We've Got The County Covered

Rose Noel hangs up her apron at Harlem Senior Center

Rose Noel, complete with party hat, is pictured holding up a "Grizz" steering wheel cover she received as a gift during her recent retirement party at the Harlem Senior Center.

Rose began cooking at the center two days a week in 2012, then cooked six days a week for a 10 month stretch and has filled in for periods when a permanent cook was sought.

For three years she cooked the Harlem Center's Sunday Community Meal, a once-a-month event open to the community.

She vowed to retire when she turned 75 (Monday, the 21st was her birthday). She was feted recently with a retirement party during the last Community Meal.

A surprise birthday party followed, with serious as well as gag gifts. Speaking of cooking, Harlem Senior Center's Director, Katy Noel, said, "We thank Rose for all the times she 'saved our bacon' to keep the Center open and we wish her a wonderful retirement she can enjoy without looming cooking requirements."

About 50 diners attended the last Community Meal to celebrate with Rose and enjoy a grilled steak with all the trimmings.