Pat Fizer as Tin Man won the Desert Dames costume contest for a second time.

Pat Fizer as Tin Man won the Desert Dames costume contest for a second time.

The Desert Dames showed off their silly side on October 23 as they gathered at the Oasis Grille Room for their second annual costume contest luncheon.    President Jan Martin, AKA Rosie the Riveter, welcomed seventy five members and guests to the luncheon.  It was a bit hard to recognize some of the women in their clever gear!    While street clothes were acceptable attire for the day, the Dames like to have fun, and at least 30 women came in outfits ranging from Hollywood to Halloween.

Social Chair Michele Ramsay, dressed in Montana’s football jersey 16, summoned the dolled-up contestants to a costume parade around the buffet table, much to the delight of all.  Judges were watching carefully to pick their favorites for three top prizes, though everyone who strutted the “runway” was greeted with great applause from the audience.

Hands-down winner of the $50 first prize was Pat Fizer, dressed as the Tin Man.  Pat made her intricate costume from a roll of flexible reflective-clad insulation.  She was a perfect replica of the Oz character, with her silver shoes, gloves, axe, painted face and funnel hat.   This is Pat’s second win in this contest, and no doubt she will be back next year with another wicked entry!

Jan Martin shows off her Can Do spirit as she welcomes all to the Desert Dames  costume luncheon.

Jan Martin shows off her Can Do spirit as she welcomes all to the Desert Dames costume luncheon.

Identity of Salt and Pepper mystified everybody.

Identity of Salt and Pepper mystified everybody.

Wendy Lauer, dressed as a Happy Hobo Clown, grabbed second place.  Her wide painted smile stretched even wider as she stepped up to accept her $30 prize, squeaking her bicycle horn in an “ooga-ooga” victory song.   Third prize of $20 went to Valerie Thompson.  She was wearing the most outrageous witch hat in the room, and her black outfit was accented by a stethoscope draped around her neck.  Of course, she was the Witch Doctor!

The Desert Dames meet for lunch monthly, from September to June.  In addition to luncheons, members may participate in a number of club activities, from cards to singing, movie-going to hiking and more.   Their November 19 luncheon will be held at the Casablanca, and will feature a holiday fashion show.  The public is welcomed to this event, along with members.   Advance reservations and payment of $22 are required by November 14.   Payment is not accepted at the door.  For information, call Wendy Lauer at 702-346-6566.   Send checks only to Desert Dames, PO Box 3424, Mesquite NV 89024.

That Happy Hobo is none other than Wendy Lauer

That Happy Hobo is none other than Wendy Lauer

Valerie Thompson the Witch Doctor, with Teeny Bopper Brenda Agan

Valerie Thompson the Witch Doctor, with Teeny Bopper Brenda Agan