Marshall County Residents

... a REAL Story

“We come for the company,” Latham and Jim said almost in unison when asked why they come to the REAL Services Nutrition Center in Culver.  Then Latham added with a sly smile, “Someone to talk to and talk about.”  He had just finished working on a puzzle and was now enjoying a cup of coffee with his friend, Jim.

These fascinating men are long-time residents of Marshall County.  They were both in the Navy, though Latham was never on a ship.  They enjoy each other’s company over a nutritious meal, swapping stories, remembering the past, and enjoying the present.

Latham taught history and government in the Culver Public Schools for 38 years.  But just ask any of his former students… he was no ordinary teacher.   He taught by singing songs in the classroom!  He had songs and rhymes for all the events in history, forever impressing the facts on the minds and memories of his students.

Jim was at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked.  His ship had been at sea for 37 days and pulled into the harbor just 2½ hours before the Japanese arrived.  He explained that at first they didn’t think it was real.  Music continued to play over the speakers during the attack and it took several minutes to understand it was not a drill.

While Jim has two daughters who live in Culver, Latham has no family in the area.  The interaction and friendships they encounter at the Nutrition Center keep them active, engaged, and mentally stimulated.  They also enjoy a nutritious meal five days a week.

The nutrition program of REAL Services was started in 1973 to provide low cost nutritious meals five days a week along with recreational activities and informational programs for individuals over 60 years old. The program promotes better health among older adults through improved nutrition, and the pleasure derived from group participation.

Jim and Latham are just two of the people who enjoy a meal, companionship, and activities offered by the Nutrition Center in Culver.  There are also REAL Services Nutrition Centers located in Argos, Bourbon, Bremen, LaPaz, and Plymouth.