Art and Myra Lucas, lifelong residents of Manteca, were guests of honor at a party hosted by their four children and their spouses.

The event, held at Chez Shari at the Manteca Golf Course, was in celebration of the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary. They were married on July 19, 1964 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Manteca. They have lived all their life in Manteca, in the house that they built.

Celebrating with them were their four children and their spouses who hosted the party – Christine (Jerry) Higby, Michael (Jyzelle) Lucas, Jeffrey (Erika) Lucas, and Loretta Hoyer. Sharing the big day with the Lucases as well were eight of their nine grandchildren; unable to attend was grandson Georgie Higby, who is in the Air Force assigned in North Carolina.

The anniversary cake was lovingly made by their daughter, Loretta, who used the original cake top from her parents’ wedding cake.

The color theme of the celebration was gold and lavender, and was carried out through the decorations.

Art is a retired carpenter and contractor. He and his wife were very active in many school and community organizations and projects. They were involved in 4-H. Art was past president of the Manteca 4-H District.

They were very active in Little League sports with their kids. They were past presidents, and are members of the MRPS Hall, the PSFA which is another Portuguese organization, and attended many Portuguese festas. Art was a member of the Young Men’s Institute, and Myra with the Young Ladies Institute of St. Anthony of Padua Parish where they are lifelong member as well. Art also belongs to a bowling team, and is a member of the car club in Manteca called The Nuts and Bolts whose membership is comprised mostly of retired men.

These days, Art and Myra Lucas enjoy traveling in their camping trailer.