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Cooper community honors local legend

By Cindy Roller

Cooper – Despite the name on the sign, it wasn't Miller time on Tuesday afternoon in Cooper. It was to celebrate Mabel time as famous milkshake maker and homemade ice cream chef Mabel Wheat was honored on her 60th anniversary of employment at Miller's Soda Fountain.

"It's a great time - all the family and friends and all the gifts I've gotten," the spry almost 90 year old said on her special day that has turned into a weeklong event. "I don't know whether I'm worth it or not but I'm really enjoying it. I really am."

The public was invited to share in the event honoring Wheat by enjoying her delightful company and tasting firsthand her sweet treats. The Miller and Wheat families along with co-workers (past and present) and customers spent Tuesday visiting and sharing refreshments.

"I'm just proud that I can still do all of this at my age," Wheat said. She will celebrate her 90 year milestone next month.

The Miller family presented her with a special musical clock.

"Oh Lord, it is the prettiest clock I've seen in my life," she said. "I don't want to carry it home. I told Marion [Miller] I was going to leave it here since it is where I spend most of my time and so my customers can enjoy it too."

So what does Ms. Mabel think about all the fame?

"I ain't a famous person! I'm just plain Mabel," she stated with a grin.

Her secret is good clean living and being sure to take vitamins and medication. Seems like appropriate advice working next door to Miller's Pharmacy for this many years.