More than 100 guests and family members surprised Benny and Connie Hillard of East Hickory with a 50th wedding anniversary party on Aug. 15, 2009- 50 years to the day of their marriage. Benny and Connie are the parents of Denise and Mike Mudryk, and LuAnn and Barry Gold, both of Pittsburgh, Ben and Cathy Hillard, of Tionesta, and Jim and Theresa Hillard of Kelletville. They enjoy their 11 grandchildren and two great- grandchildren every day.
Connie can be found at the movie theater, reading or doing crosswords. Benny enjoys hunting, fishing - is a HUGE Steelers fan, and he can also be found on his back porch watching nature and competing with Connie for the daily crossword.