If you are a senior citizen looking for friendly companionship, good conversation, a hot cup of coffee and maybe a game of cards, look no further than the Deer Park Senior Center.
Located in the basement of the city hall building, you’ll find a group that will welcome you with open arms. President Betsy Klundet invites all of the seniors (55 years and older) in the area to come by and join the activities and conversation.
The center is currently open from 9am to noon Monday through Friday. I sat down with these seniors and asked them what they thought was the best part of their center, and the majority quickly stated that it was the companionship.
Some of the activities enjoyed on a regular basis include:
- Bingo on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10am.
- A friendly game of pinochle can happen any time that a foursome comes together.
- There is an ongoing jigsaw puzzle challenge.
At the time, they had two rather large and detailed jigsaw puzzles going on two separate tables. Anyone may participate and there is no commitment to how long you work on the puzzle. You might just come by and put one piece in, or you might sit down and spend a couple of hours.
The members are hoping that in the future they will be able to be open for the afternoon hours as well, but as with many groups, this group needs some more people to join so that they can put together some even better activities that would benefit all of the members.
As a 60-something widower, I have come to really appreciate the times when I can be around others of a similar circumstance or age. One of the places that provides companionship and entertainment is the Senior Center in Deer Park.
There has been some confusion about the lunch provided by Meals on Wheels; this program is ongoing, but has since moved to St. Mary Presentation Catholic Church.
