SOUTHWICK-Weekdays at the Southwick Senior Center, a variety of challenging and interactive activities and classes await town residents, according to Cindy Sullivan, director.
Cindy Sullivan, director of the Southwick Council on Aging, chats with Donna Sharron and Barbara Mickna during lunch on Wednesday.
“Our senior center is very active every day,” said Sullivan, during Wednesday’s luncheon.
Sullivan is always interacting with those who stop in and lunch time is a perfect chance to seek input on program ideas. This month, seniors have been treated to a “prom,” hosted by the Southwick High School National Honor Society, a talent show featuring singers, dancers, and poetry readers, and a cooking class, led by culinary arts students and head chefs from Westfield Technical Academy.
On Wednesday, while Donna Sharron and Barbara Mickna were enjoying a Highland Valley Elder Services meal of pork with peas and potatoes, Sullivan checked in with them to see if they were enjoying their meal.
“The pork is delicious,” said Sharron.
While meals are provided weekdays starting at 11:30 a.m., town residents must sign up 24 hours prior to ensure a meal will be waiting for them. Averages of 25 to 35 seniors attend the luncheon each weekday, according to Sullivan.
“We also offer home-delivered meals by calling our dining center,” said Sullivan.
As summer quickly approaches, Sullivan wants to remind town residents about the fourth annual Luau planned July 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“The cost of this great activity will be $5,” said Sullivan, adding, “We will have prizes for the best luau outfit and for winning games.”
Sullivan noted that in addition to food, snacks and “lots of fun,” there will also be “surprise entertainment” at the Luau.
“You will not want to miss this event,” she said.
Since space is limited, town seniors are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible by calling the senior center.
Sullivan added that classes currently offered range from quilting and needlework, Tai-Chi, yoga, Zumba and aerobics, to bingo, painting, poker, line dancing, and a writer’s workshop. In addition, swimming aerobics is offered on Fridays at Wilderness Experience. For fees and more details on all classes, call the office at (413) 569-5498.
For the latest happenings which include special programming throughout the month, pick up The Messenger at the Council on Aging office, 454 College Highway, or visit www.southwickma.org/COA.
