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Senior Day at the mall offers healthy fun
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Joseph Alessi Jr. demonstrated his wood carving skills and tried to recruit new members for his wood carving club during Senior Day at the Southern Park Mall Aug. 20.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell .Canfield Bob Evans Restaurant Employees, Judy Miller (left), and Kayla Nickerson were delighted to show their support during Senior Day at the Southern Park Mall Aug. 20.
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Olla Tate (left), Norma Thomas (center) and Darlene Carter were excited to participate in all the fun activities of Senior Day at the Southern Park Mall Aug. 20.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Participants enjoyed themselves as they showed off their best dance moves during Senior Day at the Southern Park Mall Aug. 20.
By EARTHA TERRELL
Senior citizens enjoyed a day of health and wellness mixed with fun-filled activities and friends during “Senior Day” at the Southern Park Mall Aug. 22.
“It’s an event that’s dedicated to our area seniors with entertainment, activities and everything that pertains to their lifestyle. It’s not a typical health fair – they could dance, they could do crafts and learn about new organizations to get involved in,” said event coordinator Debra Grim.
The program was free and offered several health screenings and information on healthy living. Some seniors were just excited to see friendly faces.
The event included health screenings, food, dancing and chance for some people to get reacquainted with old friends and have fun. Wood carver Joseph Alessi Jr., demonstrated his craft for participants while trying to recruit more members. The hobby keeps Alessi and his fellow members active and stress free.
“We meet every Thursday at the senior center and we carve wood. There are about 40 carvers and we just drink coffee and have a grand time. It’s very relaxing and they’re wonderful people and the camaraderie keeps me from having too much stress,” Alessi said.
The event also brought support from local businesses, who were able to interact with participants and develop relationships.
“We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the community, so we want to do our part and help. It was wonderful to do,” said Canfield Bob Evans General Manager Judy Miller.
The large turnout for the event was an indicator of the program’s success and Grim hopes to continue providing the service for local seniors.
“It’s one of my favorite events because it reaches so many people in the community. Everyone is in a good mood and that transcends to seniors and vendors. We’re just hoping to continue the event and we’re hoping to expand next year,” Grim said.
For more information, contact 330-792-7620 or e-mail dgevebtscoord@aol.com.