Summer at the Peter Bressi Northeast Senior Center flew by in a whirlwind of heat, rain and non-stop fun-filled activities for all.  Music, burgers and ice cream were just a few ways our members were able to cope with the crazy weather.  Starting with a Memorial Day Open House and ending with a Labor Day barbecue, smiles and full bellies were in abundance.

The Senior Center Carnival was held in June.  The midway attractions included peanuts, cotton candy, and water ice, as well as some exciting carnival games.  The yard was decorated with carnival themed signs and tablecloths, and a photo booth captured many memories.  The only things missing were a big top and an elephant.

Next up was the 4th of July, which was sadly interrupted by Mother Nature. The soaring temperature kept the members inside, but the Center’s dedicated grill master made sure that no one missed hamburgers and hot dogs.  The Center was beautifully decorated with patriotic banners, bunting and bao. Everyone received a red, white and blue bucket hat and a keychain shaped like the map of USA.  The indoor celebration was an overwhelming success.

During the months of June and July, the Center participated in the USDA Supplemental Food Nutrition Program and distributed vouchers to approximately 350 people, both Center members and non-members alike.  Each eligible person received $20 in vouchers for purchasing fruit and produce.

When the dog days of summer took over in August, the members enjoyed performances by professionally trained performers in the arts.  World-renowned classical pianist Timur Mustakimov took the audience on a trip through Italy, Austria, and Germany with his performance of classical pieces by various composers.

His fingers seemed to float above the keyboard producing magical and memorable notes.  Dr. Mustakimov has won multiple international competition awards and even spent time as a professor in the Piano Performance Program at Temple University.

That same day the members were also entertained by comedian Perry Kurtz, who has been a working comedian his entire career.

He was the opening act for Robin Williams and many other comedians, and he has appeared on the Tonight Show numerous times.  He most recently appeared on The Late Show with James Corden.  He performed a hilarious stand-up set that was targeted specifically for an older-adult audience, and everyone’s spirits were lifted.

A Labor Day barbecue unofficially ended the summer season.

Now the Center is looking ahead, and Fall is a typically busy season.  Plans are underway for the Center’s 34th Anniversary special celebration on October 19th, to be followed by a Halloween Party later in the month.

The theme of the Anniversary Celebration is “Miracle on 34th Street and will celebrate the “miracle” the Center has been in the lives of its members.  Everyone is invited to attend, and non-members are welcome.  The cost to attend is $2 for members, non-members and guests.   So grab your spouse, or a friend or a neighbor, who are also older adults and take part in this milestone.  There will be great food, great music, prizes, and games.  The winner of the Center’s slogan contest will be announced and other surprises as well.  This is a “can’t miss” event even if you have never stepped one foot inside the Center!

And then comes fun and excitement in preparation for Thanksgiving, Christmas and the arrival of 2019.  Whew! As we celebrate our Anniversary we want to extend a warm welcome to our LGBT Community. What better way than to celebrate National Coming Out Day. This Nationwide day of Recognition is as much for those coming out as LGBT for the first time as it is for the families and friends of those who support them. Join us that Day October 11 for a Special Day of Recognition and tips on how to support friends or loved ones on their journey to living their authentic lives.

The Center is looking for new members to enjoy the Center and all it has to offer, so please consider visiting the Center on October 19th and perhaps becoming a new member.  Membership is $10 per person, but the new membership drive offers two for the price of one.  Bring this article and your spouse, significant other, friend or neighbor with you and pay $5 each.  What a small price to pay for so much in return.

The Peter Bressi Northeast Senior Center is located at 4744 Frankford Avenue and can be reached at 215-831-2926 with any questions you may have. Also, like us on Facebook at Peter Bressi Northeast Senior Center. We would be delighted to meet and greet you at the Center.