Hodges Senior Center hosts ‘Summer Soiree’

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HODGES — Tropical accessories, decorated flip-flops and a lemonade bar were part of the Hodges Senior Center’s “Senior Summer Soiree,” which drew 21 attendees, one of the center’s largest turnouts.

“They put on tropical glasses and just turned into kids again,” said Alison Armstrong. “They were acting so silly. It was the best thing to see.”

Armstrong previously served as the center’s full-time director but now works part time, handling reports and helping plan special events. Angela Chamblee manages daily operations.

Participants decorated flip-flops to display on the center’s bulletin board under the theme “Flipflopping into Summer.” The craft also served as an entry for prize giveaways.

A create-your-own lemonade bar offered flavors including watermelon, strawberry and tropical blends with citrus slices, berries and drink umbrellas. Armstrong said attendees tried different combinations and kept returning for more.

Marshal Nichols embraces the spirit of summer by donning a lei.
CONTRIBUTED/ALISON ARMSTRONG

Games at the event included cornhole, a cup toss and a flamingothemed ring toss in straw bales. Susan Coke with Alabama Hospice of the Shoals attended to share volunteer opportunities in Franklin County and to provide small giveaways.

For Armstrong, the highlight was seeing participants enjoy themselves.

“There was one guy who never smiles, and I have a picture of him grinning,” she said. “Miss Zelma always tells me how much she loves the fellowship when we have something big like this.”

Participants also received printed calendars decorated with beach-themed art to color. Armstrong encourages attendees to mark what they liked, cross out what they didn’t, and to return the finished calendar for a small prize when they pick up August’s schedule.

Upcoming events include a picnic at Elliott Branch. The center’s July calendar includes bingo, dominoes, crafts, including custom bookmarks and paper flowers, cornhole, lawn darts, bowling, a “Fun & Fit” dance exercise day, and live music with The Jetts on July 29. August activities include the Island Olympics and a spa day.

“It’s really just about making them happy,” Armstrong said. “That’s always the goal.”