July 18, 2012

Annual seniors picnic enjoyed by all

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It was warm Friday at the Washington County Park at Huletts Landing, but the heat and humidity did nothing to diminish the spirit of the people who attended the Washington County senior citizens picnic.

Despite temperatures that reached into the high 80s and a dewpoint in the 60s, approximately 200 senior citizens from just about every corner of the county enjoyed games, food, and conversation.

The picnic, which is held annually and rotates between different locations in the county, is sponsored by the Washington County Office for the Aging and provides local seniors with an opportunity to get reacquainted with peers and enjoy some recreation.

“This is a nice thing for the people to do,” said Sally Walker, president of the Queen Ann Seniors from Fort Ann. “All the clubs in Washington County are invited.”

“It’s a good chance to see everyone,” said Ann Waite, president of the Washington County Council of Seniors.

Seniors began arriving, some by the bus load, around 10 a.m. and were greeted by staff and volunteers from the Washington County Office for the Aging and the Department of Social Services.

As they waited for the festivities to begin, seniors enjoyed coffee and doughnuts as they caught with up old friends and listened to the acoustic melodies of South Glens Falls resident Max McDonnell. There were also informational booths set up by local health care providers where attendees could learn more about the services offered.

At 11 a.m. folks began breaking off into teams as they played several games, including ring toss, the hula hoop throw, bean bag toss, and several other low-impact games.

“The games are a lot of fun, they really enjoy them,” said Elaine Thurber, an employee with the office for the aging. “They get their teams together leading up to the event each year.”

When the dust had settled, the Macadamia Nuts from Fort Ann had emerged as this year’s winners, bringing home a ribbon and 12 months of bragging rights.

After the games had concluded, most of the seniors returned to the shade of the picnic pavilion, some sitting with their respective clubs and a few who mingled with friends from neighboring towns.

A short time later, Washington County’s political leaders, including Granville Supervisor Matt Hicks, Whitehall Supervisor George Armstrong, Hampton Supervisor Dave O’ Brien, Dresden Supervisor Robert Banks, White Creek Supervisor Bob Shay, and chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Jon Rymph, served food to everyone in attendance.

The meal, which was prepared by staff from the Great Meadow Correctional facility, consisted of pulled pork, coleslaw, baked beans, corn muffins, tea, and dessert.

Volunteers said numbers were down slightly from last year, but the event was a success nonetheless.

“You’re really missing out if you don’t join a club and come out,” said Ann Murray.