Seniors Celebrate Holiday Season

By Nancy K. Crevier

“Oh the weather outside is frightful, But the fire is so delightful, And since we’ve no place to go, Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”

It was not snow, but members of the Newtown Senior Center, and their friends and family were warm and snug from the chilly rain Thursday, December 11, as they gathered at The Waterview in Monroe for the Annual Newtown Senior Center Holiday Party. As gray and glum as were the skies outside, the spirits inside were buoyant and bright.

The party kicked off at 11:30 am with a festive champagne toast by Senior Center director Marilyn Place. Then there was plenty of time for friends to chat, and to gravitate from one linen-covered table to the next, spreading cheer to friends old and new.

Kevin Parker attended the holiday party for the first time ever, as a guest of his parents, and declared the event, “Phenomenal.”

 Southbury residents Marion Newson and Dave Heyworth said that they often attend Newtown Senior Center events, and enjoyed the beautiful party at The Waterview. Ms Newson’s son, Keith Bauersfeld, accompanied her this year.

“This is so much fun. We like kidding around,” said Florence DePalma, as she lifted a glass of cheer to her tablemates.

First selectman Joe Borst, chairman Ed Rees of the Commission on Aging, vice chairman Tom Dwyer, and director of Newtown social services Ann Piccini were among the local luminaries lighting the scene at Thursday’s luncheon, as well.

While guests chattered and laughed, a few guests glided across the polished ballroom floor to the lively holiday tunes of The Country Gentlemen, Denny Cots, Larry Ace, and Greg Chasse. The popular local band offered selections for listening, dancing, or for a little toe tapping while lined up at the buffet.

The special meal started off with a complimentary glass of wine, warm rolls, and a mixed greens salad. An option of grilled swordfish with tomato relish, penne a la vodka, filet mignon with roasted red potatoes, or chicken piccata with rice pilaf was offered at the buffet. The holiday luncheon was topped off by a dessert of chocolate cups filled with raspberry mousse.

Then it was time to relax, enjoy the music, and spend a bit more time celebrating the season.

“It’s nice to see everybody having a good time,” said Ms Place, as she surveyed the full dining room. “They always have a lot of fun here.”