Just Friends Looks To Grow

Just Friends, a group of widows and widowers  that was founded last April, has raised $245 to help the Newtown Fund, which is currently in the midst of its annual Holiday Basket Program.

The donation was one of many activities undertaken during the past nine months by the fledgling organization, which is working hard to be a success after the resignation, for personal reasons, of its founder, Barbara Terkidsen.

“We are determined to keep the group together and keep it growing,” said Doris Meehan, secretary of Just Friends. “It’s not easy. [But] there is a commonality in our group — we’re alone and we want to meet and get to know new people in the same situation.”

John Vollmer is acting president of the group. He had been serving, with Don Lewis, as co-vice presidents. Ms Meehan and Pat Gauvain are co-secretaries. There are also two treasurers, Eadie Candida and Rosemary Zanfini. Dues are $1 per month.

The group has held many activities. There had been dinners out, a picnic at a member’s home, and a visit to the corn maze at the Paproski farm with dinner afterward. Instead of having a holiday party this year, the members of Just Friends decided go as a group to the Fireside Inn with members of the Newtown Senior Center on December 8 for a buffet dinner, music, and a raffle.

Members of Just Friends play Scrabble in the Booth Library every afternoon at 2 pm. What started with two or three members recently has included as many as eight.

Weather permitting, members play bocce in the morning, afternoon, and — during the summer — in the evening. They currently are trying to find an indoor bocce court to continue to play during the winter.

“No special talent is involved in playing bocce,” Ms Meehan said. “If you can stand up and throw a ball, you qualify.

“We continue to look for activities to do as a group,” she said. “We’re open to any suggestions, and if these suggestions are feasible, we investigate and then we’re more than willing to do it.”

Because some of the members have jobs, not everyone can participate in daytime activities. And because some don’t drive at night, it is not easy to schedule evening events, she said.

Any widows or widowers who are interested in learning more about Just Friends is invited to call Dolores Meehan at 427-7886.

“You’ve nothing to lose by coming to a meeting, and lots of nice people to meet if you do,” she said. “Think about it.”