Senior center holds first open house

There was a steady turnout for the Senior Center open house last Thursday morning. Several people took advantage of the opening to fill out a survey, greet old friends and make new ones. Treats were provided by the organizers and puzzles and games were set out on tables. Representative Dean Takko, County Commissioner Mike Backman and Cathlamet Mayor Dale Jacobson were also on hand for the event.

"We think it's something that Cathlamet really needs," said Evie Pistone. Her husband Bob agreed.

Many of the visitors felt the same way.

"It is long over due," Elly Nowlin said.

After looking over the 40 surveys completed, a very happy Hannah Booth-Watts concluded that there was a lot of interest from local residents to make new friends and learn computer basics. Movies, potlucks and book discussions had a lot of votes, as did games and workshops on how to use smart phones and navigate a garden.

The organizers received several suggestions for art classes, hobby demonstrations, guitar lessons, ballroom dancing, aerobics, adult literacy, and mentoring. Others suggested having speakers come in to talk about travel, classical music, or religious studies. A small theatre group was yet another suggestion.

The Senior Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Organizers are looking for volunteers who are willing to be responsible for some of those hours during the week.

For more information, or to fill out a survey, contact:

--Ginger Hake, 360-751-0497 or admin@wahkiakumcommunitynetwork.org

--Hannah Booth-Watts, 360-795-0018 or booth-watts@townofcathlamet.com.