Nearly 150 Tucker County Seniors gather at Hendricks Park Monday to enjoy the annual Tucker County Senior Picnic.
By Beth Christian
Broschart
The Parsons Advocate
HENDRICKS – Hendrick’s Park lit up with activity Monday as Tucker County Seniors gathered for their annual picnic. Linda Bonner said entertainment was provided by Jim and Polly Whetzell of Kingwood.
“The Tucker County Veterans presented the colors and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance,” Bonner said. “Polly sang God Bless the USA and Pastor Greg Smith, from the First Baptist Church in Parsons gave our invocation and we introduced the Senior Center Board Members. Senator Bob Williams, D-Taylor, was here to talk to folks about any concerns they had.”
Bonner said the 10 Senior Citizens Olympians were introduced.
“They brought back three trophies and 65 medals,” Bonner said. “The Tucker County Veterans sold chances on a quilt and Lauren Payne told about the Lime Rock Reunion and the Blackwater Canyon. After Jim and Polly Whetzell finish, Jim and Meg Budding will be singing.”
Following lunch, Bonner said the group would look to win door prizes and play in a corn hole tournament.
Tucker County Senior Center Director Roxanne Tuesing said Monday’s picnic included seniors from all over the county as well as kids in the summer feeding program.
“We didn’t have meals at the summer feeding sites today, so we invited students to come and eat with us,” Tuesing said. “Most of the door prizes are from World Vision and there are some really nice items. Some came from Mountaineer Food Bank. I shop all year long looking for things for the picnic.”
Tuesing said they did something different for the picnic this year.
“Ray cooked the chicken – normally we just have hamburgers and hot dogs,” Tuesing said. “Everyone brought a covered dish to share and we have nearly 150 people here today.”
She said the seniors swim in the Green Hole after the picnic lunch.
Williams said he enjoyed talking with the seniors gathered for the event.
“We have a beautiful day and a great turnout,” Williams said. “We are having a good time. I had a number of folks talk to me about issues they are concerned about. We attend these events so we can hear what is on folks’ minds.”
Senior Mary Mullenax said she always enjoys the senior picnic.
“I wish more people would come, but it is a challenge for folks who live on the mountain because of transportation,” Mullenax said.
Tucker County Commission President Lowell Moore said the picnic offers folks the opportunity to get together.
“I think the Senior Center does a great service for our seniors,” Moore said. “I don’t think the public understands the great services Roxanne Tuesing and the Senior Center provide for the county. They do a great job.”