KINGSTON — Bill Withers would have been very pleased.
The words to his famous song, “Lean On Me,” were performed with even more feeling and genuineness than Withers himself could have expressed.
At the 50th anniversary event of the Kingston Active Adult Center, a group of senior citizens called the “Looney Tunes” performed the song on Wednesday.
“At times in our lives
We all experience pain
We all experience sorrow.”
Around 150 seniors attended the celebration filled with singing, dancing, laughter, and true friendship — and of course, good food.
“Lean on me
When you’re not feeling strong
And I’ll be your friend
I’ll help you carry on.”
Sen. Lisa Baker presented a Senate proclamation to the center’s director, Melody Bartusek. Congratulatory remarks were offered by Luzerne County Manager Romilda Crocamo, County Council Chair John Lombardo, Toni Mathis, director of senior care services at the Area Agency of Aging, Mary Rozelle, executive director of the Area Agency on Aging, and Luzerne County head of budget and finance, and others.
“Congratulations on 50 years,” Baker said. “Here’s to 50 more!”
Crocamo echoed Baker’s remarks and mentioned that she is currently the air hockey champion at the Hazleton Active Adult Center.
“You folks are known for having a good time here,” Crocamo said. “I hear you enjoy singing and dancing. Well, so do I!”
“You just call on me brother when you need a hand
We all need somebody to depend on
I may have a problem that you’ll comprehend
We all need somebody to rely on.”
“This is what the county does best,” Lombardo said.
Crocamo agreed, adding, “We will always support you. You all are our most important assets. You will never be forgotten.”
“Lean on me
When you’re not feeling strong
And I’ll be your friend
I’ll help you carry on.”
For it won’t be long
Till I’m gonna need somebody to depend on.”
Regular visitor Carolyn Tavella read her award-winning poem at the event.
Then the “Country Line Dancers,” led by Nancy Mentyka and Mary Dixon, did some line dancing.
And a DJ played for dancing as the celebration continued well past noon.
Damien the Magician entertained the crowd with some tricks, keeping the room filled with smiles.
Melody Bartusek, Director, and Mary Lou Kocher, assistant director, kept the program running smoothly.
“We always say that there ain’t no party like a Kingston AAC party,” Bartusek said.
She was absolutely right.
It was truly a great celebration.
