By Michael Daniels Journal Staff Writer
It’ that time of year, it is the Christmas season. For many this is the happiest time of the year, especially for the children. There are parades, parties, candy, fruit cakes, Christmas cookies, and of course surprise gifts.
It’ that time of year, it is the Christmas season. For many this is the happiest time of the year, especially for the children. There are parades, parties, candy, fruit cakes, Christmas cookies, and of course surprise gifts.
However, for some of the senior population it could be a different story, if they are all alone. Lonesomeness and isolation are two of the major problems some seniors face, especially if they have outlived their family, friends, and peers. During the holiday season their loneliness can get even worse.
Enter the Area Office on Aging of N/W Ohio, who does their best, 24/7, to always think of the senior population they serve and does their best to meet their ever-changing needs.
Even though the year 2024 seemed as if it flew right on by, looking back on it, it was a long year and everyone was waiting and ready for AOoA’s last big bash, the Holiday Celebration. Finally, it was time for this much anticipated event for area seniors. “When tickets went on sale, they sold out in less than a week” said Justin Moor, AOoA President/CEO, “Today we have over 700 people here for this end of the year party.”
As people arrived, even before the celebration got started, you could feel the excitement in the air. Spirits were high, everyone was happy, and extremely glad to be there. Groups of friends came together, children brought their parents, while others came and met people they did not know and made some new friends. All and all it was a very festive upbeat crowd from the start!
The program started with the MC , TV13 News Anchor/Reporter, Sashem Brey. She was followed by a welcome from AOoA President/CEO, Justin Moor, and a greeting from the new and first Chairwoman of the AOoA Board of Directors, the Rev. Barbie Harrison.
After these introductions, a delicious three course lunch was served. t It was after lunch that the party really took off to the fantastic, dance, music of the Bluewater Kings Band whose horn section was outstanding. They had a big sound, and they performed all the familiar hit songs of the day.
The seniors could not resist, they were out of their seats and on their feet dancing. At the height of the party everyone in the room experienced a fever pitch moment when the band performed Montell Jordan’s non-generational mega hit song, ‘This is How We Do It’. Seniors young and old packed the dance floor all doing the same line dance, clapping their hands and singing the refrain in unison. As if it was choreographed ahead of time. It was a true moment of pure joy and celebration, and it was like being on Soul Train live and in person!
As the Holiday Celebration ended, Sashem Brey announced the three winners of a free raffle and invited attendees to take home the holiday theme centerpiece from their tables.
Mr. Brey said, “This was my first time emcee this event, and I was incredibly impressed. This was one of the kindest and most enthusiastic groups I have ever worked with. It was my pleasure to be here today, and I hope they invite me back.”
Rev. Barbie Harrison explained, “Today was our annual Christmas party sponsored by AOoA for all the seniors in the communities we provide services to. It is a time to celebrate the birth of the Messiah and have fun as we see so many old friends and are making new ones. AOoA is a wonderful organization that provides almost any service that our seniors may need. I am also excited to be the first woman to be the Chairperson of the AOoA Board of Directors and I look forward to the work we will do in the future.”
In conclusion, AOoA President/CEO, Justin Moor added, “Today’s event was a fantastic way to kick-start the holiday season and bring people together with others they may not have seen for a long time. It was a chance to meet new friends, socialize, enjoy a delicious meal, dance, and celebrate the Christmas holiday season together. This is what AOoA is all about, helping our seniors ‘Live Better and Longer!’
