The Hughes News: Music, Balloon Volleyball and The Great Gatsby Prom Ahead

If there was any doubt that the Hughes Senior Center knows how to have a good time, this week probably settled it!

On the latest episode of Hughes News, Bob and Debbie recapped a packed week that included karaoke, a birthday celebration, live music, classic cars and a sock hop before looking ahead to another full week of meals and activities.

And, because Bob was still recovering from the excitement of National Left Handers Day, there was also some discussion about the everyday struggles of being left-handed.

A Packed Week at the Hughes Center

The week kicked off with karaoke Monday, drawing a crowd large enough to fill the café and spill into the dining area. Debbie said singers are already getting ready for an upcoming karaoke contest.

Wednesday brought the center’s birthday dinner with Monty Luke, with approximately 115 people coming through for the celebration.

Monty’s performance even reached far beyond Lebanon. Debbie said social media posts about his appearance generated song requests from viewers in other countries, including Denmark!

Then came Thursday’s sock hop with the Boomer Brothers, who performed for more than two hours and even learned four new songs specifically for the event.

Members of the Route 66 Society brought antique cars to help complete the throwback atmosphere, while guests enjoyed dancing, punch, cookies, candy and plenty of prizes.

“We have fun and we know how to have fun,” Debbie said.

The center also announced that Mary Agan won its quilt drawing, while John and Vicky Long were named the August Angel Award recipients for their volunteer service.

What’s Happening August 24-28

Lunch is served each weekday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meals are $5 for guests 60 and older and $7 for those under 60. The center also offers a daily salad bar, soup, beverages and ice cream.

Monday, August 24

Lunch: Grilled chicken with onions and sliced mushrooms, au gratin potatoes, peas and carrots, roll and fruit.

Activities: Quilting at 9 a.m. and a pool tournament beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament already has approximately 17 entries.

The Caregivers Café will also meet Monday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The program is designed to give caregivers a break while connecting them with activities, support and helpful resources. It is open to those caring for parents, family members or grandchildren.

Tuesday, August 25

Lunch: Barbecue ribs, potato salad, corn on the cob, sliced tomatoes and fruit.

Activities: Mahjong at 9 a.m. and bingo at noon.

Interest in learning mahjong continues to grow. Debbie said 21 people attended the center’s first lesson, creating such a large turnout that future lessons may be divided into smaller groups.

Wednesday, August 26

Lunch: Ham and beans, cornbread, buttered potatoes, pickled beets and fruit.

Activities: Exercise class at 9 a.m., Bible study at 10:15 a.m. and balloon volleyball at noon.

Balloon volleyball has become another popular activity at the center, with participants taking the competition seriously enough that Bob and Debbie joked about people nearly falling out of their chairs during games.

Thursday, August 27

Lunch: Cheeseburgers and hot dogs, baked beans, potato chips and fruit.

Activities: Mahjong and exercise class at 9 a.m., Gospel Sing at 9:45 a.m. and bingo at noon.

Friday, August 28

Lunch: Beef meatloaf, potatoes and gravy, green beans, roll and fruit.

Activities: Samba at 9 a.m. and the weekly music jam at 11:45 a.m.

Musicians and singers are welcome to join the jam, and the group continues to attract new participants and instruments.

Friday night also brings another dance to the Hughes Senior Center, with Dixie Hicks providing the music beginning at 7 p.m. Doors open around 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5, with children 12 and younger admitted for $3.

The Senior Prom Is Coming

One of the center’s biggest events of the year is also getting closer!

The Third Annual Senior Prom will return in September with a Great Gatsby theme.

The free event will be held at the YMCA and will include a catered meal from Andy’s 417, music from DJ Mike, dancing, door prizes and the crowning of a prom king and queen.

Members of the Route 66 Society are also expected to bring vintage vehicles for the evening.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to contact the Hughes Senior Center or the YMCA in advance so organizers can get an accurate count for the catered meal.

And there may be another attraction.

Debbie is still trying to convince Bob to get on the dance floor! Bob remains considerably less convinced.

There’s Always Room for One More

The Hughes Senior Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 460 W. Fifth Street in Lebanon.

Whether you’re interested in lunch, music, games, exercise, dancing, volunteering or simply meeting some new people, Bob and Debbie encourage residents to stop by and see what the center has to offer.

Those interested in volunteering or learning more about activities can call the Hughes Senior Center at 417-532-3040.

Hughes News is supported by Garner Smith Insurance and Phoenix Home Care & Hospice and produced in partnership with Lebanon Now.