Time is fleeting. I’m not sure how it has already been over three years since I retired from teaching. Realizations about the nature of time frequently occur. Like a slap to the face, they stop me cold as I run on the hamster wheel of life. I vividly recall the first time I had the child of a former student in one of my classes, received my first piece of mail with the AARP logo on the envelope, and the day I realized all of my children had grown up. Those pretty much knocked me clear off of my wheel. 

 

While aging is unavoidable, how we age is changing. Medical science has clearly shown that the worst thing a person can do as they age is to become sedentary. Some people have chosen to work longer, even if only part-time, to remain vital and maintain their connection with the community. In retirement, finding a reason to get up in the morning, get moving, and feel productive is essential; playing pickleball, volunteering in the community, caring for older parents or grandchildren, walking, gardening, etc. Anything to stay active and engaged. 

 

As for me, being involved entails watching my grandson, being on City Council, doing projects around the house and at our camp on the Tygart River, being a referee for track & field, working with the Derek Hotsinpiller Fallen Stars 5K, etc. While it may, at first, sound contrary to my goal, I have recently added one new activity to my list. Last fall, I joined the Bridgeport Senior Citizens Satellite group. 

 

If the first picture that comes to mind is older people in rocking chairs, half of them asleep and the rest not watching the black & white television turned on in the corner with Leave it to Beaver reruns, you couldn’t be more mistaken. The Bridgeport Senior Citizens Satellite group is filled with active, intelligent, and fascinating people supporting each other and serving the community of Bridgeport and the surrounding area.

 

Our members come from many different backgrounds and careers. There are former doctors, attorneys, teachers, city councilors, homemakers, accountants, business people, etc. Members volunteer in the schools, for city elections, at Sheppard’s Corner, at the Bridgeport Public Library, in their home churches, and with many other organizations. A small group of members is weaving mats out of plastic shopping bags to create sleeping mats for the homeless. One member is a recently published author. She writes articles for our local newspaper as well. While I may be one of the younger members, there is no shortage of energy and activity in the group.

 

A combined business meeting and luncheon are held in the Benedum Civic Center monthly, typically on the third Monday. These meetings feature a solid agenda that includes a devotion, acknowledgment of birthdays and anniversaries, previous meeting minutes, treasurer’s report, information from the Harrison County Senior Center, various old and new business items, and a program. Some recent programs at the meetings include Operation Christmas Child - Samaritan’s Purse service project, a Simpson school choir performance, a presentation from Pam Hotsinpiller on Healthy Grandfamilies, attorney Julie Romain’s talk on legal matters for seniors, a visit from Bridgeport schools Prevention Resource Officer Jamie Hamrick and therapy dog Connor, among others.

 

Each meeting culminates with a luncheon for the attendees. Sometimes the meals are catered, while other times our members prepare dishes and desserts. In my short time as a member, the meals have been excellent. Attendees are charged a nominal fee for their lunch (less than I typically pay at a fast-food restaurant). The Harrison County Senior Center and our local satellite group help subsidize the remaining costs of the meals.

 

If you are retired or have achieved a certain level of maturity, you should consider joining the Bridgeport Senior Citizens Satellite. Your membership includes everything listed above. Additionally, you gain access to Harrison County Senior Center activities and programs, like participating in Tai Chi twice a week. As well as the opportunity to meet and fellowship with a fantastic group of Bridgeport and surrounding area residents with a wealth of knowledge and overwhelming hospitality. With annual dues of only ten dollars a year, you would be hard-pressed to find a better deal.

 

Why Bridgeport? In Bridgeport, activities and service projects are not just for children and teens. Networking isn’t limited to business people and professionals. Learning, socializing, and caring for each other are lifetime activities. Every member of our city should be valued. The Bridgeport Senior Citizens Satellite is just one more opportunity to advance these principles and provide a welcoming space for the people of our community.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows Bridgeport Police Prevention Resource Officer Jamie Hamrick and Therapy Dog Connor after a recent visit with the Senior Citizens Satellite group, while the second photo shows the ground on hand at a meeting at the Benedum Civic Center. Below is some of the delicious food that is served.