Planning Underway for New Senior Connections Facility

Senior Connections is filled with excitement as we welcome active seniors from around the region to our gathering places in Schulenburg, Weimar, and Flatonia.

Membership is free for those 55 and up residing in Fayette, Colorado, and Lavaca Counties, and we invite everyone to join us for a fun filled day of camaraderie from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. on our designated program days. Here, seniors can enjoy friendly games, delicious home-cooked meals, educational programs, monthly adventures, and, of course, the ever-popular bingo. Art classes also add a splash of creativity to our schedule.

It was announced in July that Senior Connections has purchased a property, the former Galipp’s Grocery Store, for our new facility. We know the community is wondering where we are in the process. We have officially entered the initial planning phases of our much anticipated facility project in downtown Schulenburg. While construction is still a way off, the groundwork is being laid to ensure the building will serve the community for decades to come.

Our Building Committee is actively meeting with engineers, architects, and contractors to map out the first steps. One of the most critical issues under review is site drainage, a key factor in ensuring the long term safety and functionality of the facility.

“This stage is all about preparation and collaboration,” said Bob Stanzel, building committee chair. “We’re committed to doing things the right way from the very beginning. While it may take time, these early steps are essential to creating a safe, functional, and lasting space for our community.”

Join Senior Connections on Monday, Sept. 15 in Schulenburg, 1111 Bohlmann Ave. Doors will open at 9 a.m. for a lively morning filled with dominoes, sequence, and engaging conversations over coffee served by our dedicated volunteers. At 11:15 a.m., we transition to lunch, beginning with Amanda Kridel’s delectable meatloaf, buttered potatoes, fresh salad topped with seasonal fruit, and delightful desserts crafted by our talented members. This week, we are excited to host our “cookie round-up,” where members donate homemade cookies to express appreciation for our speakers and bingo callers. After lunch, join us for our “Lunch and Learn” program featuring Angela Hahn from Fayette County Emergency Management, who will discuss necessary safety protocols. Bingo fun continues at 12:30 p.m. with Amanda from Anytime Fitness calling the game.

On Tuesday, Sept. 16, join us in Weimar at 301 West Saint Charles St. The schedule stays the same, but with a special twist. Hometown Wellness will provide vaccinations from 9:30-11 a.m. do not forget your ID and prescription insurance cards. Home cooked lunch includes chicken parmesan, garlic bread, and a fresh salad. Our “Lunch and Learn” program with Laramie Kettler from the Colorado County Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service will follow, discussing lawn and tree care during drought conditions, with plenty of time for questions and answers about your yard and gardens. Bingo with Sandy Anderson from True Care Living will round out the day.

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, join us back in Schulenburg for another day packed with games and delicious food. This time we will serve a local favorite: fried chicken from Oakridge Smokehouse, buttered potatoes, and member made desserts. We will also celebrate September birthdays at 11 a.m., so all campus birthday celebrants are invited to come for a group photo. Jeffrey Reich-Hale, now a Flatonia Medical Center staff member, will return to call bingo.

On Sept. 18, our much anticipated Victoria adventure leaves at 9 a.m. Pre-registration was required to take part, and our deadline to sign up has passed. A waitlist is available in case of cancellations. Members will enjoy Victoria Educational Gardens, the Five Points Contemporary Art Museum with art cars, and a delightful Chinese buffet, concluding with a visit to the Museum of the Coastal Bend.

On Friday, Sept. 19, registered participants will meet at 1206 Lyons Ave. from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Art for Rural Texas classrooms for Artful Friday. Choices include Martha Beckman’s seasonal crafts or Stephanie Shroyer’s mosaic class, followed by a home-cooked meal. Are you interested in our month long art programs? Contact us at (979) 743-3227, as spots are limited.

This week is just a glimpse into the dynamic activities offered at Senior Connections. We warmly welcome new members daily. For more information, visit our website at www.srconnections.org, follow us on Facebook, or email stephanie@srconnections.org or call (979) 743-3227.

Join for a week filled with laughter, learning, and lasting friendships.