LETTER TO THE EDITOR, Reita Isaacs, Liberal

Just sitting here at the Senior Citizens Center staring at our designated puzzle table, which is now empty except for the 1,000- piece multiple-bird one Gerald sneaked in and finished this morning. Beautiful thing to admire until we either move it aside or box it back up.

I still think my 1,000-piece octopus puzzle is the most vibrant and beautiful of all; not bragging, of course.

Things are just not as active as they’ve been over years, such as: road trips out of town, dinner-movies here, early morning exercises with video, a place where you could come early in the morning (8 a.m.) and find something to do if you choose to stay until closing, knowing you were comfortable and safe. Just having another human around to visit and interact with accomplished more than a case full of medications.

Coffee and rolls on Friday morning, bingo that afternoon, a dance first Friday night of the month, bridge for a couple groups, games in afternoon for those who choose (if there are enough), art class on Thursday morning, and Bible study on Tuesday morning.

Lack of funds has shortened the staff as well as regular hours available (am just advised this is changing), but our fabulous cook seasons the food and serves enough to make sure you’re full and a little extra for later, our seamstress doubles as receptionist and other small duties as needed and last-but-not least is our Shannon. This man is the definition of the term “invaluable.” He’s the first one to arrive and the last to leave. He sets up the rooms for every activity and then takes it down and stores it where it belongs, helps deliver Meals on Wheels, is janitor for the entire establishment and our own private IT person. No matter what is needed or whenever anyone needs help, he’s there. If he doesn’t know the answer, he researches until he finds the answer. Need help, “call Shannon.” Need help on your home device — call Shannon, and if it’s during center hours and he can be spared, he will be there.

We’ve gone through four directors since I’ve been going there, and guess who is still there? I don’t know what his salary is, but I guarantee it isn’t near enough.

Thank you Shannon for all you do for others while asking for nothing in return.

See you next time.