For many seniors, the Senior Center of South Pearl River County provides an opportunity to establish friendships, share laughter, participate in meaningful activities and share a hot meal with someone during a time in life when loneliness and a lack of activity can reign supreme.
Two months ago, Senior Center congregate meal coordinator Clisten Huber organized another enterprising venture for the seniors, the Senior Center Choir.
“There are so many people here with incredible talent,” Huber said. “We have singers and artists, people with untapped talent. I thought it would be a good outlet and a good thing for them. Quite a few of the people here sing karaoke.”
So far, the choir has nine members, Edna Creel, Susan Madare, Carolyn Simmons, Mavis E. Smith, Annette James, Rae Senseney, Geri Lisotta, Beverly Frizell and Huber.
They practice once a week and made their debut during Friday’s Christmas on the Rails Shop by Candlelight event in downtown Picayune.
“We do want to branch out to visit convalescent homes and bring the cheer to the people,” Huber said.
For James, the highlight of their first performance was when the children started singing with the group.
Smith said the group did a remarkable job, considering they only held four practices.
“I just enjoy singing,” Smith said. “I sing all over the house.”
Simmons said she never sang in public before, but always encouraged her daughters to.
“But I got old and figured I had a right to sing in public,” Simmons said. “A lot of seniors stay at home and this is a reason to get out of the house.”
James has been singing for the past three years and said she was initially nervous about doing it with the group. Previously, most of her performances had taken place in front of a steering wheel.
Senseney said at first, she didn’t know what she was getting into but loves the group now and said it’s a lot of fun.
“The choir and the senior center provide camaraderie for seniors,” Smith said. “Some have nowhere to else to go and for them, it’s a lifesaver.”
James said the center provides her a reason to get out of bed in the morning. During her visits to the center, she eats dinner and sings karaoke, which she said is a real showstopper.
For some seniors, Lisotta said, the hot meal they receive at the center may be the only one they get.
“You would be truly amazed to see what our seniors do here. We would love to put our arms out to anyone that feels like they have no one to come join us,” Huber said.
For more information about the Senior Choir, contact center staff at 601-798-9892 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Learn more about the center through Facebook at The Senior Center of South Pearl River County.