Special to The News

It was an exciting summer for local seniors as the Recreation Center launched its new Senior Activities Program under new Senior Activities Coordinator, Aaron Thompson. In preparation for the first social on May 7, rec center staff began changing the look and layout of the Multi-Purpose Room. Adding comfortable couches, lift-assist recliners and a fresh coat of paint transformed the space into a cozy, communal lounge that now sees use from patrons of all ages. Senior socials at this casual environment with coffee and snacks quickly became a hub for games of cribbage and dominoes while sharing stories of Skagway over the decades. 

In addition to socials, the senior program also planned excursions around town and eventually up the Klondike Highway’s pass. Participants were able to get out and about to experience more of what the place they call home has to offer. Thanks to the community’s generous discounts and donations, the seniors learned about aeroponic farming over lunch at the Skagway Brewing Company, rode to the summit on the White Pass & Yukon Route train, floated down the Skagway River with Skagway Float Tours, enjoyed a performance of the Day’s of 98 Show featuring their own senior coordinator on the piano, tore through Dyea on a dog sled with Alaska X, dined in style at the Holland America Skagway Inn’s Chilkoot dining room, and explored the pass on a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge with Klondike Tours. Thanks to all of these businesses for supporting senior programs this summer and to The Skagway News for giving us the opportunity to share this story with its readership free of charge!

The Recreation Center has also started hosting events for seniors at the facility with an end of summer lawn party on August 16 and plans for smores and scary stories by the campfire on Oct. 19. Senior programs offered 10 outings this summer and engaged a total of 103 participants. A special thanks to Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines for generously donating to Skagway’s seniors and allowing us to offer our socials and excursions without requiring the purchase of a membership.