This Week in Clarkstown

When I was first hired in Parks & Recreation 20 years ago, I remember meeting with our senior citizens and telling them how important they were to me. I promised that I would treat them the same way I would want someone to treat my grandparents. Now, many years later, as Superintendent of Parks & Recreation in Clarkstown, that commitment remains just as strong. Today, I say that I will treat our seniors the way I would want someone to treat my parents.

Socialization plays a vital role in the well-being of seniors, and here in Clarkstown, we are truly fortunate. Thanks to the leadership of Town Supervisor George Hoehmann and our Town Board, we are able to offer exceptional opportunities for our senior community. From outstanding facilities to diverse recreational programming, we also proudly support nine Senior Clubs throughout the town.

These clubs meet at the Congers, Pascack, and Street Community Centers, as well as St. Francis of Assisi Church and the Middlewood Senior Living Complex. Each club is welcoming and vibrant, offering not only opportunities for socialization but also luncheons, guest speakers, trips, and much more.

This past week, the Nanuet Senior Club attended a special breakfast hosted by students at Highview Elementary School. The students served and engaged with the seniors, creating a truly memorable morning. It was a meaningful intergenerational experience for everyone involved. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the students and staff of Highview Elementary School for organizing such a wonderful event, and to the Nanuet School administration, led by Dr. Lisa Brady, for fostering respect and appreciation for our senior citizens.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host another intergenerational event—our annual Senior Show—on Sunday, May 3rd at 3PM at Clarkstown South High School Auditorium. This beloved tradition, created by former Town Councilman John Maloney over 40 years ago, showcases the singing, dancing, and acting talents of Clarkstown seniors. This year’s show will also feature performances by students from Clarkstown South’s Drama and Music Departments. In addition to performing, students will assist behind the scenes with stage production, sound, and lighting. It promises to be a fantastic event, and best of all, it is free to attend. We hope to see you there!

In addition to these programs, Clarkstown seniors are eligible for a free pool pass to any of our three town pools which are located at Germonds Park, Lake Nanuet Park, and Congers Lake Memorial Park. Residents aged 60 and over can register through the Parks & Recreation Department for their pool pass. The pools open in June and remain open through Labor Day.

Another wonderful benefit for Clarkstown seniors is access to our Community Centers. These centers offer a wide range of activities, including fitness equipment, games, classes, and, of course, opportunities to socialize. The four Community Centers are the Street, Congers, Pascack, and Central Nyack Community Centers. Clarkstown residents also can obtain a Community Center ID card to enjoy these amenities at the Parks & Recreation Department. 

As comedian and actor George Burns once said, “By the time you’re 80 years old you’ve learned everything. Then, you only have to remember it.”

For more information about any of these programs, events, Community Center access, pool passes, or Senior Clubs, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 845-639-6200. Our staff is always happy to assist you.

Got an idea for the column or an event in Clarkstown you want me to mention? Shoot me an email at mveronesi@optimum.net. Have a great week!