The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
SENIOR CENTER RE-OPENS TO PUBLIC
City introduces new director of department
North Ridgeville Senior Center is back open for older adults.
The North Ridgeville Office for Older Adults, located at 7327 Avon Belden Road, has fully reopened, officials said.
The senior center celebrated its re-opening with an open house Sept. 7. The event featured information about origins and history of the center and past events, a raffle and information about current programs and activities.
Newly appointed Senior Center Director Emily Lockshine
said she’s excited to connect with the community.
Lockshine was named director for Older Adult Services for the city of North Ridgeville in July.
“I’m really excited to introduce myself to everyone and celebrate being open again,” she said. “People are very happy to have a place to come to socialize and meet with friends.”
Lockshine said the center held a soft opening.
“We’ve been open on a limited basis for activities only,” she said. “But now, anyone can come in at any time during our regular hours.”
The center will be open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Longtime supporter O’Neill Healthcare provided light refreshments.
Jason Jacobs, director of Ancillary Services, said he’s excited to see the center reopen and the seniors return for services.
“Since we have a facility here in North Ridgeville it’s important for us to be a partner with the center,” he said.
“We’re always interested in supporting and getting to know our community,” Jacobs said.
“Prior to COVID, we would often volunteer and sponsor different events so we’re looking forward to getting involved again,” he said.
Lockshine says the center is available to the older adult cohort in North Ridgeville and beyond.
“You don’t have to be a North Ridgeville resident to access this center,” she said.
She says the center holds weekly programming such as lunch and bingo and will implement new activities.
“We’re going to be bringing in new activities like trivia and movies in the afternoon,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the new things as well as returning some of our favorites.”