Chickasaw Nation Dedicates Renovated Senior Center

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

COLBERT, OKLAHOMA - Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby was joined by tribal officials and many of the area's elders to dedicate the Chickasaw Nation Panola Senior Center in a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday.

To Enhance Elder Lives

The renovated Senior Center, located at 1015 Moore Street, will be available to hundreds of Chickasaw and American Indian elders who live in the area.

"Chickasaw elders are the living treasures of our tribe. We, as Chickasaw citizens, truly respect our elders and this new facility is part of our continuing efforts to enhance their lives,"

said Governor Anoatubby.

"This spacious center will provide a great place for our elders to come together to socialize, exercise, share a meal and enjoy many activities."

The 4,850 square foot structure offers patrons many amenities and includes a kitchen, craft room, dining room and a computer area.

Last year, almost 150,000 meals were served at the Chickasaw Nation Senior Centers located in 12 Oklahoma communities.

In addition to meals, the Chickasaw Nation Aging program offers arts and crafts, fundraisers, trips, health screenings and education on various issues for seniors.

In addition to the new Senior Center in Colbert, the Chickasaw Nation has senior sites in Achille, Ada, Ardmore, Connerville, Duncan, Kullihoma, Madill, Pauls Valley, Purcell, Sulphur and Tishomingo.

For more information about the Panola Senior Center and eligibility requirements, call the Chickasaw Nation Division of Aging, call 580.795.9790.

posted January 28, 2012 7:30 am est