The Catholic Charities Senior Community Service Center at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Massapequa Park observed "I Care" Week from May 14 to 18.

On Monday, May 14, the seniors displayed their artwork for all to see on the blackboard at the center. Seniors described how they worked on each piece and what inspirations they had. Some expressed that they never thought they could paint or even draw but once they sat down with the instructor and began to work on the drawing "it just came out" and "appeared" on the paper.

Many visitors who came to observe the work were impressed by the ability of the seniors. Some seniors were even offered money for their art but stated that they could never sell it because it is a part of who they are and represents their hard work.

Some seniors, whether they used pastels, oils, water colors or other paints, created landscape scenes, most of them from looking at a picture of an already existing location. Others drew pictures of their family members and animals, such as wolves and tigers.

Seniors who displayed their artwork included Jill Casano, Doris Evensen, Rudy Schaub, Doris Schaub, Guenther Herrlich, Chester Thomas, Emma Mecca, Pina Lipari, Nellie Rios, Marie Peraino and Rose Bianca. Director Marline Evangelista also submitted two of her pieces. The art class is provided under the direction of teacher Ellen Newman.

On Tuesday, May 15, the seniors participated in "We Care for Each Other" day and appointed a king and queen for the day. The king and queen were appointed using a lottery drawing and were crowned for the day.

On Wednesday, May 16, seniors enjoyed "Movie Day" and watched some classic comedies. The day of films was a hit with the seniors and may become a weekly event. "They enjoyed the humor, which is really good for seniors," said Evangelista.

On Thursday, May 17, seniors observed "Volunteer Day" where they recognized those who take time to volunteer for the center. Each volunteer was given a certificate of appreciation, a pin from the group and a small gift to recognize their efforts.

On their final day of "I Care Week," seniors participated in "I Care for God Day" when several clergy members were welcomed into the center to answer thought provoking questions asked by the seniors.

Several clergymen came to participate in the interfaith discussion, including Father Heinlein from Our Lady of Lourdes, David Nelson, a Lutheran minister and Chief Ministry Officer for Catholic Charities, Rabbi Sherman from Temple Judea of Massapequa and Reverend Mavis Stephenson from Unity Church of Healing Light in Melville.

The Catholic Charities Senior Center is funded by the Nassau County Department of Senior Citizen Affairs, the New York State Office for the Aging and the US Administration on Aging in cooperation with Catholic Charities Diocese of Rockville Centre.

Approximately 75 percent of seniors who attend the Senior Community Service Center are residents of Farmingdale. The remaining 25 percent are from the Massapequas and other surrounding communities. For more information on the senior center, residents may call 797-5357.