The folks who congregate regularly at the Warren Senior Center have a lot to be thankful for. And it all starts at the top with longtime Executive Director Elizabeth “Betty” Hoague.

This very charming and outgoing lady has done much to make life a wonderful and exhilarating all-around experience for the many seniors she serves each and every day.

“I have worked at the Warren Senior Center for 19 years and enjoy it immensely due to wonderful people who come to our center,” she said with a smile in a recent interview. “Many have made new friends or reconnected with old friends. Our center is a great resource for services, benefits counseling, learning new skills, fitness and wellness programs, entertainment, and most of all, a place to socialize and have fun.”

Betty Hoague’s infectious personality has rubbed off on everyone she’s come in contact with. And that includes kitchen manager Ann Primiano, whose lunchtime skills are much appreciated.

“I’ve been here since June of last year and have enjoyed every minute of it,” said Primiano, who previously served in the same capacity at the Bristol Senior Center. “People here are great. I truly enjoy doing this for these people. We’re here Monday through Friday and usually average between 20 and 22 people each day.”

“Our dining program provides nutritious meals daily for a suggested donation of $3 to those 60 years of age or older or handicapped,” she added. “In addition to a hot meal, which includes soup, entrée, dessert, milk, decaf coffee/tea. It’s a great time to get together and socialize. Many friendships have been made while sharing a meal.”

She advises to check out the lunch menu in the monthly newsletter online at www.ourseniorcenter.com or pick up a copy at the Warren Senior Center, CVS Pharmacy, Tom’s Market, Seabra Supermarket, Dudek’s Bowling Alley, Warren Town Hall, or George Hail Library.

In addition to bingo, a highly popular activity for the seniors, there are classes offered in an AARP driver safety course, chair yoga, senior fitness, Strength and Balance, help with technology, book club, and games on the computer. There are also periodic blood pressure checks, health insurance counseling, and RI Talking Books Library. Senior birthdays are also celebrated each month.

Michael J. Abbruzzi, Warren Housing Authority executive director, couldn’t be more pleased with everything that has transpired at the senior center.

“The partnership between the Town of Warren and the Warren Housing Authority to provide a safe place for seniors to congregate at Andreozzi Hall has proven to be successful for all parties involved,” he noted. “Betty Hoague does a tremendous job running the senior center and offers a diverse array of activities and services. She is a wonderful asset to the Town of Warren and should be commended for the job she does, especially during the past two difficult years.”

“We have a very vibrant and active Center and we welcome residents and non-residents of Warren,” Hoague said in conclusion. “There is so much more to us than bingo. Please stop by to visit or call 247-1930 for more information.”