Preston County Senior Citizens hoping for new building

KINGWOOD — A possible new building, the annual Spring Fling, and Off Our Rocker Yard Sale make the coming two months busy ones for the Preston County Senior Citizens.
A funding request made through U.S. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va. could result in a new senior center in Kingwood, according to Director Tina Turner.
Turner said the request for $950,000 was submitted to the Community Project Funding Program, and if approved, would go toward purchasing a new building for the Senior Center. There would be 25 percent in matching funds required.
The Community Project Funding Program provides grants for community and economic development projects throughout the state.
Turner said she would like to purchase a 5,200-square-foot concrete building located next to the USDA. The building, located behind Auto Zone, is completely finished on the outside, and the inside layout is to be determined by the purchaser.
“We’ll keep our current building and the kitchen upstairs. The building will be for senior care,” she said. “The new center will be where activities happen, wellness and house the congregation area for seniors.”
Turner said Preston County Seniors will also be celebrating its 50th anniversary during the Spring Fling at the Newburg Event Center beginning at 9 a.m. May 23, with lunch at 11:30 a.m. The event was previously held at the Civic Center in Kingwood.
“The Classics from Pittsburgh will be providing music, and we’ll be having indoor and outdoor events like corn hole, rock painting and croquet,” she said. “We’ll be having barbecue and anyone wishing to do so can bring a covered dish.”
Everyone ages 60 or older is invited to attend. If transportation is needed, call 304-329-0837. The last day to sign up for transportation will be Wednesday.
Turner said the third-annual Off Our Rocker Yard Sale will be June 6-7 at the Buckwheat Express Garage.
She said donations can be dropped off at the garage from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Proceeds supports the Silver Santa program that provides presents to seniors who would otherwise not get a gift. Turner said last year more than 100 seniors benefited from the program.