Commissioners Michael McFarlane, left, and John Boyer cook in the kitchen for one of the many Senior Commission-sponsored events held in Yuba City. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - The Senior Commission continues to closely follow its 2024 plan, keeping track of transportation, facilities and local awareness.

The five-member commission met on April 1 for its monthly meeting to review this year's progress. Recently reappointed Commissioner and Chairperson Tanna Thomas said the commission's mission is advocating for seniors regarding transportation, nutrition, housing, health and safety.

"The annual plan reflects this effort and is ongoing, flexible, and open-ended, allowing the commission to respond as needed and as issues emerge," Thomas said.  

One of those issues is transportation, according to Commissioner John Boyer.

"The commission is asked to serve on a Yuba-Sutter Transit Ad Hoc Committee and provide input representing the senior perspective on transportation services in our area," Boyer said.

"Commissioners also participate in other ad hoc committees and attend various monthly meetings to keep up with what is going on in the community that may affect seniors and report back at the monthly meetings," Boyer added.

At this month's meeting, members discussed raising awareness for the Senior Center, located at 777 Ainsley Ave. Commissioner Pam Epley said many residents are unaware of the recreation programs and services available to seniors. Some of those services include Friday Night Bingo, which recently received an upgrade.

 From left, Commissioners Pam Epley, Tanna Thomas and John Boyer spread information about the Senior Commission at a community event. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

The weekly get-together serves more than just Yuba City seniors, drawing in crowds from throughout the region.

Although the commission and the Senior Center represent the city of Yuba City, Commissioner Michael McFarlane said, "we really serve the entire region, as we are the only Senior Center currently in this region." 

Other services for residents and non-residents include keeping fit with yoga and line dancing twice a week or Tai Chi once a week. If not fitness, weekly pottery, knitting, quilting and watercolor are available weekly. The Senior Commission also provides aid with technology, offering a free Smartphone Help class.

Commissioners attempt to increase visibility and advocacy by participating in local community health fairs and volunteering at events held at the Senior Center, such as Waffle Wednesdays, according to Epley. Speaking of the mid-week feast, Commissioner Tony Kurlan touts Waffle Wednesdays as a free and open community.

"The Senior Commission, staff and volunteers prepare and serve it on the last Wednesday of every month at the Senior Center," Kurlan said. “The event is a great opportunity for the commission to interact directly with our senior community."

One upcoming interaction is a spaghetti fundraiser dinner for Alzheimer’s and dementia research hosted by Prestige Senior Living and its staff from 5 to 7 p.m. May 23. Chairperson Thomas encourages everyone to support the cause and meet attending commissioners at the fundraiser dinner.

The Senior Commission meets at 9 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month at the Yuba City Senior Center. Residents of all ages are welcome to attend the meeting. For more information on the Senior Center and programs available, call 530-822-4608.

 Commissioner Tony Kurlan with his wife, Joan, at Waffle Wednesday, enjoy a weekly gathering for area seniors to eat and socialize. Photo courtesy of Yuba City