Rhonda Costa-Landers/Nevada Appeal Silver Springs Senior Center Director Bobbie Hughes, left, thanks Frank Fiorica (in hat) and his wife, Lois, for attending the open house of the Silver Springs Senior and Community Center on Tuesday.
The Silver Springs community celebrated Tuesday as they opened the doors to a new senior and community center.
"I didn't sleep real well last night," said Silver Springs Senior Center Director Bobbie Hughes, her voice shaky with emotion. "It's overwhelming."
Also overwhelming was the number of people who attended the open house. Hughes was expecting about 150 people. When she checked on attendance, 249 had signed in for lunch.
"I have to thank my staff and volunteers," Hughes added. "I've been kinda cranky through this move, and they've put in a ton of hours and I appreciate them."
Lyon county Human Services Director Edrie Lavoie said the center became a priority because of the need in the community.
"This building is a testament to those dedicated to bring it to the community, and who have supported this project in a variety of ways," Lavoie said.
Members of all Lyon County senior centers were on hand for the open house. Helping serve the noon meal was Debby Stevens, director of the Fernley Senior Center, and her staff.
Stevens also delivered Meals on Wheels to the clients of Silver Springs while the center was moving operations.
"We do look out for each other," Stevens said.
The 10,000 square-foot center has a four-station computer room, exercise room, large dining room, card and pool room - with all rooms having windows - and several smaller meeting rooms and offices. Cost of the center is $2.166 million.
Marguerite Blochowika and her husband, Ervin, have lived in Silver Springs for 26 years. "Margie B" is a former site manager and was enjoying lunch with Ervin and several others.
"We practically built the first one," Margie B said while enjoying her lunch of steak, shrimp, asparagus, baked potato and roll. "We been members a long time. This is a wonderful lunch."
After eating, many of the guests wandered from room to room, looking at artwork and handmade quilts decorating the walls, and visiting with friends.
"We've been here 29 years now," said Frank Fiorica, 86, of Silver Springs. He and his wife, Lois, 80, told Hughes they enjoyed their lunch and praised her for her dedication and hard work in taking care of the seniors.
"We think this center and Bobbie, are great," Frank added.
"My hope is the seniors laugh a lot, enjoy each other's company here and go home with a good feeling in their heart," Hughes said.
The Silver Springs Senior and Community Center is at 2945 Fort Churchill Road. The former senior center has been demolished.
For information on services and programs, call 577-5014.
• Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.