Holley school district welcomes senior citizens for annual breakfast

Photos by Kristina Gabalski: The Holley Elementary School cafeteria was filled this morning for the annual Senior Citizens Breakfast. Each table featured an arrangement of fresh flowers and place mats made by students.

By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 4 May 2017 at 9:10 pm

Each participant is presented with a long-stemmed rose as they depart the breakfast

HOLLEY – About 125 people gathered in the cafeteria at Holley Elementary School this morning for the annual Senior Citizens Breakfast. The popular event includes a hot breakfast, coffee, and entertainment from both high school and elementary students.

“It honors our senior citizens,” Holley School Superintendent Robert D’Angelo said. “We have been doing this for years. It’s our way to say ‘thank you’ to them for what they have done for us and for what they continue to do.”

D’Angelo said May is Senior Citizens Appreciation Month. He noted the breakfast provides a way for senior citizens to interact with students and to learn about opportunities available to them – such as the Family Fitness room.

“We want them to know these schools are their schools,” D’Angelo said of the Holley Central School District campus. “It warms my heart to do something so positive.”

Members of the High School Student Council volunteer each year to help with decorating, serving the food, keeping coffee cups full, and cleaning up.

“It’s a great way for the community to come together,” senior Bailey Schubmehl said.

Eleventh grader Tiffany Rowley said the breakfast provides a way to, “Welcome senior citizens into the school community.”

For residents who need it, transportation to the breakfast is also provided.

11th Grader Tiffany Rowley and 12th grader Bailey Schubmehl volunteered to help with the breakfast. They say the event is enjoyable both for senior citizens and students.