The Big Sandy Senior Center is doing well under the leadership of Brenda Darlington and the Board of Directors. Questions are always asked about how the center is now doing. Without trying to name every volunteer, it also requires so many volunteers. If it weren't for volunteers to donate hours of support from bookwork to cooking, maintenance issues, handling the pay table, and delivering meals, it could not function. So, it could be said the community of Big Sandy is keeping it open.

They have also received local funding and local meat. This has also allowed them to stay open because everyone knows food costs have gone up, but the lunch meal is still only $6.00.

When I am in town for lunch, I often eat there, and the homemade meals are delicious.

Every morning coffee groups do use the facility where it is the honor system to leave a dollar for the coffee.

They are trying to add activities slowly. This month they added card playing and will continue to have that as long as people show up to play cards. Every month they have a blood pressure screening. And on the 14th, Demra Ophus from First Bank was there to give a presentation on financial fraud. This was a request of the members. They have applied for a couple of grants which will allow them to purchase a new cooking station. The old grill and oven were in great need of being replaced.

Currently, the number of people eating at the center has dropped because of winter and icy conditions. It is hoped that after the roads improve, people will get out, socialize more and eat at the center. The menu is always in the paper, along with announcements. You can always call the center by 10:00 if you want to have your meal delivered. Call 406-378-

As the owner of the Mountaineer and the reporter, it is necessary to acknowledge the massive volunteer time of the current President of the Board, Brenda Darlington. She is there every day supporting the center from opening to closing. Cooking, washing dishes, making decorations, greeting people, helping with the books, and whatever else needs doing. I have never known anyone who serves as a President to work a full-time job without getting paid. Brenda needs to be acknowledged, although she would not want me to do this. What an incredible gift she has given to the community!