Music, food and friends highlight senior lunch, which Franklin Park hopes to revive in 2026

Good music, good food and good friends were all part of the Oct. 14 senior luncheon in Franklin Park, which hadn’t been held since pre-pandemic days.

A group of about 20 seniors from Franklin Park and the surrounding municipalities enjoyed music from Pittsburgh singer and musician Megan Paullet before lunch and dessert were served at the Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center.

“We were hoping they would bring a lot more of these events here so we don’t have to travel,” said Francine Taggert, 69, who was there with her husband, Charles, 72.

The Franklin Park couple usually drives to different communities for activities so they were happy to have something in their own backyard.

Dennis O’Keefe, mayor of Franklin Park, said the borough held senior gatherings before the pandemic, and he is glad the borough is looking to bring them back.

“It’s just nice to have some place to go, with entertainment, some food and meet new people,” O’Keefe said.

Surveys were handed out to lunch attendees on what they would like to see at the senior luncheons. Suggestions included educational workshops, exercise or wellness programs, arts, crafts and hobby classes, local day trips or group outings, and volunteer or community service opportunities.

Guests also were asked what they would be willing to spend per event. The luncheon that day was $5, which included entertainment, a hot meal and dessert.

Zach Brower, who has been parks and recreation director at Franklin Park since 2018, said they are trying to gauge what the community wants while keeping it budget-friendly.

“We do have an older population that lives here. This is our hope, to get more engagement,” he said.

While this was the only senior luncheon event being held in 2025, Brower hopes it returns in the new year when the borough has a good idea of what the community wants.

“We’re always open to suggestions,” he said.

Seniors from Franklin Park’s surrounding communities also are welcome.

“This is great,” said Carol Costa, a former Franklin Park resident who lives in Marshall.

“I don’t get out to meet new people. This is really enjoyable, wonderful,” said Costa, 84.

Laura Czekaj, who serves on Franklin Park Council, said they really want to find out what seniors want and to “make this a valuable experience for everyone.”

O’Keefe is optimistic about the event returning in the new year.

“Spread the word,” he said.

To stay connected with the borough, visit franklinparkborough.us and follow it on Facebook.