The Franklin County Silver Games, in their 19th year, are scheduled to occur September 7th through the 11th, 2008.  Seniors 50 years old and older who live either inside or beyond the County are encouraged to participate.  Benefits include friendly competitions, good exercise, gaining new friends, and the earning of attractive medallions by first, second and third place winners in all events.  Spectators are invited and welcomed to all events.

The theme this year, “Save our Planet”, focuses on the need for all participants to think about not only our basic human needs, but also about caring for the Living Earth.

Every year the Silver Games introduce a new event; this time it is to be “Pickle Ball”.  This involves hitting a whiffle-type ball back and forth over a low net with a wooden paddle, sort of like non-strenuous tennis.  This event is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, September 10th, at East Central College.  As in previous years, the various events and competitions are to take place at different venues within Franklin County; these are all explained in detail on the official application form.  The basic entrance fee of $8.00 will be the same as last year, but there will be additional fees for participating in golf, miniature golf, bowling, plus the team sport of power volleyball.

All seniors who participated last year are to be mailed an official 2008 application well in advance of the August 8th registration deadline.  Application forms will also be available at all Franklin County recreation venues, senior citizen centers, banks and libraries.

Each year the Franklin County Silver Games benefit from generous sponsors, but new ones are always welcomed.  So are volunteers who help in conducting the varied events and serving at the closing day banquet, which this year will be at the Union City Park on September 11th.  This year’s voluntary Silver Games committee is chaired by Becki Gillihan, Vice-chair is Cherri Burke, Secretary is Betty Goodwin, and Treasurer is Tanya Bommarito.

For additional information, contact:

Union Parks & Recreation: 636-583-8471
Washington Parks & Recreation: 636-390-1080
St. Clair Parks & Recreation: 636-629-0333
The Mid East Area Agency on Aging: 636-583-8919