Remembering our youth

Residents of Copper Hills House, a senior living community, along with family, friends and guests will be treated to "A Night to be Young Again" on May 16.

The social event will begin with a buffet dinner at 5 p.m. at the Foothills site, followed by dancing at 6 p.m. to music researched and on discs by members of the Yuma High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).

Lorie Hunnicutt, adviser for the senior members of the FBLA who are in on-the-job training, said, "Our students attended a conference in Phoenix and learned one of the chapters had hosted a 'prom-like' dance for senior citizens. When we came back, our seniors in the organization contacted Copper Hills and began preparations.

"We created the invitations and fliers and will be decorating the dining area for the dinner and dance.

"Our students are enjoying meeting the residents and it is a good experience for them to meet with the elderly," Hunnicutt said. "They have learned etiquette on addressing the elders and how to properly serve them."

Tamara Kay is the adviser for the younger FBLA members.

During the prom, those attending will have their photos taken by Gene Doten as they pose in a 1948 Chevrolet club coupe.

A member of the Caballeros de Yuma, Robert Maytum, said, "I'll be driving my classic car from my home to and from the event. It just won another trophy during a school benefit in Somerton."

Coleen Lovato, resident sales manager for Copper Hills, operated by Assisted Living Concepts Inc,. said, "Our reservations are closed now. Among our guests will be volunteers working with the Helping Hands in the Foothills. They have been great with our residents.

"We're reaching out more to the community, and one day a week children come to meet with the Yuma County librarians. We've had a writers group come from Arizona Western College to help teach residents to write their personal history."

Copper Hills has 48 efficieny apartments.

"We allow pets and have a variety of activities to encourage socialization, safety and proper nutrition. Our staff is on call around the clock," Lovato said.

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Pam M. Smith can be reached at psmith@yumasun.com or 539-6856.