We were thrilled to be invited to the new Newtown Senior Center to interview a dedicated member of the community and Café Manager, Lee DeLucia. It was a pleasure to talk with Lee to learn about her life and what keeps her active and engaged in her community.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I decided to move from New Rochelle, New York to Newtown, Connecticut 20 years ago when most of my family bought homes in Connecticut. I had worked for Tork Inc. a company in Mount Vernon, New York which had 400 employees. I started out as a Payroll Supervisor and later moved up to the title of Human Resource Specialist. I come from a very large family of 7 sisters and 2 brothers. My daughter Linda lives in Milford, CT. I also have many nieces and nephews living in Connecticut as well. My greatest accomplishment was becoming a mother. My daughter Linda changed my life for the better. She is my best friend.
How did you get involved with the Newtown Senior Center?
I happened to be joining the Newtown Senior Center when I was asked to be Café Manager. That was 16 years ago and along the way, I have made many friends at the center. I serve lunch at the center every Monday through Thursday. I work for C.W. Resources where I was trained and certified for my job here at the center. And now the center has this beautiful new location attached to the Newtown Community Center, with so many wonderful resources right here.
What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?
I enjoying dancing, concerts, movies and attending seminars – and always learning new things! Swimming is also one of my favorite things to do. I plan on spending a lot of time in the pool at the new Newtown Community Center. I go to the library every 2 weeks because I love to read and take part in events there. I also volunteer at the Congregation Church’s thrift shop. I love traveling, especially to the Caribbean. St. Bart’s is my favorite island to visit. And Italy is my other favorite travel destination – I’ve been there four times! I enjoy many different types of musical groups. I just saw the Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin tribute at “Flagpole Radio Cafe” at Edmond Town Hall. It was terrific and I highly recommend these performances.
What is your favorite part about living in Western Connecticut?
Everyone is so friendly. Newtown provides a sense of community where everyone treats people equally. Even though it is beautiful country living, everything is also very convenient, there is nothing you cannot get to. It is a beautiful place to live. When I am driving up the hill on Route 25 and see the flag, I know I am home!
“Always stay busy! Find something that interests you and stick with it. You will never be bored.”
Do you have a favorite memory or activity from the Newtown Senior Center?
I enjoy the Mother’s Day Tea Party and the Christmas Party. I look forward to them every year. I have made many great friends over the years at the senior center. The social events are wonderful.
Do you have any advice to other seniors to “age well”?
Always stay busy! Do not be a couch potato. Find something that interests you and stick with it. If somebody asks me to do something I never say no. I only have myself to blame if I am bored.
