Deptford’s mayor and council will honor township seniors 85 and up at the Over 85 Birthday Luncheon at Auletto Caterers on Thursday, Sept. 14.
Originally for seniors 90 or older, the free event was started by the township 10 years ago as both a celebration of and tribute to senior residents.
“We came up with the idea and wanted to celebrate the folks who are 85 (years) and older in Deptford,” said Mayor Paul Medany. “Many of these people have spent most of their lives in Deptford and have seen it grow from farms into what it is now. We’ve had World War II veterans come out in the past, and are hoping for some this year as well.”
The township will mail out invitations to eligible seniors, but attendance is not mandatory and invitees can bring other family members. About 300 people are expected for the event, according to Medany, which will take place from noon to 3 p.m.
The tribute is also a birthday celebration for the seniors, who will also receive gifts from the township.
Auletto Caterers has hosted many township events over the years, for both municipal officials and the school district. With its view of Almonesson Lake, the venue has been a Deptford staple for more than seven decades.
“They’re just very helpful and are great people,” Medany noted. “They accommodate us so well.”
He and council members are also expected to attend the luncheon, which will focus in part on senior residents who have given back to Deptford.
The township also hosts monthly senior Bingo and an annual senior summer fun day.
“It provides people with an opportunity to give back to seniors and what they’ve done for the community,” Medany explained of the luncheon. “It is a celebration of these people and a celebration of life in Deptford Township.”
