Seniors Get Valentine's Visit from Friends Academy Students

The hosted a tea party in the spirit of Valentine's Day Thursday, showcasing musical acts by some young members of Friends Academy.

"It warms our hearts," said the center's executive director, Carol Waldman, as a girl with a particularly strong voice belted out a few classics to a room full of seniors and classmates.

"We're thrilled to develop this relationship," she said. "Our seniors get a certain energy from the kids - a love of life. Hopefully, we get to teach a little bit and learn a little bit."

Performances ranged from singing to flute to violin, and represented a range of ability, but you might not know the difference to look at any of the faces in the audience. Each 13- and 14-year-old who approached the microphone was met with gentle smiles and attentive gazes for all in attendance.

Barbara Stango, 71, of Glen Cove said it's nice to experience young people up close in such a way.

"It counteracts all the bad news you hear about young people," she said. "We never knew how talented these kids could be."

Shirley Pinckney, 71, of Glen Cove thought the party was just as worthwile for the students.

"I think it's good for them to see what happens here," she said as other center members talked and laughed all around her, exchanging word of each other's families and recent activities. "Most young adults have a different concept of seniors. They think we just sit around."

Jacie O'Brien, 14, of Brookville, said the visit helps fill a void left since her great-grandmother became sick.

"You get to meet everyone, see how they're doing. I feel they have so much knowledge. They know what to expect," she said.

The center's program director, Lucy Van Horn, said these types are events are important to keeping the mood light in the place.

"When you have young people come in, you have an electricity in the air," she said. "Elderly people have a quality with young children. Patience and affection. They gravitate to them."