Eighty seniors from Weehawken and 160 from other local towns enjoyed a boat trip on Wednesday around the Hudson River, past the Statue of Liberty and the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid in New York City.
Apart from the scenery, passengers enjoyed a buffet style hot lunch including dessert and music. A cash bar was available with more snacks and other drinks, though the trip was an alcohol-free outing.
Carmella Facchini, from Weehawken’s senior center, was on the scene to oversee that passengers got on and off transportation vehicles safely. “This ship and this style [of trip] is the best,” said Facchini. “They love it.”
The Hudson County Office on Aging has been sponsoring the event for nearly 20 years, according to Jim Kennelly, county director of communications. He said the trips are valuable activities for seniors to socialize.
“It’s a wonderful trip. I love the Statue of Liberty. I think it’s absolutely beautiful.” – Jeanette Phillips
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Edward Benoit, executive director at the Hudson County Office on Aging, said that every year, about 2,400 tickets are distributed among agencies that provide senior services throughout the county. Ten trips take place during the months of July and August, each with capacity for 240 individuals.
Ahoy!
For senior citizens in the county, this allows them to take part in an outing and meet other like-minded individuals, at no cost. Tickets for the event are provided to those who are 65 years and older on a first come, first served basis, free of charge. However, all tickets for this year’s event have been distributed. Anyone who wasn’t able to attend this year will have to wait till next year.
Benoit said the expense of the trip comes directly from money allocated on an annual basis by the county.
Catherine Macchi is the coordinator for the event at the Hudson County office on Aging. She said her motivation to continue coordinating the trip has been seeing the smiles on passengers when they return.
“If they’re happy, I’m happy,” said Macchi.
Mom and daughter sailed together
Jeanette Phillips, 66, and her mother, Helen Gardner, 89, are lifelong residents in Weehawken. The duo has been going on the trip for the past seven out of 10 years. Phillips assists Facchini with the task of making sure that everyone gets on and off the buses and ship safely.
“It’s a wonderful trip.” said Phillips “I love the Statue of Liberty. I think it’s absolutely beautiful.”
Phillips also said that she hoped that more seniors would take advantage of the trip because it was a great opportunity for those who might not get out much. “Get out and enjoy the fresh air,” she said. “You’re in all winter long.”
Gardner agrees. She recently became a breast cancer survivor. On June 18, Gardner had invasive surgery to treat her cancer, but was able to quickly recover and take part in the senior cruise.
“She’s enjoying her life now. The doctor said she’s perfect,” said Phillips.
“Everything was a success,” said Gardner who was all smiles while waiting for the bus to arrive.
For more information on trips like these and other services available for seniors, The Hudson County Office on Aging can be reached via phone at (201) 271-4322.
Melissa Rappaport may be reached at mrappaport@hudsonreporter.com