Local Students Host Luau for Senior Center Patrons

Seniors showed their dance moves alongside the THS students. | Photo by Hillary Viders.

TENAFLY, N.J.—On June 5, it was “Aloha” time for 65 members of the Tenafly Senior Center, as Tenafly. High School students hosted a luau for them. 

The festive event was organized by THS student advisor and science teacher, Adam Rendell, who was assisted by THS staff and dozens of volunteers from the school’s Key Club. 

“We host a party for seniors every year with a different theme, such as ‘Hollywood’ and ‘Disco,’” Rendell said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students to serve the community and everyone has so much fun!”   

There was, indeed, plenty of fun.  The THS Wakaflacka Pella group performed Hawaiian songs as well as traditional dance music that had fun-loving old-timers up and dancing along with the students.

In sync with the Hawaiian theme, students wore straw hats, grass skirts and decorative leis.  Many guests wore Hawaiian shirts along with their leis. 

Michelle Hausch, director of the Tenafly Senior Center (front center in blue dress) had a great time with the seniors at the luau. | Photo by Hillary Viders.

The party got into high gear with a buffet of island theme food, including tasty chicken and fish dishes. For dessert, there were delicious homemade cookies and brownies that had been baked by students in THS cooking classes. 

Michelle Hausch, Tenafly Senior Center director, was delighted at the turnout for the luau. 

“We have 1,100 registered members, and 80 come to the center every day. This special event hosted by the students is always popular.”

She added, “This is a great community and our seniors are very active. We have lots of in-house activities as well as trips to Broadway shows and historic destinations, but, boy, they really love a party!”