Senior center is creating its first yearbook

The Glen Cove Senior Center is embarking on a heartwarming project to create its first-ever senior yearbook, spearheaded by Christine Rice, Executive Director of the center and Activities Coordinator Eric Shuman, both of whom are passionate about fostering a strong sense of community among the center’s members. With the help of volunteer professional photographer Roni Chastain and Assistant to the Activities Coordinator, Nancy Cirasola, the yearbook is set to be a cherished keepsake for the center’s members. So far, over 150 senior portraits have been captured by Chastain.
“Our mission is to bring as much joy and love as we can to people in their senior years,” Rice said. “This isn’t just a yearbook—it’s a reflection of the family we’ve built here at the center. We want it to be something that brings a smile to their faces when they look back at it.”
The yearbook will feature professional photographs of the members, complete with personal quotes, allowing each person to leave a unique imprint. Additionally, it will include group photos of various clubs, special classes, and the adult day program, showing off the diverse activities available at the center.
Shuman explained that the yearbook will also feature some fun superlatives.
“We’re going to have categories like ‘Best Dancer’ and ‘Best Smile,’ and we’ll let the seniors vote on them,” he said. “It’s a fun way to engage everyone and make them feel involved.”

The yearbook, which will serve as a keepsake, also aims to reach beyond the senior center’s current membership. Rice explained she hopes it will help attract new members who may be hesitant about joining.
“We want to show the community how warm and welcoming this place is,” she said. “There are so many activities, and we’re always happy to welcome seniors from all over Nassau County. This yearbook will give them a glimpse of that.”
To help cover the cost of printing the yearbook, Rice and Shuman are actively seeking sponsors from the community. In return for their support, sponsors will have their logos printed in the yearbook, either on the back cover or inside pages.
The team hopes to have the yearbook ready by early 2025, with a special event planned for its release.
“We’ll have a big celebration where everyone can sign each other’s books, just like a traditional school yearbook,” Rice said. “It’s something we’ve never done before, and it’s already bringing so much excitement and joy to our members.”