Board members of the Gerald Senior Center Corporation spent Monday morning getting things ready for the center’s reopening. After being closed for nearly six years, a grand opening is planned for Thursday, Dec. 18. Hometown Market is providing a fried chicken dinner for the celebration. The meal will be served at noon for a suggested donation of $5 per person. This includes the meal, dessert and drink.

The center will be located in Calvary New Life Church, 140 W. Industrial Ave. Patrons are asked to use the west side door (to the right as you face the front of the church). Doors will open at 10 a.m. to allow patrons to enjoy Bingo and other activities before the meal. A free drawing for three Christmas wreaths will be held.

During the celebration, patrons will have the opportunity to tell the board what they would like to see available at the center.

Anyone who would like a meal is asked to call and leave a message at 573-764-2256.

The board of directors will also serve as the volunteers for the first meal. In January, they hope to have others volunteer to help with the serving, clean up and running of the center. To volunteer for a few hours per month, please call the number shown.

Beginning the first week of January, the board plans to have the center open each Tuesday and Thursday for a noon meal.