GROUP BEFRIENDS SENIOR CENTER.

Byline: BETTIE RENCORET

LANCASTER - Friends of the Center, an organization formed to improve the Antelope Valley Senior Center, is proud of its role in the senior community.

Incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1983, Friends has worked over the years to supplement the programs and services provided by Los Angeles County.

While the center was adequately equipped at its dedication May 25, 1978, normal wear and tear created special needs.

County cutbacks have cost the center. Subsidies for rejuvenation, replacement and upgrades were slow, if at all, in coming, even though the demand for services continued to increase.

That's where Friends has come in. The group raises funds.

Unlike the Antelope Valley Committee on Aging, headed by Harriett Davis, which manages the nutrition programs at all three valley centers, the group is more concerned with equipment and appliances as well as building accessories.

Small to begin with, the membership is now at 301, President Larry Skaggs said.

Touting the motto he coined for the group, ``We didn't make the center, but we sure do make it better,'' he hopes to have 350 signed up next year.

The success of the Friends' fund-raising can be seen in many things such as a new sound system microphone, 40 new tables, almost 200 new chairs, a TV and lounge chairs for the TV rooms, a computer for the office, landscaping and many small items, including a 100-cup coffeepot.

Money is raised through membership fees, bazaars, raffles and individual donations as well as from donations of senior groups who use the center.

Contributions have come from the Carefree Dance Club, the bridge players and several others.

Outside groups, such as the United Way, and individuals, have also contributed.

``We accept donations from anybody and raise funds any other way we can,'' Skaggs said. ``We just want to make things better. Have you seen the new covers on the pool tables? Our pool players donate too.''

The other two senior centers do not have a Friends' group.

Palmdale is working on it.

``We have an advisory board now but I'm trying to get a full scale Friends of the Center organization going,'' said Eric Jensen, recreation coordinator in Palmdale.

At the Antelope Valley Center, 777 West Jackman St., Skaggs named the Friends officers: Jeanne Ryan, vice president; Sue Cook, treasurer; Lora Miller, corresponding secretary; and Clara Zeese, recording secretary.

Other board members are Betty Hochner, Frank Brisby, Helen Doyle, Kay Beck, Agnes Brum, J.A Christofferson, Robert Feiman, Alberta Rudesill, Lee L. Watkins, and Martha Hunsberger.

``These people really work,'' Skaggs said, outlining some coming events.

He issued a invitation to all seniors to attend a potluck dinner at the center at 5 p.m. Aug. 12.

``Those wishing to attend should sign up at the reception desk so that we can have some idea of how many to plan for. Everyone is asked to bring a salad, dessert or vegetable dish for six. We'll supply the rest,'' he said.

Professional folklorico musicians will entertain at the event.

Traditionally the Friends plan a prefair program on ``Senior Day at the Fair.'' These activities are usually held on the fairgrounds but due to changes in the Antelope Valley Fair schedule, this year they will take place in air-conditioned comfort inside the center, Thursday, Aug. 29.

Beginning at 2:30 p.m., the entertainment lineup will include Daisy's Desert Drifters led by Clyde Faulkner; the Boogie Woogie Mamas; and Bill ``The Great Billoni'' Hines, a professional magician.

To be raffled off during the afternoon is a hot air balloon ride for two. Tickets, at $3 each or two for $5, are available at the center on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Information on any of the Antelope Valley Senior Center functions can be obtained by calling 726-4400. In Palmdale the number is 267-0051.

LANCASTER - Groups continuing to meet during the summer months at the Antelope Valley Senior Center include the quilting class, the 49ers Dance Club, Carefree Dance Club, the stamp club, crafts, bridge and pinochle groups, Retired Teachers and the Computer Users group.

Dark for the summer are: Chapter 549, American Association of Retired Persons; National Association of Retired Federal Employees; Arthritis self-help; and Silver Lining Express.

LANCASTER - Menus for the week at the senior life nutrition sites in Lancaster, Palmdale and Pearblossom have been announced. All meals include bread, margarine and coffee, tea or milk.

Monday: Chili egg puff, mashed potatoes, green beans, carrot/pineapple salad, peaches.

Tuesday: Barbecued chicken, macaroni salad, cabbage, tossed salad, apple crisp.

Wednesday: Lemon herbed fish, rice pilaf, mixed vegetables, marinated beets, orange.

Thursday: Hamburger on bun, all the fixings, corn, cauliflower, cheesecake.

Friday: Pinto beans and ham, carrots, fiesta coleslaw, cornbread, pudding.

MEMO: This column is devoted to activities and news of interest to all senior citizens. Those with any information pertaining to that age group are invited to contact Bettie Rencoret, 943-2998 or leave messages at the Antelope Valley Bureau Daily News offices, 267-5740.