After weeks of public service announcements in two local newspapers soliciting individuals to join a Cribbage Club at East Rockingham Senior Center, the efforts have paid off! The idea was initiated when ERSC Director Lisa Gooden read about a similar club that meets in Massanutten (just minutes from our Center), and she phoned the gentleman who coordinated that club and inquired as to whether he would be interested in assisting with a pilot program at ERSC. He obliged and said there would be no fee for his services.
On April 11, Jim Gallant of Massanutten, led a group of individuals in the rules and strategies of the game of cribbage at ERSC. Our group consisted of Jim and assistant, Liz, one individual from Harrisonburg, one individual from Mt. Crawford, one individual from Massanutten, two ERSC volunteers, three ERSC members, and the Center Director, for a total of 11. (We also had about three other ERSC members who served as onlookers and potential players.)
Mr. Gallant provided multiple decks of cards, cribbage boards, and a very thorough printed sheet outlining the rules of the game that he allowed everyone to keep. And, prior to play, he gave us examples of scoring using a chalkboard to illustrate his point.
While some had experience in playing the game, for many, it was their first time. It was agreed that we will continue the Cribbage Club the following Thursday, April 18, from 9:30 AM-11 AM and may make this a weekly occurrence!
ERSC Director Lisa Gooden was so excited as she saw two ladies in the hallway of the Center shortly after 9 AM and asked them, “Are you looking for the Cribbage Club?” The ladies answered in the affirmative, and Lisa’s response was a resounding, “YES…with fists thrust into the air!” Lisa was a bit concerned in that no one called to inquire about the club, despite the multiple announcements and contact information. This just proves, never give up on your plan!
A special thanks to Jim Gallant for all his efforts to insure that a game that he learned to play at the mere age of seven is popular for those who are young and young at heart!
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