Popular Fourth of July BBQ Provides Seniors a Meal and Entertainment

South Pasadena’s Senior Center had its annual Fourth of July BBQ Wednesday, featuring a live performance from musicians Bob Lipson and Saul H. Jacobs.

The BBQ offered senior citizens a meal and entertainment for only $2.25, along with an ice cream social that was sponsored by health care partners.

Food served at the BBQ consisted of hamburgers, beans, watermelon and potato salad and ice cream. Performers Bob Lipson and Saul H. Jacobs presented  “Penniless Immigrant to American Icon,” a piece that was based on the musical journey of composer Irving Berlin. Lipson and Jacobs performance consisted of a sing along accompanied by piano, followed by a story on the background of the songs.

Many seniors participated in the sing along and according to manager Liliana Torres, who has been running the annual BBQs for 25 years, this year’s turnout was great but unfortunately there was not enough food to accommodate everyone.

“We have people that didn’t make reservations that are trying to get in but were running out of food and I’m feeling bad,” said Torres.

Torres further explained that the BBQ is a great way for seniors to eat a home cooked meal, especially because, according to Torres, most seniors aren’t cooking at home enough.

“Most of our seniors don’t barbecue anymore, they live alone,” said Torres. “So that is why there is such a huge turnout. I think it helps them remember why we celebrate this event, maybe it brings that memory back of when they had their families and it gives them a home cooked meal, something traditional.”

City council member and volunteer, Bob Joe, said that one of the reasons why the Senior Center continues to plan events like these is to celebrate the seniors in the community.

“We do this to recognize our senior citizens and to recognize the birth of our country and to celebrate,” said Joe. “ We kicked it off by reading the inauguration prayer by George Washington and we always offer traditional Fourth of July food.”

Senior citizen Ida May Schweimer, along with other seniors, were excited to hear Lipson and Jacobs perform. Schweimer, however, did say that though she was excited for their performances she wished she knew that the event requires reservations in advance.

“I called and it (the seats) were all taken,” said Schweimer.” They should get it before, months before it starts. “

According to senior citizen Marto, who has been attending the Fourth of July BBQ’s for years, this event is a bargain for seniors and it is a great opportunity regardless of what, according to Marto, others have said. 

“We like it but some people complain because it is not a five star restaurant but we like it here,” said Marto. “If you don’t like it, don’t come.”