By Wei Chen

Copyright hoodline

Over in Lutz, approximately a dozen seniors came together under a clouded sky to partake in an annual tradition steeped in strategy and camaraderie — a chess tournament marking the beginning of National Senior Center Month. The Hillsborough County Aging Services has rolled out the first of their championship series, which will also include billiards and Rummikub, ensuring that these events bring together the county’s sharp-minded players.

The ambiance at the Lutz Senior Center was anything but subdued, even with the grey blanket overhead. Energy buzzed through the venue as soon as Art Matteau, an 89-year-old chess aficionado and volunteer, laid out the tournament’s ground rules. Before the games commenced, attendees enjoyed a performance by the center’s very own cheer squad, adding a dose of pep to the morning’s proceedings. The squad, consisting of senior ladies clad in matching gear, brought the room to life with their spirited chants, according to Hillsborough County’s newsroom.

Matteau, who’s been playing chess since a young age and only increased his dedication to the game in his 60s, vouches for its mental benefits. “Playing chess and staying social gets the mind going,” he told Hillsborough County’s newsroom. Matteau’s endorsement of the game underscores the greater value these events hold for seniors, blending mental exercise with social engagement.

Yet, the fun doesn’t stop with the chess pieces getting tucked away. Throughout September, the senior centers will host additional tournaments, leading up to a vibrant Hispanic Heritage Celebration set for the 25th at The Regent. Planned festivities will showcase music, dancing, and various aspects of Latin culture in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month. This event, expecting over 400 active adults age 50 and older, is a testament to the cultural tapestry weaved into the Hillsborough County community.

Hillsborough County Aging Services remains a cornerstone for senior engagement throughout the year, with an array of programs taking place across seven senior centers and 14 dining and activity locales. It’s a place where friendships are formed and existing bonds strengthen over shared experiences, proving that for the seniors of Lutz and beyond, every roll of the dice, every chess move, and every social gathering is a celebration of enduring vitality and communal spirit.