FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 3, 2005

Contact:
Jennifer Jones, Media Relations Specialist
(512) 477-4488 x117
jenniferj@hacanet.org

SENIOR MAYFEST OFFERS RESOURCES TO AUSTIN’S OLDER AMERICANS
Celebrating Older Americans Month

WHAT: It's time to dust off the saddle shoes, poodle skirts and letter jackets. The 13th annual Senior Mayfest has arrived, and this year's theme commemorates the "Fabulous '50s." Sponsored by the Housing Authority of the City of Austin and a host of community partners, Senior Mayfest is open to all senior residents of the Austin community in celebration of May being Older Americans Month.

"We host it so our seniors can socialize as well as receive new resources that they may not get through traditional means," said Sheila Lowe, director of resident initiatives.

The festivities will feature retro '50s music, a hula hoop and "best dressed" contest and free food.

There will be 21 vendors and agencies on-site to provide a range of services such as blood pressure and glucose testing as well as safety information. This year, vision screening will also be available. Each year a Resource Guide, which offers a plethora of helpful numbers, nutritional facts and tips on avoiding telemarketing scams, is published and handed out to seniors in the community.

WHEN: Friday, May 6, 11:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center, 2608 Gonzales St.

WHAT ELSE: The Housing Authority of the City of Austin is a public agency whose business is to ensure that safe, quality affordable housing opportunities exist for families of low income; break the poverty cycle by serving as a catalyst for our residents to become economically self-sufficient; create meaningful partnerships to maximize available community resources for our residents; and efficiently and effectively meet federal, state and local mandates. For more information, please visit www.hacanet.org.