Prince Hall was flush in a sea of red sweaters, shirts, and hats, with sides of dancing and healthy helpings of socializing as hundreds of seniors from Dorchester and Mattapan gathered last Friday (Feb. 16) in Grove Hall for the first annual Senior Citizen Valentine’s Day Luncheon.

Sponsored by District 4 Councillor Brian Worrell and state Rep. Chris Worrell, who wanted to give back and thought the best way was to break bread with neighbors, the afternoon started with coach bus transportation from the neighborhood to Prince Hall. There, senior residents caught up with one another and visited with friends from other parts of Dorchester and Mattapan while others took to the dance floor for the “Electric Slide” and other dancing. A catered lunch capped off the afternoon.

State Rep. Chris Worrell and Pearlita Gilpin.

The best dancers in the house let loose prior to the luncheon. Here, Bettye Hicks, 88, and Dennis Jackson, 76, don’t hold back on their moves.

Seniors from the Mildred Avenue Seniors made a big showing at the event in noting that this month is their one-year anniversary of forming. B-3 Community Service Officer Derek Green, Beatrice Owens, Barbara Crichlow, Lynnette Sumpter, B-3 Community Service Officer Allan Kelley, and Officer William Chen.

From Four Corners, Rev. Birlton Levy with Jeannette Adams and Francine Lindo.

The Talbot-Bernard Seniors were in attendance, with Pamela Couddle, Maria Rodrigues, and Enogilma Rodrigues.

Gloria Lynch, left, and Drucilla Hill.

Willa Mae Burnett, Valerie Worrell, and Lorraine Williams enjoyed the lunch.

Linda Seams, Ann Luster, and Adrian Shepherd, of the Reggie Lewis Sensational Seniors.

Rev. Francisco Tolentino, of the Apostolic Church of God for all People, said the blessing prior to lunch being served.