'Friday Night Lights' program invites seniors to prep games

The City of Menifee and Paloma Valley High School are partnering in an intergenerational program that will bring senior citizens together with local youth to watch some football.

The program is called "Friday Night Lights". Menifee seniors (55 and over) are invited to attend one or all of four Paloma Valley home football games this fall to support the team and interact with the younger crowd. The dates are Aug. 30, Sept. 6, Sept. 13 and Oct. 25.

Pre-registration is required by the Wednesday before each game. Registration is free and can be completed online, by phone or in person at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 29996 Evans Road in Menifee. Participants will receive a complimentary T-shirt and food will be provided at the game.

There will be two pick-up locations to transport seniors to the games: Kay Ceniceros Senior Center and the Sun City Civic Association, 26850 Sun City Blvd.

"Intergenerational programming is something the city is passionate about with the unique age diversity in Menifee," said Community Services Director Jonathan Nicks. "Bringing together different generations benefits the entire community and creates a strong sense of unity. We plan on this being the launching point for many future intergenerational programs for our residents."

Paloma Valley Athletic Director Ryan Sharp said he is reserving a special seating section for the seniors, but they will be right in the midst of the crowd for each game.

Sponsors and partners for the program include Paloma Valley High School, Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, Faith Lutheran Church and Menifee Crime Watch. For more information, or if your organization is interested in getting involved, visit www.cityofmenifee.us/seniorservices or contact the Kay Ceniceros Community Center 951-672-9673.