Huntington Seniors Celebrate National Pie Day

Did you know pies were invented by the Romans? And that a la mode means topped with a scoop of ice cream and funeral-pie filling is made of raisins?

If you said yes, then you would have done very well on the pie trivia quiz that was part of the Town of Huntington's Senior Center's National Pie Day celebration held Friday, January 22. (National Pie Day is officially January 23, not to be confused with National Pi Day, which celebrates the symbol for the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter or 3.14, and is, of course, celebrated on March 14.)

But back to the pie. Created by the American Pie Council, an Illinois based trade association, National Pie Day is simply dedicated to the celebration of pie. "As part of our American heritage, this day is a perfect opportunity to pass on the love and enjoyment of pie eating and pie making to future generations," said Linda Hoskins, executive director of the council.

The council sees pies as a constant in American life with families passing recipes, pie plates and other utensils down through the generation.

Huntington seniors certainly seemed as though they agreed. Following a roast beef lunch, more than 200 people lined up for slices of lemon meringue, apple crumb and pumpkin. And, yes, a la mode was an option.

Following the pie-eating, seniors and staff worked off the extra calories by dancing to music provided by Rich Rossi who revved up the crowd with a rousing version of Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline.

The Town of Huntington Senior Center, located at 423 Park Avenue in Huntington is currently run by Executive Director Susan Harty. It has been offering services to town residents for the past 32 years.  There are a variety of free programs offered on a daily basis, including computers classes, tap dancing classes, tai-chi, yoga, massage, art classes, lectures, multicultural groups, speakers and discounted lunches for those 60 years and over. For more information call 351-3253.