The Down East Seniors Club held its May 15 meeting at the Blind Center of North Carolina in Washington. President Charles Smith led the meeting. Jim Hackney played for the singing of “God Bless America,” which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Fritz Tanner gave the invocation, and Ed Hamrick read factoids for the date in history. Several members provided humor.

Pat Griffin introduced Matt Rauschenbach as the speaker. Rauschenbach, chief financial officer for the City of Washington, discussed the city budget, assisted by city Councilman Doug Mercer. The total budget for the year is approximately $60 million. The largest project the city is currently working on is the construction of a new police station to replace the old one which was flooded. The location will be at the corner of Second and Bridge streets. The next step is closing on the property. The second project is a new streetscape design for Main Street downtown. It will incorporate wider sidewalks and more trees.

Hamrick won the 50/50 drawing.

At the May 22 meeting, Bob Diefendorf will present Lori Melton with Hospital Pharmacy.

The Down East Seniors Club is a group of older men who meet Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Blind Center of North Carolina in Washington. They enjoy fellowship and an interesting program. Guests are welcome.