Staff writer
Marion Senior Center recently hired a new head cook, but senior center patrons will not have to learn a new name.
Lucille Bitner will be taking over the position from her daughter-in-law Barbara Bitner, who has worked at the center for nine years.
Lucille started this week at the center, and already has been getting the hang of things.
“I was nervous the first day but I’m fine now,” Lucille said. “Barbara did well showing me and telling me how to do things.”
For Barbara, showing Lucille around the kitchen has been a fun experience.
“She’s been doing real well and learning and I think she’s going to pick it up,” Barbara said. “I think everyone will like her.”
Lucille said she is excited about the new opportunity.
“I just love to be around people and most of them are my own age,” Lucille said. “I’ve done this before but not in this capacity.”
Lucille has worked in restaurants since she was 12 years old.
She also headed and served food for the American Red Cross in Park City, made pizzas and sub sandwiches at Hillsboro Casey’s General Store, and worked in the kitchen at St. Luke Hospital in Marion.
Barbara said she will miss cooking for and serving center patrons.
Lucille said she feels right at home at the center doing one of her favorite things.
“I love to cook,” she said. “I just love it.”