Well for me at least! I attended a great workshop on Generations, April 21 entitled, Generations: What Do They Bring To Cook County? I enjoyed it immensely comparing different characteristics about the generations over the years.
Next in my month of Generations was a “Birthday to Remember – 90 Years.” Nona Smith turned 90 years old on Friday, April 24. She wanted no fuss as most of us do.
But we could not let her special day pass without celebrating. Since she was not going to be at the center on her actual birthday day, we celebrated it on Thursday. Dorothy Oltean, who has become our official cake baker, brought a cake and the celebrating began.
On Saturday, April 25, her family and the community came to wish her a “Happy 90th” at an Open House at the Senior Center.
Anyone who knows Nona, knows that she comes from a large family, all but one great-grandson was there. It truly was her special day, and she deserves every memory that day held.
The Cook County Senior Center is a great place for celebrations. Nona Smith’s family hosted a 90th birthday celebration for her at the center on Saturday, April 25. Nona, a senior center volunteer, is pictured here in a four-generation photo at the party. (L-R, standing) Nona’s great-grandson Tim Styles, daughter Sally Suck, grandson Tim Suck and Nona, seated.
Generations of veterans
During my generations month, a common characteristic that kept coming to mind about each generation, was a war event and that made me think of all our veterans who served in the wars over the years and still do.
My dad served in World War II; my father-in-law in the Korean War; my son during Iraq; and now my grown children have friends that have or are serving our country.
When we think of veterans, often we think about veterans from wars way back when, and not always currently. These current veterans have the same needs and support system as the past generations of veterans did.
On Wednesday, May 20 at 5 p.m. veterans and their families are invited to join us for a “Meet and Greet” gathering with fellow veterans and Veteran Services Officers Pat Strand with Cook County; Clarence “Clinker” Everson of Grand Portage; Vince Sando of Lake County; and Trent Dilks from the St. Cloud VA. They will be here to meet, answer questions about veterans benefits, discuss medical transportation options and help with any other questions, concerns or support needed.
Snacks and beverages will be provided. Contact Bev at 218-387-2660 to register for this free event.
Visit the center for dining and more
Everyone is invited to have lunch at the Senior Center on Monday through Friday at noon. Call 218- 387-2660 by 9:30 a.m. on the day you would like to dine in. Dinners include: entree, vegetable and/or fruit, bread or bun, dessert and milk. The cost varies depending on your age, but is $4 for those 60 and over.
There is gentle exercise at the center on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 – 11 a.m.
There is no charge. Wear comfortable clothing. Everyone is welcome!
Blood pressure checkups are free and blood sugar checkups are available for $3 on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Nurses from Sawtooth Mountain Clinic are here to check your blood pressure and blood sugar. No appointment necessary.
On the third Tuesday of each month, Footcare is offered by the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic, from 9 – 11 a.m. First come, first served. No appointment necessary. The cost is $10. Bring a towel and basin to soak your feet in.
Trips to Grand Portage and beyond
The Grand Portage Express heads to the Grand Portage Lodge & Casino twice monthly.
Participants receive $5 extra play on their Players Club Card and $5 off a dinner entrée in the dining room.
Each month other funfilled trips are planned. Some in the past have been to Trail Center, Duluth for events and shopping and fall color tours. If you have an idea for a trip or questions about trips, contact Bev.
Stop by the Senior Center to learn more or call 218-387-2660.
Cook County has a vibrant and active community of elders. Each week we will offer Senior News to highlight our senior citizens. This week’s submission is about the Cook County Senior Center, courtesy of Director Bev Green.
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