The Grand Portage Elders have been busy. They held a successful 10th Annual Chili Cook Off & Meat Bingo.
Numbers were down a bit but everyone had a terrific time. We had 13 chilis entered. Third place went to Jon Sewald, a first-time entry. Second place went to last year’s winner Rick Johnson and the winner of the Chili Cook Off was Carol Hackett. Carol is now a three-time winner. Congratulations to the winners and a Chi Miigwech to everyone who came out to support us.
Proceeds from this fundraiser paid for the Elders’ annual Christmas shopping trip to Duluth. This year we left on a Sunday and included a tour of Glensheen Mansion. What a beautiful home with so much history. Lots of walking but everyone was a trouper and we still went shopping at Wal-Mart afterwards.
We spent the night at Black Bear Resort & Casino, enjoying a good meal, some gambling and a good night’s rest as we resumed our shopping at the mall the next day. Everyone went home tired but satisfied. A Chi Miigwech to David Deschampe for driving the bus and helping us with all our packages and to Dido Swader for the same help. You make it so much easier for us to travel. We really appreciate you both.
The Elders enjoyed a wonderful Christmas party held this year at the Community Center due to construction at the Grand Portage Lodge. We had a great time with delicious food and toe tapping music provided by Portage. The gym was exquisitely decorated by Polly James, Carol Hackett and Ed and Missy Ullman. It was beautiful. The door prizes were thoughtful and with the poinsettias will be enjoyed by all the winners. Missy and Ed did a fantastic job catering the food. We had a great time and several people suggested we hold next year’s party at the Center. Carol Hackett said great but we need a larger decorating committee!
I personally want to thank everyone who so generously shares their time and talents with the Elderly Nutrition Program throughout the year. Our success is a direct reflection of what you all give and the support the community of Grand Portage and the Tribal Council gives us. Truly you all make my job easier. On that note, I as well as the ENP staff, want to wish everyone a very Merry and Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!
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 Grand Portage Elder Nutrition Program courtesy of Patty Winchell-Dahl.
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