The Elders have been busy the last weeks of June. Twenty Elders completed their requirements and were able to attend the 16th annual “Honor our Elders” Wisdom Steps Conference at Grand Casino, Hinckley June 14-16, 2016.
We had a wonderful time participating with “Fun Night” events, workshops on eye and dental health, sacred tobacco, healing touch, screenings provided by the Shakopee Medical Mobile Unit, a 10-minute play – Wiiwaaganag in both English and Ojibwe, a traditional dress fashion show and prizes for the most creative “Fun Hats.”
We enjoyed visiting with new and old friends, the beautiful Swamp Nation Drum Group, flag ceremony, comedian, Jeff Gerbino and keynote speaker Mille Lacs Chief Executive Melanie Benjamin. Prizes were won and of course there was shopping and eating. We returned home tired but looking forward to next year’s conference.
Marjori Bottila was here June 17-18 providing Medicare/health insurance and long term care options counseling. She also had a table at the annual Grand Portage Wellness Fair Saturday. The fair was well attended with approximately 25 programs participating.
Grand Portage Elders enjoyed a trip to the Wisdom Steps Conference. Above: Some attendees were (L-R, seated) Doris Blank, Polly James. (L-R, back) Carol Hackett, Patty Winchell-Dahl, Ellen Olson, Ellie Altman, Bob and Eddie Hertzberg. Left: Ellen Olson and Eddie Hertzberg at the Wisdom Steps traditional clothing fashion show. Eddie is wearing the ribbon shirt she purchased from Ellen about 30 years ago.
Everyone who attends comes away with new and useful information on the many services and programs offered throughout the county, Grand Portage and Indian country. We enjoyed a delicious meal and some were lucky winners at the table raffles. The ENP raffled off two huge fruit baskets. The lucky winners were Howard Likiaksa and Nickolas Swenson. Congratulations!
As we move into summer the Elders are looking forward to the 4th of July celebration, the Mentorship Program Student Fundraiser on July 10, Elder Advisory Board meeting to plan Rendezvous Days fundraising, berry picking in Canada, Ruby’s Pantry and the annual Credit Union Picnic with the ENP and the band Portage on July 20.
Need information about these activities and ENP programs? Please call the Grand Portage ENP at 475- 2655 or 2002. Have a wonderful July!
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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