Frances “Poot” Drouillard was recognized on his retirement at the ENP last month. He received a beautiful pair of moccasins.
The Elders had a wonderful Elder’s Pow-Wow. Chi Miigwech to the RTC, the Pow-Wow committee, cooks and everyone who made this a very wonderful time for us. It is always so great to see everyone, visit and renew old friendships. We held a successful 50/50 raffle with our own Eddie Hertzberg winning half the pot. She graciously returned her winnings to us. This money will help pay the rooms at Black Bear for those Elders attending the Wisdom Steps Conference in June.
We ended our twoday weekly “Reading with Kids” program on May 28. Those Elders who volunteered joined the students for lunch. We handed out Reading Certificates and ice cream cones to the kids. This is a rewarding program for both the kids and adults.
Reading improves but also friendships are made. I am not sure which is more important, the skills or friendships. Several Elders will continue to be volunteers once a week listening to the kids read during their summer program. The goal is to help the kids retain their improved reading skills and foster a love for reading.
Rez Rides resumed Tuesday, May 27. Elders traveled the back roads of the Rez stopping at the newly reopened Hovland Market for pie and coffee. These rides enable Elders to get out and see the changes in the community, participate in special activities during the day, socialize and just see what’s happening in the county and Canada. Next month will be a trip to the Grand Portage Museum with pie and coffee at the Lodge.
We look forward to these upcoming summer activities that will include berry picking in Canada, Rez Rides, Kids Day, Wellness Fair (volunteers needed) a presentation and discussion with EMS with those Elders who attended the Elder Abuse Conference, Two Harbors shopping trip, continued exercise programs and of course getting ready for Rendezvous Days. Whew! No excuse to be bored.
If you need information about the ENP and the programs and services provided please give Patty a call at (218) 475-2655 or 2002.
There was a good-bye cake and coffee for Francis “Poot” Drouillard at the regular monthly Grand Portage director’s meeting on May 29. Poot is retiring and was gifted a nice pair of moccasins, a card and a delicious cake. Miigwech for the terrific job you did. We hope to see you around if and when you can put down the fishing rod!
The ENP provides a luncheon meal Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for those Elders 50 years of age and older. The suggested donation now is $2 to $5 depending on your age. Prices have been raised to better reflect the cost of the meals.
Please remember to sign up by 9 a.m. for that day’s meal. You can always sign up in advance by the week or month if you prefer. All meals are cooked fresh each day so signing up helps the cooks prepare enough food for everyone. It also helps cut down on waste and our food costs.
The ENP has many opportunities to volunteer. We are always looking for interested Elders to listen to kids read, help fundraise, drive, visit with Elders and this summer, help kids sew their regalia. Anyone who can spare some time, please call Patty or Carol at 475- 2655.
Congratulations to all students who have successfully completed high school, college and master programs. Job well done! We are very proud of you all!
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