I have been out of town on vacation in Kenya. Had an extraordinary trip. Although I wasn’t around for some of the ENP activities, everything carried on as planned.
The Elders with assistance from our ENP cooks baked and decorated about 40 cakes for the annual Halloween carnival. Another 15 were donated for a total of 55 cakes and cupcakes. This cakewalk event is always a very busy and successful booth during the carnival. We enjoy doing this and being able to use our artistic talents. All proceeds raised during this event are used to provide candy bags and gifts for the children at Christmas. Miigwech to everyone who came out to support this carnival.
The ENP hosted with the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe in a caregiver conference “Sharing the Care for Elders and Caregivers” on Oct. 26 at the lodge. This was the first time for this event, and although we had a small group, everyone learned something new and came away with gifts and a feeling of not being alone. Good discussions were had, and plans are in the works to establish a caregivers support group. Especially appreciated was the session provided by Leif Lunde about meth. Very eye-opening.
Cake decorators Carol Hackett, Katy Sehloff and her visiting sister, Valita Bockovich and Janet Hari.
The Elder Advisory Board held its 12th annual Chili Cook-Off and Meat Bingo on Nov. 16 at the Community Center. This year six delicious chilis were entered. Congratulations go to Mary Bowels for her first-place win. The 50/50 raffle was won by Jaye Clearwater and the last cover all game of a complete turkey dinner was won by LeeAnna Deschampe. Miigwech to everyone who volunteered, donated and came out to support this event. Money raised will be used to help cover the costs for the Elder’s overnight Christmas shopping trip to Duluth.
We wish to extend a Chi Miigwech to John Morrin for his recognition as the “Outstanding American Indian Tribal Official.” John received this award from the Minnesota Indian Education Association (MIEA) during the conference banquet held November 16 at Treasure Island Resort. This award is given to deserving individuals who are working hard and doing great things in Indian country inspiring others. John has served on the Tribal Council for many years sitting on the local education committee, housing board, as an educator and trainer for undoing racism as well as being a traditional speaker for events and ceremonies. He has always supported the ENP and all we do to keep Elders safely living here in Grand Portage. Congratulations!
Above: Sharon Olson won the prize at the caregivers conference. She successfully guessed the contents of the mystery pillow. Left: John Morrin was recognized as an “Outstanding American Indian Tribal Official” by the Minnesota Indian Education Association (MIEA) during the conference and banquet held November 16, 2017, at Treasure Island Resort.
Please remember to sign up for your Medicare Part D. Enrollment continues through Dec. 15. Need more information? Contact the Senior Linkage Line at 1-800-333-2433. The ENP wishes everyone a very blessed Thanksgiving.
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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