On November 12, the Birch Grove Community Center opened senior lunch to military veterans of all ages. West End (W.E.) veterans joined us in a lovely roast beef lunch and a “Salute to Veterans” slideshow presentation.
Attendees were given a booklet with memory puzzles and games. The last page was for memories of military service. Many people contributed family names or relatives who served and veterans wrote of their time in uniform. Names like Pat Hart, Walter Aldinger, Russell Cooley, Red Gervais, Thomas Lawrence, Harry Johnson, and many more flowed during introductions and conversations.
The beauty of time reveals so many are connected by service to their country. Fathers, sons, mothers, daughters, WWI, WWII, Korean War, and more join us together through the years.
As a veteran, I have in common walking in the footsteps of others who served in South Korea, Germany, and the Middle East. The sense of camaraderie and reverence for our brothers and sisters in arms during the meal was humbling.
Each month the Birch Grove Community Center hosts a “Second Sunday Stamp and Scrap Social.” Someof the regulars are pictured here designing scrapbooks and cards and more. Everyone is welcome.
As we go into the season of giving thanks, celebrating our faith, and surviving the short days of deep cold, I hope everyone will say a prayer and send loving thoughts to those still serving.
Snowbirds missed at senior lunches
Senior lunches at Birch Grove Community Center are going well. We are missing our snowbirds who migrated south in October.
Our annual Trestle Inn Trip was well attended and we are taking RSVPs for the December holiday outing for those 55+.
On December 3, we will eat at Waves of Superior Café at Surfside in Tofte. Judi Barsness caters the meal, which includes grilled turkey croissant with Brie, apples, cranberry red onion marmalade with an artisan greens salad, roasted gold and red beets, cider port vinaigrette, tea and coffee with a carrot cupcake. The cost is $20 per person but we ask for a suggested donation and Birch Grove Foundation will cover the remainder. We want everyone to join us without funds deterring participation. Please RSVP by Nov. 30 to 663-7977.
Pickle Ball and Second Sunday Fundays
We are still gathering names and numbers for beginner pickle ball players who want to be contacted for pick-up games. Our Second Sunday Fundays from 3 – 7 p.m. are back. Suggested donation is $5 for general admission.
On Dec 14, the “Stamp and Scrap Social” continues while there is open gym, games, or movies.
RSVP for the Dec 14, 3 – 5 p.m W.E. Cook with award-winning chef Tracy Jacobson. He will lead us in Winter Sweet Treats Baking. The cost is $25 but Sunday Funday guests will have a chance to sample the food!
Many thanks to those who donated and supported us during Give to the Max and Give MN drive this fall. Your generosity is amazing. As always there are many things W.E. Connect for in the West End. I hope you will join us or share your ideas today! Call Caroline at 663-7977 for more information about Birch Grove Foundation and Community Center.
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 Birch Grove Community Center in Tofte courtesy of Caroline Wood.
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