This next month, I will have worked for the Senior Center a half a year! Whew, that is hard to believe, as every day seems like play. Last week, staff from another office walked in, I was putting a puzzle together and Beverly was playing cards – tough job we have, I almost felt guilty. Seriously, it has been great doing fun things and getting to know all who come through the doors of the Senior Center. If you haven’t visited us, just give a call with your email to receive the newsletter of upcoming activities scheduled for November, and join in the fun.
I’m starting out the column with a fun event on Tuesday, October 31, our Halloween party at the center. It starts at 1 p.m. Be sure to come in costume, as we will be awarding prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. A line-up of entertainment is scheduled and of course mingling and snacks are a must.
Our book club is shaping up nicely, with new people each month. This month we meet on Thursday, October 19 at 1 p.m. discussing Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi. I have compiled a book list for the next months through February, so stop down at the Senior Center and pick one up. Looking ahead our November read is A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. We meet once a month and have a discussion of our books. This is an open group at this time.
Seniors took a fall color tour up the trail to Trail Center. Thank you Sarah Hamilton for your hospitality and wonderful heart! Left to right: Walt Mianowski, Tom Hedstrom, Geri Jensen, Renette Pearse, Linda Johnson, Conrad Wika, Nona Smith, Therese Morrison, Kim Nelson.
Our next quilting project begins November 1, tackling an Asymmetrical Square design using flannel material (you may use any type of material). This is a lap-size quilt. It is a simple pattern so it is easy for beginners, and yet striking for advanced quilters. As we start getting into these cold months ahead this lap quilt would be great to have. The quilt group will work on this in November, Wednesdays at 10 a.m. to noon. Call the Senior Center for a supplies list.
For those who can’t make a month commitment but love to do sewing projects, I have just the class for you. On Friday, October 20 we will be having a Felted Landscape project. This is a one-day event working all day (10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.). Bring a bag lunch or dine with us here at the Senior Center for lunch ($4 for seniors, $7.50 everyone else). This is a combination of machine sewing and needle felting. Cost: supply fee of $15 (everything but the sewing machine).
One of the things on Kaye Kraft’s bucket list was to make a quilt. This summer she completed one and can take that off her list.
The Grand Portage Casino trip on Monday, October 23 is in need of more bodies! This is a day trip, leaving the Senior Center at 9:45 a.m. and returning at approximately 3 p.m. When the participant level reaches 12 there are great incentives for play and a discount in the restaurant.
If you love working with children, or you miss your grandchildren and need your Nana fix, give me a call (218- 387-2660). We are trying to set up some reading time with GES and our seniors. Also, our Art Across the Ages meets twice a month and could use your help to guide kids in finishing their art projects.
Medicare Open Enrollment is here! Marjorie Bottila will be at the Senior Center to help you navigate through this process. Don’t try and figure out Medicare and all the insurance supplement options available to you alone. Give Marjorie a call (1-800-333-2433 ext. 81008) to set up an appointment on Thursday, October 26 at the Senior Center. She will be taking appointments at 8 a.m. through 4 p.m.
Also, on Thursday, October 26 we will be collaborating with the Folk House during their Fresh Cut Woodturning Week. Harley Refsal, a Scandinavian flat plane carver, will be demonstrating and showing his wares at the Senior Center. Did you know there is an open carving night at the Folk House: Tuesday, October 17, 24, and 24? It is free, a skill share drop in.
After attending a Higher Education presentation on genealogy, I wanted to take it a step further. I left the presentation inspired to start my hunt for my ancestors, but didn’t know where or what I should be looking for. On November 13, at 1 p.m., the Senior Center will offer a work session on genealogy. We hope to have computers available and take you through some steps of research and give you some forms that will help guide your search. If you are just beginning or have been at it awhile come on down to work on your projects. My hope is to get people started, so that after the new year we may be able to offer a trip to the Iron Range Research Center to help further our search.
Looking ahead…next month we are hoping to have a Pie Bingo on Wednesday, November 22 at 1 p.m. Would you, or do you know someone who would donate a pie to this cause? Bingo is always a favorite of our seniors, and next month in honor of Thanksgiving I would like to add a little excitement to it. Who doesn’t like eating pie; or winning one for that matter? Give me a call (218-387- 2660), if you are interested in helping us out.
Cook County has a vibrant and active community of elders. Each week we offer Senior News to highlight our senior citizens. This week’s submission is about the Cook County Senior Center, courtesy of Programs and Service Coordinator Kim Nelson.
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