We have made it through another year!
December weather has been a rough one for everyone. I am so proud of our West End seniors for getting out in this horrible wind and snow to participate. The strength and fortitude of these people who created and grew this part of Cook County are highly commendable. All of the people who chose to move to this “neck of the woods” to raise their families or to retire contribute in so many ways. Working together to keep our West End strong, productive and sustainable is the goal we should all have, for everyone who shares the desire to live here.
I see in our senior lunch group the care and concern for each other’s well-being. I see neighbors helping neighbors. I see the time so many people in Schroeder, Tofte, and Lutsen spend volunteering. These are the things that keep us all strong and bring a smile to a sad or lonesome face and a light in the heart of all!
This month the big event was Senior Christmas Lunch celebrated at Bluefin Grille in Tofte on Dec. 15. Again, the weather was horrible, and I was so worried about cancellations.
The West End Senior Christmas Lunch was served at Bluefin Grille in Tofte on December 15 with 17 seniors attending. All who attended had an excellent time, said Brenda Melin, program manager for the Birch Grove Community Center. Melin thanked Bluefin owner Dennis Rysdahl for the great food and exceptional hospitality.
Lo and behold, there were 17 seniors in attendance. That is why I am so proud of them all.
Sue Johnson did a fantastic job coordinating this event. The decorations and table dressings created a festive mood. The food was wonderful—thank you, chef! The service was great—thank you, Adriana! I am thinking about the fish sandwich right now. Dennis Rysdahl is much appreciated for providing us with great food and a beautiful view. All had a great time, and Barb Merritt did not have to do dishes.
Senior Lunch is every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. The menu is posted on Boreal Community Calendar Tuesday afternoon or call 663-7977. If you are not a regular, please call in advance so Barb can prepare enough food. If you are regular and do not plan on attending, it is much appreciated if you call in advance. Senior Lunch provides an incredible healthy home-cooked meal, which is always enjoyed by all. Come and eat, catch up on the news, gossip, and the current events.
The Caregiver Coffee Group is held the second Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This is a great informal support group for those in the position of being a caregiver. Share your stories, frustrations, information, etc. It feels good to know you are not alone.
Exercise! Come in and use the equipment, the workout DVDs in Community Room 2. The available equipment includes two treadmills, bio-fit bike, re-bounder, yoga balls, hand weights, etc.
Come in and work out at your leisure or participate in the Monday, Wednesday or Friday senior group from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; a $2 donation per time is requested.
The Pickle Ball group is always looking for participants on Thursdays or Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Call Carroll Peterson at 612-377-8748 or email carrollpeterson3435@yahoo.com for the current schedule. Come on…. give it a try!
The weather is creating a difficult situation for the ice rink. Attempts are being made to make it ready to use; snow gets removed and then it snows, rains and blows again!
AARP Tax Preparation will be available again this year beginning Feb. 9, 2017, every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 13. No appointment is needed, just bring in your documents and identification. The specifics will be available closer to February.
Nail/Foot Care provided by Sawtooth Mountain Clinic is available the third Wednesday of each month. Appointments start at 12:30 p.m. and must be made by Tuesday at 4 p.m. Each appointment is approximately a half-hour. Bring a foot basin, towel and $10 cash. Denise Axtell will make your feet jubilant! Call 663-7977 to reserve a space.
Wi-Fi and two computers are available in Community Room 1. If you do not have access at home, stop in and use ours.
As always, thank you to those who donate, participate and contribute. The best of wishes to all for the New Year!
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 Brenda Melin, program manager.
Leave a Reply