Do not regret growing older. It is a privelege denied to many. - Unknown. We are an aging population. Although growing older brings aches and pains, it also brings wisdom and hopefully a chance to enjoy our golden years. As I contemplate growing older, I think of several verses in the Bible that mention aging. For example, Psalm 92:14 They will still yield fruit in old age; they shall be full of sage and very green; and Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness. As I have gotten older, I’ver realized what a blessing senior citizens are - especially to the younger generation.
The dictionary says a senior citizen is an elderly person, especially one who is retired. Age has a great deal to do with attitude, in my opinion. I’ve heard age is mind over matter: if you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter! Some folks I know act old at 35. Some 100 year old people act half their age and are young at heart. It helps if people have a purpose into their golden years. Many people I know are now working or volunteering until a ripe old age when their health allows. Some need the income, but many simply seem to enjoy the interaction.
In some circles, senior discounts are given to anyone over the age of 55. I was recently asked by a 12 year old clerk if I would like to take advantage of the senior discount when I checked out at a store in St. Cloud. Apparently, I looked like 40 miles of bad road that day! Clerks seem to be getting younger all the time.
At last week’s Becker Chamber meeting, the guest speaker was Becker Area Senior Center (BASC) Coordinator Carol Brunn. She gave a very interesting report on what’s happening with their organization. A very wide variety of activities are offered for people ages 55 plus. Anyone from Becker, Big Lake, Clear Lake, Palmer, Duelm, Santiago, and surrounding areas are welcome to attend activities Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 2pm at Becker City Hall, Room 140. Their goal is to enrich the lives of those age 55+ through social, educational and physical activities.
Some of the activities offered to seniors include card playing, crafts, off-site trips, square dancing and much more. They also offer Bingo with prizes at Becker McDonalds Wednesdays from 2-3pm.
Musical groups provide entertainments and free movies are offered monthly.
BASC also hosts educational speakers on topics such as safety, health and wellness, history, gardening and finance. They also take attendees on educational tours of area sites. One newer activity offered is Bone Builders - an exercise program for seniors held Thursdays at 10 am. Wood whittling is held Thursdays at 11am. Water color painting is offered two Thursdays per month at noon.
Volunteers at the senior center make blankets for the local police departments and others in need, as well as volunteering at local schools.
BASC works closely with Becker Community Education to offer special events and programs. Michelle Peacock (Community Ed Director, Becker) is an active volunteer with the group. When I asked Michelle what she enjoys most about helping with the BASC, she told me: “I enjoy the energy of this group! They never get tired and never stop coming up with great creative ideas. They welcome all with open arms and never say never. This group of 55+ encourages feedback and they take it all to heart. They have such a passion for what they do - it is so evident when you watch them work.”
BASC Coordinator Carol Brunn is very committed to offering area seniors a variety of activities - and it shows. “I thoroughly enjoy working with seniors and seeing how much they appreciate the activities we offer. Seeing people come together and form friendships is a blessing”, Carol said.
A fall trip to Brainerd is scheduled for Oct. 16 - Geritol Frolicks - and there are still openings.
BASC is always in need of volunteers to share skills and ideas. Board members are also needed. If you’d like to volunteer, please call 763-528-0463 or e-mail: basc.becker@gmail.com
