SACs (Senior Activity Center) celebrated the beginning of a new chapter at a ribbon cutting ceremony May 22 as it marked the opening of the new enrichment center in the City Center Mall right next to City Hall in Cambridge. With many city and county officials in attendance, people packed in tight to the new facility to hear them speak and await Congressman Rick Nolan.
“I’m humbled by what’s been done at SACs,” said Barb Bergwall, coordinator with SACs, as she took stock of the support and help from volunteers and the community. “They did the work cheerfully – now we have this beautiful center.”
Mayor Marlys Palmer said the opening of the new center was because of collaboration and hard work.
“The city acknowledges the volunteers and donators,” said Palmer.
As the evening progressed, it became a celebration of volunteerism and the accomplishments and hopes of a generation to build a good community for the aged.
“I just heard today that Minnesota is the number one place for senior citizens,” Palmer said.
Congressman Rick Nolan said “historians will note that the accomplishments of this generation will be unparalleled.” About the SACs enrichment center, Rep. Nolan noted, “this is a tremendous effort put forth…and an asset for those who raise families or who return to this community.”
Nolan quoted former President John F. Kennedy stating that it wasn’t enough to add years to life, but to add life to years. At one point Nolan led the crowd in song, singing “You are My Sunshine.”
Mary Sarault, Chairman of the Isanti County Commission on Aging, said “we have come to this place with no debt.”
“We are grateful for those who helped,” Sarault said. She hopes for the center to be “a welcoming place for families to enjoy, a place where 55-plus can play cards and bring their grandkids and play games.”
The enrichment center has a full kitchen, dining room/café area, and an activity room. Sarault said they plan to start with lunches July first, but hope to start the regular program on Monday, May 26, which will include card clubs, wellness activities, and exercise groups.