Eleven years in a row, the Annual Portage Senior Health Fair continues producing both education and service for seniors around the Portage community. From Porter Health Systems to the YMCA, the seniors received care in all forms, such as blood pressure and cholesterol testing as well as spinal screenings and ear examinations.
Sue Lynch, the Chairperson for the Mayor's Senior Advisory Committee, along with Mayor Olga Velasquez put the event together, though Sue attributed much of the work to others, saying, "I have a wonderful committee. Nothing like this ever happens with one person. It happens with great people that have great minds who are willing to work together and make something like this happen."
She also thanked the vendors, stating, "We wouldn't be anything without our vendors and our sponsors - the hospitals, the chiropractors, Porter Health Systems, The Council on Aging, our caterers, and we even worked with Best Buy to get a few Wii's to give away this year."
Jonathan Nalli, the CEO of Porter Health Systems sponsored this year's first luncheon as an effort to provide the seniors with a relaxing meal and entertainment after the long health expo.
Mayor Olga spoke at the meal, encouraging the mature citizens of Portage that, "Growing old isn't just about the aches and pains and knowing when it's going to rain. It's about finding meaning and purpose and continuing with life-enrichment."
With the amount of energy and youth at the luncheon, it's clear there are many more years to come for the Portage seniors!