Hello, 2017.

It’s surprising how quickly the past year went by and here I am at my desk, making plans for another year of travel.

Travel began at the Mower County Senior Center in 2007 and many roads have been traveled in the past 10 years.

We’ve host shows of many kinds, including music, riverboat cruises, historic and educational tours seem to highlight our trips along with our annual Mystery Trip, which originated many years ago.

Each year gets to be a real challenge, but spending time with friends and making new ones is our mission.

Looking back to 2016, many one day or short overnight trips continued to peak the interest of our travelers. Remember you do not need to be a member to join us.

Last year, the National Balloon Festival was a great  extended trip in Albuquerque, New Mexico, along with a visit to Santa Fe, New Mexico as we toured the southern United States.

Branson, Missouri, continues to offer new entertainment and venues to visit. This year we also added time to explore St. Joseph, Missouri. What an eye opener and definitely a place we would like to visit again.

You may remember that it is in St. Joseph that the Pony Express began. There was also the Jesse James Museum and much more, including over 27 museums of well documented history.

This year’s schedule is in the making and we will have a calendar of travel available. There are several shows, more cruises, and a longer trip planned for later in the year.

From 9 a.m. to noon on Feb. 15 we will have our annual Minnesota Coffee Party at the senior center. Invite a friend and join us. Bring photos to share from past trips.

If you would like to receive a monthly schedule of the senior center activities, which includes our travel schedule you may stop by the front desk and join for $2 a month. That also gives you a discount on many of our trips.

The Travel Office does not have regular hours while making plans. Many places we visit are also booking their shows and events. I do plan to see you on Feb. 15.

You may however call the travel number at 507-438-3946. I will return your calls. Enjoy the activities that are going on at our Mower County Senior Center.