November 1959
First interest shown by group of individuals concerning program for senior citizens. Dr. William Wellman invited local leaders to a dinner to discuss how to address the needs of the elderly in this area.
February 1960
City-wide Meeting on Aging held in North Hall of Mayo Civic Auditorium
April 1960
Rochester Recreation Department started a Monday and Friday afternoon program in North Hall of Mayo Civic Auditorium
June 1960
First employee, Miss Angela Kelly, hired to work part-time, compiling and tabulating the information from a survey that was distributed to area residents.
June 1961
At Miss Kelly’s suggestion, her position was abolished until more services were needed.
September 1961
Group incorporated and the official beginning of Senior Citizens Services, Inc. came into being.
February 1962
Senior Citizens Services Inc. employed its first full-time Director, Miss Grace Gordon. Program then was increased to 5 days a week.
April 1962
Moved to the American Legion area in the South Hall of Mayo Civic Auditorium. Day Center opened.
October 1963
Rochester Recreation Department withdrew from senior citizens program.
April 1966
Senior Citizens Services, Inc. moved into the Balfour House at 427 6th Avenue SW.
July 1966
Three year Demonstration Grant was awarded to Senior Citizens Services, Inc.
November 1966
First Executive Director, Roger Stasek, was hired.
December 1966
Grace Gordon retires as Director
December 1966
Membership = 211 and Attendance = 6,418 at year end.
February 1967
Six county satellite centers were started: Byron, Chatfield, Eyota, Oronoco, Pine Island and Stewartville.
February 1967
First full-time Program Director, Mrs. Mildred Alexander, was hired at Balfour House.
March 1968
First city satellite center started at Town Hall Estates with a 2-day per week program.
November 1970
Semi-monthly noon luncheons began at Balfour House.
January 1971
Second city satellite center started at Samaritan Bethany with a 2-day per week program.
October 1972
Senior Citizens Services, Inc. began a transportation program (through Minnesota Title III Project) with a 25-passenger bus providing daily service.
February 1973
Weekly noon luncheons began at Salvation Army in lieu of semi-monthly luncheons at the Balfour House.
March 1973
A third day of activities added to the weekly Town Hall Estates program.
January 1974
First Nutrition Director hired.
January 1974
Senior Citizens Services, Inc. relinquished its control of the Pine Island satellite program.
March 1974
Five-day week Title VII Nutrition Program began.
April 1974
Second half-day added to county satellites.
May 1974
Senior Citizens Services, Inc. moved from Balfour House to Park Towers.
June 1974
Discontinued Samaritan Bethany program.
July 1974
Daily 5-day week activities began at Park Towers.
October 1974
Beginning of meals program in Eyota, Byron and Stewartville.
November 1974
Free book delivery to shut-ins via the Center’s bus.
December 1974
Membership = 1773 and Attendance = 43,434 at year-end.
May 1975
Bus service provided for Foster Grandparent Program.
July 1975
First Secretary for Nutrition Program hired.
January 1976
Began health programs through the Public Health Center – 4th Wednesday of each month.
January 1976
The meal service in Eyota was increased from one to two days per week.
March 1976
A social worker from Social Services was designated to visit our meal sites and accept referrals from our Agency.
August 1976
First annual Senior Citizens Volunteer Day held.
December 1976
Meal service at Chatfield discontinued.
March 1977
An expanded physical fitness program was instituted.
April 1977
Property tax and rent rebate assistance extended to the county satellites.
June 1977
The Board of Directors moved to proceed with negotiations to obtain Armory.
July 1977
An Outreach worker was employed through the Nutrition Program on a part-time basis.
November 1977
Rochester City Council purchases “old armory” property from the MN Dept. of the Military at the cost of $45,000 to turn the building into a Senior Center.
December 1977
The meal service in Eyota and Stewartville was increased from two to three days a week. Meal service in Byron discontinued.
January 1978
Lifetime Membership was initiated for $30 per person. 126 people became Lifetime members.
February 1978
Demolition of the Armory interior was started.
July 1978
Senior Citizens Services, Inc. Program Directors worked at Disaster Assistance Centers aiding senior citizen flood victims. Free transportation was provided for these flood victims to the centers.
August 1978
Public Health Nursing program for senior citizens was cut back.
December 1978
Membership = 1,940 and Attendance = 53,940 at year end.
February 1979
Agency moved into its new permanent quarters – the Armory. First janitor-maintenance person employed.
April 1979
Programs officially began in new Center. Community Education program began at Center.
May 1979
An open house was held at the new Center and an estimated 1,500 people attended.
July 1979
A volunteer hostess program was instituted at the Center.
December 1979
Membership = 2,403 and Attendance = 65,671 at year end.
January 1980
Legal Aid started working out of the Center.
June 1980
Membership Dues increased from $1.00 to $8.00 annually and $50.00 for Lifetime Membership. Before 1963, membership was free.
July 1980
An Outreach worker was employed through Title III-B of the Older Americans Act. (Advocacy Program)
October 1980
The third floor of the Center was completed and dedicated in honor of Mr. Fred Reed.
December 1980
City of Rochester approved funding of $18,000 to finish the remodeling of the Center.
January 1981
Senior Citizens’ bus was sold and transportation program discontinued due to lack of funds.
May 1981
The Elderberry Gift Shop opened on the 2nd floor of the Center.
June 1981
Silver Threads Square Dance Club was formed at the Center
October 1981
County Commissioners informed Senior Citizens Services, Inc. they would no longer support the Agency.
November 1981
Southeastern Minnesota Area Agency on Aging moved into the Library area and will remain there rent-free until July, 1982.
November 1981
Library moves to the 2nd floor of the Center
November 1981
Foster Grandparent program moves into a lower level office of the Center.
December 1981
Due to financial cutbacks, the County Satellite program and the part-time Program Leader at the Center were discontinued at month’s end.
April 1982
Held 1st annual City-Wide Prayer Breakfast
May 1982
A second in-city meal site was started at Redeemer Lutheran Church.
May 1983
Assistance in filing property tax refunds began. This was undertaken as a direct result of budget cuts at the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
November 1983
The Senior Citizens Memorial Foundation was established and received its charter.
November 1983
Began presenting “Monthly Advocacy Updates” to surrounding communities – Stewartville, Eyota, Oronoco, Dover, Byron and the two Rochester meal sites.
January 1984
Membership dues increased to $12.00 annually and $175.00 for Lifetime Membership.
January 1984
The S.C.S. Club raised their annual donation to the Center from $6,000 to $8,000.
April 1984
Conducted a city-wide canvassing of senior citizens providing them with information about the Center’s programs.
July 1984
Assumed the Share-A-Home program which was previously handled through Channel One.
October 1984
Stewartville meal site increased its meal service from three to five days per week.
March 1985
Notary Public service was made available.
January 1986
Free dental check program began.
March 1986
Paging and speaker system installed in building.
April 1986
Part-time Meal Site Coordinator and Dining Secretary positions became one full-time position.
October 1986
Celebrated the 25th Anniversary of Senior Citizens Services, Inc.
April 1987
Began computerization with the purchase of two computers.
November 1987
The third City Meal Site opened at Peace United Church of Christ.
August 1988
First Director of Development, Darry Welde, hired.
October 1988
Stewartville Meal Site moved to new Stewartville Civic Center.
October 1988
Began Senior Citizens Services, Inc. sponsored activities at the new Stewartville Civic Center.
January 1989
Senior Citizens Trip Program was contracted to Rochester City Bus Lines.
February 1989
The Kitchen Band began practicing and entertaining at the Senior Citizens Center.
May 1989
Celebrated 10 years of being in “The Armory” with an open house.
December 1990
The Senior Citizens Center was named “Outstanding Center of the Region” by SEMAAA.
March 1991
Began a fundraising partnership with Barlow Foods. Barlow’s donated 1% of total register sale tape dollars that were turned in.
April 1991
First annual “Retired Treasures Sale” was held.
June 1991
Sandy Retzlaff retired as editor of the monthly newsletter.
January 1992
Lifetime membership fee was raised to $250.00.
January 1992
City of Rochester assisted Senior Citizens Services, Inc. with a grant of $31,000 to offset utilities expense.
June 1992
Major fundraiser planned to address future financial hardships. The first annual Million Dollar Hole-In-One golf event was staged at the Olmsted Co. Fairgrounds and netted over $10,000.
September 1992
City of Rochester leased the parking lot north of the Center to Senior Citizens Services, Inc. This is the first Center regulated parking area in the history of the Agency.
January 1993
City of Rochester increased its financial support to $39,500 for the Center’s utilities.
January 1994
ABC began doing dishes for the Senior Center.
November 1994
The first monthly All-You-Can-Eat Chicken Dinner was served to 120 people.
January 1995
Membership dues were raised from $15.00 to $25.00 yearly. Lifetime Memberships were eliminated for new sales.
February 1995
First annual Walk Around the Clock fundraiser was held.
June 1995
Annual Million Dollar Hole-In-One golf event changed from 5 days to 4 days for tax reasons.
July 1995
New carpet was installed on the first and second floors.
July 1995
The Senior Citizens Center went smoke free.
November 1996
Roger Stasek retired after 30 years as Executive Director.
November 1996
Sally Gallagher was promoted from Program Director to Executive Director.
November 1996
New Dining Site opened at Northgate Plaza high-rise.
February 1997
The SeniorNet Computer Lab opened.
June 1997
Million Dollar Hole-In-One event was held at Meadow Lakes Golf Club instead of fairgrounds.
July 1997
New Dining Site opened at Park Towers high-rise.
December 1997
Power assisted doors were installed at both entrances. This was made possible by a donation from A.F. of L. Labor Temple Association.
January 1998
Updated the heating and cooling system of the Center.
February 1998
Installed a file server for all computers.
August 1998
Hired first Director of Development–Darry Welde.
Septemer 1998
Remodeled 2nd floor offices (former smoking lounges).
September 1998
Installed new 3rd floor window at front of building.
October 1998
The Community Education Director, Sandy Retzlaff, retired. The position was not refilled.
November 1998
Installed new alarm and security system.
January 1999
Adopted new Mission Statement: “…to provide programs and services for all older adults which encourage an active, healthy and independent lifestyle.”
January 1998
Membership dues changed to $27 per person or $50 per couple.
January 1998
Added a new position of part-time Recreation Assistant.
February 1999
The Senior Citizens Center connected to the Internet.
March 1999
Purchased the Amoco property north of the Senior Citizens Center. Through a Capital Campaign, money was raised to purchase and construct a parking lot.
May 1999
Received $93,666 from the Maynard Krueger Estate.
June 1999
Received $20,000 from the Emma Schmidt Estate to make capital improvements to the Center.
June 1999
Summer hours were implemented – Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
July 1999
Officially closed on the ownership of the Amoco property.
August 1999
The Center remained open on Thursday evenings for activities.
December 1999
Held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Senior Citizens Center’s new parking lot.
December 1999
Received $15,000 from Carl & Verna Schmidt Foundation and $5,000 from Frank & Jean Judd designated for building capital improvements.
January 2000
Due to budget cuts, the Senior Dining Director position will be eliminated as of March 31, 2000.
February 2000
Held the first “Chocolate Fantasy Plus” fundraiser with over 200 attending.
March 2000
Share-A-Home Program was closed due to funding cuts.
April 2000
Program Director began producing the monthly “Newsletter” in house.
May 2000
Long time Community Ed. Director, Sandy Retzlaff, passed away.
September 2000
The Dining Program contracted with Head Start to prepare noon meals.
October 2000
Announced the “Senior Legacy Society” at an estate planning seminar and dinner.
November 2000
Ceramics Instructor resigned after 13 years.
November 2000
Replaced 13 windows using a City Block Grant.
December 2000
Upgraded the heating/cooling controls using a City Block Grant.
December 2000
Rochester Senior Center Foundation received $225,000 (1/3 of Roy Hesby’s bequest)
December 2000
Received $25,000 from Carl & Verna Schmidt Foundation ($5,000 for Center/$20,000 for Dining)
December 2000
Received $5,000 from Jean Judd for building improvements.
December 2000
Buck Zobel was recipient of the MN Vikings Community Quarterback Award ($3,500 to Center)
January 2001
Membership for couples was eliminated. Dues are $27.00 per person.
January 2001
A van was donated by Don and Arlene Strelow for delivering meals to the Dining Sites.
January 2001
Held 1st annual SeniorNet Lab fundraiser at Outback Steakhouse.
March 2001
A new dining site was opened at Fontaine Towers.
June 2001
The 10th annual Hole-In-One fundraiser was held.
June 2001
Silver Treads Square Dance Club celebrated 20 years.
July 2001
Rochester Senior Center Foundation received final gift from Roy Hesby’s estate. Total = $668,000
September 2001
Board Member Florence Schubert was named MN Outstanding Senior Citizen at the State Fair.
September 2001
Rochester Senior Center’s Club Board changed their name to Advisory Council.
October 2001
Installed new air conditioning units funded through City Block Grant funds.
October 2001
Received $5,600 from Carl & Verna Schmidt Foundation.
November 2001
The Board of Directors voted to continue the Dining Program for one year.
November 2001
The Board of Directors voted to continue the Advocacy Program for the first quarter of 2002.
December 2001
Seniors in Touch program ended after 8 years.
January 2002
Membership dues were raised from $27 to $30 per person.
January 2002
Rochester Park & Rec. agreed to plow the Center’s parking lot at no cost.
April 2002
Olmsted County granted the Dining Program a Waivered Meals Contract for those clients.
April 2002
Decision made to allocate $5,000 for Stewartville Program. County will fund $5,000.
June 2002
Web site was developed for the Center. www.rochesterseniorcenter.org
July 2002
Advocacy Program received new Title III-E Caregiver Grant to expand program.
September 2002
SCS, Club (Advisory Council) no longer meets monthly or has President position.
November 2002
Held 1st annual “Celebration of Life” event honoring 75 members age 90 or over in attendance.
November 2002
Received $114,000 from Donald Hardy estate.
November 2002
The Dining Program received “Employer of the Year” award from ABC.
December 2002
New carpet was installed on 3rd floor using City Block Grant funds.
December 2002
New dishwasher installed for Dining Program using City Block Grant funds
December 2002
Received $15,000 from Carl & Verna Schmidt Foundation
January 2003
New Dining Site opened at Central Towers.
January 2003
Held a Winter Hole-In-One event at Rochester Airena Golf Dome
June 2003
International Friendship Club began and was given office space at Center
June 2003
Sustained water damage in 1st floor kitchen and dining room. The walk-in cooler pump valve ruptured. Insurance covered.
July 2003
Sustained water damage – roof leaked due to rainfall. Pool room was closed 3 weeks. Insurance did not cover.
July 2003
Began our Long-Range Strategic Planning sessions
August 2003
One-year contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield for a blood pressure machine.
September 2003
Received $5,000 from the Carl & Verna Schmidt Foundation.
October 2003
Sustained water damage – sprinkler head in boiler room on 3rd floor malfunctioned. Water damage on all three floors back stairways. Insurance covered.
October 2003
A new roof was installed and a new air conditioner compressor for 1st floor was installed using City Block Grant funds.
December 2003
A van was purchased for the Dining Program’s use in delivering meals. Rochester Exchange Club donated $3,000 toward the purchase.
December 2003
Received the balance of Donald Hardy’s estate – $39,984, for a total of $153,984.
January 2004
Adopted new mission statement…”A community partnership providing programs, recreation, and services which encourage active, healthy, independent lifestyles for people over 50.
February 2004
5th annual Chocolate Fantasy fundraiser held with 350 in attendance.
April 2004
Held year 2003 Annual Meeting and Luncheon.
April 2004
Began creation of the “First Class Coupon Book” fundraiser.
May 2004
Held the 22nd annual City-Wide Prayer Breakfast.
September 2004
The 11th annual Golden Generation Expo was held at Mayo Civic Center.
November 2004
Held the “First Class Coupon Book” fundraiser unveiling.
December 2004
Updated the fire protection system and did tuck pointing on the building using CDBG Funds.
June 2005
Opened Dining Site at High Pointe Senior Housing Complex
July 2005
New online registration tool created by Board Member Deb Nusbaum and husband Dave.
September 2005
Electronic Billboard installed
December 2005
Bathrooms on 2nd floor updated to meet ADA standards using CDBG Funds.
January 2006
Started in-house bookkeeping and record-keeping using QuickBooks.
March 2006
Initiated Chair-ity Drive to raise funds to purchase 650 chairs for the Center.
April 2006
Senior Dining Site in Eyota moved from Holy Redeemer Church to Arbor Gardens. Meals now provided through contract with Arbor Gardens.
April 2006
Somali Program began due to special funding from the United Way.
April 2006
2nd Senior Stars on Broadway talent show. (1st one held in 1994)
May 2006
Castle Café opened offering Monday-Friday Soup/Sandwich/Salad Bar option, open to the public.
May 2006
Vision statement changed to “Providing opportunities for seniors to age well and be successfully independent.”
June 2006
Silver Treads Square Dance Club celebrates 25th Anniversary 6-13-06.
June 2006
Rochester Morning Pride Lions held 1st annual Charity Golf Classic benefitting the Senior Center.
June 2006
Additional day of Foot Care Clinic now available.
June 2006
Foundation received anonymous gift of $102,727.
July 2006
Van donated to the Senior Center to use for programming from the Socrates Futbal Club. Received additional donation of $1900.
July 2006
Began Meal Service at Salvation Army, Adult Day Program.
August 2006
Jo Hess retired as the Stewartville Site Coordinator after 20 years of service.
August 2006
Agency Board of Directors selected Henry Lester & Associates of LaCrosse, WI to conduct research study for the Center.
September 2006
Heather Larson hired as new Stewartville Site Coordinator.
September 2006
Implemented cash register system in the Business Office.
September 2006
Monthly donation book to raise funds for Senior Dining Program now available.
September 2006
Received 250 chairs from Chair-ity Drive for 1st and 2nd Floors
October 2006
Rochester Senior Center Foundation voted to purchase assets of Circus World Bingo from Lourdes Foundation.
November 2006
Received $10,000 grant from the Schmidt Foundation to apply towards start of Respite Program.
December 2006
New freezer installed using CDBG Funds.
January 2007
Rochester Senior Center Foundation began operation of Circus World Bingo (CWB).
February 2007
Chocolate Fantasy Plus cancelled due to low restaurant participation.
March 2007
Agency and Foundation Board of Directors implemented Drug & Alcohol Testing Policy.
March 2007
Collaboration with Catholic Charities RSVP Program, providing office space at Center in exchange for assistance with volunteer recruitment.
March 2007
Rochester Senior Center listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
April 2007
Schmidt Foundation grant transferred to Chair-ity Drive from Respite Program.
April 2007
Research Study results ready for review by Agency & Foundation Board of Directors.
April 2007
Sold programming van for $800.
May 2007
Director of Development Darryl Welde retired.
May 2007
Held Grand Opening at CWB, now known as Flamingo Bingo. Name suggested by Denise Stachnik
June 2007
Received $61,000 bequest from Ruth Polzin estate.
August 2007
Heather Larson resigned as Stewartville Site Coordinator.
August 2007
Agency Board of Directors voted to continue supporting Stewartville Program for 2 months, will re-evaluate after seeing good progress.
August 2007
Agency and Foundation Board of Directors adopted recommendations from research study to expand our facility and meet the demands of our growing aging population.
September 2007
Respite Program began as collaboration with Elder Network, offered twice a month.
September 2007
Received all-clear from Pollution Control, old Amoco Wells were capped off.
October 2007
New boilers installed using CDBG Funds.
October 2007
Hired new Development/Foundation Director, Dean Stenehjem.
October 2007
Duplicate Bridge class moved to Flamingo Bingo due to space constraints at the Center.
Nov/Dec 2007
Replaced carpet on 1st floor and 2nd floor (hallways, library, offices 201-204) using CDBG Funds.
January 2008
Began Community Consensus Process meetings in Stewartville to determine plans for the future.
January 2008
Chairs from Chair-ity Drive received for Fred Reed Hall.
September 2008
Held Open House event to kick off evening programs. Offered $10 off membership during the month of September. 102 members joined during the month.
September 2008
Extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 9pm. Offering new programs in evenings.
September 2008
Extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 9pm. Offering new programs in evenings.
October 2008
Hispanic programming began through partnership with IMAA, Elder Network and Hawthorne Education Center.
November 2008
Drain issue in the kitchen turned into major problem, pipe was corroded extending all the way to the hallway. Floor was taken up and pipe replaced. Lost one day of dining program service, served pizza instead.
April 2009
Board of Directors voted to not accept allocation from United Way of Olmsted County; requested $122,000; allocated $40,000. Recreation programs no longer funded.
May 2009
SEMCAC took over the Stewartville Senior Dining Program, using Gleason’s Catering.
June 2009
Received last payment from United Way of Olmsted County. Staff hours cut from 40 to 37 hours a week. Center closes at 1:00 p.m. on Fridays.
September 2009
Stewartville Senior Center now falls under the Stewartville Area Foundation. Stewartville funds that we have on the books will be used for Stewartville programming expenses until fund is depleted.
October 2009
Received Community Partner Award from SEMCIL
November 2009
Resealed and Restriped parking lot; 1st & 3rd floor bathrooms updated; through use of CDBG Funds.
November 2009
Give to the Max Day 11/17 raised $4,080 from 37 donors; received match of $164.90.
February 2010
Switched Health Insurance Plan for Employees from BlueCross BlueShield to Health Partners.
March 2010
Directed Giving Alliance accepted by Local Independent Charities of America, 13 organizations involved in Alliance working to increase charitable donations through workplace giving.
March 2010
Fiscal agent for MN Theatre Company in order for group to receive funds. One-time arrangement, we received $100 administrative fee.
March 2010
SchedulesPlus software added additional capabilities thanks to volunteers Deb & Dave Nusbaum. Can now do registration, volunteer hour tracking, and room reservations on one system.
June 2010
Received full Accreditation from the National Institute of Senior Centers through the National Council on Aging. Accreditation is good for 5 years.
August 2010
Received one-year grant with SEMAAA for Live Well at Home program. Social worker add’l hours.
August 2010
Mission changed to “To enrich the lives of older adults.”
September 2010
Painted interior of Center, new ice machine and counter unit in Dining Room, through use of Community Development Block Grant Funds.
September 2010
End of Meal Contract with Salvation Army Adult Day Program.
September 2010
Presented joint proposal to City Council appointed Sales Tax Extension Committee for funding for Remodel/Expansion of Rec Center for Community Center/Senior Center.
September 2010
Signed Purchase Agreement to purchase the Podein Property for future expansion.
September 2010
Signed Lease Agreement with Podein for the continuance of the business until which time we need the property.
October 2010
First Annual Quilts on Parade Quilt Gala event held. Gala/Auction/Dance Friday night, Showcase of quilts on Saturday. Net profit $19,000. Major Sponsor: Med City Mobility
October 2010
Eliminated Ceramics Instructor position.
October 2010
Board President Deb Nusbaum accepted to present workshop at National Conference in San Francisco in April 2011. Topic: Volunteers: Your Best Asset
November 2010
Board decided funding not available for 2 presenters to attend National Conference.
December 2010
Membership age for Senior Center changed to 62 due to requirements by HUD in order to receive Community Block Grant Funds. Associate Memberships available for anyone 61 years or younger.
December 2010
Walt Podein officially signed the lease for the continuance of the business on the property
December 2010
City Council included Community Center/Senior Center in proposal for 1/2 % Sales Tax Extension.
December 2010
New Single Member LLC created for the Rochester Senior Center Foundation.
December 2010
Board of Directors voted to have administration of Senior Dining Program revert back to SEMCAC.
December 2010
Membership = 1,685 and Attendance = 82,999 at year end.
January 2011
Senior Center and SEMCIL overseeing County’s Vital Aging Committee; their purpose it to advocate and advise the County Board.
January 2011
Contract with HeadStart ended 1/31/2011.
March 2011
Donation based meal program ended 3/31/2011. SEMCAC administering program effective 4/1/2011. Senior Center meal site has been closed due to low participation.
March 2011
Personnel policy changed to follow other Center policies. Sick/Vacation/Holiday pay discontinued for part-time staff (under 32 hours/week).
March 2011
Board approved new Telephone Reassurance Program.
March 2011
Closed on the purchase of the Podein property.
March 2011
Use of credit cards now accepted.
April 2011
Transition of Rooms made due to space constraints and need to make more welcoming. Gift Shop moved to NE corner, Library/Lounge moved to 1st floor.
April 2011
Expanded Castle Café on Broadway opens. Now serving Continental Breakfast from 7:30-10 am and Lunch from 11 am-12:30 pm.
April 2011
Center was accepted to have booth at Thursdays on 1st & Third, seven dates this summer.
April 2011
New allocation formula from Foundation to Center. 5% of rolling 3-yr average of net assets; Bingo contribution is above & beyond Foundation contribution.
April 2011
Board President, Deb Nusbaum, featured on cover of Today Magazine
July 2011
Began paying part-time Gambling Manager, Deb Nusbaum.
September 2011
Celebrated 50 Years of Incorporation with week of festivities.
October 2011
Board supports new Fundraising Event, Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos, as part of WinterFest.
November 2011
Received 4 technology cash grants from IBM – $3,000 for SeniorNet, $10,000 for SeniorNet, $5,000 for Senior Center, $3,000 for Senior Center Foundation.
November 2011
Senior Center and SEMCIL no longer participating in County’s Vital Aging Commission.
December 2011
Med City Mobility partnering with Senior Center in 2012. Financial support of $27,500.
January 2012
First Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos fundraiser held at the Wicked Moose. Net profit $10,300.
January 2012
Sally Gallagher and Deb Nusbaum members of City’s Sales Tax Extension Steering Committee.
February 2012
Health Insurance Plan for Staff returned to Blue Cross Blue Shield.
February 2012
Staff hours reverted to 40 hours per week. Center Hours remain M-Th 9 am-4 pm and F 9 am-1 pm.
February 2012
City Council appointed Sandra Means to Agency Board of Directors.
March 2012
Monthly Evening Theme Meals held in the Castle Café.
March 2012
Sale Into Spring (former Retired Treasures Sale) charged $1 for Pre-Sale, 1 hr. prior, 231 attended.
April 2012
Touch-Screen Computers installed on all 3 floors for Attendance/Volunteer Hour Tracking. Paid for by Grant from IBM.
May 2012
Received Bequest from D. Cockroft Estate, $92,765.
May 2012
Foundation started investing Senior Center funds (reserves). Separate accounts, not co-mingled.
May 2012
Gambling starting paying back Foundation for start-up loan. First payment, $10,000.
June 2012
Board approved in the Spring the hiring of a PT Volunteer Coordinator position. New hire starts mid-June.
August 2012
New website developed for Senior Center by Board Member Deb Nusbaum.
August 2012
Foundation being audited by the State for Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT).
September 2012
1st Celebrity Bartending Event held at Big Brad’s on Broadway. Sally and Dean bartended, raised $472 in tips for the Center.
November 2012
Successful passage of Sales Tax Extension! Senior Center moving to the Rec. Center Property!!
February 2013
Break-in at Flamingo Bingo through office window, resulted in 2 closed days.
May 2013
First of 3 Strategic Planning sessions held at University of MN-Rochester.
July 2013
Agency & Foundation Board Members at Strategic Planning session #3 moved to merge the two organizations.
August 2013
Boards adopt the new Strategic Plan; will start holding Joint Board meetings in Jan. 2014.
August 2013
Boards voted approval of deeding the Podein Property to the City, selling the Center’s parking lot to repay the Foundation.
August 2013
Received notice that may not be able to renew lease of Flamingo Bingo building for 2014.
November 2013
Board approved implementation of Political Policy effective January 2014.
April 2014
Merger between Rochester Senior Center Foundation and Senior Citizens Services, Inc. became effective.
April 2014
Flamingo Bingo moved to The Elks location at Hillcrest Shopping Center
December 2014
Flamingo Bingo Charitible Gambling operation closed
January 2015
Board gives approval to get appraisal of Center owned parking lots
February 2015
New Center Naming Committee Appointed by Board
February 2015
Board President, Bruce Swanson died unexpectedly. Vice-President–Mark Cairns, assumed duties.
March 2015
Construction bids due for New Center on March 17th. Three construction firms bid the projects. ‘Best value bidding process was used. Highest scoring bidder was Kraus Anderson. ‘Lowest price bidder was Kraus Anderson. However, the lowest cost bid was $2.3M over the construction budget.
April 2015
Senior Center & Park & Rec. worked with KA to find construction cost savings (value engineering). ‘$1.3M in savings was identified, leaving a $1M gap. Senior Center and Park & Rec. requested the City fund the $1M gap allowing the project to move forward on time.
April 2015
City Council voted to approve KA as the construction contractor, with the reduction of $1.3M to be made to the contract. City did not approve providing an additional $1.3M from the general fund to cover the gap.
April 2015
Board approved moving Podein property lease from Walt Podein to Post Bulletin Delivery.
May 2015
Castle Café closed due to low attendance and high operating costs
May 2015
Board approves and gives Finance Committee authority to negoiatate and develop MOU with the City of Rochester for the New Center.
May 2015
Membership dues raised to $70/year for age 65+
May 2015
New Name Committee presented new name, logo, etc. selected for the New Center.
June 2015
Asbestos found in the old dump material at the construction site. Work is halted to understand the conditions.
June/August 2015
Board Training for New Center Capital Campaign
July 2015
Board accepts updated Naming of Gifts Policy Board accepts updated Gift Acceptance Policies & Guidelines
July 2015
Construction significantly behind schedule due to the unforeseen soil conditions. Pool, locker rooms, etc. will not open as scheduled in September.
July 2015
Annual Rummage Sales will discontinue with the removal of the Podein building.
July 2015
Major facility expenses–broken air handling shaft and A/C condenser unit replacement costs will be covered by the City.
July 2015
Groundbreaking Event held on July 7th for New Center.
July 2015
New Name for New Center Announced–125 LIVE.
August 2015
City Council Approves MOU with the Center & approves another $1.7M for the project construction.
August 2015
Board approves final version of MOU with City of Rochester
September 2015
Board reconfirms and supports keeping 125 LIVE as New Center name.
October 2015
Board approves bringing on Beth Witt as a consultant to assist preparing for the new center move-in.
October 2015
Board approves refinancing the Podein property loan with Sterling State Bank.
November 2015
Board Campaign for New Center Capital Campaign ends. 100% participation achieved.
November 2015
Membership Kick-off Event held for the Membership portion of the New Center Capital Campaign.
November 2015
Out-of-Area membership option approved.
December 2015
Computer Volunteer Team voted and decided to drop its association with the national SeniorNet program.
December 2015
SeniorNet Computer Program volunteer team voted and new name for the program will be Adult Technology Learning Center, Rochester, MN
November 2016
125 LIVE Center opens with 497 members.
June 2017
125 LIVE Art Gallery opens with 6 gallery spaces
September 2017
Social Membership for people ages 18-49 added RNeighbors and Rochester Park & Rec adapative sports program both take up residency at 125 LIVE.
October 2017
The City of Rochester buys the Podein Building from Senior Citizen Services/125 LIVE
November 2017
One year after opening, 1,456 members
February 2018
Sally Gallagher submits her resignation after 29 years as Executive Director
March 2018
Sylwia Bujak Oliver named Operations Director to lead 125 LIVE while the Executive Board searches for a new Executive Director.
August 2018
Sylwia Bujak Oliver officially named new Executive Director of 125 LIVE.
January 2019
The woodshop opens at 125 LIVE
March 2020
125 LIVE facility closes after the Governor issues at statewide shelter-in-place order due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
April 2020
The Governor’s stay-at-home order is extended for another two weeks; facility remains closed. “Curbside services” are allowed outside, with a maximum of 9 people who are all at least 9 ft. apart.
May 2020
“COVID-19 Preparedness Plan” is developed in anticipation of reopening the facility safely. Social programs can re-open at 50% capacity, but no Fitness programs open yet.
June 2020
Fitness programs re-open at 25% capacity or 150 people max in the facility, per the Governor’s orders. Masks required by all participants, as well as temperature checks before entering the facility.
September 2020
Schools still on distance learning; 125 LIVE Learning Pods Program launched for elementary-aged children to help with math and reading on Wednesdays from 1-3 pm.
October 2020
“Trunk-or-Treat” outdoor Halloween event held in 125 LIVE parking lots for local family; a huge success Sunday Brunch started for fitness members who scan in at least 12 times per month.
November 2020
Due to the rapidly rising number of COVID-19 cases, the Governor again orders all gyms to close
December 2020
350 curbside meals distributed to members for New Year’s Eve Facility re-opens with regular hours on Dec. 19; still no fitness classes allowed, but fitness center is open. Exercise equipment is spread out to allow for 6 ft. distance and masks are required. Maximum of 10 people (2 households) may gather for social programs; masks must be worn at all times. No indoor food consumption allowed.
January 2021
Fitness classes resume with a maximum of 25 people per class, at 9 ft. distance apart. Facility remains at 25% capacity or 150 people max in the facility. Pool re-opens with a maximum of 10 people; masks not required in the pool
May 2021
Though the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Governor removes all restrictions on fitness facilities, thanks to the availability of vaccines.
November 2021
Food Pantry opens at 125 LIVE for those struggling with food insecurity.
April 2022
Senator Amy Klobuchar hosts roundtable discussion at 125 LIVE, focusing on fraud against seniors.
July 2022
125 LIVE begins hosting congregate senior dining, sponsored by SEMCAC and SEMAAA. Over 475 meals are served to area seniors the first month.
August 2022
4,800 Members
August 2022
Hosted Bridge Opening Party for the re-opening of the Elton Hills Drive Bridge
August 2022
Began partnership with University of Minnesota – Rochester (UMR)
August 2022
Won Community Votes for Boxing, Personal Training, Yoga, and Billiards
September 2022
Agreement with the City of Rochester signed
October 2022
Received $20,000 donation from Carl Westphal to be used to raise matching funds towards the Cafe Space (Unfinished Space)
November 2022
Began partnership with Senior Planet to educate seniors about technology.
April 2023
Held 125 LIVE Senior Prom with the Rockin’ Hep Cats
July 2023
Received City Lifesaving Award for medical incident earlier in the year.
August 2023
Online Registration for 125 LIVE classes becomes available.
August 2023
125 LIVE won Platinum in 14 categories for Community Votes – Rochester, MN.
September 2023
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the Grand Opening of the Willow Room (formerly Cafe/Unfinished Space).
September 2023
Grand Opening of the newly remodeled Technology Learning Center (TLC) and the Centurion Room.
January 2024
Premiere of the 125 LIVE FAQ Video
January 2024
5,640 Members
August 2024
Outside Digital Sign installed.
August 2024
125 LIVE won Platinum in 15 categories of Community Votes – Rochester, MN.
August 2024
First Legacy Luncheon Event held.
October 2024
Outdoor Pickleball Courts finished.