December Newsletter 2023

Newsletter December 2023

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for people as they age.

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Brian’s View

Winter solstice is mere days away, and I’m one of

those who is always excited on December 22nd. The return of light begins! And yet, looking back on 2023, what a year it has been for Senior Services for South Sound. We celebrated our 50th anniversary in great fashion, hosting parties in both Lacey and Olympia that drew crowds, and had a great Fall Gala with our 50th theme as well. We could not be more grateful for all those people, YOU, who helped us help seniors over these past decades. We’ve come so very far, and yet there is not a complacent bone in our collective bodies.

Looking forward, I’m somber and excited to announce that 2024 will be a year we’ve chosen to dedicate toward battling Isolation and Loneliness. This will be our organizational theme for 2024. It is one of the vibrant colors of our mission to improve the quality of life for people as they age, and teasing out this color will let us appreciate what we already do and generate new ideas for battling this crisis.

Perhaps you have seen that the US Surgeon General came out with a report titled “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation.” It’s a crisis among people of all ages, with new research showing that it’s not just a bad feeling, but has dramatic health impacts that are equivalent to smoking, diabetes and severe obesity. Chances of cognitive disease go way up and life expectancy go far down. We’ve been on the front lines of battling isolation and loneliness since 1973, and yet the problem is worse now than then.

So as we celebrate the holidays and share good cheer, take a moment to appreciate what love and friendship you have in your life. Hug and laugh more and make the extra effort to engage. And please think about people you may know who are isolated or lonely, and consider reaching out with a kind wellness check, some gesture of warmth, or tell them about Senior Services for South Sound and our many programs and activities if they are lucky enough to be a senior!

Thank you to our Local Partners:

Brian Windrope Executive Director

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Volunteer Spotlight: Susan Page

Susan Page volunteers four days a week at the Lacey

Reception Desk, so she needs to know a little bit about everything that goes on at the Center. In October she celebrated her two-year anniversary at the Lacey Center.

While living in Oregon in her earlier life, she moved from Portland to Washington in 1959. During those 64 years she held many positions, including school teacher, Chevy car dealer, waitress and many other exciting jobs. To keep her busy she also has two grown children and a set of twin grandchildren!

When she applied at the senior center, she checked off lots of possibilities, but in talking with Lacey Senior Center Manager Jill Rector and Coordinator Jay Wallerstedt they decided the reception desk was the best place for her. She started at one day a week, but soon asked for more hours, she’s now there every weekday except Wednesdays. And like other volunteers we’ve talked with, she also gets involved in the big events such as the 50th Anniversary celebration, bingo nights, and our Thanksgiving feast. Her waitressing background has come in very handy!

Why volunteer for Senior Services for South Sound? Well, civic-mindedness is the most common reason why people donate or volunteer their time. Research has shown that volunteering is associated with improved health and well-being, including increased longevity, adoption of healthy lifestyles and reduction in depression and stress.

The service that volunteers provide also goes on to benefit the communities in which they live and serve. Volunteering allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place.

Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people and organizations in need. All of this is just waiting for you at the Lacey and Olympia Senior Centers.

We’ve met all kinds of volunteers in this monthly newsletter column, and all enjoy volunteering because it is something that works for them. Most have worked, retired, and then have this void of time to fill in their lives. They all say that volunteering at the Olympia and Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Centers has made them feel needed again, and they’ve met so many friends along the way. It gives them a great sense of belonging, and offers a wonderful opportunity to meet and make new friends.

If you’re sitting at home reading this newsletter, and you’re thinking that YOU could volunteer a couple of days a week, Senior Services for South Sound can use you. Contact Theresa at 360.586.6181 ext. 120, email her at southsoundseniors.org/volunteer, or drop by the Lacey Center and talk to Jill or Jay. They all would be happy to talk about the many volunteer opportunities they have just waiting for you! That’s what Susan did and she’s never regretted it. Stop by the Lacey receptionist desk and talk with her. I’m sure she’ll convince you to volunteer.

-Scott Schoengarth

Scott is the coordinator for the Bus Buddy Program of Thurston County, a partnership between Intercity Transit, Catholic Community Services of Wester Washington, Volunteer Services and Washington State Department of Transportation. He can be reached at 360.688.8832. southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Diversity runs deeper than skin; it embodies the rich differences

in ethnicity, cultures, identities, experiences and so much more. Senior Services celebrates the beauty that each individual brings and shares in the honor of learning about people from all walks of life. Each month, we will try to showcase a special menu to gain a better understanding and appreciation for those with which we share our world.

Join us for December celebratory meals!

Olympia Senior Center: Monday through Friday from 11:45 am to 12:30 pm Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center: Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 12:15 pm December 7 - Hanukkah: Borscht with sour cream latkes (pancake), challah rolls, apple compote,

vegan chocolate cake December 13 - Holiday meal: Check in at your site of choice for a special holiday meal!

December 28 - Jerk chicken, jollof rice, collard greens, sour cream pound cake, oranges

Senior Services for South Sound wishes everyone a happy, merry, festive, joyful holiday season!

We will be closed: • December 25 • December 26 • January 1

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Hanukkah, December 7 through 15

Hanukkah (also spelled Chanukah) is the Jewish Festival of Lights. This eight-day celebration marks the victory of the Maccabees over the Selecidian King Antiochus who had made it illegal for those in present-day Israel to practice Judaism. After recapturing Jerusalem’s Holy Temple the Maccabees searched for pure oil with which to light the Temple menorah. They found just enough to burn for one day, but miraculously it burned for eight.

Hanukkah is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah and enjoying oily foods like sufganiyot and latkes.

Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe, December 12

Our Lady of Guadalupe in English, this Mexican Catholic festival commemorates the story of Juan Diego who convinced the archbishop of Mexico City to build a large church when the Virgin Mary appeared on his cloak. Today, the Basilica of Our Lady Guadalupe stands as a testament to the tale and even keeps Juan Diego’s cloak as a relic, it is said the Virgin Mary’s image is still visible on the cloak today.

Celebrations usually include a time of prayer and fanfare, dance presentations, parades and fireworks, and food.

Yule, December 21

Yule is a pagan celebration of the winter solstice, which marks the longest night of the year and therefore the return of the sun. Because of this meaningful shift in seasons, the overall theme of Yule is about rebirth and renewal.

Yule celebrations include reflection, decorating the home with aspects of nature, a Yule log ceremony, feasting and lots of lights (candles and bonfires, even string lights).

Christmas, December 25

A celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus, traditionally celebrated on December 25 by most Western Christian churches.

Celebrations may include attending church services such as Midnight Mass, holiday parties, the exchanging of gifts and feasting.

Kwanzaa, December 26 through January 1

Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that reflects the best of African thought and human dignity founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa is a practice of reaffirmation, and during this holiday, families and communities organize activities around the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles) including Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith).

Celebrations include feasting, music, dance, poetry, narratives, and reflection. southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Classes, Services & Activities OLYMPIA SENIOR CENTER Dance As You Are Party!

Thursday, December 7 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm Come on down and dance with us! Partners are not necessary, but good manners are!

This is a new event that will be held on the first Thursday of every month.

Public Welcome

Explore Olympia Walkabout

Thursday, December 14 at 10:00 am In December we will drive to the Eastside, and take a tour of the Olympia Armory Creative Campus. We will then meander through the surrounding neighborhood, and see some lovely places. Please wear sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. There will be hills in the neighborhood, and likely many tricky sidewalk crossings, etc, so please plan accordingly. Looking forward to exploring more of Olympia with our hale and hearty walkers!

Public Welcome

Dine Out - For Olympia Senior Center

Thursday, December 14: Octapas Cafe, 610 Water St SW, Olympia at 5:00 pm Join us at Octapas for our monthly Dine Out! Meet at the restaurant at 5:00 for what will surely be a fun evening of conviviality and good food! Everyone pays for their own meal, but the camaraderie is free! Your reservations for Dine Out must be made NO LATER than 2:00 pm the Monday of the week of Dine Out. If we do not have your reservation by Monday at 2:00 the week of, we will not reserve you a spot.

Public Welcome

Senior Reads Book Club

Thursday, December 21 at 10:00 am There will be no book to read this month.

Instead, we’ll bring our own favorite books and quotes to share with the group. Everyone is also responsible for bringing an offering of food, whether traditional holiday foods or something entirely different, all offerings are welcome!

Please include an ingredient list for anyone that might have allergies or intolerances. Looking forward to another year of good books, good conversations, and good folks!

Public Welcome

Let the learning begin!

Registration for winter quarter today! southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Classes, Services & Activities VIRGIL CLARKSON LACEY SENIOR CENTER Senior Driving Workshop for Ages 55+

Monday, January 8 | Registration begins December 4 Feel safer on the road! Join Gerry Apple in this interactive workshop covering topics such as texting, driving in bad weather, handling emergencies, freeways, reference points, what to do in the case of a collision and more! After attending, you will receive a certificate that can apply a 5 to 10% discount on your auto insurance over a two-year period. Space is limited at 15 students per class, so reserve your spot today!

Public Welcome + Register in-person at the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center or call the center + $20 Per Student

Bereavement Support Group

Friday, December 8 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm Special candle lighting remembrance.

Public Welcome

Dine Out - For Lacey Senior Center

Tuesday, December 12: El Sarape at 4043 Martin Way E, Olympia - 5:00 pm Join the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center for an evening at El Sarape! Meet at the restaurant at 5:00, where we will dine with good food and better company! Everyone pays for their own meal.

Public Welcome

Pet Support Club

Tuesdays, November 12 & 26 at 1:00 pm This club encourages seniors to adopt pets, support those who are fostering pets, and help Animal Services by collecting donations specifically on their “greatest needs” list! For seniors who love animals!

Public Welcome

Create a Death Journal

Thursday, December 14 from 10:00 to 11:30 am Come spend 90 minutes with Death Doula and Grief Coach Aypril Porter, creating your personal death journal.

Public Welcome

TED Talks Plus with Jay Wallerstedt

Thursday, December 28 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm “Future Cars: Electric? Hydrogen? Blood Batteries?” We’ll view three TED Talks Plus videos and discuss them as a group.

Public Welcome

Death Café with Glenn Harper

Thursday, December 28 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm What is a Death Café? At a Death Café people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death.

Our objective is ‘to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. A Death Café is a group directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes.

It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session.

Death Cafés are always offered: • On a not for profit basis • In an accessible, respectful and confidential space • With no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product or course of action • Alongside refreshing coffee, tea – and cake!

Public Welcome

To view the Life Long Learning Catalog and to read more about these offerings as well as others, please visit southsoundseniors.org/activities southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Coming in January!

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Senior Academy Classes Are Here!

Registration Begins December 4.

Northwest Nations: The Nature of Who We Are with Ron Johnson Fridays from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm | January 19 - February 23 | Via Zoom Registration Fee: Members - $100; General Public - $150 Explore the rich tapestry of our Northwest Nations through a dynamic and thought-provoking journey that delves into the heart of their unique peoplehood, integral stories, and inherent relationships with Nature.

Micro Social Psychology: Persuasion, Intergroup Conflict, Crowds, Masses and Movements with Bruce Lerro Tuesdays from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm | January 9 - March 12 | Olympia | Registration Fee: Members - $120; General Public - $180 In this course we will study what happens between groups and social institutions as well as what works and what doesn’t work in public and mass persuasion situations.

Designed to Thrive: Building Resilience with Mindfulness with Margo Benedetto Thursdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm | January 11 - February 29 | Olympia Registration Fee: Members - $100; General Public - $130 Each week we’ll study our brains, discuss our experiences and use guided, scientifically-based meditations to help with some of the biggest challenges of winter living, including eating and exercise habits, aches and pains, negative thinking and social isolation.

Introduction to Astrology with Maia O’Brien Thursdays from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm | January 4 - 25 | Olympia Registration Fee: Members - $60; General Public - $90 Join Maia O’Brien as she offers as introduction to the fascinating world of astrology. The basic foundations of astrology will be presented including planets, signs, houses and planetary cycles.

Energy and Climate Change: Understanding the Basics and Taking Action with Tony Usibelli Tuesdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm | January 30 - March 5 | Olympia Registration Fee: Members - $100; General Public - $120 Through a combination of lectures, short readings, and group discussion this class examines the essential causes and results of climate change, the nature of our fossil-fuel energy system, and the exciting work underway to increase renewable energy supplies, improve efficiency, and mitigate climate impacts.

Late Life Design I: Plan Your Time for 2024 and Beyond with Marty Worcester At Lacey Senior Center: Tuesday, January 30 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm At Olympia Senior Center: Wednesday January 31 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm Registration Fee: Members - $40; General Public - $60 Create a design for living. Together you will learn how others spend time in late life, as you create our own unique design.

Late Life Design II: Fine Tune Your Late Life Plans with Marty Worcester Wednesdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm | February 7 - 21 | Olympia Registration Fee: Members - $60; General Public - $90 Come together to update the designs you created in a prior Late Life Design class you took with Martha last year. In three sessions we will reset our sights on what we created in the past year.

New resources will be offered to fine-tune your plans. southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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December Speaker Series 10:00 am on most Wednesdays at the Olympia Senior Center.

Marty Worcester: Finding Joy in Giving and Receiving in Late Life Wednesday, December 6 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center Join Martha (Marty) as she explores the ways we give to and receive from one another in late life, whether it be material goods, money, or assistance in living.

A timely topic for the holiday season as we consider what to give and how we hope to connect with families, friendships, and communities now and in the New Year.

Donna Feddern and Caren Paintner: Falls Prevention Wednesday, December 13 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Seniors are at higher risk for a fall that could cause a severe injury, but the good news is that falls are preventable. Join us as our local Falls Prevention Coalition talks about the risk factors for falls and the health and environmental changes you can make to lower those risks.

Solstice Celebration!

Wednesday, December 20 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center Please join us for a quiet, reverent solstice celebration. Enter the room quietly (it will be dark) and take a seat. One at a time people will walk a spiral made of evergreen boughs, take a small battery tealight (no actual flame allowed), and then place it somewhere along the path. Then you will return to your seat, reflecting on carrying the light into the darker months, until the Summer Solstice.

Dr. Karen Hernandez Wednesday, December 27 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center Join Karen Hernandez as she discusses peace efforts on the ground in the Middle East.

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Reader’s Theater Presents

Join Our Free Webinar with June Weppler Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney

Tuesday, December 5 2:00 pm via Zoom southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Trips & Tours MEEKER MANSION HOLIDAY TOUR Thursday, December 21, 2023 #42363

*There is no elevator to the second floor.

We begin our day dining at Mama Sortini’s, in downtown Puyallup, for some delicious Italian fare. Next stop is the Meeker Mansion holiday tour – a delightful and festive experience that transports visitors back in time to the Victorian era.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to step into a bygone era, with each room exquisitely decorated to reflect the charm and opulence of the 19th century. Visitors can explore the mansion’s rich history while enjoying the enchanting sights and sounds of the holiday season, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a dose of nostalgia and holiday spirit. While at the mansion, you may decide you wish to take a break and enjoy some of the complimentary cookies and cider or visit the gift shop. We hope to see you there! $99 Members; $119 General Public Includes transportation, admission, lunch, and snacks Bus leaves Olympia at 10:30 AM; Lacey at 11:00 AM Approximate return: 6:00 PM

BROADWAY AT THE PARAMOUNT: THE BOOK OF MORMON Sunday, January 14, 2024

#42401

The Book of Mormon is a Broadway sensation that defies conventions and delights audiences with its irreverent humor, unforgettable songs and impeccable performances. Created by the talented minds behind South Park and Avenue Q, the musical tells the story of two young Mormon missionaries sent to Uganda, where their naive optimism collides with the harsh realities of the world.

The musical is a theatrical experience that pushes boundaries, challenges preconceptions and leaves audiences laughing and reflecting in equal measure. It’s a must-see for those who appreciate sharp, boundary-pushing comedy and outstanding musical performances.

Prior to the show, we will enjoy an elaborate brunch at “13 Coins” in Seatac. $279 Members; $299 General Public Includes transportation, brunch, snacks, and admission Bus leaves Olympia at 8:30 am; Lacey at 9:00 am Approximate return: 5:30 pm

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Trips & Tours TACOMA GLASS BLOWING STUDIO AND MUSEUM OF GLASS Friday, January 26, 2024

#42402

Whether you are a beginner or have attempted this artform before, a skilled instructor will walk you through the steps to create your very own piece of blown-glass art that will be yours to admire and share with your family and friends.

We will also be visiting the Tacoma Museum of Glass – a captivating institution that immerses visitors in the mesmerizing world of glass artistry. Nestled in the heart of Tacoma, Washington, this museum offers a unique and enthralling experience, showcasing the brilliance and innovation of contemporary glass artists.

Lunch on your own at Happy Teriyaki. $215/Members; $225 General Public Includes transportation, snacks, admission to both the Glass Blowing Studio and the Museum of Glass Bus leaves Olympia at 9:30 AM, Lacey at 10:00 AM Approximate return: 6:30 pm

ACTIVITY LEVELS Easy. Minimal walking, primarily flat surfaces, walkers ok.

Moderate. Walking short distances. Extended standing. Possibly uneven surfaces or a few stairs. No wheelchairs, walkers with approval.

More Difficult. Walking tours. Hikes up to 2 miles. Uneven surfaces.

Possibly one or more flights of stairs. No wheelchairs or walkers.

Keep your eye out for trip announcements on Facebook, by subscribing to our Trips & Tours newsletter and signage at our centers.

Call our Trips & Tours office for more information: 360-586-6181 ext. 126 or visit us online at southsoundseniors.org/trips-tours

Office Hours: M-F 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Olympia Senior Center 222 Columbia St NW, Olympia

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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SHIBA

Happy Holidays!

The Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors are here to help you understand your Medicare choices. Medicare’s Open Enrollment season ends December 7, our trained volunteers can help you understand your options for 2024. Please contact us at 360-586-6181 ext 134 and a volunteer advisor will return your call, usually within two business days, usually sooner. Our call volumes are high this time of year but we will get back to you if you leave a message on our phone line.

Monthly article of interest: Watch out for Medicare scams “Medicare scams are no joke. Victims’ identities can be stolen. The cost of scams, fraud and abuse can hit taxpayers for $60 billion per year..” -From the National Senior Medicare Patrol via the River Reporter.

SHIBA presentations in December (For presentations via Zoom, please register with our office at 360.586.6181 ext. 134 or email jrich@southsoundseniors.org) New to Medicare via Zoom December 6: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm December 19: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm December 21: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm December 27: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Senior Medicare Patrol-Prevent Fraud via Zoom December 7: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Get Help Paying for Medicare (MIPPA) via Zoom December 14: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Want to talk to someone directly? Here are some in-person options, no registration is necessary!

Olympia Senior Center Wednesday, December 13: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Wednesday, December 20: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Mason County Senior Activity Center (190 Sentry Drive, Shelton) Thursday, December 21: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Celebrating Diversity

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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Upcoming Bingos

Open to the public! Doors open at 6:00 pm. Must be 21+. $25 cash at the door to play. Also available: snack bar, 50/50 raffle, special game tickets & daubers. Enjoy a cash bar and costume contest! CASH ONLY.

2024 Bingo Dates Have Been Announced!

Stop in at either center for a full lineup.

southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

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