Newsletter - February 2024 by Senior Services for South Sound

Newsletter February 2024

Crystal Eleby receiving her prize for Best Dancer at the 70s Boogie Down Dance in January. southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

Brian’s View As you might guess I work closely with my Board Chair, who at

the present time is John Ficker. John is the Executive Director of the Adult Family Home Council. Board Chairs don’t usually have a work history with their organization, but many years ago John once ran our adult respite program, now called Brighter Days. He’s a tremendous resource to us in many ways. In our recent meeting, we discussed our 2024 Theme of Combating Isolation and Loneliness. We were exploring ways to incorporate discussion of this theme into our Board meetings. John suggested that perhaps one trustee at each meeting could tell a personal story of a family member or friend dealing with isolation or loneliness. He then told me a story from his time running our Brighter Days program that hits at the heart of the problem, and the solutions to it. The story goes that one day the program received a new client. This woman — let’s call her Irene — presented with the characteristics of cognitive disease. She seemed an eligible client for this day program that provides a stimulating environment of music, conversation, games and togetherness. Irene entered the program and participated normally for some time. Before too long, the staff began to notice that Irene seemed to have developed good recall of recent and past events. She seemed dramatically improved in her ability to track conversations. John and the staff finally decided to reach out to her family to report what they were seeing. In the end, Irene became the only known client to “graduate” from the Brighter Days program back to independent living. It turned out that she hadn’t been suffering from cognitive disease that is truly degenerative, but from cognitive impairment triggered by isolation and loneliness! The highly interactive nature of the Brighter Days program helps clients maintain as much cognitive ability as possible amidst these dreadful conditions. In Irene’s case, it was just the tonic she needed to regain her prior life. But with one big change: she kept coming back to the Olympia Senior Center for classes, cards and meals! Much to learn from this story, right?

Thank you to our Local Partners: Brian Windrope Executive Director

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

Shelton Community Dining

In the words of Cesar Chavez, “The people who give you their food give you their heart.” Nothing exemplifies this quote more than the staff of our Senior Nutrition Program.

They truly embody our 2024 theme of combating isolation and loneliness by putting their all into feeding hundreds of seniors every day. Now, after three years and a truly herculean effort led by Stephanie Penland and the SNP staff, our Community Dining Program is returning to Mason County! Penland says the return of the Community Dining Program is important because “we now have the opportunity to serve more seniors in more communities. Community Dining affords seniors a warm, safe place to engage with one another.”

Innagural meals served at Shelton’s soft opening in December.

On February 14, our new site at the Shelton United Methodist Church will officially open for lunch. This program will run just like lunches at the Olympia and Virgil Clarkson Lacey senior centers, and will be open Monday through Friday from 11:45 am to 12:15 pm. Until September 2020, community dining in Mason County Mel Schneider, Pastor Kelly and Beth operated out of the Mason County Senior Center. After parting Johnson working the check-in desk. ways, the program went on hiatus while we searched for a new location. Eventually, we entered into an agreement with the Shelton United Methodist Church. From there the behindthe-scenes work began — installing all new appliances, setting up the kitchen to our specifications and, not least of all, finding incredible staff members to further our mission. Under site manager Amanda Glaser and assistant Crystal Rodriguez, Shelton will follow the same menu as the Lacey and Olympia Senior Center except for “site choice” days. Please join us as we celebrate this amazing achievement and the opportunity it’s given us to share our hearts with you.

Crystal Rodriguez and Ilka Scott preparing for Shelton’s soft opening.

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

Vaccine Clinics

Age Ranges: 19 years and older Uninsured or underinsured only

Tuesday Feb. 6, 2024 2pm - 4pm

Available Vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax & Influenza

Thursday Feb. 15, 2024 2pm - 4pm

Registration encouraged, walk-ins welcome.

Olympia Senior Center Room A

222 Columbia St NW Olympia, WA 98501 Scan QR Code to Register

Need assistance? Call our vaccine helpline at 360-867-2610. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COVID-19 VISIT: THURSTONCOUNTYWA.GOV/COVID-19

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

Celebrating Diversity February is Black History Month Celebrated annually in February, Black History

Month is a dedicated period to honor and recognize the achievements, contributions and history of African Americans. The month is an opportunity to highlight the pivotal role African Americans have played throughout history, acknowledging their accomplishments in areas such as civil rights, science, literature, arts and more. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the diversity and richness of black culture. Black History Month encourages individuals and communities to reflect on the past, celebrate progress and actively promote equality and justice for all.

February 1: National Freedom Day

Commemorating the day President Abraham Lincoln signed a joint House and Senate resolution that later became the 13th amendment to the US Constitution that outlawed slavery in America.

February 7: Lailat al Miraj

Lunch Special: Chicken Vegetable Biryani, Shirazi Salad, Naan, Grapes Also known as the Night Journey, this spiritual time for Muslims commemorates the journey of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to the heavens. During this celebration, Muslims gather in mosques or homes to offer special prayers and recite verses from the Quran, engage in acts of charity, give time to self-reflect and seek forgiveness for their sins, and some may choose to fast on this day to show devotion and gratitude.

February 10: Lunar New Year

Observed throughout many Asian countries, Lunar New Year (chūnjié, or Spring Festival in China, Seollal in South Korea and Tê’t, which is short for Tê’t Nguyên Đán, in Vietnam) marks the start of the new year for those who follow the lunar calendar. Around 2 billion people worldwide celebrate Lunar New Year with celebrations, feasts and cultural traditions. This year marks the year of the Year of the Dragon which is said to represent good luck, justice, prosperity and strength.

February 13: Mardi Gras

Lunch Special: Shrimp Etouffee, Rice, Collard greens, Cottage Cheese with Peaches Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, comes from the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence. Mardi Gras is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday and is a festive day in which its origins are traced back to medieval Europe. One of its most iconic features is its elaborate parades all over the southern United States, the most famous being held in New Orleans, Louisiana.

February 14: Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent in western Christianity. Occurring six and a half weeks before Easter, Ash Wednesday is a solemn reminder of human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God and marks the beginning of the penitential Lenten season. It is commonly observed with ashes and fasting.

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

Employee Spotlight The results are in! Please join us in congratulating

our Above and Beyond Employee of the fourth quarter, Betty Conway (Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center Nutrition Site Manager) and Employee of the Year, Stephanie Elsass (Office Coordinator)! “She’s tenacious and hard-working,” said our HR manager Tiffany Keeth of Conway. “Betty is the epitome of what ‘together, we can’ is all about.” Conway was described in her nomination as running “a tight, but fun ship and for that she is invaluable.”

Betty Conway (center) with April Homon and Sharon Pileggi.

The same can be said of Elsass. Her nominator said that “there is not a day that goes by when Stephanie acquires and shares knowledge with members, volunteers and staff always followed by a jubilant “See how we learn?!” Nominees for Employee of the Quarter: Amber Kitchen, Rochester/Tenino Nutrition Kitchen Asst. Meghan Leishman, Development Assistant Bryan Hildebrand, Client Services Director Tobin Craig, Brighter Days Program Assistant Candy Braillard, Olympia Program Coordinator Mike Ziegler, Transportation Coordinator

Stephanie Elsass, Office Coordinator.

Nominees for Employee of the Year: AJ Titley, Marketing Coordinator Amber Kitchen, Rochester/Tenino Nutrition Kitchen Asst. Amy Lowe, Olympia Senior Nutrition Site Manager April Slee, Care Connection Program Manager Betty Conway, Lacey Senior Nutrition Site Manager Bryan Hildebrand, Client Services Director Candy Braillard, Olympia Program Coordinator Janis Rich, SHIBA Program Manager Meghan Leishman, Development Assistant Mike Ziegler, Transportation Coordinator Paul Taylor, Brighter Days Adult Day Program Manager Sandee Peabody, Olympia Senior Nutrition Assistant Site Manager Stephanie Penland, Senior Nutrition Program Director Sue Gallaghar, Inclusion Coordinator Theresa Ziniewicz, Volunteer Manager Tobin Craig, Brighter Days Program Assistant

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

SHIBA Happy shortest month of the year! Every month our SHIBA program (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors ) trained volunteers are available to help you understand the Medicare program. Did you know that if you missed your opportunity to change your Medicare Advantage plan by December 7, 2023 there is a second window to review your advantage plan options? Here is a brief description of Medicare’s Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) is the time when you can switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another, or switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan. The MA OEP occurs each year from January 1 through March 31, and changes take effect on the first of the month following the month you enroll. You can only make one change during the MA OEP. If you are new to Medicare or have been on Medicare for some time, feel free to contact us at our message line at 360.586.6181 ext. 134 and a volunteer advisor will return your call, usually within two business days, or sooner. The Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) are here to help you understand your Medicare choices all year long and, as always, our trained volunteers can help you understand your options for 2024 whether you are new to Medicare or a current beneficiary. 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 from Senior Medicare Patrol: SMP Sees Medical Debt Scams “If you get an unexpected call saying you owe money for medical services, be wary. Reports of phony medical bills and collection departments are on the rise. Receiving a call for a medical bill you don’t remember is a red flag.” Read about other red flags in a story from The Joplin Globe.

SHIBA presentations in February (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 February 7: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm February 15: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm February 20: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm February 21: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

New to Medicare Presentations: (In person, no registration necessary) Olympia Senior Center Wednesday, February 14: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Wednesday, February 21: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Mason County Senior Activity Center 190 Sentry Drive, Shelton (weather dependent) Thursday, February 15: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Get Help Paying for Medicare (MIPPA) via Zoom February 8: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm southsoundseniors.org • 222 Columbia St NW • Olympia, WA 98501 • 360.586.6181

Classes, Services & Activities OLYMPIA SENIOR CENTER COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Clinic

Tuesday, February 6 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm We’re teaming up with Thurston County to offer two FREE vaccine clinics at the Olympia Senior Center. COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines will be available for anyone age 19 and over and those who are under or uninsured. Registration is encouraged, but not required. See page 4 for more details. Public Welcome

Explore Olympia Walkabout

Thursday, February 8 at 10:00 am This month we will meet at the Olympia Senior Center and walk to Traditions where we will be given a tour by the lovely owner, Jodi Mackey. Afterward, if weather permits, we will walk around the lake. As many of you know we have canceled a couple of times due to weather and staff shortages. If the weather is questionable, call the Olympia Senior Center at 360.586.6181 or check our Facebook page for updates. Please wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. We’ll see you there! Public Welcome

Lunch Bunch (formerly Dine Out) for Olympia Senior Center

Friday, February 9: El Sarape, 955 Black Lake Blvd SW, Olympia at 11:30 am Join us at El Sarape for our first Lunch Bunch! During the darker winter months, we’ll meet for lunch to avoid driving at night. Everyone pays for their own meal, but the camaraderie is free! Your reservations must be made NO LATER than 2:00 pm the Monday of the week of Lunch Bunch. If we do not have your reservation by Monday at 2:00 the week of, we will not reserve you a spot. Public Welcome

Death Cafe

Wednesday, February 14 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. Public Welcome

COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Clinic

Thursday, February 15 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm We’re teaming up with Thurston County to offer two FREE vaccine clinics at the Olympia Senior Center. COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines will be available for anyone age 19 and over and those who are under or uninsured. Registration is encouraged, but not required. See page 4 for more details. Public Welcome

Senior Reads Book Club

Thursday, February 15 at 10:00 am Our book for February will be The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. Our book club conversations are always diverse, sometimes hilarious, and always interesting! Join us for conviviality and good books! 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

Classes, Services & Activities VIRGIL CLARKSON LACEY SENIOR CENTER NEW TIME! Olympia Bonsai Club

Thursday, February 22 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm Come learn with us about this 1,000-year-old tradition. All styles are welcome, whether you want to be traditional, delicate, rugged, or whimsical, the Olympia Bonsai Club is the place for you. Public Welcome

Senior Driving Workshop for Ages 55+

Monday, February 12 from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm 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

Dine Out for Lacey Senior Center

Tuesday, February 13: O’Barney’s Irish Pub, 4411 Martin Way E at 5:00 pm Join the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center for an evening at O’Blarney’s Irish Pub! Meet at the restaurant at 5:00 pm where we will dine with good food and better company! Everyone pays for their own meal. Public Welcome

NEW! Scam Jam

Thursday, February 15 at 12:30 pm Stick it to the scammers! Jam them up instead of falling for their greedy scams by attending this event with Consumer Protection Washington. You will also learn about Scam Tracker, so plan on not only avoiding scams for yourself but for your family and friends too. Public Welcome

NEW! Pictionary-Karaoke

Wednesday, February 14 from 12:30 to 2:00 pm Have you not heard about a team activity called Pictionary-Karaoke? It’s when teams of 2 people play against each other playing Pictionary while love songs are in the air, sung by seniors who (for the most part) have wonderful singing voices! Let this Valentine’s Day be one to remember due to sore facial muscles from all the laughter and smiling! Public Welcome

NEW TIME! Create a Death Journal

Thursday, February 15 at 11:30 am Come spend 80 minutes with Death Doula and Grief Coach Aypril Porter, creating your personal death journal. Public Welcome

NEW! Open Book Club

Wednesday, February 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm Attention readers and audio book listeners! Come join a member of the Timberland Library staff every month for a group discussion on what you’ve been reading and/or listening to. Bring at least one title to talk about and leave with a list of new recommendations! Public Welcome

TED Talks Plus with Jay Wallerstedt

Friday, February 23 at 12:30 pm “Love and Hate: ‘I Hate You.’ ‘I Hate You Too.’ ‘Would You Like to Go For Coffee?’” We’ll view three TED Talks Plus videos and discuss them as a group. Public Welcome

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

Speaker Series Free and open to the public! Nancy L: FITCUI® = Fitness + Cuisine Wednesday, February 7 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center A certified personal trainer, Nancy L., has degrees in Biological Science and Exercise Science, with extra work in nutrition. After retiring from the Pharmaceutical industry, Nancy obtained her ACE certification as a personal trainer. For 15+ years she has been teaching, providing health, nutrition and fitness guidance to individuals.

Maureen Wells: Unforgettable Art Wednesday, February 14 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Join Maureen Wells with her Unforgettable Art Program and share some lovely artwork and discussion. During the one-hour program six art prints are displayed which inspire interactive discussions and reminiscing. Artist’s biographies are highlighted.

Julie Ratner: Healing In Nature Wednesday, February 21 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center Awaken to the practice of healing in nature, Shinrin-yoku or “Forest Bathing.” Feel revitalized, connected and centered after a short meditation. Marvel at the discovery that trees are social, they communicate and nurture each other. Listen to a tree sing using my device that converts a tree’s electric signals into notes. We’ll tune into the sights and sounds of towering 1500-year-old trees under the canopy of a living forest that is a thriving ecosystem, a network of soil fungi, called the “Wood Wide Web.”

Heartsparkle Players: Stories of Imagination and Creation Wednesday, February 28 @ 10:00 am • Olympia Senior Center Join the Heartsparkle Players and the Thunders with guest singer, Meg Turk, for a morning of Playback Theatre. You tell real moments from your life and they play it back using music, movement and dialogue.

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

Volunteer Spotlight: Marc Harrison Volunteer Marc Harrison and I seem to have followed a parallel career path, at least for the last 2-3 decades. Interviewing Marc was like interviewing myself!

Marc worked for the state of Washington for 30 years. After stints in DSHS, the Department of Corrections and the Department of Agriculture, he ended up in the Department of Health (where I also worked). He spent most of his years with the state in the Human Resources Office until he retired. I knew Marc during those days, and we both retired in 2015. Turns out soon after retirement we both volunteered for the Reading Buddies Program in public schools before we both moved on to other programs. I ended up working for the Bus Buddy Program and Entertainment Explosion, while Marc eventually made his way to the Brighter Days Adult Day Program at the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center. Marc volunteers one day a week on Wednesdays. This leaves him time for the Reader’s Theater Unlimited group where he’s been an active member for several years. He researches scripts the group performs and even writes some of them. The group, which currently has about 13 members, will look at 13 to 14 plays before rehearsing four times a month. They then perform their chosen plays quarterly at the Olympia and Lacey Senior Centers, senior living communities and the Timberland Libraries. Every three months they may look at 13-14 plays before deciding which ones to perform. The Brighter Days Adult Day Program provides supervised care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, developmental

disabilities, traumatic brain injury and other cognitive issues. The idea is to keep these folks engaged so their in-home caregivers, often a family member, can have time to take care of their own needs. For at least five years now Marc has volunteered to give personalized support and be a part of a hands-on, compassionate adult day team. They work together under the guidance of Paul Taylor to provide a bright day of engaging activities while offering respite to the caregivers. It’s a real win-win situation for everyone! The program affords a day of fun — arts and crafts, demonstrations, group discussions, music therapy, physical games and exercise — in a safe and friendly environment. Marc says each day provides a different set of challenges, but he really enjoys it. With up to 14 clients on any given day, this can prove to be quite challenging, thus the need for additional volunteers. The program provides thinking, talking, conversation and exercises to keep all the clients active in the program. Each day the volunteers come in and Paul has already organized the day’s activities so they’re ready to go. Brighter Days, like many Senior Services programs, is always looking for additional volunteers to donate a half day or more to serve this cause. If you’re wondering what to do with all your spare time now that you’ve retired, why not give volunteer manager, Theresa Ziniewicz, a call at 360.586.6181 ext. 120 or email her at theresaz@southsoundseniors.org. -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

Volunteer of the Quarter: Jenny Watson Volunteer of the fourth quarter, Jenny Watson, is integral to great customer service at our Brighter Days program which provides supervised care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injury and other cognitive issues.

After a professional career in the Adult Day Care field she brings excellent experience and new ideas to our program. This last quarter of the year she has stepped into our Volunteer social worker role, helping our client families negotiate the journey of living with dementia. She also holds 2 support group meetings each month for people on the dementia journey. Other nominees for quarter four were: Tove Fischer, Linda Miles, Carmie Finigan, Tom Hall, Mark Bockhurst, Holly Maxim, Linda Walker, Val Burson and Vicki Winters. Thank you to all of our volunteers for the phenomenal work and dedication you put in every day. We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: Senior Services for South Sound would not exist if not for you!

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

Volunteer Opportunities Olympia Opportunities: Retail: (Budd Bay Bargains) 3.5 hours weekly Thursday afternoon is open! Customer Service, Merchandising, sorting donations. Reception: 4 hours weekly. Admin and computer skills needed. Fridays Senior Nutrition Program: 3-4 hours weekly, help our Kitchen team create delicious meals for our Weekly Congregate lunches and Meals on Wheels. Food Handlers required. Lobby Ambassadors: Greeter position to welcome all that enter our center and share needed resources to those who inquire 2-3 hours weekly. Inclusion: Assisting the Inclusion Coordinator with activities, crafts, afternoon bingo and fun for our members and guests with developmental challenges. 2-3 hours weekly SHIBA (State Health Insurance Benefit Advisors): Providing information by phone and in-person regarding Medicare, Medicaid and other government healthcare services. Additional training required. Flexible schedule.

Lacey Opportunities: Receptionists: 4 hours weekly phone etiquette and computer skills needed. Lobby Ambassadors: Greeter position to welcome all that enter our center and share needed resources to those who inquire 2-3 hours weekly. Inclusion: Assisting the Inclusion Coordinator with activities, crafts, afternoon bingo and fun for our members and guests with developmental challenges. 2-3 hours weekly

Brighter Days Registered Nurse: The Brighter Days Registered Nurse assesses participants’ health care needs, documents findings and recommendations and consults with program staff concerning nursing needs of participants, medically complex issues, health care policies and reviews participant ability to self – administer medications. Assists with training of staff in development of health care procedures and policies. Brighter Days: Working closely with clients who have dementia related diseases, providing entertainment and assisting staff with enrichment activities while giving much needed respite to their caretakers. Must have a current TB test! CPR and Food Handlers may be required. 4 hours weekly, flexible schedule.

Thurston and Mason County Opportunities: Transportation Drivers: Take seniors to doctors appointments or esstional errands. Flexible on call schedule based on availability

Ready to start volunteering? Contact Theresa Ziniewicz at: 360.586.6181 ext. 120 or go to: southsoundseniors.org/volunteer to fill out an application! Meet other volunteers and get a feel for positions you may be interested in by visiting us at the Olympia and Virgil Clarkson Lacey senior centers.

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

Trips & Tours MUSEUM OF FLIGHT Wednesday, March 6 #42405 Embark on a captivating journey through aviation history at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington. Nestled in the heart of the Emerald City, this extraordinary museum offers a unique and enriching experience for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Delve into the world of flight as you explore an impressive collection of historic aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits that showcase the evolution of aviation technology. From the Wright brothers’ pioneering aircraft to modern-day space exploration, the Museum of Flight promises a fascinating adventure filled with nostalgia, knowledge, and a profound appreciation for the wonders of the skies. Join us for a day of exploration, discovery, and shared memories at this renowned museum dedicated to celebrating the incredible achievements of humanity in the realm of aviation. This is a docent-led tour. Lunch is on your own at the on-site restaurant, Wing’s Café. $84 Members; $104 General Public Includes transportation, snacks, and admission to the museum. Lunch is on your own at Wing’s Café within the museum Departs: Olympia at 8:30 am, Lacey at 9:00 am Approximate return: 4:00 pm

IMAGINE MONET: THE IMMERSIVE EXHIBITION AT THE TACOMA ART MUSEUM Thursday, March 14 #42404 “Imagine Monet” is a celebration of the renowned French artist Claude Monet, a pioneer of the Impressionist movement. This exhibit promises to transport you into Monet’s vibrant and dreamlike world, where nature comes to life through his masterful brushstrokes. From iconic water lilies to charming landscapes, you will have the opportunity to witness the evolution of Monet’s artistry and gain a deeper understanding of his impact on the art world. Imagine Monet is the exhibition produced and created by the French directors Annabelle Mauger and Julien Baron, the world’s first directors of a digital immersive exhibition. Imagine Monet starts with the famous painting Impression, Soleil Levant (1872) and closes with the renowned Water Lilies series (1914-1926). This experience features over 200 well-known masterpieces by Claude Monet. Before this immersive experience, we will enjoy brunch at Le Sel Bistro in Tacoma. $129 Members; $149 General Public Includes transportation, snacks, brunch, and admission Departs: Olympia at 9:45 am; Lacey at 10:15 am Approximate return: 4:00 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.

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

Trips & Tours THUNDERBIRDS HOCKEY: SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS VS PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS Sunday, March 24 #42406 Join us as we venture into the world of ice hockey in Kent, to catch the regional rivalry of Seattle vs. Portland. The Seattle Thunderbirds are a major junior ice hockey team and are part of the U.S. Division of the Western Conference in the Western Hockey League. If you have never been to a live hockey game, you are in for an unmatched experience. You can really feel the excitement in the air with the cacophony of the sounds of skates, sticks, pucks, and cheers! The atmosphere at ShoWare is electric and consistently draws some of the highest attendance numbers in the Western Hockey League. $132 Members; $152 General Public Includes transportation, snacks, and a ticket to the game. Departs: Olympia at 2:30 pm, Lacey at 3:00 pm Approximate return: 9:00 pm

Call: 360.586.6181 ext. 126 Visit: southsoundseniors.org/trips-tours Or stop in: Olympia Senior Center 222 Columbia St NW, Olympia M-F 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Welcome to our new Trips & Tours Manager, Wendy Churchman! Wendy, who comes to us with an extensive background in planning trips for not only her family but various volunteer groups she’s worked with, describes herself as a “travel hobbyist.” She also has professional experience in customer service, community outreach programs and nonprofits. “I love that intersection of individuals and communities,” Wendy said. “It’s amazing how we find community through the things we feel connected to.” She said that she especially loves that the Trips & Tours program fosters that sense of community and encourages people to go out and try new things. “I’m excited to be joining this community,” Wendy said. “This group and program have so much passion, love and excitement. I’m ready to grow with this amazing group of people.” We’re so happy Wendy has chosen us to pursue her passion for travel and look forward to seeing what adventures she’ll take us on. Be sure to stay up to date on all Trips & Tours news — especially the imminent return of our Travelers Tea — by subscribing to the Trips & Tours e-newsletter, checking in at the T&T office and following us on Facebook.

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

Newsletter February 2024

Thank you to the Olympia Historical Society and

Bigelow House Museum for choosing us as one of this year’s recipients of the Gerry L. Alexander Annual Heritage Award for Outstanding Acievement. The Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum preserves and shares the history and heritage of Olympia and the Bigelow House in a way that recognizes and values the diversity and rich cultures that gave rise to our community, is inclusive of all persons and perspectives and informs and engages community members and visitors.

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