Newsletter - May 2024

Volunteers sing along to We Are the World during our Volunteer Appreciation dinner in April.

When I was but a young lad, so full of promise and yet so shy of achievement, I worked for an organization doing outdoor education. These were great and formative years in my life, when I learned about myself and how to work well with others. My boss during those years — or actually my boss’s boss, since I was definitely on the bottom of the authority ladder — was a man who liked poetry as I do. At one staff training event, around a campfire, he recited from memory the incredible Alfred Tennyson poem Ulysses.

It was my first time hearing that poem, and I was thunderstruck by the power and imagery of the language. Have you read it? It’s not too long, so I recommend looking it up and seeing if it speaks to you. I’d like to quote the last few lines, as I believe they serve well to illustrate an aspect of our work here at Senior Services for South Sound:

Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and tho’

We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek, to find and not to yield.

That last line serves as the motto of the Outward Bound organization, and yet it could very well serve as a minor chord of our own. As we age, and as we experience the loss of much, how do we retain our agency and achieve what we can? I love this sentiment, that we need not dwell only on what we lack, but focus instead on all we still have. I wrote recently about a hike I did that, while I could not carry the heaviest packs I once did, I am actually MORE than that young version of myself. I’ve raised two boys, maintained a happy marriage, and suffered many slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. In short, I’m resilient and strong of will.

Our Over The Edge fundraiser happens on June 29, and we are delighted to see so many seniors joining us to celebrate heroism and courage by rappelling off the top of a building to raise money for our mission. There is still room for you to join! We need financial support of over $1,000,000 each year to sustain our mission for seniors. Whether by going over this edge, or supporting one who is, you get the thrill of supporting our work, and showing folks that while perhaps much has been taken, much abides!

Brian Windrope Executive Director

Thank you to our Local Partners:

Volunteer Appreciation 2024

Our Volunteers Mean the World to Us!

On a beautiful Friday evening, we gathered at the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center to celebrate our volunteers with fun, festivities and amazing food. (That food though! Another round of applause for our Senior Nutrition Program who created the menu from top to bottom, we could feel the love you put into it and here we are weeks later still salivating over the deliciousness!)

Food aside, we gathered to celebrate YOU, our amazing volunteers. We honestly cannot thank you all enough for the incredible work you all do on a daily basis. We’ve said it numerous times over the month of April and countless more throughout the year, but, truthfully, our mission would not be possible without you!

To have most of you — we celebrated with about 150 out of almost 400 — in one room filled all of our employees with, well love. We see you all, we work with you all, but there was something about all of that dedication, tenacity and above all, compassion, stuffed together in a room where we all make a difference every single day. It’s cliche, but the power of you all coming together under one roof put such a feeling of tangible happiness in the air, all of us employees walked out of there overjoyed and giddy.

We’re not kidding, that clean-up was filled with laughter the entire time. Helped along by the high-pitched voices as we got rid of hundreds of helium-filled balloons, of course.

We may be a senior organization, but with your help, we get to go back to our roots: fun. Every day we help the seniors of our community thrive, but the heart? It comes from the heart. We never stop growing and we never un-learn how to have fun. You make us feel young. You make us joyful and excited to go to work with you.

Words cannot express just how thankful we are to every one of you.

Words also can’t express how sorry we are for your eardrums. Thank you as always to the Lower Your Expectations Prime Time Players for your travel-themed medley of music and hilarity!

To each and every volunteer who has lent a helping hand, shared a kind word, or simply offered a listening ear, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your dedication and generosity have touched lives, lifted spirits and made our community a better place. As Global Volunteer Appreciation Month comes to a close, know that your impact will continue to ripple through our hearts and minds for years to come.

Here’s to you, our marvelous volunteers. You are the heart and soul of our community, and we are eternally grateful for all that you do.

Volunteer of the First Quarter 2024

Mark Bockhorst is a man who doesn’t seek the spotlight, but by golly Mark, we’re going to celebrate you!

When we ambushed Mark during his morning coffee bar shift at the Olympia Senior Center, he was in shock. Imagine going about your day when all of a sudden a group of around ten employees — the Executive Director included! — appear before you with massive smiles and thrusting a card at you. In spite of his surprise, Mark accepted our congratulations with grace and a repeated litany of “you didn’t have to do this.” He’s so against making a “fuss” over his achievement that he apparently, according to a reliable source, begged for his congratulatory slide at the volunteer appreciation dinner to be taken down!

Don’t let his shy demeanor fool you though. Mark is described as one of the kindest, most humble people you will ever meet.

“He is the most considerate of human beings, always kind, always willing to go above what is expected,” one of his nominators said. “He sweeps the floor, serves coffee with warmth and gentle humor, and when one of our friends doesn’t show up for a while, he calls me to ask if I have seen them.”

Mark told us that he’s “having a blast” volunteering. Well, Mark, we’re having a blast having you volunteer with us! Congratulations Mark!

Employee of the First Quarter 2024

Sandee Peabody is a shining light of compassion and joy at the Olympia Senior Center.

Sandee is a cornerstone of the Senior Nutrition Program and we’re so excited to announce that she has been named our Above & Beyond Employee of the First Quarter!

“Sandee is a POWERHOUSE here,” one of her nominators wrote. “Her level of teamwork is second to none. She treats everyone with due respect, she is always reliable and accepts people where they are, for how they are. She is a joy to work with and simply being herself, she makes every day matter.”

I’m not entirely sure I’ve ever seen Sandee without a smile. She greets everyone who comes into the kitchen with a bright welcome, calling most by their name. (How she keeps all those names straight we’ll never know.)

Dedicated, hard-working, and always with a can-do attitude, this SNP employee time after time takes on challenges with heart, care and determination. Thank you so much Sandee for being an amazing co-worker and friend to all who enter our centers. Stop in for lunch at the Olympia Center Monday through Friday 11:45 am to 12:15 pm say hi and join us in celebrating this amazing person!

SHIBA

About SHIBA

Every month our SHIBA program (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors ) trained volunteers are available to help you understand the Medicare program.

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: April - June 2024 Approved Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans

“There’s no yearly open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. If you’re already enrolled in a Medigap plan, you may apply to buy or switch plans at any time. However, if you’re not currently enrolled in a Medigap but want to buy one, rules vary whether insurers may require you to pass a written health screening questionnaire. Not sure if you’ll need to take a health screening? Call our Insurance Consumer Hotline at: 1-800-562-6900. ”

Medicare

Fraud Prevention Week Begins June 3

SHIBA presentations in May (For presentations via Zoom, please register with our office at 360.586.6181 ext. 134)

New to Medicare via Zoom

• May 1: 11 am to 1 pm - Mason County New to Medicare

• May 16: 10 am to Noon - Welcome to Medicare

• May 21: 1 pm to 3 pm - New to Medicare

• May 22: 6:30 pm to 8 pm - Welcome to Medicare

New to Medicare Presentations: (In person, no registration necessary)

Welcome to Medicare Olympia Senior Center

May 8: 11 am to 1 pm 222 Columbia St, Olympia

Medicare 101 - Shelton

May 16: 11 am to 12:30 pm

Mason County Senior Activities Center 190 Sentry Drive, Shelton WA

Help yourself, and others, learn how to protect against scams by joining the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) for Medicare Fraud Prevention Week June 3 to 9, 2024.

It takes place the week of June 5, or 6/5, because most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65.

Senior Center Activities

OLYMPIA SENIOR CENTER

Speaker Series

Most Wednesdays at 10:00 am

May 1: Stephanie Penland, Senior Nutrition Program Director

Join Stephanie Penland, as she shares tips and tricks for saving money on fruits and vegetables. We may hear some recipe ideas, too!

May 8: Kristy Wilkins, PALS Fund Manager

Discover the heartwarming work of PALS with Kristy Wilkins! Learn how our Pet Assistance for Low-Income Seniors Program (PALS) fights isolation and loneliness by helping seniors care for their furry companions.

May 15: No Speaker Series

May 22: Marygrace Goddu, City of Olympia

Join Marygrace as she discusses Culture in Olympia! Marygrace will offer an update on the City’s work for a vibrant and thriving community through support for the arts, culture, and heritage.

May 29: Chuck Paeth, What Is It Like Going on an African Safari?

Have you ever dreamed of going on an African safari? Planning for a safari can seem daunting. Chuck will provide information to make your travel decisions easier.

For full presentation descriptions pick up a Speaker Series flyer at the reception desk!

Public Welcome

Explore Olympia Walkabout

Thursday, May 9 at 10:00 am

The Walkabout for May will find us taking an Intercity Transit bus to the State Capitol for a walk around the Capitol grounds! Things should still be in bloom, and the grounds are really quite lovely with views, trees, and statues! Meet at the Olympia Senior Center at 10:00 and we

will walk to the transit center (one and a half blocks from here) and we will grab a bus! Wear sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, please. Join this fun and diverse group as we continue to explore our local towns!

Public Welcome

Dine Out with the Olympia Senior Center

Thursday, May 9: Da Nang, 116 4th Ave SE, Olympia at 5:00 pm

Dine Out isn’t just a meal, it’s our monthly ritual of camaraderie with friends old and new. Secure your spot by May 6. We close reservations Monday afternoon to show our appreciation and respect for the restaurants that host us. Everyone pays for their own meal.

Public Welcome

Senior Reads Book Club

Thursday, May 16 at 10:00 am

Join us for an engaging discussion as we delve into The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas this May. Come to the Olympia Senior Center on May 16th at 10:00 for a cozy morning of book talk, shared laughter, and the chance to connect with fellow readers. Our book club meets every third Thursday at 10:00—everyone is invited to join us! Public Welcome

Senior Center Activities

LACEY SENIOR CENTER

NEW! Tech Help with Marianne

Thursday, May 2 from 10 to 11 am

Need tech support? Drop in and get help from Marianne! Whether it’s a glitchy tablet or a befuddling smartphone, Marianne is here to lend a hand. Don’t let those digital dilemmas hold you back—swing by and let Marianne untangle the tech for you!

Public Welcome

NEW! Conversaciones en Espanol!

Tuesdays from 2 to 3 pm ¡Hola amigos! Ready to spice up your language skills? Whether you’re a fluent speaker or just starting out, everyone’s welcome—even if you don’t know a single word! This isn’t a language class—it’s a vibrant opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish conversation. Don’t miss out!

Public Welcome

NEW! Best Rummage Sale on Earth

Saturday, May 11 from 8:00 am

Our Annual RUMMAGE SALE is here!

Early-Bird entry at 8 am is $5, but it’s FREE to Active Members (bring your card!). After 9 am, free admission to all! This is our HUMONGOUS annual event, known for COSMIC-sized bargains throughout the GALAXY, it’s even better than Jupiter’s blue-light specials! WHY PAY RETAIL?

Thrift is SMARTER! Got stuff? Please take your donated treasures to Olympic Moving & Storage, 935 Poplar, between 1 and 4 pm, M - F, through May 9th. Senior Services for South Sound truly appreciates your support! This is the one and only STELLAR Rummage Sale we are holding in 2024, so don’t miss out!

Public Welcome

Senior Driving Workshop for Ages 55+

Monday, May 13 from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm

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 with the Lacey Senior Center

Tuesday, May 14: The Brick on Trosper, 707 Trosper Rd SW, Tumwater at 5:00 pm

Join the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center for an evening at The Brick! 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! Scammed Recovery Group

Thursday, May 16 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm

For anyone who has been scammed. Explores the emotional impacts of being scammed and what you can do to stop blaming yourself. It includes ID, financial, and romance scams, shame, anger at self and scammers, anxiety and fear, grief, depression, relationships, selfcare and healing. A great resource for those who have been in these situations - let’s move from scammed to superpowered!

Public Welcome

TED Talks Plus with Jay Wallerstedt

Friday, May 24 at 12:30 pm

Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP): What Are They and What Can They Do? We’ll view three TED Talks Plus videos and discuss them as a group.

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

SENIOR HOUSING EXPO 2024

SATURDAY, JUNE 8 10 AM - 2 PM

Volunteer Spotlight: Zia Brooks

Zia Brooks is the epitome of a perfect volunteer. She loves the Olympia Senior Center, she loves the Meals on Wheels Program, she loves volunteering, and she loves meeting all the different people who use the program. She really enjoys her “job” even at the ripe young age of 79 and 1/2!

She started delivering meals in 2012, a couple of years after retiring as an advertising copywriter and account executive with past experiences in Washington DC, Denver, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. She volunteered until 2015 when she took a break to travel. She’s been in Central America – even thought of moving there but it was too far away from the kids – and all over Europe. In her younger days, she even toured Europe while sleeping in a VW Bus!

In 2018 she received a call from a friend at Senior Services who told her about a shortage of volunteers and whether she would be willing to volunteer again to deliver meals. And the rest is history! She now works every Wednesday. That’s it. Just one-half day a week.

They no longer deliver hot meals. Due to an overwhelming request from the seniors who prefer to choose the time they eat their meals, vs. having to eat lunch at 10 am. She now has a route of about 12 people she delivers meals to, and at each stop, she’ll deliver 1-2 week’s worth of frozen She makes sure she can greet the little dogs, give ‘em doggie cookies, and stop and talk for a short time with each client.

As part of the Meals on Wheels Program, she was selected to escort actress Linda Evans, who wanted to meet and talk with some of the program’s clients. She’s also promoted fundraising efforts by appearing in videos and photographs with clients. She’s even gotten involved in public relations, extensive customer service, problem-solving, and complaint resolution.

The real requirement for her job is to bring a happy face, a great attitude and a big smile to each of her clients. There have been occasions where she’s had to call 911 for them to come help up someone who has fallen, but for the most part, it is simply a great way to spend your time!

Zia tells me there are many opportunities to volunteer at Senior Services there is something for everybody. All you need to do is call Volunteer Manager Theresa Ziniewicz at 360-586-6181 ext. 120, or email her at theresaz@southsoundseniors.org. Theresa would love to talk with you about the many opportunities available that will fit what you are looking for, or be a perfect match for your

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.

Celebrating Diversity

As we celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and identities that make our world vibrant and unique, we’re honored to acknowledge the significance of various heritage and awareness months. From Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to Mental Health Awareness Month, Indian Heritage Month to Jewish Heritage Month, and many more in between, each observance offers us an opportunity to recognize, honor, and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of our global community.

Join us in embracing and championing diversity in all its forms!

May 5: Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While it’s a minor holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations. Festivities often include parades, music, traditional Mexican cuisine, and cultural events.

May 5: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day)

Yom HaShoah, also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, is observed annually to honor the memory of the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. On this solemn day, communities around the world come together to commemorate the lives lost during one of the darkest periods in human history. Ceremonies often include candle lighting, prayers, readings and survivor testimonies, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembrance, education, and the vow of “Never Again.”

May 17: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

IDAHOTB is observed to raise awareness of discrimination, violence and stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide. Established in 2004, the day serves as a rallying cry for equality and human rights for all regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

Celebrating Diversity

May 19: Malcolm X Day

Malcolm X Day honors the life and legacy of Malcolm X, a prominent civil rights leader and advocate for Black empowerment. Born Malcolm Little, he rose to prominence as a charismatic and influential figure in the struggle for racial equality and social justice. On this day, communities commemorate his contributions through educational events, discussions and reflections on his teachings. Malcolm X Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racism and inequality, inspiring individuals to continue his legacy of activism and empowerment.

May 21: World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

World Day for Cultural Diversity celebrates cultural richness and promotes dialogue for development. Established by the UN, it highlights the importance of embracing diversity for peace and social cohesion. Through events and initiatives, communities worldwide foster appreciation for different cultures and promote inclusivity.

May 23: Vesak (Buddha Day)

Vesak, also known as Buddha Day, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. Celebrated by Buddhists worldwide, it typically involves meditative practices, offerings at temples, acts of kindness, and illuminated processions, all reflecting Buddha’s teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and enlightenment.

May 30: World MS Day

An annual observance that aims to promote understanding of the condition, support those living with MS and advocate for better treatments and research. It brings together the global MS community to share stories, promote awareness and fight for everyone impacted by multiple sclerosis.

Trips & Tours

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE PARAMOUNT

THEATER

Thursday, May 23

#42415

First opened in 1928, The Paramount Theater was given a 20 million dollar restoration in 1995, bringing it back to its original splendor. Join us on a private tour throughout this beautiful Seattle landmark. On our tour, we’ll learn about the technical workings of the stage, backstage operations, the history of the lobby, and of the historic theater building itself. This is your chance to see behind the scenes!

After our tour, we’ll visit the Frye Museum, a beautiful museum in the heart of the First Hill neighborhood. We’ll have an opportunity to wander the well-curated collection of 19th and 20th-century art as well as art from contemporary global artists.

We’ll start our adventure with an early lunch at the iconic Cheesecake Factory.

$119 Members; $139 Non-Members

Includes transportation, all ticket admissions and fees, lunch and snack.

Bus leaves Olympia at 8:30 am; Lacey at 9:00 am

Approximate return: 5:30 pm

LEMAY AT MARYMOUNT PRIVATE TOUR

Wednesday, May 8

#42414

Embark on a journey through automotive history with our day trip to the renowned LeMay Car Collection at Marymount.

This private tour promises an unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The historic Marymount campus, home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of vintage automobiles in the world is an experience like no other.

Our private docent-led tour will take us through exhibit halls filled with meticulously restored vehicles, ranging from early 20th-century classics to sleek sports cars and everything in between. This 2.5-hour extended tour also includes an exclusive visit to The White Building Garage, the working garage for the LeMay Collection.

After an informative and fun tour, we’ll cruise over to a beloved restaurant and pub for lunch.

$99 Members; $119 Non-Members

Includes transportation, all ticket admissions and fees, lunch and snack.

Bus leaves Olympia at 9:00 am; Lacey at 9:30 am

Approximate return: 3:00 pm

Trips & Tours

DISCOVER THE ISLANDS OF NEW ENGLAND

May 9 - 16, 2025

The Atlantic coast is calling. Explore New England’s majestic seaboards, from Rhode Island to Cape Cod. Visit Providence and the Gilded Age mansions of Newport. Experience the beautiful islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Complete your local experience as you indulge in a traditional seafood and lobster feast. Explore the local charms, walk along historic cobblestone streets, and feel like a true New Englander.

$3499 double occupancy; $4299, single

SPOTLIGHT ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA

September 4 - 12, 2025

Uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches and elegant allure that attracts the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur. Spend time in the fairy-tale principality of Monaco. Discover the opulence of Villa Ephrussi v Rothschild and Gardens. Get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous in Cannes. Watch artisans create fragrant perfumes. Enjoy leisure time to explore on your own. It’s time you lived a little bit of the good life.

$4,999 double occupancy; $6599 single