Donna and Jenny help put together an ongoing puzzle project at the Olympia Senior Center.
Senior Services for South Sound
Brian’s View
A Message From the Executive Director
Many of you know that poetry forms a central pillar of my life. There are countless ways I rely on poetry to shape, inspire and guide my understanding of myself and the world. For this October newsletter, I’m dedicating this space to sharing three of the many poems that I find relevant to the work of Senior Services. Perhaps they will inspire or delight you too!
These poems are old friends that live in my mind, and always elevate my spirit. I leave it to you to consider how they matter to our mission to improve the quality of life for people as they age.
may I be gay
may my heart always be open to little birds who are the secrets of living like every lark whatever they sing is better than to know who lifts his life and if men should not hear them men are old
from all the dark
may my mind stroll about hungry who wings his why and fearless and thirsty and supple and even if it’s sunday may i be wrong beyond because for whenever men are right they are not young and sings an if and may myself do nothing usefully of day to yes and love yourself so more than truly there’s never been quite such a fool who could fail pulling all the sky over him with one smile
E.E. Cummings
E.E. Cummings
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And both that morning equally lay And sorry I could not travel both
In leaves no step had trodden black. And be one traveler, long I stood Oh, I kept the first for another day! And looked down one as far as I could
Yet knowing how way leads on to way, To where it bent in the undergrowth; I doubted if I should ever come back.
Then took the other, as just as fair, I shall be telling this with a sigh And having perhaps the better claim, Somewhere ages and ages hence: Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— Though as for that the passing there I took the one less traveled by, Had worn them really about the same, And that has made all the difference.
Robert Frost
Brian Windrope, Executive Director
An Evening in
Fall Gala
Saturday, October 26
Olympia Senior Center
5 pm
Join us for our biggest fundraising event of the year!
This year we’re taking you out to An Evening in Tuscany where we’ll celebrate the spirit of togetherness and community.
Your support can make a world of difference—whether it’s purchasing a ticket to enjoy an unforgettable evening, volunteering to help make the event a success, or donating high-quality auction items (minimum value of $200) and wine (minimum value of $20). Every contribution helps us continue our vital programs for seniors in our community.
Be part of this special night and help us make a lasting impact!
Brighter Days Celebrates The Cherokee National Holiday
Ann Suagee-Payne, a member of the Cherokee Nation and a beloved volunteer at our Brighter Days program, recently gave an engaging presentation about the Cherokee culture and The Cherokee National Holiday celebrated over Labor Day weekend. She shared the historical significance of the holiday, emphasizing its roots in the Cherokee’s journey of survival, including their forced removal along the Trail of Tears. Despite the hardships endured, the Cherokee Nation emerged with a renewed sense of identity, reflected in the creation of the constitution that now guides their government and traditions.
Ann described how the modern-day holiday is filled with activities that blend both traditional and contemporary elements. Attendees enjoy cultural demonstrations such as traditional dances, stickball games, and storytelling, as well as more modern events like parades, concerts, and a 5K race. Food is another big highlight, with favorites like frybread and Cherokee bean bread being served.
Through her presentation, Ann highlighted how the Cherokee National Holiday not only connects participants to their heritage but also provides an opportunity for education and unity across all generations.
The Cherokee National Holiday, celebrated annually in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, marks the signing of the Cherokee Nation’s Constitution in 1839. For over 70 years, this gathering has brought together Cherokee citizens and visitors from around the world to honor the resilience, culture, and unity of the Cherokee people. It serves as both a remembrance of the tribe’s storied past and a celebration of its thriving present.
Senior Services for South Sound
Volunteer Spotlight: Barbara Underhill
By Scott Schoengarth
Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Barbara Underhill worked in the medical field helping monitor people’s hearts, work she found quite rewarding. When she and her husband retired, they moved to Portland, Oregon and eventually moved to Lacey for good in early 2021.
It was her granddaughter who talked her into stopping at the Lacey Senior Center, just to see what it was all about. She immediately went to work in the kitchen making meals for the Meals and Wheels Program. She had always loved to cook and bake, so the job was perfect for her. She eventually switched to the Lacey Coffee Bar where she serves beverages and baked goods donated by members. She likes working at the coffee bar because it gives her the chance to talk and meet with so many different people.
On occasion she has worked in other parts of the Senior Center, like the rummage sale and auction. She describes herself as a gadabout, which is defined as a person who flits around in social activity. So, the senior center is the perfect place for her to spend her days. She dislikes just sitting around and watching TV, and she loves the free parking at the Center!
Barb says working at the Center is FUN, and she would recommend it to anyone else who is retired and looking for something to do, something where you can help others and get to know so many new people. She’s been there now for over three years and loves every minute of it. And when her shift is done she enjoys walking around the many trails near the lake. It is so relaxing.
Scott Schoengarth 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.
Extended Travel Opportunities
Did you know Senior Services for South Sound offers extended travel opportunities that take you far beyond the Pacific Northwest? This fall, explore the charming seaboard of New England, from Rhode Island to Cape Cod, where you’ll visit the iconic Gilded Age mansions of Newport, stroll historic streets, and indulge in a seafood and lobster feast. Prefer a little more glamour? Unpack in the stunning French Riviera, where you’ll bask in the luxury of Monaco, explore the elegant resorts of Cannes, and embrace the opulence of the Côte d’Azur.
Whether you’re craving the coastal charm of New England or the sun-soaked elegance of the French Riviera, our extended travel options promise enriching experiences and unforgettable memories. With expertly planned itineraries, comfortable accommodations, and unique excursions, you can relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of planning. Join us for a chance to explore new horizons and connect with fellow travelers on these once-in-a-lifetime adventures!
Trips & Tours Hours
M/W/F 10:30 am3:00 pm
360.586.6181 ext. 126
southsoundseniors.org/trips-tours
Senior Services for South Sound
OLYMPIA WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
9:00 am to 10:00 am Advanced EnhanceFitness® $ 10:00 to 11:00 Gentle Yoga $ 9:00 am to 10:00 am Advanced EnhanceFitness® $ 10:30 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga 8:30 to 11:00 am Woodcarving
10:30 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga $ 10:00 to 11:30 am Current Issues 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Tech Help with Adam 12:30 pm Pinochle 9:00 am to 10:00 am Advanced EnhanceFitness® $
10:30 am to 1:00 pm Tech Help with Melinda 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Tech Help with Adam 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 12:30 to 2:00 pm Music Mends Minds 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Tech Help with Adam
12:00 to 3:00 pm Table Games 10:30 to 11:30 am Tai Ji Quan $ 10:30 to 11:30 am Gentle Yoga 1:00 to 2:00 pm Adaptive Creative Dance $ 10:30 to 11:30 am Tai Ji Quan $
12:00 to 4:00 pm Cribbage 12:00 to 4:00 pm Reader’s Theater 12:00 to 3:00 pm Table Games 2:00 to 4:00 pm Yarn Magic
12:00 to 1:00 pm World Geography: Come Explore! 12:45 to 1:45 pm Drop-In Meditation 1:00 to 4:00 pm Mah Jongg
1:00 to 3:00 pm Party Bridge 1:00 to 2:00 pm Chair Yoga $ 1:30 to 2:30 pm Beginning EnhanceFitness®
1:30 to 2:30 pm Beginning EnhanceFitness®
12:00 to 3:00 pm Table Games
1:30 to 2:30 pm Beginning EnhanceFitness®
BOLD = Senior Services for South Sound membership required to participate
$ = Class Fee associated with activity. Read full class description on our website at southsoundseniors.org/activities or in the Lifelong Learning Catalog
Dates and times are subject to change, call the appropriate center if you have questions about your activity. Olympia: 360.586.6181 or Lacey: 360.407.3967
Newsletter October 2024
LACEY WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
8:30 to 9:30 am EnhanceFitness® $ 8:30 to 11:00 am Woodcarving 8:30 to 9:30 am EnhanceFitness® $ 9:00 to 10:00 am Gentle Yoga $ 8:30 to 9:30 am EnhanceFitness® $
9:45 to 10:45 am EnhanceFitness® $ 9:30 to 10:15 am Zumba Gold $ 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Double Deck Pinochle 10:00 to 11:30 am Coffee and Conversation 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Pinochle
11:00 am to 12:00 pm Chair Yoga $ 10:00 to 11:00 am Mother’s with Estranged Adult Children Support Group 9:45 to 10:45 am EnhanceFitness® $ 10:30 to 11:30 Beginner Tai Ji Quan $ 9:45 to 10:45 am EnhanceFitness® $
11:30 am to 12:30 pm Beginner French Class 11 am to 12:00 pm Gentle Yoga $ 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Korean Elders 3:00 to 4:00 pm Advanced Tai Ji Quan $ 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Memoir Writing Class $
12:30 to 1:15 Beginner Line Dancing $ 12:30 to 3:30 pm Pinochle 11:00 to 11:45 am Chair Zumba $ 5:30 to 6:30 pm Zumba After Hours 12:30 to 1:30 pm Intermediate Line Dancing
12:30 to 2:00 pm
Advanced French Class 1:00 to 3:00 pm Needlecraft/ Tatting Group 12:30 to 3:30 pm Table Games 6:30 to 9:00 pm Ukulele Ohana 1:00 to 2:00 pm Sing Along with Brighter Days
1:00 to 3:00 pm Watercolor Group 1:30 to 3:30 pm Dance Socials $ 12:45 to 3:00 pm Fly Tying 1:00 to 4:00 pm Mah Jongg
1:15 to 2:15 Beginner Advanced Line Dancing $ 2:00 to 3:00 pm Conversacioñes en Espanol 1:00 to 3:00 pm Chess Essentials
2:30 to 3:30 pm Beginner Tai Ji Quan $ 2:30 to 3:30 pm Mixed Media Art 1:30 to 3:00 Intermediate Line Dancing $
3:30 to 4:30 pm Advanced Tai Ji Quan $ 5:30 to 6:30 pm Zumba After Hours
5:00 to 6:00 pm Tai Chi
See next page for more activities and events!
Senior Services for South Sound
OLYMPIA SENIOR CENTER
Low Vision Support Group
Wednesday, October 2
from 10:00
Discussion topics include low-vision services, new products, local community resources and letting go of fear and embracing life with confidence.
Public Welcome
Covid-19 & Flu Vaccination
Walk-In Clinic
Monday, October 7 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Free for Medicare recipients and covered by most other insurance companies! Bring photo I.D. and Medicare card or proof of other insurance. Clinic is sponsored by Samy’s Pharmacy.
*Kaiser Permenente not covered!
Public Welcome
Mothers with Estranged Adult Children Support Group
Monday, October 7 from 10:00 to 11:30 am
Mothers of estranged children (over 21) are encouraged to meet here to get support.
Public Welcome
ALS Support Group
Tuesday, October 8 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
This support group will lift up those struggling with ALS and those with loved ones living with ALS. Public Welcome
Death Café
Wednesday, October 9 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
Death Café is a casual, non-profit gathering where people come together to eat cake, drink tea and have open, agenda-free discussions about death, with the aim of increasing awareness of life’s finiteness.
Public Welcome
Explore Olympia Walkabout Thursday, October 10 at 10:00 am
We’re going to Tumwater Falls for a chance to catch the salmon running upstream! Meet in the lobby of the Olympia Senior Center at 10:00 and we will carpool from there. Wear weather appropriate clothing, sturdy walking shoes.
Public Welcome
Dine Out with the Olympia Senior Center
Thursday, October 10: Row, 208 State Ave NW 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 October 7. Everyone pays for their own meal.
Public Welcome
Senior Reads Book Club
Thursday, October 17 at 10:00 am
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim is a real pageturner, and our discussion is sure to be rapid fire and fun!
Public Welcome
Unforgettable Art with Maureen Wells
Monday, October 21 at 10:30 am
Explore art, themes, and learn about the times and stories of the artists with Maureen Wells! Public Welcome
Introduction to Backyard Astronomy Workshop
Thursday, October 24 from 1:00 to 2:00 pm
Join amateur astronomer Rich Pallechio for a one-day introduction to backyard astronomy! In this one-hour workshop, Rich will share his love of the stars, covering the basics of astronomy and what you need to get started.
Members Only
Newsletter October 2024
LACEY SENIOR CENTER
Brain Injury Alliance of WA Meeting
Tuesday, October 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm
For those interested in learning about brain injuries, along with others who may be coping with or caring for a person who suffers from one.
Public Welcome
Owning the Age I Am
Wednesday, October 2 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm
Come listen, learn and share. An ongoing discussion for persons in late life. Share what you are doing and learning, your joys and challenges. Learn more about the age you are.
Public Welcome
NW Gardening Group
Thursdays, October 3 & 17 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm
Perry McCoy is our Chess Master, but is also an INCREDIBLE gardener! He is facilitating this interest group.
Public Welcome
Dementia Caregivers Support Group
Friday, October 4 & Monday, October 7 from 12:30 to 2:00 pm
This support group will lift up Caregivers of those who have all forms of dementia, providing the type of support these unsung heroes need and deserve.
Public Welcome
Dine Out with the Lacey Senior Center
Tuesday, October 8: Mayan Family Mexican, 4520 Pacific Ave SE at 5:00 pm
Join the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center for an evening at Mayan Family Mexican! 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
Senior Driving Workshop for Ages 55+
Monday, October 14 from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm
Get your hot lunch here between 11:45 and 12:15. Join Gerry Apple in this interactive workshop covering topics such as texting, driving in bad weather, handling emergencies, freeways, reference points, and more. After attending, you may qualify for a 5 - 10% discount on your auto insurance over two years.
Public Welcome + Register in-person at the Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center or call the center + $20 Per Student
Open Book Club
October 16 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm
Come join a staff person from Lacey Timberland Library for a group discussion of what attendees have been reading/listening to lately. Bring at least one title to talk about, and leave with a list of recommendations!
Public Welcome
Death Café
Thursday, October 24 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
Death Café is a casual, non-profit gathering where people come together to eat cake, drink tea and have open, agenda-free discussions about death, with the aim of increasing awareness of life’s finiteness.
Public Welcome
TED Talks Plus
Friday, October 25 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
Topic: EndangeredWolves andWerewolf Legends. We’ll view three TED Talks Plus videos and discuss each of them as a group.
Public Welcome
Covid-19 & Flu Vaccination Walk-In Clinic
Monday, October 28 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Free for Medicare recipients and covered by most other insurance companies! Bring photo I.D. and Medicare card or proof of other insurance. Clinic is sponsored by Samy’s Pharmacy. *Kaiser Permenente not covered!
Public Welcome
Senior Services for South Sound
Special October Presentations
Speaker Series at the Olympia Senior Center
Maia O’Brien Winter Senior Academy Preview
Wednesday, October 2 at 10:00 am
Maia O’Brien, a Senior Academy instructor, will be giving a special preview of her upcoming winter classes, where she teaches Astrology and Creative Arts Therapies to help participants explore their inner selves and unlock hidden talents. In this engaging talk, Maia will introduce how her interactive sessions encourage personal growth, creativity, and self-compassion in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Join us for a chance to learn more about these unique, enriching experiences!
Speaker Series at the Olympia Senior Center
Identity Theft Workshop with Key Bank and Thurston County Chamber
Wednesday, October 16 at 10:00 am
KeyBank and Thurston County Chamber have teamed up to spread awareness about identity theft and internet safety. Join us for a workshop to arm yourself with knowledge and education to protect your identity!
Special Presentation Series at the Lacey Senior Center Scam Jam!
Thursday, October 17 at 12:30 pm
Consumer Protection Washington’s presentation will SAVE YOU TIME, MONEY, and DIGNITY. Once a sophisticated scammer attacks, you can be prey or a superhero-senior who knows not to fall for their convincing lies. If you or yours become prey, the cost is often enormous. Turn the tables on these thieves by attending this life-improving event!
Special Presentation Series at the Lacey Senior Center
Jay’s Creatures & Creations
Thursday, October 24 at 12:30 pm
Jay will share the many animatronic and digital creations he has crafted over 39 years, to include Gus the Ogre, Matilda the Witch, Gobbler the Goblin, and Santa’s animatronic workshop of Elves making candy canes and eggnog. Jay’s digital creatures not only have full animation, they are endowed with personalities as well - you’ll meet Gobbler who wants to herd potato bugs for example. Come early for a front-row seat!
Newsletter October 2024
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.
SHIBA presentations in October
(For presentations via Zoom, please register with our office at 360.586.6181 ext. 134)
care@southsoundseniors.org •
southsoundseniors.org/support ive-serv ices/care-connection
southsoundseniors.org • 360.586.6181
Volunteer of the Quarter: Emma Lou Fisher
By Theresa Ziniewicz, Volunteer Manager
Staff nominated and SMT voted, and full disclosure, this woman birthed me. I had no influence in this decision, our HR Director Tiffany confirmed the vote.
I will say that Lou has always been a champion of this organization, even prior to me working here. She made masks during the pandemic and sold them and donated the proceeds. She has supported the retail stores for years prior to working Reception at the Olympia site. She created a fundraiser for PALS and she brings snacks to the activities staff. She makes and sells Lucky Gnomes at Bingo with proceeds benefiting Activities. She has always been passionate about this place, donating dolls and bears to the annual auction (former business, Nana Lou’s Dolls & Gifts) and bringing my own grandmother here for coffee or lunch in the early 90’s. I feel so blessed to be able to share this part of her life with her. For me it’s “Bring your mom to Work Day”, every day!
Congratulations, Lou!
Thank you to our Local Partners: