1. food and drink
2. food
3. candy and sweets

1701 22nd Street
Anacortes, Washington 98221
(360) 293-7473
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
NEWSLETTER
October 2014
INSIDE
THIS ISSUE...
Birthdays ........................... 16
We thrive with your support...
Computers .......................... 9
Attention all friends of the Anacortes Senior Activity Center! Our Foundation
Creative Expression ............ 9
Board will be sending a letter out soon to everyone on our mailing list, currently
about 400 people, asking for their continued support of the Center’s activities.
Every day that the Center is open, people come through the doors to enjoy all that
the Center has to offer. For many, the Center is more than a place to enjoy
activities and learn new things … it is a home away from home, a place to visit
loving friends and to enjoy a nutritious hot meal … to find joy, laughter, well-being
and a restored sense of self-worth. In short, it is a great place to be!
Donations.......................... 15
Games and Recreation ..... 11
Health and Fitness ............ 7
Intergenerational ............... 5
Language & Discussion .... 11
News and Notices ............ 3
Public Service Notices ...... 13
Services ............................ 12
Special Events ................. 2
Support Groups ................ 16
Trash Talk ........................ 5
Trips ................................. 5
Volunteers......................... 13
Wanted ............................. 15
In our recent survey, we received overwhelmingly positive feedback on both our
facility and our programs. We are fortunate to have many volunteer hands
pitching in every day to make the Center a success. But it takes more than hands
to make this special place work … it takes money. Financial support from folks like
you is needed to help make it all possible, from the coffee you drink to this
newsletter that you are reading. Every contribution is valuable and every
contribution is greatly appreciated. We hope you will join in making our annual
fundraising campaign a great success.
If you would like to be on our mailing list and
become a financial supporter of the Center,
please let Sally know. The Foundation is a notfor-profit (501)(c)(3) corporation and your
donation is tax-deductible. And if you would
like to include the Center in your estate
planning activities, we’d be happy to discuss
details with you. Thank you for support!
Candidates’
Forum on
Aging
Oct. 6
1:30 p.m.
ANACORTES SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER
SPECIAL EVENTS
1701 22nd Street, Anacortes, WA 98221
Phone: 360-293-7473 Fax: 360-293-7834
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Website: www.skagitseniors.org
Boooo Bash and
Halloween Luncheon
Come one, come all to the Boooo
Bash and Halloween Luncheon
on Friday, October 31. Musical
entertainment by Matt Audette
will begin at 11:00 a.m. Lunch
will be served at noon. The menu
will include:
 Vampire Bat Wings with Blue Cheese Dip
 Cemetery Potatoes and Broccoli Salad
 Cheesy Bones Breadsticks
 Sliced Apples and
 Under a Spell Red Devil Cake
There will be door prize drawings for those in costume and
in the costume parade. Reservations are required. Sign up at
the Reception Desk starting on Wednesday, October 1 or
call 293-7473. Come join in the fun!
Nonprofit Status
The Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation
holds 501(c)(3) status. Donations to the Anacortes
Senior Activity Center are tax deductible within the
limits of the law.
Senior Activity Center Staff
Sally Hill, Coordinator
Lea DeVere, Assistant Coordinator
Carolyn McManus, Nutrition Site Manager
ASAC Foundation Board
Jim Eberhardt, President
Debbie Savoya Vice-President
Michele Pope, Secretary
Susan Chenoweth, Treasurer
Charlie Drake, Nancy Halton, Jane Hyde, Carollei
Lamoureux, Jim O’Neil, Erica Pickett, Barbara Smart,
Bill Testerman, Gael Varsi
Elder Financial Abuse: A Crime
Meal Service
Lunch: Monday–Friday , 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
$3.50-$5.50 suggested donation. No reservation necessary. Meals on Wheels: For homebound seniors. Hot
meals delivered Monday through Friday; frozen meals
available for the weekend. $3.50 suggested donation.
Volunteer Opportunities
Join the 150+ volunteers working at the
Center. Contact Sally Hill for more information.
Newsletter
The Anacortes Senior Activity Center Newsletter is published monthly and is distributed free at the Senior Activity Center
and at a number of locations in town,
including the Chamber of Commerce,
Library, Senior Housing, and Island Hospital.
Contributors
Writers: Sally Hill, Lea DeVere
Editor/Layout/Production: Lea DeVere
Distribution: Kathryn & Lou D’Amelio, Leslie Krous,
Marji Odekirk, Elaine Oliphant, Lorraine Patmore,
George Strickert
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
On Wednesday, October 15, at 1 p.m. Eric Petersen will
talk about the issue of financial abuse of elders, identified as
a significant problem by the President, law enforcement
agencies and the State of Washington. In 2010, at least
4,500 vulnerable citizens in our state had their income or
wealth stolen or improperly taken from them. The problem
is only getting worse. Eric will define the term elder abuse
and describe typical perpetrators, scenarios and concrete
ways in which to avoid being abused. Eric is a retired, 28year-veteran of the Navy and now functions as a personal
wealth and portfolio manager. He is not affiliated with any
broker-dealer and no solicitations will be made.
Bake Sale
The Bake Sale will be back at the
Center on Friday, October 31, from
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come in and get
your fresh, delicious backed goods.
Homemade by our many faithful
bakers, these goodies bring much
enjoyment as well as needed funds
to help support the Center’s programs.
Page 2
OCTOBER 2014
Legislative Candidate Forum in
Anacortes:
Surf the
Age Wave
On Monday,
October 6, at 1:30
p.m. senior citizen
advocates including AARP Washington, ElderCare
Alliance, Washington Association of Area Agencies on
Aging, Washington State Senior Citizens’ Lobby,
Anacortes Senior Activity Center and Northwest
Regional Council (NWRC) are hosting a legislative
candidate forum dedicated to aging policy issues and
Washington’s readiness to meet the needs of the
growing numbers of seniors in the state. There will be
a brief presentation from local seniors, family
members, and consumer advocates, followed by a
moderated discussion with legislative candidates and
audience question and answer. Local candidates from
State Legislative Districts 10, 39, 40, and 42 have been
invited to attend. Contact Kim Boon from the NWRC
(676-6749) for more information.
Ukulele Workshop and
Old Timey Music Concert
There will be a ukulele workshop presented by
Seattle’s Canote Brothers on November 14 at 3 p.m.
The workshop will aim at players who are advanced
beginners through intermediate. The Canotes will
follow the workshop with a public concert of Good
Time/Old Timey music at 5 p.m. The Canotes,
identical twins with genetically matched voices (and
senses of humor) always have a good time, and so will
you. Their repertoire is firmly
planted in American Roots
Music, in the section labeled
“Quirky and Novel Songs.”
Ukulele, guitar, fiddle and banjo
are their instruments of choice.
The cost for the workshop is $25;
concert tickets are $15. Workshop
participants may pay $35 for both
workshop and concert.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
NEW!
Singing Group
Mondays, 3 p.m. See “Creative Expression” on page 9.
Flu Shot Clinic
See “Health and Fitness” on page 7.
NEWS AND NOTICES
Fire Drills
The Center holds fire drills four times a year. The next
one will be on Monday, October 6, at 10:30 a.m.
Everyone in the building at that
time will be notified just before
the drill begins. Once the alarm
sounds, everyone must exit the
building immediately. The drill
will take less than 15 minutes
from start to finish. If you have
any questions or want more
information, talk to Sally.
Hazardous Weather
Information
Please note that the Center may elect to close in case
of hazardous winter weather. For current and updated
information on any such closure, please listen to your
local radio stations, 660 AM (KAPS), 1430 AM
(KBRC), or 1340 AM (KWLE). If you call the Center
during regularly scheduled hours when the weather is
particularly hazardous, and the answering machine
picks up, you may assume there has been a change in
scheduled hours or emergency closure.
Captioned Movies Come to Anacortes
Anacortes Cinema is now showing their movies with
open captioning on Wednesdays, one time only, so
check their website or call to confirm which showing
is captioned. The captioning is at the very bottom of
the screen, very easy to read and does not interfere
with the photography. We hope you will support their
effort to make movies more accessible to the hard
of hearing.
Page 3
OCTOBER 2014
Hearing Loops in Anacortes
Beware of Fake Tech Support Calls
Look for this symbol that
indicates that a hearing loop is
available. In Anacortes, you will
find them at the Center, as well
as the City Council chamber,
the meeting room at the
Anacortes Library and the
Anacortes Community Theater.
Hearing loop systems take sound straight from the source
and deliver it right into the listener’s hearing aid without
extraneous noise or blurring. It turns their hearing aids
into wireless earphones that broadcast sound customized
for their hearing loss. Hearing loops can also be used by
people without hearing aids through the use of portable
receivers. We have those available at the Center as well.
If you have any questions or would like a demonstration
of the loop system at the Center, call Sally Hill.
There has been a resurgence of fake “tech support” calls.
Callers pose as computer support technicians, often from
Microsoft itself but also from name-brand computer
makers such as Dell or large security companies like
Symantec or McAfee. They try to dupe victims into
believing that their computer is infected, often by having
them look at a Windows log that typically shows scores of
harmless or low-level errors. The caller’s phone number
on Caller ID can be “spoofed” to look authentic (as, for
example, from Microsoft). The caller will try to convince
victims to download software or to remotely access the
victim’s PC. The con artists charge for their “help” and
often get people to pay for worthless software. Frequently
the software is not only useless, but also includes
malicious Trojan horse malware that steals online account
information and passwords. Do not to give control of
your PC to any fake “tech” caller, and never to give out
credit card or other personal information. Simply hang
up on such calls.
Come “Like” Us on Facebook!
The Center’s Facebook page has taken a big boost in
activity. It’s newly fresh and fun, with lots of photos and
activity information. You are invited to “like” us by
visiting Anacortes Senior Activity Center on Facebook.
We hope you will check it out! Also, if you are interested
in learning how to use Facebook, please leave your name
and phone number at the Reception Desk. You will be
called when a class gets set up.
Meals on Wheels Driver Needed
The Center has a need for a regular Meals on Wheels
driver on Tuesdays. If
you are interested in
helping out, please
contact Carolyn in
the Kitchen.
Downtown Trick-Or-Treat
Program Disclaimer
The community trick-or-treat event, sponsored by
Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, will be on Friday,
October 31, from 2 to 4 p.m. This fun community event
will start off with a Trick or Treat Candy Drive. If you
would like to support this event and help keep local
children safe, you can donate
individually wrapped candy.
Drop off locations are at the
Anacortes Senior Activity
Center, Bank of the Pacific,
Upstage Boutique and Men’s
Store, Read Me A Story and
in the lobby of the Anacortes
Chamber of Commerce.
The Anacortes Senior Activity Center invites speakers
and organizations to present programs on a variety of
topics believed to be of interest and benefit to Center
participants. Such invitation does not constitute
endorsement or sponsorship of the presenter, product
or services represented. Those invited to offer programs
are advised not to see the presentation as an opportunity
for sale of a service or product.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Page 4
OCTOBER 2014
Honorary and
Memorial Gifts
TRIPS
A gift to the Anacortes
Senior Activity Center is
the perfect way to honor
the memory of a friend or
loved one. Donations may
be made in any amount and will go to support the many
wonderful programs and activities at the Center. Once
received, a personalized note will be sent in your name
to the honoree or family member notifying them of your
kind gesture. All donations are tax-deductible and you
will receive a letter documenting your contribution. For
more information, contact Center Coordinator Sally
Hill at 293-7473.
TRASH TALK
Cloth Market Bags
Here are some suggestions on how to use cloth market
bags without offending others. Wash your cloth bags
often and/or use plastic or thermal bags that can be
wiped clean with bleach. Instead of using plastic bags for
vegetables or fruit, use new paper lunch sacks. (Buy
those made from recycled material.) Be a hero! Donate
your bag credit to the local food bank. — And here’s
another great hint: Place cloth bags and your grocery list
on your car’s passenger seat. You’ll be less likely to forget
to take them into the store with you.
INTERGENERATIONAL ACTIVITIES
History Films
This series of historical documentaries by great
American filmmakers is shown on the first and third
Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. In October, the films will be
shown on October 1 and October 15.
We will be starting with Ken Burn’s
film The Civil War. This Emmy awardwinning documentary brings to life
America’s most destructive – and
defining – conflict. Call Sheri
Muntean CPA PhD at 420-5867
for details.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Trips often fill up fast so be sure to register early.
Registration forms are available at all Skagit County
Senior Centers. Please pay with check or cash when you
register to hold your spot; credit/debit cards are not
accepted at this time. Note: Payment is non-refundable.
Unless otherwise noted, travel will be in Recreation
Without Borders vans. The departure times listed are for
the Anacortes Center. The vans will also make a stop at
the Burlington Senior Center. Bring money for food and
purchases. Wear weather appropriate clothing and
comfortable sturdy, walking shoes. And of course don't
forget your camera!
Colorful and Fun
Leavenworth
Fall is in the air, and what better
way to enjoy and embrace this
wonderful season than with a
beautiful day trip to the lovely
hamlet of Leavenworth on Wednesday, October 15.
Travel via van over Steven’s Pass, and enjoy all the
amazing views and fall colors along the drive. Once in
town, you’re on your own to spend the day sightseeing,
shopping, strolling and perhaps wine sampling. Time
will also be set aside for an optional trip to Smallwood
Farms in Peshastin. This wonderful country store and
orchard will be overflowing with fresh picked fruit, jams,
jellies and so much more. Leave Anacortes at 8 a.m. and
return at 6 p.m. The cost is $60. Register by October 8.
New Day Northwest, Gilman Village and
Boehm’s Chocolates
Lights … camera … action! On Wednesday, October 29
visit KING-5 TV for the live taping of New Day
Northwest, a magazine-style show with exciting guests,
free give-aways and lots of laughter. Next up will be a
visit to award-winning and historic Gilman Village in
Issaquah. There you will have plenty of time to explore
the shops and wonderful surroundings as well as a nohost lunch. The last stop will be at Boehm’s Candies and
Chocolates, handcrafters of exquisite, rich, Europeanstyle, hand-dipped chocolate truffles and other treats.
Page 5
OCTOBER 2014
New Day
Northwest,
Gilman
Village and
Boehm’s
Chocolates (continued)
walk along the picturesque waterfront. Lunch is included
in the fee. Please note: Proof of citizenship (valid
passport, enhanced driver’s license or NEXUS card) is
required to cross the border. Leave Anacortes at 8:30
a.m. and return at 5:30 p.m. The cost is $74. Register
by November 12.
Victoria BC Holiday Getaway
Note: the Boehm’s tour includes some uneven,
gravel pathways and stairs. Leave Anacortes at 7:30
a.m. and return at 5 p.m. The cost is $60. Register by
October 22.
Seattle Gift Show and
Historic Downtown Snohomish
On Friday, November 14, travel to Seattle for the 17th
Annual Christmas Gift and Gourmet Food Show.
Carefully planned all year to bring you a wide variety
of gifts, the show includes original handcrafted items,
holiday and home décor and specialty foods. In
addition there will be over 100 artists in action as well
as a state-of-the-art cooking demonstration stage with
amazing recipes, ideas and samples to taste for the
coming holidays. The next stop will be in historic
downtown Snohomish. Newly refurbished, Snohomish
features fun boutiques, antique stores, bakeries and
more, where you can find something for everyone.
Leave Anacortes at 8:30 a.m. and return at 5:30 p.m.
The cost is $64. Register by November 7.
Granville Island and Pacific Institute
of Culinary Art’s Bistro 101
On Wednesday, November 19, head for colorful
Granville Island for a day of gourmet eating, shopping
and exploration. Bistro 101, the award-winning café of
the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, provides guests
with both a fine-dining experience and a glimpse at the
world’s future great
chefs in training. After
enjoying an exquisite
three-course meal,
explore all the shops,
stalls and public
market. Enjoy a lovely
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Travel via van and ferry to beautiful Victoria on
Wednesday and Thursday, December 10 and 11. to the
Best Western Inner Harbour in the heart of downtown
Victoria. You’ll be within walking distance to shops,
cafes and wonderful holiday attractions. On Wednesday
evening, visit Butchart Gardens to celebrate its 28th
season of festive Christmas displays. On Thursday
morning, explore the Inner Harbour on your own or
enjoy a tour of Parliament before heading over to the
Royal BC Museum. Enjoy a
no-host lunch and perhaps
stroll the harbor once more
before departing for the
Tsawwassen ferry home. Fee
includes transportation,
accommodations (based on
double occupancy), a deluxe
hot breakfast on Thursday and all advertised entry fees.
It does not include other meals or purchases. Proof of
citizenship (current passport, DMV enhanced driver’s
license or NEXUS card) is required to cross the border.
Leave Anacortes on Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. and return
on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $279. Register by
Monday, November 10.
Warm Beach Lights of Christmas
and Dessert Matinee
On Sunday, December 14, visit Warm Beach and enjoy
the dazzling light displays, the holiday sounds of
Victorian carolers and the smell of fresh hot donuts plus
a performance of the Sunday Dessert Theatre Matinee.
Before the show, enjoy scrumptious desserts and
beverages then watch a live production of It’s A
Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Afterwards, stroll
around and view the glittering lights throughout
Page 6
OCTOBER 2014
Warm Beach
Christmas
Kidney Support: The Road Back to Life
(continued)
the enchanting Warm
Beach grounds. Finally
on the way home, the
tour will meander through some lovely neighborhoods
exhibiting their own holiday spirit. Fee includes dessert,
show and Christmas Lights entry. Leave Anacortes at
2:30 p.m. and return at 9 p.m. The cost is $67.
HEALTH AND FITNESS
Flu Shot Clinic
Wellness Day: Safe in the Sound:
Are You Prepared?
On Tuesday, October 28, at 10:30 a.m. join Mike
Stamper from the American Red Cross for a talk on
preparing for a disaster. If one struck today, would you
be prepared? Come learn how to build a disaster kit,
make a personal disaster plan and know how to stay
informed during a disaster. Mike will talk from his
experience about lessons learned from the Oso
Mudslide Disaster -- what went well and what needs
to be improved. The Islands Chapter of the American
Red Cross will be giving many “Safe in the Sound”
presentations in the community, with the supported of
Puget Sound Energy, to identify the kinds of disasters
we might encounter and ways we can prepare for and
survive these events.
Seated Wellness Is Back
Instructor Rita Yribar will once again be teaching
Seated Wellness starting
Tuesday, October 7. Seated
Wellness meets on
Tuesdays from 2 to 3:15
p.m. and is designed to
work with each person’s
individual range of
movement and focuses on
breath, stretch, and stress
reduction.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
On Tuesday, October 21, at 1 p.m. the “The Road Back to
Life” will be holding a kidney support group meeting to
provide free mentoring to all persons affected by kidney
failure, be it the dialysis patient, the transplant recipient
or family and care givers. The group will strive to
demonstrate that renal failure is not the end of the world.
There is a whole new life ahead for those affected. Also,
it’s been found that what works for kidney patients will
often work for patients with other illnesses as well. For
more information, go to theroadbacktolife.com.
The annual Flu Shot Clinic will
be held on Tuesday, October 28,
from 1 to 3 p.m. Vaccines for
influenza, pneumococcal and
tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis will be
provided by Skagit County Public
Health nurses. The cost of the flu
vaccine is $30 to $45 and is covered by Medicare Part B,
Medicaid and Group Health. The cost of the vaccines for
pneumococcal and the tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis
vaccines vary. Only Medicare Part B and Medicaid will
cover Pneumococcal vaccine. Medicaid is available to
cover the tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis vaccine. Please
bring your health coverage card or coupon.
Zumba Gold Classes
On-going Zumba classes are held on Fridays from 1:30 to
2:30 p.m. Zumba is a dance fitness program created by
Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto”
Perez during the 1990s. It involves dance and aerobic
elements and its choreography incorporates samba, salsa,
merengue, mambo and martial arts. Zumba Gold is
designed especially for seniors or others with limitations.
The class is led by Jennifer Beemer of Inspire!Fitness who
also leads Zumba gold classes in La Conner and at the
Burlington Senior Center. For folks 60 and older, the
drop-in fee is $3 ($5 for those under 60). You can also
purchase a 10-class punch card for $25. Good for all drop
in classes offered by Inspire!Fitness, which now includes
four different locations. Pay the instructor at the class.
Page 7
OCTOBER 2014
Gentle Yoga
Reiki Healing Therapy
Instructor Kate Bowers’
gentle approach to yoga uses
modifications that are
personalized to your needs. It
is great for beginners or those
with limitations. Classes will
meet on Thursdays from 1 to
2:30 p.m. The next 12-week series begins on October 2
and runs through December 18. The cost for the series
is $96. Late starters are welcome and the fee will be
prorated. Drop-ins are also welcome ($10 per session).
Kate’s schedule is subject to change. Please call her at
766-4282 or email her at [email protected] to
confirm dates.
Reiki practitioners Rita Yribar, Heather Hovis and
Lea DeVere are available every Wednesday afternoon
between 1 to 3:30 p.m. for Reiki therapy sessions.
Reiki is complementary to traditional medicine and
supports peace of mind and body. It nurtures on
physical, emotional and mental levels and makes
natural healing easily accessible. You might find, for
example, that having a practitioner place hands on
your head may help ease your pain when you have a
headache. For more information on Reiki, go to
www.Reiki_Connection.com. Sign up for a15-minute
appointment at the Reception Desk or call 293-7473.
Donations of $5 are suggested.
Blood Pressure Checks
T’ai Chi Chih and Qigong
Elaine Oliphant does free blood
pressure checks on the last Tuesday
of every month from 9:30 a.m. to
10:30 a.m.
Are you ready to feel stronger, happier and healthier?
Learn simple, mindful movements that boost your
attitude, energy and balance. Classes are held on
Thursdays, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. The next four-week
session will be held October 9 through October 30.
The cost for each four-week series is $60. All levels are
welcome. Sign up with payment in advance at the
Reception Desk. For more information, contact Joan
Roulac, at (360) 376-6336 or email her at
[email protected].
Living Healthy with Chronic
Conditions Support Group
Low Cost Dental Hygiene Care
The Center offers a dental hygiene program normally
held on the last Tuesday of each month. This month the
clinic will be on October 28. Ask for an application
packet at the Reception Desk and register. You will be
called to set up an appointment. You do not have to be
“low-income” to use this
service. This program targets
seniors who do not have
dental insurance, but even
those with insurance are
welcome. Those with
insurance will need to
process their own claims.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
This support group is designed for those living with
chronic conditions such as pain, diabetes, Parkinson’s
and other challenges. The group normally meets on the
first and third Monday of each month from 1:30 to
2:30 p.m. This month’s meetings will be on October 6
and October 20. Contact Sheri Muntean, PhD, at
420-5867 with questions. This group is designed to
allow people to support one another as they share their
healthy living goals and strategies. It also serves as a way
for those who took the Living a Healthy Life class to
continue their goal-setting and progress.
Senior Hike: Ace of Hearts Creek
On Friday, October 10, join other senior hikers for a
visit to Ace of Hearts Creek. Maple, willow,
cottonwood and mature alder bring abundant color to
the season. This is one of the most deciduous areas of
our forest, a real treat to explore in the fall. Expect a
wide variety of mushrooms along the way. Meet at the
Heart Lake parking lot at 10 a.m.
Page 8
OCTOBER 2014
The Eyes Have It
Computer Assistance
Kate Fewel, a social worker
with SightConnection, is
available at the Center on
the last Tuesday of the
month. This month Kate
will be at the Center on Tuesday, October 28. As our
vision declines, so does our ability to read, drive safely,
tell time, use the phone, continue with hobbies, use the
computer, watch TV or see other’s faces. Drop in and
see her any time between 12:30 and 2 p.m. for helpful
resources and suggestions for aids, skills and services
that ease the adjustment to changes in eyesight. Kate
can also demonstrate how to operate the Center’s
CCTV, a video magnifier to aid reading.
Skilled volunteers are available on a scheduled basis in
the Media Room to answer your computer questions.
Note: Jan Essley has changed her regular day from
Monday to Wednesday. Appointments may be made for
Wednesdays and Thursdays; drop-ins are welcome on
those days, but those with appointments will have
priority. No appointment is necessary for the “drop-in”
clinic on Tuesdays. Check the calendar for the schedule.
We want to thank our dedicated volunteers Ken de
Russy, Doug Johnson and Jan Essley for all their time
and skillful computer assistance. Jan helps with both PC
and Mac; Doug and Ken focus on PC. All can help with
tablets and phones. This service is free. Please note that
our computer volunteers may occasionally have other
commitments so call the Center at 293-7473 before you
come in.
COMPUTERS
Skype Computer Available
CREATIVE EXPRESSION
Skype is set up on a laptop in the small consultation
room. If you are familiar with Skype and would like to
use it, feel free to do so. If you would like to learn to use
it, see one of the volunteers at the Drop-In Computer
Clinic for assistance. Help will be provided on a firstcome, first-served basis. The Skype computer room is
also used by other people, so if it is occupied, be sure
and try again at another time.
Computer Basics Class
Jan Essley will be teaching a two-day computer class on
October 8 and October 15 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. This
will be the last class in 2014. Laptops will be provided
for your use in the class.
Sign up at the Reception
Desk. If you are on the
waiting list, don’t despair.
You will be called to let
you know when there will
be space available in the
class. Thank you for your
patience. There is a
suggested donation of
$6 for the two-day class
series.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Song for the Joy of It
Come and join in this new
weekly gathering of singers
on Mondays beginning
October 13 from 2 to 3:15
p.m. to learn, practice and
sing an assortment of music
styles. From Broadway to
Gershwin to songs of peace and social justice (and
maybe some silly songs), join in and make some joyful
noise. You don't have to be a seasoned singer to
participate and there are no auditions. Everyone is
welcome. Susan Egon Weiss is the instructor, and the
cost is $7.50. For more information, contact Susan at
(360) 220-5979 or at [email protected].
Basket Weaving
Jane Hyde teaches basket making on the fourth
Thursday of every month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This
month’s class will meet on Thursday, October 23.
Call Jane at (360) 661-7477 or 588-8853 for more
information.
Page 9
OCTOBER 2014
Landscapes
with a Kick
Artists Northwest
In October, art instructor
Dee Doyle, in her Monday
morning acrylics classes
and Friday morning
watercolor classes, will focus on landscapes. Both classes
meet from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Traditional landscape
painting is a joy, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
These classes will focus on great composition and design,
but we will ratchet up these elements and make beautiful
impressionistic, expressionistic and almost abstract
landscapes, seascapes and urban streetscapes. The
classes are drop-in, and the cost is $15 for each class.
For further information, contact Dee Doyle at
[email protected] or call 630-0208.
Artists Northwest meets at the Center on the third
Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The
next meeting will be on Thursday, October 16. This
organization is dedicated to fostering fellowship and
education among artists of all levels using various
mediums. Members come together to share experiences
and knowledge in artistic endeavors. They promote and
share new ideas and techniques to grow and stimulate
creativity. This group of artists occasionally paints as a
group, either inside or outside. Call Sharon at 588-1848
or Jerlyn at 299-1210 for more information.
Ukulele Enthusiasts Welcome
Do you play or have you always
wanted to? Do you enjoy
singing with others? The Senior
Mosaic Art Workshop
Ukulele Ensemble, led by
An on-going mosaic art workshop is held at the Center on ukulele enthusiast Richard
Mitlyng, meets at the Center on
Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 12 noon, except for
Thursdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
the second Wednesday of each month. There will be no
instruction given, but all participants are welcome to work If you are just beginning to play
the ukulele, there is a Beginners
on their projects, trade glass and share ideas with other
Class at 3 p.m. taught by Linda
workshop participants. All previous mosaic students are
Zielinski. Bring your own ukulele. There is no charge,
welcome to come. There is no charge.
and all levels are welcome to join in the fun. In fact,
come even if you don’t play; it is fun to just listen in
Creative Circle
or sing along.
Join with other creative folks at the Creative Circle every
Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Some of the projects
Miracle of Art
people work on include beading, felting, jewelry making,
This informal art appreciation class, conducted by Lou
polymer clay, egg art and more. Join us for three hours,
meet new people and get your projects done. There is no D’Amelio, is held on Tuesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The
class started in 1989 by Dr. Susanne Baker, whose art
cost. Just bring your projects and join in.
work is seen each month in the Center’s newsletter. The
first part of the class consists of a discussion on a selected
Piano Lessons
art-related topic which changes weekly. There is also a
A beginning group meets on Wednesdays from
show-and-tell during which participants may raise any art3:10 to 3:55 p.m. The class
related topic for discussion. The discussions are followed
will cover music reading,
by showing DVDs on art by professors of art history.
finger strengthening and
Currently the class is following lectures on How to Look at
familiar tunes. Come join
and Understand Great Art by Professor Sharon Latchaw
the fun! The cost is $15 for
Hirsh. All are welcome to attend.
each class. Call Sally Kirk at
856-4938 to sign up.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Page 10
OCTOBER 2014
Cultured Palette
The Cultured Palette is
a group of eclectic local
artists who live in or near
Anacortes and gather to
paint together on Friday
afternoons at 12:30 p.m.
There will be no formal instruction, but there will
occasionally be instruction in the form of DVD or
workshop. The group varies in skill level, chosen media
(water-based or pastel), subject matter, and artistic style.
All skill levels are invited to come and paint. Call
Beryle at 293-8538, Joyce at 293-6241 or Betty at
293-4450 for information.
10:30 a.m. Beginners learn vocabulary, the alphabet and
numbers to 20, common phrases, how to ask questions,
and storytelling. Intermediate students will focus on
increasing speed on the alphabet, finger spelling, and
numbers and sentences. The classes are free and all ages
are welcome. If you have questions, email Dawnstarr
Pilcher or Pandora Aspelund at [email protected]
for more information.
GAMES AND RECREATION
Game Time!



LANGUAGE AND DISCUSSION

Fidalgo Book Group


The group normally meets on the first Thursday of
each month. On Thursday, October 2, at 9:30 a.m. the
group will read Unbroken by Lauren Hilderbrand.
This World War II story tells of the survival, resilience,
and redemption of Olympic runner and Air Force
Bombardier Louie Zamperini. In November, the group
will read Lottery by Patricia Wood. This novel about
loyalty and trust when the main character wins the
Washington state lottery and finds he has more family
than he knew, both good and bad. Everyone is
welcome to join this friendly and interesting group of
readers.
Flyswatter
Volleyball
Come and join in the
fun. Flyswatter
volleyball games are
held regularly on the
first and third Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
There are sure to be lots of laughs and memorable
moments! If you would like to arrange for play at another
date and time, see Sally for scheduling.
Second Sunday Monthly Film Series
Sign Language Classes
On Sunday, October 12, at 6:30 p.m. the Second Sunday
Film Series will continue its showing of Tales from
Gotham, a series of three movies in which New York is a
vital ingredient of the story. This month’s film, the
second in the series, is a dramatic comedy from 1979.
Like the first one, it is quintessentially a New York tale.
If you want monthly notices about upcoming films with
more detail, subscribe to the Second Sunday Film Series
by emailing a request to [email protected]. All
screenings are co-sponsored by the City of Anacortes Park
and Recreation Department and the Anacortes Senior
Activity Center.
You can help break the communication barrier
between the hearing and
deaf communities. Visual
Connections is currently
teaching American Sign
Language on Tuesdays and
Fridays. The beginning class
will be from 10:30 to 11:30
a.m. and the intermediate
class will meet from 9:30 to
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Chess: Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m.
Mexican Train: Wednesdays at 1 p.m.
Scrabble: Mondays at 1 p.m.
Pinochle: Fridays at 12:30 p.m.
Bridge: Mondays at 12:30 p.m.
Partner Bridge: Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m.
Page 11
OCTOBER 2014
SERVICES
Haircuts with
Marianne Meyer
Marianne, who owned La
Conner’s Mane Event for 25
years, comes to the Center once
a month on the last Monday
morning of every month from
8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This
month Marianne will be at the
Center on October 27. The cost is $10 and you
must schedule an appointment in advance. Call
293-7473 or make your appointment in person at the
Reception Desk.
Take Care of Your Feet
Foot care will be available most Mondays. Call the
Center at 293-7473 to make an appointment. The
gentle and experienced staff of Catholic Community
Services provides the foot care. The cost is $20. Please
remember to bring a small towel. Hand care is
available also for $6.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center Lunch
We serve a delicious, well-balanced meal each weekday
from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The menu is available
online at www.skagitseniors.org or in the Center’s
monthly newsletter. In addition to the listed menu
items,
soup
and
salad
are
served
most
days.
The suggested donation for seniors 60+ is $3.50 to
$5.50 per meal; cost for non-seniors is $6.00 per meal.
Reservations are not required. For more information,
call the Senior Activity Center at 293-7473. The same
menu is also delivered to homebound seniors. Contact
Meals on Wheels at 419-3420 for more information.
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
ADR: Aging and
Disability Resources
Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) helps people
who are age 60 and older, people with disabilities, and
family members access a wide variety of community
resources, information, services and programs since
1978. ADR provides confidential services, free of
charge and can help guide you in finding the
information and programs that meet your individual
needs. ADR specialists work with you over the phone
or are available to meet with you by appointment
between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in
the ADR office, or if necessary, in your home. Please
call 428-1301 or e-mail [email protected].
Chair Massage
Relax and ease those aches and
pains each Tuesday from 9 to 12
p.m. Carol Park offers a 15-minute
chair massage. The cost for seniors
age 60 and older is $10/15
minutes; all others $15/15
minutes. To make an appointment,
call the Senior Activity Center at
293-7473. This service is sponsored
by Fidalgo Pool and Fitness Center.
Ensure Available at the Center
The Skagit County Senior Nutrition Program offers
liquid meal supplements (Ensure Plus) to seniors on a
suggested donation basis of $30. To qualify, you need:

To be 60 years of age or older
 To live in Skagit County
 To have a prescription from your physician or
registered dietician (a new prescription will be
needed every 6 months)
There are a variety of flavors available. Contact
Carolyn in the kitchen at the Center if you have any
questions or to arrange pick up of your cases of
Ensure.
Page 12
OCTOBER 2014
VOLUNTEERS
Tax Help Volunteers
Needed
Volunteers are
needed from February 1 through
April 15 to help low and middleincome individuals in the
Anacortes area with their 2014
tax returns. Volunteers are
needed to be counselors and
greeters. Training will be provided starting in October
and running through the middle of December. All
experience levels are welcome. To sign up as a volunteer,
call 588-4790 or email [email protected].
Advocates Make a Difference
Volunteer advocates bridge the gap between our
community and the residents of long-term care facilities
like nursing homes, who may be isolated from the
mainstream of society. Long-Term Care Ombuds serve as
advocates, observers, educators, planners, mediators,
listeners, troubleshooters, facilitators and peacemakers.
Get the satisfaction of helping to assure the best quality
of life for the elderly. For training and information call
Sandi Everest, Northwest Regional Long-Term Care
Ombudsman, at (360) 421-1080. Many elderly
individuals in our home of Anacortes need someone
to listen when they speak, and speak for them when
they can't.
Volunteers Needed to Visit Residents of
Rosario Assisted Living
Volunteers are invited to stop by any day of the week to
say hello to the residents of Denali and Mt. Erie, located
at 1105 27th Street. Many of the residents in these two
buildings rarely get visitors and feel lonely. Each resident
will have a list of three
topics of interest to them
posted on the doors of
their rooms, so that you
can easily establish
comfortable
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
communication. Volunteers are also welcome to get
involved with activities, music, share photos or enjoy a
free lunch with the residents. You can also just stop by
for five minutes to smile and say hello. Please contact
Laura Willingham, the Residents Services Coordinator at
360 293.3174 ext. 126.
Volunteer Services Needs Your Help
The Volunteer Services Program provides assistance to
seniors and disabled adults so they may remain living
independently in their own homes. Volunteers assist
with housekeeping, meal
preparation, shopping and
errands, yard work, minor
household repairs, moving
assistance and more. Currently
there is a special need for
volunteers to provide
transportation. Drivers receive
mileage reimbursement and secondary insurance. If you
are interested in helping, call 416-7585.
PUBLIC SERVICE NOTICES
Free Medical Eye Exams
EyeCare America, a public service program of
the Foundation of the American Academy of
Ophthalmology matches seniors in need with volunteer
ophthalmologists who provide a medical eye exam and
up to one year of care at no out-of-pocket cost to the
patient. To find out if you or your loved ones qualify for
this program, visit eyecareamerica.org. (The online
application does not request financial information.)
Fall Benefit for Friends of the Forest
Save the date! The 2014 Friends of the Forest Annual
Benefit Event will be held at the Port of Anacortes
Warehouse on Saturday, November 1, from 5:30 to
11 p.m. A fun filled evening with live music, dinner,
silent and short live auction. This fundraising party
provides the primary support for our Forest Education
and Stewardship Programs. The cost is $50 per person;
tables of 8 or 10 are also available. Check online at
www.friendsofthe acfl.org for updates.
Page 13
OCTOBER 2014
Recently Retired?
The transition from an
active, working career to
retirement is a major
change. There can be
significant changes in the
structure of our day-to-day lives, our role in the
community and our contribution to the family. Our
social status can change and the skills, knowledge and
proficiency we had in our job may not be valued like
they once were. A new discussion group is forming to
address these and other topics. The group will meet
twice a month on Tuesdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at
the Anacortes Library. For more information, contact
Dan Maul at 425-652-2498 or email
[email protected].
Anacortes Senior College
Ten afternoon and three evening classes will be
offered for the Fall term of the Anacortes Senior
College. Classes begin on Tuesday, October 14, and
will continue through Thursday, November 20.
Afternoon classes are from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Evening
classes are from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. All classes meet at
Anacortes Middle School.
Tuesday afternoon:
 Understanding Shakespeare, 6 weeks,
Diana Farnsworth
 Industries of Anacortes, 6 weeks, Tom Kuhn
 Children's Literature, 3 weeks, Karen Eichler
 Affording Good Food, 3 weeks, Heather Burke
Thursday afternoon:
 Landscape Design, 6 weeks, Ani Gurnee
 Our Changing American Culture, 6 weeks,
Dr. Michael Newbrough
 The Tankers of Puget Sound, 3 weeks, Ed Irish
 Investing in Stocks
and Bonds,
3 weeks,
Bill Short
 Our National
Parks, 3 weeks,
Roxanne Parish
Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Thursday evenings:
 Criminal Procedure, 6 weeks, Lou D'Amelio
 Contra-Dancing, 6 weeks, Betty and Bill Connor
 Our Universe, 6 weeks, Tom Churchill
Six week courses are $30; 3-week classes are $20. For
more information on classes, instructor bios, and a
registration form, go to www.seniorcollege.org.
All in the Same Boat:
Anacortes in the Great Depression
Too grim for an exhibit, you say? Actually, the topic of
the newest Anacortes Museum exhibit is surprisingly
uplifting. In Anacortes, no one had any money, but
everyone was in the
same boat, so people
looked out for each
other. They bartered
and traded, gave what
they could, organized
fundraisers, and
founded workers’
co-ops. New Deal
programs put men to work building streets and parks —
such as Deception Pass State Park — and creating works
of art that we still enjoy today. There were festivals and
parades, dances and football games, movies — with
sound! — clubs and gatherings. The exhibit can be seen
Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday
1 to 4 p.m. at the Anacortes Museum, located at 1305
8th Street.
Writers Guild
Fidalgo Island Writers Guild welcomes writers, editors,
reviewers, and avid readers of all levels from Skagit and
San Juan Island Counties. Please join us in the process
and share your input on what you would like to see come
from Island Writers and what part you would like to play,
if any. Great things, great fun, and group support! You
can find us on Facebook under the group Fidalgo Island
Writers Guild.
Page 14
OCTOBER 2014
Coffee with Laurie
Mayor Laurie Gere is
scheduled to be at the
Center on the last
Wednesday of each month
from 1:30 to 3 p.m. for an
informal coffee hour with
citizens. This month, look for Laurie in the Great
Room on Wednesday, October 29. Everyone is invited.
One-on-One Medical Insurance Help
SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors)
are available at Island Hospital Resource Center to
provide one-on-one health insurance information,
including Medicare and Basic Health. Appointments
are available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Call 299-4212 to schedule an appointment.
Soroptimists Loan Health Equipment
Soroptimists International of Anacortes helps many in
the community who require medical equipment such
as wheelchairs, crutches and walkers. To be eligible,
you must be a resident living in the 98221 zip code of
Anacortes and Fidalgo Island. The club cannot loan
equipment to residents of nursing homes or care
facilities. The equipment is available from 8 a.m. to
8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Soroptimists
Thrift Shop on Third Street and O Avenue.
DONATIONS
Donations Help the Center -- Thank You!
All donations made to the Anacortes Senior Activity
Center are much needed and greatly appreciated.
Unless given for a specific use, donations are deposited
into the Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation
General Fund. The ASAC Foundation is a 501(c) (3)
non-profit organization and all donations are tax
deductible. Your support assists us in maintaining the
Center as a vibrant, wellness supportive, fun and
inspirational community center. With help from
donations, the Foundation provides for many things,
including:
Anacortes Senior Activity Center

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Office Supplies, postage, copy machine
Staff support
Kitchen supplies, coffee and tea
Internet access and newsletter
Furnishings & equipment
Fundraising expenses and special projects
Building and landscaping improvements and
more!
The following are donations received by the ASAC
Foundation recently from groups and individuals.
Thank you for your generous support.
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
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





Mary Gleason
Senior Ukulele Ensemble
Laura Manion
Spanish class
Terry Kelly
Creative Circle
Ashley Gardens of
Mount Vernon
Judith C. Vogt
Marjorie Kilbreath
Ruth Vitovec
WANTED
Yarn Needed
Your local “knittin’ lady” is in need of yarn. Over the
past years she has knitted hundreds of hats, scarves,
baby blankets and lap robes for the Wounded
Warriors at Fort Lewis, infants and adults in need at
Omak Valley Hospital, returning Vets right here in
Skagit County, Homeless Shelters, Friendship House,
Salvation Army, along with the Island Hospital and
our own Anacortes Senior Activity Center. Please
bring your unwanted yarn to the Reception Desk and
Carolyn will stockpile it to be picked up.
Greeting Cards Wanted
We will happily accept your surplus greeting cards to
offer for sale in our gift shop. Birthday cards are
especially needed. Thank you for helping support the
Senior Activity Center.
Page 15
OCTOBER 2014
SUPPORT GROUPS
Look Good -- Feel Better
Caregivers of Persons
with Alzheimer’s
Third Monday, 1 p.m. Location: Merle Cancer Care
Center at Island Hospital. Contact: Cancer Care Center
299-4200. Registration is required.
Second and Third Monday, 1
p.m. Location: Westminster
Presbyterian Church, 1300
Ninth Street. Contact: Ann
Giboney at 299-9569.
Kidney Support Group
Meets quarterly, Third Tuesday, 1 p.m. Location:
Anacortes Senior Activity Center. Next meeting:
Tuesday, October 21. Contact
www.theroadbacktolife.com.
Skagit Widowed Support Services

For Grief Groups:
Contact Terr Heuterman at 336-3037.
 For Social Events including weekly lunches:
Contact Verna Pederson at 856-0860 or see SWSS
monthly newsletter at www.skagitwss.org.
Willis-Ekbom Disease (Restless Leg)
Support Group
Call for meeting dates. Location: Island Hospital /
Burrows Rooms. Contact: Charlotte at 293-7328.
Parkinson’s Support Group
Third Thursday, 1:30 p.m. Location: Island Hospital /
Burrows Rooms. Contact: Jerry Ramsey at 293-2185.
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Third Wednesday, 11 a.m. Location: Island Hospital /
Fidalgo Room. Contact: Carl Clinesmith at 299-3892.
Grief Support Group
Every Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. Location: Island Hospital /
Guemes Room. Contact: Doug Fakkema at 202-1699.
Loss of a Child Support Group
BIRTHDAYS
First Thursday, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Location: Hospice of the
Northwest, 819 S. 13th Street, Mount Vernon.
Contact: Skagit Hospice at 848-5589 to register. Preregistration required. This is an ongoing group for
parents who have experienced the death of a child,
whether as an adult or youngster.
Happy Birthday!
Art Healing for
Cancer Patients
First and third
Wednesdays, 1 p.m.
Location: Merle Cancer
Care Center at Island
Hospital. Contact:
299-4200. Registration
is required.
We want to wish “Happy Birthday” to
all of you who celebrate birthdays this
month. Here are some folks who are
on our birthday list. If you would like
to get your name on our birthday list,
contact the Center. We wish a very
Happy Birthday to:
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Anacortes Senior Activity Center
Page 16
October 1
October 3
October 4
October 6
October 20
October 22
October 23
October 26
October 29
October 30
Virginia Dinnocenti
Berniece Haner
Helen Bohn
Vi Huff, James Wilson
Betty Peaks, David Johnson
Willene Hoverson, Leslie Krous
Walter Schultz
Phyllis Quigley
Ethel Johnson, Glenda Bolicek,
Marie Allen
OCTOBER 2014