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Date: 4/26/2023
Subject: May NNN Neighborhood & Community News, and upcoming Events!
From: NNN Activities



As a community focused on providing support and social engagement, we enjoy sharing the latest news with our members, friends, families and community:

  • Message from the Board President
  • Staff Profile: Roshaé Lowe
  • Social Spotlight: Making Member to Member Connections 
  • The Member & Volunteer picnic is almost here!
  • Friends Who Passed in April 2023
  • May NNN Activities & Gatherings Open to All
  • NEW! Women’s Afternoon Break
  • Gatherings for Volunteer Connection
  • NNN Events Calendar
  • Birthdays to Celebrate in May
  • Recipes of the Month!

Message from Suzy Chandler, Board President

Not Just Another Rainy Friday in April! 

With so many rainy days in April, it was a bright spot of a day indeed last Friday to see so many volunteers and members in action, enjoying each other's company as we brought our local professional photographer, Jenn, out to capture an insider’s view of the services NNN brings to our community.

With a plan for multiple location visits in hand thanks to Danie, our Director of Community Operations and Outreach, we started off shopping in Edmonds. We met up with volunteer Marty B and member Randy E cruising together through the aisles, selecting all his favorites, and even coaxing the honey out of the nearly empty container! 

Our next visit saw our recently retired new volunteer, Vickie B, picking up not one but two members (Gini M and Betty Q) from their medical appointments at Swedish in Edmonds. It was great to hear that Vickie loves driving our members, and loves the flexibility and knowing she can make a difference. Gini and Betty had some great laughs while we were posing for photos, and were happy to share a ride. 

Heading a few miles south to Shoreline, we caught up with our new volunteer, Nancy Y, as she was sorting paperwork and talking about the next visit to work in the fantastic garden of member, Kim S. From the minute we arrived, it was obvious that these two have a great connection, and are happy tackling the project of the day - sorting a little paperwork, writing notes, pruning, and more. Kim caught us up on her days as a professional speciality cake decorator, as well as her practical techniques for attaching a battery-operated strobe light to her walker to be more visible to drivers while she’s enjoying a neighborhood stroll.

The final visit of the day was to pop over the freeway to Lake Forest Park and walk in to the tantalizing BBQ flavors at Briley’s BBQ. We got to meet with over a dozen NNN members and volunteers as they joined together for good company while sampling ribs, pulled pork, and more. Volunteer Ginger H shared her smiles and welcomes as we borrowed a few people to show a few of the computer tablets we have available to loan our members. We even met a few new people who want to become NNN volunteers, and got to meet two of our newest members. 

No matter what the weather might be outside, there was sunshine all around at our visits to see a day in the life of how our volunteers and members build our NNN community. What a treat!


Staff Profile: Roshaé Lowe

Roshaé Lowe wants to “sustain and create this better world that (she) believes is possible.” She believes that starts at the community level so she is excited to be NNN’s first Member and Volunteer Services Coordinator. She said NNN’s mission connects well with her experiences and “folds really nicely into the broader world of where we can be and should be” as humanity. 

NNN’s mission also resonates with Roshaé because she has always tuned into the difference between having access to resources and not having them.

When Roshaé spent summers with her Grandparents in Washington State, she recognized that the opportunities accessible to Black people in Washington seemed to be greater than those in her hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At 12 years old, Roshaé chose to live with her Grandparents here. 

Since childhood, Roshaé has found inspiration in the legacies of changemakers and prepared to be one herself through her studies at the Western Washington University in Bellingham. Nine months before the pandemic, Roshaé graduated with a major in Sociopolitical Equity and minors in Black Studies, Education and Social Justice, and Political Science. 

Embodying her belief that intentional individuals can come together to make a difference, Roshaé applies her talents as a facilitator for Seattle-area organizations. She is the Vice President of the Northwest Children's Foundation’s board, where she co-chairs its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and Grants committees. She is also on the board of Community in Schools of Washington, an organization that supports students to graduate and access opportunities. 

Roshaé said she lives in NNN’s service area, and joining it felt "in line with being an active and intentional member of the community.” After a month as Coordinator, she is eager to connect with more NNN volunteers and members. Roshaé recently completed her first member service when she drove Ellen K. to Swedish. When Ellen “could not stop raving about NNN and its volunteers,” Roshaé felt affirmed that NNN’s mission is helping to shape the world she envisions.

When she is not working or volunteering, Roshaé exercises creativity through poetry, mini-essays, collagéing, painting, and drawing. She said she is “privileged to travel” and always seeks to understand and appreciate different cultures. Roshaé is fluent in Spanish and regularly visits friends in her favorite locale, Mexico City. Though her Grandma passed in 2020, she is “still very much attached at the hip” to her Grandpa.

-By Kimberly Cecchini, NNN Volunteer Contributor


~ Social Spotlight ~

Making Member to Member Connections - How Do I Do That?

We’re so happy when members and volunteers with common interests want to get together – that’s one of the many benefits of being part of the NNN Community - neighbors connecting with neighbors. We’ve had some members ask us how to make those connections,  so here’s what you can count on us for when you want to offer activities or gatherings that are not hosted or sponsored by NNN. 

As a service to our Members, your NNN team is available to help create awareness and facilitate connections with other NNN Community members about your proposed get together or idea for a new interest group. You and your group are in control to plan, coordinate and lead the activity on your terms.  If NNN receives any questions about the activity, group or gathering, our team will pass those along to you, as the group leader, so you decide how to respond.

Here’s how your NNN team can help if you ask. We can:

  • Identify other NNN members who may be interested in participating 

  • Add your activity’s description, meeting times and locations to the NNN Events Calendar

  • Highlight your event in our monthly newsletter and weekly volunteer emails, if desired

  • Send an introductory email on your behalf to other NNN members and volunteers who’ve filled out their interest profiles that align with your activity/gathering/interest

  • Guide you about how to find other Members with similar interests by using the Directory on the Members Only area of our website

  • Provide you with a ‘Getting Started” guide

  • As a virtual village, NNN doesn’t have a central meeting space to make available to your group, but we may know some popular meeting spots you may want to check out

  • We’ll always love to hear how it’s going and receive pictures to post in future newsletters or announcements to help sustain interest and awareness about your event/group. 

We encourage you to follow the examples of fellow NNN Community members Marty B., Danie B-V, Mel B-V., Bette B., Jerry C., Eileen C., Mei-Ling F., Carol F., Anne G., Ginger H., Sharon L., Mary M., Sandy M., Vince O., Cynthia O., and Smriti P., (just to name a few) and start planning!  

Whenever you want a little help to make other NNN Community members aware of something you’re going to host, reach out to Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org, text or call 253-237-2848 or contact Services@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org to ask to be connected to someone who can help get you started.  

What interests you? Start something you love to do with other NNN neighbors and help build lasting friendships within your NNN Community!

Our Member & Volunteer Celebration Picnic is almost here!

 

June 10th will be here before you know it! Don’t miss out on a fun afternoon with your fellow NNN Community members while you enjoy a catered box lunch, play a game or two, and have a chance to win one of our many prize offerings!

If you haven’t returned your RSVP yet, better do it now! We need to know if you’re coming, whether you need a ride to/from the picnic and what entree you want in your box lunch. 

~ You must be registered to attend! ~

If youŕe a member or volunteer and have logged on to the NNN Website, the easiest way to register and make your main entree selection is by following this link or by pasting this address in your browser https://forms.gle/yZTGUdj8c7TBY3qT9. You may also email Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org, call or text Services at 253-237-2848 or email Services@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org

Hope to see you at the picnic! Mountlake Terrace Community Senior Center. June 10th, 12:15-2:30


Friends who Passed in April 2023

Some of our members are private people who do not have the opportunity to enjoy the large NNN community.  Their deaths are a loss to those of us whose lives they touch as we volunteer with them.  We remember them and their impact on our lives and thoughts.

Dolores Porter joined NNN a year ago this month.  We are grateful for the opportunity this past year to share stories of our families, life lessons learned, and concern at the state of the world as we traveled between her home in Shoreline and the home where her daughter resides in Lynnwood. 

A couple of months ago, we got a request from someone who heard about NNN from a spouse of a new NNN volunteer.  She wanted to sponsor her sister as a NNN member who would get visits from NNN.  In the process of making that happen, we all discovered that the new member was Delores’ daughter to whom we took her to see.  

The memorial service for Dolores will be held Friday May 19th at 11:30 at Holy Rosary church in Edmonds.

-by Sandy Moy, NNN Member Services Director

Margaret Houghtaling has been a mainstay in NNN since our first year of operation.  Joining most of our four walks each week, she was fearless (see approach to big cats one Halloween), and quick with the cane… including not being afraid to swat a fellow NNNer who occasionally smarted off as we walked.  She was kind (not saying a word about how fast she could walk with that cane when another member, seeing the cane, would remark on how it felt good to walk with someone equally slow).  

We will remember working in her yard with her, visiting her home, receiving many life lessons, and just enjoying time spent with a wonderful person.

The memorial service for Margaret will be held Friday, August 18th at Evergreen Washelli on Aurora at 1:00.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/seattle-wa/margaret-houghtaling-11259894

-by Sandy Moy, NNN Member Services Director

MAY NNN EVENTS AND GATHERINGS OPEN TO ALL

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

We welcome you to join us at any of our activities. It’s a great way to learn more about NNN and listen to others who enjoy the connections they make while attending an event. All activities are posted to our Northwest Neighbors Network web page. We encourage you to check our Events page for any changes or new opportunities that may pop up! 

NNN Members may request transportation to any event by signing into the website, texting Services at 253-237-2848 or by emailing Services@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org. Please request services as early as you’re aware you may want some volunteer help. 

WALK AND TALK:  

Get out and stretch your legs while visiting with other NNN neighbors! Walks take place rain or shine (but not when it is unsafe to drive or walk). All are welcome.

Weekly Walks:

  • Lake Forest Park, Horizon View Park, Mondays at 10:30

  • Mountlake Terrace, Terrace Creek Park, Tuesdays at 11:00

  • Shoreline, Hamlin Park, Meet in the first parking lot on the left, Thursdays at 1:00

  • Edmonds, Meet on Sunset between Bell & Edmonds St, Sundays at 12:15

Monthly Walk:

  • Doggie Play date/walk, second Saturday of each month at Edmonds Waterfront Dog Park, Saturday, MAY 13th, Bring your well behaved pup and meet us in the parking lot near the entrance to the dog park at 10:30.

CONVERSATIONS AND CAMARADERIE - ZOOM/PHONE CONVERSATIONS

Join NNN community members in engaging and friendly online conversations. We currently host three unique opportunities. Hope one or more are just right for you!

  • Monday afternoon Chats with Jerry. Call in to listen or share. Your choice! Great way to stay connected with your NNN community neighbors. 

  • Mondays, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Click Zoom link below or call: 253 215-8782

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2532372848?pwd=RmlBTUlCQWI1ZHpzZ2ExQ25ramRFUT09

NEW EVENT!!!

Women’s Afternoon Break
  • A new NNN online group launches this May that promises to be a fun social offering you can enjoy right from home! Give yourself a break in your day and join us for an hour filled with relaxed conversations and support. Hosts Carol F., and NNN member/ volunteer and volunteer Anne G. invite you to share anything from good books, favorite activities, recipes to cooking tips, tell us what made you smile recently, or simply how your day’s going. Your hosts promise to listen, keep it positive, and allow everyone a chance to join in. Familiarity with Zoom is not required, we'll help you along the way. No computer? No problem.You can connect by phone!  

    So, pour yourself a cup of tea, coffee or your favorite beverage and join us. Let’s make friends!  Familiarity with Zoom is not required, we’ll help you along the way!

    • Second and Fourth Tuesday of each month from 3:00-4:00 (May 9th and May 23rd)  

    • No computer? No problem. You can connect by phone!

    • Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85440313657?pwd=eHlDSnRHT0tYbktpVS8vVkNTbTJNdz09. Meeting ID: 854 4031 3657 Passcode: 9800

    • Join by phone: 1-253-215-8782 (at the phone prompts, enter the meeting ID, press #, then enter the passcode)

    Questions? Contact Carol@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org

  • Contemporary Conversations Discussion Group: Join member Mary M. and other NNN friends for an afternoon of interesting discussion about contemporary topics! With so much happening around us, we hope to explore different perspectives and experiences that impact our lives. We encourage you to raise a topic about current events and issues that interest you. 

  • Second and Fourth Wednesday of each month from 2:00-4:00 (May 10th and May 24th)

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2532372848?pwd=RmlBTUlCQWI1ZHpzZ2ExQ25ramRFUT09

GAMES! Join games enthusiast and NNN Volunteer, Sharon L.. for a fun afternoon of games and conversation.  Bring a snack and beverage if you like to nibble while you play games. Look for our NNN table sign. All are welcome. Just play for fun! Lots of choices and no cut throat competition. 

  • Wednesdays, May 3rd and May 17th from 1:00-3:00, Upper level, Third Place Commons, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, 98155

Mahjong group meets on Fridays at a member’s home. The table is full, but let us know if you want to add your name to the waitlist. We’re happy to add another table if we get 4 additional players. 

Games at Home: Do you like to play games (board games, cards, backgammon etc) but prefer to do so in the comfort of your own home? Members may submit a Service request to Services@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org. One of our volunteers may be available to visit and play along with you. 

BOOK CLUB: Join host Eileen C. and others as they share their thoughts about a book selected by the group each month. 

LUNCH with NNN: Friday Lunches are open to all. NNN Lunch host Ginger H. asks you to let her know if you’re coming so she can let the restaurant know how many to anticipate. Click “Register” on the Events Page, contact social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org or call/text 253-237-2848. 

May’s lunch locations

  • May 12th, Brier Pizza, 23631 Brier Rd, Brier, 1:00-300 

  • May 26th, Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, 4626 196th St SW, Lynnwood,  1:00-3:00

NNN Artists and Crafters: Whether you like to paint, draw, knit, crochet, make cards or have other special artistic talents, we welcome all to spend time and company with others who also enjoy creating in the company of others. Bring your own supplies and meet under the skylights at Third Place Commons in Lake Forest Park. Volunteer artist Marty B. and her friend Sylvia P. look forward to seeing you there! 

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30-3:30, Third Place Commons, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, 98155

Coffee with Neighbors! 

Join host Sandy M. and take a mid morning break to enjoy coffee and conversation with a few other NNN neighbors! Look for our table sign, grab your coffee and sit with us! Members may request transportation.

  • May 3rd, Richmond Beach Coffee House, 1442 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline, 98177, 10:00-11:00 a.m.


~ Gatherings for NNN Volunteers (and their invited guests) ~

Are you a Volunteer? If you have been vetted and approved as a volunteer for NNN, or if you’re a member who offers your time and talents to serve our greater NNN community, you are a Volunteer! These opportunities are meant just for YOU!

Members, spouses, partners & friends are always welcome, however NNN will not be able to provide any rides to these events. To help us reserve enough chairs and tables, please email Services@northwestneighborsnetwork.org, call or text 253-237-2848  to let us know if you plan  to attend. Thank you!

  • Volunteer Coffee Hour: Saturday, May 27th, 10a-11a

Woods Coffee

22019 Hwy 99 suite #100, Edmonds, WA 98026

  • Volunteer Happy Hour: Thursday, May 18th, 4pm-6:30p

Vault 177

1430 NW Richmond Beach Shoreline, WA 98177

We hope you can make one of these events as a chance for connection with other volunteers!


Visit Our Events Calendar!

Want to see if something’s been added or changed before you lock in your plans

We encourage you to visit our website at www.NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org. Our main page has a side column that includes NNN planned activities for each day and coming weeks. You can also find a month at a glance calendar of upcoming activities by visiting the Events tab on our website. To view the Events calendar, click on this link (or type this address into your web browser) https://www.northwestneighborsnetwork.org/content.aspx?page_id=4001&club_id=571198

Above is an ‘at a glance’ calendar for planned events in May as of the time of this publication. Hint: It’s easier to review when you look at it on the website from your computer or Smartphone.

(photo: NNN Member Yasmin G. and Volunteer Smriti P. enjoyed hours together last week onYasminś Birthday! 🧡 Such NNN Neighborly connections bring us such joy!)

Birthdays in May

Join us in wishing our NNN members and volunteers born in May a very happy birthday month! We hope each of you finds something that makes you smile, as we smile with you. 

Happy Birthday to: 

Marilyn B., Carla B, Cindy G., Heather H., Kelly H., Carlos I., Winona K., Mary Ann L., Hanna M., Sandy M., Bruce M., Lars P., Evelyn S., Marian S., Judith St.H., Lily S., Eileen W. 


~ Recipe(s) of the Month ~

Thanks to our amazing contributors! We need MORE recipes!! 

Please send comments and your own favorite recipes to Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org

Springtime Vegetable Salad

Ingredients:

1/2 lb linguini pasta (cooked)

1/2 tsp olive oil

1/2 cup minced white onion

1 clove of minced garlic

1/2 lb fresh asparagus (cut into 2 inch pieces)

1/2 lb mushrooms (thinly sliced)

1 zucchini squash (quartered and thinly sliced)

1/2 cup of whipping cream

1/3 cup chicken broth

snow peas (cut ends off)

3 stalks of green onion(thinly sliced)

salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste

2/3 cup parmesan cheese

Directions:

Drain cooked pasta, toss well with olive oil, lightly cover, and place in a warm oven.

Melt 1/3 cup butter in a skillet on medium heat.

Add white onion and garlic. Cook for 3 minutes.

Mix asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini and stir fry for 3 minutes over high heat.

Add cream, chicken broth and basil in skillet and cook uncovered to reduce liquid slightly.

Add snow peas, green onion, salt and pepper to taste.

Add pasta and parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.

-Submitted by Helene Harrison

OVEN CHICKEN SALAD  (Can also be served cold or not cooked at all)                                                                      

2 cups           Chicken, cooked, diced (10 oz) 

2 cups           Celery, thinly sliced (9 oz) 

1 cup             Cornflake crumbs 

½ cup            Almonds, chopped or slivered, toasted 

½ tsp             Salt 

2 Tbs             Grated onion

1 cup             Mayonnaise 

1 ½ Tbs    Lemon juice 

½ cup            Cheddar cheese, grated 

1 cup             Potato chips (or cornflake crumbs), crushed (optional)  

                      Wheatgerm (optional) 

Mix all ingredients together, sprinkle top with wheat germ and cornflake crumbs. Bake until bubbly in a preheated 450 oven for 10-15 minutes. 

-Submitted by Ginger Hodge


NNN continues to serve our members and help them age well in their own homes. We follow the latest CDC guidelines to keep our members and volunteers safe. As always, if you need anything, please call our volunteer team at 253-237-2848 or email: Services@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org
253-237-2848