Message from Suzy Chandler, President of the Board

Danie and Danielle taking a break from onboarding paperwork!

How exciting! We’ve been spoiled by the drive and dedication from Danie since she started with NNN at the end of 2021 (when we had 152 people involved), and now we’re thrilled she’s moving ahead fully in her role as Director of Community Operations and Outreach. With an added focus on Fundraising, Community Engagement and Volunteer Program Development & Oversight, we know she’ll continue to help us find even more ways to serve our growing community of over 400 people! Have a new fundraising idea? Send it along! (Fundraising helps us keep the costs of running our community program affordable and equitable for all Seniors and Adults with Disabilities in our service area.)

Speaking of growing - we’ve also added a second employee, and the NNN Board and Danie are thrilled to have Danielle Widjaya join our team as our Volunteer Services Manager! While Danie and our service coordination team members and Member Director, Sandy Moy and others are busy onboarding and showing Danielle the ropes, it will be no time before she’s the go-to person for everything related to meeting the daily needs of our ever-growing community focused on providing services to our NNN community.

Join me in celebrating our dedicated staff members!

Meet Danielle Widjaya, NNN’s New Volunteer Services Manager!

Danielle and her husband, Harley, enjoying the natural beauty of the PNW at La Push Beach 

Get ready for even more great things happening at Northwest Neighbors Network (NNN) with the recent addition of our Volunteer Services Manager, Danielle Widjaya! In this new position, Danielle will work closely with both members and volunteers as she optimizes program experience and engagement as well as community connectedness. 

Danielle graduated from Seattle Pacific University with her bachelor’s degree, having focused her field of study on sociology and criminal justice. During her time in college, Danielle coordinated international admission efforts, connecting volunteers with prospective students. Her professional background includes work with local nonprofits in Seattle in the human services field. She has excelled at community partnership positions such as assisting those with mental health, food insecurity, and shelter needs.  

Danielle strives to understand the unique needs of people while emphasizing commonalities that bring us together. At the close of her first week in her new role, she stated, “Despite our various backgrounds, we all have something in common. I can use my understanding of our differences and similarities and how to bring them together to be of use to and a support for our members and volunteers.”

As Danielle continued to discuss the NNN value of diversity and inclusivity, she shared, “I’ve worked with various groups of people, not just culturally, but also different ages and abilities. Learning from people feels really valuable to me. I feel privileged and honored that people have become comfortable enough to share with me and trust me to help them get where they want to be.”

Danielle is excited to have the opportunity and space in her new role to creatively problem solve. She stated that one of her strengths is finding solutions to a challenge that might not be straightforward. Her first order of business, however, is “getting to know the team members, service coordinators, volunteers, and members and learning how I can be a support.” She will prioritize involvement in community events and, as she gets to know everyone, will welcome feedback about what is working well while also holding space to discuss opportunities to improve processes.  

Danielle was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia and moved to the Seattle area at the age of 16 to further her education. She loves the cold, rainy weather in the Pacific Northwest as it offers such a change from the climate experienced in Indonesia. Danielle’s hobbies include video gaming, playing with her 3 cats, and enjoying spicy food. In the future, she would love for NNN to host a community potluck in which foods from different cultures could be shared. 

Danielle would love to hear from you! She can be reached at danielle@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or 253-237-2848

–By NNN Community Writer, Carla Leathers

August Events

Please join us! NNN members and volunteers host a variety of events, gatherings and online chat groups. Throughout the month check out the website calendar for new or changed events as well as the monthly event descriptions/links.

Click on this link to view our Events page. 

NNN members may request transportation to any NNN hosted event. 

Walk with Friends

Take a stroll and enjoy the company of others.

Mountlake Terrace, Every Tuesday, 12 p.m. - Terrace Creek Park. Meet in the parking lot. 

Edmonds, Every Sunday, 12:15 p.m. – Meet at the corner of Sunset and Edmonds. 

NNN Lunch Bunch

Scheduled Fridays, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

8/09 –Aurora Borealis - Shoreline

8/23 –Super China Buffet - Shoreline

Our volunteer lunch hosts request that you register that you’re coming, so they can let the restaurant know how many to anticipate. To register online, click on the Events page,and then on the date, or instead call/text 253-237-2848, or email Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetworks.org.

Coffee with Neighbors!

Every 1st Thursday, 10:00-11:00 a.m. – 8/1

Richmond Beach Coffee House, 1442 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline, 98177

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! 

Games at Third Place Commons, Lake Forest Park

Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday, 1:00-3:00 p.m. – 8/7 & 8/21

Upper level, Third Place Commons, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, 98155

Join games enthusiasts and Host Sharon L. for an 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 cutthroat competition. 

Mahjong!

Every Monday at various locations around NNN neighborhoods, usually at 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Book Club - Online

4th Monday of each Month, 8/26 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Join host Eileen C. and others as they share their thoughts about a book selected by the group each month. The group is reading The Persuaders by Anad Giridharadas and will discuss it in August. Click on this link to join or go to the NNN Events page.

Conversations and Camaraderie - Online

Looking to take a break in your afternoon for a few minutes of interesting conversation and laughter? Join via the links below or go to the NNN events page. Phoning in information is available via the NNN events page.

Every Monday, “Let’s Chat with Jerry,” 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Coffee klatch style casual conversations. Join online - click here or go to the NNN events page 

Creative Expressions! 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 2:00-3:30 p.m. Zoom along with us and pursue your art, craft or creative hobby in the company of others! Work on your favorite art, craft or hobby project from the comfort of your home as we chat, find inspiration, demonstrate, and share in the company of other crafters and hobbyists. Pop in when you can, stay for the entire time or just a bit. Click here or go to the NNN Events page.

____________________________________________________________________

~ News You Can Use by Rita G. ~

“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” – Franz Kafka

~  FREE computer classes at the Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th.

These classes are free at the Shoreline Library but you must register: https://kcls.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?q=computer%20class%20shoreline

Microsoft Word Level 1 - Monday, July 22, 10:30am-12pm

Learn and practice word processing. Enter and format text, and work with files. Must be able to use a mouse and keyboard.

Microsoft Word Level 2 - Monday, July 29, 10:30am-12pm

Enhance your text documents with document designs, layout and more. Must have Microsoft Word Level 1 proficiency.

~ Snohomish County PUD was recently awarded $13.7 million in funding through the Washington Families Clean Energy Credits Grant Program. 

This money is dedicated to distributing a one-time $200 bill credit to assist low- and moderate-income PUD customers. Bill credits are prioritized for customers at or below 80% area median income (AMI).  If funds remain, customers up to 150% AMI may be eligible.

You may apply for a $200 Bill Credit and check the median income chart here: https://www.snopud.com/account/financial-assistance/energy-assistance/

Applications will be reviewed starting July 22, if approved, you will receive notification and see the credit applied to your bill.

~  DSHS Mobile Office for Community Services will be at the lower parking lot of the Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th on Thursday, July 25 from 10am to 2pm.

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services staff will be available to assist with:  Registration not required.

• Application interviews for food, cash and select medical assistance

• Yearly eligibility and mid-certification reviews

• Questions and answers about active cases or about any DSHS services

• You can also drop off paperwork, complete a review, make changes to an existing case or request an EBT card.

~  SilverKite Community Arts uses the arts as a tool to promote creative engagement, bridge generations, and work towards eliminating the effects of loneliness. Through their innovative programs and services through the King County and Sno-Isle libraries, they strive to promote joy, build relationships, and strengthen communities - one connection at a time. Check out the link for the monthly calendar, workshop description, access code for King County or Sno-Isle to register for the live online workshops.  These intergenerational arts workshops include visual arts, dance, music, writing, theater, and much more! Registration is open for individual participants of all ages.  https://www.silverkite.us/online-workshops

~ South County Walks is a program offering (4) walks each week led by volunteers. Walks run from July 8 - August 29, 2024

Walks will typically be 2-3 miles and will take about an hour to complete. The Walks are family-friendly and open to anyone interested, of all abilities. This is a FREE drop-in program -- you can join any of the walks at any time. All participants must complete a South County Walks Registration Form one-time before participating so emergency information is available if needed.

The walks depart and return from the following locations:  Lynnwood - Mondays at 6:00pm –Verdant Community Wellness Center, 4710 196th St. SW and Thursdays at 6:00pm – Lynnwood Recreation Center, 18900 44th W, Lynnwood.  Edmonds - Tuesdays at 9:30am – Edmonds Waterfront Center, 220 Railroad Ave, Edmonds. Mountlake Terrace - Wednesdays at 9:30am Mountlake Terrace Recreation Pavilion, 5303 228th SW, Mountlake Terrace.  Registration is required https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-county-walks-online-registration-form-tickets-944580043337?aff=erelexpmlt or call Verdant at 425-582-8600

~  Enjoy FREE upcoming community walks leaving from various locations in Shoreline.

Walks are currently scheduled on July 20, 26, August 3, 15 and 17 and begin at 10am. See the link for the location and description of the walk. https://www.shorelinewa.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation-cultural-services/recreation-programs/adults/shoreline-walks

~  Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center 18560 1st Ave. NE, Shoreline is offering FREE Tech Help on Tuesdays from 10am to 12noon and Fridays from 9am to 12noon.

FREE, individual tech assistance for seniors through our partnership with TechConnect WA. 

Technician Casey Diaz will be able to help you resolve technical issues with phones, computers, tablets, kindles, smart watches, software, email, internet settings, accessibility settings for hearing, vision, and dexterity impairments and much, much more.

APPOINTMENT REQUIRED - Please call the senior center to make an appointment at 206-365-1536

~  Community Transit (CT) is highlighting how residents can take the bus to get to various activities happening this season around Snohomish County and beyond – from local farmers markets to community celebrations, regional fairs, and much more. Check out some local events that CT will take you to and you can also plan your trip and see how CT can get you there.  Check out this website: https://www.communitytransit.org/landing-pages/advertising/destinations/get-to-summer-events/

You can obtain a reduced fare Regional ORCA card if you are 65+, have disabilities or are on Medicare: https://www.communitytransit.org/older-adult

The Regional ORCA card can be used for bus, light rail, commuter rail, streetcar and foot ferry services operated by CT, Everett Transit, King County Metro, Kitsap Transit, Pierce Transit, and Sound Transit.

Cultural Meaning of Colors

When I was little, I thought colors were just colors and there was no significant meaning behind each one. I was born and raised in Indonesia; back then, creativity was not as strongly encouraged as it is today, so I was content with believing that colors were just colors. 

My grandparents lived in Singapore and growing up I would visit them from Indonesia. After my grandpa passed away, my grandma started to get sick and we would visit her more often. I remember visiting her in her home and I wore a white headband that I really loved. I thought nothing behind the reason why I wore it, simply because I was a kid and only cared about what was cute to me. After seeing my grandma for the first time in a while, I got scolded by her because there was a meaning behind wearing white attire or accessories. I didn't understand why she was upset until my aunt sat with me and taught me that in their culture, as Singaporean Chinese, wearing white symbolizes mourning or death. 

Thinking about it now, this made me realize that not only was there a cultural bump, but it was also generational. Some things lose their significance or meaning as time passes by, but it could also create an opportunity for conversation and to learn from one another. 

One of the reasons why I am excited to be a part of NNN is because I get to meet diverse groups of people, whether it be culture, age, or abilities; I know I can learn something new. I always feel really honored when someone shares a part of their story with me. I’m looking forward to connecting with members and volunteers and holding a safe space to support all. 

Do you have a color that means a lot to you? I would love to hear and learn about what some colors mean to you in your culture. If you are interested in sharing with me, feel free to email me at danielle@northwestneighborsnetwork.org. 

-By new NNN staff member, Danielle Widjaya

1-1 Community Engagement Opportunities

Wenchiang Liang is offering: 

Are you interested in learning Chinese Calligraphy, the stylized artistic writing of Chinese characters? Or do you have an interest in Chinese culture and wish to meet with Wen for casual conversation? Please contact us at Services@northwestneighborsnetwork.org and we will put you in touch with Wenchiang to set up (and arrange transportation if needed to) a lesson or meetup at her home.

Randy Engel is offering:

Are you interested in improving your mobility and balance through Juggling? Randy has been teaching juggling for years and plans to start offering monthly classes at a local senior center soon. In the meantime he is always happy to have a student or 2 that he can work with 1-1. Please contact us at Services@northwestneighborsnetwork.org and we will put you in touch with Randy to set up (and arrange transportation if needed to) a lesson at your home or his home.

Take more advantage of our Members offering Technology support!

 

We have a wide range of skills that our members offering volunteer services have to offer besides rides and help at home. Some would love to walk with you on a regular basis, others would like to walk your dog for you. 

Many of our members offering volunteer services would really enjoy helping you with technology and perhaps learning some new technology with you.

Do you want to learn how to use zoom so you can join NNN and other community conversations? Do you want somebody to sit with you during an online event to help you navigate for the first time? Do you want to learn how to best utilize the NNN website? Would you like some tips from other members on using technology to stay organized?

If you are interested in learning ANY new technology skill or tool, please reach 253-237-2848 or email services@northwestneighborsnetwork.org and we will locate a member providing tech support to help you.

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 (or type this address into your web browser) https://northwestneighborsnetwork.org/content.aspx?page_id=4001&club_id=571198. Here’s an ‘at a glance’ calendar for planned events in August 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. 🧡

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

Happy Birthday to: 

Chris A., Ronnie A., Lydia A., Jean B., Myrtle B., Joan B., John B., C. C., Dean C., Lyn C., Katherine D., Laurin E., Julia F., Paul G.,Boib H., Leanne J., Bryan L., Frank L, Bruce M., Kathy M., Kristine M., Jackson M., Karl P., Al R., Barbara R., Teri S., Julie S., DeAnna S., Katie V., Liz W., Gene W.

Now for this month’s recipe:

Low Carb Parmesan Chicken Fingers - 4 servings, for oven or Air fryer

• 1-3/4 lbs chicken breasts

• 2-3 Tbs olive oil

• 1/4 C grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp each paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano

• salt and pepper to taste

• 2 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese

Preheat your oven or air fryer to 400℉.  Put 2oz of the freshly grated parmesan in a shallow dish and set aside for dipping.

Pat your chicken dry and slice each breast into 2 or 3 thick strips. In a large bowl mix the olive oil, 1/4 cup parmesan and all the spices. Transfer in the chicken pieces and toss to coat all well. 

Dip each piece into the freshly grated parmesan and then place on your baking sheet, cheese side down. If there is leftover fresh parm, sprinkle it on top of the pieces.

Bake for 15-17 minutes (air fry for 15 minutes). Internal temperature of meat should read 165℉

-Submitted by Community Member Rita G.

Do you have a recipe that serves 1-2 people? Or easy ideas for an Air Fryer or Instapot? Please send your submissions to Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org. Look for your recipe(s) to appear in this newsletter! Do you want to read recipes that have been submitted in past newsletters? Drop a note to Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org to receive a compilation of past recipes.

NNN Community Business Sponsors

We are grateful to our Sponsors for their support to help sustain and expand our organizational efforts to meet the community need.

Networking Sponsors

Interested in Becoming an NNN Community Business Sponsor? Learn more Here. Email: info@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or call 253-237-2848 to leave a message.