-By NNN Board President, Suzy Chandler

A resident of Edmonds for the last 40 years, her time before landing there is full of adventure.  Originally from Michigan, she started her career in California teaching high school. Although successful there, she continued her zest for adventure by securing a position teaching English in a village in Vietnam in the early 60s. While in Vietnam, she met the one thing she wasn’t looking for – her husband Fred! He was in the U.S. Army and stationed in Vietnam at the same time.

Her careers and marriage have taken her to California, Vietnam, Nepal; then to Montana and Arizona (where Fred was from) and many states in between. While in Montana, she wasn’t able to secure a teaching position due to overqualification, so she acted on an interest in interior design and antiques and ultimately opened her own antiques business while her husband went into real estate. They loved being independently able to pursue their professional interests.

After 11 years in Montana, a particularly bad winter got the better of them and they pulled up and traveled for 3-1/2 years visiting different parts of the country. While visiting New York with a v-e-r-y long trailer and van, Bette took up an educational opportunity to become a certified estate appraiser. Once deciding that Edmonds was the place for them, they established quite a list of accomplishments in the community. Bette started her own appraisal business (Guildmark Appraisal) and Fred was involved in many local activities, such as President of the Edmonds Historical Museum. They were instrumental in launching the Edmonds Museum Summer Market which provides the funding to keep operations going at the Historical Museum.

Bette’s interests and accomplishments are naturally intertwined with her late husband’s after 50 years together. Her enthusiasm for Fred’s career (pilot and instructor for helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft) was evident as she pointed out several photographs of him and some of his past crews, including those who participated in a high point in his flying career: the Helicopter Square Dance Team. Yes, really - helicopters dancing in the sky.

Although now retired, Bette is packed with energy and cautions she retired from work not life. She fulfills her own statement that she wants to have adventure while enjoying what she’s doing – why do it otherwise? Why, indeed!

-By Community Volunteer Melinda Nelsen

Volunteers Make Our World Go Round! Volunteer Training Opportunities

We welcome new and experienced volunteers to learn or brush up their skills and knowledge about volunteering for NNN Services for Seniors. Bring a friend and join Volunteer Services Manager, Danielle Widjaya at the Lynnwood Library; 19200 44th Ave W Lynnwood, WA 98036 most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00-4:00 p.m. Danielle will cover topics such as:  Back to the basics: *Website review* *How to select, perform and close out Services* *Maintaining Boundaries* *Emergency Scenarios* *What to Do and Not to Do* and there’s always time for questions & answers. These sessions are great opportunities to share tips and get to know other NNN Volunteers. 

Please let us know you’re coming by clicking on the RSVP link on the NNN Website. You can also just email your RSVP to danielle@northwestneighborsnetwork.org. If you are interested but unable to attend, please email Danielle to set up a 1-1 meeting.

November 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. 

NNN Lunch Bunch

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

11/08 –Aurora Borealis - Shoreline

11/22 –Vault 177 - Richmond Beach

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.

NNN Volunteer Happy Hour

Join the fun with our Volunteer Community Members for a Happy Hour. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please RSVP so we know you’re coming by going to our NNN Website and clicking RSVP Yes.  Date and location to be determined.  Check the NNN Events Calendar.

Coffee with Neighbors

Every 1st Thursday, 10:00-11:00 a.m. – 11/7

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. – 1162 & 11/20

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.

Book Club - Online

4th Monday of each Month, 11/25, 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 Turtles All The Way  by John Green and will discuss it in November. 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 Tuesday, “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 

Free: UW Retirement Association (UWRA) On Line Discussions 

These online discussions are free and open to the public, but registration is required. Registered attendees will receive the Zoom link and meeting password prior to the session.

Wed 10/30 at 11:00 a.m-12:00 p.m., Social Security Basics, Register

Tues 11/12 at 1:00- 2:00 p.m. Brain Health 101, Register

Thursday 11/14 at 1:00-2:00 p.m. Mental Health for Older Adults, Register

Tuesday 11/19 at 1:00-2:00 p.m. Promoting Mental Health Among Older Adults,. Register

Thursday 11/21 at 12:00-1:00 p.m.  Family and Caregiver Support, Register

Wednesday, 12/4 at 11:00  a.m. - 12:00 p.m.  When You Have to Settle An Estate, Register

Free In Person NNN Volunteer Training/Orientation Sessions:

We welcome new and experienced volunteers to learn or brush up their skills and knowledge about volunteering for NNN Services for Seniors. Bring a friend and join Volunteer Services Manager, Danielle Widjaya on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Lynnwood Library; 19200 44th Ave W Lynnwood, WA 98036. Please RSVP if you’re coming either on our website or email Danielle@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org

Free: Online Volunteer Information/Training: Special Topics

Join us online for one or both of these discussions. Link to each is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2532372848?pwd=RmlBTUlCQWI1ZHpzZ2ExQ25ramRFUT09

Wednesday, 11/6: Neighborly Check-in Calls. Join Volunteer Services Manager, Danielle Widjaya for an informal online session to learn about how we stay in touch with some of our members through friendly check-in calls. Through these calls, we enjoy learning more about our members’ interests and strengthening our connections. We have a team of volunteers that support this member outreach initiative and hope to grow our team! Join us if you are a current Community Member Outreach volunteer or if you are interested in learning more about becoming one. We’d appreciate it if you'd email Danielle@northwestneighborsnetwork.org to learn more. Please RSVP you’re coming to this session on our NNN website so we know you plan to attend.

Wednesday 11/13: Let’s Talk About Boundaries! Join Volunteer Services Manager, Danielle Widjaya for an online discussion/training about establishing and maintaining boundaries between members and volunteers. We will explore plenty of scenarios in regards to your personal boundaries and NNN boundaries around your time, policies, friendship and urgent requests. Please RSVP on our NNN website or email danielle@northwestneighborsnetwork if you can attend. Link to event:

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

 ~ News You Can Use by Rita G. ~

“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other”.  Audrey Hepburn

~  This Weekend come and enjoy a Holiday Bazaar at the Shoreline Senior Center.

Friday and Saturday, October 25-26 from 10m to 4pm

18560 1st Ave. NE - free parking

Discover local craftspeople and artists who sell their handcrafted wares.

• Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a beautiful holiday basket.

• Add to your holiday decorations sold at Santa’s Shop.

• Stock up on sweets and treats at the Bake Sale.

• Eat lunch or take out from the kitchen 11am to 2pm.

~  Sound Transit seeking passengers with disabilities, to test the GoodMaps app on their smart phones.  This is a navigation and wayfinding app with 3D mapping technology to be tested at five light rail stations.  Testing begins November 18, Registration Required.

Please sign up for testing by completing this form: https://forms.office.com/r/j59TUXrMny

Testers can test the app and provide feedback via a short survey, and will have the option sign-up for a 60-75 minute moderated testing session at SeaTac/Airport Station to receive a $150 gift card for participation (sessions available on a first-come first-serve basis).

The GoodMaps app is available for free to all passengers and turns your smartphone into a personal guide to help you find your way around the station with ease and independence. GoodMaps provides precise, turn-by-turn directions to elevators, train platforms, key points-of-interest, and more. Passengers with low vision disabilities can use the app, and passengers seeking stair-free paths can benefit from the app’s guidance to stair-free and ADA-accessible routes.

Testing begins the week of November 18th, at the following light rail stations; Capitol Hill, Columbia City, Northgate, University of Washington, and SeaTac/Airport.

For more info or questions about participating, email Katie Navidi katie.navidi@soundtransit.org. 

Currently this app is in use at the Westlake and International District light rail stations as a pilot program.  GoodMaps using your phone's camera to detect location with accuracy of up to 2 inches and delivers directions via the app to give blind and low-vision passengers, or those with mobility needs, instruction toward the station landmarks. piloted GoodMaps at International District/Chinatown and Westlake stations

~  SilverKite Art with Valencia Carroll

Monday, November 4 from 10:30-11:30am

In-person @ Edmonds Library 650 Main St.  Registration required   https://sno-isle.bibliocommons.com/events/66d0ca96bafe0c70524adb66

Explore and express autumn colors with chalk pastels. Various techniques and ways pastels can reflect the beauty of the season will be discussed.

~  “Boost Your Brain: Essential Tips for Cognitive Health After 55”

Monday, November 4 from 12:30pm to 1:30pm

In-person @ Shoreline Senior Center 18560 1st Ave. NE - Call 206 365-1536 to register

Focus will be on learning practical strategies to maintain and improve cognitive health, keeping the brain healthy, daily habits to enhance memory, focus and mental clarity, impact of nutrition, physical activity and sleep, and techniques for managing stress to support overall mental well-being.

~  The Power of Planning: Taking Control of Your Own Aging Journey

Monday, November 4, from 1:00pm – 2:30pm

In-person @ Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th Street.  Registration not required

Information will be shared regarding planning ahead for our own health, legal considerations, financial concerns, housing and family issues.  Do you have questions about?

• Options for long-term care if and when you need support.

• Your alternatives if you receive a diagnosis of a progressive health condition.

• How to make sense of the myriad of resources and choices.

• The essential legal documents that you need to have in place if you become incapacitated.

• What legal documents you can use to make sure your wishes are carried out after your death.

• How to manage and organize your finances if and when you are no longer able to.

Presented by Wendy Nathan, B.Sc., CMC, Lead Care Manager and Certified Care Manager with Aging Wisdom and Katie Marrs, Elder Law Attorney with Brothers & Henderson, P.S.

~  SilverKite Art 

Saturday, November 16 from 10:30-11:30am

In-person @ Mountlake Terrace Library 23300 58th Ave. W.  Registration required   https://sno-isle.bibliocommons.com/events/66fee42a1a28ec410073d63f

Using watercolors and fine tipped sharpies, we'll explore color, patterns, and composition with creativity in the forefront.  Materials provided but limited, register in advance.

~  Owls, Understanding Our Most Mysterious Birds

Monday, November 18 from 6 to 7:30pm

In-person @ Lynnwood Library 19200 44th Ave. W.  Registration not required.

Join master birder Connie Sidles as she takes you into the secret lives of Washington’s most mysterious birds.  https://sno-isle.bibliocommons.com/events/662adaed65c40592cbfe14db

~  Gearing up for Winter driving, know before you go... Tips for safe driving in snow and ice

WSDOT has several online tools to help travelers prepare for winter travel, including a checklist, info on traction tire and chain requirements:

• https://www.wsdot.com/travel/real-time/mountainpasses/winterdrivingtips

• Download the free WSDOT mobile app for Apple or Android phones or devices.

• Sign-up for email and/or text updates about road conditions.  https://service.govdelivery.com/accounts/WADOT/subscriber/new

• Use the online real-time travel map to check conditions locally and statewide before heading out. https://wsdot.com/travel/real-time/

~ Cyber Awareness, scammers use email or text messages to trick you into giving them your personal and financial information. But there are several ways to protect yourself.  Phishing prevention has become essential as more criminals turn towards online scams to steal your personal information. We’ve learned to dodge spam emails, but phishing emails can look deceivingly credible. Some are even personalized specifically for you. Since you will likely be exposed to a phishing attack eventually, you’ll need to know the red flags. Because scams are nothing new on the web, but phishing is harder to spot than you might think.  Take a moment to refresh your knowledge, this will keep you ahead of the scammers. 

Watch out for the following red flags:

• Unusual Messages: If you receive an unusual or unexpected message from someone you know, especially if it involves sensitive information or a money request, contact them through a different method (such as calling if you received a text) to verify the request is legitimate.

• “Too Good to Be True” Offers: Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Always research and validate claims before acting, and don’t assume that everyone is who they say they are.

• Sense of Urgency: Watch for messages or requests that create a sense of urgency or use scare tactics to pressure you into making quick decisions.

• Suspicious Callers: Be cautious with calls from banking or government institutions asking for sensitive information. If you receive an unexpected phone call asking for personal details, hang up and call back using a verified number for the organization.

Here are some links for additional information on scams, phishing and some online webinars:

• https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams

• https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/preemptive-safety/phishing-prevention-tips

•  https://local.aarp.org/edmonds-wa/aarp-events/?keyword=scam

~ There are a variety of free community meal programs in Shoreline which I will list here:

• St. Dunstan’s Catholic Church - Tuesdays, 5:30 – 7:00pm
  722 N 145th St, Shoreline  (206 363-4319)

• POPy’s Café @ Prince of Peace Lutheran Church - Wed. 5:00 – 6:30pm (To-Go meals)
  14514 20th Ave NE, Shoreline (206 363-8100)

• Ronald Commons Café at Ronald United Methodist Church - Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:45pm
  17839 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline  (206 569-7008)

• Shoreline Senior Center - Monday through Friday (multi-purpose dining room), Lunch is served from 11:45am – 12:15pm.  18560 1st Ave NE, Bldg. G

The food bank in Shoreline is Hopelink-Shoreline Market and Service Center @ 17837 Aurora Ave. N. - (206-440-7300)

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.

Birthdays in November

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

Happy Birthday to:  

Mary B., Amber B., Linda B., Adam B., Suzy C., Kate C., Paige D., Barbara D., Barbara F., Jane G., Janice H., Helene H., Jeanne H., Becky H., Alice K., Anbu M., Joan M., Anthony M., Steve M., Judy M., Brad O., Sheila P., Jerry P., Freda P., Joann R., Rob S., Joan Schroeder, Fay S., Carlene S., Anna S., Esthr S., Christine T., Ron T., Cathy W., Kirk W., Annette W., Linda W., Lindsay Y.

Now for this month’s recipe:

Deviled Chicken Thighs 2 servings

• 1 teaspoon butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon prepared mustard

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Dash pepper

• 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1/2 pound)

• 3 tablespoons soft bread crumbs

• 2 tablespoons chopped cashews

In a large bowl, combine the butter, vinegar, mustard, paprika and pepper. Spread over chicken thighs. Place in a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs.

Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with the cashews. Bake until chicken juices run clear and topping is golden brown, 7-12 minutes longer.

Nutrition - 1 chicken thigh: 246 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. 

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 CommunityAt a Glance

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.