Northwest Neighbors Network News July 2025 | 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 Executive Director
- Member Profile
- What is Happening in NNN
- July Events & Gatherings
- News You Can Use by Rita G.
- NNN Events Calendar
- Birthdays to Celebrate
- Thank you to our Community Business Sponsors
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In Hawaiian, “neighbor” can be translated as “hoalauna” which means “close companion who is always near.”
As someone new to Northwest Neighbors Network, I find myself constantly meeting new people—and what a joy that has been. Each introduction brings the opportunity for connection, and I’m already building friendships with many of you. I cherish your company, your camaraderie, your wisdom, and your laughter. I am one of you. | | | I am a senior. I’m a volunteer with several organizations. I am a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a sister, an aunt, and a friend. I am one of you.
Recently, I gave a ride to one of our members—a remarkable woman who once taught in higher education and traveled the world. She has a family and many friends, yet now she depends on NNN to get to and from her appointments. Her story is not uncommon. She is just one example of the wonderful people we serve. She is one of us.
Just the other day, a dear friend of mine asked about NNN. Over dinner, I shared our mission and the ways we support our members. At the time, it didn’t occur to me that she might need our help—until she called a few days later. She confided that she was facing some health challenges. We spoke at length, and she was relieved and excited to know help was available.
She was especially delighted to hear that we play Chinese-style Mahjong. Nearly 30years ago, she was one of my first “teachers” when I learned to play Hong Kong style. I did warn her: we don’t use flowers, we don’t keep score, and we don’t play for money!
She laughed and said, “That’s okay!” She is one of us.
As I continue to share our stories with anyone who will listen, I realize more and more that this is where I’m meant to be—helping others stay in the place they call home, surrounded by dignity, community, and care.
Thank you all for welcoming me so warmly. I am honored to be part of this amazing network, with close companions who are always near. I am one of you.
Mahalo! Alison
|  | | Paula Guyen: Indomitable Spirit
I met Paula at her Senior Living residence, where she not only lives fully independently, but serves as the Hospitality Coordinator for a building of 79 residents. Paula is quite content with daily walks, loads of social activities on-site, and staying abreast with all of the friends she has made, residents as well as staff. I could tell that she is quite beloved. | | | | Paula (on the far right) and her brothers and sisters were raised in Shoreline. Her heritage is Creole; her parents had moved here from Lake Charles, Louisiana before her birth. Paula’s father was employed for years as a Pullman Porter (PBS and You Tube have some excellent documentaries on these men who played a huge role in the pre-Civil Rights struggle) in the South. Growing up, she encountered a school system that did not quite know what to do with her. She fell behind until her step-mother got involved and demanded she receive the education that every child deserves. | | | It has not been easy for her; as a young woman, she lost her father, mother, and step-mother, but she went on.
A good communicator, responsible, and highly organized, she took to a 30+ year career managing medical records at local hospitals. As such, she now enjoys watching medical dramas. Her son, Jamie, lives in Brooklyn. She hopes for grand-children one day. When her husband passed on about 8 years ago, she sold their home and moved into Senior Living. She says that move has encouraged and stimulated her to overcome her innate shyness.
Paula relies on NNN for transportation to and from her mounting medical appointments. She cannot afford the rising costs of ride-shares like Uber and Lyft. DART is there in an emergency, but she prefers her support from the volunteers at Northwest Neighbors, with whom she enjoys comradery and many friendly chats.
by Jack Hagel, NNN Volunteer
| | It’s a Wrap! This year’s annual Members’ and Volunteers’ Luncheon was a resounding success! |  | |
Eighty-five NNN community members gathered for a delicious buffet luncheon, sponsored by Crista Senior Living, to celebrate another year of belonging to a community focused on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors. Enjoy these quotes shared by some attendees in our post event satisfaction survey:
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It was caring from the moment I was picked up by a volunteer, the greeters and being escorted to the table of my choice, the interesting people who shared about Crista, NNN and heartfelt prayer.
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The chef prepared a delicious meal, the young servers were a delight, the prize drawings were a fun conclusion. A special afternoon.
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I think this was one of the best ones yet!
We appreciate so many volunteers and members who contributed their time and energy to make this luncheon a success, and we want to offer a special thanks to those without whom this event couldn’t have been possible:
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Drivers: Ruth A., Don B., Melanie B-V., Catherine B., Eileen C., Lyn C., Kate C., Lynn E., Lee G., Anne G., Brian H., Joe H., Sandy M., Alison P., Kristi S., Cheryl S., Terri S., Judith St.H., Barb T., and Danielle W. who made it possible for so many of our members to attend.
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Social Committee planning team: darci B., Marty B., C C., Rita G., Carol F., Ginger H., Cindy M., Katherine O., Rebekah S., and event lead Katie V. for your time and effort to bring us this year’s celebration.
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Sponsor & Community Business Supporters: Crista Senior Living, Aurora Borealis, Scott’s Bar & Grill, Ballinger Thriftway, QFC
Thanks to everyone who made time to respond to the satisfaction survey. Your thoughtful feedback and suggestions will help us refine and shape future special events.
Follow this link to enjoy a 4 minute video (now available on our NNN YouTube channel) of the memories from this year’s luncheon.
|  |  | | Every Tuesday
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Terrace Creek Park
48th Ave W & 233rd St SW | | Every Wednesday - NEW July 2nd!
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
23000 Lakeview Dr
Mountlake Terrace | | | | Every Thursday - New Meetup Location
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
| | Every Sunday - NEW July 6th!
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Corner of Sunset & Edmonds Streets
Edmonds | | | |
Opportunities to explore our local community gardens and parks
Now that it's summer, we’re scheduling casual "pop-up" strolls to nearby community gardens, garden centers, parks and other peaceful settings. We have one stroll scheduled in July.
Friday, July 18
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Kruckenberg Botanic Garden
20312 15th Ave NW, Shoreline
Meet at the entrance of the garden. The Lower Woodland garden’s 3 acres are now wheelchair accessible. The Kruckeberg Boardwalk is a 650′ raised, ADA walkway. The garden is free, but donations are very much appreciated. You don’t need to register, but it would be great to let our volunteer host know you plan to come. Click “Please Register” on the Events page. There is a small parking lot in front of the entrance, and there is nearby street parking. See the Events Calendar for more information.
Do you have a garden or know of a good park to walk in and enjoy being out in nature? If you’d like to introduce others to one of your favorite places to enjoy our wonderful outdoors or even in your own backyard garden, we’re looking for volunteers to host other summer garden/park walks. Hosting is simple. Just be at the chosen location’s meeting spot about 5-10 minutes before the walk starts, greet other walkers and send names of participants to us for our records. Please contact Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org to suggest a walk location, be a host volunteer or just to learn more.
| | NNN Lunch
Friday, July 11
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Lake Forest Park Bar & Grill
17535 Ballinger Way NE
Lake Forest Park |
| NNN Lunch
Friday, July 25
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Thai Wisdom Bistro
22814 100th Ave W
Edmonds
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| Coffee with Neighbors
Thursday, July 3
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Richmond Beach Coffee
1442 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline |
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Our volunteer lunch hosts request that you let us know you are planning on coming so they can let the restaurant know how many to anticipate. You can register online by going to the events calendar and clicking on the event. Or you can call/text 253-237-2848 or email Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org. | |
Volunteer Happy Hour (Active NNN Volunteers & other Members who also Volunteer) Thursday, July 17 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Lake Forest Park Bar & Grill
Join other NNN volunteers to visit, unwind and get to know each other better. NNN will buy some appetizers to share. Purchase of beverages or meals are the responsibility of each person. Please RSVP if you're coming, so we can help the restaurant be ready for us! | Games at Third Place Commons
Wednesdays, July 2 & July 16
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Upper Level, Third Place Commons
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park
Join games enthusiasts and host Sharon L. for an afternoon of games and conversation. Bring a snack and beverage, or buy at the Commons, if you like to nibble while you play. Look for our NNN table sign. All are welcome. Just play for fun! Lots of choices and no cutthroat competition. | Mahjong
Every Monday
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (one hour latter on the 4th Monday)
Lake Forest Park, Third Place Commons
We are filling two, somethings three tables! Additional players are welcome.
Quiddler
Every Saturday
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
We meet in a NNN member's home. If interested in joining us, please let us know.
Games in Your Home or a Spot Near You?
Would you like to participate in games, but prefer not to travel, or not travel far? If you are interested in having one or more NNN members come to your place to play a specific game line Canasta, Cribbage, Mexican Train, etc., let us know and we will see if we can make that happen. Maybe even on a regular basis. Or if you are interested in playing in just a small group of 2-4 people, we might be able to match you up with a few others. | | Book Club
July 28
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
July read: When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain
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| Conversations and Camaraderie
Every Tuesday
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Zoom (check the Events calendar for the link) |
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# Snohomish County Legal Services offers FREE clinics to low-income seniors, age 60+ to prepare your Will, Health Care Directive and Durable Power of Attorney. The next clinic is Saturday, June 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pre-registration and Appointment required. Call 425 258-9283 to register. No walk-ins accepted. Location of the clinic is 2920 Colby suite 102, Everett. See flyer for specific qualifications.https://snocolegal.org/event/wills-for-seniors-9/
# As a renter, if you are threatened with eviction, you have rights as a tenant. Join a FREE virtual Webinar, hosted by Solid Ground in partnership with Seattle Public Library. Tuesday, July 1 from 1 to 2:45 p.m., you will learn about local legal resources, laws that govern month to month tenancies, and your rights. Register here https://www.solid-ground.org/events/rent-smart-7-1-25/# Sky Nursery is hosting NW Sharpening for you to get your garden tools and kitchen knives (no serrated blades) sharpened this summer. The cost is $4.00 per tool, cash only. This service is offered on the following dates from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Sky Nursery greenhouse. July 6, 16, August 3, 20, September 7, 17. 18528 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline.
# Lifetime Learning Center offers a variety of classes at 3841 NE 123rd St, Seattle. The summer session runs for 4 weeks; the term begins Monday, July 7 to Thursday July 31. The cost is $10 for registration fee and all classes are $20. Class descriptions are here https://www.lifetimelearningcenter.org/book-online. Class schedule is listed here https://www.lifetimelearningcenter.org/spring-catalog. You may register online for classes here https://www.lifetimelearningcenter.org/register. For more information call 206.949.8882
# Shoreline College offers a variety of continuing education classes on campus at 16101 Greenwood Ave N. Topics can include arts, culture, music, travel, food, health, home, and gardening. Some classes are online only and some are in-person. Take a look at the offerings https://www.campusce.net/shoreline/category/category.aspx. You can register for Continuing Education courses online or email for assistance at continuing-ed@shoreline.edu or call 206.546.6696 during regular college business hours.
# Edmonds has released their schedule for FREE Concerts in the Park, held at several downtown locations, beginning Tuesday, July 8 through August 24. See the location, days/times and artist scheduled https://www.edmondswa.gov/government/departments/cultural_services/concerts
# Brier City Park 2903 228th St SW will host FREE Music in the Park on Wednesday, July 9 at 5 p.m. Ricky Gene Powell of Return of Deadgrass will perform, along with The Townies, Ranger and the Re-Arrangers, School of Rock. Food vendors will be on-site; Anthony’s High On Tacos, Kool Kidz Ice Cream, Reham’s Cake Gallery and The Cheese Pit. Bring your low-back lounge chair or blanket and come enjoy!
# ShoreLake Arts has just released their FREE Concert in the Park Series. There are four in August, the first being Wednesday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Pfingst Animal Acres Park 17435 Brookside Blvd NE, Lake Forest Park. This live performance features the amazing local artist, Stephanie Anne Johnson for a powerful blend of Country, Blues, Soul, and Jazz. Bring a blanket or low-backed lawn chair (to not obstruct those seated behind you), pack a picnic and enjoy! Remaining concert line-up https://www.shorelakearts.net/concerts-in-the-park
# Mountlake Terrace Summer Nights Music is happening at City Hall or Terrace Creek Park: July 10: City Hall 4:30-7 p.m. with Gina Belliveau, July 17: Terrace Creek Park; 4:30-7 p.m. with Stacy Jones Band July 24: City Hall; 4:30-7 p.m. with Brian James, July 31: Terrace Creek Park; 4:30- 7 p.m. with Brother John and the Surrogates# Medicare ZOOM webinar is being offered by SHIBA, hosted by Solid Ground. FREE presentation on Friday, July 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. This presentation will cover Medicare A, B, C, and D, Enrollment, Medicare benefits and options, Medigap (supplemental plans), Medicare Advantage plans, Help paying for Medicare and Medicare fraud. Register here https://www.solid-ground.org/events/medicare-welcome-7-11-25/. QUESTIONS? Contact shiba@solid-ground.org or 206.694.6750
# Snohomish County Legal Services also offers FREE legal aid and advice to qualified low-income seniors at the Edmonds Waterfront Center on Monday, July 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. Examples of topics can be regarding family law, housing, creditor/debtor issues. Pre-registration and Appointment are recommended, walk-ins are also welcomed. Call 425 774-5555 to schedule. This service is ongoing and usually occurs on the 4th Monday of each month. https://snocolegal.org/event/scls-edmonds-waterfront-center-legal-clinic-5-2/2025-07-28/
# Homage transportation assistance program (TAP) is available for adults 55+ and people with disabilities who live outside of the Dial-a-Ride (DART) service area. All new riders must complete a quick over-the-phone application by calling 425 423-8517, Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pick-up services are available Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You may schedule your transportation appointments Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. Rates are $1.75 each way. Riders may purchase 20 one-way tickets for $35.00. Drivers carry tickets for sale and only accept exact cash or a check payable to “Homage TAP”. For further information https://homage.org/transportation/tap/
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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. Here’s an ‘at a glance’ calendar for planned events 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.
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Join us in wishing our NNN members and volunteers born in July a very happy birthday month! We hope each of you finds something that makes you smile, as we smile with you.
Happy Birthday to:
Debbie A., Vivian B., Connie B., Karen B., Paula C., Lynn E., Jana F., Steven F., Patricia G., Karin G., Lori G., Dave H., Ginger H., Mary H., Patrick K., Gail L., Aimee L., Cindy M., Atef M., Rick M., Ann McK., Yvonne N., Janet P., Mahyar R., Janice R., David R., Myra R., Cheryl S., Larry S., Tammy T., Kayla T., Allison V., Linda W., Dakota W., Ruby W.
| We are grateful to our Sponsors for their support to help sustain and expand our organizational efforts to meet the community need.
Community Sponsors | |
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Interested in Becoming a NNN Community Business Sponsor? Learn more Here. Email: info@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or call 253-237-2848 to leave a message.
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