Submitted by the Orcas Senior Center.

What building maintenance, repairs and improvements are necessary to achieve Orcas Senior Center mission?

Built in 1999, Orcas Senior Center is now 25 years old in need of maintenance and repairs that would be required for any building of this age. Full ownership of the building will allow the nonprofit to secure grants and use local contractors that may have been precluded from bidding on county-owned property. It also could substantially reduce the cost of the work.

In the short term, the building needs a new roof. The nonprofit has submitted a request for federal funding to cover 75% of that cost. Additional short-term repairs include siding replacement on the south wall, floor covering replacement, and skylight weatherproofing in the cupola.

In the longer term, certain renovations could improve the use of the space. We might convert an existing “double office” into a living room-like space for support groups and other gatherings or relocate and reallocate certain spaces.

When funds allow, we might develop the existing patio on the north side to create a courtyard for outdoor gatherings, receptions, and dining.

First things first! The nonprofit’s priority will be to address the work needed to preserve and protect the building. It is an important part of our community’s cultural and social network. Additionally, its climate-controlled spaces, commercial kitchen, and auxiliary power make it a critical component of the island’s emergency response infrastructure. It’s too important to lose. You can help!

Donations may be made to the Orcas Senior Center Building Purchase & Renovation Fund at Orcas Island Community Foundation at https://oicf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3186 or by contacting OSC directly at admin@orcasseniors.org. Thank you for helping us write the next exciting chapter of the Orcas Senior Center’s story!

It’s Time to Review Your Medicare Coverage!

Will your current Medicare drug (Part D) or Medicare Advantage plan still be the best option for you in 2025? For many Medicare beneficiaries, the answer may be NO!

Several factors may have changed since you last reviewed your coverage. You may have new health issues or different prescriptions. Your plan might have a new network of providers or pharmacies for 2025, or its premiums and copays could have changed.

From October 15 to December 7, you can make changes to your Medicare coverage that will take effect on January 1, 2025. To help you navigate these changes, SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) volunteers will present information on what will be different for 2025. Join us on October 15 at 10:30 am at Orcas Senior Center for a free presentation open to the public.

SHIBA, sponsored by Orcas Senior Center, is a free, unbiased, and confidential informational service offered through the Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Contact the Orcas Island SHIBA office at 360-376-5892 or shibasjco@yahoo.com to schedule a counseling session.

Discover your Artistic Side: Art with Carla at Orcas Senior Center!

Unleash your creativity at “Art with Carla” every Friday, 1-3 pm at Orcas Senior Center. Led by experienced artist Carla Stanley, this lighthearted class focuses on the creative process with a strong belief in your artistic potential, regardless of skill level. Carla’s lifelong passion for drawing, backed by an Associate of Arts degree in Visual Communications from The Art

Institute of Seattle makes her the perfect guide for a fun and inclusive artistic journey.

With a background in teaching classes at the Funhouse Commons, Orcas Island Parks and Recreation, Poppie’s, and Orcas Island School District and a history of art contest victories, most recently for the San Juan County Luci B Community Wellness Van, Carla brings a wealth of experience. The class is $10 (or $8 for OSC members). Contact Carla at 360-317-5652 or onlyonorcas@gmail.com to secure your spot. Uncover your artistic potential and join us for creative Fridays at Orcas Senior Center!

Island Hearing Healthcare’s Stacie Nordrum, Au.D., CCC-A, Offering Monthly Hearing Services at Orcas Senior Center

Stacie Nordrum, Au.D., CCC-A, from Island Hearing Healthcare, provides hearing care at Orcas Senior Center every first Thursday of the month. To secure your slot, it is advisable to schedule your appointment well in advance, as availability fills up rapidly. The range of services offered encompasses hearing assessments, personalized consultations, hearing aid programming, and various other hearing aid services. Additionally, complimentary clean and checks for hearing aids, along with general consultations, are available. For appointment scheduling and any inquiries, reach out to Stacie directly at 360-378-2330 or islandhearing@gmail.com. Discover more about Island Hearing Healthcare by visiting www.islandhearing.net.

Discover Your Artistic Talent: Watercolors Class for Beginners!

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of watercolor painting every Monday from 9:30 to 11 am. Robbie Walker, an experienced instructor with years of expertise in drawing and watercolors, will guide you through the techniques she has perfected.

Participants are kindly requested to contribute a nominal fee of $10 per session. Please bring your own basic supplies. For more details regarding required materials and specific class information, feel free to reach out to Robbie directly. You can contact Robbie at 360-376-7714 or via email at robbielouwalker@orcasonline.com.

Nourishing Body, Mind, and Spirit: Yoga with Sam at Orcas Senior Center

Join Samantha Fisher in a holistic movement practice suitable for all experience levels, prioritizing an attuned connection to your body’s inner wisdom. Drawing from her training in Hatha Yoga and Integrated Movement Therapy, Samantha integrates insights from diverse healing modalities and spiritual traditions, offering a unique yoga experience. With over three years of teaching experience, Samantha is excited to share her practice at Orcas Senior Center.

Classes take place on Fridays at 11:30 am, with a donation-based fee. Sam suggests a $15 donation per class ($12 for OSC members), no one will be turned away due to financial constraints. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mats and, if available, blocks and blankets. For inquiries or supply needs, contact Samantha at 360-600-7372 or samantharichellefisher@gmail.com. All are welcome!