The following was submitted by the Orcas Senior Center.

Support seniors by shopping at the co-op

Support the Orcas Senior Center by shopping at the Orcas Food Co-op on Oct. 18 for 3% Thursday Community Shopping Day.

For this day only, 3 percent of all co-op sales will be donated to the senior center. Stock up on organics or enjoy a tasty lunch and support our mission to help all islanders age well on Orcas!

Call for Aprons

The November Art Exhibit at the Orcas Senior Center will feature “Aprons and stories about your apron.” Please bring them to the senior center on Oct. 29, before 1 p.m. Special thanks to the Visual Arts Committee for bringing our walls to life with vibrant art shows every month!

Smart drivers

There is an “Age Well on Orcas by Helping Seniors Stay Independent” AARP Smart Driver Course on Oct. 25 and 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the multi-purpose room.

Americans are healthier. They are living longer. Some seniors are outliving their ability to drive safely by an average of seven to ten years, according to the American Automobile Association. Seniors are safe drivers compared to other age groups. They reduce the risk of injury by wearing safety belts and observing speed limits. The wisdom of age teaches them not to drink and drive.

Many older drivers recognize and avoid situations where their limitations put them at risk. They drive less after dark, in bad weather, and avoid difficult roads. Many older drivers fear to have to depend on others to get around. Medications, stiffness and hearing loss can cause driving to change over time. Encouraging an older driver to take a class can help. Most courses are self-rating programs and can help our seniors stay relevant on the road.

Presenter Maddie Rose teaches research-based driving strategies proven to keep you safe behind the wheel. She will help refresh driving skills and alert drivers to new rules of the road. Please note, many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete this course. Contact the front desk to sign up by calling 360-376-2677. Questions? Contact Vicki O’Keefe, OSC Nonprofit Program and Activities Coordinator, at 360-376-7723.

Appreciation event

The Orcas Senior Center will be holding its annual appreciation event on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 2–4 p.m. This event gives us the opportunity to bring our members, volunteers, organizational partners, and committee members together to appreciate all the hard work and effort put forth to offer services and programs here at the senior center, we couldn’t do it without you!

This event is free and the entire community is invited to join us for appetizers and time to give thanks. RSVP to orcasseniorcenter@gmail.com or call 360-376-7929 by Oct. 26.