Life is an adventure! This program series can help you renew your curiosity, reach new goals, inspire new beginnings and connect you to your community. Explore the following, free programs about: Volunteering, Travel, Genealogy, Life and Career Skills, Health and Fitness, Food and Music.
Volunteer with Peace Corps at any Age
Presented by Linda Zahava (returned Peace Corps Volunteer)
Instead of retiring in her 60s, Linda Zahava volunteered to serve overseas with Peace Corps. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of her already satisfying life. Now, as a Regional Representative with Peace Corps, Linda will share fascinating stories of her life and work in Morocco and talk about the application process to become a Peace Corps Volunteer.
Tuesday, May 29, 7pm North Bend Library
Tuesday, June 26, 7pm Lake Hills Library
Thursday, June 28, 7pm Shoreline Library
Discover Your Family History: an Introduction to Genealogy
Presented by Claudia Breland
Interested in tracing your family history but don't know where to start? Claudia Breland, a professional genealogist with over 35 years of experience, will walk you through the early steps of this exciting pastime. Learn how to start filling out pedigree charts and interviewing relatives before you sit down at the computer and discover free resources available online and at the library. For beginners.
Monday, May 14, 7pm Snoqualmie Library
Wednesday, May 23, 6:30pm Algona Pacific Library
Thursday, May 31, 6:30pm Woodmont Library
Monday, June 4, 6:30pm Carnation Library
Beyond Ancestry.com: Searching for your ancestors online
Presented by Claudia Breland
Ancestry.com is one of the largest genealogy databases on the internet today, and they have the advertising dollars to make themselves known. However, there are many, many other online resources (most of them free) that can supplement the information you have on your family and fill in the missing puzzle pieces. Learn about census records, vital records, online newspapers, state archives and libraries, cemetery records, military records, and more. Note: those with basic to intermediate computer skills and some online experience will benefit most from this presentation.
Saturday, May 12, 2pm Maple Valley Library
Thursday, May 24, 6:30pm Redmond Library
Sunday, June 3, 2pm Vashon Library
Monday, June 18, 6:30 pm Carnation Library
Finding Your Ancestors in Historic Newspapers
Presented by Claudia Breland
There are many genealogy databases and family trees online where you can discover the names, dates and places of your ancestors' lives. That's the skeleton – now let's put flesh on the bones and faces to the names by discovering the stories your ancestors lived. We'll talk about the proliferation of newspaper databases online (both free and subscription) and how to obtain newspapers that are not online. Birth announcements, wedding notices, obituaries, and other stories illustrate the lives of those who came before us.
Monday, June 25, 6:30pm Carnation Library
Genealogy in the Computer Age
Presented by Claudia Breland
Searching for your ancestors used to mean keeping paper records, writing letters, and visiting courthouses. With the advent of widespread computer use, genealogical research has entered a new dimension. Claudia Breland, a professional genealogist with over 35 years of experience, will teach you how to choose and use genealogy software, online family trees, genealogy databases, and more. Note: those with basic to intermediate computer skills and some online experience will benefit most from this presentation.
Sunday, June 10, 2pm Bothell Library
Podcasts and Webinars and Blogs, Oh My! Genealogy education in the digital age
Presented by Claudia Breland
Want to learn more about how to research your family history? Now you can learn from home, at any time day or night, using your computer and online resources. Claudia Breland, a professional genealogist with over 35 years of experience, will teach you how to locate and download genealogy podcasts, sign up for and watch webinars, and find useful and educational blogs to read. Also covered will be social media such as Facebook and Twitter, for getting up-to-the-minute genealogy news. Note: those with basic to intermediate computer skills and some online experience will benefit most from this presentation.
Monday, June 18, 6:30pm Carnation Library
Celebrate Your Story!
Presented by Linda Kraus, M.A., Personal Historian
Saving family stories is a meaningful and significant endeavor, one that leaves a legacy for future generations. Local personal historian Linda Kraus discusses both the importance of, and methods for, preserving one's personal history. Participants will be introduced to a number of ideas, techniques, and resources; encouraged to share a story from their life; and afforded the opportunity to observe – and possibly participate in – an audio recording session. Registration required.
Saturday, May 12, 2pm Lake Forest Park Library
Saturday, June 9, 2pm Issaquah Library
Supported by the Friends of the Issaquah Library
Sunday, June 10, 2pm Des Moines Library
Saturday, June 16, 2pm Renton Library
If I'm Not A Writer, Why Should I Write Stories About My Life?
Presented by Joanne Horn, Director of Second Half Connections
This interactive presentation demonstrates the fun and value of recalling stories from our lives, writing them down, and sharing them with family and friends.
Sunday, June 3, 1:30pm Newport Way Library
Sunday, June 17, 2pm Vashon Library
Thursday, June 7, 7:30pm Federal Way Library
Understanding and Building Your Personal Safety Net
Presented by Ben Kaufman
This workshop helps people assess and build "personal safety nets" for themselves, those close to them, their communities, or their organizations. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained valuable insights for improving their "people gathering" skills, their asking and inclusion skills, and their ability to deal with whichever of life's twists and turns are staring them in the face. Simply put, workshop attendees move ahead towards a positive vision and goal. Registration is recommended.
Friday, May 18, 2pm Lake Hills Library
Rick Steves' Travel as a Volunteer
Presented by Joyce Major
Joyce Major, author of "Smiling at the World," shares her experience with her "voluntourism" travels. There are many volunteer opportunities like helping at the Cat Sanctuary in Italy, helping with archeology in France, teaching English in Spain, working with conservation and wildlife in England and more. Get closer to the local community by working side by side with them in their pursuits. Perhaps you can share your expertise on something that may add to their culture as well.
Saturday, May 5, 1pm Kent Library
Thursday, May 31, 7pm White Center Library
Saturday, June 30, 2pm Vashon Library
Rick Steves ' Europe 101: Art and History for Travelers
After years of travel in Europe, we've distilled what you need to know in order to fully appreciate the sights and culture. And just as important, we know what you don't need to know, so you won't walk away from the class feeling like you just ate an encyclopedia. You'll get a crash course in understanding Medieval feudalism, Renaissance art, Gothic architecture, ancient Greek life, and plenty more. Learn how and why things were done — from castle construction to elegant court life to the rise of Venice to the fall of Rembrandt. It's a class for smart people who fell asleep in their European art and history courses before they knew they were going to Europe.
Thursday, June 14, 7pm Shoreline Library
Saturday, June 16, 2pm Vashon Library
Rick Steves' Best of Europe
The best that Europe has to offer: the must-sees — Amsterdam, Venice, Florence, Rome and Paris — and all of their artistic treasures. Plus Europe's quieter treasures, like Germany's castle-coated Rhine River Valley and medieval Rothenburg, the alpine countryside charms of Austria and Switzerland, Italy's sun-drenched Cinque Terre villages and beautiful French Burgundy.
Thursday, May 24, 7pm Boulevard Park Library
Rick Steves' Italy
You'll almost be able to smell the linguini and taste the vino rosso as we explore enchanting Italy. The north is home to cosmopolitan Milan, time-tripping Venice, serene lakes, and the Alpine Dolomites. In central Italy we'll visit the Renaissance capital of Florence and the quaint hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria. On the Italian Riviera, the Cinque Terre's rocky coastlines and tiny villages are the epitome of picturesque. We'll wrap things up with the eternal city, amazing Rome.
Sunday, May 20, 2pm Des Moines Library
Tuesday, May 29, 7pm Covington Library
Rick Steves' Village Italy
Italy is just as exciting out in the countryside. Join us as we drink in a rich blend of wine-cellared villages, countryside vistas, artisan visits, and button-popping home-cooked meals. Visit places most people only dream about: Juliet's Verona, Byzantine Ravenna, St Francis' Assisi, Tuscany and Umbria, and the storybook islands of Lake Maggiore.
Wednesday, May 9, 7pm Burien Library
Rick Steves' Biking Europe
Gordon Black, a former public radio journalist has traveled the byways and bike paths of Europe over the last thirty years. He will share his knowledge from the rail-trails of Spain to the North Sea Cycle Route meandering from Scotland to Holland and Norway. Europe has an alluring list of places to ride a bicycle. Its combination of great scenery and inviting small roads is best seen up-close and slowly from a bicycle seat. Many Americans are discovering what Europeans themselves have been enjoying for decades — relaxed bicycle rides that provide an intimate look at in scenically diverse corners of Europe.
Tuesday, May 22, 7pm Kenmore Library
Rick Steves' Walking the Camino de Santiago
Learn about Spain's Medieval Pilgrimage route , trekking across 500 miles of diverse country side. This historic hike is alive and thriving as people of all beliefs, from every corner of the globe, follow in the footsteps of those who have walked this way for hundreds of years. Marcia will share information about accommodations, trail markings, packing and equipment, and photographs of the landscape.
Saturday, June 23, 2pm Bothell Library
Rick Steves' Packing Light and Right
You'll learn now or you'll learn later: The first step to a great trip is packing light — don't weigh yourself down! You can travel for months with one carry-on size bag and still have everything you need for a great trip. We'll distribute packing lists, show off the latest in lightweight luggage, and demonstrate a professionally packed bag.
Thursday, June 21, 6:30pm Fall City Library
Wednesday, July 18, 7pm Maple Valley Library
Rick Steves' Digital Travel Photography
Great travel photos are only a button press away with the help of professional photographer, John Greengo. In his uniquely visual photography class, you will be treated to an ensemble of illustrations, animations and great photographs that make learning your camera and and the art of photography fun and easy.
Sunday, May 6, 2 pm Kingsgate Library
Rick Steves' Paris
Paris is synonymous with beauty, romance, great art museums, and fine cuisine. We'll explore the ins and outs of finding good, affordable hotels and restaurants, the best seasons for visiting, and how to organize your sightseeing. You'll also learn about the many day trips possible from Paris, including Versailles, Giverny and Chartres.
Saturday, May 12, 2pm Kirkland Library
Supported by the Friends of the Library of Kirkland
Rick Steves' European Travel Skills
For 30 years, Rick Steves and his staff have been taking careful notes so you can learn from their mistakes rather than your own. We'll teach you the secrets of safe, smart, inexpensive travel — low on stress and high on fun. You'll learn how to plan an efficient itinerary, pack light, and find Europe's off-beat nooks and intimate crannies. You'll maximize adventure and minimize crowds, eat and sleep comfortably on less than $100 per day, choose great budget hotels, and navigate Europe's excellent rail system with ease. Forget about expensive vacations in big American-style hotels. We'll teach you how to experience the real Europe...through the back door!
Saturday, May 12, 2pm Fairwood Library
Supported by the Friends of the Fairwood Library
Guide to Falling Down: Stories about Finding Balance On and Off the Bicycle
Presented by Joe Kurmaskie
All new stories and images from Joe "Metal Cowboy" Kurmaskie's latest book, Guide to Falling Down: Stories about Finding Balance On and Off the Bicycle. Experience Joe's travel adventures by bicycle: from Costa Rica to Australia, Africa to Canada, Italy to Mexico. Joe tackles why we take to the road and how we make it mean something. Joe Kurmaskie is a syndicated columnist, bestselling author, and cable TV personality. He has been addicted to the intoxicating freedom and power of the bicycle ever since he "borrowed" his big sister's banana-seat bike at the age of five.
Sunday, May 20, 2pm Vashon Library
Social Security Administration – SSA 101 Understanding the Benefits
Presented by Kirk Larson, Western Washington Public Affairs Specialist
Join us for an overview of Social Security programs and its future. Topics will include: Retirement, Survivor, Spouse, Disability and Medicare benefits.
Friday, June 8, 2pm Lake Hills Library
Thursday, July 12, 11:30am Fairwood Library
"The Swingin' With Dean" Show
Presented by Dean Ratzman
Dean sings and performs on piano, trumpet, and trombone, '40's swing through '70's jazz, blues, rock, and soul hits! Originally from Port Angeles, Washington, Dean plays solo all around North America.
Thursday, June 14, 7pm Bothell Library
Friday, June 15, 12pm Maple Valley Community Center
Saturday, June 16, 2pm Fairwood Library
Monday, June 18, 7pm Richmond Beach Library
Presented by the Friends of Richmond Beach Library
Thursday, June 28, 7pm Kirkland Library
Thursday, July 19, 6pm Carnation Library
Thursday, July 26, 6pm Burien Library
Senior Housing and In-Home Care Options
Presented by Terry Fontaine, Linda Fuhrman & Les Ostermeier
For the next 20 years, 9-10 thousand Washington residents will turn 65 every month. Learn the many options available for seniors, including housing (from independent living communities to memory care), in-home care and remodeling options to secure a safer home environment.
Linda Furhman has 30 years marketing, sales and management experience including 10 years in the senior living and care industry.
Saturday, May 5, 2pm Vashon Library
Saturday, May 12, 2:30pm Renton Library
Positive Psychology – The Key to Happiness
Presented by Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director, Northwest Center for Creative Aging
This workshop presents concepts and practices from key researchers in the field of Positive Psychology. Learn to pay attention to how we think, what we say to ourselves, and how we interact with others so that we are happier and healthier.
Monday, May 21, 7pm Kirkland Library
Presented by the Friends of the Library of Kirkland
A Matter of Taste – Food and its Attractions
Presented by Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director, Northwest Center for Creative Aging
Explore some of the fascinating aspects of food from a variety of perspectives: our own food memories and experiences, food lore, and the many cuisines we have around us. This interactive class will include some basics of flavor, taste and preparation, and easy-to-prepare recipes and menus. Rebecca Crichton was a caterer, recipe developer and food writer. She blogs about food (among other things) and qualifies as a serious "Foodie."
Saturday, May 12, 2pm Shoreline Library
Thursday, May 24, 7pm Renton Highlands Library
The 3C's© model: Contribute, Collaborate, Create
Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director, Northwest Center for Creative Aging
The 3C's© model: Contribute, Collaborate, Create, offers a rich experience for self-discovery through understanding what is personally important and meaningful. Going through a 3C's conversation reminds people about their own history and the legacy they are still in the process of creating. The 3C's conversation group is meant to help people enhance their ideas and become more empowered, hopeful and energized about the possibilities in their lives.
Thursday, May 10, 7pm Shoreline Library
Saturday, June 16, 11am Kent Library
Help Meet Community Needs Through RSVP Volunteering
RSVP is a National Service Program which meets community needs by encouraging and supporting volunteering for people 55 and older. The program includes information about the benefits of volunteering through RSVP, how to get started when you are ready to volunteer and community volunteer opportunities.
Saturday, May 19, 2pm Renton Library
Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters
What is the difference between typical age-related memory changes and Alzheimer's disease? How do I know if I need to be concerned about myself or a loved one? What do I do if I think there might be a problem? We will discuss the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's, the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, why early detection is important, and how Alzheimer's is diagnosed. Please note: this presentation is not appropriate for the person with significant memory impairment.
Tuesday, June 12, 7pm Covington Library
Tuesday, June 19, 7pm Lake Hills Library
American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7
Presented by Cherish Hart
The presentation will cover the American Heart Association's "Life's Simple 7" platform for heart health. These seven simple steps are the proven key ingredients to having a healthy heart and living a healthier life.
Tuesday, May 8, 7pm Lake Hills Library
Thursday, June 21, 7pm Boulevard Park Library
Sunday, June 24, 2pm Bothell Library
Thursday, July 19, 1pm Federal Way Library
Mid-Life Career Changing in the New Economy
Presented in partnership with the King County Library System, WorkSource, and South Seattle Community College WorkSource.
This course is designed to help participants analyze and understand the problem of 'Ageism', how age discrimination affects their job search and most importantly what they can do to empower themselves and find meaningful work in this difficult job market. Along with specific focus on job search skills and resources, there will be a special emphasis on 'mid-life career changes' and 'technology as a job search tool'.
Tuesday, May 1, 7pm Fairwood Library
Wednesday, May 9, 7pm Shoreline Library
Tuesday May 15, 7pm Lake Hills Library
Saturday, June 2, 2:15pm Vashon Library
Tuesday, June 5, 7pm Maple Valley Library
Tuesday, June 12, 7pm Issaquah Library
Tuesday, June 26, 7pm Boulevard Park Library
Wednesday, June 27, 7pm Woodinville
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