Rambles

If you are hearing “Pomp and Circumstance” a lot lately, that’s because May brings with it the commencement ceremonies happening at high schools and universities across the state. This month is also a time to reflect on the sacrifice of military personnel killed in battle. Americans also associate Memorial Day weekend with the official start of summer, and that’s no different in Alaska, where you may have noticed scenic byways getting more congested with tourists … Many coastal communities have shorebird festivals, such as the Cooper River Delta Shorebird Festival in Cordova, May 1-4, the Kachemak Shorebird Festival in Homer, May 7-11, and the Seward Seabird Festival, May 30-June 1. The Audubon Society has listings for many of them. https://ak.audubon.org/birds/alaskas-2025-bird-festivals If you missed signing up or reserving for this year, put a note in your calendar for next spring … In honor of Older Americans Month, the Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks & Recreation Department will host a catered luncheon and awards ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 8 at the Carlson Center, 2010 2nd Ave. The last day to send in a nomination for a senior from the borough was March 20. Categories of achievement are outstanding volunteer, lifetime fitness, model of health, and honored caregiver. If you missed the deadline or don’t live in Fairbanks, you can still honor the Elder in your life with a lunch out or a small gift that says you’re glad they are in your life. This event is part of Fairbanks’ 50+ Art & Science of Aging Summit, which goes on at the Carlson Center May 8 and May 9 … The Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center is having its 10th annual military appreciation gala on May 17. You can register here. https://chugiakseniors.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F15892 You can honor the active duty or veteran in your life by buying a table or a seat at the gala, which will be held at the center, 22424 Birchwood Loop Road … Wasilla Area Seniors Inc., 1301 S. Century Circle, is having a Mother’s Day Tea at 11 a.m. on May 10. This gathering will raise funds for Meals on Wheels while celebrating mothers and loved ones with an afternoon of tea, delicious treats, and great company. Seating is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot. An online auction will run from May 6–10, allowing supporters to bid on unique items and experiences to further benefit WASI’s senior nutrition programs. Tickets for the tea are $50 per person, and reservations can be made online at wasillaseniors.com. For more details on these events, to register, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit wasillaseniors.com or contact Aaron King at aaronk@alaskaseniors.com or call 907-206-8800 … If you just want to bang a gong, check out Gail Johnson’s drumming circle on the first Saturday of the month at the at the Anchorage Mountain View Library, 120 Bragaw St., from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Johnson is a movement therapist. The event is free.

Rambles is compiled from senior center newsletters, websites and reader tips from around the state. Email your Rambles items to editor@seniorvoicealaska.com.