Changing for the Better

"Changing for the better," is the new catchphrase for members of the Mason County Senior Activities Association (MCSAA), now that they've settled into their new home in Shelton's landmark Pavilion, behind Gillis Auto Center. 
          Indeed, change has lately affected every aspect of the group––the largest senior association in Mason County––beginning with the name of their new location, which replaces the former Mason Count Senior Activities Center.
          It is now called the 50 and Better Activities Center, says Terri Shaw, the group's executive director, to underscore the fact that for many people, their best years start in their 50s. 
          "You come into your best years in terms of wisdom, experience, and leisure time," Terri says. "And if you can reach out, find friends, and share experiences, life can take on a whole new depth and richness. Our Center also provides the opportunity for younger members to participate in activities with their parents. With people living longer, we are truly multi-generational, and we have expanded our offerings to cover a wide variety of interests at reasonable cost, especially in the fitness and van trip areas."
         As the "50 and Better" members grow into their much-expanded new center, they are making sure to accommodate the ongoing space rental business of the Pavilion.
          For many regular customers, it'll be business as usual at the Pavilion.
          The Pavilion, known for hosting some of Mason County's biggest and best events over the years, is now owned and operated by MCSAA, the same nonprofit organization that runs the 50 and Better Activities Center, as well as Nifty Thrifty, the group's retail thrift store. 

Terri Shaw Executive Director of MCSAA from 2009-2016

          "We're putting some new touches on the Pavilion, and looking at ways to improve or streamline service," Shaw says. "We're eager to work with other organizations in our community.  We look forward to continue to rent the facility for weddings, reunions, meetings and holiday events."
          Nifty Thrifty has also moved, replacing the former Senior Activities Center on Railroad Avenue in downtown Shelton. This is a larger location that gives Nifty Thrifty room to improve and grow.
          "Lots of changes, and lots of exciting times ahead," Shaw says. 
           Yet another change that the Mason County Senior Activities Association is adjusting to is the retirement of long time Executive Director Terri Shaw.  Terri gave a month's Notice and her retirement from the Association was effective July 13th.  The Association threw a huge party honoring her accomplishments and to recognize all of her contributions and the contributions of other outstanding Volunteers who have retired such as Ruth Coots, John Wyatt & Keiko Wyatt.  They will be missed as we move into the interview phase of finding a new Leader for the Association.