Written by Carolyn Kulik, published in The Charlotte News.
“I arise in the morning, torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.” ~ E.B. White
This quote probably describes the state of mind of many of our Senior Center visitors. Being ‘retired’ seems to have the image of bored, older citizens at loose ends with not much to do. On the contrary, our participants have trouble fitting another course or activity into their daily schedules with family and volunteering with many, many organizations. One common refrain is: “I’d love to do that, but I just don’t have the time.” It certainly makes planning programs a challenge!
Today, Oct. 17, at 1 p.m., will be an unusual presentation: “Dementia Simulation: A Walk in Their Shoes.” This simulation is intended for caregivers or those whose loved ones may have been diagnosed with dementia. Volunteers use sensory-deprivation devices, try to perform simple tasks, and describe how they felt with the aim of fostering experiential insight and empathy. This event is led by Anika Bachofen, Reflections Director at the Residence at Shelburne Bay.
You know you have secretly wanted to drum for years – and now is your chance: There are two more sessions of Drumming with Stuart Paton on Friday 10/19 and 10/26, from 1:30-2:30. No sticks are involved – these sessions use African djembe drums which are struck with the hands. Be brave and do something different! And, it is possible that Drumming could continue into November – or into the Winter Schedule. Please call the Center at 425-6345 to leave your name and phone number to register – or to indicate your interest about these additional options as soon as possible.
On Sunday, Oct. 21, the monthly Shape-note Sing is from 1-3pm. The Charlotte VT Shape-Noters welcome newcomers and experienced singers every month (3rd Sundays), to sing traditional 4-part harmony from the Sacred Harp Songbook, Dennison 1991. Stop by to listen or sing, and leave whenever you wish. (Note: This is not a concert or a course.) Loaner books are available. No registration is necessary; no fee.
The next five-session series ($75) of Feldenkrais begins on Tues., Oct. 23, from 1-2pm. If you have questions about this intriguing mind/body approach to wellness, feel free to contact the instructor, Mischul Brownstone, at 425-3355 or at mischul@accessvt.com.
Fall Hike #5 meets at 8:30 a.m. on Tues., Oct. 23, to go to Poke-O-Moonshine, Keesville, NY. Please stop by or call the Senior Center for more hike details. No fee, but registration is required.
On Tuesday, 10/23 at 2:15, Session II of French Conversation Circle continues through Nov. Newcomers who are fluent enough to carry on a conversation in French are welcome at any time. Not a speaker yet – or want to learn the basics for a trip, perhaps? If there is enough interest, there will be a short series of Beginning French – starting November 11/6 from 1:00-2:00. This is not in the Fall Schedule, so please call to register if you are interested. Cost will be $12 per class.
On Wed., 10/24 “South China Sea Dangers” at 1pm is a presentation and discussion with Dr. David Rosenberg, an internationally recognized expert in this area. With rising tariffs and expanded trade conflict, the US/China relationship has lately become tenser. Added into this mix is the Chinese military build-up which has been happening for the past several years there, and the risk of dangerous encounters increases in this relatively small maritime space. No registration necessary; no fee.
On Wednesday mornings, at 10 a.m., come Out for a Stroll on the Charlotte Town Link Trail – with Ajat Traiyal. These walks on this flat, gravel path are a great chance to get outdoors with others. Weather permitting, there will be strolls Oct. 17, 24 and 31. Please call to register with your phone number in case of cancellation. Ajat would like a minimum of five. No fee.
Be part of the Annual Fudge Fest coming up. Stop by soon to pick up the fudge ingredients and recipe. And don’t forget to sign up for the gathering at 1:00 on Oct. 31 to make popcorn balls, wrap fudge, and pack bags for trick-or-treaters. A great chance to be part of the community fun.
Coming in November
Starting Thurs., Nov.1, is Origami for the Holidays where you can make holiday ornaments from decorative, folded papers. Three afternoons 12:30-2:00, $30 for the course. Please call or stop in to register in advance.
Starting Monday, Nov. 5 at 1:00 p.m., is the Nov. Book Group which will discuss America Is Not the Heart, by Elaine Castillo. This is a fictional look at an immigrant family and the history they bring with them as they try to build new lives in America. The group meets at the Senior Center with Library Director Margaret Woodruff. Books are available the library. Please register. No fee.
Also starting on Nov. 5, for 3 sessions, from 1:30-3:00, is Altered Books. Artist and educator Linda Finkelstein will show you how to use a discarded hardcover book as a canvas of sorts to add images, writing, and found objects to create a personal, visual story.
On Tues., Nov. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon is Acrylics & Mixed Media with Lynn Cummings. In four, three-hour sessions, Lynn will present some fun, intuitive painting projects. Pre-registration is required for the supply list.
Art News
October Art Exhibit of Deborah Boutilier-Paolantonio’s oil painting and pastels will be coming down at the end of this month. Her work has received many positive comments from visitors; try not to miss this show.
Viewing Art Shows: Since the Center is utilized for many classes and events, the best times to see art shows in the summer are: Tues., Wed., and Fri. after 3:00; Thursdays after 12:30. Call the Center to check on Sunday availability.
Lots more going on this month and in November with ongoing programs and courses (exercise, art, games). You can always visit the town website at CharlotteVT.org and click on the Senior Center tab for descriptions of all the course listings in the Fall Schedule, as well as the three-month daily calendar. Questions? Call the Center at (802)425-6345.
COMING SOON is our very own website with more information about the Senior Center – as well as answers to questions you didn’t even know you had.
See you soon.