Written by Carolyn Kulik, published in The Charlotte News.

Panic causes tunnel vision. Calm acceptance of danger allows us to more easily assess the situation and see the options. ~ Simon Sinek


The best way to succeed is to have a specific Intent, a clear Vision, a plan of Action, and the ability to maintain Clarity. Those are the Four Pillars of Success. It never fails!” ~ Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free

The common eye sees only the outside of things, and judges by that, but the seeing eye pierces through and reads the heart and the soul. ~ Mark Twain

Being able to see into a crystal ball would be lovely, but one of the fun things about putting the schedule together at the Senior Center is a certain degree of unpredictability: Some course offerings can take off – and others just do not get enough signups up to run. A case of the former is Basic Cartooning which has gotten an excellent response. It was one which I thought might not generate much interest, but I decided to offer it, anyhow. It is really exciting to see people willing to try something quite a bit out of the ordinary.
Another pleasant surprise is EssentricsTM – a new exercise course which is now full. Everyone has been so enthusiastic that it will be offered on two different mornings (Wed. and Fri.) in the spring, although there will be a fee for it in this coming season.


Upcoming Courses & Events
Fri., 1/13 from 12:30- 3:30, Unique Impressions
In this three-hour workshop, enjoy the process of printmaking without a press by using super-sensitive gelli plates. Each print will be one-of-a-kind! These prints can be further included in mixed media work, or used as cards – or as pages for a handmade book. You will also have the opportunity to design your own personal “stamp” which then can be added as an identifying symbol to your works. Fee $35, includes materials. Pre-registration required.


Mon., 1/27, from 10:00-11:30, iPad for Beginners.
This one-day, hands-on class will cover home screen navigation, basic gestures, connecting to WiFi, common settings, and finding and installing apps—with time for practice and questions. Please bring your iPad, preferably updated to the latest iOS. No fee. Registration is required.


Wed., 1/29, from 10:00-11:00, Short Stories for Winter
Dates: Wed. 1/29-2/19. Library Director Margaret Woodruff will lead the four-part discussion at the Senior Center. Possible readings are pieces by Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Twain, and Chekov; your suggestions invited. Registration required. No fee. Reading packets available at the Charlotte Library.


Sun., 2/2, from 2:00-3:30, The Circle of Life and Native American Belief Systems
Don Stevens, current Chief of the Nulhegan Abenaki Tribe, will speak about the Circle of Life and its connection to Native American belief systems. No fee. No registration.


Mon., 2/7, from 10:30-11:30, Age Well Universal Restaurant Tickets
Sorry, the tickets are not really universal – but they can be used at participating restaurants on designated days and times. They are a great way to get out with friends and have a meal for very little (a $5 donation – which does not include a tip). It can give you some variety or a chance to try something new. More than one ticket can be purchased at a time; they are not transferrable; and they are good until 9/30/20. Stop by the Senior Center to purchase, or to speak with Pat Long about the program details when she is here.


Thurs., 2/13, from 12;30-3:30, Creating Handmade Books
In this three-hour workshop, learn how to make a simple hand-sewn book and also an accordion book. Bring items to collage for the creation of fabulous books with imagery and words. Fee $35, includes materials. Pre-registration required.

Health Event
A friendly reminder that our Blood Drive is Thurs., 2/6, from 2:00-7:00. If you’ve never been here, it’s very comfortable – with genial hosts and great snacks. To volunteer to donate, please call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767, or go to redcrossblood.org.
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WEDNESDAY Afternoon – Free Events at 1pm. No registration
1/29: First Aid Basics ~ A Review with John Snow
In this introduction to First Aid, participants will learn a number of basic skills, as well as a simple process for determining what might be wrong with a patient and how to provide appropriate assistance. Included will be information about several common medical emergencies and injury types. No previous training is necessary, and all are welcome. [Please note that this is not a certification class.]

2/5: Secrets of Mt. Philo with Judy Chaves
The history of Mt Philo, Vermont’s first state park, is as remarkable as the view from its summit. Come learn about this gem in our backyard: why it is the way it is, and where evidence of its history lies hidden in plain sight—through slides, historic maps, turn-of-the-20th century descriptions of the mountain, and even poetry.

2/12: More Paths to Wellness ~ with a panel of four professionals
Take this opportunity to learn about other paths to wellness from the four very experienced and well-trained panel members who will introduce their special fields briefly, with time for your questions. Panel members are: Emelia Brogna, Doctor of Physical Therapy; Mischul Brownstone, Guild Certified Feldenkrais Teacher®; Tina D’Amato, Doctor of Osteopathy; and Liesje Smith, Certified RolferTM.


Art News
The lovely January Art Exhibit: “Challenge Quilts ~ Black & White Plus One” continues until 1/31. The February Art Exhibit is 2020 Hindsight: A 25-year Retrospective of Barbara Waters’ Artistic Explorations. Her work includes abstract personal reflections and nature-inspired works in oil, acrylic, gouache, graphite, and collage, as well as collagraph and monotype prints. The 12-panel oil, “Lifeline,” honors the emergence of life from the void, its dance through time, and disappearance back into the void. Don’t miss this one – and be sure to check on viewing times. All are invited to the Artist’s Reception on Sat., 2/8 from 1:30-3:30.

The best times to see ART in Jan. & Feb. ~
Mon. & Wed. at noon,
Thurs. after 12:30 (except 2/6),
Fri. after 12:30
Please call the Center during the week  to check on Sunday availability.

If you have questions, would like to register, or ask about volunteering – please call 425-6345, or stop by M-F from 9-4.
We are at 212 Ferry Rd., Charlotte, right across from the post office. The Senior Center’s mission is to serve those 50 and up. Residents from other communities are always welcome. There are no membership fees.

Stop in and say hello. See you soon!

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Winter Weather Closings
When there is iffy weather, remember that the Senior Center follows the school closures of Champlain Valley School District (CVSD). Closings are announced on local TV and radio stations, at CVSDVT.org, as well as on our website: CharlotteSeniorCenterVT.org. and phone message.