Senior Center News: Jan. 25

Calling all creative spirits! The Senior Center Community Art Show, now in its 11th year, has become a favorite among our community of artists. This year the show will be held during the month of February and is open to everyone 50 years or older. All mediums are welcome, and there is a two-piece limit so everyone will have a chance to see their work displayed in the Great Room. Registration forms are located in the foyer, with a deadline for submitting of Wednesday, Jan. 25. Mark your calendars and join us for a reception for the artists, friends and relatives on Wednesday, March 1, at 1:00 pm.

You are invited to an exciting tour of the great works of classical music and opera. Join music professor and composer Damon Ferrante for Classical Music Conversations on Friday mornings, Jan. 27, Feb. 10 and 24 from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Part conversation and part educational, this lively listening and discussion group provides us all with opportunities to explore the wonderful music of these great composers and to socialize along the way. We will have fun learning about the music of Beethoven, Mozart, Ravel and Verdi. Open to anyone who enjoys (or is curious about) classical music. Some of the sessions will also feature live performances by talented Vermont musicians. Registration required. No fee.

Unleash your creative spirit! On Wednesday morning, Feb. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., join Sabina Evarts for our once-a-month craft offering. We will be Celebrating the Chinese New Year, and Sabina will demonstrate how to make decorative origami pieces with a Chinese theme to go along with the luncheon meal. You do not have to already be an artist, and this could open that part of you! A sample of the craft will be available in the foyer at the Center prior to class so you can see what we will be making. All materials will be supplied. Registration required. Max. 8. No fee.

Understanding Nonverbal Communication will be the topic Tuesday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Dates: February 7, 14, 21 and 28. Posture. Eye contact and blinking. Gestures. Tone and pitch. Gait. Body type and clothing choices. How much of our communication is nonverbal? This Great Course will view the scope of nonverbal communication through the lens of science, led on DVD by Dr. Mark Frank, a professor and chair of the Department of Communication, as well as the director of the Communication Science Center at SUNY at Buffalo. In 12 revealing lectures, you’ll explore the history, evolution and context of both the outright obvious and the sublimely subtle nuances of personal expression. Throughout this course, you will explore the role of nonverbal communication as it relates to understanding. With careful observation, you can capitalize on this science to further appreciate human expression, smooth social interactions and strengthen relationships. Registration required. No fee.

A collection of lectures, performances and special events showcasing the diverse interests of our community. Wednesday afternoon beginning at 1 o’clock. No registration or fee.

1/25. Land of the Thunder Dragon with Carl Herzog. Join Carl Herzog as he takes us on a photographic journey to Bhutan, “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” A Himalayan Buddhist kingdom sandwiched between China and India, Bhutan is noted for its remoteness and uniqueness. (Where else is gross national happiness more important than gross domestic product?) Carl has made two trekking visits to Bhutan and will introduce us to the scenery and culture of this fantastic country.

2/1. A Look at Nepal with Sandi Detwiler. Resilient people, historical sites and breath-taking natural beauty! Rick and Sandi had the privilege of living in Nepal for several months in 2012, before the devastating earthquake of 2015. Although Nepal is a poor, landlocked country struggling with the aftermath of the earthquake, it is a tolerant country where Hindus and Buddhists live side by side. Her pictures tell a story of the history, the challenges and the perseverance of Nepali people.