Senior Center News – November 14, 2019
“. . .I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit. I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. . .”
~ Og Mandino
One of my favorite images of wintertime is a clear, starry moonlit night with snow-covered fields and lights glowing in the window of houses. Silent and lovely; for me, it makes the long darkness very enjoyable.
Halloween
Halloween has come and gone again, and we are now into the full-blown holiday season. We enjoyed it here with folks making popcorn balls and fudge and then packing everything up for trick or treaters. Consider putting it on your to-do list for next year—we always welcome more helpers—and it is a minimal time commitment.
November
On Monday, 11/18, at 11:30 a.m., the Senior Center welcomes the return of Chef Arnd Sievers from the Residence at Shelburne Bay. The menu above looks terrific (as usual)—and his meals always prove to be very popular, so be sure to arrive in time to park for the 11:30 start of lunch. If you can possibly carpool, that would be great.
On Wednesday, 11/20, at noon, is our Annual Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. The signup sheet is already full, and we are taking names for the waiting list. Again, be sure to give yourself time to park, and if at all possible, please try to carpool—since the Charlotte Library parking lot is shut down for construction. This is a wonderful event with many volunteers helping to make it all so enjoyable.
Note that the next issue of The Charlotte News will be published on 12/5, so the menus for 12/2 and 12/4 are: Monday, 12/2 (at 11:30 a.m.), Philo Ridge Farm (another of our generous culinary neighbors) will be returning to prepare a delicious lunch. On Wednesday, 12/4 (at noon, with reservations), the menu is winter comfort food: meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, homemade birthday cake and ice cream.
December
The new Winter Schedule will appear a bit late in the 12/5 issue of The Charlotte News, but don’t worry. That first week of December has just three new items—and none require preregistration. Mostly, the week is a continuation of the ongoing exercise classes.
On Monday, 12/2, from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., tickets from the Age Well Universal Restaurant Ticket Program will again be available at the Senior Center. The tickets ($5 donation) are good for meals at participating local restaurants on specific days and times. You must be 60 years of age, and you will be able to register on the spot. Tickets are good for one year and are not transferrable. This opportunity is offered here the first Monday of every month. These restaurant tickets offer a great chance to get out and have a very affordable meal. Please bring cash or check.
On Wednesday, 12/4, at 1:00 p.m., join us for the Senior Center’s Annual Tree Trimming in the Great Room with a great tree generously gifted to the Senior Center (once again) by Gary and Donna Pittman.
A bit later, also on Wednesday, 12/4, from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m., join Jill Abilock for a resumption of Mindfulness Meditation. There is no fee and no registration required. Walk-ins are welcome.
Postscript
The Wednesday afternoon talk on 11/6 about U.S.–China Rivalry was very well received. Dr. Rosenberg gave a balanced, info-packed presentation on the political dynamic in that part of the globe. Hopefully he will be back next fall with another fascinating topic.
Art & Music
On Sunday, 11/17, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. is Shape-Note Singing in the Great Room. This traditional a cappella, four-part harmony has been called “full-body, shout-it-out singing.” Yes, there is a learning curve, and it’s not for everyone, but a good voice is not required and it’s a relaxed, interesting group. Full disclosure: Many years ago, before I had ever sung it, I gave away my first CD of shape-note music. Didn’t like it. And now, I am a devotee of sorts. (It happens from singing—not listening.) Songbooks are provided. Stop by to listen or sing, and leave whenever you wish. No fee.
The “Gathering of Hooked Work” Art Exhibit continues throughout November with 28 works by 13 artists. Don’t miss this show—it’s been getting rave reviews from visitors.
Beginning in December and continuing through the end of January come in to view the new Art Exhibit: “Challenge Quilts ~ Black & White plus One.” These are the responses to the challenge put to the Champlain Valley Quilters to use only three colors. There are nearly two dozen entries, and the winners of the contest will be indicated. Put this one on your calendar, and be sure to give yourself enough time to stroll around the Great Room viewing these pieces.
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, on the CVSD website, as well as on our website. [Please note that the Senior Center does not close during school vacations.]
The best times to see the Art Exhibit in November
Mondays at noon, Tuesdays after 12:30, Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. – noon,
Thursdays after 12:30 p.m., Fridays after 12:30 p.m. Please call the Center during the week to check on Sunday availability.
Do visit our website, for more details and menus. If you have questions, would like to register or ask about volunteering, please call (802) 425-6345, or stop by Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m.
We are at 212 Ferry Road, 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. And if there is a course or an event/speaker you would like to suggest, we are always open to exploring new possibilities.
Stop in and say hello. See you soon!
Charlotte Senior Center
(802) 425-6345
Senior Lunches
Monday Munch
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
No reservations required.
November 18
Beef, vegetable & barley soup, roasted butternut squash risotto with grilled breast of chicken, or Mushroom & onion quiche with greens and dressing,
rolls & butter, chocolate mousse cups
(courtesy of the Residence at Shelburne Bay)
November 25
Fire-roasted eggplant and tomato soup, greens, blueberry custard pie
Wednesday Lunch
All diners eat at noon. Reservations required.
November 20
Annual traditional Thanksgiving dinner
November 27
Broccoli quiche, greens, homemade dessert
Thursday Gents Breakfast
7:00 a.m – 9:00 a.m. Reservations required.
November 14
Bob Chutter’s apple pancakes
Topic – Paul Wagonhoffer’s stories & scenes from Cairo: 1977-79
(Keep up to date on Menus at our website, and on Front Porch Forum, as they sometimes change.)