As local entertainment venues and social locations remain closed during the ongoing spread of COVID-19, senior centers are no exception. Often filled with all kinds of activity from pickleball games to bridge matches, senior centers are a staple in the community, but most likely won’t reopen for a while.
But there is hope: The community centers have been hosting virtual social, educational and physical events online. Below, find out where you can sign up to get reconnected with local residents and your nearby community center for the rest of July, all from the safety of home. All events are free and open to the public, and are geared toward audiences aged 55 and older.
“Secrets Revealed” Art Education Series
Monday, July 20, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
If you’ve taken up a new art hobby during quarantine or are simply seeking out some social time with other artists, this series is an exploration of famous artists and their techniques, which may be classified as sometimes “secretive.” Jen Droblyen will host this online series to discuss the artistry, methods and more, and welcomes your questions and inquiries about the artists and art styles.
Questions from Your Garden
Monday, July 20, 1-2:30 p.m.
Gardening has become a common hobby during the era of social distancing, and whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you might still have questions. In this virtual event, you can send all of your questions to Kirsten Conrad, agriculture natural resource extension agent, of the Virginia Cooperative Extension, and listen in on other local resident’s inquiries about all of their planting, growing and gardening needs.
Mac/iPhone/iPad Tutoring Sessions
Wednesday, July 22, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Getting the hang of your Apple device is challenging, especially when you’re using it more than ever to connect with your family and friends, and access all kinds of information online. If you’re needing some one-on-one help or simply a chance to learn more tips and tricks, schedule a free appointment in one of the three time slots with Lowell Nelson. Lowell is happy to meet with you and answer your questions, and give you the confidence to use your Apple device with ease.
Genealogy in Three Parts
Wednesday, July 22, 1-2 p.m.
This weekly Q&A session is an extension of three previous workshops on getting to know and discover your family’s genealogy. Hosted by Susan Court, each weekly session allows attendees to ask questions, get additional resources and information, and share what they’ve found about their own family history. If you’re eager to find out more about your own family or start the process, check here to prepare before logging on to this week’s virtual event.
Travel Trivia (Theme: South America)
Thursday, July 23, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
In-person trivia games have been canceled for the time being, meaning we’re all going to have to wait to get back into that fun, team-based and competitive environment again, but don’t miss out on this at-home trivia opportunity. You can play as an individual or with a partner, and this week’s theme is based on travel trivia from South America. Virtual prizes will be awarded too.
Acoustic Hour
Friday, July 24, 1-2 p.m.
We’re all missing live music and local concerts right about now, especially at the height of their popularity during the warm summer evenings. Tune in virtually to this acoustic session, featuring rock and roll songs, folk songs, ballads and the blues played by Ed Girovasi. Not only will you get to enjoy the music, but you might just meet a few new friends along the way.
Lafayette Square: The Crossroads of History Once Again
Wednesday, July 29, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
A recent focal point in the nationwide protests for racial injustice and police brutality is no stranger to being on front pages and in headlines: Lafayette Square has been etched in history in multiple instances, and if you’re interested in learning more about the location’s back story, join author and journalist Gil Klein to discuss past incidents and more at this virtual event.
Travel Paint n’ Sip Demo
Thursday, July 30, 10-11:30 a.m.
What’s art without a little fun mixed in? Grab the necessary supplies (listed in the registration information) and print a photo of the art the course will be following, and you can join along with other local residents as you learn new art techniques and create your own masterpiece. The best part? You get to have your favorite homemade drink nearby, and you can make as many as you want in your own kitchen!
The Path Forward: The Future of Senior Living
Thursday, July 30, 1-2 p.m.
The coronavirus global pandemic has placed a lot of tough questions on the future of senior living. How will families know if it is safe to let their relatives live in an assisted living facility or rehabilitation center? What questions should they be asking before making decisions for the future? In this virtual event, Lindsay Hutter, chief strategy and marketing officer for the Goodwin House will discuss what lessons have been learned over the past five months, and what types of changes are expected in terms of staffing, safety guidelines, funding, physical layouts and more.
Documentary Discussion: Amish: A Secret Life
Friday, July 31, 1-2 p.m.
If you’ve found yourself falling down the rabbit hole of Netflix documentaries and too many reality television series, this discussion is for you. Screen Amish: A Secret Life, a documentary based on a family in the Amish community of Pennsylvania, in a sect that prohibits the use of technology, despite the subjects’ determination to inspire change in the community after allowing themselves to be filmed for the documentary. Write down your questions, ask for other perspectives and more in this interactive online discussion.
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