Special Events

Balance and Stabilization (ONLINE)

Thursday, February 25, 2021 | 11:45-12:45pm

This class utilizes a unique blend of the world’s best exercise methods to give you long-lasting joint health, unparalleled strength, greater ranges of motion and injury prevention. Your workouts should inspire your potential and fuel your passions. Join Alex Waltrip, fitness coordinator for this very beneficial class. Appropriate for all fitness levels. 

For Center members: $30/month for standard members; Free for Prime/Charter Members). Registration is required for all.

YOU WILL RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK ONCE YOU REGISTER BELOW.

Members only.

Location: Online

NIA - Moving to Heal (ONLINE)

Thursday, February 25, 2021 | 12:00-1:00pm

Nia is a holistic fitness practice that combines dance, martial arts & healing arts (mindfulness). It is based on the intelligent design of the body. Each workout brings mindfulness to your dance movement experience that will leave you feeling energized, mentally clear and emotionally balanced. It is non-impact, done barefoot and is adaptable to individual needs and abilities.

Nia Moving to Heal is a modified Nia experience, designed for anybody seeking a gentler movement practice to complement and facilitate healing of body, mind, emotions, and spirit. This class will help you feel better move by move, breath by breath. Each class has a focus & intention to assist you in “Dancing Through Life”.

For over 35 years Nia has been helping people use movement to feel better. Your body is designed to move! No matter what your physical circumstances, you can use movement as medicine.

Join Sheila Queen, NIA Blue Belt and Moving to Heal Instructor.

ONCE YOU REGISTER BELOW (IN ADVANCE), YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL RECEIPT WITH INFORMATION ON HOW TO OBTAIN THE ZOOM LINK.

Members only.

Location: Online

International Folk Dance

Thursday, February 25, 2021 | 2:30-3:30pm

WILL NOT MEET DECEMBER 3.

Come and learn an International Folk Dance or two!  You’re invited to learn and dance along to a few easy to learn folk dances. This is a great class for beginners! Dance along or just watch and listen to the music.  We’ll have dances from countries such as Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria and others.  For instructions on how to join in the class with ZOOM, email Bill Shaw at wjshawiii@gmail.com  Free and open to the community.

Open to all.

Location: Online

How Can C'ville Meet Its Climate Goals? (ONLINE)

Thursday, February 25, 2021 | 3:00-4:00pm

The City of Charlottesville set a leadership target of a 45% reduction in community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. But how can we meet this ambitious climate target and other goals? The Community Climate Collaborative (C3) was founded in 2017 to bring communities together to lead on climate by working with residents, businesses, and local governments to develop climate action plans and policies to accelerate action. Teri Kent, Director of Programs and Communications for C3, will share how they envision reaching these goals and provide local examples of success. This is first of a three-part series which will be held on the 4th Thursday of each month from Feb-April. Everyone welcome.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89217729113

Meeting ID: 892 1772 9113

About the presenter:

Teri is passionate about creating a better world through community involvement. She started the first green business challenge in Central Virginia, the Charlottesville Area Better Business Challenge, which to date has helped over 200 businesses increase their efficiency and sustainability measures. Teri also worked as Communications Manager at the Rivanna Water and Sewer & Solid Waste Authority before joining C3 in September 2017. Her love of the rocky Mountains where she grew up has expanded to a love of the Blue Ridge. In her free time, she loves listening to music with her two boys and hiking in Nature.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Intermediate Line Dance (ONLINE)

Thursday, February 25, 2021 | 6:15-8:15pm

Open to all.

Location: Online

Stabilize Yoga (Fridays)

Friday, February 26, 2021 | 9:45-10:45am

In this class we use gentle pilates-based movements and some yoga stretching to ignite the deeper postural muscles of the core and girdle stabilizers; release and stretch major muscle groups; create potential for increase confidence, strength and resillience in body-mind. Join instructor Christine Bostic who has over 14 years of teaching experience.  For Center Members.

ONCE YOU REGISTER BELOW, YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL RECEIPT WITH THE ZOOM LINK AND PASSWORD.

Members only.

Location: Online

Friday Fitness with Alex (ONLINE)

Friday, February 26, 2021 | 11:00-12:00pm

FRIDAYS, 11:00 AM  

This class will be a hybrid of Senior Fitness and Balance and Stabilization. Join Alex for a combination of both aerobic strength training and exercises that are designed to develop better balance. Free for Center members

ONCE YOU REGISTER BELOW, YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL RECEIPT WITH THE ZOOM LINK.

Members only.

Location: Online

Senior Council (ONLINE)

Monday, March 1, 2021 | 1:00-2:00pm

Senior Council is comprised of program leaders and is a liaison group between members, staff, and the Board of Directors. The president of the Council sits on the Board. The mission of the Council is to communicate the policies, plans and decisions of the Board of Directors to the membership; to inform the membership about activities and events of all groups/programs at The Center; and to act as an advisory council to The Center staff and Board of Directors on membership, programming, and other issues. The Council meets on the first Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m. All Center members are welcome to attend.

The Council meeting is currently being held ONLINE. Email Carolyn Merrick for the Zoom link. 

Members only.

Location: Online

Beginning Line Dance (Online)

Tuesday, March 2, 2021 | 1:00-2:30pm

Every Tuesday and Friday!  

WILL MEET VIA ZOOM on TUESDAYS. 

WILL MEET ON-SITE at THE CENTER ON FRIDAYS! No need to sign up if you plan to attend on-site.

If you've never line danced before or have done a little here and there, this class is for you! Clear a space in your home and join in the fun! For instructions on how to join in via ZOOM, email program leader, Celia Pfautz at least one hour prior to the start of class. 

Members only.

Location: Online

English Country Dance - Beginners

Wednesday, March 3, 2021 | 10:00-11:00am

Join us! We dance, we sing, we laugh and we have FUN!  Center member and dance Instructor, Marcia will introduce you to the joys of dancing to beautiful Jane Austen era music.  From the graceful, elegant Upon A Summer's Day to frivolous Gathering Peascods, join in English Country Dancing from the comforts of your home. You may come to simply share a social activity of watching others dance and visit with participants between dances. Free and open to the community.  

Click here to register for the online class.

Open to all.

Location: Online

What IS White Privilege? (ONLINE)

Wednesday, March 3, 2021 | 5:30-6:30pm

What is White Privilege and Why should we care?  How does White Privilege play out in our lives and in our communities?

You are invited to a Zoom meeting. 
 

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsduCspj4qGtT04OQ-oEcfQ2oL94_xNnZs

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Susan Bro is the mother of Heather Heyer who was killed on August 12, 2017 in Charlottesville.  Susan works as an advocate for anti-racism through the Heather Heyer Foundation, Heyer Voices, and on-going hate crime legislation work.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Unacceptable: Privilege, Deceit & the Making of the College Admissions Scandal

Thursday, March 4, 2021 | 3:00-4:30pm

UNACCEPTABLE is the definitive story of the college admissions scandal that shocked the nation and shattered myths about meritocracy. Join the authors Melissa Korn and Jennifer Levitz, Wall Street Journal reporters who broke major developments in the story that exposed Rick Singer's operation which helped children nationwide secures spots at the schools of their dreams - for some, by any means necessary.They will share the history of this now famous operation, tracing the rise and ruin of the largest scam of its kind ever prosecuted by the Department of Justice. There will also be ample time for Q&A. Presented in partnership with VA Festival of the Book and WriterHouse. Register in advance, below:

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqc--vpz8uHtFlBNAaw2i7KpR__zbBgT6k 

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Melissa Korn is a reporter for The Wall Street Journal in New York covering higher education. Previously, she wrote for Dow Jones Newswire. She is a graduate of Cornell University and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Jennifer Levitz is a national reporter for The Wall Street Journal in Boston covering general news, economics, and politics. Previously, she wrote for the Providence Journal. She is a two-time Pulitzer finalist. She graduated from Loyola University of Maryland.

"Unacceptable" is available from these vendors. 

Talking Points from UNACCEPTABLE

The book paints a riveting portrait of Rick Singer and the history of his operation.

• A deep dive into his personality  and character traits that made him able to pull off such a brazen scheme for so long.
• How he was able to exploit loopholes in admissions systems, most famously, utilizing the back and side doors of college admissions with sizable donations and fraudulent athlete flags.
• The stranger than fiction strategies for cheating on standardized tests--the professional test takers who doctored results and manipulated allowances for special needs students.
• The evolution of college admissions into blood sport, which fed on the deep desires of already privileged families to achieve the ultimate status symbol: acceptance at the “right” school.
• The idea that there are secrets to know and ways to win, which helped fuel a burgeoning industry around college counseling.

Korn and Levitz had unparalleled access to the families involved.

• Exclusive insights into parents that provide well-rounded assessments of their motivations and Singer’s operations.
• So far, the only interview with one of the children involved. For Matteo Sloane this interview seemed like something of a watershed moment of asserting his independence. He gives his side of the story, and sends a message to parents everywhere. 
• Behind-the-scenes details of the investigation and legal battle that spanned the country, from California to New York to Boston. 
• Riveting accounts of the high-profile arrests and courtroom dramas.

Numbers worth noting:

• Rick Singer was paid up to $75,000 for his testing scheme and between $100,000 and $6.5 million for his illicit athletics admissions service, with the majority paying between $250,000 and $400,000 per student.
• Between 2011 and 2018 parents paid some $25 million to Singer’s charity Key Worldwide Foundation to bribe coaches and a college administrator to designate the children of wealthy clients as recruited athletes.
• Test-taking whiz Mark Riddell earned more than $200,000 cheating on college entrance exams more than 25 times in Canada, Texas and California as well as other places over the course of the cheating scheme.
• Forget real estate porn, the court proceedings provided tons of bank account porn. One mother who was charged and pleaded guilty, heiress to the Hot Pockets fortune, received $100k monthly in a trust fund.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Pathways to Flourishing Health Series (ONLINE ONLY)

Friday, March 5, 2021 | 1:00-2:00pm

Join Dr. John Schorling, MD for this timely and important presentation. Dr.Schorling is a Professor of Medicine, and Director of the Mindfulness Center and the Physician Wellness Program at the University of Virginia. His clinical interests include general internal medicine, fostering healthy lifestyle behaviors, and physician health issues. He has practiced and taught mindfulness-based stress reduction to medical professionals and others for almost 20 years.  

If joining by Zoom, click here a few minutes before the program starts:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89510235564

If joining by telephone, dial
        +1 301 715 8592 

Meeting ID: 895 1023 5564
        

Open to all.

Location: Online

Meditation on the Inner Light (ONLINE)

Tuesday, March 9, 2021 | 2:00-3:00pm

Held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83919817100

Meeting ID: 839 1981 7100

Experience refreshing moments of calm, balance, and peace any time you want through meditation. As you relax, feel your stress melt away. Discover how meditation can improve your physical, mental, and emotional health.

Benefits of Meditation for the Body

By alleviating stress, meditation can improve your physical health. One of the physical benefits includes reducing the risk of stress-related illnesses.  Medical researchers and doctors have reported the effects that stress has on the body. A number of illnesses are the result of stress. For this reason, medical practitioners recommend meditation to their patients to reduce stress levels. This includes meditating to decrease your heart rate and blood pressure. They recommend meditation to enhance the body’s immune response. Hospitals and medical clinics even offer classes in meditation to patients.

Benefits of Meditation for the Mind

Meditation produces a deep state of relaxation and a calm mind, providing mental benefits.  Studies have shown the positive effects meditation has on the brain and on improving memory. It also enhances concentration, attention, and focus. Meditation can improve concentration, whether one needs to concentrate for sports, education, work, or hobbies. When focused, we can increase our effectiveness and productivity. Sports figures and champion athletes have reported that meditation helps them to improve their focus to prepare for competing in their sport at the highest level.

Benefits of Meditation for the Emotions

Your emotional wellness, too, can be enhanced through meditation, resulting in inner tranquility and joy. Through meditation, you can reduce anxiety and depression that are caused by feelings of hopelessness and disappointments in life. When these are the result of emotions, such as feeling isolated or lonely, or a sense of sadness from dealing with life’s losses, meditation can supplement the support received from professionals.

When you meditate, you tap in to a place of happiness and peace. This increases a sense of positivity.  You realize that, beyond your daily problems that cause emotional pain, there is a pool of joy within that you can access and feel more joyous.  Meditation helps you to recharge, refresh, and rejuvenate.  When you feel happier, you are calmer and more balanced. This creates a ripple effect that will radiate to others.

Gerry Gorman, recently retired engineer, engineering manager, and business development executive has been a student and practitioner of meditation for over 40 years. He describes a very practical form of meditation and explores how a meditation practice can help each of us develop a healthier perspective to fully appreciate life. He and his wife, Penny, have been married for 38 years and have two grown sons. 

free

Open to all.

Location: Online

The Origins of Racial Categories (ONLINE)

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 | 5:30-6:30pm

Race is a biological fiction, but a social fact. The notion of biological "race" is a relatively recent historical development that emerged in the supposed era of Enlightenment which coincided with the transatlantic slave trade. Though often considered to be immutable, racial categories are socially constructed and shift over time. The perception of "race" is not an innocent abstraction since the categories function somewhat like tickets which permit or inhibit access to political and material resources and confer social status. Finally, racial categories are defined and enforced, sometimes violently, by powerful institutions. 

Register in advance here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwrdeqoqzsqHtPFZbqsQMeLOpsqRDVpGUfu

Jalane Schmidt is an associate professor in the University of Virginia’s Department of Religious Studies, teaching courses that consider the effects of colonization and the slave trade upon religious practice in the Americas. An organizer with the Charlottesville chapter of Black Lives Matter, Dr. Schmidt has appeared in numerous national and international news outlets, and frequently speaks to audiences about whiteness, white supremacy, policing, and affordable housing.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Walking the Camino Santiago with Linda Scandore Part 2 (ONLINE)

Thursday, March 11, 2021 | 3:00-4:30pm

Each year, hundreds of thousands of people walk the Camino Santiago pilgrim routes that stretch across Europe. Linda will share with us her epic journey walking the most traditional Camino Francés route from St. Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago. Come walk the path with Linda Scandore as she recounts the history of the “Way of St. James” along with stories that capture the kindness of the Spanish people and fellow pilgrims. Thinking of doing a part of the walk yourself? Linda will tell you how to plan and execute your trip. Stepping beyond conventional travel are Linda’s passions – visit her blog for information on more exciting destinations. You can also view Linda's other travel presentations (Camino Santiago Part 1 and 88 Temples of Shikoku, Japan) on our Youtube website.

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwpfu-sqT0sE9Ed9Y5Qp2BWEI4CJc-81qHh 

Open to all.

Location: Online

Virtual Watercolor with Jane Skafte (ONLINE)

Friday, March 12, 2021 | 11:00-12:30pm

Fridays, March 12-April 2 (4 weeks), 11:00 am-12:30 pm

Even if you are proficient in watercolor, portraits can be a challenge. In this class, you will work from photographs and will understand skin tone, shading, and how subtle differences can show expression in the face. Learn basics of proportion and exercises for the various features-- eyes, nose, mouth, hair-- which will make the translation to watercolor easier. Open to all. Prime members – free; Standard members and guests -$45.

Closer to the class, Jane will email you with the Zoom link.

Supply list:

• Watercolor paper 140lb, size 12″ x 16″ or similar
• Pencil
• Painting palette for watercolor paints 
• Water container
• Paper towels or a rag
• Brushes: there is a pretty good synthetic set at Michael’s, Artist loft set: 
• Wash brush (1")
• Flat brushes (sizes 10, 6)
• Round brushes (sizes 10, 3, 5, 1)
• Filbert brushes (sizes 6, 4, 1)
• Winsor & Newton® Cotman® Watercolors Sketchers' Pocket Box  OR: if you have paint already or want to add to your supply: (The individual colors are suggested, don’t worry if you have another brand that calls the color by another name. You need the primary colors in both warm and cool (e.g. warm blue is purplish and cool blue is greenish)
• Two reds:  for example, Alizarin Crimson and permanent red or Cadmium red
• Two blues: for example, Cobalt Blue or Ultramarine and Cerulean blue 
• One or two greens: for example, Hookers green or sap green
• Two yellows: for example, Lemon yellow and Gamboge
• Nice colors to have (can be added later): Raw sienna, burnt umber, ivory black, paynes gray, quinacridone rose
• Nice to have: watercolor pencils

Open to all.

Location: Online

Card Making with Sherry Sinard (ONSITE)

Monday, March 15, 2021 | 1:30-3:30pm

Veteran card maker and Center member Sherry Sinard teaches you how to make 3 unique easel cards, 2 vertical (pictured above) and 1 horizontal. You can add embellishments to create your stand alone masterpiece. Prime Members: free, Standard Members and Guests: $15.00 Materials fee: $10.00 per person for all participants, payable to instructor at time of class. 

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Caring for Your Cardiovascular Health (ONLINE)

Monday, March 15, 2021 | 2:00-3:00pm

Cardiovascular disease refers to medical conditions that affect the blood vessels and heart. In adults over the age of 60, at least 70% have cardiovascular disease, most of which are preventable. Jonathan Pan, internal medicine resident at the University of Virginia (UVA) Health System, will help you understand the basics of cardiovascular disease and learn how to improve your cardiovascular health. Jonathan is a UVA Medical School graduate and a Center volunteer; next year he will begin his training in Cardiology at UVA.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88080818773

Meeting ID: 880 8081 8773

Open to all.

Location: Online

Beginner Acrylic Pour Class March 16 (ON SITE)

Tuesday, March 16, 2021 | 9:00-12:00pm

Acrylic Paint Pouring is a fun and exciting way to set your creativity free and play with color. Fluid acrylic paints in your choice of colors are layered and poured onto a canvas surface, and the rest is up to your imagination! Join artist Jan Settle to learn the basic techniques of acrylic pouring – no experience required. No two paintings are ever the same; you will take home two finished paintings after they have dried.

Prime Members free; Standard Members and Guests $25. Materials $15 per person, payable to instructor at time of class.

About the Artist

Jan Settle received her BFA degree from Virginia Commonwealth Universty and worked in the field of Interior Design for many years. She paints with acrylics, watercolor, and pastels, and her new passion is Acrylic Paint Pouring. Jan is a member of the Blue Ridge Art League of Culpeper, the Mid-Atlantic Pastel Society (MAPS), and the Firnew Farm Artists Circle of Madison. Her work can be seen in local galleries and in many of the exhibits held by MAPS. You can follow Jan on Facebook at CastleRock Designs and Workshops.

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Square Dancing Lessons - (ON SITE)

Wednesday, March 17, 2021 | 2:00-3:00pm

Jim Hassmer, a member of The Virginia Reelers Square Dance Club will guide participants in learning the 71 basic movements of 8-person square dancing. All levels are welcome! Terrific fun as well as good for your brain, body, and social life. Free and open to the community.

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable (ONLINE)

Wednesday, March 17, 2021 | 5:30-7:00pm

Building bridges with people across differences and divides, working to get to know someone in a real and meaningful way, taking social risks, holding yourself and others accountable, and growing requires willing engagement in feeling uncomfortable. This presentation will help you recognize your discomfort and identify ways to work through it. We will specifically talk about the discomfort of white fragility and how to handle it.

Register in advance here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwpde2sqzwsG9TCN1omdD44GALdAa-4_rX3

Kaki Dimock was born in Charlottesville and raised in North Garden. She is the Director of Human Services at the City of Charlottesville, working with people experiencing homelessness, incarceration, poverty, and substance abuse. An extroverted introvert with a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University, Kaki believes we are always better together.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Original Strength

Friday, March 19, 2021 | 11:30-12:30pm

THIS CLASS WILL NOT MEET UNTIL THE CENTER RE-OPENS.

From the design of your original blueprint, you were meant to move with grace, fluidity, strength and power. This class helps you regain original movements that you developed early in life. Learn to breathe properly, gain head and neck strength, increase your mobility and more!  Join Beth Valorz, personal trainer and certified original strength practitioner. For Center members.

 YOU WILL RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK and PASSWORD WHEN YOU REGISTER BELOW!

Members only.

Location: Online

Keeping Aging Feet Healthy and Active - Dr. Heather Snyder (ONLINE)

Monday, March 22, 2021 | 2:00-3:00pm

According to the US National Center for Health Statistics, impairment of the lower extremities is a leading cause of activity limitation in older people. Mobility is a vital ingredient of the independence that is cherished by our aging population. Podiatrist Dr. Heather Snyder, DPM, FABPM, will provide helpful tips to minimize, or even prevent, a variety of foot ailments that could lead to knee, hip, and lower back pain – all of which can undermine mobility.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81739953292

Meeting ID: 817 3995 3292

About the Presenter: 

Heather Snyder is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and has been practicing in Charlottesville since 1999. She was the recipient of the Majorie C. Sitkoff Memorial Award for the female student with the highest scholastic average and epitomizing the highest ideals of today's professional women. A Fellow of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, Dr. Snyder's areas of clinical interest include dance medicine and women's foot health. She and her husband, Dr. Bryan Snyder, own the private practice Albemarle Family Foot and Ankle. Dr Snyder is a Visiting Staff at Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital and Medical Director for the Charlottesville Ballet.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Controlled Acrylic Pour March 23 (ON SITE)

Tuesday, March 23, 2021 | 9:00-10:00am

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Do You Have Black Friends or do You just Know Black People? (ONLINE)

Wednesday, March 24, 2021 | 5:30-7:00pm

Your efforts to build an inclusive community are dependent on your desire and ability to develop meaningful relationships. Allison Linney has spent more than 30 years learning how to explore privilege and bias and then transform that insight into a foundation for strong friendships that can endure difficult moments, bring us joy, and support lasting change.

Register in advance here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtcempqT4rGNTjJPlWEkj2-QcMN0X_g1kL

Allison Linney is the President and Founder of Allison Partners, an organizational development consulting firm serving corporate, non-profit, and public sector clients in Virginia and around the world. As a coach, trainer, facilitator, and consultant, Allison’s clients benefit from her thoughtful candor and broad experience in areas including effective communication, management and supervision, balance, and team development. Allison received her BA and MBA from the University of Virginia and has been supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accountability work since she first came to Charlottesville in 1991.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Taking Climate Action Personally: Tips for Saving Money and the Climate at Home (ONLINE)

Thursday, March 25, 2021 | 3:00-4:00pm

If you are like most people, you care about the environment.  But what can you personally do about it? The issue can seem intangible, insurmountable, and immeasurable. Community Climate Collaborative (C3) is here to make it personal. In this talk we’ll share steps that you can take to reduce waste, save money, increase your health, and help our community reach its emissions reductions targets starting in your own backyard. Free and open to all.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88917739810

Meeting ID: 889 1773 9810

Open to all.

Location: Online

Getting Your Final Affairs in Order - March 31 (ON SITE)

Wednesday, March 31, 2021 | 10:00-11:30am

We prepare extensively for weddings, moving, and other life occurrences. But when it comes to planning for our inevitable deaths, do we have our affairs in order? Dr. Richard Gallagher has created a comprehensive program that enables the successful facilitation of your estate. Learn what essential documents you will need and how to organize them all into one place. This process can save time, money, and reduce the grief associated with death. You will receive a binder with documents and information needed to begin this process. Dr. Gallagher has settled four estates, and has 23 years’ experience teaching law, personal finance and organization, and has served as the Chairman of the Business Department at two Universities. Participants must register by Thursday, January 14th. Class materials fee: $10.00 for all, paid at registration.

Richard Gallagher is a retiree interested in helping others help themselves and their families with this presentation. He has offered this presentation several times with great success. Dr. Gallagher, a resident of Ruckersville for the last 24 years, is married with four grandchildren. 

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Building Opportunity (ONLINE)

Thursday, April 1, 2021 | 3:00-4:00pm

Building Goodness Foundation (BGF) is the central axis of transformative cultural exchanges, long-lasting partnerships and the incredible sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. For over twenty years, BGF has helped design, build and renovate schools, clinics, women’s health centers, community spaces and thousands of homes in central Virginia and internationally. Join us to learn about our work, including our projects with the Mattaponi and Upper Mattaponi Native American tribes in King William County, Virginia. We will discuss the rich heritage of these “people of the river” - an integral part of Virginian history and identity - and how BGF is making an impact in their community. Come build goodness with us! Free and open to all.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81431509847

Meeting ID: 814 3150 9847

Speaker bio:

Anne Lassere is the Director of Community Engagement at Building Goodness Foundation. Local to Charlottesville, Virginia, she is also a carpenter and a licensed general contractor with a specialty in home renovations. She is experienced in alternative building materials such as cob, adobe and straw bale. A former French translator, she enjoys traveling. When not at work, she is cooking, writing or mountain biking.

Open to all.

Location: Online

The Torlonia Marbles Uncovered with Olga (ONLINE)

Friday, April 2, 2021 | 3:00-4:30pm

The Torlonia family were astute merchants, investors and bankers who obtained princely titles and an astounding collection of ancient Greek-Roman classical art. This is the largest and most important private collection of antique statues in the world, and has always been either hidden from the public or open to just the family's chosen guests. Ninety-two of its 620 priceless sculptures are now displayed in Rome's Capitoline Museum. Olga Cuckovic, licensed Tour Guide of Rome and the Vatican City, saw the exhibition before it closed due to covid-19, and will tell us the remarkable story of the Torlonia marbles, sharing her photos and extensive knowledge of art history.

Olga has worked for one of the best US tour operators for luxury travel, Tauck, as coordinator and a guide for some of their chains of groups that come to Rome. She’s also specialised in private tours for families and individual custom-made itineraries. She started working as a guide at the age of 18 in her hometown of Dubrovnik. A lover of art, she obtained her Master’s degree in Arts Management at the American University of Rome last year, and is currently working on obtaining her TEFL certificate (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). 

You may wish to visit her site www.olgarome.com or find her on Instagram at @olgaromeofficial 

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkceypqD8rHNyU-waox-e3RiO1Jud-98Ca

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Getting Your Final Affairs in Order - April 5th (ON SITE)

Monday, April 5, 2021 | 10:00-11:30am

We prepare extensively for weddings, moving, and other life occurrences. But when it comes to planning for our inevitable deaths, do we have our affairs in order? Dr. Richard Gallagher has created a comprehensive program that enables the successful facilitation of your estate. Learn what essential documents you will need and how to organize them all into one place. This process can save time, money, and reduce the grief associated with death. You will receive a binder with documents and information needed to begin this process. Dr. Gallagher has settled four estates, and has 23 years’ experience teaching law, personal finance and organization, and has served as the Chairman of the Business Department at two Universities. Participants must register by Thursday, January 14th. Class materials fee: $10.00 for all, paid at registration.

Richard Gallagher is a retiree interested in helping others help themselves and their families with this presentation. He has offered this presentation several times with great success. Dr. Gallagher, a resident of Ruckersville for the last 24 years, is married with four grandchildren. 

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Try It Out Tuesday

Tuesday, April 6, 2021 | 10:00-11:00am

Have you recently joined The Center at Belvedere? Are you considering joining, but would like to learn more? Join us for a new and prospective member orientation. Enjoy samples from our Greenberry’s Coffee Co., attend a brief presentation about The Center, and tour our beautiful new facility. Space is limited; RSVP to Judy Gardner via email. Try It Out Tuesday is generously sponsored by The Colonnades, an independent living community and retirement home.

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Current Events Talk (ON SITE)

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 | 10:00-11:00am

2^nd and 4^th Wednesdays, 10:00-11:00 am - ON-SITE at The Center

Welcome to the program! Meetings are designed to encourage an enjoyable discussion about important issues. The discussion leader will keep the conversation balanced, making sure that all who wish to speak have the opportunity. We are committed to sponsoring friendly and civil discussions. We want to respectful of all opinions, different points of view.  

CURRENT EVENTS IS CURRENTLY NOT MEETING. STAY TUNED....

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Speaker Series Wrap-Up - Where Do We Go From Here? (ONLINE)

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 | 5:30-7:30pm

You are invited to join us for this final session, to discuss the presentations.  After a brief introduction by Bob Garrity, Mediator and Restorative Practices Consultant, participants will adjourn to moderated breakout rooms to discuss the following:  1) Reaction to the information presented.  2) Recommended action steps for The Center to take to best address diversity, equity and inclusion. 3) Recommended action steps for the greater community to take to best address diversity, equity and inclusion.   The entire group will then reconvene to present their ideas.

Register in advance here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0ucuiurzspH9NgVfIF97-QH2GPH7Xec_Rj

Since 1989, Bob Garrity and has provided services and training in communication, planning, problem-solving, restorative practices, diversity and cultural competence, and conflict resolution for businesses, government, schools, universities, and other organizations.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Hugh Carr's River View Farm - Restoration and Preservation (ONLINE)

Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 3:00-4:30pm

The land that is now known as the Ivy Creek Natural Area was previously known as River View Farm. River View Farm is a rare surviving example of the Union Ridge/Hydraulic Mills community of African American farmers, pastors, craftspeople, and businessmen that flourished in the region beginning in the final quarter of the nineteenth century. Recently River View Farm has been named to the National Register of Historic Places. Join Ivy Creek Foundation's Executive Director Sue Erhardt as she shares the story of Hugh Carr who purchased 125 acres of land, becoming one of the largest African American landowners in Albemarle County at that time. 

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86591418645

Meeting ID: 865 9141 8645

About the Presenter:

Sue Erhardt has more than 20 years of senior leadership experience working in the conservation, nature, and place based education movement. Over her career, she has been able to grow programs, expand staff, and develop organizational infrastructure in a sustainable fashion. She has worked for urban forestry organizations in Detroit and Washington DC, and most recently for an agriculture nonprofit based in Augusta and Highland Counties, in Virginia. Her programs included a Food and Farm Fellowship program, as well as designing and implementing a Farm to Hospital project which has become a resource for the community by providing educational programming and vegetables for a Food Farmacy program. Ms. Erhardt holds a Masters degree in Environmental Studies. She is a Certified Arborist and Certified Interpreter Guide. Her efforts have been recognized by prominent groups with several notable awards, such as the National Park Service Centennial Award and Outstanding Educator Award from the Arbor Day Foundation. Sue began working for the Ivy Creek Foundation in December 2019. Working for the Ivy Creek Foundation combines her passion for history and the national world with her experience running non-profit organizations.

Open to all.

Location: Online

Felt a Mini Teddy Bear (ON SITE)

Friday, April 9, 2021 | 1:00-4:00pm

You’ll have fun creating a teddy bear in this needle felting class. Fiber artist Donna Markey has studied and played with fiber for years. She loves teaching and sharing this creative art form with people of all ages, and to see the joy in peoples’ faces as they create their own masterpieces. No experience necessary. Prime Members: free, Standard Members and Guests: $20.00 Materials fee: $6.00 per person for all participants, payable to instructor at time of class. 

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Shredding Truck

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 10:00-1:00pm

No need to sign up, just show up with your paper to be shredded.  For safety and to keep the line moving, please stay in your car and a volunteer will collect your bag(s) of paper.  The shredding truck is a state-of-the-art, high speed shredding truck from 1st Choice Shredding, an NAID (National Association for Information Destruction) certified company. All shredded paper is recycled.  The event is open to the community.  The cost is $5 for up to 5 grocery bags.  Additional bags are $2 per bag.

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Riding Climate Solutions: How Improving Local Transit can Help us Reach our Climate Goals (ONLINE)

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 3:00-4:00pm

With transportation emissions accounting for the largest share of Virginia’s greenhouse gas emissions and communities setting aggressive targets for reductions, transportation solutions are critical. While increasing electric vehicle adoption is an important solution, they are not currently accessible to all residents. Join Community Climate Collaborative Executive Director Susan Kruse to learn how improving local transit systems and doubling ridership can help Charlottesville and Albemarle County reach its climate goals and improve access to services. Free and open to all.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83829445661

Meeting ID: 838 2944 5661

Open to all.

Location: The Center

Capturing Landscape and Wildlife Photographs with an Aesthetic Difference (ONLINE)

Wednesday, June 16, 2021 | 10:00-12:00pm

Six Wednesdays from  June 16-July 21 

This six-week online photography class will help you learn and apply aesthetic decisions during the process of shooting photographs. These decisions will help you achieve more dramatic, dynamic and interesting photographs. Technical decisions, such as proper exposure, sharp focus and white balance, are important and are the areas of concentration for most photography instruction. This class, however, will concentrate on artistic qualities and principles that can make the difference between just technically good photographs versus visually strong and interesting images that attract the viewer. These qualities include such important principles as composition, quality of light, format, angle of view, tonality, contrast, use of color versus black and white, and timing. Lecture time during the class will focus on these aesthetics with images of the instructor and those from your weekly shooting assignments that will be presented and discussed by the full class (Participation limited to 12-15 persons). 

Join Ben and other photography enthusiasts to learn the differences between technical and aesthetic photography decisions, to recognize the opportunities to apply artistic principles to your photographs and to capture images that reflect the important decisions you make during the process of shooting and processing your images.

About The Instructor:

Ben Greenberg is a lifelong resident of Virginia. He has photographed scenic vistas in Virginia, the mid-Atlantic area and many locations in the United States for more than fifty years, the last forty-five as a professional photographer. His carefully crafted images have won local and national awards and competitions. Ben's photographs have been exhibited in numerous individual and group shows, featured in diverse publications and purchased by thousands of Virginians.

Ben's first photography book, Natural Virginia, celebrates the natural beauty of Virginia with 122 panoramic landscape photographs from throughout the state. Natural Virginia highlights dedicated state organizations committed to preserving Virginia's fragile environment for future generations. It is dedicated to all who take pleasure in these scenic locations. A veteran photography teacher and lecturer for camera clubs, OLLI, the Charlottesville Photography Initiative,and other organizations, Ben has two websites showcasing his landscape and wildlife images www.bengreenberg.com and his book www.naturalvirginiabook.com.

Open to all.

Location: Online