Welcome to our first snowstorm of the year! Unfortunately, by the time you read this column in the newspaper, most of the pretty white stuff will have been washed away by buckets of rain and warmer weather. Sorry.

It’s time to think about 1040s, W-2s, 1099s. and time to gather your tax information for 2023. Midcoast Ca$h will be holding 2 days for free tax preparation, Saturday, March 2, and Tuesday, April 2, at the Boothbay Town Office, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for those of you having annual earnings below $64,000. Sign up is a must for an appointment. If interested, we will help you with the sign-up process at The Community Center beginning Jan. 16. Alternatively, as of Jan. 15, you can make your own appointment by calling 207-295-6340 or 207-751-3756; email midcoastcash@uwmcm.org or visit the following website: www.eznetscheduler.com/calendar/midcoastmaineCASH.

Jean Larkin has asked me to tell you that she will begin a new writing class this month for all of you aspiring folks who would like to learn to write better – a story (fact or fiction), a memoir, or anything that suits you, even if it’s just directions to get someplace. These writings are for personal use unless you feel an urge to publish. The only skill needed is a desire.

We are the recipients of lots of Depends Night Defense underwear for men – sizes S-M and P-M. The package says 26-34 in. waist. If you need any, please come to The Community Center. We have also received many packages of Hygienic full-body washcloths. Each package has 8 medium weight washcloths, size 8” square. No water necessary.

Finally, we have just received a couple of flyers from Catholic Charities, which provides outreach to seniors in Lincoln County, to provide support, phone calls, or a visit. They are seeking people to make a difference, volunteering your time to reach out to an isolated senior. If you would like to make a difference, please call 207-837-8810. 

Schedule for Jan. 15 – Jan. 20

Monday, Jan. 15: We will be closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day   

Tuesday, Jan. 16: Mah Jongg 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; QiGong 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 17: Love to Dance 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Cribbage 12:30-2 p.m.  

Thursday, Jan. 18:  Mexican Train Dominoes 10 a.m.-noon; Cribbage 10 a.m.-noon  

Friday, Jan. 19: Scrabble Noon-2 p.m.; Rummikub Noon-2 p.m. 

Saturday, Jan. 20: Finding Your Family 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 

Puzzles, coffee, tea, goodies, and good camaraderie are always available all week long. Please save us from eating too many goodies ourselves by coming in and sharing our snacks. And we always welcome new faces and fresh ideas! Welcome to 2024!