ARC will be closed on Monday, October 13th for Indigenous Peoples' Day
600 East Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761, United States
Upcoming Program Highlights
September Pickleball Schedule
September Pickleball Schedule
September Pickleball Schedule
M | 7 AM - 11 AM, 4 - 7 PM
T (Beg.) | 7 AM - 9 AM
T (Exp.) | 2 - 7 PM
W (Exp.) | 7 AM - 12 PM, 4 - 7 PM
W (Beg.) | 12 PM - 4 PM
TH | 7 AM - 9 AM, 1 – 7 PM
F | 8 AM - 1 PM S | 8 AM - 1 PM
Pickleball Courts Will Be Closed
F, September 26th, ALL DAY
S, September 27th, ALL DAY
*During the above times listed as Beginner times, south court will be reserved for beginners and those serving as their mentors. North court open to all*
Click Here to Learn More About Pickleball Rules
Scramble at the ARC: S, September 27th, 8:30 AM—12:30 PM Join us for friendly, fun, competition, round robin format. No partner needed as you will get to partner with diferent people throughout! Prizes awarded to top four individuals. Ready, set, go! Cost to participate: $20. Spectators are welcome. This program is open to non-ARC members who are 55 or older as well. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal
September Technology Programs
September Pickleball Schedule
September Pickleball Schedule
Android Basics FREE Class: Coming in October
iPhone Basics Free Class: Coming in October
Join us to learn how to: organize your "Home Screen", increase your font size, set-up "Speed Dialing," or “Favorites”, send a text message and add a photo, and more! With step-by-step handouts and instructions, you’ll make your phone adjustments and get plenty of hands-on practice! Registration required. Register no later than 1 day in advance at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
September Tech Talk: T, September 2nd, 11 AM Traveling today can be a great experience, but it can also be an anxiety-inducing one. There are a few smart travel devices which can help minimize the anxiety and even add comfort to your travels.
· Portable Chargers
· Travel Adapter
· E-Reader
· Noise Canceling Earbuds or Headphones
· Item Trackers (i.e., luggage location tags)
We’ll also discuss password software options.
Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Apple Watch Class: W, September 3rd, 1 PM
Join Nancy, The Tech Tutor, as she guides you through the features of your Apple Watch. She’ll share important tips so you can maximize the features with your Apple Watch. We’ll delve into its styling features to enhance user-friendliness, how to use it as a communication device, and most importantly for monitoring your health, personal safety, and exercise activities! Cost: $30. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Android Apps: W, September 10th, 1 PM
iPhone Apps: W, September 10th, 3PM
If you have questions about downloading and installing a "safe" App on your Smartphone, this class is for you! We'll go over step-by-step handouts and instructions on how to install & uninstall an App, how to use QR codes, plus Nancy will share with you some Apps to help make your life easier, safer, and fun! Registration required. Cost: $20. Register no later than 1 day in advance.
Photo Editing with Ray Silva: T, September 16th, 10 AM Come and learn more about photo editing with Ray using your own digital cameras. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): ChatGPT & How to Use It: TH, September 18th, 10 AM
Chat GPT is the most popular free and simple AI platform to use. We will explore how to work with it and its pros and cons. Tablets suggested but not required. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Music Programs in September
September Pickleball Schedule
Special Arts Programs in September
Music Therapy: M, September 8th, 11:00 AM
The goals of this new, monthly program are to increase social engagement and modulate mood through music activities that involve active music making, receptive music listening and silly songwriting. Members from each trivia team will volunteer to complete a short music-making challenge to ear their team additional points. You will have opportunities to play unique and high quality musical instruments in ways that are accessible for your skill level, while learning about different styles of music, music history and experience. All instruments and materials provided. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
September Theme: One-Hit Wonders - Explore the world of one-hit wonders from the 60s, 70s & 80s
Sample Questions: “What 1970 hit is known for the lyric ‘I’m too sexy for my shirt?” “Which band had a major hit with ‘Come on Eileen’ in 1982?”
Songwriting Challenge: Julie will help participants engage in a brief fill-in-the-blank songwriting challenge to create their own one-hit wonder.
Outdoor Concert with Sweetwater:
F, September 19th, 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Join us as we celebrate National Senior Center Month & the 2025 Build the ARC annual fundraising campaign for the ARC Living Memorial Fund with a bit of fun at our outdoor concert featuring Sweetwater on September 19th from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Enjoy music, food from Tony’s Tacos food truck, and the opportunity to purchase tickets for the Build the ARC Raffle. Prizes up for grabs include a wine gift backpack donated by Synergy HomeCare, a $100 Rob Dob’s gift card donated by The Loft Rehabilitation & Nursing, a $25 Casey’s General Store gift card donated by Sugar Creek Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, and a SmartWatch 2 donated by a generous ARC member.
1 ticket - $5, 5 tickets - $10, Armlength - $20. Raffle will close on Tuesday, September 30th. Winners will then be drawn and notified.
Reservations preferred, walk-ins welcome | Register at ARC, on the Member Portal or by calling 309-888-9099.
Peaceful & Comforting Piano music with Marsha Meiss: TH, September 25th, 10 AM
Relax with graceful piano music with Marsha Meiss in the Auditorium.
The Russians Have Arrived with Michael Dicker: M, September 29th, 1 PM
Inspired by Mussorgsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, and "The Five", Pytor Tchaikovsky created music for everyone in every genre! In today's session we explore more of Tchaikovsky's music: Concerto, Symphonic Poem, Opera, Chamber music. We will focus on some of his most important compositions and will consider why these pieces are still so frequently performed today. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Special Arts Programs in September
Special Arts Programs in September
Special Arts Programs in September
Origami Class: W, September 10th & 24th, 1 PM Instructor: Peggy Tippett
It's fun, it's therapeutic, it's magical! Origami is a great hobby. It's low cost and anyone can learn. Transform a flat piece of paper into an action figure or a 3-D object. In this class we will be making a 3x3x2 inch gift box with a lid and a gift inside. All materials supplied. Success or money back guarantee. Give it a try! Join Peggy to make your own origami pieces for the cost of $7. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Junk Journals: F, September 12th & 26th, 9:30 AM—12 PM Instructor: Charlotte Black
Continue work on your altered book/junk journal from books found at the thrift store. This will be an ongoing project in which the next couple of classes will consist of covering the spine and covers, filling the pockets with paper stuff, decorating the pages, etc. Cost for those on step 3 of their junk journal creation journey, is $5. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Fused Glass Class: Cactus: F, September 19th OR S, September 20th, 9 OR 11 AM
Instructor: Connie Dearborn
Each participant will make a cactus in a terra cotta pot. Cost: $35. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Make a Comic: M, September 22nd, 9 AM - 12 PM Instructor: Mike VanCalbergh
Come celebrate National Comic Book Day (which is September 25th) with a comic book making event! We are going to learn how to make a simple comic book using some paper, writing instruments, and a little bit of imagination. This class will encourage playing with the comics format and encourage members to create stories personal to them. There is no artistic experience needed! Come enjoy a creative process that you can take away to create unique objects for your friends, family, or yourself. Mike looks forward to creating some memorable panels with you. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Support Groups at ARC
Special Arts Programs in September
Wellness Programs in September
Caregiver Support: CCSI & The Alzheimer's Association - W, September 3rd, 2 -3 PM Are you a current or past family caregiver? Are you feeling stressed, tired, alone, overwhelmed, and/or burnt out? Caregiver support group meetings may be able to help! Caregiver support groups offer not only peer support, but resources in our communities, referrals to additional support, possible funding opportunities, and problem solving. If you feel you need a listening ear to validate what you’re going through as a caregiver, this support group may be for you! Caregiving is not easy and we’re here to help!
Caregiver Support: Sugar Creek Alzheimer's Special Care Center: T, September 2nd, 9:30 AM Sugar Creek in Normal, IL offers a free support group for caregivers that assist in the care of Alzheimer's & Dementia individuals on the first Tuesday of every month at 9:30 AM at the ARC in Normal. Talking points covered include conflict/resolution, self-care for the caregiver, recreation activities, the different stages of disease.
Grief Support Groups Led by Kevin Copeland, LCSW, Carle Hospice Bereavement Coordinator. These programs will meet in person at ARC for the month of September.
Men's Grief Support: W, September 10th & 24th, 12 - 1:30 PM Open to members/non-members of ARC, men who are grieving the death of a spouse or other significant person/other.
Veterans Coffee Cafe: F, September 12th, 9 AM
Veteran Coffee Cafes with Traditions Health help to identify the veterans among us and support them through sharing stories or just letting them know that their service is important still today. They are not forgotten. This month will focus on discussion & sharing of experiences.
Parkinson's Support Group: T, September 16th, 1 PM The Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month.
Wellness Programs in September
Special Arts Programs in September
Wellness Programs in September
ISU Student Nurses/BP Checks: M, September 15th, 11 AM - 1 PM
W, September 3rd & 17th, 11 AM - 1 PM
F, September 5th, 10 AM - 12 PM
BP Checks offered on the Monday and Wednesday dates. BP checks and other services offered on the Friday date.
CCSI Informational: F, September 26th, 10 AM As we age, we may face more concerns, including – finances, scams, healthcare coverage, food security, housing, caregiving, social isolation, transportation, and health (physical and cognitive). CCSI Case Coordination is the Central Point of Entry and Senior Information Services provider for McLean, DeWitt, Livingston, and Shelby Counties in Illinois. Our SIS Specialists are also Senior Health Insurance Program Counselors, providing outreaches throughout each county where adults over the age of 60 and under age 60 with disabilities can come for help with concerns. Do you ever wonder HOW we can help? Attend this informational overview of CCSI services to find out how CCSI can serve you! CCSI programs are funded through IDOA, ECIAAA, the Older American’s Act, and CCSI Case Coordination, LLC. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Self-Care Series: Communication (Fresh Content): M, September 15th, 10 AM—12 PM
Communication is a form of expression. Once a word is said, it can’t be erased. Words have power. Come learn how it uniquely relates in this self-care series—a series for all people and levels of communication. Bring a pen and a drink.
Session 1: 10 AM – 10:45 AM (snack/lunch)
Session 2: 11:15 AM – 12 PM
Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
ISU Audiology Presentation: F, September 19th, 9 & 11 AM: Illinois State University’s Speech and Hearing Clinic is proud to host a FREE Hearing Health Event on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC), located at 600 E. Willow St. in Normal.
This informative and interactive event is for individuals experiencing hearing difficulties, such as trouble understanding speech in noisy environments, frequent requests for repetition, listening fatigue or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Whether you currently use hearing aids or are just beginning to notice changes in your hearing, this event is for you.
Two identical sessions will be offered for your convenience:
First Session: 9 a.m. | Second Session: 11 a.m.
What to Expect
-Discover the latest breakthroughs in hearing
technology and care.
-Experience live demonstrations of cutting-edge
hearing devices.
-Connect one-on-one with licensed audiologists
who are ready to answer your questions.
Admission is free, but reservations are encouraged.
For more details or to reserve your spot, visit:
https://audiology-health.com/illinois-state-university-eckelmann-arc-event-september-2025/
Mental Health Series: TH, September 25th, 10:30 AM Bruce Boeck is a Licensed Counselor with over 40 years of experience with every kind of population. The topic for September is “how therapy works.” Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Special Events
Unique Educational Programs in September
Unique Educational Programs in September
Senior Care Network Community Health Fair: F, September 26th, 11 AM - 1 PM
Get ready for a day of community health services, engagement, learning and fun! Sam’s Club is providing a FREE market, while supplies last. There will also be a food truck with foods to purchase and pet adoptions will be outdoors in the Green Space. This program is open to the public!
Sudoku Contest: T, September 9th, 10 AM
ARC will host a Sudoku contest on International Sudoku Day! Join in on the fun for a chance to show off your puzzle-solving skills and challenge your brain as you work to complete your 3-star Sudoku puzzle. Prizes will be awarded. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Unique Educational Programs in September
Unique Educational Programs in September
Unique Educational Programs in September
Day of the Dead Informational w/ Torri Thompson: W, September 24th, 10 AM
Historically, All Saints Day became All Hallows Eve, which is now Halloween, a holiday designed to scare people; to reinforce death as a terror to be avoided; to see the afterlife as a source of fear (ghosts, zombies, etc.). Lately people have even inaccurately added evil, satanic qualities to the holiday. However, you may have seen signs everywhere (grinning, brightly decorated skulls) of the Hispanic holiday, Los Dias de los Muertos, (The Day of the Dead): Nov. 1 for children (Angelitos), Nov. 2 for adults, when the veil between this world and the afterlife is thinnest. This allows those loved and lost to death to come home for one day, a cause for celebration, not fear. Great preparations are made to welcome them: ofrendas, special baking and food, papal picado, calaveras de azucar (sugar skulls). The local cemetery is cleaned and decorated followed by a fiesta that night.
The dead, in the Hispanic tradition, are in a parallel world, doing things pretty much as they did when alive, but they miss home and the living, just as we miss them. So, why not celebrate with those whose party it actually is? Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Every Book Has a Home: The Books to Benefit Story of Re-Homing: T, September 30th, 10 AM
Join the "Vintage Lady" from the local non-profit Books to Benefit to hear intriguing stories about the special finds that have been uncovered among their donations and about where those books are now. Where oh where have all those books gone? In the past nine years, Books to Benefit has sent special books to over 200 destinations nationwide. Every book has value to someone, but finding that someone can be challenging. Books to Benefit has "saved" books in national museums; public, presidential, and university libraries; historical societies; and schools and churches, among other places. Here is a chance to listen to stories, too, about ephemera that shows up in books, from playbills to photos, and even WWII Nazi papers. Learn about what might be lurking among your own books that is unusual or rare and gain some insight into what to do with those books. Presenter: Dr. Mary R. Ryder, Distinguished Professor Emerita of English, South Dakota State University. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Exercise Program Highlights
Unique Educational Programs in September
Exercise Program Highlights
R&B Line Dance: M, September 8th, 15th, 22nd, 5:50 PM & S, September 13th, 10 AM
Instructor: Lorraine
Get ready to grove and move to the smooth sounds of R & B. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this fun class will have you stepping in sync to your favorite hits. Your instructor will guide you through easy-to-follow routines that combine classic line dance steps with soulful R & B vibes. Perfect for anyone looking to learn new moves, meet great people and stay active. Cost: $6.00 /class. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Dancing for Dogs with Nancy Nork
S, September 27th, 10 AM: Circuit-style workouts are one of the most effective, time efficient ways to improve your health. Time flies in this class consisting of motivating music, a full body warm-up, low- impact cardiovascular and strength stations (stations will change every class to keep the body guessing), an elongating stretch, and a final calming meditation. Donation to Ruby’s Rescue. Cash or check donation will be collected day of class. Registration is not required. Just come on in to join the fun for a good cause!
Drumming with Nancy Nork: S, September 6th, 10 AM The Act of Drumming has been found to be effective for balancing out the right and left-brain hemispheres. Using drum sticks and stability ball, we’ll have a BALL pounding out and creating our own moving musical masterpiece. This beat will energize your body, mind, and spirit. Cost: $7.00. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Gentle Yoga (M1), W,10 - 11 AM
Instructor: Michelle Mollet
Michelle begins all classes with a tapping for energy sequence, followed by balance work and stretching exercises. She works on core strength, hand and arm stretching and strength, and leg/hip opening. Classes may change a bit once Michelle gets to know her groups. Please dress comfortably for ease of movement. Bring a mat (limited available), a water bottle, and a blanket if you think you’ll need one for savasana. Please refrain from wearing perfumes or other strong scents due to instructor allergies. The cost to attend this class in September is $40 for 4 classes. Gentle Yoga will start on Wednesday, September 3rd. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Chair Yoga (M2), W, 11:30 - 12:30 AM
Instructor: Michelle Mollet
Michelle begins all classes with a tapping for energy sequence, followed by balance work and stretching exercises. She works on core strength, hand and arm stretching and strength, and leg/hip opening. Classes may change a bit once Michelle gets to know her groups. Please dress comfortably for ease of movement. Bring a mat (limited available), a water bottle, and a blanket if you think you’ll need one for savasana. Chair provided for chair yoga, but feel free to bring previously mentioned items. Please refrain from wearing perfumes or other strong scents due to instructor allergies. The cost to attend this class in September is $40 for 4 classes. Chair Yoga will start on Wednesday, September 3rd. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Travel With ARC & Collette Vacations
Southern Charm Feat. Charleston, Savannah & Jekyll Island
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
Southern Charm Feat. Charleston, Savannah & Jekyll Island
February 23 — March 01, 2026 • 7 Days • 9 Meals
Highlights: Historic Charleston, Choice on Tour: Walking Tour or Fort Sumter Cruise in Charleston, Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, Savannah, Choice on Tour: Savannah Trolley Tour or Haunted Savannah Walking Tour, St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island
Click HERE to learn more.
British Landscapes feat. England, Scotland & Wales
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
Southern Charm Feat. Charleston, Savannah & Jekyll Island
May 12 — May 26, 2026 • 10 Days • 12 Meals
Highlights: Edinburgh Castle, York, Chester, Conwy Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford, Choice on Tour: Ashmolean Museum or Oxford Walking Tour, London
An adventure fit for a Shakespearean tale takes you from verdant hillsides to bustling British cities rich with culture. Explore The Athens of the North during your stay in Edinburgh. Train from Edinburgh to York. Enjoy medieval York and its historic Minster. See the Conwy Castle in Wales. Walk in the footsteps of the Bard, visiting the childhood home of William Shakespeare. Personalize your tour with a choice of included excursions in Oxford. See the quintessential sights of London with a local guide. Sleepy villages, grassy slopes, mountainside lakes, and cities built upon layers of history – these are the landscapes of Britain.
Click HERE to learn more.
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
June 5 — June 13, 2026 • 9 Days • 12 Meals
Highlights: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado National Monument, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO), Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Click HERE to learn more.
Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
The Colorado Rockies feat. National Parks & Historic Trains
Sept 09 — Sept 18, 2026 • 10 Days • 13 Meals
Highlights: Bern, Alphorn Maker, Yodeling Demonstration, Fondue Lunch, Lucerne, Austrian Alps, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Mirabell Gardens, Bavaria, Linderhof Palace, Tyrolean Folklore Show
Click HERE to learn more.
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
November 8 — December 6, 2026 • 9 Days • 19 Meals
Highlights: Christmas Markets, 6-Night Danube River Cruise, Vienna, Würzburg, Rothenburg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Wachau Valley, Glühwein Party
Click HERE to learn more.
Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Services at ARC
What is SHIP?
SHIP counselors are trained, certified, and experienced in offering one-on-one information for all aspects of Medicare, health insurance and drug plans. A program of ARC, SHIP provides assistance, explanations, and plan comparisons. There is never a cost, sales, or any insurance affiliations. SHIP is especially helpful for those new to Medicare who are trying to navigate the system and meet deadlines or to anyone wanting to lower current costs and understand options. Help is available by individual appointment at various times each month. Call ARC at 309-888-9099, and a counselor will return your call to set an appointment. Walk-in hours are available on the 2nd Thursday and 4th Monday of each month ONLY. Walk-ins start at 1 PM with no appointment needed and operate on a first come, first served basis. Help is available by individual appointment various times each month as well. Call ARC at 309-888-9099 and press 3 to leave a message for the SHIP team. A counselor will return your call to set an appointment. SHIP is a program of the Illinois Department on Aging. There are no walk-in hours during open enrollment.
Click HERE to visit the official Medicare site.
Click HERE to learn more about SHIP & the Illinois Department on Aging.
Open Enrollment Coming Soon! ARC SHIP counselors will again be offering in person consultations during Open Enrollment, helping clients chose the best Part D (drug) and Medicare Advantage plans for 2026. Specifics regarding the dates, times and scheduling processes will be published in the October ARC newsletter. Stay tuned!
3 Tips to Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud and Scams
1. If you get a call, text or email asking for your Medicare Number, don't respond. Don't give your Medicare card or Medicare Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.
2. Check your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or claims statements carefully. If you see a charge for a service you didn't get or a product you didn't order, it may be fraud. If you suspect fraud, report it at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
3. Guard your Medicare card like it's a credit card.