600 East Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761, United States
Upcoming Program Highlights
April Pickleball Schedule
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
April Pickleball Schedule
M | 7 AM - 11 AM, 4 - 7 PM
T (Beg.) | 7 AM - 9 AM
T (Exp.) | 3:30 - 7 PM
W (Exp.) | 7 AM - 12 PM, 4 - 7 PM
W (Beg.) | 12 PM - 4 PM
TH | 7 AM - 9 AM, 3 - 7 PM
F | 8 AM - 1 PM
S | 8 AM - 1 PM
Pickleball Courts Will Be Closed
S, April 19th, ALL DAY
W, April 23rd, 7 AM - 1 PM
*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
Pickleball Chalk Talk: S, April 19th, 8:30 AM
Strategy, Rules & Skills Discussion with Michelle Chow (PPR Certified Coach):
Have burning questions about pickleball? Want expert advice to take your game to the next level? Join our interactive Q&A-style Pickleball Clinic, where YOU guide the discussion! Whether you are looking for strategic insights, technical improvements, rule clarifications, or solutions to tricky game situations, this session is designed to address what matters most to you. This open-format clinic allows players to ask questions and receive expert guidance on all aspects of the game strategy, shot selection, positioning, rules, and more. Perfect for players eager to refine their skills and increase their Pickleball IQ in a fun, engaging environment. Bring your questions and get ready for an insightful pickleball learning experience!
Registration required. Cost: $20. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
March Technology Programs
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
April Pickleball Schedule
Internet TV: TH, April 3rd, 1 - 3 PM
Tired of paying that high Cable TV bill? The Tech Tutor, will show you step by-step how many of us are saving $50 - $100/month by gradually moving from watching Cable TV channels to Internet Streaming TV channels. Using your same internet connection, you can still watch your favorite shows, movies, sports, local news, Netflix, & more! Nancy will compare costs of local Internet Service Providers and streaming subscription services; plus she’ll show you how to set-up an inexpensive device to a TV so you can save $$$! Registration required. Cost: $30. Register no later than 1 day in advance. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Apple Watch Class: T, April 8th, 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! Registration required. Cost: $30. Register no later than 1 day in advance. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Android Basics: TH, April 17th, 1 PM
iPhone Basics: TH, April 17th, 3 PM
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. Cost: $20. Register no later than 1 day in advance. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Do I Really have to buy a New Computer?
Class on Linux Mint Operating System:
W, April 16th, 10 AM
Research shows that most people only use their computers for the simple things in the age of technology. They shop, read, create and print email, check news, the weather, research how-to subjects, find recipes, listen to music, play internet games, create and print documents, sign up for ARC activities via the ARC portal. In reality, very basic activities on the internet. Microsoft has announced that on October 14, 2025, it will drop its free support of its Windows 10 product lines. Those computers still using Windows 10 will no longer receive FREE software updates (Windows Update), Technical assistance or Security fixes from Microsoft. There are 400 million computers in the world that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. That’s close to 64% of all personal computers, worldwide, not just the United States. We invite members to a discussion led by our tech expert George Wilson on how that may affect you and your Windows 10 computer. Consumers will be very limited in their options, but there is one free option. George will explain the options as listed below, but will concentrate on the free option, Linux Mint. Registration is required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Android Settings: T, April 22nd, 1 PM
iPhone Settings: T, April 22nd, 3 PM
Learn to unlock the secrets to your Smartphone with Nancy Komlanc, The Tech Tutor, making your phone easy and
fun to use! Customize your Home screen, Set alarms, Personalize the Ringtone for family, friends, & emergency contacts, Increase your screen light-up time, and more! With step-by-step handouts and instructions, you’ll make your phone adjustments and get plenty of hands-on practice! Registration required Cost: $20. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
Nature's Nurture: Health & Wellness Outdoors: Tuesday April 1st, 10 AM
Spending time engaged in outdoor activities can promote healthy aging. Come and learn about the ways in which spending time outdoors can positively influence health and wellness. You can also learn about local outdoor activities and places that are available within the community. Additionally, information and resources will be discussed about strategies to mitigate potential barriers to spending time outdoors. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Walking with Nature: T, April 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 1 PM Step into Spring and discover the health benefits of outdoor physical activity with this outdoor walking group. If you’re interested in exploring local outdoor walking areas in the community, having somebody to walk with, or simply looking to get extra steps in, this group is for you. This group may meet at the ARC or at a local park depending on the distance. Join us as we walk around Hidden Creek nature area, the Life Trail at Tipton Park, and other parks and nature areas within the community. There is no cost to attend, and this weekly group will start on Tuesday, April 8th. Registration required for scheduling and location purposes. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Crafting with Nature: TH, April 10th, 17th & 24th, 1:00 PM
Instructor: Quincy Boschulte
Come and engage in a variety of nature-inspired craft activities as we launch into spring. Activities will include handmade pinecone bird feeders, card making with pressed flowers, and window sill planter pot decorating and herb planting.
This group offers a more leisurely, relaxed way to discover the health benefits of nature. This group will take place in the outdoor space at the ARC, weather permitting. In the event of poor weather, activities will be moved inside. There is no cost to attend and this weekly group will start on Thursday, April 10th. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Special Arts Programs in April
Special Music Programs in April
Spend Time Engaged in Outdoor Activities
Rock Painting: F, April 11th, 10 AM
Join local rock painting artist Lana Kinser to paint a few rocks, learning from her a variety of painting techniques and taking inspiration from designs featuring flowers. Your painted rocks will be a fun, personalized way to incorporate art into your gardens, flower pots, and homes. Cost: $5; registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Writing Group with Torri Thompson: T, April 15th, 10:30 AM
Someone in the recent journaling workshop suggested the formation of a writing interest group, which I agreed to help organize. I’m not a creative writer, but I was a Renaissance Literature professor at ISU for 25 years. So, over the course of my education and then profession, I’ve done lots of reading and writing, which I still do everyday. I think we all have important things to say, even if just to ourselves, but it definitely helps to have a structure for getting started.
There are no requirements or assumptions that any of us are expert, accomplished writers. All you need is an interest in any kind of writing (journals, blogs, poetry, life writing, genealogy, newsletters, etc.). The group could provide a forum for anyone who would like to read from their own writing (asking for feedback if wished). We could read and discuss small passages about the craft and practice of writing; we might be able to bring in writers from our larger community as guest speakers. If there is sufficient interest, at the first meeting we will solidify days and times, as well as discuss how to best meet the needs and interests of potential group members. I do deeply believe that “writing is a way of knowing,” a way of slowing down, discovering, and articulating what you feel and think, but also what you think you know. I also believe that writing for oneself (and maybe others as well) is the one of the best gifts of time, energy, and attention you can give. If you have any interest or questions, please join us at the first gathering.
Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. This program is FREE!
Fused Glass Class: Hanging Hearts: F, April 18th OR S, April 19th, 9 OR 11 AM
In ARC’s next fused glass class with Connie Dearborn, make hanging hearts. They are approximately 5” across. Cost: $30. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Making Light Features for Indoor or Outdoor Use: T, April 29th, 10 AM - 12 PM
Instructor: Torri Thompson
In this workshop, you will make a light feature, for indoors or out, from supplied glass pieces (jars, thick glasses, etc). Based on the shape you choose, you will light your nished piece with either battery powered string lights or tea light candles. Using tacky glue, hot glue, and other adhesives, you will decorate your light feature with glass discs, marbles, images behind glass squares, tissue paper, glitter glue, washii tape, etc. We will have two hours to complete the project, and it should be ready for you to take home. Don’t be concerned at all if you haven’t ever done this sort of glass “paving” (I just can’t think of a better word to describe the process we will use). It is fun and easy. Registration required. Cost: $20. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Support Groups at ARC
Special Music Programs in April
Special Music Programs in April
Caregiver Support: CCSI & The Alzheimer's Association - W, April 2nd, 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, April 1st, 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 April.
Women's Grief Support: W, April 2nd, 12 PM This group is closed to new members.
For anyone enduring the grieving process who would like to attend a Co-Ed Grief Support Group:
Carle Hospital Coed - Group
2nd and 4th Monday for each month
Time: 5:00-6:30 PM
Place: Chapel at Carle BroMenn Medical Center | 1304 Franklin Ave. | Normal, IL
Men's Grief Support: W, April 9th & 23rd, 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, April 11th, 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’s speaker will be a VSO representative.
Parkinson's Support Group: T, April 15th, 1 PM The Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month.
Special Music Programs in April
Special Music Programs in April
Special Music Programs in April
Community Players Singers Concert:
T, April 1st, 1:30 PM Community Players Singers is a group of performers who have appeared in many plays at Community Players Theatre over the years. The group was founded in 2011 and has performed at retirement communities around the area, Illinois State University, and the Marine Ball. For April they will present "Is it Spring Yet?" Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Peaceful & Comforting Piano Music with Marsha Meiss: M, April 7th, 10:00 AM
Relax with graceful piano music with Marsha Meiss in the Auditorium.
Musical Schema with Jane Schurter
F, April 4th - 25th, 9:30 AM Isn’t it fascinating how music can transport you right back to a specific time and place, stirring all kinds of memories? In this 4 week class, we will learn about Musical Schema and build a Music Memory Bank, complete with written memories and a song list you can share. I can even help you build a digital playlist to share with friends and family on Apple Music or Spotify! The last session of the class will have participants voluntarily sharing a moment of their lives with the music that was instrumental to their growing years. Topics we will explore: Childhood, Heritage & Faith Traditions, Holidays, Special Occasions. Bring a journal or your laptop to take notes. Once you’ve completed Musical Memories I, watch for Musical Memories II: Beautiful, Ordinary Life Musical Schema explores the everyday music from regular days of your daily life including media: TV jingles and theme songs, or even memorable movie music, daily life with family & career, and your current musical life. Again we will build a playlist and ask for volunteers to share meaningful moments.
Week 1: Introductions & Childhood Music
Week 2: Heritage & Faith Traditions
Week 3: Holidays & Special Days
Week 4: Sharing Day
Cost: $20 for 4 sessions. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Music Therapy: M, April 14th, 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.
April Theme: Folk & Protest Songs
Explore folk music and protest anthems from artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Sample Questions—”What Bob Dylan song became an anthem for the civil rights movement?” “Which song did Joan Baez famously perform at Woodstock?” Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
Cyber and Electronic Safety: Scams/Medical ID: W, April 2nd, 1 PM
With the technology we have today, there are more opportunities than ever for scammers. However, with that same technology, we have many features with capabilities to keep us safe and prepared. This two-part presentation includes recognizing scams and using smartphones to store your medical information in the event of an emergency. The first portion of this presentation focuses on Cellular phone safety, social media safety, and email phishing scams. Attendees will learn how to protect their devices and how to avoid becoming a victim of theft, scams, blackmail, and other crimes. The second portion covers how to use the “Medical Information” or “Medical ID” features on smartphones to help first responders in the event of a medical emergency. Attendees will learn the importance of having medical information readily available on their phones, how to set it up, and how to access it. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Webinar: Declutter Your Home & Finances: T, April 8th, 2 PM
Do you feel overwhelmed trying to organize your stuff? Do you have a filing cabinet spilling over with financial paperwork? During this program we will explore reasons for clutter and how it makes you feel, understand what financial documents need to be kept while discussing options to discard sensitive documents, learn the benefits of decluttering and minimizing, and identify strategies to create a plan to clear your clutter.
Rain Barrels Informational with Ecology Action Center: TH, April 10th, 10:30 AM
Imagine all of the water that was running down your driveway or sidewalk the last time it rained being put to beneficial use in your home and garden. Come join the Ecology Action Center informational workshop to learn about the benefits of rainwater harvesting. We will review the types, installation, and maintenance of rain barrels and share steps to acquire a rain barrel for your home Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Weather Preparedness with McLean County EMS: T, April 15th, 10 AM
McLean County Health Department is offering a training on hazardous weather preparation. The training will focus on tornado preparedness, but will also touch on thunderstorms and flooding. We will discuss how best to prepare your home and car for inclement weather, as well as what materials will be useful to have before bad weather strikes. In particular, we will advise members of the public to obtain weather radios, and show how they can be programmed to our local weather warning station. Additional tools and apps for monitoring storms will be showcased. This training will also show members of the public how to access additional training, such as how to become a Storm Spotter. We encourage all members of the public who are interested in preparing for hazardous weather to attend. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Celebrate ARC's 9th Anniversary with Us!
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
The Normal Township ARC team is looking forward to celebrating ARC’s 9th anniversary with you as we offer a wide array of special programs to take part in throughout the month of April. Our official anniversary date is April 25th, and we hope you’ll join us to take part in the many ongoing and special programs we have on deck that day! All ARC members who swipe their key fobs and attend any ARC program on Thursday, April 25th will be entered in to a drawing to win a $30 ARC gift certificate!
We will also host a spirit week from April 21st—25th. Each day that you dress in theme, you can stop at the front desk to fill out a drawing slip to win a special, daily prize. Two winners will be drawn daily.
M, April 21st: Hat Day (wear your silliest or your favorite hat)
T, April 22nd: Alumni Day (show your high school or college pride)
W, April 23rd: Tourist Day (Hawaiian shirts, sunglasses, fanny packs, cameras, etc.)
TH, April 24th: Comfy Day (sweatshirts, sweatpants, slippers, pajamas, robes, etc.)
F, April 25th: ARC Gear Day (wear an ARC logo to celebrate ARC’s 9th anniversary)
Spirit Week Prizes Sponsored by Traditions Health
Each year, we officially kick off our annual fundraising campaign for the ARC Living Memorial Fund during our anniversary month. In April, members who would like to give back in honor of ARC’s 9th year are encouraged to make a donation to the ARC Living Memorial Fund in support of the aspects of ARC that mean the most to them - the green space project, fitness programming, classroom updates and upgrades or general support..
Make a gift of $81 April 1st – 30th - $9 for each year ARC has served local seniors and help us kickstart our journey to reaching our biggest goals for the future!
We hope to make progress on the expansion of the shaded area of our green space and supplement maintenance of the condition and quality of our now 9-year-old equipment and facility, while continuing to build a contingency reserve for unplanned future expenses. Gifts can be made at ARC, on ARC's website or on ARC’s Facebook page.
Mental Health Programs in April
A Few Upcoming Educational Opportunities
Mental Health Programs in April
Self-Care Series: Anxiety, Depression & Panic Attacks: F, April 25th, 10 AM
Self-Care is not just breathing, hygiene or exercising. There are many other levels of self-care. This ongoing series will cover topics on forms of stress, simple, healthy eating habits, and self-awareness in and around you. Easy, everyday methods will surprise you. “You are Worth Every Effort You Put in to You.” Discover the “Better Version of You” in a positive and productive manner. Practical steps towards the hidden treasures within you. Touching on identity fraud and security for the elder population. Some of the content may be sensitive to individuals and their personal experiences. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Mental Health Series: TH, April 24th, 10:30 AM Bruce Boeck is a Licensed Counselor with over 40 years of experience with every kind of population. The topic for April is “Friendships.” Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Travel With ARC & Collette Vacations
Southern Charm Feat. Charleston, Savannah & Jekyll Island
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
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
Christmas on the Danube feat. A Six-Night Danube River Cruise
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.
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.
Want to know more about Medicare?
Curious about Medicare? Finding Medicare insurance confusing? Turning 65 soon and overwhelmed by mail from insurance companies? SHIP can help! ARC SHIP counselors will be offering bi-monthly “New to Medicare” sessions held in a small group setting. The next is scheduled on Thursday, April 24th at 4:30 PM in the classroom on the first floor (Classroom) at ARC. Subsequent sessions will be offered in June and August with times to be announced. Counselors will cover the basics of Medicare and secondary insurance options. These presentations will be helpful for anyone with Medicare in their future (or who just wants a refresher). They are not personalized nor meant to replace in-person counseling sessions.
ARC membership is not required. Registration is encouraged by calling ARC or using the GymMaster Portal; however, walk-ins will also be welcome.
Medicare Data Breach
SHIP was informed that Medicare recently experienced a data breach of some 800,000 accounts. While a significant number, this represents a small percentage of total accounts. Anyone impacted will be automatically mailed a new card with a new Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI).
What it Means to You
· You are not impacted if your MBI was not part of the data breach
· If your MBI was in the breach, a new Medicare card was mailed to you. Please be attentive to any
mailing received from Medicare.
· If you were mailed a new MBI, your old number was deactivated, and your medical providers will
need your new number.
· Unfortunately, Medicare-related scams are all too common. If you received a new Medicare
number and are concerned if it is legitimate, SHIP can help research your situation. You may also
contact Medicare directly at (800) 633-4227.
Get Your New ARC Gear!
March 27th - April 15th using our online store with Select Screen Prints!
By request, we will have tons of fun colors available, including a variety of neon options. We will offer purple gear again this year in support of Normal Township ARC’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s team. A portion of the proceeds from all neon options will be given to the ARC Living Memorial Fund & a portion of all proceeds from purple options will be given to the Alzheimer’s Association.