600 East Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761, United States
Upcoming Program Highlights
August Pickleball Schedule
Financial Education Presentations
August Pickleball Schedule
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
S, August 2nd, 12 –1 PM
S, August 9th, 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
2025 Beat the Heat Pickleball Fundraiser: S, August 9th, 8:30 AM—1:00 PM (8:30—10:30: Experienced, 11 AM—1 PM—Beginners)
Join us for our Beat the Heat 2025 Pickleball Fundraiser in support of the ARC Living Memorial Fund Fitness Programming Upgrades and Updates initiative.
Prizes will be awarded and all participants will received a goody bag!
7 Brothers Fish food truck will be parked at ARC for the duration of the event with meals to purchase at an additional cost.
Event will be organized as round-robin, social, fun play. Cost: $15/person. Register in-person at ARC by Friday, August 8th. Be sure to register in the correct skill-level time slot.
We thank Event Sponsor Ann Bliss of Team Bliss at Coldwell Banker for her support of this event!
August Technology Programs
Financial Education Presentations
August Pickleball Schedule
Android Basics: W, August 6th, 1 PM
iPhone Basics: W, August 6th, 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.
Android Settings: W, August 13th, 1 PM
iPhone Settings: W, August 13th, 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. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Cost: $20
Internet TV: W, August 20th, 1 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.
Do I Really Need a New Computer? Linux Mint OS: W, August 27th, 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 , 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.
Financial Education Presentations
Financial Education Presentations
Financial Education Presentations
Webinar: Inflation– How it Affects a Fixed-Income Budget w/ U of I Extension: T, August 12th, 2 PM
Have you gone to the grocery store recently and noticed that an item that you regularly purchase is more expensive than normal? According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, inflation happens when the price of goods and services increase over time. In this session, we will take a deeper dive into what inflation is and how it affects our buying power, how we can adjust our budget with increasing prices, and provide resources to better understand the effects of inflation in your everyday lives! No registration required.
Financial Markets Discussion: W, August 13th, 10 AM An open discussion regarding current events including challenges, risks, and the impact of the current financial climate on your investment decisions. Members of Renaissance Wealth Management BN, LLC will be on hand to address your concerns and answer your questions. The team will discuss current events and how they may affect portfolio management decisions. Bring your questions and enjoy a robust discussion! Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099 or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Special Arts Programs in August
Special Arts Programs in August
Financial Education Presentations
Junk Journals: F, August 1st & 15th, 10 AM
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 two of their junk journal creation journey, is $5. For those interested in starting the first step of your junk journal, please bring cash or check with you to class. Charlotte will get you started on step one. Cost: $12. Cost includes a book, small, vintage ink pad, 4 pieces of decorative paper for covers, and fabric to cover binding for step one. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Rock Painting: F, August 8th, 10 AM
Instructor: Lana Kinser
Join local rock painting artist Lana Kinser to paint a few rocks, learning from her a variety of painting techniques and taking inspiration from provided back to school and harvest designs. 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.
Watercolor Landscape Basics: T, August 19th, 9 AM OR 1 PM
Instructor: Carol Boerckel
Watercolor basics, great for beginners. All supplies provided. Or bring your own if you have a favorite. Cost: $15 per class. Please contact Carol with any questions:
309-230-8743. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Fused Glass Class: Mosaic Cross: F, August 22nd OR S, August 23rd, 9 OR 11 AM
Instructor: Connie Dearborn
Using various glass tiles, participants will create a mosaic for a wooden cross on a stand. It is 6" tall and 4" wide. Cost: $35. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Fall Wreath Class: F, August 29th, 10 AM
Instructor: Sherry Phillips
Wreath rings, ribbons and pipe cleaners needed to make a wreath will be provided with instruction and scissors to cut ribbons. The class typically takes 60-90 minutes to complete. All materials and tools will be provided, and no experience is needed. Your instructor recommends not wearing a sweater to this class! Cost: $30. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Support Groups at ARC
Special Arts Programs in August
Wellness Programs in August
Caregiver Support: CCSI & The Alzheimer's Association - W, August 6th, 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, August 5th, 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 August.
Men's Grief Support: W, 13th & 27th, 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, August 8th, 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, August 19th , 1 PM The Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month.
Wellness Programs in August
Special Arts Programs in August
Wellness Programs in August
Self-Care Series: Change: The Benefit of Choice: T, August 5th, 10 AM—12 PM
How is your Current Reality?
Do you prefer to remain the same or flip the switch and change? Discover how “CHANGE … The Benefit of CHOICE “ relates to Self-Care - Your Mental Health. Self -Care is not Selfish or Limited. This Inspirational session is intended for all levels of people in every environment and any profession. Choice, Chance, Change. This New Segment is held in two (2) sessions with a break between. You must attend Session 1 in order to attend Session 2 (to apply details from Session 1, same day.) Bring a water and a pen. Sign Up at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099 or on the GymMaster Member Portal beginning July 23rd. You will be glad you made that CHOICE!
Navigating Senior Homecare: A Guide for Veterans: TH, August 14th, 10 AM
This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the steps veterans must take to qualify for senior home care services. It outlines eligibility requirements, including military service criteria, income and asset limits, and medical needs assessments. The presentation also covers available VA programs such as Aid and Attendance, Homemaker and Home Health Aide Services, and steps to apply through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Designed for veterans, caregivers, and family members, this guide aims to simplify the process and connect eligible veterans with the care and support they deserve. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Heartsaver CPR/AED: T, August 19th, 9 AM
This course trains participants to provide CPR and use an automated external defbrillator (AED) in a safe, timely, and efective manner. Refects science and education from the American Heart Association Guidelines Update for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC). It is designed for anyone with little or no medical training who needs a course completion card or anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency in any setting. The course cost to members is $50, which includes a workbook, training supplies, and a 2-year certifcation. Instructor: Jill Howell—MSN RN and ISU Instructional Assistant Professor Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Healthy Cooking 101 w/ Evergreen Senior Living: T, August 26th, 10:30 AM
Get ready to sizzle and stir your way to wholesome deliciousness! Join us as we uncover the secrets of healthy cooking basics, from fresh ingredients to flavor-packed recipes. Let's embark on a culinary journey that nourishes both body and soul. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Mental Health Series: TH, August 28th, 10:30 AM Bruce Boeck is a Licensed Counselor with over 40 years of experience with every kind of population. The topic for August is “how to diagnose mental illnesses.” Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Summer Fun Programs
Exercise Program Highlights
Music Programs in August
Clowning Around: TH, August 7th, 11:00 AM
Join ARC’s Ron Bordewick for an informational about clowning, fun, laughs, smiles, and what it is to be Normal. Come help celebrate International Clown Week with " The NORMAL One,” a local meet-and-greet clown on Thursday, August 7th at 11 AM in the Classroom. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Summer Nights Dance: F, August 8th, 6 - 8 PMARC invites you to join us for a Summer Nights Dance with music by DJ Brad Olson. Meal option available (first-come, first-served) for $5 - sandwich with chips, cookie and water. Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome. Cost: $5/person; members may bring one non-member guest. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
“Shake It Up” in Support of Alzheimer’s Association: M, August 18th, 12 PM
Join ARC and Caiti Redmond from Traditions Health for a lemon shakeup and friendship bracelet fundraiser in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Shakeups for $3, bracelets for $5. All proceeds will benefit the Normal Township ARC walk team.
Music Programs in August
Exercise Program Highlights
Music Programs in August
Music Therapy: M, August 11th, 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.
August Theme: Classical Music
Focus on iconic classical pieces from several eras and composers.
Sample Questions: “What era is Beethoven from? - Baroque, Classical, Romantic?” “Which composer wrote “La Boheme—Puccini, Vivaldi, Monteverdi?”
Rhythm Stick Challenge: All participants will be able to participate in this challenge! Julie will lead the group in “drumming” their rhythm sticks in a routine to a part of a well-known classical song, such as the William Tell Overture. This is an Orff-inspired Music Therapy Rhythm Game that is suitable for all ages.
Peaceful & Comforting Piano music with Marsha Meiss: M, August 18th, 10 AM
Relax with graceful piano music with Marsha Meiss in the Auditorium.
Music Enrichment with Rita Meland: T, August 26th, 2 PM
1955: Rock(ing) Around the Clock! Bill Haley and the Comets struck gold and the heart of teenagers everywhere with the first rock ‘n’ roll recording to hit the top of the Billboard Charts. Haley’s recording rose to anthem status after it was included in the 1955 film “Blackboard Jungle.” This did not happen overnight; the stage had been set in the decade following World War II. Join our Music Enrichment Series with Rita Meland as we take an exciting look at mid-century America: the songs, the hit performers, aspects of popular culture, political and social dynamics. 70 years ago: Those Were the Days!! Everyone welcome! Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Exercise Program Highlights
Exercise Program Highlights
Exercise Program Highlights
R&B Line Dance: M, August 4th - 25th, 5:50 PM, S, August 2nd & 30th, 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.
Dog Days of Summer with Nancy Nork
S, August 9th, 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 Wishbone Canine 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, August 23rd, 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.
New & Popular Line Dances One-Day Class
S, August 16th, 10 AM - 11 AM
Instructor: Miriam Donovan
Plus an oldie but goodie to warm up. Learn a variety of dance to do in a group or solo. All genres. Do you love slow songs but do not have anyone to dance with? No problem. You will learn a line dance for those slow songs too. Come and enjoy an hour of fun, exercise and air conditioning! This is a one-day class. Minimum participation of 10 required. Register to attend. If minimums are met ahead of time, walk-ins are welcome. Cost: $6. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
New & Popular Line Dances (D1), W, 5:30-6:30 PM
Instructor: Miriam Donovan
Plus an oldie but goodie to warm up. Learn a variety of dance to do in a group or solo. All genres. Do you love slow songs but do not have anyone to dance with? No problem. You will learn a line dance for those slow songs too. Come and enjoy an hour of fun, exercise and air conditioning! The cost to attend this class in August is $24 for 4 classes. New & Popular Line Dance will start on Wednesday, August 6th. 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.
New to Medicare: TH, August 28th, 4:30 PM
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 offer a “New to Medicare” session held in a small group setting. This presentation is scheduled on Thursday, August 28th at 4:30 PM in the Auditorium on the first floor at ARC. 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. This is the final introductory Medicare session for 2025; however, presentations specific to Part D (drug plans) and Medicare advantage will be offered later this fall. ARC membership is not required. Registration is encouraged by calling ARC or using the GymMaster Portal; however, walk-ins will also be welcome.
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.