600 East Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761, United States
Upcoming Program Highlights
March Pickleball Schedule
March Music & Theatre Programs
March 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
*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 Courts Will Be Closed
S, March 28th, ALL DAY
Pickleball Clinic & Next-Level Boot Camp
with Mike Mitchell, Pickleball Ambassador
Beginner Pickleball Clinic: S, March 28th, 8:30-10:30 AM Join us at ARC to learn the fundamentals of the game at this Pickleball Clinic for beginners! Cost: $10 Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Boot Camp: S, March 28th, 11 AM - 1 PM Pickleball Bootcamp consists of two hours filled with strategy, tips and drills to help improve your game. You will be taught proper court positioning and movement, the dink game, the 3rd shot, and many other skills and strategies. You will also practice volleys. Cost: $20. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
March Writing Programs
March Music & Theatre Programs
March Pickleball Schedule
Writers at ARC w/ Torri Thompson:
T, March 3rd & 17th, 10:30 AM
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). The group could read and discuss small passages about the craft and practice of writing; they may also bring in writers from our larger community as guest speakers. Location: Conference Room
Poetry Workshop: F, March 6th & 27th, 11 AM In this workshop, participants will share their poetry with peers and receive comments, support, and encouragement for their writing process. We will be using a workshop structure that encourages play, experimentation, and makes room for people who are new to poetry as well as those who have been writing for decades! Even if you're a writer of prose, we encourage you to come and learn a different mode of expression where your language gets to stand center stage. Come warm yourself as the months get a little colder with some poetry as we join together in community with each other. Cost: $10 per session. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
March 6th - Sensory Experiences in Poems (here we will talk about using all the senses in poetry, not just sight)
March 27th - What Deserves to be in a Poem? (here we will talk about topics or ideas that can go into poems. Spoiler: it's anything!)
April 10th - Ending a Line, Ending a Poem (here we are going to talk about line breaks and ending poems)
April 24th - Surprises in Poems! (here we are going to talk about surprises in poems and what they do for the writer and reader)
Location: Conference Room
Seasoned Scribes Writing Class: TH, March 12th, 1:00 PM Seasoned Scribes is a new monthly group open to any ARC member who is interested in various aspects of writing, word creativity, and learning. The vibe is casual, but the class itself will be structured, focusing on a specific topic or two each month. Local indie author, Sue Rovens, will be leading this new program. Topics such as How to Avoid Scams, Overcoming Writers Block, First Drafts, and Creating Believable Dialogue are examples of monthly themes. There are no requirements to join, except a desire to learn, to have fun, and to expand your horizons! Cost: $10. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Location: Conference Room
March Music & Theatre Programs
March Music & Theatre Programs
March Music & Theatre Programs
Music Appreciation: M, March 9th, 11 AM
Join us for an hour of music history, games, listening, discussion, reminiscence, songwriting, active music making, and light movement to your old favorites. Julie Engelsdorfer, LPMT, MT-BC provides accessible activities that ensure a meaningful and hands-on experience.
Did you know how good participating in music activities is for brain health? When you sing and engage in rhythm-based activities you are creating neuroplasticity in the brain and helping delay cognitive decline. Build your brain, connecting with new friends in the community and have fun making music together!
March: This month we are celebrating St Patrick’s day with folklore! Celtic music is known for its unique and mystical sounds and the history, folklore and identity of the nations it represents. We will learn about and discuss Irish tales and legends of rainbows and myths they represent while incorporating Celtic music and songs about rainbows into the session.
Join us and relax to the songs like “The Water is Wide” accompanied by an ocean drum, or re-create the song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with chimes.
Registration is required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Community Room
Peaceful & Comforting Piano Music with Marsha Meiss: W, March 18th, 10 AM
Relax with graceful piano music with Marsha Meiss. Location: Auditorium
Community Players Theatre Singers: Luck of the Irish: W, March 18th, 2 PM
Join Community Player Singers for an afternoon of Irish music. 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. Registration is required. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Auditorium
The Classical Concerto with Michael Dicker
M, March 23rd, 1:00 PM
Our February talk set the stage for presentation of music by the two great powers of "Classical" music. While Joseph Haydn is best known for his symphonies, his establishing the forms of classical concerto writing provided a beginning of that form as we know it today. Haydn's influence on 18th century composers can not be overstated. This is especially true of his relationship to Wolfgang Mozart whose affection and respect for Haydn carries through his concerto composing to the end of his life. Mozart's composition of 27 concertos for the piano is only one aspect of his concerto output. He wrote concerti for almost every instrument existing in the 18th century. During our session we will explore the development and use of the "new" instruments of the time and the the evolution of the concerto at the hands of both Haydn and Mozart. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Auditorium
Special Arts Programs in March
Special Arts Programs in March
March Music & Theatre Programs
Origami Class: W, March 11th & 25th, 1 PM
Instructor: Peggy Tippett
Origami is fun and therapeutic! This month we will be making a Never Ending Card and an Easter Bunny. Both from a 6” square. Come join the fun! Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Cost: $7. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Location: Community Room
Spring Equinox & Wand Making: TH, March 12th, 10 AM
Instructor: Torri Thompson
“There are more things in Heaven and Earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” Hamlet
We celebrated the equinox last year with wand making, but this year we will use sycamore knots for wands. The knots are are pretty weird looking but so beautiful. They are gnarly and often look sort of like animals.
The vernal equinox marks spring’s arrival when the Earth is perpendicular to the sun and day and night are briefly equal. For 1000s of years humans have celebrated and expressed gratitude for the return of new life, warmth, and fresh food sources - life over death. We all return to the green world and the seclusions of winter end. Even though we now have light, warmth and food year around, still, do you ever really actually believe that the cold, dead, hard grey world outside your window will turn into spring? I can’t - it is a miracle and magic, highly improbable - but just like the rest of our planet, an amazing biology of earth, air, and water at work in mysterious ways.
Spring trees sprout green leaves. Magic wands allow to participate in a symbolic way. The wand suggests extending one’s influence towards a desired outcome, made more likely by focusing one’s personal energy towards that outcome. Physics teaches us everyday that many many things happen all around us that we, with our limited senses, are simply unaware of. Frankly, our cats and dogs know more about what is going on than we do. In this class, you will prep your own wood/wand, then leave as is or coat with oil, paint, or shellac. You can decorate as you wish with marbles, rhinestones, “crystals,” glitter glue, ribbon, tassels, whatever suits you. See DIY wands on google, but ours will be far cooler I think. Feel free to bring any of your supplies that you want to use. See you there! Cost: $20. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Location: Classroom
Rock Painting: F, March 13th, 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 bunny designs. Your painted rocks will be a fun, personalized way to incorporate art into your gardens, flowerpots and homes. Cost: $5. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Classroom
Picasso Cubism: TH, March 26th, 10 AM
Instructor: Reenie Bradley
Join us on Thursday, March 26 at 10 a.m for Celebrating Picasso with multi-medium artist, Reenie Bradley. This is a free art program where we will learn about Cubism and make fun and easy 3-dimensional Picasso-inspired masks. Bring a scissors if you can and be ready for a colorful morning! Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Classroom
Altered Book Becomes Junk Journal: F, March 27th, 9:30 AM
Instructor: Charlotte Black
This is an Ongoing Project - Cost: $5 for those who have taken before and $12 for those new to class. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Those who did not register to attend class but would like to see what is being worked on are welcome to pop in to take a peek! Location: Classroom
Salt Shaker Tassels: T, March 31st, 10 AM
Instructor: Lana Kinser
Join Lana Kinser to make your own winter salt shaker tassel decoration that can be hung on door handles and more at home! You will use ribbon and choose a spring-themed salt shaker for the top. Choose an egg or a flower. Cost: $10. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Classroom
Support Groups at ARC
Special Arts Programs in March
Wellness Programs in March
Caregiver Support: CCSI & The Alzheimer's Association - W, March 4th, 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, March 3rd, 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 March.
Men's Grief Support: W, March 25th, 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.
Life After Loss, Co-Ed Grief Support Group: March 5th & 19th, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Meets 1st and 3rd Thursdays March - June at ARC in the Conference Room
Provides a place to connect with others going through loss. Share memories, learn about the grief process, and explore new ideas to help you cope & heal.
Non-members must enter through main door. Register by calling 309-268-5930 or at carle.org/events & search for Life After Loss. Or register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Veterans Coffee Cafe: F, March 13th, 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 the speaker will be Veterans Maintenance Solutions.
Parkinson's Support Group: T, March 17th, 1 PM The Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month.
Wellness Programs in March
Special Arts Programs in March
Wellness Programs in March
Self-Care Series: Voice: T, March 10th, 10 AM - 12 PM
How to use “your voice.” Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Auditorium
Vagus Nerve Workshop: M, March 9th, 5:45 - 6:45 PM Come learn how to stimulate the vagus nerve, turning on your parasympathetic system and putting your body into rest and digest mode. This helps you to physically relax your body, reducing stress and anxiety. Health benefits include a lower heart rate and blood pressure, a boosted mood, reduced inflammation, improved digestion, and a calmer, more regulated nervous system. Come have fun, release stress, and take-home exercises that you can use on a daily basis to achieve these amazing benefits! Cost: $20. Registration required. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Stroke Awareness Education Presentation
T, March 17th, 10:30 AM
Ever wondered what to do if you are with someone and you’re concerned they may be having a stroke? You gotta BE FAST!
Learn how to BE FAST with Carle BroMenn Medical Center Stroke Program nurses, Jen Hepner-Stroke Program Coordinator, and Angie Harrison-Neuroscience Educator. They will be coming to the ARC in March to share knowledge about stroke recognition and prevention. During the program, Jen and Angie will cover how to quickly recognize stroke symptoms in individuals and how to quickly respond as time is crucial for stroke treatment. There will also be an overview of what happens in the brain when a stroke occurs and the steps you can take to decrease your own stroke risk. Lisa Smith, Care Coordinator from Carle BroMenn’s Acute Rehab Unit will also be joining to share all about the Acute Rehab Unit and the services it provides to hospitalized stroke patients in our community. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Location: Auditorium
OSF SmartMeals
M, March 23rd, 1:30 PM
Learn about the OSF SmartMeals Program and take home a meal kit after this taste- testing class takes place. These shelf-stable, healthier recipes can be a pantry staple for easy cooking. March SmartMeals menu item will be Italian White Bean Pasta Soup. Registration required. Location: Dining Room
ISU Audiology Cognitive Screenings & Educational Presentation
W, March 25th - Screenings 8-10 AM & Presentation 11 AM
Presentation led by experts from the Alzheimer’s Association, focusing on brain health, dementia awareness, and
strategies for healthy aging. Cognitive and Hearing Screenings - Conducted by trained graduate students in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from ISU. Registration required. Location: Screenings at ISU Audiology upstairs, Presentation: Auditorium
Additional Educational Presentations
Additional Educational Presentations
Additional Educational Presentations
Tool Talk with Torri: T, March 17th, 1 PM “This is definitely not a carpentry class, nor am I any kind of expert, but I can help you become more familiar and comfortable with tools used in craft and artwork, and small household tasks,” says Torri. Knowing what tool you need and how to use it makes all the difference in your ability to create what you imagine. Covered: angle measurers, speed and T squares, clamps, ratcheting screwdrivers, as well as nails, screws, anchors, and hangers (Ook, sawtooth, and strap hangers) for drywall and plaster walls. Power tools covered: impact drill (gives you lots more power) and regular drills; jigsaws, the reciprocating saw, and the oscillating multi tool (which includes sander head); brad and pin nailers; and one of the most useful tools ever invented, the Dremel. This class will provide you with a basic toolbox/bag shopping list, as well as both information and actual practice/instruction. Bring your reading glasses, your questions and ideas, tools if you have them, and something to take notes in. Registration required. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Classroom
ARC Enthusiastic Gardeners Club: Designing Pots for Pollinators: TH, March 19th, 11 AM Join Bill from AB Hatchery for a demo on designing a pot with plants good for pollinators. The pot he creates during the demo will be raffled off to one lucky attendee. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the Member Portal. Location: Auditorium
Adult Healthcare Options w/ Evergreen Senior Living
T, March 24th, 10:30 AM
Step into the world of adult healthcare options
and learn about different levels of care before
an emergency occurs. Join us as we explore
independent living, home health, assisted
living, supportive living, skilled nursing, and
hospice care - because your well-being
matters at every stage of life. Location: Auditorium
Play It Again: The Toys and Games We Remember w/ McLean County Museum of History: T, March 31st, 10 AM
Participants travel back in time as they remember (and play with) their favorite toys and games. Seniors can experience a variety of objects from the 1920s through the 1960s, including marbles, toy soldiers, kaleidoscopes, roller skates, wind-up toys, and much more. Location: Auditorium
Services for Seniors
Additional Educational Presentations
Additional Educational Presentations
Books on the Go: T, March 3rd & 17th, 10 AM
The Normal Public Library will have a variety of books to be checked out at ARC. You can also bring in book requests for their next visit. Location: Bonnie’s Cafe
Durable Power of Attorney: T, March 10th & TH, March 19th, 9 - 11 AM
Empower yourself—give a gift to your
family—define your quality of life choices in writing. You will have the opportunity to make an appointment to complete your Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare document with members of Compassion & Choices of McLean County. Determine who you want as your Advocate, and have a discussion with them if possible in advance. Registration required & closes 1 day in advance. Register at ARC, by calling 309-888-9099, or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Location: Outreach Room
Connect Transit Informational: TH, March 19th, 1 PM Learn how Connect Transit works and about the different programs and routes available as well as more about fares, who qualifies for mobility transit, and more! Registration required.
Information & Assistance Outreach: TH, March 12th & 26th, 9 - 11 AM
Stop by CCSI Senior Information Services Outreach to get help applying for local, state, and federal programs. During your one-on-one consultation, our trained SIS Specialists and SHIP Counselors can help answer your questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Property Tax Freeze, License Plate Discount applications and more. Income and asset guidelines apply, so bring proof with you. Location: Outreach Room
Hometown Senior Care Advisors: M, March 9th & 23rd, 11 AM - 12 PM for appts, 12 - 1 PM for drop-ins There are so many kinds of senior living communities, offering different care and with different pricing structures. It’s confusing! Want someone to explain the differences and make it easier to understand? Do you have questions about senior living, but don’t want to talk to a sales person? Hometown Senior Care Advisors is a FREE service for seniors looking for help to navigate their senior living and senior care. You can schedule an appointment time or come by during drop-in hours on the 2nd or 4th Monday of the month. Location: Outreach Room
ICASH Program Walk-Ins: M, March 30th, 11 AM - 2 PM Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ staff will be at the ARC Activity and Recreation Center on W, November 19, 2025 to help reunite citizens with missing money through the I-Cash program. In McLean County, an estimated 279,400 people have unclaimed cash or property held by the treasurer’s office. The value exceeds $33,350,000.00. Statewide, Frerichs secures more than $5 billion in unclaimed cash and property. Location: Bonnie’s Cafe
Tech Tutor Programs
Additional Educational Presentations
Tech Tutor Programs
Internet TV: T, March 10th, 1:00 PM
Tired of paying that high Cable TV bill? Instructor, Nancy Komlanc, 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 the same internet connection, you can still watch your favorite shows, movies, sports, local news, Netflix, Amazon Prime, & more! In this class Nancy will compare costs of local Internet Service Providers and streaming subscription services, Plus show you how to set-up an inexpensive device to a TV so you can save $$$! Registration required. Registration closes 1 day in advance of scheduled class. Cost: $30. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal.
Android Basics: T, March 17th, 1:00 PM
iPhone Basics: T, March 17th, 3:00 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. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Cost: $20. Register no later than 1 day in advance.
Android Settings: T, March 24th, 1:00 PM
iPhone Settings : T, March 24th, 3:00 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 Register no later than 1 day in advance.
Apple Watch Class: TH, March 26th, 1:00 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. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Cost: $30. Register no later than 1 day in advance.
Android Apps: T, March 31st, 1:00 PM
iPhone Apps: T, March 31st, 3:00 PM
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. Register at ARC or on the GymMaster Member Portal. Cost: $20. Register no later than 1 day in advance.
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. 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.
SHIP Q & A
Question: I have several reasons to question how well my 2026 Medicare Advantage plan will work for me.
For example, I am considering changing two of the physician specialists that I see regularly, and I am concerned that the new providers may not be in-network with my current insurance plan.
Given that the Medicare annual open enrollment period ended on December 7, do I have to wait until the next annual open enrollment in the fall of 2026 to drop or select another option?
Answer: No, you do not have to wait. For someone like you who is already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, there is another open enrollment period January 1 - March 31 in 2026. Beneficiaries can switch from one MA plan to another MA plan. They can also return to original Medicare and enroll in a Medicare Part D drug plan. They can also apply for a Supplement plan which may/may not approve their enrollment depending on each company’s criteria.
It is important to understand this second open enrollment period only applies to someone already in an MA plan. It is not an opportunity for someone to enroll in a MA plan if they are not already enrolled in one. A beneficiary also cannot switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to another Part D plan.
This second MA enrollment window was first made available in 2019, and it is not widely known or understood. Fortunately, SHIP is available to help with your particular situation. Please note the disclaimer below and the additional information regarding SHIP in the adjacent column.
Disclaimer: The questions and answers in this article are intended to provide additional understanding on relevant Medicare topics. For additional explanations specific to your situation, please call ARC. At the Medicare prompt, request that a SHIP counselor contact you.
It is Not Past the Deadline to Drop or Switch your Medicare Advantage Plan
Medicare Advantage - Open Enrollment Period: January 1st -March 31
ARC's Sunshine Program
About ARC's Sunshine Program
- Provide friendly check-ins via phone or in person
- Connect you to resources to help prevent loneliness and build social connection
- Service provided to those 60+
- ARC membership not required
Can we help you or a loved one stay connected for whole-health wellness?
Contact Sunshine Coordinator Barb Dallinger at 309-888-9099, ext. 4 or by email at bdallinger@normaltownship.org to learn more or get involved
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"Love the ARC" Online Auction
Normal Township's "Love the ARC" online auction fundraiser will run February 14th through 28th! Funds raised through this special event will support ARC building maintenance needs and provide operational support for the center. Check out the link now to see items that will be up for bid, and be sure to check back often between the 14th and 28th as new items will be added throughout the auction!