Iowa City Senior Center March-April 2025 Program Guide

MARCH-APRIL 2025 PROGRAM GUIDE Your community Senior Center is here for you! Offering free and low-cost

programs, services, and facilities geared toward older adults. Based in downtown Iowa City with programs and services offered throughout Johnson County. Membership open to anyone age 50+, wherever you live, with low-income discounts available. Here to help you stay active, curious, and connected! Open 7 Days a Week: Mon-Thu, 8 am - 7 pm Fri, 8 am - 5 pm Sat, 9 am - 1 pm Sun, 12 - 5 pm New Classes & Events: Community Engagement, page 4 Lifelong Learning, page 6 Social Connections, page 9 Wellness, page 11 Services by Appointment, page 16

icgov.org/senior

ABOUT THE SENIOR CENTER

OUR MISSION To enhance quality of life by creating opportunities to support: wellness social connections community engagement lifelong learning for a diverse and growing older adult population. OUR VISION To extend social involvement and end social isolation for people age 50+. inclusion by creating a more equitable, accessible, safe, welcoming, and inclusive senior center where differences are recognized, respected, valued, and celebrated. OUR EQUITY STANDARD To purposefully embrace DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all Iowa City Senior Center sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate, please contact us in advance at srcenter@iowa-city.org or 319-356-5220.

BECOME A MEMBER OF ICSC! Membership is open to anyone age 50+ and includes access to the Senior Center fitness equipment rooms and member-reserved programming. Membership can be purchased at any time and is good for one year from the date of purchase. Annual membership fees for an individual and additional household members: Iowa City resident: $40 (+$25/additional person) Non-Iowa City resident: $75 (+$45/additional person) Membership offer for North Liberty residents: Thanks to grant funding from the City of North Liberty, NL residents age 50+ can pay the same discounted membership rate as Iowa City residents through June 30, 2025. Stop in or call 319-356-5220 to take advantage of this special discount. How to sign up or renew your membership: Go online: icgov.org/senior/registration Stop in: 7 days a week during open hours Call us: 319-356-5220 Mail a check: 28 S. Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52240 Low-income discount: We never want financial concerns to be a barrier to full participation. The Iowa City Senior Center has a low-income discount program available, which reduces the cost of membership to $10 per year or fully waives the fee if needed. To learn more, please inquire with our staff when you join or renew. Free membership with Renew Active: A program of United Healthcare Medicare plans, Renew Active covers the cost of your membership by making monthly contributions to support our Senior Center. Ask for details at the reception desk.

MARCH-APRIL 2025

INDEX OF PROGRAMS

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 4 100 Grannies Lecture Series “The Sum of Us” Book Club Device Advice Spring Gallery Walk: Hani Elkadi “Retrospective” Learn More About Dealing with Conflict Cinema Salon Fighting Against Fraud Red Cedar Chamber Music presents Crossover Quartet Spring Wildflower Hike SSRO Performance Community Coffee & Table to Table LIFELONG LEARNING 6 Viewing Values: Films of the 1960s Theology and You: Making a Difference What Was, What Remains Write Your Life Story Snakes of Iowa ART CLASSES Getting in Touch with Your Inner Creative Side You Can Draw (Yes, You Can!) Open Studio ICSC Photography Club Watercolor Techniques Workshop ICSC Nature Journal Club SPANISH CLASSES Barely Beginners Spanish Intermediate Conversational Spanish Reading Spanish Texts in Spanish Use It, Don’t Lose It Spanish Conversation SOCIAL CONNECTIONS 9 Laughter Yoga Death Cafe Book Report Original Mature Groovers Becoming Elder New Member Lunch Appreciation Party for Senior Center Members, Volunteers, and Donors Queer Elders Caregiving Support Group Sports Forum

Lyrics Alive Card Games Bowling Ukulele Friends

Let’s Play Scrabble! Coffee with Friends 50+ Singles Group Keep Us in Stitches Film Fridays & Free Popcorn WELLNESS 11 Hearing Loss & Amplification Walk With Ease Decreasing Stress/Anxiety Through Guided Imagery Unlocking Brain Fitness: KEYS to Dementia Prevention Solve, Don’t Settle: Treatments for Urinary Incontinence Build Better Bones with Exercise Sleep: A Key to Healthy Aging Muscle Matters: Build Strength Death Doulas/Midwives/Guides Advance Care Planning Workshop What’s Good for Your Heart Is Good for Your Brain: Book Club Changes in Sexual Functioning and the Genitourinary System Tinnitus Educational Session Water Mindfulness Mindfulness Practice Group Move Better, Feel Better Upper Body Work How to Use a Foam Roller to Feel Better Lower Back Work FITNESS & MOVEMENT Fitness Foundations Slow Flow Yoga Yoga with Esther BeMoved Dance Fit 4 Life with Lindsey Parkinson’s Exercise Class Qigong Movement for Wellbeing The Pomtastiks! Tap Dance Classes Zumba LIVE 2 B HEALTHY CLASSES Cardio Drumming Tai Ji Quan Strength, Balance, and Flexibility

SIGN UP FOR CLASSES! You can register: Online at

icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220

In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days a week during open hours

Check out our online registration how-to video at tinyurl.com/SC-onlinereg . For multi-session programs with registration, please sign up prior to the first meeting date and plan to attend all (or most) sessions. Some programs require you to register with the instructor or partner organization. In these cases, details are provided in the program description. Membership requirements: Current ICSC membership is a prerequisite for some classes. If membership is required, it will be noted in the program description. Fees: Programs are offered without charge unless otherwise noted. For in-person programs that have fees, please pay the instructor on the first day of class. For virtual programs with fees, payment instructions are

provided at the time of registration or soon after.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Stay connected with your community, tap into resources and partnerships

100 Grannies Lecture Series Wednesdays, Mar 5-26, 3-4 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Device Advice Thursdays through Apr 24, 2-3 pm Location: 1st Floor Lobby

Device Advice is a UI student volunteer group that works to help shrink the digital divide between generations! Volunteers will be at the Senior Center to offer guidance on all things technology, so bring your devices and your questions. No session on Mar 20.

The 2025 Barbara Schlachter and Ann Christenson Memorial Lecture Series is a partnership between the Iowa City Senior Center and 100 Grannies for a Livable Future. For over 10 years, this team of women has been working to inform and activate communities by drawing attention to risks to our environment. Meet some of the leaders who help move us to action, discuss priorities you care about and what you can do to support these efforts. Mar 5: David Cwiertny - Clean Water in Iowa Mar 12: Kristin Shevis - Reducing Plastic Pollution Mar 19: Glen Merzer - Food is Climate Mar 26: Dr. Jerald Schnoor - Climate Change, Wildfires, and Hurricanes: Where are we heading? Facilitator: Skylar Hoffman, Senior Center intern Join us each week as we gather to discuss Heather McGhee’s book, The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together . Prior to each meeting, book club members will read a portion of the book (around 50-60 pages) to prepare to engage in brave conversations surrounding how public and private policies and practices uphold racism and economic inequality in the United States. Using the book as a guide, we will ask ourselves how the sum of us, including people of all backgrounds, races, and identities, have been negatively affected by racism and what we all have to gain through its dismantling. This group will be facilitated by Skylar Hoffman, a Senior Center intern and social work student at the University of Iowa who is currently working toward a certificate in Critical Cultural Competence. Fee: $10 to cover the book cost; pay ICSC at registration (fee waived for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program). No meeting on Mar 20. “The Sum of Us” Book Club Thursdays, Mar 6 - May 1, 3-4 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Spring Gallery Walk: Hani Elkadi "Retrospective" Friday, Mar 7, 5-8 pm Location: Assembly Room

Artist Hani Elkadi was described by Iowa’s leading poet, the late Paul Engle, as “a true Renaissance man of the world.” An accomplished painter, author, poet, translator, journalist, and surgeon. He spent several years in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe before choosing Iowa City as his home in which to live, educate, and start a family with Ewa Barbach and their daughter Nina. About his art, Hani writes, “My art is my way of representing my thoughts and passions. I travel freely through various means of expression and a plethora of methods and materials. I deeply believe in the unlimited ways of looking at nature and the surroundings, people, and their emotions, imaginations, and dreams. I never tried to deny myself the right to choose the fittest style for each theme and subject matter. I hold the strong belief that, for every situation, there is a unique artistic approach that meets its particular needs. I was lucky enough to have a career that provided me with adequate means of survival and protected my art from compromises that the art market might dictate.” Hani’s art will be on display until the end of May. Learn More About Dealing with Conflict Monday, Mar 10, 2-3:30 pm Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Presenter: Annie Tucker Learn more about dealing with conflict through some interactive group exercises and find out about an upcoming mediation training and opportunity to become a trained volunteer small claims mediator.

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

REGISTER:

Cinema Salon Tuesdays, Mar 18, Apr 15, 3 pm

Spring Wildflower Hike Tuesday, Apr 22, 10 am

Location: FilmScene at The Chauncey Register online or call 319-356-5220 Iowa City Senior Center members are invited to FilmScene to view a new film each month, followed by a 30-minute discussion facilitated by Frank Murray. Frank has his Ph.D. from Stanford and 45 years of teaching literature, film, and philosophy. He enjoys examining the methods a film uses to convey meaning and to listen to what others see and understand about the film. Screenings are open to the public and seating is first come, first served. Films are announced about two weeks in advance. Register with the Senior Center by 5 pm the day before each screening. Fee: $6; pay at FilmScene box office. Register online or call 319-356-5220 Presenter: Ann Thompson, Iowa City Police Department, Victim Services Coordinator Increase your awareness of phone and internet fraud. Scammers are professionals who target all ages. Anyone can be caught off guard by an email or phone call that demands immediate attention or threatens something bad will happen if we don’t comply. Our brains go into reactive mode and we do what we’re told without stepping back and thinking through the situation. This course will share tips on how to spot a scam and provide tools to help you avoid financial loss and emotional trauma. Red Cedar Chamber Music presents Crossover Quartet Friday, Apr 18, 2 pm Location: Assembly Room Electric guitar? Yes! Composers Blake Shaw (double bass) and Dan Padley (electric guitar) join the core ensemble (Miera Kim on violin and Carey Bostian on cello) to form an eclectic string quartet. Several jazz standards will be offered as well as original works by both artists. Blake has been exploring the “Freegrass” style for years and has created a suite especially for us, and Dan’s unique sense of harmony and counterpoint will be on display through a multi-movement work. Don’t miss this inspiring collaboration. Fighting Against Fraud Friday, Apr 11, 1-2 pm Location: Room 302

Location: Cangleska Wakan (Solon) Register online or call 319-356-5220 Presenter: Johnson County Conservation

Take a 1-mile hike with a Johnson County Conservation naturalist to see and learn about the wildflowers in bloom on the forest floor. This hike is over a clay trail that may be slippery if there has been recent rain. The trail climbs steeply in a couple locations, and crosses a steeply curved bridge. Trekking poles or a walking stick recommended for anyone needing extra stability. A map will be provided with parking instructions a couple days before the event. This is a primitive site and currently does not have public restrooms. Membership required. Need a chuckle? Need a smile? Need to reminisce about days gone by? Look no further! Join S.S.R.O., the Senior Center's own Readers Theatre troupe for a unique take on everything you thought you already knew about life, entertainment, and the spoken and written word. You won't want to miss it! Refreshments to follow in the lobby. Community Coffee & Table to Table Mondays, 9 am - 12 pm Location: 1st Floor Lobby Start your week off with a cup of joe and some informal conversation in the 1st floor lobby of the Senior Center. All are welcome! Free grocery deliveries from Table to Table arrive in the Assembly Room, usually around 11 am on Mondays, and are open to anyone in need. Participants are called by age group (starting with the oldest) to enter the room to shop. Registration/check-in is required for Table to Table shopping. Table to Table bridges the gap between abundance and hunger. Its mission is to increase food equity and reduce environmental harm by collecting and redistributing surplus food, through partners like the Senior Center, to people who can use it. S.S.R.O. Performance Wednesday, Apr 30, 2 pm Location: Assembly Room

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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LIFELONG LEARNING Cultivate your curiosity, expand your perspective, develop new skills

What Was, What Remains Monday, Mar 10, 2-3 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Viewing Values: Films of the 1960's Fridays, Feb 28 - Apr 18, 10 am - 12 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Frank Murray The best movies are shaped by two main elements: artistic and thematic. This course offers specific techniques for interpreting the artistic elements in any film, and consideration of how the specific time period of the film influences the thematic elements. We will look at seven classic films of the 1960s, such as The Manchurian Candidate , The Pawnbroker , Dr. Strangelove , Bonnie and Clyde , The Graduate , In the Heat of the Night , and Easy Rider . Class meets on Fridays with the option to view films on your own or at the Senior Center on Tuesdays at 10 am. Membership required. Theology and You: Making a Difference Thursdays, Mar 6 - Apr 17 Location: Room 308 Instructor: Louis DeGrazia Morning session: 10:30 am - 12 pm Register online or call 319-356-5220 Afternoon session: 1:30-3 pm Register online or call 319-356-5220 When asking various persons if they know what theology is, I’m surprised with the responses. Often the reply is a questioning, not-knowing look. The great theologians of the 20th century, however, made a huge impact on our world and thinking, both religiously and politically. We will not be able to consider all the significant theologians but will focus on Karl Barth, Rudolf Bultmann, Nikolai Berdyacv, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Reinhold Niebuhr, Paul Tillich, and Teilhard de Chardin. Their contributions in the midst of dire political events shaped the religious and personal character of our time. Yes, theology makes a difference. Join us for a theological romp which will make your socks roll up and down! Membership required.

Join Marybeth Slonneger as she talks about her latest books, What Was, What Remains , Vol. 1 & 2 , based on years of research on lost and existing homes from the beginning of Iowa City through the turn of the century. When possible, a historic photo contrasts with the present-day home, highlighting positive and negative change. After preliminary history, Vol. 1 begins at Benton St. and goes alphabetically through Evans St. Vol. 2 takes up at Fairchild and ends with Woodlawn. Special topics like tower homes, oculus windows, decorative pediments, roof ornaments, and complicated porches are discussed throughout the 1,100 pages. Names of 573 original homeowners and builders are indexed at the end of each volume; over 1,500 photos provide a visual image of our city and possible reference for future owners. The books were researched, designed, and laid out by the author in two small editions of 200 copies each. Signed copies are available for those interested. Write Your Life Story Fridays, Mar 14, 28, Apr 11, 25, 1-2:30 pm Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Marge Daniels Write about the people, places, and events that have created your memories. We encourage and inspire writing using our own everyday voice (vocabulary, grammar, etc.). Authors usually read their stories for the other writers to listen and offer supportive and constructive comments to help the story. Sharing is optional. Membership required.

Snakes of Iowa Tuesday, Mar 18, 2-3 pm Location: Room 302

Register online or call 319-356-5220 Presenter: Johnson County Conservation

Join a Johnson County Conservation naturalist to learn more about our scaly friends, including their basic biology and more about various species native to southeast Iowa. After a presentation, a naturalist will bring out two live snakes for guests to meet, touch, and hold, if desired. Membership required.

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

REGISTER:

ART CLASSES

Watercolor Techniques Workshop Thursdays, Mar 6 - Apr 10, 10 am - 12 pm Location: Room G07 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Dr. Hani Elkadi This class will include independent and collaborative training of various techniques of watercolor usage as an art medium that needs no previous experience. Various activities will focus on two main objectives: the first is still life rendering of composition or an object, and the second is imaginative expression of various ideas and/or emotions as a visual response to an event, a poem, or a story. Students will need to bring good quality watercolor paper, a set of 24 watercolors, and a set of Prisma color pencils. Both new and returning students are welcome. Fee: $140 ($105 for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program); pay instructor. ICSC Nature Journal Club Thursdays, Mar 6, Apr 3, 2-4 pm Location: To be determined Register online or call 319-356-5220 Group leader: Sara Cavic Meet monthly to journal together, either at a local park or natural area when weather permits, or at the Senior Center in case of inclement weather. Whether you’re already a nature journaler or have never done it before, all are welcome to join this group! No art or writing experience required—but curiosity about the natural world or a desire to observe and know it more deeply is encouraged. Bring any materials you are comfortable carrying and using. Nature journaling can be a combination of art and writing, or just one or the other—whatever you prefer. A notebook and pen/pencil is all you need to get started. Informal instruction in drawing and watercolor will be offered during our meetings for those interested. The goal of the group is to foster community and connection, with each other and with the natural world around us. There will be time for sharing our work, resources, questions, victories, or challenges, but sharing is optional. Membership required.

Getting In Touch with Your Inner Creative Side Mondays, Mar 3 - Apr 28, 12-1:30 pm Location: Room 309 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Anke Fronz, Certified Health and Wellness Coach Join us to explore the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron and take it a step further with interactive creative exercises. This class can help you unblock your creativity, reignite your inner source of unlimited ideas, uncover what is holding you back from being the creative wonder-full soul you are, and support you in a creative community. You do not need to be a seasoned artist or have taken any other art class to enjoy and benefit from this class. This will be a fun class with some reading and enjoyable creative exercises available to accomplish between classes. You will need to purchase the book for the class. Handouts will be provided. Fee: $85 ($63.75 for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program); pay instructor. Membership Required. Learn about observation and drawing what you see rather than what you think you see. This class explains how to see things as basic shapes and turn those shapes into drawings, how light works and how to draw it, and how to create that illusion of three dimensions on a two-dimensional surface. We will explore some different drawing techniques in a variety of projects. Repeat students welcome. Required text: Your Artist's Brain, Carl Purcell (2010). Suggested materials: Ebony or other drawing pencils, white vinyl eraser, kneaded eraser, pencil sharpener, 14x17 drawing pad. If you already have materials, bring those. Fee: $75 ($56.25 for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program); pay instructor. Membership required. You Can Draw (Yes, You Can!) Tuesdays, Mar 4 - May 13, 9:30-11:30 am Location: Room G07 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Garth Conley

Open Studio Wednesdays, 9 am - 2 pm Location: Room G07 Join fellow artists using water based oils, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, and all other 2-D media. Bring your own materials. This is an open studio, no instruction is provided.

ICSC Photography Club Thu, Mar 20, Apr 17, 3-4 pm Location: Assembly Room Register online or call 356-5220 Join the ICSC Photography Club, hosted by staff member Brad Mowrey, for monthly meetings to discuss gear, show photos, tell stories, and ask questions. Beginners welcome, experts too.

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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SPANISH CLASSES

Barely Beginners Spanish Wednesdays, Mar 5 - Apr 16, 10-11 am Location: Room 309 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Corinne Stanley In this class, students will be introduced to pronunciation rules, you will learn to ask and answer questions, pronounce and use numbers in a practical way, and learn useful phrases that facilitate cultural understanding. Corinne Stanley has an MA in Spanish, lived in Mexico and Latin America for over 8 years, and has 30 years of language instruction experience. Instructor fee: $40 ($30 for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program); pay instructor at first class. Material fee: $5; pay ICSC at registration. Membership required. Intermediate Conversational Spanish Tuesdays, 1-2 pm Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: William Heald Many find the most difficult part of conversing in a foreign language to be hearing with understanding, an essential component of conversation. Increasing familiarity with the language is the only sure path to success. In this intermediate conversational Spanish group, we try to master the grammatical and vocabulary skills necessary for reading and conversing in Spanish. For more information about this group, contact william-heald@hotmail.com. Membership required. Reading Spanish Texts in Spanish Tuesdays, 2-3 pm Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: William Heald This group read and translate intermediate level Spanish texts, then discuss them. We will read some famous Spanish authors and other works of interest to participants. This is not a Spanish conversation group. Use It, Don't Lose It! Spanish Conversation Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 am Location: Zoom Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Jessica Ortiz Let's practice your Spanish with a native speaker. This conversation group for intermediate to advance levels will have a different topic and vocabulary each week. Membership required.

Laughter Yoga Mondays, Mar 3 - Apr 28, 3-3:45 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Leader: Michelle Buhman

Laughter Yoga is a unique exercise routine that combines unconditional laughter with yogic breathing (pranayama). Anyone can laugh without relying on humor or jokes. Laughter is initially simulated as a physical exercise while maintaining eye contact with others in the group and promoting childlike playfulness. This usually leads to real and contagious laughter. Each session starts with gentle warm-up techniques, which include stretching, chanting, clapping, and body movement. Breathing exercises prepare the lungs for laughter, followed by a series of laughter exercises that combine acting and visualization techniques with playfulness. Each session ends with a laughter meditation. The session on Mar 10 will begin at 4 pm.

Death Cafe Fridays, Mar 7, Apr 4 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Location: Hybrid (Room 308 & Zoom) Register to receive Zoom link

A Death Café is a safe place for people to talk about death in order to make the most of life. New people are encouraged to join anytime. This is not a bereavement support group or grief counseling session. This is open to people of all ages, no membership or registration required. For more information, visit deathcafe.com.

Book Report Tue, Mar 11, Apr 8, 10:30 am - 12 pm Location: Room 309 Facilitator: Cheryl Walsh

A book club that meets once a month for an informal round table discussion and sharing of books you have enjoyed reading. Choose your favorite author, old or new, best sellers or classics, fiction, non-fiction, short stories, or poetry. Feel free to come just to listen.

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

REGISTER:

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS Create new friendships, find support, boost your resilience, prioritize joy!

Original Mature Groovers Wednesdays, Mar 19, Apr 16, 12-1 pm Location: Assembly Room Host: LaTasha DeLoach This group aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for older people of color to share their diverse perspectives and stories and foster new connections. Through regular meetings and events, members have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and learn from each other. The OMGers group welcomes all people of color age 50+ to join. For more information, contact ICSC Coordinator LaTasha DeLoach at ldeloach@iowa-city.org or 319-356-5225. Join us as we explore what it means to “become elder” and how we might bring our life wisdom and unique gifts to others. We base our discussions on short readings by various authors, though no preparation is needed. Elderhood involves much more than the accumulation of lived years. Elderhood evolves when those lived years contribute to a special wisdom and vision that are shared with the community and society. In many ways, elderhood is the pinnacle of developing one’s wholeness as a person. Coming into wholeness is a lifelong process, and it continues in elderhood. Our monthly discussion series follows Parker Palmer’s Circle of Trust® approach, which invites the individual soul to show up in a safe space, where it can be heard and supported by a trustworthy community. Becoming Elder Fridays, Mar 21, Apr 18, 1-3 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: Thomas Dean

Appreciation Party for Senior Center Members, Volunteers, and Donors Tuesday, Apr 29, 4-6 pm Location: Terry Trueblood Recreation Area Register online or call 319-356-5220 We are throwing a party for you! If you’re an ICSC member, volunteer, or donor, you’re invited to celebrate all your contributions that make the Iowa City Senior Center one of the best in the nation! The party will be at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, in the park lodge from 4-6 PM. Food trucks will be back and ready to take your order! Please RSVP by Thursday, Apr 24. This is a social group for LGBTQ elders to come together, share stories, and find community. We have meetings on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month and watch movies on the alternate weeks. In addition to organizing social activities for members, the group supports the LBGTQ Iowa Archives and Library through collecting oral histories and gathering materials for the archive. For those with interest, there are also outlets for sharing our experiences with the wider community. For regular updates, join our Facebook page, “Queer Elders of Iowa City.” Queer Elders Wednesdays, 2 pm Location: Room 308

Caregiving Support Group Fridays, 9:30-11 am Location: Hybrid (Room 308 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: Mary McCall

New Member Lunch Wednesday, Mar 26, 12 pm Location: Assembly Room Register online or call 319-356-5220

This ongoing, drop-in group provides a space for sharing experiences, resources, and support related to caregiving, with a focus on self-care. Meetings begin with a meditation about self-care and open sharing is integrated with learning various self-care practices. Participants are welcome to attend in - person or via Zoom, regularly or as they are able. Outside of the group, individuals can meet with the facilitator to assess and refer to outside resources in the community for caregiving and self-care.

Senior Center members who have joined in the last year are invited for lunch at the Senior Center. Get acquainted with the Senior Center facility, meet new friends, and connect with staff. Register by Mar 24 to reserve your spot. We look forward to seeing you! Membership required.

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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Sports Forum Mondays through Apr 7, 9-10 am Location: Hybrid (Room 308 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: George Sauerberg

Let's Play Scrabble! Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 pm Location: 1st Floor Lobby

Exercise your vocabulary and crossword skills. Come for some fun, friendly word play on a giant Scrabble board. Nancy Ostrognai hosts the games. Coffee with Friends Thursdays, 9 am - 12 pm Location: 1st Floor Lobby Enjoy a cup of coffee courtesy of Friends of ICSC each week in the Senior Center lobby. Strike up a conversation, read the newspaper, work on the puzzle, play a game, or listen to the band rehearse. This is a great time to connect with others and take in the day’s sights and sounds. 50+ Singles Group Thursdays, 9:30-11 am Location: Midtown Family Restaurant (West) Gather Thursday mornings and one weekend evening each month with other singles ages 50+. We meet to eat, laugh, talk, and make new friends. No dues, no commitment, no agenda, no RSVP (except for dinner). Separate checks. Weekly breakfasts meet at Midtown Family Restaurant 2 (1069 Highway 1 W, IC). Monthly dinners are held at a different restaurant each month. For details, email icfiftyplussingles@gmail.com or call David at 319-530-5001. Join us any time to knit, sew, crochet, weave-- whatever fiber craft strikes your fancy! Gather with your fiber friends for conversation, sharing, and helpful support. Film Fridays & Free Popcorn Fridays, 2 pm Location: Room 302 or Assembly Room Mar 7: Sideways (2004) Mar 14: Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat (2024) Mar 21: The Problem with People (2024) Mar 28: Madeleine Collins (2022) Keep Us in Stitches Fridays, 1-3 pm Location: Room 311

At these informal gatherings of Hawkeye fans, we discuss Iowa sports and other sports, with occasional visits from guest speakers. Guests are announced throughout the season in the Senior Center’s weekly email newsletter. Lyrics Alive Mondays, 1:30-3 pm Location: Hybrid (Assembly Room & Zoom) Register to receive Zoom link The Senior Center's all-request singing group meets each week for the joy of group singing, without the pressure of performing. We usually sing with live accompaniment (Jon Ranard on piano and Jim Schepker on guitar) or sometimes sing a cappella. Join us in-person at the Senior Center or listen in and sing along online. Card Games Mondays, 1:30-3 pm Location: 1st Floor Lobby Join us on Mondays to play either Euchre or Pinochle. Mary Ann Letizio hosts the games. Bowling Tuesdays, Mar 4, 18, Apr 1, 15, 1-3 pm Location: Colonial Lanes The Senior Bowling Group meets on Tuesdays (1st/3rd of month). The cost is $3 per game, and we usually bowl two games. Balls and shoes are available at Colonial Lanes with a cost for shoe rental, or bring your own if you have them. We bowl for fun and fellowship; all are welcome, please join us! For more information, contact Ginger Hanson at 319-621-4127 or sentral73@yahoo.com.

Ukulele Friends Wednesdays, 1-2:30 pm Location: Room 311

Do you play the ukulele or are you interested in learning? Do you enjoy singing simple, familiar songs? Please consider sitting in with a friendly group who get together once a week to practice, learn new songs, and chat. You’ll be welcome whether you want to play, sing, or just listen.

Apr 4: Greyhound (2020 Apr 11: Conclave (2024) Apr 18: Evil Does Not Exist (2024) Apr 25: La Chimera (2024)

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

REGISTER:

Attend to your wellbeing, exercise your autonomy, live your best life WELLNESS

Decreasing Stress and Anxiety Through Guided Imagery

Hearing Loss & Amplification Monday, Mar 3, 11 am - 1 pm Location: Room 308 Presenters: UI Audiology graduate student clinicians and Eun Kyung (Julie) Jeon, AuD/PhD Join us for an informational session to learn with others about hearing and hearing loss, tinnitus, hearing aids (prescription and over-the-counter), and cochlear implants. Those with hearing loss and their frequent communication partners are welcomed. We will also introduce some communication strategies to practice together. Please bring your questions. Walk with Ease Leaders: Emily Edrington, Skylar Hoffman North Liberty class: Tue, Wed, Fri, Mar 4 - Apr 18, 10-11 am Location: North Liberty Recreation Center Register online or call 319-356-5220 Iowa City class: Mon, Wed, Fri, Mar 24 - May 2, 11 am - 12 pm Location: Room 311 Register online or call 319-356-5220 The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease Program is a community-based physical activity and self-management education program. While walking is the central activity, Walk With Ease also includes health education, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies. The program includes a guidebook and a walking schedule to get you safely moving toward better health. These classes meet three times a week for six weeks. This is an evidence based program that has been proven to improve the quality of life of people with arthritis, but anyone who wants to add regular activity into their lives can benefit. The North Liberty group will walk on the indoor track and potentially outdoors if the weather is inviting. The Iowa City group will walk outdoors in and around downtown Iowa City, moving indoors when inclement weather dictates.

Wednesdays, Mar 5-26, 12-1 pm Wednesdays, Apr 2-23, 12-1 pm Location: Room 309 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Instructor: Anke Fronz, Certified Health and Wellness Coach Guided imagery uses mental visualization to help increase relaxation and shift mind patterns. Use of guided imagery and/or meditation can help to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep and immune function. People who practice guided imagery often notice improved focus, clarity, and coping skills. Thousands of studies have proven the many benefits of meditation, and use of these techniques can change your day-to-day flow and can be fun and beneficial to your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual life. Fee: $40 for 4-week session ($30 for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program); pay instructor. Membership required. Unlocking Brain Fitness: KEYS to Dementia Prevention Thursdays, Mar 6 - May 8, 10 am - 12 pm Location: Room 302 Register: Contact Lisa Parlato at 319-688-5892 or KEYS is a 10-week course on risk factors and preventive steps you can take to lower your risk of cognitive impair ment and related dementias. Each week we introduce a different “Key” topic: Eat Well, Get Moving, Be Social, Hear Well, Stay Sharp, Sleep Enough, Control Chronic Disease, Build Stress Resilience, Use Right Medications, and Promote Health. The program also includes one-on-one meetings with a UI student health coach to set and track personal health goals to support continued success after the class. Learn more at www.unlockingbrainfitness.org. Solve, Don't Settle: Treatments for Urinary Incontinence Tuesday, Mar 11, 3-4 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220 This program will focus on different types of incontinence and treatment options. It is important to understand that incontinence is not a normal part of aging. lparlato@johnsoncountyiowa.gov Presenter: Johnson County Public Health

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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HEALTHY AGING SERIES This series is presented by Jake Raecker, a physical therapist who works to help older adults age on their own terms. After earning his doctorate from Washington University in 2020, Jake completed a residency in Geriatrics through the Mayo Clinic. Jake has worked in outpatient and hospital settings, and has experience speaking at national physical therapy conferences. Jake owns a practice in Coralville and delivers group and individual fitness training to older adults. Build Better Bones: The Impact of Exercise on Bone Health Wednesday, Apr 2, 12-1 pm Location: Hybrid (Room 302 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220 Exercise, specifically weight-bearing and impact exercise, is critical for people wanting to maximize their bone health and avoid fractures as they age. Unfortunately, many people with low bone density, osteopenia, or osteoporosis have been told not to bend, lift, or twist, creating confusion and fear about what they can and can’t do. This class will cover why certain types of movement are helpful for bone health and how you can strengthen your bones as you age. Sleep: A Key to Healthy Aging Wednesday, Apr 9, 12-1 pm How do our sleep needs change as we age? What is REM sleep? How does sleep impact my memory, my heart, and my pain? Why do I pee so much at night? Attendees will walk away with answers to these questions and more. Come learn things you can immediately apply to your lives to sleep better and age better. Muscle Matters: Building Strength for Better Aging Wednesday, Apr 16, 12-1 pm As we age, muscle loss can significantly impact our health, independence, and quality of life. This engaging lecture explores practical strategies to rebuild muscle through proper nutrition and strength training, and why maintaining muscle is essential for aging well. Join us to gain actionable insights that can help you stay strong, active, and resilient at any age! Location: Hybrid (Room 302 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220 Location: Hybrid (Room 302 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220

Death Doulas/Midwives/Guides Wednesday, Mar 12, 10-11 am Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Presenter: Mary McCall

In this session, a panel of death midwives will share their roles in supporting individuals, families, and friends when someone is facing a terminal diagnosis or hospice and end-of-life. We’ll explore the backgrounds of the midwives and their areas of specialty, ranging from legacy projects to rituals to death plans to sitting vigil the last days/hours, as well as after-death plans and care for loved ones. Bring your friends, family, and lots of questions! Advance Care Planning Workshop Friday, Mar 21, 12-2 pm Location: Room 308 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Mary McCall We can't predict when a sudden illness or injury could leave us unable to communicate or make decisions. Learn how to talk about and document your health care preferences to ensure that your family, friends, and health care team know what's important to you and your wishes are honored. What Is Good for Your Heart Is Good for Your Brain: A Brain Wellness Book Club Wednesdays, Apr 2 - May 7, 10-11:30 am Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Join Michelle Voss and guests from her UI Health, Brain, and Cognition Lab for a book club series that will interactively guide you through Peter Attia’s book Outlive, with a focus on brain wellness. This six-week class will cover how heart and metabolic health affect your personal risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s, and how/why physical activity and sleep hygiene are essential to brain wellness. We will have assigned readings each week, followed by discussion and interactive activities during class. Each class ends with reflection on your lifestyle and developing personal tactics to build brain wellness. The book is provided. Fee: $10 to cover part of the book cost; pay ICSC at registration (fee waived for participants in ICSC's low-income membership program). Membership required.

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

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MOVE BETTER, FEEL BETTER This series is presented by Megan Valencia, a licensed massage therapist with more than twenty years of experience.

Changes in Sexual Functioning and the Genitourinary System Tuesday, Apr 15, 5:30-6:30 pm

Location: Hybrid (Room 302 & Zoom) Register online or call 319-356-5220

All are welcome to this session to learn about common age-related changes in sexual health and the organs that make urine and carry it out of the body. Medical students from Carver College of Medicine’s Urology Interest Group will present this lecture with supervision from Dr. Amanda Swanton, urologist specialized in men’s health, and Dr. Annah Vollstedt, urologist specialized in female pelvic medicine. We’ll take questions at the end of the presentation. Submit topics or questions by Mar 15 using the anonymous online form at https://forms.gle/bSt9LqK9W7iwjRQw8 and we’ll try to incorporate them into our presentation. Tinnitus Educational Session Monday, Apr 21, 11 am - 1 pm Location: Room 308 Presenters: University of Iowa Audiology graduate student clinicians and Eun Kyung (Julie) Jeon, AuD/PhD Do you experience ringing or buzzing in your ears and need help? If so, please come join us for a free info session on tinnitus and how to manage it. Your frequent communication partners are welcomed. Water Mindfulness Tuesdays, 9-10 am Location: Robert A. Lee Recreation Center Pool Instructor: Mark Cannon Experience the synergistic healing and relaxing qualities of both water and mindfulness. We will explore breathing, water walking, and gentle exercises as a means of being present in the moment. These activities will take place in shallow water to accommodate individuals who haven't developed a sense of safety in deeper water. This class is offered for free, walk-ins welcome. For more info, email markc39@gmail.com. Mindfulness Practice Group Tuesdays, 3:30-4 pm Location: Zoom Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: Emily Edrington Join us on Zoom for a weekly group practice of guided meditation and supportive conversation. Cultivate your skills for living in the now rather than worrying about the future, dwelling on the past, or zoning out on autopilot. This awareness can help us respond wisely to whatever life throws at us.

Move Better, Feel Better Monday, Mar 3, 1-2 pm Location: Room 302 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Megan Valencia will present the basics of body movement, how to move to reduce pain, and ways to unwind soft tissue using the Rossiter technique. Rossiter is a technique that uses active stretching movements to enhance mobility and reduce pain.

Upper Body Work Monday, Mar 10, 1-2 pm Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Share your individual story of pain in your upper body (shoulders, neck, arms) and learn more about your problem area in a small group setting. Every participant will receive a little bodywork (Rossiter) from Megan to stretch and speed healing, as well as some exercises and stretches to do at home to continue improvement. Fee: $50; pay instructor. Membership required. How to Use a Foam Roller to Feel Better Monday, Mar 31, 1-2 pm Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220 In this presentation, Megan will show you how to use the foam rollers in our workout area. These rollers can be used on many areas of the body before a workout. Megan will help you learn how to use them to alleviate pain as well. When you are done with the class you will know how to foam roll on your own. Membership required.

Lower Back Work Monday, Apr 7, 1-2 pm Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220

Share your individual story of pain in your lower back, hips, upper legs and learn more about your problem area in a small group setting. Every participant will receive a little bodywork (Rossiter) from Megan to stretch and speed healing, as well as some exercises and stretches to do at home to continue improvement. Fee: $50; pay instructor. Membership required.

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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FITNESS & MOVEMENT

BeMoved Dance

Mondays, Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 am Wednesdays, 1-2 pm Location: Room G13 Register: Email hillster2942@icloud.com Instructor: Hillary Granfield

Fitness Foundations Mondays, Wednesdays, 8:30-9 am Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Kam Atwater Work on total body strength and mobility, with a focus on proper lifting form. The class consists of both seated and standing movements, with modifications provided as needed. Join us for fun workouts and great company! Kam is a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist. Fee: $8/session or $105 for a 15-session punch card; pay instructor. Membership required. Slow Flow Yoga Mondays, Fridays, 9:15 - 10:15 am Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Christoph Weismayer This class starts with a slow flow warm-up and then slows down to study a few poses in greater detail with optional prop use. Then a few poses to re-energize and we conclude with passive stretches, relaxation techniques, and Savasana. Perfect for those looking for a beginning to intermediate level yoga class. Fee: $8/class or $70 for 10 classes; pay instructor. Membership required. Wednesdays, 10-11 am Location: Hybrid (Room G13 & Zoom) Saturdays, 8:30-9:30 am Location: Zoom Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Esther Retish This class emphasizes breathing, balance, and focus while increasing strength and flexibility. Having some prior yoga experience is helpful. Fee: $7/class (up to $35/month); pay instructor. Membership required. Yoga with Esther Mondays, 11 am - 12 pm Location: Zoom

A dance fitness experience for all movement abilities; new students are welcome anytime. Visit bemoveddance.com to learn more. Fee: $12 per class drop-in, with discounts available for regular weekly attendance; pay instructor.

Fit 4 Life with Lindsey Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-9:45 am Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Instructor: Lindsey Reed

Join us for a fun and functional workout focused on full body strength and stability, balance, and flexibility. Members will use a variety of weights and strength bands. Exercises will be done from a chair, standing, and on the floor for those who are able. Come enjoy a great body workout in a social atmosphere. Fee: $8/session or $105 for 15-class punch card; pay instructor. Membership required.

Parkinson's Exercise Class Wednesdays, 10-11 am Location: Assembly Room Register with the instructor at the first class

This class is designed for individuals with Parkinson's Disease and uses a variety of exercises to work on movement strategies, gait, balance, strength and flexibility. This class may use equipment, including hand weights, bands and balls. This class is sponsored by the American Parkinson Disease Association Iowa Chapter and there is no cost to participate for individuals with Parkinson's Disease and care partners. Qigong Movement for Wellbeing Wednesdays, 11:15 am - 12 pm Location: North Liberty Recreation Center Aerobics Room Register online or call 319-356-5220 Facilitator: Emily Edrington Qigong, sometimes called the grandmother of tai chi, is the basic exercise system within Chinese medicine. It focuses on opening the places in your body where your circulating energy is blocked, allowing your life force, known as qi, to flow freely. As a slow moving, peaceful, meditative form of exercise, qigong can be practiced by people of all ages and abilities. We will use a mix of videos from the Great Courses to lead our routines. The movements in this course are slow and simple, and always carefully modeled and explained. The practice of qigong, time-tested over thousands of years, has the potential to improve your physical fitness, free your mind, and energize your life with renewed vitality.

Online at icgov.org/senior/registration By phone, call 319-356-5220 In-person at the Senior Center, 7 days/week during open hours

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LIVE 2 B HEALTHY CLASSES ICSC is excited to partner with Live 2 B Healthy to offer three new fitness classes! These classes are free for those with SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, Renew Active, and One Pass (health insurance fitness programs); or you can participate for a fee if you do not have a qualifying insurance plan. Register with the Live 2 B Healthy instructor at your first class (enrollment is not taken through the Senior Center). For more information, contact Kelly Nygard at 612-460-0445 or kellyn@live2bhealthy.com.

The Pomtastiks! Wednesdays, 2:45-3:45 pm Location: Room G13 If you like to dance, enjoy music, are excited to learn choreography, and are comfortable performing in public, check out The Pomtastiks! We have 20+ choreographed dances in our repertoire and use poms and props to add fun and variety to each performance. We practice our choreography together weekly and at home using DVDs. New members welcome, stop by a practice to meet us! For info, call Shirley at 319 351-5872. Membership required. Tap Dance Classes Instructor: Patti Burger Join our ongoing tap classes any time for great exercise, fun music, and new friends! Comfortable clothes and tap shoes encouraged. Membership required. Beginning Tap Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 am Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220 Introduces the fundamental steps, rhythms, and vocabulary of tap dance. No experience needed.

Cardio Drumming Tuesdays, Mar 4 - Apr 29, 1-1:45

Location: Room G13 Instructor: Alina Loehr

An energetic, low-impact workout that combines rhythmic drumming with movement to improve strength, balance, and flexibility while enhancing cognitive function through rhythm and coordination challenges. Participants use exercise balls, stability balls, buckets and drumsticks, creating a fun and engaging environment. Fee: $74 for 8 sessions, $7 for drop-in, pay instructor; or free with SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, Renew Active, One Pass.

Tai Ji Quan Thursdays, Mar 6 - Apr 24, 1-1:45 PM

Location: Room G13 Instructor: Alina Loehr

Beginning-Intermediate Tap Thursdays, 11:35 am - 12:50 pm Location: Room G13 Register online or call 319-356-5220

This class for seniors offers a gentle, flowing form of exercise that enhances balance, flexibility, and overall well-being. This martial art emphasizes slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing, making it accessible for all fitness levels. Fee: $74 for 8 sessions, $7 for drop-in, pay instructor; or free with SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, Renew Active, One Pass. Strength, Balance & Flexibility Wednesdays, Fridays, Mar 5 - Apr 30, 9:15-10 am Location: Assembly Room Instructor: Matt Seemuth This engaging program, led by a nationally certified fitness professional experienced in 55+ adult fitness, aims to reduce fall risk and promote independence through a variety of exercises using small balls, light weights, loops, and bands. Classes focus on building core and stabilizing muscle strength. Fee: $140 for 15 sessions, $7 for drop-in, pay instructor; or free with SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, Renew Active, One Pass.

Adds and develops intermediate tap steps, vocabulary, and rhythms onto basic tap skills.

Zumba Saturdays, 10-11 am Location: Room G13 Instructor: Holly Carpenter

Zumba is a fun, easily modifiable, low impact dance class, great for heart and brain health. Zumba trains bilateral coordination and balance, enhances spatial awareness, processing speed, and working memory. We start with a warm-up that introduces Latin dance steps, build on these movements during class, and end with cool down and stretching. No experience needed; just come join the party! Fee: $15/drop-in or a discount for punch card; pay instructor.

icgov.org/senior 319-356-5220 28 South Linn Street, Iowa City 52240

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*Participants in ICSC's low-income membership program receive a 25% discount on most fitness classes.