Levy e-News: Special Events, Insightful Politics, Downsizing Seminar, and more!

Monday, March 18, 2024   |   View in browser

Good Afternoon,

Jamming Jean Concert - Friday, March 22

Derrick Procell is a harmonica player who is a soulful singer with a baritone voice and a two-fisted piano player who drives the rhythm home. Together with his solid band, they dig deep into soul and blues.

The concert is free and open to the public on Fri., March 22, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Maple Room at the Levy Senior Center.

Hecky’s Barbecue will be on-site with the fare for cash purchases. Grab dinner from this Evanston institution, and enjoy while you tap into the tunes. A selection of wine and beer will also be available from the cash bar.

Spring into our programs

The full Spring Program Guide is available. This digital only issue provides hundreds of recreation programs, special events, and ways to keep you healthy, active, and having fun this season. View all upcoming adult and senior programs and events in our spring brochure on pages 31 through 38.

Register online or by calling the Levy Senior Center at 847-448-8250.

Quick links to some of your favorite classes:

Fitness Classes

SilverSneakers Classes

Pickleball Workshops

Taekwondo Classes

Art & Music Classes

Dance Classes

A Night to Remember

Join us on Fri., May 3, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., for A Night to Remember. Enjoy live music by the Stingrays playing 50's and 60's music and exciting raffles! There will also be delicious food and drinks to purchase. Proceeds from the event will go to Levy Senior Center Renovations. Register by April 19 by calling Levy Senior Center Front Desk at 847-448-8250 to signup or you can also sign up online. Come join us at Levy for A Night to Remember!

Spring Aloha Special Event - April 12

Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Spring Aloha on Fri., April 12 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Indulge in the delicious tradition of a pig roast and chicken. As you savor the mouthwatering feast, let the enchanting rhythms and graceful movements of Hawaiian dancers transport you to the idyllic shores of the Pacific. With every sway and twirl, experience the warmth of Aloha, and celebrate the season with a perfect blend of tropical delights and lively entertainment. Register by Mon., April 1.

Insightful Politics with Charles Madigan

Insightful Politics is a dynamic and inclusive political discussion group aimed at fostering informed dialogue and meaningful exchange of ideas on contemporary political issues. In today's complex socio-political landscape, it's essential to create spaces where diverse perspectives are respected and constructive conversations thrive.

From domestic policy to international relations, and economic theories to social justice movements, we delve into issues that shape our world with depth and nuance. Come to the library of the Levy Senior Center on Wednesdays every week from noon to 1:30 p.m.

March Finance Series

The topic for March is "Financial Fitness - Power of Budgeting," which will explore the importance of creating and maintaining a budget, examine the difference between wants and needs, and explain how to set goals for personal spending, savings and debt repayment.

This seminar is sponsored and led by Neil Gardner of Edward Jones Financial in Skokie and is offered via Zoom. To register, please call the Levy Senior Center at 847-448-8250. 

Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Fee: Free, registration required

Aging Well Series - Downsizing Seminar

Learn when it is time to downsize and how to do it successfully. This seminar is hosted by the Booker Group with guest speaker Lorri Raizes from Senior Living Specialists on Tues., March 26, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., in Bobby's Room.

RTA Group Transit Orientation Presentation

Come join us on Tues., April 2, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., for a an RTA group transit presentation at the Levy Senior Center. Bianca Diaz, mobility outreach coordinator, will present on local public transportation options, RTA's reduced fare and free ride programs, a free travel training program, and a brief Q&A afterwards.

Levy Vaccine Clinic

The Levy Senior Center has teamed up with Jewel-Osco Pharmacy to host a Vaccine Clinic on Wed., April 3, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. You will be able to choose from the Flu, Covid-Pfizer, or RSV vaccines. Call the Levy front desk at 847-448-8250 to make an appointment.

Dementia Friendly Movie Night - Queen Bees

Dementia Friendly Movie Nights are presented in a unique setting with softer sound and ambient lighting for the comfort of people living with dementia as well as their caregivers and friends. Attendees are welcome to engage with the presentation, and they are encouraged to participate by expressing themselves through talking, clapping, tapping their feet, swaying, singing along, and even getting up to dance. Call the Levy Front Desk at 847-448-8250 to register.

Bilingual Community Yoga with Evolutions

Discover tranquility and rejuvenation with our April lineup of free community yoga sessions at the Levy Senior Center. Join us for gentle chair yoga, standing chair yoga, and guided meditation sessions expertly led by Joseph Ortega with Evolutions, LLC. Don't miss our bilingual offerings for an inclusive experience. Classes take place on Mon., April 22 and Tues., April 23. Secure your spot by calling the Levy Center front desk at 847-448-8250. You must be a Levy member to register.

Vibrant Living Class

Join our Vibrant Living group wellness program for women, led by Certified Health Coach Jennifer Reddick, beginning on Thurs., April 4, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. You'll love exchanging wellness-related tips and tricks and are likely to make a few new friends along the way.

Volunteer Program: Golden Greeters

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Golden Greeters volunteer program and are inviting all seniors at the Levy Senior Center to join us in making a positive impact. The Golden Greeters program aims to connect seniors with meaningful volunteer opportunities within our center and beyond.

If you are interested in becoming a Golden Greeter volunteer, please fill out the form provided below. Your participation will not only enrich the lives of others, but also provide you with a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Sign up to volunteer

Movies for Members

Don't forget to save the date for our weekly movie event for Levy members. To be included on the list, you must be a current Levy member and must pre-register by calling the Levy front desk at 847-448-8250. We encourage you to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy the movie with us.

Volunteer for Hoops for the Ages Senior Basketball Tournament

Volunteers are needed for the 2024 Hoops for the Ages Senior 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament being held at the Levy Senior Center and the Robert Crown Community Center on Sat., April 27. 

Be a part of this exciting event that will qualify male and female senior athletes for the basketball competition at the 2025 National Senior Games. We need help with three volunteer opportunities: team registration, game timers, and game scorers. Each volunteer shift runs two hours. No experience is necessary as we'll show you what to do before your shift begins.   

The Hoops for the Ages Tournament Volunteer page provides an overview of the tournament and the volunteer opportunities. You can sign up to volunteer using a link on that page. 

If you have any questions, please contact Bob at bswel4@gmail.com. Thank you in advance for supporting Hoops for the Ages.

Levy Lecture Series: Everyday Improv 

Learn to use the techniques of a master improviser to strengthen relationships, spark connections, and maintain cognitive agility. In this highly interactive — and unapologetically playful! — Zoom workshop on Tues., April 9 at 1:30pm, Second City alum Sue Gillan will lead volunteers through a series of conversations designed to help us all build the improvisational skills to stay mentally sharp and socially engaged.

Lakeshore Shuffle 

Get your running shoes ready! On April 27, the tranquil lakeshore will come alive with the spirited footsteps of participants in the Lakeshore Shuffle 5K Run & Walk.

With stunning views of Lake Michigan as your backdrop, this event offers participants a unique blend of scenic beauty and energetic competition. Whether you're a seasoned runner or prefer walking, the Lakeshore Shuffle 5K welcomes all. Join us for a morning of camaraderie, fitness, and fun as we shuffle our way along Evanston's breathtaking lakefront path. 

For more information, visit cityofevanston.org/register.

Evanston Woodturners

Come check out this monthly group Evanston Woodturners who are meeting March 27 at 10 a.m. in Craft Room A to discuss the art of woodturning. You must have previous experience and be an intermediate to advanced turner to participate.

Drop-in Pickleball

Visit us at the Levy Senior Center every Monday and Wednesday between noon and 3 p.m., and on Sundays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to enjoy drop-in pickleball.

• $5 per person. Please pay at the front desk before playing.
• Three lined pickleball courts are available
• Nets and balls will be provided
• Players must provide paddles

Players are responsible for organizing games and being respectful of court time. All skill levels are welcome.

Levy Membership

Get ready to level up your 2024 at the Levy Senior Center with our brand-new membership program. It's not just a membership, it's your golden ticket to a year of fun, fitness, and fabulous discounts. From Monday, Jan. 1, through Tuesday, Dec. 31, buckle up for exclusive perks such as class discounts, a sweet deal on a rental, and unlimited access to our fitness wonderland. You'll be part of the coolest club in town for just $50 annually (resident rate) or $70 for non-residents. Renewing your Levy membership is easy! Just give us a call or stop by the front desk to start enjoying awesome adventures and savings all year long.

Songs by Heart

Therapeutic sing-alongs will be held on Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. in the Levy Library. The Songs by Heart program encourages people at all cognitive levels to engage with others and the world. ‘Songs by Heart’ has partnered with the Levy Senior Center to provide their first regular programs for people living outside of retirement communities at no cost. This program was designed for people with Alzheimer's or other dementias and their caregivers, but all are welcome. 

Levy Fitness Room

Get ready to embark on an exciting fitness journey in 2024 that is specifically designed for seniors aged 55 and above. Say farewell to a sedentary lifestyle and embrace the joy of exercise at the fitness center. We're not talking about just lifting weights; we're unlocking your inner fitness guru. Be a part of a treadmill dance party, where workouts become a rhythm-filled celebration. Picture yourself in vibrant workout gear, conquering the elliptical machine. This isn't your ordinary workout routine; it's a fitness extravaganza!

From enjoyable cardio activities to strength training and gentle stretching, it's a party for your muscles. Join in on the camaraderie with fellow fitness enthusiasts, exchanging high-fives and fist bumps. So, lace-up those sneakers, stay hydrated, and let's make 2024 the year where you surpass your fitness goals in a welcoming and invigorating environment.

Tech Tuesdays at Levy

Do you struggle with how to use aspects of your phone or laptop? The  Levy Senior Center has the support you need. Call the front desk at 847-448-8250 to schedule a free appointment.

Levy Café

The Levy Senior Center serves hot meals Monday through Friday and 5-pack frozen meals on Tuesdays. Apply online to join the Senior Congregate Meal Program. To learn more, call the Levy Senior Center front desk at 847-448-8250. March Lunch Menu.

Ride The Levy Bus

Booking Procedures:

• To arrange for bus service, you must call either the day before or by 8:30 a.m. on the morning of the requested day to be added to the pick-up list for that day.
• To request transportation, call the Levy Senior Center front desk at 847-448-8250 the day before or call 847-448-4311 on the morning of your intended trip.

Morning Bus Pickups (Monday through Friday):

• Pickups begin at 9:15 a.m.

Afternoon Return Routes (Monday-Friday):

• The first return route from the Levy Center departs at 12:30 p.m.
• The last bus of the day departs at 3:30 p.m., returning members home.

Grocery Shopping Trips:

• Starting at 11:30 a.m., we only provide grocery shopping trips on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
• On Tuesdays, the bus will make stops at Dollar Tree, Goodwill, and Vali. Drop-offs occur on Wednesdays at Sam's Club, Marshalls, Food for Less, Jewel, and Target. The bus will be available to pick you up at the end of your shopping trip.

Free of Charge for Levy Center Members:

• Importantly, all of these transportation services are completely free of charge for Levy Center members who are 55 and older.

If you need transportation assistance or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 847-448-8250. We are here to assist you.

Dive into Community Engagement: Attend Parks and Recreation Community Meetings

Dive into community engagement. Attend our Parks and Recreation Committees and Board Meetings to share your ideas and shape the future of our recreational activities. Mark your calendar, participate, and let's build a stronger community together.

Unleash Your Talents: Parks & Rec Invites You to Share Skills and Teach Classes

Ready to share your passion, skills, or expertise with the community? Our Parks & Recreation facilities call for the incredible talents within our diverse community.

Whether you're a budding artist, fitness guru, cooking maestro, or tech wizard – we want you to bring your unique talents to our vibrant community!

Join us in creating a tapestry of skills at our parks and recreation centers. Share your love for music, performing arts, visual arts, arts & crafts, fitness, wellness, culinary delights, or technology. 

Have a skill or class idea not listed? We welcome all creative proposals.

Let's turn our community spaces into lively hubs of learning and fun. Your passion could be the spark that ignites new hobbies and friendships.

Submit your program proposal today to bring your special talents and skills.

Accessibility for All

The City is committed to the principle that persons with disabilities enjoy full access to all public meetings as well as City buildings, programs, and services. Please call 847-866-2919 to make an ADA service request or fill out a request form online. 

Thanks for reading!

The Levy Senior Center Team