Levy e-News: Program Guide, Aging Well Expo, Shout Outs, and more!

Monday, February 10, 2025   |   View in browser

Good morning,

Spring is Here! Explore the 2025 Spring Program Guide

Find upcoming classes, events, and programs in our 2025 Spring Program Guide in advance of registration opening for Levy Members on February 10 and for Levy Non-members on February 17.

Fitness Classes Spring 25

SilverSneakers Classes Spring 25

Pickleball Workshops Spring 25

Dance Spring 2025

Art & Music Spring 2025

A huge shoutout to Levy Center staff member Mike Fistler from instructor Sandy Nowartia:

"Without Mike, things would be very challenging. He does so much for us every day, from room setups to handling tech issues and everything in between! I’m sure I speak for every instructor at Levy when I say, ‘THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO, MIKE. IT IS REMARKABLE AND MUCH APPRECIATED.’ 

Your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed, Mike—thank you for being such an essential part of the Levy Center team! 

Stepping Up with Judith Grubner: A Line Dancing Inspiration!

A special shoutout from Member Sue Janusz to Instructor Judith Grubner, an incredible line dance teacher! Judith motivates us to try new steps and dances, always bringing energy and enthusiasm to class. She is highly organized, sending out dances with videos in advance so we know what to expect. Her knowledge of dance and music is truly impressive, and she shares fascinating insights about both.

Judith's patience and willingness to go over steps again ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident. She creates an environment that makes us eager for class and excited to see our friends. Most importantly, she makes us love line dancing! Thank you, Judith, for being an amazing teacher and inspiring us every step of the way!

Love Levy Senior Center - Help Us Make It Better!

Love being a Levy member? Want to play a bigger role in shaping the programs and activities you enjoy? The Levy Senior Center is looking for diverse, engaged members to join our Advisory Board.

The Advisory Board meets once a month to provide valuable feedback and fresh ideas to enhance the Levy experience for all. We are seeking new board members for a two-year term, and we especially encourage those who actively participate in our programs to apply.

Your voice matters—help us build a stronger, more inclusive Levy community. Fill out the board application today!

Schedule Your AARP Tax-Aide Appointment

The Levy Senior Center, in partnership with the AARP Foundation, will be offering free income tax preparation to eligible senior patrons. To schedule an appointment, call the Levy Senior Center at 847-448-8250.

Aging Well Expo: call for vendors

Date: Friday, May 9
Location: Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave.
Time: 9 a.m. to Noon

Are you looking to promote your business and connect with the community? The Aging Well Expo is the perfect opportunity to showcase your products and services to an engaged audience of older adults, caregivers, and professionals who are passionate about healthy and fulfilling aging.

We are inviting vendors to join us at this exciting event!

Cost: $250 per table
Benefits: Network with potential clients, gain visibility, and be part of a meaningful event promoting wellness and resources for older adults.

Space is limited, so don’t wait to reserve your table. To secure your spot or for more information, contact us at aging@cityofevanston.org or fill out our form. 

Time to Renew Your Levy Membership!

Don’t miss out on all the great perks, activities, and community connections you love. It’s time to renew your Levy membership, which expired on December 31, 2024. We can’t wait to have you back!

Why Renew?
✔️ Keep the discounts coming for programs
✔️ Opportunity to members-only groups and clubs
✔️ Enjoy free pickleball and basketball open gyms
✔️ Access to the Fitness Room 

🌟 Calling All Members!

We love celebrating YOU and the incredible people who make our Senior Services Division shine! Do you have someone you'd like to highlight? Now’s your chance to give a public kudos, share a testimonial, or spread the love about an amazing instructor, staff member, or fellow member. Let’s keep the good vibes rolling.

Here’s how you can participate:

• Member spotlight: Is there someone in our community who inspires you? Let us know so we can feature them in our next newsletter!

• Kudos to staff:  Did a team member go above and beyond to make your experience extra special? Let us know what they did and when! Give them a shout-out!

• Instructor love: Are you loving your fitness, art, or wellness class? Tell us about your favorite instructor and how they’ve made a difference.

• Testimonials welcome: Share a heartwarming story or kind words about your experience with us. We love hearing how the Senior Services Division has impacted your life.

Send shoutouts to levycenter@cityofevanston.org or fill out our form.

New Levy Group: Tuesday Salon

Join this new weekly Levy group starting on February 11, called Tuesday Salon. The group will meet weekly on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to noon in the Library. This discussion group will cover a variety of topics including arts, literature, culture, environment, history, and more. Come check it out! You must be a Levy member to attend.

Northwestern Tech Event

Northwestern graduate students will be at the Levy Center on Wednesday, February 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the lobby to help provide solutions to seniors who are having issues with their technological devices.  

Intro to Mindfulness Meditation: Rest, Recharge & Connect

Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. Join Patti Vick for a free introductory session on mindfulness meditation, where you'll explore how to slow down, cultivate kindness, and develop a sustainable meditation practice.

Date: Wednesday, February 12
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Locust Room

Recharge your mind, body, and spirit—join us for this refreshing and restorative session.

Discover The Power of Mindfulness Art – Free Intro Session!

Join us for a free introductory session of Mindfulness Art on Thursday, February 13 at 9:30 a.m. in Craft Room B. This special session is designed to help you practice self-care through meditative art-making and reflective writing in a supportive, judgment-free space.

No prior art experience is necessary—just bring an open mind and a willingness to explore. Register in advance by calling the Levy Front Desk at 847-448-8250. 

February Science with Seniors

Each month, graduate students from Northwestern University visit the Levy Senior Center to discuss different science topics. This month, they will discuss the topic of 'Participatory Map-Making' on Thurs., Feb. 13, at 1 p.m. Registration is required by calling 847-448-8250.

Evanston's Living History Film Screening & Discussion

The LSCF presents Evanston’s Living History, on Monday, February 17 at 3 p.m. in Bobby's Room, a documentary by Evanstonian Craig Dudnick. The film tells the powerful story of Anthony Crawford’s family, who fled racial violence in South Carolina and found refuge in Evanston. Featuring interviews with prominent Evanston residents, it chronicles the African American community’s fight for justice and the courage that shaped their journey. 

The 57-minute film will be screened in Bobby’s Room with a Q&A to follow. The event is free, but registration is required. To register, visit lscfevanston.org and navigate to events or call 847-238-2659.

Levy Longevity: Anticancer Living with Dr. Roy

Don't miss Dr. Debjani Roy’s hybrid presention on anticancer living, Thursday, February 20 at 1 pm. Dr. Roy will discuss modifiable risk factors and the 6 pillars of anticancer living, which include diet, sleep, stress management, physical activity, environmental toxins, and supplements. This Levy Senior Center Foundation hybrid program will be held in person at the Levy Senior Center in Bobby’s Room, and online via Zoom. It’s free, but advance registration is required. Be sure to submit your questions on the topic in the form when you register. Visit lscfevanston.org or call
847- 238-2659. 

It's Never Too Late to Chase Your Dreams! 

Join us at the Levy Senior Center on February 25 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., for an inspiring session with Richard Fuhr, a 65-year-old national medalist in speed skating.

Richard’s journey—from dabbling in speed skating at 43 to winning national silver medals at 64—proves that it’s never too late to embrace new challenges. This interactive event will explore body positioning, balance techniques, and resilience-building strategies to help you stay active and engaged at any age.

Scam Preventation Workshop

Come out on Thursday, February 27 at 3 p.m. and learn about scams and frauds with the Illinois Attorney General's Office along with Senior Connections. They will discuss common phone and internet scams.  You can call Levy Senior Center to register 847-448-8250 or call Senior Connections directly at 847-869-0682.

Emotional Fitness with a Master Fitness Trainer

Discover how movement and emotion are deeply connected in this virtual presentation Tuesday, March 4 at 1:30 pm with Shaun Zetlin, author of Emotional Fitness. Shaun will introduce his new approach, featuring powerful tools for your fitness journey. He’ll also demonstrate gentle, equipment-free exercises designed to help you harness emotional strength through movement. Plus, learn essential techniques for sitting, standing, walking, and fall prevention.

This Levy Senior Center Foundation program will be held online via Zoom. It’s free, but advance registration is required. Be sure to submit your questions on the topic in the form when you register. Visit lscfevanston.org or call 847-238-2659.

Fullpower Safety & Self-Defense Workshop at the Levy Senior Center

Equip yourself with essential skills to remain safe in public spaces! The Fullpower Workshops, available to adults, teach practical techniques for addressing harassment, assault, and other dangers. Each workshop includes a chance to practice physical skills with a padded instructor, boosting your confidence and readiness.

Workshop Details:

• Date: Sunday, March 9, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (Code: 513330A5)
• Fee: $35 per session

For more information, email kidpowerchicago@comcast.net. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable safety skills! Learn more at kidpower.org.

Free Dance Performance: Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre

Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre is coming back to provide a Dance Performance on Mon., March 10 at 12:30 p.m. in the gymnasium. Come out for this free performance.

Unfold/Untold is a dance performance that unfolds the journeys of perseverance, resilience, and collective strength. Through captivating movement, the dancers bring to life the untold stories of marginalized communities, amplifying voices that have long been overlooked. 

Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre will be presenting repertoire as a part of their 24/25 season with choreography by: Wilfredo Rivera (Artistic Director), Stephanie Martinez, Shannon Alvis, Michelle Manzanales, and Noelle Kayser.

Levy Lecture: Protecting Your Identity

In this hybrid workshop, which takes place on Tuesday, March 11 at 4 p.m., Byline Bank's Vice President and Financial Literacy Manager, Judette Kurtsz will look at some of the ways fraudsters gain access to your personal information and tips on how to spot these scams. 

Join us in person at the Levy Senior Center in Bobby's Room, and online via Zoom. It's free, but advance registration is required or call 847-238-2659 for assistance.

Mark Your Calendar - Jamming Jean Concert

Dance away the doldrums with a free LSCF Jamming Jean concert on Friday, March 21 at 5 p.m. in the Maple Room featuring the Midwest’s hottest horn band! Known for their high-energy performances and soulful sound, they pay tribute to the legends of rock and soul. Get ready to dance to the biggest hits of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. 

Make it a full night out with delicious barbecue from Hecky’s plus beer, wine and soft drinks available for cash purchase. 

Get active with Cardio Drumming!

Join us at the Levy Senior Center for a high-energy Cardio Drumming class on Thurs., March 27, at 2 p.m. This fun workout blends drumming with cardio exercises, improving coordination, boosting heart health, and reducing stress. Open to all fitness levels—no experience needed, and equipment is provided. 

Fee: $22 (Levy Members) / $30 (Non-Members)
Activity Code: 514364A5

Sign up in person, online, or by calling 847-448-8250 for more details.

Open Gym & Drop In Pickleball Calendar

View the most up-to-date information regarding Levy members-only open gym for pickleball and basketball as well as drop-in pickleball. Check out the calendar.

SilverSneakers: Enjoy the Benefits!

The Levy Senior Center is excited to partner with SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Silver & Fit! If you are a member of one of these programs, you may qualify to attend SilverSneakers classes and access our fitness room at no cost. Please check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for these fantastic benefits and start enjoying a healthier lifestyle today! More Information.

Levy Café

The Levy Senior Center serves hot meals Monday through Friday. Apply online to join the Senior Congregate Meal Program. To learn more, call the Levy Senior Center front desk at 847-448-8250. View the February 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.

Share Your Talents With The Community!

Are you ready to inspire and make an impact? Our Parks and Recreation facilities are seeking talented individuals like you to enrich our vibrant and diverse community.

Whether you’re an artist, fitness enthusiast, culinary expert, or tech whiz, we invite you to share your unique skills and passions. Help us create dynamic spaces filled with music, performing arts, visual arts, crafts, wellness programs, cooking classes, technology workshops, and more!

If you have a fresh idea or a unique talent not listed, we welcome all creative proposals. Join us in transforming our community spaces into exciting hubs of learning, creativity, and connection. Your expertise could spark new hobbies, friendships, and a stronger sense of community.

Submit your program proposal today.

Attend Parks and Recreation 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.

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 Senior Services Division Team