Eden Prairie Senior Center News - Winter 2024 by City of Eden Prairie

EDEN PRAIRIE

Senior Center News

Winter 2024

Notes from Sue and Josh They say laughter is the best medicine! Let’s see if that’s true! (Laugh out loud – it’s ok, we did!)

2022–2023 Senior Advisory Council members: (Front row) Don Jacobson, Gayl Smith, Jim Cragg. (Back row) Ken Berg, Beth Lapp, Marlene Fischer, Brian Larson, Arlene Cohen, Sylvia Peterson.

1. What do you get when you cross a four-leaf clover with poison ivy?

Vote for 2024-2025 Senior Advisory Council

2. What is the chemical formula for water? (Answers on pg. 4)

Help decide who serves on our Senior Advisory Council for the next two-year term. Every vote counts! This group contributes greatly to the success of our Senior Center. A ballot is included at the end of this newsletter. You can also pick one up at the Senior Center.

Annual Contributions Welcome Each year, we ask Senior Center participants to make a donation to the center. These donations allow us to operate without membership dues. Drop off or mail your donation to the Senior Center at 8950 Eden Prairie Road. Any amount is greatly appreciated!

May 8, 10 a.m.–noon Shred Truck Senior Center June 26, 2–3:30 p.m. Garden Party Senior Center

Check out the “wall of happiness” in the Community Room all January. Add to it if you’d like!

Stay in Touch! Sue Bohnsack SBohnsack@edenprairie.org 952-279-8051 Josh Rockey JRockey@edenprairie.org 952-279-8058

Senior Center Closed Jan. 1 Jan. 15

New Year’s Day Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Feb. 19

Presidents Day

SPECIAL EVENTS Themed Bingo Bring your luck to the Senior Center! You could win gift cards or other prizes during these fun, themed bingo events! Registration deadline is one week before event date. Cost is $5 per session.

Senior Center Annual Meeting

Valentine's Day Breakfast Join your friends for a delicious catered breakfast of egg bake and delicious sides at this fun, annual breakfast meeting. Hear about the Senior Center's activities in 2023. A portion of this event is sponsored by Prairie Bluffs Senior Living and Comfort Keepers.

Monday, Jan. 29 | 1:30–3 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 14 9–10:30 a.m. Senior Center

Registration code 178208 Registration deadline Jan. 22 Wear white! A portion of this event is sponsored by Community Center Fitness and Spark.

BIG

Cost $13 Registration code 178202 Registration deadline Feb. 7

Bing with

Ted

Friday, Feb. 23 | 1:30–3 p.m. Registration code 178209 Registration deadline Feb. 16 Wear BIG and BOLD! A portion of this event is sponsored by Edina Realty Senior Services.

Bring a beverage to enjoy while challenging your mind with some trivia questions, videos and brain teasers. This fun event is filled with various levels of difficulty, trivia categories and facts.

Wednesday, Feb. 21 3:30–4:30 p.m.

Monday, March 11 | 1:30–3 p.m. Registration code 178210 Registration deadline March 4

Cost: Free Registration code 179213 Registration deadline Feb. 20

Wear anything and everything GREEN! A portion of this event sponsored by Choice Connections.

LIFELONG LEARNING Indoor Golf League at Inside Edge

Seniors Get Social

Join other golf enthusiasts for league play on stateof-the-art golf simulators at Inside Edge Golf. Take a swing at some of the most historic and beautiful golf courses in the world. The first week of this league includes practice on the equipment. Golfers play at least nine holes each week. All skill levels welcome. Registration deadline Jan. 12.

Learn more about your cell phone, texting, voicemail, email, photos, video calls and more! This program is in partnership with Eden Prairie High School students. Home visits are also available through Senior Community Services. Laptop available for check out. Meets on the first and third Wednesday every month. Register for a 30-minute time slot with the code below. Day

Date

Time

Cost

Code

W W W

Jan. 3, 17 Feb. 7, 21 March 6, 20

4–5 p.m. 4–5 p.m. 4–5 p.m.

Free Free Free

179281 179281 179281

Day Date M Jan. 22–Feb. 26

Time Cost 9:30–11 a.m. $80

Code 173201

Monday Funday Wine Club Gather with other wine lovers to taste and learn about wines. This monthly club is educational and oh so fun! Registration deadline one week before each event. Limited to 27 people so register early! Day M M M

Date Jan. 22 Feb. 26 March 25

Time 4–5:30 p.m. 4–5:30 p.m. 4–5:30 p.m.

Cost $5 $5 $5

Code 171105 171105 171105

Driver Safety 8-Hour Course Designed to refine existing skills and develop safe, defensive driving techniques. If you're 55 years or older, completion of this course qualifies you for a 10% discount on your automobile insurance premium. Registration deadline one week before class begins. Day M, Th Th, F

Date Time Cost Jan. 22, 25 5:30–9:30 p.m. $28 March 14, 15 5:30–9:30 p.m. $28

Code 179201 179201

Landmark Tour Showcase Learn about unforgettable travel opportunities in the U.S. and abroad. Ask questions about trips and increase your comfort with no-stress travel. Landmark, a local, family-owned tour operator, has inclusive packages featuring round-trip airfare, quality accommodations, enjoyable meal experiences, admission to all itinerary attractions, deluxe motor coach transportation and the services of a professional tour manager. Registration deadline Jan. 22.

Driver Safety 4-Hour Refresher If you've taken the state-approved 8-hour course, you can renew with this 4-hour course. Registration deadline one week before class begins. Day Date W Jan. 17 F Feb. 16 Th March 7 F April 26

Time 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Noon–4 p.m. 5:30–9:30 p.m. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Cost $24 $24 $24 $24

Code 179202 179202 179202 179202

Day W

Date Jan. 24

Time 10–11:15 a.m.

Cost Free

Code 171341

LIFELONG LEARNING Low Vision Information Group

Arthritis Awareness

Low Vision is defined as eyesight without 20/20 vision. Gather with others who are experiencing the same vision loss as you. Knowing what resources are available for you, your friends and other loved ones is key to getting the help you need. Led by Vision Loss Resources, this group meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Registration deadline two days before each session.

Learn about common hip and knee arthritic symptoms you may experience. Dr. Baer from Summit Orthopedics explains the arthritis biology and many non-operative treatment options. Learn about joint replacement surgery – what to expect and how it can be a reliable long-term solution. Registration deadline Feb. 9.

Day W W W

Date Jan. 24 Feb. 28 March 27

Time 1–2:30 p.m. 1–2:30 p.m. 1–2:30 p.m.

Cost Free Free Free

Day M

Code 171219 171219 171219

Time 10–11:15 a.m.

Cost Free

Code 178203

Answer #1: A rash of good luck! Answer #2: HIJKLMNO. What is that? Yesterday you said it was H to O!

Organizing, downsizing, decluttering and moving can be overwhelming! Learn where to start and how to tackle the job in small, incremental and achievable steps. Registration deadline Jan. 29. Date Jan. 31

Time 1:30–3 p.m.

Laughter is the best medicine

Downsize and Declutter

Day W

Date Feb. 12

How to register Online edenprairie.org/Register

Code 178203

In Person Senior Center 8950 Eden Prairie Road 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., M–F

Coffee with the Cops Meet Police Chief Matt Sackett and have coffee with a few Eden Prairie police officers. Bring your police-related questions and concerns for discussion. This is a great opportunity to learn more about your police department or police topics in general. Registration deadline Feb. 2. Day Date T Feb. 6

Time 10–11:30 a.m.

Cost Free

Community Center 16700 Valley View Road 5:30 a.m.–10 p.m., daily Questions? Call the Senior Center at 952-279-8050.

Code 179203

Cancellation and refund policies A full refund for a program is given if you cancel before the registration deadline. No refunds are issued after the start of a program without approval.

Sweet as Honey Bee Class Scott Nelson provides a glimpse into what goes into operating a honeybee apiary. Learn about his 24/7 operation and see the sweet reward: honey! Registration deadline Feb. 7. Day Date F Feb. 9

Time 10–11:15 a.m.

Cost Free

Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation reserves the right to cancel, postpone or combine programs, and change instructors. For information on cancellations and refunds, visit edenprairie.org/Register.

Code 171102

LIFELONG LEARNING

FITNESS

Bridge: Book 3 "Defense" Learn how to defeat your opponent using information gathered during bidding and legal signals with your partner. Prerequisite: completion of Books 1 and 2 or a thorough knowledge of basic bridge. Book 3 is available from the instructor for $24 at the first class. Registration deadline Feb. 23. Day Date F March 1–April 19

Time 9–11:30 a.m.

Cost $70

Senior Center Fitness Classes Get active with fitness classes designed specifically for older adults.

Code 171209

SilverSneakers® Classic

Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30–9:15 a.m. Tai Chi Tuesdays, 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Shuffle Deal and Play Bridge Play randomly dealt hands with an opportunity to ask questions, seek guidance or clarify a response with ACBL certified instructor, Silver Life Master and Director Mignon Nearmyer. Each class begins with a Q & A session. Prerequisite: knowledge of the basics of the game or completion of Book One: "Bidding" by Audrey Grant. Registration deadline Feb. 23. Day Date Time Cost F March 1–April 19 Noon–2:30 p.m. $70

Tai Chi is a mind-body experience that promotes balance, posture and stress relief. SilverSneakers® Yoga Thursdays, 9:30–10:15 a.m.

Code 171205

Location: Senior Center Community Room Cost: FREE for Community Center members; nonmembers pay $7 at the door.

Art at the Senior Center Thursdays, 10 a.m.–noon

Walking Group

No experience necessary! Jan. 11

Basic Clay Hand-Building: Coffee or Tea Mug

Jan. 25

Basic Clay Hand-Building: Vase

Feb. 8

Print Your Own Valentine's Day Cards

Feb. 29

Fused Glass: Wall Pocket

March 7

Watercolor Basics

March 28

Learn to Weave

October–April Wednesdays, 4:30 p.m. (Free) Eden Prairie Center (meet outside Hallmark) 8251 Flying Cloud Drive

Additional Art Class Intro to Felting Felting has been around since the Neolithic period, used to keep people warm and dry before knitting was invented. Currently, it is largely the process of locking wool pieces together to form 2D imagery or 3D objects. Using special needles to connect various colors of wool roving together, participants learn how to build a gorgeous work of art.

$25–$30 for each class Registration code 166210 Visit edenprairie.org/ArtCenter or call 952-949-8304 for more information.

Day Date Time Cost F Feb. 23–March 15 10 a.m.–noon $100

Code 156248

Monday

Tuesday

WINTER 2024 CALENDAR Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES 8:45 a.m. Coffee Klatch 9 a.m. Great Courses 9:30 a.m. Discussion Group 1 p.m. Crafting

8:30 a.m. 9 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Noon Noon 1 p.m.

SS Classic Greeting Cards Tai Chi Party Bridge* Mahjongg* Cribbage*

9:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m. 1 p.m. 4:30 p.m.

Quilting Mexican Train 500 Cards* Poker* Walking Club

8:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 1 p.m.

These weekly events are drop-in activities – everyone is welcome!

SS Classic SS Yoga Mahjongg* Canasta Cribbage*

9:30 a.m. Men's Group Noon Partner Bridge* Noon Mahjongg

* Activity requires experience

For descriptions and details, visit edenprairie.org/SeniorCenter or pick up a flyer from the Senior Center

MONTHLY ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS

January 2024

Tuesday

Monday

2 p.m. Happiness Group 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social 9

Happy Feet by appointment 15

SENIOR CENTER CLOSED 22

Happy Feet (by appt.) 9:30 a.m. Golf League 4 p.m. Wine Club 5:30 p.m. Driver Safety Happy Feet (by appt.)

9:30 a.m. Golf League 1:30 p.m. Snowman Bingo

Sparkling Feet by appointment 26 11

17 18

9 a.m. Driver Safety 2 p.m. Happiness Group 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social

10 a.m. Landmark Tours 12:15 p.m. Lunch and Chat 1 p.m. Low Vision Group 10 a.m. Downsize and Declutter

10 a.m. Art Class 1 p.m. Investment Insights

10 a.m. Book Club 16 17

Friday 5

26 4

SENIOR CENTER CLOSED 8

Thursday

10 a.m. Book Club 1 p.m. Health Insurance Help 4:30 p.m. Caregiver Support

9:45 a.m. Riverside Trip 10 a.m. Art Class 5:30 p.m. Driver Safety

9:30 a.m. Red Hat Breakfast 19 20

Monday

Happy Feet by appointment

9:30 a.m. Golf League 1:30 p.m. Arthritis Class

SENIOR CENTER CLOSED

9:30 a.m. Golf League

Happy Feet (by appt.) 9:30 a.m. Golf League 4 p.m. Wine Club

2 p.m. Happiness Group 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social

10 a.m. Coffee with the Chief

9:30 a.m. Golf League

February 2024

Tuesday

10:30 a.m. Wings of the North Museum

8:30 a.m. History Theatre Trip 10 a.m. Art Class 1 p.m. Investment Insights

10 a.m. Book Club 1 p.m. Health Insurance Help 4:30 p.m. Caregiver Support

9:30 a.m. Red Hat Breakfast 10 a.m. Sweet Bee Class

Noon Driver Safety 23

10 a.m. Art Class 1:30 p.m. Big Bingo with Ted

10 a.m. Art Class

March 2024

Tuesday

12:15 p.m. Lunch and Chat 1 p.m. Low Vision Group

Friday

Sparkling Feet by appointment

2 p.m. Happiness Group 3:30 p.m. Trivia 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social

Monday

9 a.m. Valentines Breakfast 10 a.m. Book Club

Thursday

Friday 1

10 a.m. Art Class 4

Happy Feet by appointment 11

Happy Feet by appointment

2 p.m. Happiness Group 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social 12

Happy Feet by appointment

4 p.m. Wine Club

2 p.m. Happiness Group 4 p.m. Seniors Get Social

12:15 p.m. Lunch and Chat 1 p.m. Low Vision Group

Sparkling Feet by appointment 10 a.m. Art Class 5:30 p.m. Driver Safety

1 p.m. Investment Insights 5:30 p.m. Driver Safety

10 a.m. Book Club

9:30 a.m. Paramount Center Trip

1:30 p.m. March into Bingo

10 a.m. Book Club 1 p.m. Health Insurance Help 4:30 p.m. Caregiver Support

10 a.m. Art Class

9:30 a.m. Red Hat Breakfast 10 a.m. Art Class

10 a.m. Art Class 5:30 p.m. Driver Safety

9:30 a.m. Senior Housing Tour

TRIPS Wings of the North Air Museum

Trip Notes

Unlike other aviation museums that are restricted to one aviation group or era, Wings of the North Air Museum covers all aviation history but with a special emphasis on Minnesota’s contributions. Enjoy seeing a full-size replica of Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis that was once displayed in the MSP passenger terminal. Or the hot air balloon that accidently flew away during half-time at a Vikings game at the old Metropolitan Stadium – with an 11-year-old boy in the basket! You can even see Charles “Speed” Holman’s pilot license signed by Orville Wright. Many beautiful pieces of aviation artwork and artifacts from many aviation periods are displayed. There are usually three or four aircraft on site, such as classic military planes like a P-51 Mustang or Boeing Stearman, modern civilian planes or anything in between. We stop for lunch at Champps, where you order, pay and tip. Registration deadline Feb. 20.

If you're interested in a trip and it's past the registration deadline, call the Senior Center for availability. Indicate any special physical accommodations at time of registration. New destination ideas always welcome!

History Theatre: Handprints

Coach Bus

Arrive at Minnesota History Theatre in downtown St. Paul to see “Handprints,” a powerful and vibrant autobiographical story written and performed by one of the Twin Cities' most renowned theater artists, Greta Oglesby. Based on her book, “Mama ‘n ‘Nem, Handprints on My Life,” this production is a love letter to the ordinary, yet extraordinary people who shaped her life. Experience the gift of Greta’s story with unique storytelling including the gorgeous music that has inspired the person she is today. After the show, head to Key’s Café for lunch (included) of turkey, mashed potatoes, traditional sides and dessert. Registration deadline Jan. 7. Day Th

Date Feb. 8

Time Cost 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $102

Van

Day T

Date Feb. 27

Time Cost 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m $20

Code 172307

Paramount Center for the Arts: Sinatra – My Way

Coach Bus

Travel to Coyote Moon Grille Restaurant Club in St. Cloud for a lunch of popover, salad and dessert. Head to the Paramount, a turn-of-the-century, historic 700-seat theater. Before the show begins, visit the Visual Arts Center and Paramount Gallery. In “Sinatra – My Way,” singer and pianist Andrew Walesch encapsulates the sophistication of a cosmopolite and the self-effacing charm of a country boy. In his monthly sold-out shows with his 10-piece band, Walesch is a traditionalist and an iconoclast rolled into one. His vocal and piano chops, along with his keen sensibility to find and interpret a great lyric, have led to national appearances. Registration deadline Jan. 14.

Code 471348

Day T

Date March 12

Time 9:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m.

Cost $106

Code 171322

TRIPS Senior Housing Tour and Lunch

Van

Minneapolis Institute of Arts: Art in Bloom

Book your seat on this educational tour around Eden Prairie and see what a few senior housing buildings have to offer. The itinerary includes scheduled facility tours and viewing of several other locations along the route. Transportation, lunch and tours included. Registration deadline March 15. Day F

Date March 22

Time 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m

Cost $12

Fox 9 Studio: The Jason Show

Coach Bus

Travel to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts (MIA) and enjoy imaginative floral interpretations of selected works of art from MIA's permanent collection, created by more than 100 commercial florists and individual artists. Take a self-guided tour of the fragrant museum and browse floral-inspired merchandise in the gift store. Travel to Jax Café for a lunch (included) of baked chicken with mashed potatoes. Registration deadline March 18.

Code 173206

Day F

Van

Date April 26

Time 9:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m

Cost $75

Code 172312

Be part of the live studio audience for “The Jason Show,” a Fox 9 morning talk show. Bring your photo ID and expect a security screening. Dress for success in solid bright colors – you may appear on camera! After the show, we may be able to meet Jason and the staff. Lunch is at a local restaurant where you order, pay and tip on your own. Registration deadline March 20. Day W

Date April 3

Time 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m

Cost $12

Plymouth Playhouse: ‘Til Beth Do Us Part

Code 172316

Van

Daytrippers Theatre presents this side-splitting romp about marriage and careers as we meet the Haydens, a couple who both work and decide they need an assistant to help put the house in order. They hire a highly motivated, gregarious southerner named Beth. Throw in a couple of wisecracking best friends and a British Boss Lady and you discover the hazards of hiring an assistant can be hilarious. Enjoy a lunch of pulled pork and all the sides before the show. A vegetarian option of fettuccini alfredo is available. Registration deadline April 12.

Carlos Creek Winery

Day W

Day T

Date April 24

Time Cost 11:45 a.m.–3:45 p.m $63

Coach Bus

Enjoy a trip to one of Minnesota’s largest grape vineyards, Carlos Creek Winery. Stop at Pike & Pint in Alexandria (included) for a lunch of walleye sandwich or chicken. While at the winery, tour the vineyards and production area to learn how the second-generation family-owned winery produces uniquely delicious fine and signature wines. Be prepared to walk a mile or so on this tour. Following the tour, you can sample the ‘pick of the month’ offerings and purchase wine before boarding the bus. Registration deadline Apr. 12.

Code 171312

Date May 21

Time Cost 8:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m $97

Code 172314

EXTENDED TRIPS Pella and Amana Colonies

ONGOING ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

Coach Bus

Go Dutch for a few days! Join us for Pella’s annual celebration of Dutch heritage and more than 300,000 vibrantly blooming tulips. Then head to Amana Colonies for a little German! Visit scenic villages, enjoy authentic foods and beverages, and browse through quaint shops that line the streets. Cost includes deluxe motor coach transportation, lodging for two nights, attractions, most meals and gratuities. Day W–F

Dates May 1–3

A complete list of community resources is available at the Senior Center or online at edenprairie.org/SeniorResources.

Foot Care Registered nurses provide supportive and caring foot care. Pay at your appointment.

Cost $630 (double – two per room) $795 (single – one per room)

Happy Feet Mondays, by appointment Call 763-346-3390

Registration code 171342

Sparkling Feet First Thursday of the month, by appointment Call 952-204-9406 or visit sparklingfeetrn.com

Registration requires a per-person deposit of $125 by March 4. Final payment is due March 18.

Happiness Group First and third Wednesday of the month, 2 p.m. Socialize with others and meet new people as we navigate the path of adulthood to elderhood. Group discussions cover topics on choices, courage and curiosities.

Wednesday Book Club

Get Connected!

Second Wednesday of the month, 10–11:30 a.m.

Jan. 10 — “A World of Curiosities” by Louise Penny Feb. 14 — “The Diamond Eye” by Kate Quinn March 13 — “Firefly Lane” by Kristin Hannah

Receive by mail 952-279-8050

Thursday Book Club Third Thursdayof the month, 10–11:30 a.m.

View online edenprairie.org/SeniorCenter

Jan. 18 — “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson

Get email and text updates edenprairie.org/Subscribe

Feb. 15 —“Dear Edward” by Ann Napolitano March 21 — “Solito” by Javier Zamora

2024 Senior Advisory Council Candidate Information Ken Berg (Incumbent) participates in the Monday morning discussion group, Woodchucks, large events and other classes. Ken would like to remain on the council as he believes it is part of paying back the community. He has a vested interest in the continued success of the Senior Center and brings his ideas to the council to help make improvements regularly. Ursula Dickinson is passionate about enhancing the quality of life and well being for all. The Senior Center can counteract isolation by providing much needed activities. She hopes to contribute to enhance these experiences. Don Jacobson (incumbent) says that serving on the committee these past years has been very rewarding. He feels by being on the committee he can help the Senior Center grow. The Senior Center is a great place for seasoned people to meet and enjoy the many activities. Beth Lapp (incumbent) participates in the Monday morning Coffee Klatch, Quilting Group, Red Hats and other social groups. Beth believes that it is important to understand the needs and concerns of seniors. She will support program development and implementation of new ideas for seniors. The role of Advisory Council Member will give her the opportunity to make a difference to the Senior Center and its members. Mike Mirvis is an active participant at the Senior Center and finds that it’s a place where people can find interesting activity and opportunities to socialize. He has noticed council members helping out and would like to help in any way he can. Lois Saathoff would like to be a Senior Advisory Council member to learn more about the Senior Center and the community. This will be a great opportunity to get to know more people and more about the Senior Center.

Instructions Place your completed ballot in a sealed envelope. Drop the envelope off at the Senior Center reception desk or mail to: Senior Center 8950 Eden Prairie Road Eden Prairie, MN 55347 Ballots are also available at the Senior Center. All ballots are due by Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. One ballot per person.

Thanks for voting! Senior Center Advisory Council Official Ballot Check boxes for FOUR candidates Ken Berg Ursula Dickinson Don Jacobson Beth Lapp Mike Mirvis Lois Saathoff Write in your nomination:

City of Eden Prairie Senior Center 8950 Eden Prairie Road Eden Prairie, MN 55347

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID HOPKINS, MN PERMIT NO. 241

952-279-8050 TTY: 952-949-8399 The City of Eden Prairie does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs, activities and services.

OR CURRENT RESIDENT

Senior Center Annual Meeting

Wednesday, Feb. 14 9–10:30 a.m. Senior Center Cost $13 Registration code 178202 Registration deadline Feb. 7