Enjoy an evening of glamour and intrigue at Murder Mystery Dinner Theater
Step into 1930s Hollywood for a night of mystery, glamour and great food. Join us for Best Laid Plans, a murder mystery by The Murder Mystery Company. Uncover clues, mingle with suspects and enjoy a delicious dinner catered by Cranelli’s.
You are encouraged, but not required, to dress to impress in vintage attire. Everyone is a suspect and it’s up to you to solve the case!
Date: Saturday, Aug. 16
Fee: Member: $43, Nonmember: $50
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Be inspired by sisters of courage
Kittie and Annie Harbison were sisters who led extraordinary lives. At this inspiring presentation about Colorado history, hear their story of grit and determination as they established a successful homestead and dairy farm at what is now the west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Learn how these women crossed Berthoud Pass and persevered through many challenges of life in the Rockies.
Date: Thursday, Aug. 21
Fee: Member: $7, Nonmember: $8
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
New Tai Chi progam starting in September
Build on your Tai Chi foundation as you refine each form, deepen relaxation and heighten awareness of your chi (internal energy). This gentle intermediate-level practice supports balance, joint health, and inner vitality, while offering the calming benefits of meditation.
The class will be be offered at 12:30 p.m. Mondays and 10 a.m. Thursdays starting Sept. 4. Registration is now open at highlandsranch.org/ myactivecenter.
Per class fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5. Discounts available from SilverSneakers, Renew Active and Silver & Fit.
STAY INFORMED
Building efficiency measures
Please help us realize the cost savings that our energy efficient building was designed for. When you are the last person to leave a room, please turn off the lights. Do not prop open doors to the outside and keep the doors closed when a program is in session. Some room temperatures have been specifically adjusted for program needs or at the request of user groups. Leaving the doors open does not allow this special temperature setting to be maintained.
Room temperature issues
We apologize that it has taken so long to get the bugs worked out of the HVAC system. Hopefully, going forward the rooms will always be at the correct temperature. We appreciate your patience as the manufacturer and installer have worked on the these issues, especially in the Fitness Room.
Message boards
There are two bulletin boards in the center. The board in the Game Room has information from the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center, including bylaws, meeting minutes and financial reports. Members can post information here as well. The board in the Activity Room is for community messaging.
Alzheimer’s walk
More than 40 people participated in our first Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Redstone Park, including staff and residents from Brookdale Highlands Ranch. Brookdale also provided refreshments. Paticipants raised $2,490 for Alzheimer’s research and local community services.
Ballroom Dance Club
Are you a ballroom dancer, looking for a place to dance? Welcome to Ballroom Dance Club, where rhythm and fun come together. We dance in a variety of classic ballroom styles, each with its own unique flair: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Bolero, Night Club 2 step, Mambo, Rumba, Samba and Swing. Whether you’re dancing for fitness, socializing, or preparing for a performance, you’ll find the perfect group to practice your skills. For now, no dance instruction is provided. The club meets at 1 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month.
NEWSLETTER & GUIDE AUGUST 2025
Staff
Jill Hall, Senior Services Manager
Lyndsey George, Guest Services and Volunteer Coordinator
Katie Ireland, Fitness and Enrichment Coordinator
Jodie McCann, Health and Resource Coordinator
Cindy Galligan, Front Desk Receptionist & Membership
Ron Bowman & Rob Hill, Facility Services Technicians Hours
We welcome your suggestions, compliments and complaints. The suggestion box is located at the front desk.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Registration is required for all events, programs and activities — including free programs. Registered participants have priority over drop-ins. The refund policy can be found at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.
• Registration can be done at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter or the front desk.
• Evening and weekend classes are shown with a shaded box.
• Early registration is encouraged so programs are not canceled due to low attendance.
• For the most up-to-date information about programs and events, please visit MyActiveCenter. Canceled classes will be removed from MyActiveCenter.
Please note, for programs listed as “No fee”, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to the center.
Abstract Watercolor Class
MONDAYS, AUG. 4, 11 & 18
Explore color and texture in a relaxed, creative setting. Abstract watercolor is a painting style that emphasizes shapes, patterns and color over realistic images. No experience needed.
Fee: Member: $27, Nonmember: $32
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, AUG. 4
Join senior center staff as they share information about the amenities, opportunities and programs available at the senior center.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Tune-up Day
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 6
Take advantage of free mobility equipment assessments, adjustments, parts replacements and tuneups by Mobility City in Littleton. Accepted equipment includes walkers, rollators, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. No registration needed. First come, first served.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Strings & Things Music Club
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 6
This social group is for individuals who enjoy playing or singing and sharing it with others. Participants are encouraged to bring their own acoustic instruments.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
Bingo
THURSDAY, AUG. 7 & TUESDAY, AUG. 19
Spend the afternoon with us playing bingo. Enjoy great company, friendly competition and the chance to win fantastic prizes. Daubers can be purchased at the door for $1.50. Doors open at 12:30 p.m.
Fee: No fee
Time: 12:45-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Vaccinations 101
THURSDAY, AUG. 7
Vaccinations are still recommended through adulthood. During respiratory season, there are additional recommended vaccinations for adults and children. Come to this presentation to learn about vaccine schedules and benefits and how to stay safe during winter months.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY AUG. 11
This four-hour classroom refresher is designed to meet the needs of older drivers. It covers age-related physical changes, declining perceptual skills, rules of the road, new laws, local driving problems and license renewal requirements.
Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25
Please register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Trivia
MONDAY, AUG. 11
Test your knowledge with an afternoon of trivia, fun and friendly competition with prizes after each game.
Fee: Member: $2, Nonmember: $3
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, AUG. 12 & WEDNESDAY, AUG. 27
Create greeting cards or work on your paper projects. Supplies, ideas and help will be provided.
Fee: Member: $2, Nonmember: $3
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
Hello Fall Sign Making Class
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13
Create your own 14-inch round door hanger, just in time for fall decorating. In this hands-on class, you’ll paint the piece in three colors, add a “Hello Fall” greeting and finish it off with greenery and a bow made of burlap and pumpkin-patterned ribbon. Perfect for all skill levels, and all materials are included.
Fee: Member: $25, Nonmember: $29
Time: 10 a.m.-Noon
Location: Activity Room
Blood Pressure Checks
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13
Stop in and have your blood pressure checked by UC Health Highlands Ranch Hospital nursing professionals. First come, first served.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.-Noon
Location: North Lobby
Gardening Help Desk
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13
Stop by the gardening help desk and have your gardening questions answered by master gardeners from CSU Extension Douglas County.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11 a.m.-3 p..m.
Location: South Lobby
Veteran Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, AUG. 14
Drop by this informal morning coffee chat and make new friends with other veterans. Breakfast treats courtesy of Senior Helpers Littleton.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: South Lobby
Stepping On: Fall Risk Prevention Series
THURSDAYS, AUG. 14-SEPT. 25
Balance is key to preventing a fall. Balance can decline as we get older. The good news is that it is never too late to gain it back. Join us for this seven-week evidence-based series and learn much more than balance exercises. Professionals from a UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital will inspire you to become stronger and more confident.
Fee: Member: No fee. Nonmember: Day pass required.
Time: 9-11 a.m.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Emerald Ash Borer
THURSDAY, AUG. 14
Do you have ash trees? Learn how to protect your trees from the emerald ash borer, an invasive pest that is new to the Highlands Ranch area.
Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Activity Room
Estate Planning 101
FRIDAY, AUG. 15
Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
SATURDAY, AUG. 16
Step into 1930s Hollywood for an interactive evening of mystery, glamour and great food. Enjoy a dinner catered by Cranelli’s while uncovering clues and mingling with suspects in Best Laid Plans, a murder mystery by The Murder Mystery Company. You are encouraged, but not required, to dress to impress in vintage attire. Everyone is a suspect and it’s up to you to solve the case!
Fee: Member: $43, Nonmember: $50
Time: 5-8 p.m.
This presentation will focus on the basics of estate planning and the essential documents that every adult needs to have. Attorneys Kendra Strong-Tehrani and Ryleigh Rudolph will lead discussions about the differences between wills and trusts and the importance of having incapacity documents.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Planning For Your Future Care Needs
SATURDAY, AUG. 16
Understand what your long term care needs may be and consider where and how you wish to receive care. You’ll also learn the benefits of developing financial and legal strategies to help you achieve the greatest success and satisfaction. Registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 8.
Fee: No fee
Time: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Location: Multipurpose Room
Music & the Movies
MONDAY, AUG. 18
Enjoy a one-hour presentation blending visual art and live music in the theme of Movie Art & Music. Art presenter Wendy Adler will showcase works that hint at popular films, inviting viewers to make the connection. Violinist Zachary Montasser will follow each piece with a live performance of a well-known movie soundtrack excerpt, creating a rich, multisensory experience.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, AUG. 19
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help you in your caregiving role for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. We ask that you attend without your loved one, so that you are free to share more comfortably.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Rocky Mountain National Park Trip
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
Join us on our hiking adventure as we travel by motor coach to Rocky Mountain National Park where we will spend the day exploring trails to lakes in the Bear Lake area. Bring your own lunch and enjoy a picnic along the trail. Fee includes transportation, park entrance and trip leader.
Fee: Member: $64, Nonmember: $73
Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot at 8 a.m. sharp.
Hearing Clinic
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
During your one-on-one visit with Dr. Dusty Jessen and Dr. Joe Kraus, you will be provided a video otoscopy (ear canal check), inspection, cleaning and replacement of parts on current hearing aids as well as a basic hearing screening if you do not have hearing aids and have never had a hearing tested before. The doctors will also answer your questions about hearing loss, current hearing aids or recommendations for hearing loss treatment.
Fee: No fee. Registration required and visits are by appointment only.
Time: Noon-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Important Reminders
Happy Hour Social
THURSDAY, AUG. 21
Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation and connection. Enjoy light snacks, get to know fellow members and have fun with simple table games designed to spark conversation. Bring your own refreshments (BYOB) and make yourself at home in a welcoming setting.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
K-9 Training Demonstration
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 27
The Douglas County K-9 program partners specially trained police dogs with handlers to assist in tasks such as narcotics detection, explosive detection and suspect apprehension. During public demonstrations, K-9 teams showcase their skills through obedience drills, simulated suspect apprehensions and detection exercises, highlighting the dogs’ discipline, agility and critical role in community safety.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
The senior center and staff offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1 for Labor Day. Out of Office: Jill Hall, senior services manager, will be on vacation from Thursday, Aug. 28 through Saturday, Sept. 13. Katie Ireland will be assuming Jill’s responsibilities during this time, with assistance from Jodie McCann and Lyndsey George. Please contact Katie at 720-468-4823 or kireland@highlandsranch.org if you need assistance.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
Register and view full class descriptions at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.
Registration: All fitness classes and games, except Ageless Grace and EnhanceFitness, require singleclass registration. Registration opens two months in advance, on the first of each month at 8:30 a.m. For fitness questions, contact Katie Ireland at kireland@ highlandsranch.org. For games, contact Lyndsey George at lgeorge@highlandsranch.org
Medicare fitness benefits: Members who have Renew Active (One Pass), SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit and Active & Fit are eligible for a discount on fitness classes. Contact staff for details. Remember you must show up to fitness classes for the senior center center to be reimbursed by your insurance.
8-10
Meet in front of the main entrance at 8 a.m.
Suitable for all levels, including those with limited mobility.
Learn the essential principles of
skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
BE INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center board meetings
The Friends August board meetings are scheduled for Aug. 4 and 18 from 9 - 11 a.m. Join us to learn about the various events we are working on and to ask questions or provide input on Friends activities. We welcome all members to attend.
Recipe book
The Friends are looking to create a keepsake Senior Center Recipe Book in this inaugural year of the center’s opening. The Friends would like to collect enough recipes to publish a book this fall, just in time for holiday sales. Visit friendsofhrsc.org for an online form that can be submitted directly or call 720-468-4825 with questions.
Online store
Spring and summer apparel is available at friendsofhrsc.org and includes lighter clothing options for the warm season. Short-sleeved T-shirts are also available by calling 720-468-4825. Women’s shirts run very small, so the Friends can meet you at the center with samples so you can determine the best size for you.
Fall Craft Fair
The Friends will be holding its first annual Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, Nov. 1. Vendor applications are open, so please spread the word! Applications & booth information are available on the Friends website. Contact 720-468-4825 or friendshrseniorcenter@ gmail.com if you have questions.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
Friends Grill ‘n Chill
Date: Friday, Aug. 22
Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Join in on the fun as the Friends grill burgers and hot dogs at the final cookout of the summer. Menu items include cheeseburgers ($5.50), hamburgers ($5) and hot dogs ($3.50). All meals include a sandwich, chips, cookie and choice of water, iced tea or lemonade. Register in MyActiveCenter so the Friends know quantities needed. Payment will be accepted at the door.
King Soopers fundraiser
The Friends has partnered with King Soopers through the Community Rewards Program. Simply go to your account at kingsoopers.com, select Community Rewards and then search for the Friends under “Find an Organization.” Select “Enroll” and you are all set. A percentage of every transaction will be donated to the Friends. More information can be found on the Friends’ website at friendsofthehrsc.org.
August Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, Aug.13
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fee: $15 per person
Enjoy visiting with new and old friends as you listen to great music by country singer Peggy Malone. This festive luncheon is sponsored by Cherry Hills Assisted Living, assistedlivingcherryhills.com. The menu includes Chicken Cordon Bleu, rice pilaf, strawberry & feta salad (GF/ V) and dessert. Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk. Payment must be received by Friday, Aug. 8. Cash or check payable to “Friends of the HRSC”. Nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass at the front desk on the day of the luncheon.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Complete a BetterAge survey
The senior center is part of a national project to assess the overall health and wellbeing of older adults.
When members complete the BetterAge survey, staff will get an overall view of how individuals are doing in terms of life satisfaction, physical and mental health, social isolation, meaning and purpose and financial stability. This will help staff plan programs, allocate resources and offer resources to services. In return, individuals who complete the survey will get personalized recommendations to improve their own health and well-being.
Please fill out a paper survey available in the lobby, visit tinyurl.highlandsranchsc or use the QR code.
Find community resources at September expo
SATURDAY, SEPT. 27, 9 A.M. - NOON
Stop by the first weekend Older Adult Health & Resource Expo. Each expo offers different vendors from the previous event, with new information about products and services including legal, financial, Medicare, moving services, public safety, transportation services, housing options, hearing care. Simple health screenings will also be offered. The event is free, and no registration is required.
Take advantage of GetSetUp
We have partnered with award-winning GetSetUp to provide hundreds of free, live and on-demand online classes to keep you mentally, physically and socially active when you can’t be at the senior center. Classes are interactive, easy to join, offered day and night and free for center members.
Scan the QR code or visit the website at getsetup.io/partner/HL to see the classes you can take, including:
• Love or lie? Steering clear of online romance scams
• Art Journalling: Reflect, Remember and Honor
• Irresistible Air Fryer Recipes
• Yoga for Arthritis and Inflammation
Aging Resources connects seniors to services
Aging Resources of Douglas County is a non-profit community aging center. They connect people to services, information and resources that promote aging well and with independence. Services include transportation, help at home, chore/yard services, loan closet and companionship. For more information, call 303-814-4300 or visit agingresourcesdougco.org.
DAY AND EXTENDED TRIPS
Fairmount Cemetery Tour Trip
SATURDAY, SEPT. 13
Join us as we travel by motorcoach to Denver’s Fairmount Cemetery for the Sacred 36 Tour. Actors will portray people who once called Denver home and now rest at Fairmount Cemetery. During this walk through the cemetery, you’ll meet some of the the people who made Denver famous, including Louisa Sneed Hill, May Bonfils Stanton, Polly Pry, Henry Brown, William and Elizabeth Byers, Gertrude Cuthbert and many others. This trip involves walking on flat surfaces for two hours, so wear good walking shoes. Trip will be held rain or shine. Fee includes transportation on deluxe motorcoach and trip leader.
Fee: Member: $80, Nonmember: $92
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Exploring Britain and Ireland Trip
MONDAY, MAY 11 - MONDAY, MAY 25, 2026
Travel with the Highlands Ranch Senior Center to beautiful Great Britain and Ireland. The itinerary includes stops in Edinburgh (Scotland), York and London (England), Cardiff (Wales) and Waterford, Killarney and Dublin (Ireland).
Only 29 spots are available! Cost per person is $6,824 double and $8,624 single and includes round trip airfare from Denver International Airport, air taxes and fees/ surcharges, hotel transfers, bus to/from the senior center to the airport and trip leader. Not included is trip cancellation waiver and insurance of $549/person.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1353006.
Phantom of the Opera Trip
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2026
Join us for a matinee performance of Phantom of the Opera at the Buell Theater in Denver. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes “The Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again,” “Masquerade” and the iconic title song. It tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius known only as “the Phantom,” who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House. Mesmerized by the talents and beauty of a young soprano, Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her. Unaware of Christine’s love for Raoul, the Phantom’s obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealousy, madness and passions collide. Trip includes transportation by deluxe motor coach, seats and trip leader.
