303-791-2416 | highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter | seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org
Fall Craft Fair
Saturday, Nov. 1
10 a.m. - 4 p.m
60 vendors selling handmade items
• Free admission
• Open to all ages
• Ample parking
This is a perfect opportunity to buy some unique holiday gifts.
Veterans Day breakfast
TUESDAY, NOV. 11
Calling all military veterans. On this special day, let us recognize your service with a homemade hot breakfast of pancakes, sausages, bacon, fruit and more. Our guest speaker will be George Brauchler, a veteran and District Attorney for the 23rd Judicial District.
Fee: No fee
Time: 9-10:30 a.m.
Location: Mulitpurpose Room
Friendsgiving begins a tradition
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
Celebrate friendship and good cheer at our first Friendsgiving gathering! Share a delicious pasta dinner from Corner Bakery and enjoy good company, musical entertainment and a festive atmosphere designed to bring people together before the holiday season.
Fee: Member: $21, Nonmember: $24
Time: 4:30-7 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Please note: The senior center will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28.
STAY INFORMED
Have you seen our owls?
Two beautiful great horned owls perch regularly on the beam under the patio roof. They are often seen in the mornings. They have done a good job scaring away the ravens which used to roost there.
Community Hero Award runner-up: Sue Frommelt
Sue Frommelt, board president of the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center, was recognized last month at the Douglas County Community Foundation’s Hero Awards. The Community Hero Award honors an exceptional nonprofit organization, community leader, volunteer or corporation based in Douglas County. Sue was recognized for outstanding volunteer community service that is sustained, direct and impactful. Sue’s daughter Katie accompanied her to the awards ceremony.
The impact of fitness class no-shows
Each month, we average more than 600 no-shows in our fitness classes. Missing a class you signed up for has a direct impact on the senior center. For those who receive the Medicare insurance fitness discount (i.e., SilverSneakers, Renew Active), the reimbursement rate has already been taken off the class fee. If you don’t show up to class, we cannot receive this reimbursement from the insurance company. We also cannot register someone else in the class since you have taken a spot. In the end, each no-show results in lost revenue. If this issue persists, class fees may need to increase, which would impact everyone. If you can’t attend a class, please remember to call 303791-2416 or email kireland@highlandsranch.org and let us know in advance.
Solo and Social group - NEW
Looking to meet new people, build friendships and share experiences with others who are also single? Whether you’re interested in casual conversation, group outings or expanding your circle, this group offers a fun way to stay active and engaged. Monthly meetings will be held to plan activities for the month. The first meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 11 from 12:30 -1:30 p.m. in the Classroom.
NEWSLETTER & GUIDE
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 & Arnold Infante Facility Services Technicians
Hours
Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Connect with us
Facebook:
@HighlandsRanchSeniorCenter Website: highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter
Email: seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org Phone: 303-791-2416
Suggestion box
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.
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, NOV. 3
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
Abstract Watercolor Class
MONDAYS, NOV. 3, 10 & 17
Explore color and texture in a relaxed and creative setting. No experience needed.
Fee: Member: $27, Nonmember: $31
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Watercolor Painting - Level 1
TUESDAYS, NOV. 4, 11 & 18
Perfect for beginners, this class introduces the joy of watercolor painting and doodling. Learn foundational techniques and create designs for journaling, card making and more. Sessions feature hands-on practice, ending with a beautiful piece ready to frame. All materials are provided.
Fee: Member: $25, Nonmember: $29
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Practical Personal Safety Skills
TUESDAY, NOV. 4
Learn how to feel safe at home and out and about, no matter your age, gender or ability level. Simple self-defense techniques and safety strategies will be introduced to build awareness and confidence. Led by Krista Hanley and Kayla Berry of We Are Safer Together.
Fee: Member: $8, Nonmember: $9
Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Jewelry Art Studio
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5
Discover how to design an elegant stretch necklace with real gemstones, rhinestones and silver or gold-plated beads along with a pair of earrings. All supplies provided, just bring your creativity.
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $20
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Alzheimers & Other Dementias: 10 Signs
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5
November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Please join us to learn about early warning signs and tips to approach someone who is experiencing changes in his/her memory, the benefits of early detection, diagnosis and more.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Zendoodling
THURSDAYS, NOV. 6, 13 & 20
Discover the calming power of Zendoodling—a meditative art form where structured, repetitive patterns come to life. Perfect for stress relief, mindfulness and creative expression.
Fee: Member: $24, Nonmember: $32
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Cooking Class: Mexican-Themed Power Bowl
THURSDAY, NOV. 6
This Mexican-themed salsa chicken bowl demonstration will include tasty rice and bean recipes for instant pot cooking and provide you with three recipes. Veggie toppings will also be prepared for participants to assemble their own bowl for tasting. Nutrition benefits will be shared ahead of a Q & A session.
Fee: Member: $6, Nonmember: $7
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Kitchen
Bingo
THURSDAY, NOV. 6 & TUESDAY, NOV. 18
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 2
Bridge Lessons - Intermediate
FRIDAYS, NOV. 7, 14 & 21
Build on your bridge skills in this intermediate class. Learn enhanced bidding techniques and improve your strategy in a fun, interactive setting. This is a continuation of the six-week session that began Oct. 17.
Fee: Member: $23, Nonmember: $26
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Game Room
Watercolor Painting - Level 2
FRIDAYS, NOV. 7, 14 & 21
For those who have completed at least one month of Daelyn’s beginner classes, this next-level session builds on the basics of watercolor painting and doodling. Continue growing your skills by creating designs for journaling, card-making and more. Each class introduces new techniques and projects, culminating in a final, frame-worthy masterpiece. All materials are provided.
Fee: Member: $24, Nonmember: $28
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Introduction to Microsoft Windows 11
FRIDAY, NOV. 7, 14 & 21
This class is for current Windows 11 users, those considering an upgrade from earlier versions and anyone curious to learn about Windows. We’ll cover navigation, the desktop, taskbar, start menu, settings and built-in apps.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Vote for Friends Board of Directors
Voting for the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center 2026-2027 Board of Directors occurs the week of Monday, Nov. 10. Online and in-person voting opportunities will be available. Watch your email for more information.
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY NOV. 10
This four-hour classroom refresher is designed to meet the needs of older drivers. It covers agerelated physical changes, declining perceptual skills, rules of the road, new laws, local driving problems and license renewal requirements.
Jeopardy
TUESDAY, NOV. 11
Join us for a Jeopardy-style trivia game featuring a mix of fun and challenging questions. Play on a team and compete for small prizes. It’s a great way to test your knowledge and enjoy some friendly competition. Light refreshments will be served.
Fee: Member: $7, Nonmember: $8
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Veteran Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, NOV. 13
Drop by this informal morning coffee chat and make new friends with other veterans. Breakfast treats provided by Senior Helpers Littleton.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25 plus day fee. Please register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, NOV. 11
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
Travel Talks: India
TUESDAY, NOV. 11
Join us for a one-hour talk and slideshow presentation as we journey through the vibrant sights, sounds and experiences of India. From bustling cities to rural countryside, colorful Hindu rituals to ancient ruins, this Travel Talk offers a look at the highlights of a recent vacation to India.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Location: South Lobby
Legal Paperwork Explained
THURSDAY, NOV. 13
Join us for this informative and practical session on essential estate planning documents everyone should have, including wills, powers of attorney, health care directives and more.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Lamb Spring Archaeology Talk
THURSDAY, NOV. 13
Join us for an engaging lecture on the Lamb Spring Archaeological Preserve, one of Colorado’s most significant prehistoric sites. Learn about the remarkable discoveries of ancient mammoth and bison fossils, the history of human activity in the area and the ongoing efforts to preserve this unique piece of the past. Explore Colorado’s deep history and the stories buried beneath its soil.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Tri-M Concert
THURSDAY, NOV. 13
Attend a free concert of wonderful music performed by the talented Tri-M Music Honor Society. All are welcome to relax and enjoy live music in a warm community setting.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Holiday Wreath Making
MONDAY, NOV. 17
Learn the basics of making an evergreen wreath for winter décor. Learn which plants work, which don’t work and how to get the most of your yard trimmings. Materials provided.
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $20
Time: 1:20-2:30 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, NOV. 18
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help in your caregiving role for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. We ask that you attend without your loved one, so you are free to share more comfortably.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Healthy Living: Brain and Body
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19
Learn how lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, cognitive activities and social engagement) may keep our brain and body healthy, potentially reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease or another type of dementia as we age.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Hearing Clinic
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19
During your one-on-one visit with Dr. Dusty Jessen and/or 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
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Canvas Acrylic Painting Classes: Highland Cow
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
Discover your creative side with our monthly canvas painting classes. Each session features a new theme and guided acrylic painting instruction in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time painter or a seasoned artist, you’ll enjoy the process, the conversation and leaving with a one-of-a-kind piece to display at home. All supplies are included.
Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Folk Art from Around the World
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
Explore the world of folk art, where traditional forms are passed down through generations and created by non-professionals. This discussion will travel continent by continent, highlighting art forms that hold deep meaning within native cultures.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Grief & Loss Support Group
FRIDAY, NOV. 21
This group is for older adults who have experienced the death of a loved one. Offered in partnership with Healing Hearts of Colorado and led by an experienced grief counselor, the group provides a safe place for sharing and allow members to connect with one another. Space is limited. By registering you agree to being contacted via email by the counselor/facilitator ahead of your first group session, so additional information can be gained to make sure that this group is appropriate for you at this time.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Join a club
The following ongoing clubs are offered on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. Check the display in the lobby for room location. Days are subject to occasional changes.
Ballroom Dance Club
1st & 3rd Monday, 1-3 p.m.
Board Games Club
1st & 3rd Thursday, 1-4 p.m.
Book Clubs
1st Wednesday, 2-4 p.m.
2nd Monday, 2-3:30 p.m.
2nd Friday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
2nd Tuesday and 4th Wednesday, 1-3 p.m.
Cribbage Club
Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Euchre Club
Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-noon
Line Dance Club
Thursdays, 1-3 p.m.
Needle Arts Club
Wednesdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
Strings & Things Club
1st Wednesday, 1-3:30 p.m.
Walking Club
Mondays, 8-10 a.m.
ONGOING FITNESS 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.
8:45-9:45 a.m. Chair Yoga
10-11 a.m. Gentle Yoga
Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, flexibility and mindfulness. All levels.
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
10 a.m.noon BridgeRefresh If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Bocce Open Play
11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
12:30-1:30 p.m.
Tai Chi - Beg.
Tai Chi - Int.
1-3 p.m. (1st & 3rd) Ballroom Dance
All skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game. Bocce Courts Volunteer No fee
A gentle and accessible introduction to Yang style Tai Chi.
Improve your balance, vitality and core strength while incorporating mindfulness practices.
Focus on building skill, confidence and connection while having fun.
1-4 p.m. Rummikub Play the classic tile-based game.
ONGOING FITNESS CLASSES & GAMES
floor-based, low-impact class that promotes better posture and stability.
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
8:45-9:45 a.m. Zumba Gold
10 -11 a.m. Tai Chi - Int.
11-noon Chair Yoga
Thursdays
11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m. Cardio Circuit
Low-impact, upbeat dance fitness class.
A gentle and accessible introduction to Yang style Tai Chi.
Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, flexibility and mindfulness. All levels.
Alternate upper body strength work with low-impact cardio.
11:1512:15 p.m. Tai Chi - Beg. A gentle and accessible introduction to Yang style Tai Chi.
Noon4 p.m. Poker
12:15-1:15 p.m. Gentle Yoga
Combine skill and strategy with a dash of luck.
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
1-4 p.m. Triple Play Canasta Triple
sessions. Appointments are
a.m.-
12:15-1:15 p.m.
1-4 p.m.
Chair Yoga This class promotes well-being and relaxation.
This class, tailored for newcomers, improves heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility.
- Adv.
2-3 p.m.
This faster-paced class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility
Military Play this standardized Mahjong game.
Play all of the dominoes from your hand before your opponents.
A 16-week evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention program.
BE INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center board meetings
The Friends November board meetings will be Thursday, Nov. 6 and Thursday, Nov. 20 from 9-11 a.m. Learn about the events we are working on and ask questions or provide input on Friends activities. All members are welcome to attend.
Candidates Forum
Date: Tuesday, Oct. 21
Time: 11 a.m.-noon
Meet the candiates for the Friends Board of Directors election at a candidate forum. Hear from those running for first vice president and member-at-large positions. For more information about the election, which will be held the week of Nov. 10, visit the Friends’ website at friendsofthehrsc.org.
November Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 8
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fee: $20 per person
Enjoy visiting with new and old friends as you listen to great music by Warren Kennison, Jr. and his Rocky Mountain Bluegrass Boys. Sponsored by Newcomer Denver, the “Friendsgiving” meal will feature turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, glazed carrots, cranberries and pumpkin pie.
Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk. Payment must be received by Friday, Nov. 3. 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.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
Member Profile
CHRISTY NELSON
Christy Nelson is a longtime Colorado resident. Originally from the Chicago area, she graduated from the University of Colorado where she majored in elementary education.
After teaching in Vail, she taught 4th grade English to Egyptian girls at a missionary school in Cairo and worked as a tour guide in the Old City of Jerusalem. She then spent 12 years with Youth With A Mission, which included refugee relief and resettlement work with Vietnamese “Boat People” in Hong Kong.
Christy met her husband, a widow with two children, in Illinois. They made Breckenridge their home for 20 years, enjoying skiing, hiking and other outdoor activities. For several years she was the volunteer coordinator at the Summit County Community and Senior Center. She returned to her teaching roots when she became the schoolmarm for the 1883 oneroom schoolhouse in Dillon. Following the passing of her husband, Christy moved closer to her grandchildren in Highlands Ranch. The transition wasn’t easy, and she received a “wake-up call” after gaining weight and becoming prediabetic. It was time to make a lifestyle change.
Christy found her way to the senior center after attending SilverSneakers classes at local recreation centers. Never quite sure if she was doing exercises correctly, she worried about hurting herself. Her weight loss and balance were not improving and she would find excuses not to attend class.
Her first senior center session with Retta Rome made all the difference. In smaller and more intimate classes, Retta instructed, coached and encouraged her students to extend their quality of life while having fun. Today Christy attributes her improved health and weight loss (more than 50 lbs.) to the great classes and the people she’s met at the center.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Upcoming community service projects
The senior center’s Community Outreach Committee is dedicated to building stronger community connections through service-based events that support local residents, address community needs and promote volunteerism.
Here are a few projects planned for the coming months:
• Angel tree: Select a tag from a holiday giving tree to provide a gift for a child living at the Denver Children’s Home.
• Veterans home: Make lap blankets for local veterans.
• Food banks: Assist with food distributions at local food banks.
• Greeting cards: Make handmade cards for
Fall train ride in Leadville
veterans and isolated older adults.
How can you help?
• Watch for the angel tree in the Highlands Ranch Senior Center lobby in November and help make the holidays special for a child in need.
• Drop off fleece fabric and greeting cards to the front desk. Your donations and support are greatly appreciated as we work together to make a difference in our community. Please contact volunteer and guest services coordinator Lyndsey George at 720-468-4824 with questions.
Despite rain and snowy weather, we had a great time on the Leadville train ride to see fall foliage on Sept. 23. Ninety-six people registered for the trip. Be sure to check out upcoming day and extended trips on Page 13.
Canada trip
Our first extended trip was a great success! Twenty-seven members enjoyed amazing cities and scenery, gorgeous fall colors and interesting tours in Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Stops included Toronto, Niagara Falls, Thousand Islands, Ottawa, Quebec City and Montreal. Our next trip is to Great Britain and Ireland in May - register soon! See page 13 for details.
DAY AND EXTENDED TRIPS
SIX the Musical
THURSDAY, JAN. 8, 2026
From Tudor queens to pop icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power. This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is raving about. SIX won 23 awards in the 2021-2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (music and lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Fee includes transportation by deluxe motor coach, tickets and trip leader.
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180
Time: 12-5:30 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Exploring Britain and Ireland Trip
MONDAY, MAY 11 - MONDAY, MAY 25, 2026
Save $200 by registering before Nov. 12
Phantom of the Opera
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.
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180 Time: 12-6 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Travel with the 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.
