303-791-2416 | highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter | seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org | 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Suite 100
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October, promotes early detection and awareness of breast cancer. Here are some important tips to know:
Early Detection is Key: Regular mammograms are crucial for early detection, which significantly increases treatment success.
Know Your Risk: Understand your family history and discuss risk factors with your doctor.
Get Screened: Talk to your doctor about recommended screening schedules based on your risk level.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, and strive for a balanced diet.
Breast Health &
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
Know Your Body: Be familiar with your breasts’ normal appearance and feel, and report any changes to your doctor.
Support and Hope: Offer support to those affected by breast cancer, focusing on the strength and resilience of survivors.
Spread Awareness: Share information about breast cancer and encourage others to get screened.
Remember the Warriors: Acknowledge the courage and strength of those battling breast cancer.
Promote Research: Support organizations dedicated to breast cancer research and finding a cure.
Breast health is an important topic for women and men. Get latest information about breast health and cancer prevention from UCHealth oncologist Dr. Acharya and surgeon Dr. Widner.
Fee: No fee
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Halloween Dance
THURSDAY, OCT. 30
Celebrate Halloween with a lively evening of music, food and fun! Dance the night away to the sounds of the Cruisin’ Cats, enjoy a full dinner with drinks and show off your best costume for a chance to win a prize in our costume contest. Whether you’re spooky, silly or stylish, costumes are encouraged.
Fee: Member: $25, Nonmember: $28
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
STAY INFORMED
Friends peach and pear fundraiser a success
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center President Sue Frommelt (left) and Secretary Ginny Morgan (right) thank Terre Cone from the Highlands Ranch Rotary for a box of peaches. Eighty boxes of peaches and pears were purchased by center members. All proceeds will go to the Friends.
Senior center receives
CPRA Columbine Award for design
The Columbine Awards are annual awards presented by the Colorado Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) to recognize outstanding achievements in parks and recreation across the state. The Highlands Ranch Senior Center was awarded the prize for best practices and creative ideas in design for new or renovated facilities. Senior Center Manager, Jill Hall, will accept the award on the Metro District’s behalf in mid-October.
Challenge ageist stereotypes
Ageism refers to stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) toward others or ourselves based on age. It negatively impacts our health, wellbeing, financial security and the economy.
The good news is that we can do something about it by spreading the word on Ageism Awareness Day. Some assume older adults are a monolithic group, but the reality is older adults have a wide range of experiences, interests, skills and identities. Additionally, across all life stages and identities, we share values and needs. We often treat people of different age groups as “the other,” keeping us from finding solutions together.
We must create a new picture of aging and acknowledge the fundamental needs that unite us. On Oct. 9, join the American Society on Aging and others across the country in tackling the age bias that keeps us from building a better future for us all.
NEWSLETTER & GUIDE OCTOBER 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 & Arnold Infante Facility Services Technicians
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.
Medicare 101
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 1
This will be an overview of Medicare benefits, with options explained and your questions answered. How and when do I sign up? What does Medicare cover? What is a Medicare supplement versus Advantage Plan? What you can do during open enrollment versus annual enrollment?
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11:30 a.m. or 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Poker - Learn the Basics
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER. 1
Learn the basics of poker including rules, terminology, hand rankings and simple strategies to help you feel confident at the table.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m. - noon
Location: Activity Room
Downsizing Made Easy
THURSDAY, OCT. 2
Overwhelmed by the thought of downsizing? Join us as we demystify the process, break down the options, identify pitfalls to avoid and provide you with a clear path to downsizing made easy.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Zendoodling
THURSDAYS, OCT. 2, 23 & 30
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
Bingo
THURSDAY, OCT. 2 & TUESDAY, OCT. 21
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
Improv for Life
MONDAYS, OCT. 6, 13, 20 & 27
Looking for a fun, low-pressure way to boost your creativity and learn new skills? Join IMPROV for Life, a four-week class with engaging games and techniques designed to help you think on your feet, listen more effectively, use your imagination and embrace life’s surprises. This is not about becoming a performer—it’s about building real-life skills through movement, play, and laughter.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-2:30 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Abstract Watercolor Class
MONDAYS, OCT. 6, 20 & 27
Explore color and texture in a relaxed and creative setting. No experience needed.
Fee: Member: $33, Nonmember: $38
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, OCT. 6
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
ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls
TUESDAY, OCT. 7
Did you know the primary traumatic injury that results in hospital admissions is related to falling? This program, presented by AdventHealth Injury & Prevention Specialist Mindie Ottke, will help you decrease your risk of falling, develop a plan to get help and/or get up if you fall.
Fee: No fee
Time: 9:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Field Day
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6
Round up your team of six and get ready for a day of friendly but fierce competition. You’ll face off in games like bocce, cornhole, giant Jenga, musical chairs and more, earning points along the way. At the end of the day, the top three teams with the most points will land on the podium and take home prizes. Water and snacks will be provided to keep you fueled, so bring your best game.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $7
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Intro to Radio Control Airplanes
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8, 15 & 22
Join this volunteer-led, three-part class to explore the exciting world of remote control (RC) flight. Your instructor will guide you through the history, equipment and science behind RC flying. You’ll learn about different aircraft types, including airplanes, helicopters, drones, and jets, as well as construction materials, power systems and flight controls. The final session covers safety, flying regulations and how to get started with local clubs.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Activity Room
Blood Pressure Checks
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8
Stop in and have your blood pressure checked by UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital nursing professionals. First come, first served.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.- noon
Location: North Lobby
Gardening Help Desk
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8
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, OCT. 9
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.
Location: South Lobby
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Foot Health: Why it Matters
THURSDAY, OCT. 9
Back by popular demand, podiatrist Christopher Sullivan will provide foot health education, helping us to understand how the health of our feet impacts our overall health and the ability to remain active.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Line Dance Club
THURSDAYS, OCT. 9, 16, 23 & 30
Interested in line dancing or want to brush up on the moves you already know? Line dancing isn’t just country and western. Join us as we explore a variety of styles, including the hustle, cha cha and more. No partner is needed and step-by-step instruction will be provided for every dance.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
Book Clubs
Each month, members explore a new title across a variety of genres and come together for lively, thoughtful conversation in a relaxed setting. All reading levels are welcome.
• Monday club meets Oct. 13, 2-3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday club meets Oct. 1, 2-4 p.m.
• Friday club meets Oct. 10, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: No fee
Location: Varies; please check at front desk for book club location.
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY OCT. 13
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 plus day fee. Please register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Trivia on Tap
MONDAY, OCT. 13
Test your knowledge with an afternoon of trivia, fun and friendly competition with prizes after each game. Pizza and non-alcoholic refreshments will be provided. BYOB.
Fee: Member: $7, Nonmember: $8
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, OCT. 14 & WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
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
Engaging with Government
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 15
Learn how to engage with your state, county and local governments, candidates and committees. This class will be nonpartisan.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Pup & Cup Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, OCT. 16
Stop in for a visit with Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Senior Resource Deputy Ryan Falkner and fourlegged Law Enforcement Officer Leo.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: South Lobby
Aging Well While Aging Solo
THURSDAY, OCT. 16
Whether by choice or circumstance, solo aging is becoming a significant demographic reality. In this engaging and practical 60-minute session, you will receive insights and strategies to help plan confidently and live meaningfully as you age.
Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Grief and Loss Support Group
FRIDAY, OCT. 17
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 allows 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 to make sure this group is appropriate for you at this time.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Levels added to watercolor classes
Beginning in November, the watercolor painting classes will be split into two levels.
• Level One: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-noon.
• Level Two: Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon.
You must complete at least one month of beginner classes before taking Level Two.
Ain’t Done Just Yet
SATURDAY, OCT. 18
Experience a funny, touching and refreshingly honest look at growing older in “Ain’t Done Just Yet”. This lively production explores the ups, downs and surprising turns of aging with humor, heart and a knowing wink. Packed with memorable songs, vivid storytelling and characters that feel instantly familiar, the show dives into aging and ageism in a way that’s both entertaining and deeply relatable holding your attention from the opening moment to the final bow.
Fee: Member: $8, Nonmember: $10
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Diabetes/Prediabetes 101
TUESDAY, OCT. 21
Join us for this health talk about diabetes and prediabetes, including medication, diagnosis, diet and physiology. Registered Dietician Susan Weitkunat of South Denver Cardiology Associates will share facts about diabetes, pre-diabetes and lifestyle choices for better health.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, OCT. 21
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
Advanced Planning for Funeral & Cremation Services
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
This discussion will explore opportunities to pre-plan for funeral and cremation services. You questions are welcome. No solicitation.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Paint & Pour
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
Enjoy a guided painting session featuring an aspen scene. Weather permitting, we’ll paint together on the patio, but we can move indoors if needed. This is a BYOB event—bring your favorite drink (wine, beer or champagne only) and relax while creating your own masterpiece. All paint supplies will be provided and no experience is necessary.
Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2 or Patio
Art History Lectures
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
Pablo Picasso remains a central figure in art history, but what exactly makes him such a big deal? You might be surprised by the wide range of styles he mastered throughout his life. Join us for a fascinating look at Picasso’s work and his lasting impact on the art world.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Activity Room
Breast Health & Cancer Prevention
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At this program, UCHealth oncologist Dr. Acharya and surgeon Dr. Widner will share about breast health and cancer prevention.
Fee: No fee. Day pass required for nonmembers
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Reverse Mortgages: Facts & Strategies
SATURDAY, OCT. 25
This presentation will explain a reverse mortgage, how it works and how both the borrower and children benefit. Bring your questions and concerns. Educational only. No solicitation.
Fee: No fee. Day pass required for nonmembers
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Spooky and Poisonous Plants
THURSDAY, OCT. 30
Join CSU Extension for an entertaining excursion into the surprisingly spooky world of plants, just in time for Halloween.
Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Activity Room
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.
Suitable for all levels, including those with limited mobility.
Open
Learn the essential principles of drawing. Starter kit is an additional $15 at the front desk.
If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.
skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
Thursdays 8:45-9:45 a.m. Zumba Gold
Low-impact, upbeat dance fitness class.
9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Cribbage Combinations of fifteen get points
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.
9 a.m.noon One-on-One Tech Support 45-minute sessions. Appointments are required.
a.m.noon Euchre Play this fun Midwestern game. MPR 3
a.m.-
WatercolorLevel 2 For those who have taken Level 1. All materials provided.
Train
1-4 p.m.
Play all of the dominoes from your hand before your opponents.
BE INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch
Senior Center board meetings
The Friends October board meetings are scheduled for Oct. 6 and 20 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. All members are welcome to attend.
October Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 8
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 guitarist Warren Floyd. This festive luncheon, sponsored by Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, will feature grilled hamburgers and hot dogs with potato salad, baked beans and dessert.
Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk. Payment must be received by Friday, Oct. 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.
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.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
Member Spotlight
Meet Michael & Mary Beth Watkins
Michael and Mary Beth met at the University of Memphis. In 1972, Mary Beth earned her “MRS,” while Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry, later achieving a master’s degree in chemistry. Their early housing adventures were like a sitcom. The first apartment was nicknamed the Garbage Apartment, barely worthy of a two-star hotel, but there was a rising star in the neighborhood named Elvis Presley. The Little Yellow House proved to be an unfixable nightmare, and their third home had an abandoned marijuana grow lab in the attic that had turned into a mold farm.
In 2007, Michael faced a life-threatening battle with endocarditis. His recovery in 2008 was nothing short of miraculous. On his 58th birthday, the family joked by playing Connect the Surgery Scars instead of pin the tail on the donkey.
In 2019, the couple moved to Colorado to be closer to family, arriving in true Rocky Mountain fashion to an 80-mph windstorm and heavy snow.
They have been volunteers at the library and with the historical society. Today, you will see them sharing their smiles at the senior center’s front desk and teaching members to play Mahjong.
They keep life simple: Only three worries a day and none worth worrying about. As Mary Beth says, “I keep Michael around because he makes me laugh.”
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.
Lend or receive a helping hand with Dougnad
On Saturday, Oct. 25, volunteers are teaming up with older adults in Douglas County to offer help with home improvement projects as part of a service day called Dougnad. Whether you know an older adult in need of a helping hand or have a helping hand to give, join us by assisting with minor exterior home improvements such as planting flowers, pulling weeds and raking leaves. Eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Douglas County staff will review requests and match volunteers with older adult households. For more information, visit https://www.douglas.co.us/volunteeropportunities/dougnad/
Take advantage of GetSetUp
The senior center has partnered with awardwinning 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:
• Hand and Finger Exercises for Arthritis Relief
• What’s New in Medicare: Upcoming Changes and Updates
• Kahoot Game Hour
• Top Foods to Improve Your
Volunteer drivers needed
Aging Resources of Douglas County needs volunteers to drive older adults to the senior center, medical appointments, grocery shopping and more. Benefits include flexible scheduling, ability to pick up a vehicle at the senior center, orientation held at the senior center and making an impact in the lives of older adults. For more information, call 303-814-4300 or visit agingresourcesdougco.org.
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
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.
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.
