WELCOME
Welcome to Stay Active. Our newsletter is tailored specifically for adults 55+ who want to live life to the fullest by staying physically, mentally, and socially engaged. Each issue is packed with information about programs, activities and events that will help you maintain an active lifestyle.
NEED A RIDE TO THE CRC?
Wheeling Township offers bus service for Wheeling Township residents Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Call 847-259-7743 between the hours of 9:00 am and 1:30 pm to schedule transportation. Reservations should be made two days before the travel date.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR E-NEWSLETTER
Receive the latest updates & announcements by email. Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter on our website at www.wheelingparkdistrict.com/active-adults
STAFF DIRECTORY
EVENTS, TRIPS & DROP-IN
Emily Matgous ematgous@wheelingparkdistrict.com 847-465-7766
HEALTH & FITNESS
Beth Harrington bharrington@wheelingparkdistrict.com 847-465-7673
LUNCH EVENTS / MENU
Michele Torres mtorres@wheelingil.gov 847-650-0650
BINGO
WINTER WONDERLAND BINGO
Join us for 10 games of bingo with exciting prizes and themed treats Location: Community Recreation Center
VALENTINE’S DAY BINGO
Join us for 10 games of bingo with exciting prizes and themed treats
Location: Community Recreation Center
TRIPS
THE 4 C NOTES
Join us at the Jacob Henry Mansion for a festive performance by The Four C Notes, plus a delicious luncheon starting at 10:30 AM. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions in advance. The fee of lunch is included.
Location: Joliet, Illinois
AURORA CHRISTKINDLMARKET
Enjoy the day exploring the outdoor German-style Christkindlmarket. Stroll through the magical villages, explore vendor products from around the world in this unique shopping experience. The fee of lunch is not included.
Location: Aurora, Illinois
COLOR ME MINE + YARD HOUSE
Come get creative at Color Me Mine! Join us for a fun and relaxing time painting your own ceramic masterpiece, followed by lunch at Yard House just across the street. Studio fee is included. Please note: the fee of lunch and your ceramic piece is not included.
Location: Glenview, Illinois
WINTERFEST LAKE GENEVA
Winterfest is located in downtown Lake Geneva. Spend the afternoon outdoors exploring, viewing ice sculptures, and day of activities included in Winterfest. The fee for lunch is not included.
Location: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
We want to make sure every spot is filled and no opportunity is missed. When a program is marked as “Full – Join the Waitlist”, it means all current spots have been taken — but plans can change! Joining the waitlist lets us notify you right away if a space opens up due to cancellations or added capacity. Being on the waitlist does not guarantee a spot, but it keeps you in line should availability change.
SHEDD AQUARIUM
Discover the magic of the Shedd Aquarium! Experience amazing marine life and an unforgettable underwater adventure. The fee for lunch is not included.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
55+ Wednesday 2/4 9:30 am - 4:30 pm $70 / $75 112551-03 1/14
CHOCOLATE & GLASS TOUR
Enjoy a delightful day filled with sweets, great food, and artistic inspiration. Begin your morning with a chocolate tour at Long Grove Confectionery, where you’ll get a behind-thescenes look at how their famous treats are made. Next, head to The Village Tavern for a relaxing lunch in a historic setting, offering a classic menu and charming ambiance. In the afternoon, explore the world of glass artistry and a live glassblowing demonstration at Peter Patterson Glassworks. The fee for lunch is not included.
Location: Long Grove, Illinois & Mundelein, Illinois AGE DAY DATE TIME FEE R/NR CODE DEADLINE
55+ Thursday 2/19 9:30 am - 3:45 pm $37 / $42 112551-04 2/12
ADMISSIONS AT CITADEL THEATRE
Come to Citadel Theatre to see Admissions—a sharp, compelling drama about a prep school leader whose push for diversity is tested when her own son’s Ivy League dreams challenge her values. This powerful story explores the lengths we’ll go to protect our children and the uncomfortable truths that surface when personal stakes hit close to home. Lunch is not included, please eat prior to the show.
Location: Lake Forest, Illinois
55+ Wednesday 2/25 12:00 - 3:45 pm $50 / $55 112551-05 2/4
ATHLETICS
PICKLEBALL
BEGINNER PICKLEBALL LESSONS
Beginner Pickleball Lesson (No Experience): Commit to learning the game of Pickleball with other beginners. Players will learn the basics of pickleball including stroke mechanics, how to serve, volley, dink, hit a 3rd drop shot, drive, score, and more in drill and game-based scenarios. By the end of the session, players will know the proper pickleball etiquette, strategy of the game, and have the confidence to participate in drop-in pickleball programs.
Location: CRC
ADVANCED BEGINNER PICKLEBALL LESSONS (LEVEL 2)
Advanced Beginner Pickleball Lessons (Level 2 - Some Experience): This class is for advancing beginners who have some experience and want to continue to improve their pickleball game. Players will participate in drills and work on consistency in forehand and backhand shots, serving, volleying, dinks, and lobs. Players will learn the strategy and ball placement and work on a softer game which will help take their game to the next level by learning to play smarter, not harder. All participants must have pickleball playing experience and must commit to the entire session.
Location: CRC
INTERMEDIATE PICKLEBALL LESSONS (LEVEL 3)
Intermediate Small Group Training Pickleball Lessons (Maximum 4)
Elevate your game with these specialized intermediate-level pickleball sessions! Designed for players with at least one year of experience and a solid understanding of the game, this program focuses on refining techniques, building consistency, and improving shot accuracy. What to Expect:
Personalized Instruction: Sessions are tailored to the needs of the group.
Skill Development: The first 30 minutes are dedicated to drills and skill enhancement. Gameplay Practice: The final 30 minutes reinforce lessons through gameplay.
Location: CRC
CHI FLOW
Chi Flow is a Tai Chi and Chi Kung based movement program that connects body, breath and intention. With slow, flowing motions and coordinated breathing, students learn to awaken and circulate internal energy (Chi), improving balance, posture and focus. Ideal for reducing stress and promoting overall wellness, Chi Flow is accessible to all levels.
Location: Health & Fitness Center
18+ Wednesday 2/18 - 3/25 10:15 - 11:15 am $120 / $130 115707-05 2/17
18+ Mon & Wed 2/16 - 3/25 10:15 - 11:15 am $210 / $220 115707-06 2/15
DROP-IN
BADMINTON (PRICES EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026)
Location: CRC | Visit www.wheelingparkdistrict.com/athletics/to view schedule
/ $8 /
INDOOR PICKLEBALL
Location: CRC | Visit www.wheelingparkdistrict.com/athletics/to view schedule or to rent a court.
PING PONG
(PRICES EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026)
Location: CRC | Visit www.wheelingparkdistrict.com/athletics/to view
LUNCH PROGRAM
Sponsored by the Village of Wheeling
DECEMBER
& MEATBALL MARINARA HAMBURGER
DECEMBER 9 | HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR– BARRETT HASELWOOD
Get ready to jingle and jam at this year’s Holiday Spectacular with Berrett Haselwood and his rockin’ ukulele! Join us for an unforgettable evening of festive fun as Berrett brings holiday classics to life with his unique, high-energy ukulele performance. This event is sure to get you in the holiday spirit
DECEMBER 10 | SING ALONG HOUR -EDIZON DAYAO
Join us for an exciting Sing Along Hour with Edizon Dayao! This interactive musical event invites everyone to sing along with Edizon, known for his captivating style and diverse repertoire. Featuring timeless classics and modern favorites, it’s perfect for all singers and those who enjoy humming. Expect laughter, joy, and a celebration of music. Gather friends, warm up your voices, and get ready for an unforgettable sing-along adventure!
DECEMBER 17| HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS– HEATHER BROUDAKIS
Celebrate the season with Heather Braoudakis in Home for the Holidays, a heartwarming musical experience filled with classic holiday tunes. Enjoy festive favorites and timeless melodies that capture the joy and spirit of the holidays, perfect for getting into the holiday mood!
Dine-In
• Time: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
• Events: 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Cost
• 60 and older: $5 (suggested donation)
• 59 and younger: $8 Menu may change without notice.
Location:
• Community Recreation Center Room 107
Additional Guidelines:
• Register for meals one week in advance by calling Dining Coordinator, Michele Torres at 847-650-0650 or Social Services at 847-459-2606
• No walk-ins will be accepted
• In order to participate in events, participants must register for a meal in advance.
Funds (in whole/part) for the Lunch at the Center program were provided through an award from Age Options through grants from the Illinois Department on Aging and/or Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health, and Human Services under Title III of the Older American Act. The suggested donation for the lunch is $5.00 per meal. No one will be turned away for inability to donate. The Village of Wheeling does not discriminate in admission to programs or activities of treatment of employment in compliance with appropriate State and Federal statutes
JANUARY
JANUARY 6
| NEW YEARS PARTY– THE AL & GUY SHOW
Ring in the New Year with The Al & Guy Show! These two talented “knuckleheads” bring hits from the 1950s to the 1980s with vocals, guitar, and backtracks. A fun, lively afternoon you won’t want to miss — welcome to our program!
JANUARY 8 | WINTER WONDERLAND–
DANTE SALAMANTE
Join us for a Winter Wonderland with Dante Salamante! Enjoy an afternoon of music, fun, and holiday cheer with friends. Sing along to your favorite tunes, share laughter, and celebrate the magic of the season in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
JANUARY 13 | WELCOME WINTER–
HEATHER BRAOUDAKIS
Step into winter with the delightful sounds of Heather Braoudakis at our Welcome Winter event! Join us for an afternoon of music, fun, and festive cheer — a perfect way to welcome the season.
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
3 | LOVING AFTERNOON– JAN & GINO
Join us for an afternoon of timeless romance with Jan & Gino, our famous musical duo! Enjoy a delightful medley of classic love songs, sing along to your favorites, and share the warmth and joy of music with friends.
FEBRUARY
12 | VALENTINES DAY CELEBRATION– GAYLE BISESI
Join us for a special Valentine’s Day event featuring Gayle Bisesi! Her jazz vocals and swinging style promise an afternoon full of energy, charm, and unforgettable melodies.
FEBRUARY
17 | MARDI GRAS FUN– ALEX TALBOTT
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style with Alex Talbott, a multi-talented performer who brings energy, heart, and joy to every show! Enjoy lively music, festive rhythms, and plenty of fun as we embrace the colorful spirit of Mardi Gras with friends, beads, and good cheer.
HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER
MEMBERSHIPS
Member Only Locker Rooms
40+ Drop In Group Exercise Classes Per Week
Basketball Open Gym
Indoor Pool
Walking Track
8 WEEKS TO WELLNESS
9,850 Square Fee of State of the Art Equipment
40+ Cardio Machines
Personal Training
Special Rate on Select Fitness Offerings & Events
Are you looking to be a healthier version of yourself? Join us for our 8 Weeks to Wellness program and get help setting personalized goals, forming good habits, and participating in weekly challenges!
Pricing:
$180 for members, $200 for non-members
Location: Health & Fitness Center
WELLNESS COACHING
New to Wheeling Health and Fitness Center, Wellness Coaching offers one-on-one help. Whether you need help with fitness, nutrition, stress management or overall balance, this service will guide you to building personalized and practical goals.
Pricing:
Single session $60 for Member, $70 for Non-Member
5 Session package $275 for Members, $325 for Non-Members
10 Session package $500 for Members, $600 for Non-Members
Location: Health & Fitness Center
INTEGRATIVE NURSE COACHING
Are you struggling to find a good balance with living a healthier lifestyle? DCS Wellness Consulting’s own Danene Coroneos-Shannon, an Integrative Nurse Coach with over 25 years of bedside nursing experience, combines traditional nursing with holistic methods to support personal growth and healthy lifestyle.
Pricing:
6 sessions $550 Member, $625 Non-Member
12 sessions $1100 Member, $1,175 Non-Member
Location: Health & Fitness Center
EVENTS
DROP-IN
Drop-in programs are an opportunity to socialize and try new things! No experience is necessary, all are welcome! No registration is required. For more information please reach out to Emily Matgous at (847) 465-7766 or email at ematgous@wheelingparkdistrict.com.
VOLUNTEER CRAFT GROUP
This group meets every week to work on a variety of craft projects for the community.
Location: Community Recreation Center
DAY
55+ Monday 12:30 - 2:30 pm Free
KNIT, STITCH AND CHATTER
Be social while you stitch! All participants must bring their own supplies. No experience is needed.
Location: Community Recreation Center
DAY
55+ Tuesday 12:30 - 3:00 pm Free
CANASTA
Drop in to play Canasta every Tuesday! Experience is needed, but if you are a beginner, you are invited to come and watch and learn the game.
Location: Community Recreation Center
DAY
55+ Tuesday 1:00 - 3:30 pm Free
MAHJONG
Drop in to play Mahjong every Wednesday! Experience is needed, but if you are a beginner, you are invited to come and watch and learn the game.
Location: Community Recreation Center
DAY
55+ Wednesday 1:00 - 4:00 pm Free
BRAIN GAMES
Spend the morning with Lisa Brodsky doing puzzles, trivia, memory games, and more!
Location: Community Recreation Center
DAY
55+ Last Friday of the month 10:30 - 11:30 am Free
CLASSES
PAINT & SIP
Participants will get to enjoy a fun, relaxed painting session to create a masterpiece while having a blast with friends! Wine/Seltzer and a charcuterie board is included.
Location: Chevy Chase Country Club
CANASTA LESSONS
This beginner-friendly course is designed for individuals who are eager to dive into the world of Canasta, a classic card game known for its strategy, teamwork, and exciting game play. Whether you’re new to card games or looking to expand your repertoire, this class will guide you through the fundamentals of Canasta.
Location: Community Recreation Center
MAHJONG LESSONS
This beginner-friendly course is designed for individuals who are eager to dive into the world of Mahjong. Whether you’re new to Mahjong or looking to expand your repertoire, this class will guide you through the fundamentals of the game.
Location: Community Recreation Center
BOLLYWOOD ADULT DANCE
This class will be a combination of Bollywood, Indian folk , hip-hop, contemporary and expression. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced dancer, group classes give you opportunity to learn a variety of dances in a fun, low-pressure atmosphere.
Location: Community Recreation Center
EVENTS
EVENTS
CHICAGO TRUE STORIES SHOW
Enjoy a catered lunch followed by Martina Mathisen 1920s Chicago True Stories performance!
Location: Community Recreation Center
HOLIDAY PARTY
December is here, and it is time to celebrate! Spend the afternoon enjoying lunch and social time with your friends! Our special guest, Jane Allyson, will kick-start the holiday cheer with singing and games! The fee includes lunch and one drink ticket. Additional beer and wine will be available for purchase.
Location: Community Recreation Center
WINE AND YOGA
Join us for an evening of yoga followed by wine and cheese. Pre registration required.
Location: Chevy Chase Country Club
PUMP & POUR
Join us for a one-hour body pump class follows by wine, beer, and charcuterie.
Location: Health & Fitness Center
SWIMMING
ADULT SWIM LESSONS
Adult Swim Lessons are personalized based on the participant's current skill level. Instructors work with participants to improve skills and learn swimming fundamentals.
-
2/25 - 4/1 6:35 - 7:05 pm $85 / $95
AQUA FIT
The use of aqua noodles, water barbells, steps, resistance bands, and great choreography combine to help you get fit without impact on your joints! Please check current Group Exercise schedule as class days and times sometimes change. $13/$16 per class, $120/$150 for 10 classes (Or included in Health & Fitness Center Membership)
Monday 10:15 - 11:15 am
Tuesday 7:00 - 8:00 pm Thursday 7:00 - 8:00 pm Friday 9:00 - 10:00 am
8:45 am - 9:45 am
LAP/OPEN SWIM
See the Indoor Pool schedule at www.wheelingparkdistrict.com.
(3-9 years)
(2 years & under)
