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Discover the joy of social dancing at the Darke County Senior Center

DARKE COUNTY – Do you find yourself wishing you could join in on the dance floor at social events, but hesitate to do so? Perhaps you dance but feel a bit self-conscious in front of others. Or maybe you simply want to improve your skills and feel more confident when the music starts. If any of these sounds like you, this program is designed to help.

What You Will learn

  • How to listen for the dance beat in different kinds of music
  • Dance floor etiquette
  • Leading and following techniques
  • Basic dance steps with a partner
  • Tips for showing off on the dance floor – if you’re feel adventurous

Program Details

This program isn’t about complicated moves or fancy routines. Instead, you’ll learn how to dance with more confidence at receptions and social functions. Whether you come with a partner or on your own, everyone is welcome. The program is suitable for all comfort levels, for those who already at ease dancing to those who are nervous at the very thought.

Who Should Join?

  • No experience is necessary
  • Beginners are especially encouraged to participate
  • If you’re still unsure, feel free to come and watch – we dare you to stay in your seat!

Basic Information

  • Instructors are Tim and Michelle Kathman
  • Classes every Friday from 3:30 – 5:00 pm from January 9th – February 27th.
  • Class Size Limit:  20
  • Fee:  No Charge, although donations are appreciated
  • Sign up at the Senior Center or text Wally (508) 789-3884 or Mary (937) 423-2565.

The movie for January “Doctor Zhivago” and will be shown Friday, January 9th,  at 11:30 am. “Doctor Zhivago” is a 1965 movie masterpiece adapted from a banned book. Omar Sharif stars in the romance drama of the life of a Russian physician and poet who, although married to another, falls in love with a political activist’s wife and experiences hardship during World War I and then the October Revolution.

Also on Friday, January 9th, from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm is the “Senior Soothe Me”. This month Shelly Acker will be doing chair massage, which reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calm. It also alleviates physical tension in the neck, shoulders, and back, which helps relieve muscle pain and improve circulation. 

Ty Baker-Baumann will also be available to do Thai Yoga Massage mini sessions. During a Thai yoga massage, the practitioner moves your body into easy stretches, presses muscles, and helps you breathe and relax. Benefits include

  • Looser, less tight muscles
  • Better flexibility and movement
  • Reduced stress and tension
  • Feeling calmer, lighter, and more energized

How to Register

  • Friday, January 9th from 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
  • Sign up at the Senior Center — Registering is required
  • Fee is $10 for 15 minutes

Don’t forget the Annual Senior Soup event on Thursday, January 8th, from noon to 2:00 pm Please RSVP at the Senior Center or by contacting Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565. Admission is complimentary; donations are appreciated. Soup is healthy and the DC Seniors have the proof in writing.

7 Benefits of Soup

  • Hydration Boost Soup, made with broth or water, helps keep you hydrated. It supports healthy skin, digestion, and body functions, while also supplying nutrients from vegetables and lean proteins. Soup is a good option for those who struggle to drink enough water.
  • Nutrient-Dense Soups made with vegetables, lean meats, legumes, and whole grains provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Ingredients like carrots, spinach, tomatoes, and celery offer fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium for immunity, healthy skin, and blood pressure regulation.
  • Supports Digestion Soups are easy on the stomach and simple to digest, making them ideal for sensitive stomachs or recovery. Their liquid base aids nutrient absorption, while ingredients like high-fiber vegetables, legumes, and whole grains promote regular bowel movements and gut health.
  • Promotes Weight Loss Soups made with healthy bases like vegetable broth and nutrient-rich ingredients are filling yet low in calories. Their high water content helps you feel full, making them a good option for weight management.
  • Improves Immunity Soups with garlic, onions, ginger, or chicken can boost the immune system. Garlic fights microbes and viruses, ginger reduces inflammation, and onions provide antioxidants for overall health. A warm soup is helpful when fighting a cold or maintaining immunity.
  • Easy to Make and Customize Soups are versatile, simple to prepare, and can be adapted for various diets like vegetarian or gluten-free. With countless variations and one-pot cooking, they’re a quick and healthy meal option.
  • Satisfies Comfort Food Cravings  Soup delivers warmth and satisfaction as a comfort food with fewer calories than classic dishes. Its blend of heat, taste, and hearty ingredients makes it a nourishing, filling option that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish.

If you enjoy crafting, be sure to reserve your spot in the Snowflake Trivet class. The class will be held on Thursday, January 15th at 1:00 pm, cost $5 and is limited to 35 participants. Marsha Rardin will teach attendees how to make a trivet from clothespins arranged in a snowflake pattern. This trivet is perfect for holding winter casseroles.

There’s also a newly added Lending Library at the senior facility for those who love to curl up to an enjoyable book. The library will operate on the honor system; no library card is needed. Borrow what you want and bring it back when you can. If you’d like to donate books (but not more than five, please) contact Wally at (508) 789-3884. 

JANUARY  

05 – Monday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am

05 – Monday – Finger Knit Scarf Craft Class 11:30 – 12:30 am *RSVP limited 

    class size

05 – Monday – Tai Chi 1 Beginner 1:00 – 2:00 pm *RSVP limited class size

05 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 – 8:00 pm we meet inside

     GHS, (100 GreenWave Way) main entrance and walk indoors.

06 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

06 – Tuesday – Free Bingo with Mary Rader 11:30 – 12:30 pm

06 Tuesday – Game Day from 1:00 – 3:00 pm

07 – Wednesday – Bingocize-Nutrition 10:00 – 11:00 am *RSVP by 1/2

07 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon – 1:00 pm *RSVP 

07 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm

07 – Wednesday – DC Seniors General Meeting beginning at 3:00 pm

08 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

08 – Thursday – Senior Soup  Noon – 2:00 pm 

08 – Thursday – Tai Chi 1 Advanced 3:30 – 4:15 pm *RSVP limited class size

09 –  Friday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am 

09 Friday – Movie & Popcorn: Doctor Zhivago 11:30 am (new time & new day)

09 – Friday – Senior Soothe Me (Chair Massage & Thai Yoga Massage) 11:30 am – 2 pm    **Must sign up & fee of $10 for 15 minutes required

09 – Friday – Social Dancing 3:30 – 5:00 pm *RSVP limited class size

12 – Monday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am

12 – Monday – Tai Chi 1 Beginner 1:00 – 2:00 pm

12 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 – 8:00 pm we meet inside 

     GHS, (100 GreenWave Way) main entrance and walk indoors.

13 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

13 Tuesday – Game Day from 1:00 – 3:00 pm

14 – Wednesday – Bingocize-Nutrition 10:00 – 11:00 am 

14 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon – 1:00 pm

14 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm

15 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

15 – Thursday – Snowflake Trivet Craft Class ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm *RSVP limited

     class size

15 – Thursday – Tai Chi 1 Advanced 3:30 – 4:15 pm

16 – Friday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am 

16 Friday – Helping Hands 1:00 – 3:00 pm

16 – Friday – Social Dancing 3:30 – 5:00 pm *RSVP limited class size

19 – Monday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am

19 – Monday – Tai Chi 1 Beginner 1:00 – 2:00 pm

19 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 – 8:00 pm we meet inside GHS main entrance and walk indoors.

20 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

20 Tuesday – Game Day from 1:00 – 3:00 pm

21 – Wednesday – Bingocize-Nutrition 10:00 – 11:00 am 

21 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon – 1:00 pm

21 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm

21 – Wednesday – Alzheimer’s Support Group 5:00 – 6:00 pm

22 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am

22 – Thursday – Lunch and Learn by Close to Home at noon *RSVP by 1/15 

22 – Thursday – Tai Chi 1 Advanced 3:30 – 4:15 pm

23 – Friday – REFIT®  10:30 – 11:15 am 

23 – Friday – Social Dancing 3:30 – 5:00 pm 

All events are held at the Birchwood Senior Center, 5844 Jaysville-St. Johns Rd, Greenville unless otherwise indicated. These events are open to anyone 55+. Membership of $2 per year is required. Questions and *RSVPs should be directed to Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565. **Sign up at the Senior Center for the Senior Soothe Me. 15 minute time slots available.

The DC Seniors work hard to inform seniors about any schedule updates and prioritize everyone’s safety, particularly during challenging winter weather. One of the most effective ways to stay informed about event changes is by visiting their Facebook page.