SOUTH JORDAN SENIOR PROGRAMS
THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES ON SENIOR HAPPENINGS
Located at: South Jordan Community Center 10778 S Redwood Rd | South Jordan, Utah 84095 801-302-1222 or 801-253-5203 ext 1102 | www sjc utah gov Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
WELCOME TO SOJO SENIOR PROGRAMS!
The Community Center staff and the Senior Advisory Committee welcome you to our great center! Participation in activities for Senior Programs are for seniors 60+. Joining is free and classes are free unless otherwise noted. See information listed in the following pages of this newsletter. Call us if you have any questions!
SOUTH JORDAN SENIOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE
TheSouthJordanSeniorAdvisoryCommitteeisdedicatedtohelpingpromotetheinterestsof olderadultsandcaregiversinthecommunitybypartneringwithSeniorPrograms toprovideacreativeandinformationalenvironmentwhereolderpeoplecanengage insocialactivities bysustainingandimprovingthequalityofhealth,well-beingandsafety andbysupportingthefulfillmentofolderadultneedsinthecommunity
OpenmeetingsheldthelastMondayofthemonth InformationpostedonUtahPublicNotice websitelocatedathttps://www.utah.gov/pmnandinthefollowingpagesofthisnewsletter.
Black History Month is a powerful symbolic celebration that signifies the important role of Black History in the pursuit of racial justice and equality. In February we honor the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape our nation. The 2026 theme is “A Century of Black History Commemorations” and is 100 years since the first organized national commemoration took place in 1926 (asalh.org). February was chosen because it contains the birthdays of two key figures in the fight for freedom and equality, Fredrick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Look for opportunities to learn more!
“Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history”
~Carter G. Woodson
Information in this newsletter is subject to change at any time
BREAKFAST | EVERY FRIDAY | 8:00-10:00 AM | $2.00
Darla's Diner Breakfast provided on Friday! In-person seating available ongoing. Limited to one meal per person. First come, first serve. Cash or check is accepted by placing it in the provided breakfast donation box. Homebound available for those who qualify. Qualification forms available at the front desk.
BEVERAGE CART | MONDAY-FRIDAY | 8 AM-1 PM | INCLUDED WITH A MEAL, OTHERWISE SUGGESTED
DONATION: $1.00
Our beverage cart is located in the hallway outside of the kitchen. It includes regular coffee, hot chocolate, water, apple cider, and tea. These beverages are self serve. All beverages are included in a meal, otherwise a suggested donation of $1 is appreciated.
LUNCH | MONDAY-FRIDAY | 11:30 AM-12:15 PM | HOMEBOUND MEAL PICK-UP AT 11:00 AM
SUGGESTED DONATION FOR 60+ IS $4.00
Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services is providing lunch at the Community Center. Homebound lunch meals are available for those who qualify. Qualification forms available at the front desk. Regular meals are served between 11:30 AM-12:15 PM are in-person and first come first serve Donations are accepted by placing cash or check in the provided donation box or online at https://salt-lakecounty-aging-adult-services.square.site/
FOOD DONATIONS | EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY | 11:15 AM
TRANSPORTATION
Our Senior Center receives a variety of food donations from Olive Garden, Kneaders, Costco, Smith’s, and more. We will have an individual drawing for these items every week at 11:15 AM on Tuesday and Thursday. *Days and times are subject to change.
TRANSPORTATION | MONDAY-FRIDAY | 9:00 AM-3:30 PM | FREE
Transportation to and from Senior Programs is available for South Jordan Residents ages 60+ free of charge. Reservations need to be made no later than the day before a ride is needed. Please call 801-302-1222 or 801-253-5203 ext. 1102 to schedule a ride.
TRIPS | MONTHLY-SEE CALENDAR | COST VARIES DEPENDING ON TRIP
Day trips are scheduled every month to various places Seating is limited and sign up is on a first come first serve basis Please see "Coming Up" section on page 7 for next months trips and the date you can start signing up. Sign up is taken in person or by phone. You are permitted to sign yourself up and one other person If a trip fills up, your name can be put on stand by The stand by list will be moved up in the order names are listed Any payment is due at the time of sign up You will not be placed on the list without payment
FITNESS
T'AI CHI | EVERY TUESDAY & FRIDAY | 10:00-11:00 AM | IN-PERSON | STREAMING ON ZOOM AT THE SAME TIME
TaughtbyRayJ ZoomMeetingID:98996676163,Passcode:205493 Joinuseveryweekforthiscalmingmethodofstretchingandbreathingsaidto reduceanxietyanddepressionwhileimprovingbalance,flexibilityandmusclestrength Primarilydonestandingandinachair
FLOW YOGA | EVERY MONDAY | 2:30 PM | IN-PERSON
Taught by Cassy. Designed to focus on the connection between breath, movement and mind. Primarily done on the floor using a yoga mat (provided, if needed).
YIN YOGA | EVERY THURSDAY| 2:30 PM | IN-PERSON
Taught by Cassy. A slow paced style of yoga that incorporates holding postures for longer periods. Increases flexibility as well as improves circulation and emotional balance. Primarily done on the floor using a yoga mat (provided, if needed).
RESTORATIVE YOGA | EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY | 9:30-10:30 AM | IN-PERSON
MONDAY CLASS STREAMED ON ZOOM AT THE SAME TIME Monday class taught by Stefani, Wednesday class taught by Katie. Monday Meeting ID: 938 2111 1657 Passcode: 518770. Designed to strengthen your mind, body and spirit. Primarily done on the floor using a yoga mat (provided, if needed).
GENTLE YOGA | EVERY THURSDAY | 10:00 AM | IN-PERSON
In-person taught by Alicia. Designed to increase flexibility, strength and balance. Primarily done in a chair.
PICKLEBALL | EVERY MONDAY, TUESDAY & THURSDAY| 1:30 PM (MONDAY STARTS AT 1:45 PM)
A fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong and helps improve hand-eye coordination, dexterity, mobility, agility, and balance. Played indoor in the auditorium.
PICKLEBALL BASICS WITH REGGIE | EVERY MONDAY | 1:00-1:45 PM
If you're new to the sport of pickleball, then this class is for you! It will teach skills, rules, and scoring of this fun and popular sport.
ZUMBA GOLD | EVERY THURSDAY | 9:15 AM | IN-PERSON
This class is perfect if you are looking for a modified Zumba class that recreates the original moves you love at a lower-intensity. Join Eleika and reap the benefits in your cardiovascular system, and improve your flexibility and balance!
EXERCISE EQUIPMENT | MONDAY-FRIDAY | AVAILABLE BETWEEN 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
One treadmill and 3 recumbent bikes are available for your use, complete with a television to help the time go by.
STRENGTH TRAINING | EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 2:30 PM | IN-PERSON
One of the most important things you can do for your body! Join Cassy on Wednesday and together you can combat weakness and frailty while preserving bone density, independence, and vitality!
BOLLYPOP | EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 9:00 AM | IN-PERSON
BollyPop Dance Fitness is a high energy cardio workout with easy to follow moves to Bollywood hits. Done standing and sitting in a chair.
CLUBS & GAMES
BINGO! | EVERY WEDNESDAY | 12:30 PM | FREE
Join us for this classic game! It is free to play and everyone goes home with a prize! One lucky person will also win the blackout prize!
CANASTA CLUB | EVERY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY | 12:30 PM | FREE
This classic card game is easy to learn and a lot of fun!
BILLIARDS | MONDAY-FRIDAY | AVAILABLE BETWEEN 8:00 AM-3:30 PM | FREE
Anyone for a game of pool? We have a 7 foot table along with all the supplies, just bring players!
WII BOWLING | MONDAY-FRIDAY | AVAILABLE BETWEEN 8:00 AM-3:30 PM | FREE
A fun digital way to stay active and work on your perfect game! No lifting of heavy bowling balls required! Are you part of the 300 club?
CHINESE MAHJONG CLUB | EVERY TUESDAY | 12:30-3:00 PM | FREE
A tile based game developed in 19th century China. It is a social game that allows friends to get together and have fun!
COINS WITH GENE | ONCE A MONTH-CHECK CALENDAR (PAGES 4-5) FOR DATE | 10:00 AM
Didyouknowthereisa2004Quarterworth$2000?Itisa2004-DWisconsin“ExtraLeaf”StateQuarter Howlonghasitbeensinceyouwentthrough yourcoinjar?Bringyourcollectedcoinstoseewhattheirvalueisorlearnhowtostartcollectingcoins!
HAND, KNEE, AND FOOT CARD CLUB | EVERY FRIDAY | 10:00 AM | FREE
Come play a fun variation of Canasta with us!
OIL/ACRYLIC PAINTING | EVERY TUESDAY | 12:30-3:00 PM | $3.00/CLASS
Taught by Fran and Karen. Whether you are new to oils or have experience, you will learn something new in this supportive class environment. You must have your own supplies. Supply list available at the front desk. Beginners welcome!
WATERCOLOR | EVERY FRIDAY | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM | $3.00/CLASS
TaughtbyGwen Noviceorprofessional,youwillenjoythisclass!Youmusthaveyourownsupplies Supplylistavailableatthefrontdesk
CERAMICS | EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY | 12:30-3:30 PM | $1.00 + COST OF SUPPLIES
Openstudioenvironment,haveagreattimecreatingoriginalpiecesofart.Wehavemoldedpiecesavailabletochoosefromthatyoucanpaintorglaze andhavefiredinthekiln Ourvolunteerswouldbehappytohelpyoufindjusttherightpiecetobegin!Fee'svarydependingonpiece
WOODCARVING | EVERY THURSDAY | 9:00 AM | FREE
Create amazing works of art using a simple piece of wood. Bring your creativity! Some supplies provided.
CROCHET AND KNIT | EVERY WEDNESDAY | 9:30 AM | FREE
Join Norma every Wednesday to learn something new or have someone to talk to while you work. Yarn donations accepted.
Pyrography means “writing with fire” and is the art of decorating wood with burn marks from a controlled application of a heated object like a poker
PYROGRAPHY (WOOD BURNING) CLASS | EVERY TUESDAY | 10:00 PM | FREE UPDATEDDAY!!
LIBRARY | MONDAY-FRIDAY | AVAILABLE BETWEEN 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
Wehaveaplethoraofbooksthathavebeendonatedforyourenjoyment.Noneedto"check"themout,justreturnthemtothedesignated"BookReturn" oncecompletedsoothersmaybenefitfromthisservice Booksaremanagedandorganizedbyourvolunteerlibrarian,Midge
COMPUTER LAB | MONDAY-FRIDAY | AVAILABLE BETWEEN 8:00 AM-3
Checking emails or playing solitaire, the computer lab is available for your virtual needs. Printer available as well. Please limit printing to 10 pages per person. Additional pages will be 10 cents each. Payment can be made in the office.
COMPUTER BASICS WITH MIKE | EVERY TUESDAY | 10:00 AM | FREE
Learn basic computer skills or bring your specific questions.
CELL PHONE HELP | ONCE A MONTH, CHECK CALENDAR (PAGES 4-5) FOR DATE | 10:30 AM
Need a little extra help figuring out your cell phone? We can help! Students from American Academy of Innovation will be here monthly to answer your questions. Sign up in the office.
BRIDGE CAFÉ | ONCE A MONTH, CHECK CALENDAR (PAGES 4-5) FOR DATE | 11:30 AM
A collaboration between American Academy of Innovation, Senior Programs, and South Jordan City operations. Once a month during lunch students and SoJo City workers will come to lunch with Senior Programs where we can talk about what happens in a particular city department We will answer questions and develop relationships to build bridges between generations and city involvement
BRAINFITNESSWITHREGGIE|EVERYMONDAY|1:45PM|FREE Give your brain a fun workout and help it improve its mental fitness! This class will focus on cognitive stimulation with fun, in-class exercises and brain games to help improve memory, attention, focus, logic, learning, and more Added bonus - jokes and puns!
VITAL AGING CLASS | EVERY MONDAY | 11:00 AM | FREE JoinJessefromValleyBehavioralHealthforaninformativecoursethatwillteachpositiveskillstohelpwitheverydaystressors. FebruaryTopic: “HealthyRelationships” Relationshipsarecomplicatedbutoneofthemostrewardingthingsinlife Joinusto learnaboutsomehelpfulstrategiestohelpimprovethequalityofourrelationshipswithpartners,familymembers,andfriends MarchTopic: “EmotionRegulation” AprilTopic: “Mindfulness”
SALON | TUESDAY-FRIDAY | 10:00 AM-2:30 PM | FEE'S VARY
Licensed stylists, Caroline Sander and Karrie Eddington are here to serve you with professional salon services at affordable prices! Stop by on Tuesday - Friday or call them directly for an appointment. Caroline: 801-577-7594 | Karrie: 801-518-7295
GENEALOGY CLASS | EVERY TUESDAY | 12:30 PM | FREE | MUST SIGN UP AHEAD OF TIME
Riverton Family Search is here to help you navigate their extensive website and help you map out your family tree! Class is led by trained volunteers with a broad knowledge. Held in the computer lab. Sign up at the front desk.
SENIOR PROGRAMS CHOIR | PRACTICE EVERY MONDAY | 1:00 PM | FREE
Performances will be in February and May 2026! Led by Michelle Willis. Join in February to sing in the May performance!
TELL YOUR STORY | EVERY WEDNESDAY | 1:00 PM | FREE
Everyone has a story to tell! Join author GM Jarrard for help writeing your memoir for your future generations to enjoy
ADVICEFROMAROSE
Makenewbuds|Lookpastthethorns Enjoythesunshine|Bloom! Becolorful|Makesomeone’sday Bescent-sational!
MONTHLY STAFF SPOTLIGHT: WATERCOLOR INSTRUCTOR
GWEN HAWLEY
Born and raised in Southern California, I was always more interested in the arts and English than math and other subjects My grades always reflected how interesting the teacher made the subject Because of those influences, I was able to pull decent grades in subjects like Egyptian history and science, but mostly, my better grades were in English and Art related subjects.
I was awarded a summer scholarship to Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, where we went to local parks, water interests, and the like Later, in my twenties, I took some high school extension classes in plein air watercolor painting, as well as portraiture in pastels while living several years in Northern California
Various circumstances brought me back to Southern California with my two school age children, a great dane, and a small lab packed into a station wagon. I remained in Southern California to raise my son and daughter working for a newspaper in classified ad sales. I’ve been co-owner of a restaurant/catering business in Burbank, California; a sales representative for a home warranty company; and sold yellow page advertising for a local phone book publisher. I was hired assistant marketing director for a Los Angeles Law Book publisher, becoming marketing director after three years. I tired of the glass ceiling and after a time thinking of where to go from there, working as Jack of all Trades for a large Catholic church in Sherman Oaks, CA
I really think ALL of these jobs over the years have shaped me into what I have become: a teacher of watercolor painting here at the South Jordan Community Center
Clearly I had little time for painting during my early years, and didn’t take it up again until I moved to South Jordan with my mother in 1995 to join other family members who had previously settled here In time, I started going to the South Jordan Community Center one day a week for watercolor classes with Sandi Olson, from whom I took over the class as teacher circa 2014. I’ve never regretted that decision, even though I was scared to death to say “yes”. Encouragement from friends and mentors helped me gain confidence. My first class has 16 people in it! I’d never really taught in my life, but after the first 10 minutes of it I knew I could do it! Students started to listen to me, watch my techniques, and learn to relax and enjoy watercolor painting I’ve sold and shown my work on occasion, but I’m not as young as I used to be, so working too hard at it would not only be tiring, but it would make true “work” of what I so enjoy doing Right now it’s NEVER a job!
My classes have grown into large groups, and I’ve marveled at the progress of students who have previously painted little or not at all, let alone in watercolors I am not a conventional teacher of this subject I employ a very relaxed method, not intended to prepare or propel fellow students into the art world, but for enjoyment
I have a great group of seniors, many of whom I’ve had in class for years Good friendships have developed here I’ve always said to my classes, “If you’re not having fun, you’re in the wrong place.” No judgement - just encouragement. Classes are held each Friday of the month from 10:00 AM to noon, usually in the large central room of the center.
I look forward to having you join us!
BRIDGE CAFÉ
This month, welcoming the City Managers Office & City Council! Friday, February 6 11:30 AM
This is a collaboration between American Academy of Innovation, Senior Programs, and South Jordan City operations Once a month during lunch we will invite students and SoJo City workers to lunch where we can talk about what happens in a particular city department We will answer questions and develop relationships to build bridges between generations and city involvement.
Salon & Barber Services
Licensed stylists, Caroline Sander and Karrie Eddington are here to serve you with professional salon services at affordable prices! Walk-ins welcome, upon availability. Appointments encouraged Stop by and pick up a price list and see all the added services!
VALENTINE LUNCH
Friday, February 13 | 11:30 AM entertainment by SoJo Senior Programs Choir
Celebrate with us over lunch and entertainment by our very own choir! A small boutique will be available from 10:00 AM while supplies last. Sign up in the office.
LUNAR NEW YEAR LUNAR NEW YEAR
Tuesday, February 17 | 11:30 AM
Join us for a time of encouragement, well wishes, and good fortune! 2026ISTHEYEAROFTHEHORSE SYMBOLIZINGSTRENGTH, INDEPENDENCE,ANDALIVELYSPIRIT!
SIgn up in the office
ROOTING FOR OUR COMMUNITY
Saturday, February 28 11:00 AM
W g up with American Academy of Innovation yet again! This time we are the recipients of a gift of growth! Students are learning about the hidden lives of trees and becoming environmental stewards and community connectors. Students will share their projects at a community meet-up and donate symbolizing hope, growth, and c
Join us for this meet up and go
COMING UP IN MARCH
AARP Tax Help | every Thursday until April 9
TRIP: Ogden Union Station Museum Tour | Thursday, March 5 | 10:00 AM | admission: $3 + money for lunch
Cell Phone Help: Friday, March 6 | 10:30 AM | *Sign up in the office
Bridge Café | Friday, March 6 | 11:30 AM | Meet with students and different city departments each month over lunch to foster connection between residents and city operations March we welcome Public Works
Free Hearing Testing: Tuesday, March 10| 9:30-12:30 | *Appointment required
EVENT: St Patrick’s Day Lunch| Tuesday, March 17 | 11:30 AM
Coins with Gene: Tuesday, March 17 | 10:00 AM
Bird Connection Social: Friday, March 20 | 10:30 AM | Connecting Generations through Mental Health, a collaboration with American Academy of Innovation
Senior Advisory Committee Meeting: Monday, March 30 | 11:00 AM
Free Legal Consultations with Elysium Legal: Tuesday, March 24 | 10:30 AM | *Appointment required
Earth Day Clothing Exchange & Boutique: Wednesday, April 22 | 9:00-1:00 PM | register to be a vendor!
TRIP: MOMIX: Alice at Kingsbury Hall | Thursday, March 26 | 10:00 AM | admission: $4 + money for lunch
TAX HELP
Tax Aide
February 5-April 9
Every Thursday from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Appointment Required
Make appointment at the Community Center front desk or call 801-302-1222 or 801-253-5203 ext. 1102
VITA
(Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)
February 5-April 11
Every Thursday from 5:00-7:30 PM
Every Saturday from 8:00-10:30 AM
Appointment Required
Make your appointment at www.taxhelput.org
