55+ Connections: Week of 11/10/24

This is the 55+ Connections weekly update. If you would like to sign up to get more updates from the city go to northlibertyiowa.org/subscribe. 

There is now a paper version of this newsletter available at the library! 

Veterans Day Free Meals 

Monday, November 11 

A special thank you, this Veterans Day, to all who have served. North Liberty city government buildings will remain open (library, rec center, city hall). 

Here are some local organizations that are providing free meals on Monday, November 11th: 

• Hy-Vee will have a free dine-in breakfast for veterans and active-duty military members from 6 – 10 AM. Veterans and active-duty military members will also receive a 15% discount on groceries that day. 

• Club 76 The Lodge (North Liberty) is offering a free lunch to veterans and their families from 11:30 AM – 2 PM, hosted by the North Liberty American Legion Auxiliary. 

• At Big Grove Brewery veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star family members get a free meal from the featured menu at any Big Grove location from 11 AM – 9 PM. 

• Applebee’s (Cedar Rapids/Coralville) is offering a free meal for veterans from a select menu during regular hours. Veterans will also receive a $5 Bounce Back card for a future visit within a 3-week redemption window. 

• At Chicken Salad Chick (Coralville) Service members in uniform or with a valid military ID will receive a free Chick Meal and drink. 

• Chili’s (Cedar Rapids/Coralville) is offering a free meal for veterans and active military members. 

• At Olive Garden (Cedar Rapids/Coralville) Veterans and active-duty servicemembers can get a free entree with a valid military ID. 

• Texas Roadhouse is offering veterans and active-duty service members a free meal voucher from 11 AM to 2 PM. These are redeemable for dine-in or carry out meal off a select menu through May 2025. Bring your valid military ID or proof of service to participate.

55+ Connections: Tuesday Gathering 

Tuesday, November 12 

10:30 AM 

North Liberty Library – Meeting Room CD 

Get ready for the cold weather holidays with a cozy yarn wreath! We’ll have all of the necessary supplies, but if you have some of your own yarn you want to use, feel free to bring it! 

Join us each week for a social gathering full of activities and friendly conversation – board games, puzzles, art, book discussions, and more! No registration required.   

Living Room Conversations: Political Peace Building 

Thursday, November 14 

6:00 PM 

North Liberty Library – Meeting Room BCD 

Join us for an engaging Living Room Conversation the process of building peace with one another following a national election. The event will be held at the North Liberty Library on Thursday, November 14th from 6-8pm. This thought-provoking event aims to promote open dialogue and active listening to build bridges and learn from one another. Participants will explore personal experiences and perspectives in a respectful environment, fostering skills to tackle complex topics while suspending judgments. Register. 

55+ Connections: Friday Lunch  

Friday, November 15 

11:30 AM 

North Liberty Rec Center – Classrooms 3 & 4 

We’ll be having Marco’s Pizza this week with a variety of toppings. After lunch, we’ll play a few rounds of Bingo. Please note, our city photographer will be snapping some photos of lunch this day for the city website/social media. Registration for lunch is $5 and required for all who attend lunch. Participants must register before noon on Thursday, November 14th. Call the Rec Center to register (319)626-5716 or go online to your RecDesk Account and register yourself. 

Club 24 

Monday, November 18th 

6 PM 

North Liberty Rec Center 

CLUB 24 is a program for adults and seniors to socialize over University of Iowa Athletics.
Patrons can sign up online, over the phone, or in person at the Community Center. 

On November 18th we’ll be watching the Iowa vs. Maryland game. 

An Evening of Learning and Discussion with Ben Greene 

Monday, November 18 

6 PM 

North Liberty Library – Meeting Room BCD 

Join us for an evening of discussion with Ben Greene, a renowned transgender advocate and educator. After coming out at 15 in a small town, Ben has dedicated his career to spreading empathy, education, and storytelling around the transgender experience. Ben has recently published My Child is Trans, Now What? A Joy-Centered Approach to Support. This event is a fireside chat format beginning with a short presentation and then discussing audience questions. Registration is required and can be done here. 

English as a Second Language Class 

Mondays 

6 PM 

North Liberty Library – Meeting Rooms 

Are you looking to improve your English in a relaxed and supportive environment? Our Conversational English Group is now evolving into an English as a Second Language (ESL) class, and we’d love for you to join us!  What to expect: 

Casual Atmosphere: Enjoy learning in a low-key, friendly setting 

Interactive Sessions: Practice speaking, listening, and understanding English through engaging activities 

Supportive Community: Connect with others who are also learning English and share your experiences. 

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our ESL class is here to help you on your language journey.  Come and join us at the library for a fun and educational experience!