Mondays
Youth Open Gym Basketball
Registered participants can sharpen their basketball skills and enjoy friendly pickup games with peers in a welcoming, non-competitive environment for all skill levels. Space is limited. Be sure to change into basketball shoes to keep the court clean and safe.
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Register online or in-person with a parent. Must register for the entire session. Daily drop-ins not accepted. No Refunds. Dates, times, and fees are subject to change without notice.
Grades 7 – 9
Dates: Mondays & Thursdays, March 31 – May 29 (No gym 5/26)
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Fee: $30 Resident/$40 Non-Resident
Jacobs Ladder Boxing Basics (Adaptive)
A 60-minute program that teaches the basics of boxing: stance, punches, conditioning, footwork, combinations. It is about individual development; not sparring. This program is for youth ages 15+ and adults with special needs.
Instructors: Boxing & fitness instructors from Jacob’s Ladder Fitness
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Mondays, April 7
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: $15 Resident/$30 Non-Resident
Chess Club
Participants will learn basic rules and principles, tactical themes, and checkmate patterns in a supportive setting. Sessions will include interactive lectures, supervised open play and problem solving exercises. Chess sets and worksheets are provided, players of all abilities welcome. Grades K-8.
Instructor: Staff from Progress with Chess, Cleveland area’s premier chess teaching organization
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Dates: Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Fee: $20 Resident/$30 Non-Resident
Jacobs Ladder Special Needs Fitness (Adaptive)
Experience a 60-minute exercise class packed with stretching, planking, and callisthenics like jumping jacks, squats, lunges, and push-ups. Engage in fun and effective drills using weighted balls, resistance bands, agility tools, and fitness ropes. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and a yoga mat or towel. Ages 15+
Instructors: Boxing & fitness instructors from Jacob’s Ladder Fitness
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Mondays, April 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: $10 Resident/$25 Non-Resident
Local Motion with Jaki: Aerobic Line Dancing
POPULAR! This upbeat program will have you sweating and smiling as you enjoy a fun cardio workout to a mix of club and urban dance beats. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, you’ll love the energy and excitement of this dance party!
Instructor: Jaki Ward
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Mondays, March 3 – May 19 (No class 5/5)
Time: 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm
Fee per class: $6 Bedford Resident/$7 Non-Resident
Free to Senior Club Members, must register in advance
Little Artists
Little Artists is a fun, creative experience for your preschooler to learn about color, shapes, and texture while experimenting with various art materials. Each monthly class will have a story and special seasonal project. Dress to get messy! All supplies included. Ages 3-5
Instructor: Recreation Staff and/or Senior Club volunteers
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Time: 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Fee per class: Free for Resident/$5 Non-Resident
Easter Egg Theme – Monday, April 14
Canvas Painting (Adaptive)
Melinda from So-So Artsy will give step-by-step instructions to create a beautiful painting. All supplies included. No experience required. This will be creative and fun! Ages 14+
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: $5 Resident/$10 Non-Resident
Spring Bunny — Monday, April 14
Mind Challenge for the New Majority
Mind Challenge for The New Majority® is a regional trivia competition for the active 50 years and over community to compete for prizes, money for our senior program and bragging rights. Bedford Parks & Recreation will sponsor one or more teams to represent our senior program. Teams consist of 4 – 6 players. Our team(s) will be in the “Central” division, competing against other communities such as Bedford Heights, Maple Heights, and Warrensville Heights.
Team Formation and Practice Round:
Monday, April 28, 9:30am at Bedford Heights Community Center
Mind Challenge Competition Dates, Times & Locations:
Central Region Play – Monday, May 5, 1:00pm at Bedford Heights Community Center. Additional dates if our team(s) advances.
Program Fee: Free, pre-registration required
Tuesdays
Parent & Child Open Gym Play
This program builds your child’s gross motor, creativity, spatial awareness and coordination through play and movement. Meet other local parents and share ideas and support. Ages 2 – 5. This program is led by a volunteer and/ or parents
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Fee: Free
Youth Open Gym Basketball
Registered participants can sharpen their basketball skills and enjoy friendly pickup games with peers in a welcoming, non-competitive environment for all skill levels. Space is limited. Be sure to change into basketball shoes to keep the court clean and safe.
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Register online or in-person with a parent. Must register for the entire session. Daily drop-ins not accepted. No Refunds. Dates, times, and fees are subject to change without notice.
Grades 4 – 6
Dates: Tuesdays, April 1 – May 27 (No gym 5/6)
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Fee: $15 Resident/$25 Non-Resident
Grades 10 – 12
Dates: Tuesdays, April 1 – May 27 (No gym 5/6)
Time: 7:15 pm – 8:30 pm
Fee: $15 Resident/$25 Non-Resident
Job Applications & Interview Techniques
Will you be looking for a summer job? Practice how to properly fill out a job or volunteer application. Gain strategies on how to answer typical interview questions and learn how to make a dynamic first impression. Grades 7 – 12
Instructor: Sarah Gnoddie, Recreation Coordinator
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 1
Date: Tuesday, April 8
Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Fee: Free, pre-registration required
Sunset Serenity Yoga
This program offers a calming and restorative practice designed to help you unwind and reflect as the day transitions into evening. It includes gentle, slow-paced poses and stretches that focus on releasing tension and promoting relaxation. The session concludes with deep relaxation and meditation to help you find inner peace, making it an ideal way to end your day. The class is adaptable to various fitness levels, ensuring a safe and inclusive space for all participants. Bring a yoga mat.
Instructor: Julionne Brown-Little, certified instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym or Room 4
Dates: Tuesdays, March 4 – May 27 (No class 5/6)
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Fee per class: $9 Resident/$11 Non-Resident
Free to Senior Club Members, must register in advance
Inspired by Josie: Monthly Art Fun
NEW! Each month we will explore an art medium that is inspired by the season/holiday. Students will be guided through creating a piece of art and expand their creativity. Grades K – 5
Instructor: Josie Spoto, Art graduate and instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
Fee per class: $5 Resident/$7 Non-Resident
Tissue Paper Stained Glass – Tuesday, April 8
Home Repair Workshops
NEW! We are partnering with the Home Repair Resource Center to provide Bedford residents with valuable skills and knowledge to tackle common household repairs. Home Repair Resource Center provides instruction, tools, and resources that enable homeowners to repair and maintain their own homes economically. Home Repair Resource Center also offers a Tool Library
of 7-day rentals of over 1000 tools for a $25 yearly fee! To learn more, visit: https://hrrc-ch.org/. Presented by Home Repair Resource Center
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fee per Workshop: $5 Resident/$8 Non-Resident
Plumbing Basics: Tuesday, April 8
Students learn the essentials of plumbing maintenance, including fixing leaks, unclogging drains, and replacing fixtures.
Billiards Basics: Learn How to Play Pool
NEW! Beginners will learn the rules and etiquette of the game, proper stance and grip, and the essential techniques for accurate aiming and controlled shots. Through hands-on practice and friendly guidance, beginners will gain confidence in handling the cue, understanding ball trajectories, and executing basic shots. Intermediate level players will learn how to plan shots, control the cue ball, and anticipate opponent moves. Equipment provided during class. Class size is limited. Additional time slots may be added to accommodate more participants.
Instructor: Tony Love, Kool Pool & Chess Club owner and two-time National Champion
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 2
Dates: Tuesdays, March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 15, 22
Grades 4+ Time: 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm
Adults & Teens Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Fee per Session: $30 Resident/$40 Non-Resident
Downsizing & Decluttering
NEW! If you’re ready to tackle unwanted items in your home, join us for AARP’s Downsizing and Decluttering program. Discover helpful organizing tips and learn how simplifying your space can lead to a happier, less stressed, and more productive life. At this free event, you’ll explore:
— How to begin your decluttering and organizing journey
— Practical strategies for simplifying your space
— The positive impact better organization can have on your daily life
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Date: Tuesday, April 22
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Fee: Free, pre-registration required
Climate Change & Single-Use Plastics: Make a DIY T-Shirt Bag
NEW! Discover the connection between single-use plastics and climate change in this engaging presentation. Learn about:
— An overview of climate change and its impact on Northeast Ohio and the Great Lakes.
— A brief history of plastics and how their entire life cycle contributes to climate change.
— Practical actions you can take to address this growing issue.
Following the presentation, take part in a hands-on workshop to create no-sew reusable bags from old t-shirts. Bring your own unused, stained, or unwanted t-shirt, or use one provided during the workshop.
Presented by Katharyne Starinsky, Program Officer from the Cuyahoga County Department of Sustainability.
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Date: Tuesday, April 29
Time: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee: Free, pre-registration required
Painting w/ So-So Artsy
Join Melinda with So-So Artsy for canvas painting. Participants follow step- by-step instructions to recreate a painting. No experience required. All supplies included. This program is for adults & older teens unless indicated otherwise.
Instructor: Melinda, So-So Artsy
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: $25 per painting; $45 per porch leaner
Whimsical Tree — Tuesday, April 15
Rainbow Petals — Tuesday, April 29
Wednesdays
Healthy Living for the Brain and Body
NEW! This program offers science-based recommendations about taking care of our brains and bodies. While there are currently no proven methods to prevent cognitive decline or dementia, research has shown that we can take action to reduce our risk of developing it and help maintain or potentially improve overall health. Lunch will be provided, please indicate if you need a vegetarian option.
Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association
Menu: Rascal House wraps (chicken, Italian, veggie) and salad
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Date: Wednesday, April 16
Time: 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fee: Free, pre-registration required for lunch
LUNCH & LEARN SERIES
Join us for lunch and a great historic presentation. Lunch will be served promptly at noon and the
presentation will start at 12:30 pm. Doors open at 11:30 am. Deadline for these programs will be the Friday before the program or until all seats are sold. There will be limited seating and registration is required for these presentations. Walk-ins will not be accepted. More information and lunch menus are available online or inquire with Recreation office.
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Fee per Program: Free to Bedford Senior Club members, $15 for non-members
Ghoulardi: Cleveland’s King of Cool — Wednesday, April 2
Exploring STEAM Workshops
NEW PROJECTS! Step into the world of endless possibilities with our Exploring STEAM workshops! These workshops are designed to inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and ignite a passion for learning in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Each workshop encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration on an exciting project. All sessions are hands-on and do not require previous coding or circuit experience.
Instructor: Matt Skvasik, STEAM and technology instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Grades K – 2 Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Grades 3 – 6 Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee per Workshop: $5 Resident/$7 Non-Resident
Workshops for Grades 3-6:
Code a Video Game: Wednesday, April 9 — Use SCRATCH to code your own Pong style video game.
Intro to AI-Generated Art & Video: DALL-E & Sora for Beginners
NEW! Discover the exciting world of AI-generated creativity in this beginner- friendly class! Learn how to use DALL-E to create stunning images from simple text prompts and explore Sora, OpenAI’s powerful AI video generator. We’ll cover the basics of crafting effective prompts, understanding AI-generated visuals, and practical applications for personal and professional projects. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and imagination! Bring your own smart device or laptop to use. We also have a limited amount of chromebooks to share.
Instructor: Heather Rhoades, Digital Content Extraordinaire
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Evening Date & Time: Wednesday, April 23, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: Free; pre-registration preferred
Brick Builders Club
NEW! Unleash your creativity and explore the world of LEGO® in our monthly meet up! In this fun and interactive club, participants work individually or in teams to complete building challenges, share ideas, and bring their imaginations to life. Perfect for builders of all skill levels, this program encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and endless creativity. All materials are provided during class. Grades K-5
Instructor: Matt Skvasik, STEAM and technology instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 3
Dates: Last Wednesday of the Month, April 30, May 28
Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Fee: $20 Resident/$25 Non-Resident
Chair Yoga Flow
Embark on a journey of gentle movement and relaxation. Seated comfortably in a chair or using it as a prop, participants will experience the rejuvenating effects of yoga postures, stretches, and breathwork in a supportive and inclusive environment. The nature of this class ensures that individuals with varying physical abilities can comfortably participate. Bring a yoga mat. Yoga blocks and bands can be borrowed from the instructor.
Instructor: Yvonne Williams, certified Yoga instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Dates: Wednesdays, March 5 – May 28 (No class 4/2)
Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Fee per class: $9 Resident/$10 Non-Resident
Free to Senior Club Members, must register in advance
Thursdays
UH Walking Club
Join neighbors for a morning of walking and talking to decrease stress, increase endurance, strengthen bones, manage your weight, and improve overall health. A workout for the mind, body and soul. Call UH Age Well Be Well at 440-735-2559 to register.
Location: Ellenwood Center Archibald Willard Pavilion (walking inside in inclement weather)
Dates: Thursdays
Time: 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Fee: Free
Beginner Pickleball Lessons
Pickleball is a fun sport that combines traditional elements of tennis with a wiffle-style ball and paddle on a smaller court. Players will learn the fundamental rules, basic skills and court positioning for singles and doubles play. Equipment provided during class.
Instructor: Rich Abston, certified Pickleball instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Gymnasium
Spring Session 2 Dates: Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Fee per session: Free to Bedford Senior Club members/$20 for non-members per session
Level-Up Legends: Video Game Club
Calling all young gamers to join our club where we will engage in friendly competitions and develop valuable gaming and social skills. Foster teamwork and camaraderie through cooperative gaming experiences! This club is designed to be a positive and inclusive space where young gamers of any level can connect and learn from each other. We will rotate play on Nintendo Switches and Roblox. No equipment is required in order to join. Grades 3-6
Instructor: Matt Skvasik, STEAM and technology instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 1
Spring Session 1 Remaining Dates: Thursdays, April 3, 10
Spring Session 2 Dates: Thursdays, April 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Time: 5:30 pm – 6:45 pm
Fee per Session: $15 Resident/$20 Non-Resident
Barre Above®
Experience a dynamic and empowering workout that combines elements of Pilates, yoga, and dance strength training. Elevate your fitness routine and sculpt your body in a motivating group fitness class. Suitable for participants of all fitness levels; the class is designed to be adaptable, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Bring a yoga mat.
Instructor: Julionne Brown-Little, certified instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Thursdays, March 6 – May 29 (No class 4/17)
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Fee per class: $9 Bedford Resident/$11 Non-Resident
Free to Senior Club Members, must register in advance
Video Gaming (Adaptive)
NEW! Hang out and enjoy non-competitive weekly video game play on Nintendo Switch game systems and Roblox with rotating game offerings geared for an adaptive audience. Ages 15+
Instructor: Matt Skvasik, STEAM and technology instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 1
Spring Session 1 Remaining Dates: Thursdays, April 3, 10
Spring Session 2 Dates: Thursdays, April 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee per Session: $15 Resident/$30 Non-Resident
Adult Basketball
We are pleased to continue our adult basketball program this spring, which will take place in a pickup format, led by a contracted facilitator. The program is limited to the first 12 registered participants. Participants must register for the entire 8-week session. The gym will only be open to pre- registered participants (no day-of registration, no guests or spectators).
Facilitator: Justin Mitchell
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Dates: Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 May 1, 8
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee: $40 Resident/$50 Non-Resident
Priority registration for Bedford residents through February 28.
Space-permitting, non-residents may register beginning March 1.
Art Explorers
NEW PROJECTS! Each month in Art Explorers we will explore an art element, technique and medium that is inspired by the season, an artist or culture. Students will be guided through creating a piece of art and expand their creativity. Techniques covered may include printing, painting, textiles, collage, drawing and more! Grades K-5
Instructor: Tina Stradiot, homeschool art instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 10
Dates: Third Thursday of the month – April 17
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee per class: $5 Resident/$7 Non-Resident
Intro to AI-Generated Art & Video: DALL-E & Sora for Beginners
NEW! Discover the exciting world of AI-generated creativity in this beginner- friendly class! Learn how to use DALL-E to create stunning images from simple text prompts and explore Sora, OpenAI’s powerful AI video generator. We’ll cover the basics of crafting effective prompts, understanding AI-generated visuals, and practical applications for personal and professional projects. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and imagination! Bring your own smart device or laptop to use. We also have a limited amount of chromebooks to share.
Instructor: Heather Rhoades, Digital Content Extraordinaire
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Daytime Date & Time: Thursday, April 24, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Fee: Free; pre-registration preferred
Fridays
Strength & Core
Strength and core is an intermediate class programmed to develop overall body strength. Participants will use various equipment for resistance training for the first half of class and then do mat Pilates for core conditioning. Participants must be able to get themselves down to the floor and back up, with assistance if needed.
Instructor: Tony Binkowski, Functional Aging Specialist
Location: Ellenwood Center Gymnasium
Dates: Fridays, March 7 – May 30 (No class 4/18)
Time: 10:45 am – 11:30 am
Fee per class: $6 Resident/$7 Non-Resident
Bedford Senior Club Members are free and must register in advance
Foil Fencing
Learn the fundamentals of foil fencing. Fencing improves hand-eye coordination, agility, dexterity, and stamina, as well as develops social skills and manners. Classes include stretching, footwork, lunges, attack, parry-riposte, strategy, tactics, techniques and bouting. All equipment is provided during class. Ages 8 and older.
Instructor: Tom Nagy, Head Coach ON TARGET Fencing Team, Member of USFA
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Spring Session 1 Remaining Dates: Fridays, April 4
Spring Session 2 Dates: Fridays, April 25, May 2, 16, 23, 30 (No class 5/9)
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: $45 Resident/$55 Non-Resident
Light Up the Night: Mother & Son GLOW Dance
Wear white or neon colors and join us for an unforgettable evening that provides special time for mothers and sons! This special GLOW event includes a black light dance floor, music from Terry Macklin Entertainment, refreshments, glow sticks and photo station. Boys in Grades K-5 and their mother/grandmother/aunt/special adult
Location: Ellenwood Center Gym
Date: Friday, April 11
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Fee: $15 per couple, $5 per extra child
Block It Out
NEW! From blocking out distractions to mastering self-defense techniques, kids are guided through sessions by Two Tigers Kung Fu instructor Robert Fleming. This program promotes resiliency, confidence and the skills and strategy to protect yourself. Ages 6+
Instructor: Robert Fleming, Two Tigers Kung Fu Academy
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Dates: Fridays, April 25, May 2
Time: 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm
Fee: $20 Resident/$25 Non-Resident
Tai Chi
Learn basic movements and techniques to increase energy level, improve balance and coordination, and build leg and core strength. Through training in these exercises, you will become stronger, healthier, and safer.
Instructor: Robert Fleming, Two Tigers Kung Fu Academy
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4
Dates: Fridays, April 4, 25, May 2, 16 (No class 4/11, 4/18, 5/9)
Time: 5:30 pm – 6:15 pm
Fee: $65 Resident/$75 Non-Resident
Bedford Senior Club Members are free and must register in advance
Saturdays
Energizing Morning Yoga
NEW! Invigorate your body and mind, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Classes include a series of energizing poses, stretches, and breathwork techniques aimed at boosting your energy levels, improving flexibility, and enhancing mental clarity. The class is adaptable to various fitness levels, ensuring a safe and inclusive space for all participants. Bring a yoga mat. Pre-registration required.
Instructor: Julionne Brown-Little, certified instructor
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 4 or Gym
Dates: Saturdays, April 5, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17 (No class 4/12)
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Fee per class: $9 Resident/$11 Non-Resident
Free to Senior Club Members, must register in advance
Babysitting Class with UH
This course is designed to equip students with the skills they need to stay safe when home alone, caring for younger siblings, or babysitting. The class is packed with engaging games, demonstrations, and role-playing activities. Participants will learn essential skills like changing a diaper, following BEST routines for babysitters, and knowing when to call a backup adult or dial 911. Ages 11+
Instructor: Briana Price, Childhood Injury Prevention Coordinator at UH Rainbow
Location: Ellenwood Center Room 1
Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free, pre-registration required
Easter Egg Hunt
Children and grandchildren 12 years of age and younger are invited to join the Parks & Recreation Department,
family, and friends at this fun event. The Easter Bunny will be available throughout the event for photos. Bedford Residents Only.
Location: Bedford Bearcat Stadium, 481 Northfield Rd.
Date: Saturday, April 12
Time: Gates open at 9:45 am & Easter Egg Hunt starts at 10:00 am sharp
Fee: Free; pre-registration required
Registration will not be accepted the day of the event.
