What is APRIS? APRIS is a community service of Augustana Public Radio WVIK (90.3FM). It serves those with visual or physical impairments, who live within 45 miles of the Quad-Cities. Using a special radio receiver, APRIS provides these people free service of news read aloud from local and regional newspapers. Papers included are: The Quad-City Times, Dispatch/Argus, Chicago Tribune, Muscatine Journal, and Clinton Herald. In addition, the weekly publications of Orion and Geneseo, Morrison and Prophetstown; Erie and Aledo are read on a weekly basis.

Almost 200 volunteers are involved in the reading of these newspapers to provide the service to those in the Quad-Cities area, who have signed up for this remarkable benefit.

From local news to news of neighbors, obituaries to grocery ads, religious news to sports, one can stay connected to the community through this outstanding local radio reading service.

The receivers are loaned, free of charge, to the visually or physically impaired individuals, their families or caregivers. There is a daily schedule of the news readings, which air Monday through Friday. Please see the schedule published in this magazine (below).

To seek more information about this free program, please go to www.wvik.org or call (309) 794-7560 to request a receiver or gain more information.

Would you like to be that voice on the radio as a volunteer? APRIS could not operate without the many volunteers, who read the news routinely. This may be just the volunteer situation you were hoping to find. Wait no longer. Call (309) 794-7560 or email apris@wvik.org to ask how you can help today!

With all the news about eBooks, many wonder how digital reading affects libraries. The truth is that libraries are a part of the digital world, offering downloadable books to patrons as an additional choice. eBooks and audio titles join the many great choices in regular and large-print books, books on CD, Blu-Rays, DVDS, magazines, CDs and more to check out at your local library.

Libraries in Iowa and Illinois offer the OverDrive digital book and audio collection. In Illinois, the Rock Island Public Library and many others belong to the Online Media of Northern Illinois buying group. Known as Omni Libraries for short, the group offers access to more than 3,500 titles in digital format. Though this is a separate catalog from the RiverShare system, the digital buying group also allows member libraries to share resources and save money. Iowa libraries use the WILBOR consortium. As long as your library belongs to either group, you can check out digital books and audiobooks.

Checking out from a library represents a significant savings. Compatible devices include the Kindle and Kindle Fire, Sony® Reader, Kobo Readers, NOOK™, Android™, BlackBerry® and Windows® Phones, and many tablets, including the Mac iPad®. iPods® and iPhones® are also compatible. Titles can be enjoyed immediately or transferred to a portable device. Titles automatically expire at the end of the lending period, so there are no late fees.

Information about free OverDrive classes and links to online help are available at www.rockislandlibrary.org. To start downloading, take your library card to the nearest computer and click the OverDrive link.

Quad Cities Alzheimer’s Association A new Support Group for dementia care partners – A new support group is being planned. At the initial meeting the goal was to give everyone a chance to meet one another and to lay the foundation for the group going forward. The long range goal is to give participants a warm, welcoming, supporting place to share their experiences and stories with others who understand their journey. Please call Jerry Schroeder at (563) 324-1022 or 800-272-3900 for more information about programs.
QC Breast Cancer Support Group (Iowa): First Tuesday of each month, from noon to 1 pm, Trinity at Terrace Park, 4500 Utica Ridge Road, Bettendorf. (Illinois): Third Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 pm at Butterworth Center, 1105-8th Street, Moline For women dealing with breast cancer or survivors of breast cancer. You may attend either one or both. Cost: free. Information: call Pat Conway at (563) 355-7548.
CASI Caregiver Support Group: Second Monday of each month 11 am- 1 pm, CASI, 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport. Hosted by Susan Kivisto, from Alternatives for Older Adults & Karen Coats, from Generations Agency on Aging. Cost: free.
Diabetes Support Group at Genesis: First Tuesday of each month, 11 am to Noon, Larson Center, Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus, Silvis, IL Recommended for people with diabetes who are interested in receiving help with diabetes self-management. Cost: free. Registration: (309) 792-4389.
Grief Support Group – CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 9:30-11 am. Hosted by Vicky Ertel. Donation accepted.
Life After Loss Support Group - Genesis Medical Center, Illini This group will meet on Thursdays from 10 – 11 am. Facilitated by a member of the Genesis Medical Center, Illini Spiritual Care Department. New members may join at any time. Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus – Larson Center Lower Level – Wallen Room. Larson Center Lower Level – Wallen Room, Silvis, IL
Low Vision Support Group at CASI: the first Thursday of every month 10 am to noon. Hosted by Ben Lorenzen at CASI, 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA. Call (563) 386-7477 Ext. 231 for details or to register. Anyone with vision problems is welcome to attend..
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Support Group - A support group for people and family members with multiple sclerosis. The MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Support Group meets the 2nd Monday of every month at Genesis Medical Center West Campus Sunderbruch Room from 2-3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Anne Dalton at (563) 322-8709
Prostate Cancer: Us, Too, Greater Quad City Cancer Support Group – Support Group for those dealing with Prostate Cancer or who had prostate cancer. Group meets the 3rd Thursday of each month, except December from 7 – 9pm. Location alternates between Trinity Medical Center, 7th St. Campus and the Genesis Adler Health Education Center, 1236 E. Rusholme, Davenport. Call Bill for location information prior to attending: Bill, (309)-799-3621.
Stroke Support Group - The Genesis Stroke Support Group brings together stroke survivors and their families in an atmosphere of caring and sharing to assist recovery. This support group meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 2-3 pm. Genesis Plaza – 2535 Maplecrest Road, Suite 14, Bettendorf, IA
The VIP (Visually Impaired People) Support Group is facilitated by Al Ayew-ew of the Center for Independent Living, meets the first Tues. of every month at 2 pm at Lighthouse at Silvis-1900 10th St., Silvis, IL. (Call Heather at (309) 792-2800 for details or to register)
Parkinson’s Support Group – Saturday, Feb. 18, 10 a.m. – noon at CASI 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA, 52806 (563) 386-7477
Blood Pressure Checks at CASI Available in Genesis office: February dates and times: Wednesday, 1 & 15 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 6, 7, 8, 14, 21, 22, 27, 28, & 29 – 9 a.m. to noon; Monday, 13 & 20 – 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Dancing and Dance Classes

Line Dancing at CASI – every Tuesday morning 9 to 11 am. Cost: $2.
Advanced Line dancing at CASI – every Thursday afternoon from 2:30 – 4 p.m. Cost: Members $2 non-members $4.
Zumba Gold Class – At CASI will meet every Wednesday from
1 – 1:45 p.m. And Thursdays 9:45 – 10:30 a.m. Everyone can do it. It’s lower impact, easy to follow steps, Latin inspired dance fitness party. Come try Zumba Gold! Members $2 Non-members $4.
For more info call 386-7477
Zumba Basics - at CASI Mondays 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Members $2 Non-members $4. For more info call 386-7477
Plus 60 / CASI Valentine Dance and Party -Friday, Feb. 3, 2012. 7 – 10:30 p.m. Music by Michael Quaintance Trio. Tickets: $10 at CASI or QCTimes in advance or at the door. Cash Bar – Free snacks
Sweetheart Ball - Saturday, February 11 at CASI, 7 – 10 p.m. The Ken Paulsen Orchestra, $10 per person. Singles and beginners Welcome. For information, please call 563-391-2519

YOGA, Gentle Exercise, and Aquatic Exercise

Aquatic exercise at Three Rivers YMCA 2040 53rd Street, Moline. IL call (309) 797-3945 – MS exercise Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30–11:15 a.m. – Slow and easy water exercise Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:15 a.m. – 9 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.; 11:15 a.m. – noon; 5:15pm – 6 p.m. or Tuesday and Thursday 11:15 a.m. to noon
Gentle Exercise at CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport. Jan Dorgan, Mon., Wed. and Fri. 9 – 10 a.m. Call (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Tai Chi Wednesdays 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scott Caulpetzer instructor. New session starts on Feb. 22, 2012. Cost: $18 for 6 weeks. Call (563) 386-7477 for class schedule information.
Tai Chi for Arthritis at CASI - Instructor: Erica Heinrichs, Certified Senior Trainer – Mondays New Time: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Member Cost: $32 for 8 week class. Classes can be made up if you miss.
Chair Yoga at CASI - Mondays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Certified Instructor: Janet Darmour Cost: $30 for 6 weeks. Can start class at anytime.
Laughter Yoga at CASI - Thursday, 9:30-10:15 am. Free classes taught by certified Senior Star staff.

Book Clubs, Movies, Theater Trips and Speakers

Ballet Quad Cities presents Love Stories – What: Love Stories – Love on the Run! Who: Ballet Quad Cities Where: Augustana College Wallenburg Hall • Denkman Second Floor: 3520 7th Ave • Rock Island. When: February 17 at 8 p.m., February 18 at 2 p.m. & February 18 at 8 p.m. Ticket Prices: Adult – $20 / Senior – $15
Talk of the Town at CASI, 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA. None in December!!! Wednesday, Feb 15, Judy Morrell, head of the Davenport Civil Rights Commission. Eat at 11 a.m. Make your reservation now! 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.. Members free, non-members $2 to cover cost of pizza. Reservations needed -limited to 75 people. Sponsored by GolderCare Solutions. Make your reservation now!

Book Club at CASI Led by Jane Cronkelton,10 a.m. – noon on Fridays, February 3, 2012 “Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett, Part One – 1135-1136, Part Two – 1136-1137 Friday – March 2, 2012 “Pillars of Earth” by Ken Follett (Continued), Part Three – 1140-1142, Part Four – 1142-1145, Part Five – 1152-1155. For you faster readers or people who don’t want to tackle “Pillars of the Earth”, we will also discuss at “I Heard the Owl Call My Name” by Margaret Craven.
Movie Matinee at CASI Tuesday, February 21, 2012 starting at
1 pm., Dolphin Tale. $2 donation includes popcorn and beverage. Call (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Travelogue at CASI – Bucharest, Romania and Sinaia in the Romanian mountains with Elmer Brunk Monday, February 13, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.,
1 – 2 p.m. Members: Free tickets at front desk. Non Members: $1.00

Clinics and Classes

University of Illinois Extension’s Small Farms Webinar Series
University of Illinois Extension’s Small Farms/Local Foods Team has developed this series to help producers understand opportunities, challenges and recommendations in wide range of topics. The programs will take place via webinar with presenters on a live feed, giving attendees the opportunity to have their questions answered by the experts. The fee is $5 per session for public or $3 for Master Gardeners. Register :call (309) 756-9978.
The webinars will be offered at 1:00 p.m.
· Mercer County Extension, 2106 SE Third Street, Aledo, IL
· Rock Island County Extension, 321 West 2nd Ave., Milan, IL
Soil Fertility Thurs., Feb 9: Learn the basics of soil fertility—what nutrients are needed, what role do they serve, which present potential environmental problems, and which tend to become deficient. Can you conduct a soil test on your own? What organic amendments tend to be the best source of essential nutrients? These and other topics will be covered during a general overview of soil science. Matthew Montgomery-Small Farms/Local Foods Extension Educator
Raising Sheep and Goats On Small Farms, Thurs., Feb 16: There are many reasons for raising either sheep or goats, whether the motivation is economic, environmental concerns, and/or quality of life. Consideration of raising these livestock will be discussed with special attention paid to issues affecting production including nutrition, health, pasture management, predator control, housing, and marketing. Dr. James Theuri- Small Farms/Local Foods Extension Educator
Methods for Extending the Growing Season Thurs., Feb 23: Learn about the variety of methods growers can utilize to extend the lengths of the growing season. The ability to market produce earlier or later than your competition has economic advantages. Learn about season extensions in a variety of designs, from simple to complex. Michael Roegge- Small Farms/Local Foods Extension
Foot Clinics at CASI By appt only. Genesis Foot Clinic provided by Genesis VNA.Call (563) 320-3978 to schedule your appointment ath the Genesis office at CASI. Cost $20. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. February Dates and Times: 2, 13, 16, 20, 24 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.; 2, 6, 20, 28 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program) Clinic at CASI, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays Genesis Office, 9–11 a.m.

Sports, Cards and Games

Trivia Night in LeClaire – Saturday, Feb. 11, LeClaire Fire Assn Trivia Night benefiting 9/11 Memorial Fund & Saturday, Feb. 18 LeClaire Trivia Night for LeClaire Little League. For more info call Donna (LeClaire Tourism) (563) 528-0810
BQC Bowling to Banish Bullies - Who: Ballet Quad Cities, When: February 4 6 to 10:30 p.m., Where: Blackhawk Bowl and Martini Lounge At The Hotel Blackhawk, 200 E. 3rd Street Davenport, IA 52801. Ticket Prices: $10 for spectators at door,$40 per person/$240 per team for more info, contact Joedy @ (309) 786-3779
Ticket Purchase: Send a check to Ballet Quad Cities 613 17th Street Rock Island, IL 61201
Shuffleboard at CASI: Monday 2:15–3:45 pm $2 for Member. Mary Anne Maxwell
Wii at CASI Play Wii sports. The Wii is free!! Up to 4 players available whenever room is open.
Cards at CASI – Pinochle – Monday, Tuesday,, Wednesday & Friday, – 1–3:45 pm; Bridge – Monday and Friday 12:30–3:45 pm; Euchre – Thursday and Friday 1 – 3:45 pm; Canasta – Tuesday 1 – 3 pm; Cribbage – Wednesday 1 – 3 pm. All games are $2 Member at Center for Active Seniors, Inc. (CASI) 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Call CASI at (563) 386-7477 for more info.
Bingo at CASI Fridays at 12:30 pm. Sandwiches and snacks available at Eleanor’s Café. Until 1 pm.

Arts, Crafts, Knitting and Sewing

Beginning Ceramics at CASI Monday 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Verdene Franklin. Member cost: $5 per class.
All Day Ceramics 9:30 a.m. – Noon- Lunch – 1 – 3 p.m. with Dar Hanssen Cost: $5 per class in the morning, $8 all day Class size is limited. Call CASI at (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Crochet and Knitting at CASI – Tuesdays 12:30 – 2:20 pm. Make hats, scarves and mittens to be donated. We will teach beginners to crochet.
Sewing Ugly Quilts at CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road Every Tue 8-11 pm. No charge.
CASI Art Classes – Call (563) 386 7477 Art Class with Betty Felder.
Drawing & Clay Sculpting Instructor: Paul Aglueseva, Thursdays, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Cost: $5.00 + materials; Monday evening, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Cost: $6.00 + materials. CASI 1035 W. Kimberly Rd, Davenport, (563) 386-7477.

Other Events

Live Music for Brunch at Brady Street Chop House - Every Sunday 10 am – 1 pm– at the Brady Street Chop House at RADISSON QUAD CITY PLAZA Phone: (563) 322-2200 Website: http://www.radisson.com/davenport-hotel-ia-52801/iadaven
Monthly All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. $6.00 per person on Sunday, February 5, 2012 American Legion – 702 W. 35th Street – Davenport, IA. Variety Music 8 -11 a.m. by Freddie Steenbock Duo
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Want your organization or event listed on this page? Send information to us by email to: publisher@50pluslife.com (Information due by the 10th of each month!

By Joe Hutter

It might be a new year, but scams are still with us. We all have to remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Recently Sheriff Dennis Conard released information on a scam about a letter being sent to people to be paid consumer researchers. The letter states that you have been selected to participate. They use the names of different legitimate research companies such as Polaris Marketing Research. They send a check for over $1,000 dollars, and you have to call a telephone number to activate the check. You give them your bank name and account number, and they can take your money out of your account. The bottom part of the letter requires that you not talk to your bank or any staff people of the stores, as this would violate a business code of conduct. The address and names used in the letter are out of the United States, and the research consultant uses a New York City address. If you receive a letter such as this, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Again, DO NOT give out any personal information over the phone.

I know many of you enjoyed the Senior Voice Program on December 1, at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds and the program put on for seniors by the City of Bettendorf at the Quad-City Waterfront Convention Center. August 2, 2012 will be Senior Day at the Mississippi Valley Fair this year.

If you know of a place that would like to have copies of 50+ Lifestyles to distribute, let them know at (563) 484-4195 or publisher@50pluslife.com.

On behalf of members of our S.A.L.T. (Seniors And Law enforcement Together) program, we wish you a very happy new year! You are welcome to come to our meetings at CASI no matter where you live. Call Pam at (563) 326-8217 for more information.

Take care.

In the U.S., more than two million individuals are estimated to be living with glaucoma, and that number is expected to increase by 50 percent, to more than three million, by 2020. Glaucoma is an eye disease typically characterized by elevated pressure in the eye, that causes damage to the optic nerve and defects in the field of vision. The increase in eye pressure is caused by a reduction in the ability of fluid to drain from the eye. The cause of this blockage is unknown. However, as eye pressure increases, nerve cells which carry the information we require to see are damaged and gradually begin to die. As these nerve fibers or cells die, loss of vision begins. Usually, peripheral vision or “side” vision is lost first. This often goes unnoticed. Ultimately, central or reading vision is affected. Blindness caused by glaucoma occurs in thousands of people every year and is the most common cause of blindness in African-Americans.

Glaucoma can develop at any age in life from infancy through late life. However, it most often affects those 45 years of age or older. Those most at risk for development of glaucoma are those with one or more of the following: a family history of glaucoma, age over 45, African-American descent, and diabetes mellitus.

Regular dilated eye examinations are required for early detection of glaucoma. When detected early, treatment can generally control glaucoma and prevent loss of vision. During the exam, a painless test to measure eye pressure is performed. The structures of the eye are examined, including the optic nerve. Additionally, tests can be done to detect damage to the field of vision. Visual field tests measure light sensitivity of your eye. Damage to the optic nerve caused by glaucoma produces a distinct pattern of visual field loss. Doctors can use the visual field to detect and follow the course of glaucoma over time.

Some patients can develop glaucoma without ever having a high pressure. In other cases, individuals with elevated eye pressures may never develop glaucoma. Clearly, there are other factors than eye pressure which play a part in the development of disease. The only way to determine if your eye pressure is “normal” for you is by a thorough eye examination and monitoring.

Because glaucoma is a painless disease in most cases, patients are frequently unaware that they have a problem until significant visual loss has already occurred. It has been estimated that fully half of all those with glaucoma are unaware of their diagnosis. Unfortunately, visual loss caused by glaucoma is irreversible.

Current treatments include topical and/or oral medications, laser surgery or conventional surgery. The goal is to lower the eye pressure to help prevent further damage. Research is looking at the genetics of glaucoma, as well as examining certain neurotransmitters to determine the cause. Hopefully, this research will help identify the cause of glaucoma and improve methods of detection and treatment of this insidious and devastating disease.

Nikhil Wagle, M.D. joined Eye Surgeons Associates in 1999 as a glaucoma specialist and comprehensive ophthalmologist. He achieved a fellowship in glaucoma from Duke University Eye Center. Dr. Wagle is board certified and a diplomat of the American Board of Ophthalmology. He sees patients in our Silvis, Rock Island and Bettendorf offices. For more information visit www.esaeyecare.com.

By Debra Carney
Driver License Supervisor, Office of Driver Services
Davenport, Iowa

How can you tell who is a good driver? Someone who has had no tickets or accidents? Or is that person lucky? Do you have friends or family members who consider themselves good drivers yet you are afraid to ride with them? How about your own driving? Are there things you do to stay polished in your skills?

Cars have changed, so have traffic rules, driving conditions and the roads you travel every day.

As we age, our necessary skills for safe driving – vision, reflexes, flexibility and hearing have also changed. If you notice some of these natural age related changes you can adjust your driving habits to keep driving safely. It’s important to recognize your limitations and be aware of everything you can do to remain safely on the road.

Besides recognizing your limitations, you may wish to consider brushing up on your driving skills.

There are a number of programs designed to update you on current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to adjust your driving to those age related changes mentioned above. Many courses are available in both classroom and online settings. You may be eligible to receive an insurance discount upon completing the course, consult your insurance agent for details.

The following are a few of the courses available:

Mature Operator Course
AAA offers both classroom and online driver improvement courses, including a course designed for older drivers, the Mature Operator Course. Contact your local AAA club to find out about driving improvement courses available in your area. To reach your local AAA office, use your phone directory or call (407) 444-7000.

CarFit
Developed as a community-based activity, the CarFit program is designed to improve the “fit” between mature drivers and their vehicles followed by actions they can take to enhance comfort and safety behind the wheel. Developed in collaboration with the American Society on Aging, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, the program also provides an opportunity to open a positive, non-threatening conversation about older driver safety and wellness. In addition, CarFit offers specific, practical community resources to help older drivers maintain and strengthen their wellness to extend their safe, independent driving years. To obtain more information regarding CarFit go to their on line site at: www.car-fit.org/

SeniorDrivers.org

SeniorDrivers.org is a wonderful resource for seniors, their family, and researchers to find in-depth information about senior driving. The site offers screening programs to test driving skills, training programs to help seniors improve skills and information about alternative transportation options. It also has a searchable database containing state specific licensing information pertaining to senior drivers. Roadwise Review Online, DriveSharp brain training and other senior related brochures are all available through the site.

55 Alive
55 Alive is an inexpensive class for older drivers to increase their awareness of driving procedures. It also helps drivers become aware of changes in their physical or mental health and identify any future problems. Contact your local AARP chapter or community college to find out when you can sign up for a class.

Being a good driver means more than avoiding tickets and accidents. Everyone wants to continue driving for as long as possible, no one wants to be a threat to themselves or to others. How can you continue to drive safely?

Quad Cities Alzheimer’s Association Please call Jerry Schroeder at (563) 324-1022 or 800-272-3900 for more information about programs.
QC Breast Cancer Support Group (Iowa): First Tuesday of each month, from noon to 1 pm, Trinity at Terrace Park, 4500 Utica Ridge Road, Bettendorf. (Illinois): Third Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 pm at Butterworth Center, 1105-8th Street, Moline For women dealing with breast cancer or survivors of breast cancer. You may attend either one or both. Cost: free. Information: call Pat Conway at (563) 355-7548.
CASI Caregiver Support Group: Second Monday of each month 11 am- 1 pm, CASI, 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport. Hosted by Susan Kivisto, from Alternatives for Older Adults & Karen Coats, from Generations Agency on Aging. Cost: free.
Diabetes Support Group at Genesis: First Tuesday of each month, 11 am to Noon, Larson Center, Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus, Silvis, IL Recommended for people with diabetes who are interested in receiving help with diabetes self-management. Cost: free. Registration: (309) 792-4389.
Grief Support Group – CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 9:30-11 am. Hosted by Vicky Ertel. Donation accepted.
Life After Loss Support Group - Genesis Medical Center, Illini This group will meet on Thursdays from 10 – 11 am. Facilitated by a member of the Genesis Medical Center, Illini Spiritual Care Department. New members may join at any time. Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus – Larson Center Lower Level – Wallen Room. Larson Center Lower Level – Wallen Room, Silvis, IL
Low Vision Support Group at CASI: the first Thursday of every month 10 am to noon. Hosted by Ben Lorenzen at CASI, 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA. Call (563) 386-7477 Ext. 231 for details or to register. Anyone with vision problems is welcome to attend..
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Support Group - A support group for people and family members with multiple sclerosis. The MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Support Group meets the 2nd Monday of every month at Genesis Medical Center West Campus Sunderbruch Room from 2-3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Anne Dalton at (563) 322-8709
Prostate Cancer: Us, Too, Greater Quad City Cancer Support Group – Support Group for those dealing with Prostate Cancer or who had prostate cancer. Group meets the 3rd Thursday of each month, except December from 7 – 9pm. Location alternates between Trinity Medical Center, 7th St. Campus and the Genesis Adler Health Education Center, 1236 E. Rusholme, Davenport. Call Bill for location information prior to attending: Bill, (309)-799-3621.
Stroke Support Group – The Genesis Stroke Support Group brings together stroke survivors and their families in an atmosphere of caring and sharing to assist recovery. This support group meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 2-3 pm. Genesis Plaza – 2535 Maplecrest Road, Suite 14, Bettendorf, IA
The VIP (Visually Impaired People) Support Group is facilitated by Al Ayew-ew of the Center for Independent Living, meets the first Tues. of every month at 2 pm at Lighthouse at Silvis-1900 10th St., Silvis, IL. (Call Heather at (309) 792-2800 for details or to register)
Parkinson’s Support Group – Dec. 17, 2011, 10 a.m. – noon at CASI 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA, 52806 (563) 386-7477
Blood Pressure Checks at CASI Available in Genesis office: Tuesday and Thursday, 12:30-3:30 pm.; Wednesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm. Dr. Lynn Boelger will do blood pressure checks on Mondays from 11 am-12:30 pm. in the Fitness Center.

Dancing and Dance Classes
Line Dancing at CASI – every Tuesday morning 9 to 11 am. Cost: $2.

YOGA, Gentle Exercise, and Aquatic Exercise
Aquatic exercise at Three Rivers YMCA 2040 53rd Street, Moline. IL call (309) 797-3945 – MS exercise Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30–11:15 a.m. – Slow and easy water exercise Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:15 a.m. – 9 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.; 11:15 a.m. – noon; 5:15pm – 6 p.m. or Tuesday and Thursday 11:15 a.m. to noon
Gentle Exercise at CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport. Jan Dorgan, Mon., Wed. and Fri. 9 – 10 a.m. Call (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Chair Yoga at CASI – Mondays 1:30 – 2:20 pm Certified Instructor: Janet Darmour. Cost: $30 for 6 weeks.
Zumba Gold Class - At CASI will meet every Wednesday from 1 – 1:45 pm and Thursdays 9:45-10:45 am. Everyone can do it. It’s lower impact, easy to follow steps, Latin inspired dance fitness party. Come try Zumba Gold! Members $2, Non-members $4. For more info call (563) 386-7477.
Tai Chi Wednesdays 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scott Caulpetzer instructor. New session starts on December 1. Cost: $18 for 6 weeks. Call (563) 386-7477 for class schedule information.
Laughter Yoga at CASI - Thursday, 9:30-10:15 am. Free classes taught by certified Senior Star staff.

Book Clubs, Movies, Theater Trips and Speakers
Talk of the Town at CASI, 1035 W Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA. None in December!!! Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Learn about CommUniversity and what they have to offer. Eat at 11 am. Make your reservation now! 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.. Members free, non-members $2 to cover cost of pizza. Reservations needed – limited to 75 people. Sponsored by GolderCare Solutions.

Make your reservation now! 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.. Members free, non-members $2 to cover cost of pizza. Reservations needed – limited to 75 people. Sponsored by GolderCare Solutions.
Book Club at CASI Led by Mary Anne Maxwell,
Friday – January 6, 2012 – “State of Wonder” by Ann Patchett: Friday – February 3, 2012 “Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett (a two-part read) will be continued Friday, March2, 2012.
Movie Matinee at CASI 2nd Tuesday, January 10, 2012 starting at
1 pm., The Help. $2 donation includes popcorn and beverage. Call (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Travelogue at CASI – Mon., Jan. 9, Treasures within the U.S with Melanie Hill, 1 – 2 p.m. Members: Free tickets at front desk. Non Members: $1.00

Clinics and Classes
Foot Clinics at CASI By appt only. Genesis Foot Clinic provided by Genesis VNA.Call (563) 320-3978 to schedule your appointment ath the Genesis office at CASI. Cost $20. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Trinity Foot Clinic Stop at the CASI Reception desk or call CASI (563) 386-7477. Appointment must be made. Cash or Check payments only. Please bring two towels and one wash cloth to your appointments.
SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program) Clinic at CASI, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays Genesis Office, 9–11 a.m.

Sports, Cards and Games
Shuffleboard at CASI: Monday 2:15–3:45 pm $2 for Member. Mary Anne Maxwell
Billiards at CASI Cost $1 per person Member. Call (563) 386-7477 for info and availability
Wii at CASI Play Wii sports. The Wii is free!! Up to 4 players available whenever room is open.
Cards at CASI - Pinochle – Monday, Tuesday,, Wednesday & Friday, – 1–3:45 pm; Bridge – Monday and Friday 12:30–3:45 pm; Euchre – Thursday and Friday 1 – 3:45 pm; Canasta – Tuesday 1 – 3 pm; Cribbage – Wednesday 1 – 3 pm. All games are $2 Member at Center for Active Seniors, Inc. (CASI) 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Call CASI at (563) 386-7477 for more info.
Bingo at CASI Fridays at 12:30 pm. Sandwiches and snacks available at Eleanor’s Café. Until 1 pm.

Arts, Crafts, Knitting and Sewing
Beginning Ceramics at CASI Monday 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Verdene Franklin. Member cost: $5 per class.
All Day Ceramics 9:30 a.m. – Noon- Lunch – 1 – 3 p.m. with Dar Hanssen Cost: $5 per class in the morning, $8 all day Class size is limited. Call CASI at (563) 386-7477 for more information.
Crochet and Knitting at CASI – Tuesdays 12:30 – 2:20 pm. Make hats, scarves and mittens to be donated. We will teach beginners to crochet.
Sewing Ugly Quilts at CASI 1035 W Kimberly Road Every Tue 8-11 pm. No charge.
CASI Art Classes - Call (563) 386 7477 Art Class with Betty Felder.
Drawing & Clay Sculpting Instructor: Paul Aglueseva, Thursdays, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Cost: $5.00 + materials; Monday evening, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Cost: $6.00 + materials. CASI 1035 W. Kimberly Rd, Davenport, (563) 386-7477.

Other Events
Live Music for Brunch at Brady Street Chop House - Every Sunday 10 am – 1 pm– at the Brady Street Chop House at RADISSON QUAD CITY PLAZA Phone: (563) 322-2200 Website: http://www.radisson.com/davenport-hotel-ia-52801/iadaven

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What’s the best way to thaw a frozen turkey? Is it safe to make pies and vegetable dishes a couple days before the big family gathering? And what’s the best way to deal with the leftovers? To get answers to these and other holiday food questions, call Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Answer Line, 800-262-3804.

“We can answer your holiday meal preparation questions, as well as the stain removal questions resulting from those holiday meals,” said Answer Line Coordinator Liz Meimann.

Professional family and consumer scientists at the toll-free hotline can explain everything from how long to cook the turkey to how far ahead to make the pumpkin pie — or any other holiday dish, Meimann said.

Generally, the hotline answers calls Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. In addition, Iowans can get answers to frequently asked questions on the Answer Line website, www.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Consumers can search by keyword, browse the keyword index or select a topic area to find answers to their questions, Meimann said.

A Relay Iowa line (phone linkage for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals) is available at 711. The toll-free hotline is available in Minnesota at 800-854-1678. Questions also can be sent by e-mail to answer@iastate.edu.

Don’t miss this big opportunity.

It’s true. Davenport Now will write you a check for buying a new Dan Dolan town home at Stone Gate East. It’s part of the City of Davenport incentive program to stimulate new construction in the city. And no, you don’t have to pay it back!

To date, 11 of our current home buyers have qualified for the program, and by acting now, you can be among them. This is a significant incentive and allows homebuyers to offset part of the purchase price of the home, or to provide extra funding for new furnishings that may be desired for the new home. But, homeowners can use the funds any way they wish. In essence, it really is “free money.” But, there are many other reasons why home buyers should make their home purchase decision now, rather than one or two years hence.

1. Have you noticed the continuing low mortgage rates? Even for seniors who don’t plan on mortgaging their own home purchase, that’s important because lower rates mean more qualifying buyers for the home they are selling. And that’s always a benefit.

2. At Dan Dolan Homes, we’ve been promoting the Reverse Mortgage for Purchase that was approved by Congress in 2009. For many seniors, we believe that mechanism represents a viable option, because it allows buyers to move in after just a one-time down payment with no further mortgage payments ever. One of the factors in determining the down payment, however, is the prevailing mortgage rate. Every banker that I know believes that current mortgage rates will be turning upward as inflation sets in. Accordingly, sooner is better than later for favorable financing.

3. Finally, we continue to believe that material and labor costs will have to inch higher as reconstruction efforts in southern U.S. and Japan put pressure on material costs throughout the housing industry. Moreover, we see land costs continuing to rise throughout the Quad-Cities market so new home prices are further threatened.

And this program is good for the city of Davenport, too. New home construction is a major source of jobs. Drop by our construction site at Stone Gate East during the work week and see the many craftsmen at work. That translates to income for the community. Additionally, new homes are a source of new tax income for the city, county and school district.

Once again, we encourage seniors who are looking to downsize or simply move to a new more energy efficient home with living all on the main floor to acquire their new housing this year, to act sooner, rather than later, in order to take advantage of the Davenport Now incentives and to benefit from current favorable mortgage rates. As usual, our Realtor staff is available weekends at our various Saturday and Sunday open houses. For hours at the various locations, call me at (563) 570-1460 or call Don Gibeault at (563) 650-8007.

Stark County has been added to Illinois Dept. of Agriculture Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine Area

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has expanded the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine area, adding 14 additional counties, bringing the total to 39 counties in the quarantine. One of the counties added is Stark County. The Emerald Ash Borer was found near Toulon, IL. Due to this find in Stark, all of Marshall and Bureau counties are now included in the Nov. 10, 2011 quarantine area expansion.

What does being in the quarantine area mean? Movement of wood products and nursery stock is prohibited across quarantine boundaries. The intent is to prevent the artificial spread of the beetle through movement of infested wood and nursery stock. According to the IDOA EAB website, the quarantine prohibits the removal of the following items from the quarantine area:

• The emerald ash borer in any living stage of development

• Ash trees of any size

• Ash limbs and branches

• Any cut, non-coniferous firewood (this includes all hardwood firewood)

• Bark from ash trees and wood chips larger than one inch from ash trees.

• Ash logs and lumber with either the bark or the outer one-inch of sapwood, or both, attached.

• Any item made from or containing the wood of the ash tree that is capable of spreading the emerald ash borer

• Any other article, product or means of conveyance determined by the IDOA to present a risk of spreading the beetle infestation.

The emerald ash borer is a small, metallic-green beetle native to Asia. It does not pose any direct risk to public health, but does threaten the ash tree population. It feeds only on true ash trees, members of the Fraxinus genus. EAB larvae burrow into the bark of ash trees, causing the trees to starve and eventually die. Since the beetle was first confirmed in the Midwest in the summer of 2002, it has killed more than 25 million ash trees. EAB was first confirmed in Illinois in 2006. It is suspected that it was transported here in contaminated firewood. To prevent future occurrences, IDOA encourages Illinois residents to
purchase only locally-grown nursery stock and locally-cut firewood.

The beetle can be difficult to detect in newly infested trees, often not discovered until it has been in the area for several years. Signs of infestation include the presence of metallic-green beetles about half the diameter of a penny on or around ash trees. This will be during the months when the adults are actively flying, usually late May through July. One will also start to see a thinning of the crown and yellowing leaves. The larvae when exiting the tree leave a D-shaped hole.

University of Illinois Extension and IDOA are offering a free Emerald Ash Borer Management program on Dec. 8, in Wyoming, Illinois. The program will be held at the WiHi center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The program will include EAB—how did it get here and what can we do, EAB look-alikes, ash tree identification, recommended ash tree replacements, firewood movement and quarantine restrictions. There is no fee to attend, but pre-registration is required to reserve a lunch. You can register online at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/hmrs/ or call the University of Illinois Extension office at (309) 756-9978. Registration deadline is Dec. 5.