Trudy’s Triumph: From Reluctant Beginner to Lifelong Fitness Champion

By Robert Schwander, Owner, Fitness Counseling, Inc.   This month’s article is a follow-up article on a wonderful client whom I have had the privilege to assist on her fitness journey since 2003. Trudy Faries was born in Peoria, Illinois, and grew up in East Peoria. Trudy went to East Peoria High School; thereafter, she […]

Quilts of Valor

HONORING OUR SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS!   By Rita Latour   November is the month that we celebrate and honor our veterans, so it is a perfect time to talk about the Quilts of Valor Foundation and the remarkable healing, and comfort provided through the gift of a quilt. This organization was established in 2003 […]

The Power of Pets: How Animals Bring Joy and Wellness to Retirement Living

Submitted by Snyder Village   At Snyder Village, we know that home just doesn’t feel complete without the love and companionship of a pet. That’s why we welcome furry friends in both our retirement cottages and apartments—because pets aren’t just animals; they’re family. For many older adults, the bond between a person and their pet […]

Build Social Bonds to Protect Health

From an early age, we learn that nutritious foods and physical activity can help us stay healthy. Growing evidence now suggests that social connections may also be key to good health. Socially connected people tend to live longer. They’re at lower risk for serious health problems. Social bonds are also linked to our mental health, […]

The Benefits of Reminiscing

How Sharing Stories Strengthens Hearts and Minds Submitted by Snyder Village Sometimes, the simple act of sharing a story can do more for the heart than we realize. A familiar smell, a favorite song, or a well-loved photograph can open the door to memories that bring comfort, joy, and connection. For older adults especially, taking […]

Need Help Paying for Medicare or Prescriptions?

Assistance May Be Available By Tamia R. Banks, licensed agent Insurance Management & Services   If you’re on Medicare and finding it hard to afford your monthly premiums or prescription drug costs, you are not alone—and there may be help available to reduce those costs or even eliminate them. Many people don’t realize they qualify […]

Become a Halloween Hero

If you participated in trick-or-treat adventures as a child, you’re part of a long tradition for millions of children. This year, you can teach your own children or grandchildren what it means to become a Halloween hero. As the longest-running youth engagement campaign in the U.S., Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF has taught generations about the power […]

Winter Preparation

for Your Home, Health & Happiness By Alexander Germanis   One of the fables told by the ancient Greek fabulist and storyteller Aesop was that of “The Ant and the Grasshopper.” A hard-working ant prepares diligently for the approaching winter while the weather is still warm and enjoyable. Meanwhile, the grasshopper, expresses little concern for […]

The Power of Showing Up

By Robert Schwander, Owner, Fitness Counseling, Inc.   This month’s article is written about a very special client of mine, Lindsay Grimmer. Lindsay and I have been training together for the past 23 years. Lindsay was born in Indiana, and at the age of four, her family moved to Rockford, Illinois. Lindsay attended Guilford High […]

Make a Simple Swap for Healthier Parfaits

Boost the nutritional value of your favorite snacks at home with a smart substitution that helps you prioritize heart health: low-fat or nonfat Greek yogurt. By using Greek yogurt in place of full-fat sour cream and other dairy products, you can make nutrition-conscious decisions all year long in recipes like Fruity Oatmeal Yogurt Parfaits. This […]