NEWS AND VIEWS

Our Mission

“To provide resources and support for Wexford County

residents, sixty and over.”

Our Vision

For seniors to live healthy, safe and independent lives with dignity and

respect.

Our Values

Compassion

Diversity

Independence

Determination

And

Inclusion

January/ February

2019 The Tax Reform Act was passed and signed into law for 2018. According to multiple sources this bill will sim-plify the tax process, preserve the mortgage interest deduction, eliminate Obamacare’s individual mandate penalty tax for 2019, increase the standard deduction, provide more support to American families, provide relief for Americans with expensive medical bills, and im-prove savings vehicles for education. Here is a break down of the changes that effect us all.

Social Security benefits are an important source of income for many retirees, and for many a portion of this income is taxable. But the new tax rules lowered most of the marginal income tax rates. For example, the 15 percent tax rate dropped to 12 percent, and the 25 percent tax rate is now 22 percent. So with more income included in the lower tax brackets, many seniors' Social Security taxable income should be lower. The new rules didn't change the calculation of the amount of Social Security benefits included in taxable income. If your

adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Secu-rity benefit totals more than $25,000 for individuals and $32,000 for cou-ples, half of your Social Security benefit will be taxable. And up to 85 percent of your benefit will be sub-ject to tax if these income sources exceed $34,000 for individuals and $44,000 for couples. Pension pay-ments, traditional 401(k) and IRA withdrawals, interest, dividends and income from a part-time job could all contribute to making your Social Se-curity benefit taxable. Difference in Marginal Tax Rates and Brackets: For 2018, the tax brackets have shifted, and almost all of the marginal tax rates have been cut. The individual tax brackets would be set at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32% 35% and 37% and would expire in 2025. That means nearly everyone will have lower in-come tax rates (on the same income) in 2018. Difference in the Standard Deduction: Another important dif-ference in the 2018 tax reform bill is that the standard deduction has al-most doubled. Individuals see

Tax Reform for 2018

Inside This Issue From the Director 2

Medicare News 3

Kitchen Korner 5

Health & Wellness 6

In the Know 8

Low Vision Group 10

Puzzle Page 12

Funny Bone 13

Senior Happenings 14

Mark Your Calendar

Jan. 1— New Year’s Day (COA Office closed)

Jan. 21— Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan. 21— National Hugging Day!

Jan. 23— National Pie Day!

Feb. 2— Groundhogs Day

Feb. 14— Valentine’s Day

Feb. 17— Random Act of Kindness Day!

Feb. 18— President’s Day

Feb. 20— National Love your Pet Day!

Continued on page 4

Directors Report Kathy Kimmel

Dear Wexford County Council on Aging Friends: Happy New Year!!! Welcome to 2019!!! 2018 was certainly a busy year for us here at the COA and we are so grateful for all those who support the WCCOA allowing us to provide the services we do to the area seniors. We have just completed one of the busiest times of the year for us here at WCCOA. Not only have we been signing up Wexford County seniors for snowplowing services but we just finished the 6 week workshop “Creating Confident Caregivers” and Open Enrollment for Medicare Part D. What a season we had!! As we are trying to catch our breath, we have been over-

whelmed by the generous hearts of the Cadillac community, of all ages. Thank you SNAG for the annual paper goods drive. Thank you Project Christmas for thinking about the isolated, homebound seniors. Thank you 3rd Day Farm and the Faith Baptist Church for the food baskets. Thank you Mr. Mike Filkins and the Cadillac high school band and choir for the Christmas caroling. Thank you Mrs. Swiger and your class of 2nd grad-ers from ForestView Ele-mentary for your hand-made and heartfelt Christ-

mas cards. Thank you all for reaching out to our agency to help you connect with seniors in our community who would benefit from your gifts. Wishing you and yours a Safe, Healthy and Happy New Year. Blessings, Kathy Kimmel

Director: Kathy Kimmel

Board Members

Chair: Lynne Harris Vice Chair: Jennifer Moffit Secretary—Catherine Best Treasurer—Leo Paveglio Lester Barnes Robert Colvin Ruthann French Roger Gren Jenni Johnson Floyd Kanipe Jane Leveque William Potvin Pat Steinhour Gary Taylor Associate Member: Sandra Spencer

Services Offered by the Wexford County Council

on Aging

Homemaking Services Personal Care

In-Home Respite DayBreak Adult Day Center

Foot Care Clinics Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program

(MMAP) Medication Management

Private Duty Nursing Information and Assistance

(Seasonal) Senior Project Fresh

Snow Plowing For More Information ,

Please call (231) 775-0133

News and Views: For information on the

newsletter or to submit an article please contact the

COA office at (231) 775-0133

Carrie L. Galligan cgalligan@wexfordcoa.org

Or Jessie Pascoe jpascoe@wexfordcoa.org

WEBSITE: Www.wexfordcoa.org

FACEBOOK: Www.faxebook.com/

WexfordCOA

Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans

Depending on how you get your Medicare coverage, you have different considerations when choosing health care providers. If you have Original Medicare, your Part B, costs, after you have met your deductible can vary depending on the type of provider you see. There are three kinds of agreements that provid-ers can have with Medicare about how they will be reim-bursed for services they provide to Medicare beneficiaries.

A participating provider accepts Medicare and takes as-signment. Taking assignment means that a provider accepts Medicare’s approved amount for health care services as full pay-ment. To pay the least for ser-vices see a participating provider when possible. • These providers are required

to submit a bill (file a claim) to Medicare for care you receive from them.

• If you see a participating provider, you are responsible for paying a 20% coinsurance for most Medicare-covered services.

• Certain providers, such as clinical social workers and physician assistants, must al-ways take assignment if they accept Medicare.

A non-participating provider accepts Medicare but does not agree to take assign-ment in all cases (but they may take assignment on a case-by-case basis). • Non-participating providers

can charge up to 15% more than Medicare’s approved amount for the cost of ser-vices you receive (known as the limiting charge). This

means you are responsible for up to 35% (20% coinsur-ance + 15% limiting charge) of Medicare’s approved amount for covered services.

• The limiting charge rules do not apply to durable medical equipment suppliers.

An opt-out provider does not accept Medicare at all and has signed an agreement to be ex-cluded from the Medicare pro-gram. This means they can charge whatever they want for services but must follow certain rules to do so. • The provider must give you a

private contract describing their charges and confirming that you understand you are responsible for the full cost of your care.

• Medicare will not pay for care you receive from an opt-out provider (except in emergen-cies). You are responsible for the full cost of your care.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan: All Medicare Advantage Plans must cover the same health care services as

Original Medicare, but they may do so with different costs and restrictions. There are several kinds of Medicare Advantage Plans. The most common types of plans are Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organiza-tions (PPOs), and Private Fee-for Service (PFFS) plans. Other plan types are Special Needs Plans (SNPs), Provider-Sponsored Organizations (PSOs), and Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs).

A network is a group of doctors, hospitals, and medical facilities that contracts with a plan to provide services. There are various ways a plan can manage your access to out-of-network providers. Remember that not all plans work the same way.

If you have questions about your Medicare coverage please call the Wexford County Council on Aging (231-775-0133) for an ap-pointment with our certified Medicare counselors.

HMO PPO PFFS Do I need to get a

referral before I can see an in-network

specialist?

Yes, usually No Yes

Will the plan pay for care from a doctor or hospital that is not in the plan’s network?

No, unless you need urgent or

emergency care or if you

have a Point of Service (POS) option that al-

lows you to use out- of-network

providers

Yes, but you will pay more, unless it is an

emergency

Yes, but you will usually

pay more and the provider

must agree to treat you,

unless it is an emergency

Page 3

A general overview of provider access rules for HMOs, PPOs, and PFFS

Tax Reform for 2018 Continued from page 1

standard deductions rise to $12,000; for heads of house-hold, it rises to $18,000; and for married couples fil-ing jointly the standard deduction increases to $24,000. Also, the additional standard deduction for filers over age 65 will still be available. Single filers over 65 can claim an additional $1,600, and married filers over 65 can claim an extra $2,600. The standard deduc-tion is an automatic reduction in a taxpayer’s tax obligation. U.S. taxpayers have long had the op-tion of taking the federal stan-dard deduction or itemizing their deductions—identifying which expenses they qualify for and calculating their deductions one by one. Itemizing is more of a hassle, but it’s worth it if your itemized deductions exceed the amount of the standard deduction. At first glance, the increase in the standard deduc-tion makes itemizing look even less worthwhile. But, the 2018 tax reform bill also eliminates the personal exemption. Here’s how those two changes play out: In 2017, the personal exemption was $4,050 per person and dependent. Essentially, the tax reform bill simplified this portion of the income tax process. In many cases, the increase in the standard deduction will make up for the elimination of personal exemptions, leaving most Ameri-cans with quite a bit more money in their pockets. Difference in the SALT Deduction: SALT stands for "state and local taxes" and refers to taxpayers’ ability to deduct their state income taxes and/or sales taxes, if itemizing deduc-tions. The new tax reform bill

keeps the SALT deduction but limits the total deductible amount to $10,000, including income, sales and property taxes. The Estate Tax Exemption: Currently, heirs pay a tax rate of 40% on any inherited property valued at over $5.49 million. In the new tax reform bill, indi-viduals have a $11.2 million life-time inheritance tax exemption and married couples can exclude inheritances of $22.4 million. As you can probably imagine, this won’t leave too many families paying the estate tax. What About Charitable Donations: Under current tax law, you can deduct up to half of your income in qualified charita-ble donations if you itemize your deductions. That makes it a popular deduction for people at all income levels. The new tax reform bill has increased that limit to 60% of your in-come. What a great incentive to get taxpayers to donate to charities! However, donations made to a college in exchange for the right to purchase athletic tickets will no longer be deductible. What About Medical Expenses: Prior to the new tax reform bill you could deduct unreimbursed medical expenses above 10% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), which is your to-tal income minus other deduc-tions you have already taken. The new tax reform bill has reduced that hurdle to 7.5% of your AGI. So, if your AGI was $100,000 in 2017, you could de-duct medical expenses over $10,000. In 2018, if your AGI is $100,000, you will be able to deduct unreimbursed medical expenses over $7,500. What About Health Care:

The new tax reform bill removes the individual mandate penalty, meaning that people who don’t buy health insurance will no longer have to pay a tax penalty. However, this change doesn’t go into effect until 2019, so for 2018, the "Obamacare penalty" can still be assessed. Mortgage Interest: New homeowners can include mort-gage interest paid up to $750,000 of principal value on a new home in their itemized deductions. The old $1 million caps continues to apply to cur-rent homeowners (those who took out their mortgages on or before Dec. 15, 2017), as well as refinancing on mortgages taken out on or before Dec. 15, 2017, as long as new mortgage amount does not exceed the amount of debt being refinanced. Home-owners CAN deduct interest paid on a home equity line of credit or home equity loan, so long as the loan was used to buy, build or substantially improve your home. These changes are set to expire after 2025. Other Deductions That Are Disappearing. Other deductions that didn’t make it past the chopping block in the new tax reform bill: Casualty and theft losses (except those attributable to a federally declared disaster) Unreimbursed employee expenses Tax preparation expenses Alimony payments Moving expenses Employer-subsidized parking and transportation reimburse-ment. Don’t worry, teachers can still deduct classroom supplies! Information from https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/tax-reform-bill

KITCHEN KORNER 1. Tired of water spots on the sink and faucet? Rub

them with a halved lemon. 2. Put some marshmallows in your brown sugar to keep it from clumping. 3. What to do with all those plastic bags? Roll them and put them in a

large wipes container. You can pull them from the top and get rid of the bag mess in your pantry.

Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings

1 onion, chopped 1 1/4 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 bay leaf 2 stalks celery, chopped 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 c. frozen peas,thawed 1 (16.3-oz.) can refrigerated biscuits 1. Scatter onion in the bottom of a large slow cooker then top with chicken. Season with oregano, salt,

and pepper. 2. Pour over soup and broth then add thyme and bay leaf. Cover and cook on high until the chicken is

cooked through, 3 hours. 3. Discard thyme and bay leaf, then shred chicken with two forks. Stir in celery, carrots, peas, and

garlic. 4. Cut biscuits into small pieces and scatter over chicken mixture. Cook on high until vegetables are

tender and biscuits are cooked through, about 1 hour. 5. Serve and enjoy!

HACKS—TIPS & TRICKS

ONE PAN CHICKEN WITH VEGGIES Serves 4

INGREDIENTS: 4 large or 8 small bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks 3 teaspoons dried oregano divided 2 teaspoons paprika, divided 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 8 ounces baby red potatoes, halved or quartered 8 ounces brussels sprouts, halved or quartered 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 cloves garlic minced 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Zest of 1 lemon

1. Preheat oven to 400° F/205°C. Lightly oil a baking sheet. 2. Season chicken with 2 teaspoons of oregano, 1 teaspoon pa-

prika, salt and pepper. Set aside. 3. Place potatoes and brussels sprouts in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Stir in olive oil, gar-lic, lemon juice, lemon zest and the remaining oregano and paprika. Top with chicken in a single layer. 4. Place into oven and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165° F. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is caramelized and slightly charred on top.

Page 5

STAYING ACTIVE IN THE WINTER

As tempting as it may be to spend the winter months cozied up by the fire snacking on holi-day cookies, your health should still be top of mind. Inactivity can lead to loss of muscle mass and high blood pressure in seniors, among many other health risks. That's why the U.S. Centers for Disease Con-trol recommend 2.5 hours of ex-ercise a week for those 65 and older. Use these tips to stay active this winter: 1. Lift weights There are numerous benefits to lifting weights. According to Active.com, a weight training program improves bone density, increases muscle strength, helps with weight management and can enhance metabolic fitness. Lifting weights is also good because it's a low impact workout. The key to any exercise program is to complete a handful of sets of repetitions. VeryWell.com recommended completing three sets of 12 repetitions of arm curls, forward lunges, front raises and more. 2. Try yoga Yoga is a peaceful exercise that provides three distinct health benefits for seniors. If you don't feel comfortable with using weights, yoga is a good substitute because the ex-ercise helps strengthen your bones. By practicing yoga, you may reduce the risk of osteopo-rosis. Yoga can also help you cut some pounds. According to American Senior Communi-ties, yoga helps lessen your risk of depression, alleviates pains and aches, and improves bone strength. 3. Go for a swim Swimming is already a good low

impact workout and one you should try because it targets many parts of your body. You can improve the condition of your heart and lungs, strengthen muscles and bones, and burn a lot of calories. Another perk of swimming: You don't always need to swim laps to feel the benefits. Water jogs or walks - or any cardio involving water weights - are other exam-ples of exercises you can com-plete. 4. Immerse yourself in water aerobics. Try some water aerobics if you don't feel comfortable enduring laps. Aero-bics, which are performed in shallow water, are a type of resis-tance training. In addition to being in the water, aerobic classes are typically con-ducted in group settings. This way, you're able to get your exer-cise in water and enjoy the com-pany of others. 5. Fight stress - gently According to the Mayo Clinic, practicing tai chi is one way to reduce stress in your life. Tai chi is a graceful exercise because it promotes inner calmness through a variety of gentle move-ments, such as drawn-out, slow-moving stretches. The benefits of tai chi can in-clude: Flexibility improvement Better sleep Improvement in joint pain More stamina and energy A reduced risk of falls You can practice tai chi by find-ing books and videos on the ex-ercise and trying them out while at home, or you can sign up for classes in your community. This winter, it's important you stay active to reduce the risk of illness and injury. Before you

head to the gym, be sure to con-sult with your doctor to see if routine exercise is OK. Source is https://ww.selectquotesenior.com

Community Resources for staying healthy this winter.

Cadillac Senior Center 231-779-9420 Mondays & Wednesdays: 10:00 am Wa-ter Aerobics - off site at the Cadillac Sands Resort, M-115- $4.00 per class Tuesdays & Fridays: 8:00 am Aerobics - off site at Evolve Fitness 113 N. Mitchell $3/class Thursdays: 10:30 Tai Chi (advanced but all levels welcome) donation to the instructor Manton Senior Center Tuesday: Tai Chi Tuesday PM call for more information 231-824-6961 Cadillac YMCA 231-775-3369 Senior Fit at the Y -Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30 am, 11:15 am & 1:30 pm. A low cost exercise program for those with chronic disease. Senior Fit at Harborview: Mondays & Wednesdays 3:00 pm

Winter Walk for Free

The Wexford Civic Arena Now until March 28th.

Free indoor walking Tuesday and Thursdays , 11 am—1 pm

Cadillac Area YMCA

Free walking for non—members on the track every Wednesday

from 11 am—2 pm

MEET OUR STAFF We are proud to announce the addition of Deb Simon to the staff of the Wexford County Council on Aging. Deb will serve as our Com-munity Health Advocate. She will assist seniors in Wexford County with a variety of issues such as navigating the probate

court system that will be going paperless by 2020. She will help apply for heat assistance, take appointments for the Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program and a variety of other issues that may arise for our seniors. Before coming to the COA Deb was a client advocate for Cadillac OASIS Family Resource Center. In her free time she enjoys reading, watching movies and spend-ing time with her family and friends.

We welcome Rhonda Berry to our nursing staff. Rhonda is an RN and will assist with the Foot Care program, service assessments, and medication setups. She has lived in Northern Michigan for 16 years

traveling downstate for work at the Genesys Medical Center and Dialysis, before coming to the Council on Aging. Rhonda and her husband have several Fur Babies, 2 dogs (Bubba and Ruby ) and a cat (Penelope), that they love very much. Rhonda likes to be out-doors, especially on the beach. She also enjoys kayaking and gardening. She loves to cook, enjoys watching movies and shopping.

Page 7

IN THE KNOW: Information and Resources in Wexford County

MEDICARE MONDAY JAN 14TH 4– 6 P.M.

Wexford County Council on Aging Office: 714 W. 13th St.

Cadillac, MI Call 231-775-0133 to reserve

your spot.

Learn how to navigate the Medicare Maze!

What is the Medicare Alphabet, Advantage Plans,

Supplemental Plans. Workshop presented by certified

Medicare counselor

We will explain it all in language you understand.

Seating is limited so call now to reserve your space.

Creating Confident Caregivers

Creating Confident Caregivers® offers information and skill-building activities to increase partici-pants’ effectiveness as caregivers. Any caregiver of a family member that still resides at home and is living with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, or other forms of dementia is encouraged to attend.

Meet once a week for 6 weeks at the WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING OFFICE

714 W. 13th St. Cadillac, MI 49601

Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00 PM

February 27, March 6, 13, 20, 27, and April 3, 2019

-or- Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 PM

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and August 6, 2019

No cost to attend. Optional donations appreciated. Space is limited (12 participants) and pre-

registration is required. Register with Sharon at 1-800-442-1713

Or online at www.aaanm.org/workshop-registration

Stehouwer Free Clinic

Has Moved to

803 Lynn Street Cadillac, MI 49601

The Stehouwer Free Clinic offers free limited healthcare to those who cannot afford to see a physician, and who may not have health insur-

ance. We also offer a Medication Access Program for those who need prescriptions and cannot af-

ford to pay for them.

Hours are:

Mon – Thurs: 9 am—4:30 pm

(Closed 12pm - 1pm for lunch)

Telephone: 231-876-6150

Stay Fit—

Winter Walk Schedule

The Wexford Civic Center Now until March 28th.

Free indoor walking Tuesday and Thursdays 11 am—1 pm

Cadillac Area YMCA

Free walking for non—members on the track every Wednesday from

11 am—2 pm

WEXFORD COA IS IN NEED OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

• ALL SIZES of Adult Pull ups

• Blue Chuck Pads • Paper Towels • Garbage Bags • Toilet Paper • Laundry Soap

All UNUSED items may be dropped off at

Wexford COA Office 714 W. 13th St.

Cadillac, MI 49601 (231) 775-0133

During business hours.

Those supplies donated are for the use of our lowest income seniors.

Any medical equipment can be taken to The Medical Equipment Pantry at

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. 815 Lincoln St.

Cadillac, MI Monday & Thursday

Open 12:00—2:00 pm (231) 884-3623

THANK YOU ANGELS These items have been donated to the COA recently. We thank the donor so very much for their thoughtfulness and generosity. The supplies are then given to seniors in need. We were blessed with donations of incontinence supplies by

Rose G. Pat S. Ron P. Gail N. Stella Cora G. Judy J.

And several who wish to remain Anonymous

Thank You, Maria G. for all the goodies. Thank you Jackie & Butch for the Christmas Tree

for the COA office.

Thank you Karen A. for the Low Vision Reader. It was given to the Low Vision Group.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE: DONATE

When You Donate, You Make a Difference

The Wexford County Council on Aging is an independent 501 © (3) not-for-profit organization that depends upon donations to sustain our programs. When you make a donation to the Wexford County Council on Aging, you will be helping to provide important services and programs to seniors in our county. Some of these services include home-making services, respite services, personal care services and more.

Tribute Donations: You may consider asking for gifts to the Wexford County Council on Aging as a memorial in lieu of flowers.

Planned Giving: As you prepare your legacy for your family and your commu-nity, please consider including the Wex-ford County Council on Aging as part of your plans. Please remember us in your estate planning or simply have your

attorney add an addendum to your will. Your bequest to the Wexford county Council on Aging will benefit many seniors and help us to continue vitally needed services for years to come.

You can be assured we will continue to be good stewards of your gifts. If you would like to designate your gift to a specific program or in memory or honor of an individual, please tell us and we will do our best to meet your wishes. If you have any ques-tions, please feel free to contact us at (231) 775-0133.

100% of all contributions are retained by the Wexford Council on Aging. The Wexford Council on Aging is an independent 501 © (3) not-for-profit organization. Gifts to the Wexford County Council on Aging are tax de-ductible under appropriate I.R.S regulations. Consult your tax or legal advisor for details.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO DONATED to the SNAG (Senior Networking

Advocacy Group) BASKETS OF LOVE DRIVE

That was held in November at the Wal-Mart. This drive provided paper and

cleaning products for low income sen-iors in Wexford and Missaukee

counties.

THANK YOU to THE EMMANUEL LUTHERAN

CHURCH They donated $200 from their

Holiday Market proceeds to the COA Incontinence Supply

Closet.

THANK YOU to Lake City Family Diner

Who donated $150 to the Council.

THANK YOU to PROJECT

CHRISTMAS and 3rd Day Farm for making

Christmas a bit brighter for our seniors.

WE ARE SO BLESSED!

Page 9

One option for the blind or visually impaired is a partnership with a trained guide dog. For many, this op-tion helps to maintain their independence in traveling or safe mobility in their home. For those who espe-cially enjoy sharing their life with a canine friend, it can be particularly rewarding. Guide dog is the generic term for a dog trained to help a person with blindness or vision impairment, and other disabilities. Leader Dog, Seeing Eye Dog, Guiding Eyes For the Blind, are names of just 3 of the 14 schools in the US that train guide dogs and those who use them. On average, the dogs spend the first 12-14 months with puppy raisers, then the next 4-6 months with the trainer at the guide dog school. The dogs are then placed with the student on the first or second day of the 3 weeks the students spend at the school. The student learns to work with the training of the dogs, then the team goes home to begin their lives together. Most of the schools provide the dog, room and board, as well as transportation to and from the school with the dog, all free of charge to the student. Some schools pro-vide continuing support, some monetary, some access to trainers, for the team’s duration. Most dogs work-ing life is 8 years, after which they may go back to the school for placement as a pet, or kept as a pet by their person. A guide dog can also be raised and trained by the blind or visually impaired person. This situation can increase the bond between the dog and person, as well as allow for training to fill more specific needs. A guide dog is a service dog. American Disabilities Act defines a Service Dog as “a dog trained to perform a task for the benefit of a person with a disability”. Service Dogs enjoy the privilege of unrestricted admit-tance to wherever people go. Therapy or Companion dogs are excluded from this category. Most schools use Golden and/or Labrador Retrievers, standard poodles, or mixes of the three. Some also still use German Shepherds, but most are moving away from them.

The ADA nor any government authority registers or certifies service dogs. Certification can be obtained from other sources.

Low Vision Support Group By Connie Payne

Veterans Corner By Kent Myers

Wexford County Veterans’ Services is navigating some recent changes to promote better quality services in our community. First, we are now open 5 days a week, Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Second, we are developing checklist to help veterans with specific needs, checklist which help veterans and families determine what documents are required for specific programs. Since the discharge documents DD-214 or WG-53 for WWII veterans is so very important to determine eligibility, the DD-214 or WG-53 will be the first document to acquire. VA pension with aid and attendance remains of high interest to veter-ans and families. One thing to remember about aid and attendance is, A&A is a needs based program. Income and asset limits have increased to $130,000.00 and there is now a 3 year look back for asset trans-fers. Additional the veteran or spouses need of assistance for Activities of Daily Living will be of considera-tion. Basic Eligibility for Pension: Generally, a Veteran must have at least 90 days of active duty ser-vice, with at least one day during a wartime period to qualify for a VA Pension. If you entered active duty after September 7, 1980, generally you must have served at least 24 months or the full period for which you were called or ordered to active duty (with some exceptions), with at least one day during a wartime period. Aid & Attendance (A&A): The Aid & Attendance (A&A) increased monthly pension amount may be added to your monthly pension amount if you meet one of the following conditions: • You require the aid of another person in order to perform personal functions required in everyday liv-ing, such as bathing, feeding, dressing, attending to the wants of nature, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting yourself from the hazards of your daily environment. • You are bedridden, in that your disabil-ity or disabilities requires that you remain in bed apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment. • You are a patient in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity. • Your eyesight is limited to a corrected 5/200 visual acuity or less in both eyes; or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less. Personally, I want to thank all of you for your support of Veteran Services and

sharing the knowledge of what we do. We look forward to serving you in 2019. Page 10

PUZZLE PAGE solutions on page 17

GROUNDHOG DAY WORD SCRAMBLE

1. mnilaa _________ 11. urf ___________ 2. ekaaw _________ 12. ihernabet ________ 3. oburrw________ 13. ohel________ 4. uloydc_________ 14. aelt___________ 5. larey __________ 15. mammla ________ 6. smuoaf_________ 16. mratmo ________ 7. brurFaey ________ 17. tcrvsaoe ________ 8. okforell__________ 18. liph ________ 9. cartsefo__________ 19. retha ________ 10. doguhnorg________ 20. lsanvPnnyaei ______________

CRAZY MAZE

1

2

3

4

Rebus Picture Puzzles

1. A lift is on the ground floor. There are four people in the lift in-cluding me. When the lift reaches first, floor, one person gets out and three people get in. The lift goes up to the second floor, 2 peo-ple get out 6 people get in. It then goes up to the next floor up, no-one gets out but 12 people get in. Halfway up to the next floor up the lift cable snaps, it crashes to the floor. Everyone else dies in the lift. How did I survive? 2. A man pushes his car to a hotel and tells its owner that he is bankrupt. Why?

3. I have no voice, yet I speak to you. I tell of all things in the world that people do. I have leaves, but I am not a tree. I have pages, but I am not a bride. I have a spine, but I am not a man. I have hinges, but I am not a door. I have told you all. I cannot tell you more. What am I?

4. You are a cyclist in a cross-country race. Just before the crossing finish line, you overtake the person in second place. In what place did you finish?

BRAIN TEASERS

Page 12

THE FUNNY BONE Laugh Out Loud

1. What do cows celebrate on December 31st?

2. What did the painter say to her boyfriend?

3. What do farmers give their wives on Valentines day?

4. What kind of shoes do mice wear?

5. What do you tell someone you didn’t see at New Year’s Eve?

6. What do you get with a fly, a pet, and a car?

7. What’s the best part about Valentine’s Day?

8. What do you call a cow with a twitch?

9. Do skunks celebrate Valentine’s Day?

10. What did the man with the broken leg say to his nurse?

11. What did Delaware?

12. Did you hear about the romance in the tropical fish tank?

13. What do you call two birds in love?

14. What did one pickle say to the other?

15. What do pigs give on Valentine’s Day? Answers: 1. Moo Year’s Eve. 2. I love you with all my art! 3. Hog and Kisses. 4. Squeakers. 5. I haven’t seen you all year! 6. A flying car pet. 7. The day after, when all the chocolate goes on sale. 8. Beef Jerky. 9. Sure, they’re very scent-imental! 10. “I’ve got a crutch on you!” 11. She wore a brand New Jersey. 12. It was a case of guppy love. 13. Tweethearts! 14. “You mean a great dill to me.” 15. Valensines!

Page 13

TRIVIA

1. Which port lies between Puget Sound & Lake Washington?

2. In which city were Rotary Clubs set up in 1905? 3. Who became US Vice President when Spiro

Agnew resigned? 4. In which decade of the 20th Century was Billy

Crystal born? 5. San Giusto International Airport is in which

Country? 6. Where is the multinational Nestle based? 7. The US signed a treaty with which country to

allow the construction of the Panama Canal? 8. Man in the Mirror, first featured on which

Michael Jackson album? 9. Where was the first battle with US involvement

in the Korean War? 10. The Queen Elizabeth Liner was destroyed by fire

in the 70’s in which harbor? 11. Which oil scandal hit the US in 1924? 12. How many pounds of fish can a pelican hold in

it’s pouch? ANSWERS: 1. Seattle. 2. Chicago. 3. Gerald Ford. 4. 1940’s. 5. Italy. 6. Switzerland. 7. Columbia. 8. Bad. 9. Suwon. 10. Hong Kong. 11. Teapot Dome Scandal. 12. About 25 pounds.

Cadillac Senior Center

601 Chestnut Street, Cadillac, MI 49601 Contact : Diane Patterson (231) 779-9420 Drop-in/Office Hours: M, T, W, TH. 10 am—2:30 pm. cadillacseniorcenter@hotmail.com or online at cadillacseniorcenters.wixsite.com/cadillac

DAILY ACTIVITIES, TRIPS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND MORE!

Call, stop in or check out the monthly calendar online @ cadillacseniorcenters.wixsite.com/cadillac LUNCHES: $4.00 M—TH . Please call the day before for reservations. MONTHLY: COA Foot Clinic: Second Wednesday call (231) 775-0133 for an appointment. Parkinson support Group: 1st Tuesday , 1:00 pm.

Manton Area Retirees Club DAILY ACTIVITIES, TRIPS AND MORE!

302 W. Main, Manton, Mi 49601 Contact: Claire Underhill (231) 824-6961 Open Monday—Friday 7 am—3:00 pm. HOMEMADE LUNCHES: $3.00 Daily MONTHLY: COA Foot Clinic: Second Wednesday call (231) 775-0133 for an appointment.

Mesick Young of Heart

United Methodist Church, 121 S. Alvin St. Mesick, MI 49668 Contact: Jalene Croel (231) 360-8554 No office hours: POTLUCK AND SOCIAL GATHERING 1ST & 3RD Tuesday , 11:30 am MONTHLY: COA Foot Clinic: Second Wednesday call (231) 775-0133 for an appointment.

Wexford County Council on Aging

714 W. 13th St., Cadillac, MI 49601 (231) 775-0133

Monthly Board Meetings:

3rd Tuesday at 3:00 pm. The public is welcome to attend.

Low Vision Support Group

2nd Tuesday at 10 am

Paid Advertisements

This newsletter contains paid advertisements from area businesses. Advertisements were solicited as a way to help defray the cost of

publishing, printing and mailing the newsletter to over 700 households in Wexford

County. Although the Wexford Council on Aging cannot endorse individual

businesses, we Thank each one for their support to the mission of the

Wexford County Council on Aging and the

News & Views newsletter.

Manton Senior Center Calendar 231-824-6961 Supported by: NMCAA, AAA, Wexford COA, United Way and generous donations from our community

Page 15

30 31 1 New Year's Day 2 Wii Bowling 3 LRC Dice 4 Quarter Bingo 5

6 7 Eurche 8 Tai Chi 10am 9 Wii Bowling 10 Ladder Ball 11 Quarter Bingo 12

13 14 Foot Clinic 15 Tai Chi 10am 16 Domino 17 LRC Dice 18 Quarter Bingo 19

20 21 Eurche 22 Tai Chi 10am 23 Wii Bowling 24 Ladder Ball 25 Quarter Bingo 26

27 28 Card Class 29 Tai Chi 10am 30 Wii Bowling 31 Shuffleboard 1 2 Groundhog Day

3 4 NotesSuggested Donation: $3 over 60; $5 under 60Milk and Bread Served with every meal.

Supported by: NMCAA, AAA, United WayWexford COA

Plums Italian Blend Apple Crisp Jello w/FruitPears

Mixed Vegetables Pasta & Tossed Salad Mashed Potato Tossed SaladNoodles Veal Parmesan Carrots Cabbage Roll Soup

Chicken Alfredo Penny Bingo Hamburger Gravy Bowling

Applesauce Kyoto Blend Tropical Fruit PeachesSquash Rice California Blend Bananas Cottage Cheese

Mashed Potatoes Turkey Chop Suey Stewed Tomatoes Veggie Tray Broccoli w/CheesePork Chops Penny Bingo Mac– N-Cheese Taco Salad Baked Potato

Peaches Cherry Fluff JuicePears Carrot Raisin Salad Veggie Tray Mandarin Oranges Citrus Salad

Tossed Salad Egg Salad Sandwich Confetti Corn Spinach Sausage LinkItalian Blend Veg. Cr. Broccoli Soup Wet Burrito Cabbage & Noodles Hash Browns

Spaghetti w/Meatballs Penny Bingo Bowling w/prizes Chicken Biscuits & Gravy

Apricots Gr. Beans & Strawberries Applesauce Tropical FruitBroccoli Mashed Potatoes Fruit Cobbler Coleslaw Peas & CarrotsBiscuit Meatloaf Carrots Potato Wedges Cottage Fries

Creamed Chicken Penny Bingo Ham & Asparagus Cass. BBQ Pork Cod Fillets

Mixed Fruit PineappleColeslaw Kyoto Blend Cottage Cheese Fluff

Cottage Fries Rice Relish Tray

Saturday

Center Closed Burgers on Bun Sweet & Sour Chicken Chef Salad

January 2019Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

27 28 29 30 31 1 Quarter Bingo 2 Groundhog Day

3 4 Eurche 5 Tai Chi 10am 6 Wii Bowling 7 Ladder Ball 8 Quarter Bingo 9

10 11 Foot Clinic 12 Tai Chi 10am 13 Wii Bowling 14 LRC Dice 15 Quarter Bingo 16

17 18 Eurche 19 Tai Chi 10am 20 Wii Bowling 21 Ladder Ball 22 Quarter Bingo 23

24 25 Card Class 26 Tai Chi 10am 27 Wii Bowling 28 LRC Dice 1 2

3 4 NotesSuggested Donation: $3 over 60; $5 under 60Milk and Bread Served with every meal.

Supported by: NMCAA, AAA, United WayWexford COA

Apple Dessert JuiceApplesauce Veggie Tray Fruit Compote

Carrots Confetti Corn Sausage LinksMashed Potatos Mexican Lasagna Scrambled Eggs

Sausage & Saurkraut Penny Bingo Cook's Choice Pancakes

Pears PlumsCranberries Peas & Carrots Corn

Squash Mashed Potatoes Brussels Sprouts Cottage Cheese Cherry FluffPotatoes Spanish Pork Chops Rice Pilaf Brocolli w/cheese Veggie Tray

Cake & Fruit

Turkey Fillets Penny Bingo Chicken Baked Potato Taco Salad

Pineapple Apricots Juice Tuscan Blend Mandarin OrangesMidori blend Beets & Spinach Mixed Fruit Mashed Potato Tossed Salad

Rice & Tossed Salad Goulash w/ hashbrowns Stuffed Chicken PotatoesSweet & Sour Pork Penny Bingo Sausage Egg Bake Valentines Party Cod Fillets

Mandarin Oranges Cottage Cheese Fluff Mixed FruitMixed Vegetables Relish Tray Green Beans Fruit Cobbler

Mashed Potato Chef Salad Scalloped Potatoes Tossed SaladChicken Fillets Penny Bingo Meatloaf Cook's Choice Beef Barley Soup

Tropical FruitRedskins & Coleslaw

Saturday

Cod Loins

February 2019Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS

REBUS 1. I Love You 2. Once Upon a Time 3. See for yourself 4. Feeling on Top of the World Brain Teasers 1. I got out on the second floor! 2. He is playing Monopoly 3. A book 4. Second Place. If you pass the person in second, you take second place, and they become third.

1. animal 2. awake 3. burrow

4. cloudy 5. early 6. famous 7. February

8. folklore 9. forecast 10. groundhog

11. fur 12. hibernate 13. hole 14. late

15. mammal 16. marmot 17. overcast

18 Phil 19. earth 20. Pennsylvania

Page 16

8809 Pine Ridge Drive

Cadillac, Michigan 49601

Phone: (231) 775-3755

Your sight is irreplaceable and deserves the best possible care.

We offer comprehensive eye care services including ocular health and

vision exams, glasses, contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of

eye disease in a warm and personal environment.

*Retinal Imaging *Ocular Pressures (Glaucoma)

*Cataract Evaluation *Red Eye Treatment

*Diabetic Screening *On Site Lab

*Large Frame Selection

PRESORTED

STANDARD

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

CADILLAC, MI

PERMIT NO. 60

714 W. 13th St.

Cadillac, MI 49601

PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU HAVE AN ADDRESS CHANGE.

In order to make sure that you keep receiving your copy of “News & Views, please be sure to let us know if you have a change of address. We are charged for all newsletters returned as non-deliverable. If you have someone that you know who would like to receive a copy of our newsletter, use this form and drop it off or mail to Wexford County Council On Aging, 714 W. 13th St, Cadillac, MI 49601. ELECTRONIC ISSUE AVAILABLE.

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A one year subscription donation of $20, (make the check out to Wexford County Council On Aging), to support the COA newsletter. If you cannot afford this, any amount will be appreciated! Would you like to submit a story, joke, tid-bit, tip, etc? Please send your submissions to Carrie Galligan to the address above, or you can send by email to cgalligan@wexfordcoa.org. Please note: Submissions may or may not be included in the News and Views, but we love to hear from you! Thanks!