The Sonya Group

09/19/2025

This week's funny!

09/18/2025

Here's a great way to spend the day...
Amana Colonies Octoberfest!

***Oktoberfest***
polka, smiles, laughter, brats
Join us for the 60th Anniversary of Amana Colonies Oktoberfest
October 2nd-5th, 2025!

And yes, you read that correctly, it will be FOUR days this year to celebrate our 60th Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies! The countdown is on and preparations are underway!

Get your ticket below!
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Tickets will be available to purchase at the entrance each day; no need to purchase in advance!

60th Oktoberfest Entertainment Schedule at the Official Festhalle Grounds
Thursday, October 2nd:
4-6pm: Alpine Thunder

6:30-7:30pm: Amana Colony Folksingers

8-10pm: Polka Police

Friday, October 3rd:
11:30am-3pm: Barefoot Becky & The Ivanhoe Dutchmen

2pm: Official Keg Tapping Ceremony

3:30pm-5pm: Polka Police

5:30pm-7:30pm: Die Tiefen Keller Kinder

7:45pm: Yodeling Contest

8pm-9:30pm: Amana Colony Folksingers

10pm-Midnight: Polka Police

Saturday, October 4th
11am-1pm: Polka Police

1:30pm-3:30pm: The Happy Players

4-8:30pm- Alte Kameraden

9pm-Midnight: The Happy Players

Sunday, October 5th
11am-11:45am: Collegium Tubum (UI Tubas)

12pm-2pm: Alte Kameraden

2:30-5pm: Malek’s Fishermen Polka Band

OTHER EVENT INFORMATION:
Oktoberfest Parade: Saturday, October 4th at 10am on Main Street Amana!
Theme: “Diamond Prost: Cheers to 60 Years!”
Parade Route: https://bit.ly/AmanaParade
Registration Form: 2025 Oktoberfest Parade Registration Form
Rain or shine!

Oktoberfest Shuttle: Back & Better Than Ever!
Times: Friday, October 3rd (10:30 am – 1:00 am) and Saturday, October 4th (8:30 am – 1:00 am)
Official shuttle stops to be announced closer to Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest Games @ Amana Market Barn
Times: Saturday, October 4th from 12:30-3:30pm
We can’t wait to see you this fall for even more fun, excitement, and camaraderie.

Until then, take care, and cheers for more great times ahead!

Parade Route for Maifest and Oktoberfest

09/08/2025

Monday funny!

09/05/2025

"America 250" Celebration!
Read below...
*The Celebration's foundation is already being laid. One of the cornerstone projects is the new Founders Museum, recently launched by the White House. Located inside the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, the museum uses cutting-edge technology-including AI-driven animations-to bring the stories of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence and other key founding-era figures to life. It also includes displays on critical moments of the Revolutionary War. Schools and community organizations nationwide can replicate the museum experience using free online materials.

*One of the signature events will be the "Patriot Games," a nationwide competition for high school students expected to launch next spring.

*On July 3, President Trump traveled to the Iowa State Fairgrounds to begin a yearlong count-down to July 4, 2026. That location will play a central role in the celebration, as part of what the administration is calling the "Great American State Fair." This proposed event-reminiscent of a world's fair-will feature exhibits from all 50 states and serve as a patriotic showcase of American history, culture, and achievement.

*State fairs across the country will also be getting in on the action.

*It's not just about big events. Officials say everyday Americans are key to the celebration. Whether it's flying the flag, hosting a July 4th block party, cleaning veterans' graves, or sharing stories of the nation's founding with grandchildren.

*Finally, a nationwide "Great American Road Trip" is also underway, with 250 stops identified across the country-from iconic historical landmarks to scenic wonders. Americans are encouraged to visit as many as they can, embracing the beauty and richness of our nation's story!

09/05/2025

Interesting conversation about Medicaid with State Auditor Rob Sand!

07/07/2025

I've been getting a lot of questions about Medicaid from the seniors I speak with every day!

Medicaid benefits for 65+ and those adults who are disabled and need long term care are not affected by the Big Beautiful Bill that passed in Washington.

The cuts they are making are for those who can work but take advantage of a very broken system. Also, illegals are not going to be entitled to Medicaid insurance.

I'm looking to not only the Federal Government to cut waste, fraud and especially abuse of the system but the State of Iowa to do the same!

Sonya

06/10/2025

Great time at the Aging Seminar & Resource Fair in Waverly IA today!

03/29/2025

https://youtu.be/3QIonHjd7sw?feature=shared

"Today, we’re discussing 11 common signs that your aging parents might need help at home. These warning signs often go unnoticed, so we’ll walk through each ...

03/27/2025

Great time at a Senior Resource Fair in Oelwein!

03/17/2025

This week, I found an interesting magazine (print & online) - Eldercare Review. I always believe it is a good idea to keep learning, no matter how old we are!

It is called ElderCare Review.

Eldercare Review Magazine offers valuable insights from gerontologists, geriatricians, and experts in the field, aiding families and caregivers

03/03/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Hi4YR1DNr/

02/22/2025

Brought to you by Sydney at Happy at Home Consulting!

Fall Prevention Tip of the Month

Nighttime bathroom trips are common, and the risk of falling increases in low-light conditions. Many older adults rely on their vision and familiar routines to navigate their homes, but inconsistent lighting can create unexpected hazards. A well-lit environment tailored to individual needs can significantly reduce fall risk.

When selecting a lighting solution, consider:
• Ease of access – Can the light be turned on without requiring significant movement?
• Power source – Is there an available plug, or will battery-powered lighting be more convenient?
• Maintenance needs – Will the individual be able (and willing) to replace batteries or recharge devices?
• Light placement – Does the lighting create glare or shadows that could cause disorientation?