Happy New Year to all my fellow and future members.
Don’t be shy! Give us a try!
Make a New Year’s resolution to join the exceptional Senior Center in the Exceptional Village. The new year will bring on many new outstanding activities and events. The next three months will include luncheons, day trips and many other activities. Be sure to sign up for all that interests you.
How many of you remember the song by Gene Autry, “Back in the Saddle Again”? In my case, I would change the title of my song to “Back with the Gavel Again.” Yes, I’m back in the Advisory Board position as president here at the Sheila Ray Adult Center (SRAC).
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Donna Tognocchi for being a good leader and effective president. In one way, she makes my job easier because she kept things going in the right direction. But in another way, she makes my job very difficult because I have to follow in her footsteps. I know all the members of the board enjoyed her time as president.
As usual, I will be available frequently at the Center. Feel free to ask me any questions, or give me any positive suggestions or comments that you have. On the other hand, if you have any complaints, please take them to Vice President Barbara Brenke (just kidding!) Seriously, let’s make 2025 the best year ever at the SRAC! The SRAC is the place to be!
Keep warm!
Rod Marino Advisory Board President
SRAC Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide a safe, social environment where seniors engage in innovative and enriching programs.
Membership
Join today – You’ll be glad you did!
Member Dues $30 R / $40 NR per year, Jan - Dec 2025
Mark Marino, Treasurer Al Theede, Phone Reassurance
Jan 21
Feb 18
Tue, Mar 11
The Adult Advisory Board is composed of Adult Center members who act as the representatives for the entire membership. Each selected appointee is sworn into office by the Park District Board of Commissioners each term. Center Closed Tue, Dec 24 & Wed, Dec 25 Tue, Dec 31 & Wed, Jan 1
Lending Closet
Member Services
The Sheila Ray Adult Center manages a Lending Closet of medical equipment available to Elk Grove Village Residents and Sheila Ray Adult Center Members. Upon returning equipment, monetary donations are appreciated. The following items are available; walkers, four leg canes, single leg canes, wheelchairs and grabbers.
Days Mon - Fri Time 9am - 4pm
Phone Reassurance/Sick & Vigil
Do you know a SRAC member who is homebound or hospitalized? Call 847.364.7224 and a staff/ volunteer will send a card or letter.
Community News & Resources
Pace Dial-a-ride
To make your reservation, call 847.299.6212 one hour before you need a ride. Persons over 65 years pay a reduced one-way fare of $0.65. Hours of service
9am - 6pm, Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm, Sat
Township Dial-a-bus
EG Township offers Door-to-Door Senior Bus Service, 847.437.0300. This “Senior Bus” is for anyone 55+yrs and older, handicapped or not, living in Elk Grove Township. You must call the day before to arrange for a pickup and it will take you anywhere in Elk Grove Township.
Elk Grove Township Senior Services
Hours of service
Mon - Fri, 9am - 4pm ● Call 847.437.0300
Gratitude
Thank you Gail Carlson, Helen Leski, Al & Barbara Brenke, Carol Tonietto, Rod & Diana Marino, Steve & Nancy Wong, Cindy & Joe Schuster, Al Theede, Shirley Duggan, Casey & Dorothy Paul and Don & Annette Brust for the donations.
The Cherished Treasures gift shop is located in the Al Hattendorf Center. It is the best kept community secret! Lovely and charming treasures await you; please come and shop to see what treasures you can find.
The Cherished Treasures Gift Shop accepts gently used items for resale, please consider donating items that may be re-purposed. All proceeds benefit the Sheila Ray Senior Center.
225 E. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 Open Mon & Thu, 10am - 3pm
AARP Income Tax
AARP provides a free service that prepares tax returns to taxpayers with moderate and low income, with special attention to those aged 60+yrs. This service is completely confidential, free, and supported by friendly volunteers in our Village. All of AARP’s tax preparers are trained, tested and certified annually by the IRS. Appointments will take place twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays, starting in February 2025. (Except on Feb 19, Mar 19).
Sign-up starting January 2 by calling 847.364.7224, Al Hattendorf Center 225 E. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village, IL
MyID Bracelet Sign up
The Elk Grove Fire Dept will be at the center to register members for the free MyID Medical Bracelet, which gives paramedics access to a patient’s medical history. Please bring details on medical conditions, medication (with dosages, physician contact and any relevant information). Sign up for a time slot at customer service.
Fee $0 M / $0 R / $0 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Room #1
Date Time Deadline Tue, Feb 4 10am - 1pm Jan 31
Monthly Happenings
Community Forum
Each month we will be gathering for insightful discussions covering a wide range of topics such as health, leisure and local resources, fostering a sense of community for older adults.
Preparer Helen Leski
Fourth Tuesday of the Month at 10:15am
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Tue, Jan 28
Topic Learn how to register for programs online and other general park district topics.
Speaker Elk Grove Park District Staff
Tue, Feb 25
Topic The village manager will discuss overseeing village departments and the essential work involved in keeping the village running smoothly.
Speaker Matthew Roan, Elk Grove Village Manager
Tue, Mar 25
Topic The dermatologist will discuss the importance of consulting a specialist for skin health and the benefits of dermatology care.
Speaker Denise McNatt, Elk Grove Dermatology
P.A.S.T (Police and Seniors Together)
Our friendly Elk Grove Village Police Officer Ted Malek would like to personally invite you to the Police and seniors together meetings. Each meeting will touch base about the Elk Grove Police Department, and what is going on in our community that is pertinent to senior citizens.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Location SRAC, Main Room
Date Time Code Deadline
Fri, Jan 31 1 - 2:30pm 101304-01 Jan 27 Fri, Mar 28 1 - 2:30pm 101304-02 Mar 24
iPhone Help with Elk Grove High School
Unlock the power of your iphone with our technology class! Elk Grove High School leadership students will be available to help navigate apps, messaging and more. Sign up for a 15 minute session at customer service.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Room #1
Date Time Code Deadline Tue, Feb 11 10 - 11:30am 101329-01 Feb 9
Chat with a Lawyer
Schedule an initial legal consultation with Naumann, Agnello & Associates. Appointments will be held in 15 minute sessions, from 9:45am - 12pm.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Computer Room
Date Code Deadline
Tue, Jan 21 101605 Jan 17
Tue, Feb 18 101605 Feb 14
Tue, Mar 18 101605 Mar 14
Rules of the Road
This class is offered by the Illinois Secretary of State to help seniors review for their driving test. Officers from the Elk Grove Village Police Department teach the class. Registrants must show their driver’s license.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Dining Room
Date Time Code Deadline Mon Jan 13 1 - 3pm 101303-01 Jan 10 Mon Mar 10 1 - 3pm 101303-02 Mar 7
Monthly Luncheons
Rock n’ Roll Luncheon
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon as we celebrate the King of Rock n’ Roll with Logan Ramey’s incredible tribute to Elvis. This luncheon will transport you back to the golden era of rock and roll, featuring a menu that includes BBQ chicken and a baked potato bar. Enjoy great music and relive the magic of Elvis with us!
Fee $16 M / $17 R / $19 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Date Time Code Deadline Wed, Jan 15 11:30am - 2pm 101405-01 Jan 12
Carnival Luncheon
Celebrate Mardi Gras at our luncheon, showcasing the vibrant culture of this beloved festival! Enjoy a Cajun feast featuring chicken and sausage gumbo served with red beans and rice. Lively jazz music will be provided by Tim Wilsey.
Fee $16 M / $17 R / $19 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Date Time Code Deadline Wed, Feb 19 11:30am - 2pm 101405-02 Feb 14
The Lucky Luncheon
Lucky you - there’s a party on the horizon! Join us for a celebration of St. Joseph’s and St. Patrick’s Day. The highlight of the luncheon will be the karaoke session, where everyone will have a chance to showcase their singing talents. A traditional corned beef and cabbage lunch with all the trimmings will be served.
Sponsored by Abcor Home Health
Fee $16 M / $17 R / $19 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Date Time Code Deadline Wed, Mar 19 11:30am - 2pm 101405-03 Mar 14
Special Events
*New* Joe Hauser Educational Series
We are excited to introduce the Joe Hauser Educational Series, a program honoring the memory of Joe Hauser and made possible through a donation from his estate. Each month the series will feature a new topic designed to inspire learning and growth. Sessions are free for members, but registration is required
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Fee $0 M / $5 R / $8 NR
Armchair Travel to China
Celebrate the Lunar New Year by experiencing the sights, culture, and traditions of China from the comfort of your seat.
Date Time Code Deadline
Wed, Jan 29 1 - 2:30pm 101334-01 Jan 24
The Life of John F. Kennedy
In honor of President’s Day Jim Gibbons will present The Life of John F. Kennedy, an in depth look at JFK’s life and achievements.
Date Time Code Deadline
Wed, Feb 12 1 - 2:30pm 101334-02 Feb 7
Inside the Chicago Mob
Join Tim Wilsey as he delves into the Chicago Mob, exploring the history and stories of Chicago’s notorious mob era.
Date Time Code Deadline
Fri, Mar 7 1 - 2:30pm 101334-03 Feb 28
Bunco Tournament
Roll the dice at our Bunco tournament! Join us for a day of laughter and friendly competition. Don’t know how to play? No worries, we will go over the rules prior to the tournament. Light snacks will be provided. Prizes will be awarded to the winners.
Fee $5 M / $6 R / $9 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Date Time Code Deadline Fri, Feb 28 1 - 3pm 101320-01 Feb 25
Sheila Ray Open House
Gather with new friends for coffee and conversation as we show you what the Sheila Ray Adult Center is all about. Sit back and enjoy a performance from our very own Ambassador’s Choir Group at 2pm. Light refreshments will be provided. Everyone is welcome to attend!
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Date Time Fri, Mar 14 1 - 2:30pm
Ageless Grace
Elevate your exercise routine with a refreshing approach that adds enjoyment and engages both your mind and body. Ageless Grace is a cutting-edge brain fitness program based on neuroplasticity that activates all 5 functions of the brain. This program works by providing increased stability while seated in a chair! Please note that this class is done entirely from a chair, barefoot. Bring socks if needed.
Fee $24 M / $27 R / $32 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Instructor Sherie Shapiro
Date Time Code Deadline
Tue, Jan 7 - Feb 11 2 - 3pm 101331-01 Jan 3
Tue, Mar 4 - Apr 8 2 - 3pm 101331-02 Feb 28
Wellness
Pavilion Fitness Senior Services Track Pass
Dancing with the Band
Take advantage of the Pavilion Fitness indoor suspended track with a track pass! Visit the Pavilion Member Services desk on the second floor. Passes are available at no cost to individuals 65+yrs with proof of Elk Grove Village homeownership.
Live Music Night
Date Thu, Mar 6 • Time 7 - 9pm
Join us for an evening of fun and upbeat jazz with the Switch Time Jazz Group. Sit and listen with the crowd, or move to the music on the dance floor at Garden Terrace located in the Pavilion. This event benefits Sheila Ray Adult Center. Light refreshments provided by Jarosch Bakery.
Pay cash at the Door $5 R / $7 NR
Location Pavilion, Garden Terrace
1000 Wellington Ave., Elk Grove Village
Strength and Endurance
Increase your strength utilizing various different resistances to build your muscles and bones for better quality of life. Wear comfortable clothing for full body movement.
Fees (10 scans) $40 M / $48 R / $57 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Instructor Peggy Oddo
Days Mon Time 10:30 - 11:30am
Chair Yoga (Seated or Standing)
Improve your strength, flexibility and mobility through standing or seated yoga poses specifically adapted for seniors at any level of health and fitness. Incorporate breathing techniques, gradual stretching and relaxation in this class. Yoga reduces stress, improves circulation and builds community connections.
Fees 10 Scans $40 M / $48 R / $57 NR
Location Sheila Ray Adult Center, Main Room
Instructor Jen Malone
Days Tue & Thu Time 9 - 9:45am
Trips
Hard Rock Casino, Rockford
Test your luck at the newest Hard Rock Casino in Rockford Illinois! Receive $10 slot play credit and another $10 if you provide an email to become a new player’s club member. All bus passengers MUST bring a valid Driver’s License or state photo ID with them. Motorcoach transportation will be provided.
Age 55+
Fee $ 50 M / $55 R / $65 NR
Depart Pavilion South Parking Lot 9:30am
Arrival Pavilion South Parking Lot 4pm
Date Time Code Deadline
Wed, Jan 22 9:30am - 4pm 101536-01 Jan 12
Beautiful at Drury Lane, Oak Brook
Experience Carole King’s rise to stardom, from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated voice in music. Featuring hits like “I Feel The Earth Move and “You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman,” this production offers an emotional tapestry. We will be dining at Drury Lane in Oak Brook, Illinois and menu options will be available at registration. Park District transportation will be provided.
Age 55+
Fee $99 M/ $108 R / $118 NR
Depart Pavilion South Parking Lot 11am
Arrival Pavilion South Parking Lot 4:30pm
Date Time Code Deadline
Wed, Feb 26 11am - 4:30pm 101537-01 Feb 5
Extended Travel Trip 2025 • Holland Tulip Festival Trip Holland, Michigan
Experience the vibrant beauty of Holland, Michigan, during the tulip festival with this trip package. Step back into the Netherlands of yesteryear at Dutch Village, where Dutch history and culture come to life in the architecture, flowering gardens, canals and windmills.
Age 55+ Date Tue - Thu, May 6 - 8 Deadline Mar 1
View millions of tulips in all the colors of the rainbow at Veldheer Tulip Gardens. Your adventure includes 2 Nights Lodging, 2 Breakfast & 2 Dinners. Fee includes taxes, meal gratuities and motorcoach transportation.
Fee $599 M / $629 R / $659 NR (double room/person) Code 201540-02
Fee $798 M / $828 R / $858 NR (single room/person) Code 201540-01
Depart Pavilion South Parking Lot 8am
Arrival Pavilion South Parking Lot 6pm
Payment plan available until Jan 15, 2025. $50 deposit due at registration. Travel protection plan available and sold separately. Contact Gina Acino at 847.228.3842 or gacino@elkgroveparks.org.
8 847.364.7224
Cernan Earth & Space Center, River Grove
Join us at Triton College’s Cernan Center Planetarium for a journey through the universe, exploring ancient Greek theories and modern telescopes. After the one hour program, enjoy Q&A and visit the gift shop. Then, we’ll have lunch at the Great Escape Restaurant, lunch choices will be available at registration. Park District transportation will be provided.
Age 55+ Fee $48 M / $52 R / $62 NR
Depart Pavilion South Parking Lot 10am
Arrival Pavilion South Parking Lot 2:30pm
Date Time Code Deadline
Tue, Mar 4 10am - 2:30pm 101529-01 Feb 21
Minimal walking
Moderate walking
Sanfilippo Estate Tour, Barrington, IL
Enjoy a 3-hour docent-led tour of the elegant Sanfilippo Estate featuring Tiffany lamps, Victorian chandeliers, and the impressive American Orchestrion Room. After the tour, we’ll have lunch at Chessie’s Restaurant. Lunch options will be available at registration. Park District transportation will be provided.
Fee $85 M/ $93 R / $108 NR
Depart Pavilion South Parking Lot 8:45am
Arrival Pavilion South Parking Lot 3:30pm
Date Time Code Deadline Tue, Mar 18 8:45am - 3:30pm 101538-01 Mar 1
The symbols will allow you to make an informed decision for trip registration. 847.364.7224 9
Heavy walking
Daily/Weekly Activities
Ambassadors Choir
Come out and show us your musical abilities. This group of enthusiastic singers will perform a variety of styles and music that will bring back memories and start toes tapping.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Room #1
Every Thursday at 10:30am Ambassadors will not meet in January
Billiards
Check out our billiards room! We have two 8-foot tables, along with pub tables with chairs. Bring your own pool cue or use one of ours.
If you like a fun, friendly, exciting game, Bunco is for you. Everyone is welcome whether you are a Bunco pro or have never played. We play on the 2nd and 3rd Friday of the month.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Chit Chat Cafe
Second & Third Friday of the month at 12:30pm
Canasta
Canasta is a card game that is most commonly played by four players in two partnerships with three standard decks of cards.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Card Room
Every Monday at 9am
Ceramics
This class will introduce members to the world of ceramics. Emphasis will be placed on the design elements; of painting with color. All material provided by Sheila Ray Adult Center. After completion, items can be purchased by the individual or sold in our display case. Proceeds go back to the center.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Room #1
Every Wednesday at 10am
Chair Exercise
Join our Stronger Senior Workout Program for a gentle 45-minute seated exercise for seniors which enhances everyday life. Video is projected on our large screen. 1-3 lbs weights are available.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Main Room
Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 9am
Crafts
Get those creative juices flowing with our Chatty Crafters group. All skill levels are welcome. All material provided by Sheila Ray Adult Center.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR
Location SRAC, Room #2
847.364.7224
Every Tuesday at 12:30pm
Daily/Weekly Activities
Dominoes
Mexican Train is a modern version of Dominoes. The object of the game is for a player to play all the dominoes from his/her hand onto one or more trains, from a central hub. Some simple math is required.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Chit Chat Cafe
Every Tuesday at 1pm
Knit & Crochet
Begin your crochet adventures by learning basic terms and techniques in an easy-to-follow and approachable class! All material provided by Sheila Ray Adult Center.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Room #1
Every Monday at 1pm
Pinochle
Pinochle is a melding and trick taking game played with two teams of 2. The objective of the game is to be the first team to score 150 or more points. If you’re up for the challenge, join in every Tuesday and Friday.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Card Room
Every Tuesday & Friday at 12pm
Poker
Try your poker face with our lively group each Monday at the Sheila Ray Adult Center.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Card Room
Every Monday at 11am
Quilting & Sewing
Find your sewing identity with our friendly group. Our helpful members are like inviting a skilled tutor to your home. All material provided by Sheila Ray Adult Center.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Room #3
Every Monday at 9:30am
Shanghai Rummy
Shanghai Rummy is a type of rummy game that requires two decks of cards to be played. 2 to 4 players can play at one time. The objective is to be the first player to go out and to have the fewest points.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Card Room
Every Thursday at 2pm
RummiKub
RummiKub combines the elements of the card game rummy and MahJong. Rummikub is one of the most popular games of all time that combines luck and strategy, and changes quickly so every player has a chance to win until the very end.
Fee $0 M / $2 R / $4 NR NM
Location SRAC, Dining Room
Every Wednesday 11:30am
Wii Bowling
Wii Sports bowling is similar to normal bowling. The player attempts to knock down 10 pins with a ball through a simulated television system. Join us for a social experience.
