9-10-2023 7:18am

2023 Lifescape Senior Expo to include 'Cheers' star and SMTD

Michael McGinnis Editor

Best known for his role on the sitcom "Cheers," actor George Wentzl will be a guest speaker at the Lifescape Senior Expo in Rockford.

Actor and comedian George Wendt, best known for his beloved beer drinking character Norm Peterson on the TV sitcom “Cheers,” will be the featured guest speaker at the 2023 Lifescape Senior Expo in Rockford.

Roscoe-based Stateline Mass Transit District (SMTD) will be one of the exhibitors at the Expo, which takes place on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 at the Rock Valley College Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

At 74, Wendt is now a senior himself. He will speak from 10:30-11:15 a.m., sharing stories about growing up in Chicago, his humble beginning with The Second City, his years as “Norm” from 1982-1993, and his life in films and the theatre. He will also participate in an audience question & answer session after his presentation.

SMTD will be at Booth #306 and invites residents to “take a closer look" at the public transportation benefits offered by Stateline Mass Transit District. Representatives will be happy to visit with you to provide a better understanding of the services provided to our communities.

This year, SMTD is celebrating its 15th year serving the communities of Rockton, Roscoe, South Beloit, Rockton Township, and Roscoe Township.

Those who live outside those communities can also schedule a ride into the SMTD service area from the RMTD bus stop at Target/173 or the BTS bus terminal on Shirland Ave. in Beloit. You can register to ride online or by sending in a registration form [PDF]. For ride scheduling, call 877-561-3330. For questions, call 779-771-6778.

Anyone wishing to ride from the SMTD service area to and from the Senior Expo can do so, as it will be considered a medical trip since health screenings will be available.

In addition to SMTD, the Senior Expo will feature representatives from 75-100 companies and organizations providing valuable information for older adults and their families. Attendees can learn more about options for senior living, healthcare, managed care organizations, health and wellness services, financial management, legal issues, funeral planning, and government and social services.

The Lifescape Senior Expo will feature local businesses and nonprofits providing services to older adults and their families, as well as the community at large. Exhibitors will include companies in the health care, senior living, retirement, insurance, financial planning, home improvement, and wellness industries. The Senior Expo will also feature limited health screenings. Rock Valley College features ample parking and easy access for exhibitors and attendees.

The Senior Expo will also feature information about Lifescape’s programs, including Meals on Wheels, the Adult Day Program, Senior Choice Information and Assistance, Senior Mental Health, and Transportation Services. The event includes a 50/50 raffle, the Olivo Taco food truck, handicapped accessibility, including shuttle service from the parking lot to the entrance, and giveaways.