SSVM_Golden Echo_062426

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

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Golden Echo

A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies

VOLUME 19 • JULY 2026 • EDITION 7

At the Whiteside County Senior Center ...

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Have you signed up for your 2026 memberships yet?

If not, we can help with that! Membership for one person is $25 per year. For two people in the same household it’s $35 per year. We accept cash, check, or card. The yearly Senior Center membership gives you discounts on our trips, quarterly members-only events, and a sense of belonging!

100 W. Second St., Dixon 815-288-9236 www.leecountycouncilonaging.net and on Facebook

1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling 815-622-9230 Find us online at www.wc-seniorcenter.org & Facebook

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GOLDEN ECHO

By Susie Welch The Lee County Council on Aging is continuing to provide a wide variety of educational, wellness, and social opportunities for seniors throughout the summer months. From technology classes to exercise programs and local history presentations, there is something for everyone at the Senior Center.

One exciting upcoming opportunity is a special three-part educational series led by DHS teacher Gary Seibel. The classes will

focus on helping seniors learn how to safely and confidently use grocery delivery services from the three grocery stores serving Dixon. Many older adults are interested in home delivery services but are unsure how to navigate

From the WCSC Executive Director

By Emily Hammer Board Meeting We would like to thank everyone on our Board of Directors! All of the members on our board are volunteers who take time out of their busy schedules to help better our Senior Center. Their dedication, commitment, leadership, and support truly make a difference!

The next Board meeting will be on

the apps, websites, payment methods, and ordering systems. Gary will walk participants through the process stepby-step and answer questions in a relaxed learning environment.

The grocery delivery class schedule includes: • July 6 – Walmart grocery delivery • July 20 – Aldi grocery delivery • July 27 – County Market grocery delivery These classes are expected to be extremely helpful for seniors with mobility limitations, transportation concerns, or anyone simply wanting to learn how technology can make everyday living easier and more convenient.

The Senior Center is also pleased to welcome local historian and author Tom Wadsworth on July 13 at 1 p.m. for a presen-

tation titled “How’d Dixon Get Religion?” Tom is well known throughout the area for his engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of local history.

His presentation will explore the early churches, religious leaders, and faith communities that helped shape Dixon’s history and culture over the years.

July 22 at 12:30 p.m. in the Dining Room.

Golden Meals Golden Meals is a local non-profit organization that provides $3.25 meals to our 60-plus senior community and $6.25 meals for our 59 and younger community, Monday through Thursday at our site. Please watch the menu calendar as they will also be providing meals on select Fridays. The Golden Meals calendar will be posted on our Facebook page and sent out in our monthly member’s newsletter. Thank you to everyone who has been coming for lunch! The turnouts have been great, and the food is always super yummy!

Outreach Walk-in appointments are available on Monday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., and scheduled appointments are available

Golden Echo published monthly by Sauk Valley Media, 113-115 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021, in cooperation with the Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center.

Golden Echo disclaims any liability for any advertisements published herein and in no way endorses or guarantees these ads.

Press releases of interest to seniors will be accepted at 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021; or 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. Deadline for submission is the 15th of each month.

Golden Echo does not discriminate in admission to programs or treat-

In addition, Nancy Wadsworth will return to the Center on July 16 at 2 p.m. for another popular Make-and-Take craft class. Participants will create decorative Seashell Succulents while enjoying a fun afternoon of creativity, conversation, and fellowship. The Make-and-Take classes continue to be well attended and provide seniors with an opportunity to socialize while trying something new.

The Lee County Council on Aging also continues to offer several weekly programs focused on health, wellness, and social connection.

• Coffee Klatch is held every Monday at 10 a.m. and has become a favorite gathering time for seniors to enjoy coffee, conversation, laughter, and friendship.

• Chair Yoga with Brandan continues to grow in popularity and is offered Mondays at 11 a.m., Wednesdays at 1 p.m., and Thursdays at 1 p.m. These gentle exercise classes help improve flexibility, balance, mobility, and overall wellness while remaining accessible for all ability levels.

on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. For any questions, please call our Outreach Department at 815.622.9230 ext. 131.

Monthly Medicare Tip You can add additional coverage to government-sponsored Original Medicare. For example, many people add a Medicare Part D plan to help with prescription drug costs. These plans are offered by private insurance companies. If you have a Medicare Supplement plan, you also may be able to add Dental and Vision coverage. This is called a Plus Plan. Not all companies offer this extra, but many do.

If you have questions, please call Outreach at 815-622-9230.

Caregiver Tip We all know that caregiving is

ment or employment in programs or activities in compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act; the U.S. Civil Rights Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; the Age Discrimination Act; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; and the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you have a right to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Aging. For information, call 800-252-8966 (Voice & TDD), or contact the director of Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021 or telephone 815-288-9236; or Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081 or 815-622-9230.

Brandan also assists participants with the Senior Center’s recumbent exercise bicycles on Mondays and Fridays beginning at 10 a.m. Seniors can receive one-on-one assistance and encouragement while working at their own comfort level using the equipment.

• For those looking for a fun way to stay active, Beginner Line Dancing with Cheryl is offered the first and third Tuesday of every month. Participants enjoy learning easy dance routines in a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. In addition, Workout Wednesday is held every third Wednesday and features senior-friendly exercise activities focused on movement, cardio, and overall fitness.

The Lee County Council on Aging remains committed to providing programs that encourage healthy aging, continued learning, social engagement, and community involvement for older adults throughout Lee County.

For more information on programs and activities or to register for upcoming events, contact the Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236.

stressful and here are a few more ways to manage caregiver stress: • Ask for and accept help. Make a list of ways in which others can help you.

• Focus on what you can do. At times, you might feel like you’re not doing enough. But no one is a perfect caregiver. Do the best you can do.

• Set goals you can reach. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Make lists of what is most important.

• Get connected. Learn about caregiving resources in your area. You might find caregiving services such as rides, meal delivery, house cleaning, or a caregiver support group.

Please reach out for more information at 815-622-9230.

The senior centers do not require duration of residency or citizenship as a condition of participation in any services or programs funded by the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Residency or citizenship may be a requirement for other programs that the senior centers may provide assistance with in application or accessing of same. Services are made available, in part, with funds provided under Title III-B of the Older American Act, and the Illinois General Revenue Funds, through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. We are a United Way-funded agency.

SHAW MEDIA Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

From the LCCOA Executive Director

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Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

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GOLDEN ECHO

CONTACT INFORMATION

DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOU’S WCSC welcomes members James Boesen Robin Clifton Sharon Leesman

Patricia Pessman Verne Pessman John Rubright Glen Schantz

Nina Schantz Roxanna Schultz Barbara Spease

WCSC volunteers and supporters Donations, volunteers & thank you’s Kim McMahon of Citadel Lifescape Sauk Valley Food Bank Riverbend Food Bank Sauk Valley Bank Volunteers Bimbo/Curt Wade Gene & Cathy Jacoby Gabriel Tapia of Ink on the Left John Brundage of Beacon of Hope United Way of Whiteside County NIAAA The Family of Doris Harper

Volunteers Charles Atchley Linda Barber Barbara Becker Chris Brown Adela Cantu Nedra Chandler Dave Geil Butch Hannan Chris Leisner Norma Medrano Chris Meier Marilyn Meller LuAnn Meyer

Deb Mortonson Jewelene Pratt Nazir Qureshi Jeanette Rhoades Don Riva Marge Sadowski Neal Shipley Ian Smith Diane Tackett Gary Tompkins Jon Wetzell Mary Lou Wells Ginny Whitebread

LCCOA welcomes members Benefactor Pine Creek Christian Church Sponsor Addus Health Care The Meadows of Franklin Grove Help at Home Partners Kathy Peterson Eric Peterson Ron Chamberlain Lucy Chamberlain

Viola Township Serenity Hospice & Home Members NIAAA Reagan Mass Transit OSF Rep Fritts Tri County Opportunity Councils LCHD Countryside Manor Prairie State

Pat Driessen Gil Povilaitis Agnes Povilaitis Allure Emily Yurgil Jeanine Davis Mary Murphy Edward Boyer Merlin Willard Judith Willard Mary Foley

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers and supporters Thank you’s Pine Creek Christian Church Walmart Leydig Center Kreider Cheryl Moeller Rock River Garden Club Laura Hoyle Dianne Frye Gyrlee Kobler Tina Maldonado Roberta LeMoine Dan Leake Sarah Mayer David Nelson

Mary Thomas Dixon Library Discover Dixon Amanda Carroll Marcus Cox Kathy Marine Greg Currens June Fordham Kelli Chambers Alisa Wolf Nancy Gates Nancy Wadsworth Tom Wadsworth Terry Christian Glen Hughes

Joe Fornero First Assembly of God Church Mauren Broers Cathy Reglin Sauk Valley Food Bank Regan Mass Transit United Way NIAAA Allure Addus Health Care Judi and Phil Callison HealthCare Plus Heritage Woods Bonnie Stradley Allure

100 W. SECOND ST., DIXON, IL, 61021 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday Main number: 815-288-9236 Transportation: 815-288-9236 (7 a.m.-5 p.m.)

E-mail: info@leecoaging.org Online: www.leecountycouncilonaging.net and on Facebook POST HOUSE BALLROOM 815-288-0892 Online: www.posthouseballroom.net OUTREACH DEPARTMENT Outreach services and free phones for hearing impaired Outreach hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

LCCOA BOARD MEMBERS & OFFICERS Dianne Frye — Chair | Marcus Cox — Vice chair Terry Christian — Board Secretary | Alisa Wolf —Treasurer Board members: Amanda Carroll, Kelli Chambers, Greg Currens, June Fordham LCCOA SENIOR TRANSPORTATION 815-288-9236 (press 1) REAGAN MASS TRANSIT Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday 888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117 Fares: (within zip code) Ages 5 & under (must be accompanied by an adult): $1 one way Ages 6 to 59 years: $2 one way Seniors or individuals with a disability: $1 one way (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program) Out-of-town trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 35 cents per mile, maximum $5.

1207 W. NINTH ST., STERLING, IL 61081 Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday Information: 815-622-9230 Toll-free: 888-622-9230 Email: info@wc-seniorcenter.org Online: www.wc-seniorcenter.org and on Facebook.

AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER (ADRC) 815-622-9230 OUTREACH DEPARTMENT Outreach services and free phones for hearing impaired.

Satellite locations are by appointment only. Please call 815-622-9230 to schedule your appointment.

WCSC BOARD MEMBERS AND OFFICERS Karla Burn — President Lyndi Lemay— Secretary | Ronda Borgmann — Treasurer Board members: Pam Fluck, Le Hartman, John Booker, Julie Morse, Marge Sadowski, Gene Jacoby, and Butch Hannan

33 SHAW MEDIA Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

GOLDEN ECHO: WCSC

Enjoying the day at WCSC!

SM-ST2330845 SM-ST2086743

GOLDEN ECHO: LCCOA Walking, talking, and making new friends! LCCOA’s Walkie Talkies group hits the pavement to enjoy exercise and conversation together.

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

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Pedaling toward better health! Members keep moving and build endurance during exercise bike sessions at LCCOA.

Midweek motivation in action! Participants gather each month for Workout Wednesday to stay strong, energized, and connected.

Step by step and side by side — seniors fill the room with movement, laughter, Seniors practice gentle movement and stretching during Chair Yoga at Lee County Council on Aging.

and plenty of fun during line dancing.

GOLDEN ECHO

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Make-and-take Tuesday: July Mocktail

Sober seniors

Tuesday, July 14 — 12:30 p.m.

Come and see what Devon has planned!

Painting with Marge

Trip meeting

big room.

Wednesday, July 8 & 22 — 9:30a .m.

Marge will be teaching a canvas painting class in our

Please note: There will be no Trip Meeting in July.

Monday, July 27 — noon Seniors often need support to maintain sobriety. The Senior Center is a great place with compassionate employees who are able to interact with clients and help them get the resources they need to stay healthy and sober.

Coffee, Cookies and Convo

Tuesday, July 28 — 12:30 p.m.

Please join Devon for this great social event — see you then!

Breakfast Club

Please note: There will be no Breakfast Club in July.

Weekly activities at WCSC For the latest updates and daily activities, please go to our “Whiteside County IL Senior Center” Facebook page

Jeopardy

Wednesday, July 1 — 12:15 p.m.

Eat your Smarties for breakfast and head over to the Center to put your skills to the test!

Foot clinic

Wednesday, July 1, 8 & 22 — 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 or Sharon at 815-718-5294 to set up an appointment.

Hand and Foot card game Thursday, July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 — 12:30-3:30 p.m.

This will take place in the dining room.

Knitting Club

listen to great music!

Vets breakfast

Friday, July 10 — 9 a.m.

Film Friday

Friday, July 10, 17, 24 & 31 — 12:30 p.m.

We have a great lineup of films, and you can’t beat delicious fresh-popped popcorn!

Mexican Train Dominoes Friday, July 10, 17, 24 & 31 — 12:30-3:45 p.m.

Bunco

Monday, July 13 & 27 — 12:30 p.m.

Wheel of Fortune

Tuesday, July 7, 14, 21 & 28 — 12:30-3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, July 15 — 12:15 p.m.

Buy a vowel and solve our puzzle! See you then!

Euchre

Phone-friendly Friday

Tuesday, July 7, 14, 21 & 28 — 12:15-3:45 p.m.

Bingo

Wednesday, July 8 & 22 — 12:15 p.m.

Bingo is a blast! Great prizes, great people, and lots of fun! See you there. Please bring a $1 donation for the Food Pantry!

Line dancing

Friday, July 10, 17, 24 & 31 (Advance classes 10-11 a.m. / Beginners 11 a.m.-noon) Our line dancing group is moving and grooving with a great group of people lately! Not too sure about dancing? Pull a chair up and watch all of the fun and

Fridays — 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Needing some help with at pesky cell phone? Each Friday, Devon will be available to answer any questions or help with things on your iPhone or Android cell phone. No appointment needed!

Computer/Technology assistance Monday-Thursday 8:30-11:30 a.m.

If you would like a specific appointment for one-on-one time, please call the Center and speak with Neal.

Food pantry

Every Thursday — 1-3 p.m.

Sign-ups start at noon and you must be here in person to sign up. Everyone is able

to go through the closet weekly to get meat and other great items! We are needing grocery bags. If you have any that you are not using, we will gladly take them!

intensity, and range of motion. The Center can provide a yoga mat and chair if you do not have your own! See you there!

Learn to Quilt

Tuesdays and Thursdays — 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Patrick Stramka teaches this gentle form of exercise that combines slow, flowing movements, deep breathing, and relaxation. These movements improve balance, flexibility, strength, and coordination. Cost: $10/month for members | $20/month non-members.

Please note: There will be no Learn to Quilt during July.

Pinochle

Monday, Wednesday & Friday — 12:30-3:45 p.m.

Pool table

Mondays — 9-10 a.m. | Tuesdays — 1-3:45 p.m. | Wednesdays — 9-10 a.m. | Thursdays — 1-3:45 p.m.

Yoga

Tuesdays and Thursdays — 10-11 a.m.

This group is growing and has really become a large event! This yoga class accommodates all levels of balance,

Tai Chi

Board game bonanza

Tuesdays — 12:30 p.m.

Join us every Tuesday to play a new board game and meet some new friends! Have a game you love to play and want to share it with others? Bring it on in and teach us how to play!

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SHAW MEDIA Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Special Events at WCSC

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

SHAW MEDIA

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GOLDEN ECHO

Special Events at LCCOA

Workout Wednesday

Bingo

Wednesday, July 1 — 11a.m.

Cheryl Moeller, owner of Centerstage Dance Company for 37 years, teaches a fun workout class at her studio, featuring full body movement and gentle workout — including some seniorfriendly cardio. Alternative movements offered if needed, such as knee-friendly versions of a move.

Friday, July 10 — 10:30 a.m.

Sponsored by Allure. Donuts will be available, and you can win valuable prizes!

Easy grocery shopping

Tuesday, July 14 — 1 p.m.

Monday, July 6, 20 & 27 — 1 p.m.

Learn to shop at local grocery store from your phone.

Caregivers Support Group Tuesday, July 7 — 2 p.m.

Join us for a free Caregivers Support Group designed to provide encouragement, practical guidance, and valuable resources for family caregivers. Sponsored by Serenity Hospice.

Beginners line dance with Cheryl Tuesday, July 7 & 21 — 11 a.m.

Daily

Tom Wadsworth Presents Monday, July 13 — 1 p.m.

Popcorn will be served.

Book Club

Coffee with the mayor

Wednesday, July 15 — 9 a.m.

Enjoy conversation, a cup of coffee and donut with the mayor.

Breakfast Club with Brandan

Friday, July 17 — 9 a.m.

Help Brandan as he leads a group of seniors in a tour of Lee County breakfast shops once a month. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and what a great way to get out into our community and make new friends — then come back to the Center to play Wheel of Fortune! You must be a senior

and be responsible for your own bill and transportation. RSVP to 815-288-9236.

Wheel of Fortune

Friday, July 17 — 11 a.m.

Do you enjoy solving the puzzles while watching Wheel of Fortune? Come to the Center and win prizes. (Want to buy vowels? Bring quarters!). Sponsored by Heritage Woods

Refill my Cup

Tuesday, July 21 — 1 p.m.

Sponsored by Addus. A practical four‑part series on caregiver burnout. This professional, educational series is designed to support caregivers by addressing stress, fatigue, and burnout while offering practical strategies for balance and self‑care.

The Price is Right

Friday, July 24 — 11 a.m.

Sponsored by Heritage Woods. A great opportunity to win prizes by guessing the price of the items without going over!

Birthday cake

Friday, July 24 — 12:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Healthcare Plus.

Blood pressure checks

Monday, July 27 — 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Sponsored by Lee County Health Dept..

Foot clinic

Tuesday, July 28 Fancy Feet will be at the Center every month to trim nails and give foot massages. Cost: $25. Call Deb at 815-213-0324 for appointment.

Family Feud

Friday, Aug. 7 at 11 a.m.

Sponsored by Heritage Woods.

Refreshments will be served.

Make-and-Take

Thursday, Aug. 16 — 2 p.m.

Seashell Succulents. By Nancy Wadsworth.

Writers group

Monday, Aug. 17 — 1 p.m.

Writers and want-to-be writers meet every third Monday from 1-3 p.m.. This month’s meeting will be in the dining room at LCCOA. Bring a short life story, essay, poem, or other work to share.

Everyone is welcome!

Weekly activities at LCCOA

Transportation — 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Call 815-288-9236 for rides to doctor and dentist appointments, trips to the drug store, grocery store, hardware store, beauty salons, barber shops, and trips to the Center.

Congregate Lunches — Noon-12:30 p.m.

Congregate meals from Lifescapes for those age 60 and over. Call the day before by 9:45 a.m. to reserve your spot.

Library & DVD Library — 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Stop by and see the new donation of books and DVDs at LCCOA. Self-checkout and return to receptionist policy CD and Puzzle Exchange — 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Stop by and see our new donation of puzzles and CDs at LCCOA. Self-check out and selfreturn policy.

Beverage Center — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The coffee pot is always on at the Center, along with refreshing ice water. Check out our pop fridge fundraiser for repairs needed at the Center.

Mondays Coffee Klatch social hour — 10 a.m.

Exercise with Brandan — Come join our free workout program! Brandan is available to assist you with our recumbent exercise bicycles. Thirty-minute appointments are available 10-11 a.m.

Chair Yoga for seniors — 11 a.m.

Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m.

Reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day.

Rummikub — 1 p.m.

Bible Study — 1 p.m.

Tuesdays Pool table open hours — 9 a.m.-noon

Fresh produce — 9:30 -10:30 a.m.

Please bring your own bags Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m.

Reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day.

OSF Meals — 3:30 p.m.

Provided for the Lee County community.

next day.

Chair Yoga for seniors — 1 p.m.

Crafters — 1 p.m.

OSF meals —3:30 p.m.

Provided for the Lee County community

Wednesdays

Pool table open hours — 9 a.m.-noon Exercise with Brandan — Come join our free workout program! Check out our new additional equipment, thanks to Lumzy Yoga! Brandan is available to assist you with our recumbent exercise bicycles. Thirty-minute appointments are available 10-11:30 a.m.

Lunch — 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day.

Euchre — Noon Mexican Train Dominoes — 1 p.m.

Pool table open hours — 9 a.m.-noon Lunch — Noon-12:30 p.m.

Reservations needed before 9:45 a.m. for the next day.

Pinochle — Noon Chair Yoga for seniors — 1 p.m.

Thursdays Pool Table open hours — 9 a.m.-noon Walkie Talkies — 9 a.m.

Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m.

Reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the

Fridays

GOLDEN ECHO Upcoming Trips: LCCOA

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Mackinac Island AUG. 24-28, 2026 Cost per person for members: $1,104 for single, $905 for double occupancy, $885 for triple.

Cost per person for non-members; $1,154 for single occupancy, $955 for double, $935 for triple $75 will hold your seat, and final payment is due by June 15.

This five-day trip includes eight meals (4 breakfasts and 4 dinners). Highlights include: Guided tour of Mackinaw City, guided carriage tour of Mackinac Island, boat ride through Soo Locks, a visit Mackinaw Crossings, Colonial Michilimackinac, and Northern Michigan Casino. This is a Diamond Tours trip by motorcoach bus.

Discover Reflections of Italy OCT. 28-NOV. 6, 2026 Cost: $5,949 per person for single occupancy | $4,949 for double | $4,899 for triple. Deposit: $698, with final payment due July 30, 2026. Price does not include optional trip insurance.

This ten-day/nine-night trip includes 12 meals (eight breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners). Highlights include: Rome, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine

Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Assisi, Perugia, Cortona, Florence, Chianti Winery and Cooking Class, Venice, Murano Island, and Lake Como. We will stay overnight in Rome, Perugia, Florence, Venice, and Como. This is a Collette tour.

South Pacific Wonders: Australia and New Zealand MARCH 2 -16, 2027 Cost: $9,399 per person for single occupancy | $7,999 for double.

Deposit: $698, with final payment due Aug. 28, 2026. Rates per person are guaranteed until Sept. 4, 2026, for members and non-members.

Fifteen-day trip includes 22 meals (12 breakfasts, four lunches and six dinners).

Highlights include: Cairns, Great Barrier Reef glass-bottom boat and snorkeling, Sydney Harbor tour, Christchurch, Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu cruise and more, with an optional four days in Figi.

This is a Collette tour.

Alaska Discovery Land and Cruise SEPT. 8-20, 2027 Cost: $9,899-$12,099 per person for single occupancy | $6,899-$8,399 for double. Occupancy depends on cabin

choice on cruise. Deposit: $698, with final payment due by May 11, 2027.

Rates per person are guaranteed until Nov. 8, 2026, for members and nonmembers: This thirteen-day trip includes 28 meals (12 breakfasts, eight lunches and eight dinners). Highlights include: Sternwheeler Discovery, Music of Denali Dinner Theater, Denali National Park, Luxury Domed Rail, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage. This is a Collette tour.

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights Discovery NOV. 5-11, 2027 Cost: $5,299 per person for single occupancy | $4,499 for double | $4,449 for triple. Deposit: $698, with final payment due by Aug. 7, 2027.

Rates per person are guaranteed until May 6, 2027, for members and nonmembers.

This seven-day trip includes 11 meals (six breakfasts and five dinners). Highlights include: Reykjavík, Northern Lights Cruise, Search for the Northern Lights, Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, Lava Exhibition Center, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, Vík. This is a Collette tour.

ALL SENIORS WELCOME — MEMBERSHIP NOT REQUIRED! For more information on any of these trips, call the Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230.

Starved Rock MONDAY, JULY 13 Cost $110 for members | $135 for non-members We will visit Starved Rock. Lunch will be served in the Dining Room followed with a guided land and water cruise. We will depart from the Senior Center at 9 a.m. and return at 5 p.m.

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Engagement announcements, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special events For more information ...

Call 815-632-2566 | E-mail celebration@saukvalley.com

SHAW MEDIA Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Wednesday, June 24, 2026

ALL AGES WELCOME — MEMBERSHIP NOT REQUIRED! For more information on any of these trips, please call Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236.

Upcoming Trips: WCSC