SVM-SS2

Closures for Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Nov. 11: Whiteside County Senior Center, Whiteside County Public Transportation, Lee County Council on Aging and Lee-Ogle Transportation System will be closed in observance of Veteran’s Day. Lifescape Community Services will be serving meals.

Nov. 24-25: Whiteside County Senior Center, Whiteside County Public Transportation, Lee County Council on Aging, Lee-Ogle Transportation System and Lifescape Community Services will be closed in observance of Thanksgiving.

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 9

• November 2016 •

Edition 1

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

feel it’s safe to say that very few people around over the past 50-or-so years have not had their lives touched by Joan Sheridan. But, to us, she is one of our founders, and I owe my very position to her and those progressive people who began this enterprise those 42 years ago. Joan passed away Oct. 2. Let us remember her with fondness and through our own good works.

Are you a veteran? Do you have a veteran in your life? Perhaps you just want to thank our vets for a job well done.

We will be honoring our area veterans on Thursday, Nov. 10 with a free breakfast and program.

Breakfast is free for veterans, and anyone who wants to honor our country’s finest, courtesy of the wonderful folks at Unity Hospice. There is no charge for anyone at this special event. As we are hoping for a large crowd, although walkins will be accepted, and the breakfast is free, we ask that you call us and reserve a spot so that we know approximately how much to order.

Many of our LCCOA members and friends got to experience one of the

great Broadway Series plays at the beautiful Paramount Theatre in Aurora when we recently ran a trip in to see “Mamma Mia.” Now, we are announcing a new trip Dec. 10 to see the stage version of the smash Disney movie “The Little Mermaid!” What a great way to share a Christmas season memory with the youngsters in your life.

This production will be great for the young and the young at heart. But, hurry, because our last trip sold out and we have only a limited number of tickets. At $50 for members ($60 non-members), this is a great bargain and includes a round-trip charter bus and Main Floor ticket.

In closing, I want to make my annual remind-

er for those on Medicare.

During this open enrollment season through Dec. 7, be sure to make an appointment early to see Ruth or Samantha and let them help you find the right plan for you. Remember that plans, and their associated costs, can change from one year to another and it is important to go through this important review every year.

Next month, we will be in full Holiday mode, and talking about “Santa’s Workshop!” Can you believe it? I opened this column wishing you a Happy Halloween. I will close by wishing you and yours a most Happy Thanksgiving at the end of the month.

Until then. ...

– Geoff

cies in the area. Without United Way’s support we could not provide the services we offer through our Aging & Disabled Resource Center and Whiteside County Public Transportation! United Way funds provide local matching funds which allow us to stretch the dollars we receive from State and Federal grants. Help our community by supporting the United Way campaign!

We are also very thankful for all of the local

organizations, businesses, groups, and individuals who provide financial and contributions-inkind to the Senior Center to assist us with our daily operations and special projects! We greatly appreciate your financial support, which allows us to maintain the quality programs and services for all of the residents of Whiteside County!

We also want to say a special thank you to all of the veterans who have served in our armed forces over the years! Don’t forget to take time to honor all of the veterans Nov. 11. The WCSC will be closed on Veteran’s Day to pay tribute to those who sacrificed for our freedom.

The WCSC will be having our Thanksgiving

lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 17, so mark your calendar and come join us for a delicious meal of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, and pumpkin pie all for a $5 donation. Bring a friend!

On Nov. 29, WCSC will be participating in “Giving Tuesday,” which is an international day to celebrate generosity! It is an opportunity for the community to give back to the nonprofit organizations that has impacted lives!

Please join us that day in supporting the Senior Center so that we are able to continue to provide our services and activities to the community. You can make a contribution by mailing your donation to WCSC, 1207 W. 9th Street, Sterling, IL 61081

or going online to our Facebook page facebook. com/WhitesideCountySeniorCenter, or at givingtuesday.org or networkforgood.org. “Giving Tuesday” will kick off WCSC’s annual membership drive and “end of the year” giving campaign!

So if you miss the “Giving Tuesday” event, please feel free to send donations directly to the WCSC or call us for more information. All donations are tax deductible! Thank you again to everyone who helps to support the WCSC! Your support is very important to us this year as government funding has decreased and we will not know our exact funding until the new State budget is in place.

By Geoff Vanderlin To those of you reading this on Monday when it arrives in the paper: Happy Halloween! We had another fantastic Monster Pancake breakfast here Saturday and no one went home hungry.

As always, we have a great schedule of activities and events scheduled this month. Please keep your Golden Echo handy, read it through, and join us for as many of them as you can. However, I would like to start out this month’s column by paying tribute to a great lady:

Joan Sheridan. Without Joan, and several other like-minded individuals, there would not be a Lee County Council on Aging as we know it today.

Because of their vision, LCCOA was incorporated on May 29, 1974. When I first moved to Dixon 26 years ago, it seemed like I read Joan’s name everywhere. Many knew of her work with the Goodfellows. Many more were touched by her through church, or the Volunteer Care Center, or the Leydig Center, PADS or CASA. I

From the WCSC Executive Director

By Doug Vandersee November means the holiday season is upon us! Thanksgiving is when we pause and take time from our busy schedules to sit down with family and friends to reminisce about the past year and everything we are thankful for in our lives! The staff members at the Senior Center are very thankful for all of the volunteers who help us reach out into Whiteside County to provide the programs, services, activities, and support to those who need our assistance.

We could not assist the number of people we do

without their time and talents! A special thank you to the volunteers who serve on our Board of Directors and staff The Emporium Thrift Center, which provides funding for the Whiteside County Senior Center. I want to say a special thanks to all of the staff members at WCSC and WCPT for the great work they do in taking care of our patrons!

You make us all look good!

We are thankful to those who support our local United Way Agency which provides funding for numerous nonprofit agen-

DOUG continued on 104

Golden Echo published monthly by Sauk Valley Media, 3200 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, IL 61081, 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 treatment 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.

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.

November 2016 • Page 2

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

AT THE POST HOUSE BALLROOM

Annual trivia event will be a fun night for all

BY CATHY REGLIN Lee County Council on Aging

Dixon Main Street’s Lunch & Learn, on Nov. 16, will serve food by Touch of Thai, and will feature Cole O’Donnell, Dixon City Manager, and it is sponsored by NRG Media.

You know the drill – good food, good conversation, and the food is only $3 if you eat – you pay nothing if you don’t eat.

On the same day, the Lee County Council on Aging is having another Quarter Madness. Look for details on the Upcoming Special Events page.

For you trivia lovers, the United Way of Lee County’s annual Smarty Pants Trivia event is Nov. 18. If you’ve never done it, I guarantee you will have a good time. Contact Jenny Koch at 815-284-3339, and she’ll get you more information and signed up.

Thanksgiving is this month and we are all thankful for all of you – your good words, your kind acts – keep it up!

If you need a beautiful place to have a get-together, look us up on Facebook, at posthouseballroom.com, for information about the building and prices as well as our event calendar, and posthouseballroom.shutterfly. com, for pictures of events held here, then email me at posthouseballroom@gmail.com, or call me at 815288-0892, and we’ll talk.

Events for November

If you need a beautiful place to host an event, go to posthouseballroom.com or find Post House Ballroom on Facebook.

LCCOA phone numbers

WCSC phone numbers

Office Hours – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday Transportation 815-288-2117 888-239-9228 Post House Ballroom 815-288-0892

Office Hours – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday

General Offices Outreach and free phones for hearing/sight impaired 815-288-9236 Toll-free 855-407-9236

LCCOA can also be reached via e-mail at lccoa@comcast.net Or via the Internet at lccoa.com or posthouseballroom.com Check us out on Facebook – Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging

Sauk Valley Media

1 – Line dancing, 10 a.m.

3 – The Stage Door Dance Classes 8 – Line dancing, 10 a.m.

10 – Exercise Classes, 9 a.m.; Zumba, 10 a.m.; The Stage Door Dance Classes, 4:30 p.m.

11 – Holiday – office closed 13 – Baby shower 15 – Line dancing, 10 a.m.

16 – Lunch & Learn, noon; Quarter Madness, 5:30 p.m.

17 – The Stage Door Dance Classes 18 – United Way of Lee County Smarty Pants Trivia 21 – LCCOA Board meeting 22 – Line dancing, 10 a.m.

24-25 – Holiday – office closed 29 – Line dancing, 10 a.m.

Transportation 815-625-7433 Information 815-622-9230

Outreach and free phones for hearing/sight impaired 815-622-9230 Toll-free 888-622-9230

Or via email at wc-seniorcenter.org Or via the Internet at wc-seniorcenter.org The Emporium Thrift Store, 15 W. Third St., Sterling – 815-535-0368

Golden Echo

November 2016 • Page 3

MEDICARE Q&A

Senior bowling at Plum Hollow in Dixon

Questions to consider when picking a Medicare drug plan

Dear Erin, Choosing a Part D plan can seem daunting because there are many points to think about. Depending on your mother’s needs, her financial situation, and her preferences, some of the following questions and guidelines may be more important than others.

One question to ask is: does this plan cover your mother’s drugs? If your mother takes a lot of prescription drugs, then choosing a plan that has her drugs on its formulary is an important first step.

A formulary is a list of drugs that a plan covers.

If a plan’s formulary does not include her drug or drugs, then she may end up paying out of pocket for the entire cost of the drug.

You can help your mother create a list of the names of the prescriptions she takes, their dosages, and whether they are brand-name or

generic. This can help you sort through plans and choose the ones that cover her drugs.

You should also ask about the costs associated with the plan. If your mother chooses a plan with a deductible, know that she will have to pay that amount out of pocket before her plan begins to cover her prescription drugs. She should also think about the most she can and wants to spend on the drug plan’s monthly premium.

The Medicare Plan Finder tool and the plan your mother is considering should provide information about the expected copays or coinsurances for the medications she anticipates taking over the next year. It is, however, difficult to estimate the exact cost of pharmacy copays and coinsurance amounts because these might change over the course of the year.

Another question to consider is, are my mother’s pharmacies preferred and in-network?Many drug plans include both preferred and non-preferred pharmacies in their networks.

Your mother might pay less for her drugs at preferred pharmacies than at nonpreferred pharmacies. If she goes to a pharmacy that’s

close to home or easy to get to, it might be beneficial to look for a plan that categorizes that pharmacy as a preferred and in-network.

Also note that some plans have a mail-order option that might have cheaper prices than the pharmacy. If your mother is interested in mail-order, she can also look for a plan that includes that option.

Lastly, your mother will want to ask, what is the plan’s star rating? Medicare uses a star rating system to measure how well Part D plans perform in different categories, including quality of care and customer service. Ratings range from one to five stars, with one being the lowest and five being the highest rating. Medicare reviews plan performances each year and releases new star ratings each fall. You

can find a plan’s star rating by using the Plan Finder tool on medicare.gov.

Star ratings are not the only factor your mother should consider when looking for a plan. Even if a plan has a high star rating, it might not be right for her if it does not cover the drugs she needs. However, star ratings can be a factor to consider once your mother finds the plans that will provide the best coverage for her.

Knowing the right questions to ask can help you and your mother choose a Part D plan that works with her needs.

– Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center, the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare.

That Keeps Growing

Plant a living memorial in honor of your departed loved one.

✿

M cC o r m c k ’s

Sharon Appenheimer Ann Barlow Cindy Gabany

3602 E. Lincolnway, (IL Rt. 2), Sterling • 626-4422

November 2016 • Page 4

DIXON

204 S. Ottowa Ave 288-2241

AMBOY

www.thejonesfh.com

303 E. Main St. 857-2611

Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers

Helen Kay Miller, Vice Chair Fred Nesbit, Secretary

Jeff Kuhn Diane Blaine Roberta Lemoine

Funeral and Burial Prearrangement and Prefinancing Available

TM

Lee County Council on Aging Board Executive Committee and Officers Doug Farster, Chair Joe Rudolphi, Treasurer

Jones F ner l Homes

A Gift of Sympathy

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Dear Marci, My mother is going to be eligible for Medicare soon.

I want to help her choose a prescription drug plan, but I’m not sure where to start.

What are some questions she should consider before signing up for a Part D plan?

– Erin (Clark, New Jersey)

Individual high scores for the month of September:

Game Series Dennis Breene............................ 232 ........................ 510 Korona Burkitt............................ 147......................... 410 Norma Burmeister..................... 169......................... 444 Joe Coffey.................................... 171......................... 429 Chico Contreras......................... 201......................... 551 Charlotte Dierdorff.................... 164......................... 421 Dan Dunphy............................... 228......................... 558 Julie Helfrich............................... 154......................... 436 Dick Janssen............................... 199......................... 559 Bob Joyce.................................... 201......................... 536 Darrell Kitsmiller........................ 203......................... 541 Bruce Kleinmaier....................... 176......................... 492 Pat Kleinmaier............................ 156......................... 457 Jan Kuepker................................ 153......................... 424 Ray Maakestad........................... 165......................... 437 Ken Masters................................ 244......................... 604 Ron Odenthal............................. 203......................... 545 Larry Reed................................... 178......................... 453 Louise Reed................................ 132......................... 366 Linda Richards........................... 202......................... 494 Rich Senn.................................... 191......................... 474 Jim Shurman.............................. 179......................... 504 Alan Stephens............................. 153......................... 384 Terri Stephens............................ 125......................... 324 Dave Stewart.............................. 182......................... 500 Glenn Stroh................................ 158......................... 465 Ed Webb...................................... 134......................... 358 Shirley Webb.............................. 119......................... 306 Jay Wolfe..................................... 180......................... 491 Good exercise! Great fun!! Great fellowship!!! We play from 9 to 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday morning at Plum Hollow Lanes in Dixon.

Teresa Brunick Nancy Varga Donna Newman

Lori Cortez, President Wilbur Mennecke, Treasurer Janice Bell Robbin Blackert John Espinoza

Golden Echo

Kelly Wilhelmi, Vice President Michele Miller, Secretary

Al Campbell Emily Dykstra

Janet Mennecke Sheila Martinez Karla Burn

Sauk Valley Media

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers Thank you to WCSC volunteers Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and nonmonetary donations. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations.

Lee County Council on Aging Diana Owens Jean Elder Petersen Healthcare Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Jill Horn Harvey Williams

Sassy Steppers Jeff Barnes Unity Hospice of Western Illinois Thrivant Financial Sandy Woodin Sandy Crane Eva Cowley Dave Long Cindy Gabany Kenneth Burnell Linda Brechler Sandy Crane

ANONYMOUS DONATION AT LCCOA For the second time this year, an anonymous donor dropped $100 in one of our donation boxes last month. A big “Thank you” to this person for recognizing the value of LCCOA services.

Your generosity is truly appreciated!

Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and non-monetary donations. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations.

Sauk Valley Food Bank Kroger County Market

and Bus 3: Thank you for the cards, money, heartfelt words, flowers, and food that you have given me and my family since my husband Robert

Meenen’s passing. We truly appreciate you all for all you have done.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

– Betty Meenen and family

WCSC welcomes members

Kathy Morley

John E. Morley, Jr.

Kathi Rowton

We would like to thank the people who recently paid their WCSC membership dues Randall and Karen Baszynski Albert and Tina Benson Kellye Clifton Robert and Sally Davis David and Pamela Drane Chris Gibler

Private Suites Available

Donna Itken Steven and Denise Janssen Michael and Christy Keefer Anna Smith

Dale and Nancy Usterbowski Margaret Walls Edward and Gloria Weeks Robert and Sandra Wolfe

34 Years of Service Built on Honesty, Integrity & Service • Home Heating • LP Gas Heaters • Gas Grills • Hot Water Heaters • Grain Drying

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munity Center, Fulton Walmart Distribution Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Center Regency Care of Sterling Mary Jane Bond Phyllis Lutyens Nancy Weidel Gina Zolli Jenny Wolf Warren Baxter Nancy Surdez

Thank you to volunteers, friends Thank you to the employees and volunteers and all the people who come to the Senior Center, and all the people on the New York City Trip – Bus 1, Bus 2,

LCCOA welcomes new members

A ll T h

Sterling Pavilion Rock Falls Rehab CGH Home Nursing Gaffey Home Nursing Sauk Valley Senior Living & Rehab Center United Way Prophet Manor, Prophetstown Erie Pubic Library Odell Public Library, Morrison Robert Fulton Com-

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

24-HOUR SERVICE • 7 DAYS A WEEK Located on Rt. 26 2 miles south of Polo Business: 815-946-3081 Home : 815-946-3080

November 2016 • Page 5

You Have the Control

SIT, STAND OR RECLINE At the Touch of a Button

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November 2016 • Page 6

320 Locust, Sterling 815.625.0487 Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

AT WCSC

AT WCSC

Notes from the Kitchen Hello from The Emporium November, what a busy and exciting month we have. On Friday, Nov. 11, we will be closed at the center to honor Veterans Day. Do what you can to thank your veterans, whether it is to cook a meal, wash their dishes, rake their leaves, sit down and talk, but honor their sacrifice. Especially

moments when words can’t sooth, your kindness will be richer than gold. What better way to jump start our Thanksgiving Day. Many will leave out of town for the holiday and winter, so I thank you all now and hope you all a Merry Thanksgiving. The Center will be celebrating our Thanksgiving meal

on Thursday, Nov. 17.

We will be having turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce. I hope you can join us! We will be closed on Nov. 24 and 25. Thank you all, and Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the Center. – San Juana Escobar

AT LCCOA

Looking for something new to do?

Let’s put an end to the winter blues!

We currently have an individual who would like to play, or even teach you how to play Chess. Interested persons should contact the center at 815-288-9236 Have an idea for something new and fresh?

Looking to start a group

or want to teach someone something new?

Let us know and we are happy to get the word out. Together, we can squash the winter blues and get people out socializing and moving during these upcoming cold days. Remember

the Lee-Ogle Transportation System is available for a nominal fee and is a curb to curb service, so no parking required and warm buses to transport you!

LOTS transportation number is 815-2882117.

Thrift Center

Hello. It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood. I hope it is in yours.

These past few days can’t get much better.

The leaves are all turning on their fall colors.

Just enjoy all the splendor of each day.

Now to the business at hand. We at the Emporium Thrift Center are so grateful for all the continued support of all

the local and adjoining communities. It’s awesome!

From the beginning the mission of The Emporium is to provide a service that would benefit a local organization. Which is the Whiteside County Senior Center. With all the donations that come in we were able to fulfill that mission: to offer quality merchandise at

an affordable price. We have strived to do that with volunteer labor.

We are open 35 hours a week with 18 or 19 volunteers filling those hours.

We accept cash or check as payment. No credit/ debit cards are accepted.

Our policy is also no layaway, no returns and no exchanges.

Stop in. We will be glad to serve you.

The Emporium Thrift Center 115 W. 3rd St., Sterling 815-535-0368 Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed on Wednesdays

Like us on Facebook Check out the website from the Whiteside County Senior Center.

Also check out Channel 5. for more information.

This summer Walnut Manor Nursing Home Â? Â? Â? Â? Â

™

Our name is changing, not our mission.

The health care needs of today’s seniors are changing.

And, we are changing too!

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To learn about senior housing in Prophetstown and get your first month free, call (815) 537-1172

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All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

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Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

November 2016 • Page 7

AT SUBLETTE HEALTH FAIR RIGHT: Ruth Mammen, the LCCOA caseworker for the Sublette community, discusses services with an attendee of the Sublette Health Fair. Ruth and LCCOA would like to thank all of the sponsors, Country Village Meats, Bonnell General Store, and Pioneer State Bank; Jim Mammen for making the barbecue; as well as all of our participating vendors.

LCCOA would also like to thank the OLPH Hall for the use of their facility and of course all of the attending individuals from the Sublette community.

We hope to see you next year!

LEFT: Congratulations to our winner, Margarett Bonnell at the Sublette Health Fair.

Margarett was in attendance when we pulled her ticket. She served the delicious barbecue.

Congratulations and thank you, Margarett!

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November 2016 • Page 8

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

WCSC AT HEALTH FAIR

Sterling Hearing Aid Center Inc. 603 Freeport Rd., Sterling, IL

The WCSC Health Fair 2016 was a huge success.

More 25 tables were set up for the community. Information from chiropractor services to assisted living facilities were available for people to learn more about. If you missed it this year, keep your eye out for next year.

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Golden Echo

November 2016 • Page 9

Outreach at LCCOA Part D Continues …

Just a reminder for everyone, if you have not turned in a list of your current prescription medication’s you need to get them in soon if you’re wanting us to check your plan and make sure it’s the best plan for you for 2017! We need a complete list of current prescription medications, with correct spelling, dosage and quantity. We also need your Medicare information, date of birth, address and phone number. Drop it off with our receptionist with an attention line and your caseworker’s name, or if you do not know your caseworkers name then just put to “Outreach”.

You may also mail your lists to LCCOA at 100 W. 2 nd St. Dixon, IL 61021.

Remember Part D Annual Open Enrollment goes only until Dec. 7, don’t wait until the last minute or you might miss out.

Looking to the future…

With the year rapidly finding its way to the end, we wanted to remind everyone how important

it is to keep an eye on your mail box. You will be receiving many pieces of important information between now and the end of January, including information from your Insurance companies, LIHEAP (for those who’ve applied), important tax documents, etc.

One of the most important of these things are the tax documents. Many people who are no longer required to file taxes seem to have a tendency to throw these documents out, thinking they aren’t going to need them since they do not file taxes. This is not true. You should always keep these documents. Every year we hear the same thing from many people, that they don’t receive a social security 1099 because they don’t file taxes, however, everyone on social security receives one.

They are required by law to send you the information. This statement will be a trifold paper with perforations on the sides.

It states the year it’s providing income proof for (2016) on the left side and above that it states Form SSA-1099. Please do not throw this document out

as it is required for various programs we might be able to help you with.

Without this information we might not be able to assist you. Social Security no longer will re-print a 1099. In addition to the SSA statement, you will need to keep all 2016 tax documents as your proof of income, even if you are not filing taxes, as we might occasionally need to see just one document.

We also want to remind you that we are here to provide assistance with your County Tax Assessment Freeze / Senior Freeze, Benefit Access Application, LIHEAP, Extra Help and Medicaid/QMB/ Snap benefit paperwork and/or re-up paperwork.

ITAC Reminders…

DOUG t

We will be hosting a variety of special events during November so please check the Echo for more details. Also, Medicare Annual Enrollment has begun so don’t forget to call and make your appointment with the

WCSC ADRC-Outreach staff to review your policy choices and get the best option available to help you during the coming year. Enrollment ends Dec. 7 so please contact us soon for your appointment.

November looks like another busy month at the Senior Center! Please come join us if you see

November 2016 • Page 10

Getting ready for Christmas!

WCSC is getting ready for Santa’s Workshop – set for 8 a.m. to noon Dec. 10. If anyone has any slightly used items that you would like to

any activity or program that catches your curiosity! We guarantee you will have a great time at the Senior Center! The Senior Center will be closed Nov. 24 and 25 for Thanksgiving to allow the staff to enjoy the holidays with their families! Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving! Until next month!

– Doug

donate, bring them to WCSC any time. We need toys, knick knacks, items for men, and other items that kids would like to shop for. Also,

we are looking for volunteers to help setup for the event the second week of December. Call 815-622-9230 for more information. Thank you.

AT LCCOA

Post House is a warming center Please remember the Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon is a warming center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Come in out of the cold and join in our many

activities and make new friends. Browse our book sale, join in and play Wii bowling, relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while reading the newspaper. The Post House Community Center is

a community building, all ages are invited to come in and check us out. We have events and programs for everyone.

If you have questions please give us a call at 815-288-9236.

AT WCSC

Amplified phones and cell phone amplifiers are available to any person of any age and there are no income restrictions. If you are someone who has a hard time hearing on your phone let us know and we will help you to obtain a free phone or amplifier.

Questions can be addressed to the Outreach Department at 815288-9236.

November a busy month CONTINUED FROM 2

AT WCSC

No iPad class; help available There will not be an iPad Class for a few months, so if anyone needs help Amy Davis is available on a one-on-one basis until the group starts again in March.

Call Amy and schedule a time to meet with her 815-990-4141 at the center. For more information, call WCSC at 815-6229230.

AT LCCOA

Gingerbread House Competition The Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging is holding a gingerbread house competition during our Santa’s Workshop event. We are looking for kids, youth and families/groups to have fun and build

Golden Echo

a Gingerbread House.

Houses will be on public display from Nov 29 through Dec. 3 in the Post House Community Center. Prizes and bragging rights for people’s choice, child 8-12 years old, youth 13-17 years old, family and group

categories. Judging will be based on originality, overall appearance, choice and use of materials and difficulty of design. For more information give us a call at 815-288-9236 or stop in for an entry form and complete set of rules.

Sauk Valley Media

Activities and Meetings Weekly Lee County Council on Aging Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 10 a.m.: Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 6 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Pinochle

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m: Computer lab 9 a.m.: Golden Kiwanis 10-11 a.m.: Line Dancing 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Pinochle

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 10 a.m.: Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Crocheting and crafting 5:30 p.m.: Overeaters Anonymous

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 12:30 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge

Whiteside County Senior Center Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Pinochle 12:30 p.m.: Crochet/Knitting Club 12:30 p.m.: Friendly Mexican Train Dominoes, $5 to play, prizes, and bring a snack

Tuesdays 8 a.m-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 10 a.m.-Noon: Commodities, must meet income guidelines 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Euchre, $2 to play, bring a snack.

12:30 p.m.: Scrabble

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 10 a.m.: Canasta 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Pinochle 1 p.m.: Bingo, check monthly with who

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Cards – “Hand and Foot” game, $3 1 p.m.: Euchre, - $3 to play, bring a snack.

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 10 a.m.: Intermediate Line Dancing – check schedule for where it is 10:45 a.m.: Beginning Line Dancing 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Mexican Train Dominoes $5 to play, prizes, and bring a snack.

12:30 p.m.: Pinochle

Monthly Lee County Council on Aging Nov. 3 10-11 a.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at Paw Paw Community Center Nov. 6 12:30 p.m.: Euchre Tournament ($) Nov. 7 2 p.m.: iPad Class Nov. 8

10:30 p.m.: Blood Pressure Checks

by Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Nov. 9 10:30 a.m.: Blood Pressure Checks by Polo Rehabilitation 1:30 p.m.: Veterans Talk 5:30 p.m.: Chiropractor Talk (Home of Hope)

Nov. 10 8:30 a.m.: Veterans Day Breakfast sponsored by Unity Hospice of Western Illinois 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Flu Clinic by Lee County Health Department Nov. 14 1-2 p.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at

Ashton Library 2:30-3:30 p.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at Franklin Grove Library Nov. 16 10-11 a.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at Amboy Community Center 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at OLPH Hall Sublette

5:30 p.m.: Quarter Madness in the PHB ($) Nov. 28 10-11 a.m.: LCCOA Caseworker at Countryside Manor Nov. 29 7:30 a.m.: Woodfield Mall shopping trip

Whiteside County Senior Center Nov. 2 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Blood pressure check by CGH Home Nursing 11:25 a.m.: Celebrating November Birthdays 1 p.m.: Bingo, Prizes by Aperian, snacks by WCSC Nov. 9 11 a.m.- Noon: Blood Pressure

Check by Gaffey Home Nursing 1 p.m.: Bingo, sponsored by Sterling Pavilion, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play) Nov. 12 1 p.m.: Sauk Computer User Group will meet with a question and answer time. There will be a short business meeting followed

with a presentation at 2:30 p.m. on Microsoft OneNote. Everyone with an interest in computers/technology are invited, refreshments will be available. Also the club will be packing Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes starting at noon.

Nov. 16 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Blood

Pressure Check by Sauk Valley Living and Rehab 1 p.m.: Bingo, sponsored by Sauk Valley Living and Rehab, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play) Nov. 23 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Blood Pressure Check by Sterling Pavilion

1 p.m.: Bingo, sponsored by Regency Care of Sterling, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play) Nov. 30 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Blood Pressure Check – TBA 1 p.m.: Bingo TBA (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Robert Fulton Community Center Come in anytime to play pool, cards, board games or corn bag toss. We have a large-screen TV, pianos, books, and puzzles to loan out, four sewing machines, two personal computers and four Macs are also available. Visit us on our website, www.cityoffulton.us, and look under the “community and government” heading!

Nov. 2: Early Out Program for children third- thru fifth-grade.

Nov. 7: Meadowview Association Meeting, 6:30-8 p.m.

Nov. 8: American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1-6 p.m.

Nov. 14: American Legion Meeting, 7-8 p.m.

Nov. 16: Foot Clinic, 8 a.m. (call for an appointment)

Nov. 17: Whiteside County Senior Center Outreach, 10 a.m. (call for an appointment) Nov. 22: American Red Cross Blood Drive, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Nov. 24-25: Closed for Thanksgiving Here’s what’s going on in Fulton:

Nov. 6: “Thanksgiving: From Pilgrims to Pioneers” at Windmill Cultural Center, 2 p.m.

Nov. 13: “The Forgotten War-Korea” at Martin House, 2 p.m.

Nov. 13: Baked Potato Bar with Dessert at Fulton Presbyterian Church, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

If you are inteerested in joining us for the above monthly activities, contact Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230 or 888-622-9230; or Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-0892 or 888-239-9228.

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

November 2016 • Page 11

Upcoming Trips Shopping at Woodfield Mall

Washington D.C. Trip

Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016 Cost: $30 members, $40 non-members

Depart Rock Falls Community Center at 7:30 a.m. and Dixon Walmart at 8 a.m.

Woodfield Mall has the finest collection of department stores and specialty shops in the Great Lakes region including Nordstrom, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, JCPenney, Sears and nearly 300 stores and restaurants. It is considered to be a “shopper’s paradise” where you will be able to find that unique gift for family or friend. This date was specifically chosen to beat the Christmas rush and weekend traffic. Your meal is on your own with a variety to choose from at the food courts. Start preparing your Christmas list and tucking away some money for a day of fun. Take advantage of the very reasonable price of the trip and invite some friends! Return at approximately 6 p.m. at Dixon Walmart and 6:30 p.m. at Rock Falls Community Center. Payment for this trip is to be made at the Post House Community Center.

Little Mermaid at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016 Cost: $50 members, $60 nonmembers

Depart Rock Falls Community Center at 1 p.m. and Dixon Walmart at 1:30 p.m. The blockbuster Disney movie comes to life in this awe-inspiring Paramount production that is perfect for the young and the young at heart. Ariel lives 20,000 leagues under the sea with her royal family that includes her father, King Triton.

Despite the breathtaking beauty of her aqua surroundings, the young mermaid only dreams of what lies above. During one of her top-side expeditions with her loyal companions – Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the seagull – the turbulent waters cause some precious cargo, Prince Eric, to be tossed into sea.

Ariel swims to his rescue and gets the Prince to safety. When he awakens in the sand, he has no recollection of how he got ashore. Determined to risk it all for her chance at true happiness, Ariel makes a deal with Ursula the sea witch.

She uses her black magic to transform the love-struck princess into a human.

But Ariel has only three days to get her true love to kiss her, and as part of the deal, while on land, Ariel will not have the ability to make a sound. If she fails at her quest, her soul and her beautiful voice become the property of Ursula.

Fun for the whole family! Bring your children or your grandchildren for a wonderful experience. Tickets for our last Paramount show sold out and you don’t want to miss this one. Make reservations today! Payment for this trip is to be made at the Post House Community Center.

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament Saturday, Nov. 12 Cost: $77 members and $82 nonmembers

Still have a few seats left – call to see. Will leave Sterling K-Mart at 10 a.m. and Dixon Shopko at 10:30 a.m. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip.

Christmas Lights in Peoria

Thursday, Dec. 1 Cost: $80 members and $85 nonmembers

Depart from Shopko at 1 p.m. and Sterling Walmart at 1:30 p.m. We will eat at Fairview Farms at 3:30 p.m. (all-you-can-eat), see the Christmas lights in East Peoria, and then see a show called “Naughty or Nice, a DooWap Christmas,” which is terrific holiday music and hilarious comedy sketches. Contact Betty at WCSC.

March 30 to April 4, 2017, 6 days and 5 nights Cost: members $597 and nonmembers $647 Insurance: $45; Can put all on one check; $75 deposit

Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stop-on guides. Features a guided tour of Washington D.C., you will see the White House, The U.S. Capitol, the National Archives, Embassy Row, Georgetown, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial, Arlington National cemetery and much more. Sign-Up begins now. Hopefully, there will be cherry blossoms to see. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

New Orleans Trip

April 29 to May 7, 2017, 9 days and 8 nights Cost: members $829 and nonmembers $879 Insurance: $69; Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required

Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stopon guides. Sights to see and things to enjoy! Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Guided Tour of New Orleans to learn about past and present of what makes this unique city a treasure. Visit the National World War II Museum, Guided Tour of a Louisiana Plantation, Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River, Gambling at Harrah’s Casino, and Dining at New Orleans Restaurant. Enjoy some shopping, music on the French Quarter or see the sights. On the way home enjoy a stop at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, Mississippi.

National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

Niagara Falls and Toronto Canada Trip

June 25 to July 1, 2017, 7 days and 6 nights Cost: members $669 and nonmembers $719 Insurance: $59; Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required

Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stopon guides. Sights to see on this fabulous trip. Guided tour of Niagara Falls and Toronto, Ontario, visit the Welland Shipping Canal, beautiful Queen Victoria Park, Visit Toronto’s majestic castle estate – Casa Loma. Enjoy a boat ride on a “Hornblower Niagara Cruise” which takes you on sail near the base of the Horseshoe Falls and enjoy an awe- inspiring view of the mighty Niagara. Before leaving enjoy your time at Fallsview Casino and Erie Maritime Museum. Don’t miss out on this one, a chance to see Niagara Falls up close! Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

Biltmore Estate & Asheville, North Carolina October 15-20, 2017, 6 days and 5 nights Cost: members $605 and nonmembers $655 Insurance: $59; Can put all on one check; $75 deposit

Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stop-on guides. Sights to see: a full day to visit Biltmore Estate, Antler Village and Winery.

Guided Tour of Asheville, St Lawrence Basilica, drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the famous Folk Art Center. On the way home visit the Kentucky Artisan Center in Berea, Kentucky. So you can explore Kentucky’s crafts, history, and shop. Sign-Ups begin Dec. 1. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

To sign up and pay or for questions, please visit or call: Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL • 855-407-9236 -OR- Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL • 888-622-9230

November 2016 • Page 12

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Sauk Valley Media

Meals for November Serving at Lee County Council on Aging Nov. 1-4 Tuesday: BBQ chicken breast, cheesy potatoes, buttered peas, dinner roll, fruit cocktail; Wednesday: Salisbury streak, mashed potatoes and gravy, coin carrots, dinner roll, sliced peaches; Thursday: Cheese ravioli with meat sauce, Brussels sprouts, waxed beans, garlic bread, apricots; Friday: A) Chicken fiesta taco, Spanish rice, cheese, lettuce, tomato, refried beans, pineapple; B) Chicken salad, tomato

Nov. 7-11 Monday: Creamy chicken with pasta, peas and carrots, baked apples, wheat bread (1); Tuesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, dinner roll with butter, fruit cocktail; Wednesday: Baked pork chop, baby red potatoes, cauliflower, tossed salad with dressing, dinner roll, apple crisp; Thursday: Baked ziti with meat sauce, steamed broccoli, carrots, apricots, breadstick; Friday: A) Crispy fish sandwich, wheat bun, potato pancakes, peas, pineapple tidbits; B) Turkey, minestrone

Nov. 14-18 Monday: Meatball sub, peas and carrots, seasoned potato wedges, mandarin oranges; Tuesday: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir-fry veggies, dinner rolls, apricots; Wednesday: Italian sausage with peppers on bun, potato wedges, Italian blend veggies, dice peaches; Thursday: Baked ham, sweet potato, green beans, dinner roll with butter, fruit cocktail; Friday: A) Beef chili mac, corn muffin, steamed cauliflower, corn, jello with fruit; B) Tuna salad, chicken rice

Nov. 21-23 Monday: BBQ riblett, wheat bun, au gratin potatoes, coin carrots, peaches; Tuesday: A) Pepper steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, Scan. blend veggies, wheat bread (2), apricots; B) Ham, vegetable; Wednesday: Rosemary herb chicken, brown rice, broccoli, applesauce; Thursday and Friday: closed for Thanksgiving

Nov. 28-30 Monday: Chicken strips, mashed potatoes and gravy, California blend veggies, dinner roll, mandarin oranges, BBQ sauce; Tuesday: Baked ziti with meat sauce, Italian blend veggies, garlic bread, hot applesauce; Wednesday: A) Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, glazed carrots, dinner roll, peach cobbler; B) Liver and onions

Serving at Whiteside County Senior Center Nov. 1-4 Tuesday: Chicken drummies, dressing, vegetable and dessert; Wednesday: Pork roast, mashed potatoes, vegetable and dessert; Thursday: Lasagna, garlic bread, salad and dessert; Friday: Chicken tostadas, rice, beans and dessert

Nov. 7-11 Monday: Goulash, garlic bread, salad and dessert; Tuesday: BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad, vegetable and dessert; Wednesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables and dessert; Thursday: Chicken Alfredo, vegetable and dessert; Friday: Closed for Veterans Day

Nov. 14-18 Monday: Spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, vegetable and dessert; Tuesday: Salmon patties, mashed potatoes, creamed peas and dessert; Wednesday: Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert; Thursday: Thanksgiving meal – Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, dressing, corn and pumpkin pie; Friday: Beef tacos, rice, beans and dessert

Nov. 21-25 Monday: Pork chops with country gravy over mashed potatoes, vegetable and dessert; Tuesday: Beer battered cod, potato, soup, salad and dessert; Wednesday: BBQ chicken quarters, hash browns, vegetable and dessert; Thursday and Friday: closed for Thanksgiving

Nov. 28-30 Monday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert; Tuesday: Sloppy Joes, chips, salad and dessert; Wednesday: Oven-fried chicken, baked potato, vegetable and dessert

Serving at Golden Meals in Whiteside County Nov. 1-4 Tuesday: Ham and beans, cornbread, applesauce, margarine, and milk; Wednesday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots, peaches, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Easy chicken casserole, cheesy potatoes, broccoli, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Chili dog, potato salad, fruit, bun and milk

Nov. 7-11 Monday: Tuna and noodles, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Tuesday: Pork fritter, au gratin potatoes, green beans, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Wednesday: Spaghetti, mixed vegetables, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Roast beef, mashed potatoes, carrots, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: All sites closed for Veterans Day

Nov. 14-18 Monday: BBQ chicken, potatoes, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Tuesday: Stuffed green peppers, rice, mixed vegetables, fruit, bread and margarine; Wednesday: Honey baked ham, sweet potatoes, baked beans, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Baked cod, scalloped potatoes, broccoli, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Beef stew, biscuit, applesauce, milk

Nov. 21-25 Monday: Chili, applesauce, cornbread, margarine and milk; Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, seasoned rice, green beans, fruit; Wednesday: Baked turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday and Friday: Closed for Thanksgiving

Nov. 28-30 Monday: Sloppy Joes, potato wedges, fruit, bun and milk; Tuesday: Ham and beans, cornbread, applesauce, margarine, and milk; Wednesday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots, peaches, bread, margarine and milk

Meals for Robert Fulton Community Center and Transit Facility in Fulton Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m.

Nov. 2: Meal catered by Prairie Hills

Nov. 4: Porcupine meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed veggie, dessert

Sauk Valley Media

Nov. 9: Meal catered by Bickford Asst. Living Nov. 11: Baked ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, roll and pumpkin pie Nov 16.: Sloppy Joes on bun, tossed salad

with dressing, chips, dessert Nov. 18: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, veggie and dessert Nov. 23: Mushroom Swiss burger on bun,

Golden Echo

buttered red potatoes and dessert Nov. 25: Closed – No Meal Served Nov. 30: Vegetable soup, deli sandwich, fruit salad and dessert November 2016 • Page 13

Transportation Funding finally affects transit Public Transportation in Illinois is fortunate with having a dedicated funding source and laws that allow public transportation to be reimbursed regardless if the State has a budget or not.

During the State financial crisis, Lee-Ogle Transportation System and Whiteside County Public Transit has been able to operate business as usually for the past year providing much needed service across the Sauk Valley. Now, we are at a cross roads where we have to make tough decisions locally based on the decisions being made in Springfield, or not being made for that matter.

Each month, 3/32 of 80% of sales tax of specific items is transferred into the State Public Transportation Account which helps offset 65% of operational expenses. The last transfer made into the public transportation account in June was for January’s allocation and everything from February 1st onward is being held. Currently, there is $156 million in payment requests across 56 public transportation agencies and continues to grow. Lee-Ogle Transporta-

tion has been reimbursed for January, February and March and will be in debt nearly $750,000 by years end. Whiteside County Public Transit has received payment for April, May and June and is currently in good financial standings to continue service as normal through the end of the year.

Decisions over the next few months will determine the future of both programs.

The delay in payments greatly affects our providers, Lee County Council on Aging, Kreider Services and Whiteside County Senior Center who are carrying the majority of the debt while being affected in other programs as well. The truth is there is currently $47,000 in the Statewide Public Transportation Account which is a far cry from the $156 million owed to all 56 transit agencies in Illinois.

While some smaller systems in Illinois have completely shut down, the larger systems in Chicago and Rockford will make it through January. We in the Sauk Valley are somewhere in between and pulling every resource we can to continue providing the much needed

service. Lee-Ogle Transportation System, now more than 7 months of not being reimbursed from the State is forced to cut services. Beginning Nov. 1, LOTS will operate Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Whiteside County Public Transit will operate as normal.

We will continue to communicate with Springfield, with the Governor’s Office, with Madigan’s Staff, with our local representation and we encourage you to raise your voice and tell us and your elected officials what public transportation means to you.

Legislative Office for Senator Tim Bivins 629 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-284-0045 District Office for Representative Tom Demmer 1221 Currency Court Suite B Rochelle, IL 61068 815-5613690 Legislative Office for Congresswoman Cheri Bustos 2401 4th Ave Rock Island, IL 61201 Phone: 815-7863406 District Office for Representative Mike Smiddy 201 N. Main Street Unit 2 Port Byron, IL 61275 (309) 848-9098

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Whiteside County Public Transportation Fares:

Fares:

(within county)

(within zip code)

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult).................. 50 cents one way

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult)............................ $1 one way

People age 6 to 59 years ............................................................................. $2 one way

People age 6 to 59 years.............................................................................. $2 one way

Seniors or individuals with a disability....................................... Donation suggested (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program)

Seniors or individuals with a disability...................................................... $1 one way (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program)

Out-of-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability......... 25 cents per mile

Out-of-town trips can be arranged, subject to availability............ 35 cents per mile

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

November 2016 • Page 14

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Upcoming Special Events Medicare Supplements – Simplified at WCSC Wednesday, Nov. 2 – 11 a.m.

Come list to Mark from Mature Health Services talk about medicare supplements. Learn how to 1. Save money, and 2. Learn which plan is best for you.

Mark will give away a gift card from Walmart too.

Council on Aging in celebrating our veterans. Start your day enjoying a free hot breakfast sponsored by Unity Hospice of Western Illinois. They are also looking for veterans to participate in the Veteran’s History Project. If you are interested in joining us for breakfast or to participate in the project please call the Post House Community Center at 815-288-9236. Hauser-Ross Eye Institute program and free hearing screening at 9:30.

Foot Clinic at WCSC

Flu Clinic by Lee County Health Department at PHCC/LCCOA

Wednesday, Nov. 2 – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Foot care will be available for all senior citizens over age 60. For appointments call Fancy Feet at 815-213-0324 Cost $25.

iPad Class at PHCC/LCCOA

Thursday, Nov. 10 – 10:30 a.m.-Noon

Bring your Medicare card and any other insurance cards you might have.

Depending on your insurance there may be a charge. No appointment is needed.

Monday, Nov. 7 – 2 p.m. – free

Do you own an iPad and are struggling with it? Come to this free class and learn the basics on how to use your iPad with ease. Volunteer teacher Jill Horn will be teaching the class. Class size is limited to 15 people, call the Post House Community Center at 815-288-9236 to reserve your spot for this free 1-hour class. Please bring your iPad.

Beginning Line Dancing at Morrison Community Center Wednesday, Nov. 9 – 10 a.m.

Anyone wanting to learn line dancing come to Morrison for these classes – starting Nov. 9. Great fun!

Veterans Programs and Services at WCSC Wednesday, Nov. 9 – 11 a.m.

Come and listen to Christine Rhoades from the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs discuss programs and benefits for veterans. She will answer questions.

There are all kinds of opportunities for veterans that she will tell you too.

Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs at PHCC/LCCOA Wednesday, Nov. 9 – 1:30 p.m.

Christine Rhoades, Veteran Service Officer from the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, will be here to discuss programs and benefits for veterans and also to answer any questions you may have. There is educational opportunities, burial benefits, health care assistance, veterans pension and widows pension plus aid and attendance for nursing home/assisted living costs and MORE available to veterans.

Wellness Recovery presentation by Dr. Carlson at PHCC/LCCOA

Veterans Presentation at WCSC Thursday, Nov. 10 – 11 a.m.

Come and listen to veterans talk about their past experiences. They will take any questions you have too. Let’s celebrate our veterans. Snacks too.

Hearing Aids Check and Clean at WCSC Wednesday, Nov. 16 – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Come and get your hearing aids checked and cleaned by Kristen from Connect Hearing. This is free, and you can ask them any questions you might have.

Price Is Right at WCSC Wednesday, Nov. 16 – 10:45 a.m.

Come play Price is Right game and guess the price of an item and take that item home. Peg Johnson from Beacon of Hope Hospice. Stay for a home cooked meal of Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable, salad, dessert and drink for only $5.

Quarter Madness in Post House Ballroom Wednesday, Nov. 16 5:30 p.m. doors open, 6:30 auction begins

Quarter Madness is a hybrid of a raffle and an auction. People “bid” to win brand new product from various home business vendors. Items are “auctioned” off for 1-4 quarters. Bidding paddles are: 1 paddle for $5, 2 for $8, 3 for $10. We will have a practice round before first auction. Bar will be open to purchase your favorite beverage and Dixon Buddy Bags will have a snack table with sweet treats, nachos and loaded baked potatoes. Sixteen vendors under one roof! This event is a great way to start your Christmas shopping. Vendors will also have cash-and-carry items.

Euchre Tournament at WCSC

Wednesday, Nov. 9 – 5:30 p.m.

Lee County Council on Aging and Hope of Hope Cancer Wellness Center welcome Dr. Steven Carlson. He will present a program we all might benefit from, Wellness Recovery. He will also discuss the causes and treatments of Neuropathy, a common side effect of cancer treatment. Please join us for this free educational program at the Post House Community Center. Call 815-288-4673 for more information.

Free Breakfast for Veterans Day at PHCC/LCCOA Thursday, Nov. 10 – 8:30 a.m.

Sauk Valley Media

Balance Presentation and Balance Checks at WCSC Wednesday, Nov. 30 – 11 a.m.

Join your friends from Unity Hospice of Western Illinois and Lee County

Sunday, Nov. 27 – 1:15 p.m.

Sign-in is 12:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per entry and 25 cents a set, with a 100 percent payback. There will also be a 50-50 drawing.

Come and listen to Judy from Morrison Hospital talk about balance and then they will do balance checks on anybody that wants to. They will offer suggestions on how to correct it. Giveaways.

Golden Echo

November 2016 • Page 15

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Wednesday, February 15

Holly Jolly Christmas, Circa ’21, Rock Island

Mamma Mia!, Fireside Dinner Theatre, Ft. Atkinson, WI

Dec. 29 – Jan. 3

March 3 – 13

Tournament of Roses Parade, Pasadena, CA

Southern Italy and Undiscovered Sicily

Wednesday, January 25

Ghost, The Musical, Circa ’21, Rock Island

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November 2016 • Page 16

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media