SVM-SS2_01272014

Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Lifescape meals will be served at LCCOA. Lee-Ogle Transportation System and Whiteside County Public Transportation will be closed.

Golden Echo A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies 6OLUME s

February 2014

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Travel with the senior centers June 1-7 Niagara Falls and Toronto Trip Cost – $639 (double occupancy) 7 days and 6 nights Aug. 28 through Sept. 5 Alaskan Cruise Cost – $2,800 (double occupancy) 7 days and 6 nights Sept. 20-28 Cape Cod Trip Cost – $808 (double occupancy) 9 days and 8 nights For details, call Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230 or Dixon Senior Center at 815-288-9236.

INSIDE Assistance Sites .................................................... 5

Thank Yous........................................................ 10

Transportation Schedules ................................ 13

2014 Spring Prom .............................................. 6

Weekly, Monthly Activities .............................. 11

Upcoming Trips................................................. 14

Post House Ballroom .......................................... 8

Meal Sites ........................................................... 12

Upcoming Special Events ................................. 15

From the WCSC Executive Director

By Doug Vandersee

F

ebruary is upon us, and it’s almost time for Groundhog Day, when we will learn if we are going to have 6 more weeks of winter!

December and January have been snowy and cold, so I hope the groundhog doesn’t see his shadow and winter will come to a rapid close.

Groundhogs spend the winter hibernating so they don’t have to go out in the cold! I hope you haven’t been hibernat-

about how to use your technology (cellphones, computers, iPad, tablets, etc.) be sure to attend this brief informative meeting.

February also means – happy Valentine’s Day! Come celebrate Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, at the ing and are keeping up senior center with a lunch with your New Year’s of meatloaf, mashed potaresolutions! I hope you toes with gravy, vegetable, are making a difference Are you always trying to dessert and drink for $5. in your life or someone remember your appointelse’s! ments, need to make a gro- We will crown the king and February is American cery list, or want someone queen for Valentine’s Day at noon. Voting will take Heart Month, so let’s start to remind you where you being more healthy! Start are supposed to be? Tech- place the prior week.

Many great people were making a difference in nology is available to help born in February, includyour life by attending the you do these tasks and ing Abraham Lincoln, Wellness Event at 11 a.m. many others. Nathan FelGeorge Washington, and on Friday, Feb. 28 hosted lows will be talking about yours truly. OK, maybe

by VCP. Learn more Project Tech, an initiaI am not as great as they about heart health along tive to help those who are with receiving blood pres- under utilizing technology, are, but we are going to sure, blood sugar and at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7. celebrate Lincoln’s birthday at 11 a.m. WednesIf you wish to know more oxygen level checks.

From the LCCOA Executive Director

By Geoff Vanderlin

W

ow! Who knew what a “polar vortex” was? But we sure found out earlier in January, didn’t we?

I suspect most of you reading this remember winters when the cold was just as bad, if not worse, than this year’s, but it’s been awhile. I think of my children, now in their twenties and thirties, and know they have little experience with this type of winter. Maybe you have some stories you’d like to share with us about winters past. Send them

to me here at the Senior Center, and perhaps we can share them in a future issue.

And, don’t forget that the Dixon Senior Center is a warming center during cold weather, and a cooling center in the summer. If you, or someone you know, needs a place to spend some time in a warm, welcoming environment, with plenty of activities or just a comfortable place to sit for a while, we are the place.

Have you bought your 50/50 tickets yet? Our

at the Senior Center or from one of our employees or board members.

Then buy more as we approach the drawing, which will be held March 12 at our annual Chili Supper.

That’s right. Our Chili Supper is right around the corner. We are looksecond annual 50/50 ing forward to this annual raffle, to benefit LCCOA gathering of friends and programs and activities, neighbors and hope you is in full swing. Tickets are have it marked on your only $1 each, or you can calendar. All members of buy a book of six tickets LCCOA will soon be receivfor $5. All the money is ing their tickets, so watch used here at the center for yours in the mail. If to continue and enhance you are not yet a member, our programs. Sales have remember that a single been brisk so far, and all adult membership is only indications are that we $20. You will receive diswill be able to give away counts, and be the first to more than the $1,900 know about events such as that last year’s winner our Chili Supper, Luau and received. Get yours today more. Plus, our members

day, Feb. 12. Study up on Lincoln and try to win a prize during Betty’s short quiz. We will be highlighting George Washington’s birthday on Thursday, Feb. 20, (his real birthday is Feb. 22, but George and I are taking the day off) with Cherry Pie Day from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., so come and enjoy lunch for a suggested $5 donation and get a “free” piece of homemade cherry pie for dessert!

Want to make a real difference in your life?

Attend the “Organizing with Heart” presentation

by Denise Wassenhove, owner of Lean on Me – Organizing with Heart, as she presents tips on downsizing, rightsiz-

ing, and organizing your home. Check out more information on the Upcoming Special Events page.

Check out the scrapbooking class at 1 p.m.

Feb. 20. Bring $5 for materials and the instructor will get you on your way making a scrapbook to keep all of your precious pictures!

At 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, we will be hosting a Medicare information class at WCSC to provide basic information so you can make an informed decision about the options available. Our trained SHIP volunteer counselors provide this free counseling service. Call 815-622-9230 to register.

run LCCOA. Each October we elect a governing board comprised of council members who direct the operation of the council.

Once again, we have a full month of interesting programs coming up this month at the center. Be sure to look through this copy of the Golden Echo so as not to miss anything.

Space does not allow me to highlight everything, but I would like to call attention to a couple.

Last month I mentioned that we are partnering this year with the LeeOgle-Whiteside branch of the University of Illinois extension for a series of monthly programs. The first one actually is Friday, Jan. 31, and is very timely.

Entitled “Chase Away the Blues with Hearty Soups,”

the program will teach you how to add flavor to your soups and will use demonstrations to show different preparation methods and more. Then, on Feb. 20, will be a program called “Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?” You know, sometimes the transfer of assets can be a challenge for some families. This program will show you some tips to make sure that the right people inherit your assets and helps show you how to make those decisions. And watch this publication, our website and Facebook pages and more to find out about more great programs they have in store for us later this year.

In the meantime, stay warm!

Geoff

DOUG CONTINUED ON 9

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 on 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.

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Golden Echo

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Benefits Access services available The Illinois Department on Aging has the Benefits Access Program that will provide a license plate discount for one vehicle per household and the Ride Free program for seniors and disabled people.

The Ride Free program provides free rides for seniors and disabled people that travel on “fixed route� public transportation systems in areas such as Rockford and Chicago.

Whiteside and Lee counties do not have fixed route transportation.

Please contact transportation services in your area for more information on their services.

The application is only available online through IDOA’s website http:// www.cbrx.il.gov/.

There is an income limit to be eligible to file for the application, and proof of your income for 2013 may be required even if you do not file income taxes.

People eligible for the

program will be able to file every 2 years to receive the program benefits.

People filing for the benefits online on their own may need a scanner to attach their income or other information to the application.

The application will not be approved if information is required and it is not attached to the application. The application may take time to process if information is required to be attached to the application.

People filing for the Benefits Access Program can also check the application status online to see if it is approved.

People are available to help assist anyone eligible to file online or check the status of an application at Whiteside County Senior Center 815-626-7707 or toll free 888-622-9230, and Lee County Council on Aging 815-288-9236 or 855-407-9236.

ITAC PROGRAMS

ITAC events like last year’s are very successful. We are planning more events this year. Join us at 10:30 a.m. at Rock River Center in Oregon for their Triple Play Tuesday on Feb. 25 for a program on ITAC, then enjoy a lunch provided by ITAC and stay for Bingo sponsored by Rock River Center.

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Funeral and Burial Prearrangement and Prefinancing Available

DIXON

Just enjoy your own privacy.

Call me for more information.

AMBOY

204 S. Ottowa Ave 288-2241

www.thejonesfh.com

Lee County Council on Aging Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday

303 E. Main St. 857-2611

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Whiteside County Senior Center Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday

General information\outreach Lee-Ogle County Transportation System Post House Ballroom

815-288-9236 or 855-407-9236 815-288-2117 or 888-239-9228 815-288-0892

General information Transportation Outreach

email: lccoa@comcast.net

www.posthouseballroom.com

email: whitesideseniors@comcast.net

www.lccoa.com

Anne Barlow Evelyn Eisenberg Laurie Krager Helen Kay Miller Donna Newman

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Doug Farster, Vice Chair Lisa Kennay, Secretary Diane Blaine Cindy Gabany Roberta Lemoine Jo Anne Mills Carol Rick

www.whitesidecsc.org

WCSC Board Members and Officers

LCCOA Board Executive Committee and Officers Dr. Thomas Lawless, Chair Joe Rudolphi, Treasurer

815-622-9230 or 888-622-9230 815-625-7433 or 855-625-7433 815-626-7707

Sheila Martinez, President Wilbur Mennecke, Treasurer

Mary Lou Burkardt Amy Gillespie Isaac Mercer Fred Nesbit

Janice Bell John Espinoza Michelle Miller

Robbin Blackert, Vice President Cynthia Weisel, Secretary Myra Chattic Jim Lopez Kay Wallin

Bob Czuprynski Janet Mennecke Kelly Wilhelmi

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Golden Echo

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LCCOA welcomes members We would like to thank the people who recently paid their Lee County Council on Aging membership dues: Ace Hardware & Tim Deem Mary L. Hackbarth Patricia Long Outdoor Center Mary M. Delhotal Judith Hambley LaVina Marschang Doris Adams Margaret Dempsey Robert Hambley Virginia Martin Arthur Albee Shirley Devine Theodore Hambley Colette Massoni Eileen Albee Teresa Didier Jim Harker John McClintock Richard Appelquist George Disch Carol Hart Joyce McClintock Margaret Apple Marilyn Disch Stanley Hart Helen L. McCormick John W. Atkinson Jacqueline Dixon Leona C. Hayenga Carol Anne McCrystal Norma Atkinson William Dixon Dean Heckman Julie McGrail Barry R. Bacon Dixon Healthcare & Doris Heckman Richard McGrail Pamela J. Bacon Rehab. Center Robert Hill Jean McGrain Price Barnes Linda Djupstrom Sybil Hill Leo McGrain Beverly Bartmess Gene Donoho Darlene Hinkle Aleta McMillin John Bartmess Rosie Donoho Mildred Hodapp Beverly McMillion Barbara Baylor Beverley J. Duryea Doug Hoyle Dean McMillion Jack Baylor Leo G. Duryea Marvin Hubbell Faye Merriman Joyce Beaird Charles Dyche Elaine Jacox Frank L. Meyer Wayne Beaird Nancy Dyche Martha Johannsen Lyn Miliano Twila Beard Erika Edson Carolyn Johns Doris Miller Sam Berard Ehrmann Gehlbach Ida Johnson Sylvia Montavon Sherrill Berard Badger Lee & Considine, Myrl Johnson Charlene H. Moore Marilyn Bodmer LLC Nate Johnson Donald Moore Ruby D. Bondi Evelyn Eisenberg Peggy Johnson Harriet Moore Phillip Bondi Deb Etheridge Sandra Johnson Joan Moore Colleen K. Bonnell Todd Etheridge Sandra Jones William Moore Raymond E. Bonnell Mary Fassler Fern Josephsen Carol Morey Donald Book Walter Fassler Mary L. Joyce Rodney Morey Ruth Book George Feczko Bernard E. Keen Aaron Mossholder Duane Bothe Mary Lou Feczko Joan D. Keen Anne Mossholder Helen Bothe JoAnne Finn Dorothy Kessel Frank E. Muhleback Charlotte Brainerd Francis Fogle Joan B. Kessel Edward Murphy Rhonda J. Brechon Jean Fogle W.C. Kessel Dorothy Newcomer Karen Breunig Patricia Forgue Gerald Kime Mildred H. O’Rorke Joseph G. Burge Lois Fox Toni Kime Garry Ortgiesen Jim Burke Robert C. Fox Dolly Kinn Katie Ortgiesen Charlotte Burrs Louise Frailey Leon Kinn Laura Palmer Adelaide “Babe” Butler Ida Franklin Anker G. Klausen Duane Paulsen Ruth Chamberlain Joe Franklin Verna E. Knigge Dianne Pauser Marilyn Cibu Jane Freres Gary Koser Donald Pauser City of Dixon Patty Frey Linda Koser Fred Petitti Edward Clayton Barbara Friel Lela Kraber Beverly Pickering Nancy Cleary Tom Friel Matt Kracht Ruth Pitts Mary Jane Clinker Lois Funk Dennis Krager Jeanne Plumb Dean Considine Carl Gann Laurie Krager Beverly Power Sandra Considine Wilhelm Gassner Mary Ann Kreps Ann Prindaville Joseph “Chico” Contreras Ann Gerdes Lois Krieger Larry Prindaville Ruth Contreras Ruth M. Gerdes KSB Hospital Jeanette A. Prins Georgia Cover Joyce U. Gibson Anne Lahey Ruth Pullen Julia Cover Esther Gipson Joyce Lee Dorothy Pyse John Cramer Helen Glessner Gene Lemme Eileen Ramsdell Ruth E. Cramer Glenda Gray Joan Lemme Irene Ramsdell Pete Cruse Harold Gray Roberta Lemoine Al Reece Shirley Cruse M. Arlene Grobe Tom Lemoine Lester Reglin Olive M. Culver Annie Grove Lorraine LeRette M. Catherine Reglin Juanita Day Marjorie Guenzler Shirley Lewallen Ronald Reglin

Ramona Reglin Janet Reiley Ruth Reinhold S. Rogene Reuter Warren Reuter Linda Reynolds Carol Rick Ronald Rick Ron Ridenhour Deleven Rinehart Harold Risdon LeVaun Risdon James Rodriguez Waynette Rodriguez Thelma M. Ruddy Joe Rudolphi Teresa Rudolphi Charlene Ruppert Gordon Rutt Irene Rutt Wendy Ryerson Loretta J. Samuel Richard Sarver Don Schamberger Sandy Schamberger Vivian Schings Ida Schmidt Robert Schmidt Luise Schmidt Diane Schoaf John Schoaf Ida Mae Schuler August Schulte Marilyn Schulte Frances Schulte Barb Schwamberger George Schwamberger Dolores Scott Jacob Scott Carl Scroggins Mary K. Sharp Helen L. Sheridan Robert Sheridan Theresa Sheridan William Sheridan Ila Mae Sieberns Kenneth Sieberns Donald Simpson Sinnissippi Centers Inc. Shirley Sivits William Sivits Eileen L. Skibinskie R. Maxine Sloter Marilyn Smallwood Carl Smith

Louise Smith Wendell T. Snell Neoma Sorensen Judith E. Spangler Jennell Spoor George St. James Kevin Stach Sue Stach Winnie Stahr Geraldine Stevens Robert Stevens Chuck Stoddard Mary Stouffer Paul D. Stouffer Betty Stumpenhorst Alice Swinton Maurice Swinton Patricia Sword Tim Taylor Merrilee Theisinger Roger Theisinger Carol Thompson Rita Thompson Sharon U. Thompson Eleanor Thrasher Robert Thrasher William Thrasher Wanita M. Trader Sharon Tribley Alda Turner Charles Turner Melinda Ucci James Vaile Mary Vaile Geoff Vanderlin Roberta Vanderlin John Varga Nancy Varga Delores Volk Joyce Warrenfeltz Beverly Weber Stanley Weber Kurt Weippert Marlene Weippert Willett, Hofman & Assoc. Inc. Mary Williams Sylvia Williams Laurin Williamson Ruth Williamson Doris Wohrley H. Joseph Wolf Theresa Wolf Herbert Youngren

WCSC welcomes members We would like to thank the people who recently paid their Whiteside County Senior Center membership dues Bob and Alice Dietz Don and Sharon Egan

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Gary and Carol Garland John and Beverly Reed

Linda Roots Cindy Schueler

Golden Echo

Maria Spangler

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Aging and disabled resource, ITAC centers L

ee County Council on Aging, Robert Fulton Community Center and Transit Facility, and Whiteside County Senior Center are selection centers for the free amplified telephone program sponsored by the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation. You need to be certified as hard of hearing, be an Illinois resident, and have a landline telephone to qualify for this program. Please bring your phone bill with all the pages, proof of address (driver’s license, state ID, or a bill with your name and address on it) and we will help you with this program.

LCCOA, RFCC and WCSC

have outreach caseworkers who provide Options counseling, Medicare counseling, information and assistance to anyone who is 60 or older and persons with disabilities.

The caseworkers are Certified Information and Referral Specialists for Aging (CIRS-A) and Senior Health Insurance Program volunteer counselors. They receive training on a variety of programs and network with several agencies in order to be informed of the options available to their clients. WCSC also offers a monthly Medicare Information class.

In order for our caseworkers to best assess your needs, ask what to bring when making your

appointment or bring all of the following information: proof of all income for this year (Social Security benefits, pensions, interest, wages, any other income), Medicare card, Medicare Part D card, Medicaid card, value of all assets (bank accounts, CDs, any investments, investment property, business assets, cash value of life insurance, car, house, prepaid burial, burial plots, etc.), proof of income for 2012 (even if you do not file income taxes, we will need tax documents for Social Security benefits (SSA1099), pension (1099-R), interest (1099-INT), dividends (1099-DIV), and wages (W-2, etc.), Social

Clicks from the CRC

Notes from the kitchen

As many of you have discovered, the WCSC Computer Resource Center has been in a period of transition with limited services available. The CRC is now ready to serve you with eight Windows 7 public computers all on high speed internet access. You are welcome to bring your personal laptops in as well as an area has been set aside for that purpose.

We intend to resume basic computing classes in March with tentative plans for an introductory Windows 8 class.

Class sizes will be held at six people to enable improved individual assistance. Please watch the next Echo for dates.

A local computer business is offering additional classes which build upon our classes. Ask Terry in the CRC for additional information.

Well February is here.

Where did January go?

Come join us for our Valentine’s lunch on the 14th. We will be serving meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable, and a Valentine’s dessert. We will also vote for a King and Queen.

We continue to work

Thank you to the wonderful volunteers in the kitchen, I could not do the job without them.

Our meals are $5, and you don’t have to be a certain age to come and join us. If you are hungry come on in.

This is the month for love, so give someone a

hug and don’t be afraid to say “I Love You.� You can never be loved or love enough. So here’s to love, I love you all and am blessed that you share your lives with us.

Happy Valentine’s Day. May you always know you are loved.

Jackie, the cook

Caring For Loved Ones Like Family

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day – 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth Monday through FriSt., Sterling. For an day – 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Lee appointment, call 815County Council on Aging, 626-7707, or toll-free at 100 W. Second St., Dixon. 888-622-9230.

For an appointment, call Feb. 10 – 10:15-11:15 815-288-9236, or toll-free a.m., Odell Public Library, at 855-407-9236.

Morrison Feb. 6 – 10-11 a.m., Paw Feb. 11 – 9:30-10:30 Paw Community Building a.m., Prophet Manor, Feb. 10 – 1-2 p.m., AshProphetstown ton Library; 2:30-3:30 p.m., Feb. 17 – Site closed for Franklin Grove Library Presidents’ Day Feb. 19 – 10-11 a.m., Amboy Community Center Feb. 19 – 9-10 a.m., Erie Public Library Feb. 24 – 10-11 a.m., Feb. 20 – 10:15-11:15 Countryside Manor, Dixon a.m., Robert Fulton Community Center, Fulton Whiteside County Feb. 21 – 1:30 p.m., Senior Center Medicare information Monday through Friclass at WCSC

hard in the kitchen to make the best meals we can. Thanks to Sauk Valley Food Bank, Salvation Army, Kroger and County Market for making our meals that much better for our lunch crowd.

Without them our meals would be very limited. So God Bless.

Ad

New computers are not necessarily user friendly as the manufacturers load them with “added value� features that all want to run when you turn on the computer. These drastically slow a computer. We continue to offer a set-up service by appointment only for newer computers in which we will create the recovery disks, install needed programs and streamline your computer.

You get all this and more for just a small donation to the senior center.

We no longer accept computers that need internal work or that need heavy duty virus removal and ask that you utilize local businesses which do offer that service.

I hope that all of you take advantage of the delicious lunch meals, exciting trips offered or of the many fun activities here at the center.

Terry

Lee County #OUNCIL ON !GING

Security cards, and a list of current medications (including 30-day quantity and dosage).

You should call ahead for an appointment.

Home visits can be provided to clients who are homebound. Caseworkers also travel to several locations each month in both Lee and Whiteside counties (see below).

Some assistance programs may be seasonal, may have deadlines, time frames, or may require renewal.

This month’s reminder: File for the Benefits Access Program to get a $75 license plate discount. You must be 65 or disabled to file. Don’t hesitate to call with questions.

Value to

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612 W. St. Mary’s Rd. Sterling, IL 61081 r XXX DPWFOUSZMJWJOHDFOUFS DPN

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Nominations sought for 2014 Spring Prom 2014 LCCOA Spring Prom Nomination Form L

ee County Council on Aging’s annual Spring Prom will be Saturday, April 5, in the Post House Ballroom.

We are looking for nominations for the Royal Court. One woman will be named queen and one man will be named king.

This special event is a fundraiser for LCCOA. Nominated persons will be featured in upcoming Golden Echoes, and will have monetary voting boxes at the center.

If you or someone you know would be a great candidate for Spring Prom Queen/King, fill out the nomination form and return it to the senior center by March 5.

If you have any ques2013 Spring Prom King tions regarding this event, contact Jennifer Bill Yarbrough and Queen at 815-288-9236.

Helen Koser.

Name of nominee: Phone:

Please describe why she/he should be Prom Queen/King:

What 3 words would you use to describe the nominated person?

Name of person completing nomination form: Best way to contact you (phone, email, etc.): Nominations are accepted until noon on Wednesday, March 5. The nominated court will be notified at 2 p.m. Friday, March 7. Upon acceptance of nomination the person will then be asked to come to the Senior Center and be photographed for the Golden Echo and other advertising purposes. Forms may be dropped off at the senior center or mailed to Lee County Council on Aging, Attention: Prom Committee, 100 W. Second St., Dixon IL 61021 The 2014 Spring Prom royal court will consist of four women and four men. One woman will be voted as Queen and one man as King.

In the event more than four people are nominated for either position, it will be decided by number of nominations per person. If there is a tie a random draw will occur.

Each nominated Queen/King candidate will have a voting box at the senior center. Anyone may come in and make a monetary vote.

The votes will be counted by the Prom Committee. The person with the most votes wins. All money received will help with programs at Lee County Council on Aging.

Nominated court will attend the Spring Prom on Saturday, April 5, free of charge. They also will be invited to ride on the LCCOA float for the Petunia Festival Parade and will be invited back in 2015 to crown the Spring Prom 2015 King/Queen.

Stop and shop The Emporium Hooray! We finally have a finished sidewalk and two steps! Thanks to the powers that be that got the job done. Many thanks to you who continued to drop off donations or shop with us during construction.

We hope you are safe and warm during this cold weather. To help pass the time of being at home, consider taking up a hobby.

The Emporium offers books – paperbacks, hardbacks, fiction, nonfiction, romance, mystery, history, religious and many more titles, including children’s.

For the seamstress, we are supplied with yarn, fabric, patterns, notions and much more. Now is the time to start that winter project.

Stop and see.

Some of you enjoy doing

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puzzles. We can help you with that, from 100 pieces to a 1,000-piece puzzles.

The volunteers will be glad to show our selections.

Maybe you do not realize all the items we carry at The Emporium. When you think of ladies’ accessories, we have a big assortment.

Not only do we have shoes and purses, we have hats, belts, scarves, jewelry, some new and some vintage.

Need earrings? We have both pierced and clip-on.

At this start of a new year, maybe your home office could use some new wares.

Check out our shelf of office goods. Need some picture frames for those Christmas pictures? Come in and see our selection. If you are getting your first apartment, we have all the things

needed for your kitchen and probably some other parts of your home.

Spring is just around the corner, which makes us think of the next three holidays – Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter.

We have decorations for each one, something usual or unusual. You never know what you will find at The Emporium. We make your dollar stretch further and in turn you help support the Whiteside County Senior Center Stop and shop at The Emporium Thrift Center, 115 W. Third St. in Sterling.

The shop is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and closed Wednesday.

Janice Bell and Maxine Stern

OUR THERAPY IS MILES AHEAD, NOT MILES AWAY (815) 379-2131 WALNUT

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE THE FIRST TIME:

Golden Echo

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AARP tax aides to prepare returns for free In Sterling and Dixon, Tax-Aide volunteers will be providing free income tax return preparation services at these sites and days: Mondays, Feb. 3, through April 14; and Saturdays, Feb. 22 and March 22 – Whiteside County Senior Center, by appointment only, call 815-622-9230 Thursdays, Feb. 6 through April 10 – YWCA in Sterling, by appointment only, call 815-6250333 Mondays and Thursdays , Jan. 30 through April 10 – Lee County Council on Aging/Dixon Senior Center, schedule an appointment by stopping in at 100 W. Second St. in Dixon, and picking up an information packet.

The receptionist then will schedule your appointment. No appointments will be taken over the phone until you have picked up your information packet. Appointments will be scheduled at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

Taxpayer information and responsibilities These sites are staffed with AARP Tax- Aide volunteers who have been trained and are certified by the IRS to

prepare a range of individual income tax returns.

Please take a few minutes to read the following information which will ensure a smooth process for both you and the volunteers at these sites: 1. You are responsible for the accuracy of your return.

Our volunteers do not provide legal or financial advice. Our job is to assist you to complete and file your federal and state tax returns. We are not permitted to provide advice, such as how you can reduce your tax responsibility or handle other financial responsibilities. You may need to consult with a paid tax professional or financial adviser if you have questions that we cannot answer.

2. There are some types of returns that we cannot assist you with. Some taxpayers have situations that require a tax form that is outside the scope of our program, our training and the IRS certification. Please review the poster at our sites for a list of circumstances which are deemed “out of scope� for this program. Additionally, even if the return does fit within the allowable scope of our assistance, a volunteer may need to decline to assist you if your return is beyond the comfort level of their experience. If you have any

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5. If you have a joint return, it will require the signature of both spouses.

If your spouse is not present at the site, then you will have to obtain your spouse’s signature and return the forms to the site before the return can be e-filed.

6. Once your return is prepared it will be given a quality review by a second trained and certified volunteer in order to ensure that it is thorough and accurate.

Although this may require you to have an additional wait, this quality review service is done for your benefit to ensure that you receive the best service that we can provide.

7. You can expect our volunteers to treat you in a courteous and professional manner. In return, our volunteers expect you to treat them with courtesy as well. Anyone who becomes disruptive will be asked to leave without having his or her return prepared.

8. Feel free to let us know if you have comments, questions or concerns about your return or your experience at this site. If you need to contact us after this site has closed at the end of the tax season, you should contact AARP at:

Sterling Pavilion, Ltd.

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

1-888-687-2277 or 1-800424-2277 (toll-free) or send an email to: Taxaide@ aarp.org. Please do not try to contact any volunteer counselors at their home or outside of this site.

In order to assist the volunteer in accurately and completely preparing your return, please be sure you have the following required documents with you: Some identification that contains your picture. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will provide a photo ID free of charge for those 65 and older.

Social Security cards or comparable documentation for you, your spouse (if applicable) and all dependents.

Income related documents: Forms W2, unemployment compensation statements, SSA 1099, 1099R, and other 1099 forms showing home mortgage interest or other income.

Expense related docu-

ments: Checks and forms showing federal and state taxes paid, 1098 forms, documentation of medical, dental, charity, or business expenses, any vehicle and property taxes, and mortgage interest paid. Receipts for expenses need to be in reasonable order and legible.

Brokerage statements or other documentation showing the cost basis (purchase price) and date purchased for all securities or property sold or transferred during the tax year.

A check with your name printed on it for direct deposit/debit of any refund/balance due. A check in your checkbook is acceptable. A canceled check is not required.

Please bring a copy of your last year’s tax return.

If you receive a pension or annuity from a former employer, please bring the date that you began to receive payments. (In some cases, this is required.)

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of those situations, then our sites will not be able to prepare your tax return, even if this site has done so in the past. If you have a question about whether your return is out of scope, ask a volunteer so that you do not have an unnecessary wait. Please do not ask that a volunteer make an exception in your case.

3. The Client Intake form must be fully and accurately completed before your return can be started.

Please let us know if you have questions or need assistance completing the form. If you do not have required documentation for an exemption, deduction or tax credit, then you will need to return when you have it available for the volunteer to review.

All relevant tax records are required to prepare an accurate tax return.

4. Taxpayers will be called for assistance by appointment and in the order listed on the sign-in sheet.

Exceptions will be made if the circumstances of the return provide that a specific volunteer is more appropriate to prepare the return accurately or expeditiously. AARP members are not given preference over non-members.

105 E. 23rd St., Sterling 626-4264

Golden Echo

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Burkardt’s LP Gas ,OCATED ON 2T MILES SOUTH OF 0OLO

"USINESS s (OME &EBRUARY s 0AGE

Swap or sell items at the Accessories Exchange

BY CATHY REGLIN Lee County Council on Aging

5PCOMING EVENTS

H

appy February everyone – each day is longer than the one before!

This month the Ballroom will be busy with several things. Our Business After Business is on Feb. 13. The co-sponsors are Walmart, United Way of Lee County, Lee County Council on Aging, Dixon Main Street, and the Post House Ballroom.

We’ll have some beer, wine, soft drinks and punch, as well as food from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dixon Chamber members and their guests are invited.

Then, Saturday the 15th, Dixon Main Street is celebrating its volunteers with its gala. It sounds like the décor will be like nothing the Ballroom has seen before!

Sunday, Feb. 16, is our Accessories Exchange from 1 to 3 p.m. Barter, sell, or give away bridal or party decorative items such as dresses, shoes, jewelry, vases, pew bows, card boxes, candles, votive holders, cake toppers, swags, lights – you get the idea. Call to

reserve a table for $5. It is open to the public, and there is no entrance fee.

Also, AARP representatives will be preparing taxes in the Ballroom – find the article elsewhere in this Echo.

If you need a beautiful place to have a get-together, look us up on Face-

book, at www.posthouseballroom.com, which has information about the building and prices, and www.posthouseballroom. shutterfly.com, for pictures of events held here, then email me at posthouseballroom@gmail.com, or call me at 815-288-0892, and we’ll talk.

Feb. 3 – Taxes Feb. 4 – Line dancing; The Stage Door Feb. 6 – Taxes; The Stage Door Feb. 10 – Taxes Feb. 11 – Line dancing; The Stage Door Feb. 13 – Taxes; Business After Business Feb. 15 – Dixon Main Street’s Annual Gala Feb. 16 – Accessories Exchange Feb. 17 – Site closed

for Presidents’ Day Feb. 18 – Line dancing; The Stage Door Feb. 20 – Taxes; The Stage Door Feb. 22 – Cara and Eric Symons wedding reception Feb. 24 – Taxes; Lee County Council on Aging Board meetings Feb. 25 – Line dancing; The Stage Door Feb. 27 – Taxes; The Stage Door

File taxes online for free at WCSC File your taxes online for free at the Whiteside County Senior Center Computer Lab. You will need: Basic computer skills Email address Picture ID, Social

security cards for you tions from 9 a.m. to noon and all dependents, W-2, on Tuesday or from 1 to 4 1099 and prior year taxes p.m. Wednesday and Fri(adjusted gross income), bank account and routing information. Your AGI must be below $58,000.

AARP Tax Aides will be available to answer ques-

Your Life.

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Proud to serve the entire Rock River Valley area with dedicated and caring local staff.

Call toll-free (888) 741-8985

to be connected with the team in your area!

PassagesHospice.com

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day at the senior center.

To make an appointment, call 815-622-9230.

Good News Sauk Valley Media would like to offer you a

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Your Locally-owned Trust Department.

The First National Bank in Amboy 4 Convenient Locations in Amboy & Dixon 800-216-0008 www.fnbamboy.com

Golden Echo

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CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

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815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222 Special offer good for seniors age 65 and older, proof of age required. Must be pre-paid.

Following restrictions apply: No Rummage Sales, Real Estate, Rental Ads or Business Ads. Items must be owned by senior citizen placing ad.

3AUK 6ALLEY -EDIA

Great things happen at LCCOA

L

ooking for something fun to do?

Stop in at the Lee County Council on Aging on Monday through Friday, and join us for a day and see all the great happenings at the center.

Join us at 10:30 a.m.

Monday and Thursday for a 30-minute Zumba class, or learn new line dances at 10 a.m. Tuesday with the Sassy Senior Steppers. The group even has visited Dixon Health-

care and The Meadows in Franklin Grove, showing off their dancing moves and getting the crowd involved, too.

If you’re a card player, we have games here at the center 4 days a week.

Bridge is played at 12:30 p.m. Monday and Friday.

Do you like to play pinochle? A group plays double deck pinochle at 1 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday.

If you like to craft, then

come down at 1 p.m.

Thursday and the ladies will teach you to knit or crochet.

Maybe you have a craft you would like to share?

Bring it to the center, we would love to see it.

Our ever-so-popular bingo is played once a week.

Make sure you look at the activities page to check the dates and times we are playing.

Also, don’t forget to

look at our upcoming special events page.

We have a year filled with great programs from the University of Illinois Extension, Home Bound Healthcare, Dixon Healthcare and more.

If you’re on Facebook, make sure to like Lee County Council on Aging and keep up to date with all the great happenings here at your senior center.

HAT DAY WINNERS

Wednesday, Jan. 15, was National Hat Day at Whiteside County Senior Center. The winners were Francis VenHuizen (left) for the ugliest hat, and Pat Estes for the prettiest hat. Thanks for participating!

I would recommend Gaffey to anyone...

CHILI AND SOUP SUPPER

The nursing staff was great and really helped us through a difficult time when they cared for my husband Gene.

The nurses talked and comforted Gene.

They wanted our feedback and acted on the suggestions we gave them.

They were aweome!

Patrons enjoy last year’s Chili and Soup Supper in the Post House Ballroom. This important (and fun!) fundraiser will be on Wednesday, March 12. Mark your calendar now.

DOUG

CONTINUED FROM 2

Come join us at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, for free popcorn and a movie, “Finding Faith,� starring Erik Estrada, Jamie Watson and Tim Goodman. The movie is based on actual events about a young girl who falls victim to a skillful online predator. The movie is sponsored by Whiteside County Center HomeCare. Come early

3AUK 6ALLEY -EDIA

and join us for lunch, as we will be having Cook’s Choice; so call on Thursday to check the menu.

Lunch is $5.

Check the special events calendar for more details on these events and for a list of other events available in February.

Don’t like driving on snow and ice? Let us do the driving! Contact us about scheduling a ride on the Whiteside County Public Transportation buses.

Rides are free for those over 60, only $2 for those

ages 6 to 59, and 50 cents for children under 5, to any destination in Whiteside County! We provide bus service from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. I hope you will take advantage of this great service offered to all residents of Whiteside County.

Contact our transportation coordinators at 815-6257433 or 855-625-7433 toll free, to obtain more details about the transportation system!

Until next month, Doug

-Cindy Hartman

“WhereBetterToBeThanAtHome?�

Golden Echo

3408 E. 23rd St., Sterling ˆ Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM www.gaffeyhomenursingandhospice.com

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Thank you 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.

,EE #OUNTY #OUNCIL ON !GING Neoma Sorensen Ronald and Carol Rick Joe and Ida Franklin George R. St. James John and Beverly Bartmess Dorothy Newcomer Aleta McMillin Jim Harker R. Maxine Sloter Charlene Ruppert Jeanette A. Prins Mildred Hodapp M. Arlene Grobe

Ruth M. Gerdes Adelmide Butler Doris M. Wohrley Herbert Youngren Joseph G. Burge Gene and Joan Lemme Louise Frailey Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger Lee & Considine, LLC Luise Schmidt Charles and Alda Turner Charles and Nancy Dyche Dean and Beverly McMillion

Richard Appelquist Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center Matt Kraciat KSB Hospital Beverly Power Marvin E. Hubbell Leo and Jean McGrain Duane Paulsen Wanita Trader Sinnissippi Foundation Roger and Merrilee Theisinger Maureen Oester Henry and Wanda Meusel

Dennis Ayres Elaine Lyons James Ligtenberg Maureen and Mykola Pawchuk Whatever It Takes Repair Inc. Mark and Kristi Reiss Barbara Coglianese Allan Christison Maria Marrufo Rich Guise Dan Zackary Carol Thompson Dan Lee, Anchor Road Storage

7HITESIDE #OUNTY 3ENIOR #ENTER Shirley Anderson Jacob Dean Fonda Zinke Mike and Susie Cole

Pete Olalde Ranae Smith Candy Bouquet Brian and Chris Babel

Delores Nelson Duwayne Doane Megan Grennan Margaret Ebersohl

Joe Fornero Rosemary Hindley

! SPECIAL THANK YOU A special thank you to all that worked Santa’s Workshop on Dec. 14, 2013, from the elves shopping with the kids, to the elves that wrapped all the gifts, the elves that painted faces, the person who made balloon animals, and the people that worked in the kitchen and dining room for the breakfast. If we have missed anyone, we are sorry. We appreciate all your work, and hope to see you again next year.

Rhyanna Hadden Jordyn Martin Abby Noble Julie Dodd Jameyrae Valdivia Jessica Stickel Nicole Arduini Kaitlin Brown Kobe Conklin Maurelle Behrens Ashley Meenen Hana Ville Kelsey Simpson Teagan McKenna Iaryn McKenna

&EBRUARY s 0AGE

Kristina Kent Anna Jenkins Thomas Jenkins Cynthia Stringer Maggie Bailey Karsyn Bailey Sherry Cushing Megan Vandersee Madison Vandersee JoEllen Vandersee Celeste Serafin Edith Canales Helen Doane Dewayne Doane Dolores Nelson

Dee Robinson Mary Nashuchacz John Hoffman Juanita Craig Emma Howard Doug Vandersee Lindsay Anderson Tori McDaniel Karen O’Malley Betty Meenen Kenny Roeder Aletha Roeder Tina Shoffner Thom Gallardo Keith Potter

Golden Echo

Shirley Schwarz Pat Estes Jackie Virnich Jane Huddleston Sue Renner Loren McCormick Dorothy Forbes Dorothy Szewczyk Phil Szewczyk Rita Clifton Wendy Eckel Stella Sagal Janet Mennecke Phyllis Lutyens

3AUK 6ALLEY -EDIA

Weekly Activities and Meetings Lee County Council on Aging Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, and open Wii games 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Computer lab 10:30 a.m. – Zumba class 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape lunch (reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 12:30 p.m. – Duplicate bridge

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, and open Wii games 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Computer lab 9 a.m. – Golden Kiwanis 10-11 a.m. – Line dancing 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape lunch (reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1 p.m. – Pinochle

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, and open Wii games 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape lunch (reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1 p.m. – Pinochle

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, and open Wii games 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Computer lab 10:30 a.m. – Zumba class 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape lunch (reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1 p.m. – Crocheting and crafting 5:30 p.m. – Overeaters Anonymous

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, and open Wii games 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape lunch (reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 12:30 p.m. – Duplicate bridge 1 p.m. – Pinochle

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

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, Wii machine, socializing, and 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 1:30 p.m. – Wii/Yoga and Zumba

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, Wii machine, socializing, and computer lab 10 a.m. – Farkle 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle in the Big Room 12:30 p.m. – Bridge

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, Wii machine, socializing, and computer lab 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – “Hand and Foot” card game, similar to Canasta, but a lot shorter, $2

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, Wii machine, socializing, and computer lab 11 a.m. – 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 in the Big Room

Monthly Activities and Meetings Lee County Council on Aging Feb. 4 10 a.m. – Line dancing class 1 p.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Polo Rehabilitation and Healthcare 2:30 p.m. – Stroke Awareness presentation, sponsored by CVP Home Health Care

Noon – “How to Deal with Grief” with Unity Hospice of Northern Illinois

Feb. 5 10 a.m. – Blood pressure checks, sponsored by Lee County Health Department

Feb. 13 8:30 a.m. – Free breakfast at LCCOA 10-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure checks, sponsored by Oregon Living & Rehabilitation

Feb. 11 10 a.m. – Line dancing class

Feb. 12 10 a.m. – Laughter Yoga, sponsored by Home Bound Healthcare

Feb. 14 9:30 a.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Green Acres Healthcare & Rehabilitation Feb. 17 Site closed for Presidents’ Day Feb. 18 10-11 a.m. – Blood pressure checks by Polo Rehabilitation & Healthcare 10 a.m. – Line dancing class 12:30 p.m. – Scarf making with Bobbie Jo

Feb. 19 9:30-11:30 a.m. – Rules of the Road class 12:30 p.m. – Living Life to the Fullest program presented by Unity Hospice Feb. 20 1 p.m. – “Who gets Grandmas Pie Plate” presented by University of Illinois Extension Feb. 23 12:30 p.m. – Euchre Tournament

Feb. 25 10 a.m. – Line dancing class 2 p.m. – Basic computer class Feb. 26 2 p.m. – Basic computer class Feb. 28 9:30 a.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Lee County Council on Aging

Whiteside County Senior Center Feb. 5 11:25 a.m. – Celebrating February Birthdays 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure check, sponsored by Mercy Nursing 12:30 p.m. – Bingo, prizes and snacks, sponsored by WCSC

Feb. 10 10-11 a.m. – Outreach caseworker at Odell Public Library, Morrison

Feb. 8 1 p.m. – Sauk Computer User Group will meet with a question and answer time.

At 2:15 p.m., there will be a presentation about the services and programs we offer.

Feb. 12 11 a.m.-noon – Blood pressure check, sponsored by Gaffey Home Nursing 12:30 p.m. – Bingo, prizes, sponsored

by Good Neighbor Care, Sterling, snacks

by WCSC

Feb. 11 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Outreach caseworker at Prophet Manor, Prophetstown

Feb. 13 5 p.m. – Alzheimer’s Support Group Feb. 17 Site closed for Presidents’ Day Feb. 19 9-10 a.m. – Outreach caseworker at Erie Public Library 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure check, sponsored by Transitions Nursing & Rehab Center 12:30 p.m. – Bingo, prizes, sponsored

by Transitions Nursing, snacks by WCSC

Feb. 20 10-11 a.m. – Outreach caseworker at Robert Fulton Community Center, Fulton Feb. 21 1 p.m. – Medicare information class, call 622-9230 to register

Feb. 28 12:30 p.m. – It’s Showtime! Movie and popcorn are free. The movie will be “Finding Faith.” The movie is based on actual events about a young girl who falls victim to an online predator. The movie is sponsored by Whiteside HomeCare.

Feb. 26 10:30-11:30 a.m.– Blood pressure checks, sponsored by Sterling Pavilion 12:30 p.m. – Bingo, prizes, sponsored

by Vista Hospice with snacks by WCSC

Robert Fulton Community Center Come in anytime to play pool, cards, board games, corn bag toss. We have a large screen TV, pianos, books and puzzles to loan out, 4 sewing machines, 2 personal computers and 4 Macs available.

Feb. 3 8:30-10 a.m. – Community Coffee with Whiteside HomeCare Feb. 4 1 p.m. – Euchre

Feb. 5 12:15 p.m. – Bingo Feb. 7 11-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure checks Feb. 11 1 p.m. – Euchre 1-6 p.m. – Red Cross Blood Drive

Feb. 12 Foot Care Clinic, sponosred by Whiteside HomeCare, call 815-772-4213 for an appointment Feb 14 11-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure checks

Feb. 5 11 a.m.-noon – Blood pressure checks, sponsored by Whiteside HomeCare Visit us on our website: www.cityoffulton.us Look under the community and government heading!

Feb. 17 Site closed for Presidents’ Day

Feb. 21 11-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure checks

Feb. 18 1 p.m. – Euchre

Feb. 25 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – Red Cross Blood Drive 1 p.m. – Euchre

Feb. 20 10:15-11:15 a.m. – Outreach caseworker here, call 888-622-9230 for an appointment

Feb. 28 11-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure checks

Meals for February Serving at Lee County Council on Aging Feb. 3-7 Monday: Creamy chicken with pasta, Italian vegetables, baked apples and wheat bread. Tuesday: Cheesy beef taco with flour tortilla, lettuce and tomato, red beans and rice, Capri blend vegetables and fresh fruit. Wednesday: Beef Manhattan, green beans, wheat bread and peaches. Thursday: Baked ziti with meat sauce, steamed broccoli, soft breadstick and hot applesauce. Friday: A) Crispy fish sandwich on wheat bun, potato pancakes, Brussels sprouts and pineapple tidbits; B) Turkey sandwich and minestrone soup.

Feb. 10-14 Monday: Apple stuffed pancakes with syrup, turkey sausage, hash brown potatoes, and Mandarin oranges. Tuesday: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry vegetables, wheat roll and apricots.

Wednesday: Baked pork chop, baby red potatoes, green beans, tossed salad with dressing, wheat roll and apple crisp. Thursday: Country meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, baby carrots, wheat roll and fruit cocktail. Friday: A) Turkey chili macaroni, corn muffin, steamed cauliflower, corn and JellO with fruit; B) Tuna salad sandwich and chicken rice soup.

Feb. 17-21 Monday: Rosemary herb chicken, brown rice, carrot coins, wheat roll and fresh pear. Tuesday: Chef salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomato, egg and cheese, wheat roll, fresh orange and fruit juice.

Wednesday: Pepper steak mashed potatoes with gravy, Lima beans, wheat bread and chilled pineapple. Thursday: A) Chicken vegetable macaroni, Capri vegetables, baked peaches, wheat bread and apricots; B) Ham sandwich and vegetable soup. Friday: Barbecue riblett on wheat bun, au gratin potatoes, California blend vegetables and fruit cocktail.

Feb. 24-28 Monday: Chicken a la king, peas, biscuit, and citrus fruit cup. Tuesday: Mostaccioli with meat sauce, green beans, Scandinavian blend vegetables, garlic bread and yellow apple. Wednesday: Herb baked chicken quarter, mashed potatoes with gravy, baby carrots, tossed salad with dressing, wheat roll and pumpkin bar. Thursday: A) Pizza burger, tator tots, corn and chilled pineapple; B) Roast beef with sandwich and cream of mushroom soup. Friday: Cheese omelette, turkey sausage, hash brown potatoes, blueberry muffin and Mandarin oranges.

Serving at Whiteside County Senior Center Feb. 3-7 Monday: Barbecue chicken, potato, vegetable and dessert. Tuesday: Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Wednesday: Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad and dessert.

Thursday: Meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Friday: Cook’s choice.

Feb. 10-14 Monday: Chicken breast, potato, vegetable and dessert. Tuesday: Ham and scalloped potatoes, vegetable and dessert. Wednesday: Beef and noodles, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Goulash, vegetable and dessert. Friday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and a special Valentine’s dessert.

Feb. 17-21 Monday: Site closed for Presidents’ Day. Tuesday: Pork chop, potato, vegetable and dessert.

Wednesday: Chicken and biscuits, salad and dessert. Thursday: Tacos, refried beans, rice and dessert. Friday: Cook’s choice.

Feb. 24-28 Monday: Lasagna, garlic bread, salad and dessert. Tuesday: Chicken casserole, salad and dessert. Wednesday: Chili, corn bread and dessert.

Thursday: Baked cod, potato, vegetable and dessert. Friday: Hamburger/cheeseburger, potato, vegetable and dessert.

Serving at Golden Meals in Rock Falls Feb. 3-7 Monday: Herb baked chicken, parslied potatoes, mixed vegetables, vanilla pudding and bread. Tuesday: Polka dot macaroni and cheese, peas, spiced peaches and bread. Wednesday: Turkey tetrazzini, carrots, mixed fruit and bread. Thursday: Roast pork with gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, applesauce and roll. Friday: Bratwurst on bun, ranch potatoes, mixed vegetables and pears.

Feb. 10-14 Monday: Barbecue chicken, ranch mashed potatoes, broccoli, Mandarin oranges and bread.

Tuesday: Beef stew, cole slaw, rosy applesauce and biscuit. Wednesday: Ham loaf, sweet potatoes, peas, pineapple and bread. Thursday: Baked fish, tater tots, spinach, peaches and bread. Friday: Valentine’s Party — Easy chicken casserole, white and wild rice, mixed vegetables, mixed fruit and bread.

Feb. 17-21 Monday: Site closed for Presidents’ Day. Tuesday: Scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, pears and bread. Wednesday: Cheeseburger on bun, German potato salad, baked beans and tapioca pudding.

Thursday: Roast beef with gravy, mashed potatoes, corn, mixed fruit and bread. Friday: Chili with meat and beans, carrots, apricots and corn bread.

Feb. 24-28 Monday: Sloppy Joe on bun, parlsied potatoes, vegetable blend, peaches and bread. Tuesday: Salisbury steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, beets, mixed fruit and bread. Wednesday: Goulash, green beans, pears and bread. Thursday: Barbecue ribettes, cheesy potatoes, mixed vegetables, applesauce and bread. Friday: Tater tot casserole, peas, mixed fruit and bread.

Serving at Robert Fulton Community Center in Fulton Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m.

Feb. 5 Lunch, sponsored by VCP Home Health Care

Feb. 7 Scalloped potato with ham casserole, roll, vegetable and dessert

Feb. 19 Lunch, sponsored by Eagle Point Nursing & Rehab

Feb. 21 Meatballs, scalloped potatoes, vegetable and dessert

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Feb. 12 Lunch, sponsored by Bickford Assisted Living Feb. 26 Harbor Crest chili with crackers, rolls, and dessert

by Elsie

Golden Echo

Feb. 14 Special Valentine’s Dinner to be announced Feb. 28 Creamed turkey on biscuit, vegetable and dessert

3AUK 6ALLEY -EDIA

Transportation Lee-Ogle Transportation System

LOTS Spotlight

Fares: (within zip code) Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult)

$1 one way

People age 6 to 59 years

$2 one way

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

$1 one way

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

888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

Whiteside County Public Transportation Fares: (within county) Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult)

50 cents one way

People age 6 to 59 years

$2 one way

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

Donation suggested

Out-of-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability

25 cents per mile

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

Diamond Robinson Diamond Robinson has worked with Lee-Ogle Transportation System for 5 months.

She is a great addition to the team as she is also fluent in Spanish.

“Working for LOTS is a great opportunity and I am proud of the service we provide to the community.”

Contact WCPT or LOTS today to help you get where you need to go.

Find WCPT and LOTS on Facebook.

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

Whiteside County Public Transportation updates Adopt-A-Rider We would like to thank everyone that donated to our Adopt-A-Rider program! Your kindness and contribution will ensure our residents get to where they need to go.

Thank you to: Wal-Mart Distribution Center Mercy Nursing Services Imprintable Memories Cater Construction Whiteside County Health Department Mary Rodriguez Nell Eakle Pat Detorrice

3AUK 6ALLEY -EDIA

Concealed carry

sure will be determined by 5 a.m., the morning of, and Although Illinois recently passed the concealed carry posted on local radio and TV stations. A mid-day closure will occur, if throughout the day travel becomes act, weapons of any kind are prohibited on public hazardous, and we will also post this type of closure transportation buses and vans due to state regulaon local radio and TV stations. tions. We have posted signs with this information at the entryway of each vehicle and on the driver’s overWhere to find information head compartment. We would like to thank our riders Our Facebook page is updated regularly with transit in advance for complying with this rule. related materials. We post fun facts, exciting news, and most importantly information that will affect our ridWinter closures ers such as winter closures and holiday closures. To get WCPT no longer follows the unit 5 school districts winter closings. Due to our extended hours, our direc- WCPT news first, please find us and like us on Facebook.

Stay warm! tor must determine if the road conditions are hazardFrom all of us at WCPT ous much earlier then school district. An all-day clo-

Golden Echo

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Upcoming trips The Midtown Men at the Paramount Theatre

Niagara Falls and Toronto Trip Sunday through Saturday, June 1-7 Cost – $639 (based on double occupancy)

Friday, Feb. 14 Leave Rock Falls Community Center at 9 a.m.

Leave Dixon Walmart at 9:30 a.m.

Cost – $75 members; $80 nonmembers Grab your sweetheart, or friends you’re really fond of, and celebrate Valentine’s Day with four voices so silky smooth you can skip the Dove chocolate. The Midtown Men are the original cast of Broadways Jersey Boys. They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all-time! Now they are together again, taking their sensational sound on the road. Audiences from coast to coast are raving about this one-of-a-kind concert experience celebrating the music of the 1960s with classic songs by The Beatles, Beach Boys, Motown, The Four Seasons and more!

Cost includes transportation on a chartered bus and ticket into show.

Lunch will be on your own at Cracker Barrel prior to show.

Alaska Anyone?

Thursday through Friday, Aug. 29-Sept. 5 Cost – $2,800 per person with a $600 deposit due March 15 (based on double occupancy) Final payment is due by June 1

“The Wizard of Oz” at the Cadillac Palace in Chicago

Friday, Aug. 29 we will board the Celebrity Solstice for a 7-night cruise.

We depart from Seattle and visit Ketchican, Juneau, Skadway and Victoria, B.C. We will travel through the inside passage and visit the Twin Sawyer Glaciers. Please call 815-622-9230 and ask for Glenda.

Wednesday, May 7 Leave Rock Falls Community Center at 9 a.m.

Leave Dixon Walmart at 9:30 a.m.

Cost – $95 members; $100 nonmembers (lodge seats) $65 members; $70 nonmembers (balcony seats)

Cape Cod Trip

Developed from the ever popular MGM screenplay, “The Wizard of Oz” contains all the beloved songs from the Oscar-winning movie score, all the favorite characters and iconic moments, plus a few surprises along the way, including new songs by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog Toto, as they journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their hearts’ desires. Watch out for the Wicked Witch of the West and her winged monkeys as you rediscover the real story of Oz in this fantastic musical treat for all the family. Cost includes transportation on a chartered bus and ticket into show. Lunch will be on your own at Cracker Barrel prior to show.

Motorcoach transportation; 6 nights lodging including 4 nights in Niagara Falls; six breakfasts and four dinners; guided tours of Niagara Falls and Toronto; a Journey to The Falls on a “Hornblower Niagara Cruise”; gaming at Fallsview Casino; a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake and Queen Victoria Park; a visit to Casa Loma, Canada’s most magnificent castle, and much more. Stop in and pick up a flyer.

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Saturday through Sunday, Sept. 20-28 Cost – $808 (based on double occupancy) Motorcoach transportation; 8 nights lodging including nights in the quaint Cape Cod area; eight breakfasts and six dinners; a tour of the “Outer Cape” including Provincetown and Chatham; a visit to the JFK Museum; gaming at Turning Stone Casino; a Hyannis Harbor Cruise; an exploration of the historic seaside towns of Hyannis and Sandwich; a visit to the Heritage Museums and Gardens; Martha’s Vineyard and much more. Stop in and pick up a flyer.

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

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Upcoming special events Project Tech presentation at WCSC 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7 Nathan Fellows will be talking about Project Tech, an initiative to help those who are under utilizing technology. If you wish to know more about how to use your technology (cell phones, computers, and more) be sure to attend this brief informative meeting.

Laughter Yoga at LCCOA 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb.12 Laughter Yoga is a gentle, feel-good event for all ages and abilities. It combines unconditional laughter with yogic breathing. We begin with gentle stretching, chanting, clapping and body movement. Next comes the breathing exercise, to prepare the lungs for laughter. This is followed by a series of “laughter exercises” that include fun, playful games. These games, along with the personalities of the group, undoubtedly lead to fits of laughter that go on and on.

Lincoln’s Birthday at WCSC 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12 Come and take a short quiz about Abraham Lincoln and see how much you know. Prizes for first- and second-place winners. Have some fun!

Lee County Council on Aging serves a Free Breakfast 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 13 Breakfast is followed by LCCOA speakers.

Come see all the great happening’s at the Senior Center and learn about what we can do for you.

Reservations for breakfast are required by Feb. 10. Please call 815-288-9236 to reserve your spot.

Valentine’s Party and Bingo at WCSC Friday, Feb. 14 The week before Valentine’s Day votes will be taken for King and Queen, one vote per person, per day. A special lunch for Valentine’s Day will be served, which is meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and a special Valentine’s dessert. Then at noon on Valentine’s Day, the King and Queen will be crowned. At 12:30 p.m. Valentine Bingo will be played. Bingo is sponsored by Rock Falls Rehab, with snacks sponsored by WCSC.

Scarf Making with Bobbie Jo at LCCOA 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18 Cost – $8 per person (reservation required) Learn to create a beautiful scarf to take home. Making your own scarf is a fun and easy project. Class will be led by Bobbie Jo who will teach you to make a scarf for yourself or a loved one. Cost includes all supplies.

“Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?” at LCCOA 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 Transferring non-titled property such as mementos, jewelry, furniture and collectibles can be challenging for some families. If you really want to make sure that the right people inherit your stuff it is best to make decisions while you are still alive. This program will help you identify the best method for transferring non-titled property while keeping the peace. This program presented by Janice McCoy from the University of Illinois Extension.

Cherry Pie Day at WCSC 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 Cost – $5 Buy lunch for $5, and get a piece of homemade cherry pie for dessert. Lunch will be tacos, refried beans, rice and dessert.

Scrapbooking Class at WCSC 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 Cost – $5 for materials Beginners and advanced scrapbooking class. Bring scissors, doublesided tape or glue stick, and four to six pictures that we will use. To register, call 815-622-9230.

Medicare Information Class at WCSC 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21 Free The basic information that we provide will help our community members who are new to Medicare and those who want more information, make a more informed decision when it comes to their options with Medicare. Our Outreach Department staff are trained Senior Health Insurance Program volunteer counselors. SHIP is a free counseling service provided by the Illinois Department of Insurance. Please call, 815-622-9230 to register.

National Tortilla Chip Day at WCSC 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 24 Come and enjoy some tortilla chips with your favorite dips. But don’t eat too many or you will ruin your lunch.

Basic Computer Class at LCCOA 2-4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 25-26 Cost – $10 Learn the basics including using a mouse, keyboard, basic computer terminology and more. Sign up required, call 815-288-9236.

Tell a Fairy Tale Day at WCSC

9:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 Free This class is a refresher course to help a person prepare to take their driving test.

11-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 Write a fairy tale about the Whiteside County Senior Center, and prizes will be given to the first- and second-place winners. You may write the story ahead of time, or you may write a story at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, but you will have to be quick.

Living Life to the Fullest at LCCOA

It’s Showtime! at WCSC

Rules of the Road at LCCOA

12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 Unity Hospice presents Living Life to the Fullest. This presentation will get you thinking about everyday living and enjoying all the little things. This is a presentation not to miss.

“Organizing with Heart” presentation at WCSC 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 Denise Wassenhove, owner of Lean On Me – Organizing With Heart, will present tips on downsizing, rightsizing and organizing your home. Denise is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, the Institute For Challenging Disorganization and the National Association of Senior Move Managers.

12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28 Cost – $5 for lunch The movie and popcorn are free. The movie will be “Finding Faith,” starring Erik Estrada, Jamie Watson and Tim Goodman. This movie is based on actual events about a young girl who falls victim to a skillful online predator. The movie is.sponsored by Whiteside HomeCare.

Wellness Event at WCSC 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 28 VCP will talk about heart health since this is American Heart Month. They will be doing blood pressures, blood sugars and oxygen levels. Come and listen.

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