SVM-SS2_12282015

Holiday Closings: Lee County Council on Aging: Jan. 1 and Jan. 18. Lifescape Community Services: Jan. 1. Lee-Ogle Transportation System: Jan. 1 and Jan. 18 Whiteside County Senior Center and Whiteside Public Transportation: Jan. 1 and Jan. 18. Meals at Whiteside Senior Center: Jan. 1 and Jan. 18

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 8

• January 2016 •

Edition 3

We Wish Everyone A Happy New Year From Whiteside County Senior Center Whiteside County Public Transportation Board Members • Staff • Volunteers

Come and check out our many daily activities at WCSC: Cards: Pinochle, Euchre, Canasta, Kings on the Corner, Bridge, Hand and Foot, Beginning Euchre (call first) Games: Scrabble, Mexican Train Dominoes, Bingo Classes: Beading, Crochet/Knitting Exercises: Line Dancing, Chair Exercises, Yoga Laughter Other events: Karoke – great fun!

Plus – The Best Kept Secret in Town – A Homemade Lunch Every Day for $5.

Any Age can come from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

INSIDE Directors’ Columns ............................................. 2 Post House Ballroom........................................... 3 Thank Yous.................................................. 6, 7, 8

Membership Dues Paid................................... 6, 7 Weekly, Monthly Activities .............................. 11 Upcoming Trips................................................. 12

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

levels of service to our clients. When clients come to LCCOA they are treated with respect and given an overview of what, if any, benefits may be possible for them. We help them understand and navigate the sometimes overwhelming application processes and applications. If they find it hard to see us in Dixon, we do regular outreach to Amboy, Ashton, Franklin

Grove, Paw Paw and Sublette each month. And all of this is done at no charge to the client.

To accomplish this mission we rely on a combination of State, Federal and Local grants along with donations and memberships. If you feel what we are doing is important to you, your family, or the residents of Lee County, I, once again, ask that you consider membership in LCCOA. As we wind down our annual appeal, many of you have spoken generously with memberships and additional donations but, if you haven’t yet, please consider coming forward.

On a similar topic, part of our efforts to raise money, as well as provide a fun, social environment

for all involves our periodic large events such as our annual Chili Supper (coming up in March!), Prom (April) and Luau (August).

While the small admission we charge for these events covers the basic costs, anything else we receive also helps us in our mission. We would welcome either individuals or businesses in the area who would like to sponsor any of these events. In return for covering expenses, your business would receive recognition as a strong supporter of Lee County seniors. For information, you can call me at 288-9236. Thanks.

With 2016 right around the corner, we promise you another year of old favorites and new activities to enjoy. Did

you know that we hold a Euchre tournament every month? Or that we now have a Bridge group that meets Monday nights for those who find it hard to get here during the day?

If Bridge is not your game of choice, how about joining us for Pinochle or euchre during the week?

As always, a full schedule of events can be found by reading through each month’s Golden Echo.

And, if you haven’t yet, you should “Like” our Facebook page (Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging) where you can find all the latest, including events added after the Echo.

Happy New Year everyone. Make 2016 GREAT! – Geoff

more and keep this process going until we have made the changes we want. It can be hard to make change if we don’t really want to change.

This applies to individuals and to organizations and companies. Being a “change agent” can be a trying experience but I am happy to say we have moved forward with several of our changes thanks to the people who support the WCSC.

Last year we introduced “My Senior Center” software to help us to better track the attendance and program participation to determine exactly who are we serving in Whiteside County. We implemented a MSC key tag which people use to sign-in at the SC and select the activities they are going to participate in each day.

While looking at this software I heard numerous comments about seniors not wanting to use the software or report their activities. I am happy to say the naysayers were wrong and the seniors have embraced the new system and we are obtaining data which we have never been able to calculate before as it was very tedious and time consum-

ing for the staff. Yes, a few people haven’t completely jumped on board with the changes but I am very happy to say they are a small minority. We keep working to educate them on the importance of obtaining accurate information to use to support the local, state and federal grants we receive to support the SC and the services we provide to the communities we serve.

The weather has been great so far this winter but if severe weather should hit our area during the winter, please listen to your local radio and TV stations, and other local media sources for announcement regarding the closure of the WCSC and WCPT. We will update the message on our auto-

mated answering system and our Facebook page as soon as we make the final decision. Remember, WCSC is a warming site between 8 am and 4 pm when the SC is open!

Please check the Echo for a list of daily, weekly and monthly activities and programs for January. We hope you will come out and become a member and get active in our programs! We want to say a special thank you to those who renewed your WCSC annual membership and a very special thank you to those who chose to make a Giving Tuesday donation or annual donation to support the WCSC in 2016! Have a safe and Happy New Year!

– Doug

By Geoff Vanderlin Merry, Merry, Christmas! As you read this, I hope you are recovering from a wonderful Christmas weekend and looking forward to New Year’s Day and a wonderful 2016. This time of year always brings about a time of reflecting – on what’s past and what’s yet to come. This year, let’s allow some of that reflection to think of some of our senior neighbors and friends who may be less well off. You know, I talk a lot about how LCCOA

and the Post House Community Center are here for everyone in the community, and that’s true now more than ever.

But the core of our reason for existence is to help the aged and disabled who need assistance connecting themselves with programs where they can continue to lead dignified and independent lives.

Our Outreach counsellors spend many hours each year training on new rules and regulations in order to provide the highest

From the WCSC Executive Director

By Doug Vandersee Happy New Year from the Whiteside County Senior Center Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers! 2015 has flown by so quickly we haven’t had time to catch our breath.

Thank you to everyone who took part in our programs this past year or used the WCSC for senior services, lunch, or just spent time visiting with new and old friends! We are happy that you joined us and hope you will continue your relationship with the WCSC! While we wait for 2016

to arrive it is a great time to reflect back on our goals for 2015 and determine which ones we accomplished and which ones we will need to address further in 2016.

Many times we set so many “resolutions” that we get bogged down in the planning of the changes we want to make that we don’t actually make the changes we desire.

Last year we suggested everyone try to focus on 1-2 goals and after we have achieved them we can start working on 1-2

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.

January 2016 • Page 2

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

AT THE POSTHOUSE

We can help you have a merry holiday gathering Events for January

What a unique idea to use instead of signing a guest book!

BY CATHY REGLIN Lee County Council on Aging

On January 20th, we have Dixon Main Street’s Lunch & Learn, with Fire Chief Tim Shipman presenting. This is a great way to learn what’s going on in the community and have a good meal for only $3.00. They get you in and out in an hour! I will be out of the office from January 2 through 11, 2016.

I hear my beach calling, and must go!

Then it’s full steam ahead for 2016, and I hope you all find happiness and peace in the new year. AARP is preparing taxes in the Ballroom again this year, so get your papers in order and call our Community Center to make an appointment after the first of the year.

If you need a beautiful place to have a get-together, look us up on Facebook, at www.posthouseballroom.

com, for information about the building and prices as well as our event calendar, 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. Events are booking up for 2016, so check out our calendar on the website to see what dates are available for your special celebration!

1 - Holiday - offices closed 5 - 10 a.m. Line Dancing public welcome 7 - The Stage Door Dance Classes 12 - 10 a.m. Line Dancing public welcome 14 - The Stage Door Dance Classes 15 - Tawny Eastabrooks & Shelby Miller decorate 16 - Tawny Eastabrooks & Shelby Miller Wedding Reception 17 - Tawny Eastabrooks & Shelby Miller remove decorations 18 - Holiday - offices closed 19 - 10 a.m. Line Dancing public welcome 20 - Dixon Main Street’s Lunch & Learn 21 - The Stage Door Dance Classes 25 - LCCOA Board meeting 26 - 10 a.m. Line Dancing public welcome 28 - 12 noon to 3 p.m. AARP Taxes 28 - The Stage Door Dance Classes 30 - Surprise 40th Birthday Party!

LCCOA phone numbers

WCSC phone numbers

Office hours – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday

Office hours – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday

Transportation 815-288-2117 Post House Ballroom 815-288-0892

General offices, Outreach, free phones for hearing/sight impaired: 815-288-9236 Toll-free 855-407-9236

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

Outreach and free phones for hearing/sight impaired: 815-626-7707 Toll-free 888-622-9230

LCCOA can also be reached via e-mail at lccoa@comcast.net

Or via e-mail at info@whitesidecsc.org

Or via the Internet at lccoa.com or posthouseballroom.com

The Emporium Thrift Store, 15 W. Third St., Sterling – 815-535-0368

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

January 2016 • Page 3

Getting help at WCSC LCCOA raffle tickets The Whiteside County Senior Center (WCSC) Aging and Disabled resource staff will continue to take walk-ins on Monday’s from 9 am – 2 pm if you want to see someone at the senior center. Monday’s are the best time to walk in to get help for the license plate discount, free amplified telephone program, energy assistance, or your homestead exemption for seniors and people with disabilities. If you want to see someone for Medicare counseling is by appointment only. If you to see someone at one of our sites in Morrison, Erie, Prophetstown, or Fulton it is also by appointment only please call 815622-9230 extension 194.

If you can’t make your appointment it is important that you please call to cancel as soon as possible. If you’re not able to come in on Monday you can call and make an

appointment. Also it is a good idea to call and ask what you need to bring if you are not sure what you will need on walk in day.

Medicare Advantage Disenrollment period The Medicare Advantage disenrollment period starts on January 1st. During this period you can disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan and you want to go back to Original Medicare. If your Medicare Advantage plan that has prescription coverage you will also be able to enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D plan. If you missed the December 7th Annual Enrollment period to get

Tax forms

January is also the time when tax forms such as W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and SSA-1099 forms are sent out to you in the mail. These forms report your income from 2015.

These forms are important and it is strongly suggested that you keep these forms in your records for at least 3 years even if you don’t need to file income taxes. So if an envelope comes in the mail and say important tax information on the outside you should open it and keep it for your records. We may ask you for that information to help get you with program paperwork. Happy New Year and we look forward to providing the best service we can to you!

Medicare Part D for prescriptions or to switch Medicare Advantage plans unfortunately you will have to wait for the next annual enrollment period which is October 15th – December 7th unless you qualify for a special election. If you have Extra Help or a Low Income Subsidy for Medicare Part D you qualify for a special election to change your plan outside of the annual enrollment period.

Medicare Choices class Our next class on Medicare Choices will be January 15th at 1:30 pm.

This class is designed for those that are becoming new to Medicare and those who want to learn the options available.

Please call ahead and sign up.

Want to help support Lee County Council on Aging and have the chance to win a chunk of change? Then buy some 50/50 raffle tickets. Money raised will help support a variety of Senior Services in Lee County. We are

Trash to Treasure Sale

The Post House Ballroom will be filled with someone’s “trash” for you to find your “treasure” on Saturday, February 27. Mark your calendar to come browse the large selection of donated goods and also check out the book and bake sale in the Post House Community Center. Books are .50 for paper backs and $1.00 for hardcover. Buy 2, get 1 free. Sale is from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm, no early sales will

Anne Barlow Cindy Gabany Jeff Kuhn Dr. Thomas Lawless

The Post House Community Center / Lee County Council on Aging’s (LCCOA) 5th annual Spring Prom is Saturday, April 16, 2016 in the Post House Ballroom, and 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. Nomination forms will be in next

55 AND OVER COMMUNITY RETIRE WITH NO WORRIES!

January 2016 • Page 4

month’s Golden Echo. Start thinking now about who you think should be LCCOA’s spring prom King & Queen and get ready to nominate them.

You can stop in the Center now for a form or wait until next month’s Golden Echo. If you have any questions regarding this upcoming event please contact Jennifer at the Post House Community Center at 815-288-9236.

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Sterling Cottages, LLC • Call Tom Thompson 815-716-8189

204 S. Ottowa Ave 288-2241

AMBOY

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303 E. Main St. 857-2611

Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers

Helen Kay Miller, Vice Chair Fred Nesbit, Secretary

Carol Rick Diane Blaine Roberta Lemoine

be allowed. Do you have unwanted items that you would like to donate to our Trash to Treasure Sale? We are accepting donations Sunday, February 21 8:00 am – noon and also February 22, 23 and 24 from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. No shoes, clothes, cribs or car seats will be accepted. If you have any questions please contact the Post House Community Center at 815288-9236.

5th Annual Spring Prom

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

selling raffle tickets up until the drawing April 16, 2016 at our Annual Spring Prom. You may purchase tickets from LCCOA staff or board members, or stop in the center at 100 W. 2nd St, Dixon. Tickets are 1 for $5 OR 5 for $20.

Teresa Brunick Nancy Varga Donna Newman Mike Wilcox

Sheila Martinez, President Wilbur Mennecke, Treasurer Janice Bell Bob Czuprynski Kay Wallin Robbin Blackert

Golden Echo

Kelly Wilhelmi, Vice President Michele Miller, Secretary

John Espinoza Al Campbell Emily Dykstra Janet Mennecke

Lori Cortez Karla Burn

Sauk Valley Media

NOTES FROM THE KITCHEN

What can we do to make a difference?

I’m not sure what’s more confusing, that Christmas and New Year’s is quickly approaching, or that we have had such unpredictable weather. Where has all the time gone? I hope that in the coming year we can reflect more on what we can do to encourage others more than ourselves.

In celebration of Christmas, let us ponder and mirror the gift we were given by our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus, who sacrificed Himself in order to save us.

Remind yourself that a kind word, a helping hand, or forgiveness is worth more than an expensive present. I want to thank everyone who volunteered their hearts, time, and donations to Santa’s Workshop. Children and parents left gracious smiles and gifts for their loved ones. I want to wish you everyone a Happy New Year. The Center and kitchen will be closed on January 1 for New Year’s Day. Thank you for supporting the WCSC! Food for Thought: What can we do to make a difference in the lives of others?

– San Juana Escobar

The WCSC Achy Breaky Line Dancers danced on Friday, December 11 for our patrons. One of the dances was to “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”

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Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

January 2016 • Page 5

Whiteside County Senior Center welcomes new members We would like to thank the people who recently paid their WCSC membership dues: Wendy Allen Gary Arity Norma Bates Donald & Twila Beard Dean Beatty Beverly Bellini Elizabeth Bivin Virginia Brinkmeier Jane Bopes James & Helen Brown Carol Burke

Leola Casey Anna Cheshier Norma Conrad Viola Cruz Robert Doyle John Espinoza Linda Frank Don & Mary Lou Gaffey James & Doreen Gryder Dave Haas June McCartney Milford Habben Nancy Habben Sharon Hackbarth David Hadley Eugene Hafner

Gene & Nancy Hafner John Henson Gordon & Aimee Kendell Barry Linder Maria Magana Linda Martin Janice Maves G Richard Mckee Bill Mills William & Beverly Nailor Ralph & Priscilla Olinger Kenneth & Beverly Oller John Ramirez Mary Lou Ramirez Theresa Rank Linda Roots

Eugene Sanders Florence Schrader Cindy Schueler Edward & Connie Schweiss Marjore Sibley Dale Smith June Soderquist Edna Spencer Nancy Surdez Phillip & Dorothy Szewczyk Eugene Walls Dale Warren Deloris Whitlock Carroll Whitlock Lester Wilson Kenneth & Paulette Wolf

NOTES FROM THE EMPORIUM

Plan for success with the 4S’s We wish you all a Happy New Year. We are looking forward to another year of providing a place to shop for good merchandise at a reasonable price, located in downtown Sterling. All our profit goes to support the Whiteside County Senior Center.

This equals local people helping another group of local people.

We have winter clothing for the whole family.

We really have a large selection of ladies jeans and slacks. Vests have

been very popular this year for both men and women. By this time, we probably all will be needing scarves and gloves or mittens. The Emporium is a good place to shop for work clothes.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and after the first of the year we will be putting out lots of red. If it has a heart on it, we save it for Valentine’s Day! It doesn’t take a very big budget, to make someone happy. The little people in our lives like to

shop here too.

The Emporium Thrift Center has enjoyed another year, thanks to continued community support.

The 4S’s are a good plan to follow for successShopping Local Shopping Small Support local business Shop where you live In this local area there are enough stores, hospitals, movies, restaurants, churches, banks and much more to supply most all needs.

Affordable Housing Rehab/Ski killed Care Senior Housing with Services

Before your next out of town shopping trip, stop and think what this great community has to offer by applying the 4 S’s.

Thanks for all your donations, and as always, if you come inside and tell us you have a donation outside, one of our volunteers will help you get it into

the store. These winter months are good for weeding out the “stuff” you no longer use. If you have any questions call us at 815-535-0368, open from 9 to 4, every day except Wednesday and Sunday.

– Janice Bell and Maxine Stern

Thank you to volunteers at WCSC 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.

Vern and Darlene Adolph Halo Branding Jen Brubaker Susie Cedro Elizabeth Dillow George Estrada Dolly Gonzalez Kathy Fonder Mary Gilmartin Jana Jacobs Dolly and Leon Kinn Bob McDaniel Chris Norberg Debbie Rigg Gary SIbley Dale Smith Al Thompson Geraldin Trielofff Carrie Whittenberg Staff and residents at Resthave Home

This summer Walnut Manor Nursing Home will have a new name:

™

Our name is changing, not our mission.

To learn more about our community ty in Prophetstown, call (815) 537-5175.

The health care needs of to oday’s seniors are changing.

And, we are changing too!

For more details call Dennis Grobe, Administrator, at: (815) 379-2131 HeritageOfCare.com/walnut • Facebook.com/HeritageOfCare 308 S. Second St.Walnut, IL 61376

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

January 2016 • Page 6

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Thank you to volunteers at Lee County Council on Aging 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 Gerry Stevens

Ruth Ross Nell Nooney Cindy Gabany Norma Jean Reed Kathy Helfrich Barb Friel Jo Mills Roberta Lemoine Teresa Brunick Sharon Sawyer Helen Marshall Bertha Sepulveda Darla Foulker

Patty Frey Nancy Grygiel Becky Reilly Delores Hicks Rita Lander Bob & Sybil Hill Cindy Gabany Janice Russell Joan Janssen Rosie Pate Pat Sword Nicole Hoyle Debbie McPhail

Sandy Woodin Ruth Hess Jennifer Lang Roberta LeMoine Jenny LeMoine Gene Donoho Sherry Perez Matthew Stowell Teresa Brunick Chris Devoney Bobbie Jo Jones Ariealle Jones Rylan Ramsdell

Cathy & Ron Reglin Tina Sheridan Joann Sheridan Julie & Dick McGrail Geoffrey Baker David Binkley Jacqueline Fazekas Justin Wiggins Ryver Rice Daria Bennett Dorothy Barnett Virginia Sheets Geoff Vanderlin

Joel Shoemaker Mike Wilcox Ruth Mammen Samantha Harazin Dave Diveley Tom Lawless Fred Nesbit Kay Miller Chase Glenn Judy Dixon Tom Houck McDonalds Rayovac

Lee County Council on Aging welcomes members Membership dues paid: Doris Adams Bruce Anderson Patricia Anderson Peggy Andreas Rose Appenheimer John Atkinson Norma Atkinson Judith Barnard Marilyn Barnes Betty Bay Joyce Beaird William Wayne Beaird Penelope Beardin Russell Beck Neva R. Becker Carol Biester Ronald Biester M. Dianne Billquist Diane Blaine Kathleen Bodmer Jean Bogott Lyle Bogott Colleen K. Bonnell Raymond E. Bonnell Maria M. Bonnell Margaret L. Bonnell Boyd Bonnewell Duane Bothe Helen Bothe Jeanette Brandau Ronald Brandau Robert Brandenburg Billie Bratt Edward Bratt Karen Breunig Michael Brunick Teresa Brunick Tilly Buch Betsy Bulfer Arthur Burgess Lois Burgess Jim Burke Lucy Burke Sheryl Bushman Sauk Valley Media

Alberta Callahan Emma Carnaghi Joan Christoffersen Mike Ciaccio Barbara Coglianese Jack Coleman Betty Jane Conner Ralph Contreras Rose Coss Julia Cover John Cramer Ruth E. Cramer Ruth O. Cramer Jo Anne Dalke Kyle Dalke Teresa Didier Dora Dimmig George Disch Marilyn Disch David Diveley Linda Djupstrom Mary Drew Sharon Dunphy Glenn Dunseth Janice Dunseth Erika Edson Elverta Eller Lois Erickson Jane Faber Doug Farster Julie Farster Patricia Forgue Jane Freres Patty Frey Kathleen Garren June Gascoigne Phyllis Gates Ann Gerdes Ruth V. Gerdes Renee Gilge Helen Glessner Glenda Gray Harold Gray Annie Grove Mary Ellen Hamburg Carol Hart

Stanley Hart Charlotte Henert Barbara Higgs Linda Hill Martin D. Hill Darlene Hinkle Carol Holland Curtis Holland Lorraine Hussung Edward Jacobsen Elaine Jacox Irene James Mary Ann Jones Fern Josephsen Evelyn Kalas Joan B. Kessel W.C. Kessel Kathy Kessel Marcella Kitson Thomas Kitson Bonnie Klamen Mary Ann Knoll Richard Koenig Lela Kraber June Kremnitzer Jeanne Kuhn Jeffrey Kuhn Carolyn Lahman Paul Lahman Jane Landreth Roger Landreth Shirley Lewallen Isabelle Long Jerrell D. Long Marilyn J. Long Marilyn Lynch Colette Massoni John McClintock Carol McCoy Wayne Meixell Frank Muhleback John Murphy Mary Murphy Sharon K. Murphy Juanita Myers David R. Neel

Fred Nesbit Marybelle Novak Delores O’Neal Mildred O’Rorke Billie Osborne Charles Osborne Charles Oster Donna Oster Leo Peterson Jackey Phillips Dorothy Pyse Eileen Ramsdell Irene Ramsdell Shirley J. Rees James Rhodes Harold Risdon LeVaun Risdon Rock River Ready Mix, Inc. Dorene M. Rooney Joe Rudolphi Teresa Rudolphi Loretta Samuel LaFay Santos Sandra Schamberger Diane Schoaf John Schoaf Betty Schultz Robert Schultz Cathy Seagren Mary Sekse Shirley M. Selgestad Marilyn Shippert Ila Mae Sieberns Kenneth Sieberns Shirley Sivits William Sivits Evelyn M. Smith Hilda Smith Jack R. Smith Joyce Snyder Patricia Spratt Winnie Stahr Betty Staton Geraldine Stevens Robert Stevens

Golden Echo

Ken Strock Nancy Strock Alice Swinton Maurice Swinton James E. Toms Ernie Topping, Jr. Gayle Topping James Vaile Mary Vaile Mildred Weidman Donald Wendt Sylvia Williams

Gladys Willstead Don Wolf Donna Wolf Theresa Wolf June Wolzen Stan Wolzen Sandra Wooden Edwin Yingling Pat Yingling Emily Yurgil James Yurgil Maryolou Zimmerly

January 2016 • Page 7

WCSC

Santa’s Workshop I would like to thank all the volunteers from all the different agencies that helped make the Santa’s workshop a success again this year. I am sorry if we missed anyone. The kids had a great time. Everyone enjoyed the karaoke and Christmas music, face painting and the balloon creations as well as a delicious breakfast.

Anyone wishing to donate to the workshop next year is more that welcome to bring items to the senior center.

Please make sure they are not chipped, broken, worn, and have complete parts, and in working condition.

Shawna Wyckstandt Abby Noble Madeline Le Fevre Laura Richards Tim Richards Jacob Richards Lindsey Anderson Sarah Shaw Tina Schoffner Loren McCormick Sue Renner Juanita Escobar Amber Roots Eadon Esobar Linda Roots Estamae Williams Wendy Eckel Charlotte Ernst Pat Estes Penny Rick Dorothy Szewczyk Phil Szewczyk Cindy Schuler Mary Nasluchacz Stella Sagal Dee Robinson

Annette Cady Lupita Serrano Rebecca Arnolts Marisela Herrera Michaela Bates Keith Dela Vega Kanna Katie Cover Mikayla Watkins Kimberly Smith Chantel Ordean Casi Kurschner Emily Ditzler Martha Martens Alexis Martens Isaiah Martens Frankie Alfano Rachael Brummel Lori Cortez Instructor Cindy Schuler Angelina Karen O’Malley Janet Mennecke Doug Vandersee JoEllen Vandersee

Kids getting their pictures taken with Santa January 2016 • Page 8

The elves wrapping gifts for the children

An elf shopping with a child

John making balloon animals for the kids

Santa’s Workshop

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

HERE TO HELP

LCCOA Outreach Department Are you turning 65?

Do you have questions on Medicare or possible programs you may qualify for at this point in your life? Perhaps your past 65 but have never thought about what we at LCCOA can do for you, and with all the services we have to offer, you should check us out.

The Lee County Council on Aging’s Outreach Department is here to help. Ruth and Samantha are both SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) Certified and able to assist individuals with questions you may have on Medicare as well as enrollment into a Part D plan. We have received training through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging (NIAAA) as well as the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC) to be able to offer other various assistance as well.

Ruth is certified with the Alliance of Information Referral System (AIRS), has a basic skills certificate in sign language and the Agency is an Aged and Disabled Resource Center (ADRC), through the training that Ruth has completed.

What this means is that we are able to help with a variety of programs, including local, state and federal, and we have resources that can help you to find the right agency for the types of assistance and services you may need. Please remember that income based programs require proof, this proof includes your Federal/State taxes if you are still filing, as Sauk Valley Media

well as all the paperwork that was used for them. If you no longer need to file taxes, that’s ok, we just need all paperwork that you would use if you were filing taxes, included but not limited to all 1099’s for Social Security, pensions, interest etc. Please be sure to keep all of this paperwork together and for the duration of the year, without this paperwork we will not be able to process your applications.

QMB/SLIB/QI-1: An income/asset based program available to help individuals pay their Part B premium and deductible. This program is headed up by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services.

Medicaid and Snap Benefits (Food Stamps): We are available to help seniors, aged 60 and over, with paperwork for these programs, which are then processed by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services.

Benefit Access Application (formerly the Circuit Breaker): An income only based program available to provide a license plate sticker discount for one vehicle per household per year. This application is done every two years and is available to those aged 65 and older or a person receiving full disability. You can only re-apply 90 days prior to your expiration date.

ITAC: The Illinois Telecommunications Medicare: All aspects of Access Corporation has the various parts to Medi“test sites” (like ours) care including Part D. throughout Illinois to What is Part D? Part D is LIHEAP: This program, help individuals of any the part of Medicare that known as the Low Income age or income to receive covers your prescriptions, Home Energy Assistance a free Amplified, CapTel, this coverage is optional, Program (LIHEAP) is or TTY phone to those however, should you offered by Tri County who are hard of hearchoose Not to take a plan Opportunities Council ing on their standard then you will be penalized (TCOC), we are available land-line phone. Look1% of the bench mark to those individuals over ing forward they will be price for every month you the age of 60 to help fill extending that service to go without coverage, you out the paperwork for the include special devices can only obtain coverTCOC. for cellular phones as age during your Initial Enrollment Period or the Annual Open Enrollment Period, unless you are qualified as low income subsidy. There are no income guidelines for Part D and everyone is encouraged to look into getting a plan to avoid penalties at a later date.

If you have questions on Medicare or Part D, need assistance obtaining a plan, or just want to learn *Gaming Match Play mach hines brough ht to you more, please feel free to

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Low Income Subsidy (LIS): Also known as Extra Help, this Federal program helps an individual of a certain income/ asset standard to qualify for help paying for their Part D plan, as well as the co-pays and deductibles of that plan.

00

and we match it!

Limit one match per customer per day.

$2.00 Busch Light & Bud Light Bottles for all customers!

OPEN 9am-11pm Monday-Saturday and 11am -11pm Sunday

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104 S. Peoria, Dixon • 815-288-4448 www.MamaCiminosDixon.com

Golden Echo

well, keep watching the Echo for that update in the near future.

Ruth and Samantha are always looking for ways to improve our services, and help the community Tax Assessment Freeze and the senior popula(TAF): We assist the tion, to a better way of court house with their living. They provide paperwork for established area assistance at local clientele who need assis- sites in Paw Paw, Ashton, tance in filling out the Franklin Grove, Amboy, paperwork to freeze the Sublette, and at Counassessed value on their tryside Manor monthly, home. We then take it as well as occasionto the Court House for ally offering special prothem. grams at various times of the year.

Many services are provided at LCCOA, howIf you have questions, ever the above listed are would like to learn our top priority. We do more about any of the however occasionally programs, or have any receive funding granted suggestions on ways to to us throughout the year improve our Outreach for the use of GAP and Department, please Respite Care, so that we feel free to contact us at can help individuals in 1-815-288-9236. need. We are also able to provide assistance and/ or programs to Grandparents (age 55 and over) who are raising their Grandchildren.

When It Comes To Your Health Trust The Professionals We Offer All Your Home Health Care Needs

• Oxygen Rental • Seat Lift Chairs • Blood Pressure Monitoring Devices • Sleep Disorder Supplies • Hospital Bed Rentals • Shower Aids

• Daily Living Aids • Wheelchairs & Scooters • Mastectomy Products

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RENTAL • SALES • SERVICE

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January 2016 • Page 9

TAX RETURN SERVICES

MEDICARE Q&A

Taxpayer information

Does Medicare Cover Flu Shots?

Tax-Aide volunteers will be providing free income tax return preparation services during 2016: • Whiteside County Senior Center in Sterling: By appointment only. Call 815-622-9230. Monday, February 1 through April 18 and four Saturdays, February 20 & 27 and March 19 & 26 • LCCOA in Dixon: Mondays and Thursdays from 12 to 4 starting Jan. 28.

Call 815-288-9236 to set up an appointment.

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 moment 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/ or state tax return. 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 advisor if you have questions that we cannot answer.

2) In order to assist the volunteer in accurately and completely preparing your return, please be sure you have the following required documents with you: January 2016 • Page 10

Some identification that contains your picture.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will provide a photo I.D. free of charge for persons 65 years of age and more.

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

Your Affordable Care Act documentation received to verify Market Place Information, Employer Insurance or Personal Insurance Information.

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

Expense related documents: 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 cancelled check is not required.

Other helpful documents to bring: 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. (May be required.)

3) 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 which is available 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 of these 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.

4) 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.

5) 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 nonmember.

6) 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.

7) 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.

8) 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.

9) 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: 1-888687-2277 or 1-800-4242277 (toll-free) or send an email to:Taxaide@aarp.org.

Golden Echo

Dear Marci, I want to get a flu shot, but I’m not sure if it will be covered by Medicare. Does Medicare cover flu shots?

- Norma (Las Cruces, NM) Dear Norma, Yes, Medicare covers flu shots. Medicare Part B, the part of Medicare that covers most outpatient services, covers a flu shot once every flu season.

The flu season typically runs from November until April. This means that Medicare may cover a flu shot twice in one calendar year. For example, if you get a shot in January 2016 for the 2015-2016 flu season, you could get another shot in November 2016 for the 2016-2017 flu season.

The flu shot is covered by Medicare Part B as a preventive service. This means that you will not have to meet your Part B deductible in order for Medicare to cover your flu shot. This is true whether you get your Medicare benefits through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan.

If you have Original Medicare, you can get your flu shot from any health care provider, such as a doctor or pharmacy, as long as the provider accepts Medicare. You will pay nothing for a seasonal flu shot if you go to a provider that accepts Medicare and takes assignment. A provider that takes assignment accepts the Medicare-approved amount for health care services as full payment. If you see a provider who does not take assignment, you may have an out-of-pocket cost for your flu shot. You can call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your health care provider to learn whether your health care provider accepts Medicare and takes assignment. The majority providers throughout the United States take assignment.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your plan should pay for the entire cost of the flu shot as long as you follow the plan’s rules. For example, a plan may agree to pay for the entire cost of your flu shot, as long as you receive it from doctors or pharmacies that are within the plan’s network.

Although a plan may impose some requirements, it cannot require you to get a referral before it will cover the cost of the flu shot.

- 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 Sauk Valley Media

Activities and Meetings Weekly Post House Community Center Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m. – LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 6:00 p.m. – Duplicate Bridge

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 9 a.m. – Golden Kiwanis 10 a.m.-11 a.m. – Line Dancing 11:30 a.m. – LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1:00 p.m. – Pinochle

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1:00 p.m. – Pinochle

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m. – LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 1:00 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 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) Noon – Organized Wii Bowling games 12:30 p.m. – Duplicate Bridge 1:00 p.m. – Pinochle

Whiteside County Senior Center Mondays 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, socializing, computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Beginning Euchre, call ahead 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 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, socializing, computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Beading Class 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. – 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 1:00 p.m. – Karoke – fun!

Wednesdays 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, socializing, computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Canasta 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 12:30 p.m. – Bridge, call ahead.

1:00 p.m. – Bingo, check Monthly with who

Thursdays 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, socializing, computer lab 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Cards “Hand and Foot” game, $2 1:00 p.m. – Euchre,- $2 to play, bring a snack.

1:00 p.m. – Chair Exercises – FUN with music

Fridays 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Playing pool, cards, socializing, computer lab 10:00 a.m. – Intermediate Line Dancing – check schedule for where it is 11:00 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

Monthly Post House Community Center Jan. 7 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at Paw Paw Community Center Jan 8 9:30 a.m. – Bingo sponsored by Sterling Pavilion

Jan 10 12:30 p.m. – Euchre Tournament ($)

Jan 12 2:00 p.m. – Mini Spelling Bee

Jan. 11 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at Ashton Library 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at Franklin Grove Library

Jan 19 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.– Blood Pressure Checks by Polo Rehabilitation & Healthcare

Jan 20 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at Amboy Community Center 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at OLPH Hall Sublette Jan 22 9:30 a.m. – Bingo sponsored by Lee County Council on Aging 6:30 p.m. – Open Mic Night

Jan. 25 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. – LCCOA Caseworker at Countryside Manor Jan 27 12:30 p.m. – Puzzle and Games

Whiteside County Senior Center Jan. 1 Site closed for New Years Day Jan. 6 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Blood pressure check by CGH Home Nursing 11:25 a.m. – Celebrating January’s birthdays 1:00 p.m. – Bingo. Prizes by Oregon Living and Rehab, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Jan. 13 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. – Blood Pressure Check by Gaffey Home Nursing 1:00 p.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Sterling Pavilion, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Jan. 9 1:00 p.m. – Sauk Computer User Group will meet with a question and answer time.

There will be a short business meeting with the election of new officers. There will be a presentation at 2:30 p.m. on a computer related subject. Everyone with an interest in computers/technology are invited and refreshments will be available

Jan. 20 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Blood Pressure check by Sauk Valley Living and Rehab 1:00 p.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Sauk Valley Living and Rehab, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Jan. 27 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Blood Pressure Check by Sterling Pavilion 1:00 p.m. – Bingo, sponsored by Regency Care of Sterling, snacks by WCSC (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!

Jan. 12 – American Red Cross Blood Drive 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

Jan. 20 – Foot Clinic, Call Sharon for appointments 815-718-5294

Jan. 26 – American Red Cross Blood Drive 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Jan. 27 – Early out Kids Club for 3rd grade through 5th graders

Jan. 28 – Cabin Fever Ladies Night out 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

If you are interested 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 815-288-9236 or 855-407-9236.

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

January 2016 • Page 11

Upcoming Trips Nashville Show Tour

Washington D.C. Trip

June 19-25, 2016, 7 days and 6 nights Cost $749 members and $799 nonmembers Insurance $69. Can put all on one check.

April 14-19, 2016 6 days and 5 nights Cost $547 members and $597 nonmembers Insurance $45. Can put all on one check.

Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stepon guides. Features a guided tour of Washington D.C., plus see the U.S. Capitol, White House, National Archives, Embassy Row, Georgetown, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr National Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and much more. Sign-up begins July 1. Hopefully, there will be cherry blossoms to see. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about the trip.

Big Band “Swing Music” Radio Remote Show at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet Tuesday, April 19, 2016 Cost: $75 members, $80 non members

Depart Rock Falls Community Center at 8:00 am and return approx. 5:00 pm.

Depart Dixon Wal-mart at 8:30 am and return approx. 4:30 pm.

Do you love the Big Band Sound from the 1930s and 1940s? Let us take you back to 1935 for a Big Band “Swing Music” Radio Remote Show at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate. They transform the Victorian Ballroom into a 1930s Jazz Club, the Limestone Lounge. Relive this glorious era with a “live radio broadcast show” by The Alan Gresik Swing Shift Orchestra, complete with vocalists and radio actors. Prior to this fabulous show enjoy a delicious lunch consisting of Chicken Cordon Bleu, chef’s choice starch and steamed vegetable. Lunch also includes fresh garden salad with warm rolls, coffee or tea and dessert. We arrive early enough for you to enjoy a self-guided tour of the Jacob Henry Mansion.

Sights to see: Guided tour of Nashville, Ride on the Delta Flatboats inside the Opryland Hotel, show at the famous Grand Ole Opry, guided tour of beautiful Belle Meade Plantation, Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour, and much much more. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Will be signing up for this trip in September 1, 2015.

Canada New England Cruise September 30, 2016 to October 7, 2016

On Friday September 30, 2016, we will board the bus to the airport, 7 nights on the NCL Dawn, 1 night in Quebec, Sydney, Halifax, N.S., Saint John, N.B., Bar Harbor, Maine. Cruise will end in Boston. Prices start at $2000 for an inside cabin. Deposit of $600 due at signing. Balance due June 23, 2016. All deposits due by Jan. 1, 2016. Call 815-622-9230 and ask for Glenda. Hurry – space available for5 people.

New York City September 21-28, 2016, 7 days and 6 nights Cost $739 members and $789 nonmembers Insurance $69. Can put all on one check.

Sights to see: Guided tour of Manhattan, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial Statue of Liberty, and much much more. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Will be signing up for this trip in October 1, 2015.

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

Pinochle card players bought raffle tickets in Joe Duis’ name so he could win this lap blanket for his wife in the nursing home. He just loved the blue one, which was made by Dorthy Szechez.

Pictured are Dale Smith, Dorthy Szechez, Joe Duis and Mary Nashulez.

January 2016 • Page 12

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Meals for January Serving at Lee County Council on Aging Jan. 1 - SITE CLOSED Note: 8 oz. low-fat milk served with all lunches

Jan. 4-8 Monday: BBQ chicken breast, cheesy potatoes, capri blend vegetables, dinner roll and fresh orange.

Tuesday: A) Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes and gravy, carrots, wheat bread, fruit cocktail B) Ham/ chicken noodle. Wednesday: Sweet & sour, meatballs, fluffy rice, steamed broccoli and diced pears. Thursday: Mushroom swiss burger on bun, buttered red potatoes, baked beans, apricots. Friday: Fish patty, wheat bun, potato pancakes, green beans, applesauce and tarter sauce.

Jan. 11-15 Monday: Spaghetti with meatsauce, steamed peas, whole kernel corn, garlic bread and apricots. Tuesday: Citrus baked ham, sweet potatoes, capri blend vegetables, wheat bread, Jell-O with fruit. Wednesday: Bratwurst with kraut, hot dog bun, potato wedges, baked beans and chilled applesauce. Thursday: A) Tuna noodle casserole, broccoli, dinner roll, baked peaches B) R.Beef/Cr.Mush.

Friday: Cheesy beef taco, flour tortilla, lettuce/tomato, Spanish rice, refried beans and fresh fruit.

Jan. 18-22 Monday: Chicken parmesan, pasta w/ marinara, steamed broccoli, dinner roll, diced pears. Tuesday: Sausage gravy w/ biscuit, hash brown potato, fruit juice, baked peaches. Wednesday: Baked chicken QTR, mashed pot/gravy, carrots, tossed salad/drsg., roll/pumpkin bar.

Thursday: A) Pork fritter, au gratin potatoes, winter blend veggies, dinner roll/butter, mandrin oranges B) Turkey/vegetable. Friday: Pepper steak, mashed pot/gravy, corn, wheat bread, apricots.

Jan. 25-29 Monday: Hamburger patty, wheat bun, mac & cheese, Jap. blend veggies, diced pears. Tuesday: A) BBQ chicken breast, cheesy potatoes, buttered peas, dinner roll, fruit cocktail B) Chicken sal/tomato. Wednesday: Salisbury steak, mashed pot/ gravy, coin carrots, dinner roll, sliced peaches. Thursday: Cheese ravioli w/ meatsauce, brussel sprouts, waxed beans, garlic bread, apricots.

Friday: Chicken fiesta taco, Spanish rice, cheese, lettuce, tomato, refried beans, pineapple.

Serving at Whiteside County Senior Center Dec. 28-31 Monday: Goulash, salad, vegetable, garlic bread and dessert. Tuesday: Salmon patty, creamed peas, potato, salad and dessert. Wednesday: Barbecue pork ribs, tator tots with cheese sauce, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Chicken breast, dressing, vegetable, salad and dessert.

Jan. 4-8 Monday: Ravioli, salad, garlic bread and dessert. Tuesday: Ham and scalloped potatoes, vegetable, salad and dessert. Wednesday: Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Cream of chicken and biscuits, salad and dessert. Friday: Beer battered cod or chicken breast, potato, vegetable and dessert.

Jan. 11-15 Monday: Goulash, garlic bread, vegetable, salad and dessert. Tuesday: Beef and noodles, vegetable, salad and dessert. Wednesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Stuffed green peppers, potato, vegetable and dessert. Friday: Fresh baked salmon, potato, vegetable and dessert.

Jan. 18-22 Monday: Sloppy Joes, chips, potato salad and dessert. Tuesday: Lasagna, garlic bread, salad and dessert. Wednesday: Pork roast, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable and dessert. Friday: Chicken tostadas, rice, refried beans and dessert.

Jan. 25-29 Monday: Oven fried chicken, baked potato, vegetable and dessert. Tuesday: Ham and cabbage boil, vegetable, salad and dessert.

Wednesday: Italian Beef sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, vegetable and dessert. Thursday: Chicken and noodles, vegetable, salad and dessert. Friday: Barbeque pork ribs, potato, vegetable and dessert.

Serving at Golden Meals in Whiteside County Dec. 28-31 Monday: Chili, cornbread, applesauce, milk. Tuesday: Sausage gravy over biscuit, hash brown, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk. Wednesday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots, peaches, bread, margarine and milk. Thursday: SITE CLOSED Friday: SITE CLOSED

Jan. 4-8 Monday: Open-face turkey sandwich with mashed potatoes, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk.

Tuesday: BBQ chicken, seasoned potatoes wedges, 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: Beef stew, biscuit, applesauce, bread, margarine and milk.

Jan. 11-15 Monday: Sloppy Joes, potatoes wedges, mixed vegetables, fruit, bread, margarine and milk.

Tuesday: BBQ chicken legs, garlic mashed potatoes, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk. Wednesday: Baked ham, sweet potatoes, mixed vegetable, fruit, bread, margarine and milk. Thursday: Bratwurst with sauerkraut on a bun, mashed potatoes, baked beans, bread, margarine and milk. Friday: Tuna salad sandwich, baked beans, applesauce, bread, margarine and milk.

Jan. 18-22 Monday: SITE CLOSED Tuesday: Baked turkey with sweet potatoes, green beans, bread, margarine and milk. Wednesday: Meatloaf, ranch potatoes, corn, fruit, bread, margarine and milk. Thursday: Ham and scalloped potatoes, green beans, fruit, Jell-O, bread, margarine and milk. Friday: Chicken salad sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, fruit, bun and milk.

Jan. 25-29 Monday: Chili, cornbread, applesauce and milk. Tuesday: Sausage gravy over biscuit, hash browns, peas and fruit. Wednesday: Sallsbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots and peaches. Thursday: Easy chicken casserole, potatoes, corn and fruit. Friday: Brat, baked beans, potato salad and fruit.

Robert Fulton Community Center Dec. 30 Potato soup, crackers, ham salad sandwich and cookie Jan. 6 Meal sponsored by Good Samaritan Society Sauk Valley Media

Jan. 8 Baked chicken breast, au gratin potato, green beans and dessert Jan. 13 Spaghetti with meat sauce, tossed salad, garlic roll and dessert

Jan. 15 Meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gray, vegetable, roll with butter and dessert Jan. 20 Sloppy Jo on a bun, salad, baked beans and cookies

Golden Echo

Jan. 22 Scalloped potatoes and ham, roll with butter, vegetable and dessert Jan. 27 Meal sponsored by Harbor Crest and Windsor Manor

Jan. 29

Beef tips over noodles, roll with butter, vegetable and dessert

January 2016 • Page 13

Fun and fitness come together in the bowling alley The Senior bowlers and Plum Hollow Lanes hope that you had a Merry Christmas and want to wish you all a very happy New Year.

We bowl every Monday and Thursday at 9:00

a.m. We would like to invite you to join us.

Come once a month, twice a week or anything in between for some fun, exercise, and a little competition all rolled into one great morning.

Norma Burmeister ............................ 177 .. 452 Chico Contreras ............................ 194 .. 530 Bob Dalziel ........ 212 .. 533 Charlotte Deirdorff ............................ 169 .. 446 Dan Dunphy ..... 235 .. 622

Dick Janssen...... 215 .. 565 Cliff Golden ....... 213 .. 553 Bob Joyce........... 231 .. 608 Darrell Kitsmiller ............................ 202 .. 548 Bruce Kleinmaier ............................ 245 .. 616 Pat Kleinmaier .. 203 .. 545

Jan Kuepker ....... 180 .N/A Ken Masters ...... 193 .. 522 Ron Odenthal .... 190 .. 519 June Partington ............................ 174 .. 480 Larry Reed ......... 216 .. 554 Verna Reiff ......... 146 .. 394

Linda Richards .. 226 .. 531 Rich Senn .......... 217 .. 546 Jim Shuman ...... 173 .. 476 Therma Smith ... 187 .. 461 Dave Stewart ..... 199 .. 484 Glenn Stroh ....... 191 .. 512 Jay Wolf.............. 199 .. 515

Transportation Great News for WCPT & LOTS! First Fully-Funded, Long-Term Surface Transportation Bill in Ten Years President Obama signed into law a five year transportation infrastructure bill on December 4. The measure will invest $61 billion in our nation’s public transportation systems and authorizes more than $300 billion in the nation’s surface transportation infrastructure. The public transportation industry applauds both chambers of Congress for their bipartisan votes to pass the bill, titled “Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act” (FAST Act).

“This is a great day for America,” said American Public

Transportation Association (APTA) Chair Valarie J. McCall and board member of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority. “On behalf of the 1,500 APTA member organizations, I commend Congress and the Obama Administration for their bipartisan leadership in passing this long-term FAST Act. This legislation is critical for Americans across the country who take 35 million trips on public transportation each day, equating to 10.8 billion trips annually.”

“As the first long-term surface transportation bill in ten

years, the significance of this legislation cannot be overstated,” said APTA President and CEO Michael Melaniphy. “This is excellent news for America’s public transportation systems, their riders, and the small, medium, and large communities they serve. A well-funded, long-term surface transportation authorization is critical to the economic competitiveness and prosperity of our nation’s communities. To sum it up, wherever public transportation goes, community grows.”

Excerpt from Passenger Transport.

Thank You from WCPT and LOTS! We would like to thank all of the community members that supported our Adopt-A-Rider program! Their generosity will help numerous residents get to vital resources. On behalf of everyone at WCPT, we would like to thank you again and we hope each and every one of you had a very merry holiday season.

Sincerely, Tori McDaniel, Director of Transportation/PCOM WCPT Jaime Blatti, Executive Director of LOTS

Scott Kennay started driving for LeeOgle Transportation in November and is excited to be a part of the team!

Welcome Scott!

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 5:30 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

January 2016 • Page 14

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Upcoming Special Events New Event - Karoke at WCSC Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m.

Euchre Tournament at Post House Community Center

Euchre Tournament at WCSC

Mini Spelling Bee at Post House Community Center

Come join in the fun! Or just come and listen. This is a great musical time and anyone can sing with us. Plenty of room. Come for lunch first if you want from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 10 – 12:30 p.m. sign in, 1:00 p.m. start $5.00 entry, 25¢ a set – 100% payback

Tuesday, January 12 at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, January 24 at 1:00 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.

Show off your spelling talents at LCCOA’s mini Spelling Bee. It’s a fun and brain-healthy activity, and it’s FREE! Come on in to LCCOA and show off your knowledge, meet some new friends and have some fun! All ages welcome!

Price is Right Game at WCSC

Open Mic Night at Post House Community Center

Wednesday, January 13 at 10:45 a.m.

Let’s have some fun and play the Price is Right. Guess the price of an item and win that item! We will do several items. Stay for lunch then of meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable, drink and dessert for $5.

Medicare Information class at the WCSC Friday, January 15 at 1:30 p.m.

The basic information that we provide will help our community members that 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 (SHIP) volunteer counselors. SHIP is a free counseling service provided by the Illinois Department of Aging. Please call to sign up in advanced!

Friday, January 22 6:30 p.m. doors open, 7:00 first act on stage

Come showcase your talent or come and enjoy the entertainment every fourth Friday. Singers, dancers, poets, comedians, guitarist, acoustic instruments, anybody is welcome!

Puzzles and Games at Post House Community Center Wednesday, January 27 at 12:30 p.m.

Get out of the cold and join us for an afternoon of fun and games. We will be testing ourselves with riddles and puzzles. Prizes will be given and treats will be eaten.

Bridge participants at the inaugural session of the Dixon Area Evening Bridge Club. The games are open to any Bridge players, and meets at the Post House Community Center on Monday nights at 5:30 LCCOA employee Jennifer Lang presents Buddy p.m. New players are welcome. For more informa- LOTS driver Dave Diveley & LCCOA board member Bags representative Jenny LeMoine with a check from tion, contact Club Manager Fred Spitzzeri at Tom Lawless helped serve drinks at Breakfast money raised at the November Quarter Madness.

630-917-5858 or spitzzeri@aol.com. with Santa on December 5.

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

January 2016 • Page 15

IF YOU’RE 50+ Sterling Federal’s Four Seasons Club is for you.

Have fun, enjoy friends on Four Seasons daytrips and tours.

Join us for monthly card parties and special Four Seasons events.

Only Sterling Federal’s Four Seasons Club offers…

• Travel Points Program. Members earn valuable points redeemable for free travel.

• Free Trips to selected members on each trip.

• Special Opportunities and benefits you deserve from your bank.

Thursday, January 28 Fireside Dinner Theatre

UPCOMING EVENTS Wednesday, January 20 Bingo!

Dixon South Office Community Room 1-3 p.m.

Wednesday, March 23 Shear Madness Circa ‘21 Theatre, Rock Island, IL

March 5-10

Arizona Adventure (including 3 Cubs Spring Training Games)

March 13-19

California Coast: Hearst Castle, Big Sur & More!

“Put yourself in the Four Seasons Picture!”

C’mon, join the club today!

There’s no membership fee.You simply need to be age 50+ & have total deposits of $20,000 or more with Sterling Federal Bank.

For details, call one of our Club Directors: Pam Stange in Sterling 815-622-3362, Julie Brady in Dixon 815-288-3327, or Lynn Todtz in Clinton 563-242-9111 January 2016 • Page 16

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Sauk Valley Media