SVM_Golden Echo_March 2022

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 15 • MARCH 2022 • EDITION 3

LCCOA driver Betsy Foy, LCCOA/Post House Ballroom assistant Aaliyah Baker, and Kerri Villa-Nantz from Liberty Village of Rochelle helped deliver over 40 lunches, and heartfelt smiles, to our seniors on Valentine’s Day

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INSIDE From the Directors........................................2 Thank You’s............................................ 4 & 5 Membership Dues Paid.......................... 4 & 5

Photos.............................................................6 Weekly, Monthly Activities..........................8 Upcoming Trips.............................................9

Meal Menus................................................. 10 Upcoming Special Events........................... 11 Outreach........................................................7

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

The passing of friends

We are so pleased to welcome Kathy Schmidt to LCCOA’s family. Kathy comes to us with a wealth of SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) knowledge. She is a great addition to our Outreach Department. Samantha is excited to partner with a seasoned SHIP counselor. What a great team we have here at LCCOA, with April and Marisa running comparisons, and helping with all the other wonderful programs our Center has to offer. Kathy fits right in with our family, ready to help and switch gears. We here at LCCOA wear many hats. From answering phones to driving a bus, you will never hear “It is not my job.” They are all compassionate and dedicated employees. Thank God we have them. Welcome Kathy and thank you for joining our team.

Our hearts are broken here at LCCOA. We have lost so many of our wonderful seniors this past month. The tears were shed, but laughter sprung from those tears as we remembered special moments with all our passing friends. Tom Dockery passed away, leaving an empty space on our vehicles.

A day wouldn’t go by without us speaking with Tom. He always had a joke to share; and let me tell you we didn’t always get them, but we love Tom, and we will miss him. Tom, don’t be telling God your jokes; he just might not get them either! We know Tom will be missed by all his children, especially his Gina.

Ann Geesey — Not only did Ann ride our senior buses, she lived next door to LCCOA. Ann had many friends at the Nachusa House, and her loving daughter, Lisa, called and visited weekly, if not daily. We not only got to know Ann, we were pleased to know that Lisa became part of LCCOA’s family of friends.

Kay Coffey — Just a lovely lady that was a caregiver to her longtime companion and friend. Kay rode our LCCOA senior vehicles weekly. It is hard not to get to know our riders when you speak with them weekly or sometimes daily.

We will miss Kay. She can never be replaced in the hearts of so many.

Mark Smith, long-time Dixon resident and senior, passed away. He will be missed by all his friends and his LCCOA family. His neighbors had such kind

words to say about Mark. Mark rode our vehicles all around Dixon. We here always joked how early Mark would get LCCOA’s Senior Transportation up and running.We will miss those early mornings with Mark; he was so cheery as if it was noon.

George Brooks, another of our senior riders, passed away. We were so happy to know George and to hear his stories.

Many said he was a quiet man, but he shared his life with us. Thank you for supporting LCCOA. We will miss our visits and talks.

Last, but not lease, Helen “Minnie” Sheridan and her husband Bill were/ are great supporters of LCCOA. We were saddened to hear of her passing from Bill. She left behind 3 children, 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. What a legacy to give to this world, and what a loss to Dixon, and especially to Lee County Council on Aging.

We will miss all our senior friends, but even though they are no longer with us, they will remain in our hearts forever. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t somehow tie an event, a joke or story that would remind us of our friends. They are always in our prayers.

Farewell, dear friends ... until we meet again.

LCCOA: a place where you belong, a place to call home.

— Susan

we receive all your messages, and it has many other wonderful features too.

The big plus is these new phones were donated to us, and the cost of the monthly service bill is less than what we have been paying.

Whiteside Area Career Center is providing us with interns to not only help our seniors with technology but provide monthly blood pressure opportunities. What an opportunity for seniors to not only take advantage of these services but help shape our future leaders of the community. What a blessing you can be by helping a young nursing student practice their bedside manner or give an IT student the chance to share their talents.

The Sauk Computer Users Group has volunteered to give one-on-one classes to those interested in learning about computers. Surf Broadband has volunteered to conduct Streaming Classes. This is a must-see presentation and can help you save money on your TV watching options. It’s such a useful class, we will have the presentation three times in March, with afternoon and evening classes available, so the whole community has the opportunity to learn how to stream.

SBM was able to hook us up with a grant that allowed us to purchase wall dividers to create a card room and craft room. We hope to have the food pantry fully operational by April. The Church Women’s United group has donated funds to start this project.

Our activities are starting to shape back up again, with seniors starting to volunteer to lead groups. AARP is back in the building on Mondays to help with taxes. (Outreach staff will be available that day to help with P-Tax forms for senior freeze and senior discounts for

homeowners). The pinochle group has volunteered to lead beginning card classes. Beacon of Hope Hospice has agreed to sponsor Veterans Coffee time.

CGH and Shepard Premier Senior Living have agreed to sponsor upcoming bingo. (We have more sponsorship spots open if your organization is interested in sponsoring this event). Pastor Al Campbell has volunteered to lead a bible study on Tuesday mornings. And our new part-time receptionist, Yvonne, has volunteered to lead a Breakfast Club once a month (call the Center to reserve your spot to visit local restaurants for breakfast; meal cost will be your responsibility).

United Way has volunteered to feature our transformation (once complete) on their sites. We will be a work in progress for a few months, so thank you for your understanding. It’s a great feeling to have so many in our community reaching out to me and come to our aid. I appreciate each and every one of you.

— Susie

By Susan Lawler February is over and it is March. The groundhog did not see his shadow, or did he? If you read one report he saw his shadow, and if you read another, he did not. I am going with “we have 6 more weeks of winter” — what do you think?

Send me an e-mail at lccoa@comcast. net, and pick a day you think winter will be officially over. The person or persons’ that arrive at the correct day winter ends just might have a special prize in store.

Valentine’s Day stories & lunches

We received some very sweet Valentine’s Day stories that our seniors shared with us. So please check out our web page to read about these stories.

Speaking of Valentine’s Day, we here at LCCOA delivered over 40 lunches to our seniors. Our wonderful driver Betsy Foy, and her two great helpers, Aaliyah Baker, LCCOA’s assistant to the Post House Ballroom and Kerri Villa-Nantz from Liberty Village in Rochelle — these caring and compassionate ladies were greeted by so many seniors who love our cards and the felt our lunches were amazing. Ed Novak, one of our senior

riders, called to be sure that each and every one of us here at LCCOA were thanked for our cards and lunches. All of us just love our seniors, and we are so grateful that they are a part of our lives.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

New employee

From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch With St Patrick’s day right around the corner, I feel like I should say “Pinch me!” — not because I forgot to wear green but because I’m dreaming!

Life at the Center keeps getting better and better as the community comes together to rebuild the Senior Center. I can’t thank all of you enough for coming forward and sharing your wisdom and talents. What a great community we live in!

Our 1960 phone system is in the process of being upgraded to current standards. In its day, the current is phone system was the top of the line in technology, but was on the brink of being discontinued and was no longer serviceable. This new system will ensure

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

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

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

Golden Echo does not discriminate in admission to programs or 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.

BRIEFS

POST HOUSE BALLROOM

Congratulations, Paul and Brock, on your wonderful wedding at the Post House Ballroom!

Amplified phones and Bluetooth devices are offered free of charge for those who have an already established (standard) land-line or cellular phone.

This free program is governed by Illinois law and offered through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC). Learn more at www.itactty. org.

Interested? You must complete an application, provide proof of Illinois residency, supply current bill or proof of pre-paid service, and be certified as hard of hearing.

LCCOA is a test center to apply and obtain an amplified device. Secure your appointment to test the phones and apply with LCCOA at 815-288-9236, ask for Outreach. No walk-ins will be taken at this time; appointments required.

Call for more details.

New at LCCOA: Chair Yoga for seniors If you’re looking to improve flexibility, mobility, improve core strength and balance, please join us!

Classes will be held at 1 p.m.

Wednesdays. Call 815-288-9236 to reserve your chair.

Donations will be accepted.

Please note: Proof of vaccination will be required in order to enter, and masks must be worn at all time when in the Senior Center

LCCOA phone numbers

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday 100 West Second Street – Dixon, IL, 61021 Main number 815-288-9236 Transportation 815-288-9236 Post House Ballroom 815-288-9236

WCSC phone numbers Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday

1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling Transportation – 815-625-7433 • Information – 815-622-9230

Outreach services & free phones for hearing impaired

ADRC:

Outreach hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Call 815-622-9230

E-mail us at lccoa@comcast.net Visit us at www.leecountycouncilonaging.net or www.posthouseballroom.net or find us on Facebook

Outreach and free phones for hard of hearing/ low vision 815-622-9230 Toll-free 888-622-9230

Email at info@wc-seniorcenter.org Go to wc-seniorcenter.org or follow us on Facebook.

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

Trouble hearing on the phone? Help is available

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Dotty Zimmerman Colleen Clausen Kathi Rowton Don & Sue Schrock Mary McCoy Karen Willett Dawn Hodge Diana Owens Charlene McNinch Sharon Brown Ramona Reglin Annie Grove Donald & Marie Hickman Phyllis Doan Curtis Holland John & Mary Holthaus John Jacobs Irene James Donald Pauser Judith Spangler & Richard Sarver Mary Lou Feczko Richard & Helen Snyder Rosemary Appenheimer Kathleen McLaughlin Laurie Sheridan Farrel & Jo Wright Jim Rodriguez Denny & Joan Floto Margaret Matthew Dennis Ayres Patricia Lips & Mike Devine

Susie Jones Devers Phil Devers Sylvia Williams Jeanette Brandau Rosemary Keough Nancy Grygiel Anne Lahey Doug Hoyle Susan Reed Wayne Smith Roberta & Tom LeMoine Vi Bushman Joan Lemme Hilda & Jack Smith Larry & Charlys Griffith Beverly Helfrich Joseph & Ruth Contreras Bob & Debra Fossett William Sheridan Celesta Gibbs Janice & Glenn Dunseth Garry & Katie Ortgiesen Charles Ballard Marilyn Cibu Joe & Ida Franklin Kristin & Steve Carlson Shirley Rees Lyle & Rosella Warner Carol Ely Kathryn & Don Bonnell Bobby & Kristy Roberson David & Shirley Celletti Keane & Sally Hudson

Kathryn Kessel David & Gloria Lutyens Gayle Topping & Nikki Cunnungham Bob & Jane Chambers Mykola & Maureen Pawchuk Joe & Ida Pettinger Rodney & Georgiana Bollman Sylvia Wade Melvin & Marlene Heckman Carolyn Marshall Joyce Burkhart Virginia & Charles Elder Betty & Richard Cover Margaret Apple Judith Hambley Emily Yurgil Paul & Carolyn Lahman Dean & Sandra Considine Eva Cowley Raymond & Colleen Bonnell Andrew Cox Larry & Edie Carter Betty Stumpenhorst Mary Heck Thomas & Laura Palmer Jane Freres Keith & Charlene Huff Donald & Joan Moore Shirley Long Larry & Louise Reed Sharon Wagner

Karen Didier Doris Walters Kenneth Middleman Douglas & Delores Dysart Bruce & Patricia Kleinmaier Gary & Freida Potter Judith Milano Joyce & Mike McAllister Theresa Sheridan Ruth Pitts Nell Barker Richard & Illa Nicklaus Colleen & Ronald O’Brien Janet Reiley Barbare Cargill Robert Anderson Ronald & Cathy Reglin William & Reva Bierton Dennis & Penny Bennett Lyle & Diana Eisenberg Kathy & Eric Peterson Marilyn Bodmer Barb & Bill Callison Sterling Federal Bank Jane Bruce Kathy Lane Carol & James Kirby Linda Bock Willett, Hofmann & Associates Lela Kraber Mary Jo Ridenhour Mary Ann Rhoades Patricia Black

John & Mary Leffleman Leon & Dolly Kinn Lorraine LeRette Mary Ann Kreps Betty Predmore Florence Rosander Diane Jackson Samuel Loretta Charles & Nancy Dyche Harriet Moore Linda & Garth Dallam Irene & Eileen Ramsdell Mary Hackbarth John & Mary Murphy Shirley Reuter Joan Christofferson Sherrill Berard Peggy Andreas John & Nancy Varga Mike & Julia Hubbell Vicki & Rhonda Cook Eich Janice Russell Barbara Fane Jennell Spoor Elizabeth Huffstutler Bonnie O’Connell Beverly Eykamp Betsy & David Foy Keith & Cindy Gabany Theresa Wolf Anita Contreras Leslie & Mike Wilcox

Harold & LeVaun Risdon Roger & Joan Kelly Edmund & Eileen O’Rourke Evelyn Rapp-Carey & William Carey Darla Foulker June Kremnitzer Terry Swarts Richard Koening Delores Volk Barbara Wood Penny Johns Richard Kramer Sandra Ready M.L. Smallwood Alan Phillips Ralph & Judith Miller Barabara Lawless Patricia Sword Joe Robison Jean Palmer Edward Clayton Judith Schmidt William & Shirley Sivits Duane Paulson Mary Ann Kreps Mildred Hodapp Bob & Nicki Fowkes Billy Allen & Blanche Heilgeist Marybelle Novak

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Watch the Echo for 2022 membership campaign. As a member you will receive discounts on all our activities and trips. All membership fees contribute to the support of Lee County Council on Aging. As a member you can feel confident that all funds helps LCCOA to continue the vital services we provide to all our seniors and continue to bring new and interesting activities to the Center for you to enjoy. Please continue to be a member of LCCOA and spread the word to all your friends and families. Thank you on behalf of LCCOA’s Board of Directors, Executive Director, staff and drivers.

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers and supporters Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and non-monetary donations. A special thank you to all the wonderful supporters of LCCOA’s clothing drive who have donated anonymously.

David and Betsy Foy Dotty Zimmerman Keith and Cindy Gabany Alan Phillips Linda and Garth Dallam John Jacobs Donald Pauser Dennis Ayres Susie Jones and Phil Devers

Jeanette Brandau Rosemary Keough Joan Lemme Garry and Ktie Ortgiesen Joe and Ida Franklin Steve and Kristin Crlson Rodney and Georgiana Bollman Douuglas and Delores Dysart Gary and Freida Potter

Don Schrock Sue Schrock Dorothy Szewczyk Paula Eubanks First Prebyterian Church Nancy Grygiel Jeff Parker Kristine Schuler

Lee County Council on Aging Board Executive Committee and Officers Bonnie O’Connell, Chair

LaDonna Groshans, Vice Chair

Kristin Carlson, Secretary

Cindy Gabany Michael T. Glenn

Jeff Haub Roberta Lemoine

Julia O’Farrell Sami Rodriguez

Nancy Gates, Lori Kilgore LCCOA Line Dancers Carol Kutz Janet Butler Sami Rodriguez – Petersen Health Care Scott Oesterlin

Safe Life Home Health Care Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger Lee, And Considine, LLC NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Terry Christian Lee County Jesse Ware

Eileen Piper and Larry piper Teen Turf Rusty Schrader Lee County United Way Amanda Wike Lifescape Ben Galantine - Johnson CPA LOTS

Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers Joe Bright – President Michelle Miller – Vice President Karla Burn – Treasurer Cindy Wadsworth – Secretary John Booker Al Campbell

Emily Taylor

Janice Bell Sasha Logan

DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS

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DO YOU MISS RONALD REAGAN?

Jean Tschosik Dodie Long Ron and Mary Chruch Karen Cowley Ron and Chris Erickson Robert Dickson Carroll and Kathie Whitlock Frank and Shirley Sanders Marv Arians Nancy Surdez Dale Smith Bob and Jan Whitlock Doris Williamson Myrna Nelson Marilyn Kollie Tim and Linda Vos

Tom and Jane Brackemeyer Mark Jacobs Dave and Shirley Celletti Bonny Brown Gary Miller Charlene Smith Mary Hayenga John and Evelyn Wessels Harold Muntean Bob Hewes Alva Wise JoAnn Canady David Benson Fred and Kay Turk Linda Wilburn Marilyn Gleim

Dionicio Olalde Gene and Cathleen Jacoby Joan Johnson Al and Jan Campbell Anita Sstickel Sharon Helms Marilyn Bernard Judy Kohl Don and Pat Driessens Roy and Shirley Sharp Mary Vos Jean Tichler Sharon Prichard Patricia Spratt Ron and Bev Lynch

If you would like to join the Whiteside County Senior Center for 2022, the cost is $25 per person per calendar year or $35 for two people residing in same household. The membership form is on page 5 in this edition of the Golden Echo. You can mail your check to WCSC, 1207

Thank you to WCSC volunteers and supporters Thank you to all our volunteers who donate their time, energy, and services and those who gave monetary donations, including anonymously. A special thanks to all who partner AARP Tax Volunteers Anderson Nature Center-Fulton In Memory of Bud Jordan John Booker Joe Bright Karla Burn Al Campbell Church Women’s United Donna Itken Erie Public Library

Trisha Logan Glenda MacLennan Golden Meals Joan Johnson Joe Fornero Margaret Owano Michelle Miller McCormicks Nursery NIAAA Odell Public Library, Morrison

Riverbend Food Bank Rusty Schrader Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG Emily Taylor TRIAD of Sterling United Way of Sterling Cindy Wadsworth Whiteside County

HELP PASS ON THE REAGAN LEGACY AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION

VOLUNTEER AT THE REAGAN BOYHOOD HOME!

WCSC

Seniors invited to watch Alzheimer’s program “Advancing the Science: The Latest in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research” — a live, interactive program brought to you by the Alzheimer’s Association — will be broadcast via Zoom on Thursday, March 31, at noon.

To watch at home, visit bit.ly/ alzspecialprograms to register to watch via Zoom, or watch live at the Whiteside County Senior Center!

Alzheimer’s is a global health problem with more than 6 million people living with the disease in the US alone.

Tremendous gains have been made in the understanding of the science and basic biology underlying Alzheimer’s and other dementias. These advances

are leading to great strides in strategies for prevention, detection, diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions.

The Alzheimer’s Association is a global leader in research, mobilizing the field to advance the vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

Join us to learn more about …

• Landscape of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Science • Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s and all other dementia • Highlights in Early Detection and Diagnosis • Latest Advances in Clinical Trials, Treatments and Lifestyle Intervention.

CONTACT KYLE AT REAGANBOYHOODHOME@YAF.ORG OR CALL US AT 815.288.5176 FOR MORE INFORMATION. SM-ST1949982

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2022

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

Whiteside County Senior Center is buzzing with excitement!

Fun and games ... LEFT: Folks decided to come on down to WCSC and be contestants in a game of The Price is Right. RIGHT: A good time was in the cards for euchre players.

Serving coffee to those who served Veterans Coffee has resumed and we are happy to be getting reacquainted with our vets!

Players cue up to play pool The pool players are happy to be back! Pool tables are open Tuesday and Thursday 1-4 p..m. and Wednesday 9 a.m.-noon.

Embrace personal freedom and explore the endless opportunities to connect with others, join in activities, and live your life to the fullest. t.

Our team of professional and nd compassionate caregivers are re he e each ch day da day to ma in our care enjoy an extraordinary inary living experience inar nce in an e nc environment.

tional onal al

Call Andrea at (815) 285-2000 today to schedule a tour!

(815) 285-2000 | www.LibertyCourtSeniorLiving.com

Tax time at WCSC AARP Tax Volunteers have returned. All of the appointment slots filled up quickly, but you may reach out to AARP at 779- 245-2969 to see whether there are any appointments available at another location.

124 Liberty Court Dixon, IL 61021

We outthe theRed RedCarpet CarpetforforYou! You! We are are Rolling Rolling out SM-ST1954173

OUTREACH

On January 14, the White House announced a new initiative to help ensure Americans have COVID-19 tests on hand in case they are needed. The website to order at-home testing kits — at no cost — is now live and accepting orders. People who do not have Internet access or who need additional assistance with ordering can call 1-800-2320233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) to place their orders, or they can reach out to our Outreach Department at 815-6229230 at WCSC. The Eldercare Locator and the Disability Information and Assistance Line (DIAL) also can assist older adults and people with disabilities with placing orders if they need additional help, connect people to accessible instructions, and help with administering the tests. Both phone lines are staffed Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Older adults can call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 Monday-Friday or visit the website to chat live or browse resources.

• People with disabilities can contact DIAL by calling 888-677-1199 or by emailing DIAL@usaginganddisability.org. The DIAL information specialists are trained to work with people of various communications abilities, including spending as much time as needed to understand callers. Deaf and hard-of-hearing people can reach DIAL using the 711/Video Relay Service (VRS). To use this free service, simply dial 711 to be connected via text with a communications assistant. (For people who do not communicate through speech, sign language or VRS, email is the best option to communicate with DIAL.) Two important notes: • There are enough kits to fill orders for every residential address in the country.

• Orders began shipping at the end of January, both for people who placed their orders via the online form in the days when only the online form was available and those who began ordering when the phone lines became available.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMFORTABLE CHAIR, BUT NEED A POWER LIFT ONE? Check out our selection of power lift recliners & choose the one that is right for you.

of LCCOA’s family

Join me in welcoming our newest member to the Lee County Council on Aging family, Kathy Schmidt. Kathy comes to us with a recent four-year background as a volunteer counselor with the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP). During most of that time she was volunteering with the Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging. We are ecstatic to have her here with us, bringing a wealth of Medicare knowledge already with her and ready to dive in with both feet forward and learn the rest of what we can offer to all of you.

As most of you know, our SHIP certificaKathy Schmidt tions allow us to provide you that Medicare education, Part D and Medicare Advantage Plan comparisons and enrollments, scam prevention, appeals and more. Having someone who is already knowledgeable in this field helps us to help all of you. It is one of the most important parts of our Outreach Department, and our role as your Elder Benefits Specialist.

Kathy will be here on Mondays and Fridays to help in all areas of Outreach, but with a special focus on anything to do with Medicare. Please help us to make her feel welcome as she begins her journey with us here at LCCOA.

Today’s moments become tomorrow’s memories.

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2600 N. Locust, Sterling

815.626.4041

1309 N. Galena Ave., Dixon

815.285.5857 SM-ST1955327

104 East 3rd Street • Rock Falls, IL (815) 677-4398

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

Ordering at-home COVID Welcome to the tests? Outreach can help newest member

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Weekly activities at LCCOA

Weekly activities at WCSC

LCCOA & LCCOA Transportation follows COVID19 protocols very closely. The following listings are signs of life returning to the Dixon Seniors Center! Hopefully, this space will increase each month, with increased activities. Just because you don’t see a certain activity, does NOT mean it’s never coming back. Check this space each month, so YOU can get busy, too!! The LCCOA Outreach Office is open.

Call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

PLEASE NOTE: EVERYONE WHO ENTERS THE BUILDING MUST WEAR A MASK.

If there are other groups or activities that would like to resume here at the center, please reach out to Beth at 815-622-9230, and we will be happy to coordinate that activity based on availability.

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

GOLDEN ECHO

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Mondays

Thursdays

11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle for beginners

10-11 a.m. — Yoga 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Hand and Foot Cards 1-4 -p.m. — Pool playing 1-4 p.m. — Jam sessions

Tuesdays Mondays

1 p.m. — Rummikub

Tuesdays

Call 815-288-9236 to reserve your chair.

Thursdays

9 a.m. — Line dancing. Line dancers learn new steps and practice their routines here at LCCOA.

1 p.m. — Crafters. All types of crafters are welcome to gather at LCCOA.

Wednesdays

12:30 p.m. — NEW! Euchre games 1 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes

1 p.m. — NEW! Chair yoga for seniors.

SM-ST1954010

Fridays

10 a.m. — Bible study 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30 p.m. — Euchre 1-4 p.m. — Pool playing

Wednesdays 9 a.m.-noon — Canasta 9a .m.-noon — Pool 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30 p.m.-4 p.m. — Pinochle

Fridays 10-11:45 a.m. — Tech Time 12:30-2:15 p.m. — Tech Time 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle 12:30-4 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes

Upcoming Trips

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The Nashville Show Trip

March 30 Cost: $95 for members, $120 for non-members. Price includes bus transportation, lunch, matinee and dessert It’s sweet. It’s savory. It’s five strangers putting their hearts, reputations, and baking skills on the line to become the crème de la crème of bakers at the county fair. They’ll all get their just desserts at the Jefferson County Bake-Off! Rated PG. Bus will leave Sterling Walmart at 10:30 a.m. Doors open at 11:45 a.m. and the show is at 1:30 p.m. Final payment and deadline to register is March 1st. Sign up at WCSC.

August 1-6, 2022 Cost: $697 for members, $722 for non-members; price per person, based on double occupancy See a great show at The Grand Ole Opry! Take photos with your favorite stars at Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. Tour a restored Victorian plantation museum. There will be free time to check out the famous downtown streets of Nashville and so much more! Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and dinner are included. For more information, go to Grouptrips. com/LEECOUNTYCOUNCILONAGING/1862233 or call 815-288-9236. Ask for Marisa for questions or to reserve your space.

A Little Bit Country/A Little Bit Rock and Roll at Starved Rock: Show and lunch buffet

Explore Ireland!

Wednesday, April 6 Cost: $85 for members, $115 for non-members. Price Includes bus transportation, lunch buffet, dessert and show Bus will leave Sterling Walmart at 9:30 a.m. Helen Russell & Company bring live music that features keyboard, bass, banjo and drums, with a great variety of country, bluegrass, rockabilly, gospel and classic rock from the ’50s to the ’70s — plus a tremendous veterans tribute! Fun audience participation and comedy along with impersonations of Reba, Dolly, Tammy Wynette, Waylon and many more! Deadline to sign up and final payment is due March 30.Sign up at the WCSC.

October 5-12, 2022 Cost: $3,398 per person, based on double occupancy, for bookings made prior to March 30 Journey to see the Emerald Isle! Take in the sights of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone, and feel the sweeping winds upon the Cliffs of Moher. These are just a few of the things you will have the opportunity to experience on this trip! Please contact April at Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 or email her at lccoabookkeeper@comcast. net, to have a packet mailed or emailed to you. You can even register yourself online at https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1083188. A deposit of $999 per person is due upon reservation. This amount includes cancellation waiver and insurance.

Brewers vs. Cubs Baseball: Miller Park Baseball, American Family Field, Milwaukee, Wisc.

Travel with Glenda!

Sunday, May 1 — 1:05 p.m. game Cost: $115 for members, $140 for non-members. Price includes motorcoach, game ticket and driver tip Join us on a trip to Milwaukee Field. A highly requested trip! Seats are Field Infield Box seats, Section 110 (not specifically handicapped accessible). Food and beverage items are not included in the cost. Departure time TBD. Deadline to sign up is March 30. We cannot add to our ticket number after this date. Sign up at WCSC.

Let’s go to Mackinac Island!

May 30-June 3, 2022 Cost: $545 for members, $570 for non-members; price per person, based on double occupancy Enjoy touring Mackinac Island by horse and carriage, cruising the Soo Locks in Sault Sainte Marie, visiting and playing at the Kewadin Sault Casino, visiting the Colonial Michilimackinac Village (a 1700’s-era village) and so much more! Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and dinner are included. For more information, go to Grouptrips.com/LEECOUNTYCOUNCILONAGING/1851899 or call 815-288-9236. Ask for Marisa for questions or to reserve your space

Cost: $3,200 per person, based on double occupancy Oct. 20 — Fly to Rome and spend 2 nights, with a tour on the second day.

Oct. 22 — Board the Celebrity Constellation for 15 nights. We’ll visit Toulon, France; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Cartagena, Spain; Ponta Delgada, Portugal; Nassau, Bahamas; and end in Tampa, Florida. We will have 9 sea days. Please contact Glenda if interested.

Stay tuned for upcoming WCSC trips We will post them as soon as all details are confirmed ...

Branson Missouri Show Trip Wrigley Field Cubs Trip We would love for you to join the WCSC in getting back to traveling!

LCCOA’s Upcoming Trips for 2022 Seats are filling up fast! A $75 deposit reserves your seat. The price of the trip includes your transportation, hotel, meals (excluding lunch), and any admission fees.

Only additional funds needed will be for your extras.

Jones Funeral Homes

SUPPORT

Feeling down? Free help line available Feeling stressed, lonely, anxious? Need someone to talk to?

People ages 12 and up can call the Illinois Warm Line at 866359-7953 for emotional support.

This service is available Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and is free for all callers.

Ask Us About Our Guaranteed Prearrangement Contracts

DIXON

204 S. Ottawa Ave • 288-2241

AMBOY

303 E Main St. • 857-2611

www.thejonesfh.com

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

Just Desserts — A Musical Bake-Off at Circa 21

March Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

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Lifescape serves seniors in Winnebago, Boone, Lee and Ogle counties. Go to lifescapeservices.org for more information.

March 1-4 TUESDAY: Sausage gravy, with whole grain biscuit hash brown potato 2 sausage patties, orange juice,.

WEDNESDAY: Polish sausage sauerkraut potato wedges baked beans, chilled applesauce whole grain hot dog bun. THURSDAY: Beefaroni, green beans cauliflower, whole grain garlic bread , apricots, B) Turkey/ vegetable. FRIDAY: Black bean burger whole grain bun butternut squash potato wedges, mandarin oranges.

March 7-11 MONDAY: Pepper steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, whole grain wheat bread, diced peaches. TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, augratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, whole grain dinner roll, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, California blend veggies, whole grain wheat bread, apricots. THURSDAY: Sweet and sour meatballs, fluffy rice, blended veggies, whole grain din-

ner roll, diced pears. FRIDAY: A) Tuna noodle casserole, broccoli/carrots, pineapple tidbits, whole grain dinner roll B) Chicken salad/tomato.

March 14-18

MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed peas, whole grain dinner roll, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY: Meatloaf, cheesy potatoes Brussels sprouts, whole grain wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY: Baked pork chop mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, cherry crisp. THURSDAY: Italian sausage, with peppers on whole grain bun, red potato wedges, Italian blend veggies, apricots. FRIDAY: A) Crispy fish sandwich, whole grain wheat bun/tartar mac & cheese, peas, diced peaches, B) Turkey/minestrone.

March 21-25

MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, mandarin

oranges. TUESDAY: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry veggies, whole grain dinner roll, apricots.

WEDNESDAY: Meatball sub on whole grain roll, peas & carrots, season potato wedges, diced peaches. THURSDAY: A) Turkey burger, whole grain wheat bun, sweet potato fries broccoli, apple crisp, B) Tuna salad/chicken rice. FRIDAY: Egg muffin sandwich on a whole grain English muffin, hash rounds, spiced peaches.

March 28-31 MONDAY: BBQ riblet, whole grain wheat bun, cheesy potatoes, country-mixed vegetables, diced pears.

TUESDAY: Creamy chicken pasta, carrots, steamed peas, whole grain wheat bread, chilled pineapple.

WEDNESDAY: Cheeseburger on whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, baked beans, ambrosia fruit salad, THURSDAY: A) Lemon pepper chicken, wild rice, broccoli, whole grain dinner roll, applesauce 8-ounce low-fat milk served with all lunch.

March Golden Meals Please note: Meals will be served at Whiteside County Senior Center Monday through Thursday. Fridays are home delivery.

For more information about home-delivered meals, call 626-4442.

March 1-4 TUESDAY: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, carrots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Beef and noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Baked cod lemon butter, American fries, baked bean, wheat bread.

FRIDAY: Frozen meal

March 7-11 MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, carrots, fruit, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken noodle casserole (vegetables in casserole), fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes & ham

peas, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, applesauce. FRIDAY: Frozen meal.

March 14-18 MONDAY: Cowboy hash, mashed potato, applesauce, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo/ pasta, spinach, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Ham loaf, sweet potatoes, mixed vegetables. wheat bread. THURSDAY: Corned beef & cabbage, parslied potatoes, carrots, rolls. FRIDAY: Frozen meal.

March 21-25 MONDAY: Swedish meatballs, buttered noodles, mixed

vegetables, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, cream corn, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Tater tot casserole, (veg in casserole), fruit, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Frozen meal

March 28-31 MONDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, fruit, bun. TUESDAY: Baked chicken, mashed & gravy, carrots, wheat.

WEDNESDAY: Beef & noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Baked cod lemon butter, American fries, baked bean, wheat bread. FRIDAY: St. Patrick’s party

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Fares: (within county)

Lee County Council on Aging Senior Transportation — 815-288-9236 Hours: 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday

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: Donation suggested (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program) 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

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

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: $1 one way (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program) Out-of-town trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 35 cents per mile Call LOTS 888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

Special Events at WCSC Thursdays — 1-4 p.m.

Come and jam with us in the dining room, where we have a piano and an electric piano available to you.

Bring your friends and bring your instruments and let’s start a beat! We welcome all genres of music!

Want to have fun by learning to play Pinochle? Our Pinochle players want to teach you!

Mondays — 12:30 p.m.

Have you been wanting to learn the art of the Pinochle card game? Come check it out!

Foot Clinic March 2 Fancy Feet is accepting new clients. Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 to set up an appointment.

Yoga Thursdays from 10 a.m.

Yoga is back as requested! Participants must provide their own yoga mat and strap. Yoga session is adjusted for all levels of yoga ability. If you have never done yoga and would like to join us, a simple membership of $25 is required. Yoga will be upstairs. Enjoy the health benefits of yoga!

The Price is Right Wednesday, March 9 at 10 a.m.

Heritage Woods will host our price guessing game — you could be a winner! Join us!

Veterans Coffee March 10 from 9-10 a.m.

Veterans coffee is back to the Whiteside County Senior Center the second Thursday of every month. It’s sponsored by Beacon of Hope Hospice, which will provided the coffee and snacks. Charisse Jesiolowski, social worker for Beacon of Hope, will lead the coffee

time. She will bring Carl, social worker at the VA Clinic.

They’re looking forward to connecting and reconnecting with the veterans in Whiteside and surrounding areas. Please join us!

SCUG March 12 — 1 p.m.

Sauk Computer User Group will meet for a question-and-answer time. There will be a short business meeting followed with a presentation on a relevant computer topic at 2 p.m. Everyone with an interest in computers/technology is invited. Refreshments will be available.

Counselor.

Alzheimer’s Watch Party March 31 at noon Join us for a live, interactive program on the big screen, right here, in-person here at the Senior Center.

You can also watch via Zoom (see the article on pager XX for details.) The Alzheimers Association is advancing the science, the latest in Alzheimer’s and dementia research.

Breakfast Club

March 16 at noon Come and join a group that’s all about senior citizen safety. This group is composed of public safety, community agencies and senior citizens. Everyone welcome. Please reach out to Beth at bsterk@wc-seniorcenter.org if you would like to participate. Meeting location TBD.

Friday, March 25 at 9 a.m.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who wants to eat alone? This club will meet on the last Friday of every month at a local restaurant to enjoy each other’s company and develop friendships. Come join Yvonne as she leads the way to sample various local restaurants for a good old-fashioned breakfast of your choice. Each person will be responsible for their own meal and tip. Call 815-622-9230 to get your name on the list and learn where to meet each month.

Tri-County Presentation

Technology Time

March 17 at 1 p.m .

If you are a senior in need of a little extra help financially the March 17 presentation is a must see for you.

We will be conducting a hybrid presentation, in combination with Tri-County Opportunities Council, of all the assistance programs available in Whiteside County.

You may come in person or log on from the comfort of your home or office to watch (see our Facebook page for login information).

Fridays from 10-11:45 a.m. & 12:30-2:15 p.m.

Whiteside Area Career Center is providing IT students to solve your technology dilemmas, whether it’s a simple question about your phone or tablet, or more difficult dilemmas.

TRIAD meeting

New to Medicare Class March 24 at noon This class is designed for anyone who is new to Medicare. It helps answer questions you might have about original Medicare-Part A and B, and also basic information about Medicare Advantage plans and supplemental policies. No pre-registration is required. This class will be taught by Wendy Eckel, certified SHIP

Blood Pressure Whiteside Area Career Center Nursing students will take blood pressure readings. This will not only benefit you but also help the students refine their bedside manner. Dates TBD.

Bible Study Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

Pastor Al Campbell will lead a morning bible study every Tuesday morning. The group will conduct a 6-week Lenten study starting March 3. Study guides will be provided at no cost.

Special Events at LCCOA Mondays 1 p.m. — Rummikub at LCCOA

Tuesdays 9 a.m. — Line dancing. Line dancers learn new steps and practice their routines here at LCCOA.

Wednesdays 1 p.m. — NEW! Chair yoga for seniors.

Call 815-288-9236 to reserve your chair.

Thursdays 1 p.m. — Crafters. All types of crafters are welcome to

gather and share at LCCOA.

Fridays 12:30 p.m. — NEW! Euchre players are here at LCCOA 1 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes here at LCCOA

Bingo is here at LCCOA — twice in March!

The musicians have been wintering in Florida, but they indicated they will return for the popular event on the last Friday in March. So, keep this date open on your calendars. Please call to confirm!

Covid vaccine info for seniors

Friday, March 4 & 18 at 9:30 a.m.

The games are free, the prizes are free, and the fun is free!

Call the Lee County Health Dept. at 815-284-3371 to check for dates and times of clinics, or to get your Covid-19 vaccinations or boosters.

Open mic night

2022 membership drive is underway!

Tentatively scheduled for 7 p.m. March 25

Call 815-288-9236 for more info.

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Feb 23, 2022

Jam Sessions

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Whiteside County Senior Center 2022 Membership Form (Jan. 1-Dec. 31)

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(PLEASE PRINT. You can mail your check to WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. )

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First/Middle/Last Name________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________City, State___________________________________ Zip code____________________ Home phone ______________________________________Cell phone____________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________ Date of Birth_________________________________________Gender_________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPE Single $25

Couple: $35 (two people residing in same household)

Spouse’s Name_______________________________________________ Cell phone__________________________________ Date of birth___________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________ Please make checks payable to: Whiteside County Senior Center EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ SPOUSE’S EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ Thank you for being part of our Senior Center — The place where you enter as a friend and leave as family!

LCCOA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION | 2022 (JAN. 1-DEC. 31) PLEASE PRINT and return to: Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon IL 61021

DATE_____________________________________________ NAME______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SPOUSE (or second individual)_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE #____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ BIRTH DATE___________________________________ SPOUSE (or second individual) BIRTH DATE_________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP COSTS — CHECK ONE $20 – Individual

$35 – Two individuals in the same household

$50 to $199 – Partner

$200 to $499 – Sponsor

$500 or more – Benefactor

We cannot THANK YOU enough for your dedication and support to the Lee County Council on Aging. We look forward to serving you for years to come!