SVM_Golden Echo_033121

The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Transportation, Lee-Ogle Transportation System, WCSC and WCPT will be closed on Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday. We will re-open on Monday, April 5.

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 14 • APRIL 2021 • EDITION 3

Susan Lawler

Samantha Harazin

Aaliyah Baker

Marisa Perales

April Reed

9 a.m.-noon Connie Edson

Terry Christian

Mike Dingus

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

Outreach........................................................3 Weekly, Monthly Activities..........................8

Upcoming Trips.............................................9 Meal Sites..................................................... 10 Upcoming Special Events........................... 11

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

until May 10; talk it up to your friends, family and neighbors. Aaliyah will even come out to your car and grab those bags. What would we do without Aaliyah, she truly is LCCOA hidden treasure.

Mackinac Island

By Susan Lawler

Happy Easter Happy Easter to all our senior friends from LCCOA’s staff, drivers, Board of Director’s and myself.

To celebrate Easter we will have an Easter Egg hunt outside of our building on Second Street from 1-2 p.m.

April 1. There will be 3 eggs with special prizes in them. One egg will have two weeks of free lunches every day; the second egg will have one week of free lunches every day. For an added touch the lunches will be delivered to your homes by our amazing Senior Transportation drivers. The final and third Egg will have 5 free rides. This is no April fool’s joke!! This for real, so come on out and join the outdoor fun; (please wear your mask). We here at LCCOA promise you an afternoon of fun and laughter.

Easter Parade “In your Easter bonnet with all the

frills upon it” ...

Since Easter is early this year; we here at LCCOA decided to have an Easter Parade the day after Easter.

On Easter Monday at 1:30-2 p.m.; we will gather on Second Street and walk around to the front of the building; so everyone on Galena Avenue can see all the wonderful bonnets/ hats. There will be a prize for the best Bonnet/hat. So all you crafters, put your on thinking caps ( no pun intended), and come up with some interesting Bonnets.

Fun Saver’s Clothing Drive I guess the snow stop our supporters from bringing their gently used clothing, belts, purses, bedding and shoes. We just didn’t meet our goal this time. The weather is changing, so go through those closets, attics and basements, and come on down with all your treasures to LCCOA. We are waiting for you. The drive will run

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk As I am writing this, it is the oneyear anniversary since the WHO declared a global pandemic! What were you doing a year ago March 11, 2021? What was the last photo you took on your phone? According to my camera roll, we were having St. Patrick’s Day Bingo at the senior center.

Those were fun times!

Things have certainly changed for everyone during this past year. Somehow, we have powered through and I think everyone is looking for things

to return to “normal” – whatever that new normal might look like. I think with all the all the adaptations everyone has navigated throughout the year, I am hoping the worst of it is over, and with vaccinations becoming more available and spring being in the air, everyone can resume some kind of regular, sunshine-filled activities?

With the Easter season upon us, I reflect on the realization that life is a rhythm of death and resurrection.

LCCOA is so, so sorry Diamond Tours has postponed the Mackinac Island trip due to their corporate decision that all seniors traveling on their buses must have the second Covid-19 vaccine shot. LCCOA has decided to cancel the trip until Diamond Tours finalizes their agenda. We feel it is unfair to our seniors to keep getting their hopes up just to turn around and dash them. As soon as we have a firm commitment from Diamond tours we will notify all our clients. LCCOA will be returning your checks/money.

Thank you for always supporting LCCOA. We are heartbroken: we too were looking forward to this adventure.

Back in My Day Our first edition of our senior book was so successful; therefore we are publishing a second edition. Please send in your recipes, stores, poems or just a list of sayings your parents and grandparents use to say. Our goal

I understand people are anxious for the center to re-open and hold onto “just like it was” – we know it must evolve and change in order for it to have life! Currently, our county is 11% fully vaccinated, so we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Please be patient! If you are needing assistance getting added to vaccine waitlists in Whiteside County, we can help you with that!

Our staff has done an AMAZING job servicing clients remotely!

According to our numbers, we have provided services to many, many people during the pandemic. In February alone, we had over 560 contacts made for services/information and assistance. I want to personally thank our staff for the wonderful job they have done and continue to do, with all the challenges of working from home –

here at LCCOA is to have at least four editions which we can publish into a hard cover book. So please help to make our second edition a success.

You may e-mail your writings to lccoa@comcast.net, you may mail it to us at: 100 W. Second St., Dixon , IL. 61021, or call 815-288-9236.

Thank You!!

The First United Methodist Church heard we were struggling to pay off our furnace; the wonderful parishioners of this parish held a collection; not only were we able to pay off our furnace we were able to pay for some long overdue repairs. I lay in bed at night thinking how are we going to survive in the face of Covid-19, and then this great community always steps up to the plate. I know God is watching over us here at LCCOA, with the help of amazing people from the First United Methodist Church.

Thank you for the bottom of our hearts here at LCCOA. Your generous contribution and your continuing support of our agency will make the difference in so many senior lives.

May God watch over all of you.

Until next time, Lee County Council on Aging: a place where you belong, a place to call home.

– Susan

what a great team! We are available at extension 194 for Outreach, 101 for Reception.

If you would like to support the Senior Center and renew your membership for 2021, you are welcome to do that, although we do not know yet if any new trips will be offered; it will be based on the CDC positivity cases and metrics within Whiteside County.

The membership cost remains the same: $25 for an individual or $35 for two people who reside in the same household.

Get outdoors and enjoy the warmer days ahead! I will keep you updated on any re-openings plans.

Wishing all of you a joyful Easter — may you be filled with gratitude for all the goodness that has surrounded us this past year! Enjoy the sunshine in the days ahead!

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.

OUTREACH DEPARTMENT

Have you considered these programs and services?

Assistance offered through WCSC and LCCOA Outreach Spring is a great time for new beginnings!

Because of this, we would like to take this opportunity to reintroduce some of the programs and services that we offer through our departments.

Income and asset guidelines can sometimes increase from year-to-year. If you have had a recent change in your income or assets (retirement, loss of income, dissolved IRA, etc), or if your age, income, and/or assets can now qualify you for certain programs, then now is a good time to reassess and become familiar with these various benefits offered.

For questions on these programs, or for help to file, please contact either of our departments: WCSC at 815-622-9230 Ext. 194 or LCCOA at 815-2889236.

Benefit Access Program This program allows for a reduction in the cost of your license plate sticker, and also provides a ride-free transit card for fixed-route transportation systems. Applications must be filed every 2

years. To qualify, an applicant must be 65 years of age, or older. If under 65 years of age, one must be considered disabled by Social Security, have a Class 2 disability card, be deemed totally disabled with a physician’s statement, or deemed 100% disabled through the VA. The income qualification goes by 2020 yearly income, after May 17, 2021, and guidelines, as determined by the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA), are as follows: 1-person household: $33,562 2-person household: $44,533 3-person household: $55,500

Social Security extra help — Low-income subsidy This program through Social Security helps to subsidize the cost of Part-D premiums, co-pays, and deductibles.To qualify for some level of subsidy your gross monthly income and assets, as determined by the Social Security Administration, are as follows: 1-person household: $1,630 income/$14,790 assets 2-person household: $2,198 income/$29,520 assets The above amounts include an automatic $20 monthly disregard. Even if you are over these guidelines, you may still qualify, as certain exclusions apply toward both assets and income.You may also auto- qualify for this program if you have

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

Medicare Savings Program (MSP) — 3 tiers: QMB, SLMB, QI) This program is offered for those with Medicare that meet income and asset qualifications, and pays for the monthly Part-B premium of $148.50, at the minimum. For some that qualify for the greatest level of assistance, this program will pay for the Part-B premium along with Part A and Part B coinsurance and deductibles.

To qualify, the gross monthly income and assets, as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), are as follows: 1-person household: $1,474 income/$7,970 assets 2-person household: $1,985 income/ $11,960 assets The above amounts include an automatic $25 monthly disregard that Illinois allows.

Our Outreach Departments are happy to assist with these applications, but ultimate qualification is determined by each of the governing agencies.

Both WCSC and LCCOA are non-profit agencies with certified Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) staff, providing unbiased assistance to the aging and disabled populations. For further questions or guidance on these programs, please give our Outreach Departments a call, WCSC at 815622-9230 Ext. 194, or LCCOA at 815-288-9236.

Happy Spring from all of us!

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 hours:

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

Monday Walk-ins from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

any form of Medicaid.

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

Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Toll-free 888-622-9230

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

The Emporium Thrift Store 115 E. Third St., Sterling • 815-535-0368

elebrating your milestones & memories

Weddings Engagements Birthdays Births Class reunions Baptisms

Confirmations Honor rolls Retirements Trophies Special sporting recognition

IN TUESDAY’S TELEGRAPH AND DAILY GAZETTE

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Need help? Outreach is here for you

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

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4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Linda Munroe Eva Cowley Nina Madauss Ginny Novak Bob Sawyer

Sandy Sawyer Robert Schultz Betty Schultz Mary Drew Eleanor Zimmerlein

Mary Belle Novak Nell Barker Terry Sippel Carol Shippert Gertrud Feurstein

Jane Chambers Debra Sutton Shirley Kitzmiller Joyce Gibson Brenda Jensen

Celesta Gibbs Patrick Kavanaugh Kirsten Kavanaugh John King Judy King Bob Chambers

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Watch the Echo for 2021’s 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. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations.

Ben Galantine NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Paula Eubanks

Sauk Valley Media Lee County United Way Amanda Wike EFSP Johnson CPA

Todd Beck Joe Robinson Debra Sutton Rock River Garden Club Rusty Schrader

First United Methodist Church Parishioners PastorTim Mitchell Pastor Young Sun Lee Catherine Luther-Grossman

Wal-Mart of Dixon A special thank you to all the wonderful supporters of LCCOA’s clothing drive who have donated anonymously.

Would you like to become a member of LCCOA? Turn to page 5 for more information and a membership form.

Thank you to WCSC volunteers

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

AARP Tax Volunteers Anderson Nature Center—Fulton John Booker Joe Bright Karla Burn Al Campbell

Erie Public Library Glenda MacLennan Joe Fornero Kroger Michelle Miller NIAAA

Odell Public Library, Morrison Terry & Karen O’Malley Riverbend Food Bank Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG Wilma Smith Emily Taylor

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Thank you to those individuals who have paid their Memberships for 2021: Carol & David Hadley Judy & Aaron Johnson

Judith Kohl Pat VanCoillie Evelyn & John Wessels

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

LaDonna Groshans, Vice Chair

Kristin Carlson, Secretary

Cindy Gabany Roberta Lemoine

Nina Mardauss

Cheryl Smith Terry Stephenitch

Dona Tegeler United Way of Sterling Cindy Wadsworth Connie Waller Janice Bell Diana De Groot

Bev Cassens Kathy Siperly Mary Hermes Sue Hahn Royola Smith Maxine Stern

If you would like to join the Whiteside County Senior Center for 2021, the cost is $25 per person per calendar year or $35 for two people residing in same household. You can mail your check to WCSC- 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. Although we don’t know what 2021 will look like at the center, we appreciate your support and we appreciate YOU!

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

LCCOA

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Wow! What a great beginning to our membership drive. New members, renewing members, and even past members returning. We cannot thank you enough for supporting the center! Your membership every year, will provide you access to discounted upcoming packaged trips, bus trips, special mailings and more.

Inspired yet? Fill out the form below, drop it off or mail it in with your check.

Need more information on becoming a member? Give us a jingle at 815-288-9236; ask for Marisa.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2021 (JAN. 1 – DEC. 31) • PLEASE PRINT AND RETURN TO: Lee County Council on Aging, 100 West 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 o $20 – Individual o $50 to $199 – Partner

o $35 – Two individuals in the same household o $200 to $499 – Sponsor

o $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 serve you for years to come.

Jones Funeral Homes

THE EMPORIUM THRIFT CENTER

A special thank you ...

The Emporium Thrift Center served the senior center for many years and now it is time for the Emporium to assist others in our community.

The YWCA of the Sauk Valley has taken over the Emporium. They have a great vision! Be sure to follow them on Facebook for progress and updates.

We would like to give a huge heartfelt THANK YOU to Janice Bell and all our volunteers for the countless hours of volunteering at our beloved thrift store! We appreciate each of you for all you have done! You helped the senior center thrive for so many years and for that we are eternally grateful!

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LOCAL NEWS

AMBOY

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

The time is now to join LCCOA

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

Staying safe at WCPT WCPT employees had the opportunity to be recipients of the Phase 1B Essential Workers group of COVID-19 vaccinations back in February. We would like to thank the staff who received their vaccinations for doing their part to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This was not only a decision made to protect themselves, but also a decision to protect the members of our community who utilize our public transportation system every day. The health and safety of everyone has always been our first priority here at WCPT and we will continue to take all precautionary measures necessary to continue providing you with the safe and reliable transportation. We want to help you get to your vaccination appointments too! Give us a call and let us know that you are needing transportation to your vaccination appointment. We would like to track to see how many members of our community in Whiteside County we can help with getting vaccinated. Just remember to let your dispatcher know that you are going to get vaccinated!

A huge thank you to Kroger for the donation of hand sanitizer to WCSC and WCPT! Thank you for keeping us safe! Pictured are Beth Sterk (left), WCSC Assistant Director, and Amy Dorathy, WCPT Director.

LCCOA

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We miss you!

Enjoy the all the comforts of home at Heritage Woods this Spring!

Accepting

New

Residents!

Eddie Granberry and Willy Gibson, two of our seniors who rode our buses every day and participated in activities at the senior Center. We miss you guys!

2205 Oak Grove Ave, Sterling (3 blocks N. of W. LeFevre) 815-625-7045 | www.hw-sterling-slf.com Managed by Gardant Management Solutions

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Thank you First United Methodist Church for your generous donation.

Your kindness and caring for the seniors of our community is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.

Pictured: Pastor Tim Mitchell and Pastor Young Sun Lee is handing Executive Director Susan Lawler a check for $2,487.50. Also pictured is Outreach Supervisor Samantha Harazin and Aaliyah Baker, Assistant to the Post House Ballroom.

The Post House Ballroom weddings of the past ...

Famou s

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

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8 FUN & GAMES

couple s

Monthly activities and meetings: Whiteside County Senior Center SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL SITES, ACTIVITIES AND CLINICS ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

PENDING

April 5

April 12

9 a.m-1 p.m. – ADRC over-the-phone assistance

9 a.m-1 p.m. – ADRC over-the-phone assistance

April 19

9 a.m-1 p.m. – ADRC over-the-phone assistance

April 26 9 a.m-1 p.m. – ADRC over-the-phone assistance

Weekly activities and meetings: Whiteside County Senior Center SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL SITES, ACTIVITIES AND CLINICS ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 12:30 p.m. – Crochet/Knitting Club free lessons. See Special Events elsewhere in Golden Echo for more details.

Tuesdays 8 a.m-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab

10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m.-noon – Commodities; must meet income guidelines 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:45 p.m. – Euchre, $3 to play; prizes; bring a snack.

12:45 p.m. – Scrabble; bring a snack 1 p.m. – Pool playing; membership required

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 1 p.m. – Bingo; bring a canned good or $1 to play

PENDING

Wednesdays

8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m. – Canasta

Thursdays

8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.-10 a.m. – Yoga, bring mat, membership required 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Hand and Foot game; bring a snack

1 p.m. – Pool playing; membership required

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m. – Intermediate line dancing; check to see where dancing 11 a.m. – Beginning line dancing 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 12:45 p.m. – Mexican Train Dominoes; prizes, and bring a snack.

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.

Upcoming Trips We are so, so sorry – the Mackinac Island Trip has been postponed by Diamond Tours. Diamond Tours is postponing the Mackinac Island trip due to their corporate decision that all seniors traveling on their buses must have the second Covid-19 Vaccine Shot. LCCOA has decided to cancel the trip until Diamond Tours finalizes their agenda. We feel it is unfair to our seniors to keep getting their hopes up just to turn around and dash them. As soon as we have a firm commitment from Diamond tours we will notify all our clients. LCCOA will be returning your checks/money. Thank you for always supporting LCCOA. We are heartbroken; we too were looking forward to this adventure.

Lee County Council on Aging Presents ALASKA with Celebrity Cruises and a pre-night in Seattle at the Grand Hyatt Aug. 26-Sept. 3, 2021 – 9 days / 8 nights Cost: Starting at $2,944, based on double occupancy Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity that offers all the extras! With provided transportation from Dixon to O’Hare, the flight, transportation to the Grand Hyatt hotel, a 3 hour morning city tour of Seattle, the cruise itself, and all return transportation. In addition to this you will be traveling with Samantha Harazin of

our Outreach department as your group leader. Included with the cruise is a special on-board cocktail party, and 2 Sail Your Way perks that can truly make it an all-inclusive vacation! Passports are required and deposit is due upon sign up to reserve your spot. Space is limited.

Name your adventure If we could start taking day-trips again this fall season, WHERE would YOU like to go? What would YOU like to DO? Sightseeing? Shopping? Touring? Please call Susan Lawler at the Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 with your traveling ideas.

Whiteside County Senior Center is Cruising the Caribbean September 25-October 8 Cost: $3,150. Cost includes bus, transfers, hotel, cruise, and meals on ship.

Aren’t you ready for a much-needed vacation? Don’t miss this opportunity to travel with us! Board the Celebrity Equinox to cruise the Caribbean Sea and enjoy seven ports: St. Croix, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, Roseau, and St. Kitt.

Celebrity Equinox is owned and operated by Celebrity Cruises.

Don’t wait – schedule today! Call 622-9230 and leave a message for Glenda.

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Trip postponed

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April Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

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

April 1-2 THURSDAY: Beefaroni, green beans, cauliflower, garlic bread, apricots. FRIDAY: a) tuna noodle casserole, broccoli\ carrots. pineapple tidbits. dinner roll, b.) chicken salad/tomato

April 5-9 MONDAY: hamburger patty, wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend veggies, diced peaches. TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, augratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, dinner roll\butter, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, California-blend veggies, wheat bread, apricots.

THURSDAY: sweet and sour meatballs,

fluffy rice, blended veggies, dinner roll\ butter, diced pears FRIDAY: A) pepper steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, wheat bread, mandarin oranges, B.) turkey with vegetables

April 12-16 MONDAY: baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed peas, dinner roll\butter, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY: meatloaf, cheesy potatoes, Brussels sprouts, wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY: baked pork chop, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, dinner roll\butter, cherry crisp. THURSDAY: Italian sausage w\ peppers on a bun, red potato wedges,

Italian blend veggies, apricots. FRIDAY: A.) crispy fish sandwich on wheat bun with tartar sauce, mac & cheese, peas, diced peaches, B.) turkey/minestrone

April 19-23 MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, mandarin oranges, dinner roll. TUESDAY: sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry veggies, dinner roll\butter, apricots.

WEDNESDAY: meatball sub, peas & carrots, season potato wedges, diced peaches THURSDAY: A) turkey burger on wheat bun, sweet potato fries, broccoli, apple crisp, B.) tuna salad/chicken and rice. FRIDAY: hot ham & cheese on

a wheat bun, tator tots,baked beans, chilled applesauce

April 26-30 MONDAY: BBQ riblet, wheat bun, cheesy potatoes, country mixed vegetables, diced pears. TUESDAY: creamy chicken pasta, carrots, steamed peas, wheat bread, chilled pineapple.

WEDNESDAY: cheeseburger on wheat bun, tator tots, baked beans, ambrosia fruit salad THURSDAY: A) lemon pepper chicken, wild rice, broccoli,dinner roll, applesauce, B) ham/vegetable. FRIDAY: citrus-baked ham, sweet potatoes, Scandinavian-blend veggies, dinner roll, diced peaches

April meals at Whiteside County Senior Center Lunch will not be served until further notice. We will follow guidelines set forth by the state. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Please contact us at 622-9230 if you are in need of local home meal resources. Thank you.

April meals at Golden Meals in Rock Falls For more information about home-delivered meals, call 626-4442.

April 1-2 THURSDAY: baked cod in butter, au gratin potatoes, lima beans, wheat bread; FRIDAY: sites closed

THURSDAY: hot turkey sandwich, , mashed potatoes, scalloped corn; FRIDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, green beans, wheat bread

April 12-16

April 5-9 MONDAY: sloppy Joes, oven potatoes, peas & carrots, wheat bun; TUESDAY: spaghetti, , peas, apricots, wheat bread; WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak w/ mushrooms, , mashed potatoes, creamed corn, wheat bread;

MONDAY: hot dog, , oven potatoes, baked beans, bun; TUESDAY: baked chicken, , mashed potatoes, peas, wheat bread; WEDNESDAY: macaroni cheese casserole, , green beans, mixed fruit, wheat bread;THURSDAY: roast pork loin, cheesy potatoes, mixed veg-

etables, wheat bread; FRIDAY: tuna & noodles, peas, peaches, wheat bread

April 19-23 MONDAY: tuna salad, , potato salad, mandarin oranges, bun; TUESDAY: chicken noodle casserole, , (veggies in casserole), applesauce, wheat bread; WEDNESDAY: sausage gravy over biscuit, , mashed potatoes, peas; THURSDAY: maple glazed ham, , sweet potatoes, spinach, wheat bread; FRIDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, mashed

potatoes, fruit, wheat bun

April 26-30 MONDAY: beef stew, , peaches, cornbread; TUESDAY: chicken casserole, , parslied potatoes, creamed corn, wheat bread; WEDNESDAY: meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, wheat bread; THURSDAY: baked cod in lemon butter, , au gratin potatoes, lima beans, wheat bread; FRIDAY: tater tot casserole, ( veggies in casserole), pineapple, wheat bread

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

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

Fares: (within county)

People age 6 to 59 years: $2 one way Seniors or individuals with a disability: Donation suggested (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program)

Fares: (within zip code)

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-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 25 cents per mile

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

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

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

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL LCCOA ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-288-9236 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Closed for the holiday The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Transportation, and the Lee-Ogle Transportation System will be closed on Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday. We will re-open on Monday, April 5.

The LCCOA Spring Fund drive continues through April and into May

If we are able to resume Day Trips to area events or places this fall, where would you like to go? Shopping?? Entertainment?? Sightseeing?? Call us at 815-288-9236 or email us at lccoa@comcast.net to let us know!

The FUNDrive is gathering gently used mens, womens and childrens clothing for all seasons. The Drive is also collecting blankets, covers and sheets; shoes and sneakers; belts and purses of all shapes and sizes. The deadline for gathering is Monday, May 10. Please use 13-gallon bags, or 30-gallon bags, if you have them.

If you have any questions, please call 815-288-9236. No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted. Thank you for your kindness.

Covid vaccine info for seniors

2021 membership drive continues

Call the Health Department at 815-284-3371 to make an appointment to get your Covid-19 vaccinations. Then, you can call LCCOA Senior Transportation at 815-2889236 for a free ride to and from your vaccinations.

Lee County Council on Aging provides services to all seniors and disabled individuals in Lee County. We are experiencing increased requests for services, at a time when our grant income is shrinking, as grant providers have cut back. Your membership and extra donations continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Lee County Seniors – our families, friends, and neighbors! You have helped us so much with your Memberships and Gifts in the past! Please renew today! We need you more than ever!

Ready to go??? Read to do some day-trippin’??

Need a lift to vote?

Election Day in Lee County is coming up April 6. LCCOA Transportation can get you to and from your polling place. Call 815-288-9236 for a ride.

Upcoming Special Events in Whiteside County SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS ALL WCSC ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Fancy Feet Foot Clinic Please call the Senior Center to inquire whether we are open to the public. Please call 815-213-0324 to schedule a foot care appointment.

SCUG (Sauk Computer User’s Group) 1 p.m. April 10 Sauk Computer Users Group will meet via Zoom at 1 p.m. Please email saukcomputerusersgroup@gmail.com for more details.

Rules of the Road Date to Be Determined Free virtual education offered by the Illinois Secretary of State

TRIAD – Zoom meeting 12:30 p.m. April 21 Come and join this group that is 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.orgif you would like to participate.

WCSC and WCPT will be closed on Friday April 2

Good News Sauk Valley Media would like to offer you a special deal on your next classified ad!

• 5 lines of ad copy •Ad runs for 5 days

All for only $14.00

CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222

Special offer good for seniors age 65 and older, proof of age required. Must be pre-paid. Following restrictions apply: No Rummage Sales, Real Estate, Rental Ads or Business Ads. Items must be owned by senior citizen placing ad.

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

Beware of Covid-related scams From The Senior Medicare Patrol As the number of people and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic grows, so do the scams associated with it. Scammers use public health emergencies as opportunities for new fraud schemes, and because older adults are at greater risk for serious illness from COVID-19, they may target older populations.

It’s important to remember that although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health officials may contact you if they believe you may have been exposed to the virus, they will not need to ask you for insurance or financial information.

Scammers rapidly alter their tactics and adapt their schemes to the changing landscape, and we anticipate that they will leverage the COVID-19 vaccine to prey on unsuspecting beneficiaries. Be vigilant and protect yourself from potential fraud concerning COVID-19 vaccines and treatments.

Here are things you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine: • You will not need to pay anything out-of-pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.

• You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You cannot pay to get early access to the vaccine.

• You will not be solicited door to door to receive the vaccine.

• No one from Medicare or the Health Department with contact you.

• No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) recommends that Medicare beneficiaries: • Contact your own doctor if you are experiencing potential symptoms of COVID-19.

• Do not give out your Medicare number, Social Security number, or personal information in response to unsolicited calls, texts, emails, home visits, or booths at health fairs and other public venues. If your personal information is compromised, it may be used in other fraud schemes as well.

• Be suspicious of anyone going door-to-door to offer free coronavirus or COVID-19 testing, supplies, treatments, or vaccines.

• Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or

JOIN A COMMUNITY that feels like family and feel supported every step of the way.

At Liberty Court in Dixon, Illinois, it’s our mission to provide the support you or your loved one needs to live as independently as possible by meeting them at precisely the point they are at in life with highly personalized service plans.

Whether someone needs a little help with the activities of daily living or has a memory loss illness and needs around-the-clock support in a warm, welcoming environment.

Let us help with: • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Respite Living

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, March 31, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

12 SAFEGUARDING SENIORS

www.libertycourtseniorliving.com

receiving any COVID-19-related treatment.

• If you get a call, text, email — or even someone knocking on your door — claiming they can get you early access to the vaccine, STOP. That’s a scam.

• Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), looking for errors or claims for products or services that weren’t received.

• Follow the instructions of your state or local government for other actions you should be taking in response to COVID-19.

• Contact your local SMP for help. SMPs empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is ready to provide you with the information you need to PROTECT yourself from Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse; DETECT potential fraud, errors, and abuse; and REPORT your concerns. SMPs help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries in the fight against health care fraud. Your SMP can help you with your questions, concerns, or complaints about potential fraud and abuse issues. It also provides information and educational presentations. To locate your local Senior Medicare Patrol, call 1-877-808-2468 or visit www.smpresource.org.