Golden Echo
The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Center and Senior Transportation, along with the Whiteside County Senior Center and WCPT, will be closed Monday, May 30, to observe Memorial Day. So, there will be no buses on Memorial Day. We will re-open and buses will be running again as usual on Tuesday, May 31.
A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies
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VOLUME 15 • MAY 2022 • EDITION 5
JOIN US FOR A TRIP ON
Thursday, Sept. 29 GAME TIME: 1:20 P.M.
the For more information, see 9 ge pa on Trips listings
• Tickets will be issued on the bus the day of the game • No refunds will be given if you are unable to attend the day of the game • You may bring snacks and beverages on bus — no milk products please • No alcohol allowed on the motor coach • Bus will depart from Sterling Walmart at 8:30 a.m. • We will stop at the Dekalb Oasis on the way to Wrigley Field, and might stop on the way back, depending on how late the game runs
Cost $65 for members, $90 for non-members. Includes bus, tolls, parking and game ticket. Seats are terrace reserved outfield, first base Sign up at Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling Last day to sign up is Sept. 16
INSIDE From the Directors........................................2 Thank You’s...................................................4 Membership Dues Paid.................................4
Photos...................................................5, 6 & 7 Weekly/Monthly Activities................11 & 12 Upcoming Trips.............................................9
Meal Menus................................................. 10 Special Events.....................................11 & 12 Outreach........................................................8
Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
GOLDEN ECHO
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From the LCCOA Executive Director By Susan Lawler You know what they say: “ April Showers bring May Flowers,” but in our case April snows will not bring May flowers. Our Master Gardeners tell us not to plant flowers until the weather stabilizes. We are looking forward to the beautiful Petunias that will once again enhance the beauty of our building. Hasn’t this been a crazy beginning to spring? One day we are out wearing short-sleeve shirts, and the next day we have our winter boots and scarves on. Who said there is no global warming??? I often wonder if Illinois will become the next Florida. I am sure I will not live to see it, but it would be something to see.
Well, my friends, May has arrived, and the Center is hoping. We have so many events and activities planned for you, from trips to White Pines to trips to Ireland. We have something for everyone. So keep reading the Echo and follow us on Facebook — we will keep you posted with dates and times.
Post House Ballroom
Our Post House Ballroom is pleased to host another event for the Reagan Ranch Foundation on May 6. The Ballroom is a perfect setting for every and any occasion, from a 200 guest wedding to an afternoon card game. Our historic beauty is here to serve Lee County for many years to come.
From the WCSC Director By Susie Welch With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I think of the Foster Grandparents who serve in our local classrooms. These lovely ladies (and men) have raised their families, helped with their grandkids and now share motherly (and fatherly) love with students and teachers. In March of 2020 these remarkable men and women faced a new challenge when we were confined to our homes. The whole world was soon revolving around the internet — kids were learning from home on it, adults were working from home on it and medical appointments were made via the internet. As the ringleader of the Foster Grandparents, I saw a real need for Grandparents to learn technology. Now the Foster Grandparents will tell you, I forced them kicking and
screaming to learn technology, but many great things came out of this. It gave them something new to learn — and learning helps keep our brains active. It gave them something to do to replace the active school life they had before March 2020. The internet gave them a sense of togetherness as they read my daily posts on Facebook and participated in weekly Zoom meetings. The Grandparents went on to use technology in their personal lives to attend church virtually, have medical appointments at Mayo Clinic in the comfort of their own home, and they were able to schedule their own vaccine appointments online. Like it or not, the Internet is the way of the future. The Center is ramping up to help seniors who want to learn the opportunity to do so. As
It’s time to celebrate all the wonderful women in our lives. It is not just for the moms who gave us life, but for every woman who took on the
role of caregiver. Isn’t that what mothers are all about? They are caregivers, protectors, teachers, master chefs, and they are there to comfort you when you are sad. So take a moment and think about every woman in your life who was there for you. Her name might not be “Mom,” but in some shape or form she was your mom. My mom passed away on Mother’s Day, it is a bittersweet day for me. On one hand it reminds me that I cannot tell her how much she meant to me, but on the other hand I wouldn’t be here, and my 5 amazing children and 6 wonderful grandchildren wouldn’t be here without her. So thank you, Mom, for all you did, and I know you are waiting for me in heaven. Until that time, Happy Mother’s Day to all you amazing women from all of us here at Lee County Council on Aging. LCCOA: A place where you belong, a place to call home. — Susan
we go forward, we will try to offer virtual options for our educational training, so those not comfortable with group settings yet or confined to home can still participate. Our Outreach Department is ready to help you apply for subsidies to make the internet affordable, and free computers. Individuals and groups are coming forward to volunteer at the Center with training and assistance with technology. The County is also planning for our future internet needs. Whiteside County is assessing the internet availability of the community — and you can help by completing a short survey. Valuable information can be assessed by you completing this survey from your home internet. Just go to www.connectwhiteside.org/survey. If you do not have internet at home, please stop by the Center and pick up a paper survey. Surveys can be picked up Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. or Saturday May 21, at the Mother-Daughter Tea that the Whiteside County Senior Center is hosting. We will be having a light luncheon and a “Golden Girls” trivia contest that day. Grab your mom, grandma, friend, daughter or daugh-
ter-in-law and join us at the Center for fun! Recommended donation is $5 per person — check or cash accepted. RSVP by calling 815-622-9230 by Thursday, May 19. Every month new groups and individuals are coming forward to share their talents to help the seniors in Whiteside County. Last month the University of Illinois Extension Office helped arrange our food pantry and three people volunteered to help on Commodities Day. Our grand reopening for the Food Pantry is scheduled for May 5. Another member of the community has come forward to teach quilting and another has donated a quilting rack to us. Many of you have also been willing to share yourselves by befriending a new patron, making someone feel welcomed at the Center, or sharing a smile or a laugh. Now there’s a new way you can be a part of the solution by helping our community by filling out the Connect Whiteside survey and helping the Whiteside County Senior Center honor our senior moms by attending the Mother-Daughter Tea. — Susie
“Back in My Day”
I know you will not believe it, but our hardcover book, “Back in My Day,” will be arriving any day. Please call us at 815-288-9236 to reserve a copy or two. A donation would be greatly appreciated, but not required. LCCOA is taking submissions for our next edition, so please keep sending in your wonderful interesting stories, poems, recipes and more; we cannot wait to read them.
Aging in Place
Just a reminder May is Older Americans Month. Our focus is always on our seniors. Mark your calendars for May 11th. Janell Loos from Heritage Woods will have a presentation on safety in the bath and home. LCCOA will provide lunch; please call 815-288-9236 and reserve your spot.
Mother’s Day
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.
POST HOUSE BALLROOM
Our timeless beauty in a historic setting is perfect place for any event. The Post House welcomes back our Euchre players, who have found the Ballroom’s spaciousness and quiet environment a perfect place to play cards. These avid players invite all seniors to join them for a Friday afternoon of fun and games. The Ballroom was a great place for AARP Tax Aide workers to recently service the seniors of our community. These dedicated men and women volunteered their time and energy for more than 8 weeks preparing taxes for Lee County Council on Aging seniors. We owe these generous men and women our gratitude for providing tax aide to more than 160 Lee County seniors. Thank you, George, and your wonderful team. Get some rest, we will see you next year. Our dance floor at the Post House Ballroom is always business with LCCOA’s very own Line Dancers. If you like dancing, then put on your boots and come on down and join the men and women for a morning of the best music in town. Each month the Ballroom host many events and organizational meetings. We are not just a pretty face; we have a great atmosphere for educational training, corporate presentations, networking and, of course, senior activities. We look forward to seeing you at the Post House Ballroom.
If you like dancing, then put on your boots and come on down and join the Line Dancers at the Post House.
Seniors recently received help with their taxes from AARP Tax Aid workers at The Post House Ballroom.
Euchre players invite seniors to join them for a Friday afternoon of fun and games.
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, Apr 27, 2022
What’s happening at The Post House?
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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
GOLDEN ECHO
4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS Sara Elliott Lucinda Gleissner Ginny Novak Carl Smith Louise Smith Jeanne Zimmerman Sara Burris Bernard & Joan Keen
LCCOA welcomes members
Kay Miller Robert & Carol Moon Dolores Renne Wendy Willett Patricia Schmidt Carol & Bill Wadsworth Ortgiesen Stan & June Wolzer Carol Whetstone Robert Sr. & Evelyn Thomas
Merrilee & Roger Theisinger Cindy Sondgeroth Mary Sekse Carl & Pat Engle Scroggins Margie Pasley Connie Milosevic Beverly McMillion Colette Massoni
Larry & Rose Leffelman Delores Kness Donald Kelly Vincent & Michelle Ippolito Robert & Elaine Hazelwood Doug & Julie Farster Beverly Duryea Sharon Dunphy Patsy Commons
Ron & Lucy Chamberlain Jack Baylor Larry & Diane Bailey Crawford W&a & Gene McBride John & Diane Schoaf Mary Jane Shank Myrl Johnson Robert & Sara Sawyer
Mary Barnett Marie Tabers Philip Bondi Ruby Bondi Janet Haas Terry Steder Sue White Holly Brockman John & Kathleen Dickinson
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. Jessie Ware Leydig Center Susan Johnson Kristine Schuler Nancy Gates, Lori Kilgore LCCOA Line Dancers
Janet Butler Keri Villa- Nantz Liberty Village of Rochelle Sami Rodriguez – Petersen Health Care Scott Oesterlin Safe Life Home Health Care
Darla Foulker NIAAA Terry Christian Francis and Jean Fogle Mark and Kristi Reiss Whatever it Takes Joyce Gibson
Lee County Rusty Schrader Lee County United Way Amanda Wike Lifescape Amy Ortiz
Ben Galantine — Johnson CPA Franklin Grove Living & Rehab Meadows of Franklin Grove Oregon Living & Rehab Tiffany Henkel Vicki Smith
WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2022 Frank Harts Ted Harts Leanne Keate Rita Peltier Luis and Nancy Ramirez
Terry and Lorraine Gaskill Terry and Sharon Wagner Kenneth and Barbara Shawver Leonard and Jane Johnson Mauro Marruffo
Carroll and Karen Berg Joseph Mazziotta Susan Moore Eugene and Wanda McBride Barbara Clark
Ida Staelens Richard and Lauretta Gingrich Donald and Vicki Hay Nancy Weidel
Esther Mossey Rosemarie Merced James and LuAnn Meyer Jerry and Sandra Hutsell Barb Sisson
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. You can mail your check to WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. We are increasing activities for 2022 and we always appreciate your continued support of our Aging and Disabled Resource Center and we appreciate YOU!
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 with our center to provide programs and activities for our seniors. 1st Reformed Church-Fulton AARP Tax Volunteers Alzheimer’s Association B. Beatty (in memory of Art Bendick) John Booker Joe Bright Karla Burn Al Campbell CGH Health Foundation Erie Public Library
D. Haag (in memory of Art Bendick) R. Koster (in memory of Art Bendick) Beth Hubbard Gene Jacoby Sasha Logan Glenda MacLennan Golden Meals Heritage Woods of Sterling Joe & Margery Fornero (in memory of Art Bendick) Linda McCormick
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 Sami Rodriguez
Michelle Miller Neal Shipley NIAAA Odell Public Library, Morrison PCtech2u Prophetstown Library Shepherd Premier Senior Living Riverbend Food Bank Rusty Schrader Sauk Valley Food Bank
SBM SCUG (in memory of Art Bendick) SURF Broadband Emily Taylor TRIAD of Sterling United Way of Sterling Univ of IL Extension- Marcia & Veronica WACC of Sterling Cindy Wadsworth Whiteside County
Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers Joe Bright – President Michelle Miller – Vice President Beth Hubbard Gene Jacoby
Sasha Logan — Treasurer Cindy Wadsworth – Secretary
John Booker Al Campbell
Emily Taylor Karla Burn
WCSC
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DO YOU MISS RONALD REAGAN?
Our first bus trip for the season was a hit! Fun was had by all who attended Starved Rock.
HELP PASS ON THE REAGAN LEGACY AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION
VOLUNTEER AT THE REAGAN BOYHOOD HOME!
CONTACT KYLE AT REAGANBOYHOODHOME@YAF.ORG OR CALL US AT 815.288.5176 FOR MORE INFORMATION. SM-ST1972915
GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
This trip really rocked!
Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
GOLDEN ECHO
6 WCSC
Breakfast Club invites you to rise and dine
Our first-ever Breakfast Club had a fun time! They will meet again at 9 a.m. May 27. Call WCSC to find out where. Join us for lunch! Linda from Golden Meals serves from 11 a.m. -noon Monday through Thursday.
Helping hands fill our food pantry
A special thanks from Susie, our director, to Veronica, Marcia, and volunteer Linda for helping us move and organize the new Food Pantry. We will be opening on Thursday, May 5, from 1-3 p.m.
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Embrace personal freedom and explore e the endless opportunities to connect with others, o join in activities, tivities, and live your y life to the fullest. t. Our team of professional essional and compassionate caregivers s are ar here each dayy to make mak sure e the individuals in our care enjoy an extraordinary aordinary living experience in an exceptional ex tional environment. vir t.
Call (815)285-2000 285-2000 today to schedule a tour! Call Andrea Larry atat(815) today to schedule a tour! (815) 285-2000 | www.LibertyCourtSeniorLiving.com www 124 Liberty Court Dixon, Dix IL 61021
Dr. Nathan Mauren
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LCCOA
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Susan Johnson and Real Time Pain Relief are providing free Covid- 19 test kits to all our seniors in Lee County. For more information, please call LCCOA at 815-288-9236. Thank you, Susan and Real Time, for your continuing support of LCCOA and all of our seniors in the community!
Over 50 lunches served for Easter!
Join LCCOA in remembering friends The Daffodils are poking their heads through the ground, bringing us hope of Spring and reminding us to plant new flowers in our Butterfly Garden. Unfortunately, it is also time to add more names to our plaque, which honors our friends who still walk beside us every day. On June 21, at 1 p.m., we will hold a remembrance of our friends. Included in our new plaque will be Nell, Linda and Twila. Everyone is invited to attend an afternoon in our Butterfly Garden to remember all our dearly departed friends.
"TAKE CARE OF THOSE YOU LOVE."
At Heritage Woods of Sterling, you'll enjoy friendly neighbors to share common life experiences and an active community full of choices.
Lee County Council on Aging provided over 50 lunches to our seniors in Lee County. Thank you Vicki, Tiffany and Franklin Grove Living & Rehab, Meadows of Franklin Grove and Oregon Living & Rehab for helping LCCOA’s drivers deliver lunches to our Seniors.
Happy Mother’s Day from Lee County Council on Aging ... Susan, April, Aaliyah, Michael D., Chris, Betsy, Kathy, Jim, Michael R., Terry, Marisa, Samantha
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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
Free Covid tests available
WCSC
Outreach at LCCOA : Do you qualify? Benefit Access Application This program is mostly known for the license plate discount it provides, however for those who use fixed transit transportation, such as that found in Chicago, you can also request to apply for the ride free portion of this application. Income guidelines are based on yearly (2021) income and would be from your Federal 1040 form and accompanying documents. If you did not file taxes this year it would be taken from your 1099’s you received in January. Your total income, including social security, will count toward this application. If you are married we are required to use both of your incomes. See chart below. Note: If you care for someone in your home outside of yourself and spouse, then we can possibly use that person to help qualify you, and we do not count their income. Three-person household: $55,500 The license plate discount has continued to be significant, and saves the average person $127, as a standard registration costs $151. In order to receive your discount you must tell the DMV that you have this discount; it will not show up on your registration postcard that the Secretary of State’s office sends you prior to your sticker’s expiration date.
They will ask for your date of birth and social security number in order to verify your eligibility; you will then be charged $24 (standard registration only, additional fees for specialty or vanity plates, subject to change at any time). This application is a two-year running program, which means you are eligible for 2 discounts in that timeframe: one per year. You can only renew your application within 90 days of its expiration date and the renewal will pick up on the expiration date of your current application. License plate sticker/registration renewal is not the same as the Benefit Access Renewal — these are two separate things.
Medicare Savings Program (MSP) MSP is a federally funded, state run Medicaid program that can help you pay your Medicare premiums, and possibly deductibles, and coinsurance. As tiered-style program it has three levels: QMB, SLIB and QI-1. This program is both income and asset based and is an Illinois HFS/DHS program. The highest income limit is listed and based on gross monthly amount. Asset limit does not reflect a $1,500 exclusion on
life insurance/burial fund. (This is the program that all those commercials keep referencing.)
Extra Help / Low Income Subsidy (LIS) A federal program, and Social Security program, designed to help lower income and asset individuals with their Part D plan premiums, medication costs, and even Late Enrollment Penalties (LEP). While these are just a few of the programs that we assist with, they are among some of the most needed and under-sought programs, therefore we want you to be aware and reach out to us so that we can help you understand these programs and apply as needed. Our individual SHIP certification allows us the ability to provide you education and assistance on these programs. Remember, we do not charge for our services — though donations are very much appreciated — but you will never be turned away or treated any differently for an inability or unwillingness to donate. Simply, we are here for you! Contact us today to learn more, see if you qualify for any of these programs, or to schedule your appointment. Call 815-288-9236 and ask for Outreach.
Benefit Access Application guidelines Program
Individual Income Limit
Individual Asset Limit Couple Income Limit Couple Asset Limit
Benefit Access Application.......................$33,562 year.................................N/A............................ $44,533 year.........................N/A Medicare Savings Program......................$1,554 month.............................$8,400........................ $2,085 month....................$12,600 Extra Help / Low Income Subsidy........... $1,719 month..............................$15,510.........................$2,309 month....................$30,950
Aging and Disabled Resource Center at satellite locations Our Aging and Disabled Resource Center (ADRC) is happy to announce that we will be at satellite locations throughout the county on Wednesdays beginning in May. First Wednesday — O’Dell Library, 307 S. Madison St., Morrison, 9 a.m.1 p.m. Second Wednesday — Erie Library 802 Eighth Ave., 9 a.m.-noon Third Wednesday — First Reformed Church, 510 15th Ave., Fulton, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fourth Wednesday — Prophetstown Library, 209 W. Third St., 1-5 p.m. We will also be resuming our walk-in days on Mondays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. No appointment is needed and we will assist patrons on a first-come, first-serve basis. We can assist with BAA (license sticker discounts), Senior Tax Freeze, Homestead Exemptions, Med D questions, Social Security Extra Help, Medicaid and Medicare Savings Program, Food Stamp or Link, Patient Assistance Programs, ITAC, Do-Not Call Registry and Information and Referrals. ConnectWhiteside.org needs your help! Your answers to this survey will help us plan to bring affordable, highspeed broadband internet throughout Whiteside County. If you have internet, you may go to connectwhiteside. org/survey. If you don’t currently have internet, then you may come in and pick up a paper survey at the Whiteside County Senior Center.
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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Apr 27, 2022
GOLDEN ECHO
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LCCOA’s upcoming trips for 2022 Seats are filling up fast! A $75 deposit reserves your seat. The price of a trip includes your transportation, hotel, most meals, and any admission fees. The only additional funds needed will be for your extras. LCCOA knows that leaving town and going to new places, or sleeping in a different bed at night, can be disconcerting or even uncomfortable. We always send an LCCOA staff member to accompany those who travel with us. If any glitches or problems occur, the LCCOA “tour guide” is always there, on each and every trip. You may travel far and wide, but you are never alone. LCCOA is always there, having just as much fun as you are! Sign up and come along with us!
The Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountains Show Trip July 11-16, 2022 Cost: $599 for members; $624 for non-members, per person based on double occupancy Motor coach transportation, lodging, admission fees, and eight meals are included. Sit back and enjoy the toe-tapping, hand-clapping All-American Music at six different shows! Bring two cameras – the Smoky Mountains are full of such awesome scenery that you can’t find anywhere else in the country! And visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a little town with a big history! For more information, go to: https:// Grouptrips.com/LEE COUNTY COUNCILONAGING/1893201
The Nashville Show Trip! August 1-6, 2022 Cost: $697 for members, $722 for non-members, per person based on double occupancy See a great show at The Grand Ole Opry! Take photos with your favorite stars at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. Tour a restored Victorian plantation museum. 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: https://Grouptrips. com/LEECOUNTYCOUNCILONAGING/1862233. Please call 815-2889236 and ask for Marisa for questions or to reserve your space
The Garden of the Gods, The Royal Gorge and Colorado Springs Trip! September 11-17, 2022 Cost: $749 for members, $774 for non-members, per person, based on double occupancy Motor coach transportation, lodging, admission fees, and ten meals are included. This is another two-camera trip; there’s majestic scenery everywhere you look! Visit the Garden of the Gods, a wondrous place, a spiritual retreat for ancient peoples. Then travel through some scenic mountains, to visit the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum. Then travel through some more scenery and follow your guide on a tour of the impressive United States Air Force Academy. Then, after travelling, through some more scenery, enjoy the Royal Gorge, where you can chose to
walk across on the suspension bridge, or ride the aerial tram, high above the valley floor. For more information, go to: https:// Grouptrips.com/LEECOUNTYCOUNCILONAGING/1886991
Explore Ireland! October 5-12, 2022 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 e-mailed to you. If you are ready to go, you can call Collette Travel directly at 800-852-5655, ext. 17005 — and make sure to mention booking number 1083188!
Upcoming Trips — WCSC Riverside Casino, Riverside, Iowa Thursday, June 23, 2022 Cost: $47 for members, $72 for non-members Transported by Wiersema Charter. Let’s go to the casino! Trip will include Resort Club Membership, $10 free slot play, $5 off your meal at Robert’s Buffet at 4 p.m. (remainder is your cost), and a driver tip. Sign up at WCSC. Casino trips have been very difficult to book, since many area casinos are not accepting group bus tours at this time! Sign up today, as this trip will fill up fast! Bus will leave Sterling
LCCOA License sticker discount available The Benefit Access Application, offered through the Illinois Department on Aging, is an online-only application.
Walmart at 9:30 a.m. and leave the casino at 5:15 p.m. Join us for a fun time! Sign up at WCSC.
Wrigley Field Cubs vs. Phillies Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022 — 1:20 p.m. game time Cost: $65 for members, $90 for non-members Seats are Terrace Reserved Outfield, Section 230. Tickets will be issued on the bus the day of the game. If you are traveling with friends, we need to know that when you sign up. No refunds will be given if
Upon approval, this application provides a discounted license plate sticker, and if chosen, a Ride Free transit card for fixedroute transportation systems (such as those found in Chicago). Qualifications: Must be age 65+, or able to prove disability status, and fall
you are unable to attend on game day. Bus departs from Sterling Walmart at 8:30 a.m. We will stop at Dekalb Oasis on the way into the game, and MAY stop on way back, depending on how late the game runs. Cost includes bus, tolls, parking game ticket and driver tip. You may bring snacks and beverages on the bus — but no alcohol. Sign up at WCSC.
tion for 15 nights and 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.
Travel with Glenda! 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 Constella-
This trip has been rescheduled — new date to be determined. We are in the process of rescheduling this trip, due to low participation. We apologize for any inconvenience and will announce reschedule dates as soon as confirmation occurs. Thank you. WCSC.
within the income guidelines, using the prior tax season’s Federal taxes (form 1040) and accompanying documents. If you did not file we will need all 1099s and other income from that year. All income is counted, including your full Social Security.
Income guidelines Single: $33,562 Couple: $44,533 3-person household: $55,500 Contact LCCOA at 815-288-9236 (ask for Outreach) or WCSC at 815-622-9230 to complete your application.
American Family Field, Milwaukee, Wi.
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Upcoming Trips —LCCOA
May Lifescape meals
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Lifescape serves seniors in Winnebago, Boone, Lee and Ogle counties. Go to lifescapeservices.org for more information.
May 2-6 MONDAY: hamburger patty, whole grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend vegetables, diced peaches. TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, augratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, whole grain dinner roll fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed pot/gravy, steamed carrots, whole grain wheat bread, papaya and mango fruit cup. THURSDAY: Sweet and sour meatballs, fluffy rice, blended veggies, whole grain dinner roll diced pears. FRIDAY: A.) Tropical chicken salad, cucumber slices, whole grain croissant, mandarin oranges B.) Chicken salad/tomato
May 9-13 MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy peas, whole grain dinner roll, applesauce. TUESDAY: Meatloaf, augratin potatoes, broccoli, whole grain wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY: Italian chicken salad with greens, carrots, eggs, cucumbers,
tomatoes, cheese, whole grain dinner roll, butter, fruit juice. THURSDAY: Italian sausage with peppers on whole grain bun, red potato wedges, Italian blend veggies, fruited Jell-o. FRIDAY: Hot ham & cheese, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, carrots, pineapple tidbits B.) Turkey/minestrone
May 16-20
MONDAY: Jumbo hot dog, whole grain hot dog bun, creamy coleslaw, baked beans, hot cinnamon apples, ketchup/mustard. TUESDAY: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry vegetables, whole grain dinner roll, papaya and mango fruit cup. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, scalloped potatoes, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, sliced peaches. THURSDAY: A) southwest salad, black beans, corn, cheese chicken, tomato, onion, whole grain dinner roll, fruit juice. B.) tuna salad/ chicken rice. FRIDAY: Crispy fish sandwich, whole grain wheat bun with tartar sauce, potato pancakes, broccoli, mixed fruit.
May 23-27 MONDAY: Turkey burger, whole grain wheat bun, augratin potatoes, country mix vegetables, diced pears. TUESDAY: Chef salad with greens, turkey & ham, cucumbers, eggs, tomato, cheese, whole grain dinner roll with butter, fruit juice. WEDNESDAY: Lemon pepper chicken, wild rice, broccoli, whole grain dinner roll applesauce. THURSDAY: A.) Cheeseburger, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, baked beans ambrosia. B.) Ham/ vegetable. FRIDAY: Citrus-baked ham, sweet potatoes, Scandinavian blend, veggies, whole grain dinner roll, diced peaches.
May 30-31 MONDAY: Closed for Memorial Day. TUESDAY: Tropical chicken salad, cucumber slices, whole grain croissant, pineapple juice
8 oz. low-fat milk served with all lunches.
May Golden Meals Please note: Meals will be served at Whiteside County Senior Center Monday through Thursday. Fridays are home delivery only. For more information about home-delivered meals, call 626-4442.
May 2-6
MONDAY: Cowboy hash, apple sauce, whole wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo/pasta, spinach, mixed fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Ham loaf, sweet potatoes, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at the sites that are open on Fridays.
May 9-13
MONDAY: Swedish meatballs, buttered noodles, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Riblets, cheesy potatoes, green beans, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY:
Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, cream corn, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, apple sauce. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at the sites that are open on Fridays.
May 16-20 MONDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, fruit, bun. TUESDAY: baked chicken, mashed potatoes/gravy, carrots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Beef and noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Baked cod in lemon butter, parslied potatoes, carrots, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at the sites that are open on Fridays.
May 23-27 MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, carrots, fruit, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken noodle casserole, veggies in casserole, fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes& ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, apple sauce. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at the sites that are open on Fridays.
May 30-31 MONDAY: Site closed for memorial day. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo/pasta, spinach, mixed fruit, wheat bread.
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 question-and-answer time. There will be a short business meeting followed with a presentation on a relevant computer/technological topic. Everyone with an interest in computers/technology is invited. Refreshments will be available.
Monday at 1-3 p.m. Join us as LuAnn teaches us the art of quilting, beginning with cutting and piecing to completion! What a fun time!
Bible Study Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Pastor Al Campbell will lead a morning bible study. The group will conduct a study of the Hard Sayings of Jesus. Study guides will be provided at no cost.
Classic movie: “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” May 16 at 9 a.m. Join us for a free movie on the big screen.
Pen Pal Club
Foot Clinic Wednesdays, May 4 & 11 Fancy Feet is accepting new clients. Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 to set up an appointment.
Watch Party Friday, May 6 from noon to 1 p.m. Watch a Zoom presentation by Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn as he explains how we can end the heart disease epidemic in the country by changing what we eat. Offered by CGH Health Foundation. Come to the Center and watch on the big screen.
Second Friday of every month, beginning May 13 The Center will provide stationary, and letters will go to local nursing homes and members that need a letter. The Center will provide the meeting space for writing the letters, coffee or tea, and fellowship with others interested in brightening another’s day.
Price is Right May 18 at 10 a.m. Sponsored by Heritage Woods. Come and play the guessing game and win!
Jam Sessions
Mother-Daughter Tea
Thursdays at 1-4 p.m. Come and jam with us in the dining room. We have a piano and an electric piano. Bring your friends and bring your instruments and let’s start a beat! We welcome all genres of music!
May 21 at 2p.m. Join us for Mother-Daughter (or Mother-Friend) Tea. Play “Golden Girls” trivia and win prizes! Cost is $5 donation per person. RSVP by May 19. Includes a light luncheon.
Veterans Coffee
Bingo
May 12 at 9-10 a.m. Veterans Coffee will be held the second Thursday of every month. It’s sponsored by Beacon of Hope Hospice, which will provide snacks. Bring a memory or item from your service time and share your story. Charisse and Carl will lead the group.
May 25 at 12:15 p.m. Join us for some Bingo fun. Please bring a $1 donation for the Food Pantry (no food items accepted) to play. Sponsored by Shepherd Premier Senior Living. This event will take place in the Big Room upstairs.
SCUG May 14 at 1 p.m. Sauk Computer User Group will meet at 1p.m. with a
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 Counselor.
Breakfast Club May 27 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 individual will be responsible for their own meal and tip. Call 815-6229230 to get your name on the list and learn where to meet each month.
Walking Club Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-9 a.m. & Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3-4 p.m. Come in from the elements and beat cabin fever by walking with us! We now have our Center mapped out and measured off to be able to count your steps and your distance. Enjoy up to an hour of walking to benefit your health and make some new friends along the way!
Ladies Golf Group Tuesdays at 9 a.m. This fun group of gals meets at Emerald Hill on Tuesdays for 9 or 18 holes of golf — your choice! Membership dues are $5 for the year, plus green fees with cart every Tuesday, May-September. You don’t have to be a skilled golfer — you just have to want to have fun! Please reach out to Jane with any questions at russjef@ comcast.net. See you on the course!
New To Medicare Class
Mens Golf Group
NEW TIME — May 26 at 11:30 a.m. This class is designed for anyone who is new to Medicare. It helps answer questions you might have about
There is a mens golf group that meets at Emerald Hill. If you are interested in joining the group, please reach out to Don at 815-625-2318.
Weekly activities at WCSC 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.
Mondays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. — Walk- In Days for ADRC 11 a.m.-Noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle for Beginners 1-3 p.m. — Quilt Class 3-4 p.m. — Walking Club
Tuesdays 8-9 a.m. — Walking Club
9 a.m. — Womens Golf 10 a.m. — Bible Study 11 a.m.-Noon — Lunch Noon-4 p.m. — Knitting Club 12:30 p.m. — Euchre 1-4 p.m. — Pool Playing
Wednesdays 9 a.m.-Noon — Canasta 9 a.m.-Noon — Pool
11 a.m.-Noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle 3-4 p.m. — Walking Club
Thursdays 8-9 a.m. — Walking Club 10-11 a.m. — Yoga 11 a.m.-Noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Hand and Foot Cards 1-3 p.m. — Commodities/Food Pantry
COMPLIMENTARY COFFEE AND TEA ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES.
1-4 p.m. — Pool playing 1-4 p.m. — Jam sessions
Fridays 10 a.m.-Noon — Line Dancing Noon-2 p.m. — Pen Pal Club 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle 12:30-4 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes 3-4 p.m. — Walking Club
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Learn to Quilt
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Special Events at LCCOA
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PLEASE NOTE: MASKS AND PROOF OF VACCINATIONS ARE REQUIRED AT LCCOA
health. Happening on Tuesdays at 9 a.m., this activity has been popular at LCCOA for many years because it’s so much fun; there’s a great camaraderie, and you don’t need a partner! The line dancers here at LCCOA are of varying ages and levels of experience — and line dancing isn’t just for country music anymore! If you can tap your toes in time to music, line dancing might be just the thing for you!! LCCOA is looking to start a second line dancing session: Anyone interested in conducting a second session, please contact LCCOA at 815-288-9236.
LCCOA Welcomes the Reagan Ranch Foundation The Reagan Ranch Foundation will conduct part of their two-day American Exceptionalism Seminar at the Post House Ballroom on May 6, 2022. The Foundation owns the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon. High School students will gather to meet like-minded peers from across the country, receive invaluable resources, and tour the charming Midwest home and the town that built young Ronald Reagan. If you see the students walking around Dixon, be sure to greet them and make them feel at home here, too.
Chair yoga for seniors Wednesdays at 1 p.m. Chair Yoga, a new program for seniors here at LCCOA, is a safe and more comfortable method to get the same benefits as regular yoga. Meeting every Wednesday at 1 p.m., our Yoga Leader is trained and certified, and already conducts classes at other locations. Staying seated and off the floor means that even frail seniors, or those who aren’t so flexible, can safely do the exercises. Yoga can help all older adults to loosen and stretch muscles, reduce stress and improve circulation. Each exercise of Chair Yoga can be performed at varying levels of difficulty, depending on a person’s physical ability. Please call 815-288-9236 ahead of time to reserve your chair. Donations are requested; but not required.
Aging in Place Program Wednesday, May 11 May is Older Americans Month — and with the focus on Aging in Place and how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible — LCCOA has prepared a program for May 11: 11 a.m. — Safety in the Home and in the Bathroom program, by Jannell Loos of Heritage Woods in Sterling. Noon — Free lunch provided by LCCOA 1 p.m. — Chair Yoga for seniors, to help us develop a greater sense of balance and help us keep our joints more fluid!
Table crafters at LCCOA
Rummikub at LCCOA Mondays at 1 p.m. Rummikub players are gathering at LCCOA on Mondays at 1 p.m. The European game is becoming increasingly popular here. Rummikub was invented by a Romanian in Israel in the 1940s. It soon became Israel’s best-selling export game. By 1977, it became a bestselling game in the United States. Rummikub, played by 2 to 4 players with numbered tiles, is similar to European card games, such as Machiavelli and Vatikan. Here at LCCOA, we have several games going at the same time! Feel free to join in on the fun!
Line dancing at LCCOA Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Line dancing is a great form of exercise for seniors to improve strength and muscle function, increase balance and flexibility, and improve cardiovascular and heart
Thursdays at 1 p.m. Beadwork, knitting, needlepoint, crocheting and needlework are all types of table crafts enjoyed by persons at the crafters table at LCCOA. Gathering every Thursday at 1 p.m., conversations and laughter fill the room while the crafters busily produce beautiful and colorful, practical and/or whimsical pieces. Feel free to just join in anytime and enjoy the benefits of crafting: reducing stress, improving hand-eye coordination and building friendships and a sense of community. Any ideas on presentations of crafting projects? We love to hear from you! Please call 815-288-9236.
Bingo at LCCOA ONLY ONCE IN MAY — on Friday, May 20, at 9:30 a.m. The games are free! The prizes are free! The fun is free! Bingo at LCCOA has long been a favorite activity. Originally called “beano” when the game first arrived in America in 1929, Bingo has become a weekly fundraising activity in churches all over America. In addition to
being a lot of fun, BINGO increases mental flexibility and alertness, exercises hand-eye coordination, and accelerates healing with laughter and socialization. All is welcome – come and enjoy!
FunSavers is Back! June 9 & 10 LCCOA is having a two-day clothing drive on June 9th and 10th. Drop off your clothing, bedding, shoes, belts, purses, and small household items. We will have volunteers loading our truck, located in our parking lot next to our building. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to help LCCOA, and all of Lee County Seniors. The drop-off time is 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on June 9th and 10th. Please help us have another successful event.
Mexican Train Dominoes Fridays at 1 p.m. The game Americans call Mexican Train is originally a variation on a Chinese game called Pai Gow, which emerged in China before 960 A.D. Chinese laborers brought the game with them when they came to Cuba to work in the sugar cane fields. Then they and Cuban laborers brought the game with them when they came to America to help build the railroads. It became immensely popular with the Mexican laborers also, which is how the game got its name. Join the game and develop your skills at concentration!
Open Mic Night !! Friday, May 27 — doors open at 6:30 p.m., first up at 7 p.m. Music goes until 9:30 p.m. All are welcome!!
“Back In My Day” Now Accepting Submissions Authors, sharpen your quills! LCCOA has announced that we are now taking submissions for a new edition of “Back In My Day”! We are gathering stories, reminiscences of older relatives, recipes, tall tales, fish tales, and wives’ tales. What was your favorite game when you were growing up? Who were your favorite people? What sports or games were you really good at? Whose Grandmother made the best sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies? The deadline for this edition is June 1. Bring or mail your submissions to: LCCOA, 100 W. Second St, Dixon, IL 61021, or email them to: lccoa@comcast.net. For more information, please call 815-288-9236.
Weekly activities at LCCOA PLEASE NOTE: MASKS AND PROOF OF VACCINATIONS ARE REQUIRED AT LCCOA
Mondays
Wednesdays
Thursday
1 p.m. — Rummikub
1 p.m. — Chair yoga for seniors. Call 815-288-9236 to reserve your chair.
1 p.m. — Crafters
Tuesdays 9 a.m. — Line dancers
Fridays 12:30 p.m. — Euchre players
1 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes Friday, May 20 at 9:30 a.m. — Bingo is here!