From the Directors

From the LCCOA Executive Director

By Susan Lawler

Well, my friends, Lee County Council on Aging is buzzing. We are opening up for Bingo, and we are optimisti Open Mic will happen in July. Our seniors have been proactive in registering for the Covid-19 Vaccine; LCCOA now can move forward in allowing more and more of our seniors back into the Center.

Bingo, Bingo everywhere

It appears that not only is LCCOA opening up for Bingo, but more and more church groups have started back. Here at LCCOA on May 14, we had our first Bingo. It was truly a fun day. Marisa was our caller and Aaliyah was her helper. Terry Christian created beautiful floral arrangements to be given away as prizes. We had a fun group; we truly missed seeing all of our seniors. It really was like old times – but better. There was a little sadness to go along with our happiness; we lost so many of our seniors this year, and their faces were missed in the room. We will remember them always in our hearts, and we will often mentioned them throughout the days ahead.

We are Trippin’

Our phones have been ringing off the hook — the Ark trip is truly a hit!!! Please call and reserve your spot. If we know our number count early, we probably can add a second bus. Marisa is planning wonderful games to play along the way, and I am sure she might even dance or sing a song. So make that call to 815-2889236; ask for Marisa. She is waiting to hear from you.

North to Alaska

North to Russia Zone

We are still hitting the road, and taking this wonderful cruise to Alaska. You know with Samantha on board you are in safe arms. She will take care of you as if you were her own grandparents; in saying this she will treat you royally. The trip is one you have been waiting for all your life; don’t miss out. You have your shots; so what are you waiting for???? Call Samantha at 815-288-9236.

A Holiday Cruise

Boy! Do we have fun in store for you in November; the Celebration Belle Holiday Cruise is Nov. 19-20 — two days and one fun-filled night. Every one of my staff wants to cruise; unfortunately LCCOA cannot close our doors to go play with you. We wish we could, but some of us need to stay home and man the store. So here you go! You asked for a Cruise, you asked for Christmas, you asked for a Casino trip — well, we are giving you everything all wrapped up in one beautiful package, with a big bow on top. Call Marisa for details at 815-288-9236.

The Next Picture Show

We are always talking about what is our next trip; what about a trip to the Next Picture Show? It is right in our own backyard. Shall we plan an afternoon, and then do lunch? We can all use a little culture in our lives, and our local artists can provide this and more. Give us a call at 815-288-9236

Our Founder Has Left us After 100 Years

With all the joy that is happening at LCCOA Senior Center, with it comes some sadness. One of our founding “Mothers,” Helen Elizabeth Rodgers, has passed away, at age 100.

When you read all of her accomplishments, you realize she packed two lifetimes into one. She was a forerunner in an era when women didn’t attend college,and on top of this she was a Physical Therapist, another career that was left to the world of men. She pushed her way through a man’s world and came out on top. Her children and husband were very proud of her, and we here at Lee County Council on Aging are so very grateful for her foresight in knowing the needs of the seniors of Lee County. Where would we be without her fortitude and perseverance to establish our senior center? Helen, and all of the other wonderful individuals gave of themselves to form this well-needed agency. Thank you, Helen, from all the seniors in Lee County. Thank you, Helen, for caring. Thank you, Helen, for your initiative — just thank you, Helen, for being you. May God take care of you, as you have taken care of so many.

The Passing of

Michael Robert O’Connell

Although Mike is not officially a Lee County senior, he gave us his wife of 35 years to serve this community, as Director of Heritage Square and chairwoman for Lee County Council on Aging. Mike and Bonnie worked hand-in-hand devoting their lives to our community. Mike and Bonnie both gave a new meaning to volunteerism. Mike, as member of the Mt. Morris Moose, Checker Car Club and the Lee County Irish Heritage Society, gave countless hours to enrich the Lee and Ogle communities. He will truly be missed by all his friends, family and community. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” May God be with you, Mike, and may heaven open up its gates so you may pass through and be welcomed with open arms.

Until next time: LCCOA a place where you belong a place to call home.

Happy Fathers and Grandfathers Day. – Susan

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk

As I am writing this (May 11), we are still waiting for the weather to warm up. We had a short lilac and morel mushroom season with it being dry and cooler, a little disappointing but that is Mother Nature and we can’t change it. I have included some photos of the simple beauty that surrounds us during this time of year (see page 6). Changes of season will be upon us soon with the first day of summer, coming June 20. I am hoping for many sunshine filled days for all!

Change is sometimes hard for us as we age; we like things just as they always were. But sometimes, change can be exciting and scary all at the same time! Oprah Winfrey once said, “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” We have some awesome changes coming for the senior center when we are able to safely re-open. I can share a little information right now, however, we are still in the infancy stages with some of the revamping of our space at the center, but I can say that we will be able to offer some more social engagement opportunities for each one of you and all the things that you enjoy, Monday through Friday at the center! I am so very excited! I hope you will join me in the excitement once you experience it!

Please understand that when we do re-open, there will be modifications to keep you and our staff safe. Again, there will be changes in what we are accustomed to always having done. I do know for certain that masks will be mandatory (no exceptions) during your time in the center, along with Covid questionnaires and temperature screenings upon entry. Please be patient with us as we navigate these modifications. We are currently waiting for the state to release the statewide guidelines for senior center re-openings. I will attempt to keep you updated on which activities we can safely resume and which ones we will need to wait on, based on the metrics within our county. If you need assistance scheduling your Covid-19 vaccine appointment, please contact Reception and we can assist you. Whiteside County has multiple vaccine opportunities available, so consider rolling up your sleeve.

In the near future, we will also be able to offer you the Golden Echo newspaper from a newsstand outside of our building. This touchless method will be perfect for you to be able to drive up and grab an Echo if you do not receive it with your newspaper subscription. Another positive addition to the senior center!

Follow us on Facebook for updates!

Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads and Grandpas out there! Remember to enjoy the everyday beauty that surrounds us and find tiny blessings along the way!

Be Well! Beth

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.