SVM_Golden Echo_July 2021

The Lee County Council on Aging, Whitseide County Senior Center, Senior Transportation, and the Lee-Ogle Transportation System will be closed on Monday, July 5, in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. We will re-open Tuesday, July 6.

Golden Echo

A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies

VOLUME 15 • JULY 2021 • EDITION 7

Golden Echo

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Read all about it!

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EXTRA EXTRA!

Lee County Council on Aging is now hiring part-time bus drivers This is a great positions for retirees or anyone looking for a few extra hours during the week.

Do you have an Illinois driver’s license?

Can you pass a background check?

Can you pass a drug test?

INTERESTED? APPLY AT ...

Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon Call us at 815-288-9236; e-mail resumés to lccoa@comcast.net

WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St. in Sterling, now has a newspaper stand onsite stocked with copies of Golden Echo. If you missed an issue, pull up at the back of the building, by door #3, and pick up a free copy.

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, Jun 30, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

By Susan Lawler When I was a child, I hated when the Fourth of July would arrive. I knew my summer was over, and school would be starting soon. Even the fireworks didn’t excite me; all I could think of was that summer was almost over, no more trips, no more hanging out at the neighborhood candy store, no more baseball games, and no more carnivals — but here at Lee County Council on Aging we welcome the Fourth of July. We have so much in store for our seniors: Bingo is back, open mic begins, line dancing every Tuesday morning, and three trips in August and September; to top this off, we have Prom right around the corner. The Prom sales are going well, and we just added 25 more tickets.

So what are you waiting for? Come on down to LCCOA and buy a table or two.

Food Box Lifescape and LCCOA partnered up

to provide 30 lbs. of food and household supplies to our seniors 60 and over. This event was a great success.

Our seniors have been calling, and asking when their will be another distribution. If you missed out on your food box, contact Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236.

always had a kind word and a wonderful smile on his face. His family meant the world to him. On one occasion, he told us that his wife and family are the reason he has lived so long; they gave meaning to his life. Warren, thank you for giving meaning to our lives here at LCCOA.

A Gentle Lady

On July 30th, Open Mic is back!

Warm up those fingers, and vocal

Warren Reuter, 97 years old, was a long-time member and supporter of Lee County Council on Aging. He

Janet Hassler was a gentle woman loved by her children, and our drivers here at Lee County Council on Aging.

Janet rode our Senior Transportation weekly. Our drivers would come back and tell us what a sweet and gentle woman she was, and what a pleasure it was to have her on their buses. Janet had two sons and a daughter who adored her. We will truly miss speaking with her boys. Janet’s legacy is raising such wonderful children; no mother could ask for more. Her goodness is reflected in her children, and her memory will last forever. LCCOA will miss Janet. May God look fondly on you, Janet, you have served him well.

Good-bye to all our old friends. You will remain in our hearts, and in spirit here at Lee County Council on Aging.

Until next time ...

LCCOA a place where you belong a place to call home. Susan

patient, as we are happy to announce we will be partnering with Golden Meals Congregate Meal Program, which will offer you a nutritiously balanced meal at a very, very reasonable price! Yes, at a much lower cost to you than what we could offer with the rise of food costs since the pandemic. Many senior centers in the surrounding areas partner with their county congregate meals program and it is highly successful, so we thought we would jump on board that meal train! Things will work a little differently than in the past, and there will be no carry-outs since the focus is for “congregate dining.” However, Golden Meals will be able to provide home-delivered meals, where we were not able to in the past. We will share

more details in the upcoming issue of the Echo prior to re-opening. Stay tuned!

I talked in the previous Echo about change, and this is certainly a time for change at the senior center! We are pleased to announce that we will also be offering some additional great social engagement opportunities at the center when we do re-open. My heart is racing from the excitement!

Do you remember the song, “The Best Is Yet to Come,” recorded by Tony Bennett in 1958? I truly believe that is what is in store for our senior center!

Please consider your annual membership of $25 per person or $35 for two people residing in the same household. Although we do not know exactly what our travel plans will be for future trips, we hope to be offering day trips again prior to the holidays. I know many of you look forward to those! Membership allows you a discount on travel with WCSC along with access to yoga and pool playing at the senior center. The membership form is on page 5 of this issue. Please consider supporting our center and

thank-you to all who have done so already! We appreciate your support!

Again, the senior center remains temporarily closed to the public, but we do serve you remotely, by calling 622-9230, ext. 101 for Reception; ext.

194 for Outreach/Aging & Disabled Resource Center; and myself at ext.

110. These are the main extensions at the center. Please leave your name and phone number; we are happy to assist you! Our messages are checked daily, Monday through Friday. If you have accidentally left a message at an extension other than these listed, we may not have received your message.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Please follow us on Facebook for news about the senior center along with Medicare updates! I promise you great things will be happening at the center very soon! There are a lot of moving parts to all the positive changes we have in store for the center! We appreciate your patience and we are looking forward to getting back together soon!

Enjoy the sunshine and the beauty of summer! Stay tuned and Be well!

Petersen Health Care A big thank you goes out to Sami Rodriguez, Community Relations Coordinator for Polo Rehabilitation & Health Care, and Rock River Gardens in Sterling, a division of Petersen Health Care, for providing wonderful Bingo prizes. Sami did a fabulous job as our Bingo caller. Thank you, Sami!

Open Mic is Back

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk Happy summer! The season we have all been waiting for! Some exciting news ...The Golden Echo will now be available to you to drive up and pick up in a contactless manner. We have installed an Echo newsstand outside of door No. 3 on the back side of our parking lot. The most recent issue of the Golden Echo will be in that newsstand.

So, please feel free to drive up and snag a copy. This is an electronically monitored secure area, so please know that you will be on camera.

When the center officially reopens (not yet — please be patient), we are pleased to announce that we will be offering meals at the center Monday through Friday in the big room upstairs — but again that will be once we officially re-open. Please be

cords. We are waiting to hear you play a tune, or sing us a song. LCCOA is thrilled to announce our doors are open to welcome you back. Masks and social distancing will still be maintained, but this will not stop our seniors! They will be stomping their feet to the music, and clapping those hands. First performance is at 7 p.m., arrival at 6:30 to get the best seat in the house.

The Passing of a Friend Sondra Victum has been riding our Senior Transportation three times a week for years. We here at LCCOA had grown to love this sweet, kind woman. She never complained about all her illnesses. Even to the very end, our drivers would say “we know Sondra isn’t doing well, but to hear Sondra she was just fine.” Her brother, Willie, played a major role in Sondra’s life; she loved him dearly. Our hearts go out to all of Sondra’s family. We will miss you, dear friend; you are heaven’s gain and our loss.

A Long-Time Member

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.

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POST HOUSE

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

Questions to ask while planning an event at the Post House Ballroom While Covid has put a pause on weddings and special events, the show must go on! A New Year brings us hope and joy while planning events. Let us help you turn the next page of your life. Here are some tips to help make your special day your own: You want your big day to be perfect and memorable for all of your guests. We have talked about the bar and the entertainment in previous issues, now let’s get down to the food!

Food is always a tough decision to make when deciding whether to use a caterer or bringing in your own delicious gourmet food. Here are some helpful tips to help you find the best choice for your day: How many guests will be attending your event?

Don’t forget to check what the capacity is, and the changing regulations from the State.

• Budget – The average percentage of the wedding budget that should be for food is 40%; that being said “what is your budget per guest?” Set your amount per plate, and then decide how you would like to proceed.

• Serving Style — Pre-plated — Buffet — Family Style — Silver Service – Platter to Plate • Cater or bring in your own food to serve

— Catering can be costly, but so worth it!

No prep work or cleanup for the bridal party or family.

— At the LCCOA/ Post House Ballroom you may also bring in your own food to serve. Food that is brought in must be taken out the same day it was brought in. LCCOA/ Post House Ballroom does have all of your dining needs on hand; such as linens, dishes, cups, and silverware.

• Combine food with your “select beverage” — Think about tailoring your select beverage from the bar around your menu • Match foods to match your relationship – this is such a great idea!

— Are you a breakfast couple? How about a cereal bar?

— Was your first date at an ice cream parlor? An Ice Cream Bar sounds yummy!

— Do you fancy the movies? Popcorn bar with butter, and all the fixings!

— Possibilities are endless, be creative and unique!

Good Luck!

Marisa

Sydney and Colby, who had their wedding reception at the Post House, had this say about the venue ... “Post House Ballroom team! Thank you all so much for an amazing venue for our wedding reception! It was a perfect night! Your team was amazingly helpful and created an environment with as little stress as possible. Thank You again for an amazing reception place!”

Photos supplied

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

Outreach services & free phones for hearing impaired Outreach hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

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

ADRC: Call 815-622-9230, ext. 194

Outreach and free phones for hard of hearing/low vision 815-622-9230, ext. 194 Toll-free 888-622-9230, ext. 194

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

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Julie McGrail Richard McGrail Verna Sagmoe Nancy Morrissey

Carol Ortgiesen Bill Wadsworth Eileen Piper

WCSC welcomes members Larry Piper Mary Jane Shark Carl Smith Louise Smith

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. To become a member, fill out the form below.

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 Erie Public Library Odell Public Library, Morrison Anderson Nature Glenda MacLennan Riverbend Food Bank Center-Fulton Joe Fornero Sauk Valley Food Bank John Booker Kroger SCUG Joe Bright Michelle Miller Emily Taylor Karla Burn NIAAA United Way of Sterling Al Campbell Cindy Wadsworth

Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Stephen Szabo 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. The membership form is on page 5 in this edition of the Golden Echo. 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 always appreciate your continued support of our Aging and Disabled Resource Center and we appreciate YOU!

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.

Eileen Piper Sauk Valley Media Good Fellows Viola Township Larry Piper Lee County Clara Harris Joan Schmidt Teen Turf United Way First United Linda Cheeseman Marilyn Cibu Amanda Wike Methodist Church Carol Ann Wilson LCCOA Line Dancers EFSP Terry Christian Paul Wilson Leydig Center Johnson CPA LOTS Warren Reuter Susan Johnson Ben Galantine Dixon Gyro Club Memorial AARP NIAAA Linda Loescher Lynn Miller Joe Robinson Dean Loescher Keith Miller Rusty Schrader Jesse Ware

LCCOA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2021 (JAN. 1-DEC. 31) PLEASE PRINT and return to: Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon IL 61021 DATE_____________________________________________ NAME______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SPOUSE (or second individual)_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE #____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ BIRTHDATE____________________________________ SPOUSE (or second individual) BIRTH DATE_________________________________________________ MEMBERSHIP COSTS – CHECK ONE o $20 – Individual o $35 – Two individuals in the same household o $50 to $199 – Partner 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.

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

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

WCSC MEMBERSHIP FORM

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(PLEASE PRINT. You can mail your check to WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. ) First/Middle/Last Name________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________City, State___________________________________ Zip code____________________ Home phone ______________________________________Cell phone_______________________________________ Email ______________________________________ Date of Birth________________________________________ Gender____________________________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine___________________________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine_________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPE Single $25

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

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

COVID INFO

Make sure you “Mask Up” for public transportation — it’s the law!

Federal law will require the continued use of face masks on all forms of public transportation.

As local COVID-19 restrictions lessen to those individuals who are fully vaccinated, Federal Law will require the use of a face mask while using any public transportation system in the United States. The CDC and Department of Health and Human Services passed a Federal Regulation on February 1, 2021, that enforces the use of face masks to be worn by passengers on all federally funded public transportation vehicles in order to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The Order states that all passengers must continue to wear a mask for the entire duration of their trip; including

awaiting, boarding, traveling on, or disembarking a public transportation vehicle – even if you have been fully vaccinated! The Order also includes wearing a face mask inside a transit facility.

Whiteside County Public Transportation drivers and staff will be strictly enforcing the order for all passengers.

Our goal is compliance, not enforcement. Implementing the mask requirement is now a term of our grant agreements. Federal law requires wearing a mask while on a public transit vehicle, and failure to comply may result in denial of boarding or removal of the vehicle. All non-complaint passengers will be reported to the Director of Transportation.

WCPT appreciates your cooperation and continued support of our transportation system throughout the pandemic. Please do your part to keep our transportation system safe for everyone and travel responsibly.

Remember, we are all in this together, so please #MaskUp!!!

• Make sure that your face mask completely covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly against your face.

• Refusing to wear a mask is a direct violation of federal law; passengers may be subject to penalties under federal law.

• Due to current funding, masks will not be provided to passengers who do not have one.

Can I get COVID after being fully vaccinated?

According to information from the Illinois Department of Public Health …

Vaccines are very effective, but no vaccine protects 100 percent. A very small number of people will get COVID-19, even though they are vaccinated. If someone gets COVID, the vaccine will help prevent severe illness.

You may get COVID-19 even after being vaccinated due to …

• Infection before being vaccinated • Infection a few days after being vaccinated • New variants Although you have been vaccinated, follow these safety guidelines if you have COVID-19, or even suspect you have it: Call a doctor, get tested, wear a mask, check symptoms, wash your hands, stay home and stay away from others.

For more information call 800-8893931.

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

Whiteside County Senior Center 2021 Membership Form

WHAT’S IT ALL MEAN?

GOLDEN ECHO

Decoding those Medicare abbreviations

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

6 WCSC

Ever wonder what that alphabet soup of abbreviations stands for in all those Medicare terms? Here’s a list of some of the more frequently used ones, and what they stand for.

AEP – Annual Election Period ANOC – Annual Notice of Change CMS – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services CNS – Clinical Nurse Specialist CO – Central Office COB – Change of Benefits EOB – Explanation of Benefits MOOP – Maximum Out of Pocket MSN– Medicare Summary Notice QIO – Quality Improvement Organization (formerly known as Peer Review) QMB – Qualified Medicare Beneficiary SLMB – Specified Low-income Medicare Beneficiary

Check out our new Echo newsstand!

If you don’t subscribe to the local newspaper, you can now stop by WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St. in Sterling, and pick up your free edition of the Golden Echo.

It’s located in the back of our building, near door # 3. Please be reminded that our building is currently closed to the public, but that public transportation is still available.

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Join a community that feels like family and feel supported every step of the way.

(815) 362-7921 | www.LibertyCourtSeniorLiving.com

ksbhospital.com Call (815) 285-5603 To Make An Appointment

LCCOA

Jones Funeral Homes

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DIXON

204 S. Ottawa Ave • 288-2241

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303 E Main St. • 857-2611

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3602 E. Lincolnway, (IL Rt. 2), Sterling • 626-4422 WWW.DIXONBYTUTERA.COM

The Post House: A picture-perfect place for a photo Pictured on the stairs of the Post House Ballroom are a group of Sterling High School seniors during a photo op at the Ballroom. The Post House Ballroom is an ideal place to take photos for lasting memories.

AT THE POST HOUSE

Join us for prom night at the Post House The LCCOA 11th annual End-of-Summer Prom will Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, from 7-11 p.m., at the Post House Ballroom, 100 W. Second St. Dixon.

There will be appetizers, dancing, door prizes, entertainment, and fun for all ages — 21-121!

Dress up or down — the choice is yours Who will be this year’s King and Queen?

Will it be YOU? Face masks are required and social distancing will be maintained Cost is $15 in advance. Reservations are required — no ticket sales at the door.

Tables of 4, 6, or 8 will be available.

Questions? Call 815-288-9236

• Post-Surgical Treatment • Secured Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care • Extensive Rehabilitation LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO CARE. CALL 815-456-5022.

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

Ask Us About Our Guaranteed Prearrangement Contracts

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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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

Call Whiteside County Senior Center at 815622-9230, ext. 194, for more information.

July 12 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – ADRC over-the-phone

July 26

assistance

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

July 19

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

WCSC and WCPT will not be conducting business on Monday, July 5, in honor of Independence Day

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.

Activities at the Whiteside County Senior Center will resume in a modified set-up once the Center is able to safely re-open.

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

The LCCOA Outreach Office is open. Call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

July 9 1 p.m. — BINGO! Prizes! Limited seating; by reservation only. Masks must be worn and social distancing will be maintained.

July 30

July 30

1 p.m. — BINGO! Prizes! Limited seating; by reservation only. Masks must be worn and social distancing will be maintained.

6:30-10 p.m. (first singer up at 7 p.m.) — Open Mic Night.

Back by popular demand! Masks will be required and social distancing will be maintained.

PLEASE NOTE: OUTREACH SUPERVISOR SAMANTHA HARAZIN WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL JULY 15TH. 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.

ITAC

ITAC names new executive director

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC), a not-for-profit corporation tasked with serving the deaf and hard of hearing, deaf-blind, and speech impaired community with telecommunications needs, has selected Jeff McNeal as its next Executive Director.

McNeal will succeed the late Trudy Snell, who dedicated over 25 years leading the organization and was a beloved fixture in the community.

McNeal first joined ITAC as a volunteer, working to assist Ms. Snell in organizing and executing Outreach events and services to benefit the deaf and hard of hearing, deaf-blind and speech impaired community. He has been employed by ITAC since 2018 as the Assistant to the Executive Director. He has extensive experience in state government at many levels, including over three decades of work for the Illinois Department of Insurance, Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and other state departments and agencies.

“The ITAC Board of Directors is very pleased to work with Jeff as our new Executive Director and confident that ITAC will be well-positioned for the future under his guidance in the years to come,” said ITAC Board of Directors Chair Joji Aguilar. “Jeff

has a wealth of experience from his successful management career in state government, and also brings a long history of volunteering for, and experience at, ITAC, which will be of great benefit to the Board and the communities ITAC serves.”

Kate Kubey, Chair of the Illinois Telecommunications Access Program (ITAP) Advisory Council added, “... The ITAP Advisory Council is excited to have Jeff McNeal leading ITAC into the future, as we work together to serve this community with ever-changing telecommunications technology.”

As Executive Director, Mr. McNeal will report to ITAC Board of Directors and provide strategic direction, planning, and oversight for all aspects of the not-for-profit, including distribution of assistive telecommunications equipment for the deaf and hard of hearing, deaf-blind, and speech-impaired community, and provision of telecommunications relay and captioned relay service.

DIRECTOR cont’d to page 9

The Ark Encounter and Creation Museum Trip Aug. 11-14, 2021 – 4 days and 3 nights Cost: Starting at $525, based on double occupancy ($50 deposit due at sign-up to reserve your spot) This trip includes a full day at the Ark Encounter. You will be amazed at the massive Ark structure itself, and the 3 floors of teaching exhibits and presentations. This trip also includes a full day at the Creation Museum, where the nearly 150 exhibits take you through biblical history. You can also enjoy the botanical gardens and the planetarium. This trip also includes a visit to the huge U.S. Air Force Museum, the world’s oldest and largest military aviation museum. Walk through the 360 aircraft and missiles, or take to the skies yourself in the Air Force Museum Simulator. Space is limited. Call your Tour Guide, Marisa, at 815-288-9236, for questions or reservations!

Lee County Council on Aging Presents Alaska with Celebrity Cruises Aug. 26-Sept. 3, 2021 — 9 days and 8 nights Last chance — Select cabins still available 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 onboard cocktail party, and 3 sailing perks that can truly make it an all-inclusive vacation! Prices are based on double occupancy, few cabin selections remain. Must call Grand American Tours to book your spot, passports are required and payment is due in full at time of reservation. Call Grand American Tours at 1-800-423-0247 and speak with Kim to book your trip with the Lee County Council on Aging trip package.

Whiteside County Senior Center will be Cruising the Caribbean September 25-October 8

Lee County Council on Aging presents a Trip to the Festival of Trees, A night at the Isle Casino Resort, and a Holiday Cruise on the Celebration Belle!

Nov. 19 & 20, 2021 — 2 days and 1 night Cost: Starting at $239, based on double occupancy ($50 deposit due at sign-up to reserve your spot) This package includes Motorcoach transportation, deluxe overnight accommodations, admission to the Quad Cities Annual Festival of Trees, and an afternoon on the Mighty Mississippi River on board the Celebration Belle! Not to mention the hours and hours one could spend at the Casino!! Space is limited.

Call your Tour Guide, Marisa, at 815-288-9236, for questions or reservations!

Safe travels to all!

WCSC Day Trips will be re-assessed once the center re-opens.

Your safety and wellness is our utmost concern.

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.

ITAC DIRECTOR cont’d from page 9 The Executive Director also determines operating objectives, policies, programming, staffing, and procedures, and manages the daily operations of ITAC and its personnel to ensure that they remain in alignment with ITAC’s mission, directives of the Board of Directors, federal and state law and regulation, and Illinois Commerce Commission orders.

About ITAC

ITAC is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 1987 to implement programs mandated by Section 13-703 of the Illinois Public Utilities Act. These programs include distribution of text telephones, captioned telephones, amplified telephones and other assistive telecommunications devices to persons with hearing and speech disabilities, and provision of a telecommunications relay service which provides a means for individuals using a

TTY or other telecommunications device to communicate over the telecommunications network with a hearing or speaking individual.

ITAC is governed by a Board of Directors including representatives of Illinois local exchange carriers and a representative of the deaf and hard of hearing, deafblind, and speech impaired community.

ITAC is regulated by the Illinois Commerce Commission and has an Advisory Council composed of elected representatives of the State’s deaf, hard-of-hearing, and speech-disabled communities. ITAC partners with 40 Selection Centers throughout the State of Illinois, including Centers for Independent Living and Senior Centers, to provide telecommunications equipment and training to eligible participants.

There is no charge to users for the relay service, or for equipment distributed to eligible participants. The operations are funded by a telephone subscriber line charge.

ITAC can help you amplify your life Amplified phones and Bluetooth devices are available free of charge to those who have an already established (standard) land-line or cellular phone.

This free program is governed by Illinois law and offered through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC).

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

LCCOA is a test center to apply and obtain an amplified device.

Secure your appointment to test the phones and apply with LCCOA at 815-288-9236 — ask for Outreach. No walk-ins will be taken at this time; appointments are required.

Call LCCOA for more details, and learn more about the program at www. itactty.org.

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Upcoming Trips

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July Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

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

July 5 1-2

apricots. FRIDAY: Fish patty, mac & cheese, bun, California-blend vegetables, strawberry applesauce, tartar sauce.

THURSDAY: Sloppy Joe with wheat bun, tator tots, green beans apricots.

FRIDAY: Lemon tilapia, wild rice, peas, dinner roll, fruit cocktail

July 12-16

July 5-9 MONDAY: CLOSED FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY. TUESDAY: Italian chicken salad with greens, carrots, eggs, cucumbers tomatoes, cheese, dinner roll with butter, fruit juice. WEDNESDAY: A) baked chicken quarter, mashed potatoes with gravy, broccoli, dinner roll, peaches B) Roast beef and creamed mushroom.

THURSDAY: Mushroom Swiss burger on bun, buttered red potatoes, baked beans,

MONDAY: Jumbo hot dog on a bun, potato wedges, baked beans, peaches, ketchup/ mustard. TUESDAY: Chicken Caesar salad, greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, Parmesan cheese, dinner roll with butter, fruit juice.

WEDNESDAY: spaghetti with meat sauce, green beans, cauliflower, garlic bread, apricots. THURSDAY: A) hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables, wheat bread, cherry crisp B) Ham/ chicken noodle. FRIDAY: Chicken taco, flour tortilla, lettuce\tomato, Spanish rice with beans, fresh fruit.

July 19-23

July 26-30

MONDAY: Chicken Parmesan pasta with marinara, Sicilian-blend vegetables, dinner roll, diced pears. TUESDAY: Chef salad with greens, turkey & ham, cucumbers,, eggs, tomato, cheese, dinner roll with butter, mandarin oranges.

WEDNESDAY: Polish sausage, sauerkraut, potato wedges, baked beans, chilled applesauce, hot dog bun. THURSDAY: Cheese omelette, sausage patties, blueberry muffin, hot peaches. FRIDAY: A) Pepper steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, wheat bread, pineapple tidbits B) Turkey/vegetable

MONDAY: Hamburger patty, wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend vegetables, diced pears. TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, cheesy potatoes, seasoned green beans, dinner roll, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Baked pork chop, mashed potatoes with gravy, California-blend vegetables, wheat bread, applesauce. THURSDAY: sweet and sour meatballs, fluffy rice, blended vegetables, dinner roll, apple crisp. FRIDAY: A) tropical chicken salad, cucumber slices, croissant, mandarin oranges B) Chicken salad/tomato 8-ounce low-fat milk served with all lunches.

July meals at Whiteside County Senior Center Lunch will not be served until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience.

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

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

July 1-2 MONDAY: Roast pork loin, cheesy potatoes, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. TUESDAY: tuna & noodles, peas, peaches, wheat bread

July 5-9 MONDAY: Site closed for independence day. TUESDAY: sweet & sour chicken. Chinese vegetables, peaches, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes & ham, peas, peaches, wheat

bread. THURSDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, fruit, bun

July 12-16 MONDAY: Beef stew, mixed fruit, cornbread. TUESDAY: chicken casserole, parslied potatoes, creamed corn, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: roast beef, 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), pears, wheat bread

July 19-23 MONDAY: Sloppy Joes, cheesy potatoes, peas & carrots, whole wheat bun. TUESDAY: spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: maple-glazed ham, sweet potatoes, spinach, wheat bread.

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

July 26-30 MONDAY: Hot dogs, oven potatoes, baked beans, whole wheat bun. TUESDAY: apricot chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Macaroni & cheese casserole, green beans, peaches, wheat bread. THURSDAY: roast pork loin, cheesy potatoes, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Tuna & noodles, peas, peaches, wheat bread

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Fares: (within county)

Lee County Council on Aging Senior Transportation — 815-288-9236

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

Our End-of-year Prom will be Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in the beautiful Post House Ballroom For ages 21-121. Appetizers, dancing, entertainment, door prizes. FUN! Dress up or dress down. Who will be King and Queen? 7-11 p.m. Cost: $15 in advance; reservations required — no tickets at the door. Tables of 4, 6, or 8 — and we just added 25 more seats! All attendees must be vaccinated.

Open Mic night returns Friday, July 30!!

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; first singer up 7 p.m.

Bingo is back — twice in July — at LCCOA!!

We are warming up the cage! Friday, July 9, and Friday, July 30, at 1 p.m., BINGO IS HERE AT LCCOA!! We are opening up the room to include more seats!! Seats are available by reservations ONLY. Call LCCOA to reserve your seat at the table!! 815-288-9236. Covid-19 restrictions are still in place — masks are still required.

Line dancing has returned to LCCOA !! Tuesdays at 9a.m. Call us at 815-288-9236.

Covid vaccine info for seniors Call the Health Department at 815-284-3371 to make an appointment to get your Covid-19 vaccinations.

2021 Membership drive continues 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!

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 815-213-0324 to schedule a foot care appointment.

AARP Safe Driving Classes AARP Safe Driving Classes are tentatively scheduled to resume in September. We will post information as we receive it.

SCUG (Sauk Computer User’s Group) July 10 at 1 p.m.

Sauk Computer Users Group will meet via Zoom at 1 p.m. Please email saukcomputerusersgroup@gmail.com for more details.

Shred events TRIAD is coordinating dates for this fall to happen as drive-thru events at the senior center and in Fulton IL. Stay tuned. Updated will be posted here and on Facebook.

TRIAD — Zoom Meeting July 21 at 12:30 p.m.

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.org if you would like to participate.

Vaccine appointments If you need assistance getting scheduled for your Covid-19 vaccine, please call us at 815-622-9230 (reception) and we can assist you.

SENIOR BENEFITS

Discount available for registration sticker The Benefit Access Application, offered through the Illinois Department on Aging, is an online-only application. Upon approval, this application provides a discounted license plate sticker, and if chosen, a Ride Free transit card for fixed-route transportation systems (such as those found in Chicago).

Qualifications: Must be age 65+, or able to prove disability status, and fall 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 ext. 194 to complete your application.

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Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021

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12 OUTREACH

Outreach: What does it mean?

Some common questions that we get asked are, “Does Outreach keep busy?”, “What is Outreach”, and “What does it mean?”

The answers to these questions are: First, yes, we do keep busy. But, most importantly, we are here for YOU! Second, realize that Outreach is a broad term. By Merriam-Webster’s definition, outreach is “the activity or process of bringing information or services to people.” This is not only what, but, who we are; it defines what makes our department and is the heartbeat of both LCCOA and WCSC. We are more than “just” caseworkers: we are a lifeline for so many individuals that face day-today struggles.

We help people on all ends of the spectrum: from those just looking to save a few dollars on a license plate sticker, to those who couldn’t have a vehicle if they didn’t have that same license plate discount.

Outreach is the help that we give to someone who has just lost their whole world when their spouse passes away.

Maybe their partner did everything to ensure that their drug plan premiums and co-pays were kept lower, or that their food stamp benefits stayed current, and now they don’t know where to begin.

Outreach is helping clients to navigate Medicare, or explaining differences between Medicare and Medicaid. It’s assisting them when they’ve been a victim of a scam or helping to sort out junkmail.

Outreach is a sigh of relief from the caregiver whom we assist, by giving them a temporary respite by helping them to receive funding for a homemaker, providing them a much needed mental break for a few hours a week.

Outreach is all of this, and so much more.

Outreach services at LCCOA and WCSC vary, from us simply providing information or referral, to our providing detailed assistance and education. We are SHIP and AIRS certified, ITAC Specialists, NIAAA providers, Medicare Counselors, and Notaries. But, simply put, we are your helpers.

What does all this mean to you?

SHIP Certified – Senior Health Insurance Program is a program designed to allow us to provide free, unbiased Medicare counseling services to you. SHIP services that we help with include education, assistance, comparisons, and enrollments into Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage Plans, and help with all of the “Parts” of Medicare. SHIP is overseen by the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) and is a part of the National SHIP, Senior Health Insurance Assistance Programs. SHIP provides certification through an in-depth training process and ongoing trainings throughout the year in order for us to remain certified as counselors. Both LCCOA and WCSC have SHIP Coordinators in addition to other SHIP certified staff. SHIP provides an entire network of individuals that we can call on for help when we encounter situations outside of our own personal knowledge base, creating an extremely useful tool for us when assisting you. A SHIP certification can be obtained by any willing volunteer who is interested. You can learn more by contacting your county SHIP Coordinator (Samantha at LCCOA and Lindsay at WCSC).

AIRS Certification, as described at https://www.airs.org, AIRS is “a professional credentialing program for individuals working within the I&R sector of human services and is a measurement of documented knowledge in the field of I&R and I&R-A/D reflecting specific competencies and related per-

formance criteria, which describe the knowledge, skills, attitudes and work-related behaviors needed by I&R practitioners to successfully execute their responsibilities”.

I&R stands for Information and Referral. We are certified as CIRSA/D, and this means that we are certified as Community Resource Specialists in Aging and Disabilities. This certification lets you know that we are trained and educated in ways to help you find the best available resources within the Aging and Disabled community. We have the knowledge to direct you to where you need to go or who to contact within our community.

Think 4-1-1, but with a specialty for senior and disabled services.

ITAC Specialist – ITAC stands for the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation. As test centers for this program we are trained to help individuals receive free amplified phones and/or Bluetooth devices that work with cellphones. This helps those who have trouble hearing on their landline or cellular phone. Yearly training and ongoing support help us to be your ally in amplified technology, at no additional cost to you.

NIAAA provider – Our region’s Area Agency on Agency, NIAAA, serves 13 counties. LCCOA and WCSC are 2 of these county providers. NIAAA is our top Granter, and each year our agencies have to complete Grant Proposal Requests through NIAAA’s Grant Funding Opportunities. These requests have to be approved in order to receive our funding. These funds require ongoing documentation, data entry of service, and continual additions of new clients in order to prove the need for funding in our counties.

We have to be able to supply a local match to the grants provided by NIAAA, which is where your dona-

tions directly help to support your agency and the initiatives and services that we offer.

Notary – We accept appointments to notarize your documents. You must provide a valid photo ID and signature must be completed in front of our Notary. Pre-signed documents will not be notarized. Just like all of our services, Notary services are provided free of charge, though donations are always appreciated.

Notarizing a contract does not make it legal. A notary does not read the contract, provide legal advice, or verify that the terms comply with the law. A notary only verifies the person signing is who they say they are by checking proof of identity. ​NOTARIES AT LCCOA AND WCSC ARE NOT ATTORNEYS OR LICENSED TO PRACTICE LAW IN ILLINOIS AND MAY NOT GIVE LEGAL ADVICE OR ACCEPT FEES FOR LEGAL ADVICE. And So Much More – These above listed credentials and services are only a small fraction of the bigger picture. We are here for you. We strive every day to be the person you need us to be. We take time to go over each thing you may qualify for and help you to understand the process. In conversation, we can learn more about you and know what other programs you may be interested in. We do this to help you remain independent and preserve a better quality of life.

Being an Outreach caseworker is not just another job. It’s a career, a choice, a passion, and a way of life. We value each and every person that we come in contact with, and hope that you feel that, when we assist you.

Call your center today to learn more: LCCOA at 815-288-9236 and ask for Outreach, or WCSC at 815-622-9230 ext. 194.

LIFESCAPE’S RSVP

Looking for a way to lend a hand in your community?

Lifescape’s AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) has recently expanded into Lee County. The AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP connects seniors aged 55 and over to a variety of volunteer opportunities within the community. These opportunities allow seniors to showcase their unique skills and talents while cultivating meaningful relationships along the way.

We pride ourselves on offering

diverse opportunities to ensure a positive and enriching experience. Additionally, the RSVP program is flexible, and it is designed to fit the unique needs and interests of each senior.

Opportunities to serve the community range from a few hours to 40 hours a week.

Only interested in helping out with special events? That is great too! We value your time, and we will do everything we can to ensure you have an

enriching and rewarding experience!

We have partnerships with the Lee County Council on Aging, Nachusa Grasslands, United Way, Home of Hope Wellness Center, Salvation Army, Franklin Creek Natural Area and more.

Benefits of being a member of this program include staff support to ensure a rewarding experience, RSVP swag such as T-shirts, water bottles and more, regular updates about events/

ongoing opportunities, and recognition for birthdays along with other special RSVP events. Overall, members of RSVP gain access to an inclusive and supportive community and life-enriching opportunities.

If you are interested in joining the RSVP program in Lee County, or if you have any additional questions, please contact Eliot Huggins, Volunteer Coordinator, at 815-316-0379 or by email at ehuggins@lifescapeservices.org/.