SVM_Golden Echo_072821

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 • AUGUST 2021 • EDITION 8

ctober 6, 2021

Foot care for Senior Citizens (Some restrictions may apply)

Call Karen at Fancy Feet 815-631-5437 COST

$15 in advance Reservations are required — No ticket sales at the door Questions? Call 815-288-9236

Vaccinations and masks are required

Many thanks to LCCOA’s wonderful sponsors for making this year’s Prom possible ...

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

Outreach...................................................... 12 Weekly, Monthly Activities..........................8

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

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director We are here every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. We are waiting for you, so what are you waiting for???

We still have openings for the Creation Museum and Ark. We are leaving on August 11. Give Marisa a call, she would love to take you along on her adventure; there is even a virtual tour of the Ark. It is amazing, you will feel like you are traveling back in time. And watch out for the flood: It will take you under, and pop you back up — what a thrill! My granddaughter said, “Grams that was awesome. Can we do it again?”

August 21 is Prom. Who will be King and who will be Queen? Everyone gets a chance. Your ticket just

might be the lucky one. The evening starts at 7 p.m. with appetizers, followed by music with our DJ, Calvin.

There will be door prizes and a sweets table. Don’t forget, we will have a cash bar. Tickets are $15.

There will be no tickets sold at the door. Call 815-288-9236 and reserve your table.

On August 26, we will celebrate “Women’s Right to Vote.” Lee County Council on Aging is providing a complimentary High Tea for all our women in Lee County. This is an opportunity to have day of sharing, conversations, and reflections of the struggle and successes of our mothers, grandmothers and even ourselves. It is day to exchange stories, and to keep the memory alive of those courageous women who gave of themselves, so we can have the lives we have today. Thank you for our right to vote.

On August 27, we are back! Open Mic is back! We are singing, dancing and having a time of our life. Please

join us, and help us bring the joy of music to all our seniors and residents of Lee County. We need you to make this a great evening.

The Post House Ballroom is just jumping. The calls are flying in. We have had weddings every weekend since May 1, and we have more events to come. Give us a call at 815288-9236 and reserve your date. We are already booking into 2023.

LCCOA is at the end of our Fiscal Year. We would like to take this time to thank all our members, friends, corporations, staff, drivers, and our Board of Directors for giving of yourselves, and making Lee County Council on Aging a place where you belong, a place to call home.

Thank you my friends, for all the heartwarming kind words, cards and conversations you have given to me personally this year. You have truly enriched my life. May God keep you, so we may share more days together.

– Susan

unteer, who happened to be a former employee (friend) of mine and she had shared with me how she lost her father last fall due to Covid and how her family is managing that loss. I had no idea! I got goosebumps! This really hit home with me about how precious life and time truly is! Later that same day I had a knock on the door and it was information about Grief Share support group. I will be connecting her with this group and sharing the information with you in the Special Events Section.

We have had to face several staffing challenges, as many employers have had during the pandemic and are still facing today. Our building remains temporarily closed to the public — but our staff continues to assist your remotely. THANK YOU for your patience as we transition through our staffing changes! We

want to have a solid foundation of staff ready to serve you when we re-open, so we can be intentional about our hospitality, and our center can be the best it can be!

We have some exciting news! We will be having an event in September! Pre-registration will be required. Details will be announced in the next issue of the Golden Echo.

Our center tentatively plans to re-open to the public on October 4!

We know that our county is 40% fully vaccinated and we will continue to follow the CDC, IDOA and our local health department recommendations regarding the Delta variant. When we do re-open, masks will be required at all times while in the building – no exceptions.

Beginning October 4, Outreach will be by appointment only (face to face). Lunches will be served Monday through Friday 11a.m.-noon by Golden Meals. Please refer to the additional information I have shared in this Echo regarding how lunches will work, as the process will be different than what you are accustomed to. It may take us a while to get acquainted with the new processes

but I assure you, it will be worth it! I am so very excited that you will be receiving a nutritional meal at a very, very affordable price!

We are planning to re-open our Food Pantry very soon as well – as a drive-thru/contactless experience.

Please stay tuned for dates and information in the next edition of the Echo.

In the meantime, we will be working on training and staff development until October 4 when we can all be together again! Please continue to follow us on FaceBook and in the Echo for updated events as time and days of events may have shifted from what you are familiar with. Regular activities will resume gradually. As I have assured you all along, I will keep you updated the best I can.

Our Outreach Department — (ADRC) Aging and Disable Resource Center is currently available to serve you remotely. Please call 815- 622-9230 XT. 194 for Outreach.

Remember to PAUSE ... and be grateful!

We look forward to seeing you in October!

By Susan Lawler August is here, and we have wonderful events planned for our seniors. To start off the month we have Bingo on August 6, and for those who have been attending, they know we always have a surprise gift.

Last month we had Easter eggs filled with money. You will never know what we have in store, but we are sure you will love it. Sami Rodriquez has been our Bingo caller and she has brought laughter to our building.

We have truly missed hearing the sounds of our seniors enjoying life.

Line Dancing is back! Put on your boots, or dancing shoes, and come on down to a morning filled with exercise, conversation and friendship.

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk As I write this, we have just celebrated Independence Day, and for most of you, we were able to safely gather for an outdoor barbeque or fireworks celebration. I hope you got to gather with family and friends or loved ones that you haven’t seen in a while and I am happy for you as I know this filled a void for many of you! As I age I realize that family isn’t always blood! A recent find on FaceBook was this Attitude of Gratitude; PAUSE for just a second. A moment. And be grateful. Even if life isn’t perfect. But thankful for the life you get to live. For the stories. For the adventure. And for those you are blessed to love. Pause.

Recently, as I was helping deliver meals for Feed the Children, (normally, Luis has been doing this — Thank you, Luis), I ran into a vol-

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

Winter, spring, summer or fall, couples are making The Post House their own for their special day The Post House Ballroom has been buzzing with weddings ever since the state opened up.

May 1 was our first wedding since the reopening and we have had weddings each weekend.

Courtney and Ian chose the Post House Ballroom two years ago, just waiting for their special day. This couple has started a trend — they wanted a fall wedding, and they were not waiting any longer. Their venue was beautiful, and the happy couple was thrilled with their event. We now have a Christmas wedding coming up at the end of summer, and a spring wedding in the winter. The Team here at PHB love it. These are truly the modern couples, thinking outside the box.

So whether it is spring, summer, fall or winter, don’t think of the month you want, or how you want to celebrate — who says you can’t have a Luau wedding in winter? We are having one here at The Post House. We have always said “Make It Your Own.” Thank you, Courtney and Ian, for being the trend setters. We wish you both great happiness.

– The Post House Ballroom Team

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.

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

A place for all seasons

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Robert Thomas Evelyn Thomas Lenore Hartman

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.

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Dorothea Long Bev & Ken Oller

Frank & Johanna Berman James Dillow

Diana & Gary Sinderman Gary & Linda Koser

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.

Chip Schrader Viola Township Joan Schmidt Linda Cheeseman Pamela Nelson Ricky Nelson

Jesse Ware Paul Wilson Carol Ann Wilson Keith Miller Lynn Miller Eileen Piper

Larry Piper Teen Turf LCCOA Line Dancers Leydig Center Susan Johnson Rusty Schrader

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

NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Terry Christian LOTS

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.

AARP Tax Volunteers Alzheimers Association Andresen Nature Center Al Campbell Cindy Wadsworth Erie Public Library

Emily Taylor Glenda MacLennan Golden Meals Janice Bell Joe Fornero John Booker

Karla Burn Lifescapes

NICIL Odell Public Library Riverbend Food Bank Rusty Schrader

Luis Velazquez Michelle Miller NIAAA

Sauk Valley Media SCUG TRIAD University of IL Extension United Way of Sterling

Sauk Valley Food Bank

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 Cindy Gabany Roberta Lemoine

LaDonna Groshans, Vice Chair

Kristin Carlson, Secretary 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

FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM

Do you love kids? Do you have at least 5 hours a week to spare? You should become a Foster Grandparent.

Classroom grandparents are needed more than ever to help children catch up on learning due to COVID 19. You would assist by listening to children read, listening to them count, helping them problem solve, and just being a friend.

An informational meeting will be held at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 21 at the Whiteside County Community Center.

Current volunteers say that the hugs they receive are the best reward,

but not the only reward. Foster Grandparents receive a stipend pay of $3 per hour that does not count as income, 20 paid days off, 15 days’ holiday pay, plus your birthday off with pay and other compensation when schools are closed. Each site provides a lunch-time meal (which is Grandma Virginia’s favorite part of the program.)

Grandparents also receive ongoing recognition and training. During COVID, volunteers were given a free tablet and learned how to attend Zoom meetings. Grandma Myrna

said because of this she was able to conduct her annual checkup with Mayo Clinic via Zoom instead of having to travel and spend the night in a motel.

Grandma Judy says the best part is the presents she receives when she attends a training event. Volunteers receive formal recognition also.

Grandma Midge was honored by the Rock Falls Chamber with the Shoulder to the Wheel award and the Governor’s award for her 25 years of volunteering in the program. Serve Illinois has recognized Grandpa Ron

and Grandma Santos with Volunteer of the Week recognition. Most recently Grandma Ruth was recognized by the National Association for being one of the longest serving Foster Grandparents in the nation.

We currently need 11 more volunteers for the upcoming school year.

You are never too old to give back to the community, but you must be at least 55 to join!

Call Susie Welch at 815-625-7830 ext. 610 for more information or join us Oct. 21 at the WCSC for a free, no obligation informational meeting.

Whiteside County Senior Center 2021 Membership Form (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 (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPE Single $25 Couple: $35 (two people residing in same household) Spouse’s Name_______________________________________________ Cell phone__________________________________ Date of birth___________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________ Please make checks payable to: Whiteside County Senior Center EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ SPOUSE’S EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ Thank you for being part of our Senior Center — The place where you enter as a friend and leave as family!

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

Classroom Grandparents needed to work with kids

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From this

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

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Look how far we have come!

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KSB Proudly Welcomes

D R. L ORI C UDONE

Sprucing up the Senior Center LCCOA is so grateful to the hard-working ladies from the Rock River Garden Club. These dedicated women planted flowers, pulled weeds and spread bark to enhance the beauty of Lee County Council on Aging’s historic building.

What a treat!

This photo was sent in by one of our riders. He wanted to thank LCCOA and Lifescape for providing this amazing food box. LCCOA partnered with Lifescape to deliver 100 food boxes to our seniors and disabled in Lee County.

EAR, NOSE & THROAT Dr. Lori Cudone

- Pediatric ENT Care - Oral Cavity & Throat Disorders - Speech & Swallowing - Allergies - Thyroid & Parathyroid - Sinus Disease - And Much More

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

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

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

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

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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.

Signs of life returning to the Lee County Council on Aging Senior Center! Hopefully, this space will increase each month, with more activities. Just because you don’t see a certain activity, does NOT mean it’s never coming back — check this space each month!!

LCCOA Outreach Office open, by appointment Call 815-288-923.

Bingo!

Friday, August 6 at 1 p.m.

Prizes! Limited seating – by reservation only. Masks must be

worn and social distancing will be maintained.

Line Dancing at LCCOA Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

Upstairs in the Ballroom. Call 815-288-9236 for more info.

LCCOA End-of-Summer Prom Saturday, August 21 from 7-11 p.m. Dancing, DJ, appetizers, and FUN!! Who will be King and Queen?? Tickets are $15 per person.

No tickets sold at the door!! All tickets must be purchased in advance! Vaccinations and masks required. Call 815-288-9236 to reserve yours.

LCCOA is Hosting “A Women’s Right To Vote” High Tea Thursday, Aug. 26 at 1 p.m.

At the Post House Ballroom, 100 W. Second St., Dixon. Please come for a day of sharing, conversations, and reflections on the struggles, and successes of all women. Masks are required.

Open Mic Night Friday, August 27 All are welcome at our monthly Open Mic Night here at LCCOA! Doors open at 6:30 p.m., first singer up at 7 p.m. Event lasts until 10 p.m. Mask are required!

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.

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

There is a special event coming in September; details to come in the next issue of Golden Echo.

GOODFELLOWS OF LEE COUNTY

Sign-up dates set for Christmas Giveway Goodfellows of Lee County will offer sign-up dates for its 2021 Family Christmas Giveaway. Each Christmas season, Goodfellows of Lee County distributes gifts and food for families in need.

Families can sign up for this year's giveaway at the following locations ...

Lee County Council on Aging 100 W. Second St., Dixon

Tuesday, Sept. 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Masks required to attend.

Thursday, Sept 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Masks required to attend.

Church of the Brethren 121 W. North St. Franklin Grove Saturday, Sept. 11 from 6 a.m. to

1 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 18 from 6: a.m. to 1 p.m.

Teen Turf 235 W. Main St. Amboy

Building raffle Want to take part in the 2021 GoodFellows of Lee County Building Fund

Raffle? Please help this wonderful organization reach its goal. Tickets are $20 each, with the drawing at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 25 at Dixon Riverfront City Market. For tickets call: Clara Harris at 815-943-5135, Linda Erisman at 815-535-1689, Janet Bushman at 815-973-3204, or Mary Kathryn Stenzel at 815-440-8194

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.

SPECIAL EVENT

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Cruising the Caribbean Sept. 25-Oct. 8 Safe travels to all!

Call Glenda at 815-441-4124 with any questions. She will be coordinating a group meeting for all travelers.

Sponsored by SCUG. Day Trips for WCSC will be re-assessed in the fall. Your safety and wellness is our utmost concern.

Lee County Council on Aging Presents The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum Trip Aug. 11-14, 2021 — 4 days and 3 nights Cost: Starting at $525, based on double occupancy; $50 deposit due upon sign-up to reserve a 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 815288-9236, for questions or reservations!

Lee County Council on Aging Presents Alaska with Celebrity Cruises LAST CHANCE – SELECT CABINS STILL AVAILABLE 9 days / 8 nights – Aug. 26-Sept. 3, 2021 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 allinclusive 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. Your Group Leader is Samantha Harazin.

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 & 1 night Cost: Starting at $329, bases on double occupancy; $50 deposit due upon sign-up to reserve a 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!

Join LCCOA for tea and suffrage The Lee County Council on Aging cordially invites you to participate in a complementary High Tea to celebrate women’s right to vote.

Please come for sharing, reflections, and conversations on the struggles and success of all women.

The event will be at the Post House Ballroom, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, beginning at 1 p.m. Aug. 26.

Please RSVP by Aug. 20 at 815-288-9236.

HEARING HELP

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 and WCSC are testing centers to apply and obtain an amplified device.

Secure your appointment to test the phones and apply with LCCOA at 815-288-9236, or WCSC at 815-622-9230 — ask for Outreach. No walk-ins will be taken at this time; appointments are required.

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

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

Upcoming Trips

August Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

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

Aug. 2-6

Aug. 9-13

MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, peas, whole grain dinner roll, applesauce. TUESDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, peas, whole grain dinner roll, applesauce. 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: A) crispy fish sandwich, whole grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, peas, pineapple tidbits, B) Turkey/ minestrone

MONDAY: Jumbo hot dog, whole grain hot dog bun, creamy coleslaw, baked beans, hot cinnamon apples, ketchup/ mustard. TUESDAY: Sweet/ sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry veggies, whole grain dinner roll, apricots. 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: Hot ham & cheese, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, buttered corn, applesauce.

Aug. 16-20 MONDAY: BBQ riblet, whole

grain wheat bun, au gratin potatoes, country mix vegetables, diced pears. TUESDAY: Chef salad with greens, turkey & ham, cucumbers, eggs, tom, cheese, whole grain dinner roll\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: vegetable fritter, sausage patties, cheesy hash browns, whole grain apple muffin, Mandarin oranges.

meat sauce, Italian blend vegetables, whole grain garlic bread, hot applesauce. WEDNESDAY: A) Meatloaf, mashed pot/gravy, glazed carrots, whole grain dinner roll, fruited Jell-O, B) Liver & onions. THURSDAY: Chicken ala king, with whole grain buttermilk , biscuit, broccoli, Mandarin oranges. FRIDAY: Tilapia & garlic butter, wild rice, peas, whole grain dinner roll, fruit cocktail.

Aug. 30-31 MONDAY: BBQ chicken breast, whole grain dinner roll , cheesy potatoes, green beans, pineapple tidbits. TUESDAY: Sloppy Joe, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, broccoli, diced pears.

Aug. 23-27 MONDAY: Cranberry chicken, buttered potatoes, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears. TUESDAY: baked ziti, with

8-ounce, low-fat milk served with all lunches.

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

Aug. 2-6

Aug. 9-13

MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, glazed carrots, apple sauce, wheat bread. TUESDAY: chicken noodle casserole, (vegetables in casserole), fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes & ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Ham steak with maple glaze, sweet potatoes, spinach, wheat bread.

FRIDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, fruit, bun.

MONDAY: Beef stew, cornbread. applesauce. TUESDAY: chicken Alfredo/pasta, spinach, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Baked cod in lemon butter, augratin potatoes, Lima beans, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Tater tot casserole, (veggies in casserole), fruit, wheat bread.

Aug. 16-20 MONDAY: Sloppy Joes, oven

potatoes, peas and carrots, bun.

TUESDAY: Spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steaks, mashed potatoes, cream corn, wheat bread.

THURSDAY: Turkey tetrazzini, Italian green beans, applesauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, green beans, wheat bread.

Aug. 23-27 MONDAY: chili dog, oven potatoes, baked beans, whole wheat bun. TUESDAY: Baked chicken,

mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Beef and noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Roast pork loin, cheesy potato casserole, mix vegetables, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Tuna & noodles, peas, fruit, wheat bread.

Aug. 30-31 MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, glazed carrots, applesauce, whole wheat bun. TUESDAY: Chicken noodle casserole, (veggies in casserole), fruit, wheat bread.

Congregate meals coming to WCSC Golden Meals will begin offering congregate meals Oct. 4 at the Whiteside County Senior Center for those ages 60 and older. Golden Meals are approved by a registered dietitian to meet least 1/3 of the daily nutritional requirements for adults.

To take part on the meals ...

• You must register or be previously enrolled with Golden Meals. You may do this by calling 815-626-4442. Each participant will be required to complete a client information form the first time you attend. When the form is complete, you will receive a card that will show you are registered and will only need to sign in the next time you attend.

• No carry-outs allowed (due to this being a federally funded Congregate Meal program) — no exceptions. If you need home-delivered meals, Golden Meals can absolutely provide that. Please call 626-4442 to set up home delivery.

• LINK cards will be accepted as payment • Meals will be $3 donation for people 60 years and older, or a $6 donation for ages 59 and under.

• Golden Meals will handle all payments.

• All meals include bread and butter, drink (milk, coffee or water) and sometimes dessert.

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.

Reservations are required and the cost is $15 in advance.

No tickets at the door. All attendees must be vaccinated.

We have just added 25 more seats!! Tables of 4, 6, or 8 are available.

Our End-of-Year Prom

LCCOA to hold “A Women’s Right To Vote” High Tea

Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021 from 7-11 p.m.

This year’s prom will be in the beautiful Post House Ballroom. There will be appetizers, dancing, and lots of fun! Dress up or dress down. There will also be entertainment and door prizes. Who will be King and Queen?

Thursday, Aug. 26 at 1 p.m.

Please come to the Post House Ballroom for a day of sharing, conversations, and reflections on the struggles and successes of all women. Masks are required.

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.

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

SCUG (Sauk Computer Users Group) August 14 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 event coming in October TRIAD is coordinating dates for WCSC to host a drive-thru SHRED event again. Stay tuned. Updates will be posted here and on Facebook.

TRIAD – Zoom Meeting August 18 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.

Fancy Feet Foot Clinic October 6 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Please call Karen at 815-631-5437 to set up an appointment. Masks will be mandatory — no exceptions. Covid pre-screening questionnaires will also be required to be completed.

Grief Share support group This 13-week seminar includes video, group discussion and a workbook. For more information, please call 815-200-9278 and leave your name and number. More information also is available at www.griefshare.org. Note: Although WCSC does not endorse any one specific support group, these meetings do take place outside of the senior center and we felt it was important to share this resource due to many families experiencing the loss of a loved one during the pandemic. Local funeral homes and churches may also provide grief support groups.

Weddings & Engagements Birthdays & Births Class reunions & graduations Baptisms & Confirmations Honor rolls & Sporting recognition Retirements & more Want to celebrate those special occassions? CALL 815-632-

IN TUESDAY’S TELEGRAPH AND DAILY GAZETTE

2566 or E-MAIL celebration@ saukvalley.com to learn how

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Jul 28, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

12 OUTREACH

Medicaid-Medicare Alignment Initiative explained Happy August! This month WCSC and LCCOA Outreach are wanting to feature information on the Medicaid-Medicare Alignment Initiative as it began its statewide expansion as of July 1, 2021. We recognize that this is a very confusing expansion and are hoping to help you to better understand what is happening if you fall into this Medicaid category.

Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI) Expansion If you are a Medicare beneficiary who also receives full Medicaid benefits, you may have, in recent weeks (or weeks to come) received a letter in regards to the MMAI expansion, and what your options are. Full Medicaid benefits means that you have Medicaid without a spend-down. For those that have either a monthly spend-down or asset spend-down (with Medicaid), you would not qualify for the MMAI program and should not receive a letter.

This rollout will have passive enrollments with start dates beginning September 1, though you may opt-in sooner.

MMAI is a joint initiative of the Federal and State governments to improve quality of care for individuals having Medicare Parts A, B and D (prescription coverage) and full Medicaid benefits. It merges Medicare and Medicaid coverage under one Managed Care Organization (MCO). MMAI’s are meant to streamline your benefits and improve your quality of care, creating one health plan responsible for coordinating all medical services, prescription coverage, behavioral health services, as well as social and supportive service needs. It gives you just one ID card, one phone number to call & one place that coordinates both Medicare & Medicaid care.

(prescription drug plan), and Medicaid benefits, but the difference is your longterm support services would be covered under a Managed Care Organization for ONLY the Long-Term Service and Support benefit.

For more direct information, contact the Health Choice Illinois Hotline at 877912-8880

If you choose to keep this coverage you will be dis-enrolled from your Part D plan automatically and would begin receiving the prescription coverage offered through the MMAI plan you are enrolled into.

Keep in mind that enrollment into a MMAI plan is NOT mandatory, and opting out is an option at any time. If you happened to be auto-enrolled into a MMAI plan, and you would like to go back to Original Medicare- Parts A & B, your drug plan (Part D), and (fee-for-service/traditional) Medicaid, you can.

There are currently 5 MMAI plan options offered in Illinois, but not all are available in all counties just yet.

On the flip-side, if you opted out of MMAI enrollment before July 1st (or at any time before September) and now you would like to get into a MMAI plan, you can.

For more information on the MMAI initiative, to opt out of MMAI, or to

enroll into a plan, contact the Healthcare and Family Services Hotline directly at 877-912-8880. You can also visit the Health Choice Illinois enrollment website for more information and to compare MMAI plans, http://enrollhfs.illinois.gov/choose/compare-plans Opting out of MMAI if you have Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) For those who have Medicare and full Medicaid (not Medicaid Spenddown), and also receive long-term care or a waiver program (such as services through Lifescape’s Community Care Program or any home, community or facility based care), you have options.

You can either go with a MMAI plan, or if you decide to opt out of MMAI, you MUST be enrolled into a Managed LongTerm Services and Supports (MLTSS) plan. With MLTSS, you can keep your Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or Medicare Advantage Plan, your Part D

As a reminder, our staff at WCSC and LCCOA are not affiliated with the Department of Human Services (DHS), Healthcare and Family Services (HFS), or any of the other State or Federal organizations that govern these programs. We are non-profit entities that are educated through SHIP to help with understanding the basics of these programs. We cannot refer or recommend any company over another, cannot decide whether you should go with a MMAI plan or opt out-these are your decisions. All direct and personal information regarded to your specific case must be handled with these other organizations, as we do not have access to your personal records under DHS or HFS. We will do the best we can to help you, and we request that you save your paperwork, letters and any communications that you receive on this matter, as this can help us to help you. We always encourage you to hang on to all documents sent and received with any organization you are obtaining assistance from.

You can call to schedule an appointment to talk with one of SHIP trained staff members. Give your Outreach Department a call if you have any questions on this, or other Medicare or Medicaid related topics. WCSC at 815-6229230 ext. 194, and LCCOA at 815-288-9236 ask for Outreach.

COVID

Free legal HELP is available for people impacted by Covid Millions of tenants throughout Illinois face a possible eviction when the moratorium ends by the end of July 2021. Thousands more face an abrupt and significant loss of income after the illness or death of a family member due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic began, there have been efforts to provide relief to those who have lost their income. As several of those relief efforts have ended or will end soon, legal professionals are anticipating a record number of evictions, foreclosures, and debt lawsuits.

COVID HELP (Housing and Economic Loss Prevention) is a statewide initiative that provides free legal guid-

ance and representation to those experiencing common legal problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Illinois residents can access this free legal assistance 24/7 at COVIDhelpillinois.org, from their smartphones, tablets or computers.

COVID HELP offers a team of virtual legal assistants to help people with their most pressing legal issues. Created by a team of nonprofit lawyers throughout Illinois, COVID HELP assists with: • Evictions, foreclosures, and other housing issues • Personal debt and bankruptcy • Employment and unemployment • Wills, estates and guardianships.

Disabled? Need help finding Covid vaccines?

The Health and Human Services Dept. has launched a hotline to improve access to COVID-19 vaccines for people with disabilities The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) connects callers to information about how to access the COVID-19 vaccine and related supports for people with disabilities. DIAL connects callers to vaccine sites and provides information related to barriers to vaccination by referring callers to local and national disability resources.

Go to acl.gov/dial, call 888-677-1199 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., or e-mail DIAL@n4a.org for more information.

Many legal problems are not simple and with the law changing often, people need up-to-date information.

COVID HELP and its virtual legal assistants were created by a collaboration of CARPLS Legal Aid, the Lawyers

Trust Fund, the Lawyers’ Committee for Better Housing, The Chicago Bar Foundation, the Westside Justice Center, Illinois Legal Aid Online, and many other organizations providing free legal services around the state.