SVM_Golden Echo_082521

The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Transportation, Lee-Ogle Transportation System, Whiteside County Senior Center, and Whiteside County Public Transportation will be closed Monday, Sept. 6, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. We will re-open Tuesday, Sept. 7.

Golden Echo

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

VOLUME 14 • SEPTEMBER 2021 • EDITION 9

SHRED EVENT

OCTOBER 13 | 10 A.M.-2 P.M.

Whiteside County Senior Center

It’s time to schedule your Medicare Part D appointment

OCTOBER 14 | 10 A.M.-2PM Erie Police Department

Drive up and drop off 2-box limit per household

Open enrollment for Medicare Part D begins

For more information, go to ILLINOIS SMP 1-800-699-9043 www.illinoissmp.org

OCT. 15

mpare If you are wanting to co her plans, your current plan to ot n you must do so betwee

OCT. 15DEC. 7

Made possible through a grant from Age Options, and sponsored by ...

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, Aug 25, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

feeling real lucky you just might win your trip back at the Isle Casino Resort. Give us a call at 815288-9236.

Bingo is back

By Susan Lawler September has arrived! We had a long hot summer. We here at LCCOA are feeling sad summer is coming to an end. Lee County Council on Aging didn’t let the weather hinder a wonderful, funfilled summer. We had so many events at The Post House Ballroom.

We were hopping with weddings, and the celebration of the new owners of the Reagan family home.

LCCOA was honored with the Young America’s, Gov. Walker and members of the Reagan family — and on top of these events, the Prom and Open Mic were great successes.

Trips and more trips

LCCOA had two amazing trips.

The Creation Museum, and the Ark Encounter was a group of 25, small, but just right for everyone to spread out on motor coach to maintain social distancing. The Alaskan Cruise, what can I say; it was Alaska; who doesn’t like a cruise, and seeing all the adventures of Alaska. Memories were made this past summer; so let’s make some more! We have a wonderful trip coming up for the Fall. The Festival of Trees, Celebration Belle trip; the cost is $239 for members and $259 for non-members. If you are

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk As I write this during the second week of August, many families are thinking of Back-To-School, whether it be elementary, high school or maybe you are sending your child or grandchild off to college? I remember those days….it was so exciting setting up a college dorm room, but so hard saying good bye when it was time to leave! Once of the hardest times in my life for sure!

We have all had to face some hard times during the pandemic.

The Senior Center has 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!

Our center tentatively plans to re-open to the public on October 4th! We know that our county is 43% fully vaccinated (as of August 9th metrics) and we will continue to follow the CDC, IDOA and our local Health Dept. recommendations regarding the Delta variant. When we do re-open — Masks will be required at all times while in the building – No exceptions. Covid questionnaires will need completed upon entry as well.

Beginning October 4th, Outreach will be by appointment only (face to

LCCOA loves the sound of laughter! Our Bingo players are truly enjoying themselves and the prizes have been amazing this year; with donations from Good Fellows, Sami Rodriguez and Terry Christians, our Bingo players have gone home with great prizes. So if you have nothing better to do, come on out and enjoy a game or two of Bingo.

Butterfly Garden

LCCOA has been promising you a sign for the Butterfly Garden; on Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m., there will be a dedication of our new sign for Joe Rudolphi, Tom Lawless, Donna Missman, Warren Reuter and Patty Frey. Please join us for a celebration of our friends’ well-lived lives.

Thank you is not enough

We had 22 potential Nashville singers at our last Open Mic. So, if you are ready for Nashville, or just love to sing and listen to music, come on down to LCCOA on Sept.

24; our doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

For those who are new to Open Mic, just follow, the sounds of your fellow crooners. We are waiting for you, so don’t be shy!

There are not enough words to express our gratitude for the generous donation of the Dixon Community Trust. This compassionate organization has donated $5,000 toward the cost of our new air conditioner and furnaces. Thank you — thank you for supporting LCCOA, and all the seniors of Lee County; without your continuing assistance, LCCOA would not be able to exist.

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

– Susan

face). Unfortunately, we will not be able to accept walk ins. You must call Outreach at 622-9230, Ext. 194 to schedule an appointment.

Also- beginning October 4th Lunches will be served Monday through Friday 11 a.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 or you can use your LINK card to pay for your congregate meals here beginning October 4th.

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

Dates and times of distribution may change- I will keep you updated.

Please stay tuned for dates and information in the next edition of the ECHO. All our Volunteers and Staff will be receiving training in September to work through the

changes with our pantry.

In the meantime, we will be working on training and staff development until October 4th 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.

We will be getting our center ready for October, with a few changes to our space and with some different schedules, but instead of saying “good bye” like we did to our college kiddos- you will be saying HELLO to a few new faces you when you walk through our doors in October.

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

We look forward to seeing you in October!

Be Well!

Open Mic

Golden Echo published monthly by Sauk Valley Media, 113-115 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021, in cooperation with the Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center.

Golden Echo disclaims any liability for any advertisements published herein and in no way endorses or guarantees these ads.

Press releases of interest to seniors will be accepted at 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021; or 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. Deadline for submission is the 15th of each month.

Golden Echo does not discriminate in admission to programs or treatment or employment in programs or activities in compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act; the U.S. Civil Rights Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; the Age Discrimination Act; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; and the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you have a right to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Aging. For information, call 800-252-8966 (Voice & TDD), or contact the director of Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021 or telephone 815-288-9236; or Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081 or 815-622-9230.

The senior centers do not require duration of residency or citizenship as a condition of participation in any services or programs funded by the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Residency or citizenship may be a requirement for other programs that the senior centers may provide assistance with in application or accessing of same. Services are made available, in part, with funds provided under Title III-B of the Older American Act, and the Illinois General Revenue Funds, through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. We are a United Way-funded agency.

POST HOUSE

Former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, a second guest speaker at the Post House Ballroom’s luncheon for the Young America’s Foundation, shared his experiences and wealth of knowledge — an inspiration to all who attended.

The Post House Ballroom, a timeless beauty in a historic setting, is a perfect setting for any occasion.

The beautiful historic Post House Ballroom hosted a luncheon July 23 for 142 students, and families from the Young America’s Foundation during a 2-day conference, “American Exceptionalism: The Education of Ronald Reagan and the Enduring Promise of the American Dream.” Michael Reagan (speaking, above), son of President Ronald Reagan, was one of the guest speakers and shared wonderful stories of his father and his memories of his childhood.

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, Aug 25, 2021

An exceptional day at the Post House

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Betsy Foy David Foy Thomas Cartwright Debra Spangler Ron Weidman Evon Weidman Edward Murphy Vickie Dickson Lucy Burke Robert Stevens Robert Thomas Evelyn Thomas Anita Contreras

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Sharon Pritchard William McLemore Velma Quinn Julie Logan James Eshelman Lori Lowe Ruth Brylski Jane Faber Myra Nelson June Gascoigne 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.

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.

David Foy Betsy Foy John Cover Niceta Cover Chip Schrader

Dixon Community Trust Jesse Ware Eileen Piper Larry Piper Teen Turf LCCOA Line Dancers

Rusty Schrader Lee County United Way Amanda Wike Johnson CPA Franklin Grove and Oregon Living Rehabilitation Centers

Ben Galantine NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Terry Christian

LOTS Scott Brinkmeier Ruby Hernandez Cory Kanzler Chelsea Halinski

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 Anderson Nature Center – Fulton Charles Atchley John Booker Joe Bright Judy Stokes

Karla Burn Al Campbell Erie Public Library Glenda MacLennan Joe Fornero

Kroger Michelle Miller NIAAA Odell Public Library in Morrison Riverbend Food Bank Rusty Schrader

Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG Emily Taylor United Way of Sterling Luis Velazquez Cindy Wadsworth

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

Cheryl Smith

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, Aug 25, 2021

Classroom Grandparents needed to work with kids

5

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

Need a ride?

Call Whiteside County Public Transportation at 815-625-RIDE (7433) 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday We love sharing these photos of the buses from many years back!

Look how far we have come!

QUALITY PHYSICAL THERAPY at

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

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LCCOA

On Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m., there will be a dedication of the Butterfly Garden Sign for Joe Rudolphi, Patty Frey, Tom Lawless, Warren Reuter, and Donna Missman.

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

A dedication to friends gone, but not forgotten ...

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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Weekly and 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!!

SENIOR BENEFITS

Discount available for registration sticker

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

Please note: Masks are required in all hallways and common areas at LCSC.

Line dancing Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

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

Table crafter Thursdays at 1 p.m.

Crafters grace our tables with all types of arts and crafters. Masks are required.

Mexican Train Dominos Players Fridays at 1 p.m.

Games begin at 1 p.m. All are welcome. Masks are required

Dedication of the Butterfly Garden sign Wednesday, Sept. 22,. at 10 a.m.

For Tom Lawless, Joe Rudolphi, Warren Reuter, Patty Frey, and Donna Missman

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 815-6229230 ext. 194 to complete your application.

Open Mic Night Friday, September 24 All are welcome at our monthly Open Mic Night!Here at LCCOA! The event runs from 6:30-10 p.m., with the the first singer up at 7 p.m. Mask are required

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 815622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND. Activities at the Center will resume in a modified manner beginning Oct. 4.

Please contact Beth at extension 110 if your group is interested in gathering at the Center.

Yoga Thursdays 10 a.m.

Membership required. Limit 8 persons. Masks mandatory

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

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 $239 for members and $259 for non-members.

Prices based on double occupancy 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!! a $50 deposit is due upon sign up to reserve your spot.

Space is limited. Please call 815-288-9236 for questions or reservations!

WCSC trips note ...

Day Trips for WCSC will be re-assessed in the fall. We know people are excited to do group travel, however, your safety and wellness is always our utmost concern.

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.

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9 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

Upcoming Trips

HEARING HELP

September Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

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

Sept. 1-3 WEDNESDAY: Baked chicken quarter, mashed potatoes with gravy, coin carrots, dinner roll, peach cobbler. THURSDAY: mushroom Swiss burger on bun, buttered red potatoes, baked beans, diced peaches. FRIDAY: Fish patty with tartar, wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blended vegetables, strawberry applesauce, tartar sauce.

Sept. 6-10 MONDAY: Closed for Labor Day — No delivery. TUESDAY: Chicken patty, wheat bun, peas & carrots, potato wedges, pineapple. WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti with meat sauce, green beans, cauliflower, garlic bread, apri-

cots. THURSDAY: a.) Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes with gravy, winter blend vegetables, wheat bread, cherry crisp B.) Ham/chicken noodle. FRIDAY: Cheesy beef taco, flour tortilla, lettuce\tomato, Spanish rice\ beans, fresh fruit, taco sauce.

Sept. 13-17 MONDAY: Chicken Parmesan pasta with marinara, Sicilian-blend vegetables, dinner roll, diced pears. TUESDAY: Sausage gravy with biscuit, hash browns, 2 sausage patties, orange juice.

WEDNESDAY: Polish sausage, sauerkraut, potato wedges, baked beans, chilled applesauce, hot dog bun. THURSDAY: Beef-

pears. FRIDAY: A) Tuna noodle casserole, broccoli\carrots, pineapple tidbits, dinner roll. B) Chicken salad/tomato

aroni, green beans, cauliflower, garlic bread, apricots. FRIDAY: A) Pepper steak mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots. wheat bread, Mandarin oranges B.) Turkey/vegetable

Sept. 27-30 MONDAY: baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed peas, dinner roll, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY: Meatloaf, cheesy potatoes Brussels sprouts, wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY: baked pork chop, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, dinner roll, cherry crisp. THURSDAY: Italian sausage with peppers on a bun, red potato wedges, Italian-blend vegetables, apricots All lunches served with 8-ounce, low-fat milk

Sept. 20-24 MONDAY: Hamburger patty, wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend veggies, diced peaches. TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, augratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, dinner roll, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, California-blend vegetables, wheat bread, apricots. THURSDAY: Sweet and sour meatballs, fluffy rice blended vegetables, dinner roll, diced

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

Sept. 1-3 MONDAY: scalloped potatoes & ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread.

TUESDAY: scalloped potatoes & ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread.

WEDNESDAY: Italian sausage w/ sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, fruit, bun,

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), applesauce, wheat bread

Sept. 13-17

Sept. 6-10 MONDAY: sites closed for labor day, TUESDAY: maple glazed ham, sweet potatoes, corn, wheat bread,. WEDNESDAY:

MONDAY: sloppy Joes, cheesy potatoes, peas & carrots, bun. TUESDAY: spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread,.

WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak,

mashed potatoes, cream corn, wheat bread. THURSDAY: turkey tetrazzini, Italian green beans, applesauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, green beans, wheat bread

Sept. 20-24 MONDAY: chili dog, oven potatoes, baked beans, bun. TUESDAY: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread,.

WEDNESDAY: beef & noodles, green beans , peaches, wheat bread. THURSDAY: roast pork

loin, cheesy potatoes casserole, mixed vegetables, wheat bread.

FRIDAY: tuna & noodles, peas, mixed fruit, wheat bread

Sept. 27-30 MONDAY: beef stew, (veggies in stew), biscuit. TUESDAY: chicken noodle casserole, buttered carrots, fruit, wheat bread,.

WEDNESDAY: scalloped potatoes & ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: chicken Alfredo w/ pasta, spinach, wheat bread

Congregate meals coming to WCSC Golden Meals will begin offering congregate meals 11 a.m.-noon, Oct. 4 at the Whiteside County Senior Center for those ages 60 and older.

To take part in 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.

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

• LINK cards will be accepted as payment • Golden Meals will handle all payments.

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

• Golden Meals are approved by a registered dietitian to meet least 1/3 of the daily nutritional requirements for adults.

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.

Dedication of the Butterfly Garden Sign Wednesday, September 22 at 10 a.m For Joe Rudolphi, Tom Lawless, Donna Missman, Warren Reuter and Patty Frey

Open Mic Night Friday, September 24 – Doors open at 6:30 p.m., first singer up at 7 p.m.

Masks are required for this event

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 AARP Safe Driving Classes AARP Safe Driving Classes are tentatively scheduled to resume in October. We will post more information from AARP as soon as it becomes available.

SCUG (Sauk Computer Users Group) September 11 at 1 p.m.

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

TRIAD Meeting September 15 at 12:30 p.m.

Come and join this group that is all about senior citizen safety. Meeting location to be determined. 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.

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

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

Yoga October 7 at 10 a.m.

Yoga is back beginning Thursday, October 7, at a new time: 10 a.m.. Membership is required! Masks are mandatory — no exceptions! Class size is limited to 8 persons. Must provide your own yoga mat and strap.

Covid pre-screening questionnaire will be required to be

completed upon entry to the building. Please enter at Door # 4.

Classroom grandparents needed to work with kids: Informational meeting Oct. 21 at 12:30 p.m.

At the Whitside County Senior Center

Shred event October 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

TRIAD will be sponsoring a drive-thru Shred Event at the Senior Center. You can drive up and drop off your items — all while remaining in your car. There is a twobox limit per car. It’s a great way to have your no-longer needed confidential items shredded on site. Enter from Avenue L. Please remain in your car.

Weddings & Engagements Birthdays & Births Class reunions & graduations Baptisms & Confirmations Honor rolls & Sporting recognition Retirements & more Want to celebrate those special

CELEBRATIONS SECTION ...

IN TUESDAY’S TELEGRAPH AND DAILY GAZETTE

occassions? CALL 815-6322566 or E-MAIL celebration@ saukvalley.com to learn how

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Aug 25, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

12

OUTREACH

Open enrollment is coming What is Open Enrollment?

Every year Medicare has a special Open Enrollment period for Medicare Part-D (prescription drug plan) and the Medicare Advantage Plans (MAPD).

This period runs from October 15 through December 7 and is a crucial time of year for all Medicare beneficiaries who wish to review their options for the upcoming year. This Open Enrollment allows you to join a Part-D or Medicare Advantage plan if you have never taken one since you initially became Medicare eligible, and it allows you to review your options. You can change from Part-D to an Advantage Plan, or vice versa, as well as just compare what you are in to the other options available to you. We always suggest reviewing your plan options each year; there are many aspects that can contribute to higher costs from year-to-year, and this is a way to hopefully spare you those added costs by having a comparison done and choosing a cheaper option, if one is available to you.

Why should you review and compare each year?

Medicare Part-D plan companies change their formularies (accepted medication lists), their tier grouping, add or remove preferred or in-network pharmacies, and raise or lower premiums and deductibles and other costs each year. Some years, these changes are slight, and the plan that you are in may continue to be the best and least expensive option for you. Other years, you may find yourself in the situation where several of your medications are no longer covered, or may cost you twice the price that they did from previous year. Or perhaps, the pharmacy that you love is no longer an in-network pharmacy with your plan. These situations are all examples of how a comparison done with a Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Counselor can greatly benefit you, and help you to avoid unwanted “surprises” at the pharmacy, in the beginning or during the upcoming year. Your local SHIP Counselors at LCCOA and WCSC Outreach Departments are happy to help!

Medicare Advantage plans may also make various changes from year-to-year, those of which may not be just related to prescription costs but also medical costs. During the October 15th -December 7th time frame, you can join a Medicare Advantage plan, opt to enroll into a Part-D plan instead and return to Original Medicare, or change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another. All of these changes would take effect January 1, 2022. It is worth noting that you may see Medicare Advantage plans advertised on T.V. or through the mail. While they can be a good fit for some Medicare beneficiaries, as SHIP Counselors, we do advise to please, do your research, before enrolling into a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Advantage plans are NOT Medicare Supplements and not for every Medicare beneficiary. To get the greatest benefit from the plan, it is worth it to make sure that your providers are in-network and that you understand all of the possible costs associated with the Medicare Advantage plan that you are considering. If you are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, speak with one of us at LCCOA or WCSC this Open Enrollment to be sure you understand your benefits and weigh all of your options.

Annual Notice of Change

In the month of September you will receive, what is known as, the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter from your current plan. This is important information regarding the upcoming changes your company plans to make

with your plan. Please do not disregard these letters-they are important!

These letters allow you to be informed of the upcoming changes; reviewing your options with LCCOA or WCSC Outreach will help you to take control of where your money could be going in the year ahead!

What to do next

LCCOA — We will be scheduling all of our Open Enrollment appointments during the month of September. We always book up fast, and this year will be no exception to this. We have modeled this year’s scheduling after last year’s, since we are uncertain of the times ahead and how COVID may continue to affect our daily lives.

We urge our clients, past and future, to call us in September to ensure that you receive an appointment to meet with our caseworker sometime between October 15 and November 30 to discuss your options for next year. December 1-7 will be reserved for any wrap-up that we have for virtual appointments, as well as for finalizing any wait-listed individuals that we might be able to be fit in at the end of the season.

You can reach LCCOA at 815-288-9236, and speak with the Outreach Assistant, Melissa, to schedule your Open Enrollment appointment. She will go over our check-list with you, and let you know what to send in so that we are prepared for your appointment. Virtual appointments will still be offered this year, as well as face-to-face, as long as there are no further setbacks with the pandemic. We will continue to require face coverings as well as temperature and login screenings at the door for any faceto-face appointments. We will take all necessary precautions to help ensure the health and safety amongst our employees, as well as our clients, to ensure that we will continue to be here for you, as we have been this entire time.

WCSC — To schedule a Medicare Part-D or Medicare Advantage appointment at WCSC Outreach, please call 815-622-9230 Ext. 194 starting Monday, Sept 20. While we are on the phone with you, we will inform you of how our comparison process will look this year. We will assist you on a first-come, first-serve basis. As a reminder, it is helpful to have your red, white, and blue Medicare card and a current medication list handy for your comparison! The accuracy of your comparison is determined by the accuracy of the medication list that is provided to us! Thank you for your patience!

Final notes

We encourage you to reach out to our Outreach Departments for your Part-D and Medicare Advantage Plan options. As always, you can choose to remain in your same plan, as long as that plan continues into the next year, and you do not need to do anything during this enrollment period if you do not want to change. You are welcome to compare plans for yourself on the MyMedicare.Gov website, or by contacting the Medicare hotline directly at 1-800-MEDICARE. LCCOA and WCSC are non-profit agencies here to assist you, and do not receive any compensation from any drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan companies. We are SHIP-certified and offer this non-biased assistance to you to help save you money and to guide you to the best options for you, based on your medications and pharmacy preferences. We do not charge for our services; donations are graciously accepted, but never required, you will not be turned away or treated any different for an inability to donate. We are here for you!