SVM_Golden Echo_092921

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 • OCTOBER 2021 • EDITION 10

All meals planned by a registered dietitian to ensure that they meet nutritional requirements

Congratulations, Madyln and Pharnel Thiebert, our 2021 Prom Queen and King!

No carry-outs will be permitted, in accordance with funding guidelines, but home-delivered meals can be arranged for those who are homebound, isolated, frail or unable to prepare meals for themselves.

Enter at door No. 4 (back of building) at Whiteside County Senior Center and complete a Covid questionnaire.

Seating will be limited. Masks are mandatory upon entering and must remain on at all times, except when eating — no exceptions. Thank you!

Please Turn to pre-register page 10 for with Golden October’s Meals by calling menu 815-626-4442

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, September 29, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

By Susan Lawler Fall has arrived, and our trees look beautiful with all the changing of their colors. Our historical Post House building is looking as stately as ever. We are truly bless to have such a wonderful home to host our Lee County Seniors.

Open Enrollment

It is that time of year: Open Enrollment for Medicare Part D is on its way.

Please call 815-288-9236 for an appointment. Our Outreach appointments are booking up fast; we will do our very best to service all our seniors. If you are able to do a phone appointment, instead of a face-to-face appointment, please inform our Outreach staff. We look forward to another great year with all our seniors.

Pictures, Pictures Everywhere

As you read through our Golden Echo, please enjoy our photos of the Creation Museum, the Ark, Prom, Alaska, and our Butterfly Garden. We are so grateful to Rusty Schrader for allowing us to put so many photos in this issue. We had so many wonderful events this past month that it was too hard to pick; we

hope all of you will enjoy seeing your fellow seniors. As the days go by, we are seeing more and more of our seniors coming out to enjoy LCCOA’s trips and special events. Please keep reading the Golden Echo, Facebook, and our web page; we do not want you to miss out on all the adventures we have in store for our seniors.

Thank you, Thank you

We are so very grateful to Franklin Grove Living & Rehabilitation Center, The Meadows of Franklin Grove, and Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Center for sponsoring our Prom. These wonderful facilities are always there to support our Seniors of Lee and Ogle counties.

They realize that partnering with LCCOA can only improve the quality of lives for all seniors. LCCOA’s Senior Transportation has the privilege of transporting residents of these facilities. We hear firsthand from their residents how wonderful it is that LCCOA invites them to all their events, and vice versa. So, thank you, Franklin, Meadows and Oregon, for all your support.

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk As the leaves are beginning to change outside, I have exciting changes to share with you!

Our center will re-open October 4 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.! Welcome Back!

Thank you for your patience as we all navigate these changes.

Door #4 (in the back of the building) will be the only door that is open. Please enter at that door only. All other doors will remain locked from the outside.

Everyone will be required by the IDOA to complete a Covid questionnaire upon entry. If you are not feeling well, we ask that you visit the center another day.

Masks are mandatory (except when eating) and unfortunately, there are no exceptions. We want to keep our staff and

This past summer we lost two more of our dedicated seniors: Nell Nooney and Norm Krug.

Nell Nooney was a sweet, kind and lovely lady. Her energy put all of us to shame. Nell and her longtime friend, Jesse Ware, would exercise here at the Senior Center weekly; rain or shine both ladies worked out together. Nell always

had time to stop and speak with myself, and with our staff. We will miss seeing Nell with her bountiful energy. When we at LCCOA were informed of the passing of Nell, we felt this could not be — this lady had more energy than all of us put together. We here were saddened at the loss of Nell. She will be missed, not only by all of us, but by her long-time workout friend Jesse. Our hearts go out to her son and family. We know there is an exercise group waiting for Nell at heaven’s gates.

So long, dear friend, until we meet again.

Norm Krug, a longtime member of the Golden Kiwanis and First United Methodist Church, passed away this past summer. Norm and I had many conversations about his construction company, especially about his time in Naperville, where we both lived for many years. He was a very interesting and giving man.

He was devoted to his wife and children.

His best friend and fellow Kiwanis, Farell Wright, can provide many stories of their time together. The Golden Kiwanis will miss his humor and his willingness to volunteer at all times. He was an avid recruiter for the Golden Kiwanis. He truly enjoyed meeting once a week to visit with his fellow members. We will miss his cheerful face and his wonderful sense of humor. We know heaven will have a special place for another carpenter. Farewell, dear friend.

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

– Susan

ments. Golden Meals will handle all transactions associated with meals. They provide a nutritionally balanced meal.

We will have a limited capacity of seating available, socially distanced for your safety, so yes, our dining room will look a little different than what you are accustomed to. Please enter at door No. 4 and complete your Covid questionnaire.

Masks will be mandatory at all times, except while eating.

We ask any patrons who come to the center to also scan in at our kiosk. So, if you do not have a bar code key tag, please stop and the front desk and get registered. Memberships are $25 per person, or $35 for two people residing in the same household. By scanning in, this is our way of contact tracing in the unfortunate event of a positive Covid encounter.

We have begun scheduling face-toface, Medicare D comparison appointments. These appointments will be reserved for those individuals who are fully vaccinated. Please call 622-9230 Ext. 194 to schedule your appointment today.

In order to protect our staff, we ask that if

you are not fully vaccinated, that you schedule an over-the-phone visit or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Lindsay is no longer with us in our Outreach Dept. We were sad to see her leave, however, we were grateful to have her for 12 years! Thank you, Lindsay, for your years of excellent customer service! We wish her all the best! We are pleased to welcome Teri Shaw as our new ADRC Supervisor! Please get to know our Outreach Staff on page 6. They are an amazing team and here to serve you!

PLEASE, we ask that anything that can still be handled with a phone call, be addressed over the phone. We are not accepting walk-ins at this time. We apologize for any inconvenience Oprah Winfrey once said, “The greatest discovery of all times is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude."

Thank you for your positivity and patience as we navigate the changes within our center!

Welcome Back, Friends!!

More Thank You’s

each of you safe.

At this time, only the events listed will be allowed to gather. If you would like to restart your activity (cards, pool, dominoes, etc.) please reach out to me at extension 110 to discuss times available, as that might be different than what you were accustomed to in the past and will be limited capacity.

Lunches are back, beginning Oct. 4, Monday through Thursday! Meals will be provided by Golden Meals, and you must be pre-registered. Please call them at 815-626-4442 to get signed up. No carry-outs will be allowed, based on funding guidelines. Congregate meals are the purpose of bringing meals back to the center. Link cards may be used for pay-

Pizza Hut of Dixon donated the bread sticks for our Prom. Everyone enjoyed them. We are thankful for our area businesses, such as Pizza Hut, for their continuing support of Lee County Seniors.

Without the donations of our surrounding companies and our community, LCCOA could not provide all the vital services that are so needed to provide a quality of life for our senior population.

Thank you, Pizza Hut, for your donation.

A Special Thank you

Our reputation precedes us: Not only are we well known in Lee County, but Lawrence Hunt, of Hunt Insurance Group of Palos Heights, has heard our story from one of our new drivers, Betsy Foy. They have donated a very generous check to help with our new furnaces and air conditioner. We cannot thank them enough — for Betsy in spreading our mission, and for Hunt Insurance Group for hearing her call.

Thank you, both, for caring and your support.

Passing of Our Dear Friends

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.

HELPING OTHERS

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Volunteers sought to help patients and their caregivers Are you looking to make an impact and help your community? Would you like a volunteer position that has the potential to impact families and residents of Whiteside County and the surrounding area?

If you said “yes” to these questions and are looking for a way to help educate people in Whiteside County and surrounding counties, then a Volun-

teer Educator or Support Group Facilitator may be a great volunteer role for you!

Did you know that there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, and by 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million!

With more than 11 million Americans providing unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, volunteers are needed more than ever.

Our Volunteer Educators and Support Group Facilitators help provide education and resources to those living with the disease and their caregivers. The resources our volunteers provide include everything from general information about the disease or helpful tips on how caregivers can communicate with their loved one in all three stages of the disease, to letting community members know about our free 24/7 helpline, and the list goes on.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering, we encourage you to join us on October 14 at 12:30 p.m. for our Alzheimer’s Association Volunteer Information session at the Whiteside County Senior Center. We have both In-Person and Virtual positions, ranging from as little as volunteering a few times a year to helping once a month.

Registration info

Registration is not required but encouraged. To register, call 815-4841302 or join us at the Whiteside Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, on October 14 at 12:30 p.m.

Classroom Grandparents needed to work with kids 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 Senior 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

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

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.

WCSC phone numbers Office Hours: 11 a.m. to 1 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, September 29, 2021

You can help people affected by Alzheimer’s

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Elinore Kugler Florine Bush Betsy Foy David Foy

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.

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Julie Logan Ruth Brylski

Charlene Smith Mary Bennett

Donna & Thomas Gericke William & Nancy Havener

Silvana McDonald Dave & Pam Erby

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.

Kenneth Weinstock Lee County Hunt Insurance Agency, Inc. Lawrence K. Hunt, CIC,CRM

Pizza Hut of Dixon Jesse Ware Eileen Piper Larry Piper Teen Turf LCCOA Line Dancers

Rusty Schrader Lee County United Way Amanda Wike Lifescape Johnson CPA Ben Galantine

NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Terry Christian LOTS Franklin Grove Living &

Rehabilitation Center The Meadows of Franklin Grove Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Center

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 John Booker Joe Bright Karla Burn Al Campbell

Dillon Foundation Erie Public Library Sasha Logan Glenda MacLennan Golden Meals Joe Fornero

Kroger Michelle Miller NIAAA Odell Public Library, Morrison Riverbend Food Bank

Rusty Schrader Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG Emily Taylor United Way of Sterling 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 $20 – Individual $35 – Two individuals in the same household $50 to $199 – Partner $200 to $499 – Sponsor $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 serving 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 Sasha Logan

OUTREACH

Medicare D appointments are starting to be scheduled. We began taking phone calls for appointments on Sept. 20. These appointments are filling up fast, and are for fully vaccinated people only (proof of vaccination required) so please call 622-9230, ext. 194, to get yours scheduled. Teri will talk with you on the phone, get your information and schedule your appointment. She will then mail you a

packet. You MUST bring your completed packet with you on the day of your appointment. If it is not completed, you will need to be rescheduled based on availability.

On the day of your Medicare D appointment, you will enter at door No. 4, complete a Covid questionnaire, present vaccine card, and undergo a temperature screening prior to your face-to-face appoint-

ment. If you have Covid symptoms or a temperature, your appointment must be rescheduled in order to keep everyone safe. You may also review your Medicare D online at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Whether you change your Medicare D plan with us or online, you will be required to set up a user name and password.

DropBox is still available for you to

drop off items. Please contact us at 815-622-9230 to inquire about using this.

PLEASE ... we ask that anything that can still be handled with a phone call, be addressed over the phone. We are not accepting walk-ins at this time.

We are closed Monday, Oct. 11, in honor of Columbus Day.

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, September 29, 2021

Appointments for Medicare D filling up fast at WCSC

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

Meet the friendly staff at the WCSC Outreach Dept.

They can be reached at 622-9230, Ext. 194

Wendy has been with us since 2008 and is a Certified SHIP Counselor and is AIRS Certified.

Teri, our ADRC Supervisor joined our team with 27 years of customer service experience. She was born and raised in the Sauk Valley and is here full time to assist you.

Linda joined our team as a Certified SHIP Counselor in January 2018.

QUALITY PHYSICAL THERAPY at

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (815) 857-3044 Amboy Clinic (815) 288-5531 Commerce Towers (Dixon) (815) 285-5591 Physicians Immediate Care (Dixon) (815) 732-3151 Oregon Clinic (815) 946-3453 Polo Clinic

LCCOA

TOP: Flora, Eddie and Tina were all decked out in their finest and looking sharp for LCCOA’s End-of-Summer Prom on Aug. 21 at the Post House Ballroom.

Thanks to our caring cleaning crew!

LCCOA would like to extend a special thank you to all who assisted us with our deep cleaning of our Senior Transportation vehicles.

S NT !

E M E RT ABL A AP VAIL A An Affordable Assisted Lifestyle Community for the Older Adult.

RIGHT: Kathleen flashes a smile for the camera during Prom.

815-625-7045 • 2205 Oak Grove Avenue • Sterling, IL 61081 Managed by Gardent Management Solutions • www.hw-sterling-slf.com

BELOW: Prom guests hit the dance floor.

FEATURING:

Spacious Studio & One-Bedroom Apartments

SM-ST1912837

• Weekly housekeeping with linen & • Vibrant activities, social laundry services events, & outings • 3 plated meals served daily • 24-hour staffing

(815) 625-7045 | marketing@hw-sterling-slf.com

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Oh, what a night to remember!

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

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Weekly and monthly activities and meetings: Lee County Council on Aging

SENIOR BENEFITS

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.

Please note: MASKS ARE REQUIRED IN ALL HALLWAYS AND COMMON AREAS

Line dancing Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

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

Table crafters Thursdays at 1 p.m.

The Crafters grace our tables. All types of arts and crafters. Masks are required.

Mexican Train Dominoes players Fridays at 1 p.m.

All are welcome. Masks are required.

Bingo is here — twice! — in October

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.

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.

Bingo will be here on Friday, October 8 At 9:30 a.m.!!

And also on Friday, October 22 at 9:30 a.m.!!

Masks are still required.

™

No Open Mic Night scheduled for October The musicians are going to Florida for the winter, but they – and Open Mic Night – will return in March 2022!

Since 1963

VISIT OUR WEBSITE!

Weekly activities and meetings: Whiteside County Senior Center

HeritageOfCare.com/Walnut

When you’re here, you’re family!

• RESTORE THERAPY: Occupational Physical & Speech Therapy

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.

• Easy Transitions from Hospital, to Heritage, to Home

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.

• Medicare & Medicaid Certified

Yoga Thursdays at 11 a.m.

Membership required. Limit 8 persons. Masks mandatory

Lunch Monday thru Thursday Pre-register with Golden Meals — call 626-4442. See page 10 for the menu.

• Long-Term Skilled Nursing • Respite Options Available

Call to schedule a tour!

(815) 379-2131

308 S. Second Street Walnut, Illinois

/HeritageHealthWalnut

SM-ST1846027

Make your reservations now! A Trip to the “Silver Belle Social” at the Festival of Trees, and a night at the Isle Casino Resort and a Holiday Cruise on the Celebration Belle!

Nov. 19 and 20, 2021 — 2 days & 1 night Cost: $259 for non-members — $239 for members, based on double occupancy — A $50 deposit is due upon sign-up to reserve your spot.

Enjoy 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 with a traditional turkey dinner and Christmas music to dance the evening away! Not to mention the hours, and hours one could spend at the Casino!!

Space is limited. Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and a traditional turkey dinner are included.

Please call Marisa at 815-288-9236 questions or to reserve your space.

Would you like to take a trip to the Emerald Isle?

We are in the planning phase for a possible trip to Ireland during late summer, early fall in 2022. Please contact April at Lee County Council on Aging, at 815-2889236, with interest and to get updates as plans solidify. She would love to know what you would like to see in a trip to Ireland.

Let’s go to Mackinac Island!

May 30-June 3, 2022 Cost: $570 for non-members — $545 members, based on double occupancy Enjoy touring Mackinac Island by horse and carriage, cruising the Soo Locks in Saul Sainte Marie, Michigan, visiting and playing at the Kewadin Saul Casino, visiting the Colonial Michilmackinac Village (a 1700s era village), and so much more!

Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and dinner are included. Please call Marisa at 815-2889236 questions or to reserve your space.

Nashville

August 1-6, 2022 Price to be determined More information to come. Please call Marisa at 815-288-9236 questions or to reserve your space.

Lee County Council on Aging presents the Festival of Trees Celebration Belle Holiday Cruise — An event for our friends 55 and up

Friday, Nov. 19 to Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021 Cost: $ 239 for members, based on double occupancy, or $259 for non-members. $50 deposit due with reservation, balance due by Oct. 20, 2021. Trip cancellation protection available for $21.

This 2-day and 1-night package includes round-trip motorcoach transportation and deluxe overnight accommodations at the Isle Casino Resort with the best available bonus package.

The Silver Belle Social at the Festival of Trees — Davenport, Iowa

Gather together and explore the Festival of Trees without the crowds while you enjoy complimentary coffee and cookies. This event is exclusive for guests 55 and up so that they can avoid the large crowds. Guests will enjoy browsing the beautiful holiday displays designed by talented local designers, shopping for gifts, watching performances by local dance and music groups on the CenterStage, visiting Santa, riding the Festival Express Train, and so much more.

The Celebration Belle Holiday Cruise — Moline, Illinois

Join us for this fabulous combination of Christmas spirit, music, and dance, complete with some favorite Christmas songs — plus some appearances by some very special people from the past. Enjoy a traditional holiday turkey dinner with all the trimmings. There is music, great food, lots of festivities, and holiday cheer for everyone.

For information and reservations, contact Marisa at 815-288-9236

Fun Trip reservation form (Please print)

Trip_______________________________________________________ Date Of Trip_______________________ Member

Non-member

Price paid $___________________ Check #______________Cash $ ______________ Overnight trips Name of roommate____________________________________________________________________________ Special needs________________________________________________________________________________ Insurance coverage __Yes __ No Name_______________________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________ City / State / Zip______________________________________________________________________________ Phone #____________________________________ Birthdate_________________________________________ Emergency Contact Information (individual not attending trip) Name_______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone #_________________________________ Relationship_________________________________________

Please turn in with down payment to: Lee County Council On Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon IL 61021

9 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Upcoming Trips

October Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

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

Oct. 1 MONDAY: A) Crispy fish sandwich, whole grain wheat bun with tartar sauce, mac & cheese, peas, diced peaches, B) Turkey/minestrone

Oct. 4-8 MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, Mandarin oranges. TUESDAY: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry veggies, whole grain dinner roll, apricots.

WEDNESDAY: Meatball sub on whole grain roll, peas & carrots, season potato wedges, diced peaches. THURSDAY: A) Turkey burger, whole grain wheat bun, sweet potato fries, broccoli, apple crisp, B) Tuna salad/chicken rice. FRIDAY: hot ham & cheese, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, baked beans, chilled applesauce

Oct. 11-15 MONDAY: BBQ riblet, whole grain wheat bun, cheesy

potatoes, country-mixed vegetables, diced pears.

TUESDAY: Creamy chicken pasta, carrots, steamed peas, whole grain wheat bread, chilled pineapple.

WEDNESDAY: Cheeseburger on whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, baked beans, Ambrosia fruit salad. THURSDAY: A) Lemon pepper chicken, wild rice, broccoli, whole grain dinner roll, applesauce, B) Ham/vegetable.

FRIDAY: Citrus-baked ham, sweet potatoes, Scandinavian-blend veggies, whole grain dinner roll, diced peaches

Oct. 18-22 MONDAY: cranberry chicken, buttered potatoes, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears.

TUESDAY: baked ziti, with 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

Oct. 25-29 MONDAY: BBQ. chicken breast, whole grain dinner roll , cheesy potatoes, green beans, pineapple tidbits.

TUESDAY: A) sloppy Joe, whole grain wheat bun, tator tots, broccoli, diced pears, B) Ham\vegetable.

WEDNESDAY: Baked chicken quarter, mashed potatoes with gravy, coin carrots, whole grain dinner roll, peach cobbler. THURSDAY: Mushroom Swiss, burger on whole grain bun, buttered red potatoes, baked beans, diced peaches. FRIDAY: Fish patty, whole grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend veggies, strawberry applesauce, tartar sauce All lunches served with 8-ounce, low-fat milk

October Golden Meals PLEASE NOTE: MEALS WILL BE SERVED AT WHITESIDE COUNTY SENIOR CENTER MONDAY THROUGH THURSDAY ONLY. For more information about home-delivered meals, call 626-4442.

Oct. 1 FRIDAY: Tator tot casserole, (veggies in casserole), fruit, wheat bread, ,

Oct. 4-8 MONDAY: Sloppy Joes, oven potatoes, peas and carrots. TUESDAY: Spaghetti, corn, apricots, wheat bread.

WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Turkey tetrazzini, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, peas, wheat bread,

Oct. 11-15 MONDAY: Closed for Columbus day. TUESDAY: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread.

WEDNESDAY: Beef and noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Ham loaf, sweet potatoes, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Tuna noodles, peas, fruit, wheat bread

Oct. 18-22 MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, carrots, fruit, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken noodle casserole, (veggies in casserole), fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped

potatoes & ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Ham steak with maple glaze, sweet potatoes, spinach, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Italian sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, fruit, bun

Oct. 25-29 MONDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, fruit. 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: Tator tot casserole, (veggies in casserole), fruit, 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.

Quilts for Veterans The members of the First Congregational United Church of Christ of Lee Center donated hand-made lap quilts to be given away to veterans. We have 5 beautiful quilts to be raffled off here at LCCOA on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Just call 815-288-9236 or email lccoa@ comcast.net, to enter the Veteran’s name and phone

number. Names will be drawn Nov. 11, and the winners will be notified shortly after.

Rules of the Road class at LCCOA The Secretary of State’s Office has announced that they will conduct a Rules of the Road class – in-person – here at LCCOA on Wednesday, October 20 at 9:30 a.m..

Call ahead of time to reserve your seat in the class.

MASKS ARE REQUIRED, AND ALL MUST BE VACCINATED.

No Open Mic Night scheduled for October The musicians are going to Florida for the winter, but they — and Open Mic Night — will return in March 2022!

Special Events in Whiteside County Fancy Feet Foot Clinic Oct. 6 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Please call Karen 815-631-5437 to set up an appointment. Masks will be mandatory — no exceptions. Enter at door No. 4 only. Covid pre-screening questionnaires will be required to be completed. No walk-ins allowed.

YOGA (New Time) Oct. 7, 14, 21 & 28 — 11 a.m.

Yoga is back beginning Thursday October 7, at a new time: 11 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 No. 4.

Drive-Through Shred Event Oct. 13 – 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

TRIAD will sponsor a drive-through Shred Event at the Senior Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. You can drive up

and drop off your items, all while remaining in your car.

There is a two-bag limit per car. It’s a great way to have your no-longer needed confidential items shredded on site. Enter from Avenue L and please remain in your car.

SCUG (Sauk Computer Users Group) Oct. 16 — 1 p.m.

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

Alzheimers Volunteer Informational Meeting Oct. 14 — 12:30 p.m.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering, we encourage you to join us Oct. 14 at 12:30 p.m. for our Alzheimer’s Association Volunteer Information session at the Whiteside County Senior Center. We have positions that are In-Person and Virtual, ranging from as little volunteering a few times a year to helping once a month.

Registration is not required but encouraged. Seating

IN BRIEF Shred events coming up in Sterling and Erie

A pair of Shred Events will be held this month to help seniors protect their personal information by destroying unneeded confidential documents at location near you.

• 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling (enter from Avenue L).

• 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 14 at 908 Ninth Ave., Erie.

You can drive up and drop off your items, all while remaining in your car.

There is a two-bag limit per car and people are asked to remain in their vehicle.

Made possible through a grant from Age Options and Senior Medicare Patrol.

is limited to 8 people. Masks are mandatory. Please enter at door No. 4. To register, call 815-484-1302 or join us at the Whiteside Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St, Sterling.

TRIAD Meeting October 20 — 12:30pm 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

Classroom grandparents needed to work with kids Oct. 21 — 12:30pm An informational meetings will be held at WCSC. Pre-registration is not required, but class size is limited to 8 people. Masks are mandatory. Please enter at door No. 4. Come and discover the joy in being a Foster Grandparent!

COVID ITAC: Amplify your life

Amplified phones and Bluetooth devices are offered free of charge for 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). Learn more at www.itactty.org.

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. No walk-ins will be taken at this time; appointments required. To make an appointment to test the phones and apply with LCCOA, call 815-288-9236; ask for Outreach.

Questions about booster shot?

Below is a summary of Covid updates from the Illinois Department of Aging, for the week of Aug. 15, submitted by WCSC:

IDPH: Third Dose/Booster Shot FAQ

Currently, individuals with moderately to severely compromised immune systems are recommended for a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This includes people receiving treatment for cancer, people taking medications that weaken the immune systems, organ or stem cell transplant recipients, individuals with advanced or untreated HIV infection, and other conditions. A full list of conditions can be found on CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno. html. If you are unsure whether you are recommended for a third dose, talk with your health care provider. The third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can be given anytime 28 days after receiving the second dose.

Go to https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/third-dose-faq for more information.

IDPH launches online ‘Vax Verify’ system

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is launching a new immunization portal, Vax Verify, that will allow Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID19 vaccination record. Vax Verify can be accessed at https://idphportal.illinois.gov.

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

A trip down memory lane From The Ark to Alaska, travelers enjoyed fun-filled journeys during LCCOA trips

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, September 29, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

12 LCCOA

On the bus and off, there were plenty of smiles as the travel group visited the Creation Museum and the Ark in August.

At left, the group posed for a picture with this big fella at the Creation Museum.

LCCOA’s Creation Museum and the Ark trips in August were a great success — thank you to all who traveled with us!

Good night, Alaska Good night, Alaska, we bid you farewell for now.

The days, we could not ask for better, weather so crisp and clear; radiant the snow-capped mountains towered, in the backdrop of every turn. Beauty so fair, your breath it did take with each stare.

Glorious was this place, each port, new adventure awaits. Average of 70 (degrees) we did feel; unusual we were told. Not much for rain and gray, just beauty to behold.

Whales were seen, trains were rode, glaciers at a glance. A cruise ship full of laughter and fun.

Coffeehouse, hot tubs and pools.

Food all around.

Bars, and shows. Casino, music and dance. Photographs to be had, and shopping at every chance.

New friends and old, memories in the making, this trip had it all, and all for the taking.

I thank you, my travelers who joined on this trip; I’ve enjoyed getting to know you, even if just a little bit. Tales of your day, past travel and more. I look forward to another time, where we can travel once more.

For now we say goodbye, our memories not soon to forget. With Alaska in our hearts, may good health and good fortune be found, to all of us, the next time around.

By Samantha Harazin | 9/2/2021 (Written on the balcony as we sailed back to Seattle)

Above: Alaska cruise guests enjoy a meal at the Metropolitan Restaurant.

Right: The Celebrity Millennium cruise stops in Skagway, Alaska.

Photos courtesy of Celebrity Cruises