SVM_Golden Echo_102721

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS: Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Transportation, and the Lee-Ogle Transportation System will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Nov 25-26, in observance of Thanksgiving. We will re-open on Monday, Nov. 29. The Whiteside County Senior Center and Whiteside County Public Transportation will be closed Thursday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day, and Thursday and Friday, Nov. 25-26, for Thanksgiving.

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 • NOVEMBER 2021 • EDITION 11

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, Oct 27, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

was hit hard in replacing 3 furnaces, and an air conditioner. You know what “Murphy’s Law” says: What can go wrong will go wrong. All I can say is we love our “Money Pit.” This building has brought so much happiness to so many people; we are here to stay, with your help, we will weather the storm.

By Susan Lawler Director’s Report

Happy Thanksgiving! It is that time of year again, to forget about your weight, and just enjoy the seasonal pumpkin pie, turkey and all its dressings. If you need a ride to the grocery store, or to the food pantry, LCCOA Senior Transportation is here for you; just pick-up the phone, and call 815-288-9236.

and of course for your Thanksgiving table.

Membership Campaign

Open Enrollment

Open Enrollment started October 15, and we are busy little bees, trying to answering all your questions. If you haven’t set your Medicare Part D appointment, please call Melissa, she will be happy to assist you. Don’t forget Open Enrollment ends December 7, 2021.

At the end of November we will start our membership campaign, so watch for those envelopes that will be coming in the mail. Membership runs from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Your membership allows you to have discounts on our trips, Chili Supper, Luau Dinner, and much more.

Your contribution allows LCCOA to continue providing all of our vital services to all seniors of Lee County.

We could not survive without your continuing support. Thank you; we appreciate each and every one of you, you are our family.

B- I –N –G- O

FunSavers

On October 8 , we had guests from the Meadows of Franklin Grove join us for a morning of Bingo, laughter, and wonderful prizes. Terry Christian made beautiful floral arrangements that were just perfect for fall,

FunSavers is back! We are starting another clothing drive. So start bagging up your old clothes, shoes, purses, belts, sheets, and blankets.

Every bag brings us closer to paying off another furnace. This year LCCOA

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk Gratitude! With the month of November right around the corner, I wanted to share this quote by Melody Beattie, an American author of selfhelp books: “Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity. It makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

I think I can speak for all of us across this nation, when I thank our Veterans for all they sacrificed for our freedom!

I also want to thank each of our patrons for their patience this last month as we carefully navigated the gentle re-opening of the senior center and managed our staffing challenges.

We continue to be open for you Monday through Friday, 11a.m.-1 p.m. and by appointment. However, we continue to serve the community by phone, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We invite you to join us for lunch!

Golden Meals serves in our dining room 11 a.m.-noon Monday through Thursday. The cost of meals is only $3

Trips

LCCOA is off tripping again; we are heading to the Isle Casino Resort to try our luck at the big money. Next we are going to Washington D.C. We are optimistic we will have a tour of the White House. It is only for special people, and of course LCCOA’s Senior are the Cat’s Pajamas, (for our baby seniors, you will need to ask us old-timers what that means). The next adventure is Mackinac Island; third time’s a charm — come rain or high waters, we are heading to the Island. Nashville here we come. Our last Nashville trip was a hit, and by popular demand, we are going again!

And finally, to close out the year, Ireland is calling us home; there just might be a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

ter, we’d love to give you a tour of LCCOA. Besides cards, we have Bingo, crafters, dominoes and Rummikub.

Holiday Shop

Our Holiday Shop will open Monday, Nov. 29. Our prices range from 25 cents to $3. We have new and gently used items for sale. We look forward to seeing you at our shop. This a great opportunity to pick up some wonderful gifts for your family and friends.

Library

We here at LCCOA are welcoming back all our card players with open arms. Please spread the word: We are ready to play, so deal those cards. If you haven’t visited our Senior Cen-

We have a wonderful volunteer, Janet, from the RSVP program, who is working hard to spruce up our library to make it more user friendly for seniors. Each month we will be spotlighting a book; this month it is “Feel Our Freedom,” by Alisa Hauser Kraft, and photographs by Jon Lowenstein. Our very own Senior Transportation rider, Gary Lee, is featured in this book. This is a heartwarming story featuring Gary. Please stop by the Center. We have a Senior Center copy, which will remain in the building, but we want you to come in to read and enjoy all the stories.

All of our staff, drivers, Board of Directors, and myself wish all of you a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

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

— Susan

for people over the age of 60. Please enter at door No. 4 and complete a Covid questionnaire. Our dining room is safe — we are following the IDOA standards for congregate meal settings: Seating is limited, tables are spaced 6 feet apart, masks and gloves are worn by server, meals are individually plated and masks are required at all times while in the building, except while eating. We ask that if you have any Covid symptoms that you please do not come to the center.

Activities are gradually returning to the center. If your group/activity would like to gather, please contact me at extension 110 and I will do my best to accommodate your request based on the IDOA standards for In-Person Services at Senior Centers.

We are following the state-wide mask mandate that was put into place August 30: “Face coverings are required for all individuals when in

an indoor public place regardless of vaccine status.” Again — thank you for keeping our staff safe!

We do have a few slots still open for Med D Plan Comparisons. Please call Outreach at 622-9230 Ext. 194 to schedule an appointment.

I recognize that the pandemic has been difficult for so many individuals and divided many families based on vaccination choices, so in the season of gratitude and Thanksgiving, I wanted to share one last thing with you; “You can still love people even if they don’t believe the same things you believe or act the way you act”, —Danny Gokey, American Gospel Singer.

We are grateful for each of you and wish you a happy and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving, from the staff at the WCSC!

Card Players Wanted

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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Making your special day one to remember is a team effort Angelia Faller Loescher and Joe Loescher said their I do's in the historic Post House Ballroom, and the happy couple had an amazing wedding.

Here is an accolade from our stunning bride: “Thank you! It was a great time, and we loved how special and easy it was to have it at the Post House!

We appreciate all you did for us to make our day memorable.”

Thank you, Angelia and Joe, for allowing us to share in your wonderful day. Our very best to both of you from the Post House Team: Susan, Aaliyah, Samantha, Marisa and April.

The Post House Team is here for all our couples, give a call at 815-2889236, we are waiting to help you plan your perfect day.

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: 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, Oct 27, 2021

POST HOUSE

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

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4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Joyce Warrenfeltz Rosalind Pate Loni Byars Larry Byars Kathy Luther-Grossman Karin Miller June Gascoigne Sharon Wilson Wayne Wilson Darlene Hinkle Pat Vail

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2021 Tom Beveroth Kathy Clayton Christine Erickson Barb Peugh Ken & Barb Shawver Sheila Carey Sue Endress Susan Little Connie Ricklefs 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 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.

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.

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

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.

Darla Tarbill Bonnie O’Connell Charles Elder Virginia Elder Lee County 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 Bill Brown Rock River Club Dorothy Szewczyk

Sandy Wittenauer Betsy Foy Gary Lee First Cogregational United Church of Christ of Lee County Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger Lee and

Considine, LLC Sami Rodriguez – Petersen Health Care Thomas Houck – Willett Hofmann Paul Roe Melody Mitchell

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 Michael T. Glenn

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

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DO YOU MISS RONALD REAGAN?

Make checks payable to Whiteside County Senior Center, and mail to: WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081 PLEASE PRINT First/Middle/Last Name______________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________ City, State________________________ Zip code_________________________ Home phone _____________________Cell phone_________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________ Date of Birth________________________Gender_________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)__________________________________

HELP PASS ON THE REAGAN LEGACY AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION

Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPE Single $25

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

VOLUNTEER AT THE REAGAN BOYHOOD HOME!

Spouse’s Name_____________________________________________________ Cell phone_____________________ Date of birth_________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)__________________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)________________________________ EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name____________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone___________________________________________________ Relationship to you__________________________________________________ SPOUSE’S EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name____________________________________________________

CONTACT PATRICK AT

Home/Cell phone___________________________________________________

Relationship to you__________________________________________________

OR CALL US AT

Thank you for being part of our Senior Center —

FOR MORE INFORMATION.

where you enter as a friend and leave as family!

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

Whiteside County Senior Center 2021 Membership Form

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

WCSC invites you to enjoy lunch Golden Meals is serving meals in our dining room for only $3 for those over the age of 60. The meals have been delicious! Meals are served 11 a.m.- noon, Monday through Thursday only.

You can use cash, check or your LINK card to pay. Meals are available for those under the age of 60, but we ask that you give a $6 donation.

Want to join us for lunch? It’s simple: Enter at door No. 4, fill out a Covid questionnaire (required by IDOA), and head on down to the dining room. You can register right here and enjoy your meal!

Carry-outs cannot be offered at this time. The WCSC dining room is following all IDOA standards for congregate meal settings. Seating is limited, tables are spaced 6 feet apart, masks and gloves are worn by the server, meals are individually plated, and masks are required at all times while in the building, except while eating.

When individuals were asked about the experience with Golden Meals, here is what they said; “It’s balanced nutritionally with sodium, sugar and portion size. I get home delivered meals and it has decreased my grocery bill and there is no cleanup.

The Church Women’s United group recently donated $10,000 to the Golden Meals program.

It’s the best gift I ever gave myself! I have lost 30 pounds in the last year and I feel great!” — H.H. “The beef and noodles were delicious!” — E.S. NICAA Golden Meals' motto is “People helping people,” and that was truly evident with the donation from Church Women’s United check to Golden Meals for $10,000. THANK YOU!!!

At Liberty Court, every past moment is a treasured memory. We understand that millions of moments define our residents’ stories.

Continue to make meaningful memories by touring Liberty Court today.

(815) 285-2000 www.LibertyCourtSeniorLiving.com Visit us at:

The WCSC dining room is following all IDOA standards for congregate meal settings. Seating is limited, tables are spaced 6 feet apart.

124 Liberty Court, Dixon, IL 61021 SM-ST1920804

LCCOA

On Sept. 22, 2021, LCCOA dedicated the Butterfly Garden Sign to Joe Rudolphi, Tom Lawless, Warren Reuter, Patty Frey, and Donna Missman. These wonderful Seniors will always be forever in our hearts. Paul Rudolphi gave a heartwarming speech on behalf of the Rudolphi family.

Featured are family and friends of Tom Lawless and Donna Missman, and Joe Rudolphi’s entire family.

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FEATURING:

Spacious Studio & One-Bedroom Apartments

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

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

A sign of affection for our departed friends

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Weekly and monthly Order a pizza and help LCCOA 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.

DIXON — Lee County Council on Aging is teaming up with Papa Murphy’s for an easy fundraising event from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20. All you have to do is order, pay, bake and eat — and 15% of all proceeds will go to LCCOA. To order, call 815-677-9650 or go to www.papamurphys. com.

LCCOA would like to thank Molly Blackburn, owner of the Papa Murphy’s Dixon franchise, for supporting LCCOA, as well as all those who support local non-profits.

OUTREACH Discount available for registration sticker

PLEASE NOTE: MASKS ARE REQUIRED IN ALL HALLWAYS AND COMMON AREAS

Quilts for Veterans Raffle Drawing Thursday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at LCCOA Winners need not be present to win.

Rummikub Players Mondays at 1 p.m.

Games begin at 1 p.m. All are welcome!

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 with all types of arts and crafters.

Mexican Train Dominoes Players Fridays at 1 p.m.

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

Bingo is here twice in November!

Friday, Nov. 5 and 19 at 9:30 a.m.

Open Mic Night There is no Open Mic Night scheduled for November. (The musicians are in Florida for the winter.) The musicians – and Open Mic Night – will return in March 2022!

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.

Trouble hearing on the phone? Help is available 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.

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

LCCOA is a test center to apply and obtain

an amplified device. Secure your appointment to test the phones and apply with LCCOA at 815-288-9236, ask for Outreach.

No walk-ins will be taken at this time; appointments required. Call for more details.

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

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204 S. Ottawa Ave • 288-2241

AMBOY

303 E Main St. • 857-2611

www.thejonesfh.com

Upcoming Trips

Nov. 19 and 20, 2021 – 2 days & 1 night Cost: $239 per person for members, $259 for non-members, based on double occupancy; $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 815-288-9236 and ask

for Marisa for questions or to reserve your space.

LCCOA presents a 6-day 5-night trip to Washington, D.C.

Thursday through Tuesday, March 10-15, 2022 Cost: $625 for members and $650 for non-members, based on double occupancy; $75 deposit is due upon sign-up to reserve your spot.

See the Capital Building, White House, National Archives. Tour Monuments and Veterans Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery and the Smithsonian Institution.This trip includes 5 nights lodging and 8 meals, transportation, and admission fees. Call and talk to your Group Leader, Marisa Perales, at 815-288-9236.

Let’s go to Mackinac Island!

May 30-June 3, 2022 Cost: $545 per person for members, $570 for non-members, based on double occupancy Enjoy touring Mackinac Island by horse and carriage, cruising the Soo Locks in Sault Sainte Marie, MI, visiting

and playing at the Kewadin Sault Casino, visiting the Colonial Michilimackinac Village – a 1700’s era village and so much more! Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and dinner are included.

Please call 815-288-9236 and ask for Marisa for Questions or to Reserve your space.

Nashville, Here we Come!

August 1-6, 2022 Price: TBD More information to come. Please call 815-288-9236 and ask for Marisa for Questions or to Reserve your space.

Explore Ireland!

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 815-288-9236 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.

The benefits of going on a group trip If you have not traveled with a senior group tour, then now is the time to try. I know that many of you have fears of traveling alone or fears of traveling — you are not alone! On our senior group tours, you are not left alone; we stick together, yet we do have free time to walk amongst the attractions for your own memories. We visit the best of the best destinations, and you have a group leader from Lee County Council on Aging, someone safe from home.

Group trips are hassle free, we plan the trip.

Once your down payment is in, you can make

payments, pay in full, whatever you choose. The cost covers everything on the trip: your transportation, lodging, breakfast and dinner (except for lunches and stops along the way) and entry to our attractions! The only money you’ll need is for souvenirs that you may want, and any extras. I bet you didn’t know that!

Did I tell you about the social benefit? You’ll get to meet so many new friends! You also get to share the stories with someone while on the tour bus traveling back to the hotel or on the way home. Maybe

they saw a different part of the statue that you didn’t, maybe you captured a moment on your camera that you wanted to share with someone, and now you can. I cannot tell you enough about the rewards of meeting and being with so many neat people.

Ready to go to Washington D.C., Nashville, Mackinac or Ireland? Call or email me and let’s get the ball rolling!

Marisa Perales 815-288-9236 or lccoaoffice@comcast.ne

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

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

Make you reservations now — a busy weekend in the Quad Cities! A Trip to the “Silver Belle Social” at the Festival of Trees, a night at the Isle Casino Resort, and a Holiday Cruise on the Celebration Belle!

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November Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

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

November 1-5 MONDAY: Country meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables, whole grain dinner roll, peaches. TUESDAY: chicken patty, whole grain wheat bun, peas & carrots, potato wedges, pineapple. WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti, with meat sauce, green beans, cauliflower, whole grain garlic bread, apricots. THURSDAY: A) crispy fish sand., whole grain wheat bun\tartar, mac & cheese, peas, diced pears , B) turkey/minestrone.

FRIDAY: Cheesy beef taco, whole grain flour tortilla, lettuce\tomato, Spanish rice with beans, fresh fruit, taco sauce

November 8-12 MONDAY: Chicken Parmesan, pasta with marinara, Sicilian blend veg, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears.

TUESDAY: Sausage gravy, with whole grain biscuit, hash brown potato, 2 sausage patties, orange juice.

WEDNESDAY: Polish sausage, sauerkraut, potato wedges, baked beans, chilled applesauce, whole grain hot dog bun. THURSDAY: Beefaroni, green beans, cauliflower, whole grain garlic bread , apricots. FRIDAY: A) Pepper steak, mashed potatoes./gravy, glazed carrots, whole grain wheat bread (1), Mandarin oranges, B) Turkey/vegetable.

November 15-19 MONDAY: Hamburger patty, whole grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend veggies, diced peaches.

TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast, au gratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, whole grain dinner roll, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes/gravy, California-blend veggies, whole grain wheat bread (1), apricots. THURSDAY: Sweet and sour, meatballs, fluffy rice, blended veggies, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears. FRIDAY: A) tuna noodle, casserole, broccoli\carrots, pineapple tidbits, whole grain dinner

roll, B) chicken salad/tomato

November 22-26 MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes/ gravy, steamed peas, whole grain dinner roll, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY: meatloaf, cheesy potatoes, Brussels sprouts, whole grain wheat bread (1), diced pears. WEDNESDAY: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes/gravy, winter blended vegetables., whole grain wheat bread (1), pumpkin dessert bar. THURSDAY: Closed, Friday: Closed.

November 29-30 MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes/gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, mandarin oranges.

TUESDAY: sweet/sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry veggies, whole grain dinner roll, apricots, chicken 8-ounce low-fat milk served with all lunches

November 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.

November 1-5 MONDAY: Sloppy Joe, oven potatoes, peas and carrots, bun. TUESDAY: spaghetti, green beans, peaches, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Turkey teazzini, peas, apple sauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, green beans, wheat bread.

November 8-12 MONDAY: Chili dog, oven potatoes, baked beans, wheat bun. TUESDAY: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Beef and noodles,

green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: CLOSED for veterans day, FRIDAY: Tuna & noodles, peas, fruit, wheat bread.

November 15-19 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, wheat bun.

November 22-26 MONDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, fruit. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo pasta, spinach, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing , green beans, pumpkin pie, wheat bread. THURSDAY: CLOSED for Thanksgiving, FRIDAY: CLOSED for Thanksgiving.

November 29-30 MONDAY: Pulled pork sandwich, cheesy potatoes, peas and carrots, bun. TUESDAY: Spaghetti, peas, peaches, wheat bread.

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Fares: (within county)

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

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult): 50 cents one way People age 6 to 59 years: $2 one way Seniors or individuals with a disability: Donation suggested (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program) Out-of-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 25 cents per mile Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

Fares: (within zip code) Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult): $1 one way People age 6 to 59 years: $2 one way Seniors or individuals with a disability: $1 one way (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program) Out-of-town trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 35 cents per mile Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday 888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL LCCOA ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-288-9236 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

“Back in My Day” Deadline for submissions is Nov. 10.

Writings, musings, reminiscences, quotes, wise sayings, funny stories, recipes, fisherman’s tales, hunting adventures, etc., are all fair game for this collection. Get your submissions in to us now! Drop them off or mail them to LCCOA, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021. You also may e-mail them to lccoa@comcast.net.

Quilts for Veterans free raffle drawing 11 a.m. Nov. 11, Veterans Day Members of the First Congregational United Church of Christ of Lee Center, Dorothy Szewczyk and Sandy Wittenauer , donated lap quilts to be raffled off for veterans, in respect and gratitude for their service. Winners need not be present to win! To enter a Veteran in this FREE raffle, just call, drop off or email the veteran’s name and phone number.

Covid vaccine info for seniors Call the Lee County Health Department at 815-2843371 to make an appointment to get your Covid-19 vaccinations.

2022 membership drive begins We will begin to send out the announcement of our 2022 Membership Campaign during the last week in November.

Special Events in Whiteside County Holiday closings

Yoga

The WCSC will be closed November 11, 25 and 26.

Thursday, Nov. 4 & 15 at 10 a.m.

Yoga is back as requested! Membership is required!

Masks are mandatory — no exceptions! Class size is limited to 8 persons. You 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.

Fancy Feet Foot Clinic November 3 and 10 from 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.

SCUG (Sauk Computer Users Group) November 20

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

TRIAD Meeting November 17 at 12:30 p.m.

Come and join a group that is all about senior citizen safety. This group is composed of public safety, community agencies and senior citizens. Everyone is welcome. Meeting location to be determined. Please reach out to Beth at bsterk@wc-seniorcenter.org if you would like to participate

TRANSPORTATION

Want to book a ride? Here’s how Need a ride to the store for groceries or essentials? How about going to the post office or just a friend’s house for the day? Are you in need of going to the Food Pantry? LCCOA Senior Transportation can take you where you need to go, $1 each way (in-town rides) for seniors, 60+. This is cheaper than using your own gas!

If you're ready to book a ride, follow these simple steps ...

1. Gather the following information ...

A. Location B. Time • How long do you need to be there?

• An end time must be given for pick up for any type of trip, except for medical 2. Call LCCOA Call Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 and ask for transportation and give our friendly

dispatcher the information.That’s it!

Need a ride to your medical appointment?

1. Do you have Medicaid? Proceed to step 2. If not, skip to step 3.

2. If you have Medicaid and this is a medical appointment ...

A. Please call First Transit at 877-725-0569 B. Provide your Medicaid number, appointment location and time to the First Transit operator.

Retrieve the authorization number that the operator provides you during the call.

3. Gather the following information ...

A. Appointment time B. Appointment address 4. Call LCCOA Call Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 and ask for transportation and give the friendly dispatcher your appointment time and appointment address.

5. VERY IMPORTANT! When your medical appointment is completely finished, call 815-288-9236 (LCCOA) and ask for transportation. Let us know that you are done and we will send a vehicle for you. We thank you in advance for your patience. That’s it!

Reminder Calls

A day prior to your ride, you will received an automated phone call or text at approximately 2 p.m. with your pick- up time The day of the ride, you will receive a phone call or text 15 minutes ahead of time.

PLEASE NOTE that when requesting a ride to any destination to and from, your ride may be delayed due to other riders or unforeseen circumstances. We do try to make every accommodation we can, however it is not always possible. Thank you for understanding.

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

Special Events at Lee County Council on Aging

OUTREACH

GOLDEN ECHO

Outreach: A look ahead

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, Oct 27, 2021

12 COVID

While we are currently in the heat of this year’s Annual Open Enrollment for Medicare Part D plans and Medicare Advantage Plans, we want to remind you of some upcoming programs to be thinking about as this year begins to come to a close and the New Year comes to a head.

Benefit Access Application

Vaccine updates and information Boosters

The Illinois Department of Public Health has adopted CDC Recommendations for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine boosters This updated interim guidance from CDC allows for millions of Americans who are at highest risk for COVID-19 to receive a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 booster shot to help increase their protection.

The CDC recommends ...

• People 65 years and older and residents in longterm care settings should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series.

• People age 50-64 with underlying medical conditions should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series.

• People age 18-49 with underlying medical conditions may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks, and • People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks.

HHS launches hotline to improve access to 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.

More info: acl.gov/dial, 888-677-1199 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., or DIAL@n4a.org

Vaccine verification

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has launched an immunization portal, Vax Verify, that will allow Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record. Vax Verify can be accessed at https://idphportal.illinois.gov.

Better known as the license plate discount application, this program, administered through the Illinois Department on Aging, provides qualified individuals with a license plate discount on one renewal sticker, per household, per year and runs for a two year period at a time.

For New Applicants ...

• Call to discuss program and provide personal data if new client.

• Drop off, email, fax or mail the following: Proof of income, Federal 1040 form, Schedule 1 and Schedule D (if applicable), 1099’s for all income reported We will complete your application and call you once approved.

For Previous Applicants ...

• Call to determine your renewal period to reapply.

• Drop of, email, fax or mail proof of income (same as above) We will complete your application and call you once approved.

All About ITAC

Are you having trouble hearing on your cellphone or landline phone? Do you find yourself often asking what someone said, just agreeing

with them, or saying “okay” because you didn’t really catch what they said? If that sounds familiar then perhaps it’s time for you to get an amplified phone for your home or a Bluetooth amplified device for your cellphone. It’s simple, it’s free and you can count on us, as the Lee County’s area test site, to help you find the best piece of equipment for you.

For New Applicants ...

• Schedule an appointment • Bring your phone bill and ID (proof of residency) • Test the equipment with us (phones) • Return the physician’s form to us if haven’t yet • Receive new phone or Bluetooth equipment in mail in about 2 weeks For Renewal Applicants ...

Did you know that you can actually renew your equipment every 3 years? That’s right, we can re-test you to see if the same piece still works the best (if still available) or if a newer piece of equipment may work better for you.

• Call to verify your renewal time frame and schedule an appointment if able • Test the equipment with us (phones) • Receive new phone or Bluetooth equipment in mail in about 2 weeks

How to reach Outreach

You can reach us at 815-288-9236 and ask for Outreach to learn more. You can also reach out to us via email at lccoaoutreach1@comcast.net. We look forward to assisting you soon! Until then, have a Happy Thanksgiving!

License discounts, amplified phones, Medicare — Outreach can help Do you need help with a license sticker discount, an amplified phone or have Medicare questions? The Outreach Dept. at WCSC can help!

We have a team of trained SHIP Certified Counselors to assist you. Call us at 622-9230, ext. 194.

Discount available for registration sticker

The Benefit Access Application, offered through the IDOA, is an online-only application.

You must be 65 years of age, or able to prove disability status, and fall within the income guideline, using the prior tax season (form 1040) and accompanying documents. If you don’t file income taxes, then we will need all 1099’s and other income from that year. All income is counted including your full Social Security.

Income guidelines are $33,562 for singles, $44,533 for couples and $55,500 for a 3-person household.

Call WCSC at 622-9230, ext. 194, to complete your application.

ITAC can amplify your life

Amplified phones and Bluetooth devices are available free of charge to those who have an

already established land-line or cellular phone.

This free program is governed by Illinois law and offered through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation(ITAC). To qualify, you must complete an application, provide proof of Illinois residency, supply current bill of proof of pre-paid service and be certifies as hard of hearing. The WCSC is a testing center. Please call 622-9230, ext.

194, to schedule your appointment. No walk-ins will be taken at this time. Covid pre-screening questionnaire and a temperature screening will take place at door No. 4 on the day of your appointment.

Open Enrollment for Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans

There are a few appointments slots remaining for Open Enrollment. We can assist you by running a non-biased Plan-Finder comparison.

Please call 622-9230, ext. 194, to schedule your appointment. You may also compare plans yourself by going to the Mymedicare.gov website or by calling 1-800-Medicare.