We will host a steak and eggs
Vets Breakfast on Friday, Nov. 14 at 9 a.m. We are strongly encouraging RSVP’s for this event! We want to give a huge thank you to OnCall Imaging in Rock Falls, Sterling American Legion, Rock Falls American Legion, Resthave in Morrison, and all of the wonderful volunteers who help with the breakfast!
Executive Director
By Susie Welch
November brings laughter, tradition, and gratitude to the Council on Aging
November at the Council on Aging is shaping up to be a month filled with laughter, community spirit, and the warmth of holiday traditions.
We’ll kick things off with a dose of humor as the Extension Office visits at 10 a.m. Nov. 25 to present The Funnier Side of Aging. A little laugh-
Executive Director
By Emily Hammer
We want to thank everyone on our Board of Directors! All of the members on our board are volunteers who take time out of their busy schedules to help better our Senior Center and Public Transpor-
ter goes a long way, and this lighthearted program is sure to lift spirits.
While Tom Wadsworth will be taking November off, we’re looking ahead to his next presentation on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 1 p.m. — “How Dixon Became Dixon.” Mark your calendars — you won’t want to miss it!
Caregivers, don’t forget our Support Group meets on Tuesday, Nov. 4. This is a valuable opportunity to share experiences, learn resources, and find encouragement in the company of others who understand the challenges and rewards of caregiving.
Later in the month, on Monday, Nov. 24, at 10 a.m., the halls of our Center will come alive with holiday cheer during our annual Deck the Halls event. Cookies and hot
chocolate — complete with all the toppings — will keep the decorators fueled as we transform the center into a festive wonderland. Whether you come to show off your creative talents or simply enjoy the company, it’s always a highlight of the year. Together, we’ll prepare the Center for one of our biggest community celebrations: Santa’s Workshop and the Community Breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 6.
We also pause this month to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. In observance of Veterans Day, the Center will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11. While fresh produce distribution is canceled for the day, our regular activities — chair yoga, line dancing, Workout Wednesday, and access to exercise bikes — will be available the rest
of the month and continue to offer seniors a chance to stay active and engaged.
November reminds us that laughter, gratitude, and togetherness are at the heart of healthy aging. We invite you to join us in celebrating the season and making memories at the Council on Aging.
As the holidays draw near, I’m reminded of the strength of this community and the joy that comes when we gather, whether it’s for a laugh, a workout, or a cup of cocoa while hanging ornaments. Thank you for being part of our Council family. Your presence, your time, and your support make this Center not just a building, but a true home for seniors across Lee County.
See you soon, Susie
tation. The next board meeting is Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 12:30 p.m. in the dining room. See you then!
Golden Meals is a local nonprofit organization that provides $3.25 meals to our 60-plus senior community and $6.25 for our 59-andyounger community, Monday through Thursday at our site. Please watch the menu calendar as they will be providing meals on select Fridays. The Golden Meals calendar will be posted on our Facebook page and sent out in our monthly member’s newsletter.
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 treat-
Thank you to everyone who has been coming for lunch! The turnouts have been great, and the food is always super yummy!!
Appointments are available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. For any questions, please call our Outreach Department at 815-622-9230, ext. 131
Want to find out what’s new for 2026-Part D Medicare plans, or if your current drug plan is changing? Our counselors are seeing increased costs for many plans. Let
ment 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.
our Certified SHIP Counselors help you find one that is suitable for your needs. Please call WCSC for an appointment.
Millions of people living in the United States take care of a friend or family member with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. No matter what kind of caregiver you are, taking care of another person can be overwhelming at times. One tip for caregivers: Be patient and try not to show frustration. Speak calmly. Listen to the person’s concerns and avoid arguing.
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.
ALL SENIORS WELCOME — MEMBERSHIP NOT REQUIRED!
For more information on any of these trips, call the Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230.
APRIL 28-30, 2026
Join us for a three-day, two-night stay in Chicago, featuring with tours to the Museum of Science and Industry, 360 Chicago, a Skyline Cruise on Lake Michigan,
Navy Pier, Field Museum, and a night of dinner and entertainment! Please call Devon for more information! We are working on a winter day trip — keep an eye out! Questions or comments about trips? Please call the Center at 815-622-9230.
ALL SENIORS WELCOME — MEMBERSHIP NOT REQUIRED! For more information on any of these trips, please call Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS TRIP HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO APRIL 2026
Trip includes evening shows: “Legends in Concert” at the Alabama Theatre, “Music Memories” at the Greg Rolwes Legacy Theatre, “Le Grande Cirque” at Broadway Theater, and “The Man of a Thousand Voices” at Asher Theatre. Also enjoy Barefoot Landing, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade. This is a Diamond Tours trip.
MAY 14-26, 2026
Trip includes: 13 days and 12 nights in Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow, Belfast, Derry, and Dublin, and 19 meals. Highlights include: Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, St. Andrews, Loch Ness Cruise, Urquhart Castle, Distillery Visit, Glasgow, Belfast, Titanic Museum, Giant’s Causeway,
Derry, sheepdog demonstration, Cider Farm tour, and Dublin. On the seventh day, we will ferry across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Ireland!
Cost per person until Nov. 15, for members and nonmembers: Single occupancy: $7,349 / Double occupancy: $6,149 / Triple occupancy: $6,049
OCT. 28-NOV. 6, 2026
Trip includes 10 days and 9 nights, with 12 meals (8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 dinners). Highlights of the trip will include a visit to Rome, the Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Assisi, Perugia, Cortona, Florence, Venice, Murano Island, Lake Como, Chianti Winery and a cooking class. We will stay overnight in Rome, Perugia, Florence, Venice, and Como. This is a Collette tour.
100 W. SECOND ST., DIXON, IL, 61021
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday
Main number: 815-288-9236
Transportation: 815-288-9236 (7 a.m.-5 p.m.)
E-mail: info@leecoaging.org
Online: www.leecountycouncilonaging.net and on Facebook
POST HOUSE BALLROOM 815-288-0892 Online: www.posthouseballroom.net
OUTREACH DEPARTMENT
Outreach services and free phones for hearing impaired
Outreach hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
LCCOA BOARD MEMBERS & OFFICERS
Dianne Frye — Chair | Marcus Cox — Vice chair Kelli Chambers — Board Secretary
Board members: Amanda Carroll, Terry Christian, Greg Currens, June Fordham, Alisa Wolf
LCCOA SENIOR TRANSPORTATION 815-288-9236 (press 1)
REAGAN MASS TRANSIT
Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday 888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117
Fares: (within zip code)
Ages 5 & under (must be accompanied by an adult): $1 one way Ages 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, maximum $5.
Cost person until April 29, 2026, for members and nonmembers: Single occupancy:
$5,949 / Double occupancy:
$4,949 / Triple occupancy: $4,899. A deposit of $698 will hold your seat. Please note: These rates do not include optional trip insurance.
To get on our email list for trips, let us know at trips@ leecoaging.org. For more information call Cathy Reglin at 815 288-9236.
1207 W. NINTH ST., STERLING, IL 61081
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday Information: 815-622-9230 Toll-free: 888-622-9230
Transportation: 815-625-7433
Email: info@wc-seniorcenter.org Online: www.wc-seniorcenter.org and on Facebook. AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER (ADRC) 815-622-9230
OUTREACH DEPARTMENT
Outreach services and free phones for hearing impaired. Satellite locations are by appointment only. Please call 815-622-9230 to schedule your appointment.
WCSC BOARD MEMBERS AND OFFICERS
Karla Burn — President | Chris Nolin — Vice President Lyndi Lemay— Secretary | Ronda Borgmann — Treasurer
Board members: Joe Strabela-Bright, Pam Fluck, Le Hartman, John Booker, Julie Morse, Marge Sadowski, Gene Jacoby, and Butch Hannan
WHITESIDE COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
815-625-7433
Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday
Fares: No charge for stops within Whiteside County, but a suggested donation of $2 is appreciated. Out-of county trips can be arranged, subject to availability, for $4. We don’t accept Medicaid at this time.
We had 60 Veterans at our Vets Breakfast in October. See you all Nov. 14 at 9 a.m. for steak and eggs!
Left: We co-hosted Business After Hours for the Sauk Valley Chamber on Oct. 17. Congratulations to our basket winner, and thank you to all who attended!
Right: We LOVE to host with an amazing charcuterie board! We had great company, good eats, and drinks at Business After Hours!
Cindy Barton
Vickki Bryant
Constance Dorathy
Mary Foskitt
Sheryl Franklin
Anita Hannigan
Judith Heald
THANK YOU’S
Kim McMahon of Citadel
Sami Wiggins of Castor
Karla Burn of Resthave
Chris Meier of Rock River Hospice
Lifescape
OnCall Imaging
Sauk Valley Food Bank
Riverbend
Sauk Valley Bank Volunteers
Rock Falls American Legion
Sterling American Legion
Gene and Cathy Jacoby
JoDawn Lehman
Bob Schwindenhammer
We had a full trolley for our trip to Galena! Shopping, sightseeing, and good eats were had by all!
Charlotte Houzenga
Almetia Johnson
Sharon Meagher
Butch Hannan
VOLUNTEERS
Charles Atchley
Linda Barber
Barbara Becker
Chris Brown
Adela Cantu
Sterling Woodworks — Scott Hibbard
Larry Fisher
Cindy Olson
April Ransom
Michael Ransom
Marilyn Kollie
Chris Leisner
Norma Medrano
Victor Medrano
Marilyn Meller
Louann Meyer
Becky Meyers
Jewelene Pratt
THANK YOU to all of the volunteers who help with our weekly Food Pantry! We truly could not do it without you!!
Peggy Romanelli
Ralph Romanelli
Bonnie Stradley
Bonnie Woods
Nazir Qureshi
Jeanette Rhoades
Don Riva
Neal Shipley
Diane Tackett
Gary Tompkins
Jon Wetzell
Mary Lou Wells
LCCOA welcomes members
Roger Belly
Craig Cuolin
Jan Gooch
Doug Hoyle
Anita Marsha
Beth Pool
Judy Sharkey
Becky Sjoerdsma
Dale Sjoerdsma
Tina Treivio
Wendy Willett
Judi and Phil Callison
Mary Barnett
Mauren Broers
Laura Brooks
Amanda Carroll
Kelli Chambers
Terry Christian
Marcus Cox
Greg Currens
Nancy Fifelski
Dixon Food Pantry
June Fordham
Joe Fornero
Dianne Frye
Nancy Gates
Mary Holder
Laura Hoyle
Glen Hughes
Mary Kathryn Stenzel
Linda Kish
Gyrlee Kobler Kreider
Dan Leaka
Roberta LeMoine
Nancy Lohse
Shirley Lohse Delight Hart Pitman
Tina Maldonado
Kathy Marine
Sarah Mayer
David Nelson
Cathy Reglin
Mary Thomas
Nancy Wadsworth
Tom Wadsworth
Josie Whaley
Alisa Wolf Allure
First Assembly of God Church Help At Home
Discover Dixon
Dixon Library NIAAA
Reagan Mass Transit
Yoga
Rock River Garden Club
Heritage Square Center Stage
Sauk Valley Food Bank
The Lee County Council on Aging Board President and Executive Director team up to add a fresh coat of paint to the ramp leading to the Post House Ballroom, part of ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and keep the historic building looking its best.
One dedicated crafter traveled all the way from out of state to join the fun and spend time with her girls during the Lee County Council on Aging’s event.
Friday Nov. 14 — 10:30 a.m.
Sponsored by Allure. Win valuable prizes and stay for lunch, served to those 60 and over (reservations needed for lunch).
Monday, Nov. 17 — 1-3 p.m.
Writers and want-to-be writers meet every third Monday, this month in the dining room at LCCOA. Bring a short life story, essay, poem, or other work to share. Everyone is welcome!
Wednesday, Nov. 19 — 11 a.m.
Friday Nov. 21 — 11 a.m.
Do you enjoy solving the puzzles while watching Wheel of Fortune? Come to the Center and win prizes. Want to buy vowels? Bring quarters!
Friday, Nov. 21 — 9 a.m.
Help Brandan as he leads a group of seniors in a tour of Lee
County breakfast stops once a month. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and what a great way to get out into our community and make new friends — then come back to the Center to play Wheel of Fortune! The only requirement is you must be a senior and be responsible for your own bill and transportation. RSVP to 815-288-9236
Nov. 24 — 10 a.m.
Come decorate the Center for Christmas. Cookies and hot chocolate with all the trimmings will be served.
Tuesday Nov. 25 — 10 a.m.
Sponsored by Extension Office. Looking at the funny side of aging Foot clinic
Tuesday Nov. 25
Fancy Feet will be at the Center every month to trim nails and give foot massages. Cost is $25. Call Deb at 815-2130324 for an appointment.
The Center will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11 for Labor
Day and Thursday and Friday, Nov. 27 & 28, for Thanksgiving.
Community breakfast fundraiser
Saturday, Dec. 6 — 10 a.m.
In the Posthouse Ballroom
Saturday Dec. 6 — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tom Wadsworth presents Monday, Dec. 9 — 1 p.m.
Popcorn will be served
Friday Jan. 23, 2026 — 11 a.m.
Sponsored by Heritage Square. This is a great opportunity to win prizes by guessing the price of the items without going over! Immediately after we will be serving lunch to those 60 and over (reservations required for lunch).
Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 — 12:30 p.m.
Sponsored by Help At Home
Monday, Nov. 3 — 12:30 p.m.
Join us for a yummy Mocktail and a game with Devon — you won’t regret it!
Breakfast Club
Friday, Nov. 7 — 9 a.m.
We will be meeting at Hardees in Rock Falls.
Bible Study
Monday, Nov. 10 & 17 — 1 p.m.
This will be led by Pastor Chris.
Free meal
Friday, Nov. 14 — Noon
Our free meal will be followed by karaoke and birthday cake.
Vets breakfast
Friday, Nov. 14 — 9 a.m.
This will be out LAST Veterans Breakfast of the year. From December thorough May, we will host Vets Coffee and Donuts!
Tuesday, Nov. 18 — 12:30 p.m.
Join Devon for a craft to take home or for a gift for someone!
Tuesday, Nov. 18 — 10 a.m.
Please join us to share all of your new trip ideas and hear of the places we will be heading to in 2026!
Monday, Nov. 24 — Noon
Seniors often need support to maintain sobriety. The Senior Center is a great place with compassionate employees who are able to interact with clients and help them get the resources they need to stay healthy and sober.
Coffee, cookies and convo
Tuesday, Nov. 25 — 12:30 p.m.
Please join Devon for this great social event. See you then!
Tuesdays — 12:30 p.m.
Join us every Tuesday to play some board games, have a snack, and meet new friends! If you have a favorite game you like to play, you are more than welcome to bring that in for us to play! See you then!
Fridays — 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Need some help with that pesky cell phone? Each Friday, Devon will be available to answer any questions or help with things on your iPhone or Android cell phone — no appointment needed!
We will be closed on Nov. 11 for Veterans Day and Nov. 27 & 28 for Thanksgiving.
Transportation — 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Call 815-288-9236 for a ride to doctor and dentist appointments, drug stores, grocery stores, hardware stores, beauty salons, barber shops, and trips to the Center.
Congregate lunches — Noon-12:30 p.m.
Congregate meals from Lifescapes for those age 60 and over. Call the day before by 9:45 a.m. to reserve your spot.
Library — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stop by and see the new donation of books at LCCOA, courtesy of Dixon Public Library; self-checkout and return to receptionist policy.
DVD Library — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stop by and see the DVDs at LCCOA. courtesy of Kreider; self-checkout and
return policy.
Beverage Center — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The coffee pot is always on at the Center, along with refreshing ice water. Check out our pop fridge fundraiser for accessibility repairs needed at the Center.
Exercise with Brandan — Come join our free workout program! Brandan is available to assist you with our recumbent exercise bicycles. Thirty-minute appointments are available 10-11 a.m.
Chair Yoga for seniors — 11 a.m.
Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m. (reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day).
Rummikub — 1 p.m.
Tuesdays
Pool table open hours — 9 a.m. to noon
Fresh produce — 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Please bring your own bags Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m. (reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day).
OSF Meals — 3:30 p.m. Provided for Lee County community.
Wednesdays
Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m. (reservations needed before 9:45 a.m. for the next day).
Pool table open hours — 1-3 p.m.
Chair toga for seniors — 1 p.m.
Thursdays
Pool table open hours — 9 a.m. to noon
Lunch — Noon to 12:30 p.m. (reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day).
Chair yoga for seniors — 1 p.m.
Crafters — 1 p.m.
OSF meals — 3:30 p.m.
Provided for Lee County Community
Fridays
Exercise with Brandan
Come join our free workout program! Check out our new additional equipment, thanks to Lumzy Yoga! Brandan is available to assist you with our recumbent exercise bicycles. Thirtyminute appointments are available 10-11:30 a.m.
Lunch — 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (reservations needed by 9:45 a.m. for the next day).
Euchre — 12:15 p.m.
Mexican Train Dominoes — 1 p.m.
For the latest updates and daily activities, please go to our “Whiteside County IL Senior Center” Facebook page
Bible Study
Monday, Nov. 10 & 17 at 1 p.m.
Come one, come all! This group is nondenominational and open to anyone! The more the merrier!
Nov. 7, 14 & 21 — 12:30 p.m.
We have a great lineup of films, and you can’t beat delicious, fresh-popped popcorn! Computer/Technology assistance
Monday-Thursday — 8:30-11:30 a.m.
If you would like a specific appointment for one-on-one time, please call the Center and speak with Neal.
Bunco
Monday, Nov. 10 & 24 — 12:30 p.m
Wednesday, Nov. 12 & 26 — 12:15 p.m.
Bingo is a blast: great prizes, great people, and lots of fun! See you there! Please bring a $1 donation for the Food Pantry.
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 18 & 25 —
12:15-3:45 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 5 & 12 — 8 a.m. -2 p.m
Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 or Sharon at 815-718-5294 to set up an appointment.
Every Thursday — 1-3 p.m. (sign-ups start at noon, and must be in person)
Everyone can go through the closet weekly to get meat and other great items!
We are needing grocery bags, so if you have any we’ll gladly take them! We will host a double Food Pantry on Nov. 20!
Thursday, Nov. 6, 13 & 20 — 12:30-3:45 p.m.
This will take place in the dining room!
Tuesday, Nov. 4 18 & 25 — 12:30-3:45 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 3, 10, 17 & 24 — 1-3:45 p.m.
Wanting to learn a new skill? Our quilting group is happy to lend a hand with getting started!
Friday, Nov. 7, 14 & 21 — Advance classes 10-11 a.m. / beginners 11-noon Our line dancing group is moving and grooving with a great group of people lately! Not too sure about dancing? Pull a chair up and watch all of the fun and listen to great music!
Friday, Nov. 7, 14 & 21 — 12:30-3:45 p.m.
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday — 12:30-3:45 p.m.
Mondays 9-10 a.m. \ Tuesdays 1-3:45 p.m. \ Wednesdays 9-10 a.m. Thursdays from 1-3:45 p.m.
Tuesdays & Thursdays — 10-11 a.m.
This group is growing and has really become a large event! This yoga class accommodates all levels of balance,
intensity, and range of motion. The Center can provide a yoga mat and chair if you do not have your own. See you there!
Wednesday, Nov. 5 — 12:15 p.m.
Eat your Smarties and head over to the Center to put your skills to the test!
Wednesday, Nov. 19 — 12:15 p.m. Buy a vowel and solve our puzzle! See you then!
Friday, Nov. 14 — 9 a.m.
Please join us for breakfast, sponsored by OnCall Imaging in Rock Falls, Sterling American Legion, and Rock Falls American Legion! Thank you for your service!! This month will be steak and eggs! RSVP’s are GREATLY appreciated!!
Tuesdays — 12:30 p.m.
Join us every Tuesday to play a new board game and meet some new friends! Have a game you love to play and want to share it with others? Bring it on in and teach us how to play!
If you have diabetes, chronic heart failure and/or a cardiovascular disorder, UnitedHealthcare helps you get the most from your benefits with UnitedHealthcare Complete Care.
Join us for a Medicare plan presentation: Space is limited. RSVP today.
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Oct 25, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Holiday Inn Express
301 E 2nd St
Rock Falls
Nov 12, 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express 301 E 2nd St
Rock Falls
Oct 25, 2025 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express 301 E 2nd St
Rock Falls
Nov 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Holiday Inn Express 301 E 2nd St
Let’s connect today
Stacey Wallace
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