SVM_Golden Echo_112520

The Lee County Council on Aging, Lee-Ogle Transportation System, Lifescape Community Services, Whiteside County Senior Center and Whiteside County Public Transportation will be closed Dec. 24 & 25 for Christmas, and Dec. 31 & Jan. 1 for the New Year holiday

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 13 • DECEMBER 2020 • EDITION 14

The holiday seasons are still here — they’re just different!!

Wishing

Have safe and happy holidays ...

From the staff at LCCOA

you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!

From all of us at WCSC & WCPT

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

Outreach........................................................5 Weekly, Monthly Activities..........................8

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

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

GOLDEN ECHO

2

From the LCCOA Executive Director

I remember Christmas in our wonderful old Victorian home in Europe. The week prior to Christmas, the town would be buzzing with excitement and happy faces.

I often thought, wouldn’t it be wonderful if every day of the year was like this; we would truly live in Pleasantville, where everyone and everything would be perfect.

As the days drew closer to Christmas the thrill of the anticipation of what Christmas morning would bring; stirred in my heart.

The vendors on the street would be roasting chestnuts, and the smell of cinnamon buns from

the local bakery floated through the air drawing me closer and closer to the little store. The lines were long, but you didn’t really mind; it gave you time to catch-up on the news of the neighborhood.

On Christmas morning all the church bells would start ringing and everyone from every house would stand outside to wish each other a “Happy Christmas”.

Grandmother would shoo my grandfather and I out of the house; so she could begin preparing for Christmas dinner. What a wonderful and simpler time; and just maybe this pandemic is the wake-up call that we need to stop the hustle and bustle and get back to enjoying our friends, family

through that door. When we reflect on that, it seems as if time went by rather quickly. This may have been our “spring” and “summer” seasons?

Maybe as you retired and slowed down a bit, you entered your “fall” season? You began to observe the simple beauty and the blessings around you. Maybe you have noticed your adult children are turning into y-o-u and your grand-babies resemble your children as babies?

As Pablo Picasso once said,

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away!”

With this being the holiday season, it is the perfect time to discover the joy of giving! There are many simple ways you can bring joy to others. Doing things to make other people happy is a selfless act. If you want to bring joy to someone else’s day, try one of these ways; 1. Spend time with them. This might be hard during Covid, so maybe reach out to them by phone, Facetime or video chats?

2. Bake them something.

3. Send a card.

4. Compliment them.

5. Give them a small gift.

6. Be their Encourager.

You may or may not be in your “winter” yet, but it will be here

From the WCSC Assistant Director

By Beth Sterk I am writing this in the early days of November – we are encountering unseasonably warm weather and that prompted me to go from talking about “changes of seasons” in the weather to “changes of seasons” in life. Winter is upon us and I am asking what “season of life” are you in?

Life goes by quickly! For many of us, we started our lives by getting married and having babies – going from sleepless nights with a newborn, to sleepless nights waiting for your teenagers to walk

Holiday Season at LCCOA The Holiday season here at LCCOA is quite different this year. Our seniors are not buzzing around the center and sharing their holiday plans. The spirit of the holidays are still present at our center. LCCOA is busy planning for the holidays, with our Christmas tree contest, our new Senior magazine, Open Enrollment, our sidewalk sale, the membership drive and making phone calls to all our seniors. Don’t forget to check out our new trees, (donated by the Rock River Garden Club) and of course our new signs all around our building; which truly states we are the senior center and we are here to serve.

So as we prepare for the holidays, remember this too shall

By Susan Lawler

Christmas Past and Christmas Present

and neighborhoods. As we reflect on the past, hopefully we will learn to cherish the future and this holiday season.

pass, and life is good, there are so many kind people in our Community, and Lee County Council on Aging is always here to help in whatever way we can. We are not perfect; but we work hard to make sure we have researched every avenue to help our seniors . May God bless you and as we raise our glasses for a holiday cheer; let us thank God for the good things in life. Right now with Covid it so hard to see the light through the forest; but a new year is ahead of us, and we are optimistic that the strength of our seniors will pull us all through. Thank you seniors from all you have given us, your wisdom, your courage and above all your hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Lee County Council on Aging a place where you belong a place to call home.

Happy Holidays from everyone here at LCCOA, you are in our hearts and in our thoughts.

faster than we think. Don’t put things off. Do what you can today.

There is no promise that we may see all the seasons in our life, so live for today and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember. Life is a gift!

The way you live your life is a gift to those who come after.

Please remember that kindness is a gift that everyone can afford to give! The best season of the year ... Have a beautiful Christmas and cherish the gift of seasons in your life!!

On behalf of the Staff at WCSC and WCPT, we wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, Happy New Year!

Be well!

Beth Sterk Assistant Director

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.

LCCOA BRIEFS

WHITESIDE EVENTS

3

LCCOA Outreach helps local seniors with solutions to everyday problems. Call 815-288-9236.

Dixon VFW sponsors Buddy Check Programs – vets checking up on vets.

Call 800-273-8255.

Dixon American Legion sponsors Patients Like Me, where vets share personal stories, symptoms, treatments and programs. Call 816-756-3390.

KSB Dementia/Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meets the first and third Thursdays at Town Square, or via Zoom.

Call 815-285-5836.

Lifescape Services helps older adults choose lifestyles of dignity and quality.

Call 800-779-1189.

The Dixon Food Pantry strives to feed the hungry by distributing food items for cupboard, pantry and fridge. Call 1-815288-4848.

Dixon Golden Kiwanis meets by Zoom each Tuesday at 9 a.m. It’s a great opportunity to chat with other seniors and to join a wonderful group. Call 815-2881543.

Castor Home Nursing

NICIL

Heritage Woods

VITAS Hospice

A healthy turnout at the fair TRIAD wishes to thank all the people who came through our drive-through health fair at the mall Oct. 21. Thanks also to all the vendors who participated. It was a huge success and lots of information was shared!

CORA Physical Therapy

Gaffey flu shots

Send us a picture of your Christmas tree LCCOA is sponsoring a Christmas tree decorating contest, featuring YOUR trees!

Take a picture of your favorite Christmas tree and mail it or drop it off at the LCCOA office, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL; or e-mail it to lccoa@comcast.net Winners will be posted on Facebook and in the January issue of Golden Echo.

The deadline is Dec. 12.

Rock River Hospice

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

Catholic Charities

Sterling Police Dept., with Brinkley

WCSC phone numbers

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday

1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling

Transportation – 815-625-7433 • Information – 815-622-9230

Outreach services & free phones for hearing impaired

ADRC hours:

Outreach hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Monday Walk-ins from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

E-mail us at lccoa@comcast.net Visit us at www.leecountycouncilonaging.net or www.posthouseballroom.net or find us on Facebook

Citadel Sterling

Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Outreach and free phones for hard of hearing/ low vision 815-622-9230 Toll-free 888-622-9230

Email at info@wc-seniorcenter.org Go to wc-seniorcenter.org or follow us on Facebook.

The Emporium Thrift Store 115 E. Third St., Sterling • 815-535-0368

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Resources for seniors in Lee County

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS Thank you to WCSC volunteers

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. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations.

Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and non-monetary donations. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations.

Anderson Nature Center, Fulton Barb Peugh Beacon of Hope Hospice Carl Raunbuehler Carol Voss Castor Home Hospice CGH Home Nursing Citadel of Sterling Doran Everly Emelinda Howard Erie Public Library Gaffey Home Nusring Glenda MacLennan Heritage Woods of Sterling Hope Howell Hospice Compassus Janice Bell Javier Gomez Jennifer Boehm Jim Capp Joe Fornero Kathy Spotts Ken Hughes

United Way of Lee County Teen Turf – Eileen Piper Keri Olson Dixon Health Department EFSP Cindy Gabany Wipfli Bonnie O’Connell Heritage Square Roberta LeMoine Dixon Food Pantry Kristin Carlson Dolores Kness LaDonna Groshan Josey Whaley Cheryl Smith Lee County Health Department Nina Mardauss Illinois Department on Aging

Nancy Havener NIAAA Odell Public Library, Morrison Pat VanCoillie Prophet Manor, Prophetstown Regency Care of Sterling Resthave of Morrison Riverbend Food Bank Rock Falls Rehab Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG Shirley Schwartz Sylvia Snow Terry MacLennan Tom Rich United Way of Sterling Unity Hospice VITAS Hospice Joe Bright Karla Burn John Espinoza Al Campbell Michelle Miller

John Booker Cindy Wadsworth Emily Taylor Marty Waldshmidt Mary Hermes Maynard Hermes Thurlo Verbout Beverly Cassens Diana DeGroot Sue Haan Maxine Stern Helen Moore Mike Moore Kathy Siperly Karen VanHorn Royola Smith Gene Robbins Bonnie Stern Marilyn Scott Ruth Ramirez Bonnie Cramer

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2020:

Juan and Yolanda Delafuente 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. . You can mail your check to WCSC 1207 W. Ninth. St., Sterling, IL 61081.

THANK YOU for supporting your local senior center! We appreciate you!

ADOPT-A-RIDER PROGRAM

Help someone get a ride Whiteside County Public Transportation is a not-for-profit public transportation service for residents of ALL AGES throughout Whiteside County.

We have members of our community who are not able to get to important resources such as medical appointments, the grocery store, employment, education and many other resources.

Help a member of our community meet their needs this holiday season by adopting a rider. Your donation will support students working toward higher education, hard-working parents, dialysis patients, senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, friends, and family!

If you are interested in donating to this cause please complete the form at right:

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

Terry Stephenitch NIAAA Darla Foulker GoodFellows Johnson CPA Midland Bank Ben Gallentine Sauk Valley Media Dixon Township Rock Rver Garden Club Clara Harris Rusty Schrader Cameron Zies Jesse Ware Gwen Martindale Gyro Club Andy Cox Josie Almassy Dotty Zimmerman

Marty Hammonds Leydig Center Sue Johnson Phyllis Sutton Dennis Loescher Charlene Loescher Dorthy Szewczyk Steve Buzzard American Legion – Post 12 Tom McCarthy Phouxay Phachantry Phoufe Phachantry Donna Wellman Mary Holthaus John Holthaus A special thank you to all the wonderful supporters of LCCOA’s clothing drive who have donated anonymously.

LCCOA welcomes members Phil Callison Judi Callison Susan Lawler Samantha Harazin Marisa Perales

April Reed Aaliyah Baker Marty Hammonds Terry Christian Chelsea Steele

Connie Edson Michael Dingus Mary Lacy Jim Druien Donna Wellman

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.

Name____________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ I would like to donate: o $10 o $20 o $40 o $60 o $100 o Other $_______ Please mail or bring donations to: Whiteside County Public Transportation, Attn: Amy Dorathy 1207 W. Ninth St. — Sterling, IL 61081 Questions? Please contact Amy Dorathy at 815-625-7433 Happy holidays from all of us at WCPT! 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

Nina Mardauss

Cheryl Smith Terry Stephenitch

OUTREACH

Despite a challenging year, dedicated staff has still been able to help clients As we look back on the year we are about to leave behind we are reminded of how lucky and fortunate we have been in the past, especially by how humbling this last season has been. For your SHIP-certified counselors here at LCCOA and WCSC, it has been a very unusual season, full of an abundance of new procedures, policy and trials, but we have prevailed.

We have managed to still assist a large capacity of individuals throughout this pandemic, and more recently, in this nearly finished Open Enrollment Season. It has not always been easy finding new ways to help someone without the ability to just see them, face to face, and know that we can read their body language or see the glassing over of their eyes as we explain something. Yes, this enrollment period has been a chal-

lenge, but we have welcomed this challenge because it meant that we could still be here for you, yes, in a new and different way, but still here assisting those we so deeply care about. We’ve had a few bumps and bruises along the way but we keep finding new ways to make things better, so that we can better service our community of senior friends.

It is because of this that we want to send out a huge thank you to all those who we have been able to assist these past months: for your patience in our being able to get back to you all, for your kindness when we spoke; because you didn’t know we were having a rough day full of stress trying to figure out how we can fit just a few more people into our already oversized stacks of Part D’s and call backs. For those who asked how they could still make a donation

Sterling Hearing Aid Center Inc.

for our services, for all of you who trust us each year, to help you ensure you are in the best and most cost effective plan for you, Thank You. Thank you for your understanding that this is all new to us, just as it is for you. It is your understanding, patience and kindness that keep us moving forward and finding better ways to assist you and those that follow you. You are our reason for our being here. Thank you, all!

For those we were unfortunately unable to assist this year, please know we missed you! We have made it through and hopefully you reached out to Medicare directly as we suggested so that you still had some guidance. Thank you for your understanding, I know it wasn’t easy being told we were full and that things were being done differently than you are used to, so thank you. We do hope

to see you in 2021, we hope to assist you on your Part D next year.

As we move forward please remember to read our Golden Echo articles each month. Like our Facebook pages and check out our websites, because these places are where we post about updates, changes and how things are going, what our Outreach services will look like and so much more. We look to the future with excitement and motivation and hope that you do too!

May you soar as we wrap up and head out of 2020, and may we all let the light of the New Year find us more prepared, stronger, kinder, better educated, and lifted up! Thank You All!

Until next year, Your dedicated Outreach Staff Samantha, Lindsay, Wendy and Linda

All-Access

Print • Online • Mobile

603 Freeport Rd., Sterling, IL

815-626-3220 sterlinghearingaidcenter.com

Jones Funeral Homes Ask Us About Our Guaranteed Prearrangement Contracts

DIXON

204 S. Ottawa Ave • 288-2241

AMBOY

303 E Main St. • 857-2611

www.thejonesfh.com

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Outreach keeps reaching out

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

GOLDEN ECHO

6 AT WCSC

NOW OPEN KSB Center for Wound Healing At the KSB Center for Wound Healing, our approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies that aid and accelerate the healing process. Our center is staffed by a team of skilled clinicians with advanced training in wound care.

And the winner is ...

• DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS • VENOUS ULCERS • PRESSURE ULCERS • SURGICAL WOUNDS • ARTERIAL ULCERS • RADIATION WOUNDS • COMPROMISED SKIN GRAFTS AND FLAPS • CRUSH INJURIES • TRAUMATIC WOUNDS

For more information, call: 815-285-5814

Winter is right around the corner, now is the time to reserve your assisted living apartment at Liberty Court!

The Change of Seasons raffle basket winner is Marilyn Kollie. WCSC 2020 members were able to enter to win a basket filled with two wine glasses, non-alcoholic wine, snacks, a Jimmy John gift card, a beautiful sparkly infinity scarf, fall kitchen towels and a fragrant pumpkin spice candle. The winner was drawn November 17. Congratulations Marilyn!

HELP FOR SENIORS

Need some emotional support? Help is available At the WCSC, we recognize the many challenges people face during this pandemic, including increased mental health challenges. The Aging Network (IDOA) is known for rising above challenges and providing you with extra support during these unprecedented times. Here is more information on emotional support services which may help anyone in need: • The Warm Line is a team of Wellness Support Specialists who have experienced mental health andor substance use recovery in their own lives. The Warm Line is a source of support, if you just need to talk. Call 1-866-359-7593 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. At the main menu, select option 2.

• Call4Calm, Mental Health Support Hotline – The Illinois Department of Human Services’ Mental Health Division has launched a free-of-charge, emotional support text line, Call4Calm, for Illinois residents experiencing stress and mental health issues related to COVID-19. Individuals who would like to speak with a mental health professional can text “TALK” to 5-5-2-0-2-0, or for Spanish, “HABLAR” to the same number: 5-5-2-0-2-0. Once a resident sends a text to the hotline, they will receive a call from a counselor within 24 hours.

• IDoA has also published resources to help connect older and disabled Illinoisans with family and loved ones to prevent distress and feelings of social isolation. Those resources can be found on the IDOA.gov website.

We treat wounds of all types, including:

$500 OFF

your rent in December, January, and February Limited Number Of Apartments Available!

Liberty Court

Assisted Living & Memory Care 124 Liberty Court, Dixon, IL

SM-ST1829755

Call Kelly at 815.285.2000

AT LCCOA

7

LCCOA really is the senior center of Lee County. These new signs were done

by John Worley Signs of Dixon.

GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

New signs at the Senior Center

Do you know these nurses?

Do you recognize any of these women? Might one of them be your grandmother? This portrait of nurse graduates from the KSB School of Nursing was recently donated to LCCOA, but we have no year nor any names.

2205 Oak Grove Ave, Sterling (3 blocks N. of W. LeFevre) 815-625-7045 | www.hw-sterling-slf.com Managed by Gardant Management Solutions

Avonlea Cottage of Dixon

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Home-like Setting Smaller and Safer

Accepting NEW Residents

private and semi-private rooms available ~ Call to schedule a VISIT ~

• Secure Doors - keypad entrance/exits • 24/7 licensed Nurse AND CNA’s all shifts • Medical Doctor visits on-site - no waiting rooms • No LEVELS of Care Increases • Structured engaging activities • Respite Care - 2 nights to 30 days MOVE-IN • Staff Trained for Behaviors SPECIAL • Higher Staff to Resident ratio $1000 DEP OSIT WAIVED -- 2 Staff per 7 Residents for Novembe r December m and • Grant money for Respite ove-ins Under New Local Ownership

AvonleaDixon.com 815-288-6044

• Respite • Home Cooked Meals, Housekeeping, Laundry • Prevention and Sanitation

Enjoy the all the comforts of home at Heritage Woods during this cold winter!

Veterans • Hospice • Respite • Home Cooked Meals, Housekeeping, Laundry

• Prevention and Sanitation • Caregiver Support Group • Veterans • Hospice

• Prevention and Sanitation • Caregiver Support Group • Veterans • Hospice

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

GOLDEN ECHO

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Weekly activities and meetings: Lee County Council on Aging SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL ACTIVITIES AND LIFESCAPE MEALS HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-288-9236 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open cards 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 9 a.m. – Exercise 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – Outreach walk- in hours 10 a.m. – Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape Lunch served (Reservations)

1 p.m. – Rummikub Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open cards 8 a.m.-4:30p.m. – Computer lab 9 a.m. – Golden Kiwanis 9 a.m.– Senior Bowling at Plum Hollow 10-1 a.m. – Line dancing 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape Lunch

served (Reservations) 1 p.m. – Pinochle

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open cards 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 9 a.m. – Exercise 9 a.m. – Senior Bowling at Plum Hollow 10 a.m. – Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape Lunch served (Reservations)

PENDING Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open cards 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m. – Pinochle

1 p.m. – Crocheting and crafting 1 p.m. – Euchre Tournament Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open cards 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Computer lab 11:30 a.m. – Lifescape Lunch served (Reservations) 12:30 p.m. – Duplicate Bridge 1 p.m. – Dominoes

Weekly activities and meetings: Whiteside County Senior Center SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS, ALL SITES, ACTIVITIES AND CLINICS ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m.– Kings on Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 12:30 p.m. – Crochet/Knitting Club free lessons. See the Special Events listing on page XX for more information.

Tuesdays 8 a.m-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m.-noon – Commodities; must meet income guidelines 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:45 p.m. – Euchre; $3 to play; prizes; bring a snack.

12:45 p.m. – Scrabble; bring a snack

1 p.m. – Pool playing. Membership required Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m.– Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m. – Canasta 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 1 p.m. – Bingo; bring a canned good or $1 to play

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.-10 a.m. – Yoga: bring mat; membership required 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Lunch 12:30 p.m. – Hand and Foot game; bring a snack 1 p.m. – Pool playing. Membership required

PENDING

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – Cards, socializing, computer lab 10 a.m. – Kings on Corner cards 10 a.m. – Intermediate line dancing. Check to see where dancing 11 a.m. – Beginning line dancing 12:30 p.m. – Pinochle 12:45 p.m. – Mexican Train Dominoes; prizes; bring a snack.

Monthly activities and meetings: Lee County Council on Aging 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 815-288-9236 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

The LCCOA Outreach office is open, and our phone number is 815-288-9236.

The following scheduled appointments have been can-

PENDING

celed. Sorry, but COVID-19 protocols can’t always be followed outside out offices.

Dec. 3 10-11 a.m. – Paw Paw monthly SHIP site (by appointment only) Dec. 8 1-2 p.m. – Ashton monthly SHIP

site (by appointment only) Dec. 16 10-11 a.m. – Amboy monthly SHIP site (by appointment only) 11:15-11:45 a.m. – Sublette monthly

SHIP site (by appointment only) Dec. 28 10-11 a.m. – Countryside monthly SHIP site (by appointment only)

Monthly activities and meetings: Whiteside County Senior Center

PENDING

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.

DUE TO OPEN ENROLLMENT, WE ARE EXPERIENCING VERY HIGH CALL VOLUMES. PLEASE BE PATIENT! Thank you!

Dec. 7 9 a.m.-1 p.m.– ADRC Over-thephone assistance Dec. 14 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. – ADRC Over-the-

phone assistance Dec. 21 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – ADRC Over-thephone-assistance

Dec. 24 and 25 CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS Dec. 28 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – ADRC Over-thephone assistance

Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 CLOSED FOR THE NEW YEAR HOLIDAY

If you are interested in joining us for the above monthly activities, contact Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230 or 888-622-9230; or Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 or 855-407-9236.

Upcoming Trips Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021 The casino trip for Sept. 11 has been rescheduled to Wednesday, February 17, 2021. We are hopeful that motorcoach companies in Illinois will be able to travel by then to get us to the casino. Please stay updated by reading the ECHO. You may sign up for this trip by contacting the WCSC at 815-622-9230, ask for reception.

Savannah, Jekyll Island & Beaufort, SC April 24 – May 1, 2021 Cost: $1,089 for members, $1,139 for non-members, based on double occupancy Diamond Tours is honoring pricing.

Spring flowers will be in bloom! You will enjoy 8 nights lodging including 4 consecutive nights in the Savannah area along with 14 meals including 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners. This incredible trip includes a guided trolley tour of Savannah, followed by hop-on/hop-off privileges,, a guided tour of gorgeous Beaufort, SC, “Queen of the Carolina Sea Island”, plus a visit to Parris Island, an evening show of the famous Savannah Theatre, a guided tour of St. Simons Island and last but not least….a guided tram tour of Jekyll Island. Sign up for this trip by calling the WCSC.

Final payment due Feb 2021

We are back! Lee County Council on Aging presents Mackinac Island here we come!

June 7 -11, 2021 Cost: $545 for members, $575 for non-members LCCOA is planning a trip for to Mackinac Island, Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Kewadin Casino, Mackinaw Crossings, Soo Locks Cruise and a tour of Colonial Michilimackinac . This wonderful trip is for 5 days/4 nights. Includes 8 meals, guided tour of Mackinaw City, four nights lodging in Northern Michigan, motor coach, guided Carriage Tour on Mackinac Island, boat ride through the Soo Locks and much more. Contact Lee County Council on Aging at 815288-9236.

LCCOA presents ALASKA with Celebrity Cruises and a prenight in Seattle at the Grand Hyatt Aug. 26-Sept. 3, 2021 – 9 days/8 nights Cost: Starting at $2,944, based on double occupancy Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity that offers all the extras!

With provided transportation from Dixon to O’Hare, the flight, transpor-

BRIEFS Come shop our Sidewalk Sale Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, LCCOA is unable to have its annual Santa’s Workshop, but it will be adding many items from Santa’s Workshop to its Friday Sidewalk Sales. Children can buy gifts for their friends and family.

The Sidewalk Sales runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday, until it snows, at LCCOA.

Tell us about life back in the day LCCOA is announcing the creation of Back in My Day, a collection of your submissions.

Mail or e-mail us your ...

• Sayings from our parents, like “Because

tation to the Grand Hyatt hotel, a 3 hour morning city tour of Seattle, the cruise itself, and all return transportation. In addition to this you will be traveling with Samantha Harazin of our Outreach department as your group leader. Included with the cruise is a special on-board cocktail party, and 2 sail your way perks that can truly make it an all-inclusive vacation! Passports are required and deposit is due upon sign up to reserve your spot. Space is limited. For more information call Lee County Council on Aging at 815-2889236 and ask for Samantha.

Cruise the Caribbean Sea with us in 2021 Sept. 25-Oct 8, 2021 Cost: $2,750 for an outside cabin, $2,850 for balcony. Cost includes bus, transfers, hotel, and cruise (meals on ship) Are you ready for a vacation in 2021?

Don’t miss this opportunity to board

LCCOA annual membership drive No classes to attend. No monthly fees.

No telemarketers. No T-shirts to buy. Plus, discounts on LCCOA activities, events, trips.

Annual membership is only $20 per person, or $35 for two individuals in the same household.

Call LCCOA at 815-288-9236 for more information

Schedule Sept 25: Take a bus to Chicago and fly to Fort Lauderdale for an overnight stay Sept 26: Board the Celebrity Equinox Oct 8: Return home Cabins are limited, and prices will most likely increase as cruises start to open up again. Call the Whiteside County senior center at 815-622-9230 and ask for Glenda.

Five-Star Quality CMS Rated Skilled Nursing Facility

Thank you for your patience during the pandemic.

We’re here for you, so please call us for therapy and care information today!

WE SPECIALIZE IN...

I told you ... “ • Emotionally stirring poems or song lyrics • Mouth-watering Christmas cookie recipes • Stories that begin with, “Do you remember when we ... “ Call LCCOA at 815-288-9236 for more information.

the Celebrity Equinox to cruise the Caribbean Sea and enjoy 7 ports: St. Croix, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia,Grenada, Roseau and St. Kitt Celebrity Equinox is a Solstice-class cruise ship built by Meyer Werft in Germany. Celebrity Equinox is the second of the five Solstice-class vessels, owned and operated by Celebrity Cruises. She is a sister ship of Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Silhouette, and the Celebrity Reflection.

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GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Diamond Jo Casino – Dubuque, IA

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December Lifescape meals

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

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

Dec. 1-4 TUESDAY: A) Sloppy Joe, wheat bun, tator tots, carrots, apricots, B) Ham/ vegetable; WEDNESDAY: Baked chicken quarter, mashed potato w/gravy, broccoli, cherry cobbler; THURSDAY: Mushroom Swiss burger on bun, buttered red potatoes, baked beans, diced peaches; FRIDAY: fish patty, wheat bun, potato pancakes, California blend veggies, applesauce, tartar sauce.

Dec. 7-11 MONDAY: Country meatballs, mashed potatoes w/gravy, Brussels sprouts, dinner roll, peaches; TUESDAY: Chicken patty, wheat bun, green beans, farmer

potatoes, diced pears; WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, steamed peas, whole kernel corn, garlic bread, apricots; THURSDAY: A) Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes w/gravy, winter blend veggies, wheat bread, 2, fruit cocktail, B) Ham/chicken noodle; FRIDAY; Cheesy beef taco, flour tortilla, lettuce/tomato, Spanish rice/beans, fresh fruit.

Dec. 14-18 MONDAY: Chicken Parmesan pasta w/ marinara, Sicilian blend veggies, dinner roll, diced pears: TUESDAY: Sausage gravy w/biscuit, has brown potato, fruit juice, 2 sausage patties, peaches; WEDNESDAY: Polish sausage, sauerkraut,

potato wedges, baked beans, chilled applesauce, hot dog bun; THURSDAY: Cheese ravioli w/meat sauce, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, garlic bread, apricots; FRIDAY: A) Pepper steak, mashed potatoes w/gravy, Lima beans, wheat bread, 2, Mandarin oranges, B) Turkey/ vegetable.

Dec. 21-25 MONDAY: Hamburger patty, wheat bun, mac and cheese, cauliflower blend veggies, diced pears; TUESDAY: Meatloaf, cheesy potatoes, seasoned green beans, dinner roll, Jell-O w/fruit; WEDNESDAY: chicken cordon bleu, twice-baked potatoes, broccoli w/cheese, dinner roll holiday

dessert THURSDAY: CHRISTMAS EVE, SITE CLOSED; FRIDAY: CHRISTMAS DAY, SITE CLOSED.

Dec. 28-31 MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes w/gravy, broccoli, dinner roll, pineapple tidbits; TUESDAY; Meatloaf, Au gratin potatoes, stewed tomatoes/zucchini, dinner roll w/butter, apricots; WEDNESDAY: Citrus baked ham, sweet potatoes, green beans, wheat bread,1, fruit cocktail; THURSDAY: Italian sausage,w/peppers on bun, red potato wedges, Italian blend veggies, dices peaches. FRIDAY: CLOSED FOR NEW YEARS DAY

December meals at Whiteside County Senior Center Lunch will not be served until further notice. We will follow guidelines set forth by the state. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Please contact us at 622-9230 if you are in need of local home meal resources. Thank you.

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

Dec. 1-4 TUESDAY: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, peas; WEDNESDAY: macaroni & cheese casserole, green beans, mixed fruit; THURSDAY: pepper steak, mashed potatoes, peas, fresh fruit; FRIDAY: BBQ riblet, au gratin potatoes, glazed carrots

TUESDAY: chicken noodle casserole, carrots, peaches; WEDNESDAY: tater tot casserole, ( veggies in the casserole), applesauce; THURSDAY: ham steak, sweet potatoes, spinach; FRIDAY:Italian sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, mixed fruit

Dec. 14-18

Dec. 7-11 MONDAY: tuna salad, potato salad, mandarin oranges, whole wheat bun;

MONDAY: beef stew, applesauce, biscuit; TUESDAY: spaghetti, Italian vegeta-

bles, peaches; WEDNESDAY: meat loaf, mashed potatoes, green beans; THURSDAY: roast pork loin, cheesy potatoes, mixed vegetables; FRIDAY: sausage gravy over biscuit, mashed potatoes, peas

Dec. 21-25 MONDAY: chili, cornbread, mixed fruit; TUESDAY: Swedish meatballs, wild rice, green beans; WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, cream corn;

THURSDAY & FRIDAY: CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS

Dec. 28-31 MONDAY: hot dogs, oven potatoes, baked beans, whole wheat bun; TUESDAY: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, peas; WEDNESDAY: macaroni & cheese casserole, green beans, mixed fruit; THURSDAY & FRIDAY: CLOSED FOR NEW YEARS HOLIDAY

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult): 50 cents one way

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult): $1 one way

Fares: (within county)

People age 6 to 59 years: $2 one way Seniors or individuals with a disability: Donation suggested (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program)

Fares: (within zip code)

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-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability: 25 cents per mile

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

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

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.

2020 Membership drive continues Lee County Council on Aging provides services to anyone without consideration of their ability to donate. That is why we need your help more than ever. We are experiencing increased requests for service at a time when our grant income is shrinking, as grant providers cut back. Your membership and extra donations continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Lee County Seniors—our family, friends, and neighbors!

All memberships and other donations are fully tax-deductible. You have helped us so much with your Membership & Gifts in the past! Please renew today!

We need you more than ever!

Brand new December project for Seniors! We are publishing your submissions!

100 W. Second St., Dixon IL, or emailed to: lccoa@ comcast.net. The deadline is Dec. 12. Winners will be posted on Facebook and in the January Golden Echo.

We are publishing an “Everything Book”, filled with inspirational sayings from our parents – like “Because I told you so”; emotion-stirring poems; mouth-watering recipes; stories that begin “Do you remember that time when I…?”. A working title is “Back In My Day.” Looking forward to seeing some Christmas cookie recipes, perhaps some Christmas wishes, poems, or photos of a favorite Santa Claus. Which one is your favorite Christmas Carol? Call 815-288-9236 or email your submissions to us at lccoa@comcast.net. The deadline is Dec. 10.

Sidewalk Sale continues; over 500 Items sold!!

Every Friday 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., until it snows!

New items every week! We will have something for everyone. All funds will help pay for our furnace.

LCCOA has been inching our way to pay for our new furnace; with your help we will finally get there. All items will be a quarter or good will donation. Thank you in advance for supporting LCCOA. We look forward to seeing all our friends. (Mask and gloves will be available for your safety).

LCCOA Christmas Tree decorating contest

HELP! HELP WANTED!!

HELP NEEDED!!

Featuring your favorite Christmas Tree! Since we can’t gather Christmas trees here this year, we are gathering PICTURES of Christmas trees! That’s right: Send us a picture of your very own tree, or a picture of YOUR FAVORITE Christmas Tree, indoors or outdoors.

Pictures can be mailed to, or dropped off at: LCCOA,

LCCOA’s current Maintenance Engineer is retiring in January; we will need someone to replace him.

The hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Experience in routine building maintenance is required. Please contact Susan Lawler, executive director, at 815-288-9236.

Upcoming Special Events in Whiteside County SPECIAL NOTICE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 RISKS ALL WCSC ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CALL 815-622-9230 BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND.

Fancy Feet Foot Clinic Please call the Senior Center to inquire whether we are open to the public. Please call 815-213-0324 to schedule a foot care appointment.

SCUG (Sauk Computer User’s Group) 1 p.m. December 12 Sauk Computer Users Group will meet via zoom at 1 p.m. Please call the Senior Center for more details.

WCSC will be closed ...

December 24 and 25 in observance of Christmas December 31 and January 1 in observance of the New Year

Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, Happy New Year!

LOCAL NEWS

ANY TIME, ANYPL ACE ... saukvalley.com

Good News Sauk Valley Media would like to offer you a special deal on your next classified ad!

• 5 lines of ad copy •Ad runs for 5 days

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Special offer good for seniors age 65 and older, proof of age required. Must be pre-paid. Following restrictions apply: No Rummage Sales, Real Estate, Rental Ads or Business Ads. Items must be owned by senior citizen placing ad.

11 GOLDEN ECHO Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Upcoming Special Events in Lee County

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Wednesday, November 25, 2020

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