SVM_Golden Echo_122921

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS: The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Center and Senior Transportation, and Whiteside County Senior Center and Whiteside County Public Transportation will be closed Friday, Dec. 31 and Monday, Jan. 3, for the New Year’s holiday. WCSC and WCPT will also be closed Jan. 17 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

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 15 • JANUARY 2022 • EDITION 1

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

Photos...................................................... 6 & 7 Weekly, Monthly Activities..........................8 Upcoming Trips.............................................9

Meal Menus................................................. 10 Upcoming Special Events........................... 11 Outreach..............................................11 & 12

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

GOLDEN ECHO

2

From the LCCOA Executive Director

Keep those bags coming! We have a goal of 500 bags, and we are halfway there. Please help us reach our goal.

The holidays are a great time to clean out your closets, basements and

The best part of my position here at LCCOA is meeting amazing seniors, and the hardest part is when they pass from this world into our heavenly kingdom. On December 9, 2021, Linda Reynolds departed from this earth to join all her friends and loves ones in the hereafter. Linda has a special place in our hearts. I met Linda the first week I started my position here at LCCOA. Linda was a cheery, pleasant and very

kind woman. She had so many medical issues, and yet she continued to push through each day, and spent at least 3 days a week with us here at LCCOA. In many conversations with Linda, I learned that her vision was fading, and her hearing was diminishing. In my tour of LCCOA I came across an enlarger that would allow Linda to read the newspaper. One of our employee’s sons delivered the enlarger to Linda’s home. She was so excited to read her newspaper and books once again. Not only were we able to give her the gift of reading once again, our Outreach Department was able to provide her assistance with hearing aids. Linda had only wonderful things to say about LCCOA. She was a great supporter, and a poster senior for our agency. Linda was a major asset in promoting and spreading the word about LCCOA. She truly was devoted to Lee County Council on Aging Senior Center. I admire Linda for her dedication to the community. She once said “What can I do to help?”. When United Way needed a spokeperson to tell her story, Linda was the first to volunteer. She had so much courage and perseverance.

LCCOA will always be grateful to Linda; she will always have a special place in my heart, and I know she will always have a special place in all my staff, drivers and the seniors in our community. Farewell, dear friend, until we meet again.

Until next time ...

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

– Susan

to have my four children and 10 grandchildren close by. My favorite pastime is coupon shopping and writing grant applications to bring new funding into our county. I love challenges, and hugs from grandchildren.

My friends call me Susie — if you call me Susan I think I’m in trouble!

2022 is going to be our year! The last two years have been hard ones for everyone. This is why I’m so excited to be at Whiteside County Senior Center to help bring the FUN back to the cen-

ter! Our grand re-opening of the Center is scheduled for January 4th. Hours will go back to our normal hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We have been in communications with card groups, pool groups and line dancers. We are attempting to bring back everything we used to do, plus add more! For all those coffee drinkers, Luis will have the coffee pot on from 8 to 9 a.m. — stop by and grab a cup and swap stories. I hope to see my favorite veterans at Veterans Coffee on January 13th at 9 a.m.! We have added bigger tables for the congregate meals, as we know several of you like to eat with your friends.

We are starting trips again with the first trip being March 30th to Circa 21.

With the increase of COVID cases and variants, we will still need to follow the funding sources’ minimum guidelines of masks, social distancing whenever possible and cleaning hands

(or using sanitizer) regularly. We still need to limit points of entry but we have both Door No. 1 and Door No. 4 open, with sanitation stations near the doors and extra masks if you forgot yours! Check-in with the receptionist is necessary. This helps us keep track of numbers as we are required to give to our funding sources numbers every month, but also helps us know which programs are the most important to you. We are looking for volunteers to help in various activities — so if you have extra time on your hands let us know your talents and we will find fulfilling projects to help with. If you are having problems getting your booster shot please give Beth or Outreach a call — they will help you navigate the system of doing this.

Looking forward to seeing you all back at the center!

By Susan Lawler Happy New Year to all our Senior Friends!

Can it really be 2022?! So much has happened in the last 100 years! When I listen to the stories of our wonderful seniors who are over 100 years old, it blows my mind away. They have lived through all the wars, the depression, electricity, telephone, modern-day inventions, trains, planes and automobiles. Oh my God! To hear these stories firsthand — it is such a honor to know these seniors. I could listen to them for hours — which brings me to our senior book, “Back in My Day.” Our third edition has been published, and we are in the process of converting our 3 editions into a hardback book. We are hoping by the end of January we will have a hardback book for all of our supporters to read. We are so very excited. We have had the privilege to be the first to read these amazing stories, poems, and articles. The talent in our community of seniors is breathtaking. When I read books that are published by large publishing companies and realize that in our hometown we have more interesting, and worthwhile, stories than all these publishing companies put

together — in fact ”Back in My Day” should be on the best sellers list — all I can say is “ Yes, really.” So please keep those stories coming, and we’ll keep publishing them.

Good News!

The First Presbyterian Church of Franklin Grove sent us a donation, and with their donation our air conditioner, and two of our furnaces, are paid in full.

Our thank you goes out to all their parishioners for their support.

Each month in the Golden Echo we have published the names of all who have supported Lee County Council on Aging during this difficult time. We still have one more furnace to pay for, but we are thrilled to have such wonderful and generous supporters who care about the well-being of our seniors. I applaud all of you for your generosity and kindness.

FunSavers

From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch New beginning is what I think of every New Year’s Day. And how fitting for me this year as I start my new beginning at Whiteside County Senior Center with you all. I might be a familiar face to several of you – I might have served you coffee at the Friendship House years ago, or maybe I helped you buy or repair your house, but most of you will recognize me as the ring leader of the Foster Grandparents. I have lived in Whiteside County my whole life and am blessed

garages, and give those unwanted clothing, purses, belts, boots, shoes, bedding, and towels to LCCOA, where we will put them to good use. The items first go to help support LCCOA, secondly they are sold to those who cannot afford new items, and finally, what does not get sold is sent to third world countries. Just think: Your items are a three-fold gift.

Trips, Trips and More Trips

LCCOA is determine to keep our seniors active. We want to be sure our seniors are not lonely, or Isolated from the world. We have wonderful and exciting trips coming up in the next few months. There is a trip for everyone, so check out Washington D.C., Mackinac Island, Nashville, and finally, Ireland.

You have to admit these are great places to see! Not only will you enrich your mind, they will enrich your heart; because you will make long-lasting friendships and wonderful memories.

So come travel with us and see the world!!

A Farewell to a Dear Friend

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.

3

Make your event the ‘event of the year’ Our Historic Post House Ballroom is the perfect setting for any occasion.

Whether it is for an office party or an elegant wedding, the Post House Ballroom provides the right décor to enhance your event, as shown in the photos of Plews and Edelmann company party. One guest stated: “You don’t need to decorate; the Post House Ballroom is so magnificent in itself.” So whatever you are planning, the Post House Ballroom is the right place to host your next event. Come join us, and allow our team to help you present the event of the year.

LCCOA phone numbers

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday 100 West Second Street – Dixon, IL, 61021 Main number 815-288-9236 Transportation 815-288-9236 Post House Ballroom 815-288-9236

Outreach services & free phones for hearing impaired Outreach hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

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

1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling Transportation – 815-625-7433 • Information – 815-622-9230

ADRC: Call 815-622-9230, ext. 194

Outreach and free phones for hard of hearing/low vision 815-622-9230, ext. 194 Toll-free 888-622-9230, ext. 194

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

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

POST HOUSE BALLROOM

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

GOLDEN ECHO

4 DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS LCCOA welcomes members Larry and Mary McCormick McCormick’s Nursery Jo Dawn Lehman Patricia Spratt Marian Hill Mary Nichols Eunice Miller Linda Dunphy Susan and Craig Wolfe Dianne Donner

Phyllis Gansmer Judy Thompson Debra Sutton Paula Eubanks Terry and Debra Stephenitch Linda Kish Marilyn Kennedy Jeffrey and Jeanne Kuhn John and Judy King Elinore Kugler

Pat and Edwin Yingling Jerry and Peggy Carlson Roger and Bekki Thrasher Terry Christian Norma Burmeister Donna Wellman Michael Their Gary and Pamela Daws Mary Ann Kreps Theresa Heffelfinger

Kathleen Bodmer Verna Sagmoe Diane Blaine Larry and Ann Prindaville Joan Lesage Shirley Devine Jane Faber Jessie Ware Christine and Ronald Noble Aaron and Anne Mossholder

Patrick and Kirsten Kavanaugh Lucy Burke Judi and Phil Callison Kandi and Phillip Wright Mary Kathryn Stenzel John and Beverly Bartmess John and Evelyn Wessels Carol Hecathorn

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Watch the Echo for 2022 membership campaign. As a member you will receive discounts on all our activities and trips. All membership fees contribute to the support of Lee County Council on Aging. As a member you can feel confident that all funds helps LCCOA to continue the vital services we provide to all our seniors and continue to bring new and interesting activities to the Center for you to enjoy. Please continue to be a member of LCCOA and spread the word to all your friends and families. Thank you on behalf of LCCOA’s Board of Directors, Executive Director, staff and drivers.

WCSC welcomes members Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2022 Jan Beveroth James Dillow Joe and Mary Martin

Ervin and Carol Massingill Richard and Rita Jacks Walter and Jeanette Wagner

Carol Jacobs Janice Kuepker Katherine Sedig

Theresa Heffelfinger John Ordean Shirley Schwarz

James Eshelman Patricia Frost Dawn Jo Lehman

If you would like to join the Whiteside County Senior Center for 2022, 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. We are increasing activities for 2022 and 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.

AARP Tax Volunteers Anderson Nature Center, Fulton John Booker Joe Bright Karla Burn

Al Campbell Church Women’s United Erie Public Library Trisha Logan Glenda MacLennan

Golden Meals Joe Fornero Michelle Miller McCormicks Nursery NIAAA

Odell Public Library, Morrison Riverbend Food Bank Rusty Schrader Sauk Valley Food Bank SCUG

Emily Taylor TRIAD of Sterling United Way of Sterling Cindy Wadsworth Whiteside County

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.

First Presbyterian Church of Franklin Grove Dorothy Szewczyk Larry and Mary McCormick McCormick’s Nursery Molly Blackburn Papa Murphys Amorette Groen Paula Eubanks

Richard and Lee Ann Brabtners Jerry and Peggy Carlson Aaron and Anne Mossholder Lee Ann and Richard Brantners Eunice Miller Larry and ann Prindaville Diane Blaine Kristi Reiss Kristine Schuler

Phyllis Gansmer Judy Thompson Paula Kohlert Carol Kutz Janet Butler Sami Rodriguez – Petersen Health Care Scott Oesterlin Safe Life Home Health Care Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger Lee, And

Lee County Council on Aging Board Executive Committee and Officers Bonnie O’Connell, Chair

LaDonna Groshans, Vice Chair

Kristin Carlson, Secretary

Cindy Gabany Sami Rodriguez

Roberta Lemoine Michael T. Glenn

Cheryl Smith Julia O’FFarell

Considine, LLC NIAAA Good Fellows Clara Harris Terry Christian Lee County Jesse Ware Eileen Piper Larry Piper

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

Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers Joe Bright – President Michelle Miller – Vice President Karla Burn – Treasurer Cindy Wadsworth – Secretary Emily Taylor Janice Bell John Booker Al Campbell Sasha Logan

Whiteside County Senior Center 2022 Membership Form (Jan. 1-Dec. 31)

5

(PLEASE PRINT. You can mail your check to WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. )

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

First/Middle/Last Name________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________City, State___________________________________ Zip code____________________ Home phone ______________________________________Cell phone____________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________ Date of Birth_________________________________________Gender_________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPE Single $25

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

Spouse’s Name_______________________________________________ Cell phone__________________________________ Date of birth___________________________ Date of first Covid vaccine (optional)________________________ Date of second Covid vaccine (optional)_________________________________________________ Please make checks payable to: Whiteside County Senior Center EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ SPOUSE’S EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION First & last name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home/Cell phone______________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you______________________________________ Thank you for being part of our Senior Center — The place where you enter as a friend and leave as family!

WCSC

Legacy Tree will put down roots at WCSC, honor lost loved ones We would like to begin a Legacy Tree here at the Whiteside County Senior Center. During Covid we have lost some very wonderful members of our senior center: Bud, DuWayne and many more! We recognize that families may want to leave a legacy for their loved ones and we want to offer that opportunity to you.

We will be building a Legacy Tree with gold-tone leaves on a wall inside our center. In the event that you have lost a loved one and want to leave a legacy in their name, the funds would help grow the center and also help others remember your loved one too. Follow the Golden Echo for more information to come.

TS N E LE! M RT LAB A I AP VA A

Call Gnome for the holidays!

F E A T U R I N G :

Spacious Studio & One-Bedroom Apartments 24-hour staffing Weekly housekeeping with linen & laundry services Vibrant activities, social events, & outings Transportation to appointments 3 plated meals served daily

Jones Funeral Homes Ask Us About Our Guaranteed Prearrangement Contracts

204 S. Ottawa Ave • 288-2241

AMBOY

303 E Main St. • 857-2611

www.thejonesfh.com

SM-ST1927830

DIXON

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

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

GOLDEN ECHO

6 WCSC

May all your Christmas sweaters be merry and bright!

Thanks to all who participated in our Fun Sweater Contest. Mary was the winner for our guests and Alice was the winner for our staff. It was tough judging with so many great sweaters, but THANK YOU to our movie-goers who voted!

Helping out the Food Pantry Leona and Linda from Church Women United of Sterling/Rock Falls presented Susie Welch, Director of WCSC, with a $2,000 check to be used toward our Food Pantry. We are one of 13 pantries in that area that they have assisted. Thank you! We are looking for volunteers so that we can re-open the pantry soon!

QUALITY PHYSICAL THERAPY at 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: 124 Liberty Court, Dixon, IL 61021 SM-ST1938542

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

LCCOA

7

Trees were all decked out for contest Tina Maldanado’s tree (photo at top) was the winner of the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest. LCCOA received several entries for the contest, which didn’t require experience or tree decorating skills — just is Christmas spirit and a camera. The winner gets bragging rights for a whole year and a special gift basket.

HELP PASS ON THE REAGAN LEGACY AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION

VOLUNTEER AT THE REAGAN BOYHOOD HOME!

CONTACT KYLE AT

OR CALL US AT

FOR MORE INFORMATION. SM-ST1942173

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

DO YOU MISS RONALD REAGAN?

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

Weekly activities at WCSC

Weekly & monthly activities at LCCOA

8

LCCOA & LCCOA Transportation follows COVID19 protocols very closely. The following listings are signs of life returning to the Dixon Seniors Center! Hopefully, this space will increase each month, with increased activities. Just because you don’t see a certain activity, does NOT mean it’s never coming back. Check this space each month, so YOU can get busy, too!! The LCCOA Outreach Office is open. Call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

PLEASE NOTE: EVERYONE WHO ENTERS THE BUILDING MUST WEAR A MASK.

Bingo is here — twice — in January!

Mexican Train Dominoes Players

Bingo will be here on Friday, January 7 at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m.! Masks are still required.

Fridays at 1 p.m.

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

Masks are required.

The Holiday Shop is still open!

We have new and gently used items for sale. Priced at 25¢ to $3, they will make great gifts! The Holiday Shop will remain open during January, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Line Dancing Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

Downstairs in the LCCOA dining room. For more information call 815-288-9236

Rummikub Players

Our FunSavers Clothing Drive is back!

Last drop-off date is Jan. 10 Every bag of old clothes, shoes, purses, belts, sheets and blankets brings us closer to paying off another furnace.

LCCOA was hit hard this year, replacing three furnaces and an air conditioner. Your donations can be dropped off at the Senior Center anytime. Just place your bags in between the two doors.

2022 membership has begun!

Mondays at 1 p.m.

All are welcome! Masks are required.

We have begun to send out the announcements for our 2022 membership campaign, or feel free to use the membership application form found in this issue of Golden Echo.

Table Crafters

Covid vaccine info for seniors

Thursdays at 1 p.m.

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

Call the Lee County Health Dept. at 815-284-3371 to check for dates and times of clinics, or to get your Covid19 vaccinations or boosters.

Mondays

8-9 a.m. — Coffee Clutch with Luis 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch

Tuesdays

8-9 a.m. — Coffee Clutch with Luis 12:30 p.m. — Euchre 1-4 p.m. — Pool Playing 11-noon — Lunch

Wednesdays

8-9 a.m. — Coffee Clutch with Luis 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle

Thursdays

8-9 a.m. — Coffee Clutch with Luis 10-11 a.m. — Yoga (Membership required) 11 a.m.-noon — Lunch 12:30-2:30 p.m. — Hand and Foot 1-4 p.m. — Pool playing

Fridays

8-9 a.m. — Coffee Clutch with Luis 10 a.m.-noon — Line Dancing 12:30-4 p.m. — Pinochle If there other activities that you’d like to see us resume, please call Beth at 622-9230, ext. 110.

LCCOA LCCOA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION | 2022 (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.

Upcoming Trips Walmart at 10:30 a.m. Price includes bus transportation, lunch, matinee and dessert! Final payment is due March 1.

March 10-15, 2022 $625 for members/ $650 for non-members — Price per person, based on double occupancy The temperature in March is typically in the lower 50’s, so you should still bring your winter clothing. We will be staying in Washington D.C. for 3 nights while touring the following sights: the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the National Archives, Embassy Row, Washington Monument, Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknowns, and the Smithsonian Institution, to name a few. Transportation, hotel, admission fees, continental breakfast, and dinner are included. Call and talk to your Group Leader, Marisa Perales, at 815-288-9236.

LCCOA presents: Mackinac Island!

WCSC presents “Just Desserts: A Musical Bake-Off” at Circa 21 March 30, 2022 Cost: $95 for members, $120 for non-members It’s sweet. It’s savory. It’s five strangers putting their hearts, reputations, and baking skills on the line to become the crème de la crème of bakers at the county fair. They’ll all get their just desserts at the Jefferson County Bake-Off! Rated PG. Doors open at 11:45 a.m., followed by lunch, and the show is at 1:30 p.m. The bus will leave Sterling

May 30-June 3, 2022 $545 for members/ $570 for non-members — Price per person, 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. Call Marisa at 815-288-9236 for questions or to reserve your space.

Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone, and feel the sweeping winds upon the Cliffs of Moher. These are just a few of the things you will have the opportunity to experience on this trip! Please contact April at Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 or email her at lccoabookkeeper@comcast.net to have a packet mailed or emailed to you. You can even register yourself at https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1083188.

There will be a Zoom presentation for the Ireland trip! Come join us here, or from the comfort of your home to learn about our this trip! Follow the link and register: rb.gy/yeyv73 or join us here at LCCOA for the Zoom presentation and enjoy a free lunch. Call April at 815-288-9236 to RSVP for the in-person presentation.

LCCOA presents Nashville Show Trip

WCSC presents Travel with Glenda!

Aug. 1-6, 2022 $697 for members/ $722 for non-members — Price per person, based on double occupancy See a great show at The Grand Ole Opry! Take photos with your favorite stars at Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. Tour a restored Victorian plantation museum. Free time to check out the famous downtown streets of Nashville 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.

Cost:$2,700 per person, based on double occupancy. $1,000 deposit per person required.

Oct. 20, fly to Rome and spend 2 nights, with a tour on the second day. Oct. 22, board the Celebrity Constellation for 15 nights. We’ll visit Toulon, France, Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Cartagena, Spain, Ponta Delgada, Portugal, Nassau, Bahamas and end in Tampa, Florida. We will have 9 sea days. If you might be interested, please call The Whiteside County Senior Center and ask for Glenda.

LCCOA presents: Explore Ireland!

Seats are filling up fast! A $75 deposit reserves your seat. The price of the trip includes your transportation, hotel, meals (excluding lunch), and any admission fees.

The only additional funds needed will be for your extras.

Oct. 5-12, 2022 $3,398 per person, based on double occupancy, for bookings made prior to March 30. A deposit of $999 per person is due upon reservation. Cost includes cancellation waiver and insurance.

Journey to see the Emerald Isle! Take in the sights of

LCCOA’s upcoming trips for 2022

WCSC Branson Missouri Show Trip This trip is being planned. Stay tuned to the February Golden Echo for details.

COVID

Third dose vs. booster: What’s the difference?

According to information from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Department on Aging …

A third dose …

Is available to Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech recipients.

Can be received 28 days after second dose.

Is given to people with moderate or severely weakened immune systems who cannot fight off infections well (people with cancer, organ transplant, etc.)

A booster shot …

Of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines can be received 6 months after the second dose. Johnson and Johnson can be given 2 months after the initial dose.

Is Available for adults 65 and older, patients in long-term care facilities, and adults 18-64 with a medical or occupational risk.

Can be mixed and matched. You have the choice to mix and match boosters with a single dose of any of the authorized COVID-19 vaccine boosters. Remember, that mixing and matching vaccines may be considered for the booster dose only.

Q&A

Where can I receive a booster or third dose?

You can receive it at your local pharmacy, health department, or from your primary care physician.

Where can I get more information?

For questions about vaccinations, boosters, and testing, call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-889-3931. You can also email your questions to DPH.SICK@Illinois.gov.’

Why should I receive a booster or third dose?

Protection against the virus may decrease over time and be less effective against variants. You can now get your COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine during the same session.

Vaccination records now available online The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has launched a new 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.

If you need assistance with this, please contact WCSC Outreach Department at 815-622-9230 ext. 194.

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

LCCOA presents : Washington, D.C., Our Nation’s Capital

9

January Lifescape meals

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

GOLDEN ECHO

10

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

Jan. 3-7 MONDAY: Chicken Parmesan pasta w/ marinara Sicilian blend vegetables, 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 with gravy, glazed carrots, whole-grain wheat bread, Mandarin oranges.

B.) Turkey/vegetable

Jan. 10-14 MONDAY: Hamburger patty, whole-grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, California-blend veggies, diced peaches.

TUESDAY: BBQ chicken breast augratin potatoes seas. green beans whole grain dinner roll fruit cocktail

WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak mashed pot/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

Jan. 17-21 MONDAY: Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed peas, whole-grain dinner roll, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY: Meatloaf, cheesy potatoes Brussels sprouts, whole-grain wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY: Baked pork chop, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole-grain dinner roll, cherry crisp. THURSDAY: Italian sausage with peppers on whole-grain bun, red potato wedges, Italian blend, veggies, apricots. FRIDAY: A.) Crispy fish sandwich on whole-grain wheat bun with tartar sauce, mac

& cheese, peas, diced peaches B.) turkey/minestrone

Jan. 24-28 MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, Mandarin oranges. TUESDAY: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir fry, veggies whole-grain dinner roll, apricots.

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

Jan. 31 MONDAY: BBQ riblett, whole-grain wheat bun, cheesy potatoes, country-mixed vegetables, diced pears.

8 oz. low-fat milk served with all lunches.

January 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.

Jan. 3-7 MONDAY: Chili dog, oven potatoes, baked beans, wheat bread (Please note: WCSC is closed Monday for the New Years holiday.) TUESDAY: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, carrots, wheat bread.

WEDNESDAY: beef and noodles, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Turkey tetrazzini, Italian green beans, applesauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Home delivery only

Jan. 10-14 MONDAY: Stuffed green peppers, carrots, fruit,

wheat bread. TUESDAY: Chicken noodle casserole, green beans, fruit, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, fruit, wheat bread.

THURSDAY: Beef stew, corn bread, apple sauce.

FRIDAY: Home delivery only

Jan. 17-21 MONDAY: Closed for MLK day. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo/ pasta, spinach, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Ham loaf, sweet potatoes, mixed vegetables, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Tuna and noodles, peas, fruit, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Home delivery only

Jan. 24-28 MONDAY: Sloppy Joes, oven potatoes, mixed vegetable. TUESDAY: Spaghetti, peas, apricots, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, cream corn, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Turkey tetrazzini, Italian green beans, applesauce, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Home delivery only

Jan. 31

MONDAY: Chili dog, oven potatoes, baked beans, wheat bread.

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Fares: (within county)

Lee County Council on Aging Senior Transportation — 815-288-9236 Hours: 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday

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 Call LOTS 888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

Bingo is here at LCCOA — twice in January!

Zoom presentation and enjoy a free lunch. Call April at 815-288-9236 to RSVP for the in-person presentation.

2022 Membership Drive has begun!

Friday, Jan. 7 at 9:30am & Friday, Jan. 21 at 9:30am.

The games are free and there will be prizes!

Deadline for the FunSavers Clothing Drive is Jan. 10

Splendors of Ireland Zoom presentation

Every bag of old clothes, shoes, purses, belts, sheets and blankets brings us closer to paying off another furnace. LCCOA was hit hard last year, replacing three furnaces and an air conditioner. Your donations can be dropped off at the Senior Center anytime. Just place your bags in between the two doors.

We have begun to send out the announcements for our 2022 Membership Campaign. The mailing includes a 2022 membership form. You may also complete the membership form on page 8 of Golden Echo.

Come join us here or from the comfort of your home to learn about our Ireland trip! Follow the link, and register at rb.gy/yeyv73, or join us here at LCCOA for the

Covid vaccine info for seniors Call the Lee County Health Dept. at 815-284-3371 to check dates and times of clinics, or get your Covid-19 vaccinations or boosters.

Special Events at WCSC Fancy Feet Foot Clinic January 5 & 12 Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 to set up an appointment. Masks are required. Covid pre-screening questionnaires will be required to be completed.

Yoga Thursdays, January 6, 13, 20 & 27 at 10 a.m.

Yoga is back at 10 a.m., as requested! Membership is required. Masks are required. Must provide your own yoga mat and strap. Yoga session is adjusted for all levels of yoga ability. If you have never done yoga and would like to join us, a simple membership of $25 is required. Enjoy the benefits of yoga!

SCUG January 8 at 1 p.m.

Sauk Computer User Group will meet at 1 p.m. with a question-and-answer time. There will be a short business meeting with election of officers for 2022. Then there will be a security presentation by Detective Tanner Wilhelm of the Sterling Police Department. Everyone with an interest in computers/technology is

invited, refreshments will be available.

Veterans Coffee January 13 from 9-10 a.m.

We are re-starting our Veterans Coffee and we will meet the second Thursday of every month. We invite you to join us! We ask you to bring an item reflecting your service time that you would like to share with the group. It can be a photo, an article or anything you would like to tell a story about. We will be handing out “Benefits for Veterans” booklets made available through the IDVA. This book lists federal, state and local resources. We will be meeting in the dining room.

No reservation required. We look forward to meeting you and hearing your story!

TRIAD meeting January 19 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 welcome.

Please reach out to Beth at bsterk@wc-seniorcenter.org if you would like to participate. Meeting location TBD.

Alzheimer’s Watch Party January 20 at noon Come by and watch our live, in-person presentation on the big screen. Details on the front page of this month’s Golden Echo.

New to Medicare Class January 26 at 1 p.m.

This class is designed for anyone who is new to Medicare. It helps answer questions you might have about original Medicare- Part A and B and also basic information about Medicare Advantage plans and supplemental policies. No pre- registration is required. This class will be taught by Wendy Eckel, Certified SHIP Counselor.

Volunteers Needed We need volunteers to assist with our food pantry.

This would be 2-4 hours per week. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and work outdoors. We also need 1 person who is interested in data entry. Please contact Beth at 622-9230 xt 110 in interested.

OUTREACH AT LCCOA

Discounted license plate stickers available The Benefit Access Application, offered through the Illinois Department on Aging, is an online-only application. Upon approval, this application provides a discounted license plate sticker, and if chosen, a Ride Free transit card for fixed-route transportation systems (such as those found in Chicago).

Qualifications: Must be age 65+, or able to prove disability status, and fall within the income guidelines, using the prior tax season’s Federal taxes

(form 1040) and accompanying documents. If you did not file we will need all 1099s and other income from that year. All income is counted, including your full Social Security.

Income guidelines are $33,562 for singles, $44,533 for couples, and $55,500 for a 3-person household Contact LCCOA at 815-288-9236 (ask for Outreach) or WCSC at 815-625-9230 ext. 194 to complete your application.

ITAC: Amplify your life Amplified phones and Bluetooth devices are offered free of charge for those who have an already established (standard) land-line or cellular phone.

This free program is governed by Illinois law and

offered through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC).

Learn more at www. itactty.org.

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.

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

Special Events at LCCOA

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

GOLDEN ECHO

12

Whiteside someone catch a ride Outreach is Help Consider donating to the Adopt A Rider program here to help To donate to the program ...

WCPT

Our Outreach Department is here to link older adults and persons with disabilities to programs to help maintain their independence in the community. We advocate for and educate our clients on benefits and services available to them. We can be reached by phone, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 815-6229230, ext. 194.

Discount available for vehicle registration

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 and $44,533 for couples and $55,500 for a 3-person household.

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.

To schedule an appointment, please call 6229230 ext. 194.

Social Security Extra Help

Federal Prescription Assistance is available for low-income seniors and the disabled on Medicare under the 150% federal poverty guidelines. There is an asset limit as well. Some clients may need to file every year.

Medicaid, Medicare Savings Program

Clients need to make sure and fill out their redetermination papers every year. Medicaid may help with medical costs. The Medicare Savings Program pays the Medicare B premium for low income Medicare recipients and may cover some medical costs after Medicare does if you are under a certain income limit.

Food Stamps (LINK)

Client’s needs to make sure they fill their redemption papers for food stamps every year.

Vaccine Booster Appointments

We are partnering with the Whiteside County Health Department to get people registered for their Covid vaccine booster. Dates and times will vary based on availability, and whether Moderna or Pfizer booster is available.

Please call us at 622-9230 or follow us on Facebook for updates.

Whiteside County Public Transportation is a not-for-profit public transportation 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 the community members obtaining a higher education, hard-working parents, dialysis patients, senior citizens, person with disabilities, friends and families.

To donate to the program, fill out the information below and mail or bring donations to: Whiteside County Public Transportation, Attn: Amy Dorathy, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. Please call Amy with any questions you might have at 815-625-RIDE (7433).

Happy holidays from all of us at WCPT!

Fill out the information below and mail or bring donations to: Whiteside County Public Transportation Attn: Amy Dorathy 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081.

Please call Amy 815-625-RIDE (7433) with any questions you have.

Name__________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________ Phone__________________________________________________ Donation amount: $______________________________________

LCCOA

Thanks, Papa Murphy’s, and all who helped make this fundraiser a success A huge shout out, and massive thank you, to all who participated in the Lee County Council on Aging’s fundraiser, sponsored by Papa Murphys. A special thank you to Molly Blackburn, franchise owner of Dixon Papa Murphys, for her generosity and support of LCCOA Senior Center.

On November 20, LCCOA held a fundraiser with Papa Murphys, which donated 15% of proceeds to LCCOA. From left to right: Susan Lawler, Molly Blackburn (presenting check), and Samantha Harrazin.