SVM_Golden Echo_April 2023

The Lee County Council on Aging, Senior Center and Senior Transportation, and the Whiteside County Senior Center will be closed Friday, April 7, for Good Friday. There will be no buses running on Good Friday. Normal office hours, and bus routes, will resume Monday, April 10.

G olden E cho

A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies

WHITESIDE COUNTY SENIOR CENTER PRESENTS

The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

♦ Motorcoach transportation

♦ 4 nights lodging in the Cincinnati area

♦

$717*

For

(Mon - Fri)

May 22 - 26

pictures, video, and information visit: www.GroupTrips.com/WhitesideCountySeniorCenter

2023

Day 1: Depart your group's location in a spacious, video and restroom equipped Motorcoach as you head for your destination: The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum! This evening, you will have Dinner and check into your Cincinnati area hotel for a four night stay.

Day 2: Start the day with a Continental Breakfast before the big event you've been waiting for: THE ARK ENCOUNTER! Bigger than imagination, this life-sized Noah's Ark Experience will amaze you. Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah's Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. From the moment you turn the corner and the towering Ark comes into view, to the friendly animals in the zoo, or the jaw-dropping exhibits inside the Ark, you'll experience the pages of the Bible like never before. This evening, enjoy Dinner before heading back to your hotel.

Day 3: Start the day with a Continental Breakfast before you head to The Ark Encounter's sister attraction: THE CREATION MUSEUM. Prepare to believe as you explore 75,000 square feet of state-of-the-art exhibits, full-size Allosaurus skeleton, stunning botanical gardens, petting zoo, and more. The state-of-the-art Creation Museum allows you to venture through biblical history. Tonight, enjoy a Dinner Party with Entertainment!

Day 4: After a Continental Breakfast, you'll head to the CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER, a one-of-a-kind, multi-museum complex housed in Union Terminal, a historic Art Deco train station and National Historic Landmark. Your visit includes an admission to the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, and an OMNIMAX Show. The Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater takes you to places you can only imagine, as you immerse yourself in epic adventures in the five-story domed theater. Afterwards, you'll enjoy a BB RIVERBOAT'S SIGHTSEEING CRUISE on the Ohio River. BB Riverboat's large vessel has both indoor and climate controlled seating, helping to ensure an enjoyable experience. This evening, enjoy Dinner before heading back to your hotel.

Day 5: Today, after enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you will depart for home... a perfect time to chat with your friends about all the fun things you've done, the great sights you've seen, and where your next group trip will take you!

From the LCCOA

Executive Director

By Susan Lawler

“April Shower’s brings May Flowers” – we are truly looking forward to our petunias blossoming and our Butterfly Garden coming back to life. The months have flown by, and spring is here. We have had a very mild winter — thank God! Hopefully our garden will flourish, and it again will bring joy to all our seniors.

LCCOA had a busy March, but what fun we had. Our events were so successful, and brought so much enjoyment. AARP is finally winding down, and 172 seniors were able to file their taxes. We don’t thank our volunteers enough for what they have done over the years. Thank you,AARP volunteers, for your time, dedication and love for your fellow senior.

Lunches and more Lunches

Valentine Day’s lunches were just amazing, just looking at our photos (see page XX of this issue) tells the whole story. Linda and Kristi from KSB outdid themselves with cherry cheese

From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch

When I think of April, the first thing that comes to mind is tax day. Tax day customarily falls on April 15. But this year that date falls on a Saturday and the following Monday is Emancipation Day, which is recognized as a holiday in Washington, D.C. As a result, tax day has been pushed back until the following Tuesday, April 18. This gives us a few days extra to save our pennies. On April 21, we will be hosting a free meal for the seniors of Whiteside County to celebrate tax day — Hobo Stew. This is a tradition that I had the great privilege of being a part of several years ago and I’m excited to bring it to the Center. We will also be serving cake to celebrate my 29th birthday! Come help us celebrate tax day and give thanks that tax

cake, just to die for. The Valentine Cards our staff and drivers made touched the hearts of all of our seniors. Vickie and Tiffany just wowed all of our very special Valentine fiends. One of our lunch friends, Joyce, said she “just loved our Cupid, and our drivers were amazing.”Our goal here at LCCOA is to bring love and happiness to our seniors. There are so many who are no longer mobile, leaving their homes become difficult. We cherish our moments with them, no matter how brief. We are so grateful to our drivers, staff, and to Meadows of Franklin Grove staff for providing joy every month to our wonderful and well-loved senior friends. Watch for St. Pat’s lunch photos, and Easter photos. The newspaper comes out before we can even have the event, so we appear behind schedule — and we are — but better late than never. If you would like to become one of our lunch friends, or know of seniors who would like to be added to our list, please call us and provide their name, phone number and address — the more the merrier!!!!

What do you think about our New Orleans trip??

We hope you enjoyed the photos of our friends that just came back from New Orleans as much as we enjoyed them. It is always fun to live vicariously through others, even when you cannot make the trip, you can have a

day and birthdays only come once a year!

We will be hosting our monthly Food Fundraiser on April 28 with a traditional Easter Baked Ham Dinner. The meal will be served at noon and cost $7. Your attendance helps us to continue and grow our Center. Stay and enjoy Karaoke that day.

On April 24, the Center will host its annual Senior Fair. This is a free event for seniors, please feel free to come check us out along with other senior providers. The event runs from 10 a.m.noon. This is a great chance to see old friends, make new friends and win door prizes! Please plan to stay for the meal provided by Golden Meals — only $3 for those 60 and over.

I’m excited to announce that we now have 3 staff members and 2 volunteers certified to bring the Matter of Balance classes to Whiteside County. Matter of Balance (MOB) is an evidence-based program designed to reduce the fear of falling through tips designed to prevent falls, what to do during falls, and most important: exercises to strengthen your balance. This program is a must

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.

firsthand look of what our trips are all about. Seeing our friends have a wonderful time always brings as much joy as being there. Next time we will take you, so keep watching for our upcoming trips. Niagara Falls has 4 spots left; we keep adding rooms, but this time we truly only have 4 spots left. Biltmore is filling up fast — don’t miss out on this trip. The estate, the winery, and the village are a must to see. Check it off your bucket list!! Alaska — tell me who doesn’t want to see Alaska? There is an adventurer in all of us. Ever since I saw the movie “North to Alaska,” with John Wayne and Fabian, Alaska moved to the top of my list. We have just opened up more cabins, so jump on this trip before they are all filled up. Atlantic City: What can we say?! The Boardwalk, the ocean, and what about Hershey’s Chocolate World? For all those chocolate lovers, you will just kick yourself if you don’t make this trip. Here’s a trip that will put the icing on the cake: Jerusalem. This time I will be living vicariously through you. I haven’t been, but it is a dream of mine. I cannot join you, because someone needs to watch the store! Please bring back tons and tons of photos so we all may re-live your adventure. Finally, we need to thank Marisa; she truly puts her heart and soul into all of our trips. Marisa laughs with you, she cries with you, and you are her friend. She does love each and every one of you. You are

for anyone 60 or older. It’s a life-changing experience that runs 4 weeks — 1 1/2 hours twice a week. Classes are limited to 12 individuals at a time. We will be offering this class in Sterling and in Fulton as soon as we have 12 people signed up. Please stop by the Center or call 815-622-9230 to sign up for this program. We want to bring this program to a location near you — any organization interested in bringing this program to your community can call 815-622-9230 and ask for Patty.

We will be in an area near you every week starting in April. Our satellite locations hours will be weekly now. Look for us in Fulton on the first Tuesday of each month, in Morrison the second Tuesday of each month, Prophetstown the third Tuesday of every month, and Erie the fourth Tuesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. at all locations.

Starting the second Friday of April, IT students from WACC will host classes on how to order groceries online to be delivered (class time 10 to 11 a.m.) and how to order groceries for pick-up (class time 12:30-1:30 p.m.). Class size is

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

special to her and will always remain in her heart, even after the trip has ended.

There is a story in each of us!

The writers workshop was enjoyable, insightful and Dr. Aaron Lawler of Waubonsee Community College left his writer friends wanting more. There is truly a story in each and every one of us, just waiting to be told. Dr. Lawler’s comparison of Bradbury and Hemingway gave us a different, yet interesting, take on these writers. Even if they are not your favorite authors, they bring value and a different point of view to what you might want to achieve.

The group has decided to meet at 1 p.m. on the third Monday of each month in the Post House Ballroom. Please call for reservations.

IDOT workshop

More than 80 employees from the Illinois Department of Transportation attended IDOT’s annual meeting. The IDOT employees were in awe of our Post House Ballroom. Our majestic chandeliers are always a conversation piece. The workshop had another successful event, and LCCOA was thrilled to host attendees from Springfield, Peoria and the surrounding communities, as well as Dixon’s corporate office.

Happy Easter!

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

— Susan

limited to 4 people each session. A sign-up sheet is available at the reception area or by calling 815-622-9230. The ability to do this has been such a blessing for me and I’m so happy to bring this ability to all of you! The students will be able to help you with your favorite store, but once you learn one store you will easily be able to access more stores. This can be done on a computer, tablet or most mobile devices. Classes will continue into May if we have enough demand. Sign up early to ensure your placement.

This month CGH Foundation will sponsor both of our Bingo events — April 12 & 26. Please stop by to hear all the exciting work the Foundation is doing for Caregivers of Alzheimer’s loved ones.

Last but not least, on April 4 the Center will act as an election polling place. Yoga and Pool tables will be canceled but Knitting Club will be held in the dining room along with Euchre. Friendly reminder: We will be closed April 7 to observe Good Friday. See you soon, Susie

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.

So much to be thankful for!

TOP: A HUGE thank you to the Burton Foundation for its donation to Feed Our Seniors Program (free community meal).

Pictured, from left, are: WCPT Director Emily Hammer, Burton Foundation Treasurer Caroline Torres, and WCSC Director Susie Welch.

BOTTOM: Thank you, thank you to Kroger’s, not only for their generous monetary donation but their ongoing contributions to our Center, including flowers, plants and donuts.

A special visitor

During a recent visit to the Whiteside County Senior Center, Paula A. Basta (center), Director of Illinois Department of Aging, told the staff: “You have a wonderful senior center — keep up the great work.”

A happy Valentine’s Day

Local seniors got a visit from Vicki on Valentine’s Day when she dropped off lunches. Vickie, along with Tiffany, who also dropped off lunches, spread the love as they brought smiles to some special valentine friends.

Learning the write stuff

Dr. Aaron Lawler of Waubonsee Community College (seated on table, at right) gave a presentation to the Writers Workshop on March 3 on authors Ray Bradbury and Ernest Hemingway. Our senior writers were engaged in Lawler’s presentation and said it was extremely helpful, adding that they’d like Lawler to return for another workshop. The workshop was funded by the Illinois Endowment for Arts and Humanities, which endorses speakers to lead programs throughout the state.

Quilt raffle

Another lovely quilt was donated by Dorothy Szewczyk, and we are raffling it off. There’s no purchase necessary — just complete a raffle ticket, or call in and we will complete one for you. This is an Easter gift from Dorothy and LCCOA to brighten up your day.

DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS

LCCOA welcomes members

CONTACT INFORMATION

Judith Milano

Carl Scroggins

Elizabeth Kanzler

Pat Vail

Sandra Schamberger

Larry Prindaville

Ann Prindaville

Merrilee Theisinger

Roger Theisinger

Jim Coffey

Martha Swarts

Joan Lemme

Francis Lemme

Donald Kelly

Gayle Topping

Norma Reed

Verna Sagamoe

Leon Kinn

Dolly Kinn

Marilyn Cibu

Nichola Fowekes

Terry Steder

Joan Christoffersen

Susan and Craig Wolfe

Janice Dunseth

Glenn Dunseth

Carl Gann

Joe Morrisey

Christine Noble

Ronald Noble

Diane Blaine

John and Mary Holthaus

Sheryl Bushman

Orville Schaefer

McCormicks’ Nursery

Pamela Jahns

Florence Rosander

Dotty Zimmerman

Debra Sutton

Elizabeth Huffstutler

Margaret Apple

Dennis Bennett

Penny Bennett

James Rodriquez

Barbara Friel

Robert Friel

Robert Thomas

Evelyn Thomas

Catherine-Luther-Grossman

Laura Brooks

Duane Paulsen

Dennis Ayres

Edwin and PatYingling

Florine Bush

Joyce and Mike McAllister

Syvia Wade

Carolyn Marshall

Hilda and Jack Smith

Joe Robison

Janet Bushman

Douglas and Delores Dysart

Robert Stevens

Rosemary Keough

Bruce and Patricia Anderson

Sandra and William Kelly

Joan Lesage

Lovella Palmer

Stephen and Diane Bieser

Keith and Charlene Huff

Carol Ely

Mary Hackbarth

Rolinda Fritts

Linda Dunphy

Joyce Warrenfeltz

Martha Johannsen

Allen and Linda Reece

Judy Hambley

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Viola Bushman

Teresa Rudolphi

Tom Cartwright

Joe Fernero

Dan Maloney

Gyrlee Kobler

Elinore Kugler

Judith Schmidt

Ernie Valladares

Larry and Edie Cater

Carol and David Youker

Sandra Wooden

Patsy Commons

Collen Koch

Carol Roath

Tim Ruppert

Shirley Wolford

Wayne and Joyce Beaird

John and LaDonna Groshans

Kevin and Susan Stach

Watch the Echo for 2023 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.

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers and supporters

Terry Christian

Liberty Court

Heritage Square

Sharon Phelps

Sandy Ready

Jeff Giacobbe

Lee County United Way

Amanda Wike

Linda Setchell

Barajas, Mary Jane Bishop, Suzanne Bittner, Susan Bramm, Carolyn Bramm, Ellen Brown, Linda Cain, Janet Campos, Tammy

CHARITABLE, GROUNDSWELL – Corporate Member

Krisi Chrisham

Kathy Ferguson

Lee County Health Depart-

ment

Nancy Gates

Dan Maloney

Josie Whaley

Dixon Food Pantry

Larry Piper

Eileen Piper

Franklin Grove Living & Rehab

Meadows of Franklin Grove

Oregon Living & Rehab

Kathy Clark

Sheree Rich

Sherley Celleti

Dave Celletti

Ben Galantine

Johnson CPA

Leydig Center Crest Foods Co., Inc.

Susan Johnson

Real Time

Joe Fornero

Brandan Lumzy

Lumzy Yoga

Sami Rodriguez

WCSC welcomes members

Cheshier, Anna Daniels, Ernestine Daniels, Grady Elliott, Julie

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES – Corporate Member Frederick, Francis Frederick, Karen Fundraiser, Food Haan, Norma

Hunsberger, James Hussung, Lorena Hussung, Lorraine Irvin, Judy Itken, Donna Kahly, Mary Kivisto, Laura Loescher, Lila Martens, Janice Martens, Richard

Mays, Dinah Meter, Janet Miller, Gary Montiel Jr, Albert Nelson, Myrna Olinger, Priscilla Olinger, Ralph Poci, Terry Riva, Don Sanders, Clara

Darla Foulker Good Fellows

Clara Harris

Teen Turf

NIAAA

Lee County

Rusty Schrader

Lee Ogle Transportation

Lifescape

Schuler, Thomas Stickel, Anita Stover, Terri Strader, Rose Strock, Nancy Town fund, Jordan VanDenBerghe, Beverly Vogel, Lois Williams, Elaine Williams, Michael

If you would like to join the Whiteside County Senior Center for 2023, 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. We are increasing activities for 2022 and we always appreciate your continued support of our Aging and Disabled Resource Center and we appreciate YOU!

WCSC has developed a new Corporate Membership. As a Corporate member you will be recognized in our building and in the newspaper for your support, along with valuable benefits for your employees. Employees will be eligible to attend our exercise classes and the member discounts on our trips by showing their employee ID or business card when signing up.

Please contact our Center at 815-622-9230 for more details. We always appreciate your continued support of our Aging and Disabled Resource Center — and we appreciate YOU!

Thank you to WCSC volunteers and supporters

Allure of Sterling & Prophetstown

Barber, Lina

Boehm, Jennifer

Hart, Leroy

Havener, Nancy Johnson, Bobbie

Mays, Dinah

Sanders, Clara Sanders, Clara Vandenberghe, Beverly

Pratt, Jewely

Burns, Karla

The Burton Foundation

Community State Bank

Farmers National Bank

Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center

Gold Rush

Hahnaman Township Homestead of Morrison

Hopkins Township

Jordan Township

Kroger’s Kunes Dealership of Morrison

Latigo, Bea McCormick, Linda Martinez, Berta

McCormick, Dick McCouhglin, Melissa Fraternal Order of Eagles

Qureski, Nazir

Percycce, Robert Rodriguez, Sami

Sanders, Clara

Sullivan’s of Morrison

Sutton, Julie Tampico Township Whitlock, Jan

100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL, 61021

Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Main number: 815-288-9236

Transportation : 815-288-9236

E-mail: lccoa@comcast.net

Online: www.leecountycouncilonaging.net and on Facebook

POST HOUSE BALLROOM

815-288-9236

Online: www.posthouseballroom.net

OUTREACH DEPARTMENT

Outreach services and free phones for hearing impaired

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

LCCOA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & OFFICERS

Bonnie O’Connell — Chair

Ed Pillar — Vice Chair

Roberta Lemoine — Secretary

Darla Foulker — Attorney

Ben Gallentine — CPA (Johnson CPA, LLC)

Committee members: Cindy Gabany, Jeff Haub, Andrea Pratt and Sami Rodriguez

LCCOA SENIOR TRANSPORTATION

815-288-9236

LEE-OGLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

Hours: 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday

888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

Fares: (within zip code)

Ages 5 and 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

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 815-622-9230

WCSC BOARD MEMBERS AND OFFICERS

Joe Bright — President

Karla Burns — Vice President

Sasha Logan — Treasurer

Board members: John Booker, Al Campbell, Owen Harrell, Gene Jacoby, Emily Taylor

WHITESIDE COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

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

Fares: (within county)

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

Ages 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

Upcoming Trips: LCCOA

Membership not required for trips — all seniors are welcome!

The Niagara Falls Trip

June 4-10, 2023 — 6 days, 5 nights and 10 meals

Price: $849 for members; $874 for non-members

Visit Niagara Falls, Erie Canal, New York wine country and the Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum!

The Biltmore Estates and Blue Ridge Mountains Trip

Aug. 6-11, 2023 — 6 days, 5 nights and 8 meals

Price: $699 for members; $724 for non-members

Visit the Biltmore Estates and Grounds; Antler Village and Winery; Asheville, North Carolina; the Blue Ridge Mountains Parkway; Folk Art Center and Kentucky Artisan Center.

The Alaska Cruise on the Royal Princess

September 16-23, 2023 — 8 days and 7 nights

Price: Inside cabin $2,842 per person for an inside cabin; $3,582 per person for a balcony cabin Princess Plus. FREE plus Beverage Package, FREE Unlimited wi-fi, FREE prepaid gratuities.

The Atlantic City, New York, Philadelphia Trip

Sept. 30-Oct. 5 —7 days, 6 nights and 9 meals

Price: $859 for members; $884 for non-members

Take a guided tour of Manhattan. Enjoy a free day in Atlantic City to spend in the Casinos or take a walk on the Boardwalk along the Atlantic Ocean — or both! See several places of historical significance in beautiful Philadelphia, including the Liberty Bell. Stop in Hershey, Penn., at the Hershey’s Chocolate World. There’ll also

Upcoming Trips: WCSC

The Ark Encounter & Creations Museum

Monday, May 22-Friday, May 26, 2023

5 days & 4 nights

Price: $717 for members, based on double occupancy

Ark Encounter, Creation Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center, Omnimax Show and BB Riverboat sightseeing cruise. Please be sure to purchase your trip insurance.

Sights & Sounds of Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Monday, Aug. 7-Friday, Aug. 11, 2023

5 days & 4 nights

Price: $826 for members, based on double occupancy

Performance of “Moses” at the Sight and Sound Theater. Guided tour of the Amish Countryside, including stops at an Amish Craft Farm and Bake Shop, Kitchen Kettle Village, country store and miniature horse farm.

Amtrak Ride Thru New River Gorge

Thursday, Sept. 22-Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023

5 days & 4 nights

Price: $946 for members, based on double occupancy

Huntington Museum of Art, Heritage Farm Museum and Village tour, Amtrak ride through New River Gorge, Lewisburg walking tour, North House museum and Greensburg Bunker tour.

Day Trip in progress ...

Timberlake Theatre — In July. A matinee and picnic lunch to watch “9 to 5 The Musical.”

Fireside Dinner Theater —In August

Riverboat Twilight — A two-day (1 overnight) trip departing from LeClaire, Iowa, in early October.

Casino Trip — More details to follow…

be a guided tour of New York City — stop and see the Statue of Liberty and visit Ellis Island.

COMING IN 2024 ...

The trip of a lifetime — Discover the path of Jesus, from Bethlehem to Jerusalem

February 26-March 5, 2024 — 9 days, 8 nights, and 14 meals

Price: $3,899 per person for members, based on double occupancy

There will be a special presentation on this trip on Tuesday, April 4, at 3 p.m. at LCCOA.

More information

For more information on any of the trips, or to have a flyer mailed to you, please reach out to Marisa Perales at Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 or email lccoaoffice@comcast.net. You can also find a list of our trips by visiting www.leecountycouncilonaging.net.

Weekly activities at WCSC

FOR THE LATEST UPDATES AND DAILY ACTIVITIES PLEASE GO TO OUR WHITESIDE COUNTY SENIOR CENTER FACEBOOK PAGE.

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.

Walk-in

Mondays, April 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

This is a first-come/first-serve event. Please check in at the reception desk.

Tech Time with students from Whiteside Area Career Center

Friday, April 14, 21, 28. This month they will host classes on how to order groceries online to be delivered (Class time 10 to 11 a.m.), and how to order groceries for pick-up (class time 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.). Classes are limited to 4 people. Please sign up at the receptionist desk.

Adult coloring

Wednesday, April 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 12:15 p.m.

Bible Study

Tuesday, April 4 at 10 a.m.

Bingo

Wednesday, April 12 and 26 at 12:15 p.m.

Thank you to our sponsor, CGH Health

Foundation, who is sponsoring both Bingos for April. Please go to our Facebook for more information regarding their upcoming 9-week class for dementia caregivers. Please bring a $1 donation for the Food Pantry.

Breakfast Club

Friday April 14 at 9 a.m. Note that this meeting is rescheduled due to the Center being closed April 7 for Good Friday. Please call 815-622-9230 to get your name on the list.

Canasta

Wednesday, April 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 9 a.m.-noon

Euchre

Tuesday, April 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 12:30 p.m.

Foot Clinic

Wednesday, April 5 and 12 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 or Sharon at 815-718-5294 to set up an appointment.

Food Pantry

Thursday, April 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 1-3 p.m

Hand and Foot

Thursday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 12:30 p.m.

Knitting Club

Tuesday, April 4, 11, 18, and 25 from noon-4 p.m.

Learn to Quilt

Monday, April 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 1-3 p.m.

Line Dancing

Friday, April 14, 21, and 28 (Advance 10-11 a.m. — Beginners 11 a.m.-noon)

Mexican Train Dominoes

Friday, April 14, 21, and 28 at 12:30 p.m.

Parlor Club

Tuesday, April 11 at 8 a.m.

Please call Angela Gibbs at 815-6229230 to sign up to ensure your transportation. $10 for members and $20 for non-members.

Pinochle

Monday, April 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 12:30-4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 12:30-4 p.m.

Friday, April 14, 21, and 28 from 12:30-4 p.m.

Pool table

Tuesday, April 11, 18 and 25 from 1-4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 9 a.m.-noon

Thursday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 1-4 p.m.

Price is Right

Wednesday, April 5 at 10 a.m. We’re looking for sponsors for this event.

Scrapbook — New activity

Thursday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 from noon-2 p.m.

SCUG

Saturday, April 8 at 1 p.m. Sauk Computer User Group will meet at 1 p.m. for a question-and-answer time. There will be a short business meeting and then there will be a presentation by PcTech2U on computer-related subjects. Everyone with an interest in computers/ technology is invited, refreshments will be available.

Travel Club

Monday, April 3 at 10 a.m.

Yoga

Tuesday, April 4 at 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 11, 18, and 25 at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 10 a.m.

Wheel of Fortune

Wednesday, April 19 at 12:15 p.m. We’re looking for sponsors for this event.

Veterans Coffee

Thursday, April 13 at 9 a.m.

Weekly activities at LCCOA

PLEASE NOTE: PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE SENIOR CENTER

Mondays

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Exercise with Brandan, utilizing our new exercise bikes. Please call for an appointment.

11 a.m. — Chair Yoga with Brandan

1 p.m. — Rummikub

1 p.m. – Writers workshop the third Monday of the month

Tuesdays

1 p.m. – Puzzle Tuesday. Compete against teams. Prizes and free refreshments

10 a.m. — New event — Mens Coffee Hour

1 p.m. — New group for Rummikub, for

those who cannot play on Mondays.

1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month — Free lunch and a movie

1 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month — Travel Club. Share past travels and explore new adventures, with a complimentary glass of wine.

1:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month — Laptop and PC class; by appointment.

3 p.m. on the first and second Tuesdays of the month — The Basics of Smart Phone; by appointment.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Help with Medicare and Medicaid; Call for an appointment.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — License plate discount; call for an appointment.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Phones for the hearing impaired; appointment required.

Wednesdays

Noon on the first Wednesday of every month — Networking Committee; site rotates

1 p.m. — Chair Yoga for seniors

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Help with Medicare and Medicaid. Call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — License plate discount; call for an appointment.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Phones for the hearing

impaired; appointment required.

Thursdays

10 a.m.-4 p.m. – Help with Medicare and Medicaid. Call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

1 p.m. — Crafters, knitting, crocheting

Fridays

10a.m.-11:30 a.m. — Exercise with Brandan, utilizing our new exercise bikes; appointment required

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Help with Medicare and Medicaid; call 815-288-9236 for an appointment.

12:30 p.m. — Euchre players

1 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes

Special Events at LCCOA

PLEASE NOTE: PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE SENIOR CENTER

Puzzle Tuesday

April 18 at 1 p.m. Come on down and bring your team of four, or join in on another team. Prizes and refreshments will be provided. Put your skills to work and meet other puzzle lovers.

Free raffle for a handmade quilt

LCCOA has been blessed with another beautiful quilt from the gifted fingers of Dorothy Szewczyk. The quilt will be raffled off Easter Monday. The tickets are free!! Look for the picture of the wonderful quilt elsewhere in this issue of Golden Echo.

PFLAG and LCCOA will host an LGBTQ event

April 10 from 2-3:30 p.m. In the Post House Ballroom; no vaccination required to attend. Come listen,

learn and ask questions — PFLAG is here to inform. Refreshments will be served.

LCCOA breakfast & Bingo

Friday, April 21 at 9:30 a.m. The games, the prizes and the fun are free! There’s also a free breakfast, right from the kitchen at KSB Hospital! Bingo prizes will be $5 Walmart gift cards, or any item from our Gift Shop!

Writers Workshop

Every third Monday at 1 p.m. Beginning in April, a writer’s workshop will be held in the Post House Ballroom (vaccinations not required to attend). All are welcome, but reservations are required.

Exercise One-on-One with Brandan

Mondays & Friday 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Come join our free workout program!

Brandon is available to assist you with our new exercise equipment two days per week. Call 815-288-9236 to set up an appointment.

NEW PROGRAM: LCCOA mens coffee hour

Tuesdays at 10 a.m. “Where the coffee is free and the talk is cheap!”

Beginning This Spring!

We will be hosting a series of lectures, from authors to historians during workshops. Free lunch will be included. Watch for dates and time on Facebook and in the Golden Echo

Presentations

If you would like LCCOA to do a presentation at your club, corporation or church we would be honored to share what LCCOA provides the seniors of Lee County.

Special Events at WCSC

FOR THE LATEST UPDATES AND DAILY ACTIVITIES PLEASE GO TO OUR WHITESIDE COUNTY SENIOR CENTER FACEBOOK PAGE.

AARP Tax Prep

April 3, 10 and 17

Election polling

The Center will act as an election polling place on Tuesday, April 4.

New to Medicare

Tuesday, April 18 at 11:30 a.m. Free

community meal

Friday, April 21 at noon.

We’ll be having Hobo Stew and celebrating Susie’s 29th birthday. Thank you to our sponsors, Burton Foundation, Farmers National Bank, Gold Rush, Kroger’s, Kunes Auto Group and Walmart.

MEDICARE TIP

Annual senior fair

Monday, April 24 from 10 a.m.-noon Free to seniors.

Food fundraiser

Friday, April 28 at noon.

Join us for a traditional Easter ham dinner. Cost is $7.

Center members’ birthday celebration

Friday, April 28, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Thank you to our sponsor, Sullivan’s of Morrison.

Karaoke

Friday, April 28 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Yes, Medicare covers home health

If you qualify, Medicare can cover the following home health services: skilled nursing, skilled therapy, home health aide, medical social services, medical supplies and durable medical equipment. Certain requirements must be met in order to be eligible for this benefit.

STERLING Stress relief classes for caregivers offered

STERLING — People can sign up now to attend a free 9-week Dementia Caregiver Stress-Busting Program offered by the CGH Health Foundation, in partnership with Lifescape.

Classes run from April 5 to May 31 on Wednesdays, and in an effort to accommodate people’s schedules, two classes — both identical — are available, at either 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. Classes last an hour and a half and will be held at the CGH Clinic, 2600 N. Locust St., in the Foundation Community Room.

The Stress-Busting Program for family caregivers is an evidence-based program that provides support to family caregivers of persons with dementia or a chronic illness. It improves the quality of life of family caregivers who are providing care to a loved one and helps caregivers manage their stress and cope better with their lives.

To register, go tocghmc.com/ stress-busting, call 815-625-0400 (ext. 5672), or e-mail joan.hermes@cghmc. com by Wednesday, March 29.

People encouraged to ‘Lead With Love’

Thank you to our sponsor, Melissa McCullough.

Matter of balance class

Classes are limited to 12 individuals at a time. We will offer this class in Sterling and in Fulton as soon as we have 12 people signed up. Please stop by the Center or call 815-622-9320 to sign up for this program.

DIXON — PFLAG Sauk Valley and the Lee County Council on Aging invite you to “Learn. Lean in. Lead With Love,” an educational event aimed at helping us grow in understanding of our LGBTQ+ friends, neighbors and community members. The event — which runs from 2-3:30 p.m. Monday, April 10, at The Post House Ballroom, 100 W. Second St. — will help people learn how to work together so everyone can feel accepted, respected and safe.

Refreshments will be provided. No vaccination required to attend.