SVM_Golden Echo_February 2023

From the LCCOA

Executive Director

By Susan Lawler

Happy Valentine’s Day! The staff and I are getting ready for a fun-filled February. The Post House Ballroom is rocking with six events in February. We are getting ready for our trip to New Orleans, which will offer 49 seniors an opportunity to have the time of their life. Marisa is looking forward to this trip with all her senior friends. I cannot wait to hear their stories; they should be good ones! We will be delivering on Valentine’s Day more than 50 lunches, with a little surprise in each. On Feb 17, we will be having Breakfast Bingo; if you missed January’s you don’t want to miss February’s. This is just the beginning of the month — wait till you see what we have in store for you.

Chair Yoga

Chair Yoga has been such a hit, we have added a second day. Monday’s at 11 a .m. Brandan will be stimulating as usual, and he will make you work — but what a reward. Everyone tells us that they are feeling years younger. So come on down to LCCOA and work your little bodies; you will not regret it.

Rummikub

We have added a second day to Rummikub — if Monday’s don’t work for you, try us

From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch

We have an exciting month of activities at the Center this month. In honor of Valentine’s Day, we will be celebrating all week long. My favorite Valentine’s Day was several years ago (decades ago) when I was first dating the love of my life. It was snowing and he showed up dressed in a suit and tie — and he was late to pick me up! He handed me a Hershey’s candy bar (my favorite) and a card that said “I like you.” My girlfriend teased me that his lateness was because of all the “I love you” cards he had to look through before coming to the one “I like you” card. Those memories are precious to me now that he is gone. On Feb. 13 at 10 a.m., we will be having a special Valentines Grief Support group. Please bring your favorite Valentine’s memory, like I have, to share with this group.

on Tuesday. We are starting another group to accommodate the demand. If you would like to be a teacher, we are looking for someone to teach the new group. Give us a call at 815-288-9236; we would love to have you be a part of our volunteer family.

Knitting and Crocheting

Sandy Fry was one of our beloved crafters. She passed away, leaving bins of yarn and craft items. If you would like to come down to the Center, I’m sure Sandy would have loved for you to utilize her items. Give us a call at 815-288-9236.

Euchre

We have a great bunch of Euchre players, which meet every Friday at noon. Why stay home and watch TV when you can put your mind to work? If you like a bit of competition, there will be some that will give you a run for your money. See you Friday for a game or two and a lot of laughs.

Mexican Train

If you like Dominoes you will love Mexican Train. It gives dominoes a new meaning. The group meets on Fridays at 1 p.m. We always provide a treat or two, and you will meet new friends. This group loves to go band hopping; you just might find your new hobby.

Trips and more Trips

LCCOA has so many trips in store for you. Seniors are coming from all over to join up with our fun-loving Lee County seniors. To date, we have seniors from Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Indiana. They have read our Echo, viewed our web page, and seen us on Facebook. One senior said “you look like a fun Center to join.” All of them have become members of LCCOA.

On Feb. 14, we will be serving cookies all day long in honor of Valentine’s Day — but the fun won’t stop there. On Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 12:15 p.m., volunteer Bev VanDenBerghe will be acting as Host of the Not-So-Newlywed game show at the Center. Join us as our participants, Dorothy and Phil Szewczyk, Kay and Harold Monroe, and Jan and Bob Whitlock, compete against each other. This will be an event not to miss. Please come out and cheer your favorite couples on and stay for the laughs and giggles. The fun will not stop there as we will wrap up the week with a Valentine’s Dinner and Dance on February 17, starting at noon. We will be serving Teddy’s famous meatloaf, potatoes and baked beans for $7 per meal. The dance will start immediately afterwards, at 1 p.m., and last until 3 p.m.

Fun and games

If you haven’t tried it yet, you must join in the fun for Wheel of Fortune Feb. 8 at 12:15 p.m. Volunteer Bev VanDenberghe does her best Vanna White impersonation. Price is Right will be Feb. 1 at 10 a.m. and Bingo will be on Feb. 22 at 12:15 p.m.. February will have fun games every Wednesday! Please don’t miss out on loads of fun and chances to win.

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.

They wished they lived in Lee County, as their Senior Centers have nothing to offer them. Two gals, who are real hoots, said, “We can do Bingo anywhere, but we want to see the world.” Most seniors have been afraid to travel by themselves, and LCCOA provides them the safety, and the opportunity to enjoy travel without the fear. You know what they say: “Safety in Numbers.” Give us a call at 815-288-9236. We are heading to the Caribbean, Alaska, Niagara Falls, New York, Philadelphia, and Jerusalem. We have something for everyone. Pack those bags, here we go, grab your passport, and away we go! Don’t sit and watch life pass you by, become an active part of the play.

Homemakers Education Association

Marilyn Kemmerer, president of HEA announced that HEA, which has been servicing Lee County for over 93 years, will close their doors (see article elsewhere in this issue of Echo). We here at LCCOA are saddened that this wonderful organization’s doors will be closed. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Marilyn and all of the HEA staff for serving the farm community; what a great loss to the future generations. Hopefully all the talent, education and crafting will be passed on to our grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In HEA’s final moments they took the time to give one final donation. Their generous donation to LCCOA will not be forgotten, nor will their presence here at LCCOA. Over the years this organization would come and utilize the Center for programs and gatherings. We are still here for HEA’s members. Whatever LCCOA can provide; we would like to be a part of their future. The baton has been

Meal time

Our Senior Community Meal will be on Feb. 24, the first Friday of Lent. We will be serving Salmon patties, mashed potatoes and corn. This will be a free meal for any senior in Whiteside County, thanks to Walmart and Farmers National Bank. Allure will be providing dessert that day.

IT help

We are happy to announce that the WACC IT students will be back in the building on Fridays, starting Feb. 3, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. then again from 12:30-2:15 p.m. The students are here to assist you with your cell phone, tablet or computer issues. It’s just like having a built-in grandchild to assist you at the Center. Neal is here Monday thru Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and offers one-on-one computer classes.

Free bulbs

The Center received a generous donation of light bulbs from Commonwealth Edison for the seniors of Whiteside County. Please stop by our receptionist station to pick up a pack or stop by and see Beth at one of our satellite offices for a package:

• Fulton City Hall, 415 11th Ave., from

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

passed to the University of Illinois Extension. They will have big shoes to fill!!

Don’t miss our first Writers Workshop

On Friday, March 3, LCCOA will serve a free lunch, host a presentation and hold a writers workshop. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a published author who will conduct an afternoon workshop for all our blossoming writers. Professor Dr. Aaron Lawler from Waubonsie College will stimulate and engage your minds with his knowledge and talents. Please call 815-288-9236; reservations are required to reserve your lunch.

A Wonderful Gift Comes With Sadness

We received a very generous donation from the family of Robert Wright Jr., but it came with a loss of our dear friend, Robert. Robert passed away peacefully with his family, and his wishes were that his family would make a donation on his behalf. Robert was a constant visitor to LCCOA; he worked for the Nachusa House; which was just next door, and often visited us after work or on his lunch. I was always trying to persuade Robert to come work for LCCOA. He was a hard-working gentle man who was the maintenance person at the Nachusa House. He said he wanted to retire to a job where he could spend more time with his children and family, whom he loved dearly and spoke of often. We truly will miss this wonderful man with his unique smile and his many stories of Dixon and the Post House. Heaven’s gain is our loss. Goodbye, old friend, until we meet again.

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

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 14 and March 7

• Morrison, at the Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison St., from 2 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 14 and March 7

• Prophetstown, at Riverview Estates, 310 Mosher Drive, from 8 a.m. to noon on Feb. 28 and March 28

• Erie Public Library, 802 Eighth Ave., from 1 to 3 p.m. on Feb. 28 and March 28.

Become a member

It’s not too late to become a new member at the Center. Members receive a significant discount on our trips. Corporate Memberships allow for employees to receive these discounts too! This year’s long trips are all ones I’d like to go on and were chosen by your peers: May 22-26, The Ark Encounter and Creation Museum; August 7-11 Signs and Sounds of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; September 22-26, Amtrak ride through New River Gorge, West Virginia; and December 10-13, Nashville’s Opryland Country Christmas

Make sure you come to the Travel Club meeting at 10 a.m. Feb. 6, to discuss this year’s short trips.

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.

DUES, DONATIONS & THANK YOUS

LCCOA welcomes members

CONTACT INFORMATION

Linda Stearns

Butch Stearns

Peggy Carlson

Jerry Carlson

Tim Sullivan Jr., M.D.

Counrty Financial

Bill Dean

Mary Lou Feczko

Andy Cuchiara

Keane Hudson

Sally Hudson

John King

Judy King

Paul Lahman

Carolyn Lahman

Judith Spangler

Dick Sarver

William & Evelyn Rapp Carey

Dennis Marsh

Lee County HEA

Marilyn Kemmerer

Tim Sullivan Jr., M.D.

Jerry and Peggy Carlson

Carl Gann

Diane Blaine

Duane Paulsen

Dennis Ayres

Edwin Yingling

Douglas Dysart

Bruce anderson

Keith Huff

Charlene Huff

Cindy Gabany

Keith Gabany

Allen Reece

Linda Reece

Janet Reiley

Dona Marsh

Patrick Kavanaugh

Kirsten Kavanaugh

John Wohrley

Joyce Wohrley

Judith Gusse

David Gusse

Stanley Hart Carol Hart

Bob Chambers

Jane Chambers

Robert Schultz

Betty Schultz

Claudia Nelson

David Nelson

Richard Nicklaus

Illa Nicklaus

Stanley Wolzen June Wolzen

Mike Devine

Patricia Lipp

Dan Hallquist

Patty Hallquist

Larry Reed

Louise Reed

Harold Risdon

Levaun Risdon

Janet Reiley

Lyle Eisenberg

Diana Eisenberg

Betty Predmore Country Financial Bill Dean

Patricia Spratt

Karen Didier

Ada Franklin Joe Franklin Shirley Rees

Colette Massoni

Richard Koenig

Carolyn Binkley

Beverley Eykamp

Wayne Smith

Roger Kelly

Joan Kelly Ken Strock

Betty Stumpenhorst

Laurie Sheridan

Marilyn Smallwood Kathi Rowton

Ila Mae Sieberns

Patricia Schmidt

Theresa Heffelfinger

Jacquelin Dixon

Steve Kelly

Cathy Seagren Beverly McMillion

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers and supporters

Country Financial Bill Dean

Ada Franklin Joe Franklin Wayne E. Smith

Roger Kelly

Joan Kelly

Willett Hofmann & Assoc. Philip Devers

Susie Jones

Larry Prindaville Ann Prindaville Merrile Theisinger

Roger Theisinger Jim Coffey Martha Swarts Joan Lemme

PC Tech 2U Inc. — Corporate

Silver Membership

Armstrong, Lorraine Barber, John Barber, Linda Berg, Carroll Berg, Karen Berley, Diane Berley, Stephen

Bluebird Contracting —

Corporate Bronze Membership

Broderick, Ethel Clayton, Kathy

Coloma Township — Corporate Junior Membership Cowley, Karen

First Gateway Credit Union —

Bailey, Barbara Barber, Linda Beacon of Hope Hospice

Boehm, Jennifer Burn, Linda

Community State Bank

Francis Lemme

Robert Wright Jr.’s family

First Presbyterian Church of Franklin Grove

Roger Hill

Terry Christian John and Mary Holthaus

Liberty Court

Heritage Square Lioness Lions Club

Lee County United Way

Amanda Wike Dorothy Szewczyk Linda Setchell

Krisi Chrisham Kathy Ferguson Lee County Health Department

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 Ben Galantine Johnson CPA

Leydig Center Crest Foods Co., Inc.

Kerri Villa-Nantz Liberty Village of

WCSC welcomes members

Corporate Bronze Membership

Dettman, Rebecca Dickson, Robert Fornero, Joseph Fornero, Margie Geil, David Geil, Linda Gibbs, Patricia Hannan, Butch Hannan, Dianna Hewes, Robert (Bob) Home Med. Supply, Northern IL

— Corporate Junior Membership Hughes, Cynthia Koser, Gary Last, Elmer

Last, Freda Letcher, Dale Letcher, Sherry MacLennan, Glenda MacLennan, Terry Maves, Janice Meller, Marilyn Muntean, Harold Nelson, Myrna Nestor, Sue Nestor, Thomas Owano, Margo Peugh, Barbara Pratt, Jewelene Qureshi, Judith Qureshi, Nazir Rich, Nancy

Mary McCoy

Linda Guise

Ruby Bondi

Mary Jo Ridenhour

Terry Swarts

Jane Faber

Willett Hofmann & Associates

Eunice Miller

June Gascoigne

Joanne Hazelwood Marian Hill Richard Montavon

Shirley Long Helen Weaver

Philip Devers

Susie Jones Nancy Morrissey Carl Scroggins

Rochelle Susan Johnson Real Time Joe Fornero Brandan Lumzy Lumzy Yoga Sami Rodriguez Darla Foulker Good Fellows Clara Harris Teen Turf NIAAA Lee County Rusty Schrader Lee Ogle Transportation Lifescape

Rich, Tom Sanders, Clara Schmitt, Joseph Schwarz, Shirley Shipley, Neal Simane, William Smith, Charlene

Sterling Federal Bank — Bronze Membership

Stigall, Darla Surdez, Nancy Tichler, Phyllis Jean Vos, Mary Whitlock, Carroll Whitlock, Kathie Wolcott, Barbara Wolcott, Howard

Thank you to WCSC volunteers and supporters

Ferris, Kay Framers National Bank Hart, Leroy Johnson, Bobbie Mays, Dinah

McCormick, Dick McCormick, Linda Qurechi, Navir Riverbend Food

Sauk Valley Food Bank

SCUG Short, Peyton Sullivan’s Vandenberghe, Bev Walmart of Rock Falls

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

Walmart of Sterling WACC – IT Department Whitlock, Carroll Whitlock, Jan Homestead Resthaven

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

Our bingo players are increasing in numbers!!! Enjoy lunch then stay and try your luck. We’d like to thank our current first Bingo game of the month sponsors: Community State Bank and Homestead. We are looking for a second Bingo game of the month sponsors(s).

Fun and games at WCSC

Price Is Right ... If you shop locally, this is a game for you. Test your product knowledge and win the prize. We’re currently looking for sponsors for our Bingo, Wheel of Fortune and Price is Right games. Please contact Patty Martinez at 815-622-9230 for further details.

Join our lovely hostess and Activity Coordinator, Patty Martinez, for Wheel of Fortune. We’re currently looking for sponsors for our Bingo, Wheel of Fortune and Price is Right games. Please contact Patty Martinez at 815-622-9230 for further details.

Pictured above and at right are some of the seniors at our Christmas Party. We were a small group of 18, but what fun we had playing games. Lunch was provided by ITAC, which provides phones for the hearing impaired.

Chair Yoga has really taken off, and we are now offering a second day and time. Our instructor, Brandan, has done a wonderful job in helping all our seniors stay healthy and strong. Chair Yoga will be held on Mondays at 11 a.m. and Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

Thank you, Roger Hill, for your donation of a third bike.

Anna Mainhart demonstrates ITAC phones for the hearing impaired at Embrace Living/ Green Castle of Sterling.

Upcoming Trips: LCCOA Upcoming Trips/ Events: WCSC

LCCOA trips — A great way to travel!

Everyone 60+ is welcome — no membership required. Seats are filling up fast! A $75 deposit reserves your seat. The price of the trip includes your transportation, hotel, most meals, and any admission fees. The only additional funds needed will be for your extras. The benefits of group travel are ...

• A stress-free trip — Everything is taken care of. We take care of the itineraries that include the best destinations, and group leaders will get you from one place to the next without you having to worry about making your own decision.

• Communication and like-minded travelers — When you travel with own likeminded peers and enjoy memorable adventures together, you can quickly bond. You really create lifelong new friends and travel together again.

• Exclusive and ease of access — When you travel with us, you get to see parts of the destination you normally wouldn’t see on your own. We typically go “behind the scenes,” or are treated to special dinners and live shows. The tour bus also drops and picks up at the front doors, ease of driving, walking, and parking.

• Local Insight — When you travel with us, you are never on your own, we provide the knowledge of each location and help along the way with any need that may arise. Ready to Travel with LCCOA? Call 815-288-9236 and ask for Marisa.

New Orleans Trip

Feb. 12-18, 2023 — 7 days and 6 nights

Cost: $715 for members, $740 for non-members, per person, based on double occupancy — Price includes 10 meals Motor coach transportation, lodging, admission fees.

The Niagara Falls Trip June 4-10, 2023 — 6 days & 5 nights

Cost: $849 for members, $874 for non-members — Price includes 10 meals Visit Niagara Falls, Erie Canal, and New York wine country, and visit the Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum!

The Biltmore Estate and Blue Ridge Mountains Trips

Aug. 6-11, 2023 — 6 days and 5 nights

Cost: $699 for members, $724 for non-members— Price includes 8 meals 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 Alaskan Cruise on the Royal Princess

Sept. 16-23, 2023 — 8 days and 7 nights

Cost: Inside cabin $2,842 person, balcony cabin, $3,582 per person Princess Plus, free plus beverage package, free Unlimited Wi-fi, free prepaid gratuities

The Atlantic City, New York City, Philadelphia trip

Sept. 23-29 — 7 days and 6 nights

Cost: $839 for members, $864 for non-members — Price includes 9 meals 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. Stop in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at the Hershey’s Chocolate World!

The Trip of a Lifetime — Discover the Path of Jesus, rom Bethlehem to Jerusalem

Feb. 26-March 5, 2024 — 9 days and 8 nights

Cost: $3,899 for members, per person based on double occupancy — Price includes 14 meals

Special travel presentation on Tuesday, April 4, at 3 p.m. LCCOA. 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 by emailing lccoaoffice@comcast.net. You can also find a list of our trips by visiting our website at www.leecountycouncilonaging.net

Ideas for weekend or day trips, musicals or concerts?

We are in the process of creating short trips for this winter & 2023. Please let us know how to add a little culture to your activities by contacting Angela Gibbs via email at a.gibbs@wc-seniorcenter.org, by phone at 815-622-9230 ext. 302.

The Ark Encounter & Creations Museum

Monday-Friday, May 22-26, 2023 — 5 days/4 nights

Cost: $717 for members, based on double occupancy

Ark Encounter, Creation Museum, Cincinnati Museum center, Omnimax Show and BB Riverboat sightseeing cruise.

Sights & Sounds of Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Monday-Friday, Aug. 7-11, 2023 — 5 days/4 nights

Cost: $826 for members, based on double occupancy

Performance of “Moses” at the Sight & Sound Theater. Guided tour of the Amish Countryside, including stops at an Amish craft farm and bake shop, Kitchen Kettle Village and country store, and miniature horse farm.

Amtrak Ride Thru New River Gorge

Thursday-Tuesday, Sept. 22-26, 2023 — 5 days/4 nights

Cost: $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.

Nashville’s Opryland Country Christmas

Sunday-Wednesday, Dec. 10-13, 2023 — 4 days/3 nights

Cost: $1,126 for members, based on double occupancy

General Jackson Riverboat luncheon cruise/holiday entertainment, 2 dinners, Country Music Hall of Fame, Brightest Star Foundation show, Two Million lights, Delta River flatboat ride, themed ice sculptures and exhibit, and a guided tour of Nashville.

Cookies all day

Tuesday, Feb. 14

Not So Newlywed Game

Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 12:15 p.m.

Food Fundraiser

Friday, Feb. 17, from noon-1 p.m.

Meatloaf, potatoes, baked beans — $7 per person

Valentine’s Dance

Friday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m.

Feed Our Seniors

Friday, Feb. 24, at noon

Free meal offered to seniors of Whiteside County: Salmon patties, potatoes and corn. Dessert sponsored by Allure

Computer/Technology assistance

Tuesday-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

Monday, Feb. 6, 13 & 27 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

New to Medicare Class

Thursday, Feb. 23, at 11:30 a.m.

AARP Tax Prep

Monday, Feb. 6, 13, and 27 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Adult Coloring

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 at 12:15 p.m.

Bingo

(looking for sponsors)

Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 12:15 p.m. Please bring a $1 donation for the Food Pantry. This event will take place in the Big Room upstairs.

Breakfast Club

Friday, Feb. 24 at 9 a.m.

Weekly activities at WCSC

PLEASE NOTE: NO PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER.

Call 815-622-9230 to get your name on the list.

Canasta

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 from 9 a.m.-noon

Euchre

Tuesday, Feb. 7, 14, 21 & 28th at 12:30 p.m.

Foot Clinic

Wednesday, Feb. 1 & 8 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 or Sharon at 815-718-5294 to set up an appointment.

Food Pantry

Thursday, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 1-3 p.m.

Grieve Group

Monday, Feb. 13 at 10 a.m.

Hand & Foot Game

Thursday, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23 at 12:30 p.m.

Knitting Club

Tuesday, Feb. 7, 14, 21 & 28 from noon-4 p.m.

Learn to Quilt

Monday, Feb. 6, 13 & 27 from 1-3 p.m.

Line Dancing

Friday, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24

Advance: 10-11 a.m. Beginners: 11 a.m.-noon

Mexican Train Dominoes

Friday, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 at 12:30 p.m.

Members Birthday Celebrations and Karaoke Singalong

Friday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m.

Parlor Club

No Parlor Club this month

Pinochle

Monday, Feb. 6, 13 & 27 from 12:30-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 from 12:15-4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 from 12:30-4 p.m.

Pool Table

Tuesday, Feb. 7, 14, 21 & 28 from 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 from

Weekly activities at LCCOA

PLEASE NOTE: PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER.

Mondays

9:30 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

Tuesdays

10 a.m. — NEW: Mens Coffee Hour

1 p.m. — New group for Rummikub, for those who cannot play on Mondays.

1 p.m. — Third Tuesday of the month: Free Lunch and a Movie

1 p.m. – Fourth Tuesday of the month: Travel Club – share past travels and explore new adventures, with a complimentary glass of wine 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Help with Medicare and Medicaid; call for an appointment 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – License plate discount 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Phones for the hearing impaired; appointment required

3 p.m. — The basics of using a Smart Phone; by appointment 3 p.m. — Computer help

Wednesdays

Noon — 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 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

9:30 a.m. -12:30 p.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

9 a.m.-noon. Thursday, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 1-4 p.m.

Price is Right

(looking for sponsors)

Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 10 a.m. SCUG

Saturday, Feb. 11 at 1 p.m.

Travel Club

Monday, Feb. 6 at 10 a.m.

Yoga

Tuesday, Feb. 7, 14, 21 & 28 from 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 10 a.m.

Wheel of Fortune

Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 12:15 p.m.

Veterans Coffee

Thursday, Feb. 9 at 9 a.m.

appointment

12:30 p.m. — Euchre players 1 p.m. — Mexican Train Dominoes

The Holiday Gift Shop is still open!

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday Items for 25¢ up to $3 — perfect for gift-giving all year long!

AARP Tax-Aides

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 7, at LCCOA AARP-trained Tax-Aides will be here at LCCOA again this year. Call LCCOA at 815-288-9236 for your appointment.

Exercise One-on-One with Brandan

This free program uses new workout

Special Events at LCCOA

PLEASE NOTE: PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER.

equipment for a new workout program for seniors! Now two days a week: Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call 815-288-9236 to set up an appointment.

NEW PROGRAM: LCCOA Mens Coffee Hour!!

Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

A brand new Bingo: Breakfast and Bingo!

Friday, Feb. 17, at 9:30 a.m. The games, the prizes and all the fun are free! Breakfast, right from the

Farewell to a friend to women

on

the farm and a friend to LCCOA

After 93 years of service to Lee County’s farming community, the Lee County Homemakers Education Association is closing its doors.

This organization opened in 1929 as the Home Bureau, along with the Farm Bureau, and through the years it’s seen many changes — but it always focused on one main goal: to educate and encourage the woman in the farming communities of Lee County.

kitchen at KSB Hospital, is FREE! Bingo prizes will include $5 Walmart gift cards, or any item from the Holiday Gift Shop!

Free lunch and a Writers Workshop

Friday, March 3, at 11:30 a.m. Lunch and a presentation, followed by the Writers Workshop. Be sure to reserve your lunch, by calling us at 815288-9236.

Senior Single Mingle in March

It’s a great opportunity to meet new

HEA often went through the countryside, from one township to the next, teaching farm wives how to make crafts, quilt, plant and canned vegetables, even how to make their own hats, since store bought hats were too costly.

Yes, Lee County Homemakers Education Association of Amboy is closing its doors, but the group is passing the baton to Lee County University of Illinois Extension Office in Amboy to carry on its mission and goals.

LCCOA is saddened to see this wonderful organiza-

BRIEFS

people. Please call 815-288-9236 for time and dates.

Coming in March!

We will be hosting a series of lectures and workshops, from authors to historians and more. A 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 for the seniors of Lee County.

tion become an association of the past. HEA spent many hours here at LCCOA in the past years, educating and teaching the residents of Lee County. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support, and for their generous donation. Even at the end they are still supporting the seniors of Lee County who helped build this county’s history. Your friendship will not be forgotten, nor your generosity. Thank you for all you have done for LCCOA, and Lee County, may God look kindly on all of you hard-working dedicated educators.

New Dementia Caregiver Support Group in Chadwick

CHADWICK — A new support group is providing a safe place for caregivers of a family member or a friend with dementia to develop a support system.

The first meeting of the Chadwick Dementia Caregiver Support Group was held Jan. 2, and more meetings have already been planned.

Residents from the Chadwick, Lanark, Shannon, and Mount Carroll area are welcome to attend. Co-leaders are Alan Skoog and Becky Geison, who have completed support group leadership training through the Alzheimer’s Association.

The group was formed in partnership with the CGH Health Foundation Dementia Project, and one of the goals of the initiative is to help create Dementia Caregiver Support Groups in all the towns in the CGH Medical Center service area.

Meetings will be held at the First Lutheran Church, 19 W. Second St., Chadwick, at 3:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month. However, the time may change depending on the needs of group attendees, so it’s best to call

ahead and check.

Call Alan or Becky at 815-590-6372 or 815-499-5161 to register. Arrangements can be made to take care of your loved one during the meeting, if the leaders are notified in advance.

February Medicare tip

Jan. 1-March 31 is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. You can make only one change during this period. Changes will take effect the first of the month after the plan gets your request.

You can ...

• If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage), switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage).

• Disenroll from your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare. If you choose to do so, you’ll be able to join a Medicare drug plan.

• If you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan during your Initial Enrollment Period, change to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage), or go back to Original Medicare (with or without a Medicare drug plan) within the first 3 months you have Medicare.