From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch

We had so much fun at our Celebrity Chef Guest Day with Nick from Isle of Rhodes. Nick donated all the food and labor to help us raise money. A big thanks Nick and the staff. We loved it! Thank you to all who came out and made it such a special day. We have some interest from another restaurant the days.

Biltmore and Atlantic City

Our trips are booking up! We can take a few more for Biltmore and Atlantic City, so if you missed out on Niagara Falls, don’t miss out on these two trips. Now really — who wouldn’t want to see the Statue of Liberty, and check out your ancestors who went through Ellis Island? I have seen them both, and I want you to know there is a sense of freedom that overwhelms you with the sight of the Statue of Liberty and sense of history with Ellis Island. Come and join us for an exciting and interesting trip.

Men’s Coffee/Breakfast Hour

If you are bored and would like to meet new friends, stop by LCCOA and have a cup of coffee and maybe work on a puzzle or play a game of cards — or what about just old-fashion conversation? I hear it is good for the mind and body!! Please call 815-288-9236 to reserve your breakfast.

Bingo and Breakfast

If you are not interested in playing Bingo, come for the breakfast and conversation — we always have a great breakfast and wonderful prizes. Terry Christian has made amazing centerpieces, which can be enjoyed or given to a friend, and our Wal-Mart gift cards are a hit. Come join us for a morning of fun, conversation, and of course, Bingo.

Blood Pressure

On June 12 at noon, LCCOA will partner with KSB to do a presentation on healthy eating and understanding diabetes, and the truth and the myths about this disease. Come join us for a healthy lunch and an educational afternoon of questions and answers. Please call 815288-9236 to reserve your lunch.

wanting to participate in our Celebrity Chef Guest Day; we hope to have more information for you soon.

We are so excited to announce a special Basic Beginners Line Dance class for all who need a little bit of help before the Beginners class at the Center on Fridays at 11 a.m. Two of our volunteers will be leading a class at O’Dell Library Community Room in Morrison from 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays through June 29. Just stop on by and you’ll be ready to come dance at the Center in no time.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out our looming club on Wednesdays and scrapbooking on Thursdays, or our new backgammon on Friday after -

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.

Passing of our friends

LCCOA and the Lee County community share a loss of four seniors who have just passed away.

We first received the news regarding Richard Pope. Richard was a quiet man who stayed to himself and worked on many projects. We would see Richard on the weekends coming over to our outside library to pick up books for the week; he was an avid reader. His home was filled with all types of books from crafts, knitting, crocheting, gardening and even mysteries. We often asked him to join us at the Center, but he would reply “he was just too busy.” Between LCCOA driving him to his medical appointments, and Richard working on his artistic and very creative blankets, nurturing his plants, and reading his books; he clearly didn’t have time. He filled his life with all of his favorite things. We will miss seeing him browse through all our books, just to find the right one to read. Farewell, old friend, until we meet again.

David Edmunds passed away quietly in his home here in Dixon. He was great supporter of LCCOA, and would be the first to spread the word of our events and happenings. We really grew to know David over the years, taking him to his medical appointments and grocery shopping. He even did a stint on the radio to promote the Center and Transportation. He truly loved us, and always had a kind word to say about the staff, drivers, and our Center. We all will miss David. His request was to be part of our Butterfly Garden. Please join us to celebrating his life in July, when we will be dedicating another plaque to the memories of our beloved friends.

Beverly Duryea passed away surrounded by her loving family. We here at LCCOA will miss this wonderful noons, there’s still time.

If you missed out on the Matter of Balance class that started last month, no worries! We have started a waitlist for the next session. As soon as we have 12 people signed up, we will start the next class. I can’t say this enough: If you are 60 or older, this is a class you must take! It’s only a month-long commitment, two days a week (Mondays & Wednesdays 9:30 to 11 a.m.) If I could have my way, we’d keep this class going until every senior in Whiteside County has taken it! If we can keep just one senior from an unnecessary fall it will be well worth all of our efforts. Plus, it’s just a good time of fellowship, and who couldn’t use that!

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 woman. Over the past years we had the pleasure of transporting Beverly. She truly was an amazing woman. We also feel Beverly should be canonized a saint for all her hard work as a psychiatric nurse at Hines VA Hospital in Maywood. It is a small world; I grew-up near Beverly’s home and I spent many days and nights at Hines VA hospital where my father was treated for cancer. Our paths have crossed so many times in life, but we did not really get to know each other until recently. We know there is a place in heaven for this dedicated and compassionate woman. Thank you, Beverly, for all you gave to this world.

David Lutyens grew up in Sterling. He worked for IDOT here in Dixon and served in the Army Artillery during the 1960s. We had the pleasure of meeting David through his stories that he wrote for our Senior Center book, “Back in My Day.” We truly enjoyed his writings, and he was thrilled we had published his stories. One particular story of David’s, titled “Listening to the Radio,” was a blast from the past. We actually could picture ourselves in front of the radio waiting for our favorite show to be aired. One of David’s favorite was “The Shadow.” At the opening of the broadcast, the announcer would say in very sinister voice: “ Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? Only the Shadow knows.” David, thank you for all you have done for our community, for the children, for all the endless hours of volunteering, and for your creative and gifted mind. We will miss you, but only the “Shadows knows.” Until next time, LCCOA, a place where you belong, a place to call home.

— Susan

I regret to inform you that this will be my last Golden Echo piece. Thank you for welcoming me into your homes and hearts. I have had the time of my life creating a fun environment at the Center. There has been a change in direction for Whiteside County Senior Center and I hope this brings even better things for the seniors of Whiteside County. I’ll be on to my next adventure.

The Whiteside County Senior Center Board is pleased to announce that Emily Hammer is our new Executive Director. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to her at 815-622-9230.

See you around, 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.

Paul Coffey

James Pitts

Steve Kasper

Cynthia Brown

Velma Buchanan

Kathy Shriver

LCCOA welcomes members

Evelyn Simmons

Wendy Willet

Linda Brechler

Charlea Cook

Norma Cook

Jason Nelson

Diane Nelson

Larry Schuchard

Janet Glover Schuchard

Wayne Wilson

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Contact Information

Sharon Wilson

Mary Seske

Josie Whaley

Granville and Debra Jones

Robert and Carol Linkowski

Oliver and Neola Mumford

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

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.

Pine Creek Christian Church of Polo

Franklin Grove Living & Rehab

Meadows of Franklin Grove

Oregon Living & Rehab

Tiffany and Vicki from the Meadows

Kathy Clark

The Burton Foundation

Gerald Taylor

Judy Hallquist

Marilyn Steder

Allen, Carolyn Beck, Pam Bell, Betty L Bittner, Sylvia Bittner, Thomas

Boehm, Jennifer Calsyn, Gary Calsyn, Judith Cardwell, Victoria Cardwell, Clyde

Terry Christian

Liberty Court

Sharon Phelps

Sandy Ready Lee County United Way

Amanda Wike

Linda Setchell

Krisi Chrisham

Kathy Ferguson

Lee County Health Department

Nancy Gates

Josie Whaley

Dixon Food Pantry

Larry Piper

Eileen Piper

Teen Turf

Ben Galantine

Johnson CPA

Leydig Center

Susan Johnson

WCSC welcomes members

Celletti, Shirley Celletti, David Clevenger, Mike Ervin, Judith Garien, Suzanne Greene, Arnold Greene, Nancy Greene, Joseph Hamilton, Jane

Hardt, Marianne Heern, Scott Henderson, Annette Kendell, Aimee Little, Sue Love, Mary Matthews, Jack Mock, Beverly Mock, Gene

Thank you to WCSC volunteers and supporters

Real Time

Brandan Lumzy

Lumzy Yoga

Darla Foulker

Good Fellows

Clara Harris NIAAA

Lee County

Rusty Schrader

Morath, Dennis Morath, Vernice Nelmes, Mary Panice, Gloria Shawver, Kenneth Shawver, Barbara SPV LLC, Frontstream Vail, Pat Weidel, Nancy Wilson, Ann

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.

Allure, skilled nursing facility in Sterling

Boehm, Jennifer

Community State Bank

Farmers National Bank

Foster Grandma Santos

Hart, Leroy

Homestead of Morrison

Jacobs, Julie

Johnson, Bobbie

Letcher, Sherry

Mays, Dinah Mays Mays, Jeffrey McCormick, Dick McCormick, Linda

Meller, Marilyn Metcalf, Bill Metzler, Diane Pratt, Jewely Qureski, Nazir Resthave Care & Rehabilition Sanders, Clara

Sanders, Gavon Shipley, Neal Sikkemma, Shelle Surdez, Nancy Sutton, Julie Szewczyk, Dorothy Vandenberghe, Beverly Vistas Health Care

LEE COUNTY Outreach can help with Medicare, caregiver assistance

Lee County Council on Aging offers Outreach assistance in the following areas:

Caregiver Assistance: Respite and GAP (when available) Respite helps provide a break for the caregiver by getting a homemaker into the home when needed, or even placing the recipient in a facility for a short-term stay (usually no longer than 5 days). Services are limited and based on a case-by- case situation. GAP Service is available to assist for a specific need that a caregiver or the recipient cannot afford in partial or full. Services vary and are based on a case by case situation.

Medicare Counseling: Explaining the various parts of Medicare, assisting in the understanding of your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) and True Out of Pocket Expense Reports

(TrOOP), aiding in Medicare appeals and even sorting out your mail, what’s important vs. what’s not when it comes to Medicare. We are Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) certified.

Medicare Part D: Plan comparisons are prepared using individual information. Explanation of plan details and ultimately completing the application process for enrollment into a chosen plan.

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. Out-of county trips can be arranged, subject to availability. Out of county rides: $4.

We don’t accept Medicaid at this time.