SVM_Golden Echo_092822

Welcome aboard the

NARRATED LUNCH CRUISE

ENJOY THE BEST “UP CLOSE” VIEWS OF THE NEW BRIDGE

Oct. 18, 2022

Board the motor coach at 10:15 a.m. at Walmart in Sterling and ride to Moline, Ill. Board the Celebration Belle at 11:30 a.m. and depart at noon. Enjoy a special Cap tain’s Narrated Lunch Cruise on the Mississippi River, featuring a hot lunch buffet prepared fresh right onboard. The excursion will take in some of the historical sights of the Quad City area. We will cruise by the Rock Island Arsenal, located on a 946-acre island, and Lock and Dam 15, with the largest roller dam in the world. Our Captain will tell you about the history and facts of these two sights, plus many more.

$89 for members | $109 for non-members

Sign up today at Whiteside County Senior Center

From the LCCOA Executive Director

By Susan Lawler

Happy Halloween! October is such a fun month. The leaves are changing, the weather feels so refreshing, and to top it off we have Halloween. I have always thought of October as a month you can be someone different — a super hero, doctor, nurse, or even a witch. How fun it is to take on a new persona!! I often think of Walter Mitty; it was an interest ing show, where Walter would dream of being someone else, even for a short window of time. So put on your costume and come on down to LCCOA on Mon day, October 31st. We will have fun, games, best costume prizes, and a treat or two. We may even have a trick — who knows what is in store for you? Only the Shadow knows!

Prom — “Oh What a Night”

LCCOA had another successful Prom,

From the WCSC Director

By Susie Welch

October is one of my favorite months. It’s the last hurrah before winter is upon us. My wonderful childhood mem ories of trick-or-treating in my home town of Albany. I no longer run the streets on Halloween but have a tradi tion of serving my children’s children soup and treats. I always have a hot bowl of soup waiting for them as they would hit my house just before trick-ortreat hours began. If you are like me, you love to see the little ones dressed up for trick-or-treat. In this tradition, I’d like to invite all seniors to the Center to pass out your trick-or-treat candy in the warmth and safety of the Center on October 31. Bring the candy you would normally buy or help us pass out our candy. We will provide you a safe, warm dry spot to pass it out. We will be serv ing chicken noodle soup with cinnamon rolls & applesauce (a free will donation will be taken). You’ll want to come early

with the great DJ Hamilton as our DJ, food from KSB and Culvers, Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center, Meadows of Franklin Grove, and Oregon Rehab sponsoring the event — how could anything be any better? The room looked elegant, with the help of Terry, Aaliyah, Chance and Pam.

We couldn’t ask for more! Thank you all for your support and help. Our seniors had a wonderful time. As Phar nel said: “You put on a great party.” The new King and Queen were crowned — Madylin and Pharnel passed their reign to Jesse Rodriguez and Josie Almassy. Until next year, the royals will reign.

Open Enrollment is Here

As usual, at LCCOA our appoint ments are booking up fast for open enrollment. This is the time of year for all our seniors to renew their Part D plans. Kathy and Amy are available to help you with your 2023 enrollment. This is a short window of time for you to revisit your existing plans, stay or change to a new plan. Please call for your appointment at 815-288-9236.

9-11 Stories

Thank you for sharing your stories with LCCOA. It is not too late to call or send in your memory of that heinous

to enjoy a hearty dinner at 4pm before the fun begins. My hope is this can become a new Center and Community tradition.

We are starting October the right way with a baked half-chicken dinner for only $7 at noon on October 7, fol lowed by the amazing Helen and DuWayne Karaoke Show. You won’t want to miss this afternoon of great food and music. We will be announcing November big events that you will want to be in the know about.

October means open enrollment for Medicare part D. This year, to ensure that we can meet everyone’s needs, we will be sending out forms to be filled out and returned to us prior to setting an appointment. Our hope is that this will reduce the time you have to spend in an appointment and allow us to see more individuals. You will need two packets if you are married and only one packet if you are single. Please call 815-622-9230 to have us mail you a packet, or drop by the Center to pick up your packet(s). Our Outreach coordinator, Teri, will call you to set up an appointment once we receive your packet back. This is a new procedure, so we ask for your patience and understanding as we try to give you the best service possible.

October 11 is our next Parlor Club trip. We had a blast last month — you won’t want to miss out on the fun. If

day in the history of our country. One gentleman called to say: “ I remember it like yesterday. I was waiting by my phone to hear if my best friend for 40 years survived the attack. When I finally received the call that he was alive, but severely injured, I said ‘Thank God,’ and just kept holding onto the phone.”

I personally remember exactly where and what I was doing. I was driving my mother to the hospital as the news came across the radio. All I could think was that we will go to war. I lived through Vietnam, lost so many friends and class mates; but this time it could be my chil dren. My mom turn to me and said we live through World War II, Korea and Vietnam; we will survive — and so we have, but not forgotten.

Smart Phone

Our Smart Phone classes have been such a great success, we are now adding computers. Please call to set up an appointment for computer assistance. We have received volunteers from Shep herd Premier to help assist with the demand. Please call for an appointment at 815-288-9236 — we are here to help.

Travel Club

Our travel group is coming up with

gambling is not your thing, no worries, Pastor Al will be leading Bible study at 10 a.m. that day, and Yoga has added a second day to our schedule at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. This month we will be adding Book Club to our line-up on October 3 at 1 p.m. in the dining room. The Book Club’s first book will be by a Sterling author. You can pick up the book at our receptionist station for $5. Our roundta ble trip discussion had a great time last month; the group decided to meet once a month. The Trip Club will meet the fourth Monday of each month at 10 a.m. in the dining room. Plan to stay for lunch and keep the fun going!

This month we will be hosting three days of classes that seniors have asked for. October 25 we’ll be hosting a special internet/phone safety class from noon to 1 p.m. Whether you are new to computers or not, this is a must-attend class. This fraud prevention class will be put on by Sauk Valley Bank. The other class will help seniors re-enter the workforce, and be taught by BEST Inc. With rising costs, many seniors have had a harder time to make ends meet. We will have other resources available that can help supple ment your income through assistance or a paid volunteer position too! Both of these classes will be available virtually also, if you cannot get to the Center. TRIAD will be hosting a paper shred and educational day at the Center on October

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.

wonderful ideas and trips. So come on down and enjoy the wine and the com pany; we would love to have you. Our next trip is Branson, and it’s filling up fast. We know it will be a wonderful trip to start the holidays; this is just the right place to put a spring in your step and a song in your heart. Marisa is wait ing for you, so don’t disappoint her; she really would like to spend the time with you and get you into the holiday spirit.

A New Face at the Center

We are pleased to announce our new employee, Amy Meyers. Amy comes from a caregiving environment, is SHIP trained, and ready to provide all our seniors with assistance. Amy is a col lege graduate with years of casework, and counseling. We feel so pleased to have her on board, with open enroll ment just around the corner. God sent her to LCCOA just in the nick of time.

Well, my friends, it is time to start thinking of the holidays. Please keep your eyes and ears open. If you know of someone who could use a friendly call, visit or a lunch please let us know. We are here to assist.

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

– Susan

17. Attorney Tim Scordato will be avail able at 10 a.m. to answer questions on Homeowner Scams, POA and legal ques tions, and at 1 p.m. Jennifer Snow will present on Medicare Fraud. The Shred Event is limited to two boxes per house hold, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Our new Volunteer program, Host or Hostess of the Day, is up and running. We still have times available if you would like to volunteer to help out at the Center. The Center is seeing more and more activity. If you have never met a stranger and have a few hours a week to spare, please reach out to us.

We received a generous donation of office chairs by our local Social Security Office last month, which has trans formed the Center. A big thank you to Sullivan’s for donating 26 Lobster din ners to help us raise money for the Cen ter. Due to time and quantity limita tions, we were unable to add it to our calendar of events.

And if you’re not a member yet, please become one now, as we kick off our 2023 membership drive early! Not only do we discount our trips but send out a monthly newsletter that gives you all the new events before they are released to the public. We have great things planned for November already so you do not want to miss out.

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.

Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center and The Meadows of Franklin Grove are helping deliver our lunches to 44 seniors. Thank you, ladies, for visiting our seniors and assisting LCCOA drivers and staff. We do appreciate all you do for LCCOA.

LCCOA phone numbers

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

West Second Street

Need a ride? Give LCCOA a call

LCCOA senior bus transportation is available to take you places you need go — the bank, church, dentist office, doctor office, employment, grocery store, health department, hospital/ medical clinic, kidney dialysis center, public library, restaurants, or summer programs.

LCCOA’s senior bus can also take you from your home to the

Dixon Wal-Mart at 10 a.m., noon and 1:15 p.m., Monday thorugh Friday. The cost is only $1 for rides inside of the city of Dixon for each way. Call 815-288-9236 for more information or to reserve your seat on the Seniors’ Bus!

WCSC phone numbers

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

Dixon,

Main

815-288-9236

815-288-9236

Ballroom 815-288-9236

9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Call 815-6229230

815-625-7433

815-622-9230

and free phones for hard of hear ing/low vision 815-622-9230

Toll-free 888-622-9230

at info@wc-seniorcenter.org

Where there’s a wheel, there’s a way to help our seniors!

A shout out from LCCOA’s staff and drivers ... We love our seniors!

Sep

Marjorie Guenzler

Juana Strom

Janet Butler

Jim Butler

Shirley Wolford Ellen Smith

Greg Smith

Sharon Wilson

Wayne Wilson

LCCOA welcomes members

Deborah Liebzeit Lenore Hartman Sandra Buikema Jessie Cervantes

Glenn Langholf Joyce Langholf Linda Martz Jerry Martz Barbara Wentzel

Be an LCCOA hero today for a brighter tomorrow!

Linda Topp Donald Topp Sharon Woodring Mary Ann Knoll

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com

Eileen Willstead Dan Willstead Kathy Schier Sipple Terry

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.

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.

Theresa Wolf

Annie Grove

Ashlee Albers Culvers

Judy Miller Bruce Angleton Charles Simms

Ron Smith

Tanna Simpson

Lioness Lions Club Lee County United Way Amanda Wike

Dorothy Szewczyk

Mary Kerley

Open Mic Linda Setchell Krisi Chrisham

Kathy Ferguson

Lee County Health Department

Nancy Gates

Josie Whaley Dixon Food Pantry

Larry Piper

Eileen Piper

Jesse Cervantes

Kate Nehring

Tom Cartwright

Franklin Grove Living & Rehab Meadows of Franklin Grove Oregon Living & Rehab Ben Galantine Johnson CPA Leydig Center Crest Foods Co., Inc.

Kerri Villa-Nantz Liberty Village of Rochelle Scott Oesterlin Safe Life Home Health Susan Johnson Real Time Joe Fornero Brandan Lumzy Lumzy Yoga Sami Rodriguez Petersen Health Care

Thank you to WCSC volunteers and supporters

Darla Foulker Good Fellows Clara Harris Teen Turf NIAAA

Terry Christian Lee County Rusty Schrader Lee-Ogle Transportation Greg Gates Lifescape

A special thank you to all the wonderful supporters of LCCOA’s clothing drive who have donated anonymously.

The family of Jessie Ware

To all our Mackinac Island Seniors that continue to sup port LCCOA

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.

Aldi’s Barber, Linda Beacon of Hope Hospice Booker, John Bright, Joe Burns, Karla Campbell, Al Crystal Lakes Parlor Ellie’s Parlor

Heritage Woods Jacoby, Gene Kroger’s

Logan, Sasha Mays, Dinah Mays, Jeffrey McCormick, Linda McCormick, Richard Meyer, LuAnn

Rest Haven Riverbend Food Sammy’s Parlor Saucedo, Elvira Sauk Valley Bank Sauk Valley Food Bank

Sophie’s Schrader, Rusty SCUG

Shipley, Neal Sullivan’s Szewczyk, Dorothy Taylor, Emily The Blvd Tysdal, Kathy Wadsworth, Cindy Whitlock, Jan

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. 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 welcomes members

Thank you to those individuals who have paid their memberships for 2022

Bruins, Bonnie Barker, Nell Crownhart, Eileen

Dettman, Rebecca Dudley, Donald Gibbs, Patricia Harrell, Owen

Harrell, Rena Mickelson, Rita Mickelson, Ronald

Ohda, Donna Pankow, Barbara Pankow, Dennis Russell, Irma

Lee County Council on Aging Board Executive Committee & Officers

Bonnie O’Connell, Chair

Roberta Lemoine, Secretary Darla Foulker, Attorney Ben Gallentine, CPA (Johnson CPA, LLC)

Cindy Gabany Jeff Haub

Ed Pillar Andrea Pratt Sami Rodriguez

Schares, Paula Schuler, Thomas Sippel, Terry

Spangler, Maria Stearns, Butch Steele, Fred Trujillo, Lucy

Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers

Joe Bright – President Michelle Miller – Vice President

Beth Hubbard Gene Jacoby

Sasha Logan — Treasurer Cindy Wadsworth – Secretary

John Booker Al Campbell

Emily Taylor Karla Burn

Have you heard? License plate discounts are available

The Whiteside County Senior Cen ter Outreach Department’s ability to help you apply for the license plate dis counts shouldn’t be the best kept secret in the County.

To be eligible you must have income less than $33,562 for one person, $44,533 for household of two, or $55,500 for a household of three, and be 65 or older before January 1 of the current year, or be totally and permanently disabled before January 1 of the current year.

The State may ask us for the follow ing items:

• U.S. 1040-Federal income tax papers filed this year for you (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

• SSA 1099-Tax document from Social Security reporting your total income for last year (If you are mar ried, your spouse’s as well)

• 1099 R-Tax document from pension, IRA, or annuity showing distributions amounts received last year (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

•1099 INT- Tax document showing interest received last year. Even if it is

Keep yourself safe from scams, fraud

The Whiteside County Senior Center will host a Safety Day on Monday, Oct. 17.

Safety Day is designed to: Protect seniors from Medicare fraud; Detect potential fraud, errors or abuse; and encourage people to Report suspected fraud, errors and abuse.

Two events are scheduled during Safety Day:

10 a.m. — Homeowner scams, POA and legal questions, by Tim Scordato, NIAAA Attorney

rolled back into the investment it is still considered income (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

• 1099 DIV-Tax document showing dividends received last year. Even if it is rolled back into the investment it is still considered income (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

• Driver’s license or State ID card (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

• Social Security card (If you are married, your spouse’s as well)

• Proof of disability — Class 2 dis ability ID for Secretary of State or let ter from Social Security worded that you are receiving disability benefits, with last year’s or this year’s date. (If you are married and your spouse is also disabled, we will need proof that your spouse is on disability as well).

• Death certificate of deceased spouse

If you don’t have a 1040 because you do not file taxes, no worries – we have a simple form you can sign saying you do not file taxes.

LEE COUNTY OUTREACH

Get ready for Open Enrollment

We are on a countdown; October starts 2023 Open Enrollment.

Please call to set your appoint ment for Medicare Part D. Our phone number is 815-288-9236.

LCCOA Outreach Department is here to assist you with Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicaid, ITAC, license plate sticker discount, and more.

Lee County Council on Aging will be part of the Sauk Valley Senior Showcase on Tuesday, October 4,

2022, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Northland Mall in Sterling. Please come and visit with us. We will have staff pres ent to provide you with information on ITAC phones; phones for the hearing impaired, senior trips, infor mation on Medicare Part D, and information on all our programs. Don’t miss this opportunity. There will be exhibitors from assisted liv ing, nursing homes, senior housing, and much more.

See you on October 4!

Help is available for license plate stickers

The Benefit Access Application, offered through the Illinois Depart ment on Aging, is an online-only application. Upon approval, this application provides a discounted license plate sticker.

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

Single: $33,562

Couple: $44,533

3-person household: $55,500

Contact LCCOA at 815-288-9236 (ask for Outreach) to complete your application.

1 p.m. — Medicare Fraud, by Jennifer Snow, NIAAA

Also that day, people are can drop off documents that may contain potentially sensitive information during a Shred Event. Documents can be dropped off during the drive-up event at the Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St. in Sterling. There is a two-box limit per household.

Safety Day is sponsored by Whiteside County TRIAD, and made possible through a grant from Illinois Senior Medicare Patrol’s AgeOptions

For more information on the Senior Medicare Patrol, call 1-800-699-9043 or go to www.illinoissmp.org.

Stop by WCSC and pull up a chair

Our Center was blessed with new chairs from the Sterling Social Security Office.

Let’s gather ’round the table and talk travel

A drawing will be held Nov. 10, during the Vets Coffee at WCSC, to give away two American flag afghans; a flag blan ket; and red, white and blue hot pot holders and hand warmers to local veterans. To enter a veteran into the drawing, email a. gibbs@wc-se niorcenter.org or mail to WCSC 1207 W. 9th St., Sterling, IL, 61081, with the name and phone number of a vet eran you would like to honor with one of these gifts. For more information, see the Special Events listing on page 11.

Food, fellowship and fun at WCSC

LEFT:

by Edwin Leipus from Morrison

RIGHT:

Winning big

Maria Spangler, hit it big during our stops at Ellie’s, Sammy’s, Crystal Lakes, Sophie’s and The Blvd. parlors!

October Lifescape meals

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

October 3-7

MONDAY: Country meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables, whole grain dinner roll, peaches. TUESDAY : Chicken patty, whole grain wheat bun, peas and carrots, scalloped potatoes, pineap ple. WEDNESDAY : Spaghetti with meat sauce, green beans, cauliflower, garlic bread, apricots. THURSDAY : A) Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes with gravy, winter blend vegetables, wheat bread, cherry crisp B) Ham/chicken noodle. FRIDAY : Cheesy beef taco, whole grain flour tortilla, lettuce\tomato, Spanish rice and beans, fresh fruit, taco sauce.

October 10-14

MONDAY : Chicken Parmesan, pasta with marinara, Sicilian blend vegetables, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears. TUESDAY : Sausage gravy with whole grain biscuit, hash browns, sausage patties, orange

juice. WEDNESDAY : Polish sausage, sauerkraut, potato wedges, baked beans, applesauce, whole grain hot dog bun. THURSDAY : Beefaroni, green beans, corn muffin, apricots. FRIDAY : A) Pepper steak, mashed po tatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, whole grain wheat bread, Mandarin oranges B) Turkey/vegetable

October 17-21

MONDAY : Hamburger patty, whole grain wheat bun, mac & cheese, California blended vegetables, diced peaches. TUESDAY : BBQ chicken breast, au gratin potatoes, seasoned green beans, whole grain dinner roll, fruit cocktail. WEDNESDAY : Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, Brussels sprouts, wheat bread, apricots. THURSDAY : Sweet-and-sour meatballs, fluffy rice, blended vegetables, whole grain dinner roll, diced pears. FRIDAY : A) Tuna noodle casserole, broccoli/carrots, pineapple tidbits, whole grain dinner roll B) Chicken salad/tomato.

October 24-28

MONDAY : Baked chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed peas, whole grain dinner roll, strawberry applesauce. TUESDAY : Meatloaf, cheesy potatoes, root vegetables mix, wheat bread, diced pears. WEDNESDAY : Baked pork chop, baby red po tatoes, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, cherry crisp. THURSDAY : Italian sausage with peppers on a bun, seasoned potatoes wedges, Italian blended veg etables, apricots. FRIDAY : A) Crispy fish sandwich on a whole grain bun with tartar, potato pancakes, peas, diced peaches B) Turkey\minestrone.

October 31

MONDAY: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, whole grain dinner roll, Mandarin oranges.

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

October Golden Meals

Please note: Meals will be served at Whiteside County Senior Center Monday through Thursday. Fridays are home delivery only. For more information about home-delivered meals, call 626-4442.

Oct. 3-7

MONDAY: Baked ham, sweet potatoes, peas, apple sauce, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Goulash, mixed vege tables, pears, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes, green beans, mix fruit, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Hot dog, baked beans, oven fries, cole slaw, bun. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at sites open on Friday.

Oct. 10-14

MONDAY: Closed for Columbus Day. TUESDAY: Roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, mixed vegetables,

pears, wheat bread. WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti, green beans, orange slices, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Baked chicken, au gratin potatoes, beets, applesauce. FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at sites open on Friday.

Oct. 17-21

MONDAY: Apricot chicken, rice, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread. TUESDAY: Beef stew, warm spiced pears, biscuit, Jello. WEDNESDAY: Scalloped potatoes/ ham, peas and carrots, apple, wheat bread. THURSDAY: Easy chicken casserole, parslied potatoes, carrots, apple, wheat bread. FRIDAY: Beef and noodles, green

Whiteside County Public Transportation

Fares: (within county)

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

beans, fruit, wheat bread.

Oct. 24-28

MONDAY: Cheeseburger, tator tots, baby carrots, apri cots, bun. TUESDAY: Chicken Alfredo, Italian vegetables, salad, peaches, wheat bun. WEDNESDAY: Chili, corn bread, coleslaw, orange slices. THURSDAY: BBQ chicken, seasoned potatoes, coleslaw, applesauce, wheat bread.

FRIDAY: Cook’s choice at sites open on Friday

Oct. 31

MONDAY: Baked ham, sweet potatoes, peas, apple sauce, wheat bread.

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Lee County Council on Aging Senior Transportation — 815-288-9236

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

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

Upcoming Trips: LCCOA

LCCOA’s Upcoming Trips for 2022-23

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 like-minded peers and enjoy memora ble 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 loca tion and help along the way with any need that may arise.

Ready to Travel with LCCOA? Call 815-288-9236 and ask for Marisa.

Fall Foliage Cruise

Saturday, October 15

Cost: $105 for members, $130 for non-members

So much to see on this cruise! A 4-hour cruise on the great Mississippi River aboard the Celebration Belle. Departure time will be 8:45 a.m., with an approximate return time of 4:30 p.m. Price includes transportation, driver gratuity, cruise ticket, buffet lunch and restaurant gratuity. SPACE IS LIMITED.

Holiday Trip — The Branson Holiday Show & Christmas Shopping Extravaganza, with Marisa

December 5-9, 2022 — 5 days & 4 nights

Cost: $599 for members; $624 for non-members, per person based on double occupancy

Trip includes motor coach transportation, lodging, admissions, 8 meals, admissions to six fabulous shows, including the “All Hands on Deck” Christmas show, “The Duttons Christmas Show,” “The Presleys Country Jubilee Christmas Show,” and the famous “Miracle of Christmas Show.” You can also do some Christmas shopping every day! Please contact Marisa for details at 815-288-9236.

New Orleans trip, with April & Marisa

February 12-18, 2023 — 7 days and 6 nights

Cost: $715 for members, $740 for non-members — per person, based on double occupancy

Motor coach transportation, lodging, admission fees, and 10 meals are included. We will be traveling to New Orleans the week before Mardi Gras! Come enjoy the sights and sounds of the Big Easy. We will tour the historic French Quarter, make a visit to the National WWII Museum, venture over to the Destre han Plantation, and enjoy a relaxing cruise on a river boat. A highlight is a trip to Mardi Gras World, where many of the floats used in the parade(s) will be and we get to see where Mardi Gras magic is made!Please call 815-288-9236 and ask for April or Marisa for ques tions or to reserve your space.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise, with Marisa

May 4-13, 2023 — 10 days & 9 nights.

Cost: Ranging from $1,985 to $2,548 for members and $2,010 to $2,573 for non-members. A deposit of $350 is required to reserve your berth. Cost includes round-trip airfare from Chicago.

Travel on the Royal Caribbean ship, The Oasis of the Seas. Cost includes transportation to and from Dixon, all meals on the ship and some in CoCoCay, unless you choose to eat at one of the specialty restaurants. Dip your toes in the sand at each of the five Islands: CoCo Cay, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, and Antigua. And, of course there’s shopping everywhere — and don’t forget the Casino Royale on the ship! Note: A passport is required for this trip, as is a negative Covid 19 test prior to departure. Passports must be valid through October 2023. Please contact Marisa for details at: 815-288-9236. Sign up before January 2023 — prices really jump then!

Upcoming Trips: WCSC

Parlor Club

Cost $10 for members, $20 for non-members. Carpooling

Five local Gold Rush Gaming parlors in Sterling & Rock Falls will be exclusively opened for our group. One-hour play time per location. Complimentary continental breakfast at location number 1. Locations 2-4 will have complementary coffee, tea and pop. Location 5 will have complimentary lunch menu, to be announced at sign up. Each location will pro vide a $5 slot play. Random locations will have drawings for prizes.

Celebration Belle — Moline

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Cost: $89 for members, $109 for non-members, per person *Transporta tion, tax and gratuity included.

Welcome aboard the Celebration Belle! Cruise atop the No. 1 attraction in our area: The Mississippi River! The Celebration Belle is a unique experience. Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise, Captain’s narration, and a full hot lunch buffet, including marinated baked chicken breast or chef’s choice, hot pasta with fresh vegetables, potato & vegetable, assorted cold salads, rolls with butter, dessert, coffee and iced tea.

Festival of Lights — Peoria

Friday, December 9, 2022

Board the motor coach at 2:30 p.m. and travel to Fairview Farms Restaurant to enjoy a family style menu of fried chicken, served with tossed salad, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans seasoned with ham, coleslaw, corn fritters rolled in powdered sugar, and rolls with butter. Enjoy an ice cream dessert with a choice of French silk chocolate pie, coconut pie, or lemon meringue pie. Then head to the Peoria Festival of Lights drive-through light display.

Ideas for trips?

We are in the process of creating trips for this fall, winter & 2023. Please let us know how to make your travel bug happy by contacting Angela Gibbs via email a.gibbs@ wc-seniorcenter.org or by telephone at 815622-9230 ext. 302, or attend our Travel Club meeting on Monday, October 24, at 10 a.m.

Movie Tuesday

Tuesday, September 20 at 1 p.m.

The third Tuesday of every month we’ll be having lunch and a movie. Please call 815-288-9236 to reserve your lunch.

Travel Club

Tuesday, September 27 at 1 p.m.

The fourth Tuesday of every month we will meet to share our travels, plan new trips, and enjoy a glass of wine. Please join us for an afternoon of fun and adventure.

Bingo at LCCOA

Friday, October 21, at 9:30 a.m.

The games are free! The prizes are free!! The fun is free!!! Bingo at LCCOA has long been a favorite activity. Origi nally called “beano” when the game first arrived in America in 1929, Bingo has become a weekly fundraising activity in churches all over America. But here at LCCOA, Bingo is free!! In addition to being a lot of fun, Bingo increases men tal flexibility and alertness, exercises hand-eye coordination, and accelerates healing with laughter and socialization. All are welcome — come and enjoy!

Halloween Event

Monday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m.

LCCOA always loves Halloween. Please join us for fun, games, and prizes for the best costume.

Rummikub at LCCOA

Mondays at 1 p.m. Rummikub players are gathering at

Special Events at LCCOA

PLEASE NOTE: PROOF OF VACCINATION IS REQUIRED TO ENTER.

LCCOA on Mondays at 1 p.m. The Euro pean game is becoming an increasingly popular game here. Rummikub was invented by a Romanian in Israel in the 1940s. It soon became Israel’s best-sell ing export game. By 1977, it became a bestselling game in the United States. Rummikub, played by 2 to 4 players with numbered tiles, is similar to European card games, such as Machiavelli and Vatikan. Here at LCCOA, we have several games going at the same time! Feel free to join in on the fun!

Chair Yoga for Seniors

Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

Chair Yoga, a new program for seniors here at LCCOA, is a safe and more comfortable method to get the same benefits as regular yoga. Meet ing every Wednesday at 1 p.m., our yoga leader is trained and certified, and already conducts classes at other locations. Staying seated and off the floor means that even frail seniors or those who aren’t so flexible can safely do the exercises. Yoga can help all older adults to loosen and stretch muscles, reduce stress and improve circulation.

Smart Phone

First Wednesday of the month at 3 p.m.

The basics of using a smart phone: setting it up, texting and e-mailing. Please bring in your phone and LCCOA will assist you. Please call 815-288-9236 to reserve your seat.

Table Crafters at LCCOA

Thursdays at 1 p.m.

Beadwork, knitting, needlepoint, cro cheting, and needlework are all types of table crafts enjoyed by people at the crafters’ table at LCCOA. Crafters gather every Thursday at 1 p.m. and conversa tions and laughter fill the room while they busily produce beautiful and color ful, practical and/or whimsical pieces. Feel free to just join in anytime and enjoy the benefits of crafting: reducing stress, improving hand-eye coordination and building friendships and community. Any ideas on presentations of crafting proj ects? We’d love to hear from you. Please call 815-288-9236.

Euchre at LCCOA

Fridays at 12:30 p.m.

Euchre, also called “poor man’s poker,” is one of the most popular card games in the Midwest United States. Some stories say that Euchre came to America with the Pennsylvania Germans. Other stories say it came over with French soldiers. Farm er’s Hand, Poor Man’s Hand, Bottom Hand, and Grandma’s Hand are some of the many nicknames for a particular “hand” dealt during the game. One thing you can be sure of: Everybody at the table has an opinion as to what just happened! Come for the cards; come back again for the people you meet.

Mexican Train Dominoes

Fridays at 1 p.m.

The game Americans call Mexican

Train is originally a variation on a Chi nese game called Pai Gow, which emerged in China before 960 A.D. Chi nese laborers brought the game with them when they came to Cuba to work in the sugar cane fields. Then they and Cuban laborers brought the game with them when they came to America to help build the railroads. It also became immensely popular with the Mexican laborers, which is how the game got its name. Join the game, and develop your skills at concentration!

Need Help with your Laptop?

If you are struggling with your com puter, or you’re ready to throw it out the window, LCCOA can help. Please call for an appointment and bring your laptop in; we will do our very best to assist you. Please call 815-288-9236.

Line Dancing at LCCOA

We’re still trying to form a new beginners group. Line dancing is a great form of exercise for seniors to improve strength and muscle function, increase balance and flexibility, as well as improve cardiovascular and heart health. Line dancing isn’t just for coun try music anymore! If you can tap your toes in time to music, line dancing might be just the thing for you! Anyone interested in conducting a beginners group, please contact LCCOA at 815288-9236.

Special Events at WCSC

NEW EVENT: Book Club

Monday, October 3 — 1-2 p.m.

Our first book will be “Running with the Demon” by Terry Brooks.  The story takes place in a fictional town named Hopewell, Illinois, but is actually based on the author’s hometown of Sterling, Illi nois, around the Fourth of July in 1997. Books will be available for $5 at the receptionist desk for anyone wanting to join this group. This activity is volunteer lead.

Bible Study

Tuesday, October 4, 11, 18 and 25 — 10 a.m.

Ephesians 4:29: “Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.” Our 7-session bible study, with video on grace by Max Kucado, will be Tuesday, October 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 10 a.m.

Adult Coloring

Wednesday, October 5, 12, 19, 26 — 12:15 p.m.

Come and discover the benefits of adult coloring. Studies have shown that it relaxes your brain and improves brain function, induces meditative state, improves motor skills, improves sleep, improves focus, reduces anxiety and relieves stress. Come and relax with us in our new craft room!

Foot Clinic

Wednesday, October 5 & 12 — 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Fancy Feet is accepting new clients. Please call Deb at 815-213-0324 or Sharon at 815-718-5294 to set up an appointment.

Chicken Dinner & Karaoke

Friday, October 7 — Noon-1 p.m.

All ages welcome. Join us for a delicious home cooked meal of one-half baked chicken dinner and stay for the Karaoke fun with Helen and DuWayne!

SCUG

Saturday, October 8 — 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, followed with a presenta tion on a relevant computer/technology topic. Every one with an interest in computers/technology are invited, refreshments will be available.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Thursday, October 13 — 3 p.m.

Hosted by Morningside of Sterling, WCSC and CGH Health Foundation. You will receive confidential support and conversation, discussing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. On-site respite care will be provided for your loved one during the meeting.

Veterans Coffee

Thursday, October 13 — 9 a.m.

Veterans Coffee will meet the second Thursday of every month, sponsored by Beacon of Hope Hospice. Bring a memory or item from your service time and share your story. Chaplain Michael will lead the group.

Employment Tips for Seniors

Tuesday, October 18 — noon-1 p.m.

BEST Inc. along with TCOC Foster Grandparents Pro gram will host a workshop. With the rising cost of everything, Seniors are finding it harder than ever to make ends meet. If you are considering re-entering the workforce or are looking for an avenue to increase your income, this workshop is a must see!

Price Is Right

Wednesday, October 19 — 10 a.m.

Come and play the guessing game and win a prize!

Travel Club

Monday, October 24 — 10-11 a.m

If you enjoy traveling, then come down and join our seniors Travel Club. It is a great opportunity to share your trips, learn about other seniors’ travels and dis cuss where you would like to visit in the upcoming months. Enjoy a fresh brewed cup of coffee, making new friends and starting your next adventure. We will be meeting every fourth Monday of the month from 10-11 a.m.. Lunch starts at 11 a.m.; please consider staying.

Internet & Phone Scam Prevention

Tuesday, October 25 — noon-1 p.m.

Sauk Valley Bank will host a workshop to help you safely use the internet, plus give you up-to-date infor mation on how not to be a victim of a scam.

Bingo

Wednesday, October 26 — 12:15 p.m.

Join us for some Bingo fun. Please bring a $1 dona

tion for the Food Pantry (no food items accepted) to play. This event will take place in the Big Room upstairs.

Breakfast Club

Friday, October 28 — 9 a.m.

Come join Yvonne as she leads the way to sample various local restaurants for a good old-fashioned breakfast of your choice. Each individual will be respon sible for their own meal and tip. Call 815-622-9230 to get your name on the list. Rise and shine — let’s have breakfast together!

Veterans Drawing

Thursday, November 10 — 9-10 a.m.

Citizens of Whiteside County, we need your assis tance honoring our veterans on November 10. Thanks to a generous donation by Dorothy Szewczyk, we have two American flag afghans; a flag blanket; and red, white and blue hot pot holders and hand warmers to give away to Whiteside County veterans. Please email us at a.gibbs@wc-seniorcenter.org or mail to WCSC 1207 W. 9th St., Sterling, IL, 61081 with the name and phone number of a veteran you would like to honor with one of these gifts. The drawing will be on Novem ber 10 at our Vets Coffee at 9 a.m. You need not be present to win, but we would love to see you!

Computer/Technology Assistance

Monday thru Thursday from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

SCUG is back in the building! Neal from Sauk Com puter Users Group will be available to assist you with any computer/device questions you might have If you would like a specific appointment one on one time, please call the center and speak with Neal.

Volunteer opportunities

Looking for something to do this winter? AARP Foun dation Tax-Aide offers free tax-filling help to those who need it most. We are looking for compassionate and friendly people to join our volunteer team this upcom ing tax season. We’ll provide the training and support to help you learn new skills, and you’ll get a great feeling from helping someone else. Help is needed from greet ing the tax payer to preparing the tax return. You do not need to be an AARP member. If you are interested or would like more information, please call Karen Berg at 815-625-5314.

Weekly activities at WCSC

Other groups or activities you would like to see at the Center/ Call 815-622-9230 and we will be happy to coordinate that activity based on availability.

Mondays

Walk-In Day — 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Pinochle — 12:30 p.m.

Learn to Quilt — 1-3 p.m.

Tuesdays

Bible Study — 10 a.m.

Yoga — 10 a.m.

Euchre — 12:30 p.m.

Pool Tables — 1-4 p.m.

Knitting Club — Noon-4 p.m.

Wednesdays

Pool Tables — 9 a.m.-noon

Canasta — 9 a.m.-noon

Adult Coloring — 12:15 p.m.

Pinochle — 12:30 p.m. -4 p.m.

Thursdays

Yoga — 10 a.m.

Hand & Foot — 12:30

Food Pantry — 1-3 p.m.

Pool Tables — 1-4 p.m.

Fridays

Line Dancing — 10 a.m.-noon

Pinochle — 12:30 -4 p.m.

Mexican Train Dominoes — 12:30 p.m.

Sep

Oh, what a prom night!

The Post House Ballroom, and Lee County Council on Aging hosted another wonderful Senior Prom. The night was filled with laughter, fun, door prizes, great music and enjoyable food. Our seniors, staff, drivers and our community joined together for a night of making new friends and re-visiting with old friends and acquaintances. Many of our quests came alone and told us they had such a nice evening. They had been concerned they would feel left out, but instead they left with memories that will last a lifetime. DJ Hamilton provided an evening of dancing, and kept the house rocking. See you next year!

The new King and Queen, Jesse Rodriguez and Josie Almassy.