SVM-SS2

Holiday closings Lee County Council on Aging: Jan. 2 and 16 Lifescape Community Services: Jan. 2

Lee-Ogle Transportation System: Jan. 2 and 16 Whiteside County Senior Center and Whiteside

Public Transportation: Jan. 2 and 16 Meals at Whiteside Senior Center: Jan. 2 and 16

Golden Echo A publication of Sauk Valley Media in cooperation with Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center – United Way agencies Volume 9

• January 2017 •

Edition 3

Thank You for supporting the WCSC through your membership and annual donations! Your support is greatly appreciated by the Board, Staff and Volunteers

INSIDE Directors’ Columns ............................................. 2

Medicare Q&A .................................................... 4

Meal Sites ........................................................... 13

Thank Yous...................................................... 5, 7

Membership Dues Paid................................. 7, 10

Transportation Schedules ................................ 14

Post House Ballroom........................................... 3

Weekly, Monthly Activities .............................. 11

Upcoming Special Events ................................. 15

FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL, & DEDICATED TO YOUR SATISFACTION! OVER 250 VEHICLES IN STOCK!!!

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OFFICE FRED HOFMANN

OFFICE MGR. ANGELA PERNA

INTERNET MGR. JOHN WATTS

MANAGER MIKE PARENT

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SALES DAN VEREIDE

SALES MIKE SCANLAN

SALES NICK MELSNESS

DETAIL MGR. KEITH PORT

DETAIL SPECIALIST JOSH VAN HORN

815-625-9600 1701 E. 4th St., Sterling

DETAIL SPECIALIST 815-288-9600 MIKE MORGAN 849 North Galena Ave, Dixon

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From the LCCOA Executive Director

overview of what, if any, benefits may be possible for them. We help them understand and navigate the sometimes overwhelming application processes and applications. If they find it hard to see us in Dixon, we do regular outreach to Amboy, Ashton, Franklin Grove, Paw Paw and Sublette each month. And all of this is done at no charge to the client. And now, in 2017, we are happy to announce

that we will be open two evenings a month until 7 p.m. The second and fourth Wednesdays of every month our Outreach counselors will be available here at the Post House Community Center. (Appointments appreciated.) If you cannot make it during our regular business hours, this could be a great alternative. To accomplish this we rely on a combination of state, federal and local grants along with donations and memberships. If you feel what we are doing is important to you, your family, or the residents of Lee County, I, once again, ask that you consider membership in LCCOA. As we wind down our annual appeal, many of you have spoken generously with mem-

berships and additional donations. Thank you! On a similar topic, part of our efforts to raise money, as well as provide a fun, social environment for all involves our large events such as our annual Chili Soup Supper (March 8 this year), Prom (April 1) and Luau (Aug. 16). We would welcome either individuals or businesses in the area who would like to sponsor any of these events. In return for covering expenses, your business would receive recognition as a strong supporter of Lee County seniors. For information, you can call me at 288-9236. Thanks. As we close this year, we recently held our last big function of the year – Santa’s Workshop. What a joy to see so many children enjoying shopping for

their relatives and having a visit with Santa, as well as having a great breakfast. With 2017 right around the corner, we promise you another year of old favorites and new activities to enjoy. Did you know that we hold a Euchre tournament every month? Or that we now have a Bridge group that meets Monday nights and Friday afternoons? A full schedule of events can be found by reading through each month’s Golden Echo. And, if you haven’t yet, you should “Like” our Facebook page (Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging) where you can find all the latest, including events added after the Echo is published. Happy New Year everyone. See you next year! – Geoff

participation in our programs. We decided to move from two trips per year to three and from one bus to two or more. Thank you to everyone who made our trips such a great success. In 2017, we are offering four trips. Our daily activities have grown with card playing seeing the greatest increase in participation. Put participating in the WCSC programs in your top three resolutions for 2017!

We will researching the needs and wants of the seniors in Whiteside County so we can find new activities, programs and special events during 2017. Let us know if you have something new you would like us to try. We are looking into ways to get more information to all seniors in the area including those who don’t get the newspaper. Our website, Facebook page, email newsletters and robo-calls are several options we are exploring. The website www.wcseniorcenter.org contains additional information on our programs, meal menu, senior services and special events at the WCSC. We are working on a quarterly email newsletter which will include information on our pro-

grams, activities, and services. If you would like to be added to the email list just send an email to info@wc-seniorcenter. org with your contact information. In the event of severe weather this winter, please listen to your local radio and TV stations, and other local media sources for announcement regarding the closure of the WCSC and WCPT. We try to make a determination as early in the morning as possible. We will update the message on our automated answering system and our Facebook page as soon as we make the final decision. Remember, WCSC is a warming site between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.! Thank those of you who renewed your member-

ship or sent a donation on Giving Tuesday! You still have time to renew or start a membership at the WCSC. Please keep the WCSC in mind when you are making your end of the year donations! We continue to deal with the budget situation in Springfield, and with your extra support we made it through 2016, but 2017 looks like another challenging year! Check out our website or Facebook page to obtain a membership or make your annual donation. We want to say a special thank you to those who chose to make a Giving Tuesday donation or annual donation to support the WCSC in 2016! Have a safe and Happy New Year! Until next month. – Doug

By Geoff Vanderlin Merry, Merry, Christmas! I hope you are recovering from a wonderful Christmas weekend and looking forward to New Year’s Day and a wonderful 2017. This time of year always brings about a time of reflecting – on what’s past and what’s yet to come. This year, let’s allow some of that reflection to think of some of our senior neighbors and friends who may be less well off. You know, I talk a lot about how LCCOA and the Post House Community Center are here for everyone in the

community, and that’s true now more than ever. But the core of our reason for existence is to help the aged and disabled who need assistance connecting themselves with programs where they can continue to lead dignified and independent lives. Our Outreach counsellors spend many hours each year training on new rules and regulations in order to provide the highest levels of service to our clients. When clients come to LCCOA they are treated with respect and given an

From the WCSC Executive Director By Doug Vandersee Happy New Year from the Whiteside County Senior Center Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers! 2016 has flown by so quickly we haven’t had time to catch our breath. Thank you to everyone who took part in our programs this past year or used the WCSC for senior services, lunch, or just spent time visiting with new and old friends! We are happy that you joined us and hope you will continue your relationship with the WCSC! HAPPY NEW YEAR! With 2017 arriving

soon, it is a great time to reflect back on our goals for 2016 and determine which ones we accomplished and which ones we will need to address further in 2017. Many times, we set so many “resolutions” that we get bogged down in trying to make too many changes and we don’t actually make any of the changes we desire. In 2016, we made a great effort to get all of the events and programs into MySeniorCenter so we could do an even better job of tracking

Golden Echo published monthly by Sauk Valley Media, 3200 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, IL 61081, in cooperation with the Lee County Council on Aging and Whiteside County Senior Center. Golden Echo disclaims any liability for any advertisements published herein and in no way endorses or guarantees these ads. Press releases of interest to seniors will be accepted at 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021; or 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081. Deadline for submission is the 15th of each month. Golden Echo does not discriminate in admission to programs or treatment or employment in programs or activities in compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act; the U.S. Civil Rights Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; the Age Discrimination Act; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; and the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you have a right to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Aging. For information, call 800-252-8966 (Voice & TDD), or contact the director of Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021 or telephone 815-288-9236; or Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, IL 61081 or 815-622-9230. The senior centers do not require duration of residency or citizenship as a condition of participation in any services or programs funded by the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Residency or citizenship may be a requirement for other programs that the senior centers may provide assistance with in application or accessing of same. Services are made available, in part, with funds provided under Title III-B of the Older American Act, and the Illinois General Revenue Funds, through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. We are a United Way-funded agency.

January 2017 • Page 2

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Have trouble hearing on the cell phone? Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC) has added a program to help those with cellular service that are having trouble hearing on the phone. The program still provides free amplified telephones and captioning telephones to Illinois residents that are hard of hearing. Applicants must be certified as hard of hearing by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or audiologist; live in Illinois; and have a service that remits to the program. Lee County Council on Aging (LCCOA) and Whiteside County Senior Center (WCSC) are selection centers for ITAC. Walk-ins are welcomed from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday at the WCSC. Potential applicants can call the WCSC at 815-6229230 or LCCOA at 815288-9236 in advanced to set up an appointment to see about qualifying for this wonderful program. Cell phones must be Bluetooth capable. Applicants that wish to apply for this program should bring in the cell phone.

Please bring a phone bill with all the pages for landline service or cellular service (prepaid cell users that don’t receive a phone bill must bring the cell phone) and proof of address (driver’s license, state ID, or a bill with the applicant’s name and address on it).

Recycle cell phones, iPods, and iPads The Whiteside County Senior Center and the Lee County Council on Aging collects used cell phones, iPods and iPads to be recycled. If anyone has any these items lying around and want to dispose of them drop them off at the WCSC, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, or the LCCOA 100 W. Second St., Dixon.

Hello from The Emporium Thrift Center in Sterling Well the holidays have finally wound down. It’s always nice to visit with all the families and friends during the season. All the gift exchanges, caroling, observing the birth of Christ. It’s also nice to unwind, sit and reflect on all the good things in life. There are some folks that do not get to enjoy any of those things. We need to remember them, and share with

them at any opportunity. Now is the time to think about what to do with all our time in the coming cold months. We have lots of ideas at The Emporium Thrift Center. You need to stop in and see for yourself. First of all pick out a good book (some new some not so new), build a small fire in the fireplace, make popcorn and hot chocolate, sit and watch the

BY CATHY REGLIN Lee County Council on Aging

Ah, January! Two holidays! Only one event! And nothing to say this month! Except Happy New Year to all of you! Enough of the exclamation points already. Next month is

different, and I’ll have more to say then. Stay warm. If you need a beautiful place to have a gettogether, look us up on Facebook. Go to posthouseballroom.com for information about the building, prices

Sauk Valley Media

and to see our Event Calendar. Visit posthouseballroom.shutterfly.com for pictures of events held here. Then, you can email me at posthouseballroom@gmail.com or call me at 815-2880892, and we’ll talk.

January events 2 – Holiday – offices closed 12 – Illinois Department of Transportation 16 – Holiday – offices closed 23 – LCCOA Board meeting

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

General Offices Outreach and free phones for hearing/sight impaired 815-288-9236 Toll-free 855-407-9236

LCCOA can also be reached via e-mail at lccoa@comcast.net Or via the Internet at lccoa.com or posthouseballroom.com Check us out on Facebook – Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging

115 W. 3rd St., Sterling 815-535-0368 Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays Like us on Facebook Check out the website from the Whiteside County Senior Center. Also check out Channel 5. for more information.

Two holidays make for a quiet month

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

Post House Ballroom 815-288-0892

The Emporium Thrift Center

AT POST HOUSE BALLROOM

LCCOA phone numbers

Transportation 815-288-2117 888-239-9228

rest of the world go by. We have tons of puzzles, games, art projects, craft patterns, fabric for quilts, movies, records, crochet patterns, the list goes on and on. We also have clothing for most of the family at very affordable prices. Watch for sales. The point is to stop and shop at The Emporium Thrift Center for just about anything you might be looking for.

Transportation 815-625-7433 Information 815-622-9230

Outreach and free phones for hearing/sight impaired 815-622-9230 Toll-free 888-622-9230

Or via email at info@wc-seniorcenter.org Or via the Internet at wc-seniorcenter.org The Emporium Thrift Store, 15 W. Third St., Sterling – 815-535-0368

Golden Echo

January 2017 • Page 3

AT WCSC

MEDICARE Q&A

Notes from the Kitchen

Deciding to Delay Medicare Part B Enrollment this year? Dear Marci, I’m turning 65 soon and I’m still working. Do I need to enroll in Medicare Part B when I’m first eligible, or can I delay it? – Riley (Albany, Oregon) Dear Riley, Deciding to delay Part B enrollment depends on a number of factors. Some people might want to delay Medicare Part B enrollment because they already have coverage from another source, and they do not want to pay the Part B premium on top of what they already pay for their other coverage. Before delaying Part B enrollment, you should consider the following questions. 1. Will I have a Part B Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to sign up for Medicare later? You must have access to a Part B SEP to be able to enroll in Part B outside of your Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your 65th birthday month) or the General Enrollment Period (Jan. 1 through March 31 each year; coverage becomes effective July 1). If you have a Part B SEP, then you will not have a late enrollment penalty for

delaying Part B enrollment. The Part B SEP begins when you are first eligible for Medicare and are covered by insurance as a result of your, your spouse’s, or in some circumstances, your family member’s current work. You have this SEP while you are covered by insurance from current work, and it extends for eight months after the coverage or work ends, whichever is sooner. If you use this SEP to enroll, then you will not have a late enrollment penalty for delaying Part B enrollment. You cannot use this SEP if you delay Medicare enrollment while covered by retiree insurance from a former employer, COBRA, or retiree FEHB. If you delay Medicare Part B enrollment while covered by any of those types of insurance, you will have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (Jan. 1 through March 31 each year; coverage becomes effective July 1) to enroll in Medicare and you might have a late enrollment penalty. 2. Will my other coverage pay primary or secondary to Medicare?If your other health insurance cover-

age will pay secondary to Medicare once you are eligible, then it is usually not advisable to delay Medicare Part B enrollment. Secondary insurance pays only after the Primary insurer has paid, and an insurance that is secondary to Medicare may refuse to pay for care and may take back any primary payments that it has made. Your insurance from current employment may pay primary to Medicare. Whether this type of insurance will pay primary or not depends on how you are eligible for Medicare and how many people work for the company that provides the insurance. Insurance from your or your spouse’s current employment pays primary to Medicare if you are eligible for Medicare because

you are 65 or older and the company has 20 or more employees. Insurance from your or your spouse’s current employment pays secondary to Medicare if you are eligible for Medicare because you are 65 or older and the company has fewer than 20 employees. Before making a decision about Medicare Part B, you should always contact Social Security by dialing 800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office. When you contact Social Security, use this list of questions to gather the correct information. – Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center, the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare.

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Lee County Council on Aging Board Executive Committee and Officers Doug Farster, Chair Joe Rudolphi, Treasurer Ann Barlow Cindy Gabany Jeff Kuhn

January 2017 • Page 4

San Juana Escobar, Head Cook

Sterling Hearing Aid Center Inc.

303 E. Main St. 857-2611

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Whiteside County Senior Center Board Members and Officers

Helen Kay Miller, Vice Chair Fred Nesbit, Secretary

Dr. Thomas Lawless Diane Blaine Roberta Lemoine

your name; we’d prefer that you don’t. Look for this sometime soon. There has been a halt in putting up pictures at this time due to training and reorganizing. I will begin finishing pictures by the end of January. Again, we could use black used 8-by-10 or bigger picture frames, so we have enough for all your beautiful faces. Join us in the dining room for: Elvis Day, Bird Day, National Pie Day, and National Peanut Butter Day. Happy New Year to all, and God Bless you all.

603 Freeport Rd., Sterling, IL

Funeral and Burial Prearrangement and Prefinancing Available 204 S. Ottowa Ave 288-2241

The year 2017 will be a fresh new opportunity to be positive in all things, even when it’s so cold, you turn into a walking icicle. I detest winter, but this year I will choose to see all the positive aspects of it. Call it a new beginning. This month, we will be trying a couple new items on our menu. Your feedback is important to us. We will be providing a comment box so that you can help us be the best we can be for all of you. Let us know if the food was good, suggestions for meals, if someone was kind or unkind, and it will completely be confidential. You don’t have to write

Teresa Brunick Nancy Varga Donna Newman

Sheila Martinez, President Wilbur Mennecke, Treasurer Janice Bell Bob Czuprynski Robbin Blackert

Golden Echo

Kelly Wilhelmi, Vice President Michele Miller, Secretary

John Espinoza Al Campbell Emily Dykstra

Janet Mennecke Lori Cortez Karla Burn

Sauk Valley Media

Thank you to LCCOA volunteers Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and non-monetary donations. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations. Lee County Council on Aging Teresa Brunick Kathy Berry Jan Russell Sandy Crane Dixon Good Fellows Jeanette Hart Joan Janssen Sue Stach Susan Reed Kay Miller Cindy Gabany Lynsey Kerley Patty Ballard William Weed Jane Freres Barry and Pamela Bacon Virginia Martin Sharon Tribley Jeff and Jeanne Kuhn Aleta McMillin Jacob and Delores Scott Keith and Charlene Huff Evelyn Bonnell Joe and Ida Franklin Ruth Gerdes Annie Grove Lela Kraber Sally McCoy Sandra Ready Lotilla Paap Walter Fassler Shirley Selgestad Robert Wright

Tom Wright Donald and Dianne Pauser Joyce Gibson Mary Ann Kreps Kathleen Berry Mike & Teresa Brunick Jim Eichen Holly Eichen Deb McPhail Andrea Murray Ruth Mammen Cece Stover Jeff Kuhn Ester Hicks Mary Lou Feczko Wanda McBride Theresa Wolf KSB Hospital Charles and Nancy Dyche Robert and Margaret Matthew Tim and Jeanie Sullivan Melinda Ucci Janet Reiley Mildred Hodapp Delores A. Volk Roger and Merrilee Theisinger Carl Gann Joseph Morrissey Richard Appelquist Stan and Bev Weber Sandra L. Johnson Judith Spangler Richard Sarver Patricia Harney Rock River Ready Mix Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center Gary and Linda Koser Sterling Federal Bank Clifton Lawson Allen LLP

Todd Etheridge Willett, Hofmann & Assoc., Inc. Roger Kelly Edwin and Pat Yingling Joyce Warrenfeltz Eileen Skibinski Richard L. and Jean McGrain Jerry & Peggy Carlson Donna Wellman Richard and Betty Cover Duane Paulsen Eileen Aibee David Lutyens John Schoaf Jessie Ware John and Nancy Varga Frances J. Griffith Mary Ellen Hamburg Larry and Ann Prindaville Shirley J. Rees Richard and Illa Nicklaus Barbara Wood Linda Duffy Nancy Grygiel Barb Reynolds Dolly Kinn Kay Caley Ruth Pitts Sue Schrock Josephina Rodriquez Cathy Reglin Dick and Julie McGrail Geoff Vanderlin Alan Hopp Nolan Halla Anton Halla Emma Hammonds Kortny Marsh Cameron Crone Sue Schrock David Binkley

Cathy Seagren Ryver Rice Roberta Lemoine Jennifer Lemoine Wanda McBride Bobbie Jo Jones Aurora Jones Ariealle Jones Rylan Ramsdell Fred Nesbit Janice Russell Shirley Long Anna Miller Jenny Koch Alex Riley Genesis Riley Cheryl Smith Becky Brenner David Dively Lori Haines Patty Ballard Jeff Kuhn Helen Glessner Edward Clayton Don Schrock Patsy Commons What It Takes Repairs Marilyn Bodmer Leo and Linda Patterson Doris Wohrley Dean and Sandra Considine William and Phyllis Doan Charles Daneh Charles and Dianne Rodenbaugh Robin Jefford Thelma Ruddy Rodney and Georgiana Bollman Bill and Jo Mills Mark and Kristi Reiss Ida Johnson

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Individual high scores for the month of December: Game Series Dennis Breene............................ 152 ........................ 425 Norma Burmeister..................... 155......................... 430 Joe Coffey.................................... 153......................... 386 Chico Contreras......................... 186......................... 471 Charlotte Dierdorff.................... 165......................... 407 Dan Dunphy............................... 204......................... 535 Ron Erickson.............................. 223......................... 567 Dick Janssen............................... 221......................... 522 Bob Joyce.................................... 211......................... 588 Darrell Kitsmiller........................ 190......................... 525 Bruce Kleinmaier....................... 172......................... 461 Pat Kleinmaier............................ 200......................... 481 Jan Kuepker................................ 177......................... 478 Ron Odenthal............................. 200......................... 514 Larry Reed................................... 187......................... 503 Linda Richards........................... 176......................... 494 Rich Senn.................................... 191......................... 525 Jim Shurman.............................. 185......................... 510 Therma Smith............................ 152......................... 397 Alan Stephens............................. 155......................... 436 Terri Stephens............................ 118......................... 279 Dave Stewart.............................. 160......................... 439 Glenn Stroh................................ 112......................... 244 Ed Webb...................................... 147......................... 365 Shirley Webb.............................. 121......................... 282 Jay Wolfe..................................... 164......................... 463 The Senior Bowlers hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and wish each of year a Happy New Year. Our regular bowlers include three who had never bowled before and three of our fellows that very often hit the “200 plus” games. Besides enjoying your own activities, it is equally enjoyable to watch the progress of the beginners and the skill of the seasoned bowler. Come any Tuesday or Thursday morning and join us.

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January 2017 • Page 5

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January 2017 • Page 6

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Thank you to WCSC volunteers Thank you to all our volunteers who donated their time, energy and services and those who gave monetary and nonmonetary donations. We also thank everyone who gave anonymous donations. Sauk Valley Food Bank Krogers County Market Sterling Pavilion Rock Falls Rehab CGH Home Nursing

Gaffey Home Nursing Sauk Valley Senior Living and Rehab United Way Prophet Manor, Prophetstown Erie Pubic Library Odell Public Library, Morrison Robert Fulton Community Center, Fulton Walmart Distribution Oregon Living and Rehab Center Regency Care of Sterling Aperian Care of Amboy

WCSC welcomes members We would like to thank the people who recently paid their WCSC membership dues: Wendy Allen Ronald Bucher William and Carol Chapman James and Linda Cook Doris Cox Florence Cunningham Jane Faber Donna Long Dorothea Long Linda Martin Cynthia McCoy Robert Morden

Clark and Beverly Nailor Kathy Needham Patricia Peshia Evelyn Reynolds Juanita Rose Dnita Russell Marjorie Sibley Maria Spangler Darla Stigall Nancy Surdez Pablo Vazquaz Walter and Jenny Wagner Helen Warren John Wessels Lester and Ann Wilson Vinus and Gloria Williams Jr. Betty Ziegler

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Outreach in Whiteside County Getting help in Whiteside County The Whiteside County Senior Center (WCSC) Aging and Disabled resource staff helps with a variety of programs for older adults and persons with disabilities. Walk-in day is on Mondays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the WCSC. Appointments need scheduled in advance for Medicare counseling. Residents in Morrison, Erie, Prophetstown, or Fulton must call in advanced to set up an appointment at a meeting site in their area. Best practice would be to come about 5 minutes early before appointment times. It is also best to ask in advance, what to bring on walk in day or for appointments. Please call and cancel the appointment if needed as soon as possible. The Aging and

Disabled Resource center does not charge fees, however they appreciate donations. Please call 815-622-9230 extension 194.

Medicare Advantage Disenrollment period The Medicare Advantage Disenrollment period starts on Jan. 1. During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan and go back to Original Medicare. If the Medicare Advantage plan has prescription coverage beneficiaries will be able to enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D plan. If beneficiaries missed the Dec. 7 Annual Enrollment period to get Medicare Part D for prescrip-

tions or to switch Medicare Advantage plans, unfortunately, they will have to wait for the next annual enrollment period which is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 (unless they qualify for a special election). Extra Help or the Low Income Subsidy for Medicare Part D does qualify for a special election to change plans outside of the annual enrollment period.

even if there is no need to file income taxes. If an envelope comes in the mail and say important tax information on the outside please open it and keep it. We might ask for these forms to help apply for several programs. Happy New Year and we look forward to providing the best service we can for our community!

Keep Tax forms

Medicare Choices class

January is the time when tax forms such as W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and SSA-1099 forms are sent out to in the mail. These forms report income from 2016. These forms are important and it is strongly suggested to keep these forms for at least 3 years

Our next class on Medicare Choices will be at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 13. This class is designed for those that are becoming new to Medicare and those who want to learn the options available. Please call ahead and sign up.

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January 2017 • Page 7

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Thank you to helpers at Santa’s Workshop I would like to thank all the volunteers, all the different agencies and individuals who gave us donations that helped make the Santa’s workshop a success again this year. I am sorry if we missed anyone or misspelled your name. The kids had a great time. Everyone enjoyed the Christmas music, face painting and the delicious breakfast. I want to also thank all the volunteers who helped set up, work the day of, and help clean up the aftermath of the workshop. Dorothy Szewczyk Paige Blackert J.J. Campbell Daisy Sosa Phil Szewczyk Rosie Reyes Chris McNinch Sydney Segretto Mary Nasluchacz Larry Ebersole Betsy Zweifel Shari Letcher Dee Robinso Sue Nestor Emily Garrick Dorothea Long Adrianne Rice Angelina Lopez Maggie Newman Ada Friesen Ray Lehman Cheryl Johnson Janet Menneche Norma Lauts Barb Bruder Sam Johnson Estamae Williams Jackie Virnich Janet Lehman Larisic Miller Charlene Smith Hazel Rikje Dale Smith Jo Ellen Vandersee Betty Snitchler Brenda Shore Nancy Surdez Doug Vandersee Mikayla Watkins Sarah Shaw

January 2017 • Page 8

One of Santa’s elves, Lori Cortez, helps a child shop in Santa’s Workshop. Juanita Escobar Kristyn Ehnle Kelly Marcum Kristin Moreno Shirley Schwarz Chase Pierce Jenny Brown Alyse Bryant Roberta Ramirez Frankie Alfano Jill Mammosser Ariana Diaz Aleriana Belmonte Martha Martens Clifford Allen Cadence Williamson Mildred Make Cheyenne Smith

Rome Garcia Tristan Moreno Jaymelee Miller Kierstyn Summers Roxanna Schultz Raul Garcia Barb Peugh Morgan Hammond Kathy Sheats Alaina Schreiner Kiara Rice Cassie Johnson Fritz Haln Kylie Fischback Deborah Cox Allison Brunner Barb McCalister Colin Flynn

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John Velasquez Jade Graff Bud Jordan Nichole Lilly Lindsay Johnson Kathryn Cover Judy O’Malley Zita Rosas Karen O’Malley Johanna Cravatta Laurie Ordean Jackie Haley Jo-Carroll Energy Sandi Harper Shirley Blasdell Janet Boiler Mary Flint Alice Ports McCormick’s Margaret Ehersoll Karen Snowden Bill Grant Terry and Glenda Maclennan Adrian Rit

SBM Business Fitzgerald Pharmacy Jean Portner Stella Sagal Marianne Paris Mary Black Laurie Gingrich Marilyn Scott Dorothy Johnson Wahl Clipper Jan Valdez Dollar Store in Sterling Joyce Clevenger Nyla Winchell George Estrada Monica Larakers Chandra Mc Donnell Sharon Steinhagen Laura Kivisto Mr. Weems Rosemary Hindley Jerry Baker Audra Clark Johnson Oil Company Deb Hermes

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www.fnbamboy.com SM-ST13108-1227

Marylyn Gleim Unity Hospice DBA Exner’s Sportsman’s Paradise Sullivan’s Food Judy Irvine Family Chef Restaurant S & B Signs Shirley Wal Old Hotel Antique Virginia Pepper Margaret Ebersole Steve Saylo Susie Cedro S.L.M. International Inc. Rotary Club Red Apple in Sterling Jim and Irene Capp Maple Pancake House Adrian & Sandea Liming Rock Falls Country Club Susan Little Anna Yowny Paul Hocking Betty Snitchler

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

SM-ST12099-1227

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

AT LCCOA

GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION AT LCCOA RIGHT: Vanessa Reglin was the winner of the child competition in the second PHCC / LCCOA Gingerbread House Competition. Awesome job, Vanessa.

Overeaters Anonymous meets every Tuesday at PHCC Did you know that Overeaters Anonymous (OA) meets every Tuesday from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Post House Community Center? Overeaters Anonymous is a fellowship of individuals who through shared experience, strength and hope, are recovering from compulsive overeating. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. OA does not weigh members, sign them up, monitor their eating habits or keep tabs on them in any way. The important thing is to keep coming back and work the program with others.Â

BELOW: The Lowry Family – Travis, Jamie and Tyler – were the winners of the Family category.

Start thinking about Spring Prom at Post House Ballroom

TOP: Judges awarded Crest Foods in the Group category. ABOVE: Christmas in Paradise won the People’s Choice Award. Great job Cathy Reglin, Tina Taylor and Joann Sheridan.

Come Snowbird at Res have 408 Maple Avenue, Morrison IL

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CALL A OUR S BOUT NOWB IRD RATES TODAY ! 815.7 72.40 21

Winter is right around the corner... Why not snowbird with us? Relax and take a vacation without the hassle of travel!

Sauk Valley Media

The Post House Community Center/Lee County Council on Aging’s (LCCOA) sixth annual Spring Prom is Saturday, April 1 in the Post House Ballroom, and we are looking for nominations for the Royal Court. One woman will be crowned queen, and one man will be crowned king. This special event is a fundraiser for LCCOA. Nomination forms will be in next month’s Golden Echo. Start thinking now about who you think should be LCCOA’s spring prom King and Queen and get ready to nominate them. You can stop in the Center now for a form or wait until next month’s Golden Echo. If you have any questions regarding this upcoming event, please contact the Post House Community Center at 815-288-9236.Â

The health care needs of today’s seniors are changing. And, we are changing too! For more details call Dennis Grobe, Administrator, at: (815) 379-2131 HeritageOfCare.com/walnut

 �

Golden Echo

January 2017 • Page 9

LCCOA welcomes new members Doris Adams Eileen Albee Bruce Anderson Patricia Anderson Richard Appelquist Margaret Apple Dennis Ayers Barry Bacon Pamela Bacon Barbara Baker Charles Ballard Carolyn Bally Jack Bally Beverly Bartmess John Bartmess Betty Bay Jack Baylor Penelope Beardin Carol Beaston Maria Beck Joseph Becker Diane Blaine Marilyn Bodmer Jean Bogott Lyle Bogott Evelyn Bonnell Margaret Bonnell Colleen Bonnell Raymond Bonnell Duane Bothe Helen Bothe Robert Brandenburg Bill Brierton Reva Brierton Mike Brunick Teresa Brunick Arthur Burgess Lois Burgess Sheryl Bushman Adelaide Butler Evelyn Carey William Carey Jerry Carlson Peggy Carlson Joan Christoffersen Mike Ciaccio Edward Clayton Nancy Cleary Barbara Coglianese Patsy Commons Dean Considine Sandra Considine Ralph Contreras Joseph Contreras Ruth Contreras Betty Cover Richard Cover Julia Cover Andrew Cox Ruth Cox Sandra Crain

January 2017 • Page 10

Larry Crawford Maggie Crawford Gary Daws Juanita Day Earl Delhotal Margaret Dempsey Ed Detweiler Sue Detweiler Shirley Devine George Disch David Diveley Carl Dixon Jacqueline Dixon Phyllis Doan William Doan Gene Donoho Rosie Donoho Mary Drew Jacqueline Drought Sharon Dunphy Glenn Dunseth Janice Dunseth Beverley Duryea Charles Dyche Nancy Dyche Merle Ebersole Elverta Eller Corazon Ellorando Lois Erickson Jane Faber Doug Farster Julie Farster Walter Fassler Mary Jane Fenwick Francis Fogle Jean Fogle Patricia Forgue Lois Fox Robert Fox Ida Franklin Joe Franklin Jane Freres Patty Frey Carl Friday Judith Friday Carl Gann June Gascoigne Phyllis Gates Ann Gerdes Ruth M. Gerdes Joyce U. Gibson Arlene Glaser Helen Glessner Frances Griffith Mary Hackbarth Judith Hambley Robert Hambley Mary Ellen Hamburg Patricia Harney Mary Heck Marlene Heckman

Get your raffle ticket Want to help support Lee County Council on Aging and have the chance to win a chunk of change? Then buy some 50-50 raffle tickets. Money raised will help support a variety of Senior Services in Lee County. We are selling raffle tickets up until the drawing April at our annual Spring Prom. You may purchase tickets from LCCOA staff or board members, or stop in the center at 100 W. Second St. in Dixon. Tickets are 1 for $1 or 6 for $5. Barbara Higgs Darlene Hinkle Mildred Hodapp Curtis Holland John Holthaus Mary Holthaus Doug Hoyle Charlene Huff Keith Huff Elizabeth Huffstutler Edward Jacobsen Martha Johannsen Sandra Johnson Sandra Jones Rose Mary Kellen Joan Kelly Roger Kelly Rosemary Keough Dorothy Kessel Joan B. Kessel W.C. Kessel Verna E. Knigge Mary Ann Knoll Meredith Knudsen Gary Koser Linda Koser Lela Kraber June Kremnitzer Mary Ann Kreps Jeanne Kuhn Jeff Kuhn Carolyn Lahman Paul Lahman Barbara Lawless Donald Lebre Verdeen Lebre John Leffelman Mary Leffelman Larry Leffelman Rose Leffelman Lorraine LeRette Jerrell Long Marilyn Long Hiram D. Ludwig David Lutyens LaVina Marschang Carolyn Marshall William Marshall

Virginia Martin Margaret Matthew Robert Matthew Sally McCoy Carol Anne McCrystal Julie McGrail Richard McGrail Jean McGrain Leo McGrain Kathleen McLaughlin Aleta McMillin Beverly McMillion Dean McMillion Faye Merriman Carol Miller Doris Miller Kay Miller Joyce M. Montavon Richard C. Montavon Carol Moon Robert Moon Harriet Moore William Moore Joseph Morrissey Edward Murphy Sharon Murphy Lisa Nelson Donna Newman Illa Nicklaus Richard Nicklaus Nell Nooney Marybelle Novak Edmund O’Rourke Eileen O’Rourke Garry Ortgiesen Katie Ortgiesen Claude Ortgiesen Mary Ortgiesen Charles Oster Donna Oster Diana Owens Lotilla Paap John Partington June Partington Margie M. Pasley Linda Patterson Leo Patterson Duane Paulsen

Golden Echo

Maureen Pawchuk Mykola Pawchuk Eric Peterson Kathy Peterson Ann Prindaville Larry Prindaville Eileen Ramsdell Irene Ramsdell Sandra Ready Larry Reed Louise Reed Norma Jean Reed Susan Reed Shirley J. Rees Ramona Reglin Janet Reiley Ruth Reinhold Shirley Rogene Reuter Warren Reuter James Rhodes Dorene M. Rooney Janice Russell Loretta Samuel LaFay Santos Richard Sarver Diane Schoaf John Schoaf Don Schrock Susan Schrock August Schulte Marilyn Schulte Barbara Schwarz Sharon Schwarz Dolores Scott Jacob Scott Carl Scroggins Cathy Seagren Shirley M. Selgestad Helen L. Sheridan Joann B. Sheridan Robert Sheridan Theresa Sheridan William Sheridan Frances Shiaras Marilyn Shippert Shirley Sivits William Sivits Eileen Skibinskie John Sloter Evelyn M. Smith Hilda Smith Jack R. Smith Lois Smith Wayne E. Smith Wendell T. Snell Dick Snyder Helen Snyder Judith E. Spangler Patricia Spratt Mary Ann Stouffer Paul D. Stouffer

Darrell Stratton Ken Strock Nancy Strock Lucy Strub Rick Strub Betty Stumpenhorst Jeanie Sullivan Tim Sullivan Patricia Sword Merrilee Theisinger Roger Theisinger Jane Thomas Eleanor Thompson Sharon U. Thompson Robert Tolley Gayle Topping Eldon Travis Sharon Tribley Melinda Ucci Geoff Vanderlin Roberta Vanderlin John Varga Nancy Varga Delores Volk Bill Walls Delite Walls Doris Walters Jessie Ware Joyce Warrenfeltz Helen Weaver Beverly Weber Stanley Weber William Weed Kurt Weippert Marlene Weippert Donna Wellman Donald Wendt Robert Wentling Lisa Werstine Whatever It Takes Repair, Inc. Sylvia Williams Doris Wohrley Raymond Wolf Theresa Wolf June Wolzen Stan Wolzen Robert Wright, Jr. Tom Wright William Yarbrough Edwin Yingling Pat Yingling Carol Youker David Youker Emily Yurgil James Yurgil Marylou Zimmerly Charlotte Zuend Sauk Valley Media

Activities and Meetings Weekly Lee County Council on Aging Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 9 a.m.: Exercise class 10 a.m.: Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 6 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Pinochle

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 9 a.m.: Golden Kiwanis 10-11 a.m.: Line dancing 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Pinochle

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 9 a.m.: Exercise class 10 a.m.: Dance exercise class 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 1 p.m.: Crocheting and crafting 6 p.m.: Overeaters Anonymous

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Open pool table, open cards, open Wii games 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Computer lab 11:30 a.m.: LifeScape Lunch served (Reservations) 12:30 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge

Whiteside County Senior Center Mondays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.: Kings on the Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Pinochle 12:30 p.m.: Crochet/Knitting Club 12:30 p.m.: Friendly Mexican Train Dominoes, $5 to play, prizes, and bring a snack

Tuesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.: Kings on the Corner cards 10 a.m.-Noon: Commodities, must meet income guidelines 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Euchre, $2 to play, bring a snack. 12:30 p.m.: Scrabble

Wednesdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.: Kings on the Corner cards 10 a.m.: Canasta 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Pinochle 1 p.m.: Bingo, check monthly with who

Thursdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.: Kings on the Corner cards 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Cards – “Hand and Foot” game, $3 1 p.m.: Euchre, - $3 to play, bring a snack.

Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: playing pool, cards, Wii (call ahead), socializing, computer lab 9 a.m.: Kings on the Corner cards 10 a.m.: Intermediate Line Dancing – check schedule for where it is 10:45 a.m.: Beginning Line Dancing 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Mexican Train Dominoes $5 to play, prizes, and bring a snack. 12:30 p.m.: Pinochle

Monthly Lee County Council on Aging Jan. 5 2:30-3:30 p.m.: Representative at 10-11 a.m.: Representative at Paw Franklin Grove Library for Outreach Paw Community Center for Outreach services services Jan. 11 Jan. 9 5:30 p.m.: Wellness Recovery Pre1-2 p.m.: Representative at Ashton sentation Library for Outreach services

Jan. 13 9:30 a.m.: Bingo sponsored by Lee County Council on Aging Jan. 18 10-11 a.m.: Representative at Amboy Community Center for Outreach services

11:15-11:45 a.m.: Representative at Sublette O.L.P.H. Hall for Outreach services Jan. 22 12:30 p.m.: Euchre Tournament

Jan. 23 10-11 a.m.: Representative at Countryside Manor for Outreach services Jan. 27 9:30 a.m.: Bingo sponsored by Lee County Council on Aging 6:30 p.m.: Open Mic Night

Whiteside County Senior Center Jan. 4 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Blood pressure check by WCSC 11:25 a.m.: Celebrating January Birthdays 1 p.m.: Bingo, Prizes by Aperian Care of Amboy, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Jan. 11 11 a.m.-Noon: Blood Pressure check by Gaffey Home Nursing 1 p.m.: Bingo – Prizes by Sterling Pavilion, snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play) Jan. 14 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, also election of officers for 2017, followed with a presentation at 2:30 p.m. on “What to Do When Your Computer is Running Slow, Part 1” by Terry MacLennan. Everyone with an interest in computers/technol-

ogy is invited, refreshments will be available.

snacks by WCSC (Donate a can of food or $1 to play)

Jan. 25 Jan. 18 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Blood Pressure 10:30 a.m.: Price is Right check by Sterling Pavilion 11 a.m.-Noon: Blood Pressure Check by Sauk Valley Living and Rehab 1 p.m.: Bingo – Prizes by Regency Care of Sterling, snacks by WCSC 1 p.m.: Bingo, sponsored by (Donate a can of food or $1 to play) Sauk Valley Living and Rehab,

Robert Fulton Community Center Come in anytime to play pool, cards, board games or corn bag toss. We have a large-screen TV, pianos, books, and puzzles to loan out, four sewing machines, two personal computers and four Macs are also available. Visit us on our website, www.cityoffulton.us, and look under the “community and government” heading!

Jan. 9: American Legion Meeting, 7 p.m. Jan. 10: American Red Cross blood drive, 1-6 p.m. Jan. 18: Foot Clinic, 8 a.m. – Call Sharon at 815-718-5294

for an appointment Jan. 19: Whiteside County Senior Center Community Outreach – Call for an appointment

Jan. 24: American Red Cross blood drive, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 25: Early Out “Igloo Fun” with third- to fifth-graders, 1-3:30 p.m.

If you are inteerested in joining us for the above monthly activities, contact Whiteside County Senior Center at 815-622-9230 or 888-622-9230; or Lee County Council on Aging at 815-288-9236 or 855-407-9236.

Sauk Valley Media

Golden Echo

January 2017 • Page 11

Upcoming Trips Washington D.C. Trip

Mexican Riviera Cruise

March 30-April 4, 2017 – 6 days and 5 nights Cost: $597 members and $647 nonmembers

Sept. 30, 2017 – 7 nights Cost: Start at $1900; $600 deposit due Feb. 1

Insurance: $45. Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required to book trip Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stop-on guides. Features a guided tour of Washington D.C., you will see the White House, The U.S. Capitol, the National Archives, Embassy Row, Georgetown, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial, Arlington National cemetery and much more. Signup is open. Hopefully, there will be cherry blossoms to see. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

We will fly to San Diego and board Holland America’s Oosterdam. We will visit Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta then sail back to San Diego and fly home. Trip includes meals on ship, airport transportation, transfers, and round trip flight. Prices start at $1900 per person based on double occupancy. A deposit of $600 is due at signing Feb 1. Call Glenda at 815-622-9230 for details.

New Orleans Trip

Insurance: $59. Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required to book trip Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stopon guides. Sights to see: a full day to visit Biltmore Estate, Antler Village and Winery. Guided Tour of Asheville, St Lawrence Basilica, drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the famous Folk Art Center. On the way home visit the Kentucky Artisan Center in Berea, Kentucky. So you can explore Kentucky’s crafts, history, and shop. Signup begins Dec. 1. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip. So far 2018 will bring: Canada and Mackinac Island.

April 29-May 7, 2017 – 9 days and 8 nights Cost: $829 members and $879 nonmembers

Insurance: $69. Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required to book trip Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stop-on guides. Sights to see and things to enjoy! Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Guided Tour of New Orleans to learn about past and present of what makes this unique city a treasure. Visit the National World War II Museum, Guided Tour of a Louisiana Plantation, Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River, Gambling at Harrah’s Casino, and Dining at New Orleans Restaurant. Enjoy some shopping, music on the French Quarter or see the sights. On the way home enjoy a stop at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, Mississippi. National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. Signup is open. Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

Niagara Falls and Toronto Canada Trip June 25-July 1, 2017 – 7 days and 6 nights Cost: $669 members and $719 nonmembers

Insurance: $59. Can put all on one check; $75 deposit required to book trip Price is for double occupancy and includes gratuity for bus drivers and stopon guides. Sights to see on this fabulous trip. Guided tour of Niagara Falls and Toronto, Ontario, visit the Welland Shipping Canal, beautiful Queen Victoria Park, Visit Toronto’s majestic castle estate – Casa Loma. Enjoy a boat ride on a “Hornblower Niagara Cruise” which takes you on sail near the base of the Horseshoe Falls and enjoy an awe- inspiring view of the mighty Niagara. Before leaving enjoy your time at Fallsview Casino and Erie Maritime Museum. Signup is open. Don’t miss out on this one, a chance to see Niagara Falls up close! Contact Betty at WCSC about this trip. Come get a flyer about this trip.

Biltmore Estate & Asheville, North Carolina October 15-20, 2017 – 6 days and 5 nights Cost: $605 members and $655 nonmembers

Little Mermaid at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora Saturday, Jan. 14 Cost: $50 members, $60 nonmembers

Depart from Rock Falls Community Center at 1 p.m., and from Dixon Walmart at 1:30 p.m. The blockbuster Disney movie comes to life in this awe-inspiring Paramount production that is perfect for the young and the young at heart. Ariel lives 20,000 leagues under the sea with her royal family that includes her father, King Triton. Despite the breathtaking beauty of her aqua surroundings, the young mermaid only dreams of what lies above. During one of her top-side expeditions with her loyal companions – Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the seagull – the turbulent waters cause some precious cargo, Prince Eric, to be tossed into sea. Ariel swims to his rescue and gets the Prince to safety. When he awakens in the sand, he has no recollection of how he got ashore. Determined to risk it all for her chance at true happiness, Ariel makes a deal with Ursula the sea witch. She uses her black magic to transform the love-struck princess into a human. But Ariel has only 3 days to get her true love to kiss her, and as part of the deal, while on land, Ariel will not have the ability to make a sound. If she fails at her quest, her soul and her beautiful voice become the property of Ursula. Fun for the whole family! Bring your children or your grandchildren for a wonderful experience. Tickets for our last Paramount show sold out and you don’t want to miss this one. Make reservations today! Payment for this trip is to be made at Post House Community Center.

Post House Community Center to stay open late monthly Can’t make it to the Center during regular business hours? Perhaps you need to bring your parent or other loved one in to see if we can help. Or maybe you just prefer not

January 2017 • Page 12

taking off time from work or other obligations to come in during our normal business hours. If so, we will be staying open twice a month until 7 p.m. to accommodate you.

That’s right. Beginning in January the Post House Community Center Outreach department will have hours until 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of

every month. This service will begin Jan. 11 and 25. Because of the limited evening hours, it will be advisable to call ahead for an appointment if you wish to see Outreach dur-

Golden Echo

ing these hours. However, as time permits, walkin appointments will be accepted. The Center’s main switchboard will also be open during these

extended hours and our public areas will also be open. Call the Post House Community Center at 815-288-9236 for more information. Sauk Valley Media

Meals for January Serving at Lee County Council on Aging Jan. 2-6 Monday: Closes for New Year’s; Tuesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, dinner roll with butter, fruit cocktail; Wednesday: Italian sausage with peppers on bun, gator tots, Italian blend veggies, diced peaches; Thursday: Baked ziti with meat sauce, cauliflower, carrots, apricots, breadstick; Friday: A) Crispy fish sandwich on wheat bun, potato pancakes, peas, pineapple tidbits; B) Turkey, minestrone

Jan. 9-13 Monday: Meatball sub, peas and carrots, seasoned potato wedges, mandarin oranges; Tuesday: Sweet and sour chicken, fluffy rice, stir-fry veggies, dinner roll, apricots; Wednesday: Baked pork chop, baby red potatoes, broccoli, tossed salad with dressing, dinner roll, apple crisp; Thursday: Baked ham, sweet potato, green beans, dinner roll with butter, fruit cocktail; Friday: A) Beef chili mac, corn muffin, streamed cauliflower, corn, jello with fruit; B) Tuna salad, chicken and rice

Jan. 16-20 Monday: Sloppy Joe, wheat bun, gator tots, peas and carrots, peaches; Tuesday: Pepper steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, wheat bread (2), chilled pineapple; Wednesday: Rosemary herb chicken, brown rice, broccoli, dinner roll, applesauce Thursday: A) Cheeseburger, wheat bun, seasoned potato wedges, baked beans, jello with fruit; B) Ham, vegetable; Friday: Mostaccioli with meat sauce, Brussels sprouts, Scandinavian blend veggies, garlic bread, apricots

Jan. 23-27 Monday: Chicken strips, mashed potatoes with gravy, peas, dinner roll, mandarin oranges, BBQ sauce; Tuesday: Baked ziti with meat sauce, Italian blend veggies, garlic bread, hot applesauce; Wednesday: A) Liver and onions, mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, dinner roll, peach cobbler; B) Salisbury steak; Thursday: Pizza burger with bun, seasoned potato wedges, peas, apricots; Friday: Cheese omelette, turkey sausage, hash brown potatoes, blueberry muffin, fruit juice

Jan. 30-31 Monday: BBQ chicken breast, wheat bun, cheesy potatoes, Capri blend veggies, pineapple tidbits; Tuesday: A) Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes with gravy, carrots, wheat bread (2), fruit cocktail; B) Ham, chicken noodle

Serving at Whiteside County Senior Center Jan. 2-6 Monday: Closed for New Year’s holiday; Tuesday: Chili cheese burger, tator tots, salad and dessert; Wednesday: Pork roast, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable, salad and dessert; Thursday: Ravioli, garlic bread, salad and dessert; Friday: Salmon patties, creamed peas, salad and dessert

Jan. 9-13 Monday: Chicken tacos, Rice, refried beans and dessert; Tuesday: BBQ pulled pork sandwich, potato soup, salad and dessert; Wednesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole salad, and dessert; Thursday: Cream of chicken, biscuits, carrots, salad and dessert; Friday: Beef nachos with choice of toppings; salad and dessert

Jan. 16-20 Monday: Closed for Martin Luther King Day; Tuesday: Pork chops with white country gravy over mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad and dessert; Wednesday: Oven-fried chicken, baked potato, California blend, salad and dessert; Thursday: Beef tator tot casserole with cream of mushroom soup and green beans, salad and dessert; Friday: Chicken BLT sandwich, chips, salad and dessert

Jan. 23-27 Monday: Chicken Parmesan spaghetti, garlic bread, salad and dessert; Tuesday: Ham and sweet potatoes, scalloped corn, salad and dessert; Wednesday: Pork roll stuffed with apple aressing, vegetable, salad and dessert; Thursday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetable, salad and dessert; Friday: Beef enchiladas, rice, refried beans, salad and dessert

Jan. 30-31 Monday: Beer-battered cod or fish alternative, potatoes, vegetable, salad and dessert; Tuesday: Chicken breast, rice medley, salad, and dessert

Serving at Golden Meals in Whiteside County Jan. 2-6 Monday: Closed for New Year’s holiday; Tuesday: Pork fritter, au gratin potatoes, green beans, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Wednesday: Spaghetti, mixed vegetables, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Roast beef, mashed potatoes, carrots, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Chicken salad sandwich, coleslaw, fruit, milk

Jan. 9-13 Monday: BBQ chicken, potatoes, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Tuesday: Stuffed green peppers, rice, mixed vegetables, fruit, bread and margarine; Wednesday: Honey baked ham, sweet potatoes, baked beans, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Baked cod, scalloped potatoes, broccoli, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Beef stew, biscuit, applesauce, milk

Jan. 16-20 Monday: Closed for Martin Luther King Day; Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, seasoned rice, carrots, fruit, bun and milk; Wednesday: Baked turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Beef and noodles, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Tuna sandwich on bun, potato salad, baked beans, fruit

Jan. 23-27 Monday: Chili, applesauce, cornbread, margarine and milk; Tuesday: Ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Wednesday: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, carrots, peaches, bread, margarine and milk; Thursday: Easy chicken casserole, cheesy potatoes, broccoli, fruit, bread, margarine and milk; Friday: Chili dog, potato salad, fruit, bun and milk

Jan. 30-31 Monday: Sloppy Joes, potato wedges, fruit, bun and milk; Tuesday: Chicken Alfredo, peas, fruit, bread, margarine and milk

Meals for Robert Fulton Community Center and Transit Facility in Fulton Jan. 4: Catered in by Good Samaritan Jan. 6: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, glazed carrots, roll with butter, and dessert

Volunteers to provide free tax return services AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will be providing free income tax return preparation services during 2017 beginning in February

Sauk Valley Media

Jan. 11: BBQ beef on bun, baked beans, dessert Jan. 18: Catered in by Eagle Point Jan. 13: Roast beef, mashed potatoes with Jan. 20: Scalloped potato and Ham, mixed gravy, roll, green beans, and dessert veggie, roll, and dessert

at the sites listed: • Whiteside County Senior Center in Sterling on Mondays, call 815-622-9230 for an appointment • Sterling YWCA in Sterling on Thursdays, call 815-625-0333 for an appointment

• LCCOA in Dixon on Mondays and Thursdays. Stop in for appointment. Appointments will not be made over the phone. Please bring all the information: • Photo IDs for you and your spouse (if applicable)

Golden Echo

Jan. 25: Chili with crackers, corn bread, dessert Jan. 27: Beef tips over noodles, veggie, salad and dessert

• Social Security cards for you, your spouse (if applicable) and all your dependents • Last year’s tax return • All your 2016 Tax Documents • Any Affordable Care Act or Health Care statements received

• Any 2016 year-end Brokerage Statements • Bank routing and account number (these can found on your blank checks) if you wish to have direct deposit/debit of any refund/balance due January 2017 • Page 13

Transportation WCPT would like to say ‘Thank You!’ Legislative Assistance We would like to thank all of our riders that took the time to write what our services mean to them. Our director was able to share those messages with our local legislators to inform them on what our services mean to our community. We sincerely appreciate your help!

Adopt A Rider Although you will be reading this in January, we are writing this in the middle of December. So, at this time, we do not have a total amount for our Adopt A Rider program, but we have received numerous donations. We would like to say thank you to everyone that has donated thus far. Our program assist individuals who might not be able to afford our fares. The

funds help children get to school, hardworking parents get to work, residents at the homeless shelter and so much more! We are thankful for the response we have received from our community, because without you, our program wouldn’t be as successful as it is. We would like to say a special thank you to our friends at Franklin School that hosted a hat day to help raise funds for our program!

Winter Weather Reminders Closures: In the event of poor weather conditions, WCPT will not provide transit services. Our number one priority is the safety of our drivers and riders. In the event that services must be terminated we will post the closure information on our Facebook page, change our telephone

LOTS Employee Angie Oester Staying Warm and hope you are all too! Happy Holidays from Angie!”

greeting to inform you, and will contact local TV stations. Scheduling a ride: Generally, when our temperatures decrease outside our demand for services increase. This means that we occasionally meet our capacity. Due to that, we might be full a day or 2 in advance. We encourage our riders to call us as soon as they know that they have a need for our services. If we are unfortunately full at the day and time that you would like to ride with us, please call the morning of to see if we have had any cancelations. If you do have a ride scheduled and are unable to keep your scheduled ride, please call our offices and cancel your ride so someone else may take your spot. We hope everyone had a very merry holiday season! Thank you for riding WCPT! We look forward to a wonderful new year.

Lee-Ogle Transportation System

Whiteside County Public Transportation Fares:

Fares:

(within county)

(within zip code)

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

Ages 5 and under (must be accompanied by an adult)............................ $1 one way

People age 6 to 59 years ............................................................................. $2 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)

Seniors or individuals with a disability...................................................... $1 one way (unless qualified under Medicaid or other program)

Out-of-county trips can be arranged, subject to availability......... 25 cents per mile

Out-of-town trips can be arranged, subject to availability............ 35 cents per mile

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

Hours: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday

855-625-7433 or 815-625-7433

888-239-9228 or 815-288-2117

January 2017 • Page 14

Golden Echo

Sauk Valley Media

Upcoming Special Events Medicare Information Class at WCSC

Beginning Line Dancing at Morrison Community Center

Friday, Jan. 13 – 1:30 p.m.

Every Wednesday in January – 10 a.m.

Anyone wanting to learn line dancing come to Morrison for these classes – started Nov. 9. Great fun!

Beginning Stretch and Move Exercise Class at Whiteside County Senior Center

The basic information that we provide will help our community members that are new to Medicare and those who want more information, make a more informed decision when it comes to their options with Medicare. Our Outreach Department staff are trained Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) volunteer counselors. SHIP is a free counseling service provided by the Illinois Department of Aging. Please call to sign up in advanced!

Every Thursday Morning – 10:30 a.m. – starts Jan. 5

Price Is Right at WCSC

​Foot Clinic at WCSC

Wednesday, Jan. 4 – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Come play Price is Right game and guess the price of an item and take that item home. Peg Johnson from Beacon of Hope Hospice. Stay for a home cooked meal of Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable, salad, dessert and drink for only $5.

National Trivia Day at WCSC

Genesis from Sterling Pavilion with Are You Smarter Than a Fifth-Grader? at WCSC

Come join us in an exercise class. We will be sitting, stretching and moving to exercise. Try us out! Peg from Beacon of Hope will be the teacher.

Foot care will be available for all senior citizens 60 or older. For appointment, call Fancy Feet at 815-213-0324. Cost $25.

Wednesday, Jan. 4 – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Come try your hand at basic trivia and stay for lunch of roast pork, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetable. salad and dessert. Prizes awarded for trivia.

Euchre Tournament at WCSC Sunday, Jan. 8 – 1:05 p.m.

Sign-in is 12:45 p.m. Cost is $5 per entry and 25 cents a set, with a 100 percent payback. There will also be a 50-50 drawing.

Winter Safety at WCSC

Wednesday, Jan. 18 – 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 19 – 10:45 a.m.

Come see if you are smarter than a fifth-grader trivia. Prizes awarded to the person with the most points for each round. Will play 8 rounds. Refreshments provided by WCSC.

Euchre Tournament at LCCOA

Sunday, Jan. 22 – 12:30 p.m. registration, 1 p.m. start

$5 entry, 25 cents a set – 100 percent payback

Party Manners at WCSC

Wednesday, Jan. 11 – 11 a.m.

Come and learn about safety for the elderly during the winter months. Sterling Police department will come and give you tips on how to be safe while dealing with Mother Nature’s grouchy season. Giveaways.

Wellness Recovery presentation at LCCOA Wednesday, Jan. 11 – 5:30 p.m.

Lee County Council on Aging welcomes Dr. Steven Carlson as he presents on Wellness Recovery. He also will discuss the causes and treatments of Neuropathy; a common side effect of cancer treatment. Please RSVP to: ahughes@hohrrv.com or call 815-288-4673.

Wednesday, Jan. 25 – 11 a.m.

Sandra Crouse will be here to teach us how to use our manners at a party. A few simple tips could turn a dull evening into a memorable one. Let’s have some fun and learn some manners. Giveaways.

Open Mic Night at LCCOA

Friday, Jan. 27 – 6:30 p.m. doors open, 7 p.m. first act on stage

Come showcase your talent or come and enjoy the entertainment every fourth Friday. Singers, dancers, poets, comedians, guitarist, acoustic instruments, anybody is welcome!

Outreach in Lee County Starting this month we welcome a new year, welcome to 2017! A new year means new program renewals and we want to remind you all how important it is to Keep All of your 2016 Tax Documents! Even if you don’t file taxes, please keep all your tax documents as this is the only way to apply for some of our programs as we need proof and verification.

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Keep all of your documents together in a safe place, and as a reminder, if you are filing taxes, please still keep all original documents as well, as sometimes we need the documents as well as your taxes. We want to remind all of you who are receiving Extra Help to make sure that you keep up on any paperwork that the Social Security Administration

sends you. We also want to remind you that if you did not review your Part D plan during Open Enrollment and are now finding that your medication is not covered, or that it is much higher in price, to please give us a call and we will work with you to make sure you are still being covered at the best prices. Lastly, we will be continuing with applications

for the Benefit Access Application (license plate discount). Listed below (taken directly from the Department of Aging’s website) are the requirements for the start of this year as noted by the State. So please be aware of this when making an appointment to complete your application. • Applications submitted on Jan. 1, 2017 through April 18, 2017

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must use 2015 income to file. • Applications submitted on April 19, 2017 or after must use 2016 income to file. • Please be aware that any application that has had no activity for 90 days will be removed from the system and you will be required to file a new application. • Only documents scanned to the application will be accepted.

Documents faxed to the Department on Aging will no longer be accepted. • If your application was “denied” using your 2015 income, you may reapply on-line using your 2016 income on or after April 19, 2017. Any questions or to schedule an appointment please contact the Outreach Department or your caseworker at 815288-9236. January 2017 • Page 15

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Dec. 29 – Jan. 3

Wednesday, January 25

Tournament of Roses Parade, Pasadena, CA

Ghost, The Musical, Circa ’21, Rock Island

Wednesday, January 11

Wednesday, February 15

Bingo, Sterling Federal Main OfďŹ ce Community Room, Sterling, IL

Mamma Mia!, Fireside Dinner Theatre, Ft. Atkinson, WI

March 3 – 13

Southern Italy and Undiscovered Sicily

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January 2017 • Page 16

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