BEACON - August 2013

August 2013

Vol. 27

Long-Term care T o d ay’ s s e n i o r L ivi n g c o m mun iTi e s ca n b e fun !

Where are your assets going?

Photo by Genevra Shal

page 4

What is PACE? A unique approach to care

Nellie Bechtel residents Marilyn Schafer and Ulrike Metzner relax in their community center.

page 4

Produced by the Beacon’s BeAcoN’s Advertising Team Team

Your Guide to Senior Housing & Long-Term Care

Now on the Web web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

No. 8

Western Colorado’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 32,550 Readers.

Dispel the myths of senior living. See how fun it can be in this month's insert.

What’s Inside Advice and Ideas............................. 9 Classifieds..................................... 44 Crossword..................................... 32 Delta/Montrose County................. 38 Gardening...................................... 20 Garfield County.............................. 42 Health & Wellness.......................... 10 Laughing Matters.......................... 16 Local Lore...................................... 24 Mesa County.................................. 34 Parks & Recreation........................ 22 River City Singles.......................... 35 Travel & Recreation....................... 28

s TEADFAST STEEDs If Takoda could talk, oh, the tales he would tell....

Local Lore Western Colorado has seen its share of disastrous fires.

Do these ring a bell?

Read more on page 24.

White House Pets Did you know that Hoover adopted an opossum? Or Coolidge practically had a zoo? Read more on page 14.

Photo by Melanie Wiseman

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www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

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August 2013

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Editorial 3

Food stamps for Fido?

By Kevin K. VanGundy

Long-term care

F

This month’s special insert on longterm care focuses on the continuum of care that people go through as they age, from buying medical equipment to retrofitting their home, from home health care to moving to an assisted living facility. The options available can be confusing and expensive. We’ll help you sort out how to age gracefully.

rom the “only in America� sector comes a pair of stories about how much Americans love their pets. The first story talks about how you may qualify for pet food stamps, a fairly new program that aids pet owners going through a rough patch with pet food delivered to their door.

The second story goes on to tell us about America’s growing pet obesity problem. Not only are we, the pet owners, eating too much, but we’re also harming our pets with too much food as well. Both stories appear on page 46 of this month’s BEACON.

Do you think pets should receive food stamps?

Please visit our website at www.

BeaconSeniorNews.com and cast your vote on this controversial idea.

If you’d like to comment on either of these stories, write to us at: Mail: BEACON

P.O. Box 3895

Grand Junction, CO 81502 Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Are you a snowbird?

Do you live here and spend your winters somewhere else? Do you know of someone who does? If so, then we’d like to talk to you about an upcoming story we’re working on. Please call Cloie at 243-8829.

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In a recent study of today’s active, affluent and aging adults, a healthy mind and body were cited as the topics of most interest to them. Our September insert will focus on health and wellness information from some of our esteemed local experts. Would you like to contribute an article? We have just a few openings available.

Montrose-Delta BeaconFest 
 Finally, a senior fair that’s fun!

Our third annual BeaconFest at the Montrose Pavilion on Thursday, September 19, will not disappoint.

More vendors, interesting speakers and great entertainers will make this the best senior event of the year. For more information, please email me at Kevin@Pendant Publishing.com. ■“Harold, look natural.� “Gee, Maude, don’t ya think they’ll notice we shouldn’t be driving?�

Most folks in the “lower 48� don’t realize that Alaska is the only state to allow licensed sled dogs to drive on public streets.

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4 Cover Story

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August 2013

Protecting the mustangs "Congress finds and declares that wild free-roaming horses and burros are living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West; that they contribute to the diversity of life forms within the Nation and enrich the lives of the American people."

- The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971

How can I help?

• Feed horses, help take care of land • Update the Facebook page • Attend a workshop • Bring a group for a sanctuary tour • Research funding opportunities • Write grants • Purchase items to donate on the website wish list.

• Make a donation.

• Help promote the wild horse sanctuary.

• Adopt a mustang.

• Call Steadfast Steeds at 241-0939.

The BLM freezemark, which identifies captured wild horses, is a permanent marking on the left side of the animal’s neck. It identifies their year of birth and registration number.

Steadfast Steeds

By Melanie Wiseman

A

s little girls growing up in Kansas and Nebraska, all Tracy Scott and Diana Woods could dream about were horses. Their parents eventually gave in and bought them a pony and a horse, respectively.

Fast forward 45 years and you will find these two women, now 51 and 55, still passionate about horses. At this point in their lives, the dream they are working hard to achieve is preserving America’s living national treasure—the mustang.

Coaching steadfast steeds “Thousands of American mustangs are now in holding facilities, without their freedom, families or a natural way of life,” Scott said. “Our dream is to one day see that all wild horses are set free from the bondage of holding and allowed to realize a new freedom, a new family and a familiar way of life.”

Steadfast Steeds' ambassadors. Photo by Blaine Scott.

Scott and her husband, Blaine, created Steadfast Steeds Mustang Sanctuary on their 42-acre property on Glade Park to help make this dream a reality.

Scott is certified in equine facilitated learning and coaching.

A professional equine artist, Woods is on her way to receiving her certification in October. Woods and Scott connected at Steadfast Steeds’ grand opening in May 2012. They both believe in and teach the human/horse interactions described in the book “Hope…From the Heart of Horses.

How Horses Teach Us About Presence, Strength and Awareness” by Kathy Pike.

“Coaching is about self-awareness

and presence,” Woods said. “Horses are always in the moment, in the now, and don’t think about the past or future. They have an unspoken communication in a herd by giving out energy because they are prey.”

In other words, humans can learn from their equine partners how to clear and silence the mind and how to have a sense of peace.

“We are life coaches with horses as our co-facilitators,” Scott said.

“Horses don’t judge.”

Scott said horses also trust their gut.

“Understanding horse consciousness has allowed me to trust my gut instead of relying on my brain,” she said. “Horses, especially wild horses, sense and respond to thoughts, emotions and intentions that are expressed

Tracy Scott with one of the BLM mustangs. Photo

by Blaine Scott.

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

subconsciously via body language.”

During individual or group sessions in the DiscoveRing, a round pen, participants notice the horse’s response to their directions and discover how to manage fears and their emotions, communicate more effectively, and become more authentic with their actions. A remarkable boost of confidence is obtained from connecting and directing a 1,000-pound animal while standing on the ground.

“It is an extraordinary experience for a prey animal (horse) to allow a predator (human) to sit on its back, in a way that the predator could kill them,” Scott said.

Scheduled tours and a variety of interactive programs are offered to the public, integrating relationship skills, community building and communication skills.

“I don’t expect everyone to understand our techniques, and just because you don’t believe it doesn’t mean it’s not true,” Scott said. “We all have the ability. It’s whether you choose to tap into it or not.”

Woods said the training is similar to that of well-known horse whisperer, Monty Roberts, which focuses on learning to listen.

Untouched horses “Mustangs have always been in my heart,” Scott said. “I just never knew what that meant until we lived closer to where there was a herd.”

Scott was referring to the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse area north of Grand Junction.

The 50,000 mustangs in holding facilities from BLM roundups in the U.S. led Scott to take action. In 2007, Scott and her husband adopted a horse named Izzy from a holding facility at the federal prison in Cañon City, Colorado. Without knowing she was pregnant, they soon had horse number two, Casanova.

Steadfast Steeds now has nine wild horses that act as ambassadors, bringing awareness to the public about the sheer numbers of mustangs

in holding facilities, showcasing mustangs, promoting adoptions and coaching. Four of the adopted mustangs are from the Little Bookcliffs herd. Steadfast Steeds’ three best coaching horses were donated.

Scott’s wild horse master plan is to have eight to 10 ambassadors, eight to 10 horses in training, and 30 wild horses for studying behavior. This ambitious plan would require much more land.

“The Mustang Heritage Foundation shares a similar mission with us, which is to get wild horses out of holding facilities,” Scott said.

The Scotts adopted their most recent mustang from a facility in Oregon as part of the MHF’s upcoming Mustang Million competition, which encourages wild horse adoption and awareness. One thousand wild horses that had never been touched were put up for adoption as part of the competition. If all were adopted at a cost savings of $10,000 per horse for life, the taxpayers could save about $10 million from this one event. The Mustang Million name came from

the fact that since this would save taxpayers millions, $1 million in total prizes will be given out over the course of the event.

The new owners have 120 days to take the wild horses from being untouched to competing in Fort Worth, Texas on September 16-21. Scott and Woods decided to participate.

“I’m excited about the exposure this will bring, that women our age can train a mustang,” Woods said.

The competition will also bring national exposure to Steadfast Steeds for gentling horses.

“We’re not breaking the horse, we’re partnering with it,” Woods said. “They are willing participants.”

Choosing the right mustang

The Scotts and Woods traveled to Burns, Oregon to choose their mustang for the competition.

“We built this ambassador herd based on eye candy or eye appeal,” Scott said. “What does your heart do when you look at them?”

They narrowed their selection down to four horses.

“We could tell they wanted to connect with us and acted like they wanted to know us better,” Woods said.

In the end, it was Takoda (Sioux for “friend to everyone”), a 3-year-old Sabino Pinto gelding, who spoke to their hearts and had more confidence in what his role was going to be.

“Takoda’s gentling will involve a lot of work ‘at liberty,’ which means no halter will be used,” Scott said.

Part of Takoda’s training involved being in the Cheyenne Frontier Days Parade in July and socializing at other Grand Valley events.

Scott and Woods have a lot of work ahead of them involving extensive patience. But it will be all worth it, as they know they are preserving a living national treasure—one mustang at a time.

For more information, visit Diana Woods uses gentling techniques to get close to Takoda. www.steadfaststeeds.org or She quietly stands near him, then reaches out while still looking call 241-0939. ■ ahead and lets the horse decide to turn and come to her.

Cover Story 5

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher ........................ Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher................... Susan Capps Editor........................................ Cloie Sandlin Office Manager ..........................Lisa Moeller Office Assistant........................Genevra Shal Graphic Design.............................. Heidi Graf Production................................ Karen Jones Advertising Sales.........................Sue Bowen Proofreader................................. Jan Weeks Delta-Montrose Bureau Assistant Editor...................Liesl Greathouse Advertising Sales.................... Virginia Carlile Delivery..........................................JR Milner Garfield Bureau Editor/ Advertising Sales..........Cheryl Currier P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 970.24 3.8 829  80 0. 536.7516 fax Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com E-mail: Beacon@ PendantPublishing.com The Beacon is published at the beginning of the month.

Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta, Montrose and Garfield counties.

Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

Display advertising rates are available upon request.

Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication. © Copyright 2013 • All Rights Reserved

Cover Photo Tracy Scott, left, and Diana Woods, right, with Takoda, who they adopted from a holding facility in Burns, Oregon to compete in the Mustang Million competition.

6 Feature Story

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

Hike to see the mustangs

By Cloie Sandlin

D

onna Carmack is an unofficial expert on the wild mustangs of the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Range just north of Grand Junction. She has hiked the area for years, observing the herds and learning about the new generations of wild mustangs.

Her knowledge of the area and the

mustangs is what makes her guided hikes enjoyable and educational. The fact that she documents every moment of the hike with her camera ensures that you don’t miss a moment of scenery or wildlife due to fumbling around with your own camera equipment.

This easy-to-medium difficulty hike makes seeing the mustangs easy for

most people. While there is no guarantee that the horses will show themselves, Carmack said that she has only led two hikes where her group did not see them. They might have eventually, but one group had children that couldn't continue hiking.

Early this summer, I went on one of Carmack’s guided hikes, along with

the BEACON’s graphic designer, Heidi Graf, and office manager, Lisa Moeller.

Carmack was friendly, accommodating and professional. She comes prepared with extra water, snacks, survival gear and her trusty sidekick, a French bulldog/Boston terrier mix named Oreo.

On average, the hike takes about two hours. But when I called Carmack

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Feature story 7

Let those 300 days of sunshine work for you this year.

Com eac e vis h it eve Thur us ni sd Downg at t ay Far h mer ntown e 4th s Ma and rk Ma et, in Our guide Donna Carmack stops to take a photo of us and we captured one of her. to set up the hike, she told me, “We’ll keep hiking until you see the horses or until you get tired.”

We took what she said to heart. We met her in Palisade early one Sunday morning and followed her to the Cameo exit. We crossed the river, parked our car and piled into her truck to get to the trailhead. Carmack knew the best places to spot the mustangs, but we had walked about three miles before we finally saw them.

She led us within yards of the mustangs. When it was difficult to get photos because the mustangs were turned away from us, she tactfully moved around to get them to face us.

On our way back to the trailhead, we encountered two more herds.

Carmack whispered stories about the horses, and pointed out the stallions, mares and yearlings.

Other than horses, we saw lots of plants and a few lizards but Carmack said that she has spotted big horn sheep, deer and other wildlife in the area. We estimated that we hiked about six miles round-trip.

A Grand Valley native, Carmack has hiked, hunted, fished and photographed the area in great detail. Her passion for photography led her to establish Donna Carmack Photography, LLC, combining her love of photography with her hikes. Included in the $75 cost is a CD containing all of her photos from the hike with the rights to use the photos as you wish.

You’ve never seen wild horses like this before. Set up your hike today, while the weather is nice by calling Carmack at 640-8825 or visit www. donnacarmack.com. ■

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Easy homemade pet treats

M o n day - T h u r s day u n T i l 6 p M

Early DinE

As with any special treats, be sure to give your pet only small amounts and offer them occasionally. Because of the many ingredients in these recipes, feed only a tiny amount first to ensure there is no gastrointestinal upset. Also, you could leave out the dairy ingredients if your pet has sensitivities.

Favorite s ' o d i F Trea

for

ts

Makes 3-1/2 dozen treats

c ho o se f rom

1 c rolled oats 1/3 c margarine or butter 1 c boiling water 3/4 c cornmeal 1 T sugar 2 t chicken or beef instant bouillon 1/2 c milk 1 c shredded cheddar cheese 1 egg, beaten 2 c white or wheat flour

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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease cookie sheet. Combine rolled oats, margarine and water in a large bowl. Let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in cornmeal, sugar, bouillon, milk, cheese and egg. Mix well. Add flour 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition to form a stiff dough. On a floured surface, knead in remaining flour until dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Roll or pat out dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutter. Place 1 inch apart on cookie sheet. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely. Store loosely covered.

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our original margaritas have three tequilas and are specially blended with our signature sweet and sour, orange juice and agave nectar.

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Let cool. Give to your cat and watch them gobble it up.

August 2013

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Advice & ideas 9

Ask the Old Bag Advice Column for the Over 50 Crowd

By Gayle LagmanCreswick From the Old Bag: These first two letters were too long to print their entirety. I will extract what I believe to be the gist of the letters for my readers. This first letter was written in response to last month’s letter from the Bible-reading woman who wrote that she was worried about the soul of her friend whom she defined as adulterous. She did not like my answer or my quote from the Bible. (“Judge not lest ye be judged.”)

Dear Old Bag: …He has told us to be witnesses to these folks.

How can we be witnesses... if we just look the other way while they live their ungodly lifestyles?...Yes, God does indeed call us to tell all sinners that their lifestyle is wrong.

We are not to bless their lifestyle by looking the other way. So in that respect, we are to judge those living in sin... Signed, Another Bible Reader Dear Bible Reader: I am no match for Bible students nor do I pretend to be. I do respect your opinion. I also remember the Bible story which said, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” I, for one, do not cast stones. I have to say that I am glad you are not my friend. But I do thank you for writing. O.B. Dear Old Bag: I would like your help in starting a movement... My mama used to say, “We are all children of God.” I found myself labeled everything from a “dirty Mexican” to a “Spanish-American." Guess what? I’m a human being, woman and American, whose brothers fought for our freedom...in Vietnam... I have now met people from everywhere in the world. We are all human beings who could respect one another even if our politics or religions are different… I feel very rich in spirit and I feel truly grateful

that I am blessed to be an American woman.

Dear American Woman: Thank you for your spirited and touching letter.

If we could begin this movement and move it successfully, there would be no war.

Let us do it! I’m in. It is better to light one little candle than to stumble in the dark. Thank you! O.B. Dear Old Bag: This is a response to the woman who wrote last month about wanting to take separate vacations. My husband and I have been taking separate vacations for years for the same reason she wants to take a separate one. We could not get along once we hit the road. I highly recommend separate vacations. In our case, we are always happy to get back together and hear about each other’s trip. I actually think it has strengthened our marriage. Signed, Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder!

Dear Grow Fonder: Thanks for sharing. I guess there is such a thing as too much togetherness. O.B. Dear Old Bag: I heard by way of the grapevine that you recently lost your husband. I want to speak on behalf of your readers to let you know that you have our deepest sympathy. I have been there myself.

Signed, Sorry for Your Loss Dear Sorry: Thank you for the condolence. This was a second marriage for us and, in truth, it was the best 12 1/2 years of my life. He was older than I, so I was just praying for a few good years and look what we had! We had so much fun enjoying jazz, sports, travel and friends. The last year I pretty much took care of him and it was truly an honor. He was the most appreciative man in the world. I will miss him, but I am happy he did not have to suffer anymore. Thanks again, O.B. ■

Send your questions to the Old Bag in care of the BEACON, or email lagmancreswick@ cox.net.

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10 Health & wellness

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The Healthy Geezer

Make the MOST DANGEROUS room in the house SAFER!

By Fred Cicetti

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I’ve noticed a lot of alcoholics in this community. Do seniors drink more in these places?

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I couldn’t find any information that verified that retirement community residents drink more than people who don’t live in retirement communities. However, these developments are by nature more social. So perhaps you’re just seeing more drinking. But with more drinking, you’ll find more people who don’t handle it well.

Alcoholism is a serious problem among seniors. It is a disease with four symptoms: craving or compulsion to drink, the inability to limit drinking, high alcohol tolerance and physical dependence.

Alcohol abuse does not include cravings, loss of control or physical dependence. It is defined as drinking that causes problems in your life such as failing at work, getting arrested for drunk driving, or hurting someone physically or emotionally because of drinking.

Moderate drinking is defined as consuming up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people. A standard drink is a 12-ounce beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.

Here are some statistics: • About 70 percent of hospital admissions for older adults are for illness and accidents related to alcohol.

• About half of older adults in nursing homes have an alcohol problem.

• Older adults lose an average of 10 years off their lives because of alcohol abuse.

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• About 80 percent of doctors misdiagnose alcoholism as depression in older women.

• The highest growing number of alcoholics is among 75-year-old widowers.

• About 10 percent of patients over age 60 who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are actually suffering from brain

damage caused by alcoholism.

“Alcohol abuse among older adults is something few want to talk about or deal with,” said Charles Curie, former administrator of the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Too often family members are ashamed of the problem and choose not to address it. Health care providers tend not to ask older patients about alcohol abuse if it wasn’t a problem in their lives in earlier years. Sometimes the symptoms are mistaken for those of dementia, depression, or other problems common to older adults.

Unfortunately, too many older persons turn to alcohol as a comfort, following the death of a spouse, a divorce, retirement, or some other major life change, unaware that they are markedly affecting the quality of their lives.”

The American Medical Association published this list of physical symptoms to diagnose alcoholism. If an older person shows several of these symptoms, there is a high probability of alcoholism.

• Bruises, abrasions and scars in locations that might suggest frequent falls, bumping into objects, physical altercations or other violent behavior • Cigarette burns on the fingers • Flushed or florid faces • Jerky eye movement or loss of central vision • Damage to nerves causing numbness and tingling • Hypertension • Gastrointestinal or other bleeding • Cirrhosis or other evidence of liver impairment, such as swelling in the lower extremities, and other signs of fluid retention.

• Psoriasis ■

If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How to be a Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer. com. If you have a question, write to fred@ healthygeezer.com.

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Love on a leash Some dogs prefer to sit quietly and are better suited for the library. Othandy Sekeres, 72, brought her love ers like the more active experience of dogs and people together when of touring a hospital and meeting a she organized two pet therapy provariety of people. grams in Rifle.

In either case, dogs must be evenOne of the programs, Paws to Love, tempered, enjoy meeting people and has been around for 10 years and is accept handling by other people. affiliated with Grand River Hospital.

They also need to have mastered The program involves Sekeres taking basic obedience commands. therapy dogs to hospitals, assisted Sekeres said she loves seeing the living facilities and nursing homes connection between the people and throughout Garfield County to proanimals. vide emotional support to patients “One time when we went to the E. and residents.

Dene Moore Care Center, there was A therapy pet’s main function is to one little guy who brighten somewas just out of it,” one’s day. Therapy Sekeres said. “I pets are primarily put his hand on dogs, but can be Rifle (her dog) other animals and tears just such as cats and started flowing rabbits. They can down his face.” be any breed, size, Sekeres said she age or gender. is surprised by Through Paws how important to Love, therapy the visits have pets comfort the become to hospielderly, sick or tal and care center injured. When staff as well. She planning a visit, said many staff Sekeres tries to members enjoy a send a team of break in their day two dogs and two when a therapy volunteers for an pet drops by for hour-long visit. a visit.

She aims to bring “They are one large dog and always giving, one small dog to Sandy Sekeres and her dog, Rifle, help kids giving and giving with their literacy skills at Garfield County please lovers of to others,” Sekeres library branches. both varieties. said. “Now they As part of the other program, get a little love back from our dogs.”

Paws to Read, Sekeres takes dogs to Sekeres provides training for dogs Garfield County branch libraries for and their owners who would like Paws to Read sessions. The idea of to volunteer through the organizathis program is that a child can praction, Love on a Leash. The training is tice reading aloud to a therapy dog. free and consists of three one-hour The dog serves as an audience that is sessions. Her next training will be nonjudgmental. Therefore, the dog from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. on August promotes self-confidence in children 9, 16 and 23 at the E. Dene Moore that may be struggling with their Care Center, 701 E. Fifth St. in Rifle. literacy skills.

Registration is required. Class size is To be a therapy dog, he or she limited, so register by calling Brittany needs to “love people, get along at 625-6215. For more information about pet therapy, visit www.love with other dogs and like the work,” onaleash.org. ■ Sekeres said.

Health & wellness 11

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12 Health & wellness

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August 2013

Scratching the right itch:

Does your pet have seasonal allergies?

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According to the Pet Allergy Worldwide Survey (PAWS) sponsored by Novartis Animal Health, 44 percent of pet owners are unaware that their pet can suffer from chronic seasonal allergies, just like people.

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common allergic skin diseases in pets and is estimated to affect 10 to 15 percent of animals. It is also among the top 10 reasons that pet owners take their cats to their veterinarians. The disease is chronic, recurrent and requires lifelong management.

Online quiz sorts out common symptoms According to the PAWS survey, 80 percent of pet owners would like to know more about how to recognize and treat pet allergies. To determine whether a pet’s symptoms warrant a veterinary visit and possible treatment to relieve the symptoms, pet owners can take a simple online quiz developed by veterinarians at www. itchfreepet.com.

Signs of allergic dermatitis in pets may vary, but common symptoms include red, scaly patches, persistent itching and scratching, and biting or licking of paws. Hair loss and sores are also common, as a result of the itching and scratching, although the pattern for this differs between dogs and cats. By taking this online quiz, pet owners can determine if they should bring their pet to the veterinarian for testing.

What allergens cause these symptoms?

Just like people, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies to pol-

len, as well as year-round allergies to dust mites and mold spores. Although the underlying mechanism of the allergic response is similar to what people experience, the symptoms are quite different. People with allergies sneeze, cough and suffer from runny nose, eye irritation and sinus problems. Allergic cats and dogs, by contrast, itch, scratch and lose their hair.

In the past, treatments were limited to creams and steroids, which either caused limited effectiveness or less than desirable side effects when used longterm. Today, while there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, there are more options to help animals find relief. Pet owners can ask their veterinarians about the drug that treats the problem from the inside out, at the pet’s cellular level. This treatment, ATOPICA(R) (Cyclosporine capsules, USP) MODIFIED for dogs or ATOPICA (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED for Cats, can reduce the itching and restore comfort to pets. Getting help for an allergic pet may be just one vet visit away.

“Allergic dermatitis for some pets means scratching or licking more frequently than what is considered normal, and for other pets it can mean sores and furless patches on the skin or painful paw biting that gets in the way of exercise, sleep and overall comfort for the animal,” Dr. Keith Hnilica said. “It is important to take your pet to see the veterinarian if you suspect your pet may have allergies, to determine whether it is a candidate for a long-term, comforting solution to this painful condition.”

Visit www.itchfreepet.com to learn more. For specific information on ATOPICA in the U.S., please visit www.us.atopica.com. ■

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Health & wellness 13

Do people really shrink as they age?

By Tait Trussell

W

hen you get your annual physical, the nurse will have you step on a scale to find your weight.

Then, typically, she will measure your height. You likely will be slightly shorter than the last time you were there.

People do shrink as they age. It mainly has to do with your bones.

They are deceptively hard looking if seen from the outside. But their solid appearance hides an intricate and busy network of blood vessels, which carry nutrients to and transport wastes away from your bone cells.

Bones are in a constant process of destruction and renewal until you die. As the years go by, bones become weaker. You tend to lose more bone than you build. From age 40 to 80, the average person is likely to lose two inches in height, just because of bone loss.

Osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become thin and weak, is influenced by genetics. Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Bone loss also accelerates in the years after menopause.

Bad habits, such as smoking, excessive use of alcohol, and an overly sedentary lifestyle also can contribute to osteoporosis, as can inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D. Does everyone get shorter with age? Yes. Spongy disks separating the vertebra in your spine deteriorate, so usually your posture also changes with age. You begin to slump. Too much time spent bending over your computer or trying to read a book with small print will do it.

Joints become resistant to wear over time because of changes in cartilage. Getting old makes cartilage lose lubricating water, making it more vulnerable to injury from years of repetitive motion.

Osteoarthritis comes about when the cartilage starts to fray. You can feel it in your hips, knees, spine and hands.

If you are overweight, this in-

creases your prospects of developing osteoarthritis. You probably notice you can’t lift as heavy weights as you could several years ago. Aging causes less strength, size and endurance and less blood flow in the muscle tissue.

Inactivity does more damage than aging does.

But enough of this anatomy lesson.

Getting back to becoming shorter: This tendency occurs among all races and both sexes. People tend to lose close to half an inch every decade after age 40. Height loss is even more rapid after age 70. You could lose one to three inches in height in years after 70 if you live long enough.

Some people “may sustain small compression fractures in their spine, often without their knowledge,” UCLA School of Medicine Chief of Geriatrics Dr. David B. Reuben said.

These fractures can lead to excessive curving of the spine. When it is very pronounced, it is known as “dowager’s hump.”

New research by the Gerontological Society of America, working with a team in Japan, found that a sloping spine angle of the elderly, if severe enough, could necessitate admission into a nursing home.

As for shortening of seniors, even the flattening in the arches of your feet can contribute to a loss of height.

The best way to slow your natural shrinkage as you age, doctors recommend, is to get regular exercise, eat a healthy diet that includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and optimal amounts of healthy fats, limit your alcohol use, and avoid smoking. But you knew these facts already. ■

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All the presidents’ pets

By Nick Thomas

O

ver the past 224 years or so, hundreds of animals have barked, purred, squawked, squeaked, neighed, cackled, quacked, hooted, mooed, or growled their way through 44 U.S. administrations. In many cases, those unelected residents of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. were probably viewed by the American public with even greater affection than their elected masters.

George Washington began the presidential pet parade in 1789 by bringing his parrot, Polly, and more than three dozen dogs and horses to his administration. Since construction of the White House was not completed during his tenure, the president and his animals lived at Washington’s home—Mount Vernon, his Virginia estate.

Washington was devoted to his animals, especially his horses. His favorite was Nelson, the mount he

rode when accepting Cornwallis’ surrender at Yorktown in 1781, which ended the Revolutionary War. He also owned the first presidential dogs— Drunkard and Tipsy—which suggests that riding horses wasn’t his only pleasure.

John Adams became the first president to reside in the White House in 1800. He shared his new home with just a few dogs and horses, and built the first White House stables. But Adams barely had time to settle into his new home when Thomas Jefferson defeated him in the elections that year.

Jefferson was known for his eccentricities, such as wearing slippers during important meetings. Even more distracting to visitors was Dick the mockingbird, who often perched on Jefferson’s shoulder as he wandered the hallowed halls.

Jefferson was replaced by the shy and reserved James Madison, who was accompanied to the White

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House by his vivacious wife, DolFranklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial ley. An outgoing and charming first in Washington, D.C. lady, she quickly became the focus Lyndon Johnson was a beagle of Washington social events, appearman, and he had several. This led his ing lavishly attired and often seen in enemies to claim that there was a her trademark, a feathered turban. mongrel in the White House. ActuBut Dolley wasn’t the only chatty ally, they may have been referring bird flaunting her plumage during to Yuki, a mutt that the president's the Madison administration. She had daughter found wandering at a to compete with Polly the parrot for Texas gas station on Thanksgiving Madison’s attention.

Day 1966.

Proving that presidents had little Accompanied by Johnson, Yuki was imagination for naming famous for “singing” for feathered pets, Andrew White House guests, and Jackson’s parrot was few visitors were spared called Poll. Like his the Yuki-Johnson duets. master, Poll developed Richard Nixon proban earthy vocabulary. At ably had the most fatimes, the bird had to be mous political pooch in separated from company modern times. As the to protect delicate ears. republican nominee for After Jackson died, it is vice president in 1952, said that Poll was placed Nixon addressed the nain the room with Jacktion on television to deny son’s body before intercharges that he had used ment, but the bird let money from a slush fund Ronald Reagan and Rex loose such obscenities to pay for private expensthat it had to be removed. es. In the half-hour speech, Nixon Two early 20th century republiadmitted his intention to keep one can presidents, Teddy Roosevelt and gift—a cocker spaniel named CheckCalvin Coolidge, had some unusual ers that had been given to his 6-yearanimals. Among their diverse guests old daughter. Nixon successfully used were badgers, kangaroo rats, lizards, his child's pet dog to dig himself out snakes, bears and lion cubs, as well of the financial scandal. as a raccoon, coyote, hyena, zebra, As president, Nixon had a fish tank bobcat, wallaby and a pigmy hippo. and several dogs in the White House.

Franklin Roosevelt was devoted to But halfway through his second his Scottish terrier, Fala—perhaps term, Nixon dug himself a hole so more so than to his wife, Eleanor, deep, a whole kennel of pound pupon whom he reportedly cheated. pies couldn't help him climb out.

Fala accompanied the president on He resigned due to the Watergate his plane, ship and train travels, and scandal, reluctantly turning over the lived 12 years. The two are immorWhite House keys to Vice President talized side by side in bronze at the Gerald Ford.

Teddy Roosevelt, Jr. and Eli Yale

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Benjamin Harrison with Old Whiskers, the billy goat.

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Franklin Roosevelt and Fala Ford assumed both the presidency and vice presidency (when Spiro Agnew resigned) without ever being elected. He loved to play golf and would hit eagles and birdies as well as occasional human spectators who were beaned by his errant strokes.

Other unfortunate incidents of the president tripping in public were broadcast on television, earning him a reputation as clumsy. Ford's pets—a dog and a cat—apparently gave their master a wide berth.

Ronald Reagan brought to the White House his big-screen charisma, homespun charm and a couple of dogs. One, a King Charles spaniel called Rex, was noted for tugging hard on his leash and occasionally dragging the president from questioning reporters on White House grounds—undoubtedly a useful tactic when questions about the Iran-Contra scandal were raised. Reagan also loved to escape to his 688-acre ranch in California to ride horses.

Following Reagan was George H.W. Bush. His spaniel, Millie (with a little grammatical assistance from Mrs. Bush) published a book about life in the White House. This was proof to many that Millie was far smarter than Mrs. Coolidge with Rebecca.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com some vice presidents. But even with Millie as his speechwriter, Bush failed to convince the American public that he deserved a second term.

In 1992, Bill Clinton brought the 12-year republican presidential era to an end. The youthful president had a chocolate Labrador retriever, Buddy, and Socks the cat. But of the three, it was the president who was a "very bad boy" in the Oval Office. And political opponents have been rubbing his nose in it ever since.

Like Clinton, George W. Bush took an instant liking to the convenience of travel by helicopter. Television broadcasts frequently showed him emerging from the first chopper and walking briskly toward the Oval Office, where his family and staff would welcome his return. Occasionally, one figure could be seen bounding across the White House lawn to warmly greet his master, panting at his side. No, this most devoted of Bush followers was not a breathless Dick Cheney. Rather, it was Barney, the president's energetic black Scottish terrier. Barney had several other playmates in the White House, including India the cat.

When the Bush era ended and Barney moved out, there was much interest in his four-legged replacement.

The Obama family eventually settled on a cute black and white Portuguese water dog named Bo. Although Bo was a gift from the Kennedy clan, perhaps the first family should have considered adopting a dog from Obama's home state of Hawaii – although Donald Trump probably would have insisted on inspecting its pedigree. ■

Teddy Roosevelt's Warren Harding one-legged rooster. and Laddie Boy.

Herbert Hoover and King Tut, police dog.

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16 Laughing matters

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Laughing Matters Fishing trip Submitted by Charles Gross A man called home to his wife and said, “Honey, I have been invited to go fishing in Canada with my boss and several of his friends. We’ll be gone a week. This is a good opportunity for me to get that promotion I’ve been wanting, so could you please pack enough clothes for a week and set out my rod and tackle box? We’re leaving from the office and I will swing by the house to pick up my things. Oh! Please pack my new blue silk pajamas.”

The wife thought this sounded a bit fishy, but she did exactly what her husband asked.

The following weekend he came home a little tired but otherwise looking good. The wife welcomed him home and asked about the trip.

“Great!” he said. “We caught lots of walleye, some bass and even a few perch. But why didn’t you pack my

new pajamas like I asked you to?”

“I did,” the wife replied. “They’re in your tackle box.”

Impossibilities in the world Submitted by Karen Jones 1. You can’t know how many hairs are on your head.

2. You can’t wash your eyes with soap.

3. You can’t breathe through your nose when your tongue is out.

Okay, maybe you can. Put your tongue back in your mouth, you silly person.

Now, 10 things I know about you: 1. You’re reading this.

2. You’re human.

3. You can’t say the letter “P“ without parting your lips.

4. You just attempted to do it.

6. You are laughing at yourself.

7. You have a smile on your face and you skipped number 5.

8. You just checked to see if there was a number 5.

9. You laugh at this because everyone else does it, too.

10. You are probably going to show this to other people to see if they fall for it, too.

Take me to jail!

Submitted by Paula Purser A state trooper pulled over a car.

When the trooper asked the driver why he was speeding, the driver said he was a magician and a juggler and was on his way to do a show at the Shrine Circus. He didn’t want to be late.

The trooper told the driver that juggling fascinated him. He told the driver that if he would do a little juggling for him then he wouldn’t give him a ticket. The driver told the trooper he had sent his equipment ahead and didn’t have anything to juggle.

The trooper went back to his car and took out some flares that he had in the trunk. He asked the driver if he could juggle them. The driver said yes. The trooper lit them and handed

August 2013 them to him.

While the man was juggling, a car pulled up behind the patrol car. A drunken man got out, watched the performance, then went over to the patrol car, opened the rear door and got in. The trooper observed him and went over to the patrol car, opened the door and asked the drunk what he thought he was doing.

The drunk replied, “You might as well take me straight to jail because there ain’t no way I can pass that test.“

Did you know?

Submitted by John Archuleta Did you know that “listen” and “silent” use the same letters? Did you know that “race car” spelled backwards still spells “race car?” Did you know that “eat” is the only word that if you take the first letter and move it to the last, it spells its past tense— “ate?”

How is Norma?

Submitted by Angela An elderly lady called the local hospital, and sweetly and timidly

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“I'll be glad to help,” the receptionist said. “What's the name and room number of the patient?”

“Norma Findlay,” the woman replied. “Room 302.”

“Let me put you on hold while I check with the nurse's station,” the receptionist said.

After a few minutes, the receptionist returned to the phone and said, “I have good news. Her nurse just told me that Norma is doing well.

Her blood pressure is fine. Her blood work came back normal and her physician, Dr. Cohen, has scheduled her to be discharged tomorrow.”

“Thank you,” the woman said.

“That's wonderful. I was so worried.

God bless you for the good news.”

“You're more than welcome,“ the receptionist said. “Is Norma your daughter?”

“No,” the woman said. “I'm Norma Findlay in room 302. No one tells me anything.”

Because the Bible says so Submitted by Dorothy Ross A man and his wife were arguing about who should brew the coffee each morning.

The wife said, “You should do it because you get up first. Then we don’t have to wait as long to get our coffee.”

The husband argued, “You are in charge of the cooking and you should do it because that is your job. I can wait for my coffee.”

“No, you should do it,” the wife said. “It is in the Bible that the man should make the coffee.”

“I don’t believe that,” the husband said. “Show me.”

The wife picked up the Bible and opened it up to the New Testament.

On the top of several pages, it said, “Hebrews.”

Brain cell exercises Submitted by Norman Dunham Answers below.

1. Johnny’s mother had three children. The first child was named April.

The second child was named May. What was the third child’s name?

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com 2. There is a clerk at the butcher shop. He is 5'10" tall and he wears size 13 sneakers. What does he weigh?

3. Before Mt. Everest was discovered, what was the highest mountain in the world?

4. How much dirt is there in a hole that measures two feet by three feet by four feet?

5. What word in the English language is always spelled incorrectly?

6. Billy was born on December 28, yet his birthday is always in the summer. How is this possible?

7. In California, you cannot take a picture of a man with a wooden leg.

Why not?

8. What was the president’s name in 1975?

9. If you were running a race and you passed the person in second place, what place would you be in now?

10. Which is correct to say: “The yolk of the egg are white” or “The yolk of the egg is white?”

11. If a farmer has five haystacks in one field and four haystacks in the other field, how many haystacks would he have if he combined them all in another field?

Answers: 1. Johnny 2. Meat 3. Mt. Everest was still the highest. It just wasn’t discovered yet.

4. There is no dirt in a hole.

5. Incorrectly 6. Billy lives in the southern hemisphere.

7. You can’t take pictures with a wooden leg. You need a camera to take pictures.

8. Same as it is now. Barack Obama.

9. You would be in second place. You passed the person in second place, not first.

10. Neither. The yolk of the egg is yellow.

11. One. If he combines all of his haystacks, they all become one big one.

■ Send your funniest jokes to: beacon@ pendantpublishing.com

Laughing matters 17

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August 2013

BEACON readers cruise to Alaska BEACON staff describe their favorite moments during our first-ever BEACON Reader Cruise to Alaska.

Cheryl Currier, Garfield County Editor: “My favorite part of the trip was being able to sit comfortably on deck and see constantly changing views of the Alaskan coast and Tracy Arm Fjord. We drove over the pass above Skagway and stopped to take a picture of Tutshi Lake in the Yukon Territory. We also enjoyed the view from our dinner table while we heard about what everyone had done that day."

Kevin VanGundy, Publisher: “As publisher of the BEACON, going on vacation requires a lot of overtime work, both before the trip in preparing to be gone for 10 days and then again catching up on my work when I return.

But there is a magical moment in between, where the stress dissipates like the air being released from an over-inflated balloon. For me, that moment of bliss happened when I caught my first glimpse of Mt. Rainier from the airplane as we approached Seattle.”

Genevra Shal, Office Assistant: “I was taken aback by the works of Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum in Seattle. The large outdoor garden of colored glass was so beautiful. His pieces were so large.

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Sue Bowen, Sales Representative: “My favorite part of the trip was setting sail from Seattle in anticipation of a very memorable vacation. The best day for me was when we saw the Mendenhall Glacier, went whale watching and ate a great salmon dinner at the lodge in Juneau. One funny thing I remember is our steward leaving animals made from folded towels in our room. Heidi and I always looked forward to seeing what kind of animal he made for us.”

Cloie Sandlin, Editor: "There was the anticipation of firsts: my first cruise, my first time in Seattle and Alaska, my first time whale watching and snorkeling, and my first time in another country. Even though this was an Alaskan cruise, I enjoyed our time in Victoria, British Columbia.

It’s a beautiful city with pristine gardens, Edwardian architecture and I loved the way the harbor lights dazzled at night. But by far the best part about this trip was sharing it with my friends at the BEACON."

Heidi Graf, Graphic Designer: “One incredibly breathtaking moment occurred at the Tracy Arm Fjord Glacier. A lone tour boat motoring out toward the glacier was dwarfed among the ice floes and the majestic scenery.”

Lisa Moeller, Office Manager: “While walking around the beautiful city of Juneau, we came across this gorgeous chocolate lab. He reminded me of one of my three chocolate labs (that I was missing very much) back in G.J. It made me happy to have come across this wonderful lab that God put in my path to help alleviate some of the feelings of missing my babies.”

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Richard W. Lewis, Funeral Director

Some funeral ceremonies call for the casket to be carried from the ceremony or service to a funeral vehicle and then from there to the burial site. This position derives its name from the fact that the covering draped over a casket is known as a “pall,” hence those helping are called “pallbearers.”

Those who preplan funerals that include this ritual should make known their wishes concerning who their pallbearers should be. Although usually reserved for close friends and relatives of the deceased, there are certainly no limitations on number who can be named as pallbearer. However, it is best to reserve this special honor to those who are both physically and emotionally suited to the task. The number of pallbearers usually ranges from four to eight.

Today, a pall is used in almost every Roman Catholic and Lutheran funeral ceremony conducted within the church. A pall is usually made of white cloth with varying degrees of adornment. The white nature of the pall is linked symbolically to the white clothing worn during baptisms. This symbolism during the introductory rites of a funeral service are done so to signify the death and rebirth of a person during a baptism – and ties the two passages of life, symbolically.

Another purpose of a pall (in some religious traditions) is to illustrate that death is a great equalizer, regardless of the simple or ornate casket bearing the earthly remains of a congregant.

Martin Mortuary, your local Dignity Memorial provider, strives to make sure that all the family’s needs are met. We do everything possible to help make a difficult time a little more bearable. The funeral service is ceremony which provides an opportunity for the surviving family members and friends to share and express their love, respect, grief as well as appreciate memories of their of loved one and life he or she lived.

We are committed to providing all our families with caring, compassionate and dignified services. Please feel free to visit our Mortuary at 550 North Avenue, and if questions arise, please do not hesitate to contact us at 970-243-1538 to make an appointment, or visit our website, MartinMortuary.com.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

Garden Smarts

By Kathy Kimbrough, Garden Scentsations

Q. I love to grow vegetables and want to make the most of my garden this year. When can I plant cool season vegetables in Grand Junction? Mary Lou T., Grand Junction Squeezing in a second crop of vegetables before fall frost makes good use of garden space. Once spring crops are harvested, fertilize and prepare the soil for your late summer planting.

Remember that Colorado’s weather varies from year to year, and frosts may come much earlier or later. The following suggestions are based on the October 25 average killing frost date in Grand Junction. If you are higher in elevation than Grand Junction, you will need to adjust your planting dates accordingly.

Chinese cabbage, broccoli, turnips and small-length carrots like the Nantes varieties can be planted by early August. Vegetables such as kale, turnip greens and beets will spring up if planted by mid-August. Radishes and many salad greens can be planted as late as the third week of September.

Q. Help! I have bindweed grow-

ing in my lawn! How can I get rid of the bindweed without killing

Plant of the Month

my grass? Maggie B., Grand Junction I feel your pain. Field Bindweed is a vigorous and deeply rooted perennial weed in our area. Bindweed and other weeds don’t compete well in a dense, healthy, well cared for lawn.

It will quickly take over unhealthy, malnourished lawns that suffer from drought stress or poor irrigation coverage. The first steps toward control include fertilizing adequately (two to four times per year, depending on turf species and age of lawn), timely and uniform irrigation, and mowing the lawn at 2 to 3-1/2 inches. These practices alone can substantially reduce the amount of bindweed in a lawn within a couple years. Bindweed can be controlled more quickly by combining proper management with judicious herbicide use.

Pre-emergent herbicides are useless for controlling bindweed. Systemic post emergent products are necessary because of its deep and extensive root system. Used alone, 2,4-D is largely ineffective against bindweed.

Three-way mixtures containing dicamba or dichlorprop (in addition to 2,4-D and MCPP/MCPA) can provide moderate to good control. The herbicide quinclorac is highly effective at controlling bindweed. Quinclorac is available in Ortho Weed B Gon

Hardy Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) - If you want a plant that has season-long interest, requires very little maintenance and is extremely adaptable, then hardy plumbago is one to consider. Plumbago is an outstanding, long-lived groundcover that is approximately 8 inches tall and 18 inches wide. It slowly weaves itself into the garden fabric, creating large drifts of fall color. The show starts with deep blue flowers in late summer. Then red seed heads slowly appear. Then the shiny green leaves turn a fiery mahogany red.

Equally comfortable in sun or shade, in heavy clay or sandy soils, this perennial looks great planted under large shrubs like lilacs or viburnums. You can also interplant spring blooming bulbs because the foliage emerges as the bulbs are dying back. Did I mention it is deer resistant, too?

MAX plus Crabgrass Control, Bayer Advanced All-In-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer, and Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns plus Crabgrass Killer. These herbicides are labeled only for use in lawns and can’t be

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August 2013 legally or safely used in landscape beds or vegetable gardens. I am going to try one of these herbicides on my lawn because I have the same problem. I will post progress on my blog, www.gardenscentsations.blogspot. com. Wish me luck!

Q. I finally have tomatoes on my tomato plant but there are squishy black spots developing on the bottom of some of the fruits. What is causing this and how can I keep it from happening to the rest of my tomatoes? Jim L., Fruita Your tomatoes are suffering from blossom end rot. It’s a very common problem. You can also get it on peppers, squash, cucumbers and melons. Blossom end rot is caused by a calcium imbalance. Fluctuations in soil moisture and excess nitrogen are the most common causes in our area.

You can prevent this from happening to new tomatoes that form on the plant by maintaining consistent levels of moisture in your vegetable garden.

Be sure to water deeply to reach all of the roots. Apply mulch around your plants to hold the moisture in.

Use fertilizers that are low in nitrogen and high in phosphorous. Discard any fruits that have blossom end rot, as they are not fit for consumption. Have faith. August is the middle of our tomato season. We can usually harvest tomatoes in the Grand Valley through the end of October.

August Garden Checklist

Gardening 21

 Don’t miss the 22nd annual Western Colorado Botanical Gardens garden tour on August 24 and 25. This year we will be able to see late summer gardens at their peak.

The CSU Extension’s master gardeners will be on hand to help answer questions about the gardens. Call 245-3288 or visit www. wcbotanic.org for more information.  This is the best time of year to divide established peonies and iris or to plant new ones. Plant peony tubers with the growth buds (called “eyes”) no more than 2 inches deep in soil amended with plenty of organic matter. When dividing iris, inspect the tubers closely and discard any shriveled or discolored sections. Cut foliage down to approximately 4 inches. Plant new and divided iris an inch or two below soil level.

Tammy McCurry tammy@ironmaidenllc.com

970-216-8497

www.facebook.com/ironmaidenllc

 Watch for aster yellows. Stunted, twisted growth and oddly distorted flowers are the symptoms of aster yellows, a disease that often shows up midsummer. Sucking insects, primarily leafhoppers, transmit this disease that infects asters and many other plants. Affected flowers should be pulled up and discarded immediately to stop the spread of the disease. Control weeds such as dandelions, plantains and thistles, which may carry it. Cover vegetables with floating row covers to exclude leafhoppers. For severe infestations, use neem oil. ■

www.ironmaidenllc.com 1979 Three Eagles Way, Loma, CO 81524

Send your questions to Kathy at Beacon@ PendantPublishing.com or mail them to the BEACON at P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502.

Please leave a phone number or a return address with your inquiries so Kathy can respond to you as soon as possible!

 With the monsoon season upon us, it won’t be long before powdery mildew starts showing up on our favorite plants like lilac, roses, columbines and squash leaves.

Here are a few ways to manage this fungal disease.

• Avoid overhead watering.

• Avoid planting in low, shady areas.

• Increase air circulation around plants.

• Dispose of plant debris in the fall to discourage overwintering of the spores.

• Plant resistant varieties of susceptible plants.

• Consider using a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew in conjunction with the above practices.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Ready for Spring? We can help with your: Landscape & Garden - Supplies & Service

Hocus Pocus "Damn thing catches birds! This is a rescue cat from across the street when the family left and abandoned her. She will gently bite your hand so that you will pet her." −Paul Gray

Decorative rocks, mulches, bark, sand, gravel, roadbase, boulders, flagstone, soil, amendments, weed barrier, edging and more.

Delivery and landscape service available.

Call us at 245-4920

Sticks and Stones 2920 D 1/2 Road Grand Junction www.gjsticksandstones.com

22 Recreation

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

Fun after 50

Offered by Grand Junction Parks and Recreation

Y

ou must register for all of the following programs. Call 254-3866 or visit www.gjcity.org/recreation. aspx to register. For a full list of activities, pick up an activity guide at the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation office, 1340 Gunnison Ave. or at the Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave. August 6

Cell Phone Basics Class covers storing contacts, managing voicemail and speed dialing. Class takes place at 10 a.m. at the Senior Recreation Center. Cost is $10.

Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Avenue - 970 243-7408

The Senior Recreation Center offers activities for seniors age 50 and older.

The center is open Monday - Saturday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Annual membership is $10.

S e n i o r R e c re a ti o n C e n te r M o n t h ly C a le n d a r

of

Ev e n ts

Monday

9:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

Cribbage Computer Classes Gray Gourmet Card Bingo Singles Pinochle (1st & 3rd Monday)

Tuesday

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Cribbage & Pool Tourney Gray Gourmet Bingo

Wednesday

9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

Ladies Pool, Card Social Jack & Jill Pool Tourney Free Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd Wed) Gray Gourmet Pinochle

Thursday

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Canasta Cleaning Crew (Last Thursday) Bunco (3rd Thursday) Band (1st Thursday) Pokeno Dance

Friday

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

Canasta, Painting Class & Pool Tourney Gray Gourmet Bible Study Bridge

Saturday

8:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

Bridge Class Bridge Bingo

Sunday

1:00 p.m.

Dance (1st & 3rd Sunday)

August 8

Montrose Museums The Montrose County Historical Museum has an extensive collection of farming and mining equipment.

The Ute Indian Museum has the most complete collection of Ute Indian artifacts in the nation. For lunch, we will have a picnic. Cost of $35 includes all expenses. Meet at Lincoln Park Barn at 9 a.m.

August 13

August 21

Free Estate Planning for the Elderly The attorneys at Brown and Brown, PC, 1250 E. Sherwood Drive, will discuss wills, trusts and powers of attorney as well as the cost of aging and possible sources of paying the cost of care, should you need it. Class is at 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.brownandbrownpc.com or call 243-8250.

August 26-30

Western Colorado Senior Games The 12th annual Western Colorado Senior Games is for anyone 50 years and better as of August 26, 2013.

Compete in track and field, swimming, pool, golf, 5K running or walking, bowling, cards, dance, horseshoes, bocce ball, pickleball and more! Registration forms are available at www.gjcity.org, the Parks and Recreation office, Senior Recreation Center and in the July issue of the BEACON. Register by August 12. Cost is $19 to compete in many competitions.

Smart Phones, iPads and You

Ongoing Classes

Learn how to change settings and ringtones, and learn about apps and how to use them in this class at 10 a.m. at the Senior Recreation Center. Cost is $10.

Gentle Yoga

August 17

Senior Sports

Watercolor for Wild and Crazy Beginners Discover your inner artist through this introductory workshop taught

by Sara Alyn Oakly at Stone Cellar Studio. Class is from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and cost is $75.

August 20

Advanced Smart Phone and iPad Learn how to use your smart phone or iPad to send and receive email, browse the web, and use web-based applications like Facebook. Class is at 10 a.m. Cost is $10.

This class is designed for all abilities and is from 7:45 a.m.-8:45 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays at Lincoln Park Barn. Cost is $4 to drop in.

• Senior softball is open to men and women age 50 and older. For details, call Carl at 255-6688.

• Pickleball is geared toward players of all skill levels. Balls and racquets are available for use. Play in the mornings at the Pine Ridge Courts located in the Ridges. For details, call 254-3876. ■

The Fall Activity Guide will be available online August 12 and will be mailed August 26.

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

23

Fruita Calendar T

he activities below are offered

by Fruita Parks and Recreation.

To register for any of the following activities, call the Fruita Community Center at 858-0360, stop by 324 N. Coulson, or visit www.fruita.org.

Events take place at the FCC unless otherwise noted.

August 9 & 23

Social Night

Dinner, movie and popcorn at 5:30 p.m. Dinner is $3. Registration deadline is the day before the event.

Adventure Hikes The Grand Valley has no shortage of beautiful hiking trails. From short hikes in parks to full-blown mountain trails, there are plenty of trails to choose from. Join the Fruita seniors for easy to moderate Friday morning hikes. Meet at the FCC Senior Center.

Cost is $3. Registration deadline is the day before the event.

Food for Thought

Mystery Night

Share menus, recipes, nutritional facts and more from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Dress the part, collect the clues and solve the mystery at 5:30 p.m. Meal provided. Cost is $10. Preregistration required.

Learn new ways to share clips and tips at 10:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

August 26

September 10

Hawaiian Luau Enjoy Hawaiian dancing, music, food and more out by the pool starting at 5:30 p.m. Luau entrees create a tropical oasis right here in Fruita! Cost is $15. Register by September 6.

Coupon Savvy Group

Game Night: At 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

Bunco!

Play at 1 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Bring a wrapped white elephant gift. ■

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$27,000 IN GAS CARDS

WATCH OUR 10PM NEWS TO GET YOURS

WWW.KREXTV.COM/CONTEST

Home

Learn how you can be pain-free

F

amily Health West and the Fruita Community Center are proud to present the Pain-Free Speaker Series, providing free health education to the community on topics surrounding chronic pain.

“The presenting doctors are experts in chronic pain issues and are known for getting results,” Family Health West Director of Development and Community Relations Angelina Salazar said. “In this series, each specialist will discuss an issue, his or her approach, and how he or she collaborates with other experts to get maximum benefits for patients.”

Presentations are at 6 p.m. at the Peach Meeting Room at the Fruita Community Center.

• July 30 - Physiatrist Dr. Lynda Hamner will present how physiatry as a field of medicine helps control pain.

• August 20 - Anesthesiologist Dr. Kenneth C. Lewis will talk about injections for low back pain.

• August 27 - Physiatrist Dr. Ellen Price will cover myofascial pain syndrome.

• September 24 – All specialists will be a part of a panel discussion and will answer questions.

Space is limited. Reserve your seat for one or all of the presentations by calling 858-0360. For more information, call 858-2104 or visit www. familyhealthwest.org. ■

Loans Shelly Smith CO MLO License # 100011819 NMLS # 273372 Town & Country # 299128

In downtown Fruita

858-4752

122 E. A spEn , F ruitA , C olorAdo 81521

24 Local lore

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

Firefighters n r e t s e W n i

Colorado

C&B Tire & Recap Fire, Third Street & Rood Avenue, October 2, 1956. Photo courtesy of the Museum of Western Colorado.

Part 2

By Sandi Cameron

O

n January 8, 1943, a fire engulfed a hangar at Grand Junction’s Municipal Airport. Eight planes were destroyed, including seven that were owned by Eddie Drapela, who was running a flight training school out of the hangar. No one was injured but the only plane to survive was an obsolete Alexander Eaglerock plane. The hangar was valued at $3,500 and Drapela’s planes had a total value of over $12,000.

On June 27, 1943, railroad cars carrying World War II munitions caught fire and exploded, showering Grand Junction with shells, shrapnel and debris for several hours. It was too

dangerous for firefighters to get close enough to play hose lines on the flaming rail cars. Several people were injured, including Charles Downing, the city’s fire chief. Downing was standing at the corner of a warehouse when an exploding shell shattered his arm. Surgeons amputated his arm at the hospital and administered two pints of blood. A separate dispatch said authorities “sought clues linking a possible saboteur ring” but officials of the Denver Rio Grande and Western Railroad suggested an overheated axle or brakes were most likely the source of the fire.

On December 14, 1945, a fire destroyed the upper floors of the

fully occupied Hotel Glenwood in Glenwood Springs. The five guests who leaped from the third story into firemen’s nets were hospitalized. The four-story brick building was gutted, with the front wall collapsing into Glenwood’s Main Street. Firefighters sprayed water on nearby Foster Hospital to prevent the flames from spreading.

On October 2, 1956, an explosion inside C&B Tire and Recap, located on Third Street and Rood Avenue, set fire to the building and resulted in $35,000 in damage to supplies and inventory. The building, believed to be valued at $25,000, was also destroyed, as was a U.S. Post Office truck inside the station. The

explosion occurred when a gas boiler supplied a spark, igniting the fumes from a solvent used for recapping tires.

Three trucks responded to the fire.

Firefighters battled the fire for over five hours and continued in the early hours of the next morning, when the fire rekindled. Observers could hear the tires pop as heat and fire reached the stockpiles. There were no injuries and very little damage to nearby buildings. A power outage extended to much of the business district on Main Street.

On April 10, 1974, a fire that started in a feed mill destroyed two and a half blocks of Grand Junction, south of the main business district. Grand Junction Fire Chief R.T. Mantlo said

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Local lore 25

This memorial at Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs memorializes the 14 fallen firefighters and is a refuge for firefighting crews traveling to or returning home from a fire.

October 2, 1956 – Civilian passersby joined city firemen in the early moments of the fight against the oil and rubber-fed fire at C&B Tire and Recap on Third Street and Rood Avenue. At right is the rear of a post office truck, which was taken in to be washed and came out charred. In the foreground is a small fire extinguisher, useless against the fire which swept the entire building a few seconds after it started. Photo courtesy of the Museum of Western Colorado.

an electrical short caused the fire.

Two firemen suffered minor injuries.

Eleven years later, the Rocky Mountain Natural Gas building in Glenwood Springs exploded, killing 12 people.

One of the worst fires in the history of western Colorado was on July 6, 1994. Fourteen firefighters battling a forest fire near Glenwood Springs perished as a wall of flames swept over them in a matter of seconds. Lightning touched off the blaze two days earlier and shifting winds fanned flames that trapped the firefighters. Trapped by steep slopes and dense vegetation, they gave their lives in the line of duty on Storm King Mountain. Over 2,000 acres burned. A memorial at Two Rivers

Park in Glenwood Springs memorializes the fallen firefighters and is a refuge for firefighting crews traveling to or returning home from a fire. It is intended to honor all firefighters but allows visitors to particularly reflect on the courage and dedication of wildland firefighters.

On your next trip to Denver, consider visiting the Firefighters Museum at 1326 Tremont Place. The museum is housed in a 1909 firehouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They have a variety of exhibits, along with a store for buying items related to firefighting. Visit www.denverfirefightersmuseum.org for more information.

In 2009, 1.3 million fires occurred in the U.S., with over 100 firefighter

deaths and 3,000 civilian deaths.

During this same period, 70 percent of firefighters were volunteer.

Only 5 percent of calls were actual fires, 65 percent were medical aid, and 8 percent were false alarms.

The Black Forest fire near Colorado Springs is considered to be the worst forest fire in Colorado’s history in terms of damage. The fire began on June 11, 2013, and spread rapidly. Two people died and nearly 500 homes were completely destroyed. Meanwhile, many other Colorado forest fires were being fought.

Thank a firefighter today for his unselfish devotion to duty and to helping his fellow man. ■

He has walked as close to hell on earth as any man could do, And he’s so proud of the job he did for people he never knew.

He is a fireman, with overwhelming pride, Never afraid to take a chance when saving someone’s life.

With thanks to the Museum of Western Colorado, The Daily Sentinel, local fire departments and www.denverfirejournal.com for information for this article.

26 resource directory highlight

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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Show off your dog with GVKC is pulled around a set course), search ired of taking and rescue, master your four-footed grooming, herding, friend to the dog hunt dog training, park? Bored with and CPR and first games of fetch? It’s aid for pets. time to broaden Membership is your horizons. $20 per year. FamiGrand Valley Kennel lies can join for $25 Club is a group that per year. Members has met since 1975 receive discounts and is made up of on classes that fomany other caninecus on rally, obedicrazy people that ence and more. have a great time.

“Most of our Beau is groomed and ready to show.

Neither you nor group is from Mesa your dog needs to have a pedigree, County, with a few from Montrose, unless you want to show during the Garfield and Pitkin counties,” GVKC AKC shows.

Vice President Wendy Spurr said.

Part of GVKC’s mission is to further The club meets at 6:30 p.m. every the advancement of all dogs, both third Tuesday of the month at the mixed and purebred, and to promote Red Cross Training Building, 506 the sport of dog shows. GVKC hosts Gunnison Ave. in Grand Junction. several one-day events, including The club advocates for the wellmatches, where the dogs are judged, being of dogs and makes donations scored and awards are given; obedito several canine-oriented charities, ence, where judges tell the owner/ such as Roice-Hurst Humane Socitrainer specifically what they want ety, Mesa County Animal Services, the dog to do; and rally, which has 10 CLAWS, and those set up for Hurto 15 stations with signs that tell the ricane Sandy and the Waldo Canyon owners what task to have their dog Fire to help care for displaced and perform. injured pets.

Judges at these events look to see The group is always open to new how well the trainers and dogs work members and they have a need together, how easily the dogs are dis- for volunteers to help with events, tracted, if they respond to commands such as the upcoming AKC show on on the first attempt, September 26-29 and if the dogs apat the Mesa County pear to be enjoying Fairgrounds. For themselves. This is more information, a great way to get contact Cindy Clark started with showat 303-917-0147 ing, and the judges or email her at are more lenient and admin@grandvalley Caption willing to critique kennelclub.org. and comment.

Read more about There are GVKC how to participate members who parwith GVKC memticipate in coursing bers in AKC shows (where the dogs in next month’s follow a bag that Christy Armendarez and Zena.

BEACON. ■

By Terri Benson

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Web at m Now on the eniorNews.co www.BeaconS PMS 660

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• Mesa County • Montrose-Delta • Garfield County

“It’s the yellow pages for Western Slope seniors. ”

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Get your Free copies!

Call 970 243-8829 Come in Daily To See Our New Inventory Furniture Collectibles Home Decor Clothes

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E L A S 0% 5 O T P U FF O 243-9873

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August 2013

T

August 2013

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Is it legal for a homeowner to throw away electronics and computers?

Ask the computer guy

By Daniel Ashurst, Alpine Computer Solutions

I

t recently became Colorado law that it is illegal to dispose of computers and many other electronics in a private home’s trash service. I am happy about this new law because of the direct affect it will have on the landfills. Some say that it puts an unfair burden on homeowners to get rid of the waste. But with the resources we have in Grand Junction, that is not the case.

Alpine Computer Solutions has teamed up with E-Waste Recyclers of Colorado to bring you solutions for recycling your unwanted computers and accessories.

E-Waste Recyclers of Colorado, a Grand Junction company, recycles more ewaste than any other company on the Western Slope and they are the only certified e-waste recyclers in Grand Junction.

Q. Why should I be motivated to recycle?

Electronic devices and computers are filled with large and small devices that contain a lot of heavy metals. When these items are irresponsibly discarded, it can cause environmental concerns and leave our future generations with polluted soils and water. In a nutshell, think about the generations to come and the impact that our irresponsible acts could have on them.

Q. What does it cost to get rid of e-waste?

While you can bring the items directly to E-Waste Recyclers and most items are received without cost, Alpine Computer Solutions has a service to ensure that the least amount of waste is generated.

We have people contacting us on a regular basis to purchase low-end and older computer products as starter systems. Therefore, we offer free recycling of any computer parts with the exception of LCD and CRT screens. These currently have a small fee of $10 each.

Q. What about my information that is on my computer. Is it safe?

E-Waste Recyclers has an amazing hard drive destruction device, which ensures that your data will never make it into the wrong hands.

Alpine has a free service for ensuring the safe disposal of your personal and private information on your computer.

Q. Do you offer free pickup?

Alpine doesn’t make any money when we recycle, so we currently do not have the budget to pick up items for recycle.

However, if you can get the equipment loaded and drive it down to our office at 1000 N. Ninth St. #7, we will come out to your car and carry your equipment into our offices.

Q. Are there other devices that should be recycled that wouldn’t normally come to mind?

Yes. Keep in mind that clock radios, stereos, toasters and many other smaller devices still have heavy metals in them and should be checked for circuit boards before tossing them in your trash.

Q. Do you recycle Mac or Apple products as well as PCs? Yes. We can take any Apple or PC and many of the accessories that go with them.

We look forward to helping you keep our planet in the best possible shape.

As always, I welcome any feedback or questions. Please call us at 257-1011 if we can assist you with any recycling needs. ■ Email your questions to Daniel Ashurst with Alpine Computer Solutions at solutions@alpinepc.com or mail them to the BEACON at P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502. For professional assistance, call Daniel at 234-1011 or Alpine Computer Solutions at 257-1011.

ask the computer guy 27

28 Travel

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

P R O U D

S P O N S O R

The Synergy

M y a n m a r : the new hot destination

Company™ of Moab Organic Supplements for Lifelong Wellness

w w w . T h e S y n e r g y C o m p a n y. c o m

By Sandra Scott

M The Games Return November 6-9, 2013

Registration begins August 1st

Games will be:

Basketball, Golf, Pickleball, 5K Run/Racewalk, Tennis, Weightlifting, Table Tennis and Track & Field

www.MoabSeniorGames.com

yanmar, formerly called Burma, has long been off the radar of most travelers but things are changing and changing fast. Visiting Myanmar is now on the bucket list of savvy travelers. Years of isolation have made Myanmar one of the few countries that has not been tainted by foreign commercialism. Add to the fact that the people are friendly, the country is safe, and the sites are glorious. Now is the time to go before things change too much.

1. Yangon: Most travel starts in the former capital and largest city.

The must-do is a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the country. Get a look into the glorious history of the country at the National Museum of Myanmar and see how lavishly the kings of old lived.

2. Bagan: The ancient city is an expansive temple complex with over 4,000 temples dating from the same

era as Angkor Wat. It is one of the most important stops on the tourist trail. There are many shops of local craftspeople. A popular side trip is to Mount Popa, the home of the nats (spirits).

3. Mandalay: The country’s second largest city is very modern and was also once the capital. The golden Buddha of Mahamuni Paya is the main attraction, but for many, Mandalay is the jumping off point for nearby attractions such as the giant Mingun Bell, which weighs nearly 100 tons.

4. Lake Inle: The higher altitude offers relief from the hot temperature found throughout most of Myanmar.

The beautiful lake is best known for the unique leg-rowing fisherman but the markets are not to be missed.

5. Mrauk U: Located in Rakhine State, Mrauk U served as the capital city for three centuries. There are thousands of shrines and pagodas that adorn nearly every hilltop. A river trip to local villages noted for the ladies with the tattooed faces is a great side trip.

6. Nay Pyi Taw: Since 2005, Nay Pyi Taw has been the administrative capital of the country and is one of the world’s fastest growing cities.

The city has only recently been open

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to tourists. The Uppatasanti Pagoda (Peace Pagoda) is impressive and there are several parks nearby.

7. Golden Rock: South of Yangon, the sacred Golden Rock is balanced precariously on the edge of a cliff, making it easy to understand why the site is so revered. Legend has it that it is held in place by a single hair of Buddha. To truly appreciate the site, an overnight stay is recommended.

8. Irrawaddy River Cruise: Several companies offer cruises on Myanmar’s largest river, including the luxurious Orient Express. Scenes along the river are timeless. Cruise ships typically stop at interesting sites and villages along the way.

9. Hill stations: To get away from the oppressive heat of Yangon and other major cities, the English created towns in the highlands, including Kalaw, now a popular destination for trekkers, and Maymyo, noted for its garden and horse-drawn carriages.

The villages have a more English than Asian look.

10. Ngapali Beach: All travel in Myanmar should end with a few days at the glorious beaches on the Bay of Bengal. Soft sands and gentle waves on the virtually deserted beaches have yet to be discovered by most of the world’s sun worshippers. Amazing Ngapali Resort is truly amazing.

■

August 2013

A low house edge isn’t necessarily the end all, but it sure helps

By Mark Pilarski

Dear Mark: When it really

comes down to it, in the end, isn’t it all about the house edge when it comes to winning and losing? Wayne L. All casino games fall into one of two categories. They are either games of luck or games of skill. In games of luck, the house edge is predetermined, so the opportunity to determine success is taken out of your hands. With games of skill, players make decisions that will affect that so-called house edge.

What you do not want to do, Wayne, is think the house edge is the end all. The speed of the game, or number of decisions per hour, can be just as important. Some games are incredibly fast, such as video poker.

Some games are painstakingly slow, for instance, keno. On a fast-paced game with a low house edge, you can lose considerably more per hour than on a slow game with a much higher house edge.

Also, the house edge on some games will be directly influenced by the playing decisions you make, while on other games it is not. The house edge on games such as blackjack and video poker is affected by your hand-to-hand decisions. By making the right choices, you can maximize your winning potential on any given hand. Play poorly, and the low house edge of the game can’t help you.

On games such as craps, baccarat, roulette and slots, you just have to make the correct bets that have the lowest house edge.

Essential to every player’s success is understanding two fundamentals that will increase one’s chances of winning. They are, as you state, sticking to bets that have a low house edge—like 2 percent or less, and developing competence in those games.

By doing so, Wayne, you’ll stand a decent chance of turning the tables in your favor, staying in action longer, and stopping the flight of your hard-

Travel & gaming 29

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earned cash into the casino coffers.

Dear Mark: Did you ever

notice when you worked in the casino that players avoided them on Friday the 13th? I figure there are many players who shun the casino because they are superstitious. Jane B. Since the delusory day of Friday the 13th lands on a Friday, coinciding with it being a payday in America, I’m saying the answer is no.

Yes, Jane, certain players do confuse superstition with the mathematics of gambling. That said, you don’t lose because you saw a black cat in the casino parking lot, you lose because you are splitting 10s at blackjack. A jackpot win at slots has nothing to do with a rabbit’s foot in your pocket.

Over time, the decisions you make, combined with the odds of the games you play, automatically determine your financial bottom line.

Don’t be a gambler who believes in luck. Think as the casino does.

Believe in math. ■

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August 2013

How to live with cats and other dogmas

By B. Elwin Sherman

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y original opening line for this article began: “Ever since the dawn of time, cats have been...” but I decided not to stop there. Cats have been here since before the dawn of time. They arrived at an epochal 4 a.m., EST (Elwin Standard Time) carrying half-dead mice and plunking them down on the pillow of Man. This man’s pillow, anyway, and I’ll never understand why. There must be cats out there still stalking, catching, killing and eating their prey the full-course and old-fashioned way, just as this life cycle’s balance of natural selection intended—but those cats don’t live in this house.

Our two cats—the standard grey tabby-type members of genus Felis— are crazy.

I call them the “computer cats,” because when it comes to the ageold cat chore of mouse maintenance, they employ the drag n’ drop method. Once dragged into the bedroom, the theretofore stunned or feigningdeath mouse is dropped onto my pillow. It then jumps up and runs somewhere into the house, where it will appear periodically in escape/ panic mode for the next few days.

The cats don’t care. They’ve done their cat job: catching, delivering and releasing their victims into my universe. My job? Keeping a round-theclock rodent vigil until the novelty wears off.

To be fair, as everything crazy is relative but all relatives are not crazy, they were my female housemate’s cats before I came along, so I inherited them. My assessment of their mental status does not then always necessarily jibe with hers. She thinks they are furry, purry, lovey-nubber critters with kootchy, wootchy, wibber-nibber personae.

I think they’re domestic terrorists.

Perhaps you’ve deduced that I’m a dog person at heart. Dogs have a ding-dang-do-if-you-did beginning, and a dang-ding-don’t-if-you-didn’t

ending, more in keeping with the common male mindset.

Ding? I’ve got your dang right here.

Most men are satisfied with such logic.

When I last had a pet dog, I was most attracted to his lack of mystique and his unswerving willingness to always follow my lead, no matter what goofy human trick I was undertaking. Ding? Dog. Dang? Done.

If you’ll pardon my favorite oxymoron, dogs are the smartest dumb animals I know.

But, cats? Well … there’s a reason there’s never been a leash law for cats. Lawmakers have long known that cats cannot be naturalized into a human home. Oh, they can be fairly accommodated, sometimes lured, even occasionally coerced, but don’t ever think for a minute that you’ve tamed them.

Please, no letters from cat people telling me that you’ve trained your cats. You’re hallucinating.

You’re also in serious denial of a universal animal kingdom truth: Anything felinious is felonious because (at the risk of adding oxymoron abuse to excessive punnery) cats are the dumbest smart animals I know.

I’d remind you of the Mark Twain Hot Stove Rule: “A cat who sits on a hot stove will never sit on a hot stove again. But, it won’t sit on a cold one, either.” This is supposed to be what separates us from cats. We take lessons from our negative consequences. We learn to distinguish. We adapt.

I’m not so sure. Every year I still throw up when I go on the Tilt-AWhirl at the county fair, and every year I still go on the Tilt-A-Whirl at the county fair. You wouldn’t catch a cat falling for that.

So, where does all this male dog logic lead us?

I believe that cats teach us what we need to know about ourselves, and dogs teach us what we want to know about others.

Right about here, fish people deserve a passing mention: If any of you

August 2013 truly believe that you’re communing with your pet guppy, I won’t disabuse you of the notion, but please go stand in a corner with the cat trainers. Sorry, but fish have only one thing to teach humans: Don’t drown.

Back home, are you contemplating living with a cat? A few tips follow.

After you spend hundreds of dollars on cat toys, cat beds, and all manner of manufactured cat scratch posts, pads, ramps and climbers, your cat will ignore all of them.

It will prefer the claw-sharpening seduction of your interior baseboards and door jambs, and the slumberous security of a closeted casserole dish. Lost your cat? Ha! This is just an illusion. You need to rethink the finer points of hide n’ seek, and start checking the last possible places you’d ever go: behind the toilet, under the stove, in your wastebasket.

If you do look for your cat, never let it see you searching. It will use this against you. You must start trying to be more like a cat: illogical, ulterior, eruptive, but with the patience of dirt. Act like you’re ignoring a tree,

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com and the tree is petrified wood. Now you’re cat-like.

Be ready, as a cat renter (cats cannot be owned) to surrender proprietorship of everything in your house.

No material object belongs to you anymore. If you want to test this, try moving things from one room to another, then notice your cat’s reaction.

It’s like watching a slow-motion repo man trying to bring back the car undetected. We won’t go into how your cat will then set about reclaiming its rights to the relocated items. Just think Tilt-A-Whirl.

Cats will only accept affection when they demand it. Be prepared to always give it when they need it, whether you feel like it or not, or suffer the catsequences.

If you don’t pick up and pet an attention-seeking cat when it decides to saunter over and slither around your leg, you’ll pay the price. It will look at you like you’re a stranger, crouch at you like you’re an intruder, run from you like you’re a predator, and attack you like you’ve had it coming since birth.

The latter will come in the form of a deferred violent ambush, (a rapid leap-scratching combo of cat screech and air paws) launched days later from within or behind what you’d always thought

were safe household havens: clothes closet, shower stall, headboard.

Right about here, if you plan on surviving your life with a cat, you must stop acting like a dog in a fish tank.

Your cat will know what that means. ■

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August 2013

Crossword Puzzle Across 1 The old gray one 5 Book classification 9 Take a powder 14 Field of study 15 “Now ___ me down …”

16 One-named singer 17 Behind closed doors 19 Put to the grindstone 20 Whitney Houston’s cousin 22 Attacks 23 Skill of the masters 24 James Arness’ brother 31 Nav. officer 34 Fidelity 35 Be in store for 36 Swedish export 38 Conduct ance unit 39 Trigo nometry function 40 Journalist Stewart 42 You can get down here 45 “Solaris” author Stanislaw 46 Francis Ford Coppola’s nephew 48 ___ Kan (pet foods name) 49 Physicist Fermi 54 Martin Sheen’s acting son 58 “Cosmos” creator 60 Honduras neighbor 61 1975 Pulitzer critic 62 Bony prefix 63 ___’acte 64 School grades 65 The R in CD-ROM 66 Something to do Down 1 Hotel force 2 Legendary golfer’s nickname 3 Transplant the fern 4 Isn’t just given 5 Rosy was one 6 What there oughta be 7 Pro ___ 8 Ogling one 9 Astronaut Wally 10 Native Alabamans 11 File’s partner 12 “You ___” (Lionel Richie hit) 13 “The ___ Squad” 18 Not suitable 21 Move one’s tail?

25 Heavy reading?

26 Code of conduct 27 Classic TV’s Morgenstern

28 Colorado ski resort 29 German article 30 It may get tongue-tied 31 Strong ___ ox 32 Surrealist Salvador 33 Opposite of fem.

37 Certain placeholder 41 Gripes 43 Discharged 44 French income 47 Word before spice or star 50 Convened again 51 Marla’s predecessor 52 Cornishmen 53 Mountain range of Arkansas 54 Hungarian city or river 55 Frankenstein flunky 56 Any of three English rivers 57 “I could ___ horse!”

58 Sch. for ministers 59 One-time hoop gp.

August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Saving the man with the frog hat

By Tina Blessitt

L

ast fall, my 9-year-old son Austin had his tonsils removed. Before the surgery, Austin’s anesthesiologist came to start an IV. He was wearing a cool surgical cap covered with colorful frogs. Austin loved that frog hat.

The doctor explained that he had two choices: He could either try to start the IV or he could wait until Austin was up in the operating room.

In the OR, the doctor would give Austin some “goofy gas” and start the IV when he was more relaxed.

“So, Austin, which do you want?” he asked.

“I’ll take the gas,” Austin replied.

But when the doctor started to leave, Austin called out to him.

“Hey, wait,” he said.

The doctor turned around. “Yeah, buddy, what do you need?”

“Do you go to church?”

“No,” the doctor admitted. “I know I probably should, but I don’t.”

Austin then asked, “Well, are you saved?”

Chuckling nervously, the doctor said, “Nope. But after talking to you, maybe it’s something I should consider.”

Pleased with his response, Austin said, “Well, you should, “cause Jesus is great.”

“I’m sure he is, little guy,” the doctor said and quickly made his exit.

After that, a nurse took me to the waiting room. After about 45 minutes, the anesthesiologist came into the waiting room. He told me the surgery went well and then said, “Mrs. Blessitt, I don’t usually come down and talk to the parents after a surgery, but I just had to tell you what your son did.”

Oh, boy, I thought. What did that little rascal do now?

The doctor explained that he’d just put the mask on Austin when he signaled that he needed to say something. When the doctor removed the

mask, Austin said, “Wait a minute. We have to pray.”

The doctor told him to go ahead and Austin prayed.

“Dear Lord, please let all the doctors and nurses have a good day. And Jesus, please let the doctor with the frog hat get saved and start going to church. Amen.”

The doctor said this touched him.

“I was so sure he would pray that his surgery went well,” he said. “He didn’t even mention his surgery. He prayed for me. I had to let you know what a great little guy you have.”

A few minutes later a nurse came to take me to post-op. She had a big smile on her face as we walked to the elevator.

“Mrs. Blessitt,” she said. “I couldn’t wait to tell you something exciting that your son did.”

With a smile, I told her that the doctor already mentioned Austin’s prayer.

“But there’s something you don’t know,” she said. “Some of the other nurses and I have been witnessing to and praying for that doctor for a long time. After your son’s surgery, he tracked a few of us down to tell us about Austin’s prayer. He said, ‘Well, girls, you got me. If that little boy could pray for me when he was about to have surgery, then I think maybe I need his Jesus, too.’”

She then recounted how they joined the doctor as he prayed to receive Christ right there in the hospital.

Wow! Austin had played a small part in something wonderful. But then, so did the nurses who prayed and witnessed. I thought about John’s words in his Gospel: “One sows and the other reaps.” (John 4:37).

Austin’s experience taught me that although we never know which role we may be called to play, in the end, it doesn’t matter. What’s important is that we remain faithful in sharing the gospel. ■

“I was so sure he would pray that his surgery went well, but he prayed for me.”

faith moves 33

34 Mesa county

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Mesa County Calendar Compiled by Cloie Sandlin August 3

Hot Summer Night Car Show Enjoy a car show, delicious summer food, live entertainment, auto museum tours, prizes and more from 3 p.m.-8 p.m. at Allen Unique Autos Museum, 2285 River Road in Grand Junction. Admission is free. For more information, call 263-7410.

August 7

Field Dressing Big Game class With the big game hunting season approaching, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will offer a free seminar from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. to teach novice hunters how to care for their harvested animal from the field to the table. Colorado hunting regulations require that all big game animals be prepared for human consumption as soon as possible. Topics include field dressing, proper skinning for mounting, deboning, quartering,

the best cuts for table fare and suggestions for transporting meat out of the field. Class takes place at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Regional Office, 711 Independent Ave. Space is limited and registration is required.

Register by calling 255-6100.

August 8

Changing Landscapes of Science This month’s topic is “Tour of the Known Universe Through the Hubble Telescope.” Lecture is at 7 p.m. at the Whitman Educational Center, 248 S. Fourth St. Cost is $5 for members of the Museum of Western Colorado or the John McConnell Math and Science Center, and $10 for nonmembers. For details, call 242-0971.

August 8-11

Tibetan Monks at the Art Center The Art Center is excited to host a visit by the Tibetan monks from the Gaden Shartse Monastery. The visiting monks will create the Mandala of

August 2013

Manjushri at The Art Center. Gaden Shartse monks have toured the U.S. since 1992 to spread peace, harmony and compassion while raising funds for education, maintenance, housing and the medical needs of their monastery in Mundgod, India. Come by and see the monks for free between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For details, call 2437337 or visit www.gjartcenter.org.

It’s peach mania. Great food, entertainment, contests, activities and opportunities to explore Palisade are all what’s in store at the Palisade Peach Festival at Riverbend Park in Palisade.

For a schedule of events and ticket prices, visit www.palisadepeachfest. com or call 464-7458.

August 14-16

This tour will explore some of the fascinating stories, colorful characters and beautiful buildings of downtown Grand Junction. Tour starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Museum of the West, 462 Ute Ave. Cost is $5. No registration required.

Tracks & Bones Expedition This expedition hosted by Dinosaur Journey Museum in Fruita is an introduction to geology and paleontology with a little variety. See dinosaur tracks, excavate dinosaurs and tour the area’s geology on a raft trip. Cost is $699 per person, which includes transportation from Dinosaur Journey Museum in Fruita, lunches, one dinner, raft trip, tours and instruction. For more information or to register, call 858-7282 or visit www. museumofwesternco.com. This trip will be repeated August 28-30.

August 15-18

Palisade Peach Festival

August 16

Downtown Walking Tour

August 17

Aloha Sunset Dance Enjoy good food, a cash bar, live music and lots of fun at A Taste of Heaven Catering, 2817 North Ave. Doors open at 7 p.m. with music by the JLJR band from 8 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are $30 per person and include Hawaiian appetizers, iced tea and lemonade. Proceeds benefit Sacred Heart Church, 433 E. Aspen St. in Fruita. Tickets can be purchased by calling 858-9605 or 243-9400.

August 23 & 24

Peach Promenade Square Dance The 45th annual Peach Promenade Square Dance will be held at Mount Garfield Middle School, 3475 Front St. in Clifton, from 7:15 p.m.-10 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m., then

Imagine & Topaze Our beautiful, loving, 3-year-old shelties (brothers) Imagine & Topaze −Ron & Rose Black

August 2013

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7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call 434-3543.

August 25

Free Day at the Monument

by August 12. Cost is $19 to compete in many competitions. For more information, call 254-3866.

August 27

Explore the wonders of Colorado National Monument without paying an admission fee during the National Park Service fee-free day, which celebrates the NPS’ birthday!

August 25

Tour of the Valley Cyclists who have enjoyed Community Hospital’s Tour of the Valley over the past 24 years know what spectacular cycling the Grand Valley offers. Do you want to cross something off your bucket list? This 100-mile route will once again include the ride across the Colorado National Monument along the spectacular Rim Rock Drive. The race begins and ends at the DoubleTree Hotel, 743 Horizon Drive. Registration is $45. For more information, visit www.yourcommu nityhospital.com or call 242-0920.

August 26-30

Western Colorado Senior Games The 12th annual Western Colorado Senior Games is for anyone 50 years and older as of August 16, 2013. Compete in track and field, swimming, pool, golf, 5K running or walking, bowling, cards, dance, horseshoes, bocce ball, pickleball and more.

Registration forms available at www. gjcity.org or the Parks and Recreation office, 1340 Gunnison Ave. Register

Senior Scholar Training Class RSVP needs people age 55 and older to help children succeed in school and in life. Become a Senior Scholar volunteer and become an important partner in the lives of children. All you need is the desire to help kids and the commitment to serve at least two hours a week. Background check required. Attend this free, half-day training session from 8 a.m. to noon or attend the next one on September 12. To register, call 243-9839.

August 31-September 1

Western Colorado Classic Hilltop Community Resources’ annual fundraiser will be held 9 a.m.4 p.m. both days at Canyon View Park. Proceeds benefit Hilltop’s 26 important programs that provide care for children and adults of all ages.

The event includes over 500 cars, trucks, motorcycles and tractors.

Food, beverages, live music, entertainment, drawings and more ensure a fun-filled weekend. There will be a welcome reception on Friday at Allen Unique Auto Museum, a dinner on Saturday and go-kart racing at Grand Junction Motor Speedway on Sunday. On Monday, join in the cruise to Gateway Canyons Auto Museum. For details, call 244-0439 or visit www. westerncoloradoclassic.com. ■

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August 2013 Activity Schedule

“Young-at-heart adults getting together for fun and friendship!”

Friday Afternoon Club meets at 5 p.m. Fridays in the lounge at The Doubletree Hotel, 743 Horizon Drive. The first FAC meeting of the month is our business meeting. Call Janice Koppang at 261-9114 or 433-7108 for details.

Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. - Join us for Early Start Breakfast at Denny’s on Horizon Drive.

Call Debbie Grose at 245-4995 for details. Visitors are welcome.

Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m. - Dine out at the following locations every week. Visitors are welcome. Call Debbie Grose at 245-4995 for details.

August 7 - Fiesta Guadalajara, 710 North Ave. August 14 - Chili’s, 584 24 1/2 Road August 21 - Rib City Grill, 2830 North Ave. August 28 – Johnny Carino’s Italian Restaurant, 2480 U.S. Hwy 6 & 50 Saturdays at 9 a.m. - Meet at Albertson’s on the Redlands for a leisurely bicycle ride along the Colorado River Trail. RSVP to Bob Lewis at 263-8482.

Sundays at 12:30 p.m. - It’s Bowling Sunday followed by card games at Orchard Mesa Lanes, 295 27 Road. RSVP to Bob Lewis at 263-8462.

Saturday, August 3 - Play billiards at noon at Bank 8 Billiards, 2460 Patterson Road, #3. Call Mary Wynn at 255-7370.

Friday, August 9 - Meet at Fruita State Park at 5:30 p.m. for a potluck and concert.

Bring a covered dish and your drinks. RCS has two camping spaces. Space numbers to be announced at the FAC. Call Ed Haynes at 243-1609.

Saturday, August 24 - Trip to Telluride. Call Ed Haynes at 243-1609 for details.

36 Mesa county

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Mesa County Beacon Bits Compiled by Cloie Sandlin

Weight loss surgery seminar Attend a free education session presented by the staff of St. Mary’s Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center. Learn how the different types of surgery work, who qualifies, and how St. Mary’s will support you as you change your life. Seminars take place at St. Mary’s Life Center, 2686 Patterson Road.

• August 7 – Noon to 1:30 p.m.

• August 21 – 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

Grant opportunity for artists Applications are available until September 6 for artists in six Western Slope counties (Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Garfield, Gunnison, Hinsdale).

The grant provides funds for art supplies, tools, workshops, consultants, technology and more. Funds must be used in 2014. There will be a free proposal writing workshop

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1005 North 12th Street, Suite 211 Grand Junction, CO 81501

970.261.8368

from 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. on August 21. To obtain an application and for class information, call 640-8177, visit www.artspacecolorado.org, or email artspaceopenstudios@gmail.com.

Riverfront Concert Series This long-running concert series is an important funding source for the Riverfront Foundation to continue public trail construction projects along the Colorado River between Palisade and Fruita. Concerts take place at James M. Robb Colorado River State Park in Fruita. Tickets are available at www.ticketswest.com and at City Market stores. Kicking off the season is The Infamous Stringdusters on August 1. August 2 brings back-to-back shows featuring Shemekia Copeland and Asleep at the Wheel. Poco will wrap up the concert series August 16.

Support groups • Mending Hearts Support Group is for any adult who has experienced

the death of a loved one. This group meets from 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Miller Homestead, 3090 N. 12th St. Call Paul at 683-3202 for details.

• Caregiver Connections is open to all caregivers. This group meets from 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Miller Homestead, 3090 N. 12th St. Call Terry at 260-8931 for details.

• MACHO Men, a cancer support group, meets at 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at St. Mary’s Hospital’s Java City Café. For details call 298-2351.

• St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. on the third Friday of each month in the Grand Mesa Room of St. Mary’s Life Center, 2686 Patterson Road. Call 298-1929 for details.

• GriefShare is a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those mourning the death of a loved one.

Choose from two different times: 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Mondays or 6:30 p.m.8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. For details, call Vicci Hofmann at 778-1599.

August 2013

Volunteer opportunities • RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer positions in any of our member agencies. For a list of volunteer opportunities and to register, call 243-9839.

• Mesa County SOS (Serving Our Seniors) needs volunteer drivers to give seniors rides to grocery shopping, pharmacy and medical visits once a week. Must be 25 or older and pass a background check. SOS will reimburse for mileage. Call 248-2746.

• Hospice & Palliative Care is seeking volunteers for a variety of positions. Call Diane at 257-2378.

• Operation Interdependence needs volunteers to write notes for the troops, help collect products and pack civilian rations. Call 523-4217.

• Gray Gourmet needs several adult volunteers to deliver a weekday lunch to homebound seniors in the Grand Valley. Volunteers are also needed to work at one of our senior dining sites one day per week. Call 243-9844.

• Harden Hospice needs volunteers to help patients tell their life stories.

Training is provided. Call 210-5912.

• St. Mary’s Senior Companion Program needs volunteers to provide companionship and assistance to a senior in need. Call Tamara at 263-9092.

Club activities • Friendship Force meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Community Hospital’s lower conference room. For details, call 260-4653 or visit www. thefriendshipforce.org.

• Vestafjell Lodge, Sons of Norway will celebrate Viking Day at 2 p.m.

August 11 at Hawthorn Park, located at the corner of Fifth Street and Gunnison Avenue in Grand Junction.

There will be a presentation and meal. Bring a side dish to share. Call 245-5649 or 242-3396 or visit www. vestafjelllodge.org.

• Western Slope Coin Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the VFW Post 1247, 1404 Ute Ave. Get a free coin/ currency evaluation before the meet-

August 2013 ing at 5:30 p.m. Call 241-1770 or visit ww.gjcoinshow.com.

• Talk of the Town Toastmasters invite you to join their weekly Thursday meetings from noon to 1 p.m. at the Business Incubator. Call 244-1625.

• Grand Valley Knights is a group of auto enthusiasts that meet every Saturday from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. at Spoons Bistro and Bakery with their sport and classic vehicles.

Call 462-6762 or visit www.grand valleyknights.com.

• Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Commons of Hilltop and at noon on the fourth Wednesday of the month (bring a lunch) at the Museum of Western Colorado. A help session is at 1 p.m. on the first Friday of the month at one of the Mesa County libraries. Call 245-5312.

• Mesa County Republican Women meet from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on August 5 at Two Rivers Convention Center. State Representative Ray Scott will speak. Lunch is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

RSVP to 434-9378.

• Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Thursdays at the Masonic Lodge. Call 261-1670.

• Happy Feet Rounds meets at the Masonic Lodge on Sundays for a variety of dancing, including waltz, rumba, cha-cha and more. Beginners are welcome from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. and intermediate dancers are welcome from 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Call 243-5858.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com • Stamp Collectors meet the second Wednesday at White Star Electric at 7 p.m. Call 986-1502.

• Western Slope Non-Smoking Singles has potlucks on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 6 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church.

They have dinner on the third Wednesday of the month and have monthly outings. Call 434-5277.

• Mesa Fiberarts Guild meets at noon the first Wednesday of the month at First Presbyterian Church, and at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the City Clerk’s Office break room. Call 245-9469 or visit www.mesafiberartsguild.org.

• Blue Lodge Masons meet at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at the Masonic Lodge. Call 245-5312.

• Grand Mesa Back Country Horsemen meet at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of the month. For location and details, call 242-8860.

• Grand Junction Christian Women’s Network meets at 12:15 p.m. for a luncheon at The Clarion Inn on August 8. Cost is $14. RSVP by August 3.

Call 424-0464.

• Post 2009, American Legion meets at 5:30 p.m. for dinner at The Atrium of the Grand Valley with a meeting to follow. All honorably discharged veterans are welcome to join. ■

• Grand Valley Woodcarvers Club meets from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month and from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays at the Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or 523-5965.

• Levis & Lace Square Dance Club hosts square dances from 7 p.m.9:30 p.m. every Friday at the Masonic Lodge. Call 216-8503 or 434-6541.

• Art Jewelers’ Guild meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Grandview Apartments, 1501 N. First St. Call 243-1220.

Skye My boyfriend bought an ugly sweater for a holiday party and put it on our poor Skye.

But she sure looks funny! −Cloie Sandlin

Mesa county 37

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38 Delta/ Montrose counties

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

August 2013

Falkenhof canines “There are no bad dogs, just bad and often irresponsible pet owners,” f you are thinking of getting a new she said. dog or already have one that you Her classes are offered at different would like to train, Marion Lewis, owner of Falkenhof Canines in Delta, levels, depending on the age of the dog. The basic obedience session for is here to help. dogs 4 months and up lasts 10 weeks, “I have been retired since 2002,” with homework sheets assigned each Lewis said. “But because this is my week. passion, I can’t stop, so I was back at Lewis aims to make her classes fun it again in 2003.” for both dogs and their owners.

Lewis grew up in Germany where “I like to see the people and their she learned to train dogs from pets succeed and don’t want them to watching her grandfather train his feel like they failed,” she said. “But it German shepherds. Lewis moved to is not magic to America and come to class began workonce a week. ing with dogs One has to go on her own. home and train While breeding, showing with their dog her dogs in the at least five breed ring and days a week, earning obedifollowing my ence and chaminstructions on pion titles with the homework her rottweilers sheets.” for many years, Lewis beshe decided to lieves that Lewis with her dogs. From left: Moni, Sabrina and open Falkenanimal shelter hof Kennels & Akira, and her husband’s dog, Jake. dogs can be Training Center in Wisconsin. rehabilitated, when matched with the She taught pet owners what she right owner. had learned through her many “I feel like on many occasions I years of training under some of the speak up for dogs, because they cantop trainers in the country, attendnot speak for themselves,” she said. ing training seminars and training Lewis said that before people adopt schools. Her parade drill team also a dog, they should educate themexhibited in surrounding towns selves on the breed and see if it fits what her students and their dogs had their lifestyle. learned under her instruction. She “We live in a disposable society,” moved to Colorado in 2002 and conLewis said. “Dogs are not a piece of tinued her passion of teaching dog furniture, but living and breathing training classes. creatures with feelings.”

Students come from all over westLewis said the most rewarding part ern Colorado to learn at Falkenhof of working with so many dogs is to Canines, located at 51511 Amber Road in Delta. Lewis’ clients vary in age, but see people apply what they learn from her classes and turn their pet a good number of them are seniors. into a Canine Good Citizen, an of“They prefer the fact that I offer ficial title from the American Kennel daytime classes in addition to eveClub (AKC). ning classes, so they do not have to Visitors are welcome to observe a drive at night,” Lewis said. training class. For more information, Lewis’ philosophy on training is call Lewis at 240‑0263 or visit www. that she rehabilitates dogs and trains delta‑dogtraining.com. ■ the owners.

By Liesl Greathouse

I

Bogart Bogart, the BEACON mascot, is a 4-year-old St. Bernard/Pyrenees mix that loves to model for BEACON photo shoots. He’ll do anything for treats. −Heidi Graf

Montrose-Delta Senior Fair

availaBle [ Booths Call 243-8829 ]

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MONTROSE ORAL SURGERY AND DENTAL IMPLANT SPECIALISTS • Specialist Implant Surgeons with Advanced Training • Most experienced implant team in our area • Implants for denture stability & implants for individual tooth replacement • Do your surgery asleep or awake • We work with your general dentist • Conventional, Mini & Orthodontic Implants Craig T. Cayo D.D.S., Dorcha W. Boisen D.D.S.

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August 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Delta/ Montrose counties 39

Delta/Montrose Calendar Compiled by Liesl Greathouse August 1

Emmaus potluck and Taize service Attend an Emmaus potluck at 5:45 p.m. at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave. Emmaus is a three-day retreat to develop disciples in the church and community. After the potluck, attend a Taize service, a nondenominational meditative service combining music, scripture and prayer. Childcare is available.

For details, call 249-3716.

August 8

AARP Driver Safety Course Montrose County Health and Human Services will host the AARP Driver Safety Program from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at 1845 S. Townsend Ave. Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws in this half-day course.

Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers. Preregistration required. Contact Amy at 275-5251.

August 9

Senior CommUnity Care anniversary Come celebrate five years of service in Delta and Montrose with Senior CommUnity Care at 3 p.m. at Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive.

There will be tours, guest speakers and food. For details, call 640-1726.

August 10 & 24

Dances at the Montrose Pavilion The Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive from 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. On August 10, there will be music by the Jim Estle Band, and on August 24, there will be music by Ric and Karen. Admission is $5. For more information, call 252-7172.

August 16-18

Montrose Rod & Gun Club Show The show will take place 5 p.m.9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday at the Montrose County Fairgrounds, 1001 N. Second St. Admission is $5. For more information, call 249-9008.

August 16-18

Food Farm Film Wine Festival The festival in Paonia features timely

food documentary films, tours of organic farms and wineries, and events to highlight the fresh, organic food being produced in the valley. Local chefs will pair with farms to create appetizer tastings on Friday before the film, a farm-to-table dinner will be served on Saturday, and a Sunday brunch will be at a local farm. Proceeds go to Western Slope Conservation Center and Citizens for a Healthy Community. Tickets are available for daily events or the whole weekend.

For details, call 527-8928 or visit www.slowfoodwesternslope.org.

August 16-18

Gunnison Car Show Get out the Brylcreem and poodle skirt and head to Gunnison to see over 400 classic, vintage and antique cars in mint condition all weekend long. Friday’s Cruise-In takes place on Main Street from 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

The car show is at 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at Jorgensen Park. On Sunday, cruise to Crested Butte for breakfast. Caravan leaves at 8 a.m. Cars in the Stars will be held Saturday night at the Gunnison Valley Observatory. For details, call 641-2249 or visit www.gunnison carclub.com.

August 24

Hospice and Palliative Care gala Now called HopeWest, Hospice’s annual fundraising gala will be held from 6 p.m.-11 p.m. at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 530 Gunnison River Drive in Delta. There will be a live auction, silent auction, sit-down catered dinner and dancing to live music. Tickets are $100. For details, contact Lynn at 874-6823.

August 24

Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraiser The 1-Mile Walk and 5K Run/Walk fundraiser for the Western Slope Alzheimer’s Association includes entertainment, a pancake breakfast and fellowship. Begins at 8:30 a.m. at Sunrise Creek Senior Living Community, 1868 Sunrise Drive in Montrose.

Donations accepted and benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. For more information, call 240-0600. ■

Dr. Dan

Hatch

Se Habla Español

• Implants • Extractions • Tooth Colored Fillings • Crowns (Caps) & Veneers • Dentures • Root Canals• Wisdom Teeth • Periodontal Surgeries (Gum Grafts) • Tooth Whitening (Bleaching) • Nitrous (Laughing Gas)

www.danielhatchdds.com

(970) 249-4301

1127 East Main Street • Montrose, Colorado 81401 mon

- fri 8am - 8 pm|Sat 8am - 4 pm Sun noon - 4 pm

There when you need them the most Minor Injuries & illness Colds, Flu, & Allergies Sports, DOT & employment physicals.

Lacerations & Fracture Care Terry S. Wade D.O. Barbara Budagher P.A.-C Chris Palsley P.A.-C 836 S. townSend, montroSe next to eldorado bakery

249-2118

40 Delta/ Montrose counties

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Delta/Montrose Beacon Bits Compiled by Liesl Greathouse

2:30 p.m.-3 p.m. every Thursday.

Events for veterans

• The public is invited to eagle head cane presentations at 1 p.m. the first Thursday of every month. Beautiful eagle head canes, created by Black Canyon Wood Carvers and Wood Workers Guild of Western Colorado, are presented to veterans.

The Warrior Resource Center, 11 South Park in Montrose, has the following events scheduled for veterans in August. If you have not registered with the Warrior Resource Center as a veteran, please bring a form of military ID with you. For more information, please call 765-2210.

• All veterans are invited for coffee from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. every Thursday.

• All military spouses (of any branch or era) are invited for coffee from

Support Groups • Veterans PTSD support group meets at 10 a.m., Thursdays at the Montrose Workforce Center, 504 N. First St. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214 as verification of eligibility of services. Call 245-4156.

August 2013

• Stroke Support Group meets 11 a.m. to noon, twice a month, at Montrose Memorial Hospital’s Acute Rehab Unit. For more information and meeting days, call Tim Ramsey at 318-2028.

• Mending Hearts Support Group is open to adults who have experienced the death of a loved one.

• Delta group meets at 6 p.m.7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado, 195 Stafford Lane. Call 874-6823.

• Montrose group meets at 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Mondays and 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursdays at the Bosom Buddies Room, 645 S. Fifth St. Call 252-2520.

• Cedaredge group meets at 2 p.m.

Tuesdays at the Cedaredge Public Library, 180 S.W. Sixth Ave.

We offer independent senior and family housing, home health services, meals programs, in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation, respite care, skilled nursing care, memory care,and assisted living.

Senior Housing Grand View Meadowlark Court Grand Junction, CO Montrose, CO 970-256-9904 970-252-8272 Centennial Towers Montrose, CO 970-240-0110 Home Health of Western Colorado Skilled Nursing and Therapy Services (970) 240-0139

Cimarron Village Montrose, CO 970-249-2010

Heavens View Delta, CO 970-874-5021 Family Housing Pavilion Gardens Montrose, CO 970-249-1200

Valley Manor The Homestead Care Center at Montrose Assisted Living, Respite Skilled Nursing Care, Memory Care, Care, Adult Day Program Respite Care (970) 252-9359 (970) 249-9634 Horizons Healthcare & Retirement Community Senior Montrose Skilled Nursing Care, CommUnity Meals Rehabilitation Center Memory Care, A community based Inpatient/Outpatient Respite Care, Meal Program Rehabilitation Rehabilitation (970) 835-8028 (970) 249-9634 (970) 835-3113 Senior CommUnity Care – PACE A program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (970) 252-0522

• Hotchkiss group meets at 1 p.m.2:30 p.m. Mondays at First Baptist Church, 203 W. Main St.

Volunteer Opportunities • Harden Hospice in Montrose is

seeking volunteers to help their patients tell their life stories. For more information, call 275-6064.

• Hospice & Palliative Care in Delta and Montrose is seeking volunteers for a variety of positions. In Delta, call 874-6823. In Montrose, call 252-2642.

• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) needs volunteers to be advocates for children. In Delta, call 874-7730. In Montrose, call 249-0337.

Pickin’ in the Park summer concert series This free concert series in Paonia starts August 1. Performances are from 6 p.m. until dark on every Thursday in August. Shows are family-friendly with on-site kids’ activities and local food, beer and wine for adults. Headliner lineup features Amy Helm, Bradford Lee Folk & The Bluegrass Playboys, Atomga, and The Birds of Chicago. For details, call 260-6493 or visit www.pickinproduc tions.com.

Quality Care with a compassionate touch Paonia Care and rehabilitation Center 1625 Meadowbrook blvd • Paonia, Co Hospice • Respite Care • 24 Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Medicare/Medicaid Certified Transportation to & from Appointments • Respiratory Services Available as Needed • Dedicated Rooms for Rehabilitations and Recoveries • Long Term Care and Private Rooms Available • Basic Cable Service Provided to our Clients • All Qualified Insurances Accepted Medicare • Medicaid • HMO • Private • PACE • UMWA • Hospice Respite Care • VA We Accept MC & Visa Credit Cards

970-527-4837 www.PCrC.web.officelive.com

August 2013

Nominations sought for community leaders The League of Women Voters of Montrose County is seeking nominations for its Making Democracy Work Award. Nominations are open to any Montrose County resident who is or has recently taken a leadership role and has mobilized others to make her/his community a stronger, vibrant and fair place to live. Nomination forms can be downloaded at www.montrose.co.lwvnet.org and must be received by August 19. Mail forms to P.O. Box 3321, Montrose, CO 81402. For details, call Karen at 275-1314.

Delta Senior Activities The following activities are offered at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 530 Gunnison River Drive in Delta. To register for any of the following activities or for a full list, call 874-0923.

• Community Evening Dances, 7 p.m.-10 p.m., third Saturday of each month. Cost is $4. Bring a snack to share.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Montrose Senior Activities The Montrose Recreation District has the following activities scheduled for seniors 50 and older in August.

Register one week ahead. Events take place at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive, or transportation departs from the Montrose Pavilion.

Please arrive at each event at least 15 minutes early. For details on the following activities, call 252-4884.

• Jeep Tour at Imogene Pass, 8 a.m.-3 p.m, August 8. Cost is $70.

Bring a sack lunch and water.

• North Fork Valley Tour, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., August 13 and 15 (same tour repeats). Cost is $18.

Bring a sack lunch.

• San Juan Chamber Musicfest, 10:45 a.m.-5 p.m., August 25. Cost is $18. Bring money for lunch and donation for concert. ■ If you have an event or photo you would like to have appear in the Beacon, send it to: beacon@pen dantpublishing.com.

Delta/ Montrose counties 41

Booths availaBle Montrose-Delta

september 19, 2013 Montrose Pavilion, Montrose

Prize Giveaways Informational Booths Live Entertainment All Day 

Yes, please send me free information on being an exhibitor at BeaconFest.

company contact address state zip

city phone

fax

e- mail product category

Phone: 243-8829 Fax: 1-800- 536-7516

Mail: P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

Custom Engraved:

Home appointments available

• Headstones • Stone Signs • Address Rocks • Sandblasting • River Rocks • Gifts & More

970-323-6658

Please call for an appointment

www.facebook.com/ MorrisMonument

morrismonument.com

1630 South Main Street, Delta

Life’s Legacy in Stone

42 Garfield county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Garfield County Calendar

IT’S YOUR CHOICE. CHOOSE THE BEST.

Compiled by Cheryl Currier August 5 WATER

WIND

Art After Hours: watercolor

FIRE

HAIL

MOLD

ASBESTOS

BIOHAZARD

HAZMAT

Join Jennifer Dubois as she guides you in a watercolor art project at the Old Stone House Gallery, 1100 E. 16th St. in Rifle. Class is from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. All supplies are included in the $25 fee for members and $30 for nonmembers. Call Betsy at 379-3842 to reserve a spot.

970.945.4407

24 7

E M E R G E N C Y

R E S P O N S E

Attention

BEACON Advertisers

s Health & Wellnes

fall 2012

1.

hurt more?

Why do women and gender Pain differences

page 2

BEACON’s Produced by the Advertising Team

Bod y H eal t hy Mind & Your Guid e to a

at Now on the web s.com www.BeaconSeniorNew

In a recent study of today’s active, affluent and aging adults, a healthy mind and body was cited as the topic of most interest to them. Because of our readers’ keen interest in health and wellness, we have committed to publish this special insert three times a year (Jan., May, Sept.) with ads and articles created around you and your business.

Advertising Deadline: August 20, 2013 Publication Date: September 3, 2013

2.

Active, aging Americans are the most affluent market in the United States. Boomers and seniors control 70% of the total net worth of all U.S. households. As these generations pass they will be responsible for the largest transfer of wealth in human history. They’ll need a lot of advice.

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William Kain little-known and the estate planning advice on why experts at Kain you should start plann & Burke, PC give grea ing today. t,

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Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNew

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Ve te ra ns Veteran’s vision enhanced by blindness

page 2

Some gave all, but all gave some: the price of freedom remains high page 6

Many veterans such as Harvey Haats relinquished the pleasures of home to protect our freedom.

Produced by the BeacoN’s advertising Team

Sto r i e s t hat hono r A m er ic a’s H ero e s

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

This Veterans Day, we’d like to profile some of the amazing men and women who have, so selflessly, served our country in this special insert in the November issue of the BEACON. In addition, we’ll be making copies available to local schools, the VA Hospital and the parade. Your sponsorship makes this possible.

Advertising Deadline: October 20, 2013 Publication Date: October 28, 2013

Call for information 970

August 5-11

Garfield County Fair The Garfield County Fair and Rodeo is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

The theme of the fair is “Celebrating the Past, Building the Future.” Featured events at the Garfield County Fairgrounds, 1001 Railroad Ave in Rifle, include Professional Bull Riding Rodeo, Fiesta Day, CPRA Rodeo, Demolition Derby, and live music by the Charlie Daniels Band and Jack Ingram. The parade starts at 10 a.m. on August 10 and takes place on Railroad Avenue from Third Street to 16th Street. For a complete schedule of events, times and more information, visit www.garfieldcountyfair. com or call 625-2514.

August 9

Movie Under the Stars

Produced by the BEACON‘s Advertising Team

3.

August 2013

243-8829

The Grand Valley Recreation Center, 398 Arroyo Drive in Parachute, is sponsoring an outdoor movie at dusk.

Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy “The Avengers.” This event is free. For more information, call 285-9480.

August 18

Barbecue cook-off The IOOF Bookcliff Lodge #45 is sponsoring a barbecue cook-off.

Individuals and businesses are invited to fire up their grills, smokers or slow cookers at 1 p.m. at Centennial Park, 300 W. Fifth St. in Rifle. First, second and third place winners will be awarded in the beef, chicken and

pork categories. Judging starts at 4 p.m. and winners will be announced at 5:45 p.m. Entry forms available by calling 456-8009 or download a form (link at bottom of the page) at www. rifleco.org/index.aspx?NID=384 August 19

Art After Hours: pastels Betsy Blackard will lead an exploration of pastels in this ongoing series of classes from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. at the Old Stone House Gallery, 1100 E. 16th St. in Rifle. All supplies are included in the $25 fee for members and $30 for nonmembers. Call Betsy at 379-3842 to reserve a spot.

August 22

Food for Thought Book Club in Parachute Do you love browsing through cookbooks and trying new techniques?

Then hang on to your spatula! The Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, is happy to introduce its newest book club, Food for Thought.

We pick the cookbook and you choose a recipe to make. The Food for Thought club will also meet on September 26 and October 24.

Meetings are at 6 p.m. Reservation required. Stop in or contact the Parachute Branch Library at 285-9870.

August 24

Pig roast

Colorado River Fire Rescue, formerly known as Burning Mountain Fire Protection District, will host its annual pig roast at the Stoney Ridge Pavilion in Silt from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Enjoy a free concert, a beer and wine garden, and the best roasted pig on the Western Slope. Proceeds go to the CRFR scholarship fund.

August 25

Festival Las Americas The festival takes place from 11 a.m.8 p.m. at Sopris Park in Carbondale.

Live entertainment and authentic food. For details, call 309-5169. ■

If you have an event or photo you would like to have appear in the Beacon, send it to: beacon@pendantpublishing.com.

August 2013

Garfield County Beacon Bits Compiled by Cheryl Currier

Universal Class Knowledge is power. Why not learn something new today? The Garfield County Libraries offer Universal Class, a free online learning resource for all library members. Universal Class offers hundreds of online classes taught by dedicated instructors sharing their knowledge on almost any topic imaginable. From technology to business, Universal Class has something for everyone.

Access this digital resource at any Garfield County Library Branch or from www.gcpld.org.

Garfield County Fair and Rodeo The Garfield County Fair and Rodeo takes place August 5-11 at the Garfield County Fairgrounds, 1001 Railroad Ave. in Rifle. The party will be bigger and better as the fair celebrates its 75th anniversary. The theme of the fair is “Celebrating the Past, Building the Future.” Featured events include Professional Bull Riding Rodeo, Fiesta Day, CPRA Rodeo, Demolition Derby, and live music by the Charlie Daniels Band and Jack Ingram. The parade starts at 10 a.m. on August 10 and takes place on Railroad Avenue from Third Street to 16th Street. For a complete schedule of events, times and more information, visit www.garfieldcountyfair. com or call 625-2514.

Traveler provides transportation for seniors The Traveler provides wheelchairaccessible, door-to-door, demandresponsive, driver-assisted transportation to Garfield County residents age 60 and older or to those who are disabled, who have difficulty using public or private transportation because it is unavailable, inaccessible or unaffordable. To schedule a ride on the Traveler, please remember to call at least 24 hours in advance. Parachute to New Castle, call 625-1366 and Glenwood Springs to Carbondale, call 945-9117. Suggested client

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

donation is $2 per ride into town, $3 between towns and $20 for a round trip to Grand Junction, which is offered on the second Thursday of the month. Schedule trips to Glenwood Springs every Thursday for doctor visits, shopping or visiting. Call 6251366 to schedule your ride 48 hours in advance. Suggested donation is $8 for the round trip. Please schedule doctor appointments between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Subscribe to September 2012 Vol. 26

Centennial Park Concert Series The concert series continues Sundays in August at Centennial Park, 300 W. Fifth St. in Rifle. All concerts are free and take place from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

Upcoming performers are: • August 4 - The Country Music Project • August 11 - Lever Action • August 18 - Tree Line

Carbondale Wild West Rodeo Come to the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo every Thursday through August 22. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Admission is $10. The rodeo takes place at the Gus Darien Riding Arena, County Road 100 (Catherine’s Store).

Bring your own picnic dinner or enjoy Big Mamma’s Catering. For more information, call 379-3907 or visit www.carbondalerodeo.com. ■

ly Newsp Western Colorado’s Month

differently?

Find out in our Health & Wellness insert.

more?

Why do women hurtgender Pain and differences2 page

t hy Mind & Bod y Your Guid e to a H eal

Produced by the BEACON’s Advertising Team

No. 9

aper for Adults 50+. Over

the Beacon

31,510 Readers.

Why do men and women experience pain

Health &Wellness

fall 2012

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Boom ers october 2012

What’s Inside ........... 7 Advice and Ideas ................. .. 40 Classifieds .................................. .. 29 Crossword .................................. 35 Delta/Montrose County ................ 26 .......

Finance ..................................

38 ............

Garfield County ................. ........ 10 Health & Wellness................. ........ 16 Laughing Matters ................. ... 20 Local Lore .................................. 30 Mesa County................................. 22 ......

Parks & Recreation ................. ... 31 River City Singles....................... 18 .....

Travel & Recreation .................

page 2

and the ir bikes

Trivia question:

Is this photo of Colorado or Alaska?

William Kain and the little-known advice estate planning experts at Kain & Burke, on why you should start planning today. PC give great, Produced by the BEACON‘s Advertising Team

Your Guide to Year End Financial Planning

2012 is the year for estate planning. Find out why in our Financial Planning insert.

Zippity Do Dogs

Western Colorado’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 31,510 Readers.

August 2011

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

What’s Inside Advice and Ideas ............................ 9 Classifieds .................................... 44 Crossword .................................... 40 Delta/Montrose County ................ 36 Gardening ..................................... 28 Garfield County ............................. 41 Health & Wellness......................... 10 Laughing Matters ......................... 18 Local Lore ..................................... 22 Mesa County................................. 32 Parks & Recreation ....................... 17 River City Singles.......................... 33 Travel & Recreation ...................... 20

Blacksmiths have a rich history in the Grand Valley. Story page 20.

No. 8

Give a pet a home! Adopt a furry friend from Roice-Hurst.

Read more on page 26.

Western Colorado ’s Monthly Newspap

er for Adults 50+

. Over 30,450 Read

ers.

wi t h Terry

What’s Inside

Advice and Ideas ...............................

Classifieds ............

9 ...........................

36 Crossword ............ ...........................

35 Delta/Montrose County ...................

32 Faith Moves ............ ...........................

Fruita ........................

7 ............ ...........

22 Garfield County............ ....................34 Health & Wellnes s ........................ ... 10 Kvetch ........................ ...................... 38 Laughing Matters ............................

14 Local Lore ............ ............................

20 Mesa County............ ........................ 28 River City Singles ............................

29 Travel & Recreat ion ........................ . 16

Read about how one local man keeps the blacksmith’s trade alive in the Grand Valley. Story on page 22.

Summer down under

Vol. 25

Travel the world

Local Lore

This fun club promotes agility training for both dogs and their owners. Story page 9.

A Montrose woman crossed off an item from her bucket list when she visited Brisbane, Australia.

Story page 18.

Vol. 26 No. 10

How do Alaskan trust laws benefit your Colorado estate planning?

Local Lore

New writers group in Carbondale The new Carbondale Branch Library Writers’ Group meets monthly to provide a supportive environment for writers of all genres and experience levels. Attendees will have the opportunity to share and explore their own writing, their peers’ writing, and writing in general. The group’s first meeting will be at 6 p.m. August 12. If you would like to read aloud something you’ve written and receive feedback, please email your work to Sue at sschnitzer@gcpld.org by noon on August 12, so copies can be made.

Feel free to bring a snack. For more information, call the Carbondale Branch Library at 963-2889.

Garfield county 43

Pickled pink

Some friends have scales

These seniors are competitive but enjoy helping people

of the open learn the of the freedom ce game Experien pickleball. Story it all go!” and what it’s likeonto “let

Read about how this small reptile made an impact on one Montrose couple’s lives.

road

page 6.

Photo by Heidi Graf

Cruise to Alaska Join the BEACON staff on our first reader cruise to Alaska. Read about what wonders await. Story on page 20.

Local Lore

The library has had many faces and has been many places.

Read more about its 110-year history Terry Eakle has led so many tours, she can’t keep track. inside Atthis 72,issue.

traveling keeps her and her many repeat travelers active and loving life. Where will she go next?

Long-Term Care

Long-Term Care

Family moments such as Pirate Day at Eagle Ridge of the Grand Valley impact quality of life more than anything else. With a staff like this to care for you, long-term care may not seem so bad afterall.

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Your Guide to Senior Housing & Long Term Care

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

What everyone needs to know about long-term care. Read more in this month’s special insert.

Photo submitted by Terry Eakle

Birds of a feather

Come with us as we take a close r look at local peopl and their pets.

From e exotic birds above everyday “pound puppies” to the .

Mail form with check to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

Photo by Heidi

Graf

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Garfield County Seniors are reading the BEACON. Shouldn’t your ad be here?

Call Cheryl Currier for ad rates.

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beacon, po box 3895, Grand Junction, Co 81502 fax: 1 800 536-7516 email: beacon@pendantpublishing.com

name ..................................................................................................................... address ................................................................................................................. city............................................................ state .................. zip ............................. telephone number .....................................................................

queStionS? Call Lisa M-TH, 9a.m.-4p.m., 970 243-8829 www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

nellie Bechtel senior apartments 245-1712 • 3032 North 15th Street Duplex For Rent Ideal Redlands neighborhood. Large 2 bedroom, 1 bath 1 car unit. 1 w/ fireplace, sparkling clean, ample parking. $925 & $975 deposit. 1 year senior discount. 241-4129.

Real Estate for Sale Picture Ranch 55+ Community 2009 mobile home in Picture Ranch, a 55+ community at E Rd and 32 1/2 Rd. Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Front deck has railing and access from 2 doors. All appliances and some furniture included. Only $39,900. Lot rent in the park is $355 a month, which includes household water, sewer, trash and irrigation water. Pets allowed. MLS #664997.

Davienne Jacobson, Bray Real Estate, 773-6565.

Hickory Crest 55+ Community In Columbia, MD. 1 bedroom, den, 1.5 bath, wood floors. Close to Lorian/Hospital. $320,000. LongnandFoster Realtors. 410-730-9573/ 410-730-3456. Ann Detraglia.

Home Services Professional Tile Installer Insured and bonded. You purchase tile, I provide everything else.

Special discounts. Call Bill for a free estimate. 245-3344.

Reliable Estate Sales Are you in the midst of a stressful relocation or passing of a loved one?

Let us handle the burden of personal property liquidation from start to finish. Contact Mark Bluhm at 260-2327, cash4@bresnan.net or www.reliableestatesales.net.

August 2013 Accessibility Services Grab bars. Walk-in tubs/showers.

Licensed plumber/handyman.

Serving Western Colorado since 1989. Free estimates. Compare and save! 985-1403.

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 30 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-8236.

SCENE CLEARLY, LLC Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter!

Grand Junction area. Call Frank Cordova at 242-1264.

Home Care PASCO/SW, INC.

Skilled and unskilled homemaking and/or personal care. Skilled nursing, specialize in wound care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, CNA, social work, pre-op, post-op services. PASCO/SW carriers certification for Mi, children’s hospice and Tbi waivers.

Please call for courtesy evaluation of your home care needs.

Serving: Archuleta, Delta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel Cortez (970)565-6833; Durango (970) 247-1211; Montrose (970) 240-1771; Toll Free (877) 685-6833

www.pascosw.com

Miscellaneous Services Computer Lady – In-home PC Repair Services Friendly, affordable, easy to understand. Computer not-soliterate my specialty! Cleanups, virus removal, setups, upgrades, instruction, wireless and more. Call Mindy at 255-1216 or 261-3120.

Pet Sitting Services Experienced Pet Sitter Pet sitting services in your home by mature woman. I am an experienced medical pet professional and familiar with special needs of seniors with pets. Please call Diane at 589-9081.

August 2013

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Wanted to Buy CASH Paid for old Stuff Wind up men’s wrist/pocket watches.

Gold and silver jewelry. Pocket/ hunting knives, antique firearms, fishing gear, toys, BB guns, old Colorado bottles, old motorcycles, radios and amp, railroad, military, mining items. www.cash4oldstuff. net. Mark 260-2327.

BUYING BOOKS Nonfiction, history, nature, westerns, religion, antique, reference, etc. Also buying stamp collections. Call Frank at 241-7778. Will pick up.

BUYING COINS AND CURRENCY U.S. Silver Dollars, 90% Silver, Eagles, Krugerrands, Maple Leafs, Gold and Silver Bars, Proof Sets, Mint Sets, Currency, Collections, Hoards, Accumulations of any size.

Call 242-5374.

Good running VEHICLE In good condition, low mileage if possible. 778-9429.

Help Wanted

salesperson needed The BEACON Senior Newspaper is growing and we’re looking for a Delta/ Montrose salesperson to grow with us.

Please send your cover letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com.

writers needed The Beacon Senior newspaper is looking for writers in Mesa, Delta, Montrose and Garfield counties. Please send your cover letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com.

National Classifieds  August 2013 Adoption IS ADOPTION RIGHT FOR YOU? Open or closed adoption. YOU choose the family. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. Call 24/7. 866413-6296. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana Auto Donations DONATE A CAR - HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Nonrunners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408

Auto’s Wanted CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330

CASH PAID- UP TO $28/BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. BEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.

Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com

GET CASH TODAY for any car/truck. I will buy your car today. Any Condition. Call 1-800-864-5796 or www. carbuyguy.com

CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/ Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960

Automobiles $18/Month Auto Insurance Instant Quote – ANY Credit Type Accepted We Find You the BEST Rates In Your Area. Call 1-800-844-8162 now!

Alone? Emergencies Happen! Get Help with one button push! $29.95/month Free equipment, Free set-up. Protection for you or a loved one. Call LifeWatch USA 1-800-375-1464

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CASH PAID- UP TO $28/BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. BEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.

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Pongo & Perdita My lovebirds. −Lauren VanGundy

Homes For Rent Rent To Own Home 3 Beds 2 Baths $70k 300 Per Month Go to www.renttoownzone.net Miscellaneous **OLD GUITARS WANTED! ** Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker.

Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg, and Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1920’s thru 1980’s. TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440

Health/Medical VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg, 40 pills +4 Free only $99.00. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. If you take these, Save $500 now! 1-888796-8870

Here is a picture of my husband Joe and our sweet and sassy dog, Molly Brown. They are seen enjoying the day at Gateway Canyons earlier this year. −Kathy Kimbrough

Help Wanted/Miscellaneous Medical Career: 3-6 months online training: NATIONAL CERTIFICATIONS: Certified Medical Administrative Assistant, Electronic Health Records, Billing/Coding, Pharmacy Technician www.MedCerts. com 800-734-1175 x102. Books/laptop Included

Auto Donations/Car Sales Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help those in need! Your vehicle donation will help US Troops and support our Veterans! 100% tax deductible Fast Free pickup! 1-800-263-4713

Financial Do you receive regular monthly payments from an annuity or insurance settlement and NEED CASH NOW? Call J.G. Wentworth today at 1-800-741-0159.

Molly Brown

Classifieds 45

HELP WANTED!!! $570/ WEEKLY Potential ASSEMBLING CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS from home + MAKE MONEY MAILING BROCHURES or TYPING ADS FOR OUR COMPANY!! www.HelpWantedWork. com HELP WANTED!!! up to $1000 WEEKLY PAID IN ADVANCE!!! MAILING BROCHURES or TYPING ADS for our company. FREE Supplies! Genuine Opportunity, PT/FT. No Experience Needed! www.

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ROTARY INTERNATIONAL – Start with Rotary and good things happen. Rotary, humanity in motion. Find information or locate your local club at www.rotary. org. Brought to you by your free community paper and PaperChain.

Take VIAGRA/CIALIS Only $99.00! 100mg and 20mg.

40 pills+ 4 Free. #1 Male Enhancement! Discreet Shipping. Call Now 1-800-213-6202 Miscellaneous/Satellite TV Lower Your Cable Bill!!! Complete Digital Satellite TV System FREE Install!!!! FREE HD/DVR UPGRADES As low As $19.99/mo Call NOW! 800-925-7945 Motorcycles/Wanted to Buy WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE KAWASAKI 19671980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, ZIR, KX1000MKII, A1-250, W1-650, H1-500, H2-750, S1-250, S2-350, S3-400 SUZUKI GS400, GT380, GT750, Honda CB750 (1969,1970) CASH. FREE PICKUP. 1-800-7721142, 1-310-721-0726. usa@classicrunners.com TV/Phone/Miscellaneous DIRECTV, Internet, & Phone From $69.99/mo + Free 3 Months: HBO® Starz® SHOWTIME® CINEMAX®+ FREE GENIE 4 Room Upgrade + NFL SUNDAY TICKET! Limited offer. Call Now 888-248-5961

46 Kudos & kvetch

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Food stamps for pets? You decide.

Pet food stamps relieve hungry pets

Who qualifies?

Eligible applicants will undergo a verification of income and need.

Once approved, they can receive pet food from Pet Food Direct, a pet food retailer, for a period of six months.

Generally speaking, anyone who is now receiving regular food stamps, is on public assistance, or is at or near the federal poverty level should be eligible. Within two weeks of the announcement of this program, more than 45,000 new pets were signed up, said Founder and Executive Director Marc Okon.

While you may never have heard of a program like Pet Food Stamps before, Okon said it is not revolutionary. Animal shelters and pet rescues across the country have been maintaining pet food banks and helping pet owners in need for years. So while the idea is not new, calling it Pet Food Stamps puts it in a familiar frame of reference.

Patience, please!

What happens after signing up?

o ot

Once applicants are approved, they receive a specific amount of food depending on the number and type of pets. Then an order for that amount of pet food is sent to PetFlow.com. PetFlow. com is an independent online retailer and is the exclusive provider of pet food for the Pet Food Stamp program. Approved members receive shipments directly to their homes, free of charge, and free of shipping fees.

What if your pet is on a special diet? PetFlow.com carries over 200 brands of pet products, including many special diet foods.

Pet Food Stamps mostly serves cats and dogs, but they also have some food for other small pets, like rabbits and guinea pigs.

Nonmembers can also purchase discounted pet food from PetFlow. com and receive regular shipments to their homes.

To sign up, you must fill out an online application at www.petfood stamps.org. If you don’t have access to the Internet, leave a message at 845-875-9545. Again, please be patient. ■

t

o

W

e’re not talking about the compassion that motivates us to vaccinate our pets or keep them warm in cold weather. Kindness that can be harmful to pets comes in the form of an overabundance of food and treats. The all-too-common result is a pet that becomes overweight or even obese.

A 2012 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found 52.5 percent of dogs and 58.3 percent of cats to be overweight or obese by their veterinarian. This translates to nearly 80 million dogs and cats in America with a weight problem. our we

Pet Food Stamps wants those interested in applying to know that they have been inundated with applications. If you apply and do not hear anything, don’t worry, and don’t apply again. Remember, this is a group of like-minded, generous folks who see a need and are doing their best to fill it without the over-regulation of the federal government. In other words, please be patient. This organization is doing a great thing and great things take time.

G

E

To vote “yes’ or “no” go to: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Are you killing your pet with kindness?

bsi t

e

By Teresa Ambord veryone knows about the federal food stamp program. Yes, now there are food stamps for pet food.

Before you roll your eyes and proclaim that the last thing we need is yet another government handout, you should know, this is not taxpayerfunded. The good folks who operate this program want the public to know it receives no government funds, nor is it seeking government funding. It is totally donation driven and funded by patrons and the kind hearts of supporters.

Pet Food Stamps, as it is called, is based in New York, but open to anyone in the United States who meets the income and need requirements.

It is intended to help those who are struggling and allow people to keep and adequately feed their pets during these tough economic times. Without some assistance, some people feel forced to surrender their beloved family pets because of what may be a temporary hardship.

August 2013

How can you tell if your pet is overweight?

With a little knowledge, you can use sight and touch to figure your pet’s general condition.

“When looking down on a dog or cat from above, the body should slim to a discernable waist,” Brown Mackie College - Akron’s Veterinary Technology Department Chair Dr. George Banta said.

“An animal is too thin if you can see the spine or ribs; however, you should be able to feel them beneath the fur.”

An animal of ideal weight will also display a pelvic tuck when viewed from the side.

“Just like humans, when animals overeat, they face increased risk for health problems like diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal problems and cancer,” Banta said.

These risks also include a shortened life expectancy.

Many owners feed pets according to the manufacturer’s suggested amounts; however, this instruction may not be right for your pet.

“These guidelines are meant to cover all animals of a certain weight range,” Attending Veterinarian at Ar-

e t vo

gosy University, Twin Cities, Dr. Mary Jo Wagner said. “An owner must consider the pet’s age and activity level.

The more active they are, the more calories they will burn in a day.”

Metabolism rates vary in animals the same way they do in people.

Wagner advises owners to keep an eye on body condition to judge whether a pet is eating properly.

“If your pet shows signs of being overweight, simply cut back the amount of food given at each meal.

Then weigh the pet in two or three weeks to see if it has made a difference,” she said.

Choosing the right food Choosing the right food for your pet is important. Different brands of food contain varying amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates and calories.

“As a general rule, young, active dogs need high protein food,” Wagner said. “Older dogs need higher fiber to keep the gastrointestinal tract moving.”

Ingredients listed on the package appear in descending order of volume. The first item on the list is most abundant in the food.

Most of us love to give treats, but many of us don’t realize how many we offer each day.

“They have smaller stomachs,” Wagner said. “Look at calories in everything your pet eats.”

Banta said table scraps are a definite no-no.

“Foods like chocolate, caffeine, grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs,” he said. “The high fat content associated with table scraps can lead to the onset of acute pancreatitis, which can be fatal.”

He recommends offering a carrot instead of a cookie. If you must give cookies, try breaking them in half.

“Pets do enjoy treats as a reward,” Wagner said. “However, attention from you is also a reward. It’s important to praise animals. In some ways, spending time with them is better than a treat.” ■

Serving families in the Grand Valley for over 100 years.

Financial Planning ~What does that have to do with funerals??

“Gee, I don’t really know what Mom wanted. These are such hard decisions and I want to honor her and do the right thing” “We don’t have the money to take care of this funeral. What on earth are we going to do?”

“This is so much to think about all at once and we haven’t lived here for so long. I don’t really know much about what Dad did or where he went to church, if he did—I can’t find his Veterans papers—Now What??????”

“IF ONLY” When someone dies confusion, lack of ability to concentrate and overall grief are overwhelming. Trying to make informed and accurate decisions based upon sentimental and heartfelt feelings create a very difficult situation.

Preplanning and financial planning are truly a necessary tool in these times. Many families do not live close, parents move to a retirement community and the family may not be familiar with the area and the funeral homes or cemeteries in the area and choices have to be made quickly. When a person takes the time to talk with their family members about their final wishes and implements them, it is far less stressful and certainly more comfortable when a funeral home is needed. Financially it is extremely helpful.

We at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary have an entire preneed division dedicated to helping you make wise and informed decisions based on information, not emotion at a time when you can think clearly.

A family record book can be obtained by anyone without any further obligation; financial or otherwise, just by calling or walking in. This book contains vital information for the forms and permits necessary to file when a person dies. Without this information, no burial or cremation can take place.

In this time, financial planning makes a world of difference for everyone. At the time someone dies it makes all the difference.

“Life is precious, Don’t waste it!”

2515 Patterson Road • Grand Junction, CO 81505

970.243.2450

info@cemgj.com www.callahan-edfast.com

Grandkids heading back to school?

Got a little time on your hands?

Make it count!

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE! Become a Foster Grandparent volunteer Foster Grandparent volunteers serve as mentors and tutors to young students, and they really make a difference.

Students blossom with one-on-one attention.

No teaching experience needed. To learn more, call 263-9091.

GIVE THE GIFT OF INDEPENDENCE! Be a Senior Companion Senior Companion volunteers provide support and friendship to homebound elders who need assistance with grocery shopping, errands, and other everyday tasks.

Without this help, many older adults would have to leave their homes for assisted living facilities or nursing homes.

Call 263-9092 for more info.

DELIVER LUNCH AND A SMILE! Join Gray Gourmet as a volunteer Gray Gourmet volunteers staff nine meal sites and deliver almost 300 hot lunches per day to homebound seniors, Monday through Friday. For 86 percent of homedelivery clients, Gray Gourmet is their main meal of the day. Call 243-9844 to learn more.

Visit our website at www.stmarygj.org for information about our services, campus maps, and driving directions.

“We’re here for life.”

970-298-CARE (2273) 2635 N. 7th Street • P. O. Box 1628 Grand Junction, CO 81502-1628 An Affiliate of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System

BE THE FACE OF ST. MARY’S! Be a hospital ambassador St. Mary’s Hospital has always relied on the generosity of volunteers. Each year, more than 1,000 volunteers work in the hospital and throughout the community. From greeting visitors and delivering flowers to playing the piano in our lobby, we have a volunteer opportunity to fit your interests.

Call 298-2012 or visit www.stmarygj.org for more info.

Upcoming Events Preventing a Stroke, and Preventing Another Stroke Friday, August 16, 1:00–2:30 pm Grand Mesa Room, St. Mary’s Life Center 2686 Patterson Road Dr. Logan McDaneld, medical director of St. Mary’s Stroke Center, Logan McDaneld, MD will discuss what we can stroke trained neurologist do to reduce our stroke risk, what to do if we think we or someone else has suffered a stroke, and how stroke survivors can reduce their chances of having another stroke.

Free and open to the public. No reservation needed. Call 298-1929 for more information.

St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets the third Friday of each month, 1:00-2:30 pm

Weight Loss Surgery Seminars Learn how weight loss surgery works and

who qualifies at a free seminar presented by the staff of St. Mary’s Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center. Call 970-298-6400 to register.

GRAND JUNCTION Wed., August 7, Noon–1:30 pm Wed., August 21, 5:30–7:00 pm MONTROSE Thurs., August 15, 5:30–7:00 pm “My mother and my sister both died of diabetic complications.

I thought diabetes was my death sentence, too. Now my diabetes is gone. Gone!”

-Lisa McGinnett, Palisade Gastric bypass surgery patient