October 2024 - BEACON Senior News - Western Colorado

$1,200 in grocery benefits. That’s a Medicare advantage.

With a Select Health Medicare + Kroger plan, you get:

• $100 monthly (up to $1,200 a year) grocery benefit available at King Soopers and City Market for those who qualify.

• $0 monthly premium

• $2,500 in dental coverage for fillings, root canals, crowns, and additional services

• $300 in benefits for gym memberships, health classes, over-the-counter items, and more

Want to learn more?

Attend a free seminar

Hotel Maverick

October 7, October 16, October 29

10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.

840 Kennedy Ave. Grand Junction, CO 81501

Please RSVP to 970-250-3264 (TTY:711)

Have questions?

Mesa Benefits

October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28

11:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

2232 N 7th Street. Unit 14, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Please RSVP to 970-549-0410 (TTY:711)

We’re here to help you understand your options and find a plan just for you. Call us for a free, no-obligation consultation. 720-776-8020 (TTY: 711)

Select Health is an HMO, PPO, SNP plan sponsor with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Select Health Medicare depends on contract renewal. The benefits mentioned are part of a special supplemental program for chronically ill enrollees. Eligible chronic conditions include diabetes, hypertension, musculoskeletal disorders, lung disorders, and cancer, as well as other conditions not listed. Eligibility for the benefits is not based solely on your condition and all eligibility requirements must be met before the benefits are provided. For details, please contact us. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 855-442-9940. Eligible for a free drawing, gift, or prizes with no obligation to enroll. Select Health obeys federal civil rights laws. We do not treat you differently because of your race, color, ethnic background or where you come from, age, disability, sex, religion, creed, language, social class, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and/or veteran status. This information is available for free in other languages and alternate formats upon request.

Select Health Medicare: 1-855-442-9900 (TTY: 711) / Select Health: 1-800-538-5038

ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.

Select Health

Robotic Surgery: Precision, Flexibility and Control

The word “robot” might bring to mind characters like R2D2 and C3PO from Star Wars, or Rosie from The Jetsons. Someone facing surgery may wonder how robots fit into the operating room and who is doing the work.

The concept of modern robotics began in the early 1900s with the first industrial robots developed in the 1950s. While robotic arms were initially used in manufacturing and agriculture, they gradually expanded into various fields including healthcare. Over the years as technology advanced, robotics became more sophisticated leading to innovations in the medical field.

In the 1960s laparoscopy changed how surgeries were performed. This technique uses small instruments, called trocars, that are inserted through tiny incisions, allowing surgeons to manipulate, cut and sew tissue with precision. By the 1970s, NASA began experimenting with remote surgery to support astronauts in space. Robotic surgery officially began in the 1980s combining laparoscopic techniques with advanced robotic systems. A major milestone occurred in 2001 with the Lindbergh surgery in which surgeons in New York performed a gallbladder removal on a patient in France.

Today’s robotic surgery systems are designed to enhance a surgeon’s skills. These systems typically consist of a camera arm and mechanical arms with surgical instruments, all controlled by the surgeon from a nearby console. The surgeon views a magnified, high-definition 3D image of the surgical site and the system translates their hand movements into precise robotic actions. So unlike R2D2, C3PO and Rosie, who seem to act and make decisions on their own and have a personality, rest assured that is not what robotics is like in surgery. The surgeons continue to control every aspect of your surgery using robotics to increase precision, flexibility and greater visualization.

Each surgical approach—open/traditional, laparoscopic or robotically assisted— has its place in surgery. The General Surgeons of Western Colorado surgeons will work with you to determine which is best for you.

Ask us about plans that have built-in dental, vision and hearing benefits with no additional premium. Give one of us a call or text today to set up an appointment, or stop by the office Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm.

North 7th Street Grand Junction, CO

IN THIS ISSUE

With Halloween approaching, explore the tales of haunted hotels, from mysterious sailors to spectral ladies in white, and decide if you’re brave enough for a spooky stay October 2024 | Volume 37 | Issue 10

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy

Founding Publisher Susan Capps

Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin

Graphic Designers

Michael L. Madsen B. Bigler

Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude

Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy

Advertising Executive Debra Romaniec

Delivery

Lauren VanGundy Brittney Bade

P.O. Box 3895

Grand Junction, CO 81502

Phone: 970-243-8829

Website BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email

Contact@BeaconSeniorNews.com

8 COVER STORY

Portraits of Grace

Find out how to choose a photographer who captures the fearless spirit of those who embrace their age and the importance of legacy portraits

Haunted Historic Hotels

Watch Out For Medicare Fraud and Scams

Medicare fraud is a massive issue, costing billions annually and impacting the vital services seniors rely on. Learn how to defend your benefits, spot prescription drug fraud and find support from legitimate organizations

31 The Surprising Ways AI is Changing Your Everyday Life

13 Caregiver Burden vs. Burnout

Learn about the effects of prolonged caregiving stress and discover practical strategies to help lighten the load

14 Pumpkin: Fall’s Nutritional Superstar

Pumpkins are more than just seasonal nostalgia—they’re nutritional power houses. But there’s a catch to unlocking their full potential

Turned Nightmares: Is Your Medication or Supplement to Blame?

Explore the rise of AI in marketing, from tech gadgets to everyday items, and learn how it impacts human creativity, decision-making, innovation

Montrose’s Intergenerational Village

For the first time on the Western Slope, The Village on San Juan offers an innovative solution to homelessness for both seniors and young adults

A Howling Good DJ

Bob Smith found his stride as Wolfman Jack, his eerie howls and lively patter captivated a nation in the ’60s-’80s, leaving listeners curious about the man behind the voice

While unsettling dreams are common, chronic nightmares shouldn’t be ignored. Learn how your medication or supplement may be impacting your sleep

The indoors vs. outdoor debate continues, but there’s a perfect middle ground—catios! 22 Next Year’s Garden Starts Now! Follow these simple steps to boost your soil’s health for next year’s garden. But the clock is ticking—start now for a fruitful harvest next year

A Tip or Two on

Christine June’s “50 Over 50 Portraits” celebrates the beauty of older women. Left to right, Annawyn, 89, Annie, 72 and Jan, 79.

Thank You! A BIG BEACON

Atthis year’s Montrose-Delta BeaconFest, more than 1,400 people walked through the doors of Montrose Pavilion, excited to immerse themselves in a day filled with entertainment, resources and giveaways at Colorado’s largest and funnest celebration of age!

Jedi George kicked off the show’s entertainment, followed by newcomer Eric Gross on piano, Robin Freed and the Harps in Motion Ensemble, and a surprise guest stepping in for his daughter who couldn’t make it—Donny Morales, delivering his soulful vocals.

Local experts shared their advice about Medicare, holistic wellness and breakthrough medical treatments

to curious seniors who attended our free seminars.

BEACON

readers selected Karen Locke, a dynamic longtime volunteer with HopeWest and Heirlooms for Hospice in Delta, for this year’s Volunteer of the Year award. She and and six other marvelous volunteers were honored at the stage for their altruistic support of local nonprofits.

As if the seminars, live entertainment and vendor booths weren’t enough, attendees were thrilled by the chance to win door prizes every 30 minutes.

We gave away gift baskets, restaurant gift cards, several rounds of golf, free oil changes, bowling, movie passes and more! Thank

you to all of the businesses who donated the wonderful gifts that made these drawings so exciting. BeaconFest wouldn’t have been the same without the friendly support of more than 100 vendors who set up booths, and our show sponsors: Valley View Heart & Vascular Center, Volunteers of America, Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital, 970 Medicare, Crossroads Senior Living, Colorow Care Center, Elk Ridge Health & Rehabilitation Center and The Lodge at Grand Junction. Each booth painted a picture of its own unique offerings to create a fair of local businesses that value being a part of the senior community.

To our volunteers, entertainers and most importantly, you, our guests, thank you for coming to BeaconFest and for reading the BEACON! ■

For over 15 years, Karen has been a dedicated volunteer at Heirlooms for Hospice in Delta, where her energy, passion and commitment have uplifted HopeWest’s mission. She also volunteers at the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center in Cedaredge and the Cedaredge Golf Course, where she helps organize the bi-annual art show featuring local artists. Karen’s generosity and service make her a shining example of what it means to truly care for others.

Karen Locke

House of Horror helps stuff seniors’ stockings

Unpopular opinion: Fall is one of my least favorite seasons.

I know, it’s practically sacrilege here in colorful Western Colorado, but I’m not a football fan and the pumpkin craze has never been my thing—in pie, beer or my morning latte. For me, autumn always carries one imminent reminder: winter is coming.

That said, it’s hard not to be swept up in the beauty of the changing leaves. And even though I’m no fan of cold weather, I'm grateful for Colorado’s distinct seasons. Fall gives me time to reflect on everything I’ve accomplished over the summer and what I still hope to finish before the year ends.

On pages 41 and 49, readers share at least one item on their bucket lists they hope to accomplish before the end of the year. What about you? Do you have something you’re still looking forward to checking off before the year wraps up? Email me at Cloie@Beacon SeniorNews.com.

SCREAM AND BE MERRY

One thing I do love about this season is Halloween—it’s one of my favorite holidays.

Volunteers with the Gift of Love, a local nonprofit that provides care packages and weekly food boxes for seniors, have been hard at work organizing a haunted house fundraiser your grandkids will be dying to go to!

The haunted house will be open every Friday and Saturday throughout October, plus on Halloween Eve, at 2872 I-70 BL in Grand Junction, next to GJ Pipe. This haunted attraction runs from 6-11 p.m., with a family-friendly hour from 6-8 p.m. Tickets are just $10 per person, with all proceeds benefiting The Gift of Love to fund Christmas care packages for seniors. Bring a brand new package of socks and receive $2 off!

MEDICARE DOESN’T HAVE TO BE SCARY

Speaking of spooky, there’s one thing that doesn’t have to be frightening this fall—Medicare Open Enrollment. Don’t let the idea of making changes to your plan spook you. Even if you’re happy with your Medicare coverage, it’s important to review it yearly, as things like cost, plans and in-network providers or pharmacies may change.

Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to review your plan. Open enrollment starts October 15 and ends December 7.

Volunteers with SHIP, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, can help take the scare out of Medicare with free, unbiased assistance. Trained SHIP counselors from organizations like Mesa County RSVP and Region 10 Area Agency on Aging are ready to guide you through the Medicare maze. Contact your local SHIP office for more information.

• In Mesa County, call 970-243-9839, ext. 1 • In Montrose and Delta, call 970-765-3129

GET YOUR FREE LISTING IN THE BEACON GUIDE

Planning is underway for the 2025 BEACON Guide, our annual resource directory and our most trusted publication, with two editions for seniors in Mesa County and Montrose & Delta Counties.

If you provide an essential service for seniors, you don’t want to miss your chance to be listed in this annual guide! It’s packed with hard-to-find contact information for senior programs, clubs and businesses that seniors and their caregivers rely on all year long.

Know of an organization or resource that should be included? Email us at Contact@ BeaconSeniorNews.com. You can check out last year’s guide at BeaconSeniorNews.com and learn more about the 2025 edition at Bea conSeniorNews.com/wc-2025-guide or call 970-243-8829 ■

Montrose-Delta BeaconFest

I really enjoyed all of the booths at BeaconFest and the pulled pork sandwiches from Rib City! It was really hard to hear the Harps and Hammers group even though my friend and I had front row seats. Unlike the other musicians who have strong sound systems, the harps were really overwhelmed by the chatty atmosphere. In the future, would it be possible to give the harps group a quiet place to perform?

- Nicki P.

Cloie: Thanks for attending BeaconFest! I’m sorry you weren’t able to hear the harpists that well. I’ll see if there’s anything we can do next year. If you’re interested in coming to Grand Junction BeaconFest, the harpists usually play in the foyer which is less busy. I had a great time at BeaconFest, but it’d be nice to have more chairs and larger print in the program.

- Anonymous

Would you write an article about the new parking meters in downtown Grand Junction that are two-sided? None of us seem to understand how they work!

- Connie S.

Thanks for donating the upgraded ad for the 1940s Hangar Dance!

- Keith S.

The Grand Junction Class of 1964 Reunion Committee would like to thank you so very much for the placement of our notice in the September issue regarding our 60th reunion. All of the committee enjoys the BEACON!

- GJHS 1964 60th Reunion Committee

Cloie: You’re welcome! We love publishing info about upcoming reunions!

Your company has a very great product and you need to be acknowledged for all of your hard work. You keep your readers knowing what is happening on the Western Slope!

- Fred K.

Portraits Grace of Legacy

By Colleen M. Story

Wportraits show there’s more to age than meets the eye

hat is a woman over 50?

Ask society and you might hear words like “diminished,” “older” and “invisible.” On the street, your gaze may pass right over her without a second thought. In movies or on social media, you’re unlikely to find any representation of her at all.

She’s just an older woman. In her prime, she might have been beautiful, but that was a long time ago.

Portrait photographer Christine June begs to differ. Through her lens, she reveals that a woman over 50 is far from invisible—in fact, she’s nothing short of amazing.

June didn’t set out to be a portrait photographer. She studied science in college, then went back to get her degree in painting, which is where she discovered her love for photography. She dabbled in many styles, including landscape, fine art, baby and family portraits—until a request from a 49-year-old woman for her 50th birthday shoot changed everything.

“It was so inspiring!” said June. “Her energy, her wisdom—all the things she survived to become 50.”

June, now 49 herself, says her clients have opened her eyes to the possibilities that await her after 50.

“These women are bold!” she said. “They’re bucking the whole system of beauty standards that say you must be this or that to be visible in the world. And it’s so powerful and eye-opening!”

She returns that energy to her clients in the portraits she takes.

CAPTURING MOMENTS IN TIME

After her portrait session with June, businesswoman Denise Perkins said, “I’m on the other side of 50, and for many people, that means things go downhill. But the last two years of my life have been some of my happiest, and I wanted to capture that.”

Perkins spent years in sales and marketing before stepping out on her own as a consultant two years ago. Now she does things on her own terms.

When she saw Christine’s portraits on social media, something resonated within her.

“She talked about doing this for yourself,” Perkins said, “and I thought, ‘This is the time I should capture who I am now, not who I was at 40 climbing the corporate ladder or when I was in college with a baby on my hip trying to break into the workforce.”

Jan Costas is also a big fan of embracing who you are.

Diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, doctors told her she had six months to live without treatment, or two years with it. Four years later, she’s now 80 years old.

“I've taken it kind of like an adventure,” she said, attributing her faith in guiding her. “It’s a journey that I had not planned. I’m just going to trust and live my life as best I can.”

Christine June celebrates the timeless beauty of women in their 50s, 60s and 70s+ through her one-of-a-kind 50 over 50 Portrait Experience.

Karen, 70

Stacey, 55

Jan, 80

Losing her hair during treatment didn’t stop her from getting her portrait taken by June. Having lived in Saudi Arabia, she developed a love for henna—a reddish dye prepared from the dried leaves of the henna tree—and decided to wear a “henna crown” instead of a wig. Her portraits have become some of June’s most popular pictures.

Annawyn Shamas had a different reason for booking her portrait session. An actress and theater director, her headshot appearing in theater programs was outdated. She also appreciated the way June’s work celebrates women over 50.

As she approaches 90, Shamas has noticed how people interact with her differently.

“I do think there is a diminishing quality in how you are perceived, but that doesn't mean you have to accept that,” she said.

“They’re like, ‘Wow, that’s me!’ It’s a lightbulb moment!”

None of the women came into June’s studio feeling photogenic, but they weren’t interested in portraying society’s version of beauty.

“I don’t have to be a model to have a portrait that says, ‘This is who Jan is,’” said Costas.

All the women spoke about how much these portraits would mean to their families and reflected on photos they had of loved ones who had passed. But June’s greatest gift was helping them see their own inspiration.

It’s not just a photo; it’s a piece of art that says,

“This is me, this is my life, this is my legacy.”

STRENGTH IN EVERY IMAGE

We live in a snap-and-share world, said June, but there’s something magical about a portrait that digital images can’t replicate.

“It’s not just a photo; it’s a piece of art that says, ‘This is me, this is my life, this is my legacy,” she said. “For us women who have seen and lived through so much, a portrait can capture all the wisdom, strength and beauty we’ve cultivated over decades.”

June’s favorite part is revealing these qualities through her lens.

“This is who I am,” Shamas said, describing one of her favorite portraits, where she’s wrapped in a Native American shawl. “I’m not going to be beaten down by this or that. I’m going to be a tall woman standing, looking into the future. I didn’t know that I would have a photograph that would show that.”

Costas agreed.

“We are not just going to be ground into the dust,” she said. “Each one of us is special. I just want to treasure that.”

Perkins said her husband cried when he saw her photos, telling her how beautiful she looked. But Perkins saw something more.

“She’s got it together,” she said, speaking as a stranger might when observing the photo. “I think I’ve spent my whole life trying to keep it together! Don’t we all do that as women? I’ve lived a great life. It’s the power to give yourself permission to be who you are and not apologize for it.” ■

Create your legacy through portraiture

Christine June is based in Centennial, Colorado, but she offers these tips for capturing your legacy in a portrait. Imagine preserving your spirit, smile and life stories to share with future generations. While digital files may not last (who knows if JPEGs will be around in 50 years?), a timeless portrait will tell your story when you’re no longer around to share it.

■ Find a Photographer Who Gets You: Find a photographer who sees more than just what’s in front of the camera. You need a photographer who can look beyond the lens and capture your essence in a stunning portrait.

■ Tell YOUR Story YOUR Way: Highlight your hobbies, achievements or dreams that define your journey by incorporating them in your shoot.

■ Dress to Shine: Choose outfits that make you feel fabulous, accessories that sparkle as much as you do and go for a makeup look that makes you feel like a million bucks.

■ Enjoy Your Moment: Let go of insecurities and enjoy the experience. Chat with your photographer, laugh, share stories and let your personality shine.

■ Preserve It Forever: Think about how you want to showcase your portrait—whether framed, as a canvas or a stylish photo book. Make it something your family can cherish, hold and treasure for years to come.

See more of Christine’s work on Instagram: @christine.june.photography

Elena, 61

Denise, 68 Annawyn, 89

n 1918, entrepreneurs and philanthropists

Spencer and Julie Penrose built The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, which evolved into the luxury resort it is today. Unfortunately, Julie disappeared into the surrounding woods one day and was found the next morning, confused and unsure how she had gotten there. She passed away shortly after.

Today, some guests claim to encounter Julie’s spirit wandering the halls and visiting the penthouse where she once stayed.

The Broadmoor is just one of many hotels around the country famous not only for their luxury facilities and amenities but also for their resident ghosts. With Halloween approaching, thrill-seekers looking for a spooky stay have plenty of haunted hotels and paranormal experiences to choose from.

EERIE ELEGANCE

Other historic properties also have their own claims to ghostly fame. Parts of today’s Admiral Fell Inn have stood in their location since the 1770s, in what was once a crime-ridden, ship-building neighborhood of Baltimore. Given its history, it’s almost natural—or perhaps supernatural—that sailors have been spotted

floating through the hallways. During a hurricane evacuation, a hotel manager once reported hearing the sounds of a loud party coming from within the inn, despite it being completely empty at the time.

Even an iconic cruise ship, which sailed over the Atlantic Ocean from 1936 until 1967, is said to be inhabited by sea-faring ghosts.

The Queen Mary is docked in Long Beach, California, where it serves as a hotel, restaurant and museum.

Among reasons why Time magazine

The Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, was voted one of Time Magazine’s “Top 10 Most Haunted Places in America.”

Photo by Giovanni Gagliardi/Dreamstime.com

voted the vessel one of the “Top 10 Most Haunted Places in America” are sightings of an engineer who died at sea, a lady in white and children playing in a swimming pool. Haunted encounters tours are offered during the day, and twilight excursions and seances explore the ship’s haunted past and paranormal activity.

The Kennebunk Inn was built near Maine’s Atlantic coastline in 1799 as a residence, then evolved into a hotel. The spirit of a clerk who worked there and died in the mid-1900s is believed to haunt his former workplace, causing wine glasses and other objects to topple over or fly through the air.

Other ghost-like figures have also taken up long-term residence. Among them is the “Pink

Lady,” a young woman in Victorian dress surrounded by a rosy mist, who frequents the Omni Grove Park Inn. She is said to be a guest who stayed at the Asheville, North Carolina, property in the 1920s, fell to her death and now haunts the inn.

FIVE-STAR PHANTOMS

Another lady in white haunts the Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City, South Dakota, accompanied by the spirit of the man for whom the building is named. So many reports of eerie occurrences have surfaced over the years that the hotel maintains a Ghost Journal at the front desk, where guests can record their inexplicable experiences.

At the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, the International Society for Paranormal Research encountered over a dozen earthbound entities. They documented a restaurant door that remains locked yet mysteriously opens and closes, an elevator that stops at the wrong floor and ghostly images of children playing.

The top window in the tower of the Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine, Florida, draws the attention of those hoping to spot the presence of Franklin Smith. He was the architect who opened the property in 1888 but soon ran into financial difficulties and sold it. After exten -

sive and expensive renovations, the hotel was transformed into a luxurious throwback to the Gilded Age of the late 19th century. A man seen peering out from the ornate six-story tower is believed to be Smith himself, lamenting the turn of events that led him to lose his dream property.

In the late 1800s, Deadwood, South Dakota, was a lawless, rowdy town that attracted the likes of Wyatt Earp, Wild Bill Hickok and Seth Bullock, who served as the community’s first sheriff. Bullock built the hotel named after him, and he is believed to haunt it. Items moving on their own and voices echoing through dark hallways add to the eeriness.

The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, touts itself as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.” The hands of a stonemason who plunged to his death from room 218 during construction have reportedly been seen emerging from a bathroom mirror. The door opens and closes on its own, and the cries of a falling man are said to emanate from the ceiling.

Whether you’re a firm believer or a skeptical observer, staying at a hotel known for ghostly activity can be a thrilling and spooky experience.

And what better time to do so than during the Halloween haunting season? ■

We offer a wide selection of reliable adaptive vehicles designed to enhance your life and meet your specific needs no matter your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a minivan, SUV, or truck our team has the perfect vehicle for you. Experience the independence and freedom of mobility! Our adaptive vehicles are equipped with features that make driving and riding comfortable and accessible. From ramps and lifts to hand controls and seating modifications, we have the solutions you need to get where you want to go with ease.

The Bullock Hotel in Deadwood, South Dakota.

Photo by Kenneth Sponsler/ Dreamstime.com

Spooky decoration at Hotel Monteleone.

Photo by Carrie Moran/Dreamstime.com

Baked Broccoli Mac

Recipe courtesy of Cookin’ Savvy

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 box (1 pound) pasta noodles, such as cellentani, elbow or penne

2 cups chopped broccoli

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half

2 cups mozzarella

1/2 block pasteurized cheese product, cubed

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder salt and pepper, to taste

Topping:

2 cups breadcrumbs

1/2 stick butter

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Heat oven to 350° F.

In large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain well, then add broccoli, chicken broth, cream, mozzarella, pasteurized cheese product, garlic powder and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Mix well.

To make topping: In bowl, mix breadcrumbs, butter and Parmesan cheese.

Pour macaroni mixture into large baking dish, then sprinkle with breadcrumb mixture. Bake 30 minutes. ■

Caregiver burden How to manage ongoing stress

Caring for a loved one is a major emotional and physical investment. When you’re tending to another, it’s easy to neglect yourself.

While “burnout,” an old firefighting slang term, seems like a good moniker for the battle the caregiver fights, it suggests a blackened tree stump smoldering in the breeze. It is a one-time thing, over and done. But family caregivers’ stress is ongoing.

A better term is “caregiver burden,” the level of multifaceted strain perceived by the caregiver as a result of caring for a family member or loved one over time.

Stress is a physical response to danger. When a predator appears, the prey’s body releases adrenaline and cortisol that triggers flight, fight or freeze. Adrenaline makes the heart beat faster, raises blood pressure and gives you more energy. Cortisol increases sugar in the blood that gives the brain a jolt and helps repair injuries. These immediate effects help in responding to threats, but they come at a cost of upsetting the body’s normal rhythms.

If the threat does not dissipate, the body may not work right, causing symptoms like anxiety, depression, headaches, muscle tension and pain, heart disease and attack, stroke, sleep disruption, weight gain and loss of memory and focus.

Caregivers are stressed and subject to these symptoms—often for years. When a certified nurse assistant came to one of my groups, the others were interested in how a professional gets along with caring for a loved one.

She said, “I love my job. I help

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

BY LAIRD LANDON, PhD

people in need and find as much joy as possible. When I go home at night, I should get relief from work. But at home with my mom, I’m on duty all night. I now understand why families are so strung out!”

Getting up at night to help with bathroom needs deprives family caregivers of needed rest. But the emotional toll of watching a loved one fail is crushing. Caregiving for a loved one is one of the hardest endeavors.

IDEAS FOR CAREGIVERS:

• Resist thinking you are the only one who can do the job.

• Join a support group of others who understand. You can trade ideas.

• Talk to others about what’s satisfying, what’s hard and where you need help.

• Carve out time for yourself. Go in the bathroom, close the door for five minutes and listen to relaxing music. If that works, do it for 10 minutes.

• Invite others over and observe how they get along with your loved one. If they are comfortable, ask them to be a companion for a couple hours.

• If you get time off, don’t fill it doing unfinished tasks! That will leave you exhausted.

• Find an empathetic relative and confide in them. Ask them to relay the info to family and friends. Consider creating a private Facebook group.

• Journal. Writing releases emotions. Reviewing past entries will help you realize you’re getting the job done. ■

Send your questions to Laird in care of the BEACON, or email him at Laird@Family-Caregiver.org

Discover peace of mind in senior living at The Commons. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our compassionate staff, who take the time to personally connect with each new resident. Through comprehensive assessments, we tailor individualized care plans to promote optimal health and foster independence. Experience the difference at The Commons, where your wellbeing is our priority.

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Pumpkin Fall’s nutritional superstar

By Wendell Fowler

Themoment I see, taste, or smell anything pumpkin, I’m transported to gray, rainy autumn days. I think of hot cider, the smokey haze from burning leaves, outdoor football and snuggling under a blanket on hayrides beneath a harvest moon. I can hear the giggles of sugar-fueled trick-or-treaters and picture glowing Jack-o’-lanterns lighting up the night.

Then there’s the aroma of creamy pumpkin pie fresh out of the oven, topped with a generous dollop of real whipped cream (artificial whipped cream is an abomination).

Pumpkins—a symbol of prosperity, growth and abundance—were once a revered part of the Native American diet. Their seeds were valued more for their oil and medicinal properties than for the orange flesh we eat today. Before the Industrial Revolution, Native Americans and early settlers roasted pumpkins over campfires, using this nutrient-packed fruit for food and medicine. Settlers even

hollowed out pumpkins, filled them with milk, eggs, honey, maple syrup and cinnamon and baked them in hot ashes—perhaps the original pumpkin pie?

These nutrient-dense pumpkins helped settlers endure long winters and became a staple in early New England. As a 1630 Pilgrim verse tells us:

“For pottage and puddings and custards and pies, our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies. We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon, If it were not for pumpkins, we should be undoon.”

Pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, support prostate health (thanks to zinc), improve bladder function, prevent kidney stones and lower cholesterol. With their natural supply of L-tryptophan, they can even help treat depression. Plus, their anti-inflammatory properties may help prevent osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes and age-related

macular degeneration.

Pumpkins are also packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, which nourish and protect our eyes, and they help maintain skin integrity. This fibrous orange marvel is loaded with magnesium, vitamins C and E, potassium and B-complex vitamins like folates, niacin, B6, thiamin and pantothenic acid. Clearly, pumpkins are the golden superstars of fall foods—a nutritional powerhouse with vitamins and wholesome goodness.

But here’s the catch: to reap pumpkin’s full benefits, it has to be fresh. So, ditch the canned purée and back away from the grocery shelf! Canned food is often energetically depleted, offering little nutritional value.

Use pumpkins as medicine or to create savory entrées, soups or desserts. Just steer clear of sugary, artificial pumpkin spice lattes—you deserve better! Get back into the kitchen and cook pumpkins the way our ancestors did. ■

Roasted Pumpkin Recipe

• 1 (2-3 lb.) sugar pumpkin (pie pumpkin)

• 1 Tbsp. coconut or avocado oil

• 1 pinch Himalayan salt

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

With a sharp knife, cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds and strings.

Brush the pumpkin flesh with oil, sprinkle with salt, and place it flesh-side down on the baking sheet. Prick the skin a few times with a fork or knife to let steam escape.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a fork easily pierces the skin. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, then scoop out the flesh for your recipe of choice.

To make purée, blend the roasted pumpkin in a food processor until smooth. Store roasted pumpkin or purée in the fridge for up to one week or freeze it for up to a month.

Dress up in your favorite

credit: www.freepik.com

Dreams turned nightmares

Emily,once a sound sleeper, found her nights plagued by vivid, distressing nightmares. These night terrors, triggered by newfound stressors and medication side effects, left her sleep-deprived and desperate for relief. While her doctor initially attributed her nightmares to her recent family problems, Emily’s discovery of my article on medication-induced dreams offered her a solution.

While these unsettling dreams are a part of life, chronic or frequent nightmares are not.

It’s important to recognize that medications can profoundly impact our dreams, a possibility that’s often overlooked.

The top 10 drug categories that can cause nightmares are antidepressants (especially SSRIs), antipsychotics, beta-blockers, statins, ADHD medications, smok-

ing cessation aids, corticosteroids, antibiotics, blood pressure medications and anti-malaria drugs.

In Emily’s case, the culprit was a statin drug prescribed for cholesterol management, but known to cause nightmares and mood changes. By temporarily discontinuing the medication and embracing lifestyle changes like exercise, a low-carb, high-protein diet and lipid management supplements, Emily was able to reclaim peaceful nights. Similarly, some herbal remedies and vitamins, such as melatonin, valerian root, excessive amounts of vitamin B6, and ginseng, can induce nightmares. Sometimes, a simple adjustment can help reduce this side effect. For instance, you might try changing the timing of your medication or considering a dosage reduction. The goal is to minimize dream-related side ef-

Is your medication or supplement to blame?

fects while still benefiting from the medication.

You could also explore combination therapies, using a natural aid alongside a drug. For example, pairing a statin with fish oil or an antidepressant with magnesium. Adhere to good sleep hygiene, and optimize your bedroom so it’s cool, comfy and dark at night. Keeping a sleep diary to track nightmare patterns can also be helpful.

Having nightmares is awful. It can make you not even want to go to bed at night! It can impact cardiovascular function too, so even though it’s a bad dream and

DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN

you don’t even remember it (which is pretty normal), you should try to get to the root cause.

Before seeking expensive sleep specialists or additional medications, consult your doctor to investigate if your existing medication or supplement regimen is contributing to the issue. That way, if a new side effect occurs on the heels of a prescription or herbal supplement you started taking, you can immediately figure it out, rather than waste months of sleepless nights. Always consult with your healthcare provider about adjusting or discontinuing medications, as sudden changes can be harmful. ■

For more articles and advice, sign up for Suzy’s newsletter at SuzyCohen.com

5 malnutrition facts you probably didn't know

Courtesy of National Council on Aging

Malnutrition is a significant issue globally, especially among older adults. As people age, changes in their bodies can lead to decreased appetite, weight loss and other challenges, putting them at higher risk for malnutrition. Here are five surprising facts about malnutrition that may help you recognize it in yourself or a loved one.

FACT 1: MALNUTRITION AFFECTS ALL BODY TYPES

Malnutrition isn’t just about being underweight—41.5% of U.S. adults ages 60 and older are overweight. Malnourished individuals can come in all sizes, including those who are obese. Even if someone eats enough calories, they might still lack essential nutrients like protein, which is important for maintaining muscle health.

In contrast, hunger refers to the feeling of discomfort caused by a lack of food. Older adults may lose their appetite for various reasons, even when their bodies still need nourishment.

FACT 2: OLDER ADULTS ARE ESPECIALLY AT RISK

In 2021, one in 14 older adults experienced food insecurity. While malnutrition is more common in older adults living in health care settings like nursing homes (16-19%), it affects around 11% of older adults living in the community. As we age, our bodies’ nutrient needs change. It’s especially important to get adequate fluids, protein, calcium, and vitamin D while limiting salt and saturated fats.

FACT 3: MALNUTRITION CAN

COME FROM A NUMBER OF FACTORS

There are many reasons why older adults might become malnourished,

including: chronic conditions, limited income, dental issues, trouble swallowing, loss of appetite, living alone, lack of mobility, medication side effects and depression or dementia.

These factors can compound each other, making it more difficult to get proper nutrition. For example, feeling too tired to cook or shop can worsen malnutrition, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

FACT 4: EATING MORE ISN’T THE SOLUTION

Simply eating more food won’t necessarily prevent or treat malnutrition. It’s about getting the right balance of nutrients, not just calories. Adjusting your diet to include nutrient-rich foods and building muscle by exercising can help combat malnutrition.

FACT 5: WATCH FOR WARNING SIGNS

Signs of malnutrition include: Muscle weakness, fatigue, frequent illness, irritability or depression, unplanned weight loss and loss of appetite.

Malnutrition is an imbalance of nutrients—meaning your diet may be high in calories but is low in nutrients that your body needs. Rather than just eat more, malnourished adults need to carefully adjust their diet to make sure they’re getting everything they need.

If you notice any of these warning signs in yourself or someone else, speak to a doctor. Recognizing the signs early and taking steps to address malnutrition can make a big difference in overall health. ■

article was reprinted courtesy of National Council on Aging. Learn more at NCOA.org

WHEN YOU’RE TOO OLD TO TRICK-OR-TREAT

Submitted by Stacey Splude

You know you’re too old to trick-ortreat when:

You get winded just knocking on the door.

You need another kid to chew the candy for you.

You’re only asking for high-fiber candy (and hoping the top doesn’t pop off).

When someone drops a candy bar in your bag, you lose your balance and topple over.

You have to pick a costume that won’t dislodge your hairpiece.

You’re the only Power Ranger in the neighborhood with a walker.

You keep having to go home to pee.

GOOD OL’ DAYS

Submitted by Jane Slepitis

I remember the good ol’ days when you lost a tooth and you got a quarter from the Tooth Fairy and you felt rich. Now you lose a tooth because the dentist took it and you gotta pay him—even if he gives it

hope it’s not the 13th.”

Two blond men find three grenades and decide to take them to a police station.

One asks, “What if one explodes before we get there?”

The other replies, “We’ll lie and say we only found two.”

A woman calls her blond neighbor and says, “Close your curtains next time you and your wife are having sex. The whole street was watching yesterday.”

The blond man replies, “Well, the joke’s on all of you because I wasn’t even home yesterday.”

OUTDOOR WOMAN

Submitted by Patricia Stevens

During her physical, a doctor asks a retired woman about her physical

stepping on a snake. I climbed hills, went to the bathroom behind trees, ran from an irate bear and drank scotch and three glasses of wine to recover.”

Amazed, the doctor says, “Wow, you are one heck of an outdoor woman.”

“No,” the woman replies, “I’m just a really bad golfer.”

THE COST OF KISSES

Submitted by Linda Miller

A pretty teenage girl spots some nice fabric for a dress at a store. She asks the young male clerk how much it costs.

“Only one kiss per yard,” the clerk says with a smirk.

“That’s fine,” the girl says. “I’ll take 10 yards.”

Filled with excitement, the clerk

KIDS THINK FAST

Submitted by Laura Collins

Teacher: Why are you late?

Joe: Because of the sign.

Teacher: What sign?

Joe: The one that says, “School ahead, go slow.”

Teacher: Cindy, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?

Cindy: You told me to do it without using tables!

Teacher: John, how do you spell crocodile?

John: K-R-O-K-O-D-A-I-L

Teacher: No, that’s wrong.

John: Maybe it’s wrong, but you asked me how I spell it!

Teacher: What is the chemical formula for water?

Sarah: H I J K L M N O!!

Teacher: What are you talking about?

Sarah: Yesterday you said it’s H to O!

Teacher: George, go to the map and find North America.

George: Here it is!

Teacher: Correct. Now class, who discovered America?

Class: George!

Teacher: Tommy, why do you always get so dirty?

Tommy: Well, I’m a lot closer to the ground than you are.

Teacher: Ellen, give me a sentence starting with “I.”

Ellen: I is...

Teacher: No, Ellen. Always say, “I am.”

Ellen: All right. I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.

Teacher: George Washington not only chopped down his father’s cherry tree but also admitted doing it. Now do you know why his father didn’t punish him?

Johnny: Because George still had the ax in his hand.

Teacher: Desmond, your composition on “My Dog” is exactly the same as your brother’s. Did you copy his?

Desmond: No, teacher, it’s the same dog!

Teacher: What do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?

Pupil: A teacher.

Sylvia: Dad, can you write in the dark?

Father: I think so. What do you want me to write?

Sylvia: Your name on this report card.

CREATION OF THE MIDWEST

Submitted by Tom Richards

On the sixth day, God tells the archangel Gabriel, “Today, I’m going to create the Midwest. It will be a land of natural beauty with hills, plains, lakes, forests and fertile soil. The people here will be known as the friendliest on Earth.”

“But Lord,” Gabriel says, “aren’t you being too generous to the Midwesterners?”

“Not really,” God replies. “Just wait and see the winters I’m going to give them.”

LEARNING TO DRINK

Submitted by Michael O’Connor

While reading an article last night about fathers and sons, memories flooded back to when I took my son out for his first pint. Off we went to our local pub, only two blocks from our house. I got him a Guinness. He didn’t like it, so I drank it. Then I got him a Kilkenny’s. He didn’t like that either, so I drank it. Finally, I thought he might like some Harp lager. He didn’t. So I drank it. I thought maybe he’d like whiskey better, so we tried a Jameson’s. Nope! In desperation, I had him try that rare Redbreast, Ireland’s finest. He wouldn’t even smell it. What could I do but drink it? By the time I realized he just didn’t like to drink, I was so drunk I could hardly push his stroller home. ■

Become an SOS Volunteer

And Help Provide Rides and Independence to Homebound Seniors

Supporting Our Seniors (SOS) is a transportation program that provides rides to homebound seniors age 60 and over. Our volunteers provide seniors a ride to the grocery store, pharmacy, and medical appointments, helping them maintain their independence.

We are currently seeking volunteers who have their own vehicle, valid driver’s license, registration, and insurance. We offer flexible schedules and mileage reimbursement.

Catios: Create a safe outdoor space your cat will love

For years, we let our cats roam freely outside. But when our senior cat Moose didn’t come back, we knew it was time to find a way to keep our cats safe while still giving them the outdoor time they crave.

The debate between keeping cats indoors or letting them outside is a common issue. Many of us want our cats to experience the joys of being outside—basking in the sun, playing, scratching dirt and trees and interacting with the world. Yet our homes also keep them safe from wild animals, infections, parasites, poisons, bad weather and injuries from other animals or vehicles. Plus, keeping cats inside protects smaller wildlife.

A great compromise might be a catio—a cat patio.

Catios are enclosed structures usually made of mesh or wire and come in many shapes and sizes. They can be as simple as a window box or as elaborate as a multilevel playground. You can build one yourself, or you can buy a kit or hire a professional.

Catios fall into two main categories: freestanding and attached.

Freestanding catios aren’t connected to your home, so you’ll need to bring your cat to and from the enclosure. Attached catios connect to your house, often with a cat door or tunnel that lets your cat come and go as they please.

Large or small, freestanding or attached, there isn’t a wrong way to build a catio. Your decision will depend on your budget, available space and your cat’s preferences.

For example, if you live in an apartment, a window box or balcony catio might be a great fit. If you travel frequently, a freestanding catio that’s easy to move might be ideal. If you have a large patio or deck, you could convert part of it into an attached catio with multiple levels. Some companies even offer fence extensions to enclose your whole yard.

Your cat’s personality also mat-

ters. Is your cat a bush dweller or a tree dweller?

Bush dwellers feel most comfortable down low, often hidden under tables or behind plants. If your cat prefers staying low, consider adding tunnels or cubes to their space.

Tree dwellers are confident in high, vertical spaces—on top of tables or climbing plants. For these cats, ramps, shelves and cat trees make the perfect addition.

Whether you’re building, buying or hiring someone to create your catio, make sure to consider durability, safety, flooring, weather resistance and the possibility of your cat escaping.

Catios are becoming more popular, and a simple online search can provide plenty of inspiration for your project. They’re the perfect way to let your cat enjoy the outdoors while staying safe. ■

This article was reprinted courtesy of Happy Cats Haven, a no-kill shelter for cats in Manitou Springs. Learn more at HappyCatsHaven.org.

• RELEVANT: An extensive resource directory with articles and contact information for hundreds of clubs, programs and businesses geared to helping

• RELIABLE: We call and verify every listing for accuracy.

•

• WIDELY DISTRIBUTED: The BEACON Guide is widely distributed through the magazine, at over 160 local pick-up points and is mailed free of charge to hundreds of seniors, their adult children and senior industry professionals who request it.

Next year’s garden starts now

Plant cover crops in October for a bountiful 2025 harvest

Oneof the challenges of living in a high desert is that our native soils are low in organic matter. Ideally the soil should be composed of 5% organic matter, but soil tests around the Valley tend to find 1-2%.

Organic matter is any products that come from living things (like manure or grass clippings) and decaying plant or animal materials (think compost and dead insects). It’s full of building blocks necessary for plant growth—carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium—along with secondary nutrients, trace minerals, various acids and typically a host of microbes.

Farmers consider their soil as a bank for lending out cash later in the form of sales. Ensuring that there’s enough organic matter in the soil now is like making a deposit that will pay off next season.

REPLENISH ORGANIC MATTER

The beauty of a varied organic matter profile in your soil is that you’ll have all those nutrients and minerals in your crops. But the downside is that each harvest, each

carrot pulled, each time the lawn is cut removes those nutrients from the soil. That means the percentage of organic matter drops each year as it’s converted to plant food. Gardeners are responsible for adding back to the soil bank with active additions.

We could have started next year’s garden last May by adding mulch to the garden, putting straw or leaves over the soil surface. The underside would already be decomposing by now, and some of it can be turned into the top couple inches of soil in the fall to further its conversion to organic matter over the winter.

One of the easiest and beneficial actions you can take this month is

Add kitchen scraps to your garden to add nutrients over the winter.

to cut the spent tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. at the base of the stalks and leave the roots. Ripping the plants out roots and all short-circuits the nutrient cycle. You’re instantly adding organic matter, as the roots decay deep in the soil and become nutrients for next year’s crops, right where the plant roots will be. Additionally, by laying down the cut plants on the garden soil, they too break down over winter, and you’ll already have mulch materials for the soil next season.

COVER CROPS ENRICH SOIL

Farmers also plant cover crops in their pastures and orchards to build organic matter in their soils. Alfalfa and grasses are great, as the alfalfa puts out a deeper taproot and the grasses have shallow fibrous roots. Alfalfa is a legume, so it fixes nitrogen that the grasses crave, and they both act as armor to protect the soil from erosion and outcompete weeds. You can mimic that same model, but instead of using perennial crops that come back each year, you can use annuals that are planted now and will get estab -

Triticale is a cross between rye and wheat which are both annual grasses. It fixes nitrogen into the soil that plants crave.

lished before dying back or going dormant in deep frost.

You then have the option of lightly turning the spent plants into the topsoil next spring or cutting them at the stem and planting next summer in between where their roots are decomposing. Planting cover crops in between existing plants, into any bare soil after har vested roots or along the edges of the garden works well. Being annu als, you can slip them in anywhere starting in August to replenish all the pounds of food taken out. After winter, your annuals will be spent and you can plant freely in the early spring.

rye. Local farmers have planted it before October 15, and it will continue to grow in soils down to 34 degrees! It’s not uncommon for it to finally freeze out only to burst out of dormancy in the spring and produce more biomass and eventually seeds. A home gardener could choose to incorporate the plants into the soil next season or plant them in a corner of the garden to let them go to seed, be harvested

wheat or barley and had the same effects on our soil. Since time is short, finding a local supplier would be best for getting the seeds in the garden soon.

a comprehensive and quality network of healthcare options, both short-term and long-term, to our valued older adult neighbors and their families in Montrose and Delta Counties.

Austrian peas and hairy vetch are the kings of late-season legumes. They can be planted now until about October 15 and still germinate. Triticale is a cross between rye and wheat which are both annual grasses. It grows many small fibrous roots for the soil and acts as a windbreak to catch any rain or snow and hold it in the soil for next year.

Arguably the best cover crop to plant now is cereal or winter

David at BioReGenesis sells cover crop seeds and can be reached through his website: bioregenesis. us/contact-us ■

WORM COMPOST WORKSHOP

FALL PLANTING DATES:

The ideal planting dates for October are the 1st to the 6th, so get out there! The next phase is the 20th to the 31st, and that’s too late for outdoor planting.

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED

Send your gardening questions to Bryan in care of the BEACON, or email him at BCReed@ColoradoMesa.edu

We’ve Moved

to a New Grand Junction Location!

Experienced Senior Care for total peace of mind

Our friendly, comprehensive services, including companionship, personal care and specialized services, are designed to keep seniors safe and happy in the comforts of home. We believe in a higher purpose that compels us to serve others with excellence.

Assists with Bathing & Dressing Light Housekeeping Meal Preparation Shopping & Errands And more!

Call today for a free assessment!

Grand Junction 2454 Hwy 6&50, Unit 9113 970-254-8888 Montrose 813 E Main Street 970-417-1152 NEW LOCATION! ST MARY'S

We are seeking volunteers in our community to serve in the hospital environment providing a friendly face and personal touch to patients and their family. Volunteers help make our hospital a little brighter for everyone by serving in areas such as Entrance Information Desks, Gift Shop, Oncology Center, and Spiritual Care.

Feel the thrill and chills at some of Colorado’s most haunted hot spots

By Carly Holbrook, Colorado Tourism Office

St. Mary’s Regional Hospital

Contact Volunteer Services at 970-298-2012 or www.stmarysgj.org/ways-to-give/volunteer

Colorado’s history is filled with gold rushes, Wild West saloons and Native American history. But beneath the scenic beauty lies a darker side—one filled with eerie legends, haunted hotels and ghostly apparitions. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these haunted destinations offer a glimpse into Colorado’s mysterious past.

ASHCROFT GHOST TOWN (ASPEN)

Once home to two newspapers, 20 saloons, a school and many private homes, Ashcroft faded before the turn of the century. Just 10 miles from Aspen, visitors can take a guided tour of about a dozen buildings preserved by the Aspen Historical Society, including the jail, livery stable and a couple of saloons. For more eerie history, explore Aspen’s spooky past on the DarkSide Ghost Tour. This tour visits some of Aspen Colorado’s most haunted places and tells the stories behind

them as well as some truly darker happenings. This hour-long tour is suitable for the whole family or just the adults. See available dates at AspenWalkingTours.com. Tickets for adults are $35; children 17 and under are $30.

BLACK MONARCH HOTEL (VICTOR)

In the late 1800s, during Victor’s heyday, the Monarch Hotel served miners and international travelers drawn by the Gold Rush. Today, the renovated boutique hotel attracts guests with its reported paranormal activity. Strange sightings include the silhouette of a woman in a window when no one is there and the unsettling sounds of women laughing and men yelling in the middle of the night. With Victor’s violent past, including the Colorado Labor Wars and numerous Gold Rush-era murders, it’s no wonder the town is considered one of Colorado’s most haunted. Book a room at: BlackMonarchHotel.com

CENTRAL CITY MASONIC CEMETERY (CENTRAL CITY)

Photographs taken at night in this cemetery often show unexplained orbs of light. Visitors have also reported seeing a little boy following them around the grounds, ducking behind trees when approached.

Twice a year, a mysterious woman in black appears to place columbines on the grave of John Edward Cameron, vanishing into thin air when anyone gets close. Though wandering the cemetery after dark is considered trespassing, the Gilpin County Historical Society offers Creepy Crawls through Central City’s ghostliest sites each October. Call 303-582-5283 or visit GilpinHis tory.org

HOTEL COLORADO (GLENWOOD SPRINGS)

This 1893 hotel is known for its paranormal activity. Guests and staff often hear the eerie wails of a woman and report flickering lights. The building’s spooky reputation is intensified by its use as a crematorium for World War II military personnel. Plan your visit at HotelColorado.com.

CHEESMAN PARK (DENVER)

Perhaps the most chilling of Denver’s haunted spots, Cheesman Park was built over a former graveyard, inspiring the movie “Poltergeist.” When the area was converted in the late 1800s, only a fraction of the bodies were relocated. Many are believed to still be buried beneath the park and nearby homes reportedly receive ghostly visits. The Henry Treat Rogers Mansion, once located here but now demolished, inspired the story “The Changeling” based on

real events experienced by author Russell Hunter. For an in-depth look into Denver’s paranormal side, take a tour with the Rocky Mountain Paranormal Research Society, led by real paranormal investigators. Learn more at RockyMountainPara normal.com

PHANTOM CANYON ROAD (CRIPPLE CREEK)

Not for the faint of heart, Phantom Canyon Road is a narrow, twisting detour off the Gold Belt Tour Byway, climbing 4,000 feet and passing through the ghost towns of Wilbur, Adelaide and Glenbrook. Once the route of the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad, the road is said to be haunted by the ghost of a 1890s prison inmate, spotted walking the railway just days after his execution, along with other eerie specters that give the road its name.

THE STANLEY HOTEL (ESTES PARK)

Stephen King’s stay at this iconic hotel inspired “The Shining.” Guests often hear children’s laughter in deserted hallways and ghostly piano music from the empty ballroom. The Stanley is so haunted that it offers a Spirited Night Tour, taking visitors to its most haunted spots. The Shining Tour is another mustdo, blending Stephen King lore with ghost stories and a bit of history. See available tours and pricing at StanleyHotel.com/tours-596033 ■

The Stanley is so haunted that it offers a Spirited Night Tour

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The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park.

By Kimberly Blaker

Autumn may not always be thought of as an outdoor season, but it brings plenty of opportunities for bonding and fun in cooler weather. Try some of these activities to make lasting memories with your grandkids.

ENJOY A COLOR TOUR

National parks and forests are the places to be in the fall. Nearly every route up the Grand Mesa offers stunning views. The cooler weather makes it ideal for longer hikes, or for those with younger kids, shorter scenic drives with picturesque views. To avoid car traffic, plan a hike or take an after-school drive..

HAVE A CAMPFIRE COOKOUT

Gather around a campfire for a cozy cookout with hot dogs, hot chocolate, marshmallows and s’mores. Take turns telling stories, or read autumn-themed library books to the youngsters. You might even

Outdoorsy autumn adventures with grandkids

try cooking foil-wrapped veggies or making campfire pies for an extra special treat. Just be sure to check fire restrictions in your area.

ATTEND A SPORTS GAME

Fall means football, and nothing beats the excitement of a live game. Bundle up with blankets and head

of our residents

to a local stadium. Whether you’re heading to Stocker Stadium for high school football or to Mile High Stadium in Denver for a pro game, the thrill is the same. Grab some blankets, bring popcorn and a thermos filled with hot cocoa, then snuggle up to cheer on your team.

VISIT AN ORCHARD

Head to an orchard for apple picking or harvesting other fall fruits. Several local farms offer opportunities for families to pick their own fruit. Your grandkids will love plucking fruit straight from the trees and learning about where their food comes from. After a day of picking, relax with some cider and donut, or set up a picnic among the colorful fall foliage. Many orchards also offer hayrides, corn mazes and other family-friendly activities that can easily turn your outing into an all-day adventure.

MAKE A SCARECROW

What’s fall without a scarecrow on your porch? All you need are a couple of bales of straw, some old clothes and hats. Get creative with its face by using felt, buttons or even a pumpkin for a head. Stuff the scarecrow, tying off the hands, feet and head with string. Why not enter your creation into the Montrose Botanic Gardens’

Scarecrow Festival on October 5-6?

It’s a great way to show off your handiwork and support the gardens. Read more about the event on the Montrose-Delta Calendar, page 44, for details.

WALK IN THE WOODS

With fewer flies and mosquitoes, it’s the perfect time for a peaceful walk in the woods. This is also a great time to teach your grandkids about the changing seasons and the habits of animals as they prepare for winter. Consider bringing along a field guide to identify trees or animal tracks. Don’t forget your binoculars.

LEAF FUN

Remember raking up leaves for your kids to jump in? Now it’s time for your grandkids to join in the fun. Rake up piles to dive into, build forts or even start a leaf fight.

FIND A FESTIVAL

Fall festivals are a great way to celebrate the season. Enjoy food, arts and crafts, games, pony and wagon rides and more. Explore the many local festivals happening across Colorado, like Cedaredge Applefest on October 4-6.

VISIT A PUMPKIN PATCH

No fall season is complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch. Pick your own pumpkin at Moon Farm in Fruita or Punk’s in Delta, explore the corn maze at Studt’s Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze in Grand Junction, or enjoy a hayride at Covered Bridge Ranch in Montrose. Afterward, roast pumpkin seeds for a tasty treat. Rinse, dry and coat the seeds in butter, sprinkle with salt, and bake at 350 degrees until gold -

en brown, stirring occasionally.

BIRD MIGRATION WATCH

As fall fills the air, many birds begin to head south. Sandhill cranes can be found near Steamboat Springs and Craig in the fall. Contact state and national parks for recommended birding locations as well as bird festivals. You might even try contacting the local Audubon societies at gvas.executivecoordinator@ gmail.com or black.canyon.audu bon.society@gmail.com

PLANT PERENNIALS AND BULBS

Get your grandkids involved in gardening by planting perennials and bulbs this fall. Come spring, they’ll be excited to see the flowers they planted bloom. Let them pick out a few plants from the garden store, and get creative by painting rocks to decorate the garden until the flowers sprout.

TAKE A RAILROAD EXCURSION

Admire the blazing fall colors during a scenic railroad excursion. Check out the dates for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, or contact your local travel agency for excursions nearby.

HORSEBACK RIDES

If your grandkids love animals, they’ll enjoy taking in the fall scenery on horseback. Many local outfitters offer guided trail rides through picturesque landscapes.

MAKE A BIRD FEEDER OR HOUSE

Kids will love building bird feeders or houses, then watching birds make use of their handiwork. Bird feeder kits are available at hobby stores, but you can also build from scratch using free online instructions or library books. You can even make it a learning experience by researching the types of birds that visit and teaching your grandkids about their habits and habitats. ■

EXCITEMENT SO CLOSE YOU CAN FEEL

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For over 30 years, Burke, Holguin, & Smith, P.C., formerly Kain & Burke P.C., has specialized in providing quality legal representation to clients throughout the Western Slope. When you want personal attention, experienced representation, and the right solution to your unique problem, call for an appointment today.

Medicare Open Enrollment is here: Don’t let scammers target you

is synonymous with pumpkin spice lattes, Halloween decorations and the kickoff of football season. But it’s also the beginning of Medicare Open Enrollment. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to target seniors.

ESTIMATES

SUGGEST ANNUAL FRAUD LOSSES ARE AROUND $60 BILLION, THOUGH THE TRUE FIGURE MAY BE HIGHER.

Michael P. Burke, Andrew Smith, Stephanie R. Holguin

Medicare fraud is big business for criminals, costing the program billions annually. Estimates suggest annual losses are around $60 billion, though the true figure may be higher. Fraud impacts everyone, as it drains funds from the essential healthcare services Medicare beneficiaries rely on.

The Colorado Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), part of the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), assists Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers in identifying, preventing and reporting healthcare fraud, errors and abuse.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR MEDICARE BENEFITS

According to SMP, you are the first line of defense. Here’s how to protect your benefits:

• Protect your Medicare card: Treat it like your bank card or social security number. Only share your Medicare number with trusted healthcare providers, insurers and people who work on your behalf.

• Beware of unsolicited offers: If someone you don’t know calls or visits your home offering medical services, think twice. Never give personal information to strangers.

• Review your Medicare statements: Check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for unfamiliar services or charges. If you see something you didn’t receive or that your doctor didn’t order, it could be fraud.

• Ask questions: If you notice errors or suspicious charges, contact your healthcare provider immediately to resolve the issue.

HOW TO TELL IF A MEDICARE PLAN SELLER IS LEGITIMATE

Before giving personal or financial information to anyone selling a Medicare plan, ask yourself these questions:

• Are they asking for your credit card or banking information?

Spas, gift stores, art galleries, coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, toys, and more - there’s something for everyone downtown!

• Have they requested your Medicare or Social Security number?

• Are they pressuring you to make an immediate decision?

If the answer is yes to any of these, hang up immediately—it’s likely a scam. Medicare will never call you unsolicited to sell a plan or ask for personal information unless you contacted them first.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG FRAUD

While reviewing your Medicare statements for services, don’t forget to check your prescription drug records. Prescription fraud is a common issue, with Medicare sometimes billed for drugs you never received or for medications that differ from what was prescribed. To prevent prescription fraud:

• Review your Medicare statements closely: Look for discrepancies in your MSN or EOBs.

• Ask questions: If something doesn’t look right, contact your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

WHAT IS SHIP?

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps Medicare enrollees navigate the complex Medicare system by providing free, unbiased and personalized information. SHIP volunteer counselors, such as those at Mesa County RSVP

and Region 10 Area Agency on Aging, are not compensated in any way and do not sell insurance plans. SHIP is supported by donations from individuals and businesses, as well as grants from organizations like the Colorado Division of Insurance (DORA) and the Administration for Community Living (ACL). If you think you’ve encountered fraud, error or abuse, contact a SHIP counselor:

• Mesa County RSVP: 970-243-9839 ext. 1

• Region 10 (Montrose & Delta): 970-765-3129

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT FRAUD

If you suspect fraud, contact the Colorado Senior Medicare Patrol at 888-696-7213 or via email at dora_ seniormedicarepatrol@state.co.us. You can also reach out to Medicare directly by visiting Medicare.gov or calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227). ■

GET INFORMED

Visit BeaconSeniorNews.com/ prevent-medicare-fraud to download the guide “How to Read Medicare Statements,” a helpful PDF created by the U.S. Administration for Community Living and the Department of Health and Human Services.

Doubting Thomas: Exploring the evidence of Christ’s resurrection

By Will Sanborn

Fans of “Seinfeld” still remember some of the great nicknames that were used on the show: Hipster Doofus, Can’t-Stand-Ya, Vegetable Lasagna, Schmoopy, Dr. Pimple Popper MD, the Soup Nazi, Bubble Boy and so many more.

Nicknames are common in real life, too. One that almost everyone knows, even if they don’t know the origin behind it, is “Doubting Thomas.” It describes someone who doesn’t easily believe what they see or hear, even when everyone else does. But there’s an interesting backstory to this nickname.

Thomas was one of the twelve followers of Jesus: Peter, John, Matthew, James and Thomas, among others. The Bible records events from the three years Jesus spent with these men, leading up to his death on the cross. But here’s where it gets interesting.

Within days of his death, people began claiming they had seen Jesus alive again. One report described some of his disciples gathered in a room when Jesus suddenly appeared. Naturally, they were amazed and excited—even overwhelmed.

But here’s the problem: Thomas wasn’t with the group that night. When the others told him about it, he was skeptical. He insisted that unless he could see the nail marks in Jesus’ hands and feet, he

PART 1

IF JESUS CHRIST DID COME BACK FROM THE DEAD, THEN CHRISTIANITY IS UNIQUE AMONG ALL RELIGIONS. EVERY OTHER RELIGION’S LEADER IS DEAD, WITH A KNOWN GRAVESITE.

couldn’t—and wouldn’t—believe that Jesus was alive again. Doubting Thomas, indeed.

A few days later, he got exactly what he asked for. Jesus appeared in person, and this time, Thomas was there. Jesus invited Thomas to touch his wounds and challenged him to stop doubting and believe. This time, Thomas did.

But there’s a more significant question beyond the nickname:

Did Jesus Christ really come back from the dead, or is this just a story meant to inspire?

It’s not unreasonable to be a Doubting Thomas when you hear a story like this. It’s one thing to tell an unbelievable tale; it’s another to prove it. So, does the evidence hold up to scrutiny?

The gospel accounts state that Jesus was arrested and went through several trials by both

Jewish and Roman officials. He was convicted and sentenced to death. The Roman method of capital punishment was crucifixion—tying or nailing the criminal to a wooden cross to suffer a slow and humiliating death.

After Jesus died, his body was wrapped in grave clothes and placed in a tomb carved into the side of a hill. A large stone covered the entrance, and a squad of Roman soldiers was assigned to guard the site against mischief.

But three days later, eyewitness reports began circulating that Jesus Christ was alive, that the grave was empty and that hundreds of people had seen him.

Really? Did this truly happen, or was it all made up? No wonder Thomas had his doubts—this kind of thing just doesn’t happen. But the entire foundation of Christianity hinges on this event.

If Jesus Christ did come back from the dead, then Christianity is unique among all religions. Every other religion’s leader is dead, with a known gravesite. But Christians claim their leader is alive today, which they say proves that he alone is God.

That’s quite a claim. So, is it true or is it false? Next month, we’ll examine how some have tried to explain away this supernatural event. ■

AI everywhere: The surprising ways AI is changing your daily life

Lastyear, I wrote about a new technology that was all the rage—artificial intelligence, or AI. I revisited the topic over the next two months because it was too vast to cover in a single column. My goal was to prepare readers for the flood of AI buzz that was coming.

Based on past market-driving buzzwords such as “HD”, “Next Gen,” “broadband” and “interactive,” I predicted that companies would use AI to market anything. Well, the future is here, and now, they’re not just marketing home appliances, smartphones and computer programs with AI. They’re sticking it on exercise equipment, food packaging and even analog items like reading glasses and camping gear.

Artificial intelligence is a self-defining term—intelligence that is, in fact, synthetic. While I’d love to go down the philosophical and physiological rabbit hole of defining intelligence, almost all definitions apply. Intelligence can involve processing, organizing, remembering, anticipating, recognizing, judging or calculating. But it doesn’t mean “thinking.” Living beings think as part of demonstrating intelligence. However, what we typically measure as “intelligence” on standardized tests often has more to do with recall or task efficiency. Thinking involves abstract considerations like ethics, imagination, critical thinking or creativity.

In other words, artificial intel ligence is programming that uses existing data to produce new data that is derivative, augmented or aggregated based on patterns and past information. AI is not real intelligence, nor is it sentience (feeling emotions and pain) or self-awareness.

Now that AI has become a buzzword in marketing, it’s important to differentiate between its beneficial and irrelevant uses.

As people use AI, the technology tracks their responses, updating its algorithms based on user feedback.

From picnics on the grassy plain, With every crunch, my heart does soar,

Oh fries, I dream of you once more.

Of course, the computer doesn’t appreciate poetry, but it can create a suitable poem by analyzing and aggregating examples humans have labeled as “good poetry.”

• AI can be highly effective for tasks like gathering data, making predictions or generating art and designs based on existing parameters. But AI cannot innovate, empathize or add value beyond the parameters it’s been programmed to consider.

• AI can solve problems, but determining whether those solutions are suitable for the client, market, culture or intended use is a decision only a human can make.

• AI can check for spelling and grammar, organize complex data or generate something as quirky as a tintype photo of Abraham Lincoln holding his therapy octopus on a city bus.

There is no magic or creative intellect behind AI. It analyzes data and produces results based on patterns and user preferences, learning through trial and error.

AI essentially replicates the process humans use to learn a skill or craft: mastering known concepts and adapting them to meet individual needs.

When I asked ChatGPT to write a poem about French fries from the perspective of a pigeon in Central Park, it gave me a poem that might earn a B- in a 12th-grade poetry class:

In Central Park, where shadows play,

I wander in the light of day,

A humble pigeon, eyes alight,

On golden fries, a pure delight. They tumble down like crispy rain,

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

AI can be unsettling for teachers, artists and anyone whose work relies on skill or craft with established rules. But is AI really taking work from humans, or have we built our education and industries around turning humans into machines? This isn’t new—augmenting human work with machines dates back to the earliest tools.

A positive perspective that isn’t discussed much is that AI forces us to re-evaluate how we value intelligence compared to human traits like creativity, emotion, compassion, ethics and relationships.

The value of humanity isn’t in our intelligence. It’s in our ability to recognize that the best answers are not always the right ones, and the most perfectly calculated solution isn’t necessarily the most appropriate. ■

A village for all ages

By Carole Ann McKelvey

For the first time on the Western Slope, an innovative solution to homelessness for both seniors and young adults is now a reality.

The Village on San Juan, a supportive intergenerational housing community, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 2.

This $11.5 million project, spearheaded by Carlton Mason, CEO of CASA of the 7th District, and Eva Veitch, community living service director for Region 10 Area Agency on Aging, is the first of its kind in the U.S.

The goal of The Village is to enrich the lives of seniors and young adults by encouraging intergenerational support.

“The idea had kind of percolated during COVID when [homeless] were being put in hotels,” said

Montrose tackles homelessness with housing that brings seniors and youth together

Mason. “We heard about a senior that was next to one of our CASA kids and learned how they were helping each other and we thought was kind of cool.”

CASA purchased the property with plans to develop it, and then partnered with Region 10 Area Agency on Aging for access to funding for senior housing.

Of The Village's 45 units, 30 are supportive housing with case management, 12 are reserved for those earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and three are designated for bridge housing.

To qualify for supportive housing, residents must be at or below 30% AMI. Some of the supportive housing units come with project-

based vouchers funded by the state to help with rent costs.

ADDRESSING A GROWING CRISIS

The opening of The Village on San Juan comes at a critical time, as the nation faces an alarming rise in homelessness among older adults.

Nearly one in five people experiencing homelessness in the U.S. are 55 or older, according to HUD. In 2020, HUD recorded 580,466 homeless individuals, 18% of whom were seniors. By 2030, homelessness among older adults is projected to nearly triple.

In Colorado, the need is just as urgent. A 2022 study conducted by the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless found that the largest concentrations of those experiencing homelessness were in Mesa, Pueblo and Bent counties,

and 66% of those surveyed had a disability. Seniors accounted for a significant portion of the unhoused population.

Veitch added that this model is poised to take many unhoused individuals off the streets of Montrose and Delta.

A COMMUNITY EFFORT

This sense of community and kindness is the driving force behind The Village and similar intergenerational initiatives. Seniors at risk of homelessness and young

nity Foundation helped make the project a reality.

“It takes some money to even get a picture on a page” and these organizations were instrumental, said Mason. “We also thank Hilltop for being a partner and providing services to our seniors that live in this community.”

Local quilters from the San Juan Quilters, Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado and Columbine Quilters donated curtains and quilts for the homes, while the Montrose Altrusa Club outfitted kitchens in

WE’VE WATCHED SENIOR TENANTS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUNGER PEOPLE AND YOUNGER PEOPLE HELP THEM FILL OUT ONLINE PAPERWORK. WE’RE ONLY A FEW WEEKS IN, BUT SO

adults—many of whom have aged out of foster care—will live side by side, creating a unique dynamic. The Village also includes a staffed community center where residents are encouraged to interact and help one another.

“Imagine a teenager who has his hood up on his car. Don't you think an older gentleman might see that and go out to try to help? The benefits for the young people we serve are potentially off the charts!” said Mason. “We’ve watched senior tenants keeping an eye on younger people and younger people help them fill out online paperwork. We’re only a few weeks in, but so far it’s working.”

The first residents moved in on August 7.

The success of The Village is due in large part to the efforts of local donors, organizations and businesses. Mason praised the involvement of groups such as the Colorado Division of Housing, Montrose County Housing Authority and Hilltop, among many others.

Generous donations facilitated by Western Colorado Community Foundation (WCCF), El Pomar Foundation and Montrose Commu-

FAR IT’S WORKING.

six of the homes and installed two raised vegetable gardens.

CASA helps break the cycle of abuse and neglect by providing specially trained advocates appointed by judges to represent youth and children in family or juvenile court proceedings.

“My heart is always going to be helping youth,” said Mason. “We just put a lot of seniors on our team that are going to help us without even knowing it!” ■

HOW TO APPLY FOR HOUSING

The Village on San Juan is currently accepting applications for supportive housing. Eligible seniors (ages 62+) can contact Hilltop at 970-252-7445, and young adults (ages 18-24) should reach out to CASA at 970-2490337. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be either 62+ or 18-24 years old

• Have an income at or below 30% of the area median income

• Have a disabling condition that limits one or more activities of daily living

• Have a history of homelessness or be exiting an institution without a permanent home.

FREE IN-HOME ASSESSMENT

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• Eliminates

A howling good DJ Wolfman Jack’s mark on radio history

By Randal C. Hill

He couldn’t shapeshift into a wolf, and his real name wasn’t Jack. In fact, when he was born in 1938, Wolfman Jack was known back then simply as Bob Smith from Brooklyn.

Smith, who grew up entranced by radio personalities, wanted to deejay for a living. In doing so, he quickly realized that he would need a unique persona and style to make his mark in an overcrowded and competitive field. Thus, he spent countless hours mimicking the patter of black radio hosts who spun the day’s coolest discs while apparently having a blast on the air.

Brooklynite Bob started his career in the early 1960s when he signed on with WYOU-AM in Newport News, Virginia. Enchanted listeners became convinced that they were grooving with a black hepcat by the name of “Daddy Jules.”

His next move took him to KCIJAM in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he called himself “Big Smith with the Records.” It was here that the horror-movie-loving personality created his “Wolfman Jack” persona, which featured black argot, rapid-fire, offbeat (and often racy) banter and his trademark greeting, “It’s de Wolfman, baybeee!”

His nationwide popularity, however, wouldn’t emerge until he went to work for XERF-AM in northern Mexico. Broadcasting at a staggering 250,000 watts—five times the limit set in the U.S.—the just-over-the-Texas-border signal blasted throughout the southern American landscape each night. The Wolfman’s raspy delivery, eerie howls and demented schtick were often fueled by unfiltered cigarettes and throat-searing whiskey. His rapt listeners grooved to the day’s hottest platters amid spiels for everything from diet pills (made of sugar) to religious tracts and med -

ical “cures.” In the studio, Wolfman was said to be as wild as he sounded, his face contorting, eyes bulging and hands waving as he howled and growled through each shift.

Returning to the States, he drifted from station to station for years. Many listeners found themselves wondering: Just what does this guy actually look like? (The Wolfman believed that remaining unseen added to his mystique.)

Eventually, a group of Kansas City college students offered him enough serious cash for an in-person appearance. He reluctantly agreed, insisting that his payment— all in $20 bills—be brought to his house via a Brinks truck. Later, after arriving at the venue in a limousine, he strolled onstage with prosthetic rubber cheeks, foot-long fingernails, a cape and sunglasses.

Wolfman Jack portrayed himself in the 1973 film “American Graffiti,” where millions of viewers could finally connect a face to the voice. His appearance in George Lucas’ movie led to Wolfman TV commercials for acne cream, bathing suits, stereos and fast-food burgers. By 1974, he was co-hosting NBC-TV’s rock-oriented “Midnight Special.” That same year, “Clap for the Wolfman” gave Canadian rockers Guess Who their final top 10 single. He wrote his autobiography— “Have Mercy: Confessions of the Original Rock and Roll Animal”— shortly before dying of a heart attack in 1995. He was 57 years old. ■

CALENDAR MeSa County

October 3-10

Monuments and Canyons

Plein Air

Watch artists capture the stunning landscapes of the Colorado National Monument and nearby canyons. Visitors can observe the process and interact with the artists. The event ends with an exhibition and sale of the completed artwork.

Times vary | Colorado National Monument | Free | colorado nma.org/events | 970-858-3617

October 4

First Friday at The Art Center

Explore four unique exhibits at The Art Center of Western Colorado featuring local artists, ceramicists and Diné (Navajo) weavings. Highlights include the Brush & Palette Members Show, Junction Clay Arts Guild ceramics, pastels by Beverly Lee, and the “SpiderWoman and Trading Posts” weaving exhibit.

6:30-9 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St. | Free | gjartcenter.org | 970-243-7337

October 5

Steak & Crab Fest

CMU’s Steak & Crab fundraiser features steak, crab legs, shrimp and more. Enjoy live entertainment by

The Oxymorons, inflatable jumps for kids and great prizes.

2 p.m. | 910 N. 12th St. | $85+ | colo radomesa.edu | 970-248-1460

October 4-6

Alice’s Wonderland Ballet

Experience the magic of Alice in Wonderland live on stage as the Colorado West Performing Arts Company presents a two-act ballet featuring professional dancers at the Avalon Theatre.

7 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday | 645 Main St. | $45+ | coloradowestpac.org | 970-314-2226

October 5

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Come out to Colorado Mesa University to support the six million Americans with Alzheimer’s. Proceeds fund research and finding a cure. Registration begins at 9 a.m. 10:30 a.m. | 1455 N. 12th St. | Free | act.alz.org | 720-699-9307

October 5

Human Library®

Join Mesa County Libraries' first Human Library® event at the Central Library. Real people will be on loan as "books" to "readers" for conversations that explore and challenge stereotypes. Learn through personal

stories and candid questions. Registration is required.

2:30-5:30 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St. | Free | mesacountylibraries.org | 970-243-4442

October 6

Learn to Curl

Try your hand at curling! Instruction includes sweeping, sliding and strategy. No experience needed, equipment provided.

5-7 p.m. | 2515 Riverside Pkwy | $20 | $20 | tim_debmenger@hot mail.com | 970-242-7465

October 9

Community Forum:

Empowering Older Adults

Whether you're an older adult or someone eager to support them, join this free conversation at The Art Center to engage with experts discussing estate planning, housing barriers, food insecurity, mental health, veterans' support and more. Refreshments will be provided. Registration encouraged but not required.

5:30-7:30 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St. | Free | communityimpactcouncil.org/ events | 970-986-5819

October 12

Hope Through Homes

Enjoy live performances by Peach Street Revival and Sean Blumhardt and The Boys, local food trucks, family-friendly activities and a silent auction. Proceeds help build affordable homes through Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County.

11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 3047 Stratton Drive | $20 | habitatmesa.org | 970-255-9850

October 12

Empty Bowls Fundraiser

Support Grand Valley Catholic Outreach by choosing a handcrafted ceramic bowl to enjoy a meal of soup and dessert. The bowl serves as a reminder of hunger in the community. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | 245 S. 1st St. | $25 | catholicoutreach.org/ bowls | 970-256-1380

October 13

GJSO: Illuminating Virtuosity

Experience a night of musical excellence at CMU’s Asteria Performing Arts Theatre. Enjoy A Joyous Trilogy by Mason, Ravel’s Piano Concerto featuring Spencer Myer, and Sibelius’ dynamic 5th Symphony. Doors open one hour before the performance, with concessions available before the concert and at intermission.

3-4:30 p.m. | 864 Bunting Ave. | $5$55 | gjso.org | 970-243-6787

October 14 & 21

AARP Smart Drivers Course

Seniors over 55 can become safer and more confident drivers and save money on car insurance after taking this course at Family Health West’s

12-4 p.m. | 225 N. Cherry St., Fruita | $20-$25 | 970-319-0137

October 17-19

BIG Annual Book Sale

Stock up on books for all ages at the Friends of the Mesa County Libraries’ annual Book Sale at First Congregational Church. Explore a wide selection, including rare and collectible books—perfect for winter reading or early holiday shopping.

9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday | 1425 N. 5th St. | Free | mesa countylibraries.org | 970-243-4442

October 18

Harp Twins Rockin’ Halloween Concert

Catch identical twin harpists Camille and Kennerly Kitt at Mesa Theater for a fun-filled Halloween concert featuring spooky songs, comedy and rock favorites for all ages. The Volfgang Twins will join them for an exciting double-drum finale. 7:30 p.m. | 538 Main St. | $26.19+ | mesatheater.com | 970-241-1717

October 18-19

Song Through the Centuries: From Brahms to Beatles

Take a musical journey spanning five centuries as the Western Colorado Chorale performs songs from Brahms’ intimate lieder to the iconic pop hits of the Beatles at Colorado Mesa University’s Love Recital Hall.

7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday | 1100 North Ave. | $21+ | gjso.org | 970-243-6787

October 19

Uptown Art Colony Annual Art Show

Discover a vibrant collection of artwork in oil, watercolor, pastel, collage, graphite and jewelry by local artists at the Uptown Art Colony's annual art show at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Grand Valley. This collaborative group of Grand Junction artists has showcased their talents for over a decade, promoting creativity and community engagement.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 536 Ouray Ave. | Free

October 19

Heritage Festival

Step back in time and experience the sights, sounds and tastes of yesteryear at this family-friendly festival at Cross Orchards Historic Site. Enjoy cider press demonstrations, blacksmithing, fruit packing, Model T rides, old-time laundry and more! Cider will be available for purchase from Talbott’s Farm. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 3073 F Road | $7 seniors/veterans, $6 kids | mowc. co | 970-242-0971

October 24

History Talk & Creative Writing Open Mic

Poet Trish Hopkinson will share poems from early issues of The Palisade Tribune and discuss how the newspaper inspired her latest project. Come early and sign up to share your own history-inspired poems or stories during the open mic. This event is sponsored by Palisade

Historical Society and takes place at The Ordinary Fellow Winery. 6 p.m. | 202 Peach Ave., Palisade | Free (donations appreciated) | historicpalisade.org | 970-812-3064

October 25-26

Western Slope Coin Club Coin Show

Explore, buy and sell at the Western Slope Coin Club's annual show at the Clarion Inn. Coin enthusiasts can meet, trade and learn more about rare and collectible coins.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday & 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday | 755 Horizon Drive | Free | 970-640-3765

October 26

Downtown Spooktacular

Bring the kiddos downtown for an afternoon of trickor-treating, fun activities and live performances at the annual Spooktacular event. Main Street will be closed for safe ty, so plan extra time for parking. 4-6 p.m. | Downtown Grand Junction | Free | downtowngj.org | 970-255-4923 ■

CLUBS MeSa County

Altrusa International Palisade meets at Veterans Memorial Park, 120 W. 8th St., Palisade. 4th Monday | 6 p.m. | 970-261-5316

American Association of University Women programs advocate for women and girls.

2nd Monday | 11:30 a.m. | 970-2419684

American Legion #37, Robbins-McMullin Post, meets at Veterans Memorial Park, 120 W. 8th St., Palisade. 2nd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 303-8088717

Bookcliff Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at First Baptist Church, 720 Grand Ave. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-257-7664

Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at 636 31 Road. Call ahead. Fridays | 12:30 p.m. | 970-244-9989

Brush & Palette Club meets at The Art Center, 1803 N. 7th St. 3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | brushand paletteclub.org

Chatfield Country Kickers meets for square and round dancing at VFW #3981, 503 1/2 Florence Road. 1st & 3rd Saturdays | 7 p.m. | 970434-0868

Chinle Cactus Club meets at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 536 Ouray Ave. Most 2nd Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. | chinlecactusclub.org

Colorado Archaeological Society meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. 4th Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970261-6422

Colorado Mountain Club offers hiking and outdoor activities. cmc.org | office@cmc.org

Colorado West Quilters’ Guild meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2452522

Commemorative Air Force, Rocky Mountain Wing, honors military aviation at air shows and its museum at 780 Heritage Way, Gate 10. 2nd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 970-2560693 | rmwcaf.org

Community Bible Study meets at First Pres. Church, 3940 27¹/₂ Road. Thursdays | 9:30 a.m. | 303-2634391 | grandjunction.cbsclass.org

Cribbage Lite plays at IHOP, 2420 Hwy 6 & 50.

Tuesdays | 2 p.m. | 970-201-7823

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, promotes historic preservation, education and patriotism. Meets monthly | DAR.org

Desert Vista Garden Club is open to women. Call for location.

1st Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 720-8405502

Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Desert West Chapter, meets at Appleton Christian Church, 2510 I-70 Frontage Road.

1st Tuesday | 9:30 a.m. | 970-2432230

Explorer’s Bible Study, open to all women, meets at Redlands Community Church, 2327 S. Broadway. Wednesdays | 9:30 a.m. | 970-2600880

Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981, 503 1/2 Florence Road.

2nd Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 970-4340868

Friendship Force of Western Colorado is a worldwide travel exchange club. Call for more info.

3rd Saturday | 2 p.m. | 970-6292849

Grand Junction Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Rd.

2nd & 4th Thursdays | 7 p.m. | grandjunctionrockclub.org

Grand Junction Modeleers flying club meets at 427 Sherman Drive. 2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | gjmodeleers. com

Grand Junction Stamp Club meets at White Star Electric, 803 Winters Ave.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-986-1502

Grand Junction Toastmasters promotes leadership skills. Tuesdays at 6:45 a.m. | Thursdays at 12 p.m. | 970-241-1900

Grand Mesa Jeep Club meets at

Fiesta Guadalajara, Grand Junction. 1st Monday | 6 p.m. | 970-773-8051 | grandmesajeepclub@gmail.com

Grand Slam Bridge Club plays at Redlands Community Center, 2436 Broadway. Mondays | 12:15 p.m. | 970-2168807 | sharon7nt@gmail.com

Grand Valley Kennel Club meets in March, June, September, December. 3rd Monday | 6:30 p.m. | grand valleykennelclub.org | 970-256-1938

Grand Valley Knights Car Club meets at Spoons Bistro & Bakery. Saturdays | 7 a.m. | 970-462-6762

Grand Valley Pets Alive reduces pet overpopulation through spay/ neuter programs. Meets at Church of the Nativity, 2175 Broadway. 3rd Wednesday | 2 p.m. | 970-4627554 | grandvalleypetsalive.org

Grand Valley Valor Quilters (Quilts of Valor) meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50.

3rd Monday | 9:30 a.m. | 970-2700804 | valorquilters@gmail.com

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. First four Wednesdays | 1 p.m. | 970-245-8817

Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. 2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-245-8817

Great Old Broads for Wilderness inspires activism to preserve and protect wilderness and wild lands. 970-986-8129 | marymccutchan4@ gmail.com

Guitar Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St. Mondays | 6 p.m. | revkevgj@gmail. com | 970-778-5473

Guys’ Giving Club meets in February, May, August and November at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St. 1st Tuesday | 5:15 p.m. | 970-3617478 or 970-270-6184

Humanists Doing Good focuses on good deeds and establishing community for the nonreligious. meetup.com/humanists-doing-good | jessebond008@gmail.com

Kiwanis Club (GJ) meets at the Warehouse, 2565 American Way. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664

Knights of Columbus #1062 meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 230 N. 3rd St.

2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-270-6162

Knights of Columbus #13621 meets at Immaculate Heart of Mary, 790 26 1/2 Road.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-640-3263

Masonic Mesa Lodge #55 AF & AM meets at 2400 Consistory Ct. 1st Thursday | 6 p.m. | 970-245-2277 | mesa55@masonicfamilygj.org

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at Keller Williams, 2474 Patterson Road. Check website to confirm meetings.

2nd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 303-5494398 | mesacountygenealogy.org

Mesa Fiber Arts Guild meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St. 4th Saturday | 10 a.m. | mesafiber artsguild.org

Military Officers Association of America meets quarterly at DoubleTree by Hilton, 743 Horizon Dr. 970-241-8714

Native American Cultural Program meets at Crossroads United Methodist Church, 599 30 Road. 2nd Wednesdays | 4 p.m. | 970-4334763

Newcomers Club welcomes residents old and new at Grand Valley Event Center, 2400 Consistory Ct. 2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 419450-9438 | gjnewcomers@gmail. com

Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment and grace for adults 60+, meets at Koinonia, 730 25 Road. 2nd & 4th Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-433-7799 | cslgj.org

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-208-7228

Petroleum & Mining Club meeting locations vary.

3rd Thursday | 719-221-9456 |

grandjunctionpmc.com

Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques. Meets monthly | 970-256-9580

Red Hat Society: Feeling Good and Having Fun meets for fun activities throughout the month. 970-250-6966 | Lfitch50@gmail.com | westerncoloradoredhatters.com

River City Singles, for adults over 50, meets weekly at the Moose Lodge, 567 25 1/2 Road, with activities throughout the month.

Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 970-261-2232

Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club. Wednesdays | 12 p.m. | 503-551-6117

Socially Active Single Seniors: Meet new friends and stay active, whether you’re new in town or a long-time resident and over 65. Meetup.com/socially-active-singleseniors-grand-junction

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets for food at Picture Ranch Clubhouse, 3251 E Road.

3rd Saturdays | 1 p.m. | 970-2605381 | vestafjelllodge.org

Stammtisch, a German American Club, meets at the Rockslide downtown. Speaking German is optional. Last Tuesday | 5 p.m. | 970-209-9241 | jkwitt811@gmail.com

Stand for the Constitution meets at Appleton Christian Church, 2510 I-70 Frontage Road.

Mondays | 6 p.m. | acelliott3082@ gmail.com

Sunset Slope Quilters meets at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 27 1/2 Rd. 2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. | 612-2373491 | sunsetslopequilters.com

Sweet Adelines, Grand Mesa A Capella, rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Mondays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-216-8069 | grandmesaacappella.com

Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at 2328 Monument Road.

4th Tuesdays | 7 p.m. | thunder mountaincameraclub.org

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Valley Events Center, 2400 Consistory Ct. Thursdays | 6 p.m. | 970-261-1670

United Women in Faith meets at First United Methodist Church, 522 White Ave. 1st Thursday | 12 p.m. | 970-216-5400

Veterans of Foreign Wars #1247

Auxiliary meets at 1404 Ute Ave. 3rd Sunday | 2 p.m. | 970-2429940

Veterans of Foreign Wars #3981 meets at 503 1/2 Florence Road. 1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 970778-8242

WARP CORE Rocketry Club welcomes all who are interested in hobby rocketry.

WARPCORErocketry.com

Women’s Giving Club meets in February, May, August, November at the Art Center, 1803 N. 7th St.

1st Monday | 5:15 p.m. | 970-2606140

Western Colorado Amateur

Radio Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St. 2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | w0rrz.org

Western Colorado Artists Guild meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St. Members take turns leading art classes. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-6402751

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at the Central Library. 1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-6281262 | wcacastronomy.org

Western Slope Coin Club meets at the Elks Lodge, 249 S. 4th St. 4th Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-4179025

Western Slope Model Yacht Club meets at Canyon View Park April through October.

Fridays & Saturdays | 10 a.m. | 303-503-3978 ■

C IN SHOW

BEACON BITS MeSa County

Donate and double your impact for Colorado National Monument

Support the Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA) in preserving this cherished landmark for future generations. Donations help fund vital projects that protect the monument’s ecosystem and ensure it remains a place of enjoyment for all. Thanks to a partnership with the Western Colorado Community Foundation, every dollar you give through October 15 will be matched up to $60,000. For more information, visit coloradonma.org or call 970-858-3617, ext. 30.

Community Hospital earns spot on list of top recommended hospitals Community Hospital has once again been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare as one of Colorado’s top recommended hospitals, based on Hospital Consumer Assessment of

Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The hospital is one of only 15 in the state to make the 2024 list, which highlights hospitals patients are most likely to recommend. The honor comes on the heels of Community Hospital receiving a 5-star quality rating from CMS, reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional care. For more information, visit yourcom munityhospital.com

City begins annual leaf removal program for residents

The City of Grand Junction’s annual leaf removal program will begin October 7 and run through December 12. This free service is available to single-family residences within city limits and aims to prevent clogged stormwater drains by eliminating leaf build-up. Collected leaves are taken to the Mesa County Or-

HopeWest welcomes

new chief

development officer

HopeWest is excited to announce the appointment of Ruth Frazier, CFRE, as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). Frazier brings nearly 25 years of fundraising experience, much of it in the health and senior care sectors, including roles at two large hospices. As CDO, she will cultivate partnerships and lead strategies for diverse revenue streams while keeping HopeWest’s mission at the forefront. Frazier succeeds Deb Horwitz, who served as CDO for 15 years. During her tenure, Horwitz raised nearly $40 million to support HopeWest’s care programs. For more information about HopeWest and ways to give, visit HopewestCO.org/ways-to-donate.

ganic Materials Composting facility. Residents will receive postcards with their assigned rake-out dates. Leaves must be placed 18 inches from the curb by 7 a.m. on the scheduled day. Only leaves and pine

needles will be collected. For more information, call 970-256-4111.

Call for manuscripts for Western Colorado Voices Anthology Writers are invited to submit their

SHARE ENJOY LAUGH SHINE

Deb Horwitz, left, and Ruth Frazier, right.

work for Western Colorado Voices, an anthology of stories, essays and poetry from November 1, 2024 through January 31, 2025. Full submission guidelines and pay rates will be shared at the Writer’s Night event at The Art Center in Grand Junction, 1803 N. 7th St., on Tuesday, October 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. RSVP is appreciated. For more information or to RSVP, visit westerncoloradowriters.org.

GJ Brush & Palette Club show opens October 4

More than 70 local artists will display their creations in the 77th annual Grand Junction Brush & Palette Club’s show at the Art Center, 1803 N. 7th St. The exhibit, held from October 4 to November 1, will showcase work in all mediums from artists of all ages and skill levels. The event kicks off with an opening reception from 6:30-9 p.m. on Friday, October 4. The reception is free and open to the public, with a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. This year’s show will be judged by Bev Lee, a mostly

self-taught artist working in both pastels and oils. Her work has been published in various publications. Prizes will be awarded in advanced, intermediate and beginner categories, along with best of show. For details, visit gjartcenter.org or call 970-243-7337.

Patriot Guard Riders seek Wreaths Across America sponsors

The Patriot Guard Riders are seeking sponsors for the Wreaths Across America campaign, honoring veterans by placing wreaths at the Old Veterans Cemetery in Orchard Mesa and the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Grand Junction. The wreath ceremony will take place on December 14 at 10 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery and is open to the public. Sponsorship options include individual wreaths for $17 and family (4 wreaths for $68), with additional sponsorship opportunities for businesses. For more information, call 970-250-1174. Sponsorships are tax-deductible. ■

By Cloie Sandlin

What is one item on your bucket list you’d like to accomplish before the end of this year?

Sharon Woelfie

“We’re going to Bourbon and Beyond in Louisville, Kentucky. It’s a four-day music festival with a really good lineup—Sting, The Record Company, JJ Grey, Matchbox Twenty, Samantha Fish.”

Medicare Open Enrollment

Oct. 15 - Dec. 7 Oct. 15 - Dec. 7

Review all your Medicare plans based on your current health care needs and financial circumstances to ensure your coverage is both suitable and costeffective for YOU.

Comparing plans can reduce out-ofpocket expenses. Since premiums, deductibles and co-payments vary widely and change from year to year, finding a plan that best matches your personal needs can lead to significant savings.

Medicare plans update their offerings annually. Open enrollment provides you an opportunity to discover and utilize new benefits such as enhanced wellness programs or broader networks of healthcare providers that may not have been available before.

At RSVP/SHIP, our State Certified Medicare Counselors are prepared to empower you with the information you need to ensure you’re on the best plans for YOU as we move into 2025. Call 970-243-9839, x1 to schedule your free Medicare evaluation or come see us during our Walk-in Thursdays from 9 am to 2 pm throughout Open Enrollment!

YOUR COVERAGE plans change annually

Marilyn Jacquez

“I’ve been working on a garden all summer and am starting my fall garden. This is a new hobby for me. We had a garden years ago and let it go when we were too busy working. I’m clearing out a whole spot and making a little sanctuary—a peaceful place where I can be outside and watch the bees and butterflies. I also want to get my house in order, but if I’m outside I can wait to do the housework until winter.”

Montrose & MeDelta Sa County

Adult Children of Alcoholics meets at New Life Church, 1350 N. 7th St. Leave a message if no answer.

Wednesdays, 10:15-11:30 a.m. | Sundays, 4:15-5 p.m. | 970-201-2446

Alzheimer’s Association’s in-person support group meets at 2232 N. 7th St., Suite B1.

4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. | 720-699-9307

Art for the Grieving Heart meets at HopeWest Center for Hope & Healing, 2754 Compass Dr. Registration required, but it is free to attend. Mondays | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-201-2446

Art of Mindfulness, a meditation group for veterans, meets at Western Region One Source.

Fridays | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-2573760

Colorado Post Polio Organization provides a wide range of programs and services to empower and support individuals affected by polio. 720-220-8413 | easterseals.com | jimlcarr@msn.com

Compassionate Friends offers friendship to bereaved families at Messiah Lutheran Church, 840 N. 11th St.

1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-3615017

Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 28¹/4 Road. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Valley Wellness, 605 28 1/4 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30 p.m. | 970-2632661

Drop-in Grief Group is offered at HopeWest Center for Hope & Healing, 2754 Compass Dr. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays | 12-1 p.m. | 970-257-2390

Gamblers Anonymous meets at The Meeting Hall.

Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719

Guitars for Vets offers a welcoming space for veterans to play together at Western Region One Source.

Tuesdays | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760

ARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St.

3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 970-7789274 | heartbeatgj.com

Memory Café, for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia, meets at Cappella, 628 26 ¹/₂ Road.

1st Tuesday | 4:30-6 p.m. | 970-822-7070

Mending Hearts, a 10-week group for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one, meets at HopeWest’s Ferris Care Center. Call for next session info.

Mondays | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-2572390

Men’s Grief Support Group meets in room 101 at HopeWest’s Ferris Care Center, 3090 N. 12th St. 2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-2572390

National Alliance on Mental Illness meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1210 17 ¹/₂ Road in Fruita. 4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | NAMI WS.org | 970-462-3989

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets in the conference room at Freedom Institute, 930 Main St. Thursdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2162232 | tammytway@gmail.com

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St.

1st Wednesday | 3-4:30 p.m. | 970201-6952

Pet Loss Therapy Group, guided by professionals, meets at HopeWest Center for Hope & Healing, 2754 Compass Dr., Suite 300. 2nd Friday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-2572390

who grew up in alcoholic or dysfunctional homes, meets at Alano Club, 404 Glenwood Ave. Fridays | 1:30 p.m. | 970-986-7186

Spousal & Partner Loss Group is offered at HopeWest. 1st Tuesday, 6-7:30 p.m. (2754 Compass Dr.) | 2nd Wednesday, 1-2:30 p.m. (3090 N. 12th St.) | 970-257-2390

St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets at St. Mary’s Hospital. Call for more info.

3rd Friday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-298-1980

Tai Chi for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source. Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-257-3760

Thyroid Support Group meets quarterly at Grand Valley Wellness, 605 28 1/4 Road.

January, April, July, October | 5 p.m. | 970-263-2661

TOPS for weight loss meets at Grace Point Church, 606 28 ¹/4 Road. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 970-523-0241

TOPS 209 for weight loss meets at Crossroads United Methodist Church, 599 30 Road. Thursdays | 5:30 p.m. | 720-278-8537

TOPS 458 for weight loss meets at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B ½ Road. Tuesdays | 1 p.m. | 970-628-4981 or 970-852-5880

Overeaters Anonymous for people with compulsive eating and food behaviors, meets at Unity Church, 2793 Skyline Ct., Unit C. Saturdays | 9-10 a.m. | 970-250-8435

Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only meets at Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2830 Riverside Pkwy. Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 970-263-8986

R.A.N.G.E., for vets with traumatic brain injuries/memory issues, meets at Western Region One Source. Thursdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-257-3760

Veterans Caregiver Group (virtual) meets virtually through the Alzheimer’s Association. Call for details. 1st Tuesday | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-387-6067

Reformers Unanimous, a faithbased recovery program, meets at Landmark Baptist Church, 1600 Ute Ave. Transportation may be available. Fridays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-200-2510

Serenity Seekers ACA-DF, a big red book/step study group for adults

Vets for Vets support group meets at Western Region One Source. Fridays | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-2573760 ■

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Registration is required for all activities.

To register for programs, call 970-858-0360 or visit Fruita.org/parksrec/page/seniors

SPECIAL EVENTS

Movie in the Park Watch “Hook” at the Civic Center. No registration required.

Dusk | Oct. 4 | Free | 325 Aspen St.

Terri's Retirement Party

Celebrate the retirement of Terri Ahern, our hiking queen! Bring your favorite adventure photos for Terri. 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Oct. 8 | Free Halloween Party

Get your costumes ready for an afternoon of live music, dancing and refreshments! Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes. Register by October 14.

3-5 p.m. | Oct. 18 | $30

Active Newcomer’s Social

Looking to join an active group of Fruita seniors? Stop by the Senior Center for this fun social event.

5-7 p.m. | Oct. 23 | Free

FOOD

Meals on Wheels

Call 970-298-9844 to reserve your meal by 4 p.m. the previous business day.

2 p.m. | Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Senior Potluck

Bring a shareable dish or pay $3 at the door. Pre-register to ensure enough food for all. Bring a wrapped gift for bingo or bunco.

12 p.m. | Oct. 3 & 17 | $3

Soup & Stars

Enjoy a movie, soup and great company at the Senior Center.

Register by October 22.

1-4 p.m. | Oct. 25 | $5

Food for Thought: Halloween Treats

Bring your favorite treat or recipe.

1 p.m. | Oct. 28 | Free

HIKES & TRIPS

Trips begin at the Fruita Senior Center unless otherwise noted.

Trip: Rim Rock Drive

Embark on a scenic tour through Colorado National Monument, with stops to explore hidden gems and enjoy a picnic lunch at the Visitors Center. Includes transportation and Jimmy John’s lunch.

9:30 a.m. | Oct. 2 | $20

Riverbend Park

Explore the history of Riverbend Park on a guided hike with a horse carriage ride provided by JR’s Carriage Service.

9 a.m. | Oct. 8 | $10 (bring cash)

Trip: Ouray Shopping Day

Shop ‘til you drop in the picturesque town of Ouray. Includes transportation; lunch at your own expense.

9:30 a.m. | Oct. 16 | $25

Hike: Dinosaur Hill

Take a one-mile loop hike on Dinosaur Hill, where Elmer Riggs discovered the Apatosaurus.

10 a.m. | Oct. 22 | $5

MUSIC & ART

Painting with Pavia

Learn how to paint step-bystep with artist Pavia Justinian. Supplies included.

2-4 p.m. | Oct. 25 | $15 ■

To register for these programs, call 970-254-3866 or visit GJParksAndRec.org

SPECIAL EVENTS

Water Lights at Night

Watch hundreds of lanterns illuminate the Las Colonias Butterfly Pond. Lantern kits are available for purchase and food trucks will be on-site.

5:30 p.m. | Oct. 12 | $7 single kit, $36 six-pack | Butterfly Pond at Las Colonias Park

Holiday Light Tour

Register early—this event fills up fast!

Enjoy holiday goodies, hot chocolate and live entertainment before hopping on a school bus to see Grand Junction’s best holiday light displays.

5:15-8:15 p.m. | Dec. 4 | $8 | Lincoln Park Barn

Chocolate Walk

Experience the holiday charm of downtown Grand Junction during this guided walking tour. Choose between an Art on the Corner or History Tour. The first 100 to register receive a commemorative mug filled with Enstrom’s hot chocolate! 5:30 p.m. | Dec. 6 | $15 | Main Street

FITNESS

Gentle Yoga

Develop flexibility of mind and body in this yoga class designed for active beginners and above.

8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8

Tai Chi for Health

Learn the slow, circular movements of Tai Chi to improve health and reduce stress.

8:30-9:30 a.m. (Beginner), 9:30-10:30 a.m. (Intermediate) | Wednesdays & Thursdays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8

SilverSneakers SPLASH Aqua Aerobics

Join these moderate-intensity classes incorporating pool noodles, paddles and more.

8:30-9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | $5 drop-in | Orchard Mesa Pool

DANCING

Line Dancing

Get your toes tapping! Learn choreographed dances to country music and more. The first 45 minutes cover basic steps, while the last hour ramps up. No partner needed.

12:15-2 p.m. | Mondays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6 drop-in ■

Senior Recreation Center activities

550 Ouray Ave., Grand Junct. 970-243-7408

Open to adults 50 and older 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

MONDAY

9:00 a.m. Cribbage & Games 12:00 p.m. Canasta 1:00 p.m. Card Bingo

TUESDAY

8:00 a.m. Pinochle (DD) 9:00 a.m. Pool Tournament & Games 1:00 p.m. Bingo

WEDNESDAY

9:00 a.m. Games 9:30 a.m. Pool 1:00 p.m. Pinochle Call 970-243-7408 before 9 a.m. to play pinochle

THURSDAY

9:00 a.m. Games 12:00 p.m. Pokeno 1:00 p.m. Rummikub

FRIDAY

9:00 a.m. Pool Tournament & Games 12:00 p.m. Canasta 12:45 p.m. Bridge

SATURDAY

9:00 a.m. Games 1:00 p.m. Bingo

October 1

CALENDAR Montrose & Delta

5-piece supergroup. Advance tickets are $25.

Family Caregiver Summit

Empower your caregiving journey at the Family Caregiver Summit at the Montrose Pavilion. Gain expert advice from BEACON columnist Laird Landon on how to talk to your loved one’s doctors and explore the emotional side of caregiving with Carrie Bauer as she discusses caregiver grief. Dive deeper into important topics like dementia, hospice care, Medicaid and more during interactive breakout sessions.

7:30 p.m. | 33 N. Uncompahgre Ave., Montrose | $25-$30 | healthy rhythm.net

October 4-6

1-4:30 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | Free | family-care giver.org

October 3-6

Edge of Cedars Art Show

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Edge of Cedars Art Show during Applefest weekend at the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center. This non-juried, judged show features works from artists of all ages and mediums. Many pieces are available for purchase, and there is no charge to browse.

Times vary | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | Free | gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

October 3 & 9

Nutrition Myth-Buster Class

Separate nutrition fact from fiction at this free myth-busting class at Delta Health. Topics include weight loss myths, alkaline water, co-enzyme Q and whether all fats are unhealthy. Call to register.

12-1 p.m. & 5-6 p.m. Thursday | 1011 a.m. & 1-2 p.m. Wednesday | 1501 E. 3rd St., Building C, Delta | Free | 970-874-6410

October 4

Derek Frank Live at Healthy Rhythm Art Gallery

Get ready for funky ’70s-inspired instrumental jams by Derek Frank, former bass player for Gwen Stefani and Shania Twain, along with his

Cedaredge Applefest

Get ready for a weekend of fun at Cedaredge’s signature festival. From live music and arts and crafts booths to delicious food vendors, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chili cook-off, motorcycle show and countless other activities. Visit the website for a full schedule of events

All day | Cedaredge | Free | cedar edgeapplefest.com | 970-856-3123

October 4-12

The Unsinkable Molly Brown

Learn about the life of Colorado’s iconic Molly Brown with Meredith Willson’s Broadway classic. Presented by Thunder Mountain Players, this re-imagined production will take place at the historic Egyptian Theater in Delta.

7:30 p.m. on October 4, 5 & 11 | 2 p.m. October 12 | 452 Main St., Delta | $22 | deltaegyptian.org

October 5

Sing Us a Song…You’re the Piano Man

Enjoy the timeless hits of Billy Joel with Jim Witter and his band at the Delta County Performing Arts & Education Center. Enjoy classics like “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl” and “New York State of Mind,” along with lesser-known gems, all accompanied by Witter’s signature videos.

7 p.m. | 822 Grand Ave., Delta | $25 | concertassociation.net/ DeltaCo | 970-835-4480

October 5 West Elk Challenge Trail Marathon

Starting at Crawford Reservoir State Park, the route ascends through the Gunnison National Forest, reaching the summit of Inter-Ocean Pass before descending to Paonia along the Gunnison River. This event is a fundraiser for the Nature Connection’s Scholarship Fund, enhancing educational programs for kids and families.

7 a.m. | 40468 CO-92, Crawford | $85-$125 | westelkchallenge.com | bgraves@deltaschools.com | 970-872-5910

October 5-6

Scarecrow Festival

Dress up and enjoy fall festivities at the Montrose Botanic Gardens. The event features face painting, crafts and a silent auction of creative scarecrows. All scarecrows will be entered into a silent auction with the proceeds going to support the gardens. Full scarecrow creation guidelines are available on the website.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | Free (donations welcome) | montrose gardens.org | info@montrose gardens.org

October 11-13

Big B’s Cider Fest

Sip, savor and celebrate fall with crisp, refreshing cider at Delicious Orchards in Hotchkiss. This celebration features hay rides and kids activities, cider tastings and live music by Jesse Roper, Humbird, Soul Candy, Mojo Birds and more. All day | 39120 Hwy 133, Hotchkiss | Free | bigbs.com | 970-527-1110

October 12

Bosom Buddies 5K Walk/ Run & 10K Run

Run or walk to support local breast cancer patients at Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group’s annual 5K at the Montrose Pavilion. Preregister online for $35, or register at 8 a.m. on the day for $40. All proceeds support local breast cancer patients.

9 a.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | $35-$40 | bosom buddiesswc.org | 970-252-2777

October 12

High Altitude Harvest Festival

Learn how to extend your garden’s growing season and enjoy the harvest well into winter. Featuring expert presentations, local produce vendors, live music by Rob Wolcott and food trucks.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | Free (donations welcome) | gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

October 12

Croptoberfest

Join Mandee, the UnCrafty Crafter, for a day of scrapbooking fun, door prizes, lunch and demonstrations at First Presbyterian Church in Montrose. Attendees receive a special gift and early birds get extra perks. Bring your drink of choice and a snack to share for additional door prize tickets. 10 a.m. | 1840 E. Niagara Road, Montrose | Prices vary | theun craftycrafter.org/scrapbook ing-workshop-and-retreats

October 12 & 26

Saturday Night Dances

Hit the dance floor at the Senior Center Ballroom for an evening of

live music and fun! Dance to New Vision on October 12 and Ghost River on October 26. All ages are welcome!

7-10 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | Free

October 16

Free Flu Shot Clinic

Stop the flu bug with a free flu shot at one of three locations: Olathe Community Park, Montrose County Event Center and Basin Clinic. High-dose flu shots are available while supplies last. 3-7 p.m. | Free | montroseflu clinic.com | 970-252-4505

October 17-18

Alice’s Wonderland Ballet

Experience the magic of Alice in Wonderland live on stage as the Colorado West Performing Arts Company presents a two-act ballet featuring professional dancers at the Montrose Pavilion.

7 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | $23+ | coloradowestpac. org | 970-314-2226

October 26-27

October 19

Peace, Love & Murder

Join the Montrose Center for the Arts and Magic Circle Players for a ’60s murder mystery evening featuring dinner, a cash bar and a silent auction at the Elks Lodge. Dress in your grooviest duds and enjoy cocktails at 5 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. This fundraising event supports the Montrose Center for the Arts.

5 p.m. | 801 S. Hillcrest, Montrose | $85-$90 | montrosecenterforarts. com | 970-787-9428

October 25

Blue Sage Concert Series

Relax to the beautiful sounds of pianist Susan Ellinger and violinist Brian Krinke as they deliver a stunning classical performance at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts.

7 p.m. | 228 Grand Ave., Paonia | bluesage.org | 970-527-7243

October 31

Candy Crawl

Bring your little ghosts and goblins for a fun afternoon of trick-or-treating at over 50 participating downtown Montrose businesses. Don’t miss the Trunk-or-Treat by the Police Department on South First Street. 3-6 p.m. | Downtown Montrose | Free | montrosedowntown.com

LAUGH! Saturday Morning Soundtracks

Take a trip down memory lane with a lively concert of iconic cartoon and video game music, sure to delight audiences of all ages. Under the baton of Troy Raper, this lively performance will transport you back to those cherished Saturday mornings.

7 p.m. Saturday & 3 p.m. Sunday | 1800 Pavilion Drive | $20 | valleysymphony.net | 970-765-8323 ■

CLUBS Montrose & Delta

Alpine Photography Club meets in room 100, at CMU Montrose. 2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com

Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at Olathe United Methodist Church. Thursdays | 7 p.m. | 970-210-1793

Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets at Montrose Senior Center. Thursdays | 1 p.m. | 970-323-5860

Citizen’s Climate Lobby meets at the Montrose Public Safety Complex, 434 S. 1st St. 1st Monday | 5 p.m. | 970-765-9095 | chapmanjanet@yahoo.com

Crafternoon members knit and crochet projects at Montrose Regional Library to donate to charities. Thursdays | 11 a.m. | 970-249-9656

Crafty Chatty members work on craft projects at the Montrose Senior Center. Bring your own materials. Tuesdays | 9:45 a.m. | 970-249-7198

Columbine Quilters gather at 4 Hilcrest Plaza Way, Montrose. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-4623849 | millsappscoui@gmail.com

Delta Hub-Wheelers Square Dance Club dances in the afternoons. Call or email for details. 1st & 3rd Saturdays | 970-773-4495 | deltawriter47@gmail.com

SUPPORT GROUPS

HopeWest Bereavement Book

Club members heal through discussions about death and grief from literary works at Delta Library. 3rd Thursday | 2-4 p.m. | 970-8749630 | deltalibraries.org

Bosom Buddies breast cancer support group meets at 645 S. 5th St., Montrose.

Wednesdays | 12-12:50 p.m. | 970252-2777

Caregivers Support Group meets at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave. 2nd & 4th Mondays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-240-3714 | bucyc222@gmail.com

Caregiver Support Group

Montrose meets at US Bank, 1500 E. Oak Grove. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 1 & 3 p.m. |

Digging Your Roots Genealogy Group meets at Cedaredge Library. Last Friday | 10:30 a.m. | 970-3997674 | deltalibraries.org

Friendship Quilters meets at Montrose County Events Center. 4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 970-417-4842

Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society can help you research your family history at the Montrose Genealogy Center. Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m. | 970-240-1755

Gold Prospectors of America meets at Olathe Community Center. 3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-2509152 | wcgpaa.org

Golden Circle of Friends socializes over lunch at Montrose Senior Center. Tuesdays & Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

Golden Circle Senior Dance Club hosts dances at the Montrose Pavilion. All ages welcome.

2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | $10 | sanjuandanceclub@gmail.com

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 17800 6400 Road. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-2090981 | aheadaviation@outlook.com

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Delta Public Library. 3rd Friday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-417-6142

970-275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Delta meets at Delta County Memorial Hospital, meeting room A. 1st & 3rd Fridays | 1 p.m. | 970275-2138

Dementia Caregivers Delta (ASEDD) meets at Crossroads Senior Living, 1380 Aspen Way. Thursdays | 1:30 p.m. | 970-5100724

Dementia Caregivers Cedaredge (ASEDD) meets at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 1:30 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Dementia Caregivers Hotchkiss (ASEDD) meets at Hotchkiss Town Hall, 276 Main St. 2nd & 4th Wednesday | 1:30 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Montrose Family Search Center offers free genealogy help at 1521 Hillcrest Drive. Tuesdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Wednesdays & Thursdays 1-4 p.m. | 970249-4739

Montrose Elks #1053 hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Meets monthly | 970-249-4852 | elks1053@mont roseelks.org

Montrose Library Book Club meets in the library meeting room. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-249-9656 | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970-7650599 | mmaaflyer@gmail.com

Montrose Newcomers & Neighbors meets at the Montrose Senior Center, September through May. 1st Wednesday | 10 a.m. | 970-4174236 | bethcav25@gmail.com

Montrose Woman’s Club organizes events to raise funds for charity and meets September through May at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose. 3rd Mondays | 11:30 a.m. | 970-901-8743

Morningstar Therapy Dogs promotes therapy dog programs and visits in Montrose.

2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-5969343 | morningstartherapydogs. weebly.com

Movement Club promotes free Tai Chi/Qi Gong simplified flow classes at Delta United Methodist Church. Tuesdays & Thursdays | 9:30 a.m. | 970-216-5753

Rock Wranglers rockhounding club meets at Calvary Baptist Church in Delta.

1st Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-258-1955

San Juan Quilt Guild meets at Crossroads Church in Montrose. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-765-1890

San Juan Weavers Guild meets September through June at Olathe Community Center.

3rd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 970-217-1114

Uncompahgre Treasure Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose.

2nd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-258-1955 | uncompahgretreasureclub.com ■

Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room, 1501 E. 3rd St. 2nd Tuesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-874-6410

Essential Tremor Support Group is sponsored by International Essential Tremor Foundation. Contact for meeting details. 405-205-9397 | catvol2022@cur rently.com

GriefShare meets at Rosemont Baptist Church, 1598 E. Niagara Road, Montrose. Call for next class. 970-249-4887

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Montrose Regional Health, 800 S. 3rd St., conference room A. Last Monday | 1 p.m. | 970-252-2996

Stroke Support Group meets at Warrior Resource Center, 4

Hillcrest Plaza Way, Montrose. 2nd & 4th Thursdays | 1 p.m. | 970765-2210

TOPS for weight loss meets at Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A St., Delta. Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. | 303-915-4863

Touch of Care Grief Group meets at 1100 E. Main St., Montrose. 4th Tuesday | 12-1 p.m. | 970-7879988

Veterans Coffee Cedaredge meets at The Pondy, 220 W. Main St. 3rd Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | whafv.org

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way. Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-7562210 | whafv.org ■

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

To register for programs, call 970-252-4884 or visit MontroseRec.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Weehawken Dancers

Halloween Performance

Enjoy a special Halloween-themed preview by the talented Weehawken Dancers, ages 12-18, featuring dance, flips and stunts.

11:15 a.m. | October 11 | Free | Senior Center

Valley Symphony Orchestra

Dress Rehearsal

Join us for a special dress rehearsal of the Valley Symphony Orchestra’s fall concert, featuring music from classic Saturday morning cartoons. Doors open for a Q&A session before the rehearsal.

6:30 p.m. | October 24 | Free (donations accepted) | Senior Center

EDUCATION

Call 970-252-4884 to reserve a seat at the Senior Center.

WWI Ambulance Service in the Balkans

Learn about the American volunteers who risked their lives rescuing soldiers in the Balkans during WWI. Historian Joe Zeni shares insights from his new book “Promise.”

1 p.m. | October 7 | Free

TRIPS & TOURS

Most trips meet at the Senior Center. If a tour is full, get on the waitlist.

Happy Canyon Rim Hike

Explore the beauty of Uncompahgre

National Forest on this moderate hike

8:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | October 22 |

$21 | Senior Center

Happy Hikes: Fiesta Guadalajara

Walk the River Connect Trail to the Ute Museum, then return in time for

happy hour and appetizers at Fiesta Guadalajara.

12:45-4:45 p.m. | October 29 |

$19 | Senior Center

Happy Hikes: Shelter Distillery

Enjoy a 3-mile easy walk along the River Trail from Great Outdoors

Colorado to Riverbottom Park, followed by happy hour and appetizers at Shelter Distillery.

12:45-4:45 p.m. | November 14 |

$19

Shopping Trip to Grand Junction

Get your holiday shopping done at Mesa Mall and surrounding stores.

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | November 19 |

$21

FITNESS

Tai Chi for Health & Energy

This practice combines slow, controlled movements, weight transference, mental resistance and quietness of mind.

10-10:30 a.m. | Wednesdays | Donation

ARTS & CRAFTS

Crafters Day

Bring supplies and work on your project for free, or pay $25 for a four-month session and use the supplies provided. Order lunch with the group or bring your own. 12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | $25 | 818-262-3272

Ceramics Studio

Network with fellow ceramics enthusiasts and use the Senior Center’s tools, glazes and facilities.

8:30-11 a.m. | Thursdays | Free

Jam Session & Sing-Along

Bring your acoustic instruments and lead the group in your favorite tune or join in.

3:45-5:45 p.m. | Mondays | Free Open Line Dancing

Learn the step counts and formations to keep you in sync. Suggested donation is $2.

Mondays: Beginners: 2:15-3:15 p.m., Improvers: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Intermediate: 4:30-5:45 p.m. | Tuesdays: Improvers: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Intermediate: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ■

To register for programs, call 970-874-0923 or visit CityofDelta.net/parksrecgolf

GAMES

Pinochle

12:30-3:30 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Tuesday Needlers

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays

FITNESS

Movement Medicine

Work your body hard, but in a gentle way! This non-impact class uses various equipment to improve connective tissue and posture, restore neurological stability and balance and enhance flexibility, strength and coordination.

6 a.m. | Tuesdays

Pilates

Low-impact movements that improve flexibility, muscular strength and endurance.

12 p.m. Mondays | 9 a.m. Fridays

Senior Circuit

Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises.

9 a.m. | Monday - Friday

Move It or Lose It

Use simple hand weights to help increase flexibility, balance and bone strength.

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of motion.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Fitness Orientations

Learn the proper use of the exercise machines.

Call for details | $15

POOL FITNESS

Aqua Movers

Jump-start your week with a mid- to high-intensity cardio and strength-training water class.

5:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pool Power

Work out in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas.

9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Young at Heart

Enjoy a combination of aerobic and full-body workouts in the pool.

8:30 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength designed for beginners.

9:30 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Full-Body Cardio

A full-body workout with water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges.

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Silver Sneakers Splash

A fun shallow-water exercise class that uses a signature splash board to increase movement. Suitable for non-swimmers.

8:30 a.m. | Wednesdays & Fridays

NUTRITION

Nutrition Coaching

Discuss your nutrition goals with a coach. Requires a three-month commitment.

By appointment only ■

BEACON BITS Montrose & Delta

Delta County announces new mobile app for emergency notifications and community resources

Delta County Human Services recently launched a new mobile app that provides real-time emergency alerts and important community resources, translating messages into over 130 languages to better serve residents and visitors. Previously, Delta County had no dedicated, real-time communication tool outside of social media. Now, residents can

receive critical updates, such as wildfire alerts, flooding and gas leaks, as well as non-emergency information. Emergency alerts are accessible through the app without requiring personal information or account registration. To receive alerts, residents can download the free ReachWell app on Android and iOS, choose their preferred language and select Delta County Alerts and Delta County Human Services for updates. For more information, visit deltacountyCO. gov/reachwell.

Free monthly program for Delta County seniors

Join the Senior Connection at Delta United Methodist Church, 477 Meeker St., from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. This free program is open to all seniors (senior is self-defined) and offers games, puzzles, conversation and companionship. Occasionally, guest speakers are featured. Refreshments will be served. Next event is October 3. For more information, call 970-874-9501.

Delta Health expands with new orthopedics clinic

Free legal help during National Pro Bono Week

Sunscreen, protective clothing and regular at-home skin checks are important. So are 20-minute checkups with your dermatologist!

Delta Health recently announced the expansion of services with the addition of Delta Health Orthopedics at 257 Cottonwood Street in Delta. The clinic, formerly known as Dr. John Knutson’s Delta Orthopedic practice, will continue offering comprehensive orthopedic care, including joint replacements, extremity surgeries, ligament reconstruction and steroid injections. Dr. Knutson, with over 35 years of experience, has long been affiliated with Delta Health, ensuring a smooth transition for his patients. Delta Health Orthopedics is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Fridays from 8 a.m.-12 p.m., with a lunch break from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. For more information, visit deltahealthco.org/orthopedics or call 970-399-4200.

From October 21-25, the 7th Judicial District is offering free attorney consultations, parenting education workshops and mediation services as part of National Pro Bono Week. Consultations will be available for civil, probate or domestic matters, either in-person, by phone or virtually. Free mediation sessions will also be provided during Pro Bono Week and other days throughout October. Preregistration is required by October 14. For more information or to register, call 970-252-4312 or email 7thJDLDRD@gmail.com. Services are available to residents of Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties. Dr. Alexis Garza joins Colorado Stroke Advisory Board

Dr. Alexis Garza, medical director of Montrose Regional Health Emergency Department, has been appointed to the Colorado Stroke Advisory Board. As one of 18 governor-appointed members, Dr. Garza will serve as the emergency medicine physician representative, contributing to the board’s mission to improve stroke care across Colorado. With stroke being the 6th leading cause of death in Colorado, the board stresses that 90% of strokes are preventable through a healthy lifestyle and early

Gunnison Gorge NCA designated as an International Dark Sky Park

The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA) has been certified as an International Dark Sky Park, joining an exclusive group of 126 parks worldwide that prioritize the protection of dark skies. This recognition was granted after years of dedication from Gunnison Gorge NCA staff, the Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Canyons Association, Western Slope Conservation Center and volunteers who documented the NCA’s dark sky quality and worked to ensure minimal light pollution within the park’s boundaries, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Milky Way and peaceful stargazing. Visitors are encouraged to participate in guided stargazing trips, attend educational programs and learn more about the impact of light pollution. To get involved, visit coloradocanyonsassociation.org or westernslopeconservation.org.

recognition of symptoms. For more details, visit costroke.org.

Montrose AARP Tax-Aide seeks volunteers for 2024 tax season

Montrose Tax-Aide is currently seeking volunteers to assist with the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program, which provides free tax preparation and filing services to older adults. Volunteers will receive training in December or January and will assist taxpayers from February through April 15. Volunteers are needed for varying time commitments, with tax returns prepared on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. No prior experience or AARP membership is required. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit aarpfoundation. org/taxaidevolunteer.

Montrose Neighborhood Watch meets during National Crime Prevention Month

Montrose Neighborhood Watch will hold a meeting on Wednesday, October 16 at 3 p.m. at 433 S. First St., Montrose. The meeting will focus on helping community members reduce crime by staying

By Deb Patterson

What is one item on your bucket list you’d like to accomplish before the end of this year?

Barbara Wieloszynski

connected, becoming more aware of their surroundings and learning how to report suspicious activities. For more information, call 970-2524499 or email nhwmontroseco@ outlook.com

State Health Department launches statewide dementia awareness campaign

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has launched the “Talk About Dementia” campaign to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias across Colorado. The campaign encourages Coloradans experiencing signs of dementia to speak with loved ones and health care providers as early detection can lead to better planning and care. The campaign will promote brain health strategies such as managing diabetes, treating hearing loss, quitting tobacco and staying socially engaged. Ads will appear on social media, directing residents to talkaboutdementia.org. This initiative is part of the state’s fiveyear plan aimed at reducing the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. ■

“There are so many beautiful places in this world to see, but my heart is satisfied in the Colorado mountains. I hope to go back to Twin Lakes and finally see Maroon Bells. Both these places are a memory of the times with my mom.”

Mindyjo & Pete Germann

“We aren’t really ‘bucket list’ people, but we do set goals as we plan our adventures each year, which usually include a physical challenge of some type. We just love to travel! This year our focus has been on Ireland and we will be completing two 10-day walking tours. Wish us luck!”

Allyson Crosby

“In December, I will be holding auditions for the musical ‘Into the Woods’ that I will be directing at the Magic Circle Theater. It’s one of my dreams to direct this beautiful show! So on my bucket list is to have my cast of performers chosen.”

CROSSWORD

54. Aquanaut’s base

57. ___ in Charlie

60. Queue after Q

62. Stage plays

64. Sharp

66. Interpret

68. Oktoberfest vessel

69. Exchange premium

70. Siouan speaker

71. Exhausted

72. Spanish muralist

73. Intellectual faculty

1. Clothes-pins

2. Swung around

3. Radarange maker

4. Clan emblems

5. Imperial dynasty of Russia

6. ___-Locka, FL

7. Indonesian island

8. Hold responsible

9. Thank you, in Mexico

10. Goddess of dawn in Greek mythology

11. Movie lioness

12. Fortuneteller

13. Ferrara family

52. Florida’s Miami-___ County

18. French school

22. Goya’s “The Duchess of ___”

25. Tools for duels

27. Utah ski resort

29. Standing up 31. Linger

32. Most draftable

33. Antiquing agent

34. Clods

35. Arthur Ashe’s alma mater

36. Dull sound

38. Dirty looks

40. Mary ___ Lincoln

44. Hindmost part

45. Finishes

46. Is unobliged to

47. Eye drops

51. Zigzag

53. Kett and James

55. Fine fiddle

56. Twirler’s stick

57. Play group

58. Play start

59. Plaintiff

61. Driving force

63. Bird feed

65. Father’s Day gift

67. Show

SUDOKU

CLASSIFIEDS

CAREGIVER

CAREGIVER. Private caregiver available to provide personal care assistance to individuals requiring light housekeeping, companionship, transportation for community outings such as shopping or medical appt, meal prep and personal care. Many years of experience with excellent references. Contact Carol at 970270-7127.

CLASSES

FREE WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE INSTRUCTION. Because “NO MEANS NO!” Simple and effective methods to escape assault taught by a nationally certified black belt instructor with 4 decades of experience. Call Bob (no texts please) 970-261-2445. Leave your name and number and I’ll return your call.

EVENTS

WESTERN SLOPE COIN CLUB COIN SHOW. Friday, October 25th 10 am – 5 pm & SATURDAY, October 26th 9 am - 4 pm at Clarion Inn, 755 Horizon Dr. BUY/SELL. Admission is Free. Call Lewis Miller 970-640-3765 or Kenny Jewell 970-417-9025 for more info.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR DAYS IN MONTROSE AND GRAND JUNCTION. Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting. Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visit healthychoicesunltd.com.

HELP WANTED

RETIRED/NEED EXTRA INCOME

Part-time medical delivery position available. Shift starts at 3:00 am. Weekend call every 4th week. Good driving record required. Flexibility and dependability essential. Call for details 970-254-2897.

REAL ESTATE

We buy houses, any condition, any situation. 970-316-2488.

LOST & FOUND

Missing: Large green tote with cherished family photos & albums, lost in the Fruitvale area of Grand Junction around 2019. Any information is appreciated—no questions asked, reward available. Call 970-270-7127.

SERVICES

ABSTRACT WINDOWS LLC, 970-3124717 Need your windows cleaned? give us a call or text. Residential and Commercial Window Cleaning. Serving Mesa County. Quality Work. Reasonable Rates. Free Estimates. Licensed and Insured. Senior and Veteran Discounts Available.

SERVICES

THE CLEANING LADY, LLC. It’s time to ‘fall’ into a spotless home and ‘leaf’ the cleaning to me! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just once, Airbnb’s included! Linda K. 720-841-7505 or 970-263-7364

KETTLE ELECTRIC New construction, remodeling, inspections, and troubleshooting. Reasonable prices. 970-241-4825

WANTED TO BUY

CAMERAS WANTED: Sell your 35mm, Twin Lens, or recent 14meg+ Digital. Fair Prices. Nikon, Leica, Contax, Hasselblad, WWII, Korea & Germany Vet’s. No Box or Video. Call / Text 970823-0002

USED BOOKS Buy, Sell or Trade. Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders. 970-2423911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Tues-Sat. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

MESA COUNTY

A LITTLE HELP: Connect and assist older adults in the community. Apply: alittlehelp.org/volunteering

ABODE HOSPICE: Be a patient companion or support caregivers. Apply: abodehospiceandhomehealth. com/volunteers or 970-658-8705

ADRC/SOS: Provide rides to homebound seniors. Apply: htop.org/volunteer or 970-248-2746

ARIEL CLINICAL SERVICES: Be a host home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Apply: 970-245-1616

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL: Support the hospital in various roles. Apply: kdaniels@gjhosp.org or 970-644-3541

FOOD BANK OF THE ROCKIES: Support the food bank in various roles. Apply: foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer or 970-464-1138

GRAND JUNCTION VISITOR CENTER: Welcome guests to the area. Apply: matthewh@gjcity.org or 970-256-4054

HILLTOP’S SENIOR LIFE OPTIONS: Help enrich the lives of seniors in various roles. Apply: htop.org/volunteer or 970244-0659

HOPEWEST: Provide compassionate patient support, administrative assistance or help at Heirlooms for Hospice. Apply: hopewestco.org/ volunteer or 866-310-8900

LOWER VALLEY HERITAGE ROOM: Help preserve Fruita history. Apply: 970-858-3868

MONTROSE/DELTA

MONTROSE LIBRARY: Sort donated books and run book sales. Apply: montroselibrary.org/support-mrld or 970-249-9656

GOLDEN CIRCLE SENIORS: Help seniors at the Montrose Senior Center. Apply: 970-252-4888

MORNINGSTAR THERAPY DOGS: Registered dog handlers and their pets visit nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and schools. Apply: 970-596-9343

MUSEUM OF THE MOUNTAIN WEST: Give tours, assist with cleaning and maintenance, perform light construction and more. Apply: 970-240-3400

REGION 10 RSVP: Connects adults 55+ with volunteer roles in Delta and Montrose counties. Apply: jwalker@ region10.net or 970-765-3147

MASTER GARDENERS: Teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. Apply: tra.extension. colostate.edu or 970-244-1834

MEALS ON WHEELS: Deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. Apply: 970-298-9844

MESA COUNTY RSVP: Connects adults 55+ with volunteer roles in its member agencies. View available positions online. Apply: mesacountyrsvp.org or 970-243-9839

OPERATION INTERDEPENDENCE: Hand write notes for deployed U.S. military men and women. Apply: carley@oi delivers.org or 970-523-4217

PALISADE HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Share Palisade history and work on committees. Apply: info@historic palisade.org or 970-812-3064

ROICE-HURST HUMANE SOCIETY: Walk dogs, socialize cats, transport pets, help with events and more. Apply: rhhumanesociety.org/volunteer

ST. MARY’S HOSPITAL: Brighten the hospital for everyone. Various roles available. Apply: 970-298-2012

ST. MARY’S COMMUNITY

CONNECTIONS: Help older adults who no longer drive by running necessary errands. Apply: 970-298-2012

REGION 10 SHIP: Help seniors navigate Medicare. Training provided. Apply: jwalker@region10.net or 970-765-3147

SENIOR COMMUNITY MEALS: Help sort and deliver meals to homebound seniors. Apply: 970-874-7661

SHARING MINISTRIES FOOD BANK: Greet clients, pick up and drop off food, stock shelves and assist in the office and at events. Apply: sharingministries. com/help/volunteer or 970-240-8385

TIME BANK OF THE ROCKIES: Help neighbors help each other through exchanged services. Apply: timebank oftherockies.com/membership.html or 970-964-9680

VALLEY SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION: Support local musicians who bring classical music to life. Apply: info@ valleysymphony.net or 970-765-8323

WELCOME HOME ALLIANCE FOR VETERANS: Support local veterans in various roles. See current needs online. Apply: whafv.org/volunteer.html or 970-765-2210

A tip or two on tipping

By Gary Chalk

Thetopic of tipping has been on everyone’s mind since COVID-19 turned the practice upside down.

It seems like nowadays, no matter how much or how little service is provided, everyone expects a tip. Case in point…

Earlier this summer, Jan and I flew to Calgary, drove through the Rockies to Banff, and then down to Kelowna. After two weeks, we flew home from Vancouver. In the airport departure lounge, I decided to grab a coffee.

“Gary, they’ll be boarding soon, so don’t take too long,” Jan said. That’s when it happened…

“Hi, I’d like a small coffee, please.”

The attendant wordlessly handed me an empty cup and pointed to the self-serve station. Then, he turned the payment screen toward

WAIT A MINUTE! HE WANTS ME TO POUR MY OWN COFFEE, ADD SOME CREAM AND TIP HIM 18%?

me. It read: $5.49. Add tip: 18%.

Wait a minute! He wants ME to pour my own coffee, add some cream and tip HIM 18%? That’s $6.48 for a do-it-yourself coffee!

Grounds for frustration, if you ask me.

I was gobsmacked! I frantically searched the screen for an option to skip the automatic 18%. I found “Customize Tip,” but that’s where things spiraled…

I fumbled with the buttons, trying to adjust the tip. It was like trying to apply those long sticky baggage tags when you check your bags at the airport—impossible!

Now what had I done? The screen flashed, showing I’d added a 200% tip! (As if $5.49 for a self-

serve coffee wasn’t enough, now I was paying $10.98 for a single cup!)

Meanwhile, the line behind me was growing. People were getting restless. They want their coffee. I feel a brew-haha brewing.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

“Gary, what’s taking so long? They’re boarding now,” Jan said.

“Jan, I can’t talk. I’m trying to pay for my coffee!” I snapped, hanging up.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

“Gary, don’t be snippy. You can use a tip or two on being polite.”

Meanwhile, the increasingly agitated coffee-seekers behind me were ready to riot. I thought I’d pay cash and get out of there, but of course, they didn’t accept cash—

only credit or debit.

Now I was sweating. Forget coffee; I needed cold water—and maybe someone in line would be kind enough to share their nitroglycerin spray.

Finally, I returned to the departure lounge.

“Gary, you took so long there’s no time for you to buy me a banana to snack on,” Jan said.

If only she knew the words on the tip of my tongue! ■

Living Retired is written by humor columnist Gary Chalk. For more laughs, visit LivingRetired.press

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The Cottages let you live independently while giving you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. Our single-level patio homes offer privacy and luxury with open living plans, two bedrooms, two baths, vaulted ceilings, contemporary kitchens, gas fireplace, covered patio, and a one-car garage. Enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with paid utilities, bi-monthly housekeeping, snow removal, lawn maintenance, and flexible meal options at our Commons or Fountains dining rooms. Plus you and your loved ones get peace of mind with a 24-hour emergency response system.