October 2023 - BEACON Senior News - Colorado Springs

You want a connection to your doctor. We’ll help make one.

As each of us gets older, what we need for our healthcare changes—sometimes more than once. That’s why Humana has providers like Oak Street Health in our network that specialize in geriatric care. We connect you with doctors who take time to get to know you, offering care that evolves alongside you and a dedicated team who prioritizes your whole health.

Specialized primary care for adults 65+

Care

Find

an Oak Street Health location near you Visit HealthThatCares.com/Oak-Street-Health or scan the QR code

Now Open: Harvey Park 740 Peoria St. Aurora, CO 80011

Other Providers are available in our network. Provider may also contract with other plan sponsors. Important! At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-855-360-4575 (TTY: 711) Español

tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingü.stica.

Cajun Christmas & New Year’s Eve Cruise

Dec. 29, 2023-Jan. 5, 2024

$2,985 PER PERSON*

From traditions and music to exclusive culinary masterpieces, you’ll find the spirit of the season at each river bend

Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs and arrive in New Orleans. Gaze at the spectacular sights of New Orleans from the comfort of a luxury coach on an unforgettable 3-hour city tour.

Day 2: Trace the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain and Great River Road en route to Oak Alley Plantation. After your day in New Orleans, board your lovely ship and depart down the mighty Mississippi.

Day 3: In Nottoway, Louisiana you will visit the estate of sugarcane magnate Randolph Nottoway. You’ll also visit the charming town of White Castle. This evening, we’ll ring in the New Year aboard our lovely ship!

Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture.

Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of historic homes.

Day 6: Vicksburg blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this port carries a history unlike any other!

Day 7: Today is a river cruising day.

Day 8: As we port in New Orleans, we say goodbye to Southern Charm and depart for the airport for our flight home. *Price

Colorado Historic Trains

June 14-22, 2024

$3,149 PER PERSON*

Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs for Denver. Meet your fellow travelers at 5:00 p.m. for a get-acquainted dinner hosted by your Tour Manager.

Day 2: Venture into Rocky Mountain National Park, a living showcase of the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.

Day 3: Board the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad. Later, travel through scenic Monarch Pass and Curecanti National Recreation Area and visit the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park while en route to Montrose.

Day 4: It’s “full steam ahead” aboard the Durango & Silverton Gauge Railroad. Later, check into the Sky Ute Casino Resort.

Day 5: Visit the land of the ancient Pueblo Indians in Mesa Verde National Park.

Day 6: Board the motorcoach and ride to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, the original Rio Grande Line. Explore 50 miles of wild and rugged territory between Chama, NM and Antonito, CO, the highest point on the railroad.

Day 7: Aboard the Royal Gorge Railroad follow the 12-mile route along the old Denver and Rio Grande Western train line. Then, enjoy a drive through the stunning Garden of the Gods.

Day 8: Following breakfast, transfer back to Colorado Springs. *Total

New England Rails & Sails

Tour New England by rail and sail during autumn’s spendor!

Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs for Boston, MA. Meet your tour manager in the hotel lobby for a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of historic Boston then travel up the coast to Kennebunkport, one of Maine’s coastal jewels then continue to Portland, Maine which boasts a vibrant waterfront.

Day 3: Start at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum. Take a 1.5 mile long ride along the Eastern Promenade of Casco Bay followed by a scenic cruise of the bay.

Day 4: Travel west into New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Experience towering peaks, stunning scenery, quaint towns and villages before boarding the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

Day 5: Begin the day aboard the North Conway Scenic Railroad then travel the Kancamagus Scenic Byway as it follows a beautiful path through the White Mountains. Cross into Vermont to view the spectacular scenery of the area.

Day 6: Travel to the town of Stockbridge in the culturally rich Berkshires region. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum then enjoy some free time before continuing to the incredible Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Day 7: Board the Essex Steam Train as you pass through some of the most beautiful country in the state. Later board the riverboat Becky Thatcher for a relaxing trip up the Connecticut River.

Day 8: Pass through the state of Rhode Island to Plymouth, MA climb aboard your sea-going vessel for a whale watching excursion. Pay a visit to Plymouth Rock where our forefathers first settled on American soil.

Day 9: After breakfast, depart Boston for Colorado Springs.

Tulip Time on Jewels of the Rhine

May 3-14, 2024

Day 1: Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Amsterdam, Netherlands

$4,865 PER PERSON*

Day 2: Welcome to Amsterdam, you will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Cruises StarShip. Become acquainted with the amenities of your ship or begin exploring the city.

Day 3: Depart by coach for an included visit to Keukenhof Gardens. Discover why it’s called the ‘Garden of Europe’ as you admire gorgeous flowers at the peak of tulip season. Return to the ship for your first day cruising through the Dutch countryside.

Day 4: Cruise along the Rhine River to Cologne, Germany. Visit Cologne Botanical Gardens, take a walking tour of the city, see historic monuments and conclude at the World–Heritage listed gothic cathedral.

Day 5: Cruise to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. See the German Corner where the 2 rivers meet, the Church of Our Lady, and visit the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress by cable.

Day 6: Relax onboard as the vessel cruises along the Rhine River to Ludwigshafen. Upon arrival travel by coach to visit Schwetzingen Palace. Visit the interior of the palace, along with the beautiful gardens, maintained in their original design.

Day 7: Travel by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in France. Your guided walking tour includes the Grande Île - the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 8: Experience a guided walking tour of the ‘tale of two cities’: Breisach, Germany and Neuf-Breisach, France, divided by the Rhine River.

Day 9: Disembark the ship in Basel and begin your Swiss adventure in Lucerne. An included walking tour highlights the city’s landmark – the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall and town squares, all set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

Day 10: Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. Discover why it’s called the “Garden of Europe” as you wander along the paths, admiring gorgeous flowers at the peak of tulip season. Return to the ship in the afternoon to explore the city of Amsterdam at your leisure.

Day 11: Bid ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life enriching experiences from your European adventure.

*Price is based on double occupancy. Price includes roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, roundtrip transfers in Europe, all meals/drinks onboard the ship, 3 breakfasts and 1 dinner in Lucerne, all port fees and taxes, all gratuities, shore excursion in each port, all taxes and surcharges.

Classic Italy by Rail

October 21-30, 2024 $4,649 PER PERSON*

Day 1: Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Venice, Italy.

Day 2: Upon arrival in Venice, you’ll be met by a Mayflower Cruises & Tours representative who will escort you to the canal boat for your transfer to the hotel.

Day 3: Explore the “Jewel of the Mediterranean”—Venice, Italy. During the included walking tour, your local guide will help you discover the exotic sights that surround you as you navigate the picturesque alleyways and cross bridges over the quaint canals filled with gondolas. See the soaring domes of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doges Palace and Bridge of Sighs among other sites of this remarkable city built on water.

Day 4: This morning, depart Venice and take a high-speed train to Florence. Walk in the footsteps of great rulers, artists and philosophers as you explore Florence, on the included walking tour. A visit to the famous Accademia Gallery is included where you’ll get an up-close view of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David. This afternoon, continue on to Montecatini, home for the next three nights.

Day 5: Enjoy an included excursion to Siena. Your local guide will walk with you through this beautiful Tuscan town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you discover the highlights of the city.

Day 6: Depart on an included excursion to Pisa, best known for the bell tower of the cathedral, the “leaning Tower of Pisa”. Your local guide will explain the history of this beautiful town as you walk around the Piazza dei Miracoli and see the architecture and historic walls of this medieval city.

Day 7: Leaving the resort town of Montecatini, return to Florence by coach and board a high-speed train for the journey to Rome. Upon arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city and a guided visit to the Coliseum.

Day 8: This morning, enjoy a guided visit to the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church and the smallest independent state in the world: Vatican City. During the guided visit of the Vatican Museums, you’ll walk through halls containing some of the most priceless art treasures in the world. The highlight of the visit may be the Sistine Chapel which houses the single most impressive work of art by Michelangelo. During the visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, experience the magnificence of Bernini, Michelangelo, and other great artists of the Roman Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Day 9: Your last day in Rome is yours to enjoy as you wish. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at the hotel.

Day 10: As you bid ‘Arrivederci’ to Italy you’ll be filled with memories of Renaissance art and architecture, rolling hills and vineyards, and all the glory of the Roman Empire.

20 Monster Mash

The story behind the Halloween smash hit

21 Medicare’s Open Enrollment Periods: What’s the Difference?

Knowing about these two enrollment periods can help you make informed decisions about your coverage

22

Cities,

Craggy mountains, rolling farmlands, still lakes, magnificent castles and charming towns—Scotland has it all

24 Faith: Death and Multiplication

The glory of our Savior’s death makes it possible to fear our own less

25 These Social Media Sites Don’t Get Enough Credit

Stay better connected with friends and family by using these four lesser-known social media platforms

26

Community: Yours for the finding

Ona recent mundane Monday morning, I decided to pop in at the Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center in Monument—for no reason other than I hadn’t been there and I was curious.

Cheerful John flashed a ready smile and held the door for me and everyone else that came and went that morning. Sandy kindly offered to show me around, pointing out where walks, crafting, exercise, lunches, a grief group, Bible study and much more happens at the Grace Best Education Center. They’ve been there for the past year, sharing the space well with the school.

Somewhere in the morning’s hum of activity, a fragrant bowl of ripe Palisade peaches appeared on the table by the front door, to the delight of all who passed by. And the candy bowl wasn’t just there for looks. Piece by piece, the level of chocolate steadily diminished.

The faint sound of thumping, energetic music from a “Lean & Fit” class filled the lobby. There was chitchat about topics from pets to skin care. These seniors know how to mix it up and have fun!

At the hub of this activity is Sue Walker, the center’s engaged and energetic manager of seven years. With a ready smile and greeting for all, she is clearly beloved by those who frequent the center.

“How’s your daughter?” she asked one woman, who shared an update. Then Walker spoke of her own daughter’s upcoming wedding with the easy back-and-forth of friendly conversation.

The activities are wonderful—whole-person activities that benefit the physical, mental, spiritual. But the relationships are really at its heart. Feeling seen and understood—doesn’t everyone need that? People who know your name. Friends who sense what questions to ask. Someone to create with, or to huff and puff through another session of Zumba with. Fellow sojourners to study with, grieve with, break bread with.

“Come as strangers, leave as friends,” says the description for one of the center’s activities, Circle Talk. It requires nothing more than gathering and conversing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a study about loneliness in 2020. (Ironic timing, right? Little did we know we were all about to be isolated in the new, disorienting and at times heartbreaking way only a worldwide pandemic could bring.)

The findings showed that nearly one-fourth of those 65 and older are socially isolated from the loss of family or friends, the effects of chronic illness, hearing loss or living alone, for starters. This presents a health risk that may rival smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.

The risk of dementia can increase by 50%. Heart disease and stroke are more likely (29% and 32% respectively). Patients with heart failure had a 68% increased risk of hospitalization and 57% more emergency department visits.

On the mental health front, depression and anxiety present more often. Please, readers, pick up the phone and dial 9-8-8 if you’re feeling hopeless. There is help.

We are all unique individuals with varying degrees of introversion and extroversion. That needs honoring and understanding as we relate to others. And certainly, being comfortable with alone time is a gift we give ourselves.

But we all need someone, or hopefully, a few somebodies. We’re not meant to be alone 24/7. If you’ve ever felt lonely in a crowd, you know it’s not the amount of people that matters, but your connection to them.

So, reach out. See Clubs, Support Groups and Fun After 50, pages 32-37.

Neighborhood groups, churches and walking buddies are sprinkled throughout our city, waiting to welcome you.

Your whole-person health is at stake. ■

I bet you’ve been inundated with people advertising their hair salons, but honest to God, the best is in Skyway. Her name is Sharon, she owns the Rubaiyat and she’s of a certain age. She’s a gifted and talented hairdresser. She has nail techs and other hair dressers. She’s unbelievable and couldn’t be more nicer! She does hair for every age.

- Anonymous

I love the BEACON! Thank you! God’s blessings to you!

-

Beulah G.

“Happy Trails to You” (September)

I enjoyed your “Happy Trails to You” article in the September BEACON, but was surprised when I didn’t see Red Rock Canyon there. I hiked in about a 1/2 mile (not much) but truly enjoyed it and the varied terrain. The views were fantastic! I saw birds I didn’t recognize and deer tracks.

- Mary G.

Rhonda: We have an embarrassment of scenic riches here in Colorado Springs! Our writer, Lisa, had so many places to choose from! Perhaps a reader will be inspired to hike at Red Rock Canyon. The story inspired me to join an interpretive hike at the Paint Mines. The mountains get all the love, but it was beautiful!

Savvy Savings

My husband and I went to Josh & John’s Ice Cream in Colorado Springs a few weeks ago, and after ordering I asked for the 10% off found in the BEACON and was told they don’t give 10% to seniors. Just FYI.

- GG

By Rhonda Wray

“Yougo back, Jack, do it again,” Steely Dan sang in 1972. For Colorado Springs painter Jack Denton, 74, painting Pikes Peak on repeat is the driving force of his senior years.

But make no mistake: this is not a catalog of clones. It’s the contrasts—vibrant or muted, large or small, day or night, from up high or down low, up close or far away, stormy or sunny—in all four directions and seasons—that lend astonishing variety to his work.

Tennessee native Denton first visited Colorado Springs in 2012 and was instantly smitten with the Peak when it started raining, which turned to snow.

“She put on her dress whites for me,” Denton recalled with a smile.

He soon headed west and in 2014, through a series of “divine coincidences,” purchased a majestic home on the site of a former sheep farm and set up studios with colorful canvases competing for attention on easels and walls.

Though a large window boasts a spectacular view of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, it is far from his only vantage point.

Denton once chartered a helicopter whose pilot flew with the U.K.’s Royal Air Force. The doors were off and he hung in the air, shooting 250 photos with a stunning bird’s-eye view. He hopes to repeat the adventure or get a drone.

Another adventure beckoned when he turned 70.

“I drove my motorcycle up the Peak. Ute Pass was pretty scary!” he admitted.

Denton has completed two volumes of books containing 100 paintings each: “Pikes Peak, America’s Mountain—100 Oil Paintings by Jack Denton.”

“Once I did one book, I knew I had to do two

more,” he said.

He is halfway through his third.

“After 300 paintings I’m either done, or it’s a good start,” he said.

Denton has held shows at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club and Briarhurst Manor, where art appreciators could admire (and buy) his original paintings, see Denton at work and purchase his books and have them signed.

A book requires a year and a half of painting, but even then, Denton’s work is far from done. He titles the paintings, photographs them and writes descriptions (each painting has an accompanying historical fact or statement).

ARTIST OF THE APEX

“I feel blessed that nobody’s done this before,” Denton said of his series of mountainscapes, after an online search yielded only books of photos or journals.

After 11-plus years of painting the Peak, Denton still paints most days, three to four hours at a time. He has five or six paintings in progress at any given time and completes a painting every two weeks.

He believes that “art is in the eye.” He eschews photographic realism, considering himself a post-impressionist.

“Sometimes cloud formations paint themselves,” Denton marveled. “I’m not a copier of nature. I want to let the color vibrate. I want to shimmer it. I want the paint to look good.”

Denton often makes the darks darker and the lights lighter for stark contrast.

“Luminosity is one of my big aesthetic aims,” he shared.

His oil paintings are astonishingly varied, even with the same basic subject. Each painting is preceded with contemplation.

The mountain teaches lessons on science, history and spirituality. Because of differences in Pikes Peak’s rock from its surroundings, geologists think the current iteration is the third mountain in its history. And Denton just learned it contained a sanctuary area where Native tribes agreed to abstain from war. It even reveals outlines of Jesus and Abe Lincoln at certain angles.

“There’s just so much to it. It’s full of ironies,” Denton said.

“I ponder, I think and then I attack it.”

He uses a large brush at first, later finessing the details with a small, fine-bristled brush.

He recently swapped out a bighorn sheep for a gully because the composition was getting “too tight.” Adding and subtracting elements is a normal part of his process.

“I’m not a piecemeal artist, I’m more holistic,” Denton said.

Though he’s painted in various weather con -

Artist Jack Denton captures “America’s Mountain” in 250 paintings (and counting)

“I’M NOT A COPIER OF NATURE. I WANT TO LET THE COLOR VIBRATE. I WANT TO SHIMMER IT. I WANT THE PAINT TO LOOK GOOD.”

ditions, “I like it partially cloudy, so the colors are a little richer,” he said, noting that bright and sunny light washes the color out.

He signs each Peak painting with his font-like block signature and the year, which is especially helpful because when he finishes a painting, Denton said he doesn’t remember painting it.

“It’s almost like I didn’t do it. I want to problem-solve, but I want to be in the moment.”

CRAFTING A CAREER

Surprisingly, Denton didn’t even take art classes in high school. He left school early each day to work.

“I was making 85 cents per hour at the drug store. I was the man!” Denton said.

But after one art class at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, he was hooked. By his junior year, studio art was his major. He went on to receive his master’s.

Denton recalled using house paint and whatever he could find for brushes in those early days.

“I’d use rags, elbows, my shirt, small woodland creatures,” he laughed.

He taught at various locations, including the prestigious McCallie School, an all-boys prep institution.

“I was never going to retire from teaching because it’s so much fun, but 40 years is enough,” Denton acknowledged. “Now every day is studio day.”

Denton has met presidents and has been honored by congress. He painted politician and pro football player Jack Kemp, as well as several presidential portraits that were auctioned off. Travels to Morocco, Mexico and Russia provided rich inspiration for his art. When he was honored with an award for teaching, influential Russians saw it and commissioned him to create a sculpture there.

He painted an expansive rendering of McCallie alum Ted Turner’s Montana ranch, and he has

works hanging in the Hunter Museum of Modern Art in Chattanooga.

“Every now and then, something fun happens out of it. But that’s one out of a thousand hours. I basically just drop out and paint every day,” Denton said.

daughter who is an art teacher.

Art sustains Denton in these years. Even an ordinary rusty nail amazes him with its range of colors.

“I was basically killed in 1993, in a chainsaw accident,” he said. He still has three fingers that are partially numb, and one arm can’t fully straighten. “But I lived,” he said gratefully.

Now he prioritizes his health, doing sets of 100 pushups and staying active.

“We dance, and I play tennis four times a week,” he said. “I hope I have another 20, 25 years.”

According to Malcolm Gladwell’s book “Outliers,” It takes 10,000 hours of intense practice to become an expert at something.

“YOU’VE GOT TO KEEP LEARNING”

Denton’s artistic vision spills over onto his property. While most people his age are downsizing, he plans to add on to his studio, among other creative improvements.

“People are supposed to start paring down at 40, 50, 60, but I’ll be 75, and I’m like, ‘Let’s put a cabin over there,’” he said.

Fourteen years ago he started sculpting, using welding skills learned from his father. Now there’s a 10foot conquistador standing sentry over his property made of farm tools, car parts and other found metals.

Denton also made animated films in Fort Collins and a series of “cows with attitudes.”

“You’ve got to keep learning,” he emphasized.

He lives with his “support team” of his partner Yvette and their rescue pets, dogs Disco and Belle and mostly blind cat, Tate. He has one

“I passed that 10,000 mark a few times,” Denton mused. He resonates with a sign he saw that said, “Avoid comfort.”

“You get out what you put in. I don’t want tp think, ‘Yeah, you just talked but you didn’t do it,’” Denton said of his artistic goals. “I’m not chasing fame and fortune. I’m just trying to make the most of my golden years.” ■

“Pikes Peak: America’s Mountain,” volumes 1 and 2, may be purchased by emailing jackdenton402@gmail.com or calling 719-639-0350

They may also be ordered on Amazon.com, GracePoint Publishing (gracepointpublishing.com, 719-5271404) or Ex Libris Online Bookshop (bookshop.org), or in person at Rock Ledge Ranch, 3105 Gateway Road, Colorado Springs.

DENTON HAS MET PRESIDENTS AND HAS BEEN HONORED BY CONGRESS... HE HAS WORKS HANGING IN THE HUNTER MUSEUM OF MODERN ART IN CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE

6 fun Halloween contests for grandkids from ghostly goodies to petrifying pumpkins

By Kimberly Blaker

Are you looking for some fun new ways to celebrate Halloween with your grandkids this year? Costume contests are just one of the many options to get everyone in the spirit. How about getting the whole neighborhood, a youth group or your grandkids’ friends involved? Read on to see if one of these wicked ideas grabs you.

1 CRAZIEST COSTUME

Pass out fliers inviting all the kids to meet at your house or meeting place an hour before trick-or-treating begins. This can even be done the weekend before Halloween. Give everyone a name tag when they arrive. Then each child and adult can fill out a voting slip. Include best costume, scariest, funniest, most creative and more. Hand out a special prize to the winners of each category. And don’t forget a small consolation prize for all children who participate—even if it’s just extra candy!

2 MOST GHOULISH YARD

If you have a large neighborhood, it likely has its fair share of houses that decorate for Halloween. You may even be able to convince others to join a decorating contest. You could have a few categories, such as scariest, silliest and best overall. Ask some of the neighbors to deliver their votes to you by a specified date after Halloween and award them with a handmade sign they can put up next year for bragging rights.

OF THE Month Question

By Rhonda Wray

Do you believe that aliens exist?

3 FUNNIEST CARVED PUMPKIN

Invite your neighbors or group to participate in a carved pumpkin contest. You can schedule a date and time when everyone will meet with their carved pumpkins at your home, neighborhood park or another public space. Suggest everyone who participates pitch in $2 per pumpkin for a jackpot. To keep it fair, allow only one pumpkin per child. Prepare numbered cards in advance so each pumpkin will have its own number. Then have everyone fill out a voting slip. The carver of the winning pumpkin gets the jackpot. You could also pass out small goody bags for all the kids who participate.

4 FUNNEST HALLOWEEN GAME

Hold a Halloween game day. Ask each participant to set up a Halloween kids game in their front yard, room or space. Participants can give out small prizes, such as stickers or candy, to each kid who plays their game. Kids can wander from one game to the next. When they’re done, have each child fill out a ballot for the most fun Halloween game. Then award the winner. Some game ideas: bobbing for apples, spoon relay race (with eyeballs!), guess the food, Twister, glow-in-thedark Tic-Tac-Toe and scavenger hunts.

Drew Goebel

“Well,

“Yes, I believe there’s some other life form somewhere in the universe. If we’re here, there’s got to be other forms, based on common sense and logic.”

Phyllis Pollard

it depends on how you define ‘alien.’ I do believe in other worlds.”

Hold a traditional potluck Halloween party. Each participating family should be instructed to bring a Halloween-themed food or dessert. Place a numbered card next to each dish. Then have everyone fill out a ballot for the cutest, grossest, funniest and scariest food. Once the winners are announced, take photos of the families next to their creepy food. Then everyone can dig in and eat the yummy dishes and treats. ■

Fall Into a Carefree Lifestyle...

Ask your neighbors or friends to participate in the scariest scarecrow contest. Keep the scarecrows secret until voting and set a specific day when they should be on display. Have everyone, whether they participate by making a scarecrow or not, hand-deliver their vote to you by the end of the day that the scarecrows are set out. Then deliver a fun Halloweenish homemade yard sign or other award to the winning home.

AND LO V E WHERE YOU LIV E!

As the leaves change, now is your time to make a change for the better. That’s because hassle-free home ownership is coming for active adults (62+)! Why worry about maintenance and costly repairs when you can be doing things you enjoy instead? Whether you are retired or still working, the Village Cooperative of Ute Valley offers everything you want including a better lifestyle in a community of peers…

•New Construction – Reserve now and choose your finishes!

•Fantastic Colorado Springs Location with Great Amenities

• Best Value in the area with Financial and Tax Benefits!

•Annual Appreciation on Your Investment

•Spacious Home Plans and No Maintenance or Repair Bills!

Homes are selling quickly, so don’t wait on this opportunity! Join us at our FREE Informational Seminar or schedule a personal appointment to learn more ..

“I believe there is life more than the human race. I have seen actual alien petroglyphs in one of Colorado Springs’ local parks.”

“There has to be! Don’t you think that out of the vastness of the universe, it’s odd we’d think we’re the only ones here? I have not been abducted, however, nor have I seen an alien spacecraft!”

Kelly Calabrese

Phyllis Campbell

Rocky Mountain PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly), provides innovative, coordinated healthcare for seniors, assisting participants so they can live enjoyable and independent lives.

Community

Community Dental Health (formerly Senior Mobile Dental) has moved due to the closure of the Colorado Springs Senior Center complex.

Come See Us At Our

NEW LOCATION!

Our charitable dental clinic continues to provide quality, ethical dental care with financial support available for any adults, seniors and Veterans who have difficulty affording dental care. Please call our office for details of our new location 719-310-3315

Email: records@CommunityDentalHealth.org

www.CommunityDentalHealth.org

Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads

Recipe courtesy of ButterYourBiscuit.com.

Ingredients

2 flatbreads

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Serve

Transportation

1 clove garlic, diced

4 chicken tenders, cooked and cubed

1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup ranch dressing

11/2 teaspoons chipotle seasoning

Coordinated care plans that make it easy to access qualified doctors, nurses, and specialists.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted.

A wide

variety of exciting activities and events to stay active and engaged.

In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning. Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbreads and sprinkle with cilantro leaves. ■

See more recipes at BeaconSeniorNews.com

CO

Palliative care vs. hospice: What’s the difference?

Dear Laird: My 90-year-old mom is in assisted living. She is happy there but has had more care issues lately, like needing help getting dressed and forgetting how to get back to her room. She is also sleeping more than usual. The activity director told me, “I think your mom needs palliative care.” Does this mean she will die soon and that she needs hospice? Signed, Concerned

Dear Concerned: It’s frightening when you’re told your failing mother may need an unfamiliar treatment or type of care. Although they’re similar, palliative care and hospice care have distinct differences.

Cicely Saunders, a nurse, social worker and doctor, pioneered the concept of hospice in 1976 to provide pain relief and enhanced quality of life to cancer patients who had run out of options for medical treatment. Hospice encompasses spiritual support, interactive living and family participation to deliver meaningful comfort for those nearing end of life.

While hospice care has remained largely unchanged since Medicare began covering it in 1983, palliative care has evolved significantly in its utilization and interpretation.

Balfour Mount, a Canadian physician who’d collaborated with Saunders, wanted to expand comfort care to patients living with a serious illness at any stage, not just end of life. Palliative care is person-centered care that provides patients with comfort measures such as pain relief, relaxation techniques, and spiritual and emotional support, even while they’re actively seeking traditional medical treatments like radiation or surgery.

Family caregivers provide most forms of palliative care at home for as long as possible. The Caregiver

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

BY LAIRD LANDON, PhD

Support Foundation describes palliative family caregiving as keeping your loved one safe and comfortable, and creating moments of joy.

Palliative work is augmented by professional care. Eventually, we may hire in-home help, then independent living, assisted living and finally memory care.

Palliative care in medicine is also growing. About 55% of hospitals with more than 100 beds have palliative services. Twenty percent of smaller hospitals do as well. Typically, patients seek medical treatment before palliative care, but I believe both should be relevant throughout.

Back to your question: It’s important to clarify what the activities director meant by your mom needing palliative care. He or she could mean your mom requires more assistance each day. Hospice is palliative care to a degree; however, many people don’t understand that palliative care is more than hospice ■

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

Are

Could you use a little extra money each month?

• Do you love children and enjoy spending time with them?

• Are able to volunteer 15-40 hours per week helping children learn and succeed?

• Are you 55 years old or older? Do you live in El Paso County?

• Is your income under $29,160 for a single person household, or under $39,440 for a two-person household?

• Could you use an extra $200 - $400+ per month, plus travel reimbursement?

If you answered YES to these questions, call (719) 632-1448 todayto get involved in the Foster Grandparent Program.

10 ways to treat hot flashes

Hotflashes affect up to 75% of women and are the most common symptom of menopause. The frequency and severity of hot flashes can vary widely, with some women experiencing only a few per year and others experiencing several per day. Some women never even get one!

Your risk for hot flashes increases with family history, smoking, obesity, adrenal conditions, stress and the use of certain medications. Hormones are the mainstay. Here are the 10 best things you can take to relieve hot flashes:

1. Black cohosh: This herb has been used for centuries. It may work by acting on serotonin receptors in the brain and helping regulate your body temperature.

2. Red clover: This plant contains phytoestrogens—compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Some studies have sug-

gested that red clover may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

3. Sage: This herbal option may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes due to its cooling effect on the body.

4. Evening primrose oil: This oil contains a fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Some studies have suggested that taking evening supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

5. Flaxseed: It contains lignans, which may help balance hormone levels and reduce hot flashes. Flaxseed can be added to a variety of foods or consumed in supplement form.

6. Vitamin E: Taking vitamin E supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in some women because it’s an antioxidant.

7. B complex: Methylated B vitamins play a role in hormone regulation and may help reduce stress, which can trigger hot flashes.

8. Ginseng: This herb has been traditionally used for menopause symptoms, including hot flashes. Some studies suggest that ginseng may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

9. Maca root: Maca is a plant that grows in the Andes Mountains and has been used traditionally for balancing hormones.

10. Bioidentical hormones therapy is, in my opinion, the best option for hot flashes because they are chemically identical to those produced naturally in your body. This

BY SUZY COHEN

option requires a prescription from a hormone expert. Bioidentical hormones are available in many dosage forms, including creams and pills. One common mistake mature women make is taking hormones equivalent to those produced by a 20-year-old woman. I don’t think “industrial size” hormone doses should be given to older women, so make sure you talk to your doctor about your options. ■

DEAR

Can dogs be superstitious?

Thereis a penny on the floor, and it’s heads up.

“Oops,’ I apologize to the cashier, pretending I dropped something. Avoiding the glances of the shoppers behind me, I snatch the lucky coin and squirrel it away in my pocket.

In my purse, I carry a variety of small objects. These good luck charms give me a measure of comfort when I travel or am in unfamiliar situations.

Inadvertently, I have passed a few of my superstitious ways onto my family. For example, when my husband or daughter or I mention something good that may happen soon, we instinctively look for a nearby wooden object and knock like a trio of frenetic woodpeckers.

Dogs figure prominently in many superstitions. Growing up, my mother would say that there was rain on the way whenever our dog, Frisky, grazed on the lawn. A few others I’ve heard make me shiver:

• If a dog sits and stares at you, you may see a ghost between its ears.

• When a dog howls, it’s a sign of an impending death.

• Stepping in dog poo with your right foot portends bad luck, but if it’s your left foot, good luck is headed your way.

This made me wonder: Can dogs be superstitious too? Apparently, yes.

I recently read about a golden retriever who left a shoe on the bed whenever her owners left together. Once when the wife had to be away for a week, the husband came home from work on day one and found a shoe on the bed.

THE RUFF LIFE

BY MARTI BENSON

Completely normal. The next day, the husband returned alone—and found three shoes on the bed. By the third day, every shoe in the house was scattered across the bed and couch, and all the wife’s dirty socks were in a bowl.

My husband and I wondered if any of our dogs were superstitious. We started remembering some of the odd behaviors we’d witnessed over the years.

Gummi, our pomeranian, obsessively chewed round holes in an old airline blanket we had. He left the little fabric circles everywhere. Though he’s been gone for 10 years, we still find those cloth discs in odd places.

Cassie, the border collie, poached items from neighboring properties and put them on display in our front yard. She carried one particular trophy—a deflated basketball—in her mouth, on all her walks.

Robby was afraid of thresholds. He had to be coaxed or carried across one when going from room to room.

Did our dogs’ quirky ways mean they were superstitious? Or was there a more rational explanation for their behavior?

Surely it wasn’t something we did. (Knock on wood.) ■

Send your questions to Marti in care of the BEACON, or email her at OutnumberedByDogs@gmail.com

A WEEK WITH NO WIFE

Submitted

by Ben Kuckel

A man left for work one Friday afternoon and instead of going home, he stayed out the entire weekend and went hunting with his pals.

When he finally arrived home Sunday night, he was confronted by a very angry wife.

After yelling at him for some time, she stopped the nagging and said, “How would you like it if you didn’t see me for two or three days?” To which he replied, “That would be fine with me.”

Monday came and went and he didn’t see his wife. Tuesday and Wednesday came and went with the same result.

Thursday, the swelling went down just enough where he could see her a little out of the corner of his left eye.

I’M FREE!

Submitted by Jeanne Arnett

A prisoner had just escaped captivity by digging through a tunnel. He wasn’t sure where he was going to end up, so when he had the opportunity to poke his head above ground, he saw he was at a children’s playground.

He climbed up through the tunnel and shouted loudly, “I’m free!

I’m free!”

A little girl came running over to him and raised her hands. “I’m four!

I’m four!” she shouted.

FURNITURE DISEASE

Submitted by John Pope

A young boy asks his grandfather why his tummy is so huge. He tells the youngster, “I have furniture disease.”

The youngster says, “What is

furniture disease?”

His grandfather replies, “That’s when your chest falls down into your drawers.”

FOUR HUSBANDS AT 80

Submitted by M.L. Madsen

An 80-year-old lady was getting married for the fourth time. The local newspaper asked if she wouldn’t mind talking about her first three husbands and what they did for a living.

She smiled and said, “My first husband was a banker, then I married a circus ringmaster, next was a preacher, and now in my 80s, a funeral director.”

When asked why the four men had such diverse careers, she explained, “I married one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready and four to go.”

I LIKE PUNS

Submitted by Bob Breazeale

A famous general dies. He’s given a grand funeral with full military honors. Afterward, he is cremated

and his ashes are to be flown to West Point for burial. However, all the planes are fully booked. Eventually, they find a helicopter to fly his remains. The headline in the newspaper reads: The whirly bird gets the urn.

A little person who regularly attends Oktoberfest is on his deathbed. The doctor asks him, “If you could have one last wish, what would it be?”

The little man replies, “I’d like a short bier.”

Q. Three men are in a boat out on a lake fishing. They have four cigarettes but forgot the matches. How can they light the cigarettes?

A. They throw one cigarette overboard, thus making the boat a cigarette lighter.

Doctor: I can’t do anything about your condition. It’s hereditary. Patient: In that case, send the bill to my parents.

Why isn’t “phonetic” spelled the way it sounds?

GOOD PETS

Submitted by Randal Hill

God was sitting on his throne, and a dog and a cat were at his feet.

God asked the dog if he had been a good pet during his time on Earth.

“Absolutely,” the dog replied. “I was loyal, friendly, obedient and was a trusted and beloved companion to the family at all times.”

“Excellent,” said God. He then asked the cat, “Were you a good pet during your time on Earth?”

To which the cat replied, “You’re sitting in my chair.”

NEW HEARING AID

Submitted by Bradford Huff

An elderly gentleman had serious hearing problems for a number of years. He went to the doctor and the doctor was able to have him fitted for a set of hearing aids that allowed the gentleman to hear 100%.

The elderly gentleman went back in a month to the doctor and the doctor said, “Your hearing is perfect. Your family must be really pleased that you can hear again.”

To which the gentleman said, “Oh, I haven’t told my family yet. I just sit around and listen ato the conversations. I’ve changed my will three times!”

HOW YOU EARNED IT

Submitted by Shawna Mitchell

A young man asked an old rich man how he made his money.

The old guy fingered his worsted wool vest and said, “Well, son, it was 1932, the depth of the Great Depression. I was down to my last nickel. I invested that nickel in an apple. I spent the entire day polishing the apple and, at the end of the day, I sold the apple for 10 cents. The next morning, I invested those 10 cents in two apples. I spent the entire day polishing them and sold them at 5 p.m. for 20 cents. I continued this system for a month, by

the end of which I’d accumulated a fortune of $1.37…”

“Then my wife’s father died and left us $2 million.”

JOKES FOR ALL AGES

Submitted by Doris Joseph

If sea gulls are called seagulls, then what are they called when they fly over a bay? A bagel?

A neutron walks into a bar. The bartender says, “No charge for you.”

JESUS IS WATCHING

Submitted by Amos Gonzales

A cat burglar is going about his business burgling a house. He stops every so often when he hears a voice saying: “Jesus is watching you. Jesus will get you.”

He moves to another room and hears the voice again: “Jesus is watching you. Jesus will get you.”

He turns on the light and sees a parrot in the corner of the room.

“Is that you saying ‘Jesus is watching you, Jesus will get you?’”

The parrot replies, “Yes, of course.”

The burglar says, “What’s your name?”

The parrot replies, “Clarence.”

The burglar bursts out laughing and says, “Clarence? What kind of person gives a bird a stupid name like Clarence?”

And the bird replies, “The same person that named that rottweiler over there Jesus!”

HALLOWEEN JOKES

Submitted by Larry Brady

Why did the vampire need mouthwash? Because he had bat breath.

Why didn’t the scarecrow eat dinner? He was already stuffed.

How do you fix a broken jack-o-lantern? With a pumpkin patch.

Why are skeletons so calm? Nothing gets under their skin.

Why did the ghost walk into a bar? For the boos. ■

Garden checklist: 8 tips to prepare your garden for winter

According to the Celtic calendar, November 1 marks the onset of winter—nearly two months before the Winter Solstice on December 21. The Celtic calendar also appoints August 2 as the first day of fall harvest, which better aligns with our seasonal calendar here in Colorado. Tomatoes, peppers, okra and melon are ripe and plentiful when August rolls around. Peaches peak then, and apples and pears aren’t far behind. Our cool October nights dial back summer crop production and a frost usually puts a firm stop to summer annuals.

I give myself a deadline of October 31 to complete my fall chores. Just like we fortify our homes for cold weather by draining the swamp cooler and blowing out sprinkler lines, we finish out the summer garden by pulling irrigation lines and adding compost so that we have unrestricted access to the soil. Here are a few other things we can do this month while the weather is favorable:

➊ Push your plants. Prepare for your final harvest by stressing plants so they reach full maturity and put every last bit of energy into fruit production.

One way of doing this is to dig a shovel blade into one or two sides

OUR COOL OCTOBER NIGHTS DIAL

of the plant, severing some of its roots. It may be hard to do this to our little plant babies, but they will die off in the cold anyway. Pushing them into this stage of maturity will pay off because the plant will focus its resources on producing seeds, which are inside the vegetable we want to eat. Tomatoes can ripen faster and melons can size up quicker.

➋ Collect seeds. Now is your last chance to collect seeds for future planting.

➌ Plant garlic. The window is still open for planting garlic (October 3-17 are optimal planting dates; October 10-12 are ideal for root crops). See last month’s article at BeaconSeniorNews.com for detailed instructions.

➍ Avoid pruning trees and shrubs. This can stimulate woody plants to produce new growth

when we want them to direct energy down into the roots, not upward into the leaves. I leave the foliage on all my perennial plants for over-wintering. The frosted back leaves act as a mulch to protect the roots, and the upright texture attracts blowing snow for better moisture all winter.

➎ Mow the lawn, but set the mower on a higher setting to leave more grass for over wintering. The extra biomass can insulate the roots in the event of a really cold winter. Now is also a great time to schedule a tune-up for your mower

and yard equipment, as the shops are less busy.

➏ Add compost and mulch. Once you’ve added compost, insulate your garden with mulch. Although there are no roots to protect, this extra layer moderates the

temperatures so the soil microbes, worms and dung beetles that live in the soil won’t freeze and die. Plus, it prevents the soil from getting cold, which results in better seed germination come spring. Leaves work well as mulch, but straw tends to stay in place longer.

➐ Tie up any climbing plants for added support. Young, new growth of honeysuckle and wisteria

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED

Send

can get wind damaged in winter conditions. Don’t use twine or wire to secure them, as you don’t want that rubbing on the branches and canes. I previously used old pantyhose because it’s flexible, but I find that proper plant tape or grape tape lasts longer.

➑ Start a compost pile. I generate food waste all winter, so by stockpiling fallen leaves, I continue to make compost every time I fill a food waste bucket. Generally, two parts leaves to one part food waste will make a nice carbon-to-nitrogen ratio to get the composting process started. Fall and winter run more humid so the compost pile stays moist longer. ■

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“Monster Mash”

The story behind the Halloween smash hit

By Randal C. Hill

In summer 1973, Bobby “Boris” Pickett’s original “Monster Mash” (released this time on Parrot Records) reached the Top 10 for a second time. Its first success had come about 11 years earlier, when Pickett’s platter shot all the way to number one.

Pickett sang lead with a Hollywood band called the Cordials. One evening, while performing the old Diamonds’ hit “Little Darlin’,” Pickett delivered the song’s monologue in the low-pitched voice of horror movie icon Boris Karloff. The audience loved the spoof and fellow Cordial Lenny Capizzi encouraged Pickett to keep up the fun. Eventually, the two musicians, who were both horror movie fans, decided that such goofiness could be developed into a Halloween novelty tune.

And, boy, were they right!

DianeBrossLaw.com

Celestial Dialogues

horror-based creatures of lore, such as Dracula and the Wolfman.

Pickett and Capizzi’s taped demo came to the attention of Gary S. Paxton, a Los Angeles record producer whose initial success had been the 1960 million-selling “Alley-Oop” by the Hollywood Argyles. For the Pickett-Capizzi ditty in 1962 (which would also top the Billboard chart), Paxton created his own label, Garpax Records.

The female voices heard in the background came via the Darlene Love-led studio outfit, The Blossoms. (You’re hearing the same group in The Crystals’ “He’s a Rebel.”). Leon Russell played piano on that eventful day.

Their original title was “Monster Twist,” but at the time Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” was fading and being replaced by Dee Dee Sharp’s dance disc, “Mashed Potato Time.” The duo altered the lyrics accordingly:

I was working in the lab late one night when my eyes beheld an eerie sight.

For my monster from his slab began to rise, and suddenly to my surprise

(He did the mash) He did the Monster Mash

(The Monster Mash) It was a graveyard smash

(He did the mash) It caught on in a flash

(He did the mash) He did the Monster Mash

The lyrics are, of course, based on Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel “Frankenstein.” In Pickett’s rendition, a benevolent monster throws a dance party that features other

Paxton devised the sound effects for the one-hour recording session. A coffin lid creaking open was created by pulling a nail out of a two-by-four. Bubbles from a cauldron came by blowing through a straw in a glass of water. Dropping chains onto the studio floor provided the clatter of clanking shackles.

A hastily assembled Garpax album, “The Original Monster Mash” made the LP Top 20 and included such blessedly-now-forgotten tracks as “Blood Bank Blues,” “Graveyard Shift,” “Transylvania Twist” and “Me and My Mummy.”

Pickett’s novelty became a runaway hit. His follow-up track, “Monster’s Holiday”—where the creatures were now enjoying a Christmas party—hit the Top 30. For years after that, Pickett tried to wring one more success from his one-hit wonder. He released “Monster Swim,” “Monster Man Jam,” “Monster Concert” and, perhaps inevitably, “Monster Rap.” Each sank without a trace.

Pickett claimed that his “Monster Mash” sold four million copies.

“I’ve been paid,” he once said, “so I’m gonna believe it.” ■

The day a solar eclipse comes to Colorado Springs, enjoy a concert of space-themed orchestral music!

Pre-concert lecture by featured Israeli-American composer Ofer Ben-Amots to begin 45 minutes before the performances.

What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicare Advantage open enrollment periods?

Courtesy of National Council on Aging

For the more than 64 million Americans enrolled in Medicare, one of the first signs of fall each year is the arrival of the Medicare & You handbook. This valuable guide is a signal that two very important annual enrollment periods are just around the corner: Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period and the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment. This guide explains the actions you can take during each enrollment period. Knowing more about these two distinct enrollment opportunities can help you make informed decisions about your health and drug coverage.

At a glance, there are two main ways these two enrollment periods differ:

• They are held at different times of the year. Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period is from October 15 to December 7. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment is from January 1 to March 31.

• They both offer different opportunities for adjusting your coverage. During Medicare’s

Open Enrollment Period (AEP or OEP), Medicare beneficiaries can make a wider range of changes. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period gives people with Medicare Advantage plans one additional chance to change Medicare Advantage plans or switch to Original Medicare.

How does Medicare’s annual Open Enrollment Period work?

This annual enrollment period, from October 15 to December 7, is for anyone enrolled in Medicare Parts A and/or B, including those who may already be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Part D. As a Medicare beneficiary, you can join, switch or drop a health and/or drug plan. You can also:

• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan and vice versa

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another

• Join or switch Medicare drug plans

• Drop your Medicare drug coverage completely

• Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage to one that does and vice versa

You don’t have to change your coverage if your current plans meet your medical and budgetary needs, but the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recommends all Medicare beneficiaries assess their coverage annually.

Open enrollment changes become effective on January 1, as long as you meet the December 7 deadline.

How does the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period work?

This period, from January 1 to March 31, is for people who are already enrolled in a private Medicare Advantage plan. It gives Medicare Advantage (MA) plan holders an additional opportunity to make changes. You can only change plans once during this enrollment period. Here are some actions you can take:

• If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage)

• You can drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare.

• You’ll also be able to join a separate Medicare drug plan Things you can’t do:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan

• Join a Medicare drug plan if you’re in Original Medicare

• Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another if you’re in Original Medicare

Your coverage will start the first day of the month after you apply to join the plan.

The National Council On Aging has more information and experts you can talk to about Medicare enrollment. You’ll also find Medicare resources, information and tools at NCOA.org. You can also explore coverage options by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227) or visiting Medicare.gov. Finally, you can talk directly to a licensed Medicare broker or contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 719471-2096 for free, unbiased advice. ■

Cities, Castles & Charm of

By Victor Block

he first thing that impressed my wife Fyllis and me about Scotland was its natural beauty.

Both the Highlands and Central Scotland are home to craggy mountains, rolling farmlands dotted by grazing sheep and the still waters of lochs (lakes). We agreed with a poll conducted by Rough Travel Guides that included Scotland among the most beautiful countries in the world.

Contrasting with that tranquility is a history that is replete with battles against a parade of invaders and tyrants. And during pauses among those clashes, high-spirited Scottish warriors took to fighting among themselves at times.

Some chapters of that history come alive at the countless castles that dot the landscape—some of which were built well before Columbus set sail for the New World—and charming towns, each with its own stories to relate.

Stirling Castle is located in a city of the same name. The city is known as the “Gateway to the Highlands.” Its oldest structures date back to the 14th century, and the Royal Palace looks much as it did when it was completed in the 16th century. One ceiling is adorned with original wood-carved medallions that depict images of kings, queens and other notables.

Doune Castle (pronounced Dune) dates back to the 13th century. Its quintessential fortress-like façade ap -

peared in the film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” and more recently, in the “Outlander” TV series.

The past also lives in cities and towns, including even the tiniest hamlets that make up in allure what they lack in size.

Inverness sits astride the Ness River, whose source is the loch where the famous fabled monster resides. This is a welcoming, walkable town with numerous inviting cozy restaurants and small shops.

A personal favorite was the Victorian Market, which retains much of its original ornate splendor from 1891. Historic photographs line the walls and independent purveyors—a butcher, fishmonger, watchmaker and some 30 others— add to the ambience.

Dunblane stands on the banks of the Allan Water (River Allan), which powered factories and mills in the past. Exhibits at the compact but outstanding Dunblane Museum trace the area’s history. One thing I found especially fascinating the collection of beggars’ badges which, in the 15th century, identified indigent people who had permission to plead for money.

The pleasant Darn Walk Trail alongside the river links Dunblane with the Bridge of Allan, a 19th-century spa town which traces its history back to a hillside fortress built during the Iron Age.

CITY SIGHTS

Contrasting with towns that are

STRETCHING A MILE THROUGH THE CITY CENTER, EDINBURGH’S STUNNING ARCHITECTURE SERVES AS A BACKDROP TO AN ACTIVE STREET LIFE.

small in size but large in appeal is Edinburgh [pronounced Edin-borough], a magnificent city which in many ways is much more than just a pretty face. The Old Town area earns its accolade as “the heart of Scotland’s capital.”

Stretching a mile through the city center, its stunning architecture serves as a backdrop to an active street life. Entertainers attract crowds of passersby and street musicians add a background of music to the setting.

Edinburgh Castle overlooks the Royal Mile, as it’s known, from a hilltop which has served as a defensive fortress since ancient Roman times. At the opposite end of the road is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the English monarch in Scotland. King Charles III spends one week in res-

idence each summer but was not there when we were, so we couldn’t drop by for tea.

Another favorite site for us was Real Mary King’s Close, a narrow underground thoroughfare which provides a realistic immersion in the past. In the mid-17th century, Edinburgh was confined primarily within its security walls, and housing was built in small thoroughfares called closes, a Scottish word for alley.

These often were named for an occupant or the business or trade of residents, which accounts for signs identifying the advocates, bake house and Old Fish Market closes.

Real Mary King’s Close is named for a merchant who lived there for a decade (1635-1645) along with about 600 other people. The tour delved into Mary’s life, those of people from all social classes and horror tales about Edinburgh’s most deadly plague.

BACK TO NATURE

Another very different site that I suggest should be on a visitor’s wish list is the Trossachs, an area of heavily wooded hills, sprawling valleys and rocky peaks. This landscape in many ways represents a microcosm of Highlands scenery.

While our visit was limited to

a self-driving tour and hike, other activities include animal and bird watching, fishing and enjoying a boat ride on a loch. History lovers may check out prehistoric sites including rock markings, burnt mounds and artificial islands once occupied by lake dwellings. Reliving periods of history is but one of many attractions that invite visitors to Scotland. In an area about equal to that of South Carolina, its treasures include ancient history and architecture, some of Mother Nature’s most splendid handiworks and friendly people eager to share their proud heritage with guests from abroad. ■ visitscotland.com

Stirling Castle stirlingcastle.scot

Doune Castle

historicenvironment.scot/ doune-castle

Victorian Market, Inverness thevictorianmarket.co.uk

Dunblane Museum

dunblanemuseum.org.uk

Edinburgh Castle edinburghcastle.scot

Palace of Holyroodhouse

rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse

Real Mary King’s Close realmarykingsclose.com

Trossachs lochlomond-trossachs.org

Nondenominational

Hymns

“A Friendly, Welcoming Church”

Death and multiplication

By John Vieths

John

12:23-24:

“Jesus replied, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.’”

Jesus draws a beautiful illustration of his death and makes an emotionally charged prediction of his sufferings here. It may not impress us deeply because we have become more or less comfortable with the idea of his suffering and dying. It’s our own suffering and dying with Jesus that troubles us. We live in a world obsessed with ending all suffering. Doctors and scientists frantically struggle to hold death off as long as they can. Douglas Taylor-Weiss once suggested that “Eliminate pain” and “Have a good day” and “Be entertained” belong in our culture’s new set of 10 commandments. Preachers of the prosperity gospel suggest that becoming a Christian means the end of putting up with life’s unpleasantries. But suffering, and even dying, are tools the heavenly Father uses to bring glory to his name.

The picture Jesus paints of the seed is not difficult to understand. When it’s planted, it gives up all it has—its entire existence—to support the new plant. The seed itself “dies” and a new plant emerges. But the plant produces a whole crop of new seeds. Death leads to multiplication.

Jesus resembles that seed. Like the seed, Jesus gave up everything. He gave up the privileges of Godhood to live as a common man. He gave up the rights and freedoms of God’s Son to live in obedience under his parents, rabbis and rulers. He gave up his time to teach, heal and love the people of Judea and Galilee. He rarely took a day off. His

disciples even lived with him. Ultimately, he gave up his Father’s love to know God’s anger at our sin. He suffered the hell we deserved. After tasting such spiritual death, he gave up his spirit. When they took his naked body down from the cross (for he had given up even his clothes to the Roman soldiers), they placed it in a borrowed tomb, because he had nothing left to give.

What if Jesus had never died? What if he had been spared all this pain and suffering, and sacrifice? Then he would have remained only a single seed. That would certainly have been easier for Jesus. But you and I would have no spiritual existence—at least not a positive one. Our sin made that impossible without him.

“But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” In God’s heavenly system of accounting, Jesus’ death cancels all the debt we owe for our sins. It sets us free from death itself. It may look weak and worthless, yet this great act of love has such power that the mere news of it miraculously takes hold of human hearts. It transforms rebellious sinners into believing children of God. In all this world, there is no greater power than Christ’s own self-sacrificing love.

You and I are the seeds Jesus’ loving sacrifice produced. We are the adopted sons and daughters of God, and we are only a small part of the family. It is so big—a harvest so fruitful—that when the Apostle John saw it in the book of Revelation, he described it as a great multitude no one could count.

This is the glory of our Savior’s death. It makes it possible to fear our own less as well. ■

Nourish your faith in between Sundays by reading more of John’s writings at BitsOfBread.org.

These social media sites don’t get enough credit 4 lesser-known platforms that can help you stay connected

Social media is my favorite form of communication. Of course, there are countless downsides and ways to misuse and abuse it, but social media is the only form of communication that can simultaneously transcend time and space.

This month, I will focus on the positive side of social media and hopefully provide some valuable tips and insights into how you can stay better connected with friends and family.

COMMUNICATION TYPES

Communication is fascinating. Men greet each other with a simple glance and thrust of the chin. Civil War soldiers wrote flowery threepage letters simply to talk about the weather and the day’s events. And today, people fall in love and break up over text messages using memes and emojis.

All previous forms of communication have been limited.

Words on paper open the imagination and allow the writer to create images and appeal to the emotions of the reader. But it’s time-sensitive and half-duplex, meaning sending and receiving the message cannot happen simultaneously.

Audio provides a fuller experience and it can travel over great distances and be consumed live. But it’s often one-way. Take a radio listener, conference speaker, or a concert, for example.

Visual communication (video) provides the most complete quantity of information in the most efficient way, but it stifles the imagination and is inherently one-way. In-person communication is wonderful, but it can only happen in person. Telephones are perfect for timely conversations and frequent updates, but they leave no record, video or transcript.

Social media simultaneously

documents the past, establishes a full-duplex form of two-way communication in the present, and provides a venue for preparing us for future events.

CONSIDER THESE SITES

I once heard someone explain that social media platforms fit into three groups: what you plan to do, what you’re doing right at this moment

and what you’ve done in the past. Facebook is, by far, the most popular form of social media, but it’s not always the best fit for every situation. Instagram is a fantastic way to post pictures and updates to the masses or to individuals, but it is also owned by Facebook, as is WhatsApp and the new Twitter alternative called Threads.

There are four social media platforms that I think people should use more often for communication:

1. Marco Polo is one of my favorites. The service allows both delayed and simultaneous video updates using smartphone video.

Think of it as a video text message service that can also be used as a video calling service. If you want to show someone what you’re up to in real time, you can activate your camera and start talking. If the audience is available, they can watch live. If not, the video will be available immediately.

Unlike Instagram and YouTube, Marco Polo is designed to be personal for a small audience. It’s a great app for families who are spread out to keep in touch.

2. Reddit has been around longer

than most other social media platforms, but it has withstood the test of time for a reason. It is an archive of questions, discussions, jokes, articles and data dumps on every topic imaginable.

Reddit doesn’t try to do everything. The service is for posting content and creating both live and delayed conversations for public consumption.

3. Discord is probably the nerdiest social media platform. It’s a small social media network for groups of people with similar interests. Discord is commonly used by people who play online video games, students and people in the tech industry. Slack is a close cousin that is very similar in purpose, but its user interface and functionality lend themselves more to businesses.

Either tool is great for groups of people who work on multiple projects, topics, events or subjects simultaneously. For example, if a church group has various committees that are all working on multiple

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

events, Slack or Discord can be used to separate the topics and conversations into threads so that everyone can see what’s happening without wires getting crossed.

4. Nextdoor is probably the simplest social media platform to understand and use. It is designed for a very precise audience: neighbors. Nextdoor allows people who are connected geographically to connect in small social networks. Users can advertise their small businesses, ask about services, remind each other about important community events and it’s fast becoming the best and most popular platform for local classified ads.

To get the best out of social media, it’s best to focus on why you need to communicate the message, who you need to communicate with, when it needs to be communicated and where the audience can best be reached. Nobody should feel obligated to use all forms of social media or any form at all, but it’s important to understand that avoiding social media means avoiding access to the most real-time and interactive form of communication ever invented. ■

Send your technology questions to Adam in care of the BEACON, or email him at AdamC@TalkingDigital.org

AVOIDING SOCIAL MEDIA MEANS AVOIDING ACCESS TO THE MOST REAL-TIME AND INTERACTIVE FORM OF COMMUNICATION EVER INVENTED.

Life in the real (estate) world

Senior Real Estate Specialist Linda Leslie helps older adults make the right move

By G. L. Yenne

Most people have the goal of someday owning a home. And Linda Leslie, a Realtor with HomeSmart Elite, has helped Colorado Springs residents of every age fulfill this wish since 2015.

But this area Realtor has a penchant for working with seniors, their adult children and caretakers as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES). This designation is only awarded to Realtors that have successfully completed a series of educational courses geared to helping seniors and their families with later-in-life real estate purchases.

“Buying and selling a home is more than a transaction, it’s a life-changing experience,” said Leslie.

The sale and process of relocating can be stressful for any buyer or seller. Add downsizing, probate and estate planning, and it’s important to choose someone who knows the ins and outs.

“After my experiences as a personal representative for my father’s estate, even with my father having

a will, I wanted to help others get through this experience in the most seamless way,” said Leslie, who’s also a certified probate real estate specialist (CPRES).

TRUSTED, RESPECTED, RECOMMENDED

Leslie believes that every person deserves to work with professionals who treat them with patience, respect and integrity. She gains her clients’ trust by listening to their concerns and making sure their best interests are represented during the sale. She can also connect them with estate attorneys, reverse mortgage lenders, assisted living directors, movers, organizing companies and other local experts

to guide them through their next steps.

“I take great pride in the relationships I build, and I always work relentlessly on my client’s behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals,” she said.

Her commitment to personalized service and meeting clients where they are is exemplified in her clients’ testimonials and stories.

“Once I got a call from a man living in a camper shell on the back of a truck. He was a veteran with a prosthetic leg, and he needed a wheelchair to get around when he removed his prosthesis,” Leslie recounted.

the latter.

“I hang my license under HomeSmart Elite, the largest real estate company in Colorado,” she said.

The “elite” designation represents the top 10 percent of Realtors who work under the HomeSmart umbrella.

To talk with Linda Leslie at HomeSmart Elite, call 719-4946860, email sellingcosprings@gmail. com or visit her at 7222 Commerce Center Drive, Suite 120. ■

LINDA’S TIPS For Today’s Buyers & Sellers

The most helpful information for buyers in today’s market, according to Leslie, is that you don’t need 20 percent down to buy a house, as was typical in the past. You do, however, need some savings for the down payment, and to cover closing costs, earnest money and inspection fees.

Eligible buyers can get approved for a VA loan with 0 percent down, just as Leslie’s satisfied veteran client did.

In her search to find him a home that was wheelchair accessible, she discovered some investors had bought a few homes in a certain neighborhood, made improvements and flipped them.

“We found him the perfect two-bedroom, one-bath ranch home with no basement. We used his VA loan and his disability check as income—lenders see this as steady income—and being a veteran, he was able to get a zero down payment,” she said.

“Linda brought me from homelessness to home ownership,” the veteran wrote in a review.

“This was the best thing anyone could say to me!” said Leslie, visibly moved.

DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS

Though she measures success by her clients’ satisfaction and not through her achievements and awards, Leslie has earned plenty of

She also suggested that sellers work with a Realtor who goes beyond putting up a “for sale” sign in the yard. It’s important that the house’s exterior and landscaping have curb appeal that invites a second look.

“I’ve shown homes to prospective buyers who, when we roll up to the house, will say, ‘Nope, I’m not getting out of the car, and I’m not going inside that house,’” Leslie said.

Critical areas inside the house should also be updated—namely, the kitchen and bathrooms. Even small updates like lighting fixtures and faucets will enhance a home. Make sure to remove family pictures and knick-knacks to eliminate clutter and help a prospective buyer envision the house as their very own future home.

“LINDA BROUGHT ME FROM HOMELESS TO HOME OWNERSHIP!”

As each of us gets older, what we need for our healthcare changes—sometimes more than once. That’s why Humana has providers like Vera Whole Health in our network that specialize in geriatric care. We connect you with doctors who take time to get to know you, offering care that evolves alongside you and a dedicated team who prioritizes your whole health. Specialized

Find a Vera Whole Health location near you

Denver/Thornton

9754 Washington St. Thornton, CO 80229

Colorado Springs 5020 N. Nevada Ave., Ste. 130 Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Other Providers are available in our network. Provider may also contract with other plan sponsors. Important! At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion.

If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call

(Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingü.stica.

(TTY: 711)

You want a connection to your doctor. We’ll help make one.

CALENDAR

October 1

Masterworks Concert

Luxuriate in these masterpieces from the Romantic Era at the Pikes Peak Center: Verdi’s “Overture” to “Nabucco,” his first great operatic triumph; Max Bruch’s lyrically rich “Violin Concerto No. 1” and Brahms’ beloved pastoral “Symphony No. 2.”

2:30-4 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $28-$84 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-575-9632

October 1-8

Creek Week at Bear Creek

Celebrate the cleanup’s 10-year anniversary by cleaning the trails, woods and creek in the park. Bear Creek Nature Center will clear trails of downed trees and conduct fire mitigation. To volunteer, email kylee taylor2@elpasoco.com. Preregistration is required.

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 245 Bear Creek Road | Free | fountain-crk.org | 719-520-6387

October 1-11

Americans and the Holocaust: A Traveling Exhibit

This self-guided exhibit, on loan from the American Library Association and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, explores how Americans reacted to the Holocaust.

5550 N. Union Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | exhibit@ppld.org | 719-389-8968

October 2

Medicare Basics

Roma Costanza, Medicare specialist and State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) coordinator, explains Medicare eligibility and enrolling in Medicare A, B and D, as well as the costs and differences between Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans in this webinar. Please register.

4-5:30 p.m. | Free | ppacg.org/aaaevents | 719-471-7080

October 3 & 21

Genealogy Basics (Virtual)

Learn strategies, including getting started, organizing research and searching for records.

10 a.m. Tuesday & 2 p.m. Saturday | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 4

Empty Bowls & Silent Auction

Lewis Palmer High School hosts dinner and entertainment for a worthy cause. Choose a local artist’s handmade pottery bowl and fill it with soup (with bread and dessert on the side)—then take your bowl home afterward. Tri-Lakes Cares benefits.

5-7:30 p.m. | 1300 Higby Road, Monument | $25-$30 | mhkiwanis. org |

Palmer Park Blvd. | $10

October 6-29

“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”

The gothic horror story starring Ichabod Crane comes to the stage by Funky @ the Butte in Cripple Creek. This one-man show is a new adaptation of Washington Irving’s classic, full of humor and charismatic storytelling. See website for dates.

1 or 7 p.m. | 139 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek | $21 | buttetheater. com | 719-689-6402

October 7

Nikola Tesla in Colorado Springs

Patric Ryan presents Tesla’s advanced scientific work in areas such as wireless power transmission and interplanetary communication at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum. Preregistration is required.

October 6

Kofi Baker’s Cream Faith

The son of legendary drummer Ginger Baker of Cream brings you the Cream experience! Shut your eyes and drift back to the ’60s at Stargazers with songs like “Sunshine of Your Love.”

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $20 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

October 6 & 7

Marvel vs. DC

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! Your friendly neighborhood Philharmonic has some fun with heroes of the imagination—leaping tall buildings, saving the world and the immortal struggle of one comics powerhouse against another at the Pikes Peak Center.

7:30 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $31-$91 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 6-8

Body Mind Spirit Expo

Explore the holistic community at the Colorado Springs Event Center with alternative health, wellness tools, products and resources, with learning sessions and presentations too.

1-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday | 3960

11 a.m. | 517 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs | $5 | eventbrite.com | 719-685-1454

October 7

Craft Exchange with Who Gives a Scrap

Swap your unwanted craft materials for new-to-you supplies at the Monument Library.

1-4 p.m. | 1706 Lake Woodmoor Drive | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 7

Taste of Kneaders

Learn all about Kneaders Bakery & Café and sample freshly baked breads, family recipe jams, cider, dips, handmade candies, popcorn and other specialties! Bring home Southern banana pudding, a French country sourdough loaf and Kneaders dip.

2-3 p.m. | 3430 Cinema Point | $15 | kneaders.com | 719-362-8820

October 7

Ukrainian Benefit Concert and Fashion Show

Support education amid unrest in Ukraine at City Auditorium. Ukrainian musicians play classical music, mod-

els showcase Ukrainian fashions, a silent auction offers treasures and experiences, a Ukrainian vendor’s corner has crafts and culinary delights and there’s a kids’ corner.

3-6:30 p.m. | 221 E. Kiowa St. | $25$40 | eventbrite.com | 719-424-1000

October 7

All Pikes Peak Reads Presents Mari K. Eder

General Eder discusses “The Girls Who Stepped Out of Line: Untold Stories of the Women Who Changed the Course of World War II” at Library 21c. A Q & A and book signing follows.

3 p.m. | 1175 Chapel Hills Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 7

Soul School

Travel through time at Boot Barn Hall! From the golden oldies to contemporary hits, there’s a dance step for every era. Put on your dancing shoes, wear your favorite decade’s attire and groove through the ages.

7 p.m. | 13071 Bass Pro Drive | $45$60 | bootbarnhallco.com | 719-401-0600

October 7

Jeffrey Alan Band

It’s all the feel-good music of Garth Brooks when this five-piece band takes the stage at Stargazers! They’ll play Brooks’ hits like “The Thunder Rolls,” “Unanswered Prayers” and “Friends in Low Places.”

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $20 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

October 7, 12 & 21

Blue Moon Lawrence

Listen to Lawrence Yoshito Shiroma play the oldies on guitar and trombone at three locations: Backyard Farmers Market (Black Forest Road and Shoup Road) at 9 a.m. on OCt. 7, Downtown YMCA (207 N. Nevada Ave.) at 2 p.m. on Oct. 12 and Calvary Fellowship Craft Fair (4945 Cable Lane) at 9 a.m. on Oct. 21. All are free.

October 6-7, 13-14, 19-21 & 26-27

Ghost Stories of Old Manitou Walking Tours

Walk and wonder as a spirit guide from THEATREdART regales you with colorful stories of real people from Manitou’s history while visiting outdoor scenes. The hour-long tours depart every 15 minutes from the Manitou Springs Heritage Center.

5:30-8:30 p.m. | 517 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs | $16, free under 11 | manitou springsheritagecenter.org |

719-685-1454

October 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 & 27-29

Halloween Spooktacular

Tell spooky ghost stories around the campfire at the KOA! Celebrate camp-style with crafts, pumpkin carving, a costume contest and a competitive campsite/cabin decorating contest with prizes. Don’t forget candy for the trick-or-treaters!

12 p.m. check-in, tents and RVs/3 p.m. cabins | 8100 Bandley Dr., Fountain | Variable pricing | koa.com | 800-562-8609

October 7, 14, 21 & 28

Miners’ Pumpkin Patch

Fall into fall on Saturdays at the Western Museum of Mining & Industry. There’s music, food, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, giant board games, a hay maze and slide, sack races, a petting zoo and panning for gold.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 225 North Gate Blvd. | $11-$13 | miners pumpkinpatch.com | 719-488-0880

October 13-14

Beyond the Grave:

Fall & Halloween Events

An Evening with Bram Stoker

Meet Bram Stoker at Evergreen Cemetery as he tells of the undead. Encounter captivating characters like Dracula, the Transylvanian Count who terrified villagers, in guided one-hour tours departing every 30 minutes. Tickets are only available online in advance.

5-9:30 p.m. | 1005 Hancock Expressway | $25 | eventbrite.com | 719-460-7328

October 14

Halloween Dance

Bust your best dance moves at Goodwill Possibilities!

You’ll find groovy tunes with DJ Clarence, a costume contest and free drinks and food.

3:30 p.m. | 1460 Garden of the Gods Road | Optional $5 donation | seniorresource council.com | 719-260-0744

October 20

Boo at Bear Creek

Traverse the trails at Bear Creek Nature Center with a grandchild age 7+, meeting creepy creatures along the way that will dispel myths about things that go bump in the night. Preregister for specific times.

6-9 p.m. | 245 Bear Creek Road | $8 | elpasocounty naturecenters.com | 719-520-6387

October 20-22, 27-29 & 31

Boo at the Zoo

Dress up and head out to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo for a haunted house, spooky graveyard, pirate’s cove, lighted pumpkin patch and trick-or-treating and animals galore! Must purchase tickets in advance.

4-8:30 p.m. | 4250 Cheyenne

Mountain Zoo Rd. | $22-$24 | cmzoo.org | 719-633-9925

October 21

Giant Pumpkin Festival

Head east to Smith Farms in Peyton for all the fall feels: the haunted farm, live music, food trucks, seasonal brews, animals, giant jumping pillow, corn pool, hayrides—and unbelievably giant pumpkins! Benefits the Springs Rescue Mission.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 8310 Blue Gill Drive, Peyton | Free | 719-489-2780

Drive | Free | utsdog.com | 719-268-0789

October 27

Monster Mash Bash

Bring the whole family to City Auditorium for Halloween fun! Even your pets can wear a costume and enter the contest.

4-7 p.m. | 221 E. Kiowa St. | $13-$29 | eventbrite.com | 719-385-5969

October 28

Auditorium. It features live entertainment and a true crime scary story series by El Paso County Coroner Dr. Leon Kelly, back by popular demand!

7-10:30 p.m. | 221 E. Kiowa St. | $29-163 | eventbrite. com | 719-385-5969

October 28

Nothing but Nineties Halloween Party

October 21

Pumpkins at the Park

Find fall fun at Bancroft Park and surrounding shops in Old Colorado City with autumn cuisine, scarecrow displays, live music, pumpkin patch and painting, balloon animals, stilt walker, crafts, henna, hot chocolate and cider, face painting and giveaways.

12-4 p.m. | 2408 W. Colorado Ave. | Free | shopoldcolora docity.com | 719-385-5940

October 22

Barks and Boos Fall Fest

It’s “Howl-o-ween”! Dress your pup up for a costume contest, parade, tricks and treats station, pumpkin patch, agility obstacle course, photo booth, scavenger hunt, bobbing for hot dogs and more at Under the Sun Dog Training and Daycare.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. | 6540 Vincent

Pumpkin Carving Party & Jack-o-Lantern Trail  Either or both activities at the Fountain Creek Nature Center are grandkid-great! They may carve pumpkins to leave for the evening event, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Pre-scooped pumpkins, patterns and carving tools are provided. Return all costumed up to enjoy the trail with lighted Jack-o-Lanterns, make a craft, hear stories and roast marshmallows, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain | $5 each event | elpasocountynaturecenters. com | 719-520-6745

October 28

Emma Crawford Coffin Races

It’s a quirky, spooky, rollin’ good time at the Coffin Races in Manitou Springs!

Costumed impersonators of Emma ride on coffin-like contraptions pulled by teams of “mourners.” The parade kicks off an afternoon of fun.

12-3 p.m. | 900 block of Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs | Free | emmacraw fordfestival.com

October 28

The Coroner’s “Aud” Ball

If you dare, check out this carnival of curiosities at City

It’s a blast from the past at Boot Barn Hal! Groove to the beat of classic hits, dress up in your favorite ‘90s Halloween attire and enter the costume contest for a chance to win hauntingly fun prizes!

7 p.m. | 13071 Bass Pro Drive | $34-$44 | bootbarn hallco.com | 719-401-0600

October 29

Harp Twins Halloween Concert

Rock out with the world’s only identical twin professional harpists at Stargazers! This special concert of spooky songs, tantalizing tunes, comedy and classic rock and metal favorites will appeal to all ages.

6 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $20 | stargazerstheatre. com | 719-476-2200

October 31

Indoor Family Halloween Festival

Cold weather? No problem! Celebrate indoors on Halloween with games, prizes, candy, a costume contest and fun for all ages at SoccerHaus. Enjoy treat stations, entertainment, bounce houses, music and a restaurant/pub onsite. The first hour is sensory-friendly. 2:30-7:30 p.m. | 4845 List Drive | Free | soccerhauscs. com | 719-761-7586 ■

CALENDAR

October 8

Cheap Trick

Reminisce and rock out when Cheap Trick visits the Pikes Peak Center! Formed in 1974, the band’s “I Want You to Want Me” and other pop rock hits led to 40+ international platinum and gold certifications— and they’re still rockin’!

7-9 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $50-$100 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 8-11, 11-15, 8-15 & 24-29

UFO Quilt Retreats

It’s “Quiltober” at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Divide! Bring your supplies and design, pin and sew those UFOs (UnFinished Objects) on big tables. Share ideas and tips and enjoy fall colors, new friends and delicious food.

4 p.m. | 709 County Road 62, Divide | $185-$650 | rmmc.org | 719-687-9506

October 9

Women Airforce Service Pilots of World War II

Local author and historian Sarah Byrn Rickman visits the East Library to share the remarkable stories of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) of World War II, who aided the U.S. war effort in the skies.

6 p.m. | 5550 N. Union Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 10

Rick Steves: European Travel Tips and Tools (Virtual)

In this entertaining, information-packed slideshow lecture, guidebook author and TV host Steves will teach you the secrets of safe, smart, inexpensive travel—low on stress and high on fun. Registration is required.

2 p.m. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 11

Hidden Treasures and Unique Things to Do

Ladies, learn about your hometown in this program presented by the city’s tourism bureau at Broadmoor Community Church, plus snacks,

socializing and sign-ups for activities. All women are welcome. See website for details.

9:30 a.m. | 315 Lake Ave. | Free | cmnccos.org

October 12

Derek Hough

Experience electrifying music, awe-inspiring dance and nonstop entertainment at this fast-paced show at the Pikes Peak Center! Emmy-winning, six-time “Dancing with the Stars” champion Hough and fellow dancers bring all their best moves.

7 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $46$106 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 12-29

“Misery”

You’ll be spellbound by Stephen King’s novel enacted at the Fine Arts Center. When a successful romance novelist is rescued from a car crash by his “number one fan,” he wakes up captive and controlled in her secluded home.

Varies from 2-7:30 p.m. | 30 W. Dale St. | $26-$61 | fac.coloradocollege. edu | 719-634-5581

October 13

David Spade

Funnyman Spade will keep you in stitches with his deadpan, droll sarcasm at the Pikes Peak Center! This Emmy-nominated veteran of “Saturday Night Live” and “Just Shoot Me” and the movie “Tommy Boy” delights with his Catch Me Inside tour.

8 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $45$75 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 13-14

St. Joseph’s Rosary Society

Craft Fair

Stop by St. Joseph Catholic Church for specialized crafts, homemade baked goods, delicious concessions and white elephant surprises.

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday | 1830 S. Corona St. | Free | stjosephcos.org | 719-632-5436

October 14

Painting at the Paint Mines

Budding and experienced artists are invited to paint this dynamic landscape with award-winning local artist Karen Storm. Bring your materials and medium of choice. Bonus: a partial eclipse will also occur! Prepaid registration is required.

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 29950 Paint Mine Road, Calhan | $30 | elpasocounty naturecenters.com | 719-520-6388

October 14 & 15

Celestial Dialogues Concert

When a solar eclipse comes to town, enjoy a concert of spacethemed orchestral music by the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs at Broadmoor Community Church (315 Lake Ave.) on Saturday and First Christian Church (16 E. Platte Ave.) on Sunday. Seniors receive $5 off admission.

7 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday | $30+ | ChamberOrchestra oftheSprings.org | 719-633-3649

October 14

Embracing Change

Learn to see change as a sacred gift at this retreat by One Simple Voice at Mt. Carmel Veterans Center. Lunch is included in the cost.

9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | 530 Communications Circle | $15 | onesimplevoice. org | 719-507-9255

October 14-15

Bazaar

Browse handmade items at First United Methodist Church, including jewelry, crafts, quilts, baked goods and frozen casseroles.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, -1 p.m. Sunday | 420 N. Nevada Ave. | Free | fumc-cs.org | 719-471-8522

October 18

SRC General Membership Meeting

The Senior Resource Council (SRC) welcomes industry leaders Stacy Osborne, Kim Searles and Jody Barker, who work to generate better outcomes for seniors. A Q & A session follows. Come to Liberty Heights with questions and get answers and

connection! Please register online.

8-9:30 a.m. | 12105 Ambassador Drive | One-time guest, yearly dues | seniorresourcecouncil.org | 719-260-0744

October 18

The Marshall Tucker Band

The country crooners who brought you “Heard It in a Love Song” bring their Southern seventies rock sound to the Pikes Peak Center! They’ve achieved multiplatinum album sales many times over. “Can’t You See” you should go?

7 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $41$76 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 19

Planning for the End

What does getting your affairs in order really entail? Get guidance at the Downtown YMCA. The parking is free and conveniently located.

1:30-3:30 p.m. | 207 N. Nevada Ave. | Free | journeycarecoordinating.com | 719-641-6850

October 19

Alice Cooper

Architect of shock rock and hitmaker of “School’s Out” is rockin’ the Pikes Peak Center! His theatrical horror psycho-drama generated platinum albums and sold-out tours, and he hosts radio’s “Nights With Alice Cooper.”

8 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $60$130 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

October 20

Bunco Party

Join the excitement, laughs and rolling dice at the Fountain Creek Nature Center. Dice, score cards, a nacho bar and prizes will be provided. Preregistration is required.

5-8:30 p.m. | 320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain | $8 | https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/bunco | 719-520-6745

October 20-22

Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival

Film fans, head to Colorado College to see local stories, unknown stories, stories that bridge the past, present

and future—all through the female lens. Join in person or virtually (October 26-29). See website for times

14 E. Cache La Poudre St. | $20-$170 | rmwfilm.org | 719-226-0450

October 21

Senior Life Expo

Seniors and their families won’t want to miss this community event at the DoubleTree by Hilton with the latest products, services and information on healthy aging. Visit with over 100 participating vendors and attend informative speaker sessions. Parking is free.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 1775 Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. | Free | seniorlife expocs.com | 719-636-0390

October 21&22

$10-$20 | parishhousebaroque.org | 719-377-0057

October 26

Lifetime of Writing: Conversation with Author John Irving (Virtual)

Join an intimate conversation with John Irving as he chats about his most recent novel, “The Last Chairlift,” and his prolific body of work. Registration is required.

5 p.m. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

October 26

John McEuen & the Circle Band McEuen, founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (NGBD), brings his guitar, banjo, fiddle and mandolin, along with favorite NGDB songs and the stories behind them, to Stargazers. He’s performed in 10,000 concerts and 300 TV appearances.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $25 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

Mozart & Prokofiev

Maestro Andrew Grams conducts four masterpieces at Ent Center for the Arts: Anna Clyne’s exuberant “PIVOT,” Mozart’s sublime “Piano Concerto No. 23” by pianist Albert Cano Smit, Anton Arensky’s little-known gem “Intermezzo” and Prokofiev’s witty “Classical Symphony.”

7:30-9 p.m. | 5225 N. Nevada Ave. | $36-$92 | csphilharmonic. org | 719-575-9632

October 22

From Then to Now

Parish House Baroque plays mesmerizing melodies on violin, recorders, cello and harpsichord/organ at the Peel House at First Lutheran Church from traditional composers, plus a Colorado premier by living composers Nicola Canzano and Frederico Maria Sardelli. A reception follows.

3-4:30 p.m. | 1515 N. Cascade Ave. |

October 27

Full Moon Photography at the Paint Mines

Join award-winning photographer Mike Pach for a guided photo shoot to capture the full moon (weather permitting!) rising over the Paint Mines. Bring your camera, tripod, telephoto and wide-angle lenses. Prepaid registration is required.

5-7 p.m. | 29950 Paint Mine Road, Calhan | $20 | elpasocountynature centers.com | 719-520-6388

October 29

Skillet & Theory of a Deadman

Rock out at the World Arena with Skillet, one of the best-selling rock bands of the 21st century. Their multiplatinum hits include “Monster,” “Hero,” “Awake and Alive” and “Legendary.” $1 from each ticket supports the Alzheimer’s Association.

8 p.m. | 3185 Venetucci Blvd. | $43$63 | broadmoorworldarena.com | 719-477-2100 ■

CLUBS

21st Century Toastmasters meets weekly at Library 21c.

Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-591-8045

ACC Grass Roots 307 Cribbage meets at the Colorado Springs Elks Lodge.

Wednesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 719-3311200

ACLU defends civil rights and liberties. Call for details. 303-777-5482

Austin Bluffs Sertoma, a community service organization, meets twice monthly for breakfast at Embassy Suites.

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 7:30 a.m. |

719-460-5561

Austrian-American Enzian Club is a German-speaking culture club that meets at VFW Post #101.

2nd Wednesday | 2-4 p.m. |

719-380-1163

Black Forest AARP meets for a potluck at Black Forest Lutheran Church.

2nd Wednesday | 12 p.m. |

719-596-6787

Black Forest Trails Association meetings are open to the public at Black Forest Community Club.

2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | black foresttrails.org

Blazer Ski Club meets year round with organized ski trips, golf, hiking and more.

Wednesdays | blazerskiclub.org

Breakfast Club for Singles 50+ meets for breakfast at the Elks Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Cost is $22 (cash or check). Must RSVP.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-260-0651 | tbc50plus.org

Bridge Players Duplicate plays daily at the Bridge Center. Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m. | Tuesdays at 9 a.m. | Saturdays at 6 p.m. | 719-634-7250

Broadmoor Rotary Club meets for lunch with a speaker at DoubleTree by Hilton. Please RSVP.

1st and 3rd Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 740-707-3022 | rotarybroadmoor. com

Bulldog Club meets monthly at Westside Community Center.

4th Monday | 6-8 p.m. | chloed howard@yahoo.com

Carnelian Coffee Book Club meets at Carnelian Coffee.

1st Sunday | 1 p.m. | jpaisley@ppld.org

Chess Club meets weekly at Westside Community Center. Fridays | 12-2 p.m. | 719-648-1481

Cheyenne Mountain Hooked on Crochet meets virtually to crochet or knit.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 10 a.m. | PPLD.org | 719-389-8968

Cheyenne Mountain Newcomers Club, a social club for women, meets monthly, September through April, at Broadmoor Community Church. Annual dues are $40.

2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. | cmnccos. org

Colorado Springs Chess Club meets at Acacia Apartments ballroom.

Tuesdays | 6 p.m.

Colorado Springs Coin Club meets at Fraternal Order of Eagles #143.

4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-632-4260

Colorado Springs Cribbage Club

#307 meets weekly at the Elk’s Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Arrive early to meet other players. Wednesdays | 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society, active since 1936, meets monthly at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Use the employee entrance in the back.

3rd Thursday | 7-9 p.m. | csms1936. com

Colorado Springs Numismatic Society meets at Gold Hill Police Station’s community room.

2nd Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-632-4260

Colorado Springs Scrabble Club meets virtually for three games on Woogles.io.

Mondays | 5:45-9 p.m. | 719-3325141

Colorado Springs Stamp Club

meets at Vista Grande Baptist Church.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m.

COS Miata Club, for Mazda Miata owners, meets for monthly drives around the Pikes Peak region. meetup.com/cosmiata | 719-6517739

Curiosity Unlimited offers continuous learning opportunities with UCCS professor lectures at Ent Center for the Arts, Chapman Foundations Recital Hall. Visitors welcome!

2nd Friday | 10 a.m. | uccs.edu/ curiosity | 719-755-5082

DAV Knob Hill holds a bingo fundraiser at 6880 Palmer Park Blvd. to help aid local veterans. Sundays | 5:30-9 p.m. | 719-591-8787

3rd Friday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-7483939

Ford Mustang Club for Mustang owners/enthusiasts meets monthly at Phil Long Ford Motor City.

3rd Saturday | 4:30 p.m. | mustang ers.com

Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship meets for breakfast at IHOP, 6005 Constitution Ave.

2nd Saturday | 7:30 a.m. | 719-2293317

Gleneagle Sertoma, a community service organization, meets for lunch at Beast and Brews, 7 Spectrum Loop.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m. | 719-331-1212

Gold Camp Victorian Society meets at Cripple Creek Heritage Center.

4th Saturday | 2 p.m. | info@gold campvictoriansociety.org

Downtown Lions Club hosts a civic speaker and meets at MacKenzie’s Chop House, 128 S. Tejon St.

3rd Tuesday | 12:15-1:30 p.m. | 719338-7375

Evening Adult Fiction Book Club for daytime workers meets at Woodland Park Library.

1st Wednesday | 5 p.m.

Falcon Adult Group meets at High Prairie Library.

1st Wednesday | 11 a.m.

Falcon Garden Club meets at High Prairie Library.

3rd Saturday | 10 a.m. | falcon gardenclub.org

Florissant Bookworms meets monthly at Florissant Library.

2nd Wednesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-748-3939

Falcon Wanderers Volkssport Club meets for regular walks. Membership dues are $10 per person and $16 per couple.

719-597-4307 | falconwanderers.org

Friends at the Table Cooking Club meets at Florissant Library.

Hi-Country Newcomers is a social group open to all women in Colorado Springs. Activities include hiking, book club, games, lunches and tours. Call for membership.

2nd Monday | 10 a.m. | 719-464-7633

International Dance Club hosts weekly dances. Live bands, variety of styles, family friendly. Cost is $12. Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | international danceclub.org | 719-633-0195

Maxi’s Dance Group meets at Eagles Club #143 with music for ages 40+ and food and drinks for purchase. Cover is $5 members, $8 non-members.

Thursdays | 6-9 p.m. | 719-660-1358. Open Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

3rd Saturday | 11 a.m. | 719-6879281

Paralyzed Vets of America plays weekly at Bingo World.

Tuesdays | 12 p.m. | 719-578-1441

Pikes Peak Camera Club meets at Living Hope Church, 640 Manitou Blvd.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 719-6342376 | pikespeakcameraclub.com

Pikes Peak Computer Application Society meets at Springs Community Church, 7290 Lexington Dr.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | asdtitus@ gmail.com

Pikes Peak Genealogical Society meets virtually.

2nd Wednesday | 6 p.m. | ppgs.org

Pikes Peak Over the Hill Gang meets monthly for dinner. This club is for active adults 50+ who enjoy skiing, biking, hiking, golfing, camping, etc. Membership required.

2nd Wednesday | ppothg.com.

Pikes Peak Pastel Society meets at Library 21c. Call for times. 719-338-5548 | pikespeakpastel.org

Pikes Peak Posse of the Westerners meets for dinner and a program at the Masonic Center. Please RSVP.

2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | 719-473-0330

Pikes Peak Water Garden Society meets at Mountain View Church of Christ (April through October).

2nd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 719-6480740 | ppwgs.org

Pikes Peak Whittlers meets monthly at Redeemer Lutheran Church.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | pikespeakwhittlers.com

Rampart Range Blue Star Mothers meets at Falcon Police Department.

1st Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-651-8038

Read Amok Book Club meets at Florissant Library.

2nd Monday | 11 a.m. | 719-7483939

Reader’s Circle Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

2nd Thursday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-6879281

Red Hat Ladies meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

1st & 3rd Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-6002644

Rotary Club meets weekly for lunch and a speaker at the DoubleTree Hotel. Visit website for Zoom link and to RSVP.

Fridays | 12:15 p.m. | 719-338-3239 | portal.clubrunner.ca/3250

Silicon Mountain Mac User Group meets virtually. Visit website for link.

2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | smmug.org

Sno-Jets Ski & Adventure Club meets at The Public House at The Alexander. See website for ski trips, biking, hiking and other activities.

1st Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | snojets.org

Socrates Cafe meets weekly for discussion at the Monument Library. Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 719-531-6333

Sons and Daughters of Italy meets for dinner and a meeting at VFW Post #101.

1st Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | 719-210-2025

Sons of Norway meets at Viking Hall.

2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-574-3717

Spanish Conversation Group meets weekly at the East Library. Intermediate-advanced Spanish learners and native speakers discuss a variety of topics.

Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-244-

5902

Veterans of Korean Service meets at BPOE Elks 304, 3400 N. Nevada Ave. Lunch and speaker are $13. Call to RSVP.

3rd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-2146121

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1075, meets at Skills Academy, 1575 Garden of the Gods Road.

Last Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-2358162 | vva1075.org

Women’s Army Corps Veterans Association meets at Sand Creek Police Station.

4th Saturday | 10 a.m. | peakwac vets@yahoo.com

Woodland Park Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

1st Tuesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-687-9281

Yarnia! Knitting & Crochet Club meets at Florissant Library.

2nd Thursday | 10 a.m. | 719-748-3939 ■

BEACON BITS

Solar eclipse talks and viewing

Come to various Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) locations to learn from the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society what solar eclipses are, their historical and modern cultural context in society, the science behind them and where and how to (safely) see these celestial events. Solar-powered telescopes will be set up (weather permitting) to capture amazing views of the sun, and eclipse viewing solar glasses will be distributed. The sessions are:

• October 4, 1 p.m.

Old Colorado City Library

• October 9, 1 p.m.

Penrose Library

• October 12, 5:30 p.m.

Cheyenne Mountain Library

On October 14, a solar eclipse will be partially visible from Colorado Springs. A Viewing Party for the Great American Eclipse will be held at George Fellows Park on the grounds of the East Library, 5550 N. Union Blvd., from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. You’ll find games, activities and

Fountain Valley Senior Center offers free vaccinations this fall

New strains of COVID-19 and flu are circulating, and seniors have a higher risk of severe illness from these viruses. Fountain Valley Senior Center (FVSC) is doing its part to help. FVSC is one of 150 senior centers across the country selected by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) to vaccinate seniors in the fall respiratory illness season. Participating senior centers receive $10,000 each and are

required to provide a minimum of 100 updated COVID-19 or flu shots. The NCOA is particularly interested in connecting with diverse, hard-to-reach populations, including communities of color, rural individuals and Spanish speakers. FVSC is located at 5745 Southmoor Drive, Fountain. Dates and times TBA. Call 719600-2644 or visit fvscenter.org for more information.

Colorado Springs Senior Chorale seeks additional voices

Studies show that group singing encourages trust, cooperation and social cohesion. If you’d like to find out for yourself, Colorado Springs

Senior Chorale of the Rockies is looking for members. Tenor and bass singers are especially needed, but all voices are welcome. There are no tryouts required—just a love of singing. The Chorale presents two performances yearly, in June and December. Practice takes place every Monday from 1:15-3:15 p.m. at the downtown YMCA, with free parking in the YMCA parking structure. To find out more, call Elizabeth at 719-392-6031.

light refreshments. Bring your viewing glasses. Visit ppld.org for more information.

Centura Health changes its name to CommonSpirit

Since forming Centura Health as a management company in 1996, AdventHealth and CommonSpirit Health have worked together to meet the needs of communities

Voices of Grief offers healing through song events

Anyone with a loss to grieve is invited to “A Community Gathering of Song and Healing” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on October 9 at Ent Center for the Arts. Voices of Grief Support and Education Center is partnering with soulful vocalist and thrice-Grammy-nominated composer and conductor Melanie DeMore, who believes that music has the unique ability to hold and heal us. Tickets are $15. On October 10, professional care providers may meet with DeMore and a healing arts panel of local professionals from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. for training on using the arts in a broad variety of therapeutic interactions, including depression, grief, Alzheimer’s and behavioral health. Tickets are $35. All are welcome, regardless of ability to pay. To request a scholarship, email info@voicesofgriefcenter.org. The Ent Center is located at 5225 N. Nevada Ave. Art exhibits will be open for viewing in the lobby. The BEACON is pleased to support this community outreach. For more information on either event, go to VoicesOfGriefCenter.org or call 719-659-0447.

across Colorado, Kansas and Utah. But the two groups determined that they can best serve their communities without a partnership, directly managing their respective care sites. CommonSpirit Health now directly manages its 20 hospitals and affiliated clinics, including Penrose Hospital and St. Francis Hospital in Colorado Springs. With this transition, the Centura Health name and logo will soon be retired, and you’ll begin to see CommonSpirit Health referenced. While the hospitals and clinics may no longer have Centura in their name, you will continue to receive the same compassionate care from the caregivers you know and trust. For more information, visit CommonSpirit.org.

Fall hymn sing ushers in the season

One Voice Mission is holding a fall hymn sing at Northeast Bible Church, 1722 McArthur Ave., on October 14 at 3 p.m. Come and raise your voice in worship with traditional hymns. Admission is free. For information, contact 719-3580511 or visit onevoicemission.org.

Mountain Metro breaks a ridership record

Riding city buses for free is easy on the environment and the wallet. For seniors who don’t drive, public transportation can be a lifeline, enabling them to go to work, medical appointments, grocery shopping, etc. Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) set an all-time ridership record in August, with 366,922 boardings. During the Zero Fare for Better Air initiative in summer 2023, MMT saw more than 1 million riders take advantage of the free fares. Zero Fare for Better Air is a statewide initiative designed to reduce ground-level ozone by increasing use of public transit. Through Colorado Senate and House approval and a partnership with the Colorado Energy Office, MMT joined other public transit agencies by offering zero fares on all bus and ADA paratransit services for the summer. Even though the free fare offer has concluded, the fare is still a good deal at less than a dollar for those aged 60 and up. For more information about rates and routes, go to MMTransit.com. ■

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is for those who desire sobriety to share their experience, strength and hope with each other. Check the website to find a meeting.

Varied times | coloradospringsaa. org

Alzheimer’s Association offers free caregiver support, in person and virtually. Call 24/7 to register. 800-272-3900

Amputee Support Group meets at Encompass Rehab Hospital.

1st Tuesdays | 5-6:30 p.m. | 719-632-5075

Community Reinforcement And Family Training (CRAFT) has support for families and friends of loved ones struggling with substance use at Springs Recovery Connection. English, Spanish, virtual and in-person options are available.

719-377-2161 | aneeley@srchope.org

Daddy’s Little Girls brings hope to abuse survivors through the love of Jesus Christ.

719-649-9054 | daddyslittlegirls.net

Dementia Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 719600-2644

Depression and Bipolar Support has support for those living with or affected by mood disorders.

719-477-1515 | dbsacolorado springs.org

El Paso County Colorado

Progressive Veterans helps veterans, active duty military and their families with VA health care and disability, homelessness, emergency needs, PTSD and mental health support.

719-488-8351 | epccpv.org | info@epccpv.org

Emotions Anonymous, a program for unsolved emotional problems, meets at First Lutheran Church, 1515 N. Cascade Ave.

Mondays | 6 p.m. | 719-235-1798

Falcon Senior Services meets at Patriot High School in Falcon.

2nd Wednesday | 11 a.m. |

719-494-0353

Gamblers Anonymous meets vir-

tually and in person at the Dwelling Place, 508 N. Tejon St. Virtual: Check coloradoga.org In-person: Mondays at 6 p.m. | Saturdays at 9 a.m.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren supports those parenting grandkids. Call for details. 719-578-8007

Grief Share helps attendees find healing after losing a loved one.

4th Tuesday | 10 a.m. | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com

Headway Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group meets at Fargo’s Pizza, 2910 E. Platte Ave.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. | 719-459-0901

Hearing Loss Association of America meets virtually. hlaacoloradosprings.org

Keeping in Balance with the Life Tree meets weekly at Ambrose Family Health. Sessions are $5. Thursdays | 2-3 p.m. | 719-203-5340

Life Without Lupus Foundation, for those with an autoimmune disorder, meets quarterly, typically at East Library.

4th Thursday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-3808330 | lifewithoutlupus.life

Low-Vision Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

3rd Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 719-600-2644

Multiple Sclerosis Alliance meets virtually and in-person. Visit website for schedule.

719-633-4603 | msasoco.org

NAMI Support Groups meet virtually and in person at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave. Registration required: 719-473-

8477, namicoloradosprings.org

• Connection Support Group is for those living with mental health conditions.

Virtual: Tuesdays | 7 p.m.

In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 235

• Family Support Group is for family members of people living with mental health conditions.

Virtual: Wednesdays | 7 p.m.

In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 234

Near Death Experience Group meets to share and talk about this life-changing experience that 1 out of 20 people have had. The meeting place varies, but it’s generally in the 80906 zip code. confidentiallistening@gmail.com

Overeaters Anonymous meets daily over Zoom (except Sundays) and in person on Thursdays at Peak Vista Community Health Center.

In person: Thursdays | 9-10:15 a.m. | 719-205-9080 | oasouthern colorado.org

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Central United Methodist Church, 4373 Galley Road.

1st Saturday | 10 a.m. | co-parkin son.org

PEARLS Connect, for people over 60 who feel overwhelmed by life’s issues, meets monthly.

2nd Tuesdays | 3-4:40 p.m. | 719459-2017

Polio Survivors Support Group meets regularly. Call for details. 303-212-0017

Prison Support Group for those with incarcerated loved ones meets weekly in the prayer room at Woodmen Valley Chapel.

Thursdays | 1 p.m. | 602-762-0900

Project Angel Heart delivers free nutritious meals to those living with life-threatening illness. 719-323-0084

Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group meets virtually through The Independence Center.

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-471-8181

Widowed Persons Grief Support Group meets twice monthly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.

2nd & 4th Fridays | 1-2 p.m. | 719955-3400 ■

FUN AFTER 50

mending needs, such as a frayed buttonhole or seam reinforcement.

1-4 p.m. | Oct. 9-Nov. 6 | $43

Coffee with a Cop

1514

N. Hancock Ave., Colorado Springs

To register for classes, call 719-955-3400 or visit CSSeniorCenter.com

During the renovation, the Senior Center will continue programming at the Downtown YMCA, Westside Community Center, Southeast Armed Services YMCA and YMCA at First & Main.

DOWNTOWN YMCA

Mark Twain Today!

Mark Twain’s wit, wisdom and humor entertains at this living history performance.

2-3 p.m. | Oct. 5 | $5

Tunes on Tuesday: Cultural Didgeridoo

Come experience the essence and vibrations of this Australian Aboriginal instrument.

1:30-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 17 | Free

Thursday Dances

Have fun dancing, and don’t forget to tip the band!

2-3:30 p.m. | Oct. 12 & 26

Mediterranean Diet Workshop

Learn the key characteristics of the Mediterranean lifestyle and how it contributes to health.

10-11:30 a.m. | Oct. 30 | $5

Trick or Treat Senior Style!

Get costumed up and bring a bag to get treats and learn about organizations that serve seniors.

1:30-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 31 | Free

WESTSIDE

Silent Auction

Theme: Ignite Your Passions. Share your interests through items at the annual auction, and come ready to bid!

9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Oct. 2-8

Mending Without a Sewing Machine

Learn how to hand stitch your

Enjoy coffee and conversation with a representative from the Police Department.

9:30-10:30 a.m. | Oct. 6 | Free

Have a Better Garden Next Year

Learn to work with Colorado winters and take steps now for healthy results next year.

1-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 11 | Free

Nurse Chats: Blood Pressure 101 If you have a cuff or machine and want to check its accuracy, bring it in and an R.N. will assess it.

1-2 p.m. | Oct. 25 | Free

Wills vs. Trusts

An attorney explains the difference and which one suits your needs.

1-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 16 | $5

Groups and Clubs

There is space to host additional groups and clubs. Please contact the Senior Center if interested in starting one.

Portrait Artists

9-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Jolly Stampers

12-3:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Group Painting

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Thursdays

Chess Club

12-2 p.m. | Fridays

Open Studio Painting

1-4 p.m. | Fridays

YMCA AT FIRST & MAIN

Preparing

for Medicare

Enrollment

Identify key factors for competing Medicare plans going into 2024.

1:30-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 11 | Free

Understanding Retirement Risks

Understand the new risks and how to mitigate them in retirement.

1:30-3:30 p.m. | Oct. 18 | Free

Digestive Discomfort

Discover the importance of microbial balance in the gut.

1:30-3:30 p.m. | Oct. 18 | Free

66 Jefferson St., Monument

To register for classes, call 719-464-6873 or visit SilverKey.org/trilakes

SPECIAL EVENTS

Ice Cream Social

Enjoy a cool, creamy treat!

11 a.m. | Oct. 6

Medicare 101

Enjoy a snack and learn what’s new for the next enrollment season. Please RSVP.

11 a.m. | Oct. 27 | 719-464-6873

Halloween Party

Dress up and get your scare on! Bring an appetizer to share. Please RSVP.

12 p.m. | Oct. 31 | 719-464-6873

ACTIVITIES

Arts & Crafts

Socialize while you work on a weekly craft project.

11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Thursdays

Circle Talk

Come as strangers, leave as friends through lighthearted conversation. Please RSVP.

10:30 a.m. | Mondays | 719-8842300

MEALS

Connections Café

Enjoy hot, nutritious meals and socialize with others.

11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays

Bingo

GAMES

Play for fun and prizes! Must RSVP.

12-1 p.m. | Oct. 18 | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com

Bunco

Bring $3 and a snack to share.

1-3 p.m. | Oct. 13

Chess Club

Beginners are welcome.

12 p.m. | Mondays

Spades

Let the bidding wars begin!

11 a.m. | Tuesdays

Pinochle

A classic combination of bidding, melding and trick-taking in one card game.

12-4 p.m. | Tuesdays

Hand & Foot

Be the first to get rid of your cards “hand first,” then foot in this Canasta-style game.

1-4 p.m. | Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Mah jongg

Tile-based game with racks to hold players’ tiles (not mah jongg solitaire).

1-4 p.m. | Fridays

EXERCISE

Class fee: $50 per month (unlimited), $60 for 10-class punch card, or $8 drop-in

Lean & Fit

Build strength and endurance in this muscle conditioning class.

9-10 a.m. | Mondays

Yoga

Vinyasa is an energetic form of yoga designed to connect your breathing to your movements.

10:15 -11 a.m. | Mondays

Tai Chi Fusion

Reduce stress and promote serenity through gentle, flowing movements.

12-1 p.m. | Mondays

Strong for Life

This circuit-style workout incorporates cardio and weight training.

1:30 p.m. | Mondays

Gentle Yoga

A slow, gentle class focusing on strength and alignment.

10:15-11 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

Mind-ergize

Exercise your brain!

12-1 p.m. Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. Fridays

Line Dancing

Choreographed dancing to a variety of music.

1:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

To register for classes, call 719-600-2644 or visit FVSCenter.org

SPECIAL EVENTS

Vendor Fair

Discover helpful products and services in the conference room.

2-3 p.m. | Oct. 5

Diana’s Corn Maze

Try not to get lost in Cañon City!

9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Oct. 13 | $30

Dinner on the Town

Enjoy Italian cuisine at Paninos. Please RSVP.

5 p.m. | Oct. 25

Trunk or Treat

Dress up and gather goodies from cars.

11:30 a.m. | Oct. 27

Barb Bragdon’s Halloween

No tricks–just good eats and music for the season!

11:30 a.m. | Oct. 31 | $16

ART

Interpretive Dance

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Mondays

Knitting/Crocheting

1-2 p.m. | Mondays

Tap Dance

10:15 a.m. | Tuesdays

Porcelain/Ceramics

9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; 12:30-3 p.m. |

Tuesdays

Quilters

8:30-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Oil Painting

9-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Harmonizers

2 p.m. | Wednesdays

Woodcarving

8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Thursdays

Card Making

a.m. | Thursdays

HEALTH

Dementia Support Group

2-3:30 p.m. | 3rd Monday

Chair Yoga

2:30-3:30 p.m.

WOODLAND PARK

SENIOR ORGANIZATION

321 N. Pine St., Woodland Park

To register for classes, call 719-687-3877 or visit WoodlandParkSeniors.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Aging Mastery Program

This fun and engaging education and behavior change incentive program helps with aging well.

1-4 p.m. | Oct. 3-31 | $20

Wildwood Casino Trip

However you roll the dice–hopefully luck is in the air!

10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. | Oct. 6 | Free

Bingo

Play for fun and prizes!

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Thursdays

ARTS & CRAFTS

Holiday Bazaar Crafts Workshop

‘Tis the season to be crafting!

1-4 p.m. | Fridays

Watercolor

Learn to paint with washes and layers. 1-4 p.m. | Oct. 16

EXERCISE

Low-Impact Cardio

Tone muscle and pump up the heart in this low-impact exercise program.

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Chair Yoga

Seated yoga poses improve circulation and range of motion and reduce stress.

9 a.m. | Wednesdays

Line Dancing

Choreographed moves to a variety of music.

10 a.m. | Wednesdays

Chair Tai Chi

WW II Museum Trip

Dive into history through fascinating exhibits and objects.

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Oct. 20 | Free

ACTIVITIES

Quilters

Bring a project to work on and socialize.

9 a.m. | Mondays

Dominos, Cribbage & Euchre

Choose to play any of these domino games—or all three!

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Monday-Friday

Mah Jongg

This tile-based game was developed in China.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays

Bridge

Partner up for this trick-taking game.

11 a.m. | Tuesdays

Crochet & Knitting

Bring a project to work on and socialize.

10 a.m. | Wednesdays

Gentle, flowing movements alleviate stress, improve balance and reduce fall risk.

9 a.m. | Fridays

Zumba

Cardio workout to Latin-inspired dances.

10 a.m. | Fridays

MEALS

Silver Key Lunch

Make a reservation 24 hours in advance.

11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Monday-Friday | $3.50

Potluck Lunch

Bring a dish to share.

11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Oct. 10

Catered Meal & Program

Enjoy a delicious lunch and learn about “Senior Choice Benefits–Medicare Update.”

11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. | Oct. 24 | $7

5745 Southmoor Dr., Colorado Springs

ACROSS

1. IRS IDs

5. Accumulate 10. Quick punch

13. Like an abyss

14. Signify

16. Downed 17. Soapy

19. Mohawk-sporting actor 20. Destiny 21. Artilleryman

23. Proverb ending?

24. Skin marking, often due to injury 26. Greek peak 27. Respiration 29. Lucidity

32. Scottish loch, home to a monster! 33. Director’s shout 36. Rebirth of the soul in a new body 41. Collision 42. Spiny houseplant 44. Patella 48. Sharpening 50. Able was ___... 51. Excuse me...

53. Brandy letters 54. Colorful vocabulary

9 OUT OF 10 CHIROPRACTORS AGREE.

9OUTOF10

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58. Understanding words

60. Conscription org.

61. Approximations

64. Fair-hiring abbr.

65. Ham

66. Ascend

67. Hosp. workers

68. Hotpoint rival

69. Robt. DOWN

1. Radical ’60s org.

2. Ocean traveler

3. Like some mountain guides

4. Small blemish

5. Abbr. on a toothpaste box

6. Hajj destination

7. Lend ___

8. Before long 9. Astound 10. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots 11. Still 12. Be unfaithful

15. “___ Beso” (1962 hit)

18. Snug spot

22. And not

23. ___ Saud

25. Brownish gray baboon

28. ___ was saying...

29. Pres., militarily

30. Feel intense aversion

Picnic pest

___ Crunch

Singer

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COMPUTER & MEDIA

FLAT RATE COMPUTER REPAIR.

Starting at $60. Free pickup & delivery or up to 2 hours of on-site tune-up, virus removal and/or training. Call Richard with SOBE I.T. 719-470-1910.

FOR RENT

Chapel for rent $1,500 monthly 1318 North Circle Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80909. Available immediately

Large chapel Sunday at 11am or smaller Chapel Saturday night. Has steps at entry. Call for showing Stephanie 520-585-3374 or Kasper 719-452-1742.

Affordable Apartments for Seniors 50+. 3933 East San Miguel St. Colorado Springs, CO 80909. One-bedroom: $875 monthly. Twobedroom: $1,025 monthly. Gas and water included. $500 deposit. No Pets. No Smoking. Call Penny at 720-373-9330.

FOR RENT

The Villa at Sunny Vista, a HUDsubsidized senior and disabled adults apartment complex located at 2480 East Dale Street in Colorado Springs, announces their waitlist will open on October 6, 2023 and close on November 17, 2023. The Villa is an independent living facility with age, disability and income requirements. Applications are entered in the order they are received. Pick up an application at the building on or after October 5, 2023 or call (719) 6359595 to request an application. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

FOR SALE

HOT! COOL! TRENDY! GIFT-WORTHY! REUSABLE DESIGNER BAGS & HANKIES! Sturdy, handmade “green” Shopping Bags! Daily Bags! Gift Bags!

GENTLEMEN’S Bags & Hankies! HighFashion Bags! Fun-themed Bags! ROMANTIC RETICULES! Designed by Sunny! SUNNYSELLS2@GMAIL.COM. 719-271-0165.

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

St Joseph’s Rosary Society Craft Fair. October 13th from 10:30 am-5 pm and October 14th from 10 am-3 pm. FREE! 23 Crafters, baked goods, concessions, and white elephant. Call Pat 719-632-5436 or Eloise 719-9487887. 1830 S. Corona St., 80906.

Maxi’s Dance Group is back! Dance party every Thursday 6-9pm, Eagles Club 1050 S. 21st St. Music for ages 40+, food and drink available for purchase. $8 cover; $5 members. 719-660-1358.

HELP WANTED

VOLUNTEER AT SILVER KEY to help provide seniors with meals, rides, companionship, food pantry support, and veterans support. Office staff and handyman tasks are also needed. Please apply online at: silverkey.org/ vip-new/ or call 719-884-2300.

PIKES PEAK TROLLEY MUSEUM & RESTORATION SHOP. Do you love local history, trolleys, and railroads? Openings for tour guides, admin., and trolley restoration. A fun place to volunteer! 719-475-9508 or csstreetcarfdn@aol.com

HOME REPAIR

MORE THAN A HANDYMAN. Home Maintenance, Repairs, Yard Work. 15% Senior Discount (62+). Call Mike - a Senior and Veteran. 719-338-4279. Voice mail answered same day.

HOME REPAIR

HANDYMAN SERVICES. ODD

JOBS Plumbing, Carpentry, Fences, Decks, Doors, and more. (Mowing or yardwork in the spring and summer.) John 719-471-7471.

PERSONALS

Looking for someone to go on outings, from museums to rodeos, horses and travel, interests are varied. 74-yearold Caucasian female seeking Caucasian male 74-79 with similar interests. 719-660-7110

Black female 71 yrs. old, seeking a gentlemen 71-75 years old. Race not important. Honest and trustworthy. Non-smoker, no drugs nor excessive use of alcohol. Only sincere reply. 719-619-6569

PETS

GRASS HAY FOR SALE 60-65 lb. bales at $12 a bale. Pick-up south of Franktown. Call 303-470-0668 Please leave a message. First cutting covered and ready.

SERVICES

PET SITTING. I can watch your dogs, cats, home, plants, birds, and fish for weekend trips and long vacations. Experienced. Call Sue 719-302-3338

CARING CHRISTIAN LADY ASSISTANT: Home-cooking, Cleaning, errands, projects: [Gardening, downsizing, (un)packing, organizing, party prep.], Housesitting, etc. PRIVATE

SECRETARY: Christmas mailouts, calls, filing, notes, research, etc.

COMPANION: Home, walks, Events, Travel. ADVOCATE. Sunny 719-2710165

DAILY LABOR: Lawn mowing, gutter cleaning, yard cleaning, house cleaning, gardening, handyman repairs by size. Painting $25 per hour. 719-310-5247.

“You Can Relax Knowing Helping Hands Are On The Job!” ~ We’re Full-Service Movers ~ PACKING • ALL THE LIFTING MOVING • UNPACKING

S.C.S.E. SANDYS CARE SERVICE EXPRESS. Need help? Grocery shopping, prescription pickup, mail, bank, non-medial caregiving, shower assistance, meals, pet feeding, etc. Variable hours. Specializing in same day and last minute. 719-203-8898.

SPRINKLER WINTERIZATION. Licensed and insured. Standard residential system $65. Call or Text Abundant Landscaping Service. 719596-9858

WANTED

1950S-1960S LP’S, 78’s AND 45’s. Blues, jazz, rock ‘n roll, country, Broadway, movie soundtracks, TV, R&B, soul, children’s, spoken word, etc. I’m a collector, not a business. Call me first - I pay the most for your records. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288

CASH FOR OLD BANKS AND TOYS, presidential pin back buttons, Simpich dolls, military insignia and memorabilia. Will buy single items or entire collections. 719-632-9904.

VINTAGE ITEMS WANTED. TOYS, comic books, children’s books, dolls, movie and music posters, Halloween, guitars and amplifiers, and plastic model kits. I’m a collector, not a business. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288.

Music has the unique ability to inspire healing. Dynamic performer and teacher, Melanie DeMore, will harness the power of music to facilitate healing at a time when so many of us are navigating loss and grief. Francis Weller says there is an intimacy between grief and aliveness, a sacred exchange between what’s unbearable and what is exquisitely alive.

Join us as Melanie brings her joy and energy to the very air you breathe.

Two Events:

October 9-10, 2023

Ent Center for the Arts

5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs

Monday, October 9, 6:30-8:30pm

A Community celebration of song & healing

Melanie DeMore will lead the way as we sing together in community, playfully transforming our grief with compassion, art, music, drumming and dance!

All are welcome regardless of ability to pay

Tickets: $15 Open to all

Tuesday, October 10, 9:30am-Noon

An event for professional care providers

Join Melanie DeMore as she explores how the arts, music and dance inform work with depression, grief, Alzheimer’s and behavioral health. Melanie will share the stage with a local Healing Arts panel.

Tickets: $35

Visit VoicesOfGriefCenter.org/events for details and tickets

Don’t vote for a number

By Dr. Glenn Mollette

Are President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump too old to be president of the United States? The answer to this question varies and depends on your perspective.

This perspective hinges on your expectations of America’s president. Should he or she be able to run up steps? What about walking down the steps from Airforce One without looking down? This is a good trick.

We have to be careful about hanging a number on the maximum

articulate? Does the candidate demonstrate leadership skills that we need to lead this country forward to better times? Will they be a peacemaker? Will they be a strong presence on the world stage?

Seventy million Americans don’t want a president who is going to cut Social Security or Medicare benefits. Millions of Americans over 50 don’t want the Social Security retirement age raised from 67 to 70. No one in this age bracket is going to support a candidate who infers either of the changes. Some say the full benefits age should nev-

age to serve as president. Eighty may be too old, but maybe it’s not. I heard Billy Graham preach when he was 80, and he came on the stage talking and preaching like a dynamo! There was nothing inarticulate or incoherent about him. There are millions of 80-plus-year-old people in this nation who live active lives and have a lot to contribute to our country.

However, we have to be realistic. There are millions of 80-year-old Americans who are barely alive. Their health is terrible! Many can’t care for themselves, let alone care for a nation. Furthermore, there are millions of Americans between 36 and 70 who are not mentally or physically healthy enough to hold down the world’s biggest job.

Every presidential candidate must be evaluated by each American. We have to look at all of the candidates circumspectly. Do they have the knowledge, skills and relevant experience? Are they

er have been raised from 65 to 67. Millions of Americans will pay into Social Security all their lives but never make it to age 67, and thus never collect a penny. Of course, these people can collect a smaller amount if they want to retire at 62 and live on much less, which isn’t a viable option for many.

Don’t vote for someone just because they are young and vigorous. Youth is attractive and often charismatic, but it sometimes makes mistakes. Don’t vote for someone just because they’re 80. Hopefully they are wise and experienced, but they may be on the verge of becoming too frail.

Look at the whole person. Look at what he or she is able to bring to the job and potentially do to lead our nation. Age is just a number. ■

Glenn Mollette is the author of 13 books. His column is published weekly in over 500 U.S. publications. Visit GlennMollette.com

Turning 65 or new to Medicare?

Find out if you are eligible to enroll in a Humana

Medicare Advantage plan

Find out if you are eligible to enroll in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan

Find out if you are eligible to enroll in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan

You may find the benefit you’re looking for in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan. Ask your agent. You may still be able to enroll if:

You may find the benefit you’re looking for in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan. Ask your agent. You may still be able to enroll if:

You may find the benefit you’re looking for in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan. Ask your agent. You may still be able to enroll if:

• You’ve moved out of your plan service area

• You’ve moved out of your plan service area

• You’ve moved out of your plan service area

• You’ve lost health coverage

• You’ve lost health coverage

• You’ve lost health coverage

• You’re newly eligible for Medicare

• You’re newly eligible for Medicare

• You’re newly eligible for Medicare

• You have other qualifying circumstances

• You have other qualifying circumstances

• You have other qualifying circumstances

Humana has a broad selection of Medicare Advantage plans. And Humana is here to help members, from finding a doctor to arranging a ride for those whose plans include transportation benefits. That’s human care.

Humana has a broad selection of Medicare Advantage plans. And Humana is here to help members, from finding a doctor to arranging a ride for those whose plans include transportation benefits. That’s human care.

Humana has a broad selection of Medicare Advantage plans. And Humana is here to help members, from finding a doctor to arranging a ride for those whose plans include transportation benefits. That’s human care.

Stop by and speak to a licensed Humana sales agent in your community

Humana MarketPoint® office

Stop by and speak to a licensed Humana sales agent in your community

Stop by and speak to a licensed Humana sales agent in your community

719-532-7700 (TTY: 711)

Come visit me at:

Humana MarketPoint® office

Humana MarketPoint® office

Humana MarketPoint® office

719-532-7700 (TTY: 711)

719-532-7700 (TTY: 711)

5310 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Come visit me at:

Come visit me at:

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Humana MarketPoint® office

Humana MarketPoint® office

5310 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80918

5310 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A more human way to healtcare™

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文 ，您可以免費獲得語

A more human way to healtcare™

言援助服務 。請致電 877-320-1235（聽障專線：711）。

A more human way to healtcare™ Humana

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comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,