August 2023 - WC BEACON Senior News

10

Vote for Volunteer of the Year

The winner will be announced at Montrose-Delta BeaconFest on Thursday, Sept. 14

It’s Not Funny Anymore

As short-term memory fades, our loved ones repeat questions like “What time is it?” or other familiar things like bad jokes from the past

16 7 Ways Lemon Juice Can Improve Your Health

As refreshing as a squeeze of lemon juice in your water can be, lemons can do so much more for your health

22 Successful Strategies for Fall Planting

Bryan Reed shares some planting strategies so you can harvest food from your garden all winter long

24

Local Lore: Resurrecting Delta’s Egyptian Theater

In the 1920s, when the world was enthralled with all things Egyptian, this theater brought the magic and glamour of early Hollywood to moviegoers

26 Growing Up is Hard to Do

I love my parents and understand why they still treat me like a kid. I will soon be them, and hope my kids have enough patience to deal with me

30 Travel: See America’s Stonehenge and Other Earthen Marvels

If you think archaeology is a dull subject, these U.S. destinations are sure to change your mind

32

Our Top 10 Salsa Recipes & Showdown Winners!

35 All Aboard the MOD Express!

All Points Transit launches new route service between Montrose, Delta and Olathe with free fares in August

35 Your AI Reality Check

Truth: Artificial Intelligence will replace humans in numerous jobs... but it’s not as devastating as you’d think

40 My Long-Lost Cousin Scam

Don’t fall for this scam, no matter how official the letterhead looks!

44 MESA COUNTY

44 Calendar

46 Clubs

49 Question of the Month

50 Support Groups

52 MONTROSE & DELTA

52 Calendar

54 Clubs & Support Groups

57 Question of the Month

58 Fun & Games

60 Classifieds

Some like it hot

Iswear my husband Sam could live off of hot sauce and salsa. He denies it, but I’m pretty sure he had nachos for breakfast, lunch and dinner while I was out of town for three days this past month.

How do I know that? Because the ingredi ents I bought to replicate a few recipes for our Salsa Showdown were either running low or gone completely when I got back.

We eat salsa pretty regularly at my house, which is why I was excited about this spur-ofthe-moment contest for our readers. It started with a story we ran in the May issue about the health benefits of salsa. I also know a lot of you have vegetable gardens and have perfected some tasty recipes to showcase your summer bounty—and boy was I right! We received dozens of recipes for red and green salsas, fruit salsas, nutty salsas, salsas for canning, and more. I wish I could try them all.

tell you how many dishes he’s ruined for me because I just can’t take the heat—so I just use it as an excuse to stay out of the kitchen.

Sam’s fascination with heat goes beyond his collection of really hot sauces. He will challenge his tastebuds to see how much heat they can handle.

At his birthday party one year, he and some buddies each ate an entire ghost pepper (the ghost pepper ranks at the top end of the Scoville scale). What likely began as a show of “manliness” resulted in a bunch of young guys with tears streaming down their faces.

Dear friends at the BEACON: This is the third time I have found this overdue notice at the bottom of a pile of mail on my kitchen table and still the BEACON keeps coming. I apologize in getting this to you late but I do appreciate your reminders. I enjoy your publication, especially your Laughing Matters section. I sometimes copy it and send it on to a friend to brighten their day. Thank you so much for being a communication link for seniors. Keep up the good work!

- Patricia W.

Thank you for the great article on the Fruita Thrift Shop! It was fun doing it. You are the best!

- Kayren G.

Hello! We are moving to Fruita in a few weeks from Texas. We are 66 and 64 years young so we are learning all about seniors in the Grand Valley. We don’t know anybody except for two friends. Is there a welcoming group to welcome us to the area?

-

Shirley E.

I prefer my salsa on the chunky side, whereas Sam usually puts his in a blender. We don’t usually make fruit salsas, but I always love a refreshing mango salsa on tacos from a restaurant or at my sister’s house (my sister’s a good cook, plus her husband’s family is from Mexico so their salsa usually packs some heat)!

I like my salsa hot, but I’ve never been huge fan of hot sauce. I’ll add some Cholula to a bland dish, but Sam puts hot sauce on nearly everything! He’s amassed a collection of sauces that claim nearly an entire kitchen cabinet.

Another time, I watched as he consumed a burger with seven different really hot peppers as part of a timed challenge at a local restaurant. He barely fell short of completing the challenge, and at home later that night, he called the paramedics after some severe intestinal discomfort. The good news is that he was feeling better by the time they arrived and they didn’t have to drive him to the hospital.

Apparently chili peppers contain chemicals that triggers the body into thinking it’s in danger. In response, the body releases endorphins, which are pleasure causing hormones. This is the body’s way of trying to eliminate the “threat” it feels when you eat spicy food.

I’ll never understood why anyone would put their body through such torment, let alone my husband. Luckily, I think he’s learned his lesson.

Turn to page 32 to see our Salsa Showcase winners! ■

Cloie: Hi, Shirley! Welcome to the Grand Valley! Yes, there is a very active Newcomers Club here. There are also some very active seniors at the Fruita Senior Center (inside the Fruita Community Center). You can call them or email Kimberly Preisser, the senior center coordinator, to learn more!

Summer Salsa Showdown (See our contest winners on page 32-33) Thank you for creating such a fun challenge!

- Cary K.

I wonder how this challenge will go with yucky store-bought tomatoes. I just put my plants in the ground so they are a good two months from producing.

-

Arden B.

How fun is this! Please find attached my recipe for submittal to the Summer Salsa Showdown!

-

Tracy H.

WEST NILE DON’T LET

By April Fitzgerald

Whatdoes a dream retirement look like? For Len and Lorie Cribbs, it was a three-day golf tournament, a Jeep trip to Yankee Boy Basin and hiking in Cimarron all in one week. Such activities were among the reasons the couple decided to retire in Montrose from Cincinnati, Ohio. Unfortunately, that week in July 2022 was the last normal week they’ve had.

Within a few days, Len came down with flu-like symptoms. He was achy and tired.

“All I wanted to do was sleep,” said Len, 69.

The couple sought medical treatment right away.

“We had a tele-doc appointment, and they said it was probably COVID,” said Lorie, 62.

However, after about three days, Len’s symptoms worsened, topped off by a 104-degree fever.

Lorie loaded Len up in the car and took him to the ER. He was quickly admitted for “life-threatening conditions,” according to the hospital paperwork. COVID was the first suspect.

“It took a while for them to move on from that,” said Len.

The medical team conducted multiple tests. Finally, they did blood tests and a spinal tap, which revealed Len had spinal meningitis caused by West Nile Virus (WNV).

SYMPTOMS & LONG-TERM EFFECTS

WNV is common during mosquito season, which runs from summer to fall. It’s caused by the bite of an infected mosquito.

In Colorado, most human cases of West Nile virus are reported in August and September. Although only one out of 150 people are severely affected, adults over 60 are at higher risk.

“Len was one of our most severe cases,” said Montrose County Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Lisa Gallegos.

The days following Len’s diagnosis were a whirlwind.

“I barely knew what was going on the entire time,” Len shared. “I couldn’t walk by myself. Lorie had to help me. I basically slept the whole time.”

Len’s weakness and lack of awareness are symptoms of severe WNV. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention states that serious cases cause muscle weakness and disorientation, or a stupor. Other symptoms include fever, headaches, neck stiffness, coma, tremors, convulsions, vision loss, numbness and paralysis.

WITHIN A FEW DAYS, LEN CAME DOWN WITH FLULIKE SYMPTOMS.

HE

Once his medical team had a confirmed diagnosis, they treated Len with IV antiviral medications. After being hospitalized for four days, he was admitted to Colorow Care Center in Olathe for rehab.

At Colorow, Len recalls sleeping 18-20 hours a day. He also began occupational and physical therapy to help him walk independently again.

“My body was just so weak,” he said.

Perhaps even more frustrating than his physical limitations was

WAS ACHY AND TIRED. “THEY SAID IT WAS PROBABLY COVID,” LORIE SAID

carrying WNV by using effective insect repellent, wearing protective clothing that minimizes exposed skin (spray clothes with insect repellent for extra protection), or staying indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are active.

“Anytime you’re going to be outdoors, use mosquito spray with DEET,” Gallegos advised.

an ongoing mental fogginess. About two weeks after he contracted WNV, basic mental tasks proved difficult for him.

“Simple things like matching symbols—things that you would think a toddler could do—gave me a lot of issues because of brain fog,” said Len, who has a PhD in chemistry.

Finally, Len was released home, but his symptoms had not resolved. He continued to experience brain fog and fatigue, as well as vertigo.

It wasn’t until late fall that Len started to feel more like himself.

“I actually played a few rounds of golf in November and December, and we skied five days in January and February,” he said.

Although he was improving, Len began to worry that he would never regain his previous state of health.

“I felt as though I would probably have ongoing symptoms for the rest of my life,” he said.

In May, Len’s fears were realized when he came down with severe shortness of breath. Back at the hospital, he was diagnosed with asthma and prescribed continuous oxygen and other medications, which Len believes is related to WNV.

“Asthma is inflammation,” said Len. “I’ve never had lung issues in my life, and no family history.”

LOCAL CASES

Len’s experience with WNV has changed the way that he and Lorie plan their lives.

“We can’t plan long term anymore; it’s more day to day,” said Lorie. “[Len] was supposed to be in Alaska next week on a dream trip.”

Still Len and Lorie consider themselves fortunate. One of their neighbors who contracted WNV is experiencing ongoing paralysis.

“She was initially paralyzed from the neck down. Now it’s from the waist down,” Lorie said. “She’s in her early 60s, and she’s an active hiker like us.”

According to Gallegos, Montrose County had the highest number of positive cases of WNV in Colorado last year with 38.

“Twenty-seven of those went to the hospital and we had six deaths,” she reported.

According to Delta County Environmental Health Director Greg Rajnowski, the county had 18 positive cases and two deaths in 2022. Rajnowski’s 2022 report concluded that Mesa County had the lowest rate of WNV in the area with only four cases.

This summer, mosquitoes carrying WNV have been found near Cedaredge, but no human cases have yet been reported.

Officials with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) urge Coloradans to protect themselves from mosquitoes

Len and Lorie Cribbs of Montrose consider themselves fortunate despite Len’s frightening experience with West Nile Virus.

Additionally, Gallegos cautioned people to be aware of the risks of standing water, as mosquitoes can lay hundreds of eggs in as little as a quarter-inch. The CDC recommends all outdoor water receptacles—flowerpots, clogged gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys and puddles—should be emptied weekly, or treated with larvicide.

Len believes that an irrigation ditch about 60 yards from his home could have easily been the origination site of the mosquito that changed his life. However, he’s surprised he got bitten at all.

“Lorie could have a fog of mosquitoes around her, but they never bothered me,” said Len.

See a health care provider if you develop severe headaches or begin experiencing confusion.For questions about WNV, call your county health department: Montrose County 970-9642454, Mesa County 970-248-6900 and Delta County 970-874-2165. ■

Protect yourself from West Nile Virus by exercising the FOUR Rs.

REPEL mosquitoes using EPA-registered insect repellents containing one of the active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or para-menthane-diol (PME). Always follow label instructions. Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

REMOVE standing water from your home and yard to reduce mosquito breeding. Empty water from old tires, cans, flowerpots, rain gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys and puddles at least once every week.

REPAIR or replace damaged window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out.

REMIND your family, friends and neighbors about mosquito safety. Mosquitoes will fly more than a mile to feed.

IN COLORADO, MOST HUMAN CASES OF WEST NILE VIRUS ARE REPORTED IN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER. MONTROSE COUNTY HAD THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF POSITIVE CASES OF WNV IN COLORADO LAST YEAR WITH 38.

Photo by April Fitzgerald.

MONTROSE - DELTA

Volunteer of the Year

What age group makes up the majority of our community’s volunteers? Seniors!

That’s why the BEACON gives Montrose County & Delta County organizations the opportunity to recognize their outstanding senior volunteers on at Montrose-Delta BeaconFest on Thursday, September 14 at the Montrose Pavilion. All nominated volunteers will be honored at the stage, but only one can be named Volunteer of the Year—and we need your help!

Vote Online

Step 1: Go to BeaconSeniorNews.com/voteVOY

Step 2: Select your favorite volunteer and enter your name and email address

Step 3: Submit your vote!

Online voting closes on Friday, September 1 at 4 p.m. MST.

Mail-in ballot

Fill out the official ballot on the next page and mail it to:

BEACON Senior News PO Box 3895

Grand Junction, CO 81502

Ballots must be received by 4 p.m. September 1.

The ABCDE’s of skin cancer

Western Colorado offers an outdoor lover’s paradise, with attractions like the Colorado National Monument, beautiful rivers, and Mesa Lakes inviting visitors to bask in the sunshine. However, we must be conscious of the potential dangers of high-altitude sun exposure, including the persistent threat of skin cancer. Skin cancer affects 1 in 5 Americans, and it can manifest as pinkish patches, pearly bumps, red lumps, or disconcerting dark spots, emphasizing the importance of recognizing its various forms. Melanoma, though less common, is particularly dangerous and may appear within existing moles or as new spots. Prevention and early detection stand as our most powerful allies in the fight against skin cancer. We must ensure to conduct regular self-examinations, remaining watchful for changes in skin characteristics, strictly abiding by the instructive ABCDE rule: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter larger than 6mm, and evolving characteristics.

It is important to protect ourselves with broad-spectrum sunscreen to effectively defend against both harmful UVA and UVB rays. An SPF 15 sunscreen blocks about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 and SPF 50 blocks approximately 97% and 98%, respectively. These sunscreens, supplemented with hats, protective clothing, and finding respite in shade during peak sun hours, helps to minimize exposure.

To support the health of our community, General Surgeons of Western Colorado offers services through our Lump and Bump clinic. Designed to quickly address concerns about skin changes, our clinic offers expedient procedures for lump excision and biopsy. Reach out to us at (970) 243-0900 to schedule appointments, or for more information. We can usually schedule an appointment within a week of your call. As we bask in the Western Colorado summer, let’s remember that our safety should always be paramount. Together, we can foster a healthier, more informed community.

At General Surgeons of Western Colorado we’re fortunate to count Ari Andersen, FNP, among our dedicated team members. For over 20 years, Ari has been a reliable professional in the field of lump removal, always prioritizing patient care and satisfaction.

Montrose-Delta Nominees

All volunteers will be recognized at Montrose-Delta BeaconFest on Thursday, September 14

Maxine Behrman & Judy Fairchild

Nominated by City of Delta/Bill Heddles Recreation Center

Maxine and Judy have been essential in organizing, running and communicating events that happen with pickleball in Delta and the surrounding area. Because of their involvement, the number of pickleball players in the area has steadily increased over the last nine years. They both recognize the value of offering this sport to the community. Maxine can be found on the pickleball court most Tuesday mornings running round-robin play. Judy offers lessons to new players on Thursdays. All of their time is volunteered to help the City of Delta sports program. The social interaction and physical activity that pickleball provides is a benefit to the participants and leads to a healthier community. We appreciate their dedication and commitment!

Colie Bowerman

Nominated by Museum of the Mountain West

Colie Bowerman has been an outstanding volunteer docent at the Museum of the Mountain West. He is always willing to help and is exceptionally great with the guests and students that come to the museum. He comes in character and enhances the quality of the experience for each of our guests.

Kris Valentino

Nominated by Roice-Hurst Humane Society

After moving to Delta in 2021, Kris Valentino was looking for a rewarding volunteer experience and began volunteering at Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s Delta satellite facility. Since November 2021, Kris has contributed hundreds of hours to caring for shelter pets and improving our grounds. She is just as willing to do yard work, clean a kennel or sort a shed as she is playing with a goofy pup. Kris is a constant helpful presence at our small but mighty Delta facility, and we feel incredibly grateful to have her! ■

Vote for Montrose-Delta Volunteer of the Year!

How to Vote

1 Read about each volunteer’s qualifications

2 Select your favorite volunteer

Maxine Behrman & Judy Fairchild

Colie Bowerman

Kris Valentino

3 Cast your vote online at: BeaconSeniorNews.com

Or mail this official ballot to:

BEACON Senior News PO Box 3895

Grand Junction, CO 81502

The last day to vote is Friday, Sept. 1, 2023 Online voting closes at 4 p.m. Mail-in ballots must be received by 4 p.m.

All nominees are invited to a special ceremony at Montrose-Delta BeaconFest at 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 14 at the Montrose Pavilion.

Questions? Contact us at 970-243-8829, or email Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Enjoy the area’s largest boomer and senior fair! FREE admission, entertainment, seminars,

Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Montrose Pavilion

With a litter luck

Skip these litters—your cat doesn’t like them anyway

By Sara Ferguson

While your cat’s litter and box choices obviously affect your lifestyle, imagine how important it is in his life, where inside cats are forced to go where we tell them.

Despite all the different cat litters available on the market, research confirms what most cat guardians know (or have learned the hard way): cats prefer sandlike litter. Pellets and other shapes are not what cats are drawn to.

AN EASIER SCOOP

Research also tells us that cats don’t like scented litters. Just like air fresheners and scented sprays, their ingredients have not been proven safe for humans, let alone animals. Additionally, cats rely on their sense of smell to negotiate the world and these strong odors corrupt that instinctual process.

The best way to prevent litterbox odors is simple: scoop the box every day. No matter the ingredient, you can find clumping and scoopable litter with most brands. Non-clumping litter is dustier, so you and your cat would both breathe in more particles than you would with the clumping variety.

Clay is one of the cheaper ingredients in cat litter. It’s obtained by mining, however, so it is less sustainable than litter made from wheat or corn, or recycled paper or wood. It is also much heavier, which can be a concern for older cat guardians.

Most renewable litters have sand-like textures, so they meet the needs of most cats. They are also usually less dusty than their clay counterparts, both during digging and in tracking. They also have more natural additives for clumping.

Another advantage to plantbased litter is that many are flushable. This makes disposal much easier, especially for seniors.

MAKING THE TRANSITION

If you decide to try a different litter for your cat, he will always appreciate choices. Never move suddenly from one litter to another, or you could force him to go outside the box. (This advice holds for switching litter boxes too.) Offer the new litter in another familiar box to give him time to adjust.

Once he uses the new litter, even if occasionally, you probably have his permission to transition. Add the new litter to the old at no more than 25% a day. This will give him time to get used to the new litter.

Monitor him daily. If it seems like he’s not using the box like he did before, go back to using the old litter. Just like us, cats have preferences. That’s his only way of telling you he doesn’t like yours.

Your job, as always, is to find the place where his preferences overlap with yours. Buy the best litter that he likes and you can afford. If you get it wrong, you may cause him litterbox issues that can take time to solve and put him at risk for being surrendered. We want to keep your cat home and happy! ■

It’s not funny anymore

Dear Laird: My husband was a professional comedian on the club circuit. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s pretty early at 63. He is now in the middle stage and is losing it quickly. The problem is that his recall of his show business days is still quite good, and he recites his routines to me or anyone within earshot. We are losing friends because of this and I am left with nonstop 20-year-old jokes and a difficult caregiving job. Can you tell me anything that might help me deal with this? Signed, Marie

Dear Marie: Social isolation is a significant problem for caregivers for many reasons. Sometimes it’s because people don’t know what to say, we are exhausted or the loved one we’re caring for is difficult to control. Not in your case, but often people with dementia worry they will say the wrong thing. For each of these reasons, staying in the house seems safer. Repetitive behaviors are common in middle-stage brain failure. As short-term memory fades, our loved ones cannot remember new information, so they repeat questions like “What time is it?” and “Is it time to go yet?” Or they repeat other familiar things like events from the past.

Distractions may be helpful, so try changing the subject. Offer him a favorite snack or turn on the TV. It might work to put something in his hands and ask for help with it. You might try ignoring him and seeing if he realizes you are not interested. You can even leave the room. Do not try to squelch the behavior—it probably can’t be done and will frustrate you both. It’s not him that is misbehaving socially. It’s him trying to interact the only way the disease will let him. Think of entering his world. Being a comedian is still a part of who he is. See if playing along with laughter quenches his need for attention and approval. He doesn’t know you have heard the jokes

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

BY LAIRD LANDON, PhD

BEING A COMEDIAN IS STILL A PART OF WHO HE IS. SEE IF PLAYING ALONG WITH LAUGHTER QUENCHES HIS NEED FOR ATTENTION AND APPROVAL.

before.

It might help to tell your friends about new behaviors. Find the ones who are sympathetic and want to help. Invite a few friends at a time to visit and let them know what to expect. They will be on your team and not respond as offended guests. He will have an audience, which is a concept he can grasp from his past.

In a public space, manufacture a reason to move. Walking to a new place may interrupt the comic routine. If you’re going out to dinner, you might call ahead and ask for an out-of-the-way table because of his dementia.

While repetitive behavior is disconcerting now, in six months it will probably decline. People with dementia, at some point, lose interest in others. They will remember who you are, but only care about what you can do for them. This is no fun either, but please understand the disease continues to change their behavior and even who they are. T

The Cottages let you live independently while giving you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. Our single-level patio homes offer privacy and luxury with open living plans, two bedrooms, two baths, vaulted ceilings, contemporary kitchens, gas fireplace, covered patio, and a one-car garage. Enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with paid utilities, bi-weekly housekeeping, snow removal, lawn maintenance, and flexible meal options at our Commons or Fountains dining rooms. Plus you and your loved ones get peace of mind with a 24-hour emergency response system.

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

When you choose Hilltop Senior Living Communities, your money stays right here in our community, supporting a nonprofit that has provided Western Colorado with compassionate and comprehensive human services for over 70 years.

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By Don Funke

Remember when you could open any fitness magazine and do any of the workouts? Not so much anymore, right? As we get older, suddenly those old workouts are no longer appropriate.

Regular exercise is a cornerstone of healthy aging. Workout routines tailored to seniors are crucial for maximizing the benefits and minimizing risks such as falling.

With thoughtfully designed workouts that focus on the unique goals of older adults, we can enhance our physical function, improve overall well-being and boost athletic performance.

SPECIFICITY

This training principle states the adaptation of the body is specific to the type of stress imposed upon it.

In the context of senior fitness, this underscores the importance of tailoring exercises to match the physiological, cognitive and functional characteristics of older adults. Exercises that mimic real-life movements and target specific muscle groups can help improve overall fitness, mobility and agility.

MUSCULOSKELETAL HEALTH

Over time, our bodies experience

age-related changes such as decreased muscle mass (sarcopenia), bone density (osteoporosis) and joint flexibility. By incorporating resistance training into our workout routines that are specific to the affected muscle groups and joint movements, we can minimize these age-related declines. For example, exercises that target the lower body, such as squats or lunges, improve leg strength and balance and reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS

Cardiovascular health is vital for maintaining energy levels, promoting cardiovascular efficiency and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. We should engage in aerobic exercises that are appropriate for our fitness levels and take into account any pre-existing conditions. For instance, stationary bikes or ski machines can ensure we experience the cardiovascular benefits without compromising safety.

BALANCE AND COORDINATION

Falls are a significant concern among seniors, as they can lead to severe injuries and a loss of independence. Specific exercises that focus on balance, coordination and propriocep -

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tion can greatly reduce the risk of falls. Agility exercises can also help improve stability and body awareness and promote better posture.

Some active seniors can perform fairly challenging agility drills and some will need to start with more basic exercises. Start with walking in a figure eight. Then step sideways in a shuffle-step pattern. Once you feel proficient in sidesteps, add some crossovers, where one foot crosses over the front of the other. From there, you could progress to “karaoke steps”—sidestepping one foot in front of the other foot and one step behind. The idea is to create a simple movement pattern and practice until it almost looks like dancing.

COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Physical exercise has been shown to have positive effects on cognitive function in seniors. Specific exercises that require focus, decision-making and motor coordination, such as

dance classes or interactive games, can improve our cognitive skills, memory and overall brain health.

PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Regular exercise can have a profound impact on mental health, reducing the risk of depression, anxiety and stress. Workouts that incorporate social interaction and enjoyable exercises boost our moods, self-esteem and overall well-being. This specificity in workout design helps create a positive and motivating exercise environment for seniors.

All of these factors are crucial for healthy aging, maintaining our independence and ensuring we enjoy a fulfilling and active life well into our golden years.

Don Funke is a certified personal trainer and chiropractor in the FlexRec gym in the Colorado Outdoors Complex in Montrose. ■

•

•

WEST NILE VIRUS

7 ways lemon juice improves your health

Many people enjoy a squeeze of lemon in their water. It’s refreshing and provides 1-2 mg of vitamin C. But lemon juice can do so much more for you and your health. It’s a natural and versatile ingredient that can be used in numerous ways to help you feel better:

1. Boosts immune system. Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C, which helps stimulate the production of more white blood cells to help you fight off infections and disease.

2. Aids digestion. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which helps stimulate the production of more digestive juices in your stomach. This can mitigate indigestion, bloating and other digestive issues, which in turn, will improve hydration and energy.

3. Hydrates the body. Lemon juice is a natural diuretic, which means that it helps increase urine production and flush out toxins from the body.

4. Helps alkalize the body. Lemon juice is thought to help prevent the development of acid reflux, heartburn and other digestive problems by alkalizing the body. However, lemon is sometimes a trigger for people with esophagitis and heartburn.

5. Supports weight loss. Lemon juice contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help reduce appetite and

DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN

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

promote feelings of fullness. It can also help improve metabolism and increase fat burning, making it an effective aid for weight loss. This will directly improve energy.

6. Improves heart health. Lemon juice is a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, reduces the risk of stroke and improves energy.

7. Boosts energy. Lemon juice has a direct effect on energy levels. It supplies your body with a natural source of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium and magnesium. These electrolytes can help replenish energy levels and prevent fatigue.

By incorporating lemon juice into your diet and daily routine, you can enjoy its many benefits and improve your overall health. Its many uses also go far beyond the scope of your health. It can also be used as a natural household cleaner, skin brightener and insect repellent. ■

Don’t be left hanging on Left Handers Day

By Nancy J. Schaaf, RN

Whatdo Tom Cruise, Julius Caesar, Barack Obama, Leonardo da Vinci and Jack the Ripper have in common? They are all “southpaws,” a term used to describe left-handed people, especially baseball players.

While neither Mark Twain or Albert Einstein are known for playing baseball, they join all-star slugger Babe Ruth as some of history’s most notable “lefties.”

Dean R. Campbell, the founder of Lefthanders International, Inc., first celebrated Left Handers Day in 1976 to honor the achievements of lefties everywhere and raise awareness of the everyday issues they face.

That’s because the world is made for the right-handed. Why? Because only 9.2% of the world’s population— approximately 708 million people—are left-handed.

Many years ago, people thought that being left-handed was a curse. Many lefties were forced, against their natural inclination, to write with their right hand. They’ve been discriminated against and looked at with suspicion, as evidenced in the language used to describe lefties. The etymology of the word “sinister” traces back to the Latin word for “left,” and “right” in English means “correct.”

Many of us right-handers take simple things for granted, such as buttoning a shirt, wearing an oven mitt, ironing or using a computer mouse. Companies and manufacturers often disregard this minority group by making items that are designed for use by right-handed people, from school desks to a pair of scissors.

The factors that determine a person’s dominant hand remain a mystery. Some theorize that certain genetic factors predispose a child to favor the right hand, although a direct genetic link has not been proven, as two right-handed parents can have a left-handed child.

Based on recent studies, researchers think it’s more likely that lots of different genes combine to produce a left-handed person. In 2019, scientists in the Netherlands conducted the most extensive study on the genetics of left-handedness and found that a small number of genes played a role in leftie development.

Additionally, more boys than girls are left-handed, which leads some researchers to believe that testosterone may have some influence.

While the reasons for left-handedness remain largely a mystery, neuroscientists continue research to understand this fascinating phenomenon.

It’s believed that left handers tend to be more successful at sports than right handers. Think Barry Bonds, Phil Mickelson, Deion Sanders, Martina Navratilova, Bill Russell, Marvin Hagler and Wayne Gretzky. It’s known as the southpaw advantage.

This is especially true for interactive ball sports and combat sports, where a leftie’s actions are more surprising to their opponents.

So if you’re left-handed, grab your left-handed cup and make a toast to all left-handers everywhere on August 13.

And if you have a friend or family member who’s a leftie, you can find appropriate gifts designed especially for them at Lefty’s, the Left Hand Store: LeftysLeftHanded.com. ■

A DAY AT THE FARM

Submitted by Anonymous

A boy about 9 opens the door. “Is your dad or mom home?” asks the farmer.

“No, they went to town.”

“How about your brother, Howard? Is he here?”

“No, he went with Mom and Dad.”

The farmer stands there for a few minutes, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, mumbling to himself.

The boy finally says, “I know where all the tools are if you want to borrow one. If that’s not why you’re here, I can give Mom or Dad a message.”

“Well,” The farmer says looking extremely uncomfortable. “I need to talk to your Dad about your brother, Howard, getting my daughter, Suzy, pregnant.”

The boy tilts his head to the side and thinks about that for a moment.

“You will have to talk to my dad about that,” the boy responds. “I know he charges $50 for our bulls to service other folks’ cows and he charges $15 for our boars to service other folks’ sows. I have no idea how much he charges for Howard.”

DECORATING WITH DOGS

Submitted by Camille Jimenez Decorating when you have dogs can provide unique opportunities to express your own personal style and taste. Here are some ideas:

Bare floors, without carpet or throw rugs, can give a nice open feeling to a room. It can provide a soothing balance when you have many art objects that reflect your love of animals.

Paw prints and nose smudges on glass doors and windows break up glare and soften the light in a room.

Dog crates, when stacked three high, can add height to a room and pull the eye up. If fastened securely to the wall, the top can provide a safe and dramatic place for exotic plants or statuary that otherwise might be molested by your pets. A light can make it a real focal point. Cats love to inhabit the upper crates, leaving the lower ones for the dogs.

Old towels and blankets thrown casually on upholstered furniture can add a wonderful homey, country quilt look to an otherwise bland room.

Common smooth upholstery fabrics can look almost velvety when lightly textured with dog hair.

Vari-kennels, placed end to end and topped with plate glass, can create an unusual coffee table one of your friends will remember.

Doggie beds, randomly placed around a room, can add color and texture, much as throw pillows do.

Shredded or chewed books and magazines send a message to

guests that they are free to relax and feel at home.

Dog crates can make versatile end tables, and can be slip-covered to match any room decor.

There is absolutely nothing that makes a guest feel as welcome as three friendly dogs hopping in his lap as soon as he sits down.

UGLY BABY

Submitted by Della Leonard

A woman gets on a bus with her baby. The bus driver says: “Ugh, that’s the ugliest baby I’ve ever seen!”

The woman walks to the rear of the bus and sits down, fuming. She says to a man next to her: “The driver just insulted me!”

The man says, “You go up there and tell him off. Go on, I’ll hold your monkey for you.”

THE ECONOMY IS BAD WHEN...

Submitted by Gilbert Henry CEOs are now playing miniature golf.

You get a pre-declined credit card

Hot Wheels and Match Box car companies are now trading higher than GM and Ford on the stock market.

The president meets with small businesses like GE, Pfizer, Chrysler, Citigroup and GM to discuss bailouts.

McDonalds is now selling the 1/4 ouncer.

People in Beverly Hills have fired their nannies and are now learning their children’s names.

The most highly paid job is now jury duty.

People in Africa are donating money to Americans.

Motel 6 won’t leave the lights on. If the bank returns your check marked as “insufficient funds,” you have to call them and ask if they meant you or them.

THE PIG FARMER

Submitted by Anna Ramos

A farmer had five female pigs and was determined to take them to the county fair and sell.

While at the fair, he met another farmer who owned five male pigs. After talking a bit, they decided to mate the pigs and split everything 50/50. The farmers lived 50 miles away from one another and so they agreed to drive 30 miles and find a field in which to mate their pigs.

The first morning, the farmer with the female pigs got up at 5 a.m., loaded the pigs into the family station wagon, which was the only vehicle they had, and drove the 30 miles.

While the pigs were mating, he asked the other farmer, “How will I know if they are pregnant?”

The other farmer replied, “If they’re in the grass grazing in the morning, then they’re pregnant. If they’re in the mud, then they’re not.”

The next morning they were rolling in the mud, so he hosed them off, loaded them again into the family station wagon and proceeded to try again.

The following morning, mud again!

This continued all week until one morning the farmer was so tired that he couldn’t get out of bed. He called to his wife, “Honey, please look outside and tell me if the pigs are in the mud or in the field.”

“Neither,” yelled his wife, “they’re in the station wagon and one of them is honking the horn!”

ONE LINERS

Submitted by Janie Stewart

Why did the taxi driver get fired? Passengers didn’t like it when she went the extra mile.

Want to hear a roof joke? The first one’s on the house.

What do you call a religious person who sleepwalks? A roamin’ Catholic.

Is this pool safe for diving? It deep ends.

Which rock group has four guys who can’t sing or play instruments? Mount Rushmore.

I couldn’t believe that the highway department called my dad a thief. But when I got home, all the signs were there.

What do you call a parade of rabbits hopping backwards? A receding hare-line.

Why aren’t koalas actual bears? The don’t meet the koalafications.

What does a storm cloud wear under his raincoat? Thunderwear. What’s the best way to plan a party in space? You planet.

What’s a zebra? A few sizes bigger than an A.

I don’t like shopping centers. Once you’ve seen one, you’ve seen the mall. ■

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From helping you find a doctor to assisting with unexpected barriers, Humana goes above and beyond to help you get the healthcare you need. That’s called human care.

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, marital status or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文

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Y0040_GHHJWWVEN22_AD_M

Concerts

2023-2024 Concert

The living library of folk

Folk Legacy Trio performs the great American folk songs you love

Folk Legacy Trio

September 20 • 7:30 p.m.

By Jan Weeks

Timeto unearth the bellbottoms and love beads and head for the Avalon Theatre to travel back to the era when The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters, Judy Collins and Bob Dylan ruled the airwaves and record racks.

The Folk Legacy Trio will be performing as the first act of the 2023-2024 Community Concerts of the Grand Valley concert series. The group has been hailed as “the living library” of music of the great folk era, delivering songs from the 1950s to the 1970s first performed by groups such as The Weavers, Peter Paul & Mary and Joan Baez, and others who popularized pieces written centuries before, as well as original songs.

George Grove, Rick Dougherty and Jerry Siggins blend stories, history and humor into a show that takes you back to a simpler time. Grove picked banjo in the background at the Grand Ole Opry before transitioning into a 41-year career as banjoist extraordinaire with The Kingston Trio. Dougherty has written dozens of songs, arranged music for vocal groups and

GEORGE GROVE, RICK DOUGHERTY AND JERRY SIGGINS BLEND STORIES, HISTORY AND HUMOR INTO A SHOW THAT TAKES YOU BACK

TO A SIMPLER

TIME.

even directed opera. He replaced Glenn Yarbrough in The Limeliters, staying with them for 14 years, and then moved to The Kingston Trio for 12 years. Siggins was lead singer for the legendary doo-wop group, The Diamonds.

“When Rick and I left The Kingston Trio in 2017, our plan was to expand our repertoire from just those songs of The Kingston Trio to all of the wonderful music of the folk era,” said Grove.

The two needed another voice and spent six months auditioning a few people who could blend into the sound they wanted. Then Siggins showed up.

“When we heard his voice, soft and soothing when necessary and powerful on demand, it perfectly melded Rick’s Irish tenor to my baritone,” said Grove.

In the process of choosing and

arranging their repertoire, the three discovered a deep personal friendship, which is evident as they bring the beloved songs of the Great American Folksong Book to the stage.

Of course, each man has his favorite song that tells a story, has a memorable melody and encourages the audience to sing along. Yet if pressed to choose a favorite of all three, Grove said it might be “Circle” by Harry Chapin because the lyrics describe how people evolve as they live, and it also describes the Folk Legacy Trio’s member journey through their musical careers.

In earlier times, the three shared the stage with a panoply of folk legends, including Tom Paxton, Judy Collins, Barry McGuire, The New Christy Minstrels, The Brothers Four, The Chad Mitchell Trio, The Mamas & The Papas, The Association, John Sebastian and Pete Seeger. They trav-

eled, shared meals and wrote songs with those musical icons, and bring those memories to life on stage.

Now in their mid-70s, Grove said, “We happily admit our ages since we are old enough to have shared the stage with almost all of the artists whose talents and songs we embrace, yet we remain strong enough to endure the rigors of touring and performing.”

The Grand Junction concert is the first of 23 for the group, most of which will be on successive days and hundreds of miles apart. The demands of travel may be what sends the trio into retirement: driving four to eight hours, then doing a sound check followed by a concert takes a lot of work to make the performances seem effortless, yet the Folk Legacy Trio manages to do just that.

Both Grove and Dougherty play piano, though not in the show, and Grove has an undergraduate degree in piano and trumpet.

“There’s hardly any demand for folk trumpet!” said Grove.

Join in the nostalgia at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 20, in the Avalon Theatre, 645 Main St. in Grand Junction. Season tickets come with reserved seating. The theater has elevator service, handicapped seating, a drop-off area in front of the theaters, plus downtown dining. Doors open one hour before the show. ■

see them all! 6 concerts only $80*

Folk Legacy Trio

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

7:30 pm

Phat Cat Swingers

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

7:30 pm

Sounds of Silence Tribute

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

7:30 pm

The Suits

Thursday, March 14, 2024 7:30 pm

Abbacadabra

Thursday, April 4, 2024

7:30 pm

7000 Miles of Broadway

Thursday, May 9, 2024

7:30 p.m.

Reserved seating for Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s 79th season can be purchased at the Avalon Theatre Box Office from 12-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets can also be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling the Avalon Box Office at 970-263-5757

*Box office fees apply.

If performances aren’t sold out, individual tickets can be purchased for $35* three weeks before the concert at Ticketmaster.com. Please note that due to security concerns, the Avalon has a “clear bag” policy. See AvalonTheatreGJ.com/house-rules for more information.

WIN TICKETS FROM THE BEACON!

Send in your answer by Friday, August 18 to be entered into a drawing for two tickets to see The Folk Legacy Trio perform live at the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction.

Finish these lyrics to a famous folk song written by Pete Seeger and made famous by Joan Baez:

Oh, deep in my heart I do believe that…

Name:

Phone:

Email:

Email your answer to: Contact@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Or mail this entry form to: BEACON Senior News PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

We also install electronic running boards, automatic door/trunk openers, removable lifts and transfer seats, making your current vehicle more accessible and user friendly.

Successful strategies for fall planting

Asharvest hits full stride, now is the time to get your fall and winter gardens going. In our climate, we should be pulling food out of our gardens at least until Christmas. I’ve harvested winter greens and roots all winter long with the help of some season extension devices.

As the days shorten and temperatures cool, many crops that bolt in the summer heat can be planted now. Spinach, cilantro, lettuces, arugula, Asian greens and peas are great crops to plant from seed. It’s often easy to pick a space where beans or root crops used to be and plant fall crops there.

Broccoli and cauliflower are fall crops that can thrive in cooler temperatures, but they need space to grow and head out when they mature. When it’s warm, take advantage of the shade from established crops and plant seeds in between those plants. Kale, chard and mustard appreciate how the shading tomatoes and peppers keep the soil moist, which helps them germinate even when it’s still hot and dry.

When frost comes in October, the summer crops die back and the cold-tolerant fall crops gain all the available sunlight they need to thrive well into December. Short-season root crops like radishes, green onions and baby turnips (hakurei) are also great candidates for a fall harvest when conveniently planted in between existing summer crops.

FALL COVER CROPS

In large acreages, we plant winter wheat, barley and rye, then freeze back the tops, which lay down to insulate the soil and protect the roots from subfreezing temperatures and then grow back in early spring for a late spring harvest.

Obviously, there’s economic gain from producing crops on soil that’s being paid for all year long. Just as important are the improvements in soil health from the living roots in the ground that feed soil microbes, earthworms and decomposer insects.

Fall cover crops in the garden also protect the soil from wind and water erosion while creating a natural snow catchment system to keep moisture in your garden.

For homeowners, annual crops like buckwheat, oats, radishes, peas, mustards and beans can be planted now and still aid in cycling nutrients in the soil, fixing nitrogen and setting roots, which become organic matter and thus subsoil food for next year’s crops.

Greencover Seeds offers a variety of crops that make wonderful fall cover crops, many of which can mature and be eaten before October. Learn more at green coverseed.com. Western Slope residents can contact Philip Frank at philipfrnk@gmail.com.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

When planning out your winter garden, the first thing to consider is the timing of planting crops. Daylight hours peaked on June 21. On August 20, we hit 13.5 hours of daylight and then we’re on our way to 12 hours on September 26.

Seed packets list the days to maturity based on spring daylight heading into summer. Because we

lose hours in the fall and winter, it extends the days to maturity by 25-50%.

This means that arugula planted in May can be harvested in 45 days, a September 5 planting can take 55 days and an October 5 planting can take 75 days because of fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures.

So in August we need to plant crops so that they are of good size with deep roots to withstand our fall conditions. Beets and shortseason carrots must be planted soon in order for them to mature properly. Waiting until September is too late for them to thrive.

WEATHER PROTECTION

Another part of the strategy is providing some level of protection from cold winds and overnight temperatures. This can be as simple as putting bed sheets over tomato cages and setting them on the corners of the garden each night. I like to place straw bales around the edges and lay a sliding glass door on top as a mini greenhouse.

The fall crops I mentioned at the

BY BRYAN REED

beginning of this article can take a hard frost. A thick blanket can provide 5-10 degrees of protection so overnight lows of 18-20 degrees can be tolerated. Wire hoops can be placed over the winter crops and 6 mil plastic (or thicker) can provide protection from the cold and can capture daytime sun to warm the soil.

Planted turnips, carrots, beets and rutabagas can mature enough so that when their tops get frozen back, they can still be mulched with dry leaves and covered with an anchored tarp so they stay protected from deep freezes. Every couple weeks, pull back the tarp, rake back the leaves and harvest a couple pounds for the refrigerator.

PLANTING DATES

Optimal planting dates are August 10-24 and September 6-20. For a successful winter garden, one strategy is to plant seeds around August 10, then a second planting by the 24 and a third planting around September 6. This will ensure strong plants before real winter weather sets in. ■

Resurrecting the Egyptian

By Arlyn Macdonald

WhenDelta’s Egyptian Theater opened on October 1, 1928, no one knew it would one day become a national treasure.

During a time when the world was enthralled with all things Egyptian, (Howard Carter discovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun six years earlier) the theater brought the magic and glamour of early Hollywood to moviegoers.

Exciting plans are in store for the theater, located at 452 Main St., as it nears its centennial. The Delta Egyptian Theater Corporation, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit, recently purchased the theater and plans to make it a downtown entertainment showpiece and attraction for the Western Slope.

the Delta community and the movie industry in general, I wanted to make sure nothing happened to it. I also want to make sure the theater’s great legacy will continue for the next generations,” said Anderson.

OPENING NIGHT

In 1928, Delta’s 3,000 residents looked forward to the opening night of the new 725-seat movie theater. Movie theater chain moguls, Denver-based Dickson and Ricketson, decided to build the theater because of the economic boom happening in Delta. The Holly Sugar Company sugar mill and the Delta County Cannery had just opened and a new luxury movie house on Main Street was sure to draw audiences.

Building the two-story theater cost $75,000. The outside of the building was conceived by architect Montana S. Fallis, who capitalized on the world’s fascination with Ancient Egypt by fashioning it in the Egyptian-revival style.

Kelly Anderson, president of the nonprofit, and executive director of the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra, holds his vision for the project.

“I saw the for sale sign, and the more I found out about the history and importance of the theater to

The building’s interior, designed by Joe Scheffler, had pointed arches, vaulted ceilings and floor-toceiling columns, with lighting from wall sconces above Egyptian busts, colorfully painted murals with hieroglyphics and a vibrant stage curtain resplendent with Egyptian figures.

On opening night, the movie was Paramount Studios’ “The Fleet’s In,”

“I WANT TO MAKE SURE THE THEATER’S GREAT LEGACY WILL CONTINUE FOR THE NEXT GENERATIONS.”

starring Clara Bow, James Hall and Jack Oakie. Music for the silent film was played on the theater’s $12,000 Robert Morgan organ.

THE GREAT DEPRESSION

The Egyptian sold to Fox Intermountain Theaters in 1929. By 1933, one-third of U.S. movie theaters had either closed or sold.

But when the Depression hit, Fox’s general manager, Charles Yeager, came up with an idea to keep the theater afloat. Delta historian Jim Wetzel explained that’s how the lottery game Bank Night originated.

The game, which Wetzel said started with the Delta theater on March 2, 1933, drew moviegoers to the theater every week, many hoping to be the winner of the weekly prize drawing. Moviegoers would buy a theater ticket for 25 cents, and people could get an extra entry for each 25-cent purchase from Delta merchants.

Struggling theaters across the country followed suit, and soon they were filled to capacity. When the standing room was full, people would stand in the street awaiting the drawing.

Eventually, the excitement wore off, plus Bank Night was under scrutiny for circumventing lottery and gambling laws.

With the economy steadily improving, the theater hosted stage shows in addition to movies.

“Many Hollywood actors and actresses visited here,” Wetzel added.

RENOVATIONS BEGIN

The Delta Egyptian survived the Depression, but Fox closed it in 1959

and put the building up for sale. But interest in the theater continued and it reopened a year later.

However, by then the theater had fallen into disrepair.

Renovations began, and in 1968, the theater looked entirely different. More renovations occurred in the 1970s when the balconies were closed and a snack bar and ticket booth were added. Outside, a neon sign and marquee replaced the old projecting marquee.

In 1993, the theater was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a new restoration project began with a $220,000 grant from the Colorado State Historical Fund. Restoration experts Conrad Schmitt Studios of Wisconsin stabilized the foundation and roof, repainted the walls to their original Egyptian Revival colors, and uncovered the original artwork that had been wallpapered over.

The restoration’s completion was celebrated along with the theater’s 69th anniversary on October 1, 1997, with a 1920s-themed gala and a screening of the 1927 silent film, “The King of Kings.” A Bank Night drawing was also held during intermission.

The theater was renovated again in 2009 so it could screen 3D films.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

Anderson said the theater is one of only six remaining Egyptian revival-themed theaters in the U.S.

“In the 1920s and ’30s, there were over a hundred,” he added.

More renovations are underway to transform the theater into a community arts and culture hub.

“The people of Delta love this

theater and share generations of great memories,” said Anderson.

“The theater has amazing acoustics for live music. Once the stage is renovated, we can offer movies and a venue for all the performing arts.”

Plans include constructing a new support building on the adjacent lot with a new theater entrance and lobby. The third phase contains plans for a restaurant, art gallery and a green space to host outdoor performances.

The Delta Egyptian Theater Corporation plans to have the renovations completed by 2028, in time for the theater’s 100th anniversary.

Since January, the theater has been showing weekly movies and hosting concerts, including an opera night, comedian, cowboy poetry, the Banff Film Festival and a documentary film night.

“We’ve already had 40 events this year with over 3,000 patrons in attendance,” said Anderson. “We currently have seven part-time employees and many wonderful volunteers.”

If you’re interested in volunteering, donating to the theater or sponsoring an event, email egyptian theater@gmail.com, or sign up for emails at DeltaEgyptian.org. ■

Customers exiting the Egyptian, circa 1952, and a long line of patrons waiting to get in. Photo credit: Delta County Historical Museum.

Experienced Senior Care for total

of mind

Growing up is hard to do

By Lisa Lickel

My dad popped in to visit this morning and saw me on the kitchen floor with the vacuum cleaner torn apart and parts spread across the floor. The motor casing rested in my lap while I cleaned everything out with a fine brush and a hand-held suction hose from an older model.

I was reseating the motor in the plastic housing and having to twist it a bit to get it lined up with the screw holes when he told me I had better take it to a dealer because I could start a fire.

I will be 60 this year, but I will always be Daddy’s little girl—seen and rarely heard. I have accepted this and generally ignore his comments. Even my husband has stopped getting tetchy when he receives his well-meaning advice, though we admit it got easier after his own father passed away.

When I was 50 and staying with my parents for a few days to help out after Mom’s surgery, she still directed my cooking. She sent Dad into the kitchen to help me.

He stopped in his tracks and looked at me when I held up my hand and gave him the eye—you know, the non-verbal gaze that warned him against saying anything.

“I have raised your grandchildren pretty well,” I reminded him. “They survived. I have been married and managing my own house longer than I lived with you and I can handle making a meal.”

I love my parents and I understand why they do this. I also understand it’s not what all adult children go through.

Maybe I shouldn’t have tried to make them feel better when they moved to a town I knew well but they didn’t and asked them for directions. Maybe I shouldn’t have called to occasionally ask for recipes or instructions on specific dishes which reinforced Mom’s

belief I didn’t know how to make food. Maybe I shouldn’t have tried to remind them I loved and needed them by asking for advice or help once in a while as an adult. I don’t know everything, and I never will.

I still want to soak up every story, every bit of memory and all of their knowledge, and I know I don’t have that much time left to spend with them. They will always be concerned about my welfare, and I’m blessed to still have them in my life.

But their excessive disbelief in my ability to do much beyond feed the birds, write books and do anything on a computer makes me think about how I raised my kids— how I stand in wonder when they build things, cook exotic recipes, drive fearlessly across the country, take new jobs in amazing places and raise above-average children. I hope I haven’t hindered them or told them they couldn’t do too many things. I hope I taught them to love learning, to ask for directions when they need them and not to be afraid of things they don’t understand or can’t control.

I can use a hammer and a screwdriver. My dad taught me that.

I can fish and shoot a gun, too, but these days I leave hunting-gathering to others.

I’m not mechanically inclined like he is, and I get nervous speaking in crowds, like my mom.

Maybe it’s that they simply recognize that I inherited traits they wish they could take back and they’ll forever attempt to “fix” the problem.

I LOVE MY PARENTS AND I UNDERSTAND WHY THEY DO THIS. I WILL SOON BE THEM, AND HOPE MY KIDS HAVE ENOUGH PATIENCE TO DEAL WITH ME.

I’ve inherited good things, too, which are often overlooked in the big picture: I love learning and puzzles, being engaged in my community and standing up for my beliefs. My inability to follow a recipe is my form of rebellion.

Anyway, I guess I won’t let my dad know I finished putting together the porch glider after someone else gave up, or get annoyed the next time Mom asks me how to get the messages from the phone, or read a text message, or reboot their e-readers and get back to the

home page. We won’t even bring up cable TV or what happens if you push too many buttons on the remote. I will soon be them, and hope my kids have enough patience to deal with me.

Oh, yeah, the vacuum works fine since I got it all back together. Did I mention that my parents had given the machine to me when they downsized? And, no fires! So far. If there happens to be a fire sometime, I have a fire extinguisher and I’ve read the directions on how to use it. ■

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A song of thanks

John Winn leaves a legacy through songs about hope and HopeWest

By Diana Barnett

John Winn always has a tune in his head. Among his many musical talents, he has a special flair for giving ordinary things new life through song.

The 89-year-old folk singer— whose career took him from his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri to New York City’s Greenwich Village, where he met contemporaries Judy Collins; Bob Dylan; Peter, Paul & Mary; and José Feliciano—finds inspiration from friends and family, the earth’s beauty, social causes and life experiences.

For those who know Winn, it should come as no surprise that he’d find inspiration even after an emergency surgery last fall revealed health complications that led him to hospice care and into the loving hands of HopeWest. Winn’s cardiologist told him that only open-heart surgery could treat his problem, but he wasn’t strong enough to survive that particular surgery.

Shortly after the surgery, Winn created “Circle of Life,” a pre-obituary recording of sorts with photos, video clips and music spanning his

musical career. With the help of videographer Jon James of Shedd Studio, it debuted in Fruita last year and is one of many music videos the two have worked on together and posted on Winn’s YouTube channel.

“I usually take a new song in once a week and play it, then Jon works his magic and it appears on my YouTube channel,” said Winn.

“Angels and Nurses,” one of Winn’s more recent songs, was inspired by the nurses and caregivers at HopeWest, whom he credits for improvements in his health. His wife, Kristin, also takes advantage

Local music legend John Winn finds inspiration from friends and family, social causes, life experiences and his nurses at HopeWest.

“THE SURGEON KEPT ME FROM DYING AND THE HOPEWEST STAFF HAS KEPT ME ALIVE. THEY GAVE ME SIX MONTHS AND NOW IT’S BEEN NINE.”

of HopeWest’s grief counseling services.

“The surgeon kept me from dying and the HopeWest staff has kept me alive,” said Winn. “They gave me six months, and now it’s been nine.”

The video was shared with the HopeWest staff at the end of their quarterly meeting.

“His testament illustrates the incomparable impact our team makes each day, profoundly bound to the lives of the patients we humbly serve,” President & CEO Cassie Mitchell said.

EARLY ROOTS

A dynamic musician, Winn trained in classical music, singing opera and performing in summer stock productions before settling in to a comfortable folk style that accommodates his mellow tenor voice, guitar skills and composing talents.

Terri Thal, his longtime friend and Bob Dylan’s first manager, noted two outstanding qualities to Winn’s music: his lyrics are singable and they always highlight an underlying message.

“You can march or carry a poster to get your ideas across, but if I can put meaningful words to music to voice how I feel and share it all over the world on the Internet, then that’s what I will do,” said Winn.

In his song, “By the Old Cook Stove,” Winn reminisces about growing up in a one-room house in Hannibal, Missouri. His love of skiing in the mountains is told in

“Dancing Down the Mountains

Once Again,” and “Remembering the First Night We Danced” is a love song he wrote to Kristin. His concern for the world is expressed in “In the Year of 2020,” a series

with a plea for change for a world at peace.

BOOKS & MUSIC

Despite his health issues, Winn continues to write music.

“He is working on his music all the time,” said Zanna Davis, his CNA.

Colin Purser, a local musician mentored by Winn, verified his perseverance.

“Winn will create and produce right up to the finish line,” said Purser.

Winn’s YouTube channel features over 60 music videos. He has released 13 CDs of original songs. In 2015, Winn wrote his autobiography, “This Singin’ Thing,” which is available on Amazon Books and Kindle. He also released a book of lyrics, “Songs of a Traveling Troubadour” in 2020. ■

Golf Amidst the

See America’s Stonehenge and other earthen marvels

By Victor Block

People ascending a high mountain ridge in Wyoming are greeted by a collection of rocks carefully laid out in a geometric design. Visitors to southwestern Ohio marvel at the sight of a mammoth earthwork shaped like an undulating snake. A maze of stone walls, chambers and other structures perched on a hill in New Hampshire lives up to its nickname of “America’s Stonehenge.”

If you’re under the impression that archaeology is a dull, mind-numbing subject, think again. Sites throughout the U.S. relate fascinating chapters of human history through artifacts and other remnants of people who once lived in the area. An Internet search is likely to reveal the location of one or more such places within a short commute from where you live.

ROCK WONDERS

Take that mountain-top rock pile in the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming. It’s one of many places around the country where Native American life is told through objects, inscriptions and other remains.

The main feature of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a circular pattern of stones 82 feet in diameter. A pile of rocks called a cairn is in the center with 28 radial lines extending from it. Some of those spokes

indicate the direction of the rise of the Earth’s sun and stars at various times. While the wheel was used by members of many different tribes, who built it remains a mystery.

Another unanswered riddle is why an important earthen monument in northern Louisiana was abandoned around 1100 B.C. after so much effort went into building it. The Poverty Point World Heritage Site was made by Native Americans who sculpted nearly two million cubic yards of soil into a 72-foot high mound, concentric half-circles and other shapes.

Millions of artifacts have been found in the vicinity, including domestic tools, figures of humans and tons of stones that were transported from up to 800 miles away. Researchers speculate the structure was part of an ancient residential, trade and ceremonial center.

Another unknown is who created the 1,300-foot long earthen snake in today’s Hillsboro, Ohio, or why it’s depicted swallowing an egg. Scientists theorize that the giant serpent marked a vast tomb, was a place for religious ceremonies or served as an oversized calendar. What’s known is that it was constructed between 381 and 44 B.C.

Religious rites of Native Americans provide the most popular theory for construction of the Mystery Hill archaeological site in

Wyoming’s Bighorn Medicine Wheel. Source: Wiki Commons

AN INTERNET SEARCH IS LIKELY TO REVEAL THE LOCATION OF ONE OR MORE SUCH PLACES WITHIN A SHORT COMMUTE FROM WHERE YOU LIVE.

New Hampshire, estimated to have taken place some 2,500 years ago. Despite its informal label, the structure doesn’t resemble England’s Stonehenge. Rather, it consists of a number of stone chambers, walls and many other features stretched out over 105 acres.

STORIES IN THE ROCK

Many of our country’s archaeological sites that are associated with Native Americans include petroglyphs as the main attraction.

For years, members of the Cherokee tribe in North Carolina used a soapstone boulder as a sort of billboard, etching images of human figures, animal tracks, suns and other objects. The large stone is notched by seven grooves which, according to Cherokee legend, were created by Judaculla, a powerful giant who could control the weather and leap from one mountaintop to another. So many petroglyphs decorate the Judaculla Rock that it’s virtually impossible to pinpoint the exact number.

How many images transform the sandstone cliffs of Sego Canyon in Utah into a fascinating outdoor art gallery is well known—over 80. The unanswered question is what or whom they represent. Research suggests that the petroglyphs were carved and painted by Native Americans over a period of 8,000 years by people of several distinct cultures.

Some of the ghostlike life-size figures have hollowed or missing eyes, others have no arms or legs, and many wear chunky ornaments and sport a headdress that resem -

bles antennae. Speculation about whom or what these haunting forms represent ranges from shamanistic visions produced when the artists were in a trance-like state to extra-terrestrial visitors from space.

The Hagood Creek Petroglyph Site in South Carolina provides a more down to earth experience. For one thing, the big boulder, which contains 32 images representing various aspects of Native American life, is protected in a museum. Adding to the enjoyment is a narrated light show that describes the carvings and tells the story of their discovery.

The museum is part of a historic complex which includes an 1845 grist mill, restored log cabins, a blacksmith shop, cotton gin and moonshine still.

Unlike the Hagood petroglyphs, most archaeological sites remain outdoors where they were created long ago. Their variety and locations around the country, provide intriguing destinations for day trips or longer expeditions wherever you happen to live. ■

IF YOU GO…

Bighorn National Forest Sheridan, WY

fs.usda.gov/bighorn | 307-674-2600

Poverty Point World Heritage Site Pioneer, LA

PovertyPoint.us | 318-926-5492

Serpent Mound Historical Site Hillsboro, OH

GreatSerpentMound.com | 800-752-2757

America’s Stonehenge Salem, NH

StonehengeUSA.com | 603-893-8300

Judaculla Rock

Jackson County, NC

JudacullaRock.com | 828-293-3053

Hagood Creek Petroglyph Site Pickens, SC

HagoodMillHistoricSite.com | 864-898-2936

Source: Wiki Commons

Sky Ute Casino Resort, Southern Colorado’s Destination for Play 888.842.4180 | 14324 HWY 172 North, Ignacio, CO 81137 | skyutecasino.com

Petroglyphs at Sego Canyon, Utah

Best

Salsa

Thanks for Your Salsa Recipes!

We received dozens of recipes for red and green salsas, canning salsas, fresh garden salsas, nutty salsas, fruit salsas and spicy salsas that just about burned our tongues off! We taste tested some of our favorite recipes and shared them with you, and select-

Traditional Salsa

• By Elaine

Hubler

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes

• 3 cloves of garlic

• ½ bunch of cilantro (leaves only)

• 2 green jalapeños

• 2 yellow jalapeños (use green jalapeños if you can’t find yellow)

• ½ medium onion

• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 Tbsp coarse black pepper

Pulse tomatoes in food processor then place in a bowl. Pulse cilantro and jalapeños in food processor and add to bowl. Lastly, pulse onion and garlic then mix into bowl with all other ingredients. Add salt to taste.

ed three winners in the categories for best fruit salsa, best traditional salsa and best overall.

Check out some bonus recipes that we liked but didn’t try on our website: BeaconSeniorNews.com

Best Overall Salsa

This salsa had the best of both worlds— a bold spice with mild sweetness!

Best Fruit Salsa

Peach Salsa • By

Strawberry Salsa

• 1 cup strawberries, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, diced

•

By Lisa Meyer

• 1 Tbsp jalapeños, deseeded and finely diced

• 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro leaves

• Lime juice to taste

• Sea salt and pepper to taste

Combine ingredients and mix. Great on salmon!

Bettie Bruton

• 3 cups ripe peaches, cubed and peeled

• 1 cup green onions, chopped

• ½ cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice

• 3 Tbsp finely jalapeño, seeded and chopped

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp salt

Combine all ingredients in bowl. Toss well. Cover. Chill.

Salsa • by Kathy Martin

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped

• 5 green onions, chopped

• 1 small can green chiles, chopped

• 1 small can black olives, sliced

• 14 cilantro leaves, chopped

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar

• ½ tsp Lawry’s seasoned salt

• ½ tsp garlic salt and pepper

Combine ingredients and let sit for 2 hours or more.

Rita’s Gourmet Salsa • by

Li’s deLIcious salsa •

by Li Johansen

• 80 oz tomatoes, chopped, peeled and drained

• 3 cups onions, chopped

• 7-10 garlic cloves, minced

• 1¾ cup green pepper, chopped

• 5 jalapeños, diced, deseeded and membranes removed (leave some for heat)

• 2½ tsp cumin

• 2½ tsp ground black pepper

• 2½ Tbsp fine/pickling salt

• 1/3 cup cilantro (fresh or dried)

• 1/4-1/3 cup sugar

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes, diced

• 2 jalapeños, chopped

• 1 poblano pepper, chopped

• Chopped green onions to taste

• 1 can Rotel tomatoes

• 1 cup cilantro, minced

• 2 cloves garlic, diced

• 1 lime, squeezed

• 1 Tbsp chicken bouillon powder

Mix the following ingredients for a tasty and refreshing salsa!

Summer Nutty Salsa

• by Kirklyn Viselli

• 1 large can chopped stewed tomatoes

• 1 small can of tomato sauce

• ½ cup peanuts, smashed

• ½ cup of red onions, diced

• ¼ cup cilantro

• ½ cup black olives, diced

• 1 Tbsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 Tbsp lime juice

• ½ tsp cumin

• 1 cup of tiny jalapeño, diced

Southwest Salsa

• by Marion Pace

• 1 can Mexican stewed tomatoes

• 1 fresh tomato, chopped

• ½ bunch green onions, chopped

• 1 small can green chilies, diced

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp white sugar

• 4 garlic cloves (fresh), chopped

Place 1/2 of above mixture in blender for a brief spin. Add remaining ingredients to blender. Stir together. Place in refrigerator in covered container. Stores up to two weeks.

Combine all ingredients and mix in a large bowl. Divide into a smaller bowl and serve with chips.

Pepper Salsa

• by Richard Melgosa

• 5 roasted hatch chiles without the skin

• 2 garlic cloves

• ½ tsp dry oregano

• ¼ tsp ground cumin

• 1 to 1½ cups cool water

Place all ingredients into a blender then mix until well blended. It’s yummy on a burger! (The BEACON staff thinks it’d be great on tacos and tamales too!)

• 1¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 16 oz tomato sauce

• 12 oz tomato paste

Combine all ingredients and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Follow canning instructions. I used inversion method and refrigerated after cooled.

Don’t Knock It, Until You Try It!

Awesome Salsa • by Ray Hyson

• 1 large onion (fist size)

• 5-8 jalapeños

• 1½ Tbsp oregano, dried

• 1 Tbsp whole cumin seed

• 1/2 Tbsp basil, dried

• Fresh or powdered garlic to taste (2 cloves or 1 tsp granules or powder)

• Salt to taste (approx. 1 tsp)

• 28 oz. can of Hunts whole tomatoes

Put onion and jalapeños in bottom of blender (cut onion into eight pieces and put jalapeños in, stems and all). Add spices, then tomatoes. Blend in pulses, being careful not to puree. Push tomatoes down with a spoon if needed (while blender is not running, unplugged).

Important! The whole secret to making this salsa is in the blending process. So try to leave the salsa chunky…it’s much better that way.

Mark Weingartner

A life in God’s house

By John Vieths

Psalm 27:4: One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.

Most of us are very concerned about the economy of our nation and our financial future. Many of us struggle to find the kind of work that allows us to make ends meet. Still, most people alive today have lived through one of the longest and strongest rises in prosperity in the history of the world. Americans live in one of the wealthiest nations on earth, not only now but ever.

Living in a land of plenty has its own temptations though. The more we have, the more we are tempted to think that having stuff is the meaning of life. The more we have, the more we are tempted to worry about keeping what we have.

We fret and fear when life’s inevitable changes bring an end to a job, a threat to our health, damage to our property or danger to our families. These cares and anxieties play on our inborn sinfulness. They gnaw at the faith God has given us. In this way, they threaten not only our bodies, but our very souls!

David knew such changes and temptations, too. He went from being a poor shepherd boy, to a respected member of the royal court, to a hunted outlaw, to the King of Israel. How did he get through this roller coaster of changing fortunes? He did it by keeping one thing always before him: “…that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon his beauty and to seek him in his temple.”

David knew what it was to have money, family, fame and power. He also knew what it was like to live without them. But what he always wanted was to stand in God’s presence. He wanted to see the beauty

of his Lord in worship, not some visible appearance of his invisible God and not brightly colored fabrics of the tent in which God was worshiped at that time. He wanted to see the beauty of God’s love for him, the promise of forgiveness signified in the sacrifices, the promise of God’s faithfulness in the feasts and readings that recalled his great acts of deliverance from the past and the promise of a Savior foreshadowed by it all.

Dear Christian, God has given you your heart’s desire! David’s prayer is your possession—a life in God’s house. Some of you, perhaps, have felt at times as though you almost literally did “dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of your life.” What has drawn you to worship and service was not the belief that you were working your own way up that ladder of goodness into heaven. In your worship, the Lord is getting you through life.

In the annals of history, neither you nor I may enjoy a prominent place. But a life lived in God’s house is particularly blessed. There, God richly weaves all the blessings of salvation into the fabric of your life. By God’s grace it will someday see us on to the eternal blessings of heaven. ■

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

All aboard the MOD Express!

All Points Transit launches new route service, free fares through August

AllPoints Transit recently launched the MOD Express, a new bus route running between Montrose, Olathe and Delta. This service will run hourly between the communities from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

To celebrate the new service, All Points Transit will be offering free fares on this route, as well as the Montrose Public Bus, in conjunction with the State of Colorado’s Zero Fare for Better Air campaign. All Points Transit encourages residents and visitors to ride transit to help keep Colorado’s air clean during the summer months when air pollution is at its highest.

Bus stops on the MOD route include a stop at the downtown transfer station in Montrose and two stops in Olathe. The route will also serve the Technical College of the Rockies. Delta will have four stops: Delta Housing Authority on Bluff Street, downtown at Fifth and Meeker Streets, a stop on Circle Drive (serving the new River Valley Family Health Center and Walmart)

Caring for the Whole Person

and a stop at Delta Health.

All Points Transit will begin charging fares on September 1. The expected fares are $4 each way for adults and $2 each way for youth, students, veterans, older adults and persons with disabilities. Day passes and single rides can be purchased with cash through the driver with exact change. Punch passes and monthly pass options will also be available.

The full route map can be found at AllPointsTransit.org.

All Points Transit is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing public transit service and assisted transportation for older adults and persons with disabilities. Visit AllPointsTransit.org or call 970-2490128 for more information. ■

STAAY AWHHILLE

Long-Term Care: Our residents are our number-one priority. We’re always looking for ways to make individuals feel at home and to help their families feel welcome. Our facility is staffed with licensed nurses 24/7, giving families peace of mind knowing that their loved one is well cared for.

Hospice Care: We work closely with hospice organizations to provide residents with comfort and love in their time of need, including spiritual care and additional support for family members.

Skilled Rehabilitation: Our experienced therapists offer the highest level of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to help our residents attain their optimal functioning level. Afterwards, we’ll assist them in making the transition to long-term care or back home.

Respite Care: For families taking care of a loved one, we offer respite care as availability allows. Whether you’re going on vacation or just needing a week of rest, we would be more than happy to care for your loved one.

We are a skilled nursing community offering person-centered rehabilitation. Dedicated to enhancing the lives of those we serve.

Here’s your AI reality check

The bright side of artificial intelligence

Last month, I introduced a basic definition and description of modern artificial intelligence (AI).

The term is only vaguely defined and there is no baseline for when something becomes artificially intelligent. One could argue that all computers are artificially intelligent, but the difference between your old pocket calculator and modern AI is significant.

AI is more than just faster calculating, more storage and more accurate sorting. AI is a combination of hardware and software that work together to allow a computer to predict, anticipate and “learn” from each function it performs.

For example, a computer can be programmed to recognize all of the details that make up a face and even arrange face parts into a believable picture of a face. But AI takes that further. Once it recognizes what eyes look like, it will analyze all of the eyes in the database so that it can create its own realistic eyes. If it does this with each part of a face and then analyzes and recognizes patterns in facial features, skin tones, bone structure and various contortions and positions of each part, the computer can “intelligently” build a realistic image of a face that doesn’t exist in the offline world.

Whenever there is a new disruptive innovation, especially one that evokes doom and gloom predictions for the future of civilization or humankind, I like to ponder the positives and sort out the reality from the myths.

REPLACING ROUTINE

When innovation disrupts civilization, it’s important to consider how that aspect of civilization came to be and whether there are reasons to consider whether that particular

facet is due for a shift.

Just as the internet and social media devastated traditional media, retail and the postal system, AI will devastate almost any field where humans perform routine tasks or perform work that relies on formulas, precise workflows or rote memory.

If the purpose of a job or an industry is to create variants of something that already exists or to make predictions, analyses or reports based on readily available data, that job will join landline phones, tube televisions, and Blockbuster in innovation heaven/hell.

SILVER LININGS

It’s easy to agonize about AI. But if you are one of those silver-lining types that feels like everything happens for a reason, there are some existential reasons to be excited about AI.

For 300 years, survival of a society or culture was dependent on its ability to function mechanically. The more mechanical a military, business or campaign functioned, the more efficient it became.

Our current education model was based on creating a workforce that could turn any business or industry into a well-oiled machine. Even industries that have no factories (such as publishing, health care and banking) have adopted assembly-line processes.

Civilization has become so mechanical, one could argue that humanity is at risk of devaluing creativity. Civilization has become so fixated on the profits of efficiency, replication and mass production that it has lost appreciation for both humanity and nature.

Schools and industry have spent 300 years turning people into machines. It’s no surprise that the pro -

- Stephanie R. Holguin - Andrew Smith - Jill Cenamo - Michael P. Burke -

Our team is looking forward to meeting you at Sept. 14, 2023 | 9am-2pm Montrose Pavilion Booth #48

cess of creating machine-like humans has led to a desire for humans to replace the dreary aspects of their lives with machines.

Perhaps this will lead to humans being more human. Perhaps around the corner is a new advancement—one in which humans can experience the wonders of nature and gain wisdom from mishap-filled adventures that allow us to enhance and reclaim our humanity because machines take care of the low-grade clerical work, routine processes and for mulaic report writing.

We have surpassed the figure anticipated by Leonardo da Vinci and Jules Verne. We are now living in the future anticipated by Arthur C. Clarke, Phillip K. Dick, and Isaac Asimov. But it doesn’t have to be an apoc alyptic future of technology and dust. Within the works of each of these authors, humanity discovers itself.

CIVILIZATION HAS BECOME SO FIXATED ON THE PROFITS OF EFFICIENCY, REPLICATION AND MASS PRODUCTION THAT IT HAS LOST APPRECIATION FOR BOTH HUMANITY AND NATURE.

I think that is likely far more important than whether computers and robots are going to steal our jobs.

REALITY CHECK

I am an alternative education enthusiast. I homeschooled my kids, and when I taught mass communication to university students, I taught them without textbooks, reports, quizzes or tests.

That’s because I believe that creativity is the core of innovation, ingenuity and problem solving.

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

In other words, I believe that being human is more essential to progress than being a machine.

One thing is certain about the present: students aren’t being prepared for a future where they have to improvise and excel at being human. Until failure is seen as a part of the human process of gaining wisdom, and society admits that education is what happens when you discover what you weren’t taught in school, the school system is going to produce “educated” students who can be replaced by AI and machines. ■

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

The Rat Pack lived by their own rules in original

By Randal C. Hill

Las Vegas takes our money, sure, but what if the tables were suddenly turned and we took their money? Who wouldn’t enjoy that?

In 1958, actor Peter Lawford paid $10,000 for a story idea that a movie-director pal claimed to have heard from a gas station attendant. Lawford then approached his fellow members of the celebrated Rat Pack (though the men preferred the more dignified nickname of The Summit), which included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop.

Lawford shared a proposal about using the idea for a heist-caper film set in Sin City. When he heard the concept, Sinatra joked, “Forget the movie! Let’s pull the job!”

The “Ocean’s 11” plot line became a setup for the five hard-drinking, chain-smoking, dame-chasing headliners to make whoopee onscreen—which they did with ease and aplomb as they adlibbed many of their lines.

The premise of the gather-theguys yarn stars Ol’ Blue Eyes (Sinatra) as leader Danny Ocean, who assembles a squad of Army-veteran paratrooper pals for a civilian commando raid in Las Vegas on New Year’s Eve. Each participant exudes a different level of passion, and each has a personal reason to be involved. One hopes to help his wife stop stripping for a living. Another is terminally ill and wants to provide for his kid’s college tuition. Another sees a chance to buy his way out of a mundane life that includes driving a truck.

The plan was to simultaneously cut off the electricity at midnight at

five major casinos—the Sahara, the Riviera, the Desert Inn, the Sands and the Flamingo. The thieves would then break into casino cages, stuff $5 million in cash into trash cans, and have one of the raiders drive a treasure-laden garbage truck out of town and into hiding. But to prove that crime never pays, one of the 11 scofflaws unexpectedly dies and a monkey wrench is tossed into the mechanism of the “perfect” plan.

Sinatra and Martin earn the lion’s share of screen time together, with Sinatra once saying, “You know, sometimes I think the only reason I got into this caper was to see you again.”

Cameo appearances weave through the story and include icons such as Shirley MacLaine, Red Skelton, Angie Dickinson and George Raft.

Filming often took place in Las Vegas in short bursts during the daytime before the superstars ap -

“Let’s pull the job!”

“Ocean’s 11”

The original theatrical release poster for “Ocean’s 11” from 1960.

peared onstage to perform for the likes of JFK and other celebrities of the time.

The original “Ocean’s 11” became one of Warner Brothers’ most profitable pictures upon its August

TRIVIA:

ONE

1960 release. And while some movie critics harrumphed that the tale was immoral, most reviewers declared it a romp, and quite a clever scheme.

The original “Ocean’s 11” is now a low-tech time capsule that delights to this day. It inspired a remake starring George Clooney and Brad Pitt in 2001 that became a trilogy. “Ocean’s 8,” a spinoff starring Sandra Bullock, rebooted the franchise in 2018.

Each of the movies allows us to appreciate larger-than-life fellows with oversized personalities who try to live life by their own rules. If you haven’t seen it, definitely check out this classic. It’s one of the reasons we once loved going to the cinemas . ■

Two New Vaccines Medicare Covers Two New Vaccines in 2023

Shingles and Tdap (tetanus/ diphtheria) vaccines are free for anyone with Medicare Drug Coverage (Medicare Advantage or free-standing Part D) at the pharmacy only.

All Medicare beneficiaries with Part B coverage can still receive flu, pneumococcal, hepatitis B (medium or high risk patients) and COVID-19 vaccines at the hospital, pharmacy, Mesa County Public Health Department or in the doctor’s office. Prior to receiving any vaccine, ALWAYS check with your provider to make sure it is covered under your insurance.

Mesa County RSVP SHIP aims to empower you with information about your Medicare options, including how those options can affect your aging well process! For more information about how the new changes in vaccine coverage may affect you or your loved one, call us at 970-243-9839 x1 to schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of our State Certified Medicare SHIP Counselors to go over your unique circumstances.

The film’s closing shot shows the main cast walking away from the funeral home, with the Sands Hotel marquee behind them, listing their names as headliners.

OF THE MOST DIFFICULT TASKS FACING THE FILM’S PRODUCTION TEAM WAS ACTUALLY CONVINCING NEVADA’S CLARK COUNTY OFFICIALS TO LET THEM USE ONE OF THEIR GARBAGE TRUCKS.

1236 Periwinkle Court - $502,416

My long-lost cousin scam

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

Hopefully you know by now that the poor grammar and typos we see in email scams are a typical tip-off, and that offers sounding too good to be true typically are. Other than bogus sweepstakes though, scammers these days don’t usually spend the time and money to type and mail a good old-fashioned letter. That’s why this one, on reasonably high-quality paper with an attractive letterhead from the Bank of Singapore, caught me by surprise. It was addressed to our son, who hasn’t lived with us for about 15 years. My husband called him to ask if he wanted us to forward it or open it. At his direction, we opened it and found out about his “cousin” Lokni.

Trouble is, our family name was created by my husband and myself using a combination of my and his birth names. My birth name, in turn, was devised at the time my ancestors immigrated from Sweden, so it’s an unusual name to start with. I would bet my last $11.2 million on the fact that there are currently only three people with my surname on planet Earth.

Even with good grammar and official-looking letterhead, whoever is posing as Olivier Denis is an imposter and a scammer.

How do scammers get away with it? They win when we think they are the solution to some other problem we have. It may be helpful to list a few of the situations that may make us want to take a second look at an offer that’s too good to be true. I’ll also offer some venues to turn to for real help in that particular problem.

Lokni had apparently died with a portfolio of $11.2 million (carefully spelled out as well as printed numerically) and no known relatives. The Bank of Singapore employee (no title) has exclusive access to this money but will help our son access it.

“As long as no one gets greedy we can have a fair and equitable share by splitting the funds evenly,” promises one Olivier Denis.

You dream of the surprise of an unexpected inheritance. It’s not unheard of for people to die intestate. States maintain files of unclaimed estates. There are various laws concerning when these estates revert to the state if unclaimed. You can check out The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, but don’t bank your budget on this possibility.

You just want more money. Surely you wouldn’t respond favorable to Mr. Denis if you didn’t think you could use more money. Few of us would turn down a surprise windfall, but the chances that this will happen are vanishingly small. Rather, several tried-and-true options exist to see your portfolio rise.

Newly constructed 3 bedroom, 2 bath, separate laundry room and 2 car garage with 1590 Sq. Ft. Professional interior decorator made all the interior selections with wood laminate flooring in entry, living, dining, kitchen and hall to bedroom, tile in laundry and both baths, carpet in bedrooms. Entertainment center in living room with built-ins, electric fireplace and book shelves, dining room overlooks private patio and kitchen. All cabinets are Karman Cabinet with soft close, quartz countertops throughout with undermount sinks, back splash in kitchen and baths.

Master suite is very spacious and master bath has a separate linen closet, big walk-in closet, walk-in shower with Euro shower door and double vanities. Guest bath with tub/shower combo and built-in linen closet with access to 2nd bedroom. Separate laundry with room to have more cabinets or utility sink. L#20233025

SCAMMERS SEEM TO OFFER US FRIENDSHIP ON SOME LEVEL, BUT FRIENDS DO NOT MAKE DEMANDS OF US AS SCAMMERS DO. TRUE FRIENDS LIKELY WON’T MAKE YOU WEALTHY, BUT IT IS HEALTHY AND WISE TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND HAVE NEW EXPERIENCES AS YOU AGE.

While you’re still earning money, you can make sure you’re maximizing your take-home pay by moving into the most lucrative job for which you qualify. Higher paying jobs typically involve more mental stress but less physical stress. Keep working. The life expectancy for us boomers is around 80, depending on your conditions. That still leaves a lot of play time if you push your full retirement towards age 70.

Once you’re retired, you’re limited to two options. The most straightforward is to spend less money. Design a reasonable budget and stick to it.

The other is to earn more on your portfolio. A financial advisor may be able to help. This option generally involves taking on more risk, although not always. You may have a considerable portion of your portfolio in non-interest-bearing bank accounts which instead could be invested in FDIC-insured CDs or treasury bills and bonds.

You may also be susceptible to a scam if you’re lonely. Many of us reach a place in our lives where the

life that has worked for us in the past either isn’t working for us now or isn’t available to us. Scammers seem to offer us friendship on some level, but friends do not make demands of us as scammers do. True friends likely won’t make you wealthy, but it is healthy and wise to make new friends and have new experiences as you age.

The safest way to begin is to start with known channels like your family, friends, neighbors, church or familiar organizations. Expand to other local organizations whose work you admire. You will meet new people with similar interests. When you turn to helping others, you will find others who admire you for your personal qualities and not for what you can give them.

Next time you get a letter or email which reminds you of Olivier Denis’ polite entreaty, recycle it before you finish the first paragraph. Moreover, if you’re currently in the middle of a situation such as this, swallow your pride and get some help from a family member, a financial advisor, or your banker. The sooner the better. ■

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Is there room left in heaven?

By Richard Strack

Every, now and then, my twisted mind pops out this question: Is there room left in heaven?

Now I’m going to be presumptuous here and think that despite the wrongs I’ve done in my life, I will have a decent chance to stand in front of the pearly gates when my time is up on earth. Yet, I have this fear of seeing a no vacancy sign hung on the gate when I get there.

Hear me out for a second. The Population Reference Bureau reports that by 2050, 113 billion people will have lived and died. That isn’t counting the more than 7.5 billion people who are projected to be alive that year. That means there are 15 dead people to every one living person, which quite possibly means I’ll take the trip upstairs to a heaven overload.

That’s not counting the number of dogs (because all dogs go to heaven), other animals, insects, flowers and trees. I mean, everything alive dies. Who’s to say that the first thing I see when I walk past the gate won’t be a Tyrannosaurus rex?

Now for those who believe it’s not about physical beings squeezing themselves on every inch of every cloud because we somehow vaporize into little bitty spirits, that causes another problem. Shouldn’t we see the faces of our loving departed when we arrive in paradise? Imagine you’re looking for your mother and a tiny voice stuck inside a microscopic dot whispers, “I’m over here!”

I wonder where we get to hang out after we get through heaven’s admissions process, which I hope isn’t like wasting half a day at the motor vehicle agency. I envision a place called the Afterlife Mall—a string of storefronts that represent what we worshipped or didn’t worship while we were still living. There’s the Catholic Center, the Protestant Place, the Jewish Joint and the Muslim Mecca to name a few. Down the way is the All Souls Store and one with a marquee, Universal God. I think there will be an Atheist Information Desk in heaven, too. Pope John once admitted that even if you don’t believe in God, but you do his work in the world, you’ll

THE UNIVERSE HAS A FINITE LENGTH. SO WHY SHOULDN’T WE THINK HEAVEN MIGHT HAVE A BEGINNING AND AN END TOO? AFTER ALL, THE POPULATION UP THERE KEEPS GROWING, AND WITH EVERYONE HAVING ETERNAL LIFE, IT MUST GET PRETTY DARN CROWDED.

still get to go there.

But there’s no end to heaven, people say. It’s infinite, we think. Did anyone talk with an eyewitness who can confirm this?

Science says the universe is over 26 billion years old. Its length has been calculated at 94 billion lightyears. If this is true, then the universe has a finite length. So why shouldn’t we think heaven might have a beginning and an end too? After all, the population up there keeps growing, and with everyone having eternal life, it must get pretty darn crowded.

Imagine one day I go fishing at a lake in heaven. I see one small spot that’s open, like the only space left in a crowded parking lot. I jump in and now I’m elbow to elbow with Muhammad Ali on my left and Billy Graham on my right. Ali casts his line and it tangles with mine. He gives me a stern look and pushes me into Mr. Graham.

“What the hell are you doing?” I shout to the former heavyweight champion.

He stares at me and pulls on his line again.

“My son, there’s no speaking that word here,” says Graham. “It’s okay to say, ‘For heaven’s sake,’ but please do not speak that other H word.”

Frustrated, I cut off the end of my line and move on. There’s another opening at the far end of the lake between the Kennedy brothers but I’m going to pass. Never get between siblings, especially one who was a president and the other who wanted to be.

Someone tells me Elvis Presley is having a concert just above the Milky Way. I ask what time and George Carlin says, “Time? There’s

no time in heaven. Whenever you get there, he’ll be singing his greatest hits.”

“How did you get up here?” I ask him. “You never believed.”

“Jesus greeted me at the Atheist Information Desk. Do I need to say more?” he replies.

I decide to take a further look around. I come across a stage where John Wilkes Booth is performing in a play.

“What’s with him being up here?” I ask a woman who looks like Princess Diana.

“It’s that forgiveness thing,” she says. “Look over there to see who’s watching the murderer act in the play.”

I look to where she’s pointing and I see Abraham Lincoln smiling and clapping his hands. Talk about the power of forgiveness!

I see people everywhere in heaven, but I don’t like crowds. I find a tree where no one’s in sight and take a seat.

“There are 12 gates and seven levels of heaven, my son,” says a booming voice behind me. I turn and look, but there’s nobody there. “There is plenty of room for everyone and that includes you.”

“Is that you, God?”

“Yes, my son.”

Suddenly I feel the urge to go to the bathroom. I look across a cloud and see a line of people waiting to use the porta-potty. A guy walks by and hands me a diaper he pulled from a box he’s carrying.

“They come in handy up here when the lines get too long,” he says. “By the way, you’d better hurry to the buffet line before the 18,000 cavemen get there. It’s steak night and they run out of food early.” ■

County

August 1

Writer’s Night: Get Published While You Wait

Writing for magazines and newspapers is a great way to make connections and hone your craft while you wait for your next novel to be published. Join BEACON

Editor Cloie Sandlin at the Art Center as she discusses the art of writing stories for local publications, from pitching stories and coming up with interview questions to writing a finished piece that hooks your reader. She’ll also talk about style, best practices and journalism do’s and don’ts.

6 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St. | Free | westerncoloradowriters.org | 970-822-7373

August 5

Live in the Grapevines: Hazel Miller

Raise money for Mesa County Partners while listening to Hazel Miller and the Collective at Grande River Vineyards. Burgers and brats will be available for purchase, along with your favorite Grande River Vineyard wine. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets.

6-10 p.m. | 787 Grande River Drive, Palisade | $25-30 | 970-730-2008

August 10

Midday with New Dimensions

Dr. Catherine Whiting discusses nebular theory for planetary formation in our solar system in this free presentation at the Central Library. She’ll also talk about recent planet discoveries, the latest hypotheses on planet formation and evolution, and plans for the James Webb Space Telescope to study newly forming planetary systems.

12-1 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St. | Free | mesacountylibraries.org | 970-243-4442

August 10

August 2

New-to-Medicare 101

Learn when and how to sign up for Medicare, what Parts A and B cover, how to choose the best health and drug plan and more in this free seminar at Mesa County RSVP SHIP. Call to reserve your seat.

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 422 White Ave. | Free | mesacountyrsvp.org | 970-243-9839

August 3

Eco-Print Scarf Printing

Create a one-of-a-kind silk scarf and learn the process of eco-printing at Confluence Studios. The instructor will supply necessary materials, except a flat-headed hammer (bring your own). You can also bring fresh plant materials such as garden flowers, leaves and weeds!

1:30-4:30 p.m. | 660 White Ave. | $90 | imconfluencestudios.com | 970-314-2584

Centennial Band in the Park Centennial Band entertains audiences with concert band classics, marches, patriotic anthems and popular music including movie/TV theme songs. Bring a blanket or a chair to a free summer concert at Sherwood Park.

7 p.m. | 1301 E. Sherwood Drive| Free | gjcentennialband.org | 417-522-5256

August 10

The History of Newspapers

Former Palisade Tribune publisher Bob Sweeney discusses the history of newspapers at the Ordinary Fellow Winery in Palisade.

6 p.m. | 202 Peach Ave., Palisade | Free | historicpalisade.org | 970-464-2177

August 10, 17 & 24

Fundamentals of Drawing

Come to Confluence Studios with the expectation to tame that “I can’t draw” voice inside your head! This three-session class provides excellent foundational skills for those seeking to improve their ability to both draw and paint. All necessary supplies provided.

1:30-4:30 p.m. | 660 White Ave. | $120 | imconfluencestudios.com | 970-314-2584

audience participation and amazing guest stars.

8-10 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $25-55+ | avalontheatregj.com | 970-263-5757

August 11

A Year in the Canyons Art Show

After a year spent roaming the canyons of Western Colorado, Colorado Canyons Association’s artist in residence Andrea Stolarczyk has created an incredible gallery of artwork from Colorado’s National Conservation Areas. View her art at Our Lady of Perpetual Motion. Original art, prints and merchandise will be for sale.

5-8 p.m. | 503 E. Aspen St., Fruita | Free | coloradocanyonsassociation. org | 970-263-7902

August 15

Music in the Grapevines

Make it a date with wine, dinner and live music in the shadow of the Colorado National Monument as The Still House String Band plays at Two Rivers Winery. The band describes their music as “bluegrass with a pedal board addiction.” Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. Wine is available by the glass or bottle. Proceeds benefit the Art Center.

7-9 p.m. | 2087 Broadway | $15-20 | artcenterguild.org | 970-549-0439

August 18-19

August 11

Dinos at Dusk

Dig for fossils at the Mygatt-Moore Quarry to celebrate the end of a “rawr”-some dig season with Museums of Western Colorado’s Dr. Julia McHugh. Tour the quarry, take a guided hike on the Trail Through Time, or just sit back and enjoy the party! Participants receive one drink token and one taco.

5:30-8:30 p.m. | $75 | museumof westernco.com | 970-242-0971

August 11

Lance Burton and Friends

Bring the grandkids to a magical evening at the Avalon! Magician Lance Burton was a Las Vegas headliner for three decades. His new live show is a mix of illusions, sleight of hand,

Palisade Peach Festival

Experience Palisade Peaches at their finest during Peach Festival weekend with orchard farm tours on Friday and peach-themed chef demos, live music, a peach-eating contest, parade and more at Riverbend Park. See website for a complete schedule.

Times vary | 451 Pendleton St., Palisade | $15-20 seniors (62+), $8-10 kids (3-12) | palisade peachfest.com | 970-464-7458

August 18

Billy Currington at the AMP Billy Currington’s latest album bears the breezy title “Summer Forever,” but the talented Georgia native has spent more than a decade in the spotlight proving he’s truly a man for all seasons.

7-11 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave. | $4565+ | theampgj.com

August 19

Raft the River

Spend a relaxing day on the water with RiversEdge West’s expert guides, who will offer insights into the vital work of riverside restoration in the Grand Valley. After the float, enjoy brunch catered by Cafe Sol along with Bloody Marys and mimosas and a chance to win prizes. Rafting equipment provided.

See website for times | $130 | palisadepeachfest.com

August 20

Craig Ferguson: The Fancy Rascal Tour

Get ready to laugh during Craig Ferguson’s comedy show at the Avalon. Ferguson is a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award-winning actor, writer, producer, director and comedian with a diverse career that encompasses film, television and the stage.

7:30-10 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $35-55+ | avalontheatregj.com | 970-2635757

August 24

Diamond Rio

Country hitmakers Diamond Rio are

set to play the Warehouse’s outside stage, armed with their old-school hits and songs from their recently released album, “I Made It.”

6-10 p.m. | 2565 American Way | $40-75 | warehouse2565.com | 970628-4321

August 24

Hose Cart Races

At Grand Junction’s Market on Main, Museums of Western Colorado re-creates one of the hottest events of the 1890s: the great hose cart races! Wear your running shoes and try your hand (or rather your feet!) to see if you can beat the Grand Junction Fire Department’s champion record.

6-7 p.m. | 462 Ute Ave. | $5 | museu mofwesternco.com | 970-242-0971

August 26

Evening Under the Stars

Relax and unwind while listening to music by the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra (GJSO) at Las Colonias Amphitheater. Bring a chair or blanket to this free concert and be ready for a magical evening alongside other Western Slope music lovers. Come hungry, as the GJSO Symphony Guild will have bratwursts in addition to several food trucks.

6:30-10 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave. | Free | gjso.org | 970-243-6787 ■

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

2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 970-241-9684

Art Quilt Association meets at Redlands Community Center.

3rd Saturdays | 9:30-11 a.m. | theartquiltassociation.com

Bookcliff Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at First Baptist Church, 720 Grand Ave. Tuesdays | 7-9 p.m. | 970-257-7664

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

Chatfield Country Kickers meets for square and round dancing at VFW #3981, 503 Florence Road.

1st & 3rd Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | 970-434-0868

Chinle Cactus Club meets at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 536 Ouray Ave.

2nd Thursdays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 970-773-7637

Citizens’ Climate Lobby advocates for climate change solutions. 970-250-4832 | grandjunction@ citizensclimatelobby.org

Clifton Book Club discusses book selections at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | mesa countylibraries.org

Colorado Archaeological Society meets monthly. Call for location. 4th Wednesday | 4:30 p.m. | 970-250-7402

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

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

Commemorative Air Force, Rocky Mountain Wing, honors military aviation at air shows and its museum at 780 Heritage Way, Gate 10. Call ahead.

2nd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 970-2560693 | rmwcaf.org

Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 970-434-6936

Cribbage Lite plays at IHOP near Mesa Mall, 2420 Hwy 6 & 50. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 970-201-7823

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, celebrates patriotism and champions education. Club meets monthly. 970-250-7401

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

1st Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 303-6531941

Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Desert West Chapter, meets at Appleton Christian Church.

1st Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. | 970-8582002

Explorer’s Bible Study, open to all women, meets at Redlands Community Church, 2327 S. Broadway.

Wednesdays | 9:30-11:15 a.m. | 970-260-0880

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

Former, retired and active sea service, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard welcome.

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

Friendship Force promotes travel and cultural understanding through home stays. Club meets at New Covenant Baptist Church, 3196 F Road.

3rd Saturday | 2 p.m. | 214-5362250 | ffwcolo.com

Grand Junction Brush & Palette meets at The Art Center, 1803 N. 7th St.

3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | brushand paletteclub.org

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

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-9861502

Grand Junction Symphony Guild meets at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 271/2 Road.

4th Friday | 9:30 a.m. | sheri@mei. net

Grand Junction Toastmasters promotes communication and leadership skills.

Tuesdays at 6:45 a.m. | Thursdays at 12 p.m. | 970-241-1900

Grand Slam Bridge Club plays at Redlands Community Center. Beginners welcome.

Mondays | 12:15 p.m. | 970-2168807 | sharon7nt@gmail.com

Grand Valley Kennel Club meets at Pawsitive Directions, 571 32 Road, Clifton.

3rd Monday | 6:30 p.m. | grand valleykennelclub.org | 970-256-1938

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

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

Grand Junction Modeleers flying club meets at 427 Sherman Drive.

2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | gjmodeleers. com

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Grand Junction Convention Center.

3rd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | grandjunctionpmc.com

Grand Valley Pets Alive reduces the homeless population of dogs and cats. Volunteers meet at Church of the Nativity, 2175 Broadway.

3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-462-7554 | grandvalleypets alive.org

Grand Valley Valor Quilters meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50. 3rd Monday | 9:30 a.m. | 970-2700804 | valorquilters@gmail.com

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way.

Gerber Carol Gerber

4th Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 970-2458817 or 970-257-1549

Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way.

2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-245-8817 or 970-856-3632

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

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

Guys’ Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St.

1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-361-7478 or 970-270-6184

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

Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction meets at the Warehouse, 2565 American Way.

Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664

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

2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2706162

Knights of Columbus #13621 meets at Immaculate Heart of Mary, 790 261/2 Road.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-6403263

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. 303-549-4398 | mesacounty genealogy.org

Mesa Fiber Arts Guild meets monthly at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St.

4th Saturday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | mesafiberartsguild.org

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

Native American Cultural Program meets at First United Methodist Church, 522 White Ave. 2nd Tuesdays | 3:30 p.m. | 970433-4763

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

Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment and grace for adults 60+, meets at Koinonia, 730 25 Road.

2nd & 4th Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-433-7799 | cslgj.org

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

Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches,

hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques. 970-256-9580

River City Singles meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 25 1/2 Road, with fun activities for singles over 50. Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 970-261-2232

Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club, 2730 G Road.

Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 970-234-5030

SOS: Singles Over 65 is a gender-balanced social club for single seniors! Must join online. meetup.com/singles-over-65

Sunset Slope Quilters meets at American Lutheran Church, 631 261/2 Road.

2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. | 612-2373491 | sunsetslopequilters.com

Sweet Adelines, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way.

Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 970-245-1837 | grandmesaacappella.com

Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | thunder mountaincameraclub.org

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Valley Events Center, 2400 Consistory Ct.

Thursdays | 6 p.m. | 970-261-1670

Veterans Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Wednesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760

Veterans of Foreign Wars #1247

Auxiliary meets at 1404 Ute Ave.

2nd Sunday | 2 p.m. | 970-242-9940

Veterans of Foreign Wars #3981 meets at 503 Florence Road.

1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 970-778-8242

Women’s Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St.

1st Monday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-260-6140

Western Colorado Amateur Radio Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St.

2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | w0rrz.org

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St.

1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-201-2865 | wcacastronomy.org

Western Colorado Artists Guild meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-640-2751

Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247, 1404 Ute Ave. 4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-640-3765

Western Slope Model Yacht Club meets at Canyon View Park. Saturdays (April-October) | 10 a.m. | 303-503-3978

Western Slope Pickleball Club meets regularly. Call for details. 970-241-8561 | westernslope pickleballclub.com

Wheels West Car Club meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 251/2 Road. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www.wheels westcarclub.org

Writer Chicks Coffee Club, a ladies-only writers club, meets at Main Street Bagels, 559 Main St. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | melody jones@melodyjonesauthor.com ■

can help you increase flexibility and strength, improve balance and coordination and reduce anxiety and Celebrate the grand opening of The Gift of Love’s new office located at 2872 I-70 BL, Grand Junction, at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, August 2. There will be a ribbon cutting, food catered by Taste of Heaven and a silent auction. The Gift of Love is a nonprofit that provides regular care packages to people in domestic violence shelters, teen shelters, brain injury programs, nursing homes or assisted living

facilities, along with a friendly visit from volunteers. For more information, call Brittney Bade at 970-270-9079.

Brown’s Cremation, HopeWest sponsor monthly Loss of Spouse Potlucks

The HeartLight Center, Brown’s Cremation & Funeral Service and HopeWest sponsor Loss of a Spouse Potlucks, which are open to those who have experienced the

loss of a spouse or partner and are looking to connect with others. These potlucks are hosted every third Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at Brown’s Cremation, 904 N. 7th St. in Grand Junction. Guests are invited to bring a dish to share. Registration is required to ensure

there is enough food for all guests. To register, contact Carrie Bauer at cbauer@heartlightcenter.org or call 720-748-9908. Upcoming dates: August 16, September 20 and October 18.

Stay for Rhythm & Brews Concert after Market on Main

On August 24, Rhythm and Brews Concert Series presented by Bray & Co Real Estate is an exciting concert series that takes place at 4th and Main after Grand Junction’s Market on Main! Come enjoy live music and a beer garden on a beautiful summer evening at this free event from 5:30-10 p.m. Learn more at down towngj.org or call 970-245-9697.

Chair Yoga on Mondays

If you’re new to yoga or have mobility issues, try chair yoga at the Unitarian Universalist Church (UUCGV), 536 Ouray Ave. Classes are 3 p.m. on Mondays. Chair yoga

stress. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Mats provided, but feel free to bring your own. Cost is $8 to drop in, or purchase a 5-punch pass for $25. 100% of the class fees support church programming. There will also be a pay-it-forward jar, so if the class fee is unavailable to you, you are still encouraged to join. For more information, email programs@grandvalleyuu.org or call 970-257-0772.

Moon Farm Memories

& Book Signing

Swap stories of your memories at Moon Farm and buy Jannae Moon’s book, “Fruita’s Historic Moon Farm,” which tells the history of Wallace and Ella Moon, and how the Moon family transformed their 80-acre property into a children’s wonderland. The author will be available to sign copies at Dinosaur Journey in Fruita from 2-4 p.m. on

The Gift of Love celebrates grand opening of Grand Junction office on August 2

August 3 and at Barnes & Noble in Grand Junction from 2-4 p.m. on August 5. For more information, email djmoon@acsol.net.

Grand Valley Transit offers free fares in August Grand Valley Transit (GVT) increases mobility options for Grand Junction residents by offering lowcost public transportation across the Grand Valley. Throughout the month of August, GVT encourages community residents and visitors to ride transit to help keep Colorado’s air clean during the summer months when air pollution is at its highest by offering free trips through August 31. The effort is part of Colorado’s Zero Fare For Better Air, We’ll Get You There initiative, which was made possible by Colorado Senate Bill 22-180, the Ozone Season Transit Grant Program in partnership with the Colorado Energy Office. Call GVT at 970-244-1830 for more information.

Did you get the Income Qualified Senior Housing Income Tax Credit?

If you were (or your spouse was) 65 years of age or older at the end of 2022, you may qualify for this income tax credit. The credit is allowed to qualifying seniors who meet age and income requirements and who have not claimed a property tax exemption. To qualify, a taxpayer must satisfy all of the following requirements:

• They must be either a full-year or part-year Colorado resident for tax year 2022

• They must be 65 years or older at the end of 2022

• Their federal adjusted gross income for tax year 2022 must be $75,000 or less

• They must not have claimed a property tax exemption for tax year 2022 under section 39-3203 CRS

If you didn’t file Form 104CR on your 2022 taxes, there may still be assistance available. Contact your tax preparer with questions and to get more information. ■

Find farm fresh produce at local farmers markets

Buy local at these markets, where the admission is free and the produce is fresh. There’s also homemade food, handmade art and hundreds of deals, steals and treasures.

Cross Orchards’ FARM Market

at 3073 F Road, Grand Junction 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Wednesdays & Saturdays | museumofwesternco. com | 970-242-0971

Fruita Farmers Market at Reed Park, 250 E. Elm St., Fruita 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Saturdays | fruitafarmersmarket.org | 970858-3894

OF THE Month Question

By Cloie Sandlin

At what age were you the happiest?

Allen Simons

“The age that I’m happiest is usually the age that I’m at because happiness doesn’t relate only to age, it relates to a state of mind and spirit. I do my best to be as happy and content as I can be.”

Connie Tremblay

“I became the happiest when I realized happiness is a choice and independent of any other factor.”

Ginger Dunn

“I was happiest when I was 17. I had no responsibilities and I was still living at home. I had a job and could keep all the money that I made but I was still old enough to go out and do things.”

Palisade Farmers Market in Downtown Palisade

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Sundays | palisade. colorado.gov | 970-464-5602

Market on Main on Main Street in Grand Junction. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Thursdays | downtowngj.org |970-245-9697

Sallie Millard

“I’ve had moments of happiness at every age. Some of my happiest moments were when every one of my kids was born.”

Montrose & MeDelta Sa County

A Course in Miracles, a spiritual self-study program, meets virtually. Call for Zoom link.

Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. | 801-369-8995

Alzheimer’s Association’s Persons with Dementia group meets virtually. Contact for Zoom link.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-714-2875

Caregiver Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 28 1/4 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

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

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

970-434-3822

Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets at the Alzheimer’s Association, 2232 N. 7th St.

4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. |

970-714-2875

Dementia Support Group meets

EXPERIENCE MINING IN ACTION!

SUPPORTCALENDARGROUPS

SUPPORT GROUPS

at Aspen Ridge, 622 281/4 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

Gamblers Anonymous meets at The Meeting Hall.

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

Guitars 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Tuesdays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760

Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, 2515 Foresight Circle.

1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-245-2400

Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 970-298- 2351

Hearing Loss of America meets at Center for Independence, 740 Gunnison Ave.

2nd Saturday | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-241-0315 ext. 29

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

3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 970-778-9274

Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 970-298-2351

Loss of Spouse Potlucks are open to all who’ve experienced the loss of a spouse/partner. Guests are invited to bring a dish to share in a meal together at Brown’s Funeral & Cremation, 904 N. 7th St. Registration is required to ensure there’s enough food for all.

3rd Wednesday | 6 p.m. | 720-7489908

MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center, 2121 North Ave.

1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 970-298-2351

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

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

Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a

loved one. Call for location. Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-257-2390

Mens Health Group for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road

1st Mondays | 9:30-11 a.m. | 970- 257-3760

Moms Group for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

1st and 4th Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-257-3760

National Alliance on Mental Illness meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1210 17 1/2 Road in Fruita.

4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www. NAMIWS.org | 970-462-3989

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets in the downstairs conference room at the Freedom Institute, 930 Main St.

Thursdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2162232 | tammytway@gmail.com

Overeaters Anonymous for people with compulsive eating and food behaviors, meets at Unity Church, 3205 N. 12th St.

Saturdays | 9-10 a.m. | 970-250-8435

S.M.A.R.T. Addiction Recovery meets via Zoom. Call for details. 801-369-8995 | smartrecovery.org

St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets virtually and in person.

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

Tai Chi for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. |

970-257-3760

Thyroid Support Group meets at Grand Valley Wellness, 605 281/4 Road

4th Mondays | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | 970-263-2661

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

TOPS 458 for weight loss meets at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B ½ Road.

Tuesdays | 1 p.m. | 970-628-498122 | 970-852-5880

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

Vets 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Fridays | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-257-3760

Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 970-298-2351

Women Veterans Tai Chi meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Fridays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760 ■

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Senior Recreation Center activities

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

Registration is required for all activities. To register for programs, call 970-858-0360 or visit Fruita.org/parksrec/page/seniors

FOOD

Meals on Wheels

Adults 60+ can enjoy a quality nutritious meal in the Cherry Room. Call 970298-9844 to reserve your meal by 4 p.m. the previous business day. No walk-ins.

12 p.m. | Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Senior Potluck

Bring a shareable dish to accompany the main course or pay just $3! RSVP by noon the Monday before.

12 p.m. | August 3, 17 & 31 | $3 if no dish

Food for Thought: Peaches

Bring your favorite recipe to share.

1 p.m. | August 28 | Free Taco Social

Feast on tacos while watching a movie.

4-7 p.m. | August 25

HIKES & TRIPS

Hiking 101

Come learn some important safety tips for our hikes.

2 p.m. | August 4 | Free

Rifle Falls Adventure

Travel to Rifle Falls State Park to view the stunning triple 70-foot waterfall. Continue for a 1.5-mile loop looking for small limestone caves and area wildlife. Register by August 2.

8:30 a.m. | August 9 | $65

Mesa Lakes Hike

Hike 2.8 miles on a moderate trail around Mesa Lakes in search of wildlife and

wildflowers. Meet at the Senior Center and follow each other to the trailhead. Bring a sack lunch.

8:30 a.m. | August 15 | $5

Ruby Canyon Raft/River Float

Spend your day floating the Ruby Canyon portion of the Colorado River. Life jackets and lunch will be provided. Bring a camera, bug spray, water and sunblock. Trip includes lunch. Meet at Rimrock Adventures. Register by August 16.

7:45 a.m. | August 24 | $135

To register for these programs, call the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department at 970-254-3866 or visit GJParksAndRec.org

AUGUST 21-27

Western Colorado Senior Games

This epic week-long competition for athletes 50+ has something for everyone! Sign up before August 1.

FITNESS

10-punch passes are $60 and interchangeable for Gentle Yoga, Tai Chi or Yoga in the Park.

Goat Yoga

Find joy as you play with goats and do some gentle yoga. Bring a mat, sunscreen and water. Advance registration required.

8:30-10 a.m. | August 12 & 26 | Mesa County Fairgrounds Gazebo | $20

Latin Salsa Dance (English & Español)

This class will build upon skills throughout the month-long sessions.

6-7 p.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6 (discount when you register for session)

Kindred Nature Walk

Spend the morning enjoying this 37-acre open space park that allows for easy walking up to 2 miles on a natural dirt trail. Meet at the Senior Center and follow each other to the trailhead.

8:30 a.m. | August 29 | $5

ART

Brilliant Brushes Painting Class

Show off your painting skills in this step-by-step class in the Peach Room. Register by August 11.

2 p.m. | August 18 | $10

GAMES

Play Scrabble, pinochle, board games and more all month long at the Senior Center.

Gentle Yoga

Develop flexibility of mind and body in a fun, supportive environment.

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

Yoga in the Park

This low-impact yoga class allows you to improve flexibility, balance and strength. Bring a mat.

10-11 a.m. | 2nd, 3rd, 4th Wednesdays | Rocket Park | $8

Tai Chi

Slow circular movements, breath control and relaxation techniques help reduce stress, anxiety and sleep difficulties.

8:30-9:30 a.m. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. Thursdays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8

SPLASH Aqua Aerobics

Moderate intensity activities incorporate pool noodles, hand paddles and water weights. Silver Sneakers accepted.

8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday |

5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday | Orchard Mesa Pool | $5

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

MONDAY

9:00 a.m. Cribbage & Games

10:00 a.m. Computer Classes

12:00 p.m. Canasta

1:00 p.m. Card Bingo 6:00 p.m. Game Night

TUESDAY

(DD)

WEDNESDAY 9:00 a.m. Games 9:30 a.m. Pool

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

THURSDAY

9:00 a.m. Games

10:00 a.m. Craft Share 12:00 p.m. Pokeno 2:00 p.m. Computer Classes 1:00 p.m. Rummikub

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

SATURDAY

9:00 a.m. Games

10:00 a.m. Tai Chi

1:00 p.m. Bingo

July 29-August 6

Delta County Fair

Summer’s premier event is jam packed with family friendly events, including a free community BBQ, team roping, a ranch rodeo, vendor village with kid’s activities, live music, animal shows, a Dodge Ram rodeo, a parade and much more! See website for complete schedule of events.

Times vary | 403 S. 4th St., Hotchkiss | Free | deltacounty fair.com | 970-874-2199

August 4-6

Harps & Hammer Dulcimers

Retreat

The Harps & Hammer Dulcimer Retreat is designed for beginning acoustic musicians who want to play or need some encouragement and camaraderie. The retreat includes three educational workshops plus meals, and features a special concert by national hammered dulcimer champion Joshua Messick at 7 p.m. Saturday.

See website for times | Montrose | harpsandhammers.com | 970-275-8996

August 5

Joshua Messick

National Hammer Dulcimer Champion Joshua Messick performs at First Presbyterian Church in Montrose. There will be a CD signing and meet and greet after the concert. Doors open at 6 pm. Tickets are available at the door.

7 p.m. | 1840 Niagara Drive, Montrose | $20 | 970-275-8996

August 4

Montrose Music: Bywater Call with Dave’s Fault Head to Montrose Rotary Amphitheater in Cerise Park for a night of electric energy and soulful vocals! Bywater Call was born out of a love for southern soul, blues and roots music and a passion to create a powerful and moving experience for listeners. Gates open at 5 p.m. 6 p.m. | Shanes Way, Montrose | Free | 970-497-8558

August 4-5

Olathe Sweet Corn Festival

August 5

Desert Child at the Candle Factory

Desert Child may well be the best wedding band in the West. Their soulful sound mixes classic rock, country and modern psychedelic. Show up early for some sweet happy hour deals.

7-9 p.m. | 1842 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose | Free | bluecorncafemont rose.com | 970-626-3501

August 8

Sweet 16 Pickleball Fundraiser

Delta Pickleball hosts a fundraising tournament to assist with fellow pickleball player Rick Marion’s medical needs. There will be two divisions (3.0/3.5 and 4.0) with 16 players in each division. All of the proceeds go to helping Rick.

7:30 a.m. | 531 Palmer St., Delta | $30 | 970-874-0923, ext. 421

August 11

Delta Health Fair

Visit with local vendors at Bill Heddles Recreation Center and learn about products and services that can help you stay healthy. Early blood draws take place August 8-11 in Cedaredge, Hotchkiss and Delta. See website for details.

6:30-10:30 a.m. | 531 Palmer St., Delta | deltahealthco.org | 800-217-5866

August 11

will also be for sale at Montrose United Methodist Church.

8 a.m.-1 p.m. | 19 S. Park Ave., Montrose | Free | montroseumc.org | 970-249-3716

August 12

Black Canyon Friends of the NRA Banquet

Join other champions of the Second Amendment at Montrose County Fairgrounds for dinner, games, auctions and a chance to win exclusive NRA guns, gear, décor and collectibles! Social hour and games start at 5 p.m. with dinner and live auction at 6:30 p.m. View auction merchandise online.

5 p.m. | 1001 N. 2nd St., Montrose | $50 | friendsofnra.org | 970-209-8173

August 12-13

FUNC Fest

Feast on free, all-you-can-eat roasted Olathe Sweet Sweet Corn in celebration of the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival’s 33rd anniversary. There will also be a sweet corn-eating contest, karaoke competition, tractor pull, car show, demolition derby, food trucks, beer garden, street dance and live music by Collin Raye and Neon Sky Band.

Starts 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. Saturday | Downtown Olathe | $30 adults; $15 kids (12-17), free under 12 | olathesweetcornfest.com

Preserving the Harvest Savoring summer’s freshest fruits, vegetables and herbs well into winter is easy with a little canning and preserving knowledge, which is a lot less intimidating than you think. Join Elizabeth Buckingham at the Cedaredge Library for this free class where you’ll learn the basics, including water bath canning, freezing, pickling and dehydrating. You’ll also taste generous samples of jams, chutneys, salsas, pickles and more. Register early as space is limited.

10:30 a.m. | 180 SW 6th Ave., Cedaredge | Free | deltalibraries.org | 970-399-7674

August 12

Thrift Shop Yard Sale

Shop used housewares, dishes, lamps, toys, tools and more at Grandma’s Attic, a fundraiser yard sale to benefit United Methodist Women. Baked goods and coffee

Calling all water sports enthusiasts to Montrose Water Sports Park in Riverbottom Park for two fun-filled days of activities, both on and off of the water. This family friendly event celebrates our humble little river with a full schedule of water sports competitions, live music, local vendors, a food truck village, beer garden and more! Bring your chairs, hammocks and blankets, and watch how func-y the crowd can get!

9 a.m.- 9 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.6p.m. Sunday | 205 Apollo Road, Montrose | Free | visitmontrose. com | 970-252-4880

August 12-13

Ridgway Rendezvous

The Ridgway Rendezvous Art & Craft Festival is known for being one of the most picturesque locations for shoppers and artists and is hailed as one of the best juried art shows of the year. Take shopping breaks to enjoy live music, and bring the grandkids along for fun kid activities. Funds raised help support Weehawken Creative Arts Youth Programs.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Sunday | Hartwell Park, Ridgway | ridgwayrendezvous.com | 970-318-0150

August 17

A Year In The Canyons Art Show

After a year spent roaming the canyons of Western Colorado, Colorado Canyons Association’s artist in residence Andrea Stolarczyk has created an incredible gallery of artwork from Colorado’s National Conservation Areas. Come see her art at the Yarrow Taproom. Original art, prints and merchandise will be for sale.

5-8 p.m. | 22018 Main St., Austin | coloradocanyonsassociation.org | 970-263-7902

August 18

Open Mic at the Delta Library

Local poet Vonda Harris, author of “Love Letters and Simple Truths,” kicks off this new event by reading excerpts from her work at the Delta Library. Each participant has six minutes to present their family friendly work. If presenting someone else’s work, please give them credit.

6-8 p.m. | 124 E. 6th St., Delta | Free | deltalibraries.org | 970-874-9630

August 19

Monte de Rosas Fiesta

Montrose celebrates its Hispanic heritage with food and a parade during Saturday’s Monte De Rosas’ Fiesta at La Raza Park! Enjoy live entertainment all day long, kids activities, prizes, a beer tent, food trucks and more!

3-10 p.m. | 17 N. 6th St., Montrose | Free | visitmontrose.com | 719-293-5044

August 26

Montrose Health Fair

August 26

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Rotary Park in Montrose. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. Register to walk or donate online.

9:30 a.m. | 534 S 12th St., Montrose | act.alz.org | 720-699-9307

MONTROSE-DELTA

SEPTEMBER

August 27

Old Grand Mesa Gravel Tour

A 40-mile mix of paved roads, gravel and double-track, this tour covers some beautiful backcountry on the Grand Mesa. The ride begins at the bike shop in Cedaredge. Call or visit the website for route information.

9 a.m. | 110 SE Greenwood Ave #2, Cedaredge | $10 | silentcc.com | 970-823-0029 ■

Montrose Regional Health’s health fair is known for connecting the community with reduced-rate blood draws and various screenings to assist the community in monitoring their health. Talk to your provider about which tests may be right for you. Go online to see what’s available and to register for early blood draw events.

6:30-11 a.m. | 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose | montrosehealth.com | 970-249-2211

FROM 9.9.23

9.9.23

Alpine Photography Club meets in Class 100 at Colorado Mesa University, 245 S. Cascade, Montrose.

2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com

Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at Olathe United Methodist Church, 518 Hersum Ave.

Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-2101793

Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets at Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr.

Thursdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-323-5860

Citizen’s Climate Lobby advocates for climate change solutions and meets at Montrose Regional Library. 970-765-9095 | chapmanjanet@ yahoo.com

Crafternoon members knit and crochet projects at Montrose Regional Library to donate to charities. Thursdays | 11 a.m-1 p.m. | 970-249-9656

Crafty Chatty members work on craft projects at the Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr. Bring your own materials.

Tuesdays | 9:45-11:30 a.m. | 970-249-7198

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

Delta Hub-Wheelers Square Dance Club seeks new dancers! 970-773-4495 | deltawriter47@ gmail.com

Digging Your Roots Genealogy Group meets at Cedaredge Library, 180 SW 6th Ave.

Last Friday | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-399-7674 | deltalibraries.org

Friendship Quilters meets at Montrose County Events Center, 1036 N. 7th St.

4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 970-4174842

Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society can help you research your family history at the Montrose Genealogy Center, 700 E. Main.

Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m.

| 970-240-1755

Gold Prospectors of America meets at Olathe Community Center, 115 Main St.

3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-5969184 | wcgpaa.org

Golden Circle of Friends meets at Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr. Bring lunch and socialize.

Tuesdays & Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 17800 6400 Road.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970209-0981 | aheadaviation@outlook. com

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center.

3rd Friday | 7 p.m. | 970-417-6142

Montrose Historical Society meets at Montrose Events Center, 1036 N. 7th St.

1st Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2492085 | montrosehistory.org

Montrose Elks hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-249-4852

Montrose Library Book Club meets in the library’s meeting room, 320 S. 2nd St.

1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | 970-2499656 | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

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

Montrose Newcomers & Neighbors meets at the Montrose Pavilion Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr., September through May.

1st Wednesdays | 10 a.m. | bethcav25@gmail.com

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

2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | $10 | sanjuandanceclub@ gmail.com

Montrose Woman’s Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse, 602 N. Nevada Ave., August-May. Bring lunch.

3rd Mondays | 11:30 a.m. | 970-9018743

SUPPORT GROUPS

HopeWest Bereavement Book Club members heal through discussions about death and grief from various literature at Delta Library, 211 W. 6th St.

3rd Thursday | 2-4 p.m. | 970-8749630 | deltalibraries.org

Caregivers Support Group meets at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave.

2nd & 4th Mondays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-240-3714

Caregiver Support Group

Montrose meets at US Bank.

1 & 3 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 970-275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Delta meets at Delta County Memorial Hospital, meeting room A.

1 p.m. | 1st & 3rd Fridays | 970275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Virtual meets on Zoom. For link, contact Laird@Family-Caregiver.org.

10:30-11:30 a.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970-275-2138

COVID-19 Grief Group meets at Touch of Care, 1100 E. Main St., Montrose.

2nd & Last Tuesday | 12 p.m. | 970-787-9988

Dementia Caregivers Delta meets at Crossroads Senior Living, 1380 Aspen Way. Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-5100724

Morningstar Therapy Dogs is a non-profit club promoting therapy dog programs and visits in Montrose. 2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-5969343 | morningstartherapydogs. weebly.com

SOS: Singles Over 65 is a gender-balanced club for single seniors! Must join online. meetup.com/montrose-singlesover-65

Uncompahgre Treasure Club

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

Dementia Caregivers Hotchkiss meets at Town Hall, 276 Main St. 2nd & 4th Wednesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724

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

Essential Tremor Support Group meets bimonthly at Montrose Regional Health’s conference room, 800 S. 3rd St. Call 405-205-9397

GriefShare is a safe place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief in this 13-week group that starts August 1 at Rosemont Baptist Church, 1598 E. Niagara Road, Montrose.

Tuesdays | 6-8 p.m. | 970-2494887

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Montrose Regional Health, 800 S. 3rd St.

Last Monday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970252-2996

Stroke Support Group meets at Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way, Montrose.

1 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970765-2210

meets at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose, 602 N. Nevada.

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

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

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way.

Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-7562210 | whafv.orgv ■

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

lunch.

9:30 a.m. | August 15 | $21

Walk + Dinner in Montrose

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

EDUCATION

Presentations are free. Call to reserve a seat.

Time Bank of the Rockies

Kate Burke explains time banking, a local way of volunteering and how it works at Time Bank of the Rockies.

1 p.m. | August 7

Roubideau Rim Wildlife Rescue

Brenda Miller, a licensed wildlife rehabber and founder of Roubideau Rim Wildlife Rescue, shares stories about the wildlife in her care.

1 p.m. | August 14

Benefits of All Points Transit

Public transportation can seem scary but it’s not! Learn about All Points Transit, including its fixed routes and dial-a-ride services.

1 p.m. | August 21

Cowboy Poetry

Enjoy cowboy poetry and western music in this family-friendly show featuring award-winning artists Peggy Malone and Terry Nash!

1 p.m. | August 28

TRIPS & TOURS

Most trips meet at the Senior Center. Get on the waiting list if a tour is full in case another is scheduled.

Hike: Ouray Ice Park

This easy 2.5-mile loop takes about 1½ hours to complete with a 485-foot elevation gain. Bring a sack lunch.

7:45 a.m. | August 10 | $20

Montrose Business Tours

Tour The Tortoise & The Hare and learn about this common-to-exotic pet shop, then head over to Geyser Systems and discover its hot portable shower that uses less than one gallon of water. Bring money for

Socialize and meet new friends while taking a leisurely stroll in Montrose (2 miles or less) and meeting for dinner (bring money). If the walk isn’t for you, you can just meet us at Trattoria Di Sofia for dinner.

4:30 p.m. | August 17 | $5

Ute Mountain Casino in Towaoc

Enjoy warm Southwestern hospitality, superb dining, casino action and sports betting thrills at Ute Mountain Casino! Bring money for gambling and lunch.

6:45 a.m. | August 29 | $40 (includes transportation and snack)

Pickin’ in the Park Paonia

Enjoy performances by Carsie Blanton, Jackson Emmer and Woodnote. Food and local beer and wine will be available for purchase.

3:45-10:30 p.m. | August 24 | $21

FITNESS

Tai Chi for Health & Energy

Tai Chi brings peace to the body, using controlled movements, weight transference, mental resistance and quietness of mind.

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

ART & MUSIC

New Horizons Band Info Meeting

This program provides an entry point to making music for 50+ adults with little to no prior music experience. Participants must provide their own instrument and supplies. Meet at the Field House for a free informational meeting that goes over rehearsal dates, times, costs, etc.

9:30 a.m. | August 30 | nhbandmontrose@gmail.com

Open Line Dancing

Learn line dancing steps with formal instruction.

3:30-4:30 p.m. (beginners), 4:30-

5:45 p.m. (improvers) | Mondays | $2

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

GAMES

Pinochle

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

Tuesday Needlers

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

FITNESS

Dance Fit

Burn energy, shake stress and show off your dance moves!

4:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pilates

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

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

Senior Circuit Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises.

9 a.m. | Monday through Friday

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa-style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre.

4:30 p.m. | Wednesdays

Healthy Body Strong Bones

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

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Body Blitz

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class.

9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m. Thursdays

Body Bar

Get an entire body workout using a weighted fitness bar.

6 a.m. | Wednesdays

POOL FITNESS

Aqua Movers

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

5:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pool Power

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas.

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

Body & Health

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

10:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength, designed for beginners.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

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

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Silver Sneakers Splash

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

8:30 a.m. | Mondays & Wednesdays

All Points Transit offers free fares in August

All Points Transit (APT) encourages Montrose and Delta County residents and visitors to ride transit to help keep Colorado’s air clean during the summer months when air pollution is at its highest by offering free trips through August 31. The effort is part of Colorado’s Zero Fare For Better Air, We’ll Get You There initiative, which was made possible by Colorado Senate Bill 22-180, the Ozone Season Transit Grant Program in partnership with the Colorado Energy Office. Call APT at 970-249-0128 for more information.

Free Family Caregiver Summit set for October 6

After a five-year absence, the Family Caregiver Summit is back and scheduled for 1-4:30 p.m. October 6 at the Montrose Pavilion. The event will be a half-day gathering

staged by the Caregiver Support Foundation and Region 10’s Area Agency on Aging with vendors and speakers who will be available to answer questions in a comfortable atmosphere where caregivers can learn and relax. Follow the event and keep up on developments at Family-Caregiver.org. The event is free. To register, go to Region10. net or call 970-249-2436.

Montrose Recreation District opens Flex Rec, collaborates with local chiropractor

FlexRec, Montrose’s newest fitness facility, is dedicated to advanced functional fitness. Located within the Colorado Outdoors campus at 1309 Mayfly Drive, Flex Rec offers functional and performance fitness options, as well as outdoor recreation programming and community meeting space. MRD has partnered with Movement Medicine, a chiropractic and physical rehabilitation

Valley Symphony announces winner of painted violin

Last month, the Valley Symphony Association announced the selection of Troy Raper as its new music director and orchestra conductor. Raper’s selection was the result of a year-long search that included input from the VSA search committee, musicians, board of directors and audience members. Each time audience members provided feedback, their names were entered into a drawing to win a beautiful painted violin donated by painter VSA Chorus member Kaitlynn Hurford. For inspiration, she used photographs from past performances along with colors and imagery from the VSA’s season 51 branding. Concertgoer Ben Larson is the lucky winner of the painted violin and the son of VSA cellist Tim Larson. Larson recently began attending VSA concerts to support his father, who joined the VSA last year. Larson plans to display the violin in his father’s music room, mostly to keep it out of reach of his energetic young son’s curious hands.

service focused on helping clients get back to enjoying the active life they crave. Dr. Don Funke uses sustainable and research-based methods to improve physical and mental resiliency for his clients.

Funke is also a trainer and fitness coach helping to run several of the MRD weekly fitness class offerings at Flex Rec. For details, call 970497-8590 or email donfunkedc@ gmail.com.

Basket Case Quilt Guild members Dale Bradley Call and Carlotta Gibson. Quilts are on display August 1 through October 20. For more information, visit delta libraries.org or call 970-874-9630.

Local quilters’

work

on display at Delta Library through August

Visit the Delta Library, 124 E. Sixth St., during business hours to view gorgeous, locally made quilts on display from Quilts of Valor and

Fellowship and fun at monthly Senior Connection in Delta Senior Connection is held at Fellowship Hall, 477 Meeker St. in Delta, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. This free event is open to all seniors. Each program includes games, puzzles, refreshments and conversation! Transportation is not provided. Contact Delta United Methodist Church at 970-874-9501 for more information.

Free True Grit Walking Tours in Ridgway

Every Friday through September 1, relive the exciting days in 1968 when Ridgway was transformed into Fort Smith, Arkansas, and John Wayne, Henry Hathaway, Robert Duval and Glen Campbell came for the filming of “True Grit.” Every Friday at 3 p.m. meet at the Hartwell Park gazebo in Ridgway, where a guide will escort you to downtown filming locations and share insights about the town’s film history and little known facts and anecdotes about the Duke. This tour was recognized by True West Magazine as Readers’ Choice for Best Historic Town Tour. For more information, call 469-682-9710.

Did you get the Income Qualified Senior Housing Income Tax Credit?

If you were (or your spouse was) 65 years of age or older at the end of 2022, you may qualify for this income tax credit. The credit is allowed to qualifying seniors who meet age and income requirements and who have not claimed a property tax exemption. To qualify, a taxpayer must satisfy all of the following requirements:

• They must be either a full-year or part-year Colorado resident for tax year 2022

• They must be 65 years or older at the end of 2022

• Their federal adjusted gross income for tax year 2022 must be $75,000 or less

• They must not have claimed a property tax exemption for tax year 2022 under section 39-3203 CRS

If you didn’t file Form 104CR on your 2022 taxes, there may still be assistance available. Contact your tax preparer with questions and to get more information.

Registration is open for Delta Health Blood Draws and Health Fair

Registration is open for the Delta Health Blood Draws and Health Fair happening on August 9-11 by going online to my.itstartswithme. com/HealthFair/1811523. Appointments are required, but walk-ins are welcome during the Health Fair on Friday, August 11. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted. Delta Health will not be able to bill insurance companies. Fasting for 12 hours is required for all health screens requiring blood draws. Participants are encouraged to drink plenty of water, one cup of black coffee is permitted, and medications can be taken as usual. This year, blood draws are being held from 6:30-10:30 a.m. in three locations:

• August 8 - Cedaredge Community Center, 140 NW 2nd St.

• August 9 - Heritage Hall in Hotchkiss, 403 S. 4th St.

• August 10 & 11 - Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 Palmer St., Delta

Find farm fresh produce at local farmers markets

Buy local at these markets, where the admission is free and the produce is fresh. There’s also homemade food, handmade art and hundreds of deals, steals and treasures.

Montrose Farmers Market at 11 S. Uncompahgre Ave.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Saturdays | valleyfoodpartnership.org | 970249-0705

Delta Farmers Market at Fifth & Meeker Streets.

8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Wednesdays & Saturdays | 970-640-7810

Cedaredge Farmers Market at Pioneer Town, 388 S. Grand Mesa Drive.

8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Sundays ■

OF THE Month Question

By Linda Munson-Haley

At what age were you the happiest?

Tina Hodson

“I consider now to be the happiest really because it’s consistent. I’m developing a good work/fun life balance, and have taken my Type A personality down to a C+. I don’t try to control everything because at the end of the day does it really matter? Nope!”

John

King

“Each decade has come with its own gifts. I guess if I were to choose, it would have been my 30s because I moved from Montrose to Durango, which was really a bold thing for me to do. I had never left the area where I grew up. I changed careers, went to college and made all kinds of friends in the process.”

Susan Chandler-Reed

“I’ve been fortunate to have a lifetime of happiness. I turned 70 this year and it’s hard to beat. I am lucky to have good health and a loving husband, children and extended family. I especially love being able to participate in my grandchildren’s lives. It’s wonderful to be free of the demands and stresses of running a business and to have time to enjoy life—to travel, to spend time with close friends and to hike/ski/bike in this beautiful place we call home.”

Joe Reichmann

“The year I turned 25 was one of the happiest. My son was born three weeks after my birthday. I ran my first marathon that year in Philadelphia. I was a First Lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserve and in great shape, and ran in the very first Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC in 1976. I had a fantastic job teaching school. The final stamp on a fantastic year was when Nixon resigned the presidency because I knew he would never get us out of Vietnam. What a year!”

ACROSS

1. Look ___, I’m Sadra Dee

5. Apply powder to oneself

9. Flying Pan 14. The Tower of Pisa does this

62. Followed

64. Supermodel Campbell

66. Small shell-shaped cake

68. Bowling lane button

69. Lows

70. Short letter

71. Doorway

72. Many 73. Flat sound DOWN

1. Jessica of “Dark Angel”

2. Rips

3. “Olympia” painter

4. “Bewitched” witch

5. City in W central Israel

6. Yes

7. Bottom of the barrel

8. PC storage medium

9. Nightclothes

10. Guido’s high note

11. Record

12. List ender

13. City near Sparks

18. Antipasto morsel

web or burial

29. Where the action is

31. Air-filled rubber hoop, become fatigued

32. Ballerina Pavlova

33. Frankenstein’s assistant

34. Mont Blanc, par exemple

35. Andean country

36. Allege as fact

38. Bank offerings

40. Matinee ___

44. Non-transparency

45. Letters, e.g.

46. Most tidy

47. Experiment

51. They’re out of this world

53. Punctuation mark

55. Miscellanies

56. Leases

57. Memo starter

58. Capital of Calvados, in NW France

59. Baseball’s “Walking Man” Eddie

61. London jail

63. Barely passing grades

the cloth

54. Mariner

57. Frosty

60. Thick-soled shoe

22. Deep sleep

25. Nicholas Gage book

27. Word that can succeed building,

65. Sea, to Cousteau

67. Scooby-___

CLASSES

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

FOR SALE

RETIRING: Selling doll molds and all supplies. Would take down payment and payment plan. 970-778-8075.

HOME SERVICES

ABSTRACT WINDOWS LLC, 970-3124717 Need your windows cleaned? give us a call or text. Residential and Commercial Window Cleaning. Serving Mesa County. Quality Work.

Reasonable Rates. Free Estimates.

Licensed and Insured. Senior and Veteran Discounts Available

HOME SERVICES

Tammy’s House Cleaning Services. House cleaning in your area. Very clean, honest, and reliable, have references. 970-314-2255.

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

REAL ESTATE

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

SERVICES

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES INC. Your needs Delivered. Join the many other Grand Junction area business owners who are utilizing our efficient restocking services. Rags, floor care, hand care, packing material, paper products, respiratory, gloves, eye protection, ear protections, and head gear, restocking all bathroom needs. Most everything you need for safety, cleaning and bathroom. Bi-weekly or Monthly restocking 970-434-9440

SERVICES

10 ACRES HANDYMAN SERVICES

Home Improvements, Remodeling, Fencing, Flooring,

SERVICES

SENIOR BEAUTY SPECIAL. First-time clients receive $10 off single service, $15 off cut and color packages. Regan’s Regal Beauty, 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction. Call Regan to schedule: 719-425-0543

HEALTH & WELLNESS

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR

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

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

BANK ON CLASSIFIEDS

BEACON Classifieds 970-243-8829, x102

The Local Senior Market is BOOMING!

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

A Little Help: Help older adults with home projects. Apply at alittlehelp. org/volunteering; call 970-404-1923.

Ariel Clinical Services: Be a host home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Call 970-245-1616.

Community Hospital: Support the hospital in varying positions. Contact codell@gjhosp.org or 970-644-3541.

Food Bank of the Rockies has volunteer shifts available. Contact foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer or 970-464-1138.

Grand Junction Visitor Center: Welcome guests to the Grand Junction area. Contact matthewh@gjcity.org or 970-256-4054.

Hilltop’s Senior Life Options: Help enrich the lives of senior residents. Apply at htop.org/volunteer or call 970-244-0659.

Lower Valley Heritage Room: Help preserve Fruita history. Call 970-8583868.

Master Gardeners: Teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. Apply at tra.extension.colostate.edu or call 970-244-1834.

Meals on Wheels: Deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. Call 970-298-9844.

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. View available positions and apply at mesacountyrsvp. org or call 970-243-9839.

Operation Interdependence: Hand write notes for deployed U.S. military men and women. Contact carley@ oidelivers.org or 970-523-4217.

Palisade Historical Society: Share Palisade history and work on committees. Call 970-464-2177.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society: Walk dogs, socialize cats, transport pets, help with events and more. Apply at rhhumanesociety.org/volunteer.

Montrose Library: Sort donated books and run book sales. Apply at montroselibrary.org/support-mrld or call 970-249-9656.

Golden Circle Seniors: Help seniors at the Montrose Senior Center. Call 970-252-4888.

Morningstar Therapy Dogs: Registered dog handlers and their pets visit nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and schools. Call 970-5969343 to learn more.

Museum of the Mountain West: Tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. Contact 970-240-3400.

Region 10 - RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions in Delta and Montrose counties. Contact jwalker@region10. net or 970-765-3147.

Region 10 - SHIP Help other seniors navigate Medicare. Training provided. Contact jwalker@region10.net or 970-765-3147.

Senior CommUnity Meals: Help sort and deliver meals to homebound seniors. Call 970-874-7661.

Sharing Ministries Food Bank: Greet clients, pick up/drop off food, stock shelves and help in the office and at events. Apply at sharingministries. com/help/volunteer or 970-240-8385.

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. Apply at timebankofthe rockies.com/membership.html or call 970-209-6886.

Valley Symphony Association: Support local musicians who bring classical music to life. Contact info@ valleysymphony.net or 970-765-8323.

Welcome Home Alliance: Support local veterans. See current needs at whafv.org/volunteer.html or call 970765-2210.

MONTROSE/DELTA MESA COUNTY

Hilltop’s Senior Daybreak is a unique day program that keeps seniors with memory loss safe and active while providing their caregivers the flexibility and support they need to care for their loved ones at home. We also offer valuable information and support groups specifically designed for those caring for someone affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s

THIS IS WHY WE WALK

Why buying American could hurt critical U.S. industries

Diversifying supply chains point to a more prosperous economic future

By Sally C. Pipes Representative Cathy McMorris

Rodgers, R-Wash., the chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, recently warned that the U.S. is “dangerously dependent” on Chinese supply chains, especially for the raw materials used to make medicines.

Her statement reflects the genuine worries of industry experts and ordinary Americans. If drug manufacturers were unable to secure sufficient quantities of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the resulting medicine shortages could prove lethal.

Too often, however, concerns about the resilience of international supply chains devolve into mandates that companies “buy American.” Such mandates are infeasible in the market for active pharmaceutical ingredients and they won’t actually prevent the supply chain disruptions that McMorris Rodgers rightly worries about.

By contrast, market forces and international diversification are the most effective ways to ensure we have the inputs we need to manufacture advanced pharmaceuticals.

China’s hold on the market for active pharmaceutical ingredients tends to be overstated. As of 2021, 13% of API manufacturing facilities supplying the U.S. market were located in China.

Of course, cultivating suppliers outside China may be wise. The Chinese government’s decision to close much of the economy in response to COVID-19 proved that we may not be able to count on manufacturers in China for crucial inputs in the future.

But that’s an argument for further diversification, not self-sufficiency in the market for APIs. If

a “buy American” policy led to a single domestic supplier for certain inputs, the market for finished pharmaceuticals would remain highly vulnerable. A natural disaster such as a hurricane could take down all production. So could a terrorist attack.

Additionally, prices that Americans pay for drugs could increase. Manufacturers source many APIs from overseas facilities because production is cheaper there.

Reshoring production to the U.S. would raise their costs and they’d pass those cost increases onto American consumers.

Consider that U.S.-produced APIs account for just 10% of the pharmaceutical ingredients consumed in the U.S. but 53% of total spending on APIs in this country.

That’s not just because manufacturing is more expensive here. It’s because American producers are more technologically advanced than their foreign peers and focus on creating the most complex APIs.

Such high value-added manufacturing could be at risk under “buy American” mandates, as the makers of APIs retool to create all the inputs U.S. drug makers need. The upshot would be higher prices, potential shortages of key ingredients, and a much more fragile pharmaceutical market.

Leveraging the power of market forces by diversifying suppliers can strengthen supply chains and save Americans money on drugs, not to mention other products. It’s this diversification, not the simplistic sloganeering of “buy American,” that offers the best path forward. ■

This piece originally ran in The Spokesman-Review.