January 2023 - BEACON Senior News

Wishing you and yours all the best in 2023!

Resolve to Prioritize Your Preventive Care in 2023

It’s time to take advantage of your new comprehensive Medicare Advantage plan benefits! Routine exams and preventive screenings are the best way to discover health issues early and get the care you need. Make your checklist for good health today and schedule these services to make the most of your plan:

Eye exam

Dental exam

Annual wellness exam 

Recommended preventive screenings, including those for breast, colon, and prostate cancers

Update for Shingles Vaccine Coverage

Stay current on your recommended vaccines! Beginning in 2023, the two-dose series of the Shingles vaccination will no longer require a copay. Flu and pneumonia vaccines continue to be covered at 100%.

Mark Your Calendars for an Introduction to Medicare

Join us at the Medicare Resource Center, located in the Doc Shores House, to learn more about Original Medicare benefits, how supplemental coverage can help with the out-of-pocket costs of Original Medicare, and Medicare Advantage plan options.

Introduction to Medicare Meeting Wednesday, 1/11 at 1:11 p.m.

Space is limited, so RSVP today by calling 970-243-3100. A salesperson will be present with information and applications.

Thank you for your business and referrals — we truly appreciate you!

MedicareResourceCenter.com is a non-government resource privately owned and operated by Benefits Life, Inc. MedicareResourceCenter.com is not associated with or endorsed by Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or any other government agency. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your plan options.

Joe Barrows Sales Director

Christine Bogott MHB Group Martin DeBoer, Sr. Caprock Insurance Agency

Nancy Bartlett First Choice Insurance Broker

Nat Bertrami N I Bertrami Insurance Agency David Shoemaker

IN THIS ISSUE

Publisher

8

COVER STORY

Is Curling the New Pickleball? Pickleball may be the most talkedabout sport for the over 50 crowd but curling gives seniors another way to stay active, especially during the winter 10 Art for Lifelong Learning Local artists Norm and Diane Saulnier learned their art from a young age— and they’re not done yet

Recipe: Creamy Spinach, Mushroom & Lasagna Soup Make your dollars stretch further at the grocery store with this hearty soup made with versatile ingredients

26

I Already Broke My Resolutions and I’m Proud of It! My win-win strategy to starting off the new year on the right foot

22 A Worm’s Eye View of Composting Learn how to take your composting to the next level at Bryan Reed’s upcoming library presentation BEACON

Enter

Soak Up the Sun in South Padre Island, Texas

Warm winter fun is just a seashell’s throw away from Mexico

Following

obsolete technology advice can lead to identity theft, financial loss and bigger issues

Money Just

Photo by Cloie Sandlin

BEACON wins BIG in Las Vegas with national awards

By Cloie Sandlin

Christmas came early for all of us at BEACON Senior News when our staff brought home more than a dozen national awards from the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA) national convention in Las Vegas.

In addition to learning from other senior publications across the country, the highlight of this annual convention is the awards banquet, where senior publications big and small vie for top honors. Publications are independently judged on the quality of their written content, editing, design, photography and advertising copy by the prestigious Missouri School of Journalism. The best are then commended for their efforts with awards.

Here are the awards we brought home from this year’s competition:

FEATURE WRITING

3rd Place

“Can You Spare a Kidney?” by Jan Weeks (April 2022)

TOPICAL ISSUE

2nd Place

“Recovering from Long COVID” by Melinda Mawdsley (March 2022)

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

2nd Place

Judge’s comments: BEACON Senior News provides plenty of practical and cultural touchstones for living well in Colorado. The features are rich in storytelling (living organ donors, the adventures of a motocross pro among them) and timely information (traveling on a small budget, getting the most out of your cellphone). Covers are bold, the layout is fresh and festive, and the overall impression is upbeat and cheerful.

PROFILE

1st Place

“From Makeup to Mud” by Lauren Berg (June 2022)

HOW-TO FEATURE

3rd Place

“Origami in Everyday Life” by Jan Weeks (March 2022)

ANNUAL RESOURCE GUIDE

(EDITORIAL)

1st Place

The BEACON Guide, 2022

FRONT COVER

PHOTO

2nd Place

“Suck it Up,

Many other works were nominated or received honorable mention. Check them out at www. BeaconSeniorNews.com.

Thank you to our advertisers who faithfully support us and our gifted writers and staff who carry out our mission every single month by crafting an entertaining and inspiring resource for Western Colorado seniors.

Above

JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING TEAM OF CONTRIBUTORS!

We're always looking for writers, reporters and photographers to help us tell the stories of Western Slope seniors.

We welcome articles where writers share their experiences and expertise, struggles, advice and successes all with clear takeaways that help our readers age well. Questions? Email us!

Contact@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Where’s my reset button?

The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but for me, they’re way too busy! Surprisingly, this has little to do with holiday shopping or putting up the tree, although these are just “a few more” tasks I end up adding to my overwhelming to-do list.

Let me be clear: I’m no Grinch. I actually love the holidays. But for some reason this year, January just can’t come soon enough.

By the time you read this article, 2023 will have arrived (or it will shortly). When it comes to new year’s resolutions, I believe that any day is just as good as the beginning of a new year to start fresh and reset. I believe if you want to make changes in your life, there’s no sense in waiting until later if you can—and want to— make them happen now.

Maybe this is why my to-do list is so long. There are a lot of changes I want to see happen right now.

I know I’m not the only one who feels like this. And if you’re like me, you also know that eventually, you will do all of the things you set out to do, but it’s important to take some time to reset and conquer your to-dos one at a time and take care of yourself in the process because how you choose to treat yourself over the next year—or the next 10 years—is up to you.

READY TO SHAKE THINGS UP IN 2023?

Do you yearn for knowledge and novel experiences now or in the new year? Then read on, because this issue contains stories that are sure to inspire you!

Amy Laundrie has more to add to the topic of giving ourselves priority on page 17. “Take care of yourself; you can’t pour from an empty cup” is her motto for 2023. Caregivers, take note of this advice, and check out our new monthly Caregiver Support column on page 13 for help with your caregiving challenges.

Amy also emphasized that you don’t have

to join a gym to prioritize your health. Take up an activity you’ll learn from and enjoy, such as karate, pickleball or curling!

Speaking of the latter, I hope this month’s cover story inspires you to give this growing sport a try at one of the upcoming Learn to Curl classes in January! As part of my unofficial new year’s resolution to give myself priority, maybe I’ll see you there!

GET YOUR 2023 BEACON GUIDE!

Tucked inside this January issue, readers will find a copy of the 2023 BEACON Guide, our annual resource directory and guide to aging well. In addition to hundreds of local, state and national resources and hard-to-find phone numbers, this trusted guide—available in Mesa, Montrose and Delta counties—features insightful and informative articles to help with the transitions that you or a loved one may be going through.

If you haven’t received your guide or want to request multiple copies, call us at 970-2438829.

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

Did you vote for the BEACON Best? If so, we may be contacting you in the coming weeks if you won a $50 gift card to one of your favorite businesses or hot spots on the Western Slope.

Look for your name in next month’s BEACON, along with those local businesses that BEACON readers think are top notch.

HOW CAN WE DO BETTER IN 2023?

As I take stock of the 2022 issues with 2023 stretching before me, I feel enormous appreciation for all the seniors who have written for us and graced the pages of the BEACON this year. Thank you for reading and supporting us!

As we look at planning stories in the new year, I’d love to hear from you! What do you love most about the BEACON? What are your favorite stories? What would you like to see more of? Let me know at Cloie@Beacon SeniorNews.com ■

LETTERS

From Readers

I’m renewing my subscription. I don’t know when it is up as it was a gift to me. I love the BEACON. Keep up the good work.

- Kathy W., Cedaredge

I enjoy reading the BEACON. I pick it up when I am in town and save them and then I share those jokes with people and get them laughing.

- Jeanne S., Rangely

Thank you so much for all you’ve done for the Valley Symphony Association this year. Establishing a relationship with the BEACON was a great move for us.

- Stacy Ryan, Director of Communications & Development

I absolutely love the BEACON from cover to cover!

- Caryle S.

I very much enjoy your magazine! I know it publishes every month, but I’m wondering WHEN in the month is it available for online viewing?

- Nancy P.

Cloie: Thanks for reading, Nancy! The print edition is usually out before the first of the month, so typically, the issue will be online by the last Monday (or first Monday of some months). The best way to be notified is by signing up for our eblasts at our website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com/pages/eblasts

“Death doulas” (December)

Thank you for the great article on end-of-life doulas. [We’re] all passionate about assisting the community with this sacred work.

- Mary Anne Holmes, Aistriu End of Life Doula

“Unintended

Hero” (November)

I just wanted you to know that I picked up a copy of the November issue today. The article looked great, as did the whole magazine. Nice job! And kudos to Will Sanborn for putting it together.

- Becky Van Vleet

We want to hear from you!

Seniors give curling a whirl to stay active during the winter months

By Cloie Sandlin

ickleball may be the most talked-about sport for the over-50 crowd, but if racket sports aren’t your thing, there’s another game that can keep you active and provide long-term enjoyment no matter your age or athletic ability.

Curling is a moderately intense sport that continues to gain popularity. Though the U.S. is hardly new to curling, the men’s gold medal win at the 2018 Winter Olympics caught the attention of Americans young and old. It’s fame carried into the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and has exploded into clubs of curling enthusiasts in countries and cities across the world.

Deb Menger first saw the game demonstrated in the 1988 Olympics, even though it didn’t become an official Olympic sport until a decade later.

“I was a big fan. I watched and studied the game, but I didn’t learn how to play it until I took my first Learn to Curl class in Telluride when I was 60,” said Deb, 68.

Now the retired school librarian streams Canadian curling every weekend and plays in the leagues she spearheads at River City Sportplex in Grand Junction. She also teaches the rink’s Learn to Curl classes, hoping to entice as many people as possible to start playing.

PLAY THE GAME

Traditional curling is played with two four-player teams taking turns sliding heavy granite stones towards a circular target at each end of the play area. Points are scored based on where the stones land in proximity to the target, called the “house.” After eight rounds (called “ends”), the team with the most points wins.

Unlike skating or hockey, curling isn’t played on smooth ice—or skates. The surface has little bumps made from frozen water droplets (a technique called “pebbling”), which reduces friction and creates a microlayer of water when the stone runs across it.

To keep from slipping on the ice, players wear rubber slippers over their regular footwear, or may invest in curling shoes. Other than wearing adequately warm, loose-fitting clothing, no special attire is required!

Once the stone is delivered out of the hack—a foothold players use to push off from—two sweepers follow the stone down the ice, using a “broom” to warm up the ice to help the stone travel farther and straighter toward the house.

“The strategy behind this game is amazing,” said Deb. “There is some physical activity but it’s not hard on the body and you’re not

running, which makes it great for everybody, especially seniors.”

Curling was introduced locally when the new owners took over the former Glacier Ice Arena and opened River City in October 2021. Deb was the driving force behind bringing the sport to Grand Junction, volunteering her time to get the leagues up and running and teaching the rules of the game to interested curlers and staff.

“The timing was perfect because of the Olympics. There was a lot more focus on curl-

Curlers from left: Jim Hennings, Deb Menger, Lynn Ashton, Dave Ash, Connie Ash and Frank Hering

Lynn Ashton prepares to launch a stone during a curling game at River City Sportplex in Grand Junction.

ing because the U.S. team was pretty good,” said Dave Ash, who joined the first curling league in January 2022 with his wife Connie.

They’ve played in every league since. Be tween curling and hockey, Dave is at the rink two or three times a week.

“It’s part of my wellness plan,” the 61-yearold Michigan native said.

Lynn and Dan Ashton are also veterans of the local league. Neither of them had curled prior to taking Deb’s class, but they’ve come a long way since. Just a few weeks ago, their team beat Deb’s in the bonspiel—the fall league’s championship game.

“Every time you get out there, you improve your skill just a little,” said Lynn, 65. “We’re all learning at the same time and it’s fun to watch everyone’s technique.”

CHESS ON ICE

Some people say that curling is like shuffleboard, only bigger and on ice. Others say it’s like chess because of the mental precision and concentration involved.

Teams must work together and constantly re-evaluate their strategy depending on the playability of the ice, as it can change from week to week. Plus, the local rink isn’t a dedicated curling lane since it’s used for hockey, too.

Since the goal is to get the stone as close to the house as possible, teams can push their competitors’ stones out of the way or set up a screen of stones to protect one of their own that’s already in the house.

Throwing the stone is another important aspect of game strategy. When Olympic curlers prepare to launch a stone, they get low to the

ground and push off the hack.

“It’s challenging for me to improve my performance coming out of the hack,” said Lynn. “Sometimes you have to kind of make up for it by putting more weight behind the stone, which means you lose some of your control.”

Deb learned to throw a stone the traditional way, but she switched to using a stick when the arthritis in her ankle started acting up. While stick curling isn’t approved for the Olympics, it’s an alternative delivery method for players who have trouble squatting down or standing back up. A stick can even be used by players in wheelchairs.

Curling is easy to learn. Lynn said that after a couple of Learn to Curl classes, players will be ready to sign up for the league.

“You will not embarrass yourself no matter your skill level and nobody’s going to give you a hard time. We help each other,” she said.

The sport is contactless, said Tim Menger, 71, so generally, you don’t have to worry about other players throwing you off balance.

“It’s easier for an older person to do than say, pickleball,” said Deb. “To me, pickleball is hard on the knees and ankles.”

THE NEW PICKLEBALL?

While curling can be just as fun, Dave doesn’t think it will take off like pickleball.

For one, play time is limited as the rink is shared with several other sports, classes and leagues, not to mention the time it takes to prepare the ice before each game.

Although the rink supplies the equipment, curling gear is also fairly expensive. But if you’re looking for personal gear like curling shoes, you can find used pairs online pretty cheaply.

In the local league’s short history, Deb realized that the winter league is usually the most in demand because as the weather turns colder, more people are looking for ways to stay active indoors.

For many players, the sport is a family affair. Deb and Tim’s son and daughter-in-law play in the league, and 71-year-old Jim Hennings serves as an alternate when his daughter or someone in her family of four can’t play. Lynn and Dan hope that their daughter and family will sign up for the winter league which starts January 22.

“There’s no barrier between ages or generations when you all have a common interest,” said Dave. “How many other sports are like that?” ■

LEARN TO CURL CLASSES

For just $15, see how fun curling can be in this interactive class at River City Sportplex, 2515 Riverside Pkwy. in Grand Junction. Learn the rules, put them into practice and even play a few ends, then sign up for the league!

• January 8 from 5-7 p.m.

• January 15 from 5-7 p.m.

WINTER LEAGUE BEGINS JANUARY 22

The winter league plays Sundays from 5-7 p.m. with the bonspiel (championship) on March 12. Cost is $125.

To learn more or to sign up for the league, call Menger at 970-931-2242 or email Lisa Larson at llarson@rivercitysportplex.com

Jim Hennings and his grandson Jerry follow the stone down the ice, preparing to sweep.

Deb Menger poses with curling teammate Dave Ash.

Connie Ash delivers a stone using a stick, an alternative method for some players.

By Dianna Barnett

Art has been a lifelong learning experience for Diane and Norm Saulnier. Both have been able to pursue their love of painting, filling their home with all sorts of works.

Norm, now 93, began painting in his early childhood.

“Weren’t we all given those little water color sets by our parents?” he shared, laughing.

His first painting at age 12 was his rendition of a French artist’s church scene.

Norm was born into a family of hobby artists. His mother, grandmother and three brothers all painted.

“I remember Mother painted much like Grandma Moses—she told a story with paints,” he said. “She would paint things from her childhood and had art shows in Massachusetts.”

Similarly, Diane, 80, liked art as a child.

“I was babysitting on Cape Cod and went into an art store at age 16 and bought a set of pastels. Then I progressed to oils,” she said. “I sat on the floor and put my canvas on a chair to paint.”

Both Norm and Diane spent many years admiring the East Coast; however, the Grand Valley called to the Saulniers after a trip west one year. They fell in love with the area and eventually moved here.

“New England winters can get pretty hefty with a lot of snow

is a learninglifelongexperience

shoveling,” said Norm. “We’ve been here for 31 years and it’s the best move we’ve ever made.”

The couple first settled in Loma and purchased a small home with some land surrounded by hills and trees. Norm converted a horse shed into an art studio and went to work.

“We became serious about our art and really started to learn,” said Diane.

DIFFERENT STROKES

Diane searched for a group she could be a part of and started with the Brush and Palette Club. It was there she met artist Sarah Oakley.

“Sarah asked me when I was going to bring some of my greeting cards to her gallery,” she said.

Diane displayed her work first

with Oakley at her gallery, then in Colorado Canyons Gallery and several Fruita galleries that have since come and gone. Currently, her cards are available at The Art Center and the Craig Gallery. Both Saulniers have work hanging in Western Valley Family Practice and Family Health West.

The couple’s painting styles are quite different. Norm paints in oils and watercolor. Subjects vary from landscapes to pets to people in a more realistic style.

He often paints from photographs; he recreated Dorothea Lange’s “Country Store on a Dirt Road” in oils. Although he paints prolifically, he has never been paid for one of his pieces until recently. He is currently working on some

commissioned pieces.

Also from more traditional beginnings, Diane started with tole painting—a folk art style that uses tin and utensils as a painting medium, then moved on to canvas before progressing to a cold wax medium.

Diane currently does acrylic pours to create a more free, unique piece of work.

“I painted from photos at first, but I lost interest because I was just creating another version of the photographs,” she explained. “I was ready to try something different.”

She said acrylic pours are a great creative opportunity for people who would like to paint but say they have no talent. They can end up with a great piece without worrying about details.

A COMMUNITY OF ARTISTS

Diane loves sharing her talent with others. She has taught classes at Michael’s and The Art Center and also some from her home. For several years, she has hosted a group of women who gather to share their work, learn new techniques and support one another.

Her hand-painted cards also delight people everywhere.

“In 2021, I sent 153 Christmas cards,” said Diane, “and each one was an original.”

COVID threw a kink into communal painting and classes since creatives had to stay home and pursue their work alone. Diane and

Norm's painting of West Brookfield, Massachusetts, where he spent a lot of time as a teenager.

Diane's “North Georgia”

Norm were no exception.

Diane worked in her converted garage studio and Norm painted on the dining room table.

“It was really hard not to be able to meet with my group each week,” said Diane.

Norm painted 1,200 watercolor paintings during that time.

“We continued painting to preserve our sanity,” he said.

Now the couple is seeking new creative endeavors. Norm builds ship models. And Diane is trying out a new Japanese pen she uses with ink to make floral designs— one of her favorite subjects. They are thrilled that their granddaughters love creating art as much as they do.

“It’s just like my dad used to say: If you’re bored, pick up a pencil and draw a picture!” said Norm.

To learn more about their work, contact Diane at dbsaulnier@gmail.

com ■

At Mobility Driven, we make every attempt to help our customers regain their independence and selfreliance.

When you come to Mobility Driven, you become part of our community and are treated like family. We are devoted to providing the highest quality service in a personalized manner. We understand that in the adaptive mobility industry, one size does not fit all. We will work with you to find the best solution to allow you to stay mobile and independent.

We sell, install and service mobility products from the industry’s leading manufacturers to provide full accessibility for your vehicle, home and toys, such as UTVs, camper vans and RVs. You can have peace of mind knowing that you are using industry-certified technicians who carry several additional factory and vendor certifications; allowing us to maintain your products and vehicles under warranty and continue their factory-approved status.

At Mobility Driven, we advocate for you. There are multiple ways to find financial support when it comes to obtaining mobility equipment. Our team can connect you to organizations that can help you get the assistance and support you need for mobility issues.

Left: Diane works in her converted garage studio. Right: Norm with a stack of COVID-era paintings. He painted more than 1,200 watercolors during the pandemic lockdown

Robert Dittmer President

Kaydee Burford Office Manager

Don Green Fabricator

Diane's “Lake Lanier”

Grand

Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks, MS, RD, on behalf of the Mushroom Council

Servings: 4 Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

8 ounces mushrooms, such as white button, crimini or portabella, sliced

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

Directions

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 tablespoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 bay leaf

3 cups vegetable broth

6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces

1/2 cup heavy cream

5 ounces fresh baby spinach

1 cup whole milk ricotta

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

Heat large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic, onion and mushrooms. Cook 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions and mushrooms soften.

Add marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, oregano, pepper, bay leaf and broth. Bring to boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer. Add lasagna noodles and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 15 minutes.

Remove from heat and remove bay leaf. Stir in heavy cream and spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes.

Divide between bowls and top each with dollop of ricotta and sprinkle of mozzarella. ■

See more recipes at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Caregiver Support

Laird Landon cared for his wife Marilyn for 10 years as she battled a rare form of dementia. From that experience came Laird’s new purpose: helping caregivers with support groups, writing and speaking as chair of the Caregiver Support Foundation. Being a caregiver has many challenges, and we hope that this new column can help. If you have a question about caregiving, email Laird in care of the BEACON or email him at Laird@FamilyCaregiver.org.

Dear Laird: I’m starting to feel fearful of my husband’s driving. He has always been the one to drive, so when I mention my concerns or ask him to let me drive, it always starts a quarrel. Do you have any solutions?

Laird: The loss of a patient’s driving skill is a big deal to everyone involved. The patient can get lost, be involved in an accident and perhaps hurt himself or someone else.

The hard part is that driving is also a part of his self-worth—it is the flip side of being a teenager and becoming independent. For some couples, it’s a division of labor. So, when we look to change that balance, your roles are threatened: You become a parent and he loses the position of keeping you safe.

In some cases, he might be able to continue to drive for a while. Going to the store (take care about parking), or common routes he knows well might be okay. Do avoid freeways and other high-traffic volume routes. Negotiating rules to limit danger may keep you safe and let him continue to drive for a bit longer.

If you feel like you really do need to make a change, ask for

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

your doctor to help. The doctor’s authority may be enough to help him cope with losing the keys to the car. If not, a doctor can prescribe an evaluation by a state certified driving instructor. From that person, you may both learn new ways to be safe behind the wheel. If, however, your husband’s evaluation is unacceptable, he may lose his license, but that is better than someone getting hurt or losing their life.

Visit www.family-caregiver. org for more support with your caregiving challenges. ■

BY DR. LAIRD LANDON, PH.D. Send your questions to Laird in care of the BEACON, or email him at Laird@Family-Caregiver.org

Discover a tranquil neighborhood all your own.

Carefree retirement living.

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, biweekly 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.

6 resources to look into before rehoming your pet

For many pet owners, recent years have come with unexpected hurdles—difficulty finding affordable pet-friendly housing, financial struggles, job losses and other crises that can result in beloved pets being rehomed out of necessity. If you are at risk of separation from your pet for any reason, know that there are local resources that can help.

1.Pet Pantry. When hard times hit and pet food and supplies don’t fit in the budget, Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s Pet Pantry keeps your pet fed and cared for. The Pet Pantry is available at Roice-Hurst’s Grand Junction and Delta locations, supplied by generous in-kind donors and the Colorado Pet Pantry.

2. Almost Home. Catholic Outreach has many programs to help get people back on their feet, including financial aid to halt evictions and restore utilities, human food and housing. If you are at risk of losing your pet because your housing situation isn’t pet friendly, see the Almost Home guide at catholic outreach.org/our-programs. This guide lists available rentals in the area and includes information about pet-friendliness and monthly costs.

3. Crisis Boarding Program. If a personal crisis threatens to permanently separate you and your pet and you need temporary pet care while finding a more stable situation, Roice-Hurst’s crisis boarding program covers up to 30 days of pet boarding at a local facility.

4. Homeward Hounds. Homeward Hounds, a collaboration with HomewardBound of the Grand Valley, allows houseless pet owners to sleep

PET PERSPECTIVE

BYJENNA KRETSCHMAN

securely in a private room with their pets, which is something no other homeless shelter in the country accommodates. Nine pet-friendly climate-controlled pallet shelters are available at HomewardBound’s North Avenue location in Grand Junction.

5. Pet Behavior Counseling. When your pet’s behavior strains your bond with them, Roice-Hurst offers pet behavior counseling to troubleshoot a variety of behavior challenges in dogs and cats.

6. Low-Cost Vaccination Clinics and Spay/Neuter Vouchers

Ensuring your pet is medically up-to-date not only protects them from potentially fatal conditions, but it can allow you and your pet to remain united if you lose housing or becoming hospitalized. Pet boarding facilities require pets to be fully vaccinated. If your pet becomes lost, a microchip is the most reliable and permanent form of identification to help them make it home safely. Roice-Hurst offers monthly low-cost pet vaccination and microchip clinics, as well as spay/neuter vouchers for cats and dogs. Learn more at www.rhhumanesociety.org or call 970-434-7337. ■

Jenna Kretschman is Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s Communications Coordinator. Contact her at jenna@rhhumanesociety.org

By Cloie Sandlin

Happy New Year from the BEACON! To help you start the year off right, we’ve come out with our 2023 BEACON Guide, your guide to aging well in Western Colorado.

The BEACON Guide— a trusted resource directory for area seniors, their families and those who assist them—includes hundreds of local, state and national resources and hard-to-find phone numbers. The guide also features informative articles to help you with the life transitions that you or a loved one may be going through.

From finding leisure activities to planning your retirement, and from home health care to moving to an assisted living facility, The BEACON Guide helps you navigate the continuum of care in Mesa, Montrose and Delta counties. The guide also includes listings for clubs, genealogy resources, medical providers, pet shelters, support groups, volunteer opportunities and more.

We publish two editions of the guide: one for Mesa County and another for Montrose & Delta counties. Though geared towards seniors, many households keep The BEACON Guide on hand throughout the year.

As our community grows, so does the guide. New resources are added each year. We take great care in making sure that every listing is accurate and up to date by personally calling and verifying them year after year.

SEARCH RESOURCES

ONLINE

Our digital version of The BEACON Guide is more robust than ever. Visit our website at www.Beacon SeniorNews.com to explore vir-

tual editions of the guide in both counties. Each virtual edition can be turned page by page with a click of the mouse.

You can also search for businesses in our online directory at www. BeaconSeniorNews.com/businesses

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS

Every month (starting in February) the BEACON highlights a local club or organization listed in The BEACON Guide so that readers can connect with other seniors in the community. You can also read these specialized features at www. BeaconSeniorNews.com

GET YOUR FREE COPIES

If you didn’t find your 2023 BEACON Guide tucked in the pages of this issue or the December issue of the BEACON, or if you’d like to request additional copies, call us at 970-243-8829 and we will mail them to you.

We distribute The BEACON Guide at numerous doctors’ offices, senior centers, hospitals and more throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. Businesses and organizations are able to call and request them in bulk and we will personally deliver them. ■

Got the winter blues?

5 possible solutions for Seasonal Affective Disorder

In certain parts of the world, cold and dreary winters cause a mood disorder called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of depression is related to changes in seasons and begins and ends at about the same time every year. Signs and symptoms of SAD may include low energy, an uptick in headaches or other aches and pains, difficulty sleeping, feelings of anxiety or annoyance, hopelessness, thoughts about self-harm or suicide and loss of interest in going places or meeting people.

The winter blues impacts over 10 million people in the U.S., and 80% of those are women. Researchers believe there is a hormonal component to the condition.

There is a strong correlation between reduced sunlight and circadian rhythm alterations. Melatonin levels can also increase while cortisol decreases.

Certain risk factors increase the incidence of SAD depending on where you live. People who live closer to the equator seem to do better than those who live in places with less sunlight.

If you suffer from SAD, here are five supplements that may help relieve symptoms.

1. St. John’s wort . This plant has been used to treat mild to moderate depression. However, results are inconsistent and it interacts with many medications. Talk to your doctor to make sure it won't cause a reaction.

2. Vitamin B12. Though vitamin B12 doesn’t appear to have clear results in treating symptoms of SAD, studies show that taking the supplement alleviates depression in some people with low B12.

3. Vitamin D. Taking a higher dose of vitamin D has shown to relieve depression among other SAD symptoms. But again, results are inconsistent.

4. Prescribed antidepressants. Taking prescribed antidepressants can help with depression and other mood troubles. Talk to your doctor about which medication would be most helpful for you.

5. Hormone replacement. Hormone replacement therapy, specifically progesterone or cortisol, may help women with SAD. Talk

with your doctor about which type is best and how long the therapy should last. Restoring hormones must be done by a specialist. This may require you to have some baseline testing—either blood, saliva or urine. If your doctor recommends hormone testing, you can purchase a DUTCH test kit and do it at home, but don’t try to replenish them on your own.

Some of us do not have the means to travel just to get some sun during winter. If you have SAD, try some of these potential solutions and make sure you see a licensed, qualified professional.

Don’t go it alone! Share what you are feeling with your family members or friends so they can support you. And keep in mind one very important thing: SAD goes away. ■

Give yourself priority in the new year

By Amy Laundrie

As a teen, my father used to challenge me to do 50 pus-ups. I worked up to it and eventually did that many. I recall a new boyfriend meeting my parents for the first time and my dad bragging about my ability to do push-ups. He even had me demonstrate. I don’t recall my boyfriend’s reaction, only my dad’s face all lit up.

I tried to do push-ups earlier this fall and failed miserably. Needing some motivation, I joined a gym and even participated in a couple of personal training sessions. With an instructor watching my form and cheering me on, bringing back memories of my youth, I persevered. I’ve increased my strength. It could happen for you, too.

2023 is the year to give ourselves priority, beginning with caring for our health. Exercise is not only beneficial for our physical health, but our mental health, too, giving us an endorphin rush needed on these short, cold days. It’s also a great way to work out frustrations or stress.

During some of the most stressful years of teaching, I joined a karate studio. I worried the commitment was just going to compound my stress level, but building strength, learning the moves and how to maintain focus saved my sanity.

A woman I know who is a caregiver said her time at the gym was a healthy release—something she does for herself.

“My gym is wonderful. I’m able to strengthen my muscles and my outlook. I can feel myself relaxing, laughing and having fun. I need that as much as physical fitness,” she said.

I also met a young mother who felt her short time away from her child made her a better mom. The

quote “Take care of yourself; you can’t pour from an empty cup” is an excellent motto.

Let’s consider a new year’s challenge in which we give ourselves priority with a regular exercise program. If going to a gym isn’t an option, you can still prioritize your health with these alternatives.

1. Form a neighborhood group and work out in someone’s home. Being accountable to another person will keep you both motivated.

2. Join one of the growing pickleball (or curling) groups that meet indoors and have such a great time you don’t realize you’re exercising. Also check out classes for yoga, Zumba or strength building.

3. Explore online options (YouTube has a ton) and choose from a multitude of exercise suggestions. Or simply download an app such as “7 Minute Fitness Challenge” and set a weekly schedule. In just seven minutes you can get in a great workout.

4. Make it fun. Walk or jog on the treadmill while watching TV or prep for healthy meals while listening to your favorite music or a compelling podcast.

It takes an average of 66 days to form a habit. If we begin an exercise routine by January 1, it will become ingrained in us before the start of spring. By then I just might be back to pumping out those push-ups. Consider giving yourself a gift in the new year. Prioritize your health. ■

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Family Health West was built from the ground up by our community – settled with health and prosperity in mind. Today, we look forward to the future, approaching new horizons in healthcare while taking forward that same spirit of dreaming to create a beautiful tomorrow we all believe is possible.

BIRTHDAY GIFT

Submitted by Jem & Mickey Neal

My husband wanted one of those big screen TVs for his birthday, so I just moved his chair closer to the one we have already.

SNOW STORM

Submitted by Ben Kuckel

A wealthy widow marries a much younger man who isn’t very bright.

During the first winter together, he hears the weather station report: “There’s a huge storm on the way tonight. We expect 8-10 inches of snow. To expedite snow plowing operations, please park your car on the odd-numbered side of the street.” The man goes out and moves the car.

A few days later, another storm is approaching. This time, the weather station reports: “We

expect about 12 inches of snow. To expedite snow plowing operations, please park your car on the evennumbered side of the street.”

Again, the man goes out and moves the car.

Two days later, the area is expecting blizzard conditions. “We expect very high winds and a lot of snow tonight and into tomorrow morning. To expedite snow plowing operations, please park on....”

Then the electricity goes out.

The man says to his wife, "Honey, now how are we going to find out which side to park on?”

She replied, "Why don't you just leave it in the garage this time?"

ANSWERED PRAYERS

Submitted by Jane Diamond

The Wednesday night church service coincided with the last day of

hunting season.

During the service, the pastor asked who had bagged a deer. No one raised a hand.

Puzzled, the pastor said, “I don't get it. Last week many of you said you wouldn't be at church tonight because of hunting season. I had the whole congregation pray for your deer.”

One hunter said, “Well, preacher, it worked. They're all safe.”

COWBOY IN TOWN

Submitted by Ollie Greer

A cowboy rode into town and stopped at the saloon for a drink. Unfortunately, the locals had a habit of picking on strangers so when he finished his drink, he found his horse had been stolen. He went back into the bar, handily flipped his gun into the air, caught it above his head without even looking and fired a shot into the ceiling.

“Which one of you sidewinders stole my horse?” he yelled with surprising forcefulness.

No one answered.

“All right, I’m gonna have anotha beer, and if my horse ain’t back outside by the time I finish, I’m gonna do what I dun in Texas! And I don’t like to do what I dun in Texas!”

Some of the locals shifted restlessly.

He had another beer, walked outside and his horse was back! He saddled up and started to ride out of town.

The bartender wandered out of the bar and asked, “Say partner, before you go... what happened in Texas?”

The cowboy turned back and said, “I had to walk home.”

AMISH COMPUTER VIRUS

Submitted by Blake Burton

You have just received the Amish virus. Because we don’t have any computers or programming experience, this virus works on the honor system. Please delete all the files from your hard drive and forward this virus to everyone on your mailing list.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Signed, The Amish Computer Engineering Department

WHAT DOGS ARE FOR

Submitted by Donna Rodgers

A mother was delivering a station wagon full of kids to their homes one day when a fire truck zoomed past. Sitting in the front seat of the fire truck was a dalmatian.

The children began discussing the dog’s duties.

“They use him to keep crowds back,” said one youngster.

“No,” said another, “he’s just for good luck.”

Then a third child brought the argument to a close.” They use the dog,” she said firmly, “to find the fire hydrant.”

A WORDY WRECK

By Stacy Schmidt

Two trucks loaded with a thousand copies of “Roget's Thesaurus” collided as they left a New York publishing house yesterday, according to the Associated Press. Witnesses were stunned, startled, aghast, taken aback, stupefied, amazed, astounded and unsettled.

NEW WORDS FOR THE NEW YEAR

Submitted by Jean Campbell

Blamestorming - Sitting around in a group discussing why a deadline was missed or a project failed and who was responsible.

Mouse potato - The online wired generation's answer to the couch potato.

Sitcoms (Single Income, Two Children, Oppressive Mortgage)What yuppies turn into when they have children and one of them stops working to stay home with the kids.

Swiped Out - An ATM or credit card that has been rendered useless because the magnetic strip is worn away from extensive use.

Percussive maintenance - The fine art of whacking the heck out of an electronic device to get it to work again.

Uninstalled - Euphemism for being fired. Heard on the voicemail of a vice president at a downsizing computer firm: “You have reached the number of an uninstalled vice president. Please dial our main number and ask the operator for assistance.” (Synonym: Decruitment)

Salmon day - The experience of spending an entire day swimming upstream only to die in the end.

CLM (Career Limiting Move)Used among microserfs to describe ill-advised activity. Trashing your boss while he or she is within earshot is a serious CLM.

Ohnosesecond - That minuscule fraction of time in which you realize that you've just made a BIG mistake. (Synonym: Ignosecond), the moment between letting go of the door handle as you swing the car door shut and the actual closing of the door, during which you suddenly realize the keys are still in the ignition.

RESTAURANT CHOICE

Submitted by Lucy Sullivan Between her sophomore and junior years in college, my daughter Laurie waited tables at a rather seedy steakhouse.

One evening she waited on a well-dressed young couple. In a rather condescending tone, the man asked her, “Tell me, have you ever thought of going to college?”

“Actually, I do go to college,” Laurie politely replied.

“Well, I went to Harvard,” he said, surveying the restaurant, “and I'd never work in a place like this.”

“I go to Vassar,” Laurie retorted, “and I make it a point to never eat in a dump like this.” ■

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Community Concerts of the Grand Valley

By Jan Weeks

Fans of western music, you’re in luck. Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue will swing audiences at the Avalon Theatre as part of Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s series. This world-famous ensemble plays and sings country, western and Americana music with the best of them.

According to frontman Dan Miller, the group has played for people for over 18 years at the theater next to the historic Irma Hotel in Cody, Wyoming. Miller has also hosted programs on the Nashville Network, the Travel Channel and ESPN. The band has also played in 70 countries.

COUNTRY MILES

Music has always been a passion for Miller. Originally from northern Indiana, he taught himself to play rhythm and fingerpick guitar as well as the harmonica.

“I love music and how it affects people,” said Miller. “Music can make them laugh or cry. I’m really blessed to be able to share my music with others.”

Miller’s youngest daughter, Hannah, started playing with Dad at age 6 on the fiddle, mandolin and guitar. Wendy Corr has played guitar and bass guitar with the band for over 12 years. In 2023, Stephanie Streeter will take Hannah’s place on tour. From May through September, the Dan Miller Cowboy Music Revue performs in Cody. But come fall, they’re off to play on cruise ships to Mexico and in the Gulf.

They also appear in programs out of Nashville.

“We put in about 11,000 miles of windshield time a year,” Miller said. They logged even more than that the year they drove from Alaska to Florida, performing in many states along the way.

The revue features favorites from across generations, such as “Back in the Saddle Again,” “Across the Alley from the Alamo,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Seminole Wind” and “Teddy Bear.” Miller performs his own take on “Oklahoma,” substituting Wyoming for the Sooner State.

SHOWS WITH SPONTANEITY

This isn’t the first time Miller has

been to Grand Junction. While promoting a TV show he did a public relations performance at the historic train depot.

For the upcoming concert, Miller wants the audience to feel encouraged to participate.

“The songs we will do will stir memories. I encourage people to sing along,” he said.

He emphasized that his show is never the same. Even the band members never know what’s coming.

“It’s a spontaneous evening,” Miller said.

Come enjoy the spontaneity live, and meet the group after the show! CDs will also be available to purchase. ■

Mid-Season Package Sale

Call 970-263-5757 for details or visit the Avalon Box Office at 645 Main St., Grand Junction from 12-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

*If available, single show tickets will be on sale for $35 plus box office fees three weeks before the concert.

Send in your answers by Thursday, January 12 to be entered into a drawing for two tickets to Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue at the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction. Winners will be notified by January 16. Your Name: Phone: Email: Mail this entry form to:

BEACON Senior News PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Get the latest news and giveaways by signing up for our eblasts at: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com/pages/eblasts

A worm’s eye view of composting

Iam

happy to report that the worm composting community has grown worldwide, as over 10 countries were represented at the recent Vermiculture Conference at North Carolina State University. Everyone brought enthusiasm along with photos and stories of how to make amazing soil amendments and plant nutrient material using simple low-cost methods.

It was also rewarding to learn the North Carolina State campus composts all of its food waste and paper waste at its own facility. They composted 1,600 tons of material last year alone. Not only are they lessening what goes to their local landfill, but they can now meet the needs of all of their campuses’ landscaping departments.

The compost facility at Western Colorado Community College in Grand Junction does worm composting outdoors, but only by winterizing the worm bins and surrounding them with straw bales.

NEXT-LEVEL COMPOSTING

Vermicomposting can take your home composting to the next level.

Adding worms to the composting process increases and diversifies microbial populations, which makes for better plant growth. It also increases the amount of nutrients in the crops that we eat.

Five kinds of worms make great composters. The most temperature tolerant is the red wiggler (eisenia fetida).

Traditional composting raises temperatures above what a red

wiggler can tolerate, so we create worm bins to keep them happy. Ideally, we want to keep their space at 50-80°F while feeding them food waste, teabags, junk mail and composted materials. Worms that are fed food waste and manure do quite well, but the latest research shows that pre-composting materials makes a fantastic worm feed and superior vermicompost in the end. Here are some of the benefits of pre-composting:

• It prevents high nitrogen-content food waste from starting the composting process and elevating temperatures well above what worms can tolerate.

• It moderates the pH level of the compost. Worms prefer a 6-7 pH range.

• It volatilizes ammonia (NH3) and converts it to plant-available nitrates (NO3) so the vermicompost is more readily absorbed by the plants.

• It can decompose potential toxins.

• It homogenizes the feedstock so that the worms can consume it evenly, making for a consistent vermicompost afterward.

WORM RESOURCES

Best worm bin

Old Tom’s Wormery (www.oldtomswormery.com) in San Jose, California, has designed the most functional and affordable continuous flow-through method (CFT) vermicomposting worm bin I have ever come across. It is functional and simple to use, and has been engineered for long-term use.

Vermicompost facts

Dr. Zack Jones has identified a core group of microbes that produce plant growth hormones

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED

to aid in crop production that are present in all vermicompost, regardless of feedstocks or worm bin style. You can see his results at www.vermimicrobiomeproject. com.

Where to find worms

Samantha Flowers of Meme’s Worms in Georgia (www.memesworms.com) started out raising worms for her grandson to use for fishing. Now her worm breeding business is booming! She sells 100 pounds of red wigglers per week.

Worm composting supplies

Steve Churchill provides materials and supplies for home-based composters (www.urbanwormcompany.com). Be sure to check out his blogs and YouTube channel (@ UrbanWormCompany). He does weekly livestreams on all topics relating to worm composting every Wednesday at 9 a.m. ■

Leave age on the curb!

By Lynn Walker Gendusa

“There is a fountain of youth. It is in your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life, and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you truly have defeated age.”

- Sophia Loren

Before Christmas 2018, a group of girlfriends headed to New York City to see the bright lights, the holiday decorations and hopefully catch a snowflake or two. Our spirits were high because our friend’s niece managed the production of a little play on Broadway called “Hamilton,” and we pos-

sessed priceless tickets. When we stood on stage and mingled with the cast of the famed musical, we were beyond excited.

We drooled as we gazed into the city's elaborate store windows, wove our way through throngs of people and relished each moment. It was the “girls trip” right out of a

movie. We never stopped whirling in the Big Apple until a group of young 20-somethings poured a bucket of sand in our boots.

We were about to step off a curb and cross the street toward a park when one young man hurriedly ran around us, cutting us off.

“Hey!” one of his buddies yelled,

“Watch out for the old ladies!”

My friend Michele looked toward me and asked, “Did he mean us?”

It pained me to tell her the truth, but since there were no other females of any age near us, I nodded to the affirmative. Michele turned pale and the rest of us suddenly felt the need of a Boy Scout to help us

cross the street.

In all the hustle and bustle of loving the city's vibrancy, we forgot we were not those teenage girls starring in the movie and remembered we were all within a few years of reaching whatever age it is when youth is left way back yonder.

I love living in my own mind. I never consider myself old until I try to apply makeup and need a magnifying mirror to do so. Those lighted mirrors are evil! They also amplify those other travesties growing across your face that resembles a map with railroad crossings and warning signs.

It is funny how we view aging as if it is something worthwhile to notice. So perhaps we should not put so much effort into seeing it.

My dad always said, “The worst part of growing older is watching others who leave before they reach an older age.” He was right about that because it sure is tough saying goodbye. For the ones who remain here longer, we should be celebrating each breath we take.

Shoot, I began writing at age 68—a new career, a new adventure, new friends, new dreams and new deadlines. I am the new Grandma Moses except I write instead of paint. And, of course, I am not famous. But, shoot, I might be! You just never know what is around the corner if you never give up trying and keep your spectacles on so you won't hit a wall!

The world takes aging way too seriously, especially women. We try

to stop it, alter its looks, worry over it, and try to become who we once were in that old school photograph. The truth is, we are basically the same person as we were in school. The only thing that has changed is the photograph and perhaps, our added wisdom.

The words at the beginning of this article are from a beautiful woman to those trying to turn back the clock when it is not time that ages us; it is our spirit.

Our spirits have all suffered these past few years, no matter what age we are. It is not our government or a vaccine that will pull us out of our battered souls, but up to each person to utilize every moment.

Staring at that mirror or wishing for yesterday, or aimlessly worrying over tomorrow will age you faster than laying in the sun slathered in baby oil. There is so much more to life than fretting over something you cannot control no matter how much money you spend trying. Instead, take charge of making the world a kinder, less selfish place, creating warmth, bridging gaps, causing someone to smile, and suddenly age will be put in its place... forgotten.

Take care of the body you have so that you can enjoy living in it. Your life is not over until they call your name from way up yonder. Did the good Lord tell you to sit down or stop? No. So, keep vibrantly moving and pour sand into the boots of those who try stepping in front of you. ■

Already broke my resolutions and proud of it

By Michael Murphy

It seems when most people make their New Year’s resolutions, they commit the common error of choosing things too difficult to do.

For example, last year one of the top resolutions was to exercise more. Based on the number of treadmills and stationary exercise bikes I saw at garage sales this past summer, I’d say that resolution didn’t work out so well for a lot of folks.

I also saw quite a number of those exercise mats going for cheap—you know the comfortable cushions that you lie down on to stretch and do sit-ups? I had one but I would often fall asleep while lying on it. I do believe that I burned a few calories from aerobic snoring.

And how about that perennial favorite resolution of promising to watch our weight? I’m sure that most of us do not have any difficulty “watching” our weight. I can do that while lying back in my recliner after devouring a pint of Ben and Jerry’s Chubby Hubby ice cream

and gazing at my belly as it expands before my eyes. But losing weight? That’s a whole ’nother thing.

Since relieving one’s stress during the upcoming year is also high on resolution lists, why make resolutions that will no doubt increase one’s stress?

My solution is to simply make resolutions that are either extremely easy to keep or are so bad for me that I’m better off breaking them as soon as possible. It's a win-win situation.

Here’s how this strategy works: Many people vow to quit smoking during the new year—an exceedingly difficult resolution to keep. Hence, I take the opposite track and resolve to START smoking, which is easy to do. However, it is not good for me and awfully expensive. So, I’ll have one cigarette then vow to quit smoking. Heck, I can knock off two resolutions in about five minutes.

Let me share some of my other resolutions.

I resolve that by the end of 2023 I will have less hair on my head and

more hair in my nose and ears. I have made this resolution for at least the last 10 years and have carried it out faithfully each year.

To become more socially active, I vow to FaceTime with myself by taping my picture over that tiny camera hole on our two computers and run back and forth to speak.

and no beer, except I may need to have a beer Sunday evening to recover from all that stressful resting.

There's also my annual resolution to start using my credit card when shopping instead of my spare-change collection. Mainly because credit cards have really helped to reduce unemployment since there are apparently thousands of diligent people totally dedicated to stealing credit card numbers.

I know this because recently my credit card company notified me that I had charged 50 cents to a catering company in Mexico.

Another easy-to-keep technology-related resolution is that I will spend less time watching television simply by falling asleep in front of the TV even sooner than I did last year.

For health reasons, during the new year I resolve to only drink beer on Saturday nights. Oh, and Friday nights too if something special is going on, like some sort of rare natural phenomena such as a sunset. On Mondays, beer only if football, baseball, or basketball is on TV, so no beer during curling season.

I resolve to not drink beer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays unless, of course, my wife needs the room in the fridge. No beer on Thursdays except for a little to reward myself for how well I’m keeping my resolution throughout the week so far. That leaves Sunday, a day of rest

Now my memory isn’t quite as sharp as it used to be, but I’m fairly sure that if I had recently hosted a party in a place called Zihuatanejo and ordered one pint of refried beans for all my guests to share, I’d probably remember it.

Related to using my credit card more: I resolve to practice writing my name at home with the plastic handle of my toothbrush so I can get better at signing the screen at the checkout stand with that chunky high-tech pen which doesn’t let you see what you’re doing.

A final interesting fact about resolutions is that the percentage of people over 50 who achieve their resolution each year is the lowest of any age group: only 14%. That’s probably because, if they’re any thing like me, they forgot to write their resolution down, or if they did, they forgot where they put the piece of paper. ■

Growing up, growing older

By Will Sanborn

Amos McCoy. The old man with the limp and the cackle of a laugh. Many of you will remember Walter Brennan in his iconic role as the grandfather in “The Real McCoys,” a classic TV show of the late ’50s and early ’60s.

My brothers and I used to watch that show. Without question we knew that Brennan had to be about the oldest guy we’d ever seen.

Except that it turns out he was just 63 years old when the show started and 69 when it ended. No way!

My four brothers and I are now 84, 79, 75, 75 and 72. Who are the ancient ones now? At least I’m the young pup of the family, although you’re not much of a young pup when you’re older than Grandpa McCoy!

LESSONS GROWING UP

Life has a way of doing that to you. It just won’t slow down. The years pile up and before you know it, you’ve got a lot more years behind you than years left ahead of you.

There’s at least one good thing about that, though. Enjoying old memories has a way of giving perspective to life now while also bringing some much-needed laughs from looking back.

Growing up with four older brothers and no sisters meant I had to be tough enough to hang in there. My life consisted of hand-

As my mom worked full-time helping my dad run their small grocery store, the de facto person in charge at home was the oldest brother who happened to be present. Of course, that was never me.

That led to some interesting times (and memories) for me.

When I was 5, my oldest brother left home for the Navy. Whenever he was back on leave, he would employ his military training by posting a duty roster on the kitchen wall each morning for the rest of us. As the youngest, my duties would normally start with taking out the garbage and end with cleaning up the cellar.

That brother had a unique method for determining which of us was at fault whenever one of us had broken his rules, which happened regularly. He would take five-pound lead weights and have us hold them straight out at arm’s length. The first one whose arm dropped was determined to be the guilty party.

I think you can guess how that ju -

dicial proceeding went for me. The last-in-line little brother ended up with an unusually long rap sheet.

Fighting was a weekly, if not daily, part of home life, but we had one standing rule: no hitting in the face. However, one of my brothers had a temper that bypassed any rules. When he would start grinding his teeth in anger, that was my signal to bolt out the door as fast as I could!

But there was one area where my brothers showed their love and concern. I was a somewhat picky eater. No problem—my brothers knew what to do. They saw to it that I ate what was put in front of me, whether I wanted to or not.

I remember gagging on a piece of steak with more fat and gristle than meat. They wouldn’t let me leave the table until I’d swallowed it.

ONE OF MY BROTHERS TAUGHT ME HOW TO RIDE A BIKE. HIS METHOD WAS SIMPLE: PUT ME ON THE BIKE, PUSH ME DOWNHILL AND STAND BACK TO WATCH.

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One of my brothers taught me how to ride a bike. His method was simple: put me on the bike, push me onto the downhill street we lived on and stand back to watch. Just 100 yards down the hill, the street took a sharp right turn—so what he saw was a monumental crash! He hadn’t thought to show me how to use the brakes.

Fast-forward some years, and it was time for me to learn to drive a car. Stick shift was the only option back then. One of my brothers would take me to the steepest street around, aptly named Crest Road. He’d have me stop halfway up the hill, tell me to shift back into first and then see if I could avoid stalling and rolling backward down the hill. It was a do-or-die system, which was the norm for much of my brothers’ training. How I managed to make it into my teen years and through them is anyone’s guess!

They would take the peas that I detested and hide them in the mashed potatoes as their method of making sure I ate my vegetables. Come to think of it, that was the last time I ever ate peas!

MEMORIES & PERSPECTIVE

All this time later, with 385 years of life among us, we’re spread out around the country. We have occasional get-togethers, sometimes with one or two other brothers, sometimes with the whole crew. And the memories? Priceless.

Stories change, often embellished or remembered differently, but the laughter flows. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade those growing-up years for anything.

There’s no stopping time. But it’s those early years of good times and bad that provide our memories, and those memories give perspective to everything life brings now. ■

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By Victor Block

“Fish. Party. Repeat.”

Those words, printed on a South Padre Island, Texas restaurant sign refer to two of the popular pastimes there.

SPI (as locals call it) and nearby Port Isabel also boast a long list of other things to see and do.

These activities are well known to “Winter Texans”—people primarily from the Midwest who spend several winter months soaking up the sun and fun at those twin towns nestled along the Gulf of Mexico at the Lone Star State’s southern extremity.

This is an area of outstanding beaches, a long list of both land and water activities, and intriguing historical tidbits. Both communities present the atmosphere of many beachfront locations. Hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops abound, and colorful golf carts are a popular mode of transportation.

Much more awaits those who find their way to this fantastic destination that’s within a seashell’s throw of Mexico.

Warm winter fun within a seashell’s throw of Mexico

NO FISH? NO CHARGE

South Padre Island’s beaches have won well-deserved accolades, and the proximity of Mexico has influenced the local culture. After the Spanish exploration period, the area was owned by Mexico and then the Republic of Texas before becoming part of the United States.

Visitors soon learn why the destination is a magnet for people who like to fish. The waters are so productive that one charter boat captain advertises “No fish; no charge.”

The A (antiquing) to Z (ziplining) list of activities includes many that are water-related. They range from kayaking and canoeing, snorkeling and sailing, to speeding around on a jet ski and loping along a beach on horseback.

Birding is another attraction. At the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, I spotted some of the 350-plus species that reside in or migrate through the area. Some have colorful names like Marbled Godwit and Semipalmated Plover.

Another expedition took me on a dolphin-watch cruise in Laguna Madre Bay. Captain Bob pointed out the first sighting as soon as we left the marina.

Whenever someone saw a telltale fin—or better yet, a dolphin leaping out of the water—a collective “ooooh, aaaah” echoed among the passengers.

Adding to our enjoyment was inspecting the specimens that a net had dredged up from the bay floor. Among the sea life we examined were a sting ray, several fish and shrimp.

SENSATIONAL SHRIMP

It’s no surprise that shrimp were among our catch. Those crustaceans have been the source of an industry that has thrived in the area since the 19th century. Trawlers drag their nets through the Gulf

of Mexico for as long as three weeks at a time, working at night because shrimp are nocturnal.

Also not surprising are variations on shrimp dishes that are served at local restaurants, including tacos, quesadillas, benedicts, omelets and

A visiting beachgoer surfcasts for his dinner in South Padre Island, Texas.

BLT sandwiches. They augment the American, Mexican and Texas-based cuisine which is included on many menus.

HISTORY & LIGHTHOUSES

The story of shrimping is among those told at the Port Isabel Historical Museum.

Exhibits portray the area’s past, beginning with the arrival of Native

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WHO LIKE TO FISH

Americans and moving on to the Spanish exploration period, the Civil War and local folklore.

The museum is housed in a historic building (built in 1899), which in the past served as a dry goods store, post office and railroad station.

Port Isabel also is home to a lighthouse, which was completed in 1853 to guide ships bringing sup-

plies to U.S. military posts. During the American Civil War, it was used as an observation tower by both forces.

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If clambering to the top of a lighthouse isn’t your thing, perhaps world-class fishing or relaxing on celebrated beaches is. They’re among many treats that await those who visit SPI and Port Isabel, Texas. ■ Visit sopadre.com and portisabel-texas.com to get some great ideas for travel!

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2023 | TRAVEL | 31

South Padre Island and nearby Port Isabel boast a long list of things to see and do, including many outstanding beaches.

10:00

Jesus lights the way

By Pastor John Vieths

515 S. Hillcrest Dr. Montrose, CO 81401 970-249-4319

515 S. Hillcrest Dr. Montrose, CO 81401 249-4319

“And now the Lord says… ‘It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6)

Sunday study: 9:00 a.m.

Sunday worship: 10:15 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Grand Junction

720 Grand Avenue 970-242-5645

Visit our website: fbcgj.org

From the very moment that Jesus was conceived, the Lord was putting him together in such a way that he should answer this calling to serve as a light to the Gentiles.

When Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth after Gabriel announced that she would carry the Savior of the world, Elizabeth immediately rejoiced. John the Baptist leaped for joy inside Elizabeth because he was in his Savior’s presence (Luke 1:39-45). From the very beginning, God was using Jesus as his servant.

Look at how Jesus served God’s purposes from the moment he was born. The baby Jesus preached no sermons, but his very presence increased the faith of lowly shepherds. He turned them into missionaries and moved them to praise God. As an infant, he did the same thing for old Simeon and Hannah in the temple (Luke 2:22-38). Before he could speak a word, he was a light to those around him.

There are several different purposes a light can serve. We usually use them to help us see. They also serve as a beacon or marker, just like a lighthouse marks the shore line or runway lights illuminate the airstrip.

Jesus served as this kind of light when the Lord called him to bring Jacob back. Although these people had turned their back on him time after time, God still wanted to gather them to himself. Jesus was the beacon who showed them where to go.

It was never God’s intention

to share the Gospel with just one nation. When he chose Abraham’s family as his chosen people, he promised that through Abraham all nations on earth would be blessed. Jesus’ light led all nations to their God.

Not everything Jesus went through to be the light to the Gentiles was pleasant. Throughout his life Jesus was challenged and despised by the ruling groups in Israel: the self-righteous Pharisees, the liberal Sadducees, the Sanhedrin, the priests.

By the time Good Friday came, it seemed as if the whole nation had turned against him. His 12 best friends betrayed, denied or deserted him. Common criminals mocked and insulted him. God himself turned away from the pitiful sight of Jesus on a cross.

But as the last little flame of life in him flickered and failed, at just that moment the light of the world was blazing away, finally making it clear just how God would save all people. His death may have been humble, but it shows all the world the glory of God’s love. It lights the only way back to the Father, the only way to heaven. ■

John Vieths is a pastor in Norman, Oklahoma. Nourish your faith in between Sundays by reading more of his writings at www.bitsofbread. org.

Ring in the new year by debunking bad tech advice

One of the worst problems I see people do in regards to implementing and using technology is following obsolete advice.

The world “obsolete” is often used to describe something that has gone out of fashion or has been surpassed by something that works more efficiently. However, true obsolescence is when something either becomes totally unusable for the purpose for which it was designed, or because it becomes far more cost prohibitive, or even dangerous, than the alternatives that replace it.

It’s easy to identify when technology becomes functionally obsolete—when using it simply doesn’t make sense.

Following obsolete technology advice can lead to major problems including identity theft, financial loss, limitations on access to public services and even health complications. That’s because bad guys don’t need complicated hacking software if they can use your own misconceptions and obsolete knowledge against you.

Let’s begin the new year by taking a more informed approach to technological advice by getting rid of obsolete practices and ringing in the new. Here are some tech truths to keep in mind.

Your antivirus doesn’t protect you from anything. Back in the day, antiviruses played key roles in defending you from the bad guys, but not anymore. The truth is that most modern computers have the latest protection built into their systems, which do a far better job of keeping your information safe. Web browsers, too, have their own builtin security, oftentimes surpassing antivirus capabilities.

Early viruses were designed to cause problems. The virus creators often did it for notoriety, activism or to vandalize the digital space.

Now creating viruses takes expertise. The skills used to write malicious programs are in higher demand by legitimate companies like Google, Facebook and Microsoft than by organized crime or third-world political factions.

You can’t stay off the grid. Prior to broadband internet, smartphones, Google and Facebook, it was somewhat possible to keep a small footprint in cyberspace. Those days are gone. Now everything you do that creates a record is connected to the internet.

You have a complete and accurate digital profile in cyberspace whether you know it or not, and there is no way to delete it. Your online identity is made up of all

the information that is shared and curated from your various activities online.

Shopper loyalty cards know you.

A shopper loyalty card isn’t just designed to give you cheaper gas and exclusive discounts. These cards associate you with what you buy, how often you buy it, which sale items bring you back into the store, the days and times you typically shop, how you pay for merchandise, whether you have a family, etc.

The data these programs gather is even more useful if you use associated services like tire maintenance, pharmacy or the store’s online ordering and home delivery. Think for a minute about what last month’s trips to the grocery store say about you.

Staying offline gives bad guys the ability to claim your identity. Many people think that the best way to prevent bad guys from getting their information is to never intentionally put the information online.

However, if you don’t put your

cellphone number into Facebook when you set up an account, anyone with your username and password can access it and make changes. But when you provide your cellphone number, you will get a text with a unique password that will be required to change anything about your account.

Bad guys love getting into an online account where the cellphone number hasn’t been provided. They will immediately put their own cellphone number into that space. After that, everything about your account can be changed and verified by the person who holds the associated cellphone.

Two-factor authentication methods work. All forms of two-factor authentication are secure and reliable. If an online entity you are doing business with has the option to set up two-factor authentication, use it. Provide secondary email addresses and cellphone numbers, or use a specified app for authentication.

It can be annoying, but the more ways a legitimate company can keep someone from accessing your account, the better. Bad guys will not be able to hijack an account unless they have access to your secondary authentication method. ■

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

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

Winter wildlife fun

Ways to teach your grandkids about local wildlife

By Kimberly Blaker

During the cold winter months, life slows down as both people and animals take shelter to stay warm. While some wildlife hides away and hibernates, other animals continue to roam, leaving signs of activity behind them.

If you and your grandkids are willing to brave the chill, winter is a great time to explore and observe a different side of nature. Here are some fascinating and fun ways to engage with wildlife, even in frosty weather.

SEARCH FOR ANIMAL TRACKS

During the winter, the weather change makes it easier to find the footprints that animals leave behind. Look for a patch of open ground, especially where there’s mud, sand or snow and see if you can spot any tracks that have been left behind.

Notice patterns and where the tracks go to make guesses about the animal and its habits. Are the tracks spread far apart? Do they go

in a straight line or wander around? Is there one set or multiple? If you follow the tracks and they’re fresh enough, you might even catch a glimpse of the animal that made them.

Turn your trek into an extension activity by drawing a sketch of the tracks or taking a picture of the tracks you find. Then look up the tracks at home to see what ani-

mals live or have traveled through your neighborhood. If you’re really ambitious, you could even bring materials with you to make a cast of the footprints you find.

FEED ANIMALS, BUT WITH CAUTION

Food for animals tends to be more scarce in the winter, particularly berries and seeds, which birds and small animals rely on. Winter food shortages are especially likely for animals like squirrels that hide food for later. Animals often lose their stockpiles in parks or backyards because of changes influenced by humans, such as fall cleanup.

It can help wildlife if you have healthy food in your yard, such as seeds, nuts and fruit. But be careful about how you do this so animals don’t become dependent on being provided food by humans, which hurts wildlife in the long run.

Don’t put food out regularly. Instead, put it out on an occasional basis. Also, be careful about the kind of food you offer. Some foods may be better or worse than others for the animals in your area. And don’t attempt to feed animals by hand because it isn’t safe for you or them. When wildlife gets too comfortable around humans, it can become a nuisance, ultimately requiring it to be removed or destroyed.

ANIMAL SCAVENGER HUNT

Make a list of the animals in your area. Then go on a nature walk and track how many of each you see. Leave room on your list to add any surprises you spot while you’re out.

For more fun, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt and snap a picture of each animal.

Even if there are fewer active animals near you during winter, there may be insects around to hunt for. Grab a magnifying glass and crouch down low in the dirt and plant growth to hunt for some creepy crawlers to observe.

Birds are also fascinating with the broad range of species. They’re also easier to spot in the winter as leaves have fallen from the trees and the outdoors is quieter. Stand quietly near bare trees and listen for birds calling out, watch them flying around and spot their nests tucked up in the trees.

Make your yard safe for local wildlife

Now Serving Grand Junction

Winter can be hard for animals and insects. But there are some simple things you can do at home to make your outdoor spaces more animal-friendly.

• Leave out fresh water for animals to drink from or bathe in.

• Have some “wild” natural spaces animals can use to burrow in or create habitat spaces from. You can also provide shelter spaces such as bird boxes or compost piles. Ensure that any feeders, baths or habitats are sanitary and free of mold or other potentially harmful buildups.

• Plant fruit trees and shrubs to share with local wildlife. Cover anything that you want to keep for yourself. But consider planting extra for birds and animals.

• Before lighting fires with natural debris like leaves, twigs and brush, check for any signs of animals or insects hiding inside or indications they may be using

it for shelter. Do the same before cutting down trees or other growth.

SUPPORT WILDLIFE REHABILITATORS

Another way to help local wildlife is by supporting nearby wildlife rehabilitation centers.

These organizations are often very busy during the winter months, with animals struggling too much to be released safely into the wild. You can donate canned food, blankets or other soft items, or your time to help care for the animals. Contact the center and ask about their current needs.

The Pauline S. Schneegas Wildlife Foundation in Silt and Roubideau Rim Wildlife Rescue near Montrose and Olathe are the nearest wildlife rehabilitation centers. You can also help Friends of the Mustangs, a group of people who love and care about the Little Book Cliff wild horse herd and work with the Bureau of Land Management to protect them.

• Pauline S. Schneegas Wildlife Foundation – 970-876-5676, psswildlifefoundation@gmail.com

• Roubideau Rim Wildlife Rescue – 970-209-5946, rrwildliferehab@ gmail.com

• Friends of the Mustangs – 970639-2027, friendsofthemustangs lbc@gmail.com ■

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IF YOU FOLLOW THE TRACKS AND THEY’RE FRESH ENOUGH, YOU MIGHT EVEN CATCH A GLIMPSE OF THE ANIMAL THAT MADE THEM.

5 ways to save money just by asking

By Mary Jo Terry

Inflation is hitting Americans hard and the effects are touching every aspect of our lives.

Everything from food, gas, water, clothing and housing is rising in price. But while many people have decided to create a strict budget plan and cut back on unnecessary spending, they’re still finding themselves spending more than they’re saving. However, saving money doesn’t have to be a complex plan that restricts your lifestyle. Here are some easy ways to save money just by having a simple conversation:

high for Americans and many find themselves continuing to rack up charges on their cards to pay for necessities.

If you find yourself in this situation and the debt continues to pile on because you’re unable to pay off your balances monthly, call your credit card company and ask them to lower your interest rate.

The worst that could happen is that they decline your request. However, if you have a good past relationship and credit history, they

may help you by lowering your interest rate, which can help you pay less over time.

➋ Ask utilities about a payment plan

Even if you’ve never been on one before, many utility companies offer payment plans. As utility prices continue to rise, you have options to keep your utilities on without draining your bank account.

Call your utility companies and ask about being put on a payment plan that works for you. These plans let you pay your bill in a way that’s comfortable for you and works for your budget and pay schedule. This way, you can have an exact idea of how much you’ll pay for utilities each month without worrying about whether you’re going to have enough money.

➌ Negotiate a lower cable rate

Before you completely get rid of your cable TV or internet, call your cable company and inquire about a lower rate. Explain that the cost of the service has gotten too high and you’re going to have to cancel if you can’t get a lower rate.

Whether they upgrade your package for free or simply lower your bill to something that’s more manageable, This will usually spark a conversation that will tip in your favor, especially if you’ve been a long-time customer. Asking to speak to someone in the Retention Department can never hurt. Cable companies want to keep your service, so calling to ask for a lower rate during these tough times can usually get you a discounted price.

➍ Ask about changing student loan monthly payments

Tens of millions of Americans have student loans—even at our age. Although the Biden Administration is calling for forgiveness of up to $10,000 for many borrowers, many will still be left with a balance to

pay each month.

Since taking on student loan debt, many Americans’ incomes have changed. Look into income-driven repayment plans (IDR plans) for student loans. This can help set your monthly student loan payment at an amount that is affordable for you based on your current income.

If you’re earning less than you were before, this is a great way to continue to be able to make your payments on time but lower the amount you owe each month. You may even find that you can spare a few extra dollars here and there each month that can easily make a difference in your budget.

➎ Ask yourself the hard questions

Most of the unnecessary spending we do comes from trips to Starbucks, TJ Maxx or other non-essential stores and restaurants.

Ask yourself the hard questions of whether or not you really need to make specific purchases. If you pay for every streaming service that’s available each month, you likely use one of them more than the others. Figure out what spending in your budget is going towards things you don’t need to buy each month and you can identify what is easier for you to eliminate or what you’re willing to give up for the time being.

You can also challenge yourself to go 24 hours without unnecessary spending, or maybe even expand the challenge up to a week. This can help you reevaluate where your money is going and what purchases you can cut out without limiting your lifestyle. Things like groceries, gas, utilities and other necessities don’t count towards this challenge. But purchases like eating out, a new pair of shoes or a new makeup palette can add up quickly on your monthly expenses. ■

This article was reprinted with permission courtesy of MLiving News: www.mlivingnews.com

There’s a mouse in the house!

By Sally Breslin

Iwas watching TV the other night when suddenly both dogs jumped up, ran out to the kitchen and started growling at the refrigerator. They made me wonder if maybe the chicken I’d bought earlier had come back to life.

As I walked over to investigate, a tiny mouse scurried out from behind the fridge, dashed toward the basement door then squeezed underneath it and disappeared.

So early the next morning, I headed over to the local hardware store. “I need a trap to catch a mouse,” I said to the clerk.

He cast me an amused smile. “A mouse? Only one?”

I nodded.

“Sorry to say, ma’am, but if you see one mouse, you can guarantee there will be about a dozen more

hiding somewhere.”

He then led me over to a shelf and proceeded to point out products that poisoned, maimed, flattened, decapitated, impaled and even exploded mice. I was surprised he didn’t drag out a hungry cat in a cage and offer that to me too.

“Don’t you have anything that wasn’t invented by the Marquis de Sade?” I asked. “I don’t want to kill the poor mouse. He’s actually kind of...cute.”

That was one thing I’d learned when I moved from a big city to a rural area—country mice. With their great big eyes and clean fur, they didn’t look anything like their scrawny, dirt-encrusted beady-eyed city cousins.

I remembered trapping one when we first moved and telling my husband how surprised I was that it

was so cute.

“Yeah, he’s just adorable,” my husband said, rolling his eyes. “Please don’t tell me you’re thinking about keeping him as a pet.”

Actually, the thought had crossed my mind. I’d even thought about naming him “Mickey.” The only thing that prevented me from keeping Mickey as a pet was the fact that he probably would have ended up being Exhibit A at my divorce trial.

Anyway, the hardware clerk finally showed me a “humane” trap—an opaque plastic tube with a door on one end that pushed inward. Once the mouse entered, it wouldn’t be able to get back out, he assured me, and then all I’d have to do was carry the tube elsewhere and release the little critter unharmed.

I bought the trap, shoved some peanut butter into it and then set it in the middle of my basement floor. Later that day, I checked it and noticed the trap was lying at a different angle. Something obviously had dared to crawl inside. The problem was, because the trap was made of opaque plastic, I couldn’t tell what that “something” was. For all I knew, it was some hideous, fanged creature that, when I freed it, would leap up at my throat and tear out my jugular (okay, so maybe I’ve been watching too many science-fiction horror movies lately).

I carefully picked up the trap, which felt light, but I didn’t dare shake it to see if something would bounce around inside. I stuffed the trap into a big cardboard box and taped it closed. Then I drove to a nearby hiking trail, removed the trap from the box and set it down on a rock.

Slowly, I tipped the trap upward so the door fell inward and opened, and then I waited for my captive to emerge. Nothing happened. I gave the trap a little shake. Still, nothing. Finally, I gathered the courage to peer down inside it, all the while fearing something would jump out and sink its teeth into my nostrils.

The trap was empty. However, the peanut butter I’d put inside was gone, and there were mouse droppings in the trap. But there was no mouse—that is, unless it had figured out the secret of invisibility.

I checked the cardboard box, not even considering that if the mouse had indeed escaped from the trap during the ride over, it wouldn’t still just be sitting there in an open box, waiting for me. Nothing there.

That night, I reset the trap in the basement. When I checked it the next morning, it once again showed signs that it had been disturbed. I wasn’t in the mood to drive back to the hiking trail, so I took the trap only as far as my driveway and opened it out there. To my surprise, a mouse came scurrying out and made a beeline straight back toward my house.

Current score: Mice - 2. Sally - 0. ■

County

January 4

New-to-Medicare 101

Learn when and how to sign up for Medicare, what Part A and Part B cover, how to choose the best health and drug plan and more in this free seminar at Mesa County RSVP SHIP. Seating is limited.

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 422 White Ave., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa countyrsvp.org | 970-243-9839

ARTrageous at the Avalon

Celebrate the Avalon Theater’s centennial with an ARTrageously incredible show with a uniquely entertaining fusion of live art making, music, theatre and more. Tickets are available online.

7:30-10 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $20-$100 | www.avalontheatregj.com | 970-243-6787

CALENDAR

to or binge watching.

10-11 a.m. | 1301 E. Sherwood Dr., Grand Junction | Free | www. mesacountylibraries.org | 970-2434442

January 7

5K Fun Run

Kick off the new year with a 5K Fun Run & 1K kids' dash to benefit the GJ Community Recreation Center campaign. Lace up your sneakers, grab your friends and family and hit the trails at Matchett Park. Free T-shirts for first 250 adult registrations, with additional prizes provided by Loki.

9 a.m. | 28 1/4 & Patterson Roads, Grand Junction | $20 advance registration | www.gjcrc.org

January 8

The Fab Four

Come experience the best Beatles tribute ever at the Avalon. Emmy Award-winning Fab Four plays note-for-note live renditions of Beatles' classics such as "Can't Buy Me Love," "Yesterday," "A Day in the Life," "Twist and Shout," "Here Comes the Sun" and "Hey Jude."

8-9:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $35-$55 | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-243-6787

January 10, 17, 24 & 31

Watercolors

what you have learned. Visit the website for a supply list. 1-4 p.m. | 101 W. 3rd St., Palisade | $140 | www.thebluepiggallery.com | 970-462-7370

January 11

Introduction to Medicare

Learn more about Original Medicare and how supplemental coverage can help with out-ofpocket costs, and review Medicare Advantage plan options at The Medicare Resource Center. RSVP required.

1:11 p.m. | 327 N. 7th St., Grand Junction | Free | 970-243-3100

in-house historian Ike Rakiecki will be the guest speaker for this fascinating look back in time. Registration required.

5:30-6:30 p.m. | 634 Main St., Fruita | Free | www.mesacountylibraries. org | 970-243-4442

January 14

Pops Concert: John Williams

Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra performs your favorite songs written by John Williams. Listen to songs from movies such as “Hook,” “Catch Me If You Can,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park” and more! It’s a thrilling evening of heartwarming hits from the cinema.

7:30-10 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $25-$45 | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-243-6787

January 14

Comedy on the Fly

January 11

Poetry Night

Learn themes, styles and techniques used in poetry while exploring the work of other poets. Bring your own work to receive feedback. This workshop occurs in the Mesa Room. 6-8 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacounty libraries.org | 970-243-4442

Get ready to laugh at this live comedy event at Gemini Beer Company where the audience plays a part in creating the comedy they will see on stage. The performers are skilled at improvising and will be able to take any suggestion, no matter how wild, and turn it into hilarious on-the-spot comedy.

7:30 p.m. | 640 White Ave., Grand Junction | $10

January 6

Steps & Stories

If you enjoy walking and talking, join Mesa County Libraries at Sherwood Park! Get in your steps while sharing what you’ve been reading, listening

with Nancy Lewis

Learn new ways to handle brushes, mix color on and off the paper and more at the Blue Pig Gallery. Artist Nancy Lewis will demonstrate her techniques and provide individual guidance and plenty of time to apply

January 11

Ghost Towns Talk

Discover some of the many abandoned towns and communities in Mesa County at the Fruita Community Center. Mesa County Libraries'

January 14

Cavalcade's Variety Show

For a hip, quirky, home-grown experience come to Cavalcade's Monthly Variety Show. Hear phenomenal music performed by local guest

musicians, listen to local poets spin their tales and go home with a smile on your face, a skip in your step and thoughts to ponder.

7:30-10 p.m. | 201 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita | $5-$10 | www.cavalcade fruita.com | 970-260-5413

January 15

ence, bringing together top experts in enology, viticulture and business. Enjoy networking, educational wine tastings and an interactive trade show. Register online and check schedule for workshop times. Various times | 159 Main St., Grand Junction | $50-$250 | www.wine colorado.org | 970-464-0111

January 19

History Talk: “A Bison Tale”

11 a.m.-3 p.m. | 159 Main St., Grand Junction | Free | www.grand junctionconventioncenter.com | 970-263-5700

January 25

Hat Bar Party

Join Women in Business for their Hat Bar Party at the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce. Fee includes all materials for the hats! Preregister online.

January 26

Mesa Monument Striders Group Run

Start the new year with everyone’s favorite resolution: running. It’s seriously good for your health and you get to meet new people and learn about what you have in common. Like all group runs, all attire and abilities are welcome.

6-8 p.m. | 417 Monument Road, Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa monumentstriders.com

Community Concerts: SailOn!

Sail On brings the music of The Beach Boys to the Avalon. Enjoy all the classic hits, plus some treasures from the brilliant extended catalog. Sail On faithfully recreates the soundtrack to an Endless Summer, live and in rich detail.

3-5 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $35 | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-243-6787

January 16-19

VinCO Conference & Tradeshow

VinCO is the region’s premier grape growing and winemaking confer-

Join Palisade Historical Society for a monthly history talk at the Ordinary Fellow Winery. Project Archaeologist Sonny Shelton presents her research on evidence of prehistoric bison hunting in Western Colorado spanning a period from 45,000 years ago to the late 1800s. 6 p.m. | 202 Peach Ave., Palisade | Free | www.historicpalisade. org | 970-464-2177

5:30-7 p.m. | 634 Main St., Fruita | $65 | www.fruitachamber.org | 970-858-3894

January 28

Romantic Violin

Don’t miss this dazzling program of romantic violin sonatas by violinist Dr. Emily Ondracek-Peterson and pianist Dr. Anna Arzumanyan at Colorado Mesa University’s Love Recital Hall.

3 p.m. | 1221 N. 12th St., Grand Junction | $17 | www.westernslope concertseries.org | 970-234-5661 ■

January 26

All

Aboard: Table Top Games for Adults

January 22

Wedding Expo

Looking to renew your vows or celebrate your love with friends? Head over to Grand Junction Convention Center for the biggest wedding show in Western Colorado!

Love board games? Come to Mesa County Libraries Central Branch for an adult game night! Play games provided by the library or feel free to bring your own. 5:30-7:30 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacountylibraries.org | 970-243-4442

County

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

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

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

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

Clifton Book Club meets to discuss book selections at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

CLUBS

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | www.mesacountylibraries.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 to get in.

2nd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 970-2560693 | www.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

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 | 7 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 | www.ffwcolo.com

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

7th St.

3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | www. brushandpaletteclub.org

Grand Junction Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road. 2nd Thursday & 4th Thursday | 7 p.m. | www.grandjunctionrockclub.org

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

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

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

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 27 1/2 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 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 | www.grandvalley petsalive.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.

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

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 26 1/2 Road.

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

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations.

303-549-4398 | www.mesacounty genealogy.org

Military Officers Association of America meets quarterly at DoubleTree by Hilton, 743 Horizon Dr. 970-361-1806

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. | 970549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org

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

OF THE Month Question

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

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-2087228

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. | 720-278-8537

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

Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 970234-5030

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

Sunset Slope Quilters meets at American Lutheran Church, 631 26 1/2 Road.

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

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

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Valley Events Center, 2400 Consistory Ct. Thursdays | 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 #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. | www.w0rrz.org

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

1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-2012865 | www.wcacastronomy.org

Western Colorado Artists Guild meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-6402751

Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247, 1404 Ute Ave. 4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-6403765

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 | www.western slopepickleballclub.com

Wheels West Car Club meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 25 1/2 Road. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www. wheelswestcarclub.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 ■

Chris Brown - Grand Junction

“I met my wife in 1991 at Denny’s. She was breaking up with her boyfriend and he left her there without a ride home. I was working there and very quick on my feet. I saw it all go down. It was one of my best days and one of her worst. We complement each other quite a bit.”

Connie Michael - Grand Junction

“Getting a college education was an experience I am grateful for, but running off and traveling with a circus when I was 18 was the coolest thing I’ve ever done. I loved the camaraderie. We set up, performed, dined and slumbered together. It made for special friendships.”

Diane Lucero - Grand Junction

“So, so many life experiences to be grateful for; to choose only one is difficult. I’ll choose the birth of my granddaughter. Being blessed to see her born was one of the best gifts my daughter could have ever given me.”

Cheri LeFevre - Grand Junction

“After being told by a fertility specialist that it would be next to impossible to ever have a baby, my most grateful experience was when I held my newborn son in my arms for the first time.”

What is one experience in your life you are grateful for?

Compiled by Mia Brabaek

AARP Tax-Aide prepares taxes for free—appointments

required

AARP Tax-Aide will begin providing free tax preparation on February 1, 2023. Appointments are required. Call 970-589-3789 or 970-2105705 to make an appointment or go to www.cotaxaide.org/appt to schedule online. All taxes will be prepared at the Wells Fargo Main Annex, 359 Main St. in Grand Junction, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Bring picture IDs, Social Security/ITIN cards, last year’s tax return and all documents to accurately complete your return, including letters from the IRS if you had identity theft, receipt of the economic impact funds, or the letter 6419 if you received Advanced Child Tax Credit payments.

State tax credit for making home more accessible

The Income Tax Credit for Retrofitting Home for Health bill created a state income tax credit of up to $5,000 to help people with an illness, impairment or disability retrofit their residence for greater accessibility and independence. The credit is available for retrofits completed in tax years 2019 through 2023. The Colorado

Alzheimer’s Association reveals breakthrough research

Alzheimer’s researchers gathered in San Francisco in December to share the latest clinical trial results for treatments in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The meeting featured scientific breakthroughs and developments. Here are some of the things learned:

• Data from the Phase 3 global clinical trial of lecanemab confirm this treatment changes the course of the disease in a meaningful way for people in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

• We are encouraged by continuing advancements of biomarkers— blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain imaging—which has the potential for early detection, diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease.

• The Alzheimer’s Association believes that the future of Alzheimer’s treatment will be a combination of drugs that target different aspects of the disease and risk reduction interventions. Lifestyle interventions, such as those being studied in the U.S. POINTER study, combined with disease-modifying treatments could be the most promising approach to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Legislature recently passed clarifying legislation to make dependents and spouses eligible. It also allows for up to a $5,000 credit per person in the family with a disability. Email dola homemodtaxcredit@state. co.us or call 303-482-7670 for more information.

Hearing aid giveaway to those in need - Nominations due January 12

High Desert Hearing Center joins forces with ReSound to donate hundreds of hearing aids and health

services to people with hearing loss who otherwise cannot afford professional hearing care. As part of the effort, High Desert Hearing Center is seeking nominations of people with hearing loss who are experiencing financial difficulty and would benefit from receiving a free set of ReSound OMNIA hearing aids. Visit High Desert Hearing at 631 24 ½ Road in Grand Junction to drop off nominations or request a nomination form at tjacobson@ highdeserthearing.com. Nomina-

tions must be received by January 12, 2023. For more information, call 970-985-8765.

Colorado nonprofit seeks volunteers to support teachers, children in early childhood education sites

Early Childhood Service Corps is a Colorado nonprofit actively recruiting older adults to serve as program volunteers to help in licensed early childhood education sites throughout Colorado. Volunteers/substitutes help out with the increasingly tough demand for qualified teachers in early childhood education facilities and make a difference for local children in the community. Volunteers must be age 50 or older and will receive free training via Zoom. Volunteers have the option to go through one semester of online classes through UC Denver to become paid licensed substitutes called Encore Subs. If you are 50+ and looking to make a difference in the lives of children and families across the state, visit www.earlychildhoodservicecorps. org for more information.

Western Colorado Writers’ Forum bids farewells to long-time board members Western Colorado Writers’ Forum

(WCWF) recently announced that long-time members Virginia Jensen and Caleb Ferganchick are stepping down from the board of directors. Jensen is a published author and poet, and has been on the board for many years, serving as chairman, publicity director and most recently vice president. She designed, wrote and produced the WCWF newsletter from October 2015 to January 2022 and published four books of beadwork designs. Ferganchick has organized the annual Slamming Bricks poetry competition, is the author of “The Secret of Sunflowers and Poetry Heels,” and is published in a number of other publications. He most recently served as secretary in 2022. For information on joining the writers’ forum, email wcwritersforum@gmail.com or call 970-822-7373.

Mesa County Libraries breaks ground on new Clifton Branch Mesa County Libraries recently broke ground on land located at 32 and F Roads to build a freestanding library more than three times the size of the current Clifton Branch. This welcome addition to the Clifton community will provide a variety of services and amenities, including community rooms and adult-learning classrooms to larger areas for children and teens. Some of the other amenities include: an adult learning center with two classrooms dedicated for GED; English language and citizenship classes; a community living room for quiet reading and relaxation; Children’s and teen’s services with dedicated space, customized collections, interactive activities and technology; public computing including desktop computers, tablets and seating areas for wireless users and more.

The new Clifton branch is expected to open fall 2023. For more information, call 970-243-4442 or visit mesacountylibraries.org.

Grand Valley Transit seeks public input on service reduction

GVT is currently inviting public input regarding proposed service changes, which includes elimination of the Route 1 “Dash Service.” This change would result in a return to normal service hours and full fares on the route beginning February 1, 2023. Email written comments to grandvalleytransit@mesacounty.us; call and leave a recorded message at 970-683-4339 or send written comments to PO Box 20,000-5093, Grand Junction, Colorado 81502. Public comments will be accepted until January 6, 2023. For complete details visit gvt.mesacounty.us.

Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout announces re-election

campaign

Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout recently announced her vision for the next four years and her re-election campaign to City Council. Stout was first elected to City Council in 2019 and became mayor in 2022 after serving for a year as mayor pro tem. In advance of the announcement, she said, “We weathered a health crisis, economic uncertainty and soaring inflation. But Grand Junction showed its true, deep character. We didn’t just survive— we are thriving and momentum is strong. It would be my honor to keep that momentum going and serve this community for another four years.” Stout is the first candidate to announce her intention to run for one of the four seats that will be up for election in the April 2023 municipal election. ■

Calendar@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Montrose & MeDelta Sa County

SUPPORTCALENDARGROUPS MeSa SUPPORT GROUPS MeSa County

50+ Networking Group through Mesa County Workforce Center meets virtually. You must be registered as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com to join.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-9:30 a.m. | 970-248-7560

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

Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. | 801-3698995

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

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org

Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella, 628 26 1/2 Road.

1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-822-7070

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. | 970714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org

Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 28 1/4 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. | 970-2452400

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. | 970-7789274

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

3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 970-2982351

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

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

Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location.

Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-2572390

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 | www.smartrecovery. org

St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets virtually and in person. 3rd Friday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-2981980

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

Road.

Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-2573760

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

4th Mondays | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | 970263-2661

TOPS for weight loss meets at Grace Point Church, 606 28 1/4 Road. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 970-5230241

TOPS 458 for weight loss meets at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B 1/2 Road.

Tuesdays | 1 p.m. | 970-628-4981

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. | 970-2573760

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Registration is required for all activities.

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

FOOD

Senior Potluck

Come to the Senior Center for a potluck featuring chicken fried steak. Register at least 72 hours in advance.

12 p.m. | Jan. 19 | Free

Food for Thought: Peanut Butter

Enjoy dishes made with peanut butter and bring your own to share.

1 p.m. | Jan. 23 | Free

HIKES & TRIPS

Hike: Alcove Nature

Trail Hike

Hike: Kodel’s Canyon Trail Hike

Walk Kodel Canyons’s three-mile roundtrip K2K1-K2 trails to see old west history. This trail is rated easy to moderate depending on conditions the day of the hike. Carpool from the Senior Center.

12:45 p.m. | Jan. 18 | $5

GAMES

Pinochle

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

CLASSES

Senior Computer Classes 50+ Register online for free computer and smart phone workshops and seminars.

10-11 a.m. Mondays | 2-3 p.m. Thursdays | Free Vegetable Garden Planning Plan your summer garden now! 10-11:30 a.m. | Jan. 29 | Lincoln Park Barn | $10

FITNESS

Senior Recreation Center activities

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

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

MONDAY

9:00 am Cribbage & Games

- Colorado

National Monument

Take an easy one-mile roundtrip hike to an ancient sand dune alcove. Meet at the Senior Center and carpool to the trailhead.

12:30 p.m. | Jan. 10 | $5

Come to the Senior Center to play this trick-taking aceten card game. Play with someone you know or join a new table and meet new people.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

Afternoon Games

Play dominoes, Mexican train and many other games at the Senior Center. 1 p.m. | Tuesdays

Tai Chi for Health Classes have been delayed but will resume on January 18. Tai Chi fosters physical and mental health improvement and aids spiritual growth. 8-9 a.m. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. Thursdays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8 drop in, $60 for 10-punch pass

Gentle Yoga

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

8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8 drop in, $60 10-punch pass

Line Dance

Choreographed dances taught to a variety of music. 12:15-2 p.m. | Mondays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6 drop in, $20 5-week session

SPORTS

Youth Basketball Volunteer Coach Opportunities

Coach basketball for boys from first to eighth grade. Six- to eight-week seasons January through March. To apply: www.government jobs.com/ careers/gjcity/transferjobs

Indoor Drop-In Pickleball

Bookcliff Activity Center: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sun | 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Sat Lincoln Park Barn: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wed | 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri $7 drop in, $50 10-punch pass

12:00 p.m. Canasta 1:00 pm Card Bingo

TUESDAY

8:00 am Pinochle (DD) 9:00 am Pool Tournament & Games 1:00 pm Bingo

WEDNESDAY

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

THURSDAY

9:00 am Games

10:00 am Craft Share

12:00 pm Pokeno

1:00 pm Rummikub

FRIDAY

9:00 a.m. Pool Tournament & Games

12:00 p.m. Canasta

12:45 p.m. Bridge

SATURDAY

9:00 am Games

10:00 am Tai Chi 1:00 pm Bingo

Montrose & Delta

January 1

The Black-Eyed Pea

The Black-Eyed Pea is back at Blue Sage Center for the Arts. Enjoy live music and support Sage Alley musicians including Story & Rick, J. Morley, Steve Clisset, Bernee sing-along and many more. Bring food to share for the potluck.

4 p.m. | 226 Grand Ave., Paonia | Free | www.bluesage.org | 970-527-7243

January 6

A Gordon Lightfoot Tribute

Come to Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center to see Eric Elison, a touring Gordon Lightfoot tribute artist who has performed for audiences across the world.

7-9 p.m. | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | $20 | www.gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

January 7

A Night at the Movies

Elevation Academy of Dance presents this live performance with two showings featuring dancers from all levels. Purchase tickets online.

2 p.m. & 7 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $10-$21 | www. elevationacademyofdance.org | 970-252-6321

CALENDAR

“The Lady in the Van” Magic Circle Players presents this mostly true story about the eccentric, genteel vagrant Miss Shepard who parks her van not only in Alan Bennett’s driveway, but at the center of his life and moral consciousness for 15 years. Bennett’s middle-class world comes into hilarious collision with Miss Shepherd’s as the story of her life and her stubborn resolve tugs our heartstrings.

7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday & 2 p.m. Sunday | 420 S. 12th St., Montrose | $15-$20 | www.magiccircleplayers.com | 970-249-7838

January 13

Mixed Bag Jazz

Dance the night away with Mixed Bag Jazz at the Blue Sage. Mixed Bag brings a fusion of cocktail jazz and pop music. Purchase tickets at the door. 7 p.m. | 226 Grand Ave., Paonia | $5 | www.bluesage.org | 970-527-7243

January 17

Dementia Education: Effective Communications Strategies

Join the Alzheimer’s Asociation at the Montrose Regional Library or via live webinar to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s. Learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage of the disease. Register online. 10:30-11:30 a.m. | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | Free | https://bit.ly// COMM_JAN17 | 970-714-2875

January 21

Delta Health Foundation Gala Support the Delta Health Foundation for an evening of elegance at Hotchkiss Heritage Hall. The semi-formal gala will include dinner, a cash bar, silent and live auctions and entertainment by Swing City Express.

5 p.m. | S. 4th St., Hotchkiss | $100 | www.foundationdeltahealth.org | 970-399-2610

January 21

Pheasants and Quail Forever Banquet

The Western Colorado chapter presents their annual banquet with games, raffles and a silent and live auction. Proceeds focus on improving local habitat and local youth education. Purchase tickets online. 5-10 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $50-$120 | www.montrose pavilion.org | 970-252-6321

January 24

Montrose’s Got Talent Auditions

Is your grandkid a chip off the old block? Montrose’s Got Talent is back and ready for your student-aged grandkid to showcase their talents at the Montrose Pavilion. The first 50 acts registered will be accepted to audition for one of the 20 acts to compete to win the $1,000 grand prize. Finals will be February 11. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

5:30 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | Prices vary | www.montrose pavilion.org | 970-252-6321

January 27-28

Soil Health, Food & Farm Forum

Connect with farmers, ranchers and experts in soil health during this comprehensive conference at the Montrose Pavilion. The theme is “From the soil up” and will cover crops, livestock and water management. Check the event schedule for times.

Times vary | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $45-$90 | www.montrose pavilion.org | 970-252-6321

January 28

Big Richard at Paonia's Paradise Theatre

Big Richard is a neo-acoustic super group and one of the hottest rock bands around. What began as an all-female festival collaboration quickly morphed into a serious passion project driven by sisterhood, harmony and humor…along with the

shared desire to rage fiddle tunes and smash the patriarchy.

7 p.m. | 215 Grand Ave., Paonia | $25 | www.paradiseofpaonia.com | 970-527-6610

January 28

| $17 | www.westernslopeconcert series.org | 970-234-5661

January 30

MUSH! with Karen Land

Bonzani & Bittersweet Highway Concert

Dean

Grand Mesa Arts & Event Center’s winter/spring concert series continues with Dean Bonzani & Bittersweet Highway. Both artists bring an inspired combination of experiences and life celebrations into their music. Buy tickets online.

7-9 p.m. | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | $20 | www.gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

January 28

Grand Mesa Sled Dog Races

Join the Montrose Senior Center on this trek up the Grand Mesa to watch sled dogs and their humans race in the snow (events also include skijoring). Dress warmly and bring a chair. Call for details.

7:45 a.m. | $23 | www.montroserec.com | 970-252-4884

Have you ever wondered what it’s like crossing the vast Alaskan tundra behind a loaded sled with a team of dogs? Join three-time Iditarod participant Karen Land and her husky Noggin as she shares her experiences and showcases her sled equipment.

6-7:30 p.m. | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | Free | www.montroselibrary. org | 970-249-9656

January 30

Line Dance at the Montrose Senior Center

Take up line dancing in the new year, or show off your moves every Monday evening at the Montrose Pavilion. Line dancing has proven to be beneficial for those who need to work on their coordination and balance. The quick movements are good for increasing brain memory and heart health. With any weight-bearing exercise your bones get a good work out and help increase your bone density.

4-6 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $2

January 29

Romantic Violin

Don’t miss this dazzling program of romantic violin sonatas by violinist Dr. Emily Ondracek-Peterson and pianist Dr. Anna Arzumanyan at the Montrose Pavilion.

3 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose

Montrose & Delta

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. Supplies provided. Thursdays | 11 a.m-1 p.m. | 970249-9656

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

9:45-11:30 a.m. | Tuesdays | 970249-7198

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

CLUBS

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 | www.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 | www.wcgpaa.org

Golden Circle of Friends meets at Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr. Bring lunch and socialize. Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970986-2550 | lvcribbs@gmail.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 | www.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 virtually. Email for link. 1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. www.mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970765-0599 | mmaaflyer@gmail.com

Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Dr. All ages welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | $10 | 970-252-7172

Montrose Single Seniors is a new group for active singles. 520-282-9060 | smilngangel10@ gmail.com

SOS: Singles Over 65 is a gender-balanced club for single seniors! Must join online. www.meetup.com/montrosesingles-over-65 Uncompahgre Treasure Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose, 602 N. Nevada. 7 p.m. | 2nd Monday | 970-258-1955 | www.uncompahgretreasureclub. com

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

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way. Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org

Veterans Coffee West End meets at the Nucla Airport, 27696 D. D. Road.

2nd Wednesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org

Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at Grace Community Church, 16731 Woodgate Road. 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-209-5326 ■

SUPPORT GROUPS

HopeWest Bereavement Book Club members heal through discussions about death and grief from various forms of literature at the Delta Library, 211 W. 6th St. 3rd Thursday | 2-4 p.m. | 970-8749630 | www.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

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. | 970510-0724

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. 405-205-9397

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Montrose Regional Health’s conference room, 800 S. 3rd St..

Last Monday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970252-2996

Calendar@BeaconSeniorNews.com • 970-243-8829

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Walks take place January through March. Bring money for lunch.

8:45 a.m. | Jan. 26 | $21

Grand Mesa Dog Sled Races

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

See the Calendar on page 48-49 for details on The Mysto Magic Show on January 19.

EDUCATION

Presentations are free, but donations support activities and the lunch program. Call to reserve your seat.

Little Bighorn, Contested Ground

Kate Burke reveals the backstory of this famous battle, including the Manifest Destiny, broken treaties, a series of intertribal conflicts and the ongoing fight for natural resources between the U.S. cavalry and seven Native American groups.

1 p.m. | Jan. 23

TRIPS & TOURS

Most trips meet at the Senior Center and fill quickly. Get on the waiting list if a tour is full in case we schedule another one.

Shopping & Lunch in Grand Junction

Shop Mesa Mall and its new stores. Stops will be customized as much as possible to meet participant’s requests. Bring money for lunch.

8:15 a.m. | Jan. 5 | $23

The Escape House Grand Junction

Play a part in this live-action experience where players must use their minds to find clues, solve puzzles and hopefully make their escape in 60 minutes! Bring money for lunch.

11:15 a.m. | Jan. 13 | Call for price

Winter Walking

Walk the Riverside Trail in Grand Junction in segments and check out the artistic murals along the way.

Watch sled dogs and their humans race on the Grand Mesa (events also include skijoring). Dress warmly and bring a chair. Meet at the MRD Field House and bring money for lunch.

7:45 a.m. | Jan. 28 | $23

50+ Snowshoeing

Snowshoe on the groomed County Line trails on the Grand Mesa and have lunch at lodge. Bring money for lunch or a sack lunch.

9 a.m. | Jan. 31 | $21

ART

Diamond Painting

Learn to apply hundreds of sparkling resin rhinestones on an adhesive, color-coded canvas. Kits are available for purchase. Contact Joy Long at 970-787-0133.

9:45 a.m. | Thursdays | Fee: Cost of kit

MUSIC & DANCE

Jam Session/Sing Along

Take turns picking and leading a song. Spectators welcome.

3:45-5:45 p.m. | Mondays | Free

Open Line Dancing

Learn line dancing steps with formal instruction.

3:30-4:30 p.m. (beginners), 4:305:45 p.m. (improvers) | Mondays | $2

Intro to Line Dance

Learn the terminology, basic steps and rhythm, then combine them to create dances to music. Contact instructors Karyl Dimmick (970739-1917, kdimmick@bresnan. net) or Ruth Fletcher (970-4269288, raf.fletcher@gmail.com) to sign up.

2:30-3:15 p.m. | Jan. 9, 23, 30 & Feb. 6, 13 & 27 | $2 per class

GAMES

Contact the senior center for a schedule! ■

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

GAMES

Pinochle

1-4 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Dominoes

1-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | $15

Party Bridge Club

1-4 p.m. | Thursdays | $15

Chess Club

5:30-8 p.m. | Tuesdays | Free

FITNESS

Indoor Pickleball

Play this fun sport with an even funnier name.

7:30-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | 12:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays

Low Key Fit

A low-key exercise program based on functional fitness.

9 a.m. | Mondays

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 flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre elements.

12 p.m. | Tuesdays

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

Monday Movers

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

5:30 p.m. | Mondays

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

Tone those muscles, pump up that heart, and get an overall good workout with water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges.

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

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

Water Zumba

Enjoy a dance party in the pool, fun for all fitness levels.

5:30 p.m. | Wednesdays ■

Mysto Magic Show comes to Montrose and Delta County

Durango magician Mysto comes to Montrose and Delta County for three nights of up-close sleight of hand and stage magic. Mysto uses character, skits and flawless magic to bring his audiences back to a simpler time of joy, wonder, amazement and just good old-fashioned fun! All three showing are free! Showtimes and locations are:

• January 19 at 1 p.m. - Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr.

• January 19 at 7 p.m. - Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge

• January 20 at 6 p.m. - Blue Sage Center for the Arts, 228 Grand Ave., Paonia

Delta Chamber is not closing!

The chamber is not closing, not dissolving and not quitting! The board and staff have worked tirelessly to support the businesses of Delta County and they are committed to getting back on track in 2023. The chamber will be sending out email surveys to begin the strategic planning process in January and wants to hear how it can be an asset to local businesses. Sign up to receive emails at www.deltacolorado.org.

VSA announces guest conductor for “Young Composers: Be Inspired!” concert

The Valley Symphony Association (VSA) is delighted to announce that Charlotte Ruth Harrison of Orem, Utah will guest conduct the orchestra in their winter concert at the Montrose Pavilion in February. Born and raised in Utah, Harrison studied oboe performance with Dr. Geralyn Giovannetti at Brigham Young University before earning a master of music specializing in orchestral conducting from the University of Texas at Arlington under the tutelage of Dr. Clifton Evans. She is an active conductor, oboist, educator, singer and pianist. Her musical studies have spanned multiple genre and ensemble types including Baroque, classical, contemporary, jazz, chorale and more. Audience members who complete the guest conductor survey at either the February or April concerts will be entered into a drawing for a beautiful hand-painted violin. Feedback will be compiled to help the VSA conductor search committee reach a decision in May, when they expect to announce the new conductor. For information about upcoming concerts, tickets and the audition process, visit www. valleysymphony.net or call 970-765-8323.

State tax credit for making home more accessible

The Income Tax Credit for Retrofitting Home for Health bill created a state income tax credit of up to $5,000 to help people with an illness, impairment or disability

retrofit their residence for greater accessibility and independence. The credit is available for retrofits completed in tax years 2019 through 2023. The Colorado Legislature recently passed clarifying legislation to make dependents and

spouses eligible. It also allows for up to a $5,000 credit per person in the family with a disability. Email dola homemodtaxcredit@state. co.us or call 303-482-7670 for more information.

Colorado nonprofit seeks volunteers to support teachers, children in early childhood education sites

Early Childhood Service Corps is a Colorado nonprofit actively recruiting older adults to serve as program volunteers to help in licensed early childhood education sites throughout Colorado. Volunteers/substitutes help out with the increasingly tough demand for qualified teachers in early childhood education facilities and make a difference for local children in the community. Volunteers must be age 50 or older and will receive free training via Zoom. Volunteers have the option to go through one semester of online classes through UC Denver to become paid licensed substitutes called Encore Subs. If you are 50+ and looking to make a difference in the lives of children and families across the state, visit www.earlychildhood servicecorps.org for more information.

Montrose

Westminster Hall, Presbyterian Church, 135 E. 4th St., Delta

Alzheimer’s Association reveals breakthrough research Alzheimer’s researchers gathered in San Francisco in December to share the latest clinical trial results for treatments in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The meeting featured scientific breakthroughs and developments. Here are some of the things learned:

• Data from the Phase 3 global clinical trial of lecanemab confirm this treatment changes the course of the disease in a meaningful way for people in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

• We are encouraged by continuing advancements of biomarkers— blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain imaging—which has the potential for early detection, diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease.

• The Alzheimer’s Association believes that the future of Alzheimer’s treatment will be a combination of drugs that target different aspects of the disease and risk reduction interventions. Lifestyle interventions, such as those being studied in the U.S. POINTER study, combined with diseasemodifying treatments could be the most promising approach to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Black Canyon Surgical Center named among America’s best In an analysis of over 5,000 ambulatory surgery centers, Newsweek and its partner Statista placed Black Canyon Surgical Center on its list of America’s Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers 2023. It is one of only a select few receiving this recognition in the state of Colorado. The award is based on quality of care, performance data and peer recommendations, relative to in-state competition. “We put our

attention and energy into quality patient care along with developing the best team and surgical environment possible,” said Dan Soderlind, CEO of Black Canyon Surgical Center. More information about the Black Canyon Surgical Center can be found at www. blackcanyon surgicalcenter.com.

AARP Tax-Aide prepares taxes for free—appointments required

AARP Tax-Aide will begin providing free tax preparation at the Montrose Senior Center starting January 9, 2023. Appointments are required. Call 970-252-4889 to make an appointment. Bring picture IDs, Social Security/ITIN cards, lastyear’s tax return and all documents to accurately complete your return, including letters from the IRS if you had identity theft, receipt of the economic impact funds, or the letter 6419 if you received Advanced Child Tax Credit payments.

Montrose Regional Health volunteers raise money for medical equipment

Volunteers at Montrose Regional Health (MRH) donated $9,600 to purchase three automated external defibrillators (AED) for the hospital and associated clinics. The donated funds were raised through sales at the Golden Leaf Giftshop and the used book sale program at the hospital. AEDs are an invaluable, life-saving piece of equipment that’s needed throughout the hospital. MRH has over 50 volunteers who contribute countless hours throughout the hospital donating their time, energy and compassion to help patients and caregivers. If you are interested in volunteering, visit www.montrosehealth.com/ about/volunteers. ■

OF THE Month Question

by

Katharina Morrison - Gateway

“I’m grateful for having been able to travel around the world and meet people from other countries and experience their cultures. I think many people forget what a privilege it is to live in this country. We need to be more mindful of others and thankful we do not live in a country of political chaos.”

Teddy Withee - Montrose

“At age 69, I’m grateful to be working after retirement at a job I love. Debbie Blanchard, owner of D’Medici, Coloradoology and Holidays shows me every day how important her employees, customers and community are to her. She leads by example and makes working fun again.”

Paul Crawford - Olathe

“I’m grateful for surviving the war in Iraq and returning to my wife and two sons while serving in the Army. Though my scars aren’t visible, they’re daily reminders that people die defending the freedom and protection of others. I’m a better man because now, I never miss a chance to hug my family, friends and brothers in arms.”

Betzy B. - Montrose

“Last year, I lost everything I owned in a house fire. I’m grateful I survived so I could learn the art of receiving. I’ve always worked in a care-giving field, so I’m not accustomed to asking for help. I want to thank everyone in this community for their prayers and love. I am forever changed, humbled and grounded.”

What is one experience in your life that you are grateful for?

Compiled

Siggie Carpenter

Peace of Mind Living

Crossroads at Delta’s 8 acre campus sits atop a bluff with a stunning view of the Grand Mesa. Move here at any stage of life 55+, and enjoy our campus as you enter a new chapter of your life.

FOR RENT

FOR SALE

HOME SERVICES

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 RENT

Rental in quiet, safe, clean 55+ Friendship Woods Senior Community. 3 bedrm 2-bath recently renovated mobile home in very nice condition. Large, private shady yard, carport and shed. W/S/T incl. in rent. 2 small pets allowed. $1200/mo. Section 8 ok. 970-210-5753.

Rental in quiet, safe, clean 55+ Friendship Woods Senior Community. 2 bedrm 1-bath recently renovated mobile home in very nice condition. Large shady yard, carport and shed. W/S/T incl. in rent. 2 small pets allowed. $1100/mo. Section 8 ok. 970-210-5753.

Great home, location! Single-level, spacious 3-bed, 2-bath home on quiet cul-de-sac minutes from top medical facilities, shopping, airport. Attached garage. Clean, bright, and updated! $2,250/mo. Includes city services, HOA. Senior discount 55+ tenants. Annual lease. Call or text Ken 808-597-4076

FOR SALE

PORCELAIN DOLLS FOR SALE, all sizes. 970-778-8075.

Use Happy Jack® Skin Balm® on cats & dogs to treat hot spots, flea allergies without steroids! At Tractor Supply. (www.fleabeacon.com)

HELP WANTED

FREELANCE WRITERS WANTED! Please send your letter and resume to: Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com. No phone calls please.

HOME SERVICES

THE CLEANING LADY, LLC. New Year, New You, let’s clean out the clutter! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just once, Airbnb’s included! Linda K. 720-8417505 or 970-263-7364.

AMBER’S HOUSE CLEANING, LLC. Here making an honest living to help make your life easier. Licensed and insured. References available. Mesa County, 970-985-8178.

HOUSECLEANER experienced, all general household chores, windows, gardening, spring clean-up. Detailoriented, hard worker, available. Call Kristin 970-361-0811.

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

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

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

MESA COUNTY

MONTROSE/DELTA

MESA COUNTY

ADRC - SOS volunteers provide rides to homebound seniors. www.htop.org/volunteers | 970-248-2746

MESA COUNTY

ADRC - SOS volunteers provide rides to homebound seniors. www.htop.org/volunteers | 970-248-2746

ADRC - SOS volunteers provide rides to homebound seniors. www.htop.org/volunteers | 970-248-2746 2

A Little Help volunteers help older adults with home projects. www.alittlehelp.org | 970-404-1923

A Little Help volunteers help older adults with home projects. www.alittlehelp.org | 970-404-1923

A Little Help volunteers help older adults with home projects. www.alittlehelp.org | 970-404-1923

Ariel Clinical Services is looking for host homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. www.arielcpa.org | 970-245-1616

Ariel Clinical Services is looking for host homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. www.arielcpa.org | 970-245-1616

Ariel Clinical Services is looking for host homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. www.arielcpa.org | 970-245-1616

Community Hospital volunteers support the hospital in various ways. codell@gjhosp.org | 970-644-3541

Community Hospital volunteers support the hospital in various ways. codell@gjhosp.org | 970-644-3541

Community Hospital volunteers support the hospital in various ways. codell@gjhosp.org | 970-644-3541

Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers serve in various positions. www.foodbankrockies.org/west ern-slope-volunteer | 970-464-1138

Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers serve in various positions. www.foodbankrockies.org/west ern-slope-volunteer | 970-464-1138

Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers serve in various positions. www.foodbankrockies.org/west ern-slope-volunteer | 970-464-1138

Grand Junction Visitor Center tourism ambassadors welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. www.visitgrandjunction.com | 970256-4054

Grand Junction Visitor Center tourism ambassadors welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. www.visitgrandjunction.com | 970256-4054

Lower Valley Heritage Room volunteers help preserve Fruita history. 970-858-3868

Lower Valley Heritage Room volunteers help preserve Fruita history. 970-858-3868

Grand Junction Visitor Center tourism ambassadors welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. www.visitgrandjunction.com | 970-256-4054

Master Gardeners teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. https://tra.extension.colostate.edu | 970-244-1834

Master Gardeners teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. https://tra.extension.colostate.edu | 970-244-1834

Lower Valley Heritage Room volunteers help preserve Fruita history. 970-858-3868

Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. 970-298-9844

Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. 970-298-9844

Master Gardeners teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. https://tra.extension.colostate. edu | 970-244-1834

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | 970243-9839

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | 970243-9839

Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. 970-298-9844

Operation Interdependence volunteers hand-write notes sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 970-523-4217

Operation Interdependence volunteers hand-write notes sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 970-523-4217

Palisade Historical Society volunteers share Palisade’s history and work on committees. 970-464-2177

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | 970-243-9839

Palisade Historical Society volunteers share Palisade’s history and work on committees. 970-464-2177

Operation Interdependence volunteers hand-write notes sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 970-523-4217

Palisade Historical Society volunteers share Palisade’s history and work on committees. 970-464-2177

MONTROSE/DELTA

Valley Symphony Association

MONTROSE/DELTA

volunteers assist with a variety of projects to support volunteer musicians who bring classical music to life on the Western Slope. info@valleysymphony.net | 970765-8323

Valley Symphony Association volunteers assist with a variety of projects to support volunteer musicians who bring classical music to life on the Western Slope. info@valleysymphony.net | 970-765-8323

Valley Symphony Association volunteers assist with a variety of projects to support volunteer musicians who bring classical music to life on the Western Slope. info@valleysymphony.net | 970765-8323

Friends of Montrose Library volunteers sort donated books and run book sales. www.montroselibrary.org | 970249-9656

Friends of Montrose Library volunteers sort donated books and run book sales. www.montroselibrary.org | 970249-9656

Friends of Montrose Library volunteers sort donated books and run book sales. www.montroselibrary.org | 970-249-9656

Golden Circle Seniors greet and serve lunch during the week. 970-252-4888

Golden Circle Seniors greet and serve lunch during the week. 970-252-4888

Golden Circle Seniors greet and serve lunch during the week. 970-252-4888

Museum of the Mountain West volunteer tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. www.museumofthemountain west.org | 970-240-3400

Museum of the Mountain West volunteer tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. www.museumofthemountain west.org | 970-240-3400

Museum of the Mountain West volunteer tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. www.museumofthemountain west.org | 970-240-3400

RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions. jwalker@region10.net | 970-765-3147

RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions. jwalker@region10.net | 970-7653147

RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions. jwalker@region10.net | 970-7653147

Senior CommUnity Meals seeks volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors. www.seniorcommunitymeals.org | 970-874-7661

Senior CommUnity Meals seeks volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors. www.seniorcommunitymeals.org | 970-874-7661

Sharing Ministries Food Bank seeks volunteers. www.sharingministries.com | 970-240-8385

Senior CommUnity Meals seeks volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors. www.seniorcommunitymeals.org | 970-874-7661

Sharing Ministries Food Bank seeks volunteers. www.sharingministries.com | 970240-8385

Sharing Ministries Food Bank seeks volunteers. www.sharingministries.com | 970240-8385

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. www.timebankoftherockies.com | 970-209-6886

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services.

Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans seeks volunteers. 970-765-2210 | www.whafv.org

www.timebankoftherockies.com | 970-209-6886

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. www.timebankoftherockies.com | 970-209-6886

Superbugs are getting stronger, our defenses are getting weaker

By David Thomas & Emily Wheeler

Drug-resistant infections pose a growing threat to public health. We’re not prepared to meet it. That’s because the pipeline of new antibiotics to fend off superbugs has fallen off.

Superbugs are strains of bacteria and fungi that have developed immunity to the medicines used to kill them. Antimicrobials are critical tools in our fight against these pathogens.

The problem is that we’re not developing nearly enough of them and many of the medicines we have are no longer effective. It’s imperative that we act now to bolster our defenses against these serious and life-threatening infections.

There are only 64 antibacterial therapeutics currently in clinical development compared to 1,300 treatments in development for various cancers. In the last 35 years, just one antibacterial with a novel way to target bacteria has been approved.

Meanwhile, superbugs continue to grow stronger. New research estimates they claimed 1.27 million lives in 2019—more than twice the estimated number of annual deaths just five years prior.

Why is our development of new antibacterials declining while new pathogens are on the rise?

The problem is not the lack of success in developing new treatments. In the past decade, antibacterial drugs in clinical trials were twice as likely to move from early human testing to FDA approval versus drugs for all other diseases.

Instead, the problem is a misaligned market for antimicrobials.

Take the experience of the biotech firm Achaogen, which secured FDA approval in 2018 for its novel

antibiotic plazomicin. While important for the overall armamentarium, novel antimicrobials are used sparingly to prevent pathogens from developing resistance to our strongest medications. As a result, clinicians hold novel antibiotics in reserve, using them judiciously to preserve effectiveness. That means companies like Achaogen don’t sell large quantities of the drugs they develop—or earn back the capital they invested in research and development.

Achaogen filed for bankruptcy in 2019. In the three years since, several other small biotech companies have seen a similar fate. The market conditions are so discouraging that most large biopharmaceutical companies have pulled out of the sector entirely.

If nothing changes, 10 million people worldwide could die of drug-resistant infections annually by 2050, surpassing cancer as a leading cause of death.

One solution is the bipartisan, bicameral Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions To End Upsurging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act, which would change the current dosebased payment model for certain antimicrobials. Another bill under consideration is the Developing an Innovative Strategy for Antimicrobial Resistant Microorganisms (DISARM) Act. The legislation would increase Medicare reimbursements for certain antimicrobials, ensuring patients have access to the best novel antibiotics for their needs. ■

David Thomas, MS, is vice president of industry research at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization. Emily Wheeler is director of infectious disease policy at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization.

Nearly 35 million Americans are living with diabetes and even more who are undiagnosed.

My Diabetic Solutions at Compass Medical Center is the only provider on the Western Slope to offer groundbreaking treatments that can stabilize, and in some cases, even reverse the complications caused by diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

Our medical team focuses on metabolic, pre-diabetic and diabetic treatments for patients suffering from neuropathy and other complications caused by diabetes. Some of these cutting-edge therapies and treatments include:

Infusion therapy

Nutrition Light therapy

Wound care

Specialized orthotic fittings

Physiologic Insulin Resensitization

About Physiologic Insulin Resensitization

This treatment program has yielded significant results from patients suffering from neuropathy and other complications caused by diabetes. Many patients reported a significant improvement in their neuropathy as well as vast improvements in other complications and a reduction in the overall use of medication.

This method has been used to treat Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, and helps pre-diabetic patients improve insulin resistance and helps cells convert sugar into energy more readily. It can also help with:

Neuropathy relief

Restored energy

Weight control

Erectile function

Retinopathy relief

Reduced use of medications

Blood sugar control

Mood and sleep improvement

Hair and nail growth

Reduced blood pressure

Reduced symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s

Accelerated stroke recovery

Reduced fatty liver