BEACON March, 2016

MARCH 2016

Vol. 30 No. 3

egacy

Create a L r time to giving you LOCAL guide

Mesa County’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 28,350 Readers.

2016 and money

FREEE IN S ID

Your Local Guid

e to Giving Your

y Time and Mone

the web at com Visit us on SeniorNews. www.Beacon

Playing it Back Built on simple acts of kindness Photo by Katherine Lopez

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www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

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MARCH 2016

EDITORIAL

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Technology is great!

Except when it isn’t.

By Kevin VanGundy

P

roduction week at the BEACON Senior Newspaper is our busiest time of the month. For the first time in our production history, we started the week with our server going down. The server is a small box of technological wonder. Inside it is every story we have ever written, all of the photos we’ve ever published and all of the client ads that we have ever built.

To give you an idea of its importance, if there were a fire, it’s the only item that I would take time to grab before rushing out of the burning building.

This was a bad way to start the week, but there was good news: We had a backup. The Apple server had taken a picture of itself just before its own death. Alas, having just witnessed its master’s own death, that slave-drive decided to commit suicide.

A small wave of panic swept over me. It was now noon. We had lost half a day from our production schedule.

I’ve heard of this happening to others, but never thought that it would happen to me. A few years ago I subscribed to an off-site backup service.

I wasn’t sure if it actually worked.

The only thing I could say for sure was that they did charge my credit

card every month.

Hallelujah! It was 22 hours later when I left the office. We had lost only one production day. Be forewarned! If there is anything you want on your computer, back it up.

And then, back that up.

Give!

The insert in this month’s paper, Create a Legacy, is your local guide about where to donate your time and money. While there are many worthy causes in the area, I think the organizations in this month’s paper deserve your extra consideration.

BeaconFest is April 21 BeaconFest is an annual event where our community comes together to celebrate aging. This year’s show will be Thursday, April 21, from 9 a.m-3 p.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center in downtown Grand Junction. Admission is free!

A few vendor booths remain Does your business sell products or services to our area’s fastest growing boomer and senior population? In addition to being an effective way to meet with them one on one (over 2,800 people attended last year), BeaconFest is also a lot of fun! Please call us at 243-8829 to get information about being a vendor at this year’s show. ■

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

APRIL 21, 2016 Two Rivers Convention Center

Downtown, Grand Junction • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

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Learn about Estate Planning at our Free Educational Workshops!

Experienced & Compassionate Estate, Trust & Tax Planning Attorneys

Protect Your Family & Assets: Beyond the Basics of Estate Planning Grand Junction: Wednesday, March 9th 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Montrose: Monday, March 14th 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

New Location! Delta: Monday, March 21st 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Later Time! Grand Junction: Tuesday, March 22nd 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Learn the ways to protect what is important to you so you can breathe easier! At this free workshop we’ll be discussing not only will and trust estate plans and advance directives, but in-depth information about how to protect your assets, heirs, special needs beneficiaries and even your pets through specialized trusts.

New Year’s Resolution Check-In: Tips for Staying Financially Fit in 2016

SPECIAL PROGRAM!

Grand Junction: Tuesday, March 8th 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Special program presented by Erin Blue, CMFC®, CRPC® a Financial Advisor from Waddell & Reed. Learn tips to stay on track, it’s not rocket science, but there are some things you should know!

Registration is Required: Grand Junction workshops (our office) - 1250 E. Sherwood Dr. Montrose - Region 10 Area Agency on Aging - 300 N. Cascade. Delta workshops 1501 E. 3rd St. in the Mesa Lakes room in the Oncology Center at Delta Hospital. Sign up by calling (970) 243-8250 or on our website at: www.brownandbrownpc.com

Phone: (970) 243-8250 1250 E. Sherwood Drive, Grand Junction, CO 817 Colorado Avenue, #206, Glenwood Springs, CO

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COVER STORY

Planning a party?

If you’d like information on reserving shelters at this park, or any other city parks, contact the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation at 254-3866 or come by their office at 1340 Gunnison Avenue.

Hours are Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For detailed information including fees, regulations, concessionaire requirements and forms, visit their website at gjcity.org.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

Pop’s Playground Built on simple acts of kindness

By Melanie Wiseman

T

hroughout most of her teaching career, Nancy Leane displayed a sign in her classroom that said ‘No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted,’ by Aesop. Both Nancy and her husband, John, have lived their lives according to this mantra dear to their hearts. Pop’s Playground is a living tribute to its truth.

Part of the family Raising four young, active children in the early 1970s in Indianapolis, John and Nancy were grateful for the help they received from their babysitter Kathy Welsh.

“Kathy was just 12 when she first babysat for us. She became like another family member, and even came on vacations with us,” said Nancy. “She was pretty open about her family’s issues, the heartache and tough times she was having at home.”

“Kathy was an exceptional kid,” said John. “She

was a jock, and she and I had fun playing tennis, shooting hoops and running,” said John. “She and Nancy spent more time just talking.” “I got to share my faith with her and that was very important,” said Nancy.

Where Nancy and John felt they were just being kind and doing what came naturally, to Kathy, their outreach took on special meaning.

“I spent most of seven years at their home. Meeting them was my role model for what a loving, kind and fun family and marriage looked like. Nancy showed me what a good woman, wife and mom was,” said Kathy. “It was a happy house. They let me experience a home that was normal. My personal family was not like that.”

In 1978, Kathy graduated high school and went off to college, and the Leanes moved to Grand Junction.

They saw each other two years later in 1980, but their lives took different directions, and it was 27 years before they connected again.

The Leane children grew up and John, 70, and Nancy, 71, eventually became the proud grandparents of eleven. Nancy taught grade school and John was a county commissioner, worked for the City of Grand Junction overseeing the adult softball program, and was involved in the Grand Valley Little League.

“He added to the emotional stability of that sport,” said Nancy. “John was always kind to people and built relationships in the community.”

Meanwhile, both Kathy and husband Gary, 55, went on to become successful business people, raising three well-educated and kind chil-

dren of their own. Kathy started the Play 2 Dream Foundation in 2009, with the goal of building one playground per year over 15 years. These playgrounds focus on accessibility for children and adults of all physical and mental abilities to experience fun, fitness and skill building.

Devastating news leads to purpose During the winter of 2013, John learned that he had stage-four colon cancer, now in remission. “When Kathy and Gary found out that John had cancer, they were just devastated and wanted to know what they could do,” said Nancy. “Kathy wanted to do something that John could enjoy.”

“She called and said she had this foundation that builds playgrounds and she’d like to build one in my name,” said John. “My initial thought was she meant in Boston, but she said ‘No, in Grand Junction.’”

“We simply couldn’t believe it,” said Nancy.

“When I found out John was sick, I wanted to honor him in a positive way,” said Kathy. “The Leanes saved me and so did sports. John has always been into physical fitness and believes in the importance of getting out and meeting people by playing sports.”

“From day one it was all about making the playground available to anyone of any age or ability,” said John.

“I didn’t know these things existed.”

“It’s not like Kathy sat back and wrote a check,” said Nancy. “Not a bolt went into that playground that she didn’t know about.”

MARCH 2016

COVER STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

“One of the things I enjoy most is sitting somewhere near the playground, closing my eyes and just listening to the happy, joyful sounds.”

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher ..............................Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher....................... Susan Capps Editor............................................. Nancy Ruspil Editor at Large............................... Cloie Sandlin Senior Graphic Designer............ Melissa Trottier Graphic Design/Photography....Katherine Lopez Graphic Design.............................. Karen Jones Account Representative................... Sue Bowen Account Representative................ Sidney Jayne Account Representative...............Carolyn Takos Proofreaders............ Jan Weeks, Pamela Larson Cheerleader................................... Genevra Shal Delivery...........................................Cora Gentry Delivery ................................. Lauren VanGundy

– John Leane, aka Pop’s The Canyon View Park playground was at the end of its life and in need of replacement. The City of Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department was thrilled to work with the Play 2 Dream Foundation on this super-sized project.

“Our working relationship with the City of Grand Junction was cooperative and collaborative,” said Kathy.

“I love the idea of ‘it takes a village.’

We all have skills and can contribute to make our communities a better place, especially for children. Building this playground was about lots of folks contributing time, money, skills and knowledge.”

Play 2 Dream Foundation and Pop’s Playground With the input of John and Nancy, all 11 Leane grandchildren, as well as community kids and adults, Pop’s Playground was dedicated on May 8, 2015.

Since John is known as “Pop” to all of his grandchildren, the playground’s name was an easy decision. It was the fifth playground built by the Play 2 Dream Foundation since 2010.

“Three are in the 500-acre Franklin

Park in the center of Boston where people have no back yards and school playgrounds are concrete,” said Kathy. “One is in the Franklin Park Zoo (with 60,000 kid visits each year) and incorporates the zoo animals right in the design.

People are now coming back to the zoo for the playground.”

Today, Pop’s Playground has become a destination. “It’s like Disneyland. The biggest playground anywhere around. I’ve never seen anything like it,” said John. “One of the things I enjoy most is sitting somewhere near the playground, closing my eyes and just listening to the happy, joyful sounds.”

The Play 2 Dream Foundation is dedicated to the support of letting kids be kids by having fun with fitness in a healthy environment. “Kids need to have a place to laugh and have free, spontaneous play,” said Kathy. “A place for kids and families to get exercise the old fashioned way, by just moving and having fun.”

Pop’s Playground includes an adult fitness area, benches and covered picnic table areas, which enhance

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the large colorful play areas separated by age groups. The playground has many unique learning stations and features, making it accessible and fun for kids of all abilities.

“We want all children to be included,” said Kathy. “Those in wheelchairs, walkers, visually impaired, autistic and so on. Individuals with disabilities actually helped me in the planning of the playgrounds.”

Life lessons “I am truly paying it back,” said Kathy. “This is my thank you to John and Nancy for being there and saving me. I am that little girl who needed a loving family to take me in and tell me they cared about me. That is what John and Nancy gave me—a happy, loving family, a place to be safe, loved and appreciated and a place to laugh.”

“It’s been emotional, and still is,” said John. “Pop’s Playground seems like an awfully big thank you for what to me was just something I did for fun and came natural.”

“It’s a good life lesson,” said Nancy.

“All of us need to realize that every single thing we do matters and you have no idea how it might impact someone.” ■

John and Nancy with all 11 of their grandchildren, at the ribbon cutting of Pop’s Playground.

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P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 ph: 970.243.8829 fax: 800.536.7516 Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com E-mail: Beacon@ PendantPublishing.com The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month. Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta & Montrose counties.

Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Display advertising rates are available upon request. Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication. © Copyright 2016 • All Rights Reserved

Cover Photo: Pop’s Playground is Kathy Welsh’s thank you to John (left) and Nancy (Right) Leane.

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FEATURE STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

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By Nancy Ruspil

A

recurring theme has played through Kirk Gustafson’s mind during decades of Grand Junction Symphony performances: “How amazingly lucky I am to be with this orchestra and to conduct this piece.”

“I still feel that way,” Gustafson adds.

After 28 years of leading the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra (GJSO) as music director/conductor, Gustafson will take his last bow at the Symphony’s “A Grand Finale” concert on April 19.

He still exudes the passionate energy that he brought to GJSO in 1987. He still has the intense, twinkling eyes. And, he still feels grateful for everyone he works with—in fact, that gratitude has grown tenfold.

“I’ll miss the relationships, all of them…with musicians, board members, staff and patrons,” Gustafson says. “We’ve been an honest team, and we’ve consistently built this orchestra together, artistically and financially.”

Gustafson values his bonds with the musicians. “We were able to grow through mutual effort and mutual trust. And we developed strong communication,” he says. “I give most cues with my eyes, or sometimes with a nod or a smile. We understand each other.”

Along with those relationships, Gustafson will treasure memories such as the first time he conducted the “Verdi Requiem” with this orchestra. “It was very moving,” he says. “Conducting is such a balance between technical clarity and inspiration. With a piece like that, the inspiration really takes over.”

When Gustafson leaves the podium, we’ll see him conducting his own repertoire—fishing at sunrise, training his dog and horse, teaching at CMU, flying his plane, duck hunting and working on his family farm in Idaho.

“These years turned out exactly the way I hoped they would,” he says.

“It’s been a great run.”

MARCH 2016

Back when I was a student playing with the Young Artists Orchestra, we were working on a Rossini Overture. Dr. Gustafson was conducting and the oboe and clarinet players, who had the main line of the melody, began. They were very focused on their music and forgot to look up. They started rushing the beat—at first just a little, and then a little faster, and a little faster.

Dr. Gustafson continued directing the beat, trying to catch their eyes to show it to them, but they didn’t notice. Faster and faster...until Dr. Gustafson put down his baton and shouted, “YEE-HAW!” —Megan Miller, GJSO Violinist

During my tenure as a member of the Grand Junction Symphony Board of Directors, including board presidency, I have truly appreciated Kirk’s tremendous commitment to providing high quality symphonic music to the citizens of the Grand Valley.

In addition, his dedication to quality music education is second to none and he has challenged the talented orchestra members to perform at only the highest level.

—Karen Hildebrandt

FEATURE STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Thank You

Maestro Gustafson What comes to my mind first is the image of Kirk leading the Grand Junction Symphony in so many outstanding concerts, as well as his sensitivity and guidance in the growth of the musicians.

One of my later teaching opportunities at CMU was with Kirk, in a topics class offered by Gordon Gilbert, a physics professor. Dr. Gilbert invited a number of guest lecturers to speak about symmetry in terms of their own disciplines. I, of course, projected slide images of architecture and paintings, but the day that Kirk Gustafson showed up, he brought along his cello and proceeded to demonstrate how symmetry is manifested in music, much to the delight of the class. He was, and is, an impeccable performer in his own right, and there is no more effective way to comprehend theory in almost any subject than to say, “Here, I’ll show you how mathematical structure plays out in music.”

—Don Meyers

We always appreciated Kirk’s ability to find a balance between expecting excellence of performance, while never pushing beyond the capabilities of what the orchestra could realistically accomplish at any given time.

I remember experiencing that same kind of philosophy when I served on the sub-committee of the Board that confers with Kirk every year as he chooses repertoire for the following year. Sometimes we would suggest works that Kirk felt they weren’t ready for, yet I noted that in later years, they did perform some of those works. They made so much progress over the years that Kirk was musical director!

—Ellen and Ron Bradley

I have been on the Grand Junction Symphony board for about four years now. I currently serve as the vice president. I would like to say that I have so much respect for Kirk’s vast knowledge of classical music and his willingness to give his audiences a

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deeper understanding of the pieces. I also love his ability to share a good laugh; how many orchestra conductors would agree to a billboard featuring their face attached to a body wearing a tutu?

Thanks to Kirk for his many years of providing beautiful music to our community!

—Barbara Ciperano

Kirk has challenged and encouraged us with his choice of repertoire and standards, and this benefit to the symphony and the community cannot be over-emphasized. One occasion in particular stands out: We were rehearsing Brahms’ First Symphony and not responding appropriately. Kirk said, “Folks, this is BRAHMS and he deserves more...” Kirk was so quietly disappointed, and that said everything about his dedication to music.

Kirk is a terrific teacher and has a great sense of humor as well – we will miss him tremendously!

—Noelle Smith, GJSO Cellist

You can learn more about Kirk Gustafson and the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra at www.gjso.org. ■

Photos courtesy of Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra

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www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

A grandparent’s surprise

By Joyce Corley

A

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t 49, becoming a grandparent was one of the last things I anticipated. Being a parent and a teacher for many years left me relatively unscathed, and now it was time for me to live my life with the objectives I had personally set for myself. I still felt vibrant and alive, and I had worked hard to become successful, so we had a little money to splurge on travel and other cultural expeditions that we had always been too busy to pursue.

We travelled extensively during the summers when I had a month off work from my school district, and we enjoyed every moment. My family was always concerned about our being gone so much.

When my son married and announced they were expecting a child later that year, I was actually surprised. Of course we all anticipated the baby’s arrival, but one of my biggest concerns was what it would mean to me.

What would my friends think?

After all, I would be the first of my

group to have a grandchild. What should I have the child call me? I definitely didn’t want to be called GRANDMA! It sounded so archaic. I announced at a family dinner that I wanted to be called Grand’Mere or Nana! They all just rolled their eyes.

All of these concerns raced around my head as the baby’s due date approached. I also wondered about the personality and talents of this little one. Would he or she love me, or even like me?

In early September a healthy baby girl arrived—Jessica! We were so excited, and we all talked to Jessica through the observation window in the hospital nursery, telling her who we were.

Suddenly everyone stopped talking and stared at me. “What?”

I asked. My son and husband both laughed, “You just said you were Grandma!” I, too, was surprised to hear myself say that—but gee, it was true wasn’t it?

Isn’t it amazing what babies can do to you? How could such a little creature change your whole perspective? ■

all the more reason to learn the language the sun speaks when it touches the meadow in spring, and then speak like that to each other.

- Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer

MARCH 2016

ASK THE OLD BAG

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ASK THE OLD BAG Advice Column for the Over 50 Crowd

By Gayle Lagman-Creswick Dear Old Bag: Friendship ads don’t fly. A new exchange called “Women Only Friendships” is needed. I’m lonely also. I want a person or persons with the same interests. We will know up front that SEX isn’t the #1 issue— friendship is. Everyone knows to pay their own way. Time for something new. Been there. Thank you, D Dear D: I am getting more and more emails from women who just want some buddies whom they can call for eating out, going to movies, plays, games, or other activities. Perhaps we could ask our publisher to have a section of the Friendship ads for Friendship Only, or some such name. You have asked that I connect you with the other lonely woman who wrote in, but I cannot. Good luck, OB Dear Old Bag: Last month you heard from a woman who stated she didn’t like it when a man at first meeting was touching her and talking about cuddling, etc. My letter is to let you know that this is not a “woman only” problem. I have faced the same thing with the tables turned. Women hinting about cuddling and always touching and rubbing my arm at our first meeting. Maybe some men like it, but I don’t. I want to get to know a person first, and then if it is mutual, we will progress in a natural way. Thank you, RB Dear RB: I had not thought about this being a two-way street...thank you for writing...my readers never cease to surprise and educate me! OB Dear Old Bag: It seems that you have had several readers who are having a hard time “getting on with their life” after a death or divorce. I think your advice was good, and I would like to add a suggestion that they should get

a professional life coach. Coaching is becoming highly popular among younger people to reach their goals. I think it would be really good for older people too. This is for people who do not need counseling, but could use a boost to get going. I think if you Google for a life coach in your area, you will find one to interview...Shop around, like you would for a dentist or a doctor, until you find one that suits you. Signed, O.G.

Dear O.G.: What a good suggestion.

Our church even has a life coach. I still recommend grief support after the death of a loved one. If people don’t grieve, they often stay stuck in their despair for years. After that a coach would be a great idea. Actually, the process of healing after divorce is very much like getting through a death and these people could probably use the same kind of support.

Thank you. OB Dear Old Bag: Excerpt from a longer letter in response to the woman who needed assistance, saying she wanted to live with her son, but the son and his wife felt assisted living would be a better option for her: First, there is a medical distinction between assisted living and independent living. Readers must learn the differences between these licensed facilities and also the third potential option of skilled nursing. Signed, V.

Dear V: I totally agree with you.

There are many kinds of sheltered living, from independent to inpatient hospice. I actually teach a class that describes the numerous first-stage, second-stage, and third-stage retirement housing options. I also describe some of the options available when you run out of money for care. OB ■

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

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THE HEALTHY GEEZER

Senior Homecare by Angels

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

Can I stop taking my prescription antibiotics as soon as I start to feel better?

Healthy Geezer, By Fred Cicetti

N

ext you’ll tell me you prefer not to cover your mouth when you cough.

Taking antibiotics unnecessarily and not completing your prescription are the leading causes of “superbugs,” bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.

These superbugs are one of the most serious threats to global public health.

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The first thing you should know is that antibiotics are used to combat bacteria, not viruses. So, these potent drugs should be used for infections of the ear, sinuses, urinary tract and skin.

They’re also used to treat strep throat.

They should not be used for viruses that cause most sore throats, coughs, colds and flu.

However, each year doctors in the USA write about 50 million antibiotic prescriptions for viral illnesses anyway.

Patient pressure is a major cause for these prescriptions.

When you don’t finish your prescription, your antibiotic doesn’t kill all the targeted bacteria. The germs that survive build up resistance to the drug you’re taking. Doctors are then forced to prescribe a stronger antibiotic. The bacteria learn to fight the stronger medication. Superbugs are smart, too; they can share information with other bacteria.

The antibiotic vancomycin was, for years, a reliable last defense against some severe infections. But some superbugs have figured out how to resist even vancomycin.

More than 70 percent of the bacteria that cause hospital-acquired infections

are resistant to at least one of the antibiotics most commonly used to treat them. About 100,000 people die each year from infections they contract in the hospital, often because the bacteria that cause hospital-acquired infections are resistant to antibiotics.

Here’s what you can do about this problem: • Protect yourself by washing your hands often, handling and preparing food safely, and keeping up-to-date on immunizations.

• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed.

If you cut your treatment short, you kill the vulnerable bacteria, but allow the resistant bacteria to live.

• Never take leftover antibiotics from your medicine cabinet or from a friend. The antibiotic might not be the right one to use. And, if it is, you probably won’t have enough pills to kill the germs in your system. This can lead to more resistant bacteria.

• Don’t pressure your doctor for antibiotics if you have a viral illness.

Penicillin, which was introduced six decades ago, was the first antibiotic. It was derived from mold. We now have more than 150 of these drugs. Antibiotics are a class of antimicrobials, a group that includes anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic drugs.

Previous treatments for infections included poisons such as strychnine and arsenic. When antibiotics arrived, they were called “magic bullets,” because they targeted disease without harming the host. ■

Send your general health questions to the Healthy Geezer in care of the BEACON, or email fred@healthygeezer.com.

MARCH 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS 11

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

This is why I threw out my multivitamin Dear Pharmacist, By Suzy Cohen, RPH

I

used to think multivitamins filled a nutritional gap, but today I think differently. There’s no way that 1.7 mg of any B vitamin will boost energy, or 20 mg of magnesium could improve mood. I’m beginning to realize that multivitamins are an absolute joke! It’d be funny except the joke’s on us, and you spent good money on them. Here’s my rationale:

Negligible amounts: There are so many nutrients in a multivitamin that the amounts of each become negligible. For example, 1 mg of pyridoxine (B6) doesn’t impact you metabolically speaking. I think it’s on the label “for show” as clearly this amount doesn’t optimize health. By the time this 1 mg gets past your digestive tract, hardly anything could have made it to your blood stream, no less your nerves where B6 is required. The same goes for cyanocobalamin, a typical form of vitamin B12. One popular multi-billion-dollar-producing brand has 1 mcg cyanocobalamin in it! MICROGRAM folks, that is just one-thousandth of a milligram. With hundreds of B12 dependent metabolic reactions (including methylation), what do you think that 1 microgram does for you? I’ll tell you, nothing! It’s there for show.

Allergies: Multivitamins have upwards of 68 different ingredients, some of which are synthetic – are you sure you’re not allergic to this stuff?

Inactive forms: It’s one thing to take insignificant amounts of a nutrient, but there are usually completely inactive vitamins in your multivitamin, and they remain inactive until converted by your liver to something that could work. After you take cyanocobalamin B12, your body breaks it into cyanide

and cobalamin, and then you have to methylate it. Superior forms of B12 are methylcobalamin, hydroxycobalamin or adenosylcobalamin.

Potential toxins: Let’s revisit that cyanocobalamin B12 – what I consider to be inferior to other B12 supplements.

It contains minute amounts of cyanide, which has low potential to do harm when bound to organic cobalamin, but still, I don’t want it in my body, even in teeny-tiny amounts.

Cramps and diarrhea: Yep, you could get that due to the addition of cheap forms of magnesium such as the “oxide” form. Gentler forms of magnesium include the “chelated” forms, or threonate, or glycinate.

Artificial colors: One popular brand contains three artificial colors FD&C Red #40, Blue #2 and Yellow #6 and there is a controversy over the safety of those dyes.

The greatest deception is that the minerals from these multivitamins will get into your bones. Magnesium oxide and calcium carbonate don’t penetrate your bone cells well. They have a tough time leaving your intestines.

In my humble opinion, it’s not possible to take a multivitamin once daily that contains biologically active ingredients and has them in dosages that advance your health. This is why I threw out my multivitamins. You can get biologically active nutrients if you just eat real food, nothing from a box or can. Your diet should include the basics like salads, greens, nuts, seeds, citrus fruits, berries and of course, lean, clean protein. We need to stop fooling ourselves into thinking we can eat garbage and take one tiny pill to fix it all! ■

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H I L LT O P’S S E N I O R D AY B R E A K

Celebrate National Napping Day!

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arch 14 is National Napping Day, so we should all celebrate by catching a few extra guilt-free Zzzzs! Scheduled each year, for the Monday following daylight savings time when we spring forward and our inner clock may need extra time to adjust, National Napping Day brings up some interesting questions.

Is there anything wrong with celebrating napping every day of the year? Are there any benefits to napping? When is a long nap too much of a good thing?

More than 85 percent of mammals sleep for short periods throughout the day. Humans are part of the 15 percent minority who are monophasic sleepers, meaning that our days are divided into two distinct periods, one for sleep and one for wakefulness. It is unclear whether this is the natural sleep pattern of humans. The ideal pattern for human sleep is biphasic, a long stretch at night along with a shorter respite during the day. It’s widely accepted that young children and elderly persons nap, for example, and napping is a very important aspect of many cultures.

As a nation, the United States appears to be becoming mor Maybe it’s time we all join the company of famous nappers such as Winston Churchill, John F. Kennedy, Albert Einstein, Ronald Reagan, Napoleon and Thomas Edison.

The benefits of napping

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1. Napping boosts alertness - Naps can restore alertness, enhance performance, and reduce mistakes and accidents. A study at NASA on sleepy military pilots and astronauts found that a 40-minute nap im-

proved performance by 34 percent and alertness 100 percent. Studies have shown that if you break up your day with a nap, you will be as alert and energetic for the second part of your day as you were for the first. A quick nap before driving your car reduces the risk of a drowsy driving car accident.

2. Napping improves learning and working memory - Naps improve your ability to work on tasks that are complex, requiring your attention in one direction while holding other things in your memory.

Napping also improves your memory retention. During sleep, recent memories are transferred to the part of your brain where long-term memories are solidified and stored.

A team of German neuropsychologists found that napping after learning something can make your memory of that information five times better than if you had stayed awake afterward.

3. Napping improves mood - Think back to the last time you were around a toddler who hadn’t napped, and it’s not a pretty picture. Even as adults, sleepiness and the associated crankiness doesn’t feel good. Serotonin in our bodies regulates our mood, sleep and appetites. It produces the feeling of contentment and well-being.

When our bodies are stressed from lack of sleep, serotonin production is blocked and we can become anxious, irritable, depressed and overwhelmed. Napping is like a warm shower of serotonin, reversing these negative effects for a more positive outlook.

4. Napping zaps stress - The National Sleep Foundation recommends considering a nap a “mini-vacation.”

Their study found that asleep or not, a short period spent resting

MARCH 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS 13

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A short nap of 20-30 minutes can help to improve mood, alertness, intelligence and overall health. can be a great relaxing stress-reliever, calm your nerves and get you smiling again. A mid-day “power nap” can reverse the usual willpower drain from morning to night, reducing stress and restoring focus.

5. Napping enhances creativity - The mind loves a nap. According to sleep scientist, Sara C. Mednick, napping can improve your sensory perception as effectively as a night of sleep. This means food tastes better, the sunset looks more beautiful, and music sounds even better after a good nap. Naps can “enhance creative thinking, boost cognitive processing, improve memory recall and generally clear out the cobwebs,” according to founders of Sleep for Success.

6. Napping improves your health and protects your heart - Many of us find it nearly impossible to get enough sleep at night, and sleep deprivation causes a host of bodily and mental ills. Lack of adequate sleep can weaken the muscular and immune systems, lead to diabetes and heart disease, and increase stress, anxiety and weight gain. Studies show that making naps a habit is associated with lower blood pressure, and a 37 percent less risk of dying from a heart-related condition.

Napping gives your brain a chance to rest and your body a chance to heal. Johns Hopkins research shows that napping may even help prevent dementia.

7. Napping keeps you from overeating - The less you sleep, the more likely you are to gain weight, according to a Stanford University study. Researchers discovered that a lack of sleep triggers your body’s production of the hormone that makes you want to eat more, and lowers levels of the hormone that tells you when you’re full.

8. Napping is better than caffeine If you need to recharge, don’t lean

on caffeine. Studies show that when naps are compared to caffeine, overall, the nap improved performance in memory, motor skills and learning, where caffeine impaired or did not benefit performance. You may feel more wired, but you are also prone to making more mistakes.

Napping tips • A short nap of 20-30 minutes is usually recommended for alertness, without leaving you feeling groggy or interfering with nighttime sleep.

• Your napping environment can greatly impact your ability to fall asleep. Make sure you have a restful place to lie down and that the temperature in the room is comfortable. Try to limit the amount of noise heard (consider ear plugs) and light filtering in (consider an eye mask).

• Taking a nap too late in the day may interfere with nighttime sleep patterns and make it difficult to fall asleep at your regular bedtime. If you try napping too early in the day, your body may not be ready for more sleep. Postlunch napping between 1 pm and 3 pm is recommended.

• After napping, be sure to give yourself time to wake up before resuming activities, especially those that require a quick or sharp response.

• Keep in mind that getting enough sleep on a regular basis is the best way to stay alert and feel your best. But when fatigue sets in, a quick nap can do wonders for your mental and physical stamina.

Instead of thinking of a nap as a luxury or sign of slacking off, view it as recharging yourself on a mini-vacation. On that note, you’ll have to excuse me. It’s time for my nap. Zzzzzz….. ■

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Media fast Jan Weeks

T

he night I found myself slouched on the couch, watching reruns of M*A*S*H and Andy Griffith for the thousandth time while I played 400 games of computer solitaire on my laptop, I said to myself, “Self, something’s gotta give!” Rubbing my numb wrist and wishing I could rub my numbed brain, I shut off both electronic devices and vowed, “No TV and no computer games for a whole week!”

Television came to Iowa when I was about 5. The small black and white set broadcast only a few hours a day, most notably “Captain Midnight” (yes, I sent away for the decoder ring—and I hate Ovaltine to this day!) and the CBS Evening News, which at that time was accompanied by the largo from Copeland’s “Appalachian Spring” (which became my first LP record a few years later). As more and more people became mesmerized by “the boob tube,” Shari Lewis and her band of merry puppets

appeared, as did Captain Kangaroo and Romper Room, along with soap operas and sitcoms and that Sunday night staple, “The Ed Sullivan Show.”

With a creek and a park nearby, we kids didn’t spend a lot of time in front of the set. We were too busy tracking rabbits in the snow, picking violets for May baskets, and splashing in the pool or performing daring feats on the monkey bars. Even as an adult, I always had some knitting or embroidery in hand when Hubby Number Two and I settled in for an evening of cable viewing.

So I was pretty surprised when I now found myself glued to the set every evening. Yes, it was time to go back to those simpler days of yesteryear, even though I’d outgrown the monkey bars.

All day Monday I felt quite righteous about my decision—until 6 pm rolled around and I found myself reaching for the TV tray so I could eat supper with Radar, Hawkeye, Hot Lips, and the rest of the cast. Uh-oh! I shoved the tray back into the coat closet and set the table, book included. After dinner, I curled up on the couch and read more.

On Tuesday I checked four books out of the library, something I hadn’t done since Heck was a pup. I took them back, thoroughly perused, three days later. I’d cooked with Julia Child, designed clothes with Coco Chanel, admired Katherine Hepburn’s audacity, and gone to England to help solve a murder. An evening out with friends, a frenzy of cleaning, and more, more, more books filled the week. And I didn’t miss TV. In lieu of solitaire, I signed on to duolingo.com and challenged myself to finish the German language course I’d started a year earlier—and keep up with the French and Spanish courses, too. It was almost as much fun as flipping cards with the flick of a finger, and I was getting darned good at reading German. I even dug out an English novel translated into German that I’d bought in Munich in 2001 and started reading it. Slowly.

As the week crept past, I found that I didn’t automatically reach for the remote and the mouse. I was learning a whole new way of filling my evenings. Saturday tested my resolve when the time rolled around for “This

MARCH 2016

Old House,” my favorite home show. I resisted and took a long walk instead.

At 7 a.m. on Sunday, I had to break the habit of years. “BS Sunday Morning” has been my go-to, have-to-see program for a decade. I gazed longingly at the black screen, thinking, “I’m the only one who’ll know.” Instead I went out on the patio and took deep breaths of crisp winter air until the urge passed.

Oh, blessed Monday! My self-imposed exile from the tube was over. I took a long walk over the hill behind my house, then stopped by my neighbor’s place. He has a TV and a keg of beer in his workshop. I was in heaven as we half-watched Judge Judy and sipped a couple of brewskis. Then we moved on to the evening news.

Surprisingly, in a week nothing had changed. The Donald was still bloviating, the East was still buried with storms, bombs were still going off all over the world, and bulls and bears were still wrangling on Wall Street.

Seems I hadn’t missed much after all.

When I got home, I picked up a book.

On Tuesday, I set up the TV tray, turned on ME TV and powered up the laptop. After an hour and only a couple dozen games of solitaire, I’d had enough. I shut everything down and plowed through six pages of the German novel. I slept the sleep of the just that night.

I have found that my world doesn’t revolve around media anymore. The debilitating cramp in my neck and shoulder from using the mouse for hours has gone away. When I watch TV, I pay more attention to what and why I’m watching. When Barney’s locking himself in the Mayberry jail for the umpteenth time, the set goes off and the book comes out. Or the journal. Or the watercolor set. The kitchen cabinets get organized and the ironing gets finished.

Will I ever go back to my profligate media days? Probably not, except my “Downton Abbey: Season Six” DVDs have arrived. Temptation with a British accent. Where’s that darned remote? ■

MARCH 2016

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 15

Much ado about sugar and grain

By Paige Slaughter

A

long with a rule-defying political campaign, 2016 has brought us new Dietary Guidelines – the government’s official recommendations for what we eat. Side-stepping controversial advice from the advisory committee, like cutting back on red and processed meats and practicing sustainability in our food-buying decisions, the administration did put forward a major change: Limit sugar to 10 percent or less of daily calories.

Our ancestors thrived on real foods and grain-based meals. But in a modern world, how do we cut back on sugar and still enjoy eating, like nature always intended?

It’s hardly practical to count calories and calculate sugar percentages on a daily basis. Fortunately, eating for wellness is about making small, mindful dietary decisions that taste good and feel good—no math required.

We know the obvious culprits: candy, soft drinks and sweeteners are full of sugar. But the fact is, many processed and packaged foods contain corn syrups, dextran, diastase, fructose, maltose and glucose, all of which are aliases for sugar—and there are dozens more.

A simple grocery store motto: If an ingredient ends with “-ose,” or you

can hardly pronounce it, it’s probably worth avoiding.

Another eating for wellness practice is to get to know your grains.

Dieting trends have gone back and forth about carbs and gluten often enough to give us whiplash and give grains a bad name. But whole grains (not heavily processed products or enriched flours) actually help regulate blood sugar in the body and equip us with steady energy. These complex carbohydrates also provide our bodies with fiber, protein, healthy fats, Vitamins A, B, C and E, iron and calcium.

Try eliminating all carbohydrates from your diet for a few weeks, then reintroduce whole grains one at a time to see how you feel. By bringing awareness to your food-buying habits, and noticing how different grains make you feel, you can reduce your sugar intake and enjoy food in a whole new way. ■

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LAUGHING MATTERS Cured!

Submitted by Susan Capps

An old geezer became very bored in retirement and decided to open a medical clinic.

He put a sign up outside that said: Dr. Geezer’s clinic. Get your treatment for $500. If not cured, get back $1,000.

Doctor Young, who was positive that this old geezer didn’t know beans about medicine, thought this would be a great opportunity to get $1,000. So he went to Dr. Geezer’s clinic.

Dr. Young: Dr. Geezer, I have lost all taste in my mouth. Can you please help me??

Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from box 22 and put 3 drops in Dr. Young’s mouth.

Dr. Young: Aaagh!! This is gasoline!

Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You’ve got your taste back. That will be $500.

Dr. Young gets annoyed and goes back after a couple of days, figuring to recover his money.

Dr. Young: I have lost my memory, I cannot remember anything.

Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from box 22 and put 3 drops in the patient’s mouth.

Dr. Young: Oh, no you don’t, that is gasoline!

Dr. Geezer: Congratulations!

You’ve got your memory back.

That will be $500.

Dr. Young (after having lost $1,000) leaves angrily and comes back after several more days.

Dr. Young: My eyesight has become weak—I can hardly see anything!

Dr. Geezer: Well, I don’t have any medicine for that, so here’s your

$1,000 back (giving him a $10 bill).

Dr. Young: But this is only $10!

Dr. Geezer: Congratulations!

You got your vision back! That will be $500.

These great questions and answers are from the days when “Hollywood Squares” game show responses were spontaneous, not scripted . . .

Q. Which of your five senses tends to diminish as you get older?

A. Charley Weaver: My sense of decency.

Q. As you grow older, do you tend to gesture more or less with your hands while talking?

A. Rose Marie: You ask me one more growing-old question, Peter, and I’ll give you a gesture you’ll never forget.

MARCH 2016

Q. Charley, you’ve just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year?

A. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I’m too busy growing strawberries.

Q. During a tornado, are you safer in the bedroom or in the closet?

A. Rose Marie: Unfortunately, Peter, I’m always safe in the bedroom.

Q. If you were pregnant for two years, what would you give birth to?

A. Paul Lynde: Whatever it is, it would never be afraid of the dark.

Q. According to Ann Landers, what are two things you should never do in bed?

A. Paul Lynde: Point and laugh.

Boss Submitted by Bob Breazeale

Recently, the boss hired this dubious-looking guy from Los Angeles.

At the end of his first working day, the

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MARCH 2016

LAUGHING MATTERS 17

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boss said to him, “I’ve been watching you work today and I think you’ve done the work of three men.”

The guy looked very surprised and could only mumble, “Thank you.”

The boss said, “Don’t thank me. The three men I’m thinking of are Larry, Moe and Curly.”

• I stayed up all night to see where the sun went, and then it dawned on me.

• This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I’m sure I’d never met herbivore.

• When chemists die, they barium.

• I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. I just can’t put it down.

One-Liners Submitted by Neva Dunham

• Venison for dinner again? Oh deer!

• I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words.

• A cartoonist was found dead in his home. Details are sketchy.

• I didn’t like my beard at first. Then it grew on me.

• I used to be a banker, but then I lost interest.

• Did you hear about the cross-eyed teacher who lost her job because she couldn’t control her pupils.

• Haunted French pancakes give me the crêpes.

• Broken pencils are pointless.

• England has no kidney bank, but it does have a Liverpool.

• What do you call a dinosaur with an extensive vocabulary? A thesaurus.

• I tried to catch some fog, but I mist.

• I dropped out of Communism class because of lousy Marx.

• They told me I had type-A blood, but it was a Typo.

• I changed my iPod’s name to Titanic.

It’s syncing now.

• Jokes about German sausage are the wurst.

• I got a job at a bakery because I kneaded dough.

• Velcro - what a rip off!

• Don’t worry about old age; it doesn’t last. ■

• I know a guy who’s addicted to brake fluid, but he says he can stop any time.

Hahaha

s U e k a M

! h g u La

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MARCH 2016

970West Studio

By Jan Weeks

A

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slight echo whispers through the sparely furnished room.

Sound baffles and black background curtains lend an alien feeling to the space. Only the boom microphones hint at the function of the building.

Mesa County Libraries has added a new twist to the traditional book model by opening 970West Studio, to encourage folks to express their creativity by moving into the digital age.

Library Director Joseph Sanchez says, “I think libraries are moving toward service and education—more programs, more trainings, more curation of local material and more networking between people and stakeholders in the community. Whereas we used to be involved in more static and one-dimensional forms of literacy, we are now supporting broader types of literacy like information and tech literacy. We’ve definitely had great feedback on these new services!”

According to Bob Kretschman, public information manager for Mesa County Libraries, many older people have used the studio to record memories and life stories of friends and family since the studio opened November 1, 2015. “Even though many younger people use the studio, we even had a World War II veteran in his mid-90s come in out of curiosity,” he adds.

“We have a multimedia production studio with cameras, microphones, sound baffles, lights and headphones, among other equipment,” Kretschman says. The 650-square-foot area can hold up to 20 people. PDF downloads of equipment manuals are available through the website. The studio is available in blocks of two to three hours. Anyone wishing to use it must first attend an orientation class for which they must register. “We also have a price list, so if someone damages equipment, the library must be reimbursed,” he says. The library has invested in good cameras and microphones because quality matters. A roll-up cargo door allows those who wish to use their instruments or other equipment, such as pianos, move them into the hall directly from the parking area behind the building.

After recording video or audio, patrons can perform their own production work in the 460-square-foot control room across the hall, using sound boards, video editing equipment and software to create finished products.

“We don’t do any engineering work,” Kretschman stresses, “but we do have classes in studio set-up for audio and for video, introduction to digital photography, introduction to Photoshop, and walk-in orientations.”

When the studio first opened, local professionals who make a living engineering production were miffed. “We had lots of calls and many letters to the editor,” Kretschman says. “However, when we explained that we are not in business to do finished product, they seemed to be okay with it. I think that many users will hire professionals to do the cutting, sound editing, and other services, once they’ve got their projects roughed out.”

David Goe, marketing coordinator for Mesa County Libraries, installed and set up all the audio equipment and gives classes on how to use it. “One person can do it,“ Goe says, pointing to a table filled with sleek computers. “We have iPads available or people can

MARCH 2016

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Retirement living with the emphasis on living

use their own to set sound levels in the recording studio. That way it can be done remotely, allowing someone to work alone.”

Of course, having a partner always makes the work a little smoother. After recording, they can take the raw file to the control room to work on post-production and create a finished product, cutting and splicing video, adding music tracks, dropping in old photographs, and other professional touches. The user controls everything. Projects may include creating a trailer for a website, an oral video family history, or a DVD for a class reunion.

Alternatively, once someone has created a raw file of his or her vision, a professional engineer not connected to the library can be hired to do the post-production work, and many users choose this option.

Besides having a valid library card, patrons must make appointments to use the space and must sign a waiver.

They must also attend one of the orientation meetings, which are posted on the library’s website, www.mcpld.org.

There is also a 250-square-foot dedicated space for artists in residence. “This can be used for any medium that will fit in the space,” Kretschman explains. That could include working with clay, painting, writing, fiber arts, photography, or any other creative area. The studio provides a change of scenery, letting the artist get away from housework,

laundry, and other distractions. It’s rather like going to the office, and artists will know that they’re there to work, not goof off. There is no fee for the artists, but they must make three public presentations regarding their work during the three-month residency. Applications and guidelines are available on the website.

You can also book a librarian by calling 243-4442 and a library employee will help for a half-hour period. Other classes include an introduction to digital photography, basic computer skills, introductions to Google and Microsoft Word, and how to create a free website. Online videos introduce users to the space on the website under the Services tab and then 970West. Studio space, the control room, equipment, and classes are free to anyone over the age of 18 who has a library card. To book studio space, email room@mcpld.org or call the above number. You can also subscribe to the 970West Studio newsletter via the Mesa County Libraries website.

When asked how he sees libraries of the future, Sanchez sums up their current function: “I think libraries will always be places for learning and exploration. I also think libraries can and should be preserving their community’s unique and vanishing cultural assets for future generations.

People will always use the library to find books to read, no matter how much things change.” ■

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20 HOME & GARDEN

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MARCH 2016

Pruning fruit trees in Palisade

By Priscilla Walker

K

eeping peach trees productive by pruning, or cutting away part of the tree, to correct or maintain tree structure, is most often done during late winter when trees are dormant.

Properly pruned trees yield higher quality fruit and live significantly longer.

A strong tree framework opens up the tree canopy for more light penetration — essential for flower bud development, optimal fruit flavor and quality — and improves air movement to minimize disease.

Palisade growers used stilts for pruning in earlier times to more easily reach the highest branches and prune more quickly. Though dangerous, a skilled worker on stilts could prune an orchard much faster.

Today, commercial fruit trees are typically shorter, so stilts are no longer required for pruning. Most Palisade pruners now stand on a tractor-driven platform or flatbed vehicle, or climb ladders to reach upper branches. Shorter trees also ease the work of winter pruning, as well as

Top left: When Palisade fruit growers needed help with orchard work (especially pruning) because of a death or illness, their friends and neighbors would pitch in.

This photo may have been taken from one such “pruning bee” held on February 14, 1958 when 30 neighbors and friends helped prune Clark Twyman’s orchard as he had been stricken with pneumonia.

thinning and picking delicious fruit in the summer.

Palisade growers are experimenting with another change, which is training, a relatively new practice that replaces conventional pruning.

With training, tree growth is directed into a desired shape and form and pruning in the summer to minimize cutting. ■

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Bottom left: In this 1940s photo, pruners working on an orchard in the Vinelands are, left to right, Tom Bertram, Jamie Clark, Garland Rush, Theo Eversol, and Lyndon Granat Top right: The idea of using stilts is believed to have originated in 1915 by Palisade’s E.T. Schneller, who is standing in the center of this photo.

If you have historic photos of Palisade you are willing to share, please contact the Palisade Historical Society at historicpalisade.org or (970) 464-2177.

Photos will be scanned and originals returned to donors

MARCH 2016

HOME & GARDEN 21

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How can I improve the health and look of my landscape?

GARDEN CHECKLIST:

Garden Smarts, By Kathy Kimbrough Q. My trees had aphids last year.

Is there anything I can do to keep them from coming back this year?

The most effective and least harmful way to kill aphids, mites and scale on shade and fruit trees is the use of horticultural oils. These are mineral oils that have had all impurities removed. The oils block the air holes on insects causing asphyxiation or they are poisonous to the insects causing death. It is best to apply horticultural oils right before bud break in the early spring and when there is no rain in the forecast. Be sure temperatures are not freezing, as this will cause the oils to break down and produce uneven coverage.

Q. I have several peach trees on my property. When is the best time to prune them and what is the best way to prune them?

The best time to prune any fruit tree is early spring before bud break. The first

thing you should remove is any dead, diseased or crossing branches. Use alcohol or a bleach solution on your pruning tools between cuts to minimize spread of infections. Thin the center of the tree to increase sunlight and air circulation, which will in turn increase fruit production. For more information on pruning fruit trees, please refer to CSU Extension Fact Sheet # 7.003

Q. I am starting a new vegetable garden this spring. The spot I want to use is in the sun most of the day. It is now covered with grass.

What steps should I take to prepare the soil for vegetables?

Congratulations on starting your own vegetable garden. With a little work to get your soil in good shape, you will be harvesting delicious vegetables in no time. In a perfect world, you would have tilled the lawn under last October and allowed it to decompose over the fall, winter and early spring months.

Since it is already March, I would suggest removing the lawn completely and rototill 2-3 inches of quality organic matter to a depth of 6-8 inches in the new vegetable bed. Be sure the soil is not too wet or dry when rototilling.

Regular additions of organic soil amendments will improve yields and quality of your vegetables. You should aim for 4-5 percent organic matter in your soil over time. Additional benefits of adding organic matter to your soils are that it increases oxygen levels and improves drainage in clay soils. In sandy soils, organic matter holds in water and nutrients. It also encourages beneficial organisms such as earthworms to stay in your soil and improve soil compaction.

Consider building a compost bin to start making your own quality compost from yard and garden debris. ■

 Don’t start your seeds too early for warm season flowers and vegetables, especially tomatoes!

Most annual flowers and vegetables should be sown indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost, which is roughly the first week in April for the Grand Valley.  If a cold-frame isn’t available to start early cold-season vegetables, wait until soil temperatures have warmed to 40 degrees F at a depth of 4 inches at 8 a.m. Then it will be safe to sow seeds of peas, lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, kale, onion sets, cauliflower, radicchio, spinach, carrots, beets, radishes, turnips and Swiss chard.  Prune summer-blooming shrubs, those that bloom on the current season’s growth, in late March or early April before new growth begins. (Examples: Blue Mist Spirea, summer-blooming Spirea, Butterfly Bush)  Save the Date - Landscapes West Outdoor Living Conference March 18 - 19, at Two Rivers Convention Center.

PLANT OF THE MONTH—Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) These beautiful but under-used bulbs are a sure sign of spring, with blooms arriving as early as late February. Tiny, perfect-white flowers are bell-shaped and grow four inches tall and wide. They are very effective when planted en masse where they can naturalize, such as in lawns under large deciduous trees. Large clumps of these versatile beauties would also look great along a flagstone path or among cacti or succulents in rock gardens. Plant bulbs in the fall at a depth of three times the height of the bulb. They are hardy to USDA Zone 3 and appreciate full sun to partial shade.

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22 LOCAL LORE

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Manhunt on Orchard Mesa

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Y

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MARCH 2016

ears ago, Dad gave me a cassette tape on which his father had recorded an account of chasing robbers on Orchard Mesa when he was a young man. Growing up, I had heard bits and pieces of this story, but the recording seemed of little interest to me at the time. So it sat for years on a shelf, forgotten and gathering dust.

As things go, cassette tapes and the equipment to play them went by the wayside.

Recently I was doing some volunteer work for the Palisade Historical Society, writing summaries of some of the oral histories that had been recorded on cassette tapes several years ago. I borrowed a cassette tape player to listen to some of these old tapes and Granddad’s story came to mind, so I decided to finally give it a listen after all these years. The tape had no date on it, but based on some family history and other facts, I estimated that it was probably recorded in about 1978. As I played the tape, I was truly amazed at Granddad’s ability, at 88 years of age, to tell a good story in nearly perfect chronological order and with such vibrant detail of events that occurred 60 or so years earlier. In a way, it was a sad reminder that storytelling is becoming a lost art. After he told his story, Granddad played a few old-time tunes on his fiddle.

Granddad, Joel Cosgrove Hines, was known by most people as “Cos” or “J.C.” He was born in Missouri in 1890. In 1905, he came to Colorado to live with his grandparents, who had a farm down in the Colorado River bottom south of Clifton. He graduated from Grand Junction High School in 1911.

It was around 1910 when the Shellenberger Store in Clifton was robbed on a Saturday night. Cos heard about the robbery, but had not given it much thought. A day or two later, he and a buddy, Elmer Harrison, crossed the Colorado River in a small boat and climbed up the steep bluff onto Orchard Mesa to go rabbit hunting.

On Orchard Mesa they met two friends, Frank Hatton and Ed Robbins, who were also hunting. Frank and Ed told them about running onto a dugout where they thought the robbers had stayed. They proceeded up a gulch and found suspicious items that had been left there. Following the tracks further up the gulch, they came into the area east of what was known as the Four Corners. This would have been the current intersection of B ½ and 29 Roads. Old-timers in the area will remember a country store being there. At that time, prior to the arrival of irrigation water, the desert stretched from the Four Corners all the way east to Palisade.

Cattlemen used the land for open JC Hines’ farm

MARCH 2016

LOCAL LORE 23

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range grazing. The closest settlement was at Whitewater to the south.

The four friends continued to follow the tracks along the gulch to the south for about a mile, where they saw three men on a hill ahead of them. The men saw them, too, so they stopped and waited for Cos’ group to come up to them. When they met up with the men, someone in Cos’ group made an accusation that they had robbed the store in Clifton. The men denied this allegation.

Frank went back to get the authorities. Amongst them, Cos’ group had two or three .22-caliber rifles and an old 12-guage single-shot shotgun.

After Frank had been gone a long while, the man who seemed to be the leader of the robbers went up on top of the hill to see if he could spot Frank returning. Becoming restless, he drew his gun on Cos, Elmer, and Ed and took their guns and pocketknives. The robbers had made up packs with the stolen goods. They treated Cos, Elmer, and Ed like pack mules and forced them to carry the packs south and east toward Grand Mesa.

Cos did not know how far they walked across the desert, but after some time, they came to a small mesa and climbed it. There was a ravine on top of the mesa. As they stopped to rest, Deputy Sheriff Ray Patton and another man came up the hill on horseback. The deputy thought all of them were on the track of the criminals, so they rode over to meet the group. The robbers stepped out and took these two men prisoners, as well, making a total of five men the robbers held at gunpoint. They still needed one more horse to make their getaway.

A short time later Elmer’s father, William Harrison, rode up the hill on horseback. Mr. Harrison thought they were all on the robbers’ trail.

The leader shot at Mr. Harrison as he came up the hill. Cos was desperate to warn him that they were between him and the robbers, so he would not shoot at them. Mr. Harrison got down behind his horse and waited.

He then circled around to the south,

so the robbers simply moved their prisoners to the other side of the ditch, keeping the hostages between themselves and Mr. Harrison. One of the robbers wanted to give up, but the leader said he would shoot him if he did so. They continued to shoot at Mr. Harrison.

Finally, the man who wanted to quit threw his gun down, but the leader did not see him crawling up the ravine. As the ditch became shallower, the man’s back was exposed.

Mr. Harrison saw him and fired one shot, which killed him instantaneously. The remaining robbers decided they did not have a chance against Mr. Harrison’s long-range rifle, especially considering he had just proven himself to be good marksman. One of the robbers took a message to Mr. Harrison, saying if he would not kill them, they would surrender.

Mr. Harrison told them to throw down their guns, get down on their knees and raise their hands. He came closer and tied their hands behind their backs with a rope. They put the dead man over the saddle of one of the horses and tied him on. Proceeding down the hill, they were met by a large group of men with a wagon and team, who had come across the desert in pursuit. They put the dead man’s body in the wagon and had to go all the way to the Fifth Street Bridge to cross the river. Cos and his buddies retraced their steps and crossed the river in their boat.

The dead man was buried in a pauper’s grave on Orchard Mesa. Later at the trial in Grand Junction, Cos was one of the key witnesses. The other two men were found guilty and sentenced to serve 10 years at the State Penitentiary in Cañon City. Cos had some concern that when these men got out of prison, they might come after him. One of the men died of pneumonia while in prison. The other man was shot by a guard when he tried to escape over a wall. This news put to rest any worries Cos had of them seeking revenge. In conclusion, Cos stated, “The main moral of this story is, ‘Crime doesn’t pay!’” ■

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24 TRAVEL

MARCH

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Young Peruvian girls in tradit ional cost umes

RU

By Melanie Wiseman

E

very time someone asks me how our recent trip to Peru was, I find myself speechless (a rare occurrence for me). The experience is truly difficult to put into words.

Peru is a feast for the senses. Arrive there with your heart, mind and senses open and empty, and you will leave refreshed and overflowing with new

and exciting sights, tastes, sounds, colors, textures, music, dance, art, architecture, and history, and a people and country you will have fallen in love with.

My husband, Dan, and I met our knowledgeable and witty guide, Raul Jaimes, and 12 other travelers from across the United States, in Lima, where our journey began. The goal was not to just visit Peru, but to be immersed within the culture and people for truly meaningful and memorable experiences.

“Expect the unexpected,”

Raul teaching us about the ancient Inca city, Pisac, and farming terraces

Cusco Cathedral and city in background

Raul said. “Don’t expect things to be like the United States, and you will enjoy Peru. Eat and do Peruvian things. Be flexible and ready for anything.”

Excellent advice from a native Peruvian who has been leading tours of Peru for 15 years. The 14 of us took his advice to heart and thoroughly enjoyed bonding over shared meals and adventures throughout the next 10 days.

THE FOOD Every meal in Peru created a taste bud explosion. Each dish was a work of art, served with impeccable presentation and outstanding service.

Trips into the country brought sights of mile after mile of groomed, patchwork-quilt fields of potatoes (3,000 varieties), quinoa, corn, lupine beans

and more.

Peru’s daily openair markets display a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, flowers, spices, breads and meats.

I may not have finished all of the Peruvian specialties I was introduced to, but am proud to say that I tried every single one. From the special occasion delicacy of Guinea Pig, to smoothie-type drinks made with raw fish or dehydrated frog, to alpaca steak, to corn beer.

THE PEOPLE

There are not enough words to describe the colorful and warm people of Peru.

Whether in Lima, 10 million people, or Cusco, 300,000, or the small communities along the Sacred Valley, the people of Peru have a calm, simple and satisfied temperament and lifestyle.

Still considered a developing country, Peru may not be wealthy, but they are a proud people, rich in tradition, culture n wom and history, including Per uv ia on a a unique mix of early

H 2016

history, the Inca era, Colonial Period, independence from Spain and modern influences.

Peruvians are hard working and industrious. Countrysides are scattered with people plowing behind oxen, and herding sheep. With no welfare system and no begging, not having a job means you automatically become a creative entrepreneur.

Silver, gold and copper mining lead their economy, followed by farming and tourism.

“Mortgages are rare and most homes are “Build as you go, as money allows,” said Raul. “All families have pigs. They are like an ATM. You need money quick, you butcher and sell a pig.”

les vegetab h s e r f ll men se street a Cusco

TRAVEL 25

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Sales tax of 18 percent provides free health care and voting is not optional, or you face a fine. Peruvians love their soccer to such an extreme, Raul humorously pointed out soccer stadiums as “cathedrals.”

Peruvians have great respect for Mother Earth and are thankful for clouds, which mean rain and life.

The sun also represents life to them—past, present and future.

They are not loud or boastful, but modest and playful. They carry their affection freely, linking arms lovingly, laughing as they make their way down busy sidewalks.

Every child holds the hand of an older sibling or parent. Strollers are non-existent; babies are swaddled contently on their mothers’ back.

A warning to all Peruvian travelers, Raul said, “In Peru we say our traffic signs are suggestions.” Seriously, make a note.

HISTORY, ART AND CULTURE Our daily guided tours took us through history both past and present.

At the presidential palace in Lima we witnessed the ceremonial, high-kicking changing of the guards and impressive band. Tours of museums, plazas,

Chinatown, a historic monastery and cathedrals rounded out our experience.

A spectacular flight over the Andes to Cusco, the spiritual and political center of the Incan people, was a wonder to behold. I’m sure my face imprint is still on the window next to my seat.

We were now in a land that included not only the most well known of the exquisite Inca engineering sites, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley, but literally an area thick with ancient Inca sites, some that can only be reached by foot or horseback.

Our two-day excursion through Machu Picchu was breathtaking and included trekking five miles of the rugged Inca Trail, discovering the mysteries that still surround this historic city high in the “cloud forest.” It remains an area of study, theory and speculation as to this city’s precise, detailed construction, the people who lived there and their lifestyle.

We were thrilled to climb and experience several other unique and utterly amazing Inca sites that once had been adorned with gold and silver.

Brilliantly colorful. Those words quickly come to mind when reminiscing about Peru’s art and culture. Every waking moment, your visual senses are stimulated continuously—from clothing and weavings, hair and hats, baskets, pottery, jewelry, paintings, manicured

Modified motor cycle taxi

farms, green terraced mountainsides, Eucalyptus forests and seas of red-tiled roofs.

HANDS ON Highlights for everyone in the group were the opportunities to roll up our sleeves and really experience Peru, behind the scenes, up close and personal.

We spent an afternoon cooking, talking, playing and eating with a gracious Peruvian family who opened their home to us.

We donned aprons to pound and roll dough at a village bakery, where hundreds of loaves of bread were then baked quickly before our eyes in a deep, outdoor wood-burning oven.

In the small weaving-based community of Chinchero, we were treated to lunch with the weavers, followed by hands-on demonstrations of spinning, dying and weaving alpaca fibers.

Five of the days were spent at altitudes between 7,000 and 12,000 feet, but were surrounded by mountains up to 19,000 feet.

We traveled by mini-bus, raft, train, modified motorcycle taxis and foot.

At the end of our journey, we said good bye to Raul and our new family of travel companions, knowing we will always share special memories, and the strong possibility of future adventures together. ■

tato xen plow po Men w ith o Chinchero fields near

26 RECIPES

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MARCH 2016

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Spinach Artichoke Dip

By Melissa Trottier

Ingredients: 2 bags fresh baby spinach 2 Tbs. butter 4-6 cloves garlic 12 oz artichoke hearts 8 oz cream cheese 1 cup mayonaise ½ cup sour cream 1 cup parmesan cheese (and a little extra to sprinkle on top) ½ cup Monterey jack or mozzarella ½ tsp black pepper ½ tsp garlic salt few dashes of hot sauce of your choice few dashes of worcestershire sauce

Instructions: 1. Heat the butter and garlic in a skillet.

2. Add spinach and wilt down.

3. Chop artichokes roughly, add to the spinach and heat through.

4. In a bowl, mix the remaining ingredients until combined.

5. Add artichoke mixture to cream cheese mixture.

6. Place in oven-safe dish and top with grated parmesan cheese.

7. Bake at 350° for 25 min, or until the top is golden brown.

Best served with sliced baguette bread or one of my favorites, pita chips.

Enjoy!

MARCH 2016

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Fresh, nutritious food

By Cheryl Hardy

W

ouldn’t you love to walk out your door and pick from any delicious, organic fruit and vegetables that you wanted? That’s close to reality if you become a member of a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Farmers with CSA programs are found all over the Grand Valley.

In Palisade, Field to Fork has an 18-week harvest season and you can choose the box size at the farm or at a pick-up point. Pick-ups can be made at the R-5 school on Wednesdays, located downtown at 7th Street and Grand Avenue, or at the farm at 3526 Front Street from 4 p.m. Friday till dusk and 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

The driveway to the farm is between the high school and middle school. Turn up the driveway and cross the tracks. A fruit stand on the farm will be open on weekends until dusk where you can purchase cherries, peaches, apples, pears and all veggies. With 15 acres under cultivation, the mission of the farm is making healthy, nutritious and culturally appropriate food accessible and affordable.

The farm is owned and operated

by Jess Washkowiak and her husband. “This year we are dedicating our time fully to the CSA, local chefs and other markets,” said Jess.

“Right now, we are getting our wheels turning toward good economics. This will be our fifth year.”

Check the farm’s website for more details: fieldtoforkcsa.com.

Another CSA farm, Borden Farms (bordenfarms.com), is at the south end of the Grand Valley in Delta.

The owner, Lynn Borden, said, “We have a passion to do this. We love

what we do and we have a love of really good local food and cooking.

We couldn’t find a good enough quality for ourselves so we started growing our own. We have made lots of friends over the years. We love the life, though it is really hard work.”

“We usually don’t have more than 150 CSA members each year so that we can give everybody a real generous share,” Borden added.

“We are a 16-week CSA and all of it comes from us. We have the widest variety of most any CSA on the Western Slope. We grow incredible tomatoes—we are known for that.

We include fruit in our boxes as well, mainly peaches. Everything we offer is typically picked on the same day. By the end of October, we are exhausted and we have three months of down time to plan for the next season.”

Among the CSA farms in Montrose, one is called Circle A Garden (circleagarden.com). This farm is owned and operated by Betsy Austin, along with her 91-year-old mother and two sisters. With three acres under cultivation, the farm season runs from the first Saturday in April until mid-December. This is their eleventh season.

“We put the food out in four categories,” said Austin. “Members can come out and choose what they want from each. We will have six varieties of carrots, four varieties of turnips and four different colored beets in one category, for example. Eggs can be purchased as well when they are available. We definitely want to connect sources so we don’t have a delivery box system. We want people to come on out and see where their food is grown.”

To learn the variable start date of the CSA season, to become a member, or to learn the costs and sizes of food boxes of each Community Supported Agriculture farm listed here, check the websites or call the farmer.

THE BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT 27

28 FAITH MOVES

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On Faith

By Dan Ryan

A

Experience God's love in a traditional setting.

s we flawed humans share space on this fragile blue ball, one of the most fundamental questions we ask ourselves is, Why are we here?

What is our purpose? Such existential contemplation is as ancient as mankind itself, approached from a variety of perspectives ranging from mysticism to philosophy to science to religion, all holding up their books or their artifacts or their evidence and proclaiming, “Here is the truth.”

Whatever “truth” you hold up represents a belief system or having faith in something you can’t see.

Ultimately, the answer to the question above can only come from that faith. And even if you share your faith with millions of others, it’s still an intimately personal thing. So in what do you intimately, fully and deeply believe? What is the locus of your faith?

Faith comes in as many flavors as there are people on the planet. Buddhists believe that our purpose in life is to attain “enlightenment” as they perceive it and that faith in a god is unnecessary to achieve this.

Hindus recognize millions of gods but also believe in one supreme God that inhabits every portion of reality. New Age spiritualists believe in a holistic form of deity as the ultimate source energy from which all things originate and are connected to. Muslims, Christians and Jews believe in one God whose

MARCH 2016

commands were brought to us by various prophets. Atheists have their own brand of faith: a belief in the non-existence of God. I am a Christian. I convey this neither to proselytize nor apologize.

I believe in one God who created us in His image to be His counterpart in this time-space continuum we call reality. I believe in a God who loves us personally and shaped us for the purpose of living our lives intimately connected to Him. And I believe in a God who loves us so much that He manifested himself as human, came into our world to reveal his kingdom as a new reality, then paid the price we couldn’t possibly afford ourselves in order to remove the barrier to fulfilling our purpose.

My faith is about trusting God even when I don’t understand his plan, and that has brought amazing blessings into my life. I have found my “truth” and it lies in the recognition that I can receive grace through faith. Do I wish everyone shared my faith? Of course. I am a flawed and imperfect soul, but the peace that comes from my faith is a gift I would like all to realize.

However, I understand and accept without judgment that many don’t share my beliefs. I know that everyone must walk their own path to the discovery of their purpose and the belief system that may effect its achievement. This individual search for meaning is a fundamental right for which none should have the power to deny or suppress. I only pray that, whatever your faith, it brings you peace. ■

MARCH 2016

29

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ShareFest 2016

SHAREFESTWEEKEND R

By Cheryl Hardy

painting fences, flipping mattresses and washing windows—things that eady to get your hands dirty? seem simple, but are impossible Ready to stretch your muscles for some people who are elderly or after being stuck indoors through disabled. months of freezing weather? Ready “We are asking people who have to give back to your community? a need to sign up by April 1, so that As anyone who does volunteer we know how many volunteers and work will tell you, it is much more what supplies will be needed to rewarding to give than to receive. help,” said McGee. ShareFest is a perfect way to do After one crew last year cleaned some giving. the weeds and mowed the lawn for The mission of ShareFest is to a wheelchair-bound, 80-year-old show the love of Jesus in tangible woman, she told the crew that if ways by taking churches into the they had not done this for her, she community through helpful projwould have been evicted. “Getting ects. As the coordinator for ShareFto know the people we help is est, Vicki McGee, said, “It is a way huge,” said McGee. of giving back through the hands This year’s ShareFest weekend and feet of Jesus. People are just will be April 23-24. “We are hopshowing His love in ShareFest.” ing for good weather. Last year, it The organization is calling for rained and rained. Another year, volunteers from the community, we had snow,” McGee laughed. churches and businesses. They will perform tasks such as cleaning “We plan according to the date for the city clean-up.”

Demonstrating Love of Christ toEaster Ourand Community yards, hookingthe up swamp coolers, To submit a need or to volunteer, call ShareFest at 778-4880 or visit gjsharefest.com. ■

April 24&25, 2010

A CITY WIDE EVENT

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APRIL 23-24, 2016 VOLUNTEER TO SERVE YOUR NEIGHBORS. Deadline to submit a project request is April 1.

ShareFest is an annual event bringing the churches in the greater Mesa County area together to visibly demonstrate the love of Christ through united prayer, a day of serving in the community, sharing service projects, food, and celebrating together God’s goodness.

A CITY WIDE EVENT TO SUBMIT A PROJECT OR VOLUNTEER:

Demonstrating the Call: Love970-778-4880 of Christ to Our Community Email: gjsharefest@gmail.com Website: www.gjsharefest.com

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30 FINANCE

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MARCH 2016

What to do when an inheritance is coming your way

By Teresa Ambord

A

n inheritance can be a wonderful thing, but it won’t be without challenges. Depending on how you handle it, it could be an American dream or a waking nightmare.

Everyone has heard horror stories of the person who comes into a bundle of money and soon ends up in worse shape than ever, possibly from an impulsive shopping spree, a sure-thing investment gone bad, or an unscrupulous adviser.

Now that it’s your turn, don’t be the next horror story. Whether the inheritance you’re expecting is substantial or modes—there are steps you should take to help you make the most of it. Here’s some guidance.

What will you inherit and when?

The estate executor will have this information. Generally an inheritance is not received all at once, but in pieces, so don’t rush to encumber the money by signing a purchase contract.

Whose advice will you take?

Assemble a small team of trusted advisers: a financial planner, an estate planner and a tax specialist.

Check out their track records independently and then talk over your goals with them before you let them touch your money.

How does the inheritance fit with your existing assets?

If you’re nearing retirement, you may already have a well-planned portfolio with an asset allocation appropriate for you. Most experts agree that, as retirement approaches, you should minimize your risk, generally by having the bulk of your money in high-quality bonds, a smaller amount in stocks, and some in cash.

Suppose you’re within a few years of retirement when Uncle Buck leaves you a large amount of stocks.

You’re grateful, but your asset allocation is now skewed. Don’t rush to sell. You’ll need to sit down with your advisers and rebalance your portfolio, being careful not to trigger a tax bill.

What are the tax implications if you sell inherited property?

Tax law favors those who sell inherited assets soon after receiving them, but check with your tax adviser to make sure you won’t owe capital gains tax on the sale.

It’s important to view your current tax situation as a whole, before you make decisions about the disposition of new assets. If you are already looking at capital gains and losses, you may be able to mitigate the overall tax consequences with careful timing. That’s why planning your moves with your tax specialist is critical.

Are you already working to reduce your taxable estate?

If you’ve been systematically reducing your taxable estate—by gifting or transferring assets—you know an inheritance can blow those efforts. You can step up your reduction plan, or you can turn down the inheritance and still keep the assets in the family. Ask your attorney about filing a disclaimer that will allow the inheritance to bypass you and go straight to the next in line, presumably your heir.

However, before you do that, make sure the decedent has not named an alternate beneficiary in his/her will.

As you wait for your inheritance, slow down. Plan carefully with the guidance of quality advisers, and you could end up being the smart one—not the next horror story. ■

MARCH 2016

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Changes to Medicare costs in 2016

By Kim Latta, Colorado Division of Insurance

Y

our Medicare coverage can change each year, so it is important to understand and review your benefits and costs.

Point 1: Review changes to your health coverage costs for 2016.

Some costs associated with Medicare Part A have stayed the same for 2016 and some are higher.

Remember, Part A covers inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, home health care and hospice. You will notice these increases for 2016: • A $28 increase in the hospital deductible, now $1,288 each benefit period.

• The hospital daily coinsurance rates are also higher by either $10 or $14 per day, depending on the number of inpatient days used in a benefit period. It is now $322 per day for days 61-90 and $644 per day for days 91-150 in each benefit period.

• Your skilled nursing facility coinsurance has also seen a $3.50 increase per day for 2016, and it is now $161 for days 21-100 in each benefit period.

Some costs associated with Medicare Part B have stayed the same for 2016, and some are higher.

Remember, Part B covers outpatient medical services, such as physician services. For most people with Medicare, the Part B premium will remain the same at $104.90 per month. However, if you are new to Medicare Part B in 2016, the standard Part B premium will be higher: $121.80 per month. The Part B deductible is now $166: 19 dollars higher than in 2015. There are no changes to the Original Medicare coinsurance rules. You will continue to pay a 20 percent coinsurance for most services covered by Part B.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your plan if you need help understanding your costs and coverage rules.

Point 2: Understand changes to your Medicare Drug costs for 2016.

Medicare Part D (Drug) costs (premium, deductible, coinsurance, and copayments) vary by plan. If your plan has an annual deductible, that cost cannot be more than $360. If your total drug costs exceed $3,310 you will enter the coverage gap. During the coverage gap you will have to pay 45 percent for most brand name drugs and 58 percent for generic drugs. In all plans, after you have spent $4,850 out of pocket you will leave the coverage gap and you will pay 5 percent of the cost of each drug, or $2.95 for generics and $7.40 for brand-name drugs (whichever is greater).

Point 3: Review your options for changing your health coverage in 2016.

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan but are not happy with it, you can switch to Original Medicare during the period from January 1 to February 14 each year and return to Original Medicare and enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan. Leaving a Medicare Advantage Plan and returning to Original Medicare with a stand-alone Part D plan is the only change you can make during this time. For example, you cannot switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another, nor can you leave Original Medicare. Those changes are reserved for the annual Open Enrollment Period (October 15th – December 7th each year).

Point 4: Review Your Medicare notices Since billing errors can occour, be sure to review your Medicare Summary Notice. If you see anything questionable, contact the Colorado Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-800-5035190 and they will help check your Medicare bills with you and resolve any problems. It’s a free call and a free service.■

4R

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for Fighting Medicare Scams

You’re the first line of defense 1. Record – Record the dates of doctors’ visits on a calendar. Note your tests and services.

2. Review – Read your “Medicare Summary Notices” (MSNs) to make sure the details are correct.

Contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program if you have questions or need any assistance

1-800-503-5190

3. Report – If you identify errors or suspect fraud, call the Senior Medical Patrol.

4. Remember – Protect your Medicare number. Only give it to your doctor or other health care provider.

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32

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MARCH 2016

Bringing Health Care Don’t leave a bitter legacy Home to You T

By Joy Thompson

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he call came one morning in May. My older sister, always tough, had a slight waver in her voice. “Mom died this morning,” she said. Even though I heard her, I remember saying, “What?”

To say that Mom’s death was a shock would be an understatement.

After all, it was Dad who had stagefour cancer, and Mom, well, she wasn’t ill. At least, that’s what we thought.

My parents were together for 60 years and had spent their golden years traveling. When it was time to stop, they settled near one of their children, a decision that would set forth a chain of events.

After Mom died, Dad slipped away quickly. The devastation of cancer seemed to increase with each day. At one point Dad just stopped eating. He’d lost the fiery spark we all knew so well, and within one month he was gone.

I was now a midlife orphan and being numb became a part of everyday life. Sadly, finding comfort from my siblings wasn’t an option.

Mom and Dad had always lived with an independent flair—the original do-it-yourself-ers. They grew their own food, they did their own taxes, and they drafted their own wills, long before the era of the Internet, and years before LegalZoom. Mom typed their wills on an old Smith Corona, the strokes of correcting liquid still visible on the paper. That decision would also set forth a chain of events.

Grief has a way of peeling away the layers of the people you love.

Some of those layers reveal a vulnerability that leads to deepened bonds. Some layers reveal bitter motives. I’m positive that my parents didn’t intend for their deaths to cause the children they left behind to turn on each other, but that’s exactly what happened. The wills they had drafted hadn’t been clearcut. The child they intended to be executor of their wills was forced out by another child who felt entitled to be executor.

Chaos ensued, and eventually we all stopped communicating. The peeled layers couldn’t be replaced.

I’ve heard plenty of stories of families who have encountered the same kind of destruction: Fighting.

Bitterness. Silence.

Some parents have named all of their children executors, in hopes that there would be no fighting.

Could things have been different if my parents completed their wills with the help of a professional, and sat down with us to tell us their wishes? I would hope so.

As a midlife orphan, I feel the most pain for my children. They have lost their grandparents and have also lost faith in their aunts and uncles. The one thing I know I can do for them is to make sure my own will is properly in order and that they know I never want them to fight over what’s left of my life.

In fact, “NO FIGHTING” may appear right in the middle of my signature on that will. ■

MARCH 2016

TALKING DIGITAL 33

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Preserve your digital memories

Invisible Hearing Device

Talking Digital, By Adam Cochran

The contact lens for your ear.

M

y grandpa was My grandma was an a hobbyist archivist in her own photographer who right as an avid letter carried his camera into writer and recipe colthe Army while servlector. After they had ing in the China/Burboth passed, my mom ma/India Theater. He spent years going combined his love for through boxes and aviation and photogracabinets, sorting the phy by taking photos cherished memories on the airfields where from the gas receipts he was stationed. and Erma Bombeck Officially, he was clippings. a stenographer, not Here I am, halfway Charles Hamilton, 1944 a photographer. He into this digital advice never had anything good to say about column, and I haven’t said a thing about war or the military, but he loved the computers, cellphones, the Internet, planes. Although he traveled to all 50 or even 4K OLED 3-D flat panel TVs states throughout his life, he never had equipped with motion-sensing gyro the slightest desire to leave the North remote controls.

American continent again.

This is the Legacy issue of the BEAAt one point, in the early 90s, he CON and the best technology advice I believed that he had taken photos of have is actually a plea for you to preevery flying World War II airplane in the serve your digital memories for the country. analog world.

Aircraft weren’t the only subjects You can print out your important of his photos. When he died in 2005, emails and documents at home, then he left behind 80,000 slides and filing have your photo memories archivally cabinets full of prints and negatives printed using a local service like Snap of birthday parties, holidays, beaches, Photo or an online service like Shutterfly. flowers, and even the station wagon Once you have created your own box parked in front of every Super 8 and of documents and photos, take the Motel 6 on vacation. project to the next level and create jourMy grandpa usually had at least two nals or scrapbooks to share your advensilver single-lens reflex cameras hanging tures with progenitors for whom USB around his neck; one with slide film, ports and DVD drives may be obsolete. one with print film, sometimes one The best solution is to use both digital would have the zoom lens or another and hard-copy backups. You don’t have would have 400-ISO film for stopping to print out every photo and document the propellers in cloudy conditions. that you create, but the best memories In the 80s he bought a video camera. should be in a format that will provide That created a whole new archive of illustrated stories to tell grandkids on memories. the couch, away from phones and backlit distractions. ■ Adam Cochran is a technology professional and an instructor at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado. You can email your technology questions to Adam at adamc@talkingdigital.org.

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34

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Binky Patrol: Handmade

blankets for children in need

By Liesl Greathouse

D

o you love to knit, sew, crochet or quilt? Would you like to use your talent for a greater purpose?

You can make a huge difference in the lives of children by becoming part of Binky Patrol.

A binky is a homemade blanket that can range in size from 3-feet square up to a twin bed size.

Binkies are donated to children and teenagers facing tough situations, whether due to illness, homelessness or tragedy. Binkies are comforting reminders that there are people thinking about them.

Binky Patrol began in May 1996 in Laguna Beach, California. From its initial five volunteers, Binky Patrol has grown to over 160 chapters nationwide and an estimated 20,000 volunteers of all ages.

Homemade Hugs in Montrose In Montrose, the local Binky Patrol chapter is called Homemade Hugs and was established in early 2014. The chapter’s director, Christina Carney, loves to make blankets and help kids at the same time.

“Children deal with all kinds of trauma and grief,” she said. “The original Binky Patrol started be-

cause they knew that kids going through different things need something that is wholly theirs, that they can cuddle with and feel safe. All I want to do is help make kids feel safe.”

Before she begins making blankets, Carney checks with local agencies, including Child Protective Services, Dolphin House, Montrose Police Department, HopeWest and other local organizations to see if they are in need of blankets.

“I go anywhere the need is greatest,” she said. “For the kids to be able to have a blanket, it makes the whole process less scary.”

Before a blanket is donated to an organization or child in need, Carney attaches a tag to each blanket that is made by herself or one of her volunteers, giving proper credit to the people who donated the materials for the blanket.

“Having the volunteer names on the blankets helps make it more real for the kids,” she said. “Like when you get a Christmas present, you want to know who it’s from.

To see their faces when they get a blanket that is all theirs—it’s like

they won the lottery.”

Carney’s history of crocheting was an easy avenue to help children through the Binky Patrol.

“My mom taught me how to crochet when I was 9 years old,” she said. “She would make blankets to give away and I saw the comfort it gave people and I wanted to continue that gift. She died 15 years ago, so it keeps her memory alive. She was a really cool lady who taught me a lot, so I donate the blankets in her name.”

To help the Montrose chapter, people can volunteer to make blankets that are sewn, crocheted, knitted, quilted or fleece-tied. Monetary donations are also welcome, as the money goes toward purchasing supplies, such as yarn, fabric, thread and batting.

“I’m overwhelmed with stuff,” Carney said. “While I’m good at what I do, I’m not fast enough. We need more volunteers so we can get more blankets out there.”

Carney’s favorite part of being

MARCH 2016

part of Binky Patrol is the heart of the organization.

“I love knowing that something I made gives aid to somebody else,” she said. “I always love that with blankets. I know it’s a comforting gift.”

Clifton chapter seeks volunteers The Clifton Binky Patrol chapter is a fresh face in the Binky Patrol organization, as the chapter is barely over a year old and still looking for volunteers.

“Binky Patrol is devoted to reaching out to needy children, including HIV-positive, drug-addicted, neglected or abused; or children experiencing trauma in any way,” explained coordinator Shelly Amendola, 49. “Binky Patrol volunteers bring a caring, loving touch by creating and delivering handmade blankets to enrich the children’s lives and to meet their most basic needs of warmth, security and comfort.”

Amendola’s specialty is fleece tying and crocheting, but the chapter also accepts blankets that have been quilted and knitted. One of the things she most enjoys about the organization is the process of creating the blankets.

“When choosing a pattern for crochet, it feels good to try to imagine if it’s one a child would like,” she

MARCH 2016

35

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NEW!

Lift Chairs Many Fabrics to Choose

D es k-to -B ed

After a seven-hour Bink-A-Thon, the Binky Patrol Founder Susan Finch (right) and her friend Char (left) are happily exhausted

said. “I also like talking to others about the chapter. I hope to recruit others that would have strengths in the areas I lack. It would help our chapter grow.”

Being that the Clifton chapter is so new, Amendola and members are looking for more people who can make blankets, but also people to help build relationships with local agencies, garner financial support

and donate supplies.

The mission of Binky Patrol hits close to home with Amendola.

“Having grown up through a rough childhood, I found the mission of Binky Patrol to be in line with my values,” she said. “Many children going through tough times can use that little touch to help them feel loved.” ■

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For information on the Montrose Binky Patrol, call 964-4250 or email vyper93068@yahoo.com.

For information on the Clifton Binky Patrol, call 462-8300 or email samendola46@gmail.com.

Binky Patrol blankets made for children dealing with the loss of a loved one are welcomed

by HopeWest.

Hilltop - the name you trust At Hilltop Home Care we know remaining safe, secure and independent in your own home can be a primary worry as you age. Aging well in your home may require a wide-range of personalized services to help you achieve your optimal independence. At Hilltop Home Care we offer: n Post-hospitalization and surgery care n IV therapy, medication management and injections n Physical, occupational and speech therapists

n Chronic disease management n Personal care n Companionship n Housekeeping, pet care and handyman services

n Transportation and errands n Meal preparation n Emergency Response Monitors n All caregivers screened and insured

Ask about our Geriatric Care Managers and how they can help you navigate the complex issues of aging at home

(970) 208-1345 • HilltopHomeCareGJ.org

36 FUN AFTER 50

Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Avenue - 970 243-7408

The Senior Recreation Center offers activities for seniors age 50 and older. The center is open Monday–Saturday from 8 am–4 pm Annual membership is $15.

Senior Recreation Center Monthly Calendar of Events MONDAY 9:00 am 9:30 am 10:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5:30 pm

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

TUESDAY 9:00 am Cribbage & Pool Tourney 12:00 pm Gray Gourmet Lunch 1:30 pm Bingo WEDNESDAY 9:00 am 9:30 am 10:00 am

12:00 pm 1:00 pm

Ladies Pool & Cribbage Jack & Jill Pool Tourney Free Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd Wed) Gray Gourmet Lunch Pinochle & Canasta

THURSDAY 9:00 am Cribbage & Dominoes 10:00 am Dance w/Music (1st Thursday) 10:30 am Membership Meeting 12:00 pm Pokeno (Starts at 1 p.m. on 1st Thursday) 7:30 pm Dance FRIDAY 9:00 am

12:00 pm 12:30 pm 12:45 pm 1:00 pm

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

SATURDAY 9:00 am Bridge 1:00 pm Bingo

To make Gray Gourmet lunch reservations, call 243-9844. $3.50

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MARCH 2016

FUN AFTER 50

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

SPECIAL EVENT MARCH 1 Swimmer Appreciation Day 5 pm – 7:30 pm, Orchard Mesa Pool Includes free entry into the Orchard Mesa Pool, waterslide and hot tub.

Register that day for our spring programs and receive $5 off the total.

MARCH 17 St. Paddy’s Day Party 10 am - 1 pm, Senior Recreation Center Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day with live music and dancing. Bring a potluck dish to accompany the hot dogs and sauerkraut.

HEALTH MARCH 11 Facts & Tracks: Mindless Eating Noon – 1 pm, Botanical Gardens They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Join CSU Extension Agent and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Ann Duncan for a focused, 30-minute lecture on how mindless eating is causing us to eat more than we think we are eating, and learn about ways to prevent this from happening. Then spend the next 30 minutes walking on the Riverfront Trail.

This series is the perfect combination of mind/body wellness! Cost is $5.

TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS Gentle Active Yoga 8 am - 9 am, Lincoln Park Barn $7 drop in, $50 for 10-punch pass This class is designed for an active beginner and above, teaching flexibility of mind and body in a fun and supportive environment. Students must be able to get up and down from the floor unassisted. Drop in for $7 or get a 10-punch pass for $50.

MARCH 11 CPR/AED Professional Rescuer/ Healthcare Providers 8 am - 2 pm, Red Cross Building This American Red Cross program trains professional-level rescuers how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies in adults, children and infants. Real-life rescue scenarios reinforce decision-making skills. Please bring a lunch. Cost is $90.

MARCH 12 CPR/First Aid/AED 8 am - 2 pm, Red Cross Building This American Red Cross program helps participants recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing and first-aid emergencies. Please bring a lunch. Cost is $75.

DAILY Aqua Aerobics Mon/Wed/Fri: 8:15 am – 9:15 am Tues/Thurs: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Orchard Mesa Pool These novice to intermediate aqua aerobic classes are for individuals introducing themselves to water exercise or those who have enjoyed our previous classes.

Moderate intensity activities incorporate noodles, hand paddles, water weights, and more. Drop in for $4.50 or pay $46.50 for a 12-punch pass.

DANCE MONDAYS Intermediate Line Dance for Kids 50+ 1 pm – 2 pm, Lincoln Park Barn Build on your line dancing skills and have fun! No partner is needed. Drop in for $5 or purchase a 10-punch pass for $32.

THURSDAYS Senior Dances with Live Music

8 – 11 pm, Senior Recreation Center Dance the night away and enjoy your favorite music performed live! Cost is $3.

GARDENING MARCH 10 Garden Talk: Diagnosing Plants Noon – 1 p.m., Botanical Gardens It’s always a mystery when plants come down with disease until you know what to look for. Master Gardeners Jan Klahn and Martha Hartung will teach you how to collect a good sample so Master Gardeners can correctly identify any issues with your plants. Cost is $5.

SPORTS DAILY Indoor Pickleball Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:30 am – 11:30 am Tuesday & Friday: 9 am –12:30 pm, 4 pm – 7 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Sunday: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Play indoor pickleball at Lincoln Park Barn – drop in for $5 or $30 for 10 punches. Schedule subject to change.

SAVE THE DATE Western Colorado Senior Games for Athletes 50+ August 20-26, 2016

ART MARCH 16 Spring Into Bow Making 1 - 2 pm, Johnson’s House of Flowers The possibilities are endless when you learn how to make the perfect bow!

Learn from the experts at Johnson’s House of Flowers. All materials will be supplied. Register by March 9.

Cost is $25.

MARCH 2016

MESA COUNTY 37

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Mesa County Club Activities • Not Going Quietly meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm, The Not Going Quietly gathering is intended to create a space of empowerment, energy, grace, community, and wisdom for individuals who are 60+ years. The group was inspired by the book “Do Not Go Quietly: A Guide to Living Consciously and Aging Wisely for People Who Weren’t Born Yesterday”

by George and Sedena Cappannelli.

This ongoing group meets at Two Rivers Center for Spiritual Living, 251 Colorado Ave. Just show up to join in the fun! For questions call the office at 433-7799.

• Friendship Force meets monthly at 6:15 pm on the second Thursday at Community Hospital’s lower conference room. Call 260-4653 or visit www.thefriendshipforce.org.

• Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets the fourth Tuesday from 7-9 pm at Western Colorado Community College, 2520 Blichmann Avenue, Building B, Room 171 (double-door entrance from Parking Lot # 4), in Grand Junction. Membership is open to anyone interested in learning more about photography and all skill levels are welcome. Visit www.thundermountaincameraclub.org.

• Mesa County Genealogical Society meets monthly at 7 pm on the second Thursday at The Commons of Hilltop and at noon on the fourth Wednesday at the Museum of Western Colorado. Help sessions are at 1 pm on the first Friday at a library branch. Call 640-2388.

• Art Quilt Association meets monthly at 9:30 am on the third Saturday in Grand Junction. Always looking for new members. Locations vary but are posted at http://theartquiltassociation.com/home/event-calendar/ • Great Old Broads for Wilderness meets the last Monday from 4:306 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 536 Ouray. Call 255-9900 for information.

Y ALL DA AY D E VE RY

5

$

• Western Slope Coin Club, meets monthly at 6:30 pm the second Wednesday at the VFW Post #1247.

Get a free coin/currency evaluation at 5:30 pm. Call 241-1770 or visit www. gjcoinshow.com.

• Two Rivers Sam’s/Good Sam RV Club meets the second Saturday at 11:30 am. For details and location, call 523-5625.

• Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets from 6-9 pm Thursdays at the Masonic Center. Call 261-1670.

• Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets monthly at 6 pm on the first and third Wednesdays and at 1 pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays at Redlands United Methodist Church.

Call 245-8817 or 523-5965.

• Grand Valley Woodturners meets the second Tuesday at 7 pm at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or 856-3632.

• High Desert Diamonds, plus-level square dancing with Naaman Moorehouse, caller. 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7 to 9 pm, at the Masonic Center, 2400 Consistory Court, Grand Junction. For more information, call Sue at 241-7457.

• Mesa Fiber Arts Guild meets monthly at 6 pm the first Thursdays, at Color Creek Fiber Art, 1150 N. 25th St. Unit B in Grand Junction.

Call 243-3598 or visit www.mesafiberartsguild.org.

• Blue Lodge Masons meets the first Saturday at 10 am at the Masonic Center. Call 245-5312.

• Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at 1 pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and 6:30 pm Thursdays at 2923 North Ave. Call 243-7874.

• Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets the second Saturday at 9 am at First Congregational Church.

Call 640-2751.

• Grand Valley Valor Quilters, sewing with the mission to “Cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” 1st and 3rd Saturdays at the Ed Bozarth’s conference room in Grand Junction. To learn about the national Quilts of Valor Foundation or to get more information about this sewing group, call Sue at 241-7457.

on the second Wednesdays at the VFW Post #3981. All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome.

Call 434-0868.

• Grand Junction Toastmasters meets at 7:10 am Tuesdays at St. Mary’s Life Center. Call 242-4863.

• Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets at noon Thursdays at the Mesa County Public Library, Downstairs, Study Room B, 443 N. 6th Street.

Call 250-3969.

• Western Slope Rovers RV Club meets monthly for breakfast on the first Thursday of each month. Call 858-3907 for time and details.

• Cribbage Lite meets at 6 pm every Tuesday at International House of Pancakes, 2420 Highway 6 & 50, Mesa Mall. Call 270-2433.

• Vestafjell, Sons of Norway Lodge invites those interested in Scandinavian heritage and culture to join Lodge members at their lunch meetings. For details, call 245-5649.

• Grand Valley Pets Alive meets 1:30-4:30, on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Church of the Nativity, 2175 Broadway. For information call 256-1851. Working to reduce pet overpopulation by funding spay/neuter of pet cats and dogs and community cats.

New volunteers welcome! ■

• Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Branch 244 meets monthly at 7 pm COUPON

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38 MESA COUNTY

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Mesa County Calendar

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

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Domestic Draft 16oz $2.00 Mexican Draft 16oz $2.50 House Margarita $3.00 Appetizers 1/2 price 3pm 5pm Monday - Domestic Draft -16 oz $2.00 All Day Tuesday - House Margarita $3.00 all day Wednesday-Thursday - Well Drinks $3.00 all day

2480 Highway 6 & 50  Grand Junction, CO In Montrose at 1706 East Main Street (Hwy 50) - 970-241-3354

MARCH 2016

970-241-3354

For the best buy on a New or Used vehicle, check out our

MARCH 2 Wonderful Wizard of Song This theatrical production brings the pivotal moments of Harold Arlen’s life and songs to the stage. Arlen wrote such beloved songs as “That Old Black Magic,” “Stormy Weather,” “Paper Moon,” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and countless other favorites.

Fourth in the Community Concerts of the Grand Valley series at the Grand Junction High School Auditorium, 7:30 pm. Adult tickets $25, students $15.

Call 243-1979 or visit www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.com MARCH 2 Free Medicare 101 Seminar Come to a free Medicare 101 educational seminar from 10 am to noon.

The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Project (SHIP) will present an educational seminar for new Medicare beneficiaries at RSVP, 422 White Ave., Suite 090, lower level US Bank Building.

The seminar is designed to help new Medicare beneficiaries understand their health options. Seating is limited. Call 243-9839 to reserve your spot.

MARCH 5 Planning for Senior Care You’re invited to a free information session about planning for senior care.

It starts at 1 pm. The one-hour panel will help you create a strategy for senior care before it becomes a sudden emergency. Space is limited so RSVP to 866-928-4752 or gvinfo@ba.org MARCH 5 “Manon Lescaut” Opera Manon Lescaut” Opera from the Metropolitan Opera in HD, March 5, 10:55 am Regal Cinemas 14, 648 Market St. encore 6:30 pm $24 adults, $22 seniors, $18 children, fathomevents. comFriends will provide coffee, iced tea and lemonade. For more information, call 201-0868.

MARCH 8 Mesa County Libraries Literacy Center celebrates 30-year anniversary An afternoon social will be held to celebrate the Mesa County Libraries Literacy Center’s 30th Anniversary, 4 to 6 pm at the Fifth Street and Grand Avenue main library. Mesa County Libraries Literacy Center volunteers have literally been changing lives for 30 years. The Center’s mission is to improve students’ self-sufficiency and to provide opportunities for broader engagement with the Mesa County community.

MARCH 8 Grand Mesa Sweet Adelines Come one, come all to the free performance of the Grand Mesa Sweet Adelines Chorus Friends and Family Night at 7:30 pm at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Contact Bette Lowenstein, 523-3464, with questions..

MARCH 8, 9, 14, 22 Basics of estate planning Protect Your Family & Assets: Beyond the Basics of Estate Planning Grand Junction: Wednesday, March 9 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm Montrose: Monday, March 14 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm. Delta: Monday, March 21 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm. Grand Junction: Tuesday, March 22 from 5 to 6 pm. Learn the ways to protect what is important to you so you can breathe easier! At this free workshop we’ll be discussing not only will and trust estate plans and advance directives, but in-depth information about how to protect your assets, heirs, special needs beneficiaries and even your pets through specialized trusts.

MARCH 11 - 12 Mesas to Monuments Quilt Show Friday and Saturday March 11 – 12 at the Lincoln Park Barn, from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is $3.

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MARCH 12 Mount Garfield chapter of Daughters of the Revolution The Mount Garfield chapter of DAV will be having their Regular meeting March 12 at the Whitman Education Center at 1 PM. Featured speaker will be Janet Rowland, Executive Director of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). Anyone interested in attending or needing information about DAR and their eligibility may call Connie Bunte at 245-5637.

MARCH 13 Bolshoi Ballet “Spartacus” Ballet from the Bolshoi Ballet in HD, March 13, 12:55 PM Regal Cinemas 14, 648 Market Street. $18 adult, $15 seniors and children.

Visit fathomevents.com for more information.

MARCH 15 Colorado Archaeological Society The Grand Junction chapter is hosting a lecture by retired National Parks archaeologist Doug Scott, Ph.D. Dr. Scott is an expert in battlefield archaeology. His lecture will focus on many summers of tracing, mapping and analyzing battlefield details of the Little Big Horn and other famous and not so famous sites in the west. Lecture is free and open to the public, 7 to 9 pm at the Grand Junction City Hall Council Chambers.

Enter the west side doors at 250 N. 5th St. For more information visit www.cas-gj.org or call 433-4312.

MARCH 17-18 Grand Junction Senior Theatre Come enjoy “The Biz,” a toe-tapping musical comedy performed by Grand Junction Senior Theatre performers age 50+. Shows begin Friday at 7 pm and Saturday at 2 pm and 7 pm, at Grand Junction High School. Tickets are $12 each and available at Roper Music, City Market and Albertsons and at the door.

Contact Helen McKinley at 234-1828 for details.

MARCH 19 St. Patrick’s Dinner/Dance St. Patrick’s Weekend Benefit Dinner and Dance will be held at the Eagles Lodge at 1674 U.S. Hwy. 50. Dinner begins at 6:30 pm. The dance begins at 8 pm. Dinner and dance includes traditional corned beef dinner, Irish stew and dessert for $30 per person.

Dance-only tickets cost $10 per person and are valid from 8 pm to midnight.

A cash bar will be available. Special performances by Morgan Crouse and Peggy Malone from 7:30 to 8 pm. Live music at 8 pm. Tickets may be purchased from band members or by mail at Sacred Heart Church, 503 E. Aspen Street, Fruita, CO 81521. For more information, contact Larry Archuleta at 858-3137. All proceeds benefit Sacred Heart Church Building Fund.

MARCH 19 Mt. Garfield Daughters of the Revolution The Mt. Garfield Daughters of the Revolution will hold their Card Party, one of their major fundraisers, on March 19, at the Moose Lodge. For information or to reserve a table, please call Mrs. Dorothy Inscho at 245-2645.

MARCH 20 The Radio Room Presents Free The Honey Since Free the Honey formed in 2013, the band has gained a natural momentum and warm welcome around Colorado and beyond. Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door and may be purchased by calling 241-8801, Ext 0 or online at www.kafmradio.org.

The Radio Room is located at 1310 Ute Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501.

Doors open at 7 pm and show begins at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 20-23 Big Screen Classic “The Ten Commandments” starts at 2 pm and 7 pm at the Regal Cinemas 14, 648 Market St. General admission $12.50.

MARCH 26 Grand Valley Community Contra Dance New location: GJ DanceSport 421 Colorado Ave. Beginner’s Walk Through.

The dance is from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Adults $8, Students $5, ages 10-17 $4. The caller is Ron Young and the band is Fifth Reel. Come with or without a partner, casual dress, no experience needed. For information, call Connie at 260-5852.

MARCH 26 Square Dance Fundraiser for the Veterans Golden Age Games Come and have fun at our Annual Square Dance at the Fruita Community Center to raise funds to send Veterans

River City Singles

(CHAMPS) to the National Golden Age Games. Cost $6.00 per person. The Caller & Cuer will be Pat McBride.

6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, refreshments will be available.

All proceeds will assist team members to travel to the 2016 National Golden Age Games in Detroit, Michigan. For information call Chuck 303-548-5789.

MARCH 31 Art Film Leonardo di Vinci art film at 7 pm at the Regal Cinemas 14, 648 Market St. $15 general admission. Visit fathomevents.com for details.

MARCH 2016 Activity Schedule

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

Calling all singles over 50!

Come meet new friends and join us at 5 p.m. Fridays at the Travelodge on Horizon Drive. You’re sure to find people who are young at heart with like interests.

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

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

March 6 - 27 Bowling Sunday and card games at 12:30 at Orchard Mesa Lanes, 295 27 Rd. RSVP to Bob at 263-8462.

March 9 Snowshoeing, at Mesa Lakes. RSVP to Joan at 241-6583.

March 10 Fun Lunch Bunch, at 11:30 am, Bocas Venezuelan Grill, 638 Horizon Drive.

RSVP to Penny at 712-2585.

March 16 Game Day at Mary’s, 727 Birdie Dr. RSVP to Mary at 242-0630.

March 17 Restaurant ROVE, at 6 pm, to be Announced at RCS – FAC. RSVP to John at 241-3171.

March 26 St. Paddy’s Day at 5 PM, Judie’s in Fruita. RSVP to Judie at 639-2197 or 250-5084.

March 31 Golf at Green River Golf Course, Utah. RSVP to Nick at 245-5575.

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Mesa County Beacon Bits St. Mary’s offers ‘Living with Diabetes’ series St. Mary’s Living with Diabetes education series teaches people with diabetes to use self-care techniques and current technology to manage their condition. The four-week series for people with type 2 diabetes and their families is based on the American Association of Diabetes Educators 7 Self-Care Behaviors. These classes are taught by Certified Diabetes Educators.

The next session of Living with Diabetes will meet Tuesday March 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm, in St. Mary’s Life Center at 2686 Patterson Road. Call 298-2582 or 298-6430 for information and to schedule an initial appointment with a diabetes educator prior to the class. A physician referral is required. Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans provide a diabetes education benefit.

Learn about weight loss surgery options at St. Mary’s If you are considering weight loss surgery, attend a free education session presented by the staff of St. Mary’s Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center. St. Mary’s offers all surgical options; gastric band, gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion procedures performed by a bariatric-trained surgeon. Learn how the different types of surgery work, who qualifies, and how St. Mary’s will support you as you change your life.

Family and friends are welcome. The dates and times in Grand Junction are: March 2 from 5:30 - 7 pm, March 16 from Noon - 1:30 pm, and March 30 from 5:30 - 7 pm at St. Mary’s Life Center, 2686 Patterson Road, Grand Mesa Room. Use Entrance 40. In Rifle, meet March 17 at 5:30 - 7 pm in the Grand River Medical Center. Call 2986400 to register, or visit our website at www.stmarygj.org.

Bringing antique furniture back to life With more than 20 years of experience restoring antiques and building custom furniture in Denver, local woodworker Gabe Sheker recently opened Fruition Studio, a woodshop in Grand Junction. Sheker creates one-of-a-kind pieces for the local community and beyond. Aside from refurbishing antique furniture, his talents lie in applying advanced finishing techniques to new pieces, creating deep color coats that replicate antique patinas. In the coming months, Fruition Studio will offer free woodworking classes at their downtown woodshop. To get a custom piece into your home, or to bring an antique back to life, call (303) 810-5203. To learn more about Fruition Studio’s vision, visit ReimaginingExchange.com.

Preservation tool: Family personal history on DVD Rob Wallace announced that his new film company, Heirloom Films, is now open and producing videos of older family members so they can tell their story and share their legacy with generations to come. Wallace says, “Imagine being able to watch your grandfather or older family member on camera telling you the details of their lives loves, challenges, and wishes for the future generations of the family. You could look into his eyes and see his soul through the camera lens. You will be able to hear the chuckle in someone’s voice, see their passion and know them firsthand, for many years to come.” The long-term vision of Heirloom Films is for families to create DVD libraries of their living family tree to ensure that the knowledge and human qualities of dozens of family members are recorded for hundreds of years. Heirloom Films will produce personal history videos within a 135 mile radius of Grand Junction. Call Rob Wallace at 6284000 for a consultation. Visit www. heirloom-films.com The Community Food Bank is moving!

Grand Junction’s Community Food

MARCH 2016

Bank has found a new home and will move its emergency food distribution operation the first week of March, 2016. After five years of operating out of the county building at 200 South Spruce Street, the Community Food Bank will close its doors at 2 pm on March 1. Its new location will be 562 West Crete Circle, Unit 102 in Grand Junction (the Minerva Park industrial section behind Sam’s Club).

The Community Food Bank will open its doors at the new location beginning at 11 am Monday, March 7.

Operation Interdependence Our pantry/shelves are nearly bare. OI supports at least 2,500 deployed every month. We need goodies for our care packages; atomic fire balls, gum, snack bars, single serve peanuts, sardines, oatmeal and fruit snacks (Welch’s) cookies and crackers. For more information or drop-off places call 523-4217. Operation Interdependence is an all-volunteer organization supporting our troops. We also need 2,500 notes written each month, or you can help pack care packages.

Call 523-4217 for more information.

Grand Mesa Sweet Adelines Come one, come all to the free performance of the Grand Mesa Sweet Adelines Chorus Friends and Family night, March 8 at 7:30 pm at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Contact Bette Lowenstein, 523-3464, with questions.

SUPPORT GROUPS • Mending Hearts Support Group is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one.

Grand Junction group meets from 2 pm - 3:30 pm. Thursdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest.

Fruita group meets at the Fruita Civic Center. Call 248-8844.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support groups for family members of adults who have a serious mental illness and for adults who have a mental illness diagnosis. Groups meet at various times in Mesa County.

Call 462-3989.

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• The Fruita Group is for family members and meets monthly from 6 pm - 7:30 pm on the first Tuesdays at Family Health West Nursing Home, 228 N. Cherry St. • Western Slope Visionaries, a low-vision support group, meets from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm, Wednesdays. Call 241-0315.

• Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. The group meets monthly at 7 pm - 8:30 pm on the first Tuesdays at Unity Church, 3205 N. 12th St. Call 434-3822.

• MACHO Men cancer support group meets monthly at 5 pm 6:30 pm on the second Wednesdays at St. Mary’s Hospital’s Java City Café. Call 298-2351 for details.

• MS and Men, a support group for men living with MS, meets monthly on the third Thursdays from 11 am to noon at the Artful Cup. Call 241-8975.

• MS Breakfast Group meets monthly at 9 am on the first Wednesdays at The Egg & I. Call 241-8975.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Colorado National Monument is seeking new volunteers to assist the staff in a variety of ways. Opportunities include visitor services, trail ambassador, environmental education, facility or trail maintenance and many others. For more information, please contact Lindsay Compton (970) 858-3617 ext 364.

Family Health West is looking for volunteers to act as greeters at Colorado Canyons Hospital & Medical Center or to assist with our activities in our assisted living facilities. To learn more, please contact Nathan Watchman at 970-858-2211 or nwatchman@fhw.org.

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer posi-

tions in any of our member agencies.

For more information on the available positions below, call 243-9839 or visit rsvpgrandjunction.org.

WESTERN SLOPE DENTAL CENTER BRANDON S. BERGUIN D.D.S. AND ASSOCIATES 514 28 Road • Grand Junction, CO 81501

241-3483

GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

• AARP – Safe Driving Instructor • City of Grand Junction Police & Mesa County Sheriff – Victim Advocate • Girl Scouts – Service Unit Leader • Grand Valley Zoological Quest/ Childrens Nature Center in Fruita – Docent • Hilltop Community Service – Crisis Line Support

DENTURES, CROWNS, VENEERS, BRIDGES, FILLINGS, ROOT CANALS, EXTRACTIONS, IMPLANTS • • • • •

ALL FEES QUOTED BEFORE TREATMENT INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED DENTURE REPAIRS & RELINES EMERGENCIES WELCOME NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLANS

Brandon S. Berguin D.D.S. SENIOR DISCOUNTS

COLORADO

Stamps & Coins Our professional buyer lives & works on the Western Slope and will come to your home or office to evaluate & purchase your collection.

We are A+ with the BBB & have been buying collections for over 15 years.

• U.S. & Foreign Stamps • Coins • Paper Money • Historical Items • Tokens • Old Letters • Stock Certificates • Documents • Antiques & Art • Pocket Watches • Medals • Military Memorabilia ....and much more

970-644-0561 ANA Life Member #3119629

This is why Dan Carlson, artist and owner, has been customizing memorials since 1976. Every memorial is designed, engraved and installed by our craftsmen to insure the highest quality from start to completion.

It is our commitment to assist you and your family during this difficult time and hope to ease the experience with kind, compassionate professionalism.

We are honored to help you select the appropriate memorialization that will last through the ages for someone special. Your memorial will serve as a source of historical record for future generations.

42 FUN & GAMES

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

FUN & GAMES

Remember When…

A cup of coffee didn’t come with a pretentious name.

What would you like to remember?

Send your request to Beacon@PendantPubllishing.com and I’ll pick one a month to draw a cartoon about.

Palisade Dental

Free Slice

125 West 3rd Street, Palisade, CO 81526

Brian E. Day, D.M.D., P.C. • 464-5123

Purchase any slice at regular price and receive a free slice of equal or lesser value.

Hours 8am -5 pm Mon-Thurs

GENERAL AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

*Crown & Bridge*Implants placed & restored*Dentures* Partials & Repairs *State of the Art oral cancer screening*tooth colored fillings*root canals *Gentle and thorough cleanings Most insurance, credit cards and Care credit accepted New patients and emergencies welcome

We Cater To Cowards

Your locally-owned Nick-N-Willy’s Pizza

683 Horizon Drive (Next to Safeway)

Grand Junction

970-245-6425

Valid Daily 11am to 2pm One coupon per customer, per visit. Not valid with any other offers, coupons OR in-store specials. Valid only at participating locations. Customer responsible for applicable sales tax.

Expires: March 31, 2016

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

For the puzzle answers see page 46

Across 1 Round peg in a round hole 6 Delhi streetwear 10 Decays 14 Poet’s inspiration 15 “I agree!”

16 Euclid’s lake 17 Latent 20 Impresario Hurok 21 Time frames 22 Parser’s parts 23 Traveler 25 Fateful March date 26 Jack Benny catchphrase 28 Where FDR met Stalin 30 Land of Esau’s descendants 34 In full voice 36 Play opener 38 See red?

39 On the mat 43 Honshu shrine -center 44 Cartoon expletive 45 Hearth bit 46 “Leaving Las Vegas” girl 48 Inappro-priate 51 Prime minister Moro 52 Hoops great Willis 54 Bonanza dad 56 Sacred text of Islam 58 Oliver Twist’s request

FUN & GAMES 43

A Great Place to Call Home!

FUN & GAMES

MARCH 2016

 Quiet 55+ Adult Community  New & Pre-Owned Homes  Free RV Storage  On-Site Manager  Resident Club House

Turn to page 46 for your puzzle answers 59 Greek letter 62 Blue 65 Auerbach and Buttons 66 Sovereign state began in 1937 67 Longest river in France 68 Robin’s -residence 69 Paper for the house 70 Single-celled micro-organism Down 1 Early -socialist presidential candidate Eugene 2 Popular cookie 3 Non-dancer at the dance 4 Ike’s W.W.II domain 5 More humble in status 6 Libyan hot spot 7 “Rag Mop” brothers 8 Matter for the courts 9 Flood 10 Say nay!

11 Port on the Mediter-ranean 12 Annoying facial -movements 13 Come to understand 18 Deuce -topper 19 School builder?

24 President Chester Arthur’s middle name

25 “The Seven Year ___” 26 Sinai streambeds 27 Notched irregularly 29 Strong frothy espresso 31 Dieter’s bane 32 Held title 33 Way around downtown 35 Country P.O. letters?

37 Vanilla of rap 40 Got one’s bearings 41 Big name in cartography 42 Sultanate on the Gulf 47 Put the cuffs on 49 Turned the field 50 Burned -rubber 53 Cochlea locale 55 Royal -kingdom 56 Capped joint 57 Tote board data 58 Like a bagatelle?

60 Daughter of Cronus 61 Bugged 62 Large -coffeepot 63 Giddyup!

64 “Me ___ !”

Crossword Puzzle

44 CLASSIFIEDS

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

To Place a Classified Ad...

4 EASY STEPS!

 Mesa  Montrose/Delta  Choose Issue:  Write your ad: ....................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................

ASSISTED LIVING

writers wanted

MONUMENT ASSISTED LIVING 2194 McKinley Drive, Beautiful 8-bed home in the Redlands. Now accepting private Medicaid and pay clients. Call Valerie at 970-618-0636.

The Beacon Senior newspaper is looking for writers in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

FOR SALE Gently used Quantum Electric Power Chair and gently used Electric Hospital Bed 970-250-2689

........................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................

HELP WANTED

...........................................................................................................................

CAMP MANAGER The Trustees for the Grand Mesa Christian Camp, located on the south shore of Baron Lake, are looking to hire a camp manager for this next summer. Work would begin mid-June through mid-August and weekends the latter part of August through most of September. Please call Jim Mackley at 242-4794 or Max Stites at 256-7797 for details.

........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................

Start running my ad in the month of .....................................................................

For this many months ......................

 Pay for it: Rates: $29 for 30 words or less. Additional words $1 each.

 cash

 check

 credit card # ............................................................... name on card ............................................................... exp. date ..................................... cvc ........................

Additional $10 for both publications.

 Send it in:

BEACON, PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 fax: 1 800 536-7516 email: beacon@pendantpublishing.com

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

QUESTIONS? Call us M-TH, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • FRI, 9 a.m.-Noon 970 243-8829 • www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

WENDY’S NOW HIRING! Shift supervisors and crew members. We are looking for smiling faces and positive attitudes. We offer competitive pay, discounts and a great working environment. Full-time and part-time employment available. Please apply at your nearest location in Grand Junction.

JANITORIAL Experienced supervisor, commercial cleaning. Individuals, teams, husbands and wives, retirees, seniors. Evenings and weekends.

Part-time. Please call 255-0525, M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Grand Junction residents only please.

sales person wanted The Beacon Senior newspaper is growing and we’re looking for a mature, loving sales person to grow with us.

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

HOME CARE PASCO/SW, INC.

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

Please call for courtesy evaluation of your home care needs.

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

www.pascosw.com

MAYFIELD SENIOR CARE, LLC. Two openings for private pay clients. Professional and compassionate home care including cooking (from scratch), light housekeeping, laundry, assistance to appointments, shopping, office administration, pet care. Insured and Local References.

970-683-1414. jenniferjane@mayfieldseniorcare.com PERSONAL CAREGIVER to do light housecleaning, run errands, cook, and assist with bathing, personal care and laundry.

References available. Contact Shona at 208-5890.

HOME SERVICES ERRANDS, SHOPPING, HELP WITH APPOINTMENTS. $10 an hour.

1 hour minimum. Call Linda 970-523-0218.

HOUSE CLEANING & MORE! Safe and secure, small-animal pet sitting at your home. Also, the best house cleaning in the valley. Grand Junction/Clifton area ONLY. Call

MARCH 2016

CLASSIFIEDS 45

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

to reserve your space on Thursday afternoons or Friday mornings.

References available. Discounts for seniors. Call Benni at 241-2611.

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CLEANING

By KayDee the Cleaning Lady.

Dependable, efficient and insured.

Please call for references! KayDee at 623-4722 (cell) or 241-1270 (office). PO Box 394, Grand Junction, CO 81502.

YOU DESERVE A BREAK TODAY! Thoughtful, in-home companionship for you or your loved ones.

Walking, shopping, transportation, recreational activities and fun outings. References available. Call Mary 254-1787. Please leave message.

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

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

GARDEN MAINTENANCE Spring clean up, prune and fertilize bushes and plants. Specialize in flower gardens, planting flower containers, vegetable gardens and planters. Call Diane for FREE estimate. 970-903-6684 ANTIQUES, APPRAISALS, ESTATE SALES With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home, or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048.

RELIABLE ESTATE SALES Professionally Conducted Estate Sales. Complete Estate Evaluations/ Appraisals. Farm and Ranch Sales.

Our Very Popular Buyout/Cleanout Option. Many References, Insured, ASEL Accredited. The Proven Professionals. www.reliableestatesales. net Mark Bluhm cash2015@charter. net 260-2327.

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES Up to two FREE grab bars with purchase of walk-in tub or showers.

Licensed plumber/handyman. Serving Western Colorado since 1989.

Free estimates. Compare and save!

985-1403.

WANTED TO BUY CASH PAID FOR OLD STUFF Wind-up men’s wrist/pocket watches, gold and silver jewelry, pocket/ hunting knives, antique firearms, fishing gear, toys, BB guns, old Colorado bottles, old motorcycles, radios and amps, railroad, military, mining items. Cash2015@charter. net OR www.cash4oldstuff.net.

Mark 260-2327.

USED BOOKS BUY, SELL OR TRADE Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational, and many others. Large print. Special orders.

242-3911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. Located in front of North Ave. Walmart and next to Subway. 10-6 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sunday. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

Did you know the BEACON has a Facebook page?

Like us! www.facebook.com/BeaconSeniorNews

NATIONAL CLASSIFIEDS MARCH 2016 TRAVEL ALL INCLUSIVE CRUISE package on the Norwegian Sky out of Miami to the Bahamas. Pricing as low as $299 pp for 3 Day or $349 pp for 4 Day (double occupancy) - ALL beverages included! For more info. call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPtravel.com Considering an all-inclusive vacation? - Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and more! It’s not too late to book! Visit NCPtravel.com or call 877-270-7260 for more information.

AUTO SALES OR AUTO DONATIONS Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible.

Call 1-800-245-0398 AUTO’S WANTED CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local!

7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY $500-$1000 Daily Returning Phone Calls! No Selling, No Explaining! Not MLM! Call 1-800-886-0214 Get $500-$5000+ Daily! Return Phone Calls and Get Daily Cash Flow! Not MLM. No Investments, No Risk, No selling. SHORT OVERVIEW: 1-888-812-1214 Seeking accredited Investors for Independent film. ROI first year principal + 20%. Oscar nominee producer. Low budget=high ROI. Call 800-737-6045 WANTED: Representatives for new brain health product. $2800 to $3100/month potential, 8 income streams.

Call for info & sample: 1-888-524-7982. CODE: BBRP1 WANTED: Click Agents! NO experience necessary. Cashin from the huge demand for quality Internet leads.

Everything provided. www.GetAllTheSecrets.com/click EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING 25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a driver for Stevens Transport! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! New drivers earn $800+ per week! PAID CDL TRAINING! Stevens covers all costs! 1-888-734-6714 drive4stevens.com

NEW YEAR, NEW AIRLINE CAREER. Get FAA approved certification at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Call AIM 888-686-1704 HOME RENTALS STOP RENTING! Option To Buy! Rent To Own. No Money Down! No Credit Check! Call Now 1-877-395-1291 MISCELLANEOUS CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com Lower Your TV, Internet & Phone Bill!!! Get Fast Internet from $15/mo - qualifying service. Limited Time Offer.

Plus, get a FREE $300 Gift Card. Call 855-693-1333 Today!

TOP CASH PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920’s thru 1980’s.

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www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2016

Free Screening of “A Life Ascending”

FUN & GAMES Game answers from page 43

Hosted by RMPBS and Mesa County Libraries

R

Wow Only $ 195 per YEAR!*

*Seniors 65 years & older

“I want to stay in my home as long as possible. at’s why I called the Tile Meister to make my bathroom safe.” ―Dixie

ocky Mountain PBS, in partnership with Mesa County Libraries, offers a free community screening of Stephen Grynberg’s documentary “A Life Ascending,” an engrossing and meditative portrait of an adventuresome family’s existence forged in harmony with the natural elements. The film will screen Wednesday, March 16 in the Community Room of the Mesa County Central Library, 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction.

“A Life Ascending” chronicles the life of acclaimed mountaineer Ruedi Beglinger. Living with his wife and two young daughters on a remote glacier in the vast mountains of British Columbia, Beglinger has built a reputation as one of the top

ski mountaineering guides in the world.

The film follows his family’s unique life off the grid and their journey in the years following a devastating avalanche that killed seven people. Documenting the sublime beauty and ever-present risk of a life lived on the edge, the film ultimately explores the power of nature as both an unforgiving host and profound teacher.

The Grand Junction screening of “A Life Ascending” will begin with wine and appetizers at 6 pm, followed by the film at 6:30 pm.

The evening will conclude with a brief audience discussion.

Visit www.rmpbs.org/cinema for more information. ■

FREE Screening

A Life Ascending

Living with his wife and two young daughters on a remote glacier in the vast mountains of British Columbia, Ruedi Beglinger has built a reputation as one of the top ski mountaineering guides in the world. Follows his family’s unique life off the grid and their journey in the years following a devastating avalanche.

TILE MEISTER

Easy Access Showers

Wednesday, March 16 at 6pm Mesa County Central Library 5th and Grand, Grand Junction, CO 81501 Panel discussion after the film • Open to the public • No charge for admission Free food and wine provided by Talon Wine Brands and No Coast Sushi

 Convert

your tub to a walk-in shower  Barrier free units available Receive a Shower Chair (Not as shown)

611 North 1st Street Grand Junction, CO www.tilemeister.com Hours: Mon-Fri 9-4:30 Saturday 10-2

& 3 Grab Bars FREE ($250 value) *Offer not valid on current installations.

Expires 5/31/2016

Did you know the BEACON has a Facebook page?

Like us! www.facebook.com/BeaconSeniorNews

MARCH 2016

VALENTINE’S DANCE 47

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Valentine’s Dance R

The Beacon & Hil ltop Senior living Co mm unities

hythm filled the air and romance filled their hearts at the 3rd Annual BEACON/Hilltop Valentine’s Dance. Like a fine wine, the event has matured and gotten better with each passing Singlesme Welco year. This was no more evident than in the music performed by Clark Gault’s Swing City Express. The band added a 12th member this year and Clark worked on refining the arrangements + accordingly. The food, prepared by Hilltop’s own amazing kitchens, was the best ever. One FE BR UA RY 13 enthusiastic patron was overheard saying, “I 7 :3 0 .p m .- .1 0 :3 0 .p m haven’t seen shrimp this Ho rs d' o euv res  Ba r big since I was visiting cla rk gau lt' s sw ing cit y exp res s the Gulf.” Many attracThe Commons of Hilltop Garden R tive and elaborately oom 625 27- 1/2 RO AD Z GR AN D JUN CTI ON coiffed women were on AD VA NC E TIC KET hand for dancing, while  $2 0 PER PER SO N  $4 0SPER the men bolstered their CO UP LE AT TH E DO OR courage with Glenmo $2 5 PER PER SO N  $5 0 PER CO UP LE rangie Scotch, bought W FO R TIC KE TS CA LL 243 -88 29 W special for the occasion.

Now, one must wait 12 long months for the social soiree of the year. ■

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