May 2022 - Beacon Senior News

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

Whole Lotta Love

MAY 2022

Delta cellist played with some of music’s greats Happy Mother’s Day to the moms who can sing and those who can’t carry a tune! Page 20

SCAM ALERT! If my kids read this, they may take away my internet passwords

See what’s blooming at Ute Indian Museum in Montrose

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Shelly Smith

Owner & Loan Originator

“I can’t believe I can do this in my hometown.”

NMLS # 273372 | shelly@tcfinance.net

These were the words my borrower said to me after we closed his reverse loan a couple weeks ago! “Gene Sampson” lives in Loma and had been receiving flyers from reverse lenders all over the country for many months. He was utterly on overload as to which one he should go with or who to believe. He started calling a few and said some would call back, some wouldn’t, and others would promise the moon. He actually had obtained a reverse loan in the past on a different property that he had since sold, but that loan was through a large nationally known reverse lender and he thought this was still the way he had to go.

One day, however, Gene opened up his Beacon newspaper and saw our ad. He gave our office a call and the rest is history!

We were able to process and fund Mr. Sampson’s reverse loan in 45 days. We love reverse loans at Town & Country in Fruita because in many ways they are still the “old fashioned way” of doing business. We will sit down with you face to face and discuss your reasons for doing or not doing a reverse. You can electronically sign your documents or sign them physically. You can come to our office or we will come to your home. We will be at your closing to make sure you understand what you are signing. No mailing back and forth to a large processing center and waiting months to close.

Give our office a call if you would like a free copy of the pamphlet, “Use your home to stay at home”. We will be glad to mail you a copy!

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3

MEDICARE INFO TO KNOW A Medicare 101 series brought to you by the local, experienced insurance agents at the Medicare Resource Center of Grand Junction.

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I N T HI S I S S U E

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado May 2022 | Volume 35 | Issue 5

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin Graphic Designers B. Bigler Michael L. Madsen Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude

8 COVER STORY Whole Lotta Love

Cellist Martha Ditto toured and did studio work with big-name musicians like Dolly Parton and Led Zeppelin

10

24 Caregivers caring for caregivers

Grand Junction’s La Villa Grande Care Center helped Boulder-area seniors and staff in wake of Marshall Fire

26 Survival kits for grandkids

Do you like to camp with your grand kids? Then a child’s survival kit is a must

28

Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy Advertising Executive Debra Romaniec Advertising & Marketing Assistant Kayla Pool Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Lauren VanGundy Brittney Bade

P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 Phone: 970-243-8829 Website:

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON brings hope and help to western Colorado seniors and those who serve them.

The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month and is distributed at more than 300 locations throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement.

Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 15th of the month. Display advertising rates are available upon request. © Copyright 2022 • All Rights Reserved

Reinvent yourself after 50 There are four components that influence your quality of life as you age.

Local seniors share how they reinvented themselves after 50

13 Is my cat an adventure cat?

UNESCO heritage sites in the United States

15 5 thyroid myths debunked

32 Jesus understands loneliness

These signs can help you determine whether your cat is confident enough for outdoor activities How to notice the symptoms of thyroid disease before it gets serious

16 Not getting enough Zzzzs?

Try these 15 tricks to better sleep

18 Laughing Matters

Who hates speeding tickets?

Raise your right foot!

20 Musical memories with Mom

Maybe we should all joyfully throw our tone-deaf voices to the sky like my mother did

22

Explore beauty and wonder at these sites of “outstanding universal value” Imagine what living in this world of sin was like for Jesus

33 Modern-day couponing

Shopping apps are a smarter and faster way to save

38 Food programs for seniors

Region 10, Shepherd’s Hand and Volunteers of America provide meals to Montrose and Delta seniors

40 MESA COUNTY 40 Calendar

42 Clubs

46 Support Groups 48 MONTROSE & DELTA 48 Calendar

50 Clubs & Support Groups 56 Classifieds

On the Cover

In addition to playing with Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, cellist Martha Ditto did studio work for Al Hirt, Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Slim Whitman and Dolly Parton.

Should you till your garden?

The pros and cons of tilling your soil and how to integrate regenerative practices into your garden

58 Will independent medical practices become extinct?

The shift away from independent care towards mega-providers should be alarm patients and policymakers

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Seniors have a friend in Real Estate The Mesa Group at Keller Williams Senior Real Estate Division We are proud to introduce our Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES)…

Carol Gerber is the longest-standing SRES agent in Mesa County. A Colorado native who has called Grand Junction her home for over 45 years. During which she's raised six children and owned three businesses. (You may remember the Peachtree Inn Restaurant and Lounge, Hilltop Liquors, and On No! Another Burger Joint.)

Carol's current passions include spending time with her great-grandchildren, volunteering in the community, most recently with veteran’s organizations, and helping seniors with their real estate needs.

As we and our parent's age we face unique challenges. Carol knows firsthand the difficult decisions that need to be made in this stage of life. With understanding, compassion, and expertise Carol and her team can help you.

Carol Gerber, SRES 970-234-2037 CarolGerber@kw.com

Kristie Gerber is the newest member of the team to receive her SRES and has had her real estate license since 2007. As Carol's daughter Kristie has learned from her mom what service is about. She too volunteers in the community. Most recently, she is helping at Catholic Outreach.

Kristie has raised her 4 children here in the Grand Valley. And now, with grandchildren, she has a handle on what younger seniors are looking for. Now with her SRES ( Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation, she is looking forward to serving the senior community. Best yet, she knows this valley like the back of her hand.

Kristie Gerber, SRES 970-216-2541

KristieGerber18@gmail.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY SUPPORT

More inspired

than retired.

Spirit, vision and insight. I’ll bring it.

I’m appreciated as much for the hopes and aspirations I bring to my community as I am for my accomplishments.

What will you bring to Cappella of Grand Junction?

ASK ABOUT OUR MOVE-IN SPECIALS! 970.610.0040 A Neighborhood of

CHRISTIAN LIVING COMMUNITIES

6 | MAY 2022 |

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628 26½ Rd. | Grand Junction, CO 81506 | cappellagrandjunction.com

EDITOR'S COLUMN

Moms who rock

Mot her’s Day Of

my mom’s four daughters, she said I was the most badly behaved child. I threw tantrums when I didn’t get my way and fought with my little sister constantly. Even as a kid, I had high expectations and was very discerning with the outfits I wore and how my hair looked (much more so than today). I despised the bangs my mom refused to let me grow out and hated sharing clothes and hand-me-downs from my older sister.

I remember exhibiting most of these bad behaviors but I’m pretty sure I can justify them all. (After all, how was it my fault that my sister was an annoying little twerp?)

I’m kidding, of course.

In spite of my attitude, my mom did a great job raising us. Not a day goes by that I don’t remind her of how great of an adult I turned out to be. In fact, I tell her that I’ve redeemed my bratty self because I turned out to be the prettiest and most well-rounded adult out of all of her kids. (Since my sisters aren’t “old enough” to read the BEACON yet, this is absolutely 100 percent true.)

I know raising us wasn’t easy. At one point, she was a single parent of three girls, working three jobs to make ends meet. As a teenager, I tried to be respectful to her although I most certainly fell short. She wasn’t perfect either, but I’ve always looked up to her. She gives great

advice when I need it, and doesn’t when she knows I need to decide for myself (and I love her for that!)

Do you know who else has a great mom? My husband.

Other than raising a kind-hearted (and incredibly handsome) young man, she also had a hand in raising me. As a teenager, she drove me to school until she taught me how to drive.

She and my father-in-law housed me, fed me (and my friends) in college, and still support me in more ways than I can keep track of.

Another mom to me is actually a dear friend who I’ve known since I was a teenager. This self-less woman has a way of raising me up and making me feel precious and important, even when I wasn’t feeling low to begin with. She expresses her love in ways that don’t come naturally to most people, whether by offering help during moments of stress (of which there are many), listening to my ramblings over dinner, sharing my accomplishments on Facebook, writing random love notes and texting me videos of puppies.

My husband and I don’t have kids, but if/ when we do, I hope they’re close reflections of these wonderful women who love me. With all three of these women, I’ve shared moments of sheer joy, love, surprise, fun and faith, which I’ll treasure always. ■

LETTERS

from our readers God bless you for all you do. It’s such a wonderful magazine—very informative.

- Grace R., Palisade I love your magazine! I live in Boulder, but grew up in Grand Junction. Wasn’t Quincy’s Bar named The Beacon in the ’60s?

- Tom M. Thank you for sharing Chef Kristeen’s Brownie Mint Truffle recipe on Facebook. It is a winner for sure!

- La Villa Grande Care Center Re: BeaconFest is April 28!

We are excited to attend BeaconFest this year! It’s right around the corner!

- Colorado Advanced Orthopedics Sports Medicine & Spine Always a good time!

- Mesa Meal Kits I’ll go! But at first I read “bacon,” and I was all over that!

- Chris V. I always look forward to reading the BEACON, and I look forward to attending BeaconFest every year!

- Sherry R. RE: April issue Thanks for running Kris Geerken’s column (“Ageism in health care”)! Other comments - as a (non-directed) kidney donor, I loved that article (“Can you spare a kidney?)! But as an older adult and lifelong chubby person, I was surprised to see yet another diet that focuses on quick weight loss, not long-term health (“Countdown to summer diet”). Keep up your great work!

- Katie I got my BEACON and I think it’s the most interesting and best one yet.

- Anonymous caller RE: How old is old? (March) Getting old is a matter of time. Feeling old is different.

- Jan P. RE: Worker shortage? Make it easier to apply! (March) Absolutely agree!

- Traci A.

Cloie Sandlin, Editor in Chief Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Email: Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com Mail: P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

7

Whole Lott a

Love

Delta cellist played with some of music’s greats Story and photos by Leanne Goebel

R

obert Plant blew her kisses when she toured with him and Jimmy Page. But she deflected those kisses, preferring the kiss of the bow on the strings of her cello.

Martha Ditto played with the Led Zeppelin duo on their No Quarter Tour in 1995. The tour included a 30-piece orchestra, in which she played the cello, and an Egyptian ensemble. Ditto sat behind the drummer Michael Lee, who performed in a plexiglass cage and was always breaking drumsticks.

“Pieces went flying everywhere,” said Ditto, who now lives in Delta.

From her vantage point she could see the band. Plant was always turned around looking at the drummer. Page would wave at her. The other cellists—all men—told her, “You know what that means. You’re supposed to go to his dressing room.”

But Ditto wasn’t a groupie—she was a gifted and accomplished cellist.

MARINATED IN MUSIC For 60 years, Ditto has been passionate about the cello…and goats. But the goats came later.

8 | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Born in Wisconsin but raised in Louisiana, Ditto grew up in a musical family. Her mother studied to be a concert pianist and was the church organist. Her father had an amazing voice, she said, and played the flute and bass.

Her older brother played trombone, French horn, trumpet and bugle, and her younger sister is a violinist.

Her mother had a friend in her music club who played the cello. Watching and listening to her play is how Ditto first fell in love with the instrument.

She began following in her mother’s footsteps and took piano lessons. In third grade she told her mother she didn’t want to play piano anymore.

“My mother said she wouldn’t force me to play,” said Ditto. “My piano teacher cried.”

In fourth grade, when her elementary school handed out musical instruments, Ditto came home with a cello.

“I’ve been blessed with some awesome people in my life,” Ditto said.

By that, she means Leonard Chausow, principal cellist with the Chicago Symphony and Eleanor Slatkin, cellist of the Hollywood String Quartet, who headed the string department at DePaul University between 1968-1970. These were her cello teachers in high school when the family moved to Chicago. Ditto auditioned for Slatkin who told her,

< Ditto’s backstage passes and articles from her time playing with Robert Plant and Jimmy Page on their No Quarter Tour.

Currently, Ditto plays with the Valley Symphony Association and continues to teach cello. > song was “My Home’s in Alabama” by the group Alabama. It went platinum.

According to Ditto, session music is very political. She was told: “If you’re going to work in this industry, you need to know who you’re working for, who you’re playing for.”

Often, she didn’t know. Ditto just wanted to play and go home. After she missed a Barbara Mandrell session because she had a baby, she did less and less session work. With three children she focused more on union work, which paid better.

A NEW LOVE

SHE DID STUDIO WORK FOR AL HIRT, LORETTA LYNN, GEORGE JONES, WILLIE NELSON, SLIM WHITMAN AND DOLLY PARTON. “Okay. We’re going to fix a lot of things. But, I’ll teach you.”

She continued teaching Ditto, even after she went to college.

Ditto attended Peabody College at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. Slatkin kept in touch and invited Ditto and her husband to visit Cincinnati to see her son Leonard Slatkin conduct. Then she traveled to see Ditto at school and asked to sit in on a quartet rehearsal. Ditto said her cello teacher, dumbfounded that Eleanor Slatkin was coming, had the quartet rehearse for their rehearsal.

While studying music and performance at Peabody, Ditto played music and performed.

She freelanced and did studio work for Al Hirt, Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Slim Whitman and Dolly Parton. There were three string session groups in Nashville and Ditto played with all of them. She spent 11 years with the Nashville Symphony.

In 1980, a contractor called her to play on a late-night session. Ditto came dressed from her performance with the symphony to the studio where an unknown group came to record a song for music executive Harold Shedd. The

In 1995, she got a call from a reed player she knew. He had a gig for her touring with Plant and Page in a few towns across the southeastern U.S. Ditto played with them in Pensacola, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Knoxville and Memphis, Tennessee; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Cincinnati, Ohio.

She still has the set list from the March 5, 1995 show in Memphis. They opened with “Wanton Song” and ended on the eighteenth song,

PLANT SAID TO HER, “IT’S SO GOOD TO SEE YOU AGAIN,” AND SIGNED HER CREDENTIAL PASS. AFTER THE SHOW, THE MANAGER ASKED HER IF SHE WANTED TO GO BACKSTAGE. “In the Evening.” “Black Dog” and “Kashmir” were their encore.

In Little Rock, they played in a stockyard barn.

She and the other musicians had lockers. Plant walked through to get to his tiny dressing room and said to her, “It’s so good to see you again,” and signed her credential pass. After the show, as they were loading up, the manager asked her if she wanted to go backstage with the band.

“I’ve got to get on the bus,” she said.

Eventually Ditto tired of the politics, road life and touring. For the next 20 years she worked in a chiropractic office in Brentwood, Tennessee and then, when they opened another office in Pulaski, she commuted back and forth. The chiropractor she worked for asked a client if he knew anyone with a place to rent. Frank Ditto had a studio apartment he built on his 60-acre farm for his son, who only lived there a month.

She continued teaching cello and violin, and practiced in her apartment for her niece’s upcoming wedding in Indianapolis. Her car was failing so she asked Frank if he was up for an adventure. He drove her to Chicago and listened as she and her mother sat in the living room and played music together. Frank fell in love watching her play. They’ve been together now for 11 years.

In 2014, the Dittos moved to Delta, bringing a guard dog, goats and six hives of bees with them. She intended to park her cello, retire and raise goats, but the music keeps calling.

Currently, Ditto plays cello with the Valley Symphony Association, and continues to teach cello. She also recorded cello parts for David Starr’s “Beauty and Ruin” CD in his Cedaredge Studio. ■

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 |

9

Reinvent Yourself

By Laverne H. Bardy

I

was recently asked to give a talk about the wonder and excitement of reinventing yourself after 50.

The person who asked me said she viewed me as being a “liver” (as opposed to a kidney?) and thought my words might inspire others.

After considerable thought, I decided there are four components that influence the quality of one’s life after 50: attitude, humor, stress and purpose.

ATTITUDE. Your attitude colors your entire life, shaping how you perceive the world around you.

A positive attitude can find the remarkable in the mundane, tolerance in the intolerable and humor in the midst of sorrow. It reminds you to embrace the person you’ve become and not give a damn about

wrinkles or what others think.

Dr. Phil summed it up when he said: “You wouldn’t worry so much about what people think of you if you knew how seldom they did.” So stop yielding to yesterday’s belief of what seniors are supposed to look like. We walk around like we’ve got expiration dates stamped on our foreheads, but like celebrity peers George Clooney, Meryl Streep and Kevin Costner, we’re

How did you reinvent yourself?

living longer and are no longer behind the scenes.

We’re a force to be reckoned with. Instead of pining over yesterday, get interested and involved in today. Reconnect with your childhood by making a snow angel, getting a squirt gun to ambush your husband or jumping up and down on your bed. (And, don’t forget to have your medical alert button with you at all times.)

HUMOR. The more things you can find to laugh at, the happier you’ll be. Plus, laughing has many health benefits, such as: lowered blood pressure, reduced stress, diminished depression and reduced aggression. Studies show that laughing more may be as important as exercising, not smoking and eating a low-fat diet. Laughter also produces an overall sense of well-being and makes your heart

By Jan Weeks & Siggie Carpenter

Bill Ramsey Jan Hyland

GR AND JUN CTI ON

“I’ve always been a seamstress and when we moved here from Houston, I started quilting.

I meet other quilters at the Owls Nest on Tuesdays. It’s an informal group and I’ve made good friends with them. I make quilts for family members, and I love the mountains here.”

10 | MAY 2022 |

MO NTR OSE

Richard Hyland GRAND JUNCT ION

“I’m phasing out my international consulting company for industrial engineering. I’m already active in social justice groups, and when I finally retire I want to do more of that and more outdoor activities.”

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Jennifer Randall DELTA

“I’m still working, doing what I’ve done for years—only now, I’m finally the boss! I work the hours I want, doing what I’ve always loved by helping people feel less stressed about filing their taxes.”

“I officially retired about 5 years ago in New Jersey. A native Coloradoan, I moved back here because I like the area, the people and it’s more affordable. This past year, I’ve experienced some major life-changing events and having friends close by has helped. Retirement is a work in progress.”

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

WE’RE A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. INSTEAD OF PINING OVER YESTERDAY, GET INTERESTED AND INVOLVED TODAY. healthier. It’s the pressure valve that gets us through daily obstacles and challenges.

Funny things happen all around you all the time if you’re tuned in.

Like the time I waited for over half an hour in a crowded deli store before realizing I’d forgotten to take a number. Even though life isn’t fair, when you laugh at yourself or at your situation, you’re in control of your life.

REDUCE STRESS. We can’t avoid it but we can handle it. Playing board games regularly offers almost as much stress relief and prolonged life expectancy for people over 65 as for those who exercise regularly.

Playing music can lower your blood pressure and heart rate.

Having friendships is vital. Loneliness has been linked to making people more susceptible to stress, depression and other illnesses. We all need someone with whom to discuss our problems and share our good times.

PURPOSE. Become involved in something you feel passionate about—something that makes you feel useful and necessary, gets your juices flowing, causes you to spring out of bed in the morning and keeps you riveted long past bedtime. Having a purpose reduces stress and the risk of depression.

The bottom line is to eat sensibly, laugh and play a lot, move your body and remember that age is only a number. ■

“Last year, I retired as resident director at VOA’s Homestead because I wanted more time for myself and family. From day one, I was determined to stay active with hobbies and special projects. We took a relaxing vacation. I’m having fun playing golf with my husband and the ladies league. It takes time to adjust to retirement.

Waking up without any obligations feels wonderful. I’m still looking for my volunteer niche within my community.”

Regain your independence with Mobility Driven and our Agriculture Conversions!

The farm and ranch communities are a huge part of Western Colorado culture and one of the many reasons we choose to call this beautiful place home.

Agriculture accessibility is just one of our lifestyle conversion specialties.

We can modify tractors, combines and other selfpropelled farm machinery to make it easier for you to get onto your equipment and/or help you operate it.

From adding steps or installing a lift that assists you up into your equipment and places you in the correct position, to adding a set of custom agriculture hand controls, we are dedicated to finding a solution that works for you.

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We believe your mobility should never be limited by your ability

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“I’ve been working since I was 12 and plan to work until I’m 100. There’s a sign in my restaurant that says it all. It’s a quote from Theodore Roosevelt: ‘Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.’

We owe it to our bodies and minds to stay active.”

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Visit our website and Facebook page for photos and videos of how we can make this equipment work for you.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 |

11

RECIPES

Grand Junction 2536 Rimrock Ave, Suite 300 Grand Junction, CO 81505 (970) 773-9400 www.NothingBundtCakes.com

Brunch Fruit Tart

Recipe courtesy of www.HomemadeInterest.com

Ingredients Crust: 4 cups granola mixture 1/2 cup butter, softened 4 1/2 tablespoons honey nonstick cooking spray Filling: 2 1/4 cups vanilla Greek yogurt 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 package gelatin Toppings: Sliced strawberries, blueberries and kiwis

Directions To make crust: Preheat oven to 350° F. In large bowl, combine granola, butter and honey. Grease 11-inch tart pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line bottom of tart pan with parchment paper.

Press granola mixture into tart pan. Place tart pan on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes. Cool completely.

To make filling: Using mixer, combine yogurt, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract and gelatin until whipped completely.

Pour yogurt mixture into tart crust. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Top with strawberries, blueberries and kiwis.

See more recipes at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com 12 | RECIPES | MAY 2022 |

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Is my cat an adventure cat?

By Sara Ferguson

D

oing fun things with your cat can enrich his or her life and deepen your bond. Backpacking is great for some cats, but please ask these two questions before taking your cat out: Is she confident enough for this activity? And are you patient enough to train her?

TAIL UP, EARS FORWARD One way to tell if she is confident enough is to watch her reaction when the doorbell rings. If she comes running to the door with tail up and ears and whiskers forward, she may enjoy new experiences. A confident kitten under 4-6 months may be more easily trained for outside adventures.

If she hangs back or hides with new sounds or people, please reconsider. Cats instinctively know how vulnerable they are outside.

That’s why they get low to the ground and head for cover when scared.

WALK INDOORS Next, find the right equipment.

For her own safety, she should be harness trained before going outside. This is a process of gradually adapting her to a secure harness or walking jacket so she feels comfortable walking around (or even playing) in one while still inside.

Once she’s accustomed to the harness, take her for practice walks around the house while giving her treats. If she likes that, you can start to take her outside. If you live in an apartment, practicing walks in the hallway is perfect.

Choose a quiet time when she will meet the fewest people. If neighbors do appear, take time to introduce them to her and show her they aren’t strangers. Let them feed her a treat, too.

TAKE HER OUTSIDE

ASK YOURSELF IF TRYING TO MAKE HER INTO AN ADVENTURE CAT IS WORTH IT IF YOU LOSE HER FOREVER. around your home or hallway, you can take her outside. I suggest carrying her over the threshold every time so she does not turn into a door darter. Again, choose a quiet time outdoors with the least foot traffic. Let her move around at her own pace.

Once you know she enjoys being outside (tail up and ears forward), you can introduce her to the backpack. Choose a backpack big enough so she can lie down, both for rest and if she needs to retreat from anything scary. Introduce the backpack inside. Make it a fun place to hang out in, just like you would her carrier. Place her favorite food and toys in it so it becomes a normal part of the furniture.

Once she’s very comfortable with the pack, put on her walking jacket and let her go outside. Zip her in (many packs have a hook inside to attach her leash to) and go for a short walk around the house.

Reward her when she’s inside. Let her out and reward her again. Use high-protein, yummy treats and give her lots of rewards to make everything as pleasant as possible before you even go outside.

Just like carrier training, go gradually, treating all the while, to make going outside a fun thing to do.

This is where training a confident kitten will probably lead to your most successful adventures.

READ HER BODY LANGUAGE Pay attention to what she is telling you with her body language. If she crouches with ears low, whiskers back and dilated pupils, she is

PET PAGE

afraid. A fearful cat is not having fun outside in your backpack, no matter how much fun you are having.

A recent webinar with Kimberley Freeman, a professional tracker who finds lost cats, reported that the adventure cat trend has dramatically increased her lost cat cases. If your cat is a less confident adult, please ask yourself if trying to make her into an adventure cat is worth it if you lose her forever.

If you have a confident cat (tail up and ears forward), plan thoughtfully, go gradually and train thoroughly. For some cats, travel is a wonderful extension of your time with them. For the other 95 percent, a walk in the back yard may be adventure enough. ■

Sara Ferguson is the Director of Happy Cats Haven in Manitou Springs. Her monthly blog, Ask Ms. Kitty, offers advice and resources on cat behavior.

Read more articles at www.happycatshaven.org

Once she’s comfortably walking WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | PET PAGE |

13

HEALTHY GEEZER

What is the leading cause of brain injuries?

H

alf of all traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are caused by accidents involving automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians. For people 75 and older, falls cause the majority of TBIs, resulting in high rates of hospitalization and death.

If you suffer a head injury, you may experience headaches, vomiting, nausea, sleepiness, convulsions, dilated pupils, slurred speech, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, loss of coordination, confusion, agitation, blurred- or double vision, dizziness, respiratory failure, paralysis, slow pulse, ringing in the ears, inappropriate emotional responses, and loss of bowel or bladder control.

Anyone with signs of moderate or severe TBI should receive medical attention as soon as possible, especially if you take blood thinners. Although little can be done

to reverse the initial brain damage, medical personnel often focus on preventing further injury.

About 1.4 million people suffer a TBI each year in the United States.

There are a few different types: • Concussion - An injury produced by a violent blow or impact, which is sometimes followed by a temporary or prolonged loss of function. If you suffer a concussion, you may pass out, feel dazed and lose vision, balance or memory.

• Contusion - A bruise of the brain, which means there could be bleeding or swelling.

• Skull fracture - Sometimes the edges of broken skull bones cut into the brain and cause bleeding or other injury.

• Hematoma - Bleeding in the brain that collects and clots, forming a bump.

Patients with mild to moderate injuries may receive skull and neck X-rays to check for bone fractures or spinal instability. Physical, occupational and speech/language therapy might also be necessary treatment options.

Approximately half of severely head-injured patients will need surgery to remove or repair hematomas or contusions.

Healing of the brain takes time and a lot of rest. About 40 percent of TBI patients suffer from post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and may experience headaches, vertigo, memory problems, trouble

concentrating, sleeping problems, restlessness, irritability, apathy, depression and anxiety for weeks or months after the injury.

Some TBI patients have sensory problems and may develop tinnitus, a ringing in the ears. Language and communication problems are also common.

Most TBI patients have emotional or behavioral problems that fit under the broad category of psychiatric health. In addition to the immediate post-injury complications, in the long term, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and dementia may also develop. ■

HEALTHY GEEZER

BY FRED CICETTI Send your general health questions to Healthy Geezer in care of the BEACON, or email him at Fred@HealthyGeezer.com

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5 thyroid myths

debunked

U

nexplained fatigue, hair falling out quickly, feeling cold, and being concerned you’re losing your mind are hallmark symptoms of thyroid illness, which often goes undiagnosed due to poor standards for testing.

Though this topic may not interest a person until a doctor says you have a “thyroid problem,” it’s not necessary to wait until the diagnosis is upon you. You can notice the trademark symptoms yourself, and get help before it becomes too serious. To do that, make sure you can separate these myths from facts.

Myth: You need a physician

to find out if you have thyroid illness.

Fact: You can order at-home

blood tests or tests from your doctor’s office without a diagnosis.

I recommend the Thyroid Profile or TPO antibodies. While you can test yourself, you do need to seek a physician for proper treatment and help. Thyroid issues are not something you can self-treat.

Myth: Certain diets can manage

hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Fact: Diet alone will not cure

anyone. Low or high thyroid hormone production requires natural or conventional medication, or a little bit of both. The two common meds are natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) or levothyroxine. You will need a physician to write you a prescription for medication and treat you properly.

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Myth: Thyroid disease does not affect fertility.

Fact: This is false. Thyroid prob-

lems make it harder to become pregnant, and the risk for miscarriage is higher.

Myth: You can’t eat cauliflow-

er, broccoli or Brussels sprouts if you have thyroid disease because it can enhance goiter formation.

Fact: No. It’s the raw consumption that has a small, potentially negative impact, but you’d have to eat a lot of them! If you cook your vegetables, you can eat them with no problem, and they are very healthy.

Myth: If you’ve been taking a

medication and it has stopped working, that means you are getting worse.

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tion and you no longer respond, you may need a different dosage or adrenal support. The thyroid gland and the adrenal glands work together. You may need natural herbal adaptogens to improve adrenal fatigue. Once your adrenals are balanced, your thyroid medication will begin to work like magic! If you have been stressed for a very long time, you may benefit more from a desiccated thyroid pill than from levothyroxine, which is T4.

The T4 doesn’t convert very well to active thyroid hormone ■

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

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15

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Not getting enough Zzzzs?

15 tricks to better sleep

By Kimberly Blaker

F

or many, getting a solid night’s sleep is as elusive as winning the lottery. Getting too little sleep is so common that it’s become almost a badge of honor to get through each day with sleep deprivation. Even if you feel like you can function on little sleep, it’s actually debilitating—if not dangerous—to a person’s health and mental faculties.

Not getting enough sleep increases the risk of obesity, memory impairment, illness and even hallucinations or death. Falling asleep is a common problem. But sleep quality is also crucial for optimum brain function and recovery.

Fortunately, there are many ways to train your body and mind to fall asleep more quickly and improve your sleep quality.

1. Create a relaxing nighttime ritual. Starting a routine to wind down every night creates an association between nighttime habits and sleep, preparing your body to relax and fall asleep more quickly.

Try drinking a soothing tea like chamomile. Or use aromatherapy with scents such as lavender that promote relaxation.

2. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. This gets your body into a regular sleepwake pattern, which regulates your circadian rhythm and makes falling and staying asleep easier. It may be tempting to sleep in on the weekends to make up for lost sleep. But this may actually hurt you in the long term.

3. Avoid alcohol at night. Though it may help you fall asleep, drinking alcohol before bed significantly reduces your sleep quality.

4. Be careful with naps. A long afternoon nap can make it more difficult to fall asleep at night. Keep naps short and as early in the day as possible.

5. Track your sleep. Different technologies are available to track your sleeping patterns, including rest-

IF YOU USE SCREENS AT NIGHT, GLASSES ARE AVAILABLE TO FILTER OUT THE BLUE LIGHT TO PREVENT EYE STRAIN.

HEALTH & WELLNESS falling asleep because your mind is racing? Writing down your thoughts can help to keep them from swirling incessantly through your brain so you can relax.

14. Use your bed and bedroom for sleep only. This creates a specific association, so your body and mind know it’s time to rest.

Also, keep electronics out of the bedroom.

WRITING DOWN YOUR THOUGHTS CAN HELP TO KEEP THEM FROM SWIRLING INCESSANTLY THROUGH YOUR BRAIN SO YOU CAN RELAX. lessness, awake and sleep times, and how long you’re in each part of the sleep cycle. This can help you find how many hours you individually need for optimal function.

stimulating. Likewise, so is much of the content on the screens. If you use screens at night, glasses are available to filter out the blue light to prevent eye strain.

6. Practice meditation and mindfulness. Regularly practicing these can help calm your mind and body.

Through progressive relaxation, you slowly focus on each part of your body, moving from head to feet, while releasing tension and consciously relaxing your muscles.

8. Use breathing techniques. One popular method to fall asleep is 4-7-8. First, breathe in through your nose for a count of four. Then hold your breath for seven, and exhale out your mouth for eight.

7. Avoid screens an hour before bed. Looking at the bright light is

9. Listen to soothing white noise, music or podcasts. Many of these audio productions are designed to help put you to sleep.

10. Stop drinking caffeine after midday. Caffeine is a stimulant, which can affect your mind and body hours after consumption.

11. Make sure your room is dark for sleep and that you get natural light during the day. This regulates your circadian rhythm and provides external cues for your body.

12. Exercise in the morning. Being physically active, especially early in the day, is associated with better sleep.

13. Journal or keep paper by your bed. Do you have a hard time

15. Try a natural supplement.

Melatonin, magnesium and CBD are some of the options touted as supporting relaxation and sleep.

Be sure to check with your doctor before taking any supplements to ensure you do so safely.

If behavioral changes aren’t working, discuss your sleep concerns with your doctor. You may have an undiagnosed sleeping disorder that requires medical intervention. Depending on your doctor’s findings, medications and breathing treatments may help improve your sleep. ■

Serving Grand Junction We are pleased to now offer our Cardiac and Vascular Services to the Western Colorado Community NEW Cardiology Medical Practice and Outpatient Procedure Lab Advanced Heart and Vein Center serves its patients by providing cardiac and endovascular services. We provide clinic consults, stress testing, echocardiograms, peripheral, renal and carotid ultrasound testing.

We also offer same day discharge peripheral angiogram and venogram procedures in our own outpatient procedure lab to better serve the patient with a cost-effective care model.

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | HEALTH & WELLNESS |

17

REAL MOTHERS

Submitted by A. Wendell Real mothers don’t eat quiche; they don’t have time to make it.

Real mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.

Real mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids.

Real mothers know that dried Play-Doh doesn’t come out of shag carpets.

Real mothers don’t want to know what the vacuum just sucked up.

Real mothers sometimes ask, “Why me?” and get their answer when a little voice says, “Because I love you best.”

Real mothers know that a child’s

growth is not measured by height or years or grade. It is marked by the progression of Mama to Mommy to Mom.

FUNNY SIGNS

Submitted by Jan Weeks In a bookstore: The Post-Apocalyptical Fiction section has been moved to Current Affairs.

Highway marquee: Who hates speeding tickets? Raise your right foot.

Outside a local shop: Shop local—because Amazon won’t sponsor your kids’ baseball team.

At a hotel desk: Dogs are welcome in this hotel.

We’ve never had a dog that smoked in bed and set fire to the blankets.

We never had a dog that stole our towels and played the TV too loud, or had a noisy fight with his traveling companion. We never had a dog that got drunk and broke up the furniture. So if your dog can vouch for you, you’re welcome, too.

Outside a synagogue in Toronto: Adam & Eve: First ones to ignore Apple Terms & Conditions.

On a classroom chalkboard: Dear Algebra, please stop asking us to find your x. She’s never coming back, and don’t ask y.

Inside a zoo: Those who throw objects/stones at the crocodile/snakes will be asked to retrieve them.

real value.

Between 31 and 35, a woman is like Spain: very hot, relaxed, and convinced of her own beauty.

Between 36 and 40, a woman is like Greece: gently aging but still a warm and desirable place to visit.

Between 41 and 50, a woman is like Great Britain: with a glorious and all conquering past.

Between 51 and 60, a woman is like Israel: has been through war, doesn’t make the same mistakes twice, takes care of business.

Between 61 and 70, a woman is like Canada: self-preserving, but open to meeting new people.

GEOGRAPHY OF A WOMAN

After 70, she becomes Tibet: wildly beautiful, with a mysterious past and the wisdom of the ages, an adventurous spirit and a thirst for spiritual knowledge.

Between 23 and 30, a woman is like Europe: well developed and open to trade, especially for someone of

GEOGRAPHY OF A MAN

Submitted by Hap Jordan Between 18 and 22, a woman is like Africa: half discovered, half wild, fertile and naturally beautiful.

Between 1 and 90, a man is like Iran: ruled by nuts.

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LAUGHING MATTERS

THINK BEFORE YOU TELL THAT JOKE

Submitted by Sue Gager An old blind cowboy wanders into an all-girl biker bar by mistake. He finds his way to a bar stool and orders a shot of Jack Daniels. After sitting there awhile, he yells to the bartender, “Hey, you wanna hear a blonde joke?”

The bar falls silent. In a deep, husky voice, the woman sitting next to him says, “Before you tell that joke, cowboy, I think it is only fair, given you are blind, that you should know four things: “One, the bartender is a blonde girl with a baseball bat. The bouncer is a blonde. I’m a 6-foot tall, 175-pound blonde with a black belt in karate. The lady on your other side is a blonde and is a professional wrestler. Now think about it seriously, do you still wanna tell that blonde joke?”

The blind cowboy thinks about it for a second, then shakes his head and mutters, “No, not if I’m gonna have to explain it four times.”

THE HAIRCUT

Submitted by Kevin Ray A teenage boy had just passed his driving test and asked his father when he could get a car. His father decided to make him a deal.

“You bring your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible and get your hair cut, then we’ll talk about a car.”

The boy agreed to it.

After about six weeks his father said, “Son, you’ve brought your

grades up and I’ve observed you studying your Bible, but I’m disappointed you haven’t had your hair cut.”

The boy countered, “You know, Dad, I’ve been thinking about that.

In the Bible, Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair and there’s even strong evidence that Jesus had long hair.”

Impressed but not amused, his dad replied, “Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?”

KIDS SHOULD HAVE KIDS BECAUSE

Submitted by Jennifer Baker You spend the first two years of their life teaching them to walk and talk. Then you spend the next 16 telling them to sit down and shut up.

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Grandchildren are God’s reward for not killing your children.

Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like clearing the driveway before it has stopped snowing.

There is only one pretty child in the world and every mother has one.

Mothers of teens know why animals eat their young.

I asked Mom if I was a gifted child and she said they certainly wouldn’t have paid for me.

Children are natural mimics, who act like their parents despite every effort to teach them good manners. ■

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19

Musical memories with Mom

the syllable “less” in the word “helpless” was shrieked at a decibel level that threatened to cause all the glasses in the cupboard to shatter.

For some reason, she often sang that one when I had friends over, which I found mortifying.

Dad worked 60 hours a week and Mom stayed busy caring for her five children. It was obvious she missed Dad a lot. Often when he got home from work, she would sidle up to him with a twinkle in her eye, and loudly sing, “I’m in the mood for love simply because you’re near

By Denise Thiery “Music has charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks or bend a knotted oak.”

– William Congreve

I’d

say that would depend on whether the music was good or bad. My father’s mellow baritone could soothe a savage breast.

Mom’s caterwauling could certainly soften rocks or bend a knotted oak, as well as cause the wallpaper to fall of the walls in strips, and coyotes in the distant woods to howl in unison. What mom lacked in musical talent, she made up for in enthusiasm and volume.

Their music reverberated through my youth; both his and hers. Dad was musically gifted. He often sang in the house. He taught himself to play several musical instruments. Sometimes he would invite several of his musically gifted friends over and they would gather in our living room and jam

20 | MAY 2022 |

until late into the evening.

His favorite genre was country music. When he heard his teenaged children playing the times’ current rock hits, he would bellow, “You call that music?” or “Loud is not the same as good!”

Dad passed away in 1977. When I hear some of his favorite tunes— such as Hank Williams’ 1950s hit, “Jambalaya”—waves of nostalgia and fresh grief sweep over me.

When he sang “Amazing Grace,” it would bring tears to the listener’s eyes.

Hearing one of my late mother’s favorite tunes also brings waves of nostalgia and grief, but it’s eased by laughter. She knew how painfully bad her singing was—she just didn’t care. Maybe we should all joyfully throw our tone-deaf voices to the sky like Mom did.

Mom’s favorite tune was “Misty”

by Ella Fitzgerald. When she reached the line, “Look at me, I’m as helpless as a kitten up a tree,”

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together under the apple tree by the creek in our yard and talk, their lit cigarettes flickering in the dark.

I inherited my lack of musical talent from my mother. When I was in middle school, all students were required to take choir. After the choir director heard my pathetic attempts to sing a tune, he said, “Well, I guess I’ll identify you as an alto, but it’s all right if you want to just mouth the words.”

In high school I was forced to participate when all the seniors sang at the graduation ceremony. I just mouthed the lyrics. My friend Mary, who was standing next to me on the bleachers, said, “I didn’t hear you singing anything.”

I replied, “Believe me, it’s for the best.”

Years later, when I was pregnant with my son, I read an article that

WHEN HE WAS A TODDLER, I TRIED SINGING TO HIM. HE COVERED HIS EARS AND CRIED, “MOMMY, NO! STOP!”

me,” which always prompted a grin from him and groans of embarrassment from us.

At the end of a busy day, as Mom cleared the dinner table, she would sing to Dad, “Don’t sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me.” Then the two of them would grab a couple of lawn chairs and sit

said exposing babies to music in the womb helped build brain function.

So, like my mom, I sang—loudly and badly—to my developing child.

I failed to recognize that he couldn’t escape my caterwauling for nine months.

When he was a toddler, I tried singing to him. He covered his ears and cried, “Mommy, no! Stop!” I hope his mom shrieking tone-deaf tunes will bring him happy memories of me and his childhood as my musical memories have to me. ■

Community Concerts announces next season lineup

E

ntering its 78th year, Community Concerts of the Grand Valley has announced the acts in its 2022-2023 season. The six-concert lineup features a potpourri of internationally acclaimed musicians, singers, dancers and theater groups live at the Avalon Theatre in downtown Grand Junction.

Here’s what’s in store next season:

The Everly Set Tuesday, November 15, 2022 • 7:30 p.m.

Divas 3 Thursday, October 13, 2022 • 7:30 p.m.

Sail On! Sunday, January 15, 2023 • 3 p.m.

Divas 3 consists of powerhouse Las Vegas vocalists performing your favorite chart-topping hits. Their three-part harmony arrangements joined by piano and tracks pays tribute to Cher, Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston and more.

Cherish the Ladies Friday, October 28, 2022 7:30 p.m.

One of America’s most heralded Irish music ensembles, Cherish the Ladies has won the hearts of audiences worldwide with their rousing blend of traditional music, captivating vocals and propulsive step dancing.

The Everly Set takes you back to 1957 when Phil and Don Everly first supercharged the vocal sound of rock ’n’ roll with their unique style of harmonies.

Lead singers Sean and Jack keep this great music alive with renditions of “Wake Up Little Susie,” “When Will I Be Loved?” and more.

Sail On brings a young look and authentic sound reminiscent of the original Beach Boys during the prime of their career. The group’s harmonies capture the sound of the iconic band and transport the audience to the beach for an evening of memories and fun!

Dan Miller Cowboy Review Thursday, February 2, 2023 • 7:30 p.m.

Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue celebrates 18 years of playing to audiences around the globe with their unique brand of music, humor, history and poetry.

Beginnings: The Chicago Tribute Band Tuesday, April 25, 2023 7:30 p.m.

The Beginnings is comprised of eight talented musicians who together comprise an ever-evolving universe of musicality that encompasses multi-instrumentalists and five lead vocalists. This depth of talent is focused on the band Chicago, whose song book spans more than 40 years, and includes five No. 1 albums and 20 Top 10 hits.

Congratulations to our 2021-2022 concert ticket winners!

Susan Carter won two tickets to Ted Vigil’s John Denver tribute.

Diana Schmalz holds her tickets to see country-pop trio Taylor Red.

NEW TICKET SALES START JUNE 14!

Season tickets start at $80.

Individual concert tickets (if available) are $35.

For existing patrons: Liked your seats? Renew your tickets before May 21.

Want better seats? You have from May 24 to June 11 to change them.

All tickets will be purchased through the Avalon Theatre Box Office from 12-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Watch previews of the acts at www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.org or call 970-243-1979 for more information. ■

Joyce Lambert scored two Yvonne Vance smiles because tickets to Sons of Serendip! she get to see The Diamonds.

[Not pictured] Warren Colarelli won tickets to Louis Prima, Jr.

Want to win tickets next year?

Joe Konzier won two tickets to see Jim Witter’s Crocodile Rockin’ Elton John tribute with his wife, Grace.

Pick up the BEACON every month and sign up for our email newsletter at www.Beacon SeniorNews.com

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21

To till or not to till

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your garden?

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s every serious gardener knows, healthy soils are essential for resilient gardens and bountiful plant growth. Along with sufficient sunlight and moisture, fertile, well-drained soil can make all the difference between thriving and hardy plants and those afflicted with disease and pests.

Compacted soils limit root growth and cause water to pool up or run off—neither of which allows it to reach the plant roots where it’s needed. Tilling the garden loosens up heavy clay soils, allowing for aeration and porosity for water to infiltrate.

However, tilling the soil also destroys beneficial bacteria by exposing them to UV rays, harms fun-

gal colonies because it breaks up their mycelium webs that transfer nutrients to plant roots, and causes organic matter to degrade quicker, which means plants lose out on valuable nutrients.

Rototilling is especially damaging because it pulverizes fungal colonies and earthworms, and destroys soil texture. Plus, clay particles are actually platelets, so rototilling creates clay flour that ends up settling more densely into more compacted soil than what we started with.

Whether or not you should till your garden is a highly debated topic, especially as we learn about integrating regenerative agriculture practices into our gardens.

In a first- or second-year garden,

WANT HEALTHY, HAPPY PLANTS? USE A GOOD FERTILIZER(S) Organic and naturally derived fertilizers supply both nutrients and microminerals for nutrient density in the food we eat. Here are some great options: • Fishmeal is a great source of nitrogen and provides phosphorus and potassium as well • Feathermeal, bloodmeal and cottonseed meal are nitrogen rich and support vegetative growth and leaf production (think lettuces and herbs) • Bonemeal and bat guano supply

phosphorus to aid in blossom and fruit development (think tomatoes, cucumbers and edible flowers) • Greensand, kelp and granite dust are great sources of potassium to aid in root crop production (think carrots and garlic) while also being rich in trace minerals • Wood ash is also rich in potassium but is very alkaline. Adding too much can restrict mineral and nutrient availability to plants so be very careful when using it.

GROW WILD I’m a huge fan of double digging.

This technique involves using a shovel to remove the top soil, exposing the subsoil beneath, breaking it up, adding organic matter then replacing the top soil. Double digging creates pore space and provides the opportunity for nutrients to sink down to plants’ root zone while dislodging weeds and their root systems.

DOUBLE DIGGING

Tilling the soil loosens up heavy clay soils, allowing for aeration and porosity for water to infiltrate, but may destroy beneficial bacteria by UV ray exposure.

I prefer using shovels for gardening because they’re much less disruptive to soil colonies and texture than tilling. While double digging a bed requires some muscle, it’s the fastest way to good soil and something you’ll only have to do once.

Start at one edge of the garden and dig up one shovelful of soil and set it on the outer edge of the garden. Then dig up a second shovelful in the same spot and pile that soil up as well.

Move one shovel width to the right and do the next double dig

until you’ve formed a trench along the edge of the garden. Come back with a pitchfork or stabbing rod and break up the subsoil inside the trench, then add nutrient-rich compost and fertilizers where the plant roots will eventually be.

Once nutrients are in the trench, work backwards by moving back one shovelhead width and start digging the next trench. This step is much easier as each double-shovel dig involves moving soil from the new trench into the previous one.

Repeat the process until you’ve dug your last trench and reached the other end of your garden bed.

Walk over to the soil on the edge of your first trench and use it to fill in the last trench. In the end, you will have a porous soil structure with nutrients at the plant root zone, which will potentially provide you with years of successful gardening ahead.

check, while their manure and decomposing bodies bring nutrients to plants as well.

In a no-till approach, the first step is to lay down compost or aged manure and natural fertilizers over the garden’s surface. Use a broadfork, pitchfork or a probing rod to puncture the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches. Rock back to open up the soil, allowing for crop nutrients to trickle down to the subsoil. This action loosens our clay soils and provides aeration for water channels without tearing up fungal webs or earthworms, and protecting the beneficial bacteria from harmful UV rays. ■

WATCH THE VIDEO

NO-TILL SOIL AERATION Switching to a no-till method in successive seasons will increase the health of the soil and plants.

Observing earthworms, pill bugs and earwigs in the soil is a good measure of soil health. They feed on microbes and other smaller critters to keep their populations in

ROCK ON SOIL PREP

For more advice on gauging soil health and no-till gardening, watch Bryan’s video demonstration at www.BeaconSenior News.com

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED No-till soil aeration loosens our clay soils and provides aeration for water channels without tearing up fungal webs or earthworms.

755 26 Road | Grand Junction 970.242.7766 www.bookcliffgardens.com Senior Wednesdays = 10% Off!

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

HAPPINESS COMES IN MANY FORMS, flowers included !

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | HOME & GARDEN |

23

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

By Jan Weeks

W

hen Becki Siemers left her job at La Villa Grande Care Center in Grand Junction for another position at Balfour Retirement Community in Louisville, Colorado, she didn’t dream she would soon be in the midst of one of the biggest disasters in the state. The licensed nursing home administrator had worked in the Grand Junction area for over 28 years, and in April 2021, she moved to the facility on the Front Range.

On December 30, 2021, the Marshall Fire swept across 6,000 acres, fueled by drought-dried vegetation and 100 mile-per-hour wind gusts.

The Balfour community staff went into emergency mode, relocating residents as they watched the fire race closer. Assisted living residents were evacuated to a facility in Boulder, and those requiring skilled nursing care went to a facility in Arvada.

Caregivers caring for

caregivers

LaVilla Grande Care Center helped Boulderarea seniors and staff in wake of Marshall Fire Fortunately, the Balfour building was spared, and residents and staff were able to return the next day.

Both staff and residents were mentally and physically exhausted, and one employee, and several family members of others, lost everything to the fire.

La Villa Grande Administrator Lisa Smith and her staff reached out immediately, sending good wishes and prayers. Then, on March 14, 2022, a representative from La Villa Grande arrived in Louisville

From our side of the mountain to yours…

! h c u m y er v ou y k n a Th La Villa Grande Care Center Staff, Residents and Families!

On December 30, 2021, the residents at Balfour Retirement Community in Louisville, Colorado had to be quickly evacuated due to a rapidly spreading wildfire in their backyard. La Villa Grande Care Center in Grand Junction reached out immediately but were too far away to offer anything more than supportive thoughts and kind words.

Our luck changed in March, 2022 when the La Villa Grande staff delivered a treasure chest with daily surprises for our residents and staff, including gift cards for an employee that lost her home in the fire.

24 | MAY 2022 |

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ASSISTED LIVING

SKILLED NURSING

303-926-1000

1855 Plaza Drive | Louisville, CO 80027 balfourcare.com

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

to make a surprise delivery for the staff and residents. A large treasure chest contained an envelope with gifts for each day of the week.

On Monday, residents received 100 Crumbl Cookies; on Tuesday, 200 tacos arrived from Taco Bell; Wednesday brought bagels, cream cheese, and coffee; Thursday’s St.

up everyone, as did Mardi Gras chocolate gold coins and colorful beads.

“The week was incredible and so healing for my Louisville staff that walked through fire for their residents,” said Siemers. “All health care workers have had a difficult past two years and are weary but the show of kindness from one weary team to another was far more healing than anything I have seen during this pandemic.” ■

THE SHOW OF KINDNESS FROM ONE WEARY TEAM TO ANOTHER WAS FAR MORE HEALING THAN ANYTHING I HAVE SEEN DURING THIS PANDEMIC. Patrick’s Day full sheet cake was a sweet celebration; and Friday’s treat was Chinese food for the night shift crew.

A special letter and $500 worth of gift cards from Target, Visa and more helped a dishwasher who lost everything in the fire. Cards and letters of encouragement from the La Villa Grande residents cheered

A care package from La Villa Grande Care Center containing $500 worth of gift cards helped a dishwasher who lost everything in the Marshall Fire.

A cake delivered to Balfour Retirement Community by La Villa Grande staff.

y p p Ha

National Skilled Nursing Care Week To all of our dedicated Physicians, Nurses, Certified Nurse Assistants, Dietary Services staff, Activities professionals, Social Services staff, Agility Therapy professionals, Environmental Services Staff, and Administration professionals…

Thank you all for your extraordinary work over the past year!

SKILLED NURSING • REHABILITATION • RESPITE & LONG TERM

Call Us Today!

970-245-1211 2501 Little Bookcliff Drive

|

Grand Junction, CO

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25

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Camping with grandkids?

A child’s survival kit is a must MAY 20

TO

22

DOWNTOWN GRAND JUNCTION FRI, SAT & SUN MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE & MUSIC FESTIVAL HEADLINING BANDS

MARC BROUSSARD • SPOSE

THE YAWPERS • FUNK & GONZO THE PATIENT ZEROS • OPERA HOUSE ARSON AND MORE!

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By Jan Weeks

E

xploring the great outdoors is one of the seasonal joys of Western Colorado, especially with children and grandchildren. Camping, hiking and sharing wildlife lore make hearts soar. Then the heart-stopping moment when you realize the young one has slipped away, and a panicky search begins.

The following simple items can turn potential tragedy into a jubilant reunion when stuffed into a day pack or fanny pack.

• A metal lifeguard whistle is loud and carries through forests and canyons better than a child’s voice. Buy one at any sporting goods store. Avoid plastic ones, as they’re easily broken. A lanyard to hang it around a child’s neck is a good idea, too, as it can’t get lost as easily.

• A small flashlight can be used to signal the child’s position after dark.

• A garbage bag becomes a makeshift poncho when a hole is cut in the bottom to poke a head through. If inclement weather rolls in or night falls, the child can stay dry, and the plastic cuts the wind. Or find an easily compressed poncho in any outdoor department.

26 | MAY 2022 |

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• A protein bar provides nutrition and blunts hunger pangs. It also comforts the child while they wait to be found.

• Let the child choose a snapshot of family to take along. Its familiarity provides comfort and reminds him or her that there are people looking for him.

• A small bottle of water will keep him or her hydrated.

• A small toy or memento of the child’s choosing adds familiarity in a scary environment.

Of course, just wearing the pack won’t prevent heartbreak. Adults must teach children how to use it.

First and foremost, keep the pack with you until you’re camping or hiking, so the child can’t forget it or lose it at home. Emphasize that the survival kit is to be used only for an emergency, not for playing or just having a snack. Show her how to put the poncho on. And most importantly, teach him to sit down immediately and begin blowing the whistle the minute he’s out of sight of adults, and keep blowing it every few minutes, especially after dark.

A quick training session with these easily available items can keep outdoor exploration safe and fun, and ensure a happy ending. ■

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Retirement brings with it extra time How to make the best of it

By Ashley Pontius

R

etirees aren’t always certain what it is they long to do with time, but one day they stop working and find they have a barrelful of it.

“People often are so focused on making sure they are financially ready to retire that they forget to plan for what they want to do in retirement,” said Patti Hart, co-author with her husband, Milledge, of “The Resolutionist: Welcome to the Anti-Retirement Movement.”

And they may have more time to fill than they realize. Since life expectancy has increased, retirements that last 20 or 30 years aren’t that unusual.

“You have to start thinking what will you do with your time? How do you envision your days playing out?” said Patti.

For the Harts, the answers to those questions involve the “anti-retirement movement,” where retirement is more than endless hours of golf.

“We did leave our careers, but we would never call ourselves retired,” said Milledge. “We are busier now than we’ve ever been. The difference is that we are busy doing what brings us joy rather than what advances our careers.”

But the transition isn’t always easy, which is why the Harts recommend finding efficient ways to manage that extra time that retirement brings.

“For most people, it is just setting goals and priorities, then making sure you plan for how you are going to accomplish them,” said Patti.

To do that, the Harts suggest putting yourself into the mindset you had in your working years doing things such as: Using a calendar. People in a corporate setting rely on calendars

to manage their obligations and retirees can as well. Checking a calendar each day lets people realize they may be overcommitted, or they may need to find new activities if too many empty hours are going to waste.

Make a to-do list. This ensures nothing gets forgotten. Just be flexible, because the list is a tool to keep you on track, not a ball and chain to imprison you.

“If you’d rather do something else today, feel free to move items to another time or just skip them altogether,” Milledge said.

Treat everything like a business appointment. The calendar and the to-do list can be filled with things that may now be priority.

“You can pencil in 30 minutes for meditation or an hour to begin reading a novel,” Patti said. “These are your preferred ‘appointments’ now and are equal in importance to board meetings or conference calls.”

Adapt your system as your needs change. Some people begin retirement doing all the things they had been putting off, such as traveling or fishing more.

“But that first burst of activity usually begins to wear, and you realize you want more from this stage of life,” Milledge said. “At that point it makes sense to reevaluate your resources and goals. Be aware of how you feel about certain activities and be ready to drop some and pick up others as your time and interests change.”

In the same way that making good financial investments provides you with additional capital, investing your time wisely provides you with more time to do things you really want to do.

“And that will make your life so much better,” said Patti. ■

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 |

27

TRAVEL

Explore natural beauty and cultural wonders at United States UNESCO World Heritage Sites Sunset at Everglades National Park.

H

ave you explored Everglades National Park in Florida, seeking glimpses of crocodiles, manatees and other wildlife?

Perhaps you’ve visited Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where important chapters in the birth of the United States were written.

Both of these are among 24 places throughout the country honored as World Heritage Sites by the United Na-

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK 305-242-7700, www.nps.gov/ever It’s no surprise that Everglades National Park is on the list. It’s the largest tropical wetlands and forest wilderness in the country, the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere and the most significant breeding ground for tropical wading birds in North America. It’s also home to 36 threatened or protected species.

By Victor Block tions Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

UNESCO designates natural destinations and cultural attractions that are “of outstanding universal value” and meet one or more of 10 criteria, including exhibiting “exceptional natural beauty,” providing habitats for threatened spe-

CARLSBAD CAVERNS 575-785-2232, www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm Bats are the primary residents of Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, which UNESCO recognizes for both its beauty and ongoing geologic activity. This site has 100 limestone caves that form an other-worldly underground labyrinth. The hundreds of thousands of bats that live in the caverns emerge around sunset to seek their evening meal.

WATERTON-GLACIER INTERNATIONAL PEACE PARK 406-888-7800, www.nps.gov/glac The setting is very different in the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, which straddles the Rocky Mountains along the U.S.-Canada border. It’s an area of soaring snow-capped mountains, high altitude lakes and rushing glacier-fed rivers.

Cedar hemlock forests and alpine tundra provide habitats for over 300 species of animals. The park serves as a symbol of goodwill between Canada and the U.S.

28 | TRAVEL | MAY 2022 |

cies, or association with events of “universal significance.” Other destinations on the list include East Africa’s Serengeti region, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the Egyptian pyramids, and great castles and cathedrals throughout Europe.

UNESCO sites in the United States are equally varied. They range from alluring parks to an ancient pueblo and from architectural treasures to cultural icons.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

INDEPENDENCE HALL 215-965-2305, www.nps.gov/inde A much smaller but no less significant architectural treasure greets those who visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Completed in 1753 to house Pennsylvania’s Colonial Assembly, it is where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Second Continental Congress met and the Constitutional Convention convened after the American Revolution.

In 1915, the formal announcement was made of formation of the League to Enforce Peace. That later led to establishment of the League of Nations and eventually the United Nations.

TRAVEL

TAOS PUEBLO 575-758-1028, www.taospueblo.com Several very different architectural treasures share space on the UNESCO list.

New Mexico also lays claim to the Taos Pueblo, a multi-storied, reddish-brown adobe structure estimated to have been built between 1000 and 1450 AD by Tiwa Native Americans.

Tribal people still live in the area. The impressive north side edifice, the largest multi-storied pueblo structure still existing, is one of the most photographed and painted buildings in North America.

MONTICELLO & UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA 434-984-9800, www.monticello.org The vibe is very different in Virginia, where the home and “Academical Village” designed by Thomas Jefferson are among his many achievements.

That says a lot about the man who authored the Declaration of Independence, served as third President of the United States and won plaudits as statesman, diplomat, Founding Father and other public service capacities.

He also was a talented architect.

Design features for his Monticello plantation house, and the complex that became the heart of the University of Virginia, attest to his success in melding traditions of European architecture with tenets of the self-governance that America represented.

Jefferson’s academical core continues to serve as the historic and ceremonial center of his university. It’s based on his vision of a holistic learning environment that extends beyond the classrooms to an open lawn lined by trees and enclosed by interconnected buildings. UNESCO explains that both accomplishments serve as tangible evidence of “the ideas and ideals of Thomas Jefferson.”

THE POVERTY POINT STATE HISTORIC SITE 318-926-5492, www.povertypoint.us In contrast, some UNESCO World Heritage Sites are nothing more than earthen mounds, but what they may lack in architectural splendor, they make up in terms of the story of humankind. The Poverty Point State Historic Site in Louisiana contains earthen ridges and mounds surrounding a central plaza. They were made by indigenous people between 1700 and 1100 BC. According to archaeologists, the site may have served as a settlement, trading center and/or a religious ceremonial place. UNESCO notes that the Poverty Point earthworks “bear exceptional testimony to a vanished cultural tradition, the Poverty Point Culture.” The earthen construction “was not surpassed for at least 2,000 years.”

From earth mounds and a university lawn to an ancient pueblo and more modern building that played a leading role in the birth of the United States, UNESCO sites have varied and very intriguing stories to tell.

To see complete list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, visit www. whc.unesco.org or call the UNESCO New York Liaison Office at 917-8109030. ■

Discover a tranquil neighborhood all your own.

Carefree retirement living.

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

(970) 434-2111 • TheCottagesGJ.org

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

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | TRAVEL |

29

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

The

Seniors and Retirees have Different Real Estate Needs

BRITISH Beat

We help buyers and sellers transition into their next home.

Interesting facts about the bands during the British Invasion

By Bobby Dee

Leslie Gore

Senior Real Estate Specialist

(970) 275-3195

lesliegorerealtor@gmail.com

Michelle Klippert

Senior Real Estate Specialist

(970) 275-3016

michelleklippertrealtor@gmail.com

The

Real Estate Store

970-249-7653 500 E. Main St. Montrose, CO 81401 www.the-res.com

B e i n s p i r e d , f u l f i l l e d , h a p p y, c o n n e c t e d . . .

B ec o m e a h o p e w e s t vo l u n t e e r !

HopeWest Volunteer Fair Thursday, May 12 • 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Ferris Care Center, Room 102 3090 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction

Whatever you love to do, we are sure to find a spot for you! Stop by to discover all the volunteer opportunities at HopeWest.

HopeWestCO.org • (970) 257-2376

30 | MAY 2022 |

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I

n music history, February 1964 brought about a major change when The Beatles first set foot on American soil and made their historical appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show, for which they were paid a tidy sum of $3,500. What followed was an influx of British bands on our shores, known still today as the British Invasion.

These are only a few of the many British bands that changed the course of music back in the 1960s, and put an abrupt end to the careers of many successful American singers and groups. Here are some interesting lesser-known facts about many of the popular British singing groups of that era.

The Dave Clark Five, famous for the songs “Glad All Over,” “Bits and Pieces” and “Do You Love Me?” was the second British Invasion band to appear on the Ed Sullivan Show, less than a month after the Beatles.

They went on to appear 17 more times on the show. Sadly, Mike Smith, the band’s lead vocalist and keyboardist, passed away only 11 days prior to the band’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2008. Coincidentally, at the induc-

tion ceremony, it was announced that their arrival for the event was exactly 44 years to the day they first appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show on March 8, 1964.

The Animals, whose style was considered more blues and folk rock, hit it big in the U.S. with their number-one rendition of “House of the Rising Sun.” The first-known recording of the song, however, dates back to 1933, when it was called “Risin’ Sun Blues,” sung by Clarence Ashley and Gwen Foster.

In 1938, it was recorded as “Risin’ Sun” by Roy Acuff, and in 1961, Bruce Springsteen recorded it on his debut album. However, the most popular version by far, was by The Animals. In fact, it was voted Britain’s fourth favorite No. 1 song of all time.

Herman’s Hermits (“I’m Into Something Good,” “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter,” “I’m Henry the Eighth”) fans often wondered how the band came up with its name considering that no one in the band was named Herman. The story is that the band’s lead singer, charismatic 15-year-old Peter Noone, had been told he

BEACON SENIOR NEWS resembled Sherman, the adopted son of the cartoon character, Mr. Peabody, who gained fame on “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle.” Peter Noone decided to drop the “S” on Sherman and shorten it to Herman. The band originally was called Herman & the Hermits, but that name was also shortened.

They subsequently also turned down The Yardbirds and Manfred Mann. Ironically, it was George Harrison of The Beatles who recommended that British Decca take a serious look at The Rolling Stones.

This time, Decca took the advice and signed the Stones shortly afterwards.

The band Gerry and the Pacemakers (“Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying,” “Ferry Cross the Mersey,” “I Like It”) was originally called Gerry Marsden and the Mars Bars, but the Mars Company issued a complaint and the band changed its name.

British Decca Records probably experienced more regrets than any other record company of that era.

First of all, they refused to release the record “Tell Laura I Love Her”

by Ray Peterson because they thought it was too depressing, and even destroyed thousands of already-pressed copies of it. The song later went on to sell over seven million copies on the RCA label.

Then, in 1962, British Decca turned down the opportunity to sign The Beatles because they thought guitar bands were on their way out.

Manfred Mann (“Doo Wah Diddy,” “Mighty Quinn”) was named after the band’s keyboardist. Mann went on to form Manfred Mann’s Earth Band in the 1970s and had a chart-topping hit with a cover of Bruce Springsteen’s song “Blinded By the Light.” The deuce in the original lyrics of Springsteen’s song referenced a car—as in a hot-rod deuce coupe. Before Mann recorded the song, however, he changed the lyric to “revved up like a deuce.” Thus was

PAUL McCARTNEY OF THE BEATLES PENNED SEVERAL SONGS FOR PETER AND GORDON, INCLUDING FOUR OF THEIR BIGGEST HITS. born one of the most misunderstood and misquoted lyrics of all time.

Because of the way it sounded on the recording, the word “deuce” is frequently misinterpreted as “douche”—a ladies’ feminine-hygiene product. Another common misinterpretation: “Blinded by the light, wrapped up like a goose that’s run over in the night.”

Thanks to the Internet, song lyrics are no longer the mystery they used to be.

Peter and Gordon, a duo formed

by Peter Asher and Gordon Waller, also hit it big in the U.S. during the early 1960s. Peter’s sister, Jane Asher, was seriously dating Paul McCartney of The Beatles at the time, so McCartney penned several songs for Peter and Gordon, including four of their biggest hits: “A World Without Love,” “Nobody I Know,” “I Don’t Want to See You Again” and “Woman.” Although McCartney wrote the songs alone, they were credited to the songwriting team of Lennon and McCartney.

On the song, “Woman,” however, McCartney wanted to know if he still could produce a hit song if he used a pseudonym, so he used the

names A. Smith and then Bernard Webb. It reached the Top 20 on both Billboard and Cash Box. Peter Asher later went on to manage and produce such singers as Linda Rondstadt and James Taylor.

The Zombies (“She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No,” “Time of the Season”) were originally called The Mustangs, but Paul Arnold, the band’s original bass guitarist, decided to choose a name that was so original, no one else would have it.

He came up with the word “zombie” even though he and the other members only vaguely knew the meaning of the word—“Something about Haitian dead people,” one of them said. The name stuck and the band went on to chart several times on the Top 10. Although Arnold made his mark by naming the band, he quit shortly thereafter to become a physician. ■

April showers bring May flowers...

AND A Little Help’s

SPRING SERVICE SATURDAY! EVENT As a past participant in a Service Saturday! event, you know the importance of helping older adults thrive in their own homes by volunteering on a Service Saturday! This special event helps with a few seasonal tasks that bring all generations together.

So, gather your crew and join us again to provide a little help with springtime tasks on a Service Saturday! event.

To register or for more information on our June 4th Service Saturday Spring Event visit www.alittlehelp.org/servicesaturdays

If you would like to become A LITTLE HELP Volunteer visit our website at www. ALittleHelp.org or call 970-404-1923 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 |

31

FAITH

COME GROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! We are…

Family-oriented Inspirational Relational Sacred space The place for you

United Methodist Church

Jesus understands loneliness

By Jon Bloom

9:00 am Contemporary Praise Service 11:00 am Traditional Service with Choir

“He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” (Isaiah 53:3)

S

ometimes we feel alone in the Live stream services at fumcgj.org world. Jesus understands this First United Methodist Church | 5th St. & White Ave. (downtown) | 970-242-4850 | www.fumcgj.org feeling. In a very human sense, he was alone.

Service Times Service Times Imagine what living in this world Celebration was like for Jesus. He was without Celebration Service Service sin (Hebrews 4:15). That might am Sunday 10:00 am10:00 Sunday sound like a pleasant problem to Family Night Family Night deal with. I don’t think so. I think it pm Wednesday 6:30 pm 6:30 Wednesday was tormenting. Peter described sinful Lot’s experience in Sodom as being tormented day after day by the “lawless deeds that he saw and 515 S. Dr. Hillcrestheard” Dr. (2 Peter 2:8). How much 515 S. Hillcrest Montrose, Montrose, CO 81401CO 81401 worse was it for sinless Jesus living Where Passion for God and 970-249-4319 here Passion for God and 970-249-4319 in a world of sin? for People meet…. mpassion Compassion for People meet….

Imagine what his childhood was like. He would have been odd, sticking out morally like a sore thumb, never quite fitting in with any S Townsend Ave group, even his own family.

BAPTIST CHURCH Even his loving parents wouldn’t E Niagara Rd have fully understood him. Nor Turning Montrose Around would they have been able to RosemontBaptist.org protect him from others’ stinging FAMILY FELLOWSHIP COMMUNITY remarks and maybe cruel mocking over his unsullied strangeness.

Sunday Bible Study (all ages) 9:30 9:15 am 1598 E Niagara Rd I wonder how much came from Worship Service 10:45 am Montrose, CO 81401 Worship Service his siblings? His brothers and sisters Office: 970.249.4887 (Matthew 13:55-56) would have grown increasingly self-conscious around him, aware of their own sinful, self-obsessed motives and behavior, while noting that Jesus didn’t seem to exhibit any himself.

Sunday study: 9:00 a.m.

What resentments accrued? All was Sunday worship: 10:15 a.m. not harmonious because Jesus’s own brothers didn’t believe in him (John 7:5), possibly until after his First Baptist Church resurrection (Acts 1:14). of Grand Junction Jesus was a sinless person living with sinful parents, sinful siblings, 720 Grand Avenue sinful extended relatives and sinful 970-242-5645 neighbors. No one on earth could identify with him. No human being Visit our website: fbcgj.org could put an arm around him as he

Rosemont

Experience God's loveloveinina atraditional setting.

Experience God's traditional setting.

Experience God's love in a traditional setting.

32 | FAITH | MAY 2022 |

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IMAGINE WHAT LIVING IN THIS WORLD WAS LIKE FOR JESUS. sat in tears and say, “I know exactly what you’re going through.” His sorrow and grief (Isaiah 53:3) began way before Gethsemane.

But Jesus’s loneliness reached its apex the moment he became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21) on the cross and was “forsaken” by his Father (Matthew 27:46). First he was estranged by sinlessness and then from being sin. Jesus knew supreme rejection and loneliness.

Which makes him perfectly suited to understand yours. He is a high priest who can sympathize with this weakness (Hebrews 4:15).

But Jesus doesn’t just understand your loneliness; he’s destroying it. Because he died on your behalf, you are no longer truly a stranger or alien, but you are a fellow citizen with the saints and a member of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19). Because Jesus was alienated from God and man, you will enjoy the full family fellowship of God and all of his redeemed saints forever.

Child of God, your loneliness is passing away. The day is nearing when you will know as you have been fully known (1 Corinthians 13:12). And the fading loneliness you still feel Jesus understands.

So “with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that [you] may receive mercy and find grace to help” with every lonely need (Hebrews 4:16).

Jon Bloom (@Bloom_Jon) serves as teacher and co-founder of Desiring God (desiringGod.org).

He is author of three books, “Not

by Sight,” “Things Not Seen,” and “Don’t Follow Your Heart.” He and his wife have five children and make their home in the Twin Cities. ■

Modern-day couponing

Shopping apps are a smarter and faster way to save

G

rowing up, my mom and grandma would clip and sort coupons. They would even go together on shopping trips to stock up on items that had purchase limits for the sales. Sometimes, they would use the power of the double coupon combined with a good sale and pay pennies for something that would have otherwise cost several dollars.

We are experiencing a drastic increase in inflation, similar to what the country experienced in the late ’70s and early ’80s, and the cost of everything is rising quickly. Unlike those days, the printed coupon and grocery store circulars aren’t as ubiquitous. But, there are still great deals to be had.

In the old days, clipping coupons was very time intensive. Typically, you had to subscribe to the Sunday and Wednesday newspapers, and carefully sort your junk mail to ensure a valuable coupon didn’t accidentally make it into the trash.

You also had to read the circulars to see what items were significantly marked down that week.

However, it paid off big time when our family finances were beyond tight. My mom would come home with armloads of groceries and we never went hungry. In fact, we never even went without ice cream or good cereal.

Thanks to technology, shopping for deals is easier than ever. Every major store offers an app. Restaurants, retail stores, gas stations and hotels all provide portals to better deals than what you would pay by simply walking in the door. Here are some of my favorite ways to use shopping apps to make shopping easier and less expensive.

Sign up for loyalty programs.

Before you begin shopping for the best price, take the time to set up an account with every place you plan on shopping. This can take some time, but it will be worth it because many gas stations, restaurants and retailers have special app-only offers that you can only see if you are logged in.

This can feel overwhelming because it means you have to create a new password for each app. To make this easier, use a basic format with a simple prefix and use the business name for the rest and add a special character somewhere in the mix. Example: MyPw!Walmart.

Opt out of and turn off alerts.

Most apps have a checkbox asking if you’d like to receive alerts about deals. You don’t. Trust me.

the app at Walmart or McDonald’s, it will use your location to ensure that the price and deals for that exact location are displayed.

Use apps instead of your phone number. Many stores allow you to use your phone number at checkout to ensure you receive all general loyalty deals, but many businesses are adding deals to the app that will only apply if you scan your loyalty barcode via the app.

Fuel is almost always cheaper with apps. City Market, Walmart, Shell, Exxon and Sinclair are just a few of the places where you can get as much as 10 cents off each gallon of gas if you enter your loyalty info before filling the tank.

Never waste time looking for something in the store. In addition to current sales, inventory and prices, most major retailers also display where the item is located in the store. This can be extremely helpful when you make a trip to the hardware store for everything you need to fix a major leak in your

Set security to allow location services while using the app. This may seem intrusive, but it’s in your best interest. When you are using

TALKING DIGITAL roof-mounted swamp cooler or you have lost track of the four places that Walmart keeps flashlights.

Use your phone’s search to locate apps. Once you download all these apps, it can be a pain to keep track of where they are located on your smartphone. Both Apple and Android phones have a search tool that allows you to type in the first few letters of the store name to reveal the app icon. You can also use “Hey Siri” or “OK Google” to open the app with your voice.

What about privacy? The most common concern that I hear from people about using shopping apps is that they don’t want the store to know what they buy. While this is even more true if you are using a loyalty card, if you have ever returned something to Walmart, Home Depot, Best Buy or most other retailers, they can look up your receipt by using the credit card number you purchased the item with. That means the store knows what you bought, when you bought it, what else you purchased and how much you paid. All loyalty programs are used by stores to track data. They use that data to set prices, arrange their stores, make inventory decisions and lure you back to buy more. ■

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

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

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33

MONEY & SCAMS INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

SCAM ALERT! If my kids read this, they may take away my internet passwords

By Patricia Finn

I

love the internet. It’s wonderful to be so easily connected to people everywhere. We are just a click away from housewives in Denmark, bankers in London and terrorists in Nigeria. We truly have access to a global marketplace.

Coronavirus restrictions gave me time to become internet savvy.

Well, sort of savvy. Definitely more savvy than I was when I almost fell for these crazy scams.

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REAL ESTATE SCAM I was planning to move back to Florida to be close to my kids and grandkids. I looked online for a house to rent and found one. It was my dream house—small but stylish. It was on the bay, in a good neighborhood, and the price was so right.

I communicated for months online with the owners—a missionary couple in Africa. I even had a friend in Florida visit the address to make sure the outside was as it appeared in the photos. I was in love.

I was ready to move forward until

the owners told me to send a deposit via Western Union to an African address (a red flag!). Fortunately, I was stopped in time by family and friends. In fact, one of my friends found the real owners, who had

MY SON ASKED, “HOW COULD YOU HAVE BELIEVED A WORD OF THIS?” rented out the house six months earlier at twice the price. They had advertised it on the internet, which is how the scammers got the photos!

I was so happy and so excited and then so disappointed. When I shared the email correspondence with my son, he asked, “How could you have believed a word of this?”

“Well, I was suspicious when they said a cousin was going to use the house for a few weeks because they had told me that it was unfurnished,” I replied.

I was lucky that I learned my

MONEY & SCAMS lesson without emptying my bank account. Others aren’t so fortunate.

CHECK SCAMS After that experience, I learned that I’m the only person I can trust.

Here’s another scam I didn’t fall for, but one that was equally scary.

I was looking through old emails for a poem and I came across an email with the subject, “Why the Big Silent?”

In English, we say, “Why haven’t I heard from you?” I thought to myself, “the big silent”? Who talks like that?

I’ll tell you who—the same people who sent me a $2,000 check

priority mail for a $200 copper coffee set I had posted for sale on the internet.

From the beginning, I thought the buyer was a little odd because each time I sent an email, I received a response instantly—like someone was at the computer 24/7.

Imagine my surprise when I opened the envelope and saw my generous tip. The told me to deposit the check and send them $500.

“Why are they sending me so much money?” I thought.

With trembling hands, I tore up the check and never answered emails asking awkwardly phrased questions again. ■

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35

BEACON GUIDE FEATURE

Peace among the plants

See what’s blooming at Ute Indian Museum’s ethnobotany garden

By Deborah Lazear

T

he Ute Indian Museum’s ethnobotany garden is a relaxing and quiet place where visitors can follow paths with interpretive signs and learn how native plants were used by the Utes. This peaceful setting is also ideal for visitors to reflect on the museum’s exhibits and ponder the lives of the Utes who traveled to this region annually.

The museum, located at 17253 Chipeta Road in Montrose, is situated on acreage that was once part of Chief Ouray’s homestead. His wife, Chipeta, is buried there. The property has gravel paths, areas of shade and sun, picnic areas and seating encircling a peace pole and large boulders.

Director CJ Brafford said that 90 percent of the what is available at the museum, including the ethnobotany garden, wouldn’t exist without its hardworking volunteers.

When Lead Garden Volunteer Mary Menz began working at the museum, she found the existing quarter-acre of garden space was overrun with cultivars and weeds.

In 2017, she and a few other museum volunteers dreamed of transforming the space into an ethnobotany garden.

“Ethnobotany is the science of

how people use native plants, which were so important to the Utes,” said Menz, 59. “We wanted the garden to be restored and contain only native plants that were traditionally used by the Utes.”

In addition to caring for the area, garden volunteers help with tours and kid’s camps, perform clerical work and maintenance, make posters and greet visitors. Docents provide more information about the healing properties of the native plants and non-native weeds.

“It’s a great way to support something important for the community, meet people from all over and do something useful,” said Ken

Gleeson, a 13-year museum volunteer.

According to Menz, the museum has many new features, including a boardwalk down to the river, where people can observe the plants in the marsh. Visitors can also attend a variety of presentations, films and exhibits that change periodically.

On May 28, the museum hosts a day-long community celebration with an ethnobotany garden tour, fry bread and food trucks, silent auction, petroglyph carving and activities for kids, and more. The event starts with the unveiling of the new Naturescape playground at 10 a.m. and wraps up at 3 p.m.

following a presentation by artist Gregg Deal.

Regular museum hours are 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the Ute Indian Museum or to volunteer, call 970-249-3098. ■

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970-243-8829

Safer spaces for aging in place

By Terri Benson

S

afeSpace Builders recently completed the extensive approval process for Medicaid. Now they’re “ramping” up to help more seniors remain in their homes with thoughtful designs that allow for freedom, safety and comfort.

Lori Siegesmund started Safe Space Builders last summer to fill this need in the community.

SafeSpace helps seniors, disabled persons and those recovering from surgery or injury stay mobile at home with universally designed ramps, grab bars, no-barrier showers, straight stair lifts, vertical platform lifts and home modifications to accommodate wheelchairs and other equipment.

Staff take into account the user’s preferences, mobility, body size, reach and strength to enhance the livability of the space for everyone.

“We have consideration for everyone who touches a room,” said SafeSpace Home Accessibility Specialist Shelley Clennin. “If a wheelchair user and an able-bodied person want to use the microwave, we’re going to position the microwave in a location that accommodates both needs.”

SafeSpace receives referrals from physicians, occupational therapists and discharge personnel to help tailor custom plans for clients while factoring in cost savings and a home’s resale value once home modifications are completed.

“It’s not just about the accessibility, it’s about the big investment.

We think 10 steps ahead,” said Clennin. “Say a woman gets diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. An order comes in [from an occupational therapist] for a curbed shower. If I was to build her this beautiful tile shower, then in two years she’s in a wheelchair, what have I done for her? She’s in the same situation

“THEY’RE PROFESSIONAL AND FRIENDLY, AND GO THE EXTRA MILE TO GET IT JUST RIGHT. THEY SPEND EXTRA TIME WITH CLIENTS TO GET THEM WHAT THEY NEED.” she was in before she met me, except that she has a pretty and expensive shower she can’t use.”

Wendy Genkov, housing rehabilitation program manager for Housing Resources of Western Colorado, attested to SafeSpace’s knowledgeable staff.

“They’re professional and friendly and go the extra mile to get it just right. They spend extra time with the clients to get them what they need,” Genkov said.

A division of 579 Construction, SafeSpace does more than what you’d expect from a home accessibility company. For Karen Jarnagin, workers installed new kitchen flooring, replaced the roof, painted the exterior and more.

“Shelley was so kind and patient when she worked with Mom on her bathroom project to ensure the grab bars were at just the right height,” Karen’s daughter, Samantha, said. “The project is going great, and it’s getting done very fast. They stay with their client every step of the way.”

Clennin and her staff focus on how construction can help the whole family.

“What I see is how we can combine construction with clinical needs to where the whole family universally benefits,” said Clennin.

Financing options are available.

For a free assessment and estimate, call SafeSpace at 970-462-9472 or learn more at www.safespacebuild ers.co ■

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Call Us Today For A FREE ASSESSMENT!

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SAFER SPACES SafeSpace Builders modifies spaces to accommodate people with disabilities as well as helping seniors stay in their homes.

We specialize in home modifications to make any space safer and more accessible

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT |

37

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Colorow Care Center IS THE ONLY EDEN ALTERNATIVE® CERTIFIED COMMUNITY ON THE WESTERN SLOPE.

We are dedicated to creating a quality of life for our Elders and their care partners.

Feeding our seniors Partnerships provide meals to Montrose seniors

By Gary Robertson

W Colorow is a skilled nursing facility that believes in healthy living, person-centered care and nontraditional approaches in meeting everyday needs.

Our services include: Respite Care • Hospice Care • Short and Long Term Skilled Nursing Care Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation Care Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy 855 S. Hwy 50 Business Loop Olathe, CO 81425

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ith the isolation that came with the pandemic, the need for senior nutrition programs increased in Montrose and Delta counties.

Last year, Region 10 partnered with Shepherd’s Hand to provide Montrose seniors with hot meals through home delivery and curbside services. Shepherd’s Hand prepares the hot meals that Region 10 RSVP volunteers then package as Grab and Go meals, which can be picked up curbside in Montrose from 10:30-11:30 a.m. during the week. Curbside meals are offered in Delta County on certain days.

Adults age 60 or older automatically qualify for the Grab and Go program. The delivery option, however, requires a demonstrated need such as inability to drive, temporary displacement due to a medical procedure or injury, or cognitive impairment.

As of March, more than 6,700

meals have been provided since the program began on July 6, according to Program Coordinator Joe Walker. Meals are funded through area agency on aging. Payment for meals is not required, but donations are welcome.

In addition to receiving meals, homebound clients enjoy daily interactions with the program’s friendly volunteers. The volunteer component of the program is funded by an AmeriCorps grant that focuses on helping seniors age at home.

“Partnerships are important to help meet the needs of the community,” said Walker. “Shepherd’s Hand provides the meals and we provide the volunteers. RSVP has done very well with recruiting volunteers, which makes this all possible.”

Volunteer drivers are trained to notice and report visible changes in clients’ health or behavior.

When a client requires additional

970-874-7288 204 Ute Street

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Food prep volunteers Emily Casedy, Chandra Panther and Jacque Gury, pose with Director of Shepherd’s Hand Garey Martinez and staff cook Michael Richard.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS and Shepherd’s Hand.

Beyond the personal gratification that comes with volunteering, benefits include supplemental health and liability insurance, and mileage reimbursement.

Volunteer applications can be downloaded online at www.region 10.net or call 970-765-3147 for more information. ■

health services, Region 10 staff can assist clients and caregivers by referring them to other community resources.

Shepherd’s Hand also prepares and serves a hot breakfast and lunch on week days in its commercial kitchen at 505 S. Second St. in Montrose. The Montrose Pavilion Senior Center also offers a dine-in option during the week with lunch supplied by The Stone House.

Volunteers of America offers frozen meals for those in remote areas.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Approximately 47 volunteers work to deliver 40-60 meals per day.

Volunteer drivers and packagers are always needed at Region 10 RSVP

SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAMS • To sign up for senior Grab and Go or home delivery programs in Montrose, call 970-765-3147.

• Shepherd’s Hand meals are provided Monday through Friday at 505 S. Second St., Montrose. Call 970-275-7215 for details.

• For hot meal delivery and for Grab and Go meals in Delta County, call 970-874-7661 to register.

• For details on Montrose Pavilion Senior Center lunches, call 970-249-9423.

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39

MeSa County May 3

Writers Night: Capturing Family & Culture

Connie Martinez shares how sharing her mother’s recipes with friends evolved into a published book capturing powerful Hispanic culture and memories from the 1930s-50s. This event is also streamed on Zoom.

Registration required.

6-7:30 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.westerncolo radowriters.org

May 4

New-to-Medicare 101

Learn from a trained and unbiased SHIP counselor about enrolling in Medicare. Registration required.

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 422 White Ave., Suite 090, Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacountyrsvp.org | 970-243-9839, ext. 1

CALENDAR

end handbags for purchase or silent auction, highball cocktails, appetizers, games, door prizes and raffle tickets. Proceeds benefit the Sister Michel Compassion Fund.

5:30-8:30 p.m. | 743 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction | $40 | https://cbo. io/bidapp/index.php?slug=smhf | 970-298-2478

May 6, 13, 20 & 27

Charcuterie Styling Workshop

Learn to design a charcuterie tray at this workshop by Mesa Meal Kits.

One ticket is good for two people to come and create one tray together.

Space is limited. Must RSVP. 5-7 p.m. | 571 25 Road, Grand Junction | $80 | 970-985-9609 | supper weekly@gmail.com

May 6-8

Birding on the Colorado River

May 6

Marcus King at the Avalon

A 25-year-old guitar phenom and innovative songwriter, Marcus King can simultaneously switch from swaggering rock to supersonic soul.

All five members of the band create a blistering yet soulful unit that has honed their synergy through endless touring.

7 p.m.-10 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $27-$67 | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-263-5757

May 6

St. Mary’s Highballs & Handbags Bring your girlfriends for a night out! This ’50s-style fundraising event includes new and gently used high-

Get your binoculars ready! Join Bill Harris as you float the Ruby-Horsethief stretch of the Colorado River and search the skies for eagles, peregrine falcons, blue herons and more on this three-day, two-night birding adventure. $525-$575 | www.coloradocanyon sassociation.org | 970-263-7902

May 7

Crocodile Rockin’

Jim Witter is not an Elton John impersonator although he rocks the Avalon stage with Sir Elton’s songs at Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s final concert of the season.

7:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $35 | www.avalontheatre gj.com | 970-263-5757

May 7

Sparkles & Spurs

Belly up to the bar, tie on the feedbag, and support the Art Center by pickin’ up some of the best artwork north of the Rio Grande! Put on your rhinestones and spurs and some to this fine art auction with themed cocktails, entertainment and more!

5-9 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St., Grand Junction | $30 single, $50 couple | www. gjartcenter.org | 970-2437337

RSVP. 10-11 a.m. | 327 N. 7th St., Grand Junction | Free | 970-243-3100

May 12

May 12

Virtual: Denver Through the Decades

This free online presentation provides a pictorial history of Denver from its inception through the 1970s, covering more than a hundred years of growth and change.

Register online for link.

6-7 p.m. | Free | www.treasurebox tours.com

May 12 Kansas

With a legendary career spanning nearly five decades, Kansas has firmly established itself as one of America’s iconic classic rock bands.

6:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $47-$123+ | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-263-5757

May 12

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

Identify the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease in this free seminar at Medicare Resource Center. Call to

HopeWest Volunteer Fair

HopeWest volunteers feel inspired, fulfilled, happy and connected! Discover all the volunteer opportunities and find the best fit for your skills and abilities at the HopeWest volunteer fair from 2-4 p.m. at the Ferris Care Center, room 102.

2-4 p.m. | 3090 N. 12th St., Grand Junction | Free | www. hopewestco.org | 970-257-2376

May 14

Grand Valley River Fest

Learn about environmental stewardship and celebrate our local waterways at Las Colonias Park! There will be a gear swap, rubber ducky race, slackline exhibit, throw bag tournament, paddle fit contest, gear demos, food trucks, a beer garden and more.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. | 725 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | Free | www.grand valleyriverfest.com | 970-256-7400

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May 14

Rodney Atkins

You are in for a treat when Rodney Atkins hits the Warehouse 25 Sixty Five stage and he’s bringing all his hits with him for a can’t-miss night of live country music!

7-11:30 p.m. | 2565 American Way, Grand Junction | $40-$85 | www. warehouse2565.com | 970-628-4321

May 14 Wuffstock

Celebrate the human-canine bond with live music from eve6, Leon & the Revival and The Static Channel at Las Colonias Amphitheater at this dog-friendly event. Proceeds benefit Roice-Hurst Humane Society.

2-9 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | $35-$75 | www. rhhumanesociety.org/wuff stock2022 | 970-434-7337

competitions, a rugby tournament and more!

9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday | 2785 Hwy US 50, Grand Junction | $20 | www.grand valleyhighlandgames.com | 970-2017757

May 15

Steve Hofstetter Comedy Show After Steve is done being yelled at

by Stephen A. Smith on national television and hosting “Laughs” on Fox Network, he heads to the Mesa Theater stage to provide you with some comic relief.

8 p.m. | 538 Main St., Grand Junction | $25-$100 | www.mesatheater. com | 970-773-1775

May 20

History of Wine in Palisade

Discover the interesting history of Palisade’s grape growing and wine making industry in this free presentation at the Ordinary Fellow Winery.

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

May 20-21

Glow N Games

May 14-15

Grand Valley Highland Games

This festival at the Mesa County Fairgrounds highlights Scottish and Irish cultures with education on family clan heritage, sanctioned dancing, bagpiping competitions, athletic

POLLEN COUNT MEDIUM

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LOW

Mesa County Sheriff’s Office presents this fundraiser at Long Family Park benefiting Special Olympics.

This family friendly event is part of Police Week. Two events make up the unified games: a glow-in-thedark 5K and a two-day CrossFit-style team challenge!

5-10 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday | 3117 F Road, Grand Junction

Are YOU prepared for allergy season?

We have all your allergy needs covered! Come see us!

| $30+ | sheriff.mesacounty.us/ glowngames | 970-244-3500

Grand Junction | $35-$55 | www. warehouse2565.com | 970-628-4321

May 24

May 27

Settle in for an evening of handcrafted acoustic Americana on the lawn of Two Rivers Winery. Gates open at 6 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner and purchase wine by the glass or bottle.

Proceeds benefit The Art Center.

7 p.m. | 2087 Broadway, Grand Junction | $15-$20 | www.artcenter guild.org | 970-314-7332

Connect with the Emerald Isle through this Grammy-nominated quartet at the Pikes Peak Center.

The “Postcards from Ireland” tour celebrates their homeland’s rich heritage with classics and original compositions. Includes dancers, bagpipers and traditional Celtic instruments.

6:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $49-$79+ | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-263-5757

Music in the Grapevines: Stray Grass

Celtic Woman

May 27

Jake Owen

Dial back and relax with country crooner and songwriter Jake Owen at Weidner Field as he sings about the simple things of life: dirt roads, sweet tea, blue jeans, going barefoot, small towns and fishing.

7-10 p.m. | 2565 American Way,

Grand Junction Modeleers invites you to watch their model airplanes take to the sky at this free event.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 115 32 Road, Grand Junction | Free | 970-778-5972 ■

Rides & Vibes Music Festival

Come downtown to watch crit mountain bike racing, sample local beers, check out outdoor vendors, food trucks and more! Spose, Funk & Gonzo, Wave 11, Zolopht, Soul Habit, Mark Broussard, The Yawpers, The Patient Zeros, Wowzers and Ricky Bobby & the Hellcat Fury all perform for free!

Downtown Grand Junction | Free | www.gjridesandvibes.com | 970-245-9697

SEE MORE EVENTS AT: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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970-242-2843 | 2454 Hwy 6 & 50, #116 | Grand Junction, CO 81505 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | CALENDAR |

41

MeSa County

CLUBS

American Association of University Women meets monthly.

2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 970261-2112

Make friends through cards, games, talk and tea.

Wednesdays | 2 p.m. | 970-2572390

Bookcliff Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to First Baptist Church.

Tuesdays | 7-9 p.m. | 970-257-7664

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, meets monthly.

970-250-7401

Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation.

Wednesdays & Fridays | 12:45 p.m. | 970-244-9989

Desert Vista Garden Club is open to all women.

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

Chatfield Country Kickers meets for square and round dancing at VFW #3981.

1st & 3rd Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | 970-434-0868 Citizens’ Climate Lobby meets via Zoom.

970-250-4832 | grandjunction@ citizensclimatelobby.org Clifton Book Club meets to discuss book selections at Clifton Library.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | www.mesacountylibraries.org Colorado Archaeological Society meets monthly.

2nd Monday | 970-250-7402 | www.CAS-GJ.org Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library.

3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 970-4346936 Cribbage Lite meets at IHOP. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 970-201-7823 Cups Club meets at The Artful Cup.

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

Wednesdays | 9:30-11:15 a.m. | 970260-0880 Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981. Former, retired and active sea service, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard welcome.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-4340868 Friendship Force, a club that promotes travel and cultural understanding through home stays, meets at New Covenant Baptist Church.

3rd Saturday | 12 p.m. | 214-5362250 | www.ffwcolo.com Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road, Grand Junction.

2nd Thursday at 7 p.m. | 4th Thursday at 6:30 p.m. | grandjunction rockclub@gmail.com Grand Junction Brush & Palette Club meets at The Art Center.

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

Grand Junction Modeleers meet monthly at 427 Sherman Drive.

2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-2168073 | www.gjmodeleers.comrcclub/ Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Grand Junction Convention Center.

3rd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | www.grandjunctionpmc.com Grand Junction Toastmasters meets in the Garden Room at The Commons of Hilltop.

Tuesdays | 6:45 a.m. | 970-361-1806 Grand Valley Pets Alive meets at Church of the Nativity.

3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970462-7554 Grand Valley Valor Quilters meets at Quilters Inspiration.

3rd Monday | 10 a.m.

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands Methodist Church.

1st & 3rd Wednesday at 6 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Wednesdays at 1 p.m. | 970-245-8817 or 970-257-1549 Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands Methodist Church.

2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2458817 Great Old Broads for Wilderness meets monthly.

970-596-8510 Guys’ Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction.

1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-243-8829 or 970-270-6184

Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction meets at Warehouse 25sixty-five.

Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664 Knights of Columbus #1062 meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2611952 Knitting Club meets at Community of Christ Church.

4th Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-623-1455 Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. www.mesacountygenealogy.org Newcomers Club meets at Grand Valley Event Center.

2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 970549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment, community and grace for adults 60+, meets at Koinonia.

2nd & 4th Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-433-7799 | www.cslgj.org Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at the Eagles Lodge in Grand Junction.

1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-208-9228 Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques.

970-256-9580 River City Singles meets at the Grand Junction Moose Lodge.

Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 970-210-2390 Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club.

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

Thenatural way to heal creams • balms • bath bombs • oils patches roll-ons • sprays • intimates and so much more!

FROM BUDGET TO CONNOISSEUR… WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

42 | CLUBS | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

970-283-8927

kgcolorado.com |

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

Come experience the SOS: Singles over 65 is an active, hip social club for single seniors! www.meetup.com/singles-over-65 Sunset Slope Quilters meets at Canyon View Vineyards Church’s South Chapel.

2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. | www.sunsetslopequilters.com Sweet Adelines, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, sings four-part barbershop harmony and rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church.

Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 970-245-1837 | www.grandmesaacappella.com Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets weekly.

Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-361-1806 Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | www.thunder mountaincameraclub.org Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Junction Masonic Center.

Thursdays | 970-261-1670 Veterans Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source.

Tuesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-2573760 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) #3981 meets at 503 Florence Road in Grand Junction.

1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 970-7788242 Western Colorado Amateur RadioClub meets at First Christian Church.

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

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at the Central Library.

1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-2012865 | www.wcacastronomy.org Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets at First Congregational Church.

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

Eagle Ridge • Post Physical,

Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247.

4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2507036

•

Western Slope Model Yacht Club meets at Canyon View Park’s north pond.

Saturdays | 10 a.m. | 970-2432957

•

•

• •

Occupational, and Speech Therapies Life Enrichment Programs Seven Days A Week Short and Long Term Care 24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care Hospice Care Respite Care

OPENINGS NOW AVAILABLE!

Western Slope Pickleball Club meets regularly.

970-241-8561 | www.western slopepickleballclub.com Wheels West Car Club meets at Grand Junction Moose Lodge.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www. wheelswestcarclub.org Writer Chicks Coffee Club, a ladies-only meeting for local writers, meets at Main Street Bagels.

Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | melody jones@melodyjonesauthor.com

Call today and talk with one of our Professional Care Experts!

970-243-3381

2425 Teller Avenue | Grand Junction, CO 81501

www.vivage.com/eagleridge

Bringing Health Care Home to You

Yoga for Military Members at Western Region One Source offers a free yoga class for military members and their families.

Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-257-3760 ■

Medicaid/Medicare Certified | Local Not-For-Profit Since 2002

Serving Grow Your Club’s Membership Mesa, Garfield,

List your club meetings in our monthly magazine for free!

Pitkin, Eagle and Gunnison Counties

EMAIL TO: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com OR CALL: 970-243-8829

Nursing and Therapy Services Personal Care, Homemaking, IHSS Personal Safety Devices

Nursing and Therapy Services Personal Care, Homemaking, IHSS Personal Safety Devices

g Servin ld, e rfi a G , a Mes agle E , in k Pit nnison and Gu es n u Co ti

www.summitwestcare.com

970-263-0202 Grand Junction 970-945-6455 Glenwood Springs Branch WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | CLUBS |

43

MeSa County Experience Summer Reading at Mesa County Libraries Summer Reading begins Wednesday, June 1, and wraps up Saturday, July 16. Along the way, kids, teens and adults will have opportunities to pursue their reading goals, win prizes in drawings and exercise their creativity in free events throughout the summer.

For more information, visit www. mesacountylibraries.org/srp or call 970-243-4442.

Property tax exemption for seniors and disabled veterans For those who qualify, 50 percent of the first $200,000 in actual value of their primary residence is exempted. The state pays the exempted portion of the property tax. Once approved, the exemption remains in effect for future years, and the applicant needs not reapply. The application deadline for the senior citizen exemption is July 15, 2022. Applications available at Mesa County Assessor’s Office, 544 Rood Ave., Grand Junction. The application deadline for disabled veterans is July 1, 2022. Applications available at www.dola.colorado.gov/dpt.

For details about the senior citizen exemption, call 970-244-1610. For

44 | BEACON BITS | MAY 2022 |

BEACON BITS

the disabled veteran exemption, call 303-284-6077.

Celebrate Older Americans Month with these virtual presentations

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). In 2022, ACL will be focusing on aging in place— how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. Learn more about statewide OAM initiatives in these two virtual presentations. Cost is $50 for both presentations. Register at www.oldercoloradansmonth.org or call 720-835-1976.

• May 19, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Virtual: Voices on Aging AARP National’s Chief Diversity Officer Ena Kane-Williams presents on diversity, equity and inclusion for legislation, and the reveal of Colorado Center for Aging’s “Voices on Aging” Video Archive Project, sharing successes and concerns on aging in communities across Colorado.

• May 25, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Virtual: Age My Way Strategies & Town Hall Hear the latest about Colorado’s recent legislative session successes

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

for aging your way, innovations with technology, what to know about homesharing and learn about “Aging in Community” from one of Colorado’s AARP Age-Friendly representatives.

Appleton Christian Church starts 13-week grief group

Need support and encouragement for your grief journey? Appleton Christian Church is beginning a 13-week, nondenominational GriefShare group led by caring people who have experienced grief and have successfully rebuilt their lives. Each session is self-contained, so you don’t have to attend in sequence. Group meets at the church, 2510 I-70 Frontage Road, from 1-2:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Cost is $5 for the session, which covers the cost of the book. For details, call 970-242-7380.

Medicare Walk-in Thursdays at RSVP

Do you have questions about your Medicare bills? Are you having difficulty paying for your Medicare expenses and/or need extra help with your prescription costs? Get free and unbiased help from State Certified Medicare Counselors from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Mesa County RSVP’s Walk-in Thursdays. No appointment

necessary! Mesa County RSVP is located inside US Bank at 422 White Ave., Suite 090, Grand Junction. For details, call 970-243-9839 or visit www.mesacountyrsvp.org.

Become a Connected Lakes volunteer

RiversEdge West and Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Connected Lakes Volunteer group meet the first Tuesday of each month from 8-10 a.m. May through October in the parking lot near the main entrance of Connected Lakes. Light snacks and coffee will be provided! Work will all be outside, so bring water, proper work attire and sun protection. Specialized tools will be provided, but you may also bring your own. For details, call 970-256-7400 or visit www. riversedgewest.org.

Friends of Mesa County Library Clearance Book Sale

Stock up on reading material to add to your home library at The Friends of Mesa County Libraries’ weekly book sale through May 14. Sale hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. Fifth St., Grand Junction. All proceeds will benefit the Clifton Branch Library Project. Books and CDs are $1 and DVDs are $2. Cash only.

BEACON BITS

Rocky Mountain Wing seeks handy men and women to help restore historic planes

The Commemorative Air Force’s Rocky Mountain Wing needs handy men and women—woodworkers, mechanics, electronic experts, etc.—to help restore its historic twin-engine Link Trainer to its original glory! Contact Kent Taylor at 970-921-3700 or acrockent outlook.com for more information.

Community Concerts announces next season lineup

Entering its 78th year, Community Concerts of the Grand Valley has announced the acts in its 20222023 season. The six-concert lineup features a potpourri of internationally-acclaimed musicians, singers, dancers and theater groups live at the Avalon Theatre in downtown Grand Junction. New ticket sales start June 14! Season tickets start at $80. Individual concert tickets are $35. Existing patrons can renew their tickets before May 21, or can change their seats from May 24 to June 11. All tickets will be purchased through the Avalon Theatre Box Office from 12-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Watch previews of the acts at www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.org or call 970243-1979 for more information.

• Divas 3 - October 13, 2022, 7:30 p.m.

• Cherish the Ladies - October 28, 2022, 7:30 p.m.

• The Everly Set - November 15, 2022, 7:30 p.m.

• Sail On! Surfin’ Party Band January 15, 2023, 3 p.m.

• Dan Miller Cowboy Review February 2, 2023, 7:30 p.m.

• Beginnings: The Chicago Tribute Band - April 25, 2023, 7:30 p.m. ■ Send news and announcements to

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Ariel Clinical Services is looking for host homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. www.arielcpa.org | 970-245-1616 A Little Help volunteers help older adults with home services, errands and more. www.alittlehelp.org | 970-4041923 Colorado Master Gardeners teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. https://tra.extension.colostate. edu | 970-244-1834 Connected Lakes Stewards work outside to restore the area’s wetlands and riparian habitats. www.riversedgewest.org | 970256-7400 Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers serve in various positions. www.foodbankrockies.org/west ern-slope-volunteer | 970-4641138 Grand Junction Visitor Center tourism ambassadors welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. www.visitgrandjunction.com | 970-256-4054 Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | 970-243-9839 MOPS Kids volunteers watch children during MOPS meetings at Canyon View Vineyard Church.

970-549-6637 Museum of Western Colorado has a variety of opportunities. www.museumofwesternco.com | info@westcomuseum.org Operation Interdependence volunteers hand-write notes sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 970-523-4217 Palisade Historical Society volunteers share Palisade’s history and work on committees. www.historicpalisade.org |

ARE YOU TURNING 65 OR NEW TO MEDICARE?

When you retire, don’t lose health coverage Retire right with a Humana Medicare Advantage plan that fits your life Your local, licensed Humana sales agent can help you explore your options and see if you’re eligible to enroll in one of Humana’s affordable Medicare Advantage plans upon retirement. Get the benefits you want and need so you can focus on making your retirement what you want it to be—enjoying the things you love.

From helping you find a doctor to assisting with unexpected barriers, Humana goes above and beyond to help you get the healthcare you need.

That’s called human care.

Call a licensed Humana sales agent

Patti Zapf

970-301-8752 (TTY: 711)

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. pzapf@humana.com

A more human way to healthcare™ Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion.

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

Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文 ，您可以 免費獲得語言援助服務 。請致電 1-877-320-1235 (TTY :711) 。

Y0040_GHHJWWVEN22_AD_M

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | BEACON BITS |

45

SUPPORT GROUPS CALENDAR

MeSa Montrose County & Delta Alzheimer’s Association’s Persons with Dementia support group meets virtually. Register for Zoom link.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org Caregiver Connections meets on Zoom.

Tuesdays | 10-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-2390 Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella Grand Junction. Call to RSVP. 1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-822-7070 Caregiver Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge Care Center.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416 Compassionate Friends offers friendship to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents at Messiah Lutheran Church.

1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-434-3822 Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets at the Alzheimer’s

Association office.

4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. | 970714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge Care Center.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416 Gamblers Anonymous’ 12-step meeting is held at The Meeting Hall.

Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719 GriefShare gives support and encouragement on your grief journey at Appleton Christian Church.

Wednesdays | 1-2:30 p.m. | May 4-July 27 | 970-242-7380 Grief Group for Pets meets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society.

2nd Wednesday, bi-monthly | 6-7 p.m. | 970-434-7337, ext. 103 Guitars 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source.

Tuesdays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760 Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists (St. Mary’s Hospital).

PLEASE JOIN OUR MONTHLY

DEMENTIA DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP SUPPORT GROUP PLEASE JOIN OUR MONTHLY

Tuesdayofofeach each month month atatAspen Ridge 2nd2nd Tuesday Aspen Ridge Activity Room Activity Room 1:30 - 3:00 PM 1:30 - 3:00 PM Open to any caregiver in the community, this group is an opportunity to

share with others experiencing a similar journeyiscaring for a loved to Open to and anylearn caregiver in the community, this group an opportunity one learn with dementia.

Caregivers may bringa their loved one to caring participate. share and with others experiencing similar journey for a loved one with dementia. Caregivers may bring their loved one to participate.

RSVP TO (970) 640-7416

RSVP TO (970) 640-7416

1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2452400 Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 970-298- 2351 Hearing Loss of America, WesternColorado Chapter, meets at Center for Independence 2nd Saturday | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-241-0315 ext. 29 HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church.

3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 970-7789274 Job Searching After 50 meets at Mesa County Workforce Center.

Register as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-10 a.m. | 970-248-7560 Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 970-2982351 MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room.

1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 970-2982351 Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location.

Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-2572390 Mens Health Group (veterans) meets at Western Region One Source.

1st Mondays | 9:30-11 a.m. | 970- 257-3760 Moms Group (veterans) meets at Western Region One Source.

1st and 4th Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-257-3760 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fruita.

4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www.

NAMIWS.org | 970-462-3989 Parents (Family) of Addicted Loved Ones meets at Four Winds.

Thursdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2162232 St. Mary’s Stroke support group meets monthly virtually and in person.

3rd Friday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-2981980 Tai Chi for Veterans at Western Region One Source in Grand Junction.

Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-2573760 TOPS Club weight-loss support group meets at Grace Point Church.

Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 970-523-0241 TOPS Colorado 458 weight-loss support group meets at Community of Christ Church.

Tuesdays | 5 p.m. | 970-628-4981 Veteran Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source.

Wednesdays | 8-10:30 a.m. | 970-257-3764 Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only support group meets at Grand Junction Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 970-263-8986 Vets 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source.

Fridays | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-257-3760 Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 970-298-2351 Women Veterans Tai Chi at Western Region One Source.

Fridays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-2573760 Yoga For Life meets at St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room.

Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 p.m. | 970-2982351 Yoga for Veterans at Western Region One Source.

Thursdays | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-257-3760 ■

622 28 1/4 Rd | Grand Junction, CO 81506 | aspenridgealz.com | (970) 254-1233

List your support group for FREE

622 28 1/4 Rd | Grand Junction, CO 81506 | aspenridgealz.com | (970) 254-1233

Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com or Call 970-243-8829

46 | SUPPORT GROUPS | MAY 2022 |

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FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Recreation Center activities To register for programs, call the Fruita Community Center at 970-858-0360 or visit www.fruita.org/parksrec/page/seniors

SPECIAL EVENTS All activities take place or depart from the Fruita Senior Center unless otherwise noted.

Cinco de Mayo Luncheon Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a catered lunch.

11:30 a.m. | May 5 | $8

Healthy Brain & Body

This free seminar is held by Woo Bandel with the Alzheimer’s Association.

1 p.m. | May 11 | Free

Senior Potluck

Bring a dish to share, or pay $3 at the door. Main dishes will be lasagna on May 12 and pork roast on May 26.

12 p.m. | May 12 & 26 | $3 or bring a dish

Moab Hummer Safari

Join us for a two-hour 4x4 thrill ride followed by lunch at the Moab Brewery! Learn about the geology and history of the area while weaving in and out of rock canyons. There will be time to get out and take photos.

7 a.m. | May 18 | $185

Hike Flume Creek Canyon

This 4.5-mile moderate hike takes us to McInnis Canyons National Recreation Area.

8 a.m. | May 24 | $5

GAMES Cornhole League

Register by May 15 for this six-

week adult league for adults 50 and older (there’s also a division for ages 16-49).

5:30-6:30 p.m. | Wednesdays | Fruita Community Center Back Yard | $40

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

Game Night

Play dominoes, Mexican train and many other games at the Senior Center.

5 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Tuesdays

FITNESS Visit the Fruita Community Center for more classes!

SilverSneakers Yoga

Perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. A chair can be used for support.

11:30 a.m. | Mondays & Fridays

SilverSneakers Classic

Dancing, Potluck & Games

Dance to live music followed by a potluck at noon and games at 1 p.m. Most games are 50 cents per session.

10 a.m. | May 3 | Senior Recreation Center

FITNESS Gentle Yoga

Practice flexibility of your mind and body. Punch passes available.

8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Lincoln Park Barn | $7 drop in, $50 10-punch pass

MONDAY 9:00 am 12:00 p.m.

1:00 pm 6:00 pm

This choreographed class is taught to a variety of music. No partner required.

12:15-2 p.m. | Mondays | April 18 - May 16 | Lincoln Park | $15 session

SPORTS Senior Softball League

Sign up in May for this co-ed softball league for active adults—men age 50+ and women 40+.

Enrollment ends May 31. Contact Kris Martin at 970-210-7884 or email slowpitchkm13@gmail. com.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Saturdays | Columbine Park Fields

Cribbage & Games Canasta Card Bingo Pinochle (DD)

TUESDAY

Line Dancing

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement for daily life activities.

A chair can be used for support.

11:30 a.m. | Tuesdays

8:00 am 9:00 am

1:00 pm

Pinochle (DD) Pool Tournament & Games Bingo

WEDNESDAY 9:00 am Crafts & Games 9:30 am Pool 1:00 pm Pinochle Call 970-243-7408 from 8-11 a.m. to play Pinochle

THURSDAY 1:00 pm 6:00 pm 10:00 am 12:00 pm 6:00 pm

Pokeno Bunco Cribbage Pokeno Bunco

FRIDAY 9:00 a.m.

12:45 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

Low Impact Cardio & Strength

Ramp up your heart rate and improve strength in this low-impact fitness class.

10:15 a.m. | Wednesdays

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

Pinochle

Play pinochle with friends at the Senior Center.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

550 Ouray Ave., Grand Junct.

970-243-7408

NOW HIRING Hiring part-time/seasonal

Are you looking to volunteer, or searching for a part time or seasonal job with flexible hours?

Visit www.gjcity.org/jobs

Pool Tournament & Games Bridge Canasta

SATURDAY 9:00 am Canasta 10:00 am Tai Chi 1:00 pm Bingo

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | FUN AFTER 50 |

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Montrose & Delta

CALENDAR

May 5

Montrose | Free | action.alz.org/ mtg/79833998 | 800-272-3900

Storyteller Dave Lively tells the tale of the Harbison sisters who homesteaded in the peaceful valley around Rocky Mountain National Park at the Montrose Library. This story leads up to the development (and underdevelopment) of Rocky Mountain National Park.

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

May 6-7

May 5-8

Buy, sell and trade your used outdoor gear to benefit the Nature Connection’s Gear Swap’s kids programs. The trail and mountain bike races on the Crossroads Trail System features a 10K course with very moderate hills. There will be a 1K ride for kids under 7!

8 a.m.-2 p.m. | 397 Bulldog St., Hotchkiss | www.thenatureconnec tion.net | 970-872-5910

Sisters of Change

Lion’s Club Carnival

Take the grandkids out for some good ol’ fashioned carnival fun!

Browns Carnival will bring rides, games and concessions for the Montrose Lions Club carnival at the Montrose County Fairgrounds. An all-day ride ticket is $30 if purchased in advance from Abel’s Ace Hardware or Coffee Trader.

5-11 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 12 p.m.-12 a.m. Saturday, 1 p.m.

Sunday | 1001 N. 2nd St., Montrose | Facebook: Montrose Lion’s Club Presents the Carnival

May 6

Alzheimer’s Community Forum

Learn more about Alzheimer’s, dementia and resources available, and share your thoughts on how local organizations can better help people impacted by dementia at Cascade Hall. Refreshments provided by Medicare Resource Center. Registration required.

10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | 336 S. 3rd St.,

Mother’s Day Craft Show

Stop by Friendship Hall at the Montrose County Fairgrounds to find that special gift for mom for Mother’s Day. 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. | 1001 N. 2nd St., Montrose | 970-531-2438

May 7

Gear Swap & Spring Trail Race

May 7

Donny Morales Concert

Come to the the Sherbino Theater for a wonderful evening of music by Donny Morales. Courtyard tables are by reservation only with two seatings available.

5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway | $10 | www.sherbino. org | 970-318-0892

May 7

Cousin Curtiss at Partners Palooza

This festival benefitting Partners brings live bands, food trucks and activities to Cerise Park. See Cousin

Curtiss, Farmer in The Sky and ALTO perform, and stay to learn more about how mentoring can change two lives.

1-6 p.m. | Shanes Way, Montrose | www.partners-west.org | 970-2491116

out forms and need explained the process and procedure for civil legal issues. Patrons are encouraged to have their desktop, laptop or tablet available during the call.

2-5 p.m. | Free | www.deltalibraries. org | 970-874-9630

May 7

May 12

Magic With Ty Gallenbeck

Mind Blown Telluride is the No. 1 show in Colorado. Magician Ty Gallenbeck will make you laugh, question reality and be part of creating an experience you won’t forget at Upstairs at Precedence. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress, as it helps create a magical evening. No children under 8.

7 p.m. | 511 E. Main St., Montrose | $20 | www.mindblown.wellattend ed.com/events/mind-blown-up stairs | 970-209-0298

May 12

Free Legal Clinic

This free legal clinic is for parties who have no attorney but who need help answering questions, filling

Virtual: Denver Through the Decades

This free online presentation provides a pictorial history of Denver from its inception through the 1970s, covering more than a hundred years of growth and change.

Register online for link.

6-7 p.m. | Free | www.treasurebox tours.com

May 13-15

Montrose Home Expo

Just in time to finish up your home improvement projects for fall, see the latest in home improvement, remodeling, design, outdoor living and more at the Montrose Home Expo. Meet with local and national vendors that can help you tackle any

May 13-15, 19-21 & 27-28 Fiddler on the Roof

This award winning, timeless tale is woven together with an incredible score and performed by the Magic Circle Players.

7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays | 420 S. 12th St., Montrose | $20+ | www.magiccircleplayers.com | 970-249-7838

Relocating or retiring soon?

Let us help you find answers to all of your real estate questions

As senior broker associates, we understand the importance of respect, honesty, and integrity throughout the entire buying or selling process.

We will:

Customize a marketing plan to sell your property.

Assist in navigating the Western Slope real estate market to purchase a new home.

Call The Boren Teamy!

Toda

Darrell Boren

GO that extra mile to help you accomplish your real estate goals from the beginning to the very end!

Julia Boren

970-768-3399 970-380-3783

1425 Hawk Parkway, Ste. 5 | Montrose, CO 81401 | ColoradoWesternSlopeRealty.com |

48 | CALENDAR | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Darrell & Julia

CALENDAR MAGIC CIRCLE PLAYERS EST. 1959

size project at the Montrose County Event Center!

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 1036 N. 7th St., Montrose | Free | www.montrose homeexpo.com | 800-210-4663

May 14

Community Yard Sale

Get started on your spring cleaning and support Montrose area veterans at this community yard sale by Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans.

8 a.m. | 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way, Montrose | www.whafv.org | 970-7652210

May 15

Montrose Mudder

Black Canyon Interact Club hosts the first-ever Montrose Mudder at Cerise Park. This 5K mud run consists of nine obstacles that will put you to the test. There will be a live band, food trucks and a beer garden.

1-6 p.m. | Shanes Way, Montrose | $40-$50 | www.blackcanyonrotary. org | 970-497-0100

May 19

AARP Smart Driver Class

The course teaches proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

Plus, you could be eligible for a multi-year discount on your auto insurance. AARP members save $5 on this class, held at Montrose Health & Human Services.

8:45 a.m.-1 p.m. | 1845 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose | $25 | www.mesa countyrsvp.org | 970-319-0137

May 21

Our Slope Beer Fest

This all-Western Slope beer and music festival features local food trucks, craft breweries and live music in Cleland Park. Tickets include an unlimited sampling of beer.

2-6 p.m. | Howard St., Delta | $35$50 | www.ourslopebeerfest.com

May 22

The Yawpers

If there was justice in this world, the Yawpers would be the savior that rock-n-roll didn’t know it was waiting for. See them live at The Sherbino.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

8 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway |

The Magic of Live Theatre

$20+ | www.sherbino.org | 970-3180892

FOR 62 YEARS

May 26 PONCE

Nashville’s PONCÉ brings their brand of indie rock ‘n’ roll to Horsefly Brewing!

6-9 p.m. | 640 E. Main St., Montrose | 970-249-6889

May 26-30

Mountainfilm Festival

Mountainfilm uses the power of film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world. Held every Memorial Day weekend, Mountainfilm is a multi-dimensional documentary film festival that celebrates adventure, activism, social justice, culture, environment and indomitable spirit. Also available online from May 31 to June 7.

Telluride | www.mountainfilm.org | 970-728-4123

May 27

Zach Cornell

Based on Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl

Book by JOSEPH STEIN

Music by JERRY BOCK

Produced on the New York Stage by HAROLD PRINCE Original New York Stage Production Directed and Choreographed

By JEROME ROBBINS DIRECTOR ALLYSON SHAW CROSBY

FRIDAY • MAY 13, 20, 27 & JUNE 3 @ 7:30PM SATURDAY • MAY 14, 21, 28 & JUNE 4 @ 7:30PM THURSDAY • MAY 19 & JUNE 2 @ 7:30PM SUNDAY • MAY 15 & 29 @ 2:00PM FIDDLER ON THE ROOF is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI shows. www.MTIShows.com

COME

Play WITH US

MagicCirclePlayers.com • 420 S. 12th • Montrose, CO • 970-249-7838 • mcp@montrose.net

Healthy Rhythm Music Services presents Zach Cornell, whose unique brand of Americana includes everything from gentle acoustic ballads to rowdy tunes fit for the best honkytonks around. Doors open at 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m. | 232 E. Main St., Montrose | $13+ | www.healthyrhythm. net

Peace of Mind Living

May 27-29

Folks N Roots Rendezvous

Spend Memorial Day Weekend camping out at Big B’s Delicious Orchards with a contra dance at 6 p.m. and three days of live music by Kat Wright, Laney Lou & the Bird Dogs, Honey Don’t & Friends and more.

39126 Hwy 133, Paonia | $13+ | www.bigbs.com n

Lyrics by SHELDON HARNICK

Come Home to Crossroads Continuum of Care

Crossroads at Delta’s 8 acre campus sits atop a bluff with a stunning view of the Grand Mesa.

Move here at any stage of life 55+, and enjoy our campus as you enter a new chapter of your life.

• Independent Living • Assited Living • Memory Care A place to call home.

Retirement the way it should be

SEE MORE EVENTS AT

www.Beacon SeniorNews.com

crossroadsalc.org | 970.874.1421 Crossroads at Delta | 1380 Aspen Way | Delta, CO 81416

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | CALENDAR |

49

Montrose & Delta Alpine Photography Club meets in classroom 100 at Colorado Mesa University’s Montrose campus.

2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus sings four-part a cappella at Olathe United Methodist Church.

Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m.

CLUBS

970-773-4495 | deltawriter47@ gmail.com Friendship Quilters meet at Montrose County Fairgrounds’ Friendship Hall 4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 970-417-4842

Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets at Montrose Senior Center.

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

Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society meets at Montrose Genealogy Center.

Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m. | 970-240-1755

Book Club meets virtually through Montrose Regional Library.

1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

Gold Prospectors of America meets at Olathe Community Center.

3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-596-9184 | www.wcgpaa.org

Chess Club meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta.

5:30-8 p.m. | Tuesdays | 970-8740923

Crafty Chatty members socialize and work on craft projects. Bring your own materials. Call for details.

970-249-7198 Columbine Quilters gather monthly for fellowship and refreshments at 4 Hilcrest Plaza Way, Montrose.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-4623849 | paulalakecity@gmail.com Delta Hub-Wheelers Square Dance Club seeks new dancers!

Montrose County Historical Society meets at Friendship Hall at Montrose County Fairgrounds.

1st Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2492085 | www.montrosehistory.org Montrose Elks hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge.

Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-249-4852 Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. www.mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970-765-0599 | mmaaflyer@gmail. com Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at Montrose Pavilion.

Dancers of all ages are welcome.

2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-11 p.m. | $5 | 970-252-7172

Citizen’s Climate Lobby meets a Montrose Regional Library.

May 16 | 5:30 p.m. | 970-765-9095 Crafternoon meets in Montrose Library’s meeting room. Members knit and crochet projects to donate to charities. Supplies provided.

1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays | 2:30- 4:30 p.m. | 970-249-9656

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center.

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

Party Bridge Club meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta.

1-4 p.m. | Thursdays | 970-874-0923

Golden Circle of Friends meets for lunch at Montrose Senior Center.

Bring lunch and socialize. Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

San Juan Dance Club offers dance lessons at Precedence Dance Academy in Montrose. Singles welcome.

Thursdays | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 970-252-9600 | patdouglas213@ yahoo.com

Kiwanis Club of Delta meets at Daveto’s for lunch.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 12 p.m. | 970-985-8413

Tuesday Needlers Delta meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center.

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays | 970874-0923

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970986-2550 | lvcribbs@charter.net

Veterans Coffee Cedaredge meets at The Pondy.

3rd Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center.

Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org Veterans Coffee Westend meets at the Nucla Airport.

2nd Wednesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-209-5326 ■

SUPPORT GROUPS

COVID-19 Grief Group meets at Touch of Care in Montrose.

Last Tuesday | 12 p.m. | 970-787-9988 Dementia Caregivers Support Group in Delta meets in locations throughout Delta County. .

1st & 3rd Wednesday at Grand Mesa Arts Center in Cedaredge | 2nd & 4th Wednesday at Hotchkiss Town Hall | Thursdays at 480 Silver St. in Delta | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724 Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room.

2nd Tuesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-874-6410 NAMI Family Support Group meets at the PIC Place, 87 Merchant Drive, Montrose.

3rd Wednesday | 5:30-7 p.m. | 970-520-282-9060 TOPS Montrose weight-loss support group meets weekly at Hillcrest Congregational Church.

Mondays | 5 p.m. | 970-901-8697

Your place to call Anciano Tower is an affordable, older adult community (62+) with several apartments equipped to accommodate those who are mobility impaired.

Amenities Include: ■ On-Site Laundry Room ■ Individual Indoor Mailboxes ■ Locked Entry Access System ■ Large Community Room

Free WiFi Elevator Landscaped Grounds Ample Parking On-Site Management & Maintenance ■ Service Coordinator

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Grow Your Club’s Membership For more information, please call

970-249-8844 or email us at:

ancianotower@rhf.org

Visit our website for an application: www.rhf.org/location/anciano-tower

50 | CLUBS | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

List your club meetings in our monthly magazine for free!

EMAIL TO: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com OR CALL: 970-243-8829

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities Silver Sneakers Classic

easy hike). Meet at the Community Recreation Center.

8 a.m.-4 p.m. | May 12 | $20

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Elk Mountain Resort Lunch & Tour To register for programs, call 970-252-4884 or visit www.montroserec.com

FREE LECTURES Call 970-252-4884 to reserve your seat.

Peace Parks of Africa

Kate Burke shares photos, maps and videos from Africa’s Peace Parks Foundation, whose mission is to re-establish, renew and preserve large functional ecosystems and historic wild animal trails.

1 p.m. | May 9 | Senior Center

Tales of Montrose

Sally Johnson’s presentation examines the unknown stories and colorful tales of Downtown Montrose.

1 p.m. | May 16 | Senior Center

A Little History of a Little Piece of Montrose County

Carl Clay, president of the Hotckiss/ Crawford Historical Museum, shares the history of the area near Maher, outside of Crawford. This presentation focuses on Sam Hartman and includes historic photographs.

1 p.m. | May 23 | Senior Center

TRIPS & TOURS Montrose Recreation Center offers scholarships for adults 55+. Call 970249-7705 for details

Tour: Western Culture Farmstead & The Living Farm

We’ll head to Paonia and tour Western Culture Farmstead & Creamery and The Living Farm. We’ll be greeted by baby sheep and get to feed baby goats. Meet at the senior center.

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | May 6 & 13 | $26

Glade Park Hikes

Hike to Miracle Walk (2-mile moderate hike) and drive down the road to the hike for Dolores Falls (1/2 mile

Elk Mountain Resort is located on nearly 300 acres of spruce, pine and aspen forest with abundant wildlife nearby. Dine on southern-style comfort food prepared by the head chef and then tour the resort and surrounding buildings.

Meet at the senior center and bring money for lunch.

10:45 a.m.-3 p.m. | May 20 | $15

Sashay Through History

Sally Johnson leads this behindthe-scenes tour of several historical buildings in the downtown area.

Must be able to walk multiple blocks. Meet at the senior center and bring money for lunch downtown.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. | May 24 | $25

Water Float Trip

Take a relaxing 2-hour float trip down the Colorado River from Palisade Park to James M. Robb Colorado River State Park at Corn Lake. Meet at the senior center.

7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | May 31 | $62

ACTIVITIES Saturday Night Dances

Live music by New Vision on May 14 and Route 66 on May 28.

7:30-11 p.m. | May 14 & 28 | $10 per person | Senior Center

Jam Session/Sing Along

Body Blitz

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

CLASSES Tuesday Needlers

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Pinochle

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

Dominoes

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

Party Bridge Club

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

Chess Club

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

FITNESS Indoor Pickleball

Play this fun sport with an even funnier name.

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

Pilates

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

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

Takes turns picking and leading a song. Spectators welcome.

3:45-5:45 p.m. | Mondays | Senior Center

Senior Circuit

Line Dancing

Body Bar

Learn line dancing steps with formal instruction.

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

GAMES Contact the senior center for a schedule! n

Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises.

9 a.m. | Monday through Friday

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class.

9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m.

Thursdays

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre elements.

12 p.m. | Tuesdays

POOL FITNESS Monday Movers

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

5:30 p.m. | Mondays

Pool Power

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas.

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

Body & Health

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

10:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength, designed for beginners.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

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

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Splash

Get an entire body workout using a weighted fitness bar.

9 a.m. Mondays | 6 a.m. Wednesdays

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

8:30 a.m. | Mondays & Wednesdays

Healthy Body Strong Bones

Water Zumba

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

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

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

5:30 p.m. | Wednesdays n

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Montrose & Delta Region 10 RSVP launches Handy Helper program in Delta Do you need a handy person? RSVP’s Delta Handy Helper Program can help anyone over 60 years of age with minor home maintenance repairs such as replacing light bulbs, batteries and filters; installing grab bars, handrails and

BEACON BITS

smoke detectors; starting swamp coolers; building wheelchair ramps and risers; minor plumbing and electrical work; interior and exterior painting; caulk or grout repair, and more. For more information or to request help, call 844-862-4968. To volunteer, contact Kylynn Wilson at 970-7653135 or kylynn@region10.net

Mindfully making peace with the body and pain

This six-week course teaches you about building a peaceful and loving relationship with your body so that you can listen to its wisdom and live as your healthiest, happiest and most balanced self. Learn how to stop fighting with pain and illness by nurturing the underlying needs of the mind, body and spirit. Group meets on Thursdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Trailhead Clinic, 401 S. Park Ave. Cost is $60. Call 970-240-8199 to register.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers series

Are you feeling stretched caring for a military member or a veteran?

Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a class designed to provide you, the caregiver, with skills to take care of yourself. Starting May 19, this series of six classes, held virtually once each week, offers tools and

support to help you reduce stress, solve problems and communicate confidently when faced with tough decisions. Classes are conducted on Zoom from 6-7:30 p.m. Cost is $40. To register, visit go.iastate. edu/RE58OT. If cost is a barrier and you’re 60 or older, call Eva Veitch at 970-765-3127.

Rocky Mountain Wing seeks handy men and women to help restore historic planes The Commemorative Air Force’s Rocky Mountain Wing needs handy men and women—woodworkers, mechanics, electronic experts, etc.—to help restore its historic twin-engine Link Trainer to its original glory! Contact Kent Taylor at 970-921-3700 or acrockent@outlook.com for more information. n

NOW OPEN UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!

Introducing

We Care About Your Recovery WE OFFER: Respite Care Short-Term Skilled Care Long-Term Care Hospice Care Rehab-to-Home Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies Private & Semi-Private Rooms

( Formerly San Juan Living Center)

Ask About Our Respite Care Special!

1043 Ridge Street | Montrose, Co 81401 | ElkRidgeHRC.com 52 | BEACON BITS | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Most Insurance Accepted Medicare, Medicaid and Commercial

970-249-9683

BEACON BITS

Celebrate Older Americans Month with these virtual presentations

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM).

In 2022, ACL will be focusing on aging in place—how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. This year’s theme is Age My Way, an opportunity for all of us to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities.

Learn more about state-wide OAM initiatives in these two virtual presentations. Cost is $50 for both presentations. Register at www.oldercoloradansmonth.org or call 720-835-1976.

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

• May 19, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Virtual: Voices on Aging AARP National’s Chief Diversity Officer Ena Kane-Williams presents on diversity, equity and inclusion for legislation, and the reveal of Colorado Center for Aging’s “Voices on Aging” Video Archive Project, sharing successes and concerns on aging in communities across Colorado.

• May 25, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Virtual: Age My Way Strategies & Town Hall Hear the latest about Colorado’s recent legislative session successes for aging your way, innovations with technology, what to know about homesharing and learn about “Aging in Community” from one of Colorado’s AARP Age-Friendly representatives.

Golden Circle Seniors volunteers greet and serve lunch during the week.

970-252-4888 Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans volunteers to help at its ReStore or construction sites. www.buildinglives.org | 970-252-9303 Museum of the Mountain West volunteer tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. www.museumofthemountain west.org | 970-240-3400 Senior CommUnity Meals seeks volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors in Delta and Montrose counties. www.seniorcommunitymeals. org | 970-874-7661

For Reliable, Quality Service You Can We know the challenges of installing secured fencing from basic to custom gates and operators. We design and install distinctive driveway entries and archways, decorative arbors, pergolas, and decking.

FREE ESTIMATE! FINANCING AVAILABLE

Call us today!

We’ll help you build your dream fence!

(970) 249-4430

1568 N Townsend Ave. • Montrose, CO Visit Us Online for More Information EnglandFence.com •

Sharing Ministries Food Bank in Montrose seeks volunteers for three hours, one day a week. www.sharingministries.com | 970-240-8385 Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. www.timebankoftherockies. com | 970-209-6886 Welcome Home Allaince for Veterans volunteers support Montrose County veterans with a variety of projects.

970-765-2210 | www.whafv.org

Send news and announcements to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MAY 2022 | BEACON BITS |

53

FUN & GAMES

54 | FUN & GAMES | MAY 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

FUN & GAMES

CROSSWORD Experience Summer Reading at Mesa County Libraries!

All ages welcome!

ACROSS 1.

5.

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21.

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Scrapes (out) Collector’s goal Ebbets Field hero Actress Heche Soccer legend Steve of country music Network of nerves Lascivious look Take ___ for the worse Gazette Flop Samuel’s teacher, in the Bible Naval rank, briefly Tool to break solid water Nissan model Headliner Skater Babilonia Tire feature Latin love Funny Foxx Work clothes Oscar winner Paquin Airport near Paris Gillette razors Feathery wrap

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Examine by touch Most loyal Gallery event Wager Fine hair Pro ___ (for now) Muse of tragedy Look after ...___ saw Elba Mother of the Valkyries Chilean pianist Claudio Require Hunt for Poles for sails Recipe amt.

Ethereal

DOWN

1. Serious in intention 2. One bent in

reverance 3. Fold 4. Witnesses 5. Oozes 6. Robt. ___ 7. Region 8. Person with a paper, perhaps 9. Devour

10.

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Learned Camera type, briefly Poet’s dusk Primary strategy Lost in Paris?

Have concern Structural engineer’s software Rib And here it is!

Little Mutual arrangement Queue after Q Christmas Keep an ___ the ground Attorneys’ org. ___’easter Chats Arbitrator Into separate parts A poorly-wiped window?

Renowned Lukewarm Went after Censor “___ Tu” (‘70s hit) City near Phoenix Friend of Frodo Pitching stat

•Read and Learn!

•Earn FREE Books!

•Participate in prize drawings!

•Enjoy creative and engaging activities!

SUDOKU

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55

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS RATES

I will do in home care for you in Palisade. Cooking, cleaning, errands, grocery shopping, driving to doctors appointments etc. 970-261-1788.

CLASSES MAKE A PORCELAIN DOLL classes, supplies & sales. Make a doll from start to finish!

Fun Hobby * Bring a Friend * CERAMIC CLASSES also. Call for class times. 970-7788075.

Always Free Women’s Self Defense classes for Ladies 18 and older for groups of 2 to 24. No athleticism required with safety for all. Simple yet effective methods to escape assault.

Offered by nationally certified Black Belt with over 35 years of experience.

Please call (not text) Bob at 970261-2445 and leave your name and number.

To place your classified, call -243-8829 970

970-243-8829

or submit online at

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

or submit at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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HELP WANTED

HOME SERVICES

Bookcliff Country Club Golf Course Maintenance is accepting applications. Flexible schedules are available. Work outdoors. Golf benefit.

Apply online at bookcliffcc.com/about/ employment or email grounds@ bookcliffcc.com 970-243-3323

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. 970-216-0048.

HOME SERVICES SCENE CLEARLY WINDOW CLEANING LLC. Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter! Grand Junction area. Call Frank Cordova at 970-242-1264.

WINDOW CLEANING by Denali Vezakis. I currently work for a busy window cleaning company, looking for extra window cleaning jobs in Grand Junction. Call or text Denali at 970623-6758.

List it. Sell it. Done.

970-243-8829, x102

! y a d o t e b i r Subsc

Deadline is the

30 words or less per ad

Private Party $29 | Commercial $49 | CAREGIVERS

To place your classified, call:

CLUTTER BE GONE GJ Home Organizer. Feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? I can help you declutter and reorganize to live a less stressful, safer life. Room decluttering, Estate sorting/clearing, Elderly moves, Home sale preparation, Yard sale setup. 320-237-0602.

THE CLEANING LADY. Spring Cleaning time is here, let’s clean out the clutter!

Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just once. Linda K. 720-841-7505 or 970-263-7364.

15th of Each Month HOME SERVICES AMBER’S HOUSE CLEANING, LLC. Here making an honest living to help make your life easier. Licensed and insured. References available. Mesa County, 985-8178.

KETTLE ELECTRIC New construction, remodeling, inspections, and troubleshooting. Reasonable prices.

970-241-4825.

SERVICES Hair on Wheels at your door.

Barbering, haircuts, color, all your hair needs. Senior Discounts. Call Melodie 970-201-0267.

SMITH’S HANDYMAN SERVICES, LLC Locally owned business, providing your home care needs. No job to small, licensed, and insured. 970309-9338

YES! I want to subscribe. name

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SERVICES

SERVICES

Pat's Hair Salon & Ceramics

SENIOR BEAUTY SPECIAL. First-time clients receive $10 off single service, $15 off cut and color packages.

Regan’s Regal Beauty, 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction. Call Regan to schedule: 719-425-0543

All Hair Salon Services Available

Great Prices on Perms Senior Discounts

CERAMIC & PORCELAIN DOLL MAKING CLASSES & SUPPLIES

970-778-8075 COMPUTER LADY, LLC. In-home repair. 20 years serving Mesa County. Windows, Internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction.

Dependable, reasonable, qualified.

Remote services available. www.

CompLady.com or 970-255-1216.

PROFESSIONAL TAX SERVICES AT MESA MALL Professional Tax Services with TaxPros at the Mesa Mall next to Cabela’s. Come in or give us a call for an obligation-free consultation today! 970-340-8166.

Cleaning, shopping and transportation services! 20 year’s experience.

References. Serving Grand Junction area. Call 406-899-2586.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR Days in Montrose and Grand Junction. Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting.

Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visit www. healthychoicesunltd.com.

50,000 BEACON FANS CAN’T BE WRONG!

BEACON Senior News is THE VOICE of Boomers and Seniors in Western Colorado IN PRINT

Monthly Magazine

Serving Mesa, Delta & Montrose Counties

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

Large print. Special orders. 970-2423911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sunday. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

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Puzzle Answers

Grand Junction

April 2023 Montrose & Delta

Sept. 15, 2022 & ONLINE

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57

OPINION

Will family doctors become extinct?

By Sally C. Pipes

F Family Health West was built from the ground up by our community – settled with health and prosperity in mind.

Today, we look forward to the future, approaching new horizons in healthcare while taking forward that same spirit of dreaming to create a beautiful tomorrow we all believe is possible.

FHW.org/Rose

Sometimes we all need a little help caring for a loved one

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care Hilltop’s Senior Daybreak is a unique day program that keeps seniors with memory loss safe and active while providing their caregivers the flexibility and support they need to care for their loved ones at home. We also offer valuable information and support groups specifically designed for those caring for someone affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Call (970) 241-7798 seniordaybreak.org L O C A L L Y

O W N E D

A N D

58 | OPINION | MAY 2022 |

O P E R A T E D

B Y

H I L L T O P

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

acing declining revenue prospects, physicians are shuttering their private, independent practices to join up with larger hospitals that have near-monopolies on care in the regions they serve.

This trend is depressing news for Americans. Further concentration of market power in these health systems ultimately results in less personalized care for patients—and higher overall costs.

Over the past 20 years, Medicare physician pay has increased 11 percent. The overhead costs of operating an independent medical practice, on the other hand, has jumped nearly 40 percent. Factoring in inflation, Medicare physician pay has dropped roughly 20 percent in the past two decades.

Clearly, those who remain in the sector aren’t in it for the money.

For many independent physicians, not even a miracle could make this business model sustainable. Perhaps that’s why 2020 marked the first year independent physicians accounted for fewer than half of all practicing doctors in the U.S., according to a survey from the American Medical Association (AMA).

Physicians closing up shop short of retirement typically go to work at larger hospital systems, many of which enjoy a monopoly on health care services in their catchment area. According to the AMA report, the number of physicians employed at hospitals increased roughly 50 percent between 2012 and 2020.

In addition to poaching physicians, hospital systems are acquiring private practices outright. AMA data show that between 2012 and 2020, the share of doctors working at a

private practice that was at least partially owned by a larger hospital system grew nearly 40 percent.

And as the AMA survey notes, the majority of doctors employed by hospitals are under the age of 40. That suggests this trend will continue over the long term.

Many younger doctors prefer the more regular hours that hospitals offer, as well as a fixed salary.

Nevertheless, the shift away from private, independent care towards corporate mega-providers should alarm patients and policymakers.

For starters, care will become more expensive as hospitals expand their regional monopolies.

As health systems grow, they gain undue leverage with insurance providers to propose service-price hikes. One study in the Journal of Health Economics found that prices for physician services rose nearly 15 percent at practices acquired by hospitals between 2007 and 2013.

Without competition from independent practices, hospitals have little need to keep a lid on prices. They can effectively charge patients and their insurers whatever they want to.

Diminishing quality of care is another concern. Physician pay within a hospital system is determined in part by how many patients each doctor can treat, assembly-line style.

So much for patient-centered care.

We’re witnessing a historic shift in the practice of medicine in the U.S. And it isn’t an edifying spectacle, especially if you’re a patient in need of medical care that is humane, attentive, and not delivered on a conveyor belt. ■

Sally Pipes is president, CEO and Thomas W. Smith fellow in health care policy at the Pacific Research Institute. Her latest book is “False Premise, False Promise: The Disastrous Reality of Medicare for All” (Encounter 2020).

Celebrating each life, beautifully and affordably.

Dedicated to providing personal, compassionate care and attention

MARTIN

CALLAHAN-EDFAST

MORTUARY & CREMATORY GRAND JUNCTION

MORTUARY & CREMATORY GRAND JUNCTION

970-243-1538

970-243-2450

B e i n s p i r e d , f u l f i l l e d , h a p p y, c o n n e c t e d . . .

B ec o m e a h o p e w e s t vo l u n t e e r !

HopeWest Volunteer Fair Thursday, May 12 • 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Ferris Care Center, Room 102 3090 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction

We’re growing our team and would love for you to join us. Whatever you love to do, we are sure to find a spot for you! Stop by to discover all the volunteer opportunities at HopeWest including patient support, special events, Heirlooms for Hospice, administrative, gardening, baking and more.

Discover all the volunteer opportunties at HopeWest and learn more by scanning the QR code!

HopeWestCO.org • (970) 257-2376