June 2023 - Beacon Senior News

Most women can survive breast and cervical cancer… if found early This could

Women’s Wellness Connection is a statewide program that focuses on early detection and prevention of breast and cervical cancer. This is important for all women because when cancer is caught early, it’s easiest to treat and defeat. In fact, nearly all women can survive breast and cervical cancer when it’s found early!

In this Q&A, Montrose Health Women’s Health Navigator Rachel Jacques talks to women about the importance of getting routine exams and screenings for breast cancer and cervical cancer, and how she can help them overcome barriers to care.

Who is this program for?

You have to be a woman between the ages of 21 to 64. You can be uninsured or underinsured, which means you have a super-high deductible or co-pay for an office visit that you can’t afford. Once you qualify for the program, the program is free to you from your first office visit to diagnosis.

What tests/screenings are included?

We focus on HPV (Human papillomavirus infection), Pap tests and mammograms.

• A Pap test (also called a Pap smear) looks for precancers that could become cervical cancer if not treated. Women should start this screening at age 21 and is recommended every 3 to 5 years.

• An HPV test checks for DNA or RNA of cells to see if women have a high-risk HPV infection that can cause cervical cancer.

An HPV test is recommended every 3 to 5 years.

• Mammogram is often a 2-D screening tool that uses X-rays to create images of the breast. For women with dense breast tissue, we offer a 3-D True Breast Tomosynthesis. It’s recommended that women of average risk for breast cancer start this screening at age 45 and receive an exam every 1 to 2 years.

A lot of women don’t know about HPV. Why is this particular test critical for all women, especially seniors?

Due to being slow-growing, cervical cancer can affect women of any age, even if they are no longer sexually active. Pap tests are very ingrained in women to receive, but HPV is the number one cause of cervical cancer, so if we aren’t doing that specific test it’s going to get missed until there are symptoms. HPV can take 10 to 20 years to develop.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Irregular spotting, light bleeding between periods, change in discharge, foul-smelling discharge. Anything irregular. It’s recommended women start this screening at age 25.

Why are you so interested in women’s health and why do you feel Women’s Wellness Connection is so important?

I want women to be empowered to ask for these screenings. Once we feel responsibility and empowerment over our bodies, that translates into every other aspect of our life.

The fact that cancer is on both sides of my family, and I didn’t know the signs and symptoms made me passionate about continuing to do these check-ups. I can do a self-breast exam, but it’s so much better to have a 2-D or 3-D exam for a baseline. It’s a few minutes of being uncomfortable, which is so much better than finding out you have cancer.

Your position helps women overcome hurdles that may arise when scheduling these screenings. What are some of those hurdles?

It could be financial; it could be help with travel, dependent care or language translation. It could be as basic as getting education on what the signs and symptoms are and what tests they should get. I can also provide emotional support if we do have an abnormal test or cancer diagnosis.

If an abnormal test occurs, does the program help cover follow-ups?

For those who qualify for our program, it pays for all of it. We will pay for all the appointments—pathology through diagnoses. If we get to the point of diagnosing cancer and you need help enrolling in insurance or navigating through the insurance you have, I can help with that.

How can people get in touch with you?

Don’t wait to address the elephant in the room. Schedule screenings for cervical and breast cancer today. To see how Rachel can help you, contact her at 970-252-2893 or email her at hercheckup@montrosehealth. com.

Rachel covers Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties, but Women’s Wellness Connection is offered statewide. Find a clinic nearest you at cdphe.colorado.gov/wwc

Rachel Jacques Women’s Health Navigator (970) 252-2893

save your life or the life of a loved one

Due to being slow-growing, cervical cancer can affect women of any age, even if they are no longer sexually active.

Advertising Director

8 COVER STORY

Learning for the Thrill of It

Explore learning adventures across the globe with Road Scholar

Fighting Back Against Parkinson’s disease

Boxing fitness program helps Delta seniors manage symptoms

24 12 Must-Pack OTC Medications & Supplements

Packing these can prevent or alleviate many travel-related health issues so you can focus on enjoying your trip

30 “Our Hotcakes are Selling Like Ford Mustangs!”

A look back on America’s first practical sports car

32

Brittney Bade Justin Bowen

Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 Phone: 970-243-8829

12 Recipe: Harvest Bowl Salad

Make good fats a part of your next trip to the grocery store with this avocado-inspired salad

13 Mom Never Used to Swear

Knowing how the brain works with Alzheimer’s disease is important to understanding your mom’s potty mouth

14 LADIES! Help Him Stay Healthy With These Healthful Hints

Among the roles you take on as a spouse, research says you’re also likely the gatekeeper to your hubby’s health

20 Father’s Day Quiz

How much do you know about this June tradition? Take this quiz

7 Hacks for Fun, Stress-Free Road Travel with Grandkids

And 15 grandkid-friendly travel destinations (that aren’t the aquarium or the zoo)

34 Frustrated with Texting? Use this handy smartphone feature instead

36 Faith: Does God Speak to Us?

Neither you nor I are in a position to judge; but what John writes in the chapters of Revelation was not a vague impression open to interpretation

38 Long-Term Care Insurance: Yes, No, Maybe?

Before purchasing a policy, consider the pros, cons and alternatives

The Best Ways to Conserve Water in Your Garden

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Bitten by the travel bug?

Ididn’t travel much growing up. Not because my parents weren’t interested—they just didn’t have the means. Plus, I hear that kids can be expensive and they had three of them, plus two others from my father’s previous marriage.

About the only trips I remember taking were to visit my grandparents in Oklahoma, which was just three hours from my home in Dallas, Texas. My grandparents lived in a small town, but we always found something fun to do, and no matter how often we visited, each time it felt like we’d traveled half-way across the world to get there (because three hours feels like FOREVER for little kids).

You could say I was a bit sheltered. Before moving to Colorado, I’d only ever been to two states (Texas and Oklahoma), and I’m pretty sure I was in high school before I ever made it across state lines into Utah.

But as soon as I grew up and moved out of my parents’ house, the travel bug bit me. As a young adult with limited income, my early trips were to the hot springs in Glenwood, or to Denver for concerts and theatre productions. In a few years, I took my first plane ride to Las Vegas and then Los Angeles because my friends and I found cheap flights. Because for $100 tickets, why wouldn’t we go?

I know many travelers who think the same way. Especially when you’re retired and traveling with a group like Road Scholar, I’m sure it’s even harder to say no.

In this month’s cover story, we hear from two solo travelers talk about their experiences with Road Scholar and how easy (and inexpensive) it is for older adults to participate in these one-of-a-kind adventures.

And if you plan to travel this year, we have a list of “must-pack” medicines and supplements to prepare you for many travel-related health issues so you can focus on enjoying your trip (page 24).

ROADTRIPPING WITH GRANDKIDS?

Since my grandparents didn’t live too far away, sometimes we’d take family adventures together. I remember my sisters and I piling into their spacious conversion van (which had purple interior) and arguing over what movie we’d watch next on the built-in VHS or DVD player as they drove along.

If this reminds you of traveling with your own grandkids, then see pages 32-33 for some pretrip planning advice.

REMEMBER SUN SAFETY

No matter what your summer plans are, if you and your grandkids are planning on spending time outside, remember to wear and reapply plenty of sunscreen, and wear sunglasses and hats when possible. ■

WHAT’S YOUR BEAT? WE’RE HIRING WRITERS AND JOURNALISTS

BEACON Senior News is looking for freelance writers and journalists that love talking to Western Colorado seniors and sharing the stories that directly impact them.

We welcome writers interested in a variety of topics, but we have an immediate need for those who like to:

• Learn and write about local businesses

• Research local history

• Investigate common scams

Email us your writing samples. No phone calls, please.

I attended my first BeaconFest in April. The music was fun and diverse, the introduction to volunteer opportunities superb, and the inclusion of public safety organizations spot on. It would be nice to see additional active living exhibitors (exercise/social clubs, lifelong learning, healthy lifestyle promotion) to complement the number of senior-transition exhibitors. Thanks for all the work you do on behalf of seniors.

- Bernice P.

Editor’s Column (May)

I could get all mushy about how great it is that you connect so well and meaningfully with the senior community, along with how important it is that you give voice to and value their experience and wisdom. Your position and approach helps many in this audience age well and encourages them to make the most of this treasured span of time, allowing for growth and contribution. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart.

- Stacey R.

Get your pickleball game on (May)

Thank you for the very positive article. You really did a terrific job and encompassed a lot of research and different people and experiences. I was pleasantly surprised to see my picture on the cover. I feel like a celebrity.

- Eileen E

Do all dogs go to heaven? (May)

If they don’t go to heaven, then I’m not going! I want to be with my beloved dogs throughout eternity.

- Carol M.

Mother’s Day Quiz (May)

Thank you for the quiz! Question #10 appears to be switched a bit. It should read: What famous musician was born to an unwed teenage mother and raised believing his mother was his older sister and his grandparents his parents? The BEACON’s layout and articles are always excellent, so thank you!

- Sandi C.

Learning Adventures Across the Globe

Experience the world with Road Scholar’s enriching trips for seniors

You’ve probably heard of road warriors— harried business people who are constantly traveling for work. That doesn’t sound like much fun, does it? But for seniors traveling with Road Scholar, it’s possible to live it up and learn while seeing the world.

Montrose residents Mabel Risch and Beverly Wilson have each traveled with Road Scholar 17 times since the early 2000s. Formerly known as Elderhostel, the nonprofit group travel company is the world’s largest and most innovative creator of experiential learning opportunities, guiding generations of lifelong learners from San Francisco to Siberia, and nearly everywhere in between.

“Road Scholar is a great way to travel. I get to see the world and experience cultures I wouldn’t normally get to see,” said Risch, 78.

One of Risch’s “more interesting trips” was when her group was hosted by a small village off the coast of Greenland. The stop wasn’t part of the original trip itinerary—the community agreed to host them for a few hours when the captain of the group’s small ship couldn’t reach the destination port because of icebergs blocking the way.

“The ship’s crew thought that there’d be about 50-60 people in this village. It turns out there was less than 20,” said Risch.

Risch and her fellow travelers toured the village to see how the people lived, then went back to the ship, where the crew had invited the villagers on board, treating them to drinks and tours of the ship.

“It was a wonderful experience,” said Risch.

By Leanne Goebel

ONE-OF-A-KIND ADVENTURES

Planned or unplanned, these types of experiences come with every Road Scholar trip. The organization stays true to the idea behind its founding in 1975, inspiring older adults to learn, discover and travel.

“I learn something on every trip,” said Risch. “They have really good [trip] leaders who are knowledgeable about the area.”

Road Scholar offers 5,500 learning adventures in 150 countries and all 50 states. Historians, scholars and local experts offer insider access to experiences not available to the independent traveler. In Yellowstone, Risch’s group toured the area with a naturalist, and a train trip on the East Coast had railroad historians telling stories of floods that destroyed train yards. On a trip to the Grand Canyon, her group had permission from a local Native American tribe to use a road on reservation land to drive into the bottom of the canyon.

While there’s no minimum age to travel with Road Scholar, most lifelong learners are over age 50. However, the organization offers grandpar-

Mabel Risch stands in front of a geyser in Yellowstone National Park.

ent or skip-gen programs for grandparents and grandchildren to travel and learn together, along with family programs for three generations to make memories.

“I like the content of their itineraries. You know exactly what you’re getting into,” said Wilson, 79.

Wilson said Road Scholar is very clear about the activity level of each trip. Itineraries labeled as “easy going” usually require minimal walking and few stairs while “outdoor challenging” includes physical challenges over steep terrain. Some of the in-between levels require participants to be “on their feet” or on the move via metropolitan streets or public transit. There are varying degrees of outdoor adventures as well.

Road Scholar programs are all-inclusive. Expert-led lectures, field trips, lodging, most meals, gratuities and group transportation are all included. They can even handle airfare for some international trips.

“They make all of the arrangements,” said Risch. “I don’t have to worry about a hotel or finding a tour guide. It’s real comfortable as a single person.”

TRAVELING SOLO

Both Risch and Wilson are solo travelers; however, Wilson brought her friend, Montrose resident Sandy Shalley, on her most recent trip through the French Canal.

Numerous recent studies show that solo travel is on the rise, especially among females. With Road Scholar, almost 70% of travelers are women, and 30% of travelers go solo, with 80% of the solos being women.

“My mother never traveled because of her life circumstances,” said Risch, a single woman with no kids. “I decided early on that I couldn’t wait around for other people to make up their minds. If I was really going to really travel, I’d have to be willing to do it by myself.”

And she hasn’t regretted it one bit.

But traveling solo doesn’t have to mean traveling alone. Road Schol ar’s trips provide opportunities for connection with like-minded

travelers, which can turn into lifelong friendships. “I have a friend in Vermont who I met on the trip to Grand Canyon. We’ve stayed in touch and signed up for the same trips through Road Scholar,” said Risch.

Group travel doesn’t mean you’re tied at the hip either. Risch said Road Scholar schedules in plenty of free time for self-exploration or leisure.

“On a trip to Disney World in Orlando—not my favorite trip, by the way—another woman and I found a nice spot in a hotel where we had wine, looked at the gardens and had nice conversation,” she said.

Risch has traveled the world outside of Road Scholar, but the retired social worker keeps coming back because of the educational opportunities and affordability of the trips, especially for single travelers.

In many cases outside of Road Scholar, traveling solo means paying extra fees for the luxury of your own room. On some cruise ships or resorts, that can even double the price! But when you travel with Road Scholar, you have options to avoid those fees, whether it be teaming up with a roommate or paying a small additional charge. Some programs even offer single rooms with no extra charge!

“You may pay extra with Road Scholar, but you don’t pay double,” said Risch, who usually opts for her own room.

While Risch doesn’t currently have any Road Scholar trips on the books, she’s keeping an eye out for any trips to New Zealand, the Great Lakes, or even up Canada’s east coast.

“I love nature, so I’m not interested in New York City,” said Risch. “Road Scholar makes everything so easy. I can’t imagine doing tours with any other group.”

In addition to taking care of every trip detail, Road Scholar offers travelers peace of mind with its Road Scholar Assurance Plan. The plan, provided to travelers at no extra cost, provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency, offering emergency medical evacuation; medical escort; assistance with lost or delayed baggage; lost, stolen or damaged baggage insurance; baggage delay insurance and more.

“Road Scholar is so trustworthy. I’ve never had a problem and have seen how they solve problems for others,” said Wilson. ■

WANT TO GO?

ROAD SCHOLAR IS A GREAT WAY TO TRAVEL. I GET TO SEE THE WORLD AND EXPERIENCE CULTURES I WOULDN’T NORMALLY GET TO SEE.

Fighting back

Boxing-style program helps Delta seniors manage symptoms against Parkinson’s

By April Fitzgerald

“I’mgonna be mean now!”

Jan Blue’s sweet and encouraging voice rang out at Anytime Fitness in Delta. “One-minute wall sit!”

With little resistance, the 11 members of her Rock Steady Boxing class willingly complied— according to their varying abilities. Some members performed the exercise much like Blue—forming two right angles, one at the hips and one at the knees—and others participated from their chairs.

Volunteers Myrna Griffin and Nancy Eisenbud engaged while keenly aware of everyone around them, ready to provide support should anyone falter.

Blue’s exercise class is specially designed for people with Parkinson’s disease, an incurable brain disorder that causes tremors and muscle stiffness, slowing movements and impairing balance and coordination. The class incorporates everything from simple stretches and yoga to weight lifting—and of course, boxing.

ROCK STEADY

Blue’s husband, Charlie Farrell, 69, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013. The couple didn’t notice his symptoms at first until two events clued them in.

The first was at a high school reunion when someone had asked if Farrell had a stroke. Not long afterward, their grandson asked, “Papa, why are you so slow?”

Farrell eventually sought medical attention for a tremor in his tongue. Previously, he’d been a frequent speaker at church.

“He was an excellent speaker,” said Blue, “but he just can’t do that anymore.”

Farrell’s diagnosis altered his and Blue’s life together in many ways, but educating themselves about the disease helped them navigate its symptoms.

“I guess we spent a lot of time

kind of mad at first. I wasn’t understanding why he didn’t want to do some of the things we used to do together,” said Blue. “We had to learn about Parkinson’s s in order to figure out how we were supposed to respond to this.”

They saw a segment about Rock Steady Boxing on “60 Minutes.” Then while wintering in California in 2017, they found a class in Palm Springs. It was a 200-mile round trip trek for them, but Blue noticed that Farrell got much stronger and his voice improved. They were so impressed that they traveled to the nonprofit’s headquarters in Indianapolis and became affiliates so they could host a class at home in Delta.

“We never wanted to be the coaches, but no one else was interested,” said Blue, so she and Farrell became certified coaches and

began classes in May 2017.

USE IT, DON’T LOSE IT

Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-11 a.m. at Anytime Fitness in Delta. They’re free of charge, but participants have to become members of Anytime Fitness. Memberships are usually covered by SilverSneakers.

“There’s the old saying, ‘Use it or lose it.’ If you don’t use it, especially with Parkinson’s, you’re gonna lose it,” said Leonard Kubin, 69.

He added that the class addresses different issues, so participants don’t lose any of “it”.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, an estimated 1 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease.

According to Rock Steady Boxing’s website, “Continuous, intensive training…emphasizing gross motor movement, balance, core strength, rhythm and hand-eye coordination can favorably impact range of motion, flexibility, posture, gait and activities of daily living.”

The variety of exercises can

Jan Blue and Charlie Farrell coach Rock Steady Boxing classes for those with Parkinson’s disease at Anytime Fitness in Delta.

Wayne Austin of Eckert and Coach Jan

Nick Hoppner of Montrose is also a Rock Steady Boxing Coach

protect and potentially even heal the brain, slowing the progression of Parkinson’s.

“I know that if I didn’t commit to coming here, I would start going downhill faster,” said Wayne Austin, 75. “For me, it’s been a real blessing.”

Deann Thomas, another certified Rock Steady coach and a retired physical therapist, said she is pleased with the program’s ability to offer solutions for those with Parkinson’s.

“The class addresses so many things all at once in a non-clinical, fun atmosphere,” she said. “Participants are not guarded. It’s just a fun time. It’s really inspired me.”

Les Renfrow recently had a knee replacement, but he still participates in a modified capacity.

“It’s tiring, but good,” said Renfrow, 74.

JOIN A CLASS

Blue encourages anyone with Parkinson’s to come watch a class.

“It can be a very lonely disease,” she said. “That’s one of the reasons that I love class so much.”

Participants appreciate the physical benefits of the class, but they thrive on social connections.

“We joke a lot, and people share issues and problems,” said Doris McGuire, 72. “Not only do we get exercise which is really important, but the companionship and the camaraderie really help.”

Wayne Carlton, 79, said he didn’t want to go to class at first

despite friends’ encouragement, but when he opened the door and saw the number of smiling faces, he felt at ease.

“Your life would be a lot lonelier if you didn’t have people like this,” he said.

Nick Hoppner, 79, added, “This is a critically important group of people to me. They always have a cheerful word.”

Volunteers are essential to the program according to Farrell. Volunteers help by timing exercises, handing out equipment and helping participants with mobility.

Eisenbud, who has volunteered for five years, said it helps her just as much as it helps participants.

“There’s teamwork going on here, which is very inspiring,” she said. ■

Rock Steady Boxing

meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-11 a.m. at Anytime Fitness, 300 Stafford Lane in Delta. For information about participating or volunteering, contact Blue at 210-415-4550. A signed physician release form must be returned prior to the first class.

There is also a class in Fruita. Contact Kara Griffith at 970858-2502 for more information.

Parkinson’s Support Groups

Montrose Regional Health

1-2:30 p.m. | Last Mondays | Call 970-252-2996

Les Renfrow, Wayne Carlton, volunteer Nancy Eisenbud and Charlie Farrell go through some of the exercises at Delta’s Anytime Fitness.

Harvest Bowl Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Recipe courtesy of AvocadosFromMexico.com

Servings: 8

Ingredients

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1/2 Avocado From Mexico, diced

1 tablespoon avocado oil

2 tablespoons shallots, minced

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

3 tablespoons water

Salad:

2 Avocados From Mexico, diced

2 sweet potatoes, roasted and diced

2 cups quinoa, cooked

2 cups arugula

2 cups kale

1 cup Brussels sprouts petals, roasted

2 Honeycrisp apples, diced

2 tablespoons roasted pecans, unsalted

2 tablespoons roasted pepitas, unsalted

2 tablespoons dried cranberries

Directions:

To make balsamic vinaigrette: In food processor, process avocado, avocado oil, shallots, dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey and water to smooth consistency. Set aside.

To make salad:

In large bowl, combine avocados, sweet potatoes, quinoa, arugula, kale, Brussels sprouts petals, apples, pecans, pepitas and dried cranberries. Pour balsamic vinaigrette over salad mixture.

Toss salad to coat. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. ■

Mom never used to swear Understanding her bad behavior

Dear Laird: I have been my mother’s caregiver for about five years. She has Alzheimer’s. It hasn’t been particularly difficult until recently. A couple of months ago my mother’s personality changed—I mean really changed. She was always a sweet lady with never a harsh word for anyone. But now, she has become a regular potty mouth. She curses at me and at my sister when she comes over. Anyone who comes to the house gets a flood of bad words. The other day, she used the F word in a restaurant. I am totally baffled and upset. Signed, Cynthia

Dear Cynthia: It is really upsetting when a loved one behaves way out of character. Besides the shock of unacceptable behavior, the change is so radical that we can’t believe it.

You might have thought your mom would always be herself in spite of the disease. But now it seems she is not. That can trigger anger, embarrassment, loss and feelings of grief.

Our brains have several specialized parts. Each involves a unique function. Dementia attacks each part in a different order and in separate ways. The right and left sides work together on language. The right side manages automatic speech, like for emergencies and strong emotions––“Look out!” and “Damn!” The left side of the brain controls formal language. It sets up a filter for situations where automatic words may offend, and it even substitutes softer words when needed.

Here’s why understanding how the brain handles language is important: Dementia degrades and destroys the left side of the brain first. When the filters are gone, inappropriate words come out. You cannot change her. However, you can respond in ways that are helpful to you both.

First, accept that it is the dis-

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

BY LAIRD LANDON, PhD

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S GOLF SCRAMBLE

Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 8:00AM

ease and you can’t fix her swearing. Second, understand that swearing means she is confused, tired, frustrated or afraid. She has forgotten how to tell you things, so she swears. Ask her what’s wrong and coach her to express her feelings.

Third, redirect her to a calmer emotional place. The brain’s right side also controls music and singing. Play her favorite tunes, sing along with her, start a conversation about why the tunes are memorable. She will be happy. She will be using her long-term memory. This is called reminiscence therapy.

I hope you will reflect on how these changes in your mom affect you. Let yourself think about what this change means to you both. Further, please realize there will be more changes to come, and they will be hard to accept as well. You will be there for her out of love and you will be able to contend with the pain. It is hard, but it is also one of most selfless things you have ever done. ■

Chipeta Golf Course

Registration includes swag bag, 18 holes, lunch, raffle & more

Sponsorship Opportunities Available Call (970) 640-7416 for more information

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

LADIES! Help him stay healthy with these healthful hints

By Sandra Gordon

Among the roles you take on as a spouse or partner, such as co-bread winner and household CEO, guess what? You’re the health gatekeeper too. You’re the one who oversees your guy’s health choices and decisions.

A recent University of Chicago study, for example, found that older married men were 20% more likely to get a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer in the past five years compared to men who were single. That went up 40% if men were happily married and their wives had high levels of education.

The researchers concluded that women’s health decisions influence their partners, especially if men

view their wives as supportive. In other words, nagging—in a nice way—can be healthy.

What you can do to help your guy take good care of himself? Drop these healthful hints.

“When is the last time you had a check-up?”

Once men hit age 18 and they stop having yearly check-ups at the pediatrician, many don’t see a doctor again until their 50s, when prostate problems may start to become an issue or when they have a health crisis, such as a heart attack. That’s a missed opportunity for prevention.

Even if your guy feels fine, he should see the doctor regularly. Check-ups can catch something ear-

ly, even before symptoms show up, such as diabetes or pre-diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 29 million Americans have diabetes, but 1 in 4 don’t know because they haven’t been tested (a fasting blood test at the doctor’s office can detect it). Because men tend to have less contact with the medical system, they’re especially at risk.

“If you catch and treat diabetes earlier, it’s easier to control,” said Dr. Carl Butch.

An early diagnosis can also reduce the risk of common diabetes complications, such as blindness.

“Let’s check out your risk for heart attack.”

Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the U.S. One out of every four deaths is heart disease related.

To help your man reduce his risk, suggest that he calculate his 10-year risk of heart disease or stroke with the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Heart Risk Calculator (find it at BeaconSeniorNews.com). He can plug in his total and LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol and blood pressure numbers among other data.

“Your risk score can be a powerful motivator,” said Butch, who uses the cardiovascular calculator app

regularly with his patients.

If your guy’s risk of having a cardiovascular event is at least 20%, he’s in the high-risk category. Urge him to do what he can to reduce it.

Use the calculator to see how his percent changes if he quits smoking, for example, or loses 10 pounds.

“Every five percent drop is significant,” said Butch.

“Maybe you should see a urologist.”

Like gynecologists for women, urologists are a part of a comprehensive strategy for men for health maintenance and prevention. Urologists treat everything from urinary tract infections and male factor infertility to erectile dysfunction and hormonal imbalances, as well as prostate cancer.

“Because we manage very personal things, I like to have the opportunity to establish a relationship with patients so they can feel comfortable coming to me with certain issues that might get ignored, such as getting up more often to urinate,” said urologist Philip Dorsey, Jr., MD.

Men over 40 should see a urologist to get their prostate checked, particularly if they are at increased risk for prostate cancer, which will affect about one in seven men during his lifetime.

The American Urologic Association (AUA) recommends that men age 55 to 69 discuss protein specific antigen (PSA) screening—a blood test that can help determine a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer—with their doctor and decide together what’s right for them.

“PSA testing needs to be a discussion men have with their urologist so they can understand the benefits and potential shortcomings based on their situation,” said Dr. Dorsey.

Because prostate cancer tends to run in families, Dorsey recommends early PSA screening for men with one or more family members or a family member diagnosed with prostate cancer before 65. ■

Know Your Numbers

Here’s a check-up checklist to make sure your guy gets the information he needs to monitor his health status.

Blood cholesterol: To get accurate blood cholesterol results—LDL, HDL (the “good” cholesterol), triglycerides and total cholesterol—your guy will need to fast, typically for nine to 12 hours before his cholesterol test. That means no eating and drinking, other than water, after midnight. Targets: Less than 200 for total cholesterol, less than 100 for LDL and over 40 HDL and less than 150 for triglycerides.

Blood pressure: 120/80 is considered normal.

Fasting blood glucose: 70 to 99. If your guy has been diagnosed with diabetes, his HbA1c (average blood sugar over two to three months) should be less than 7%.

Waist circumference. Less than 40 inches (men) is optimal.

Body mass index (BMI): 18.6 to 24.9 is ideal.

These health numbers are important to track. Your guy can use them to monitor his health from year to year and stay motivated to take care of himself by, for example, eating a plant-based diet, losing weight if he needs to, and exercising regularly.

For more information about preventive tests for adults, visit healthcare.gov/preventivecare-adults

Check out our Lifestyle Conversions

When it comes to choosing a vehicle for a loved one in a wheelchair, there are more options than just minivans.

At Mobility Driven, we are devoted to providing the highest quality service in a personalized manner. Part of that service includes our Lifestyle Conversions.

Mobility Driven adapts several types of motorsports vehicles for people with high-level injuries, limited mobility and different kinds of disabilities. We convert RVs and camper vans so you can get out and enjoy all the outdoor activities the Western Slope has to offer.

Check out more photos and videos of our Lifestyle Conversions on our website and Facebook.

Be happy in your own skin 6 treatments to minimize scars

Scars can be beautiful because they tell a story about a chapter in our life. They’re part of our journey. But what if you don’t want that story to be told so boldly?

There are treatments to minimize scars. Always ask your doctor before applying topical treatments to a wound because it depends on how it has healed.

Here are the six best ways to minimize scarring:

■ Carrot seed essential oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties and contains incredibly powerful antioxidants. This oil can be applied topically to help with scarring and dark spots.

■ Frankincense oil minimizes inflammation. Using it while a wound is relatively new may potentially prevent any scarring at all. If using this oil with an existing or healing scar, you’ll likely notice the scar fade some.

■ Massaging improves blood flow, which in turn promotes pliability and reduces inflammation. After my husband’s knee replacement, I gently massaged around the area and the back of his knee to reduce his risk of arthrofibrosis. Do not massage around the scar too soon as the pressure and kneading could reopen the wound!

■ Vitamin C helps minimize raised scar formations and acts as a brightening agent. In a matter of months, you might notice some fading. Citrus fruits are high in vitamin

DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN

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

C, however supplements are better since you get a higher consistent dose.

■ Bromelain is a supplement derived from pineapples. It is a digestive enzyme that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. It will help reduce pain and swelling if taken orally after a surgical procedure. Bromelain breaks down fibrins, which prevents clotting and improves circulation. Its enzymes essentially dissolve the fibrin, thereby reducing the hard tissue surrounding a scar, allowing it to heal and repair itself.

■ Silicone scar bandages are great to put on a spot that needs to remain flexible like your neck, knee or finger. The silicone sheet bandages protect the vulnerable tissue from getting scratched or nicked, and it reduces itching. These silicone gel sheets might even affect a well-healed scar that’s a year or older.

Not all scars are the same, but it doesn’t hurt to give these options a try. If you feel happier in your own skin, it’s worth it! ■

How to spot skin cancer

Look for anything new, changing or unusual on your skin of a friend or family member.”

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world. But the good news is it’s also the cancer you can actually see on your body.

By learning to recognize the warning signs of the disease, you can identify suspicious spots before they become dangerous. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when diagnosed at an early stage, but if left to grow, they can become disfiguring or even deadly. This is why early detection is so important.

“I’ve had many patients point to something they found on their skin and ask, ‘What’s that?’” said Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Sometimes it was a person’s partner who pushed them to get a spot checked out. We all have the power to speak up about a suspicious lesion on our own body or the skin

WHAT’S YOUR RISK?

One in five Americans will get skin cancer by age 70.

Anyone can get skin cancer regardless of race, ethnicity or skin tone, but some people are at higher risk than others. People with very fair skin are extremely susceptible to skin damage as well as to skin cancers. People with dark skin tones are generally less vulnerable to UV damage because of the type of melanin darker skin produces, and how it is distributed. However, when they do develop skin cancer, it tends to be found at a more advanced and dangerous stage.

Other risk factors for skin cancer include a history of sunburns, a history of tanning (outside or in a tanning bed) and a family or per-

sonal history of skin cancer.

HOW TO SPOT POTENTIAL SKIN CANCERS

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you perform a head-to-toe self-exam every month to look for potential skin cancers. Some things to look for include a growth that changes in size, thickness, color or texture. Skin cancers can appear pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black or multicolored. You should also pay attention to any sore or spot that continues to itch, hurt, crust or bleed, or spots that are slow to heal.

The Ugly Duckling rule is something else to keep in mind during a self-exam. The rule is based on the concept that normal moles on the body resemble each other, while melanoma (a dangerous form of

skin cancer) can stand out like an ugly duckling. These lesions can be larger, smaller, lighter or darker in contrast to surrounding moles. Isolated lesions without surrounding moles for comparison are also considered ugly ducklings.

Since all skin cancers present differently, the most important tip is to be on the lookout for anything new, changing or unusual. If you spot anything suspicious during your self-exam, make an appointment with a dermatologist right away. You can find more information on how to perform a self-exam and how to prepare for an annual exam on at SkinCancer.org ■

DAD JOKES

Submitted by Miles Alexander

How many telemarketers does it take to change a light bulb? Only one, but he has to do it while you are eating dinner.

Why didn’t Han Solo enjoy his steak dinner? It was Chewie.

Why don’t pirates take a bath before they walk the plank? They just wash up on shore.

Did you hear about the guy who froze to death at the drive-in? He went to see Closed for the Winter. I had a happy childhood. My dad used to put me in tires and roll me down hills. Those were Goodyears. What invention allows us to see through walls? Windows.

The bank keeps calling me to give

me compliments. They say I have an “outstanding balance.”

The past, the present and the future walked into a bar. It was tense.

RETIREMENT FUN

Submitted by M L Madsen

The other day my wife and I went downtown to do some shopping. As we headed out to leave, we saw a cop writing a parking ticket. We walked up to him and I said, “Come on man, how about giving a senior citizen a break?" But he ignored us and continued writing the ticket. Then I called him a “butthead.” He just glared at me and started writing another ticket for having worn out tires which really upset my wife, so she called him a “jerk.” He finished writing the second ticket and put it on the windshield

with the first one, then he started writing another ticket. This went on for about 20 minutes. When he finally finished, he sneered at us, shook his head and walked away.

Just then our bus arrived and we headed home. We try to have a little fun each day now that we're retired. It's so important at our age!

MAN OF FEW WORDS

Submitted by Bob Breazeale

A man goes into a flower shop to buy roses for his wife.

“I love a man who loves to say it with flowers. How about three dozen?” the florist asks him.

After seeing the price, the man said, “Make it a half dozen. I’m a man of few words.”

ADVICE FROM ABOVE

Submitted by Bonnie Wright

A keen but unskilled golfer plays the same course every week. He has particular trouble with the water trap on the 14th hole, losing a ball in it every time.

One round he decides that using

good balls is too expensive and decides to use an old cut-up ball instead. He opens his bag and gets the old ball, tees it up and addresses it. Just as he commences his back swing, a mighty voice comes from on high: “Use the new ball.”

He figured any advice from such a source is worth following, so he picks up the old ball and tees up the new one again. He starts his back swing but once again is interrupted by a voice from the sky: “Take a practice swing.”

The man steps away from the ball and rehearses his swing. Just as he steps forward to readdress the ball, the voice speaks again: “Nope, use the old ball.”

HOSPITAL REGULATIONS

Submitted by Ben Kuckel Hospital regulations require a wheelchair for patients to be discharged. A patient was being discharged, so a nurse entered the room to find an elderly gentleman sitting on the bed with a suitcase at his feet.

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The nurse asked him to get in the wheelchair. He responds, “I don’t need a wheelchair. I can walk.”

After a chat about the rules and upon the nurse’s insistence, he reluctantly got into the wheelchair. They took the elevator down and the nurse wheeled him to the main door.

“Is your wife picking you up?” she asked.

He said, “No, she should still be up in the room changing out of her hospital gown in the bathroom.”

NO EXCUSES

Submitted by Bob Breazeale

Professor Johnson is a stickler for punctuality, especially for tests. Anyone not in their seat when the test begins automatically flunks.

Last Monday, the professor returned to his office after giving a test and found four young men waiting. They explained that they had all been at one of their parents’ beach houses all weekend studying. They left in plenty of time to make the test but they had a flat tire. By the time they fixed it, it was too late. They begged the professor for a makeup test.

Professor Johnson agreed to give them a different test at noon. Since that was also his lunch hour, he put each of them in a separate office so they couldn’t see or speak to one another. He handed them each a test that had only one question: Which tire went flat?

DEFECTIVE MIRROR

Submitted by Helen Curtis A woman came into my work wanting to return a mirror. She said the reflection didn’t look like her anymore.

“OLD” IS WHEN…

Submitted by Charlie & Hap Jordan

“Old” is when…your sweetie says, “Let's go upstairs and make love,”

and you answer, “Pick one. I can't do both!”

“Old” is when…your friends compliment you on your new alligator shoes and you’re barefoot.

“Old” is when…a sexy babe or hunk catches your fancy and your pacemaker opens the garage door.

“Old” is when…going braless pulls all the wrinkles out of your face.

“Old” is when…you don't care where your spouse goes, just as long as you don't have to go along.

“Old” is when…you are cautioned to slow down by the doctor instead of by the police.

“Old” is when…“getting a little action” means you don't need to take any fiber today.

“Old” is when…“getting lucky” means you find your car in the parking lot.

“Old” is when…an “all-nighter” means not getting up to use the bathroom.

But, seriously, “old” is when you are not sure if these are actually jokes.

DIDN’T COME FROM APES

Submitted by Jane Quarles

One day when I was out shopping, a striking blue blouse with long sleeves caught my eye. I bought it without trying it on but once I got home, I noticed the sleeves were past my fingertips.

When I showed my boyfriend, I told him, “That proves it!”

He asked, “Proves what?”

“It proves that I didn’t come fom apes like most people think,” I replied.

“How do you know?” he said with a smile.

I showed him my sleeves and said, “Because my arms are too short.” ■

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

Father’s Day Trivia

By Randal Hill

ForSonora Smart Dodd, attend -

ing a Methodist church service in Spokane, Washington, proved to be life-changing. On that particular Sunday in 1909, the minister based his sermon on the newly established Mother’s Day celebration. But Dodd felt that dads, too, should have a special day set aside in their honor. After all, her father was a widowed Civil War veteran who had singlehandedly raised six children, with Sonora being the only girl.

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Dodd spent the next year petitioning her local community and later her state government. Washington state celebrated its first official Father’s Day on June 19, 1910. Over the years, the celebration spread from state to state until President Richard Nixon established a permanent national observance for America’s fathers in 1972.

How much do you know about this June tradition? Try your hand at this multiple-choice quiz.

1. Over the years, the most popular Father’s Day gift has been

a. candy

b. a necktie

c. flowers

d. golf balls

2. The official Father’s Day flower is the _____

a. orchid

b. carnation

c. hibiscus

d. rose

3. What percentage of Americans celebrate Father’s Day?

a. 58%

b. 65%

c. 76%

d. 81%

4. Today’s average age of firsttime fathers is _____

a. 24

b. 26

c. 28

d. 30

5. One in _____ American homes has no father there.

a. three

b. four

c. five

d. six

6. In India, a man became the world’s oldest first-time dad at age _____

a. 83

b. 88

c. 94

d. 96

7. Americans spend ____ less on Father’s Day than they do on Mother’s Day.

a. 25%

b. 29%

c. 32%

d. 38%

8. How many American dads are single?

a. 1 million

b. 2 million

c. 3 million

d. 4 million

9. In “Let’s Make Love” (1960), Marilyn Monroe sings “My Heart Belongs to Daddy.” What is unusual about this?

a. She never knew who her father was.

b. She always hated the song.

c. Her mother forced her to sing it.

d. A professional singer’s voice was used instead.

10. Guinness World Records claims that a Moroccan sultan fathered how many children?

a. 492

b. 687

c. 833

d. 1,042 ■

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“Muttrimony” unites a family

Ozby’s single-dog dare to say “I do too”

By Marti Benson

You might say our daughter was raised by wolves. Or, at least, amid their kin.

When her father and I wed, Erin was 7 years old. Her dad and I each came into the marriage with our own baggage. Kyle’s was in the form of two golden retrievers and a yellow lab. Mine consisted of two smaller pups from a pound in Phoenix. In the ensuing years, we took in an abandoned border collie and a severely injured Pomeranian. Our dogs Chip and Ernie and their mom, Yvette, would enter our lives in Erin’s high school years.

After school, when not at band practice or forensics, Erin was at the vet clinic where I worked. If she wasn’t helping a tech clean kennels or hand-addressing billing statements, she was masked and gowned in surgery. The veterinarians gave her a front-row seat to the cutting and removing and repairing and sewing. The proper names for animals’ anatomy and bodily fluids were freely discussed.

Erin observed the inevitable cycle of life that occurs in an animal hospital. She was on deck when puppies were extracted from their mama’s belly during a c-section. And she witnessed her share of clients grieving after the loss of a beloved pet. Our dinner table discussions were not for the squeamish. And then came college. And Dave.

Erin asked if she could bring a friend to Thanksgiving, as he was unable to get home for the holiday. Having a soft spot for strays, we said, “Of course!” Dave fit into our dog-centric home perfectly, respecting Chip’s boundaries, quaffing from our “WOOF” mug and telling us stories about his own

DAVE WAS OBVIOUSLY FROM A GOOD DOG FAMILY, AND KYLE AND I COULD PICTURE HIM AS PART OF OUR OWN PACK.

family pooch back home, a chocolate lab named Coco. Dave was obviously from a good dog family, and Kyle and I could picture him as part of our own pack.

You know how dogs just suddenly start giddily zooming around the house or the yard with their tongues out and their eyes wide open? That’s how Kyle and I felt when Erin and Dave—and their lab mix, Ozby—got engaged. Ozby even gave his blessing to the union by putting his pawprint on the marriage license.

On May 4, decked out in his Hawaiian-themed bowtie with the wedding rings securely attached to his collar (and fortunately, no squirrels in sight), Ozby trotted down the aisle to greet his human parents and take part in the ceremony. As we all cheered the newlyweds, Ozby joined in. He was the loudest of all!

Out-of-town family and friends are home with their own pets now. Chip and Ernie are rested up from entertaining the human guests. Our daughter, son-in-law and grand-dog have settled back into their daily lives. All is well in this ever-changing puppy pile we call our life. T

The best ways to conserve water in your garden

Water is essential for plant growth, but I see plenty of people get carried away and overwater their crops, doing more harm than good. Not only is water flowing off their gardens, but overwatering can lead to stunted plant growth and disease.

Being the good environmental stewards that we are, knowing how to manage our irrigation is critical. The first step is allowing water to

infiltrate our garden while maximizing the soil’s water-holding capacity.

We can measure our soil’s water-holding capacity by weighing out 100 grams of dry soil and placing it in a coffee filter in a funnel. Slowly wet the soil by adding 50 ml of water, then add another 150 ml. Let the water drain from the funnel into a jar and measure how much water comes out.

If 150 ml of water comes out, the

soil can hold 25% water (50 ml retained divided by 200 ml poured in). Follow these tips to improve your soil and test it again next year.

• In the desert Southwest, it’s common to plant crops in small depressions so when irrigation comes, it is held near the plant. Terracing and swales are also popular ways to keep water in the field by sloping the land into several flat areas or sunken spots.

• Compaction is counterproductive to infiltration, so don’t work in the garden when the soil is wet and never leave equipment in the field for days. If the garden has been rototilled repeatedly, watch out for sub-soil compaction as the irrigation may seep into the topsoil

without reaching the plant roots. Aeration or subsoil tilling with a broadfork may be necessary for better water infiltration.

• Organic matter is king. Compost or aged manure can hold up to twice its weight in water and act like little sponges in your garden.

• Mulch helps, too. Studies show that soil mulched with straw can absorb two to four times the amount of water as bare ground. Additionally, mulch reduces soil crusting and softens the impact of rain or sprinklers so that water more gradually infiltrates the soil.

• Lastly, deep-rooted crops also hold more water than shallow roots, so interplanting crops within a row is a great way to take advantage of additional water holding capacity.

THINK ABOUT WINDBREAKS

Since our climate is hot and dry, water evaporates from soil more quickly. Keep in mind plants transpire moisture, too.

In farming, we call this evapotranspiration (ET)—the water loss occurring from evaporation and transpiration due to temperature, humidity, windspeed and light intensity on any given day. Growers can look up the daily ET and factor in soil texture to calculate the exact number of gallons of water needed for their crops to grow.

Windbreaks like trees and shrubs can help shield plants from light intensity and wind speed. Tucking

small plants next to taller crops can help too. Some growers use a misting system to limit transpiration. Others use shade cloth.

HOW TO WATER RESPONSIBLY

Efficient irrigation is the best way to conserve water. Sprinklers put water into the air— which isn’t where the roots are! Drip tape or weep hose are best as both deliver water directly to the soil.

Spray stakes have also gained popularity because they can be cracked open early in the season to get the plant growing, then opened fully for mature crops and turned off after the crop is harvested.

A moisture probe is a sure way to not over- or underwater your crops. Expect to pay $100 for a good one. Anything cheaper is de -

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED

signed for house plants and won’t be accurate enough or have a deep enough probe. Each crop has a preferred moisture range, but a good quality moisture probe can pay for itself in a season.

If tomatoes get too much water, the skins of the fruit crack. Too little and the plant can suck moisture from the fruit, creating blossom end rot.

The ideal moisture range for tomatoes is 40-70%. When the moisture probe reads 39%, irrigate up to 70% and stop.

Smart-farming moisture probes can tell the irrigation system when to turn on and off based on the crops being watered. Water consumption can also be monitored on our smart phones, which can save city-water users a lot of money. ■

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

Caring for Our Nation’s Heroes

Travel smart with these 12 must-pack OTC medications and supplements

By Suzy Cohen

While traveling this summer, it’s important to be prepared to handle the little things. Based on my experiences, here are the 12 most important medications and supplements to pack for your next trip. I like to take unit-dose pills or capsules instead of lugging around entire bottles, as bottles can fill your suitcase pretty quickly. This will help you avoid unnecessary (and difficult) stops at pharmacies in unfamiliar terrain.

1. Antihistamine - For mild allergic reactions or itchy rashes. Claritin for day use, and Benadryl at night.

2. Cold medicine - A nose spray can help with nasal congestion or a sinus headache.

3. Anti-itch cream - Hydrocortisone cream relieves itching from bug bites, rashes or other minor skin irritations.

4. Sleep aid - Not sleeping properly on your trip will cause misery! I recommend melatonin for jet lag, but if you have Benadryl as your anti-histamine that will also put you to sleep.

5. Eye drops - A redness-reliever eye drop can soothe irritated eyes from air travel or allergies.

6. Earplugs - Silicone earplugs can help you sleep through loud noises at night.

7. Pain reliever - Ibuprofen or acetaminophen—either one of these can help relieve pain from headaches, toothaches and muscle aches that may occur during travel. Acetaminophen is a little better for fever if you happen to get sick.

8. Anti-diarrhea medicationImodium or other anti-diarrhea

medication, along with a probiotic, can alleviate traveler’s diarrhea.

9. Electrolyte solution - Pedialyte® replenishes fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhea or vomiting. It will also help you with leg cramps! You can take powder stick packets with you and make your own with some bottled water.

10. Antacids - Tums or Pepcid AC can alleviate heartburn or acid reflux symptoms after eating some spicy pozole rojo!

11. Bandages and antibiotic ointment - Treat minor cuts and scrapes with items like Neosporin and bandages.

12. Ginger capsules or tabletsUseful for nausea, motion sickness or queasiness from windy roads or boat rides.

If traveling with insulin and needles, inform the airline and pack it in your carry-on luggage. Take a look at TSA guidelines, and comply with proper labeling and temperature control measures.

Packing these OTC medications and supplements can prevent or alleviate many travel-related health issues, so you can focus on enjoying your trip. For chronic medical conditions requiring prescription medication, make sure to pack them in their original packaging or prescription bottle.

Finally, consider the destination. Countries such as India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Egypt, Mexico and Thailand have a slightly higher risk of diseases due to inadequate sanitation or water treatment facilities. As such, people are more likely to experience traveler’s diarrhea or other diseases like cholera or typhoid fever. ■

When you’re too old to do…what?

By David Wilkening

Youcan’t walk away from Father Time, but is it possible to grow too old to continue many physical activities? Is there really a time to quit, or is it all baloney?

The issue came up for me recently during a chat with the neighbor while I was getting the mail. I had just returned from a bicycle ride, which was apparent by my red-color blinking hat and neon green shirt. After threshing over the often-expressed opinion that hoping for something positive to arrive via U.S. mail was totally delusional, my neighbor raised a couple of questions that were somewhat unusual and seemingly unrelated because they involved numbers.

How far did I ride? And how old was I?

“Five to 10 miles as usual. I’m 77,” I told her.

“Amazing. I’m 76 but I gave up riding two years ago. I read that it’s dangerous to keep doing it at our age,” she said.

That made me wonder: Is this a common belief?

Age takes its toll, of course, but when is it time to stop lifetime physical activities like riding a bicycle?

My neighbor’s thoughts about exercise doing more harm than good is not an unfamiliar one. But most experts agree that as you age, sitting too much is a losing idea. And almost anyone at any age and with most health conditions can participate in some type of physical activity.

I am not a medical professional but I do have some suggestions of what type of physical activity we “old people” should incorporate into our routines. Here are my own dos and don’ts: Do: Run. I considered it, but it’s not for me.

Don’t: We all hear of those 80-year-olds who run marathons, but running is hard on your body.

Do: Walk. It’s always good for you. It can be done almost anywhere and can be started at any age.

Don’t: Even my neighbor would agree it’s virtually impossible to overdo it or injure yourself walking unless you’re hiking some steep or uneven terrain.

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Do: Any type of intense workouts or weight lifting.

Don’t: Avoid intense exercise. Instead, opt for lighter regular exercise such as swimming, aerobics or bicycling.

Do: Ride your bicycle. Yes, my own choice. It’s non-weight bearing and good for your cardiovascular health. The real danger is from motor vehicles.

Don’t: Forget to install your red lights and flags so motorists can see you.

Do: Aerobics regularly.

Don’t: Expect me to join you. I tried it.

Do: At last, consider jumping. Just that exercise can help prevent broken bones, which is a common ailment as we age. Research on tennis players found they had lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and live longer.

Don’t: Expert miracles.

All of this adds up to one cliché: use it or lose it. But don’t forget that sometimes the cliches get it right. ■

This Father’s Day make sure you have everything you need to live independently and take advantage of our

AID PROGRAM

The ADRC Material Aid Program helps provide funding for a variety of goods and services such as glasses, dental work, hearing aids, medical equipment among other needs that would help support the continuing independence of older adults in our community.

970-248-2746

(Option 1)

Unforgettable lessons I learned in Home Ec class

By Elizabeth Youngman

Back when I was a freshman in high school, we only had a few electives. All of the girls I knew registered for Home Economics. Reflecting over the years, I am astonished to realize it was that two-semester class that prepared me for the rest of my life.

In Home Economics, under Miss Olson’s keen eye, I learned to follow directions by reading the instructions for recipes. I learned when paying close attention to exact measurements, mixing instructions, temperature and time requirements, I could expect a successful outcome.

In the second semester, I discovered how to make a plan. The class was assigned to buy a blouse pattern along with enough fabric, thread, buttons and straight pins to assemble the project. Next, we were shown how to lay the pattern out, economizing fabric, thus ensuring there would be enough material to complete the assignment.

Sewing the sleeves on that blouse was the hardest part until we got to button holes. Apparently, button holes need to be in exact alignment up the front placket. As if it wasn’t tricky enough, the button holes needed to be big enough for the buttons to slip through. And those pesky buttons needed to be sewn on in such a way so they wouldn’t fall off after multiple washings. There is only one right way to sew on a button. And we learned how to do it correctly.

Under Miss Olson’s guidance, we even learned to make a gathered skirt without a pattern or a zipper. She made certain that we could stitch by hand as well as sew on an electric sewing machine. The entire class learned to complete each task, even the hard ones.

Fifty years later at our high school reunion, it was unanimously agreed that we all probably made the ugliest blouses and skirts we’d ever owned in order to pass that course.

As part of the curriculum, we also learned the art of gift wrapping. Miss Olson taught us the importance of presentation by demonstrating how to beautifully wrap a gift topped by a perfect bow.

Miss Olson also instructed us on the importance of writing thankyou notes. Of the many notes of appreciation I have written through the years, one such note stands out above all others.

My most famous thank you note went to a 6-foot-8 power forward with the Sacramento Kings. It was the Kings’ inaugural season and #53 had just been traded from the San Antonio Spurs.

Through friends of a friend, one Tuesday night I got a last-minute call from someone saying two tickets would be waiting for me at the Kings box office, if I could make it. Like I’d miss the biggest happening in town!

The tickets turned out to be Mark Olberding’s. We had not been introduced so in my thank you note, written the next morning, I let him know how my girlfriend and I came to be sitting in his players seats the night before.

Later in the week, I was stunned when Mark Olberding called my office. This friendly gent admitted that in all of his playing years in college and professional basketball, giving away thousands of dollars in free tickets, I was the first guest to send him a thank you note. Ever.

Long story short, for the next two years of his contract, I had first access to

his players seats for home games. You bet that after each game I sent another note of thanks.

As it stands, Miss Olson wasn’t my first sewing instruc tor. Actually, my grand mother sat me down at an early age with colored thread, needle and an embroidery hoop. I must have made the mistake of saying “I was bored.”

Thanks to these two ladies, I can blind stitch a seam by hand, design and stitch pillow shams, mend seams and I have even sewn multiple sets of lined draperies for two homes. Not to crow, but I’ve also made place mats to match tablecloths with coordinating table skirts. And crazy me, a few years ago, I made personal Christmas stockings for the entire family.

I am not a seamstress. My limited skills extend to replacing elastic in a pajama pant, shortening hems or taking in a seam.

My concern is for the generations destined to raise families without the benefits of a Home Economics class.

Why again did it get cut from the high school curriculum?

After all, this one course teaches necessary life skills like money management, cooking, sewing, planning and how to clean up after yourself.

These important skills are necessary to live on this planet. When teachers like Miss Olson are no longer a part of the educational system, society suffers. Unlike so many young people today, I learned these valuable life skills at 14.

And for those of you who didn’t have a Miss Olson in your lives and can’t read a recipe, therefore you cannot cook, write a thank you note or don’t know the art of sewing on a button, no worries—you can always go to Google. They have pictures. ■

WHEN TEACHERS LIKE MISS OLSON ARE NO LONGER A PART OF THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM, SOCIETY SUFFERS.

If an attempt doesn’t kill you, find your happy trail

By Lynn Walker Gendusa

Dadheld my hand as we strolled toward the mammoth beast he wanted me to ride. Since I was only 5, the horse resembled a dinosaur but didn’t appear as if he could spew fire like a dragon.

Dad hoisted me into the saddle as I realized horses are sure larger in real life than on television. I tried not to be frightened, but my heart pounded.

The horse must not have taken too kindly to the kid on his back because before we took one hoof-sized step, he bucked. The next thing I knew was I was lying in the dirt gasping for air. Yep, either the fall knocked the breath out of me or I decided to quit breathing so I wouldn’t have to ride that dinosaur!

Luckily, the only thing that was hurt was my dream of riding horses like Roy Rogers and Dale Evans did on TV. I even had a cowgirl outfit and boots to play the role of their kid one day! Now my illusions were shattered because I concluded that there was no way anyone would put me back in a saddle again.

Well, that was what I believed before Dad picked me up off the ground and put me back on the dinosaur as I screamed and kicked. However, this time the horse didn’t buck. A handler led the horse and me around the oval track while I began to hum “Happy Trails to You.” Shoot, maybe I would be on the television with Roy and Dale by Saturday if I kept this up, I imagined.

There were many times during my life when my dreams landed in

WHEN DAD CAUSED ME TO RIDE AGAIN SO SOON AFTER I FELL, HE TAUGHT ME THAT NO MATTER WHAT, IF AN ATTEMPT DOESN’T KILL YOU, JUST KEEP TRYING TO FIND YOUR HAPPY TRAIL.

the dirt. Times when I felt nothing would make me believe I could put my shattered hopes back together. Many of us have attempted to conquer fears, tame a beast, try and try, only to fail repeatedly. When Dad caused me to ride again so soon after I fell, he taught me that no matter what, if an attempt doesn’t kill you, just keep trying to find your happy trail.

My father often needed to push me. Many times, I kicked and screamed through my panic. I shook my head no and stomped my feet, but ultimately, I succumbed to his determination or mine.

When the world began traveling

by automobile, my grandmother decided that driving was not for her. She wanted someone else to drive her, or she would just walk to get what she needed. She put her stubborn foot down and was unruffled by her husband’s attempts to plop her in the driver’s seat.

Granddaddy knew her reluctance was based on fear, but he finally coaxed her to get behind the wheel.

“Okay, but I am not learning to drive on the road!” Grandma declared.

“Well, Nannie, where are you going to learn if not on the road?” he responded.

“In the front yard!” she announced, putting that stubborn foot smack down on the hardwood floor.

Granddaddy looked out the window noticing the yard was full of trees. How was he going to keep her from running square into one?

She got in the old car with Granddaddy by her side. While

both feared for their lives, she dodged trees, slammed on brakes and swerved so hard she almost threw her husband out the passenger door. Yet somehow in the tree-studded front yard, she miraculously conquered the beast.

When Grandma was around 95, her children finally took her little red Dodge away because of her worsening dementia. When I visited her one day, I asked, “Grandma, how are you feeling?”

“Shoot, I’d be fine if they would give me my Dodge Dart back!” she said.

Sometimes when we conquer our fears to fulfill our dreams, we find complete joy like my grandmother did once she started putting the car on the road. I assure you she never drove over 30 miles per hour, but that didn’t matter.

There is not one day too late to put your worries aside and work a dream into reality. Find the happy trail for you and remember to get back in the saddle if you fall. ■

Ford Mustang: America’s first practical “sports” car

By Randal C. Hill

The debut of the Ford Mustang, named after the famed World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane, took place at the New York World’s Fair on April 17, 1964.

That same day, 22,000 people, undoubtedly fueled by ads on all three TV networks and in 2,900 newspapers, bolted to their local dealers to secure a shiny new 1964 1/2 Mustang for themselves. The car became such an overnight hit that a New York diner posted a sign in its window that read “Our hotcakes are selling like Mustangs!”

In 1959, after Ford’s Edsel died a quiet death (the automaker had failed to accurately gauge the potential market for such a vehicle), the company honchos were determined not to repeat such a costly blunder.

By the early 1960s, a young Princeton-educated Ford executive named Lee Iacocca had become the head of the product development division and supervised a 20-person market-research group with its eyes fixed on the prize.

“We have experts who watch for every change in the customer’s pulse-beat,” Iacocca explained. “For a long time now, we have been aware that an unprecedented youth boom was in the making.”

It was obvious to Iacocca that Ford needed to

car”—something stylish yet affordable—aimed squarely at the upcoming generation that longed to own a car that was different from that of their parents. It was almost as if Baby Boomers were saying, “Please, we don’t want another ho-hum fourdoor sedan. Give us something exciting! Something unique! Something for us!”

Related statistics revealed other important data to Iacocca. The number of women drivers had soared 53 percent between 1956 and 1964, and recent college grads were now making 46 percent of all new car purchases.

Iacocca’s team knew that their product must offer a sporty look, be an early type of “muscle car,” be appealing to women and, perhaps most importantly,

FORD NEEDED TO OFFER A “YOUTH CAR”—SOMETHING STYLISH YET AFFORDABLE

The Mustang’s style had been influenced by low-slung British roadsters such as the MGB and the Sunbeam Alpine, and Ford’s product offered a comparable elongated hood and a chopped rear deck. The Mustang could seat a family of four (okay, so it offered only a token back seat) and it was affordable, priced at $2,368 for the basic models. To lower costs, Mustangs were built on the same platform as Ford’s boring old Falcon, which

lent its engine—and a host of other items—to the new vehicle. Customers could choose from a list of 50 different options.

Mustangs graced the covers of Newsweek and Time. Assembly plants ran 24-hour shifts and still couldn’t keep up with the demand. By 1966, 1 million Mustangs had found their way into the garages of enchanted owners. Not since the 1928 Model A had Ford hammered such a sales home run.

Yet for a long time, Iacocca kept silent about something: The Mustang couldn’t be too idiosyncratic.

“The American public doesn’t [really want] a sports car,” he said. “It wants one that looks like a sports car.” T

coverage

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If you suspect Medicare Fraud, we can help with that as well!

“Are we there yet?”

7 hacks for fun, stress-free road travel with grandkids

By Kimberly Blaker

Taking a road trip with grandkids can be a fun adventure for grandkids and grandparents alike. The question is: Are you prepared for the sibling squabbles, food and drink spills, umpteen rest stops and being asked a hundred times or more, “Are we there yet?”

With a little pre-planning, you can drastically reduce the hassles and turn your time on the road into a fun, family experience for all.

Restroom breaks. Immediately before heading out, have everyone go to the bathroom, whether they need to or not. Just before and while on the road, limit beverages, particularly caffeinated ones, to reduce the frequency of restroom stops. When you do have to stop for something, have everyone use the restroom again, and don’t accept anyone’s claim, “I don’t need to go.”

Reduce stops. Strategize where you choose to stop so you can cover all the bases at once. Fuel up, grab food and beverages, use the restroom, and go for a walk or play a game of tag so everyone can stretch and exercise.

Drive through the night. Kids typically sleep through the night on the road. It’ll seem like they’ve reached your destination in the blink of an eye, which will reduce your overall stress. So long as night driving isn’t an issue, adults can switch off driving while one another sleeps.

Plan fun or scenic stops. Do some advance research to find a fun stop along the way, and build it into your vacation. Look for a state or national park, national monument, beach, kiddie fun land, river walk or water park.

Also, take along some car games, and print a list of games that don’t require pieces to play. Some ideas to get you started:

Snacks and drinks. Bring along a cooler and a variety of drinks and snacks to reduce pit stops. Breaking up the time with small meals and snacks will also help keep kids pacified. When packing snacks, include some nutritious ones like carrot sticks and apples. Also, keep in mind the messiness of particular types of foods. To reduce messes, avoid foods that melt, smear and squish, such as chocolate, cupcakes and yogurt.

Car entertainment. Before your trip, visit the library to pick out books, audiobooks, movies and music CDs. Bringing along a portable DVD player or tablet with downloaded movies. Headphones are always a good idea unless you want to hear the music of “CoCo” all the time. But don’t let the kids have the items until you’re on the road. That way, the kids will have fresh entertainment.

• The license plate game. Have everyone write down the states of the license plates as they spot them. The person with the most states wins.

• The “Would you rather?” game. Take turns asking everyone what their choice would be between two gross or unpleasant situations. For example, would you rather be trapped in a closet that’s crawling with hundreds of centipedes or eat a worm?

Screen time. While limiting kids’ daily screen time is a best practice, consider making an exception for your road trip. Depending on the length of your drive, it can be a challenge to keep kids amused for the duration despite all the other entertainment you bring along. Limit their screen time on the road by allowing them 30-minute cycles of screen time broken up by other activities. ■

15 Grandkid-Friendly Destinations & Pit Stops (that aren’t the aquarium or the zoo)

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

415 E. 6th St., Glenwood Springs HotSpringsPool.com | 970-9456571

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, Glenwood Springs

GlenwoodCaverns.com | 970-9454228

Mountain Top Explorium

100 S. Park Ave., Breckenridge

MountainTopBreck.org | 970-4537878

Colorado Railroad Museum

17155 W. 44th Ave., Golden ColoradoRailroadMuseum.org | 800-365-6263

Dinosaur Ridge

16831 W. Alameda Pkwy, Morrison DinoRidge.org | 303-697-3466

Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center

6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster Butterflies.org | 303-469-5441

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

408 Mason Ct., Fort Collins FCMOD.org | 970-221-6738

Wild Animal Sanctuary 2999 County Road 53, Keenesburg WildAnimalSanctuary.org | 303536-0118

Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park 4821 Hwy 84, Pagosa Springs PagosaWildlifePark.com | 970264-5546

Trailhead Children’s Museum 606 6th St., Crested Butte TrailheadKids.org | 970-349-7160

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 479 Main St., Silverton 970-247-2733

Summer Tubing Hill in Granby YMCARockies.org | 970-586-3341

The North Pole (Yes, it’s open during the summer)

5050 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade NorthPoleColorado.com | 719684-9432

Colorado Gators Reptile Park 9162 Lane 9 North, Mosca ColoradoGators.com | 719-3782612

Kit Carson County Carousel 815 15th St., Burlington KitCarsonCountyCarousel.com | 719-348-5562

Frustrated with texting?

Use this handy smartphone feature instead

While smartphones are one of the most ubiquitous forms of technology ever invented, they are one of the least intuitive to use.

Smartphones come in two main varieties: iPhone, which runs on Apple’s iOS software platform, and all other smartphones, which are made by numerous manufacturers and run on Google’s Android software platform.

Both varieties essentially work the same way. Each runs apps that are downloaded from the platform’s app store, which gives the phone more functionality than Captain Kirk’s tricorder.

The most advanced smartphones allow you to take threedimensional photos, film cinema-quality video and record an entire rock band studio session with dozens of tracks. In addition to the abilities of the phone itself, users can use the phone to control smart devices and accessories, such as room lights, home surveillance devices, major appliances and medical equipment. There are even smart collars available that allow pet owners to track their four-legged family members.

Every year Apple and every major Android manufacturer release at least one new phone model. Each upgrade features more memory, a better camera, and more bells and whistles than the previous model.

Unfortunately, the worst feature of all smartphones has gone almost untouched since the first iPhone was introduced in 2007: the keyboard.

I have fingers that resemble

Vienna sausages. Typing on a smartphone keyboard is a maddening experience that’s made worse by the fact that I am a verbose and fastidious writer. I refuse to abbreviate, truncate or omit punctuation.

When I’m appropriately caffeinated, I can type nearly 100 words per minute on a computer keyboard for multiple paragraphs without making a mistake. Using my smartphone, I make a mistake every two or three words. There is no tactile reference and my thumbs are frequently off by a fraction of an inch causing me to type words using the letters to the right or left of the intended key.

My frustration with the smartphone keyboard has led me to use my voice for nearly all of my texts, social media posts and composing notes.

This month I’m going to share a few pointers for using your voice to enter text and even control your smartphone. If you enable the voice features on your Mac or PC, many of these tips will apply to your laptop or desktop computer as well.

HOW TO USE TALK-TO-TEXT

You don’t need to say “Hey Siri” or “OK Google.” All smartphones have a home button or space on the screen that you can hold to

open the voice-control features on your phone. Once that feature is enabled, you can simply ask your phone the question or give it a command.

When you place the cursor in any text field, you will notice a microphone icon on the on-screen keyboard. Tap the microphone and begin speaking to see the text magically appear.

The voice-to-text feature on smartphones is nothing short of miraculous. Although the accuracy leaves a lot to be desired if you speak with a slight Okie-Colorado accent. The accuracy will improve over time.

For best results, speak normally. If you speak too slowly, it will split compound words or even split regular words.

For example, when I say “hormones” into my phone too slowly, it writes “whore moans.” That may be a little risqué for some readers of this 50+ publication (if that’s you, I apologize). It’s worse when you make a silly text to a person at church about how teenage hormones prevented some of the boys in Sunday school from paying attention in class.

BY ADAM COCHRAN

PUNCTUATION TIPS AND TRICKS

There’s more to voice-to-text than simply saying the words you want to type. Try these commands for including punctuation and correcting without using your keyboard.

• “Quote” and “end quote”: begin and end a quote

• “New paragraph”: start a new paragraph

• “New line”: begin a new line

• “Cap”: capitalize the next word

• “Caps on” and “caps off”: capitalize the first character of each word

• “Open paren” and “close paren”: Open and close parentheses

Most punctuation marks and emojis can be typed by saying their name. While I believe that the smartphone keyboard is one of the worst features of modern technology, I believe that voice-to-text is probably the most underused. It only feels silly the first few times you use it. Within a few weeks, you will find that you only use your keyboard for making occasional corrections or choosing a specific emoji. ■

I HAVE FINGERS THAT RESEMBLE VIENNA SAUSAGES. TYPING ON A SMARTPHONE KEYBOARD IS A MADDENING EXPERIENCE.

Does God speak to us?

By John Vieths

Revelation 1:10-16 “On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet which said: Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches…I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me... His head and hair were white like wool…and his eyes were like blazing fire. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.”

You may have heard Christians talk about how God “spoke” to them, leading them to decide to follow some certain path in their lives. Rarely do these people claim that they actually heard a voice. Rather, they felt some vague impression moving them.

Occasionally such people will even admit that what they thought was God speaking to them evidently must have been something else. Even James Dobson warns, “I have come to regard the interpretation of impressions as risky business, at best…The human mind will often

SAFELY Enjoy the Great Outdoors SAFELY This Summer!

Spring is behind us and the weather is getting warmer. Let’s get outside and enjoy the sunshine as often as possible! Natural Vitamin D exposure is very important for our overall health, however, we also need to take precautions against harmful UV’s from the sun.

Wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover our skin, using umbrellas for shade, wearing hats & sunglasses, and applying sunscreen are all ways we can protect our skin while enjoying the great outdoors during the warmer months.

Aging well often requires that we take control of our own health outcomes, and there are yearround action steps we can take. One of the most important considerations during the summer months is that Medicare does NOT cover routine and/ or preventive Skin Cancer screenings. Medicare WILL cover treatment if there is an active diagnosis.

So, as the adage goes, an ounce of prevention is more valuable than a pound of cure! This is just one reason it’s so important to know as much about your Medicare coverage as possible, and learn what you can do to ensure your own positive health outcomes.

Call us at SHIP to learn the ins and outs of Medicare, and how you can utilize that information to empower yourself to age well throughout the year.

1 1

WEAR SUNSCREEN

The higher the SPF, the better! Apply 20 minutes BEFORE fun in the water!

2 2

COVER YOUR SKIN

Choose light, breathable clothing that covers your skin.

3 3

4 4 FAITH

PROTECT YOUR EYES

Sunglasses that protect from UVA & UVB rays are the best!

SHADE

obediently convince itself of anything in order to have its own way.”

Neither you nor I are in a position to judge the source of every impression any person has ever had. But what John writes in the chapters of Revelation and what others recorded for us in the rest of the Bible were not vague impressions open to interpretation. Though God didn’t always reveal his message in the way he did here, John heard a voice definitely speaking to him in a miraculous way.

Of course, John was only the messenger. Our confidence grows in what he writes when we see the one who gave him the words. This is Jesus. We don’t have to try to find some meaning in every feature of his description. It is enough to recognize how majestic he appears.

This isn’t anything like the humble carpenter from Galilee John had spent three years sharing dinner with and walking alongside, who once even kneeled down in front of John and washed his feet. This is nothing like the condemned man John once watched bleeding and dying on a cross.

There was almost a casual familiarity John had with Jesus before he returned to heaven. Now, he tells us, “When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead.”

In the presence of Jesus, now displaying the glory of his godhood, John feels compelled to fall flat on the ground in humble worship.

Do we feel this kind of awe and reverence before Jesus today? Do we sense such holiness—such glory—that sets him so high above

us lowly creatures below? We are familiar with the very human face of Jesus that preached and healed, and ultimately suffered and died for us because of his unfathomable love for you and me.

We love this image of our Savior, and rightly so. But let’s not forget that Jesus no longer lives in such humility. He is now the one who rules in heavenly glory. All power in heaven and on earth has been given to him. Countless angels attend and serve him.

Evangelical-turned-Lutheran Craig Parton tells of how he took his family to the Greek Orthodox church for a while when he was still on his spiritual search. He did so not because he agreed with its doctrine, but because its people would get on their knees and put their face right on the ground in recognition of Christ’s glory and majesty. He wanted his children to recognize this about their God and Savior. We do well to recognize it about him, too.

For when we do, won’t we also approach his words with a sense of humble reverence? John is setting the stage here for the rest of the book. This is the source of the Revelation that follows. In fact, this is the source of all revelation. The words John writes are the words that come from this glorious God, and his glorious appearance assures us that we can count on the words he reveals. ■

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

The joys of chugging along

By Rhonda Wray

Irecently had the delightful privilege of traversing this breathtaking state of ours by train, from Denver to Grand Junction. While I’m very thankful I can drive, it’s not on my list of favorite activities. It’s a means to an end. And as flying has grown increasingly unfun, it was a welcome relief to travel casually. There was no need to bring travel-sized liquids. No long security lines. No shoe removal. No need to show IDs when we boarded.

Our train, the California Zephyr, runs between Chicago and Emeryville, in Northern California. The route is just over 2,400 miles long with 35 stops along the way, including six in Colorado.

After leaving Denver’s Union Station, we rumbled west through the six-mile moonless-night darkness of

the Moffat Tunnel. We emerged to the ground blanketed white, truly putting the winter in Winter Park (and I was doubly thankful I wasn’t behind the wheel). Next came blink-and-you’ll-miss-it Granby. We got a 10-minute “fresh air break” in charming Glenwood Springs, which wasn’t nearly long enough. I’d love to stroll its streets and bask in its hot springs.

Sitting in the observation car and gazing out those giant windows was a real-life nature film. Enormous rock faces, forests, cabins and wildlife vied for attention. The internet was spotty but that didn’t matter, between the postcard-worthy sights and time to read. I’m the queen of queasy—I assumed I’d outgrow motion sickness but never did. I didn’t even feel a flicker of it. Another win. What I didn’t do was

sleep—my FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) kept me from it—but of course you could. The train treats you right, from the fresh roses and linen tablecloths to the delicious food—even steak dinners.

The people made it even better. The personable conductors take time to chat. Strangers become friends. A precocious kindergartner sitting nearby filled her princess journal with long lists of creatively spelled words.

“Sound it out,” she admonished us, when we had trouble deciphering her intent.

There were only two mishaps. One was a boulder on the tracks. The other occurred when my coworker and I were on the lower level of the train by the small café/ store. We heard a metallic crunch and turned to each other, sau -

cer-eyed—something on the track knocked the air hose off. But the competent crew treated them as minor inconveniences, and we were soon, well, back on track.

My grandfather was a railroad man. We took the train from Fort Madison, Iowa, to La Junta, where he and Grandma lived, a handful of times. He began as a switchman for then-Santa Fe Railroad (now Amtrack) in 1942. His starting salary was $7 per day.

“I thought I had all the money in the world,” he wrote in his life story. Due to a labor shortage, he often had to work 16-hour shifts. Two years later, he saw the regular 3-11 p.m. yardmaster stumbling drunk into a tavern.

“I’ll bet the phone is ringing at home,” he told his family. It was. The errant employee was fired and Grandpa moved up to become yardmaster for 32 years. Train travel connected me to my roots.

Eight unhurried hours later we reached our destination, where spring gave the landscape a glowup. Grand Junction’s trees were abloom, and tulips waved a welcome in the gentle breeze.

A slow and meandering pace suits me. The destination is wonderful, but so is the journey. Amid the world’s need for speed, I hope the train will remain. There are tickets to buy and trips to take. ■

Long-term care insurance: yes, no, maybe?

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

How is purchasing long-term care insurance (LTCI) like planting a tree? For both of these activities, the best time to accomplish it is 20 years ago.

Now in what way is purchasing long-term care insurance not like planting a tree? The next best time for tree planting is now, but that’s not necessarily the case for buying long-term care insurance.

IS LTCI A SCAM?

Why is long-term care insurance so inscrutable? This insurance is fairly new, closely following the history of nursing homes, which emerged relatively recently, according to a National Academy of Medicine (NAM) article. The 1935 Social Security Act (SSA) allocated funds to states to care for destitute older adults. Social Security, combined with the Medicare and Medicaid amendments of 1965, “created a cultural and economic preference for institutional long-term care,” the NAM article stated.

As a higher percentage of adults entered the workforce, more working-age adults required help caring for aging parents. LTCI became increasingly available across the country in the late 1960s and 1970s. It became quite popular in the 1980s and early 1990s.

For insurance companies, pricing this new type of policy required some clever and even prescient forecasting. Like most insurance, LTCI was designed to provide a cushion of funds in the event that a specific event occurred. The early plans often covered costs, after a small deductible, for nursing home care for the remainder of the covered person’s life.

The early insurers underestimated several key inputs in computing their policy prices. One was the large fraction of policyholders who

would continue to pay on their policies for years rather than let them lapse. A second was how much long-term care costs would increase in the ensuing years. Finally, they underestimated how much longevity was increasing in the U.S. These early policies were thus relatively generous in terms of what they would cover and how many years they would pay (often for life).

By the early 2000s, it became evident that companies didn’t have sufficient reserves for the liability of their policyholders. This led to problems with coverage denials for elders who had paid in for years or decades.

OVER 8 MILLION AMERICANS HOLD LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE

TODAY.

PROS AND CONS

Over 8 million Americans hold longterm care insurance today. Meanwhile, over half of Americans who are currently 65 or older will need some type of long-term care in their future, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Men needing long-term care will require it for 1.5 years on average; the figure for women is about 2.5 years.

Considering the gap between those who will need long-term care and those who have purchased insurance, is now the next best time to buy LTCI? There are some strong advantages in purchasing a policy, especially if you are in your 40s or 50s. At that age, the premiums are less expensive. Moreover, young policyholders guarantee their insurability.

Today’s policies have also improved in at least one aspect. Most policies will pay for care in a

nursing home, assisted living facility or adult day care center, or even at home.

Policies generally pay, up to a predetermined limit, for a variety of situations. Coverage for dementia and other severe cognitive impairments is fairly standard. Other “normal” coverage includes seniors who can’t perform two or more activities of daily living (ADLs). These generally are personal hygiene, continence management, dressing, feeding and ambulating.

The big disadvantages of LTCI mirror the advantages. Like most insurance policies, you can pay into a policy faithfully for years or decades, totaling tens of thousands of dollars or more, but have your coverage denied. You could pay in for decades and then be priced out of your premiums. It’s also possible for the coverage to change and not be as comprehensive as you expected.

Finally, it would be hard to count as a disadvantage the scenario where you hold long-term care insurance and pass away never having needed long-term care. In that case, your beneficiaries will be happy you didn’t suffer, but they may have lost any inheritance to LTCI premiums.

CONSIDER THE ALTERNATIVES

You might consider short-term versus long-term insurance. Shortterm care coverage would kick in when Medicare coverage ends. Short-term coverage is less expen -

sive, easier to qualify for and may not contain a deductible.

However, short-term coverage won’t help for needs lasting longer than a year. You can only buy it a year at a time, so chances are you won’t be offered a new policy if you are using the benefits. It is not regulated to the extent long-term coverage is, so you have to check carefully for important details such as guaranteed renewability.

Sometimes life insurance policies can be used to pay long-term care costs. Such modified life insurance policies have long-term care riders, which are becoming more popular. An immediate annuity is another consideration for covering LTC costs. Tax consequences accompany each of these decisions.

If you can earmark at least $250,000 of your retirement funds for a potential long-term care need, you might consider self-insuring. If the money is not needed, there’s more for your heirs.

If you can’t set aside that amount, you can pay down your funds for your care, after which Medicaid will kick in for nursing care. You will be limited to facilities that accept Medicaid. Beware circumventing by giving your money to your kids since there’s a five-year lookback period.

An unreasonable alternative is to stick your head in the sand. Trees can’t grow in sand, nor can a solution for the unknown future of your old age. See a fee-only financial planner. Explore the branches now, while you have options. ■

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.

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):

Y0040_GHHJWWVEN22_AD_M

Famous last words

By Paul Erland

“Lastwords are for fools who haven’t said enough,” said Karl Marx right before he died on March 14, 1883—presumably without a trace of irony. But the urge to get in a last word, with some people, is apparently as strong as the one to get in the last word for most people. The compulsion may be summed up with this variation on a time-honored nugget of advice: Always make a good last impression.

victed murderer Thomas Grasso, who definitely would stand for no confusion. On March 20, 1995, just before he was to be executed by lethal injection, Grasso uttered these defiant last words: “I did not get my SpaghettiOs. I got spaghetti. I want the press to know this.”

As far as last words go, Beethoven (died March 26, 1827) or his chroniclers have all the bases covered. The great composer’s parting shots have been variously recorded as: “Pity, pity, too late,” or “Applaud, my friends, the comedy is finished” (which he supposedly said in Latin: Plaudite, amici, comedia finite est.) Then there’s “I shall hear in Heaven.” “I feel as if up to now I had written only a few notes.”

To his friend Johann Hummel, who was at his bedside: “Is it not true, Hummel, that I have some talent after all?” And: “There! Do you hear the bell? Don’t you hear it ringing? The curtain must drop. Yes! My curtain is falling.”

One biographer says he said nothing. He simply shook his fists as a thunderstorm raged outside.

We’d like to say, roll over, Beethoven, and clear up the confusion.

Moving from the sublime to the ridiculous, there was con -

March 29, 1912 was a notable day for last words. John Jacob Astor, the American industrialist who was the richest man in the world at the time, was a passenger on the Titanic with his new young bride. The couple was about to step into a lifeboat when Astor gave up his seat to a female passenger. He was one of the 1,500 that perished when the ship sank. Astor’s last words were: “Goodbye, dearie, I’ll see you later.”

Captain Robert Falcon Scott, the famed British explorer, reached the South Pole on January 18, 1912, only to find that they’d been beaten there by a party led by Roald Amundsen. On their return trip to

Beethoven

Thomas Grasso

John Jacob Astor

their base camp, the entire party died.

Scott’s last diary entry, on March 29, concluded with the words: “For God’s sake, look after our people.”

Scott also left behind a message to the public, which read in part: “Had we lived, I should have had a tale to tell of the hardihood, endurance and courage of my companions which would have stirred the heart of every Englishman. These rough notes and our dead bodies must tell the tale.”

The tale of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald is familiar to lovers of literature. Zelda died on March 10, 1948, in a fire in Highland Mental Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, where she was a patient. Her husband Scott had died eight years earlier. Neither Scott nor Zelda left any last words for posterity, but inscribed on their tombstone in Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Rockville, Maryland, is the final sentence of

The Great Gatsby: “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.”

Borne back to the past, perhaps, but definitely propelled into the future—until we come to rest at last? Who knows? Not Henry Ward Beecher, the noted abolitionist and preacher, and brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe (author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”), who died on March 8, 1887. His last words: “Now comes the mystery.” ■

Captain Robert Falcon Scott Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald

Henry Ward Beecher

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

5 experiential adventures in Mesa Verde Country

Oneof the best things about travel is getting to know the local culture through authentic experiences that are unique to the location you are visiting. Mesa Verde Country in Southwest Colorado has a number of hands-on experiences for travelers to enjoy this vacation season.

Mesa Verde Country is in southwest Colorado near the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Named

the “Number One Historic Monument in the World” by Conde Nast Traveler and one of the “50 Places of a Lifetime” by National Geographic, the park is one of the nation’s first World Heritage sites and the largest archaeological preserve in the country.

Here are just five of the ways to really experience Mesa Verde Country first-hand.

CROW CANYON ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTER

23390 Road K, Cortez, Colorado CrowCanyon.org | 970-565-8975

Crow Canyon Archaeological Center was founded on the idea that members of the public could play an important role in archaeology. Each year, the center welcomes people of all ages to serve as citizen scientists in support of its mission of pursuing archaeological research and experiential education in collaboration with Native Americans.

Crow Canyon is a non-profit research facility and living classroom offering hands-on archaeology programs. The center is located on 170 acres in the high desert where deep sandstone canyons meet pinyon-, juniper- and sage-covered plains. Reserve a spot on a Cultural Explorations program— small group tours guided by archaeologists, cultural specialists, tribal members and other subject-matter experts imparting the importance of contexts and perspectives in archeological studies.

In addition, the Research Institute Crow Canyon hosts resident and visiting interdisciplinary scholars collaborating and sharing extensive research with the larger community. Reservations required, please call ahead.

MANCOS CREATIVE ARTS DISTRICT

Mancos, Colorado

MancosCreativeDistrict.com

The Mancos Creative District spans several blocks in the historic downtown and is home to galleries, artisan cooperatives, an historic opera house, a thriving common press, late 1800s buildings, and home to cowboys, craftsmen, artists, musicians, brewers, chefs, farmers and makers.

Mancos School of the West offers a host of workshops that give visitors an opportunity to learn from local masters in mediums ranging from iron work to mosaic, photography, and fibers. Explore what’s available and sign up for a workshop at SchoolOfTheWest.org/workshops.

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.

MONTEZUMA HERITAGE MUSEUM

35 S. Chestnut St., Cortez, Colorado

MontezumaMuseum.org | 970-516-1100

The new Montezuma Heritage Museum in Cortez was created by the Montezuma County Historical Society in cooperation with the county, area towns, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, residents, local organizations and government agencies. Staying true to its motto, “Save our history, tell our stories,” the museum tells the comprehensive story of the area, including the Native Americans, Spanish and white settlers who have contributed to the diverse culture of the region.

The museum’s 2,200-square-feet display area features eight exhibits about the people, places and stories of the region. The museum also includes a research center, genealogy library and a small gift shop in addition to history programs featuring local experts.

SOUTHWEST COLORADO CANYONS ALLIANCE

Dolores, Colorado

SWCOcanyons.org | 970-239-1730

Visitors to Mesa Verde Country can get the most out of the culture and history of the area by booking a tour with Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance (SCCA). This grassroots organization is comprised of local citizens who are dedicated to maintaining the conservation lands of the Four Corners Region.

The group’s experienced and educated guides tour visitors through Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, which contains the highest known archaeological site density in the United States with rich, well-preserved evidence of native cultures. SCCA offers half-day, full-day and other adventures for all ages and fitness levels. All tours include information on ancestral culture, the natural environment and archaeology, and also feature messages of “Visiting with Respect” and “Leave No Trace” ethics.

UTE MOUNTAIN TRIBAL PARK

480 Sunset Blvd., Towaoc, Colorado

UteMountainTribalPark.info | 970-565-9653

Journey back in time to explore Ute Mountain Tribal Park through the unique lens of Native American tour guides who interpret the history, pictographs, geological formations, petroglyphs, artifacts and dwellings.

The Ute Mountain Tribal Park has been selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of “80 World Destinations for Travel in the 21st Century,” one of only nine places in the United States to receive this special designation.

The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres around a 25-mile stretch of the Mancos River, and is located in the Mesa Verde/Mancos Canyon area just outside the boundaries of Mesa Verde National Park. Full, half-day and special tours to remote sections of the park are available by reservation.

To learn more about booking a trip to Southwest Colorado’s Mesa Verde Country, go to MesaVerdeCountry.com or call 800-530-2998. ■

Mesa Verde Country has two podcasts that offer an introduction to Southwest Colorado and all its wonders.

To listen to the Mesa Verde Voices Podcast and get the link, visit this article at BeaconSeniorNews.com

970-254-8888

“Where

CALENDAR MeSa County

June 2-3

Mike the Headless Chicken Festival

Celebrate the plucky clucker that lived sans head for 18 months in the ’40s—true story! Head to downtown Fruita for a pancake breakfast, 5K, games, chicken dance, car show, wing-eating contest, music, vendors and more!

4-9 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday | 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita | Free | miketheheadless chicken.org

four panelists will interact with you on a variety of subjects that inquiring wordsmiths need to know.

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

June 7

New-to-Medicare 101

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

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

June 8

Midday with New Dimensions

June 10, 17 & 24

There are fun booths and games, plus live entertainment. Kids under 12 eat free.

8 a.m.-12 p.m. | 2785 US-50 | $6 | kiwanis-gj.org

June 11

Midsummer Celebration

Join the Swedes of the Grand Valley for their annual Midsummer Celebration at Hawthorne Park. Bring your favorite summer Swedish dish and greenery or flowers to decorate the Midsommar Pole. Please RSVP.

Fruita Farmers Market

June 2-4

Grand Valley Yoga Fest

Have fun at this traditional yoga festival with a twist! There will be over 30 classes to suit all levels and interests. Free offerings include a cacao ceremony, panel discussions, live music and more. Proceeds benefit suicide prevention and mental health programs.

3679 G Road, Palisade | $50-$150 | grandvalleyyogafest.com | 606-922-5758

June 3

The Enneagram Experience

Turbocharge your self-understanding in a fun-filled seminar of learning, laughs and growth at the Center for Spiritual Living. You’ll use the Enneagram, a model of personality types, to discover which traits characterize you. Sack lunches may be purchased.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 730 25 Road | $49 | cslgj.org | 970-433-7799

June 6

Writers Night

Got questions about hot markets, dangling modifiers or freelancing? Bring them to The Art Center, where

Learn to weather the weather, whatever the weather from longtime National Weather Service employee Jeff Colton. He’ll describe working as a forecast meteorologist, explain local weather hazards and show how to access weather warnings at the Central Library.

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

June 9-10

Three cheers for summer! Buy local and enjoy the fresh air on Saturday mornings at Reed Park in Fruita. Choose from fresh local produce, handmade crafts, ready-to-eat food, local artists and more.

8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | 250 S. Elm St., Fruita | Free | fruitafarmers market.org | 970-858-3894

June 10

Dwight Yoakam in Concert

Come out and hear country crooner Yoakam under the stars at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. He’s earned Grammys and multi-platinum albums, and he has acted in over 40 feature films, recently Clint Eastwood’s “Cry Macho.”

8-11 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave. | $60$121+ | theampgj.com | 970-263-5700

June 10

Twilight Concert Series

4-7 p.m. | 400 Gunnison Ave. | Free | rjbenson@bresnan.net | 970-241-2945

June 12

“Planet of the Apes”

In celebration of the Avalon Theatre’s centennial, enjoy films from its first 100 years. This month’s feature is “Planet of the Apes” released in 1968, starring Charlton Heston. 7:30-9:30 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $7 | avalontheatrefoundation.org | 970-778-3088

June 17

Introduction to Jeremy House

Jeremy House is a ministry and home for young adult men. Come to Living Stone Church hear about how the nonprofit is becoming a reality and how you can donate and/or volunteer. Come hungry—burgers and hot dogs will be served.

5-7 p.m. | 2971 North Ave. | Free | jeremyhousegj.org

June 17

NightVision Concert

Bring the family to NightVision at the Mesa County Fairgrounds for top Christian bands, artists and speakers; crafts, outdoor games and bounce houses; food vendors and more! Featured artists include Phil Wickham, TobyMac, Newsboys and Big Daddy Weave.

4-10:30 p.m. | 2785 US-50 | $50$80 | phmtickets.com

Enjoy a glass of wine at dusk as the acclaimed Denver Brass plays classical, jazz, Latin and pop at the picturesque Two Rivers Winery. Food is available. Bring a blanket or chair or reserve covered seating or a VIP package for an extra special night.

7:30 p.m. | 2087 Broadway | $20-$80 | gjso.org | 866-312-WINE (9463)

June 10

Kiwanis Pancake Day & Fun Fest

Gather the family and raise money for Mesa County kids at the 55th annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at the Mesa County Fairgrounds!

Roice-Hurst’s 60-Year Celebration

Celebrate the humane society’s six decades of rescuing and caring for animals in distress at Grand Junction Convention Center. Take a walk down memory lane, hear live music from Rock ‘n Swing, enjoy drinks and appetizers and perhaps take home an adoptable pet!

4-7:30 p.m. | 159 Main St. |Free | 970-434-7337 | rhhumanesociety.org

June 20

Music in the Grapevines: Exit 42 Let loose on the lawn of Two Rivers Winery as local country and South-

ern rock band Exit 42 plays loud and proud! Purchase wine by the glass or bottle, and bring your lawn chairs and a picnic. All proceeds benefit The Art Center.

7-9 p.m. | 2807 Broadway | $15-$20 | artcenterguild.org | 970-549-0439

June 22

Palisade History Talk

Enjoy a glass of Ordinary Fellow wine and listen to Bruce Talbott, a fourth-generation Palisade fruit grower, share the history of the local fruit industry and what he suspects it’ll be like in the future.

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

June 29

Classic Albums Live: David Bowie

Remember dropping the needle and listening to an entire record? Classic Albums Live recreates albums note for note. Hear “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” performed with detailed accuracy at the Avalon Theatre.

7-10 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $27-$47 | avalontheatregj.com | 970-263-5700

June 30

Lyle Lovett & His Large Band

Listen to Lovett and, well, love it! The Avalon Theatre hosts this storyteller who fuses country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues. His hits include “She’s No Lady” and “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from the movie “Toy Story.”

7:30-9:30 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $49$109 | avalontheatregj.com | 970-263-5700

June 30

Natalie Spears with Gabrelle Louise and Ryan Dilts

June 29

Centennial Band

There’s something for everyone at this concert at the Pavilion at Civic Center Park: band classics, marches, patriotic and popular music and movie and TV theme songs. This all-volunteer band has entertained the Grand Valley for over 40 years.

7:30-8:30 p.m. | 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita | Free | gjcentennialband.org

June 29

Medicare Information Table

Confused about Medicare? Volunteers from the Mesa County Medicare RSVP State Health Insurance Program will host an information table at the Central Library.

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

Save your seat at The Radio Room for Spears and her guests—Coloradans all! Spears plays porch-picking music and sings of the warmth of community and the awe of wild places. Louise and Dilts perform Americana, folk and bluegrass.

7 p.m. | 1310 Ute Ave. | $20-$30 | kafmradio.org ■

Phil Wickham

CLUBS MeSa County

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

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

Art Quilt Association meets at Redlands Community Center.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friendship Force promotes travel and cultural understanding through home stays. Club meets at New Covenant Baptist Church, 3196 F Road. 3rd Saturday | 2 p.m. | 214-5362250 | ffwcolo.com

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

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

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

Grand Junction Modeleers flying club meets at 427 Sherman Drive.

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

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Grand Junction Convention Center. 3rd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | grandjunctionpmc.com

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

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

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

ST. MARY’S

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

Community Connections

Grand Junction Toastmasters promotes communication and leadership skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ST. MARY’S Community Connections

St. Mary’s Community Connections is seeking volunteers in our community to help older adults who no longer drive, with friendship and support with grocery shopping, medical appointments and other errands. By providing this support for two or three hours once a week, you will help with maintaining their ability to live independently.

St. Mary’s Community Connections is seeking volunteers in our community to help older adults who no longer drive, with friendship and support with grocery shopping, medical appointments, and other errands. By providing this support for two or three hours once a week, you will help with maintaining their ability to live independently.

Please contact Amber Creek, Volunteer Coordinator, at 970-298-9092 or amber.creek@imail.org

Amber Creek,

gmail.com

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

Guys’ Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St. 1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-361-7478 or 970-270-6184

Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction meets at the Warehouse, 2565 American Way. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Native American Cultural Program meets at First United Methodist Church, 522 White Ave.

2nd Tuesdays | 3:30 p.m. | 970433-4763

Newcomers Club welcomes locals both old and new with friendship and fun activities at Grand Valley Event Center, 2400 Consistory Ct.

2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 419450-9438 | gjnewcomers@gmail. com

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

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

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

Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques. 970-256-9580

River City Singles meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 25 1/2 Road, with fun activities for singles over 50. Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 720-278-8537

Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club, 2730 G Road. Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 970-234-5030

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Veterans of Foreign Wars #1247

Auxiliary meets at 1404 Ute Ave.

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

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

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

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

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

Western Colorado Amateur

Radio Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St. 2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | w0rrz.org

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

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

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

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-640-2751

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

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

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

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

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

BEACON BITS MeSa County

Ceramic artist is new Mesa County Libraries Artist in Residence

Ceramic artist Hannah Martin is the new Mesa County Libraries Artist in Residence. Martin has scheduled regular public meet and greets from 2:30-4:30 p.m. each Tuesday through August 1, and will lead several programs for adults, teens and children during her residency. Martin began her art career after watching a behind-the-scenes documentary of the film “Lord of the Rings.” Martin started working with clay in 2014, and in 2019 she received her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts degree from Colorado Mesa University with a concentration in ceramics. Martin says her work is about how we explore nostalgia and language through the lens of pop culture and whimsy. Public programs offered during her residency include Intro to Clay Surface Design, where participants can learn Sgraffito and Mishima clay surface design techniques using greenware bowls. Space is limited, and registration is required at mesacountylibraries.org or by calling 970-243-4442.

Classes take place:

• June 10, 10 a.m. at Palisade Library

• June 22, 5:30 p.m. at Fruita Library

• July 6, 5:30 p.m. at the Central Library

St. Mary’s Medical Center earns Leapfrog “A” for quality and safety

St. Mary’s Medical Center received an “A” grade for 2023 from the national Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade survey for efforts to protect patients and provide safe, highquality care for the community. This is the 12th consecutive “A” grade for St. Mary’s. The Leapfrog Group is a nonprofit, independent organization that reviews hospitals across the country using more than 30 national performance safety measures to determine their grade. The survey considered anything that could bring possible harm to patients such as infections, medical errors, accidents or injuries. The survey also examines the systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm in the first place. It then assigns an “A” through “F” grade based on the hospital’s performance. To see the full Leapfrog list

Rigby Meet

Whengrief occurs, animals can provide a level of comfort beyond spoken words. That’s why we have Rigby.

Rigby is a bright, handsome goldendoodle that joined our team at Brown’s Cremation & Funeral Service. At just five months old, Rigby has an uncanny ability to sense when families are grieving and need some extra attention. He greets everyone who walks in with a kind and loving demeanor, bringing a smile to every face he encounters. Sometimes these smiles produce more tears, but families are often comforted by his attention and affection during their visits to our funeral home.

Rigby’s role as our Grief Support Animal will involve visiting with the deceased’s family and loved ones at viewings and memorials, and assisting in comforting children and young people. Although he’s still in training, Rigby loves his position and enjoys being paid in hugs, kisses and treats.

Petting a therapy dog increases serotonin and dopamine levels in our brains. That chemical reaction is sometimes the one thing that can make a person feel normal, even if it’s only for a moment. It is our hope and intention that Rigby will improve an already difficult situation for the families we serve.

Stop by and say hello to Rigby (and our staff) at any time. Rigby will happily take you on a guided tour of our facilities if you find yourself preplanning for the future.

of hospitals and their grade, visit hospitalsafetygrade.org.

Fraud continues to snare Colorado seniors

AARP reports that online crime targeting Colorado seniors continues to rise. In 2021, AARP says victims in Colorado lost more than $130 million to cybercriminals, as based on FBI records. That’s roughly double what the loss figure was in 2019. AARP says Colorado consistently ranks among the top 10 states for fraud reports related to online shopping and negative reviews of businesses with clearly deceptive practices. AARP ElderWatch Colorado also specifically points to scammers posing as wellknown retailers such as Amazon to bilk consumers out of their money. ElderWatch says it receives 200 to 300 fraud-reporting calls a month from Coloradans. To report fraud, visit stopfraudcolorado.gov or call AARP at 800-222-4444.

We strive to do more for our families than just disposition.

Summer Reading begins at Mesa County Libraries

Summer Reading isn’t just for kids, although it’s a wonderful summer activity that you and your grandkids can enjoy together! Kids, teens and adults can pursue their reading goals, win prizes and exercise their creativity in a number of free events throughout the summer. Sign up at any Mesa County Libraries branch, call 970-243-4442 or visit mesacountylibraries.org/srp. The programs wraps up July 15.

Grand Junction named a Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation

Grand Junction was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management. This is the 40th year that the city has received this recognition. The community also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and an outstanding level of tree care. Grand Junction achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a

tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. For more information, visit arborday.org/programs/ treeCityUSA.

Writers Forum hosts Poetry Night at the library

Everyone is welcome to attend Poetry Night on the second Wednesday of the month from 6-7:45 p.m. at the Central Library, 446 N. 6th St. in Grand Junction. Each month facilitator Lisa Connors presents a specific topic and poets are encouraged to share their work with the group. Newbies welcome! T

Mobile food pantries help alleviate hunger

As of March 2023, all SNAP households’ benefits returned to normal amounts, which today, often falls short of what’s needed to feed hungry families. To help alleviate food insecurity, Food Bank of the Rockies supplies nutritious foods to these mobile pantries across Mesa County. For more information, visit foodbankoftherockies.org/about/western-slope or call 970-464-1138. Adults 60+ can also ask about EverGreen Boxes.

• Clifton Christian Church

3241 F 1/4 Road, Clifton

9-11 a.m. | 4th Saturday | 970-434-7392, opt. 2

• Grand Junction High School

550 North Ave.

3-4 p.m. | 2nd Tuesday | 970-242-0813

• Orchard Mesa Fairgrounds

2758 US-50 5-7 p.m. | 2nd Monday | 970-464-1138

What

OF THE

By Cloie Sandlin

fictional character would you most like to be friends with?

Anne Saunders

“Pippi Longstocking because despite being on her own as a child, she lives an exciting and adventurous life!”

OF THE Month Question Xxxxx Xxxxx

Bill Hirt

“I’d be friends with Superman because he can fly! How cool would that be if he took me with him?”

Karen Cummings

“I’d want to be friend with Tigger from ‘Winnie the Pooh’ because he’s bouncy and fun!”

Bobby Brown

“I have a bumper sticker on my car with Elmer Fudd because we both like hunting ‘wabbits.’ We’d be hanging out in the woods, being very quiet, and we’d probably run into Bugs Bunny at some point.”

Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. |

801-369-8995

SUPPORTCALENDARGROUPS MeSa SUPPORT GROUPS

MeSa County

Montrose & MeDelta Sa County

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

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

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

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

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

970-640-7416

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

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

970-434-3822

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

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

970-714-2875

Dementia Support Group meets

at Aspen Ridge, 622 281/4 Road.

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

Gamblers Anonymous meets at The Meeting Hall.

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

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

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

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

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

Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 970-298- 2351

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-257-2390

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-257-3760

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FUN AFTER 50

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Senior Recreation Center activities

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

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

FOOD

Meals on Wheels

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

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

Senior Potluck

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

12 p.m. | June 8 & 22 | $3 if no dish

Food for Thought:

Summer Snacks and Beverages

Bring your favorite recipe to share.

1 p.m. | June 26 | Free Taco Social Feast on tacos while watching a movie.

5:30 p.m. | June 21 | $5

HIKES & TRIPS

Mica Mines Hike

Take an easy 3-mile roundtrip hike to the Williamson Mine, which operated until the 1950s. This hike is rated moderate due to one rocky section at the beginning/end of the trail. Meet at the Senior Center and follow each other to the trailhead.

8:30 a.m. | June 6 | $5

Montrose Museum Trip

Spend the day learning about local history at the Museum of the Mountain

West after a delicious lunch in Montrose. Meet at the Senior Center.

9:30 a.m. | June 7 | $80

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Explore the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and hike along Warner Point Nature Trail. Lunch and transportation included. Meet at the Senior Center.

8:30 a.m. | June 20 | $65

EDUCATION

AARP Driver Safety Course Register by calling 970-3149843.

1-5 p.m. | June 14

Super Foods

Learn about super foods in this free presentation by Humana.

9:45 a.m. | June 15 | Free

Senior Life Solutions

Learn about Family Health

West’s Senior Life Solutions program.

10:30 a.m. | June 16 | Free

GAMES

Scrabble

Make every letter count in this ultimate crossword game.

10 a.m. | June 1

Trivia

Test your knowledge and compete against others.

10 a.m. | June 5 & 12

Pinochle

Play with someone you know or join a table and meet new people.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

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

SENIOR CENTER EVENTS

Western Music Dance

Dance with friends at Grand Junction Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave.

10 a.m. | June 1 | 970-243-7408

ART

Take Part in Art

Participate in hands-on activities and learn about the many arts and culture organizations in the area. Activities include performances, games, arts, crafts, prizes and food vendors.

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | June 17 | Lincoln Park Barn Lawn | Free

FITNESS

Goat Yoga

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

8:30-10 a.m. | June 3 & 17 | Mesa County Fairgrounds Gazebo | $20

Line Dance

Choreographed dances taught to a variety of music. Next session is June 5-26.

12:15-2 p.m. | Mondays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6; $20 five-week session

Latin Salsa Dance

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

6-7 p.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6; $32 per session

Gentle Yoga

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

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

SPORTS

Splash Aqua Aerobics

Work out in the water with these moderately intense exercises. Silver Sneakers accepted

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

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

Open to adults 50 and older

8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

MONDAY

9:00 a.m. Cribbage & Games

10:00 a.m. Computer Classes

12:00 p.m. Canasta

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

WEDNESDAY 9:00 a.m. Games

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

THURSDAY 9:00 a.m. Games

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

June 2

Boot Stomp

CALENDAR Montrose & Delta

June 3-4

Stomp out cancer at Storm King Mountain Ranch! Narrow Gauge, one of Denver’s top-rated live country and classic rock bands, performs. This event supports the San Juan Cancer Center, which allows many local patients to receive care close to home.

5:30-10:30 p.m. | 70777 Buckhorn

Road, Montrose | $75 | bootstomp montrose.com | 970-901-6761

June 2

Chancey Williams & Neon Sky Band

Williams comes from the Grand Ole Opry stage to the Montrose Rotary Amphitheater stage in Cerise Park! Don’t miss one of country music’s rising stars and Montrose’s own Neon Sky Band.

6 p.m. | Shanes Way, Motrose | Free | visitmontrose.com | 970-497-8558

June 2-4

Black Canyon Classics Car Show

Hit up this car, truck and rod show at Cerise Park. There’s a silent auction, food and drink vendors, hourly drawings and a drive-in movie night. The proceeds benefit Second Chance Humane Society.

4:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-late Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Sunday | Shanes Way, Montrose | black canyonclassics.org

June 3

Rock Wranglers’ Rock Show

Rock hounds, rejoice! This indoor rock and mineral show at Bill Heddles Recreation Center features 30 vendors, dealers, demonstrations, door prizes, a silent auction, rock bags for sale and activities for children.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. | 531 N. Palmer St., Delta | Free | 970-856-3861

Western Region Pickleball Tournament

Pair up, paddle up and play pickleball! Men’s and women’s doubles play on Saturday and mixed doubles play on Sunday. 3.0 and 3.5 divisions play at the MRD Field House at 25 Colorado Ave. 4.0 and 4.5 divisions play at the MRD Community Recreation Center at 16350 Woodgate Road (behind Walmart).

8:30 a.m. | multiple locations | Free | montroserec.com | 970-249-7705

June 3

Freedom Festival

Golf Tournament

Summon your patriotic pride and play golf for the troops at The Bridges Golf & Country Club! This is the ninth annual fundraising tournament for Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m.

9 a.m. | 2500 Bridges Drive, Montrose | $100 | whafv.org | 970-765-2210

June 8

The Teller Institute lecture

Learn the eye-opening story of the Grand Junction Indian Boarding School that operated from 18861911. The U.S. government established hundreds of schools to strip Native children of their culture and language and isolate them from their tribes. It takes place at Pioneer Town.

6:30-7:30 p.m. | 388 S. Grand Mesa Drive, Cedaredge | $10 (free for members) | pioneertown.org | 970-856-7554

June 8-10

Crawford Pioneer Days

This year’s festival features a dessert

melodrama, baking contest, spaghetti dinner, live auction, 5K run, pancake breakfast, vendors, parade, outhouse races, music, kids’ games, a watermelon-eating contest and fireworks.

6:30 p.m. Thursday, 4:30-7 p.m. Friday, 8:30 a.m.-dusk Saturday | Crawford | Free | crawfordpioneer days.com

June 10

Bosom Buddies Cornhole

Practice your aim and prepare for this FUN-raiser tournament at the Montrose Recreation Center. Bosom Buddies has helped thousands affected by breast cancer—and there’s more help needed. Food and beer are available for purchase. Check-in starts at 9:30.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 16350 Woodgate Road, Montrose | $35 | bosombudd iesswc.org | 970-252-2777

June 14

June 15

Live at the Candle Factory: Bill O’Brien

Known as the Singing UPS Man, selftaught O’Brien plays for locals and visitors alike at various pop-up lunch locations around Paonia. Come early and enjoy happy hour at 5 p.m. 7-10 p.m. | 1842 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose | Free | bluecorncafemont rose.com | 970-626-3501

June 16

Night Ranger in Concert

This heavy-hitting ’80s rock band, with hits like “Sister Christian,” is still together and rockin’! Bring your camping chair to On the Lawn at the Bridges and take in their powerful songs. Food, beverages and alcohol may be purchased.

5:30-9:30 p.m. | 2500 Bridges Drive, Montrose | $40+ | events.ourtown matters.net | 970-765-0913

June 16

Bob DeJulio Retrospective & Reception

Roses: The good, the bad and the bugly

Is it possible to grow roses in a semi-arid climate? Presenter Melissa Schreiner thinks so, with some caveats. Learn the pros and cons of tending these sweet-smelling showstoppers at the Montrose Pavilion.

6:30-7:30 p.m. | 1800 Pvilion Drive, Montrose | Donations welcome | montrosegardens.org

June 15

Taking Care of the Uncompahgre River Valley

Hear from leaders of three organizations working to preserve and improve water conditions in the Uncompahgre River Watershed when they convene at the Montrose Regional Library.

1-2:30 p.m. | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | Free | lwv-uv.org | 970-249-9656

Drop by this reception at Montrose Center for Arts honoring Bob DeJulio’s artwork. Family and friends of DeJulio will share stories about the Western Slope art that he created during his life. His art is on display throughout June.

4:30-7:30 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | Free | montrosecenter forarts.com | 970-787-9428

June 17

Montrose Wine & Food Festival

Grab a friend, head to Cerise Park and support a local nonprofit while eating and drinking well, enjoying live music and bidding on silent auction items. All proceeds benefit the Black Canyon Boys & Girls Club.

1-5 p.m. | 410 Shanes Way, Montrose | $35+ | montrosewinefestival.com | 970-901-8688

June 17

The MAGIC of Live Theatre

Photographing Wildflowers

Capture the beauty of wildflowers through your camera lens with the help of Montrose photographer Jim Pisarowicz at Montrose Regional Library’s Community Meeting Room.

10:30-11:30 a.m. | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | montrosegardens.org | 970-249-9656

June 18

The MAGIC of Live Theatre

June 24

SINCE

BELLE AMHERSTT he

Voices of the Western Slope: Desert Dwellers

Learn about human history in a harshly enchanting land with local author Craig Childs at the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center. He will unpack the ancient Southwest’s ancestry with images of cliff dwellings, rock art and artifacts. A cash bar is available.

6-7 p.m. | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | $10 donation | gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

Rock the Block!

Play

Kick off summer at an old-fashioned block party at Main and Uncompahgre with food trucks, music, vendors, a nonprofit fair, kids zone and more! Disney’s “Moana’’ plays at sundown. It benefits Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans and the Black Canyon Boys & Girls Club.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Main St. & Uncompahgre St., Montrose | Free | buildinglives.org | 970-252-9303

June 24

Freedom Sings Benefit Concert

Montrose’s Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans hosts the fourth annual music therapy retreat for veterans at the Montrose Rotary Amphitheater stage in Cerise Park, featuring “HunterGirl.”

June 24

Hazel Miller & The Collective

Hear Colorado-based music icon Miller at Azura Cellars and Gallery! She “brings it” no matter the setting. Her powerful voice stands out in jazz, blues, R&B, soul, funk, dreamy love songs and popular music backed by her band.

7 p.m. | 16764 Farmers Mine Road, Paonia | $28 | bluesage.org | 970-527-7243

5:30 p.m. | Shanes Way, Montrose | $20-$50 | whafv.org | 970-765-2210

June 25

Ridgway Fête de la Musique

Support local musicians! Listen to live music from many genres: mariachi, harpists, local bands, bluegrass, electro funk, a youth symphony, community chorales and more. Bring cash for the beverage stations and food trucks—and to tip the artists!

4-9 p.m. | Ridgway Town Park | Free | sherbino.org | 970-318-0892 ■

SINCE

AMHERSTof

y Play

CLUBS Montrose & Delta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m. | 970-240-1755

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

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

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

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

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-986-2550 | lvcribbs@gmail.com

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center.

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

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

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

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

Montrose Library Book Club meets virtually. Email for link.

1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970-7650599 | mmaaflyer@gmail.com

Montrose Newcomers & Neighbors meets at Cedar Creek Church, 222 S. Townsend Ave., September through May.

1st Wednesdays | 10 a.m. | bethcav25@gmail.com

Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Dr. All ages welcome.

2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | $10 | sanjuandanceclub@ gmail.com

Montrose Single Seniors is a new group for active singles. 520-282-9060 | smilingangel10@ gmail.com

Montrose Woman’s Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse, 602 N. Nevada Ave., August-May. Bring lunch.

SUPPORT GROUPS

HopeWest Bereavement Book Club members heal through discussions about death and grief from various literature at Delta Library, 211 W. 6th St.

3rd Thursday | 2-4 p.m. | 970-8749630 | deltalibraries.org

Caregivers Support Group meets at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave.

2nd & 4th Mondays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-240-3714

Caregiver Support Group

Montrose meets at US Bank.

1 & 3 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 970-275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Delta meets at Delta County Memorial Hospital, meeting room A.

1 p.m. | 1st & 3rd Fridays | 970275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Virtual meets on Zoom. For link, contact Laird@Family-Caregiver.org.

10:30-11:30 a.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970-275-2138

COVID-19 Grief Group meets at Touch of Care, 1100 E. Main St., Montrose.

2nd & Last Tuesday | 12 p.m. | 970-787-9988

Dementia Caregivers Delta meets at Crossroads Senior Living, 1380 Aspen Way. Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-5100724

Dementia Caregivers Cedareddge meets at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Dementia Caregivers Hotchkiss meets at Town Hall, 276 Main St. 2nd & 4th Wednesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room, 1501 E. 3rd St. 2nd Tuesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Essential Tremor Support Group meets bimonthly at Montrose Regional Health’s conference room, 800 S. 3rd St. Call 405-205-9397

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Montrose Regional Health, 800 S. 3rd St. Last Monday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970252-2996

Stroke Support Group meets at Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way, Montrose. 1 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970765-2210

3rd Mondays | 11:30 a.m. | 970-9018743

Morningstar Therapy Dogs is a non-profit club made up of registered dog/handler teams promoting therapy dog programs and visits in the Montrose community.

2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-5969343 | morningstartherapydogs. weebly.com

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

Uncompahgre Treasure Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose, 602 N. Nevada.

7 p.m. | 2nd Monday | 970-258-1955 | uncompahgretreasureclub.com

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

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way.

Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-756-2210 | whafv.orgv ■

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Telluride Chamber Music Festival

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

TRIPS & TOURS

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

Crawford Pioneer Days

Watch the parade, outhouse races and melodrama in the park at the 44th annual Crawford Pioneer Days. There are multiple vendors and food on site. Bring money for lunch. Meet at the Field House.

7:45 a.m. | June 10 | $29

U-Pick/Float Trip

This tour begins with an orchard tour and U-pick experience at Honey Rock Landing Orchard, where the first two pounds of cherries are included. Then raft Dominguez & Escalante National Conservation Area, where guides will prepare a locally sourced organic lunch served riverside. Take out is at Bridgeport. Meet at the Field House for transport.

7:45 a.m. | June 11 | $149

Tour: Crawford Gems

Learn about yaks at Steer It Up Ranch in Crawford. Then tour The Lodge at Needle Rock, which offers 14 luxury suites with stunning views of Needle Rock and the West Elk Mountains, and the Smith Fork Ranch, an all-inclusive luxury ranch serving one group at a time. Bring money for lunch.

7:15 a.m. | June 13 | $29

Hike: Island Lake Trail

This easy 3.2-mile trail in Grand Mesa National Forest closely follows the south shoreline of Island Lake from the campground to Highway 65.

7:45 a.m. | June 22 | $20

This amazing program at the Palm Theatre features by Mozart, Prokofiev, Bartok, Vieuxtemps, Bunch, Zaretsky and Sheronick alongside the dancing talents of former Pilobolus members Casey Howes and Jacob Warren. Bring money for an early dinner. Meet at the Field House.

2:30 p.m. | June 25 | $43

Wine Tasting

Taste wine around Hotchkiss and Cedaredge at Storm Cellar, Mesa Winds, Williams Cellars and Stoney Mesa. Tasting fees vary by location. Bring money for tasting fees and lunch, or bring a sack lunch.

8:30 a.m. | June 29 & August 1 | $20

FITNESS

Tai Chi for Health & Energy

Tai Chi brings peace to the body, using controlled movements, weight transference, mental resistance and quietness of mind.

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

ART & MUSIC

Ceramics

Bring your own ceramic project or buy from us. Paints, finishing sprays and glazes provided.

12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | $15 per multi-month session | 970-424-4451

Crafters

Bring supplies and work on your project for free, or pay $20, which covers instruction and supplies for a three-month session.

12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | Free or $20 | 818-262-3272

Jam Session/Sing Along

Take turns picking and leading a song. Bring an acoustic instrument if you play! Spectators welcome.

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

Open Line Dancing

Learn line dancing steps with formal instruction.

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

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

GAMES

Pinochle

12:30-3:30 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Tuesday Needlers

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays

FITNESS

Dance Fit

Burn energy, shake stress and show off your dance moves!

4:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pilates

Low-impact movements that improve flexibility, muscular strength and endurance.

12 p.m. Mondays | 9 a.m. Fridays

Senior Circuit Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises.

9 a.m. | Monday through Friday

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa-style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre.

4:30 p.m. | Wednesdays

Healthy Body Strong Bones

Use simple hand weights to help increase flexibility, balance and bone strength.

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Classic Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Body Blitz

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class.

9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m.

Thursdays

Body Bar

Get an entire body workout using a weighted fitness bar.

6 a.m. | Wednesdays

POOL FITNESS

Aqua Movers

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

5:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pool Power

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas.

9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Body & Health

Enjoy a combination of aerobic and full-body workout in the pool.

10:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength, designed for beginners.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

A full-body workout with water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges.

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Silver Sneakers Splash

A fun shallow-water exercise class that uses a signature splash-board to increase movement. Suitable for non-swimmers.

8:30 a.m. | Mondays & Wednesdays

Fraud continues to snare

Colorado seniors

AARP reports that online crime targeting Colorado seniors continues to rise. In 2021, AARP says victims in Colorado lost more than $130 million to cybercriminals, as based on FBI records. That’s roughly double what the loss figure was in 2019. AARP says Colorado consistently ranks among the top 10 states for fraud reports related to online shopping and negative reviews of businesses with clearly deceptive practices. AARP ElderWatch Colorado also specifically points to scammers posing as wellknown retailers such as Amazon to bilk consumers out of their money. ElderWatch says it receives 200 to 300 fraud-reporting calls a month from Coloradans. To report fraud, visit stopfraudcolorado.gov or call AARP at 800-222-4444.

Enter Delta Libraries’ Change the World Writing Contest

Submit your story to the all-ages

Change the World Writing Contest this summer for a chance to get your work published! Submissions will be accepted June 1 through Friday, June 30. The winning entries in every age category will be published in the August edition of the High Country Spotlight! The writing

Region

Valley Symphony announces new music director

After a year-long search process, the Valley Symphony Association (VSA) Board of Directors announced Troy Raper of Grand Junction as their new music director and orchestra conductor. Raper, a musician, educator and Colorado native, holds a bachelor’s in music education from the University of Northern Colorado and a master’s degree in education from Lesley University. Raper spent 10 years as chair/ board member for the Colorado All State Orchestra Governing Board. He has also served as a board member of the Colorado Chapter of the American String Teachers Association, and as a member of the Colorado Music Educators Association state board. An accomplished musician with broad performing experience, Raper has played with orchestras and for festivals all over the west. He sits as principal bassist for the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra, and performs regularly in various jazz bands, recording studios and as a concert soloist. Raper’s first official performance with the VSA will be at the season 52 opener on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the annual “Pops in the Park” concert at the Montrose Amphitheater. Season and individual tickets are now available for the VSA’s 52nd season. For more information, call 970765-8323 or visit valleysymphony.net

prompt for adults is: Write a 600word story or essay about people coming together and communicating in a positive way. Stories may be fiction or nonfiction. Writing entries must be submitted online at deltalibraries.org. For help, call 970-399-7876.

Free True Grit Walking Tours in Ridgway begin June 2

Every Friday from June 2 to September 1, relive the exciting days in 1968 when Ridgway was transformed into Fort Smith, Arkansas, and John Wayne, Henry Hathaway, Robert Duval and Glen Campbell

came for the filming of “True Grit.”

Every Friday at 3 p.m. meet at the Hartwell Park gazebo in Ridgway, where a guide will escort you to downtown filming locations and share insights about the town’s film history and little known facts and anecdotes about the Duke. This tour was recognized by True West Magazine as Readers’ Choice for Best Historic Town Tour. For more information, call 469-682-9710.

Outdoor Summer Concert Series in CedaredgeAttend a free concert every Friday night this summer at the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St. in Cedaredge! Concerts start at 5:30 p.m. There’s a full-service cash bar. Just bring a lawn chair. For details, visit gmaec. org or call 970-856-9195.

• June 2 - Dana Cooper

• June 9 - Cup a Jo

• June 16 - Ken Gaines

• June 23 - The Last Spike

Delta Farmers Market opens June 3

It’s opening day—come out and celebrate! Browse local produce, eggs, meats, honey, breads, scones, cookies, jams, botanicals and more from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday this summer. The

Senior Volunteer Program

market takes place near Fifth Street and Meeker Street. Find more info on Facebook at Delta Colorado Farmers Market or call 970-6407810.

Montrose Farmers Market

Track down treasures and support local producers and artisans by purchasing locally grown produce, homemade goodies, hand-crafted jewelry and more at the only yearround market on the Western Slope. The Montrose Farmers Market takes place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday at 11 S. Uncompahgre Ave., Montrose. For more information, visit valleyfoodpartnership. org or call 970-249-0705.

Montrose Library and Arts

Center collaborate on Inner Covers Book Club

This every-other-month book club, brought to you by Montrose Regional Library and Montrose Center for the Arts, focuses on art and

artists! On June 10, discuss “The Passion of Artemisia,” a novel about an actual woman painter in postRenaissance Rome, while enjoying coffee and treats from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. at Montrose Center for the Arts, 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose. No registration or art experience necessary! Email adickinson@montroselibrary.org with questions or call 970-787-9428.

Strut your stuff at Bluecorn

Café open mic nights

Whatever your jam—music, storytelling, stand-up comedy, poetry or dance—the Bluecorn Cafe’s stage is ready for you! All levels and genres are welcome to perform from 6-9 p.m. on June 1 and 22 at 1842 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose. Gather your courage and perform, or show your support in the audience. For details, visit bluecorncafemontrose. com or call 970-626-3501.

Wildflowers of Colorado’s Western Slope presentations

Learn about Colorado wildflowers from local photographer Jim Pisarowicz during these two presentations in June. Call 970-249-9656 for details.

• June 3, 10 a.m. - Wildflower Photography Screening & Book Signing

Pisarowicz and Ridgway writer

Mary Menz will project stunning wildflower photos on the big screen at the Ute Indian Museum, 17253 Chipeta Road in Montrose, discuss the region’s native plants and sign their book, “Wildflowers of Colorado’s Western Slope” (available at the gift shop).

• June 17, 10:30 a.m. - Photographing Wildflowers

Capture the beauty of wildflowers through your camera lens with the help of Pisarowicz at the Montrose Library Community Room, 320 S. 2nd St ■

rubber hoop, become fatigued

4. Easter entrée

5. “Lord, is ___?”: Matthew

6. Out

7. Lubricant

8. Roman censor 9. Regret 10. Slanted 11. No longer fresh 12. Migraine 13. Switch suffix

14. Bears’ lairs

21. Precious stones

23. Vertical face of a stair

24. “___ She Lovely?”

25. ___ the hills

26. Summed

27. Very much

28. Farseeing

30. Descartes’s conclusion

32. Made public

33. “Family Ties” mom

35. Little laugh 37. Fret 39. Excavate 41. Utah lily 44. Fail to hit

Supported

Sewing instrument 51. Old-womanish 53. Song of praise 54. ___-Tass (Russian news agency) 55. Place for a ring 56. Some are pale 57. Z ___ zebra

58. Ancient Briton 59. Corner

61. Actress Sue ___ Langdon 63. Court fig. 64. Map abbreviation

CLASSES

FREE WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE INSTRUCTION. Because “NO MEANS NO!” Simple and effective methods to escape assault taught by a nationally certified black belt instructor with 4 decades of experience. Call Bob (no texts please) 970-261-2445. Leave your name and number and I’ll return your call.

EVENTS

Hazel Miller & The Collective on June 24th at 7PM. Azura Cellars, 16764 Farmers Mine Rd, Paonia. Presented by Blue Sage Center for the Arts. Bluesage.org, info@bluesage.org, or 970-527-7243.

FOR SALE

1987 BMW 325es, bronzit color, leather seats, power windows, sunroof, manual transmission, under 90,000 Miles, mostly original, no rust, meticulously cared for & garaged. All paperwork, 1-owner. Collector quality, must see to believe! Colorado Springs. 719-548-8666.

FOR SALE

Goldenwoods Condominiums at Powderhorn Resort deeded timeshare. Always during week 52 (ChristmasNew Years). Right on the slopes, 1 bedroom, 1 large bathroom and a pull-out couch. $2500; HOA $450. Please text 970-201-3945

RETIRING: Selling doll molds and all supplies. Would take down payment and payment plan. 970-778-8075.

HOME SERVICES

ABSTRACT WINDOWS LLC, 970-3124717 Need your windows cleaned? give us a call or text. Residential and Commercial Window Cleaning. Serving Mesa County. Quality Work. Reasonable Rates. Free Estimates. Licensed and Insured. Senior and Veteran Discounts Available

HOME SERVICES

Uncompahgre Valley Home Care Private Duty Nursing in your Home Done your way! Skilled and non-skilled. 32 Years of Nursing Experience. www. uncompahgrevalleyhomecare.com Call Cyndi at 970-208-3321

Looking for a contractor to remodel your home, or have damages that need repair? VanGundy Construction offers quality work at a competitive price. Whether it’s tile work, drywall repairs, new flooring installation, or door replacement. We’ve got you covered. Contact us 24/7 for a free quote. Call Quinton VanGundy at 970296-4853

KETTLE ELECTRIC New construction, remodeling, inspections, and troubleshooting. Reasonable prices. 970-241-4825.

REAL

We buy houses, any condition, any situation. 970-316-2488.

SERVICES

Pat's Hair Salon

SERVICES

Pat's Hair Salon

Shampoo Sets, Blow Drys, Hair Cuts

Shampoo Sets, Blow Drys, Hair Cuts

Great Prices on Perms

Great Prices on Perms

Senior Discounts

Senior Discounts

970-778-8075

970-778-8075

Hair on Wheels at your door. Barbering, haircuts, color, all your hair needs. Senior Discounts. Call Melodie 970-201-0267.

Hair on Wheels at your door. Barbering, haircuts, color, all your hair needs. Senior Discounts. Call Melodie 970-201-0267.

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES INC. Your needs Delivered. Join the many other Grand Junction area business owners who are utilizing our efficient restocking services. Rags, floor care, hand care, packing material, paper products, respiratory, gloves, eye protection, ear protections, and head gear, restocking all bathroom needs. Most everything you need for safety, cleaning and bathroom. Bi-weekly or Monthly restocking 970-434-9440

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES INC. Your needs Delivered. Join the many other Grand Junction area business owners who are utilizing our efficient restocking services. Rags, floor care, hand care, packing material, paper products, respiratory, gloves, eye protection, ear protections, and head gear, restocking all bathroom needs. Most everything you need for safety, cleaning and bathroom. Bi-weekly or Monthly restocking 970-434-9440

SERVICES

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

SENIOR BEAUTY SPECIAL. First-time clients receive $10 off single service, $15 off cut and color packages. Regan’s Regal Beauty, 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction. Call Regan to schedule: 719-425-0543

HEALTH & WELLNESS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

MONTROSE/DELTA MESA COUNTY

MONTROSE/DELTA MESA COUNTY

ADRC - SOS: Provide rides to homebound seniors. Apply at htop.org/ volunteer or call 970-248-2746.

ADRC - SOS: Provide rides to homebound seniors. Apply at htop.org/ volunteer or call 970-248-2746.

Montrose Library: Sort donated books and run book sales. Apply at montroselibrary.org/support-mrld or call 970-249-9656.

Montrose Library: Sort donated books and run book sales. Apply at montroselibrary.org/support-mrld or call 970-249-9656.

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.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR DAYS IN MONTROSE AND GRAND JUNCTION. Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting. Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visit www. healthychoicesunltd.com.

WANTED TO BUY

WANTED TO BUY

USED BOOKS BUY, SELL OR TRADE. Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders. 970-2423911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Tues-Sat. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

USED BOOKS BUY, SELL OR TRADE. Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders. 970-2423911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Tues-Sat. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

BANK ON CLASSIFIEDS to turn your want ads into dollars! BEACON Classifieds 970-243-8829, x102

BANK ON CLASSIFIEDS to turn your want ads into dollars! BEACON Classifieds 970-243-8829, x102

Do you love photography? Do you love seniors?

Do you love photography? Do you love seniors?

Do you love the BEACON?

Do you love the BEACON?

If you answered “yes,” the BEACON is looking for you! We need talented freelance photographers who have an eye for detail, color and composition. Submit a letter of interest, résumé and samples of your photography to:

If you answered “yes,” the BEACON is looking for you! We need talented freelance photographers who have an eye for detail, color and composition. Submit a letter of interest, résumé and samples of your photography to:

Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

Puzzle Answers

A Little Help: Help older adults with home projects. Apply at alittlehelp. org/volunteering; call 970-404-1923.

A Little Help: Help older adults with home projects. Apply at alittlehelp. org/volunteering; call 970-404-1923.

Ariel Clinical Services: Be a host home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Call 970-245-1616.

Ariel Clinical Services: Be a host home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Call 970-245-1616.

Community Hospital: Support the hospital in varying positions. Contact codell@gjhosp.org or 970-644-3541.

Community Hospital: Support the hospital in varying positions. Contact codell@gjhosp.org or 970-644-3541.

Food Bank of the Rockies has volunteer shifts available. Contact foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer or 970-464-1138.

Food Bank of the Rockies has volunteer shifts available. Contact foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer or 970-464-1138.

Grand Junction Visitor Center: Welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Contact matthewh@gjcity.org or 970256-4054.

Grand Junction Visitor Center: Welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Contact matthewh@gjcity.org or 970256-4054.

Hilltop’s Senior Life Options: Help enrich the lives of senior residents. Apply at htop.org/volunteer or call 970-244-0659.

Hilltop’s Senior Life Options: Help enrich the lives of senior residents. Apply at htop.org/volunteer or call 970-244-0659.

Lower Valley Heritage Room: Help preserve Fruita history. Call 970-8583868.

Lower Valley Heritage Room: Help preserve Fruita history. Call 970-8583868.

Master Gardeners: Teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. Apply at tra.extension.colostate.edu or call 970-244-1834.

Master Gardeners: Teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. Apply at tra.extension.colostate.edu or call 970-244-1834.

Meals on Wheels: Deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. Call 970-298-9844.

Meals on Wheels: Deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. Call 970-298-9844.

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. View available positions and apply at mesacountyrsvp. org or call 970-243-9839.

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. View available positions and apply at mesacountyrsvp. org or call 970-243-9839.

Operation Interdependence: Hand write notes for deployed U.S. military men and women. Contact carley@ oidelivers.org or 970-523-4217.

Operation Interdependence: Hand write notes for deployed U.S. military men and women. Contact carley@ oidelivers.org or 970-523-4217.

Palisade Historical Society: Share Palisade history and work on committees. Call 970-464-2177.

Palisade Historical Society: Share Palisade history and work on committees. Call 970-464-2177.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society: Walk dogs, socialize cats, transport pets, help with events and more. Apply at rhhumanesociety.org/volunteer.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society: Walk dogs, socialize cats, transport pets, help with events and more. Apply at rhhumanesociety.org/volunteer.

Send

Golden Circle Seniors: Help seniors at the Montrose Senior Center. Call 970-252-4888.

Golden Circle Seniors: Help seniors at the Montrose Senior Center. Call 970-252-4888.

Morningstar Therapy Dogs: Registered dog handlers and their pets visit nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and schools. Call 970-5969343 to learn more.

Morningstar Therapy Dogs: Registered dog handlers and their pets visit nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and schools. Call 970-5969343 to learn more.

Museum of the Mountain West: Tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. Contact 970-240-3400.

Museum of the Mountain West: Tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. Contact 970-240-3400.

Region 10 - RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions in Delta and Montrose counties. Contact jwalker@region10. net or 970-765-3147.

Region 10 - RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions in Delta and Montrose counties. Contact jwalker@region10. net or 970-765-3147.

Region 10 - SHIP Help other seniors navigate Medicare. Training provided. Contact jwalker@region10.net or 970-765-3147.

Region 10 - SHIP Help other seniors navigate Medicare. Training provided. Contact jwalker@region10.net or 970-765-3147.

Senior CommUnity Meals: Help sort and deliver meals to homebound seniors. Call 970-874-7661.

Senior CommUnity Meals: Help sort and deliver meals to homebound seniors. Call 970-874-7661.

Sharing Ministries Food Bank: Greet clients, pick up/drop off food, stock shelves and help in the office and at events. Apply at sharingministries. com/help/volunteer or 970-240-8385.

Sharing Ministries Food Bank: Greet clients, pick up/drop off food, stock shelves and help in the office and at events. Apply at sharingministries. com/help/volunteer or 970-240-8385.

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. Apply at timebankofthe rockies.com/membership.html or call 970-209-6886.

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. Apply at timebankofthe rockies.com/membership.html or call 970-209-6886.

Valley Symphony Association: Support local musicians who bring classical music to life. Contact info@ valleysymphony.net or 970-765-8323.

Valley Symphony Association: Support local musicians who bring classical music to life. Contact info@ valleysymphony.net or 970-765-8323.

Welcome Home Alliance: Support local veterans. See current needs at whafv.org/volunteer.html or call 970765-2210.

Welcome Home Alliance: Support local veterans. See current needs at whafv.org/volunteer.html or call 970765-2210.

Nature isn’t a museum

By Wyatt Verlen

Americans are increasingly approaching nature with a “look but don’t touch” mindset and losing a fundamental part of their national identity in the process.

Tourists are trekking to national parks in record numbers. In fact, some parks now require reservations to manage the number of visitors and protect sensitive ecosystems.

Yet while the number of people flocking to get a glimpse at wildlife is increasing, the share of Americans who hunt, fish and forage—who touch, rather than just look—has been declining for decades. Just 4.6% of Americans bought a hunting license in 2020, down from 7.7% in 1960. Only 8.8% bought a fishing license, down from 10.6% in 1960.

This slide is concerning, because an immersive relationship with nature has always been foundational to our national identity. George Washington relieved his stress from presiding over the Constitutional Convention by going fishing. Teddy Roosevelt, the father of the conservation movement, sought to preserve open spaces and thereby prevent America from turning into Europe, where hunting—and the primal connection with nature it offers—was a privilege reserved only for the rich.

Of course, in 100 years, there will still be forests and wildlife in the U.S., even if the population continues growing rapidly.

But with a population anywhere from 500 million to a full billion (if open borders truly become a reality), it will be impossible for millions of hunters, fisherman and foragers to enjoy the same routine interactions with nature that they have today. A country so densely populated would need far more regulations on what can be used and what must be left “undisturbed” in natural settings.

Not long ago, I found a beautiful

patch of Chanterelle mushrooms that spread as far as the eye could see. I was forbidden by the local forest department to take home a few to enjoy for supper.

I understand why the prohibition is in effect. If everyone did the same, there would be no more Chanterelles. But it’s a shame that simply gathering mushrooms— something that previous generations took for granted—is no longer an option for many Americans.

Many so-called “growthers” argue that population density is the solution to dealing with ongoing population growth. And it’s true that dense development is more environmentally friendly than uncontrolled urban sprawl. But it doesn’t solve anything in the long term. More natural resources are needed to support more people, and that means developing open spaces for food production, warehousing, transportation networks, waste disposal and designated “nature preserves,” where humans can look but not touch.

Nobody wants to see inhumane treatment of immigrants seeking a better life. But given that immigration is the driving cause of population growth, a firm, rational policy on the issue—one that cuts the number of people moving to the U.S. each year to a sustainable number—is necessary for future generations to enjoy our natural resources. Our current policy of de facto open borders is an ecological, economic and political catastrophe.

How many people can we sustainably admit each year into this country while maintaining open access to our resources? Americans who love the great outdoors have a right—and a duty—to start that conversation. ■

Wyatt Verlen is a lifelong outdoorsman and passionate conservationist. This piece originally appeared in the Detroit News.

What are your choices?

Some people immediately opt for surgery. Some people see a commercial on TV and buy something they wrap their knee with hoping it will help. Others just follow their doctor’s orders and take medications to block the pain signals while the underlying conditions often continue to progress and worsen.

What works best?

There are a lot of ways to TREAT your knee pain, but which one really works?

If you’ve done your research, you know that there are not a lot of things that really work when it comes to actually helping align the knee and reduce pain and swelling.

What if there was a “real solution” that worked from day one?

Compass Medical Center stumbled upon a new one-of-a-kind device at a recent medical conference called the Krullaards® Perfect Reset (K.P.R.) machine.

I was experiencing some knee problems in my “good knee” that was affecting my ability to go up and down stairs and to officiate sports, which I have done for the majority of my life and is something I truly enjoy.

I went to Compass Medical Center and saw immediate improvement from DAY ONE. It’s consistently improved to where I am experiencing little to no knee pain. My good knee actually feels like a GOOD KNEE again! I would strongly encourage anyone having knee pain to consider this program instead of surgeries or those “wonderful drugs” because this has been a permanent fix for me without drugs or surgery. I am very happy I found this program!

~ David K.

We’re not guaranteeing a miracle if you haven’t walked in many years, but this treatment may offer you the relief you’ve been looking for.

Compass Medical Center can possibly help you:

● Reduce your knee pain

● Increase your mobility

● Walk and move better

● Decrease stiffness

● Get up and down better

● Get out of chairs easier

● Get you back to doing the things you enjoy most in life

“What if my knee(s) are BONE ON BONE?”

This may be the exact treatment you’ve been needing. You’ll find the K.P.R. is an amazing machine when combined with our other in-office treatments.

Will this work for YOU?

If you’re like most of our patients, you know that knee problems aren’t going to go away on their own. The staff at Compass Medical Center has a reputation for getting great results and are well known for our personalized care. We don’t promise miracles, but we will do everything in our power to help improve your condition.

For a LIMITED TIME, Compass Medical Center is offering TRIAL VISIT which includes a consultation and knee examination for

ONLY $49

We’ll know almost IMMEDIATELY if we can help, and most importantly, YOU WILL TOO!

Take action TODAY!

This Trial Offer goes away at the end of the month. It’s only available with this hard deadline because we have a very limited number of trial spots available.