September 2020

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

SEPTEMBER 2020

The Era of Isolation

Protection from the virus comes at a cost You voted, now find out who won the 2020 BEACON Volunteer of the Year. Winner announced on page 10!

24

The challenge of Grandparents raising grandkids

26

Caring for your pets during COVID-19

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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4 | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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IN THIS ISSUE

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication September 2020 | Volume 33 | Issue 9

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Managing Editor Cloie Sandlin Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg Graphic Designers Chrissy Martin B. Bigler Office Manager Stacey Splude Advertising Executives Debra Romaniec Siggie Carpenter Melodie Simon Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Cora Gentry Lauren VanGundy JR Milner

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

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month. Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication.

Display advertising rates are available upon request. © Copyright 2020 • All Rights Reserved

10 7 Editor’s Column 8 Cover Story The cruelty of quarantine

On the Cover

33 Talking Digital: Bonding with grandkids over technology 34 Post-COVID jobs for seniors

10 Volunteer of the Year: Ed Wacker

36 Women, get free help with your health

12 Recipe: Coconut Curry Shrimp Rice Bowl

37 Grandmothers: a legacy of love and raisin bread

13 Ask the Old Bag: I’m sick of dating virtually

38 Art on Glade Park

14 Healthy Geezer: Is thyroid disease treatable?

15 Dear Pharmacist 16 Where’s all the meat?

More ways to get protein into your diet 18 Laughing Matters 21 Female problems!

22 Alive & Digging: Prep your garden for changing seasons 24 Grandparents raising grandchildren 26 Caring for your pets during COVID-19 28 Insuring your travel in pandemic times 32 Faith: Are you a settler?

Let Freedom Ring!

Mass shut downs due to the pandemic have created a deep social isolation among the elderly in senior long-term care facilities.

26 38

Register to vote, learn about candidates and review ballot initiatives at the We The People Freedom Rally on September 7 in Grand Junction. Mesa County Commissioner Rose Pugliese, Colorado House Representative Janice Rich and congressional candidate Lauren Boebert speak at 11:45 a.m. at Lincoln Park.

40 Mesa County 40 Calendar 42 Clubs & Activities 44 Beacon Bits 45 Question of the Month 46 Support Groups 48 Montrose & Delta Counties 48 Calendar 50 Clubs & Activities 51 Question of the Month 52 Beacon Bits 54 Fun & Games 57 Opinion: The growing hazard of “distracted walking” 58 Classifieds

The year without grandparents Disclaimer: If the first part of this column sounds familiar, it’s because it was originally published in last year’s September issue. Aside from it bringing up pleasant memories of my own grandparents, I’ve chosen to rerun it (with a few updates) because it’s important to celebrate the grandparents who do so much for us.

I

t’s strange to think that I don’t have any grandparents.

My grandfather, Earl (“Pawpaw” to me), was my last living grandparent. He died in February last year. As a kid, I never pictured life without my grandparents. Their influence on my life was immeasurable.

Good grandparents are the people who fill in the parenting blanks. My paternal grandparents helped raise me (they kept me in line), while my maternal grandparents spoiled me with bedtime stories and songs (my pawpaw was a brilliant jokester). Grandparents are some of the most important people in their grandchildren’s lives, and I was fortunate to know all of them and to have them for as long as I did.

Yes, grandparents are THAT important. On National Grandparents Day, which is September 13, please let these important role models know just how much they mean to you. And for you grandparents out there, thank you for your love, patience and wisdom. Your guidance and encouragement lasts a lifetime.

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDKIDS If any grandparents deserve praise, it’s the women featured in this month’s story about grandparents taking on the challenges of raising grandkids (see page 24). Although most retirement incomes don’t accommodate for the needs of growing children, these women fought to provide a better life for their grandkids despite their own physical and economic challenges.

Above: My sisters and me with my maternal grandparents, Von and Earl Wright. Below: My paternal grandparents, Ruth and J.B. Sandlin.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Each year, the BEACON honors volunteers who make our world a better place. Ed Wacker, the winner of this year’s Volunteer of the Year award, was chosen by BEACON readers who were inspired by his dedication to veterans at the Grand Junction VA Hospital.

Read more about Ed on page 10.

Congratulations to the nine other outstanding volunteers nominated for this award!

Even though our plans to publicly recognize you were derailed, we appreciate your selfless dedication to help make the Western Slope a better place to live! We also have awards we’d love to present to you! We’ll get in touch with you shortly, or you can set up an appointment by calling us at 243-8829. ■

EDITOR'S COLUMN

LETTERS

from our readers Regarding “Face masks: Opposing viewpoints” “You may have unnecessarily caused some seniors to question wearing a mask with your pro and con mask-wearing articles. The WHO, CDC, AMA and worldwide medical researchers, scientists and experts say the same thing: wear a mask! Also, it’s mandated, thus a moot point. Bonnie McCune’s article is an opinion piece without published validity fact-checking. I thought her article was rebellious, shallow, lacked substance, lackadaisical and cavalier. Her article cast doubt on what we currently and accurately know. Dr. Fauci certainly knows more than a lay writer. We are the most vulnerable age category and seniors tend to believe what they read.”

- Tom C. Kelley “What a ridiculous and irresponsible article!

This plants doubt in people’s minds about the proven effectiveness of mask wearing, and puts the health of the elderly and high-risk population you serve in jeopardy. Requiring people to wear a face mask when in public during this war on COVID-19 is asking very little compared to the sacrifices people made during World War II.” - Robert G. Regarding “Selfish bastards” “Readers, please do not believe that all Christians feel the same way as Mr. Ralston.

It was implied that Gov. Polis is not a Christian because if he was, he wouldn’t have gotten upset and said what he did. In fact, he is Christian, and just like Jesus did, he got angry—an emotion very appropriate when you are trying to protect the people of your state from getting coronavirus and dying when they aren’t listening. His motive was to get people’s attention about the seriousness of wearing masks, when softer tactics didn’t seem to be doing the trick. The Christian thing to do would be to take a nonjudgmental view and note Gov. Polis was being a strong leader.”

- Melanie W. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Cloie Sandlin, Managing Editor

Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com Mail: P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

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COVER STORY

The cruelty of

quarantine A daughter’s search for compassion amid a pandemic

By Melanie Wiseman

EVEN THOUGH IT WAS MEANT TO PROTECT RESIDENTS’ HEALTH, THE QUARANTINE DID THE OPPOSITE.

U

ntil recently, the COVID-19 pandemic was a mere inconvenience. I still biked, hiked, camped and enjoyed small socially distanced gatherings with friends. Everything changed when my mother’s health suddenly and rapidly declined in a Wisconsin independent living apartment 1,200 miles away.

My siblings and I were now among the thousands of families being kept away from fragile loved ones when they needed us most.

Our parents were prisoners to the virus.

HEALTH IS WHOLENESS On March 11, two days after celebrating my dad’s 94th birthday, their independent living facility went into lockdown. My plane ticket to visit the following week would have to wait. Never did I imagine I’d be flying out two months later, just

Mom and I sharing one of many happy memories at Whitefish Lake in northern Wisconsin.

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to watch my mother through her bedroom window with tears in her eyes, arms outstretched, longing to give me a hug.

Even though it was meant to protect residents’ health, the quarantine did the opposite. With her heart weakening, lack of movement and exercise meant fluid filled Mom’s legs and around her lungs, and tethered her to an oxygen machine.

Meals were brought to my parents’ room, and all in-person socialization with friends and family came to a halt. They became depressed and anxious, with little to look for-

ISOLATION TOOK AWAY ANY QUALITY OF LIFE MY MOM HAD LEFT. ward to. The only people they had personal contact with were masked facility staff.

“Health is wholeness—the total wellbeing of the person,” said Dad. “There is physical pain and there is emotional pain.”

Their wholeness was not being cared for. Isolation took away any quality of life my mom had left.

Each time I called my parents would say, “At least we have each other.

We think of all the people going through this alone.”

SEARCHING FOR COMPASSION By the time Dad ultimately said, “Come home,” I had just over a week with Mom before she died.

Each day, I pleaded with the facility director to be able to physically and freely hug, hold and comfort them both. Every day I was told, “No.” From behind windows, screens and iron fences, I watched as my mom, now a shadow of herself, was comforted by those who were strangers to me. These “strangers” then went home to their families and friends, while my mom’s own family stood outside.

My father was by my mother’s side at all times, exhausted, but extremely attentive. His being there was our only consolation as anger and frustration built up among us children and grandchildren.

Fortunately, Mom knew what was happening and was at peace, which was the greatest gift she could give us. In return, we wanted to grant her deepest desire: the ability to hold her family. We’d been denied for months; surely at the end of her life, compassion would prevail over rules.

But even as a hospice team was called, we were denied entry. The facility told us that when our mom was “actively dying”—within 48

My parents celebrating my dad’s 94th birthday just days before their independent living facility locked down because of the pandemic. hours of her death—family would be allowed to visit two at a time.

But they never called it. We did.

After we’d visited Mom in the morning on June 11, my sister, her daughter and I recognized the nearness of my mom’s passing and pressed harder than ever to be allowed to spend time with her. The three of us were finally given one hour that afternoon. We used that hour to its fullest, taking off our masks when staff left the room and watching Mom light up like a Christmas tree as she saw our smiles and faces. We listened closely to her fading voice and reminisced over photos of her life growing up on a farm in Michigan.

“When I was a young person, I thought a lot about what my purpose was, and then I met your dad, and I knew. We would do it together,” she said. “I no longer have a purpose, but now it’s you kids’ and grandkids’ turn to take over for us.”

When the hour was up, my sister and I each gave her a hug and told her how much we loved her. As we went to leave, she quietly called me back.

“I need another hug,” she said.

I tearfully complied at length and once again we told each other, “I

love you.”

I assured her we would see her tomorrow morning. But there was no tomorrow. My mother, beautiful both inside and out, died in her sleep that night.

THE PRICE OF PROTECTION Why, you might ask, would I choose to share such a personal experience?

Because this story is happening every day, all over the world. Facilities are “protecting” people from the virus, but at what cost?

The distressing end to lives from COVID or amid its restrictions is hard to fathom, but it’s very real.

Families who just want to hold their dying loved ones face a moment in history where isolation reigns and liability overrules compassion.

I strongly believe that my mom’s death came quicker, not from heart failure, but from a broken heart.

Did she die from COVID? No. Did she die much sooner because of it?

Absolutely. My father agreed that the isolating confinement caused by the pandemic both rushed her death and was an undeniably cruel way to die.

“It’s time for me to grieve and adjust after falling in love with your mom every day for the last 72 years,” Dad said. “There isn’t a normal way to do that in this current situation.”

Sadly, the cruelty continues.

The day after my mother died, Dad went back to being alone in their apartment, with no visitors. He FaceTimes with his children and grandchildren, but it’s no substitute for stimulating contact and social communication. He can’t leave the facility except for essential appointments. A “prisoner” once again. ■ In loving memory of Wilma Katherine Baumbach July 27, 1930 - June 12, 2020

From behind windows and screens, my family and I watched as my Mom, now a shadow of herself, was comforted by those who were strangers to me.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Volunteer of the Year 2020

Volunteering is a natural fit

Readers select veteran Ed Wacker for Volunteer of the Year

By Melanie Wiseman

E

very Tuesday and Thursday, a ray of sunshine illuminates Grand Junction’s VA Hospital. His name is Ed Wacker, and he’s this year’s BEACON Volunteer of the Year.

“His contagious smile brightens our hallways as he greets patients and staff,” said Tami Bunch, Volunteer Services Manager. “With close to 200 volunteers at the VA, it’s hard for staff to get to know all of the volunteers, but everyone knows Ed.” Bunch boasted that Wacker is dependable, optimistic, cheerful and always willing to help others.

He’s such a good talker, it’s recommended you allow plenty of time for his visits. After volunteering at the VA for 10 years, Wacker has racked up over 5,500 hours!

A veteran himself, Wacker found volunteering at the VA to be a natural fit. He enjoys the camaraderie of other veterans and has reconnected with old friends—some after 40 years. Wacker runs the interoffice mail twice a day, takes samples to the lab or emergency room, escorts patients who have a difficult time getting around and performs any other necessary errands.

“I try to maintain conversation with people and help them relax and find comfort in a hospital atmosphere, which can be a stressful time,” said Wacker, 76.

Wacker served in the Marine Corp from 1961-1965. His service

Ed Wacker was nominated for the BEACON’s 2020 Volunteer of the Year award by Tami Bunch with the Grand Junction VA Hospital. included two six-month tours in Cuba—once in 1961 after the Bay of Pigs and again in 1963. He remembers Cuba shutting off the water to the base in 1963, forcing the U.S. to quickly build a desalinization plant for the soldiers.

“We were not aware of the political stuff going on. We just waited on base to be called to alert,” said Wacker.

His job as an artillery repairman required a lot of traveling, particularly in East Asia. From the Philippines to Japan—including his 19th birthday on Mt. Fuji—Wacker covered a lot of territory. Fortunately, he finished his service before the

“VOLUNTEERING FEELS NATURAL TO ME, BUT BEING AT THE VA ENHANCES THAT. IT’S SUCH A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT THAT’S FULL OF GOOD ATTITUDES.” 10 | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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Vietnam War escalated.

In 1975, Wacker and his wife, Beverly, moved their family from Pennsylvania to Colorado “on a whim,” seeking a better quality of life. He spent the beginning of his career mining for oil shale, and the

latter 18 years surveying for the City of Grand Junction.

In addition to volunteering for the VA, Wacker helps Colorado Parks and Wildlife rescue animals that are injured or out of their normal habitat by transporting them to veterinarians or rehabilitation sites.

When he’s not volunteering, he enjoys most outdoor activities, including biking, fishing and hunting.

“Volunteering feels natural to me, but being at the VA enhances that,” said Wacker. “It’s such a positive environment that’s full of good attitudes. It enlightens my character.”

On volunteer days, Wacker tracks 8,000-10,000 steps. He enjoys the exercise since he wants to stay fit and mobile.

When the pandemic hit, the biggest challenge of the three-monthlong volunteer furlough for Wacker was missing the veterans.

“If you’re a people person, the VA is a great place to be,” said Wacker. “You’ll find new appreciation for your own life through the opportunity to serve.” ■

From left: VA Western Colorado Health Care System Executive Director Richard Salgueiro, Ed Wacker and Voluntary Services Officer Tami Bunch.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Honoring our outstanding volunteer nominees WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER? Karen Hughes, Nominated by Megan Tillotson, Roice-Hurst Humane Society “The love of animals, the camaraderie of the volunteers and all they do for the animals. Roice-Hurst is an outstanding organization for the animals and they’re good to their volunteers. At one point, I was doing all the thank-you donation letters and follow-up adoption letters. I’m probably most wellknown for sending over 600 letters during the holiday season.”

Randy Cook, Nominated by Crystal Brink, Mantey Heights Rehabilitation & Care Centre “I just really enjoy being with the residents and giving them a smile on their face. Because of where they’re at—at the nursing home—a lot of them are bedridden. I try to brighten their day. Finally, after three months of staying away [due to COVID], the residents kept demanding that I come back...which made my day.”

Make your heart happy St. Mary’s Senior Companion Program is experiencing growth, and we want you to be a part of that! Our team of “Fabulous-Over-55” volunteers spend time each day helping those in our community who need it most by helping seniors who no longer drive take care of necessary errands while building lasting friendships. When you join us as a Senior Companion volunteer, you get so much back, too! Hugs, smiles, appreciation, great conversation — all of these are priceless. And if you’re on a fixed income, you might qualify for our non-taxable stipend, too!

We’d love to help you figure out where you’d fit in.

We need volunteers in all areas of the Grand Valley, from Fruita to Palisade.

Call today to apply!

(970)298-9092

Foster Grandparents Senior Companions

Cathy Thomas, Nominated by Diane Barger, Mesa County RSVP “I volunteer because there’s a need in the community for volunteers. I feel that I have a lot to give and why shouldn’t I share that? And it’s a way to meet people. I like to get out. It keeps me busy and out of trouble. Getting out meeting people and helping others keeps me young.”

Barb K., Nominated by Amy Neil, STEAM at Tope Elementary “I really enjoy working with the kids. Being a volunteer is beneficial all the way around: to the community, to me, to the teacher, and to the kids. I really appreciate my teacher [Amy Neil]. She’s just top notch, and does a great job for the kids. I also want to put a plug in for the Foster Grandparents program through St. Mary’s Hospital, which placed me in the school and gives monthly trainings.”

Nominated volunteers not pictured: Laurie Buniger (Museums of Western Colorado), Jerry Johnson (HopeWest), Tricia Powell (Hilltop Community Resources), Deborah Thompson (Shelledy Elementary), and Becky Walker (Grand Valley Pets Alive). ■ See a list of volunteer opportunities on page 45 (Mesa County) and 53 (Montrose-Delta)

Here to support you through life’s most difficult times so you can focus on what’s most important – each other.

HOSPICE | PALLIATIVE CARE | GRIEF SUPPORT As a nonprofit, HopeWest has been serving our communities for 27 years.

Through creativity, volunteerism, and philanthropy, we profoundly change the experiences of aging, illness, and grief – one family at a time.

(970) 241-2212 • HopeWestCO.org WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

11

RECIPES

Top rated Asian Restaurant in the Grand Valley

SANG GA GAR R DE N Authentic Chinese and Thai Cuisine

Your health and safety is our priority We are currently only open for

Coconut Curry Shrimp Rice Bowl

Call us to place your order

Coconut Rice

Take out or Delivery

970-242-2396

SUN - THUR 11 am - 9:30 pm • FRI - SAT 11 am - 10 pm 687 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction

970.628.4044

Recipe courtesy of Always Eat After 7 PM

Ingredients:

2 cups jasmine rice 11/2 cups water 1 can (14 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk 1 teaspoon sea salt Directions: In pot over high heat, combine jasmine rice, water, coconut milk and sea salt; bring to boil. Stir and cover, reducing heat to low. Cook 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

Shrimp Curry

Ingredients: SouThwest at its BesT

1 1 2 1 1 1/2 1/2 1 1/4 1/4

OPEN SUN - THURS

11am to 8pm OPEN FRI & SAT

11am to 9pm 421 Brach Drive | GJ Close to downtown Grand Junction and a convenient stop to and from the Colorado National Monument and the Redlands.

{

HAPPY

2 pounds uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined

HOUR

Directions: In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.

Add onion and bell peppers; saute until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add garlic and cook 1 minute.

EVERY DAY 2pm thru 7pm

www.lacabracantina.com

12 | RECIPES | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

tablespoon olive oil large onion, finely chopped bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped tablespoon garlic, minced can (8 ounces) tomato sauce cup chicken broth cup minced fresh cilantro teaspoon curry teaspoon sea salt teaspoon ground black pepper

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Stir in tomato sauce, broth, cilantro, curry, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in shrimp. Cook 5-7 minutes until shrimp turns pink. Remove from heat and serve over coconut rice. â–

ASK THE OLD BAG

I’m sick of dating virtually Dear Old Bag: I read your answer to the woman who realized she was in a miserable relationship for 40 years and wanted out. I am in a similar marriage, and I want to leave this miserable man. I talked to my adult kids about it, and they are dead set against it. They say, “Mom, it’s too late. Dad won’t know what to do without you.” I say, “What about me?”

They said that I am a strong woman and I can manage anything. So, am I supposed to stay put because he won’t know what to do? He is mean enough to manage! Help! Signed, Fed Up

Designe df Active A or dults (

OF GRAND JUNCTION

Ages 62 +

CALL TO ) DAY!

Dear Fed Up: There’s a strange thing that happens as we age: Our kids seem to take on the parenting role and think they know what is better for us! As long as you have all your marbles and your thinking process is intact, you should make your own decisions. Perhaps you could do a dry run? Leave him for a month and see how you both feel. He may come to new realizations about his behavior, and you might think misery is better than loneliness. At least it’s worth a try. Let me know what you decide.

Good luck and stay strong! OB Dear Old Bag: I’ve been in a relationship with a guy for about a year.

We met on a dating site and communicated for six months before meeting and dating in-person. We were just ready to meet each other’s family when the pandemic hit. We went back to communicating online, and have really missed each other. He would like to begin dating again, but there is really no place to go in our area that’s open. Then he suggested we should just move in together. I am against that because my family has not met him, although both our families know about us.

What should I do? JJ Dear JJ: It sounds as if you two must know each other very well by now.

While I think moving in together might be a bridge too far right now, I don’t see why you can’t bring him into “your bubble.” These are the people you associate with on a regular basis, such as family members or close friends. If you bring him in, he could meet whoever else is in your bubble and you could be let into his bubble—then you could continue to see each other until you either make the relationship permanent or call it off! I am sure you will make the right decision! Good luck, OB

Hassle-Free Home Ownership Informational Seminar – RSVP Required

DoubleTree Hotel

743 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81506

Wednesday | September 16th | 1pm

WHY THE VILLAGE COOPERATIVE?

Dear Old Bag: I am writing about my mom who lives alone. I get so mad at her because she has fallen several times because she won’t consistently use her walker. I’m afraid she will fall and break a hip, or worse.

She is on blood thinners. When I scold her, she gets mad and accuses me of treating her like a child. Well, she acts like one! Any suggestions?

Signed, Frustrated Dear Frustrated: You might want to read my answer to the first question in this column for a little insight. Also, sometimes we old people just get tired and don’t care as much about preserving our lives. As my grandfather used to tell me, “You have to die of something!” And we don’t like to be “scolded” by our kids. We changed their diapers and stayed up all night with them when they were sick. So it hurts when they “scold” us. This is when we need lots of love and support. When you can’t make us well, just enjoy us the best you can! OB ■

ASK THE OLD BAG

• The best value in the Grand Junction area Homes are selling quickly so don’t wait!

• Home ownership with no maintenance plus an annual appreciation on your investment • Reserve now to lock-in the best price and choose the interior finishes for your home Now you can have more time and freedom to do as you please. That’s because the Village Cooperative of Grand Junction is a community for active adults (62+)—working or retired—who want home ownership and no maintenance all in a convenient location at an excellent value!

To learn more, join us for our upcoming FREE informational seminar.

Note: Due to limited/safe seating, we ask that you RSVP for this event.

Call Lisa at (970) 628-3628 to learn more about your best home ownership option in Grand Junction!

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD

BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

Send your questions to the Old Bag in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at lagmancreswick@gmail.com

SEE WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT Find us on Facebook

VillageCooperative.com

OF GRAND JUNCTION

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | ASK THE OLD BAG |

13

HEALTHY GEEZER

Is thyroid disease treatable?

T

he thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the middle of the lower neck. It produces hormones that control the body’s metabolism—the chemical processes cells perform to keep us alive.

It should come as no surprise that the thyroid gland often peters out as we get older. The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test checks to see if your thyroid is producing the right amount of hormone for your system. If the gland is making too much hormone, you get hyperthyroidism; if it makes too little, you get hypothyroidism.

About 27 million Americans have overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothroidism) thyroid glands, but more than half the conditions are undiagnosed. More than 80 percent of people with thyroid disease are women.

Hypothyroidism is very common

in people over age 60, and the incidence of it steadily increases with age. About 25 percent of people in nursing homes may have undiagnosed hypothyroidism because its symptoms can be misinterpreted as signs of aging.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include: fatigue, intolerance to cold, constipation, forgetfulness, muscle cramps, hair loss, depression, weight gain, dry skin, hoarseness and mood swings.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: weight loss, heat intolerance, hyperactivity, muscle weakness, palpitations, tremors, nervousness, irritability, insomnia, frequent bowel movements, vision problems or eye irritation.

When thyroid disease is caught early, treatment can control the disorder before the onset of symptoms. The American Thyroid

Association (ATA) recommends that all adults begin their screening at age 35 and every 5 years thereafter. Early screening is inexpensive and could prevent the progression to hypothyroidism.

Thyroid diseases are life-long but treatable conditions. However, if left untreated, thyroid disease can cause elevated cholesterol levels and subsequent heart disease, infertility, osteoporosis and, in extreme cases, coma or death.

Treatment is also simple and relatively inexpensive.

Hypothyroidism is treated with a synthetic hormone tablet called

levothyroxine, which replaces missing thyroid hormones in the body.

With careful monitoring, you’ll soon be able to return to your normal lifestyle.

Hyperthyroidism, which is generally more difficult to treat, requires the normalization of thyroid hormone production. Radioactive iodine therapy is the most common treatment. It often causes hypothyroidism, which requires levothyroxine to bring the system back to normal. Other treatments may involve drug therapy to block hormone production, and even surgery. ■

HEALTHY GEEZER

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DEAR PHARMACIST

Snatiation and sneezing in public

W

hen you’re out in public, you’ll probably want to avoid sneezing as much as possible. Last month when I sneezed (into my arm) in a grocery store parking lot, I found myself explaining to the stranger eyeing me like she wanted to strangle me, “Don’t worry, I’m not sick! I have snatiation!”

She rolled her eyes. I realized she had no idea what I was talking about and probably thought I was being sarcastic.

I just learned about snatiation a few years ago, but I’ve experienced it all my life. When my kids were teens, they would tease me by counting out loud how many times I sneezed uncontrollably during a fit.

My record was 22 in a row.

“Ah-choo!” Over and over. When in public, if I feel a sneeze coming on, I’ll race to the bathroom to sneeze in private—into a tissue, of course. For years, I didn’t know what to call this problem. I thought I was allergic to something in my food. Then, one day I read an article about a genetic polymorphism that described a condition called “snatiation.” It’s a play on the words “satiation” and “sneeze.” It described me to a T. Snatiation is totally controllable, at least for me. Sneezing is triggered by many situations such as epileptic disorders, a response to bright lights, spicy foods or dust and pollen. It often goes hand in hand with a runny nose.

Aside from a cough, sneezing is also the most apparent symptom of a cold and flu. In years past, snatiation was just a funny quirk I had to deal with. But today with the pandemic, if that were to happen

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For those of us with snatiation, let’s vow to sneeze politely from now on, especially because of the current circumstances. Sneeze into the crook of your elbow, or down into your scarf, shirt or into a tissue. Wear masks. Don’t blow your germs all over the place—it’s not only dangerous, it’s rude. If infectious (and please be mindful that you might be asymptomatic), your sneeze could be expelling a virus or bacteria up to 25 or 30 feet away from you. These days, the mucus and saliva that you spew could hurt someone in a very serious way.

If you are mindful and polite, you could literally spare someone from catching a life-threatening disease.

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FACTS ABOUT SNEEZING 1. Most people need to close their eyes when sneezing.

2. Sneezes travel up to 30 feet away, around 90 miles per hour.

3. The sound of your sneeze is based upon your anatomy.

4. Once a sneeze starts, it’s impossible to stop.

5. The medical term for sneezing is “sternutation.” ■

DEAR PHARMACIST

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15

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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What What Can Compass Center Spinal Decompression Osteoarthritis Spinal Decompression Neck and Back Pain Neck and Back Pain Sciatica Sciatica Neuropathy Neuropathy Joint Pain/Knee Pain Joint Pain/Knee Weight LossPain

Osteoarthritis Headaches Headaches Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative Disc Disease Automobile Accidents Automobile Accidents

Compass Medical Center variety of services Compass Medical Centeroffers offers aavariety of services to help! to help!

Regenerative Medicine Regenerative Medicine Joint Injections Joint Injections Spinal Decompression Spinal Decompression Weight Loss Weight Loss

Medical Centerisis CompassCompass Medical Center devoted to providing access devoted to providing access to excellent care in the Grand and excellent care to the Valley. We are a Physical and Grand Valley. We are a Regenerative Medicine Clinic, Physicaloffering and Regenerative the most advanced Medicine Clinic, offering the holistic health care. most advanced holistic health care.

In addition to chiropractic, decompression and Regenerative medicine will rehabilitation services, help people suffering from regenerative medicine helps a varietypeople of inflammatory suffering from a and degenerative conditions, variety of inflammatory and n addition to Chiropractic, degenerative conditions.

Decompression and RehabiliALTERNATIVE TO tation services.

JOINT REPLACEMENT Last year inTO the US, there ALTERNATIVE JOINT were 3.5 million total joint REPLACEMENT replacements and many Last year in the US, there millions of other joint surgeries. were 3.5 million total joint In increasing numbers, people replacements and many milare seeking non-surgical ions of other joint surgeries. alternatives to joint surgery.

In increasing numbers, people Regenerative medicine therapy are seeking non-surgical is a great option for people alternatives to joint surgery.

Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Medical Services Medical Services Chiropractic Chiropractic Massage Massage

Where’s all the meat?

By Wendell Fowler

A

who have been toldmedicine they need thera- mericans love meat, and plenty Regenerative joint replacement surgery. py is a great option for people of it! Since prehistoric times, It can potentially regenerate who have been told they need mankind’s relationship with outyour joint and help you avoid joint replacement surgery. running, catching, butchering, fire surgery.

It can potentially regenerateroasting and eating fleshly protein your and help you avoid We usejoint umbilical cord and birth for survival is deeply embedded tissue donated from jointproducts replacement surgery. into mankind’s DNA. Hardcore carefully screened carnivores passionately spar with We use ana umbilical cord mothers from highly tissue /laboratory blood product from plant-eaters: “We’re not made to respected that a highly respected lab that be vegetarian; we need meat to be capture the greatest captures all the greatest regenerative properties that healthy.” would otherwise beproperties discarded. of thisThe TV reality series “Naked regenerative The proprietarydiscarded method of tissue. otherwise and Afraid” graphically illustrates isolating growth factors, cells, Their proprietary method the importance of daily protein extracellular matrix and a of isolating growth factors, to human survival. Protein is the variety of other healing cells and stem cells gives main building block of the body properties, give the patient the thepossible patient the from bestapossible best benefits that forms the foundation of our benefits from a regenerative Regenerative Medicine product. hair, skin, nails, bones, muscles and medicine product. The use of The use of Regenerative cartilage used to make muscles, Medicine has shown this to stem cells and growth factors tendons, organs and skin, as well as be oneshown of the best therapeutic has them to be one of enzymes, hormones, neurotransmethods to help aid in tissue methods the best therapeutic healing and repair. to help aid in tissue healing mitters and various tiny molecules that serve many important funcand repair.

tions.

Protein helps repair and build the body’s tissues, allows metabolic reactions to take place and synchronizes bodily functions. In Let us help you express your full health potential! addition to providing the body with 2478 Patterson Rd Suite 17 Grand Junction, CO 81505 Let us help you express your full health potential! a structural framework, proteins 985-4506 2478www.compassmedicalco.com Patterson Rd Suite 17 Grand Junction also maintain proper pH and fluid balance. Finally, proteins in all forms keep the all-important immune www.compassmedicalco.com system strong, transport and store

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nutrients, and can act as an energy source. Hence, without protein, life as we know wouldn’t be possible.

DISRUPTING THE SUPPLY CHAIN So when there’s meat scarcity, or packaged grocery meat becomes unavailable, where can meat eaters get protein? The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends men over 50 get at least 56 grams of protein daily. For women in this age bracket, 46 grams a day is the minimum, depending on weight and health status.

Time magazine reports: “By the end of April (2020), the pandemic changed the economic and agricultural landscape so drastically that Tyson Foods, one of America’s biggest meat producers, warned in a full-page New York Times ad that the ‘food supply chain is breaking.’

Experts warned that shoppers should prepare for meat to be more expensive, less varied and harder to find.”

In April, ABC News reported, “Some massive meat processing plants have closed at least temporarily because their workers were sickened by the new coronavirus, raising concerns there could soon

HEALTH & WELLNESS

INCORPORATING VARIED PROTEINS INTO OUR MEAT-CENTRIC DIET IS A MARATHON, NOT A SPRINT. be shortages of beef, pork and poultry in supermarkets.”

Forbes added, “Grocery store popularity of alternative meat has skyrocketed amid the pandemic in the U.S., with sales about doubling for top brands; experts attribute this to consumers’ desire for sustainable and healthy food—compounded by meat facility closures and supply chain disruption.”

If scarcity or rising prices are affecting you, what else can fill the empty spot on the dinner plate?

SEEKING ALTERNATIVE SOURCES Ask any plant-crunching vegan or vegetarian and they’ll pontificate how easy it is to get protein into their daily diet. They’ll suggest trying more recipes with a variety of beans, lentils, soy-based tempeh cakes, tofu, seitan (wheat meat), TVP (textured vegetable protein), nuts and flax, chia or hemp seeds, jackfruit, Greek yogurt, and the constellation of meat substitutes lining grocers’ shelves. Biscuits and gravy with fake sausage has fooled many a carnivore.

Use tempeh and TVP in sloppy joes, burrito and taco filling, chili, or fake hamburger in spaghetti and lasagna sauce. Consider

home-cooked oats for breakfast that provide about four grams of protein per cup. One ounce—about a standard handful—of almonds contains about six grams of protein.

One cup of pumpkin seed contains about 12 grams. And, one cup of cooked quinoa contains about eight grams of protein.

Don’t forget canned tuna, salmon and sardines in water, and low-fat dairy products like Greek yogurt, hard cheeses and cottage cheese. A single avocado contains about four grams of protein and one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids—the good fat. Spinach, asparagus, broccoli, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, mustard and collard greens, and alfalfa sprouts are protein sources as well.

Incorporating varied proteins into our meat-centric diet is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s difficult changing lifelong eating behaviors.

Americans might take this opportunity to circle back to hunting and gathering like our grandparents, sourcing meats, cheese, and other wide-ranging products from hardworking, local, family farming communities. As a result, you’re supporting the local economy and bravely exploring alternative sources of protein that nature offers. ■

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17

LAUGHING MATTERS

LAUGHING MATTERS MERIT

COVID ONE-LINERS

Submitted by Ron Carlson

Submitted by Jan Weeks

A cowboy appeared before St. Peter at the pearly gates. St. Peter asked the cowboy, “Have you ever done anything of particular merit?”

“I can think of one thing,” said the cowboy. “On a trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota I came upon a gang of bikers who were harassing a young woman. I told them to leave her alone, but they wouldn’t listen. So I walked up to the biggest, baddest, most tattooed biker and punched him in the face, ripped out his earring and tossed it to the ground, then kicked his bike over.

I then yelled, ‘Now back off or I’ll kick the snot out of every last one of you!’”

Impressed, St. Peter asked, “When did this happen?”

The cowboy replied, “A couple of minutes ago.”

How long is this social distancing thing supposed to last? My husband keeps trying to come into the house.

Is it too early to put up the Christmas tree yet? I have run out of things to do.

People start coughing and worry they have the coronavirus. I cough and just pray I don’t pee myself.

When does Season 2 of 2020 start?

I do NOT like Season 1.

Having some states lockdown and some states not lockdown is like have a peeing section of a swimming pool.

It may take a village to raise a child, but I swear it’s going to take a whole vineyard to homeschool one.

Remember all those times when

you wished the weekend would last forever? Well, wish granted. Happy now?

Whoever decided a liquor store is more essential than a hair salon is obviously a bald-headed alcoholic.

If these last few weeks have taught us anything, it’s that stupidity travels faster than any virus on the planet.

THE BATHTUB TEST Submitted by Will Dickerson During a visit to the mental asylum, I asked the director, “How do you determine whether or not a patient should be institutionalized?”

“Well,” the director said, “First we fill up a bathtub. Then we offer the patient a teaspoon, a teacup and a bucket, and ask him or her to empty the bathtub.”

“Oh, I understand,” I said. “A normal person would use the bucket because it’s bigger than the spoon or the teacup.”

“No,” he said, “A normal person

would pull the plug. Do you want a bed near the window?”

LEARNING TO DRINK Submitted by Kyle Booker While reading an article last night about fathers and sons, memories came flooding back from the time I took my son out for his first pint.

Off we went to our local pub only two blocks from our house. I got him a Guinness. He didn’t like it, so I drank it.

Then I got him a Kilkenny’s. He didn’t like that either, so I drank it.

Finally, I thought he might like some Harp Lager. He didn’t. So I drank it.

I thought maybe he’d like whiskey better than beer, so we tried a Jameson’s. Nope!

In desperation, I had him try that rare Redbreast—Ireland’s finest. He wouldn’t even smell it.

By the time I realized he just didn’t like to drink, I was so darn drunk I could hardly push his stroller home.

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Beautiful mountain views

LAUGHING MATTERS

VERY PUNNY

tremor in his voice, “Grandma, will you sleep with me tonight?”

She smiled and gave him a reassuring hug.

“I can’t dear,” she said. “I have to sleep in your granddaddy’s room.”

A long silence was broken by his shaky little voice: “That big sissy.”

Submitted by Jan Weeks If you boil a funny bone, it becomes a laughing stock. That’s humerus.

I told my suitcases that there will be no vacation this year. Now I’m dealing with emotional baggage.

Today I saw a dwarf climbing down a prison wall. I thought to myself, “That’s a little condescending.”

HELPFUL SON Submitted by Karen Smith

Not to get technical…but according to chemistry, alcohol IS a solution.

CHURCH HOPPING Submitted by Josh White A guy had been isolated on an island in the South Pacific for 10 years. He lit a signal fire every night, but no one came to rescue him.

Finally, a passing boat noticed the signal and sent men in a small boat to investigate.

The castaway explained that he had been on this island for 10 years waiting to be rescued. The boat captain asked him, “If you are all alone, what are those three huts I see built in the lagoon?”

He answered, “The first hut is my home, the second hut is where I go to church and the third hut is where I went to church before I got mad and changed churches.”

GRANDMA’S LITTLE BOY Submitted by Linda Grant During a thunderstorm one evening, a woman tucked her grandson into bed. She was about to turn off the light when he asked, with a

An elderly woman lived alone. She wanted to spade her potato garden, but it was very hard work. Her only son, Joe, who used to help her, was in prison. The woman wrote a letter to her son describing her predicament.

“Dear Joe, I am feeling pretty bad because it looks like I won’t be able to plant my garden this year. I’m just getting too old to be digging up a garden plot. If you were here, all my troubles would be over. I know you would dig the plot for me.

Love, Mom.”

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A few days later she received a letter from her son.

“Dear Mom: For heaven’s sake, don’t dig up that garden, that’s where I buried the BODIES. Love, Joe.” At 4 a.m. the next day, the police showed up and dug up the entire area but no bodies were found.

They apologized to the woman and left. That same day she received another letter from her son.

“Dear Mom, go ahead and plant the garden now. That’s the best I could do under the circumstances. Love, Joe.” ■

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19

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Afternoon delight on American Bandstand

By Randal C. Hill

SEPTEMBER 12 9AM-3PM

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O

n Monday, August 5, 1957, a red camera light winked on in Philadelphia’s WFIL-TV studio.

Amid the background strains of a hopelessly square instrumental theme came the introduction: “Hi, I’m Dick Clark. Welcome to American Bandstand.” Those eight words spoken by the 26-year-old host launched history’s most successful national daytime show.

In 1952, Philadelphia radio DJ Bob Horn started a popular local afternoon dance show called “Bandstand.” Following some DUIs and a charge involving an underage girl, Horn was sacked in 1956. Clark took over, making “Bandstand” an even bigger show. It went nationwide one year later.

GQ-perfect in appearance, Clark proved at ease with the TV camera and presided over his show like a principal overseeing a school dance.

His 90-minute daily “American Bandstand” featured clean-cut teenagers dancing to records and Clark schmoozing with the audience. A strict dress code dictated that the boys wore jackets and ties, and the girls wore skirts and blouses, or dresses. Onscreen hormones abounded in a G-rated sense; kids often flirted, hooked up, broke up and got back together—all before a national audience.

On the Rate-A-Record segment, audience members evaluated the latest singles. A Top 10 Countdown listed the best-selling 45s of the day. Most major rockers of the

1950s longed for a coveted spot on “Bandstand” with two exceptions: Elvis Presley and Ricky Nelson, who didn’t need the TV exposure.

“American Bandstand” featured a soundtrack of mainstream pop and rock songs. No “raunch ’n’ roll” was allowed, which helped soften parents’ objections to the “wild” music their offspring embraced.

With his clout, Clark launched the careers of numerous teen idols, who were given new stage names.

Francis Avallone emerged as Frankie Avalon. Fabiano Anthony Forte began life anew as Fabian. Robert Ridarelli won fame as Bobby Rydell.

Ernie Evans became “American Bandstand’s” first black teen idol as Twist sensation Chubby Checker.

Watched by 20 million teenagers and adults, the show emerged at a time of monumental change in culture and musical tastes, with Clark being a major part of that shift. As one of the most significant forces in early rock ‘n’ roll, “American Bandstand” caught on with warp speed. ■

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Female problems!

By Dick Wolfsie

W

hile most stories I write are exaggerations of the truth, this story really happened, word for word. It began eight years ago when I got this letter in the mail:

Dear Richard Wolfsie: Our records show that the gender we have for you doesn’t match the information received from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.

To have your gender corrected, please contact your local Social Security office.

I dialed immediately, hoping to reach a real person who could look into everything without having to actually look at anything—if you know what I mean. After I answered a few automated questions, a man who identified himself as Art came on the phone and offered to assist me. I told him my last name and Social Security number.

“Yes, we have you on file. What can I do for you, Ma’am?”

That didn’t start out very well.

I explained to Art the mistake they had made, but I was using a deeper voice, hoping that might move the conversation along in the right direction.

“We may have a software problem,” he said.

“Well, from my point of view, it’s more of a hardware problem,” I muttered.

“This is a new one for me, Wolfsie. Mind if I just call you Wolfsie—at least until we satisfactorily address this problem? Not sure I can fix this with a simple keystroke.

This may require a face-to-face meeting.”

I was uncomfortable with that possibility. I’m not a rugged looking guy. I tried to talk him out of it.

“Look, how about an eyewitness report? Can you take my wife’s word for it? Or I can have the guys from the gym sign an affidavit?

Or maybe the security agents at the airport could give you a buzz?

“IT LOOKS TO ME, WOLFSIE, THAT WE HAD YOU OFFICIALLY LISTED AS A MAN, BUT FOR SOME REASON YOU BECAME A WOMAN IN OUR SYSTEM WHEN YOU SIGNED UP FOR MEDICARE.” Those guys have seen it all.”

“I’m very sorry, but we do have our standard operating procedures,” Art replied.

“No, an operation is out of the question,” I said. “There must be a simpler way.”

“Are you on Medicare?” he asked.

“Yes, for the past several months.”

“Which parts?”

“Apparently, not all of the parts I want covered.”

“Wolfsie, maybe the computer read your first name as being either a man’s or a woman’s, thus the confusion.”

“You must be right, Art. Who doesn’t have a sister or grandmother named Richard?”

“I need to put you on hold, Wolfsie. Sorry to make you wait.”

“No problem. I’ll pass the time flipping through Brides magazine.”

Moments later: “It looks to me, Wolfsie, that we had you officially listed as a man, but for some reason you became a woman in our system when you signed up for Medicare. That was effective March 2, 2012.”

“Well, if it’s so effective, why don’t they let me drive from the ladies’ tees at my golf club?”

We had been on the phone almost an hour when Art said he needed to check one more thing. He promised he’d return in a few seconds. I held for another five minutes but he never came back on the line.

Isn’t that just like a man? ■

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21

ALIVE & DIGGING

Prep your garden for changing seasons S

eptember is harvest time! And, it marks the beginning of slowly putting the garden to bed.

GARDEN CHECKLIST

THE PERFECT TIME FOR BULBS Do you love colorful flower varieties like tulips and daffodils?

These bulbs need to be planted in the fall and require a wintering-over time to provide gorgeous spring blooms. Fall’s colder weather causes less stress on your new plants, allowing them to establish root systems in a comfortable environment before winter. Savvy gardeners know that planting in fall is a great way to get a stress-free jump on the following season!

Best varieties for our area (Zone 6-7): • Tulips - This three-petal, threesepal, cup-shaped or star-shaped flower is associated with perfect love.

• Narcissus - Similar to a daffodil, this flower has a

six petal-like sepal surrounded by a trumpet-shaped corona. This flower is associated with rebirth and new beginnings.

• Crocus - Light bulb shaped, early blooming flower. The spice, Saffron, is derived from the Saffron Crocus.

Tidy up flower beds by cutting back perennials that are done blooming, and divide perennials as needed.

Replace perennial plants, like lavender, as desired to give them time to establish before winter. Now’s also a good time to plant cacti.

Take cuttings from the plants you want more of, so you can establish them indoors in pots through fall and winter.

Leave winter squash on the vine as long as possible, harvesting just before the first frost. This will allow them to sweeten! Cut squash from the vine carefully, leaving two inches of stem attached if possible.

All life in the garden begins below the surface. Even after seeds have sprouted, crops have grown and bounties have been harvested.

As we begin to pull plants out of the garden this month, we’ll likely leave behind areas of bare soil.

Rather than leaving soils exposed and vulnerable to sun, wind and winter cold, we can use cover crops and mulch to protect and nourish

garden beds.

COVER CROPS Cover crops protect the soil from the elements through winter. They also add crucial organic matter to the soil, increase fertility, improve structure to prevent soil erosion and compaction, and help suppress weeds in the spring—depending on what kinds of cover crops you plant and where you live.

Winter-killed cover crops die from frosts during the winter. Sown in summer, winter-killed cover crops will grow rapidly, then die back after a few hard frosts. The plant and root mass will add organic matter to the soil and hold it in place until spring.

Winter-hardy cover crops stay alive through winter and thrive again in the spring. These can be annual or perennial plants that add fertility to the soil and provide a living mulch for your garden beds.

Using cover crops in your garden will do wonders for the health of your soil. I love the way this practice mimics Nature, creating a bridge between fall and spring and transforming our gardens into full-circle garden ecosystems.

• Daffodils - Related to the Narcissus, this flower has a six-petal trumpet-shaped corona. It is also associated with rebirth and new beginnings.

• Hyacinthus - This flower blooms in dense clusters and has a sixpetal bloom. The flower signifies constancy and sincerity.

All these varieties will be available

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Leave winter squash on the vine as long as possible, harvesting just before the first frost. This will allow them to sweeten!

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ALIVE & DIGGING

Arugula won’t mind being under a blanket of snow, and you can even harvest some arugula greens through winter, incorporating frost blankets if needed.

Our Western Slope climate offers us the opportunity to explore both winter-killed and winter-hardy cover crops. Hairy vetch and clover are two commonly used perennial cover crops. With vigorous growth, they outcompete weeds. Their deep roots loosen compacted soils and fix nitrogen along the way.

Oats, peas, buckwheat, ryegrass and daikon radish are some of the many options available for

winter-killed cover crops. These fast-growing annual plants each benefit soils in different ways through nitrogen-fixing, “tillage” and winter protection.

Use multiple winter-killed cover crops and evenly mix them with some winter-hardy cover crops for a range of effects. By sowing a mixture of seeds, you’ll learn directly from your soil what it needs by observing the crops that flourish.

You can even mix in an edible crop like arugula or kale that will survive winter and provide you with delicious greens during winter and in early spring. Sow arugula this month alongside other cover crops or by itself in a patch of soil, and leave the roots in as you harvest.

Young greens will pop up in the cool of fall, and growth will slow as winter begins. Arugula won’t mind being under a blanket of snow, and you can even harvest some arugula greens through winter, incorporating frost blankets if needed.

MULCH We can encourage decomposition by covering bare soils with mulch.

Mulch can be any type of organic matter such as leaves and grass

clippings. Opt for plant material that hasn’t been sprayed with herbicide so that you’re feeding your soils nutrient-rich material instead of harmful chemicals. Even better, preface your layer of mulch with a juicy layer of compost or alpaca manure.

At the end of the day, nearly any mulch is better than no mulch, so play around with what works best for you. Your garden will likely be happier for it.

Let Nature’s continuous cycle influence your garden, and you just might find yourself more deeply engaged with fall and every other season. ■

ALIVE & DIGGING

BY PAIGE SLAUGHTER Send your questions to Paige in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at paige@fruitionstudio.com

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | HOME & GARDEN |

23

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Grandparents Day is September 13

Grandparents raising grandchildren Local seniors face challenges parenting grandkids

By Carole Ann McKelvey

I

f you’re a grandparent raising grandchildren, you’re not alone. According to AARP, more than 5.8 million children in the U.S. live with grandparents. On the Western Slope, many grandparents are taking on the job of parenting once again despite their own physical, economic and emotional challenges.

Grandparents often find themselves in this position because their sons or daughters can’t handle the duties of child-rearing due to mental or physical health issues, addiction challenges or other hurdles.

Mariah Emond, chief operating officer of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Montrose, said that about 10 percent of children removed from their homes locally are placed in kinship care, with grandparents being the primary relatives willing to care for them.

“Occasionally, a child will end up with another extended relative, like an aunt or uncle,” said Emond, “but they often end up permanently with grandparents who love their grandchildren and want to do the best for them.”

Regardless of how they come together, many kinship families face similar difficulties, such as navigating the welfare system, establishing legal guardianship and moving past trauma.

Virginia Knob

24 | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

MOST RETIREMENT INCOMES ARE NOT DESIGNED TO COVER THE NEEDS OF GROWING CHILDREN.

While some studies report that grandchildren do well or are unaffected by the unconventional parenting situation, data from the 2016 National Survey of Children’s Health found they were more apt to behavioral issues, including anger and anxiety. The study also found that those raising grandchildren were more likely to have their own physical and mental health problems, to be poorer than average, and have less education.

A LOCAL ISSUE Delta resident Virginia Knob has cared for her 13-year-old grandson and 16-year-old granddaughter for the majority of their lives.

“The first two years of their life they spent pretty much with their mom and dad,” Knob said.

Then their parents split up, and the children bounced back and forth between Knob’s daughter, who has her own mental health challenges, and their father. When her granddaughter called her in tears saying, “I have no place to go. Can I come to your house?” Knob sought custody to become their permanent caregiver.

“The hardest part is not having any financial support,” said Knob, who shares their mobile home in Delta with her adult son and disabled husband.

Grandparents can go to court and be awarded or promised child support, which may or may noy materialize. Some find themselves having to seek outside support through government programs, but there’s often no subsidy funding for grandparents raising grandchildren. This is where

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

nonprofits such as Families Plus have stepped in to help.

Families Plus is a Delta-based nonprofit, which was founded to help parents and grandparents raise healthy children during economically difficult situations. The organization reports that 15 percent of those served are raising grandchildren.

WORTH THE HARDSHIPS Most retirement incomes aren’t meant to accommodate the needs of growing children. As a result, many seniors who find themselves caring for their grandchildren full-time may fall into poverty.

Jackie Ballard, a retired special education teacher living in Hotchkiss, stays busy raising her grandchildren, ages 4 and 6. Although she has full custody, she receives no child support; instead, she depends on Temporary Assistance for Needed Families (TANF) and whatever funds she comes across.

Ballard, 64, sought custody of her grandchildren when she found herself at her daughter’s house on a near daily basis to get her grandchildren up and ready for school.

“They were dirty and hungry,” said Ballard.

“The kids were being moved all over the place and were traumatized.”

At one point, they were camping out with

Jackie Ballard

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

RESOURCES FOR GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN • CASA for Mesa County (Grand Junction) 242-4191 www.casamc.org Jackie Ballard’s grandchildren play in the sandbox in the backyard.

THE UPSIDE OF HER SITUATION? WATCHING HER GRANDCHILDREN THRIVE AND BE HAPPY. their parents. Eventually, Ballard was faced with a choice: Either the kids would be split up into foster homes, or she’d have to get permanent custody.

Caring for grandkids when you’re supposed to be enjoying your retirement years is hard. For Ballard, the upside is seeing them thrive and be happy.

“My grandson told me, ‘I’m going to grow up and be a country singer, Grandma, and buy you a new house!’” she said. ■

• CASA of the 7th Judicial District (Montrose) 249-0337 | www.casa7jd.org • Mesa County Human Services | 241-848, www.humanservices.mesa county.us • Montrose County Human Services | 252-5000 www.montrosecounty.net • Delta County Human Services | 874-2030 www.deltacounty.com/7/ human-services • Families Plus | 874-0464, www.familiesplus.net • AARP Guide for Grandfamilies www.aarp.org/relationships/ friends-family/info-08-2011/ grandfamilies-guide-getting started.html)

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25

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Caring for your pets during COVID-19 Roice-Hurst programs help keep you and your pets together

By Joyce Alexander

W

hen times are hard, we can always turn to our pets for comfort and emotional support.

But what happens when job loss, vulnerability and fear due to the pandemic impair our ability to care for them?

Since 1963, Roice-Hurst Humane Society (RHHS) in Grand Junction has helped place thousands of displaced pets with loving human companions. In recent years, the nonprofit expanded its focus on reducing the number of pets being surrendered to the shelter by providing pet owners with resources and support services.

“We expect the animal sheltering model nationwide to change in ways that focus on the people aspect of how animals end up in shelters and on keeping pets with

loving families,” said Executive Director Anna Stout.

Just as COVID-19 has impacted millions of pet owners and animal welfare agencies nationwide, RHHS is also facing its share of unprecedented challenges.

“Our biggest needs right now are monetary support and fostering or adopting a pet,” said Community Health Liaison Ashley DiGrado.

When the pandemic began, RHHS received more than 100 applications from interested foster homes willing to temporarily house pets in case the shelter received an influx of animal surrenders.

Fortunately, that hasn’t happened, but RHHS stands prepared as government pandemic assistance programs come to an end and pet owners find themselves in difficult financial situations.

Trick for a treat: Dog Behavior Counselor Laura Taylor prepares to reward a shelter dog while her office mate, Community Health Liaison Ashley DiGrado, observes.

When it’s important, we plan for it ahead of time.

Planning and paying for your life celebration in advance will give you and your family valuable peace of mind.

We remain deeply committed to the health and well-being of our community and are observing the highest level of cleanliness at our facilities.

FREE planning guide:

26 | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS “We know how important the human/animal bond is,” said DiGrado. “We’re trying to keep animals at home with their people by providing resources. Especially for seniors, animals offer a lot of unconditional love and support.”

HELP IS AVAILABLE RHHS’ Animal Resource Center (ARC) emphasizes the organization’s mission of promoting bonds between pets and their people by offering low-cost behavior counseling, training classes and crisis services to the public. Below is a list of resources designed to help keep pets and their people together during the pandemic: • Pet Pantry - The pet pantry provides dog and cat food along with other pet-related items for pet parents who’ve fallen on hard times. Supplies vary and quantities are limited. Delivery is available upon request for high-risk or homebound individuals. You can apply online at www.rhhumanesociety.org/pet-pantry-application.

RHHS also distributes pet food and other items through programs such as Meals on Wheels and Catholic Outreach.

• Crisis boarding program - RHHS offers short-term pet boarding for qualifying individuals who are facing crisis and are at risk of being separated from their pet. Acceptance into the program is based on income and a long-term commitment to care for the pet.

• Low-cost vaccination clinics- Make sure your dogs’ and cats’ vaccinations are up to date at these low-cost vaccination clinics available by appointment only. Paying the $16 exam fee in advance reserves your spot. Dogs can receive vaccines for distemper, rabies, Bordetella and leptospirosis, and can be tested for heartworm.

(Heartworm preventive is also available). Cats can be vaccinated for parvo and rabies and tested for FELV/FIV. • Corona Care Packs - Corona Care Packs contain items tailored to your pet’s gender, age and size, and include toys, treats and a list of fun activities. Delivery is available in the greater Grand Junction area.

Suggested donations vary by the size of packs.

• Planning for your pets - People often consider family and friends in their wills, but what about pets?

Now is the time to write directives to ensure future caregivers have all the information and tools necessary for an animal’s care in case you are hospitalized or are otherwise unable to care for them. RHHS makes it easy with sample directives and forms available on their website.

Out of concern for the health and safety of visitors, volunteers, staff and animals, the shelter amended its hours and adoptions are by appointment only. For more information about programs and to schedule services, call 434-7337 or visit www.rhhumanesociety.org. ■

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR SHELTER PETS Roice-Hurst Humane Society is committed to Western Slope pet owners and their pets. To continue their life-saving work, the 501(c)3 nonprofit largely relies on support from volunteers and monetary gifts. To donate or volunteer, call 434-7337. Donations are tax deductible. The shelter recently reopened to volunteers on a limited basis with new systems to promote social distancing.

Items like pet food (wet and dry), treats, toys, cat litter, nursing bottles, cat carriers, blankets and cleaning supplies are also in high demand. Visit www.rhhumanesociety.org/wish-list to learn more.

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We’re here for you and your pets.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s

Animal Resource Center

is here to help keep pets in loving homes, especially during these trying times.

Pet Training & Behavior Counseling For cats and dogs!

Group classes and virtual or in-person individual sessions.

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Low-Cost Vaccine and Microchip Clinics Vaccine clinics every other Sunday, microchip clinics quarterly.

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Check website for dates and pricing.

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Dog and cat food and other pet-related items.

Delivery available within the valley.

Subsidized pet boarding for people experiencing short-term crises.

Supplies vary and are limited.

Application required.

Call extension 103 for more information.

Promoting bonds between pets and their people since 1963.

362 28 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-434-7337 ~ rhhumanesociety.org

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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28 | TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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Insuring your travel in pandemic times

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

CANCEL-LITE

hat are your thoughts about traveling in the time of COVID-19? If you or a loved one has contracted the dreaded disease, this question is likely far from your mind, and in that case, I am truly sorry for your ordeal and hope that health has returned to your family.

The rest of us bystanders have so far faced only collateral damage in the pandemic. Some are grateful they had no upcoming trips planned: nothing to cancel and no money to be lost. Others had trips planned and spent the first few months of quarantine navigating the quagmire of reimbursement or rescheduling. Many can’t imagine ever going through that again and have decided during the pandemic to stick closer to home.

Then there are those, like my husband and myself, who—despite enduring canceled vacations—want to get on the road before long. We wonder, what about travel insurance in the time of COVID?

The most important change instituted by most, if not all, insurance companies is that they are no longer offering “cancel for any reason” insurance. If you have such a policy, call the insurance company to make sure you understand the terms before you depart on an excursion.

Some policies have a “cancel-lite” option with a name like “anytime coverage,” but it will almost certainly exclude pandemics. To be clear, most policies have always excluded pandemics from their covered reasons. We just never thought it would happen!

Currently, plans typically offer some type of coverage in the event that the insured or a traveling companion contracts the coronavirus or must quarantine while the coverage is in effect. There may even be trip cancellation or trip interruption coverage if a non-traveling family member is diagnosed with a COVID case that is considered life-threatening.

W

TRAVEL Likewise, if you purchased Emergency Medical and Evacuation coverage, this could be applied. Under these circumstances, reimbursement typically requires a physician’s certification.

Truthfully, if you’re willing to make plans now—even for a date far in the future—you may be able to snag a good deal. For instance, in June, my husband and I paid a deposit for an Antarctic voyage departing late in December 2021. If we cancel anytime up to two weeks before the trip, the travel company will refund all our money.

How can they afford those terms? Both travel companies and travel insurance companies need bookings to remain viable. They are eager to make it worth your while.

Be sure you understand the cancellation policies for various scenarios. Fear of travel, travel advisories or being unable to reach a destination (for whatever reason) are often not covered under general insurance policies. Check “trip cancellation” or “interruption coverage” for the listed events they include. If you’re unsure of the terms, call and ask.

UNDERSTAND TRADEOFFS How do you determine what coverage you need? List the reasons you’re considering travel insurance and determine whether the policy includes those specific concerns.

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INSURANCE COMPANIES (rated by “Travel” magazine) • Allianz Global Assistance • Amex Assurance • Generali Global Assistance • Seven Corners • Travelex • Travel Guard For example, if you book far ahead to get good terms, there’s a risk that the travel company may go bankrupt before your trip. Will your insurance carrier pay off in the case that the travel company is no longer viable?

You may decide not to insure the trip costs of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, understanding that if you miss it for whatever reason, you won’t reschedule. That’s a legitimate gamble.

What is essential for any insurance policy—travel or other—is to insure against catastrophic costs.

These are costs that would not just ruin your trip but set your finances back years or bankrupt you in expenses. If you board a boat to Antarctica without medical evacuation coverage, for instance, you may never recover from the medical costs even if you recover from an emergency.

Understand the tradeoffs and choose what’s right for you. ■

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SOME PLANS ARE NOT WHAT THEY SEEM. Do you know the answers to these questions?

1. Do all your physicians accept the plan you are considering?

2. Does the plan you are considering allow you to see any physician or go to any hospital in the country?

3. Do all supplement plans offer an annual open enrollment?

Medicare Open Enrollment for 2021 is Right Around the Good News For Those Facing High Costs of F Plans!

• If you currently have a Plan F Supplement you can move to a Plan G Supplement between January 1, 2021- June 30, 2021, without having to answer medical questions.

• Why would you want to move from a Plan F to a Plan G? The premiums for a Plan G can be significantly less money!

• Will your coverage be the same under a Plan G Supplement?

The ONLY difference between a Plan F and a Plan G is that you pay the annual Medicare Part B deductible (which in 2020 was $198). We have seen that Plan G savings are more than enough money to pay the Part B deductible and have money left over!

• Can you move to a Plan G now and not wait until January 1, 2021? Yes! You will need to answer medical questions if you apply now, but if you are in relatively good health, you can apply and if accepted, start saving money now!

DON’T LIMIT YOURSELF TO ONE MEDICARE

DON’T GET TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF!@@@@ 4. Do you need to review your drug coverage every year?

5. If a physician charges above Medicare’s approved amounts does the plan you are considering pick up the additional Part B charges?

6. How do I choose the right plan for me not only for today but also in the future when my healthcare needs change as I age?

Corner! Here are some Important things to be aware of: Some companies will be dropping their Medicare Supplement and/or Medicare Cost plans in 2020, forcing you to choose new coverage for 2021. Here are a few things to keep in mind: • If an insurance carrier “drops” your plan, you can switch to any carrier or to any plan without being turned down for coverage due to pre-existing medical conditions. But you have only a limited time to enroll in a new plan so be careful!

• Can’t I switch to a new supplement every year during open enrollment? No! Not all Supplements have annual open enrollment which comes as a shock to many people on Medicare. You must have a qualifying event to make this change – otherwise

you will have to answer medical questions and you can be turned down for coverage based on medical conditions.

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n July, we talked about pioneers.

Pioneers are courageous visionaries. They are aware of the risks, but they go forth anyway. They scout out the land, blaze the trails and build maps for those who will follow. They are the Lewises and Clarks of the world. th & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org First First United United Methodist MethodistChurch, Church,5 5St. St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org Pioneers pass their vision on to First United Methodist Church, 5th St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org settlers.

Settlers receive the vision from the pioneers and make it their own.

They also go forth, but unlike the S Townsend Ave pioneers, their mission is to possess BAPTIST CHURCH E Niagara Rd the land. They work the land and plant crops. They reap the harTurning Montrose Around vest. Settlers are hardworking and RosemontBaptist.org dedicated. They build cities, schools FAMILY FELLOWSHIP COMMUNITY and ministries. They influence the government.

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When Jesus said he would build his Church, the word he used was Ekklesia. Ekklesia was a secular Joyfully, to Love all, word in Jewish society denoting a societal impact group with implito Serve all, and to share cations of influencing government, Jesus Christ with the world and even law. That’s what the ••• Church is to be.

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who were sent to scout out the land were overcome with fear and convinced the Israelites that they could not take the land.

As a result, God had caused Israel to wander in the desert for four decades until that generation was gone.

The only two remaining spies from that first scouting mission were Joshua and Caleb, with Joshua now in command. This time, two spies were sent across the Jordan to check out the land of their inheritance. When they returned, they reported, “The Lord has given us the whole land. All the people are terrified of us!” What a contrast!

The people of Israel crossed the Jordan and conquered the land.

They settled their land of promise.

The Lord is still looking for courageous men and women who will be pioneers and settlers—men and women He can give His vision to who are brave and will go forth.

He wants pioneers who will receive His vision, and settlers who will make that vision theirs. Men and women who will build according to His will and will build His Kingdom.

Will you be one of God’s pioneers or settlers? It really doesn’t matter what your age is. God still has a plan for you—a good plan. A plan of purpose. A grand plan. An exciting plan. He will reveal it if you just ask Him. ■

TALKING DIGITAL

Bonding with grandkids over technology R ecently, I saw a Facebook meme featuring a close-up picture of a scared chihuahua. The dog had an overlay of a chaotic war scene—as if having a traumatic flashback— with the caption, “When you’re the tech guy in the family and you overhear someone say Grandma got a new phone.”

At first, I laughed. But it was the kind of laugh that comes from empathy and, possibly, when you mean to cry but a laugh comes out instead.

While I’m grateful for how often I get to help my friends and family, I regret that I allowed my resentment of my skills to miss out on getting closer to my grandpa before he died.

Grandpa Charles was fascinated by gadgets and had an engineer’s mindset for solving problems. Before WiFi, he had every room of his house—including the bathroom— wired with a TV and a phone. Because of his inherent need to tinker and his love for experimenting with tools and materials, I was terrified of the day he’d buy a computer.

My fear was both arrogant and completely unfounded. When he wanted to get a computer to start cataloging his 80,000 or so photos since he served in World War II, I agreed to help set him up on one condition: I didn’t want to be his 24/7 IT guy.

Today, the dreadful scenario I had of him calling me to come over and walk him through a problem is something I fantasize about.

What would Grandpa Charles have thought of smartphones? I’d give almost anything to spend a day explaining how to post old videos on

YouTube or connect with extended generations of his eight sisters via Facebook.

Grandpa left us with boxes of pictures and hours of videos in which he narrated a slideshow (literally a video recording of his slide projector screen) of his entire life.

He could’ve done a lot more with my help. But I’m so grateful that he taught himself how to do so much on his own.

This reflection triggered by a silly meme prompts me to offer advice for both grandparents who struggle with technology and family members who grow weary from offering help.

Grandparents: Don’t stop asking for help with your technology. Don’t worry that you are being a bother and don’t stop trying to learn more because your family computer guy has a bad attitude.

Family computer guy/gal: Don’t feel obligated to drop everything to help, but keep in mind that your help won’t always be needed. We all wish we could have one more moment with a loved one who’s passed.

It’s strange how the moments you wish you could spend together aren’t necessarily road trips or sporting events. If I had a day with my grandpa, I’d show him how to use his computer to track airplanes flying into the airport, how to use an iPhone to measure a shelf, or text his daughter and grandkids who live out of state.

I’d probably be doing it via Zoom due to COVID-19. But I’d gladly accept that limitation. ■

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33

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Post-COVID jobs for seniors

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

A

frequent television ad features a handsome older couple who thought they had planned well for retirement but realized they needed another income source. They quickly discover (it’s a 30-second ad) that there’s value in their whole life insurance policy. Presto! Problem solved. Nice for them, but what about the real world?

Even before COVID-19, working beyond the Social Security retirement age was a rapidly growing trend. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that seniors are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. workforce. The proportion of those over 65 working part- or full-time is projected to grow in the next decade to one-third from about 20 percent.

The effects of coronavirus shutdowns likely will accelerate this trend.

COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on late-stage careers, portfolios and

retirement plans. It affects our age group because we are physically, and oftentimes financially, more at risk. If you’ve lost your job due to the pandemic, or have determined your shrunken portfolio needs a paycheck boost, what are promising areas for work?

AVENUES OF WORK Despite the dire unemployment figures, there are areas of hope for seniors seeking employment.

FlexJobs (www.flexjobs.com) is one online job market whose focus is flexible and remote work. According to AARP, FlexJobs reported a 4 percent increase in remote job listings in the first month of pandemic restrictions. Many other online platforms cater specifically to the experience and assets of old workers.

Work at Home Vintage Experts (www.WAHVE.com) matches

BASED ON STATE POPULATIONS AND PROJECTED COVID-19 INFECTION RATES, EXPERTS ESTIMATE THAT BETWEEN 100,000 AND 300,000 CONTACT TRACERS WILL BE NEEDED NATIONWIDE.

Contact-tracer hiring initiatives have been underway for months in some states. Check with your local and state health departments.

34 | FINANCE | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

FINANCE younger seniors seeking flexible and part-time work with insurance, human resources and accounting jobs.

Silvernest operates a site (www. silvernest.com) enabling homeowning seniors with empty bedrooms to find reliable renters.

My favorite in pre-coronavirus times was CoolWorks, (www. coolworks.com) catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Their focus is on mostly seasonal, hands-on work in resorts, national parks, farms and ranches. Their home page announces, “Cool Works also encourages athletic retirees with a yen for adventure to think about these positions.”

AARP suggests a host of career opportunities that can be good matches for seniors. These include teachers, telehealth nurses, consultants, bookkeepers, virtual assistants, translators, writers, customer service reps, negotiators, claims investigators, speech pathologists, fundraising coordinators, school psychologists, sales reps and software engineers. A recent study by payroll experts at ADP found that roughly one-third of contract workers are older than 55.

One job in particular is suddenly in high demand. It’s one that most of us had never heard of until just a few months ago: contact tracer. Based on state populations and projected COVID-19 infection rates, experts estimate that between 100,000 and 300,000 contact tracers will be needed nationwide. They can earn up to $65,000 per year.

“It’s a fantastic job for people who have been furloughed,” stated Roger Shapiro, a professor at the Harvard School of Public Health.

“It takes some training, but it’s not impossible to train almost anybody with reasonable social skills who can work off a script, begin a conversation with people, convey a few key messages and collect data.”

Contact-tracer hiring initiatives have been underway for months in some states. Check with your local and state health departments.

DO WHAT YOU ENJOY With so many avenues to follow, where do you begin? It may not be cost effective to decide that now is the time to train as a brain surgeon or a deep-sea diver. Nevertheless, there is a match for you somewhere between experiences you’ve garnered over the years and an urge to serve in a particular way.

More than any other age group, seniors are more likely to claim that the primary reason they’re working is to “do what I enjoy.” Follow your head and your heart, and you will find a way to fill your purse. ■

2020 SENIOR-FRIENDLY COMPANIES Another promising way to jump into the marketplace is to check out businesses that have demonstrated senior-friendly practices (see www.agefriendlyfoundation. org). Some companies you may have heard of include: • Aetna • AT&T • Comcast Cable Communications, Inc. • CVS/pharmacy • H&R Block Tax Services • Home Helpers • Internal Revenue Service • Kelly Services, Inc. • La Quinta Hotels • Marriott Vacation Clubs • Peace Corps • Quest Diagnostics • RetirementJobs.com • Right at Home • Safeway • Starbucks Coffee • Synergy HomeCare • The Home Depot • Transportation Security Administration (TSA) • Verizon • Walgreens • Wells Fargo

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35

BUSINESS PROFILE

Women, get free help with your health

Montrose program helps women navigate cancer screenings for free

By Jan Weeks

T

hough childbearing years may be long past, that’s no reason for older women to forget about their sexual health. Breast cancer and cervical cancer can take a toll on women even into their 80s and 90s.

Many seniors don’t want to ignore their health but have no idea where to start to arrange screenings. That’s where Codi Fisher comes in. As a state-employed Community Women’s Health Navigator, Fisher works through Montrose Memorial Hospital to help women of all ages find care. She does this through Targeted Community Outreach—a grant-funded program located in Montrose and run through Colorado’s Cancer Prevention and Early Detection program.

“The goal of the program is to increase breast and cervical cancer screenings among women in our community. I also work one on one with women to help them get screened,” Fisher said.

Fisher guides clients through the process at no cost to them. She can even schedule appointments and arrange for transportation through All Points Transit.

Because government guidelines on screenings are subject to change, Fisher prefers that clients follow their doctors’ recommendations. Family history and genetics

THE GOAL OF THE PROGRAM IS TO INCREASE BREAST AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENINGS AMONG WOMEN IN OUR COMMUNITY. tect cancer, they can show unusual growths that may be cancerous.

While Medicare will pay for a yearly mammogram and a Pap smear every three years, it usually won’t pay for an ultrasound.

However, Fisher can refer clients to a variety of programs and local resources that provide financial aid.

RAISING AWARENESS Codi Fisher gives women information on screenings, tests and more at BeaconFest Senior Fair in Montrose. also play important roles in deciding if screenings are essential.

LIFE-SAVING TESTS

Women sometimes shy away from getting mammograms because of moments of discomfort. Still, a few minutes of pain is no reason to shun this life-saving test. Mammograms can detect lumps too small to be felt in a self-exam as well as ductal cancer, which may spread if not treated. Typically, a doctor orders diagnostic screenings when

36 | BUSINESS PROFILE | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

a lump is found, there’s pain in the breast, discharge from the nipple, thickening of breast skin or changes in breast size or shape.

Pap smears catch cervical cancer in 80 percent of cases. They should occur as recommended by a doctor unless a hysterectomy has been performed. Though not as painful as a mammogram, Pap smears can be a little embarrassing as the cervix is swabbed. The swab is then tested for abnormal cells.

Although ultrasounds don’t de-

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Fisher and her staff raise awareness by attending community events where women in their target age range might be. However, COVID-19 has limited these occasions.

Social and cultural barriers can also be a challenge in small rural communities, where residents are used to being independent. Fisher said sometimes people are skeptical of programs designed to help them.

“This program is our tax dollars at work,” she said. “It’s a way to give back to people who live here.”

To contact Fisher, email cfisher@ montrosehospital.org or call 2522893 and leave a message. ■

Grandmothers: a legacy of love and raisin bread

By Lilli-Ann Buffin

I

n the time before Food Network and TV chefs, long before “foodie” was a word, there were meat-roasting, soup-simmering, cookie-making, bread-baking grandmothers.

My maternal grandmother— my sita— immigrated to this country from Lebanon when she was a young woman. Unable to speak English, Sita found her voice in the kitchen.

My grandmother articulated her love for us through the language of food. The table became the canvas upon which she displayed her artistry. Sita possessed a magic that could turn the simplest ingredients, such as rice or lentils, into delicious, exotic fare. “Food in proportion to the love,” was Sita’s motto. Neither stomachs nor souls went hungry in our grandmother’s house.

For me, Sita’s masterpiece was her raisin bread. Excitement stirred in the kitchen when raisin bread was in the making. Assisted by one or more of her seven daughters, Sita mixed the ingredients in a large wooden bowl. Soon sweet, slightly sticky dough dotted with dark raisins emerged much to the delight of her grandchildren.

Just before Sita covered the dough with her old navy blue sweater, she’d give my sister and me each a small ball of the sweet, stretchy paste. Sita told us that we could play with the dough, but we shouldn’t eat it. Out the back door and onto the porch we went. Occasionally, my sister or I tossed one of the little balls into the air and caught it so Sita could see from the window that we were indeed just playing with the dough. In fact, we were nibbling away.

I don’t recall the explanations we gave when our rations were consumed, but the taste and pleasure were worth any consequence. As I grew older, I realized that Sita had given us the dough to keep us quiet while the bread dough was rising.

But our younger selves thought we were helping, and we were eager and proud to be part of the special occasion.

After Sita died, my aunt, Lillie, took to making the raisin bread just the way Sita had—same wooden bowl, same recipe, the ingredients for which were recorded only on her heart. Old enough by then, my sister and I served as our aunt’s actual assistants in the bread-mak-

BEACON SENIOR NEWS ing effort. After the dough was kneaded and placed back into the bowl to rise, Aunt Lillie would send one of us to retrieve the same thin navy blue sweater Sita had worn and used to cover the dough.

As Aunt Lillie laid that old sweater across the dough-filled bowl, she would say, “And now for the love part.”

After Aunt Lillie died, the bread-making stopped. Unfortunately, the recipe went with her.

Where the sweater went, I do not know, but a portion of the love that filled the sweater that covered the dough is now inside of me.

More than 50 years have passed since I first stood alongside my sita in her bright yellow kitchen, eagerly awaiting my ration of that delicious dough. Her house is gone along with the recipe. Despite the many efforts of daughters and nieces, no one has been able to replicate the exact formula for our Sita’s raisin bread, but food continues to be a centerpiece in our lives—it is a reason to gather, a source of strength, medicine and comfort, and an offering of love in large proportions.

It’s around our tables that we celebrate all of the selves we’ve ever been and the ones from whom we came. So, here’s to grandmothers and to all of us who ate the bread, tasted the love, and who remember. ■

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37

Art on the park

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Glade Park provides an artist sanctuary

Art is Essential The Art Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-4pm ART CLASSES

for adults, children, and special needs

EXHIBITIONS CONCERTS PLAYS LECTURES 1803 N 7th Street 970.243.7337 gjartcenter.org

Follow us for videos, tutorials, and more

Cate Allen and her horse, Skywalker.

By Diana Barnett

T

he canyonlands surrounding Glade Park adjacent to the Colorado National Monument boast amazing views and an abundance of wildlife. These features, combined with the tranquil lifestyle, continue to attract people and inspire a community of local artists.

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“I literally became an artist because I moved to Glade Park,” said Cate Allen, a resident since 2006.

Despite being raised in Palisade by a family of women artists, Allen initially had no interest in following in their footsteps.

“I navigated toward my dad’s interests of horses, shooting guns, hunting, camping and fishing, and driving the tractor, but I always appreciated the art,” said Allen.

Not long after Allen and her husband moved to a property on Glade Park with 360-degree views, their neighbor asked Allen to paint with her.

“I remember saying, ‘Nope, I’m not the artist.’ But she was persistent,” Allen recalled. “We gathered a few supplies and had a lovely afternoon.”

Allen was hooked. She joined the Grand Junction Brush & Palette Club to gain more skills and honor her mother, who was a founding member. She took workshops from local artists and began entering her work in shows. She even connected with one of her favorite artists, Kevin Red Star.

“We’ve since become good friends. I’ve taken workshops from him, and consider him a mentor,” said Allen.

Bright, bold colors fill the large canvases where Allen portrays subjects of wildlife, animals and Native American scenes. She also experiments with her art printed on metal backgrounds as well as with an acrylic finish.

“Glade Park works for me because outside my doors and windows there is wildlife, our animals, scenery and western characters to inspire me,” said Allen. “There are other artists to hang out with, support each other and share ideas.”

See more of Allen’s work at www.ceallenart.com.

HIS LIFE’S PORTFOLIO Growing up in rural Indiana, Brad Barnett spent a lot of time out-

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

“GLADE PARK WORKS FOR ME BECAUSE OUTSIDE MY DOORS AND WINDOWS THERE IS WILDLIFE, OUR ANIMALS, SCENERY AND WESTERN CHARACTERS TO INSPIRE ME TOWARD A PAINTING.”

Paige’s traditional firetalker gourd is made to look burnt. doors. After attending the University of Montana, he fell in love with the west and stayed—and eventually ended up in Western Colorado.

While his early paintings included more western images, the red rocks, canyons and wildlife seen from his home on Glade Park continue to inspire his paintings.

“I paint what’s around me— things I like and enjoy—and always hope that others will have a connection to it also,” he added.

That might be why pets, grandchildren and wildlife find their way into his paintings. For his daughter’s birthday, Barnett presented her with a painting of her sons going fishing. He called it, “A Can of Worms”.

A trip to Kauai motivated Barnett to try his hand at landscapes.

The result was a series of island paintings, one of which won Best of Show at the Art Center’s Members Exhibit.

“When I think about it, my painting collection is a portfolio of my life—where I’ve lived, my family, where I’ve traveled. It’s a nice way to remember,” said Barnett.

See Barnett’s work at Working Artists Gallery in Grand Junction, or at www.bradbarnettart.word press.com

GOURD-GEOUS ART Creating fine gourd art fits in with the lifestyle Linda Paige and her husband enjoy in Glade Park.

Traditional fine gourd art is much more sophisticated than it sounds.

Utilizing hard-shelled gourds as a medium, the art is an ancient tradition in Africa and Asia, as well as among indigenous peoples of North and South America.

Paige first experimented with the craft nine years ago after attending a class at the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens.

“When a gourd is dried, it’s just like wood. You can sand it, carve it,

even burn it,” said Paige. “Gourds left drying in fields get beautiful patterns from the mold that forms on them, but they must be soaked and pressure cleaned before you can work on them.”

There are several methods of creating gourd art, and Paige does them all. Firetalkers look like they’ve been burnt; ancients are made to resemble recently unearthed Pueblo pottery; Buffalo gourds depict buffalo and feature

free form swirling designs; and aspen tree gourds include painted scenes of the trees and their beautiful fall colors.

Paige’s husband makes the juniper stands for the gourds, using wood from their property. His talent with the twisted wood led to his own artistic endeavors—unique lamps made with juniper bases.

“We’ve explored the back country all over the West. The expression of all those beautiful places and the people who lived here—the cliff dwellers—that is my inspiration for what I do,” said Paige.

Purchase Paige’s gourds from Willow Creek Herbs and Teas, 411 Main St. in Grand Junction. ■

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Brad Barnett works on his painting, “Turkey Flats.”

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39

MeSa County

CALENDAR

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm details before attending.

September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 September 1-7

Virtual Dinosaur Days

Perfect for the grandkids, Dinosaur Journey celebrates dinosaur education with printout coloring pages, at home activities and a scavenger hunt.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | www.museum ofwesternco.com/virtualdinosaur-day | 858-7282

September 1

Virtual Writers Night

Author Erica Kitzman explains “book therapy” and how a memoir-to-fiction process can help writers through emotional difficulties.

Email for Zoom link.

6 p.m. | wcwritersforum@gmail. com | Free | www.westerncolorado writers.org

September 2 & 9

Music Faculty Gala & Jazz Quintet

Colorado Mesa University’s music department serenades on the

The Redland’s Farmers’ Market offers a wide variety of produce and hand-crafted items, music and food trucks. Support your community of local farmers and artisans.

5-7:30 p.m. | 527 Village Way, Grand Junction | 245-1478

September 4

Movie Under the Stars

Glade Park Volunteer Fire Department hosts its last Friday night movie with a showing of “The Lego Movie 2” with entertainment by Move to Inspire. Bring chairs and warm clothes.

6-10 p.m. | 16400 DS Road, Glade Park | Free | GPMovieUnderThe Stars@gmail.com

September 5

Moonlight Paddle

Bring or rent a paddle board for a beautiful moonlit experience at Highline Lake State Park.

7-9:30 p.m. | 1800 11 8/10 Road, Loma | $15-$30 | www.gjsup.com | 443-4760

September 7

Rocky Mountain Gun Club’s CHP course is known for being one of the most in-depth and extensive courses available in Colorado for a concealed carry weapons permit.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | 545 31 Road, Grand Junction | $65 | 523-7642

Peruse tables with information on candidates, voter registration, ballot initiatives and more with speaker lineup Rose Pugliese, Janice Rich and Lauren Boebert.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lincoln Park, Grand Junction | Free | 216-8171

Concealed Carry Course

Academic Quad between Moss Performing Arts Center and Tomlinson Library two weeks in a row. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.

6:30-8 p.m. | 1100 North Ave., Grand Junction | $10 | 800-410-6287

Redlands Farmers’ Market

September 5

Freedom Rally

September 5

September 10-12

Taste the blend of art and science with Palisade winemaker Corey Norsworthy at Pressed. Pair wine with grilled cheese and charcuterie while enjoying live music.

7-9 p.m. | 392 W. Third St., Palisade | 464-2090

Pair laughter with a glass of Mesa Park Vineyards’ wines. Grab your lawn chair for a refreshing evening of laughter courtesy of nationally-recognized comedians.

7-8:30 p.m. | 3321 C Road, Palisade | $19 | www.mesaparkvineyards.com/ events | 628-9113

Evolve Wine pairing

September 5, 12, 19, 26

Comedy Night in the Vines

Band in Barrel concert series

Restoration Vineyards hosts different bands each Saturday at its Band in the Barrel concert series. Wine and food are available for purchase.

Reservations are highly encouraged due to limited capacity.

2-5 p.m. | 3594 E ½ Road, Palisade | Free | www.restorationvineyards. com | 985-0832

September 5, 12, 19, 26 Fruita Farmers’ Market

Fruita Farmers’ Market features local produce, handmade crafts and other local goodies at Reed Park, plus live entertainment!

8:30 a.m. to noon | 250 S. Maple St., Fruita | www.fruitafarmersmarket. org | 858-3894

September 12

Downtown Car Show

Main Street rumbles with the sound of motors for the 19th annual Mobility Driven Car Show.

The show brings antique, muscle and classic cars to the Convention Center parking lot for car enthusiasts to enjoy.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | First Street & Colorado Avenue, Grand Junction | www.downtowngj.org | 255-4923

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September 12

1 p.m. | 743 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction | Free | 628-3628

Operation Interdependence Poker Run

A poker run over the Grand Mesa benefits OI’s mission to deliver care packages to active military overseas.

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 2060 E. Main St., Grand Junction | 242-9495

September 12

Quilters Fabric Sale

Shop $2-$4 per yard quality fabrics with proceeds funding next year’s Mesas to Monuments Quilt Show..

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 627 Darren Way, Grand Junction

Colterris Winery hosts an array of events—from a winemaker dinner to horseback riding—perfect for any wine enthusiast! Cost, location and times vary per event. www.colterris.com | 464-1150

Join professional night sky photographers on a two-day trip including an evening under the Milky Way in Big Dominguez Canyon. Must bring your own camera and equipment.

1 p.m. | $250 | www.colorado canyonsassociation.org | 263-7902

September 17

Grocery Boxes for Older Adults

September 13 Calling all seniors 65+ looking to build relationships with others to Downtown Vineyard Church. Bring a dish to share.

11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 402 Grand Ave., Grand Junction | www.dtvchurch. org/events | 242-0813

Village Cooperative Seminar

Come to the DoubleTree to learn about Village Cooperative’s hassle-free home ownership for active adults 62+. Call to RSVP.

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Join AARP Colorado online for an interactive presentation in which you create and share your plans for the future. Register in advance.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | aarp.cvent.com/ tipsandtools

Wine Festivus

Night Sky Photography

September 16

Live longer, smarter webinar

Food Bank of the Rockies hosts a drive-through distribution of food boxes for adults age 60 or older at Little Salt Wash Park. Call to sign up.

11 a.m.-12 p.m. | 651 N Pine St., Fruita | 464-1138

September 18

Virtual Red Baron Ball

Family Health West hosts their annual event online to support their pediatric programs. Reserve your virtual seat at www.fhwcare.org/ RedBaronBallFB 6-7 p.m. | facebook.com/family healthwestfoundation | 858-2132

September 19

Community Harvest Day

Harvest fresh produce at Orchard

BIG RESULTS! Advertise your upcoming event or fundraiser in our Calendar of Events.

September 25-27

Ride through Grand Junction & Zion

Join other motorcycle riders on a three-day trip through the beautiful canyon lands of the southwest.

Register online. $25-$40 | www.westernslopehog. com | westernslopehog@gmail.com | 640-4687

September 25-27

September 16-21

September 12-13

Senior Brunch

September 16

Mesa Research Station with the opportunity to bring some home with you. Call to reserve your spot.

7 a.m.-3 p.m. | 3168 B ½ Road, Grand Junction | 774-242-5530

Geology & Paleontology on the River

September 18-20

Yoga & Wellness Rafting Retreat

Colorado Canyons Association’s multi-day rafting trip includes practice of meditation and yoga, scenic views through Ruby Horsethief Canyon and nutritious meals.

8 a.m. | $650 | www.colorado canyonsassociation.org | 261-0572

September 22

Refuse to be a Victim Seminar This seminar empowers attendees with situational awareness, confidence against criminal attack and more. Call to reserve your spot.

5:30-8:30 p.m. | Free | 270-3203

September 24

Last Market on Main

Come out and enjoy the end of the summer’s produce with the last Thursday Downtown Market on Main Street!

5:30-8:30 p.m. | Main St., Grand Junction | www.downtowngj.org

Raft the river with paleontologist Rob Gay and learn about the billions of years of history written in the rocks.

9 a.m. | $575 | www.colorado canyonsassociation.org | 261-0572

September 26

FAM Virtual Run

Virtually run or walk a 0.5k or 5k to raise money for Foster Alumni Mentors. Participants are encouraged to dress in costume and upload photos to social media! $15 | facebook.com/fosteralumni mentors | 234-3519

September 28

Devil’s Canyon Night Run

Runners of all abilities are welcome to join the Monday Night Group Run. There’s a 5-6 mile standard loop, as well as shorter options.

5:45 p.m. | Devil’s Canyon Trailhead, Fruita | 773-3124 ■

See more events at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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41

MeSa County

CLUBS

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

Editor’s note: Some club meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending.

American Association of University Women meets monthly.

Call for location.

2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 261-2112

Library.

3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 434-6936 Cribbage Lite meets at IHOP. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 201-7823 Cups Club meets at The Artful Cup in Grand Junction. Meet people through cards, games, talk and tea.

Wednesdays | 2 p.m. | 257-2390

Convention Center.

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

Tuesdays | 6:45 a.m. | 241-1900 Grand Valley Pets Alive meets at Church of the Nativity in Grand Junction.

3rd Wednesdays | 4:30-6 p.m. | 462-7554

Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Grand Junction.

Wednesdays & Fridays | 12:45 p.m. | 244-9989 Citizens’ Climate Lobby meets monthly online via Zoom. Check Facebook page for details and contact info.

250-4832 | grandjunction@citizens climatelobby.org | facebook.com/ CCLGJ Colorado Archaeological Society Grand Junction meets monthly. Call for location.

2nd Monday | 6:30-9 p.m. | 433-4312 | www.meetup.com/CAS-GJ/events Crafting Club meets at Clifton

Friendship Force meets at First Baptist Church in Grand Junction.

3rd Thursday | 6:15 p.m. | 778-6191 | www.ffwcolo.com

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands United Methodist Church.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 6 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 1 p.m. | 245-8817 or 257-1549

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

2nd Thursday, 7 p.m. | 4th Thursday, 6:30 p.m. | grandjunctionrock club@gmail.com

Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands United Methodist Church.

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

Golden K Kiwanis meets at the Redlands Community Center.

Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | facebook.com/gjgoldenk

Great Old Broads for Wilderness, Grand Junction Area Chapter, meets monthly. Call for details.

596-8510

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Two Rivers

Guys’ Giving Club meets quarterly at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction. Members donate $100 at each

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Not Going Quietly meets at Center for Spiritual Living Grand Junction.

This group creates a space of empowerment, grace, community and wisdom for those age 60 and older.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | 433-7799 Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets twice monthly. Call for location.

1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 208-9228 Outing Club meets for hiking, biking, skiing and other activities. Call for more dates and details.

801-638-8707 River City Singles meet weekly at Travelodge in Grand Junction. These young-at-heart adults get together for activities throughout the month.

Fridays | 5 p.m. | $20/year | 242-5252 Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at Shepherd of the Valley Lu-

Committed to keeping you safe.

Come see us for our fast and friendly service.

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42 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. www.mesacountygenealogy.org

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Knitting Club meets at Community of Christ Church in Grand Junction.

4th Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 623-1455

Newcomers Club meets at First Christian Church in Grand Junction.

2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org

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

719-580-0948 Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981 in Grand Junction.

All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 434-0868

meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions.

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

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

464-5668 | M-F 8:30 – 6:30; Sat. 9 – 5 707 Elberta Ave., Ste. B, Palisade, CO 81526

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) #3981 meets at the Post Hall, 503 Florence Road, in Grand Junction.

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

theran Church in Grand Junction.

2nd Saturday | 1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org SOS: Singles over 65 is a gender-balanced club for seniors who may be single, retired, new in town or not!

775-400-8700 | $20/year | www. meetup.com/singles-over-65

Western Colorado Amateur Radio Club meets at the Civil Patrol Hangar, 2868 Aviators Way. 2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | www.w0rrz.org

Sweet Adelines International, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church. Currently, meetings are held over Zoom. Call for an invite.

Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 256-9763 | www.grandmesaacappella.com Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets weekly. Call for location.

Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 250-3969 Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | www.thunder mountaincameraclub.org

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at Mesa County Libraries’ Central Branch.

1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 201-2865 | www.wcacastronomy.org Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets at First Congregational Church in Grand Junction.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 640-275 Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247 in Grand Junction.

4th Tuesday | Free currency evaluation at 5:30 p.m. | Meeting at 6:30 p.m. | 250-7036 Western Slope Liberty Toastmasters meets at Chronos Builders, 637 25 Road, Grand Junction.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 661-974-9904 Wheels West Car Club meets at the Whitman Center, Museum of Western Colorado.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www.wheels westcarclub.org ■

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Junction Masonic Center.

Thursdays | 261-1670

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Email your club information to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

““Baby Boomer”” Special “Baby ” Special Baby Boomer BoomerService Special hours Service hours Service hours Monday-Friday Monday-Friday 7:30-5:30 Monday-Friday 7:30-5:30 Saturday 7:30-5:30 Saturday 8:00-5:00 Saturday 8:00-5:00 8:00-5:00

FUN AFTER 50 To register for programs, and for COVID-19 updates, call Grand Junction Parks and Recreation at 254-3866 or visit www.gjparksandrec.org.

Pick up an early fall activity guide at the Grand Junction Parks & Rec office

HEALTH Thursdays

HIGH Fitness

HIGH Fitness transforms old school aerobics into a new fitness experience that combines simple, modern fitness techniques including cardio and strength training with music you know and love.

6:15-7:15 p.m. | Bookcliff Activity Center | $50 punch pass, $6 drop in

Tuesdays & Fridays

Rise and Grind Bootcamp

Use intervals and circuit training to work up a sweat, build and tone muscle, and enhance your cardio.

All abilities are welcome. Bring water and a mat. Class is from 6-7 a.m. at Stocker Stadium.

6-7 a.m. | Stocker Stadium | $50 punch pass, $6 drop in

Tuesdays & Fridays Gentle Active Yoga

This class is designed for active beginners and above.

8-9 a.m. | Senior Recreation Center | $50 punch pass, $7 drop in

September 2 & 16

Mindfulness to Reduce Stress

This online, free class teaches you three specific mindfulness practices that reduces stress and leaves you with a self-care plan you can implement right away. Pre-registration required at www.brainbellyheart. com/schedule.

4:30-5:30 p.m. (Sept. 2) & 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Sept. 16)| $20

DANCE Mondays

Line dancing

Dancers of all abilities welcome. No partner necessary. Session is from September 14-October 19.

12:15-2 p.m. | Senior Recreation Center | $18 session fee, $5 drop in

SPORTS September 22

Beginner Pickleball Clinic

Learn how to play America’s fastest-growing sport! Includes basic rules, equipment and play time.

Pre-registration required.

9-11 a.m. | Lincoln Park | $15

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43

MeSa County

BEACON BITS BEACON BITS

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending.

Weekly virtual bingo Fruita hosts a weekly Bingo game on Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. via Zoom. All you need is a computer or a smart phone. Don’t have either? No problem. You can play over the phone as well! Request a Bingo card and register to play by emailing jfoster@fruita.org or calling 858-0360 ext. 6408.

Virtual irrigation history program available on YouTube Palisade Historical Society member Gary Hines worked with Mesa County Public Libraries to record his popular program “History of Irrigation in Palisade: Waters for the Valley,” now available on the li-

brary’s YouTube channel. This video is a virtual journey through the past looking at how the vital irrigation systems in the Grand Valley were developed. View the 41-minute program online by searching the program title on www.youtube.com or visit youtu.be/3SCUE1_ajow Community Health Center Week MarillacHealth joined hundreds of other Community Health Centers across the U.S. in celebrating National Community Health Center Week (NCHW). The national campaign ran August 10–15 with the goal of raising awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s Health Centers and the

New Community Resources Network transforms how people in crisis or at risk get needed care Quality Health Network (QHN) is excited to announce that after several months of testing by early adopters, the new Community Resource Network (CRN) is officially live. Since January of 2020, several local organizations have been testing the network infrastructure, which enables them to provide critical resources to individuals more efficiently. The ability to address an individual’s

unmet social determinant needs, like housing and food insecurity, can contribute materially (over 50 percent) to a person’s health and well-being. Helping those in need earlier and in a more coordinated way can improve health care outcomes and reduce the cost burden born by taxpayers and businesses.

For more information about CRN, please visit www.community resourcenet.org.

Grand Rivers Humane Society seeks donations to purchase new adoption van Grand Rivers Humane Society (GRHS) seeks donations to hep them purchase a new adoption van, which will allow them to keep homeless pets comfortable and safe during the organization’s weekly adoption events.

Since 2005, the humane society has been able to pull homeless pets out of Mesa County Animal Services (MCAS)and find them loving homes. Because of this, MCAS no longer has to euthanize pets due to lack of space. GRHS also helps dogs and cats with ordedicated staff who bring health care to their communities, making it affordable and accessible to those who need it. Since becoming a Federally Qualified Community Health Center in 2015, patient visits to Marillac Clinic have increased, quality of care has improved and services have expanded. Marillac provided 58,074 visits to 12,145 patients in 2019! In celebration of NCHW, MarillacHealth delivered food to Homeward Bound, and appreciated staff and patients with special treats and care.

Roice-Hurst Shelter Break September 24-27 Join other animal lovers in the community and support Roice-Hurst

thopedic surgeries, treatments and more. Learn more online at www. grandrivershumane.org by scrolling down to Donate on GoFundMe under “Ways to Give.”

Humane Society’s annual Shelter Break to help break these pets out of the shelter for good! The Shelter Break is going virtual this year, and all of our canines and felines will have their own fundraiser pages and adoption goals for these pets awaiting their forever homes. Adoption discounts are based on the amount of funds raised, so share a pet’s page and challenge your friends and family to free these animals! As one of the biggest fundraisers of the year, the money raised also goes to supporting the shelter’s day-to-day costs. Tune in to Facebook Live and other virtual events. Learn more at www.rhhumanesociety.org/shelter break.

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Question Important dates for Grand Junction Recreation patrons and Silver Sneakers participants • Lincoln Park Pool closes on Sunday, September 27 • Orchard Mesa Pool opens on Monday, September 28 • Dog Days at Lincoln Park: Saturday, October 3 The SilverSneakers program is also offered for Lincoln Park Pool, and when re-opened, the Orchard Mesa Pool. SilverSneakers pays for its members’ use of the Lincoln Park Pool. To be eligible, you usually have to be over 60 years of age and must have a participating health insurance plan. Learn more at www. gjcity.org/residents/parks-recre ation/recreation/silversneakers Stop-motion filmmaker Evan Curtis is Mesa County Libraries’ 970West Artist in Residence Evan Curtis will offer weekly public meet and greets from 4-6 p.m. Thursdays beginning August 27 at the Mesa County Libraries 970West Studio, 502 Ouray Ave. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Curtis will offer two workshops to in-person audiences, and one virtual presentation. Those programs also will be recorded and posted online later so they can be viewed by patrons who cannot attend in person. Registration required. Call 243-4442 or visit www.mesacountylibraries.org • Stop-motion animation: Bringing objects to life - 6 p.m., Thursday, September 7 • Sound design and foley effects 6 p.m., Wednesday, September 16 • Virtual presentation: vintage toys - 6 p.m., Wednesday, October 7 ■

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer positions in any of our member agencies.

Call 243-9839, ext. 5 Grand Junction Visitor Center seeks volunteer tourism ambassadors to welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Flexible schedule.

256-4054 | kerryg@gjcity.org MOPS Kids (Mothers of Preschoolers) is looking for volunteers to watch children for several hours a month during MOPS meetings at Canyon View Vineyard Church in Grand Junction 2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 9-11:30 a.m. | 549-6637 Palisade Historical Society welcomes volunteers who would like to share the history of Palisade, and/or work on various committees and projects.

Email pbwalker630@acsol.net Foster Grandparents are needed in nonprofit school classrooms throughout Mesa County. Applicants must be 55+ and may be eligible for a tax-free stipend.

Call 298-9092 Senior Companions 55+ are needed to provide friendship and drive homebound seniors to errands and appointments.

Call 298-9092 Mesa County Spellbinders is looking for volunteers to learn a few storytelling skills and make a difference in children’s lives. Tell stories to students in kindergarten through fifth grade once a month during the school year.

Call 243-7303

Email your news briefs and volunteer opportunities to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Melanie Wiseman

What life experience would you recommend everyone try at least once?

Candie Kruse Burgess Grand Junction “Hold the door open for someone else, whether it’s in front or behind you. Just be polite, chill out and slow down!”

Joel Saria - Grand Junction “Hike as much as possible right here in our backyard in the Colorado National Monument.

My favorites are Serpents Trail and Old Gordon Trail.”

Lynda Stahl - Grand Junction “Everyone should travel to a new country and experience a different culture. It will open up your mind in ways that you can’t even imagine!”

Buzz Aust - Grand Junction “One thing I wanted to do once in my life was hike the Grand Canyon. We hiked with good friends down South Kaibab Trail, had dinner at Phantom Ranch and camped at Bright Angel Campground.

We had so many memorable adventures along the way and the scenery was amazing! If you like to hike and want a good adventure, put it on your bucket list. Be sure to get in shape first!”

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45

CALENDAR SUPPORT GROUPS

Montrose MeSa & Delta County

Editor’s note: Some support group meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending.

Caregiver Connections meets at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest.

Tuesdays | 10-11:30 a.m. | 241-2212 Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella Grand Junction, 628 26 1/2 Road. Call to RSVP. 1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 822-7070 Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents at Unity Church.

1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 434-3822 COPD Support Group meets at 581 Grand Valley Drive in Grand Junction.

4th Friday | 2 p.m. | 317-7556 | jimcampbell3@aol.com

GriefShare, a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those mourning the death of a loved one, meets at Clifton Christian Church, 3241 F ¼ Road.

Mondays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 628-1453 Grief Group for Pets meets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society.

2nd Wednesday, bi-monthly | 6-7 p.m. | 434-7337, ext. 103 Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists.

1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 245-2400 Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 298-2351 HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church.

3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 778-9274 or 241-4349

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12step meeting to help compulsive gamblers recover, is held at The Meeting Hall, 1938 N. First St. in Grand Junction.

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

Job Searching After 50 Networking Group meets at Mesa County Workforce Center. To attend, you must register as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-10 a.m. | 248-7560

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

3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 298-2351 MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room.

1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 298-2351 Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one.

Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 257-2390 MS Breakfast Group meets at Village Inn, 757 Horizon Drive.

1st Tuesday | 9 a.m. | 985-4935 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support for family members of adults who have a serious mental illness and connection groups for adults living with a mental illness. Now meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fruita.

4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www.NAMIWS.org | 462-3989 Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets at First Presbyterian Church.

Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. | 379-5786 TOPS Club weight-loss support group meets at Grace Point Church in Grand Junction.

Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 523-0243

A Room with a view Colorado Veterans Community Living Center • Short term rehab • Long term care • Secured memory care

ROOMS READY FOR YOU

625-0842 Admissions: Lisa Adams

46 | SUPPORT GROUPS | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

Western Slope Visionaries, a low-vision support group, meets at Center for Independence. Transportation is available.

3rd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | 241-0315

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

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

3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 298-2351 Yoga For Life meets at the St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room.

Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 p.m. | 298-2351 ■

Email your support group information to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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47

Montrose & Delta

CALENDAR 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Cedaredge Golf Course | $65 | 249-1116

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending.

September 1-30

September 4

Run and bike on your own time while raising money that will directly benefit the community of Montrose.

Visit the website to learn how to track your times and distance. blackcanyontri@yahoo.com | $60 | www.bctri.com

Listen to world-famous pianist Christoper O’Riley while enjoying brunch alongside a bubbly beverage.

Followed by a live silent auction.

11 a.m. | $275 | www.crested buttemusicfestival.org | 300-3409

Virtual Black Canyon Triathlon

September 1-2

Digital Fly Fishing Film Tour

Watch the 2020 Fly Fishing Film Tour with family and friends in the comfort of your own home with this virtual film event. $18-$30 | facebook.com/Uncompah greWatershedPartnership

September 2

Applying for a job in COVID

Looking for extra income? Montrose Workforce Center staff provide advice and tips for applying for jobs in this market. Email tevans@ montroselibrary.org to join.

6-7 p.m. | 320 S. Second St., Montrose | 249-9656

September 2

Watercolor Class

Discover the magic of watercolor with instructor Jodine Broscovak at Montrose Center for the Arts. Bring your own supplies.

1-4 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | $35 | 787-9428

Champagne Brunch Gala

September 5

Virtual Book Club

Discuss J.R.R. Tolkein’s “The Hobbit” on Zoom through the Montrose Regional Library. Email or call in advance to get the virtual video link.

9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montrose library.org | 249-9656, ext. 3

September 5, 12, 19, 26

Montrose Farmer’s Market

Peruse locally-sourced fruit, veggies, meats, and artisanal gifts. Plus, the market features the Food Box Project, which allows people to purchase fresh, local produce from market vendors for curbside pickup or home delivery ($20/box).

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | 421 S. First St., Montrose | Free | 249-0705

September 5 & 19 Paonia Block Party

Meet on Grand Avenue between Second and Third Streets for live music, sidewalk sales, local vendors and plenty of downtown dining options.

3-7 p.m. | Free

48 | CALENDAR | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

September 12

Love Your Gorge

September 6, 13, 20, 27 Shavano Twilight Tour

The Shavano Valley is one of the most picturesque and important rock art sites in western Colorado, used by both the Archaic and Ute peoples. Tours are led by a trained Shavano Valley Petroglyph Docent.

5:30-7:30 p.m. | 17253 Chipeta Road, Montrose | $15 | 249-3098

September 8

Donny Morales Live

Donny celebrates his birthday eve at The Courtyard 610 with a night of live music. Reservations required.

5:30-9 p.m. | 610 Clinton St., Ridgway | $20 | https://the-sherbino. square.site | 318-0892

Volunteer with Ouray Ice Park and Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership to make improvements to the riparian areas of the Uncompahgre River Gorge in Ouray, followed by a picnic party.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 280 Co Road 361, Ouray | www.uncompahgrewater shed.org/events | 325-3010

September 12-13

Night Sky Photography

Join Colorado Canyons Association’s professional night sky photographer on a two-day trip in Big Dominguez Canyon. Must bring your own equipment.

1 p.m. | $250 | www.colorado canyonsassociation.org | 263-7902

September 9

Ice Cream recipes

Craving something sweet? Meet virtually to discuss ice cream and frozen yogurt recipes you’ve tried, and receive tips from others. Email tevans@montroselibrary.org to join.

6-7 p.m. | 249-9656

September 12

Partners Golf Classic

This fun golf scramble supports the Partners of Delta, Montrose and Ouray Youth Mentoring Program.

September 13

Margarita Mariachi March

Crested Butte Music Festival features a traditional march through the streets of Crested Butte, led by an amazing mariachi band. Includes multiple stops for delicious margaritas.

4 p.m. | $40 | www.crestedbutte musicfestival.org | 300-3409

FUN AFTER 50

September 15

Floral Design Workshop

Zephyros Farm hosts an all-day event teaching the elements of floral design and growing flowers in the high desert. Includes lunch and a personalized bouquet to take home.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. |11466 3725 Road, Paonia | $50 | www.thelearning council.org/project/floral-design | 270-2510

September 19

Black Canyon Poker Run

your photography skills.

8 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1075 Sherman St., Ridgway | $295 | 318-0150

Virtual Tour de Cedars

Tour four of Cedaredge’s finest homes virtually, “meeting” the homeowners and hearing the stories about their homes. Purchase tickets online or at the Arts Center on Main Street.

Cedaredge | $20-$60 | www.grand mesaartscenter.com ■

September 27

Cousin Curtiss matinee

Award-winning photographer Michael E. Gordon provides inspiration, knowledge and hands-on learning in this weekend class to improve

Healthy Rhythm Music Services presents Cousin Curtiss in the Listening Room including an after show meet and greet. Doors open 1:30 p.m.

2 p.m. | 68 S. Grand Ave., Montrose | $8-$15 | www.healthy rhythm.net

See more events at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Little ad...

September 10

Uncompahgre River Way

This easy hike starts at the Dennis Weaver Memorial and stops at Ridgway for an early lunch before returning the same way. Approximately three miles round trip.

Bring lunch or money.

9:15 a.m.-1 p.m. | Meet at Montrose Rec Center | $15

Western Colorado Conservation Center

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Nature & Landscape Photography

TRIPS & TOURS

September 14

September 26

September 26-27

COVID-19-ReOpening-UPDATES

September 27

All vehicle types are welcome to ride the colorful Black Canyon Loop to benefit local veterans. Afterward, head to TJ Cycles & Offroad for food and drinks.

8 a.m.-5 p.m. | 1520 Bluff St., Delta | 399-3388

Support Montrose-Delta-Olathe’s annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s virtually this year by walking around your neighborhood and participating online.

8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | www.alz.org/walk

To register for programs, and for COVID-19 updates, call Montrose Recreation District at 249-7705 or visit www.montroserec.com/637/

BIG RESULTS! Advertise your upcoming event or fundraiser in our Calendar of Events.

Affordable rates for events of all sizes!

Drive from the Recreation Center to the Paonia River Park and hike three miles while learning about the current conservation projects in the lower Gunnison Watershed.

8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Meet at Montrose Rec Center | $29

September 22

Delta local business tour

DTS Fluid Power builds and repairs hydraulic components—some of the biggest in the world—for large mining and drilling equipment. See large lathes, mills, as well as unusual welding processes.

9:15 a.m.-12 p.m. | Meet at Montrose Rec Center | $19

September 29 Bridal Veil Falls

This moderately difficult four-mile hike starts at the large parking area just past the Pandora Mill at the east end of Telluride, and follows dirt and gravel switchbacks up the northeast wall of the dramatic box canyon.

7:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Meet at Montrose Rec Center | $19

CLINICS Tuesdays Pedicure

Service includes a foot assessment, toenail trim and filing edges, thinning of nails and callus removal if needed.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | $35 | Rec Center Party Room

September 11

Reflexology Foot Therapy

Schedule a 20-minute treatment with Cheryl.

8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | $15 | Rec Center Party Room

September 14 & 22 Chair Massage

Enjoy a 15-minute massage.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | $10 | Rec Center Party Room

WRITERS WANTED Write about local seniors and issues that matter. (and earn some extra cash) Send your writing samples to Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com No phone calls, please.

Call 243-8829 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | CALENDAR |

49

Montrose & Delta

CLUBS Center.

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

Editor’s note: Some club meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending.

Alpine Photography Club meets at Colorado Mesa University’s Montrose Campus, classroom 100.

2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus sings four-part acappella at Olathe United Methodist Church.

Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 765-7020

charities. Supplies are provided, but yarn donations are always welcome.

Experienced crafters will help beginners.

1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays | 2:304:30 p.m. | 249-9656

Citizens Climate Lobby meets monthly at the Montrose Library meeting room.

240-9146 | montrose@citizens climatelobby.org | www.citizens climatelobby.org Crafternoon members meet in the Montrose Library’s meeting room.

Members knit and crochet projects, which they donate to various

Columbine Quilters meet at Meadowlark Senior Apartments in Montrose.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 462-3849

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way in Montrose.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. to noon | 986-2550 | lvcribbs@charter.net Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club won’t meet during the month of September, but is still seeking new dancers. Call if interested in future square dancing classes.

7-9 p.m. | 773-4495 | deltawriter47@gmail.com Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado meet monthly in the Pioneer Room of Friendship Hall at the Montrose County Fairgrounds.

4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 417-4842 Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at the Olathe Community

Montrose Elks host bingo at the Montrose Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Drive.

Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 249-4852 Montrose Neighborhood Watch meets monthly.

2nd Wednesday | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | 901-5876 | hebert623@yahoo.com Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at the Montrose Pavilion. Dancers of all ages are welcome.

Bring a snack to share.

2nd & 4th Saturdays | $5 | 7:30-11 p.m. | 252-7172 San Juan Dance Club offers eight styles of dance lessons at the Lions Clubhouse in Montrose. Singles

Colorow Care Center Whether your care need is for a bit of physical, occupational, speech therapies or for long term nursing or memory care, we are the only Eden Alternative Registered Home on the Western Slope. Our facility is small enough to create the intimacy of home while the compassionate hearts of our care team family are BIG. Come See and Feel the Difference

DO YOUR DENTURES FEEL LIKE YOURS?

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Come make your dentures yours at 855 S. Hwy 50 Business Loop Olathe, CO 81425

970.323.5504

www.vivage.com/Colorow

We Accept: • Medicare • Medicaid • RMHMO • Private Pay • PACE • And More

50 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Quality, Affordable Care, for a Lifetime.

Question

without partners are welcome.

Thursdays | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 2529600 | patdouglas213@yahoo.com

Month

Compiled by Siggie Carpenter

What life experience would you recommend everyone try at least once?

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets monthly at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction.

1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org Women’s Giving Club of Montrose meets quarterly at The Bridges Country Club. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions.

1st Monday in February, May, August, November | 5:30 p.m. | givingclubofmontrose@gmail.com

OF THE

John & Yvonne McChesney - Montrose

Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at the Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 209-5326

Email your club information to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

John: “There is no greater feeling than being of service to others. Become a volunteer within your community.”

Yvonne: “Travel outside of Colorado. If you can, travel to the Deep South or to a foreign country and experience another culture. It will enrich your life.”

Doug Glaspell – Montrose “Everyone should read the Constitution of the United States of America at least once.

It was ratified in 1789 and begins with, ‘We the People...’”

Here to support you through life’s most difficult times so you can focus on what’s most important – each other.

Charles Barton - Montrose “Go to the doctor and grow a spine!

Develop strength in your character and keep smiling.”

Don Coram - Montrose

HOSPICE | PALLIATIVE CARE | GRIEF SUPPORT As a nonprofit, HopeWest has been serving our communities for 27 years.

Through creativity, volunteerism, and philanthropy, we profoundly change the experiences of aging, illness, and grief – one family at a time.

“Hit the ‘reboot’ button on your life.

Be a maverick; there’s boundless options to what you can accomplish even at our age.”

(970) 241-2212 • HopeWestCO.org WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES |

51

Montrose Montrose & & Delta Delta

BEACON BITS BEACON BITS

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending.

Delta hospital opens new urology clinic Delta County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) recently opened its newest clinic, Grand Mesa Urology, giving Delta County residents access to a range of male and female urological services. The new clinic is home to urologists who specialize in treating a range of problems that affect the urinary tract as well as the reproductive system in both men and women. Grand Mesa Urology is currently accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call 299-280.

Support bipartisan climate solution Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) is a

We

nonpartisan national and international source of positive environmental progress. CCL supports a bill in U.S. Congress now, Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act H.R. 763, that would curtail fossil fuel emissions and give carbon dividend money to citizens. Check out the website www.citizensclimate lobby.org to learn more about the bill and how you can contact your local representative to support it.

For more information on the Montrose CCL chapter, email chapman janet@yahoo.com.

San Juan Weavers Guild show canceled The San Juan Weavers Guild regrets to announce that its annual

This Land

The professionals at England Fence Company know the challenges of installing secured fencing from basic to custom gates and operators. We design and install distinctive driveway entries and archways, decorative arbors, pergolas and decking.

Crested Butte Music Festival

The Crested Butte Music Festival (CBMF) continues as scheduled, albeit with new health and safety measures, through October 3, with additional performances in December. Any cancellations or changes will be announced with plenty of notice. The CBMF 2020 season theme, “Not Just Beethoven,” celebrates Beethoven’s 250th birthday. Programs will be located across the Gunnison Valley, including at the new technologically advanced Crested Butte Center for the Arts—a $20 Show & Sale, originally scheduled for Saturday, November 21, has been canceled due to continuing concerns related to COVID-19 and difficulty finding a venue that will accommodate the necessary restrictions on gatherings and social

million performing arts center that features state-of-the-art acoustics. For details, call 3003409 or visit www.crestedbutte musicfestival.org distancing. The Guild is hopeful it can resume the long tradition of this event in 2021. For more information, visit www.sanjuanweavers. org, or contact Bobbie Irwin at 249-2981.

Seniors and Retirees have Different Real Estate Needs We help buyers and sellers transition into the next phase of life. The Real Estate Store has the highest number of certified Senior Specialists in one office in Western Colorado.

All work includes a two year workmanship warranty.

10

%

OFF

Call us today for a free estimate

labor on orders placed in September

249-4430

England FEncE company 1568 N Townsend Ave, Montrose • englandfence.com

52 | BEACON BITS | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Leslie Gore

Michelle Klippert

Peg Evanoika

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Senior Real Estate Specialist

lesliegorerealtor@ gmail.com

michelleklippertrealtor@ gmail.com

realtor@ pegevanoika.com

(970) 275-3195

(970) 275-3016

(970) 249-7653 500 E. Main St. Montrose, CO 81401 www.the-res.com Personal, Professional, Property Brokers

(970) 209-3934

BEACON BITS

IN MEMORY OF 9/11 National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation In August, Montrose Mayor Barbara Bynum joined mayors across the country in asking residents to make a long-term commitment to manage water resources more wisely.

The 2020 Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation challenges leaders to best inspire their residents to take informative, online pledges to use water more efficiently, reduce pollution and save energy. Last year, the City of Montrose finished sixth in the country and reduced the amount of hazardous waste entering watersheds (308 pounds) and household waste ending up at the local landfill (144,209 fewer pounds), with a carbon dioxide reduction of 22.7 million pounds.

Letter from Jan Edwards, President of Montrose County League of Women Voters In response to some recent comments, as President of the League of Women Voters of Montrose County also serving Delta County, I would like to clarify the League’s identity aS a nonpartisan political organization that neither supports nor opposes candidates or political parties at any level of government.

The League of Women Voters of Montrose County, as does the League of Colorado and the League U.S., encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Through its Education Foundation, the League works to register voters, provide voters with election information through voter guides as well as candidate forums and debates.

Further information is available at lwvmontrose.org, lwvcolorado.org, and lwvus.org, respectively.

Your local League will provide a webinar regarding the National

Popular Vote issue at noon on September 15, 2020. We will also provide virtual candidate and ballot issues forums this fall. For more information, to join or to donate, call 832-754-6302 or email janmsw96@ icloud.com ■

Email your news briefs to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

SUPPORT GROUPS Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room.

2nd Monday | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 874-6410 Stroke & Brain Injury Survivor Support Group meets at Rocky Mountain Therapy Services in Montrose.

September 16 | 5:30-6:30 P.M. | 249-6920

We should never forget the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

As Americans, on 9/11, let us take a moment of silence to give thanks for all lives sacrificed to protect our freedom.

“When you need us, we’ll be here.” - Chalmer & Marge Swain

Delta 874-9988

Hotchkiss 872-3151

Cedaredge 856-3232

Paonia 527-3836

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Sharing Ministries Food Bank in Montrose seeks dedicated volunteers for three hours, one day a week.

Call 240-8385 Senior CommUnity Meals needs volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors in Delta and Montrose counties. www.seniorcommunitymeals.org | 874-7661

www.taylorfuneralservice.com

Find the BEACON closest to you! www.BeaconSeniorNews.com/Home/Map

Friends of Montrose Library seeks volunteers to sort donated books, run book sales and serve on its board of directors. Meetings are held once a month.

Call 249-9656 Museum of the Mountain West seeks volunteer tour guides to bring the past to life for visitors.

Call 240-3400 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | BEACON BITS |

53

FUN & GAMES

ADD SOME

TO YOUR BOTTOM LINE by advertising here in Fun & Games

Call 243-8829 54 | FUN & GAMES | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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CROSSWORD

FUN & GAMES

Write-In

Bob

Prescott

COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3

★ Republican ★ Not a Politician ★ Trusted ★ Business

Owner

Facebook.com/votebobprescott

ACROSS

1. Mil. truant 5. 2:1, e.g.

10. Great serves 14. Comedian Carvey 15. Chilean pianist

Claudio 16. Out of sight 17. Flabbergasts 18. Hilton competitor 19. Cross inscription 20. Eyelash cosmetic 22. Version 24. Hotpoint rival 26. Prophet 27. Dough 30. German sub 32. China’s Zhou ___ 33. Skin marking,

often due to injury 34. Deutchmark replacement 38. This is what eyes do 39. Most orderly 42. One of a D.C. hundred 43. Swift steed 45. Use a swizzle stick 46. Reply to

“Who’s there?”

48. Bony prefix 50. Spain and Portugal 51. Gossip 54. Polite turndown

56. Make good as new 58. Lucidity 62. Shrinking sea

of Asia

63. Steaming 65. Hawkeye State 66. Male parent 67. Rest on the surface

of a liquid 68. Steven Chu’s

cabinet dept.

69. Pianist Myra 70. Shouts 71. Hollow grass

DOWN

1. Brother of Hoss 2. Toddler’s glassful 3. Wallet fillers 4. Milan opera house 5. Enthusiastic 6. Indo-European 7. Song syllable 8. Must’ve been

something ___

win’s brother

9. Open air 10. Shake 11. Funnel-shaped 12. Register 13. Paris divider 21. Lower a sail 23. George Gersh-

28. Doozy 29. Olive genus 31. Boxer Max 33. Fill to the gills 35. The Beatles’

“Back in the ___” 36. Do followers 37. Draft classification 40. Convert into

an aromatic chemical 41. Leg bone 44. Glass containers 47. Small dog 49. Road-sign word 50. Keys 51. Rubbish 52. Lofty nest 53. Autocratic

Russian rulers 55. The number

system with

base 8 57. First name

in mysteries 59. Actress Skye 60. Affectedly dainty 61. American football measure 64. “You’ve got

mail” co.

Write-In-Prescott.com SUDOKU

25. Public sale 27. Tableland

Turn to page 56 for your puzzle answers WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | FUN & GAMES |

55

FUN & GAMES

WORD SEARCH F A A S E L I L D E R A R T O R G D E S X I A T K N C L A G L C O O A D V R H E N N E E U O R R C E A S R O S P Y A U B T V N A O X W C N S O G C M P Y V E E O F R O R F F Q U A N D A R Y O A B O B U M E L L A O B F L P S W E T N E I D L E T A N T E R O O B E I H S O L O O E F E I A S O O D C R N L C T T F M O E A I M N D T S P N E U S A A E O A A D N N C A E O S X I A F O U Y C R N L R E R G A D C T N L K V N G O N D A E H O E O G S U B A O A E M E K I T C A R S O N R Y T A R R L O S B C R E S T O N E N E E D L E E E L E A N P C A A D E M O C R A T E S F S O T S A N G L R F E B P R B R L P S I T R A O N L P A F T R N O A E D S F H U C A W S N A V E S N O T T B H M Y O A R O O T E L R L O I E C C L A D G A T M I R B A O A S A L N E E E G E A V R C P S A B P H E N S A R K D C C A I E G E N

e b i r c s Sub . . . e h t to

FIND THE 32 HIGHEST PEAKS IN COLORADO 1. Elbert 2. Princeton 3. Massive 4. Belford 5. Harvard 6. Crestone Needle 7. Blanca 8. Yale 9. La Plata 10. Bross 11. Uncompahgre 12. Kit Carson 13. Crestone 14. El Diente 15. Lincoln 16. Maroon

17. Grays 18. Tabeguache 19. Antero 20. Oxford 21. Torreys 22. Sneffels 23. Castle 24. Democrat 25. Quandary 26. Capitol 27. Evans 28. Pikes 29. Longs 30. Wilson 31. Cameron 32. Shavano

Answers from page 55 and 56

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credit card exp. date

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Our award-winning website has: • More fascinating stories!

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OPINION

The growing hazard of “distracted walking”

By Michael Murphy

R

umors regarding a new iPhone coming out in the fall have started popping up on major news outlets. Note that I said rumors, not facts.

One model of the new phone “could go” as large as 6.7 inches compared to the current 6.5-inch display on iPhone 11. That’s swell, because now it will be easier for me to read all the hearing aid and funeral home ads that I receive.

Another rumor is that the new iPhone will likely be available in new colors including—better sit down for this—light orange! There are even “signs suggesting” an improved camera module which, of course, means higher definition pictures of cats kissing their owners’ noses! Hard to contain one’s excitement about that.

However, it’s about time that companies start placing warning labels on their phones.

If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve probably noticed there is a movement proclaiming it’s time to do something about the growing hazard of “distracted walking.”

Distracted walking is a lot like the distracted driving problem, which has led to bans on using phones while cruising in the car.

When I was a kid driving around town, I don’t recall distractions in the car being a big problem. Sure, I had to occasionally bang on the dashboard to get the car radio’s AM channel to come in clearly. Oh, and no doubt when the warn-

ing lights on the car’s temperature, oil, and gas gauges all started blinking bright red simultaneously, I was momentarily distracted, but just turned up the radio and kept on driving.

Today, distracted walking is a real thing. The U.S. National Safety Council has spelled out the dangers of using phones while walking in the simplest of terms: “For pedestrians, the distraction can cause them to trip, cross roads unsafely or walk into motionless objects such as street signs, doors or walls.”

Heck, I’ve been guilty of all three of those on a regular basis, and I don’t even own a phone!

Again, I don’t recall distracted walking being a thing when I was a kid. Back then, the purpose for walking was to get from Point A to Point B, like from home to work, school or church.

There simply wasn’t time to be looking at funny videos while trying to get where we were going.

One thing that distracted pedestrians crossing streets should realize is that there is a very good chance many of the vehicles www.BeaconSeniorNews.com/Home/Map whizzing by are being controlled by drivers who are also staring at phones!

So remember, if you do happen to purchase New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Mirrors NEED Table GLASS REPAIR? No Job Too Smal the latest iPhone this Tops • Insulated Glass Shower & Tub Enclosures coming fall, be sure to New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Rescreens & New Screens Mirrors • Table Tops • Insulated Glass read the warning label Same day service on most autoglass Shower & Tub Enclosures • Rescreens & New Screens if it has one—just Same day service on most autoglass don’t do it while crossing the street. ■

Find the BEACON closest to you!

NEED GLASS REPAIR? No Job Too Small

The

Glass Brokerage 970-243-4507 970-243-4507

Mike Murphy is retired after a 35-year teaching and coaching career. He 2200 E. Main • Grand 2200 E. Main • Grand Junction • Open 8am - 5pm M-F & Junction 8am - Noon Sat. • All Credit Cards Accep has a master’s degree in English from the University of Nebraska and is an Open 8 am - 5 pm, M-F • All Credit Cards Accepted Associated Press award-winning columnist.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2020 | OPINION |

57

CLASSIFIEDS HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL OR A SERVICE TO OFFER? List it here—pricing starts at just $29 per month!

Call Stacey at 243-8829, ext.102, to reserve your space in next month’s issue.

FOR RENT MAPS 55+ Living Opening Summer 2020! Affordable, independent senior living in Moab, UT now accepting applications, age 55+. 1- and 2-bedroom units, pet friendly. Housing Choice Voucher accepted. 435-259-2600; cinemacourt@sellersgroup.net.

FOR SALE Van with wheelchair lift 2001 Toyota Sienna with semi-low miles, 6 cylinders, automatic, with remote control Bruno wheelchair lift installed by The Chair Doctor. $3,500. 549-4071.

Kids Saddle Kids saddle for sale, too big for a mini-pony. $200. Delta, CO. Text 901-9364 for more info.

Pellet Stove Older pellet stove; works but needs fan motor replaced. Delta, CO. Stove and pipe, $75. Text 901-9364.

HELP WANTED

WE’RE HIRING! ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES FREELANCE WRITERS PHOTO JOURNALISTS

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com No phone calls, please.

GARDEN SERVICES Be self-reliant; plant a garden Lawn and Garden Service. Tiling, aeration, sprinklers, pumps and fences. Sam’s Tilling and Maintenance, 697-6031.

HOME CARE Compassionate, Dependable Home Care Provider with 28 years’ experience.

Medication reminders, meals, light cleaning, outings, errands, companionship and respite and dementia care. Excellent references. $15/hr. Please leave detailed message if no answer.

433-7144.

HOME SERVICES B-N-Trees Tree removal, stump grinding, trimming. Call Bill 430-1970.

The Cleaning Lady Fall is a perfect time to declutter your house! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing, and cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just a one-time shot.

Linda K. 720-841-7505 or 263-7364.

Scene Clearly, LLC Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter!

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

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the Valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048.

58 | CLASSIFIEDS | SEPTEMBER 2020 |

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SERVICES

Pat's Hair Salon & Ceramics All Hair Salon Services Available

Great Prices on Perms Senior Discounts

CERAMIC & PORCELAIN DOLL MAKING CLASSES & SUPPLIES

778-8075

Computer Lady, LLC In-home repair. 18 years serving Mesa County. Windows, internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified. Remote services available. www.CompLady.com or 255-1216.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Medical Marijuana Doctor Days in Montrose and Grand Junction Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting. Call for appointment times and days.

720-443-2420 or visit www.healthychoicesunltd.com.

Harmonic Light Sessions ATP production for energy.

Increase in nitric oxide for circulation, detoxification, oxygen and nutrient delivery.

Reduction of inflammation and pain relief. DNA response for cell regeneration. Massage therapy. harmoniclightquantumhealing.com.

319-6818.

NOW OPEN

In-home toenail care JQ Foot Care will provide in-home toenail care. This includes cleansing of feet, inspection, nails trimmed, filed and lotion applied with massage. $35 for session. Education to promote foot health. 250-7454.

My Little Haven Is NOW OPEN! 575 25 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81505. Our hours are Tues-Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New and used home furnishings, antiques and collectibles.

986-8141.

Regan’s Regal Beauty Perms, color, haircuts for women and men. New location at 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction.

Licensed cosmetologist. Call Regan Clements at 719-425-0543 to book today!

HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL OR A SERVICE TO OFFER?

List it here!

Call Stacey at 243-8829

to reserve your space in next month’s issue.

BIG CHANGES AHEAD FREE MEDICARE INSURANCE EVALUATION

Walk-Ins Welcome! 2755 North Avenue Local Licensed Sales Agent • Medicare Advantage Plans • Medicare Supplement Insurance • Part D Prescription Drug Plans

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We have the personal protective equipment and protocols in place to ensure your safety from COVID-19

Attention M e dicare Patients Do you have missing, loose or painful teeth?

Do you have ill-fitting, loose, uncomfortable or painful dentures?

Do you have difficulty chewing, eating or talking?

Do you have chronic headaches?

Call us today for a free consultation and 3D image!

243-2025

Do you need implants or extractions?

Medicare can help cover a large portion of these dental needs.

2412 Patterson Rd Grand Junction, CO 81505

Dr. John Poovey

Dr. Brandon Wilcox