BEACON - July 2012

july 2012

Vol. 26

western colorado

Senior Games REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Monday, august 13, 2012 Thank You to our Facility Sponsors Ale House The Atrium Orchard Mesa Pool Orchard Mesa Lanes Bookcliff Activity Center Lincoln Park Golf Course Senior Recreation Center

For more info on Brown & Brown, P.C. scan this QR code with your smart phone

Aug. 27-Aug. 31

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Your Guide to the Western Colorado Senior Games

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

No. 7

Western Colorado’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 31,510 Readers.

These seniors got game.

The Olympic athletes have nothing on these competitors.

What’s Inside Advice and Ideas............................. 9 Classifieds..................................... 44 Crossword..................................... 33 Delta/Montrose County................. 38 Finance.......................................... 30 Gardening...................................... 24 Garfield County.............................. 42 Health & Wellness.......................... 10 Laughing Matters.......................... 16 Local Lore...................................... 20 Mesa County.................................. 34 Parks & Recreation........................ 22 River City Singles.......................... 35 Travel & Recreation....................... 18

Baseball feveR It all starts here, with organizations like Grand Mesa Little League and volunteers like Dave Mantlo. Read about his 48 years inside...

Local Lore Do any of these local pastimes ring a bell?

Read more about their history inside.

Art Jewelers This group of artists use their talents to make jewelry. How do they do it? Read more on page 31.

Grand Valley Opera is not an oxymoron.

On the contrary, we have an inordinate number of talented singers. Read more on page 28.

Seth Barker pitches for the Grand Junction Gators, a competitive team. But he started off playing Little League with Dave Mantlo.

Photo by Heidi Graf

2

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Editorial 3

28th Amendement to Constitution?

By Kevin VanGundy

Fall Health & Wellness

D

In a recent study of today’s active, affluent and aging adults, a healthy mind and body was cited as the topic of most interest to them. Our September insert will focus on health and wellness information from some of our esteemed advertisers. Would you like to contribute an article?

id you know that if a young man or woman serves in the U.S. Military for 20 years, risking life and limb while protecting our country, they only get 50 percent of their pay at retirement? Compare this with members of Congress, who hold their elected positions in the plush confines of the capitol, protected by these same men and women, and who will receive their full pay at their retirement, even if it was just for a single two-year term.

Some are now proposing a 28th Amendement to the U.S. Constitution: “Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives; and, Congress shall make no law that applies to the Senators and/or Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States.” I’d support that. How about you?

Pets on parade!

August is one of our most popular issues as we focus on pets and their people. Please send us your pet photos and pet stories, but not your pets, as we’d like to publish them in next month’s BEACON. Send them to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com.

Long-Term Care

Montrose-Delta BeaconFest Finally, a senior fair that’s fun! Our second annual BeaconFest at the Montrose Pavilion on Thursday, September 20 will not disappoint. More vendors, interesting speakers and great entertainers will make this the best senior event of the year.

For booth information, call me at 243-8829. We have just a few openings available.

We’re going to the Telluride Jazz Festival. How about you?

The Telluride Jazz Festival has earned national and international favor for featuring the best in classic, mainstream, blues, and ethnic jazz music. Aside from great music, there will be a parade, wine tasting, and more. This year’s festival is held in Telluride’s Town Park on August 3-5, and the BEACON is giving away TWO 3-Day Passes (a $270 value!) to this year’s festival. For details, see the entry form on page 37 or visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com. ■

Also in August, our special insert on Long-Term Care will focus on the “continuumof-care” that one goes through as they age. The options available to you or a loved one can be confusing and expensive. The BEACON will help you sort them out.

As a sponsor of this important publication, businesses can show our readers how they can best help them and their Did you know that small dogs can fit in most carry-on luggage? loved ones navigate Learn other useful pet tips in August’s BEACON. Here, Daisy gets the aging process. ready to go to Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Baja. Bon voyage!

Accumulating wealth is one thing. Preserving it is another.

Let our family help yours.

Sign Up for Our E-Blasts!

www.brownandbrownpc.com

Proud SPONSOR of the

2012 Western Colorado Senior Games

Registrants: Look for the code in your goodie bag, then bring your code to our office between Aug. 27th and Aug. 30th to see if you are a gift certificate winner. At our office you can pick up your raffle ticket toward the $300 Downtown Dollars prize.

The raffle will be held at the banquet dinner on August 30th at 6 p.m. See you there!

(970) 243-8250 Fax (970) 241-1144 1250 E Sherwood Dr. Grand Junction, CO

Baird B. Brown ♦ Clara Brown Shaffer ♦ Jamie J. Roth

www.spoonsbistroandbakery.com

Fresh. Delicious.

From the Heart.

Sunday Brunch at Spoons 3090 North 12th Street, Unit B Located in Fairmount Health Park Proceeds support the mission of Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado

4 Cover Story

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Dave Mantlo: Grand Mesa Little League’s all star nual registration fees, but it actually costs $175,000 to run the ballpark. rand Mesa Little League celebratHow do they make up the shortfall? ed its 50th anniversary this year Mantlo credits Grand Junction busiand its proudest supporter is 66-yearnesses for the $6.5 million worth of old Board President Dave “Meatloaf” remodeling and improvements that Mantlo. have transformed a vacant lot into Mantlo has served as president off a community showpiece. At every and on for 30 of the 48 years he has turn, local merchants have stepped been associated with the nonprofit up to the plate by youth baseball supplying equipment, organization. How materials and expert did he get so lucky? advice for a fraction “Nobody else of the cost. wanted to do it,” “People don’t like Mantlo said. to see me coming Mantlo spends 80 through the door behours per week at cause they know I’m the GMLL facility. going to ask them for His official duties money,” Mantlo said. include filing the “But they know it’s annual charter, for the kids. It’s not insuring the teams, for me.” and submitting Mantlo said Westreports to the Disern Implement has trict Administrator supplied GMLL in Waco, Texas. His with riding mowers unofficial duties inand Barnes Electric clude watering and Dave Mantlo, 66, has given his heart to Grand Mesa Little League for almost 50 years. recently installed elecmowing the grass trical meters to save on the fields, construction projects, on energy costs.

Grand Junction Pipe maintenance and cleanup. & Supply contributed to the sprinkler “We used to pay $300 a week to system, and Bud’s Signs donated the have someone groom the fields back lighted sign at the entrance to the in 1973, but I didn’t like the job he parking lot. Bright red awnings from did,” Mantlo said. So he volunteered B&H Sports provide shade for the to take over. public. The kitchen inside the conIt takes a community cession stand is equipped with a grill Every square foot of the grounds obtained from Burger King, a sink at GMLL reflects a community that from City Market, and a top of the supports Little League. In 1963, Loyd line ice machine from School Files donated property behind the ArDistrict 51. mory on 28 Road and North Avenue, As President of the Board for Grand A tractor shed was built, trenches marking the start of the organization.

Mesa Little League, Mantlo said he were dug and a sprinkler system GMLL played at that location until gets a lot of questions from patrons, was installed, backstops went up, 1975, when the land was sold to but the one that lights his fuse is, and lights were put in. One of the K-Mart.

“Where does all the money go?” projects Mantlo is most proud of is In 1974, Files purchased the prop“I tell them to look around at the the extensive netting that protects erty that GMLL currently calls home tables, the bleachers, the cement spectators from foul balls. at 28-3/4 Road and North Avenue in sidewalks between the fields, the “One day a ball almost hit a baby’s Grand Junction. Files donated money lights, the netting, the backstops, the head and it scared me half to death,” to help set up the new park, which Mantlo said. “Now we have a net that tile in the bathrooms, the doors on was open for business in 1975. guarantees you will never get hit by a the bathroom stalls…” Mantlo said.

Mantlo recalled a turning point at A love for kids GMLL when he was elected president ball batted from the playing fields.”

Mantlo worked as a railroad conGMLL receives $40,000 from anin 1980.

By Carla Johnson

G Rockies Fever

By Marsha Kearns Baseball season in Grand Junction usually starts with Colorado Rockies exhibition games on TV. Then in May, live baseball comes to town with the Junior College World Series. But now, we have a live, professional rookie team, the Grand Junction Rockies.

I was right behind home plate among 4,850 excited and happy spectators at the season home opening game on Saturday, June 23. From seniors, to boomers, to moms and dads and kids, camaraderie and welcoming feelings abounded. There’s nothing like a ballpark crowd to make you feel at home—especially when you are at home.

Speculation ran high when a hovering, red helicopter settled down in the outfield. Corky the Coyote, the team’s mascot, got off the copter, threw his hands in the air, and began rousing the crowd to massive expressions of enthusiasm. We applauded the occasional great play and recognized the unfortunate home runs by the Idaho Falls Chukars. But the loudest cheering was for our team. The best part was that the Rockies played better and won the game 10–6.

For a schedule of games, visit www. gjrockies.com. Grab a seat cushion and come on out. It’s time to “Play ball!”

GJ Rockies tickets are available online at www.gjrockies.com, www.tickets west.com, all City Market stores, at the gate before a game, and at the Rockies office at 1315 North Ave. Call 255ROCK (255-7625) for more information.

All seats are reserved: $10 inside and $8 outside the baselines.

“I left the meeting to tend to something and when I got back they said they elected me president,” he said.

“After I uttered a few choice words, I told them ‘Here’s the way it is. If you’re going to do this to me we’re going to do a major project every year.’”

So a gradual transformation began.

July 2012 ductor for 37 years before an injury forced him to retire on a disability pension in 2004.

From his earliest recollection, Mantlo said he knew what he wanted to do when he grew up.

“I wanted to be a daddy,” Mantlo said. “I love kids. I had five kids of my own and all of them were in Little League.”

Mantlo has three sons and two daughters ranging in age from 28 to 46.

As a fourth-grader, Mantlo played in the Old Timers Association.

“We had no coach,” Mantlo said. “We just picked a captain. We had a tiny backstop and one ball. If you lost it, you didn’t play anymore.”

Mantlo’s personal hero is Bill Fanning, a former coach at Grand Junction High School.

“He was Grand Junction baseball for 35 years,” Mantlo said. “He knew baseball inside out, upside down. I don’t know anybody that didn’t love Coach Fanning. He was very fair, very even tempered, as long as you didn’t make a mental error.”

Mantlo’s wife, Linda, introduced him to Little League.

“I fell in love with a little blonde girl in 1965,” Mantlo said. “Her little brother was playing Little League. I got talked into being an umpire and never got out.”

Mantlo said that the kids he has coached that stand out in his memory were not the star athletes, but the ones with personality.

“Joe was a great kid, but he was a terrible baseball player,” Mantlo said. “He played left field and one day he had a pop-up coming his way. He just stood there and didn’t even make a play for the ball.

He missed it and we lost the game. I asked him later, ‘Joe, didn’t you see the ball?’ And he says, ‘No, but I heard it.’ He

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Many kids in competitve leagues started off at GMLL.

Mantlo volunteered to be dunked in a dunk tank at GMLL’s end of the season celebration.

wasn’t bothered a bit about losing the game. He just had fun.”

Mantlo lamented that the competitive league has thinned the ranks of Little League players.

“We’re a third of the size we used to be,” Mantlo said.

The biggest issue for him is not that the competitive league pulls kids from Grand Mesa’s rosters, but that there is snobbism associated with signing on with the competitive league.

“I talk to kids who say, ‘I don’t play Little League anymore. I play competitive.’ Well, whoop-dee-doo! That doesn’t make you better,” Mantlo said.

Mantlo stressed that Little League exists to allow young people to play ball, to learn sportsmanship, and to improve their athletic skills.

“We’ve come to the realization that Little League is going to be the everyday average kids’ venue for baseball,” Mantlo said. “It’s a great thing to win, but the kids are here primarily to have fun.”

Advice from the coach As a father, Mantlo feels terrible when he watches parents berate their children for errors made during baseball games.

“Parents need to let their kids have fun,” Mantlo said. “After the game, put your arm around your kid and let him feel good about it. If you criticize them for some little mistake, you just took the whole night and Mantlo promotes sportsmanship and fun among players. turned it into nothing.”

Mantlo believes that parents should help their children identify areas where they may improve, but timing is everything. He suggests that specific instances be brought up a day or two later in casual conversation when emotions are in check and the focus is on the next game.

“Parents think their kid is getting shafted if he’s asked to play outfield,” Mantlo said. “They Mantlo volunteers 80 hours per week at the GMLL park. want their kid to be pitcher. My

Cover Story 5

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher ............................ Kevin VanGundy Founding Publisher................... Susan Capps Editor........................................ Cloie Sandlin Office Manager ........................Genevra Shal Graphic Design.............................. Heidi Graf Production/ Photographer......... Karen Jones Delivery........................................Al LeFebre Publicity...................................... Val Begalle Advertising Sales.........................Sue Bowen Advertising Sales.................Jeanette Kiphart Advertising Assistant...............Jamie Begalle Mascot............................................... Bogart Delta-Montrose Bureau Advertising Sales.................... Virginia Carlile Delivery..........................................JR Milner Garfield Bureau Editor.......................................Cheryl Currier P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 970.24 3.8 829  80 0. 536.7516 fax Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com E-mail: Beacon@ PendantPublishing.com The Beacon is published at the beginning of the month.

Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta, Montrose and Garfield counties.

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

Display advertising rates are available upon request.

Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication. © Copyright 2012 • All Rights Reserved

“Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”



—Thomas Jefferson—

6 Feature Story

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

own son played better at second base, but his team needed a centerfielder. He did well there because he had a real nose for the ball.”

Mantlo is a firm believer in teamwork.

“Play for the name on the front of the shirt, not the name on the Mantlo said he has received more out of his 48 years with GMLL than back,” Mantlo what he invested into it. He hopes to make it to 50 years with GMLL. said.

Mantlo got a Mantlo insists that he has received little misty-eyed thinking about his more out of his years with GMLL years at Grand Mesa Little League. than he has invested into it.

“I love the kids,” he said. “I stop “I get 25 or 30 graduation anand ask them if they’re having fun nouncements every year,” Mantlo and 90 percent of them say yes. I get said. “Sometimes I don’t remember after them sometimes when they run the kids, but I make sure they each across the picnic tables. I ask the kids get a $20 bill.”

‘Who owns this place? You do, so Mantlo enjoys some tangible bentake care of it.’” efits for his contribution to Grand Mantlo has suffered some physical Mesa Little League. Fourteen years setbacks. He broke a leg and had a ago, the Senior Field was dedicated heart attack a year ago, but he shows to him and the gift shop has been no signs of slowing down. dubbed Dave’s Shirt Shack.

“You’re either moving forward “I’ve been involved with Little or moving backward,” Mantlo said.

League for 48 years,” Mantlo said.

“You’re either getting older or getting “I’d like to make it 50 if they’ll have better.” me.” ■

Fourteen years ago, the gift shop was dubbed “Dave’s Shirt Shack” after Mantlo.

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Feature story 7

Veterans team brings home honors A

the team to the year of plangames. Bullock ning, athletic was at every event training and funpossible during draisers paid off the weeklong big time for the competition with Grand Junction encouragement, Champs, the Vetreminders, and erans Golden Age more than a few Games Team. laughs to keep his Twelve team athletes at peak members reEmma Folensbee won three gold medals. readiness. turned home The team apprefrom the recent ciates the comgames in St. Louis, munity’s support Missouri, with of the fundraising seven medals and events that made the one-of-a-kind it possible for Challenge Award them to attend the won by Lee Uhey. event. Over 800 The Challenge veterans from 42 Award is given states and Puerto once each year to a first-time Al Atkinsen was the only participant in bicycling. Rico competed in this year’s event. participant that Also, 1,200 volundemonstrates the teers assisted in characteristics the project. of a true athlete.

The Golden Age Uhey, a veteran of Games is the only the Navy Seabees, national, multialso brought event sports and home the gold recreational semedal in the niors’ competition javelin event.

Other team Jacqualine Johnson tries her hand at Dominoes. program designed members who to improve the brought home quality of life for medals were all older veterans, Emma Folensbee, including those who earned gold with a wide range medals in shot of abilities and put, javelin and disabilities. It is bowling; Joe Reone of the most plogle, who won progressive and a silver medal for adaptive rehaair rifle; David bilitative senior Murphy, who won sports programs a bronze medal in Although he won a bronze medal in javelin, in the world, javelin; and Darrel David Murphy also participated in shuffleboard. offering 14 Chapman, who different sports earned a silver medal in golf. and recreational activities.

Coach and Recreational Therapist For more information, call Team for the Grand Junction VA Medical Captain Emma at 245-6175 or Coach Center Henry Bullock accompanied Bullock at 242-0731, ext. 2417. ■

Activities 7 days a week Private Rooms Available for any pay status (first come, first served) We accept Medicare A, VA Contract and most Private Insurances Check out our scores at

www.medicare.gov/NHcompare

Quality care with private comfort!

Look us up at

www.eagleridgegv.com We have changed many things over the last 5 yearsCome check us out!

We are here to help you care for your loved one.

We offer Respite Care, Rehabilitation, Long-Term Skilled Nursing, VA Contracts, Hospice and more!

Our residents are our number one priority.

We are always looking for ways to make individual residents feel at home and to help families feel welcome, giving them the peace of mind knowing their loved one is well cared for.

2425 Teller Avenue = Grand Junction = 970-243-3381

8

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

short ribs

M o n day - T h u r s day u n T i l 6 p M

wit h molasses-beer barbecue sauce

Serves: 26 2 T tri-color peppercorns or regular peppercorns 2 T minced fresh garlic (about 12 cloves) 2 t dried thyme, crushed 5 lbs beef chuck short ribs 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped 3 bay leaves 1 12-oz bottle dark beer 1 c barbecue sauce 1/4 c stone-ground mustard 1/4 c molasses 2 T balsamic vinegar or cider vinegar 2 t bottled hot pepper sauce

for c ho o se f rom

10 dinners

• 6 oz. sirloin steak • 10 oz. roadkill chopped steak • Grilled BBQ chicken • country fried chicken • chicken critters Dinner • Pulled Pork Dinner • Grilled Pork chop (single) • chicken caesar salad • Grilled chicken salad

In a small bowl, stir together the ground peppercorns, garlic, and thyme. Rub over ribs.

In an oven-safe Dutch oven or kettle, combine beer, onion, and bay leaves. Add ribs. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 1-1/2 hours or until meat is very tender.

®

Remove from oven; cool slightly. Remove ribs from cooking liquid. Store meat, covered, in the refrigerator until chilled or until the next day.

DISCARD fat. Reserve 1 c of the cooking liquid; discard remaining liquid and bay leaves. Stir barbecue sauce, mustard, molasses, balsamic vinegar, and bottled hot-pepper sauce into the reserved liquid.

Arrange ribs on the rack of a grill directly over medium coals. Grill until ribs are crisp, turning and basting frequently with molasses mixture (about 10 minutes).

Place remaining sauce in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil. Pass sauce with ribs.

2870 North Ave.

Happy Hour 4-6 7 days a Week

970-243-5700

$1.50 domestic drafts, $2.50 premium drafts

Call ahead seating

Summer

Berry Trifle

Serves: 8-10 1 package (3.4-oz) instant vanilla pudding 4 c fresh berries, washed and hulled 1/4 c plus 2 tablespoons sugar 2 t fresh lemon juice 1 c whipping cream 1 t vanilla extract 24-36 ladyfingers

To make the fillings, prepare the pudding according to the package directions and chill it.

Slice strawberries, then toss all of the berries with the lemon juice and 1/4 c of sugar. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the berries to release their juices.

In a medium mixing bowl, whip the cream, vanilla extract, and remaining 2 T of sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Sub-acute care ▪ 24-hour skilled nursing ▪ rehabilitation ▪ Long-term care ▪ Dementia care ▪ Hospice and Respite care ▪ Secured Alzheimer’s unit ▪ Palisades Living Center

151 East 3rd Street, Palisade, CO 81526 (970) 464-7500

To make the layers, set a layer of ladyfingers (7 or 8) on the bottom of a large, clear serving bowl (4 qts). Top with berries and half of the pudding.

Add another layer of ladyfingers, another third of the berries and juice, and the rest of the pudding. Add a final layer of ladyfingers and berries. Top with whipped cream and a berry garnish.

Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Ask the Old Bag Advice Column for the Over 50 Crowd

By Gayle LagmanCreswick Dear Old Bag: You know, lady, I’m so tired of this thing you stated in one of your advice answers. They were only looking for illegals that break the law? Good crap, if this guy is an illegal, why is he not an illegal? To be an illegal, you have broken the law, so why aren’t these people aiding and abetting anytime they give aid? How can they draw the line between other crimes and this? Illegal is illegal, is illegal, is illegal, period. I am sick of it and so are millions of hardworking taxpayers that see their money go to these people. If it will buy votes for politicians, we can overlook it, they are no longer illegal. Give it a rest.

Signed, LR Dear LR: First of all, the gentleman who wrote to me was asking for my advice, not my opinion regarding illegals. However, since you opened the dialogue, let’s talk. I know there are millions who agree with you. I happen to be in a quandary about the whole immigration thing. This is why: 1. If I were a resident of a country in turmoil, I think I might try to take my chances on entering a country illegally to protect my family and myself.

2. I am a spiritual person and the Higher Power that I worship teaches me that what I do to His people, I do also to Him. 3. I know for a fact that for years America turned the other way when illegals entered the country. Then, all of a sudden, they realize what they have done and want to send them all home. I believe we have played a big part in their being here and we must deal with the problem humanely.

4. I am all in favor of cracking down on border crossings.

5. I am also in favor of first going after the illegals that are felons.

6. When I think of the drugs coming in from Mexico, I am reminded that if we clamped down on the drug buyers/users in the U.S., the Mexican drug cartel market would fade away. Thanks for writing. I am glad we could have this dialogue.

O.B. Dear Old Bag: I have something to get off my chest. I know you do not believe in giving advice to your children and grandchildren, but I am having a hard time keeping my mouth shut. I love them all, but I cannot understand how my daughter could let her daughter out of the house wearing such skimpy clothing. My daughter would never have been allowed out of the house looking like that. To my way of thinking, it is like releasing a magnet to arouse the opposite sex.

Then we wonder why there are so many date rapes and other sexual crimes. Do you think it would be in order to have a heart-to-heart talk with my daughter? Signed, Worried Grandma Dear Grandma: While I agree with some of your thoughts, I cannot advise you to have that talk with your daughter. It will not do any good, except to plant in their minds that you do not approve of them. Even married and older children like to feel their parents approve of them and their methods of raising their children. I say that we really do not have much choice about letting our kids raise their kids as they see fit. They will do their own thing and should.

Love them. Pray for them. And when your granddaughter dresses decently, tell her how lovely she looks. O.B. ■

hear it through the grapevine

On the lawn Bring a chair!

Dinner Avail Wine by the bottl able e or Soft drinks & waterglass NO BEVERAGES MA Y BE BROUGHT IN

2012 summer concert series Skean Dubh

(Celtic/Folk Music) Saturday, July 7 $15 in advance/$20 at the door Benefits Community Hospital

Quemando

Saturday, July 14 $18 in advance/$20 at the door Benefits Child & Migrant Services

Astroreck

(Rock Band & Vocalists of the GJ Rockestra) Friday, July 20 $15 in advance/$20 at the door

Bring a picnic... buy a bottle of wine and relax Ticket outlets: Grande River Vineyard s Fisher’s Liquor Barn

Benefits CMU Music Program & GJ Symphony

Imagine Beatles

Saturday, July 28 $20 in advance/$25 at the door Benefits CSU Tree Fruit Program

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

Hazel Miller

Saturday, August 11 $20 in advance/$20 at the door Benefits Mesa County Partners

All concerts are located just off I-70 at exit 42 787 N. Elberta w Palisade Gates Open at 6:30 w Show Starts at 7:30 (rain or shine)

Advice & ideas 9

10 Health & wellness

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

The Healthy Geezer

By Fred Cicetti

Q. I’ve been getting heartburn a lot since I turned 60. Is more heartburn something that comes with aging?

“Where Your Quality of Life Comes First” 1708 North Avenue • Grand Junction, CO

241-0833

800-262-0833

www.grandmesamedical.com All Insurance Companies Billed

Joint Commission Accredited

Enjoy relief from arthritis, muscle aches

and pain, backaches and headaches.

All-natural, pain-relieving gel. Sore No More is now available at Horn O’ Plenty in Grand Junction and Nu U in Delta.

435-259-1611 Based in Moab, Utah

Get your FREE Sample from: www.sorenomore.com or email Karen@sorenomore.com

Put “Beacon” in comments section of order form for free shipping on any order within the continental U.S.

More than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month and more than 15 million experience it daily. Heartburn is more common among the elderly.

Having heartburn two or more times per week may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). See your doctor if you have heartburn too often. There are several ways to test for GERD. One way is to swallow a liquid barium mixture in the upper gastrointestinal series. A radiologist watches the barium as it travels down your esophagus and into the stomach.

Another test is an endoscopy, in which a small, lighted, flexible tube is inserted into the esophagus and stomach.

GERD makes stomach acid flow up into your esophagus. There is a valve at the lower end of the esophagus that is designed to keep acid in the stomach. In GERD, the valve relaxes too frequently, which allows acid to reflux, or flow backward.

A hiatal hernia may contribute to GERD. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach is above the diaphragm, with the muscle wall separating the stomach from the chest. The diaphragm helps the valve keep acid from coming up into the esophagus.

When GERD is not treated, you can suffer from severe chest pain, narrowing or obstruction of the esophagus, bleeding, or a premalignant change in the lining of the esophagus. One study showed that patients with chronic, untreated, heartburn were at substantially greater risk of developing esophageal cancer.

The following are some symptoms that might mean there has been damage to your esophagus: difficulty swallowing, a feeling that food is trapped behind the breast bone,

bleeding, black bowel movements, choking, shortness of breath, coughing, hoarseness, and weight loss.

You can control infrequent heartburn by changing your habits and using over-the-counter medicines.

Avoid heartburn-producers such as chocolate, coffee, peppermint, tomato products, alcoholic beverages, and greasy or spicy dishes. Quit smoking because tobacco inhibits saliva that helps with digestion. Tobacco may also stimulate acid production and relax the esophageal valve. Lose weight and don’t eat two hours before you go to sleep.

For infrequent episodes of heartburn, take over-the-counter antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer and Rolaids. You can also take an H2 blocker, such as Pepcid and Zantac, available over-thecounter and as a prescription.

There are also proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a group of prescription medications that prevent the release of acid in the stomach and intestines.

Doctors prescribe PPIs to treat people with heartburn, ulcers, or excess stomach acid. PPIs include Prilosec and Prevacid.

HR blockers and PPIs help reduce stomach acid and work to promote healing at prescription strength. In addition, there are agents that help clear acid from the esophagus.

GERD is a chronic disease that calls for continuous long-term therapy. To decrease the acid in your esophagus, raise the head of your bed or place a foam wedge under the mattress to elevate the head about 6-10 inches.

Avoid lying down for two hours after eating and don’t wear tight clothing.

Surgery is an option if other measures fail. A surgeon can improve the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux. ■

If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How to be a Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer. com. If you have a question, write to fred@healthygeezer.com.

July 2012

Health & wellness 11

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Stay cool this summer. Prevent heat exhaustion.

H

eat related deaths and illnesses are preventable, yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat is the number one weather-related killer in the U.S. and people over the age of 65 are more prone to heat exhaustion than younger people. The body is normally able to adequately cool itself through sweating, but when the weather is hot and humid, sweating may not be sufficient to cool the body effectively.

This can result in increased body temperature and the onset of heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.

Regardless of the weather, excessive exertion and a person’s age and physical condition can also contribute to the onset of these conditions.

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion Heat stroke is defined typically as hyperthermia exceeding 106 degrees Fahrenheit or 41 degrees Centigrade.

There are two types of heatstroke: exertional and non exertional (by which classic heat stroke as it is also known). The CDC report that while exertional affects younger people, the elderly are the most likely to suffer from nonexertional because of their limited cardiovascular reserves, preexisting illnesses and use of medications that may affect their volume status or sweating ability.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop over a number of days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids.

Elderly people, particularly those with high blood pressure, are the most likely to suffer since they are least able to control the environment they are in. Factors such as not being able to afford adequate air conditioning or not being able to move from a hot environment to a cooler one are common causes for the elderly.

“Extreme heat can be dangerous to our health and we urge our residents to take precautionary measures to prevent heat-related illness and

Af for dable

Hearing Aids

death,” Mesa County Health Department Director Jeff Kuhr said. “It is important to check on elderly friends, neighbors, and family members often and help them arrange for transportation to public places to cool down if their home is not airconditioned.”

Providing the BEST hearing help for over 21 years.

Your satisfaction is totally guaranteed.

Your Exclusive Provider of American-Made

Symptoms There are a number of symptoms to watch for. These symptoms can often be confused with other conditions.

Look for heavy sweating, tiredness, weakness, headache, nausea and fainting. In heat stroke, these symptoms can be accompanied by high temperatures, rapid pulse, and hot and dry skin instead of sweating.

241 Grand Ave. #1 Grand Junction

243-1990

Prevention To avoid the onset of heat-related conditions, drink cool (not cold) water frequently and eat cool, water-rich foods such as salads. Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your water to replace electrolytes and minerals.

You can also drink raspberry or peppermint tea to cool you down. Keep blinds and curtains closed at home to keep the sun out, shop in air-conditioned malls, try to complete all errands in one place rather than getting in and out of a hot vehicle, and wear breathable clothing of natural fibers, such as cotton and linen. Spray your body down with a cool spray bottle.

Avoid hot and heavy meals before going out in the sun.

Have a fun and safe summer by following these tips for keeping cool in the heat. ■

874-4910

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST!

THE SILENT KILLER

Actions If a person appears to be suffering from symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, take the following actions to assist their recovery.

1. Get them a cool, nonalcoholic drink.

2. Move them to a cooler environment, elevating their feet to bring blood flow back to the brain.

3. Fan them. If possible, immerse them in cool water or cover them with cool, damp sheets.

144 Eaton Ave. Delta

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) --- HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, HEART ATTACK, STROKE --- the #1 cause of Death and Disability --will kill ONE MILLION Americans in 2012... more than all Cancers, Diabetes, Respiratory Disease, and Accidents combined.

Step 1: Quality Heart Assessment with Cardio Pulse Wave Analysis (FDA class II Medical Device)

Step 2: Superior Quality Heart Health Supplements - PA9+

(1998 Nobel Prize in Medicine)

Call to receive Special Consultation Pricing $50 (reg. $79.95) or Couples Consultation 2 for $79.95

Cardio Health Insights, LLC

970-433-8085

0r email: cardiohealthinsights@hotmail.com

Knowledge Empowers Healing!

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

241-3483

GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

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

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

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

12 Health & wellness

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Vitamin B-12: If you’re older, you probably need it even more Some people with a severe deficiency get injections of vitamin B-12. t was my doctor’s nurse on the The vitamin is not a miracle perforphone. mance enhancer, not an aid to losing “Your blood tests came back,” she weight, or a fast cure for a hangover, said. “The doctor believes you need or a quick way to sober up, “as some to take 1 milligram of vitamin B-12 celebrities and Internet marketers daily.” claim,” the “Wall Street Journal” “But I already take a multivitamin story noted. that lists B-12 and says it has the daily We think of B-12 as being around requirement needed,” I responded. forever, like other vitamins. But it is “Well,” replied the nurse, “you have the newest vitamin. a deficiency and you Plants cannot store need to double that B-12 deficiency rises with B-12, so people have dose.” get their vitamin age and is much higher to When I looked B-12 from meat, liver, at my wife’s B-12 in people who don’t eat poultry, fish and bottle in our vitadairy products. mins drawer in the meat or dairy products.

Some people have kitchen, I noticed for difficulty absorbing the first time what vitamin B-12 because was written on the label. Namely that stomach acid is needed to release it B-12 is “essential for normal formafrom the food you eat. Many elderly tion of blood cells and contributes to people stop making stomach acid, the health of the nervous system.” “so B-12 deficiencies are increasingly An excellent article in “The Wall common as people age,” the story Street Journal” convinced me my doc- said. tor was right. I’m now a fan of B-12.

That’s why the Institute of MediThe article said B-12 is a “key nutrient cine recommends that seniors get needed to make red blood cells and most of their daily requirement from DNA, and keep the nervous system B-12 supplements or cereals fortified working right.” with B-12. Way down in the digesMoreover, the article pointed out tive track, B-12 has to connect with that B-12 deficiency rises with age “a protein called intrinsic factor to and is “much higher in people who be absorbed into the body. Without don’t eat meat or dairy products” and intrinsic factor, people absorb much those taking acid-blocking medicaless vitamin B-12, resulting in a conditions, which some seniors take for tion called pernicious anemia. This upset stomachs. is when red blood cells don’t develop Other symptoms of low B-12 are properly.” anemia, depression, confusion, balThe discovery that eating lots of ance problems and even dementia. liver is good for you led to the Nobel Despite my advanced age, I don’t Prize for Medicine in 1934. Three think I have dementia. But I do have doctors won it. Thank goodness balance problems and a lingering there are foods other than liver that sciatica pain. I’ve always been able are heavy with vitamin B-12. Just to keep the sciatica under control three ounces of clams, breaded and with various exercise regimens. But fried, give you about 570 percent of since I increased my vitamin B-12, the daily allowance. Some people my remaining sciatica seems to have may knock McDonald’s and other practically disappeared. I can’t say it fast food places, but a double cheesehas helped my memory. I still forget burger has about 30 percent of the some things my wife tells me. Or so daily B-12 needed. A single slice of she says. beef liver has 800 percent of the

By Tait Trussell

I

• Oxygen

• Scooters • Lift Chairs • Power Wheelchairs • Hospital Beds • Commodes • Walkers • And Much More You do have a choice

Providers for

Rocky Mountain Health Plans, Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and many others Locally Owned and Operated...

18 Years of Serving You!

2490 Patterson #5 Grand Junction, CO

244-8983

Please choose Mountain Aire Medical Supply

July 2012 daily value. A cup of yogurt has 40 percent.

The article said it’s not known whether low B-12 increases the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s, although cognitive impairment “brought on by low B-12 is sometimes mistaken for Alzheimer’s.”

An added problem: If you have a high level of folic acid, it can mask symptoms of B-12 deficiency. Many people are getting more folic acid than they think because all enriched flour is now required to contain folic acid to cut the risk of a severe malformation that occurs in developing fetuses. Some studies, the article said, suggest that “having high folic acid can make cognitive damage from low B-12 even worse.”

Dr. Irwin Rosenberg, a professor at the School of Nutrition at Tufts University, is quoted as saying, “To this day, we are concerned about the trade-off.” He was on the panel that recommended enriching flour.

In any case, if you are a vegetarian, you’d better take plenty of B-12 supplements. Don’t worry about taking too much. Rosenberg says the excess is simply excreted. ■

Symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency A deficiency of vitamin B-12 can lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. A mild deficiency may cause only mild, if any, symptoms. But as the anemia worsens it may cause symptoms such as:  weakness, tiredness or light-headedness  rapid heartbeat and breathing  pale skin  sore tongue  easy bruising or bleeding, including bleeding gums  stomach upset and weight loss  diarrhea or constipation If the deficiency is not corrected, it can damage the nerve cells. If this happens, vitamin B-12 deficiency effects may include:  tingling or numbness in fingers and toes  difficulty walking  mood changes or depression  memory loss, disorientation, and dementia Source: National Institutes of Health

Grand Mesa Chorus names Sweet Adelines of the Year

G

Health & wellness 13

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

rand Mesa Chorus of games manager and a tireSweet Adelines Internaless worker for the chorus. tional recently announced Baritone singer and reMarcia Borgen as their 2012 cent new member, Cindy Sweet Adeline of the year. von Gogh, was presented Borgen has sung tenor the Novice Member Award with the chorus for over for jumping into chorus life 10 years and has held the by memorizing music and Linda Barker (right) and learning choreography office of chorus finance manager for most of those Chorus Director Tammy well enough to sing in Schler (left). years. Her duties include the front row. creating the budget, banking, bookThe Music Award was given to the keeping, preparing dues statements entire lead section, due to their coland tax returns, and keeping the lective hard work and musical imchorus documents up to date. She is provement throughout the year. also a licensed bingo games manager Grand Mesa Chorus rehearses from and the lead section leader.

6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Assistant Lead Section Leader Linda Redlands United Methodist Church, Barker was awarded the President’s 527 Village Way in Grand Junction.

Award, presented by Team Leader Membership is open to all women Robin Cox and the Director’s Award, age 16 and older. For more informapresented by Chorus Director Tammy tion, call Shirley at 255-9419 or visit Schler. Barker is also a licensed bingo www.grandmesachorus.org. ■

CATARACT CARE

"I saw hope with the care Dr. Hoffman presented. He and his team made it very comfortable and super easy. It was about getting me back to the thing I love, my mountain bike. It's a blessing."

Dr. Hoffman can recommend the type of cataract lens implant based on each individual patient and lifestyle.

Troy Rarick

W. Jay Hoffman, MD

• No injections, sutures or eye patches • Little or no dependency on glasses • Conveniently located surgical center

Over The Edge Sports Fruita

Call (970) 256-0400 today to schedule an appointment.

Custom Cataract Surgery • Glaucoma Care and Surgery Diabetic Eye Care • Corneal Transplants • Dry Eye Treatment

Physicians' Building at St. Mary's Hospital 425 Patterson Road, Suite 405, Grand Junction, CO 81506

970.256.0400 • 800.439.3799 • www.HoffmanEyeCare.net

Lotus Light Healing presents

Reiki fur Babies Book signing & Animal Healing Presentations Get your autographed copy of “Reiki Fur Babies” Saturday, July 21st 12 pm - 3 pm Art Center 1803 North 7th Grand Junction, CO 81501 $25 pre pay or $35 at the door Food  Wine  Fun Contact: Linnie Ennis Krauland linnie@lotuslighthealing.com or call 970.250.7000 to reserve your space

Buying for CASH! Coins & Coin Collections Gold & Silver Coins Old Currency Foreign Coins & Currency Pocket Watches Sterling silver Gold & Silver Jewelry Antiques Guns and Ammunition Military Items Cowboy Spurs Native American Items Check with US before you sell!

We Have Over 37 Years Experience Buying and Selling Professionally.

Paying $14 per gram and up for Scrap Gold!

Open: Monday-Friday, 10-5

North Avenue Coins

1005 North 12th Street, Suite 211 Grand Junction, CO 81501 www.lotuslighthealing.com

970.261.8368

14

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Men with wieners and the women who love them

By Ernie Witham

A

HEAR MY

BEST

PLAY MY

BEST

HEARING REHAB CENTER

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation & hearing device demonstration!

Dr. Ryan Crawford has been practicing audiology since 2006 and has an extensive knowledge of current hearing aid technology. Sheana Emerson is a native of Grand Junction and her favorite part of her job is the people she encounters each and every day. They are both passionate about helping people hear better!

Sheana Emerson & Dr. Ryan Crawford

120 West Park Drive, Ste. 111 Grand Junction, CO 81505

970.464.3066

Visit our website at www.hearingrehabcenter.com

h, the Fourth of July. Memories of my youth. Blue skies, a beach full of bikini-clad girls, and me a carefree teenager holding a foot-long wiener. Those were the days.

Fast forward, a lot of years later...

“Your buns have mold,” my friend Jody said.

“Excuse me?” I cast a worried glance over my shoulder.

“No. These buns.” She held up a package of hot dog rolls that had expired about the same time that disco died.

“Yeah and I’m not too sure about these either.” Karen held up a very limp wiener with skin like one of those Shar Pei dogs.

It was our turn to host the annual Fourth of July barbecue, and my wife had left me in charge of the main course after I assured her that I couldn’t possibly screw-up something as simple as hot dogs.

She sighed. “Well, at least we’ve got salad.”

“Salad?” Larry said. He works construction and his lunch bucket often doubles as a wheelbarrow.

“Relax,” I said. “We guys will simply run out and find us some other hot dogs.”

“Now?” my wife asked. “It’s almost time to head to the park for the fireworks.”

“I’ll buy some ready-to-eat. I mean this is America and it’s the Fourth of July. I feel just plain unpatriotic without a wiener in my hand.”

Larry and Scott agreed.

So we grabbed a bag of potato chips, which Larry immediately blasted open with his combination pocket knife/blow torch/battery-operated nail gun, then we ran for the door.

“We’ll be back sooner than you can

say ‘pass the pickles,’” Scott said.

Jody held up an empty jar.

“Larry ate the pickles,” she yelled.

In just moments we were watching the empty rotisserie at the store go round and round.

“Another husband bought them all,” the manager said. He grabbed a napkin and dabbed at a tear in the corner of his eye. “Some of those hot dogs had been with us for years.”

Scott, the diplomatic one, consoled him, pointing out the fact that he still had half a tank of nacho cheese that certainly must have some history behind it. He was grateful and offered us a deal on Italian Style Slim Jims.

“Use a lotta mustard and who’s gonna know?”

“Karen will,” Larry said. “She’s from Jersey and her family’s ‘connected.’”

We ran for the door.

Across the street, a deli was just closing.

“Please,” I said.

I took out a small flag and the three of us began singing the national anthem.

She saluted, then said, “Sorry guys.

Sold outta hot dogs yesterday, but we got these.”

She handed us a can of miniature cocktail franks.

We thought about it briefly, but she didn’t have any two-inch buns.

“Try the health food store up the street,” she said. “It’s the only other thing open.”

They too were getting ready to close. I stuck my foot in the door just in time.

“Look,” I said, holding out my empty hands. “We’re wienerless.

Don’t you have anything...” I looked at her name tag. “...Starlight?”

She smiled. “Well we do have a few dogs left. Would you like the

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Marrakech Dogs or the Dalai Lama Dogs?”

“What’s the difference?” Larry asked.

“The Marrakech is formed from a unique blend of vegetable paste and organically grown grains,” she said.

“It’s presented on a bun made of blue corn and rice and served with a side of sun bleached sprouts.”

Scott and Larry looked at me. I was almost afraid to ask.

“The Dalai Lama? Well, we start with the freshest tofu...”

I sighed and the three of us headed for the door, years of tradition crashing down around us. “... then we sprinkle on some de-fatted feta cheese and roll it up into a lovely eggplant shell...”

I thought of my forefathers, the Declaration of Independence, and all the proud wiener-waving men that had come before us. “... finally we garnish with jicama chips and humus dip...” Starlight paused. “Where are you going?” she asked.

“Home,” I mumbled.

“Yeah, maybe there’s some potato

salad left,” Larry said.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when we walked into the backyard without any wieners. Women can be funny about things like that. But the last thing I expected was jubilation.

“I don’t understand,” I said to my wife.

She smiled. “Right after you left, the neighbors came over. They ran out of propane and wondered if they could use our grill to cook their hot dogs.”

“We saved you each one,” Karen said.

They held out three, big, fat, beautiful hot dogs slathered in mustard, relish, onions and ketchup. Shakily, I reached for mine. Off in the valley, the sky lit up with the first fireworks.

“We’d better hurry,” Jody said. “Before we miss them all.”

The women headed for the door.

Larry, Scott and I just stood there.

Lumps in our throats, warmness in our hearts, and, thankfully, great big wieners in our hands.

“What a great country,” Scott said.

Larry and I took a big bite. We couldn’t agree more. ■

Attention Former & Current

URANIUM

MILLERS, MINERS AND HAULERS You helped win the Cold War, and now America is honoring your service with FREE in-home health care from Professional Case Management.

IF YOU HAVE THIS CARD YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR FREE IN-HOME MEDICAL CARE

• S pecializing in care for former Nuclear & Uranium workers for over 10 years • National DOL/EEOICP/RECA benefit program expert • S trict hiring guidelines ensure only the best and most experienced local nurses care for you

Counting butterflies

By Karen Jones The North American Butterfly Association’s Butterfly Count is an ongoing program to census the butterflies of North America. Volunteers select a count area with a 15-mile diameter and conduct a one-day census of all butterflies sighted.

Bob Hammon has collected and photographed butterflies for over 40 years.

In preparation for the butterfly count, the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens recently held a beginner’s class on the identification of local butterflies. The reference manual used was “Peterson’s Field Guide to Western Butterflies,” which is available for purchase at the gardens’ library.

Class instructor, entomologist and agronomist at the Colorado State University Extension, Bob Hammon, has collected and photographed butterflies for over 40 years.

“Collecting butterflies is somewhat like elk hunting,” Hammon said.

“You have to be patient and able to outsmart them.”

The class covered differences between moths and butterflies, habitats, identifying marks, migration habits, and more. There are over 150 species of butterflies native to western Colorado and identifying them can be a challenge. If you’re participating in the count, remember that if you can’t identify the species, take a photo.

There will be another class in the fall, but the date has yet to be determined. Check the calendar at www.wcbotanic.org for updates. For more information about counts, visit www.naba.org. ■

Helping People Live at Home

- Contact us today to see if you qualify -

1.855.CARE.2.DAY (1.855.227.3232)

www.procasemanagement.com

15

16 Laughing matters

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Laughing Matters If cars were built like computers Submitted by Karen Jones At COMDEX, a recent computer expo, Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry stating, “If General Motors had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25 cars that go 1,000 miles to the gallon.”

In response to Bill’s comments, GM issued a press release stating, “If GM had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics: For no reason, your car would crash twice a day.

Every time they repainted the lines on the road, you would have to buy a new car.

Your car would die on the freeway for no reason. You would have to pull to the side of the road, close all the windows, shut off the car, restart it,

P R E M I E R

and reopen the windows before you could continue. For some reason, you would simply accept this.

Occasionally, executing a maneuver such as a left turn would cause your car to shut down and refuse to restart, in which case you would have to reinstall the engine.

Macintosh would make a car that was powered by the sun, was reliable, five times as fast and twice as easy to drive, but would run on only 5 percent of the roads.

The oil, water temperature, and alternator warning lights would all be replaced by a single “This car has performed an illegal operation” warning light.

The airbag system would ask, “Are you sure?” before deploying.

Occasionally, for no reason, your car would lock you out and refuse to let you in until you simultaneously lifted the door handle, turned the key, and grabbed hold of the radio antenna.

S E N I O R

Every time a new car was introduced, car buyers would have to learn how to drive all over again because none of the controls would operate in the same manner as the old car.

You’d have to press the “start” button to turn the engine off.”

Sensitive men Submitted by Rachel Bull The room was full of pregnant women and their husbands.

The instructor said, “Ladies, remember that exercise is good for you. Walking is especially beneficial. It strengthens the pelvic muscles and will make delivery that much easier. Just pace yourself, make plenty of stops and try to stay on a soft surface like grass or a path.”

She eyed the men in the room.

“Gentlemen, remember that you’re

L I V I N G

in this together. It wouldn’t hurt you to go walking with her. In fact, that shared experience would be good for you both.”

The room suddenly became quiet as the men absorbed this information. After a few moments, a man at the back of the room slowly raised his hand.

“Yes?” asked the instructor.

“I was just wondering if it would be all right if she carries a golf bag while we walk.”

I love my grandkids Submitted by Jacque Stafford I didn’t know if my granddaughter had learned her colors yet, so I decided to test her. I would point out something and ask what color it was. She would tell me and she was always correct. It was fun for me, so I continued.

At last, she headed for the door saying, “Grandma, I think you should

C O M M U N I T I E S

“I like all the activities here... especially bingo!”

- Helen Hurst / Commons of Hilltop Resident

Our residents say it best - Hilltop’s independent and assisted living communities offer the best in gracious living and personalized care Where neighbors become friends and everybody knows your name.

Now Renting Studio, 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments n Luxurious apartments featuring great views & spacious floorplans n On-site physician visits & medical transportation

NEW NS G MO COM CARE WInNtia The Commons e dem ORY (970) 243-3333 MEM ose with imer’s h For t nd Alzhe a

625 27 1/2 Road

www.TheCommonsGJ.org

n Social activities & trips n Specialized memory care n Temporary assisted n 24-hour emergency living stays response n Restaurant-style dining n Personal assistance, room service & pet walking

The Fountains (970) 243-8800 3203 N. 15th Street

www.TheFountainsGJ.org

L O C A L LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D B Y H I L LT O P - M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E F O R P E O P L E O F A L L A G E S

July 2012 try to figure out some of these colors yourself!”

Write it down Submitted by Tremaine Frigetto A couple in their 90s were both having trouble remembering things.

During a checkup, the doctor told them that they were physically okay, but they might want to start writing things down to help them remember.

Later that night, while watching TV, the old man got up from his chair and said to his wife, “Want anything while I’m in the kitchen?”

“Will you get me a bowl of ice cream?” she asked.

“Sure,” he replied.

“Don’t you think you should write it down so you can remember it?” she asked.

“No,” he said. “I can remember it.”

“Well, I’d like some strawberries on top, too,” she said. “Maybe you should write it down, so as not to forget it?”

“No, I can remember that. You want a bowl of ice cream with strawberries.”

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com “I’d also like whipped cream,” she said. “I’m certain you’ll forget that.

Write it down.”

Irritated, he responded, “I don’t need to write it down! I can remember it. Ice cream with strawberries and whipped cream. I got it. For goodness sake!”

He walks into the kitchen. Twenty minutes later, he returns from the kitchen and hands his wife a plate of bacon and eggs. She stares at the plate for a moment.

“Where’s my toast?”

How to start a fight Submitted by Jacque Stafford One year, I decided to buy my mother-in-law a cemetery plot as a Christmas gift.

The next year, I didn’t buy her a gift.

When she asked me why, I replied, “Well, you still haven’t used the gift I bought you last year.”

And that’s how the fight started.

An ageless lover Submitted by William Bird Roger, 85, married Jenny, a lovely

25 year old.

Since her new husband is so old, Jenny decides that after their wedding, she and Roger should have separate bedrooms because she is concerned that her new but aged husband may overexert himself if they spend the entire night together.

After the wedding festivities, Jenny prepares herself for bed and the expected knock on the door. Sure enough, the knock comes, the door opens, and there is Roger, ready for action. All goes well. Roger takes leave of his bride and she prepares to go to sleep.

After a few minutes, Jenny hears another knock on her bedroom door.

She opens it to see Roger again, ready for more. Somewhat surprised, Jenny consents. When they are done, Roger kisses his bride, bids her a fond good night, and leaves.

She is set to go to sleep but again hears a knock on the door. It’s Roger again, as fresh as a 25 year old, ready for more action. Once again, they make love.

But as Roger gets set to leave again,

Laughing matters 17 his young bride says to him, “I am thoroughly impressed that at your age you can perform so well and so often. I have been with guys less than a third of your age, which were only good once. You are truly a great lover, Roger.”

Somewhat embarrassed, Roger turns to Jenny and says, “You mean I’ve been here already tonight?”

Medical terminology for politics Submitted by Robert Breazeale I don’t know about you, but I can’t seem to find anyone in politics on any level to vote for. It used to be that you voted for the best person.

Now you hold your nose and vote for the one you think will do the least damage. I can’t get excited about any candidate anywhere. My doctor said that it isn’t an uncommon malady these days.

The medical term is electile dysfunction. ■ Send your funniest jokes to: beacon@pendantpublishing.com

18 Travel & Recreation

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com SAN ANTONIO HOLIDAY

CRUISING GREEK ISLANDS & TURKEY

The “American Venice

October 22 - November 3, 2012 Featuring a Seven Night Cruise: Athens, Istanbul, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete & Santorini

November 29 - December 3, 2012 4 Nights -7 Meals - Single Hotel Stay

HIGHLIGHTS… Fiesta de las Luminaris = Mission San Jose = The Alamo = Paseo del Rio Cruise = LBJ Ranch = Fredericksburg = Mayan Dude Ranch = El Mercado = San Antonio Rose Live Holiday Show

THE BEST OF EASTERN CANADA April 20 - 28, 2013

fEaTurING… Montreal = Quebec City = Ottawa = Niagara Falls = Toronto Call for information, reservations, and to receive a free newsletter.

Payment plans available...call for details Senior Group Travel SpecialTieS

Specializing in Escorted Local, National & International Senior Group Travel!

Margaret Krabbe P.O. Box 2142 • Montrose, CO 81402

Phone (970) 240-3020 Email: mkrabbe@montrose.net

2012 EXCITING ESCORTED TOURS! July – Summer Theatre in the Rockies -- 6 shows Grand Lake = Rocky Mountain National Park = Central City = Denver

=

September – Mackinac Island & The Grand Hotel 9 days in Michigan’s fall colors!

November – December – Colorado Christmas Holiday = The Broadmoor = Manitou Springs = High Tea at the Brown Palace Coming Soon – Hawaiian Cruise Holiday February 2013

Terry Eakle

Escorting Custom Tours from Grand Junction Since 1985.

607 28 1/4 Road • Grand Junction, CO 81506 • 434-6494 “My approach is simple: treat my senior clients as I would treat my own family, with the same level of education, care and service that I would provide for my own parents and grandparents.”

Reverse Mortgage Programs: • Available to Seniors 62 and older • FHA-Insured Program • No income or credit score requirements • More options – New lower cost programs

Also Providing Solutions to Local Professionals:

• Financial Planners – Creative uses for retirement and estate planning • Eldercare Advisors – Generate cash flow to fund in-home care plan • Speaking Engagements – Reverse Mortgage Educational Seminars • Real Estate – Reverse Mortgage to purchase home

Specializing in Reverse Mortgages

Judy Williamson

Reverse Mortgage Consultant NMLS 853837

Phone: (970) 623-1387

email: jwilliamson@s1l.com

Call today to receive my FREE educational packet!

July 2012

National Parks are America’s treasures 4. Cumberland Gap National Historic Park: ational Park Located at the lifetime junction of Kenpasses have long tucky, Virginia been available to and Tennessee, seniors for a mere the Cumberland $10, and free for Gap was a natuAmericans with ral passageway disabilities. Howthrough the Apever, they had to palachian MounGettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania be acquired in tains for settlers person, but now is where the famous Civil War battle was fought. moving west. they are available 5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakevia mail. Lifetime passes are available shore: The park preserves 35 miles to U.S. citizens and permanent resiof Lake Michigan’s coastline, which dents age 62 or older, or those who includes massive coastal sand dunes, have permanent disabilities.

460 foot bluffs, and several waterThe Senior and Access passes proways. Visitors can go dune climbing, vide admission to federal recreation hang gliding, and snowshoeing. sites that charge entrance or standard 6. Tall Grass Prairie National Preserve: amenity fees. Pass users also receive Located in Kansas, this park prea 50 percent discount on some ameserves and protects the unique and nity fees for activities like camping fragile ecosystem of the prairies. Enand boating. To get a lifetime pass joy hiking trails and covered wagon through the mail, submit a completed rides, visit Cottonwood Falls, and application, proof of residency and take a bus tour of local ranches. age, and $20, which covers the cost 7. Bryce Canyon National Park: Locatof the pass and a processing fee. You ed in Utah, the park features unique can print out an application at www. formations called “hoodoos,” peachystore.usgs.gov/pass/index.html. cream pinnacles giving the park a Here are some parks of interest: fairy tale look. There are guided trail 1. Women’s Rights National Hisrides and hiking, plus stargazing. toric Park: This New York site is the 8. Death Valley National Park: Despite birthplace of the women’s rights the severity of the weather, there are movement and includes the Wesleyan abundant plants and animals in this Methodist Chapel, site of the first California national park. Visit the Women’s Rights Convention in 1848.

Borax Museum, Furnace Creek Ranch The Elizabeth Cady Stanton House is and take a tour of Scotty’s Castle. nearby.

9. San Juan National Historic Site: 2. Gettysburg National Military Park: Located in Puerto Rico, the site preThis Pennsylvania site is where the serves the Spanish colonial forts of famous Civil War battle was fought in San Felipe del Morro, San Cristobal, July 1863. Take a driving tour of the El Canuelo, along with the city walls battlefield and view the monument and gate of historic San Juan. that commemorates Lincoln’s famous 10. War in the Pacific National Historic Gettysburg Address.

Park: Located in Guam, it is one of 3. Canaveral National Seashore: The several national parks in the Pacific park preserves the longest stretch of region that include underwater relics coastline on the east coast of Florida. and aging gun emplacements. On the It is great for beach combing, bird nearby island of Saipan, the American watching, canoeing and more. Visit Memorial Park also remembers other Eldora State House and Turtle Mound. sites from the War in the Pacific. ■

By Sandra Scott

N

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Travel & gaming 19

Explore the wonders of Cripple Creek with Wild West Tours

T

ake a step back in time and let They will pick up travelers in MonWild West Tours accompany you trose, Delta and Grand Junction. The on a three-day trip to experience the price is $189 per person single ocsights, sounds and history of Cripple cupancy and $149 per person double Creek, Colorado. Many tourists venoccupancy, and includes transportature to this quaint little town for its tion, lodging for two nights, breakgaming establishments, but Cripple fast and a coupon book.

Creek is made up of so much more.

Similar trips are frequently held Need a break from the slots? Take four to six times during our summer time to learn about the history that season, so to stay updated on upcomlies within each building as you stroll ing tours, sign up for our mailing list along Main Street. by calling 240-0813 ext. 105.

Cripple Creek has many museums Trips planned for the remainder of to explore and even a short train ride the season will most likely be to Sky for those looking for a mild advenUte Casino in Ignacio, Colorado and ture. Some travelers might be so Black Hawk. lucky as to get a glimpse of the donThe journey is what you make of it, key herd that roams Cripple Creek. so whether you’re only coming along Excitement builds among the locals, for the ride, or wish to try your hand as three of the donkeys are pregnant at lady luck, there is something for and are due this summer. you at Cripple Creek.

When looking for a taste of the For more information, see our ad local fare, choices abound with on this page. Call us today to reserve everything from ice-cold beer and your seat at 240-0813 ext. 105. ■ pizza to fine dining. Try a little bit of everything over the course of our getaway.

For a taste of the nightlife, Wild West Tours will also be offering tickets to “My Fair Lady,” which will be playing at the Butte Theater. This historical venue boasts the vibrant days of theater and opera, bringing history to life. The theater is a great way to sit back, relax and enjoy the incredible talent that thrives in Cripple Creek.

Join Wild West Tours on a trip to Double Eagle Hotel & Casino in Cripple Creek August 1-3.

A leisurely excursion to Double Eagle Hotel & Casino in Cripple Creek is the upcoming destination of Wild West Tours’ next trip August 1-3.

Double Eagle Hotel & Casino Cripple Creek, Colorado

Wednesday, August 1 - Friday, August 3 $189 per person single occupancy -- $ 149 per person double occupancy Price includes: Transportation, 2 Nights Lodging, Breakfast, & Coupon Book!

Enjoy the musical “My Fair Lady” for an additional $15

For more information: Call 970-240-0813 or Email: amy@tellurideexpress.com

20 Local lore

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Ahh, SuMMER . . .

When the mercury runs high, come check out our

special exhibit!

Summer Hours: 9 am - 5 pm 7 days a week 550 Jurassic Ct., Fruita 970.858.7282

Thanks to our sponsors for your support!

Wonderworks Exhibit Company

Trips, Dinosaur Digs, Kid's Camps and MORE! 970.242.0971 • www.museumofwesternco.org

COLORADO

FRI: All-day guided motorcoach tour

to lavender farms in western Colorado; activities, grower talks, lunch. End at Grande River Vineyards - wine & hors d’oeuvres. Hours 8a-5p. ($55 TICKET)

SAT: Colorado Lavender Festival in Palisade Memorial Park Enjoy an

intriguing array of artisan products, booths, food, cooking demos, crafts, music. Hours 9a-5p (FREE). Workshops: 4 informative sessions. ($10 TICKET EA/ $30 ALL 4 SESSIONS)

SUN: Self-guided agri-tours & activities - 11 locations! Farms,

orchards, retailers, wineries; meet growers, crafts, food, music, tours. Maps at Sat. Festival.

Hours vary. (FREE)

July 6 ~ 8 • 2012

PALISADE • COLORADO

coloradolavenderfestival.com

July 2012

The joys of summer past

By Sandi Cameron

C

hildren are our heritage and make each day meaningful for so many of us. The sounds of a baby’s laughter are contagious and can bring a smile even to the most stoic among us.

The touch of a child’s hand can bring more comfort than the hugs of one hundred contemporaries. Children have the gift. The twinkle in the eye, the curling lips, the tapping toes, the robust glee. Every generation of child has been the recipient of the gift, and every generation of adult has attempted to prolong his or her own most cherished childhood memories by giving children opportunities for healthy entertainment and robust fun. Seeing the joy in the eyes of each child is worth a hundred “thank yous.”

Reflecting on childhood pleasures in western Colorado, the list is long.

A favorite summer activity possibly since our earliest ancestors is swimming and water play. The Colorado River has been and continues to be a source of entertainment for children of all ages.

“I used to ride horses, bike, climb Mt. Garfield and swim in the canals,” Grand Junction native Jet Capps said.

“It was a great place to grow up and play in the summer.”

One can visit the spur of Corn Lake, the Colorado River, and the River Front Trail on any given summer day to see families splashing in the shallower waters with or without an air-filled raft or tube.

William J. Moyer, one of the Grand Valley’s early philanthropists and owner of The Fair Store, realized the need for a safe swimming environment when one of his employee’s sons drowned while swimming in the formerly named Grand River.

Because of this tragedy and the need presented, Moyer built the swimming pool at Lincoln Park and donated it

to the City of Grand Junction with a few stipulations. Children were to have two free days weekly, so that all children, no matter their family’s finances, would have access to the pool. On June 8, 1922, Moyer’s Natatorium was dedicated with the Governor of the State officiating. Although the original pool was dismantled in 1973, the Lincoln Park-Moyer pool has continued the legacy of the man who truly cared about the safety and pleasure of the community’s children.

“My childhood memories of summertime are memorable,” Grand Junction resident Cindy Fry said. “I remember spending time on Main Street watching the parades and occasionally seeing a movie at Cooper or Mesa Theaters. We’d also go swimming in the Moyer Pool, but my most vivid memory was the rodeo at Lincoln Park.”

Fry said that every year, the Colorado Stampede would come to Grand Junction and her entire family would go to see the cows and horses stampeded across Stocker Stadium.

“We thought it was the coolest thing,” Fry said.

Even school was a source of entertainment for the young. The first school in Grand Junction was established in 1882, with Nanny Blain as the first teacher. Lowell School was built at Fifth Street and Rood Avenue and like all later schools, provided a place for cooperative fun.

Some games were sanctioned by the schools and some were not.

Boys loved the game of marbles and took much pride in their marble collections. Playing dice is at least 3,000 years old, so for centuries, school grounds have perpetuated this favored game, although any sort of gambling was generally against school rules.

Girls loved jacks, jump rope, and hopscotch, a favorite recess game

July 2012 that could quickly be readied with a chunk of chalk. Physical games such as leapfrog; blind man’s bluff; red light/green light; and duck, duck, goose were played at recess, allowing for much needed movement after hours of sitting. Balls were versatile and could be used for a variety of games, including basketball, prison dodge ball or foursquare. Playground equipment, such as swings, merry-gorounds and teeter-totters, provided delightful fun.

Homemade toys using discarded items were affordable for all. Both wooden and iron hoops were rolled along with either sticks or hooks to increase their momentum while children ran alongside them. Homemade stilts required some agility and sense of balance to mas-

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com ter, but could provide many minutes of entertainment for the performer and his mesmerized audience. Those who were somewhat accomplished might even show their skills in the

Local lore 21

occasional local parades.

Read the rest of this story next month in August’s BEACON. ■ LEFT: Leap frog was often played at recess, 1891.

Photo courtesy of the Library of the Congress.

ABOVE: Boys loved the game of marbles, 1891.

Photo courtesy of the Library of the Congress.

LEFT: Hoop and stick toy.

LEFT: Philanthropist William J. Moyer.

Photo courtesy of the Museum of Western Colorado.

Moyer Natatorium opening day ceremony, 1922.

Photo courtesy of the Museum of Western Colorado.

22 Recreation

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

89.5 FM News Listen to in-depth Colorado coverage and the best of NPR and the BBC.

103.3 Classical Music FM

Bringing You Colorado & the World.

Connect with Colorado’s classical music community and experience memorable performances of classical greats.

Fun after 50

G

et your friends together and sign up for one or more of these fantastic day trips offered by the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department. To register for these trips, call 254-3866 or visit www.gjcity.org.

Fruita Senior Center activities

July 5

Freedom Dance

Independence Day Party

Online at www.cpr.org

Celebrate our country’s independence from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave. Cost is $3.

July 7

Lavender Festival

Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Avenue - 970 243-7408

The Senior Recreation Center offers activities for seniors age 50 and older.

The center is open Monday - Saturday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Annual membership is $5.00.

S e n i o r R e c re a ti o n C e n te r M o n t h ly C a le n d a r

of

Ev e n ts

Monday

9:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

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

Tuesday

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Cribbage & Pool Tourney Gray Gourmet Bingo

Wednesday

9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

Ladies Pool, Card Social Jack & Jill Pool Tourney Free Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd Wed) Gray Gourmet Pinochle

Thursday

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

8:00 p.m.

Canasta Cleaning Crew (Last Thursday) Bunco (3rd Thursday) Band (1st Thursday) Pokeno Dance

Friday

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

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

Saturday

8:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

Bridge Class Bridge Bingo

Sunday

1:00 p.m.

Dance (1st & 3rd Sunday)

July 2012

Attend the second annual Lavender Festival in Palisade. Enjoy the many creations, edibles and crafts made with lavender. Visit a lavender farm where you can pick a bundle for $5.

Finish the day with a wine tasting and a tour of Carlson Vineyards.

Lunch is on your own. Meet at Lincoln Park Barn at 10 a.m. Cost is $20.

July 10

Colorado National Monument Bus Tour

To register for any of the following trips, call the Fruita Community Center (FCC) at 858-0360 or visit www.fruita.org.

July 8

Come to the FCC for an afternoon of music, dancing and fun from 2 p.m.5 p.m. Pay at the door. Cost is $3.

July 11

City of Fruita Task Force Meeting The City of Fruita Task Force meets at 1 p.m. in the Senior Room at the FCC. July 14

Adventure hike Meet other local hiking enthusiasts that venture onto trails that very few have traveled. Bring good hiking shoes, water and a sack lunch. We will meet at the FCC at 7 a.m. and carpool. Cost is $5.

July 15

“Cats” at the Avalon

Enjoy incredible scenery and learn hidden secrets on a ranger guided bus tour of the Monument’s 23-mile historic Rim Rock Drive. Bus departs from the Lincoln Park Barn at 8 a.m.

Bring a sack lunch and water. Register by July 6. Cost is $10.

There’s no pussy footing around when it comes to the longest running musical on Broadway. Join us for a matinee and dinner in downtown Grand Junction. Meet at the FCC at 1 p.m. Trip includes transportation and admittance. Dinner is on your own. Cost is $35.

July 12

July 23

Deuces Wild Have an evening of Las Vegas style fun starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave. Enjoy a delicious dinner, then play poker, blackjack, Texas hold ’em, or spin the wheel for your chance to win fabulous prizes. Cost is $5.

August 7

Redstone Castle tour Explore the National Historic District of Redstone, Colorado. Step back in time with a costumed docent-led tour of Redstone Castle. Visit the Coke Ovens and the Redstone Art Center Gallery. A picnic lunch will be provided.

Pick up will be at the Lincoln Park Barn at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $45. Register

by July 24.

Mystery Night Dress the part, collect the clues and solve the mystery. Event starts at 5:30 p.m. Snacks provided. Register

by July 16. Cost is $10.

July 28

Ouray Day Trip Take a walking tour of 19th century Victorian homes and buildings in downtown Ouray. Afterwards, visit Ouray’s Box Canyon Waterfall and Park. Bring good walking shoes. Meet at the FCC at 8 a.m. Cost is $40.

Free Blood Pressure Clinic On the last Friday of each month, the FCC provides a free walk-in blood pressure clinic in the dining room from 11 a.m. to noon. ■

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

23

Finally, a tax break for seniors

By Cloie Sandlin

A

t a recent town hall meeting hosted by Mesa County Assessor Barbara Brewer and staff, many Colorado seniors found out they may be eligible for a break on their property taxes.

An estimated 125 people attended the meeting at the old Mesa County Courthouse to find out more about the Senior Homestead Exemption and to get their questions answered by Brewer, her knowledgeable staff, and legislators Ray Scott of House District 55 and Jared Wright, a candidate for House District 54.

“There was a fantastic turnout,” Wright said. “People were spilling out both doors.”

The exemption reduces the property tax on a senior’s primary residence. It exempts 50 percent of the first $200,000 in actual value from property tax. If their primary residence has an actual value of $200,000 or greater, the first

$100,000 will be exempt consecutive years prior to that from taxation. If the actual date and they and/or their value of the primary resispouse must be the property dence is less than $200,000, owner of record. the first 50 percent of the “I’m glad to know that I’m actual value will be exempt. eligible, so I wouldn’t have to Colorado voters approved think about it all year long,” the amendment in 2000, with Beryl Oliver, 90, said. the condition that it can be The exemption is not based arbitrarily suspended any on income. If you have previyear by the state Legislature, ously applied and been apbased on the current state of proved, you don’t need to apply the budget. Since its approval again, provided that you are in An estimated 125 seniors attended a recent town hall meeting to by voters, the exemption has the same home and there is no find out more about the Senior Homestead Exemption. only been authorized four change in your status. times, having last been approved “Your county assessor’s office is law enforcement. Therefore, the State in 2008. a valuable resource,” Wright said. of Colorado is responsible for reimGov. John Hickenlooper first probursing the local governments for the “Clearly, they’re being proactive and posed that the exemption again be loss in revenue due to the exemption. as a future legislator, it’s good to suspended this year, but the Legisla“Seniors are a great asset to our know the information is getting ture’s Joint Budget Committee found community,” Brewer said. “We had out there.” revenues to be sufficient enough to a good number of people today that Applications for the exemption can allocate $98 million towards the exwere already preapproved.” be obtained and submitted to your emption for the 2012 tax year, which To qualify, a senior must be at least county’s assessor’s office by July 16. starts in July.

65 years old as of January 1, 2012.

Applicants will receive a letter in Property taxes fund local governThey also must have resided in their August stating whether or not they ment services such as schools and home as a primary residence for 10 qualify for the exemption. ■

WHERE THE NEWS COMES FIRST

TV to talk about.

FOR ADVERTISING RATES

SPENCER WASHBURN

WEEKDAYS at 5:00pm . 6:00pm . 10:00pm

MEGAN TERLECKY

CALL (970) 245-8880

24 Gardening

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Green Center

Garden Décor

Annuals • Container Gardens • Herbs • Vegetable Plants • Pansies Tropical Foliage • Orchids •Cactus • Carnivorous Plants • Tropicals Nursery • Trees & Shrubs • Perennials (small to large)

B

• Pottery from around the world • Fountains • Statuary • Planters • Patio Décor & Furniture • Tools & Signs

eautiful landscapes start

plan * * with a

Let’s get started on yours...

So you can enjoy it this summer!

24 YEARS

SALESuPARTSuSERVICE SERVICING MOST MAKES & MODELS

RVIA Certified Master Technicians

(970)

245-1305

www.recvehicle.com

FREE

Yard Debris Drop-off

Garden Scentsations Kathy Kimbrough Garden Coach & Designer Lavender Farm Consultant Advanced Master Gardener

(970) 255-1312 • jkknkak@bresnan.net www.gardenscentsations.blogspot.com

How to water your lawn, now The Garden Guru

By Curtis Swift, CSU Area Extension Agent Horticulture

R 970-249-6109 16612 S. Townsend Ave. Montrose, Colorado www.camelotgardens.com

Tuesday - Saturday 8am-4:30pm For more information call

263-9319

Organic Materials Composting Facility 3071 U.S. Highway 50 www.mesacounty.us/swm

July 2012

estricting people to specific days to water their fields, lawns and gardens, often has the opposite effect of saving water. The Redlands and Orchard Mesa Water Districts have implemented water restrictions and other raw water providers in western Colorado will also restrict water use as the season progresses.

I already see people on water restrictions water their lawn or fields hours longer than they normally would. Just because you have water every two or three days does not mean you need to water every bit of your landscape on all of those days. If your lawn was being watered every three days and you have water every three days, continue to water as in the past, but avoid the tendency to water for a longer period of time. If you have water every other day, it would be best to switch the lawn to every fourth day instead of watering every other day.

It’s okay if your lawn begins to go dormant (turns blue, wilts, or crunches when you walk on it). It will turn brown, but will not die.

A healthy lawn should be able to survive a drought of at least two or three months. Trying to bring the lawn back from these dry conditions with water does more harm than good. When you apply water during a drought, the grass uses up energy stored in the roots and crown. As this depletion of energy continues, the plant is less able to recover.

When water restrictions are lifted, get the lawn back on the same schedule it was before the restrictions went into effect. Don’t try to force your lawn back into growth by watering more than previously. You may increase disease problems and cause root death.

Your neighbors might be aghast that you let your lawn go dormant, but you will have a healthy lawn

later. Some grasses can go without water for five or six months during the heat of the season.

Some people say your lawn can get by with 45 minutes of water every three days. If you have the common pop-up spray nozzles, that might be true. Most of these nozzles apply between 1.6 and 3 three inches of water per hour. Currently, our lawns are using slightly over 0.30 inches of water per day. Thus, every three days, a lawn requires about an inch of water. If your sprinklers apply 1.6 inches of water per day, running your sprinklers for 45 minutes every three days should be adequate.

When you see mist or a rainbow forming due to your sprinklers, the pressure is too high. You probably have spray type sprinklers, which are typically only 55 percent efficient, meaning if you applied one gallon of water per minute through your sprinklers, only 55 percent of that will be hitting the ground and 45 percent will be lost to the air. If your sprinklers are creating mist, you are losing at least 70 percent of the water going through the nozzle. In most cases, all you have to do is install and calibrate a pressure regulator on the valve to fix it.

I’m especially fond of MP-Rotator nozzles because they apply water at a rate slow enough that the water soaks into the soil instead of running off the lawn and down the gutter. These nozzles apply water at the rate of about 0.4 inches per hour. If you have either MP-Rotators or impact sprinklers, plan on watering for a little over two hours to provide adequate water for three hot days. Make sure you run the sprinklers long enough to put on an inch of water. If you aren’t sure how much water your sprinklers are applying, place mugs or other straight-sided containers around the yard and turn on your sprinklers. When you have an inch of water in these containers you will have hit the magic number of minutes (or hours) necessary to adequately water your lawn. ■

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

25

RETIREMENT LIVING

Editor’s note: Did you know that the State Demographer’s Office projects that approximately one out of every 8,000 people in Colorado today will live to be 100 years old? There are approximately 650 centenarians in Colorado and in 2020, there will be about 1,100 Coloradans 100 years or older. Over the next couple of months, the BEACON will feature interviews of area centenarians. These centenarians have their own secrets and advice to a long and happy life.

YOUR WAY

What’s the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To join a church and follow the guiding principles.

By Marsha Kearns

What do you think is the secret to a long life?

I am surprised I lived this long. Nobody else in my family made it past their 90s. I don’t have a clue why, except I was always working and just didn’t get the time to die.

What advice would you give others?

To join a good church and be a good member.

name

What’s good about living so long?

The going along and getting older was fine.

Grace Draper

What’s not so good about living so long?

It’s not very exciting anymore. There’s no one your age to go around with.

January 19, 1911

age

101

date of birth residence :

The Fountains at Hilltop

What do you love about your life now?

It’s easy and it’s perfectly okay. I have better health now than I have had at other times of my life.

What do you miss the most?

I miss all the activity. I was always in busy-mode all my life and now, it seems a little dull. But there are activities here [at the Fountains], which I do sometimes.

What invention or change has affected your life the most?

I think the medical services available now have made a huge difference. Of course, when cars came along, they gave us more freedom and ability to do many more things in life.

What moment in your life gave you the greatest happiness?

I was thrilled at the arrival of my first child. I had been teaching and always liked kids, and I loved having my own. I raised two boys.

What do you wish you had done differently?

I should have married a rich man. I got off to a bad start that way.

What do you think is your greatest achievement? What are you most proud of?

Raising my two fine fellows.

What do you still really want to do?

I’d like to have a car and driver, and visit Pennsylvania, where my parents and family lived. I went there when I was very little and I don’t remember it very well. I’m sure it’s different now, but it would be nice to see it.

What do you wish when you blow out the candles on your birthday cake?

I wish for continued good health.

THE INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY THAT FITS YOUR LIFESTYLE. INDEPENDENT LIVING Our single level patio

homes offer privacy and luxury. The open living plans feature two bedrooms, two baths, vaulted ceilings, contemporary kitchens, gas fireplace, covered patio and one car garage.

O MONNE FRE TH (See E RE lea N for d sing age T etai ls)

nt

CAREFREE LIFESTYLE Enjoy the freedom of maintenance-free

living with paid utilities, weekly housekeeping, snow removal, lawn maintenance and a customized meal plan at our Commons or Fountains dining rooms.

PEACE OF MIND Each residence includes a 24-hour emergency response system. Plus we offer a choice of flexible care options and services to meet your changing needs.

(970) 683-4737

TheCottagesGJ.org

Visit today for a tour and free lunch

L O C A L LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D B Y H I L LT O P - M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E F O R P E O P L E O F A L L A G E S

26

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Stay safe and independent in your own home

Only in America: Immigrant by birth. American by heart.

By Barbara Ward

M

Hilltop - the name you trust for comprehensive and compassionate in-home care

MEDICAL AND NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE AVAILABLE

• All caregivers are screened and insured • Post-hospitalization and surgery care • IV therapy, medication management or injections • Personal care and companionship services • Downsizing and relocation assistance • Handyman services • Housekeeping and seasonal deep cleaning • Home electronics and computer assistance

(970) 208-1345

www.HilltopHomeCareGJ.org L O C A L L Y

O W N E D

A N D

O P E R A T E D

B Y

H I L L T O P

July 2012

know each other, they learned that they had left Germany the same year, only months apart. Guenther loved the U.S. and was determined to stay.

He also had a desire to chase the American Dream.

He and Heidi married in 1955. In 1970, they purchased a large home, turning it into a boarding house for Polish immigrants and began to get

ontrose resident Heidi GebhardSeelhoff is a witness to dreams coming true. When she came from Germany to America 58 years ago, she was determined to further her education, learn to speak fluent English, and follow the American Dream.

Heidi dreamed of a better life when her hometown of Amberg, Germany was bombed during World War II. In 1951, she and a friend left for Switzerland, where they heard about maid and au pair jobs in America.

At the age of 21, they found people that would sponsor their voyage to America Seelhoff holds a postcard of the SS America and the SS United States passing and in each other on the Hudson River in New York.

June of involved in American enterprise and 1954, they left by boat, landing in lifestyle. The house burned down, New York. Their final destination but that did not stop them. was Glencoe, Illinois.

While the Seelhoffs and their five “I never would have believed in children were on vacation, they fell my young life that I would be able to in love with the beauty of Colorado come to the U.S.,” Heidi said. “I loved and moved to Montrose. Their first the colors of the SS United States. It thought was to run a German reswas painted the colors of the U.S.A. taurant in Telluride, but decided So was my ticket.” it wasn’t practical. Two of their In Glencoe, she found that many daughters, who had become nurses, Americans were friendly, generous convinced them to build a place for and accepting. She learned of Sunday retired seniors to live. afternoon ballroom dances hosted by Having moved to the U.S. so young, a local European club. Heidi loved to Heidi was unable to care for her pardance, but women could not attend ents as they aged. Building a retirethe dances unless escorted by a male. ment residence filled that void. The Luckily, a group of her friends knew Seelhoffs bought property on Sunnyone man that agreed to escort them. side Road in Montrose and built the At the dance, Guenther Seelhoff, Spring Creek Chalet in 1987. the drummer of the band performFor Heidi, caring for people has ing that day, approached Heidi and become more than just a business. introduced himself. As they got to

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

tribution to the government. Heidi In 1999, the family expanded her compassionate care through a second raised angora rabbits. The sheared home—Heidi’s Chateau. rabbit wool was given to the authoriAfter Guenther’s death in 2001, ties to be used to line the flight jackHeidi decided that managing the two ets of pilots. Children were taught to facilities was too much. She looked never make negative comments about for someone locally who would the government, never ask questions continue her tradition of loving care. and to trust no one. People lived She found what she was looking for in constant fear of being reported. in Frank Martinez, who is now the Among many families, there was a owner of Heidi’s Chateau. rule of never discussing anything Heidi has given her heart to her about the government or Hitler. work throughout the years and has Heidi recalled driving past a large been said by friends and employees camp, asking what it was and why to be the very all the soldiers heart of the had guns with business. bayonets.

“You have to She said believe you can the reply was succeed, make always, “Don’t an unconditionask. It is war al commitment, important.” be willing to This was the work hard, and only safe answer open your heart for any question. if you want sucGerman famicess,” Heidi said. lies did what Heidi has spowas necessary ken to students in classrooms to protect their about her expefamilies. riences during Seelhoff gives her heart to her work at Spring Creek “Freedom World War II. Chalet. of speech was She is a strong believer of informing killed,” she said. “People never heard children about war and how imporon the radio or read in the papers tant it is to have a deep respect for anything that was not propaganda. It the freedoms that they enjoy. was a total dictatorship. By the time “People do not understand that they realized what was going on, no the freedom of opportunity is not a one was brave enough to speak out gift,” Heidi said. “It is a privilege. Our and it was too late to stop it. The greatest freedom is the gift of endless time to speak out is in the beginning, opportunities for anyone who is willwhen you sense something is not ing to work.” right.”

One of her most vivid memories of Heidi said she loves this country as the war is of the air raids and bomb much as if it was her homeland. She shelters. There were shelters evsaid her heart stops when she hears erywhere and almost no food availsomeone criticize a U.S. president, able. In order to feed the family, her but she reminds herself that she now mother would often make a “stew” lives in a country where there is freeout of bones, the innards of animals, dom of speech. When she obtained and whatever they could find. As a her citizenship in 1970, she felt a child, she would often walk the railsense of relief and pride. road track ties, looking to gather bits Heidi proudly celebrates all U.S. of coal left behind from the trains to patriotic holidays and reveres our help heat the house. flag. She plans to host a Fourth of Children were mandated to attend Saturday afternoon propaganda mov- July party at the Spring Creek Chalet for family and residents. ■ ies and to make some type of con-

Senior Daybreak changed both our lives A safe and stimulating day care program for seniors... a break for the caregiver. n Socialization and stimulation for seniors who are frail or affected by Alzheimers and dementia n Activities customized to individual interests and abilities n Nutritious snacks and noon meal

(970) 241-7798

www.seniordaybreak.org

L O C A L LY

O W N E D

A N D

O P E R A T E D

B Y

H I L LT O P

27

28

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

High Desert Opera presents “The Elixir of Love”

7:00 p.m.

By Brenda Evers

F July 20 & 28

Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction, CO

& July 21 GJ Tickets available

Delta Performing Arts Center

(Delta tickets at local outlets only)

Online:

highdesertopera.org

By calling:

970-523-9605 Visit

highdesertopera.org

for complete details

2012

Presenting the 53rd Season of Entertainment

September 7, 2012 PAINT YOUR WAGON by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe.

This “gold-bustin’” musical, tells a boom-and-bust story of the 1880s California Gold Rush. Prospector Ben Rumson discovers gold and hundreds of prospectors rush to Rumson Creek, a boom town with a serious shortage of women. Saloon girls arrive, love stories develop and prosperity reigns. When the gold runs out, the miners move on, typifying American hopes of finding wealth and happiness through the unending readiness to paint your wagon and head over the horizon. Directed by Jane Pierrepont • Assistant Director Nick Hoppner November 9, 2012 SORRY! WRONG CHIMNEY! by Jack Sharkey and Leo W. Sears David Tuttle is moonlighting as a department store Santa so that he can buy his wife an expensive gift for Christmas. She discovers he is not working late at the office and the craziness begins! Neighbors barging in, slightly off balanced Santa burglar, his gum chewing, gun toting fiancée and a confused policeman, add to the merriment of this delightful comic farce. A rollicking tale that is hilarious Christmas or anytime entertainment. Directed by Dick Shannon • Assistant Director Jim Hougnon January 11, 2013 WAIT UNTIL DARK by Frederick Knott Suzy, a not so typical housewife, becomes the target of three con men searching for something very valuable hidden in a doll. A doll her husband unwittingly brought from Canada that has mysteriously gone missing. With astute cleverness, Suzy is determined to defeat her assailants in this edge-of-your-seat thriller. The New York Post calls it “A first rate shocker, the suspenseful drama audiences have long awaited eagerly.”

Directed by John Snyder • Assistant Director Dave Olson.

March 8, 2013 BUS STOP by William Inge

Set in 1955, Bus Stop takes place in a rural Kansas diner where a handful of passengers are stranded overnight. A headstrong, naive cowboy has kidnapped a young and beautiful lounge singer whom he is determined to marry. She tries to escape being hauled all the way to Montana by enlisting the aid of the local Sheriff and diner owner. Throughout the long and sleepless night the cowboy learns a few important lessons about life from the other misfits taking shelter from the storm. Directed by Sandy Lundberg

May 10, 2013

1776 Music and Lyrics by Sherman Edwards & Book by Peter Stone

Tony Award Winning “1776” presents a rollicking, yet spellbinding, story of how America’s Continental Congress chose independence against all odds. The tenacious John Adams and charming Benjamin Franklin coerce a reluctant Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence as they try to persuade the American colonies to support the resolution. Even as depressing messages sent by George Washington describe military disasters, wealthy landowners and slaveholders conspire to block independence. American liberty hangs by a thread.

Directed by Ginny Spaven • Assistant Director Kathy Murdoch

420 South 12th Street, Montrose

• 970-249-7838 • www.magiccircleplayers.com

or their summer performance, High Desert Opera has adapted Gaetano Donizetti’s Italian opera “The Elixir of Love” by changing the setting from a medieval Italian village to the 1890s Wild West town of Grand Junction. The audience can expect humorous references to local characters, political figures and events of the 19th century Western Slope, as well as period costumes in this American opera.

The story opens as Dr. Carlo Ratta, a traveling charlatan, turns a ranch topsy-turvy with promises about his magical elixir. The “medicine man” convinces Johnny Reno, a ranch hand, to purchase a love potion to win the heart of the wealthy landowner, Sue Ellen. One wacky situation leads to another, culminating in a joyous choral finale.

Twenty-two local singers in the chorus, coming from across the Grand Valley, will add their singing talents to the principal operatic vocalists with experience and worldrenowned reputations. “‘The Elixir of Love’ is unique to this valley because of our choice of setting...this valley,” HDO Marketing Director Marnie Benson said. “But more than that, our chorus is made up of your friends and neighbors.

All local talent.”

Founded in 2002, HDO became a nonprofit organization in 2005 Res uRce

DirectOry

“It’s the yellow pages for

2O12

”

Western Slope seniors.

Now on the Web at m www.BeaconSeniorNews.co PMS 660

PMS 123

C 90 M 50 Y 0 K 0

C 0 M 25 Y 100 K 0

with the goal to bring high quality operas and Broadway musicals to the Western Slope. HDO performs one opera and one Broadway production, with two seasonal concerts each year.

HDO has blended local and guest talents in three musicals at New Year’s Eve presentations: “Man of La Mancha,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Camelot,” and seven full operas in the summer: “The Tales of Hoffman,” “Pagliacci,” “Tosca,” “The Sorcerer,” “The Barber of Seville,” “The Mikado,” and “Die Fledermaus,” a collaboration with the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra.

“Grand Junction is so unique,” Benson said. “We have an opera and symphony. It behooves people to know and support both.”

To see “The Elixir of Love,” choose from three performances. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, July 20 and Saturday, July 28 at the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction. There will also be one performance at the Delta Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 21, as part of the Deltarado Days celebration.

“This opportunity to see a comic opera can really broaden one’s mind,” Benson said. “It did mine.”

Ticket prices range from $10 to $39. For Grand Junction tickets, call HDO at 523-9605, visit Roper Music, or www.highdesertopera.org. Delta performance tickets are available at Delta City Market or at the door. ■

“It’s our yellow pages for seniors” Available Free around town!

July 2012

Questers: A peach of an idea to preserve history tealeaf ironstones, old milk glasses, antique dolls, and Heisey Glass,� embers of the Grand Mesa Ward said.

Peaches, the local chapter of The club has also studied Roseville Questers International, are on a quest pottery, graniteware and Blue Wilto discover, preserve and restore anlow china. They have visited many tiques and historic landmarks. historic places in Colorado, including Founded in 1944, Questers Interthe pioneer town in Cedaredge, the national is a nonprofit organization Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs, with 15,000 members in local chapRedstone Castle in Redstone, and the ters throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Beaumont Hotel in Ouray.

Their motto is “It’s fun to search and Member Allie Thompson-Stewart a joy to find.� is excited about the Grand Mesa “[The club’s purpose] is to further Peaches’ upcoming trips to Ridgway knowledge, appreciation and coland Telluride. lection of antiques, and to encour“We are going to the Ridgway Railage preservation and restoration of road Museum, historic landthen we will go marks,� Presito the Telluride dent Harriet Old Miner’s MuWolford-Etter seum,� Thompsaid. son-Stewart Treasurer said. “We want Goldie Ward to learn everywas a member thing we can of the Questers about Telluride chapter in and the 19th Boulder for century (From left) Grand Mesa Peaches Vice President many years.

She moved to Cherie Pedersen, Treasurer Goldie Ward, Secretary miners.�

Questers Joyce Raney and President Harriet Wolford-Etter in Grand Juncalso work to front of Long Cabin. tion in 2004, preserve and and found no restore local projects.

The Grand comparable club. In March of 2005, Mesa Peaches recently donated she set out to find other people $4,000 to Mesa County to restore the interested in collecting and preserving pieces of history. The Grand Mesa exterior logs of Long Cabin at Long Family Memorial Park. Funds came Peaches is the only Questers chapter from a grant from the Colorado State on the Western Slope. “In Colorado there are 30 chapters, Questers and the local chapter.

Many Grand Mesa Peaches membut most of them are on the Front bers are seniors. They take turns Range,� Ward said. “Each month, we meeting at members’ homes at have one program in a member’s 9:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday home. We talk about an antique we of the month. collect or are interested in and go on “We are all retired, but we are not field trips and have guest speakers.� limited to that,� Wolford-Etter said.

The Grand Mesa Peaches have “We’d like to get some new blood, hosted guest speakers like Carina Sander, who talked about the restora- but young people are not joining.�

For more information about the tion and conservation of artwork and Grand Mesa Peaches or to find out Frank Daniels, a retired resident of the location of the next meeting, call Grand Junction, who presented his Wolford-Etter at 242-3437 or Ward at glass paperweights.

241-0448. ■“We have had presentations on

By Sandy Barney

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

29

Attention

BEACON Advertisers

M

re L ong-Term Ca

1.

as Pirate Day Family moments such Grand Valley at Eagle Ridge of the more than impact quality of life a staff like this anything else. With care may to care for you, long-term all. after bad so not seem

Beacon’s Produced by the Advertising Team

rm Care Housing & Long-Te Your Guide to Senior

at Now on the Web s.com www.BeaconSeniorNew

The “continuum-of-care� that one goes through as they age can be a confusing and expensive process.

Beacon readers know that first hand. as a sponsor of this important publication, you can show our readers how you can best help them and their loved ones navigate the aging process. after all, “getting old isn’t for sissies.�

Advertising Deadline: July 20, 2012 Publication Date: July 30, 2012

2.

In a recent study of today’s active, affluent and aging adults, a healthy mind and body was cited as the topic of most interest to them. Because of our readers’ keen interest in health and wellness, we have committed to publish this special insert three times a year (Jan., May, Sept.) with ads and articles created around you and your business.

Advertising Deadline: august 20, 2012 Publication Date: august 27, 2012

fAll 2011

Health & Wellnes s Nuts about your heart?

You will be after you read this!

page 5

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Why Medicaid matters for people with Medicare Your Guid e to a H eal t hy Mind & Bod y

page 9

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNew

s.com

3.

FREE seminars Boomer Law School, Medicare Savings and others, inside...

Avoid scams aimed at seniors AARP Elderwatch has advice page 5 Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Your Yearly Guide to Finances

active, aging americans are the most affluent market in the United States, with per capita spending 2 ½ times greater than the general population. Boomers and seniors control 70 percent of the total net worth of all U.S. households. as these generations pass they will be responsible for the largest transfer of wealth in human history. They’ll need a lot of advice.

Advertising Deadline: September 20, 2012 Publication Date: october 1, 2012

Call for information 970

243-8829

! # % ! !

' ! ' % " ! %' ! ' ! ! ! ' & ( " ! # ' $ ! ! # !

Contact Admissions at 970-245-1211

After Hours 970-361-1630

LaVillaGrandeCareCenter.com Located 2 Blocks East of St. Mary’s Hospital off Wellington Ave. • 2501 Little Bookcliff Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81501

30 Finance

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

RestauRant take- out available

Lunch Special

6 $ 600

$ 99

Senior Lunch Special 60+

Dinner Special

$5 off for every $30.00 purchased Dine in only

Patio Seating Available

707 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction

255-8888 MON - SUN, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. www.sushitopeast.com

July 2012

A financial to-do list for the recently widowed

By Jason Alderman

L

osing your spouse is one of life’s most stressful events. Ironically, it’s during that time of grief, when you’re probably not thinking clearly or focusing on such matters, that you’re expected to make many important financial decisions that will impact the rest of your life.

Although there are certain actions you must take right away to ensure your current financial security, several major decisions with long-term consequences should probably be postponed until you’ve had a chance to reflect on how and where you want to spend the rest of your life.

If your spouse primarily handled the finances or you’re not up to the task alone, ask a trusted relative or friend to help you sort out the following information: Gather legal and financial documents that will give a better sense of where you stand financially, including wills, trusts and powers of attorney; mortgage and car title; tax returns; bank, loan and credit card statements; safe deposit box contents; insurance plans and income sources.

Compile outstanding bills and monitor due dates to avoid late charges or penalties for utilities; mortgage or rent; health, auto and homeowners insurance premiums; car, student and personal loans; and credit cards.

If your spouse was still working, contact his or her employer regarding unpaid salary, benefits, life insurance and retirement accounts. This is particularly important if they provide your health insurance.

Other critical actions to take within the first month or two include:

Contact companies where you have joint accounts and convert them to your name only. Also, close any accounts that were in his or her name only that you don’t wish to maintain.

If your spouse was eligible for Social Security, you and your children may qualify for Survivor Benefits.

Call 800-772-1213 or visit www.ssa.gov.

Similarly, if your spouse was a veteran, contact the VA regarding possible survivor benefits at www.vba.va.gov/survivors.

Pay attention to income tax filing dates, particularly if you file quarterly estimated taxes. While the IRS may waive penalty fees on a late filing or underpayment related to your spouse’s death, you’re still responsible for any taxes or interest owed. Call 800-829-1040 or read “Filing Late and/or Paying Late” at www.irs.gov.

Don’t make irreversible financial decisions until you’ve had a chance to adjust to your new status. For example, some people rush to pay off their mortgage, only to discover later that the house is too large, or they can’t afford the taxes and upkeep.

Others feel pressured to move closer to family members, only to discover that they miss their former life.

Other long-range planning suggestions: Rewrite your will and other documents that outline how you’d like your financial and health matters handled if you die, become disabled or become seriously ill.

Until you have a better handle on your new living expenses, live frugally, especially if you’re used to having two incomes. ■

Don’t make irreversible financial decisions until you’ve had a chance to adjust to your new status.

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

31

Art Jewelers Guild: a rare jewel in the Grand Valley

By Terri Benson

M

eet the Art Jewelers Guild of the Grand Junction Area, a group of extremely talented artists who meet monthly to share their work and knowledge of jewelry making.

Started in 2007, the nonprofit guild meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Grandview Apartments, 1501 N. First Street.

Member Jennifer Goodwin, who strings beads and is starting on seed bead weaving, had been looking for others with similar interests in jewelry making, but found most artists were secretive and unwilling to discuss their techniques.

“But not here,” she said. “Everyone is willing to teach and learn new techniques. Our membership ranges from beginner to seasoned professionals and we all share our knowledge.”

The guild’s published goals are: networking, education, expanding skills, promoting sales, and increasing awareness in the community.

They have adopted “Beading to Beat Autism” as a group cause, selling bracelets provided by BBA from their booths and turning the $3 sale price over to the charity. To date, they have raised $244.

Each unique piece the members presented at their most recent meeting was exquisite, demonstrating their varying talents. Founding member Virginia Brewer specializes in beadweaving and bead embroidery, JoAnne Whalen makes

precious metal clay pieces with a kiln, Mary Shipley makes fused glass with a kiln, Becky Haack does bead stringing, JoAnne Pennington works with crystals and vintage stone beads, Tina Meens does wirework and knit and crochet beading, Kathy Stewart works with semi-and-precious stones and is diving into metalwork, and Candy Wall does lampwork glass beads with a torch (including teeny tiny glass animals and beads that spell out words in Braille).

Brewer said that meetings begin with “show and tell” so everyone can show off their newest creation. Once the oohs and aahs die down, one member demonstrates a technique of their choice. The demonstrations are geared to beginners and include topics such as tools, working with different types of clasps, how to run a craft business, assessing customer personalities, and exchanges of materials.

This meeting’s demonstration was

by Goodwin on how to dye cultured freshwater pearls.

Members who wish to sell their creations have several opportunities.

Meadowlark Gardens has hosted a show for the past three years, and the guild sets up booths at several fairs and festivals, including the Mesa County Fair. Membership is open to anyone and costs $30 per year. Professionals and hobbyists are welcome.

For more information and to see galleries of the artists’ work, visit their website at www.artjewelryguild.com, or check them out on Facebook. ■

SPECIAL OFFER EXCLUSIVELY FOR EDUCATORS: TAKE THE AARP DRIVER SAFETY CLASSROOM COURSE FOR JUST $5 IN JULY AND AUGUST. We’re celebrating teachers and school personnel this summer with the AARP Driver Safety Educator Appreciation Promotion! In recognition of your generosity in teaching and helping others, we would like to invite you to attend an AARP Driver Safety classroom course for just $5 in July and August, saving you up to $9 off the normal course price.

The AARP Driver Safety classroom course is the nation’s first and largest course designed for drivers 50 and older. You’ll learn proven safety strategies to help maintain your confidence behind the wheel, so you can make new memories on the road. Plus, you could get a great discount on your car insurance!*

READY TO SIGN UP?

The following $5 classroom course is being offered in your community: Where: Grand Junction Area When: Various dates in July and August

To sign up, call: 243-2531 – YOU MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED

32 faith moves

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Racer repairs by a spirit for 18 years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called he Iditarod Trail covers 1,049 her forward and said to her, ‘Woman, miles through mountain ranges you are set free from your infirmity.’ and over frigid sea ice, from AnchorThen he put his hands on her and age to Nome. Rick Swenson, 58, has immediately she straightened up posted 24 top-10 finishes on his way and praised God. Indignant because to five Iditarod victories.

Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the Swenson was celebrating his 30th synagogue ruler said to the people, trip north along the trail from An‘There are six days for work. So come chorage—years that account for more and be healed on those days, not on than 33,000 the Sabbath.’” miles of Idi“The Lord tarod racing— answered him, when he ‘You hyposhared this crites! Doesn’t observation: each of you on “Almost every the Sabbath place I went, I untie his ox or thought, ‘Oh, donkey from back in ‘76 the stall and this happened lead it out to here and in ‘81 give it water? we were stuck Then should there.’ I’ve got not this woma lot of memoan, a daughter ries when I go of Abraham, down the trail.” whom Satan The point for has kept bound any Iditarod Scuderia Ferrari pit stop at 2000 Italian Grand Prix. for 18 long racer who’s Photo by Paddy Briggs. years, be set “off the trail,” free on the Sabbath day from what or for any NASCAR driver who’s “in bound her?’” the pit,” or for any other racer who What a powerful display of Jeis “stuck there” is do whatever needs sus’ purpose. He’s excited about done as quickly as possible to get racer repairs, even when the critics back in the race. would keep a racer down, bound, or Jesus specialized in something I grounded for another day, a more opcall “racer repairs.” Note that this portune moment, or more politicallyis not repair of racial relations, but correct timing. The Lord’s Day (we repair of the contestants who are in call it that for good reason) particuthe Race of Life. It seems to be the larly lends itself to racer repairs. The very target of His ministry. He said, Day of Rest is like a pit stop—time “I came to seek and save the lost,” to refuel, fix a flat, replace a broken which when translated into the Race part, top off the oil and coolant, and of Life metaphor, comes out, “I came do whatever it takes to get back out to repair the racers and get them on the track. back onto the track.”

The apostle Paul, after a lifetime Luke 13 recounts an encounter that of fixed flats, replaced parts, mainteJesus had with someone not doing so nance and repairs in the Race of Life, well in the Race of Life. came one day to write: “I have fin“On a Sabbath, Jesus was teaching ished the race, I have kept the faith.” in one of the synagogues and a womThe challenge is for us to do the an was there who had been crippled same. ■

By Merle Miller Appleton Christian Church

T

Reaching Out to Those Reaching Up

Bethel Assembly of God Church Join us in a friendly atmosphere, a loving congregation and anointed Praise and Worship.

We are a family oriented church that focuses on reaching the whole person: ages 2 to 92 and beyond.

Visit our website: www.gjbethel.org for information about our ministries and to listen to past services.

2945 Orchard Avenue • Grand Junction

970-243-8247

Pastors David and Carol Huslig - Serving over 30 years

SUNDAY 9:30 - Sunday School 10:45 - Worship Service 6:00 - Evening Worship WEDNESDAY 7:00 - Bible Study MPact Girls Royal Rangers

Who says aging people don’t deal with change?

“My health, housing, doctors and even my friends are all changing!”

What I want is a nice stable place to worship and maybe meet some friends who will support me in all of these changes. First United Methodist Church - a rich tradition downtown for more than 125 years. Beautiful stained glass, warm friendly people, and a loving God who doesn’t change!

First United Methodist Church

Sunday worship services: Relaxed Celebrative 8:30 a.m.

Traditional inspiring 9:45 & 11:10 a.m.

Located at 5th & White (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Crossword puzzle 33

Crossword Puzzle

Across 1 Says more 5 Respond 10 Canton’s Starr 14 Father 15 Diamond flaw?

16 Large part of the globe 17 A man in Jeopardy 18 Transistor predecessor 20 Nebraska river 22 Surrepti-tious types 23 Farm -equipment pioneer 25 S.C. time 26 Laser gun sound effect 29 Buck’s pride 31 Nothing more than 33 Sci-fi -vehicle 34 Listlessness 36 Pastoral 37 Trample underfoot 39 Serves beer after beer 41 Like old records 42 Finger or toe 44 Bathing, body, and birthday 46 Rummy game 47 Imitates 49 Redcaps 51 Turn state’s evidence 52 Head of thick, stringy hair 54 Pageant headgear 55 “The Color Purple� star 57 Ascot -relative 60 Impossible to miss 64 Fodder structure 65 Type of -edition 66 First name in beauty 67 School in Britain 68 Mine finds 69 Name in chicken 70 Colors

Down 1 Immediately!

2 Pickle -flavoring 3 Type of -battleship 4 Singing group, -perhaps 5 Deeply respectful 6 Seaver’s stat 7 Three-point lines, e.g.

8 Two-door 9 Platitude 10 Swings for the fences 11 Tempe Univ.

12 Make fun of 13 South Korea’s Roh ___ Woo

19 Poet’s -concern 21 BBC -receiver 24 Sea eagles 26 A space case?

27 “Jagged Little Pill� singer Morissette 28 Egyptian gateway 29 Toto hit 30 First light 32 Coke’s partner 33 Fresh milk container?

35 Born fool 38 Dossier info 40 Wounded 43 Sweeten the deal 45 Luminary 48 FrappĂŠ -relative 50 Rubbed out 53 Buddy-buddy 55 Individuals 56 Dome -toppers?

58 Moisturizer ingredient 59 Cargo weights 60 Arafat’s org.

61 Something in the water 62 Mineral -suffix 63 Modernist, for short

MAKING YOUR WISHES KNOWN

Richard W. Lewis, Funeral Director

Meeting with a funeral director and specifying your preferences is the

receive the exact type of funeral and burial services you desire.

The next step involves notifying your family of your wishes to prevent any uncertainty or disagreements between surviving family members over issues such as cremation versus burial, open

pre-arrangements only to have their family members challenge such arrangements after their deaths. The

your case and listen to family members’ concerns.

This proactive approach is far better than having squabbles arise after your passing.

Those who throw up their hands and decide to

doing a disservice to the person(s) who will be in charge of their funeral arrangements. Family

there will be funds available to cover the costs

It is an undeniable fact that the cost of funeral services has historically increased. One way to protect yourself and your family from spending

expenses at today’s cost. This is what happens when you prearrange and prepay for your funeral and burial expenses.

It is best not to leave the details of planning your funeral until the end, as these choices can be

members to accept. We provide personal service to all families and, as a full-service funeral home;Íž we can assist you in completing all of the arrangements

At Martin Mortuary, your local Dignity MemorialÂŽ provider, we have helped hundreds of families with their pre-arrangement plans. We have been serving families in the Grand Valley and surrounding areas since 1917. Please feel free to visit our mortuary at 550 North Avenue, and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at 970-243-1538 to set up an appointment, or visit our website: www.

MartinMortuary.com.

Whether you desire cremation or burial, Martin Mortuary now provides the security of insurance funded funeral prearrangements.

Over 65 years combined experience!

SERVICE, LLC

FREE DIAGNOSTICS BY ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS • Transmission Overhauls • General Maintenance On All Transmissions, Transfer Cases & Differentials • Standard transmissions/Clutches • Heavy Duty & Race Rebuilds Used & refurbished transmissions also available!

We do a thorough check-out & explain your options prior to any repair!

Ask About Our Nationwide Warranty!

For Slips, Drips & Funny Shifts, CALL

245-6640 2220 E. Main St.

(Next to Drive Line Service)

Grand Junction, CO

www.bakerstransmission.com

34 Mesa county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mesa County Calendar Compiled by Cloie Sandlin July 3-5

Grand Junction Rockies Baseball See our new baseball team play a weekend of home games at Suplizio Field. They play Orem at 7:05 p.m. on July 3 and 6:30 p.m. on July 4, and they play Idaho Falls at 7:05 p.m. on July 5. Ticket prices vary. For more information, call 255-7625.

July 4

Palisade Independence Day Celebration Celebrate Independence Day in Palisade with a parade, games and food at Palisade Memorial Park. For more information, call 464-5602 or visit www.townofpalisade.org.

July 4

Independence Day Parade and Fireworks Spectacular The grand old flag flies high every Fourth of July as this annual patriotic parade makes its way down Main Street. Community organizations join together in celebrating our country’s independence with colorful floats and costumes of red, white and blue.

After, go to Lincoln Park to watch one of the best fireworks displays in the Grand Valley. Come early, bring your lawn chair, and enjoy the amazing celebration of our country’s independence. Go to the Grand Junction Rockies Baseball Game and get the best view of the fireworks. Fireworks start at 9:45 p.m., or at the conclusion of the game. For more information about the parade, call 245-9697. For the fireworks, call 256-3866.

July 5

Family Night at the Math and Science Center The John McConnell Math and Science Center is creating a world-class center that integrates teaching and hands-on excitement into a science, technology, engineering and mathlearning environment. Explore the Math and Science Center on Family Night from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m., where admission is only $5 for the entire

family. For more information, call 254-1626 or visit www.mathand sciencecenter.org.

July 6

First Friday at the Art Center See what’s happening at the Art Center on the First Friday of the month.

First Friday events are free and open to the public. Introductions will be at 6:30 p.m. and the reception will follow from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at the Art Center, 1803 N. Seventh St. in Grand Junction. See the opening of several exhibits, including “Taken from Life, Transformed and then The Still Life,” featuring contemporary works in photography and video with featured artists Gary Haushulz, Nicholas Walker, Melissa Pruitt, Stevan Maxwell, Stephanie Kirk, John Anglim, Patrick G. Metoyer and Rick Visser. Added attractions in the outside garden are chalk drawing for all ages, a painting demo by Sara Alyn Oakley, and face painting by Janet Timony. For more information, call 243-7337 or visit www.gjartcenter.org.

July 6-8

Colorado Lavender Festival The Lavender Association of Western Colorado is proud to host Colorado’s only lavender festival in downtown Palisade. Take a guided bus tour of area farms on Friday, along with lunch and a wine reception. Cost is $55. The festival takes place 9 a.m.5 p.m. Saturday in Palisade Memorial Park. There will be many retail vendors featuring high-quality lavender inspired items and handmade goods, educational sessions, and more. Each session costs $10, but attend all four for a discounted price of $30. Visit the farms on a self-guided tour on Sunday, meet the growers, and learn different growing techniques. For more information, call 210-3559 or visit www.coloradolavender.com.

July 7

Golf tournament to benefit Rose Hill Hospitality House The Knights of Columbus Council will host its annual golf tournament

to benefit the Rose Hill Hospitality House of St. Mary’s Hospital. This year’s event takes place at Adobe Creek National Golf Club, 876 18 1/2 Road in Fruita and will include a $10,000 hole-in-one prize. Each golfer will receive a door prize ticket, and additional door prize tickets will be available for $1 each. Door prizes include a set of golf clubs, casino weekends, wine from local wineries, day spa certificates, golf certificates, and more. Registration starts at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Cost is $85 per person. For more information, call 260-7664.

July 12

Poems for a Starry Night Join astronomer Danny Rosen of the Western Sky Planetarium and Dr. Luis Lopez at the Central Library Programming Room, 530 Grand Ave., for an evening of mythology, science, imagination and poetry. They will read poems about stars, constellations, galaxies and other musings of living on a small spinning ball hurtling through the big dark sky. Adults can add points to their summer reading log for attending this free event. For more information, call 243-4442 or visit www.mcpld.org.

July 12

The Samples outdoor concert The Samples are a reggae-influenced rock/pop band formed in Boulder in early 1987. The band’s name came from the members’ early sustenance of food samples from the local King Soopers grocery store. Their music has been described as a cross between The Police and The Grateful Dead. See them at James M. Robb Colorado River State Park in Fruita at 7 p.m. Admission is free, but you must get tickets beforehand. For more information, call 243-8497.

July 12-15

Grand Valley Performing Arts Festival A showcase of entertaining music, dance, theater and poetry will fill the Colorado Mesa University Moss Performing Arts Center and adjacent lawn when the second annual Grand Valley Performing Arts Festival rolls out an exciting array of perfor-

July 2012 mances, workshops and activities for people of all ages. The high point of the weekend is the main stage show “Art Revolution,” featuring a big screen, live action, multimedia theatrical dance experience set to the music and message of John Lennon and The Beatles at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday in Robinson Theater.

For a full list of events and admission prices, call 245-8930 or visit www. gvperformingartsfestival.org.

July 13-15

“Cats” at the Avalon Broadway comes to the Avalon Theatre, 645 Main St. in Grand Junction.

“Cats” will be performed at 7:30 p.m.

July 13 & 14 and at 2 p.m. July 15.

“Miss Saigon” will be performed in October and “Oliver!” will be performed in December. Tickets range from $20 to $40, but season tickets are $100. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 263-5700 or visit www.tworiversconvention.com.

July 14

Glade Park Cowboy Poetry Festival Bring your own chairs to this fundraiser for Glade Park Community Service. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. with poetry by Terry Nash and Donnie Wynkoop, and music by Peggy Malone and Deb Bukala to follow. No pets please. Cost is $10 per person or $25 for a family of four. The festival takes place at the Glade Park Community Service building. For more information, call 257-9693.

July 14

El Cañón Pintado Tour When the Spanish explorers Dominguez and Escalante passed through northern Colorado in 1776, they were fascinated by the amount of rock art south of today’s Rangely. They named the area El Cañón Pintado—the painted canyon. This tour, led by Zebulon Miracle, is $55 for members of the Museum of Western Colorado and $60 for nonmembers. Cost includes transportation. Attendees will see several examples of Fremont and Ute rock art on this trip and will discuss early exploration in the area. Register

by July 11. For more information, call 242-0971 or visit www.museumof westernco.com.

July 2012 July 14 & 15

Downtown Grand Junction Art Festival Bold and vibrant paintings, contemporary and whimsical art, life-size sculptures, photography, jewelry, ceramics, collage, glass and wood are among the original works of art that will be on display and for sale at the Downtown Grand Junction Art Festival from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Main Street. Prices are set to suit all budgets. All artists will be on site to discuss their art and inspiration.

Admission is free. For more information, call 561-746-6615 or visit www. artfestival.com.

July 17

Volunteer Roundup for Foster Grandparents The Foster Grandparent Program will host a Volunteer Roundup at Connection Church, 402 Grand Ave. in Grand Junction from 9 a.m. to noon.

Refreshments will be available. Staff members will available to share information, conduct interviews for interested volunteers, and answer questions about the program. The need is great for additional volunteers at preschools and elementary schools in the Grand Valley. Volunteers must relate well to children and display patience and kindness while working approximately 15 hours a week during the school year. For more information, call Tanya Fink at 263-9091 ext. 6.

July 17-21

Mesa County Fair Mesa County Fair, 2785 Hwy 50 in Grand Junction, showcases everything that is Mesa County. There will be a wine competition, carnival, exhibits, demonstrations, local entertainment, grand stand shows, and a 4-H/FFA livestock show and sale.

Tickets for adults are $5 and seniors 60 and older are $1. Some shows may require an extra fee. The fair opens at 11 a.m. For more information, call 256-1528 or visit www.mesacounty fair.com.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com July 19

Centennial Band concert Come and enjoy a variety of classics, modern composers, traditional marches, patriotic songs and new sounds by the Centennial Band at 7 p.m. in Sherwood Park. By playing different music at each performance, the band gives audiences a variety of popular, easy listening, and musically challenging selections. Attendees are encouraged to come early and bring comfortable lawn chairs. Admission is free. For more information, call 245-6771.

July 20

Gloriana in concert Gloriana is an American country music group founded in 2008, composed of brothers Tom Gossin and Mike Gossin (vocals, guitar), as well as Rachel Reinert (vocals, tambourine). Gloriana released its debut single “Wild at Heart” in February 2009, which was a Top 15 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. They will perform from 8 p.m.10 p.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center. Ticket prices range from $10 to $12. For more information, call 263-5700 or visit www.monumental events.com.

July 20 & 28

The Elixir of Love Come see High Desert Opera’s production of Gaetano Donizetti’s comic Italian opera, “The Elixir of Love,” presented in English and set in the Wild West days of The Grand Valley circa 1890. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, July 20 and Saturday, July 28 at the Avalon Theatre, 645 Main St. in Grand Junction. Ticket prices range from $10 to $39. To purchase tickets, call High Desert Opera at 523-9605, stop by Roper Music, or visit www.highdesertopera.org.

Read more about the production and High Desert Opera on page 28 in this month’s BEACON. ■

If you have an event or photo you would like to have appear in the Beacon, send it to: beacon@pendantpublishing.com.

River City Singles

Mesa county 35

July 2012 Activity Schedule

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

Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) meets at 5 p.m. Fridays in the lounge at The Doubletree Hotel, 743 Horizon Drive. The first FAC meeting of the month is our business meeting and the second is Birthday Recognition Day for our members. Call Jim Spiegel at 424-2545 for details.

Friday, July 20 - At the FAC, the River City Singles will hold its annual election for the Executive Board for the 2012-2013 term. Please attend this very important meeting to meet and vote for your new leaders.

Tuesdays at 10 a.m. – Join us for Early Start Breakfast at Denny’s on Horizon Drive. Call Debbie Grose at 245-4995 for details.

Wednesdays at 5 p.m. – Dine out at the following locations every week. Call Debbie Grose at 245-4995 for details.

July 4 – Olive Garden, 2416 Hwy 6 & 50 July 11 – Famous Dave’s BBQ, 2440 Hwy 6 & 50 July 18 – Dos Hombres, 421 Brach Dr. July 25 – Outback Steakhouse, 2432 Hwy 6 & 50 Sundays at noon – It’s Bowling Sunday followed by card games at Orchard Mesa Lanes, 295 27 Road. RSVP to Jim Sanders at 257-1174.

Saturdays at 9 a.m. – As part of the Saturday Morning Bike Ride, meet at Albertson’s on the Redlands for an easy ride along the Colorado River Trail. Call Jim Sanders at 2571174 for details.

Wednesdays at 8 a.m. – Wednesday Golf at Adobe Creek Golf Course, 876 18 1/2 Road in Fruita. RSVP by Monday by calling the golf course at 858-0521. For details, call Lynn Klein at 245-6224 or Fran Deaver at 248-9211.

Monday, July 2 – Ron White will lead this easy moonlight hike around the lake and meadows in Fruita. Meet at 7:30 p.m. at Rib City Grill, 455 Kokopelli Blvd. in Fruita to carpool. We will eat before the hike. RSVP to Ron White at 464-7056 or John Delehanty at 241-3171, or sign up at the FAC. Wednesday, July 4 – Celebrate the Fourth of July at Billie Herman’s in Palisade at 4 p.m. Bring a potluck item and BYOB. There will be the possibility of fireworks later. RSVP to Billie at 464-0578 or sign up at the FAC. Sunday, July 8 – Vista Vineyard’s concert season begins. Located at 3587 G Road in Palisade, Cedaredge residents Ellen Stapenhorst and Bobby Mason will be performing for a small audience in a relaxed atmosphere. There will be free homemade dessert available.

A small donation is requested at the concert. For more information, contact John Delehanty at 241-3171.

Tuesday, July 10 – Join us on a ranger guided bus tour of the Colorado National Monument. The bus leaves Lincoln Park Barn at 8 a.m. and returns at 1 p.m. Bring food and drink. Cost is $10 per person. Must register by July 6 to John Delehanty at 241-3171.

Wednesday, July 11 – Horseback ride at Rim Rock Adventures, 927 Colorado 340 in Fruita. Meet there at 8:45 a.m. for a two hour ride in the Monument Canyon. Call John Delehanty at 241-3171 for details or sign up at the FAC. The more riders joining us, the greater the price discount.

Thursday, July 26 - Restaurant Rove. Enjoy brunch with friends. Meet at Spoons Bistro and Bakery, 3090 N. 12th St. in Grand Junction at 11:45 a.m. RSVP to John Delehanty at 241- 3171 or Mary Lu Graham at 241-0280.

We’re on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

36 Mesa county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mesa County Beacon Bits Compiled by Cloie Sandlin

Take the AARP Driver Safety Class for just $5 AARP is celebrating teachers and school personnel this summer with the AARP Driver Safety Educator Appreciation Promotion. In recognition of their generosity in teaching and helping others, we would like to invite current and retired educators and school personnel to attend an AARP Driver Safety classroom course for just $5 in July and August. The AARP Driver Safety classroom course is designed for drivers 50 and older.

You’ll learn proven safety strategies to help maintain your confidence behind the wheel. Plus, you could get a discount on your car insurance. You must be preregistered to attend. For dates and location in Grand Junction, call 243-2531.

“I Pledge” encourages patriotism From 4 p.m.-6 p.m. every Friday evening in July, bring your grandchildren age 12 and under in to Enstrom Candies to recite the Pledge of Allegiance from memory and receive a free ice cream cone. The “I Pledge” project is a nationwide effort amongst local ice cream shops to encourage patriotism among school age children. This campaign is a positive

Dejulio’s Carpet & upholstery Care 249-1970

After 30 years in the Montrose area we have expanded our service to the Grand Junction area.

Introduction special for month of July

2 room & Hall $7500

Full House $20000

4 rooms & Hall CouCH & loveseat $10500 $10500 Powerful Truck Mount Unit No Max. Square Footage Required. Oriental Rug Cleaning.

Offer ends 7/31/12. www.dejuliocarpetcleaning.com

Owner OperAted (JerAld deJuliO)

July 2012

www.rsvpgrandjunction.org or call 243-9839.

• Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley is a nonprofit organization way to celebrate National Ice Cream providing housing, compassionate month, which falls in July, as well as services, and safe shelter for individuour nation’s Independence Day. als and families. It is always in need Redlands flag service of community volunteers. If you are People residing in the Seasons, Tia interested, please call 256-9424.

Rado, Panorama, South Broadway • GriefShare: Healing from grief and the Redlands Village areas can through Christ is held at 6:30 p.m. receive the Redlands Lions Club’s every Monday at Fellowship Church, flag service. The delivery year begins 765 24 Road. For more information, July 1. Flags are placed in front of contact Vicci at 434-9473. residences on nine holidays a year for • Gray Gourmet needs several adult a fee of $30. The fee can volunteers to deliver a be prorated. We also deweekday lunch to homeliver flags on September bound seniors in the 11 to make up for any Grand Valley. To find out holiday that was missed more about delivering due to inclement weathmeals to homebound seer. Customers want to niors, call Marsha at 243demonstrate how much 9844 ext. 5. Volunteers they appreciate the priviare also needed to work lege to live in this great (on call) to serve lunch country. For information, at one of our senior dincall Chuck at 242-3222. ing sites in Grand Junction one day per week.

St. Mary’s health For more information, events call Sheli at 243-9844.

• Free Joint Pain • Alpine Hospice needs Seminar – Attend a free, volunteers to help paone-hour seminar and tients tell their life story. find out what you can Local photographer Scott Bevill captured a November sunrise on the Colorado It’s a rewarding oppordo about your joint pain. National Monument. Bevill is one of the 23 featured photographers in the Colo- tunity to offer support, Learn about the causes rado National Monument Association’s 2013 calendar, available at the Colorado listen and be a friend to and latest treatments, National Monument Visitor Center and several other locations. someone facing end-ofincluding information on life issues. Training is medications, nutrition and exercise.

Need Medicare help? provided. Volunteer office support Seminar takes place from 11 a.m. to RSVP offers free Senior Health Insurpositions are also available. Contact noon on Monday, July 16 at the Orance Program counseling to help seSandy at 210-5912 for details. thopedics Conference Room on the niors make informed decisions about • St. Mary’s Foster Grandparent eighth floor of St. Mary’s Hospital. their Medicare health coverage and Program needs volunteers to help Call 298-2380 to register. drug plans. No selling, just telling. tutor and mentor school children that • Stroke Support Group - St. Mary’s Knowing your options will help you are at-risk for developmental delays.

Stroke Support Group will meet from make the best choice. Extra help for Call Tanya at 263-9091.

1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Friday, July 20, in limited-income people is also avail• Operation Interdependence the Grand Mesa Room of St. Mary’s able for paying premiums, drugs, and needs volunteers to collect notes Life Center, 2686 Patterson Road. other Medicare costs. Call 243-9839 for the troops at the Glade Park Fire St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group to make an appointment. Or walk in Department’s Movies Under the Stars. meets monthly to provide informa9 a.m. to noon, Thursdays only, at the For more information, call 523-4217. tion and support to those recovering U.S. Bank Building’s lower level at Club activities from stroke and/or their family 422 White Ave. in Grand Junction.

• The Western Slope Coin Club members and caregivers. Call Volunteer opportunities meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second 298-1929 for more information.

• RSVP connects individuals 55+ to Wednesday of each month at the Cancer survivors wanted for volunteer positions in any of our 90+ Redlands Community Center, 2463 member agencies. For a complete free wellness course Broadway. For more information, list of volunteer opportunities, visit call 241-1770 or 242-3716.

St. Mary’s is looking for cancer survivors to participate in “Cancer: Thriving and Surviving,” a course in wellness and self-management of chronic conditions experienced by those treated for cancer. The course is being offered at no cost to cancer survivors and their caregivers and friends. The class will meet at St. Mary’s Regional Cancer Center on seven consecutive Thursday evenings beginning July 11. The course is open to cancer survivors who have completed active treatment regardless of when or where they were treated.

Call 298-2351 for more information.

July 2012 • The Talk of the Town Toastmasters invite you to join their weekly Thursday lunch hour club meetings from noon to 1 p.m. at the Business Incubator, 2591 Legacy Way (B-3/4 Road). For more information, call 244-1625.

• The Grand Valley Knights are a group of auto enthusiasts that meet every Saturday from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. at Spoon’s Bistro and Bakery, 3090 N. 12th St. with their sport and classic vehicles. For more information, call 462-6762 or visit www.grandvalley knights.com.

• Thunder Mountain Camera Club will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. on July 24 at the River of Alliance Church, 701 24 1/2 Road in Grand Junction. Call 260-7488.

• The Two River Sams Chapter Good Sam RV Club will meet at 1 p.m. on July 28. For location, call 248-9846 or 261-8817.

• The Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Cross Orchards, 3073 F Road, and at the Museum of Western Colorado, 462 Ute Ave. at noon on the fourth Wednesday of the month. They also host a help session at 1 p.m. on the first Friday of the month at one of the Mesa County libraries. Bring a lunch.

For more information, call 245-5312.

• Mesa County Republican Women meet the second Monday of each month at Two Rivers Convention Center at noon. Lunch is $15 per person. RSVP to 248-0815.

• The Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. every Thursday at New Life Church, 1350 N. Seventh St. For more information, call 261-1670.

• Happy Feet Rounds meets at the Masonic Lodge, 2400 Consistory Court on Sundays for a variety of dancing including waltz, rumba, cha-cha and more. Beginners are welcome from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. and intermediate dancers are welcome from 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. For more information, call 243-5858.

• The Grand Valley Woodcarvers Club meets from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month and from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. on

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com the second and fourth Wednesdays at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Carvers and wood artisans of all skill levels are welcome. For more information, call 245-8817 or 523-5965.

• Levis & Lace Square Dance Club hosts square dances from 7 p.m.9:30 p.m. every Friday night at the Masonic Lodge, 2400 Consistory Court in Grand Junction. For more information, call 986-8801 or 434-6541.

• The Art Jewelers Guild meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Grandview Apartments on the northwest corner of First Street and Independence Avenue. Learn how easy and fun it is to make your own jewelry. For more information, call 243-1220.

• MACHO Men, a breast cancer support group, meets at 5 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at St. Mary’s Hospital’s coffee shop. Use Entrance 25. For more information, call 298-2351 or 858-1301.

• Western Slope Non-Smoking Singles has meetings on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

Times vary, so call Flora at 243-1813.

• The Palisade Masonic Lodge is the only daylight lodge in the Grand Valley. They meet at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month at the corner of Fifth and Kluge Avenue.

All Masons are invited to attend. For more information, call 245-5312.

• Join the Mesa County Democrats at Canyon View Park at 3 p.m.-7 p.m. on Sunday, July 15 for a free barbecue and a meet and greet with your democratic candidates. If you can, bring your spare change to the picnic to help support the candidates.

• Friends of the Mustangs are celebrating 30 years and invite you to come to their meeting on July 28.

RSVP by July 9. Call Georgia at 216-0011 or Beverly at 640-2751 for time and place.

• The Grand Junction Christian Women’s Network invites all ladies to their luncheon at 12:15 p.m. July 12 at the Clarion Inn on Horizon Drive. Dawn Hetzler will share with us “How to Be Rich in this Economy.”

Come and get inspired. RSVP to Mary Ann at 858-7120 by July 7. ■

Mesa county 37

Win Tickets to the Telluride Jazz Festival

Call 3-5 AugusT 243-8829

The Telluride Jazz Festival is known for featuring the best in jazz music and the BEACON wants to give you the chance to win TWO 3-day passes (a $270 value!) to this year’s festival!

entering to win is as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Answer the following trivia questions on the entry form below or online at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com.

if all your questions are correct, you are entered into a drawing for the tickets. The winner will be contacted by Friday, July 20.

2. Fill out your contact information.

3. Submit the form online or mail the entry form to: BEACON Senior Newspaper P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

 How long has the telluride Jazz festival been around?

• 6 years • 16 years

• 26 years

• 36 years

 for what song was roy Hargrove nominated for the Best improvised Jazz solo grammy in 2010?

• My Funny Valentine • Ms. Garvey, Ms. Garvey • La Puerta • September in the Rain  what jazz artist set to perform at the telluride Jazz festival made their major label debut with a duet with a legendary pianist by the the last name of Jones?

• Marco Benevento • Caleb Chapman FiRST ANd LAST NAME:

PhONE NuMBER:

• Sasha Masakowski • Roberta Gambarini

38 Delta/ Montrose counties

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com mon

- fri 8am - 8 pm|Sat 8am - 4 pm Sun noon - 4 pm

There when you need them the most Minor Injuries & illness Colds, Flu, & Allergies Sports, DOT & employment physicals.

Lacerations & Fracture Care Terry S. Wade D.O. Barbara Budagher P.A.-C Chris Palsley P.A.-C 836 S. townSend, montroSe next to eldorado bakery

249-2118

Booths availaBle Montrose-Delta

september 20, 2012 Montrose Pavilion, Montrose

Prize Giveaways Informational Booths Live Entertainment All Day 

Yes, please send me free information on being an exhibitor at BeaconFest.

company contact address state zip

city phone

fax

e- mail product category

Phone: 243-8829 Fax: 1-800- 536-7516

Mail: P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

July 2012

Montrose-Delta BeaconFest Senior Fair seeks vendors T

he BEACON Senior Newspaper is seeking vendors, seminar speakers, demonstrations and publicity partners for the second annual Montrose-Delta BeaconFest Senior Fair, held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, September 20 at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive.

This year’s Montrose-Delta BeaconFest is an exceptional opportunity for area businesses to personally market their products and services to over 1,100 area boomers and seniors.

The Montrose-Delta BeaconFest is free to attend. This year’s show features an exciting line up of entertainment, free food, lively seminars and informational booths from over 50 senior related businesses.

Thousands of dollars worth of door

prizes will be given away throughout the day to both attendees and exhibitors.

Vendor space is available. For more information on participating in this event, call the BEACON Senior Newspaper at 970-243-8829 or visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com.

Who: BEACON Senior Newspaper What: Montrose-Delta BeaconFest Senior Fair When: Thursday, September 20, 2012 Time: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Where: Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive, Montrose, Colorado Why: It’s free, informational and fun!

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Delta/ Montrose counties 39

Delta/Montrose Calendar Compiled by Cloie Sandlin July 4-8

Paonia Cherry Days Fourth of July fireworks, cherry cobbler, a pancake breakfast, parade, carnival, dancing, car show, art gallery, wine tasting, beer garden and live entertainment are among the festivities at the 66th annual Paonia Cherry Days. Enjoy interactive art activities, productions and comedy at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts and the Paradise Theatre. This year’s theme is “Routed in Community.”

Cherry Days is one of the oldest outdoor festivals and will have a mix of events both old and new. Admission is free, but some events require a fee.

For more information, call 527-3886 or visit www.paoniachamber.com.

July 13

Cupcake Wars Sunrise Creek Senior Living Communities, 1968 Sunrise Drive in Montrose, is hosting a cupcake judging at 3 p.m. Bring a dozen cupcakes. Six will be judged and six will be sold at the event to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. The categories are Best Decorated, Best Tasting and Best Kids Decorated Cupcake. You can enter into as many categories as you’d like.

Awards will be presented at the event. Contest entries are due between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. To register, stop by the front desk or email Erin Berge at SunriseCreek-CRD@emeritus.com.

July 13-15

Black Canyon Quilt Show The 17th annual Black Canyon Quilt Show promotes the art of quilting from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive. This year’s theme is “Honoring America through Quilts.” There will be many vendors, demonstrations and door prizes, including a beautiful quilt that will be raffled off. Judy

Martin will host a special presentation at 1 p.m. called “Stellar QuiltsStars that Stand Out” for $15. Admission to the event is $3 for adults. For more information, call 252-3494 or visit www.blackcanyonquiltshow. com.

July 16

AARP Driver Safety Course in Delta Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 530 Gunnison River Drive in Delta, will host the AARP Driver Safety Program from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws. The fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers.

AARP would like to thank all current and retired educators and school personnel in July and August by offering the class to them for only $5.

Preregistration is required. Call John at 856-6924 or 424-1778.

Monday is Senior Day at the Thumb $30 for 18 holes with cart 55 years and older qualify

$25 Wednesdays when you bring a foursome Special starts after 12 pm 874 - 6262  9900 Devils Thumb Drive  DelTa, CO

July 19-22

Deltarado Days “Community Pride, City Wide” is the theme of the 77th annual Deltarado Days. The activities are bigger and better than ever. Street vendors line the streets of downtown Delta during this four-day event, which includes a parade, classic car show, benefit dinners, a community band performance, street dances, barrel races, live entertainment and more.

Among the featured events are the Lane Frost Bull Ride Challenge and a first time performance by the High Desert Opera, presenting “Elixir of Love,” an 1890s western Colorado comedy. New this year is a 5K run and a visit by the Commemorative Air Force and their 1945 Grumman Avenger torpedo bomber. General festival admission is free, but some fees apply to select activities. For more information, call 874-8616 or visit www.deltacolorado.org. ■

Mild Hyperbaric Therapy is now available on the Western Slope Non-Invasive Treatment for: Anti-aging, Asthma, Autism, Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy,

Crohn’s Disease, Cancer Treatment Recovery, Diabetes,

Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Lupus, Lyme Disease,

Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sports

Injuries, Stroke, and Surgery Recovery.

Ne Nes w offic s Ci e in NOW ty, Kan OPE sas N!

$10 OFF a package of four or more dives

Call us today

If you have an event or photo you would like to have appear in the Beacon, send it to: beacon@pen dantpublishing.com.

970-252-3360

or visit our website

www.dchyperbarics.com

to learn more about the benefits of mHBT

located inside Dunnagan Chiropractic

145 S. Cascade Ave in Montrose 970-252-3360

40 Delta/ Montrose counties

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Delta-Montrose Beacon Bits

Tobler DenTal

General & Family Dentistry Now accepting new patients.

“Your Hometown Dentist”

Dr. Tobler and family

Compiled by Cloie Sandlin

Volunteer opportunities

Seniors to receive $1 million in contracted services

• Montrose Community Band is in need of brass players. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Band practices at 7 p.m. every Monday at the Montrose High School Band Room.

For more information, call 596-1188 or visit www.montroseband.com.

• Alpine Hospice in Montrose is seeking volunteers to help their patients tell their life stories. Share some laughter, hold a hand, and be there when you’re needed most.

For more information, call Pam at 275-6064.

Are you (or someone you love) over age 60 and in need of services? If so, help is just a phone call away.

More than $1 million in funding will be awarded through the Region 10 Area Agency on Aging, guaranteeing continued access to caregiving, transportation, homemaking, preventive dental care, legal aid and ombudsman services for local seniors. Region 10 AAA has identified 11 qualified contractors through its annual request for proposal process. With the support of federal, state and local funding, Region 10 Area Agency on Aging programs are available at no cost to seniors, but donations for services are requested to ensure adequate levels of service remain available to those in need. To learn more about the programs and services offered through the Region 10 Area Agency on Aging, call AAA Director Michelle Haynes at 249-2436.

Historical museum walking tours Montrose County Historical Museum will be starting Local Legends and True Tales historical walking tours from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Cost is $5. For more information, call 249-2085.

Montrose-Delta Senior Fair

Delta Saturday Market Delta’s Saturday Market takes place at Third and Main Streets from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first Saturdays of each month through October. There will be a Farmers Market, concessionaires, artists, crafts, games, face painting, live music, animal shelters, artisan food producers, and more.

For more information, call 874-8616 or visit www.deltacolorado.org.

Ridgway Summer Concert Series The fifth season of The Ridgway Concert Series begins July 5 and continues each Thursday through July 26.

The series starts at 6 p.m., is free to the public, and features national acts such as The March Fourth Marching Band, Shinyribs, Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds, and Rose’s Pawn Shop.

Expect great views, great music, lots of dancing and tons of fun. Food

availaBle [ Booths Call 243-8829 ]

140 S. Uncompahgre Ave.

(behind the Montrose Police Dept. between S. 1st and S. 2nd)

Call now for an appointment

249-1733

Dental Care for Your overall HealtH

September 20, 2012 • 9 a.m.-2 p.m. • Montrose Pavilion, Montrose, CO

July 2012 and beer will be available and the audience is welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and picnics.

For more information, call 260-6493 or visit www.ridgwayconcertseries. com.

• July 12, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Join us on a trip to the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival. Take an identification walk on local trails or take a guided tour in local gardens. Cost is $38.

Stroke Support Group

• July 27, 7:15 a.m.-3 p.m.

Switzerland of America Jeep Tours is our guide on this 4-wheel drive tour of Yankee Boy Basin, a photographer’s paradise when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Cost is $70.

The Montrose Memorial Hospital Stroke Support Group meets twice a month at the hospital’s Acute Rehab Unit from 11 a.m. to noon. Stroke survivors, family members and caregivers are all encouraged to attend. For more information and meeting days, call Tim Ramsey at 318-2028.

Delta Senior Center activities The following activities are offered at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 530 Gunnison River Drive in Delta.

To register for any of the following activities, call 874-0923.

• July 14 & 28, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Gentle float trip from Escalante Canyon to Dominguez Canyon. Meet at the Escalante Bridge on the Gunnison River. Register three days prior.

Cost is $80.

• July 26-28, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Thurs. & Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. Rifle Hunter Safety Education Class involves firearms safety, hunting ethics, wildlife management and conservation, wildlife identification, outdoor survival, live range qualification and more. You will receive your Hunters Education Card after completion of the course. Cost is $10.

Register by July 24.

Montrose Senior Activities The Montrose Recreation District has the following activities scheduled for seniors 50+ in July. Register one week ahead. Events take place at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive, or transportation departs from the Montrose Pavilion. Please arrive at each event at least 15 minutes early. For more information on any of the following activities, call 252-4884.

• July 9, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Hike to Exclamation Point on the north rim of Black Canyon. Cost is $20.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

• July 30, 7:10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Colorado Mines and Ghost Towns 4-wheel drive tour takes us up through the interesting Red Mountain Town district and over the beautiful “Skyline Drive” into Silverton for lunch at the Handlebar Café.

Cost is $120.

DENTAL IMPLANT SPECIALISTS Specialist Implant Surgeons with Advanced Training Most experienced implant team in our area Implants for denture stability & implants for individual tooth replacement Do your surgery asleep or awake We work with your general dentist Conventional, Mini & Orthodontic Implants

Line dancing Line dance from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Senior Center.

Meet at 6 p.m. on the third Monday.

Cost is $2. Class is taught by Gilbert Cascante. ■

Delta/ Montrose counties 41

www.montroseoms.com Craig T. Cayo D.D.S., Dorcha W. Boisen D.D.S.

MONTROSE ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 970.240.4485

600 S. Park Avenue

Montrose, CO 81401

Quality Care with a compassionate touch Paonia Care and rehabilitation Center 1625 Meadowbrook blvd • Paonia, Co Hospice • Respite Care • 24 Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Medicare/Medicaid Certified Transportation to & from Appointments • Respiratory Services Available as Needed • Dedicated Rooms for Rehabilitations and Recoveries • Long Term Care and Private Rooms Available • Basic Cable Service Provided to our Clients • All Qualified Insurances Accepted Medicare • Medicaid • HMO • Private • PACE • UMWA • Hospice Respite Care • VA We Accept MC & Visa Credit Cards

970-527-4837 www.PCrC.web.officelive.com

42 Garfield county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Garfield County Calendar Compiled by Cheryl Currier July 10

Playing With Scraps quilting class Join the Anvil Points Quilt Guild with instructor Jan Debolt at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. to learn many methods of making a scrappy quilt using one block. Participants must register in advance and may pick up a supply list at the Rifle Branch Library. Class is free, but is limited to 20 participants.

Please do not wear perfume due to Jan’s use of oxygen. For more information, call the Rifle Branch Library at 625-3471.

July 12

Rifle’s history of uranium and vanadium milling Dr. Kenneth H. William, a geological scientist with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Associate Director of the Rifle Integrated Field

Research Challenge site in Rifle, will give a lecture at 7 p.m. at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave. on the history of uranium and vanadium milling in the Rifle area and research activities exploring the role of natural microorganisms in remediating residual contamination of sediments and groundwater. For more information, contact the Rifle Branch Library at 625-3471.

July 13 & 14

Rifle Air Show The Garfield County Regional Airport in Rifle will be hosting its seventh air show. The theme for this year’s event is “Remembering the Past, Inspiring the Future” and will feature a 1940s aviation genre. Seniors are especially invited to a designated area from noon to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. Transporta-

Do you hate m!sspelled words , m!ssing punctuat!on marks + bad grammer as much ass we do?

Here’s your chance to become a defender of the English language!

Simply read the

, red pen in hand, and point out our slup-ips, I mean slip-ups, to us.

Send in your entries by the end of the month to: Newspaper PO Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 Each mistake you catch will count as one entry. At the end of the month, we’ll draw from the entries and one lucky, eagle eyed, reader will win a gift certificate, T-shirt, cash or something else of value.

July 2012

tion will be provided by the Traveler to and from the air show. To reserve your spot, call 945-9191 ext. 3061 or email Judy at jumartin@garfieldcoun ty.com. At 2 p.m., the Hot Tomatoes, a nine-piece orchestra from Denver will join the Ladies for Liberty, an Andrew’s Sister tribute trio. The grand finale, including the famous wall of fire, will follow the musical tribute.

For more information, visit www. rifleairport.com. This event is free.

June at 7 p.m. Red June is an acoustic trio based in Asheville, North Carolina. They are making waves with their dynamic, yet refined sound, featuring striking three part harmony, tasteful instrumental work and songwriting that seamlessly blends old-time, roots rock and traditional country music.

For more information, contact the Glenwood Springs Branch Library at 845-5958.

July 14

Grand River Classic Car and Motorcycle Days

Riparian Birding with Roaring Fork Audubon Society Join the Roaring Fork Audubon Society at the Ranch at Roaring Fork, 14913 Colorado 82 in Carbondale, to explore some of the best riparian habitats in the entire valley. Linda Vidal will be your guide as you walk along the trails looking for the colorful “regulars” including the Western Wood Pewee, American Kestrel and the more rare migrants. Meet at 7 a.m. at the Ranch office and carpool from there. Bring a lunch, binoculars and appropriate clothing.

RSVP by July 11. Call 704-9950 for information, or email birder@sopris. net. This event is free.

July 19

Star Trails and Light Painting Have you ever wondered how photographers take pictures of the night sky? Local photographer Ashley Mickelson will show you how to take pictures of stars to create star trails. In the event of a cloudy or rainy night, we will learn how to do light painting, which is done with cameras that can keep the shutter open for long stretches of time. Bring your camera and a tripod to practice.

Participants will meet at 9 p.m. at the Silt Branch Library, 600 Home Ave. and walk over to Veterans Park to capture the night sky. This event is free. For more information, call the Silt Branch Library at 876-5500.

July 23

Red June in concert The Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 413 Ninth St. will host Red

July 27-29

The Grand River Classic Car and Motorcycle Days will kick off at 6 p.m. Friday night at Vicco’s Charcoalburger Drive-In, 51659 Hwy 6 & 24 in Glenwood Springs. On Saturday, enjoy the cars downtown from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. On Sunday, the participants will cruise to Silt for the Silt Heydays. Cars will be displayed in Silt from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For a complete schedule of events, visit www. grandriverclassic.com or call Dennis at 945-5971.

July 28 & 29

Silt Hey Days

Say “Hey” to your neighbors in Silt.

This small town celebration includes a parade, lots of local music, dance performances, food and craft vendors. The car show will be from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. All events are held at the park. For more information, visit www.siltchamber.org.

July 30-August 5

Garfield County Fair Head to the fairground in Rifle for the 74th Garfield County Fair and Rodeo. Showcase events include a family rodeo, Jose Torres and the Dancing Stallions, Demolition Derby, Draft horse pull and halter class, 4-H displays, free music, craft and food vendors, and more. Visit www. garfieldcountyfair.com for a complete list of events and entrance fees for the evening shows. ■ If you have an event or photo you would like to have appear in the Beacon, send it to: beacon@pen dantpublishing.com.

July 2012

Centennial Market and Concert Series in Rifle Rifle has combined their Farmers Market with a concert series and centralized the location to Centennial Park at 300 W. Fifth St. The market takes place 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Sunday evenings. Shop for fresh local produce, honeys, jams and an array of crafts and arts. The concert series takes place in the amphitheater. A variety of bands will be playing throughout the summer. This event is free. For more information, visit www.rifleco. org.

Honey Dewdrops return to libraries This folk and old-time duo is characterized by its Appalachian harmonies.

The talented duo of Laura Wortman and Kagey Parrish are releasing their third CD. They have been touring the country over the past four years and have received rave reviews. This event is free. The Honey Dewdrops will perform at the Garfield County Libraries on the following dates and times: • July 16 - Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 7 p.m.

• July 17 – Rifle Branch Library, 6 p.m.

• July 18 – New Castle Branch Library, 7 p.m.

Senior nutrition program Congregate meals are held at seven locations throughout Garfield County at noon. Reservations are important to obtain for an accurate food count.

New participants are welcome.

Those age 60 and older are $2.50.

Guests under the age of 60 are $6.

Anyone attending a meal site must make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance by calling: • Carbondale Senior Housing, Wednesday, 945-9117 • Glenwood Springs (2 locations) - Colorado Mountain College, Tuesday and Friday, 945-9117

- Sunnyside Retirement Center, Monday and Thursday, 945-9234 • New Castle Senior Housing, Monday, 984-2334 • Silt Fire Department, Wednesday, 625-1877 • Rifle Senior Center, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 625-1877

Vol. 32

AUGUst 2010

Confused about Medicare? Let our Medicare counselors help you with your health insurance needs. RSVP Medicare counselors offer one-on-one personalized service for you and your unique situation. Our counselors will meet with you over the phone or in person. This is a free service. Call 384-8744.

Maintenance and Repair Need help with small home repairs and maintenance? RSVP Helping Hands for Seniors volunteers can help with installation of grab bars, replacing light bulbs and fire alarm batteries, simple plumbing issues and minor carpentry. Call 384-8746.

Discover Earth exhibit The Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., was one of 10 libraries in the entire country chosen to host the traveling exhibition, “Discover Earth: A Century of Change.” This interactive exhibit will be in Rifle the entire month of July and through August 17, and will help patrons understand how the earth’s global environment changes and is changed by the local environment and community. Discover Earth is an exhibit of museum quality, featuring interactive multimedia displays such as multi-touch computers, a revolving computerized globe, simulation-based educational games and more. The library will be hosting a number of programs and presentations for all ages on relevant earth science topics. Call 625-3471 for more information. ■

No. 8

Western Colorado’s Month

ly Newspaper for Adults 50+.

the Beacon

Over 28,350 Readers.

Martial Arts for seniors is a great new concept.

See story on page 10.

september 2010

What’s Inside .......... 13 Advice and Ideas ................ .... 30 Classifieds ................................ .... 19 Crossword ................................

27 Delta/Montrose County ................ ............ 18 Fruita ................................ ......... 10 Health & Wellness................

14 .........

Laughing Matters ................ ....... 8 ................ ................

Local Lore . 22 Mesa County................................ ...... 23 River City Singles.................... .............. 26 Theater & Arts ................

Adoptable Love

This old yellow farmhouse once stood on the banks of Lake Lenore. Read more about it’s history inside.

Local Lore From peddling pickles in a wheelbarrow to creating a successful factory, read more about the Kuner-Empson factory inside.

From horses to turtles, take a look at our reader submitted photos.

Long-Term Care e rm Car Long-Te

page 2

Key Questions nursing to ask a home

page 6

Madness

Medicare Medical Home t Users Targets page 7 Equipmen

Beacon’s by the Produced Team Advertising

to Senior Your Guide

Housing

Term Care & Long

at the Web Now on www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Western Colorado’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 28,350 Readers.

Advice and Ideas ............................ 9 Classifieds .................................... 30 Crossword .................................... 26 Delta/Montrose County ................ 27 Fruita ............................................ 17 Laughing Matters ......................... 14 Local Lore ..................................... 10 Mesa County................................. 22 Parks & Recreation ....................... 16 River City Singles.......................... 23 Travel & Recreation ...................... 12

Pets and their people

of Care West A Continuum Health Parlor) at Family Beauty (even a

Vol. 24 No. 9

Learning how to operate firearms correctly can save lives.

Olathe resident, Ron Avery can aim you in the right direction.

Animal Arielle Alstatt, Mesa County more inside. a Joe, Read Services officer, cuddling Little adoption. for waiting male young pit-mix page 4.

See our cover story on What’s Inside

Local Lore

• Parachute Valley Senior Center, Wednesday, 285-7216

High Country RSVP services Medicare

Garfield county 43

Subscribe to

Garfield County Beacon Bits Compiled by Cheryl Currier

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

River Lessons

july 2010

No. 7

Seniors can play rough too. Read more on page 9.

Western Colorado ’s Monthly Newspap

er for Adults 50+

Good Here!

. Over 28,3 50 Rea

ders.

Rita Baughman, right, of Taylor Produce helps Brenda St. John select What’s fresh Palisade Ins ide Peaches.

Advice and Ideas ..........................

19 Classifieds ........... ......................... 34 Crossword ........... ......................... 22 Delta/Montrose County ................

31 Health & Wellness ......................... 10 Laughing Matter s .........................

14 Local Lore ........... ..........................

20 Mesa County........... ...................... 26 River City Singles ..........................

28 Theater & Arts ........... ................... 30

Susan Capps, describes experiences and lessons learned from our beautiful Colorado rivers.

What everyone needs to know about long-term care Read more in this month’s insert.

Vol. 31

Life Tastes

Faux Food !

What started as local artist turne a hobby for this business. Rea d into a full-time d Martin and othe about Jeannie r starting on page local artists 4.

Lake Lenore and the surrounding Lakesid e Community have made their mark in

Jones.

by Karen Photohistory . Read more

on page 20

Health & Wellness ess Health &Welln Health foods that aren’t page 11

Real Men Give Blood page 6 A Bright Future for Senior Daybreak page 3

the Beacon’s Produced by Team Advertising

& Bod y a H eal t hy Mind Your Guid e to

at Now on the Web www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

The artists of the Grand Valley Woodcarvers create masterpieces out of simple blocks of wood. Read more on page 6

What everyone needs to know about your health Read more in this month’s insert.

Photo by Karen Jones. western colorado

Senior Games

western colorado

Aug. 30-Sept. 3

Parks & recreation

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Colorado Senior Games Your Guide to the Western

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Photo by Karen

August 30-Septe

S enior Gam es

See this month’s

insert for complet

mber 3, Lincoln

e details and regi

Mail form with check to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

Jones.

Park

stration form!

name address city

state

zip

phone number credit card

 New subscription  Renew subscription

exp. date

cvc

 1 year $15.00  2 years $25.00

Garfield County Seniors are reading the BEACON. Shouldn’t your ad be here?

Call Jeanette Kiphart for ad rates.

243-8829

44 classifieds

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Help Wanted

Free

sales person wanted The BEACON Senior Newspaper is growing and we’re looking for a sales person to grow with us.

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

Free to a loving senior.

Miss Jeana is an 8 year old, soft, loving Tabby cat. She needs a new home. All she wants is to be close to you whether on your lap or at your side. Indoor or out. Great little companion. Current on shots. Call 462-8004.

Real Estate for Rent Nellie Bechtel Senior Apartments 55 and older, no smoking or pets.

3032 N. 15th St. Call 245-1712 for appointment.

To Place a Classified Ad... 3 easy steps!  Write your ad: ....................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... deadline :

 Wanted to Buy  Real Estate for Sale  Real Estate for Rent

20th of the preceding month

 Classes  Services  Personals

 Events  Work Wanted  For Sale  Help Wanted  Other ..........................................

This ad runs....................months. Starting month.........................

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

 cash

 check

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

 Send it in:

beacon, po box 3895, Grand Junction, Co 81502 fax: 800 536-7516 email: beacon@pendantpublishing.com

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

queStionS? Call Genevra or Jamie M-TH 9am-4pm, 970 243-8829 www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Real Estate for Sale COUNTRY QUIET, CITY CLOSE Immaculate 1,232 sq. ft. ranch style home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Quality built in 1999, like new condition. Priced at $44,900. For more information and to see inside this beautiful home, call 683-0024.

LIQUOR STORE for Sale Turn key operation – All goes. Asking $325K. Naturita, CO. 865-2545.

Home Care PASCO/SW, INC.

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

Please call for courtesy evaluation of your home care needs.

July 2012 Accessibility Services Grab bars. Walk in tubs/showers.

Licensed plumber/handyman.

“Serving Western Colorado since 1989.” Free estimates. Compare and save! 985-1403.

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

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

Avoid costly lAwsuits Slab-jacking can raise sunken concrete. (usually costs 50% less than replacement) FREE estimates

Mays ConstruCtion

Serving: Archuleta, Delta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel

970-245-0834

Cortez (970)565-6833; Durango (970) 247-1211; Montrose (970) 240-1771; Toll Free (877) 685-6833

Lawn and Garden Services

www.pascosw.com

Home Services Professional Tile Installer Insured and bonded. You purchase tile, I provide everything else.

Special discounts. Call Bill for a free estimate. 245-3344.

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 30 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. 242-2443.

Reliable Estate Sales Are you in the midst of a stressful relocation or passing of a loved one?

Let us handle the burden of personal property liquidation from start to finish. Contact Mark Bluhm at 260-2327, cash4@bresnan.net or www.reliableestatesales.net.

A Cut Above Tree Services Proper pruning, storm damage, tree removal. Licensed and insured.

Free estimates. Family owned and operated. 200-3740.

Master Gardener AAA Lawn Care, serving the GJ area for a decade. Sprinkler repairs, landscaping, and lawn maintenance.

Call for spring clean up. 234-1607.

LAWN MAINTENANCE Weekly mowing and trimming.

Sprinkler upkeep. Starting as low as $30 a week. Free estimates. Please call Scott with CS Lawn Solutions 986-9003.

Miscellaneous Services PATTON’S HANDYMAN and LAWN SERVICE Professional, reliable, low rates, free estimates, senior discounts. I will beat anyone’s current price and provide better service! Insured and references available. Call Jeff 208-5929.

July 2012

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Affordable Actions Moving Services “We take care of what you treasure.”

Specializing in loading and unloading rental trucks. Accredited member of the Better Business Bureau. Contact us at 812-7243 or castin365@yahoo. com.

Computer Lady – In home PC Repair Services Friendly, affordable, easy to understand. Computer not-soliterate my specialty! Cleanups, virus removal, setups, upgrades, instruction, wireless and more. Call Mindy at 255-1216 or 261-3120.

Wanted to Buy BUYING COINS AND CURRENCY U.S. Silver Dollars, 90% Silver, Eagles, Krugerrands, Maple Leafs, Gold and Silver Bars, Proof Sets, Mint Sets, Currency, Collections, Hoards, Accumulations of any size. Call 242-5374.

CASH Paid for old Stuff Wind up men’s wrist/pocket watches.

Gold and silver jewelry. Pocket/ hunting knives, antique firearms, fishing gear, toys, BB guns, old Colorado bottles, old motorcycles, radios and amp, railroad, military, mining items. www.cash4oldstuff. net. Mark 260-2327.

Buying old clothing Costume jewelry, purses, sewing patterns and perfumes (pre-1970s).

Call Linda 234-4736 or 1-800-572-7670.

Buying BOOKS Nonfiction, history, nature, westerns, religion, antique, reference, etc. Also buying stamp collections. Call Frank at 241-7778. Will pick up.

For Sale AMERICAN CELTIC SHORT STORIES “Wait for Me,” “Seedy Buns,” “Celtic Kids,” “Heaven’s a Hill,” “The Mining Captain,” and “Ruby’s Rump” by Joe Graham with topic sketches by Susan Weigand (1880-1916). $4 at The Museum of Western Colorado or call 256-0858.

MANTIS Deluxe Tiller NEW! FastStart engine. Ships FREE. One-Year Money-Back Guarantee when you buy DIRECT. Call for the DVD and FREE Good Soil book!

888-703-2715.

Grand Junction Memorial Gardens Two side-by-side cemetery lots.

Garden of Christus. For additional information please contact cali2bound@yahoo.com or call 702-647-1128.

Golf clubs Operation Interdependence was donated a used starter set of golf clubs, bag and 250 practice balls.

Good for anyone of any age wanting to learn to play golf. For a donation you will receive the clubs, bag and balls, plus a tax deduction letter.

For more information or to see, call Karon at 523-4217.

Victoria 10 Scooter Three years old, garaged and not used for the last 18 months. $1,500.

Pride Silver Star hitch lift for scooter. $1,500. Both for $2,500. New two wheel walker $75. Please call 242-2774 for more information.

Four plots at Memorial Gardens All four $3,800/$1,000 each. Plus half transfer. Please call 242-2774.

New lift recliner chair Used 1 month, in perfect condition. $700 OBO. Solid oak entertainment center $300 OBO. Crossrobics exercise machine $400 OBO. Call 243-5138.

Boat for Sale 12 foot aluminum boat, trailer, electric trolling motor package. $900 firm. Call 245-3219.

Meal Menu m onday

2

Egg & Sausage Bake Three Bean Salad Peas And Carrots Orange Wedges Mini Bran Muffin

July 2012

for Delta-Montrose area. Also, writers for Mesa, Delta-Montrose, and Garfield counties. Please send your resume to the BEACON Senior Newspaper at beacon@pendantpublishing.com.

243-9844, ext. 1

tu e sd a y

w e d n e sd a y

th u rsd a y

fridaayy frid

3

4

Baked Potato w/ Broccoli, Cheese & Bacon Bits Tossed Salad Cranberry Gelatin

5

Chicken Fajitas w/Salsa Pinto Beans Peaches

6

CLOSED

Corn Chowder & Fish Sticks Blushing Beet Salad Apricot & Peach Compote Crackers

9

10

11

12

13

16

17

18

19

20

23

24

25

26

27

30

31

Please call Fran at 243-9844 for nutrition questions or for nutrition counseling services.

Chicken Nuggets w/Ranch Sweet Potatoes Tossed Salad Fruit Salad

Egg Salad Sandwich Parsley Potatoes Island Vegetables Pineapple Slices

Baked Ham w/Raisin Sauce Yams Peas & Onions Apricots

Sloppy Joe 3-Bean Salad Corn Orange Yogurt Dessert

Chicken Fried Steak w/Pepper Gravy Mashed Potatoes 4 Way Vegetables Saucy Fruit Salad

Turkey Tetrazzini Chateau Vegetables Jellied Beet Salad Citrus Fruit Mix

Chili Relleno Black Beans Spinach Mandarin Salad Applesauce Berry Gelatin

Crunchy Turkey Hot Dish Brown Rice Island Vegetables Tossed Salad Lime Gelatin w/Pineapple

Beef Ravioli Marinated Carrots Green Beans Strawberry Gelatin Italian Bread

Chef Salad California Vegetable Blend Apricots Crackers

Chicken Fricassee Lima Beans Chuckwagon Veggie Blend Citrus Surprise

Beef Taco Salad Meat Loaf w/Gravy Garden Vegetables Rice Pilaf Orange Wedges Broccoli Blushing Pears

Chicken Pasta Salad Peas & Carrots Fruit Medley Dinner Roll

Beef Lasagna Coleslaw Snap Beans Fruit Compote Italian Bread

Corned Beef Brussel Sprouts Baby Carrots & Potatoes Emerald Isle Fruit Mold Cornmeal Roll Chicken Salad Sandwich Tomato Slices French Onion Veggie Bake Tapioca Pudding

RESERVATION & CANCELLATIONS required at least a business day in advance. If you have not received your meal by 12:45 p.m., call 243-9844 ext.. 1. Hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Help Wanted

Part-time editor needed

Classifieds 45

3251 E Road • Clifton, CO

• Relocate to a Quiet Adult Park • New Homes for Sale and Vacant Lots Available • Incentives for New Move-ins Call Meg at 970-434-6800 email: meg@pictureranchllc.com

NEED GLASS REPAIR? No Job Too Small New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Mirrors • Table Tops • Insulated Glass Shower & Tub Enclosures • Rescreens & New Screens

Same day service on most autoglass

The

Glass Brokerage 970-243-4507

2200 E. Main • Grand Junction • Open 8am - 5pm M-F & 8am - Noon Sat. • All Credit Cards Accepted

46 Kudos & kvetch

kudos \ ku·dos  “I just read in my newsletter from Margaret’s Travel that the BEACON is sponsoring another senior fair in Montrose in September. My husband and I are very excited to go. Last year, we had a free lunch and went to a really good seminar. This year, we plan to come and stay the whole day. Thank you!” - Claudia L., Montrose Kevin: Indeed, Claudia, we are planning an even bigger and better BeaconFest Senior Fair at the Montrose Pavilion on Thursday, September 20.

I just found out that Volunteers of America will again be serving up a great lunch. See you then!  “Thank you so much for spearheading the article on the Mesa County Concert Association. Please tell the writer, Carla Johnson, it was perfect!”

- Wynne B., Grand Junction Cloie: Thank you, Wynne. I’m glad you liked it. Carla is one of our best writers and the Mesa County Concert Association does a great job of providing excellent entertainment throughout the Grand Valley.  “I love the photo on your website (BeaconSeniorNews.com) with all of the people in the rock cubbies. It looks so fun. Where is that?”

- Jodie M., Parachute Kevin: I love that photo, too! It is in Ding-Dang Canyons, Utah. I’ve never been there, but it looks fun. I encourage you to touch base with Doug Van Etten at 433-4312 to see about when they may revisit that area.  “My wife and I wanted to thank Barbara Brewer and the Mesa County Assessor’s office for putting together a very informative meeting regarding the Senior Homestead Exemption.”

- Clarence M., Collbran

Wanna give a shout out? Pass out a compliment? Write us at Beacon@PendantPublishing.com.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

July 2012

Forever gainfully and painfully kvetch \ kfech employed

By John C. Liburdi

A

ll the recent talk about unemployment set me to thinking about that very subject—jobs. Some trades and professions have essentially vanished, others have evolved, and many have left our shores. I’m wondering where does that leave the average American like me?

Admittedly, some jobs have become obsolete. The only chimney sweep I’ve seen lately was in the old “Mary Poppins” musical. Those supercalifragilisticexpialidocious guys are a dying breed now that most everyone has a natural gas or video screen fireplace. I don’t see any further need for the quaint tinker either.

Today’s cheap Teflon pans get tossed in the trash when they wear out. The shade-tree mechanic has vanished, too. Cars have become computer systems riding on four wheels.

You can’t fix them with a monkey wrench.

On the other hand, ambitious entrepreneurs have created some new jobs. That smokin’ hot gal down the street is the perfect example. She must be doing well because I keep seeing different magnetic signs on the side of her van: first was in-home pet sitting, then garage cleaning, etc.

Perhaps she’ll convert that van into a mobile massage parlor as her next moneymaking enterprise.

Then there are the transformed jobs. Our grubby garbage man first morphed into a pristine sanitation worker. Today he’s known as an environmental engineer, which is certainly more prestigious than being a mortgage broker or bank executive. How about the TV repairman who used to make house calls to fix massive console TVs? He abandoned the old glass tubes and his mundane

repairman title to become a sharp electronics technician. Now he’s in the Geek Squad, riding the wave of new technology.

Unfortunately, lots of jobs have been outsourced to countries on the other side of the Pacific. That became evident as I was flirting with my bank’s customer service representative on the phone, a sweet sounding girl who revealed that she’s located in the Philippines, along with all my financial data. Of course, the 1-800 help desks for computer support are always somewhere in and around the New Delhi “Diss is dee desk for elping.” Those friendly chaps are always so nice to me, as though I were the government official who issues immigration visas.

Even some of the jobs that haven’t left our shores have a dubious future.

Midwife was a booming profession, but now it’s in decline because of the recent government mandate to proliferate free birth control. Likewise, proctologists are becoming a bit pessimistic about their future. With the unemployment rate so high, no one is going to tell their boss to “Take this job and shove it.” I was getting set to utter those very words until my retirement nest egg went down the toilet with the stock market and my Social Security benefits became a political piñata.

Apparently, my humble destiny is to continue on as a working stiff right up to the day I become a stiff in the morgue. I do promise to make that transition very quietly so as not to embarrass any career politicians.

After all, their posh jobs shouldn’t be put in jeopardy just because of one average American’s painful saga. ■

 “A question to fellow BEACON readers about tipping: Hooters serves up some great crab legs and beer, but the service is awful. Usually, in the case of poor service, I tip 10 percent, but I feel that because of the uniforms I should tip 20 percent. What do you think?”

- Hap J., Grand Junction Kevin: Well, Hap, I’m not sure what our readers will say, but I’ve heard that many of the Hooters waitresses are working their way through college. That’s admirable. So I say 20 percent.  “I’ll vote for whatever county commissioner candidate is willing to clean up the mess north of I-70. Between the trailers, abandoned cars and go-kart track, it’s developing into a real eyesore.” - Jeanette T., Grand Junction  “I live in Glenwood Springs and most of the services for seniors in Garfield County always seem to be in Rifle.

Why?” - Janet F., Glenwood Springs

 “I heard a local political candidate recently say, ‘Never let the truth get in the way of good legislation.’ Is he crazy, or is this the new way of it?”

- Richard M., Delta  “The Supreme Court is just plain wrong. Obamacare is not a tax. It is a mandated purchase. It is unconstitutional. Where is the justice?”

- Kevin V., Grand Junction

Wanna pitch a fit? Write us at Beacon@PendantPublishing.com.

Serving families in the Grand Valley for over 100 years.

Travel and Recreation As our long overdue summer season approaches, we begin to look for places to travel and have fun.

We at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary are celebrating over 100 years in business. We have cared about and for the families of Western Colorado during the past century and will carry on with the same dedication and service in our second century.

We hope that you will travel with safety and care in mind at all times. NO DRINKING and DRIVING and NO TEXTING and DRIVING at the same time. Use a hands free phone or better yet, none at all. Take a real vacation and forget about talking about everything that’s going on at home.

Remember the “good old days” when a vacation meant that you relaxed and enjoyed being far away from it all!

Have fun and relax. “Life is precious, don’t waste it!”

2515 Patterson Road • Grand Junction, CO 81505

970.243.2450

info@cemgj.com www.callahan-edfast.com

IF

Five great reasons

you live in Mesa

County, you recently received our new publication. So much is happening at St. Mary’s that we thought it was time whole idea is to let you know St. Mary’s has built a true regional medical center by investing in the personnel, facilities and equipment that allow people to get their medical care, even advanced specialty care, close to home and family.

It gives you a glimpse of our doctors— truly experts in their fields; the contents of our toolbox—the technology we provide so your doctor has all treatment options available; and many more than five reasons to choose St. Mary’s.

We hope you’ll keep this publication around for

The experts in their fields

St. Mary’s physi cians are the most highly trained in Western Color ado

What’s in our toolbox?

St. Mary’s provid es physicians with the technology availa best ble

It’s a date!

The summer is full of classes, event s, and support group s

IN YOUR MAILBOX…

to get everyone caught up. The

to choose St. Mary’s Hospital

5

A healing environment

4

Convenient and comfortable outpatient care

3

More than 477 specialist and primary care physicians on staff

2

The most experienced nursing staff

1

Continuity of care

the next time someone asks,

In St. Mary’s Century Project addition, private rooms were designed for comfort, control, and connection to family and friends. The two-year-old addition is designed to separate patients from public areas and behind-the scenes workflow.

The comfortable, modern interior is decorated with the work of outstanding Colorado artists, and our patients can’t stop talking about the view out their window.

Hospitals are busy places, so St. Mary’s provides many outpatient services outside the hospital in buildings conveniently located elsewhere on our campus. The next time you need a blood sample taken or an X-ray or scan, you’ll visit our Advanced Medicine Pavilion where there’s lots of parking, a comfortable waiting area, the most up-to-date technology, and a skilled and friendly staff to get you in and out with ease.

and you can say:

“Yes, St. Mary’s does that!”

Five great reasons to choose St.

Mary’s

970-298-2273 (CARE) 2635 N. 7th Street • P. O. Box 1628 Grand Junction, CO 81502-1628 www.stmarygj.org

St. Mary’s is a regional medical center and that means West Slope residents can get their medical care close to home. To make that happen, St. Mary’s has assembled a huge team of family medicine and specialist physicians, the types of specialists usually found only in large cities.

When it comes down to it, it’s about the skill and compassion of the nurse at the bedside.

All nurses complete extensive training to earn their license to practice, but many of St. Mary’s nurses continue their education with additional training and certification.

We have nurses with advanced training and certification in 15 specialty areas like oncology, critical care, and emergency medicine.

Starting treatment in one facility only to have to transfer to another for more advanced care can result in duplication and delay, and it wastes precious time in your recovery. Getting your care where you can get all of your care—from diagnosis to treatment, through recovery and rehab—means continuity of care. A good example is chest pain. Yes, it could be indigestion. Or it could be a heart attack. You need to be where there are great diagnostics and all care options.