BEACON - March 2013

March 2013

Vol. 26

Create a Legacy LOCAL guide to giving your time

and money

Tillie Bishop’s legacy A servant leader and friend

page 6

Vote for this year’s Volunteer of the Year

Tillie Bishop poses for a photo on his living room sofa while stroking his beloved bichon frise, Buddy.

page 10

Produced by the BEACON’s Advertising Team

Your Local Guide to Giving Your Time & Money

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

No. 3

We all want to leave a lasting legacy. How will you leave yours? Read more in this month’s insert.

What’s Inside Advice and Ideas............................. 9 Classifieds..................................... 44 Crossword..................................... 32 Delta/Montrose County................. 39 Faith Moves................................... 33 Finance.......................................... 30 Garfield County.............................. 42 Health & Wellness.......................... 10 Laughing Matters.......................... 16 Local Lore...................................... 24 Mesa County.................................. 34 Parks & Recreation........................ 22 River City Singles.......................... 35 Travel & Recreation....................... 18

Western Colorado’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 31,920 Readers.

Beat lemania

For baby boomers Marsha Kearns and Karen Kosinski, the music, legend and love of The Beatles lives on across the universe.

Local Lore The railroad was instrumental in western Colorado’s rapid growth. Read more about its history on page 24.

ShareFest Volunteers help their community during ShareFest in April.

See how you can help on page 33.

In land they trust Founders of the Mesa Land Trust decided years ago to preserve the beauty and vitality of our area. Read more on page 6.

Photo by Heidi Graf

2

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Stay Independent, Stay Mobile, In Your Home MORNING STAR ELEVATOR provides Stair Lifts and Wheel Chair Lifts that will help you stay in your home and remain independent. Whether you’re living with a disability, have had an accident or just find the stairs too much to handle, let MORNING STAR ELEVATOR help you make the right choice to stay mobile in your home.

MORNING STAR ELEVATOR offers the highest quality Stair Lifts, most reliable service along with reasonable cost. Our FREE IN-HOME INSPECTION and follow up by our well trained staff and licensed installers is one of the many services we provide. Ask about our stair lift rentals, too.

Please don’t struggle anymore! Stay in your home, stay mobile and stay independent - MORNING STAR ELEVATOR is here to help you.

Call for a FREE In-Home Inspection Western Slope Office 970.384.2212 or

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1.866.635.7960

www.mselevator.com Certified by NAEC and Better Business Bureau  “Building Accessibility Specialists since 1984” – “Dedicated to Quality”

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Editorial 3

An embarrassing confession

By Kevin K. VanGundy

A

fter a disastrous first year at the University of Arizona, I moved back home to Grand Junction. For as long as I can reasonably remember, I had aspired to a career in politics, so I began getting involved in the local party. As I made my way, many suggested that I meet with Tillie Bishop, who was then a state senator.

Graciously, Tillie agreed to have lunch with me. He admonished me about how being a successful elected official is more about being in service to the people than about obtaining personal glory. Mostly, sadly, embarrassingly, I was thinking about how the “poor guy” was likely to never rise above his current and longstanding position as a state senator. In my mind his career had peaked. Surely, I would be more successful than that, I thought to myself.

If only I’d known then what I know now, I would have realized that Tillie was giving me great advice. I didn’t “get” his notion of “servant leadership.” I didn’t take his advice, much to the detriment of my political career, as I have never won an election.

Tillie Bishop exemplifies what a politician should be: a servant to the people and a friend to most. I was right on one thing: Tillie would never go on to a “higher” national office.

Some could rightfully dispute the use of the word “higher” and argue that a move to Washington would have been a step down, but it is a bit of a shame as I feel confident that if we had more leaders like Tillie in Con-

gress, our nation would not be in the sad state of affairs that it is now.

Tillie Bishop has certainly created quite a legacy. You can read more about his inspiring story in this month’s special publication, “Create A Legacy: a local guide to giving your time and money.” What will your legacy be?

BeaconFest is April 18 Make plans to attend the largest senior fair in the state of Colorado.

Our Grand Junction BeaconFest will be from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at the Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main Street.

Volunteer of the Year The cover of the May issue of the BEACON will feature the winner of the Volunteer of the Year Award. We have 20 candidates vying for this year’s trophy. The winner will be based on your votes. As one of my democrat friends said, “Remember to vote early and vote often!”

Summer travel plans?

Where will you visit this summer?

Whatever your flavor of travel, we’ll have you covered in June’s Summer Travel insert. We’d like to include some of your old photos. Please include, if possible, the names of those in the photo, when it was taken and a little about where you were going.

Email your photos to: Beacon@PedantPublishing.com or mail them to: BEACON Senior Newspaper P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 ■

n The family of harvey Gorby m wishes to thank all his wonderful Friends and Loved Ones for: Coming to his memorial (on a Cold winter day) Joining the wake at naggy mCgee’s and the Blue moon a ll moving, wonderful Cards, gifts and flowers, hugs, tears and laughter we know he was so pleased and humBled, as was his family. they meant everything to us.

We Can Help with the Hard Conversations

AL & MEDICEDICAL M N NO ARE C

Helping you navigate the complex issues of aging at home

Our Geriatric Care Managers have become an indispensable and critical first step in helping people face the complex issues of aging. They provide in-depth assessments, home safety evaluations, service coordination, and ongoing monitoring for seniors and their caregivers.

Care Managers are adept at building personal relationships with clients and can even serve as a neutral third party in situations where the wishes of the client seem to contradict the concerns of a family member.

Other unique non-medical home care services available including: Personal care. Companionship services. Downsizing and relocation.

Handyman services. Housekeeping. Home electronics and computer.

All caregivers are screened and insured.

we know h arvey was laughing and Crying with us. l ift a Bud to him and smile. he’ll always Be here.

 Beer30 Signing Off 

(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

4 Cover Story

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

The band that changed everything seeing the houses and on’t blink! Fifty places The years go by faster Beatles than you think. lived, In 1963, the most played, famous, popular, and sucand worked cessful rock-n-roll band in as kids and as history was ready to test a band.”

American musical waters.

The master’s program The Beatles—John, Paul, is two semesters, focusGeorge, and Ringo—had ing on The Beatles’ coalesced into a magical, compositions, their musical entity that, tounique sound, and their gether and solo, changed impact on society and the world…and still does. pop culture. In addiThe Beatles released tion, students learned their first song in Amerthe history of Liverpool ica in February 1963. It and were encouraged was a 7-inch, 45 RPM vinyl disc with the A side Karen Kosinski in front of John Lennon’s childhood home in Liverpool, England. to study other musical genres and musicians. of “Please Please Me” and intended, after key U.S. radio sta“I learned to listen to music in a B side of “Ask Me Why.” The release tions began airing the British version whole new way,” Kosinski said. “It’s was on the VJ label. Capitol Records of the songs.

“I Want to Hold Your amazing the way the band, primarily initially refused to release any Beatles Hand” was the group’s first number 1 Lennon and McCartney, wrote torecords, in spite of the insistence of hit in America. gether, and alone, and then put it all its parent company, EMI, The Beatles’ together to create timeless songs.”

British record label. VJ’s half-hearted Mastering The Beatles Kosinski’s professional designation promotional efforts may be the reaThe allure of The Beatles has not is popular music specialist, specializson that “Please Please Me” peaked at diminished in half a century. In 2009, ing in The Beatles. In particular, she number 35 on the charts. (In fact, ini- Liverpool Hope University began ofwas fascinated by and studied the tial pressings of the single misspelled fering a Master of Arts degree in The impact of The Beatles upon culture, the group’s name as “The Beattles.”)

Beatles, Popular Music and Society. society, and especially, the fans.

Instant hit? Screaming fans? Not on From around the world, only 12 Delving into The Beatles’ history your life. applicants were accepted in 2010. naturally led to the band’s blues roots At that time, our nation was headed Kosinski, age 60, was one of them. and inevitably, for Kosinski, specififor very dark days. In November of “I was so excited, I screamed,” cally to Elvis Presley. She was struck that year, President John F. Kennedy Kosinski said. “I had dreamed of livby the similarities between Presley was assassinated. The entire country ing in England. I spent 18 months in and Lennon as iconic, even —indeed, the world—was in shock.

Liverpool walking the same streets godlike, figures. Her postStill, rock-n-roll will never die.

The Beatles walked and master’s plans include “I think Walter Cronkite should writing a book on the get partial credit for launching The significance of and paralBeatles in America,” Grand Junction lels in the lives of these resident Karen Kosinski, who has a two enigmatic men. The Master of Arts in The Beatles, said. working title is “Icon: John Lennon’s “Cronkite wanted to bring us out of Rise to Sainthood.” the depression caused by the Ken“It won’t be another ‘history of nedy assassination.”

Lennon book’ or a biography,” KosinOn December 10, 1963, the CBS ski said. “My book will take a unique Evening News with Cronkite aired a point of view and investigate the segment about The Beatles. The first creation of a human icon. The fans Capitol Records release, “I Want To and the media have made John LenHold Your Hand/I Saw Her Standnon into something he wouldn’t have ing There,” was December 26, 1963, even wanted.” three weeks earlier than originally Kearns’ collection of Beatles wallet cards.

By Marsha Kearns

D Are you a true Beatles fan?

Here’s your chance to show us what you know about The Beatles. Answer the questions below and include your name and phone number. Send your answers to: BEACON Senior Newspaper, P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 by March 20. We will tally the number of correct answers and the highest scorers will be entered into a prize drawing.

1. The Beatles’ third and last appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” was broadcast from what city?

2. John Lennon and Paul McCartney

first met at a church social where John’s group was playing. What was the name of the group?

3. Name the record label made famous

for turning down The Beatles.

4. What is Paul McCartney’s real first name?

5. What was the title of George Harrison’s first song to be included on a Beatles record?

6. Who was the song “Sexy Sadie” named for?

7. What group did Ringo Starr play in prior to joining The Beatles?

8. The Beatles first appeared on a major record label as a backup band to what English pop singer?

9. “Scrambled Eggs” was the working title to what Beatles song?

10. Who was The Beatles’ first drummer?

11. What Beatles song was inspired by a

drawing by John’s son, Julian?

12. The last American Beatles concert took place in what city?

Bonus Question: No score, but we will tally the answers and let you know the winner in April’s BEACON, along with the winner of the contest.

Q. Who is your favorite Beatle?

Quiz compiled by Jim Kearns

March 2013 We still love them—yeah, yeah, yeah!

Today, kids and grandkids of the ’60s generation embrace The Beatles and their timeless music as eagerly as we did. Too bad they can only experience from film and radio clips the unprecedented energy, excitement, and euphoria the band created.

The reality of living through The Beatles’ short, but highly productive, period of magical musical tours, the big break-up, the murder of John Lennon, and the death of George Harrison has been life changing for many, especially for those who saw the band play live. Lucky me.

The fuse was lit in 1963, but the fireworks really exploded exactly a year later, in February 1964, fueled by that fan-flamed frenzy called Beatlemania.

“Well, I had just turned 14 You know what I mean And the way I felt Was way beyond compare.”

I was in love for the first time with four longhaired lads from Liverpool. Me and a million other girls…and boys. The four were cute, funny, magnetic, and they moved you to cry, to laugh, and, well, to move.

Starting with their two appearances on the “Ed Sullivan Show,” the Fab Four turned lives upside down through their music, charm, wit, pure talent, and energy. My whole family watched them on TV both times, along with most of America and the rest of the world.

My parents apparently noticed my infatuation. Maybe they weren’t as out of it as I thought at age 14.

Anyway, I got the mumps that spring, and Dad (per Mom’s strong suggestion) came home one night with a miracle in his hands to make me feel better. He presented me with two vinyl LP discs—“Introducing the Beatles” and “Meet the Beatles.” Did that cheer me up? Boy, howdy! Life at our house was never the same. It was all Beatles, all the time, on our little record player.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com I collected everything Beatles I could, from bubble gum cards to bobble-head dolls to “Saturday Evening Post” magazines. When the usual rash of tornadoes threatened our Missouri home, I always grabbed my Beatles stuff before I headed for the basement.

The band was on tour that year, taking America by storm, and they had a grueling schedule. Their cherished days off were few and far between. Kansas City was not on their tour list. Enter Charlie Finley, controversial owner of the Kansas City Athletics baseball team. He was in trouble with baseball fans and he needed a boost.

After much negotiation, Finley finally offered The Beatles’ manager, Brian Epstein, an incredible $150,000—the highest sum in history at that time for a single performance—to bring The Beatles to Municipal Stadium on one of their days off. Over the protests of the band, Epstein agreed to the price and convinced the lads to do the gig.

The Beatles are coming!

Would the magic never end?

Dad came home one night with four tickets to the concert. Not only that, they were lower-deck box seats that cost an astounding $6.50 apiece. I was going to see The Beatles!

On September 17, Dad drove four hyper kids 35 miles from Lone Jack to downtown Kansas City and dropped off my younger brothers, my best friend Jill and me into a teeming crowd of teen spirit. Our seats were right behind home plate, and even though the stage was far out on second base, we were front and center in heaven.

When the suited-up group ran grinning and waving across the grassy stadium and onto the stage, my screams joined 20,279 others.

Official accounts of the concert say there were opening bands.

They say there was a delay when the band stopped

playing because the fans got rowdy.

I don’t remember any of that. I only remember balancing on the arms of our seats to get a better view for the whole 32 minutes they played. I remember the sound and the fury of all the feelings.

Here’s an understatement: it was unbelievably great and life-altering for a teenager.

Dad had sat out on the sidewalk with cab drivers and other dads waiting for kids to emerge so they could take them home safely. Forever afterward, whenever the concert came up in conversation, he would laugh and shake his head and say, “I never heard a sound like that before or since in my life.”

He meant the crowd, of course, but the unique sound was the music of The Beatles. That band changed everything, as their continuing evolution as men and musicians affected not only individuals, but also the entire American culture.

The music, the legend, and the love live on across the universe. I still play my first Beatles vinyl albums, ecstatically singing over the scratches and happily dancing right back to 1964.

And in the end Incredibly, after conquering America, the band only toured for two more years, from 1964–1966. They couldn’t hear each other on stage, their touring accommodations were often poor, and the schedule was brutal. They were weary and often feared for their personal safety.

“The Beatles was the first band to ever be forced from touring by their own fans,” Kosinski said.

Of course, the music didn’t stop when the touring did. Together and individually, The Beatles continue to create some of the most innovative and memorable music ever heard.

Kosinski brings her perspective and experiences through presentations and Q&A sessions at various venues throughout the Grand Valley. You can reach her at 712-2755 or beatlesmama60@gmail. com. ■

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.....................................Anouk Olson Advertising Sales.........................Sue Bowen Advertising Sales................. Linda Lovendahl Advertising Sales................. Michelle Hooper 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 2013 • All Rights Reserved

Cover Photo BEACON writer Marsha Kearns, left, and Karen Kosinski, right, show off Kearns’ Beatles record collection. In 2010, Kosinski was accepted into a Master of Arts program, which specialized in The Beatles’ music and the impact it had on the world.

6 Feature Story

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

In land they trust The founders of the Mesa County Land Conservancy.

Cryptic Graffiti of Wind is a conserved ranch on Glade Park. Photo by Malcolm Childers.

By Terri Benson

B

ack in 1980, the Grand Valley was in the midst of the oil shale boom. Families were pouring into the area and houses and commercial buildings were going up everywhere.

It was at that time that a group of forward-thinking people got together and made a decision that changed not only their lives, but will continue to impact every generation that follows.

This group of people, consisting of John and Dorris Butler, Harry and Bonnie Talbott, Ivan and Jane Wood, Mike and Blakely Mechau, and Blaine Derrick, decided they wanted to preserve what they loved most, according to Mesa Land Trust Executive Director Rob Blieberg.

“They wanted to make sure the beautiful orchards and agricultural land in the Palisade area weren’t built over with never-ending residential subdivisions and commercial projects,” Blieberg said. “A friend at Mesa State College, Dr. Ted Albers, suggested they attend a workshop in Denver put on by the Trust for Public Land, a national organization that provided consultation and guidance on starting a land trust. It was a concept in its infancy at the time.”

So the Mesa County Land Con-

servancy was born—the third such program in the entire country.

There are currently 1,800 land trusts nationwide. The Mesa Land Trust, as it’s known today, has continued to further and expand the original intent—protecting agricultural lands, wildlife habitat, and open space in and around Mesa County to benefit the community at large.

Bleiberg credits the “level of dedication and planning of the original board, their wide range of life experiences, and concern for the community’s quality of life for bringing the trust to fruition.” Those original founders of the trust started a rock rolling that has become an avalanche of effort, resulting in more than 64,000 acres of land being preserved as of December 2012. That’s more than 100 square miles.

Parcels range from as small as 10 acres of prime orchard to 11,000 acres on Piñon Mesa, and more than 175 land owners have participated.

While most of the trust lands have been in Mesa County, there have been some in eastern Utah, the Roaring Fork area, west Montrose County, and down near Ridgway.

“Some of the properties are signed,” Bleiberg said, “particularly those on East Orchard Mesa. Over

time, those areas will be clearly noticeable as the conserved parcels are linked and grow.”

Between 2011 and 2012, the trust worked on 11 projects, conserving over 1,200 acres with a total easement value of nearly $5 million. Six properties were donated. The other five involved grants for purchase.

The trust has grown to a volunteer board of 16 members, all required to work at least eight hours per month on trust business.

“Many of these members have seen what happens in other areas, when cities literally grew together, and that’s why they make this effort,” Bleiberg said.

There are also six paid staff, who work tirelessly alongside many other volunteers including attorneys, business owners, agricultural businesses, interested citizens, retirees, real estate specialists and accountants.

There are more than 700 members of the trust who contribute to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit. An annual fundraiser helps cover operation costs.

Mesa Land Trust partners with landowners who have property of extreme scenic beauty; or which has riparian habitat, endangered species (plant or animal), agricultural history and future potential (irrigated, good

soils and productive); provides a buffer zone between development and a public property such as the Colorado National Monument or other towns; can help connect existing trail systems, or can otherwise contribute to the community’s quality of life.

“The landscape defines the Grand Valley, and while growth and evolution are inevitable, our area and quality of life is far richer for the founders [of the trust] having moved forward,” Bleiberg said.

In most cases the landowners approach the trust, but on rare occasions the trust will mount a capital campaign to raise funds to purchase a property outright, as was recently done for the scenic Three Sisters area near the Colorado National Monument. When the property was put up for sale, the trust recognized that it was perfectly suited for preservation as a public use area in conjunction with the many hiking and biking trails and the Tabeguache Trail. The trust approached the sellers, asking them for a long-term contract to allow time for fundraising, low earnest money due to restricted funds, and arranged for an appraisal, all typical requirements on projects that are outright purchases. The Three Sisters required raising $1.6 million to pur-

March 2013 chase the property, which was then donated to the City to be used as public open space park. The money was raised, for the most part, from $10 to $5,000 donations from local individuals and businesses, along with service clubs, the City of Grand Junction, The Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association, the Bureau of Land Management, and the sellers themselves.

For the landowner, there are a variety of reasons to put their land in trust. Most, like the founders, want to preserve the land in perpetuity in its pristine or productive state. There can be some financial benefits with regard to tax incentives and estate planning, and the owners still retain complete ownership. Placing the property in trust does not mean it’s open to public use. It does prevent subdividing, or residential, commercial or industrial use of the property (except agriculture use). There are four family farms that have utilized conservation easements, which between them represent 10 generations of fruit growers.

The trust works closely with the landowner to make sure they fully understand the ramifications and that this is a permanent easement.

“It’s important that all the landowners of a property, and sometimes their immediate family, make sure they are in agreement that a conservation easement is in the best interest of the property,” Bleiberg said.

The landowner may be able to generate cash through state funding and a transferable tax credit. This can allow family members to continue to live on the property longer than they might otherwise be able to. Or it may provide cash for part of the family to pursue other lifestyles while those who wish can continue to use the land. It can also provide funds to reinvest in the business, provide capital to young farmers and stabilize the land base.

Fruitlands Forever is a trust project tasked with protecting a total of 1,000 acres of fruit orchards. This is the acreage research deemed necessary to sustain a viable fruit industry in the eastern Grand Valley, support-

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com ing the packing sheds, supply businesses and an adequate workforce. So far, 722 acres have been conserved.

In addition, more than eight miles of riverfront on the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers, and two-thirds of the limited irrigated land on Glade Park are protected with easements.

A conservation easement is a land protection tool. The landowner determines the development restrictions and retains all other rights to the property. The easement is permanent and remains with the land in perpetuity, whether the land is sold, bequeathed, leased or gifted.

Most landowners retain the right to build a limited number of houses for their family’s future needs or for future financial considerations. The easements can be flexible enough to accommodate most landowner needs as long as the conservation values are protected. Because the easement represents value given up by the landowner, they might receive a federal income tax deduction. Estate taxes are often reduced, allowing the property to remain with the family rather than being sold to pay taxes. There are few drawbacks, but the easements are permanent and will limit opportunities for future landowners to develop, divide or subdivide the land. Other options exist to protect land and the trust will work with the landowner to help determine which option best suits their situation.

Landowners can also utilize planned giving to place land in conservation as part of their estate planning.

“Funding for the trust comes from many sources,” Blieberg said. “Lottery money via Great Outdoors Colorado; Mesa County; the cities of Grand Junction, Palisade and Fruita; local groups; Conservation Fund Trust Dollars; Parks and Open Space; Wildlife programs and the USDA/ Natural Resources Conservation Services. Not to mention individuals and businesses.”

Anyone interested in contributing funds or volunteering time to the trust, or in placing a conservation easement on their property, can visit www.mesalandtrust.org or call 263-5443. ■

Feature story 7

Leave a bright future for your grandchildren Solar for every budget > Choices for every homeowner > Buy, lease, and finance options > Xcel rebates are ending soon > $0 lease downpayment

Solar power has never been easier.

(970) 241.0209 569 S. Westgate Drive #4 Grand Junction, CO 81505 www.highnoonsolar.com

8

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Irish Blue Cheese

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

Early DinE for c ho o se f rom

11 dinners

$2.25 domestic pints $3.25 premium pints

Original rOcks

Fondue

8 oz Cashel blue cheese, crumbled 1/4 c all-purpose flour 1/8 t cayenne pepper 1/2 t dry mustard 3/4 c Irish lager, preferably Kells brand 1/2 c half-and-half Coarse salt Sliced apples, for serving Bread cubes, for serving Steamed broccoli, for serving Red and yellow peppers, for serving

Place lager and half-and-half in a fondue pot over medium-high heat; stir to combine. Bring liquid to a simmer and slowly stir in cheese mixture; continue stirring until cheese is completely melted. Season with salt. Serve immediately with apples, bread, broccoli, and peppers.

7 days a Week

Little Lemon

3

$

Serves 4

In a medium bowl toss blue cheese, flour, cayenne and dry mustard together; set aside.

Happy Hour 4-6

March 2013

Serves 8

99

Souffles

8 large lemons, preferably Meyer 3 large eggs, separated 1/2 c granulated sugar 2 T all-purpose flour Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

our original margaritas have three tequilas and are specially blended with our signature sweet and sour, orange juice and agave nectar.

Call ahead seating 243-5700

18 oz.

2870 North Avenue

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Trim tip end so lemon sits level. Cut stem end one-third of the way down, making cut parallel with bottom; reserve top. Repeat with remaining lemons.

Hold a lemon above a sieve set on a bowl, and scoop out the pulp. Squeeze the juice from the pulp, and reserve. Repeat with all lemons. Place shells on baking sheet.

TACO Tuesday

R

Crispy Tacos

ALL DAY, EVERY TUESDAY AT 1300 E. MAIN ST., MONTROSE

Combine egg yolks, 1/4 c granulated sugar, 1/4 c reserved lemon juice, and flour in the heat-proof bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat mixture on medium speed until pale yellow, about 3 min. Place bowl over a pan of simmering water; whisk constantly until very thick, about 8 min. Remove bowl from heat, and return to mixer. Beat on medium speed until cool, about 10 min. Transfer to a medium bowl, and set aside.

Combine egg whites and remaining 1/4 c granulated sugar in clean mixer bowl.

Place the bowl over the pan of simmering water, and stir until sugar has dissolved and mixture is warm to the touch. Remove bowl from heat, and return to mixer; beat on low speed until frothy. Gradually increase speed until meringue is shiny and holds soft peaks, 2 to 3 min., being careful not to overbeat.

Whisk 1/3 of the meringue into the yolk mixture. Gently fold in the remaining meringue. Carefully fill the prepared lemon shells to just below the rims.

Transfer baking sheet to oven, and bake until meringue is slightly golden and rises about 1 in. above the shell, about 14 min. Remove from oven, and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with the reserved lemon tops, and dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve immediately.

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Advice & ideas 9

Ask the Old Bag Advice Column for the Over 50 Crowd

By Gayle LagmanCreswick Dear Old Bag: I enjoy your column and was happy that you were a proponent for women paying their own way on dates, or at least offering to share the high cost of entertainment. Yes, we wanted equality, which means pay for your own! I would like you to take on another challenging issue: I am a 62-year-old Latina woman, single by choice, who is sick and tired of people thinking (more like emoting) that I am single in order to chase their men. I am single because my sister was heavily abused for many years until he murdered her. I am single because I lost the love of my life when I was 25 and never met anyone else I could find so easy to love. Getting my education while working full time intervened, and there was little time to date. I am also single because I became tired of men who dated me, seeming that they only wanted me to cook, maid, and to be a sex object.

It gets really old to have gossipers pointing the finger at me because I am independent and go many places alone. Frankly, I have high standards and wouldn’t want most of the men available at my age, let alone anyone’s husband.

I am not denying that I would love to have a loving, decent, intelligent, and warm companion. Not all single women are out there just to chase men. The best advice I could offer anyone is: don’t jump in too soon, and then have it blow up in your face. Respect yourself if you want a man or woman to respect you back.

Signed, Peace On My Own Dear Peace On My Own: Wow, I am glad you got that off your chest. It appears you must have had a bad experience with some married women. I was single for 20 years and

was lucky that my girlfriends and their husbands adopted me to go along with them on many occasions. None of their husbands offered themselves to me and I am sure it was never on their minds. You did not say how many friends you have. I spent my 20 years single enjoying all my friends. There were married men (not the husbands of my friends) who approached me, and I told them to go home to their wives. Part of me says that you may be too picky. The other part of me says you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince. You should also keep in mind that women who have wandering husbands often keep a tight rein on them. And like any good watchdog, they will bark when you get too close. O.B. Dear Old Bag: Where could I get a copy of the “Old Bag Rules for Casual Dating for the Over 50 Crowd?�

Signed, Girlfriend Disagrees

BEAT

THE

CLOCK

The time you are seated is the price you pay per person, not including tax, gratuity or drinks.

!"#$%&'!()*!&+$%,-&,.%!

4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday nights

Must be 55 years of age or older Buffet is also available for those not 55+ at $10.95 per person

Buffet menu changes weekly

DoubleTree by Hilton

Grand Junction 743 Horizon Dr. Grand Junction, CO 81506 970-241-8888

Dear Disagrees: Since I have had several request them, I will repeat them next month. However, the rules are meant for casual dating. If she is your girlfriend, I do not call that casual. It should then be a mutual agreement between the two of you.

Good luck.

Dear Old Bag: I am fed up about reading about the glut of sexual activity among single seniors. Now they say that AIDS is on the increase in the elderly. Have we lost our marbles? It is embarrassing to me that people our age (I am 60) have to act like rabbits. Signed, Fed Up Dear Fed Up: It is important to get the word out to all seniors that just because you can’t get pregnant, doesn’t mean you cannot contract a venereal disease or AIDS. We are told to talk to our kids about having responsible sex. The same goes for the over 50 crowd. O.B. â–

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

COUPON

Buy One Breakfast - Get Second One of equal or with this lesser value at Half Price coupon Breakfast: Mon-Fri 7 am - 11 am Sat 7 am - Noon Sun 7 am - 1 pm

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11 am - 1:45 pm Dinner: Mon-Fri 4 pm - 10 pm Not good with any other discounts. Expires 03/31/2013

We are located in the Clarion Inn 755 Horizon Drive • Grand Junction, CO

(970) 255-0000 www.pantusos.com

10 Health & wellness

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

The Healthy Geezer

By Fred Cicetti Part 2 of 3

M

• 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...

19 Years of Serving You!

2490 Patterson #5 Grand Junction, CO

244-8983

Please choose Mountain Aire Medical Supply

y first column on back pain was about causes. This one is about prevention.

One of the best things you can do to prevent back pain is to exercise regularly and keep your back and abdominal muscles strong. A program of regular low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or riding a bike— mobile or stationary— will be beneficial.

Yoga can also help stretch and strengthen muscles and improve posture. Ask your doctor for a list of exercises appropriate for your age and physical condition.

Here are some quick pointers to prevent back problems: • Always stretch before any strenuous physical activity.

• Don’t slouch when standing or sitting. When standing, keep your weight balanced on your feet. Curvature of the spine puts stress on back muscles.

• Sit in chairs or car seats with good lumbar support. Switch sitting positions often and periodically walk around or gently stretch muscles to relieve tension.

• Don’t bend over without supporting your back. For example, don’t lean over a low sink without bracing yourself with your hand. Also, don’t reach and lift an object out of a car trunk. First, slide the object to the edge of the trunk.

• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.

• Sleep on your side to reduce any curve in your spine. Always sleep on a firm surface.

• Don’t try to lift objects too heavy for you. Lift with your legs, keeping your back straight. Keep the object close to your body. Do not twist when lifting.

• Try to control your weight, especially weight around the waistline that taxes lower back muscles.

• If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes the spinal discs to degenerate.

• To keep your spine strong, as with all bones, you need to get enough calcium and vitamin D every day. These nutrients help prevent osteoporosis, which is responsible for a lot of the bone fractures that lead to back pain.

Calcium is found in dairy products; green, leafy vegetables; and fortified products, like orange juice. Your skin makes vitamin D when you are in the sun. If you are not outside much, you can obtain vitamin D from your diet. Almost all milk and some other foods are fortified with this nutrient.

Most adults don’t get enough calcium and vitamin D, so talk to your doctor about how much you need per day.

In most cases, it is not necessary to see a doctor for back pain because pain usually goes away with or without treatment. However, a trip to the doctor is a good idea if your pain is severe and doesn’t improve, or if you have pain after a fall or an injury.

It is important to see your doctor if you have pain along with any of the following problems: trouble urinating; weakness, pain or numbness in your legs; fever; or unintentional weight loss. Such symptoms could signal a serious problem that requires treatment. ■

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.

March 2013

Health & wellness 11

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Coping with arthritis

By Tait Trussell

S

nake venom is not recommended for arthritis. At least not by the National Institute on Aging. Neither are those copper bracelets you see some people wearing.

Almost anyone who is in the category of a Medicare beneficiary has arthritis. If you don’t, you undoubtedly will eventually.

“Arthritis is one of the most common diseases in the United States.

Older people most often have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or gout,” according to the National Institute on Aging.

Osteoarthritis is most common in seniors. It begins to make your acquaintance when the cartilage, the tissue that pads bones in a joint, begins to wear away.

When this happens, you wish that you hadn’t been a jogger when you were younger. But it’s not confined to the knees, of course. Arthritis pain can occur in the neck, hands, lower back, and hips.

Symptoms range from stiffness to mild pain to worse pain that just won’t go away. There are means of relief, however, which you may have found. If not, I’ll list a few later.

Rheumatoid arthritis, as contrasted with osteoarthritis, is a kind of disease that makes the body attack itself. It causes stiffness, pain and swelling and can affect many locations at the same time. You can even run a fever with it. Women are victims more often than men.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause heart problems, troubles with your muscles and nervous system, even your eyes.

Gout is quite painful. It occurs most often in the big toe. It usually becomes red or purple and quite

tender. Eating liver, dried beans, peas and anchovies can lead to a gout attack, as can certain blood pressure medicines.

Some medicines can help with arthritis. Acetaminophen is one.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another. But beware of their side effects.

Using a cane when walking can ease the pain in the knees and hips.

But the National Institute on Aging says to “make sure the cane is fitted by a professional. Don’t just borrow one from a friend.” Professional cane fitters are not prevalent. But your doctor might help.

Daily exercise, such as walking or swimming can help. It makes the muscles around the joints stronger.

Three types of exercise are suggested: strengthening exercises, such as weight training; aerobic exercises, such as bike riding and dancing were recommended. (I picture myself when I was in the Navy in World War II when I won a jitterbug contest at a USO. Those days are gone forever.)

The institute has created a Go4Life campaign to help you start a safe exercise program. You can learn about it by going to go4life.nia.nih.gov.

Acupuncture may help some people. Glucosamine and chondroitin may help, but they “seem to have no effect on changes to cartilage in the knee,” according to the National Institute on Aging.

Work with your doctor to safely lessen the pain and stiffness. Or contact the American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals at www. rheumatology.org, or the Arthritis Foundation at www.arthritis.org. ■

Almost anyone who is in the category of a Medicare beneficiary has arthritis. If you don’t, you undoubtedly will eventually.

“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

12 Health & wellness

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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 • • • • •

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

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

Af for dable

Hearing Aids Providing the BEST hearing help for over 21 years.

Your satisfaction is totally guaranteed.

Your Exclusive Provider of American-Made

241 Grand Ave. #1 Grand Junction

243-1990

144 Eaton Ave. Delta

874-4910

March 2013

How to prevent foodborne illness

By SueAnn Carpenter

A

ccording to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), roughly one in six people in the U.S. gets sick each year from eating contaminated food. The familiar culprits are Salmonella, E. coli and other common germs. Because the symptoms are flu-like (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or fever), many people don’t recognize that their illness is caused by harmful bacteria or other pathogens in food.

Everyone is at risk for getting a foodborne illness, but some can experience a more serious illness or even death: infants, young children, pregnant women and their unborn babies, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, and transplant patients). Some people become ill after ingesting only a few harmful bacteria, while others remain symptom-free after ingesting thousands.

Be cautious about the food you buy, prepare, serve and eat. Bacteria are naturally present in our environment and not all cause disease. But microorganisms that cause disease are called pathogens. When these enter the food supply, they cause foodborne illness. They may even be present on food when you purchase it: raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs are not sterile, nor is fresh produce such as lettuce, tomatoes, sprouts and melons. These foods, whether raw or safely cooked, can become cross contaminated with pathogens or from food handlers with poor hygiene.

Most foodborne illness can be prevented with proper cooking or processing to destroy pathogens.

Because bacteria multiply rapidly between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F (the “danger zone”), it’s vital to keep cold food cold and hot food hot. To ensure safety when cooking, use a meat thermometer for internal recommended temperatures for various meats. Maintain hot cooked food at 140 degrees F or above, and when reheating cooked food, get the

temperature up to 165 degrees F. If you think you have a foodborne illness, save a portion of the suspect food, wrap it securely, mark “DANGER” and freeze it. Save all the packaging materials, such as cans or cartons. Write down the food type, the date, other identifying marks on the package, the time consumed, and when the onset of symptoms occurred. Save any identical unopened products.

Call your doctor if symptoms persist or are severe (such as bloody diarrhea, excessive nausea and vomiting, or high temperature). Call and notify the establishment serving or selling the food. Call the local health department if the suspect food was served at a large gathering, from a restaurant or other food service facility, or if it is a commercial product.

Call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-6746854) if the suspect food is a USDAinspected product and you have all the packaging.

When shopping, get your nonperishable food first. Items from fridges and freezers or hot food should be picked up just before you return home. If it takes longer than 30 minutes to return home, put chilled or frozen foods into an insulated bag to keep them cool.

Check whether the skin on the produce is intact. Is it free of unusual odors? If prepackaged, inspect the wrapping for damage that could allow poisonous bacteria to enter.

Check the expiration date. If you prefer a reusable shopping bag or plastic bin, disinfect and wash it with hot soapy water frequently. Carry meat and fish separately so they don’t contaminate other food.

But unsafe food can occur in your own kitchen. Don’t prepare food for others if you have diarrhea or vomiting. Hands spread the majority of common infectious diseases like the common cold and flu. So wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating, after using the toilet, and when you prepare a meal.

March 2013 Make sure cutting boards, utensils and countertops are clean and disinfected before handling any food.

Sponges and dishcloths in the kitchen have been found to be contaminated with the most fecal bacteria. Change dishcloths frequently and use hot soapy water or disinfectant to clean kitchen surfaces. Before produce is sold, it may have been contaminated by unclean water, animals, fecal matter, etc. So before you peel fruits or vegetables, take the time to rinse them thoroughly to remove bacteria.

Wrap all raw meat, poultry and seafood separately from other food.

Use separate cutting boards and knives and disinfect and wash them thoroughly with soap and hot water before and after usage. Once your tools and ingredients are clean, then you can prepare meals safely.

Safely defrost meat in the refrigerator, in a microwave, or under cold water in a package that will not leak,

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com not on a counter at room temperature. Everyone should wash their hands before eating and wash or discard any food that falls on the floor.

If you make extra food, freeze it in small portions so it’s easy to defrost.

If leftovers are stored in the refrigerator, eat them within three or four days.

When eating out at restaurants, remember that someone else purchased the ingredients, cleaned the kitchen, and cooked the food. Look around: are the tables, cloths, utensils and servers clean and tidy? If not, leave. Checking out the bathroom will give you a definite sense of the establishment’s cleanliness and whether it is a priority.

Although our food production chain is complex and provides various opportunities for contamination and growth of pathogens, be proactive and use these precautions so you don’t become a victim of foodborne diseases. ■

Lap robes comfort cancer patients

By Michelle Hooper

S

and Hearts in Grand Junction began donating them. Since then, there are several church groups and five quilt groups that sew and knit for the program.

Anyone can donate fabric and padding to the St. Mary’s Survivorship Resource Center, located at the St. Mary’s Advanced Medicine Pavilion, 750 Wellington Ave. Use entrance 25 on the first floor. For more information, call 298-2351. ■

t. Mary’s Hospital’s Survivorship Program continues to receive lap robes from local quilting clubs in Grand Junction. Approximately 30 of these blankets are given to new patients at St. Mary’s each month.

“It really means a lot to patients, knowing someone cares about them,” Program Coordinator Debra Hesse said. “It takes hours to make these quilts. Patients continue to bring the quilts in with them when they come in for their treatments.”

Quilters from a local assisted living facility, recently donated nearly 30 lap robes.

The trend started about seven years ago when quilters of Caring Hands Left to right: Mary Elhafy, Geneva Hicks, Trudy Dodson, Edyth Conrad and St. Mary’s Survivorship Program Coordinator Debra Hesse.

Health & wellness 13

14

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

So, you want to write a book?

The nuts and bolts of writing Part 3 of 3

By Jan Weeks

N

ow that your book has taken shape, it’s time to decide whether or not to publish it. With the skyrocketing popularity of websites like CreateSpace, Lulu, and other selfpublishing sites, anyone with enough patience and cash can produce a satisfying product.

Consider also independent publishing. An independent publisher charges you for services and printing, but you don’t have to design a cover or hire an artist to do it. Formatting becomes the publisher’s headache. Even though it is a fee-based publishing option, the publisher takes responsibility for all aspects of the project, providing layout and design, content and copyediting, materials, size and pricing, copyright registration, production and delivery.

Reputable independent publishers do not take on any project that comes along. They want to produce a quality product and are picky about the projects they put their imprints on. Check references. When you

find an “indie” publisher, talk to authors who have published with the company. Indies will also guide you through the marketing process, which is as important, if not more so, than getting your book written and published.

Patti Hoff owns Brass Frog Bookworks, a local independent publishing firm. She also hosts Page Peddlers, informational get-togethers that discuss various facets of the writing process, including independent publishing, from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month at The Artful Cup, 3090 N. 12th St. For more information, email Hoff at pghoff@bresnan.net.

Maybe you want to submit your work to a traditional publishing company. There are many traditional publishers nationwide, but Pendant Publishing is one located in Grand Junction. If you choose to go that route, you’d better have a thick skin.

Even professional, prolific writers get rejected many more times than they get accepted. Your book must be the best it can be, and for that, you need input from others. And by others, I

This is not a critique— it’s an assault.

7 p.m., Saturday, march 9 avalon theatre, grand junction Visit any Mesa County Libraries branch to check out a copy of The Dog Stars.

Also pick up a 2013 One Book guide for complete event information.

mesacountylibraries.org

Re-Elect

EARLY BIRD SALE MONTH OF MARCH ONLY

Experience

Mesa Magic Compost

A vote for Tom Kenyon is a vote for our land, our city, our people & our future

$23.83 + tax/per yard

3

3

(reg. $33.36 + tax/per yard )

970

263-9319

Add a little MAGIC to your yard

WESTERN COLORADO

Re - Elect

COMPOST Solid Waste Management 3071 U.S. Highway 50 www.mesacounty.us/swm

PAid for by Kenyon for CiTy CounCil

don’t mean your mother or your best friend. A critique group made up of other writers aiming for publication is invaluable. Such groups can meet either online or in person. Many novice authors shy away from others’ opinions, reluctant to be told that their babies are ugly. But an authentic critique group will help you make your baby beautiful. The sidebar to this story shows how a good critique group functions.

Some critique groups are made up of people who want to feel superior at your expense. A friend of mine experienced the following comments from a screenwriting group: “It’s a third-rate imitation of Dickens.” “I’ve never read a bigger piece of crap!”

If you encounter such hostility and personal attacks, flee the group immediately. This is not a critique—it’s an assault.

A real critique group will honor your words while making suggestions to improve them. Members will tell you both strengths and weaknesses, and the analysis will always stress that you are the ultimate authority.

Just because someone says that particular passage doesn’t work for him doesn’t mean you should take it out.

But if everyone in the group says the same thing, it’s time to rethink that particular scene.

Don’t take rejection personally.

The agent or editor may have just taken on a very similar project, or your book may not fit their list. Some writers have a policy of sending out a manuscript to a different editor as soon as it’s returned so that it doesn’t languish in a file drawer or hard drive, fading into oblivion.

Electronic submissions have almost done away with the need to print page after page and pay huge postage costs. Each publisher will specify guidelines on its website. Most accept Word documents as attachments.

You’ll hear the word “query” tossed around in any writer’s circle. That simply means telling the publisher

March 2013 about your book in a short paragraph or two, mentioning why you’re the one who can best tell the story, giving a brief biography of yourself, and listing writing credits and awards. If you don’t have any published articles or stories, don’t be dismayed. Many agents and editors are open to wellwritten manuscripts from first-time authors.

Editors are picky about manuscript format. The standard is one-inch margins all around and double-spaced 12-point Times New Roman or Courier font. Include a header with your last name, the title of your book in all caps, and the page number. Don’t use fancy fonts or colors. They’re sure signs of a beginning writer. Likewise, don’t decorate the envelope, if submitting through snail mail, with stickers, smiley faces, or other things more appropriate to a kindergarten classroom. An editor at a writers’ conference told of a woman who had stamped little doggie footprints all over the envelope and started her query with “I hope you’ll paws long enough to read my novel.” Guess where that submission went. If you want to be taken as a professional, act like one and format your manuscript to industry standards.

Now that you’ve finished your book, how do you find a publisher?

“Writers’ Market” and “Literary Marketplace” list thousands of magazine and book publishers and are well worth the $40 or so. You can also get “Writers’ Market” online, complete with submission tracker and other nifty extras. Study books in your genre, then Google the publishers’ websites. Almost all of them will have submission guidelines. Subscribe to free e-newsletters, such as “Funds for Writers.”

Finally, believe in your book.

You’ve written, revised, taken advice, and followed accepted standards for publishing. Now it’s time to let your beautified baby make its way into the world for others to read and coo over.

Jan Weeks is the local author of three traditionally published novels and one self-published e-novel. To contact her, visit www.weekslit.com or email jan@weekslit.com. ■

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Critique or criticism?

Critique groups create a safe atmosphere in which to practice your craft, but leave your ego at the door. Rely on other writers to make your book better.

Don’t be alarmed by comments about how you can improve your writing. It’s your work and you are the final arbiter of what goes and what stays. However, if several reviewers have the same problem with a section of your work, you might want to rethink your position.

Not all critique groups are created equal. The good ones will have the following qualities.

Comments are always about the writing, never about personalities. Criticism should always be constructive and should point out strong areas as well as weak writing. Nasty comments and personal attacks should never be tolerated.

Members should have at least two weeks to look over submissions before commenting. Listening to writers read their submission aloud or trying to thoughtfully comment on a 10-page story you’ve had only a few minutes to look over isn’t fair to the writer or the reviewer.

Members should be at approximately the same level of writing competence.

When abilities range from novice to professional, it’s like putting fourth graders into a college class and expecting them to flourish.

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/EEIOCPA/RECA benefit program expert • S trict hiring guidelines ensure only the best and most experienced local nurses care for you

Helping People Live at Home

Members commit to the group and attend regularly, just as if they were showing up for a job. Which they are, if they’re serious about their craft.

Submissions are handed to the other members on time.

For more information on the Colorado West Writers’ Workshop, a local critique group, or to obtain a copy of its guidelines, contact me at 255-6679 or jan@ weekslit.com.

The local chapter of Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers is also starting a critique group. You can contact Vicki Law at 497-6452 or vruchhoeft@bresnan.net.

The club offers workshops, conferences, and other writers’ assistance.

- 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

Laughing Matters The pastor’s new teeth Submitted by Karen Jones A pastor went to the dentist to get a set of false teeth. At church on Sunday, he talked for only eight minutes. The second Sunday, he talked for only 10 minutes. The following Sunday, he talked for two hours and 48 minutes. The congregation had to mob him to get him down from the pulpit.

When they asked him what happened, the pastor explained that the first Sunday, his gums hurt so bad that he couldn’t talk for more than eight minutes. The second Sunday, his gums hurt too much to talk for more than 10 minutes. But the third Sunday, he put his wife’s teeth in by mistake and he couldn’t shut up.

Got stuck Submitted by Joseph Glade A truck driver was driving along the freeway and noticed a sign that read: “Low Bridge Ahead.” Before he

P R E M I E R

knew it, the bridge was right in front of him and his truck became wedged under it. Cars were backed up for miles. Finally, a police car came up.

The cop got out and said, “Got stuck, huh?”

The truck driver said, “No, I was delivering this bridge and I ran out of gas.”

Something’s fishy Submitted by Pete Hughes A redneck with a bucket full of live fish was approached by a game warden as he started to drive his boat away from the lake.

“May I see your fishing license, please?” the game warden asked.

“I don’t need none of them there papers,” the redneck said. “These here are my pet fish.”

“Pet fish?”

“Yep,” the redneck said. “Once a week, I bring these here fish of mine down to the lake and let them swim around for a while. Then when I

S E N I O R

March 2013

whistle, they swim right back into my net and I take them home.”

“What a line of baloney,” the game warden said. “You’re under arrest.”

“It’s the truth!” the redneck protested. “I’ll show ya! We do this all the time.”

“Prove it!”

The redneck released the fish into the lake and stood and waited. After a few minutes, the game warden said, “Well?”

“Well what?” said the redneck.

“When are you going to call them back?”

“Call who back?”

“The fish!” the warden replied.

“What fish?”

Brain-eating bacteria Submitted by Bob Breazeale Did you hear about the politician that contracted a brain-eating bacteria? He managed to survive.

The doctor said the bacteria died of starvation.

Over the hill Submitted by Charles Gross You may be a little further over the

L I V I N G

hill than you thought when: It takes two “walk” light cycles to get across the street.

Mail delivery is the main social activity of the day.

You find yourself worn out while wrestling an “easy-open” pill bottle.

The department stores seem to carry clothing styles for a much younger crowd.

A new pair of trousers comes with a “lifetime guarantee.”

Even the handicap ramp looks too steep.

The volume on the TV set has cracked the ceiling plaster.

Your sunglasses cover most of your face.

You have big plans, but can’t remember what they are.

Magic milk Submitted by James Birdsill In an Irish convent, the Mother Superior lay dying. The nuns gathered around her bed trying to make her last journey comfortable. They tried giving her warm milk to drink but she refused it.

C O M M U N I T I E S

The Independence we want and the Support we need.

Visit Hilltop’s independent and assisted living communities today and discover a world of gracious living, personalized care and unsurpassed amenities.

Now Renting Studio, 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments n Luxurious apartments featuring great views & spacious floorplans

n On-site physician visits and medical transportation

n Temporary assisted living stays

n 24-hour emergency response

n Social activities and trips

n Personal assistance, room service & pet walking

n Restaurant-style dining

The Commons (970) 243-3333 625 27 1/2 Road

www.TheCommonsGJ.org

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

March 2013 One of the nuns took the glass back to the kitchen. Then she remembered a bottle of Irish whiskey she had received for Christmas one year. She opened the bottle and poured a generous amount into the warm milk.

Back at Mother Superior’s bed, they held the glass to her lips. The frail nun drank a little, then a little more and before they knew it, she had finished the whole glass down to the last drop.

As her eyes brightened, the nuns thought it would be a good opportunity to have one last talk with their spiritual leader.

“Mother,” the nuns said. “Please give us some of your wisdom before you leave us.”

She raised herself up in bed, looked at them and said, “Don’t sell that cow.”

I love my grandkids Submitted by Jacque Stafford Grandpa is the smartest man on earth! He teaches me good things, but I don’t get to see him enough to get as smart as him.

A dog’s “cat nap” Submitted by Danny Snow An older, tired-looking dog wandered into my yard one day. I could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home and was well taken care of. He calmly came over to me and I gave him a few pats on the head. He then followed me into my house, slowly walked down the hall, curled up in the corner and fell asleep.

An hour later, he went to the door and I let him out.

The next day he was back. He greeted me in the yard, walked inside and resumed his spot in the hall and again slept for about an hour. This continued off and on for several weeks.

Curious, I pinned a note to his collar: “I would like to find out who the owner of this wonderful, sweet, dog is and ask if you are aware that almost every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap.”

The next day, the dog arrived for his nap with a different note pinned to his collar. The note read, “He lives in a home with six children, two un-

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com der the age of 3. He’s trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?”

Kids in church Submitted by Susan Capps Reese was overheard reciting the Lord’s Prayer in church: “Our Father, who does art in heaven, Harold is his name…”

Leslie’s version of the Lord’s Prayer was: “And forgive us our trash baskets, as we forgive those who put trash in our baskets.”

Brian was overheard praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”

After the christening of his baby brother in church, Jason sobbed all the way home in the back seat of the car. His father asked him three times what was wrong. Finally, the boy replied, “That preacher said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, but I want to stay with you guys.”

A Sunday school teacher asked her students on the way to the chapel why it was important to be quiet in church. One bright little girl named Sandy replied, “Because people are sleeping.”

Kevin and Ryan’s mother was preparing pancakes for her sons. The boys began to argue over who would get the first pancake. Their mother saw an opportunity for a moral lesson.

“If Jesus were sitting here, he would say, ‘Let my brother have the first pancake. I can wait.’”

Kevin turned to his younger brother and said, “Ryan, you be Jesus.”

John and his father were at the beach. John ran up to his father, grabbed his hand, and led him to the shore where a seagull lay dead in the sand.

“Daddy, what happened to him?”

John asked.

“He died and went to heaven,” his father replied.

John thought for a moment and then said, “Did God throw him back down?” ■

Laughing matters 17

V O T E D D A I L Y S E N T I N E L’ S B E S T O F T H E W E S T 2 0 1 3

RETIREMENT LIVING

YOUR WAY

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.

A Abo sk u Mov t Our Spe e-in cial s

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) 434-2111

TheCottagesGJ.org

Visit today for a tour and free lunch

Send your funniest jokes to: beacon@pendantpublishing.com 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

18 Travel

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mark your calendars...Invite a friend!

TRAVEL INFORMATION GET-TOGETHER

Montrose: March 26 ~ 10:00 AM Timberline Bank ~ 1561 Oxbow Drive Grand Junction: March 26 ~ 2:00 PM 3032 N. 15th ~ Community Room Presenting... Heritage of America & Classic Christmas Markets

THE BEST OF EASTERN CANADA May 26 - June 3, 2013 Space still available...call Soon!

HERITAGE OF AMERICA

October 11 - 20, 2013 Highlights… New York City, Philadelpia, Amish Country, Gettysburg, Monticello, Shenandoah Valley, Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, Washington D.C., Smithsonian Institution

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MARKETS

November 29 - December 7, 2013 Highlights… Black Forest, Strasbourg, Franconia Region, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Oberammergau, Munich, Innsbruck, Christmas Markets Call for information, reservations, and to receive a free newsletter.

Payment plans available...call for details Margaret Krabbe

P.O. Box 2142 • Montrose, CO 81402 Specializing in Escorted Local, National & International Senior Group Travel!

Announcing

Phone (970)

240-3020

Email: mkrabbe@montrose.net

NEW TOURS FOR 2013

APRIL ~ Southern Nights & Southern Lights The Golden Isles Spring visit to Savannah, Charleston, Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island and St. Augustine MAY ~ Denver Spring Theatre Weekend “Guys and Dolls” “Les Miserables” and “Sense and Sensibility – the Musical” AUGUST

~

Alaska Cruise & Tour

5 day tour explores Fairbanks, Denali, and Mt. McKinley plus 7-day Inside Passage cruise on Sapphire Princess All tours depart from Grand Junction Call for detailed flyers and pricing!

Terry Eakle

Escorting Custom Tours from Grand Junction Since 1985.

607 28 1/4 Road • Grand Junction, CO 81506 • 434-6494 Kurtzman Lintott Gallery 412 Main Street Grand Junction 970-245-7949

rob Kurtzm an Photogr a Ph y landscape photography

20% off any Photograph with this ad (present ad at purchase) Expires 03/28/2013

March 2013

Bored in Rhodes, Greece? Not a chance Lindos

By Victor Block

“Y

ou want to spend two weeks on Rhodes?” our Greek friend asked. “You’ll go out of your mind.”

Those words made my wife Fyllis and me conclude that we had made a mistake, but it was too late. Airline tickets had been bought and hotels had been booked.

Fast forward two months. After our trip, we recalled that warning and agreed that we had been wrong. We should have stayed on Rhodes longer.

Hearing the word “Greece” can conjure up multiple images. Whitewashed villages gleaming in the sun.

Seas that range in a spectrum of color from light turquoise to dark blue. Archeological sites that trace the roots of much of Western civilization.

Rhodes has it all, conveniently packed into an area about one-half the size of Long Island, New York that allows visitors to discover its allures and attractions at a leisurely pace.

The entire island is an outdoor museum of reminders of peoples who have passed through. That includes the seafaring Phoenicians, Persians, Ottoman Turks and those from the Roman Empire.

The city of Rhodes is perched at the northernmost tip of the island where an ancient settlement rose more than 2,400 years ago. Monuments from every period since then stand in silent testimony to its long history. The old walled section is the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe. Ancient buildings and fortifications manifest an atmosphere of the Middle Ages as authentic as that found anywhere.

Many of the most impressive

structures date back to the period between 1307 and 1522 A.D., when the Order of Knights of St. John of Jerusalem ruled and left imposing evidence of their presence. The Street of the Knights, lined by former residences, leads to the fortress-like Grand Master’s Palace. An archaeological museum is located in what served as the main hospital of the knights. Hippocrates Square, the Old Town’s main shopping area, is lined by imposing stone buildings that today house restaurants and bars.

Despite its population of only about 1,100 people, Lindos vies with Rhodes as a magnet for visitors. It’s a quintessential Greek village of white houses, dazzling in the sunlight, perched on the side of a steep hill. Looming above is the acropolis, a cliff topped by graceful columns that are remnants of the Temple of Athena. Also intriguing is an outdoor auditorium carved into a rocky cliff that could seat 1,800 spectators.

Located near the middle of Rhodes, Lindos is well situated for day trips to beaches and other attractions. Like many destinations in Europe, Rhodes is lined by beaches that range from soft sand to rounded pebbles. The best are strung along the east coast of the island.

Despite the allure of sand and sun, Fyllis and I managed to tear ourselves away to delve into a mixed bag of historic sights. Driving through the countryside, we followed roads that snake over rolling hills and low mountains. Landscapes vary from

March 2013

Travel 19

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

arid, rocky terrain near es on Rhodes. Clinging the coastline to verdant to a hillside, the town forests in the interior. of about 550 inhabitA stroll through the ants offers panoramic extensive ruins of views of the sea in one ancient Kamiros introdirection and in the duces the lifestyle of other, of Mount Attavyits original inhabitants ros, the tallest spot on during the fifth and the island at 3,985 feet. sixth centuries B.C. For an excellent meal The site spills down and opportunities to a hillside overlooking A weaver in Archangelos. meet friendly locals, the sea. On the top stop at any of the small level stood a temple tavernas that you pass complex of Athena and when driving between a covered reservoir, and in villages. The large enough to supply owners often are the water to several huncooks and wait staff, dred families through a and even if they speak network of terra cotta no English, they go pipes. out of their way to The main settlement, Tiny Chapel help you order. Several on a lower terrace, times we were invited consisted of a grid of into the kitchen to see streets and houses what was available and adorned with mosaic point to our selection. floors and painted wall As ubiquitous as decorations. The retavernas throughout mains of public baths Rhodes are churches, include hot and cold and they come in all chambers, and an unsizes. While the major derground system for religious edifices atheating the rooms. tract most visitors, FylEqually inviting is Taverna chef grilling lunch. lis and I found equally contemporary life inviting the tiny white encountered in tiny chapels that are scatunspoiled mountain tered around the island. villages, which in many Many of these minusways has changed little cule structures can over generations. Many accommodate only a town folk cling stubhandful of worshippers. bornly and proudly to Those tiny places of their traditional ways. worship stand in conResidents of Archtrast to large cathedrals angelos are known as Fisherman mending nets. built when Rhodes was master artisans who make pottery and weave carpets and a power in the ancient world. The atmosphere in Rhodes and Lindos is tapestries using the same time-honvery different from that experienced ored methods as their forebears. in villages elsewhere on the island.

Anyone driving into the village of That diversity accounts for much of Appolonia need only follow the wonthe appeal of Rhodes, and introduces derful aroma to find the little bakery of the same name. If you’re ever there, those who visit there to most of what Greece has to offer. be sure to sample melekouni, a sweet For more information call the pastry revered in Homer’s texts, and Greek National Tourism Organization “spoon sweet,” a popular Greek desat 212-421-5777 or log onto www. sert flavored with a variety of fruits.

Kritinia is one of the prettiest villag- visitgreece.gr. ■

Come sail wit h t he

Beacon

A few spAces remAin

JULY 2 - JULY 9, 2013 7 day Alaska Cruise from Seattle, WA Departs from: seattle, wA Aboard the: carnival miracle

r call efont r r cu ing pr i c

Ports of Call: • Cruise Tracy Arm Fjord Skagway • Juneau • Ketchikan • Victoria, BC, Canada

Cruise includes: • 7 night cruise aboard the Carnival Miracle, including 21 meals Deposit: • $350 Deposit confirms space • Credit cards accepted Final Payment Due: • April 18, 2013

Call Cindy, Sharon or Roberta with All About Travel: 970-434-6494

Check out our

Palisade Revival Package!

Relax beneath the shadow of the Palisade and experience the soothing relief of the Spa at Gateway Canyons.

Enjoy two 50-minutes treatments for yourself, or share with a special someone.

Call 970 931-2458 for information and prices or visit us on the web at www.gatewaycanyons.com

20 insurance

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

June 2013

Must-have insurance plans

* We will quote your home and auto insurance together against your current coverage.

If we can’t beat the price of your current coverage, we will give you a $25 gift card. Terms and Conditions Apply.

Howard Davidson Agency 701 S Townsend Ave Montrose, CO 81401 970-252-0076 Howard Davidson

Insurance & Financial Services Agent

hdavidson@farmersagent.com www.farmersagent.com/hdavidson

Have questions about Life Insurance?

We can help!

By Jason Alderman Many people adopt a “penny wise, pound foolish” mentality when it comes to buying insurance. When trying to lower expenses, some will drop or reduce needed coverage, gambling that they won’t become seriously ill, suffer a car accident or fall victim to a fire or other catastrophe.

But all it takes is one serious uncovered (or under-covered) incident to potentially wipe you out financially.

Here are insurance policies no household should be without: Medical. This is the most critical— and unfortunately, the most expensive—coverage you need. When comparing plans, consider: • Are your doctors in their provider networks? If not, can you afford outof-network charges or are you willing to find new doctors?

• Are your medications covered under the plan’s drug formularies?

• Do they restrict specialized services you might need like maternity, mental health or weight reduction treatments?

• If you choose catastrophic coverage to lower premiums, can you afford the high deductible in case of an accident or major illness?

Homeowner/renter. Faulty plumbing, theft and home-accident lawsuits are only a few catastrophes that could leave you without possessions or homeless. A few tips: • “Actual cash value” coverage repairs or replaces belongings, minus the deductible and depreciation, whereas “replacement cost” coverage replaces items in today’s dollars.

Depreciation can significantly lower values, so replacement coverage is probably worth the extra expense.

• Jewelry, art, computers and luxury items usually require additional coverage.

• Review coverage periodically to adjust for inflation, home improvements, new possessions, change in marital/family status, etc.

• The market is competitive, so compare your rate with other insurance carriers. Get “apples to apples”

quotes since policies may have varying provisions.

Vehicle. You probably can’t even get a driver’s license without demonstrating proof of insurance. Consider these coverage options: • “Liability” pays if you cause an accident that injures others or damages their car or property.

• “Uninsured motorist” pays for damage caused to you or your car by an uninsured motorist.

• “Collision” pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision and “comprehensive” pays for damage caused by things like theft, vandalism and fire. However, they only pay up to the actual cash value (ACV) minus deductibles. Because the ACV for older cars is low, repairs often cost more than the car is worth.

• Common ways to lower premiums include: raising deductibles, discounts for good drivers, exceeding age 55 or installing security systems, comparison shopping, and buying homeowner and car insurance from the same carrier.

Life insurance. If you’re single with no dependents, you may get by with minimal or no life insurance. But if your family depends on your income, experts recommend buying coverage worth at least five to 10 times annual pay. Other considerations: • Many employers offer life insurance, but if you’re young and healthy you may be able to get a better deal on your own.

• After your kids are grown you may be able to lower your coverage, although carefully consider your spouse’s retirement needs.

• You probably don’t need life insurance on your children, but you might want spousal coverage if you depend on each other’s income.

• If your divorce settlement includes alimony and/or child support, buy life insurance on the person paying it, naming the receiving exspouse as a beneficiary.

Don’t gamble your future financial stability by passing on vital insurance coverage. The odds aren’t in your favor. ■

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Botox is only skin deep

By Ernie Witham

“T

o wrinkle or not to wrinkle, that is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous frowning, or to bear Botox against a forehead of troubles and, by injecting, end them.” (Bill Shakespeare, as channeled to Ernie Witham) Yes, Botox is the word of the day, kids, and by kids I mean fellow baby boomers and upcoming GenXers, who feel aging is for wine and cheese, not for people.

The way I hear it, sales of Prozac have been depressing and there was a downturn in Viagra, so the pharmaceutical industry had to come up with a new way to make money.

Fortunately, they just happened to have all this botulism toxin hanging around taking up lab space. So they renamed it, bottled it, and sent it out to doctors’ offices with free logo coffee cups, and voila! It’s now unfurrowing knitted brows.

Matter of fact, Botox has become so popular as a wrinkle remover, it is rumored that casting directors in Hollywood are having a hard time finding actors that can frown. There is also a limited supply of prospects with smiling eyes and crinkling noses. Therefore, studio execs are now scrambling to find movie scripts

about zombies and other featureless creatures.

There are, of course, many advantages to paralyzing your skin so that it can’t form wrinkles. For instance, say you have teenagers. One of their main goals in life is to make you, the parent, age practically before their eyes. But post-treatment, the scene might play like this: “I’ve decided to drop out of high school and open a body piercing operation,” your teenager says defiantly.

“That’s nice, dear. I hear there are always openings,” you respond, fraught with indistinguishable emotion.

“Didn’t you hear me? I’m going to buy a tent and travel like a gypsy from rock concert to rock concert,” she yells, staring into your unmoving face.

“Don’t forget to pack extra scarves,” you say, quelling the tears that lie beneath your frozen facial muscles.

“Forget it! You want me to go. Instead, I’m going to stay right here and study hard and become successful.”

“Whatever makes you happy,” you say as she storms out, a look of relief not lighting up your face.

Botox could also be very helpful if you were, say, a professional poker player.

“You’re bluffing.”

“Yes, I am.”

“Aha! So you’re not bluffing.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Aha! I mean... Oh hell, here, just take my money.”

And what about politicians? Can you imagine an entire campaign of stone-faced Mitt Romney look-a-likes?

Despite all these obvious benefits, I have not decided whether I should Botox my forehead, collagen my cheeks, dermabrase my nose, and laser my chin, or whether I should simply let my face continue its slide into my neck. My chest is quickly settling into my groin area and my buttocks are now a lot closer to the backs of my knees than ever.

Still, it does seem a shame not to take advantage of modern medicine, and I’d certainly like to be just as young and nondescript as the next person. So I called my HMO to see what my options were.

“Universal Health. One treatment fits all. How can I help you?”

“My name is Ernie and I’d like to become timeless.”

“Sorry. We don’t cover taxidermy.”

“How about Botox and collagen?”

“I said: We don’t cover taxidermy.’”

Dang. Guess that settles it. Although, I do wonder what I would look like with a wrinkleless face.

“Oh my god,” my wife said upon her arrival home from work.

“Whataya think?” I asked, pulling the final piece of duct tape tight and sticking it to the back of my neck.

“Do I look more appealing?”

For a few minutes she just stared into my stretched open eyes, then finally she sighed, “I know I have said this before, but you really, really need to get out more.”

“Okay,” I said, expressionlessly, although, deep inside, I was frowning. ■

Ready for Spring? We can help with your: Landscape & Garden - Supplies & Service Decorative rocks, mulches, bark, sand, gravel, roadbase, boulders, flagstone, soil, amendments, weed barrier, edging and more.

Delivery and landscape service available.

Call us at 245-4920

Sticks and Stones 2920 D 1/2 Road Grand Junction www.gjsticksandstones.com

From drab to fab before

before

after after

Designing

upscale outDoor living areas

RgsDesigns LLC is a landscape architecture firm with over 30 years experience in designing upscale outdoor living rooms that provide contemplative and relaxing experiences. There is research that stress is a major cause of disease and that a properly designed stress reducing RESIDENTIAL or HEALTHCARE landscape can have true beneficial qualities. Rick Spalenka trained and is certified in therapeutic garden design and horticulture therapy from the Denver and Chicago Botanical

21

www.rgsdesigns.com

Call before my season books up 970 216-8837

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

Bringing You Colorado & the World.

Online at www.cpr.org

Fun after 50 L

earn something new and have fun doing it. For a complete list of activities, visit www.gjcity.org or pick up an Activity Guide at the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation office, 1340 Gunnison Ave. or the Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave. Call 254-3876 to register for the following classes.

March 19

March 5

Garden Talk – Backyard Bee Keeping

Cell Phone Basics

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 $10.

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.

7:30 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)

March 2013

Advanced Smart Phone and iPad Learn how to use your smart phone or iPad to send and receive email, browse the web, and use web-based applications like Facebook. Class is at 10 a.m. at the Senior Recreation Center and costs $10.

March 20

Learn how to use your cell phone.

This class covers storing contacts, managing voicemail, speed dialing and more. Class is at 10 a.m. at the Senior Recreation Center and costs $10.

Tony Fronczeck from Horsethief Mesa Apiaries will go over the essentials of bee keeping. Cost is $5 and takes place at noon at the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens, 655 Struthers Ave.

March 9

March 28

Free Pickleball Clinics

Cowboy Cha Cha

Learn to play pickleball from 9 a.m. to noon. Learn basic shots, rules and strategy. Equipment is available for use. A Referee Clinic takes place from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Learn the rules, calls and scoring. Both take place at Lincoln Park Tennis Courts.

No experience necessary to master this expressive couples line dance.

You must register as a couple. Class takes place at 7 p.m. at Lincoln Park Barn. Cost is $12 per individual.

March 12

To register for any of the following activities, call the Fruita Community Center (FCC) at 858-0360 or visit www.fruita.org. Events take place at the FCC unless otherwise noted.

Smart Phones, iPads and You Take advantage of some of the advanced features of your smart phone.

Learn how to change settings and ringtones and learn about apps and how to use them. Class is at 10 a.m. at the Senior Recreation Center and costs $10.

March 13 & 20

Bicycle Maintenance Receive hands-on training in tube/ tire repair, lubrication, brake and gear adjustment, preventative maintenance and more. Bring your bike to Brown Cycles, 549 Main St., from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Cost is $28.50 and all students receive a complimentary tube and patch kit and 10% off accessories purchased the night of the class.

March 15

Friday Hike – Old Gordon Trail Ranger Nick will lead this hike and focus on the geology and history of the area. Lunch is provided. Cost is $5. Meet at the trailhead at 10 a.m.

Fruita Senior Center Activities

March 8

Senior Social Night Enjoy an evening with friends and with a movie and popcorn. A potluck meal will be served. Call the FCC to sign-up to bring a potluck item.

Social begins at 5:30 p.m.

March 21

Bunco!

At 1 p.m., join the fun and games.

Bring a wrapped white elephant gift.

March 25

Mystery Night Dress up and help solve the mystery.

Meal provided. Register by March 18.

Starts at 5:30 p.m. ■

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

23

Seniors compete in first Regional Pickleball Tournament Grand Junction on April 13, Montrose on May 4 and Delta on May 18. ickleball is a racquet sport, which “There will be winners crowned combines elements of badminfor each individual tournament and ton, tennis and ping-pong. Although participants will earn bonus tickets similar to tennis, there are key differfor entering other local tournaments, ences that make it more accessible to which conclude with a raffle drawing a wider range of players, including for prizes,” Recreation Coordinator seniors. Pickleball is played with a for Grand Junction Parks and Recrehard paddle and polymer wiffle ball, ation Lorie Gregor said. “The more so the ball moves at one-third the tournaments entered, the better your average speed of a tennis ball. The chance to win the bonus prizes.” size of the court is also just under It costs $20 to register. The tourone-third of the total area of a tennaments are refereed and include nis court. The smaller both recreational and court and slower movcompetitive levels. ing ball still require Men and women’s footwork, eye-hand codoubles take place ordination and aerobic in the morning and movement, but is less mixed doubles in the taxing on the body. afternoon. A barbecue Ken Hobbs, 74, said lunch will be providthis rising sport is “the ed. Championship Tfastest growing senior shirts will be awarded sport in the country.” to the first place Hobbs played pickleteams and ribbons ball during the winter will be given to secmonths in Arizona, ond and third place. but when he came to The player receives a Grand Junction, no John Nuiten, left, and Jeff Weinberg, raffle ticket for each one was playing. division entered. right, play pickleball.

“Three years ago, Learn how to play pickleball during the County and City combined efforts a free clinic offered at 9 a.m. to noon to paint some courts and purchase on Saturday, March 9 at the Lincoln portable nets,” Hobbs said. “The City Park Courts. Equipment will be added clinics and a tournament, and provided. by the end of the year, we will have Linda Griffith, 61, took a clinic in four new pickleball courts at Lincoln 2011 and now plays three times a Park.” week. Hobbs, Gamble and Griffith There seems to be no limit to who are all looking forward to participatcan play. Hobbs mentioned 86-yearing in the tournament. old Roy Gamble, who despite living “This game is easy to learn and is with Parkinson’s disease, plays daily. really fun,” Gregor said. “People say “Roy used to play handball, tennis that they can continue to play pickleand golf regularly and had to give ball well into their later years, which them up,” Hobbs said. “He said is beneficial for maintaining health [pickleball] saved his life.” and enjoying positive socialization.”

The game has become so popular For more information on the Grand that the City of Grand Junction, GlenJunction tournament or clinic and to wood Springs, Montrose and Delta register, call 254-3866. To register for have teamed up to form the first the Glenwood Springs tournament, Regional Pickleball Tournament. call 384-6301. For the Montrose tourThe tournament kicks off on March nament, call 252-4884 and for the 23 in Glenwood Springs, followed by Delta tournament, call 874-0923. ■

By Melanie Wiseman

P

Ameristar Casino Resort Black Hawk, Colorado - Tuesday, April 16 - Wednesday, April 17 $169 per person single occupancy - $139 per person double occupancy Includes: 1 Night Lodging, Transportation Buffet • Starbucks • Variety of Restaurants • Beautiful Rooms • Spa Tuesday, April 16th Pick Up Times: 7:00 a.m. Montrose Public Parking Lot (N 2nd & Cascade) 7:30 a.m. Delta Public Parking Lot (between 4th & 5th st) 8:15 a.m. City Market in Clifton Must have at least 25 guests to run trip! Round up all your friends!!!

For more information or to book your reservation: Call 970-240-0813

24 Local lore

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

HISTORY OF RAILROADS

inColorado

Grand Junction terminal. All photos courtesy of the Museum of Western Colorado.

By Sandi Cameron

W

hile perusing a recent article about jumping trains during the Great Depression, I was reminded of the importance of the railroad throughout America’s more recent history. Without the introduction of rails, many communities would have a very different story. Of course, a good water source was of prime importance in the birth of settlements, but the railroad, no less significant, provided a dependable, affordable means of transportation of goods and people both to and from communities.

The towns of western Colorado gladly welcomed the arrival of rail.

According to the Museum of the West, “The Denver and Rio Grande Railroad reached town in November,

1882 and it was a major boost to the success of Grand Junction. Trains were of paramount importance...

Grand Junction became a major division point of the railroad, with repair and maintenance shops.”

Without lumber and manufactured products brought into Grand Junction by rail in 1882, the city could not have grown so rapidly. (This was just months after incorporating the city, quickly following the opening of the Western Slope to settlers.) A bridge was built across the Colorado River in 1882, allowing westward access to the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. Within the year, there was a population of over 1,000 people.

Grand Junction, platted quickly by founder George Crawford, became a supply center for the region, provid-

ing goods and services for the surrounding agricultural and ranching communities. A variety of crops, aided by extensive irrigation, were produced in the area: apples, peaches, apricots, pears, and cherries. All could be easily transported to out-ofstate markets.

D.S. Grimes of Denver planted 100,000 fruit trees along the Colorado River, and stated that it was “the best fruit growing between Salt Lake and Kansas.” In 1899, the state’s first sugar mill was established in Grand Junction, providing another valuable commodity to be exported by rail.

(Because of Grand Junction’s significant use of rail transportation, in 2012, the city was awarded membership in Union Pacific’s Train Town USA Registry as part of the railroad’s

150th anniversary celebration.)

Thirteen years prior to the settling of Grand Junction, in 1869, the Union Pacific Railroad bypassed Colorado in its transcontinental trek to join tracks with the Central Pacific Railroad, routed through Cheyenne, Wyoming, rather than Denver. However, Denver soon had a connecting line to the railway, acknowledging the Colorado territory’s growing importance. On November 19, 1867, the citizens of Denver incorporated the Denver Pacific Railroad, with the first track laid in 1869 after a spirited campaign to raise funds. It was completed by June 26, 1870. The same year, the Kansas Pacific joined it as the second viable transportation route. The Denver Pacific connected Denver with Cheyenne and the

Wyoming territory, whereas the latter connected Denver with the East.

Focusing on the accessibility of major coal and metal mining areas, many smaller lines were added.

In 1880, the Denver Pacific and the Kansas Pacific merged into the Union Pacific system.

Prominent among the early railroads was the Denver and Rio Grande, which became the most extensive system in Colorado. The D&RG started as a narrow gauge line running south from Denver in 1870. However, it served mainly as a transcontinental bridge line between Denver and Salt Lake City. The Rio Grande transported massive quantities of coal and mineral ores and was known for its mountain railroading, with the motto “Through the Rockies, not around them.”

The D&RGW operated the highest mainline rail line in the U.S. at over 10,240 feet on Tennessee Pass. Because the route over Tennessee Pass was known for steep grades, it wasn’t uncommon to see trains running with midtrain and rear-end helpers.

First in the nation in 1871, D&RG began installing Westinghouse air brakes on freight trains. At its height around 1890, the D&RG had the largest operating narrow gauge railroad network in North America.

(Note: The 3-foot rail gauge tracks were an innovation for North America.)

The D&RG placed tracks west from Pueblo, reaching Cañon City in 1874. Salida was connected via Royal Gorge by May 20, 1880, with Leadville next in line. Gen. U.S. Grant traveled the first D&RG train to Leadville on July 22, 1880. (The line from Pueblo to Leadville was upgraded in 1887 to three rails to accommodate both narrow gauge and standard gauge operations.) The D&RG pushed west across the Continental Divide at 10,845 feet over Marshall Pass, reaching Gunnison

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Local lore 25 Unloading ice at the train depot.

on August 6, 1881. (Three months later, an extension track connected Crested Butte.) From Gunnison, the line continued through the Black Canyon of the Gunnison River. Today the D&RG Narrow Gauge “steel deck span” trestle near Cimarron is the last remaining railroad trestle along this route. The bridge has an 1882 steam locomotive, 1904 boxcar, and 1888 caboose on display.

The tracks left the increasingly difficult canyon at Cimarron, passing over Cerro Summit and reaching Montrose on September 8, 1882.

From Montrose, a line was laid north through Delta to Grand Junction. (By 1906, this trek used standard gauge.)

By March of 1883, tracks from east

and west met at Desert Switch, 13 miles west of Green River, Utah. This completed a narrow gauge transcontinental link with the Rio Grande Western Railway to Salt Lake City.

Originally, the railroad crossed the Gunnison River four times in a short stretch near Bridgeport. In September of 1883, just five months after the first through train to Salt Lake passed over the line, the D&RG contracted to have a half-mile tunnel built to bypass those bridges. By 1884, narrow gauge trains were moving through the 2,252-foot Bridgeport tunnel instead.

Railroad construction in Colorado was at its greatest in the 1880s and early 1890s. Total mileage more than

tripled during this time. The peak was 1887, with the boom over by 1891. By this year, standard gauge equipment could travel over D&RG main lines and most of its branches.

The Denver and Rio Grande merged with the Rio Grande Western in 1908. However, the railroad was weakened by speculators, who had used the Rio Grande’s equity to finance Western Pacific Railroad construction. The U.S. Railroad Administration took over the D&RG during World War I. After the bankruptcy of Western Pacific, the D&RG fell into receivership. The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad was then incorporated in 1920, and formally emerged as the reorganized Denver and Rio Grande Railroad on July 31, 1921.

The Denver and Salt Lake Western Railroad was acquired by the D&RG in 1931. In 1932, the D&RG began construction of the 40-mile Dotsero Cutoff east of Glenwood Springs to Orestod, near Bond. Denver now had a direct link to the West. In 1935 the D&RG slipped into bankruptcy again, emerging in 1937 in combination with the D&SL, and gained control of the “Moffat Road” through the Moffat Tunnel and a branch line from Bond to Craig. Because travel through the mountains was slower, the D&RGW’s solution was its “fast freight” philosophy, which employed multiple diesel locomotives pulling short, frequent trains. Diesel locomotives could easily be combined, so by 1956, most of the D&RGW’s standard-gauge steam trains had been retired and scrapped.

Read the rest of this story next month in April’s BEACON. ■

Young men entraining for troop camp, 1917.

26

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Recognize the three types of aging.

Which are you?

By Robin Avery

W

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

hen I tell someone I’m a gerontologist, more often than not there’s a blank look on their face. I’m not offended at all by this. Gerontology is a profession that most people don’t need to be familiar with.

“Geron” from the Greek language means “old man” and the suffix “logy” means “study of.” The applications of this study of aging apply across a wide range of disciplines, but primarily reside in the social, psychological and biological arenas.

We gerontologists are fascinated by the cycle of life, especially the latter years, and the understanding of how we can age optimally.

Gerontologists recognize three types of aging: normal, pathological and optimal. Even normal aging, about 70 percent of us, has few positives. Pathological aging, about 26 percent of us, is no fun at all and usually means a diagnosis and entry into the medical labyrinth. Optimal agers, about 4 percent of us, are rare.

The normal aging process brings a decline in physical strength, endurance and flexibility. Our body’s organs become less efficient. The heart, lungs and kidneys all weaken. The elderly become more sensitive to medications as a result of these changes in critical organ function. Pathological aging includes these chronic maladies: arthritis (49% of us), hypertension (37%), hearing impairments (32%), heart disease (30%), sinusitis (17%), cataracts (17%), orthopedic impairments (16%), diabetes (9%), visual impairments (9%), tinnitus (8%) and varicose veins (8%).

Aging is serious business. If you are over 65 years of age, you have a one in four chance of visiting a hospital emergency room. If you’re over 65, there’s a 90 percent chance you’re on a prescription medication and an 18 percent chance you’ll require hospitalization.

Each year in the U.S., almost 100,000 people over the age of 65 are admitted into a hospital because

of emergencies caused by adverse drug events. Approximately one in five prescriptions in primary care is inappropriate, despite the large amount of attention focused on the prescription medication issue. From my experience overseeing thousands of medication “passes” as an operator of assisted living communities, physicians with a geriatric background or training make fewer mistakes.

Oh yes, mistakes are made. In fact, iatrogenic disease (treatment that causes death) represents the third largest cause of death in the U.S. Of the approximate 225,000 people who will die of this, half will be because of medication errors or negative drug effects.

If more than one physician is prescribing drugs, make sure they know what each other is doing. If a drug is added to a person’s “med list,” I always like to see one removed. While directing assisted living facilities, if a person seeking admission has more than seven drugs on their med list, it raises red flags, typically leading to a drug regimen review. Less is best.

Some of our strongest and most active residents were over 85 and took few, if any, medications.

So what do I recommend? It all starts with your physician. Does he or she have geriatric training? Unfortunately, while all medical schools have dedicated pediatric departments, few have geriatric departments. In 2000, there was one pediatrician for every 935 children, but only one geriatrician for every 3,888 elderly people. By some estimates, we’ll need some 30,000 additional geriatricians over the next 30 years.

Care, not treatment, is the better way. Proper diet, exercise and lifestyle are the keys to remaining or becoming healthy. There are dietary, environmental, genetic, and lifestyle causes for our disabilities, but understanding the underlying emotional and spiritual causes behind chronic disease is also important as our medical paradigm evolves. ■

March 2013

Free help with your tax returns

By Marsha Kearns

A

lthough both death and taxes are inevitable, some people swear they would rather die first than do their taxes. Fortunately, help is at hand, even through tax season. For more than 40 years, AARP-sponsored Tax-Aide volunteers have helped people in Mesa County understand and complete their federal and state tax returns.

“We have the best volunteers in Mesa County,” Tax-Aide District Coordinator Marie Walz said. “All of us are recertified each year to make sure we understand the ever-changing tax laws.”

Many volunteers serve through RSVP, a local nonprofit that recruits and places seniors in volunteer positions. Others are former clients. They come from all walks of life and share one important mission: they want to help people save money and gain peace of mind.

This vital service is available to everyone, no matter your income level, age, and whether or not you are an AARP member. Walz, 69, makes sure groups of well-trained, dedicated volunteers are available at convenient locations and times.

“Without our fabulous site hosts and their generosity in donating us space—U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo, Goodwill, and Alpine Bank—we would not be able to function,” Walz said. “We owe our success to them and our volunteers.”

Trained and trusted tax preparers “The IRS trains and monitors us more than they do paid preparers,” Walz said.

Your privacy and confidentiality are ensured by encrypted computer programs.

Even if you think you don’t need to file a tax return, you might want to come in and talk to a counselor to make sure you don’t miss any potential benefits. It might just be that you qualify for refund credits, such as PTC104 (property tax, rent, or

resource directory highlight 27

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

heat rebate credit) worth up to $722— sent to you by check quarterly when you qualify. Seasonal workers with ITINs, even with no Social Security Number, can get help. Tax-Aide is happy to provide services for these legal workers who contribute so much to our economy and community.

“It’s our yellow pages for seniors” uRce

tOry Direc

Res

First come, first served

ce Res uR

y DirectOr

No appointment is necessary, and none are made, so no need to call ahead. Simply come to any Tax-Aide location below and bring these documents: • Social Security card or an accurate record of taxpayer identification numbers for all individuals involved, including your dependents

unty

d Co arfiel

ow p

e yell

“It’s th

rs.”

senio

rG ages fo

b at .com the We News Now oneaconSenior www.B

2O11

PMS 660

C 90 M 50 Y 0 K 0

PMS 123

C 0 M 25 Y 100 K 0

• Driver’s license or state ID card • All income documents—W2s and 1099s (for the past three years, if possible) • Unemployment statements

N 2013 Ew E AVA DITION ILAB LE

w pages for

“It’s the yello

2O12

Res uRce

DirectOry

s.”

pe senior

Western Slo

Web at s.com Now on the eniorNew www.BeaconS PMS 660

PMS 123

C 90 M 50 Y 0 K 0

C 0 M 25 Y 100 K 0

• A voided check with account and routing numbers for direct deposit of refunds • A copy of last year’s tax return is helpful (but not required) • Documents showing state and federal taxes withheld • Receipts for things you think can be itemized

• Mesa County • Montrose-Delta • Garfield County

“It’s the yellow pa

ges for Weste

2O13

PMS 660

PMS 123

C 90 M 50 Y 0 K 0

C 0 M 25 Y 100 K 0

rn Slope senior

s.”

Now on the web at www.BeaconS enio

rNews.com

Tax-Aide locations and times Grand Junction • U.S. Bank, Lower Level, 422 White Ave. -Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through April 15 • Goodwill Retail Center, 630 24-1/2 Rd. -Thurs., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. through March 14 -Fri., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. through April 13 -Sat., 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. through April 13 • Wells Fargo Bank, Lower Level, 2808 North Ave. -Tues., Thurs., and Sat., 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. through April 13 Fruita • Fruita Alpine Bank, 125 N. Park Square, -Wed. and Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through April 13 ■

Get your Free copies!

Call 970 243-8829 “I have had many of my clients tell me that they have seen my ad in the Beacon’s Senior ReSouRce Directory. I feel the continuity of being in the Beacon every month along with the yearly ReSouRce Directory, which stays with most people’s telephone books, gets me the best bang for my buck!”

– Valerie a. Begalle, Reverse Mortgage Specialist

28

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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

ASK ABOUT OUR DEMENTIA & ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT CLASSES

What better gift to give than your smile?

Volunteering profoundly changes lives!

Opportunities in many areas: Patient & Family Support

Grief Support • Heirlooms • Administrative

Call 257-2378 and become a volunteer today.

Remembering honor and championship

By Patti G. Hoff, Brass Frog Bookworks

S

ometimes we forget that big things can happen in small places.

In the late 1950s and early ‘60s, the population of Grand Junction was perhaps 15,000. A small agricultural and mining town is hardly the place one would expect a new page in sports history to be written, but it was.

First-time author and native-born Grand Junction resident Ray Coca poignantly recounts his experience of being part of that history-making event in his new book “Elite U.S. Dream Team – A Wrestling Story.”

While a group of young high school wrestlers were learning the art of grappling, two unlikely men happened to meet on the other side of the world. At that moment, the stars aligned, and circumstances were set in motion for recruiting and training the first international high school wrestling competition to take place in Japan.

But the depth of Coca’s story doesn’t stop there. While an unimaginable world of opportunity opened up to him through sports, Coca privately struggled with poverty, discrimination and tragedy. He

Native-born Grand Junction resident Ray Coca recounts his experience as a young wrestler in his book “Elite U.S. Dream Team - A Wrestling Story.”

Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado www.hospicewco.com

March 2013

overcame his challenges and earned his place on the international team as well as the Colorado record books.

For anyone who believes the impossible can happen—that dreams can come true, this story will reach out and grip your heart and senses.

The occurrence not only etched a place in wrestling history, but opened the door of opportunity for an amazing group of young men from Colorado and Oklahoma. It will make you laugh and bring a tear to your eye as you follow small-town youths who pour out every ounce of strength and stamina as they enter a world of experiences beyond their wildest dreams.

The significance of this amazing sporting event is punctuated by the fact that it took place not many years after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Two completely different cultures came together in the innocence of youth and learned the meaning of honor and championship.

Coca’s book, “Elite U.S. Dream Team – A Wrestling Story” is available at Walgreens at First Street and Patterson in Grand Junction.

More information at www.brassfrogbook works.com. ■

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Is Office 2013 right for me?

Ask the computer guy

By Daniel Ashurst, Owner, Alpine Computer Solutions

The new direction that many software companies are pursuing, or will likely be pursuing in the near future, is subscriptionbased software. What that means is you will be, generally speaking, renting the software rather than purchasing it.

From a software company standpoint, this is good for business, as it ensures annual income, even if there are no software upgrades. Recently, Microsoft has released their latest version of Office—Office 2013—and has changed some of the rules.

For instance, you can no longer buy the installation disc for this latest version of Office. You buy the key code, and then you will have to download the installer.

Also, in previous versions of Office, when you purchased Microsoft Office Home and Student, you could install it on up to three computers in the same household.

Here are answers to some of the questions you might have about Office 2013.

Q. How many computers can you install Office 2013 Home and Student on?

One and only one!

Q. If the computer that you first installed Office 2013 on fails and needs to be replaced, can you reinstall Office 2013 on the replacement computer?

Not necessarily. Office 2013 is now irrevocably tied to the actual computer

hardware ID it is first installed on. If the computer fails, if the motherboard has to be replaced, currently, you are at the mercy of Microsoft and their current policies are vague at best.

Q. Why would Microsoft do this?

Bottom line? Money. It would appear that Microsoft is trying to drive consumers to use their Office 365 subscription plan.

Q. Are there any benefits in using Office 365?

Yes. For instance, Office 365 Home Premium includes more software than Office Home and Student. You also get Microsoft Publisher and Outlook. You can install Office 365 Home Premium on up to five computers. Anytime Office is updated, Office 365 is also updated to the latest versions.

Q. What does a subscription for Office Home Premium 365 cost? $99.99 annually.

Q. Would a subscription be cost effective?

If you actually use five computers in your home and need Office on all of them, it would be worth it. If you have just one computer, not so much. ■ Email your questions to Daniel Ashurst with Alpine Computer Solutions at solutions@alpinepc.com or mail them to the BEACON at P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502. For professional assistance, call Daniel at 234-1011 or Alpine Computer Solutions at 257-1011.

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

ask the computer guy 29

30 Finance

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Taking care of Mom and Dad: a labor of love with possible tax breaks

By Teresa Ambord

T

aking care of our elderly parents is something that we do just because we’re family and we love them. But an additional tax break or two wouldn’t hurt. Even if your parent does not live in the same home as you, you may be eligible for some help at tax time.

Here’s what you need to know.

If you provide your parent with regular financial support, you may be able to take a dependency exemption for him or her. In 2012, that exemption is equal to $3,800.

To qualify, the following must be true:  Your parent does not file a joint tax return for the year.  He or she must have gross income less than $3,800 in 2012. This does not include the nontaxable portion of Social Security payments.  You must provide more than half of your parent’s financial support.

(See sidebar for details about what is and is not support.)

Important planning point! After you tally up how much you have paid versus how much your parent has paid, if you find you are borderline, it may pay for you to kick in a little extra to push yourself over the halfway point. Keep an itemized list of your support versus your parent’s support, and attach it to your copy of tax records. For an additional exemption of $3,800, it could be well worth the effort.

What if your siblings also contribute?

If you and your siblings share the support of a parent, you may be able to set up a “multiple support agreement” by filing an IRS Form 2120.

Basically, this means that although two or more of you contribute to the support of a parent, only one is allowed to take the dependency exemption. You may decide to alternate among the siblings so the others can take the benefit, too. Just keep in mind that only siblings who pay more than 10 percent of the parent’s

support can qualify. For the sake of family harmony, also put the agreement between siblings in writing.

Do you pay medical expenses for your parent?

If you pay for at least half of your parent’s financial support, you may also be able to deduct amounts you pay for his or her unreimbursed medical expenses by adding them to your own medical expenses. This is generally true even if your parent is not your dependent and does not live in your home.

Of course, it’s seldom a slam-dunk to deduct unreimbursed medical expenses on your return, no matter who they are for, because they have to exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. And then only the amount that actually surpasses this hurdle is deductible.

Unreimbursed expenses include your share of health insurance premiums, co-payments for doctor visits and prescription drugs, dental and vision care costs, amounts paid before insurance deductibles are covered, and medical expenses paid for your parent if you provide more than 50 percent of support. You can also include qualified long-term care insurance premiums subject to age-based limits. For individuals age 51-60, the maximum amount paid for long-term care insurance that you can treat as a medical expense in 2012 is $1,310.

For those age 61-70, the maximum is $3,500. For those older than 70, the maximum is $4,370. You can also deduct part of the fees you pay for your parent to enter and reside in a retirement home that provides medical and nursing care. Often that is enough to push you over the threshold.

Hired help to care for your parent If your parent cannot be left alone while you work (or go to school full time, or actively search for work, or if you are disabled) and you must pay someone to stay with him or her, this cost might qualify as a medical expense. Better still, the money you

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

pay out might get you a credit for dependent care. Be aware, this does not mean a babysitter. The person must provide nursing-type services, and the amounts you pay must not be reimbursed.

Credits are generally more valuable than deductions, because they are subtracted dollar for dollar from your tax bill while deductions lower the income on which you are taxed.

This credit is also possible if you are actively searching for a job, if you are a full-time student, or if you are disabled. The amount depends on your income.

Filing status boost If you are a taxpayer who must file your tax return as “single,” your parent may make you eligible to file as “head of household” instead, causing you to owe fewer taxes. In order to file as head of household, you must pay more than half of the costs of maintaining a home for your parent, and your parent must be your dependent (although he or she does not have to live with you). For example, your mother who lives in a retirement home can still qualify you to file as head of household if you meet the other standards.

Your tax preparer should be able to answer any questions you might have about the tax benefits available. Tax

breaks or not, we take care of our own. After all, what comes around goes around, and they took care of us from day one. Tax assistance provides a little extra cushion so that we can take care of Mom and Pop more easily. ■

Support includes the cost of items like food, medical and dental expenses, a place to live, transportation and furniture. The IRS states that your parent’s funds are not considered support unless they are actually spent for support.

An example: Your mother received $2,400 in Social Security benefits and $300 in interest.

She paid $2,000 for lodging and $400 for recreation. She put $300 in a savings account. Even though your mother received a total of $2,700 ($2,400 + $300), she spent only $2,400 ($2,000 + $400) for her own support. If you spent more than $2,400 for her support and no other support was received, you have provided more than half of her support.

What does not count as support?  Federal, state, and local income taxes paid by persons from their own income  Social Security and Medicare taxes paid by persons from their own income  Life insurance premiums  Funeral expenses

iss it!

D o n’t M

Saturday, March 9, 2013 Three seatings! 1:00, 3:00, or 5:00

Covenant Presbyterian Church, 237 32 Road call adults :

434-LOVE for reservations $12.50❖ages 6-12: $6.00❖ children under 5 : free

Are you tired of... *constantly suffering from discomfort? *not able to sleep at night? *taking prescription drugs all the time? *unable to lose weight?

Are you looking for ways to take care of your health more naturally and safely without harmful side effects? We may have an answer for you! Contact us for a free consultation! email :

website:

giftofearth@gmail.com www.midoridistribution.com

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

More about support

19th Annual Roast Beef Dinner

Midori Distribution LLC ~ Health & Wellness company (970) 216-7838 or (970) 985-8073

“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.”

31

Specializing in Reverse Mortgages

Judy Williamson

Reverse Mortgage Consultant CO MLO License # 100039270 NMLS ID #853837

NMLS ID #98161

Phone: (970) 623-1387

email: jwilliamson@s1l.com Regulated by Division of Real Estate.

Call today to receive my FREE educational packet!

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

32 Crossword puzzle

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com LEAVING INSTRUCTIONS Richard W. Lewis, Funeral Director

Yoga for Seniors with a

Therapeutic Approach One week of free unlimited yoga.

970-683-0166 1048 Independent Avenue A207 www.academyofyoga.com www.facebook.com/academyofyoga www.integrativewellnesstoday.com

Wheelchair Lifts Hand Controls Wheelchair Securement Systems Preventative Maintenance Safety Training www.yourmobilityfreedom.com (970) 243-9977 215 South 15th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 Dennis Lopas Owner Certified Technician

PERMAnEnT HAIR REMOVAL • facial hair • eyebrows • back hair • chest hair

970-639-0004 970-560-4924

by appointment only

Mention this ad and get 30 minute free session. www.electrolysisbysonya.com

Sometimes, even those who have made all the correct moves concerning their estate plans and funeral planning forget one very important detail.

Without a letter of instruction, surviving family members may not have the information necessary to put your plan into action. Once written up, the list should be reviewed periodically and discussed openly with family members, as well as making sure they know where to find it.

Here is a basic list what you should include in your letter: 1. The location of all important documents: Your will, any Power of Attorney documents, birth certificate, marriage certificate, military discharge papers, income tax returns, insurance policies, deeds, social security card, checking account books, savings account books, certificates of deposit, credit cards and statements, and your prearranged funeral plan or your burial/cremation instructions. Heirlooms bequests, medical history, obituary/Legacy information.

2. Passwords for your computer, all email accounts, all online banking, credit card and store accounts, and all websites you have subscribed to so that these can be terminated upon your passing. Keep this list updated regularly.

3. Names, addresses and phone numbers of all key contacts, such as lawyer, financial advisor, bank, insurance agent, funeral home, current and former employers (especially if you are still entitled to benefits through your previous employers), etc.

4. Location of any safety or security bank boxes and a list of their contents. Include any necessary accessing information such as a phrase or password that might be needed.

5. A list of your debts and approximate balance. Also update this list as often as possible.

Our free Personal Planning Guide® provides easy access for those who will have to settle your affairs once you are gone. It does not have to be handled by an attorney.

This is something you can do for yourself… for your family.

Here at Martin Mortuary, your local Dignity Memorial® provider, we are available to help you in your time of need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 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 setup an appointment, or visit our website: MartinMortuary.com.

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

March 2013

Crossword Puzzle

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

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

39 On the mat 43 Honshu shrine -center 44 Cartoon expletive 45 Hearth bit 46 “Leaving Las Vegas” girl 48 Inappro-priate 51 Prime minister Moro 52 Hoops great Willis 54 Bonanza dad 56 Sacred text of Islam 58 Oliver Twist’s request 59 Greek letter 62 Blue 65 Auerbach and Buttons 66 Sovereign state began in 1937 67 Longest river in France 68 Robin’s -residence 69 Paper for the house 70 Single-celled micro-organism Down 1 Early -socialist presidential candidate Eugene 2 Popular cookie 3 Non-dancer at the dance 4 Ike’s W.W.II domain 5 More humble in status 6 Libyan hot spot 7 “Rag Mop” brothers 8 Matter for the courts 9 Flood 10 Say nay!

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

19 School builder?

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

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

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

64 “Me ___ !”

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Creating caring communities with ShareFest SHAREFESTWEEKEND

By Melanie Wiseman & Barbara Ward

“T

who want to invest themselves in their community, with a vision to create lasting, positive change. People of all ages can volunteer. Fifty different churches have participated, as well as many businesses and nonprofits.

“It is self-fulfilling and just feels good,” Rita said. “It’s more the ability to help people and make their life a little easier. It goes back to the teachings from the Lord. You meet wonderful people and they are so grateful.”

There are a variety of jobs to be done. Other than cleaning, yard work and being able to swing a hammer, thousands of cookies are baked for volunteers and the families they help.

Sometimes projects include sewing curtains, making sack lunches or just visiting with people.

Jan Gammill, 64, volunteers every year with her young grandchildren. to “What Our Community thrills me the most is doing things with my grandchildren,” she said. “Seeds are being planted in young children when they experience giving without receiving in return, except for the joy of helping someone else.”

ShareFest originated out of Little Rock, Arkansas in 1999, and is now held at different times across the U.S. ShareFest also takes place in Montrose on April 27. ShareFest was brought to Montrose in 2006 and is currently under the direction of volunteer Carolyn Hickerson.

“We would love to see this become a year-long program, eventually,” Hickerson said.

Last year, about 500 volunteers provided services to 185 clients, including local residents, schools, public buildings and nonprofits. There is no cost to submit a project, but donations are accepted and appreciated.

To request help or to volunteer with the Grand Valley ShareFest, call 778-4880 or visit www.gjsharefest. com. Submit projects by April 1.

In Montrose, call 249-5270 to submit a project or volunteer. Projects must be submitted by March 25. ■

April 24&25, 2010

here are people out there with needs. God gave me talents which I can use to help them.”

Tom Crumpton, 62, and his wife, Rita, 68, are just two of 1,500 Grand Valley residents who volunteer each April with ShareFest. ShareFest is a weekend event with the mission “to show the love of Christ in tangible ways,” according to local coordinator Debe Colby.

The sixth annual Grand Valley ShareFest takes place April 13 and 14.

Individuals and families with needs such as painting, repairs, window cleaning and yard work, can submit a request for help from volunteers over ShareFest weekend. “[Last year] We helped a homebound woman and her aging husband by building deck, Demonstrating thea new Love of stairs Christ and handicap ramp on the front of their house,” Tom said. “It freed them up to get out and have a life.”

As many as 1,400 need requests are submitted each year. A team assesses the requests to determine whether nonprofessional volunteers are able to do the jobs. ShareFest organizers also get referrals for assistance from churches, the Department of Human Services and other agencies.

Bonnie Bunte, 84, has received help from ShareFest volunteers for many years.

“The first time it was hard to ask for help,” Bunte said. “Every bit of it I used to do myself. It’s really difficult to admit I can’t do it anymore. It’s fun to have the volunteers around. The friendships are wonderful.”

ShareFest makes many positive impacts on a community. Volunteers meet new people and make a difference by changing lives.

“It’s a turnabout,” Bunte said. “I’ve been there for others in the past. I always received ‘thank yous,’ but because of ShareFest, I now understand how special those two words are.”

ShareFest is looking for volunteers

A CITY WIDE EVENT

What can we do for you?

faith moves 33

sharefestweekend SHAREFESTWEEKEND April 13 & 14, 2013 April 24&25, 2010

2013 • Anyone can submit a project.

• Deadline for submitting projects is April 1st.

A CITY WIDE EVENT • Anyone can volunteer even if you don’t attend a local church.

• Project needs can include everything from helping clean up your Demonstrating the Love of Christ to Our Community yard to turning a mattress to washing windows to starting up your sprinklers to helping your neighborhood do a general clean-up.

778-4880

www.g jsharefest.com

What can we do for you?

34 Mesa county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mesa County Calendar Compiled by Cloie Sandlin March 4

Firkin fundraiser for Roice-Hurst Kannah Creek Brewing Company’s brewers will be hand tapping a firkin keg at 5 p.m. with 100 percent of the sales, plus any cash donations, going directly to Roice-Hurst Humane Society. Pints are $4 each. The beer is a special blend named Lupie Leprechaun. This is the only time the beer will be available. Kannah Creek is located at 1960 N. 12th St. in Grand Junction.

March 6

Are you new to Medicare?

The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) will hold an educational session from 10 a.m. to noon, specifically for new Medicare beneficiaries at RSVP, 422 White Ave. in the lower level of the U.S. Bank Building. Seating is limited so call 243-9839 to reserve your spot.

March 6-9

Pirates of Penzance “The Pirates of Penzance” is a fastpaced, fun, often irreverent comic operetta that tells the tale of tender-

Join us for an enchanting evening of brilliant music for Duos & Trios

GRAND JUNCTION: 1st United Methodist Church, Fri. March 15, 7:30 pm PAONIA: Lamborn Concert Hall, Sat. March 16, 7:30 pm MONTROSE: Pavilion, Sun. March 17, 3:00 pm

Brilliant Romanian pianist Anca Lupu joins cellist partner Gabe Meintka for exciting cello-piano works, and then they both team up with violinist favorite Marcin Arendt for a great romantic trio!

“Award-winning artists in a unique collaboration - don’t miss this event!”

TICKET OUTLETS: online at

TICKET PRICES: beginning at $9 in advance $12 at the door -

www.JunctionConcerts.com

ALL SEATS RESERVED

Grand Junction: Roper Music Montrose: Pavilion Paonia: Farm & Home

Call 241-4579 for more info

hearted “orphan” pirates, reluctant policemen, earnest lovers and an eccentric major-general, all of whom are ridiculously bound by the dictates of duty. CMU’s production of “The Pirates of Penzance” features a full, live orchestra and is appropriate for all ages. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 248-1604.

March 9

Celtic Fire

March 9

One Book, One Mesa County Author Event Come to our One Book, One Mesa County finale, where author Peter Heller will discuss his novel “The Dog Stars.” This event is at the Avalon Theatre and admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The presentation begins at 7 p.m. Books will be available for purchase and there will be a book signing following the presentation. For more information, call 243-4442.

The Mesa County Concert Association presents Celtic Fire at Grand Junction High School Auditorium, 1400 N. Fifth St. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., curtain at 7:30 p.m. This dazzling Irish music and dance show was born out of a classical chamber music series and brings a unique approach to Celtic music. This show appeals to all ages. If seating is available after 7:15 p.m., tickets for this performance may be purchased at the box office. Adults are $25. For information, call 243-1979 or visit www. mesacountyconcertassociation.org.

March 9

Buying for CASH!

March 15

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!

As part of the Western Slope Concert Series, brilliant Romanian pianist Anca Lupu joins cellist Gabe Mientka for exciting cello-piano works, and then they both team up with violinist Marcin Arendt for a fantastic and beautiful romantic trio. This concert takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 522 White Ave. in Grand Junction Tickets are $9 to $24 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at www.junctionconcerts. com or by calling 241-0741.

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.JunctionConcerts.com

March 2013

970.261.8368

Harlem Ambassadors come to Fruita The Harlem Ambassadors will visit Fruita for a game at Fruita Monument High School at 7 p.m. The Harlem Ambassadors offer a unique brand of Harlem-style basketball, featuring high-flying slam dunks, dazzling ballhandling tricks and hilarious comedy routines. They have partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction to help raise funds for charitable organizations. Tickets are on sale for $10 for adults and can be purchased at www.kiwanis-gj.org, from any member or by calling 270-6162.

Cello-piano concert

March 15

Oboe concert Music at Mesa will present Martin Schuring in an oboe recital at 7:30 p.m. in the Moss Performing Arts Center Recital Hall at Colorado Mesa University. Schuring will be accompanied by CMU music faculty, Dr. Arthur Houle. The two will present a program of music that includes works by G.P. Telemann, Gaetano Donizetti and Camille Saint-Saens.

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Schuring has previously held orchestral positions with the Hong Kong Philharmonic, The Florida Orchestra and the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and are available at the box office by calling 248-1604.

at Colorado Mesa University. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors and can be purchased at the door or by calling the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra box office at 2436787, or at www.gjsymphony.org.

March 15 & 16

Las Americas Piano Trio concert

Relay for Life Craft Fair Passion 4 Purple is a craft and vendor fair by Relay For Life. The fair takes place from 2 p.m.-9 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday at the Clarion Inn, 755 Horizon Drive in Grand Junction. Admission is free.

March 16

Chili lunch fundraiser Enjoy a delicious chili lunch and support our troops through Operation Interdependence. A bowl of chili, including coffee or tea and dessert, costs $2, but enjoy all you can eat for only $5. Lunch starts at 1 p.m. and takes place at the VFW Post 1247, 1404 Ute Ave. in Grand Junction. There will also be door prize drawings and a silent auction for hand decorated birdhouses. For more information, call 523-4217 or email carley@oidelivers.org.

March 18 & 19

Let Freedom Sing The Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra and Western Colorado Chorale perform this patriotic concert at 7:30 p.m. both nights at the Moss Performing Arts Center Recital Hall

March 21 Las Americas Piano Trio will present a program of all-American composers at 7:30 p.m. in the Moss Performing Arts Center Recital Hall at Colorado Mesa University. The program will include Arthur Foote’s highly romantic “Trio Op. 5,� Brent Cramer’s delightful “Dallas Strut� and Paul Schonfield’s jazz-influenced “Cafe Music.�

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and are available by calling 248-1604.

March 21

Veterans square dance Polish your best boots for a fun square dance at the Fruita Community Center, 324 N. Coulson Ave., sponsored by the Grand Junction Veterans’ Golden Age Games Team.

People of all skill levels are welcome.

Learn the calls and steps or show off your skills. Dance takes place from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. and is only $6 per person. Proceeds help with the team’s travel costs to the 2013 National Games in Buffalo, New York. For more information, call team member Chuck Ackerman at 303-548-5789. â–

! # % ! !

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

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

River City Singles

Mesa county 35

March 2013 Activity Schedule

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

Friday Afternoon Club 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. Call Jim Spiegel at 424-2545 for details.

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

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

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

March 6 - Red Lobster - 575 24 1/2 Road March 13 - Ale House - 2531 N. 12th St. March 20 - Fiesta Guadalajara - 710 North Ave. March 27 - Sang Garden - 687 Horizon Drive Sundays at 12:30 p.m. - It’s Bowling Sunday followed by card games at Orchard Mesa Lanes, 295 27 Road. RSVP to Bob Lewis at 263-8462.

Saturdays at 10 a.m. (weather permitting) - As part of the Saturday Morning Bike Ride, meet at Albertsons on the Redlands for an easy ride along the Colorado River Trail. Call John Delehanty at 241-3171 for details.

Saturday, March 2 - Join friends at noon for lunch and a pool tournament at Bank 8 Billiards, 2460 F Road (across from Barnes & Noble). This is a partners tournament. The winners will receive a cash reward. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, call Jim Spiegel at 424-2545.

Saturday, March 9 - The St. Patrick’s Day potluck will be held at 4 p.m. at the Lakeside Community Center, 3150 Lakeside Drive. RCS will provide the corned beef, condiments, and eating utensils. Bring a complimentary side dish, appetizer or dessert and BYOB. RSVP to Judie Chapin at 639-2197 or sign up at the FAC. Saturday, March 14 - Jim Spiegel is hosting a day trip to Glenwood Springs for a dip in the hot springs pool followed by lunch. Bring you bathing suit and a towel. Meet at the Safeway on Horizon Drive at 9 a.m. to carpool. Sign up at the FAC or RSVP to Jim at 424-2545.

Thursdays - Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers senior discounts to ski all day on Thursdays. For a few dollars more, you can participate in the ‘Après Ski’ afterwards. You must register by 8:30 a.m. All ski levels welcome. Call John Delehanty at 241-3171 for details and if you’d like to carpool. You can also call to arrange a place to meet upon arrival.

36 Mesa county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mesa County Beacon Bits Free tax preparation Free federal/state tax preparation is available to taxpayers of all ages through AARP Tax-Aide. Tax-Aide Colorado volunteers are trained, certified, experienced and ready to assist you with your personal tax preparation at one of these locations: • U.S. Bank basement, 422 White Ave., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday • Wells Fargo Bank basement, 2808 North Ave., 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday • Alpine Bank (Fruita), 125 N. Park Square, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday and Friday • Goodwill, 630 24-1/2 Road, 1 p.m.5 p.m. Thursday (through March 14) and Friday (through April 13) and 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays

Senior Softball Sign up for senior softball, open to men and women age 50 and older.

It’s great fun and exercise. To sign up, call Carl at 255-6688.

MDS changes name to Strive Mesa Developmental Services, a local nonprofit serving people with disabilities, announced a rebranding of their organization. The new name is “Strive” with the tag line “People Supporting People,” which represents the goals of the organization, the staff and the people they support, whose mission is to strive for the best possible life for all, supporting people with challenges to become more independent, self-sufficient and contributing members of their community. For more information, call 256-8640.

Support Groups • Mending Hearts Support Group is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. This group meets from 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Miller Homestead, 3090 N. 12th St. This is a free service provided by Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado. Call Paul at 683-3202 for more information.

• Caregiver Connections is a support group open to all caregivers.

This group meets from 10 a.m.11:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Miller Homestead, 3090 N. 12th St. This is a free service provided by Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado.

Call Terry at 260-8931 for more information.

• MACHO Men, a cancer support group, meets at 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at St. Mary’s Hospital’s Oncology Conference Room and the fourth Wednesday at St. Mary’s Java City Café. Call 298-2351 or 858-1301 for details.

Volunteer opportunities • RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in any of our member agencies. For a list of volunteer opportunities and to register, call 243-9839.

• Hospice & Palliative Care is seeking volunteers for a variety of positions. For more information, call Diane at 257-2378.

• Homeward Bound is always in need of volunteers. Call 256-9424 for details.

• Operation Interdependence needs volunteers to write notes for the troops, help collect products and pack civilian rations. For more information, call 523-4217.

• Gray Gourmet needs several adult volunteers to deliver a weekday lunch to homebound seniors in the Grand Valley. Volunteers are also needed to work at one of our senior dining sites one day per week. For more information, call 243-9844.

• Harden Hospice needs volunteers to help patients tell their life story.

Training is provided. Volunteer office support positions are also available.

Call 210-5912 for details.

March 2013 • St. Mary’s Foster Grandparent Program needs volunteers to help tutor and mentor school children that are at risk for developmental delays.

Call Tanya at 263-9091.

• St. Mary’s Senior Companion Program needs volunteers to provide companionship and assistance to a senior in need. Call Tamara at 263-9092.

Club activities • Western Slope Coin Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the Redlands Community Center. Know the real value of your coins and currency with a free evaluation before the meeting at 5:30 p.m. Call 241-1770 or 245-4141 for details, or visit www. gjcoinshow.com.

• Friendship Force is a nonprofit cultural exchange organization establishing friendships worldwide.

They meet at 6:30 p.m. every second Thursday of the month in Community Hospital’s lower level conference room. Call 244-1625 or visit www. thefriendshipforce.org for details.

• Talk of the Town Toastmasters invite you to join their weekly Thursday meetings from noon to 1 p.m. at the Business Incubator. Call 244-1625 for details.

• 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 with their sport and classic vehicles. For details, call 462-6762 or visit www.grandval leyknights.com.

• Vestafjell Lodge, Sons of Norway will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a corned beef and cabbage dinner at 2 p.m. on March 10 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church. Entertainment will be provided by Close Harmony Barbershop Quartet. Cost is $8 for adults. Guests are welcome.

For details, call Barb at 245-5649 or visit www.vestafjelllodge.org.

• Two River Sams Chapter Good Sam RV Club will meet at noon on March 9. For location, call 523-5625 or 270-0471.

• Knights of Columbus invites the public to a fish fry at 4 p.m.-7 p.m. every Friday through March 22 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.

March 2013 Adults are $8 and children age 6-12 are $7. Call 260-7664 for details.

• Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Commons of Hilltop and at noon on the fourth Wednesday of the month (bring a lunch) at the Museum of Western Colorado. A help session is at 1 p.m. on the first Friday of the month at one of the Mesa County libraries. For details, call 245-5312.

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

RSVP to 248-0815.

• Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. every Thursday at the Masonic Lodge. Call 261-1670 for details.

• Happy Feet Rounds meets at the Masonic Lodge 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.

Call 243-5858 for details.

• 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 the second and fourth Wednesdays at the Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or 523-5965 for details.

• Levis & Lace Square Dance Club hosts square dances from 7 p.m.9:30 p.m. every Friday at the Masonic

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Lodge. Call 216-8503 or 434-6541 for details.

• Art Jewelers Guild meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Grandview Apartments, 1501 N. First St. Call 243-1220 for details.

• Stamp Collectors meet the second Wednesday at White Star Electric at 7 p.m. For details, call 986-1502.

• Western Slope Non-Smoking Singles has potlucks on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 6 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church.

They have dinner on the third Wednesday of the month and have monthly outings. Call 434-5277 for details.

• Mesa Fiberarts Guild meets at noon the first Wednesday of the month at First Presbyterian Church, and at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the City Clerk’s Office break room. Visit www.mesafiberar tsguild.org for details.

• Grand Junction Christian Women’s Network invites all women to lunch at 12:15 p.m. on March 14 at the Clarion Inn. Cost is $14. Reservations required. Call 277-7468.

• Blue Lodge Masons meet at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at the Masonic Lodge. Call 245-5312 for details.

• Knife & Fork Club meets on March 19 at Two Rivers Convention Center. For time, cost and information, call 245-0563. ■

Mesa county 37

Are you missing one or more teeth?

Do you have a loose denture or partial that you wish was more stable? Have you thought about dental implants but have questions or concerns?

At Grand Dental we can help you solve any dental problem. All of your treatment will be done here, in our state of the art office, by Dr. Eric Benefield, who graduated #1 in his dental class in 2003.

1035 Grand Ave., Grand Junction, CO 81501 | (970) 243-8580 | www.mygranddental.com

Call us today for a complimentary consultation which will include FREE x-rays.

Call Now! 243-8580

Senior Homecare by Angels

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

38

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Gotta Be band releases new CD

G

New Or 500 OFF Any Pre-Owned Vehicle

$

Advertised Specials EXCLUDED!

One Coupon Per Customer Per Sale Expires 4/30/13

ALIGNMENT SPECIAL

5995* 4 Wheel $ 95 Alignment 79 * Front End $ Alignment

DETAILING

Engine, Exterior & Interior

Exterior & Interior

*Cam bolts & Shams extra

Exterior only

Expires 4/30/13

$

95 34 * Oil Change Free 27-point Inspection

Free Tire Rotation & Car Wash Service Includes: Any Model

• Replace Oil Filter • Complete Chassis Lube

• Up to 5 Quarts of Quality Motor Oil

* Synthetic oil slightly higher. Excludes Diesels.

Plus shop supplies & disposal fees.

Expires 4/30/13

INJECTOR FLUSH INDUCTION SERVICE

$ $

119

95

11995

Good on all Makes & Models

Expires 4/30/13

15995 $ 11995 $ 5995 $

*Prices subject to inspection

Expires 4/30/13

GET YOUR AIR CONDITIONER READY FOR SPRING! $ 95

A/C Service

119

Includes 1 lb. of Freon

Expires 4/30/13

WE SELL TIRES!!

CALL US TODAY TO COMPARE With New Tire Purchase You Get Free Flat Repair and Free Rotation.

Road Hazard Available on Most Brands

Expires 4/30/13

otta Be is a popular band on the us,” Freeman said.

Western Slope, made up of three Having opened for such artists as Montrose women that play acoustic Eilen Jewell, Catie Curtis, Meagan music.

Tubb & the Shady People, and RoseGlenda Fletchall has been the main- anna Vitro, they navigate among stay of the group since 1987. Forseveral genres that emphasize vocal merly known as Gotta Be intricacies, rhythmic backgrounds, Girls (and at one point The and signature arSwing Beans), the group rangements. has fluctuated between Their sound two to five members over has been the years. compared at Fletchall plays rhythm times to artguitar, lead guitar, manists like Blame dolin and sings lead/ Sally, Bonnie background vocals. She Raitt, the Dixie is also the primary songChicks, or a writer for the group. female version Barb Bernhardt of Crosby, Stills joined the & Nash. group in Gotta Be 2007, addwants to deing bass and velop their banjo, and creative sings lead/ potential background as a group. vocals. MarThey’d like garet Freeto expand man joined their repertwo years toire, playlater, adding ing more an array of genres percussion of music, instruments, continuing including the to boogie djembe and for those cajon, and who come sings lead/ to dance and background entertaining vocals. those who The come to Gotta Be members from left to right: Barb Bernhardt, group’s sec- Margaret Freeman and Glenda Fletchall. listen. ond CD “Hot “Hot Flash!” will be released March 15.

Flash!” will be available, along with Lyrically, Gotta Be’s songs cover the band’s first CD, “’56 Chevy” topics that are sometimes serious (2010), at Around the Corner Art or historical, unexpected or hysteriGallery, 447 E. Main St. in Montrose cal, but always interesting. Musior at any Gotta Be gig. Don’t miss cally, their compositions range from their next performance along with upbeat tunes to traditional blues and three other bands at Pea Green at songs with a jazzy feel to beautiful 7 p.m. on March 23. ballads.

For more information, contact “Our sound is morphing from a Gotta Be at gottabe@animas.net or quartet to a trio, and we’re very exFletchall at 208-2675 or gfmusic@ cited about the possibilities ahead of animas.net. ■

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Delta/ Montrose counties 39

Delta/Montrose Calendar March 16

Hospice gala

Denny’s is the hot spot in Montrose to pick up your free BEACON. General Manager Tammy Burns said, “Our customers love to sit and eat a good meal and read the BEACON.” Compiled by Liesl Greathouse March 2

Basic beading class This class provides some ideas on design and color combinations, explains what tools can be used for what projects and explains the types of thread and wire available to make your design. This class is $5, plus the cost of the beads, and is from 3 p.m.5 p.m. at Petunia Beads, 535 Main St. in Delta. For more information, call 773-4035.

March 10

A champagne reception and silent auction will start the night off at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner and a live auction at 7:30 p.m. Then dance to live music at 9 p.m.

The gala is held at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive. Tickets are $100. For tickets and more information, call 240-7776.

Valley Youth Orchestra concert

The Valley Youth Orchestra will be hosting a dinner concert at Delta High School, 1400 Pioneer Road in Delta. Music will feature pieces from around the world. The doors open at 4:30 p.m. for the silent auction, dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.valleysym phony.net/vyo or call 252-0552.

March 17

Cello-piano concert

The second annual scrabble tourament is held at the 2 Rascals Brewing Company, 147 N. First St. in Montrose. Registration is $20 and includes two free Rascals root beers and snacks. Proceeds benefit the Montrose Academic Booster Club.

Preregister by March 9. Call 433-8779.

March 14

March 23 & 24

Montrose County Health and Human Services will host the AARP Driver Safety Program from 8:30 a.m.1 p.m. at 1845 S. Townsend Ave. in Montrose. Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws. Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers. Preregistration required. Call 252-3431.

This Valley Symphony spring concert will feature a wide range of choral music. Concerts take place at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave. at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $20. Seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at www.valleysympho ny.net or by calling 209-2295. ■

AARP Driver Safety Program

• Dentures • Implants • Fillings • Root Canals • Cleanings • Extractions

March 16

Romanian pianist Anca Lupu joins cellist Gabe Mientka for exciting cello-piano works, and then they both team up with violinist Marcin Arendt for a brilliant romantic trio.

Concert is at 3 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive. Tickets are $9 to $24 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at www.junctioncon certs.com or by calling 241-0741.

Montrose Scrabble Tournament

ALL DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

Kaleidoscope of Sounds

50

$

Military and Uninsured  Patient Discounts Available  COUPON For First Visit

1127 East Main Street Montrose, Colorado 81401 www.danielhatchdds.com

Remember when checks were

green?

To advertise call Virginia Carlile 243-8829

Beac

paper s w e N r on Senio

40 Delta/ Montrose counties

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Delta/Montrose Beacon Bits Compiled by Liesl Greathouse

Events for veterans The Warrior Resource Center, 11 S. Park Ave. in Montrose, has the following events scheduled for veterans in March. If you have not previously registered with the Warrior Resource Center as a veteran, bring a form of military ID with you. For more information, call 765-2210.

• All veterans are invited for coffee from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. every Thursday.

• All military spouses are invited for coffee from 2:30 p.m.-3 p.m. every Thursday.

• The public is invited to eagle head cane presentations at 1 p.m. the first Thursday of every month.

Beautiful canes, created by the Black Canyon Wood Carvers and Wood Workers Guild of Western Colorado, are presented to veterans of any war or conflict.

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

• Jam with other veterans from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. every Friday night through March 22. Bring an instrument or just come enjoy the music.

Support groups • Veterans PTSD support group – This PTSD support group is open to combat veterans (not providers) and takes place at 10 a.m. on Thursdays at the Montrose Workforce Center, 504 N. First St. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214 as verification of eligibility of services from the Vet Center. For more information, call 245-4156.

• Stroke support group - 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 at 318-2028.

• Mending Hearts Support Group - This support group, offered by Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado, is open to adults who have experienced the death of a loved one.

• Delta group meets from 6 p.m.7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Hospice, 195 Stafford Lane. Call 874-6823 for more information.

• Montrose group meets from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. on Monday and 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday at the Bosom Buddies Room, 645 S. Fifth St. Call 252-2520 for more information.

Alpine Hospice name change Alpine Hospice has changed its name to Harden Hospice Colorado. This is part of a larger rebranding effort, and no operational changes are anticipated. Harden Hospice Colorado proudly provides services to Montrose, Delta, San Miguel, and Ouray counties along with service to Norwood, Nucla and Naturita. For more information, visit www.hardenhealthcare.com.

Montrose Recreation Foundation launches The Montrose Recreation Foundation has been formed with a vision of helping Montrose become a leading community in Colorado for recreational opportunities, and a local, anonymous citizen has already made a $10,000 donation. The Foundation plans to work closely with the Montrose Recreation District to accomplish its goals. The Foundation’s first commitment is to raise $3,000 to support the MRD/City of Montrose’s Great Outdoors Colorado grant application for a whitewater park, river trail and field renovation. For more information, call 275-6965.

Volunteer opportunities • Harden 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 275-6064.

• Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado in Delta and Montrose is seeking volunteers for a variety of positions. In Delta, call 874-6823 for more information. In Montrose, call 252-2642.

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Magic Circle Players present “Bus Stop” 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 lounge singer whom he is determined to marry. Throughout the long and sleepless night, the cowboy learns a few important lessons about life. Performances are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, March 10-17, at the Magic Circle Theatre, 420 S. 12th St. in Montrose. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors.

For showtimes and more information, call 249-7838.

Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days This year, Western Slope nonprofits will have a unique opportunity to connect with over 30 Colorado foundations at the 2013 Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days conference on June 17-19 in Ouray. The conference provides a opportunity for the state’s most influential funders to take part in workshops and collaborative events focused on the needs of Western Slope communities. Registration opens April 1. For more information, call 708-1059.

Delta Senior 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 or for a full list, call 874-0923.

for either private or semi-private swim lessons. Appointments are available from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. and 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Fridays. Cost is $75 for five 30-minute private, one-on-one lessons, and $50 for five 30-minute semi-private, two to three participant lessons.

CPR/First Aid/AED class An American Red Cross Lay Responder (Basic) CPR/FA/AED training class will be from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. March 16.

Cost is $80. Register by March 8.

Handgun safety course A handgun safety course will be from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 16. Class provides participants with safety requirements necessary to acquire a permit. Cost is $70. Must preregister by 5 p.m. March 13.

AARP Driver Safety Course Save on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws. The AARP Driver Safety class will be from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on March 18. Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non members.

Preregistration required.

Amateur Chess Tournament All ages are invited to the Amateur Chess Tournament from 10 a.m.6 p.m. on March 23. Cost is $10.

Registrations will be accepted until 9:30 a.m. the day of the tournament.

The tournament will consist of six rounds, each game with a limit of one hour.

Swimming lessons

Montrose Senior Activities

Private lessons are now offered throughout the year. Sign up anytime

The Montrose Recreation District has the following activities scheduled

MONTROSE ORAL SURGERY AND 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 Craig T. Cayo D.D.S., Dorcha W. Boisen D.D.S.

www.montroseoms.com

970.240.4485 • 600 S. Park Avenue • Montrose, CO 81401

for seniors 50 and older in March.

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.

• March 8, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Snowshoeing trip on Dave Wood Road. Cost is $15 with your own snowshoes, and $20 if we provide snowshoes.

• March 12, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

We will travel to Hobby Lobby, Mesa Mall, and Kohl’s in Grand Junction.

We will also stop at the shopping center with Michael’s, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ross, TJ Maxx and Sportsman’s Warehouse. Cost is $20. Bring money for lunch.

Delta/ Montrose counties 41 • March 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Every spring the Greater Sandhill Cranes begin their northward migration. The birds stop for an overnight stay to rest, feed, and regroup at Fruitgrower’s Reservoir in Eckert.

We will eat lunch at the Wildfire Grill and attend a presentation prior to watching the birds. Bring your camera. Cost is $18. Bring money for lunch.

• March 19, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Explore the beauty of Crawford. We begin with a tour of The North Rim Glass Studio, a glass blowing and design studio. We will then head to the Alexander Ridge Studio featuring quality carved gourds, handwoven and handspun items. Cost is $18.

Bring money for lunch.

• March 29, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sandhill Crane viewing and hiking in Delta area. Cost is $18. ■

Magic Circle Players Community Theatre Presents The Drama March 8 through March 23, 2013 Fridays & Saturdays 7:30 PM Sunday Matinees 10th & 17th 2:00 PM Call 970 249-7838 for information & reservations Box Office Hours: 2:00-5:00PM on Tuesday - Thursday and two hours before each performance

420 South 12th Street - Montrose, CO www.magiccircleplayers.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

42 Garfield county

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Subscribe to Vol. 32

AUGUst 2010

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

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 young pit-mix male page 4.

See our cover story on What’s Inside

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

Pets and their people

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

Local Lore

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

Vol. 24 No. 9

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

Parks & recreation

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Colorado Senior Games Your Guide to the Western

Photo by Karen

western colorado

Aug. 30-Sept. 3

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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.

name address city

state

zip

phone number credit card

exp. date

 New subscription  Renew subscription

Garfield County Calendar Compiled by Cheryl Currier March 6

Art in the Stacks artist reception The Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., will host a reception for freelance photographer Gail Zentmyer from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Gail works in both black and white and color.

She has lived in Colorado for the past 12 years. Gail captures the alluring way light plays on the subject whether it is a landscape, still life, lakes, rivers or wildlife. She has worked extensively with the Rifle Animal Shelter, photographing the animals for their yearly calendar. For more information, contact the library at 625-3471.

Park

stration form!

cvc

 1 year $15.00  2 years $25.00

March 9

Ukrainian Easter eggs Jaci Spuhler is returning to the New Castle Branch Library, 402 W. Main St., to guide classes through the traditional method of creating a Ukrainian egg for Easter. Classes take place at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Registration is required and there is a $3 materials fee. Space is very limited so register early.

To register for a class or for more information, contact the library at 984-2346.

March 9

Remember when

Beacon_

appliances were

white?

To advertise call Linda Lovendahl 243-8829

March 2013

Fantastic fondue Find out how to prepare all sorts of fondues, from classic cheese to delectable chocolate. This class is being held through the continuing education program of Colorado Mountain College.

The class will be held at the Rocky Mountain Baptist Church, 4199 W. Centennial Pkwy. at 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost is $28. To register, visit www. coloradomtn.edu/registration or pick up a non-credit registration form at

the Rifle campus, 3695 Airport Road.

Call 625-1871 for more information.

March 15-17

Guys and Dolls The Garden School is presenting their all school play at the Glenwood Springs High School Auditorium, 1521 Grand Ave. The Friday and Saturday performances take place at 7 p.m. and the Sunday performance takes place at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Buy tickets at the door or at www.gardenschool.org. Call 984-0604 for more information.

March 21

Free legal consultations Do you have civil legal questions? Volunteer attorneys will provide 10-minute private consultations about divorce, renter’s rights and other civil matters.

Meet at 5 p.m. at the Glenwood Springs Courthouse, 109 Eighth St., Suite 304. Bring leases, contracts or court papers related to your case. This event is sponsored by Alpine Legal Services. Call 945-8858 for more information. A small donation is asked for this service but no one will be denied service for lack of ability to pay.

March 29

“Wonder Women!” film screening

A free screening of this film will be held at the Colorado Mountain College Rifle Campus, 3695 Airport Road at 7 p.m. “Wonder Women!” tells the untold story of American super heroines and traces the fascinating evolution and legacy of Wonder Woman from the birth of the comic book in the 1940s to the blockbusters of today. The film explores how popular representations of powerful women often reflect society’s anxieties about women’s liberation. ■

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

March 2013

Garfield County Beacon Bits Compiled by Cheryl Currier

Play pinochle in Parachute Want to learn how to play pinochle or learn how to play better? A group of players, both novice and experienced, meets at 1:30 p.m. to about 4:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Valley Senior Center, 540 N. Parachute Ave. Enjoy pinochle, good company, a good time and snacks. Instructors are happy to assist everyone, and the group welcomes all ages to play and socialize. Call Cheryl at 285-9755 for more information.

Rifle Branch Library book clubs • The Friends of the Rifle Library meets at noon the third Tuesday of every month at the Rifle Library, 207 East Ave. Discuss great books with interesting people. Call the library at 625-3471 for the book list.

• For those who want to be part of a book club but don’t want to be told what to read, join the Whatever Book Club. Bring whatever book/ manga/graphic novel you are currently reading and share with the group your thoughts, opinions, and revelations. Snacks and refreshments are provided with varying book club activities from 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month.

Free tax preparation for seniors High Country RSVP will provide both federal and state income tax preparation if you qualify under federal guidelines. This free service is provided by IRS certified community volunteers to seniors, disabled individuals and low to moderate income persons. Call 384-8470 to make an appointment.

Civil War discussion series The Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 413 Ninth St., will host “Let’s Talk About It: Making Sense of the American Civil War.” Discussions will be held at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday between March 6 and April 10 (with no discussion on March 27).

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com IT’S YOUR CHOICE. CHOOSE THE BEST.

Associate Professor of American History at Colorado Mesa University Sarah Swedberg will provide background lectures and will lead the conversations on selected readings.

Reading materials are provided by the library. To register, call 945-5859.

Gardening classes Colorado Mountain College will be offering a series of gardening classes at the Rifle Campus, 3695 Airport Road. To register, call 625-1871, visit www.coloradomtn.edu/register or fill out a noncredit registration form available at the front office. Classes take place: • March 9, 9 a.m. to noon - Selecting the “Right” Edible. Learn how to select plants for your climate, be it sun, shade, wet or dry. Cost is $20.

• March 23, 10 a.m. to noon Growing the Greens. Learn all about lettuce and other greens to grow and use in your spring salad. Cost is $15.

Garfield county 43

WATER

WIND

FIRE

HAIL

MOLD

ASBESTOS

BIOHAZARD

HAZMAT

970.945.4407

24 7

E M E R G E N C Y

Attention

BEACON Advertisers FREE

door prizes

FREE

Admission

Got a booth? If you’re planning to participate in the area’s largest senior fair, it only makes sense to make the most of your investment by placing your ad in our BeaconFest Program. Not only do we insert the program into our April newspaper, but we also give the program away to each attendee. (You can’t print flyers for this cheap.)

Advertising Deadline: March 20, 2013 Publication Date: April 1, 2013

• March 30, 10 a.m. to noon Small acreage opportunities will be held on March 30. Explore the possibilities you may have with your small acreage including types of crops and animal enterprises that work for our locale. Cost is $15.

1.

Otto Mears: Pathfinder of the San Juans

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: April 20, 2013 Publication Date: May 1, 2013

This Winter Lecture Series continues at the Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 413 Ninth St., with a Chautauqua-style program at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 21. Otto Mears was a famous Colorado railroad builder and entrepreneur who played a major role in the early development of southwestern Colorado. He was known as the “Pathfinder of the San Juans” because of his road and railroad building projects through Colorado's San Juan Mountains in the late 19th century. Steve Lee brings Otto Mears to life in the third installment of the Winter Lecture Series.

The program is free and light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 945-5958. ■

R E S P O N S E

Sponsored by:

per BEACON Senior Newspa New Creation Hearing AARP Callahan-Edfast Mortuary Senior Services Group KJCT News 8

R nv enTi o n CenTe T wo R i v eRs Co | 9 a . m .- 3 p . m . | A p r il 19, 2 012

2.

Summer 2012

Health & Wellnes s

Five steps to healthier feet

page 2

Debilitated driv Shift to Independers can ence page 16

Produced by the BeacoN’s advertising Team

Senior

Summer Traveler

3.

A world of travel options for singles

page 2

Summer festivals Music, food and fun page 8

This baby koala is at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia. Photo by Erik Veland.

Produced by the BEACON’s Advertising Team

to Australia. recent trip h on her Albe rta Smit

Your Guide to Summer Travel, Recreation & Festivals

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

s.com

Mature travelers over the age of fifty, travel 60% more than the average American and spend 30% more money per trip than younger travelers. Of course, it would be hard for them to spend money with you if they don’t know about you. Let’s let them know.

Advertising Deadline: May 20, 2013 Publication Date: June 3, 2013

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Call for information 970

Now on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNew

2012

243-8829

44 classifieds

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

To Place a Classified Ad...

3 easy steps!  Write your ad: ....................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................

March 2013

Cosmetology In your home hair care By a licensed cosmetologist with 20 years of in-home service. From clipper cuts to perms and colors. Call Donna for appointments. 434-2948.

PASCO/SW, INC.

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. 216-8236.

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

Accessibility Services Grab bars. Walk in tubs/showers.

Licensed plumber/handyman.

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

Home Care 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.

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

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

www.pascosw.com

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

Home Service

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

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.

For how many months ..................... deadline :

20th of the preceding month

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

 cash

 check

 Send it in:

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

beacon, po box 3895, Grand Junction, Co 81502 fax: 1 800 536-7516 email: beacon@pendantpublishing.com

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

queStionS? Call Genevra M-TH, 1pm-4pm, 970 243-8829 www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Professional Tile Installer Insured and bonded. You purchase tile, I provide everything else. Special discounts. Call Bill for a free estimate.

245-3344.

Miscellaneous Services

House Sitting to Fit Your Needs.

Servicing Mesa County area. Call for more information. 200-0803.

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.

Pheasant Hunting BrokenSpokeRanch.com. wildpheasant@yahoo.com. 241-3949.

Can’t decide to repair or replace?

Call us and we will walk you through it! Our #1 goal is customer satisfaction

AffordAble AppliAnce repAir  Washers & Dryers  Refrigerators  Dishwashers  Stoves/Ovens  Garbage Disposals  Trash Compactors

COurteOus, Friendly, prOFessiOnal serviCe for most major brands

Discounts for Seniors and Disabled Veterans

Free service call with repair! insured in-HOme repair

visa/mC disCOver

970-434-8496

F r u i ta  G r a n d J u n C t i O n  C l i F t O n

We speCialize in HOnesty

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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

Call Linda 234-4736 or 1-800-572-7670.

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 BOOKS Nonfiction, history, nature, westerns, religion, antique, reference, etc. Also buying stamp collections. Call Frank at 241-7778. Will pick up.

Sales Person Wanted The Beacon Senior Newspaper is growing and we’re looking for a mature, loving sales person to grow with us. Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

Plumbing Plumber Needed?

Senior & military discounts, all plumbing repairs, boilers, heaters, evaporate coolers, preventative maintenance. Free estimates. Just plumb good service. Call Jeff at 260-4035.

Real Estate for Rent

senior living in a park like setting Friendly  Affordable  Safe Convenient  Comfortable

m onday

nellie Bechtel senior apartments 245-1712 • 3032 North 15th Street

Real Estate for Sale Hickory Crest 55+ Community in Columbia, MD 1 bedroom, den, 1.5 bath, wood floors. Close to Lorian/ Hospital. $320,000. Longnand-Foster Realtors. 410-730-9573/410-730-3456.

Ann Detraglia.

AIRLINE CAREERS Begin Here

Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech.

FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. Job placement assistance.

Call AIM

877-205-2315

March 2013 tu e sd a y

w e d n e sd a y

243-9844, ext. 1

th u rsd a y

fridaayy frid

1

Please call Fran at 243-9844 for nutrition questions or for nutrition counseling services.

Clam chowder Broccoli raisin & walnut salad Carrots Pineapple tidbits w/ cherries Crackers

4

5

6

7

11

12

13

14

15

18

19

20

21

22

25

26

27

28

29

Baked ham & raisin sauce Yams Peas & onions Apricots Wheat bread slice

Beef & barley soup California vegetales Pineapple fruit gelatin Crackers

Sloppy joe on bun 3-bean salad French onion bake Orange yogurt dessert

Help Wanted Car wash attendant needed.

Responsibilities include cleaning, maintenance, and customer service.

Some heavy lifting required. Two days per week. Apply in person at Crystal Clear Car Wash, 3204 E Road, Clifton.

Meal Menu

Classifieds 45

Chicken nuggets w/ ranch dressing Sweet potatoes Tossed salad Fruit salad Wheat bread slice

Turkey tetrazzini Chicken fajitas & Chateau vegetables salsa Jellied beet salad Pinto beans Citrus fruit mix Peaches Wheat bread slice

Chicken fried steak & pepper gravy Mashed potatoes 4-way vegetables Saucy fruit salad wheat bread slice Chicken pasta salad Garden vegetables Fruit medley Wheat bread slice

Egg & sausage bake Carrot raisin salad Asparagus Orange wedges Mini bran muffin

Corned beef & cabbage Parsley potatoes Emerald isle fruit gelatin Cornmeal roll Spaghetti & meatballs Spinach & tomato salad Pineapple tidbits Italian bread

Baked potato w/ broccoli, cheese & bacon bits Tossed salad Blushing pears Wheat bread slice

Beef ravioli w/ sauce Italian vegetables Tossed salad Fruit cocktail Wheat bread slice

Corn chowder Fish sticks 5-way vegetables Apricot & peach compote Crackers Chicken fricassee Black-eyed peas Hot marinated carrots Citrus surprise Wheat bread slice

Chicken salad on a bun Harvard beets Apricots

8

Chicken parmesan Brussel sprouts Chuckwagon vegetables Applesauce w/ raisins Wheat bread slice Egg rolls & sweet/ sour sauce Rice pilaf Stir fry vegetables Lime gelatin w/ pineapple Crab cake bake Cauliflower & cheese sauce Spinach mandarin salad Blushing pears Wheat bread slice Chef salad California vegetable blend Apricots Crackers

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.

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE FROM HOME *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice.

Job placement assistance. Computer available.

SCHEV authorized.

Call 800-496-0126 www.CenturaOnline.com

46 Kudos & kvetch

comments \ kom·ents Publisher’s note: Last month, we asked BEACON readers if the jokes in our Laughing Matters column were getting a bit too lewd and crude. Here are a few of the comments we received:  “February’s issue had two particular ‘jokes’ that turned my stomach: ‘How to start a fight’ and ‘Cigarettes and tampons.’ The first one regarding the husband’s problem is just simply insensitive. Husbands with this malady are already embarrassed about it without knowledge that some jerks think this is funny and laugh about it. The second one is just too private concerning a woman’s menstrual cycle.

To set the record straight, I grew up on a farm; married a rancher; and saw plenty of breeding, birth and death among animals. I treasured my husband’s and my married sexual life so I do NOT have a problem with sex. My son asked me, ‘Mom, what’s the difference between your cute naughty jokes and your repulsive dirty ones?’ I replied, ‘Anything having to do with private body parts, including the sexual act in any form, is repulsively dirty and not at all funny. The cute naughty ones are just on the edge.’ ‘The blind store clerk’ was just on the edge. PLEASE, clean it up!”

-Jo H., Grand Junction

 “I have to say that I have never laughed so hard in my life at the jokes in this February’s Laughing Matters section. I love your paper and look forward every month for my fix! I ignore the few crude jokes because the really funny ones are priceless.” - Dot G.  “Yes, your jokes are lewd and crude.

Why do you even need to ask your readers?” - Mary R.

Wanna give a shout out?

Pass out a compliment?

Write us at Beacon@PendantPublishing.com.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

How do I let my representative or senator know my feelings?

By Jeanette Hensley, Colorado Senior Lobby

A

s I sit here reading the newspaper and listening to the news, I become frustrated as to how my local senator or representative is voting in Colorado’s legislature. Why do they vote that way when I feel differently?

What can I do? I can contact Colorado Senior Lobby (CSL), an all-volunteer committee that works with the legislators on issues affecting seniors in Colorado.

CSL is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that speaks with a unified voice for all Coloradoans, particularly those who are 60 years of age and older. CSL focuses on issues and promotes beneficial legislation, while not supporting any specific political party or candidate. It is a place where your voice can be heard without fear of any political backlash or standing.

CSL encourages Colorado’s General Assembly, the U.S. Congress and state and federal government administrators to enact responsible legislation and establish effective regulations and administrative guidelines that positively affect the quality of life of all of Colorado’s older citizens.

CSL members work to influence change through advocacy and education of public officials on current issues. CSL monitors legislation and administrative rule development to track and inform the public of how legislators vote on bills related to senior issues and how legislation, once passed, is implemented. After the legislative session adjourns, the Senior Scorecard, a record of legislator votes on senior issues, is distributed to CSL members and all state legislators.

Each Monday during the legislative session, CSL conducts legislative

briefings (which are open to the public). These meetings are now available for individuals to call in and participate by phone. Members receive weekly updates on all the bills CSL is following and can vote to oppose, support or watch each bill.

CSL members often will testify at legislative committee hearings as well as boards and commissions regarding pending legislation and administrative issues, when appropriate.

CSL’s signature event is the annual Senior Day at the capitol. The lobby, in cooperation with other senior organizations, serves as the host for Senior Day, which is an opportunity for all citizens to see parts of the legislative process during the current session, as well as meet and visit with legislators.

In the last session, the governor provided some time from his busy schedule to talk with Senior Day attendees. This year, the event will start at 8:30 a.m. on Photo by Hustvedt.

March 20 in the Old Supreme Court at the capitol.

Typically, over 200 seniors attend this event.

If you are interested in joining CSL, the cost is $30 per year for an individual membership and $40 for a family membership, which allows up to two family members to be listed as members with voting rights. An organizational membership is $75, which allows up to three individuals from the organization to be listed as members with voting rights. Members receive the monthly newsletter with updates on bills, state regulations, or administrative actions and articles that may be of importance to older adults. To contact CSL, call 303-832-4535 or email OACSRLobby@ aol.com. ■

March 2013  “Yes, I agree Laughing Matters is ‘getting a bit too lewd.’ I am insulted when someone thinks I enjoy crude jokes just because I am old.” - Lois L.  “As an older person, I get tired of constantly being talked to like a child. I fought in war, drank my share of liquor and even had sex with more than one woman. Yes, my body and mind are slowing, but I’m not a school boy. I like your jokes just fine!” - Vernon T., Rifle  “My only complaint is that there are several jokes in Laughing Matters that would have been more appropriate in a men’s magazine.”

- Karen J., Grand Junction

 “Sometimes I am surprised about the jokes that you print, but I always find them entertaining.” - Bill B., Fruita  “I think your jokes are getting a little too crude. I’m sure that there are a lot of cute jokes out there that you could print.” - Anne And on and on the comments went, mostly in favor of us cleaning up our act. And so we will. Each month we’ll try to find that perfect joke, that’s just on the edge, and limit it to one per issue. Please keep in mind that most of the jokes we print are reader-submitted and most of those submitted we couldn’t print except in an actual men’s magazine. So, help us out, dear readers, by submitting your mostly clean and always fun jokes to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com OR BEACON Senior Newspaper P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 And, thank you for reading the BEACON.

Wanna pitch a fit? Write us at Beacon@PendantPublishing.com.

Serving families in the Grand Valley for over 100 years.

The Legacy of Love

According to Webster’s unabridged dictionary - a legacy is a gift or anything handed down from the past - from one generation to another. A legacy may also be called a Tradition. In the funeral business we find we are given the gift from many families to conduct the funerals from generation to generation. The families have entrusted their most precious possession to us - their loved one - for their final rites. This is an honor that we at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary hold very high. We strive to make each and every service meaningful for the family - many times our services are referred to as a “Celebration of Life.” Yes, a celebration of a life that was well lived, of love shared, and family traditions remembered.

We find that more often than not, people want to have a say in their funeral and to give their children and grandchildren a funeral that they have planned with a lot of thought and care – we call this the ultimate giving of one’s self - a Legacy of Love.

Many couples meet with one or both of our full-time PreNeed Counselors to work out all the details of their funeral. These details involve the type of service they want, choosing the casket or urn, as well as which songs and scriptures are to be included in their service. The celebration becomes “about” the loved one when personal items of hobbies, DVD presentations of pictures, and poems can be shared when there is adequate time to plan.

Another benefit of pre-arranging is that one’s funeral can also be pre-paid. Today, a traditional funeral costs $6,000.00 to $8,000.00 – in 40 years with a 5% inflation rate costs are estimated to be $26,160 and $56,320.00. Cremation with Memorial Services range from approximately $1,900.00 to $3,500.00 – those prices are estimated to be $10,600.00 and $17,600.00 within the same parameters. By pre-paying one can lock in today’s prices – you end up paying today’s price for tomorrow’s service.

So many people come to us - not knowing what their parent or spouse wants in their funeral – because they would never talk about it or share their feelings with their family. When parents take the initiative to preplan – they are showing their children and grandchildren they cared for them more than they ever dreamed– they cared enough to take the time and money to take care of all the details – so their heirs would not wonder and guess what it is Dad or Mom would have wanted us to do.

Other items of assistance our counselors can help with are to coordinate arrangements and shipping to a funeral home in another state. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary is a locally owned small business. They have been chosen to be a member of the SELECTED Independent Funeral Homes organization. Very few funeral homes meet the rigorous criteria to be chosen into this organization. One of the benefits of belonging to this organization is that we have reputable firms around the world that we can work with, should we need to utilize their services. Callahan-Edfast is also a member of the National Funeral Directors Association and the Colorado Funeral Directors Association. The firm was recently chosen as the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce Small Business of The Year.

It is the goal of each and every employee to uphold the Mission Statement at Callahan – Edfast Mortuary which is: To Assist everyone who walks through the door to the best of our ability as humans, one to another.

To Help relieve the burden on each family as much as possible and support them through their time of loss.

To Care for one another as people, so that each encounter with us is a significant first step toward healing.

We promise this to you, and thank you for the trust and confidence you place in us during times of need.

For more information about how to leave your family a Legacy of Love – contact Sandra Johnson, CPC or Abel Chavez – Pre Need Counselors at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary. Appointments can be set up by calling 243-2450, or stop by to see us at 2515 Patterson Road in Grand Junction.

2515 Patterson Road • Grand Junction, CO 81505

970.243.2450

info@cemgj.com www.callahan-edfast.com

What is a stroke?

Vonnie Folkers Daughter, mother, grandmother, realtor Grand Junction

Vonnie had an odd sensation in her face. “The left side of my face and my eye felt strange.” It was a classic stroke symptom, facial droop. Over the phone Vonnie’s son heard something in her speech.

“He told me I needed to get to St. Mary’s fast.”

“It was scary. Thank goodness for St. Mary’s.” To reduce her risk of another stroke, Vonnie is working on her diet, blood pressure, and cholesterol. “And, boy, I hate exercising, but I’m doing it!”

A

stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel or when a blood vessel breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. A stroke kills brain cells which can affect walking, speaking, seeing, or feeling.

There are two types of strokes: 1. Ischemic strokes occur when a clot clogs a blood vessel, cutting off the blood flow to brain cells. Fatty deposits called plaque can build up, blocking or narrowing blood vessels. About 80 percent of strokes are ischemic strokes.

2. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a A. B. C. D. weakened blood vessel Ischemic Stroke ruptures and bleeds A. Healthy blood vessel B. Plaque buildup reduces blood flow. into the brain. While C. Plaque ruptures, blood will clot and decrease blood flow. hemorrhagic strokes D. Blood clot can block blood vessel, are less common, they brain tissues supplied by the blood vessel will die. are more deadly.

You can reduce your risk of stroke. · Know and control your blood pressure. · Identify and treat abnormal heartbeat. · Stop smoking. · Control alcohol use. · Know and control cholesterol levels. · Control diabetes. · Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.

SPOT A STROKE, ACT Visit our website at www.stmarygj.org for information about our services, campus maps, and driving directions.

“We’re here for life.”

970-298-CARE (2273) 2635 N. 7th Street • P. O. Box 1628 Grand Junction, CO 81502-1628 An Affiliate of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System

FACE

Face drooping?

ARMS

Arm weakness?

SPEECH

TIME

Speech difficulty? Time to call 911!

Spot any one of these symptoms and call 911 immediately. Time lost is brain lost.

ST. MARY’S IS A CERTIFIED PRIMARY STROKE CENTER Meeting American Heart Association and American Stroke Association standards.

Upcoming Events Stroke Support Group Stroke recovery education, relaxation, therapies, and discussions for those recovering from stroke and their loves ones. » Third Friday of each month, 1:00-2:30 pm, Grand Mesa Room in the Life Center » Call 970-298-1929 for more information. » Free!

NEXT MEETING Friday, March 15, 1:00–2:30 pm · Hobby demonstrations: bring your hobby/ crafts and be ready to learn and share! Also learn about vegetarian eating.

Weight Loss Surgery Seminar Learn how weight loss surgery works and who qualifies at a free seminar presented by the staff of St. Mary’s Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center. Call 970-298-6403 to register.

GRAND JUNCTION Wednesday, March 6, 5:30–7:00 pm Wednesday, March 20, Noon–1:30 pm RIFLE Thursday, March 21, 5:30–7:00 pm “I had a heart attack at 47, knee problems, and high blood pressure. After bariatric surgery I not only lost weight but my knee pain is gone and so is the high blood pressure.”

—Stevie Joe Hale, Battlement Mesa Gastric bypass surgery patient