BEACON - Create a Legacy (March 2013)

reate a egacy C L Local guide to giving your

time and money

Tillie Bishop’s legacy A servant leader and friend

page 8

Vote for this year’s Volunteer of the Year

Tillie Bishop poses for a photo on his living room sofa with 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

2 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

The things we value most: an introduction to planned giving

By Penny Cowden

M

y dad spent a lot of time trying to teach me that “things” had no value. I remember as a teenager always wanting something. One day, he asked me, “Do you really think all these ‘things’ will make you happy?”

This was after I insisted at great length that I had to have a leather coat I’d seen. In fact, I seem to recall pleading that I would “just die” if I didn’t get it. I blithely answered, “Yes. I will be happy if I could just have that coat.”

Though likely disappointed at my response, my dad nevertheless struck a deal: spend some time each week for a month volunteering at something and he would buy me the coat.

I was devastated, of course. After all, my friends didn’t have to do anything to get stuff, why should I? But, since I really would die if I didn’t get that coat, I grudgingly agreed.

My sister worked at the local hospital so I signed up to volunteer. I

helped people find where they were going and pushed a cart around handing out magazines and books and took flowers to patients. Despite my best efforts to hate the whole experience, the human drama called “life” started to penetrate. The experiences of the people I saw were extraordinary and I was drawn to their stories.

I volunteered for longer than a month. The experience faded and took up residence in a corner of my mind soon overloaded with school, my social life and worrying about whether or not I would be able to get into the same college as my best friend.

Years later, I walked into another hospital to begin my first job as a fundraiser. It was scary. I really didn’t have a clue what the job was all about but I figured it was just like

We insure our cars, our houses, our toys and our very lives. Why wouldn’t we also spend some time figuring out how to insure our values?

The United States faces significant challenges in preparing students for jobs in

the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In order to meet these 21st century challenges, our students need 21st century skills: critical thinking, information literacy, collaboration, self-direction and invention! The Center has a vision for preparing future generations to be competitive at the local and regional level as well as in the global arena by offering creative hands-on experiences, developing and providing resources for classroom use, providing training for educators, and developing innovative programs.

Please help us to touch the future by volunteering or through donations. Think of supporting the John McConnell Math and Science Center, a non-profit, 501 (c) (3). Thank you!! bharmon@mathandsciencecenter.org

www.MathAndScienceCenter.org

marketing and I’d been doing that for a while. It didn’t take long to figure out how wrong I was. I realized that it wasn’t even about money, but about people. So I began to really listen, and I read books and talked with anyone who could provide some insight into the world of philanthropy.

During one such conversation, a donor told me, “I give because it makes a difference. I’ve been very fortunate and I want to give back something really important.”

There it was in a nutshell—philanthropy in its pure and unvarnished form—a conscious well thought out plan to give because making a difference is important.

That’s really all planned giving is about. It gets a bad reputation because people talk about it in terms of their will or their estate plan—neither of which is much fun to think about as it involves planning for our permanent departure. Also, planned giving can be a bit intimidating because it’s wrapped up in all that talk about capital gains, IRS regulations, and the legalities of trusts and annuities. Those areas of planning shouldn’t be ignored, but they are not the heart of charitable planning.

We insure our cars, our houses, our toys and our very lives. Why wouldn’t we also spend some time figuring out how to insure our values? Planning your philanthropy is about passing on your values. What’s important to you? Church? Healthcare? Education?

Social Services? Most of us spend an important part of our lives giving to those things—not just donations but gifts of time and talent. These gifts have helped define our very essence.

So why not consider the ultimate gift: an enduring reflection of our passion and beliefs?

Perhaps the greatest benefit to deciding to make a transformative gift is that you can’t help but change your life and at the same time, you’re helping change the lives of others.

Think about Mr. Rockefeller. He wanted books to be accessible to everyone. He valued education and through planning, he was able to give eternal life to that value.

Through gift planning, he gave the gift of books to generations of readers. But this type of “value insurance” isn’t just for the wealthy.

Planned giving is about a wonderful, anonymous donor who set up an endowment to make sure that cardiac rehabilitation care is available to everyone in need—far into the future. There’s also the donor whose bequest provides spiritual healing for patients in need. There are thousands of examples throughout our beautiful Grand Valley of those who passed on their beliefs through planned gifts that will make a difference in the lives that follow them.

Of course, there are many tangible benefits to planning your present and future gifts: tax deductions, guaranteed income for you or family members, gift plans that fit your very specific estate and tax situations… the list is long. An amazing benefit is the ability to choose your “social capital” benefits rather than letting Uncle Sam choose through taxes.

That’s the beauty of gift planning.

It’s accomplished through some very powerful tools that provide an exhilarating opportunity to direct your assets exactly as you please while controlling that portion of your income and assets that can be retained—or lost.

More importantly, every one of us will leave behind a set of intangibles that will give clear definition to our lives and our legacy. These intangibles are comprised of the values we honor in our lives and the ways we demonstrate that honor. This legacy is a testimony to our lives and the ideals that will, hopefully, transcend any material inheritance we pass on.

If we could, how many of us would literally will a set of morals, ethics and principles to our children and grandchildren? Well, through charitable planning we can. Now, that’s a gift that truly keeps on giving. ■

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Create a legacy 3

Protect your family’s legacy through long-term care planning

By Baird Brown, The Law Office of Brown & Brown, PC

T

he lawyers here at The Law Office of Brown & Brown, PC have helped clients create and preserve a legacy for their heirs for a combined total of more than 47 years. We have learned a lot from our clients.

• Our clients want to maintain their independence.

• Our clients want to live in their residence for the balance of their lifetime.

• Our clients want to leave an inheritance (a legacy) to their children.

What is most likely to get in the way of leaving a legacy to their heirs?

Unless they have an estate, which is subject to estate tax, the cost most likely to derail their leaving a legacy is the cost of in-home, assisted or long-term care. The average cost of long-term care in a skilled nursing facility in Colorado is $7,023 per month or $85,000 per year.

A rule of thumb we have used over the years is as follows: one-third of men over the age of 65 will spend about nine months in a skilled nursing facility for a potential cost of approximately $63,000 in 2013. For women over the age of 65, two-thirds of women will require care and the stay can approach 30 months for a cost of approximately $210,000. These costs can certainly impact the ability of leaving a legacy to one’s heirs.

When counseling clients on how to avoid these costs, it is important to consider five different options: private pay, long-term care insurance, veteran’s benefits, Medicare and Medicaid benefits.

Private Pay. This is a good option for those who can afford it.

Long-term care insurance. This works well for those who are healthy and can afford the premiums. Over the years, policies have been developed to provide benefits for home-

Medicaid. This federal and state program offers the potential benefits to preserve a legacy for your heirs. The program is complicated and requires planning well in advance of the time the benefit is needed. There are penalties for making gifts to reduce assets in the applicant’s estate. Certain assets can be protected and the rules are different depending upon whether you are a single or married applicant.

health, assisted living and long-term care. The amount of the premium to be paid depends upon the type of policy and the benefits you might want. If you want inflation protection, an unlimited benefit, a short elimination period (the duration of the stay in a facility before benefits begin) or even a death benefit, the policy will cost more.

Veteran’s benefits. For certain veterans with a service-connected disability, benefit options may exist. Based on our experience, few veterans qualify for long-term care benefits.

As part of every estate and/or legacy plan, the cost of care toward the end of life needs to be evaluated and a strategy developed on how to pay the possible cost of care. Preserving a legacy is important for the overwhelming majority of our clients.

To contact The Law Office of Brown & Brown, PC, call our Grand Junction office at 243-8250 or our Glenwood Springs office at 945-1241, or visit www.brownandbrownpc. com ■

Medicare. This is a viable option for short stays (per spell of illness) in a care facility, provided the individual is rehabilitating after a qualifying stay in a hospital. Full benefits are limited to the first 20 days. The next 80 days require a co-pay. Medicare is not a good option for those in a situation requiring custodial care for any length of time.

Estate Planning Workshops to Help Protect Your Legacy Long-Term Care Planning — March 13 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Learn about long-term care insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and more. Free workshop.

Baby Boomer Law School — April 24 from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Learn about estate planning issues facing Boomers as they age. Cost is $20 ($30 couple) to cover materials.

Planning for Blended Families — May 8 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Learn how to structure an estate plan for married couples with blended families. Free workshop.

Accumulating wealth is one thing.

Preserving it is another.

Let our family help yours.

Registration is required and seating is limited. Get your questions answered in this smallgroup environment. Call our office now to reserve your seat or sign up on our website at:

www.brownandbrownpc.com Phone: (970) 243-8250 1250 E Sherwood Dr. Grand Junction, CO 81501

Baird B. Brown

♦

201 Centennial Dr., #130 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

Clara Brown Shaffer

♦

Jamie J. Roth

♦

Paul M. Smith

4 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

KAFM serves as a voice for the community

K

AFM 88.1 is proud to serve as the only locally owned, all-volunteer community radio station. Community radio fills a vital role by providing a place for volunteers to share music, culture and information to foster a healthy, vibrant community.

KAFM is also a place where local nonprofits can promote their mission and publicize their events at no charge. Tune in to hear poets and painters, trail talk and book lovers, conservation and energy discussions, and more. The Kitchen Sink Call-in Show helps listeners buy, sell, trade and promote their community event.

KAFM has thrived locally for over 13 years because of community support. Community radio only works when everyone participates, so member support and volunteers are critical to keep the airwaves available for the community.

Please consider participating in one of these ways to keep KAFM a

strong voice for the community: • Volunteer. Become a DJ or on-air programmer. Volunteer in our music library or at special events.

• Become a member. Be part of the family that sustains us financially.

• Consider a tax-deductible donation.

Donating cash, a vehicle or other property is a mutually beneficial way to reduce your taxes and help community radio.

• Become an underwriter. Promote your business to thousands of listeners who appreciate businesses that support their community.

• Planned giving. Your gift to KAFM is a great way to help build a steady foundation that will last and may also provide savings on estate taxes and help you leave more to your heirs.

To learn more about KAFM 88.1, and the power of community radio, visit www.kafmradio.org or call 241-8801. ■

Your dollars and volunteer hours make a difference

T

he daily operation of Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County is like a well-oiled machine. At the receiving area of our ReStore at 2936 North Ave., close to 50 volunteers work each day unloading, cleaning, repairing, pricing and selling items to help build homes right here in Mesa County.

Did you know that 100 percent of our operating costs are funded by the revenue that our ReStore brings in?

The in-kind items that you donate go toward ending poverty housing. With almost 60 homes and counting, you are helping us make a difference!

Did you know that we staff less than 20 employees and open our doors to over 100 volunteers between our ReStore, construction site and affiliate office? The dedication of the individuals who work for Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County is

second only to the volunteers who devote endless hours towards a mission they believe in. With thousands of hours spent volunteering, you are helping us make a difference!

While the ReStore funds the operations to orchestrate the building of homes in Mesa County, did you know that your monetary donations go directly toward the homes we build?

Every penny collected purchases the nails, wood, paint, windows, lights and doorknobs in our homes. Our homeowners know that if it wasn’t for your generosity, they might not have a place to call their own. With every dollar donated, you are helping us make a difference.

Thank you for making a difference! For more information on how to help, call 255-9850 or visit www. hfhmesa.org. ■

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Mesa County Libraries Adult Literacy Program seeks volunteer tutors

T

he Adult Literacy Program at Mesa County Libraries is seeking volunteer tutors to help people learn English, improve their English skills, and prepare for U.S. citizenship.

Literary Services Head Karen Kllanxhja said more than 100 people are on the waiting list for English instruction.

“They want to learn,” Kllanxhja said. “They are motivated to learn and they need tutors to help them.”

Each year, Mesa County Libraries provide language tutoring services to hundreds of people from more than 30 countries. Volunteer tutors are crucial to those services, helping students practice and learn language skills. Demand for the services is outpacing the number of tutors, and more volunteer assistance is needed to ensure that help is available for all students.

The Adult Literacy Program is seek-

ing people with the time and passion to help others and who can make a commitment to tutoring. Mesa County Libraries provide tutor training and a series of printed and online materials for tutors and their students to use. The library also assesses the skills of all students to ensure that tutors are matched to students with an appropriate level of skill. Englishspeaking tutors don’t need to know another language in order to be a tutor, they need only the ability to guide motivated adults who want to learn English.

Find out more about tutoring for the Adult Literacy Program by attending a volunteer tutor information session at the Mesa County Central Library Branch, 655 N. First St., on Thursday, March 7. Choose from two one-hour sessions: 1 p.m.-2 p.m. and 6 p.m.-7 p.m. For more information, call Karen at 683-2431. ■

Community Food Bank feeds families

C

ommunity Food Bank is not a government-funded food warehouse or distribution program. All food donations are shelved and immediately distributed directly to any Mesa County resident in need, at no cost to the client. Local clients, 40 percent of whom are 18 and younger, can receive a three-day emergency supply of shelf-stable, nutritious food nine times a year.

In a typical year, CFB reports 16,000 to 20,000 client visits for a variety of reasons: families experiencing a recent job loss; temporary health problems and the associated medical expenses; low-income, single-parent families; the under employed and/or working poor; families struggling with unexpected household expenses; and families recovering from a disaster.

Our community is still feeling the effects of the recession. Along with the increased need of assistance, food costs continue to rise and grants are decreasing. Thus there is a growing need for assistance through monetary

and tangible donations.

Over 77 percent of 2012’s $136,000 budget was used to purchase food.

Monetary donations to CFB are used to purchase food from our community partners at discounted rates. Food donations are accepted from local churches, individuals, businesses, organizations and food drives and in turn, placed in our emergency food boxes. All donations are tax deductible.

In addition to donating money and/ or food how else can I help?

CFB could not successfully assist clients without its dedicated volunteers! (There is only one paid staff member.) All other positions are filled by volunteers, including board members. Examples of ongoing volunteer positions are: interviewer, sacker/stocker, social media marketing, community outreach and board member.

Contact CFB at 640-0336 or visit them at 200 S. Spruce St. in Grand Junction. ■

Create a legacy 5

Do you like books?

Spend time in the library as a volunteer.

We’re seeking kindred spirits to serve as: • Bookstore Clerks • literacy Tutors

• Book Shelvers • And more…

Flexible hours to meet your needs. For info call (970) 683-2432 or email volunteer@mcpld.org.

Apply online at www.mesacountylibraries.org.

photo by Marilyn Robinson

March 2013

visit www.mesacountylibraries.org

Help feed your hungry neighbor!

Local Food

You can help

is purchased and distributed to local residents by local volunteers on an emergency 3-day supply basis.

This is not a governmentfunded food warehouse/ distribution program — It is local, local, local.

by joining our team of 40+ volunteers, or by making a contribution of food or funds. $30 buys a family of 4 a 3-day supply of food.

Mail: PO Box 3614, Grand Junction, CO 81502

16,000 – 20,000 served a year

facebook.com/ CFBGJ

200 S. Spruce Street, Grand Junction, CO 81501 ❖ 970- 640-0336

Open M, T, Th, F, 11:00am - 2:00pm, Closed Wednesdays Email: communityfoodbankgj@gmail.com

6 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Your love of animals today can save homeless pets tomorrow

By Elaine Johnson-Craig

T

here’s nothing quite like the human-animal bond. Our pets love us as we are, unconditionally.

They’re playmates, soul mates—and sometimes bed mates! They make us laugh and they lick away our tears.

We can’t imagine life without them, and they probably can’t imagine life without us. Our pets need us to take care of them. When we can’t do that anymore, our cat or dog becomes homeless. That’s when caring and committed caregivers, like the staff and volunteers at Roice-Hurst Humane Society, step in as the safety net for that animal companion until they can be re-homed.

When you’re doing your estate planning, think of your own pets and what might happen to them after your passing. What if family or friends are unable or unwilling to care for them? The only option might

be your local shelter, and you would want that shelter to be a thriving facility able to provide for your pet until a new family is found, no matter how long that takes.

For the past 50 years, Roice-Hurst— a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit— has saved and re-homed thousands of cats and dogs. Without the support of donors past, present and future, their life-saving mission could not continue. By remembering Roice-Hurst in your will or other estate planning, you can change the lives of homeless pets in your own backyard. Whether you can help just one animal, or can consider a memorial endowment, you’ll be leaving a life-saving legacy and paving the way for the next generation of kindness to animals.

For more information, call RoiceHurst at 434-7337 or stop by the shelter at 362 28 Road in Grand Junction.

Also, visit www.rhhumanesociety. com. ■

Center for Mental Health supports life satisfaction for the aging

I

n any group setting, take a moment to count the people around you.

One of every four will have a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. This number equates to 57.7 million people across the country who will suffer from a mental health disorder this year. One in 17 will suffer from a serious mental illness.

How do mental health concerns affect the aging population? We now know that between 19 and 30 percent of people age 65 and older experience signs of depression.

Depression is not a normal part of growing older. Rather, in 80 percent of the cases, it is a treatable condition. Unfortunately, for seniors, it is a widely under-recognized and often untreated or under-treated disease.

Depression is often associated with other chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. The presence of depression can complicate the treatment of these diseases.

One key aspect of depression is whether the senior is receiving adequate social support such as the ability to share problems or vent emotions, adequate advice and guidance, and physical support such as transportation and assistance with housekeeping or meals. Men, more often than women, report that they do not receive the support they need to lead happy and satisfying lives.

The Center for Mental Health is a nonprofit organization that provides services that target the indigent.

Support from individuals, businesses, agencies and organizations allow us to care for everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Without your help, many of our programs and services would end.

Life satisfaction is important as we age. All donations are tax deductible.

To find out more, call Janey Sorensen at 252-3225 or donate online at www. centermh.org/your-support. ■

March 2013

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Create a legacy 7

Latimer House provides hope and support for those affected by domestic violence

T

he statistics are chilling. One in four women has experienced domestic violence in her lifetime. More than three women are murdered by their intimate partners in this country every day. Between 3.3 and 10 million children witness some form of domestic violence annually. There were more than 900 reported cases of domestic violence in Mesa County last year. Domestic violence is a very real crisis, shrouded in shame and secrecy that makes seeking help even more difficult.

Hilltop’s Latimer House leads the way in providing hope to the women, children and men affected by domestic violence and sexual assault in our community. Latimer House provides a broad-range of services and support aimed at long-term solutions for those looking to move from crisis to confidence in their lives. These comprehensive services target the many forms of domestic violence, including physical, sexual, emotional, econom-

ic and psychological abuse.

Latimer House operates the only domestic violence emergency shelter in Mesa County. Housed in a large, Victorian building, it provides a warm and home-like sanctuary for those at greatest risk. Those most in danger arrive at Latimer House with nothing but their children and maybe their purses, needing the most basic of necessities. Generous community support assures what they need is available. The women and children are safe and find the support they need to begin planning a life free from violence.

Latimer House’s trained counselors and staff provide advocacy and support, both for those in the com-

munity as well as those who utilize the emergency shelter. The complexities of domestic violence require a multitiered approach.

The counselors work with the clients to form short and long-term plans. They help navigate the complex legal and safety issues many clients face. Counseling and support groups cover the many aspects of domestic violence including causes, effects and real world solutions. Transitional housing and employment assistance increase the chances for long-term success.

Over 50 percent of children in homes affected by domestic violence will be abused themselves. All will face emotional trauma that leaves them vulnerable and at risk for con-

tinued violence. Latimer House offers comprehensive children’s services, including counseling and support groups that aim to break the cycle of violence.

The services provided by Latimer House are vital to our community.

Domestic violence does not discriminate by age, gender or economic circumstances. Chances are you know someone who has been affected by this violence. When you support Latimer House, you not only assure these services remain available, you also let those affected know they are not alone.

To learn more about Latimer House and how you can help, call 241-0324.

If you or a loved one is suffering domestic violence, call the 24-hour crisis line at 241-6704.

Latimer House is one of 24 programs operated by Hilltop in western Colorado. We are leading through action to make a difference for people of all ages. ■

I am not a victim...

I am a survivor.

Latimer House provides comprehensive and compassionate services to those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.

• Safe-house and 24-hour crisis line serving all of Mesa County • Individual and group counseling • Advocacy, legal support and access to community services • Children’s services, counseling and support groups • Long-term support including transitional housing and employment assistance To learn more or to make a donation to Latimer House call (970) 241-0324 24-Hour Crisis Line (970) 241-6704 LATIMER HOUSE IS A HILLTOP PROGRAM - MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES IN WESTERN COLORADO FOR OVER 60 YEARS

8 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

 Tillie Bishop’s legacy of service 

 Bishop and his wife, Pat, whom he calls the “speaker of his house,” in the Senate chamber.

By Carla Johnson

T

ilman Malcom Bishop, 80, has certainly earned the titles of educator, administrator, legislator, regent, county commissioner, coach, and even television reporter. But, sitting on his living room sofa and stroking his beloved bichon frise, Buddy, Bishop insisted, “Titles are nice. Most people call me Senator Bishop, but my name is Tillie.”

As the last of 12 children, he conceded, “the common names were already used up.”

Bishop’s resume of private and public service includes seven years as a

public school teacher, 31 years as an administrator at Colorado Mesa University, four years as a state representative, 24 years as a state senator, one term as Mesa County Commissioner, and one term on the Board of Regents of the University of Colorado.

Bishop was born into a family of dry farmers east of Colorado Springs.

He married his high school sweetheart, Pat, and they headed to the University of Northern Colorado, both intent on pursuing careers in education.

While teaching, coaching wrestling, and building a K-12 testing

and counseling program in LaSalle, Colorado, Bishop and his wife took a swing through the Western Slope to visit her parents. Bishop contacted Dr. Lowell Heiny to inquire about a position at then Mesa Junior College as a guidance counselor.

Bishop received the green light in August 1967 to create an orientation program for incoming college freshmen. Pat went to teach at Central High School where she stayed for 27 years.

Having barely settled in Grand Junction, Bishop began talking with some friends about an open seat in the state House of Representatives.

“We looked at the guy who was running and agreed that we could beat him,” he said.

The only question was whether or not Mesa College would allow a public employee to run for office.

“It turns out I could, but it was kind of a gray area,” he said. “Sam Suplizio, who was on the board, and baseball coach Bus Bergman were both supportive. When I went to the county assembly, I signed a pledge that if I didn’t get 30 percent of the delegate votes, I would go home. I got 29 percent and kept my word. I supported my opponent and he lost the race.”

Two years later, in 1970, the Mesa County Republican Party asked him to run again. This time he beat the incumbent by over 2,000 votes. Bishop credited democrat Terry Farina for helping him win his race.

“Every time he would tell me I would never beat my opponent, Pat and I would knock on 30 to 50 more doors,” he said.

Bishop learned valuable campaign etiquette during his first political race. In his quest to contact as many voters as possible, he would cut across neighborhood lawns to save time. He changed his ways when one homeowner pointed out that this was a definite no-no.

At a home in Palisade, Bishop accidentally left a fence gate open to get to the front door and a poodle escaped from the yard. He spent a con-

siderable amount of time with the owner chasing after the dog. After the pooch was safely returned, the owner asked him what he was running for. When Bishop answered, the voter replied, “Why don’t you run for dog catcher?”

Juggling his work at the college and the general assembly meant long hours for the freshman legislator.

“I worked at the office at the college until 1 or 2 a.m.,” he said.

“Weekends were always busy because I met with constituents.”

The long hours paid off when Bishop was named one of the Outstanding Freshman Legislators for his ability to grasp the process, his finesse with approaching people, and his effective presentation skills.

Bishop’s initial agenda was simply to represent the people of the Western Slope and their issues. He was especially interested in ensuring that smaller school districts received equal funding. As he gained footing at the state capitol, he introduced measures addressing Colorado’s natural resources, wildlife, and parks and recreation.

Bishop said his guiding principle was the welfare of his constituents.

“I would always ask, ‘Is this good public policy?’” He said it was not his style to play hardball in politics.

Bishop, right, joined the “I went [to DenCo National Guard in 1951. ver] to get things done, not to be an immoveable impediment.”

Back in the day, Bishop said, “there was more respect within the (republican) party and between the two parties. If you accept what you can get, you will eventually get what you want.”

Bishop said he worked both sides of the aisle, as he had as many friends

Bishop volunteering with the Salvation Army.

that were democrats as he did that were republicans.

“Eighty-five percent of all legislatures have nothing to do with partisan politics: over-regulation, health care, transportation, and amending legislation,” Bishop lamented. “Democrats and republicans made it partisan.

Republicans would kill democrat bills and then introduce the same legislation themselves. There used to be a better atmosphere around the capitol. We have evolved into a country of hate.

People are angry at Washington, D.C. and they take it out on the state. It’s a real shame. The people who are setting the worst example olorado are Congress and the president, blocking appointments, using the filibuster. There are no points of compromise. The president is abusing his powers of executive order and he will make the final decision on the pipeline for natural gas.”

Bishop said he admires Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson. But the U.S. president he respects most from the recent past is Gerald Ford.

“He was a part of western Colo-

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

rado, particularly the mountain west Bishop credits his wife of over 60 and ski country,” he said. “He walked years for much of his success. He was quick to say, “Pat is the speaker of my the streets and visited with people. house, and the chairman of finance He was one of us.” and rules. Pat’s been a real pillar of Bishop laughed as he recalled the strength. When I would get bogged first time Ford came to speak at down in issues, it was good to be Stocker Stadium. able to ‘cathart’ with my wife.”

“The Secret Service went nuts,” he Bishop’s fingerprints are all over the said. “There was a rifle in everyone’s Grand Valley, from the Colorado Riverpick-up.” front project to the Tilman M. Bishop Term limits, retirement and even Unified Technical Campus (Western a close call with bone cancer have Colorado Community College). not sidelined this tireless lobbyist.

“My fountain of youth is being Bishop’s current project is advocating around the young people at CMU,” for Congress to turn the Colorado National Monument into a national park. he confided.

Bishop summed up a lifetime of “I support changing the name,” he lessons learned. said. “People who object say it will “We’re not indispensable; we’re only affect air quality and water quality. temporary stewards. What we do can Those things could change just as be long lasting for the bad or for the much if it stayed a national monument. Some people say we don’t need good. Others have been there before it, but I ask, ‘What companies can we and others will come behind you.”

Bishop advises others to leave a attract?’ China and Russia have monlegacy in the community. uments that would blow your mind.

“Provide leadership,” he said.

We (the U.S.) are known by our “Guide your state and your country. national parks. It would be a boom to the economy. People visit restaurants, Recognize the issue for what it is and make it better. Do you want to be shops, and take home souvenirs.” so ultra-conservative that you block But why this issue and why now? progress?”

“Because you don’t always have a Bishop also advises to follow the U.S. senator (democrat Mark Udall) 11th commandment: “Do not take and a U.S. representative (republican thyself too seriously.”

Scott Tipton) willing to carry the And as for the press, Bishop adlegislation,” Bishop stressed. “There vised, “I learned early, you don’t get is real interest right now and respect into a pissing contest with a skunk. for the individuals reaching out for it.”

You can argue, but they buy ink by Bishop’s governing record is prethe barrel and they will have the served in the Colorado legislative last word.” archives, but he takes particular Just this once, Tillie gets the last pride in having perfected the art of word. ■ politics.

“People talk about introducing legislation,” he said. “I carried the legislation in my House and Senate, and lobbied in the other houses to get it through.”

Bishop celebrated his 80th birthday on January 1 and was overwhelmed by friends and well wishers calling and bringing birthday gifts throughout the day.

“People have been so nice to Pat and me,” Bishop said.

“We couldn’t ask for any betTip a canoe and Tillie too. ter place to have a home.”

Create a legacy 9

What others say about Tillie Bishop’s legacy: • “I’ve lived in western Colorado all of my adult life and have known Tillie personally for 15-20 years. He is beyond belief as a community citizen and he has been wonderfully supportive of me. He has that spirit of giving back to the community.”

- Marcia Neal, Vice Chairman, Colorado Board of Education, 3rd Congressional District • “Tillie Bishop is someone I’ve had the pleasure of learning from at different points in my life. As a legislator, a member of the governor’s cabinet, and now as a college president, I’ve always treasured Tillie’s counsel and his ability to bring people together.” - Tim Foster, President, Colorado Mesa University • “I’ve known Tillie since 1985 and as far as I’m concerned, he is Mr. Grand Junction. He’s been a real stalwart in his years of public service, and a common sense conservative. He’s a great leader; highly regarded and highly respected.”

- Bruce Benson, President, University of Colorado • “I learned a lot from Tillie Bishop during our time together in the Colorado Legislature and I have always valued his counsel.

Tillie accomplished a lot during his many years of public service, but I believe his greatest legacy was the way he worked in a bipartisan fashion at the Colorado capitol, as Mesa County Commissioner and as a regent for the University of Colorado. I am proud to champion his common-sense approach in Washington.”

- Mark Udall, U.S. Senator • “Tillie’s legacy is the fact that he is not a politician that thinks about the next election, rather he is a statesman that thinks about the next generation.”

- Steve King, Colorado State Senate, District 7

10 volunteer of the year

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Vote for Volunteer of the Year

By Cloie Sandlin

Shirley Dallo

n April 18, the BEACON will announce the winner of Volunteer of the Year at BeaconFest. With so many wonderful volunteers to choose from, we at the BEACON need your help. We are leaving it up to you, dear readers, to vote for the 2013 BeaconFest Volunteer of the Year.

O

Nominated by Jean Lehmann, Senior Recreation Center Shirley accepted a temporary board position at the last minute and was later elected to vice president. She has stepped up many times to aid in the kitchen and food storage without question or complaint. She’s an angel.

Last year, we received thousands of votes for the Volunteer of the Year. It goes to show that our readers really are passionate about local volunteers. But some were so passionate that we discovered a little bit of foul play. To avoid that this year, we are doing the voting a little differently.

Julia Knott

Step 1: The easiest way to vote for Volunteer of the Year is on our website.

Go to: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com.

Step 2: Click on the box that reads: “Choose this year’s Volunteer of the Year.”

Step 3: Choose your favorite volunteer from the drop down menu, enter your email address and submit. The online voting will close at midnight on April 13.

You can also mail in the published ballot on page 13 of this insert. (We will only accept ballots that are mailed to us.)

Ballots must be received by April 13, so plan ahead! Mail your ballot to: BEACON Senior Newspaper P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 The Volunteer of the Year is someone who goes above and beyond his or her usual duties and responsibilities in order to make a difference in the lives of others. This year, we received 20 amazing nominations. Since we have so many deserving and dedicated volunteers in the area, my only advice to you when voting for the Volunteer of the Year is “good luck.”

Here are the 2013 Volunteer of the Year nominees:

Nominated by Larry Robins, Central High School Bowling Team Julia Knott, otherwise known as “Coach Grandma,” has been part of the Central High School Bowling Team for the past five years. She volunteers for our club from October through February two days a week.

This year, her team won the championship competing against the local high schools here in the valley. This weekend, Coach Grandma and six of her players will be competing in the State High School Bowling Finals in Denver. I’m excited to have Julia, Coach Grandma, as part of Central High School’s Bowling Team.

Linda Douglass & Tiffany Joy the Yorkie Nominated by Jami Beck, Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado While many volunteers may plan their week around their scheduled volunteer time, there is one volunteer within Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado who anxiously awaits the days she works. She will never judge or speak out of turn and she certainly never gets bent out of shape when a patient falls asleep during her visit. For those reasons, Tiffany Joy, a Yorkshire terrier, and her “mom” Linda Douglass deserve to be Volunteer of the Year. This team brings such delight and innocent fun to patients at Hospice that they service each week. They never miss a beat.

With over 550 patient visits to date, Tiffany Joy and Linda dedicate time each week to visit the Hospice Care Center. Whether through a simple smile or a loving pet, patients have grown to love their time spent with Linda and Tiffany each week. Because pet therapy has grown into a modality that is shown to provide peace, comfort, and happiness to patients, it is clear that this complementary therapy is not going anywhere.

Here at Hospice, we couldn’t be happier about the commitment Tiffany Joy and Linda have to our patients and the way they change their lives one doggie kiss at a time.

Barbara Firth Nominated by Gai WildermuthGunter, Community Food Bank As a seasoned Community Food Bank volunteer (volunteering weekly for five years), Barb has been an invaluable resource to me during my first year as program coordinator.

She has shared the history and best practices. I depend on her input and advice when I consider implementing any changes to procedures that would affect our clients or other volunteers.

This past summer, I became ill and was unable to be at the food bank every day. While I was ill, Barb kept the doors of the food bank open, making sure everything ran smoothly. She kept our Board of Directors President Tom Eatwell abreast of any needs or problems. Knowing that Barb and Tom were working together gave me the peace of mind I needed to concentrate on getting healthy.

Barb put in up to eight hour days over several months doing data entry to get all our served clients into our new database and was instrumental in designing our new online client registration form. Once all our data was up to date, Barb focused her

experience and expertise on refining how we collect and record new client information.

Barb has come in almost every day since the beginning of January to train our volunteer interviewers on our new database procedures and data entry. She is also verifying all information that has been entered to ensure accuracy.

I know, without a doubt, that my first year at the Community Food Bank would not have been as enjoyable, successful or productive if Barb had not been beside me every step of the way.

Bob & Sharon Vogel Nominated by Melanie Wiseman, Grand Junction Visitor & Convention Bureau The Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau is proud to recognize the volunteer team of Bob and Sharon Vogel as this year’s outstanding volunteer. Sharon has volunteered for the VCB for 17 years and has volunteered 3,300 hours. Bob joined her seven years ago and has volunteered 600 hours.

Not only do Bob and Sharon volunteer on a regular Friday morning shift as tourism ambassadors, but they are often found helping out at VCB-supported special events, such as hospitality tables at conferences or sporting events. Their volunteerism is extremely important to economic development in the Grand Valley by making sure visitors have the best possible experience.

The Vogels also attend almost every monthly training fieldtrip or seminar the VCB provides. They make time for this training, as they value the new information they will learn, allowing them to give visitors better customer service. Bob and Sharon have also been volunteers for the Museum of the West, Cross Orchards,

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013 Marillac Clinic, the Business Incubator and Sacred Heart Church in Fruita. Sharon enjoys tap dancing, painting and her Bible Study Group.

Bob loves to sing, ham radio and computer work.

Their compassion for our visitors and those in our community make them our team choice for BeaconFest Volunteer of the Year.

Judy Baier Nominated by Evelyn Slade Judy Baier volunteers at Bookcliff Christian School five days a week. She works with children as a group and individually, taking a personal interest in each student. Her genuine concern for each student is apparent in her expressions of joy at their accomplishments. Judy is always looking for something more to do for our students, reading to them, helping with math, and interacting with them.

Three words that describe Judy at our school are enthusiastic, dependable, and excited. She is enthusiastic about the children and what they are learning. She is dependable regarding her assignments and excited to share with the children and pass that excitement on to them. Judy is also patient, especially with the littlest ones. Each and every child is special to her and she lets them know that.

Spence Bergner Nominated by Scott Kerkel, John McConnell Math & Science Center Spence is an incredible asset to the Math and Science Center. He has contributed 70 personal hours over this past year.

He truly loves helping out and guiding our student visitors through our hands-on exhibits. We all know who to call when we need to fill a position on short notice.

Spence has sponsored Astronomy Night, funding the event out of his own pocket, personally touching the lives of countless children by bringing armature astronomy into their

lives. Spence always donates supplies (out of pocket) and uses his maintenance and technical skills to maintain and repair exhibits currently on display. Spence has completely designed, manufactured and contributed his own time, experience, and craftsmanship to two exhibits, which he donated (chicken wire touch-sensitive display and Jacob’s Ladder).

Spence also volunteers with Operation Interdependence by packing and sending items to our troops. He assists and supports the Grand Valley Honor Guard with military funerals.

He teaches a personal protection/ concealed carry class and repairs wheel chairs and other equipment at the VA Medical Center. As you can see, Spence Bergner is an asset to far more than the Math and Science Center, but to our entire community as a whole. For this, I think Spencer Bergner should be recognized as the BEACON’s Volunteer of the Year.

Malinda Lyons Nominated by Mary Gonkales, Riverside Educational Center Malinda Lyons is a volunteer tutor at Riverside Educational Center. She has tutored for years with academically struggling students, most living in the Riverside neighborhood. Malinda is so generous with her time that she volunteers two days per week. And to the middle school and high school students at Riverside Educational Center, she is a positive and consistent presence. We thank Malinda for all her hard work.

Mark Liddiard Nominated by Jenny Aker, Thunder Mountain Elementary Mark is a retired police detective who volunteers teaching and playing chess to our students K-5. He does this four days a week during lunch break in the library. There is substantial evidence to the positive effect chess plays on academics, but the social interaction is a bonus as well.

Students receive one-on-one instruc-

volunteer of the year 11

tion and have an adult to interact with when needed. Students also learn to play with each other regardless of age or skill level. The more advanced players often coach the beginners, all under Mark’s supervision.

Many parents have come in, astonished to see their child playing chess.

Then they come in to practice and learn as well.

Mark leads a chess tournament one or two times a year here at Thunder Mountain Elementary, and supports students who participate in the Bookcliff tournaments.

It is obvious that playing chess with Mark Liddiard is the highlight of some of our students’ day.

Marie Adams Nominated by Diane Baker, Kids of the Kingdom Preschool Marie Adams has been a foster grandparent for our preschool for over 11 years and is an amazing asset to our program.

She volunteers with us five days a week at six hours a day and rarely misses a day! At the age of 85, she is still willing and able to get down on the floor with the children and play with them and give them positive attention. She goes above and beyond the duties and expectations we have of her. She gives special attention to the smaller and shyer children and helps them gain confidence in themselves. The children love her dearly and miss her when she isn’t here. I would highly recommend Marie Adams to be recognized as an outstanding volunteer of the year!

Maureen “Mo” Bloemsma Nominated by Marnie Benson, High Desert Opera Maureen Bloemsma is a volunteer extraordinaire. She is the reason High Desert Opera’s two fundraising events have been

such a success. She has single-handedly chaired the gala committee and kept everyone focused and accountable—no small feat! HDO is honored to have such a force on its team.

Her initiative on a volunteer basis has been the driving force behind HDO’s annual Sweetheart Gala. The uncountable hours spent, as well as her promotion efforts on behalf of HDO has helped to grow the organization and has furthered its mission of bringing opera and musical theater to Grand Junction. As these events translate into dollars earned by HDO, this makes Maureen a huge contributor to arts and culture on the Western Slope.

The love of opera and her belief in HDO motivate Mo in her efforts with the company. Her background in program directing, computer and language instruction, and network training has brought valuable tools to the HDO table. Her abilities, coupled with her execution of planning, budget setting, and coordinating HDO’s fundraising events, comprise a unique and priceless volunteer.

Maureen, initially introduced to High Desert Opera in the fall of 2011, was asked to create a valentine fundraising event. She joined the HDO board in 2012 and has contributed her time and energies to HDO ever since.

Beth Sanders Nominated by Anna Dove, Mesa View Elementary Beth Sanders brings her love of nature, animals, and learning into the hearts and minds of fourth graders. She is enthusiastic about taking on new things and is willing to share her immense background of knowledge.

Kids love working with “Ms. Beth” because she has invested into the likes and needs of each and every one of them. She often brings in items from her home that are unique to each student. They trust her and want to be with her. Ms. Beth sits in a student desk among the other desks,

12 volunteer of the year where she takes on all assignments with the students.

Ms. Beth actively participates in all school activities, which include dressing for spirit days and Halloween. She is dependable and willingly helps with any extra activities the principal asks her to help with.

Ms. Beth has a special talent for seeing things through each student’s eyes, and jumps right in without waiting to be asked. While the teacher is occupied with content standards, assessment, differentiation, etc., Ms. Beth brings fun and community into the classroom. It’s like having a second teacher, only better.

Lela Ala Nominated by Lila Williams Zeck Lela has volunteered with her music by playing all over Montrose for years. She has played at funerals and all kinds of get-togethers. She is marvelous. She is near 90 years old and has been crippled most of her life but continues to show up at several events and plays piano at the senior center a couple of times a week.

Edwina Herman Nominated by Sheli Apodaca, Gray Gourmet Meal Sites Edwina Herman has been a Gray Gourmet volunteer since May of 2002. She faithfully volunteers two times a week at the Senior Recreation Center. She is the registrar who kindly greets diners, collects money donations, and assists with serving food as needed. Edwina always makes new diners feel welcome by introducing them to regular diners. She understands all aspects of the Gray Gourmet program and is able to answer questions diners might have, and has recruited new volunteers for Gray Gourmet. Edwina

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com gives five hours of her time each day she volunteers. After working at the Senior Recreation Center, she then comes to the Gray Gourmet office where she gathers all the monies received from all nine meal sites and compiles one large deposit. Her many years of working in banks has proven to be valuable for her work at Gray Gourmet.

Edwina has three children and three grandchildren. She is dedicated and kind and Gray Gourmet is blessed to have her for a volunteer.

She is a valuable part of the team.

Linda Aiken Nominated by Linda Wieland, Dos Rios Elementary I am nominating Linda Aiken, who is not just a volunteer, but also an integral part of my classroom. She has come rain or shine for the past two years, three mornings a week. Her mornings consist of grading papers, working with a reading group, working with individual children needing help, giving hugs and listening to whatever a child needs to share for comfort or celebration. I am very fortunate to have such a loving, dedicated volunteer.

Kenneth Zarecor Nominated by Karen Kllanxhja, Mesa County Libraries Literacy Center Kenneth Zarecor is the Mesa County Libraries Literacy Center nominee for the 2013 BeaconFest Volunteer of the Year Award. Ken came to the library in the fall of 2010 looking to volunteer. A retired New York special education teacher with a particular expertise in history, reading, and writing was a perfect fit for The Literacy Center. On our application, we ask when a volunteer is available.

Ken checked Monday through Friday in the mornings and afternoons. We took him seriously and put him right to work.

Ken’s first assignment was basic English instruction for a small group

March 2013

of Chinese students. He taught the group two days a week. At the same time, he took on an individual student for one-on-one tutoring.

Ken has worked with seven students individually, and he continues to work with five of them. His students are from all over the world: Mexico, the U.S., Korea, Laos, Russia, China, and Vietnam.

Ken is always searching for the best available materials to assist his students. His patient and understanding demeanor puts them at ease and assists in the learning process.

Ken’s outstanding dedication to his students is why we feel he should be awarded Volunteer of the Year. We are so fortunate that Ken found us.

Cindy White Nominated by Elaine JohnsonCraig, RoiceHurst Humane Society When you think of all of the volunteer “hats” that could be worn at a nonprofit animal shelter, you’d be hard pressed to find too many that Cindy White hasn’t worn.

After relocating with her husband from the Chicago area in the fall of 2010, Cindy was looking to find a local humane society in need of volunteers. Within a few months, she was walking dogs at Roice-Hurst Humane Society on a regular basis. Soon, she was transporting dogs to adoption events and the groomer, and taking them on “day hikes” on the local river trails.

Cindy helped with the preparation and transporting of animals when the shelter moved into its new facility on 28 Road and has helped keep the place spruced up by planting flowers and decorating for various holidays.

When the staff needs help with laundry or washing pet dishes, she dives right in. She’s also helped promote and made handicrafts for fundraising events.

Perhaps Cindy’s most significant contribution is her role in RoiceHurst’s community outreach efforts.

She leads a small cadre of dedicated

volunteers who do presentations (with an adoptable dog or two when possible) to groups in assisted living facilities, classrooms, the library, and more.

“I love animals, especially those that are homeless,” Cindy said. “I want to be able to do something to help them during their stay with us and to eventually help them find forever homes.”

The animals and their caretakers at Roice-Hurst are glad that Cindy walked through their door!

Barbara Hargis Nominated by Ingir Beman, Mesa County Department of Human Services Barbara has volunteered with the clerical team at the Department of Human Services since February 27, 2006. She is 85 years young and logged 597 hours of time in 2012. Barbara has helped in several areas for the clerical team from putting packets together to working with clients and visitors.

She currently batches all DHS documents before sending them to our IT Department for scanning. She is very detail minded, has a great work ethic, is very thorough in her work and is a role model and inspiration to the clerical team, other volunteers and the entire department. Barbara is a great team player and knows how to have fun!

Dallas Bottineau Nominated by Liz Montague and staff, Chatfield Elementary Dallas Bottineau is the world’s best volunteer!

She goes above and beyond the call of duty for our school. Not only is she a parent of a Chatfield and Grand Mesa student and a loving wife, but she is also a full-time nurse at a local doctor’s office, and she helps with the Boy

March 2013 Scout Program, donates time to her church, and is also our PTO president.

She manages all of our fundraisers, plans many school-wide events, works in our classrooms with students who need extra support, and does all sorts of clerical work from running and grading papers to laminating art projects. She has a great sense of humor, loves all the students, and brings a smile to our faces each time she arrives at school. We appreciate all her effort and time she donates to help others. She is a huge asset and a great friend to Chatfield Elementary and we adore her.

Mary Melcher Nominated by Amy Neil and Pam Hamilton, Tope Elementary We would love to nominate Mary

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Melcher for the Volunteer of the Year award. Mary is a wonderful volunteer in our first grade classroom and our school. She shares her time and talents with our students and us four days a week, six hours a day.

She is always available for whatever task we might need her to do. She inspires our students to do their best and encourages them to continue to become well-rounded students.

Mary uses her talents as a former occupational therapist to help our first grade students develop proper handwriting skills. This talent has been noted by several teachers in the building. Mary also spends time volunteering in the library. Her attitude is always wonderful with students and teachers alike. We are very blessed to have Mary volunteer here at Tope Elementary. ■

Invest in your community and leave an enduring legacy

S

trive, formerly difference in the Mesa Developlives of people mental Services, right here in is a local nonyour community. profit providing A bequest or support services other planned to 780 people giving to Strive from birth to is truly an investend of life with ment in humana disability or ity and improvdevelopmental ing the social delay. Services health of your for children can community…a frequently be great return on The sky is the limit, literally, for people with discorrective. The abilities who have quality support services. your investment! opportunity to Strive is proud change the course of a child’s life of their reputation for improving through intervention is most success- lives, their transparency and their ful during the rapid brain developfiscal integrity with only 10 percent ment period of birth to age 3. More administrative overhead, which is far than half of the children in this probelow many other charitable orgagram will reach age appropriate denizations. To review a full report of velopment with no need for further Strive’s organizational information services. Services for adults can help or other charities you support, visit them be more self-sufficient and in www.guidestar.org where you can many cases, they become taxpayers. search their database of more than Organizations providing human 1.8 million IRS-recognized nonprofit services must continually make cuts reports. and seek supplemental revenue to For more information about leavprovide services. Regardless of your ing a charitable gift, call 256-8640 or means, you can choose to make a visit www.strivecolorado.org. ■

volunteer of the year 13

Vote for your favorite

Volunteer of the Year Awards 2013 It’s as e asy as 1… 2…3 With so many wonderful volunteers to choose from, we at the BEACON need your help! All nominees are featured in this month’s issue of the BEACON with a short description of why they were nominated.

1. Read about each volunteer on the previous pages 2. Pick your volunteer  Marie Adams  Shirley Dallo  Melinda Lyons  Linda Aiken  Linda Douglass  Mary Melcher  Lela Ala  Barbara Firth  Beth Sanders  Judy Baler  Barbara Hargis  Bob & Sharon Vogel  Spense Bergner  Edwina Herman  Cindy White  Maureen Bloemsma  Julia Knott  Kenneth Zarecor  Dallas Bottineau  Mark Liddiard 3. Vote for your favorite volunteer online at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com or Mail this official ballot to: PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 The winner will be announced at BeaconFest, Thursday, April 18, 12:50 p.m., at Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St., Grand Junction.

Please have all ballots submitted by April 13, 2013.

14 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

LIGHT GIVES HEAT

K J K J K J K J K J K J K K K J J

KEEP DREAMING TAKING

RISKS

KEEP LISTENING TO THAT SMALL VOICE

TELLING YOU THAT LIFE CAN BE

BIGVBEAUTIFUL

Messy

K J K J K J K J K J K J K K K J J

LIGHTGIVESHEAT.ORG 970-242-1958 2507 Weslo Ave. Grand Junction

Investments may go to general operating or a specific Partners Program:  One-to-One Mentoring  Western Colorado Youth Conservation Corps  Restitution/Community Service ---- Juvenile Offender Program  Mesa Youth Services Foundation Partners will work with donors and their advisors to identify the purpose within Partners that most closely meets the donor’s wishes.

March 2013

Light Gives Heat Interview with co-founder Dave Hansow Q. What does Light Gives Heat do?

We create and sustain jobs in Uganda, Africa for over 100 artisans and inspire those of us in the West to “be the change we want to see in the world.” Using stories of hope, courage, and beauty from Africa, we get to inspire thousands around the country.

Q. How did it get started?

In 2006, my wife Morgan and I started the adoption process from Uganda. Over a year later, we were still in the waiting process and didn’t see an end in sight.

One day Morgan came to me and said, “I think we should just move there.” That day, we decided as a family to quit our jobs and move to Uganda to not only finish our adoption, but also to start Light Gives Heat.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments thus far?

Being able to create and sustain over 100 jobs in Uganda for six years has been no small feat. Every time we visit our staff and artisans in Uganda, I am blown away at the impact we have. It’s a humbling thought to know that normal people like us can have such a huge impact.

Secondly, having finished an award-winning film (www. movingonmovie.com) about the story of LGH has been an incredible experience as well.

And being on the Oprah Show was pretty humbling, too.

Q. How can people learn more or get involved?

The best way is to visit www.lightgivesheat. org. Watch videos, read more, or even shop online to support our artisans. We are a 501(c)(3) and rely on donations to expand and grow the work we are doing around the world. Contact us at 242-1958 or visit us at 2507 Weslo Ave. in Grand Junction. ■

Invest in Mesa County youth R utherford Institute Founder John W. Whitehead once said, “Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see.”

The most important legacy you can leave is not only with your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but with all children.

Partners has served the youth of Mesa County for 36 years through our Mentoring Program, the Community Service/Restitution Program and the Western Colorado Youth Conservation Corps. Each year, 1,600 local youth come through our doors.

By choosing to leave a monetary gift with Partners, you are ensuring that future generations live in a community where youth are valued, creating great future neighbors.

Partners Executive Director Joe Higgins reflects on his time with his former Junior Partner, Felipe: “Felipe tells the story of how he could have been involved in a seri-

ous crime back in 1994. Rather than hanging out with his peer, who is now serving a life sentence in the department of corrections, Felipe was with me on a hike in Glade Park. It is clear to Felipe and me that a mentoring relationship can change two lives for the better.

When I broke my hip in 2010, Felipe was one of the first people to come to my assistance. Felipe used his handyman skills to fix a chair and install safety equipment in our bathroom as I learned to walk again.

Felipe is now 31, operates his own renovation business, and is married with three children.”

Joe’s relationship with Felipe changed not only their lives, but the lives of Felipe’s children and grandchildren as well. A dollar spent on the future is never a dollar wasted.

For more information, call 245-5555 or visit www.mesapartners.org. ■

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

Create a legacy 15

Western Colorado Chorale celebrates freedom

C

ome support our country’s service members and show your appreciation for our freedom!

The Western Colorado Chorale will present “Let Freedom Sing,” a concert featuring stirring tributes to freedom, patriotism and democracy. They will be joined by members of the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra and Kathryn Mientka.

With this concert’s patriotic theme, the Chorale is offering buy-one-getone free tickets to all veterans and active service members. Kids Voting, a local organization that encourages and teaches kids to vote, will host refreshments at intermission.

The concert is at 7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, March 18 and 19 in the Recital Hall of the Moss Performing Arts Center at Colorado Mesa University. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and $5 for students. Tickets

are available at the door or by calling the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra box office at 243-6787 or www.gjsymphony.org.

The Western Colorado Chorale is a 48-voice auditioned choir with the objective of presenting high quality classical choral music in the Grand Valley area. The choir is directed by CMU Director of Choral Activities Dr. Monte Atkinson. The choir performs four major concerts each year, including one with the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra. Past concerts have included major works such as Brahms’ “Requiem” and Bach’s “B Minor Mass” as well as delightful works like John Rutter’s “Gloria” and Joseph Haydn’s “Lord Nelson Mass.”

For more information on the Western Colorado Chorale, visit our Facebook page or www.westerncolo radochorale.org. ■

Send students to visit the Monument

C

hances are, if your children or grandchildren have taken a field trip to the Monument lately, the Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA) paid for the school buses.

Last fall, the CNMA funded a total of $4,702 in transportation for 1,878 local students on 42 buses to visit the Monument and take part in rangerled hikes and activities.

The CNMA has supported the Colorado National Monument since 1964—that’s nearly 50 years! The CNMA’s most visible presence is in the retail store in the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. We operate the store, filled with lots of informative books and unique Monument souvenirs, and use the profits, as well as CNMA membership dues and donations, to pay for all kinds of programs, including free literature for visitors to the Monument, the slide shows in the auditorium, and transportation for local school groups. In addition to helping the

Monument, CNMA members receive announcements, e-newsletters, and invitations to lots of fun programs at the Monument, including hikes, lectures, meetings, and even social events.

CNMA members also serve as volunteers at the Monument and at a variety of “monumental” events.

This year, we need over $60,000 to pay for a variety of programs, including production of a new introductory visitor video for the Visitor Center, publication of the 2013 Visitor Guide, and the “Ticket to Ride” program, to provide transportation for local schoolchildren to visit the Monument. Please help us by becoming a member of the Colorado National Monument Association.

Call us at 858-3617, ext. 307 or 308, email us at info@coloradonma.org, or visit our website at www.coloradon ma.org. You can also sign up at the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. ■

How can you support the Monument?

Become a Member of the CNMA Join the Ranger Volunteers-in-Parks program Donate to fund educational programs Visit www.coloradonma.org to join or learn more about events and follow us on Facebook.

Check out the free Spring Walks & Talks.

info@coloradonma.org

It’s lambing season on the Monument!

Colorado National Monument Association

970.858.3617, Ext. 307 or 308

16 Create a legacy

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March 2013

The Art Center’s legacy: supporting a creative community T he Art Center is a busy place and is both an innovator and historian for the arts on the Western Slope. Founded in 1953, The Art Center will be 60 years old in September.

A strong future depends on a growing endowment to ensure the continued growth and ambitious visions of all currently involved and for future generations. The Art Center Foundation is a separate entity established to support the long-term health and vitality of The Art Center. The Foundation Endowment provides funds for now and well into the future.

Planned giving is an important and thoughtful way to ensure The Art Center can continue to grow through multiple generations. The Art Center’s founders made great sacrifices to build a welcoming place to create, and to see and talk about the artistic process, but it is up to every generation to take ownership and make The Art Center relevant and vital to its community year after year.

Here are a few ways to leave a creative legacy to the Western Slope and its children:

• Make an outright gift of cash, appreciated securities or personal property. You will receive a tax deduction and avoid capital gains tax.

• Name The Art Center in a charitable bequest and defer the gift until after your lifetime.

• Make a gift of your retirement plan by naming The Art Center as the remainder beneficiary.

• Make a gift through a living trust by naming The Art Center as the beneficiary.

Please consider including The Art Center in your estate planning. Art has changed lives and built communities. Every great civilization has supported its artists, craftsmen and designers.

In 1952, artists and community members knew that if they built an

a legacy worthy of your consideration.

in Grand Junction. For more informaart center, it would be used and valtion, call the front desk at 250-1238 ued. Please continue to support your or visit The Art Center’s website at art center’s efforts now and for the www.gjartcenter.org. ■ future.

For information on legacy giving, contact Camille Silverman at 243-7337, ext. 4 or email csilverman@gjartcenter. org. We continually get better at what we do through interaction and support from people like you.

The Art Center’s regular hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday.

Admission is $3. Tuesdays are free and open to the public through the generous sponsorship of Home Loan Investment and Allied Insurance. First Friday receptions are also free and open to the public with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and closing at 9 p.m. The Art Center is Clay artist Ashtonn Means at work. located at 1803 N. Seventh St.

"The only thing you take with you when you're gone is what you leave behind."

John Allston

Please consider The Art Center in your legacy giving.

For planned giving opportunities call (970) 243-7337 ext 4 or visit www.gjartcenter.org

The Western Colorado Center for the Arts 1803 North 7th Street, Grand Junction, Colorado