November 2019 - Mesa County

FALLING UMBRELLA MAN

Local vet literally jumped at the chance to serve his country

It’s time to vote for the 2020 BEACON Best! Turn to page 27 to nominate your favorite hot spots!

14

Drug prices got you down?

Learn the pros and cons of Canada's cheaper pharmaceuticals.

28

MESA COUNTY

BEST L OCAL

LOVED

2020

Know your veteran benefits Plus, find out about Veterans Day events, resources and more.

MESA COUNTY

NOVEMBER 2019

Volume: 32 | Issue: 11

Mesa County’s Monthly Magazine for Adults 50+ with over 34,125 Readers

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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COMMUNITY CONCERTS OF THE GRAND VALLEY • 2019-2020 SERIES

Rockapella rocks Grand Junction

By Jan Weeks

“W

here in the World is Carmen Sandiego?”

That’s what millions of kids (and maybe you, too) wanted to know in 1991 when the geography quiz show for young people premiered on PBS. The vocal group and house band Rockapella introduced the show with a catchy theme song and provided musical clues and background vocals as contestants used those and other tips provided

by Greg Lee, the head ACME Crime Net gumshoe, to track Carmen and her nefarious partners in crime around the world.

That’s how the contemporary a cappella group found national television fame—even though it has been around since the 1980s.

Though none of the four original members are still with the group, Rockapella has evolved through the decades and now they’re bringing their unique style to Grand Junction courtesy of Community Concerts of the Grand Valley.

The group has inspired countless vocalists and brought contemporary a cappella music into the spotlight. The popularity of NBC's "Sing-off," the movie “Pitch Perfect,” and countless college

groups attest to the resurgence of voice-only groups.

Chief songwriter and high tenor Scott Leonard previously sang in rock groups for Disney. His songwriting skills and ability to arrange songs for the group are essential to the sound. His goal in creating a dynamic sound is to “make it rock and make it interesting.”

Jeff Thacher is the human beatbox of the group. He provides the percussive sounds of drums and more using only his voice.

“There’s nothing between us and the audience—it’s very human music—with nothing missing,” Thacher said.

Tenors Calvin Jones and Mitchell Rains, along with bass singer Bryant Vance, round out the group as it performs original songs and puts a contemporary twist on Motown favorites, pop picks and soul songs.

“Stand By Me” has been called the best version ever by fans. “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” brings back memories of The Tokens’ 1961 hit.

You’ll find no mirrors, no hidden instruments and no backtracks at Rockapella’s performances.

“People have a hard time believing it’s just us making all of that music. It’s still those same elements

SEE THEM LIVE! Rockapella

December 1 at 3 p.m Grand Junction High School auditorium Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Season tickets to all performances in the 2019-2020 series are $80 for adults. Individual event tickets can be purchased for $25 for adults if seats are available. For more information visit www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.org or call 243-1979.

WIN TICKETS FROM THE BEACON! If you could meet any musician, dead or alive, who would it be?

Send us your answer, along with your name, email and phone number to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com or BEACON Senior News, PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502.

Your name will be entered into a drawing for two tickets to see Rockapella at Grand Junction High School. Winners will be notified by November 20.

that make modern band music: percussion, bass, melody and harmonies,” Leonard said.

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EDITORIAL COLUMN

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Managing Editor Cloie Sandlin Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg Graphic Designers Chrissy Martin B. Bigler Office Manager Stacey Splude Advertising Assistant Siggie Carpenter Advertising Executives Sue Bowen Debra Romaniec Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Cora Gentry Lauren VanGundy JR Milner

P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Phone: 970.243.8829 Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month. Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

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

Display advertising rates are available upon request.

Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication. © Copyright 2019 • All Rights Reserved

Can’t find the BEACON at City Market?

Then head to Safeway!

C

ity Market’s corporation (Kroger) decided they will no longer allow free papers like the BEACON in their stores. While we’re disappointed in their decision, there are plenty of places to pick up the BEACON around town (like Safeway!)

Here are just a few other hot spots: Grand Junction • Texas Roadhouse • Post Office (downtown) • Goodwill • St. Mary’s Pavilion • Mesa County Health & Human Services Palisade/Clifton • Family Food Town • Post Office (Palisade & Clifton) • Dos Hombres Fruita • Family Health West • Starvin’ Arvin’s • Fruita Community Center • Walgreens

BOGO HOLIDAY SPECIAL The best way to ensure that you get your BEACON every month is to subscribe. Normally, it’s $20 for one year or $30 for two, but in the spirit of the holiday season, you can gift the BEACON to a friend for free when you purchase a subscription for yourself.

It also guarantees

you won’t miss out on any senior-related news and events including The BEACON Guide, our annual resource directory, which comes with January's BEACON. This popular publication includes hard-to-find contact information for clubs, medical offices, reputable businesses and government agencies, which are verified annually for accuracy.

Do you know of an organization we should include? Call us at 243-8829 or email Beacon@ PendantPublishing.com.

A SALUTE TO VETERANS It’s appropriate that Veterans Day and Thanksgiving are both in November. This month’s BEACON honors our military men and women with stories of wartime and appreciation of their service. Veteran Robert Kirner recalls jumping out of planes during the Korean conflict, and six centenarians share World War II memories that never made the history books.

BEACON READERS KNOW BEST! Tell us who stands above the rest with the 2020 BEACON Best Awards! Recognize those that have earned your trust and your business with this coveted award for superior customer service. Let them know you're rooting for them. By voting, you're entered in a chance to win prizes and gift cards to some of those favorite spots.

Mail in the ballot on page 27 or vote online at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com. ■

Cloie Sandlin, Managing Editor

IN THIS ISSUE...

Cover Photo: Time may have clipped Robert Kirner's wings a bit, but this rakkasan (a Japanese term loosely meaning "falling umbrella man") has not let advancing years slow him down.

8 24

Host a Friendsgiving Tell your friends over turkey that you're thankful for them.

Around the world by rail Explore these scenic train tours in the U.S. and abroad!

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM |

32 38

VA honors centenarians 100-year-old veterans share history that never made the books.

Before Prozac, there was pie!

Grandma knew the healing power of a homemade pie, baked out of love, compassion.

NOVEMBER 2019 | EDITORIAL COLUMN | 5

COVER STORY

Rakkasan remembers a forgotten war

By Debra Dobbins on't know what a Rakkasan is?

Neither did Grand Junction veteran Robert Kirner, 89, when he enlisted in the military.

Kirner’s story begins in 1947 when he dropped out of high school in Wisconsin. He began working at a meat processing plant but knew he wanted to do something different. In 1948, he decided to enlist in the military even though he was a month shy of his 18th birthday. Undeterred, he falsified the year of birth on his birth certificate. After a casual glance at the paper, the Army recruiter said, “Okay, you’re in.”

He told the recruiter he wanted to be a paratrooper, to which the recruiter replied, “You’re crazy.”

Unfazed, Kirner said, “Well, it pays $50 more a month.”

Kirner went to basic training at Fort Ord by Monterey, California.

He then shipped out as part of the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment to Japan, which was still under the post-war occupation led by General Douglas MacArthur. Kirner spent some of his eight-month deployment to Japan on the island of Hokkaido, near the city of Sapporo.

While in Japan, Kirner went to jump school, which lasted only two weeks.

“The second week we were jumping out of C46 transport planes,” he said, adding that paratroopers wore gear that weighed almost as much as they did.

Japanese locals had a whimsical term for American paratroopers.

They called each paratrooper a rakkasan, which, loosely translated, means “falling umbrella man.” The nickname stuck, and the Americanized plural form, Rakkasans, soon became an established way to identify members of the regiment.

After his first stint in Japan, Kirner returned stateside and was stationed at Fort Campbell, Ken-

NOT ONCE, BUT TWICE KIRNER JUMPED OUT OF A PLANE IN FULL DAYLIGHT, A FLOATING TARGET FOR ENEMY SNIPERS—IF THEY WERE QUICK ENOUGH.

D

Top: Despite rigorous times during his military service, Robert Kirner keeps a positive outlook. Photo by Debra Dobbins. Right: Kirner keeps this photo picturing paratroopers from the Korean War on his shelf. tucky, for 18 months. It was a short 18 months.

KOREA-BOUND On June 25, 1950, North Korea invaded South Korea after a series of skirmishes along the 38th parallel and quickly thereafter took almost the whole length of the peninsula, as far south as Pusan. Two months after the war started, Kirner was shipped out.

“They made the 187th Regiment a regimental combat team and sent us to Korea via Japan,” Kirner said.

6 | COVER STORY | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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“It was all a hurry-up affair.”

For good reason. Historians noted that North Korea dominated the conflict early on. The U.S. suffered a significant number of casualties in the first quarter of the war.

Although the Korean war was the first that the United Nations entered, it was primarily fought by South Korea and the United States against North Korea and China, and 21 other U.N. countries sent troops and/or

supplies. The Soviet Union was also in the fight, backing North Korea.

Kirner landed at Pusan, Korea, in September and spent nine frigid months fighting in the country.

He suffered from dysentery, all the while enduring Siberian winds that can reduce temperatures to a bone-numbing cold. According to Kirner, he overheard others say it was the coldest winter in 100 years in that region.

Not once, but twice Kirner jumped out of a plane in full daylight, a floating target for enemy snipers—if they were quick enough. The plane flew at an exceptionally low altitude of 500 feet, which meant Kirner and his fellow paratroopers were only in the air 25-35 seconds after they jumped.

One day, nearly 3,800 men jumped.

“It was just solid parachutes up there,” Kirner said, all a target for enemy fire. Wave after wave of C-119 aircraft let paratroopers loose upon the enemy, and it had its effect.

Slowly the tide began to turn against the North Koreans. Troops fighting on behalf of South Korea created a united front and kept pushing the North Koreans back to their own country—those who survived, anyway.

“We just kept moving, taking over, and moving on,” Kirner said.

Fighting was intense, and Kirner

Question Month of the

Compiled by Melanie Wiseman

If you could relive a happy moment in your life, what would it be?

Robert Kirner, right, with his brother in front of Kir ner's Cessna 172.

feels lucky to have come out of it alive.

THE FORGOTTEN WAR More than a few buddies were lost in a conflict that is estimated to have caused 33,686 U.S. battle deaths, along with 2,830 non-battle deaths. All in all, historians estimate that 5 million soldiers and civilians lost their lives on both sides of the struggle.

Then there was the general who lost his job. In April 1951, President Harry Truman relieved MacArthur of his command after some spats between the two. Historians say that MacArthur had asked Truman to let him bomb Communist China and bring into the fighting national Chinese troops from Taiwan. Fearing China’s reaction to such moves, Truman said no, and soon after replaced MacArthur with General Mathew Ridgeway. Nevertheless, MacArthur came home to a hero’s welcome.

Unfortunately, this was in sharp contrast to the attention given to some of his troops in California.

“They spit on us,” Kirner recalled.

The war came to a halt—not an end—when both sides decided upon a border at the 38th parallel. Combatants signed only an armistice, or truce, rather than a full-fledged peace treaty on July 27, 1953. South Korea refused to sign.

Both sides still guard the DMZ at the 38th parallel.

Compared to most wars, the Ko-

rean War was relatively short, and it was squeezed between World War II and the buildup to the Vietnam War. It received little media attention, and it became known as the Forgotten War.

Larry Scheid “I have a snapshot in my mind that changed my life. I was 6 years old. It was my first football game and it was a ‘field of dreams thing’ in northeast Colorado: green grass, bright lights, trucks parked around the field. I fell in love with sports because of that night.”

CIVILIAN LIFE After leaving the service, Kirner married and had five children. He chose police work as his next profession, putting in 30 years on the job in both Arizona and Wisconsin.

In his free time, he learned to fly an airplane and later bought one.

He agreed that it is much better to be at the controls of a plane rather than in the back waiting for an order to jump.

He moved from Page, Arizona, to the Western Slope 32 years ago, and continued flying.

“I flew mostly from the Midwest to the West Coast,” Kirner said, adding that he racked up about 1,500 hours of flying on his private time.

Inevitably, time has clipped Kirner’s wings a bit, but this Rakkasan has not let advancing years slow him down. He still displays a quick wit and sincere interest in helping other people.

Recently, he was recognized by the Western Slope VFW Post and Auxiliary 3981 for a generous contribution to the post.

Kirner always does his best to give others some good cheer—to laugh or at least crack a smile.

“I’m 89 and I’m still having fun!” he said. ■

Tommie Walsh “I lost my dad 11 years ago and my mom last month. I will never forget seeing them walking together and holding hands. My dad always took my mom’s hand, showing unspoken love.”

Scott Hogue “The birth of my first child in 1988.

The unexpected commitment and immediate love. I didn’t know I could love that way.”

Nancy Miller “I was the youngest of seven children so time alone with each of my parents was really special.

Walking home from downtown through the park with my dad whistling and singing when I was 4. Selling VFW poppies for Memorial Day with my mom always made me feel good.”

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM |

NOVEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY | 7

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Friendsgiving and solitary celebrations

Make the most of Thanksgiving Day

By Kimberly Blaker he long-held tradition of the family gathered around a table for a savory Thanksgiving feast carries fond memories for most. Yet many will spend the day alone, either out of circumstance or by choice.

Whatever the case, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday without family. So whether you go it alone or decide to host a Friendsgiving feast, these tips will allow you to make the most of your holiday.

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The upside of spending Thanksgiving alone is that you can celebrate any way you choose. Be sure to plan ahead to make the most of your day. Or, simply sit back and relax while everyone else is running around making last-minute preparations like a turkey with its head cut off.

One of the benefits of spending the day alone is that you can feast on anything your heart desires. If you like cooking, it's the perfect day to pull out your favorite recipes and treat yourself to a gourmet meal. It doesn’t have to be turkey!

If cooking isn't your thing, you

can still indulge by eating out. A few restaurants are open on Thanksgiving, and some will even serve a Thanksgiving dinner. Just make your reservation a week or so in advance because restaurants often book up early for the holiday.

One place that doesn't shut down on Thanksgiving is the movie theater. Catch up on the latest flick while treating yourself to hot buttery popcorn or your favorite movie snack.

Need to burn off those calories?

The weather isn’t that cold yet!

Take advantage of the late fall temperatures to get some fresh air, go for a bike ride or hike.

STAY-CATION On the other hand, you can stay in where it's cozy and warm and bask in a home spa treatment. Give yourself a manicure, pedicure, facial or even try out a new hair color.

Thanksgiving is also an excellent day for a trip down memory lane.

Pour a glass of wine, play some music from your past, and flip through photo albums or watch home videos.

Is there a book you've been

dying to read? Curl up on the couch and spend the entire day relaxing and reading. It's also the perfect opportunity to call family or friends you haven't spoken to in a while.

So give them a ring and catch up, especially if you know they’ll be spending the holiday alone, too.

Maybe you'd really like to do something good for the soul and for others. If so, offer to help at a soup kitchen. If you’re looking to purge closets, another option is to take up a coat collection. Then, on Thanksgiving day, deliver the coats to a homeless shelter.

FRIENDSGIVING Even if you don't have family around for the holidays, you don't have to spend Thanksgiving alone.

In fact, many people opt to spend the day with friends to avoid family drama or uncomfortable conversations (ahem, politics) that all too often erupt at family Thanksgiving gatherings.

Odds are you have friends, co-workers, neighbors, or acquaintances who will also be spending the day alone. So why not host a Friendsgiving feast? Even if you spend Thanksgiving day with family, Friendsgiving has gained so much popularity in recent years that many people hold a Friendsgiving dinner on Friday or Saturday so they can enjoy the company of their friends also.

There are a lot of ways to do your Friendsgiving, which might depend, in part, on the size of your guest list. If it's only a couple of you, split the grocery list, then plan to cook together that day. You could also skip the hassle and make reservations in advance for an enjoyable dinner out.

For celebrations with a bigger guest list, a potluck might be your best bet. Planning ahead will reduce the amount of work and stress on your part so that everyone can have a good time. ■

How to host a potluck

Friendsgiving

Great News for Mesa County New Medicare Advantage Plans Available for the First Time When it comes to making a decision about Medicare—and how you are going to cover the 20% that isn’t covered by original Medicare—everyone wants ample options. For years there has been a very limited menu to choose from. But this has changed for 2020.

Several new companies are now in the area and are offering Medicare Advantage Plans in Mesa County for the first time. Some of these plans offer substantial benefits.

For example ● F Dental Benefits ● F Vision Benefits ● F Hearing Benefits ● F Wellness Benefits

This is a special time for Mesa County Medicare beneficiaries. It appears that major Insurance companies are recognizing the need for more options for those searching for Medicare Advantage Coverage that is right for them. It is important to acknowledge that everyone is different and has different needs. The more choices Medicare beneficiaries have here in Mesa County the better opportunity each Medicare beneficiary has to find the plan that is right for them. To learn more about new Advantage plans available in Mesa County you are invited to attend a Medicare Advantage Sales Meeting.

Learn more You can learn about these new plans at 10:30 a.m. every Saturday at Canyon View Vineyard Church. From November 2 - December 7. Just enter through the administration entrance and follow the signs. The church is located at 736 24 ½ Road, Grand Junction.

• As the host, offer to cook the turkey or meat dish yourself.

• Ask each person to bring one or two specific side dishes such as veggies, mashed potatoes, snacks, desserts, or perhaps their favorite beer or wine.

• You can also ask guests to bring ice, coolers, tableware, serving utensils, folding chairs, folding tables, and tablecloths.

• Plan for some form of entertainment such as music, cards

or games. If all your guests are football fans, you’re in luck!

• Will friends be bringing kids?

If so, have a clean childproof room available where they can play away from the adults.

However you choose to spend your day, the most important thing is to enjoy it and know you're in good company—whether it be the company of yourself, acquaintances, or friends.

Additionally, Martin Crowe offers private meetings to review Medicare plans. Just call him at (970) 260-8285 to set up a meeting. As a broker, Crowe represents most Medicare Plans available in Colorado including Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, final expense and indemnity plans.

Whether you are taking advantage of the Annual Enrollment Period to choose a new plan or you are aging in for the first time, we can help.

970-260-8285

For accommodations of individuals with special needs at meetings, please call 970-260-8285 ADD TTY 711.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

9

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Beach Boys' biggest fan Story and photo by Jan Weeks

I

f there were a trivia contest featuring the Beach Boys, Rusty Stark would win by a landslide.

Stark fell in love with their beach music the first time he heard them on the radio in the mid ’60s.

Stark, 68, grew up in Iowa, about as far from a beach as one can get.

It didn’t matter. When he married, he turned his wife and kids into followers, too.

“I sang my son and daughter to sleep at night with Beach Boys songs,” Stark said.

So when Stark heard that Sail On, the tribute band that kicked off Community Concerts of the Grand Valley's 75th season, was coming to town, he couldn’t pass up the show.

He and wife Marlene had gotten back from a trip only two days before the concert, but they scored tickets. Was the music worth it?

“Sail On is the best tribute band

10 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

I’ve ever heard. If they’d had an album available I would have bought it,” Stark said.

Stark was particularly impressed with the background videos of Brian Wilson and Mike Love talking that played between songs.

BEACH BOY MANIA Stark has many memories of Beach Boys concerts. His collection of memorabilia fills a table, including programs, song lists and an envelope containing ticket stubs from every concert. The two he’s most proud of are items he took to a Beach Boys concert. The left-hand panel of a hand-lettered sign shows ticket stubs from all the concerts he’s attended and the right side displays a handwritten message telling front man Mike Love this was Stark’s 29th concert and also his birthday. Love reportedly stopped the music and said, “Sir, slow

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down. You’re going to have a heart attack!” Stark had brought Love’s memoir, “Good Vibrations,” with him and held it out. Love crouched down, shook his hand and signed the book.

Stark saw the Beach Boys in concert at the Budweiser Arena in Greeley, where the band members tossed beach balls into the crowd.

When Stark went to a concert in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kenny Rogers was in the audience and disrupted the performance so much that security escorted him out. At another concert he saw John Stamos drumming with the Beach Boys.

Stark first took his children to concerts when they were still in elementary school, and April and Austin continue to love the music.

When the original members of the Beach Boys played a 50th anniversary concert at Red Rocks, Stark sprang for tickets for him, Marlene, and the kids. Although it cost him $600, he considers it money well spent.

Recently, he and April had the always-difficult discussion about final arrangements. Stark made two requests: that all his memorabilia be put in his casket and that his favorite songs, “Barbara Ann” and “God Only Knows,” be played at his funeral.

Will Stark continue to attend concerts? Of course. He’s a “forever” fan. ■

Too many friends?

Dear Old Bag: I recently visited my friend in Phoenix, where I picked up a newspaper called "Lovin' Life After 50." I was thumbing through the paper when I saw your picture in a column called, “Ask Gabby Gayle.” I told my friend our paper in Grand Junction has the same column but it is called “Ask the Old Bag.” Are you the same person, or are you sisters like Ann Landers and Abigail Van Buren? No matter what your name is, I enjoy your column. So does my friend in Phoenix. Signed, Traveler Dear Traveler: I thought this might happen one day. When my column began years and years ago, it was called “Ask the Old Bag.” A few years ago, I began getting letters from Arizona readers that disliked the name of my column. Some felt I was setting women back 20 years with that title. We took a reader poll, and the ones who wanted it changed won by two votes. They suggested new names and I chose “Ask Gabby Gayle.”

However, my Colorado readers liked the “Old Bag” and chose to keep it. Here's the story behind the original name: When I began the column I was still working and had an office in a retirement community. One day, while waiting for the elevator, several women were sitting together visiting. I heard one of them ask, “Who is that woman?” “I don't know,” the other answered, “but she sure looks like an old bag.” I looked around and realized I was the only other person there. I entered the elevator a bit ruffled. I went to ground floor, into the restroom and looked in the mirror. I did look like an old bag! Then I smiled and didn't look like one anymore. I said to myself: “Old girl, you are going to have to smile more!”

I smile every time I see my column in the BEACON. Hope you do, too! OB Dear Old Bag: I am blessed by having many friends. One close friend tells me that I have too many, and that I should spend more time with the ones that are closest (I think she means her). I just love people. I tell her that she should make more friends so she doesn't feel that way. She did not take that comment well and barely speaks to me now. Should I try to make amends or let it go? Signed, A Friend

ASK THE OLD BAG

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Dear Friend: It sounds pretty petty to me. We do not own our friends.

We care about them, enjoy them and help them out when we can, but it is not ownership. If it were me, I would be friendly to her, but I would not lose any sleep if she does not reciprocate! You are truly blessed to have many friends. OB Dear Old Bag: I am a widower of two years. I am lonely. Not because I don't have friends—because I have great friends. I have the guys I bowl with, I have the guys I golf with, and the guys I play cards with. However, I miss the companionship of a good woman. Someone to have a nice dinner with me, laugh at my jokes, scold me when I am out of line, someone to share a nice sunset, etc. I haven't the faintest idea how to go about finding her. Signed, Lonely Dear Lonely: You are a member of the “Good Old Boys Club.” Expand your horizons. Join a dating site, go to functions where you will meet women: church, the gym, the senior center, jazz clubs, friendship ads, singles events, etc. You may kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your princess, but it will happen! Good luck. OB ■

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11

HEALTHY GEEZER

What does “environmental health” mean?

H

ealth is determined by much more than your genetics.

Often, different factors in your surroundings can contribute to or pose risks to your wellbeing.

Environmental health is a catchall term that encompasses how your environment impacts your health. It includes how you are affected by social issues such as water pollution, and personal habits such as smoking.

Here are some useful facts about environmental health you need to know: CANCER: Contrary to popular belief, cancer-causing chemicals in the environment cause fewer than 5 percent of cancer deaths in the U.S. Most cancers are caused by family history and lifestyle choices such as smoking.

LEAD: Even small amounts of lead in your system (paint chips,

dust, fumes and lead-contaminated water) can impede learning and generate behavior changes. Large quantities of lead can be fatal. A simple blood test can alert you before lead poisoning causes significant problems.

MERCURY: Mercury is a poisonous metal that can get into your body from eating contaminated fish. Years ago, mercury was used to shape hats. Factory workers breathed fumes from the mercury, which can damage the brain, liver and kidneys. This phenomenon may be the reason for the saying, “mad as a hatter.”

THE SUN: Deaths caused by melanoma—a lethal form of skin

cancer—are increasing by four percent a year. You can shield yourself from the sun’s dangerous rays by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

FLUORIDE: Almost half of all Americans drink water that is either naturally fluoridated or treated with fluorides. This has lowered the incidence of cavities as much as 65 percent. Use fluoride toothpaste.

CARBON MONOXIDE: A fire alarm is not enough to protect you in your home. You need a carbon monoxide (CO) detector, which you can get at your local hardware store. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of combustion that is pro-

duced by a home heating source.

If a chimney from your furnace is blocked, carbon monoxide can collect in your home and kill you in your sleep.

RADON: Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that could be in your home. A naturally occurring gas that seeps out of rocks and soil, it is created by uranium buried in the earth and is itself radioactive.

Radon poses a risk of lung cancer.

Get your house tested.

POISON CONTROL: Call Poison Control 800-222-1222 if someone may have been poisoned or if you have questions about poisons. ■

HEALTHY GEEZER, BY FRED CICETTI Send your general health questions to the Healthy Geezer in care of the BEACON, or email him directly at fred@healthygeezer.com

Matt Ozanic Colorado State Patrol Captain Ultramarathon runner

My trusted

orthopedic provider.

Rocky Mountain Orthopedics Request an appointment at sclhealth.org/RMO 12 | HEALTH & WELLNESS | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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DEAR PHARMACIST

Do or do not MRI dye?

Y ou may have heard the term “gadolinium” pop up in medical news this past summer. Gadolinium is a silvery-white heavy metal that is injected into the body to help radiologists running an MRI see inside you, kind of acting like a flashlight in your body.

MRIs that require gadolinium can be ordered for migraines, coronary artery disease, stroke evaluation, brain tumors, infections, cysts/tumors and more. Thousands of shots of gadolinium dye are administered to people each day.

Side effects from using gadolinium may occur. If they do, they are generally very mild—like a headache, dizziness, pain at the injection site, prickling or burning sensation on the skin and sometimes nausea.

These issues settle down within 24 hours as your body eliminates the drug from your kidneys. It helps if you take an analgesic and some detoxification supplements like glutathione, catalase and R-lipoic acid.

Gadolinium has been in the news recently because the popular dye appears to be retained in the brain, raising safety concerns especially for people who have multiple MRIs per year. More specifically, a study published in the medical journal "Neurology" this past July tracked patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) for five years starting at their initial diagnosis. After five years of multiple MRIs, the researchers found that a byproduct of gadolinium called “gadodiamide” accumulated in patients’ brains.

About nine percent of MS patients who received five doses or less saw accumulation in their dentate nucleus, which is involved in voluntary motor function and

cognition. What is the clinical impact of this? No one is certain yet.

The study is causing controversy in the MS community for good reason. MRIs are needed and useful, but the contrast dye might be harmful if used over and over.

Should people suffering with MS get MRIs, and if so, is there another contrast dye to use? Is the dye necessary at all? Are multiple MRIs necessary?

There’s the question, too, of whether these findings are limited to patients suffering from MS. Is the disease progression causing the brain to hold more gadolinium, or is it “sticking” to everyone’s brain that gets injected with it? Because the study’s findings are so new, no one knows these answers yet. The study didn’t determine any clear correlation between the deposition of the dye in the brain and the disability of the patients.

Radiologists nationwide must be beside themselves because the dye is essential to allowing them to provide more accurate results.

Since the relationship between gadolinium and disease severity remains unclear, ask your doctor whether or not the radiologist should use contrast dye in your next MRI. Sometimes radiologists can see certain areas of the body without it.

Additionally, if you have a history of kidney compromise, let the staff know at the imaging center. Every now and then, there’s an extremely dangerous kidney complication or life-threatening allergic reaction, but predicting who has a high risk for these problems is almost impossible. ■

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

Life is about the company you keep Hilltop’s senior living communities where neighbors soon become friends n Luxurious apartments with views, spacious floorplans, and paid utilities n Restaurant-style dining n Beautiful outdoor spaces and walking trails n Social activities and trips

n 24-hour emergency response system n Flexible care options to meet your current and future needs n Temporary assisted stays n Customized wellness program helps you “Stay Fit for Life!”

The Commons • 243-3333 The Fountains • 243-8800 625 27 1/2 Road • TheCommonsGJ.org

3203 N. 15th Street • TheFountainsGJ.org

DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN Send your questions to Suzy in care of the BEACON, or via her website, www.suzycohen.com

When you choose Hilltop Senior Living Communities, your money stays right here in our community, supporting a nonprofit that has provided Western Colorado with compassionate and comprehensive human services for over 65 years.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | HEALTH & WELLNESS |

13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PRESCRIPTION DRUG PRICING:

Drug prices got you down? Try Canada

By Arthur Vidro

L

ast year my breathing medicine skyrocketed in price. It didn’t skyrocket for everyone. It depends on your health insurance. If you’re in a generous plan, great. If not, then like me, you’ll sometimes feel financial pain.

I’m insured through the Affordable Care Act. Each year you choose a new plan. It’s up to the consumer to put in the time and legwork to figure out one’s needs and determine what each plan covers. Though figuring that out is tricky, I did my due diligence in late 2017 and carefully chose a plan that covered my anticipated needs for 2018. If during the year your needs change, you’re out of luck. My

needs didn’t change, but I was out of luck anyway.

For the first several months of the year I was paying $30 on my copay for a month’s supply of Qvar, an oral inhaler manufactured by Teva. There is no generic version available in the U.S. When June rolled around, I learned at the pharmacy that the manufacturer had stopped making the product and had replaced it with a purportedly different kind of Qvar—billed as new and improved, naturally. When I looked into it, I realized there was nothing new about the medication itself. The only newness lay in the inhalation mechanism. But that presented a chance for the manufacturer to call

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OPPOSING VIEWPOINTS it a new product and possibly to jack up the price.

My insurance plan covered the old Qvar that was no longer on the market, but it did not cover this “new and improved” version. So, starting in June, my monthly co-pay for Qvar rose to $247.

That was the price for people without insurance, and it was the price for people like me who had insurance but whose insurance did not cover the medicine.

But fear not. My insurance company told me if I could get written verification that I needed this drug from my prescribing doctor, then they would cover it.

So I jumped through hoops. I got the written information from my doctor, and the pharmacy was kind enough to relay the information electronically to Anthem. I quickly received a letter from Anthem saying, “We have approved coverage for your request.”

But that letter was misleading.

I did not have coverage. At best, I had fractional coverage.

Because when I ran over to the pharmacy, I learned that the insurance company would now happily pay $15.51 while requiring me to pay $231.49. That’s right. Even with so-called coverage obtained from jumping through hoops, I would now be responsible for 93.7 percent of the full payment. That was out of my budget, so I didn’t pay. I looked for alternatives.

Could the pharmacy somehow come up with the old, non-improved version of Qvar? No, it was off the market.

Could the manufacturer sell it to me direct? After all, there must be a surplus stock of it somewhere.

Nope, not allowed.

I wondered if perhaps I didn’t really need the medicine. So I went without it—and quickly developed ever-progressing bronchitis. During the summer of bronchial suffering,

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I thought deeper about alternatives. And then I remembered Mrs. Ashley, who lived around the block from us when I was growing up.

I recalled a cool summer evening in my younger days where my family was on the street having a talk with the Ashleys, who were out for a stroll. During that conversation, Mrs. Ashley explained about her need for a medicine that was extremely expensive, so much so that she was now buying it at a much more affordable price, via mail from Canada. Another alternative!

I visited my doctor, who prescribed a dose of steroids to remedy the bronchitis and a prescription for a different inhaler to tide me over until the purchase could be made from Canada. She tried to dissuade me from buying from Canada, and I understood her reasons, but I’m the patient, it’s my health, and I decided to overrule the doctor’s suggestion. I phoned Canada and set up an account.

My pharmacy helped greatly by forwarding to Canada my Qvar prescription that was languishing on file.

How much did I save by ordering from Canada? The Qvar costs me $30 a month. No insurance needed. That’s the same Qvar, manufactured by the same Teva, that’s fetching $247 in the U.S. It makes you wonder: If the drug is sold in other countries at $30, surely the manufacturer is earning a sufficient profit by selling it at that price. Which points out the ridiculousness of the American health care system when it comes to drug pricing.

Oh, and although there is no generic version of Qvar available to pharmacies in the U.S., the generic version is available through Canada.

The batch I got worked fine and cost even less than $30.

The illogic of drug pricing is enough to drive one batty. ■

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Thank you, Grand Junction, for giving me the honor of helping you hear better.

Canada cannot be America's pharmacy

By Peter J. Pitts

D

rug importation is no longer a pipe dream. Now it's a pipe bomb.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently floated a proposal dubbed the "Safe Importation Action Plan" to allow Americans to use Canada as their personal pharmacy.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated over and over that our government cannot vouch for the safety and efficacy of Canadian medicines. Pushing this policy through would needlessly threaten patient health and well-being. And, it's infeasible: Canada simply doesn't have enough drugs to share with the U.S. The action plan offers two paths forward for drug importation. First, states, wholesalers or pharmacists could submit plans for demonstration projects for HHS to review outlining how they would import Health-Canada approved drugs.

Second, manufacturers could import versions of existing FDAapproved drugs into the U.S. The plan sounds reasonable enough, but neither the Trump administration or any state that's been pondering drug importation has ever consulted the Canadian government. Had they done so, they'd see that our neighbors to the north have some serious concerns with the proposal.

Canadian officials have already stated that "Canada does not support actions that could adversely affect the supply of prescription drugs in Canada and potentially raise costs of prescription drugs for Canadians."

These concerns are justified.

Canada is just 1/10 the size of the U.S. with a mere 37 million

people. Given the sheer magnitude of the U.S. population—a whopping 329 million people—there's no way Canada could cover drugs for all Americans.

The strain on the Canadian medicine supply would likely lead to shortages and increased costs for Canadian patients. If Canada filled 10 percent of U.S. prescriptions, Canada's drug supply would run out in less than eight months, according to one study.

Even if Canada had an endless supply of treatments, drug importation is dangerous. Though the Trump administration's new plan states that the drugs would be verified before importation, the Canadian government has stated that it cannot guarantee a drug's effectiveness.

Counterfeit drugs are very common in foreign markets. One out of 10 medications is fake, according to a 2017 report by the World Health Organization. From April 2016 to March 2017 alone, Health Canada seized close to 5,500 packages of counterfeit drugs.

Some counterfeits have few, if any, active ingredients. Patients who purchase these medications may not realize they're taking ineffective drugs until their health condition fails to improve. Other counterfeit drugs are composed of potentially deadly substances, such as paint thinner, antifreeze, arsenic and uranium.

Access to high-quality medicines is a crucial issue, but drug importation is not the answer. The Trump administration's drug importation plan would create more problems than it would solve by jeopardizing Canada's drug supply and exposing Americans to deadly counterfeits. ■

Wishing you a healthy and happy holiday season Pamela Kreps, BC-HIS Owner, PHAC

759 HORIZON DR, STE E GRAND JUNCTION, CO www.pinnaclehearingaidcenter.com

Medicare Moment: Monthly tips and

tidbits about Medicare and Medicare fraud

An hour well spent: SHIP Can Save You Money During the 2020 Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) (October 15-December 7) is the most important season for Medicare beneficiaries. This is your opportunity to review your Medicare insurance coverage for 2020 for the potential to save hundreds or thousands of dollars in the coming year.

Drug plan reviews take about one hour, and 60-70% of the Medicare beneficiaries who come to SHIP for a review will save money in 2020.

Each plan has its benefits and drawbacks.

It is absolutely essential to verify that your doctors will accept whatever plan you choose and that all your medications are covered. A trained and certified SHIP counselor can help you compare your options.

Need help? Come to SHIP’s free OEP walk-in events November 13 and 18 December 3 and 6 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Mesa County RSVP, 422 White Ave. (lower level of US Bank)

Unable to attend? Leave a message for a SHIP counselor at 243-9839, ext. 1. It’s possible we can meet your needs over the phone or set up an appointment for you to see a SHIP counselor.

SHIP is a national program designed to provide Medicare beneficiaries with free, unbiased and personalized guidance on Medicare and Medicare-related issues. Visit www.

Medicare.gov or call 1-800-medicare (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

[For TTY users, call 1-877-486-2048.]

Brought to you by RSVP SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Assistance Project), Administration for Community Living and a grant from AARP.

422 White Ave., Suite 090 | 8am-4pm, Monday-Friday | www.rsvpgrandjunction.org

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | HEALTH & WELLNESS |

15

BOOMER BEAT

Join us for an Informational Seminar to learn more about your best home ownership option coming to Grand Junction for active adults!

Want community?

Make it happen

C

ommunity is hard to define, but it is more than just a group of people living in a particular area.

Community means building relationships that bridge gaps and barriers within a diverse group of people. Without community, we would live isolated lives void of a sense of belonging that we as human beings desire.

Community allows people to interact with each other, share experiences, work toward common goals and build trust, understanding and empathy. It establishes a healthy atmosphere filled with unity, harmony and friendship. Fortunately, you don't have to look far to find community-minded opportunities.

Coming Soon to There are 1,200 nonprofits in Grand Junction!

Mesa County that are highly dependent on volunteers. Volunteering is an easy way to serve the communiSecure, Convenient and The Village Cooperative of Grand ty while making a difference, espea GreatConvenient Value Secure, and is coming soon for active Junction Don't miss this opportunity! cially during holiday season.

Thewant Village Cooperative of the Grand to own their a Great Value adults (62+) who Some people even choose to maintenance, is repair coming soon for active Your best option in thehome area!with noJunction spend Thanksgiving with friends, bills or worries! There's never been a dubbed This (62+) who want to“Friendsgiving.” own their better time toadults make your best move! untraditional, all-inclusive take on home with no maintenance, repair Home ownership with financial benefits the holiday can blend together a bills or worries!

There's never been friends a starting as low as $150,000 community of neighbors, “We love the location!

Choose from many unique and We’re close to our friends, familybest aroundmove! food and fun. better time to make and your shopping, medical facilities spacious home plans!

Another common thread of and everything we want. It Annual appreciation on your investment was time to get out of our a healthy community is about house, forget about the Lock-in your best price now Home ownership with financial benefits taking action instead of having upkeep and start to enjoy a Reserve now before it’s too late! new maintenance-free life.” apathy.

Transparent updates and starting as low as $91,000 “We love- Mick the& location!

JoAnn Don’t miss out - See why so many Q&A classes presented by the city Village Cooperative Members Choose from andattorney, School We’re close to our friends, active adults have chosen the Villagemany unique manager, district Cooperative as their next home! shopping, medical facilities District 51 superintendent, as well spacious home plans! and everything we want. It as the executive directors of the INFORMATIONAL AnnualSEMINAR appreciation on your investment was time to get out of our Grand Junction Economic PartnerTuesday, November 12th at 1pm house, forget about the ship and the Mesa County Libraries, Lock-in your best price now upkeep and start to enjoy a DoubleTree Hotel can create greater understanding

Finally!

Hassle-free home ownership so you can just enjoy life.

Finally! Hassle-free home ownership so you can just enjoy life.

Coming Soon to Grand Junction!

743 Horizon Drive,Reserve Grand Junction,now CO 81506 before new maintenance-free life.”

about the community and lessens the distance between "them and us."

I recently attended a standing room-only City Council meeting discussing the development of property north of Grand Junction.

It was exciting to see people share their questions and concern about protecting the rural dignity of the community. Even better, the council listened to the residents and decided to reduce the proposed density for the development project. The strength of the community standing together was inspiring.

"We know they say it takes a village, and that has never been more important than now in our society," said District 51 Superintendent Diana Sirko.

Creating community also requires that extra effort to connect.

Grand Junction resident Rich Warren, 72, makes that effort as he visits with people he runs into while he's walking or riding his bike around town. Years ago, Warren made the conscientious decision to bike or walk every street of every community he has lived in—with the exception of his hometown of Los Angeles (he admits that was impractical).

"We moved to Grand Junction in 2005," he said. "I'm 99 percent of the way there, from the Utah border to the eastern edge of Palisade."

Warren doesn't hesitate to talk with anyone he meets. He is committed to connecting with the community and says those interactions are "part of the experience." ■

it’s too late!

CALL LISA TO RSVP: Don’t miss out - See why so many BOOMER BEAT Village Cooperative Members (970) active 628-3628 adults have chosen the WISEMAN Village

BY MELANIE Cooperative as their next home!

Send your questions to Melanie in care of - Mick & JoAnn

SEE WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

Find us on Facebook

16

VillageCooperative.com

the BEACON, or email her directly at melaniewisewoman@gmail.com

INFORMATIONAL SEMINAR | BOOMER BEAT | NOVEMBER 2019 | WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM Wednesday, Sept. 18th – 1pm OF GRAND JUNCTION

Coming Soon to Grand Junction

(970) 822-8002 2648 Patterson Rd. Unit B Grand Junction • www.pibcoa.com

LAUGHING MATTERS

LAUGHING MATTERS TURKEY DINNER Submitted by Kyle Smith A lady was picking through the frozen turkeys at the grocery store, unable to find one big enough to feed her family.

She asked a stock boy, “Do these turkeys get any bigger?”

The stock boy replied, “No, ma'am, they're dead.”

FOOTBALL GAME Submitted by Annie Mattel A guy took his girlfriend to her first football game. They had great seats right behind their team's bench.

After the game, he asked her how she liked the experience.

“Oh, I really liked it,” she replied, “especially the tight pants and all the big muscles, but I just couldn't understand why they were killing each other over 25 cents.”

Dumbfounded, he asked her, “What do you mean?”

“Well, they flipped a coin, one team got it and then for the rest of the game, all they kept screaming was: ‘Get the quarterback! Get the quarterback!’ It's only 25 cents!”

A KLUTZ’S FIRST DAY OF HUNTING SEASON Submitted by Roy Bean 2 a.m. Alarm clock rings. I hit the snooze button.

3 a.m. Hunting partners arrive and drag me out of bed. We throw everything in pickup.

3:30 a.m. Leave for the deep woods, and beautiful backcountry and mountains.

5 a.m. Furiously drive back home alone to pick up my gun and license. Drive like mad to get back before daylight.

6:30 a.m. Set up my camp.

7 a.m. Head into the deep woods.

Spot eight elk moving toward me.

Now within range.

7:37 a.m. Take careful aim at lead bull, hold breath and gently squeeze trigger. Click!

7:38 a.m. Frantically load gun while watching trophy bull and seven elk go over the hill.

9 a.m. Head back to camp for coffee break.

10 a.m. Still looking for camp. Realize I don’t know where camp is.

11:58 a.m. Fire three shots, the signal for help. Notice wild berries.

Eat wild berries.

12:05 p.m. Fire three more shots.

Run out of shells. Eight elk come back.

12:45 p.m. Strange feeling in stomach. Realize I must have eaten poisonous berries.

1:35 p.m. Rescued! They rush me

to nearest hospital to get stomach pumped.

3:30 p.m. Arrive back in camp.

Leave camp to go after elk again.

3:50 p.m. Return back to camp for shells. Load gun. Leave camp again.

4:30 p.m. Empty gun on squirrel that is bugging me. Miss every shot.

5 p.m. Arrive back in camp. See eight elk grazing right near camp.

5:01 p.m. Load gun. Fire gun. One dead pickup.

5:35 p.m. Hunting partners arrive back in camp, both dragging elk.

5:36 p.m. Repress desire to shoot hunting partners. Stumble and fall into campfire.

6 p.m. Change clothes. Throw burned ones into campfire.

6:05 p.m. Take pickup, leave hunting partners and elk in camp. Pickup boils over because of the hole in the radiator.

6:16 p.m. Start walking. Stumble

True community is so much more— it’s what adds color and meaning to our lives.

Is this your loved one’s idea of

When needing assisted living or memory support care, our connected and purpose-filled culture makes all the difference.

COMMUNITY?

COME SEE THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF CALL FOR A TOUR 970.549.0671

628 26½ Road | Grand Junction, CO 81506 CappellaGrandJunction.com

18 | LAUGHING MATTERS | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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LAUGHING MATTERS and fall and drop gun in mud.

6:25 p.m. Meet bear! Take aim. Fire gun. Blow up barrel plugged with mud.

6:26 p.m. Run fast, run very fast!

Climb nearest tree, bear climbs… bear climbs higher…and returns to the ground.

6:29 p.m. Bear circles the bottom of the tree.

7:30 p.m. Holler loudly for hunting partners.

9:38 p.m. Bear leaves.

9:46 p.m. Cautiously climb down tree.

HER FIRST WEDDING Submitted by Cherie Isley Attending a wedding for the first time, a little girl whispered to her mother, “Why is the bride dressed in white?”

The mother replied, “Because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.”

The child thought about this for a moment then said, “So why is the groom wearing black?”

SMALL BROWN BOTTLE Submitted by Diana Oden The other day I went to my nearby pharmacy. When I got there, I went straight to the back of the store to where the pharmacist’s counter is located. I took out my little brown bottle along with a teaspoon and laid them both on the counter.

The pharmacist came over, smiled and asked if he could help me.

“Yes,” I said. “Could you please taste this for me?”

Being that I’m a senior citizen, I guess the pharmacist decided it was safe to go along with me. He picked up the spoon and put a tiny bit of the liquid on his tongue and swilled it around. Then with a stomach-churning look on his face, he spit it out on the floor and began coughing.

When he finally finished, I looked him right in the eye and asked, “Now does that taste sweet to you?”

The pharmacist, shaking his head back and forth, said, “Hell no.”

So I said, “Oh, thank God! That’s a real relief. My doctor told me to get a pharmacist to test my urine for sugar!”

BASEBALL IN THE YARD Submitted by Chris Cruise A little boy walks over to his neighbor’s house and knocks on the door. A woman answers the door and the little boy tells her that he accidentally threw his baseball into her backyard.

The woman and the boy looked in her backyard but found no ball.

The woman looked over at her shed and saw a broken window sporting a baseball-sized hole. Leaving the boy in the yard, she went in the shed, picked up the ball and went back over to the boy.

“Now how do you suppose this ball got in here?” she asked the child.

Taking one look at the ball, one look at the window and one look at the woman, the boy exclaimed, “Wow, lady! I must have thrown it right through that hole!” ■

Hahaha

s U e k a M

! h g u a L

Send your JOKES to

Beacon@pendantpublishing.com or

We provide superior hearing care suited to your needs and a comprehensive array of services related to evaluation, rehabilitation and prevention of hearing impairment.

Brandy Lujan, BC-HIS Hearing Aid Specialist Dr. Bernadette Mills, Au.D., CCC/A Doctor of Audiology

19715-1

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P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | LAUGHING MATTERS |

19

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

If you’re a taxpayer 70 ½ years young, make a difference with your IRA Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).

Weave your way through tradition

Work closely with your financial advisor or tax representative to see if donating directly to HopeWest can be a tax advantage for you.

HopeWestCO.org (970) 257-2365

HopeWest is a nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization, EIN: 84-1207388

Chris Tuthill holds a basket she made most recently in a class taught by Woven Designs' Julie Klainrath. Tutill said it was the most challenging piece she's made so far.

Paid Volunteer Positions $100-400/month Want To Enrich Your Life?

Get Involved.

St. Mary’s Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs are looking for active adult volunteers ages 55+ to volunteer in the Grand Valley.

All volunteers may receive mileage reimbursement. If you are on a fixed income, you may qualify to receive a non-taxable hourly stipend as well!

Must pass background check and meet qualification requirements. No experience necessary.

Foster Grandparents

Classroom volunteers are needed in Mesa & Delta counties. Tutor students in area classrooms under the supervision of a teacher.

Reading skills are a must; grade levels vary based on your interest.

Call 298-9091

Senior Companions

Volunteers are needed throughout Mesa County to help homebound seniors remain independent by providing local transportation and friendship.

Call 298-9092

20 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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Story and photos by Susan Elenz hris Tuthill’s passion for baskets actually started with dollhouses.

When Tuthill, now 70, was a little girl, she dreamed of owning a dollhouse. She improvised by using small toys and bookshelves in her

C

room and playing with her cousin Susan’s dollhouse. Tragically, her cousin’s dollhouse was discarded during a divorce. Together, they searched for years to try and replace it. Even though Tuthill never ended up getting a real dollhouse, her search led her to a new passion nearly 50 years ago: miniature baskets.

A FASCINATION WITH BASKETS Tuthill’s interest in baskets began in the late ’70s when she was traveling with her cousin who frequented import stores for miniature art and baskets.

After hearing stories of Native American women who mastered the ancient craft and the intricate handwork required to weave a basket, Tuthill felt the need to honor these native women and their

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Seven years without a cold?

Tuthill collects unique baskets from all over the world. Pictured from left: a miniature basket from Alaska and a miniature basket with feathers attached. work, and began collecting baskets herself.

“In ancient times, they used whatever natural products they had around them to make baskets— things such as grass, twigs, reeds, horsehair, willow branches, pine needles, shaved wood, etc. And the smaller the basket, the more difficult the weaving is,” she said. “It was like a treasure hunt from then on to find good deals.”

In Native American culture, baskets were made to be mats or containers for grain, babies, firewood, eggs and more. Baskets of shells greet you as you approach Tutlhill’s front door, serving as a sign of what’s inside.

Through the years, her appreciation of the anthropological history of basket weaving has grown, as has her collection of baskets big and small. She has baskets in every nook and cranny of her home— some the size of a thimble or smaller. She has baskets from New Mexico and Arizona, as well as Florida, Alaska and Tennessee. Some are from as far away as Bali and Africa.

“I like living in a dollhouse art gallery,” Tuthill said.

CONTINUING THE TRADITION Recently, Tuthill has been learning to basket weave and owns baskets that she has made herself. She takes classes taught by Julie Kleinrath at Woven Designs, 2829 North

Ave. in Grand Junction.

Tuthill said Kleinrath simplifies the weaving process to make it doable for beginners. She loves teaching people who are new to the craft and experiments with new materials and designs.

“There is no machine that can make a basket. It’s all by hand,” Kleinrath said.

Basket weaving is a hobby that can be easily learned and mastered with practice. Plus, baskets add charm to your home and make great gifts.

For those interested in keeping the ancient craft of basket weaving alive, call Kleinrath at 683-8500 or visit www.wovendesigns.com ■

DID YOU KNOW? n The

oldest examples of Native American basket weaving has been found in the American Southwest, including one that is estimated to be 8,000 years old!

n

Each basket created by Native Americans was designed for a particular purpose, such as food preparation, storage, and carrying large loads.

n There

are four different types of basket weaving: coiling, plaiting, twining and wicker weaving.

More and more people are saying they just don’t get colds anymore.

They are using a new device made of pure copper, which scientists say kills cold and flu viruses.

Doug Cornell invented the device in 2012. “I New research: Copper stops colds if used early. haven’t had a single cold since preventively.

Frequent flier then,” he says.

Karen Gauci used to get colds People were skeptical but EPA after crowded flights. Though and university studies demonstrate skeptical, she tried it several times repeatedly that viruses and a day on travel days for 2 months. bacteria die almost instantly when “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” touched by copper.

Businesswoman Rosaleen says That’s why ancient Greeks and when people are sick around her Egyptians used copper to purify she uses CopperZap morning and water and heal wounds. They night. “It saved me last holidays,” didn’t know about viruses and she said. “The kids had colds bacteria, but now we do. going around, but not me.”

Some users say it also Scientists say the high conductance of copper disrupts helps with sinuses. Attorney the electrical balance in a microbe Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus headache. She tried CopperZap. cell and destroys it in seconds.

So some hospitals tried copper “I am shocked!” she said. “My touch surfaces like faucets and head cleared, no more headache, doorknobs. This cut the spread of no more congestion.”

Some users say copper stops MRSA and other illnesses by over nighttime stuffiness if used just half, and saved lives.

Colds start after cold viruses before bed. One man said, “Best get in your nose, so the vast body sleep I’ve had in years.”

Copper can also stop flu if of research gave Cornell an idea.

When he next felt a cold about used early and for several days. to start, he fashioned a smooth Lab technicians placed 25 million copper probe and rubbed it gently live flu viruses on a CopperZap. No viruses were found alive soon in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. after.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the “The cold never got going.” It teams confirming the discovery. worked again every time.

He asked relatives and friends He placed millions of disease to try it. They said it worked for germs on copper. “They started them so he patented CopperZap™ to die literally as soon as they touched the surface,” he said. and put it on the market.

The handle is curved and finely Now tens of thousands of people have tried it. Nearly 100% textured to improve contact. It of feedback said the copper stops kills germs on fingers and hands colds if used within 3 hours after to protect you and your family.

Copper even kills deadly the first sign. Even up to 2 days, if they still get the cold it is milder germs that have become resistant to antibiotics. than usual and they feel better.

The EPA says copper still Users wrote things like, “It stopped my cold right away,” and works even when tarnished.

CopperZap is made in America “Is it supposed to work that fast?”

Pat McAllister, age 70, received of pure copper. 90-day full money one for Christmas and called it back guarantee. It is $69.95.

Get $10 off each CopperZap “one of the best presents ever.

This little jewel really works.” with code COBS6. www.CopperZap.com or call Now thousands of users have toll-free 1-888-411-6114. simply stopped getting colds.

Buy once, use forever.

People often use CopperZap (paid advertisement)

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

21

HOME & GARDEN

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our years ago, the Environmental Protection Agency estimated that “more food reached landfills and combustion facilities than any other single material in our everyday trash.” In fact, 22 percent of everything thrown away is food. At the same time, 42 million Americans live in food-insecure households and don’t have reliable access to enough food.

Put another way, a 2018 study found that American consumers wasted nearly a pound of food per person per day. That’s enough to feed 2 billion people every year.

All that food took 30 million acres of cropland to grow—which means 7 percent of cropland in the U.S. was devoted to growing food that was put into a truck, transported, handled, bought, sold...and buried.

These statistics are so bad, the U.S. Department of Agriculture made a goal in 2015 to reduce food waste by 50 percent over the next 15 years.

Why am I starting my garden column with depressing facts? Because the more connected we are to our food system—the whole system—the better neighbors, global citizens, community members and gardeners we can be.

The best part is that there are steps we as gardeners can take to reduce our food waste.

THE MIND OF A GARDENER As gardeners, we have a unique relationship with food. Growing food for ourselves, for family and friends connects us to food and highlights the interconnectedness of food to so many other aspects of life and society.

Gardening, as opposed to farming, keeps this relationship between food and ourselves unadulterated by the pressure of having our

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livelihoods depend upon it. We can closely watch the miracles of life that are infused in growing food.

And yet, if we drown our tomatoes, or the chickens dig up all the garlic, we’ll be okay.

This unique relationship gives us the power to take into our own hands the kinds of issues that face us globally and to act upon those values in our lifestyle choices.

TRY COMPOST In warmer months, a great alternative to the trash bin is to compost food scraps outdoors. Maintaining an outdoor compost means the mess and smells won’t bother us and we can mix in grass clippings and weeds. In cooler seasons, though, composting becomes more

HOME & GARDEN CONCRETE REPAIR, RESTORATION & STABILIZATION

…Walls cracking?

- Patio sinking?

- Floors buckling?

- Foundation tilting?

- Basement leaking?

- Concrete ugly?

In vermiculture, worms transform kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich material capable of supplying necessary nutrients to sustain plant growth.

SEPARATING OUT FRUIT AND VEGETABLE SCRAPS FOR A NEIGHBOR WITH CHICKENS IS A GREAT WAY TO MINIMIZE WHAT GOES INTO THE TRASH. difficult, and throwing out food scraps becomes tempting.

But consider this: Waste does not exist in nature.

In nature, materials transform, and don't go to waste. Plants and animals die and decay which facilitates new life.

Even when we don’t buy more food than we can eat, we will still have squash skins and apple cores to dispose of. If maintaining a huge compost pile through the winter is not an option for you, there are other choices.

CHICKENS, WORMS AND CITY OFFICIALS Separating out fruit and vegetable scraps for a neighbor with chickens is a great way to minimize what goes into the trash. Another option

is building a worm bin, also known as a vermicomposting system.

Allowing worms to transform your kitchen scraps into vermicompost (a mixture of worm castings, organic material and bedding in varying stages of decomposition, plus earthworms and other living organisms) can greatly reduce your contribution to landfills. While traditional composting systems can be difficult to manage on a small scale, worm composting is low-maintenance and tidy enough to take place in your kitchen.

Learn more about vermicomposting in the wonderfully concise and straightforward book, "Worms Eat My Garbage" by Mary Appelhof.

Finally, we can turn to collective action. Contact a city official to ask about possibilities for composting and to encourage citywide food scraps diversion.

If we reach out to one another and consider the ways we might narrow the gap between our values and actions, we can ignite considerable change. ■

- Walks & Drives shifting?

…as you know…band-aid repairs just won’t last!

Call Mays, the region’s most experienced experts for all your concrete and foundation needs. All-weather, any season construction schedules available.

(970) 245-0834

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BY PAIGE SLAUGHTER Send your questions to Paige in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at paige@fruitionstudio.com WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | HOME & GARDEN |

23

TRAVEL

Around the world

by rail

SUPERB SCENERY

There's no need to leave the United States to enjoy some inviting scenic rides. The California Zephyr between Chicago and San Francisco climbs both the Rocky and Sierra Nevada Mountains. The Adirondack train is named for the mountain range it passes, and also rolls through New York's Hudson Valley wine country, where grapes have been grown and wine produced since 1677. Information about these and other U.S. train trips is available at www.amtrak.com.

Given the beauty of the soaring Alps mountains in Switzerland, it's no surprise that there's a choice of trains that introduce passengers to their splendor. The Bernina Express crosses the Alps between northern and southern Europe and offers dramatic views of towering mountains, castles and, eventually, the sun-soaked villages of southern Italy. Book this trip at www.rhb.ch/en/ panoramic-trains/bernina-express.

Another shorter but equally dramatic ride through the Swiss Alps is provided by the Glacier Express.

The eight-hour, 180-mile-long trip connects two famous mountain resorts and climbs to a height of 6,670 feet above sea level. Views change with the time of year, from rolling meadows in summer to a tapestry of color during the fall, to the snow-blanketed winter landscape. More information is available at www.glacierexpress.ch.

The setting is equally dramatic in Canada's towering Rocky Mountains. Rocky Mountaineer trains climb towering peaks and pass des-

24 | TRAVEL | NOVEMBER 2019 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

By Victor Block

F

or most people, taking a train is one way of traveling from one place to another. For others, the trip itself is the main attraction.

They're interested in the ride, passing scenery and activities available to passengers. Luckily, there are several outstanding rail trips to choose from around the country and the world.

AMTRAK ATTRACTIONS

ON AFRICAN TRAINS, PASSENGERS CAN VIEW ANIMALS IN THEIR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT. ert-like canyon terrain. Oversized windows provide unobstructed views of the scenery. Visit www. rockymountaineer.com to learn more.

FROM GOLF DRIVES TO GAME DRIVES Travelers who enjoy activities along with their train ride have a wide range of options on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. As the train rolls through Scotland’s breathtaking countryside, passengers may disembark to play golf, explore beauti-

Top: Views on the Glacier Express change with the time of year, from rolling meadows in summer to a snow-blanketed winter landscape.

Below: Great Little Trains of Wales

TRAVEL ful rural homes and enjoy tours and tastings at Scotch whiskey distilleries. For more information, visit www.belmond.com/royal-scotsman -train.

On African trains, passengers can view animals in their natural environment. Trips aboard the Desert Express in Namibia offer game drives, cheetah and leopard viewing at a safari guest farm and even lion feeding.

Another excursion explores sand dunes up to 1,000 feet high in the vast Namib Desert, which stretches more than 1,200 miles along Africa's Atlantic coast. Learn more at www.namibweb.com/desert express.html.

OLD AND NEW Wales’ Ffestiniog Railway is the oldest operating railroad company in the world. It was founded in 1832, and in 1863 became the first narrow gauge train service to introduce steam engines—two of which still are in use.

This group of miniature, narrow gauge steam-driven trains chugs through Wales at slow speeds so passengers may enjoy the beauty of the passing landscape. The Ffestiniog route traverses the Aberglaslyn Pass—a deep, narrow gorge which has been called the most beautiful spot in the United Kingdom—and huffs and puffs up some of the longest and steepest inclines in the country. Visit www. greatlittletrainsofwales.co.uk for more information.

The newest addition to the list of great rail trips is the first luxury sleeper train in South America. The Belmond Andean Explorer travels along one of the highest rail routes in the world through the Peruvian Andes at altitudes reaching nearly 16,000 feet. Passengers visit remote villages and view the 10,725-foot deep Cotahuasi Canyon. This trip can be booked at www.belmond. com/belmond-andean-explorer.

SHORT AND LONG Even a train ride of only 11 miles can offer something special. Since 1902, the narrow gauge Vale of Rheidol train in Wales has been transporting passengers through some of the finest scenery in Britain. As the cars make a series of twists and turns, views outside change from open fields to ancient woodlands to rugged mountains.

For more information, go to www. rheidolrailway.co.uk.

In contrast, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest single-service train ride in the world. It covers 5,770 miles and passes through eight time zones as it connects Russia's east and west. Depending upon which itinerary they select, passengers may stop at cities along the route including the capital of Mongolia, have a private viewing of the Kremlin and take a class in cooking traditional Russian dishes. One of the many companies people can arrange Trans-Siberian trips through is Golden Eagle Luxury Trains at www.luxurytrainclub.com/russia. ■

The Power of the Library transforms lives.

The Mesa County Libraries Foundation helps our local public libraries enrich lives and build community through opportunities to learn, discover, create, and connect. Your �inancial support of the Foundation helps provide programs, events, and facilities enjoyed by people of all ages.

For more information about the Mesa County Libraries Foundation, contact Development Director Karen Kllanxhja at 970-683-2438 or kkllanxhja@mcpld.org visit mesacountylibraries.org

FOUNDATIO FOUNDATI

Amtrak's Adirondack rolls through New York's Hudson Valley.

DONATE ONLINE – Make a secure donation at mesacountylibraries.org Lorem ipsum

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | TRAVEL |

25

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

BEACON readers know BEST Tell us who stands above the rest with the 2020 BEACON Best awards

W

estern Colorado’s senior population is growing, causing local businesses to step up their game in appealing to these loyal customers and getting them to fall in love with their products and services.

Are Your Joints Feeling Stiff and Painful??

Do you have grinding in your joints?

Is it more difficult to bend and move?

Do you have numbness, tingling or change in sensation in your feet and hands?

These may be early signs of joint disease and neuropathy. Compass Medical Center offers the most cutting edge technology and natural treatment options for neuropathy as an alternative to joint replacement.

Unfortunately, customer service isn’t always what it used to be with some businesses treating it as if it’s old fashioned or out of style. Here at the BEACON, we do our best to assure our readers, especially those new to the area, that honesty and courtesy are alive and well. In fact, they’re often what motivate many businesses to excel and become even better.

It’s time for you to spread the word and recognize those organizations that have earned your trust and business with the 2020 BEACON Best awards.

This coveted award acknowledges an elite group of your most loved locales that are selected for their people, products and services that make your life easier and more enjoyable. This year’s competition allows you to vote in more than 30 categories. By voting, you’re entered to win prizes and gift cards to some of your favorite spots.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS READERS Who can vote?

You can! Just pick up the BEACON and fill out the ballot inside the November and December issues. Mail it back to us or vote online at www.

BeaconSeniorNews.com.

Let us help you express your full health potential!

2478 Patterson Rd Suite 17 Grand Junction

985-4506

www.compassmedicalco.com

26 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

All right, I voted. What next?

Make sure to let your favorite places know you’re rooting for them, then pick up February’s BEACON to read about the winners.

MESA COUNTY

BEST L OCAL

LOVED

2020

IT'S TIME TO SPREAD THE WORD AND RECOGNIZE THOSE WHO HAVE EARNED YOUR TRUST AND YOUR BUSINESS When do I find out if I’ve won?

Make sure to include your phone number and email on the ballot so we can contact you. Winners will be notified in January.

BUSINESSES

What does it mean to be named BEACON Best?

BEACON Best distinguishes the extraordinary from the ordinary in terms of people, customer service and quality products and services as chosen by Western Slope boomers and seniors.

What’s in it for me?

A plaque, exposure to our readers and social media followers (and your clients), and bragging rights attesting to the fact that Western Slope seniors agree that you are the best at what you do!

When will the winners be announced?

Winners will be announced in a special section in February’s BEACON, but we’ll contact you for a photo with your award prior to publication. ■

OFFICIAL BALLOT

MESA COUNTY

Photocopies will not be accepted

BEST

Best Hair Salon______________________________________ Best Real Estate Agent_______________________________ Best Art Gallery_____________________________________ Best Fruit Stand _____________________________________ Best Local Festival___________________________________

L OCAL

Best Local Band/Musician_____________________________

LOVED

2020

Best Pharmacy______________________________________ Best Hardware Store_________________________________ Best Clothing Store__________________________________ Best Place to Buy Gifts________________________________

Share the LOVE!

Best Second Hand Store______________________________ Best Optical Store___________________________________ Best Pet Supply/Services______________________________ Best Insurance Agent________________________________ Best Auto Dealership_________________________________ Best Auto Repair____________________________________ Best Garden Nursery_________________________________

Help the BEACON determine the best and most-loved hotspots for boomers and seniors in Mesa County. Nominate your favorite locales in the following categories and return this ballot to the BEACON by December 31 to be entered to win giftcards to some your favorite places.

The winners will be announced in a special section in the February BEACON.

Vote online: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Best Heating and Cooling Service______________________ Best Landscaping/Lawn Care Service____________________

Mail your ballot to: The BEACON, PO Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

Best Restaurant for Breakfast__________________________ Best Restaurant for Lunch_____________________________ Best Restaurant for Dinner____________________________ Best Place for Dessert________________________________ Best Place for Coffee_________________________________ Best Winery________________________________________ Best Local Beer______________________________________ Best Liquor Store____________________________________ Best Date Night Location_____________________________ Best Place to Take the Grandkids_______________________ Best Place to Volunteer_______________________________ Best Place to Golf____________________________________

CONTEST RULES: • • • •

One entry per person. One vote per category.

Entries must be clearly printed.

Entries must include voter’s name, address and phone number.

Entries become property of the BEACON, which reserves the right to publish nominations in an upcoming issue.

• Entries must be received by December 31. Winners will be published in the February BEACON.

Name:______________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________ City:______________________ State:______ Zip:___________

Best Health Club____________________________________

Phone:______________________________________________

Best Outdoor Gear__________________________________

Email:_______________________________________________

VETER

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Know your veteran benefits

RESOU

How to avoid getting scammed as a senior veteran

VETERANS DAY EVENTS NOVEMBER 9

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

A

s a veteran, you likely joined the military to serve your country, but the lifelong benefits that come with service are definitely an advantage. While the existence of these benefits isn’t a military secret, they change throughout your lifetime as your needs change as well. This means that as a veteran you can arrive at seniorhood without a clear picture of what is available. As a result, you may not receive all the benefits you could, or you may be vulnerable to scammers who prey on military families.

THE BENEFITS Some benefits, such as commissary privileges, disappear when you stop active duty but reappear upon retirement or disability. With age or disability come other services, such as Aid and Attendance, which may cover some costs for caregivers, nursing homes, and even long-term care. One benefit that improved recently is hearing aid coverage.

Military benefits can also cover

ONE BENEFIT THAT IMPROVED RECENTLY IS HEARING AID COVERAGE. 28 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

illnesses or injuries related to your military service. You can apply for grants for service-caused mobility problems. Even veterans who become ill after service-related exposure to contaminants can apply for medical and disability coverage.

Surviving spouses and dependents may even be eligible for tax-free payments of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation.

Disabled vets may qualify for life insurance and help with burial costs, including a free headstone or marker and burial flag. The Veteran Affairs (VA) just created a program that allows veterans to apply for burial benefits in advance, so veterans and their families can plan ahead. The first step, according to advocacy group www.veteran-aid. org, is to complete an Intent to File form covering the specific benefit you seek. Since it may take months for a claim to be approved, this allows any benefits to be paid retroactively.

The best thing vets can do is to assume they may be eligible for these resources and apply. Spouses and dependents may qualify, too.

WATCH FOR SCAMMERS The military community is loyal to one another, which can lead to unwarranted trust when you believe

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

All Services Ball The All Services Ball honors military, law enforcement and first responders at 6 p.m. in Colorado Mesa University’s Meyer Ballroom (second floor of the University Center). This year’s guest speaker will be Kirstie Ennis, U.S. Marine Corps Helicopter Door Gunner Amputee, 7 Summits Climber, and Paralympic Snowboarder.

After more than 40 surgeries and the amputation of her leg, Ennis has turned the concept of “disabled athlete” on its head, proving how capable she still is. Admission is $50.

VIP tickets are $75. Call Colorado Mesa University’s Student Veterans Association at 248-1739 or visit www. coloradomesa.edu/veterans to buy tickets.

Veterans Day parade Honor all veterans at the Veterans Day Parade at 2 p.m. on Main Street in Grand Junction, starting at Eighth Street and Rood Avenue. To join the parade, assemble at the Lowell School parking lot at 12:30 p.m. Entry is free. If you’d like to participate in the parade and march in honor of our veterans, text 208-5620 or email kkbpete@aol.com.

NOVEMBER 11

Fruita Veterans Day celebration Observe Veterans Day from 11 a.m. to noon at Fruita’s Vietnam War Memorial Park. To learn more, call Joanne Iglesias at 263-8986 or joanne.iglesias@state.co.us.

VETERANS OR

American Legion, Post 2006, Fruit

American Legion, Post 50, Palisad

Base Camp 40, Warriors in the Wil Commemorative Air Force, Rocky

CHAMPS, Veterans Golden Age Ga

Disabled American Veterans..........

Fleet Reserve Association, Colorad

Grand Valley Combined Honor Gua

Military Officers Association of Am

Operation Interdependence...........

The Vet Center...............................

VA Benefits....................................

VA Caregiver Support.....................

VA Eligibility and Enrollment .........

VA Medical Center.........................

VA Mental Health...........................

VA Women Veterans Program........

Veterans Memorial Cemetery........

Veteran Service Officer..................

Veterans Art Center, Operation Rev

Veterans Committee of the Wester

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 12

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 39

Western Region One Source..........

Western Slope Patriot Guard Rider

RANS

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

IF YOU DIDN’T SOLICIT THE CONTACT YOURSELF FROM OFFICIAL SOURCES, DO NOT BITE.

URCES

RGANIZATIONS

ta................................... 640-7971

de................................... 260-3209

ld.................................. 250-2858

Free entrance to National Parks In honor of Veterans Day, the National Park Service waives fees for the public to enter National Parks, including the Colorado National Monument.

..............................855-260-3274

Free entrance to Colorado StateParks Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers all military men and women free admission to Colorado’s State Parks on Veterans Day. To obtain free admission, veterans, active duty military personnel and their families must show a valid active ID, discharge papers, DD214, reserve or retired military ID card, or an ID card from a Veterans Administration, Veterans of Foreign Wars or the American Legion. The ID should be presented at the parking gate. All other passengers in the vehicle will be admitted for free.

..................................... 263-2813

NOVEMBER 11

Mountain Wing............. 256-0693

ames.............................. 245-6175

..................................... 263-2848

do West Branch, 244..... 434-0868

ard ................................ 243-0476

merica............................ 241-8714

..................................... 523-4217

..................................... 245-4156

..............................800-827-1000

..................................... 242-0731

..................................... 263-2824

.................... 242-0731, ext. 2192

..................................... 263-8986

..................................... 248-2733

vamp, Inc...................... 462-3126

rn Slope........................ 589-6238

247................................. 242-9940

981................................. 778-8242

..................................... 257-3760

rs.................................. 250-1174

Veterans Day Salute Holy Family Catholic School continues the noble tradition of honoring our community of veterans at the annual Veterans Day Salute at 2 p.m. in the Holy Family Catholic School gymnasium, 786 26 1/2 Road, Grand Junction. A special veteran will be honored at the ceremony. There will be a light reception in the multipurpose room following the event, which is free to the public; no tickets are required.

More information can be found at www.holyfamily-gj.org or call 2426168. ■

you are dealing with another vet.

Some of the more popular scams include “secret” VA benefits, benefits buyouts, and VA loan scams.

In benefit buyout scams, criminals posing as veterans contact you to offer cash in exchange for any future benefits you may be entitled to. They may claim you can get more benefits by investing with them. They may even offer you a contact phone number or website that's similar to an official one.

Perhaps they offer medical services they claim are covered by the VA. But if they are reaching out to you without you first contacting them, it’s likely they’re not legitimate.

Benefit schemes aren’t the only scams. Anyone “phishing” for your personal records is up to no good.

They may try to charge you for your records or ask you personal information that will allow them to access your records and benefits.

Again, if you didn’t solicit the contact yourself from official sources, do not bite.

It’s difficult because they can be convincing. Scammers seem like exceedingly nice people and may offer you great deals on a car, a loan, or a place to live. They may even offer you a job, or encourage you to take college courses through the VA bill. Because there are many VA benefits, these may sound like something legitimate. But always double-check their information with official websites before giving out personal details.

How do you avoid falling prey to swindlers? Deal only with legitimate organizations.

Through their websites, you can find out—for no charge—which benefits you may qualify for and be guided in applying for them. If you’re not sure, take their name

and contact information down so that you can get back to them when you are not feeling pressured.

BE INFORMED The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and AARP recently created Operation Protect Veterans (OPV), a national campaign designed to support and educate veterans. OPV recommends learning about the popular scams so you don’t fall for them and quickly reporting it if you do fall victim to a scam.

Unfortunately, military families and veterans are twice as likely to become victims of scammers, according to a 2018 study by AARP. The best way to improve this statistic is to make veterans twice as likely to report scams.

Let’s put unscrupulous dealers out of business! Report suspicious phone calls, emails or mailings by calling 855-800-9023 or by sending a picture to protectveterans@aarp. org. ■

N O I T A OPERVeterans

t c e t o Pr

Tips for seniors

➊

Don’t give personal

information over the phone feel pressured ➋ Don’t to act immediately Consult a friend or ➌ your local VA office Get references and ➍ ask questions ➎ Do your research

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

29

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Thankful

for new life

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By Vic Stinemetze

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FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH *Valid in-store at the participating store(s) listed or by shopping online.

One discount per purchase. Offer not valid on previous purchases, gift cards, optics, or sale items. Offer valid thru 12/31/19.

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hanksgiving has always been a big deal for our family. I remember as a boy having my grandparents over for the holiday. Growing up in a Christian home, it was a reminder of all that we had to be thankful for, which, because my dad was a farmer, included the crops that were harvested. Thanksgiving signaled the end of the harvest season and the imminent approach of winter.

Today, our family still celebrates Thanksgiving in a big way. We no longer have the farm and my wife and I live in town, but it's still a special time of year. One of the things we are most grateful for is time with family.

Those in our family who live nearby come to our house for a Thanksgiving lunch, which has outgrown the dining room into the garage. (Our garage is heated, so that works out well.) We set up tables, which my wife and daughters decorate to make it feel festive. After lunch, we play games throughout the afternoon and then eat leftovers for supper. In addition to all the traditional Thanksgiving foods, my wife makes a pumpkin pie cake that my kids insist on having for every special occasion. It’s a joyful time.

But Thanksgiving is also a time for remembering and giving thanks for the sacrifice Jesus made for us that resulted in our receiving salvation. Sin entered the world as a result of the choices that Adam and Eve made, and has been passed

down through the generations to each of us. We see it all around us and in our own lives as well. But God, in His mercy and great love for us, provided a ransom for us.

Because none of us are without sin we cannot atone for ourselves, so God sent his own son, Jesus, to be that ransom. Through His sinless life, death, burial and resurrection, sin was defeated and we have the opportunity to receive complete forgiveness for our sins.

In effect, we get a do-over.

When we admit we have sinned and believe that Jesus died for our sins, the Bible says we are born again.

Not physically, but spiritually. Immediately! Then begins a process of our mind, will and emotions coming into line with what has already happened to us spiritually. That process is called sanctification, resulting in us becoming more like Jesus.

So, let me ask you: Have you surrendered your life to this God who loves you so much that He sent his Son to die for you? It’s as simple as saying, “Jesus, I want to be yours. I know I have done many things that are contrary to your laws, but I ask for your forgiveness and I ask you to come into my life.

I choose to believe you have the power and ability to forgive my sins and to give me eternal life. I put my trust in you.”

If you prayed that prayer and meant it from your heart, the Bible says you are now a born-again Christian. And that’s something to be grateful for! ■

TALKING DIGITAL

When to upgrade your technology

I

am a fairly religious person, but my most radical conviction is that I don’t believe in obsolete technology. And I certainly don’t subscribe to theories of planned obsolescence.

September and October are always full of new technology announcements. Apple and Microsoft each announced new generations of their top products, and the electronics department at every retailer is being stocked with the 2020 models of televisions, computers and gadgetry.

You have probably noticed friends and family members sporting new phones, upgrading their televisions, or transitioning to a new computer. Even worse, your kids may be telling you that it’s time for you to upgrade.

Before you join the Joneses or succumb to the tech taunting of your kids, use this guide to determine whether you really need to go through the hassle of adopting a new device into your life.

WHAT DOES OBSOLETE REALLY MEAN? Tech company marketers would have you believe that your existing device becomes obsolete whenever

the newest model is announced.

In reality, obsolescence is relative.

Each model of computer, cell phone, TV, etc. was designed to do what it needed to do in the era it was released. As long as the device is used for the functions it was designed for, it will continue working.

I know of a guy who still uses his 30-year-old amber-screened IBM 386 computer for his personal finances. He’s an extreme example of loyalty (or stubbornness), but he’s correct. A Ford Model T was designed to get a person from Point A to Point B at a top speed of 45 mph. As long as you don’t need to get anywhere faster than that, you really don’t need a vehicle manufactured later than 1908.

In other words, your computer, phone, TV, or gadgets aren’t technically obsolete until they are no longer useful. Obsolescence is subjective.

Before you upgrade to a new device, ask yourself these questions:

a new computer until the current one dies. However, if bad guys were to hack into every computer using Windows 10, you may choose to upgrade for security reasons.

Does my current device allow me to do everything I need to do?

If you only use your computer for surfing the Internet and it works, you probably won’t need

TALKING DIGITAL

Is my current device efficient?

Your device may be capable of doing everything you need it to do, but it may be too slow to be practical. I once had a smartphone that took 3-5 seconds to answer. People would often hang-up before the call connected. Technically the phone worked, but it wasn’t practical.

Are new improvements worth the cost?

If your current TV is 1080p but it’s 20 feet from your couch, chances are upgrading to a 4K TV isn’t worth the cost. However, upgrading to a 70-inch TV (HD or 4K) might be a great improvement. Do you do anything with your photos besides send them to friends and family or share them on social media? If not, you may not need that new 12-megapixel

phone with three lenses.

Are you upgrading for yourself or someone else?

I often get phone calls, emails, and texts that ask the question: “My son says I need a new (insert device here). What should I get?”

The vast majority of the time, my advice is to stop listening to their kids. The reason kids, grandkids, and spouses insist that you need to upgrade is because they can’t do the things they want to do on your computer. Chances are, that is a good thing.

Before you upgrade or purchase at the insistence of your kids (or others), make a deal with them. Say that you would be happy to modernize your technology...if they are willing to pay for it and act as 24/7 tech support thereafter. They’ll probably change their mind and recommend you make do with your outdated device that does everything you need it to do. ■

BY ADAM COCHRAN Send your technology questions to Adam in care of the BEACON, or email him directly at adamc@talkingdigital.org

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | TALKING DIGITAL |

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Veteran centenarians

Sharing history that never made the books

By Jan Weeks

O

ne hundred years ago, the Treaty of Versailles ended World War I, Prohibition ended, the White Sox threw the World Series and these centenarian veterans were already born. World War II vets are a dying breed, literally, yet the Grand Valley area is home to at least six who are 100 years old or better. The VA recently honored these five men and one woman recently, where they shared memories that never made the history books.

100 YEARS OF MEMORIES

Veteran centenarians were honored by the VA at a recent ceremony.

From left: George Tatum, Harold Nelson, Ann Reynolds, Dean Paul, William Floryancic and Dr. Harold Gard.

William Floryancic, 101, was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1942 and served as a quartermaster in New Guinea for three years, supplying troops in the Pacific Theater. He was about 23 when Uncle Sam sent him a letter that began with the

dreaded “Greetings.” Leaving his wife and children behind for years was heartbreaking.

In the tropical climate of New Guinea, the heat sucked energy and the insects made life miserable. But

Floryancic and his men functioned as a team, doing their best to keep combat troops supplied with the essentials.

“I hated the war, but I felt I was meant to be there,” Floryancic said.

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airports and roads while “we were facts and dates to be memorized arguing with the Japanese.” for history exams.

“We did our job to protect the “I’ve been talking for 15 years guys. I’m glad I did it, and glad I at Colorado Mesa University to tell don’t have to do it again,” he said. students what we did in World War He, too, left a wife and a son II. I want them to know how it was,” who was only a few months old he said. behind. Jim Tatum, now 77, was 5 His discussions brought history years old when his father returned to life for students almost 90 years Find out how Bank of Colorado Investment Services from the Pacific the day before younger than he, and everyone who can help with your financial plan.

• Retirement Planning Christmas. Could there have been has heard him speak has thanked • Investment Strategies a better present than having your him for his service and for filling in • Estate Planning dad return home safely? the gaps between history textbooks Meet Kent Shettler. He’s here to help you reach your Dr. Harold Gard, 102, enlisted and real life. financial independence and will be happy to speak in 1942 so he could choose which with you in person.

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His Investment Services Meet Kent Shettler. He’s here to help you reach your financial the army in 1943 and served as outfit was geared up physically and Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, an independent broker/ ndependence and will be happy to speak with you in person. dealer, and are: NOT Deposits. NOT Insured by FDIC or any other government agency. NOT GUARANTEED by a corporal, instructing physical mentally to assault Japan when the the bank Subject to risk and may lose value. Raymond James is not affiliated with the financial institution or the investment center. Bank of Colorado and Bank of Colorado Investment Services are not registered broker/ education classes for both men and Enola Gay bomber effectively enddealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. ed the war in the Pacific. On return- women in the early mornings.

“I always loved people in uniing to the States, Gard practiced medicine at Brook General Hospital form. My brothers were in the Army and the Navy, and I loved 18_BC51_BOCIS_BEACON_SENIOR_MAG_AD.indd 1 in San Antonio and then at Fitzsim4/25/18 hearing about their service. My mons in Denver.

“It was a privilege to take care of parents said I was just carrying on the tradition,” Reynolds said. patients,” Gard said.

She had her bags all packed to Harold Nelson, 104, served as a staff sergeant in Europe and Africa. go to the Pacific Theater when the order was canceled at the last He and his troops went all over minute. the map, literally, serving time in Maj. Elizabeth Edwards handed North Africa, and then in Italy. As out certificates and embroidered a platoon sergeant under General Patton, he and his men ran 20 miles caps to the six centenarians. She especially thanked Reynolds, saying one night, following Patton to their YOU HAVE OPTIONS Open Enrollment next embarkation. As Nelson’s crew that women like her made it possith th October 15 - December 7 Medicare Supplements ble for Edwards to achieve her goal straggled up the gangplank, Patton Part D Prescription of serving her country in the Armed barked, “Damn it, soldier, let me We’ll help you through the Drug Plans Forces. hear you give some orders! These entire process.

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Long Term Care Please call or email: Nelson chuckled. “I couldn’t very also thanked the vets, saying, “This Home Care event is to say thank you. It’s all well say that they were pooped Lindsey Kelly about you and your families.” He because they ran all the way while Life 970.424.0493 ended by saying, “My only purpose he rode in his Jeep!”

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FINANCE

Watch out for these new scams

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

I Retirement living with the emphasis on living

regret there will never be a shortage of scams. This morning’s news featured a real estate scam that robbed a single mother of the money she had saved for her first house.

After wiring her down payment money to a crook claiming to be the seller’s bank, she lost it all. She has resorted to living in her parents’ basement with her young children for the foreseeable future.

The consequence of all your personal data being available online is that you have to be vigilant. If an email looks suspect in any way, find the party’s phone and email by an independent internet search and contact them yourself.

PROTECT YOUR DATA

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Enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with paid utilities, weekly housekeeping, snow removal, lawn maintenance, and flexible meal options at our Commons or Fountains dining rooms. Plus you and your loved ones get peace of mind with a 24-hour emergency response system.

Money isn’t the only thing fraudsters are after. Data—your personal information—is extremely valuable. One fraud making the rounds recently is a genetic testing scam. If you fall for this through a telemarketing call, health fair, or knock on the door, your first bad news will be discovering that the “free” genetic test you took is not free. Medicare does not pay for any testing that is not medically necessary. You’ll be responsible for the cost, which could amount to thousands of dollars.

TAKING STEPS TO BLOCK ROBOCALLS WILL REDUCE THE CHANCES YOU’LL BE SUCKERED INTO A SCAM. However, the scammer's ultimate goal is more devious: your Medicare number. With that, they can steal your identity, causing you more headaches, time and money, as well as cheating the federal government.

If you receive a genetic testing kit in the mail, return it unopened unless your doctor ordered it. If you suspect Medicare fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE. Medicare wants to shut these down as quickly as they pop up, to protect you and all of our tax dollars.

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office, for example, has a new free service called Informed Delivery.

They can send you a daily email containing digital scans of the mail and packages you can expect in the next day or two. Then you’ll know if you’re missing something.

Protecting your Medicare and Social Security numbers, as well as other personal information, is not as simple. Trusted doctors and your own financial creditors and debtors should be the only ones who have access. Even then, this should be strictly limited. Don’t be afraid to politely refuse when people request your private information in any other context.

Taking steps to block robocalls will reduce the chances you’ll be suckered into a scam.

You can sign up for the federal Do Not Call Registry (888-3821222) by calling from the phone number you want registered. Or you can contact your phone service providers; many have programs aimed at reducing telemarketing calls. You can also find private robocall blocking services to help with your mobile phone. Before you choose a third-party service, however, be sure you check their reviews on the internet (not on their website) to make sure they are legit.

ASK FOR HELP You may not feel like your financial institutions always have your back, but they have a vested interest in

protecting your privacy. A visit to your bank branch or website will show you just how many protections and tips are available for your use.

One such worthwhile bank service is an alert (by email, text or automated phone call) whenever your debit or credit card has been used. You can set different trigger amounts for various credit cards if you don’t want to be notified for small dollar purchases.

Two-step authentication is another good way to keep robbers one more step removed from your accounts. It will take you a few seconds longer to access your accounts but adds an extra layer of security.

Finally, consider signing up for a password manager. This type of software creates complex passwords for each of your needs and stores them securely. You only need to remember one password, which then supplies the appropriate password for each site. This type of third-party password service generally is low cost and includes fraud alerts and other security features.

The recent book “Scam Me If You Can” by Frank Abagnale offers even more advice. You may consider some of his suggestions a pain and a bother. But so are brushing your teeth and many other tasks you complete more or less without complaint daily. Simple strategies can help us outsmart scam artists, reduce stress and help us keep our information and money safe. ■

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35

BUSINESS PROFILE

Colorado Veterans Community Center: the Western Slope’s best-kept secret

By Melinda Mawdsley

B

arbara Grossman calls the Colorado Veterans Community Living Center in Rifle the “best-kept secret on the Western Slope.”

As the center's licensed nursing home administrator, Grossman has worked tirelessly with her staff in the last four years to make it so.

“Who wants to go to a nursing home?” Grossman asked. “It’s the last stop, but we do it the best.”

Colorado Veterans Community Living Center, which is managed and operated by the state of Colorado, strives to provide loving care and compassion to aging veterans.

The center has a greater number of registered nurses per resident than the average, and consistently receives higher satisfaction ratings from family members.

In addition to Grossman’s welltrained staff, who are committed to helping veterans, veterans' spouses and Gold Star parents—parents who’ve lost a child in the line of duty—the center’s location atop a hill in Rifle gives it an outdoor serenity and ambiance appealing to residents as well.

Inside the center’s walls, resi-

dents find a 24/7 skilled-nursing facility with 89 beds and semi-private rooms. Roommates share a bathroom but a wall creates some personal space.

Like many skilled nursing facilities, the center specializes in long-term care, short-term respite or rehabilitation stays and hospice care. Additionally, there is an 18-bed secured dementia/memory care unit.

What makes the Rifle center unique, however, are the residents.

“Regardless of cognition, the person’s [military] service connection is what they remember most,” Grossman said. “They may have forgotten who you are but they re-

member every service connection.

They can tell you stories and don’t miss a beat. When you leave military or law enforcement you leave those ties, and when they come to our facility that camaraderie comes back again.”

Nurses and staff make sure to give meaningful care and respect to all the veteran residents.

“In our facility, they talk about their stories over and over again.

We make it okay. That’s what makes my staff unique. They accommodate that need to listen to those stories,” Grossman said.

Of course, with that camaraderie also comes the same competitiveness associated with the various

military branches.

“It can get heated,” Grossman said with a straight face. “You do not interrupt Bingo or poker.”

On top of in-facility card games or board games, residents can enjoy scheduled outings, scenic drives, outdoor flower gardens and exercise space.

The center accepts Medicaid, Medicare and private pay. Veterans deemed 70 to 100 percent service-connected disabled can have fees paid in full by Veterans Administration benefits.

To learn more about the center, call 970-625-0842 or visit 851 E. Fifth St. in Rifle. ■

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The healing power of a homemade pie

By Lynn Gendusa

G

rowing up, I recall my grandmother making pies to deliver to folks who were physically ailing or mentally going through a difficult time. She regularly baked my brother his favorite chocolate pie and would always make a blackberry cobbler for my mother when the berries were in season. I don't think I ever visited her when she didn't bake a pie out of love or compassion for someone.

I remember one summer day when her friend Mrs. Harris was ill.

First thing on a Saturday morning, we visited her bearing an apple pie full of concern and affection.

Before we left, Mrs. Harris was giggling with my grandmother and hugging me goodbye.

The tradition of pie giving was passed down from those ancestors who resided in the Southern hills,

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giving to hearts who needed a pie's restorative power. Aunts, mothers, grandmothers, a few uncles, and even some grandpas inherited the gift of producing a mouthful of joy. My granddaddy couldn't make a pie, but he sure could mend a mortal with his homemade peanut brittle.

My mom could roll out the best pie crust on the planet. Plus, she had the artistic talent to create the perfect lattice top over her delicious fruit pies. She would serve them warm with a dollop of ice cream. I once dubbed her the "Queen of Pies," and to this day, I believe she undoubtedly was.

Friends and family frequently remind me that I can go to the grocery store and get a great pie or cake and not have to go through the trouble of making one at home.

But it's not the same!

Cinnamon Apple Crumble Pie Recipe courtesy of Chrissy Martin

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1 Tbsp 1/3 cup 2 Tbsp 1 tsp 1/4 tsp 1

flour oatmeal brown sugar ground cinnamon salt cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch cubes

In a bowl, mix the flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt.

Using a pastry blender, add the butter until mixture is crumbly.

Cover and chill in refrigerator until ready to use.

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Rolled-out basic pie dough Large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch slices) fresh lemon juice sugar cornstarch ground cinnamon ground cloves pinch of salt

For the crust: Fold the dough round in half and transfer to a 9-inch pie pan. Unfold the round into the pan, without stretching, and pat firmly into the bottom and sides of the pan. Using kitchen scissors, trim the edge of the dough round, leaving 3/4-inch of overhang. Fold the overhang over itself and pinch it together to create a high edge on the pan's rim, or decorate the edge as you like.

RECIPES Generosity, compassion and joy are only found in the work you go through to create them. Not everyone knows how to bake a pie, but they sure know how to gather flowers, write a sweet note, or hold a hand. When we use extra energy to lift another’s spirit, whether it is through baking a pie or going for a visit, we deliver healing. When we go to the trouble to love, we give hate trouble.

Our world is a busy place, where texting emoji hearts or sad or smiling faces makes it simple to share our emotions. Whatever makes our lives easier is becoming the norm.

However, our days will become more comfortable only when our society becomes a less hateful place.

A peaceful world can exist only through loving each other enough to create a pie made of sincere compassion, prayer and understanding. Comforting others is not about what’s easy, but about sacrifice and empathy. There is no emoji in the technological world

that shows the recipe for genuine kindness.

"Before Prozac, there was pie," declared 9-year-old Alix, a character from Jan Eliot's comic strip, "Stone Soup."

I suffer from depression, and I understand needing medications for this illness. However, if my family and friends had been too busy to hug me, pray with me, or cook my kids' dinner through some of those wicked dark hours, would I have made it? When those compassionate souls took the time to physically aid me, they helped me see a sunny day was on the horizon.

"That's what's wrong with everyone! Not enough pie!" Alix's grandma happily tells her.

What if we brought a homemade pie of kindness to the table of hate and calmed anger with a dose of warmed goodness? Then our grandchildren would learn just like I did from my grandmother: when we take the time to create love, we might just witness healing our hurts, one pie at a time. ■

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For the filling: Place the apples in a large bowl, sprinkle with the lemon juice, and toss to coat evenly. In a small bowl, combine and stir the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples and toss. Transfer to the dough-lined pan and sprinkle the crumb topping evenly.

Refrigerate the pie until the dough is firm, 20-30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375°, and place pie on lower rack of oven.

Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is thick and bubbling, about 50-60 minutes. Let pie cool completly to set.

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39

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Seven choirs, one mission Choir director’s music ministry crosses borders

By Diana Barnett

F

irst Presbyterian Church's music ministry has evolved into seven accomplished musical groups under the direction of Dr. John Howard, who has created opportunities for people of all ages and musical backgrounds to participate.

Howard's mission is to make music exciting, pleasing and uplifting for all ages to counteract the lack of public music education and music experience in general today.

The choirs consist of community members who want to be part of a quality music experience, not just church congregants. Members range from high schoolers to seniors in their 90s.

IT’S CHOIR TIME Members are quick to share that Howard has been instrumental in creating an atmosphere that fosters personal development with the end product being musical excellence.

Julie Sabeff sings in the concert and worship choirs, participates in Ringers, the bell choir, and is currently taking voice lessons from Howard.

“John is quite the motivator, and makes you want to do your best,” Sabeff said.

One of the choir's newest members, Bill Averett, 81, joined last fall.

"Singing was something that was missing for me," he said. “[Howard] makes it entertaining. In fact,

40 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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practices should be videoed for the enthusiasm. He jokes, and he sometimes pantomimes, but he expects the best and is not satisfied until he gets it because he knows we are capable of it."

Chris McGee had never sang in a choir before she came to a First Presbyterian Christmas concert more than two years ago.

“I had never sung in a choir before, but I wanted to be in this one," she said. "John manages to get more out of us than we know we can do. We surprise ourselves.

I believe his focus is not only on us, but how the congregation will hear the music. Even though he is facing us when directing, he is always thinking about how we are coming across and how the music is moving others.”

A MUSICAL MINISTRY Howard considers his work a calling from God, and involves all choir participants in his ministry.

A music aficionado from an early age, Howard begged his mother to sit in the front row at church so he could watch the pianist play the hymns. He later went on to learn the piano, then organ in college.

Howard has earned three degrees in music, which eventually landed him in his current position as music director and organist at First Presbyterian. His emphasis is on sacred classical music, which he incorporates in all the groups.

“When you need to hear something inspiring, uplifting or healing, you can do that through hymns," Howard said. "You may not remember words from a sermon in 30

BEACON SENIOR NEWS years, but you’ll remember words from traditional hymns.”

INTERNATIONAL TOURING In 2017, the choir and bell choir traveled to Germany and performed during the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in various churches and cathedrals— one of which was the building where Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses.

“The highlight was singing in those big, beautiful cathedrals. The people who came to hear us were just in awe. Bell choirs are not common in Germany, and people would come up to touch the bells after our performances,” Sabeff recalled.

While church attendance has declined in Europe, choir tours have encouraged locals to return to their churches to hear the music. Howard’s hope is to change others’ lives with their music as well.

This year, the First Presbyterian singers traveled to Scotland, where John Knox started the early

Presbyterian Reformation, as well as England and Ireland to share their specially prepared program, "Psalms Across the Pond."

“It is fun to be part of something really good," said Howard. "Fellowship, family and talent. It’s a beautiful bouquet."

For information on joining the choirs, call 242-1923 or email john. howard@firstpresgj.org ■

Ring in the holidays with First Presbyterian Christmas Concert Concerts are standing room only. All vocal groups will perform at the church, 3940 27 1/2 Road.

Saturday, December 14 5 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 15 9 a.m., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

King Leer: the architect behind Playboy magazine

By Randal C. Hill e has been described as vulgar, adolescent and exploitative.

But, like him or not, Hugh Hefner and his "Playboy" magazine were responsible for many a tectonic social shift in 1950s America.

Hefner was born in 1926, the older of two sons of straight-laced Methodists. As a boy, he wrote horror stories and drew cartoons but applied little of his 152 IQ to academic pursuits. After spending two years in the Army, Hefner earned a psychology degree at the University of Illinois, where he created a campus humor magazine called "Shaft."

Chaste until age 22, he married high-school classmate Millie Williams and began what he later labeled “a deadening slog into 1950s adulthood.” He went to work for "Esquire" and "Children’s Activities." In the meantime, he was busy

H

planning his own magazine, a man’s “lifestyle” periodical to be called "Stag Party."

However, a Stag publication already existed, so after considering "Top Hat," "Gentleman" and "Bachelor," Hefner switched the name to Playboy. To get started, he borrowed $8,000 (about $60,000 in today’s money). Hefner also paid $500 for an unpublished 1949 nude calendar photo of Marilyn Monroe .

He assembled the first Playboy on his kitchen table. The debut issue—featuring a clothed Monroe on the cover (and unclothed inside)—hit newsstands in December 1953 with a run of 53,000 copies.

Unsure that there would ever be a second edition, Hefner had purposely left off a publication date on the cover. All copies—offered at 50 cents each—sold out quickly..

By 1957, Hefner was raking in $4 million annually.

Playboy became the ultimate guidebook for the unattached young male urban sophisticate. The magazine featured literate articles, in-depth interviews with people of importance, and a centerfold of a busty, unclothed young woman.

Hefner took unabashed delight in viewing his periodical as an emblem of the rapidly growing sexual revolution and an escape from long-standing American puritanism and social intolerance. Along the way, the now-divorced Hefner built a global empire that came to be worth $200 million.

Hefner never lost interest in beautiful young women. In 1989, he surrendered his bachelorhood once more and married Kimberley Conrad, the 1989 Playmate of the Year who was 38 years his junior.

The couple divorced in 2010. On New Year’s Eve 2012, Hefner, age 86, married again to 26-year-old

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Hugh Hefner in 1966. beauty Crystal Harris.

Hefner paid $75,000 for a mausoleum drawer adjacent to Marilyn Monroe’s in Los Angeles’ Westwood Memorial Park. In 2009, he told the LA Times, “Spending eternity next to Marilyn is an opportunity too sweet to pass up.”

The drawer was put to its intended use after Hefner died on September 27, 2017. He was 91. ■

Senior Recreation Center Calendar Activities for seniors age 50 and older. Annual membership is $20.

550 Ouray Avenue - 243-7408 Open Monday through Saturday from 8 am-4 pm.

FUN AFTER 50

Activities offered by GJ Parks and Recreation To register for these programs, call the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department at 254-3866 or visit www.gjparksandrec.org.

SPECIAL EVENTS DECEMBER 5

Holiday Light Tour for 50+ Get excited for the holiday season with a night of festivities! Meet at 5:15 p.m. for hot chocolate and goodies, and performances by Lana Leigh & Company and singalong carols. Bus leaves at 6 p.m. to take patrons to the city's best light displays. Cost is $7. Drop-off and pick-up is at Lincoln Park Barn.

Register now!

DECEMBER 6

Chocolate Walk Experience downtown Grand Junction's holiday charm during a walking tour of beautiful Main Street, featuring your choice of either an Art on the Corner tour or a history tour. The first 100 participants to register will receive a mug commemorating the event, filled with Enstrom's hot chocolate. Cost is $12.

DECEMBER 7

Candy Cane Hunt Kick off the holidays at the 19th

annual Candy Cane Hunt with crafts, cookies and cocoa, all for free! Doors open at 10 a.m. at the Lincoln Park Barn. The Mesa County Library will perform a holidaythemed puppet show. MJ Thomas Photography can capture a holiday family photo with Frosty the Snowman. Photo packages begin at $15.

The hunt begins at exactly 11 a.m.

HEALTH TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Gentle Active Yoga This class is designed for active beginners and above. Class is 8-9 a.m. at Lincoln Park Barn. Cost is $7 to drop in, or purchase a 10-punch pass for $50

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS

Tai Chi Learn to reduce stress and improve balance, brain health, proprioception and strength with flowing movements, intention and breathing mindfully. Class is from 8-9 a.m. at Lincoln Park Barn.

Cost is $50 for a 10-punch pass or $7 to drop in.

SPORT MID-NOVEMBER THROUGH EARLY MARCH Indoor Pickleball Play your favorite sport year-round!

Join us for indoor pickleball at the Lincoln Park Barn. Equipment is available to borrow at the Parks and Recreation office located south of the pool. Drop-in dates and times are subject to change based on space and availability. Check the current calendar posted at the barn. Drop in for $6 or purchase a 10-punch pass for $45.

CALL FOR NOMINEES ANNUAL CHAMPION OF THE ARTS

Locals are invited to nominate Grand Junction businesses and individuals to recognize their generosity, dedication, promotion and support of the arts. Award winners are selected by the Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture.

Nominations are due November 4.

To nominate visit www.gjarts.org. â&#x2013;

To make Gray Gourmet lunch reservations, call 243-9844.

Cost $3.50

MONDAY 9:00 am 9:30 am 10:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5:30 pm

Cribbage Cards Computer Classes Gray Gourmet Lunch Card Bingo & Dominoes Singles Pinochle

TUESDAY 9:00 am Cribbage & Pool 12:00 pm Gray Gourmet Lunch 1:30 pm Bingo

WEDNESDAY 9:00 am Ladies Pool & Cribbage 9:30 am Jack & Jill Pool Tourney 10:00 am Free Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd Wed) 12:00 pm Gray Gourmet Lunch 1:00 pm Pinochle & Canasta

THURSDAY 9:00 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 12:00 pm 7:30 pm

Cribbage & Dominoes Dance w/Music Membership Meeting Pokeno Dance

FRIDAY 9:00 am 12:00 pm 12:45 pm 1:00 pm

Painting & Pool Gray Gourmet Lunch Bridge Canasta

SATURDAY 9:00 am Bridge 1:00 pm Bingo

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Extractions, Dentures, Implants, Crowns and Bridges. Tooth Whitening and Invisalign.

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43

CALENDAR tion, a graduation party for scholarship students, and a 2019 recap with special guest from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Art Center, 1803 N. Seventh St. Grand Junction. RSVP preferred, 433-2897.For details, visit www.fceelsalvador.org.

November 1-2

Western Slope Cowboy Gathering

November 4-8

ARC Thrift Stores Job Fair Colorado's favorite thrift store is coming to the Western Slope. Onthe-spot interviews for production, pricers, cashiers, supervisors and donation attendants take place from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at 2830 North Ave. Call 303-908-1262.

Like cowboy poetry and western music? Grab your cowboy boots and head on over to the Grand Valley Event Center, 2400 Consistory Court in Grand Junction, for two days worth of performances by Floyd & Valerie Beard, Nona Kelley Carver, Peggy Malone, Terry Nash and more. For times, visit www.westernslopecowboygathering.com or call Museums of Western Colorado at 242-0971.

November 2

Foundation for Cultural Exchange celebrates 15th anniversary Come celebrate the Foundation for Cultural Exchange’s 15th anniversary with a Salvadoran Art Auc-

November 5

Blanket making with Kiwanis and Project Linus Join the Circle K Kiwanis Club in making blankets for traumatized or critically ill children. Meet at Colorado Mesa University's University Center from 5:30-7 p.m.

All members of the public are invited to participate. Call 216-1474 or 270-6162 for details.

November 6

VA Homebuyer Education Class Learn about VA loans while enjoying pizza at the Western Region One Source classroom in Grand Junction from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Topics include low down payment options, why rent, and the value of a VA loan. Reserve your spot by calling 257-3864 by noon on November 5.

November 7

Women of Distinction Breakfast Girl Scouts of Colorado will publicly honor this year’s three inductees—Jenn Moore, Executive Director of Eureka! McConnell Science Museum; Angelina Salazar, CEO of Western Health Care Alliance; and Diane Schwenke, President and CEO of Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce—from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center in Grand Junction. For information, call 628-8003.

November 7

National Day of Remembrance All former Department of Energy and uranium workers are invited to attend Nuclear Care Partner’s National Day of Remembrance celebration from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the National Guard Training Building, 2820 Riverside Pkwy. The celebration will feature a honorary pinning ceremony, catered lunch, raffle prizes and more! RSVP at 361-3405.

November 12

Village Cooperative home ownership seminar Village Cooperative of Grand Junction is coming soon for active adults age 62 and older who want to own their home with no maintenance, repair bills or worries.

Learn more in a free informational seminar at 1 p.m. at DoubleTree Hotel. Call 628-3628 to RSVP.

November 13 & 18

Medicare Open Enrollment Free Walk-In Events Senior Health Insurance Assistance Project (SHIP) Counselors will help you review your Medicare insurance coverage for 2020 for free from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Mesa County RSVP, 422 White Ave. (lower level of US Bank).

Unable to attend? Call 243-9839 to schedule an appointment.

November 14-15

Poinsettia Sale Friends of St. Mary’s Hospital will be taking orders and payment for poinsettias in St. Mary’s Hospital's main lobby from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. both days. These beautiful poinsettias are only $15 each and will be available for pick up on Friday, November 22 and additional plants may be available to purchase. Net proceeds benefit the St. Mary’s Fund and the Micah S. Montag Pediatric Fund.

November 16

Card Party benefit Daughters of the American Revolution is hosting a card party from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Moose Family Center in Grand Junction. There will be door prizes, finger foods and more. Cost is $10. Call 245-2645 for details.

November 17

Low-Cost Vaccine Clinic Roice-Hurst Humane Society's next low-cost vaccine clinic is

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November 23

Grand Junction Tree Lighting Downtown Grand Junction officially kicks off the holiday season with its tree-lighting ceremony from 5-7 p.m. on Main Street. Santa will make an appearance before returning to the North Pole.

Holiday Craft Fairs Get your holiday gift buying done early this year.

NOVEMBER 2 ■ Central High School's Holiday Craft Fair

Head to the gym and lobby for tons of handmade crafts, arts and food from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

NOVEMBER 2 ■ P.E.O. Craft Fair

Explore crafters and vendors from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Crossroads United Methodist Church and participate in a cookie walk with recipes for sale.

Breakfast and lunch available for purchase.

NOVEMBER 7-8 ■ Friends of St. Mary’s Hospital Collective

from 9 a.m. to noon at the shelter. Pets are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Vaccine costs are in addition to a mandatory $15 exam fee. Call 434-7337 or visit www.rhhumanesociety,org for pricing.

November 21

Cowboys and Natives of Grand Mesa Archaeologist and tribal liaison Sally Crum will show videos at the Mesa County Central Library of her interview with Plateau Valley cowboy Louis Kitson and Northern Ute elder Clifford Duncan about their experiences on the Grand Mesa. Come to the com-

munity room from noon to 1 p.m. to learn more.

November 24

Thanksgiving Dinner First Baptist Church, 720 Grand Ave. in. Grand Junction, sponsors Thanksgiving dinner from noon to 2 p.m. The menu includes traditional turkey, rolls, dessert and beverages. Tickets are $10 until November 17 and $5 for children under 5. Proceeds benefit a mission project to Rainbow Acres, a home for developmentally challenged adults in Camp Verde, Arizona. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 2425645. ■

Goods Book & Gift Fair Find books, electronics, home goods, kid’s gifts and more from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday in St. Mary's Hospital lobby.

Proceeds benefit the Micah S. Montag Pediatric Fund.

NOVEMBER 9 ■ Moose Lodge Holiday Bazaar

Find that special gift and try tasty treats from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Moose Family Center in Grand Junction. Breakfast and lunch items will be available.

NOVEMBER 9-10 ■ Mantey Heights Christmas Craft & Bake Sale

Come to Mantey Heights Rehabilitation & Care Centre, 2825 Patterson Road, Grand Junction, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days.

NOVEMBER 21-22 ■ La Villa Grande Care Center Christmas

Craft & Bake Sale Come to La Villa Grande Care Center, 2501 Little Bookcliff Dr., Grand Junction, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. both days.

NOVEMBER 23-24 ■ Art Center's Holiday Art & Craft Fair

See more events at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

The Art Center's holiday craft fair is where Santa does his shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts. Shop from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. both days. Learn more at www.gjartcenter.org.

Fruita Holiday Arts & Cra�s Fair

NEED GLASS REPAIR? No Job Too Small

Gifts of all kinds to give away & gift to yourself!

Come on down to the Fruita Community Center Saturday, December 14 10 am – 3 pm 324 N. Coulson, Fruita

New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Mirrors

NEED Table GLASS REPAIR? No Job Too Smal Tops • Insulated Glass Shower & Tub Enclosures New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Rescreens & New Screens Mirrors • Table Tops • Insulated Glass Same day service on most autoglass Shower & Tub Enclosures • Rescreens & New Screens

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Wood Crafts * Pottery * Custom Signs * Jewelry * Scarves * Candles * Soaps

Open 8 am - 5 pm, M-F & 8 am - Noon, Sat. • All Credit Cards Accepted

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM |

NOVEMBER 2019 | CALENDAR | 45

BEACON BITS

BEACON BITS Kitten Yoga Join cuddly felines at 5:30 p.m. on November 15 at Roice-Hurst Humane Society, 362 28 Road in Grand Junction, for Gentle Flow Yoga in their kitten room. Classes are open to the public for a $10 donation. Bring a clean yoga mat and wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Preregistration is required.

Call 434-7337 or email ashley@ rhhumanesociety.org

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Count on your Real Property Management team to: • Make your property ready to rent • Show your home to prospective residents and lease to responsible tenants • Collect the rent and get it to you quickly • Deal with tenant issues and enforce the lease • Conduct regular property evaluations • Perform routine maintenance • Handle evictions in compliance with all laws

Call 970.314.7123 or visit rpmnow.com

Best of all, you will have access to up-to-date information about your property through your personal online account.

AARP Driver Safety Courses Save money on car insurance and keep up with newer traffic laws.

After completing the Driver Safety Course, you may become eligible for a car insurance discount. Cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nomembers. Call for location and to register.

• November 7, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Call Jack at 639-2433 • November 20, 1-5 p.m.

Call Tom at 329-0237 Theatre Project Performances The Theatre Project of Grand Junction presents two beloved Disney musicals in the month of Novem-

Call 970.314.7123 or visit rpmnow.com

ber. Sing along to "Frozen Jr." on November 2, with performances at 2 and 7 p.m. at Fruita Middle School's auditorium. Admission is $5, with tickets available at www.

970tix.com or at the door. The next weekend, watch students perform in "Mary Poppins Jr." November 9 at The Art Center with performances at 2 and 7 p.m. Cost is $7 in advance at www.970tix.com or $10 at the door. For more information, call 589-5926.

Operation Christmas Child drop-off locations Starting November 18 multiple locations throughout Grand Junction will begin collecting shoebox gifts filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items for the Samaritan's Purse project. During the project's National Collection Week (November 18–25), Grand Junction volunteers hope to collect more than 10,500 gifts to contribute to Operation Christmas Child's 2019 goal of reaching 11 million children in need. Find more information at www.samaritanspurse.org/ operation-christmas-child. The

Call 970.314.7123 or visit rpmnow.com

Wreaths Across America seeks sponsorships for holiday season

focus on people

our residents

their lives

their families Sub-acute care ■ 24-hour skilled nursing ■ Rehabilitation Long-term care ■ Dementia care Hospice and Respite care ■ Secured Alzheimer’s unit

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Wreaths Across America is seeking donations in November for volunteers to post wreaths at 2,600 gravesites at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery and 1,420 gravesites at the Orchard Mesa VA portion. They are looking to raise approximately $40,000 needed for these wreaths. One wreath costs $15, and checks can be made payable to Wreaths Across America and mailed to Patriot Guard Riders, 616 Lodgepole St., Grand Junction, CO 81504. The last day to send donations is November 24. A wreath hanging ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. December 14 at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery. For more information, call 250-1174.

Donations are tax deductible.

BEACON BITS nearest drop off locations are: • Canyon View Vineyard Church, 736 24 1/2 Road, Grand Junction • Clifton Christian Church, 3241 F 1/4 Road, Clifton • Living Water Baptist Church, 1822 J 3/10 Road, Fruita

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES • Grand Junction Visitor Center is seeking volunteers to welcome visitors to the Grand Valley as a tourism ambassador. Flexible schedule, and a whole lot of fun!

Contact Kerry Graves at 2564054 or email kerryg@gjcity.org for details.

• MOPS Kids are looking for volunteers to watch children for several hours a month at Canyon View Vineyard Church during MOPS meetings. Volunteers are needed from 9-11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays each month during the school year, holiday weeks excluded. Call or text 549-6637.

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

• Mesa County Spellbinders is looking for volunteers to learn a few storytelling skills and make a difference in children’s lives. Tell stories to students in kindergarten through fifth grade once a month during the school year. To join, call 462-7346.

• Classroom Volunteer Foster Grandparents are needed in nonprofit school classrooms throughout Mesa and Delta counties. No experience necessary. Patience, kindness and ability to follow directions are a must. Applicants must be 55+; those able to volunteer nine hours per week or more and meet income requirements can receive $100-$400 per month in non-taxable stipend.

Background check required. Call 298-9091 to apply. ■

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | BEACON BITS |

47

BEACON BITS S E R V I N G

G R A N D

J U N C T I O N

&

M O N T R O S E

Sometimes we all need a little help caring for a loved one

Caregiver Connections meets from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest.

Call 241-2212.

Caregiver Support Group meets monthly from 1:30-3:30 p.m. the first Thursday at Cappella Grand Junction, 628 26 1/2 Road. Call 8227070 to RSVP.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Information.

Hilltop’s Senior Daybreak is a unique day program that keeps seniors with memory loss safe and secure while providing their caregivers the flexibility and support they need to care for their loved ones at home. We also offer valuable information and support groups specifically designed for those caring for someone affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Grand Junction (970) 241-7798 Montrose (970) 244-0860 www.seniordaybreak.org L O C A L L Y

SUPPORT GROUPS

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

Is your LARGE home tying you DOWN? NEED ASSISTANCE WITH AN AGING PARENT’S HOME? We salute our Veterans!

COPD Support Group meets monthly at 1 p.m. on the fourth Friday at 581 Grand Valley Drive in Grand Junction. Call 317-7556 or email jimcampbell3@aol.com.

Divorce Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Saturdays at 103 S. Fifth St. in Palisade. Call 200-1191.

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step meeting to help compulsive gamblers recover, is held from 7-8 p.m. at The Meeting Hall, 1938 N. First St. Grief Group for Pets meets monthly from 6-7 p.m. on the second Wednesday at Roice-Hurst Humane Society. Call 434-7337, ext.

103.

Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets monthly from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first Tuesday at Colorado West Otolaryngologists. Call 245-2400.

HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets monthly from 7-9 p.m. on the third Tuesday at First Congregational Church. Call 7789274 or 241-4349.

Job Searching After 50 Networking Group meets from 8:30-10

Carol Gerber SRES

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Look Good, Feel Better meets monthly from 3-5 p.m. on the last Wednesday. Beauty professionals provide tips to help women defy the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Call 800-2272345 to register.

MACHO Men cancer support group meets monthly at 2 p.m. on the first Thursday at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room. Call 298-2351.

Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one, and meets from 2-3:30 p.m. Thursdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest. Call 248- 8844.

MS and Men, a support group for men living with MS, meets monthly from 11 a.m. to noon on the third Thursday at The Artful Cup. Call 241-8975.

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday at First Presbyterian Church. If you have a child who struggles with alcohol, drugs or food, there’s help and hope. Call 379-5786.

Western Slope Visionaries, a low-vision support group, meets monthly from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Center for Independence. Transportation is available. Call 241-0315. ■

The economy is better at our boutique-style thrift store.

1059 North Ave #1 48 | BEACON BITS | NOVEMBER 2019 |

a.m. on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Mesa County Workforce Center. You must be registered as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com. Call 2487560 for details.

970-644-5400

R O M A N Reclining Sofa orig. $2189

1699

BEACON BITS S AV E

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at 12:45 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, and 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Grand Valley. Call 244-9989.

$

$

Lea Con

410

0

TROUPER

SAVe $

460

Matching Reclining Loveseat with console........$1139 orig. $1599 • SAVe $460

Reclining Sofa

1239

$

orig. $1699

Hidden Treasures Table Group trunk cocktail table...$759 trunk end table...$419

J A Y Reclining Sofa orig. $2199

$

1789

Leather Constru

S A V E $310

Great Sam RV Club, Two River Sams Chapter, meets at 11:30a.m. on November 9. Call 523-5625 for details.

limited timetheonly! throughout Store! hurry in for greAt SAVingS

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Guys’ Giving Club meets quar$1569 terly at the Springhill Suites, 236 Main St. in Grand Junction. Mem- S A V E 290 bers donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. Next meeting is November 5. For membership M A K E N N A d U O Sofa information, call 243-8829 or 270-Power Reclining $1689 6184.

S AV E orig. $1879

Cups Club meets at 2 p.m. Wednesdays at The Artful Cup. Meet people through cards and games or talk and tea. Call 683-4909.

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, meets November 16 from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. for a card and games benefit at the Moose Lodge #270. For details, call Dorothy 2452645.

Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) #244 meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday at the VFW #3981. All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. Call 434-0868.

$

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S AV E 400 So fA S ™

$

999

Visit www.mesacountygenealogy. org for location and details.

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month. For location, call 216-2919.

$

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A V E 490 S ASV E $400 865 North Avenue, Grand Junction (970) 243-0634 $

STORE hOURS Mon - Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 12-4pm • lazboy.com/grandjunction LOCALLY OwNEd ANd OPERATEd - OUR FAMILY SERVING YOURS SINCE 1951

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at 1:30 p.m. on November 9 $1699 L A U R E L e Friendship Force meets monthly at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran V SA Sofa S A V E 410 00 at 6:15 p.m. on the third Thursday $ 3Church for a $ traditional potluck 0 orig. 1269 M E Y E R Sofa orig. 1399 at First Baptist Church. Call 778turkey dinner. Please bring sides, TROUPER 460 JOIN US FOR 6191 or visit www.ffwcolo.com. salads, and fruit or dessert. After460 $1239 $1789 wards will be 2020 board and offiALL-YOU-CAN-EAT Grand Junction Chess Club meets S A V E 310 cers elections, a salute to veterans at 6:30 p.m. Mondays in the Safeand a silent auction.

Call 245-5649 way Starbucks, 2901 F Road. Visit $ or visit www.vestafjelllodge.org for www.jctchess.com. more details.

Grand Junction Gem & Mineral $1569 Club meets at 7 p.m. on the second Sweet Adelines International, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, Thursday and at 6:30 p.m. on the S A V E 290 COLL AGE CASEY JASPER M U R R AY rehearses from 6:30-9 p.m. MonRocking Rocking Rocking Rocking fourth Thursday of the month at reClinerS Recliner Recliner Recliner Recliner at Redlands United Methodist 2328 Monument Road. Email grand days SouThwest at its BesT $429 $ $ $ from only 0 479 499 529 Church, 527 Village Way. Call 255junctionrockclub@gmail.com. orig. 569 orig. 619 orig. 679 orig. 699 BENNET T dUO 9419 or 523-3464, or visit www.

310 421 Brach Drive | GJ Grand Valley Pets Alive meets 540 grandmesachorus.org. $1759 $1689 Close to downtown Grand Junction and 2pm thru 7pm monthly from 4:30-6 p.m. on the a convenient stop to and from the Powe r ANd/OR a i r fo r m UPGR AdES AVAIL ABLE ON SELECT RECLINING ST YLES Thunder Mountain Camera Club third Wednesday at Church of the Colorado National Monument and the Redlands.

S A V E $140 S A V E $180 S A V E $170 meets monthly from 7-9 p.m. on S A V E $140 OPEN DAILY Nativity. Call 462-7554. the fourth Tuesday at Western Col11am to 9 pm 970.628.4044 Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets orado Community College, Building $ S A V E 300 at 6 p.m. on the first and third B. Visit www.thundermountain lacabracantina.com www.lacabracantina.comwww.lacabracantina.com Wednesdays and 1 p.m. on the 865 North Avenue, Grand Junction (970) 243-0634 cameraclub.org.

STORE hOURS Mon - Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 12-4pm • lazboy.com/grandjunction second and fourth Wednesdays $ $ Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) LOCALLY OwNEd ANd OPERATEd - OUR FAMILY SERVING YOURS SINCE 1951 of the month at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or #3981 meets monthly at 5:30 p.m.

Please present coupon. on the first Wednesday for a family Offer expires 12/31/19 523-5965.

B R O O K S Reclining Sofa orig. 1399 Can not be combined with style dinner and meeting at the other promotions.

Grand Valley Woodturners meets Post Hall, 503 1/2 Florence Road in monthly at 7 p.m. on the second y oJunction. u r C h oCall i C e778-8242. ■ Grand Tuesday at Redlands United Methr e C l i n i n g S o fA S odist Church. Call 245-8817 or 856-3632. ea.

R O M A N Reclining Sofa

Sale ends 10/14/2019. See store for specific details and pricing.

Leather Match Construction

orig. $2189

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orig. $2199

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FRESH

NEW

MENU

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | BEACON BITS |

300 0

49

$

FUN & GAMES

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50 | FUN & GAMES | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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FUN & GAMES

THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US!

STOP IN TO MESA FEED MART FOR GREAT GIFTS FOR EVERYONE! Believe it or not, it’s time to start thinking about the holidays. And Mesa Feed Mart offers a variety of exciting gifts for your fur baby, friend or yourself. We are working with several local artisans and businesses to bring you a varied selection of new gift items in addition to old favorites.

NEW ITEMS • Baby flannel swaddle blankets and baby-themed soaps

• Handmade dog coats, pajamas, and egg and utility aprons for the poultry-savvy home farmer • CBD tincture and salves in human and pet-friendly formulations • Handmade soaps in human and pet-friendly scents • Lavender, verbena, vanilla and hemp lotions, refresher spray, therapy hand cream, and antihistamine, analgesic and muscle balms

• Hand-crafted wood and embroidery Mesa Feed Mart is so much more than just a feed store. Of course, we items still have all of our dog, cat, bird and OLD FAVORITES animal feeds for every type of animal.

• Leashes, collars, harnesses and toys Come visit us and let our friendly staff help you find the perfect gift. for dogs and cats

ACROSS

1. Look ___, I'm

Sandra Dee

5. Apply powder to oneself

9. Flying Pan 14. The Tower of Pisa

does this

for cartridges

15. Watched intently 16. Winged 17. Shoulder belt 19. Kyoto's country 20. Ring of color 21. Caribbean dance

music 23. "Evil Woman" band 24. Try hard 26. May honorees 28. Walled Spanish city 30. Rum cocktail 34. Therapists' org.

37. Eternal 39. First name in jeans 41. Opposite of paleo42. Cubic Rubik 43. Preeminent 48. Musical aptitude 49. Moon of Jupiter 50. End of ___ 52. Not of the cloth 54. Mariner 57. Frosty 60. Thick-soled shoe 62. Followed

64. Supermodel

Campbell 66. Small shell shaped cake 68. Bowling lane button 69. Lows 70. Short letter 71. Doorway 72. Many 73. Flat sound

DOWN

1. Jessica of

"Dark Angel"

2. Rips 3. "Olympia" painter 4. "Bewitched" witch 5. City in W central Israel

6. Yes 7. Bottom of the

barrel 8. PC storage medium 9. Nightclothes 10. Guido's high note 11. Record 12. List ender 13. City near Sparks 18. Antipasto morsel 22. Deep sleep 25. Nicholas Gage book 27. Word that can

succeed building,

web or burial

29. Where the

action is 31. Air-filled rubber

hoop, become fatigued 32. Ballerina Pavlova 33. Frankenstein's assistant 34. Mont Blanc,

par exemple 35. Andean country 36. Allege as fact 38. Bank offerings 40. Matinee ___ 44. Non-transparency 45. Letters, e.g.

46. Most tidy 47. Experiment 51. They're out of

this world 53. Punctuation mark 55. Miscellanies 56. Leases 57. Memo starter 58. Capital of

Calvados, in NW France 59. Baseball's

"Walking Man" Eddie 61. London jail 63. Barely passing grades 65. Sea, to Cousteau 67. Scooby-___

Mesa Feed Mart

242-7762 • 520 S. 9th St., Grand Junction www.mesafeedmart.com

SUDOKU

Turn to page 54 for your puzzle answers WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | FUN & GAMES |

51

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL OR A SERVICE TO OFFER? List it here—pricing starts at just $29 per month!

Call Stacey at 243-8829, ext.102, to reserve your space in next month’s issue.

FOR SALE

HOME SERVICES

Puppies Oops puppies for sale. Purebred, but not registered Australian shepherds. Red merles $250; black and whites $175. Text 901-9364 for more info.

The Cleaning Lady Let’s clean! Time to start thinking about holiday decorations and family get-togethers. Get oil on those cabinets and the dust off the fans!

I’d be happy to come talk to you.

References, bonded and licensed.

Weekly, biweekly, monthly or one time-only cleaning. Linda 263-7364 or 720-841-7505.

HELP WANTED Did you know “Bonnie”?

Looking for information about former GJ resident Craig Bonnifield Aupperly. “Bonnie” was a trader and firewood salesman, dying 1982.

Appreciate recollection for a story.

Call Joe 712-9886.

WE’RE HIRING!

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES FREELANCE WRITERS PHOTO JOURNALISTS The BEACON Senior News is growing and we’re looking for talented folks who want to grow with us!

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com No phone calls, please.

Window Cleaning We also do screen repair, hard blind cleaning and house cleaning! Free estimates. Ryan & Michele Allowitz, Blue Ribbon Cleaning Services.

361-0531. 35 years’ experience and insured.

Scene Clearly, LLC Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter!

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

Custom Draperies, Blinds and Solar Shades Floor coverings and design services.

Interior Monologues, Inc. 234-0040.

My Phone Friend, LLC Smartphone/Tablets assistance and lessons. 623-2121. www.myphonefriendllc.com

*Long hair extra *Includes shampoo, set & blow dry.

(Haircuts extra)

———————————————————————— CERAMIC & PORCELAIN DOLL MAKING CLASSES

778-8075

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution.

Free consultation. 216-0048.

Senior piano & singing lessons.

Call 644-5651.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SERVICES Pet Cemetery & Crematorium Where the Best Come to Rest! Final Paws, 2317 H Road, Grand Junction. Call Teri 242-7417.

Oil chAnge any make orSeRvice model any make orSeRvice model Oil chAnge any makegas or model 9595 engine 95 gas $49. engine synthetic oils slightly higher gas 95 synthetic oils slightly higher engine diesel synthetic95 oils slightly higher engine 95 diesel $99.95 engine No appointment necessary 95 diesel engine No appointment necessary

19.

19.

19.

54.

54.

54.

No appointment necessary

———————————————————————————

Regular Perms $45 Senior Citizen Perms $35

Computer Lady, LLC In-home repair. 15 years serving Mesa County. Windows, internet, Wi-fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified. 255-1216.

It’s It’s worth worth the the drive! drive!

It’s worth the drive!

Oil chAnge SeRvice

Pat's Hair Salon & Ceramics

Medical Marijuana Doctor Days in Montrose and Grand Junction Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting. Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visit www.healthychoicesunltd.com.

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

2728 Railroad Ave • 970-625-1680 • www.columbineford.com 2728 Railroad Ave • 970-625-1680 • www.columbineford.com 2728 Railroad Ave • 970-625-1680 • www.columbineford.com

52 | CLASSIFIEDS | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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Volum

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Month

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Volume: 31 | Issue: 11

ose &

NOVEMB ER 2018

TA SE-DEL

Montr

s Reader 16,250 ith over 50+ w Adults r Adults 50+ with over 32,500 Readers for fo Magazine Monthly e Mesa County’s azin

MESA COUNTY

2 018 MBER N OVe:E4 | Issue: 11

Mobile oxygen concentrator Looking for a mobile oxygen concentrator. 778-9429 leave message.

Give a Gift Subscription RO MONT

WANTED TO BUY

USED BOOKS Buy, Sell or Trade Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders. 242-3911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sunday. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

N OFY I A T P CA M RCeRA NS ON TE VEE nt ers u l o TH v n e a p MOVE! m hoE sel of afaring

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ents. liday ev local ho at these to find e sure t you’r Best eer tha ACON ots in and ch the BE best hotsp r fo w e Vote no determine th win big. miss . Don’t Help us r a chance to at these local holiday events e year thefomusic, lights and cheer that you’re sure to find e of th It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Don’t miss town erful tim t wond ck Vote now for the BEACON Best s thrust . e mos and ba e U.S. waMusic back and r war to us us took that wa It’s th to th Help us determine the best hotspots in nt with took us Pearl Harbor, music weWith attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. was thrust the at to win big. th chance a r for town t ou with us Music e attack on into worldwide conflict—but our music went ict—bu With th rldwide confl into wo sic, lights the mu

6

Stocking Stuffer Season

8

21

34

YES! I want to subscribe.

(All our prices include tax)

name address city

$6 Pre-rolls

$8 Seltzers

state

zip

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 Mesa County subscription  Montrose/Delta subscription $18 Chocolates

$20 RSO

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 1 year $20.00  2 years $30.00

...and give a gift subsciption to: name address city

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Mail form with check to: The BEACON, P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | CLASSIFIEDS |

53

KUDOS & KVETCH

kudos \ ku • dos  “Such a good job on the presentation of my Halloween and ‘Twilight Zone’ stories [in October’s BEACON]! No wonder you win NAMPA awards. Always proud to be in the BEACON.” - Randal Hill

 “I really like Jan's articles on the Community Concerts of the Grand Valley series. We bought tickets to those for the first time this year and they are great!”

- Diana B.

 “Thanks for sharing our work through this great article (“Protect-

ing the promised land” by Melanie Wiseman). We appreciate being featured.”

- Colorado West Land Trust

kvetch \ kfetch Can't find our paper in City Market? Head on over to Safeway!

City Market's corporation decided, starting this month, they will no longer allow free papers like the BEACON in their stores.

While we are disappointed in their decision, there are plenty of places to pick BEACONs up around town...like Safeway

 “Large corporations and businesses are becoming money hungry

more so than ever nowadays. They really don’t care much about their communities. Where can one actually buy groceries and pick up their BEACON at the same time? I am an old person; not a young sprinter.”

- Genevra S.

 “In the words of my generation: Up yours, City Market/Kroger!”

- Kevin R.

 Paraphrased from a reader:

“I’m very upset that City Market will no longer carry the BEACON. Many older people shop there and pick up their BEACON and now they will have to make another trip somewhere else. Why would City Market get rid of it? It makes no sense. I love Laughing Matters and sometimes make copies to send to friends and family around the country. I also love the stores! It's so informative.”

Answers from page 51

The price is wrong

By Dick Wolfsie

M

ary Ellen and I have been taking short walks around the neighborhood after dinner. It’s relaxing, romantic and good exercise…but I can’t afford it anymore.

You see, my wife is always looking for ways to fine-tune and improve our new house, hoping to spruce up the landscape — maybe by adding a blue spruce, just like the one she saw next door at the Fabershams’ house.

The other night, I jotted down every single detail that caught Mary Ellen’s eye, every item and home improvement on other people’s houses that she fancied as possibilities for our place. Then I did a quick online search for approximate costs. Your prices may vary.

“Oh, look!” she said as we walked out the door, “the Robinsons are screening in their porch.

We should do that so we can sit outside and not be bothered by mosquitoes.” ($4,200) As we circled the block she noticed that the Medcalfs had a fully enclosed glass sunroom. “That’s even better, Dick.

We could sit out there in the winter, have dinner and watch the snow falling.” ($6,700) A couple of blocks later…

“Look, Dick. Those folks have plantation shutters. That would really make the front of our house look so much more modern.” ($1,750) “Oh, and that window box is awesome. What an attractive addition that would be.” ($160) Rounding the cul-de-sac, my wife was inspired by a beautiful emerald-green lawn.

“Dick, do you know why the Rosens’ yard looks so good? They have an automatic sprinkler system.

I think that would be an excellent investment for us. Curb appeal is so important.” ($3,400) We were almost back to our house when she noticed that the Jamesons were putting in a rock garden with a fountain. “Now that is so serene,” said Mary Ellen. “I’ve always wanted a fountain.” ($1,200 plus high maintenance costs.) Then suddenly, the Jamesons’ landscape lighting went on. “That is such a great effect. We really need that,” said my wife. ($900) By the time we got home, I was feeling broke. We went out on the deck to enjoy a glass of wine, but Mary Ellen was still in the home improvement mode. She eyed our gas grill, which is about 20 years old.

“We are probably going to have to buy a new one next spring ($350) and we better have this deck stained pretty soon. ($1,100) She also noticed two large dead trees in the woods that probably need to be cut down. ($3,000) She was silent for a few minutes so I thought the spending spree was over. Yes, things were looking up. But then she looked up: “I’d love to have a ceiling fan out here on the back porch.” ($179 plus installation) We’re not going to buy most of those things. Truth is, my wife is very frugal. She simply enjoys dreaming about home improvements.

Next June is our 40th wedding anniversary and I suggested we go to Spain and Portugal in the spring, to celebrate. “How does that sound?” I asked her.

“I don’t know,” she responded.

“Can we afford it?”

“Yes! It’s cheaper than going for a walk.” ■

Dick Wolfsie shares his wit and humor on TV, radio and in newspapers. He has been a feature reporter and talk show host in Indianapolis for over 25 years. He has written 12 books, including “Indiana Curiosities” and “Mornings with Barney: The True Story of an Extraordinary Beagle.” Dick lives in Indianapolis and can usually be found in his basement trying to think of something funny to write about.

54 | KUDOS & KVETCH | NOVEMBER 2019 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

LA VILLA GRANDE CARE CENTER

Wejustare a 5 STAR Don’t live,now come THRIVE with us Quality Care Center

in a warm & welcoming Senior Community

It’s Official!

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5 Star rating based on the standards ■ Physical, for CENTERS FOR MEDICAID AND occupational & speech therapy ■ Respite care & short-term stays MEDICARE SERVICES ■ Memory care-Alzheimer’s/Dementia ■ Hospice ■ Amenities include: two large gated patios, newly remodeled family room, LifeStyle 360 Activities Program focusingactivities on your: room, two therapy rooms Intellectual, social, physical, emotional & spiritual well being ■ Secured memory unit ■ Secured courtyard 970-245-1211 ■ ■

■ Rehabilitation & wellness

We are now a 5 STAR Quality Care Center

2501 Little Bookcliff Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Come see us at our CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND BAKE SALE November 21 & 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

2501 Little Bookcliff Drive Grand Junction, CO 81501

CALL TODAY FOR A TOUR 970-245-1211

www.LaVillaGrandeCareCenter.com

Get your holiday gift buying done early this year!

Holiday Craft Bazaar

November 9 & 10 from 10 am-4 pm.

970-242-7356

2825 Patterson Road • Grand Junction WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

55