BEACON Senior News, Montrose-Delta counties, January 2018

JANUARY 2018

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MOUNTAIN MEN

Reliving history 100 years later Photo by Diana Barnett

2

THE 58TH SEASON OF

THE 58TH SEASON OF MAGIC CIRCLE PLAYERS MAGIC CIRCLE PLAYERS come with come play play with us us

based on the Miramax motion picture

by Juliette Towhidi and Tim Firth January 20, 26,motion 27 @ 7:30pm based12, on 13, the 19, Miramax picture Sunday Matinées January 14 & 21 @ 2:00pm Directed by Kathy Murdoch • Assistant Director—Amy Nelp

by Juliette Towhidi and Tim Firth

CALENDAR CALENDAR GIRLS GIRLS was was first first presented presented by

by David David Pugh Pugh LTD LTD at at Chichester Chichester Festival Festival Theatre Theatre on on 5th 5th September September 2008.

2008. CALENDAR CALENDAR GIRLS GIRLS transferred transferred to to the the Noel Noel Coward Coward Theatre, Theatre, London London on on 4th April 2009.

Associate Producer: Stoneface LTD. 4th April 2009. Associate Producer: Stoneface LTD.

January 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 @ 7:30pm Sunday Matinées January 14 & 21 @ 2:00pm

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JANUARY 2018

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CALENDAR GIRLS was first presented by David Pugh LTD at Chichester Festival Theatre on 5th September 2008.

CALENDAR is by special with FRENCH, INC. CALENDARtoGIRLS GIRLS is presented presented

by Theatre, special arrangement arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. CALENDAR GIRLS transferred the Noel Coward London on 4thSAMUEL April 2009.

Associate Producer: Stoneface LTD. The author/producer etc. credit is written as it is required to appear.

The author/producer etc. credit is written as it is required to appear.

CALENDAR GIRLS is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. The author/producer etc. credit is written as it is required to appear.

Directed by Kathy Murdoch • Assistant Director—Amy Nelp

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JANUARY 2018

EDITORIAL

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3

What would you like to accomplish in a year?

D

id you know that only 8 percent of people succeed in their New Year’s resolutions?

I can think of only one person I know personally who has followed through with their resolution. I don’t know why my sweets-obsessed friend vowed to go a year without drinking Dr. Pepper—whether it was a test of endurance or for other reasons—but she sure did it. (It should be noted that I saw her guzzle one down after the clock struck midnight the following year.)

Even though I think Monday is the best day to start getting back into my gym routine, I don’t believe in waiting for January 1 to initiate change or implement personal goals.

I think that we should always have goals we work toward and that we continuously strive for growth and improvement.

But many people still reserve new beginnings for the first of the year, which is why several stories in this month’s issue beg the questions: What would you like to accomplish in a year? Is there something new you’d like to try? Maybe a project you keep putting off?

I won’t bore you with my laundry list of tabled ideas and unfinished projects, but as I update my list for the coming year, I’ve found it helpful to reflect on a few accomplishments from 2017.

• I paid off debt and have stayed debt free.

• I met a ton of new people.

• I went snowshoeing for the first time—and enjoyed it!

• I completed my first World Beer Tour at Old Chicago.

• I kept my tradition of going to Vegas at least once a year.

• I explored new places—Mesa Verde and San Diego, to name a few.

• I celebrated 10 years of being in a devoted relationship with my boyfriend, Sam. • The BEACON brought home a ton of awards, including Best of Show.

BEACON brings home the bacon There’s no way I can take all the credit for the awards we brought home from the North American Mature Publishers Association convention, but it was our most impressive year since I’ve been with the BEACON. Thank you to the BEACON staff, our freelance writers, supportive advertisers and faithful readers for a successful year! Read more about our award-winning publications on pages 14-15.

Romance awaits at this year’s Valentine’s Dance Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and save the date for the area’s best Valentine’s dance for boomers and seniors. On February 10, the BEACON Senior Newspaper and Hilltop Senior Life Options bring you an evening of fun (and possibly romance), complete with hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and big band dance music by Clark Gault’s Swing City Express, in the Garden Room at The Commons of Hilltop in Grand Junction. Advance tickets are $20 per person and $40 per couple. This event sells out—get your tickets by calling 243-8829. ■

Cloie Sandlin Editor, BEACON Senior News

COMPREHENSIVE

F A M I L Y M E D I C I N E

STONEY MESA FAMILY PRACTICE

Dr. Michelle Purvis FOR AN APPOINTMENT CALL

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4

COVER STORY

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JANUARY 2018

The Montrose Mountain Men enjoy shooting the way it was during the fur trapping era of the 1800s.

Interested in muzzleloading and mountain men?

The Montrose Mountain Men’s monthly shoots are held in Delta, the first Saturday of the month. For more information, contact Jon Day at 856-6329.

Area muzzleloading events Fort Bridger Rendezvous Fort Bridger, Wyoming Labor Day weekend www.fortbridgerrendezvous.net Fort Buenaventura Easter Rendezvous Ogden, Utah Easter weekend w ww.crazycrow.com/site/event/fort-bue naventura-easter-rendezvous/ Rocky Mountain National Rendezvous.

Various locations Early July www.rmnr.org Jim Harmon Memorial Black Powder Shoot Meeker, Colorado March www.meekercoloradosportsmansclub.com

Born 100 years too late: Mountain Men relive history Story and photos by Diana Barnett

O

n the first Saturday of each month, a small group of black powder enthusiasts gathers near Delta to practice shooting skills. The Montrose Mountain Men—a close-knit group whose mission is to enjoy shooting the way it was during the fur trapping era of the 1800s—includes participants from Delta, Olathe, Grand Junction, Glade Park, Cedaredge and Fruita.

Harry Percival has been a member for more than 25 years, and was attracted to the group because of his unique hunting style.

“I always hunted using a muzzleloader, and it’s a nice opportunity to shoot on a regular basis with others who enjoy it,” he said.

When Percival joined, three active groups in Paonia, Montrose and Grand Junction had similar interests.

“There were over 50 members in our group alone,“ he said.

Over the years, two of the groups folded. Only the Montrose group remains active.

Learning to shoot Jon Day, president of the Mountain Men, and his wife, Jennie, have been members for more than 20 years.

“We used to have the members to put on our own rendezvous, but people retire and move away or die. Or find other things to do on a Saturday,” Jon said.

Nevertheless, the regulars who have stuck around find the monthly shoots to be non-competitive, fun, social events.

“We welcome new participants— experienced or not—because this is the place to get all the advice in the world that someone would want,” said Jon. “We can help others learn.”

It’s also an opportunity for hunters to break out their guns, make sure they’re in good working order, and get in some shooting practice prior to

hunting season.

First Saturday gatherings of the Montrose Mountain Men provide shooting practice using muzzleloader rifles and pistols. Every other month, the group adds knife and tomahawk throwing. Members meet at a rural property near Delta, and hone shooting skills by rotating through a diverse, challenging set of targets.

“We always shoot in the mornings to avoid the hot weather in the summer, and end the day with a picnic under the trees,” Percival said.

The organization is family-oriented—as youngsters come of age, they learn to respect firearms and use them safely. Jon recalled that Jennie went to every shoot when she was expecting their daughter. Once she was born and old enough to hold a gun, she learned to shoot.

“There is nothing negative about this hobby,” he said. “Kids learn discipline, marksmanship and a lot about history.”

The Days’ daughter is still a club member—as is her husband.

Period-perfect Each fall, the Mountain Men host a special, rendezvous-like event.

JANUARY 2018

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Participants dress in period clothing—a fun, historical aspect of the gathering.

“You can’t just go to the market and get what you need,” Jon said. “You have to fabricate the clothing you wear. There’s a pride in creating your own, and that’s as period perfect as it can get.”

After the shoot, the group enjoys a potluck that often features Dutch oven cooking.

“You don’t have to dress up or even own a muzzleloader to join. We even have guns we can loan to people... who want to learn to shoot,” Jon said.

Jennie is the group’s resident historian, having served as curator of the Uncompahgre Interpretive Center for several years. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of geology, indigenous populations, fur trapping and frontier history.

She plays a key role in the group.

The history is an important part of the whole experience, said Jon. “Lots of young men came west to make their fortune in the fur trade; some made it and some didn’t. Many found it was a lifestyle they couldn’t give up,” he said. “By participating in these experiences, you get an idea of the amazing struggles our forefathers went through to get to where we are today—to improve America.”

Shooters who really want to experience a little frontier life attend annual regional mountain man gatherings.

Last summer, Percival and his wife attended the Rocky Mountain National Rendezvous near Montpelier, Idaho.

“Usually, you’ll find between 200 and 300 camps,” he said. “The camp lasts over several days, and pilgrims are allowed to come the first weekend to see how things are set up, then the rest of the time, the camp has to exist as a period camp.”

This particular rendezvous moves every year. In 2018, it will be held near Creede. The following year, it will be held between Montrose and Gunnison.

You can bet the Montrose Mountain Men will be there. ■

COVER STORY

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National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher ..............................Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher....................... Susan Capps Editor............................................. Cloie Sandlin Editorial Assistant................ Stephanie Summar Creative Director........................Melissa Trottier Graphic Design............................ Chrissy Martin Office Manager............................ Stacey Splude Account Representative................... Sue Bowen Account Representative........... Debra Romaniec Account Representative............. Valeree Seiferd Proofreader...................................... Jan Weeks Delivery...........................................Cora Gentry Delivery ................................. Lauren VanGundy Delivery...............................................JR Milner

210 W. Main St., Montrose, CO 81401 ph: 970.765.0477 fax: 800.536.7516 Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com E-mail: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Mountain Men President Jon Day has been a member of the group for more than 20 years.

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 2018 • All Rights Reserved

Harry and Maude Percival and Sally Lippoldt at the Jim Harmon Memorial Black Powder Shoot in Meeker.

Cover Photo: Jon Day with the Montrose Mountain Men shoots in period clothing— a fun, historical aspect of the group.

6

FEATURE STORY

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JANUARY 2018

A quiet, unassuming man, John Billings may not personify fame, but he is certainly an unrivaled winner in the awards world. He is the creator of music’s most coveted trophy: the Grammy.

Mr. Grammy: Ridgway’s master craftsman

By Jan Weeks

I

t’s been a long journey from Van Nuys, in southern California, to Ridgway for John Billings, 71.

A quiet, unassuming man, he may not personify fame, but he is certainly an unrivaled winner in the awards world. Billings is the creator of music’s most coveted trophy: the Grammy.

A SoCal boy born and bred, Billings had no intention of moving to western Colorado. He was firmly ensconced in Van Nuys as the successor to Bob Graves, the original trophymaker. He grew up in Graves’ neighbor-

hood and was his son’s best friend.

The two boys enjoyed hanging out in the workshop. Fascinated by the process of making metal art, Billings went to school to learn more about the craft.

In 2000, Dennis Weaver built his “Earthship,” Ridgway’s bermed-earth, tire-walled, ecologically friendly house. He commissioned Billings to make custom, Southwest-themed lighting fixtures. Once Billings drove into the shadow of the San Juans, he knew he was home. In 2002, he and his wife packed up and moved to the mountains.

Getting ready for the Grammys Months before the Grammy awards show, Billings receives a list of nominees in 83 categories. But he has to make many more trophies than that.

“Each person associated with a song, if they contributed at least 51 percent to the creation of the piece, gets an award,” Billings explained.

“These include producers, sound mixers and others.”

Some artists, such as Taylor Swift, have as many as 20 people associated with the album. How does Billings determine his output?

“I used to be into racing,” he said.

“I’m pretty good at handicapping.”

This year he estimates he will make 350 statues.

If you think he might let slip the names of the winners, you’re out of luck. No one knows until the night of the show, held on January 28 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This year marks the Grammy’s 60th anniversary.

“Stunt Grammys are handed out at the ceremony,” Billings said. “Then about a month later, I get a list of winners and engrave the plates that go on the real trophies, which are still at my shop. I take the plates and the awards to Los Angeles. The Recording Academy then affixes the plates and sends the finished products to

JANUARY 2018

FEATURE STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

7

Months before the Grammy awards show, Billings receives a list of nominees in 83 categories. But he has to make many more trophies than that—this year, he estimates he will make 350 statues. the winners.”

He returns with the stunt Grammys and cleans them by taking them apart and washing them with dish detergent to remove fingerprints and grime. Then they go back to Los Angeles, ready for the next ceremony.

Inside the Grammy Award On his trip west, Billings also picks up 3,000 pounds of what he dubs “grammium,” a dull silverish metal that he uses to cast the gramophone.

Then the figure is gold plated.

Creating a piece is complicated.

First Billings makes a model of wax, plastic, wood or metal. He makes a mold by encasing the model in plaster to make an impression, then carves a detailed pattern into it.

Using the plaster patterns, he creates a bronze mold with a sand casting method. The figure is then cast in brass or other metal.

The original Grammy was much smaller, able to sit comfortably in an outstretched palm. The curved bracket that held the stylus broke easily, so Billings redesigned it to make it sturdier. Then the company asked artists to create a larger one, so

Billings made it 30 percent bigger.

“When I walked into the office, the executive said, ‘That’s it!’” he recalled.

The Grammy statues are only a small part of what Billings does. He makes awards for the Latin Grammys, the National Collegiate Athletic Association Player of the Year trophy and the Annie Awards presented by the International Animated Film Society.

He also makes other specialized figures, including the metal skull that adorns the gas tank of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Hundreds, if not thousands, of Billings’ creations—chrome ducks smoking cigars—adorn the hoods of semi trucks across the world. (He had to modify the design for a client in the Middle East, however, who wanted a duck without the cigar.)

Billings also made the mold for the dining room lighting fixtures used in the sinking scene in the movie “Titanic.”

An art deco fan, he often designs stylized female figures and other motifs in the 1920s style to sit on mantels, coffee tables and more. Billings paints, too, focusing on large por-

trayals of deceased guitarists. John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix, Gregg Allman and others—instantly recognizable to any rock fan—fill one wall of his basement workshop.

He also restores trophies—when an award winner’s grandsons decided to use the Grammy as a makeshift football, it came back to Billings to have the dented horn straightened out.

One of his most interesting repairs involved a four-foot tall trophy Amelia Earhart won in a 1939 race. Three Winged Victory figures hold a bowl with a plane on top. Earhart’s photographer came into possession of the trophy, and it languished in a box for decades.

“It took me a month to solder the pieces together,” Billings said.

The trophy now sits in the San Diego Air and Space Museum.

Two years ago, Billings was commissioned to create an executive desk lamp in the shape of Dragon V2, the capsule Elon Musk’s SpaceX company will use to deliver goods to the International Space Station.

In 2018, the capsule will carry seven of the lamps into orbit. ■

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Billings also makes awards for the Latin Grammys, the National Collegiate Athletic Association Player of the Year and the Annie Awards.

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For all your smoking needs, edibles also available.

8

TALKING DIGITAL

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TALKING

Colorow Care Center

DIGITAL

Local, professional, patient-centered care in a community upholding the highest standards of excellence.

Colorow is a skilled nursing facility that believes in healthy living, person-centered care and nontraditional approaches in meeting everyday needs.

By Adam Cochran

Tidy up your digital clutter

W

ell, you did it. You made it through another holiday season without learning the words to “Auld Lang Syne.”

While you likely skipped the plum pudding, avoided mistletoe at all costs and finally found someone to regift last year’s fruit cake to, it goes without saying that you are still finding tinsel and wrapping paper in embarrassing nooks and crannies.

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We end each year by making messes, so it only makes sense to begin the new year by tidying up.

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

It feels good “ to contribute to

the mission of HopeWest. As a volunteer, I know I serve a purpose for the whole organization.”

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HopeWest Heirlooms Volunteer

Make a difference,

become a HopeWest volunteer.

Call (970)257-2378 today.

Before computers, smartphones, tablets and the internet, all of life’s clutter tended to lie out in the open, where it taunted us until it was cleaned up.

Unfortunately, that’s not how digital clutter works. Some of these things can be done on your own, while others may require assistance from a techsavvy individual.

Quickly declutter your documents and email This may seem overwhelming, but I’m not talking about a tedious assessment of each file. Quickly browse through and delete old homeowners association meeting announcements, Black Friday alerts or documents you created for a one-time need.

You can select more than one item at a time by holding down the CTRL button on a PC or the COMMAND button on a Mac and clicking on each file. Tap the delete key to send it all to the trash.

Empty your trash This process rarely affects the performance of your computer, but knowing

HopeWestCO.org

JANUARY 2018

that your trash is empty can be liberating.

Eliminate distant acquaintances on social media If you’re active on Facebook, there’s a good chance you once friended someone you’ve long forgotten about—former coworkers, your child’s kindergarten teacher, etc.

Your Facebook friends are not notified when you unfriend them, so there’s no need to be embarrassed if you no longer want to be connected to them on social media.

Dust your machine I don’t judge anyone for their housekeeping, but letting your computer get full of dust can be both expensive and dangerous. Computers have fans that suck air in past the processor to keep it cool. Over time, dust from the air builds up and can insulate the parts the fan is trying to cool. The computer can overheat and—while uncommon—even catch fire.

Back up your machine This is the most important item on the list. It doesn’t matter how you do it, but make sure all of your important documents and pictures are saved in at least two places. Cloud backup services such as Carbonite are best, but anything is better than nothing.

Ask yourself, “If my house burned down today, would I still have all the photos and documents saved on my computer?”

If the answer is no, take care of that before you go to bed tonight. ■

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

JANUARY 2018

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

ASK THE OLD BAG

9

ASK THE OLD BAG

By Gayle Lagman-Creswick ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD

Is fear of the unknown holding you back?

Dear Old Bag: Here we are in a new year. There is nothing new about it. I am still here, living with a man I do not love or respect. I will not elaborate on his transgressions, but believe me, it is something he could be prosecuted for.

He is very self-centered. Now that he is retired, he does nothing constructive or interesting. He is a weird guy, to say the least. We have been married for 45 years. I have wanted to leave him for 20 years and cannot seem to get it done, mostly for monetary reasons. We have a decent home and decent income together. If we split, both of us will be hard hit financially. All my friends say, “Get out of there. You deserve happiness.” What do you say? Signed, Foot Dragger Dear Foot Dragger: I say, only you can decide which is more important to you…financial security or freedom. The more years that go by, the harder it is to make a decision to part company; even bad habits are hard to break. I couldn’t live like that, but each of us is different. Fear of the unknown usually keeps us from acting.

You know what you face each day in your marriage. If you were to leave, there would be lots of unknowns, right? Good luck. O.B.

Dear Old Bag: You probably receive many letters like this, but I’ve decided that I have lived too long. I am only 65, but socially, I feel 100 years old. On my computer, I receive hateful things about our president—things that I would not repeat. Over the weekend, my 18-year-old granddaughter and I were discussing the Pledge of Allegiance. She told me that the pledge is said every morning in her high school classroom, but very few stand up and say it—including her. I was mortified. When she saw how surprised I was, she said her mother said it was okay if she did not support it. Then I was really shocked.

Can you imagine an 18-year-old who lives free in this country who does not support the flag? Like I said, I’ve lived too long! Signed, Mortified Dear Mortified: I share your angst.

Our generation has experienced war and lost loved ones who were fighting for our freedom. I suppose that an 18-year-old has not experienced war until now, and does not understand what that flag means to us. This kind of thing needs to be taught at home, and obviously she did not receive that teaching. I hope you made an impression on her and that she will think about the meaning of our flag. O.B. ■

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

Get to the Right Place with Brookdale Senior Living.

Brookdale is here to assist your family through each step in the search for senior living. Whether you’re beginning your search or just have questions, you’ll find the help you need to make a thoughtful, well-informed decision.

We’re ready to listen, understand and partner to find the right options for you or your loved one.

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care

Call Brookdale Sunrise Creek Senior Living to learn more 970-240-0600.

1968 Sunrise Drive, Montrose, CO 81401

970-240-0600 • www.brookdale.com

Sunday Serenades Music at Montrose Regional Library Join us for musical entertainment, refreshments will be served The Western Slope Singers will perform Sunday, January 21, 12:00 p.m.

970-249-9656

320 South 2nd Street, Montrose CO 81401

montroselibrary.org

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

10

LAUGHING MATTERS

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LAUGHING MATTERS And God created Dog Submitted by Frankie Brown

Adam and Eve said, “Lord, when we were in the garden, you walked with us every day. Now we don’t see you anymore. We’re lonesome here, and it’s difficult for us to remember how much you love us.”

God said, “No problem! I will create a companion that will be with you forever and who will be a reflection of my love for you, so that you will love me even when you cannot see me. Regardless of how selfish or childish or unlovable you may be, this new companion will accept you as you are and love you as I do.”

And God created a new animal to be a companion for Adam and Eve. And it was a good animal. And God was pleased. And the new animal was pleased and wagged its tail.

Adam said, “Lord, I have already named all the animals in the Kingdom and I cannot think of a name for this new animal.”

And God said, “No problem!

Because I have created him to be a reflection of my love for you, his name will be a reflection of mine, and you will call him ‘Dog.’”

After a while, it came to pass that an angel came to the Lord and said, “Lord, Adam and Eve have become filled with pride. They believe they are worthy of adoration. Dog has indeed taught them that they are loved, but perhaps too well.”

And God said, “No problem! I will create for them a companion who will be with them forever and who will see them as they are. The

“The difference is you have to come to complete stop, that’s the law. License and registration, please!”

And God created Cat. And Cat would not obey them. When Adam and Eve gazed into Cat’s eyes, they were reminded that they were not the supreme beings. They learned humility.

And they were greatly improved. And God was pleased. And Dog was happy.

And Cat didn’t care.

The lawyer says, “If you can show me the legal difference between slow down and stop, I’ll give you my license and registration and you give me the ticket. If not, you let me go and don’t give me the ticket.”

The ex Submitted by Charles Harper

A man and his wife are dining at a table in a plush restaurant, and the husband keeps staring at an old, drunken lady swigging her gin and sitting alone at a nearby table.

The wife finally asks, “Do you know her?”

“Yes,” sighs the husband, “She’s my ex-wife. She took to drinking right after we divorced seven years ago, and I hear she hasn’t been sober since.”

“My goodness!” says the wife. “Who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?”

Lawyers vs. the law Submitted by Orlando Benoit

A lawyer runs a stop sign and gets pulled over by a sheriff’s deputy.

Thinking he is smarter than the deputy, he decides to have some fun at the deputy’s expense.

The deputy says, “License and registration, please.”

“What for?” says the lawyer.

The deputy says, “You didn’t come to a complete stop at the stop sign.”

“I slowed down, and no one was coming.”

“You still didn’t come to a complete stop,” says the deputy. “License and registration, please.”

The lawyer says, “What’s the difference?”

“That sounds fair,” says the deputy.

“Please exit your vehicle, sir.”

When he does, the deputy takes out his nightstick and starts beating the daylights out of the lawyer.

“Do you want me to stop, or just slow down?” he asks.

The young doctor Submitted by Kyle Thomas

A young doctor moved out to a small community to replace a doctor who was retiring. The older doctor suggested that the young one accompany him on house calls so the community could get used to a new doctor.

As they left the house, the younger man said, “You didn’t even examine that woman. How’d you come to that diagnosis so quickly?”

“I didn’t have to examine her,” he replied. “Did you notice when I dropped my stethoscope on the floor in there? When I bent over to pick it up, I noticed a half-dozen banana peels in the trash. That was what probably was making her sick.”

“Pretty clever,” the younger doctor said. “I think I’ll try that at the next house.”

At the next house, they spent several minutes talking with a younger woman. She complained that she just didn’t have the energy she once did, and said, “I’m feeling terribly rundown lately.”

“You’ve probably been doing too much work for the church,” the younger doctor told her. “Perhaps you should cut back a bit and see if that helps.”

At the first house, a woman complained, “I’ve been a little sick to my stomach.”

As they left, the elder doctor said, “I know that woman well. Your diagnosis is almost certainly correct, but how did you arrive at it?”

The older doctor said, “Well, you’ve probably been overdoing the fresh fruit. Why not cut back on the amount you’ve been eating and see if that does the trick?”

“I did what you did at the last house,” he said. “I dropped my stethoscope and when I bent down to retrieve it, I noticed the preacher under the bed.” ■

s U e k a M

Hahaha

And Dog lived with Adam and Eve, and they were comforted. And God was pleased. And Dog was content and wagged his tail.

companion will remind them of their limitations, so they will know they are not always worthy of adoration.”

JANUARY 2018

! h g u a L

Send your JOKES to

Beacon@pendantpublishing.com or

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

JANUARY 2018

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The

Guide

Would you like additional copies of the 2018 BEACON Guide to give away?

Your guide to aging well in Delta & Montrose counties The

By Cloie Sandlin

Search resources online

tart the new year off right with the 2018 BEACON Guide, our annual publication designed to help you age well in Delta & Montrose counties.

The BEACON Guide—a trusted resource directory for area seniors, their families and those who assist them—has only gotten bigger and better. In addition to hundreds of local, state and national resources and hard-to-find phone numbers, it also features informative articles to help you with the transitions that you or a loved one may be going through.

From finding leisure activities to planning your retirement, from home health care to moving to an assisted living facility, The BEACON Guide will help you navigate the continuum of care. The guide also includes listings for clubs, genealogy resources, veterinarians and pet shelters, support groups, volunteer opportunities and more.

As our community grows, so does the guide. Many listings are added each year. We’ve taken great care to make sure that every listing is accurate and up to date. Every listed phone number is called and personally verified year after year.

Though geared towards seniors, many households keep The BEACON Guide on hand throughout the year.

We’ve launched a digital version of The BEACON Guide that’s more robust than ever. Visit www.Beacon SeniorNews.com to explore a virtual format that can be turned page by page with a click of the mouse. You can also search for listings using keywords.

S

The Your FREE guide

to aging well in

Your FREE guide to

Mesa County

•

aging well in Montrose

& Delta Counties •

FREE

Guide

FREE

Guide

Get your free copies If your copy isn’t in this issue of the BEACON, or if you’d like to request additional copies, call us at 243-8829 and we will mail them to you. Our Mesa County edition is also available by calling the number above.

We distribute editions of The BEACON Guide throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. It can be found in numerous doctors’ offices, senior centers, hospitals and more. Businesses are able to call and request them in bulk and we will deliver them personally. ■

MONTROSE & DELTA MESA COUNTY

COUNTY

2018

2018

Please deliver ❒ 25 ❒ 50 ❒ 75 Other_____ copies of the 2018 BEACON Guide to: COMPANY:_____________________________________________________________ CONTACT NAME:_________________________________________________________ DELIVERY ADDRESS:_____________________________________________________ PHONE:________________________________________________________________ EMAIL:________________________________________________________________

❒ Mesa County edition ❒ Montrose & Delta edition Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com or • Call: 970-243-8829

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JANUAR

Time to scratch things off the itch list



By Melanie Wiseman

I

f you started 2018 with a list of New Year’s resolutions, why not think bigger? Abraham Lincoln understood.

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years,” he said.

There’s no point in waiting. It’s time to put your bucket list on paper and start checking it off! (If you find that “bucket list” reminds you too much of “kicking the bucket,” then call it a

 Bungee jumping in New Zealand.  Getting ready to paraglide over Queenstown, New Zealand.

 Perry at Patagonia  Perry developed a friendship with his mentor, John Goddard.

 On top of Mount St. Helens after it blew.

(My first full moon hike to the top of a mountain)

 Skydiving in Moab



“life list,” “wander list” or an “itch list”—the things you’re just itching to do.)

“Most everyone has a bucket list, but they lack the motivation to accomplish it,” said Mike Perry, 72. “Making a bucket list of all the things you want to do is one thing, but for many, that’s as far as it goes. Maybe it’s fear that gets in your way, procrastination or lack of commitment. Maybe you just need a nudge or a partner to motivate you to get off the couch.”

Perry inspires hundreds with lectures on attacking bucket lists. His lifestyle is proof





that he believes itch lists should be done, not just dreamed.

“Always do something new, keep your mind stimulated, get out of your comfort zone,” Perry said. “Anytime you can include your family, that’s always a good thing.”

In his mid-20s, Perry was a self-described “Indiana Jones wannabe.” He still treasures an article he tore from a 1972 issue of Life Magazine, titled “One Man’s Life of No Regrets.” It recounted the amazing, goal-driven life of John Goddard, one of the world’s most famous anthropologists, explorers and adventurers.

At 15, Goddard wrote down 127 goals to achieve during his life. They were not simple or easy: becoming an Eagle Scout, climbing the world’s major mountains, piloting the world’s fastest aircraft, reading the entire Encyclopedia Britannica. His list grew over time, but by the end of his 88-year life, he had accomplished an impressive 109 of his original goals.

He became known as “The World’s Greatest Goal Achiever.”

“John Goddard has always been my hero,” said Perry. “My dream was to meet my mentor, the man I modeled my life after.”

In 2003, as Perry prepared to speak on goal setting before a group of scouts and other youth, he wondered if there was a chance of receiving advice from Goddard. Perry tracked

RY 2018

13

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

down his phone number.

Surprisingly, Goddard himself answered the phone and, following a friendly exchange, he invited Perry to his California home.

Perry developed a close friendship with his mentor in the decade before Goddard’s death. They communicated frequently and visited several times—Goddard even spoke at Colorado Mesa University and at the Western Colorado Boy Scouts Council Peak Vision Award dinner in 2006.

“He signed the Life Magazine article I had saved all these years. ‘To Mike, a fellow adventurer, with love and friendship, John Goddard,’” said Perry. “He later signed a card to me, ‘To my kindred spirit,’ and claimed it was his good fortune as well to meet me. That means so much to me.”

To help others attain their dreams, Perry has led adventures to places including Iceland, Cuba and Peru. He has bungee-jumped in New Zealand, sky-dived and parasailed. He is completing a coast-to-coast bike ride in pieces.

“Some goals take longer than others to accomplish and that’s okay,” he said.

There’s a new year ahead of us.

How will you spend it? Ride a horse on the beach. Learn a new language. Travel. Scuba dive. Learn to knit. Sleep under the stars. Reconnect with a childhood friend. Raft the Grand Canyon. It’s time to get started! ■



Any good bucket list consists of overcoming fears, realizing dreams and achieving goals.

Here’s Mike’s advice on how to get started: • Start your list with a draft and refine it as you find new ideas.

• Surround yourself with passionate people. Stay clear of people who limit your dreams.

• Include family, health and friends.

• Stay optimistic, be flexible and have fun.

• Be specific and build in accountability.

• Keep a journal.

• Take advantage of the knowledge of others.

• Choose to live happily. Life is too short to be sad, upset or negative.

• Post your bucket list in a prominent place where you can see it every day.



14

JANUARY 2018

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BEACON Senior Newspaper wins national awards

By Cloie Sandlin

C

hristmas comes early every year for the BEACON staff when our publisher, Kevin, returns from the annual North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA) convention.

This year’s convention took place in Oak Brook, Illinois just outside of Chicago. Aside from seeing the sights with other senior publishers from across the country, a highlight of the convention is the awards banquet, where senior publications big and small vie for top honors in a variety of categories. Publications are independently judged on the quality of their written content, editing, design, photography, web content and more by the prestigious Missouri School of Journalism. The best are then commended for their efforts with awards.

This year, your BEACON Senior Newspaper and its staff were nominated in the following categories: General Excellence • BEACON Senior Newspaper, Colorado Column Review • “Talking Digital” by Adam Cochran • “Alive & Digging” by Paige Slaughter Personal Essay • “Do you speak? Neither do I” by Jan Weeks (June 2017) • “Just a dusty old box” by Terri Benson (March 2017)

Mesa County’s

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How-to Feature • “How to pass down your heirlooms without breaking up your family” by Cecily Whiteside (March 2017) Profile • “A rough and tumble day at the office: Hollywood stuntman retires in Grand Junction” by Amanda Arnold (January 2017) • “Grandma is one tough mudder” by Melanie Wiseman (October 2016) • “Ready to jump? Betty Teegarden’s skydiving adventure” by Jan Weeks (February 2017) • “The wheel deal: Judy Lokey gets ready for her 17th Ride the Rockies” by April Martinez (June 2017) Feature Writing • “Living history in Cuba” by Melanie Wiseman (January 2017) • “Growing up is optional: Experience the magic of Disney” by Diana Barnett (April 2017) • “Staring in the face of danger: a ride-along with Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies” by Kathy Applebee (June 2017) • “Good things come in tiny spaces” by Jan Weeks (June 2017) • “Marijuana in the Grand Valley: It’s been a long, strange trip” by Susan Elenz (April 2017)

2018

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MESA COUNTY MONTROSE & DELTA COUNTY

• “Reel women on the fly” by Melanie Wiseman (March 2017) • “Leave your voice behind for loved ones” by Melinda Mawdsley (March 2017) Topical Issue • “Is the North Fork going south?” by Robert Cox (May 2017) Special Section • Summer Travel & Festivals (June 2017) Front Cover Photo • “Create A Legacy” (March 2017) by Melanie Wiseman • “Grandma is one tough mudder” (October 2016) Feature Layout • “Reel women on the fly” (March 2017) • “Join the coloring craze” (October 2016) Overall Design • BEACON Senior Newspaper, Colorado Annual Senior Resource Guide (Editorial & Design) • 2017 BEACON Guide Website General Excellence • BEACON Senior Newspaper, Colorado

2018

JANUARY 2018

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And the winners are...

Subscribe to the...

General Excellence

3rd Place------------------------------------------- BEACON Senior Newspaper, Colorado

Column Review

1st Place------------------------------------------------“Talking Digital” by Adam Cochran

Personal Essay

2nd Place----------------------------“Just a dusty old box” by Terri Benson (March 2017)

Feature Writing

2nd Place------------------“Good things come in tiny spaces” by Jan Weeks (June 2017)

Topical Issue

1st Place--------------------- “Is the North Fork going south?” by Robert Cox (May 2017)

Special Section

1st Place------------------------------------------ Summer Travel & Festivals (June 2017)

Front Cover Photo

1st Place--------------------------------- “Grandma is one tough mudder” (October 2016) 2nd Place--------------------------“Create A Legacy” (March 2017) by Melanie Wiseman

Feature Layout

2nd Place-----------------------------------------“Join the coloring craze” (October 2016) 3rd Place------------------------------------------ “Reel women on the fly” (March 2017)

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Overall Design

3rd Place------------------------------------------- BEACON Senior Newspaper, Colorado

Annual Senior Resource Guide

1st Place Design----------------------------------------------------- 2017 BEACON Guide 3rd Place Editorial--------------------------------------------------- 2017 BEACON Guide

Website General Excellence

1st Place --------------------------------------------------- www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Best of Show

For the first time in my years at the BEACON, we walked away with the Best of Show award— the top award in our division.

Putting together a BEACON isn’t easy. It takes novel ideas, creative design and photography, careful editing, intriguing and well-written stories, supportive advertisers and a dedicated staff.

I believe that the number and quality of the local articles we publish in the BEACON make us stand out at such competitions. Many of our award-winning stories about local people and local issues might never have been written if it weren’t for our wonderful, local writers. Thank you!

But above all, the BEACON would not be where it is today if it weren’t for you, our readers. Thank you for reading the BEACON Senior Newspaper.

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

FUN & GAMES

I have the education and real estate experience to serve as your trusted adviser through the unique financial and lifestyle transitions involved in relocating or selling your family home.

Personal, Professional, Property Brokers

Michelle Klippert

Senior Real Estate Specialist 500 E. Main Street, Montrose

www.the-res.com

970.275.3016

michelleklippertrealtor@gmail.com

Turn to page 22 for your puzzle answers 50 Direction from Eden?

51 Shadow 58 Indepen­dently 59 Musical McEntire 60 Watch part 62 Ointment 63 “I second that!”

64 Cloudy 65 Completely unfamiliar 66 Indicates yes, in a way 67 Your family is part of one Down 1 Massenet’s “Le ___” 2 Juilliard cofounder 3 Large jug 4 Hereditary 5 Rocky 6 First word in magic 7 Dodge City lawman 8 Ukulele ­feature 9 Made a dress 10 Coiffure 11 Presque ___, Maine 12 The Sail (southern constel­lation) 13 Contro­versial ­pesticide 21 Wrestling hold 22 Eagles’ hit “___ California”

25 Thin ­cracker 26 Mervyn Peake novel “Titus ___” 27 Got one’s goat 28 Gray 29 Marina ­feature 31 She was jilted by Jason 32 Secret one 33 From Bergen 35 Preminger or Graham 36 Dog topper 39 Dentist’s request 40 Like some alibis?

45 Deviate 47 Praiseful songs 49 Time and again 50 Slackened 51 What Castro calls home?

52 1995 ­hurricane 53 West African republic 54 Mediter­ranean port 55 Temp’s pad 56 Get closer to 57 Knock for a loop 61 Salinger’s grain

For the puzzle answers see page 22

Retirees have different needs in Real Estate

Across 1 Musical symbol 5 Child or Puck, e.g.

9 Deity ­worshiped as “The Destroyer” 14 The 29th state 15 Blast furnace sound 16 Exhibit ­supporter 17 Form an opinion 18 Something to grow on 19 American novelist Cather 20 Shadow 23 Asset for Tina Turner 24 Kind of duck 25 Cautiously 28 Unusually intelligent 30 Muscat’s milieu 34 TV’s “___ Smith and Jones” 35 Basket-maker’s ­willow 37 Elton John song 38 Shadow 41 ATC’s point 42 Explosives ingredient 43 Encum­brances 44 John Reed film bio 46 Coach Shula 47 William Kidd, for one 48 Hand wringer’s feeling

JANUARY 2018

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FUN & GAMES

16

3

8 1 7 2 4 8 7 4 5 7 6 2 8 3 6 7

9

7

9

6

1 2 4 9 5 6 1 5 7 2 8 3 5 1

Puzzle by websudoku.com

Crossword Puzzle

JANUARY 2018

HOME & GARDEN 17

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Rooting resolutions:

Pain relief and whole body health the natural way

Bring life at large into your garden

Acupuncture and Natural Health Clinic

Alive & Digging

Our clinic treats:

By Paige Slaughter

A

s we lay out plans to better ourselves, I invite you to consider a concept from author and entrepreneur Danielle Laporte, who asks, “What will you do to feel the way you want to feel?”

Laporte directs her readers from outward goals (go to the gym more, for example) to deeper ones: I want to feel strong, energized and empowered.

Today, I’ll hit the gym.

This subtle shift in goal setting brings awareness of our deeper desires, granting us clarity that is crucial in seeking joy and fulfillment.

In setting goals for this new year, we can look at our gardens as living, breathing opportunities. In the garden, we can give root to our resolutions.

Begin with the end in mind Making a blueprint for your garden is like designing Utopia. With all that power comes a chance to breathe life into our values.

When we have deeper goals, we have more flexibility in how we go about achieving them. The possibilities are endless! What once was a chore is now an open field.

Integrate your values, budget and resourcefulness into your planning process as you select soil, seeds and plant starts. With each decision, you may find yourself closer to feeling the way you want to feel.

“We can grow our medicine.

We can facilitate life in the garden and reap the rewards, which are full, deeply nourishing, surprising and manifold.”

Planting good health Wellness is central to lifestyle, and usually gets extra attention this time of year. Grounding wellness resolutions in a clear understanding of how we want to feel means we can design our gardens to match.

We can grow our medicine. We can facilitate life in the garden and reap the rewards, which are full, deeply nourishing, surprising and manifold.

Consider high-impact gardening methods, in which you utilize every bit of space by seeding thick and thinning-harvesting continually. Grow a mix of annual and perennial herbs, a variety of roots and fruits in a range of colors.

Diversity in the garden means diversity on the plate.

Getting clear on what we enjoy doing with our harvests helps us optimize our space by guiding our planting decisions. Consider growing food that you can dry and ferment in the fall and store through the winter.

• Back Pain • Neck Pain • Knee Pain • Other Health Conditions Dr. Yuliya Jirnov, DOM (NM) LAc, Doctor of Oriental Medicine

121 N. Park Ave., Montrose

970-318-0198 www.comeforhealth.net

Cigna insurance accepted

Other insurances may cover services

ENHANCE YOUR LIFE WITH A STAIRLIFT YOU LOVE YOUR HOME. LET YOUR HOME LOVE YOU WITH A CONNECTION BETWEEN FLOORS. ACCESS IS NO LONGER A PROBLEM! • PEACE OF MIND • QUIET • STYLISH Take a stairlift journey to independence with a Bruno Stairlift, proudly made in the USA.

Any blueprint guided by our deeper desires is likely to manifest into something profound. Happy rooting! ■

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

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JANUARY 2018

FUN AFTER 50

Activities offered by the Montrose Recreation District To register for these programs, call the Montrose Recreation District at 249-7705 or visit www.montroserec.com.

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JANUARY 15 The Montrose Connection Are you new to Montrose? Would you like to connect with like-minded people? Share ideas and network with others from 6:15-8 p.m. at the Montrose Community Recreation Center’s party rooms. Seating is limited, so register by calling 249-7705 or visiting www.montroserec.com.

ATV’s • Snowmobiles Golf Carts • Tractors

JANUARY 9 James M. Robb State Park and lunch in Grand Junction Join us as we explore the Connected Lakes during an easy hike. Meet at the Senior Center at 8:15 a.m. Cost is $18; bring money for lunch.

JANUARY 18 Frag art glass class and lunch in Hotchkiss During this two-hour class, you’ll make a small sun catcher or a necklace and earrings of your own design.

Meet at the Senior Center at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $30, which includes instruction and supplies. Bring money for lunch.

JANUARY 25 Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park We will snowshoe, weather permitting, and will reschedule if necessary.

Dress in layers, wear sunscreen and bring a sack lunch. Location is subject to change based on snow conditions.

The cost is $18, and snowshoes are provided by the park. Bring a sack lunch.

JANUARY 27 Metropolitan Opera Live in high definition “Tosca,” Puccini’s melodrama about a volatile diva, a sadistic police chief

and an idealistic artist has thrilled audiences for more than a century. This is a three-hour show that includes behind-the-scenes interviews with the cast and directors. Meet at the Fieldhouse at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $38; bring money for a late lunch.

GAMES JANUARY 15 Monday Night Out Enjoy a potluck, line dancing and games from 4-8 p.m. Bring a dish to share and $2 for paper goods and prizes. You are free to participate in one or all of the activities. For more information, call Cindy at 252-4884.

THURSDAYS Montrose Cribbage Club Keep your mind sharp by playing Cribbage. Attendance is free and all ages are welcome. New player? We’ll teach you. Expert? We have players who will give you a challenge. Meet at the Senior Center from 1-3 p.m.

Call 252-7243 for details.

MUSIC & DANCE MONDAYS Line dancing Line dance from 4-6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth Mondays of the month, and 5-7 p.m. on the third Monday at the Montrose Senior Center. A $2 donation is requested.

MONDAYS Jam session/sing along Join us from 4-6 p.m. if you play an instrument and/or sing! Each person gets a turn to choose and lead a song and others play along. ■

JANUARY 2018

MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES 19

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new items at, , starvin arvin s

AND PUFFERBELLY RESTAURANT

Fresh Berry Crepes $699 Open 6am-2pm 204 Ute St Delta

Calendar JANUARY 3-31 Poetry discussion class Each Wednesday from noon to 2 p.m. through January 31, immerse yourself in a five-week discussion class on mindfulness poems from the collection “Poetry of Presence.” Participants will need to purchase a book prior to the class, available at www.poetryof presencebook.com or through Amazon.

Registration for the series is $125.

JANUARY 4 Blood drive Give blood at Rosemont Baptist Church from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. One donation saves up to three lives. Sign up to be a donor at 249-4887. A photo ID is required. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy meal before donating.

JANUARY 9 Astronomy highlights for 2018 The Black Canyon Astronomical Society presents “Observing Highlights for 2018” at 7 p.m. in the Partner’s Community Meeting Room, 511 E. 10th St., Delta. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.blackcanyonastronomy.com or call 856-7716.

JANUARY 10 Watercolor course Develop more confidence in brush strokes and learn to paint more expressive watercolors with nationally recognized artist Mike Simpson at the Montrose Fieldhouse from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuition is $95. To register, visit apm.activecommunities.com/weehawk enarts/Activity_Search/2512.

JANUARY 20 Concealed carry class This concealed carry class fulfills the training requirements set forth in the Colorado State firearms statute to qualify for a concealed handgun permit.

Topics include safe loading, unloading, storage and carrying of firearms to be concealed; current laws defining lawful self defense; pistol operation; maintenance and cleaning and more. The class begins at 10 a.m. at the Montrose Holiday Inn and Suites. Register at www. equip2conceal.com/colorado.

JANUARY 26-27 Food and Farm Forum The sixth annual Western Colorado Food and Farm Forum will be held at the Montrose Pavilion and the county fairgrounds from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The educational conference features producers, educators and researchers with practical knowledge and regional experience discussing crops, livestock, marketing and management, as well as ag specialty topics. Register at www. foodfarmforum.org.

JANUARY 27 “The Silk Road” The living musical heritage of the Silk Road links listeners to thousands of years of trade and exchange among the peoples from the shores of the Mediterranean to the shores of the Pacific. Enjoy a performance at Blue Sage Center for the Arts, 226 Grand Ave., in Paonia from 12:30-2 p.m. ■

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20 MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES

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JANUARY 2018

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Montrose Memorial aims to reduce drug abuse and protect the environment Montrose Memorial Hospital (MMH) unveiled a resource expected both to reduce prescription drug abuse and protect the environment. “The Box” is a new service provided by the hospital to help remove expired or unwanted prescription drugs from the community.

The Box, similar to an old-fashioned mailbox, is secured in the hospital emergency department lobby, enabling 24/7 public access. Prior to The Box, there was no way for the hospital to legally accept such materials. With a secured box and approval from the Drug Enforcement Agency, MMH is now a registered collector of controlled substances. Prescription drug abuse has been named a national emergency, and the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration have advised the public that flushing unused medicines down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose safety hazards to the public and the environment.

Become a Colorado Master Gardener The Colorado State University Extension, Tri River Area, is seeking applicants for its Master Gardener Apprentice class. Colorado Master Gardeners extend knowledge-based education throughout Colorado communities to foster successful gardeners and help individuals make informed decisions about plants. This 11-week course starts on Thursday, January 18.

Each week, a different subject is taught by an expert. Becoming a Master Gardener requires a 50-hour volunteer commitment the first year, but the class can also be taken, without the volunteer component, for a higher price. Call the CSU Extension, Tri River Area, at 244-1834 for details.

Dance with the Hubwheelers The Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will host dances on Saturday, January 6, and Saturday, January 20, from 7-9 p.m. at the Bill Heddles Recreation

Center. The January 6 dance will be a pajama dance. Dancers are encouraged to wear bedtime attire. January 20’s dance is a regular event with no special theme. Both dances feature club caller, Naaman Moorehouse. Come early for a “Plus Workshop” at 6:30 p.m. Dances are mainstream with plus tips. Round dances are to recordings. Bring refreshments to share at intermission. Coming from out of town? Call 835-3771 to verify dates and details.

Record year of food and toy deliveries for vets The Colorado Aviation Business Association (CABA) announced recordbreaking holiday airlift deliveries resulting from its seventh annual food and toy drive. Since 2011, CABA has partnered with the Colorado Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Metropolitan State University of Denver to collect and distribute non-perishable food and toys to veterans and their families across Colorado. During this year’s airlift, conducted on December 10, 7,800 pounds of goods were delivered to 11 Colorado towns using 33 aircraft, which provided holiday joy to approximately 700 families in Montrose, Delta, Alamosa, Pueblo, Las Animas, Burlington, Fort Morgan and Greeley. In Montrose, a portion of the cargo was transferred to two additional aircraft which were then flown by highly experienced mountain pilots for deliveries to Durango, Cortez and Dove Creek. Aircraft were met at the destination airports by teams of VFW personnel who distributed the goods directly to families in need. ■

JANUARY 2018

MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES 21

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Clubs & Activities Black Canyon Classics Car Club meets monthly on the first Tuesday.

The club is open to all ages interested in classic cars, street rods, trucks and other vehicles. For meeting time and location, call 249-6051.

Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club hosts dances from 7-9 p.m. on January 6 and 20 in the Bill Heddles Recreation Center Aerobics Room in Delta. Dances are main stream plus tips. Bring refreshments to share.

“Plus Workshop” before dancing.

Call 773-4495.

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the third Friday at the Olathe Community Center. Call 417-6142.

Montrose Elks Bingo takes place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Montrose Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr. Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances monthly from 7:30-11 p.m. on

the second and fourth Saturdays at the Montrose Pavilion. Dancers of all ages are welcome. Bring a snack to share.

Cost is $5. Call 252-7172.

Montrose Women’s Club meets for monthly luncheons at noon on the third Monday, September through May. All Montrose area women are invited to attend. For location, call 275-3336.

San Juan Dance Club meets from 6:45-8 p.m. Thursdays at the Lions Clubhouse in Montrose. Call 7088333.

Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesdays at the Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road in Montrose. Call 275-0754.

Wild Bunch 4x4 Club meets at Flower Motor in Montrose. For dates and times, email desertrat27@ hotmail.com. ■

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WHO WON THE 2018 BEACON BEST AWARDS? 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 Ranking as the eleventh animal in Chinese zodiac, Dog is the symbol of loyalty and honesty. People born in the Year of the Dog possess the best traits of human nature. They are honest, friendly, faithful, loyal, smart, straightforward, venerable and have a strong sense of responsibility.

Find out in February!

This special issue highlights the locales you love the most.

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Join us at the lodge every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at 801 South Hillcrest, Montrose. It’s a wonderful way to spend the evening having fun!

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kudos \ ku·dos  “Stephanie wrote a very nice article [in the December Montrose-Delta edition] and I appreciate your interest in our CABA/VFW project. I have shared the link to the article and your publication among family, colleagues, friends and veterans. FYI, we completed the 2018 event with 33 aircraft. Remarkable!

The unusual clear and calm weather throughout the state was bad for skiing but great for flying.”

- Ken Kline, Colorado Aviation Business Association  “I absolutely love the December issue. Great job! It is just beautiful.

You should all listen to James Taylor’s version of ‘Auld Lang Syne’— the song nobody knows. He does a wonderful version in an authentic accent and it is just yummy!”

- Mary  “Cloie, thanks again for introducing yourself at the Light Up a Life event. Great to meet you in person. Also, nice job on the photos and Stephanie wrote a really nice feature. We appreciate it!”

- Callie Varra, HopeWest

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When the life you planned backfires

By Laverne H. Bardy

I

’m on the computer every day to write. It’s a daily objective that’s easily accomplished, but not without distractions from incoming emails that contain videos of puppies and babies doing adorable things. I’m always compelled to stop what I’m doing and watch. It’s no wonder I don’t get much done.

The videos that particularly hold me in abeyance are those that showcase graceful, athletic octogenarians performing activities that people half their age might find daunting.

They jitterbug at a brisk tempo with supreme agility. They run marathons and scale mountains like mountain goats and rollerblade like fearless teenagers. These inspirational videos point out what I’ve heard so often: Age is merely a state of mind.

While these videos certainly encourage and motivate, mostly, they just piss me off.

Thats because my plan for aging was different from the one I’m living.

I hoped to be a shining example of what our later years should be. I was going to parachute jump and zip line, throw rowdy parties and dance with abandon. I would wear flashy costume jewelry, spike heels and travel the world alone. I looked forward to shrugging off rules and being unconventional. Like those videos, my goal was to galvanize senior couch potatoes into action.

I was well on my way to living that dream when the universe yanked my arm and shouted, “Whoa! Slow down, lady. That ain’t gonna happen.

Time to focus on Plan B.” It wasn’t long before Plan B reared its ugly head and took over. All I could do was watch. Fun was replaced with various levels of pain: debilitating arthritis, two knee replacements, one hip replacement, atrial fibrillation and constant shoulder and neck discomfort.

Plan B required a whole different

mindset. There would be no traveling, rollerblading, bungee jumping or fast dancing. The most physical thing I would do is press the start button on my Jazzy Scooter. I could still throw parties and wear party hats, but I would be more of a spectator than a participant.

It was during this self-pitying period of my life that another type of video captured my attention—videos of severely disabled men and women triumphing over their disabilities and accomplishing tasks far beyond anyone’s belief. Some of them were missing limbs. One young woman was born without the entire lower half of her body.

Watching the spirit and determination of these incredible human beings brought me to my knees. These superheroes had ignored naysayers.

With blind conviction, they forged ahead and made their dreams come true.

I was embarrassed. I hadn’t even attempted some of the activities I assumed I could no longer do. I’d accepted my limitations as the final word.

How dare I whine because this latter part of my life didn’t turn out the way I planned. Wasn’t it enough that I was still here at my age? Wasn’t it fantastic that I had no debilitating illness that confined me to bed? And, even if I couldn’t do all I wanted, it wasn’t as though there weren’t activities I could still enjoy. I may not be able to jitterbug, but I can snap my fingers to the beat, sing out loud and sway in my chair.

So, yes, age is a state of mind—and by “mind” I mean “attitude.”

My father was a God-fearing man.

His response to any question involving the future was always the same: “If we live and we’re well.”

I never knew why he was so seemingly negative. It made sense years later when I came upon a Yiddish proverb, “Man plans and God laughs.”

My father understood that the outcome of any plan is not entirely up to us. ■

kvetch \ kfech  “You always do such a great job each month, and I enjoy seeing what all may be in your newspaper. Regarding ‘A raise in Social Security for 2018: Rejoice or regret?’ [in December’s BEACON], a part had written as “other SS-related figures will also adjust in 2018.” So using your mathematical figures for 2018, this will apply fairly close: 1) Medicare medical insurance will increase from $110 to $134 ($24 deduction); 2) if one has a Part D Medicare prescription drug plan (examples), an increase will show a deduction of $5 to $6, depending on what company is being used. Therefore, adding adjustments of $24, plus $5 to $6, this comes up $29 to $30. The example used was for a 2% (COLA) increase that would give a benefit of $30. Therefore, in reality, one may have a whole $1 increase for 2018, if any at all, or may actually have a reduction. You used the terminology of a whopping increase, but my feeling is a sobbing change made.”

- Art B.

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