November 2019 - Montrose-Delta

JERRY’S LEGACY From service to country, it’s more than just a picnic table.

It’s time to vote for the 2020 BEACON Best! Turn to page 19 to nominate your favorite hot spots!

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Drug prices got your down?

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

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MO NT RO SE -DE LTA

BEST L OCAL

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

2020

LOVED

MONTROSE-DELTA

NOVEMBER 2019

Volume: 5 | Issue: 11

Montrose & Delta’s Magazine for Adults 50+ with over 16,250 Readers

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EDITORIAL COLUMN

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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.

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: Montrose County • Montrose Pavilion Senior Center • Post Office • Starvin’ Arvin’s • Denny’s • MRD Aquatics Center

well, which will come with the January 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 a list of resources and informative articles for them.

Delta County • Bill Heddles Recreation Center • Starvin’ Arvin’s • Delta County Memorial Hospital • Gofer Conoco

BEACON READERS KNOW BEST!

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 for aging

Tell us who stands above the rest with the 2020 BEACON Best Awards! Unfortunately, some businesses treat customer service as if it’s old fashioned or out of style. Recognize those that have earned your trust and your business with this coveted award for superior customer service.

You can vote for your favorite businesses and most-loved hotspots in more than 30 categories as part of this year’s competition. By voting, you enter in a chance to win prizes and gift cards to some of those favorite spots.

Just mail in the ballot on page 19 by December 31, or vote online at www.BeaconSeniorNews. com/beacon-best. Make sure to let them know you’re rooting for them! ■

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

Cloie Sandlin, Managing Editor

IN THIS ISSUE...

Cover Photo: Jerry Paquette’s association with the Ute Indian Museum spans a lifetime.

His generous donation purchased a green picnic table for others to enjoy just like he did as a kid.

5 16

Question of the Month What moments of your life would you relive?

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

6 21

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM |

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

Thank you emails? Texts?

Show your appreciation this holiday through handwritten letters.

NOVEMBER 2019 | EDITORIAL COLUMN | 3

COVER STORY

A man, a picnic table and the museum he loved

Ute Indian Museum celebrates Jerry Paquette’s legacy

By Arlyn Macdonald

J

erold “Jerry” Paquette is a grateful and generous man who shares the gifts of his heart with others. Sometimes the gift is a warm smile, a friendly handshake or a kind word. And sometimes the gift takes another form, such as a round, plastic-coated, green steel picnic table donated to the Ute Indian Museum in Montrose.

FOND MEMORIES

Top: Ute Museum Director CJ Brafford and Jerry Paquette at the dedication ceremony for the first round picnic table he generously donated the funds for.

Items: Embroidered gloves and moccasins made by Utes

There are some places that just speak to the heart and for Paquette that place is the Ute Indian Museum, located at 17253 Chipeta Road. It’s a place that has held Paquette’s heart ever since his first visit at age 3 when his family stopped by on their way to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Although the museum hadn’t been built yet, his family often stopped at the site in the early days, when there was only the spring, two grave sites and lots of sagebrush.

“It was nice to have extra water

4 | COVER STORY | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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for our radiator and to drink,” Paquette recalled.

The family sat among the sagebrush to eat a snack and enjoy the quiet tranquility.

“Both Mom and Dad were born in Colorado, and we often talked about the Utes while we ate,” Paquette said.

Paquette has an old photograph of himself and his two older brothers from 1947 taken on that first trip to the museum with his family.

The siblings are standing in front of the landmark tepee that housed the spring for the nearby farm of Chief Ouray (leader of the Utes) and his wife, Chipeta.

The museum still stands on the 8.65 acres of land that was the homestead of Chief Ouray. The Daughters of the American Revolution purchased the land and donated it for a museum about the Ute Indians in the 1940s. The first building was erected in 1956.

“The first time I saw the museum building I thought it was good for Colorado and good for the Ute tribes,” Paquette said.

It became an important stop to

him when he came home once a year to visit.

THE COLORADAN ENTERTAINER Born in Grand Junction, Paquette graduated from Central High School and then from Mesa Junior College. He went on to the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley to study theater arts. A couple of years into his studies he decided to join the Navy and became a dental technician. He spent five years in the Navy with one year attached to the Marine Corps in Vietnam.

He then returned to Colorado and finished his degree.

After he graduated from the university, Paquette discovered the Army had an entertainment division. For the next 30 years, he helped entertain soldiers and their families all over the world. He remembers the enthusiastic “garage bands” made up of different soldiers that performed.

Paquette spent seven years in Washington D.C. at Army Headquarters as the Music and Theater Director of Worldwide Programs.

His last project, just before 9/11, The Friends recently hosted a was a New Year’s program with dedication ceremony for Paquette’s Jennifer Lopez. gift and to honor him for his life“I’ve met a whole bunch of peotime support of the museum. ple,” Paquette said.

CJ Brafford, the museum’s diAfter 30 years, it was time to rector, smudged the new table with “come home” and he returned sage and offered a blessing for its to Grand Junction to be with his use. She also blessed Paquette for mother, who died three years later. his kind generosity. She has known When Paquette returned to Paquette for the last 10 years, visGrand Junction, he was still very iting with him often when he came active in theater including the to the museum.

Broadway Theater League tourPaquette was also awarded a ing groups brought to the City by Certificate of Appreciation by the Mary Price. He was Harve Presnell’s Friends of the Ute Indian Museum. stand-in during Paquette has the local filming always been very of the “Unsinksentimental about able Molly Brown” the Ute Indian and became good Museum and has a friends with Debbie good deal of fond Reynolds. He also memories of his visworked backstage its there. It became when Imogene an important part Coca appeared in of his life and filled Grand Junction. in the gaps in the He remembered land’s history. escorting her and “The museum is her giant black poohistory that WestPaquette sports his USO dle around Grand ern Colorado can hat from his entertainment Junction High be proud of. It has career in the Army.

School while she was always been importwalking her dog. ant to me to have a “I’ve had a wonderful career and bit of quiet time on Ouray and Chihave touched the lives of thousands peta’s ground,” Paquette mused. of soldiers and their families. I’ve His legacy and fondness for the been very fortunate to come in Ute Indian Museum will live on and contact with so many wonderful he will continue to touch the lives people,” he said. of many new people as they sit at his picnic table and enjoy the muA GREEN PICNIC TABLE seum grounds. They may read the Paquette’s association with the Ute dedication plate affixed to the table Indian Museum has spanned his and become a part of Paquette’s lifetime, and when he found out connection to the history and land about the picnic table program the that he loves. ■ Friends of the Ute Indian Museum were sponsoring, he remembered how many times his family sat among the sagebrush to eat.

“Let’s do it. Let’s kick it in and get the first one done,” Paquette said.

His generous donation of $600 for the first round picnic table sparked the donation of a second one, this one an ADA-compliant picnic table by Bill and Kathy Porter of Montrose.

Question Month of the

Compiled by Arlyn Macdonald

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

“The first hours after I gave birth to my kids. The first days, weeks, and months of their lives, they get lost.”

-Pat Andrews

“My trip to Venezuela. I would hang on to my friend Nancy, who disappeared from our group to be searched by customs.”

-Jolene Wurst

“Finding the biological father I didn’t know I had and finding another brother I never knew I had.”

-Marsha Norton

“I would undo the moment I heard my husband had stage 4 small cell lung cancer.”

-Sherry Kammerer

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NOVEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY | 5

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Friendsgiving and We Welcome You! solitary celebrations Joyfully, to Love all, to Serve all, and to share Jesus Christ with the world

Make the most of Thanksgiving Day

•••

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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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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

BEACON SENIOR NEWS 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

• 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.

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FUN & GAMES

CROSSWORD

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Turn to page 18 for your puzzle answers 8 | FUN & GAMES | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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ACROSS

1. Look ___, I’m

Sandra Dee 5. Apply powder to oneself 9. Flying Pan 14. The Tower of Pisa

does this 15. Watched intently 16. Winged 17. Shoulder belt

for cartridges 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-___

ASK THE OLD BAG

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 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 ■

ASK THE OLD BAG

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD

BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

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

Seven years without a cold?

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 | ASK THE OLD BAG |

9

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

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 Now available 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. ■

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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

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LAUGHING MATTERS

Delta’s

Month

ly Mag

BASEBALL IN THE YARD

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

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!” ■

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

Volume: 31 | Issue: 11

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?”

ose &

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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?”

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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!”

RO MONT

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.

Se

aboard

ves VA program helps vets shed pounds and shape up

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

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Know your veteran benefits How to avoid getting scammed as a senior veteran

VETER

RESOU

VETER ANS OR

Delta County Veterans Services...........

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Van

Montrose County Veteran Services Of

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

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

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

VA Montrose Clinic...............................

Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans..

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. 14 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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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

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

VETERANS DAY EV NOVEMBER 9

Stars & Stripes Military Ball Celebrate the veterans in your communi and Stripes Military Ball, held in the ballr in Cedaredge. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. an Café. Event is free to veterans and $25 f Cathy at 856-7522. Tickets can be purch Park in Cedaredge.

NOVEMBER 12

Veterans Day at the Senior Center Come to the Montrose Senior Center at see the indoor programs and resources ities that are completely unique for vete families are welcome.

FREE ENTRANCE TO NATIONAL

In honor of Veterans Day, the National P to enter National Parks, including the Co Canyon of the Gunnison.

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Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers all mi to Colorado’s State Parks on Veterans D active duty military personnel and their f discharge papers, DD214, reserve or ret a Veterans Administration, Veterans of F The ID should be presented at the parkin vehicle will be admitted for free. ■

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ity at Cedaredge’s seventh annual Stars room next to The Pondy on Main Street nd is catered by Cedaredge Creekside for adults. Reservations are a must. Call hased in advance at Shady Creek RV

t 1 p.m. to celebrate Veterans Day and available, along with the outdoor activerans in Montrose. All veterans and their

L PARKS

Park Service waives fees for the public olorado National Monument and Black

DO STATE PARKS

ilitary men and women free admission Day. To obtain free admission, veterans, families must show a valid active ID, tired military ID card, or an ID card from Foreign Wars or the American Legion. ng gate. All other passengers in the

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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

Tips for seniors

➊

Don’t give personal

information over the phone feel pressured ➋ Don’t to act immediately N Consult a friend or O I T A local VA office OPERVeterans ➌ your Get references and ➍ t

ask questions c e t o r P ➎ Do your research

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

15

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-

16 | 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 Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. ■

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humbled by their sacrifice. Today and every day, we proudly salute BEACON SENIOR NEWS veterans.

Words can’t say just how much we America’s

BEACON readers know BEST

appreciate and respect our country’s veterans for their service. As we Courage, hard work, celebrate Veterans Day, we would Tell us who stands above the rest with dedication... like to take a moment to express themen 2020 BEACON Best awards 682 1725 Road • Delta our deepest thanks to the brave 874-9988 • 874-8633 and women who have served and estern Colorado’s senior vember and December issues. Mail 105 S.E. Frontier, Suite F continue to serve in our military.population We is growing, it back to us or vote online at www.

Cedaredge recognize their courage, hard work causing businesses to step up their BeaconSeniorNews.com.

856-3232 and dedication to our nation’s values, game in appealing to these loyal 209 Bridge St. • Hotchkiss All right, I voted. What next? customers way of life and security, and we areand getting them to 872-3151 Make sure to let your favorite places fall in love with their products and our obituaries humbled byonline their sacrifice.

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311 Grand Ave. • Paonia know you’re rooting for them, then taylorfuneralservice.com services. and every day, we proudly salute 527-3836 pick up February’s BEACON to read Unfortunately, customer service To All of Our Nation’s Veterans, ThankAmerica’s You Happy Veteran’s veterans.Day! .taylorfuneralservice.com about the winners.

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isn’t always what it used to be with some businesses treating it as if it’s out of style. Here at the BEACON, country’s veterans for their service. As we celebrate Veteran’s Day, we do our best to assure our readwe would like to take a moment to express our deepest thanks to the ers that honesty and courtesy are 1725 Road • Delta brave men and women who have served682and continue to serve in our 874-9988 • 874-8633 alive and well. In fact, they’re often military. We recognize their courage, hard work and dedication to our 105 S.E. Frontier, Suite F what motivates many businesses to nation’s values, way of life and security, and Cedaredge we are humbled by their excel and become even better.

856-3232 sacrifice. Today and every day, we proudly salute America’s veterans.

It’s time for you to spread the 209 Bridge St. • Hotchkiss word and recognize those organi872-3151 View our online obituaries zations that have earned your trust 311 Grand Ave. • Paonia at taylorfuneralservice.com 527-3836 and business with the 2020 BEACON Best awards. www.taylorfuneralservice.com This coveted award acknowledges an elite group of your most loved locales that are selected for their people, products and services View our online obituaries at that make your life easier and more taylorfuneralservice.com enjoyable. This year’s competition allows you to vote in more than 30 categories. By voting, you’re Delta • 874-9988 | Cedaredge 856-3232 entered to win prizes and gift cards Hotchkiss • 872-3151 | Paonia • 527-3836 to some of your favorite spots.

Words can’t say just how much we appreciate and respect our

CONTEST FAQ

f Kick-otfm as is r h C to mall & S ss Busine ay Saturd

READERS

Novemb 30th er

Parade of Lights

Parade starts at 6pm Theme: Christmas Around the World

Pictures with Santa

Located in Chamber Building 3-5:30pm

Food and Shopping in Wells Fargo Parking Lot from 4 - 8pm

Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:45pm in Wells Fargo Parking Lot! For more information please call the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce @ 970-874-8616.

18 | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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Who can vote?

You can! Just pick up the BEACON and fill out the ballot inside the No-

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 February’s BEACON, but we’ll contact you for a photo with your award prior to publication. ■

Answers from page 8

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

MONTROSE-DELTA

BEST L OCAL

LOVED

2020

OFFICIAL BALLOT Photocopies will not be accepted

Best Hair Salon______________________________________ Best Real Estate Agent_______________________________ Best Art Gallery_____________________________________ Best Fruit Stand _____________________________________ Best Local Festival___________________________________ Best Local Band/Musician_____________________________ Best Pharmacy______________________________________ Best Hardware Store_________________________________ Best Clothing Store__________________________________

Share the LOVE!

Help the BEACON determine the best and most-loved hotspots for boomers and seniors in Montrose & Delta Counties. 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 of your favorite places.

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

Vote online: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Mail your ballot to: The BEACON, PO Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 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 Place to Buy Gifts________________________________ Best Second Hand Store______________________________ Best Optical Store___________________________________ Best Pet Supply/Services______________________________ Best Insurance Agent________________________________ Best Auto Dealership_________________________________ Best Auto Repair____________________________________ Best Garden Nursery_________________________________ Best Heating and Cooling Service______________________ Best Landscaping/Lawn Care Service____________________ 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____________________________________

Phone:______________________________________________

Best Health Club____________________________________

Email:_______________________________________________

Best Outdoor Gear__________________________________ WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

19

BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT

Senior Companions share the best things in life

By Arlyn Macdonald

R

egion 10’s new Senior Companion Program connects active adults age 55 and older with adults age 60 and older who may be coping with physical problems, live alone, have lost their ability to drive or feel isolated and alone. The two become companions who share interests, develop a friendship and have fun together on a weekly basis.

“Loneliness and isolation are public health issues,” said Meg Nagel, the program’s director. She added that they also affect mental, emotional and physical health and

are a major cause of depression and cognitive decline in people.

“By introducing two seniors—one who has time on his or her hands and the other who needs some support— the Senior Companion Program builds friendships and helps both participants lead more satisfying and independent lives,” Nagel said.

The program gives active seniors an opportunity to give back to others in a way that makes a difference in someone’s life who may be homebound, frail, socially isolated, have no family, or just needs a bit

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of friendly support. Volunteer companions can also offer caregivers needed respite time.

Host companions often gain a new outlook on life as they are again able to enjoy friendly visits, and have company that helps them with grocery shopping, errands, or going with them to a doctor appointments. It’s difficult for many seniors to do these activities when they can no longer drive, and it makes a difference to have someone when they feel lonely.

NEW FRIENDSHIPS Cathy White discovered the program when her parents were in their 90s and still living on their own.

“When I first heard about the program, I couldn’t wait to tell my parents about it,” said White. “We scheduled an interview with Meg Nagel and a few weeks later their new companion came to call.”

White found that the companions were more than just caregivers to her parents, but friends as well.

“For my parents, it’s always fun to find a new friend and there was plenty for them to talk about. Each week they did something different.

The volunteer companion took them to the grocery store and to do other errands or they went out to lunch or coffee. Sometimes they simply stayed home and talked,” she added.

As a caregiver for her parents, White was grateful to have some time off when the volunteer companions came to visit.

“Those days were also a day off for me and I felt comfortable knowing that someone else was there to spend time with them,” White said.

“When the time came for my parents to make the move to assisted living, their volunteer companion came to visit them there as well.”

Christene Ingram, a volunteer companion, has two ladies she visits each week.

“I am so happy to have my health and be able to help other people,” she said. “I have a lady in Delta and

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

we go out every week for ice cream and a drive in the country.”

Her other host companion lives in Montrose and has no living relatives. Ingram accompanies her to doctor’s appointments for support and encouragement.

“Just to have someone be with her is so important because she felt so alone,” Ingram explained.

Ingram also qualifies to receive a small stipend for being a volunteer companion.

“The stipend is very low, but the extra money is significant to me,” said Ingram.

Ingram, who has volunteered since March, is touched by the humbleness and appreciation of her host companions.

“The program is working extremely well for me. I have no negatives,” she said.

GET INVOLVED Volunteer companions with limited income may receive a stipend for their volunteer hours and mileage compensation. Becoming a volunteer companion requires training and a screening process that includes a background and reference check. Those who use their cars for transportation of host companions must have proof of auto insurance and receive supplemental auto insurance through the program.

Seniors interested in becoming host companions may apply through Volunteers of America Options Counselors through Region 10. The program is free. ■

VOLUNTEER COMPANIONS NEEDED More volunteer companions are needed to help the Host Companions who are waiting for supportive new friends.

Contact Meg Nagel at 765-3123 or meg@region10.net for more information about how to become a volunteer companion or host companion.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

What happened to thank you notes?

By Melanie Wiseman

I

f you’re like me, you’ve noticed something missing in your mailbox the past couple decades.

Mixed among the bills, ads and junk mail was the occasional hand-addressed envelope that stood out like a special treasure.

You’d drop all other mail and excitedly open it first—the personal thank you note. Remember those days? What used to be a token of gratitude and thoughtfulness is now a thing of the past.

With the advent of email, text messaging and social media, our communication has become impersonal and shallow. “Thank you” has been abbreviated to “Thx” all for the sake of time. Where one email looks like the next, the small effort behind a hand-written note gives a personal, thoughtful touch and tells the receiver they matter.

Also unlike texts or emails, you can hold personal thank you notes in your hands, reliving a happy moment or recapturing an embrace. While emails and texts are usually read and deleted, thank you notes have lasting value—sitting on counters like a generous smile that can be read and reread.

Some people I know just naturally get it. They understand that sending a personal note is the right thing to do. It’s a way of returning kindness with kindness. To others, writing a thank you note is a foreign concept. I’ve heard many friends comment about not even knowing if wedding, birthday or baby shower gifts have been received due to lack of acknowledgment.

Where have we gone

wrong? Why do so few people send thank you notes anymore?

kudos \ ku • dos  “Such a good job on the presentation of my Halloween and ‘Twi-

The most common excuse is not having the materials at hand. I follow one blogger who said she’s considering giving a box of thank you cards and a roll of stamps as future wedding gifts.

Another excuse is not having time. While hand-written notes may take a minute or two longer than sending off a text, you can’t put a value on their benefits.

Some people think it’s the new normal, but some of us think it’s lazy and rude. It’s all about priorities.

Studies show that penning a thank you note is a good way to lift the receiver’s spirits as well as your own. Showing gratitude is good for self-esteem and benefits your physical and psychological health.

Handwritten, personal notes speak volumes—they can strengthen relationships or turn an acquaintance into a friend.

Thank you notes are for more than just receiving a gift. It warms my heart when I receive thank you notes from dear friends for unsolicited help at a garage sale, a fun evening at dinner or for just being their friend. No email could ever take the place of that personal touch.

Is there hope for reviving this intimate act of appreciation? As seniors, are we being good role models of supporting a lost etiquette by writing thank you notes ourselves? Modeling gratitude is one of the most special gifts we can give children. The impact of living by example will cause thankfulness to grow in their hearts.

Every day can be special when

you count your blessings and cultivate gratitude, not just at Thanksgiving.

By sending a personal thank you. ■

light Zone’ stories [in October’s BEACON]! No wonder you win NAMPA awards. Always proud to be in the BEACON.” - Randal Hill

 “Thank you so much for including our Ridgway thrift shop in September’s publication (“Hunting for treasure: Tips, hot spots and more for the local thrifter” by Carole Ann McKelvey). I’ll keep you posted about our upcoming activities and events.”

- Lu Anne Tyrrell, Second Chance Humane Society

 “Thanks for sharing our work through this great article (“Pro-

tecting 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 hun-

gry 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? 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.”

Rosemont BAPTIST CHURCH

Turning Montrose Around

S Townsend Ave E Niagara Rd

RosemontBaptist.org

FAMILY Sunday

FELLOWSHIP

Bible Study (all ages) 9:15 am Worship Service 10:45 am

COMMUNITY 1598 E Niagara Rd Montrose, CO 81401 Office: 970.249.4887

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

21

CALENDAR

CALENDAR

November 1

Virginia Blackstock’s 65th art show Come see the nationally renowned watercolorist at the Montrose Center for the Arts for her 65th solo art show from 5-7 p.m.

For details, call 238-0665.

November 1-2

Annual Hobby and Craft Bazaar Peruse over 100 tables of handcrafted items, jewelry, clothing and more at the Montrose Woman’s Club’s annual fundraiser for local charities. Held at the Montrose County Fairgrounds Friday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., the event also features hourly door prizes and free admission.

November 9

Camelot Gardens Open House Enjoy treats, sales and specials, prizes and more from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Camelot Gardens, 16612 S. Townsend Ave. in Montrose, followed by wine, cheese, cider and live music from 5-7 p.m.

November 14

Memory Support Open House Enjoy guided tours of Volunteers of America’s warm, welcoming Memory Support neighborhood while learning about its exceptional programs, specialized services and gracious amenities. Discover Valley Manor Care Center’s

person-centered approach to care and explore available resources from 2-4 p.m. RSVP at 249-9634.

November 16

Ragtime Jazz Concert Listen to ragtime jazz pianist Bob Milne at a concert benefiting the Montrose Center for the Arts. The concert will be held at the United Methodist Church in Montrose at 7 p.m. Cost is $20 for adults, and tickets can be bought at the Art Center or at www.mc4arts.net.

November 18th

Medicare changes in 2020 Senior Resources Consultant Marilynn Huseby leads a discussion of 2020 deductibles and co-payment changes. Learn how the recent Medicare hospital benefits and designations along with the use of advanced beneficiary notices from providers affect your health coverage benefits next year. Meet at 1 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion’s Senior Center.

November 19

Gang awareness seminar A law enforcement representative will present on gang awareness at Montrose Neighborhood Watch’s meeting at Centennial Meeting Room, 422 S. First St., from 6-7 p.m. Call 901-5876 for details.

November 23

Weavers Guild Show & Sale Admire handwoven and handspun items at the San Juan Weavers

22 | CALENDAR | NOVEMBER 2019 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Guild’s 42nd annual show and sale from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Montrose Center for the Arts. It’s free to the public and offers sales on an array of items for home, gifts and personal use as well as handson learning opportunities. Call 214-1114 for details.

merce for photos with Santa, or shop local for holiday gifts.

November 23

Christmas by Candlelight Valley Symphony Orchestra and Chorus will perform beautiful selections of seasonal music starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion, culminating with selections from Handel’s “Messiah.” It’s the perfect holiday celebration for the whole family! For information and tickets, visit www.valleysymphony. net.

Loss to Suicide Survivor Day The Suicide Prevention Task Force and CASA of the 7th Judicial District supports those who have lost a loved one to suicide with a day of remembrance from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at CASA’s offices, 147 N. Townsend in Montrose. There will be a light brunch and survivor video. Feel free to chat, cry and just be with each other. Call 9011595 for details.

November 29-30

Basement Boutique craft show Basement Boutique is hosting its 45th annual craft show and sale at the Montrose Pavilion Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Browse locally handcrafted gifts for all ages, and bring canned goods in support of Sharing Ministries.

November 30

Delta Parade of Lights Celebrate Christmas around the world at 6 p.m. on Main Street in Delta with the annual Parade of Lights. Then, head over to the Delta Area Chamber of Com-

November 29

Montrose Parade of Lights Lights and cheer illuminate Main Street at 5:30 p.m.

November 30

December 5-8

Weehawken Dance presents “The Nutcracker” Talented local dancers usher in the holiday season at the Montrose Pavilion with performances of Weehawken Art’s annual production of “The Nutcracker.” The performance features over 120 dancers in each show (ages 2 1/2 through adult), in a production that is as lavish as Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece itself. There will be matinée and evening performances on Friday and Saturday and a matinée on Sunday, plus a special performance of “Nutcracker Sweets” on Thursday. For details, call 319-0150. ■

FUN AFTER 50

NOVEMBER 18

To register for these programs, call 249-7705 or visit www.montroserec.com

EDUCATION Have lunch at noon and listen to educational presentations at 1 p.m. at the Montrose Senior Center.

Lunch is $5. Call 901-9914 the day before to make lunch reservations.

NOVEMBER 5

Introduction to Night Sky Photography Mike Marino will instruct beginners with a slideshow presentation of western night sky and landscape images. He will also introduce tools, techniques and planning used in photographing our night skies.

What Medicare Changes Could Affect You in 2020?

Senior Resource Consultant Marilynn Huseby leads a discussion of 2020 deductibles and co-payment changes. Learn how the recent Medicare hospital benefits and designations along with the use of advanced beneficiary notices from providers next year affect your health coverage benefits.

TRIPS & TOURS NOVEMBER 7 & 8

Hike Gunnison Bluffs This moderate 5-mile loop hike takes you to where Fathers Dominguez and Escalante traveled. Oneday hike repeats. Meet at the senior center at 8 a.m. Cost is $19. Bring a sack lunch.

NOVEMBER 14

Aeolian Acres, Blacklight Studios, Sanborn Studio tours Aeolian Acres hosts artist residencies on 22 acres. Blacklight Studios is a multicultural arts and healing center reclaiming indigenous ways through handcrafts, community circles and events. Artist Jen Sanborn’s work is primarily oil paintings

of life in the North Fork Valley.

Meet at the senior center at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $21. Bring money for lunch.

DECEMBER 1

Rockapella Community Concert Rockapella shows every audience the raw power of pure vocal talent and originality. Meet at the field house at 11:30 a.m. for a trip to Grand Junction. Cost is $46. Bring money for lunch at Zoup! Register

by November 1.

CLASSES & CLINICS TUESDAYS

Hatha Yoga Level 1 Class takes place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the field house summit room. Cost is $36 for the session (November 5-26), or $11 to drop in. Mats and props provided.

WEDNESDAYS

Folk Dancing No partner necessary. Learn three or four dances per session. Wear comfortable, smooth sole shoes.

Class is from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the senior center dining room. Cost is $40 per session (October 2-

November 20) or $7 to drop in.

MONDAYS & FRIDAYS

Tai Chi Chuan for Seniors Build strength, improve health and flexibility, reduce stress and relax your mind. Cost is $118 per session (November 11-December 18) or $13 to drop in. Class is from 11 a.m. to noon at the field house summit room.

MUSIC & DANCE MONDAY NIGHT OUT

Enjoy a potluck, line dancing, Latin dancing and games from 4-8 p.m. the third Monday of the month.

Bring a dish to share. Cost is $2.

• Latin Dancing: 6:15-8 p.m. on the third Monday in the senior center crafts room.

• Line Dancing: 4-6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth Mondays of the month, and 6-8 p.m. on the third Mondays. Cost is $2.

GAMES GAMES AT THE SENIOR CENTER

Play Cribbage, Bunco, billiards, poker, bingo, bridge and more all month long. Games cost $1 to play.

For schedule, call 252-4884. ■

Events take place at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 Palmer St. in Delta, unless otherwise noted.

SPECIAL EVENTS NOVEMBER 11

Free admission for veterans Veterans receive free admission to Bill Heddles Recreation Center all day long.

DECEMBER 7

To register for these programs, call 874-0923 or visit www.cityofdelta.net

Holiday Craft Fair Free craft fair with more than 79 vendors from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 874-0923.

DECEMBER 14

Santa’s Helper’s Fun Run/Walk Celebrate Christmas with a fun run

starting at 8:30 a.m. Register in advance to get your Santa Suit—only $10 per person or one unwrapped toy for ages 2-12.

GAMES • Duplicate Bridge - Mondays, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per week.

• Needles: Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $8 for 14-week session.

• Pinochle: Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m.

Cost is $8 for 14-week session.

• Dominoes: Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.

Cost is $8 for 14-week session.

• Party Bridge: Thursdays, 1-4 p.m. Cost is $8 for 14-week session.

CLASSES NOVEMBER 8 & DECEMBER 13

Bob Ross Painting Classes Paint a happy cloud from 9:30 a.m.5 p.m. Reservations required. Call 618-3639 to reserve your spot. ■

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 | FUN AFTER 50 |

23

BEACON BITS

BEACON BITS

ta-Montrose Community Concert Association Concert Series. Also included in the season are Terry Barber Trio, Ty Gallenbeck (magician), and the Classic Nashville Roadshow. Season tickets will be available at the door for $45 for adults, $15 for students, or $95 for families. For more information, visit www.deltamontroseconcerts.com or call 835-4480 or 249-3735

Manuel Delgado: New rehab director joins Delta Hospital Delta County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) is excited to welcome Manuel Delgado as the new rehabilitation director. Delgado oversees both in- and outpatient rehabilitation for the hospital.

He earned his undergraduate degree in biological science and anatomy and neurobiology from Colorado State University and went on to receive his graduate degree in physical therapy from the University of Colorado Health Sciences in Denver.

Delgado said he is excited to be bringing his knowledge to DCMH by starting community-based programs focusing on different areas, specifically youth sports and wellness programs that can help anyone in the aging process. For details, call 874-2291.

Delta-Montrose Community Concerts 2019-2020 season lineup If you like a mix of jazz, pop and sing-alongs, you won’t want to miss Prime Time Trio (PTT) led by Mr. Piano—Bobby van Duesen—and featuring Steve Pikal on the bass and Tony Martin on the drums. PTT will be at the Delta Performing Arts Center on Thursday, November 21, at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. and single admission tickets are $20 for adults or $5 for students. This energetic pops trio is the second concert of the 2019-2020 Del-

Montrose Connect Trail Project nears completion; grand opening postponed until spring Anticipated completion is early November. In partnership with the City of Montrose and numerous other entities, this exciting project will add 2.25 miles of 10-foot concrete trail with a 2-foot soft surface shoulder and two underpasses under the town’s two busiest roads: Highways 550 and 90. The southern section that connects to the Community Recreation Center will be completed soon! The October 26 grand opening celebration has been POSTPONED until spring 2020.

Operation Christmas Child drop-off locations Multiple locations throughout western Colorado will begin collecting shoe box 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), local 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 nearest drop off locations are: • Calvary Chapel Montrose, 2201 S. Townsend Ave. • Ridgway Community Church, 685 W. Sherman, Ridgway • Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A. St., Delta • Paonia Friends Church, 409 Third St.

24 | BEACON BITS | NOVEMBER 2019 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

SUPPORT GROUPS • Delta Diabetes Group meets monthly from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on the second Monday at Grand Mesa Oncology & Rheumatology’s Crag Crest room. For details, call 874-7681.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES • Sharing Ministries Food Bank seeks dedicated volunteers for three hours, one day a week.

Some lifting involved. Must enjoy serving community. Inquire at 49.

First St. in Montrose. Call 2408385.

• Senior CommUnity Meals needs volunteer delivery drivers and dining room helpers to help elderly citizens in Delta and Montrose counties. For details, visit www. seniorcommunitymeals.org or call 874-7662.

• Volunteer drivers are needed to deliver meals to low-income and frail seniors. Drivers’ backgrounds are checked and they must provide references. Call 249-8804.

• Friends of the Montrose Library is looking for volunteers to fill several open board positions. Meetings are held once a month and include evaluating program funding, planning book

sales and attending to other business. For details, call 846-5287.

•M useum of the West seeks volunteer tour guides to bring the past to life for visitors. Flexible schedule. Training provided.

Call 240-3400 to schedule your interview.

•F oster 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 or older; those able to volunteer 9 hours per week or more and meet income requirements can receive $100-$400 per month in non-taxable stipends. Background check required. Call 298-9091 to apply.

•P artners Mentoring Youth is seeking adults who enjoy art and would like to mentor aspiring young artists. Adults must make a six month commitment and are supported by case managers and art workshops. For details, call 249-1116 or visit www. partners-west.org for a mentor application.

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

• Black Canyon Barbershop

Montrose Memorial Hospital (MMH) honors medical leaders at recent fall clinic At the 48th annual Fall Clinics inSeptember, the medical community recognized Dr. Thomas (Lou) Dwyer and community member Ken Jenks for their outstanding contributions to MMH, the community and the medical staff. Jenks is a recently retired physician assistant who practiced for more than 15 years at the Basin Clinic in Naturita. He and his wife, Lois, continue caring for others as volunteer care providers along the Juarez/El Paso border. Dr. Dwyer was selected as “Physician of the Year” based on his ongoing contribution to quality medical care, medical staff and hospital activities, community service activities and years of service. Dwyer has practiced with Western Slope Orthopaedics and at Montrose Memorial Hospital for 18 years.

BEACON BITS Chorus is looking for those who want to sing four-part in an a cappella barbershop music style.

Practices are from 7-8:30 p.m.

Thursdays at the Olathe United Methodist Church. Call 216-3800.

• 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 details, call 240-1881.

• Citizens Climate Lobby meets at 6:30 p.m. November 4 at the Montrose Library’s meeting room. For more information, call 240-9146 or email montrose@ citizensclimatelobby.org.

• Crafternoon members knit and crochet projects, which they donate to various charities, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on the first, second and third Wednesdays of the month in the Montrose library meeting room. Supplies are provided, but yarn donations are always welcome. Experienced crafters will help beginners. Call 249-9656 for details.

• Columbine Quilters meets monthly at 9 a.m. on the first Saturday at the Meadowlark Senior Apartments in Montrose for show and tell, fellowship and refreshments. Visitors are always welcome. For details, call 4623849.

• Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will have a regular dance on Saturday night, November 2 from 7-9 p.m., in the Bill Heddles Recreation Center aerobics room, 531 N. Palmer St. in Delta. Dancer admission is $6.

Non-dancers can come for free and learn about upcoming winter classes. For details, call 773-4495.

• Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado meets monthly at 9 a.m. on the third Thursdays in November and December (fourth Thursdays the rest of the year) in the Pioneer Room of Friendship Hall at the Montrose County

Fairgrounds. Call 417-4842 for meeting details.

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

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY M.A. SMITH ASSISTANT DIRECTOR KEVIN COHENOUR

• Montrose Area Woodturners meets monthly from 9 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday at 520 Collins Way in Montrose.

Call 986-2550 or email lvcribbs@ charter.net for details.

A touching and thought provoking story of loss of the “old west” and an old ranchers inability to change in a rapidly changing world.

Through humor, wisecracks and quick come-backs, local playwright M.A. Smith has crafted a highly-entertaining and moving story of

•M ontrose Elks host bingo at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr. Proceeds benefit local charities.

Fridays, November 8, 15 & 22 at 7:30pm

•G iving Club of Montrose meets quarterly at 5:30 p.m. at The Bridges of Montrose. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. For membership information, email giving clubofmontrose@gmail.com.

family, aging, loss, and hidden hurts in Tucker Falls.

Saturdays, November 9, 16 & 23 at 7:30pm Sundays, November 10 & 17 at 2pm

Play

Canyon Cleaners & Shirt Laundry

• Montrose Neighborhood Watch Group meets monthly at 6 p.m. every third Tuesday at Centennial Meeting Room behind City Hall.

New Watch Groups are formed and guest speakers alert the public to safety issues. Contact Chris at 901-5876 for details.

•M ontrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances from 7:30-11 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at the Montrose Pavilion. Dancers of all ages are welcome. Bring a snack to share. Cost is $5. Call 252-7172.

•S ons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at 1:30 p.m. on November 9 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction for a traditional potluck turkey dinner. Please bring readyto-serve sides, salads and fruit or dessert. 2020 board and officer elections will follow, in addition to an annual salute to veterans and silent auction of gently used treasures. Call 245-5649 or visit www. vestafjelllodge.org for details. ■

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

25

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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.

EVENTS Montrose Elks Bingo Tuesday Nights 6:30 p.m.

Main bingo packs include five regular games and three progressive games worth up to $500, $1,199 and $15,000. For a great time filled with smiles and laughter, be sure to join us every Tuesday at the Elks, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr., Montrose. Funds raised support local charities.

WANTED TO BUY Mobile oxygen concentrator FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT THE

Looking for a mobile oxygen concentrator. 970-778-9429 leave message.

FOR SALE Oops puppies for sale.

Purebred, but not registered Australian shepherds. Red merles $250; black and whites $175. Text 9019364 for more info.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

HELP WANTED

Medical Cannabis Certification

Cannabis treats arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines, Parkinson’s, MS, cancer, glaucoma, PTSD, etc.

GJ - Thursday 11/21 Rifle - Wednesday 11/20 Wendy Zaharko, MD, 970-319-0652, z@alumni.princeton.edu. Your local Western Slope cannabis physician since 2009. Affordable rates.

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.

WE’RE HIRING! The BEACON Senior News is growing and we’re looking for talented folks who want to grow with us!

We’re hiring for the following positions: FREELANCE WRITERS ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES PHOTO JOURNALISTS Send your letter and resume to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Creative folks, don’t forget to send samples of your work!

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Love the BEACON? Visit us online!

Our award-winning website has: More fascinating stories!

More great photos!

More exciting events!

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Every Day is Bill of Rights Day At Colorow Care Center, our residents are family.

Resident’s Bill of Rights Right to Be tReated with Respect & dignity Right to pRivacy Right to paRticipate in decisions

It’s your life.

We’re here to help you live it.

855 S. Hwy 50 Business Loop Olathe, CO 81425 www.vivage.com/Colorow

The only Eden Alternative Certified Community on the Western Slope ®

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

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

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I have been a patient for four years or more and I recommend this agency to everyone.

Thank you to all of the nurses for the patience and care they provide to me.

- Mary Ann

At Home Health of Western Colorado, we’re a Medicare/Medicaidcertified home health care agency – a friendly and experienced team of nurses, rehab therapists and home health aides dedicated to providing your individualized health care needs with compassion and empathy.

Services offered by Home Health of Western Colorado include: • Skilled nurse on call 24 hours/day • Home health aide assistance with daily activities such as dressing, grooming and bathing • Pain management, wound care and IV infusion therapy • Disease and medication management • Pediatric care • Physical, occupational and speech therapy • Medical social worker • Diabetes management and education • Lab testing and finger stick INRs • Coordination of additional community services

Call today for more information (970)-240-0139

Volunteers of America® Home Health of Western Colorado

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

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“When I came to Colorow a year ago, I was broken and lost.

They accepted me for who I was then. Today, I’m loved and cared for and able to help others.” - Dan

“

“After speaking with the administrator here, we came up with a plan for me to thrive in my new home at Colorow. I have the freedom to come and go as I please. I go to my brother’s orchard close by or assist in the art classes at the high school.” - Jim

300 North Cascade, Suite T9, Montrose, CO 81401 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | NOVEMBER 2019 |

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