BEACON Mesa County 032018

MARCH 2018

Vol. 32

No. 3

Mesa County’s Monthly Newspaper for Adults 50+. Over 28,350 Readers.

Create a Legacy and money 2018

time LOCAL guide to giving your

FREE INS IDE

A shelter pet’s hero

Elaine Johnson-Craig devotes her life to homeless pets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society Photo by Melanie Wiseman

Locally Your Guide to Giving Advertising Team

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Visit us on the web at m www.BeaconSeniorNews.co

Working ’round the clock Photo by Cloie Sandlin

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www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

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MARCH 2018

EDITORIAL

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Even we make mistakes

W

e really don’t like it when we make mistakes, but we’re lucky to have readers who watch out for one another and keep us on our toes.

We received several calls last month from friends and customers of Lois McGary and her charming diner, Lois’ Place, pointing out an unfortunate error in February’s BEACON Best results. While McGary was recognized in the story as our readers’ choice for Best Place for Breakfast, the ballot results still reflected last year’s winner.

We apologize to Lois and her faithful customers for the error and to BEACON readers for the confusion.

“Mom’s Believe It or Not Recipe Book” We also received calls from readers wanting to know where they can purchase a copy of Connie Martinez’ book, “Mom’s Believe It or Not Recipe Book,” which was featured in our February issue. You can find it at Grand Valley Books or Crystal Books in downtown Grand Junction, or order directly from Connie by calling 241-5753 or 216-6524. Books are $25 each.

Create a Legacy I’m excited about this year’s Create a Legacy, your annual guide to giving locally, which you’ll find in this month’s paper. This special section is packed with stories about volunteering and planned giving and features inspirational stories about people

Learn about Estate Planning and more at our Free Educational Workshops!

The Basics of Medicaid and Other Common Long Term Care Planning Ideas v Grand Junction: March 22nd, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Readers chose Lois’ Place as the Best Place for Breakfast in this year’s BEACON Best contest. who have devoted their time and money to support local causes. Learn more about area nonprofits, their mission and how your gift of time, money or talents can impact future generations.

Celebrate age at BeaconFest on April 19 BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair is an annual event where our community comes together to celebrate age.

This year’s show will be Thursday, April 19, from 9 a.m-3 p.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center in downtown Grand Junction. BeaconFest features an exciting lineup of entertainment, free food, lively seminars and informational booths from local vendors displaying their senior-related products and talking about their services. Admission is free!

A few vendor booths remain Don’t miss this opportunity to personally market your products and services at the largest mature lifestyle show in Colorado. Call us at 2438829 for information about being a vendor at this year’s BeaconFest. ■

Cloie Sandlin Editor, BEACON Senior News

(Held in our office at 1250 E. Sherwood Drive) Do you have questions about long-term care and Medicaid? Don’t wait until there is a crisis to learn about your options! Approximately 70% of all people over the age of 65 will need some form of long term care during their lifetime, according to recent government figures. This means there’s a high likelihood you or one of your loved ones may need care, and the cost of care is likely to continue to rise. Join us to learn about the basics of Medicaid including eligibility criteria, myths about Medicaid, common pitfalls, as well as other planning options and payment sources including private pay, long-term care insurance, Medicare, and more. Sign up today!

Registration is Required for Workshops: Sign up by calling (970) 243-8250, or on our website: www.brownandbrownpc.com/workshopcalendar There you can also view the full schedule of upcoming workshops & presentations.

Experienced & Compassionate Estate, Trust & Long Term Care Planning Attorneys

Phone: (970) 243-8250 1250 E. Sherwood Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81501 1825 E. Main Street, Ste. C, Montrose, CO 81401

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4

COVER STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

Working ’round the clock Dan McCabe keeps time with a lost art

By Melanie Wiseman

couldn’t justify these repairs at all.”

e’ve come a long way since the days of water clocks and spring-driven clocks—now looking to our cell phones and smart watches for the time.

So why does clockmaker Dan McCabe have more work than he can handle?

“Sentimentality,” he said. “People often ask if the repair is worth it.

I tell them, ‘Only if it’s worth it to you.’”

Clock repair is tedious work, and McCabe said the cost of labor today usually costs more than the clock is worth, even in working condition.

“But that doesn’t matter to them because it was Grandpa’s,” McCabe said, “and when they were little, Grandpa would wind it and they would listen to it.

If it weren’t for that, you

Born into the business

W

Dan McCabe works on a variety of clocks from the comfort of his shop, a remodeled garage in his back yard.

Photos by Melanie Wiseman, Cloie Sandlin and Chrissy Martin.

McCabe grew up building and repairing bicycles, motorized scooters and cars with his two older brothers, but he was the only one who took to clock repair.

“Anything with gears, levers and springs has always intrigued me,” he said. “I had to know how it worked.”

McCabe learned the craft from his father, who repaired watches, clocks and jewelry for A.C. Parson Jewelry in Grand Junction before opening his own store in Hotchkiss. “[Dad] was a perfectionist,” McCabe said, adding that his father took his work very seriously. “He taught me the technical skills, but also customer service skills.”

McCabe’s knowledge of clocks led him to develop an interest in the mechanics of cameras and photography.

After high school, he entered the U.S. Air Force, hoping to be assigned a position in photography. He didn’t get one, but those four years gave him the opportunity to “play around” and purchase equipment that was more affordable overseas.

The technical aspects of photography came natural to him, so after he

was discharged from the Air Force, he attended a camera repair trade school in Englewood, and ended up teaching there after graduation.

McCabe had his own camera repair shop inside a couple of stores on the Front Range until he opened his own business in Fort Collins. He even tried a suit-and-tie job for a few years, working as technical director for Robert Waxman Camera in Denver.

“They got me off the bench, dressed me up and gave me a brief case,” he said. “I realized that wasn’t really what I wanted to do.”

Throughout 23 years in the camera repair business, he continued repairing clocks on the side and helped his dad from time to time.

McCabe returned to the Western Slope in 1996 to take care of his aging parents. He transitioned into operating an independent clock repair department at Page Parsons Jewelers for 16 years before moving his operation to a remodeled garage in his back yard four years ago. He still uses his father’s workbench and tools today.

McCabe’s Clock Repair specializes in repairing and restoring clocks from around the world. McCabe

MARCH 2018

COVER STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

works on grandfather clocks, wall clocks, mantel clocks, cuckoo clocks, anniversary clocks, chiming and striking clocks, weight clocks and spring-driven clocks. He also picks up and delivers within 150 miles of Grand Junction.

Keeping the art alive At 69, McCabe jokes that he is the only living clockmaker.

“Clock repair is so labor intensive that unless you spend a lifetime doing it, it’s not something you can make a lot of money at,” he said.

But clocks are his hobby as well.

He collects them, buying many at flea markets, garage sales and eBay. He admits to being a clock hoarder so he has the parts available when he needs them. He has two storage units full of clocks and a booth at A Robin’s Nest of Treasures & Antiques in downtown Grand Junction.

McCabe is confident that he can fix almost any clock. Although he puts in 40-hour weeks or more, he can only take on one-third of the calls he gets.

“I have many people give me clocks they say they’ve been told

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National & Regional Award-Winning Publication

“People often ask if the repair is worth it. I tell them, ‘Only if it’s worth it to you.’”

Publisher ..............................Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher....................... Susan Capps Editor............................................. Cloie Sandlin Creative Director........................Melissa Trottier Graphic Designer......................... Chrissy Martin Office Manager............................ Stacey Splude Office Assistant........................ Olivia VanGundy Sales Assistant........................ Caroline Skinner

can’t be repaired,” said McCabe.

For McCabe, that challenge is only half the fun. If he can’t fix it right away, he can spend hours investigating and researching until he finds the solution.

Clocks with stories Most of the clocks McCabe works with date back to the 18th century. The oldest clock he remembers working on was from China, which he estimated to be at least 300 years old.

McCabe’s had regular customers for 20 years or more—some are collectors, while others treasure the clocks that have been in their family for generations.

“I hear a lot of old family stories behind the clocks,” said McCabe.

“Sometimes they’re really elaborate,

but I’m a good listener.”

McCabe feels it’s important to keep antiquities alive for future generations. He appreciates learning the history of some clocks and specific pieces he works with.

Despite the gradual decline of the antique business, McCabe hopes to stay busy for the next decade. He said his father worked 70 straight years until he was 90.

“I love doing it, so it’s not a problem as long as my eyes, my hands and my mind can stay with that,” he said.

“Reaching 80 doesn’t mean I just quit, but I’d like to slow down and be more selective and do other things.

Then I can live it up from the time I’m 80 to the time I’m 110. Then I can travel the world.”

To contact McCabe’s Clock Repair, call 314-3210. ■

Account Representative................... Sue Bowen Account Representative........... Debra Romaniec Account Representative............. Valeree Seiferd Digital Media Manager......... Stephanie Summar Proofreader...................................... Jan Weeks Delivery...........................................Cora Gentry Delivery ................................. Lauren VanGundy Delivery...............................................JR Milner

P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 ph: 970.243.8829 fax: 800.536.7516 Website: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com E-mail: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month. Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta 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

Cover Photo: Joking that he is the only living clockmaker, Dan McCabe has more work than he can handle despite declining interest in mechanical clocks. Why? Sentimentality.

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FEATURE STORY S E R V I N G

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

G R A N D

J U N C T I O N

&

M O N T R O S E

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

H

Hilltop’s Senior Daybreak is a unique day program that keeps seniors with memory loss safe and secure while providing their caregivers the flexibility and support they need to care for their loved ones at home.

We also offer valuable information and support groups specifically designed for those caring for someone affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.

(970) 241-7798

www.seniordaybreak.org O W N E D

Taking care of the caregiver Story and photo by Jan Weeks

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Information.

L O C A L L Y

MARCH 2018

A N D

O P E R A T E D

B Y

H I L L T O P

aving been a caregiver for my mother-in-law, my mother and my husband until they passed away, I know what a struggle it is to keep from falling apart.

The months of loving care I intended to provide became a slog peppered with guilt— I’d find myself Terry Mizak, right, shares inforrmation about HopeWest ’s Caregivhoping they would er Connections support group with Callie Varra, left. die to end their misery and mine.

So how do caregivers stay sane?

Ask for and accept help Caregiver Connections is a support Friends and relatives usually want group for those who find themselves to help, but don’t know how. in a situation they hoped they’d never “They won’t know unless you tell be in. Headquartered at the Hope them,” Mizak said. “Make a list of West Care Center, the group is meant things, small or large, and have it for those caring for chronically or ready when someone asks, ‘How can terminally ill loved ones, those caring I help?’ Can they make a meal? Pick for spouses or others at home, or any- up some milk? Change the sheets on one whose dearest one is in a nursing the bed? Sit with your spouse while home or assisted living facility. you run errands or take a walk?”

The first step in taking care of Isolation increases as the disease or yourself so you can take better care disability progresses, and it’s one of of others is learning to recognize the biggest foes of being able to give burnout, said Terry Mizak, Caregiver quality care. HopeWest patient and Connections’ coordinator. family support volunteers provide an Symptoms of exhaustion in careantidote to that isolation. Volunteers givers can include becoming anxious sit with patients or bring therapy and fearful about not doing the job animals to provide a break from rouright, sleeplessness and forgoing their tine and enable patients to focus on own nutritional needs—especially if something besides their illnesses. they’re elderly—because they’re too “Human contact is really importtired to shop and cook or because ant,” said HopeWest Marketing and they feel they don’t deserve to be Communications Manager Callie well when their loved one is ill. CareVarra. “Just having a conversation givers may also suffer physical detewith someone you’re not taking care rioration, including headaches and of makes a huge difference.” ulcers, abandoning personal groomFemale caretakers tend to be more ing or just not feeling quite right. resistant to allowing others to help, What can you do if you’re at the believing they should take care of end of your tether? Mizak gave everything as “nurturers.” Men may specific examples of the things that also feel reluctance because they see caregivers can do to make their lives themselves as “protectors,” but Mizak less stressful. said they are more willing to let oth-

MARCH 2018

FEATURE STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

ers deal with intimate personal care like bathing.

Forgive yourself “Nobody expects you to be perfect,” Mizak said, “so lose the expectation that you have to do everything yourself.”

Caregivers feel guilty sometimes if they’re not carrying all the responsibility for those whom they feel should be the priority. They see their own interests as selfish, but they should allow the person in their care to help, if possible.

“Let an Alzheimer’s patient fold the laundry,” Mizak said. “Be creative in coming up with things they can do.

Let them contribute.”

Can they set the table for meals?

Sort clothes to be washed? Put away the clean silverware? Perfection has no place in this situation, but empathy does.

Treat yourself kindly Caregivers too often lose their own identities in the service of their loved ones. They become an extension of the illness or disability, living only to support the other.

One caretaker Mizak worked with was so frazzled that she finally called for a volunteer to sit with her husband while she took a bubble bath.

“She stayed in the tub for two hours, refilling it as the water cooled, and read a book,” Mizak said. “Not having to worry about what he was getting up to allowed her to relax.”

Have an outlet ritual. Beat the bed with your tennis racquet or scream into your pillow. Find someone who will listen to you vent. Go for a walk. Have your coffee on the patio.

Listen to music. Go for a swim while someone else sits in for you. Find one bit of joy or something to appreciate each day.

Acknowledge your grief Anticipatory grief occurs when both the caregiver and the patient realize that the patient isn’t going to recover. Both have lost life as it was, and it will never be the same.

“It’s as hard for the patients as it is for the caregivers,” Mizak said.

When loved ones pass away, caregivers often don’t know what to do with themselves. HopeWest’s Mending Hearts support group can help with that heartache.

Know your resources

Stop joint pain from hurtin

GO L B I K EF

Mizak said she regularly refers to the BEACON Guide to point caregivers toward resources like the local Alzheimer’s Association office. They can also call 211 for a list of resources and contact information. Several for-profit agencies in the area offer respite, non-medical care and homemaking services.

It’s also important to understand payment options. Medicare will pay for in-home help only if it involves medical necessity, such as wound care or therapy. Medicaid has 12 free programs, including day care for dementia patients, homemaker services (such as cleaning, dishes and laundry), feeding and sitting with the patient to give caretakers time for errands or relaxation.

Care partners can take advantage of HopeWest’s programs without having a loved one registered in its hospice program. ■

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Resources can be sent to caregivers who can’t make meetings.

To learn more, call 248-8844.

Caregiver Connections meets from 10-11:30 a.m.

Tuesdays at The Artful Cup. Mending Hearts (grief support) meets from 2-3:30 p.m.

Thursdays at The Artful Cup.

7

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RECIPES

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

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MARCH 2018

ASK THE OLD BAG

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

ASK THE OLD BAG

By Gayle Lagman-Creswick

Avoid a lawsuit:

Dos and Don’ts when screening rental applicants

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD

Inch by inch, moving on is a cinch Dear Old Bag: I was widowed at the early age of 40. Now I’m 55, and I’ve finally joined a dating site. I mentioned on my profile that I only want to hear from men who are 50-60 years old, but I keep getting messages from 40-yearold guys who say they like older women. Not only is that hard for me to believe, but it seems to me that most guys want women half their age, and I don’t want to date men who are close in age to my children. Do you think there are men out there who really do like older women? Signed, Doubtful Dear Doubtful: Yes, I think there are men out there who like older women, and it has worked out well for them.

I see signs of this double standard changing, but I am like you—I do not want to date men close to the age of my oldest son. Be wary of scams, but other than that, what’s wrong with dating a man who’s younger than you? Let’s get rid of one more double standard! OB Dear Old Bag: I am 60 years old. My husband passed away two years ago.

He was everything to me, and I cannot move on. My friends tell me to get out and do things, but I cannot seem to do it. I go to church and have lunch once in a while with a friend, but that’s it.

How can people make themselves do something when their heart is not in it?

Help! Signed, AJ Dear AJ: Share your problem with your physician. You could be depressed and need medication. They have a saying in 12-step programs that I think is good advice for you:

“Fake it until you make it.” Your heart may not be in it the first time you join a group, an exercise program, a book club, or other things that are waiting for you, but if you keep going, you might enjoy them. In the words of Robert Schuller, “Inch by inch, it’s a cinch.” Good luck! OB Dear Old Bag: My husband and I married young—he had a successful career and was able to retire early at age 57. Now we’re both 59. He has done nothing but a little housework and a small garden since he retired. His career was extremely time consuming and he never made friends or developed any hobbies. Now when I suggest that he get involved with something, he says, “I’m retired.” While he was busy with his career, I became quite social. I hate leaving him all the time, but I don’t want to live like that. Any suggestions? Signed, Worried Dear Worried: I would be worried, too. Sitting is the new smoking—it’s bad for your health. After I retired the first time, I spent a year sleeping in.

Then I was bored and needed something to do. Maybe this will happen to him. Do not stop your social activities, but consider joining something that requires your spouse and take him along. Enlist the help of his physician. Western Colorado Community College has many continuing education courses, including those that help people plan for retirement. See the class schedule at www.coloradomesa. edu/wccc/community-education or call 255-2800. ■

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

Stories of lawsuits between landlords and tenants get more interesting as time goes by. But don’t be one of those landlords who gets accused of discrimination and sued for rejecting a prospective tenant’s application, whether or not that was the real reason their application was rejected. Here are some tips for screening rental applicants that will keep you out of trouble: Do apply your policies uniformly.

Don’t run a full screening report on some applicants and only a credit check on others. You could be vulnerable to discrimination complaints.

Don’t get too personal with the questions on your application form. Ask about jobs, income and references, and provide space for an applicant to list the names of people who will be living at the residence, but avoid asking further questions about spouses or children.

Don’t automatically reject an applicant with a criminal record. You can’t consider arrest records or have blanket policies excluding all applicants who are felons. Evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis.

Do send a declination letter when rejecting an applicant, specifying the reason for the rejection, such as income, employment or credit history.

Do keep all documentation on applicants and tenants for up to 10 years. This includes applications, signed releases, screening reports, and any other data collected—even if you didn’t rent to the applicant.

These documents could be crucial if a person questions the reasons behind your rejection of their application.

Do call your attorney if you have any questions or concerns. Have him review your lease and application form to make sure it complies with the latest anti-discrimination requirements. It will help prevent you from making a mistake that could land you in court.

Martha Newman Senior Real Estate Specialist | 970-260-8747 martha.l.newman@gmail.com.

The Retreat Communities of the Grand Valley Thank you for the privilege of taking care of your parents and grandparents.

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The Retreat at Palisade 3780 Heritage Lane, Palisade

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THE HEALTHY GEEZER

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

HEALTHY

GEEZER

By Fred Cicetti

Colonoscopy: an analysis from beginning to “end”

I

’ve been subjected to the three major tests for colon cancer, and compared to the barium enema (a nightmare) and the sigmoidoscopy (very uncomfortable), the colonoscopy was a walk in the park.

In fact, once I was given anesthesia for the colonoscopy, all I recall is getting on the examining table, feeling like I had a cocktail and waking up in recovery as rested as if I’d had a late-afternoon nap.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is the gold standard procedure for colon cancer detection, and only takes about 30-60 minutes.

The colon is an approximate 5-foot tube that connects the small intestine to the rectum and removes water and nutrients from digested food.

Patients are given pain medication and a moderate sedative before the procedure. Discuss sedation with your doctor in advance.

In a colonoscopy, the examining physician inserts the colonoscope—a slender, flexible, lighted tube with a video camera at its tip—into the rectum.

The scope inflates the colon to provide a better view, and the camera sends pictures of the inside of the colon to a TV monitor.

During the procedure, a doctor can remove abnormal growths called

polyps with tiny tools passed through the scope. Most polyps are benign, but some can turn into cancer. By getting rid of the polyps early, a major operation can be avoided.

If no polyps are detected, you shouldn’t need a colonoscopy for another 10 years. However, if they are detected, your physician will recommend you follow up within 1-5 years, depending on the type of polyp.

Arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure, as it may take a while for the sedative to wear off. You might feel some cramping or gas, but you should feel normal by the next day.

No sweat, right?

The worst part of it all was the preparation. You purge your colon with prescribed pills or liquids (my doctor prescribed the liquids, which taste awful and you have to drink a lot of them), which means you’ll end up spending a lot of time on “the throne.”

You can drink only clear, nonalcoholic liquids and can eat only soft foods such as Jell-O for 24 hours before the exam.

You also can’t eat anything red so it can’t be confused with blood.

Your diet may permit liquids up to two to four hours before the exam. My doctor required total abstinence on exam day. ■

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

MARCH 2018

HEALTH & WELLNESS 11

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

DEAR PHARMACIST

By Suzy Cohen, RPH

5 natural remedies for high blood pressure that really work

W

hile waiting for a prescription, a friend of mine decided to check his blood pressure. He was dealing with a bout of walking pneumonia and his blood pressure (BP) spiked to 140/100!

Blame stress, the modern diet, lack of exercise, a bad infection and lifestyle factors such as smoking, but high blood pressure, or hypertension, could also run in your family. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness, stroke, kidney failure, atherosclerosis and heart failure.

The good news is there are several simple, natural remedies that really (really) work!

1. Hibiscus tea. Hibiscus tea has been used to lower blood pressure for decades. In one study, researchers found that drinking hibiscus tea for just 12 days reduced systolic pressure by an average 11.7 percent and diastolic pressure by 10.7 percent. You can buy commercially prepared teabags or you can easily make your own tea each morning. It’s fabulous for memory, too.

If you email my customer service team (customerservice@suzycohen.com), I’ll email you the recipe card for Memory Mint Hibiscus Tea. 2. Magnesium threonate. Some forms of vitamins are better for certain conditions. For hypertension, look for the mineral magnesium threonate. This form of magnesium can get into the bloodstream and get across your blood brain barrier, is easily absorbed by the cells and leaves your gut. It has been

proven to lower blood pressure and prevent strokes. Magnesium threonate is also great for helping promote good, healthy sleep and relaxation.

3. Garlic. Garlic cloves and garlic supplements have been proven to lower blood pressure. Garlic is an allium vegetable rich in antioxidants, good-for-you phytochemicals and polyphenols, and sulfur-containing compounds called allicin, which are wonderful for collagen promotion, too. Garlic is especially effective at lowering systolic blood pressure.

4. Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish and some plant foods like nuts, seeds and cruciferous vegetables. Fish oil contains EPA and DHA, two compounds that lower blood pressure and keep your heart healthy. Fish oils help reduce triglycerides and reduces risk for heart attack and stroke.

5. Berries and dark chocolate. I saved the best for last. For a sweet remedy, try chocolate-covered blueberries, or dark chocolate-dipped strawberries. Berries and dark chocolate sound like a wonder combo you can definitely get on board with, right?

Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, goji and açai are rich in polyphenols, which lower blood pressure, while dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which dilate blood vessels, reducing pressure. ■

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

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MARCH 2018

6 unconventional ways to stop snoring A

n estimated 90 million American adults snore, according to sleepfoundation.org—and over half the country has a partner who snores.

Millions of people are looking for remedies, and after years of unsuccessful tries with more traditional methods, it may be time to try other techniques to stop the sawing of logs.

However you go about solving the issue, it’s important to take it seriously.

“Snoring is more than just annoyance,” said Dr. Gene Sambataro, a dentist and author of the book “Stop The Snore.” “There are serious health consequences for ignoring what could be a bigger issue. If you know someone who snores, then you can no longer wait to find out what is going on.”

Sambataro listed these interesting and effective ways people can address their snoring: • Dental or oral devices. The goal of resolving sleep-disordered

breathing is to remove the obstruction in the airway. The tongue is usually the culprit. One device that can be recommended for the snorer or sleep apnea sufferer is the mandibular advancement device.

“This is one of the most widely-accepted dental appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea. It’s useful in forcing the lower jaw down and forward slightly,” Sambataro said.

“By creating an appliance that is worn at night, an oral physician can help a patient’s jaw carefully and methodically move forward, which automatically moves the base of the tongue out of the back of the throat.”

• Use a tennis ball. Snoring is usually worse when you sleep on your back. This causes your tongue to fall back in your throat, which disrupts your airflow. One solution is to attach a tennis ball to the back of a T-shirt, making it uncomfort-

able to sleep on your back and forcing you to sleep on your side.

“Eventually, side sleeping should become a habit and you won’t need a tennis ball attached,” Sambataro said.

• Do tongue aerobics. Muscle weakness within the tongue, mouth and upper throat may lead to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Strengthening exercises called myofunctional therapy target the facial muscles used to chew and swallow. Research shows that doing certain facial and tongue exercises every day can reduce your chances of snoring.

• Change your pillows. The allergens in your bedroom and in your pillow may contribute to snoring.

“If you feel fine during the day but obstructed at night, these things may be contributing to your snoring,” Sambataro said. “Everyone

Your Lung Care Team.

should evaluate whether your pillows are creating some nasal congestion due to a reaction to the material.”

• Nose cones are placed in each nostril to expand the nostrils.

This technique has a similar effect as strips, without the irritation of removing them in the morning.

• Nasal sprays. When used regularly, sprays can help eliminate any bacteria or fungus that are mucous-producing and cause obstruction of the nasal airway.

“Be careful not to look for quick fixes,” Sambataro said. “Society is intent on finding solutions for instant gratification. There are remedies out there—traditional and unconventional—but you should be thorough to remedy what can be a serious problem.” ■

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MARCH 2018

HEALTH & WELLNESS 13

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Do seniors need to take vitamins?

By Wendell Fowler

E

verybody understands the wisdom of fertilizing gardens so they’ll grow, bud and flower into abundance. Humans are no different. Without nourishment, we get sick, wither and return to the earth, perishing from a lack of what life requires.

You must forgive yourself for disbelieving that our beloved Standard American Diet (SAD) is the genesis of our nation’s plague of chronic disease. The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that you are malnourished, even though you did nothing wrong—you simply trusted and followed prejudiced dietary guidelines. But it isn’t too late. As we age, our body and immune system begin to weaken, and like a garden, must be mindfully attended.

Although food is abundant, America is third world malnourished. We consume more than any country, but today’s food has lost its soul. The industrial-strength Western diet robs us of nutrition as foods are processed and nutrients are destroyed and then replaced with unholy, synthetic, manmade chemical substitutes. Like an opiate drug, the constant, excessive consumption of addictive sugar, salt and fat that lace the American diet keep us coming back for more.

Alas, the SAD template has replaced nature’s glorious apothecary with processed carbs, genetically modified and chemically altered frankenfood.

In truth, Americans are eating food lacking “human fertilizer”—vitamins, minerals, enzymes, phytonutrients, fiber and macronutrients.

At your advanced age, is it necessary to take vitamin supplements?

YES! From A to Z, vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients our bodies need. Eating lifeless, processed food isn’t the only force behind our nationwide plague of nutrient deficiencies—booze depletes vitamins B and C, most minerals and antioxidants; allergies and infections deplete vitamins A, C and zinc; air pollutants, aerosol toxins and smoking diminish antioxidants; and stress depletes all nutrients, especially vitamins B and C. Illness and disease may be a normal part of life, but you needn’t invite them over for dinner.

Real plant-food vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals activate your body’s inner healer. Plant foods contain biological information, energy and nutrition that our cells need.

Taking vitamin supplements instead of eating fresh fruits, vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods is encouraged, but not the solution. There are many bogus vitamins out there, so do your homework.

My wife and I prefer Juice Plus and Source of Life plant-based vitamins.

Vitamins like One-a-Day or Centrum are hard to digest and have dubious artificial coloring.

TV ads appeal to your emotional hot spots with cheerful commercials to sucker you into believing good health and longevity is as easy as popping just one little pill a day.

Nonsense!

Rethink your strategy. It’s never too late to fertilize your inner garden. ■

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My mother’s peaceful death

By Jennifer Jane Peterson

M

y mother’s last words were “It’s not working.” She slurred them before she fell into a deep sleep. Just prior to that, after ingesting medication mixed with applesauce, she had placed a plastic bag over her head and secured it. According to her meticulous research, this would hasten her passing.

Her death had been planned for months, if not years. Both my parents were members of The Voluntary Euthanasia Society in New Zealand, where they had retired from England to be close to my eldest sister and her children. Even though I had married an American and moved to rural Colorado, I was fortunate enough to be able to visit them every year and stay maybe two or three months.

Contemplating end of life

We’re pretty lucky to serve our veterans “Luck is a word we use to describe the occurrence of an unlikely event.

Depending on the result of its impact, it can take on the characteristic of being either good or bad. The phenomenon of luck also appears to have several relatives, such as chance, destiny, fate and probability. Yet these are all concepts more readily understood; they point to the existence of an external guiding force, or even something we can calculate. Unsurprisingly, however, a precise explanation of luck as an idea and the rules that dictate how it behaves are harder to come by. Some would say luck is arbitrary, a gift that we’ve done nothing to earn, or that certain folks are

just born with it. Others have been bold enough to suggest that it can be lured in, or even made. I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it.” - Thomas Jefferson

Our end-of-life discussions had been ongoing for many years, and both my parents were determined to die with dignity at a time of their choosing and before any needless and expensive medical procedures.

Their wish was to pass away at home, as peacefully and as inexpensively as possible. As a family we agreed, with no hesitation. Now I pray that my sister and I can end our lives, legally, with the help of an enlightened

Luck exists. At the Veterans Community Living Center in Rifle, our staff has the pleasure of interacting daily with our veterans whose lives bare the evidence of hard work—individuals who answered a call to service in the face of overwhelming odds. We say that makes us pretty lucky.

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MARCH 2018

The author’s parents enjoying their retirement in New Zealand, 1991.

physician, when quality of life is no longer an option.

My parents generally were in good health until my mother was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at 82. This horrible disease was rampant on her side of the family—her beloved sister became ill in her 20s.

She suffered mightily, without today’s wonder drugs that can alleviate some of the unpleasant symptoms, and died in her early 50s.

My mother had obtained a supply of Seconal from her doctor in London and had guarded her “stash,” with a mind to her eventual death. Despite the capsules being several years old, Mother did valuable research, including obtaining a prescription for anti-nausea pills, as well as taking six 10-mg Valium, with a glass of wine, before ingesting the lethal dose of Seconal. She had written separate goodbye notes to my father and to my sister and me. This was necessary to exonerate her family members in aiding and abetting her demise.

The final weeks of her life were filled with joy and laughter, and the planning took on a military aspect that my father, a lieutenant colonel in India during World War II, reluctantly took part in. I can honestly say that we had never laughed so much, despite the looming event that was

MARCH 2018

15

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ever present.

My mother’s pain was becoming increasingly unbearable and even sitting up in bed caused her appalling agony. The family doctor (they still made house calls in New Zealand) had given her Prednisone and Methotrexate. However, throughout her life, my mother had been unable to tolerate strong medications and she was terrified that the Prednisone was making her blind. The Methotrexate, on the other hand, messed with her mind. To our horror, a few weeks before, we found her lying outside in the driveway, in the pouring rain at 3 a.m., crying softly for help.

Goodness knows how long she had been there, and thank God I needed to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. When I checked her room and she was not in bed, I alerted my father. She was taken by ambulance to the nearest hospital and she remained there to be stabilized for a week.

Dying with dignity Trying to keep on an even keel the morning of her death, I heard her speaking with my father who was asking her (again) if this was what she really wanted. I was cleaning up in the kitchen, and I am not ashamed to say that I lost it. I was privileged to have exceptional doctors in America and was prescribed suitable medication to help me through difficult times. This was definitely one of those occasions and I make apologies to no one.

Darling, darling Mother! So adamant that she could leave my sister and me as much money as she was able. She needed relief from her torture and, thanks to a long relationship with her family doctor in England, she was able to obtain it, in her own bed, surrounded by loving family. My sister and I monitored her pulse. It became weaker and weaker, until it was apparent that she had passed. The whole process took less than one hour.

It remains the most spiritual experience of my life, and I was similarly affected when my father died at home, just over a year later. Desolate after my mother’s death, he lost the will

to live and had even asked my sister about getting a gun.

He passed away a week after being placed in a morphine-induced coma by his physician, so there was no verbal contact in his last days. Although he did not have to resort to my mother’s method, he succumbed to an illness that had no name since any diagnosis, advice or procedures that might have prolonged his life were adamantly refused. I suspect it was pancreatic cancer that prevailed.

He died around 11 a.m. on September 1, 1996, with me by his side, holding his hand and professing my love.

The right to make our own choices As before, with my mother’s death, the funeral director who came to the house was incredibly disappointed when my sister and I firmly rejected his top of the line caskets. My parents always said that they wished to be cremated in matchboxes, a standing joke in our family for many years.

I give thanks every day for my parents’ decisions. My friends are coping with family members suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia and worse.

Their loved ones die in hospitals and nursing homes, lives needlessly prolonged. It results in loss of dignity, immeasurable suffering and devastating financial consequences.

I am so encouraged that more states have passed laws enabling physician-assisted dying (end-of-life options). To Fall thoseMember of a similarDrive persuasion, I urge you to become members of Compassion and Choices, based in Denver and available at 800-247-7421 or www.CompassionAndChoices.org.

This progressive organization enSupport makes all the dorses Death With Dignity, and was difference for thevoters Grand instrumental in the Colorado Valley’s only... passing the End-of-Life Options Act, now legalizing aid in dying.

Solar medical Powered CommuThey continue their efforts in all nity Radio states. become a new member or renew a We should all be so fortunate to membership have theright legal here right to as we atpass home! wish, and I say no state or federal agencies have any right to dictate how we make personal medical decisions. ■

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LAUGHING MATTERS

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LAUGHING MATTERS Let there be peace Submitted by Caden Carry

An old gentleman retired and purchased a modest home near a junior high school. He spent the first few weeks of his retirement in peace until the new school year began.

One afternoon, three young boys— full of youthful, after-school enthusiasm—came down his street, beating merrily on every trashcan they encountered. The crashing percussion continued day after day, until the man finally decided to take action.

are a lot of fun. I like to see you express your exuberance like that. In fact, I used to do the same thing when I was your age. I’ll give you each a dollar if you’ll promise to come around every day and do your thing.”

The kids were elated and continued to do a bang-up job on the trashcans.

After a few days, the old-timer greeted the kids again.

“This recession’s really putting a big dent in my income,” he told them.

“From now on, I’ll only be able to pay you 50 cents to beat on the cans.”

The next afternoon, he walked out to meet the young percussionists as they banged their way down the street.

The noisemakers were obviously displeased, but they accepted his offer and continued their afternoon ruckus.

A few days later, the wily retiree approached them again as they drummed their way down the street.

Stopping them, he said, “You kids

“Look,” he said, “I haven’t received my

MARCH 2018

Social Security check yet, so I’m not going to be able to give you more than 25 cents. Will that be okay?”

There’s nothing left to learn the hard way.

“A lousy quarter?” the drum leader exclaimed. “If you think we’re going to waste our time beating these cans around for a quarter, you’re nuts! No way. We quit!”

You can eat dinner at 4 p.m.

And the old man enjoyed peace and serenity for the rest of his days.

Benefits of growing older Submitted by Terry Becci

In a hostage situation you’re likely to be released first.

It’s harder for sexual harassment charges to stick.

Kidnappers are not very interested in you.

People call at 9 a.m. and ask, “Did I wake you?”

People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

Things you buy now won’t wear out.

You got cable for the weather channel.

You have a party and the neighbors don’t even realize it.

You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.

You quit trying to hold your stomach in, no matter who walks into the room.

You send money to PBS. You sing along with the elevator music.

Your joints are more accurate than the National Weather Service.

Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can’t remember them either.

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LAUGHING MATTERS 17

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Last ‘writes’ Submitted by Brant Hubert

Ol’ Fred had been a faithful Christian and was in the hospital, near death.

The family called their preacher to stand with them.

As the preacher stood next to the bed, Fred’s condition appeared to deteriorate and he motioned frantically for something to write on.

The pastor lovingly handed him a pen and a piece of paper, and Fred used his last bit of energy to scribble a note—then he died.

The preacher thought it best not to look at the note at that time, so he placed it in his jacket pocket.

At the funeral, he realized that he was wearing the same jacket he was wearing when Fred died. As he wrapped up his message, he said, “You know, Fred handed me a note just before he died. I haven’t looked at it, but knowing Fred, I’m sure there’s a word of inspiration there for us all.”

He hitched Buddy up to the car and yelled, “Pull, Nellie, pull!” Buddy didn’t move.

Then the farmer hollered, “Pull, Buster, pull!” Buddy didn’t respond.

Once more the farmer commanded, “Pull, Coco, pull!” Nothing.

Then the farmer nonchalantly said, “Pull, Buddy, pull!” And the horse easily dragged the car out of the ditch.

The motorist was most appreciative and very curious. He asked the farmer why he called his horse by the wrong name three times.

The farmer said, “Oh, Buddy is blind, and if he thought he was the only one pulling, he wouldn’t even try!”

New math Submitted by Joseph Hunt

A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asked him, “How many women can a man marry?”

He opened the note, and read, “Hey, you’re standing on my oxygen tube!”

“Sixteen,” the boy responded.

The horse that won’t work alone

“How do you know that?” he asked

Submitted by William Borrego

“Easy,” the little boy said. “Add it up, like the Bishop said: four better, four worse, four richer, four poorer.” ■

A motorist drove his car into a ditch in a desolated area. Luckily, a local farmer came to help with his big strong horse named Buddy.

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His cousin was amazed at the boy’s quick reply.

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18

HOME & GARDEN

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Starting seeds and healthy habits

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W

e participate in Nature’s rhythm through gardening.

Rather than watch the seasons go by, observing weather changes and admiring transforming landscapes from a distance, we experience the ebb and flow. This relationship with the natural world helps us embody concepts and practices that make us feel good.

This simple shift is easily overlooked, but the concept of health and well being is immeasurably different from the lived experience of it. Embodiment allows us to enjoy the real-life benefits of a healthy lifestyle—the joy, excitement and ease of it.

Sowing seeds of wellness This month, we can sow seeds of wellness by planting a bed of dark leafy greens, which are full of calcium; iron; vitamins A, C and K; potassium and fiber. A bed of colorful carrots adds antioxidants while radishes add magnesium and vitamin B6. I like to direct sow seeds thick, then thin as sprouts emerge, harvesting baby greens along the way. Add a thin layer of grass clippings to keep the soil moist, and cover garden beds with a sheet on colder nights.

Sowing seeds is about more than facilitating actual germination. It’s about setting our own intentions for health and well being. It’s a delightfully true metaphor, as with each seed we

sow, we are setting a tangible intention for growth and transformation.

Such intentions are simple reflections of Nature, who always leans towards life and prosperity. Like Nature, we can participate in creating abundance and immerse ourselves in cycles rich with sustenance and love.

In the garden this time of year, we are surrounded by brand-new beginnings.

As buds emerge and bulbs send up new colors and aromas, we are reminded by Nature’s infinite beauty of our own access to endless possibilities.

Sowing seeds of wellness is about trusting Nature, life itself and our bodies. By setting tiny intentions for joy and feeling good, we are opening ourselves up to experience well being fully and truly—transforming the idea of health into the reality of feeling alive.

Back to embodiment As we move into this next season of gardening and growth, think about how we are embodying the concepts we value and the feelings we want to experience. As free-willed human spirits, we get to choose how we interact with life every day. By moving, fueling and being mindful of our bodies, we can bring ideas into the realm of lived experience and create the lives we want to live.

May the garden be a platform for you to do just that, each and every day. ■

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

MARCH 2018

19

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It’s spring cleaning: room-by-room guidance to conquer the task

By Kimberly Blaker

T

he emergence of spring has long been associated with deep cleaning our homes. Although it’s origin is presumed of Iranian or Jewish culture, it’s a popular custom in America. For most, it signifies a fresh home, or new start to compliment the blossoming of spring.

So join the ranks of spring cleaners by using this guide to conquer the task. To keep from feeling overwhelmed, schedule a block of time each day, or even each week, for your annual cleaning. Work on one room at a time and reward yourself for each room until you’ve completed the job.

The basics for every room in your home

• Dust wall and ceiling light fixtures, then remove globes and wash them out.

• Dust ceiling fan blades.

• Remove cobwebs with a vacuum and brush attachment or a clean rag attached to the head of a broom.

• Remove and wash window coverings, and dust the top of curtain rods and window trim.

• Remove wall hangings, knickknacks and other décor, then rinse in warm soapy water.

• Wash doors and knobs and the dust that collects on top of doors and entryway trim.

• Wash walls with an all-purpose cleaning solution. Touch up chips with paint.

• Wipe off switch plates.

• Empty cabinets and drawers then wash them inside and out. Wash out and arrange drawer organizers, as well.

• Wash windows and sills, and don’t forget the unsightly tracks.

• Clean furniture from top to bottom with an appropriate cleaner. Vacuum under cushions, paying particular attention to creases and crevices where dust and grunge build up.

• Vacuum lampshades with a soft bristle attachment.

• Unplug electrical cords and run through a damp rag to remove built-up dust.

• Wash baseboards, then vacuum carpet edges with a narrow attachment.

• Vacuum and mop under furniture and other stationary items.

Bedroom odds and ends

• Remove items from under the bed, dust off storage containers and dispose of clutter.

• Vacuum under beds using attachments.

• Eliminate unwanted articles from drawers.

• Remove clothing you haven’t worn in two years.

• Dust shoe racks and rarely worn shoes.

Kitchen—contamination zones

• Dust the top of kitchen cabinets.

• Remove grease and grime from small kitchen appliances • Clean stove, oven, refrigerator and dishwasher.

• Wipe built up grunge in the top of the garbage disposal with a rag, then add ice and lemon slices and run the disposal to clean and freshen the blades.

• Scrub countertops with a mild abrasive or degreaser.

• Wash table and chairs—don’t forget the cracks where table leaves meet.

Basement, attic and garage— clutter havens

• Install racks, shelving and hooks, then organize and eliminate clutter.

• Dust shelving and stored items.

• Store odds and ends in same-size boxes or containers for easy stacking.

• Remove oil, paint and other stains from concrete with trisodium phosphate. Be sure to follow directions carefully and protect skin and eyes.

Outdoors—dirt, dirt everywhere

• Hose down siding and windows.

• Wash screens with soapy water then rinse with a hose, and wash window exteriors.

• Scrub doormats with an all-purpose cleaner and a brush, then rinse.

• Spray off patio furniture then wipe clean.

• Clean light fixtures.

• Remove lint from dryer vent and nests and hives that have formed on or near the house. ■

Bathroom—scour and disinfect

• Remove and launder shower curtain and liner, bath mat, toilet cover and rugs.

• Scour tub and shower. Use a toothbrush to remove mold, mildew and soap scum accumulation around the drain, faucet, knobs, and showerhead.

• Clean glass shower doors, including the track.

• Spray exterior of toilets with a sanitizing solution and wipe down.

• If you have young grandsons, remove the toilet seat and clean bolts where odors linger. Use a deodorizing solution on the baseboard and wall behind the toilet.

• Wash toilet brush container and wastebasket.

• Scrub sink and countertop including grooves around the drain, faucet and knobs.

• Dust the top edge of mirrors, towel racks, and other accessories.

Closets—the always forgotten • Dust shelving, brackets and rods.

• Organize shelves and eliminate unneeded items.

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20 TRAVEL

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MARCH 2018

Magnificent lakes, rugged mountains and rolling fields make up most of England’s Lake District.

Of famous poets, writers, lakes and incredible scenery: Don’t miss England’s Lake District Story and photos by Victor Block

V

iewing a high country landscape accentuated by a blanket of yellow, the poet William Wordsworth in 1804 described what he saw as “a host of golden daffodils.” To Lord Alfred Tennyson, people walking in the same region “came on the shining levels of the lake.”

It doesn’t take long to understand why this northwest corner of England prompted poets and other writers to wax so eloquently. Begin with the magnificent scenery of lakes and rugged mountains, thick forests and rolling fields outlined by stone walls and hedge rows, where countless sheep graze contentedly. Add in the

region's intriguing history and rich cultural heritage and it's clear why the readers of the magazine “Wanderlust” voted it the leading travel destination in the United Kingdom.

The British have a fondness for quaint, colorful terms, and only one of the 16 major bodies of water in the area—Bassenthwaite, itself a challenging tongue twister—is called a lake. The others are known as waters, tarns and meres. They're squeezed between England's highest mountains, filling valleys carved out by the advance and retreat of glaciers. Each body of water has its own attractions.

At 11 miles long, Windermere is the longest lake in the country. The shore

MARCH 2018

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is lined by Victorian mansions built for wealthy families during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, some of which now serve as guest houses and small hotels.

Steamboats connect tourist villages that overlook Ullswater. Landlubbers may prefer the 6 1/2-mile footpath that connects the towns. Another walking trail circles Grasmere, and William Wordsworth, who lived in the town of the same name, described it as "the loveliest spot that man hath ever found."

Hiking attracts many visitors to the Lake District. An extensive network of well-marked trails crisscrosses the area, and footpath signs are scattered throughout the region. Some trails cross farmland, past fields planted with crops and across meadows filled with grazing sheep. Others lead to inviting towns, which provide yet another reason to visit the Lake District.

Kendal is largely a manufacturing town, but because of its convenient location, it’s known as the "Gateway to the Lakes." Many of its buildings were constructed of grey limestone, which accounts for its other nickname, "Auld Grey Town." Other attractions include the ruins of several castles, the newest of which was built in the late 12th century.

The adjoining resort towns of Windermere and Bowness offer a long list of recreational activities for vacationers. The Bowness waterfront on Lake Windermere is lined with restaurants and shops. Nearby is the Hole In t'Wall, a 16th-century pub so named, the story goes, for an opening made by a blacksmith who worked next door, through which he retrieved his pints of ale.

Keswick’s marketplace has existed since 1276. It became a popular vacation destination in the 18th century, and today tourism is its principal industry.

Borrowdale, one of the most beautiful Lake District communities, lies in a river valley beneath wooded hills and Scafell Pike, the tallest peak in England.

The charming village of Grasmere loses some of its appeal during summer, when hordes of sightseers arrive to visit landmarks associated with Wordsworth, a member of the socalled Lake Poets. They were writers who lived in the Lake District around the turn of the 19th century and, inspired by its beauty, described it in their works.

The other two main Lake Poets were Samuel Taylor Coleridge, author of "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," and Robert Southey, best known as the author of "The Story of the Three Bears," a precursor to the Goldilocks tale.

A number of other poets and writers drew inspiration from the region, and their words did much to put the Lake District on the map. The places associated with this group of talented wordsmiths are as varied as the attractions that draw people to the area.

Today, a growing number of travelers are following in the footsteps of those creative types to create their own memories of the English Lake District. Discover the reasons why that tiny locale has so entranced those who have visited and lived there for centuries. For information, visit www.golakes.co.uk. ■

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22 LOCAL LORE The Glade Park School before it closed in the late 1940s.

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

Growing up in Glade Park

By Diana Barnett

S

ome of the fondest memories of those who grew up in Glade Park are centered on experiences that could only happen in an extremely rural area. Today, it’s difficult to imagine coming of age in the small community adjacent to the Colorado National Monument.

Rough and tumble beginnings

F.D. Miracle skiing with friends.

F.D. Miracle was recruited by the school district to drive the school bus, transporting Glade Park students to town.

F.D. Miracle’s parents, Eli and Eula Miracle, came to Glade Park in 1933, moving their large family of nine into a small cabin directly across the road from the Glade Park Store. His younger brother, J.P.—child number 10— was born in the historic log cabin on South 16 1/2 Road.

Residents who struggled making a living in the area sold their land for taxes and moved to town. This enabled the persevering Miracle family to eventually purchase more than 1,100 acres in the area. Like most residents, they were dry land farmers.

“Everyone raised a big garden, had some pigs, goats, chickens and maybe a couple of cows. We raised enough to take care of our family,” said Miracle, 83.

Miracle’s father also worked on the construction of the Monument Road at the Civilian Conservation Corps Camp.

“Dad would haul the garbage from the camp to feed our pigs,” he said.

Miracle and his brother attended the Glade Park School until his brother was caught playing hooky.

“We’d walk to school, and my brother would only go so far and just stay in that spot for the day. I went, but when the teacher and our parents found out, we both got kicked out,” he recalled.

For the remainder of that year, they rode horses or walked several miles to attend Little Park School.

Glade Park School closed in the late 1940s. The few students living in the area would meet at the old school to be transported to town. Miracle, then 16, was recruited by the Grand Junction school district to drive the

Evita Schultz and her brother, Terry. school bus up and down what is now Serpent’s Trail. There were no tunnels yet, and it was the only road that connected Glade Park with the rest of the world.

“There were a couple of curves, so sometimes you had to back up and try to get around them with a second or third try,” said Miracle.

In the summer, kids hung around the rodeo corrals south of the Glade Park Store. Rodeos could get rough, Miracle said.

“I was a pretty tough buck back then, but on one ride, the horse made three jumps and then stuck me in the dirt,” he remembered.

Tackling country life Evita Carpenter Schultz’s grandfather, Floyd Carpenter, also lived north of the store. Schultz’s parents, Francis and Rita, moved to Glade Park when she was 5 after her father decided to join his father in the ranching business.

“I remember my grandmother saying, ‘You have to come to Colorado to get land,’” recalled Schultz, 70.

She remembers that the Glade Park Store was the community hub.

“The post office was always part of the store,” Schultz said, “and there was always a pot of coffee on and the store owners would have cookies.

MARCH 2018

LOCAL LORE 23

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

They had an enormous wall of candy behind the cash register that was every kid’s dream. You’d take your 50 cents and they’d let you go behind the counter and choose what you wanted.”

It was a trusting place. People put their purchases on a tab and paid several weeks later. The store also had extremely flexible hours.

“The owners would often be asked to open later as cowboys who were moving cows and needed groceries at night would be stopping by,” Schultz said.

Country living was difficult, but residents made it work. Before electricity came to Glade Park in the early ’50s, residents had ice delivered weekly from Grand Junction. Schultz remembers the big truck stopping at her house. The driver would use a pick to cut off a chunk of ice and put it in the icebox on the front porch.

Access to clean water was sometimes an issue.

“Mother used to cut sheet squares and wrap them around the faucet to filter mud and twigs from the water,” said Schultz.

Growing up in Glade Park meant being in the middle of ranch activities. Schultz could ride a horse at an early age.

“When I was very small, a movie—‘Devil’s Doorway’ with Robert

Taylor—was filmed up here, and Dad and my uncle played Indians,” she said. “The movie company purchased horses from local people and one of the horses had a colt that Dad bought and brought home.”

The colt, Punkin, became her favorite horse and lived with the Carpenters for 19 years.

Although the school was closed, Schultz remembers lots of activities held in the building. She recalls Christmas parties with Santa, Saturday night dances for the entire family, cakewalks and an active quilting club.

Schultz’s family moved to Grand Junction in the winter so she and her brother could attend school, but still spent time at their Glade Park home, sledding on old car hoods across the abundant snow.

Both Schultz and Miracle grew up appreciating the beauty of their remote home. They each left for a while, but found their way home again. Miracle and his wife, Mary, still live on their 75 acres, close to the junction of DS and Little Park roads. Schultz and her husband, Jim, moved to Grand Junction three years ago after spending most of their lives on Glade Park. ■

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MARC

I’m now a Co

Leaving storm-t for a new life a

By Vanessa Santiago

A

few months ago, I was sitting at my cousin’s house in Puerto Rico waiting for the second hurricane of the year. Irma left us without light, but María left us without light, water or a way out of our area for more than five days.

It was horrible to see things flying around and listen to the wind while it took things away. After the terrible natural disaster, I walked to my house, just a block from my cousin’s, to find my front door shattered, more than 6 inches of water inside my house and a broken fence. I was grateful only a small corner of my roof had flown away.

I was lucky. A week before María, I met Brian and Lorie Gregor, a wonderful couple from Fruita. We spent

five days driving around Puerto Rico together. They invited me to visit Colorado some time, and I thought I might go for Thanksgiving.

But when María hit, there was no water, light, food, gas, cash or communication. The news reported that it would take more than six months for life to return to some kind of normalcy. I thought about my situation. My family is mostly in Florida (not my favorite state—how can I live somewhere that believes solar panels should be illegal?). My mother passed away three years ago and I have no husband or children.

My choices were clear, so I left my job of 20 years as a lawyer and decided it was time to be a Colorado girl.

I called the Gregors and told them I would visit with a one-way ticket.

They were happy to have me and I

was grateful to have the option.

Trying to leave My cousin covered the hole that used to be my front door with some wood panels—not the best security system, but it was the one that was available. I left my house with one suitcase, unsure of what to expect but full of hope. The drive to the airport was awful; everything that was once green was now brown.

Debris was everywhere, the highway had only one lane, most of the street signs were on the ground and passing under a teetering lightpost was an act of faith.

My flight was delayed one week because the airport couldn’t communicate to get flights out. Due to mudslides and constant rain, I couldn’t return home. I cried a few

impotent tears but I was able to stay at a friend’s house. My comfort zone was non-existent.

Beauty in the chaos It turned out to be a good thing that I couldn’t leave because I soon received a message that a friend was sick. For being a lawyer, I am also a wonderful nurse. I took medicine to his house. He was stable for a while but his temperature rose to 105 degrees in the middle of the night.

I nervously drove my friend and his dad through dark streets to the hospital, breaking curfew.

Service there was worse than usual. They gave my friend medicine without knowing what he had because the lab was not working.

The hospital wasn’t safe, so I took him home and stayed some days with

H 2018

25

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

olorado girl

torn Puerto Rico and adventures him. We didn’t eat or drink much because resources were finite. We waited eight hours in line for gas, and talked about our dreams while looking out his window at the stars, grateful we could dream in the chaos. We made the most of the situation, and even had fun. We embraced the resiliency that characterizes our people.

Coming to America When I was finally dropped off at the airport, the crowds were so large that it took me hours to get my luggage sent in. The airport’s glass walls and lack of electricity made it feel like a sauna—a sauna in which I spent seven hours waiting for my flight.

Hours later, I arrived in Chicago to be hugged by Red Cross volunteers and put on another plane to Denver.

We waited eight hours in line for gas and talked about our dreams...we embraced the resiliency that characterizes our people.

I left Puerto Rico in shorts because of the sauna atmosphere, and now I was freezing. A couple from Utah felt bad for me and lent me a jacket.

I arrived at the hotel at almost 1 a.m., but I was so tired that I couldn’t sleep. I listened to music, which I hadn’t done in more than two weeks.

I prayed for sanity.

At noon the next day, I arrived in Grand Junction and began my new life. My loving surrogate family gave me shelter.

Colorado versus Puerto Rico I have been in Colorado for a few

months now. I have a job, I am looking at cars to buy, and I love it. It has been a wonderful adventure so far. I have had to explain several times—to smart people—that I am an American citizen. It’s funny when people correct my pronunciation because my English is out of practice. I am bilingual and I try.

Puerto Rico is an American territory like Colorado once was. A great number of Puerto Ricans serve in the U.S. military. We pay federal taxes and Social Security. We have asked to be state 51 a few times. We can’t vote for the president and our Senate rep-

resentative has a voice but no vote.

Each year, billions of dollars worth of business done in Puerto Rico returns to the contiguous U.S. Due to the Jones Act, we can only buy products from the mainland—a $22.6 billion industry. U.S. corporations based in Puerto Rico pay very low taxes. The U.S. makes more money from Puerto Rico than what it sends in aid.

I have lost a lot these last few months, but I have gained a lot also. I am grateful to have always found great people to help me in my difficulties, and that there is so much kindness and empathy in my world. Let’s strive to live lives full of love and gratitude, and to pay it forward. ■

26 FAITH MOVES

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

ShareFest promotes unity SHAREFESTWEEKEND valley-wide SHAREFESTWEEKEND April 24&25, 2010

APRIL 28-29, 2018 VOLUNTEER TO SERVE YOUR NEIGHBORS. Deadline to submit a project request is April 20.

ShareFest is an annual event bringing the churches in the greater Mesa County area together to visibly demonstrate the love of Christ through united prayer, a day of serving in the community, sharing service projects, food, and celebrating together God’s goodness.

A CITY WIDE EVENT TO SUBMIT A PROJECT OR VOLUNTEER: Demonstrating the Call: Love970-778-4880 of Christ to Our Community Email: gjsharefest@gmail.com Website: www.gjsharefest.com

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What can we do for you?

By Melinda Mawdsley

A

fter her husband’s death in 2006, Joan Chaffin was left responsible for the care of their Grand Junction home, including a back yard with a slope so steep that she didn’t feel safe weeding it unless she was clinging to a long rope tied to a tree.

Admittedly, Chaffin said, she shouldn’t have been makeshift rappelling in her backyard in her mid70s. She was just hesitant to ask for help.

Two years ago, however, she changed her mind. After seeing advertisements for several years about Grand Valley ShareFest, an annual event pairing community volunteers with people needing work done on their properties, Chaffin finally signed up.

“I just enjoyed their company so Demonstrating much,” Chaffin said of her experi- the ence with ShareFest volunteers.

ShareFest isn’t just for seniors, but seniors like Chaffin make up a majority of the people seeking help from hundreds of volunteers who spread out across the valley to complete projects.

ShareFest is in its 11th year and though most volunteers come from area churches, anyone from the community may take part.

Rebecca Mashburn first volunteered with ShareFest nine years ago, and in 2016 she returned to work as part of her church group after its congregation decided to take part in the event for the first time.

“Before we were strangers, but we really are neighbors,” she said.

She said it was a heartwarming experience and it was equally wonderful seeing how the event brought her entire church together.

To Tim Roseberry, one of the lasting benefits of ShareFest is its sense of unity, both in the valley and within the faith community.

As executive pastor at Fellowship Church, Roseberry’s congregation was one of the original churches to

April 24&25, 2010

participate in ShareFest in 2008.

“Early on, there was just not a lot of church unity in the valley,” Roseberry said. “When ShareFest started, there were principal churches that got together to see this thing through. It brought us together in a way we had never seen before. We did it to see people get help in the valley, but how cool it is that we can come together as a body of Christ?”

This year’s ShareFest is April 28-29, and people need not be a member of any area church to receive help. In fact, Roseberry said, volunteers don’t push anyone toward any church.

“We want to show the love of Christ in a practical way,” he said.

At least 30 churches have already stepped up to participate, according to longtime organizer Debe Colby.

“We still believe the needs of our and Lovecommunity of Christaretonumerous Our Community deserve our attention,” Colby said.

“We may be rebounding as an overall community financially, but there are still many people who cannot afford some of the basic things a homeowner needs, such as cleaning gutters and starting swamp coolers.”

Organizer Vicki McGee said the event has found its place in the valley.

“I think we found that it really is something that is needed, and of course, the volunteers love it,” McGee said. “We do yard work, garden preparation, window washing— mainly something that’s going to take manpower. Cleaning up a yard sometimes takes 10 people.”

It’s true, Chaffin said. The group who helped her spent nearly three hours trimming bushes, cleaning up a planter and weeding her steep back yard. It’s hard to think she once did that work all on her own.

Those in need of assistance with tasks such as turning on swamp coolers, cleaning up yards, window washing or even flipping mattresses are encouraged to apply at www. gjsharefest.com by April 20. ■

A CITY WIDE EVENT

What can we do for you?

MARCH 2018

TALKING DIGITAL 27

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com COUPON

TALKING

DIGITAL

By Adam Cochran

Your computer is like a pair of pliers

T

en years ago, I taught the monthly senior computer classes for the local parks and recreation department.

Lesson one was always the same: Your computer is a pair of pliers, not a wrench.

Of course, your computer is neither a pair of pliers, nor a wrench. However, like these items, your computer is a multi-use tool that has many practical uses.

Have you ever told a friend that you feel stupid around technology because it will do so many things that you will never learn how to do?

The answer to the first question is probably yes, while your answer to the second question is probably no. But, in premise, they are exactly the same question.

The secret to learning how to use your computer (or any other technology) is to stop thinking about it as a magic box of specific and complicated wonders. Start thinking of it like a pair of pliers.

When you need a pair of pliers, there’s no question that it’s the best tool for the job when you need to crimp the end of some wires, open a small paint bottle, or pinch your husband for groaning too often while you’re binge-watching Episode 13 of “Project Runway.”

Before you get frustrated with technology, ask yourself this next question: Do I really want or need to do all of the things that this piece of technology can do?

Instead of getting frustrated that you haven’t mastered the tech tool, break it down into small jobs. You will be more successful at learning if you focus on the job instead of the device.

Once you understand a computer’s basic functions, such as printing, saving, or finding files, you will discover that your desire to accomplish the larger task will overtake your fears.

What do you want to do? Genealogy research? Organize your photos? Track your health? Get in touch with family and past friends on Facebook? All of those things are excellent uses for technology. Best of all, once you learn them, the procedures are always the same.

The purpose of any tech tool is to make your life more enjoyable and efficient, not force you to become a tech wiz.

Relax, focus on the routine processes, and remember that there’s no requirement to use the tool. Don’t let someone who knows more than you make you feel guilty for how you use your personal pair of pliers. ■

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

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By Jack Schacht, MyCollegePlanningTeam.com

H

elping your grandchild fund his or her college tuition is a great gift! Paying for college is the second-largest expense most families face, as tuition continues to increase at twice the rate of inflation.

According to CollegeData.com, the average cost of an in-state public college in 2017 was $24,610. The average cost at a private college was $49,320. Meanwhile, outstanding student loan debt is approaching a mind-boggling $1.4 trillion.

No wonder so many grandparents want to help grandchildren! According to a survey by Fidelity Investments, more than half of American grandparents are either helping fund tuition or planning to do so.

It’s not nearly as simple as writing your grandchild a big check, however. A monetary gift may result in a tax event on your end, or interfere with financial aid eligibility on theirs.

To avoid such financial perils, grandparents must research and plan.

Have a family discussion Surprises can backfire in a big way.

Let your grandchild and his or her parents know your intent upfront, so you can coordinate together.

For example, according to IRS guidelines on gift exclusions, you can give up to $14,000 a year without paying gift tax. But that monetary gift counts as untaxed income, which may reduce aid eligibility on your grandchild’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Ditto if you want to pay your grandchild’s college tuition directly.

The IRS may not count it as a gift, but depending on the college, your payment may negatively impact the student’s aid eligibility.

This doesn’t matter if your grandchild isn’t eligible for need-based aid in the first place, but you may not know unless you first determine your Expected Family Contribution. This

is determined based on the family’s income, who earns it, assets, who owns them, and in which accounts they are held.

Learn about tax-advantaged plans A 529 savings plan offers many advantages. The existence of a grandparent-owned 529 isn’t factored in on the FAFSA. Earnings on investments are tax-free. Withdrawals aren’t taxed if the funds are used for qualified educational costs.

Once funds are withdrawn to pay for tuition, however, distribution is considered income on your student’s FAFSA for the next two years and eligibility for financial aid may suffer.

As a result, some experts suggest holding off contributions from your 529 plan until students have filed their last FAFSA as college juniors.

Be aware: 529 plans vary by state, and you have the option of setting up an out-of-state plan with more attractive features. Once you decide to pursue a 529 plan, there is plenty to learn and consider.

Know your options You can also consider a Uniform Gift to Minors Act or a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act account.

These typically offer more investment options than 529 plans, but involve turning control of the account over to the student when they reach a specific age. These accounts are assessed as a child asset on the FAFSA, and at a much higher rate than those held by a parent.

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts offer a whole different set of pros and cons. Take time to learn what your options are before making a decision.

It takes homework to fund an education Helping your grandchild fund their college education is a gift that will last a lifetime, and you need to do your homework as a family. Talk to your grandchild and their parents about their goals. ■

MARCH 2018

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Tax scams heat up

By Teresa Ambord

S

cammers are always in search of victims, but even more so during tax filing season. That’s because the IRS is on top of our minds every year from January to mid April.

So when the phone rings and the caller ID reads, “IRS,” even the strongest may go weak in the knees. Every year, the IRS reminds us to beware of these calls, but scammers continually change their tactics just enough to fool more people.

Here’s how it usually plays out: The phone rings with the caller ID saying it’s the IRS. The “agent” gives a fake badge number to add credibility and doesn’t ask to speak to anyone particular (or it might be a robo-call).

The scammer begins to aggressively accuse the victim of being delinquent on his or her tax bill and says if they don’t pay immediately using a gift card or wire transfer, they face possible arrest, deportation, loss of driver’s license, or worse. It’s unnerving, and many people fall for it because they don’t take the time to think clearly.

These bogus calls can cost you dearly.

The IRS telephone scam is one of the most pervasive scams out there and it tends to target seniors. Even I was taken aback when I received an angry “I’m from the IRS” robo-call, and I spent my career as an accountant. I typed the phone number into a browser and a list of complaints came up from others who had gotten these calls. I sent the phone number to the IRS scam line and then deleted it.

The scheme varies In some instances, scammers will take a counter approach. Instead of demanding payment, callers may inform you that you’re due a refund— but first, they need to verify that they reached the right person and asks you to identify yourself with details such as your Social Security number.

They may also say the only way this

refund can be paid out is by direct deposit, so you’ll need to supply your bank account information as well.

Fake agents may also call and tell you they have your tax return in hand, but there are a few details you need to clear up. Don’t be fooled if the bogus agent may know some things about you, such as your marital status and the last four digits of your Social Security number. They may ask you to prove you are you by supplying the rest of your Social Security number. Obviously, the scammer is phishing for your identity.

The IRS reminds us of the following: • The IRS does not initiate contact with a taxpayer by phone, email or social media. If they need to talk to you, they will contact you by snail mail first.

• IRS agents don’t call to demand immediate payment, especially with a particular method, such as a wire transfer or gift card.

• The IRS will not demand payment without giving you a chance to question the amount they claim you owe.

• The IRS will not ask for credit/debit/bank account numbers over the phone or by email.

• If you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to believe that you might owe taxes, hang up the phone immediately. Don’t give out any information, don’t vent your anger, and don’t “press 1 to speak to a supervisor.”

• If you think you may owe taxes, hang up and call the IRS at 1-800829-1040 and ask for help.

If you receive an email that claims to be from the IRS and you suspect it’s a fake, forward it to phishing@irs. gov. While the IRS is overwhelmed with such messages, they do keep track of which scams are heating up, which allows them to designate resources to stop the scammers.

Forwarding a fake IRS message could make you an unsung hero, but a hero nonetheless. ■

SENIOR SCAMS 29

30 BUSINESS PROFILE

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MARCH 2018

Mays’ commitment to service is solid Story and photos by Jan Weeks

W

e’ve all heard the old saying that construction always takes twice as long and costs twice as much as predicted.

Cliff Mays, Jr., president of Mays Concrete, Inc. and Mays Construction Specialties countered this adage by saying, “We plan a job carefully.

Then we work with the contractors and sub-contractors to do it right.”

Left: Cliff Mays points to examples of stamped concrete.

Right: Mays consults with Gordon McFerron.

Although some overruns may be unavoidable, Mays said they work hard to bring in jobs big and small on time and on budget.

“Family owned and community oriented” is a phrase that perfectly describe these two companies, as they’ve been in the family since they were founded by Mays’ father, Cliff Mays, Sr. The oldest of the two, Mays Concrete, has been in business for 52 years, while Mays Construction Specialties has been in business for over 30 years.

Planning a new home or updating an old one? Mays Concrete can pour patios, sidewalks and curb and gutter. Stamped concrete, available in many colors and patterns, makes a good alternative floor for sunrooms or greenhouses, and has many uses inside and out. Patterns and color samples surround the main office at 2399 Riverside Parkway, offering examples for remodelers and builders.

The specialties branch is of particular interest to seniors who live in houses built decades ago that may be experiencing foundation and settling problems. It can raise and stabilize foundations that have sunk and threatened the house, and stop soil and foundational settling as well as improve ground stability.

Mays has been repairing foundations for years and is especially proud of its slab-jacking services, in which

uneven sidewalks or other concrete work can be repaired to keep pedestrians and homeowners safe from falls, which could result in costly medical bills and insurance claims.

Both companies serve commercial and residential sectors of Grand Junction and surrounding areas, offering their services as far away as Vail and Telluride. Mays said the company prides itself on doing quality work.

FCI Constructors and Shaw Construction are two companies in the Grand Valley who rely on Mays to provide experienced workers and superior workmanship.

Mays’ teams have worked to help traffic and pedestrians move safely and easily with civil projects, such as sidewalks and curb and gutter at the Little Salt Wash Trail and Basalt Middle School, as well as curb and gutter and medians where North Avenue meets the I-70 Business Loop.

Structural work involved building three elevator cores and stairwells simultaneously at the new Community Hospital. They’ve also worked on projects at both Ft. Lewis College and the Snowmass fire station, and done award-winning work on the Montrose Recreation Center.

To schedule a free estimate, contact Mays Concrete at 243-5669 or visit www.maysconcrete.com. Contact Mays Construction Specialties at 2450834 or visit www.mays-mcsi.com. ■

Cliff Mays and Mike Dougherty prepare for slab jacking.

MARCH 2018

“Messiah”: an Easter gift to the community

By CJ Payton

N

BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT 31

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

ot even the Easter bunny’s basket of treats can compare to the free community performance of George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” at Grand Junction High School (GJHS) this Easter Sunday.

The Messiah Choral Society has gifted this special concert to the community every year since 2004.

The concert features a 90-voice choir and several soloists with members ranging in age from 17 to 90. Choir members devote 14 Sundays to practice for this production, which premieres at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 1.

Local donors are just as committed to this performance, as they’ve contributed $13,000 to pay for professional soloists to help tell the story of “Messiah” with their extraordinary voices. Without these generous donors, tickets would be upwards of $50 each.

“Listening to Handel’s ‘Messiah’ will surely raise your spirits,” said Ed Arnos, who founded the Messiah Choral Society 14 years ago. “You cannot listen to this timeless musical masterpiece without feeling uplifted and inspired.”

“Messiah” is a large-scale work featuring scripture from the Bible that was compiled by Charles Jennens and set to music by Handel in 1741.

“It takes about 30 to 40 years of repeated listening to fully appreciate just how insightful Jennens was in his selections and how inspired Handel was in setting the text to music,” Arnos said.

Every year, soloists from near and far are invited to participate in the performance, giving life to this powerful work and spiritual message.

Tenor Mathew Coronado, a recent Colorado Mesa University graduate now living in Gunnison, was offered a solo after his performance at a live sing-along audition in November.

Coronado will sing alongside one of his former voice teachers, Dr. Kathleen Ruhleder, an alto soloist who has performed with the society before.

Now living in Houston, she returns for a rare, repeat performance.

DeAndre Simmons will sing bass.

From New York City, Simmons has performed with top opera companies and orchestras across the country and for notable leaders such as Pope John Paul II, Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon.

Sometimes the society will bring in talent from outside the U.S. Irene Vera is a soprano coming all the way from Mexico City.

Though the choir has 13 weeks to perfect their united voice, the soloists only have three practices with the choir.

Carlos Elias travels from Dayton, Ohio to resume his role as concertmaster. Elias was involved from the organization’s beginning, serving as concertmaster for nine of the first 10 “Messiah” performances.

Be uplifted and inspired at the Messiah Choral Society’s Easter Sunday performance at 2:30 p.m. at the GJHS auditorium. For more information, call Arnos at 245-4914.

For those who are unable to make the Easter performance, the society is offering a special preview during dress rehearsals at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 31 at the GJHS auditorium. Tickets are $5. Come early for a 9 a.m. informance by conductor Scott Betts, who will talk about the composition, its creators and the current musicians.

“This depth of talent and message is the reason ‘Messiah’ continues to entertain audiences young and old for more than 270 years,” said Arnos. ■

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3 ways the new tax law will hit seniors hard in health costs

focus on people

our residents

their lives

their families

T

Voter education and registration at Center for Independence Historically, people with intellectual or mental health disabilities have been unable to vote due to prejudices. People who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids are unable to enter the polling place to cast their ballot because of lack of ramps and accessibility. People who are blind or have low vision can’t cast their vote because the ballot was completely inaccessible to them.

The more obstacles people have to voting, the less they pay attention to the issues and the candidates.

MARCH 2018

You can overcome these challenges with help from the Center for Independence (CFI) and other organizations at a special Voter Education and Registration event in May. We are invested in making sure all people with disabilities in our community get their opportunity to vote. Colorado has mail-in ballots that can remedy polling barriers, and there are several federal laws that ensure and protect the right to vote for persons with disabilities.

Voter Education and Registration Event Tuesday, May 8 • 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m For more information call the Center for Independence at 241-0315 • 740 Gunnison Ave., Grand Junction

rump’s new tax law, which will result in a $1.5 trillion tax cut, is seen by some as a belated Christmas present to most American taxpayers.

Critics of the law, however, suggest that the Grinch will have stolen Christmas from some seniors.

Older Americans have some important issues to consider in terms of how the new tax law will affect their health care costs.

“For starters, the tax reform eliminates the tax deduction for medical expenses, and although a relatively small percentage of the population claim this deduction, it had a coalition of opposition to the largest tax reform proposal in a generation,” said senior care advocate Chris Orestis, author of the books, “Help on the Way” and “A Survival Guide to Aging.”

According to the IRS, about 8.8 million households filed 2015 tax returns that claimed the medical expenses deduction. The American Association of Retired Persons’ (AARP) Public Policy Institute says 69 percent of those taking the deduction had income of under $75,000, and 49 percent were below $50,000.

“The irony of the new tax law is that it penalizes people who are covering their own costs instead of relying on taxpayer-funded coverage through Medicaid,” Orestis said.

Orestis narrows down how three pieces of the new tax law could adversely impact seniors and their health care: • Eliminates medical expense deduction. Under the previous tax law, you could deduct family medical expenses if the cost exceeded 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. The new law ended this deduction and will particularly impact seniors paying for long-term care.

“This tax deduction was especially beneficial for seniors who are paying for long-term care costs not covered

by Medicare or private insurance,” Orestis said. “It provided a critical tax break for seniors in this category, and the elimination of this deduction will have a disproportionately negative impact on seniors paying for the expensive costs of skilled nursing homes and long-term care.”

• Eliminates Obamacare’s insurance mandate. The AARP opposed the repeal of the insurance mandate because of the spikes in insurance premiums that will result.

“De-incentivizing the young and healthy to get insurance or basically allowing them to drop coverage will make coverage for the old and sick more expensive,” Orestis said.

• Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid.

One reason for the failed efforts to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act was the likelihood that millions would have lost coverage due to Medicaid cuts. The new tax law triggered a $25 billion slice to Medicare in 2018 to help begin accounting for the $1.5 trillion tax cut. Medicaid covers 60 percent of those in nursing homes.

“It’s important to recognize the fact that Medicaid is the nation’s primary payer of long-term care services, in the same way that Medicare is the nation’s payer of hospital and doctor visits for anyone over the age of 65,” Orestis said.

Orestis said a more sensible approach to tax reform is to look for ways to use the tax code to create incentives for people to take personal responsibility, whenever possible, over relying on taxpayer-funded government programs such as Medicaid. ■

MARCH 2018

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All dolled up: Barbie celebrates 59th birthday

By Randal C. Hill “It is very strange to have a doll named after you.”

Barbara Handler Segal recalled strangers coming up to her and saying, “So you’re the Barbie doll!”

At first, she said she would turn and walk away. But eventually, she learned to just stand and smile.

In a 1989 interview with People Magazine, Segal said, “Much of me is very proud that my folks invented the doll; I just wish I wasn’t attached to it.”

Her parents, Ruth and Elliot Handler started the company Mattel in 1945, which manufactured dollhouse furniture. While successful, the Handlers were always casting about for one special item that would make Mattel an iconic name in the toy world.

In the early 1950s, the Handlers noticed that Barbara enjoyed playing with dolls—not the run-of-themill, cherub-faced, infant variety, but shapely teenage paper dolls that came with fashionable cutout wardrobes. Inspired by this, Ruth told Elliot that Mattel should offer a three-dimensional doll designed as a young woman with an appeal to older girls. Elliot opined the idea would never fly.

On a 1956 trip to Switzerland, however, the Handlers serendipitously found a doll much like the one Ruth envisioned. “Lilli” was a German adult novelty toy that—unbeknownst to the Handlers—was based on a cartoon character who was a prostitute.

Back home, the couple spent three years developing a clean-cut counterpart to naughty Lilli, a doll that would proudly bear their daughter’s name. On Barbie’s “official” birthdate—March 9, 1959—the doll debuted at a New York toy convention.

On that day, Barbie’s real-life namesake was a shy 17-year-old attending high school in Los Angeles.

First-version Barbie came dressed in a zebra-striped swimsuit The first Barbie doll was and posintroduced in both blonde sessed a and brunette in March 1959 . waterfall of blonde or brunette hair. She earned mixed reviews, with some critics grumbling that the voluptuous, long-limbed toy was too expensive ($3 at a time when the hourly minimum wage was $1) and, at 11 1/2 inches—the original Lilli size—too small in comparison to traditional dolls.

The main problem, though, was Barbie’s overt sexiness. Sears quickly declared her unfit for their store shelves. However, Barbie quickly flew off everyone else’s shelves and eventually became the best-selling doll in history, with worldwide sales of one billion units.

Barbie offered an extensive optional wardrobe and, later, morphed through numerous occupations and ethnicities. Along the way feminists often railed against her, labeling Barbie a vacuous bimbo and crying out that her proportional measurements (36-18-33) were unrealistic and potentially unhealthy for impressionable young girls who wanted to emulate her.

In 1961, Barbie’s boyfriend, Ken, arrived in stores. In doll form, he was California beach cool, but the human Ken—named after Barbara’s real-life brother—once admitted to People, “I was a real nerd. I played the piano and went to movies with subtitles.”

Barbara married and had two children—one of them a daughter named Cheryl. There’s no doubt that Cheryl was raised with the usual delights of any typical well-off southern California girl—except for one.

Cheryl never owned a Barbie doll. ■

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34

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Day trips provide relief from cabin fever

By Colleen Welch

Museums galore

unxsutawney Phil may have seen his shadow, but don’t let the next few weeks of winter keep you from venturing outside your house.

If you’re like most adventurers on the Western Slope, you probably can’t wait to get out and explore. And if the upcoming weeks are anything like the winter the Grand Valley has experienced so far, this weather warrants a day trip or a short drive to a few western Colorado gems you probably know about but haven’t been to lately.

The Grand Valley is home to the largest multi-disciplinary museum complex between Salt Lake City and Denver. Comprised of Museum of the West, Cross Orchards and Dinosaur Journey, the Museums of Western Colorado offer interactive, family oriented exhibits curated for people of all ages.

“The museums are a great place to bring visitors and learn the history of downtown and the Colorado National Monument while gaining a better appreciation for the region,” said

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David Bailey, the museums’ curator of history.

At the Museum of the West, 462 Ute Ave., you’ll find state-of-the-art exhibits, ranging from pre-European exhibits to a “flight” in a 1958 Cessna from Walker Field. Learn about Ute and Fremont rock art, and what life was like in the Wild West with life-size models of a one-room schoolhouse and a western saloon. Check out the museum’s latest exhibit on Alferd Packer, the Colorado cannibal and criminal in one of Colorado’s most famous murder cases.

Don’t be frightened by the robotic reconstructions of prehistoric reptiles greeting you as you browse the exhibits at Dinosaur Journey in Fruita. The museum is home to many exhibits displaying real dinosaur bones and fossils and a viewable paleontology laboratory, where you can see bones being prepared for display.

Dinosaur Journey is also a great place to bring the grandkids, as the museum also hosts several kid-friendly activities.

Cross Orchards is a beautiful historic site that was once part of a 243-acre fruit ranch that includes a barn, packing shed and bunkhouse from the early 20th century. Railroad enthusiasts will enjoy the Uintah Railway exhibit and recreated train depot.

Drive an hour south to the Ute Indian Museum, 17253 Chipeta Road in Montrose, to learn about the history and culture of Colorado’s longest continuous residents. The museum is full of artifacts and exhibits connecting the past with contemporary Ute culture, including information on Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta. Visit the gift shop and walk along the path to the grave of Chipeta inside Chief Ouray Memorial Park.

Before you visit, check museum hours and admission prices at www. museumofwesternco.com or legacy.

MARCH 2018

historycolorado.org/museums/ute-indian-museum-0. For the Museum of Western Colorado, call 242-0971. For the Ute Museum, call 249-3098.

Ouray National Fish Hatchery The Ouray National Fish Hatchery raises endangered river fish that have been in the Colorado River for over three million years.

“These uniquely historic fish came close to extinction in the past 60 to 70 years, primarily due to non-native predatory fish, water depletion, large reservoirs and fish barriers,” Project Leader Dale Ryden said.

Tour the hatchery at 1149 24 Road and learn more about these unique fish as you pass the egg nursery and aquariums containing river fish such as the humpback chub, bonytail, razorback sucker and Colorado pikeminnow. Each species has characteristics that have enabled it to thrive in a large river with wild rapids and high spring flows followed by low summer and winter water levels.

As part of the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, the hatchery works with public and private organizations to recover these endangered species, while promoting a healthy river system for the future.

Colleen Welch kisses razorback sucker at the Ouray National Fish Hatchery

For more information, call Ryden at 628-7200 or visit www.fws.gov/ mountain-prairie/fisheries/colora doRiver.php. ■

MARCH 2018

FUN AFTER 50 35

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

MARCH 15 St. Paddy’s Day Party Bring your favorite Irish dish to share and celebrate St. Paddy’s Day from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center. Corned beef and cabbage will be provided. Live music by Bill Bartley.

RSVP by March 13. Call 243-7408.

APRIL 21 Southwest Arbor Fest Enjoy live music, arts and crafts booths, beer tasting, and a mac and cheese cook-off at the 16th annual Southwest Arbor Fest from noon to 5 p.m. at Lincoln Park Barn. Enter your family’s famous mac and cheese recipe into the competition for the chance to win amazing cash prizes. Entry fee is $20.

You can also pre-purchase beer tasting tickets and save $5! Visit www.gjparks andrec.org or call 254-3876 for more information.

HEALTH MARCH 29 Pull Your Own Weight Learn how to use the fitness circuit at Canyon View Park, along with other fitness tips. This class is free and starts at 10 a.m. Wear comfortable clothes and tennis shoes. Please register, as class size is limited.

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

MONDAY-FRIDAY Aqua Aerobics These classes are for beginner or novice individuals. Class is 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Orchard Mesa Pool. Drop in for $4.50 or purchase a 12-punch pass for $46.50.

Spring into March with dozens of daisies

Valley-wide delivery • Out of-town orders welcome

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DANCE THURSDAYS Senior Dances with Live Music Dance from 8-10 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center. Cost is $3.

SAVE THE DATE AUGUST 20-26 Western Colorado Senior Games Register now at the Parks & Recreation office.

VOLUNTEER BE A TRAIL HOST! Spend time outside and have fun assisting folks on the Riverfront Trail.

Applications are being accepted. Training starts March 1. For details, call Lorie at 254-3876.

DOWNTOWN AMBASSADOR Downtown Ambassadors welcome visitors, answer questions about the downtown area and inform the police department of safety concerns. Shifts are available from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Training starts May 28. For more information, call Lorie at 254-3876.

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Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Avenue - 970 243-7408 The Senior Recreation Center offers activities for seniors age 50 and older.

The center is open Monday–Saturday from 8 am–4 pm. Annual membership is $15.

Senior Recreation Center Monthly Calendar of Events MONDAY THURSDAY 9:00 am 9:30 am 10:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5:30 pm

Cribbage Cards Computer Classes Gray Gourmet Lunch Card Bingo & Dominoes Singles Pinochle (1st & 3rd Monday)

9:00 am Cribbage & Dominoes 10:00 am Dance w/Music (1st Thursday) 10:30 am Membership Meeting 12:00 pm Pokeno (Starts at 1 p.m. on 1st Thursday) 7:30 pm Dance

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

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

9:00 am

12:00 pm 12:30 pm 12:45 pm 1:00 pm

WEDNESDAY 9:00 am 9:30 am 10:00 am

12:00 pm 1:00 pm

Ladies Pool & Cribbage Jack & Jill Pool Tourney Free Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd Wed) Gray Gourmet Lunch Pinochle & Canasta

Painting Class & Pool Tourney Gray Gourmet Lunch Bible Study Bridge Canasta

SATURDAY 9:00 am Bridge 1:00 pm Bingo

To make Gray Gourmet lunch reservations, call 243-9844. Cost $3.50

36 MESA COUNTY

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MARCH 1 “Saving Snow” documentary Free screening of the timely new documentary about the decline of winter, which views climate change through the eyes of skiers, resort business people and local activists. Hosted by the Grand Valley chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Potluck social at 5:30 p.m.; film starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Library, 443 N. Sixth St. MARCH 2 Mary Robinson: Shifting Perspective Mary Robinson is a mixed media artist, associate professor and head of printmaking at the University of South Carolina School of Visual Art and Design. In this one-hour presentation starting at 5 p.m., she will speak about the practice of observation as it relates to making art and understanding the world.

Presentation takes place at the Western Colorado Center for the Arts, 1803 N. Seventh St. in Grand Junction.

MARCH 6 Writers Night: Plotting a Novel with Patti Hill Join award-winning author Patti Hill as she walks through the steps of plotting a novel, including the pre-writing process, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Central Library, 443 N. Sixth St. in Grand Junction. This event is sponsored by the Western Colorado Writers Forum and Mesa County Public Libraries with support from Grand Junction Arts Commission.

MARCH 6 Museums of Western Colorado Heritage Awards The Museums of Western Colorado celebrates the contributions of community members toward fulfilling the museums’ mission of discovering, preserving and sharing the heritage of the Western Slope at the sixth annual Heritage Awards. The evening kicks off with a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed

MARCH 2018

by the program featuring local cowboy poets and an awards ceremony from 6-8 p.m. at the Whitman Educational Center, 248 S. Fourth St. in Grand Junction. For more information, visit www.museumofwesternco.com or call 241-0971, ext. 2204.

MARCH 7 Song + Dance Centennial Band performance The Grand Junction Centennial Band presents “Song + Dance” at Colorado Mesa University’s Robinson Theatre.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and will showcase toe-tapping concert band literature including Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Jesters” and “Russian Sailor’s Dance.” Admission is free.

MARCH 8 A La Mode Dessert Competition Local chefs create decadent desserts to compete for the coveted People’s Choice Award. Attendees sample the bite-sized desserts and vote on their favorite. Competition is at 6:30 p.m. at the Doubletree by Hilton. Tickets are $40 per person or $75 per couple.

Proceeds benefit local organizations through Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club.

MARCH 8 Art Discussion at the library Discover how to look at art with the help of Don Meyers, professor emeritus of art at Colorado Mesa University. The discussion kicks off at 1 p.m. with a brief overview and tour of the art on exhibit at the Central Library Community Room. For more information, visit www.mesacountylibraries.org.

MARCH 10 Covenant Presbyterian Church’s Roast Beef Dinner Enjoy a roast beef dinner with all the fixin’s. Dinner will be served from 1-6:30 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 237 32 Road. Cost is $12.50 for adults, $6 for children and free for children age 6 and under.

MARCH 10 Museum Volunteer Introduction Interested volunteers with the Muse-

MARCH 2018

MESA COUNTY 37

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ums of Western Colorado are encouraged to attend a free volunteer introductory class at 11 a.m. at Museum of the West, 462 Ute Ave. Find out more about each of the three museum sites, and learn about available volunteer positions from site curators. Those who are interested further will participate in five in-depth training classes in March with several meeting times available.

To reserve your seat, call 242-0971 or email cjones@westcomuseum.org.

MARCH 10 Karaoke Killer Mystery Dinner Contestants vie for the title top vocalist in a Karaoke Killer competition. When one of the singers winds up sporting a toe tag, you become a suspect and deputy in the investigation to bring a killer to justice. Audience members who choose will have the chance to strut their best karaoke vocals! Show takes place from 6:15-8:30 p.m. at Garfield’s, 2148 Broadway. Admission is $29.99.

MARCH 15 Ballet Folklorico Mexicano de Carlos Moreno Enjoy a performance from the Ballet Folklorico at 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Junction High School auditorium. This concert is brought to you by Community Concerts of the Grand Valley. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students. For more information or ticket availability, call 243-1979.

MARCH 17 Active Seniors Day Browse information from a variety of organizations focused on seniors from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Central Library, 443 N. Sixth St. in Grand Junction.

Learn about ways to get involved in the community by visiting with representatives from Hilltop, Grand Junction Parks & Recreation, AARP, HopeWest, New Dimensions, Newcomers Club and Crossroads Fitness. For details, visit www.mesacountylibraries.org.

MARCH 17 Maggie & Jiggs Irish Celebration Come to the annual Maggie & Jiggs

dinner from 4-6 p.m. at Fruita United Methodist Church, 405 E. Aspen Ave., featuring corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, pie and beverage. Dine in or take out. Cost is $9 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, call 858-3490.

MARCH 22 AARP Driver Safety Class Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws at the AARP Driver Safety Class from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Commons of Hilltop, 625 27 ½ Road in Grand Junction. Cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nonmembers. Preregistration is required. To register, call Frank at 312-4967.

MARCH 24 Back to the ’40s event for female veterans Make new friends and get connected with veterans’ services at this USO-style event for female veterans held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Veterans Community Center, 120 W. Eighth St. in Palisade. There will be games, prizes and contests for the best 1940s-style hat and best dressed. Admission is free and includes lunch. Please RSVP no later than March 14 by emailing ladyvets@ gmail.com. For more information, call 623-0146 or 234-2800, ext. 2508.

MARCH 24 Cowboy Poetry Night Enjoy a great evening of cowboy poetry and western music, along with a delicious beef stew dinner, silent auction and door prizes at Gateway Community Building, 42700 Highway 141.

Dinner starts at 5 p.m. Entertainment starts at 6 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults.

Proceeds benefit the Gateway 4H Club Scholarship Fund. Call 970-931-2803.

MARCH 26 Historic Registry trip This tour will take us to some of the far-flung corners of Mesa County to explore some of the area’s historic sites.

Cost is $80 for Museum of Western Colorado members and $90 for nonmembers. Register by March 5. For details, call 242-0971, ext. 2204. ■

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Beacon Bits Home Care of the Grand Valley named to the Top 500 of the HomeCare Elite Home Care of the Grand Valley ranks in the Top 500 of the 2017 HomeCare Elite, a recognition of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. For 12 years, HomeCare Elite has annually identified the top 25 percent of agencies and highlighted the top 100 and top 500 agencies overall.

Home Care of the Grand Valley CEO Sue Brown credits the staff’s enthusiasm and extraordinary dedication to the agency’s mission for this recognition. Home Care of the Grand Valley is a mission driven community based not-for-profit organization. For more information about HomeCare Elite, call 888-572-4009 or visit www.ablilitynetwork.com/hce.

“Saving Snow” documentary Grand Junction and Palisade are among 100 communities around the nation to get opening-week screenings of “Saving Snow,” a new documentary about the decline of winter. “Saving Snow” views climate change through the lens of Wisconsin’s famed American Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Race, which was canceled last year due to lack of snow.

Amateur competitors, pro skiers, resort business people and local activists weigh in. The Grand Valley chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby will be showing the film at 6:30 p.m. March 1 at the Central Library and at 6 p.m. on March 2 at the Palisade Community Center.

Colorado Mesa University’s Sustainability Council and Citizens’ Climate Lobby will show the film at 6 p.m. March 6 at the CMU Ballroom. Admission is free.

For more information, email grandjunction@citizensclimatelobby.org.

Wine Enthusiast names the Grand Valley one of the Top 10 wine destinations The Grand Valley has been named one of the Top 10 wine destinations in the world by Wine Enthusiast magazine.

The magazine’s senior tasting coordinator, Fiona Adams, said, “Worth exploring for its beauty and bounty, this high-altitude wine region is on the rise.

MARCH 2018

Colorado isn’t just paradise for outdoor adventurers—it has plenty to offer any wine lover as well. Rocky plateaus offer a beautiful backdrop for wine tasting, hiking, mountain biking and white-water rafting, while abundant fruit markets show off local peaches and other delicious produce to snack on in between. Add in excellent accommodations and dining, and you’ll never want to come back down to lower ground.”

Read the full story at www.winemag. com.

Museum of Western Colorado volunteer training Volunteers are a driving force for our historic museums in Mesa County. Interested volunteers with the Museums of Western Colorado are encouraged to attend a free volunteer introductory class at 11 a.m. on March 10 at Museum of the West, 462 Ute Ave. Meet the museums’ volunteer coordinator, Carly Jones, who will provide the foundation and needs of each of the three museum sites, and learn about available volunteer positions from site curators.

Orientation and training is required for all volunteers. Those who are interested further will participate in five in-depth 90-minute training classes from March 10-30, with several meeting times available. Potential volunteers need to be present at each class for a specific site.

For more information or to reserve your seat, call 242-0971 or email cjones@ westcomuseum.org.

• Cross Orchards training is from 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesdays, March 13, 20 and 27 • Museum of the West training is from 5:30-7 p.m. on Wednesdays, March 14, 21 and 28 • Dinosaur Journey trainings are from 5:30-7 p.m. on Thursdays, March 15, 22 and 29 Orthopedic spine surgeons join Community Hospital Community Hospital is pleased to announce that board certified orthopedic surgeons Kirk D. Clifford, MD, and James S. Gebhard, MD, will be joining Community Hospital in May of this year. Together, they will form Western Colorado Spine. Dr. Clifford brings over 17 years of experience in orthopedic spine surgery and has unique training

MARCH 2018

MESA COUNTY 39

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in a combined orthopedic-neurosurgical spine fellowship and provides orthopedic surgery with a specialized focus on the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of spine injuries in both adults and children. Dr. Gebhard specializes in adult and pediatric spine surgery and has been practicing orthopedic surgery since 1993. He works to treat patients with a variety of conditions, such as scoliosis, stenosis, osteoporosis, spinal tumors, ruptured disks, pulled muscles, and neck or back pain. The ability to provide adult and pediatric spine surgery will support Community Hospital’s goal to better meet the health care needs of the community by providing accessible, high-quality, coordinated and cost-effective care to patients.

Donate to museums to replace stolen dino truck On February 3, a 1993 Dodge Dakota truck was stolen from the Museums of Western Colorado’s Dinosaur Journey, a truck that was a key tool in the museum’s mission and efforts to discover and excavate fossils from paleontological sites. This truck played a significant role in transporting water, equipment and tools to the dig sites, which are often in remote areas, and bringing fossils back to the museum for study. The truck was also the legacy of Don Chaffin, a former volunteer who lovingly donated time and energy to Dinosaur Journey. The Museums of Western Colorado need your help to continue their mission. Please consider a donation to help replace the stolen truck. Donations can be made at www.

museumofwesternco.com/support-us/ ways-to-give for “One Tough Quarry Truck,” or call 960-242-0971, ext. 2212.

Knights of Columbus fish dinner Knights of Columbus will be hosting a fish dinner on March 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 790 26 ½ Road.

Come enjoy clam chowder, baked cod or fried Pollock, coleslaw and other great food. Cost is $9 for adults, $7 for children, and free for children 6 and under.

Free tax help available for local families Tax filing prep time is fast approaching and taxpayers with household incomes less than $54,000 qualify for free tax help. Visit a Tax Help Colorado tax site to get your return prepared and e-filed for free by IRScertified students. To find free tax preparation sites in Mesa County, dial 2-1-1 or visit www.piton. org/tax-help-colorado.

Colorado Post-Polio traveling clinic Colorado Post-Polio organization and Easter Seals Colorado would like to send a team to towns outside of Denver Metro Area to offer polio evaluations. The team is a free, traveling clinic that offers evaluations to polio survivors. To make an appointment and get information, contact Marny Eulberg at 303-829-1538 or email marneyeul@ me.com before April 30 to be included in the 2018 schedule.

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Support Groups

MARCH 2018

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

Breast Friends, a breast cancer support group, meets monthly from 5-6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday in St. Mary’s Reflection Room.

mourning the death of a loved one.

This group meets from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Thursdays. For location and details, call 628-1453.

Caregiver Connections meets from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest. Call 2608931.

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

Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. The group meets monthly at 7-8:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday at Unity Church, 3205 N. 12th St. Call 434-3822.

Healing Hands involves the belief that the body has energy fields that can be used for healing and wellness. It complements traditional medical care, and does not require touch. Attendees meet from noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays in St. Mary’s Reflection Room.

COPD Support Group meets monthly at 1 p.m. on the fourth Friday at 581 Grand Valley Dr. in Grand Junction. Call 317-7556 or email Jimcampbell3@aol. com.

Help Heal Veterans’ Craft Center, 2500 North Ave., supplies hundreds of free therapeutic craft kits each week to military service members and veterans receiving medical care. Call 424-0499.

GriefShare is a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those

Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets monthly from 4-5 p.m. on the third Monday in St. Mary’s Reflection Room.

Tinnitus Support Group meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Community Hospital, 2351 G Road, legacy room 1. Call 589-0305.

Look Good, Feel Better meets monthly from 3-5 p.m. on the last Wednesday. Beauty professionals provide tips to help women defy the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Call 800-227-2345.

Western Colorado Post Polio Group educates polio survivors and caregivers about post-polio, and promotes independent living for people struck with the virus many years ago.

Call 241-7825. ■

Taking care of the

GREATEST

generation: YOURS! Live life your way in your home Tailored in-home care plans to fit your lifestyle Senior, recuperative and long-term care available Experienced caregivers with ongoing training Direct Link personal emergency response system

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

MS and Men, a support group for men living with MS, meets monthly from 11 a.m. to noon on the third Thursday at The Artful Cup. Call 2418975.

MS Breakfast Group meets monthly at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday at Village Inn, 757 Horizon Dr. Call 241-8975.

Peripheral Neuropathy Support Group meets monthly from 1-2 p.m. on the first Tuesday at Church of the Nativity, 2175 Broadway. Call 245-9606.

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MARCH 2018

MESA COUNTY 41

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Club Activities

Outing Club meets quarterly but hosts activities weekly. Call 812-6759 or 243-7645.

Art Quilt Association (AQuA) meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. on the third Saturday in Grand Junction. Visit www.theartquiltassociation.com.

Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets at noon on Thursdays at Hilltop, 1129 Colorado Ave., room 215.

Call 250-3969.

Blue Lodge Masons meets monthly at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday at the Masonic Center. Call 245-5312.

Cribbage Lite meets at 5:30 p.m.

Tuesdays at IHOP. Call 201-7823.

Colorado Archaeological Society Grand Junction meets monthly from 6:30-9 p.m. on the second Monday.

Call 433-4312 or visit www.meetup. com/CAS-GJ/events.

Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) #244 meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday at the VFW #3981.

All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. Call 434-0868.

Friendship Force meets monthly at 6:15 p.m. on the third Thursday at First Baptist Church. Call 260-4653 or visit www.thefriendshipforce.org.

Grand Junction Chess Club meets from 6:30-11:30 p.m. Mondays in the Safeway Starbucks, 2901 F Road. We loan chess sets out at no charge. Visit www.jctchess.com.

Grand Junction Gem and Mineral Club meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday and 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday at 2328 Monument Road. Email grandjunctionrockclub@ gmail.com Grand Junction Newcomers Club meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday at First Christian Church. Call 549-0439.

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets monthly at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday at Two Rivers Convention Center. Visit www.grand junctionpmc.com.

Grand Junction Toastmasters meets at St. Mary’s Life Center in the second-floor conference room every Tuesday at 7:10 a.m.

Grand Mesa Chorus, Sweet Adelines International, rehearses from 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 255-9419 or 523-3464 or visit www.grandmesa chorus.org.

Grand Valley Pets Alive meets monthly from 4:30-6 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Church of the Nativity.

Call 462-7554.

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays and 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at Redlands United Methodist Church.

Call 245-8817 or 523-5965.

Guys’ Giving Club meets quarterly at the Springhill Suites, 236 Main St. in Grand Junction. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. The next meeting is at 5:15 p.m. May 1. For membership information, call 243-8829 or 270-6184.

Knitting Club meets monthly from 6:30-8 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B 1/2 Road. Call 623-1455.

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday at The Commons of Hilltop and at noon on the fourth Wednesday at the Museum of Western Colorado. Help sessions are at 1 p.m. on the first Friday at a library branch.

Call 640-2388.

Not Going Quietly meets monthly from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays at Center for Spiritual Living Grand Junction. This group is intended to create a space of empowerment, grace, community and wisdom for individuals age 60 and older. Call 433-7799.

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays at the VFW. Call 216-2919.

Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets from 7-9 p.m. on Match 8 at Lupe’s Studio. Visit www.thundermou ntaincameraclub.org or call 216-9311.

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets Thursdays at the Masonic Center. Call 261-1670.

Two River Sams/Good Sam RV Club meets at 11:30 a.m. on March 10.

For location, call 523-5625.

Vestafjell Lodge, Sons of Norway meets at 1 p.m. on March 10 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church. Call 245-5649 or visit www.vestafjelllodge. org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) #3981 meets monthly at 5:30 p.m. on

the first Wednesday for a family style dinner and meeting at the Post Hall, 503 1/2 Florence Road in Grand Junction. Call 778-8242.

Western Colorado Amateur Radio Club meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. on the second Saturday at the Civil Patrol Hangar, 2868 Aviators Way. Visit www. w0rrz.org.

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday at Colorado Mesa University’s Wubben Hall, room 161. Call 8123661 or visit www.wcacastronomy.org.

Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets monthly at 9 a.m. on the second Saturday at Grand Junction’s First Congregational Church. Call 640-2751.

Western Slope Coin Club meets monthly at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday at VFW #1247. Get a free coin/ currency evaluation at 5:30 p.m. Visit www.gjcoinshow.com. ■

RIVER CITY SINGLES

“Young-at-heart adults getting together for fun and friendship.”

Annual membership is $20.

Fridays at 5 p.m. - Calling all singles over 50!

Meet new friends at Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) in the Hideaway Lounge at the Travelodge, 718 Horizon Drive. Call Beverly at 210-2722 for details.

Tuesdays at 9 a.m. - Early Start Breakfast at Denny’s on Horizon Drive. Visitors welcome. Call Debbie at 245-4995 for details.

Sundays at 12:30 p.m. - Bowling Sunday at Orchard Mesa Lanes, 295 27 Road. RSVP to Bob at 263-8462.

Sunday, March 4 at 4 p.m. - Academy Awards party at the Doubletree Hotel, 743 Horizon Drive. Red carpet pre-show and happy hour begin at 4 p.m.

Awards begins at 7 p.m. RSVP to Lalee at 523-5510.

Saturday, March 10 at 5 p.m. - St. Patrick’s Day potluck in the Lakeside Community Room, 3150 Lakeside Drive. RCS will furnish corned beef—you bring appetizers, side dishes, desserts and BYOB. RSVP required. Call Judie at 639-2197 or sign up at the FAC. Monday, March 19 at 10 a.m. - Tour of the Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, and lunch at the Namaste Nepal Restaurant, 2692 US-50.

RSVP required. Call Jeannie at 241-1478.

Wednesday, March 21 at 2 p.m. - Game Day at Mary’s. RSVP to 242-0630.

Bring a snack.

42 FUN & GAMES

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2018

For the puzzle answers see page 46

FUN & GAMES

MARCH 2018

5 7 1 3 7 8

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

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

39 On the mat 43 Honshu shrine -center 44 Cartoon expletive 45 Hearth bit 46 “Leaving Las Vegas” girl 48 Inappro-priate 51 Prime minister Moro 52 Hoops great Willis 54 Bonanza dad 56 Sacred text of Islam 58 Oliver Twist’s request

FUN & GAMES 43

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

3 4 8 1

2

2

7

Puzzle by websudoku.com

Down 1 Early -socialist presidential candidate Eugene 2 Popular cookie 3 Non-dancer at the dance 4 Ike’s W.W.II domain 5 More humble in status 6 Libyan hot spot 7 “Rag Mop” brothers 8 Matter for the courts 9 Flood 10 Say nay!

11 Port on the Mediter-ranean 12 Annoying facial -movements 13 Come to understand 18 Deuce -topper 19 School builder?

24 President Chester Arthur’s middle name

759 Horizon Dr., Ste. E Grand Junction, CO 81506

1 9

7 6 3 4 9 8 5 2 9 7 1 8 1 1 5 8 3 4 2 4 59 Greek letter 62 Blue 65 Auerbach and Buttons 66 Sovereign state began in 1937 67 Longest river in France 68 Robin’s -residence 69 Paper for the house 70 Single-celled micro-organism

PINNACLE HEARING AID CENTER

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

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

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

64 “Me ___ !”

Absolutely No Obligation SPACE IS LIMITED SO CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT RIGHT AWAY!!

(970) 628-4927 (Horizon Dr. and Crossroads Blvd.)

Turn to page 46 for your puzzle answers

Crossword Puzzle

44 CLASSIFIEDS

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

To Place a Classified Ad...

4 EASY STEPS!



WRITE YOUR AD

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________



❒ Classes ❒ For Sale ❒ Help Wanted



❒ Real Estate for Rent ❒ Real Estate for Sale ❒ Services

❒ Other

PAY FOR IT

❒ Mesa County ......................................................... $29 ❒ Montrose/Delta Counties ...........................................$29 ❒ Both publications...........................................................$49

See your ad online.

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Start running my ad in the month of __________________ for _____ months.

Deadline: 20th of the preceding month

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# ____________________________________ name on card ___________________________________ exp. date ____________ cvc ______ zip ____________ credit card

SEND IT IN

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telephone number

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QUESTIONS? Call us, 970 243-8829 www.BeaconSeniorNews.com



city

Retired/Need Extra Income?

Part-time medical delivery position available. Shift starts at 2:45 a.m. Good driving record and ability to drive manual transmission. Flexibility and dependability essential. Call for details 254-2897.

Learn How CBDs Can Help You Are you a healthcare professional or patient that’s interested in learning about the benefits of CBDs? Call M&M Consulting at 589-2863 to reserve your seat in our free info session on March 27.

SALES PERSON WANTED

Burial Plots Two plots (4 internments) at Memorial Gardens in the Last Supper section. I will pay for transfer. 1/2 price at $4,000. 858-1577.

__________________________________________________

address

Fitness and Workout Classes Baby Boomer Bootcamp! Fun, affordable fitness class! Low impact and able to work around individual needs in a private setting. We also offer individual/personal training.

Trail Life Fitness 970-580-1821, www.traillifefitness.com.

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

writers wanted The Beacon Senior Newspaper is looking for writers in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

FOR SALE

Mail: BEACON, P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Fax: 1 800-536-7516 Email: beacon@pendantpublishing.com name

HELP WANTED

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

GJ - Thursdays, 3/15, 3/29, Rifle – Wednesdays, 3/14, 3/28 Wendy Zaharko, MD, 970-319-0652, z@alumni.princeton.edu.

Your local Western Slope cannabis physician since 2009.

Priced for 30 words or less. Additional Words $1 each.

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EVENTS

Woodworking Classes Now accepting early registration for BEGINNER WOODWORKING classes. Next bi-monthly “Skill-Builder” series starts June 11 through August 25. Limit 5 students. J Lazy 3 School of Woodworking. 261-4513. school@jlazy3cabinetry.net.

CHOOSE A CATEGORY

MARCH 2018

1996 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide, 77,000 miles. Nice bike, runs good. New tires and battery, Arlen Ness electronic ignition, intercom system, tour pack w/ backrest. $6,000.

216-2077.

HOME SERVICES

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation.

Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048.

MARCH 2018

CLASSIFIEDS 45

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Custom Draperies, Blinds and Solar Shades Floor coverings and design services. Interior Monologues, Inc. 234-0040.

Computer Lady, LLC In-home repair. 15 years serving Mesa County. Windows, Internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified.

255-1216.

Remodeling and Foundation Repair. Three generations of quality construction, additions and remodels. Residential/insured. References and free consultations provided. Tom Peters: 261-4303, tompetersconstruction.com.

Roofing Don Fowler Roofing, LLC. Over 30 years’ experience. Licensed and insured. All types of roofs and repairs, including wind damage. Honest, reliable and fair prices. Call 623-1045.

Scene Clearly, LLC Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter!

Grand Junction area. Call Frank Cordova at 242-1264.

MEDICAL

Attention – Oxygen Users New portable oxygen concentrator. Imogen One, G3; approved for air travel. 241-8792

Place your classified ad in next months issue starting at only $29!

Call Stacey at 243-8829 to reserve your space today.

REAL ESTATE GRAND JUNCTION

NEED GLASSREPAIR? REPAIR? No JobJob Too Too SmallSmal NEED GLASS No

2647 El Corona

New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass Mirrors New Windows • Window Repairs • Window Glass TableMirrors Tops • Insulated Glass Shower & Tub Enclosures • Table Tops • Insulated Glass Rescreens & •New Screens & New Screens Shower & Tub Enclosures Rescreens Same dayservice service on on most Same day mostautoglass autoglass

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• Ranch style in quiet 55+ neighborhood • 3 bed, 2.5 bath 2200 E. Main • Grand Junction • Open 8am - 5pm• M-F & Junction 8am - Noon Sat. • All Credit Cards Accep 2200 E. Main Grand • Large bedrooms and office Open 8 am - 5 pm, M-F & 8 am - Noon, Sat. • All Credit Cards Accepted • Custom-built home with all the bells and whistles • Maintenance-free living

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We’ll get you to your appointments

Keller Williams Colorado West Realty Mountain Coast Group

Samuel Hall, 970-623-6051

MILLENIUM SERVICES

samuel@mountaincoastgroup.com

SERVICES

Assistance to Elderly Need help? Shopping, errands, appointments, adult house sitting, housecleaning, laundry, dishes. 1-3 hours to help you. I am trustworthy, compassionate and thoughtful. I have references. Kristin 361-0811.

Cleaning Lady Competitive rates, reliable transportation, will travel. Weekly/biweekly/monthly cleaning, downsizing, reorganizing. Just call to see how I may help you get a fresh start in the new year! Get the house organized!

Linda, 263-7364 or 720-841-7505.

WANTED TO BUY

USED BOOKS , Buy, Sell or Trade Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders.

242-3911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. Located in front of North Ave. Walmart and next to Subway. 10-6 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sunday. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

Call 24-hours a day: (970) 270-9092

Valentine Dance Visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com to see more photos!

The Beac on & Hillt op Senior li ving Com m unities

Singlesme Welco

55+ F E B R U A RY 13 7 :3 0 .p m .- .1 0 :3 0 .p

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46 KUDOS & KVETCH

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

kvetch \ kfech  [This article is in response to “Ketamine therapy: a promising option for treating depression and pain” in January’s BEACON] “Ketamine is a drug approved for use as an anesthetic by the FDA, but not specifically for treatment of pain and depression. There is some concern from medical providers that there are no regulations for using the drug in the manner advertised. The ketamine clinics offer treatments that are not often covered by insurance and patients may have to pay out of pocket.

Since many seniors read the BEACON and rely on the information, I think this would be a service to advise readers to research this drug and consult their own physician before trying this treatment, as well as presenting some of the concerns of the medical community readily available on the internet.”

- Jan L.

FUN & GAMES Game answers from page 43

2 5 6 1 4 3 7 9 8

1 7 9 8 6 5 4 2 3

8 3 4 7 9 2 5 1 6

3 8 5 6 2 4 1 7 9

4 1 7 3 8 9 6 5 2

6 9 2 5 1 7 3 8 4

9 2 3 4 5 1 8 6 7

5 4 8 2 7 6 9 3 1

7 6 1 9 3 8 2 4 5

Puzzle by websudoku.com

I can’t flip my mattress!

kudos \ ku·dos  “I just got the email with the GJ cover—the Jensens are some of our closest friends! Crazy! What a great cover! Can’t wait to see the Browns in Montrose—I saw them at our small group gathering on Wednesday evening and they were warning everyone not to give me their phone numbers because you might end up plastered in the paper!”

- Bruce & Cheryl C.

By Sally Breslin

I

know a few people who make a habit of flipping their mattresses on a monthly basis to avoid the inevitable and much-dreaded mattress sinkhole for as long as possible. I, however, have never flipped my mattress. Not even once.

That’s because it weighs about 900 pounds.

I purchased it six years ago when I finally decided to splurge on a good mattress and box spring—something that might last a little longer than baseball season. No more cheap fabric that would tear if my pajama buttons rubbed against it. No more metal springs popping up like jackin-the-box clowns and impaling my spleen.

No more unfamiliar brands with names like “Snores Galore.” No, this time, I wanted nothing less than a recognizable, high-quality mattress.

I found it at the first furniture store I visited. It was solid with a built-in puffy top like a giant pillow. Even better, it was on sale for half price.

At the clerk’s insistence, I stretched out on top of it. It had been so long since I’d slept on anything that didn’t resemble a topographical map of the Himalayas that I’d forgotten what a level mattress felt like. It was heavenly. I actually could feel my back muscles writing me a thank-you note.

“And watch this!” the clerk said.

He sat down hard on the other side of the bed and bounced a few times.

“Feel anything?” he asked.

I didn’t feel a thing. My side of the bed never moved, not even a smidgen. I was sold.

“I’ll take it!” I shouted as I whipped out my credit card.

“Great!” he said. “Will you be taking it with you today? If not, you have 48 hours to pick it up.”

MARCH 2018

It turned out he had conveniently forgotten to mention that discounted items are strictly cash and carry until after I’d fallen in love with the darn mattress. I could picture myself lugging it on my back out to the car, then hoisting it onto the roof and strapping it down.

“Well, I guess I won’t take it then,” I sighed.

The clerk couldn’t have cared less.

He’d already rushed off to assist another customer—presumably someone who owned an 18-wheeler.

In the end, I spent nearly $2,000 on a famous memory foam mattress that weighed about as much as a cruise ship. I had to buy a new bed frame just to support it. The foam is made to conform to the exact shape of the sleeper’s body, and when you lie down your body sinks into it like it’s quicksand.

Time passed and I learned to love the mattress, especially since it contained nothing that could squeak or poke me. The only problem is its weight. Just lifting the edges whenever I change the sheets is enough to herniate some essential body part.

On the plus side, this mattress will prevent me from ever gaining weight. I’m afraid if I get any heavier, I’ll sink so far into the foam that it will swallow me completely.

So if I ever go missing…please check my mattress. ■

 “I have been very remiss in thanking you and the BEACON for Melanie’s article on the bucket list (“Time to scratch things off the itch list” in January’s BEACON). I have had many positive comments from friends and neighbors. Thank you for giving space for the article and photos. I think Melanie did an excellent job.”

- Mike Perry Cloie: “Hi Mike! You’re very welcome! Melanie did an awesome job.

Thanks for taking the time to share stories of your adventures with us and for collecting those amazing photos. I’m glad you enjoyed it. P.S. It’s nice to see you in All About Travel’s ads as well.”  “I just picked up your BEACON Guide for aging well in Mesa County.

What a wonderful booklet! Lots of contacts and phone numbers. It’s been a real asset to us new people who recently moved to the Grand Valley.”

- Drew R.

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