Montrose-Delta BEACON March, 2016 by BEACON Senior News

MARCH 2016

Vol. 30 No. 3

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MISSION OF COMFORT Handmade hugs for children in need

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Mastectomy Products

MARCH 2015

THIS NEW YEAR

DEVOTE YOURSELF

to creating something that gives you PURPOSE & MEANING

- MITCH ALBOM

EXPLORE THE MANY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT HOPEWEST

HopeWestCO.org

MARCH 2015

EDITORIAL

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Technology is great! Except when it isn’t. By Kevin VanGundy

roduction week at the BEACON Senior Newspaper is our busiest time of the month. For the first time in our production history, we started the week with our server going down. The server is a small box of technological wonder. Inside it is every story we have ever written, all of the photos we’ve ever published and all of the client ads that we have ever built. To give you an idea of its importance, if there were a fire, it’s the only item that I would take time to grab before rushing out of the burning building. This was a bad way to start the week, but there was good news: We had a backup. The Apple server had taken a picture of itself just before its own death. Alas, having just witnessed its master’s own death, that slave-drive decided to commit suicide. A small wave of panic swept over me. It was now noon. We had lost half a day from our production schedule. I’ve heard of this happening to others, but never thought that it would happen to me. A few years ago I subscribed to an off-site backup service. I wasn’t sure if it actually worked. The only thing I could say for sure was that they did charge my credit card every month.

Hallelujah! It was 22 hours later when I left the office. We had lost only one production day. Be forewarned! If there is anything you want on your computer, back it up. And then, back that up.

Grand Junction BeaconFest is April 21 BeaconFest is an annual event where our community comes together to celebrate aging. This year’s Grand Junction show will be Thursday, April 21, from 9 a.m-3 p.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center in downtown Grand Junction. Admission is free!

A few vendor booths remain Does your business sell products or services to our area’s fastest growing boomer and senior population? In addition to being an effective way to meet with them one on one (over 2,800 people attended last year), BeaconFest is also a lot of fun! Please call us at 243-8829 to get information about being a sponsoring vendor at this year’s show.

Montrose BeaconFest will be September 15 If you’re waiting for our annual BeaconFest at the Montrose Pavilion then you can mark your calendars for September 15. ■

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

APRIL 21, 2016 Two Rivers Convention Center

Downtown, Grand Junction • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Learn about Estate Planning at our Free Educational Workshops! Experienced & Compassionate Estate, Trust & Tax Planning Attorneys

Protect Your Family & Assets: Beyond the Basics of Estate Planning Grand Junction: Wednesday, March 9th 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Montrose: Monday, March 14th 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. New Location! Delta: Monday, March 21st 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Later Time! Grand Junction: Tuesday, March 22nd 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Learn the ways to protect what is important to you so you can breathe easier! At this free workshop we’ll be discussing not only will and trust estate plans and advance directives, but in-depth information about how to protect your assets, heirs, special needs beneficiaries and even your pets through specialized trusts.

New Year’s Resolution Check-In: Tips for Staying Financially Fit in 2016

SPECIAL PROGRAM!

Grand Junction: Tuesday, March 8th 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Special program presented by Erin Blue, CMFC®, CRPC® a Financial Advisor from Waddell & Reed. Learn tips to stay on track, it’s not rocket science, but there are some things you should know!

Registration is Required: Grand Junction workshops (our office) - 1250 E. Sherwood Dr. Montrose - Region 10 Area Agency on Aging - 300 N. Cascade. Delta workshops 1501 E. 3rd St. in the Mesa Lakes room in the Oncology Center at Delta Hospital. Sign up by calling (970) 243-8250 or on our website at: www.brownandbrownpc.com

Phone: (970) 243-8250 1250 E. Sherwood Drive, Grand Junction, CO 817 Colorado Avenue, #206, Glenwood Springs, CO

Baird B. Brown ◆ Clara Brown Shaffer ◆ Jamie J. Roth ◆ Paul M. Smith ◆ Shauna C. Clemmer

COVER STORY Last week I got an email about a little girl who was turning 7. She has been diagnosed with Tourettes, autism, ADHD, and severe allergies. According to her mom, she has not let her Binky out of her sight and she fell asleep after her party snuggled in her Binky. Her mom sent me an email: “Thank you ever so much for the awesome blanket you made my daughter. I had never heard of the Binky Patrol before, but wow, what awesome people. You made my little girl’s birthday wish come true. I do not get to see her truly happy and content often, but thanks to Binky Patrol I got to see that today.” - excerpted from binkypatrol. org, notes by Susan Finch, founder of Binky Patrol

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Binky Patrol: Handmade

blankets for children in need

By Liesl Greathouse

o you love to knit, sew, crochet or quilt? Would you like to use your talent for a greater purpose? You can make a huge difference in the lives of children by becoming part of Binky Patrol. A binky is a homemade blanket that can range in size from 3-feet square up to a twin bed size. Binkies are donated to children and teenagers facing tough situations, whether due to illness, homelessness or tragedy. Binkies are comforting reminders that there are people thinking about them. Binky Patrol began in May 1996 in Laguna Beach, California. From its initial five volunteers, Binky Patrol has grown to over 160 chapters nationwide and an estimated 20,000 volunteers of all ages.

Homemade hugs in Montrose In Montrose, the local Binky Patrol chapter is called Homemade Hugs and was established in early 2014. The chapter’s director, Christina Carney, loves to make blankets and help kids at the same time. “Children deal with all kinds of trauma and grief,” she said. “The original Binky Patrol started because they knew that kids going through differ-

ent things need something that is wholly theirs, that they can cuddle with and feel safe. All I want to do is help make kids feel safe.” Before she begins making blankets, Carney checks with local agencies, including Child Protective Services, Dolphin House, Montrose Police Department, HopeWest and other local organizations to see if they are in need of blankets. “I go anywhere the need is greatest,” she said. “For the kids to be able to have a blanket, it makes the whole process less scary.” Before a blanket is donated to an organization or child in need, Carney attaches a tag to each blanket that is made by herself or one of her volunteers, giving proper credit to the people who donated the materials for the blanket. “Having the volunteer names on the blankets helps make it more real for the kids,” she said. “Like when you get a Christmas present, you want to know who it’s from. To see their faces when they get a blanket that is all theirs—it’s like they won the lottery.” Carney’s history of crocheting was

MARCH 2015

an easy avenue to help children through the Binky Patrol. “My mom taught me how to crochet when I was 9 years old,” she said. “She would make blankets to give away and I saw the comfort it gave people and I wanted to continue that gift. She died 15 years ago, so it keeps her memory alive. She was a really cool lady who taught me a lot, so I donate the blankets in her name.” To help the Montrose chapter, people can volunteer to make blankets that are sewn, crocheted, knitted, quilted or fleece-tied. Monetary donations are also welcome, as the money goes toward purchasing supplies, such as yarn, fabric, thread and batting. “I’m overwhelmed with stuff,” Carney said. “While I’m good at what I do, I’m not fast enough. We need more volunteers so we can get more blankets out there.” Carney’s favorite thing about being

MARCH 2015

COVER STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

part of Binky Patrol is the heart of the organization. “I love knowing that something I made gives aid to somebody else,” she said. “I always love that with blankets. I know it’s a comforting gift.”

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication Publisher ..............................Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher....................... Susan Capps Editor............................................. Nancy Ruspil Editor at Large............................... Cloie Sandlin Senior Graphic Designer............ Melissa Trottier Graphic Design/Photography....Katherine Lopez Graphic Design.............................. Karen Jones Account Representative................... Sue Bowen Account Representative................ Sidney Jayne Account Representative...............Carolyn Takos Proofreader...................................... Jan Weeks Cheerleader................................... Genevra Shal Delivery...........................................Cora Gentry Delivery ................................. Lauren VanGundy

Clifton chapter seeks volunteers The Clifton Binky Patrol chapter is a fresh face in the Binky Patrol organization, as the chapter is barely over a year old and still looking for volunteers. “Binky Patrol is devoted to reaching out to needy children, including HIV-positive, drug-addicted, neglected or abused; or children experiencing trauma in any way,” explained coordinator Shelly Amendola, 49. “Binky Patrol volunteers bring a caring, loving touch by creating and delivering handmade blankets to enrich the children’s lives and to meet their most basic needs of warmth, security and comfort.” Amendola’s specialty is fleece tying and crocheting, but the chapter also accepts blankets that have been quilted and knitted. One of the things she most enjoys about the organization is the process of creating the blankets. “When choosing a pattern for crochet, it feels good to try to imagine if it’s one a child would like,” she said. “I also like talking to others about the chapter. I hope to recruit others that would have strengths in the areas I lack. It would help our chapter grow.”

DELTA-MONTROSE BUREAU Delivery...............................................JR Milner Delivery...................................... Brandon Carlile

Binky Patrol Founder Susan Finch (left) and her friend Char (right) at the Bink-A-Thon. Being that the Clifton chapter is so new, Amendola and members are looking for more people who can make blankets, but also people to help build relationships with local agencies, garner financial support and donate supplies. The mission of Binky Patrol hits

close to home with Amendola. “Having grown up through a rough childhood, I found the mission of Binky Patrol to be in line with my values,” she said. “Many children going through tough times can use that little touch to help them feel loved.” ■

For information on the Montrose Binky Patrol, call 964-4250 or email vyper93068@yahoo.com.

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, Montrose and Garfield 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 2016 • All Rights Reserved

For information on the Clifton Binky Patrol, call 462-8300 or email samendola46@gmail.com. Binky Patrol blankets made for children dealing with the loss of a loved one are welcomed by HopeWest.

Cover Photo: After a seven-hour Bink-A-Thon, the Binky Patrol Founder Susan Finch (right) and her friend Char (left) are happily exhausted.

FEATURE STORY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2015

The Good Life By Cheryl Hardy

ecently I met a friend for breakfast at an area restaurant known for its good food, service and atmosphere. Soon my order of one egg over medium, sausage and gluten-free toast arrived. As I cut into my egg, my stomach cringed. The yolk was pale yellow and runny, the white of the egg, though properly cooked, had no structure. There was no flavor. The sausage was dry and commercially seasoned. I immediately recognized that I am seriously spoiled by being able to eat food straight from local farms, food that has not lost nutrients in the time it took for it to be shipped, food that has color and delicious taste, food grown organically. I am spoiled by living in the North Fork of Grand Valley where local, healthy food is widely available to every person through Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) from a number of nearby farms. CSA means that once a week I can go to a local farm and pick a small box of just-harvested vegetables and fruit. I purchase locally grown meat and eggs, as well, at a local store. These flavorful foods are available in North Fork restaurants as well. I couldn’t wait to get back home to the local restaurant that served an egg with a tasty deep, golden yoke and textured, white sausage that was juicy and hand-flavored just right. The homemade jam was so tasty I asked the waitress if it could be purchased by the jar. One such restaurant is The Living Farm in Paonia, owned by Mike Gillespie, chef. Mike serves food brought in fresh daily from his family’s farm by the same name. He flavors the sausage himself and that tasty jam is made by his mom, Lynn. Four generations of the Gillespie family have worked the 132-acre farm since 1938. Mike’s twin brother Ben takes care of raising the turkeys, chickens, beef and pigs sold for meat. Sister Jenny takes care of the egg-layers. Lynn, wife and mom, handles

all things to do with the sheep and husband/dad Tom raises the hay and feed. The farm has a number of greenhouses that allow for early harvest. Lynn said they will have tomatoes the first of June, unheard of at our elevations. Want to grow your own yummy food? Lynn also teaches free online classes on how to grow your own in almost any setting you can imagine – raised beds, hydroponic beds, pots – the ways to grow your own boggles the mind. You can learn more by going to The Living Farm website at thelivingfarm.org. The Thistle Whistle in Hotchkiss is another organic farm. Each week of the growing season, Mark Waltermire emails his CSA members about what is available at the time. Members order what they want and in what quantity. Payment is made on account at the beginning of each season. Members deposit an estimate of what they think they will use. Mark offers small fruits like berries, vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs and flowers. He also has products from goats, chickens and ducks. At his 15-acre farm, he also participates in the English as Second Language (ESL) program sponsored by Delta County. Families who are part of that program come to the farm and learn nutritious, organic methods for how to grow and cook some of the foods they are accustomed to eating in their country of origin. “We get families from all over,” Mark said. The ethnic mix is fascinating. We have families from Madagascar, Bangladesh and China. We have one family of Karen refugees from Thailand that has resettled in Delta. We learn from them and they learn from us. We can have up to 45 people at a visit. Every year, we switch the schedule around to accommodate changing schedules such as school days and times the migrant workers can be here.” Mark also brings in college interns who are studying agriculture-related subjects and he takes his produce to various farmers’ markets. ■

MARCH 2015

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Fresh, nutritious food By Cheryl Hardy

ow would you like to walk out your door and pick from any delicious, organic fruit and vegetables that you wanted? That’s close to reality if you become a member of a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Farmers with CSA programs are found all over the Grand Valley. In Palisade, Field to Fork has an 18-week harvest season and you can choose the box size at the farm or at a pick-up point. Pick-ups can be made at the R-5 school on Wednesdays, located downtown at 7th Street and Grand Avenue, or at the farm at 3526 Front Street from 4 p.m. Friday till dusk and 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The driveway to the farm is between the high school and middle school. Turn up the driveway and cross the tracks. A fruit stand on the farm will be open on weekends until dusk where you can purchase cherries, peaches, apples, pears and all veggies. With 15 acres under cultivation, the mission of the farm is making healthy, nutritious and culturally appropriate food accessible and affordable. The farm is owned and operated by Jess Washkowiak and her husband. “This year we are dedicating our time fully to the CSA, local chefs and other markets,” said Jess. “Right now, we are getting our wheels turning toward good economics. This will be our fifth year.” Check the farm’s website for more details: fieldtoforkcsa.com. Another CSA farm, Borden Farms (bordenfarms.com), is at the south end of the Grand Valley in Delta. The owner, Lynn Borden, said, “We have

a passion to do this. We love what we do and we have a love of really good local food and cooking. We couldn’t find a good enough quality for ourselves so we started growing our own. We have made lots of friends over the years. We love the life, though it is really hard work.” “We usually don’t have more than 150 CSA members each year so that we can give everybody a real generous share,” Borden added. “We are a 16-week CSA and all of it comes from us. We have the widest variety of most any CSA on the Western Slope. We grow incredible tomatoes—we are known for that. We include fruit in our boxes as well, mainly peaches. Everything we offer is typically picked on the same day. By the end of October, we are exhausted and we have three months of down time to plan for the next season.” Among the CSA farms in Montrose, one is called Circle A Garden (circleagarden.com). This farm is owned and operated by Betsy Austin, along with her 91-year-old mother and two sisters. With three acres under cultivation, the farm season runs from the first Saturday in April until mid-December. This is their eleventh season. “We put the food out in four categories,” said Austin. “Members can come out and choose what they want from each. We will have six varieties of carrots, four varieties of turnips and four different colored beets in one category, for example. Eggs can be purchased as well when they are available. We definitely want to connect sources so we don’t have a delivery box system. We want people to come on out and see where their food is grown.” ■

To learn the variable start date of the CSA season, to become a member, or to learn the costs and sizes of food boxes of each Community Supported Agriculture farm listed here, check the websites or call the farmer.

FEATURE STORY

ASK THE OLD BAG

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For the best buy on a New or Used vehicle, check out our

MARCH 2015

ASK THE OLD BAG Advice Column for the Over 50 Crowd By Gayle Lagman-Creswick Dear Old Bag: Friendship ads don’t fly. A new exchange called “Women Only Friendships” is needed. I’m lonely also. I want a person or persons with the same interests. We will know up front that SEX isn’t the #1 issue— friendship is. Everyone knows to pay their own way. Time for something new. Been there. Thank you, D

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Dear D: I am getting more and more emails from women who just want some buddies whom they can call for eating out, going to movies, plays, games, or other activities. Perhaps we could ask our publisher to have a section of the Friendship ads for Friendship Only, or some such name. You have asked that I connect you with the other lonely woman who wrote in, but I cannot. Good luck, OB Dear Old Bag: Last month you heard from a woman who stated she didn’t like it when a man at first meeting was touching her and talking about cuddling, etc. My letter is to let you know that this is not a “woman only” problem. I have faced the same thing with the tables turned. Women hinting about cuddling and always touching and rubbing my arm at our first meeting. Maybe some men like it, but I don’t. I want to get to know a person first, and then if it is mutual, we will progress in a natural way. Thank you, RB

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Dear RB: I had not thought about this being a two-way street...thank you for writing...my readers never cease to surprise and educate me! OB Dear Old Bag: It seems that you have had several readers who are having a hard time “getting on with their life” after a death or divorce. I think your advice was good, and I would like to add a suggestion that they should get

a professional life coach. Coaching is becoming highly popular among younger people to reach their goals. I think it would be really good for older people, too. This is for people who do not need counseling, but could use a boost to get going. I think if you Google for a life coach in your area, you will find one to interview. Shop around, like you would for a dentist or a doctor, until you find one that suits you. Signed, O.G.

Dear O.G.: What a good suggestion. Our church even has a life coach. I still recommend grief support after the death of a loved one. If people don’t grieve, they often stay stuck in their despair for years. After that a coach would be a great idea. Actually, the process of healing after divorce is very much like getting through a death and these people could probably use the same kind of support. Thank you. OB Dear Old Bag: (Excerpt from a longer letter in response to the woman who needed assistance, saying she wanted to live with her son, but the son and his wife felt assisted living would be a better option for her): First, there is a medical

distinction between assisted living and independent living. Readers must learn the differences between these licensed facilities and also the third potential option of skilled nursing. Signed, V

Dear V: I totally agree with you. There are many kinds of sheltered living, from independent to inpatient hospice. I actually teach a class that describes the numerous first-stage, second-stage, and third-stage retirement housing options. I also describe some of the options available when you run out of money for care. OB ■

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

MARCH 2015

THE HEALTHY GEEZER

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Can I stop taking my prescription antibiotics as soon as I start to feel better?

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Healthy Geezer, By Fred Cicetti

ext you’ll tell me you prefer not to cover your mouth when you cough. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily and not completing your prescription are the leading causes of “superbugs,” bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. These superbugs are one of the most serious threats to global public health. The first thing you should know is that antibiotics are used to combat bacteria, not viruses. So, these potent drugs should be used for infections of the ear, sinuses, urinary tract and skin. They’re also used to treat strep throat. They should not be used for viruses that cause most sore throats, coughs, colds and flu. However, each year doctors in the USA write about 50 million antibiotic prescriptions for viral illnesses anyway. Patient pressure is a major cause for these prescriptions. When you don’t finish your prescription, your antibiotic doesn’t kill all the targeted bacteria. The germs that survive build up resistance to the drug you’re taking. Doctors are then forced to prescribe a stronger antibiotic. The bacteria learn to fight the stronger medication. Superbugs are smart, too; they can share information with other bacteria. The antibiotic vancomycin was, for years, a reliable last defense against some severe infections. But some superbugs have figured out how to resist even vancomycin. More than 70 percent of the bacteria that cause hospital-acquired infections

are resistant to at least one of the antibiotics most commonly used to treat them. About 100,000 people die each year from infections they contract in the hospital, often because the bacteria that cause hospital-acquired infections are resistant to antibiotics.

Here’s what you can do about this problem: • Protect yourself by washing your hands often, handling and preparing food safely, and keeping up-to-date on immunizations. • Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. If you cut your treatment short, you kill the vulnerable bacteria, but allow the resistant bacteria to live. • Never take leftover antibiotics from your medicine cabinet or from a friend. The antibiotic might not be the right one to use. And, if it is, you probably won’t have enough pills to kill the germs in your system. This can lead to more resistant bacteria. • Don’t pressure your doctor for antibiotics if you have a viral illness.

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Penicillin, which was introduced six decades ago, was the first antibiotic. It was derived from mold. We now have more than 150 of these drugs. Antibiotics are a class of antimicrobials, a group that includes anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic drugs. Previous treatments for infections included poisons such as strychnine and arsenic. When antibiotics arrived, they were called “magic bullets,” because they targeted disease without harming the host. ■

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

Montrose United Methodist Church 19 S. Park Ave., Montrose, CO

970-249-3716 • montroseumc.org

LAUGHING MATTERS

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LAUGHING MATTERS Cured! Submitted by Susan Capps

An old geezer became very bored in retirement and decided to open a medical clinic. He put a sign up outside that said: Dr. Geezer’s clinic. Get your treatment for $500. If not cured, get back $1,000. Doctor Young, who was positive that this old geezer didn’t know beans about medicine, thought this would be a great opportunity to get $1,000. So he went to Dr. Geezer’s clinic.

Dr. Young: Dr. Geezer, I have lost all taste in my mouth. Can you please help me?? Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from box 22 and put 3 drops in Dr. Young’s mouth. Dr. Young: Aaagh!! This is gasoline! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You’ve got your taste back. That will be $500. Dr. Young gets annoyed and goes back after a couple of days, figuring to recover his money.

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Dr. Young: I have lost my memory, I cannot remember anything. Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from box 22 and put 3 drops in the patient’s mouth. Dr. Young: Oh, no you don’t, that is gasoline! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You’ve got your memory back. That will be $500. Dr. Young (after having lost $1,000) leaves angrily and comes back after several more days. Dr. Young: My eyesight has become weak—I can hardly see anything! Dr. Geezer: Well, I don’t have any medicine for that, so here’s your $1,000 back (giving him a $10 bill). Dr. Young: But this is only $10! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You got your vision back! That will be $500.

MARCH 2015

These great questions and answers are from the days when “Hollywood Squares” game show responses were spontaneous, not scripted . . . Q. Which of your five senses tends to diminish as you get older? A. Charley Weaver: My sense of decency. Q. As you grow older, do you tend to gesture more or less with your hands while talking? A. Rose Marie: You ask me one more growing-old question, Peter, and I’ll give you a gesture you’ll never forget. Q. Charley, you’ve just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year? A. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I’m too busy growing strawberries.

MARCH 2015

LAUGHING MATTERS 11

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Q. During a tornado, are you safer in the bedroom or in the closet? A. Rose Marie: Unfortunately, Peter, I’m always safe in the bedroom. Q. If you were pregnant for two years, what would you give birth to? A. Paul Lynde: Whatever it is, it would never be afraid of the dark. Q. According to Ann Landers, what are two things you should never do in bed? A. Paul Lynde: Point and laugh.

Boss Submitted by Bob Breazeale

Recently, the boss hired this dubious-looking guy from Los Angeles. At the end of his first working day, the boss said to him, “I’ve been watching you work today and I think you’ve done the work of three men.” The guy looked very surprised and could only mumble, “Thank you.” The boss said, “Don’t thank me. The three men I’m thinking of are Larry, Moe and Curly.”

One-Liners

• I tried to catch some fog, but I mist. • They told me I had type-A blood, but it was a typo. • I changed my iPod’s name to Titanic. It’s syncing now. • Jokes about German sausage are the wurst. • I know a guy who’s addicted to brake fluid, but he says he can stop any time.

• Venison for dinner again? Oh deer! • A cartoonist was found dead in his home. Details are sketchy. • I used to be a banker, but then I lost interest. • Haunted French pancakes give me the crêpes. • England has no kidney bank, but it does have a Liverpool.

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Colors of New England

• This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I’m sure I’d never met herbivore. • When chemists die, they barium. • I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. I just can’t put it down. • I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words. • I didn’t like my beard at first. Then it grew on me. • Did you hear about the cross-eyed teacher who lost her job because she couldn’t control her pupils. • What do you call a dinosaur with an extensive vocabulary? A thesaurus. • I dropped out of Communism class because of lousy Marx. • I got a job at a bakery because I kneaded dough. • Velcro - what a rip off! • Don’t worry about old age; it doesn’t last. ■

Hahaha

s U e k a M

! h g u a L

Send your JOKES to

Beacon@pendantpublishing.com or

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

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P.O. Box 2142 • Montrose, CO 81402 Specializing in Escorted Local, National & International Senior Group Travel!

Phone (970)

240-3020

Email: mkrabbe@montrose.net

TRAVEL

MARCH

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Young Peruvian girls in tradit ional cost umes

Story & photos by Melanie Wiseman

very time someone asks me how our recent trip to Peru was, I find myself speechless (a rare occurrence for me). The experience is truly difficult to put into words. Peru is a feast for the senses. Arrive there with your heart, mind and senses open and empty, and you will leave refreshed and overflowing with new

and exciting sights, tastes, sounds, colors, textures, music, dance, art, architecture, and history, and a people and country you will have fallen in love with. My husband, Dan, and I met our knowledgeable and witty guide, Raul Jaimes, and 12 other travelers from across the United States, in Lima, where our journey began. The goal was not to just visit Peru, but to be immersed within the culture and people for truly meaningful and memorable experiences. “Expect the unexpected,”

Raul teaching us about the ancient Inca city, Pisac, and farming terraces

Cusco Cathedral and city in background

Raul said. “Don’t expect things to be like the United States, and you will enjoy Peru. Eat and do Peruvian things. Be flexible and ready for anything.” Excellent advice from a native Peruvian who has been leading tours of Peru for 15 years. The 14 of us took his advice to heart and thoroughly enjoyed bonding over shared meals and adventures throughout the next 10 days.

THE FOOD Every meal in Peru created a taste bud explosion. Each dish was a work of art, served with impeccable presentation and outstanding service. Trips into the country brought sights of mile after mile of groomed, patchwork-quilt fields of potatoes (3,000 varieties), quinoa, corn, lupine beans

and more. Peru’s daily openair markets display a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, flowers, spices, breads and meats. I may not have finished all of the Peruvian specialties I was introduced to, but am proud to say that I tried every single one. From the special occasion delicacy of Guinea Pig, to smoothie-type drinks made with raw fish or dehydrated frog, to alpaca steak, to corn beer.

THE PEOPLE

There are not enough words to describe the colorful and warm people of Peru. Whether in Lima, 10 million people, or Cusco, 300,000, or the small communities along the Sacred Valley, the people of Peru have a calm, simple and satisfied temperament and lifestyle. Still considered a developing country, Peru may not be wealthy, but they are a proud people, rich in tradition, culture n wom and history, including Per uv ia on a a unique mix of early

H 2015

history, the Inca era, Colonial Period, independence from Spain and modern influences. Peruvians are hard working and industrious. Countrysides are scattered with people plowing behind oxen, and herding sheep. With no welfare system and no begging, not having a job means you automatically become a creative entrepreneur. Silver, gold and copper mining lead their economy, followed by farming and tourism. “Mortgages are rare and most homes are “Build as you go, as money allows,” said Raul. “All families have pigs. They are like an ATM. You need money quick, you butcher and sell a pig.”

les vegetab h s e r f ll men se street a Cusco

TRAVEL 13

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Sales tax of 18 percent provides free health care and voting is not optional, or you face a fine. Peruvians love their soccer to such an extreme, Raul humorously pointed out soccer stadiums as “cathedrals.” Peruvians have great respect for Mother Earth and are thankful for clouds, which mean rain and life. The sun also represents life to them—past, present and future. They are not loud or boastful, but modest and playful. They carry their affection freely, linking arms lovingly, laughing as they make their way down busy sidewalks. Every child holds the hand of an older sibling or parent. Strollers are non-existent; babies are swaddled contently on their mothers’ back. A warning to all Peruvian travelers, Raul said, “In Peru we say our traffic signs are suggestions.” Seriously, make a note.

HISTORY, ART AND CULTURE Our daily guided tours took us through history both past and present. At the presidential palace in Lima we witnessed the ceremonial, high-kicking changing of the guards and impressive band. Tours of museums, plazas,

Chinatown, a historic monastery and cathedrals rounded out our experience. A spectacular flight over the Andes to Cusco, the spiritual and political center of the Incan people, was a wonder to behold. I’m sure my face imprint is still on the window next to my seat. We were now in a land that included not only the most well known of the exquisite Inca engineering sites, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley, but literally an area thick with ancient Inca sites, some that can only be reached by foot or horseback. Our two-day excursion through Machu Picchu was breathtaking and included trekking five miles of the rugged Inca Trail, discovering the mysteries that still surround this historic city high in the “cloud forest.” It remains an area of study, theory and speculation as to this city’s precise, detailed construction, the people who lived there and their lifestyle. We were thrilled to climb and experience several other unique and utterly amazing Inca sites that once had been adorned with gold and silver. Brilliantly colorful. Those words quickly come to mind when reminiscing about Peru’s art and culture. Every waking moment, your visual senses are stimulated continuously—from clothing and weavings, hair and hats, baskets, pottery, jewelry, paintings, manicured

Modified motor cycle taxi

farms, green terraced mountainsides, Eucalyptus forests and seas of red-tiled roofs.

HANDS ON Highlights for everyone in the group were the opportunities to roll up our sleeves and really experience Peru, behind the scenes, up close and personal. We spent an afternoon cooking, talking, playing and eating with a gracious Peruvian family who opened their home to us. We donned aprons to pound and roll dough at a village bakery, where hundreds of loaves of bread were then baked quickly before our eyes in a deep, outdoor wood-burning oven. In the small weaving-based community of Chinchero, we were treated to lunch with the weavers, followed by hands-on demonstrations of spinning, dying and weaving alpaca fibers. Five of the days were spent at altitudes between 7,000 and 12,000 feet, but were surrounded by mountains up to 19,000 feet. We traveled by mini-bus, raft, train, modified motorcycle taxis and foot. At the end of our journey, we said good bye to Raul and our new family of travel companions, knowing we will always share special memories, and the strong possibility of future adventures together. ■

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What to do when an inheritance is coming your way By Teresa Ambord

n inheritance can be a wonderful thing, but it won’t be without challenges. Depending on how you handle it, it could be an American dream or a waking nightmare. Everyone has heard horror stories of the person who comes into a bundle of money and soon ends up in worse shape than ever, possibly from an impulsive shopping spree, a sure-thing investment gone bad, or an unscrupulous adviser. Now that it’s your turn, don’t be the next horror story. Whether the inheritance you’re expecting is substantial or modes—there are steps you should take to help you make the most of it. Here’s some guidance.

What will you inherit and when? This is why Dan Carlson, artist and owner, has been customizing memorials since 1976. Every memorial is designed, engraved and installed by our craftsmen to insure the highest quality from start to completion. It is our commitment to assist you and your family during this difficult time and hope to ease the experience with kind, compassionate professionalism. We are honored to help you select the appropriate memorialization that will last through the ages for someone special. Your memorial will serve as a source of historical record for future generations.

MARCH 2015

The estate executor will have this information. Generally an inheritance is not received all at once, but in pieces, so don’t rush to encumber the money by signing a purchase contract.

Whose advice will you take? Assemble a small team of trusted advisers: a financial planner, an estate planner and a tax specialist. Check out their track records independently and then talk over your goals with them before you let them touch your money.

How does the inheritance fit with your existing assets? If you’re nearing retirement, you may already have a well-planned portfolio with an asset allocation appropriate for you. Most experts agree that, as retirement approaches, you should minimize your risk, generally by having the bulk of your money in high-quality bonds, a smaller amount in stocks, and some in cash. Suppose you’re within a few years of retirement when Uncle Buck

leaves you a large amount of stocks. You’re grateful, but your asset allocation is now skewed. Don’t rush to sell. You’ll need to sit down with your advisers and rebalance your portfolio, being careful not to trigger a tax bill.

What are the tax implications if you sell inherited property? Tax law favors those who sell inherited assets soon after receiving them, but check with your tax adviser to make sure you won’t owe capital gains tax on the sale. It’s important to view your current tax situation as a whole, before you make decisions about the disposition of new assets. If you are already looking at capital gains and losses, you may be able to mitigate the overall tax consequences with careful timing. That’s why planning your moves with your tax specialist is critical.

Are you already working to reduce your taxable estate? If you’ve been systematically reducing your taxable estate—by gifting or transferring assets—you know an inheritance can blow those efforts. You can step up your reduction plan, or you can turn down the inheritance and still keep the assets in the family. Ask your attorney about filing a disclaimer that will allow the inheritance to bypass you and go straight to the next in line, presumably your heir. However, before you do that, make sure the decedent has not named an alternate beneficiary in his/her will. As you wait for your inheritance, slow down. Plan carefully with the guidance of quality advisers, and you could end up being the smart one— not the next horror story. ■

MARCH 2015

HOME & GARDEN 15

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How can I improve the health and look of my landscape?

Garden Smarts, By Kathy Kimbrough Q. My trees had aphids last year. Is there anything I can do to keep them from coming back this year? The most effective and least harmful way to kill aphids, mites and scale on shade and fruit trees is the use of horticultural oils. These are mineral oils that have had all impurities removed. The oils block the air holes on insects causing asphyxiation or they are poisonous to the insects causing death. It is best to apply horticultural oils right before bud break in the early spring and when there is no rain in the forecast. Be sure temperatures are not freezing, as this will cause the oils to break down and produce uneven coverage.

Q. I have several peach trees on my property. When is the best time to prune them and what is the best way to prune them? The best time to prune any fruit tree is early spring before bud break. The first

thing you should remove is any dead, diseased or crossing branches. Use alcohol or a bleach solution on your pruning tools between cuts to minimize spread of infections. Thin the center of the tree to increase sunlight and air circulation, which will in turn increase fruit production. For more information on pruning fruit trees, please refer to CSU Extension Fact Sheet # 7.003

Q. I am starting a new vegetable garden this spring. The spot I want to use is in the sun most of the day. It is now covered with grass. What steps should I take to prepare the soil for vegetables? Congratulations on starting your own vegetable garden. With a little work to get your soil in good shape, you will be harvesting delicious vegetables in no time. In a perfect world, you would have tilled the lawn under last October and allowed it to decompose over the fall, winter and early spring months.

Since it is already March, I would suggest removing the lawn completely and rototill 2-3 inches of quality organic matter to a depth of 6-8 inches in the new vegetable bed. Be sure the soil is not too wet or dry when rototilling.

Regular additions of organic soil amendments will improve yields and quality of your vegetables. You should aim for 4-5 percent organic matter in your soil over time. Additional benefits of adding organic matter to your soils are that it increases oxygen levels and improves drainage in clay soils. In sandy soils, organic matter holds in water and nutrients. It also encourages beneficial organisms such as earthworms to stay in your soil and improve soil compaction. Consider building a compost bin to start making your own quality compost from yard and garden debris. ■

GARDEN CHECKLIST:  Don’t start your seeds too early for warm season flowers and vegetables, especially tomatoes! Most annual flowers and vegetables should be sown indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost, which is roughly the first week in April for the Grand Valley.  If a cold-frame isn’t available to start early cold-season vegetables, wait until soil temperatures have warmed to 40 degrees F, at a depth of 4 inches at 8 am. Then it will be safe to sow seeds of peas, lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, kale, onion sets, cauliflower, radicchio, spinach, carrots, beets, radishes, turnips and Swiss chard.  Prune summer-blooming shrubs, those that bloom on the current season’s growth, in late March or early April before new growth begins. (Examples: Blue Mist Spirea, summer-blooming Spirea, Butterfly Bush)  Save the Date - Landscapes West Outdoor Living Conference March 18 - 19, at Two Rivers Convention Center.

PLANT OF THE MONTH—Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) These beautiful but under-used bulbs are a sure sign of spring, with blooms arriving as early as late February. Tiny, perfect-white flowers are bell-shaped and grow four inches tall and wide. They are very effective when planted en masse where they can naturalize, such as in lawns under large deciduous trees. Large clumps of these versatile beauties would also look great along a flagstone path or among cacti or succulents in rock gardens. Plant bulbs in the fall at a depth of three times the height of the bulb. They are hardy to USDA Zone 3 and appreciate full sun to partial shade.

Come in and see what we can do for you! Marilynn Huseby

301 Main Street Delta CO, 81416 ♦ director@deltacolorado.org www.deltacolorado.org Find us on Facebook

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MARCH 2015

A grandparent’s surprise By Joyce Corley

t 49, becoming a grandparent was one of the last things I anticipated. Being a parent and a teacher for many years left me relatively unscathed, and now it was time for me to live my life with the objectives I had personally set for myself. I still felt vibrant and alive, and I had worked hard to become successful, so we had a little money to splurge on travel and other cultural expeditions that we had always been too busy to pursue. We travelled extensively during the summers when I had a month off work from my school district, and we enjoyed every moment. My family was always concerned about our being gone so much. When my son married and announced they were expecting a child later that year, I was actually surprised. Of course we all anticipated the baby’s arrival, but one of my biggest concerns was what it would mean to me. What would my friends think? After all, I would be the first of my

group to have a grandchild. What should I have the child call me? I definitely didn’t want to be called GRANDMA! It sounded so archaic. I announced at a family dinner that I wanted to be called Grand’Mere or Nana! They all just rolled their eyes. All of these concerns raced around my head as the baby’s due date approached. I also wondered about the personality and talents of this little one. Would he or she love me, or even like me? In early September a healthy baby girl arrived—Jessica! We were so excited, and we all talked to Jessica through the observation window in the hospital nursery, telling her who we were. Suddenly everyone stopped talking and stared at me. “What?” I asked. My son and husband both laughed, “You just said you were Grandma!” I, too, was surprised to hear myself say that—but gee, it was true, wasn’t it? Isn’t it amazing what babies can do to you? How could such a little creature change your whole perspective? ■

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Life’s Legacy in Stone

For the puzzle answers see page 23

FUN & GAMES

MARCH 2015

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 17

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3 4 8 1

7 1 9

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

Puzzle by websudoku.com

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 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

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 ___ !”

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

APRIL 21, 2016 Two Rivers Convention Center Downtown, Grand Junction • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Turn to page 23 for your puzzle answers

Crossword Puzzle

MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES ASSISTED LIVING

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MARCH 2015

Delta/Montrose Calendar MARCH 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Black Canyon Woodcarvers Group Join our informal group and hand carve a variety of items (animals, caricatures, toys, etc). Learn techniques from each other. Bring your own supplies. Call Janet at 323-5860 for more information. The fee is $1/week for the purchase of bulk wood, flowers and get well cards for members. Meet from 1-3 pm at the Senior Center Computer Room. MARCH 3 & 15 Parkinson’s Disease Therapy Techniques A physical and voice therapy program at Horizons Healthcare is helping patients with Parkinson’s disease to improve function and slow motor deterioration by retraining sensory, motor and cognitive functions through intensive exercise and patient empowerment. The LSVT Big & Loud therapy program trains patients to make bigger movements and teaches the amount of effort required to produce normal movements and voice in real-world, everyday activities. Sponsored by Volunteer of America, Region 10 ADRC, presented by Suzie Stramel, Physical Therapist and Christi Masimer, Speech-Language Pathologist. March 3 from 12:45- 1:45 pm, Montrose Senior Center (Montrose Pavilion) and March 15 from 4-5 pm, Region 10 Building, 300 N Cascade Ave, Sneffels Conference Room. MARCH 5 Line Dancing Lessons for Beginners Learn to line dance with volunteer instructor Jan Cook. Jan is teaching each Saturday in March and April 2 and 9th. Try something new or refresh your dance skills! After learning how to line dance, we encourage you to join our line dancing group that meets at the Senior Center on Monday nights. 12:30-1:30 pm at the MRD Aquatic Center Apex and Omni Rooms FREE! Instructor: Jan Cook

MARCH 7, 14, 28 Line Dancing The 1st, 2nd and 4th Monday nights. Meets from 4-6 pm at the Montrose Senior Center; The third Monday night meets at 6 pm. The fee is a $2 donation. Instructor: Gilbert Cascante. MARCH 7, 14, 21, 28 Jam Session & Sing Along Join us if you play an instrument and/ or sing! This is a casual group that you can attend as your time permits. Each person gets a turn to pick and lead a song and others play along. This is a free get-together that takes place on Mondays from 4-6 pm at the Montrose Senior Center located at 1800 Pavilion Drive. Call Cindy at 252-4884 if you have questions. MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 Crafty Chatty Group Bring your UFOs (unfinished objects) and socialize while you work. Make new friends with similar talents and interests. Stuck? Get help with your project from other crafters. No project? Come to socialize and get your creative juices flowing. You may find a project that looks like fun to you. No charge to join this group. Bring your own materials. Call Judy at 249-7198 or Joan at 249-8580 for more information. Meet from 9:45-11:30 am at the Senior Center Craft Room. MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 Circle of Friends Creative Arts Bring your favorite art or craft project. Share your skills with others. Learn new skills and make new friends. It’s informal, it’s fun and it’s free! For more information, call Charleen at 964-4317 or Barb at 249-1838. Meet from 8:30 am-Noon at Meadowlark, 2378 Robins Way. MARCH 8, 22 Chair Massage – Now offered twice per month! Treat yourself to a relaxing 15-minute massage with our certified mas-

MARCH 2015

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sage therapists. Discover the many health-enhancing benefits of massage therapy. Massage has an impressive range of therapeutic effects that work to improve health and well being. Certified Massage Therapist Dan Mohr on the second Tuesday. Certified Massage Therapist Michele Grimmett on the fourth Tuesday. Call Cindy to schedule an appointment at 252-4884. The fee is $8 for ages 50+, $15 under 50.

MARCH 10 Hike – Colorado National Monument Join us for a scenic hike at the Colorado National Monument. Bring a sack lunch, wear sunscreen and good hiking footwear. Meet at the Senior Center. Time is from 9:15 am-3:30 pm. The fee is $18. Bring a sack lunch. MARCH 11 Reflexology Foot Therapy Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on your feet to help heal the whole body. It helps improve circulation, promotes better health and rejuvenate your body and soul. Certified Reflexologist: Cheryl Adams. Time is 8:30 am-Noon at the Senior Center. Appointments required. Call Cindy at 252-4884 to schedule. The fee is $15 for 20 minutes. MARCH 12 Seniors Night Out Pot Luck The fee is a $2 donation to cover prizes, paper goods, drinks and ice cream. 4 pm – Bingo for Montrose Bucks vouchers 4 pm – Jam Session 5 pm – Potluck (bring a dish to share), Pinochle 5:45 pm – Hand and Foot, Billiards 6-8 pm – Line Dancing

MARCH 14, MONTROSE Beyond the Basics of Estate Planning Protect your family and your assets. Learn the differences between will and trust estate plans and incorporate pow-

ers of attorney into your estate plan. Eliminate uncertainties so your legacy lives on with your loved ones. Sponsored by Region 10/ADRC and Brown and Brown P.C. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. 300 N. Cascade, Montrose. Registration required: region10.net/calendar or call 765-3128.

MARCH 14 Powerful Tools for Caregivers This six-week educational series is designed to provide caregivers with the tools to take care of themselves. This program helps family caregivers reduce stress, improve self-confidence, communicate feelings better, balance their lives, increase their ability to make tough decisions and locate helpful resources; led by Sandy Walker and Jane Dupree. Participants receive “The Caregiver Help Book.” Classes start Monday, March 14, from 1-3:30 pm at the Delta Hospital Oncology Center. Cost: For ages 60+, we request a donation of $25.00, but not required; under 60, cost is $25. For more information or to register, contact Sandy Walker at 7653131, Sandy@region10.net. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. MARCH 15 Time Bank of the Rockies/Volunteer program presentation How does the Time Bank work? For every hour you spend providing support to another member, you earn a time credit to be used to receive a service from another Time Bank member, not necessarily the same person you assist. Although some skills are generally perceived as having a higher value than others, the Time Bank recognizes that everyone is equal no matter what job they perform. The goal is to build healthier communities based on mutual respect for everyone’s efforts, talents and skills. Sponsored by Time Bank of the Rockies and Region 10. 5:30-7 pm at Region 10, 300 N Cascade Ave. Montrose. If you can, bring your laptop. For information and to register, call Cynthia at 209-6886.

MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES 19 MARCH 17 AARP Driver Safety Course, Montrose Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws. This is a half-day course. Sponsored by AARP SMART Driver’s Program at the Montrose County Health and Human Services, 1845 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose. Membership in AARP is not required. 8:30 am-1 pm. The fee is $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. Pre-registration required. Contact: Region 10, 765-3128.

of aging. If you or someone you know is affected by Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, it’s time to learn the facts. This program provides information on detection, possible causes and risk factors, stages of the disease, treatment and much more. Sponsored by Region 10/ADRC, Volunteers of America and the Western Slope Alzheimer’s Association. 2-4 pm. Free at Paonia Library, 2 3rd St. Registration is required and space is limited to 30. Call Region 10’s ADRC Delta office at 399-3615 or register online at region10.net/calendar.

MARCH 19, 20 Pickleball Madness - must register by March 9 Register now for Pickleball Madness 3.0 and below; Doubles; Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Pickleball Tournament. Get a taste of tournament play and meet some old or new players. This tournament will be held at Bill Heddle’s Recreation Center on March 19 & 20. Event could be played outdoors, weather permitting. The cost is $35 per player and includes a Tournament shirt, lunch, and munchies/drinks. The registration deadline is March 9 at noon. You must sign up with partner to guarantee team is entered. For more information call Bill Heddles Recreation Center at 874-0923.

MARCH 29 Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior This program provides participants with a four-step model to address behavioral aspects of dementia, details the model and applies it to some of the most common behaviors associated with the disease. Sponsored by Region 10 ADRC, Volunteers of America and the Western Slope Alzheimer’s Association; Tuesday, March 29 from 2 to 4 pm. Free. Location: Paonia Library, 23rd St. Registration is required and space is limited to 30. Call Region 10’s ADRC Delta office 399-3615 or register online at region10.net/calendar.

MARCH 21, DELTA Beyond the Basics of Estate Planning Protect your family and assets. Learn the differences between will and trust estate plans, and incorporate powers of attorney into your estate plan. Eliminate uncertainties so your legacy lives on with your loved ones. Sponsored by Region 10/ADRC and Brown and Brown P.C. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free at the Delta Oncology Center, 1501 3rd St. Registration required; space is limited to 30. Call Region 10’s ADRC Delta office 399-3615 or register online at region10. net/calendar. MARCH 22 The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part

MARCH 29 Orvis Hot Springs Plus Lunch in Ridgway Orvis Hot Springs has seven soaking areas that range in temperature from 98 to 112 degrees. Bathing suits are required in the indoor pool. All of the outdoor pools are bathing suit optional. People must wear a towel, robe, or modest covering in the hallways of the main building. The natural lithium water will allow you to rest, relax and feel rejuvenated when you leave. We will have lunch in Ridgway following a morning soak. 9:45 am-2 pm $27 fee, and bring money for lunch. Meet at the Aquatic Center at 12:45 pm. ■

20 MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES

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SAVE THE DATE!

2016 Caregiver Summit & Retreat Thursday, May 19, 2016 8:30am–4pm

Brought to you by

Held at the Grace Community Church in Montrose, at 16731 Woodgate Road. For more information or to pre-register, call 970-765-3128 or go to www.Region10.net.

WHATEVER THE TIME OF YEAR

When you need us, we’ll be here for you. NEW THERAPY FOR PARKINSONS SUSIE STRAMEL & CHRISTI MASIMER

THURSDAY, MARCH 3 @ 1:00pm CURRENT WORLD EVENTS PRESENTED BY PAUL WAHL

MONDAY, MARCH 14 @ 1:00pm Activities Calendar Info:

970-252-4889

Meal Reservations:

970-252-7797

Funeral Service & Crematory Mesa View Cemetery 682 1725 Road • Delta (970) 874-9988 105 S.E. Frontier, Suite F • Cedaredge (970) 856-3232 209 Bridge Street • Hotchkiss (970) 872-3151 311 Grand Avenue • Paonia (970) 527-3836 www.taylorfuneralservice.com

MARCH 2015

Montrose/Delta Beacon Bits, Clubs & Activities The Center for Mental Health Wins Pinnacol Assurance’s Worksite Wellness Incentive The Center for Mental Health has had a robust worksite wellness program for the past four years. The wellness program improves employee health and provides incentives to participate in wellness-related activities. This year, because of its robust worksite wellness program, the Center for Mental Health, competing against 22 similarly sized businesses, won Pinnacol Assurance’s Worksite

Wellness Incentive for the fourth quarter of 2015. At least 83 percent of Center employees participated – a number well above the national average.

“Rabbit Hole” presented at Magic Circle Magic Circle Theatre presents “Rabbit Hole,” a drama about a broken-hearted family learning to live beyond a shattering accident that took the life of an only child. Opens March 11 for three weekends of performances: Fridays and Saturdays March 11 and 12, and March 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 7:30 pm. Sunday matinees are March 13 and 20 at 2 pm. Online tickets sales for the general public open March 8 at magiccircleplayers.com. General public ticket sales by phone at 249-7838, or in person at the box office, 420 S. 12th St., Montrose, beginning March 8 from 2-5 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Volunteer Ceramics Instructor Needed We are seeking a volunteer ceramics instructor to teach on Wednesdays at the Montrose Senior Center located in the Pavilion. Our current instructor of 15 years is retiring in May. We are looking for a person who has access to inexpensive greenware or bisque for students to purchase. We have a kiln on site. Classes run September through May. Instructor would begin in September 2016. Call Cindy at 252-4884 for more information. Join the new Cribbage Club We are trying to organize a cribbage group at the Montrose Senior Center. Call Michelle at 252-7243 if you are interested in playing. Cribbage is a fun and easy game that involves a playing board to keep score. Players make combinations of cards that form pairs, triples and sums that add to 15 and score points. It is a great game to maintain your mental acuity and stay socially active. Cards and boards provided. Days: 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays, 1-3 pm. Free at the Senior Center Dining room.

MARCH 2015

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Intro to Pickleball Clinics Try out one of the fastest growing sports in the country! Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines the elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. This game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast paced, competitive game for experienced players. Learn the rules of the game, keeping score, court positioning and paddle technique. The fee is $10/ person. Tennis Courts at the Aquatic Center. Instructor Doug Rood. Call Cindy at 252-4884 to register.

REGION 10 EDUCATION SERIES Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado (ADRC) – This group is a six-county collaboration of businesses, community members, caregivers, and volunteers that serve and work with the aging and disabled populations. The goals are to enhance programs, reduce gaps, and increase access to resources. Anyone serving these populations is encouraged to join the collaboration; monthly meetings held the 2nd Tuesday. Next meeting March 8, 9:30 am, 300 N. Cascade Ave., Montrose. Call Eva for more information, 765-3127. Caregiver Support & Networking Group Montrose – Come and enjoy a safe, supported, resource-filled, and confidential environment for caregivers to learn from one another about the challenges and rewards of caring for loved ones with dementia, illness, or disability. Groups meet 1:30 - 2:30 pm the 1st Wednesday & the 3rd Thursday of every month, sponsored by Region 10 ADRC Cost: Free. Location: Region 10, 300 N. Cascade Ave. For more information call Amy Rowan 765-3123. Kinship Connections for Kids Support Group – This support/networking group is structured for persons raising children that are not their own. Group meets the 1st Thursday from 6-8 pm. Sponsored by Region 10. Each session will have a different educational topic along with group support. No cost. Location: Region 10, 300 N. Cascade. Call Eva Veitch at 765-3127 for information. Application Assistance Clinics/ Montrose – Region 10, Senior Community Care PACE and SHIP Medicare

Counselors are hosting free clinics to help seniors or persons with a disability to fill out applications for benefits. 2nd and 4th Tuesday from 1 - 2:30 pm, 300 N. Cascade Ave. Call Amy Rowan for more information 765-3123.

MONTROSE/DELTA COUNTIES 21

BOOTHS AVAILABLE

Resources for Long-Term Care Planning for long-term care does not mean planning for the nursing home. Long-term care planning is looking at a variety of benefits, services and supports systems to support aging in place. Most long-term care is not medical care, but assistance with the basic personal and everyday tasks of everyday life. We will discuss available benefits and services, and how to access them. Sponsored by Region 10 ADRC, Colorado Retirement Services, and Delta County Options for Long Term Care. Date/Time/Cost: Tuesday, March 1 from 10:30 11:30 am. Free. Location: Delta Oncology Center 1501 3rd St. Registration is required and space is limited to 30. Call Region 10’s ADRC Delta office 399-3615 or register online at region10. net/calendar. ■

970-249-7838

MagicCirclePlayers.com Felicia Sabartinelli • Troy Lee Reymi Kidder • Rachel Deans Krute & Evan Dollarhide Star in

Rabbit Rabbit Rabbit

by David Lindsay-Abaire

Enjoy the area’s largest boomer & senior fair...

April 21, 2016

FREE Admission, Entertainment, Seminars, Food

Promote Your Business Over 100 Vendors Over 2,500 Attendees

Directed by Dave Olson and Stasia Allyn

Evening Performances - 7:30 PM March 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26 Sunday Matinees - 2:00 PM March 13 & 20 purchase tickets online at MagicCirclePlayers.com

Available to the Public March 4th

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Two Rivers Convention Center

For information call 243-8829

22 CLASSIFIEDS

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sales person wanted 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

HOME TO SHARE IN MONTROSE smoke-free, convenient to senior center, new rec center, shopping. Private bedroom, bath. Quiet, upper middle class neighborhood. $700/mo + ½ utilities. Contact chipeta252@ msn.com with your information and questions.

writers wanted

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The Beacon Senior newspaper is looking for writers in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com

GOT GRANDKIDS? Got Grandkids? Call Deborah Williams to bring creative activities for ages 3-7. Giant bubbles! Volcanoes! Slime! See Rubber Ducky Hands-On Fun on Facebook. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday. Call 366-0397.

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CAMP MANAGER The Trustees for the Grand Mesa Christian Camp, located on the south shore of Baron Lake, are looking to hire a camp manager for this next summer. Work would begin mid-June through mid-August and weekends the latter part of August through most of September. Please call Jim Mackley at 242-4794 or Max Stites at 256-7797 for details.

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PASCO/SW, INC.

Skilled and unskilled homemaking and/or personal care. Skilled nursing, specialize in wound care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, CNA, social work, pre-op, post-op services. PASCO/SW carriers certification for Mi, children’s hospice and Tbi waivers. Please call for courtesy evaluation of your home care needs. Serving: Archuleta, Delta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel Cortez (970)565-6833; Durango (970) 247-1211; Montrose (970) 240-1771; Toll Free (877) 685-6833

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MAYFIELD SENIOR CARE, LLC. Two openings for private pay clients. Professional and compassionate home care including cooking (from scratch), light housekeeping, laundry, assistance to appointments, shopping, office administration, pet care. Insured and Local References. 683-1414.

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QUESTIONS? Call us M-TH, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • FRI, 9 a.m.-Noon 970 243-8829 • www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

MARCH 2015

WANTED TO BUY HELP! I NEED A GOOD, RUNNING CAR in good condition, as new as possible and as few miles as possible, please. I am in my 70s and live on Social Security. Write: GRACE, PO Box 2905, Grand Jct, CO 81502 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** CASH PAID FOR OLD STUFF Wind-up men’s wrist/pocket watches, gold and silver jewelry, pocket/ hunting knives, antique firearms, fishing gear, toys, BB guns, old Colorado bottles, old motorcycles, radios and amps, railroad, military, mining items. Cash2015@charter. net OR www.cash4oldstuff.net. Mark 260-2327.

MARCH 2015

It’s our Montrose hospital By Paul Janzen

KUDOS & KVETCH 23

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

t’s not widely known that Montrose Memorial Hospital (MMH) is a non-profit hospital held in trust for the citizens of Montrose. Simply put, we own the hospital. Some pretty good thinking went into getting us to that point. What about our hospital? If it’s ours, is it good? The answer seems an unreserved yes. It has won several prestigious national awards; one for the third time in four years, and another for the fourth year in a row, recognized as a five-star hospital by Cleverley + Associates, a leading healthcare financial consulting firm. Only two hospitals in the state were honored with this award. That puts Montrose Memorial Hospital in the top 20 percent of hospitals nationwide. There’s another metric above national recognition that, as patients, we may like as much. That concerns infection rates. We all want the cleanest, safest hospital possible. Our hospital is outstanding in this regard! It has onethird or less the infection rate as other Colorado hospitals, and Colorado has some very good hospitals. That’s not possible through miracles of modern medicine. It’s a result of caring, hard work, and attention to hygiene and sanitation by a dedicated staff. Besides good care, there’s another positive side to owning our hospital. The money it earns gets invested right here in our community. It doesn’t get siphoned off as shareholder dividends to a chain in some distant state. It also means that reinvestment of its earnings can be dedicated to our local needs. Consider that the hospital has a 100 million dollar budget, and net earnings over 2.6 million dollars a year. That’s a pretty significant amount of money being spent locally; 40 million is in salaries. MMH employs some 664 medical and support staff, and over a 100 physicians, representing over 23 medical specialties. You’ve probably noticed the ever-increasing number of medical buildings and practitioner

offices surrounding the hospital, as well as the Care Flight helicopter on the roof. An important benefit of owning our hospital is that the doctors are living here. They’re not on rotation from a national chain. They and their families are homeowners, and usually very active participants in the community. MMH has developed specialties that are representative of our population. Matching our outdoor life style, the joint replacement center is the only one of its kind on the Western Slope. The center is staffed with one nurse for every three patients. Six to one is the more normal ratio. Nurse Jacque, in charge of the unit, is one of those special all-seeing, all-knowing individuals. Nothing escapes her notice. As a patient, just relax and get well; you’re in good hands. Another specialty is care for an older population. Some 2 percent of Montrose County residents are 65 and over. To care for this demographic group, MMH has three cardiology specialists, and is only the second hospital in Colorado to use ‘Synergy Stent,’ which was approved by the FDA in October 2015. It is one of the most advanced medical technologies for treating heart disease. The hospital has a dedication to the most advanced medical technologies. A urology robotic surgery program is another example. That’s along with delivering over 400 babies a year, and administering over 14,000 chemo treatments a year. To do all these medical specialties, and do them well enough to win national awards, is pretty special. Since we all own the hospital, we should treasure it. Some voices clamor for its sale to a national chain, but why? Why see our medical care dollars being spent elsewhere and decisions being made to increase profit rather than care? We have an outstanding hospital by every metric, and performance is what counts. It’s our hospital and we’re a pretty independent group as a whole. That’s something we need to maintain.■

FUN & GAMES Game answers from page 17

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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

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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

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