Brighton Buzz September 2023

Dawa Sherpa Publisher The Brighton Buzz

Changing seasons bring the cooler temperatures, the shedding of leaves, and best of all, the harvesting of bounty that our local farms have produced. Sweet corn, roasted peppers and plump tomatoes are just a few of the scrumptious selections you’ll find offered this month.

Similarly, our outdoor activities shift from hiking, swimming, and picnics to football games, warmer clothing, and soon skiing and snowboarding – signaling the switch from air conditioners to furnaces. Tune-ups become top-of-mind as we prepare for the colder months ahead and you will find plenty of pre-season specials within The Brighton Buzz!

Early fall is one of my favorite times of the year as the aspens turn gold and short-sleeves are replaced with sweaters. But, it’s not time to break out the board games just yet. There are still a few fall events around the town you don’t want to miss – Art in the Park in Carmichael Park, and the Chile Fest at Lulu’s Farm, both on September 9th – to name a few. We hope you will take advantage of all that’s available within our communities and inside our September issue.

Happy September!

As the days shorten, summer gives way to fall with various aspects of life and activities following suit.

Should You Be Thinking About Selling?

Are you wondering if it makes sense to put your home up for sale right now?

In a nutshell, even in this current market, the answer is still yes, and here’s why.

As I mentioned last month, inventory is significantly lower than it was last year. But that gap has been on a slightly downward trend for a while now despite the increasing mortgage rates.

So, capitalizing on the fact that we are heading into the autumn season, typically the best time to buy, means that new listings will still grab attention, especially with a solid selling strategy.

e key takeaway? We’re still nowhere near what’s considered a balanced market. is is especially true in the Denver Metro area which is still dealing with the aftermath of so many homes lost in the Marshall Fire. ere’s plenty of demand for your house because there just aren’t enough homes to go around, but there are signs that the market is shifting more towards a buyer’s market, and that shift is projected to continue in that direction as we head into the end of this year and the start of 2024.

As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains: “ ere are simply not enough homes for sale. e market can easily absorb a doubling of inventory.”

So, if you have been considering selling your home, reach out and Joni and I can answer any questions you may have, and help you with a strategy to put your home’s best foot forward to get you the best deal possible.

For proven expertise in establishing your home value and/or searching for a new or existing home and ensuring you are getting the best deal possible, please call Jan at (303) 520-4340

O ered by: Jan Hepp-Struck, Hepp Realty

We design surface spaces with a creative and professional approach. From the initial consultation to installing beautiful stone surfaces, we provide customers with expert guidance and excellent customer service throughout the entire process. We

Our custom surfaces are developed with a high level of precision and craftsmanship. Let us make your project beautiful and affordable. No matter the size of your project, we make your custom surfaces a work of art.

Tim Roberts - Edward Jones

Ifyou own a small business or are self-employed, you’ve always got plenty to do, but you can’t forget about the days when you’ll be less busy — that is, when you’re retired. How can you prepare for that time of your life?

One key step is establishing a retirement plan for your business or yourself. And thanks to the 2022 SECURE 2.0 Act, you can now receive tax credits for opening and administering a 401(k), SEP-IRA or SIMPLE IRA. ese aren’t the only plans available for small businesses or sole proprietors, but they are among the most popular. Let’s look at each of them:

• 401(k) – A 401(k) offers several key benefits: First, any earnings growth is tax deferred, and your contributions can be tax deductible. (Taxes are due upon withdrawal, and withdrawals prior to age 59½ may be subject to a 10% penalty.)

If you choose a Roth 401(k), your contributions aren’t deductible, but your earnings and withdrawals will be tax free, provided you meet certain conditions. And a 401(k) offers a variety of investment options. If you have workers, you’ll need to consider whether to offer matching contributions, which are tax deductible to you, up to the limit of 25% of compensation paid to eligible employees.

But even if you’re self-employed, with no employees other than your spouse, you can establish what’s known as a “solo” or “owner-only” 401(k). In 2023, you can put in up to $22,500 as an employee, plus a catch-up contribution of $7,500 if you’re 50 or older, for a total of $30,000. Plus, you can contribute an additional 25% of earned income as an employer, up to an overall employee and employer maximum of $66,000 (or $73,500 if you’re 50 or older).

• SEP-IRA – An SEP-IRA may be attractive to you if you’re self-employed or if you own a business but have few or no employees. at’s because you must contribute an equal percentage of your own compensation to every eligible employee. In 2023, you can contribute up to $66,000 or 25% of your income, whichever is less.

• SIMPLE IRA – A SIMPLE IRA is easy to establish and administer. As with an SEP-IRA, earnings in a SIMPLE IRA can grow on a tax-deferred basis. If you have employees, they aren’t required to contribute to this plan — but you are. You must match up to 3% of employees’ contributions or provide 2% of their annual salaries, although you do have some flexibility. If your business goes through a rough patch, you can temporarily decrease SIMPLE IRA contributions to 1% for up to two years out of the previous five. Your contributions to your employees’ accounts are tax deductible, but in in terms of building resources for your own retirement, a SIMPLE IRA may be less appealing because of its contribution limits, which are relatively low compared to a 401(k) or SEP IRA. In 2023, you can put in up to $15,500, or $19,000 if you’re 50 or older.

You should consult with your tax advisor to determine which retirement plan is right for you. Your financial advisor can also help you explore your options. And the sooner you put a plan to work, the better.

O

Award-Winning Heart

Platte Valley Medical Center has been awarded the 2023 Chest PainMI registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award from the American College of Cardiology. This award demonstrates the collaborative efforts and dedication of our providers and caregivers in providing high-quality care resulting in excellent outcomes for our cardiac patients in Brighton.

The Rocky Mountain Heart Institute, part of Platte Valley Medical Center, offers a team of experienced and highly qualified cardiologists and vascular specialists providing you with comprehensive care, from heart attack prevention to acute 24/7 coronary intervention, to keep your heart and blood vessels healthy and strong.

To make an appointment with a cardiologist visit, RockyMountainHeart.org or call 303-659-700

Asa young child, I wasn’t the most athletic of kids, a little on the chubby side actually. My mom’s friends would walk up to me and pinch my fat cheeks exclaiming how cute I was. An already grumpy kid that I was, the unwanted attention annoyed me even more.

My older brothers were more athletic than me, they integrated our school’s soccer team, track and field, and others. Me, on the other hand, had the honor to make captain of the chess team three years in a row. While I did try out for the other sport squads, I just never made the final cut.

In Karate however, I found something that I could do without having to “make the team.” I developed at my own pace, and progressed according to my own efforts and capability. In time, I came to excel at Karate, just as my older brothers had done before me. But most importantly, I enjoyed it, and thrived doing it... Many years later, I still do.

To me, doing well at Karate was like the fly of a bumblebee. People wonder how a bumblebee can fly with such tiny wings and a large body. Similarly, one would ask, how could someone excel at Karate when they are not physically gifted?

e problem, I think, is that we make the wrong assumptions about the bees and about people. For a bumblebee it would be impossible to fly like a bird does. Instead, this oddly shaped insect has to flap its wings over two hundred times per second in order to get some lift. Same objective, different approach.

As a Karate practitioner, I could not rely on my natural ability to progress in my training. Instead, Karate required other things first, discipline, focus, perseverance, and determination. With that as a base, everything else came later on its own time.

I see this with my own students, but I also see it in everyday life. ose folks who have the mental strength to outwork their competition and to stay on task when things are difficult. ose are the folks who succeed, even against all odds. People wonder how they got there, and the answer is that, like the bumblebee, they flapped their wings furiously while many others tried to glide to their goals.

To my students I say, be more like the bumblebee, work hard, be consistent, and find a way to achieve your dreams, even if it requires a whole different approach. Not only are you more likely to succeed, but you actually become a much stronger individual through the journey. And that’s what I wish for you as well.

CEMETERY WALK

Are you on Medicare due to Disability?

Social Security disability is a benefit for folks under 65 that provides assistance to people who meet Social Security requirements for disability. When a person is awarded Social Security disability, he/she will be granted Medicare starting the 25th month of disability.

If your disability took awhile to get approved and SSA backdates the effective date of your disability benefits, the months that have passed will count toward the Medicare qualification period. For example, if you applied for disability in September of 2022 and were awarded disability in August of 2023 but it was backdated to September of 2022, September 2022 would be month 1. Your Medicare would then start September 1, 2024. ere are a few exceptions to this rule. If you have ALS, you’ll get Part A and Part B automatically the month your Social Security disability benefits begin.

If you have been diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), and you want Medicare, you will need to sign up for it. You can qualify for this coverage if you have permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. When you sign up for Medicare based on ESRD and you’re on dialysis, Medicare coverage usually starts on the first day of the fourth month of your dialysis treatments.

If you have coverage through your employment or a spouse’s employment, there are two scenarios for how Medicare will work with the Employer Plan while on disability. If the employer has 100 or more employees, the employer plan will be primary. If there are fewer than 100 employees, then Medicare will pay primary to the employer plan.

If you were not working due to your disability and then go back to work, as long as your disabling condition still meets SSA’s rules, you can keep your Medicare coverage for at least 8 ½ years after you return to work.

As you can tell, there are a lot of different scenarios and it can be overwhelming. Please call me if you have any questions. 720-626-6524

O ered by:

WhenI made the decision to open my own hearing aid practice and was developing my business plan, I had already spent many years thinking about the policies, procedures and practices I would incorporate. Six years ago, I was finally able to implement those ideas when I opened Blue Ribbon Hearing & Tinnitus Center in Brighton. Some of these policies relate to advertising and patient service experience.

Fifteen years ago, I was working for a large retail hearing aid dealer. e company was at one time the largest in the Denver Metro area and was acquired by one of the largest companies in the United States that was buying up Mom and Pop hearing aid dealerships all over the country. One day a new patient came in who owned a small eye glass company. We talked about his business and my position and he asked me why I didn’t open my own office. I explained to him that I did not think it was possible to succeed without the significant competitive advantage that came from a large advertising budget spread across many different offices. With a multi-million-dollar annual budget for newspaper ads, direct mailers, and promotional events like lunch-and-learn and open houses, it seemed the only way to get patients in the door required large advertising campaigns.

After a decade working at this large company and competing with big box retailers and other offices who also advertised in similar ways, I realized the patient/customer was the one who was being burdened most by the cost of advertising. Once I came to this conclusion, I made the decision that if I ever had my own business, I would figure ways to reach as many people as possible without expensive advertising to help keep costs down.

As I write this article, I think back to a patient from my previous office who I had developed a strong relationship with over a period of several years. I always looked forward to not just helping her with her hearing, but also

catching up on the lives of her husband and children. When I first started in that office, I had significant control of my schedule and was able to spend the time I wanted and needed to with each patient. en after a number of years company policies changed and I had little to no control of my schedule. Appointment times were shortened and new patients buying hearing aids were given priority over patients in for routine maintenance or other services. is patient drove over an hour to see me, expecting the previous service experience she had received in the past. Instead, due to decisions beyond my control, her appointment time was squeezed down to fifteen minutes. Both of us were disappointed by the rushed appointment. Afterwards, she decided that it was no longer worth it to make the drive to see me. at experience was pivotal to my decision to make sure to schedule plenty of time for each patient and give equal priority to existing patients in for routine visits as well as new patients who are purchasing hearing aids.

I was reminded of the success of this policy when earlier this month I received calls from two former patients who wanted new hearing aids. One was a patient I had not seen since I left the previous company over 6 years ago. e other was a patient from that office who had made the 45-minute drive up to Brighton for a few years before moving to Yuma, AZ a couple of years ago. Both had gone to multiple other hearing aid businesses and both had decided they would rather make the drive to Brighton because of the quality of service and products we provide. Being told that it was worth it to drive 1100 miles to come to Blue Ribbon Hearing & Tinnitus Center was one of the greatest compliments I have ever been given.

Offered by: John Wilson, B.S., BC-HIS - Blue Ribbon Hearing & Tinnitus Center

O ered by: Dolan & Associates, P.C.

You might be asking, “What is the best type of estate plan?” A Will or a Living Trust? e most appropriate answer is “it depends.”

ere are four typical types of estate plans. e first is the government’s plan. If you don’t plan, the government has a default plan for you. e state determines who receives your property, who will be your executor, and the court process that your heirs will go through upon your disability and death.

e second type of estate plan is a plan that uses beneficiary designations to transfer assets following your death. Putting beneficiary designations on your assets will direct those assets to your heirs after death. Unfortunately, some assets do not allow for beneficiary designations. Keep in mind, your beneficiary designations override any instructions you leave in a Will or Living Trust, and don’t help upon disability.

e third type of estate plan is a plan that is designed to use the probate process. ese plans use a Will to provide the instructions for the division of property. Many plans unintentionally end up in the probate process, but some are designed to use the probate process to establish protections for minor or disabled beneficiaries.

e fourth type of estate plan is a properly implemented Living Trust plan. is type of plan is designed to avoid the probate process and allow your estate to be administered in a private manner without court involvement. It is often also used to provide protections for a surviving spouse, children, or other heirs after your death.

You should consider when, how, and what you want to leave your heirs; the time, effort, and resources you are willing to devote to your plan during your life, and the benefits and shortcomings of each type of plan. en, with the advice of a quality estate planning attorney, you can choose which of the four types of plans will work best for you.

If you would like to learn more about your estate planning options, visit www.EstatePlans atWork.com to sign up for a complimentary educational workshop.

Who You’re Going To Call

Unlock Savings and Peace of Mind: Let’s Review your Coverage

1. Schedule a free review to better understand your medical coverage benefits. Discover any unused benefits to maximize your coverage before year-end, avoiding loss of benefits that are limited to a calendar year. Do you have rewards that have not been redeemed? Don’t leave $ on the table. Furthermore, learn about 2024 updates.

2. Wondering if your current Rx coverage is the best for your medications? I’ll help you determine optimal prescription options, potentially revealing significant savings. A yearly Rx coverage check matters, because coverage changes are allowed only during annual enrollment, except in special cases. Estimates from research by the Kaiser foundation show only 30% of Medicare enrollees annually review drug costs! A review can help to avoid surprise costs in January 2024.

4. Compare Medicare Supplement coverage any time for price savings. If you haven’t reviewed your coverage in years, you might qualify for competitive prices for the same coverage.

5. A quick, free review takes under an hour and can be conducted over the phone. No cost for my services.

If you are new to Medicare, or will be in the coming year, come to an informational seminar to learn the groundwork about Medicare. Scan QR code in the adjacent Ad for upcoming local seminars.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Offered by: Headwaters Health and Wealth LLC - Lisa Asmussen

September is the month of balance. It is the month of the Autumnal Equinox, when once again, the hours or light are equal to the hours of darkness. e harvest season is beginning to wane, the pumpkins are ripe in the field - at least some people’s pumpkins are! Anyway - September is a great time to get your energy body back into balance, as the energies of the earth shift to a balance point, why not be in alignment with those global energies?

WHY?

• e chakras are your body’s energy fi lters, and fi lters need clearing.

• Dirty chakras may cause you to feel sluggish, slow minded and fatigued.

• Damaged or clogged chakras may point to an underlying disease process that needs to be addressed.

CLEAR chakras strengthen and support your body’s processes.

BALANCED chakras allow greater access to divine energy, your connection to God, as well as clear thinking, and greater intuition.

HEALING the chakras can bring closure to past life traumas, as the chakra system accompanies the soul on all of life’s journeys, past and present.

Let’s clear away what you’ve been building up through the year, and head into Autumn, clear and refreshed.

Call 720-732-5798 and ask for Wellyssa. Please visit my web page at Wellyssaswell.com.

O ered by: Wellyssa’s Well

Welcome… Nicole Waltz, FNP-BC!

Brighton Pediatrics

Brighton Pediatrics would like to welcome our newest provider, Nicole Waltz, FNP-BC! Mrs. Waltz is a is an ANCC board certified Family Nurse Practitioner that comes to us as a graduate of Walden University.

Mrs. Waltz is originally from Ohio. Prior to becoming a nurse, she had moved to Florida to intern at Walt Disney World. Once she decided on nursing, Mrs. Waltz attended college in West Virginia where she earned her Associates and then her Bachelor of Science in nursing.

We are fortunate that Mrs. Waltz has chosen Colorado and the Brighton community as her home. She notes that, “I love having moments of connecting with children and relating to parents on raising kids. I also love watching kids light up the room with their little smiles and seeing the magic of childhood in them.”

Nicole loves getting to know kids and watching them grow! In addition, she loves the idea of caring for our community’s future generation. Nicole particularly loves caring for newborns as they start their journey in life. In her spare time, Nicole loves to spend time with her husband, two daughters, and their golden retrievers. She and her family love spending time outside in their garden, swimming in the pool, taking beach trips, going to Disney, and exploring Colorado.

To schedule an appointment with Mrs. Waltz, please contact our office. Come and join us in welcoming her to Brighton Pediatrics!

Eagle View Adult Center

NEWS & INFORMATION

Senior Advisory Board

The purpose of the Advisory Board is to advise and assist in the needs and operations of Eagle View. The Board meets Tues. Sept 19 and Oct 17 at 1:00 p.m. Members are: Dave Thomas, Peggy Jarrett, Lou Ellen Bromley, Dan Buckner, Olly Ramirez, Steve Yarish, Bill Alsdorf, Heidi Storz, Judy Schissler, Gayle Shibao, Barbara Spakoski, and Karen Swaithes. Visitors are welcome.

Charitable Contributions

Together we can continue to enhance the great programs and services offered for active adults in the Brighton area. Your financial support will be recognized on the donor wall at Eagle View. Donations are tax-deductible. Make donations payable to: Brighton United Senior Citizens, 1150 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601.

Donor Opportunities for Wall Recognition:

Friend: $100 - $499

Memorial: $100+

Sponsor: $500 - $999

Benefactor: $1000+

Outreach & Referral

Do you need help and are unsure where to turn?

Evon Benitez will assist you with completing forms and finding needed services. You’ll need to make an appointment to see Evon as she’s often meeting with others. To make an appointment, call Evon at 303-6552079. Leave a message.

SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS

Walk On!

Explore trails in the Brighton area! First day meet in the EVAC Lobby; after that we will meet at selected locations in Adams County. Wear layered clothing, good walking shoes, and bring water. Leader: Chris Howell.

Wednesdays - 9:00 a.m.

Sept 6 - 27

$4.00 (4 wks)

Deadline: Ongoing

Funeral Planning

Learn how easy it is to do your own pre-arrangements at this advanced planning informational seminar. Preplanning allows you to outline every detail of your funeral service and minimize difficult decisions for your family while they’re grieving. Presenter: Peace of Mind Services.

Wed. Sept 6 - 1:30 p.m.

Free Deadline: Tues. Sept 5

VOA Lunch

1150 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601 303-655-2075 I evacinfo@brightonco.gov

www.brightonco.gov

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Tech Tuesdays

A hot, nutritious lunch is provided by Volunteers of America, Mondays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Please reserve your meal in advance. For Mondays, reserve the Thursday before; for Thursdays, reserve the Monday before. Call Eleanor at 303-655-2271 between 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Mon. & Thurs. to make a reservation.

Daily meal donations are appreciated.

$2.50 Donation per meal if age 60+

$8.50 Mandatory charge if under 60

Medical Equipment Loans

Basic medical equipment is available to loan out. Items may include wheelchairs, front wheel and seated walkers, canes, crutches, toilet seat risers, commodes, and bath benches. There is no guarantee what will be available at any time. Call 303-655-2075 for information.

Senior Wellness Clinic

The Clinic focuses on health promotion and disease prevention for seniors 55+. Operated by Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), services include foot care, health checks, and blood pressure checks. The fee for foot care is $40 payable at the time of your appointment. Foot care may be Kaiser covered with pre-approval. Reduced fee available upon approval. Masks required for everyone. Call 303-655-2075 for appointment. Clinic hours: 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Friday: Sept 1, 8, 15, 22 Oct 6, 13, 20, 27

Need help with your laptop, tablet, or smartphone? We will do our best to help you become more comfortable using your device. Schedule an appointment with Calvin at 303-655-2187.

Massage

Feel great with a massage by our certified therapist, Laurie Lozano Maier. She has over 12 years of massage therapy experience. Call 303-655-2075 to make a onehour appointment. Pay Laurie at the time of service - check or cash.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays $60 for 1 hour

Deadline: Two days ahead

Transportation

Via Mobility - provides specialized transportation within the City of Brighton. Via can take you to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and Eagle View, to name just a few of the places you can go in Brighton. New Via users - call 303-447-2848 ext. 1014 to get started. To schedule rides, call 303-447-9636. Free rides to and from Eagle View to seniors living in the Brighton Via service area are provided by funding from the Senior Advisory Board.

FlexRide

This is an RTD service. Call 303-994-3549 for reservations. The driver will pick up and deliver you anywhere within Brighton, Mon - Fri. 6:00 a.m.7:00 p.m. Cost is the local RTD bus fare.

Blood Pressure Screening

The firefighters from the Brighton Fire Department will perform FREE blood pressure checks for one hour.

Thurs. Sept 7 @ 10:30 a.m. Mon. Sept 25 @ 10:30 a.m.

Movie: Book Club

Four lifelong friends (Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Candice Bergen, and Mary Steenburgen) have their lives upended when they aim to spice up their mundane routines by reading the provocative bestseller Fifty Shades of Grey. With newfound confidence, they each begin to come alive as exciting romances are ignited and old flames are rekindled. Through it all, the ladies inspire each other to make this next stage of their lives the best thus far. Rated PG-13. 1hr/44 min

Thurs. Sept 7 1:30 p.m.

Deadline: Wed. Sept 6

Friday Feast

Who doesn’t love John Denver’s music? Back by popular request, we have a special treat today with Chris Collins performing everything John Denver. We’ll be serving bacon cheeseburger sliders, salad, and dessert.

Fri. Sept 8 - 12:00 noon

$6.00

Deadline: Wed. Sept 6

Car Show

Everyone loves old cars, fancy cars, fast cars and Brighton has a lot of cars! They will proudly be displayed in our parking lot at our Annual Car Show. Call Sue 303-655-2076 to find out how to get your car in the show. Brighton Jazz will be performing throughout the morning. Everyone’s welcome!

Sat. Sept 9 - 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Craft Fair Sign-Up

Our Craft Fair will be Sat. Nov 4 from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. All items must be hand-crafted. One table per person. If you are interested in a table, call 303-655-2075 no later than Mon. Sept 11. Leave your name and phone number. All names will be entered into a lottery drawing. If your name comes up in the first 49 names drawn, you will receive a phone call on Tues. Sept 12 with your registration time to be held on Wed. Sept 13. You will then come to the center at that time, select your table and pay your fee (cash or check only.) Note that all vendors must purchase a one-time sales tax license ($25 payable when you register.) Assigned registration times between 8:15 - 10:00 a.m.

Wed. Sept 13

$35 per table

Kindness Counts

This group is about fun, easy ideas for spreading a little kindness throughout the community. Each month we pick a project. Call Sue at 303-655-2076 for information. Wed. Sept 13 - 11:00 a.m.

Duplicate Bridge

The object of duplicate is for a team of two to play all other teams using pre-determined four-hand boards. You and your partner compete against all other partners to bid and win the best hand on each board. Instruction on playing duplicate and scoring will be reviewed and discussed. You MUST have a partner to play Duplicate Bridge and should use the same partner for this two-day challenge. Tell us your partner at registration. Facilitator: Bobbi Jo Unruh.

Wed. Sept 13 & 27 - 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

$10 (2 wks)

Deadline: Mon. Sept 11

Feathered Friends: Mystery Bird

There’s a new resident in the Raptor Education Foundation flock. This month’s guest is going to be a mystery raptor…Anne has decided to surprise us! Hawk, owl, falcon…we’re not sure who will be here.

Wed. Sept 13 - 1:00 p.m.

$5.00

Deadline: Mon. Sept 11

Bunco Thursdays

Bunco is an easy and fun game of dice. Enjoy an afternoon of fun, laughter, and prizes.

Thursdays - 1:15 p.m.

Sept 14 & 28

$4 (each day)

Deadline: Wed. before

SEPTEMBER CLASSES

Genealogy

Find your ancestors using a computer and other resources. Facilitators Sheryl Johnson and Fred Trail will work 1-on-1 with you. Class limited to three people on the EVAC computers - tell us at registration if you need one. Five more students can bring a laptop or other wireless device. Some computer ability necessary. Bring a flash drive and pencil.

Fridays - 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Sept 8 - Oct 27

$20 (8 wks)

Deadline: Wed. Sept 6

Greeting Cards

Make a variety of cards for any holiday or occasion. You can pick your sayings and messages. Learn stamping and die-cutting methods. All supplies included in fee. Linda Addison is a certified “Stampin’ Up” card instructor. See display case for samples.

Fridays - 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

$15

Session 1: Sept 8

Deadline: Wed. Sept 6

Spellbinders Storytelling

Julie and Jim are coming back for another fun-filled storytelling event. Stories help us make sense of our world, impart a lesson, pass down history, and more. Free, but please register.

Thurs. Sept 14 - 1:15 p.m.

Deadline: Tues. Sept 12

Medicare Scams

EVAC & Zoom

It’s almost Open Enrollment time, which is primetime for Medicare-related scams. Learn about the different types of frauds and scams that are common, and how to avoid them. Presenter: Michelle Escoto.

Fri. Sept 15 - 1:30 p.m.

Free

Deadline: Wed. Sept 13

Medicare Counseling

Receive one-on-one assistance on Medicare issues from Rosemary Evans. She is specially trained on Medicare insurance programs, including Medicare Part D. Call Evon at 303-655-2079 to make an appointment. For general Medicare questions you can also call Benefits in Action at 720-221-8354. Counseling by appointment.

Tues. Sept 19 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Deadline: Thurs. Sept 14

Denver Decades: 1990 - 2020

EVAC & Zoom

From the 1960s through the 1980s, Denver would fall from its pinnacle as the undisputed power in the area. Downtown would become Skid Row, and we don’t even talk about what began to happen along Colfax. As the 1990s dawned, however, hard choices made during the previous thirty years began to pay off, and Denver’s

Iris Folding Cards

Make unique cards with scrap paper and an easy folding technique. You will complete or take home materials to make two cards. All materials are provided. Optional: bring an office-type tape dispenser and scissors. Instructor: Karen Kloberdans.

Tuesdays - 12:30 - 3:00 p.m.

$9.00

Session 1: Princess II

Sept 12

Deadline: Fri. Sept 8

Session 2: Cat & Pumpkin

Sept 26

Deadline: Fri. Sept 22

AARP Smart Driver Course

Take AARP’s driving refresher course on safe driving practices and rules of the road. Most companies offer a discount on auto insurance for course completion.

Instructor: Dennis Gibbons.

Wed. Oct 4 - 12:00 noon - 4:30 p.m.

$20 - AARP member

$25 - Non-member

Deadline: Mon. Oct 2

crawling ascent became a meteoric rise. Join us for a look at thirty years that have made a national darling out of Denver.

Tues. Sept 19 - 1:30 p.m.

$5.00

Deadline: Fri. Sept 15

Low Vision Support Group

This month’s topic will focus on medication management with low vision. Facilitated by Beyond Vision Skills Trainer from the Center for People with Disabilities.

Wed. Sept 27 - 1:00 p.m.

Free

Deadline: Mon. Sept 25

The Bill of Rights

EVAC & Zoom

After the new Constitution was ratified, one of the first tasks accomplished by Congress was to propose and ratify a list of individual rights the national government could not violate. Some of these rights, such as No. 3, have never come up in court while others need to be re-interpreted again. Presenter: Paul Flanders. 1:30 p.m.

Wed. Sept 27

$4.00

Deadline: Mon. Sept 25

Readers Theatre Performance

The Readers Theatre performances are always a lot of fun and only last about 20 minutes. Drop in for the free show and support our hard-working acting troupe! Play is done in time to take advance of the VOA lunch afterward. RSVP necessary for lunch 303-655-2271.

Thurs. Sept 28 - 11:00 a.m.

Free

ABCs of Drawing Workshop

Learn how to draw people, pets, wildlife, and more with professional illustrator, Frank Pryor. This workshop will improve your skills for beginners and experienced artists! All that is required is a drawing pad and pencil!

Thursdays - 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

$25 (1 wk)

Session 1: Sept 14

Deadline: Mon. Sept 11

Session 2: Oct 12

Deadline: Mon. Oct 9

Breathworks & Meditation

Breathwork is the conscious awareness of your breath. Explore breathing techniques, mindfulness, and guided meditation with a playlist of music curated for each class to include singing bowls and drums. At the end of class we’ll share our experiences within our safe space. It’s up to each person whether they want to share.

Instructor: Lewis Ortiz.

Fridays - 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

$15 (1 wk)

Session 1: Sept 22

Deadline: Wed. Sept 20

Session 2: Oct 27

Deadline: Wed. Oct 25

Be sure to check out our Trips!

Note: Not all offerings are listed here. Please visit www.brightonco.gov for a complete listing.

CULTURAL STAGE LINEUP

IN ONE ACCORD

(Gospel singers 10 - 10:30 AM)

STAGE IMAGES

(Variety dance 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM)

COLORADO YOUTH MARIACHI

(Mexican music 10:45 - 11:15 AM)

DANCER’S EDGE

(Variety dance 11:15 - 11:30 AM)

DOTSERO

(Jazz band 12 - 1:30 PM)

STAGE IMAGES

(Variety dance 1:30 - 1:45 PM)

ELENA TOWNSEND

(Poet 1:45 - 2 PM)

DANCER’S EDGE

(Variety dance 2 - 2:15 PM)

TAIKO WITH TONI

(Japanese drummers 2:15 - 2:45 PM)

PLATTE VALLEY PLAYERS

(Theater 2:45 - 3:15 PM)

‘AU MALAMA POLYNESIAN (Band/dance 3:15 - 4 PM)

SEPT. 9 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CARMICHAEL PARK

ARTIST BOOTHS · LIVE MUSIC

DANCERS · THEATER FOOD TRUCKS KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

Free your brain - Play Sudoku!

Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game. If you play Sudoku daily, you will soon start to see improvements in your concentration and overall brain power. Start a game today and make it a part of your daily brain workout!

The goal of Sudoku is to fill in a 9×9 grid with digits so that each column, row, and 3×3 section contain the numbers between 1 to 9. At the beginning of the game, the 9×9 grid will have some of the squares filled in. Your job is to use logic to fill in the missing digits and complete the grid. Don’t forget, a move is incorrect if:

• Any row contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

• Any 3×3 grid contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

• Any column contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

The Quest For Financial Independence

Women face more financial roadblocks, and strive harder to overcome them

Presented by T. Lloyd Worth, Worth Wealth Management

Throughouthistory, the barriers to financial independence for women have been especially tough – if not impossible. For example, it was technically legal for banks to refuse credit and loans to unmarried women – and to require married women to get their husband’s permission for credit and loans – until 1974, when the Equal Credit Opportunity Act was passed.

Fortunately, things are improving. But there are still obstacles to overcome–including the struggle for equality in finances. For example, the latest earnings comparisons available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that full-time female workers earn only 82 percent of what their male counterparts earn.1

Other obstacles to financial independence for women include:

• Motherhood. Women are more likely than men to take time away from work or reduce their work hours because of caregiving responsibilities e American Association of University Women (AAUW) contends that this creates “the Motherhood Penalty,” causing mothers to make “only 58 cents for every dollar paid to fathers.2

• Financial literacy. Men are twice as likely to take courses that lead to careers in finance.

• Life expectancy. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the average lifespan for an American male is 76, while the average woman in America will live to be 81.

How women define financial independence

Bank of America surveyed more than 3,500 women ages 22 and older about their thoughts on financial independence. e top three indicators of financial independence, based on that survey, included:

• Being debt-free: Paying down debt provides more financial flexibility.

• Having an emergency fund: Being able to access savings when you’re in dire need provides peace of mind.

• e ability to support yourself without any fi nancial help: Inflation, stagnating wages, and debt can make it tough to keep up with everyday expenses. It’s important to cut back on spending, rather than asking family members or friends to help. Nevertheless,

she persisted

Despite the obstacles women have faced – or maybe because of them – the number of women investors is growing rapidly and doing well! Based on a 2021 study by Fidelity, 67 percent of women are now investing outside of their retirement accounts, compared to 44 percent in 2019. To top it off, Fidelity’s analysis of more than 5 million customers showed that women outperformed men by an average of 40 basis points annually – or 0.4 percent – over the past ten years.3

In its article about women and investing, Bankrate said that women hold incredible potential, and shared the following predictions:3

• By 2030, women in America are expected to control much of the $30 trillion in financial assets that baby boomers possess today.

• A 2021 study by BNY Mellon showed there would be an extra $3.22 trillion of assets under management from private individuals if women invested at the same rate as men.

• e same BNY Mellon study also found that women are more likely to make investments that have positive impacts on society and the environment. is would tack on an extra $1.87 trillion of additional inflows into socially responsible investments if women invested at the same rate as men.

• e number of female investors is surging. A 2022 global survey from social trading and investment company eToro found that of the 9,500 female investors surveyed, 48 percent of them were new to markets over the past two years. Based on these predictions, women and their quest for financial independence could be one of the best investments we make!

For guidance with your investments, please reach out to Lloyd Worth at Worth Wealth Management, (303) 558-0214.

IMAGE

youth leadership conference

Offered by: City of Brighton, Communications

Youth grades 5-12 can now register

To empower and build leadership skills among youth, Brighton Youth Services will be hosting the Image Summit Youth Leadership Conference on Nov. 1 & 2 at Riverdale Regional Park (9755 Henderson Road). The Summit is open to Colorado youth in grades 5 - 12.

This two-day summit will feature keynote speakers, engaging workshops ranging from art to diversity, an opportunity to interact with elected officials from across the state, an American Ninja Warrior obstacle course, a food truck alley (all food included with registration fee), networking and more.

The goal of the youth conference is to empower youth, build confidence, teach leadership, and inspire young leaders to use their voices to positively impact their communities.

The cost to attend is $25. Registration is now available at brightonimagesummit.org and early registration is recommended.

If you have questions, please contact Tawnya Russell at trussell@brightonco.gov.

Sellers - Don’t Be Surprised by Repairs

Repairs or replacements that the homebuyer requires to be completed before closing on the sale of your home can blindside you if you’re not prepared. While any unforeseen expenses are an unwelcome surprise, you’ll still have to fi x the problems or risk letting your buyer out of the contract and having to disclose the problems to future homebuyers.

Homebuyers have the right to have the home they’re buying professionally inspected. e purpose of the inspection is to inform the buyer as to the condition, age, and likely lifespan of major systems and appliances in the home. As a contingency in the contract, the buyer has the choice to proceed with the contract or ask the seller for repairs or replacements. is is fair because many issues with a home can’t be seen with the naked eye. An inspection gives a rough idea of future expenditures; if there are more problems than the buyer is willing to allow, the transaction will be in jeopardy. e buyer can’t help but wonder what other problems may come to light about the home.

Your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colorado Real Estate professional knows that the less the buyer finds wrong, the smoother the transaction will be. Before you put your home on the market, hire a licensed home inspector to alert you to unknown problems and repair or replace them so the buyer has no misgivings. You’ll also be able to ask a higher price for your home when it’s in pristine condition.

inking about the next chapter in your real estate goals? Call us at 303-905-8850 or visit BHHScore.com to connect with a Trusted Real Estate Advisor who is knowledgeable about real estate in your neighborhood. We are always here to help with your real estate needs and questions.

Offered by: Scott and Lora Nordby, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colorado Real Estate