Senior Beacon Newspaper, February 2020 by BeaconNewsGroup

Senior Beacon SB

5th

Eldest & Locally-Owned Senior Newspaper in Southern Colorado

FEBRUARY 2020

Vol. 39:1

Established February 1982

457 Consecutive Months!

Committed To Southern Colorado Seniors For 39 Years And Counting!!

DECADE OBSERVATIONS FROM THE CAVE

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HELLO EVERYONE AND welcome to the decade of the 2020s. You may remember me from the decades of the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s in which I wrote columns on a monthly basis for my pet project, Senior Beacon, for almost 35 years.

THOSE COLUMNS were personal sometimes, political almost always, funny occasionally and mostly controversial all the time. I hung up my ideas about three years ago but was asked to reminisce since Senior Beacon has now wandered into its 5th decade far behind myself JAMES R. GRASSO Former Chief Cook who has breathed & Bottle Washer air in 9 different decades and am a mere pup at 71 this month. To all who remember me fondly I thank thee for your continued support. For you who wished I was gone and never to be seen again I'll say this: I'm a lot more mellow since I stopped reading some 600 articles a month on the pop culture and our "esteemed?" leaders. So the memory lane trip begins: In 1982 I was approached

to take part in an experiment called "targeting markets." The particular market was Senior Citizens. I was 33 years old when approached and had a background in advertising sales and had a BA in Literature and thought I'd write 3 or 4 novels and see where I'd go from there. Little did I know that you can't eat typed words for sustenance so advertising sales it was. My first newspaper was 12 pages and we had perhaps 16 ads mostly very inexpensive and small. It took me a year to really get the grasp of what I had and when I figured out that I could make a living at this I never looked back. Besides the monthly paper I joined various boards concerning usually Seniors' issues. I developed a yearly Long Term Care Booklet that was very successful for more than 25 years. Senior Beacon and

▶ SEE 5TH DECADE, PAGE 2

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Found on pages 14 and 21!!

Page 2 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

◀ FROM 5TH DECADE, PAGE 1 myself even won a few awards. I sent coupons out throughout the zip codes for perhaps 5 years, 2-3 times a year. I remember one person who received the coupons at his home and called me every single time complaining about the mail they received from me. He was going to sue. Since I was unable to stop to scratch him off the list as it would have been extremely time-intensive to find his particular address out of some 2,400 envelopes of mail sent to the 81004 zip code out of 10,000 total sent throughout Pueblo and Pueblo West, I showed him, and just quit it altogether! I also put on bowling and golf tournaments throughout the years sponsoring an entire bowling league for a few years and a golf league for about 20 years. (Raising money to help fight Alzheimer's and such ) also did a few side pamphlets for Seniors concerning availability of specific housing and other sundry things. I had Hip, Hip For Gray Days at the Pueblo Mall and paired with St. Mary-Corwin to increase awareness for the Senior Community throughout the area and beyond for 3-4 years. I even started a woman's pam-

Sil

phlet which I at first named Women's Monthly (whew I'm glad I caught that before it was printed) but the person that was responsible for it promptly left town after the third month! So, those are most of my bona fides. Looking back on what's been written above there are an awful lot of "I" in the text. Sorry for that. Please excuse the patting on the back. It is what was done and what it took to embrace my professional decision to be a publisher and card carrying member of Pueblo and Pueblo County. I'd be remiss if I didn't include Fremont County as the good folks there accepted Senior Beacon with particularly open arms and gave me succor during a trying family time concerning the sickness of one of my children. In fact, the prayers of the readers helped my family and most of all me daughter endure a physical problem that lingers even now some 20 + years later. She's doing great by the way. Lives in Colorado Springs, married, good job and never had a grade throughout school which includes a Masters degree other than an A!

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That, in part, was because of your prayers and encouragement. About 8 years ago I ventured into the Colorado Springs market. Bought a neat delivery van and each month scurried up to my first Colorado home (lived there from 1976-1978 after moving on a lark with 7-month pregnant wife) from Rome, NY and distributed papers to the racks about once a week along with my other distribution duties in Pueblo, Pueblo West and sometimes Cañon City, I have 35 years of stories I could tell but the best thing that happened to me was meeting a ball of energy in a small package named Jan McLaughlin and a few years later her new husband Rick Forman. Jan was a marvel. We had many religious discussions and they prayed a lot for me because I needed it! As you could probably put together I don't work well with other people. I called myself the Chief Cook and Bottle Washer throughout my tenure, well, because although I have many friends and some enemies (because of my political stances mostly), when it comes to work I'm like Marlene Dietrich, "I Vant to be Alone!" At this point I must send out kudos to my old and dear friend Randy Gottula and his wife Camie (who has the same birthday as I only a lot younger.) They took a lot off my shoulders in the distribution end which allowed us to go to 400 places in our heyday.

Yep 400 and 40 pages!!! I guess the funniest "problem" I had was people were always coming to the area and were going to push me out of business. Even an international firm came and tried to bully me out of the business. They lasted two years. Folks came down from the north and tried to intimidate but I held firm and the readership, the elders of southern Colorado held fast to Senior Beacon even though they didn't particularly care for my politics. They knew that Senior Beacon was their newspaper; catered to them to help them avoid the landmines of old age the best I could and they chose Senior Beacon. It's happening even now believe it or not. Looking back, I have been blessed by the Almighty. With my wife Jeannie at my side and my three kids underpinning me I've had a good life. I still am affiliated with Senior Beacon as the Publisher Emeritus, CCO (look, I have Latin after my name and letters too!) This is getting long and I probably overran my space but we'll let let the editor worry about that. I'm thinking of making a comeback if the editor will have me. So look for Observations From The Cave on a monthly basis, maybe! Wow, five decades? Whoda thunk it!

VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 3

NEWS

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LONELINESS. Social isolation is a contributing factor in senior suicides. It also is considered as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigaratees a day.

symptoms as soon as possible before they become overwhelming. • Leverage technology: Technology can play a key role in reducing loneliness, ensuring seniors are always connected to loved ones and care teams who can monitor and interact with them. For example, Philips Cares is a mobile application that helps connect seniors who are subscribers to Philips Lifeline service with their

family and friends, helping to enable these caregivers to be there for their aging loved ones, easing and enriching their aging journey. • Make a connection: Connecting with people, purpose and passions will help eliminate feelings of isolation. Consider organizing a reoccurring social gathering, such as a book club or a group fitness class. Explore local activities organized by a senior

community center or find a National Council of Aging program through www.ncoa.org/ncoa-map. Learn More For further facts about the latest technology to help seniors stay connected with their care circle, visit https://philips.to/2MGDqLm or call (855) 223-7395.

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THERE IS A public health threat looming across the United States that’s not visible to most but affects nearly half of all Americans daily: loneliness. Social isolation is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is twice as harmful as obesity. Worst of all, loneliness is a contributing factor in senior suicides, which are rising in the U.S. While it is not something people like to think about, now more than ever, Americans must remove the stigma around mental health and spread awareness to better combat loneliness. Many of the 12 million Americans over age 65 who live alone are entering the time of year where that lack of companionship and isolation is most palpable: winter. Whether physical or travel challenges keep seniors from attending family gatherings or the harsh weather deters them from venturing out for a social event, seniors can suffer from prolonged loneliness that can quickly manifest into more serious issues. Loneliness does not have to be synonymous with getting older or with aging in place. Here are tips on how to help keep loneliness—and its negative health effects—at bay: • Intervene early: Spotting loneliness in yourself or someone you love can be difficult. The most common physical and behavioral signs of loneliness include persistent sadness, impaired cognitive performance, lower self-esteem, or lack of motivation and energy. \Early intervention can positively affect one’s quality of life, so it’s important to address these

Page 4 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

Feb. 3: Stuffed bell pepper, baby baked potatoes, cauliflower, carrot raisin salad, spiced peaches Feb. 4: Salmon burger with lettuce and tomato, cream of mushroom soup, broccoli slaw, banana Feb. 5: Lasagna roll/marinara, broccoli, ww roll, tossed salad with raspberry vinaigrette, tropical fruit Feb. 6: Chicken mole, Bahama vegetable blend, Spanish rice, black bean corn salad, orange, carrot cake with cream cheese frosting Feb. 7: BBQ Beef Sandwich, seasoned pinto beans, coleslaw, tropical fruit Feb. 10: Beef tips, penne pasta, brussels sprouts, 3 bean salad, applesauce Feb. 11: Lemon pepper chicken, wild and brown rice, peas, beet & onion salad, orange Feb. 12: BLT sandwich, black bean lentil soup, pasta vegetable salad, spiced peaches Feb. 13: Yankee pot roast with gravy, baked potato, medley, maple glazed carrots, apple Feb. 14: Cod Tuscany, baby bakers, broccoli, banana, high fiber cookie Feb. 17: Closed for Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

Feb. 18: Chicken carbonara, broccoli, green bean salad, spiced peaches, oatmeal raisin cookie Feb. 19: Hamburger with lettuce, tomato and onion, carrots, coleslaw, diced pear Feb. 20: Roast turkey with gravy, mashed potatoes, California vegetables, ww bread, apple Feb. 21: Stuffed pasta shells with meat sauce, green beans, carrot raisin salad, garlic bread stick, pear Feb. 24: Chicken tacos with sour cream, cheese and salsa southwestern black beans, orange Feb. 25: Sweet & sour pork, jasmine rice, Asian vegetables, applesauce, high fiber cookie Feb. 26: Beef chili with cheese, baked potato with sour cream, tossed salad with chick peas, orange Feb. 27: Smothered pork chop with onions and peppers, mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts, tropical fruit salad, high fiber cookie Feb. 28: Manicotti, Bahama vegetables, sunflower broccoli, salad, apple, raisin nut cup

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VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 5

SRDA FEBRUARY 2020 CALENDAR Special information from Pueblo’s SRDA (Plus)

Senior Resource Development Agency 230 N. Union Ave. (719) 553-3445 www.srda.org Calendar of Events FEBRUARY 2020 ■ MONDAY- FEBRUARY 3 8:00 Taxes Start Front doors open at 8 am, Mon - Thurs. No Fridays! 9-10 Computer Class 10-12 Acrylic Painting 2-3 Self Defense 3-4 Tai - Chi ■ TUESDAY- FEBRUARY 4 8:00 Taxes 8:45 – 9:45 Morning Tai – Chi 9 Pinochle 9-10 Laptop & Tablets 10 – 11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing ■ WEDNESDAY - FEBRUARY 5 8:00 Taxes 9:00 Mahjongg 12:00 Party Bridge 1-2 Zumba 3-4 Tai Chi 3-5 Singers ■ THURSDAY - FEBRUARY 6 8:00 Taxes 8:45 – 9:45 Morning Tai Chi 9:00 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dance Too

■ FRIDAY - FEBRUARY 7 No Tax Preparation on Fridays 10-11 Jian Qi Gong 11-12 Advanced Tai

■ FRIDAY- FEBRUARY 14 10-11 Jian Qi Gong 11-12 Advanced Tai – Chi 1:30-3:30 Social, Music, Refreshments provided

■ MONDAY - FEBRUARY 10 8:00 Taxes 9-10 Computer Class 10-12 Acrylic Painting 1-3 Matter of Balance (Starts up in March) 2-3 Self Defense 3-4 Tai Chi

■ MONDAY - FEBRUARY 17 8:00 Taxes 9-10 Computer Class 10-12 Acrylic Painting 1-3 Matter of Balance (Starts up in March) 2-3 Self Defense 3-4 Tai Chi

■ TUESDAY - FEBRUARY 11 8:00 Taxes 8:45 -9:45 Morning Tai - Chi 9-10 Tablet & Laptop Class 10-2 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing 1–3 Knit & Chat

■ TUESDAY- FEBRUARY 18 8:00 Taxes 9 – 10 Tablet & laptop Class 8:45 -9:45 Morning Tai Chi 10-2 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing

■ WEDNESDAY – FEBRUARY 12 8:00 Taxes 9-12 Mahjongg 12-4 Party Bridge 1-2 Zumba 3-4 Tai Chi 3-5 Singers ■ THURSDAY - FEBRUARY 13 8:00 Taxes 8:45 – 9:45 Morning Tai – Chi 9 Pinochle 10 – 11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing Too 9-11 Sewing Club

■ WEDNESDAY- FEBRUARY 19 8:00 Taxes 9-12 Mahjongg 12-4 Party Bridge 1-2 Zumba 1-3 Knit & Chat 3-4 Tai Chi 3-5 Singers ■ THURSDAY -FEBRUARY 20 8:00 Taxes 8:45 – 9:45 Morning Tai Chi 9:00 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing

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Call us: 719-545-8900 ■ FRIDAY - FEBRUARY 21 10-11 Jian Qi Gong 11-12 Advanced Tai - Chi ■ MONDAY- FEBRUARY 24 8:00 Taxes 9-10 Computer Class 10-12 Acrylic Painting 1-3 Matter of Balance (Starts up in March) 2-3 Self Defense 3-4 Tai Chi ■ TUESDAY- FEBRUARY 25 8:00 Taxes 9 – 10 Tablet & laptop Class 8:45 -9:45 Morning Tai - Chi 10-2 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga 11-12 Line Dancing ■ WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 26 8:00 Taxes 9-12 Mahjongg 12-4 Party Bridge 1-2 Zumba 3-4 Tai Chi 3-5 Singers ■ THURSDAY- FEBRUARY 27 8:00 Taxes 8:45 – 9:45 Morning Tai - Chi 9:00 Pinochle 10-11 Chair Yoga -12 Line Dancing 9-11 Sewing Club 1:30 – 3:30 Co-Op Drawing ■ FRIDAY– FEBRUARY 28 10-11 Jian Qi Gong 11-12 Advanced Tai - Chi FYI: Matter of Balance Starts March 3rd Call Kyle @ 719-544-9898 to sign-up Save the Date: St Patrick’s Day Benefit Breakfast, Friday March 13th, 2020, 8-9:30. Here at Joseph H. Edwards Senior Center (SRDA) 230 N. Union, for information call: SRDA Nutrition Services @ 719-543-0100.

Page 6 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

‘LIGHT FOR THE JOURNEY’ JAN MCLAUGHLIN

Director of Prayer for Prisoners International

BOSSY AND THE BRAT! A SISTER STORY!

hinking I should share a suitcase for a three-week trip to Europe with anyone, much less my younger sister, proves I am crazy! Okay! Let me explain my reasoning. We planned to meet my son Kelly and his wife Jill in Venice for a cruise on the Mediterranean. Then from Venice travel in a rental car through other countries in Europe, ending our trip in England for my grandson’s wedding. With no idea how much luggage space would be available in the rental car and, knowing Kelly would pack most of it in and out of our lodging facilities, I wanted to be considerate. My husband and I had planned this trip with Kelly and Jill a year in advance. Since the wedding took place in England and Kelly and Jill had never been to Europe, they wanted to make this trip a major vacation. We enjoy tripping with them, so we planned to meet in Ven-

ice and travel together to the wedding. I made reservations in VRBO and Home Away rentals. We had airline and cruise reservations. We were stunned when circumstances changed, and Rick could not go. Days after the initial shock, I realized the dilemma. I had to make a decision. I could cancel all our reservations and stay home, go alone with Kelly and Jill, or find someone to take Rick’s place. Kelly called. “Mom, we are sorry Rick won’t be going but we still want you to go.” I had long discussions with Rick and prayers about who I might invite to take his place. My major conundrum: who would I want to be trapped with for over three weeks and who would be willing to be stuck with me for that long? My youngest sister Anita lost her husband a year earlier. She could never afford such a trip and had never traveled out of the country. Our relationship had been shaky, to put it mildly, since our mother died in 2002. Years prior to that we were good friends. I had lost hope that we could restore our friendship. Yet, to my dismay, the answer was clear. The Lord was telling me to invite Anita. When I called Anita with the invitation, she was stunned and remained in a state of shock for weeks. She applied for her passport and made travel preparations. As she adjusted to the thought of a trip to Europe, my own excitement spread joy in my heart with anticipation of this opportunity to bless my sister. Unsure how to pack for such a trip, she came to my house a few days before our departure with two huge bags of clothes and eight pairs of shoes. I

chuckled. “Anita, we aren’t moving to Europe. Just visiting.” We went through the bags. As she pulled out items of clothing, I said, “You won’t need those. That blouse is just like the other one, don’t take it. You might need that. Don’t take that. Yes, you might need that. And so it went until she had plenty of clothes and six pairs of shoes. We met Kelly and Jill in Venice and boarded the cruise ship. Things went quite well until she told them regarding something they had mentioned, “I wasn’t allowed to bring that.” I held my tongue. Until she said it again. “I wasn’t allowed to bring that!” I didn’t raise my voice much, but she knew she hit a nerve. “Anita, don’t say you weren’t allowed to bring anything! We are sharing a suitcase and we had no idea how much space the car would have. Furthermore, I wanted to be considerate of Kelly packing our luggage in and out. There were things I wanted to bring and didn’t. So don’t say you weren’t ALLOWED to bring something.” She never mentioned it again. The cruise and ports of call were wonderful. We saw Katakalon, Olympus and Santorini Greece. Went into Dubrovnik, Croatia. Each time we returned to the boat our steward Miguel had a new animal waiting for us. He created monkeys, swans, kittens and squirrels with towels and washcloths. One other incident caused hackles to stand on my neck. I despise television. I came out of the bathroom and the TV was on. I was livid but didn’t say anything. She went in the bathroom and I turned it off. She returned. “You shut off the TV?” “Yes, I did.” “Why?” “Because I hate Television.”

She didn’t respond. Later at dinner with Kelly and Jill she spouted, “I’m not allowed to watch television in our room.” I lost it. “I didn’t pay this kind of money to have the TV blasting in the room!” Anita looked at Kelly and Jill and said, “She always was bossy.” I said, “And you always were a spoiled little brat.” We all burst into laughter and the sibling bickering ended. I started holding her hand at night before bedtime and we prayed together. When we returned to Venice and began the long journey to England, we prayed at the beginning of each day of travel through Austria, Bavaria, central Germany, France and into London. God protected us and guided our steps, all five hundred bazillion of them. I never walked so much or climbed so many stairs in my life. The journey was amazing. A trip of a lifetime and I praise God for the opportunity to spend the time with my sister, my son and his wife. Oh, by the way. Before we left Venice, Anita bought two more pairs of shoes. After all, they were “buy one get one free.” She couldn’t pass up a deal like that! I call the Lord my Divine Manipulator. Some people object but it’s true. He manipulates me into situations I would never step into on my own. There is no way I would have planned this trip with Anita on my own. And probably no way she would have gone with me under any other circumstance. Truly, God orchestrated every part of it and an amazing healing took

▶ SEE LIGHT, PAGE 11

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VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 7

ANCIENT FAERIE LORE

GLEN VOLLMECKE Author: "Intermission a Place in Time."

During the Tudor period, Shakespeare changed the Old English word 'elf' to faerie. Apart from your usual garden variety (no pun intended) this series iwll explore folklore and superstitions in different parts of the world.

Few have resolved to actually become aware of so many aspects of these small characters. Contrary to common belief these magical beings occupy our lives and senses on a daily basis, providing the myths and legends usually only apparent to certain individuals or our inner selvesâ&#x20AC;Śthe child within. In fact children unspoiled by maturity with no inhibitions can easily appreciate the perception of a magical entity within their reach. While adults skirt the fantasy of realism hoping to establish a relationship, and proof of their existence, children already have the open mind ready to scrutinize beyond soci-

eties' limitations. Never underestimate the power of the faerie. Don't be fooled as these trusty little friends can raise chaos. With innate intelligence and power to foresee the future, they're always one step ahead of us. Rewards involving these beings are captivating, but the perils are colossal. People in many European/ Scandinavian countries unashamedly hold strong opinions amid belief in old and passionate superstitions. According to Old Icelandic legendsâ&#x20AC;Śwhile Eve washed her children by the stream God appeared. In awe she hastily hid these unwashed children. Clearly He declared that those

unwashed would become hidden to man and those souls would be known as Huldre folk...elves or faeries. Although this is indicative of a child's Christening ceremonies, Faeries are ancient beings who significantly predate Christianity. Despite artist's depictions and inspirational renderings, these fanciful and delicate wisps of air encompass mischief, humour, laughter, love and also tragedy. It's far easier for humankind to 'tread carefully' in their darkest realms which exist in dubious parts of the underworld. Written by Glenda Lee Vollmecke. Author: "Intermission a Place in Time."

Page 8 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

NEWS OF THE WEIRD SPECIAL TO THE SENIOR BEACON FROM THE EDITORS OF ANDREWS MCMEEL Birdbrained ▪ Officers of the North Wales (England) Police believe they have solved, with help from the government Animal and Plant Health Agency, the mystery of why more than 200 starlings were found dead in a road in Bodedern on Dec. 10. Rob Taylor of the police force's rural crime team revealed that the birds suffered severe internal trauma, "support(ing) the case that the birds died from impact with the road," he told Sky News. "It's highly likely the murmuration took avoiding action whilst airborne, from pos-

sibly a bird of prey, with the rear of the group not pulling up in time and striking the ground." [Sky News, 1/16/2020] ▪ In the western German city of Kleve, a regional court in mid-January overruled a lower court and awarded the owner of a chicken mauled by a dog higher restitution because the chicken had TV experience. Sieglinde the chicken, who died in the attack, had completed 10 hours of acting training and had appeared in at least one German movie, for which she received a three-figure daily fee. The court ordered the dog's owner to pay 615 euros (about $680) in damages, the Associated Press reported. A regular chicken is worth about 15 euros. [Associated Press, 1/17/2020]

HEARING LOSS? WE CAN HELP!

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Dr. Herholtz is a third generation audiologist and was Southern Colorado’s first Doctor of Audiology. He holds a Doctorate in Audiology from the University of Florida where he graduated with honors and a Master’s of Science in Audiology from Arizona State University, and he completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Dr. Herholtz also attended Cheyenne Mountain High School here in Colorado Springs. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss with an emphasis in fitting the most advanced digital hearing instruments from the best manufacturers in the world. With three generations of knowledge, twenty years of experience and a Doctorate in Audiology, you can rest assured you will receive excellent hearing care combined with good old fashioned service.

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William F. DeHaan III (Bill) is a second generation Nationally Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist. He has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Colorado at Boulder and is a graduate of Cheyenne Mountain High School. Mr. DeHaan has been running hearing clinics in Colorado for over 17 years. He concentrates on the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss and tinnitus. In addition, Mr. DeHaan specializes in dispensing the latest digital hearing instruments from a variety of the best manufacturers in the world. As a second-generation hearing health provider with 17 years of experience, Mr. DeHaan has the expertise and compassion to bring you world-class hearing care. He takes great pride in taking care of each of his patients as if they are family.

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Weird Science On Jan. 22, the National Weather Service expanded its cold-weather warnings in South Florida to include falling iguanas along with falling temperatures. According to the Associated Press, the NWS alerted folks that the reptiles can become stunned by the cold and fall from their perches in trees. As temperatures rise during the day, they wake up, unharmed. Males can grow to 5 feet long and weigh 20 pounds. They aren't considered to be dangerous to humans (unless they land on your head). [Associated Press, 1/22/2020] Animal Farm A Polish pig farmer in his 70s who had been missing since Dec. 31 is believed to have been eaten by his livestock, Fox News reported. Lubin District Prosecutor Magdalena Serafin told local media the farmer's remains, consisting of bones and skull fragments, were found by a neighbor, who called police after spotting the bones while fetching water from a nearby well on Jan. 8. The farmer's animals were roaming freely in the yard, and officials indicated it was clear that the pigs had feasted on him. They suspect he died of a fall or heart attack. [Fox News, 1/17/2020] Extreme Measures An unnamed 55-year-old man from the town of Pitalito, Colombia, got cold feet before his scheduled marriage over the weekend of Jan. 18, but lacked the courage to tell his fiancee. Instead, with the help of his best friends, he faked his own kidnapping, reported Oddity Central. The groom's pals told authorities they had seen a group of armed men on motorcycles abduct their friend, and because kidnappings for extortion are not unknown in Colombia, the local police responded in force. Police Commander Nestor Vargas ordered roads closed, sealing off the town, and began a search. That's when the friends got nervous and admitted they'd made the whole thing up. Authorities kept the groom's identity a secret to protect him from other townspeople, who've been down this road before: This is the second time the groom has left a bride waiting at the altar. He and his cohorts will likely face jail time of up to six years. [Oddity Central, 1/21/2020] Oops! ▪ In Toronto, the streetcar tunnel into Queen Quay Station is protected by an automatic gate, rumble strips, flashing lights and signs warning automobile drivers not to enter. But at 2 a.m. on Jan. 22, one driver managed to ignore or overlook all the warnings, driving his car about 600 meters through the tunnel before arriving at Union Station and becoming stuck on a concrete block, the CBC reported. "We're sort of hard-pressed to think of any other measures we can take at this point" to deter drivers, a spokesman for the Toronto Transit Commission said, "short of closing the tunnel, and that's not an option." [CBC, 1/22/2020] ▪ It's been unseasonably cold in Florida (see Falling Igua-

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 9

NEWS OF THE WEIRD

SPECIAL TO THE SENIOR BEACON FROM THE EDITORS OF ANDREWS MCMEEL nas item above), and one St. Petersburg man apparently became so desperate for warmth on Jan. 21 he set fire to a stack of paperwork in his apartment around 3 a.m. WFLA reported that the flames Mark Okrent, 66, ignited were significant enough to trigger smoke detectors, which summoned the fire department, but no one in the 30-unit building was hurt in the incident. Except Okrent, who was charged with first-degree arson. [WFLA, 1/23/2020]

ville, and 35-year-old Axel Torres got into an argument in their home that became physical, and Torres left the premises. Ayala chased after him and stabbed him numerous times with the nail file tool on the clippers, causing wounds to his feet, hands, shoulders and left leg. When police arrived, they found Torres unresponsive and transported him to the hospital, where he died the next morning. [AP via WABC, 1/14/2020]

News That Sounds Like a Joke If you've always thought those nail clippers in your kitchen drawer were a harmless tool, think again. Kathleen Ayala, 30, has been charged with murder in Cumberland County, New Jersey, following an altercation with her husband on Jan. 12, the Associated Press reported. Authorities said Ayala, of Mill-

The Last Straw After numerous complaints going back six months, according to a neighbor, Robert Wayne Miller, 57, was arrested at his home Zephyrhills, Florida, home on Dec. 22 for disturbing the peace with his lawn mower. Body-camera footage obtained by WFLA shows Pasco County Deputy Michael O'Donnell arriving at

Miller's property and calling out to him, followed by a revving of the mower's engine. "I've had four people come out and tell me that they can't take it anymore," O'Donnell told Miller, who responded, "Whatever," before turning on the mower again. Dwaine White, who lives across the street, told The Washington Post the mower isn't even capable of cutting grass. "He'll run that tractor all night, and it echoes all over the neighborhood," White said. Miller was ultimately arrested for disturbing the peace and not complying with a law enforcement officer's command. If convicted, he could spend 18 months in jail and pay a $1,500 fine. [The Washington Post, 12/27/2019] Awesome! Downtown Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a little safer these

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days, thanks to the efforts of Night Watch, a helpful vigilante dressed in all black, with his face partially covered and wearing reflective goggles, WGHP reported on Jan. 22. "I'm not looking to be a Batman and go around beating up criminals," he told a reporter. Instead, he's an anonymous superhero who's been patrolling the nighttime streets for about a month, hauling around a bag filled with food, clothing and toiletries for those in need. "There is no prerequisite for being a good person," Night Watch said. On that night, he helped out about a dozen homeless people in the community. "It's just nice that people aren't totally freaked out," he said. "Now they know who I am and that I'm trying to help." [Fox8, 1/22/2020]

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apple, Carrot & Peas Salad. â&#x2014;? Thurs. Feb. 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Turkey Tetrazzini, Baked Sweet Potato, Roasted Brussel Sprouts, Confetti Cottage Cheese Crunch, Diced Pears. â&#x2014;? Fri. Feb. 21 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Corn Tamales, Zucchini & Tomatoes, Cheesy Cauliflower, Black Bean Soup/ Crackers, Coconut Fruit Salad. â&#x2014;? Mon. Feb. 24 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Beef-Tomato Mac, Oregon Mixed Vegetables, Seasoned Spinach, Minestrone Soup/Crackers, Strawberry & Peaches. â&#x2014;? Tues. Feb. 25 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chicken Parmesan, Herbed Pasta, Brussel Sprouts, Chicken Barley Soup/ Breadstick, Fresh Apple. â&#x2014;? Wed. Feb. 26 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chili Relleno Casserole, Seasoned Pinto Beans, Capri Vegetable Mix, Navy Bean Soup, Pineapple Tidbits. â&#x2014;? Thurs. Feb. 27 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Penne & Meat Pasta, Italian Mixed Vegetables, Yellow Squash, Carrot Raisin Salad/Garlic Bread, Apricots. â&#x2014;? Fri. Feb. 28 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Citrus & Herb Fish, Roasted Rosemary Potatoes, Seasoned Mixed Vegetables, Garden Vegetables Soup/ Crackers, Cabbage Apple Slaw, Orange.

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Page 10 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

OPINION-EDITORIAL ANN COULTER

My thought is, anyone of any race can commit “microag-

Columnist, author and lawyer

gressions” against people of other races. What we all should endeavor to do is avoid macro-aggressions — you know, little things like murder, rape, assault and carjacking.

IT'S OK TO BE BORED; NOT OK TO BE WHITE

IT'S WEEKS LIKE this that make me wish I had a job and didn’t have to stay home watching TV. With the impeachment nonsense dragging into its 56th month, I have some random observations, only a few of which have anything to do with impeachment.

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1) As tempting as it must be for Republican senators to make a headlong rush to the TV cameras at the conclusion of the day’s festivities, they would be well advised to say this, and only this, each night: Here are the vital issues the United States Congress did NOT address today: — Repairing our highways, bridges and border with a major infrastructure bill. — Ensuring that all Americans can get jobs by cutting off the deluge of cheap foreign labor. — Providing the public with quality services by not inviting the rest of the world to come partake of government benefits meant for Americans. — Fixing the disaster of Obamacare, so that all Americans have access to quality health care (by activating the same mechanisms that give them quality food, housing and iPhones: the free market, contract law and occasional government subsidies). — Passing a bill to defund all the pointless, expensive military deployments around the globe, so we can FINALLY address the hellfires in our own hemisphere. — Ending the opioid crisis by declaring war on Mexican drug cartels and building a wall. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell should attach electrodes to the testicles of every Republican and blast him the moment he (OR SHE!) diverges from the script. 2) The person I really feel sorry for is Nancy Pelosi. I assume she’s weeping uncontrollably as she watches her chances of holding the speakership dwindle every time Jerry Nadler waddles to the mic. True, you “go to war with the army you have, not the army you might want,” as Donald Rumsfeld said, but surely there are more telegenic Democrats than Nadler and Adam Schiff. 3) Every day since forever, The New York Times has run a column about how white people are getting on African Americans’ last nerve. On Monday of this week, it was “How Much Racism Do You Face Every Day?” Average for black teenager: 5x a day. Example: Hearing about a family member who experiences something they described as racial discrimination. And here’s one from Tuesday, titled: “How to Convince a White Realtor You’re Middle Class; Black people ex-

pend daily energy to counteract racial stereotypes and get fair treatment.” The examples included a white real estate agent asking a slatternly attired black woman if she could afford a specific house, and a black woman claiming she was required to sign a “no party” pledge before checking into a Portland, Oregon, Marriott. Also since forever, whites have been trying not to offend. Thus, on the same day as the racial stereotypes column, the Times ran an article about white Iowa voters terrified of picking a Democratic nominee whom black people won’t like. It’s useless. No matter how hard they try, whites just can’t stop offending black people with their damned “microaggressions.” My thought is, anyone of any race can commit “microaggressions” against people of other races. What we all should endeavor to do is avoid macro-aggressions — you know, little things like murder, rape, assault and carjacking. 4) Last week, 20-foot-tall letters appeared on the side of a barn in Southport, England, spelling out the phrase: “IT’S OK TO BE WHITE.” British papers went on red alert, denouncing the “[r]acist and anti-ethnic graffiti” that “[s]hocked” and “appalled” residents. We understand and deeply apologize for such monstrous racism. Would any of these variants pass legal muster? — It might be acceptable to be white, but we’re not sure, we’ll get back to you. — While it is certainly never OK to be white, we hope you will accept our deepest apology. — Whiteness is not for everybody, but to say it’s ‘OK’ to be white is not who we are. If none of these are acceptable, please rest assured, we don’t mean to offend. Apologies all around! We’re all staying late at the office to figure this out. Food is being sent in as we speak … At least we won’t have to watch impeachment news.

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 11

SENIOR SERVICE DIRECTORY These are some of the top service providers in your community! Please mention the paper and receive a discount from most!

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◀ FROM LIGHT, PAGE 6 place in my relationship with my precious sister. The most amazing part of our incredible trip was that Anita and I became friends again. Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God (1 John 4:7 NIV).

Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another (1 Thessalonians 4:9 ESV). And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony (Colossians

3:14 ESV). © 2019 Jan McLaughlin, all rights reserved. (From the Book, Light For The Journey) Jan is Director of Prayer For Prisoners International and can be reached at 719-275-6971 or by e-mail: Jan@PrayerForPrisoners.org.

Page 12 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

REELING 'MARRIAGE STORY' DELIVERS THE GOODS AND MORE FILM PORTAYS LOSS OF LOVE STORY OF BETWEEN TWO CREATIVE PEOPLE BETTY JO TUCKER Pueblo award winning film critic

atching MARRIAGE STORY ended up being a highly emotional experience for my husband and me. Like the characters played by Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver, we went

through a painful divorce after being married for many years. Fortunately, after a long period of estrangement, we rediscovered our lost love and remarried each other. However, several scenes in this marvelous movie brought back sad memories. That’s probably why we’ve been spending a great deal of time thinking about “Marriage Story.” We can’t help believing that a sequel has to be made! In fact, my husband is already tossing around ideas for a “working title.” No full-length movie has ever had such a strong impact on us. Credit goes to director/ writer Noah Baumbach for his compassionate treatment of the two main characters, Nicole and Charlie. And, of course, to Johansson and Driver for their realistic portrayal of two creative, talented people who have forgotten how much they love each

other. Both actors deliver the goods – and more. They even sing a couple of songs that fit right into the plot. Nicole is an actress and Charlie a theater director, so their interests match but their individual goals, not so much. Nicole sees more opportunities in Los Angeles; Charlie feels living in New York City is needed for his success. They have a darling young son (Azhy Robertson), and arguments ensue about what would be best for him. When two determined, crafty divorce lawyers (Ray Liotta and Laura Dern) get involved, the battles become brutal. “Marriage Story” pierces your heart and grabs your attention right from the start. Then burrows deep into your skin. This masterpiece awards should win. Johansson and Driver

Since 1985

excel in roles that fit them very well. Nicole and Charlie they become. A married couple now too numb. How did their love story begin? What drew them to each other then? Watching their sad divorce progress is sometimes funny but still a mess. We love them both; we can’t take sides. Each one has faults and needs and prides. A touching film in every scene, “Marriage Story” commands the screen. About those songs mentioned above, they both come from COMPANY, Steven Sondheim’s Broadway play. Johansson belts out “You Could Drive a Person Crazy” with an amusing trio including Julie Hagerty and Merritt Wever, who play Nicole’s caring mom and funny sister, respectively. Surprisingly, Driver’s version of “Being Alive” had me crying like a baby. I’m glad we don’t have to wait long to hear his wonderful singing voice again. He co-stars with Marion Cotillard in the musical “Annette,” which should be out early in 2020. Marriage Story is one of the best films released this year. Don’t miss it. (Available on Netflix and rated “R” by MPAA.)

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 13

FOR A HEALTHIER YOU

Time Management Strategies To Ease Burden RESPONSIBLITIES OF FAMILY caregivers typically include chauffeuring, shopping, running errands, paying bills, coordinating medical and other appointments, yard work, home maintenance, houseLISA M. PETSCHE Medical social worker keeping, preparing meals, and freelance writer managing medication and assisting with personal care. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the demands. There don’t seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done, let alone spend time with other important people (such as a spouse) or devote time to self-care. If you are a caregiver, read on for practical ways to save time in order to manage the stress inherent in your role. Get Help Accept offers of help. If offers of help aren’t forthcoming, take the initiative and ask other family members to share the load. Be specific about the kind of assistance you need. Investigate available community respite services, such as friendly visiting, adult day care programs and residential facilities that offer short-term care. Also look into volunteer driver programs and accessible transportation services that can free you up from chauffeuring duties. Information on these and other resources can be obtained from the local office on aging. Hire Help Pay for help if you can afford it – for example, a dog walker, housecleaning service, grounds keeping service, handyman or accountant. Hire a professional organizer if you’re overwhelmed by paper or general clutter. If finances permit, hire a companion or personal support worker for your relative so you can regularly get out to a club, class or some other leisure activity. Let loved ones know that a gift certificate to a home healthcare agency or an IOU for respite

care would be welcomed for special occasions. Streamline and Prioritize Curb perfectionism. Not everything needs to be done to a high standard; take housework and yard maintenance, for example. Set a time limit for chores if necessary. Establish and stick to priorities, so you don’t waste time or energy on unimportant things. Be flexible about plans and expectations, since your relative’s needs and, consequently, your energy level are likely to vary/fluctuate. Adapt Activities of Daily Living If you don’t already have one, get an answering machine to screen calls. Concentrate home cleaning and tidying efforts on rooms that are used the most. Collect recipes for one-dish meals, such as casseroles, stews, stir fries and main course salads. Cook double batches of recipes and freeze half for later use. Keep a supply of heat-and-serve entrees in the freezer. Buy convenience foods that reduce preparation time: packaged salads, shredded cheese and boneless chicken breasts, for example. Order takeout meals periodically; just ensure choices are healthy.

Arrange with the bank for direct deposit of pension and other checks and automatic withdrawal of regular bills. Sign up for telephone banking or Internet banking so you can pay bills, transfer money and check balances from home. Shop by mail order whenever possible. Take advantage of stores and other services that offer home delivery – for example, grocery stores, drug stores and dry cleaners. Research mobile services in your area, such as foot care or phlebotomy (taking blood) if the care receiver requires one or both on a regular basis, dental hygiene services, hairdressing, dog grooming, car washing and detailing, and automobile servicing and repair. Keep to-do lists, consolidate errands and avoid peak use times of the day, week and month when visiting stores, banks, government offices and other establishments. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior health matters. She has personal experience with family caregiving.

Page 14 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

FREMONT COUNTY/SALIDA MENUS GOLDEN AGE CENTER 728 N. Main St.-Canon City Mon-Fri

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● Feb. 3: Sloppy Joe on a bun, scalloped potatoes, broccoli and carrots, apple ● Feb. 4: Cream of potato soup, tuna salad wrap, lettuce/tomato slices, creamy coleslaw, cantaloupe ● Feb. 5: Macaroni and cheese, tossed vegetable salad, asparagus, banana, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 6: Spinach lasagna, green beans, salad with lite Italian, banana, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 7: Chicken and noodles, green beans, baked acorn squash, apricot pineapple compote, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 10: Chili con carne, cornbread, spinach salad with mandarin orange, spinach salad dressing, apricot pineapple compote ● Feb. 11: Porcupine meatballs, whipped potatoes with gravy, California veg medley, pears, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 12: Dijon chicken, brown rice, broccoli florets, tossed vegetable salad, strawberries, raisin nut cup, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 13: Lemon baked fish, tarter sauce and lemon rice pilaf, creamy coleslaw, green beans with mushrooms, apple and ww bread ● Feb. 14: Beef stew, steamed cauliflower, cornbread, tossed

salad with lite ranch, banana ● Feb. 17: Closed – Presidents Day ● Feb. 18: Enchilada pie, refried beans, tortilla chips with salsa, clementines ● Feb. 19: California veggie bake, spinach salad with egg and lite Italian, pear and citrus cup, oatmeal raisin cookie, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 20: Taco salad, salsa, tomato, lettuce, strawberry, applesauce, flan custard, cornbread with butter ● Feb. 21: Smothered chicken, cornbread stuffing, peas and carrots, cauliflower/broccoli, applesauce Waldorf salad ● Feb. 24: Salmon patties, cream sauce, steamed brown rice with parsley, mixed vegetables, tangerine, raising nut cup, ww bread with butter ● Feb. 25: Roast pork with brown gravy, oven browned potatoes, spinach mandarin, orange salad, parslied carrots, apple, ww roll ● Feb. 26: Hamburger on a bun, catsup, mustard, onion, split pea soup, creamy coleslaw, banana ● Feb. 27: Turkey submarine sandwich on ww hoagie roll, vegetable soup, potato salad, orange, oatmeal raisin cookie ● Feb. 28: Smothered pork chop, cream gravy, smashed red potatoes, cooked collard greens, apple, bran muffin

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 15

SENIOR SAFETY

New Campaign Designed to Fight Scammers THE SOCIAL SECURITY Administration launched a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) campaign to continue warning people about the ongoing nationwide telephone impersonation scheme. The PSAs feature a message from Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul. Social Security and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) continue to receive reports about fraudulent phone calls from people falsely claiming to be Social Security employees. The scammers mislead victims into making cash or gift card payments for help with purported identity theft, or to avoid arrest for bogus Social Security number problems. “I want every American to know that if a suspicious caller states there is a problem with their Social Security number or account, they should hang up and never give the caller money or personal information. People should then go online to oig.ssa.gov to report the scam call to Social Security,” said Commissioner Saul. People should also be on the lookout for a new version of this scam. Fraudsters are now emailing fake documents in attempts to get people to comply with their demands. Victims have received emails with attached letters and reports that appear to be from Social Security or the OIG. The letters may use official letterhead and government jargon to convince victims they are legitimate; they may also

This month’s Senior Safety Page is Proudly Sponsored by AMERICAN VEIN INSTITUTE. Give them a call right away! And thank them for sponsoring this valuable addition to the Senior Beacon!! contain misspellings and grammar mistakes. Social Security employees do occasionally contact people--generally those who have ongoing business with the agency--by telephone for business purposes. However, Social Security employees will never threaten a person, or promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money. In those cases, the call is fraudulent and people should just hang up. Generally, the agency mainly calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, someone who is already receiving payments and requires an update to their record, or a person who has requested a phone call from the agency. If a person is not in one of these situations, they normally would not receive a call from the agency. Social Security will not: Tell you that your Social Security number has been suspended. Contact you to demand an immediate payment. Ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. Require a specific means of debt repayment, like a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash. Demand that you pay a Social

Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe. Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money.

If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, in most cases Social Security will mail a letter. If a person needs to submit payments to Social Security, the agency will send a letter with instructions and payment options. People should never provide information or payment over the phone or Internet unless they are certain of who is receiving it.

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 17

THE WELL-DRESSED GARDEN

Going With the Grain THERE'S A REASON why farmers -- not gardeners -- are the great producers of wheat, oats, barley, and other major grains: These are challenging crops to manage. But other MARTY ROSS Freelance garden interesting journalist and and beautiful syndicated gardening columnist grains are easy to grow in your own backyard, and they put dash and drama in among the daisies. Growing ornamental grains is richly rewarding. Easy garden grains, such as millet and amaranth, are striking plants by themselves, and they are terrific in combination with annual and perennial flowers and shrubs. Garden designers love grains for their brashness: They tend to stand up tall in a garden, making them a great choice for the back of a flower bed or the center of a bed you can see from all sides. Tall varieties of millet and amaranth -- sun-loving annuals that are easy to grow from seed -- will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with canna lilies or tall sunflowers. The dark foliage of Purple Majesty millet, which grows up to five feet tall in the garden, makes a striking backdrop for smaller summer flowers, and its dramatic flower spikes, which resemble cattails, are as handsome in flower arrangements as they are in the garden. Purple Majesty comes straight off the farm: It was discovered in the course of a breeding program for forage grains at the University of Nebraska. The breeder's background and the majority of his work "is feeding the world, not providing ornamental flowers," says Mary O'Connor, a product manager for Pan American Seed who now works with the university's experts on ornamental millet. The instant popularity of Purple Majesty led to the introduction of shorter ornamental millets and to a greater range of colors, O'Connor says. Jester grows to only 3 feet tall; another small millet, Jade Princess, is only about 2 feet tall and has dense purple flower spikes that stand out against chartreuse foliage. Ornamental grains of all kinds have especially caught on with flower farmers, who supply bouquets by the bucketful for farmers' markets and have a growing

Ornamental grains fit nicely into the niche, she says: They give bouquets and centerpieces an earthy sophistication. Amaranth has been grown as an ornamental for generations. It is "an old-timey garden plant; it touches the heartstrings of a lot of people," says Mary Garcia, a spokesperson for Swallowtail Garden Seeds, a mail-order seed company that offers 10 different kinds of amaranth seeds. The old-fashioned amaranth called Love-Lies-Bleeding is one of the showiest, and it's easy to grow in the garden or in pots. One of the most popular amaranth varieties is Hot Biscuits, a tall plant with tawny-gold seed heads in fall.

The heavy seed clusters are dramatic in a garden and gorgeous in a bouquet. Last year, the lifestyle and garden shop Terrain in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, gave Hot Biscuits a prominent spot in a flower bed featuring orange, crimson and gold flowers, foliage, and seed heads. If you're interested in cultivating a crop of wheat, barley or oats for bouquets, the best place to plant them might be in a row in the vegetable garden, where you can give them the special care they need. But go ahead and make room for millet and amaranth varieties in flower beds or in a big pot. They'll sparkle in the garden and turn bouquets into works of art.

MAJOR GRAINS. Jade Princess millet has lime-green leaves and a mounded shape. It is a compact plant that performs best in areas with hot summers. Seeds can be sown directly in a pot; here it flourishes in a pot with ornamental peppers.

influence with florists and event planners. "Demand for ornamental grains -- and grasses -- is strong in the floral design world," says Debra Prinzing, author of "The 50-Mile Bouquet" and "Slow Flowers," which both feature the specialty blooms of flower farmers around the country. Ornamental grains are "not really a product that the huge South American exporters take the time to grow," Prinzing says, and consequently, U.S. flower farmers have turned several ornamental grains into top sellers. Prinzing calls ornamental grains "the couture category of specialty floral." Diane Szukovathy, owner of Jello Mold Farm in Mount Vernon, Washington, grows about 150 different cut-flower varieties on her 7-acre farm, including half an acre planted with 10 different kinds of amaranth, another traditional farm crop that is worthy of a spot in the garden and easy to grow. "We are botanical freaks," Szukovathy says, explaining her interest in ornamental grains. She has also experimented with wheats -- especially a showy variety called Silver Tips -- and has grown orach, sorghum, quinoa and millet, as well. Cut-flower trends are always changing, Szukovathy says, but the wildflower look is a perennial favorite with brides for bouquets and wedding decorations.

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Page 18 - Senior Beacon - February 2020 RELIGION

On The Campaign Trail AS AMERICA FACES another presidential election year, I thought it would be fun to look at some presidential campaign slogans and promises throughout our country’s history. DARLENE FRANKLIN “TippeWriting at the Crossroads canoe and of Love and Grace Tyler, Too” has been labeled the “gold standard” of campaign slogans ("As Americans Vote . . .") because of rhyme, rhythm, and alliteration. Unfortunately, winning candidate William Henry Harrison died thirty days into office in 1841. Abraham Lincoln delivered on his first campaign slogan, “Vote yourself a farm,” when the Homestead Acts of 1862 became law. In the 1864 campaign, it changed to “Don’t change horses when crossing streams,” urging voters to stay the course in the middle of the Civil War. William McKinley rode the economic prosperity of his first term to seek reelection with his slogan, --

Abraham Lincoln delivered on his first campaign slogan, “Vote yourself a farm,” when the Homestead Acts of 1862 became law. In the 1864 campaign, it changed to “Don’t change horses when crossing streams,” urging voters to stay the course in the middle of the Civil War. “Four more years of the full dinner pail.” He used the lunch pail much the way Trump used his ball cap, to identify with working class people. Woodrow Wilson’s second campaign said, “He kept us out of war.” Much like Bush’s promise of “No new taxes,” it fell flat when American finally did enter the war in the first year of his second term, 1917. Americans chanted “I (still) like Ike” through two elections in landslide victories over his opponent. I’m not surprised after twenty years of Democrat leadership with a popular World War II general as the candidate. President Eisenhower was president for the first five-anda-half years of my life. Here’s the running list of the presidents of our lifetime.

John Kennedy called for “A time for greatness”. Man landed on the moon in July 1969, fulfilling his promise. Lyndon Johnson won the presidency on his own after Kennedy’s assassination in 1964 with the slogan, “All the Way with LBJ.” He promised to end the war in Vietnam, but. . . Richard Nixon accomplished it. His campaign buttons rhymed with the now racy, “They Can’t Lick our Dick.” Gerald Ford was never elected to the position. He wasn’t even the vice president; Agnew had already resigned. Jimmy Carter asked, ‘Why not the best?” and promised never to lie. That got him into trouble.

Ronald Reagan asked, “Are you better off than you were four years ago?” Unlike Carter, Reagan did lie when he said he hadn’t traded arms for hostages during the Iranian hostage crisis. George H.W. Bush inspired us with a “Thousand Points of Light” and wooed us with “Read my lips: no new taxes.” That promise failed the test of reality. Bill Clinton promised to “put people first” and roll back big government, aiming to work with a Republican-dominated Congress. Maybe he tried. . . George W. Bush campaigned for his second term by promising “a safer world and a more hopeful America.” He did steer our country in the dark days after 9-11. Barack Obama said, “Yes, we can.” He promised to win without lobbyist dollars, but his definition was narrow. Donald Trump wants to “Make America Great Again.” Love him or hate him, he’s definitely made his mark. What campaign will win this year’s election? Let’s all make sure to place our votes.

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AARP FOUNDATION TAX-AIDE PROGRAM AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation assistance and electronic filing beginning February 1st and continuing through April 15. 2020 at 13 locations in the Colorado Springs area. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS certified each year to ensure they know and understand the latest changes to the US Tax Code. In 2019, the program’s volunteers helped 2.8 million people navigate complicated tax codes, ensure proper credits and deductions, and file their federal and state tax returns. You don’t have to be an AARP member and there is no age requirement to get tax help from IRS-certified volunteers. Check the Tax Aide Site Locator (https://www. aarp.org/FindTaxHelp) for locations near you or call 888-227-7669 toll free.

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 19

SOCIAL SECURITY & YOU

JOSH WELLER, PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST-SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION - PUEBLO COUNTY, FREMONT COUNTY AND EL PASO COUNTY

Should Congress Modify Social Security COLA? EIGHTY-FIVE PERCENT

of retirees think Congress should modify Social Security to provide a higher annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), and they support very gradually raising payroll taxes to pay for it, according to a new survey by The Senior Citizens League (TSCL). “Older Americans feel the COLA does not adequately protect their Social Security benefits from rising costs, and a large majority want Congress to strengthen the COLA and Social Security’s financing, says Mary Johnson, a Social Security and Medicare policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League. COLAs have been at unprecedented lows for more than a decade, averaging just 1.4 percent annually. There was no COLA paid at all in 2010, 2011, and 2016, and only 0.3 percent paid in 2017. In contrast, COLAs averaged 3 percent per year from 1999 to 2009 — more than twice the average over the past 11 years. At the same time that COLAs have been at record lows, Medicare Part B premiums have grown nearly three times as fast. Since 2010, COLAs grew by a total of 15.2 percentage points, while Medicare Part B premiums increased by 44.5 percentage points. When asked how Congress should modify the COLA, The Senior Citizens League’s survey found 38 percent of participants support tying the annual inflation boost to a “senior CPI,” the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), which tends to grow .25 percentage point more rapidly than the current CPI. Forty-seven percent support providing a minimum COLA guarantee — of no less than 3 percent. In 2020, Social Security recipients receive a COLA increase of 1.6 percent, raising the average $1,500 retirement benefit by about $24 per month. A COLA based on the CPI-E, however, would have paid 1.9 percent, and that would raise the average benefit by about $28.50 per month in 2020. A 3 percent minimum would raise average benefits by $45 per month. The difference in the COLA can seem quite small at first but, when compounded over time, a more adequate COLA provides more income when retirees are the oldest

and more likely to have spent down retirement savings. When costs during retirement grow faster than the COLA, that erodes buying power and Social Security benefits are worth less over time,” says Johnson. Research by Johnson has found that Social Security benefits have lost about one third of their buying

power since 2000. The Senior Citizens League supports legislation that would provide a modest boost in Social Security benefits and strengthen Social Security financing. To learn more, visit www.SeniorsLeague.org. ### With 1.2 million supporters, The

Senior Citizens League is one of the nation’s largest nonpartisan seniors’ groups. Its mission is to promote and assist members and supporters, to educate and alert senior citizens about their rights and freedoms as U.S. Citizens, and to protect and defend the benefits senior citizens have earned and paid for.

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Page 20 - Senior Beacon - February 2020 SOCIAL SECURITY & YOU Question: What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? Answer: SSI provides monthly income to people with limited income and financial resources. People who never worked at a job that withdrew Social Security tax won’t qualify for Social Security, but may still be eligible for SSI. To be eligible, an individual must be a citizen and resident of the United States or be a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence. There are, however, some noncitizens granted a special immigration status that are also eligible. To get SSI, an individual’s financial resources (savings and assets) cannot be more than $2,000 ($3,000, if married). Recipients must be age 65 or older, or blind or disabled. For more information, please read SSI or What You Need To Know When You Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both are available at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Question:

Are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits subject to federal income tax? Answer: No. SSI payments are not subject to federal taxes. If you get SSI, you will not receive an annual form SSA-1099. However, your Social Security benefits may be subject to income tax. Learn more at www. socialsecurity.gov. Question: I have a neighbor who is disabled and has been receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for quite some time. Recently, he’s been trying to find employment. Is there any way I can help? Answer: Yes. You can help by letting him know about Social Security’s free Ticket to Work program. When people take part in the program, they can get help finding a job, vocational rehabilitation, or other assistance. Employment networks -- organizations that help you find and keep a job while supplying other employment resources at

no cost -- provide these services. Ticket to Work gives people the opportunity to work with a variety of employment networks. If you or someone you know is interested in using the Ticket to Work program, visit www.choosework.net and click “Find Help” or call the Ticket Helpline at 1-866-968-7842 (TTY 1-866-833-2967). Question: I know someone who believes it’s not a big deal to cheat a little on their Supplemental Security Income application. What can I tell them to dissuade them from giving false information? Answer: Social Security not only seeks criminal charges against and imprisonment of people who give false, incomplete, or inaccurate information, we also have the authority to impose civil monetary penalties against people who commit fraud. When we find evidence that someone provided false information or withheld information that would have prevented him or her or someone else from collecting benefits, we can impose a civil

monetary penalty of up to $5,000 for each occurrence. We are also authorized to impose administrative sanctions. During a sanction period, benefits stop. The sanction periods are 6 months for the first occurrence, 12 months for the second occurrence, and 24 months for each additional occurrence. You can report fraud online at http:// oig.ssa.gov/report or call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800269-0271. Question: I receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and I just got promoted and received a pay increase at my job. Do I need to tell Social Security about the promotion? Answer: Because the Supplemental Security Income program is needsbased, the amount of the payment you receive is partly based on your income. You need to report your wages monthly to make sure you get timely and accurate payments. The law requires you to report your earnings by phone or mail or take your pay stubs to Social Security at the beginning of each month. When you report your earnings, make sure to include overtime, vacation pay, and bonuses. If your income changes because of a job loss or promotion, Social Security will likely either increase or decrease your payments. Learn more by reading the fact sheet, Reporting Wages When You Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Question: I am receiving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. I just got married, and I am wondering if my benefits, and my new spouse’s benefits, will stay the same. Answer: If you marry, your spouse’s income and resources may change your SSI benefit. It is your responsibility to report your status change to Social Security as soon as possible. If you and your spouse both get SSI, your benefit amount will change from an individual rate to a couple’s rate. If you are receiving Social Security benefits as a widow, divorced widow, widower, or divorced widower, other factors to keep in mind are: • You cannot get benefits if you remarry before age 60; and • You cannot get benefits if you’re disabled and remarry before age 50. Generally, your benefits end if you were receiving divorced spouse’s benefits and you remarry. You can read more about SSI and Social Security benefits at our publications library, available at www. socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

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February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 21

OPINION-EDITORIAL

DAVID SHRIBMAN

Post-Gazette emeritus executive editor and a nationally syndicated columnist.

ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN IN IOWA IT'S LESS THAN

10 days before Iowans, possibly braving bitter cold and blowing snow, head to school libraries, church basements, community centers and veterans’ halls to begin the formal process of choosing the Democratic presidential nominee. The outcome is as uncertain as the weather. Iowans are accustomed to making daring decisions. They chose a former director of central intelligence, George H.W. Bush, over a conservative icon who had been a twoterm governor of California, Ronald Reagan, in 1980. Some 28 years later they chose an unknown senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, over a onetime

vice-presidential nominee, John Edwards, and a first lady-turned-senator, Hillary Clinton. Almost three-quarters of the winners of contested races in Iowa since 1972 have won their party’s nomination, but just two (Jimmy Carter and Mr. Obama) won the White House. So Iowa sets the table but doesn’t necessarily serve up the meal. Even so, no one doubts the importance of the caucuses, and no one, except former Mayor Mike Bloomberg of New York, is willing to bypass them. And this time, the struggle to win Iowa is more obscured than usual. "This contest is far more unsettled than most," says a veteran caucus observer, Dennis Goldford, a political scientist at Des Moines’ Drake University. "There is nobody running away with this. Iowa caucuses bring surprises, and right now there is no clear front-runner. Huge numbers are undecided or subject to change their minds. Anyone who would predict the winner would be foolish." That’s partially because no one knows whether Amy Klobuchar is surging. Her poll numbers are low, but she has visited all 99 counties and is airing ads like mad. She’s the senator from Minnesota, which shares a long border at 43º 30′ N, roughly near the divide between the watersheds of the Des Moines, Iowa and Blue Earth rivers. Geography matters. For one thing, it

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makes it easy for her supporters to flood across the border to assist her candidacy. The 1988 caucuses are illustrative. They were won by Rep. Richard A. Gephardt of Missouri, which borders Iowa at the south, with Sen. Paul Simon of Illinois, which borders Iowa to the east, coming in second. (Geography is not infallible. Rep. Michelle Bachman of Minnesota came in sixth in a field of seven in 2012, with barely over 6,000 votes.) No one knows for sure whether former Mayor Pete Buttigieg of South Bend, Ind., has peaked. He led the polls in the state from mid-November through the end of December but may have faded since then. Former Vice President Joe Biden has been leading in recent days, but his fortunes have risen and fallen like the levels of the Mississippi River, where the Iowa cities of Burlington, Bettendorf, Davenport, Dubuque and Marquette sit. Those are only some of the moving parts bearing on the caucuses. Indeed, there have been several changes in the structure of the contest in recent days, and the most significant have come from the East, which has shaped Iowa since the Black Hawk Treaty of 1833 opened most of the state to white settlement. The 2020 influences come from New York and Washington. From New York comes The New York Times' double endorsement of Ms. Klobuchar and Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Though candidates actively seek the endorsement of The Des Moines Register, newspaper endorsements ordinarily do not provide substantial boosts to candidates. (Best example: In 1972, the Manchester

Union Leader supported Mayor Sam Yorty of Los Angeles in the Democratic race. Yorty won 6% of the vote that year.) Endorsements from far away — especially from New York, especially from The Times, especially at a time of press distrust — have little possibility of possessing much weight. But this one might. No one will vote for the Minnesotan on the basis of The Times recommendation. But the endorsement has the potential of elevating Ms. Klobuchar into the top tier. Then anything can happen. The second factor is in Washington, also where anything can happen — except perhaps a Senate vote removing President Donald Trump from office. But the Senate trial now underway requires all sitting senators to do exactly that — sit. And by sitting in the Senate chamber, Ms. Klobuchar, Ms. Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont aren’t running in Iowa. They are hostages to the Senate trial, leaving Mr. Biden and Mr. Buttigieg with all the airtime and attention. The three senators at the top of the race are sidelined. So is Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado, who is struggling for air in the presidential race and now is essentially out of breath. The Times editorial does in some way reshape the race, which once had a progressive lane (Mr. Sanders, Ms. Warren, perhaps others now departed), a moderate lane (Mr. Buttigieg, Ms. Klobuchar) and an outsider lane (Mr. Bloomberg, Tom Steyer and Andrew Yang). But now it is possible to see the Democratic race differently, and to discern a new architecture to the contest.

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FOUR (4) IMPERIAL GARDENS Cemetery plots for sale. --Located in the Hillcrest section, Lot #310. --Individual plots currently retail for $3,895 each. --Selling price for the four plots is $6,700. Contact information: Carl Harbour 541-420-5011 charb12149@aol.com

CNA WILL DO home health care for your loved ones. Hospital and nursing home, 26 years experience.

Call me & we can discuss your concerns Donna: 719-470-5560

NEED HELP SHOPPING, errands, rides, organizations or meal preparation? “I can make #0420 your life easier.” **Bonded and Insured, also animal-friendly** AD&H-HANDYMAN: Property Clean-up Services-Repairs: Call Paulette 303-319-0613 Minor electrical/plumbing/carno answer, please leave a message pentry. Trash haul-off. Rock land#0320w scaping Cleaning. Special Needs SHARE YOUR JOURNEY: Need Sensitive! Cañon City local surhelp documenting the highlights of rounding areas. Will Travel. Call your life story? Ellyn makes it easy 719-429-0775. Handy_Iam@out#0220 with an on-site interview and scanMARY’S TYPING SERVICE: ning of your pictures. The result is a look.com

Living + last wills: $25/50; Bankruptcy, 7’s: $200/335; Divorces:$150/200; Phone: 392-9624 or 459-8231.

colorful hardback memoir that will CALL (719) 251-2535 be a family keepsake.

Specializing in Special Needs

#0320

WANTED: VINYL RECORDS: from 1950s and 1960s; 45s, 78s, LPs. Also sheet music from same period with artist/group pictured on front. (719) 566-7975 after 11:00.

grateful

“When I decided to volunteer at Silver Key’s Food Pantry, I knew it would be rewarding. I was surprised to ﬁnd out how thankful it makes me feel to help others who may not be as fortunate as I am. The seniors served through the pantry really appreciate the food and necessities they receive and I like knowing it helps them stretch their limited budgets further. I have a lot of fun making a diﬀerence in a senior’s life.”

Be part of something important. Apply to volunteer at silverkey.org/volunteer or call 719-884-2300.

#0819

Call: Ellyn Reynolds, Personal ramps, doors painting, plus much Biographer 251-9808. #0220

more.

Carl

251-2535

#0220w

Don’t let dental costs keep you from smiling! As a non-profit organization, we provide honest, ethical dental care focused on your personal wants and needs. We accept Medicaid, other insurance, and have financial assistance available! Colorado Springs

(719) 310-3315

Grand Avenue Dental

Pueblo (719) 542-5300

www.CommunityDentalHealth.org

SENIOR CLASSIFIED AD REQUEST This classified ad section of the Senior Beacon carries advertising of all sorts. The cost is $10.00 for the first 20 words or less and $.25 for each word over twenty words. TO PLACE AN AD either: (1) Write your ad in the space provided below. Please print clearly. _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Phone:_________________ Your Name:______________________ Then mail ad and check (send no cash) to:

Silver Key

#0419

Senior Beacon

P.O. Box 8485

Pueblo, CO 81008

(2) Email your ad to BeaconNewsGroup@gmail.com

(3) Visit SeniorBeacon.info and click the “advertise” page

Deadline is the 20th of the month

(allow mailing time)

VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

Musical Monday-Colorado College: Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-2:30 Free Lots of Love Food Drive: Mon-Fri, Feb 3-7, 8-5 Free Baked with Love-Bake Sale: Thurs, Feb 13, 12-3 $1 per item Cupid’s Social-We Love Our Community! Fri, Feb 14, 1:30-2:30 $5 Blood Drive-You’re Somebody’s Type! Tues, Feb 18, 1-4:30 Free Mardi Gras Mix & Mingle: Tues, Feb 25, 1:30-2:30 $5

Space Foundation Discovery Center: Fri, Feb 7, 11-3:30 $35 Cripple Creek Ice Festival: Tues, Feb 11, 10-5 $30 Adam’s Mystery Playhouse-A Monster Murder: They Came From Below: Fri, Feb 21 4-10 $75 Dog Sledding in Breckenridge: Thurs, Feb 27 9-7 $100

Moving Into a Senior Living Community: Tues, Feb 4 3:30-4:30 Free Reverse Mortgage: Unraveling the Myths: Wed, Feb 5, 9:30-11 Free Real Estate Probate: Mon, Feb 10, 1-2:30 $5 Downsizing: Wed, Feb 12, 1-2:30 Free The Truth About “The Stuff” Wed, Feb 12, 10-11:30 Free The Truth About Senior Living Communities: Tues, Feb 18, 1:30-3 Free The Superstitions of Mardi Gras: Tues, Feb 18-25 10-11:30 $12 Annuities 101: Wed, Feb 19, 1011:30 Free San Francisco: The Earthquake, Fire & Bubonic Plague of 19051907: Mon, Feb 24,1-3 $5 Veterans of Foreign Wars: Tues, Feb 25, 10-11 Free CarFit: Thurs, Feb 27, 1-3 Free

Intro to Gmail: Wed, Feb 5, 10-11 $10 Shutterfly: Thurs, Feb 6, 9:30-11 $15 All About Facebook: Mon, Feb 10, 9:30-11:30 $20 1 on 1 Technology Help: Fri, Feb 21, 3-4:30 $10

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 23

Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: Mon, Feb 3, 10-11:30 Where to Start to Love Your Heart: Fri, Feb 7, 10:30-11:30 Cooking with Essential Oils: Mon, Feb 10, 10-11 Breath & Be: Thurs, Feb 13, 10-11 Love Your Heart: Tues, Feb 18, 1011 Prescription for Change: Why Exercise is a Medicine Your Don’t Want to Stop Taking: Wed, Feb 19, 10-11 Knowing Your DNR Status: Fri, Feb 21, 10-11 Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Mon, Feb 24, 10-11:30 Nurse Chats: Women and Heart Disease: Wed, Feb 26, 9-10

We appreciate your $1.00 donation . Every dollar helps offset the cost of

Thursday Dances: 1:30-3 Ping Pong Fridays:1:30-2:30 Movie Fridays: 1-3 AARP Driver Safety Class: Wed, Feb 5 or 19, 1-5 Private Music Lessons: Tuesdays, by appointment only Silver Key Connections Café: Lunch, Mon-Fri, 11:15-12:15 No

reservation necessary

Colorado Creative Co-op: Find Senior Center patron’s art work for sale in Old Colorado City! 2513 1, 2 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Free Fall Prevention Classes

NATIONALLY, ONE in every three adults will fall each year leading to devastating physical and emotional strains. But falls are not a normal part of the aging process and can be prevented. St. Thomas More Hospital, 1338 Phay Ave., Cañon City, offers several fall prevention programs, the programs are evidence-based to prevent falls in the older population. “Stepping On” helps individuals learn how to prevent falls and gain confidence which helps keep participants independent and living at home. This program meets for two hours once a week for seven weeks. There is no charge. Participants will learn: strength and balance exercises to practice at home, how medications can affect fall risks, how to engage in home modifications to reduce risk

of falls, how safe footwear and vision can affect risk of falling, and much more. “Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance” will improve balance and reduce the likelihood of falling, as well as improve overall health. This program meets for 30 minutes twice a week for 12 weeks. There is no charge. Participants can see an improvement in their balance,

as well as other medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, Parkinson’s, diabetes, arthritis, and more. The class will lead to better functioning during daily activities as well as improvement in mental health. For more information or to register for either class, contact Nancy Bartkowiak at 719.285.2345 or NancyBartkowiak@Centura.org.

Painting with Oil & Acrylics: Thurs, Feb 6-27, 9-11:30 $47

We offer several exercise and dance classes:

Personal & Small Group Training Massage Therapy Yoga: Beginner, Gentle Flow and Chair Silver Sneakers: Open Gym, Stability Classic, Circuit, Stretch It Cardio Drumming TaijiFit: Combines traditional Tai Chi & modern Western fitness. Zumba Jazz Dance Fitness Dance Classes: Line Dancing, Fox Trot, Jitterbug Nia: Fusion of martial arts, dance, and healing art.

Page 24 - Senior Beacon - February 2020 HOME TOUCH

Age-In-Place Space ACTIVE BABY BOOMERS

-- sometimes called "zoomers" -are having new homes constructed with a universal design concept that allows aging in place. Despite the economic downturn that began in MARY G. PEPITON 2008, many of Freelance writer with Andrews McMeel these retirees Sundication Universal continue to gravitate to new homes built in active-adult communities in warmer climates located throughout North America. With housing developments that may also have a central clubhouse, community swimming pool, golf course and social calendar programmed with activities and events, these newly built homes come with a ready-made community of like-minded active adults, says Lyndsay Higgins, director of marketing for Robson Resort Communities with eight retirement

developments featuring more than 20,000 homes located in Arizona and Texas. "The 60-something-year-old demographic is acting younger than ever, and their homes reflect that," Higgins says. "The homes we build aren't what another generation might remember as their grandparents' house." Whether active adults are purchasing a second home in a warmer climate, or downsizing after retirement, Higgins says these folks are attracted to ranch-style homes that have no steps to climb up and down. Wally Campbell is a Robson Resort Communities resident with a home in the Temple Creek subdivision, located in Goodyear, Ariz. She and her husband, John, moved into their 2,200-square-foot home in June 2000, and enjoy the perks of one-level living. "One of the things I love the most about our home is that from the moment you open the front door, you're able to see the entire living area, all on one level, with an open floor plan," she says.

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Creating an environment that encourages outdoor living, while also bringing the outside to the inside of a home is what many of these newly constructed homes strive to achieve, Higgins says. "Outdoor living spaces can include an outdoor kitchen, water features and an outdoor fireplace," she says. "These amenities increase a home's square footage outside and let residents soak up the sun, which is an escape from the winter weather in other parts of the country." Campbell says their three-bedroom, two-bath home has a kitchen that flows into a family or great room. "The way we entertain with our friends and neighbors here doesn't require a formal dining and living room," Wally says. "Gatherings can just spill over from the kitchen/great room area right outside into the courtyard area." Higgins says seniors may be moving into smaller homes, but they want to use of every single square foot of space in it. Robson and many other "smart-sized" homes have designs in which none of their floor plans have hallways to the bedrooms, which many consider a waste of space. "Some people also opt to build a Casita off the courtyard, which is a separate guest house that includes a bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette," Higgins says. "Our floor plans have flexibility built into them, which allows for the opportunity to expand." Home offices or dens are popular additions to floor plans for active aging adults. Many continue to work and are involved in their com-

munity, including Campbell, who was elected to her city council. "No matter what you do, it seems like we all need access to a computer," she says. "Which is why we set up an office in our home." Sometimes it's the unseen aspects that make a home more comfortable than ever. "We are building homes that are energy efficient," Higgins says. "Our homes can have added insulation, and energy star-rated appliances and windows." Campbell says her home was built to a standard called the "energy star series," which also includes a lifetime tile roof that won't need replacing. Some communities even offer home packages that have a solar-powered panel system and solar-powered attic fan. Higgins says in addition to selling homes, Robson Resort Communities is also selling a lifestyle. "More builders are offering universal design as a concept so retirees can age in place," she says. "The key is to make accessibility accommodations in a home, without making it look too institutional." Universal design can mean one-story living with wider doors, an entrance with no stairs, nonslip flooring, grab bars with step-free showers in bathrooms, lower kitchen cabinets and readily accessible light switches. Today's one-level living for active adults has smarter bedroom placement, laundry facilities, storage opportunities, home offices, energy-efficient packages and open floor plans with a kitchen/great room that has easy access to outdoor living.

Quality Donations Accepted!

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Phone (719) 276-2676

Address CaĂąon: 3170 E. Main Street Pueblo: 2930 N. Elizabeth St.

Call for a free donation pickup!

VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 25

MEDICARE AND YOU

1-800-MEDICARE | 1-800-MEDICARE | General Medicare information, ordering Medicare booklets, and information about health plans | Toll free: 800-633-4227 | Medicare.gov

Signing up for Medicare For 2020 Some people get Part A and Part B automatically If you’re already getting benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), you’ll automatically get Part A and Part B starting the first day of the month you turn 65. (If your birthday is on the first day of the month, Part A and Part B will start the first day of the prior month.) If you’re under 65 and have a disability, you’ll automatically get Part A and Part B after you get disability benefits from Social Security or certain disability benefits from the RRB for 24 months. If you have ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also called Lou Gehrig’s disease), you’ll get Part A and Part B automatically the month your Social Security disability benefits begin. If you’re automatically enrolled, you’ll get your red, white, and blue Medicare card in the mail 3 months before your 65th birthday or 25th month of disability benefits. If you do nothing, you’ll keep Part B and will have to pay Part B premiums through your Social Security benefits. You can choose not to keep Part B, but if you decide you want Part B later, you may have to wait to enroll and pay a penalty for as long as you have Part B. Note: If you need to replace your card because it’s damaged or lost, sign in to your MyMedicare.gov account to print an official copy of your Medicare card. If you don’t have an account, visit MyMedicare. gov to create one. If you need to replace your card because you think that someone else is using your number, call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

most cases, if you don’t sign up for Part B when you’re first eligible, you may have a delay in getting Medicare coverage in the future (in some cases over a year), and you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B. If you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and you want Medicare, you’ll need to sign up. Contact Social Security to find out when and how to sign up for Part A and Part B. For more information, visit Medicare.gov/publications to view the booklet “Medicare Coverage of Kidney Dialysis & Kidney Transplant Services.” If you live in Puerto Rico and get benefits from Social Security or the RRB, you’ll automatically get Part A the first day of the month you turn 65 or after you get disability benefits for 24 months. However, if you want Part B, you’ll need to sign up for it by completing an “Application for Enrollment in Part B Form” (CMS40B). If you don’t sign up for Part B when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B. See page 22. Visit CMS.gov/medicare/ cms-forms/cms-forms/cms-forms-

items/cms017339.html to get Form CMS-40B in English or Spanish. Contact your local Social Security office or RRB for more information. Where can I get more information? Call Social Security at 1-800772-1213 for more information about your Medicare eligibility and to sign up for Part A and/or Part B. TTY users can call 1-800-3250778. If you worked for a railroad or get RRB benefits, call the RRB at 1-877-772-5772. TTY users can call 1-312-751-4701. You can also get free, personalized health insurance counseling from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). See pages 109–112 for the phone number. Initial Enrollment Period You can first sign up for Part A and/or Part B during the 7-month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65. If you sign up for Part A and/or Part B during the first 3 months of your Initial Enrollment Period, in

Senior Beacon

Senior Beacon serves Pueblo, El Paso, Fremont and the 12 surrounding counties that make up most of Southeastern Colorado. It is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, educate and entertain the Senior Community of these areas. Subscriptions are available, prepaid with order, at $34.95 for one 12-month period. Send your order to the mailing list below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinions of the writers and not necessarily that of the publisher. Senior Beacon is locally owned and operated. Founded in February of 1982.

BEACON NEWS GROUP d/b/a Senior Beacon P.O. Box 8485 Pueblo, CO 81008 Publisher Beacon News Group Publisher Emeritus, CCO James R. Grasso Advertising Manager Ronald S. Phillips Advertising Executives Jan McLaughlin Rick Forman Mark Phillips Jim Grasso Graphic Design and Layout Christine Ina Casillas Distribution Manager Braden Phillips IT Support Robin Eckelberry

Some people have to sign up for Part A and/or Part B If you’re close to 65, but not getting Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits, you’ll need to sign up for Medicare. Contact Social Security 3 months before you turn 65. You can also apply for Part A and Part B at ssa.gov/ benefits/medicare. If you worked for a railroad, contact the RRB. In

BeaconNewsGroup@gmail.com

JOLYNN ALLEN

Owner of Allen Insurance in Pueblo. She specializes in life, health, annuities and Medicare

RON PHILLIPS

Owner of Century Investments in Pueblo. He is a Financial Advisor, author and teacher

most cases, your coverage starts the first day of your birthday month. However, if your birthday is on the first day of the month, your coverage will start the first day of the prior month. If you enroll in Part A (that you have to pay for) and/or Part B the month you turn 65 or during the last 3 months of your Initial Enrollment Period, the start date for your Part B coverage will be delayed.

2098255

719-247-6580 SUBMISSIONS: Senior Beacon welcomes reader contributions in the form of senior groups news, stories, poetry, recipes and happenings. Letters to the Editor must be typed and double spaced, signed with address and phone number submitted. Deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Copyright 2020-Evergrowth Media, LLC

NOTE ANY CORRECTIONS OR MODIFICATIONS. __________________________________________ AD NUMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2098255

Page 26 - Senior Beacon - February 2020

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A HOLIDAY Big-City Life Part of Norwegian Encore Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

My first mission on the 3,998-passenger Norwegian Encore, now cruising weekly into the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Miami, was to secure a seat to “Kinky Boots,” the Tony-award winning musical that is a mustsee on this new ship. But a woman at the box office on Deck 7 said that all tickets to the show already had been reserved. “I just came aboard,” I said. “You can reserve up to six months ahead,” she said. “Seats will be available tonight. Don’t worry.” Theater reservations (all seats are unassigned) must be claimed 10 minutes before the performance begins. “The show is free,” she said, “so lots of people just don’t show up, or they are running late. For the 10 o’clock show, you will want to be in the stand-by line by 9:40 pm.” Which I was, joining about 100 other happy passengers in a last-minute rush to more than DAVID G. MOLYNEAUX

Writes travel pieces and is the editor of TheTravelMavens.com

ALL ABOARD. Norwegian Encore at anchor off Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, where passengers spend a beach day. Top middle is a passenger on the private island’s new zipline. ■ Photo by DAVID G. MOLYNEAUX

100 empty seats. The outstanding show is about a drag queen named Lola and an English shoe factory saved by its transformation into a maker of non-conventional footwear. Before you go, you might want to slip into some long, sparkling boots. Red is best. My wife and I cruise often, but it had been a year since we sailed on a big, big ship, and getting acclimated during

our recent voyage on Norwegian Encore took some patience, and a few calming beverages. Vacationing in a big city buzz Life in big cities and on big ships can be busy, frenetic, and noisy, but that’s expected by people who choose to reside and/or vacation in such stylish with-it worlds. Passengers book a cruise on ships such as Norwegian Encore because there’s exciting stuff to do, sophisticated dining choices, high quality entertainment, and charges of energy that accompany bunches of people moving about, laughing, having some drinks, hurrying to dinner —

or standing in line hoping to get into a sold out show. Sounds a lot like New York or Las Vegas, which is what Norwegian has in mind when designing its new cruise ships. In its fourth and final vessel in the Breakaway-Plus class of behemoths, Norwegian has produced a fine Encore. Size seldom is a negative issue, and you won’t get bored with a few same-old, same-old restaurants; there are more 20 places to dine. With an expansive fleet of big ships now finishing a decade of voyages out of South Florida, cruise companies have learned how to move masses of people, especially getting on and off the ships. Most of the organizational “paperwork” now is accomplished by cell phone apps and Internet; even at the busiest moments on the pier, lines usually move relatively quickly. If you are new to big ships, however, you will discover that the old cruise style of laid-back lethargy — sauntering aboard, then figuring out within a day or two whether you want to do anything beyond life in a deck chair — mostly has passed. (If that’s what you want, choose a smaller ship.)

Minnequa Medicenter... Transitional Care Unit offering: private rooms, flat

screen TV, telephone, private dining Whether your need is for short-term, skilled, respite or long-term care, we provide: • Compassionate 24-hour nursing care • Daily in-house physical, occupational & speech therapies • Daily life-enhancing programs • Intergenerational activities with our on-site children’s Day Care • Monthly community events • Hospice/Palliative care • Free medical transportation • One block W. of Lake on Elko & California • On-Site Child Day Care • Resident Pet Program Medicare/Medicaid, Managed Care and VA contracted.

719-561-1300

2701 California St - Pueblo, Co

VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

February 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 27

ARTS

Western Themes Join Arts Center 2020 AS WE HEAD into 2020 (can you believe it?), we are western themed at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center and Buell Children’s Museum. In the galleries, come enjoy the Goodnight Invitational Art Show through March 8. From February 8 through May 10 our signature Representing the West: A New Frontier exhibit is showing. We’ll hold an Opening Reception on February 7 from 5 -7pm with free admission as it is also a First Friday Art Walk. On February 10 we present our Lucille Christmas Sweetheart Tea at 2PM. Cost is $8 for a formal tea and docent led tour of the galleries. Call 719-295-7200 for reservation. Goodnight Barn Invitational Art Show | Jan 18 – Mar 8 This invitational benefits the Charles Goodnight barn restoration with western-themed works such as Cowboys, Indians, Landscape, Wildlife, Equine, Rodeo, Livestock, Ranch Life, and Americana. A portion of all proceeds benefits the preservation of the Historic Goodnight Barn. Representing the West: A New Frontier | Feb 8 – May 10 This exhibit considers the changing cultures and myths of the American West. A juried exhibition open to artists from across the nation, this show welcomes non-traditional subject matter, materials and concepts as well as traditional depictions of the West. The Sangre de Cristo Arts center awards $5,000 in prize money and the People's Choice Award winner receives a solo exhibition the following year. Be sure to vote for your favorite piece! Other exhibits in the galleries: Spirit of Tradition: Images of Our Lady | Through May 3 Color in Color: Celebrating the Vibrancy of Minority Women | Jan 18 – Apr 26 Perennial Favorites from the Francis King Collection of Western Art | Jan 25 – May 3 Selections From the Regional and Contemporary Collection | Feb 8 - May 10 Gray & Gray: 75 Years of WorkBOB CAMPBELL

Marketing and events manager with the Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center

(Center Stage Series) Feb 29, 1:00pm: Judy Moody and Stink (Children’s Playhouse Series)

White Galleries and is $10 for adults, $8 for children, seniors 65+ and military. Arts Center members are always free. Visit online at www.sdcarts.org. times a month. The four Volunteers were recently honored for their dedicated service by the County Commissioners who had many words of praise for the volunteers. I have had the pleasure of working with these volunteer for many years. They depict the essence of a true volunteer. They give of their time unselfishly and they truly care for those in need of the food boxes. We all salute these four wonderful volunteers who together have over 100 years of service between them. Thank you, Mary, Catherine, Nick and Tony, for all you have given to the Commodity program and to the people of Pueblo.

The Sangre de Cristo Arts Center galleries are open Wed through Sat 11 AM - 4 PM, Sunday 12–4PM, 210 N Santa Fe, Pueblo. The Buell Children’s Museum is open Tues through Sat 11 AM - 4 PM, Sunday 12–4PM. Admission grants entry to both the Children’s Museum and Helen T.

If you have been thinking of volunteering and giving back to the community, the Commodity Program is a great place to volunteer. The hours are flexible, and the staff and volunteers are great to work with. Call me at my RSVP/SRDA office at 719545-8900 to get started.

RANCH LIFE. Invitational art show is to benefit the Charles Goodnight barn restoration.

ing in Dirt | Mar 21 – May 3 In the Buell Children’s Museum: Happy Trails: How the West was Fun | Through June 6 Hitch up the wagons, strap on your spurs, and join Sparky the Art Dog in a classic cowboy cattle drive to the Old West! Performances: Feb 3, 7:30pm: Piano Battle

Peace of mind starts here. All you ne e d i s a s ki n exam . C a l l 7 19 - 35 5 - 15 8 5 to s c he du l e your s k in c anc e r s c re e ni ng exam. Board certiﬁed dermatologists and plastic surgeons taking care of you like family.

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Vanguard SKIN SPECIALISTS

Page 28 - Senior Beacon - February 2020 NEWS