SENIOR BEACON NEWSPAPER | JULY 2020

Senior Beacon SB Eldest & Locally-Owned Senior Newspaper in Southern Colorado

JULY 2020

Vol. 39:6

Established February 1982

462 Consecutive Months!

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

Half of Retirees Pay Social Security Taxes HALF OF RETIREES participating in a new survey by The Senior Citizens League (TSCL) say they paid income taxes on a portion of their Social Security benefit income for the 2019 tax year.

“There was no change from previous years in the 50 percent of retiree households who report that they pay tax on a portion of their benefits, despite the 2017 tax reform law, says Mary Johnson, a Social Security and Medicare policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League.

The revenues from taxation of benefits are earmarked for funding Social Security and Medicare benefits.

“Those revenues take on new importance in 2020, as the coronavirus takes a significant toll on Social Security and Medicare payroll tax

revenues with more than 40 million people out of work,” Johnson says.

The number of older taxpayers who find that a portion of their Social Security benefits are taxable tends to grow over time. Unlike income brackets that are adjusted for inflation, the income thresholds that subject Social Security benefits to taxation have never been adjusted since Social Security benefits became taxable in 1984. When the law was first passed, less than 10 percent of all Social Security recipients were estimated to have incomes high enough to be affected by the tax on benefits. But today, even retirees with modest incomes can be affected by the tax.

Up to 85 percent of Social Security benefits can be subject to taxation if an individual has a combined

income of $25,000 and married couples filing jointly have a combined income of $32,000. Had income thresholds been adjusted for inflation, they would be about $62,902 for individuals and $80,515 for joint filers in 2020. “Combined income” is determined by adding one’s adjusted gross income, plus any tax - free interest income, and one - half of Social Security benefits.

According to the 2020 Social Security Trustees report, which does not include estimates of the impact of the coronavirus, Social Security is expected to receive about $853.3 billion in payroll tax revenues this year. “That estimate is higher than it actually will be, since it was based on just a 5 percent unemployment rate,” Johnson notes. “Currently the unemployment numbers are roughly four times higher than that,” she points out. In addition, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), allows employers to defer the employer portion of payroll taxes in 2020 for up to two years.

The Social Security Trustees

6

further estimate that $38.9 billion in revenues in 2020 would come from the taxation of Social Security benefits. “Yet those revenues are also likely to be lower, impacted by both large numbers of older Americans who lost income from jobs, as well as from lower distributions from retirement accounts that have lost value from last year,” Johnson notes. Under the CARES Act, retirees are allowed to completely waive required minimum distributions for 2020 from retirement accounts.

At the same time, new claims for Social Security benefits are growing, as many older workers who have lost jobs file for Social Security benefits earlier than planned. The combined impact increases pressure on Social Security to address solvency issues. A future solvency option supported by more than 72 percent of The Senior Citizens League’s survey participants is to apply the Social Security payroll tax to all earnings, instead of just the first $137,700 in wages. The survey was conducted from mid - January through April of this year.

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Page 2 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

JUST ANOTHER DAY AT THE RACES

OBSERVATIONS FROM THE CAVE JAMES R. GRASSO Former Chief Cook & Bottle Washer

LAST YEAR AND then recently I revealed that I have breathed air in 9 different decades. Any bets I can make it to ten?

Everyone seems to be apoplectic about this damnable virus named COVID-19 and rightly so. I wish the Huwan China Flu (or just the Chinese Flu) would have stuck because that's where it started.

Why has that changed? We've always called them as we saw them and the Spanish had a flu, the Asians had a flu, Ebola had a flu, even the swine and the birds had a flu. I "tells ya," it's a puzzlement to me.

I'm not making light of the name but COVID-19 seems so ominous, which it is and continues to be.

But do you remember COVID 1 through 18? Did we have them in the past? If not, will they be worse than COVID-19 like 4, 3, 2, 1......? Is it another attempt by our media to keep us on edge constantly? How do these scientists know how long it will be until we get a vaccine? If it will be a year, 15 months, 6 months. why can't it be next month? My entire life the news media and everyone else for that matter in the "business" keep trying to scare us to death?

"Keep them always in fear," that's their motto. Now all the deaths that have affected so many families is nothing to joke about. Prayers are said daily for the folks who have died and their families. The majority

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of whom are older folks like our readership. I just wish that these so-called journalists would do some digging and break a story as to when we'll have a vaccine and after finding that out, why will it take that long and how do they know? And finally, why America?, the place that has the best medical facilities in the world, is being the hardest hit.

I love sports and really want to see them but not sure if it's wise to start them up because you know there will be a certain amount of the participants who test positive. Won't that wipe out the majority of teams for at least two weeks because if you are playing a team sport you have contact, especially in contact sports. If so, then everyone you've been around closely would have to sit for 14 days and on and on. It's something to ponder.

I was asked recently by a few different people if I ever heard of George Soros? I was also asked if I ever heard of Black Lives Matter? How about ANTIFA? Finally how about OFA (Organization for Action)? Also, if I ever saw the Hodge Brothers on the internet? As JFK used to say, "let me say this about that." I suggest you get on your computers and hit the internet and do some research. It is an eye-opening experience in my view.

On June 27, 2020 (the day I'm writing this) and forward we all must be vigilant. We must all look inward and upward and turn to the Almighty.

We should seek the counsel of our pastors, reverends, priests, and etc (men and women of God, that is) to help us understand what God wants.

Simply, we must meet the world head on and find out how to decipher the inner workings of our world and evils that abound and have been around since the beginning of time. Modernity is just wrapped differently. But you all know this. You all have had the benefit of wisdom. Just making it to the elderly phase of your life is a gift from above. One that allows us to make amends for the missteps that were taken. We all know these things.

We should do our best to express this knowledge to the youngsters in our sphere. You all know when you are being used as a dupe. You can tell when someone doesn't know what he/she is talking about. Turn to God with all your might. He is the only constant.

Godspeed to you and yours.

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 3

FINANCE

Staring At Our Fears LET'S LOOK THIS elephant

in the eyes: The economy will likely shrink this year.

The current quarter looks to be the worst.

According to one economist, it could drop over 40 percent from April to June. Very shocking but we have to be prepared.

Then the next quarter it could be back up over 20 percent. And up again to finish the year.

To put that in context: this quarter is horrendous but “only” drops the whole year by six to seven percent (NOT by forty percent).

That would still shave off over $1 trillion from our economy.

Whew—that’s depressing! But… “YOU DON’T MAKE A PLUGGED NICKEL” BETTING AGAINST THE U.S. This line-of-thought really takes me back to the Financial Crisis. It was bad then and it’s bad now but we always come back, don’t we?

And our country tends to be the safe haven.

In future articles I’ll explore the U.S dollar, the overseas situation and get to one major conclusion.

If it’s bad here it’s even worse overseas.

POLITICAL RISK EVERYWHERE In the last few years there weren’t a lot of gains to be made overseas except for some special situations and strategies.

But you could count on lots of juicy dividends. I personally invested in and recommended a European insurer/money manager.

The stock is dirt-cheap, selling for low earnings, under book value and paying over eight percent annual dividends!

Then wham!

The Euro-area says no more dividends from financial companies until at least September.

We’ve just experienced political risk from a stable, developed area.

Not good.

This must be how French bank investors felt during the 1980s when banks were taken over.

This kind of risk is usually seen in emerging areas and this is not healthy for investment.

So what does money do? Flies to stability. Where’s relative stability?

In the good ole US of A. I’m really not banging the patriotic drum here, it’s just the reality of the markets. As usual, it’s a popRONALD S. PHILLIPS

Pueblo native and an independent financial advior

Anything can happen. Hey, maybe the domestic markets keep trucking. Yet they do seem richly valued. They’re nowhere near the excesses of the dot-com or real estate bubbles, though. I’d say slightly higher than is healthy and also out of whack due to the times. ularity contest and we’re the belle of the ball.

U.S MARKET IS RISING BUT OVERVALUED Anything can happen. Hey, maybe the domestic markets keep trucking.

Yet they do seem richly valued.

They’re nowhere near the excesses of the dot-com or real estate bubbles, though. I’d say slightly higher than is healthy and also out of whack due to the times.

The economy and corporate earnings WILL get back to records and the market will deserve to be priced high.

For now, it might be more prudent to hold some cash, sell gains (but keep positions if you have them) and even buy monthly if you’re regularly doing that anyway.

If we do have a pull-back you’ll be happy to have some extra cash to buy at better pricing.

The Fed is buying corporate bonds and foreign money has already followed.

Maybe that’s the next area to investigate? Happy hunting.

Written on 06-29-2020 Ronald S. Phillips is a Pueblo native and an independent financial advisor.

Order a free copy of his book Investing To Win by leaving a message at (719) 220-3005. Visit RetireIQ.com or email RonPhillipsAdvisor@gmail.com

Page 4 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

July 1: Sweet and sour meatballs, broccoli, jasmine rice, tossed salad with dressing, pear, milk July 2: Broccoli stuffed chicken breast, green beans, sweet potatoes, pineapple tidbits, high fiber cookie, milk July 3: Holiday. Sandy’s Chicken Chile, tortilla, broccoli with cheese, carrot raisin salad, diced pears, milk July 4: Chicken carbonara, broccoli, green bean salad, spiced peaches, oatmeal raisin cookie, milk July 5: Beef tips, penne pasta, brussel sprouts, 3 bean salad, applesauce, milk July 6: South Western Chicken, peas and carrots, 3 bean salad, ww roll, orange, milk July 7: Pulled pork sandwich, corn, seasoned pinto beans, applesauce, milk July 8: Egg salad on ww bread, tomato basil soup, tossed salad with red wine vinaigrette, orange, milk July 9: Swiss steak, mashed potatoes, peas, coleslaw, banana, milk July 10: Baked parmesan crusted salmon, roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, roll, strawberries, milk July 11: Manicotti, cauliflower, sunflower broccoli salad, peaches, raisin nut cup, milk July 12 Roast turkey with gravy, mashed potatoes, California vegetables, ww bread, apple, milk July 13: Chicken taco salad with sour cream, salsa and avocado, corn chowder, orange, milk July 14: Swedish meatballs with noodles, peas and carrots, tossed salad with dressed, orange, milk July 15: Beef stir fry, peas, brown rice, Asian cabbage salad, apple, milk July 16: Chicken parmesan pasta, cauliflower, tossed salad with dressed, diced pears, ww roll, milk July 17: Breaded fish sandwich with lettuce and tomato, corn, coleslaw, spiced peaches, milk

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July 18: Broccoli stuffed chicken breast, green beans, sweet potatoes, pineapple tidbits, high fiber cookie, milk July 19: Sweet and sour meatballs, broccoli, jasmine rice, tossed salad with dressing, pear, milk July 20: Goulash, green beans, salad with dressing, ww bread, apple, milk July 21: Chicken piccata pasta, winter blend vegetables, peaches, high fiber cookie, milk July 22: Beef stew, lima beans, ww roll, pineapple orange compote, milk July 23: Chicken alfredo penne pasta, caeser salad, peas, strawberries, milk July 24: Seasoned cod, potato medley, maple glazed carrots, banana, roll, milk July 25: Pulled pork sandwich, corn, seasoned pinto beans, applesauce, milk July 26: Chicken parmesan pasta, cauliflower, tossed salad with dressing, diced pears, ww roll, milk July 27: Beef fajita with peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream and salsa, tortillas, spanich rice, sw black beans, strawberries, milk July 28: Chicken marsala, roasted red potatoes, brussels sprouts, green beans salad, apple, milk July 29: Beef pot pie with buttermilk biscuit, lime beans, salad with red wine vinaigrette, apple, milk July 30: Riblettes, baked beans, potato salad, applesauce, milk July 31: Vegie burger with lettuce, tomato and onion, corn, coleslaw, banana, milk

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The Social Security Administration announced the first of several steps the agency is taking to improve the public’s experience on its website. The newly redesigned retirement benefits portal, at www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/retirement, will help millions of people prepare for and apply for retirement.

The redesigned portal will make it easier for people to find and read about Social Security retirement benefits, with fewer pages and condensed, rewritten, and clearer information. The portal also is optimized for mobile devices so people can learn and do what they want from wherever they want, and the portal now includes the ability to subscribe to receive retirement information and updates.

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 5

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

Recreation Department is currently CLOSED due to Covid - 19.

All information provided depends on when SRDA reopens, which includes Matter of Balance. Also, all outside activity start up, like AARP -Taxes and Driver Safety classes will be determined by their national office.

Senior's Shopping Time Scheduled

EDITOR'S NOTE: The following article is rerunning because of the COVID-19 relief efforts.

MANY STORES IN the area are offering a separate time for senior only shopping to assist in keeping one of the most vulnerable populations protected from the spread of COVID-19.

At this time, information for senior only shopping is as follows: Albertson’s Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 – 9 AM Dollar General, 1245 Spruce Every day, 8 – 9 AM Dollar General, W. 18th Street Sundays, 8 – 9 AM Dollar General, 1502 Troy Every day, 8 –9 AM Dollar General, 609 Pueblo Boulevard Thursdays, 12 – 1 PM; All other days, 8 –9 AM Dollar General, 1610 Santa Fe Every day, 8 – 9 AM

Are you new to the Pueblo area?

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Call us: 719-545-8900 Dollar General, 2417 Prairie Every day, 8 –9 AM King Soopers North and South Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 7 – 9 AM LaGrees Every day, 8 – 10 AM Natural Grocers Sundays, 9 – 10 AM Safeway Southside and Pueblo West Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 – 9 AM

Everybody has a responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in Pueblo Sam’s Club Thursdays, 7 – 9 AM Save-A-Lot Every day, 7 – 8 AM Target Every day, 8 – 9 AM Walmart; South, North, Pueblo West, Neighborhood Market Every day 6 -7 AM All public and media inquiries in Pueblo are answered through the local hotline at Pueblo’s Joint Information Center. Pueblo COVID-19 Hotline is answering questions 8 AM – 5 PM, Monday – Friday, 719-583-4444.

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being physically close to other people.

■ Do not go to the emergency room unless medically necessary.

■ Wash your hands with soap regularly.

■ Cough or sneeze into elbow or tissue.

■ Stay home when you’re sick.

■ Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

Avoid close contact with sick people.

■ Clean surfaces frequently touched.

Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment encourages residents to seek out credible, reliable sources of information on COVID-19: www.puebloemergency.info Pueblo’s COVID-19 Hotline 719-583-4444.

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Page 6 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

‘LIGHT FOR THE JOURNEY’

JAN MCLAUGHLIN

today with only what you thanked God for yesterday?”

After a lengthy pause to have the question sink in, I continue.

“I know your bed isn’t a Serta Perfect Sleeper, but did you thank the Lord for a bed to sleep in? Did you thank Him yesterday for water to drink or for a new day or that you woke up from sleep? Did you thank Him for sleep? Or legs to walk on? Did you thank Him for the air you breathe?”

And this one always brings raised eyebrows.

“Look around. Did you thank Him for clothes?

What if you didn’t?”

Laughter erupts.

What about you?

Before this pandemic and lockdown, did you thank the Lord for the privilege of visiting family members and friends or shopping freely without a mask?

How many Sundays have we gone to church and not bothered or even considered thanking God for that privilege?

Other things we have taken for granted - water, air, fruit and the weirdest of all things taken for granted . . . toilet paper!

A brilliant Wisdom Clips post tugged at my heartstrings. A hunter became lost and wondered for three

Director of Prayer for Prisoners International

THE TENTH APPLE EFFECT?

S

peaking to a chapel packed with men in green uniforms, I pose a question.

“What if you woke up

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days without food.

Depressed and discouraged, he lost all hope and was afraid he would die of starvation when an apple tree caught his eye.

He ran to the tree, plucked an apple and bit into it.

The taste was delightful, and the juice quenched his thirst.

He was so grateful to God for the food. Joy and praise flooded his heart and spilled out his mouth. He could not stop thanking God. He ate another apple and then another. With each apple he became less grateful.

When he was eating his fifth apple it was not good at all.

By the tenth apple he became angry and started throwing the apples and complaining to God. He had taken for granted the gift of finding an apple tree in the middle of the forest.

If the 10th apple gives less pleasure than the first apple, there is nothing wrong with the apple but with the person eating the fruit.

It’s called the 10th apple effect or taking things for granted.

America and most of the world have been living in the 10th apple effect for many years. Taking too much for granted. Complaining about the traffic, job, people, government, food and more.

This lockdown is an awakening to things taken for granted.

A story of a 73-year-old man in Italy who became ill with Coronavirus puts this into perspective.

He was put in the hospital and on a ventilator.

When the doctor told him he would have to pay 5,000 euro for daily for the use of the ventilator, he began to cry.

The doctor told him they would work it out and not to cry.

He said, “I am not crying about the money. I have money to pay. I am crying because for 73 years I have breathed God’s air and not once thanked Him for air. Now it costs 5,000 euro to use a ventilator for one day. Do you realize how much I owe God?” We should make a list of things we failed to thank God for in the past, things we took for granted.

Perhaps we should daily live in the first apple effect, praising God for all He gives from the least to the most.

You know!

Like our family, church, home, clothes and toilet paper.

Rethink the question. “What if you woke up today with only what you thanked God for yesterday?”

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:15 NIV).

“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). © 2020 Jan McLaughlin, all rights reserved. Jan McLaughlin is Director of Prayer For Prisoners International and can be reached by e-mail – Jan@PrayerForPrisoners.org. or by phone 719-275-6971

c

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 7

ANCIENT FAERIE LORE: FAERIE HERBS AND POTIONS

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

Changelings.

The very name evokes primitive fears and unknown issues in the realm of the faerie.

When you scratch the surface, most humans share the same common ancient fears‌ the loss of a loved one, especially a child.

The idea of the changelings stealing a child away, possibly forever, and thereafter leave a horribly altered substitute in its place is one of the most sinister traditions in Irish folklore.

Why would a faerie steal a human child? Many believed that faerie babies were ugly, and troublesome, unlike the human offspring who were docile and beautiful. Faeries love music and beauty, but not only babies were at risk, but also handsome young men and women.

Therefore in Ireland it's common to exchange an elderly dying faerie for a baby. Many believed that faeries need mortal food to survive.

Possibly the most sinis-

ter purpose for stealing a human child originates from ancient Scottish traditions. Scots believed that faeries had dealt with the devil, and every seven years they owed a contribution, a favor, a tax. Although legend has it that the devil demanded a blood sacrifice, which appalled the faerie population. The refused to kill one of their own. This is where the abductions enter the scenario. Cross breeding was another motive for snatching. Blood lines were eventually in distress by being drained, and the solution was the kidnapping of a human, which allowed injection of fresh blood into their clan's people.

Whatever the reasons for this bizarre behavior, parents barely determined the change in their child. Their bonny baby suddenly became ill and failed to thrive as before. Extraordinary appetites revealed the presence of a

changeling. Sickly and pale, these substitutes could cry constantly.

They would misbehave, and possibly be unable to talk.

As if all this isn't unnerving enough, another belief is that faeries may enchant a block of wood, or a lump of wax instead. Carved in the child's image the enchantment soon wears off, and the 'child' would die revealing its real appearance. Throwing a log on the fire was thought to immediately restore the child to its original appearance.

Even in this day and age, many in Europe, and Great Britain, Scandinavians and Germans included, believe that baptizing the baby as soon as possible would prevent a faerie kidnapping. Enemies of the faeries such as tongs or scissors would be placed near the crib in days of old. The Irish were harshly cautioned not to 'overlook' the baby.

Page 8 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

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NEWS OF THE WEIRD

SPECIAL TO THE SENIOR BEACON FROM THE EDITORS OF ANDREWS MCMEEL Complaint Department Car buyer Da Tong Yang of Richmond, British Columbia, became so frustrated with his local Mercedes-Benz dealership that in January he flew to the company's

headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, to seek help. Yang bought his wife, Guifang Huo, a brand-new S550 in 2017, partially because he believed the $155,000 car to be one of the safest vehicles available, but

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a year later, the couple claimed, the steering wheel locked, causing the car to nearly crash into a concrete wall. Mercedes-Benz said an "internal electrical issue" was at fault and assured the couple it was fixed.

Yang wasn't convinced, demanded his money back or a replacement car, then sued the company when it declined. The case has languished in court, prompting Yang's trip to Stuttgart in early June "to find justice, not only for him but also for other drivers," he told the Richmond News. Despite his personal appearance, litigation is still underway. [Richmond News, 6/8/2020] No Good Deed Goes Unpunished An unnamed 66-year-old woman in Ewing, New Jersey, gave $1 to a man begging in a drugstore parking lot on June 18 and became the victim of a carjacking, according to the Associated Press. Ewing police said Tomasz Dymek, 31, of Queens, New York, "was not satisfied with the dollar, so he forced his way into the victim's vehicle and drove from the lot, sitting on top of her in the driver's seat." Witnesses alerted police, who followed Dymek into Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, where

the car broke down and officers arrested him. [Associated Press, 6/19/2020] Bright Idea Bradley Bell, head writer for "The Bold and the Beautiful," told the New York Post the show is experimenting with using blowup dolls in love scenes as the daytime soap, in hiatus since March, resumed taping on June 17. Challenged to adhere to COVID-19 protocols, Bell said, "We put our heads together trying to figure out a way to make these scenes work without breaking the 8-foot (distancing) rule ... and we brought out a doll we used years ago as a corpse." The result, he said, "was very convincing ... We'll be using her with hair and makeup as a stand-in to match some of our leading ladies." The show has also recruited some of the actors' spouses as body doubles. "We've had stunt doubles before," Bell said, "but this is the first time we've had kissing doubles." [New York Post, 6/17/2020]

Least Competent, Most Ambitious Criminals 719-547-5100 -- Donnovan Russell Jester, 28, of www.pueblowestfuneralhome.com Largo, Florida, was arrested on June 18 for grand theft of a vessel -- a $900,000, 46-foot-long yacht. The Tampa Bay Times reported the theft took place March 20 at Thunder Marine, where Pinellas County deputies said the 2019 Jeanneau Leader was stolen and driven into four channel-marker pilings, doing about Oakshire Commons PuebloWest Gardens Oakshire Commons North Point Gardens $60,000 worth of damage, before being abandoned to drift in an oyster bed. Investigators found Jester's thumbprint on a cabin door; he was held at the Pinellas NORTH POINTE GAR DENS OAKSHIRE COMMONS PUEBLO WEST GARDENS County jail on $50,000. [Tampa Bay Times, 6/23/2020] 381 S. Joe Martinez Blvd. Pueblo, CO 81007

960 E SAXONY DR-P.W.

-- At 1:28 a.m. on June 20, airport air traffic control in New Smyrna Beach,

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 9

NEWS OF THE WEIRD

SPECIAL TO THE SENIOR BEACON FROM THE EDITORS OF ANDREWS MCMEEL Florida, contacted police about a distress call coming from an aircraft. Officers already at the airport trying to locate a car they believed had been stolen from Daytona Beach found Robert Stienstra, 22, of DeBary, Florida, sitting in the airplane on the airport apron, according to an arrest report. Stienstra asked an officer whether he knew how to fly a plane, the report stated, then explained that he had recently purchased the aircraft (valued at $1 million) for $20,000 and needed to fly to California to take marijuana and meet his girlfriend.

The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported that along with a bag of weed, Stienstra had in his possession a glass pipe with remnants of methamphetamine and other drug paraphernalia. New Smyrna Beach

police charged Stienstra with grand theft over $100,000; he was also wanted by Daytona Beach police on charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle. [Daytona Beach News-Journal, 6/22/2020] News That Sounds Like a Joke After falling asleep following a 10-bottle beer-drinking binge, and failing to heed nature's call for 18 hours, a 40-year-old Chinese man identified as Mr. Hu was diagnosed with a burst bladder, the New York Post reported on June 23. The man appeared at Zhuji People's Hospital in Zhejiang, China, complaining of searing abdominal pain, and doctors discovered three tears in his bladder, one of which had caused his intestines to spill into the bladder. Mr. Hu underwent emergency

SRDA MONTHLY MENU ABOUT THE MENU ● Nutrition Services (Congregate) Eligibility Policy: Individuals are eligible to participate in the congregate meals service in one of the categories listed in this below: Persons 60 years of age or older and their self-declared spouses of any age; Disabled persons under 60 years of age who reside with persons over 60 years of age, when the care and maintenance of the disabled person otherwise prevents the older adult from participating in the program and when the participation of such individuals does not prevent the participation of older adults and their spouses. The disabled person must accompany the eligible older consumer to the site; Disabled persons under 60 years of age who reside in housing facilities occupied primarily by older adults and at which congregate nutrition services are provided when such participation does not prevent the participation of older adults and their spouse Persons under 60 years of age who provide meal related volunteer services and individuals providing volunteer services at congregate meal sites during meal hours when the participation of such individuals does not prevent the participation of older adults and their spouses; and Staff members of the nutrition program who are 60 years of age or older

surgery and was able to recover.

Zhuji officials said while bladder rupture is rare, they see at least one such patient every year. [New York Post, 6/23/2020] The Litigious Society The Tampa Bay Times reports that Kris Hedstrom of Odessa, Florida, filed suit against her neighbor, Heather Dayner, in late May, demanding a paternity test for the five goats she purchased from Dayner or a full refund. Hedstrom bought the five Nigerian Dwarf goats -- Bella, Gigi, Rosie, Zelda and Margoat -- in December, paying $900, and expected to register them with the American Dairy Goat Association, according to the lawsuit. Registered goats have higher value than nonregistered goats. But the ADGA de-

NOTE: Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), meal sites are closed. Meals-on-Wheels is still open

when such participation does not prevent the participation of other older adults and their spouses.

Nutrition Services (Home Delivered) Eligibility

homebound or who are geographically isolated; Disabled persons under age 60 years who reside with eligible consumers; and Spouses of home delivered meals con-

Respite Care Program

“Pueblo’s Premier Assisted Living Community” Respite care is temporary, short-term care lasting one day or longer.

It gives your loved one the opportunity to socialize with others in a small, cozy setting. This gives YOU, the caregiver, time to yourself.

Respite care can be used when: • You are going to be out of town on business • Planning a vacation • Allows you, the caregiver, time to participate in your hobbies and interests.

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www.belmontseniorcare.com Become a fan of Facebook BSC is a local, private, non-profit corporation not affiliated with Belmont Lodge nursing home

sumers if, according to Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) criteria, receipt of the meals are in the best interest of the consumers.

More Information For more information, please contact

BELMONT SENIOR CARE... IS THIS SRDA MENU

Ironic Researchers at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, have made an unexpected discovery in their study of the endangered night parrot, one of only two nocturnal parrot species in the world: It has poor night vision. The night parrot lives in Australia's outback and differs from the other nocturnal parrot, New Zealand's kakapo, which has lost its ability to fly, ABC reported.

Call SRDA at 545-8900 for congregate meal sites and Meals-on-Wheels info!

Belmont Senior Care

Policy: Individuals are eligible to participate in the Home Delivered meals service in one of the categories listed in this below: Persons age 60 years or older who are

nied Hedstrom's application because Dayner is not a member of the organization, and Dayner now accuses Hedstrom of trespassing on her farm and harassing her with calls to the police. "She's been a nightmare of a neighbor," Dayner said. Dayner plans to represent herself in court in July. [Tampa Bay Times, 6/23/2020]

us at 719-543-0100.

CONGREGATE LUNCH SITES Avondale Community Center 719-947-4180 409 2nd Lane Avondale, CO Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Beulah Center 719-485-3100 5903 Penn Avenue Beulah, CO Tuesday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Colorado City Community Center 719-676-3059 5445 Cuerno Verde Colorado City, CO Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

JH Edwards Senior Center (SRDA) 230 N Union Avenue Pueblo, CO Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fulton Heights Center 1331 Santa Rosa Pueblo, CO Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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Page 10 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

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OPINION-EDITORIAL

ANN COULTER

Columnist, author and lawyer

GREAT MOMENTS IN RACISM: THE DASHCAM TAPES IF YOU WERE watching

MSNBC last Sunday, you may have seen Imani Perry, professor of African-American studies at Princeton Universi-

ty, and wondered, as I did, Why do I know that name?

Professor Perry’s delightfully original point was that we need to “think in serious contemplative ways about the depth of American inequality.”

So perhaps we know her from her incisive commentary! I certainly haven’t heard anyone talk about American inequality. It really made me think.

But then I suddenly realized it’s that Imani Perry! The one who nearly destroyed a policeman’s life by falsely accusing him of racism!

Back in February 2016, Perry launched a series of tweets, alleging the following: -- She was “arrested in Princeton Township for a single parking ticket three years ago."

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-- She was cuffed -- FOR A PARKING TICKET -- and not allowed to make a phone call “so that someone would know where I was.”

-- “I was afraid,” she wrote.

“Many women who look like me have a much more frightening end to such arrests.”

Oh my gosh, she could have been killed!

-- She was “working to move from being shaken to renewing my commitment to the struggle against racism & carcerality.”

Naturally, her story became instant international news. The president of Princeton leapt to her defense, firing off a letter to the chief of police, demanding an investigation. (I know Perry is a professor, but you’d think that, by now, more people would say, Let’s wait for the facts.)

Perry attributed the universal acceptance of her story to her “small build” and her association with “elite universities” such as Princeton.

Just a thought, but it might also be because she’s black.

The Princeton police spent several days investigating before finally releasing the dashcam footage. I’m hoping they dragged it out to allow public outrage to reach maximum velocity.

Perry wasn’t arrested “for a single parking ticket three years ago.”

After being stopped for going 67 mph in a 45 mph speed zone, officers ran her name and discovered her license had been suspended.

She was arrested for driving with a suspended license.

The officer was almost comically polite to the professor. He gently explained to Perry that because of her suspended license, "What you're going to have to do is come

with us, it's $130, so if you have that money we'll be able to post and we'll be able to get you right back out.” He offered to drop her at the university, saying, “You really shouldn't be driving because of your suspended license.”

He informed her that police are required to cuff anyone being transported to the station and assured her that no one would have to know. As for not being allowed to make a phone call, he clearly told her that once they got to the station, “You can make as many phone calls and texts as you want.”

A policeman was kind to her, so Perry turned around and accused him of racism, secure in the knowledge that no one would dare challenge whatever she said.

It would have been firing offense for him, but not for her. She is still gainfully employed as a Princeton professor -- and a sought-after guest on MSNBC and NPR! (It must be because of her “small build.”)

There are dozens of these cases.

Tweet me your favorites!

Here’s another, from one of our blessed immigrants, Minati Roychoudhuri, professor at Capital Community College in Connecticut. (Really! That’s not one of my proposed new names for Yale, currently named for a slave trader.)

In 2015, Roychoudhuri (B.A., M.A., Utkal University, India) wrote a letter to the commissioner of public safety, as well as “the Senator and Legislator of my constituency” (she teaches English), claiming a policeman had racially profiled her.

Her letter said: "The officer did not give me any reason as to why had stopped me. His asking if I could speak English shows that he had racially profiled me and was not able to give me a concrete reason for stopping me. Further, the officer had checked ‘Hispanic' in the race category in the infraction ticket."

The professor also noted that, “I teach about diversity and the negative impact of racial profiling, I have now become a target of the same insidious behavior! It is easy to connect the dots with the nationwide racial profiling which has led to serious consequences.”

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 11

SENIOR SERVICE DIRECTORY These are some of the top service providers in your community!

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COUNTRY KITCHEN REOPENS

“We are happy to announce that after temporarily closing on March 18th, we have reopened our doors for dine in and curbside pick-up on June 1st from 5:30 am to 8pm every day. We look forward to serving our guests and enjoy the summer with great food, while maintaining good practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.” said Country Kitchen of Pueblo franchisee owner Ed Cassidy.

At Country Kitchen you will have a great experience. Not only will you find great options to enjoy a meal full of true country flavor, we will make sure you have a good time. Whether you want to just stop in for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch with a Garden Omelet, we’ve got you covered.

In addition to Ed, the entire team at Country Kitchen International is excited to open the doors to guests again. According to Chuck Mocco, CEO of Country Kitchen, “We have incorporated additional precautionary measures to our standard procedures across our restaurants to prevent the spread of COVID-19, besides offering more ways for our guests to enjoy our food at home.”

Country Kitchen International is a leader in full-service family restaurants with locations in over 20 states and Canada. Development opportunities for both concepts are available in free-standing units, conversions, strip malls, and autoplaza locations. Franchise opportunities with Country Kitchen International are available throughout the United States.

Country Kitchen International is headquartered in Madison, WI.

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to provide grab-and-go meals, Monday-Friday County for seniors age The Golden Shuttle/Fremont 60+. Please call 345-3064 each day by 9:30am to let us know you will need a Transit meal. If youProgram are unable tohas pick up your meal, we can arrange for Fremont County Transit to bring you to get your meal or you can designate someone to pick it up for you. There is no shortage on meals so we encourage anyone wanting or needing a meal to please call.

If you have not eaten with us before, you will need to fill out an intake form. We ask for a $3.00 donation.

expanded service to Florence and Penrose which requires more drivers.

Also, Fremont County Transit is open and running. We can get you to your appointments or 275-5177 to the grocery store. Our taking every precaution and sanitizing Call if drivers youareare our vehicles between riders.

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National Security.

June 30th of 2019 President Trump signed “The Legion Act.” Senate Bill S.504 changed the eligibility dates to WWI April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918 and then from December 7, 1941 till the Succession of Hostilities. The Legion Act honored over 1,600 service members who were killed or wounded during periods that did not include the Korean and Vietnam Wars along with Lebanon/Grenada, Panama, and the Gulf War conflicts. The Legion was able to identify during periods of peace, the US military was involved in numerous conflicts/ situations where our military were killed or wounded in hostile conflict.

With the Legion Act many veterans are now eligible. With one day of active duty after Pearl Harbor Day, they are qualified with an Honorable Discharge.

For the American Legion Auxiliary those female (and male) spouses of Legion Members can now join along with those who are mothers, grandmothers, and sisters of those veterans who were or could have been Legion members. Many of the Sons of the American Legion can now join the American Legion who are veterans. Others can now honor their father and grandfather in

membership for those veterans that were or could have joined the Legion if passed. For those who ride motorcycles, the American Legion Riders offers a world of enjoyment in motorcycle ownership. With the doors wide open thanks to Legion Act, those who join the Legion, Auxiliary, and/or Sons can then join the Riders.

Why join? As a member of the Legion Family you can be involved in various events. It takes team work. In Pueblo West you can join in the planning and fun of the Red, White and Blue Golf Tournament which is a joint operation with the Pueblo West Chamber of Commerce and American Legion Post 207.

At American Legion Post 16 in Walsenburg you can help plan and welcome the traveling Vietnam War Wall which is a huge initiative for SOCO. How to join? Call your local American Legion Post. Call the Department of Colorado at (303) 366-5201 or visit them at www.Coloradolegion.org . Call National HQs in Indianapolis, Indian at (317) 630-1230. You can join the American Legion going on-line at www.legion.org. These contacts can answer questions about membership in Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, and American Legion Riders.

Page 12 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 13

FOR A HEALTHIER YOU Lighten Up This Summer–Here’s How MANY PEOPLE LOOK forward to the

mild temperatures and increased daylight of summer, which positively affect their mood and allow new opportunities for enjoyment, especially outdoors.

Those who are looking LISA M. PETSCHE after a frail, ill or disabled Medical social worker senior relative, however, and freelance writer may be so preoccupied that they find it hard to reap the benefits of the season.

If you are a caregiver, read on for a variety of ideas for streamlining necessary tasks in order to ensure some time for leisure this summer.

Ideas for activities to enjoy with your relative are also included. Some are contingent on regional, COVID-19 pandemic-related protocols.

General Tips Establish and stick to priorities, and curb perfectionism. Not everything needs to be done to a high standard.

Set a time limit for chores if necessary.

Be flexible about plans and expectations, taking into account your relative’s energy level and yours at any given time, as well as the weather. Take things one day at a time.

Pay for a grounds keeping service if you can afford it.

If you don’t have central air conditioning, get a window air conditioner or oscillating fan for the room(s) you use most.

Before a heat wave hits, check that any such appliances are in good repair.

Or, if feasible, take your relative out to the local dairy bar for an ice cream cone or sundae.

Shopping and Errands Run errands and schedule appointments early in the day, before temperatures peak.

Shop by mail order whenever possible.

Take advantage of stores and other services that offer home delivery.

Research mobile services in your area, such as hairdressing and foot care for your relative, and dog grooming, especially if transportation is an issue.

Ideas for Activities The following are some ideas for enjoying quality time together.

Have morning coffee or evening tea on the balcony, deck or patio, as applicable.

Cook favorite foods on the grill.

Watch a favorite summer-themed movie.

Have a picnic in your backyard or at a nearby park.

Go for a stroll around the neighborhood, using a wheelchair if necessary.

Take your relative to the local farmers’ market for fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as favorite meat, cheeses and baked goods.

Go to an accessible park or other outdoor public space and people-watch.

Meal Preparation Collect recipes for one-dish meals, such as 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 now and then, as finances permit.

Get a box of favorite ice cream treats the next time you’re at the grocery store.

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Attend some of your children’s or grandchildren’s baseball or soccer games. Just be sure your relative can safely navigate the distance and terrain from parking lot to sports field.

And don’t forget a chair for them that offers good support.

Attend an outdoor concert or summer arts festival.

Go for a drive in the country.

If it’s hard to get out, obtain some CDs featuring summertime sounds of nature and play them in the background while eating meals or reading the newspaper, for example.

Reminisce about summers from your youth, including family customs, special people and places and touching or humorous moments.

Don’t forget to set aside some personal time, for self-care.

Make a habit of doing something you enjoy every day: read, listen to music or spend time in the garden, for example, even if twenty minutes is all you can manage.

Consider this a necessary time to recharge your batteries.

Lisa M. Petsche is a social worker and a freelance writer who has personal experience with elder care.

VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

Page 14 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

FREMONT COUNTY/SALIDA MENUS GAC July 1: Beef and broccoli stir fry, steamed brown rice, pineapple tidbits, ww bread with butter July 2: BBQ pork ribs, creamy coleslaw, corn cob, seasoned greens, watermelon, bran muffin July 3: Closed in observance of Independence Day July 6: Honey BBQ chicken, oven browned potatoes, diced pears, carrifruit salad, ww bread with butter July 7: Kielbasa, parsley buttered new potatoes, mixed vegetables, baked acorn squash, pineapple mandarin, orange compote July 8: Swiss broccoli pasta, 5-way vegetables, salad with lite ranch, banana, Mitzie’s ww rolls with butter July 9: Chicken fajita, savory black beans with cilantro, tortilla ww, cheddar cheese, Mexicali corn, orange July 10: Roast beef sandwich on wheat, chunky vegetable soup, oven browned potatoes, confetti salad, apple July 13: Sloppy Joe on a bun, scalloped potatoes, broccoli and carrots, apple July 14: Tuna noodle casserole, spinach salad with eggs, perfection salad, apple, ww roll with butter July 15: Dijon chicken, brown rice, broccoli florets, vegetable salad, strawberries, raisin nut cup, ww bread with butter July 16: Lemon baked fish, scalloped potatoes, spinach salad with mandarin oranges, malt vinegar, banana, ww bread with butter July 17: Chili relleno bake, corn and zucchini, Mexicana tortilla ww, salsa, tossed salad with lemon wedge, plums

July 20: Tuna salad on shredded romaine, tomato slice, pasta salad, orange, raisin nut cup, ww dinner roll July 21: Submarine turkey sandwich on ww hoagie roll, chunky vegetable soup, potato salad, orange, oatmeal raisin cookie July 22: Black bean and tortilla casserole, steamed brown rice, whipped sweet potatoes, mixed fruit July 23: Chicken cordon blue, wild rice pilaf, seasoned asparagus, chilled apricots, ww bread with butter July 24: Meatloaf, brown gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, vegetable salad, pineapple tidbits, ww bread with butter July 27: Enchilada pie, refried beans, tortilla chips with salsa, clementine July 28: Stuffed peppers, chopped spinach with malt vinegar, applesauce cake, ww bread with butter July 29: Macaroni and cheese, vegetable salad, asparagus, banana, ww bread with butter July 30: Roast chicken, mushroom sauce, steamed brown rice, seasoned cauliflower, broccoli mix, apple pear salad with almonds, ww bread with butter July 31: Smothered pork chop, cream gravy, smashed red potatoes, cooked collard greens, apple, bran muffin FLORENCE SENIOR CENTER July 2: BBQ pork ribs, creamy coleslaw, corn cob, seasoned greens, watermelon, bran muffin July 3: Closed in observance of Independence Day July 7: Tuna stuffed tomato, cottage cheese, spinach salad with mandarin, oranges, pasta salad with chick-

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peas and sunnies, apple, rye bread July 9: Chicken fajita, savory black beans with cilantro, tortilla ww, cheddar cheese, Mexicali corn, orange July 10: Roast beef sandwich on wheat, chunky vegetable soup, oven browned potatoes, confetti salad, apple July 14: Macaroni and cheese, vegetable salad, asparagus, banana, ww bread with butter July 16: Lemon baked fish, scalloped potatoes, spinach salad with mandarin oranges, malt vinegar, banana, ww bread with butter July 17: Chili relleno bake, corn and zucchini Mexicana, tortilla ww , salsa, tossed salad with lemon wedge, plums July 21: Beef broccoli stir fry, brown rice, steamed carrots, pineapple tidbits, ww bread July 23: Chicken cordon bleu, wild rice pilaf, seasoned asparagus, chilled apricots, ww bread with butter July 24: Meatloaf, brown gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, vegetable salad, pineapple tidbits, ww bread with butter July 28: Baked potato, broccoli with cheese sauce, tossed salad with lite French, plum, fruit cocktail, drop biscuit with butter July 30: Roast chicken, mushroom sauce, steamed brown rice, seasoned cauliflower broccoli mix, apple pear salad with almonds, ww bread with butter July 31: Smothered pork chops, cream gravy, smashed red potatoes, cooked collard greens, apple, bran muffin SALIDA AND BUENA VISTA July 2: BBQ pork ribs, creamy coleslaw, corn cob, seasoned greens, watermelon bran muffin

Canon City (719) 345-4112 Salida (719) 539-3351

July 3: Closed in observance of Independence Day July 7: Italian sausage, marinara sauce, spaghetti, broccoli, tossed salad, pears, ww bread July 9: Chicken fajita, savory black beans with cilantro, tortilla ww, cheddar cheese, Mexicali corn, orange July 10: Roast beef sandwich on wheat, chunky vegetable soup, oven browned potatoes, confetti salad, apple July 14: White bean chicken chili, spinach salad with lite Italian, apple, cornbread with butter, orange juice July 16: Lemon baked fish, scalloped potatoes, spinach salad with mandarin, oranges, malt vinegar, banana and ww bread with butter July 17: Chili relleno bake, corn and zucchini Mexicana, tortilla ww, salsa, tossed salad with lemon wedge, plums July 21: Sloppy joe on a bun, scalloped potatoes, broccoli and carrots, apple July 23: Chicken cordon bleu, wild rice pilaf, seasoned asparagus, chilled apricots, ww bread with butter July 24: Meatloaf, brown gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, vegetable salad, pineapple tidbits, ww bread with butter July 28: Hamburger on a bun, ww, lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, mustard, baked beans, potato salad, orange July 30: Roast chicken, mushroom sauce, steamed brown rice, seasoned cauliflower broccoli mix, apple pear salad with almonds, ww bread with butter July 31: Smothered pork chop, cream gravy, smashed red potatoes, cooked collard greens, apple, bran muffin

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 15

SENIOR SAFETY

PUEBLO POLICE DEPARTMENT — 549-1200 | PUEBLO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE — 583-6125 | EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE — 520-7100 | COLORADO SPRINGS POLICE DEPT. — 444-7000 | FREMONT COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPT. — 784-3411 | CANON CITY POLICE DEPT. — 276-5600

Reschedule Postponed Mammogram DURING THE 'STAY at home’ order, life slowed down and appointments got moved. If your annual mammogram screening fell into this time period, it’s time to reschedule this important appointment. Across Centura, there remains a 35% decline in mammography screenings which worries caregivers about long-term impact.

Centura Health-St. Thomas More Hospital wants to remind our patients and communities that all of their health care needs, whether life-threatening conditions or annual screenings, can be treated safely and is encouraged during this phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. St. Thomas More is taking added precautions to assure the safety of our patients when coming in for any diagnostic imaging study, including mammography, x-rays, MRIs and more.

“We believe a key reason that patients are slow to return is the fear of contracting COVID-19 in a health care setting,” stated Johanna Shearer, MBA, Director Imaging Services at St. Thomas More. “Across the country, people were encouraged to ‘stay at home’ which was the right message to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Now as the first wave of this pandemic is behind us, patients should remember the long-term importance of self-care, prevention and wellness visits.”

According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the second

This month’s Senior Safety Page is Proudly Sponsored by PB&T BANK! Give them a call right away! And thank them for sponsoring this valuable addition to the Senior Beacon!! most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, possibly before it has spread. If you’ve been putting off having your mammograms, here are three reasons to stop delaying and schedule one now: Early detection may save your life.

When breast cancer is found early, the cancer is often smaller and treatable with better long-term survival.

Regular breast self-exams, annual clinical exams and annual screening mammograms can help detect breast cancer early.

Mammograms are not painful.

It is true that you may feel some discomfort during a mammogram, but this discomfort lasts only a few seconds. It is not a painful procedure.

And it is okay to talk to your radiology technologist, who will be performing the mammogram, about your concerns about pain. He or she will be able to answer any questions and help you relax during the screening.

There’s nothing to be afraid of.

Many women choose not to have a mammogram because they are

afraid of being diagnosed with breast cancer and as of late, people are afraid they will be exposed to COVID-19. It’s important to remember that a mammogram can be the easiest way to find

a problem early, and the earlier the cancer is found, the easier it is to treat and the more likely you are to survive.

In addition to thorough cleaning between patients, Centura hospitals and facilities have implemented enhanced safety measures such as screening patients for symptoms of the illness before they enter the imaging center, and isolating anyone who shows signs of the virus, the risk is low.

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Page 16 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

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REELING

ESCAPING INTO FILM DURING A PANDEMIC RECOMMENDATIONS SOME FILMS JUST ALLOW VIEWERS TO WATCH AND FEEL GOOD AFTERWARD BETTY JO TUCKER Pueblo award winning film critic

D

uring grim times like this Covid-19 pandemic, I find myself thinking about movies that have made me feel good after watching them.

Although there are too many to mention, the five films below (in alphabetical order) are my favorites – and I enjoy viewing them over and over again.

IN THE GOOD OLD SUMMERTIME (1949).

In this colorful period musical, “irresistible” describes Judy Garland’s performance.

She plays a spunky woman trying to make good in a new job while carrying on a “secret friend” pen pal relationship with an anonymous co-worker, portrayed by Van Johnson who does his best ever acting as Judy’s co-star.

The warmth of all the characters in this fun romantic comedy never ceases to surround me.

And, of course, there’s Judy belting out “I Don’t Care!” which is one of the most exuberant numbers of her magnificent career.

PADDINGTON 2 (2018).

This delightful sequel centers on our hero’s efforts to find the perfect gift for his dear aunt and what happens when the gift he chooses gets stolen.

Paddington has to spend a bit of time in a London prison, and one of the film’s highlights shows how my favorite bear changes the entire prison for the better.

Besides focusing on colorful characters, the movie emphasizes kindness, humanity, compassion – and the magic of marmalade sandwiches. I absolutely love it!

SEVEN CHANCES (1925).

Buster Keaton starred and directed this silent slapstick comedy. It’s one my husband and I enjoy seeing every time TCM features it on TV. But by the end of the film, we are exhausted from laughing so much, which proves this offering is one of our favorite “feel good” flicks.

Despite some bad taste sight gags, the movie always wins us over with Keaton’s comic stunts. He plays a man who needs a lot of money to keep him out of jail.

When he finds out he can inherit 7 million dollars from his grandfather if he is married on his 27th birthday by 7 p.m., which is that same day, Keaton puts an ad in a local dally.

Results?

Hundreds of women end up running after him in one of the greatest film chases we’ve ever seen. I can’t help feeling good just writing about this one.

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN (1952).

If I were told I could see only one more movie before I die, without hesitation my choice would be “Singin’ in the Rain.”

I’ve watched this glorious musical many times, and each viewing seems as fresh and lively as the first day it sang and danced its way across the big screen and into my heart. I’ve never been able to spot one dull minute in the entire film.

Based on the crisis Hollywood faced back in the 1920s when "talkies" came on the scene, the clever story by Adolph Green and Betty Comden zips along from beginning to end -- with captivating musical numbers (from songwriters Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown) performed by the great Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds and Cyd Charisse. A cinematic triumph, for sure!

THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939).

Yes, this classic movie features a Wicked Witch and scary flying monkeys, but the way young Judy Garland’s Dorothy Gale handles herself after a destructive tornado drops her into a strange world warms my heart.

And her humanistic interaction with the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion makes her a role model to emulate.

We all have a longing for home, so “The Wizard of Oz” always reminds me about the importance of family and friends. Plus, I can’t help being awed by the film’s wonderful special effects.

Everything about this magical motion picture comes across as timeless entertainment.

Be safe, everyone!

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 17

THE WELL-DRESSED GARDEN

Food for Thought: A Bountiful Harvest planting lettuce in a hanging basvarieties, Blazek says. Staying up ket, tomatoes or squash in a big pot to date with hybrids gives you an on the patio, or cucumbers to grow edge. up a trellis against the garage wall.

Seed suppliers, including Burpee, Make room for parsley around the Johnny's Selected Seeds, Territoriedge of a flower garden and grow al Seed Co. and others, also have dill among a patch of zinnias. articles on their websites to address On a balcony, you can grow gardeners' questions and coach strawberries, radishes or cherry them through the growing season tomatoes. to a successful and satisfying harGardeners always have questions, vest. Bonnie Plants, whose vegetaand the National Garden Bureau is ble transplants of all kinds are comhelping gardeners with extra supmonly available at big-box stores, port from plant breeders and other has well-researched garden guides expert vegetable gardeners this for individual crops on its website, year, including advice on growing as well as ideas for small gardens, tomatoes, peppers, melons, strawedible landscaping and raised-bed berries, and other favorites. The gardening, among other topics.

NBG's website is full of inspiration, Local garden shops, community advice, encouragement, ideas, recgardens and university extension ommendations and links to planning tools for gardeners at every level of experience.

All-America Selections emphasizes modern hybrids. Heirloom varieties • Affordable & Flexible Care Options are popular for their great • Local, Experienced Care Providers flavor, but new hybrids often • Pueblo County’s only preferred provider for have heirloom Veterans Care Coordination® flavor built in, and they resist Pueblo’s First Home Care Agency Is diseases better and are much more productive than older

offices, with their master gardener hotlines, are also ready and eager to help. This is an opportunity they don't want to miss.

In her own small urban garden in the Chicago area, Blazek grows half a dozen different tomato plants, varieties she can't find in local grocery stores or even at farmer's markets.

"I plant some of the unique things," she says, such as orange tomatoes and super-sweet cherry and grape tomatoes. She likes "cool, Mad Hatter-shaped peppers" and plants lots of arugula -- reminding herself every year that the crop really needs to be thinned out ruthlessly to produce lots of big, delicious, leaves.

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THERE'S A LOT at stake in vegetable gardens this year -- new gardeners have seized the moment to plant kitchen-garden favorites, and they're eager to experience the delicious taste of success.

MARTY ROSS Freelance garden Sales of journalist and both seed syndicated gardening columnist packets and small transplant-sized starts of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash and other summer vegetables soared this spring as stayat-home and safe-at-home guidelines changed the way we all live and work.

Sheltering in place turned out to be the inspiration for so many new vegetable gardens that the National Garden Bureau, which is celebrating 100 years of promoting home gardening, launched a modern Victory Garden campaign based on the World War II backyard-gardening initiative.

The NGB's founder, James Burdett, wrote the original Victory Garden manual back in 1943, and "it just seemed like a natural for us" to take up the cause again, says Diane Blazek, executive director of NGB and its sister organization, All-America Selections, which tests new vegetable and flower varieties and recognizes top performers with AAS awards. More than anything, she says, "we want people to be successful."

Success can be measured in many ways. Nothing tastes better than a just-picked tomato you eat right out of your hand in your own backyard. A fistful of green beans you've grown yourself is more delicious than any bean you can buy. But tending a vegetable garden also gives you an excuse to step away from all the demands on us, even at the best of times, and cultivate a relationship with nature. Over the course of the summer, your emotional harvests may include the thrill of seeing tiny seedlings emerge from the soil, the wonder of finding the first fruits on a squash plant, and the delight of pulling home-grown carrots out of the ground.

In the 1940s, backyard gardens were quite large, and families -- on average -- grew almost 40% of the fruits and vegetables they ate. But you don't need a 60-foot row of corn, kale or potatoes to earn your modern gardening chops. Even in a small garden, you can produce a gratifyingly impressive harvest. Try

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Page 18 - Senior Beacon - July 2020

SENIOR CLASSIFIEDS

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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

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

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 19

SOCIAL SECURITY & YOU

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

New SocialSecurity Feature Gives Control THE FUTURE CAN be un-

certain. However, Social Security’s new Advance Designation program can help put you in control of your benefits if a time comes when you need a representative payee to help manage your money.

Advance Designation enables you to identify up to three people, in priority order, whom you would like to serve as your potential representative payee.

The following people may choose an Advance Designation: Adults applying for benefits who do not have a representative payee.

Adult beneficiaries or recipients who do not have a representative payee.

Emancipated minors applying for benefits who do not have a representative payee.

Emancipated minor beneficiaries or recipients who do not have a representative payee.

If you fall into one of the above categories, you may provide and update Advance Designation information when you:

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Use the application available in your personal my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/ myaccount.

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In the event that you can no longer make your own decisions, you and your family will have peace of mind knowing you already chose someone you trust to manage your benefits.

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Disability – Apply for disability at www.ssa.gov/disabilityonline.

You can use the online application to apply for disability benefits if you: Are age 18 or older.

Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record.

Are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

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VISIT US ONLINE AT: SeniorBeacon.info

SOCIAL SECURITY & YOU Question: I pay my monthly premium directly to my Medicare prescription drug plan provider. Why can’t I also pay my income-related monthly adjustment amount directly to my Medicare prescription drug plan provider?

Answer: By law, we must deduct your income-related monthly adjustment amount from your Social Security payments. If the amount you owe is more than the amount of your payment, or you don't get monthly payments, you will get a separate bill from another federal agency, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services or the Railroad Retirement Board. Read our publication, Medicare Premiums: Rules for Higher-Income Beneficiaries, for an idea of what you can expect to pay. You’ll find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Question: I am applying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. Can state agencies help with my Medicare costs?

Answer: When you file your application for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs, you can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programs — state programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. When you apply for Extra Help, Social Security will send information to your state unless you tell us not to on the application. Your state will contact

you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program. Learn more about how Social Security can provide Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug costs by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp.

Question: If I have a question about my Medicare bill, who should I contact?

Answer: First, contact your provider. If you are unable to get your question answered or the problem resolved, then contact 1-800 MEDICARE (1800-633-4227). For more information about Medicare benefits, visit www.medicare.gov.

Question: I need to make changes to my Medicare prescription drug coverage. When can I do that?

Answer: Open season for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage runs from October 15 to December 7. The Medicare Part D prescription drug program is available to all Medicare beneficiaries. Joining a Medicare prescription drug plan is voluntary and participants pay an additional monthly premium. If you are considering changing your plan, you might want to revisit the Application for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs. If you have limited resources and income, you may also be eligible for Extra Help to pay monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-pay-

ments. Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. To find out more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. For more information about the Medicare prescription drug program itself, visit www.medicare. gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048).

Question: I applied for Medicare benefits last week. How can I check the status of my application?

Answer: You can check the status at our secure website, secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/IAPS/applicationStatus, but you must wait five days from the date you originally filed. You will need to enter your Social Security number and the confirmation number you received when you filed your application. Your application status also shows the date that we received your application, any requests for additional documents, the address of the office processing your application, and whether a decision has been made about your benefits. If you are unable to check your status online, you can call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Question: I will rely on Medicare when I retire. Can you explain the different parts of Medicare?

Answer: The different parts of Medicare cover your specific needs. There are four parts, all of which work in tandem to deliver healthcare services.

• Part A (hospital insurance): Hospital insurance helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility (following a hospital stay), some home health care, and hospice care.

• Part B (medical insurance): Medical insurance helps pay for doctors’ services and many other medical services and supplies that hospital insurance doesn’t cover.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage plans): If you have Medicare Parts A and B, you can join a Medicare Advantage plan. Private companies offer Medicare Advantage plans which are approved by Medicare. These plans generally help you pay the medical costs not covered by Medicare Part A and B. • Part D (prescription drug coverage): Prescription drug coverage helps pay for medications

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 21

SOCIAL SECURITY & YOU doctors prescribe for treatment.

Question: I understand you must have limited resources to be eligible for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. What does this mean?

Answer: Resources include the value of the things you own. Some examples are real estate (other than your primary residence); bank accounts, including checking, savings, and certificates of deposit; stocks; bonds, including United States Savings Bonds; mutual funds; Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA); and cash you have at home or anywhere else. To learn more about Extra Help, and to apply online, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ prescriptionhelp.

Question: I lost my Medicare card. How can I get replacement?

Answer: The easiest and newest way to get a replacement Medicare card is by using your my Social Security account. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount for more information on how to create an account. You also can get a replacement Medicare card by calling us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Keep your card in a safe place. You don’t want anyone getting hold of your Social Security number. They could steal your identity.

Question: How do I terminate my Medicare Part B (medical insurance)?

Answer: You can voluntarily terminate your Medicare Part B (medical insurance). Because this is a serious decision that could have negative ramifications for you in the future, you’ll need to have a personal interview with a Social Security representative first. The representative will help you complete Form CMS 1763. This form isn’t available online. To schedule your interview, call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., or contact your nearest Social Security office. For more information, go to www.medicare.gov.

Question: How do I apply for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs?

Answer: You have several options for applying. You can: • Apply online by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/medicare/ prescriptionhelp; • Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-3250778) to apply over the phone or request an application; or • Apply at any local Social Security office.

Anyone who has Medicare can get Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Some people with

limited resources and income are eligible for Extra Help to pay for the costs — monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments — related to a Medicare prescription drug plan.

Learn more at www.socialsecurity. gov/medicare.

Question: What can I do if my Medicare prescription drug plan says it won't pay for a drug that my doctor prescribed for me?

Answer: If your Medicare prescription drug plan decides that it won't pay for a prescription drug, it must tell you in writing why the drug isn't covered in a letter called a "Notice of Denial of Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage." Read the notice carefully because it will explain how to ask for an appeal. Your prescribing doctor can ask your Medicare drug plan for an expedited redetermination (first level appeal) for you, if the doctor tells the plan that waiting for a standard appeal decision may seriously harm your health. For more information, visit www.medicare.gov.

Question: If I retire at age 62, will I be eligible for Medicare?

Answer: No. Medicare starts when you reach 65. If you retire at 62, you may be able to continue medical insurance coverage through your employer or purchase it from a private insurance company until you become eligible for Medicare. For more information see our publication, Medicare, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs, or call us at 1-800772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Question: I want to apply for Medicare Part B medical insurance this year.

When is the deadline to apply?

Answer: If you didn’t sign up for Medicare Part B medical insurance when you first became eligible for Medicare, you have an opportunity to apply during the general enrollment period, which runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until next year to apply. Medicare Part B covers some medical expenses not covered by Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), such as doctors’ fees, outpatient hospital visits, and other medical supplies.

You can learn more about Medicare by reading our electronic booklet, Medicare at www.socialsecurity. gov/pubs/10043.html.

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Page 22 - Senior Beacon - July 2020 ART

Art Center Reopens With Mask Rules TO QUOTE THE Grateful Dead, “What a long strange trip it’s been.�

At least we’re seeing some light at the end of the tunnel with the Arts Center and Children’s Museum opening for Members July 1 & 2 and the general public July 3.

Days and times are respectful of Coronavirus.

Galleries and Children’s Museum are open Wed – Sat 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 3pm. Advance timed tickets are required, even for members at sdc-arts.org and masks must be worn for 3 and over.

For the latest information visit www.sdc-arts.org.

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July 2020 - Senior Beacon - Page 23

OPINION-EDITORIAL

DAVID SHRIBMAN

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

WE HAVE NOT ACHIEVED JUSTICE FOR ALL

AS WE APPROACH this Fourth of July, we -- the heirs to the Declaration of Independence -- are engaged in nationwide introspection on the nature of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness� nearly two and a half centuries after those seven words became an uplifting shorthand for the American creed.

In the wake of the police killings in Minneapolis and Atlanta, and with a surge of support for new protections and equal opportunities for Black Americans, people across the country are examining their own communities, their own practices, their own beliefs and their own hearts.

In an earlier time, those reflections were prompted by the soaring rhetoric of July 4th addresses, often issued from town bandstands or in local assembly halls. John Quincy Adams on Independence Day

1821, for example, spoke of how the nation great," said the World War II American Revolution “swept away war hero John F. Kennedy on July all the rubbish of accumulated cen4, 1946, months before he would be turies of servitude." elected to his first term in Congress.

In 1876, the centenary of the “It is well for us to recall them today, signing of the Declaration, his son, for this is a day of recollection and a Charles Francis Adams, issued day of hope.� a plea that “the rights to life and For Kennedy it was a day, too, of liberty and the pursuit of happiness, commemoration. In the audience which we have honorably secured, was John F. Fitzgerald, known in his may be firmly entailed upon the time and in historical lore as "Honever enlarging generations of maney Fitz," a onetime member of the kind." Some 110 years later, Ronald Boston Common Council, a mayor Reagan, in words Americans might of Boston, and a House member appreciate and appropriate today, during the administrations of both said, “Tonight, with heart and hand, William McKinley and William through whatever trial and travail, Howard Taft. we pledge ourselves to each other Exactly a half-century earlier, and to the cause of human freedom, Kennedy’s grandfather had given an the cause that has given light to this Independence Day address in that land and hope to the world.�

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24+510'45 %1//+66+0) #016*'4 sold slaves in the 18th century. %4+/' #0& 4'6740+0) 61 24+510 There, in a setting where Frederick Douglass beseeched his listeners to work to end slavery in the 19th century, a fresh voice of the 20th century was heard for the first time by a large audience. “I propose today to discuss 3 2 %R[ &DQRQ &LW\ &2 certain elements of the American ZZZ 3UD\HU)RU3ULVRQHUV RUJ character which have made this

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very same setting. In the years that passed, the United States moved from splendid, self-satisfied isolation to global engagement and fought two world wars, all in pursuit of liberty abroad but in denial of liberty to Black Americans at home.

In his speech, Kennedy -- a political novice, but a deep reader of history -- cited several elements of the American character, one of which was religious piety and the power of the central ideals of religion. “This nation has ever been inspired by essential religious ideas," he said. “The doctrine of slavery which challenged these ideas within our own country was destroyed.�

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.

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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

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