Issuu

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

JANUARY 2021

Embrace the empty nest Learn the art of cooking small

Our 2021 BEACON Guide is here! Call us to request your FREE copies of this trusted guide to aging well.

Donâ€™t fall for your old diet tricks

Sleep among history in these historic hotels

We have the personal protective equipment and protocols in place to ensure your safety from COVID-19

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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4 | JANUARY 2021 |

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IN THIS ISSUE

National & Regional Award-Winning Publication JANUARY 2021 | Volume 34 | Issue1

Publisher & Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps

Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg

Graphic Designers B. Bigler Chrissy Martin

7 Editor’s Column

30 Faith: Who is my neighbor?

8 Cover Story: The art of cooking small

31 Buy and sell with ease: How to use online classifieds

Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin

Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude Advertising Executives Debra Romaniec Melodie Simon Siggie Carpenter Advertising Assistant Lindsey Christensen Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Lauren VanGundy JR Milner

P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502 Phone: 970-243-8829 Website:

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month and is distributed at more than 300 locations throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. The BEACON’s mission is to give hope and help to western Colorado seniors and those who serve them. Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 15th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available upon request. © Copyright 2021 • All Rights Reserved

10 Wooden birds of a feather: Local carver specializes in waterfowl 12 Recipe: Chicken, Spinach & Grape Pita 13 Ask the Old Bag: I’ve fallen in love with a snowbird 14 Why can’t my doctor tell what’s wrong with me? 15 Dear Pharmacist: Lower cholesterol without “drug mugging: 16 Don’t fall for your old diet tricks 18 Laughing Matters 20 VOA art exhibit helps seniors express feelings during pandemic 21 Boomer Beat: Two life-changing words 22 A go-to guide for indoor house plants 24 Become a citizen scientist 26 Weird and wonderful holidays in 2021 28 Sleep among history: Historic hotels offer a glimpse into the past

24 32 Finances in a pandemic: Seniors are better off! 34 Medicare questions? Get unbiased clarity from Medicare Resource Center 36 Mesa County 36 Calendar 38 Clubs & Activities 40 Beacon Bits 41 Question of the Month 42 Support Groups 44 Montrose & Delta Counties 44 Calendar 46 Clubs & Activities 47 Fun After 50 48 Beacon Bits 49 Question of the Month 45 Make new friends with the Montrose Lunch Bunch 50 Fun & Games 53 Classifieds 54 Hit the gym. Your life depends on it.

Historical society saves the beehive!

On the Cover

Author Corey Colombin shares just how easy cooking for two can be. Photo by B. Bigler

This iconic 90-year-old structure was once a honey stand selling the wares of the Sanders Beehive Ranch in Grand Junction. For 60 years, it sat in misuse at 2580 Patterson Road. Thanks to the efforts of concerned citizens and the Mesa County Historical Society, the hive was moved to its new home at the historic Mahan Manor on Orchard Mesa. For more information about its history, contact Priscilla Mangnall at 260-5226 or at Priscilla. Mangnall@gmail.com.

Your FREE guide to aging well in Western Colorado

The

Your road map to navigating the transitions ahead

The

e d i u G

Your FREE guid

e to aging well

in Mesa County

Guide

• Mesa County BEACON Guide Available now! • Montrose-Delta BEACON Guide Coming in January! Inside the 2021 BEACON Guide, you’ll find: • Hundreds of local, state and national resources and hard-to-find phone numbers. Every year we personally call each phone number to verify accuracy • Contact information for reputable companies and services.

MESA COUNT

The

Y 2021

Your FREE guide to aging well in Montrose & Delta Counties

• Resources organized into a timeline of when you might need them.

Guide

• Insightful and informative articles to help you make sense of it all.

More resources online! Visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com to explore a virtual format of guide. Easily search for keywords, link directly to advertiser’s websites and more!

Call today to request your FREE copies!

243-8829

Request in bulk for your business and we’ll deliver.

MONTROSE & DELTA COUNT IES 20

EDITOR'S COLUMN

You mean, 2020 isn’t over yet? D

ue to the busy holiday season, it’s not uncommon for the BEACON’s January issue to come out a little earlier than expected. In fact, at the time of writing this column, Christmas has yet to arrive. I always struggle writing the first column of the new year because it’s so hard to get my mind to move past the hectic holidays and refresh. I should probably start writing my new year’s column months in advance. But, if anything, 2020 is proof of just how quickly things can change. Much of my column from last year was about the many exciting things the BEACON had coming up—things like our February Valentine’s Dance and our annual BeaconFest senior fair. In a span of just weeks, we went from “full speed ahead” to an abrupt stop. This year made us realize that stopping to smell the roses is something we should do more often. However, what’s the point when there aren’t any roses because it’s the middle of winter? I’m ready to catch up with everyone I didn’t get to see and do all the things I missed in 2020 (including BeaconFest). Cheers to a much better year in 2021!

TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE BEACON Every month, I think about how the BEACON can better serve our readers. As we look at planning stories in the new year, I’d love to hear from you! What do you love most about the BEACON? What are your favorite stories? What would you like to see more of? Let me know at Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

2021 MESA COUNTY BEACON GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE Inside this January issue, Mesa County readers will find a copy of the 2021 BEACON Guide, our annual resource directory and guide to aging well in Western Colorado. In addition to hundreds of local, state and national resources and hard-to-find phone numbers, this trusted guide features insightful and informative articles to help with the transitions that you or a loved one may be going through. If you can’t find your 2021 guide in this issue, or want to request multiple copies, call us at 243-8829.

MONTROSE-DELTA BEACON GUIDE COMING SOON Readers in Montrose and Delta counties can keep an eye out for the 2021 Montrose-Delta BEACON Guide, which comes out in our February issue! Don’t want to wait? Give us a call and we’ll send you a copy when it comes out in January.

BEST LOCAL

L OV E D

2021 THE RESULTS ARE IN! Did you vote for the BEACON Best? If so, you could win a $50 gift card to one of your favorite businesses or hot spots on the western slope. Look for your name in next month’s BEACON, along with those local businesses that BEACON readers think are top notch. ■

LETTERS

from our readers “I will be in Grand Junction on Monday closing my loan generated by the BEACON. Additionally, Debra is the BEACON account rep who has been enormous in helping with my networking in Mesa County. I value our relationship with the BEACON!” - Richard Stewart, Interlinc Mortgage Services RE: “How to self-publish your autobiography” (November) “Wonderful article! Thank you for sharing, and thank you, Mr. Chinn, for your service!” - Brian Oney, Mesa County Veteran Services Officer RE: “Counting down to Christmas: I still get excited about stockings” (December) “Filling stockings has been one of my favorite things about Christmas. Although I don’t fill stockings any more, I get to see my grandkids’ eyes light up when they open theirs. I’m thrilled that my kids have kept the tradition with their kids.” - Rachel Shaw RE: “End 2020 intentionally, celebrating the good” (December) “This year has been tough for many. I like Melanie Wiseman’s advice on reliving fond memories and looking at what went right. I’m ready to start fresh in the new year.” - D. Hall RE: “BEACON Senior News wins national awards” (December) “Just got my copy of the BEACON for December. Woo hoo on all the great awards from NAMPA! Congratulations! Naturally, I couldn’t help but notice the happy second place award for the profile category given to yours, truly. How exciting! I will happily wallow in that recognition for a moment or two.” - Corey Colombin “Congratulations, BEACON staff!” - Dwayla C. “I love the stories in the BEACON! Your team does amazing work!” - Candice Newbold

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Cloie Sandlin, Editor in Chief

Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com Mail: P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

COVER STORY

The art of

cooking small

By Corey Colombin

am the mother of five grown children. As our family grew, I adjusted my shopping, food prep and cooking methods to accommodate. One by one, as my children began to leave the nest, I found that shopping and cooking meals for a smaller household presented its own challenges. I went from preparing meals for a family of seven down to two—my husband and me. So, at the ripe age of 55, I was faced with a choice: throw in the towel and buy frozen dinners, or divert my energy and creativity into making flavorful meals for the two of us. I decided that we’re worth the extra effort. It’s not about making do or simply cooking less—it’s about doing it better and with pride. After some trial and error, I learned that planning and executing savory meals for two is an art form—the art of cooking small.

PLAN, FREEZE, ENJOY Grocery store bargains are often best when buying in bulk. Even though you may only need a twopack of pork chops, it can cost the same as a “family” pack of six. So, what do you do with the remaining four chops? The key to utilizing bulk bargains is twofold: menu planning and organized freezing. I utilize a weekly menu template I created on my computer with the days of the week listed at the top, followed by the space needed to list the meals. Underneath is my grocery list, organized by the path I take through the store. Creating a weekly menu is a good prompt to look for ingredients in the kitchen before heading out to shop, which eliminates repetitive purchases.

SAMPLE MENU

• Monday: Pot roast (carrots, onion, potatoes, celery) • Tuesday: Sausage pasta and asparagus tips in lemon crema, salad, French bread • Wednesday: Beef tarts, soup

Tips, tricks and recipes for empty nesters

• Thursday: Leftovers • Friday: Soup and grilled cheese sandwich corners (made with French bread), pasta salad • Saturday: Saturday chicken over rice, asparagus, or peas • Sunday: French toast breakfast, leftovers • Soup of the week: Broccoli potato and cheese

SAMPLE GROCERY LIST • Dairy: sliced cheese (variety), grated sharp cheddar, half and half, eggs, butter, rolled pie crust. • Deli: lunch meat, pasta salad • Bread: English muffins, sandwich bread, French loaf • Meat: chicken thighs, pot roast, mild Italian sausage • Canned: evaporated milk (12 oz), cream of mushroom soup, Better than Bouillon. • Frozen: peas • Dry goods: boxed bowtie pasta, instant rice, Lipton Onion Soup Mix, cornstarch, instant mashed potatoes, paprika. • Produce: salad, carrots, potatoes, yellow onion, small bag

8 | COVER STORY | JANUARY 2021 |

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THIS MENU IS AN EXAMPLE OF VARIED FLAVORS WITH OVERLAPPING INGREDIENTS, RESULTING IN NO WASTE of broccoli florets, asparagus, lemons (2-3). This menu is an example of varied flavors with overlapping ingredients, resulting in no waste. All recipes are easy to execute, using readily available and affordable ingredients. If you begin with the pot roast on Monday, you’ll use the leftovers on Wednesday for the meat tart filling, which you can pair with the homemade soup. On Tuesday, start another meal creating leftovers for Thursday. Throughout the week, you’ll use slices of French bread for dinner on Tuesday and Friday, and for breakfast on Sunday. The yummiest way to finish off a loaf of French bread is to make French toast for breakfast. After you’ve served homemade soup on Wednesday and Friday, you can freeze to enjoy another day. Soup is one of the most freezer friendly things to make. A typical serving for two fits nicely in a quart-

sized freezer bag. Label and lay flat to freeze. Once you’ve frozen several varieties, it’s like having a soup bar stored in the freezer, waiting to heat and serve. Freezing is essential to menu planning and food storage, and most of these menu items are freezer friendly. For successful freezing, keep on hand gallon-sized and quart-sized freezer bags and a Sharpie pen to write what you are packaging and the date it’s being frozen. If you have a vacuum sealer, even better. When buying bulk packages of meat, always separate it into proper portions before freezing, and double bag to avoid freezer burn. Besides meat and leftovers, other common items that freeze well include grated cheese, butter, rolled pie crusts, tortillas, bread products (short term) and homemade cookies and brownies.

Featured Recipes POT ROAST • Small to medium beef pot roast • 3-4 potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters • 4 carrot stalks, peeled and cut into chunks • 2 stalks celery, chopped • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped • 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix • 1 Tbsp. Better than Bouillon beef paste • 2 Tbsp. cornstarch Place roast in the middle of a large roasting pan. Add water or beef stock until roast is mostly covered. Add bouillon. Sprinkle onion soup mix on top of roast. In oven, cover and cook at 350° for at least an hour. Tuck vegetables around the

roast in the water or broth. Make sure the water level is adequate throughout the process and remove the vegetables when tender, even if the roast requires more time. Cooking takes about 3 hours. When done, remove the roast. To make gravy, mix 2 Tbsp. cornstarch with cold water to make a paste. Stir paste into drippings and whisk until thickened. Salt and pepper to taste.

SAUSAGE PASTA & ASPARAGUS TIPS • Mild Italian sausage, loose • Box of bowtie pasta • 2 lemons, washed • Evaporated milk • Asparagus tips (can be substituted with frozen peas) • 2 Tbsp. butter Boil and drain pasta per box instructions. Brown sausage in frying pan, remove and set aside. In the same pan, soften asparagus in sausage grease and 1 Tbsp. butter. In a small saucepan, add evaporated milk with remaining butter and simmer on low heat, stirring frequently with an egg whisk. Grate some zest from washed lemons. Set aside. Extract juice from both lemons. When milk mixture is frothy, lower temperature and gently add lemon juice,

whisking continuously. The result is a thin, lemon crema sauce. If it’s too thin, gradually introduce cornstarch paste to thicken. In a casserole dish, toss together the sausage, pasta, asparagus tips, lemon crema sauce and zest.

BEEF TARTS (Savory seconds of pot roast) • Leftover pot roast and vegetables • Leftover gravy • Rolled pie crust • Flour • Egg wash (1 egg, 1 teaspoon oil) Chop leftover meat and vegetables into small pieces. Mix with gravy. Roll pie crust onto a floured surface and thin it just a bit. Place a salad or dessert plate on the crust for a pattern and cut around the edges. The size of the plate dictates the size of the meat tart. Place a little pile of filling on half of each circle, not touching the edges. Fold over, roll the edge and pinch together. Mark the edges with a floured fork. Poke fork holes in the top of the tart. Place on a cookie sheet in the oven at 350° for 40 minutes. Mix egg with oil to make egg wash. After 40 minutes, brush tarts with egg wash. Cook for ten more minutes or until brown.

BROCCOLI POTATO CHEDDAR SOUP • 1 small package broccoli florets (or one head of broccoli, tops only) • Vegetable broth • 2 cups water • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese • Mashed potato flakes (for thickening)

In a large soup pot, simmer broccoli florets in vegetable broth until tender. As the broccoli absorbs broth, add water to replace fluid level. When thoroughly cooked, mash broccoli with a potato masher in the pan. Add remaining water and stir. Sprinkle in potato flakes and stir until desired thickness is achieved. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese. If you like thinner soup, use more vegetable broth or water. Add seasoning to taste. Top with cheese when serving.

FRENCH TOAST • French bread, sliced to desired thickness (no more than ¾ inch) • 1 egg • Splash of half and half • Cinnamon • Sugar • Powdered sugar

SATURDAY CHICKEN • 1 family pack chicken thighs, skin on • 1 can cream of mushroom soup • 1 cup half and half • Paprika

Trim excess fat from chicken thighs. Take six thighs out of the pack and freeze the rest. Place thighs in an oven-safe casserole pan, skin up. Liberally sprinkle with paprika. In a small bowl, mix mushroom soup with half and half. Pour over thighs. Cook in the oven at 350° for approximately one hour. Then, turn the oven up to 400° and cook an additional 15 minutes to brown the sauce. Serve over rice with lots of sauce.

Cut 4-5 slices of French bread. Mix the egg and half and half in a shallow bowl. Add sugar, sprinkle with cinnamon. Stir. Lay each slice in egg mixture for about 15 seconds on each side. Place on a hot, buttered skillet. Brown on both sides, making sure the egg is cooked. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. ■

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | COVER STORY |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Wooden birds of a feather

Local wood carver specializes in waterfowl By Jan Weeks

Local woodcarver Jim Mense estimates he’s made over 1,000 carvings.

im Mense was just a kid when he first picked up a piece of balsa wood and a pocket knife and created a brook trout. Now 77, he’s been working with wood ever since.

A LIKING FOR WATERFOWL Mense took to carving waterfowl like, well, a duck takes to water. He began to carve while in college, using a knife, ax, draw knife and file. “When I lived in Oklahoma, I had an aviary where I kept ducks. I photographed them and picked them up to study the colors more closely,” Mense explained. Working from original drawings, he specialized in carving waterfowl and other birds, concentrating on ducks. His study of birds wasn’t limited to the realm of carving. Mense earned his Ph.D. in fresh-water ecology from Michigan State University and later moved with his first wife to Oklahoma, where he taught as an adjunct professor in Edmond and Oklahoma City. “I taught every biology class available while the professors were on sabbatical,” he said. Still, carving was his passion. He continued to create custom gunstocks and birds while he taught at night. During the oil boom in the 1970s, he took his work to art shows where he pulled in as much as $4,800 a weekend. A gallery in Dallas, Texas, began selling his carvings. Much to his wife’s disgust, he quit teaching and began sculpting full time. After she left, Mense lived frugally—no television or other frills. In eight years he added

MENSE PREFERS TO USE TUPELO WOOD, WHICH IS HARVESTED FROM SWAMPS IN LOUISIANA. 10 | JANUARY 2021 |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

$40,000 to his bank account, proving to himself and others that shaping waterfowl was more than a hobby. In 1995, after his second marriage, Mense moved to Meeker, Colorado, where he worked on his art full time. Now living alone in Grand Junction, he converted his garage into a woodshop complete with a bandsaw, vises and shelves full of tools and supplies.

THE ART OF CARVING Mense’s carving process begins with sketching the basic shape onto a block of wood, which he then cuts roughly on the band saw. He refines the cutout with a file and other tools. A highspeed grinder—similar to a hand-held Dremel tool—refines the shape further. Once the piece is finely shaped, Mense uses a woodburning tool to etch feathers and other details. Even though it will be painted, those details show through the thinned oil paints that color the piece.

MENSE ESTIMATES HE’S MADE OVER 1,000 CARVINGS. IN HIS PAINTING ROOM HANG THE DOZENS OF RIBBONS HE HAS WON FOR HIS WORK. Mense prefers to use tupelo wood, which is harvested from swamps in Louisiana. Tupelo wood has no grain and is soft, making it easy to shape. Cutters drive boats into the swamps at high tide and wait until the tide goes out, revealing the best wood, which they cut at the low water line. Then they must wait until the tide comes in to bring their harvest home. However, the man Mense purchased his wood from is now 97 and not cutting anymore, leaving Mense to rely on the tupelo wood he has stockpiled. In the corner of his painting room hang the

dozens of ribbons he has won for his work, including first, second and third places at the Ward World Championships in Ocean City, Maryland. His first award was in 1972, the second year the championships were held. Mense estimates he’s made over 1,000 carvings. How long does he spend on each one? “I don’t want to know. Keeping track would make me rush and make mistakes. It would also depress me to know what I actually make per hour!” Mense said. Clients sometimes commission Mense to make pieces to order. His carving of two quail sold for thousands of dollars. Each work is signed and numbered on the bottom to show it’s one of a kind. Judging by both his output and his passion for woodworking, Mense will continue to carve his place in the world of art for the foreseeable future. Find Mense’s work on ebay. His seller name is Bigdog2421. ■

HOME EQUITY means nothing in your retirement unless it is UNLOCKED. Is your largest asset also your largest non-producing asset? Why not at least get the real facts on how to access the appreciating equity in your home? Let me send you some information on the new government-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage. Please call, text or email

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 |

RECIPES

STARVIN’ ARVIN’S DEALS Green Supreme

Biscuits Supreme

$675

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French Toast Special

Small Hamburger Combo

hash browns, scrambled eggs, green chili, white gravy

biscuits, white gravy, ham & cheese

$675

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with side of 2 eggs

fries & drink

3247 F Rd., Clifton ........................................... 434-0777 555 Raptor Rd., Fruita ....................................... 858-8444 1320 S Townsend Ave., Montrose ..................... 249-7787 204 Ute St., Delta .............................................. 874-7288 Pufferbelly 337 S. 1st St., Grand Junction .......... 242-1600

Chicken, Spinach & Grape Pita Recipe courtesey of www.grapesfromcalifornia.com

Makes 4 servings Ingredients: 2 tablespoons pine nuts 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons minced shallot 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1

pinch red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon ground sumac salt

Enjoy Spoons at Home! Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Brunch Your favorite dishes are available for takeout and delivery! Visit SpoonsBistroAndBakery.com to view our full menu. Special offerings include family-style meals and Two Rivers wine to-go. Delivery is available through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Food Dudes Delivery. (970) 255-7237 • 3090 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction All proceeds from Spoons support HopeWest, a nonprofit that has been serving our communities for 27 years.

12 | RECIPES | JANUARY 2021 |

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freshly ground black pepper

1 package (5-6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, washed and dried 11/2 cups shredded, cooked chicken (about 8 ounces) 1 cup red California grapes, sliced 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 4 whole-wheat pita breads (6 1/2 inches each), warmed and halved Directions: In small skillet over medium-high heat, toast pine nuts, stirring constantly until toasted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and let cool. In large bowl, whisk lemon juice, shallot, olive oil, red pepper flakes, sumac, salt and pepper. Add spinach, chicken, grapes, feta and pine nuts; toss to mix. Stuff into pita breads and serve. ■

I’ve fallen in love with a snowbird. What do I do?

ASK THE OLD BAG

Dear Old Bag: I’m a 60-year-old widow who has fallen in love with a 70-year-old man who only winters in my city. In April, he will go back to his other home for six months. I’m not willing to move for six months to his place since all my kids live here. Neither do I cherish having a love affair only for six months of the year. What would you do? Signed, EG Dear EG: I would probably go wherever my man would go, if I were truly in love with him. In these later years, every moment of love is a gift. OB Dear Old Bag: My daughter is so frustrated with her husband. She quit her teaching job to stay home with their four children under 8 years old, two of whom are doing virtual learning. Her husband makes a nice living so money isn’t an issue. My daughter is practically running around all day helping with online learning and managing the two who aren’t in school. She often doesn’t get the meal done on time or get his favorite clothes washed and ironed. Her husband complains that she did better when she was working. When he comes home and sees the house in disarray, he looks around and says, “What did you do all day?” She says it makes her so mad she wants to explode. Any advice? Signed, Worried Dear Worried: Years ago, I was in your daughter’s spot. I had six children at home during the summer. I spent quality time with my kids and my house was often in disarray. At that time, I saw a “Family Circus” cartoon by Bil Keane in which the husband always asked his wife what she had done all day. So, she decided that one day she wouldn’t do anything. When the husband came home, everything was in total disarray. The kids and wife were still in their pajamas, and dirty dishes and toys were everywhere. The husband asked in amazement, “What’s going on?” The wife replied, “You always ask me what I did all day. Well, today I didn’t do it.” I did this exact thing to my husband. He never again asked me what I did all day. Tell your daughter to try it. She, too, will be amazed at just how much she does in a day! OB Dear Old Bag: I’m 80 years old and not in good health. My husband’s in even worse shape than me. He’s fallen several times and lately broke a hip. I’m struggling to take care of him, myself and the house. My kids have suggested alternative living arrangements. I’m ready, but my husband says absolutely not. What can I do? Signed, Help! Dear Help: This is a scenario that’s playing itself out in many elderly households. My advice is, tell your husband that it’s much better to shop around and find a place that meets your needs—and that you feel good about—rather than waiting until one of you has a health emergency that requires you being “put” somewhere not of your choosing. I don’t like the idea of being “put” anywhere, do you? For now, get some outside help for a few hours a day while you research places from your armchair. When most congregate-care facility residents and staff have been vaccinated against the virus, it’ll be safe to visit. If your husband is still dead set against it, tell him you’re going anyway! He will soon realize he wants to be with you. Good luck, OB ■

Discover a tranquil neighborhood all your own. Carefree retirement living. The Cottages let you live independently while giving you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. Our single-level patio homes offer privacy and luxury with open living plans, two bedrooms, two baths, vaulted ceilings, contemporary kitchens, gas fireplace, covered patio, and a one-car garage. Enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with paid utilities, weekly housekeeping, snow removal, lawn maintenance, and flexible meal options at our Commons or Fountains dining rooms. Plus you and your loved ones get peace of mind with a 24-hour emergency response system.

(970) 434-2111 • TheCottagesGJ.org

ASK THE OLD BAG

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

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

When you choose Hilltop Senior Living Communities, your money stays right here in our community, supporting a nonprofit that has provided Western Colorado with compassionate and comprehensive human services for over 70 years.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | ASK THE OLD BAG |

HEALTHY GEEZER

Why can’t my doctor tell what’s wrong with me? A PERSON WITH CELIAC DISEASE MAY HAVE NO I SYMPTOMS, BUT THEY ARE STILL AT RISK. receive many questions from readers looking for help in diagnosing their health problems. As a journalist, I’m extremely careful to avoid giving personal medical advice. Only a doctor who has examined a patient is qualified to diagnose, and even they have trouble figuring out what’s wrong with patients sometimes. Celiac disease is a good example of a condition that’s hard to diagnose since some of its symptoms contradict each other. It’s also commonly underdiagnosed because some symptoms can be confused with those of irritable bowel syndrome, iron-deficiency anemia, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, intestinal infections, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Celiac disease is a digestive ailment that damages the small intestine and interferes with nutrition.

People with celiac disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. This can result in gas, abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea and constipation, weight fluctuations, bone or joint pain, mouth sores, tooth discoloration, skin rash and more. It’s estimated that about 1 in 100 people has celiac disease, but more concrete data isn’t available since Americans aren’t routinely screened for it. Many health care professionals aren’t knowledgeable about the disease and only a small number of U.S. laboratories are equipped to test for it. Celiac disease runs in families. Sometimes celiac begins after surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, viral infection, or severe emotional

stress. Symptoms can develop at any age, and although celiac disease can affect anyone, it tends to be more common in people of European descent. A person with celiac disease may have no symptoms, but they are still at risk. The longer they go without treatment, the greater their chance of developing complications such as malnutrition, calcium loss, intolerance to dairy products, cancer, and nervous system disorders. The only treatment for celiac dis-

ease is to follow a gluten-free diet. For most people, this diet will stop symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent further harm. Fortunately, there are gluten-free substitutes for most problematic foods, including breads, pastas and cereals. Gluten is also found in many processed foods in addition to cosmetics, household cleansers, stamp and envelope adhesive, medicines and vitamins. See your doctor if you notice or experience any of the signs or symptoms common to celiac disease. ■

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DEAR PHARMACIST

Lower cholesterol without “drug mugging”

or years, we’ve heard that statins are the gold standard pharmacological treatment for high cholesterol. But there’s more to the story. Statins, which were introduced when I was a young pharmacist in the 1980s, do not sweep out the cholesterol in your blood vessels. They only block the internal production of it by your body, and in doing so, can lead to devastating drug mugging side effects. “Drug mugging” is when a medication causes nutrient depletion in the body, which statins happen to do to ubiquinol, the activated form of CoQ10. First, I want to note that I don’t think cholesterol is bad at all. It’s not cholesterol itself that leads to heart attacks. Instead, it’s the ratios of certain particles that need to be kept in a healthy balance. There are many particles of cholesterol, but the two most famous ones are LDL and HDL. To keep this superbly simple, you want to keep the HDL level high and reduce the amount of LDL. Even though I prefer natural approaches to medical problems, there’s a new therapeutic option for high cholesterol: a category of medications called PCSK9 inhibitors. The PCSK9 are a new class of LDL-lowering medications given by self-injection every two weeks. As humans, we carry a gene called PCSK9, which stands for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9. The PCSK9 gene provides the blueprint for our bodies to build a protein that shares the same name. This protein regulates the amount

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THE PCSK9 ARE A NEW CLASS OF LDL-LOWERING MEDICATIONS GIVEN BY SELF-INJECTION EVERY TWO WEEKS. of cholesterol that floats around in your bloodstream. The new drugs work to improve your liver’s ability to remove cholesterol from the blood. They do this by inhibiting PCSK9, preventing the destruction of LDL receptors on your cells. Having more LDL receptors leads to less LDL cholesterol in your blood. There are two medications in this category: Praluent® (chemical name: Alirocumab) and Repatha® (chemical name: Evolocumab) The “cumab” drugs (my nickname for them) reduce LDL cholesterol by about 60 percent, which, in turn, could reduce the risk of heart attack, chest pain, unstable angina and stroke by up to 15 percent. Cumabs are stronger than statins. They do not interfere with CoQ10 like the statins, because they reduce LDL cholesterol at the level of the receptor site, not by inhibiting production. Cholesterol isn’t the only thing you want to pay attention to when it comes to your heart health. You’ll also want a doctor to evaluate your homocysteine levels, CRP, Lp(a) and blood pressure. Age and hormone status matters as well. Insufficient levels of DHEA, estrogen and testosterServing one all affect your cardiovascular Mesa, Garfield, system. ■

DEAR PHARMACIST BY SUZY COHEN For more articles and advice, sign up for Suzy’s newsletter at www.suzycohen.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Don’t fall for your old diet tricks By Sandra Gordon

ittle white lies aren’t so bad when you’re gifted a not-sogreat sweater. But when it comes to your diet, honesty is the best policy. The small food fibs you tell yourself (“I need to eat this macaroni and cheese to get through the pandemic”) can sabotage your health goals. Here’s a few common examples of diet self-deceptions, and how to combat them. • “I’m not losing weight because my metabolism is slow.” Your resting metabolic rate—the rate you burn calories during inactivity—could be to blame for those stubborn pounds. But, chances are you’re just eating more than you think and not exercising enough. With any weight gain, behavior is often a big component. Still, why not test the theory? Some physicians’ offices (and some

upscale gyms) offer an indirect calorimeter to check your metabolic rate. This simple test, which costs $50-$100, measures the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide going in and out of your lungs and determines your caloric output. An abnormal (slow) result could signal a thyroid problem or a sleep disorder. However, it’s more likely that in order to budge the scale you’ll need to track calories with a food diary, get a good night’s sleep and exercise more to build muscle—the engine that drives metabolism. Doing all of those things may raise your metabolic rate by 5 to 10 percent, or an extra 100 calories per day. • “I can just eyeball my portion sizes to gauge calories.” “Most of us aren’t good at perceiving how much we eat,” said Sandria Godwin, RD. In her research, when

subjects judged portion sizes just by looking at them, they underestimated amounts by an average of 23 percent. If you’re serious about controlling portions, don’t guesstimate. Weigh meat with a food scale (aim for 3 ounces per meal) and measure everything else with teaspoons, tablespoons and measuring

cups for at least a week, tracking it all in a food diary. After that, you can eyeball amounts. But go back to weighing and measuring every few months to tweak your portion-size perception. “Portions tend to get a little bigger and bigger over time,” Godwin said. To outwit your appetite, use a

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

LIQUID CALORIES COUNT JUST AS MUCH, IF NOT MORE, THAN SOLID FOOD CALORIES DO. 10-inch dinner plate so portions don’t look too small and tempt you to return for seconds. Of course, you can’t exactly haul this equipment to restaurants, so keep eating out to a minimum or just eat less of what you’re given. Because no matter how much you think you ate, you’ve probably eaten more. • “My body needs a detox every once in a while.” In reality, you actually need to detox every day. The good news is, you don’t need to do anything special beyond eating a healthy diet. “Your body is well-endowed with the apparatus to take care of the job,” said David L. Katz, MD, co-author of “How to Eat: All Your Food and Diet Questions Answered.” Your liver, spleen, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract constantly filter toxins out of your system. They break down metabolic gunk such as fat molecules, spent red blood cells, urea (a byproduct of protein metabolism) and other waste products, all of which are expelled through poop, pee or sweat. To keep these systems in good working order and so that you can continuously detox more efficiently, load up on fruits and veggies. Their high water and fiber content speeds waste through your GI tract. Get plenty of fluids, too, so that your kidneys can flush water-soluble byproducts through your system. You’re hydrated enough if you urinate every three hours and it’s pale or clear and odorless. Regular exercise also helps keep your blood circulating through your arteries and delivers a robust supply of blood to your spleen, liver and kidneys. Meanwhile, avoid toxins by not smoking and steering clear of foods high in refined sugar and saturated and trans fat.

• “Calories don’t count if I drink them.” The truth is, liquid calories count just as much, if not more, than solid food calories do. Unfortunately, they are less nutritionally satisfying. “When people drink milk, fruit juice, Pepsi, Red Bull, a smoothie, or whatever beverage, they don’t compensate for those calories by reducing their food intake,” said Barry M. Popkin, Ph.D, a professor at UNC Gillings School of Global Health. In fact, adults down an average of 533 beverage calories per day, which has doubled over the past 30 years. Aside from nonfat milk to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, avoid drinking calories. Stick to water or noncaloric beverages like unsweetened iced tea between meals. Additionally, realize that when you do drink something caloric, including alcohol, it won’t fill you up but it will fill you out. That is, unless you exercise more or make a conscious effort to account for the calories—for example, saying to yourself “this is lunch” while sipping a smoothie. • “I’ll eat less if I skip breakfast.” A major study analyzing the breakfast patterns of 12,316 men and women for five years found that breakfast skippers were more likely to have a higher body mass index than breakfast eaters. The breakfast eaters also set a healthier tone for the rest of the day, consuming fewer foods high in fat and sugar. But the study also found you’ll only get that morning advantage if you start your day off with foods low in energy density, such as unsweetened hot or cold cereal, whole-grain bread, fresh fruit or nonfat milk. Otherwise, breakfast can backfire. Your overall daily calorie tally will be higher if you feast on the likes of pastries and breakfast sandwiches, which can lead to weight gain. ■

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LAUGHING MATTERS

LAUGHING MATTERS NUMBER JOKES Submitted by Thelma & Nathan Humphrey The guys got together once a week to tell jokes, but they decided it took a long time to tell them all. So, they decided to assign a number to each joke. The next time they got together, someone said “Number 17,” and everyone laughed and laughed. Another said number 54. Laugh, laugh! Then a third man said “Number 22.” No laughter. He said, “I don’t understand! No one laughed!” So one fellow explained, “Well, some can tell a joke. Some don’t know how!”

GETTING OLD Submitted by Jan Weeks • Having plans sounds like a good idea, until you have to put on clothes and leave the house. • It’s weird being the same age as old people.

• When I was a kid, I wanted to be older…this is not what I expected. • It’s probably my age that tricks people into thinking I’m an adult. • Never sing in the shower! Singing leads to dancing, dancing leads to slipping, and slipping leads to paramedics seeing you naked. So, remember…don’t sing! • I’m at a place in my life where errands are starting to count as going out. • I see people about my age mountain climbing. I feel good getting my leg through my underwear without losing my balance. • I’m at that age where my mind still thinks I’m 29, my humor suggests I’m 12, while my body mostly keeps asking if I’m sure I’m not dead yet. • I don’t always go the extra mile, but when I do it’s because I missed my exit.

• You don’t realize how old you are until you sit on the floor and then try to get back up. • We all get heavier as we get older, because there’s a lot more information in our heads. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

MAD MONEY Submitted by Sally Cliff As a new bride, Aunt Edna moved into the small home on her husband’s ranch. She put a shoe box on a shelf in her closet and asked her husband never to touch it. For 50 years, Uncle Jack left the box alone until Aunt Edna was old and dying. One day when he was putting their affairs in order, he found the box again and thought it might hold something important. Opening it, he found two doilies and $2,500 in cash. He took the box to her and asked about the contents. “My mother gave me that box the day we married,” she explained. “She told me to make a doily to

help ease my frustrations every time I got mad at you.” Uncle Jack was very touched that in 50 years she’d only been mad at him twice. “What’s the $2,500 for?” he asked. “Oh, that’s the money I made selling the doilies.”

GOT WORMS? Submitted by Tim Smith A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon, so he placed four worms into four separate jars. The first worm was put into a container of alcohol, the second was put into a container of cigarette smoke, the third was put into a container of chocolate syrup and the fourth was put into a container of good, clean soil. At the conclusion of the sermon, the minister revealed that the worm in the alcohol was dead, the worm in the cigarette smoke was dead and the worm in chocolate syrup was dead, but the worm in clean soil was alive and well.

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LAUGHING MATTERS The minister asked the congregation, “What did you learn from this demonstration?” Maxine was sitting in the back and quickly said, “If you drink, smoke and eat chocolate, you won’t have worms.”

next, you’re crying, drinking gin for breakfast and missing people you don’t even like.

PICK UP YOUR LIBRARY HOLDS

• If you can’t think of a word, say “I forgot the English word for it.” That way people will think you’re bilingual instead of an idiot. • If 2020 was a math word problem: You’re going down a river at 2 MPH. If your canoe loses a wheel, how much pancake mix would you need to re-shingle your roof?

OBSCENE PHONE CALL Submitted by Bob Breazeale A mad scientist clones one of the devil’s sidekicks. Of course, he’s a bad guy. Mean, rotten and especially talking dirty to everybody. The scientist realizes his mistake, and invents a spray mist that will dissolve the clone. He confronts his creation on the 13th floor (where else?) of a building. As the scientist advances, the creature retreats, stumbles and falls through a window to the sidewalk below and dies. The cops show up and arrest the scientist. The charge? Making an obscene clone fall.

• Life is like a helicopter. I don’t know how to operate a helicopter.

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• Chocolate is God’s way of telling us he likes us a little bit chubby. • The devil whispered to me, “I’m coming for you.” I whispered back, “Bring pizza.” • Marriage Counselor: Your wife says you never buy her flowers. Is that true? Husband: I never knew she sold flowers.

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FROM THE MOUTH OF BABES

Submitted by Jan Weeks • At what point can we just start using 2020 as profanity? As in, “That’s a load of 2020” or “What in the 2020?” • I’m getting tired of being part of a major historical event. • Don’t be worried about your smartphone or TV spying on you. Your vacuum cleaner has been collecting dirt on you for years. • Coronacoaster (noun): the ups and downs of a pandemic. One day you’re loving your bubble, working out, baking banana bread and going for long walks. The

Submitted by Martha Williams While working for an organization that delivers lunches to elderly shut-ins, I used to take my 4-yearold granddaughter on my afternoon rounds. She was unfailingly intrigued by the various appliances of old age, particularly the canes, walkers and wheelchairs. One day, I found her staring at a pair of false teeth soaking in a glass. As I braced myself for the inevitable barrage of questions, she merely turned and whispered, “The tooth fairy will never believe this!” ■

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Heart to Heart, Art of Reflection VOA exhibit helps seniors express feelings during pandemic

olunteers of America (VOA) and Valley Manor Care Center in Montrose focused on a unique community project to support mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Supplying 3-inch wooden hearts to several community organizations, Valley Manor’s admissions and marketing director, Debra Hayre, asked members to decorate the hearts in a way that expressed

their personal feelings during the pandemic. Schools, churches, senior living facilities, police departments and hospitals were among the organizations to turn in their hearts, which were weatherproofed and attached to a fence on the north side of the care center at 1401 S. Cascade Ave. “The heart shape represents our feelings and symbolizes love, which is something we all could use

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a bit more of right now,” said VOA Marketing Director Erin Berge. The idea behind the display, named “Heart to Heart: Art of Reflection,” stemmed from a Facebook post about a similar exhibit in Minnesota. Berge adapted the idea to fit Valley Manor and the Montrose community. “I loved the outreach aspect and thought it could also help us promote National Resident’s Rights Month, which occurs annually in October,” she said. Residents’ Rights Month honors residents living in all long-term care facilities and raises awareness of dignity, respect and rights of each resident. “I’ve always loved making art and seeing how other people use art to express themselves,” said Berge. “It felt like a good way to bring awareness to our local residents, their rights, and to support their feelings and mental health.” The project will remain on the

fence until the end of the pandemic as a reminder of the many acceptable ways to feel when challenged with drastic change. “It illustrates how we as a collective whole are experiencing and interacting during this particular time,” said Berge. “We hope many will have found it helpful and therapeutic.” Passersby can observe the various messages and artistic interpretations outside of Valley Manor Care Center, located at 1401 S. Cascade Ave. in Montrose. To learn more about Volunteers of America and its programs, visit www.voaseniorliving.org or call 1-844-862-4968. ■

Two life-changing words M y 95-year-old father recently shared something very touching with me, and a great reminder for all humankind. When tearfully remembering his 70-year marriage to my mom, who passed away in June, he said, “I just hope I told her ‘thank you’ enough.” After assuring him that she always felt his appreciation, I started to reflect on my own life. Who do I take for granted that a sincere “thank you” could be life-changing? Saying “thank you” doesn’t cost anything or require any special equipment or training. It takes little effort or time, yet it goes a long way as a sign of respect. It builds self-esteem, value and appreciation, and connects relationships. These two simple words have the power to change our entire outlook on life. It puts gratitude where it belongs—at the forefront of our daily interactions. Scientific research and long-term studies have shown that grateful people—those who maintain a positive outlook on life through thankfulness—are healthier and happier. A recent study also indicated that gratitude may reduce the impact that aging has on the brain. Some people make it a daily habit to journal the specifics of what they are thankful for, leading to even greater health benefits. Practice is the best way to unlock the many benefits of gratitude: • Saying “thank you” makes us feel more optimistic. “It’s impossible to be negative

BOOMER BEAT

while we are giving thanks.” - Donald Curtis

• Saying thank you is good for the spirit. “Saying ‘thank you’ is more than good manners. It’s good spirituality.” - Alfred Painter

• Saying “thank you” is good for the heart. “Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” - Jean Baptiste Massieu • Saying “thank you” makes us fully appreciate our blessings. “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” - Oprah Winfrey • Saying “thank you” can be a kind of prayer. “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” - Meister Eckhart • Saying “thank you” connects us to the goodness within others. “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” - Voltaire Two of the very first words we learned as a child were “thank you.” As Boomers, we can all use a reminder that this phrase has never lost its strength or meaning. Use it as a guide to your conversations and as a foundation for relationships. Watch them grow. Let’s commit to thankful hearts in 2021. The benefits of gratitude are real. Saying “thank you” matters. ■

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ALIVE & DIGGING

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aving plants indoors is a wonderful way to experience life around you through winter. Developing a green thumb for potted plants took me longer than learning any other concept in gardening, but finally it clicked. Here are a few tricks I figured out along the way.

SOIL HEALTH With houseplants, you’re zooming in on one living thing and creating an environment in which it can thrive separate from any larger ecosystem. My journey to become someone who can keep a potted plant alive began with recognizing and accepting this concept. I’d always crinkled my nose against fertilizers, wanting to opt for the “natural” path. But potted plants are not in a natural environment. They’re isolated. Because of this reality, adding nutrients is key. I’ve liked using “Kelp Help” and “Mary’s Alpaca Poop” as a microbial food source and plant fertilizer. Additionally, I recommend repotting every year. I like to refresh the soil in my potted plants each year in late summer. It’s a great time to clean up a plant’s roots, add fresh potting soil (natural and organic, with slow-releasing fertilizer), and give it a thorough watering. A little fresh soil goes a long way.

POTS, WATER & AIRFLOW I’ve never been someone who keeps to a watering schedule. For me, watering potted plants is like an ongoing dialogue. Observation has been key in this area of house plant parenting.

• Terracotta, cement, enameled, glass, cardboard or plastic? The type of pot that houses a plant makes a huge difference in how it grows. Every container affects water differently, which dictates the environment for the soil and roots. » Choose terracotta or cement for plants that like to drink a lot of water, since these materials are more breathable. » Enameled (glazed) pots hold water in more and keep the soil moist, so be sure plants in these pots are happy with “wet feet.” » Glass containers are great for carnivorous plants, since they won’t add any nutrients to the soil like terracotta pots will. » I’ve had great success keeping my aloe plants in cardboard pots without saucers underneath, which keeps me from overwatering them. » Plastic will always leach, so save it for non-edible houseplants. • Don’t forget air flow. Both plants and humans do better with a little fresh air. Breeze is an easy thing to forget about inside, but plants are much happier with a little air rustling their leaves, which promotes water evaporation and transpiration, makes their limbs grow stronger, and prevents condensation on leaf surfaces. Air flow also helps keep soils healthier and reduces the

ALIVE & DIGGING growth of fungal infections. • Break through the surface. Watering doesn’t just carry water down to a plant’s roots; it also pulls oxygen down, too. That’s part of why an occasional, more vigorous watering will help keep a plant strong, rather than only ever gently adding water. Potted plants tend to form a layer on the surface of their potting soil, which blocks air flow and oxygenated water from getting down into its roots. Break up this layer of soil with your fingers and you’ll notice instantly how much happier a plant looks.

WHAT ABOUT WORMS? A fun way to create a garden ecosystem inside is by adding composting worms to a windowsill planter box. I’ve had luck with a non-sealed wood planter box that’s half plants, half worm bin. The plant gets to enjoy the worms wiggling through the soil, leaving nutrients and pockets of air in their tracks. And I like to

THE RESOURCEFULNESS THAT COMES FROM MANIPULATING AN INDOOR ENVIRONMENT TO MAKE A PLANT HAPPY IS A FUN CHALLENGE THAT TEACHES ME MORE ABOUT HOW NATURE WORKS IN THE SUBTLEST OF WAYS. think the worms enjoy navigating through the plants’ roots. The idea behind worm composting is that waste is something that doesn’t exist in nature. We created it. Mary Appelhof was a torch bearer of ecological awareness and a full-hearted lover of worms. Her brief and insightful book, “Worms

Eat My Garbage,” is an approachable guide to maintaining a home vermicomposting system—turning

food scraps into rich organic matter using worms. It’s a quick read, and interesting enough even for those not sold on housing worms (though she’s very convincing!). By exploring the process of worm composting, Appelhof invites us to appreciate the fantastic abilities of some of nature’s smallest creatures, and the beauty of life itself. I don’t think I’ll ever be done experimenting with how to bring nature indoors in interesting ways. The resourcefulness that comes from manipulating an indoor environment to make a plant happy is a fun challenge that teaches me more about how nature works in the subtlest of ways. ■

ALIVE & DIGGING BY PAIGE SLAUGHTER Send your questions to Paige in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at paige@fruitionstudio.com

Houseplant Headquarters!

We will close for the holidays and reopen on January 20th! Limited winter hours will be Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12pm-3pm. 755 26 Road, Grand Junction

970.242.7766

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | HOME & GARDEN |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Become a citizen scientist

It’s the perfect “job” for nature enthusiasts and scientist wannabes By Karen Telleen-Lawton

almost trained as a scientist, but was afraid I wouldn’t be able to find the sweet spot in how to spend my workday. You see, I love the outdoors too much to spend days in a windowless lab, yet I’m too wimpy to spend weeks on end camping in a rainy jungle, broiling desert or roiling sea. Fortunately, those of us who have scientist envy are in luck, because the era of citizen science is here.

GET YOUR COUNT ON Citizen science is scientific work undertaken by non-scientists, often in collaboration with scientific institutions. While recently popular, the concept isn’t new. “Gentleman scientists” like Benjamin Franklin and Charles Darwin were generally wealthy landowners whose curios-

24 | JANUARY 2021 |

ity drove them to fund their own scientific investigations. For many of today’s projects, non-scientists can be helpful even if our only skill is counting. Our presence and sheer numbers can increase a project’s geographic scope, lengthen its time frame and broaden the number of species or taxa under study. More eyes and more counters mean a larger data set and more accurate statistics. This is particularly true of bird counts. The Audubon Society runs the Great Backyard Bird Count each February. This count is a four-day event where participants spend as little as 15 minutes to multiple days counting birds and reporting sightings online at www.birdcount. org. You can team up with more experienced birders to get started or bring along an aspiring birder

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS if you’re an old hand. Your “backyard” can be anywhere, from an apartment building to a favorite walk or hike. Likewise, Project FeederWatch turns bird enthusiasts’ love of feeding birds into scientific discoveries. Sponsored by Cornell Lab of Ornithology, FeederWatch is a survey of birds that visit backyards, nature centers, community areas and other locales in North America from November to April. You don’t even need a feeder! All you need is an area with plantings, habitat, water or food that attracts birds. Plus, the schedule is completely flexible. Count birds from the safety and comfort of your home for as long as you like on days of your choosing, then enter your counts online at www.feederwatch.org. The Christmas Bird Count, on the other hand, runs in specific locations around the U.S. and internationally from December 14 to January 5. This year, small socially distanced gatherings of bird lovers met in Grand Junction and Gunnison on December 20. Other counts monitor marine species and wild animals around the world. Gray whale counts off the Pacific coast combine scientific research with education. Observer shifts from mid-February through May keep watch for gray whales swimming to birthing grounds in Baja. Other projects include water monitoring, searching space, measuring night sky brightness and wildlife observation. Plants make great citizen science subjects because—unlike animals, stars and even water—plants usually stay put. Phenology, the study of the timing of leaf production, flowering and reproduction, lends itself well to citizen science. You can tabulate changes from season to season and year to year. It’s particularly rewarding if you have grandkids with whom to share your enthusiasm. Further, you can enhance scientific knowledge by adding your data to a state database or the National Phenology Network.

Check with your local botanical garden, natural history museum, library, college or university for phenology and other citizen science projects. Most educational institutions encourage people of any age or activity level. Projects can range from one-time on-campus projects, to periodic data collection requiring specialized training, to leading projects in the field. Their goals are typically educational, as well as actively protecting the earth’s flora and the diverse life that depends on it.

Hassle-Free Home Ownership for Active Adults (62+)

SHORT-TERM PROJECTS ABROAD As a citizen scientist, you may even have the opportunity to travel for research. Earthwatch—an international environmental nonprofit—hosts projects around the world which allow members of the public, corporate employees and educators to participate in longterm environmental projects for a short time. I’ve gathered, dried and inspected insect frass (look it up!) in a Costa Rican jungle; collected buds, leaves and flowers near Tsavo National Park in east Kenya; recorded pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon and laid out research transects in a Cuban forest. Each project afforded the chance to meet new friends from around the world with similar interests and to help the host country gather important scientific data. The use of citizen scientists increases the depth and breadth of data collected beyond what professional scientists have the funds to do. Of today’s efforts to bring knowledge, passion and experience to support scientific understanding, Franklin and Darwin would be proud!

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START YOUR “CAREER” AS A CITIZEN SCIENTIST To find out more about the Mesa Christmas Bird Count on New Years Day and to participate in future counts, contact the Grand Valley Audubon Society through www. AudubonGV.com. ■

OF GRAND JUNCTION

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS DESIGNED FOR

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Weird and wonderful holidays By Jan Weeks

f you overindulged on December 31, rejoice, because January 1 is both National Hangover Day and National Bloody Mary Day. Those are just a couple of the little-known holidays you’ve probably never heard of or observed before. Here are more weird and wonderful reasons to celebrate in 2021.

daily living skills Activity program designed for successful engagement Mission Statement: Committed to being the leader in providing quality personal services for our Residents, while honoring the experience of aging.

CA LL TO DA Y FO R A P ERS ONA L I ZED T O UR ! 2 5 4- 1 2 33

JANUARY

4 National Trivia Day, founded by Robert L. Birch in 1980, preceded the debut of Trivial Pursuit in 1981. You can tip your trivia hat to Alex Trebek, beloved host of “Jeopardy,” who passed away in November 2020.

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FEBRUARY

APRIL

7 National No Housework and National Beer days. Forget spring cleaning and drink a brewski in the spring sun. 16 Wear Pajamas to Work Day, if you aren’t already. 30 National Honesty Day, as well as National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.

MAY

2 Attention all gardeners! It’s World Gardening Naked Day. 6 International No Diet Day, unless May 2 was too humiliating. 11 National Twilight Zone Day. Cue those four memorable notes and remember: “You’re traveling through another dimension—a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind.”

JUNE

4 National Donut Day, followed by 7 National Chocolate Ice Cream Day and 19 National Martini Day 1 Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day. But save room for... 2 National Tater Tot Day 14 Valentine’s Day, the holiday we all know and love, is also National Organ Donor Day. 17 National Act of Kindness Day. In the midst of COVID and after Mesa View has implemented new protective health a contentious election, that’s and safety measures one we can all get behind. Our community is full of great people like Ruth. Come live where your Thermalcan Temperature Scanner is readily available.20 At noon, go out, raise your independence thrive, and assistance hands over your head, and yell, Touchless Disinfecting Sprayer Learn what a vibrant life at “Hoodie Hoo!” Hoooo knows Solstice at Mesa View is all about! Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization and Air Purification System why? Mention this flyer when booking your

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MARCH

2 National Dr. Seuss Day. Grab Mention this flyer when booking your your favorite grandchild and personalized visit experience and receive a children’s book and read. Schedule your personalized 6 National Day of Unplugging, in-person or Virtual tour today but you probably won’t get mesa view www.SolsticeSeniorLivingMesaView.com your grandkids to go along. www.SolsticeSeniorLivingMesaView.com 601 Horizon Place • Grand Junction, 81506 Day gives you an 9 CONapping (970) 241-0772 601 Horizon Place • Grand Junction, CO 81506 CHANGE IS excuse to relax.

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GRAPEVI NE

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21 Don’t let your cell phone overheat on National Selfie Day.

JULY

6 World Kissing Day and National Fried Chicken Day 17 Wrong Way Corrigan Day. In 1938, Douglas Corrigan flew from Long Beach, California to Brooklyn, New York. Instead of returning to California, he flew to Ireland. He claimed it was a navigational error, but maybe he knew an Irish lass in need of a kiss!

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

AUGUST

7 National Mustard Day 5 National Oyster Day

6 Free your feet on National Wiggle Your Toes Day. 14 Get thrifting on National Garage Sale Day. 27 National Just Because Day

SEPTEMBER

1 National No Rhyme Nor Reason Day (as if to prove there’s a holiday for everything) 3 National Lazy Moms Day idles in. 6 National Read a Book Day, which pairs well with tomorrow’s 7 National Beer Lovers’ Day. 12 Encouragement Day. We can all use some of that! 19 Don’t forget to Talk Like a Pirate. Arrgh, matey! 22 Give the auto a rest on CarFree Day and eat a second breakfast to celebrate Hobbit Day. 25 Singles can hunt for ghosts on National Singles Day and National Ghost Hunting Day. 28 National Voter Registration Day

OCTOBER

1 International Coffee Day and National Homemade Cookie Day give you two reasons to smile for World Smile Day. 6 National Plus Size Appreciation Day supports those of us who aren’t a size 00 and 16 years old. It’s also National Mad Hatter Day. 16 Bring out the Scrabble board for National Dictionary Day. 27 National Black Cat Day 29 National Frankenstein Day (for non-morning persons, we celebrate this every a.m.) 31 Halloween is also National Magic Day, National KnockKnock Joke Day, Caramel Apple Day and Doorbell Day.

NOVEMBER

1 National Author’s Day and National Family Literacy Day 4 Ladies can get on board with National Men Make Dinner Day. 8 National Harvey Wallbanger Day (Does anyone still drink those?) 13 World Kindness Day, so be nice like Li’l Abner and ask a guy Can CompassMedical Medical Center helphelp with?with What What Can Compass Center out on Sadie Hawkins Day. Spinal Decompression Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis 19 The Great American Smoke- Spinal Decompression Neck and Back Pain Headaches Neck and Back Pain Headaches out might make you nervous, Sciatica Fibromyalgia so keep your hands and mind Sciatica Neuropathy Fibromyalgia Degenerative Disc Disease occupied with National Play Neuropathy Degenerative Disc Disease Joint Pain/Knee Pain Automobile Accidents Monopoly Day. Joint Pain/Knee Automobile Accidents Weight LossPain

Compass Medical Center variety of services Compass Medical Centeroffers offers aavariety of services to help! to help Regenerative Medicine Regenerative Medicine Joint Injections Joint Injections Spinal Decompression Spinal Decompression Weight Loss Weight Loss Medical Centerisis CompassCompass Medical Center devoted to providing access 25 Blasé Day. I feel indifferent devoted to providing access to excellent care in the Grand and excellent care to the about it. Valley. We are a Physical and We are a 26 Buy Nothing Day is held theGrand Valley. Regenerative Medicine Clinic, Physical and Regenerative day after Thanksgiving. Can you offering the most advanced Medicine Clinic, offering the do it? holistic health care. most advanced holistic DECEMBER health care. In addition to chiropractic, 4 National Cookie Day and Nadecompression and Regenerative medicine will rehabilitation services, tional Sock Day help people suffering from regenerative medicine helps 5 Bathtub Party Day. Maybe a varietypeople of inflammatory suffering from a this should follow Gardening and degenerative conditions, variety of inflammatory and Naked Day! in addition to Chiropractic, degenerative conditions. 8 Pretend to be a Time Traveler Decompression and RehabiliDay (You’re a time machine to ALTERNATIVE TO tation services. grandkids!) JOINT REPLACEMENT 10 Dewey Decimal System Day Last year inTO the US, there ALTERNATIVE JOINT 14 Monkey Day, which is pretty were 3.5 million total joint REPLACEMENT replacements and many ambiguous (buy one as a pet, Last year in the US, there millions of other joint surgeries. or fool around?) were 3.5 million total joint In increasing numbers, people 15 Cat Herders Day. Good luckreplacements and many milare seeking non-surgical with that! lions of other joint surgeries. alternatives to joint surgery. 16 Barbie and Barney Backlash In increasing numbers, people Regenerative medicine therapy Day, because sometimes parare seeking non-surgical is a great option for people ents need a break. alternatives to joint surgery.

Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Medical Services Medical Services Chiropractic Chiropractic Massage Massage

who have been toldmedicine they need theraRegenerative joint replacement surgery. py is a great option for people It can potentially regenerate who have been told they need your joint and help you avoid joint replacement surgery. surgery. It can potentially regenerate your and help you avoid We usejoint umbilical cord and birth tissue donated from jointproducts replacement surgery. carefully screened We use ana umbilical cord mothers from highly tissue /laboratory blood product from respected that a highly respected lab that capture the greatest captures all the greatest regenerative properties that would otherwise beproperties discarded. of this regenerative The proprietarydiscarded method of tissue. otherwise isolating growth factors, cells, Their proprietary method extracellular matrix and a of isolating growth factors, variety of other healing cells and stem cells gives properties, give the patient the thepossible patient the from bestapossible best benefits benefits from a Regenerative Medicineregenerative product. medicine product. The use of The use of Regenerative Medicine has shown this to stem cells and growth factors be oneshown of the best therapeutic has them to be one of methods to help aid in tissue methods the best therapeutic healing and repair. to help aid in tissue healing and repair.

18 National Wreaths Across America Day. 21 Yule (Winter Solstice) and Phileas Fogg Wins a Wager Day Let us help you express your full health potential! 23 National Regifting Day 2478 Patterson Rd Suite 17 Grand Junction, CO 81505 31 National Champagne Day, Let us help you express your full health potential! National Make Up Your Mind 985-4506 2478www.compassmedicalco.com Patterson Rd Suite 17 Grand Junction Day, National No Interruptions Day. Maybe to get ready www.compassmedicalco.com for National Hangover and Bloody Mary days? ■

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 |

TRAVEL

Sleep among history Historic hotels offer a glimpse into the past By Victor Block

Above: The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, retains the tasteful traces that made it a popular mountain retreat for wealthy clientele.

ow would you like to spend a night or more at a hotel once frequented by Clark Gable, Ingrid Bergman, Marilyn Monroe and a long list of other Hollywood luminaries? Or, snuggle down under the sheets at a former stagecoach stop along the famous Chisholm Trail which played host to Civil War calvary commander George Custer and famous outlaw Jesse James? A hotel can be much more than just a place to catch a good night’s sleep. Properties across the U.S. offer stories of famous guests, accommodations that range from laid back to lavish, and opportunities to snooze in intriguing chapters of American history.

BATHE IN LUXURY An Arizona Italian Renaissance-style building was the go-to place for Hollywood celebrities when it opened in 1928. The Hotel San Carlos was both the first high-rise hotel in Phoenix and the first in the state to have elevators (which were hand-operated). Marilyn Monroe and other movie stars and dignitaries who frequented the Hotel San Carlos over the years are memorialized by copper stars set in the sidewalk. Today, hotel guests enter the same limestone-tile lobby with its original carved crown moldings, elaborate crystal chandeliers and other architectural features that once greeted famous movie stars.

The modest but comfortable Stagecoach Inn also provided lodgings for 19th-century notables passing through Texas.

28 | TRAVEL | JANUARY 2021 |

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Some historic hotels were designed to be destinations themselves because of their opulent decor and furnishings. From 1913 to the late 1930s, the Grand Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana, offered guests the height of luxury. Recently reopened as the Omni Severin, it retains touches of its elegant past with a dramatic marble stairway, an immense Austrian crystal chandelier and original mahogany dressers located on each elevator landing. The Hotel Du Pont in Wilmington, Delaware, was built during America’s Gilded Age to rival the finest hotels in Europe in stylishness and beauty. Rich woodwork, mosaic and terrazzo floors, gilded hallways and other adornments were created

by artisans from France and Italy who toiled for two and a half years to make the building a monument to outstanding craftsmanship. Opened in 1913, the result of their efforts serves as a reminder of the U.S.’ decades-long period of economic development starting in the 1870s. Likewise, skilled artisans were brought from Europe to build Colorado Springs’ famous hotel, The Broadmoor. Opened in 1918, it was hailed as one of the best resorts in the U.S., featuring an 18-hole golf course and hosting renowned Americans like Charles Lindburgh. Today, the prestigious historic destination continues to attract tourists to the Pikes Peak region. Some well-heeled travelers who

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak has hosted VIP guests as diverse as Theodore Roosevelt, Charles Dickens and P.T. Barnum.

TRAVEL

If your Medicare Advantage plan is leaving the area, Humana can help Left: The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs hosted renowned Americans like Charles Lindburgh. Right: The Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs was built in 1893 by silver baron, Walter Devereux.

could afford to overnight in the lap of luxury chose to “take the waters” at health spas that were built near natural springs. The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, was one such property. The massive stone structure perched on a hilltop is reminiscent of castles in Europe, earning the epithet “castle in the air.” Surrounded by acres of lovely gardens and forested walking trails, the Crescent Hotel retains the tasteful traces that made it a popular mountain retreat for wealthy clientele. Another favorite mountain retreat is Glenwood Springs’ Hotel Colorado, built in 1893 by silver baron Walter Devereux. His “Grande Dame” featured elegant attractions like a European-style spa, Victorian garden, bird sanctuary and a stunning indoor waterfall. The hotel has also hosted notables like the Unsinkable Molly Brown, and continues to offer access to Colorado’s many outdoor adventures and activities.

COZY HISTORIC INNS The setting was less sumptuous at a Texas rest stop built along the Chisholm Trail in 1861 to accommodate ranchers and drovers herding cattle to Kansas. Over time, the modest but comfortable Stagecoach Inn provided lodgings for 19th-century notables who were passing through Texas. Stagecoaches holed up for the night at quarters in Colorado that are older than the state itself. Following its debut in 1874, the Cliff House at Pikes Peak was a stage-

coach stop along the gold mining route from Colorado Springs to Leadville. Later, it became a military barracks and eventually hosted VIP guests as diverse as Theodore Roosevelt, Charles Dickens and P.T. Barnum. Many rooms offer guests views of towering Pike’s Peak and its surrounding foothills. Equally inviting in its own way is a personal favorite located in a quaint village among the lakes and mountains of western Maine. The Rangeley Inn, set in a tiny town with the same name, opened as the Rangeley Tavern in 1909. A visit to the sprawling wooden structure provides both an introduction to the surrounding area and a walk back in time. Vintage photographs hung on the Inn’s walls depict varying aspects of local history and lore. These include its long-held reputation as a freshwater fishing mecca, the narrow-gauge railroad that carried visitors from Boston, New York and Philadelphia back in the day, and the steamboats that completed the journey to the large hotels that once lined the shore of Rangeley Lake. Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic preservation, features over 300 properties from around the country that have “faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place and architectural integrity.” All are recognized as having historical significance and offer exceptional accommodations and amenities. To find and learn more about the historic hotels near you, visit www. historichotels.org. ■

You can enjoy all the benefits of Original Medicare and more—like:

• $2,000 dental coverage annually for exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings and more

• No Rx deductible • $75 over-the-counter allowance every three months*

It can be pretty upsetting when your health plan leaves town. But Humana’s here and can help you get a Medicare Advantage plan that meets your needs. Remember, you have until February 28, 2021, to choose a Medicare Advantage plan.

Call a licensed Humana sales agent

PATTI ZAPF 970-301-8752 (TTY: 711) www.humana.com/pzapf Fb.me/pattizapfhumana

*Available only through participating retailers and Humana’s mail-order pharmacy, Humana Pharmacy®; always consult with your doctor or medical provider before taking over-the-counter medications. Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. Applicable to HumanaChoice H5216-223 (PPO). Newspaper advertising supplement to Senior Beacon. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-320-1235 (TTY：711) 。

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H5216-223-000-2021

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FAITH

Rosemont BAPTIST CHURCH

Turning Montrose Around

S Townsend Ave E Niagara Rd

RosemontBaptist.org

Who is my neighbor? By Vic Stinemetze Living Stone Church

as 2020 really come to an end? For many, January couldn’t get here fast enough. Sunday Bible Study (all ages) 9:30 9:15 am 1598 E Niagara Rd Much has happened this year. Montrose, CO 81401 Worship Service 10:45 am Worship Service It started with an impeachment Office: 970.249.4887 hearing in the Senate. Then the COVID-19 virus hit our shores. All of a sudden, our economy was shut down and we were asked to stay Service Times Service Times home to slow its spread. Borders Celebration Service Celebration Service closed. Schools and non-essential 10:00 am Sunday businesses closed. Churches and 10:00 am Sunday meetings moved to virtual services Family Night Family Night and platforms like Zoom. pm Wednesday 6:30 pm 6:30 Wednesday During 2020, we also saw demonstrations as groups of people marched for social justice reform. Then, we watched a 515 S. Dr. Hillcrest contentious Dr. 515 S. Hillcrest election process where Montrose, Montrose, CO 81401CO 81401 nearly half our country voted for Where Passion 970-249-4319one presidential candidate and ere Passion for God and for God and 970-249-4319 for People meet…. mpassion Compassion for People meet…. half for the other. Yes, 2020 will go COME CROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! down as a historic year. But what about 2021? Will the COMECROW CROWWITH WITHUS USININCHRISTIAN CHRISTIANDISCIPLESHIP! DISCIPLESHIP! COME divisions that rocked our nation COME Weare...CROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! continue? Will the church of AmerCOME CROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! Weare Weare ......Family-oriented ica remain segregated and divided WeareFamily-oriented ...Family-oriented by sectarian ideologies and beliefs, Weare...Family-oriented Inspirational Inspirational Inspirational as it has in the past? Family-oriented Relational Inspirational Relational Relational Jesus prayed of his followers in Inspirational Relational Sacredspace space Sacred John 17, “I pray that they will all be Relational Sacred space The place for you 9:00 am contemporary Praise service one, just as you and I are one—as Theplace place you The forforyou contemporary Praise service 9:009:00 am am contemporary Praise service Sacred space The place forChurch you 10:00 am Christian Education (all ages) 9:00 am Praise service 10:00 amcontemporary Christian Education (all ages) 9:00 am Contemporary Praise Service 10:00 am Christian Education (all ages) United Methodist you are in me, Father, and I am in United Church 11:00 Traditional service with Choir 10:00 am Christian Education (allservice ages) UnitedMethodist Methodist Church The place for you 11:00 am Traditional service with Choir 9:00 amam contemporary Praise United Methodist Church 11:00 11:00 am Traditional Service with Choir 11:00 am Traditional service with Choir am Traditional service with Choir you...May they experience such per10:00 am Christian Education (all ages) th First United MethodistChurch, Church, St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org United Methodist Church First United Methodist 5thth5St. &Live White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org th 11:00 am Traditional service with Choir No in-person worship. stream services at: fumcgj.org First United Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org United Methodist MethodistChurch, Church,5 5St.St.& White & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org fect unity that the world will know First United Methodist Church, 5th St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” In Luke chapter 10, a religious leader asked Jesus, “What must I do to have eternal life?” Jesus reSunday study: 9:00 a.m. plied by asking him, “What does the Sunday worship: 10:15 a.m. law of Moses say? The man recites the scriptures that say we are to love the Lord our God with all of First Baptist Church our heart, soul, mind and strength, of Grand Junction and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Jesus replied, “You are right. 720 Grand Avenue Do this and you will live.” 970-242-5645 But then the religious leader followed up with the question, “Who Visit our website: fbcgj.org is my neighbor?” Jesus responded

FAMILY

FELLOWSHIP

COMMUNITY

Experience God's loveloveinina atraditional setting. Experience God's traditional setting.

Experience God's love in a traditional setting.

30 | FAITH | JANUARY 2021 |

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with a parable—a story about a man who was badly beaten, robbed and left by the side of the road to die. A priest came by, but moved to the other side of the road and passed on by. A temple assistant came by and looked, but likewise passed on the other side of the road. Finally, a Samaritan man came by. Jews in Jesus’ day thought Samaritans were unclean and to be avoided. But, this Samaritan man stopped, cleaned up the injured Jew’s wounds, applied medicine, loaded him onto his donkey and took him to the nearest town. He took care of him through the night and then gave the innkeeper money, asking him to take care of the man until he was healed. Finally, Jesus asked the religious leader which one was the better neighbor. “The Samaritan man,” he answered. Jesus replied, “Yes. Now go and do the same.” Who is my neighbor? You are my neighbor. The person down the street is my neighbor. Those with different ideologies and with different skin colors are my neighbors. Those in different socio-economic situations are my neighbors. Those that are homeless. Those who are sick. Those who are emotionally distraught and those who are mentally ill. Even those in prison. All of them are my neighbors. I am to love them as I love myself. If we could each come to this mindset, there would be no division in America. ■

TALKING DIGITAL

Online classifieds: Buy and sell with ease

y family has been decluttering since March. In addition to the lockdown, three of our four kids moved out. We seized on these life developments as the opportunity to eliminate 20-plus years of build-up. Most of the stuff went to the garbage or was donated. But, a few things had too much monetary value. While some people like to sell items on sites like eBay, I prefer to sell locally on online classified sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. The final selling price may not be as high, but I don’t have to figure out shipping or pay a percentage of the sale to the host site. Both Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist occasionally charge, but most items can be listed for free. Facebook Marketplace requires a Facebook account. For Craiglist, you can both list and view ads without an account, but if you take the time to set up a free Craigslist account, you can track your ads and buyers can communicate with you easier. Facebook Marketplace allows you to list items for either local or national buyers, whereas Craigslist is designed to be local. For example, Grand Junction’s Craigslist section is westslope.craigslists.org, but Colorado’s mountain cities list items on rockies.craigslist.org. While print classifieds (like the BEACON’s) can help you sell your items meant for a specific

IN MANY WAYS, ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS ARE LIKE HAVING A 24-HOUR GARAGE SALE OR THRIFT STORE AVAILABLE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS. demographic, online classified ad sites offer many advantages. There’s typically no word limit for the description, and you can add several pictures of the item you’re selling. Plus, communication is easy, as most ads allow you to contact the seller just by pressing a button. Buyers can also search the classified ad site for keywords. Despite their benefits, online classifieds are also quirky, and there’s an online etiquette that impacts whether you successfully sell or buy an item.

SELLING ETIQUETTE Before you sell an item, take lots of pictures. Imagine the item in a yard sale. How would people look at it? Take photos inside and outside, of all angles. If there are problems with the item, take photos of those, too. Potential buyers won’t take the time to ask a lot of questions about omitted details; they will just move on to the next item. That means that you need to be thorough, anticipating and answering as many questions as possible. Follow these rules: • Always list the price. • Be honest in your description of

the item and be specific about problems. • You don’t need to say “or best offer”—prices are always negotiable. But you should clarify if your price is firm. • Know how you want to make the transaction ahead of time. Some people are nervous about inviting strangers to their home. The police department has special transaction areas in their parking lot for those who are concerned about safety.

BUYING ETIQUETTE Before you inquire about an item that is for sale, read the ad completely. Sellers often filter out bots and scammers by ignoring messages asking questions that are answered in the ad. Additionally, don’t ask, “Is this item still available?” Instead, ask something like, “I am very interested in your vintage ironing board. I

would like to come and take a look at it tonight or tomorrow. When would be a good time to meet?” This type of message tells the seller that you’re interested, you intend to meet them locally, and you will buy the item if it’s satisfactory. I’ve been able to poach some great deals from other potential buyers simply because I got straight to the point. While everyone else was asking questions, I was driving to the meeting place with cash. Always take the time to test the item out thoroughly. You won’t offend the seller by asking to plug in an electronic device or test ride a bike. Trust your gut, and be willing to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right. Almost every purchase I’ve regretted has been something that I had a gut feeling about, but bought anyway. In many ways, online classifieds are like having a 24-hour garage sale or thrift store available at your fingertips. You can also make some nice spending money by selling stuff you no longer need. Just remember to be careful, and keep in mind that all online classifieds transactions are as is. ■

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

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FINANCE

Finances in a pandemic: Seniors are better off

WE TAUGHT OUR ATM NEW TRICKS 200 Grand Ave. Coming Soon to Fruita

20_BC113_GJ_NEW_ATMLIVE_569x669_AD.indd 1

10/7/20 11:32 AM

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

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

ome call a booming economy a “rising tide that lifts all boats.” We’re experiencing the flip side of that now: a sinking tide that is wreaking havoc unequally. Seniors are bearing the brunt of the crisis as it relates to serious infection and death, but the financial picture for most “boomers and beyond” has been a mixed bag.

SHORT TERM, WE’RE BETTER OFF

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care Hilltop’s Senior Daybreak is a unique day program that keeps seniors with memory loss safe and active while providing their caregivers the flexibility and support they need to care for their loved ones at home. We also offer valuable information and support groups specifically designed for those caring for someone affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Call (970) 241-7798 seniordaybreak.org L O C A L L Y

O W N E D

A N D

32 | FINANCE | JANUARY 2021 |

O P E R A T E D

B Y

H I L L T O P

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Short term, our age group is faring better financially than others. Most seniors are beyond the tethers of salary needs and dependents. Almost 90 percent of people age 65 and older draw Social Security, which provides, on average, onethird of our income. If we’re fortunate, we also have savings, pensions or annuities. These income sources cushion us from the job losses affecting so many of our youngsters. Moreover, Boomers typically

THE BIG EXCEPTION TO LOWER EXPENSES IS HEALTH CARE COSTS, PARTICULARLY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRACTED THE VIRUS. have a lower fixed cost of living. Most of us are free from the financial burdens of children-rearing. We may enjoy providing extras or contributing to our kids’ households, but the buck no longer stops with us. Three-fourths of us own our homes, and the majority have paid off our mortgages. The big exception to lower expenses is health care costs, particularly for those who have contracted the virus. Seniors are better off than other age groups, not only financially but also emotionally, according to an August survey by Edward Jones and Age Wave. Fewer financial burdens are part of that emotional well-be-

FINANCE ing, but we are also benefiting from the family togetherness that the pandemic has foisted upon us. Twothirds of Americans reported that the pandemic has brought their families closer together, even if they’ve had to remain physically distant. If you’re part of the one-third whose family interactions haven’t increased since the pandemic, here’s your gentle nudge to take the initiative. Pick up the phone or get a lesson in video calls like Zoom or FaceTime. This can be a lifesaver, whether you’re infected or just lonesome.

BEWARE LOW INTEREST RATES Boomers are making lemonade from the pandemic’s lemons in the short term, but the long-term outlook for some has become more fragile. One cautionary factor is the financial help that some of us are providing our children who are in more difficult straits. The pandemic has significantly reduced the financial security of a quarter of North Americans, with the greatest impact of job and health coverage loss falling on younger generations. Seeing our children suffer in the pandemic, 24 million Americans are choosing to provide financial support to adult children. A vast majority of retirees admitted they would offer financial support “even if it could jeopardize their own financial future.” It’s hard to argue against helping family, except to remind ourselves that time is no longer on our side to replace savings needed for our later years. For those of us still in the workforce, these times are also scary. The same survey found that more

than 20 million Americans had stopped making regular contributions to retirement savings. Before the pandemic, close to 60 percent of those who had been contemplating retirement felt confident about the move. This confidence figure has now dropped to 46 percent. Nevertheless, we’ve been through hard times before. Most of us have the hard-won experience to keep an emergency fund for such times if we can. The challenging part of the pandemic for us is facing interest rates that are historically low. The investments we’ve safely sequestered in interest-bearing vehicles are yielding next to nothing. Moreover, for our age group, we no longer have the same stretches of time for our investments to recover after a spate of bad years for the market or interest rates. A financial advisor can help you parse through whether your portfolio has the stamina for years of low interest rates. It’s important to estimate whether your budget still works long term with your income stream. Perhaps your cushion is a little smaller, and you need to cancel travel that was already tabled by the pandemic. Perhaps a total budget revamp is necessary if low returns affect the trust funds supporting guaranteed income such as pensions and annuities. Nevertheless, I’m confident it will work out. We’ve been preparing for our later years our entire working lives. By virtue of our ages, we’ve become adaptable to the varying circumstances of life. We may not board the yacht we once envisioned, but our boat will still come in. ■

T S E B

Open for Dine-In

LOCAL

2021

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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

Got Medicare questions?

Medicare Resource Center provides unbiased clarity By Melinda Mawdsley

estern Slope seniors can expect at least one thing in their mailboxes every fall: Medicare fliers. Each year, Medicare’s open enrollment period falls between October and December, and many adults aged 64 and older find they have questions. Fortunately, that’s where the Medicare Resource Center can help. Located at 327 N. Seventh St. in Grand Junction, the Medicare Resource Center—as its name suggests—is a reliable, unbiased resource for men and women with Medicare questions. “Our specialty is really just understanding the Medicare options people have available to them and being able to communicate that to them,” said Medicare Resource Center Sales Director Joe Barrows. That’s especially important because potential health care costs are usually the biggest financial risk after retirement. In a nutshell, Medicare has two components: Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. According to Barrows, the plans are pretty straight-forward, but Medicare simply doesn’t cover all medical costs annually. That’s where supplemental plans come in—and there are many options. Plus, the list of providers who are “in network” for each plan can change annually, which affects coverage, and ultimately costs. The more than a dozen agents at the Medicare Resource Center work with clients to confirm in-network providers, break down supplemental plan differences, and get at the core of what each person needs for his or her coverage—whether that’s prescription coverage, more dental coverage

THE MORE THAN A DOZEN AGENTS AT THE MEDICARE RESOURCE CENTER WORK WITH EACH CLIENT TO CONFIRM IN-NETWORK PROVIDERS AND BREAK DOWN SUPPLEMENTAL PLAN DIFFERENCES. or even a higher premium plan for more overall coverage. Each person is unique, and there are plans to meet people where they are. “A lot of folks we deal with are savvy and can do that research,” Barrows said. “They call us to verify the steps they’ve taken and want to talk to us to make sure they aren’t missing something, or to get confirmation that what they’ve come up with is reality.” Grand Junction’s Dan Griffin is one of those “savvy” people when it comes to understanding Medicare. Griffin typically makes decisions on his Medicare coverage as close to mid-October as possible when enrollment opens. In 2020, however, things were behind schedule and providers he used had not yet

34 | BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT | JANUARY 2021 |

committed to a supplemental plan he wanted. “Once you select a plan, you want to make sure the doctors are providers for those,” Griffin said. Luckily, Griffin knew Barrows, and sought out the Medicare Resource Center for the first time this past fall. “Joe is so helpful,” Griffin said. “I found it easier and better to just use his expertise as opposed to me trying to wade through the different plans. I was able to ascertain some of the differences by studying them, but I think it’s just helpful to have someone who that’s their business.” “Most people don’t want to be an expert in Medicare plans,” Barrows added. “They want to get the insurance in place and then forget about it.”

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Each Medicare Resource Center agent is an independent contractor and not an employee of any particular insurance provider. They work to get Western Slope clients the coverage they want and need. Age 64 ½ is a great time to learn more about Medicare options. Clients can communicate with Medicare Resource Center agents via computer and phone. The Center is also open for in-person meetings, featuring sanitizing stations, a filtration system and daily staff symptom screenings. “I love dealing and working with folks anywhere from 60 years to 102,” said Barrows. “I enjoy helping people figure (their options) in a non-pressured environment where it really is helping. After you’ve done that, they really mean it when they say, ‘Thank you.’” ■

Did you lose your Medicare Plan? Medicare Resource Center can help

We are a collective of local, independent insurance agents helping Seniors with Medicare options. We offer Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Part D Prescription Drug Plans from multiple insurance carriers.

Call a licensed sales agent at 970-243-3100 (TTY:711)

327 North 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

MedicareResourceCenter.com is a non-government resource privately owned and operated by Benefits Life, Inc. MedicareResourceCenter.com is not associated with or endorsed by Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or any other government agency.

MeSa County

CALENDAR

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm details before attending. January 1-31

Polar Bear Outdoor Drinking Club

January 9

Mindful Life Program offers the opportunity to begin anew with meditation practice and guidance from John Bruna and Laura Bartels. Learn more and register online. 4 p.m. | $125 | www.mindful lifeprogram.org/upcoming-event | 633-0163

Roice-Hurst Humane Society offers a monthly, low-cost vaccination clinic by appointment only. All vaccine costs are in addition to a mandatory $16 pet exam fee. Call to claim your spot. 2-5 p.m. | 362 28 Road, Grand Junction | www.rhhumane society.org | 434-7337

Beat cabin fever with the grandkids at Bananas Fun Park’s 12 Buck Tuesday. Cost includes unlimited mini golf, laser tag, laser maze and inflatable playland. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4-8 p.m. | $12 | 2469 Riverside Parkway West, Grand Junction | 241-7529

Mesa County Libraries’ presents a virtual puppet show of “Peter and the Wolf,” perfect to watch or share with the grandkids. 10:30 a.m. | facebook.com/ mesacountylib | 243-4442

Watch a free introduction webinar teaching a few mindfulness practices you can start using right away. 5:30-6:45 p.m. | Free | www. brainbellyheart.com/services#free | 318-0529

January 6

Winter deals at Bananas

Western Region One Source offers a free, beginner-level yoga class for military members, veterans and their families. 2:30-3:30 p.m. | Free | 482 28 Road, Grand Junction | 257-3760

Yoga for Military Members

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction

January 1-3

January 5

January 9

January 7

Grab your polar “beer” and drink outside at Monumental Beer Works, with perks. Enjoy beer on the patio in 45 degrees or colder to earn a punch in your club punch card. Ten punches earn you a free beer! 11 a.m.-8 p.m. | 2575 Hwy 6 & 50, Grand Junction | 462-7411

Virtual New Year Mindfulness Retreat

January 6, 13, 20, 27

Low-cost Vaccination Clinic

Fruita History Online Presentation

Fruita-area residents are invited to join a virtual discussion about Fruita’s history as it pertains to race, equality and acceptance. Register online for Zoom link. 4:30 p.m. | www.mesacounty libraries.org/events | 243-4442

Virtual Puppet Show

January 9

Bangs Canyon Trail Race

Push your running skills to the limit with this no-frills 30K or 60K race, starting and ending at Bangs Canyon Trailhead. Bring your cell phone, map and plenty of fluids. 8:15 a.m. | www.mesa monumentstriders.com | karla@mesamonumentstriders. com

January 6

Culture Fest Interview

Go online to hear Danya Aletebi—a native of Saudi Arabia who migrated to Durango in the 1990s and is an accomplished artist—as a part of Mesa County Libraries’ Culture Fest. 6-7 p.m. | www.youtube.com/ user/yourmcl | 243-4442

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January 9

January 20

Heartbeat Survivors after Suicide Loss hosts an informal time of social sharing over coffee at Four Winds Coffee and Tea. 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Free | 1235 Bookcliff Ave., Grand Junction | 778-9274

Denver Museum of Nature & Science offers a virtual tour of Himalayan landscapes defined by snow, ice and rising global temperatures. Reserve your spot online. 7-8 p.m. | $8 | facebook.com/ DMNSorg/events

Coffee with Heartbeat

January 13

Chronic Pain Educational Webinar

Colorado Injury and Pain Specialists presents a free webinar discussing a new technology shown to significantly improve pain relief through spinal cord stimulation. Please RSVP. 6 p.m. | Free | events.nevro.com/ markewich | 877-201-7104

January 13 & 16

Elements Writing Workshop

Part two of the five-part series studies the element of the spirit in poetry, virtually. All backgrounds and levels are encouraged to put pen to paper and write creatively. Sign up online. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | www. telluridelibrary.org/events

January 15

Appleton Freezer Race

Layer up and run a 4-mile race, starting and ending at Appleton Elementary School. First place runners win $50 cash prize, second and third take home apple pies. 9:45 a.m. | www.mesamonument striders.com | 272-791-5239

It’s It’s worth worth the the drive! drive! It’s worth the drive! Oil chAnge SeRvice Oil chAnge any make orSeRvice model any make orSeRvice model Oil chAnge any makegas or model 9595 engine 95 gas $49. engine synthetic oils slightly higher gas 95 synthetic oils slightly higher engine diesel synthetic95 oils slightly higher engine 95 diesel $99.95 engine No appointment necessary 95 diesel engine No appointment necessary

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a Scarlet Sky” by Mark Sullivan. 6:30-7:30 p.m. | www. mesacountylibraries.org/events | 727-310-0074

Digital Earth Ice

January 20

Culture Fest Interview

Canada-born Meghan Bissonnette is an art historian, art critic and artist now living in Grand Junction who recently earned a degree in cybersecurity. Hear her story as a part of Mesa County Libraries’ Culture Fest. 6-7 p.m. | www.youtube.com/ user/yourmcl | 243-4442

January 21

Grocery Boxes in Palisade

Food Bank of the Rockies provides a drive-through distribution of food boxes for Palisade adults 60 and older every third Thursday of the month. Call to see if you qualify. 1-3 p.m. | 120 North River Road, Palisade | 464-1138

January 22

Chancey Williams

Chancey and the gang from Wyoming are back in western Colorado, and ready to throw down with some country tunes! 7-11:30 p.m. | 2565 American Way, Grand Junction | $25-$50 | 628-4321

January 16

“Love in the Time of COVID”

Opera on Tap Colorado presents “Love in the Time of COVID-19: an Apocalypse Cabaret,” an interactive online show with the theme of “Here’s Hoping.” Register online. 7-8 p.m. | Free | facebook.com/ ootco

January 17

Beyond the Postures

Register for an online, weekly yoga training program with Yoga V & Thrive Yoga in Fruita. Sessions include guided asana practice, meditation, history of yoga and more. 12 p.m. | $550 | www. yogastudiotraining.com/ beyondthepostures | 773-350-3467

““Baby Boomer”” Special “Baby ” Special Baby Boomer BoomerService Special hours

January 23

Beethoven concert Ward Davis in Concert

Watch Ward Davis perform live in Grand Junction at the Mesa Theater. 6 p.m. | Tickets start at $20 | 538 Main St., Grand Junction | 773-1775

January 28

2021 Sundance Film Festival

January 21

Virtual Book Club

Join Mesa County Libraries’ virtual Kiva Book Club to discuss “Beneath

The popular indie film festival goes virtual this year, coming straight to your screens. Create an account and learn more online at www.festival. sundance.org. ■

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Western Slope Concert Series presents “Beethoven: His Kiss to the World” at the Art Center, featuring husband-wife team pianist Kathryn Mietka Farruggia and singer-actor Charles Farruggia. 3-5 p.m. | $15 | 1803 N. Seventh St., Grand Junction | 243-7337

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | CALENDAR |

MeSa County

CLUBS

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

Editor’s note: Some club meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending. American Association of University Women meets monthly. Call for location. 2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 261-2112 Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Grand Junction. Wednesdays & Fridays | 12:45 p.m. | 244-9989 Citizens’ Climate Lobby meets monthly online via Zoom. Check their Facebook page for details and contact info. 250-4832 | grandjunction@ citizensclimatelobby.org | facebook. com/CCLGJ Clifton Book Club meets virtually January 12 to discuss “The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris” by Jenny Colgan. Register online. 2nd Tuesday | 8-9 a.m. | www.mesacountylibraries.org Colorado Archaeological Society Grand Junction meets monthly. Call for location. 2nd Monday | 6:30-9 p.m. | 4334312 | www.meetup.com/ CAS-GJ/events Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library. 3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 434-6936 Cribbage Lite meets at IHOP. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 201-7823 Cups Club meets at The Artful Cup in Grand Junction. Meet people

through cards, games, talk and tea. Wednesdays | 2 p.m. | 257-2390 Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, meets monthly. 719-580-0948 Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981 in Grand Junction. All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. 2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 434-0868 Friendship Force meets at First Baptist Church in Grand Junction. 3rd Thursday | 6:15 p.m. | 778-6191 | www.ffwcolo.com Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road in Grand Junction. 2nd Thursday, 7 p.m. | 4th Thursday, 6:30 p.m. | grandjunctionrockclub@gmail.com Golden K Kiwanis meets at the Redlands Community Center. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | facebook.com/gjgoldenk Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Two Rivers Convention Center. 3rd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | www.grandjunctionpmc.com Grand Junction Toastmasters meets at The Commons of Hilltop Garden Room in Grand Junction. Tuesdays | 6:45 a.m. | 361-1806

Grand Valley Pets Alive meets at Church of the Nativity in Grand Junction. 3rd Wednesday | 4:30-6 p.m. | 462-7554 Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 6 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 1 p.m. | 245-8817 or 257-1549 Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 245-8817 or 856-3632 Great Old Broads for Wilderness, Grand Junction Area Chapter, meets monthly. Call for details. 596-8510 Guys’ Giving Club meets quarterly at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. 1st Tuesdays in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 243-8829 or 270-6184 Knights of Columbus #1062 typically meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall in Grand Junction. 2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 261-1952 Knitting Club meets at Community of Christ Church in Grand Junction. 4th Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 623-1455 Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. www.mesacountygenealogy.org

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Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets twice monthly. Call for location. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 208-9228 River City Singles meet regularly at Canyon View Park in Grand Junction. These young-at-heart adults get together for activities throughout the month. Fridays | $20/year | 210-2390 Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets weekly at the Bookcliff Country Club. Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 234-5030 Senior Social Club meets bimonthly on Zoom via Mesa County Libraries to chat and share stories. Register online for video link. 2nd & 4th Mondays | 1011:30 a.m. | 243-4442 | www. mesacountylibraries.org Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Saturday | 1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org

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38 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | JANUARY 2021 |

Not Going Quietly meets at Center for Spiritual Living Grand Junction. This group creates a space of empowerment, grace, community and wisdom for those age 60 and older. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | 433-7799

Is your LARGE home tying you DOWN?

BUY ONE GET ONE

2430 Patterson Rd., Unit A, Grand Junction

Newcomers Club meets at First Christian Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Call me today to start your way to an easier lifestyle. I will help you navigate the way whether you are buying, selling, transitioning or investing.

Carol Gerber SRES 234-2037

2474 Patterson Rd. #100 Grand Junction CarolGerber@kw.com

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

SOS: Singles over 65 is a genderbalanced club for seniors who may be single, retired, new in town or not! 775-400-8700 | $20/year | www.meetup.com/singles-over-65

Western Colorado Amateur Radio Club meets at the Civil Patrol Hangar, 2868 Aviators Way. 2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | www.w0rrz.org

Sweet Adelines International, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church. Currently, meetings are held over Zoom. Call for an invite. Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 256-9763 | www.grandmesaacappella.com

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at Mesa County Libraries’ Central Branch. 1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 201-2865 | www.wcacastronomy.org

Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets weekly. Call for location. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 361-1806 Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | www.thunder mountaincameraclub.org Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Junction Masonic Center. Thursdays | 261-1670 Veterans Coffee Club meets weekly at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road, Grand Junction. Tuesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 257-3760 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) #3981 meets at the Post Hall, 503 Florence Road, in Grand Junction. 1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 778-8242

Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets at First Congregational Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 640-2751 Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247 in Grand Junction. 4th Tuesday | Free currency evaluation at 5:30 p.m. | Meeting at 6:30 p.m. | 250-7036 Western Slope Liberty Toastmasters meets at Chronos Builders in Grand Junction. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 361-1806

Trust is earned Western Colorado has turned to Hilltop for compassionate care for over 70 years.

Wheels West Car Club meets at the Whitman Center, Museum of Western Colorado. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www.wheelswestcarclub.org

Our award-winning senior living communities offer:

Yoga for Military Members, hosted at Western Region One Source, offers a free beginner yoga class for military members and their family. Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 257-3760 ■

n Luxurious apartments with views, spacious floorplans, and paid utilities n Restaurant-style dining n Beautiful outdoor spaces and walking trails n Social activities and trips

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Email your club’s information to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES |

MeSa County

BEACON BITS BEACON BITS

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending. Cappella prepared to receive COVID-19 vaccine CLC-Cappella is ready to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to protect residents and associates in all 23 of its communities as soon as it is available. Cappella’s assigned pharmacy will administer the vaccine free of charge to residents and team members, and will set up dates and times to administer the vaccines to residents at the community. For more information, call 720-6062440 or 549-0671. Colorado memorial comes to Western Region One Source Along with community partners, Western Region One Source (WROS) brought the Colorado panels of the Remembering Our

Fallen Memorial to Grand Junction on December 7. This memorial commemorates military members from across the state who made the ultimate sacrifice during operations between 9/11 and the present. In upcoming years, the memorial will tour the state as part of the “Cost of Freedom Tour.” When it’s not on tour, it will be housed at the WROS. With pandemic precautions in place, the public can visit WROS during normal business hours to view the memorial at no cost. To view upcoming tour schedules or other information, visit www. rememberingourfallen.org. Gem and Mineral Club seeks crafters for March craft show Grand Junction Gem and Mineral

enhancing the lives of those we serve • 24 hour nursing care • Life enrichment programs seven days a week • Post physical, occupational and speech therapies • Short and long term care • Respite care • Hospice care

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243-3381

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Center for Independence announces William Allen as new director Center for Independence is proud to announce the selection of William S. Allen as its Director of Programs and Operations. Allen boasts a strong background in independent living, with many years of serving people with disabilities in Colorado. His BA in social work from Gallaudet University and master’s degrees in social work and administration policy and planning from Rutgers in New Jersey, has prepared him for a life of effective public Club is accepting applications for crafters on a first-come, firstserved basis for its outdoor Arts and Crafts Show on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Products need to be handmade. For applications, call

service. Center for Independence assists individuals with disabilities to live independently through advocacy, benefit services, assistive technology, transitional support, job training, housing, and more. For details, call 241-0315. 250-9128 or 434-3033. Grand Valley Pets Alive helped a record number of animals in 2020 Grand Valley Pets Alive (GVPA) closed out 2020 with a record num-

ber of spay/neuter surgeries—500 completed by December 9! In November, GVPA was the recipient of two grants. The Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund granted $2,000 to pay for spay/neuter of pet dogs or cats of income qualified individuals. The Mesa County Small Grants Foundation granted GVPA $405 to pay for distemper immunizations. Ongoing support through the Lorraine & Jack Walker Fund has also been a major source of funding. Call 462-7554 to find out how GVPA can help you get your pets (cats, dogs, rabbits) and colony cats “romantically repaired.” Decker publishes stories of western Colorado pioneers It took 25 years, but local author George Decker’s goal of recording and transcribing the stories of early day Western Colorado pioneers came to fruition this fall when his compilation was finally published as a soft-cover book titled, “Recollections and Ramblings of a Few of Western Colorado’s Pioneers.” Having grown up on a remote cattle ranch during the 1940s, Decker spent many evenings in a bunkhouse listening to older cowboys reminisce about their younger years. He often thought that those stories should be recorded for posterity. Starting in 1985, he began interviewing and recording as many old-timers as he could. “Recollections and Ramblings” contains 24 different pioneers’ stories that are funny, heartwarming and sometimes tragic. Books available for purchase for $22.95. For more information, email the author at gdeckercc@gmail.com ■

Email newsto: to: Emailyour your business business news Beacon@PendantPublishing.com Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Question VOLUNTEERS WANTED Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer positions in any of our member agencies. Call 243-9839, ext. 5 Food Bank of the Rockies seeks volunteers to help in a variety of areas. Volunteer shifts are available Monday through Friday starting at 8 a.m. and afternoons starting at 1 p.m. Call 464-1138 | www. foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer Grand Junction Visitor Center seeks volunteer tourism ambassadors to welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Flexible schedule. 256-4054 | kerryg@gjcity.org MOPS Kids (Mothers of Preschoolers) is looking for volunteers to watch children for several hours a month during MOPS meetings at Canyon View Vineyard Church in Grand Junction 2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 9-11:30 a.m. | 549-6637 Palisade Historical Society welcomes volunteers who would like to share the history of Palisade, and/or work on various committees and projects. Email pbwalker630@acsol.net Foster Grandparents are needed in nonprofit school classrooms throughout Mesa County. Applicants must be 55+ and may be eligible for a tax-free stipend. Call 298-9092 Senior Companions 55+ are needed to provide friendship and drive homebound seniors to errands and appointments. Call 298-9092 Mesa County Spellbinders seeks volunteers to learn a few storytelling skills and make a difference. Tell stories to students in kindergarten through fifth grade once a month during the school year. Call 243-7303

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Melanie Wiseman

Describe a time when you were starstruck by a celebrity. Winona Schwartz - Grand Junction “I was around 7 years old. My mother took me to see the movie ‘The Sound of Music.’ I was starstruck by Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer and the entire cast. It’s still my favorite movie. I love the music and the story of the Von Trapp family escaping from the Nazis.”

Tom Ziola - Grand Junction “I met Rulon Gardner, the 2000 Olympic Gold medalist for GRECORoman wrestling. I got to shake his hand (both he and his hand were HUGE!) chat a bit, and hold his Olympic medals. It was a real treat.”

Christy Baker - Grand Junction “My teenage crush was on Peter Blair Denis Bernard Noone, better known as ‘Herman’ of Herman’s Hermits.”

Alan Barrington - Telluride “I discovered horses in California, and they’re what brought me to my true home in the Telluride area. I met Mario Zadra, a successful rancher near Norwood. I studied at his knee for years. The knowledge he had of cattle, horses, history, people and this land allowed him to be Buddha-like.”

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | BEACON BITS |

CALENDAR SUPPORT GROUPS

Montrose MeSa & Delta County

Editor’s note: Some support group meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending. Caregiver Connections meets at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest, 3090 N. 12th St. Tuesdays | 10-11:30 a.m. | 241-2212 Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella Grand Junction, 628 261/2 Road. Call to RSVP. 1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 822-7070 Come Back Yoga is open to veterans and their caregivers at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Wednesdays | 2:15-3:15 p.m. | 257-3764 Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents at Unity Church.

1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 434-3822 COPD Support Group meets at 581 Grand Valley Drive. 4th Friday | 2 p.m. | 317-7556 | jimcampbell3@aol.com Gamblers Anonymous’ 12-step meeting is held at The Meeting Hall, 1938 N. First St. in Grand Junction. Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719 GriefShare, a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those mourning the death of a loved one, meets at Clifton Christian Church, 3241 F ¼ Road. Mondays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 628-1453 Grief Group for Pets meets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society, 362 28 Road. 2nd Wednesday, bi-monthly |

Need help with winter heat bills?

6-7 p.m. | 434-7337, ext. 103 Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, 2643 Patterson Road, #503 (St. Mary’s Hospital). 1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 245-2400 Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 298-2351 HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N 5th St., Grand Junction. 3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 778-9274 Job Searching After 50 Networking Group meets at Mesa County Workforce Center. You must register as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com. 1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-10 a.m. | 248-7560 Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets monthly in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 298-2351 MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room, 2121 North Ave. 1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 298-2351 Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location. Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 257-2390 Mindful Pain Management meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Fridays | 1 p.m. | 257-3764 MS Breakfast Group meets at Village Inn, 757 Horizon Drive. 1st Tuesday | 9 a.m. | 985-4935 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fruita. 4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www.NAMIWS.org | 462-3989

Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment, community and grace for adults 60+, meets at the Center for Spiritual Living. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | www. cslgj.org | 433-7799 Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 27 1/2 Road. Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. | 379-5786 PTSD Support Group meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. | 257-3764 TOPS Club weight-loss support group meets at Grace Point Church, 606 28 3/4 Road. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 523-0243 Veteran Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Wednesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 2573764 Veteran Peer Support meets weekly at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Wednesdays | 2-3 p.m. | 257-3764 Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only support group meets at the Grand Junction Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 263-8986 Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 298-2351 Yoga For Life meets at the St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room. Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 p.m. | 298-2351 Yoga for Military Members, hosted at Western Region One Source, offers a free beginner yoga class for military members and their family. Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 257-3760 ■

Email your support group info to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com 42 | SUPPORT GROUPS | JANUARY 2021 |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Impacted by a Disability? NEED HELP putting all the pieces together? Our dedicated staff of program specialists are available to explore the options

CFI is here to assist individuals with disabilities across 12 Western Slope counties to live independently through advocacy, benefit services, assistive technology, transitional support, job training, housing, information & referral to other community services, and more!

Call us with questions

970-241-0315 • www.cfigj.org 740 Gunnison Ave. • Grand Junction Offices in Grand Junction, Montrose, Glenwood Springs & Salida

A Room with a view Colorado Veterans Community Living Center • Short term rehab • Long term care • Secured memory care

ROOMS READY FOR YOU

625-0842 Admissions: Lisa Adams

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 |

Montrose & Delta

CALENDAR

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending.

January 1-3

January 8

Begin anew with meditation practice and guidance from John Bruna and Laura Bartels. Learn more and register online. 4 p.m. | $125 | www.mindfullife program.org/upcoming-event | 633-0163

Focus on self care and get yourself in top shape with these natural remedies. Experts discuss diet, yoga and meditation, and Native American health and wellness practices. 7-8 p.m. | Free | www. historycolorado.org/ute-indianmuseum | 719-583-0453

Virtual New Year Mindfulness Retreat

Virtual Village Helping Hands

January 2

Virtual Book Club

Discuss “The Elephant Whisperer” by Lawrence Anthony with others who’ve read the book virtually on Zoom. Email lmclean@ montroselibrary.org for the link. 9-10 a.m. | www.montroselibrary. org/event | 249-9656 ext. 3

January 6

Watercolor Wednesdays

Bring your art supplies and escape from today’s turmoil at the Montrose Center for the Arts with instructor Jodine Broscovak. 1-4 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | $35 | www.mc4arts.com | 787-9428

January 8-10

Virtual San Juan Skijoring

What’s better than watching cowboys and cowgirls pulling skiers and boarders at high speeds through gates and over jumps? Watch this annual event online this year from the safety of your home. 6-9 p.m. | facebook.com/san juanskijoring | 318-1042

Watch a free introduction webinar teaching a few mindfulness practices you can start using right away. 5:30-6:45 p.m. | Free | www. brainbellyheart.com | 318-0529

January 10

Concealed Carry Class

Take a firearms safety course for a concealed carry permit at the Montrose Elks Lodge. Classroom only; no need to bring a firearm. Call to reserve your spot. 1 p.m. | 801 S. Hillcrest Drive, Montrose | $75 | 986-0519

January 12 & 19

Geology of Ouray

The Wright Opera House hosts a two-part art online lecture series exploring the amazing geology of Ouray through drone photography. 9:30-11:30 a.m. | www.thewright operahouse.org/events

January 13

Chronic Pain Educational Webinar

January 13 & 16

January 9 & 23

Montrose Winter Market

Support your local farmers’ market every other weekend in Montrose’s Centennial Meeting Room.

6' social distancing on all vehicles

44 | CALENDAR | JANUARY 2021 |

Golden Circle Lunch Bunch meetings

Bring your brown bag and mask and join the conversation at Golden Circle Seniors 80s & 90s Lunch Bunch held at Our Town Matters. 12 p.m. | 1245 E. Main St, Montrose |901-9914

January 17

Elks Memorial Service

The Montrose Elks Lodge hosts a special service to honor our departed brothers and sisters. Family and friends are encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be served. 2 p.m. | 801 Hillcrest Drive, Montrose | elks1053@elkslodge. org ■

January 24

Beethoven concert

Western Slope Concert Series presents “Beethoven: His Kiss to the World” at the Montrose Pavilion, featuring husband-wife team pianist Kathryn Mietka Farruggia and singer-actor Charles Farruggia. 3-5 p.m. | $15 | 1800 E. Pavilion Place, Montrose | 249-7015

More than

Disinfecting between passenger loads

January 15

Elements Writing Workshop

January 7

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction

10 a.m.-1 p.m. | 433 S. First St., Montrose | Free

Masks required for drivers & passengers

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

a Ride

To make an end of year donation, visit www.allpointstransit.org/donate 970-240-1951

Make new friends with the Lunch Bunch

New meeting location encourages camaraderie while social distancing

WE ALSO OFFER DRYER VENT CLEANING

30% DISCOUNT ON JANUARY ORDERS

Free Quote: 970-316-1880

Find the BEACON closest to you! https://www.beaconseniornews.com/pages/beacon-locations

hould old acquaintances be forgotten in the days of COVID-19? A group of Montrose seniors don’t think so. They call themselves the Lunch Bunch. Prior to the pandemic, this lively group, made up of seniors in their 80s and 90s, took excursions to fascinating places and dined at restaurants from Grand Junction to Ouray. They met monthly over lunch at the Montrose Pavilion Senior Center and learned about a variety of subjects during educational lunch presentations. Cindy Marino, Montrose Recreation’s 50+ Activities Coordinator, said the group planned to do regular tours before the pandemic caused the senior center to close. But she and Lunch Bunch organizer, Wini Tappan, 94, didn’t let it stop them from getting together. They met at Lions Club Park, where club members brought their brown bag lunches and socialized while sitting apart. As colder weather set in, the need arose for a big enough space where they could safely meet during the winter. Word spread and community members stepped up to help. Tonya Maddox, Our Town Matters CEO, heard about the group’s plight and extended an invitation for them to meet at her offices at 1245 E. Main St. in Montrose.

Katie and Curtis Kraft were inspired to help after seeing how the shutdown had impacted Katie’s mother, Harriet Nelson, who missed the camaraderie and connection at the senior lunches. Curtis, owner of Brix and Stix Custom Homes, donated the labor to build an access ramp to the building. United Concrete and Home Depot discounted the materials used to build the ramp and repair the concrete in the parking lot. Large donations came from the Moore family and an anonymous donor that wanted the Lunch Bunch to know it was a “God wink.” To donate, send checks to the Golden Circle Seniors’ Pay It Forward Fund, P.O. Box 832, Montrose, CO 81402. Donations are tax deductible. ■

BRING YOUR LUNCH AND A MASK The 80s & 90s Lunch Bunch will resume meetings at noon on Friday, January 15 at Our Town Matters, 1245 E. Main St. in Montrose. Safety shields are provided for easier talking. Call Marilynn Huseby at 901-9914 for details. Photos and info for this article courtesy of Marilynn Huseby.

T I M E WA I TS FOR NO ONE

Pre-planning one’s funeral is easier to do than you think. Think ahead. Think about your Family. At any one of our four locations, or in the comfort of your home, we can answer questions that will put your heart at ease. Don’t put off until tomorrow what can bring you peace today. “When You Need Us, We’ll Be Here”

Montrose & Delta

CLUBS

Editor’s note: Some club meetings may be canceled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact organizers to confirm meeting details before attending. Alpine Photography Club meets at Colorado Mesa University’s Montrose Campus, classroom 100. 2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus sings four-part a cappella at Olathe United Methodist Church. Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 765-7020 Book Club meets virtually through the Montrose Regional Library. 1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org Citizens Climate Lobby meets monthly at the Montrose Library. 240-9146 | montrose@citizens climatelobby.org | www.citizens climatelobby.org Crafternoon members meet in the Montrose Library’s meeting

room. Members knit and crochet projects, which they donate to various charities. Supplies are provided. Experienced crafters will help beginners. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | 249-9656 Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club is seeking new dancers. Call if interested in future square dancing classes. 7-9 p.m. | 773-4495 | deltawriter47@gmail.com

3rd Friday | 7 p.m. | 417-6142 Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way in Montrose. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. to noon | 986-2550 | lvcribbs@charter.net Montrose Elks hosts bingo at the Montrose Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Drive. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 249-4852 Montrose Pavilion Dance Club has canceled dances at the Montrose Pavilion due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When they resume, dancers of all ages are welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays | $5 | 7:30-11 p.m. | 252-7172

Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado meet monthly at Friendship Hall at the Montrose County Fairgrounds. 4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 417-4842

San Juan Dance Club offers eight styles of dance lessons at the Lions Clubhouse in Montrose. Singles are welcome. Thursdays | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 2529600 | patdouglas213@yahoo.com

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at the Olathe Community Center.

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets monthly at Shepherd of the

Biggest sale of the Year 20% off on Materials & laBor

January Orders Only

Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction. 1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org Veteran Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road in Grand Junction. Wednesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 257-3764 Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at the Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road. 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 209-5326 Women’s Giving Club of Montrose meets quarterly at The Bridges Country Club. 1st Monday in February, May, August, November | 5:30 p.m. | givingclubofmontrose@gmail.com ■

Email your club’s information to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Colorow Care Center IS THE ONLY EDEN ALTERNATIVE® CERTIFIED COMMUNITY ON THE WESTERN SLOPE.

We are dedicated to creating a quality of life for our Elders and their care partners.

Vinyl

Corrugated Metal

Cedar Wood

Colorow is a skilled nursing facility that believes in healthy living, person-centered care and nontraditional approaches in meeting everyday needs.

Gate operators add an extra measure of protection. We are your year around fence company. Get the facts about zoning. Free estimates. 2 yr labor warranty.

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www.vivage.com/Colorow We Accept: Medicare • Medicaid • RMHMO • Private Pay • PACE • and More

46 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | JANUARY 2021 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

FUN AFTER 50

To register for programs and for COVID-19 updates, call 874-0923 or visit

To register for programs, and for COVID-19 updates, call Montrose Recreation District at 249-7705 or visit www.montroserec.com/637/

www.cityofdelta.net/parksrecgolf

COVID-19-ReOpening-UPDATES

NEWS Changes to Montrose Rec District Senior Memberships

Get involved and stay active with other seniors! To promote socialization and healthy lifestyles, Montrose Recreation District senior memberships now include: • Partial fee waivers for memberships and programs • 10% off select programs • Military discounts (active, retired, veterans) • Membership special: Buy one membership and get additional memberships 50 percent off! • Save 15 percent your membership or renewal when paid in full by January 31 Take advantage of these benefits and become a member today! Visit www.montroserec.com or call 249-7705.

TRIPS & TOURS Snowshoeing on Log Hill

Few recreational activities are as easy to learn and are as much fun as snowshoeing! Dress in layers, wear sunscreen and bring a sack lunch. You must provide your own snowshoes. Location and trip date are subject to change based on weather or COVID restrictions. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | January 26 | Montrose Recreation Center | $20 by bus, $15 self-drive

PAMPERING Reflexology Foot Therapy

Call to reserve a 20-minute treatment with certified reflexologist Cheryl Adams. 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | January 8 | Montrose Recreation Center Party Room | $15

Pedicures

Service includes a foot assessment, toenail trim and filing edges, thinning of nails and callus removal if needed. We are currently looking for a new service provider to perform pedicures. Call if interested or if you know someone. 252-4884 | Montrose Recreation Center Party Room

Chair Massage

Call to reserve a 15-minute chair massage by certified massage therapists. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | January 11 & 26 | Montrose Recreation Center Party Room | $15

VIRTUAL Highway61 helps seniors stay connected Highway61 is a free platform for seniors that offers real-time discussions, games and support groups all throughout the day. Live discussions offered include classic movies, opera, music hour, travel, bingo, trivia, as well as support groups for aging alone, grief and chronic illness. Create an account at www.highway61.co and find upcoming discussions.

FITNESS Senior Circuit

Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises. 9 a.m. Monday through Friday

Pilates

Low-impact movements that improve flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. 12 p.m. Mondays | 9 a.m. Fridays

Body Bar

Get an entire body workout using a weighted fitness bar. 9 a.m. Tuesdays | 6 a.m. Wednesdays

HBSB (Healthy Body Strong Bones)

Use simple weightlifting with hand weights designed to help increase flexibility, balance and bone strength. 9 a.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement using hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball. A chair can be used for seated exercises or standing support. 10 a.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays

Body Blitz

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class guaranteed to get your heart pumping. 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m. Thursdays

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre elements using stretching and body weight exercises. 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays

Dance Fit

POOL FITNESS Cardio Crazy

This water fitness class incorporates high energy cardio to gain strength and muscle toning. Aqua shoes recommended. 8:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays

Pool Power

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas using a variety of pool tools. Aqua shoes recommended. 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Body & Health

Enjoy a combination of aerobic and full body workout in the pool, suitable for all ages and levels. 10:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Light-n-Lively

This class is designed for beginners to build endurance and strength in the water. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Splash Circuits

This is the aquatic equivalent to gym circuits for a total body workout. Water shoes recommended. 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

This class includes water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges to tone muscles and raise heart rate. 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Deep Benefits

Held in the diving well of the main pool, this provides a no-impact, challenging cardiovascular workout. 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays

Get fit and have fun while following along to choreographed dances guaranteed to burn energy and shake stress. 5:30 p.m. Thursdays WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JANUARY 2021 | FUN AFTER 50 |

Montrose Montrose & & Delta Delta

BEACON BITS BEACON BITS

Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions. Please contact event organizers to confirm event details before attending. Delta County Memorial Hospital welcomes new physician to Hotchkiss Clinic Delta County Memorial Hospital’s West Elk Clinic in Hotchkiss welcomed its newest physician, Dr. Max Scholle, to the team. Scholle is a board-certified family physician and has experience in primary care, obstetrics and hospitalist medicine. Scholle attended Northern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for his undergraduate degree in Biology and attended Medical School at Ross University of Medicine in Dominica. Scholle started his first practice in the remote town of Salmon, Idaho, where he got to experience the full scope of rural medicine, practic-

ing primary care, obstetrics and hospitalist medicine. When Scholle discovered Delta, he fell in love with the uniqueness and beauty of the area, and knew it was a place he could call home. Scholle is currently accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call 8721400.

RIVERSIDE ADULT DAY PROGRAM

...Serving Delta and Montrose Counties

We Give Family Caregivers the Break They Need We provide specialized care by qualified healthcare professionals for adults coping with Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, Diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Brain Injury and Mental Health issues. • Healthy meals & snacks • Beauty and nail care • Therapeutic activities • Social Interactions

Schedule a Free Day with Us

Call 970-249-1590

• Medication administration • Licensed by the CO Dept Public Health & Environment • Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, Private Pay & Insurance accepted

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm 16935 6450 Rd, Montrose, CO

Transportation to and from adult’s residence provided.

www.RiversideAdultDayProgram.com 48 | BEACON BITS | JANUARY 2021 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Region 10 offers free virtual classes for older adults Region 10 Area Agency on Aging has access to free virtual classes for older adults. These small group classes, taught by retired educators, are designed to keep seniors’ minds active, allowing them to engage with others and increase their ability to live independently and learn new things. Classes are offered in a variety of subjects, including aging in place, financial planning, health and wellness, social media, technology and more! Visit www.getsetup.io/partner/Region10 and use the code “Region10” when booking your classes to waive the fee. For help, call 249-2436. Montrose Memorial Hospital under new management After more than three decades, Montrose Memorial Hospital has a new management company. The Montrose Memorial Hospital, Inc.

Board entered a contract with the Texas-based Community Hospital Corporation, effective January 1, 2021. The contract will replace Quorum Health Resources LLC, which has had a management agreement with the hospital since 1989. For more information, call 240-7344. Montrose no longer accepting green waste As of January 1, the City of Montrose no longer accepts green waste. The processing of green waste—defined as lawn clippings, garden plants, weeds, leaves, hedge/tree trimmings, and tree branches—has proven problematic for the city. A careful analysis determined that labor costs were not sustainable for long-term fiscal stewardship. Alternatively, residents can dispose of green waste at Waste Management, located at 67999 Landfill Road, or participate

in the City of Montrose’s annual leaf collection and spring cleanup. City of Montrose utility customers can contact the public works department at 240-1480 to schedule pickups for a small fee. For information, contact City Hall at 240-1400. MMH employee recognized as hospital superhero

annual community food drive, resulting in over 4,000 pounds of food and $1,007 donated by health care workers. This year’s food donations surpassed 2019’s donations by over 1,000 pounds! All food donations were distributed to food banks located in Paonia, Hotchkiss, Cedaredge and Delta. The DCMH Employee Food Drive is the largest drive supporting the county’s food banks. Over the past seven years, it’s collected over 32,000 pounds of food and supplies. ■

Email your business news to: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com Megan McBrayer, infection preventionist at Montrose Memorial Hospital (MMH), has been recognized by the Colorado Hospital Association (CHA) as a Colorado Hospital Superhero. MMH nominated McBrayer for her key role in ensuring it maintained a safe environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Colorado Hospital Superhero campaign honors extraordinary employees from hospitals around Colorado for their efforts during the pandemic. This recognition honors those who’ve gone above and beyond, exhibiting courage, a strong moral code and mental toughness. CHA will honor these superheroes at a virtual appreciation event in early 2021. For a list of honorees, visit www.cha.com. Delta County Memorial Hospital employee food drive surpasses 2019 donations Delta County Memorial Hospital’s (DCMH) hosted their seventh

SUPPORT GROUPS

Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room. 2nd Monday | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 874-6410

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Sharing Ministries Food Bank in Montrose seeks dedicated volunteers for three hours, one day a week. Call 240-8385 Senior CommUnity Meals needs volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors in Delta and Montrose counties. www.seniorcommunitymeals.org | 874-7661 Friends of Montrose Library seeks volunteers to sort donated books, run book sales and serve on its board of directors. Meetings are held once a month. Call 249-9656 Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans seeks volunteers to help at its ReStore or at its construction sites. Call 252-9303 Time Bank of the Rockies is a Montrose-based nonprofit that helps people through a system of exchanged services. Call 209-6886 Museum of the Mountain West seeks volunteer tour guides to bring the past to life for visitors. Call 240-3400

Question

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Siggie Carpenter

Describe a time when you were starstruck by a celebrity. Lani Standifer - Montrose “In the early 1970s, when I was working for KREX-AM/TV, I just happened to meet Roman Gabriel. I had no clue who he was, but he was absolutely gorgeous!”

Dianna Coram - Montrose “In the late 1990s, I was attending a women’s leadership convention in Texas where I met the former First Lady Barbara Bush. I was so impressed by the way she carried herself. She was very approachable and shared personal stories we could all relate to.”

Dawn White - Montrose “I had an encounter with a Good Samaritan looking to help a homeless person. After listening to his story, I agreed to help. I asked him ‘Who are you?’ He leaned in gently and said, ‘You know who I am.’ I looked him straight in the eyes and quietly said ‘I thought so!’ It was a moment I will never forget.”

Bradley Adams - Montrose “When I was 5 years old, my mom took me to Ridgway when they were filming the movie ‘True Grit’ in 1969. My mom had connections and arranged for me to meet John Wayne. I remember him twirling those silvery guns and calling me his partner. He had a way of making every little boy want to be a cowboy.”

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ACROSS

1. Jr.’s exam 5. Former Virginia

senator Charles 9. Swan-like aquatic birds 14. Patron saint of sailors 15. Fall birthstone 16. Actor’s parts 17. Republic in N Central America 19. Personal quality of material belonging 20. Nero’s tutor 21. Apple computer 23. Chances ___ 24. Crooner Vic 26. Kazan 28. Slant 30. Monetary unit of Panama 34. Unconscious 37. Eternal 39. Zwei cubed 41. Extra-wide shoe size 42. “Song of the South” song syllables 43. Glowing 48. Attention 49. Get down

50. Forest makeup 52. Florida’s Miami-

___ County

54. Aquanaut’s base 57. ___ in Charlie 60. Queue after Q 62. Stage plays 64. Sharp 66. Interpret 68. Oktoberfest vessel 69. Exchange premium 70. Siouan speaker 71. Exhausted 72. Spanish muralist 73. Intellectual faculty

DOWN

1. Clothes-pins 2. Swung around 3. Radarange maker 4. Clan emblems 5. Imperial dynasty

of Russia ___-Locka, FL Indonesian island Hold responsible Thank you, in Mexico 10. Goddess of dawn in Greek mythology 11. Movie lioness

6. 7. 8. 9.

12. Fortuneteller 13. Ferrara family 18. French school 22. Goya’s “The

Duchess of ___”

alma mater

25. Tools for duels 27. Utah ski resort 29. Standing up 31. Linger 32. Most draftable 33. Antiquing agent 34. Clods 35. Arthur Ashe’s

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SUDOKU

36. Dull sound 38. Dirty looks 40. Mary ___ Lincoln 44. Hindmost part 45. Finishes 46. Is unobliged to 47. Eye drops 51. Zigzag 53. Kett and James 55. Fine fiddle 56. Twirler’s stick 57. Play group 58. Play start 59. Plaintiff 61. Driving force 63. Bird feed 65. Father’s Day gift 67. Show

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FIND 24 ELVIS PRESLEY SONGS 1. Hound Dog 2. Teddy Bear 3. Heartbreak Hotel 4. Little Sister 5. Return To Sender 6. Don’t Be Cruel 7. All Shook Up 8. Viva Las Vegas 9. Stuck On You 10. Jailhouse Rock 11. It’s Now Or Never 12. Blue Christmas 13. The Wonder Of You 14. Burning Love

15. Suspicious Minds 16. If I Can Dream 17. Always On My Mind 18. In The Ghetto 19. One Night 20. Love Me Tender 21. Surrender 22. Unchained Memory 23. Raised On Rock 24. Kentucky Rain 25. Rock A Hula Rock 26. Don’t Cry Daddy 27. Memories

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B&D’s

No job too big or small 10% Senior Discount on Repairs

Moving, trash haul away, construction cleanup, estate & yard sales

Regan’s Regal Beauty Perms, color, haircuts for women and men. New location at 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction. Licensed cosmetologist. Call Regan Clements at 719-425-0543 to book today!

The Cleaning Lady Fall is a perfect time to declutter your house! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing and cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just a one-time shot. Linda K. 720-841-7505 or 263-7364.

I buy silver, gold, antiques, knives, watches, military, coins, old signs. Same day service and free quotes. Call Brandon

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FOR SALE Electric Scooter Easy travel “Class A” electrically powered scooter perfect for people with limited mobility. Folds up for easy travel, is airline-approved, fits in most car trunks. Has extra battery. $2300. Call 640-0127 or email salazar5050@msn.com. Fancy Guppies Fancy Guppy Fish for sale, $1.25 each. Will deliver purchases of 10 or more locally. Delta, CO. Text 901-9364. ToneKote and Seal ‘N Heal for dogs Use Happy Jack® ToneKote to treat allergies, stop shedding and ensure a warm winter coat, and Seal ‘N Heal to protect wounds with a bitter taste to prevent gnawing and allow healing. Available at Tractor Supply. www.kennelvax.com

HELP WANTED

WE’RE HIRING! ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES FREELANCE WRITERS

Send your letter and resume to beacon@pendantpublishing.com No phone calls, please.

HOME SERVICES B-N-Trees Tree removal, stump grinding, trimming. Call Bill 430-1970.

Resale & Services

970-258-0930

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the Valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048. 20% Senior Discount Call Dragon Heating & A/C, Inc. to get your heater safety checked for winter. Serving the Western Slope since 2006. Your Comfort is Our Business. Call Dan to schedule services and for a free estimate: 858-4775. www.dragonhvac.com

SERVICES Silver Sage Senior Delivery Service Local, safe and dependable, the surprisingly affordable answer to your delivery issues. “You need it…We bring it.” Priority delivery available for medicine and medical supplies. For all your delivery needs, call 314-8753.

All Hair Salon Services Available

Medical Marijuana Doctor Days in Montrose and Grand Junction Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAA-compliant setting. Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visit www.healthychoicesunltd.com.

Senior Discounts

NOW OPEN

970-930-1942

Pat's Hair Salon & Ceramics Great Prices on Perms

CERAMIC & PORCELAIN DOLL MAKING CLASSES & SUPPLIES

778-8075

Computer Lady, LLC In-home repair. 18 years serving Mesa County. Windows, Internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified. Remote services available. www.CompLady.com or 255-1216.. In-Home Toenail Care JQ Foot Care will provide in-home toenail care. This includes cleansing of feet, inspection, nails trimmed, filed and lotion applied with massage. $35 for session. Education to promote foot health. 250-7454.

My Little Haven Is NOW OPEN! New and used home furnishings, antiques and collectibles. Inside is way bigger than it looks from the outside. Come in and check us out. 575 25 Road, Grand Junction. Open Tues-Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 986-8141.

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54 | OPINION | JANUARY 2021 |

By Alex Rothstein

OVID-19 is a terrifying wake-up call for out-of-shape Americans. More than four in 10 U.S. adults are obese, and 60 percent have at least one chronic disease, putting them at high risk of serious COVID-19 complications—or worse. Individuals with chronic illnesses are 12 times more likely to die from the virus. For decades, health care professionals have cautioned people about the dangers of obesity. But those warnings have largely gone unheeded. Until recently, too many Americans viewed exercise as just the ticket to a beach body, not the first line of defense against deadly diseases. COVID-19 is changing that mistaken belief. Now, it’s incumbent upon health professionals to help Americans get in shape. While everyone knows that exercise promotes good health, many don’t understand how. Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body, meaning that more immune cells can circulate at a higher rate. Over time, that immune response builds up. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that for people who engaged in aerobic exercise five or more times per week, upper respiratory tract infection decreased by 40 percent over 12 weeks. Staying active also reduces body fat and inflammation, which helps to fend off infections and prevent chronic conditions. Americans are starting to finally realize that staying fit isn’t just about looking good—it’s about strengthening the immune system. Fortunately, the fitness industry

is trying to accommodate this mass awakening by moving classes outdoors and online for the first time. Further transformation of Americans’ relationship with exercise will require the help of exercise science professionals. Their job is to develop individualized wellness programs that consider a person’s age, health, culture and other factors that influence their ability to maintain a healthy routine. For example, someone at risk of developing high blood pressure may know they need exercise but have no idea where to start. An exercise science professional can help set realistic and achievable goals with something as simple as a short morning walk. That person can then develop longer-term habits that incorporate more vigorous exercise into their routine. Or, exercise science experts can educate chronic disease patients about the ways physical activity can help manage their conditions, from reducing the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis to increasing insulin sensitivity for diabetics. These professionals can also adjust their methods based on clients’ individual comfort levels. Many Americans still don’t feel safe entering brick-and-mortar gyms. In response, exercise science professionals can use other innovative tools and training models, such as remote platforms and outdoor workout settings. COVID-19 has disrupted our society. But it has also created an opportunity to improve our country’s health by transforming exercise into the primary weapon in our fight against the virus. ■

Alex Rothstein is an instructor and program coordinator for the exercise science degree program at New York Institute of Technology. This piece originally ran in Fortune. WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Like you, we’re happy to move on from 2020.

Here’s to the happiest of New Years.

Welcome 2021!

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(970) 242-PLAN (7526) Good News For Those Facing High Costs of F Plans! • If you currently have a Plan F Supplement you can move to a Plan G Supplement between January 1, 2021- June 30, 2021, without having to answer medical questions. • Why would you want to move from a Plan F to a Plan G? The premiums for a Plan G can be significantly less money!

• Will your coverage be the same under a Plan G Supplement? The ONLY difference between a Plan F and a Plan G is that you pay the annual Medicare Part B deductible (which in 2020 was $198). We have seen that Plan G savings are more than enough money to pay the Part B deductible and have money left over!

• Can you move to a Plan G now and not wait until January 1, 2021? Yes! You will need to answer medical questions if you apply now, but if you are in relatively good health, you can apply and if accepted, start saving money now!

Have you made sure your primary doctor, specialist and hospital are in network for your plan? Call us today to see if you can still make changes to your supplement!