April 2022 - BEACON Senior News by BEACON Senior News

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

APRIL 2022

As a living organ donor, you can be someone’s hero! Celebrate age at Grand Junction BeaconFest on April 28! Free admission, music and more!

Countdown to summer: This eating plan will help you lose 1-2 pounds a week

The economics of renewable energy

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I N T HI S I S S U E

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado April 2022 | Volume 35 | Issue 4

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin Graphic Designers B. Bigler Michael L. Madsen Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude

8 COVER STORY

Can you spare a kidney?

Living donation is an incredible way you can help save someone’s life

Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy

24 Dinosaurs aren’t just for kids

These senior volunteers dig their work at the Fruita dino museum

26 Turning to tech...slowly

The moment I realized my wife and I wouldn’t be technology trendsetters

Advertising Executive Debra Romaniec Advertising & Marketing Assistant Kayla Pool Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Lauren VanGundy Brittney Bade Cathy Shepperd

Burglars, robbers and thieves, oh my! Sensible ways to prevent burglary and what to do if you’re home

13 Kitten season is here!

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

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com The BEACON brings hope and help to western Colorado seniors and those who serve them. The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month and is distributed at more than 300 locations throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. 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. Display advertising rates are available upon request. © Copyright 2022 • All Rights Reserved

4 ways you can help the thousands of kittens that local shelters will care for this spring

15 The highs and lows of nutmeg

Nutmeg is a superfood spice with tons of health benefits despite its psychoactive properties

16 Don’t be duped by food labels

While food labels are valuable tools for consumers, they can be misleading. Here are some signs to watch for

21 Win tickets to Elton John tribute

Jim Witter pays tribute to Elton John’s timeless music at the Avalon Theatre

The most over-the-top malls in the U.S. Shopaholics, nature watchers and thrill seekers can exist harmoniously at these extravagant entertainment destinations

32 Countdown to summer diet

Get ready for swimsuit season with this seven-day eating plan that will help you lose one to two pounds a week

36 Economics of renewable energy

Opting for better energy choices can improve our finances while reducing damage to the planet

38 All speeds welcome!

Mesa Monument Striders appreciate Western Colorado’s beauty on foot

44 MESA COUNTY 44 Calendar 52 MONTROSE & DELTA 52 Calendar 60 Classifieds

Give back to the planet on Earth Day On the Cover

Curtis Swift is in the first stage of kidney failure and is in dire need of a living kidney donation. Photo by Cloie Sandlin

Sustainable gardening solutions to Earth’s environmental challenges

62 Opinion: Ageism in health care

Have you ever been told your health concerns are simply because of your age? This is ageism, and here’s why it’s a BIG problem

Celebrate age at BeaconFest B

eaconFest is Colorado’s largest celebration for seniors, baby boomers and their families. This mature lifestyle expo is the best opportunity for older adults and their caregivers to visit directly with nearly 100 local businesses and national agencies devoted to helping them age well in Western Colorado. This year’s show is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, April 28, 2022, at Grand Junction Convention Center. Live music, food samples, educational seminars and prize giveaways every half hour treat visitors to a fun-filled day of learning and entertainment—all for FREE! They can register for fabulous prizes, including vacation packages, hot springs soaks, living room furniture and restaurant gift cards. Local musicians King ’n Trio, Peggy Malone, Javier de los Santos and Donny Morales will perform

Colorado’s largest boomer and senior expo returns to Grand Junction Convention Center on Thursday, April 28 with free admission, live music, aging resources and big giveaways!

on the main stage, while the foyer hosts the barbershop melodies of Steppin’ Up! and Canyon Grand Barbershop Quartet; accordionist Mike Gazdak; Robin Freed & The Harps in Motion Ensemble; and singer-guitarist Billy Bonner. Attendees can learn from local experts in free seminars about Medicare, retirement options,

GRAND JUNCTION

breakthrough medical treatments, and tips for identifying scams and preventing fraud. They can also experience the benefits of chair yoga in a free class. At 1 p.m., BeaconFest honors some of our community’s most giving and passionate senior volunteers during the Volunteer of the Year ceremony at the main stage. BEACON readers can learn about this year’s honorees and vote for their favorites at www.Beacon SeniorNews.com.

Learn more at: www.Beacon Fest.BeaconSeniorNews.com or call 970-243-8829. Keeping up with western Colorado’s growing retiree population, BeaconFest is the largest annual mature lifestyle expo in Grand Junction and in Colorado. BeaconFest is sponsored by BEACON Senior News; Medicare Resource Center; Hilltop Senior Services; Humana; Bellco Credit Union; Colorado Advanced Orthopedics, Sports Medicine & Spine; and KREX-TV. ■

COLORADO’S LARGEST BOOMER & SENIOR FAIR

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THANK Y O U TO O UR 20 22 S P ONS OR S !

What “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” says about reinventing yourself I

just finished bingeing the TV series, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” which tells the story of Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a beautiful and brilliant young Jewish housewife who launches her stand-up comedy career in the ’50s and ’60s. I first started watching the series on Amazon Prime Video when it came out in 2017, but with two years between seasons (no doubt due to the pandemic), I had a hard time remembering the events of the show’s previous seasons and decided to start over. While the show begins with Midge (played by 31-year-old Rachel Brosnahan) living the life she always wanted—young and beautiful, happily married and seemingly well-off with two kids— it quickly falls apart when her husband leaves her for another woman. The show provides an amazing arch for women’s rights and feminism, not just with Midge and her newfangled career as a female comic, but also her manager, Susie, and her mother, Rose. The thing I most admire about the show is the writing—not just the jokes—but the snappy dialogue between Midge and her parents (Tony Shalhoub and Marin Hinkle). Throughout the show, Abe and Rose’s journey develops alongside Midge’s as their comfortable, happy lives are turned upside down as a result of their daughter’s new marital status and career choice—or so they believe. As the show goes on, both Abe and Rose’s preconceived notions about marriage, happiness and their own futures take a turn as Abe leaves his long-held job as a mathematics professor at Columbia University and then his dream job at Bell Labs, and Rose subsequently leaves her family to go to France, returns to continue her educa-

tion by taking art classes at Columbia, and then starts a new career of her own. Midge’s character is still young. Some people today might say she has “plenty of time” to figure her life out (although I’m not sure how many people in the ’60s actually said that). But for people like Abe and Rose, the idea of reinventing themselves may seem a little more daunting. “I think he feels like a fairly successful guy who’s got most of it figured out, and then comes to realize he really has nothing figured out at all,” Shalhoub said about his character in a Vanity Fair interview. I think this might be true for more people than we realize. I’m jumping the gun here, but I wanted to write this column before I forgot the events from the show that led to it. Make sure to pick up next month’s BEACON to read the stories of local people who reinvented themselves after 50, reminding us that age is only a number.

SEE YOU AT GRAND JUNCTION BEACONFEST ON APRIL 28! With more than 100 exhibitors, prizes, live entertainment, freebies and food—it’s no wonder BeaconFest is the largest boomer and senior fair in the area. Actually, as we know it, it’s the biggest in Colorado. BeaconFest is free for BEACON readers. It’s our way of saying thank you! Come see us at Grand Junction Convention Center from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 as we celebrate everything that’s great about getting older. Our Mesa County readers can see the enclosed BeaconFest show program for details, or they can visit www.BeaconFest.Beacon SeniorNews.com. ■

Cloie Sandlin, Editor in Chief Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

EDITOR'S COLUMN

LETTERS

from our readers We greatly appreciate the opportunity provided to us by FCI to participate in BeaconFest this year. Our participation in 2021 assisted us in reaching a large number of veterans in a very short time. This venue provided us the opportunity to inform and discuss valuable benefits, not only to veterans, but their families and friends as well. We estimated that we spoke to over 200 individuals and saw a marked response from them in the following weeks and months. The Veterans Memorial Cemetery frequently engages with the public through community resource events throughout the valley and the state. That being said, we rarely have this type of response. - Angela Ingalls, Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado RE: March BEACON It sounds like you picked up some of our upcoming events in your calendar, which is great! But one important piece of information was missing: The lecture we hosted last night was virtual. We had a group of people show up at our office last night anticipating an in-person event. I received a few calls previously from other people who saw it in the BEACON as well. - Annie Carter, Colorado Canyons Association (CCA) Cloie: We apologize for missing this detail in our calendar and for any inconvenience this caused our readers and CCA! We will take better care in the future. One of the articles talks about Littleton, Colorado. However, there’s no address, phone number or contact details [to help me visit]. I hate the web and I don’t use it. Please add details so that all of us can access the information. - K. Cotton Cloie: Great point! We want to make it easy for our readers to get in touch or get involved with the people/topics we cover, which is why we try to include phone numbers with articles when it makes sense to do so. Especially with our travel columns, we will do a better job of featuring contact information with each article. ■ WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Email: Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com Mail: P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

COVER STORY

Can you spare a

urtis Swift has helped thousands of gardeners in his career as the CSU Horticultural Extension agent, training thousands of master gardeners and treating plant problems throughout the state. Now Swift needs help of a very specific kind: a kidney. Swift, a 76-year-old Vietnam veteran, was told he would need a kidney transplant or to go on dialysis for the rest of his life. Now he’s in the first stage of kidney failure. Because his kidneys don’t work, other organs can be poisoned. “Without a transplant the prognosis isn’t good,” Swift explained. “Failure is anything below 15. I’m at 10. My thinking has gotten foggy, I have problems reasoning, and making decisions is sometimes difficult. I love pizza, but tomatoes, cheese and a lot of other foods are off limits.” Swift is on the transplant list at the VA Hospital in Portland, Oregon. However, COVID-19 has impacted transplants and staffing.

kidney?

The cycle of impact by living organ donors By Jan Weeks

Even with one kidney, donors in excellent health (a requirement for such transplants) still have about 75-80 percent capacity to filter their own blood. Donations from relatives are best if they meet the criteria. So when Swift’s need became urgent, his son, Garrett, offered to give his dad one of his kidneys. “If I could extend my father’s life, it would be worth it to go through the discomfort and lose a kidney,” he said. Unfortunately, the hospital's transplant center will only consider one potential donor at a time, and the process can take six to nine months. "Patience is one thing I’ve learned along this journey,” said Swift. “It takes time to go through the process to find and replace a failing part.” Even with one kidney, donors in excellent health (a requirement for such transplants) still have about 75-80 percent capacity to filter their own blood. Living donations don’t change life expectancy, according to the National Kidney Foundation, and it doesn’t appear to increase the risk of kidney failure. But if a donor needs a kidney later in life, they jump to the top of the list for a transplant.

8 | COVER STORY | APRIL 2022

Organ donations from relatives are best if they meet the criteria. So when Curtis Swift's need became urgent, his son, Garrett, offered to give him one of his kidneys.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Vernann Raney, right, donated part of her liver to saver her sister Laura, left. Vernann Raney, 59, of Grand Junction, knows the dangers and joys of saving another’s life. When her younger sister, Laura, began to experience nausea, confusion and tiredness at age 40, she went to her doctor. A genetic disorder kept her lungs and liver from working in tandem, and she would eventually need a new liver. “I donate blood regularly and knew that I was A positive—the same as Laura,” said Raney, a School District 51 educator. “If I could extend her life I would do it in a heartbeat!” Since the liver regenerates itself, she would lose only part of her liver to save Laura.

walking miracle after receiving a double lung transplant in April 2021. About a year earlier, Spradlin went to the doctor because he was short of breath and had knee trouble. His orthopedist recommended a CT scan to look for blood clots. The results showed massive lung damage. A double lung transplant was his only hope of survival. Within a month, Spradlin was on oxygen 24 hours a day. “A couple of times I came close to running out. Not being able to breathe was the scariest thing that ever happened to me,” he said. Two weeks of intensive testing showed a transplant was possible, Spradlin and his wife, Sara Martz, chose St. Joseph’s Norton Transplant Center in Phoenix, which required registering with the Donor Network of Arizona and establishing Arizona residency within three hours of the hospital. They went back and forth between Colorado and Arizona. Then on April 29, 2021, the call came.

RECOVERED BUT NOT CURED Spradlin went into surgery at 7:15 a.m. and was back in ICU by noon. Physical and occupational therapy began the next day and by the second day, he was walking. Martz was stunned by his recovery. “Less than 48 hours after surgery, they removed his ventilator. He had full use of his vocal cords, and was able to eat immediately,” she remarked. Spradlin was discharged from the hospital

EVERY MOMENT COUNTS In May 2018, Raney began a round of blood tests, psychological tests, x-rays, CT scans and mammograms. She was a match. The sisters were given separate surgery teams for surgery scheduled in December. But within a month or two, Raney received a message from Laura that said: Can you be here in two weeks? A cadaver liver donation had fallen through and Laura needed a liver right away. So Raney headed for the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix. On July 12, 2018, the sisters went into separate surgeries. Raney returned to work in September. She has only a large scar, and has returned to skiing, hiking, swimming and having an occasional cocktail. “I’m enjoying life fully—with my sister!” said Raney. Laura spent three years getting her blood levels to a point that she could go back to work, and will always have to take anti-rejection medicine. Rib City Grill owner Mike Spradlin is another

Living donation

is an incredible way you can help save the life of someone waiting for an organ transplant. Through living donation, a living person can donate a kidney or part of the liver, lung, intestine or pancreas to another person in need of a transplant. Learn more about becoming an organ donor at www.donoralliance.org or call 303-3294747.

Donate to Curtis Although the hospital will only consider one organ donor at a time, you can make a monetary donation to help Swift with expenses related to finding and receiving a kidney, and to aid during his recovery. Donate to www.gofund.me/25689313 or stop by or mail a check to Mesa Lavender Farms, 545 North Ave., Suite A, Grand Junction, CO 81501.

in one week. Five weeks later, he was home in Colorado. The doctors warned him that he isn’t cured. He must call the transplant coordinator immediately at the first sign of a sniffle, a stomach ache, or anything other than healthy and normal. “I’ll know the transplant team rest of my life,” said Spradlin. “I used key lime pie from the restaurant to get preferential treatment, and it’s working great so far!” Spradlin stressed the importance of honoring your caretaker, which in his case is his wife. “It’s a huge responsibility,” he explained. “They go through the same emotional things patients do. They worry for you, themselves and the family.” ■

Mike’s Breath-Day Golf Tournament To celebrate the first anniversary of his transplant, Spradlin will play in a charity golf tournament to benefit lung transplant recipients and research at Fruita's Adobe Creek Golf Course on April 30.

Mike Spradlin wears a shirt that reads, "Contains Recycled Parts" following his double lung transplant.

To participate or sponsor, email NoMo02. golf@gmail.com or call Martz at 970-9850061. (See back cover for details) WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Burglars, robbers and thieves, oh my! Sensible ways to prevent burglary and what to do if you’re home By Kimberly Blaker

ou’re nearly asleep when suddenly, you’re startled by a noise. Instantly, you’re paralyzed by the fear of an intruder. Fortunately, most of those bumps in the night turn out to be little more than the ice maker or house settling. Nonetheless, the U.S. Department of Justice reports approximately 3.7 million burglaries occur each year. So how can you protect your home and yourself? Prevention is the best line of defense. But it’s equally important to be prepared and know what to do should a burglary occur when you’re at home.

LOCK YOUR FRONT DOOR The front door is one of the most common entry points for burglars. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for burglars to knock on the front door to see if anyone’s home. There are several things you can do to prevent unwanted entry into your home through doors. • Keep doors locked at all times, whether you’re home or not. • Install a deadbolt on all doors. Proper installation is crucial, so consider hiring a locksmith. • Install a peephole. • Eliminate or frame-in sidelight windows. Security window film can also prevent entry, or at least slow down a burglar.

ENFORCE WINDOWS AND PATIO DOORS Typically, sliding glass doors don’t come with very secure locks. Consider adding a keyed patio door lock and security pin, or add something as simple as a security bar or wooden dowel in the door track. The same is true of windows. Consider adding a security window film to make the glass more difficult to break. Decorative security film will also add privacy, and can even be used on patio doors. The thicker the film, the more effective it is in preventing glass breakage. Finally, make it a habit to lock your windows every time you close them, as it’s easy to forget about them when you leave or go to bed.

SECURITY ALARMS FOR EVERY BUDGET Today, there are window and door alarms to fit nearly every budget. Although security alarms don’t block access, they can be a deter-

10 | APRIL 2022 |

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rent. Many burglars are scared off when an alarm sounds. You’ll also be alerted if someone does enter your home. Depending on the alarm and service plan you have, it may put in a call to the police as well. Some would-be burglars avoid homes with a security system sign posted outside. However, many burglars realize people often post signs when they don’t have a security system and that most people often don’t arm their systems. This also goes for doorbell cameras and smart home automation. Before you purchase security alarms, do your research and get the best you can afford.

KEEP YOUR LIGHTS ON Make sure all entry points to your home, including windows, are well lit. This serves as a deterrent and also makes braver burglars more visible to you, neighbors or passersby. If you don’t want lights on all the time, install motion lights.

SLEEP WITH YOUR CAR KEYS NEXT TO YOUR BED. IF YOU HEAR A BURGLAR, HIT THE PANIC BUTTON. SOMETIMES THIS WILL SCARE OFF AN INTRUDER WHO FEARS NEIGHBORS WILL WAKE.

Wall mount solar lights are a very affordable option. You can typically find half a dozen lights for around $25. Having the lights on indoors also deters burglars by creating the perception someone is home and awake. Leave one or two lights on in the main rooms of your home at night or when you’re away.

MORE PREVENTION TIPS • Don’t hide a key under the doormat, planter or elsewhere.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS escape a fire. • Lock your bedroom door at night. That way you’ll be able to hear if someone tries breaking into your room. Because bedroom door locks are easy to pick, consider installing keyed door knobs.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology makes home security options more accessible and affordable than ever. Outdoor cameras and doorbells from Ring, SimpliSafe and Google Nest are relatively easy to use and install. • Keep shrubs and trees around your home trimmed, particularly near access points, so burglars don’t have a place to hide. • Install window coverings on all windows and close them at night so burglars can’t see in. • Keep your car locked at all times. This is very important if you have a garage door opener in your car. Also, make sure the opener isn’t in view. • Lock the door from your garage to your home. Many burglars are able to access garages that are locked or secured by garage door openers.

WHAT IF A BURGLARY OCCURS WHEN YOU’RE HOME? Being prepared is crucial to reducing your risk of being a victim of violence. First, consider ways you can escape your home safely. Once you’ve developed a safety plan and backup plan, practice both so you’re prepared in the event of a burglary. • Have an escape ladder. Homes that aren’t at ground level pose additional challenges. An escape ladder stored in an easily accessible spot is a worthwhile investment. You can also use it to

• Choose a safe room. It can be a closet or bathroom that’s easily accessible, preferably with an escape route. Install a deadbolt on the door and, if possible, keep an extra phone in there. In the event burglars do try to enter the room you’re in, they'll likely realize you’re in there. Tell them “we’ve” called the police, so they don’t think you’re alone. • Arm yourself. Carefully consider the pros and cons of keeping a weapon near your bed or in your safe area and the type of weapon. (Know that pepper spray has a high incidence of not working. And when it does, the mist can end up in your own eyes.) Most burglars don’t intend to cause harm. But if they feel threatened, things can escalate. • Sleep with your car keys next to your bed. If you hear a burglar, hit the panic button. Sometimes this will scare off an intruder who fears neighbors will wake. • Keep your phone near your bed at night and fully charged. If a burglar is at your door and hasn’t yet gained access to your home, tell him through the locked door that you “and your husband” are home and have already called the police. Then immediately dial 911. If you think an intruder is already inside your home, you don’t know his intentions. Quietly grab your phone and lock yourself in a room, preferably one with an escape window. Be as quiet as possible and call 911. Give dispatch your address, that way if your call is disrupted, dispatch knows your location. Stay on the phone until dispatch informs you the police have arrived and it’s safe to come out. ■

get outside and enjoy your life!

Your mobility should never be limited by your ability. Regain your independence with Mobility Driven and our Outdoor Lifestyle Conversions! The Western Slope and surrounding areas have unlimited activities and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Mobility Driven’s Outdoor Lifestyle Conversions can help you get back on the trails and back to your active lifestyle. Tackle the terrain with a track chair, one of our ATV/UTV conversions, or contact us to see if we can modify your existing outdoor recreation vehicle!

We offer custom solutions to fit YOUR specific needs. Check out the photos and videos of our Lifestyle Conversions on our website and Facebook page and see how we can help you get back outside enjoying your life! We serve Western Colorado and Eastern Utah, as well as clients outside that area with specific project needs.

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Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe courtesy of Healthy Slow Cooker Cookbook, 2nd Edition

Servings: 4

Ingredients 1

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pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, visible fat discarded, cut into 1/2-inch cubes cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed cups fat-free, no-saltadded chicken broth can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added, diced tomatoes, undrained cup finely chopped onion teaspoon sugar

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teaspoon ancho powder medium garlic cloves, minced 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 corn tortillas (6 inches each), cut into 1/4-inch wide strips 1 corn tortilla (6 inches), torn into pieces 2-4 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup finely chopped avocado 1/4 medium red bell pepper, cut into matchstick-size strips

Directions: In slow cooker, stir chicken, corn, broth, tomatoes, onion, sugar, ancho powder, garlic and salt. Cook, covered, on low, 6-8 hours, or on high, 3-4 hours. Preheat oven to 350° F. On baking sheet, arrange tortilla strips in single layer. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until crisp. Transfer baking sheet to cooling rack. Let strips stand 15 minutes, or until cool. Transfer to airtight container and set aside. When soup is ready, transfer 1 cup to food processor or blender. Stir in tortilla pieces. Let mixture stand 1 minute. Process until smooth. Stir mixture into soup. Stir in cilantro. Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with avocado, bell pepper and reserved tortilla strips. ■

See more recipes at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com 12 | RECIPES | APRIL 2022 |

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Kitten season is here

PET PAGE INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

4 ways you can help them By Jenna Kretschman, Roice-Hurst Humane Society

pring is officially upon us, which means one thing to animal shelters: It’s kitten season! As you read this, hundreds of cats are reproducing in astronomical numbers. People are finding kittens in bushes, under trailers, inside sheds—and bringing them to shelters. While kitten season is undoubtedly the cutest time of year, caring for the constant stream of tiny felines is time consuming, expensive and emotionally taxing. An estimated 80 percent of all kittens born each year are born to outdoor community cats, and many of these kittens don’t survive past a few weeks old due to illness and other inherent dangers of living on the streets. The ones who do survive often don’t receive the human socialization they need in time to become friendly house cats, and ultimately become feral, continuing to add to the population. The good news? You can help save the lives of these kittens! Here are some ways you can help: 1. Ensure every cat you know has been spayed or neutered! The best way to solve this problem is to prevent it. Think about your cat, your friends’ cats, your neighbors’ cats and the random cats that show up on your porch. Make sure those cats are spayed or neutered, and educate other cat owners about the importance of doing the same. If you need assistance with the cost of surgery, or to borrow a humane cat trap, reach out to local animal welfare organizations for help. 2. Know what to do if you find kittens. You may stumble into a litter of kittens this spring or summer. Your next step will depend on their age, temperament and condition. When

in doubt, reach out to an animal shelter for guidance. If the kittens are newborn and look reasonably clean, quiet and plump, it’s likely that Mom is nearby. Newborns have the best chance of survival when being cared for by their mom. If the kittens are safe where they are and Mom is feral, it’s best to monitor the family until the babies are weaned around five weeks old. At that point, you can bring them into your house (or coordinate with a shelter for placement), and don’t forget to get Mom spayed! However, if you find newborn kittens and it’s clear that Mom is not coming back or the kittens are in danger, contact an animal shelter immediately for further instruction. 3. Donate kitten supplies to animal shelters. Between crucial supplies like formula, baby bottles, heating disks, food and litter, and medical care, the cost of raising even just one orphaned kitten can add up. When you donate kitten supplies or monetary gifts to animal shelters, you truly help save lives. 4. Sign up to foster kittens! Animal shelters can only care for so many animals on-site. It’s simply impossible to care for the hundreds of kittens we meet every year without the help of generous foster families. Bottle-fed kittens, weaned kittens, under-socialized kittens, nursing mom cats, and kittens with medical needs all require the love of a foster home. ■

Trust is earned Western Colorado has turned to Hilltop for compassionate care for over 70 years. Our award-winning senior living communities offer: 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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To learn more about how you can help, contact 970-434-7337 or www.rhhumanesociety.org. Find contact info for other local animal resources at www.beaconseniornews.com/ businesses

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.

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HEALTHY GEEZER

Got a tattoo? An MRI might be uncomfortable

f you have a tattoo, you should discuss it with your doctor before undergoing an MRI. Tattoos can create a misdiagnosis because the metal in tattoo pigments may interfere with the quality of the image from a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine.

PEOPLE WITH TATTOOS MAY EXPERIENCE SWELLING OR BURNING DURING AN MRI. In some rare cases, people with tattoos may experience swelling or burning during an MRI. A study done by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that almost one in four Americans between 18 and 50 are tattooed. My suspicion is that there aren’t as many seniors heading to tattoo parlors, although some may still have body art from their youth. Some of my contemporaries may decide to get their tattoos removed because the artwork faded or became blurred as their body changed with age. There are a variety of methods for removing

tattoos, but none are perfect. • Laser surgery is the most common method used today. A surgeon treats the tattoo pigment with a high-intensity laser beam. Many treatments may be needed to lighten the artwork, but may not completely erase it. • Dermabrasion is a technique that uses a wire brush or a diamond wheel to remove skin. This process may leave a scar. • Outpatient surgery. Tattoos can be removed by a dermasurgeon with local anesthesia. A surgeon uses a scalpel to cut out the

tattoo and then closes the wound with stitches. This surgery can leave a scar. Complications from tattoos are relatively uncommon. However, there are risks, including bloodborne diseases from contaminated needles; granulomas—bumps that can form around tattoos; keloids— scars that grow beyond normal boundaries; local bacterial infections and allergic reactions. If you decide to get a tattoo, make sure the establishment is licensed and reputable. ■

HEALTHY GEEZER

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The highs and lows of nutmeg I used freshly grated nutmeg in some homemade vanilla eggnog I made recently. Just so you know, it really does make a difference if you grate a whole nutmeg versus using powdered spice. The flavor is incredibly richer! Nevertheless, nutmeg is a super interesting spice with tons of health benefits. What’s particularly remarkable is that nutmeg naturally contains myristicin, a compound that can get you a little bit high. Its psychoactive properties might explain why that one relative gets all weird after Thanksgiving dinner. For sensitive individuals, it may be a little too much. Myristicin puts the sympathetic nervous system into action, which can cause fight-or-flight symptoms. In excess, one may experience dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, confusion and heart rhythm abnormalities. For those with pre-existing heart conditions, even a teaspoon or two can be fatal! The worst part is that children and teens are usually the ones getting into trouble because of the nutmeg challenge that’s trending on social media. The LSD-like effects don’t occur right away. The spice is fully ingested and absorbed into the bloodstream before the dreadful situation presents itself symptomatically. Before you go and trash the nutmeg in your home, myristicin is also in your parsley, anise, cinnamon, clove, fennel, parsley and basil—

just not as much. I don’t want to scare you away from nutmeg because it's a strong anti-inflammatory known to help with sleep, blood pressure, inflammation, stomach problems and pain. It also improves memory. And, if used correctly, nutmeg will enhance the flavor of any dish! Recipes call for very small amounts—usually one-quarter or half of a teaspoon to the batter or soup you’re making. Nutmeg is easily a superfood with tremendous health benefits. When abused it can lead to intoxication. Please read your recipes carefully and keep an eye on what your kids or grandkids are watching on social media. ■

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Family Health West was built from the ground up by our community – settled with health and prosperity in mind. Today, we look forward to the future, approaching new horizons in healthcare while taking forward that same spirit of dreaming to create a beautiful tomorrow we all believe is possible.

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DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN For more articles and advice, sign up for Suzy’s newsletter at www.SuzyCohen.com WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | HEALTH & WELLNESS |

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Don’t be duped by

food labels

The truth about expiration dates and how to identify marketing ploys By Wendell Fowler

Bringing Health Care Home to You

n marketing, product packaging and labeling play a vital role in increasing brand visibility and communicating the product’s value to shoppers. As consumers, they help us make more informed choices about the food we buy and the best way to store it. Based on survey results, National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that 52.5 percent consumers do not read the ingredients on food labels, and the half that do don’t necessarily understand what they’re reading. While food labels are the most valuable tools consumers have, they can also be misleading. Here are some tips for reading the ingredients on food and beverage labels, the truth about expiration dates, and how to identify marketing ploys.

INGREDIENTS LIST Product ingredients are listed by quantity—from highest to lowest amount. Healthline.

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com states a good rule of thumb is to scan the first three ingredients, as they make up the largest part of what you're eating. If an ingredients list is longer than three lines, you can assume the product is likely highly processed. When in doubt, if you can’t pronounce it, denounce it!

SERVINGS, CALORIES AND PROTEIN The number of servings is not a recommendation of how much we should eat or drink, just the typical amount people do eat or drink. Pay close attention to the amount of protein and the number of calories in a serving. Adult men need about 56 grams of protein a day and adult women need about 46 grams daily.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Calories provide a measure of how much energy you get from a serving of a particular food. The number of servings consumed determines calories eaten. The number of calories you should consume largely depends on the quality of the calories, as well as your age, sex, height, weight and physical activity level.

THE TRUTH ABOUT EXPIRATION DATES The expiration dates on packaged food are typically guidelines, not rules. The New York Times reports, “Food product dating is completely voluntary for all products. It has nothing to do with safety. It acts solely as the manufacturer’s best guess as to when its product will no longer be at peak quality. Food manufacturers tend to be conservative with those dates.” Insider.com states that although it’s still important to check the packaging for expired dates, there are quite a few foods where the date has no significance. Dry, boxed pasta, for example, can last for quite some time if unopened. Oftentimes, expired bread is fine to eat if you don't see mold. Dried beans and lentils will remain safe to eat for years after purchase. When it comes to oils, follow your nose. Old oil will start to develop metallic, soapy, or in some cases (such as with canola oil), fishy smells.

MISLEADING MARKETING Consumer Reports reported that 62 percent of shoppers look for foods labeled “natural” because they believe them to be healthier, when in fact, there’s no universal definition or regulation for the word in product marketing. This may mislead consumers to believing that foods labeled as natural have no artificial ingredients, chemicals or pesticides, and hasn’t been genetically modified, which isn’t always the case. Similarly, just because the packaging reads “no added sugar” doesn’t mean the product is sugar-free. If no sugar or sugar-containing products were added during processing, then a product can be labeled as such, even though it still may contain natural sugars, artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols. Containers of pure honey, pure maple syrup, or packages of pure sugar are not required to declare grams of added sugars in a serving, NIH states, but they must still include a declaration of the percent daily value (%DV) for each nutrient or vitamin in a serving, which references amounts of nutrients to consume or not to exceed daily.

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Apparently, it wasn’t set high enough. • Big-a-mist: an Italian fog. • Have you noticed “The” and “IRS” spells theirs?

BAD ATTITUDE

Submitted by Bob Breazeale A famous actress was hired by a big cosmetics company as a spokesperson and consultant. But because of her overbearing attitude, her obnoxious comments and her snooty treatment of the employees, she was fired after only one week. A reporter asked the CEO of the company what happened. The CEO said, “She was hired because of her poise and personality. She was fired because of her poison personality.”

SOME PUNS

Submitted by Ben Kuckel • A few puns make me numb, but math puns make me number. • I wanted to be a monk, but I never got the chants.

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• To the thief who stole my glasses: I will find you. I have contacts. • My friend David had his ID stolen. Now he’s just Dav.

• If your guy doesn’t appreciate fresh fruit puns, let that mango!

VOODOO DOLL

• Man injured in bizarre peek-a-boo accident! He’s in ICU.

Submitted by Jan Weeks My wife yelled from upstairs and asked, “Do you ever get a shooting pain across your body, like someone got a voodoo doll of you and they’re stabbing it?” I replied, “No.” She responded, “How about now?”

• Why can’t you trust an atom? Because they make up everything!

ARMY BASIC TRAINING

• My friend was explaining electricity and I was like, “Watt?” • The finest shoes are made of smooth leather. My opinion will never be suede.

• Where did the Terminator find toilet paper? Aisle B, Back. • Police car loses wheels to thief! Cops are working tirelessly to nab suspect. • A perfectionist walked into a bar.

Submitted by Steve Schoolfield When I went through basic training, some of the drill sergeants were abusive. But some of the recruits were tough and could take it. Some of the recruits who were abused used to brag about it. One

morning after chow, one recruit bragged to me, “My drill sergeant punched me square in the mouth!” Another recruit bragged, “My drill sergeant kicked me square in the rear!” A third recruit bragged, “My drill sergeant slapped the mess out of me!” They asked me what my drill sergeant did to me. I replied proudly, “He popped me in the head with a pencil!”

YOU KNOW YOU’RE GETTING OLDER WHEN… Submitted by Crystal Cartwright • You and your teeth don’t sleep together.

• You try to straighten out the wrinkles in your socks and discover you aren’t wearing any. • You hear snap, crackle, pop, and you’re not eating cereal. • Your back goes out but you stay home. • When you wake up looking like

Reverse Mortgage

1. How much equity do I need in my house?? The easy answer is 50%. This amount will vary – either higher or lower – depending on the age of the borrowers and the lender’s pricing. The younger you are, the less of a loan you qualify for, conversely, the older you are, the more you can get! The amount is calculated off the age of the youngest borrower. 2. At what age can I obtain a reverse mortgage? You must be 62 to obtain a reverse mortgage. However, if you are married, then it is possible to obtain a reverse if one of you is younger than 62. HUD recently changed the guidelines to protect the spouse that is under 62. 3. What is the maximum value my house can have? The maximum value used to determine your loan amount or “maximum claim amount” on an FHAinsured reverse is $970,800. This means that even if your home is valued at $2,000,000, the maximum value of your home that the lender could use to determine your loan amount or “principal limit” would be $970,800. HOWEVER, (there’s always a “however” ????, there is a Jumbo Reverse Program that does not fall under HUD guidelines that will allow a value up to $4,000,000.

18 | LAUGHING MATTERS | APRIL 2022 |

4. How long does it take to get a reverse? I have heard some extremely lengthy time frames from online lenders---as much as 6 months to a year, but at Town & Country Finance our average processing time from application to closing is 30 – 45 days. 5. Do I have to complete counseling before I can apply for a reverse loan? Yes, you must complete an over-the-phone counseling session with a third party knowledgeable in reverse mortgages. We have a list of available counselors at our office. 6. What is the first step if I want to find out more about this type of loan? The first step is to call our office. Jenny or I will be happy to visit with you about your specific situation and provide you with a written preliminary estimate of the amount of loan you can expect and the costs involved. We are also happy to send you the free HUD booklet “Use Your Home to Stay at Home” as well as a list of reverse mortgage counselors. 7. Will Tom Selleck be at my closing??? So Sorry ladies!! Tom won’t be there! Haha, I know it’s not the same, but I can assure you I will!

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LAUGHING MATTERS your driver’s license picture. • When your idea of a night out is sitting on the patio. • When happy hour is a nap. • When all you want for your birthday is to not be reminded of your age. • When you step off a curb and look down one more time to make sure the street is still there. • Your idea of weight lifting is standing up. • Your address book has mostly names that start with Dr. • You sit in a rocking chair and can’t get it going. • The pharmacist has become your new best friend. • The twinkle in your eye is merely a reflection from the sun on your bifocals. • It takes twice as long to look half as good. • You look for your glasses for half an hour and they were on your head the whole time. • You give up all your bad habits and still don’t feel good. • You finally get your head together and your body starts falling apart. • You wonder how you could be over the hill when you don’t even remember being on top of it.

LAST YEAR’S GIFT

Submitted by John Neal One year, I decided to buy my mother-in-law a cemetery plot as a Christmas gift. The next year, I didn’t buy her anything. When she

asked why, I said, “Well, you still haven’t used the gift I bought you last year!”

WIFE’S BIRTHDAY

Submitted by Jan Weeks It’s my wife’s birthday tomorrow. She’s been leaving jewelry catalogs all over the house, so I bought her a magazine rack.

TRICKING THE TOOTH FAIRY

Submitted by Victoria Hendricks 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!”

FREEDOM

Submitted by M. L. Madsen A prisoner escapes from jail by digging a tunnel and finds himself in a toddler playground. As he emerges from the hole he yells, “I’m free! I’m free!” A small boy watching him walks up and says, “So? Big deal! I’m 4!”

LEARNING THE TRUTH Submitted by Marianne Rossini Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what the heck happened. ■

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Community Concerts of the Grand Valley Concer t Series

Crocodile rockin’

Elton John tribute wraps up Community Concerts season By Jan Weeks

im Witter is not an Elton John impersonator although he rocks the stage with Sir Elton’s songs. Instead, he describes himself as a tribute artist. “I have been performing a tribute to Elton and Billy Joel—The Piano Men, as I call them—for nearly 20 years now,” said Witter, 56. “Their music is timeless, and it just seems people do not get tired of hearing these classic songs.” Audiences often come to hear the music of John, Joel, the Beatles, and Simon and Garfunkel. Kids that attend have usually been introduced to it by parents and grandparents. The Elton solo tribute is a brandnew show for Witter, who said he’s very excited to be able to cover more of his incredible catalogue. In his tribute to Sir Elton, Witter doesn’t dress as flamboyantly, though he said, there will be a little bit of costuming in the show.

Jim Witter | Elton John Tribute May 7 • 7:30 p.m. • Avalon Theatre “Although so many people think of outrageous costumes when they think of Elton, I believe it was his music that solidified his place in rock history, and that if he had never worn a costume once, he would still be the star he is now,” said Witter. “I really wanted this show to focus on the music.”

ROCKET MAN FAN Canadian-born Witter grew up on Elton John’s music. One of the first records he remembers hearing on his family’s stereo was “Honky Chateau,” and he loved every song on that album. He spun his 45 rpm recording of Elton’s “Someone Saved My Life Tonight,” when he was a kid, using a flashlight as a stage light and a

hairbrush for a microphone as he belted out the song. Although singing was his passion, he taught himself to play piano when he was about 12 years old, and his brother taught him to play guitar. He still plays, in addition to a few other instruments, yet he considers his voice his main instrument. Witter was a successful recording artist in Canada in the 1990s. Then he got signed by Curb Records in Nashville, and launched his nostalgia shows while he was waiting for Curb to put out one of his records. He’s been doing them ever since.

MORE THAN A JOB

of Witter’s job, he said, “is hopping on that stage every night and watching people come alive as they listen to these old songs that take them back. You can start with a laid back, quiet audience, but by the end of the show they are rocking!” Of course, he’s not too fond of being away from his wife and four children, even though some of his kids are grown and gone. The upside makes up for the loneliness as Witter shares his love of music with people all over the U.S., Canada, and other parts of the world. “It’s fascinating to see that this music has the same effect on people all over this world. I feel so lucky to do this job, if you can call it that.” Like so many artists, being ambushed by COVID has made Witter appreciate his work and he can’t wait to get back on the road. Grand Junction audiences have a great show to look forward to at the Avalon Theatre on Saturday, May 7. ■

The most interesting and fun part

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What happens to Suzie in Elton John’s hit song, “Crocodile Rock”? ________________________________________________ Name____________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________ Email____________________________________________ Send in your answer by April 15 to be entered into a drawing for two tickets to see Jim Witter’s Elton John tribute show at the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction. Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com Mail: BEACON Senior News PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81504 For the rest of this season’s lineup, visit www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.org.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 |

GROW WILD

Give back to the planet on Earth Day Sustainable gardening solutions to Earth's environmental challenges

oday, home gardeners and large-scale growers have the knowledge, tools and resources necessary to produce big, bountiful crops. But the hidden costs of using chemical fertilizers and pesticides to produce large yields is alarming. Groundwater contamination, erosion, mineral lack in the soil, produce with low-nutrient profiles and declines of beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies are all costs to chemical food production that we don’t pay for at the cash register. Fortunately, there are sustainable gardening solutions that are better for us and for the earth. In honor of Earth Day on April 22, let’s take a look at how we can become better stewards of our gardens and our planet.

COMPOST, MANURE AND MULCH

REPEAT AND REGENERATE

We can create mulch by adding old leaves, straw, newspaper and cardboard to the soil.

Sustainable gardening focuses on repeatable practices that don’t deplete, pollute or destroy natural resources. It means making our own fertilizers and building up soil profiles so that each year we can grow again. Sustainable growers work with local ecosystems to conserve water rather than plant high-water demanding crops in a desert environment. They also save some

plants to produce seeds for next year. That’s a repeatable approach to gardening. Regenerative growers take this a step further by building up growing systems and making them better. They incorporate biodiversity into their gardens and create habitats for natural predators that take care of pests. These growers take steward-

ship seriously by taking care of the natural resources loaned to them for future generations by increasing the amount of organic matter in the soil. Adding compost, manure and mulch in our gardens is good for plants and soil microbes. It also makes them more resilient to drought and heat stress, so we don't have to water as often.

The easiest way to add organic matter back into the soil is by leaving crop debris in the garden and allowing the nutrients to break down for successive crops. We grow basil for the leaves, yet the branches, stems and roots are also loaded with nutrients, carbon and trace minerals. However, the best form of organic matter is compost. Quality compost contains a variety of plant nutrients but also harbors bacteria, fungi and protozoa that all work to break down aggregate chunks of compost and native soil into a form that plant roots can actually absorb. In the fall, applying aged animal manure (at least six months old) can mitigate any pathogens in the soil. USDA Certified Organic standards allow for adding animal manure to crops that don’t touch the soil no less than 90 days before harvest, and no less than 120 days for crops that do touch soil. It’s good to use rabbit and llama manure because it can break down quickly in the soil due to its small size. Horse, sheep and goat manures are easy to come by and contain actinobacteria that’s good for cycling nutrients in the soil. Cow

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CALL US BEFORE YOU BUY AN EXPENSIVE NEW COOLING OR HEATING SYSTEM The easiest way to add organic matter back into the soil is by leaving crop debris in the garden, allowing the nutrients to break down for successive crops. manure can be dicey, as they eat large amounts of weed seed, which could migrate to your garden. We can create mulch by adding old leaves, straw, newspaper and cardboard to the soil. During the growing season, mulch protects the soil around plants from high temperatures and drying winds. It also keeps moisture in the soil. At the end of the season, all the organic material breaks down to create nutrients, topsoil and soil stability so that next year’s crop is even better.

DO YOUR PART Certified organic foods have skyrocketed in sales and popularity as consumers vote with their dollar for farming practices they support. Do your part in helping solve some of the Earth’s environmental challenges by growing more plants, buying organic produce and adding organic matter into your garden. It’s the best gift we can give our planet this Earth Day as well as every day. ■

GROW WILD

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Dinosaurs

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Senior volunteers dig their work at Fruita dino museum By Diana Barnett

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om Lawrence became a dinosaur lover at age 6. Now at 74, he has found his second childhood and a second calling as a volunteer at Dinosaur Journey in Fruita. While living in California, Lawrence became acquainted with George Callison, a paleontologist who introduced him to fossil exploration and took him on digs. After moving to Grand Junction, Lawrence brought his sons to Dinosaur Journey and started volunteering once he retired from School District 51 in 2010. “I loved going in the field and on field trips with paleontologist John Foster and museum director Mike Perry,” said Lawrence. “A highlight of my time was when a family in Appleton discovered fossilized bones of Cretaceous fish in Manco shale. Their youngster found a tooth and brought it in to be identified. Our

museum staff went out to investigate and participated in the dig.” Grand Valley native Dorothy Stewart, 79, started volunteering at the museum in 1993. She has worked as a docent in all three Museum of Western Colorado locations. “When I started, the dinosaur operations of the museum were located in the old JC Penney building downtown,” said Stewart. “I worked in clay casting, then eventually came to the lab in our current location.” Stewart absolutely loves working in the lab. Her current project is piecing together a bone that was taken from the Curecanti site near Blue Mesa Reservoir on the Gunnison River. “We don’t know what it is from yet,” said Stewart, “But it’s exciting to know you’re the first person to touch something that old and the

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Dinosaur Journey volunteers Tom Lawrence, Kay Fredette and Dorothy Stewart at a dig site.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

first to work on it.” Kay Fredette has volunteered at the museum since 1986, spanning six museum paleontologists. As the lab supervisor, she oversees volunteers who prepare fossils for study or exhibit. “Lots of original science comes out of the lab,” said Fredette, 83. “We dig, clean and research the bones, then our paleontologist does a study, trying to determine what happened after the critter died.” The paleontologist then adds the data to a catalog and database to make it accessible by others. All fossils belong to the Smithsonian and are managed by the BLM. For Stewart and Fredette, the highlight of their tenure at Dino-

saur Journey was discovering an Allosaurus leg bone while digging in Rabbit Valley. It’s now on display at the museum. “Words cannot express how much our volunteers do for us,” said the museum’s paleontologist Dr. Julia McHugh. “These wonderful people spend countless hours working in rough and very hot conditions in our quarries, helping set up and tear down every day. I am amazed by their commitment to our work.” Lawrence, Stewart and Fredette have a combined 74 years of experience at the museum. The three of them are all active in the digs at Rabbit Valley, which take place June through August. At the quarry, they coach and teach expedition participants. “Mike Perry began the digs to let the public experience how these bones are found, cared for and preserved,” said Fredette. She recalled the first expedition, which included a group of Japanese students with their translator. “They were thrilled to see real cowboys on horseback and the dig site at Riggs Hill,” she said. ■

GRAND JUNCTION

Stop by booth #N19 at to find out more about volunteering! E N T E RTA I N M E N T Thursday, April 28, 2022

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Become an SOS Volunteer and help provide rides and independence to homebound seniors. Supporting Our Seniors (SOS) is a transportation program that provides rides to homebound seniors age 60 and over. Our volunteers provide seniors a ride to the grocery store, pharmacy, and medical appointments, helping them maintain their independence. We are currently seeking volunteers who have their own vehicle, valid driver’s license, registration, and insurance. We offer flexible schedules and mileage reimbursement. To become a volunteer, please call:

Join the dino-mite team at Dinosaur Journey

970-248-2851 or apply online at

For more information, visit www. museumofwesternco.com/about/ volunteer or call 970-242-0971.

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Vote for Volunteer of the Year by April 22! 1) Read about each volunteer at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com 2) Select your favorite volunteer from the list 3) Cast your vote online or mail this official ballot to: PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Online voting closes and mail-in ballots must be received by 4 p.m. on Friday, April 22 All honorees will be recognized at BeaconFest on Thursday, April 28, 2022, and the reader-selected Volunteer of the Year will be announced!

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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hile out with our friends in their new SUV, the question of whether we four seniors would ever own anything other than an eco-unfriendly, gas-powered vehicle was entertained. Both of us couples agreed that we would be pure miles-per-gallon drivers until our keys were turned in—no switching to hybrids or electric for us. This admission was fine with my wife and me, as we have always been rearguard rather than avant-garde.

I realized we would not be trendsetters early on when we attended a New Year's Eve party in the early 1980s, where the hosts screened a movie on the TV using a thing called a Betamax. We appreciated the luxury of watching a fairly recent movie on TV instead of a “classic” on The Movie Loft, but it was far from our regular peak cinematic experiences in a movie theater, popcorn debris notwithstanding. When VCRs became a fixture in

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Find out how A Little Help volunteers help older adults in the community. www.alittlehelp.org or call 970-404-1923

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

d o w n t o w n

home computer generation. We purchased a HP Pavilion and signed up for AOL. Being an information junkie, I really appreciated getting information at the speed of light via the internet versus my old reference books. Even though we have gone from Windows 95 to Windows 10, my wife and I balk at the recent trend to invite robots into our house. We do not have a Roomba or an Alexa. We had one, given to us by our millennial son, but he mentioned that his roommate, a Microsoft IT guy, said that Alexa may possibly be spying on us. My wife uses Siri sometimes, but I tough it out by looking things up myself. Even though I am a rearguard regular on adapting the quotidian improvements of technology, I am awed by the other-worldly possibility of a human on Mars within the next 20 years. Though iffy, living to see a real life Martian would be a great bookend for my life after witnessing at age 18 the transcendent moment of Apollo 11's touchdown on the moon in 1969. Indeed, witnessing the “giant step for mankind” moment of a Martian landing will be a lifetime highlight, even if I am stuck watching it flanked by new-fangled senior-citizen robot friends. ■

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homes circa 1984, we bought one, but continued going regularly to our local movie theaters. We did, however, sign up for cable right away but it didn't arrive in our town until 1990, so we were still solidly rearguard cable-wise. Also in the early 1980s, we relented and added air-conditioning to our driving experience. On our way to visit my wife's Philly relatives from our August vacation base of Atlantic City, we got stuck on the Tacony-Palmyra bridge on a hot day. Rolling down the windows on our 1976 Pinto didn't invite in enough cooling air. We weren't on a bridge over a troubled marriage, but with each interminable minute on the bridge, my wife clamored for A/C in our next car, to which I agreed. After all, more than half of all cars had A/C by 1969. Around 1990, some friends gave us a used Apple computer. By this time, personal computers where fairly common in college-educated households like ours. We initially made an effort to use our Apple. We even took a course! It was an intriguing machine, but honestly, we didn't really get it. Our Apple PC was relegated to unused junk, and we were computerless until 1995. By this time, we were finally ready to be part of the

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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he Valley Symphony Association (VSA) Board of Directors confirmed that long-time VSA Orchestra Conductor Michael J. Kern has announced that he will be retiring at the end of April. Kern has been conducting the VSA Orchestra since 1993. He is a graduate of Butler University in Indianapolis with a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in music composition. He will conduct the final concerts of the VSA’s Jubilee Season at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 23 and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 24 at the Montrose Pavilion. The theme, “Let’s Dance!” will speak to the unity among the arts and how they draw on each other for inspiration. The concert will showcase dance styles through the ages and feature live dance performances. “I have enjoyed seeing the orchestra grow in numbers and ability in my 27-plus years as the conductor,” Kern said. “Judging an

Valley Symphony Association Orchestra Conductor Michael J. Kern. ensemble’s capability is something learned over time, and understanding the diverse backgrounds of the musicians in your charge is no easy task. It takes patience and caring, and I do care deeply for the musicians whom I conduct. Many have become good friends.” The VSA is in the midst of its milestone 50th season. A regional

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS all-volunteer performing arts organization, VSA supports musicians of all ages and walks of life who hail from throughout the Western Slope, including the Uncompahgre, Grand and North Fork Valleys. Kern acknowledged the unique and special nature of having such a cultural organization is to the region and how it all hinges on the willingness of volunteer musicians to selflessly share their gifts.

“WHAT HE’S ACCOMPLISHED AND GIVEN IN SERVICE TO OUR REGIONAL COMMUNITY IS NO SMALL THING.” “Our musicians give so much to the VSA. They all have lives to live yet dedicate themselves to our orchestra. As volunteer musicians, they donate their time to rehearse, practice, and perform with the talent they have personally cultivated for years, if not decades,” Kern said. The VSA’s goal is to ensure that future generations will enjoy the legacy of live orchestral and choral

music that so magnificently celebrates the human spirit. “Please continue to offer your support to the wonderful musicians who make up this organization through your attendance at concerts and being generous with your support,” said Kern. The VSA board will announce the selection process for the next orchestra conductor in the coming months. “While we respect Mike’s decision and are happy for him, we’re sad for us, as it's truly the end of an era,” VSA Board President Hartland H. Clubb, Jr., said. “He’s dedicated over a quarter-century to the organization and grown tremendously as its conductor; what he’s accomplished and given in service to our regional community is no small thing.” For information, upcoming concerts and news on VSA’s 2022-2023 season, the audition process and tickets, visit VSA’s Facebook page, www.valleysymphony.org or call 970-275-8676. Check out the Montrose-Delta Calendar on page 52 for VSA’s upcoming concerts. ■

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TRAVEL

Visit the most over-the-top malls in the U.S. By Victor Block

very member of the Taylor family found something of interest and entertainment. Bob hung out at the miniature golf course and later tested his accuracy throwing axes at targets. His wife Evelyn searched for the bald eagles that like to hang out along the nearby lake, then took in a show at the comedy club. Their son Roger preferred to speed around the Go-Kart track and do his best to avoid getting hit on the bumper car ride. The fact that this family found all of these activities in one place was unusual. What made it even more unique was they found it all at a shopping mall.

THE RISE OF SHOPPING MALLS For decades, shoppers have been drawn to malls primarily for their variety of stores and restaurants. The growth of suburbs and rise of automobile culture in the mid20th century launched an explosion of shopping malls away from inner cities and into residential neighborhoods. In the 1990s, close to 150 malls sprang up each year. Then came online shopping. Malls that had been go-to shopping destinations suddenly seemed out of date. Hundreds have closed their doors. In recent years, Mark Cohen, professor and retail business spe-

cialist at University of Columbia, predicts that, of the approximately 1,000 malls still operating, half will be gone within five to six years. Rather than accepting this outlook without a fight, some mall owners have combatted the trend by adding new attractions that can appeal to people of all ages and interests. Here are some of the country’s most thrilling entertainment sites that are giving new meaning to the words “shopping mall.”

The Mall of America | Twin Cities, MN The Mall of America in Minnesota’s Twin Cities (www.mallofamerica. com, 952-883-8800) is also known for its efforts to reduce waste and follow sustainable practices. These range from growing 30,000 plants and 400 trees for air purification, having over a mile of skylights for passive solar energy, and recycling tons of food waste for local hog farmers. The mall houses a 27-ride theme park, a 1.3 million-gallon aquarium containing 10,000 sea creatures, and a flight simulation tour of the United States. People entering the Escape Game are challenged with getting out of prison and stealing back a famous painting from the thief who had pilfered it.

Legoland Discovery Center | Philadelphia, PA LEGO fans love the LEGOLAND Discovery Center (www.legoland discoverycenter.com, 267-245-9696), a veritable indoor LEGO playground. Visitors can jump on the Imagination Express for an interactive tour of a world inhabited by larger-than-life LEGO characters, or participate in activities at the Build Challenge Arena.

The Outlet Collection | Seattle, WA

The Go-Kart track is one of many attractions at The Mall of America.

30 | TRAVEL | APRIL 2022 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

More energetic activities challenge participants in Fitness Fridays at The Outlet Collection (www.outletcollectionseattle.com, 253-833-1790). This grouping of discount stores offers an energetic dance experience, combining fitness with fun. It also hosts occasional blood donation drives, hazardous waste disposal collections and celebrations of events like World Kindness Day and Native American Heritage Month.

TRAVEL Destiny USA | Syracuse, NY Destiny USA (www.destinyusa.com, 315-466-6000), a massive shopFuller. ■ ping, entertainment and dining venue in Syracuse, New York, welcomes more than 26 million guests each year. It even has its own zip code and on-site hotel. It contains a bowling alley, laser tag, a science and technology attraction, an escape room, an interactive mystery theater and an antique carousel constructed in 1909. In an effort to reduce the impact of such an active infrastructure on the environment, Destiny USA follows a number of practices, earning it a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification. It’s the largest commercial retail building in the world to be so honored.

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Some malls offer pursuits geared for folks seeking a bit of physical activity. That’s true at The Galleria in Houston, Texas (www.simon.com/ mall/the-galleria, 713-966-3500). “Polar Ice” is a full-size ice-skating rink, which in 1970, was the first built inside a mall. Nearby are swimming pools and a jogging track that runs around the roof.

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Other centers double as gardens and art galleries. Palm Court is a plaza that incorporates native species of palm trees from Florida and the Caribbean into its landscape. Located in the city’s Design District (www.miamidesigndistrict.net, 305722-7100), it’s lined with a public art collection. The focus is the iconic geodesic dome, designed by renowned architect Buckminster Fuller. ■

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Countdown to summer diet

This 7-day eating plan will help you lose 1-2 pounds a week 7-DAY MEAL PLANNER MENU

By Sandra Gordon

wimsuit season is upon us. If you have weight you want gone, this mega-healthy 1,500-calorie low-fat diet features lots of delicious peak-season fresh fruits and vegetables and enough Mexican flair to keep your taste buds happy. Best of all, it’s so safe and healthy that you can repeat it for as many weeks necessary to get down to your goal weight. Just don’t forget that diet is only one part of the equation. This diet, created by the world-renowned Rancho La Puerta Spa in Tecate, Mexico, puts a strong emphasis on exercise as well. So make sure to hit the gym or get outside for a walk, run or bike ride at least three days a week while you’re on the diet. Bon appétit!

GROUND RULES • Calorie counts are roughly the same for each meal, so if you want to replace a meal with one from another day or would like to repeat a meal two days in a row, that’s fine. • You’ll eat plenty of food at meals, plus one afternoon snack. But if you get hungry, have a piece of fruit. • Drink as much water, seltzer or herbal tea as you like, but limit your intake of coffee, tea or diet cola to two to three servings a day. • Vegetarians can substitute meat from recipes with half cups of black, pinto, or garbanzo beans. • For variety during the second week of the diet, swap any fruit in the plan for blueberries, raspberries, papaya, mango, watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, apple, orange, grapefruit or banana. • Vary the bread. Try English muffins, pita pockets, tortillas or 100 percent whole-grain rolls.

32 | APRIL 2022 |

DAY 1 BREAKFAST • 1 slice whole wheat bread • 1 small wedge of honeydew melon • 1/2 c nonfat yogurt

LUNCH • Spicy tuna pita (fill 1/2 whole-wheat pita pocket with lettuce, tomato, bean sprouts, 2 oz tuna in water, red onion and celery, 1 T fat-free mayo) • 8 oz skim milk

SNACK • 1 oz string cheese, 1 apple, 4 wheat crackers

DINNER • Chicken Enchiladas (see recipe) • 1 c tossed green salad with 1 T vinaigrette • 1 cinnamon-baked banana (sprinkle 1 peeled banana with 1/4 t ground cinnamon and 1/4 c orange juice; bake at 375° F for about 20 minutes)

LUNCH

• Lemon tea

• Niçoise salad (top lettuce with 2 oz tuna in water, tomato slices, sliced olives; serve with oil and balsamic vinegar dressing) • 2 breadsticks • Red Zinger tea

DINNER

SNACK • 1 orange • 1/4 c dry-roasted almonds

DINNER • Pasta with Mushrooms (see recipe) • 1 c lettuce tossed salad with 1/4 medium sliced avocado, 1/2 sliced tomato and 2 T vinaigrette dressing • 1/2 c frozen yogurt

DAY 4 BREAKFAST • 1 Orange Corn Muffin (see recipe) • 1 T peanut butter • 8 oz skim milk

LUNCH

DAY 2 BREAKFAST • 3/4 c bran cereal • 1/2 c blueberries • 8 oz skim milk

LUNCH • Turkey Sandwich (2 oz turkey, 1 oz Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and 1 T mustard and/or fat-free mayo on whole-wheat bread) • 1 nectarine

SNACK • • • •

3/4 c raisins 2 T sunflower seeds 1 c nonfat yogurt 1 medium peach

DINNER • 4 oz grilled or broiled sea bass, flounder or sole • Tomato and feta salad (1 c lettuce, sliced tomato, 1/2 oz feta cheese, chopped shallots and 1 t capers) • 1/2 c brown rice • 1/2 c steamed green beans sautéed with 1 T sliced almonds • 1/2 c cherries

DAY 3 BREAKFAST • 1 low-fat bran muffin • 8 oz skim milk • Cantaloupe slices

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• Veggie wrap (fill 1 whole-wheat tortilla with 3 oz low-fat Monterey jack cheese mixed with lettuce and tomato and 1 T vinaigrette dressing) • 8 oz V8 juice

SNACK • 1 c nonfat fruit yogurt • 1 medium peach

DINNER • 4 oz poached salmon or halibut • 1 c tossed salad with 1 T grated Parmesan cheese • 6 steamed asparagus spears • 3 small red potatoes • Mango slices

DAY 5 BREAKFAST • • • •

6 oz grapefruit juice 1 low-fat bran muffin 1/2 c strawberries 1 c nonfat yogurt

• Penne with grilled veggies (toss 1/2 c cooked penne with grilled eggplant, red bell peppers and mushrooms and 1 t sautéed garlic, chopped basil and 1 T olive oil and 1 T Parmesan cheese) • 1 whole-wheat roll • 1/2 c strawberry sorbet

DAY 6 BREAKFAST • 8 oz skim milk • 3/4 c oatmeal • 1/2 c fresh fruit

LUNCH • Tomato slices and 2 oz low-fat mozzarella on baguette with 1 T olive oil • 8 oz skim milk

SNACK • 1/2 c fresh fruit • 1/2 c nonfat yogurt

DINNER • • • •

4 oz grilled chicken breast 1 c sautéed vegetables 1 whole-wheat roll Mini Blueberry Cheesecake (see recipe)

DAY 7 BREAKFAST • 6 oz orange juice • 1 whole egg plus 2 whites, scrambled • 1 slice whole-wheat toast with jam

LUNCH • Black bean salad (mix 1/2 c cooked black beans, diced tomato, diced bell peppers, red onion and scallions with 1/2 c diced papaya, 1 T olive oil and 4 T vinegar; serve over greens) • 1 flour tortilla

SNACK • 1 Orange Corn Muffin (see recipe) • 1 T peanut butter

LUNCH

DINNER

• 1 c vegetable soup • Spinach salad with chicken or turkey (toss 1 c fresh spinach, tomato and red onion with 3 oz grilled/deli chicken or turkey breast and 1 T raspberry vinaigrette) • 1 sourdough roll

• Shrimp scampi (sauté 6 oz cleaned shrimp with chopped onion, garlic and ¾ c white wine) • 1/2 c steamed rice • 1/2 c steamed broccoli • 1 pear

SNACK • jicama, celery and carrot sticks with 2 T low-fat ranch dip

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

RECIPES ORANGE CORN MUFFINS Makes 12 servings Nutrition information per serving: 170 calories, 38 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat, 5 g protein • 2 oranges, zested then peeled (reserve zest) • 1/4 c honey • 2 cs all-purpose flour • 1/2 c cornmeal • 1 T baking powder • 1 tsp. salt • 1/2 c brown sugar • 4 egg whites • 1 c buttermilk • 1/2 c mashed banana Preheat oven to 400° F. Spray muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Cut oranges into six slices each and remove all seeds. Place a tsp. of honey into each muffin cup; top with an orange slice and set aside. Mix flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl and set aside. In another bowl, combine sugar, egg whites, buttermilk, bananas and 2 T zest; mix well. Fold mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Spoon batter into cups about three-fourths full. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, until golden.

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS Makes 6 servings Nutrition information per serving: 160 calories, 18 carbohydrate, 4 g fat, 14 g protein • 1/2 onion, chopped • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced • 2 chicken breasts, skinned and cubed • 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 T fresh oregano • 1/4 tsp chili flakes • 1/2 c feta cheese • 6 corn tortillas, warmed • Ready-made tomato salsa Preheat oven to 350° F. Sauté onion and pepper with the chicken for three minutes in a medium-size pan that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook five minutes more, or until chicken is cooked through. Remove pan from the stove and fold in oregano and chili flakes. If necessary, drain excess liquid in a strainer; mixture should be moist but not too wet, or tortillas will be soggy. Fold in the feta cheese. Over low heat, warm a dry frying pan and heat each tortilla separately. Transfer tortillas to a plastic bag to keep warm. Remove them one by one and coat both sides with salsa. Place 2 T of the chicken-vegetable mixture on tortilla and roll up carefully. Place enchiladas seam side down in an ovenproof dish lightly sprayed with nonfat cooking spray and cover with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes, or until filling is hot and bubbling.

PASTA WITH MUSHROOMS Makes 6 servings Nutrition information: 366 calories, 75 g carbohydrates, 3 g fat, 14 g protein • 1 pound fettuccine • 1/2 red onion, sliced • 1 tsp. olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 pound porcini or button mushrooms, washed and dried • 1 c low-sodium canned vegetable or chicken stock • 1/2 c sun-dried tomatoes • 3 T chopped fresh basil • Freshly ground nutmeg Cook pasta in a large pot according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a medium pan, sauté the onion in the oil until golden, 3- 5 minutes. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes. Add stock and cook 1 minute more. Add tomatoes, basil and nutmeg and cook 1 minute, stirring. When pasta is done, drain well and return to pot. Toss sauce with pasta and serve immediately.

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MINI BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE Makes 1 serving Nutrition information per serving: 240 calories, 51 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat, 9 g protein Crumb crust: • 1 whole graham cracker, crushed • 2 T unsweetened apple juice Filling: • 2 T unsweetened apple juice • 1/4 tsp unflavored gelatin • 1/4 c plain nonfat yogurt • 2 T nonfat ricotta cheese • 2 T packed brown sugar • 1/2 tsp fresh lime juice • 1/4 c fresh blueberries Preheat oven to 350° F. Lightly spray an individual ramekin with nonstick cooking spray. To make the crust: Put graham-cracker crumbs in a small bowl; add apple juice and stir with a fork until the crumbs are moist but not sticky. Press crumb mixture onto bottom and sides of ramekin. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden. Set on a wire rack to cool completely. To make filling: In a small saucepan, bring apple juice to a simmer over medium heat. Turn off the heat. Sprinkle gelatin over juice and stir until gelatin dissolves. In a food processor or blender, combine yogurt, ricotta, brown sugar, lime juice and gelatin mixture and process until smooth. Scrape into a bowl and fold in three-fourths of the blueberries. Pour into crust and smooth with a spatula. Top with remaining blueberries. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. ■

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by bank insurance, the FDIC or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not guaranteed by the bank, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Bank of Colorado and Bank of Colorado Investment Services are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment Advisory Services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

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FAITH

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Service Times Service Times Celebration Celebration Service Service am Sunday 10:00 am10:00 Sunday Family Night Family Night 6:30 pm Wednesday 6:30 pm Wednesday

Easter Hope “But the angel said to the women, 'Do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, as He said [He would do]. Come, see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples, He has risen from the dead…'” —Matthew 28:5-7a (AMPC). By Kay Owen-Larson, Ph.D.

s the first Easter morning was drawing near, a spirit of hopelessness was evident in the hearts of the early disciples. They knew their teacher and friend, Jesus, had been crucified and placed in a borrowed tomb. Even though he’d 515 S. Dr. Hillcrest promised Dr. 515 S. Hillcrest he would rise again, the Montrose, Montrose, CO 81401CO 81401 disciples could not believe it just Where Passion 970-249-4319then. They believed all hope had ere Passion for God and for God and 970-249-4319 for People meet…. mpassion Compassion for People meet…. died with the crucifixion of Christ. Can you imagine the joy and hope that flooded the disciples’ hearts when they realized that Christ arose, just as he said he Sunday study: 9:00 a.m. would? When Jesus stepped out of Sunday worship: 10:15 a.m. the tomb in all his glory, he restored hope—not only to the early First Baptist Church disciples, but to all of humankind. of Grand Junction That same Easter hope is available to us today, and we, like 720 Grand Avenue the early disciples, desperately 970-242-5645 need that hope! We are part of that future generation, looking for Visit our website: fbcgj.org Christ’s return to Earth. When we wake up each morning, we are not sure what the day will bring. As we look around us at the heartbreak, sickness, economic hardship, earthS Townsend Ave quakes, floods and famine, as well BAPTIST CHURCH E Niagara Rd as the threat of war throughout our Turning Montrose Around world, we need the hope that can RosemontBaptist.org only come from the same Christ that walked out of that tomb. FAMILY FELLOWSHIP COMMUNITY The Bible tells us, in Luke 21:28, “Now when these things begin Sunday Bible Study (all ages) 9:30 9:15 am 1598 E Niagara Rd Montrose, CO 81401 to occur, look up and lift up your Worship Service 10:45 am Worship Service Office: 970.249.4887 heads, because your redemption (deliverance) is drawing near” (AMPC). This should remove the

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fear and uncertainty from any situation we face. It is only when we “look up” to the One who can truly save us that we lose our dread of the unknown. I remember a song we sang many years ago: “In the morning when I rise, give me Jesus.” With that in mind and hope in our hearts that we serve a risen Savior, we can face each day with the “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13) that can only be found in Jesus. As we approach this Easter Day, let our hearts cry out to know the same hope the early disciples experienced. Christ is not dead. He is alive! ■

Easter Sunrise Service Celebrate Jesus and His victory over sin and death at this annual Easter service at 6:45 a.m. on Sunday, April 17. Since Suplizio Field is under construction, the service will be at Central High School’s parking lot, 550 Warrior Way in Grand Junction. Bring a chair or blanket. Onsite radio transmission will be available to all who would like to worship in their cars.

TALKING DIGITAL

Nonprofits and charities: Change the world by giving to the right causes

henever there is a natural disaster or another catastrophic event in the world, humans come together to support those who have been affected. Unfortunately, bad guys also take advantage of the generosity of those seeking ways to help by setting up fake fundraising scams. Additionally, many legitimate companies often use the name of worthy causes to attract sales of products by contributing a minuscule portion of sales to nonprofits that, in turn, relay a minuscule percentage of donations to the advertised purpose. This month, I will give you advice on how to identify scams, nonprofits and legitimate companies that are using the guise of a good cause to line their own pockets more than help those in need. Avoiding charity scams is fairly straightforward. If you have a humanitarian charity, church or nonprofit you trust, donate everything you can directly through that entity. If you don’t have a trusted entity to donate to, here are some tips for researching and identifying a sound charity or nonprofit. These may not seem like “tech” tips, but you will need to do a lot of research using Google and other digital resources.

First, know that nonprofits are businesses. They pay employees and they are allowed to make as much money as any big tech or oil company. An important difference between nonprofit and for-profit businesses is what they are allowed to do with the extra money. For-profit businesses can keep as much money as they want and pay taxes on it. Nonprofits aren’t allowed to have extra money—everything must be used to support the nonprofit. If a nonprofit has extra money, it is allowed to donate it to another nonprofit, which is why you may see one nonprofit (such as a hospital) donating generously to another nonprofit (such as a local children’s organization) toward the end of a fiscal year. In other words, nonprofit and charity are not necessarily synonyms. This nerdy financial information is important because many fundraisers will attempt to appeal to their credibility by explaining that they are a nonprofit organization. Essentially, this just means that all money you donate will be used by that organization, not necessarily for the cause they are representing. Charities, such as churches, homeless shelters and some hu-

manitarian organizations typically give a much larger percentage of donations to the given cause, but there are still many loopholes in laws and regulations that allow money to be spent in ways the donor may not intend. To further muddy the waters, consumer protection entities, such as the Better Business Bureau, are essentially lobbying organizations. They certainly go a long way in identifying valid organizations, but they are also dependent on funds from the same companies they certify. If that sounds like a conflict of interest, it certainly can be. Before donating, it’s important to identify whether you are donating to the cause or to the organization that supports the cause. For example, donating to the Red Cross supports American Red Cross. Obviously, the organization does a lot of good in the world, but a $10 donation to its Ukraine efforts will probably not result in $10 worth

of help or supplies for Ukrainian citizens in need. Because charities and nonprofits are required to disclose salaries and expenses, it’s fairly easy to vet an organization with some online research. Often, the best places to donate are smaller humanitarian campaigns associated with churches, school groups and local charities. Donations through these entities are far more likely to be used for directly sending people, money or supplies to the given need. Bad guys and deceptive organizations will take advantage of technology to mislead and misinform. But the flip side is that donors can use the same technology to ensure they are donating to a valid organization and verify how the money will be spent. Generous donors are more empowered than ever to change the world, provided they do a little research to ensure their money actually goes to the change they wish to see. ■

TALKING DIGITAL BY ADAM COCHRAN

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“One more song about movin' along the highway; can't say much of anything that's new.” - Carole King

will always love singing Carole King's mournful ballads and unsettling vibes. In the half-century since she penned those moving lines, a lot has changed about the economics of travel and energy. Now we can travel highways and power our homes with significantly less damage to the earth under our feet.

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Electric cars have moved into the forefront. Volvo announced last summer that their new car lineup will be all-electric by 2030. General Motors will stop selling new gas-powered cars and light trucks by 2035. These vehicles still aren't carbon-neutral; their relative impacts are estimated in an interactive online tool developed by MIT.

The tool sums the emissions involved in manufacturing cars, producing and burning gasoline and diesel fuel, and the source of electricity for charging electric vehicles. Electric vehicle batteries have a higher impact in their manufacture, including cobalt and lithium mining. Nevertheless, an electric vehicle’s lifetime impact is still remarkably less than internal combustion vehicles and it's improving steadily. Much of plug-in cars' future energy improvement will rest with governments cleaning up their electric grids. In the last 15 years or so, hundreds of American coal plants have been replaced with a mix of natural gas, wind, and solar power. "If we can make our grids zero-carbon, then vehicle emissions drop way, way down," said Jessika Trancik, associate professor of energy studies at MIT. "Whereas even the best hybrids that burn gasoline will always have a baseline of emissions they can't go below."

ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES HAVE A HIGHER IMPACT IN THEIR MANUFACTURE, INCLUDING COBALT AND LITHIUM MINING. NEVERTHELESS, AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE’S LIFETIME IMPACT IS STILL REMARKABLY LESS THAN INTERNAL COMBUSTION VEHICLES AND IT'S IMPROVING STEADILY.

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SOLAR ENERGY Our homes are also becoming more climate resilient. A Pew Research Center survey found 6 percent of U.S. homeowners say they have already installed solar panels at home. This is a small percentage, to be sure, but even this has saved the equivalent of over 130 million acres of forest. The cost of solar power has dropped dramatically in the last decade. An average residential solar system used to run $50,000 or more. Now a typical home installation ranges $16,000-$22,000. Offsetting rebates and grants can sometimes lower it further. In many cities, clean energy is replacing fossil fuel as the default provider. Local governments will buy and build carbon-free energy, which will be delivered and maintained through existing electric company poles and wires. In the Santa Barbara area, for example, existing electricity customers will be enrolled automatically in the clean energy program, although they can opt out without penalty. Those who remain will have three options: • 100 percent carbon-free energy, which costs about $5 more per month • Green Start. More carbon-free energy than the previous standard at no additional cost. • Resilient: 100 percent carbon-free with local energy generation using your solar panels on your home or office at no additional cost

INVEST IN THE PLANET Renters can't typically take advantage of solar power, and electric cars aren't practical for some. Even if you can't be energy self-sufficient and your city remains in the dinosaur age, you have options for getting serious about renewable energy—you can invest in it. The clean secret in our family is that much of our profit in individual stocks came from companies I

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When you retire, don’t lose health coverage Retire right with a Humana Medicare Advantage plan that chose decades ago on an environmentally friendly investing website. I chose some of those companies as a starting-off point for my own research, eventually investing in about a half dozen of them. Digging into these or others will give you an idea of what criteria are important to you and which you believe to be promising both for the world and for your investing future. Carole King may croon that “It's Too Late, Baby,” to prevent the damaging effects of human-caused climate change. The heightened droughts, storms and fires of the last few years have shown that to be true. Nevertheless, as we each opt into better energy choices, improving our finances while reducing the damage to the planet, we bequeath to future generations. ■

START YOUR INVESTMENT RESEARCH If this sounds reasonable for you, do your own due diligence using some of the many ESG-oriented (environmental, social and governance) websites. Some of my favorites: The Good Trade www.thegoodtrade.com The Impact Investor www.theimpactinvestor.com Morningstar www.morningstar.com Find the MIT tool here: www.carboncounter.com/#!/ explore

fits your life Your local, licensed Humana sales agent can help you explore your options and see if you’re eligible to enroll in one of Humana’s affordable Medicare Advantage plans upon retirement. Get the benefits you want and need so you can focus on making your retirement what you want it to be—enjoying the things you love. From helping you find a doctor to assisting with unexpected barriers, Humana goes above and beyond to help you get the healthcare you need. That’s called human care.

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A more human way to healthcare™ Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. 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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BEACON GUIDE FEATURE

All speeds welcome

Mesa Monument Striders appreciate Western Colorado’s beauty on foot

By Lauren Berg

hink running clubs are just for the younger crowd? Mesa Monument Striders invites you to think again, boasting a community of Grand Valley runners that hail from all walks—and speeds—of life. Founded in 1978 by a group of avid runners, Mesa Monument Striders is a Grand Junction-based running club that hosts weekly group runs as well as monthly races in Western Colorado. It’s also an affiliate of the Road Runners Club of America. While some may know the club for its grueling race up and down Mt. Garfield (dubbed the “Garfield Grumble”), its weekly group runs are much more casual and easily accessible to beginners. “It’s a very welcoming group. We have a wide range of abilities and ages of people that come,” said Tom Ela. Ela, 69, has been an active member of the Striders for the past 25 years and is currently in charge of the club’s membership. According to Ela, it’s not uncommon for people to discover the sport later in life. “One guy just turned 70 and he started when he was 50,” he said. Personally, Ela used to say he would never be a runner—that is, until he was “tricked” into running while hiking in Colorado’s mountains shortly after he moved back

to Grand Junction in 1985. “A couple of my friends were runners,” he shared. “After I got into pretty good shape climbing fourteeners, they just took off running down one and I said, ‘I’ll just jump in and run along.’” While some join the Striders to help train for future races, the vibe of the 170-member club is centered around encouragement rather than competition. It’s this community that keeps club members returning. Ela, for example, still plans to join the Striders for their weekly run in spite of his recent knee surgery. He joked that the club will now have it’s very first walking division.

“It’s our little escape time to not have to worry about the real world and just talk about exercise and nature and fresh air,” he said.

BECOME A STRIDER Membership costs $20 per year, which helps fund the group’s events. However, membership is not required to join the club’s weekly runs or to attend races. Ela said weekly runs are a great place to start, offering a range of distances catering to each individual’s goals and ability. Runners are also encouraged to bring a chair and hang out afterwards with their beverage of choice. Group runs

can range from six to 40 people, with certain events like the club’s homemade peach ice cream run (held in late summer) attracting a larger crowd. Ela’s personal favorite is the Turkey Flats Race on June 26 up in Glade Park. “Usually the wildflowers are just peaking about then. A lot of us go up and camp for the weekend,” he said. But when it comes to running in western Colorado, every trail is someone’s favorite. “It’s a wonderful area of opportunity to get out in all kinds of environments. Desert, urban…it’s all accessible and close,” Ela added. To learn more about the club’s upcoming events or to get involved, visit www.mesamonumentstriders. com or call Ela at 970-773-3124. ■

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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

What would happen if you died today?

Not talking about estate planning can be an expensive mistake By Melinda Mawdsley “I don’t have $3 million in assets. My kids can figure it out.” “I’m only 60. I feel great. That power of attorney decision can wait a few more years at least.” “I found a form for a will on the internet. That will work, won’t it?”

erhaps one of the aforementioned thoughts resonates with you. Perhaps you’ve even said it out loud. And if that’s the case, you aren’t alone. Attorney Andrew Smith, of the law office Kain & Burke, said it’s common to hear prospective clients unsure or hesitant about their true need for estate planning. He reiterated that no matter family dynamics, personal assets or health status, an estate plan is a necessary and beneficial part of life planning. Estate planning prepares the way to legally manage a client’s assets in the event of incapacitation or death, which is why it’s never too soon to form one because designating power of attorney, setting a will and living will, and establishing trusts or guardianships cannot be done retroactively.

GETTING STARTED Kain & Burke offers a variety of legal services, from complex tax issues to civil disputes, but Smith said estate planning is an area of expertise. The firm’s lawyers—Smith, Michael P. Burke, Stephanie R. Holguin, Jill Cenamo—and experienced paralegals meet with clients to personally assess what is needed and the information necessary to include in a comprehensive estate plan. Creating an estate plan may only take two meetings with a recommendation to revisit every five to seven years—or sooner, if some-

thing notable happens that needs attention. Those who put together an estate plan before moving to Colorado may want to meet with an attorney to ensure that plan works with state law. “When a lot of people hear ‘estate planning,’ they think they need to have a lot of money,” Smith said. “But that’s not the case.” An estate plan is designed to help people from a variety of financial standpoints while they’re alive and after death. An estate plan may include:

discussed and handled.

AVOID THE MESS If all of this is too overwhelming to think about, imagine what happens if an estate ends up in court with an unknown and undetermined outcome. “[People] need to know what would happen if they died today, and if it’s not what they want, how they can change it,” Smith said. “A lot of times they think kids can

deal with it, but they can’t always deal with paying bills while you are alive and making personal decisions on your health care. Do you want to leave a mess for your heirs or a streamlined format that really isn’t that costly to do?” For help with your estate plan (and/or your parents’), call Kain & Burke at 970-241-2969, or visit them at 225 N. Fifth St., Suite 611, in Grand Junction (located inside Alpine Bank). ■

1. Power of attorney: A legally binding document that allows the client to predetermine who makes decisions on medical and financial decisions in the event the client is unable to do so. 2. Will: A document that specifies how a person’s property and assets are to be distributed. (It’s worth noting that a person who has moved to Colorado will want to check about the validity of an out-of-state will.) 3. Living will and other advance directives: Legal instructions for medical care if unable to make decisions oneself.

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4. Trusts: An effective way to secure property and assets and have beneficiaries avoid potentially expensive and time-consuming probate processes after a client’s death. (There are different kinds of trusts.) Kain & Burke attorneys will customize an estate plan for each client and will advise and take into account marriages, divorces, subsequent marriages, prenuptial agreements, etc. Assets can be such things as bank accounts, real estate, retirement accounts, pensions and life insurance. Additionally, some people may have small businesses, or even oil and gas royalties that need to be WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Lost (and Found) in Space TV Actors Mumy and Cartwright launch new “Lost in Space” book By Nick Thomas

f you were a sci-fi fan growing up during the 1960s, the nostalgic value of shows like “Lost in Space” can’t be overstated. Cast members Bill Mumy and Angela Cartwright recognize the connection many seniors may have to the series and have updated and expanded their 2015 “Lost (and Found) in Space” book into a new volume, released September 14, 2021. The new book is 350 pages and contains over 900 photographs. Mumy and Cartwright give much of the credit for the expanded book to the late producer, director and screenwriter Kevin Burns. Cartwright, who plays the show’s genial and imaginative space teen Penny Robinson, said Burns called

her after acquiring the CBS photo archives of the show, and together, they began writing down all the personal memories the photos brought back. “We were planning to update the book with maybe 50 additional pages, but it ended up so much more with all these never-before-seen photos,” she said. Mumy, who played plucky junior astronaut Will Robinson in the series, said the new volume contains a lot more stories about the show as well as the intertwining lives of him and Cartwright, who have remained friends for over 50 years. “I was 10 when the show began,” said Mumy. “Angela and I were at school together for four years, we went through puberty together,

Angela Cartwright and Bill Mumy in a publicity photo released during the original run of “Lost in Space.”

we became each other’s first loves, traveled the world together, and went on to have our own families. So it’s both a book on ‘Lost in Space’ and our long friendship.” Why the show and science fiction in general remains so popular with audiences is no mystery to Mumy.

“Sci-fi is just a canvas for the imagination. And because our show had children, kids watching could relate to those characters and go along on the space adventures with us each week,” he said. After the three-season show ended in 1968, Mumy and Cartwright continued to act including

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS Angela Cartwright, left, and Bill Mumy, below, hold the new “Lost (and Found) in Space: Blast Off into the Expanded Edition.”

cameos in the new Netflix “Lost in Space” series. But both have enjoyed successful careers beyond the screen. Mumy is a respected musician and singer-songwriter while Cartwright is a noted photographer and painter. However, the pair never distanced themselves from the iconic sci-fi series. “The props, the cast, the stories—I loved every minute working on the show,” Mumy recalled. “We’ve been living through a hard time on this planet lately, so a little nostalgia can take you back to a happy time. ‘Lost in Space’ even inspired people to go into the space program.” And as the stars have aged, so have their fans.

Discover a tranquil neighborhood all your own. “That’s a special connection we have with them,” Cartwright noted. “They’ve even been very forgiving about my white hair!” “Now, people in their 50s and 60s have introduced it to their children and grandchildren,” Mumy added. “In 30 or 40 years, when we’re all no longer around, there will probably be new generations still watching it with fond memories. So we’re grateful for the fans and hope the book brings back a snippet of their childhood.” ■

Buy “Lost (and Found) in Space: Blast Off into the Expanded Edition” for $60 on Amazon.

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

Autographed editions are available at www.NCPBooks.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 | APRIL 2022 |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Little things that “wow” me By Marti Healy

“Oh,

wow!” she kept saying, in that breathless sort of wonder that can be heard only in the voice of youth and innocence. Her tiny nose and hands pressed against one store window and then another. She pointed to counter after counter filled with candy. And then several displays of plastic eggs and scenes of stuffed bunnies and yellow chicks and woven baskets of every size. Even a stack of nothing more than colorful socks caused her to express delight. “Oh, wow!” she said again and again, as her tiptoes carried her from place to place, store to store, joy to joy. She is only 2-1/2 years old, perhaps a bit closer to 3. But she is brilliantly new to the world, fresh with quickened senses and anticipation. Her name is Jane and she was

42 | APRIL 2022 |

visiting my neighbor—her grandmother—just before Easter. I was delighted when Jane, her mother and grandmother invited me to come shopping with them. I had not expected how much joy it would bring to watch Jane as she reminded everyone around her about authentic awe and curiosity. She exampled for us how to appreciate the wonders that are often at the ends of our own fingertips and tips of our noses.. It wasn’t just the sparkle and glam of the stores that caught Jane’s enthusiasm. There was also a giant ballerina statue, and leaves on the ground everywhere she looked. There was one large friendly dog by the name of Quincy, and dozens of others to meet and greet on practically every street corner. “Oh, wow!” she said to each of them.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

I suspect that most of us have something in our lives that can still bring us to that feeling of “oh, wow!” It could be kneeling in a garden with the sun soft on our backs, or wet dog noses. Perhaps it’s the joy of creating art or music or dance. Maybe it’s a glowing sunset or the perfect golf swing. For me, it’s often old books or abandoned buildings, as well as deep silent forests and warm rhythmic ocean waves. But I can also be wowed by the less tangible, such as hearing or

LATELY I FIND THAT I AM MOST WOWED BY UNEXPECTED KINDNESSES, UNBRIDLED COMPASSION AND UNCONTAINED LOVE.

reading one true thing. And the wisdom of native peoples and the very young. I can be wowed by a unique turn of phrase that makes me think, and a phrase of music that makes me cry. And there are the universal wows of treasured smells that seem to speak to all of us—like rain, and fresh cookies and bread. Lately, however, I find that I am most wowed by unexpected kindnesses, unbridled compassion and uncontained love. I am awed by grace and generosity beyond reason, by peacemakers and diplomats. Watching Jane that lovely day, I began to examine all the potential and deserving “oh, wows” there really are in life, if we remain open to them. And I began to suspect that perhaps they aren’t always meant just for us to experience. Perhaps there are moments and opportunities when we are meant to be the “wow” in someone else’s life. Perhaps, in the end, those are the “wows” that should matter the most, no matter our age. ■

Prince Philip

10 June 1921 – 9 April 2021

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

VIRTUAL SENIOR LAW SERIES SPRING 2022

By John W. Thurman Time: Oh Time, When one is an infant, there are few memories. Growing into adolescent life, most gradually create memories which might go unheeded. In adulthood we generate so many great moments that transform into future memories.

Then time, oh time, you run over us deliberately and regrettably quickly. Now, all hopefully become precious memories to others to share during unhappiness. Time: Oh time, existence makes all pay your toll for being born. ■

Old age brings on reflection of life’s memories fashioned within each lifespan.

FREE SERIES! You must pre-register at: You must pre-register at: https://tinyurl.com https://tinyurl.com/2p9a26tk *Free Senior For technical issues with registration, please call (97 LawNOT Book!be recorde Please note: classes will For technical issues with registration, *Sign up for please call (970) 248-2717 a free Ask-APlease note: classes will NOT be recorded Schedule Lawyer session!

Date

Time

04/01

Schedule 10-11am Long Term Care Medicaid

Topic

Need and to Know When Someone Dies Date10-11am TimeWhat YouTopic Presenter

04/08 04/15

10-11am End of Life Planning

04/22

10-11am Wills & Trusts Shauna Clemmer, Esq.

04/01

04/29

10-11am

Long Term Care Medicaid

10-11am Dealing with Debt

04/08

10-11am

What You Need to Know

05/06

10-11am

AARP: Who WeSomeone Are and What When DiesWe Do

05/13

Clara Brown Shaffer, Esq. 10-11am SSI & SSDI at Colorado Legal Services

Housing Resources: Counseling & Education Program 04/1510-11am 10-11am End of LifeHousing Planning StephanieWeatherization Holguin, Esq.& Rehab Programs 05/27 10-11am Housing Resources: 05/20

04/22

10-11am

Wills & Trusts Lloyd Quesenberry, Esq.

04/29

10-11am

Dealing with Debt Andrea Rosenberry, Esq.

05/06

10-11am

AARP: Who We Are and What We Do John Rodwick

05/13

10-11am

SSI & SSDI at Colorado Legal Services Lindsey Watson, Esq.

05/20

10-11am

Housing Resources: Housing Counseling & Education Program Marisa Felix-Campbell

05/27

10-11am

Housing Resources: Weatherization & Rehab Programs Marisa Felix-Campbell

All You Can Eat Orchard Mesa Lions Club presents the

43rd Annual Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast Sunday • May 8th • 7:00am-11:30am Mesa County Fairgrounds • Building C

Tickets available through Reenie with the Orchard Mesa Lions Club at 970-270-9623, or at all local True Value Hardware Stores

$8 in advance • $9 at the door

Kids under 5 and Active Military are FREE!

Bring this ad to receive a free spin on the cake wheel! WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 |

MeSa County April 1-10 Restaurant Week

Pick up a Restaurant Week Passport at any participating restaurant and collect stamps from eateries in downtown Grand Junction ($10 minimum). Turn in your completed passport to the Downtown Grand Junction office by April 11 for the chance to win one of many prizes. Downtown Grand Junction | Free | www.downtowngj.org/restaurantweek | 970-245-9697

April 5

Comedy for Everybody!

Come and chat with Joke Junction co-founder and comedian Emilie Stickley as she shares her approach to writing for standup and stringing together the perfect set. This event is offered in person and online. Register by 3 p.m. April 5. 6-7:30 p.m. | 1803 N. 7th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.western coloradowriters.org

April 5

Individual Tech Help

Library patrons who are beginners to their smartphones, tablets and computers can receive help navigating and learning about their apps in this free help session at the Central Library. Registration required. 5:30-7:30 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa countylibraries.org | 970-243-4442

April 6

New-to-Medicare 101

Learn from a trained and unbiased SHIP counselor about enrolling in Medicare. Registration required. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 422 White Ave., Suite 090, Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacountyrsvp.org | 970-243-9839, ext 1.

44 | CALENDAR | APRIL 2022 |

CALENDAR

April 7

April 10

Learn about the art and sport of falconry with expert Kevin Humphreys. Live raptors will be present. Seating is limited. Registration required. 5:30-6:30 p.m. | 324 N. Coulson St., Fruita | Free | www.mesacounty libraries.org | 970-858-7703

Run 5K or 10 K with professional timing, photographers, awards and swag. There is a 2.5K Fun Run as well. Proceeds benefit Kids Aid and Christian education. Register online. 7-11 a.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | $15-$45 | www. elevatekids.org/fun-run | 970-2543866

Falconry Fundamentals

April 8-9

Mesa to Monuments Quilt Show

Poetry Postcards

April 9

Scenery, Flora and Fauna of Greater Zion

What part do feathers play in dinosaurs falling in love? Learn and participate at this grown-ups only (21+) event at Dinosaur Journey. Ticket includes one beer and taco truck meal ticket. 6-9 p.m. | 550 Jurassic Ct., Fruita | $35-$45 | www.museumofwestern co.com | 970-243-0971

April 10

A Night for Scarlett’s Way

Learn about the inspiring mission of Scarlett’s Way and enjoy the musical talents of combat veterans Scooter Brown and Donnie Reis in The War Hippies. 7-10 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $25 | www.avalonthe atregj.com | 970-263-5757

April 12

More than 200 quilts are on display and 22 vendors from five states present their best wares at Grand Junction Convention Center. There will be a live auction for an antique quilt on Saturday. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday | 159 Main St., Grand Junction | $5 adults, kids under 12 free | www.sunsetslopequilters. com | 970-201-6212

Museum After Dark

April 16

Elevate Kids Run

Dust off your postcards and learn how to write a postcard poem from Mesa County Libraries’ Artist in Residence Jill Burkey! Don’t have any postcards lying around? We’ve got you covered. 6-7:30 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacounty libraries.org | 970-243-4442

April 14

Don Campbell hosts a virtual tour of scenery, fauna, flora, cacti and succulents found in the southwestern corner of Utah. 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 536 Ouray Ave., Grand Junction | Free

April 14

Colorado Peaches

Palisade Historical Society’s monthly history talk features the video, “Colorado Peaches.” It explains how Palisade peaches were grown, processed and transported to Grand Junction. 6 p.m. | 202 Peach Ave., Palisade | Free | www.historicpalisade.com | 970-464-2177

April 17

Easter Sunrise Service

Celebrate Jesus and His victory over sin and death at this annual Easter service at Central High School’s parking lot. Bring a chair or blanket. On-site radio transmission will be available to all who would like to worship in their cars. 6:45 a.m. | 550 Warrior Way, Grand Junction | Free

April 19

An Uncompahgre Ute Story

The great-great-grandson of Chief Ouray and Chipeta, Roland McCook shares his personal experiences as a member of the Ute Tribe at the Clifton Library. Registration required. 5 p.m. | 590 32 Road, Clifton | Free | www.mesacountylibraries.org | 970-434-6936

April 16 Peace, Love & Harmony

Join the Bookcliff Barbershop Harmony Chorus and special guests for a delightful evening of vocal artistry in Colorado Mesa University’s Love Recital Hall. 3 p.m. | 221 N. 12th St., Grand Junction | $15 | 970-243-8908 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

History Fair

Visit with regional history organizations and local authors at Mesa County Historical Society’s history fair. Bring up to three items to be evaluated by a local appraiser in this Antiques Roadshow-style event. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 2463 Broadway, Grand Junction | Free | 970-260-5226

CALENDAR join the

Mesa County Historical Society April 19

All About Joint Replacement

This seminar at Community Hospital will help you better understand what to expect during your total knee or hip replacement and how to plan for the return to home and active life. Masks required. 6 p.m. | 2351 G Road, Grand Junction | www.yourcommunityhospital. com | 970-245-0484

April 22-24

Beauty and The Beast

Step into the enchanted world of Broadway's modern classic as performed by The Theatre Project at the Avalon Theatre. 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | seniors $19, adults $25, kids $10 | www.avalontheatre gj.com | 970-263-5757

April 23

Southwest Arbor Fest

Celebrate Earth Day at Grand Junction’s premier outdoor festival! Learn from local arborists, take a guided notable tree walk in Lincoln Park, and take home a free tree seedling. Enjoy live music, food trucks, craft beer and more. 12-5 p.m. | 1340 Gunnison Ave., Grand Junction | Free | www. gjparksandrec.org | 970-254-3866

April 27

Crystal Gayle Live

Crystal Gayle was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by her sister, Loretta Lynn. See why Crystal attained national prominence during this live performance at the Avalon. 7:30-9:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $42-$67 | www.avalon theatregj.com | 970-263-5757

April 28

A La Mode

Enjoy an evening of delectable desserts handcrafted by the finest chefs in the area while supporting local nonprofits. This event, hosted by the Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club, takes place at the DoubleTree Hotel.

April 28

FIRST ANNUAL

HISTORY FAIR SATURDAY

APRIL 16, 2022 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

at Redlands Community Center • 2463 Broadway, Grand Junction

Grand Junction BeaconFest

Celebrate age at Colorado’s largest celebration for seniors and baby boomers. Come to Grand Junction Convention Center for a day full of entertainment, seminars, food and 100+ vendors, as well as plenty of prize giveaways. The best part: it’s all free! 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 159 Main St., Grand Junction | Free | www. BeaconFest.BeaconSeniorNews. com | 970-243-8829 ■ 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 743 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction | $40 | www.alamodegjdotcom.wordpress.com | 970-270-5898

April 28

Louis Prima Jr. at the Avalon

Louis Prima Jr. carries the next generation of Prima music into the 21st century, performing a combination of original songs and his father’s famous hits. 7:30 p.m. | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $35 | www.community concertsgrandvalley.org | 970-2635757

April 30-May 1 All Mozart

Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra performs Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 3 with Jonathan Okseniuk of the 2021 Young Artists Competition, and Mozart's Requiem Mass featuring the Symphony Chorus. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday | 645 Main St., Grand Junction | $15$45 | www.gjso.org | 970-263-5757 ■

SEE MORE EVENTS AT: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Visit with Regional History Organizations and Local Authors Bring 3 items to be valuated by a local appraiser in an Antiques Roadshow-style event Bring a thumb drive and 6 photos to be scanned Food will be available through Underdog Cheese’s Food Truck The Mesa County Historical Society is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of Mesa County history through meetings and programs about local history.

for more information contact MCHS President Priscilla Mangnall at 970-260-5226 Or Email at: Priscilla.Mangnall@gmail.com

Book Drop

Clearance Book Sale

9:00am - 2:00pm Fridays and Saturdays

April 22nd - May 14th All proceeds will benefit the Clifton Branch Library Project

$1 Books $1 CDs $2 DVDs First Congregational Church 1425 N. 5th Street (Across from GJHS)

Cash Only WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | CALENDAR |

MeSa County American Association of University Women meets monthly. 2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 970261-2112 Bookcliff Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to First Baptist Church. Tuesdays | 7-9 p.m. | 970-257-7664 Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Wednesdays & Fridays | 12:45 p.m. | 970-244-9989 Chatfield Country Kickers meets for square and round dancing at VFW #3981. 1st & 3rd Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | 970-434-0868 Citizens’ Climate Lobby meets via Zoom. 970-250-4832 | grandjunction@ citizensclimatelobby.org Clifton Book Club meets to discuss book selections at Clifton Library. 2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | www.mesacountylibraries.org Colorado Archaeological Society meets monthly. 2nd Monday | 970-250-7402 | www.CAS-GJ.org Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library. 3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 970-4346936 Cribbage Lite meets at IHOP. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 970-201-7823 Cups Club meets at The Artful Cup. Make friends through cards, games,

CLUBS Knitting Club meets at Community of Christ Church. 4th Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-623-1455

talk and tea. Wednesdays | 2 p.m. | 970-2572390

tion Convention Center. 3rd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | www.grandjunctionpmc.com

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, meets monthly. 970-250-7401

Grand Junction Toastmasters meets in the Garden Room at The Commons of Hilltop. Tuesdays | 6:45 a.m. | 970-361-1806

Desert Vista Garden Club is open to all women. 1st Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 303-6531941

Grand Valley Pets Alive meets at Church of the Nativity. 3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970462-7554

Newcomers Club meets at Grand Valley Event Center. 2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 970549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org

Explorer’s Bible Study, open to all women, meets at Redlands Community Church. Wednesdays | 9:30-11:15 a.m. | 970260-0880

Grand Valley Valor Quilters meets at Quilters Inspiration. 3rd Monday | 10 a.m.

Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment, community and grace for adults 60+, meets at Koinonia. 2nd & 4th Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-433-7799 | www.cslgj.org

Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981. Former, retired and active sea service, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard welcome. 2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-4340868 Friendship Force, a club that promotes travel and cultural understanding through home stays, meets at New Covenant Baptist Church. 3rd Saturday | 12 p.m. | 214-5362250 | www.ffwcolo.com Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road, Grand Junction. 2nd Thursday at 7 p.m. | 4th Thursday at 6:30 p.m. | grandjunction rockclub@gmail.com Grand Junction Brush & Palette Club meets at The Art Center. 3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | www.gjbrushandpalette.org Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Grand Junc-

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 1st & 3rd Wednesday at 6 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Wednesdays at 1 p.m. | 970-245-8817 or 970-257-1549 Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2458817 Great Old Broads for Wilderness meets monthly. 970-596-8510 Guys’ Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction. 1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-243-8829 or 970-270-6184

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. www.mesacountygenealogy.org

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at the Eagles Lodge in Grand Junction. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-208-9228 Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques. 970-256-9580 River City Singles meets at the Grand Junction Moose Lodge. Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 970-210-2390 Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club. Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 970234-5030

Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction meets at Warehouse 25sixty-five. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664

SOS: Singles over 65 is an active, hip social club for single seniors! www.meetup.com/singles-over-65

Knights of Columbus #1062 meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church. 2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2611952

Sunset Slope Quilters meets at Canyon View Vineyards Church’s South Chapel. 2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. |

Dedicated to Compassionate Care Western Slope Memory Care provides a safe and secure environment while allowing residents with Alzheimer’s or Dementia to live their best life. All Inclusive Pricing! • 24-Hour Professional Care Staff • On-site and Community Activities Program, tailored to individual needs • 3 + 3 Compassionate Cuisine Dining Program

46 | CLUBS | APRIL 2022 |

• • •

Electronic Security and Incontinence Monitoring System Weekly Housekeeping and Individualized Laundry Included Pet Friendly - Small Dogs under 35 pounds

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

970-462-9696

2594 Patterson Road • Grand Junction

www.sunsetslopequilters.com

www.wcacastronomy.org

Sweet Adelines, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, sings four-part barbershop harmony and rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church. Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 970-245-1837 | www.grandmesaacappella.com

Western Colorado Decorative Artists meets at First Congregational Church. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-6402751

Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets weekly. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-361-1806

Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247. 4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2507036

Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | www.thunder mountaincameraclub.org

Western Slope Model Yacht Club meets at Canyon View Park’s north pond. Saturdays | 10 a.m. | 970-2432957

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Junction Masonic Center. Thursdays | 970-261-1670

Western Slope Pickleball Club meets regularly. 970-241-8561 | www.western slopepickleballclub.com

Veterans Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source. Tuesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-2573760 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) #3981 meets at 503 Florence Road in Grand Junction. 1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 970-7788242 Western Colorado Amateur RadioClub meets at First Christian Church. 2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | www. w0rrz.org Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at the Central Library. 1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-201-2865 |

Question

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Jan Weeks

What was your high school prom like? Jane Kauffman - Palisade “My folks were very religious so I wasn’t allowed to date or dance. They let me go to the sophomore prom, which was my first date. My dad told my date to have me home by midnight and ‘Don’t be an octopus!’ I was home by curfew, and my date didn’t get a goodnight kiss. That was the last time I dated in high school.”

Wheels West Car Club meets at Grand Junction Moose Lodge. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www. wheelswestcarclub.org

Huey Plumleigh - Grand Junction

Writer Chicks Coffee Club, a ladies-only meeting for local writers, meets at Main Street Bagels. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | melody jones@melodyjonesauthor.com

“The prom was okay. I borrowed my brother’s car, and on the way home I hit a skunk. The air conditioner was on! The car filled with skunk smell. My date never went out with me again.”

Yoga for Military Members at Western Region One Source offers a free yoga class for military members and their families. Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-257-3760 ■

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

PEACE, LOVE & HARMONY Who doesn’t want that? But it’s ONE NIGHT ONLY! Join The Bookcliff Barbershop Harmony Chorus and Special Guests for a Delightful Evening of Vocal Artistry on

Sunday, April 10, 2022 3:00 p.m. at Love Recital Hall

(Inside the Moss Performing Arts Center at Colorado Mesa University) Tickets: $15 Adults • $10 Students

Mary Myers - Grand Junction “I didn’t go. I used the money I would have spent on a dress and went to the movies.”

Kirk Knowles - Fruita “I went to Fruita Monument High School and had our prom on the top floor of Alpine Bank. The bank had just opened, and construction wasn’t finished yet. We had the whole floor to ourselves. It was great! My date became my wife of 18 years.”

Advance Tickets Available By Calling 970-243-8908 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | CLUBS |

MeSa County

BEACON BITS

displays, a silent auction and Palisade “Grouch,” local vetes, celebrates more. This event also highlights the 104th birthday significant William Floryancic celebrated his 104th birthefforts by day with friends and family at the Veterans many to Community Living Center in Grand Junction. sponsor The Army vet was born in Salida on March 9, and host 1918, married Lillian Ruth Jenkins in 1941 and had two children, Paul and Karen. He worked at Bancroft Grocery in Palisade for several years before purchasing it in 1958 and changing the name to Bill’s Market. He also had two service stations in Grand Junction. On December 12, 1992, he married Lucille Phillips Hampton. Floryancic was very involved in the Palisade community. He was voted its very first “Town Grouch” in 1985.

Family Health West rebrands with new name and logo

Under the Family Health West (FHW) service umbrella are more than 30 clinics and a number of unique programs to Western Colorado. Previously, the individual name of each clinic and program didn’t tie directly to Family Health West nor invoke the deep history of local quality care that the organization is known for. The hospital will now be known as the Family Health West Hospital, and the clinics are Family Health West Family Medicine, Family Health West Pediatric Rehab, Family Health West General Surgery, etc. The rebrand also includes a new logo and message, which were inspired by Fruita founder and poet William Pabor, who visualized rose embowered

48 | BEACON BITS | APRIL 2022 |

cottages for the future of Fruita and the delicate care and creation of healing. The center of the rose is symbolic of a star, representing the staff who are at the heart of everything at FHW. To learn more about the rebrand, visit www.FHW. org/rose.

Property tax exemption for seniors and disabled veterans For those who qualify, 50 percent of the first $200,000 in actual value of their primary residence is exempted. The state pays the exempted portion of the property tax. Once approved, the exemption remains in effect for future years, and the applicant needs not reapply. The application deadline for the senior citizen exemption is July 15, 2022. Applications available at Mesa

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

County Assessor’s Office, 544 Rood Ave., Grand Junction. The application deadline for disabled veterans is July 1, 2022. Applications available at www.dola.colorado.gov/dpt. For details about the senior citizen exemption, call 970-244-1610. For the disabled veteran exemption, call 303-284-6077.

Jac Kephart Gallery open at The Art Center

The Art Center of Western Colorado (TAC) welcomes the new Jac Kephart Gallery, a 1,700 square foot gallery in honor of Kephart, a beloved local artist and influential community member who mentored and inspired many. The project also allowed for the installation of a modern fire mitigation system to protect the building and collections, upgrades to the permanent collection preservation, and updates to the Gould Gallery. Additionally, it provides a new space for the evolving and in-demand education programs offered to the community. Donations are still being accepted for the Kephart Project and its related improvements. For details, call 970-243-7337.

International Festival coming in April

This celebration of cultures will include food trucks, booths, interactive activities, cultural performanc-

10 Afghanistan refugee families locally. The International Festival is planned for April 30, 2022, on the grounds of Canyon View Vineyard Church in Grand Junction. For more information, to sign up to share your culture, or donate a silent auction item, contact Theresa Bloom at ktlbloom83@gmail.com or call 970-640-9875.

Diane Schwenke, Grand Junction Chamber CEO, retires

Diane Schwenke, President and CEO of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, announced her retirement. Speaking at the Chamber Board of Directors meeting, Schwenke said that she will be leaving the position she has held for 33 years. A succession plan was adopted in 2017 that will provide a roadmap for the Chamber leadership and selection committee. In the meantime, Schwenke intends to stay at the helm to ensure a smooth transition. Once that transition is completed, she intends to spend time with family and travel.

Community Hospital’s chief medical officer chosen as Administrator of the Year

Community Hospital announced Thomas Tobin, MD, has been selected as the 2022 Administrator of the Year by the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM).

BEACON BITS

Dr. Tobin is an emergency medicine physician and the chief medical officer at Community Hospital. The award will be presented to Dr. Tobin at the AAEM Scientific Assembly on April 24-27, 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland. To learn more about the comprehensive health care services offered at Community Hospital, visit www.YourCommunityHospital.com.

CMU Theatre presents Mesa Spring Festival April 14-23

The Mesa Spring Festival will feature two intimate shows directed by CMU students in the Mesa Experimental Theatre at the Moss Performing Arts Center. “Exit, Pursued by a Bear,” a dark comedy about a woman and her quirky friends who decide to teach her abusive husband a lesson, written by Lauren Gunderson, will be directed by Siana Gutierrez. “Rabbit Hole,” a drama exploring grief and family dynamics, written by David Lindsay-Abaire, will be directed by Sierra Packard. See schedule and purchase tickets at www.coloradomesa.edu/tickets, or call 970248-1020.

Friends of Mesa County Library Clearance Book Sale

Stock up on reading material to add to your home library at The Friends of Mesa County Libraries’ weekly book sales from April 22 through May 14. Book sale hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. Fifth St., Grand Junction. All proceeds will benefit the Clifton Branch Library Project. Books and CDs are $1, and DVDs are $2. Cash only. ■

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Ariel Clinical Services is looking for volunteer host homes. Get paid to support adults with intellectual disabilities. Call 970-245-1616 A Little Help volunteers help older adults with home services, errands and more. Call 970-404-1923 Colorado Master Gardeners teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. 970-244-1834 | https://tra. extension.colostate.edu Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers serve in various positions. www.foodbankrockies.org/west ern-slope-volunteer | Call 970-464-1138 Foster Grandparents 55+ help in school classrooms. Call 970-298-9092 Grand Junction Visitor Center tourism ambassadors welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. www.visitgrandjunction.com | Call 970-256-4054 Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | Call 970-243-9839 MOPS Kids volunteers watch children during MOPS meetings at Canyon View Vineyard Church. Call 970-549-6637 Museum of Western Colorado has a variety of opportunities. www.museumofwesternco.com | info@westcomuseum.org Operation Interdependence volunteers hand-write notes sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 970-523-4217 Palisade Historical Society volunteers share Palisade’s history or work on committees/projects. historicpalisade@outlook.com

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Call Us Today For A FREE ASSESSMENT!

Senior Companions 55+ provide friendship and drive homebound seniors to errands/appointments. Call 970-298-9092

CONSTRUCTION FIRM BUILDS

SAFER SPACES SafeSpace Builders modifies spaces to accommodate people with disabilities as well as helping seniors stay in their homes. We specialize in home modifications to make any space safer and more accessible

Ramps ■ Indoor / Outdoor Lifts Bathroom Safety ■ Barrier-Free Showers Easy-Access Kitchen Design Single Area Renovations to Full Home Remodels

We Proudly Accept Medicaid

Serving the Community is Our Top Priority!

970-462-9472 SafeSpaceBuilders.co

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | BEACON BITS |

SUPPORT GROUPS CALENDAR

MeSa Montrose County & Delta Alzheimer's Association's Persons with Dementia support group meets virtually. Register for Zoom link. 2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org Caregiver Connections meets on Zoom. Tuesdays | 10-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-2390 Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella Grand Junction. Call to RSVP. 1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-822-7070 Caregiver Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge Care Center. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416 Compassionate Friends offers friendship to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents at Messiah Lutheran Church. 1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-4343822 Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets at the Alzheimer's

Association office. 4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. | 970714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge Care Center. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970640-7416 Gamblers Anonymous’ 12-step meeting is held at The Meeting Hall. Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719 GriefShare, a nondenominational Christ-based group for those mourning the death of a loved one, meets at Clifton Christian Church. Mondays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 970-6281453 Grief Group for Pets meets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society. 2nd Wednesday, bi-monthly | 6-7 p.m. | 970-434-7337, ext. 103 Guitars 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source. Tuesdays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970257-3760 Head & Neck Cancer Support

PLEASE JOIN OUR MONTHLY

DEMENTIA DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP SUPPORT GROUP PLEASE JOIN OUR MONTHLY

Tuesdayofofeach each month month atatAspen Ridge 2nd2nd Tuesday Aspen Ridge Activity Room Activity Room 1:30 - 3:00 PM 1:30 - 3:00 PM Open to any caregiver in the community, this group is an opportunity to share with others experiencing a similar journeyiscaring for a loved to Open to and anylearn caregiver in the community, this group an opportunity one learn with dementia. Caregivers may bringa their loved one to caring participate. share and with others experiencing similar journey for a loved

one with dementia. Caregivers may bring their loved one to participate.

RSVP TO (970) 640-7416

RSVP TO (970) 640-7416 622 28 1/4 Rd | Grand Junction, CO 81506 | aspenridgealz.com | (970) 254-1233

622 28 1/4 Rd | Grand Junction, CO 81506 | aspenridgealz.com | (970) 254-1233

50 | SUPPORT GROUPS | APRIL 2022 |

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Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists (St. Mary’s Hospital). 1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2452400

Parents (Family) of Addicted Loved Ones meets at Four Winds. Thursdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2162232

Healing Hands Hour meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. Thursdays | 12-1 p.m. | 970-298- 2351

St. Mary’s Stroke support group meets monthly virtually and in person. 3rd Friday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-2981980

Hearing Loss of America, WesternColorado Chapter, meets at Center for Independence 2nd Saturday | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-241-0315 ext. 29 HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church. 3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 970-7789274 Job Searching After 50 meets at Mesa County Workforce Center. Register as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com. 1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-10 a.m. | 970-248-7560 Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 970-2982351 MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room. 1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 970-2982351 Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location. Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-2572390 Mens Health Group (veterans) meets at Western Region One Source. 1st Mondays | 9:30-11 a.m. | 970257-3760 Moms Group (veterans) meets at Western Region One Source. 1st and 4th Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-257-3760 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fruita. 4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www. NAMIWS.org | 970-462-3989

Tai Chi for Veterans at Western Region One Source in Grand Junction. Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-2573760 TOPS Club weight-loss support group meets at Grace Point Church. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 970-523-0241 TOPS Colorado 458 weight-loss support group meets at Community of Christ Church. Tuesdays | 5 p.m. | 970-628-4981 Veteran Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source. Wednesdays | 8-10:30 a.m. | 970257-3764 Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only support group meets at Grand Junction Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 970263-8986 Vets 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source. Fridays | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970257-3760 Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 970298-2351 Women Veterans Tai Chi at Western Region One Source. Fridays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-2573760 Yoga For Life meets at St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room. Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 p.m. | 970-2982351 Yoga for Veterans at Western Region One Source. Thursdays | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970257-3760 ■

List Your Support Group for FREE! Email: Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Recreation Center activities To register for programs, call the Fruita Community Center at 970-858-0360 or visit www.fruita.org/parksrec/page/seniors

SPECIAL EVENTS All activities start or take place at Fruita Senior Center unless noted.

National Coffee Cake Day Enjoy coffee cake and chat with us about upcoming summer activities. 10 a.m. | April 7 | $2

FITNESS Visit the Fruita Community Center for more classes!

Tai Chi / Qi Gong

This traditional Chinese practice uses slow and soft movements and relaxing meditative techniques to improve flexibility, balance and strength. 1 p.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

SilverSneakers Yoga

Senior Potluck

Bring a dish to share, or pay $3 at the door. Main dishes will be Easter ham on April 14 and chicken on April 28. 12 p.m. | April 14 & 28 | $3 or bring a dish

No Thoroughfare Canyon Hike

Explore this 4.5-mile moderate hike on the Colorado National Monument. 9:30 a.m. | April 20 | $5

GAMES Pinochle

Play pinochle with friends at the Senior Center. 10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

Game Night

Play dominoes, Mexican train and many other games at the Senior Center. 5 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Tuesdays

Perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. A chair can be used for support. 11:30 a.m. | Mondays & Fridays

SilverSneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement for daily life activities. A chair can be used for support. 11:30 a.m. | Tuesdays

SilverSneakers Circuit

Increase your cardiovascular and muscular endurance with a standing circuit workout. Upper body strength work with handheld weights, elastic tubing with handles and a ball is alternated with non-impact aerobic choreography. 11:30 a.m. | Wednesdays & Thursdays

To register for these programs, call the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department at 970-254-3866 or visit www.gjparksandrec.org.

SPECIAL EVENTS Easter Hat Parade

Parade around the Senior Center in your best and funniest hats, then pick an Easter egg and see if it contains a prize. The Senior Center will provide fried chicken for lunch. Bring a side dish to share. 11:30 a.m. | April 14 | Senior Recreation Center

Southwest Arbor Fest

Western Colorado Regional Pickleball Tournament:

Men's, women's, and mixed all levels 3.0-4.5+. Saturday is doubles and Sunday is mixed. Start times will be designated once registration closes at 5 p.m. on April 20. One fee covers all play for the weekend. April 30-May 1 | Register at gjpr.org/pickleballtour22

FITNESS Gentle Yoga

Practice flexibility of your mind and body. Punch passes available. 8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Lincoln Park Barn | $7

Line Dancing

This Choregraphed class is taught to a variety of music. No partner required. Drop in or Register for the session. (April 18 -May 16) 12:15pm-2pm Mondays at the Lincoln Park

550 Ouray Ave., Grand Junct. 970-243-7408 Open to adults 50 and older 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

MONDAY 9:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 6:00 pm

TUESDAY 8:00 am 9:00 am 11:00 am 1:00 pm

Pinochle (DD) Pool Tournament & Games Darts Bingo

WEDNESDAY 9:00 am Games 9:30 am Pool 1:00 pm Pinochle

THURSDAY 10:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 6:00 pm

1st Thursday Dance Potluck Lunch Pokeno & Rummikub Bunco

2nd & 4th Thursdays 9:00 am Games 10:00 am Cribbage 12:00 pm Pokeno 1:00 pm Rummikub & Poker 6:00 pm Bunco 9:00 am 10:00 am 1:00 pm 6:00 pm

3rd Thursday Games Cribbage Pokeno & Rummikub Bunco

FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. 12:45 p.m. 1:00 p.m.

Pool Tournament & Games Bridge Canasta

SATURDAY

Hiring part-time/seasonal

Are you looking to volunteer, or searching for a part time or seasonal job with flexible hours? Visit www.gjcity.org/jobs for details.

Cribbage & Games Canasta Card Bingo Game Night

9:00 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 1:00 pm

Games Tai Chi Darts Bingo

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | FUN AFTER 50 |

Montrose & Delta April 1-2

“High Noon,” “Once Upon a Time in the West,” “El Dorado,” “Johnny Guitar,” and “Shane.” See these iconic westerns as they were meant to be seen at the Tru Vu Drive-in and the Egyptian Theater in Delta. See website for showtimes | $5 | www.mydeltamovies.com

Flea Market & Craft Show

Stop by Friendship Hall at Montrose County Fairgrounds to check out the Flea Market and Craft Show with over 70 vendors and door prizes. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday | 1001 N. 2nd St., Montrose | www.montrosecounty eventcenter.com | 970-531-2438

April 8

Hugh Phillips Band Live!

April 3

Young Artists Concert

Western Slope Concert Series features two emerging artists for the season finale: violinist Mariama Alcântara and pianist Zerek Dodson. Their program features works spaced 100 years apart, including Franz Schubert’s A major Sonata and Ottorino Respighi’s B minor Sonata. 3-5 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $17 adults, $5 child | www. westernslopeconcertseries.org | 970-234-5661

April 7-8

Delta Volunteer Fair

Are you looking for ways to give back to your community? Learn about unique and creative ways to volunteer in Delta County at the Chamber of Commerce. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, 4-6 p.m. Friday | 301 Main St., Delta | Free | chamber@deltacolorado.org | 970-874-8616

April 7-10

Western Movie Celebration

Saddle up this spring and get ready to relive five classic western movies as they return to the silver screen:

52 | CALENDAR | APRIL 2022 |

CALENDAR

Hugh Phillips’ tunes talk about what real country sounds are and the hard work that makes an artist these days. Upstairs at Precedence’s lounge and bar will open at 4 p.m. 7 p.m. | 511 E. Main St., Montrose | $10 | www.precedenceproductions. com | 970-209-0298

April 8

Taste of Spring

In this fundraiser for Delta County Young Life, sample some of Western Colorado’s finest cuisine, most sought-after wines, craft beers and unique spirits offerings at the Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Music by Cousin Curtiss. 5-8 p.m. | 531 Palmer St, Delta | $50 | www.tasteofspringdelta.com | 970-216-5680

April 8

Writing Poems to Save and Spark

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Montrose Library for a poetry reading and writing workshop with award-winning poet Beth Paulson. 6-8 p.m. | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | Free | www.montroselibrary.org/ event | 970-249-9656

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

April 8

Alicia Stockman Live

Enjoy an evening of folk/americana at Healthy Rhythm, where Alicia Stockman pulls back the veil to reveal everyday vulnerability in her music. Her songs are written like intimate moments, drawing listeners into a relatable emotional journey. 7:30 p.m. | 232 E. Main St., Montrose | $15+ | www.healthyrhythm. net

April 10

Music of Stage and Screen

Montrose Community Band delights audiences with songs from West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, Blues Brothers and Les Misérables at the Montrose Pavilion. Tickets not required 3 p.m. | 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | www.montroseband.com | 970-901-5366

April 16

I Am Not Myself: The Sense of Loss

Dr. Edith Johnson lectures on loss, grief and self-identity, and how having a deeper understanding of the grieving process will help us to support and empower others to live a happier and healthier life. 10:30-11:30 a.m. | 180 SW 6th Ave., Cedaredge | Free | www.deltalibrar ies.org/events | 970-399-7674

April 16

Film Screening: Earl Bliss

Watch a film screening sponsored by the NextFifty Initiative about Native American artist Earl Bliss, The

Spirit Who Walks Among His People, at Curtis Hall in Paonia—or visit the website for Zoom link. 7-9 p.m. | 226 Grand Ave., Paonia | Free | www.bluesage.org | 970-5277243

April 21

Birds of Play with Gabrielle Louise

With a dynamic mix of sentimentality and playfulness, Birds of Play’s original music will take you on a joyous journey filled with tales of love lost and found, ballads of wild places, and the radical idea that being happy for no reason at all is reason enough. Doors to The Sherbino open at 7 p.m. Standing room show with limited seating. 7:30 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway | $20+ | www.sherbino.org | 970-3180892

April 22

Death of a Pugilist

Set on the quayside docks amid the squalor of working-class life in 1820s England, the narrative follows a young man as he comes of age with music weaving the rich layers of emotional tapestry and humanity. Drawing from the musical elements of contrapuntal Bach, minimalistic Philip Glass, blues and Irish folk music, the production creates an experience of story and music that is deeply moving and truly unique. Doors open at 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway | $20-$25 | www.sherbino.org | 970-318-0892

CALENDAR

April 23

Tenant’s Rights in Colorado

This presentation by attorney Andrea Rosenberry aims to educate tenants on what their rights are under the new laws, as well as include an overview on the eviction process in Colorado. Case-specific answers or case specific legal advice to individuals will not be provided during this presentation. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 211 W. 6th St., Delta | Free | www.deltalibraries. org/events | 970-874-9630

April 23

Javier de los Santos Live

This is Spanish guitar at its finest! Only through years of tireless practice and dedication has Western Colorado musician Javier de los Santos been invited to perform classical guitar all across the globe. Now he returns to play Curtis Hall in Paonia. 7-9 p.m. | 226 Grand Ave., Paonia | $20 | www.bluesage.org | 970-5277243

April 23

Rocky Mountain Oyster & Red Dirt Festival

This year’s festival at the Montrose County Event Center features Reckless Kelly, a Grammy-award winning Red Dirt/Americana music stalwart, along with Joshua Ray Walker and Sam Cox. Food will be available for purchase. 5-11 p.m. | 1036 N. 7th St., Montrose | $25-$65 | www.montrosecounty eventcenter.com | 970-964-2180

April 23-24

Let’s Dance!

Showcasing dance styles through the ages, the final Valley Symphony Orchestra concert of the season speaks to the unity among the arts and how they draw on each other for inspiration. From waltz and tango to swing, selections and live performances underscore the timeless connection between music and dance. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday

| 1800 Pavilion Dr., Montrose | $20$25 | www.valleysymphony.net | 970-275-8676

April 26

Wood Belly

Come to The Sherbino for a musical collective of Chris Weist (mandolin), Tom Knowlton (guitar), Chris Zink (dobro), Aaron McCloskey (banjo) and Taylor Shuck (bass). A Wood Belly song has its own lyrical persona and masterful arrangement rooted in bluegrass tradition and planted solidly in contemporary innovation. Doors open at 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway | $20-$25 | www.sherbino.org | 970-318-0892

Schedule Your Screening (970) 252-2893

 

April 26

Veritas: A Time Together Tour The sound of Veritas has captured not only the ears but the hearts of listeners across the globe. With backgrounds in opera, musical theater, rock, gospel and pop, the five voices join together to create the wall of sound for which they have become known. 7-9 p.m. | 822 Grand Ave., Delta | $20 | www.concertassociation.net/ DeltaCO | 970-249-4308

April 28-May 1 Book Sale

Fill your summer reading at Friends of the Montrose Library’s Spring Book Sale. Members get a head start on Thursday. 12-6 p.m. Friday, 1-5 p.m. Saturday & Sunday | 320 S. 2nd St., Montrose | Free | www.montroselibrary.org/ event | 970-249-9656

April 29

Spaghetti Dinner

Enjoy a spaghetti dinner with salad and roll at the Elks Lodge to benefit the lodge and Montrose Center for the Arts. There will also be a cash bar. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | 801 S. Hillcrest Dr., Montrose | $15-$17; kids under 6 free | 970-249-4852 n

SEE MORE EVENTS AT: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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

Colorow is a skilled nursing facility that believes in healthy living, person-centered care and nontraditional approaches in meeting everyday needs. Our services include: Respite Care • Hospice Care • Short and Long Term Skilled Nursing Care Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation Care Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy 855 S. Hwy 50 Business Loop Olathe, CO 81425

970.323.5504

www.vivage.com/Colorow We Accept: Medicare • Medicaid • RMHMO • Private Pay • PACE • and More WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | CALENDAR |

Montrose & Delta Alpine Photography Club meets in classroom 100 at Colorado Mesa University’s Montrose campus. 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. Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets at Montrose Senior Center. Thursdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-323-5860 Book Club meets virtually through Montrose Regional Library. 1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

CLUBS

Chess Club meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta. 5:30-8 p.m. | Tuesdays | 970-8740923 Citizen’s Climate Lobby meets at Montrose Regional Library. 1st Monday | 5:30 p.m. | 970-765-9095 Crafternoon meets in Montrose Library’s meeting room. Members knit and crochet projects to donate to charities. Supplies provided. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays | 2:30- 4:30 p.m. | 970-249-9656 Crafty Chatty members socialize and work on craft projects. Bring

W E ’ R E S T I L L W I T H YO U

your own materials. Call for details. 970-249-7198 Columbine Quilters gather monthly for fellowship and refreshments at 4 Hilcrest Plaza Way, Montrose. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-4623849 | paulalakecity@gmail.com Delta Hub-Wheelers Square Dance Club seeks new dancers! 970-773-4495 | deltawriter47@ gmail.com Friendship Quilters meet at Montrose County Fairgrounds’ Friendship Hall 4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 970-417-4842 Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society meets at Montrose Genealogy Center. Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m. | 970-240-1755 Gold Prospectors of America meets at Olathe Community Center. 3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-596-9184 | www.wcgpaa.org

If you’re one of the many family members we’ve served, please know that you are always in our thoughts and prayers. Experiencing a loss can profoundly affect your life. Our friendly and caring staff are here to listen and help you through these tough times. We also have an extensive library of grief resources that many have found helpful. If interested, call or stop by our main office at 682 1725 Rd. in Delta.

Delta 970-874-9988

Hotchkiss 970-872-3151

Cedaredge 970-856-3232

Paonia 970-527-3836

Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. www.mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970-765-0599 | mmaaflyer@gmail. com

Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at Montrose Pavilion. Dancers of all ages are welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-11 p.m. | $5 | 970-252-7172 Party Bridge Club meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta. 1-4 p.m. | Thursdays | 970-874-0923

Golden Circle of Friends meets for lunch at Montrose Senior Center. Bring lunch and socialize. Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

San Juan Dance Club offers dance lessons at Precedence Dance Academy in Montrose. Singles welcome. Thursdays | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 970-252-9600 | patdouglas213@ yahoo.com

Kiwanis Club of Delta meets at Daveto’s for lunch. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 12 p.m. | 970-985-8413

Tuesday Needlers Delta meets at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays | 970874-0923

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970986-2550 | lvcribbs@charter.net

Veterans Coffee Cedaredge meets at The Pondy. 3rd Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center. 3rd Friday | 7 p.m. | 970-417-6142

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center. Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org

Montrose County Historical Society meets at Friendship Hall at Montrose County Fairgrounds. 1st Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2492085 | www.montrosehistory.org Montrose Elks hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-249-4852

Veterans Coffee Westend meets at the Nucla Airport. 2nd Wednesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | www.whafv.org Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road. 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-209-5326 ■

List Your Club for FREE!

www.taylorfuneralservice.com 54 | CLUBS | APRIL 2022 |

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FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement. 10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Escalante Canyon Talk & Tour

To register for programs, call 970-252-4884 or visit www.montroserec.com Did you know that Montrose Recreation District offers scholarships for adults 55 and older? Get a 20-punch pass for $49.50 or get half-price trips. Call 970-249-7705 for details.

FREE LECTURES Lectures take place in the Senior Center Dining Room. Call to reserve your seat: 970-252-4884 Wild Mustangs

Alice Billings hosts a slide presentation about how to build trust and partnerships with wild mustangs. 1 p.m. | April 11 | Senior Center

History of the Mountain West Kate Burke’s presentation includes details and pictures of 28 restored historic buildings and incredibly detailed displays at Museum of the Mountain West. 1 p.m. | April 18 | Senior Center

TRIPS & TOURS Grand Mesa Film Festival

This all-shorts film festival in Cedaredge features submissions from emerging and experienced filmmakers. Bring money for dinner. 1:30-7:30 p.m. | April 2 | $21 | Meet at Field House

Black Ridge Trail hike

This moderate 4.5-mile guided hike on the Colorado National Monument will also be educational, as our guide shares historic photos and flora facts along the way. 7:45 a.m.-4 p.m. | April 16 | $20 | Meet at Field House

Learn about the 21 families who homesteaded Escalante Canyon and the trails and trials of the pioneer cattlemen from Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center Director Chris Miller. 9:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | April 19 | $26 | Meet at Senior Center

Pigs and Alpacas tour

Tour Pig-A-Sus pot-bellied pig sanctuary and Horse Mountain Alpacas. Bring money for lunch at Cattlemen’s Bar & Grill. 7:45 a.m.-5 p.m. | April 28 | $27 | Meet at Senior Center

The Magnolia Trial & The Heart of Texas

Take a tour of many Texas highlights such as Historic JFK sites, Fort Worth Stockyards, Dr. Pepper Museum and more. Pay by July 31 and receive $400 off (per couple). October 15-19, 2022 | $2,149 per person double occupancy

Body Blitz

To register for programs, call 970-874-0923 or visit www.cityofdelta.net/parksrecgolf

GAMES Pinochle

1-4 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Dominoes

1-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | $15

FITNESS Pickleball

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class. 9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m. Thursdays

Dance Fit

A high-energy choreographed dance class guaranteed to burn some energy and shake some stress! 4:30 p.m. | Thursdays

POOL FITNESS Monday Movers

Jumpstart your week with a mid to high-intensity cardio and strength training water class. 5:30 p.m. | Mondays

Indoor pickleball transitions to outdoor play after April 15. Indoor schedule: 7:30-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | 12:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays

Pool Power

Jam Session/Sing Along

Pilates

Enjoy a combination of aerobic and full-body workout in the pool. 10:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Line Dancing

Senior Circuit

Ceramics & Crafters Day

Bring your own project or buy one from us! Bring your own tools and table cover if painting. 12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | Senior Center Craft Room

GAMES Contact the senior center for a schedule! Bridge coming soon! Call Bob at 970-209-2476 to play! Games start April 21. ■

Low-impact movements that improve flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. 12 p.m. Mondays | 9 a.m. Fridays Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises. 9 a.m. | Monday through Friday

Body Bar

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas. 9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Body & Health

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength, designed for beginners. 10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

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

Tone those muscles, pump up that heart, and get an overall good workout with water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges. 5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Yoga Fusion

Silver Sneakers Splash

This vinyasa flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre elements. 12 p.m. Tuesdays | 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays

Healthy Body Strong Bones Use simple hand weights to help increase flexibility, balance and bone strength. 9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

A fun shallow-water exercise class that uses a signature splash-board to increase movement. Suitable for non-swimmers. 8:30 a.m. | Mondays & Wednesdays

Splash Fit

Enjoy a dance party in the pool, fun for all fitness levels. 5:30 p.m. | Wednesdays ■

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | FUN AFTER 50 |

Montrose & Delta Region 10 RSVP launches Handy Helper program in Delta

BEACON BITS

Valley Symphony orchestra conductor announces retirement

Do you need a handy person? RSVP’s Delta Handy Helper Program can help anyone over 60 years of age with minor home maintenance repairs such as replacing light bulbs, batteries and filters; installing grab bars, handrails and smoke detectors; starting swamp coolers; building wheelchair ramps and risers; minor plumbing and electrical work; interior and exterior painting; caulk or grout repair, and more. For more information or to request help, call 844-862-4968. To volunteer, contact Kylynn Wilson at 970765-3135 or kylynn@region10.net

Montrose Regional Health only seven-time top 100 rural and community hospital awardee Montrose Regional Health (MRH) announced it has been named one of the Top 100 Rural & Community

Valley Symphony Association (VSA) confirmed that long-time VSA orchestra conductor Michael J. Kern has announced his retirement at the end of the association’s 50th season in April. Kern has been conducting the VSA Orchestra since 1993. He is a graduate of Butler University in Indianapolis with a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in music composition. Kern acknowledged the special nature of

Hospitals in the U.S. by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. It is the only hospital in Colorado with this recognition for seven consecutive years. Despite unprecedented adversity, rural providers continue to display resiliency and a steadfast commitment to their communities. Awardees are recognized for

having a performing arts organization like VSA in the region and how it all hinges on the willingness of volunteer musicians to selflessly share their gifts. The VSA board will announce the selection process for the next orchestra conductor in the coming months. For information, upcoming concerts and news on VSA’s 2022-2023 season, visit www.valleysymphony. org or call 970-275-8676.

the exceptional performance and innovation of this year’s recipients, particularly in light of the extraordinary challenges facing America’s rural health safety net. Only four Colorado hospitals made the 2022 list, with Montrose Regional Health the only awardee within 100 miles in any direction. For more infor-

mation, call 970-252-2513 or visit www.montrosehealth.com.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers series

Are you feeling stretched caring for a military member or a veteran? Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a class designed to provide you, the caregiver, with skills to take care

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of yourself. Starting May 19, this series of six classes, held virtually once each week, offers tools and support to help you reduce stress, solve problems and communicate confidently when faced with tough decisions. Classes are conducted on Zoom from 6-7:30 p.m. Cost is $40. To register, visit go.iastate. edu/RE58OT. If cost is a barrier and you’re 60 or older, call Eva Veitch at 970-765-3127.

Free dementia and Alzheimer’s webinars

The Alzheimer’s Association is offering a series of free webinars. Register by calling 800-272-3900. • April 5, 9:30-11 a.m. 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease • April 11, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. April 21, 4:30-6 p.m. Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia

SUPPORT GROUPS

• April 12, 9:30-11 a.m. Dementia Conversations • April 14, 4-5:30 p.m. Caregiver’s Guide to Managing Money • April 19, 9:30-11 a.m. Effective Communication Strategies • April 20, 9:30-11 a.m. Understanding & Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors • April 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Legal & Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s ■

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Friends of Montrose Library volunteers sort donated books and run book sales. www.montroselibrary.org | Call 970-249-9656 Golden Circle Seniors volunteers greet and serve lunch during the week. Call 970-252-4888

COVID-19 Grief Group meets at Touch of Care in Montrose. Last Tuesday | 12 p.m. | 970-7879988 Dementia Caregivers Support Group in Delta meets in locations throughout Delta County. . 1st & 3rd Wednesday at Grand Mesa Arts Center in Cedaredge | 2nd & 4th Wednesday at Hotchkiss Town Hall | Thursdays at 480 Silver St. in Delta | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724 Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room. 2nd Tuesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 970-874-6410 NAMI Family Support Group meets at the PIC Place, 87 Merchant Drive, Montrose. 3rd Wednesday | 5:30-7 p.m. | 970-520-282-9060

Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans volunteers to help at its ReStore or construction sites. www.buildinglives.org | Call 970-252-9303

TOPS Montrose weight-loss support group meets weekly at Hillcrest Congregational Church. Mondays | 5 p.m. | 970-901-8697

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. www.timebankoftherockies. com | 970-209-6886

Museum of the Mountain West volunteer tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. www.museumofthemountain west.org | 970-240-3400 Senior CommUnity Meals seeks volunteer delivery drivers to help seniors in Delta and Montrose counties. www.seniorcommunitymeals. org | 970-874-7661 Sharing Ministries Food Bank in Montrose seeks volunteers for three hours, one day a week. www.sharingministries.com | 970-240-8385

Question

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Siggie Carpenter

What was your high school prom like? Karen Cunningham - Montrose “I’m from Ireland and we called it ‘The Debutantes Ball’. I wore a gorgeous ivory dress and my mother let me wear her emerald ring and bracelet. My dad gave my date a hard time and said he was wearing a mourning suit because his jacket had tails—we still laugh about that. It was a fabulous memory taking a taxi to the luxurious downtown Drury Hotel in Dublin.”

Laura Lee Yates - Paonia “I graduated in 1970 and went to the world-renowned Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco for my senior prom. I ended up marrying the man and we were married almost 25 years.”

Howard Sizemore - Montrose “I went to my junior and senior proms with my girlfriend. After I graduated, a friend asked me to be her senior prom date. All three proms were held at Montrose High School’s cafeteria. We got all dressed up and did the limo ride—they were all fun times.”

Kathy Riggle - Montrose “The year I went to Durango High School’s prom, I was the only sophomore to be asked by a senior. I remember great music and dancing—one of my favorite things to do—and, how I almost didn’t recognize many of my friends because they were all dressed up. I wore a fluffy dress and some of the boys wore tuxedos.”

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ACROSS 1. 5. 10. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 22. 24. 25. 26. 28. 32. 35. 37. 38. 39. 41. 42. 45. 46. 47. 48. 50. 54.

Mex. miss Personal histories Foundation Aromatic plant Manuscript sheet Singer Fitzgerald Burden of proof Hard stone Sorry to say... Sharp reply Cause to explode First prime minister of India Fix, as a shoe Highland hillside Clear the board “___ Tu” (‘70s hit) Chum Institution for mentally ill Sun. speech Snow conveyances Give guns to Specimen Epoch One hunted D-Day beach Pizarro victim Makes sense Killer whales

58. 61. 62. 63. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69.

Jerry Seinfeld, e.g. Soul Work without ___ Stop on ___ Slender Cuban coin Illuminated ___ facto “The Good Earth” heroine 70. Sows 71. Smart talk

DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Trimmed of wool Actress Zellweger Verity Soaks up Fizzling sound Earthlink competitor 7. Slip 8. Sticking points 9. ___ voce (softly) 10. Cheap restaurant 11. ___ breve 12. Blind part 13. Alleviate 21. Capek play 23. Bullfight cheers 25. Actual

27. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 36. 37. 40. 43. 44. 46. 49. 51. 52. 53. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 64.

Church feature Banned apple spray Confident TV award Exxon predecessor 500 sheets Columnist Bombeck Bruce ___ was a famous kung-fu movie star Slippery ___ eel Tap trouble Light four-wheeled carriage “Shane” star Partial motor paralysis Against a proposition Clock faces ___ Hawkins Day Band together Mea ___ Out of whack Greek island Guitar device Like Nash’s lama Arizona city Enlivens, with “up” Kind of pie

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CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS RATES

Glenna & Waldo Jarmin 70th Anniversary Party

July 30th • 11am-3pm Goodland United Methodist Church 1116 Sherman Ave., Goodland, Kansas

Waldo Jermin played football and packed peaches in Grand Junction during the school year. He lived with his Aunt Ber and Uncle Ornie Fellows.

CAREGIVERS Host home providers needed. Get paid to support an adult with intellectual disabilities live their best lives. Call 970-245-1616 for more information.

CLASSES MAKE A PORCELAIN DOLL classes, supplies & sales. Make a doll from start to finish! Fun Hobby * Bring a Friend * CERAMIC CLASSES also. Call for class times. 970778-8075. Always Free Women’s Self Defense classes for Ladies 18 and older for groups of 2 to 24. No athleticism required with safety for all. Simple yet effective methods to escape assault. Offered by nationally certified Black Belt with over 35 years of experience. Please call (not text) Bob at 970261-2445 and leave your name and number.

BANK ON CLASSIFIEDS to turn your want ads into dollars!

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15th of Each Month

HEALTH & WELLNESS 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.

HELP WANTED Bookcliff Country Club Golf Course Maintenance is accepting applications. Flexible schedules are available. Work outdoors. Golf benefit. Apply online at bookcliffcc.com/about/ employment or email grounds@ bookcliffcc.com. 970-243-3323 RETIRED/NEED EXTRA INCOME? Part-time medical delivery position available. Shift starts at 2:45 a.m. Good driving record and ability to drive a manual transmission. Flexibility and dependability essential. Call for details. 254-2897.

HOME SERVICES SCENE CLEARLY, LLC. Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter! Grand Junction area. Call Frank Cordova at 970-2421264. 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. 970-216-0048. HOUSECLEANER experienced, all general household chores, windows, gardening, spring clean-up. Detailoriented, hard worker, available. Call Kristin 970-361-0811.

List it. Sell it. Done. 970-243-8829, x102

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HOME SERVICES

SERVICES

THE CLEANING LADY. Spring Cleaning time is here, let’s clean out the clutter! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just once. Linda K. 720-841-7505 or 970-263-7364.

Pat's Hair Salon & Ceramics All Hair Salon Services Available

20% SENIOR DISCOUNT. Call Dragon Heating & A/C, Inc. Serving the Western Slope since 2006. Your Comfort is Our Business. Call to schedule services and for a free estimate: 970-858-4775. www. dragonhvac.com. KETTLE ELECTRIC New construction, remodeling, inspections, and troubleshooting. Reasonable prices. 970-241-4825. AMBER’S HOUSE CLEANING, LLC. Here making an honest living to help make your life easier. Licensed and insured. References available. Mesa County, 970-985-8178.

SERVICES Hair on Wheels at your door. Barbering, haircuts, color, all your hair needs. Senior Discounts. Call Melodie 970-201-0267.

Great Prices on Perms Senior Discounts

CERAMIC & PORCELAIN DOLL MAKING CLASSES & SUPPLIES

970-778-8075 SMITH’S HANDYMAN SERVICES, LLC Locally owned business, providing your home care needs. No job to small, licensed, and insured. 970309-9338 COMPUTER LADY, LLC. In-home repair. 20 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 970-255-1216.

HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL OR A SERVICE TO OFFER? List it here!

Call Stacey at 970-243-8829

to reserve your space in next month’s issue.

Puzzle Answers

SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TAX SERVICES AT MESA MALL Professional Tax Services with TaxPros at the Mesa Mall next to Cabela’s. Come in or give us a call for an obligation-free consultation today! 970-340-8166. Cleaning, shopping transportation Agape Foodand Bank of Lower Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,800 services! 20 year’s experience. Salvation Army – Thanksgiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000 References. Serving Grand Junction area.Salvation Call 406-899-2586. Army – Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000

Catholic Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,600 SENIOR BEAUTY SPECIAL. First-time clients receive $10 off single Meals on Wheels of service, Mesa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,600 $15 off cut and color packages. Grand Regan’s RegalValley Beauty,Pets 2500Alive North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000 Ave.,Canyon #2, GrandWest Junction. Call Regan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,600 Food Bank to schedule: 719-425-0543 Grand Valley Equine Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000 WANTED BUY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $600 Fruita SeniorTO Lunches USED BOOKS Buy, Sell or Trade. ofon thehundreds West - Cowboy Poetry . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000 GentlyMuseum used books of subjects. Oaks Westerns, Assistedromance, Living – Resident Accts . . . . . . . . . . . . . $375 mysteries, suspense, kids, young FFA and Club . . . others. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$7,000 adult,FMHS inspirational many LargeGrand print. Special orders. 970-242Valley Horse Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000 3911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, Fall Festival sponsor 2885Fruita North Ave., Ste. B. located in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500 front Memorials of Walmart next to Subway. – Volunteers10-6 / Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sunday. **Bring this ad Senior Thanksgiving Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500 in forFruita $10 Trade Credit** Willows Assisted Living – Resident Accounts . . . . . . . . $400 Christmas Wreaths - Vets - Elmwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5,000 Fruita Art/Culture Board - Art / Roundabout . . . . . . . . .$1,200 Loma Elementary School - Playground Equipment . . .$10,000

Total Donations in 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . $45,275 We sincerely thank our customers and those who generously donated to the Fruita Thrift Shop . Without your support, we would not be able to put this financial help back into your community . Due to the COVID-19 Virus, we were closed for several months in 2020, which brought down our profits quite a bit, but we were finally able to open up again and were able to donate to some very worthwhile causes, especially food banks as that was a very important need during the crisis . We are always looking for new volunteers who are willing to give 4 hours or more a month to help with stocking new items and working behind the counter . If you are interested in giving back to your community and being a part of this organization, please stop by on days that we are open and speak to one of the volunteers for more information . It can be a very rewarding feeling . And, as you can see, the money stays in your valley .

Changing Donations Into Community Dollars

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2022 | CLASSIFIEDS |

OPINION

Ageism in health care: What does it look like? By Kris Geerken

health, abilities or lifestyle.

ave you ever been told your health concerns are simply because of your age? Have you ever felt unheard or invisible during a medical appointment? I sure have! This is ageism in healthcare, and it’s a big problem. It may look like this:

Shortage of providers with expertise: The U.S. has a significant shortage of health professionals with aging expertise. We pay overwhelming amounts of money to avoid looking older, yet we are living longer than ever!

Elderspeak: Talking to older adults as though they are children may be well-intentioned and meant to be compassionate, however, saying things like “Sweetie, it’s okay,” leads older adults to feel incompetent and depressed. Undertreatment and overtreatment: Many of us find that our pain is consistently undertreated, or you may be overtreated with too many prescriptions. You may also be told to have potentially unnecessary and expensive medical tests only because you have reached a certain age, regardless of your actual

Medicare limitations: Original Medicare does not include basic vision, hearing or dental care. Not providing access to basic levels of care is ageist. We know that poor dental health is associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and can make eating difficult. Poor vision can lead to falls and restrict mobility. Hearing loss can lead to depression, isolation and cognitive decline. Lack of technology support: The digital divide refers to those who have access to the internet and tech devices, and those who don’t.

During the pandemic, telehealth expanded, yet many older adults do not have access to this option. This health care treatment option is not age-inclusive. Isolation: Social isolation and loneliness have serious impacts on mortality, physical health and mental health, including depression and anxiety. During the pandemic, older adults were urged or mandated to remain inside without visitors. While this may have been well-intentioned, public health professionals and policymakers need to take into consideration the dramatic impacts of being disconnected from others. Next time you feel you are experiencing ageism in health care, take these steps: • If your provider implies your health concern is because of your age, ask for more details. Find

out about treatment options and get clarification about recommended medications and tests. • If you feel invisible or dismissed by your provider, ask them to speak directly to you—not to the person who may be accompanying you. Let them know you would like “person-centered care,” and to be talked to like a competent adult. Want to hear more about how ageism impacts healthcare from experts who advocate for age-friendly healthcare? Watch “Antidotes for Ageism,” a short film, at www. changingthenarrativeco.org/healthcare-antidotes-for-ageism-video. ■ Kris Geerken, MHA, is the Program Manager of the Age-Friendly Healthcare campaign for Changing the Narrative.

Celebrating each life, beautifully and affordably. Dedicated to providing personal, compassionate care and attention

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s ’ e k i M l a u n n A t s ir F

BREATH-DAY GOL F T O U R NA M ENT

SATURDAY APRIL 30, 2022 Adobe Creek Golf Course

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Ready to Sign Up? Scan the QR Code or go to NoMoO2Golf@corsizio.com Want to be a Sponsor? Have a Donation? Call or Text 970-985-0061