Issuu

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

JULY 2021

Suck it up, 100 Spartan races is just fun in the mud for this 80-year-old

Nominations open for Volunteer of the Year

Six ways to protect your pet from extreme heat

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I N T HI S I S S U E

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado July 2021 | Volume 34 | Issue 7

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg Graphic Designers B. Bigler Michael L. Madsen

8 COVER STORY

He’s one tough mudder

Paul Lachance is on track to complete 100 Spartan trifectas before his 80th birthday

Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude

Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Lauren VanGundy Brittney Bade JR Milner

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.

While some stores closed due to COVID-19, these businesses owners are more than optimistic

28 Up your jet lag IQ

Traveling east can seriously mess with your circadian rhythm. Is jet lag a serious malady? You bet

Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy Advertising Executive Debra Romaniec

26 Back to business: New Montrose stores open during pandemic

My love affair with Bob Ross I am deeply grateful for all the lessons, both in art and in life, that I learned from Bob Ross.

14 As the world spins

If you know someone who suffers from vertigo, here’s how you can help them

16 Eating tips for best pre- and post-op outcomes

Eating the right foods can prevent complications and provide the proteins necessary to heal quickly

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.

Western Colorado Senior Games official program Register by August 16 for this epic week-long competition for athletes 50 and older. Find the oﬃcial program and registration form inside

35 6 tips to keep you safe from internet bad guys

If you receive urgent bad news in an email or phone call, don’t panic

38 Opening wallets and hearts

Giving Clubs make big community impact with little effort

44 MESA COUNTY

Extreme heat advisory for pets Lathering your dog with pet-friendly sunscreen is just one way to protect your pets from extreme heat and sun

22 Think like a forest

On the Cover

Paul Lachance will complete his 100th Spartan race this summer—coinciding with his 80th birthday. Photo courtesy of Spartan

Varying degrees of light, moisture and warmth help to create tastier veggies and a more vibrant garden

24 Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll

Readers share their memories from the Summer of Love 1967

44 46 47 50

Calendar Clubs & Activities Question of the Month Support Groups

52 MONTROSE & DELTA 52 54 57

Calendar Clubs & Activities Question of the Month

58 Fun & Games 60 Classifieds 62 Opinion

Do you need Social Security?

MESA COUNTY DELTA COUNTY MONTROSE COUNTY n

Nominations due Friday, July 16 • Voting begins Tuesday, July 27 The BEACON’s Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes our community’s exceptional volunteers age 50 or older. Do you know an outstanding volunteer? Show your appreciation by nominating them for this prestigious award.

Mesa County volunteers will be recognized at

Montrose and Delta County volunteers will be recognized at

Grand Junction BeaconFest

Montrose-Delta BeaconFest

September 9, 2021 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St.

October 14, 2021 • 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Dr.

How to Nominate

How to Vote

1. Fill out the nomination form at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com/VOYnominate

Readers can learn about each exceptional volunteer in our August issue, and vote for their favorite nominee.

2. Include a headshot of your volunteer. Your nomination and the volunteer’s photo will be published in next month’s issue*, at which time our readers will vote for the winner—one in Mesa County and one in Montrose or Delta counties. Please notify your volunteer of their nomination. All volunteers will be called to the stage and recognized at BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair. Only one nomination per agency, please. Nominated volunteers must be Western Slope residents age 50 or older. *nominations may be edited for space

n Vote online at:

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com n Mail printed ballot to:

(coming in the August issue) BEACON Senior News

PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Online voting closes Wednesday, September 1 at 11:59 p.m. Printed ballots must be received that day by 4 p.m.

To reserve a booth at BeaconFest— Colorado’s largest senior fair— call 243-8829

EDITOR'S COLUMN

Grandpa is a BEAST! W

hen we heard from Paul Lachance about his plan to complete 100 Spartan races by his 80th birthday, I knew we had to share his story in the BEACON. For those unfamiliar with Spartan races, they are no walk in the park. These competitions are known for combining brutal obstacles and unforgiving terrain, topped off with lots of water, even mud. Often the oldest competitor at these races, Paul's mere presence is inspiring—and so is his journey. Read more about it on page 8.

FUN, FOOD AND PRIZES AT BEACONFEST We’re looking forward to seeing you at this year’s BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fairs in Grand Junction and Montrose. Both shows feature an exciting lineup of entertainment, free food, lively seminars, door prize giveaways and informational booths from local vendors. Best of all, admission is FREE! � Grand Junction BeaconFest 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, September 9 Grand Junction Convention Center (formerly Two Rivers) � Montrose-Delta BeaconFest 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, October 14 Montrose Pavilion For more information or to reserve your booth, call 243-8829 or visit www.beaconseniornews. com.

LETTERS

from our readers

HONOR OUR VOLUNTEERS Volunteer of the Year nominations due July 16 So many local organizations rely on the selfless generosity of volunteers. Especially now and at the start of the pandemic, nonprofits have relied on volunteers to help carry out their mission and services to those who rely on them. Do you know a volunteer who really stepped up to the plate this past year? Show them how much you appreciate them by nominating them for the BEACON’s Volunteer of the Year award. This honor is open to any volunteer age 50 or older living in Mesa, Montrose or Delta counties. (Details on page 6.)

DELTA VARIANT SPREADING ACROSS MESA COUNTY Unfortunately, Mesa County is at the epicenter for the new coronavirus variant, which experts say is 50 percent more contagious than the original COVID strain. While it’s nice to be able to show our maskless faces around town again, we’re not out of the woods just yet. The good news for those vaccinated is an added layer of protection. (The Pfizer vaccine is said to be 88 percent effective against the variant). The bad news is that while the number of cases in Delta and Montrose counties remain low, the state is starting to see more cases of the variant outside of Mesa County. ■

“I just want to let you know how much I appreciate the BEACON. It’s hard to find up here but I’ve always enjoyed it and the articles and the way it’s laid out. I just think it’s such a fine magazine and I really appreciate it. I may be leaving this part of the country in the next six months, and I wanted to know if there is any way I can go online to read about it or get the information from it?” - Marian Marchun, Cedaredge “I love your magazine. Thank you for putting it out. Some of the jokes I don’t like. This time none of them were good. Especially, please don’t do anything about Jesus that isn’t nice. I like the coloring pages. I color them every time. I’m not very good at coloring animals, but I’m pretty good at flowers. Please have nice jokes.” - Velma B., Delta RE: “Turning up gold” (June) “We loved the article. It was very well received in our gold mining community. Thanks to Melanie for her interest and thanks to you all for getting the story out!” - Wes Morlang RE: “The benefit of bats” (June) “If you’ve found a bat, read this: Like most mammals, bats can contract rabies. However, less than one half of one percent of bats actually catch the disease. Additionally, sick bats do not seek people out for attack; they generally search for a secluded spot to die quietly. Although, it’s important to protect yourself and them. Never rescue a bat bare-handed.” - Steve L., Grand Junction RE: “Can you pass this financial literacy quiz?” (June) “Yes. Aced it!” - Vic V.

We asked readers about some of their pandemic projects. Ron Young wrote in: “The British Tea Clipper ‘Cutty Sark’ was built in 1869. I bought the kit decades ago and finished it during shelter in place. There is great satisfaction upon completion of a project like this. Researching the ship is, for me, great fun.”

RE: Question of the Month (June) “Our last name is Weisner, not Weisman, and we’ve been married 29 years not 16 years. I did divorce [John] and married him again, but that span was so short. I like the BEACON.” - DJ Weisner

Cloie Sandlin, Editor in Chief Cloie@BeaconSeniorNews.com

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

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

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

COVER STORY

He’s one

h g u to

mudder

80-year-old Paul Lachance sets sights on 100th Spartan Race By Corey Colombin

EXTREME FUN

magine an extreme obstacle race that involves hefting 60-pound sandbags, crawling through mud, scaling steep walls and traversing cargo nets, interspersed with jogging distances of up to 13 miles. Now imagine doing a trifecta—three races building up from 3 miles to 6, to the final 13-mile race—all for the fun of it! Paul Lachance has not only imagined it; he’s on track to finish eight trifectas this year—the same year he turns 80. Lachance wasn’t always a fitness fanatic. In fact, he’s experienced some health issues that might’ve sidelined even the heartiest of older adults. Back in 2006, he underwent a quadruple bypass surgery. It was while in physical therapy post-surgery that he made the decision to get a better handle on his health, turning to the world of Spartan Races in 2014. “I started taking more interest in physical fitness and searching the internet for interesting workouts,” Lachance said. “I came across these people crawling in the mud, going over walls, and said, ‘I can do this.’”

Spartan Races feature a series of challenging obstacles across distances that can span as long as a marathon. These obstacle courses have become quite the craze for people of all ages to test their mettle. Lachance was 73 when he discovered Spartan Races. Although there are age classes for competing, he found that the 60-and-up class had fewer competitors and wasn’t nearly as fun. Now, he competes in the open class for anyone age 16 and older. While admittedly a slower jogger and not nearly as agile as the others on the obstacles, Lachance is a stand-out competitor with the distinction of being the oldest racer nearly every time. He doesn’t race competitively for money prizes, but he does race for the glory of finishing. Lachance’s walls of medals and ribbons tell the story of a determined man. He’s competed

8 | COVER STORY | JULY 2021

Veteran and cancer-survivor Paul Lachance will be completing his 100th Spartan race this summer— coinciding with his 80th birthday.

| WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

across Colorado and in 13 different states, meeting many amazing racers along the way. A Navy veteran, he often mingles with both able-bodied and impaired vets who participate to support the Wounded Warriors Project. So far, he has competed in 81 races. Just two years after he started racing, Lachance completed three trifectas. Each year since, he’s upped the challenge by adding another. While he wasn’t able to compete in 2020, he expects to complete eight trifectas in 2021 among the 22 races on his schedule, which includes his 100th Spartan Race in Dallas, Texas, in October. “My 100th race is a secondary goal and just happens to be coincidental to my primary goal of getting eight trifectas at age 80,” he said. To commemorate this banner year, Lachance created T-shirts touting the slogan “8 at 80.” His hope is to have as many people as possible wearing the shirts to the races in support of this monumental effort. Purchased T-shirts also support the veteran’s group, American Warrior Initiative. “American Warrior Initiative actually has been helping me for several years with clothing that supports military personnel when they return home,” he explained. “On Fridays we wear a red shirt that reads ‘RED...Remember Everyone Deployed.’”

COVER STORY

THE GRANDKIDS HAVE A NICKNAME FOR THEIR SPARTAN GRANDPA: “THE BEAST.” Paul Lachance competes in the open class— against anyone 16 and older. While admittedly not as agile as others, he is a stand-out competitor every year.

KICKING CANCER Throughout his life, Lachance has ignored perceived limitations and naysaying. Now, he acts decades younger than the year printed on his birth certificate. When he isn’t traveling to compete and racking up medals, he actively manages his Grand Junction property appraisal business.

HE DOESN’T RACE COMPETITIVELY FOR MONEY PRIZES—HE RACES FOR THE GLORY OF FINISHING.

Lachance and his wife, Davida, sport T-shirts that support the American Warrior Initiative.

Between races, Lachance keeps in physical shape by jogging around nearby Connected Lakes. Because he’s often the oldest competitor at Spartan Races, Lachance’s mere appearance acts as an inspiration to other racers and onlookers. He takes that role seriously, although he’s taken a few tumbles. He makes it look easy, but his journey hasn’t always been. Just two years ago, Lachance was treated for cancer. On his first race after chemotherapy, he wasn’t quite up to his pre-cancer fitness and had a mishap on the Vertical Cargo Net challenge. While Lachance climbed to the top of the big vertical net handily, there he faltered, slipping down the entire 15-foot height, landing on his back. The crowd and fellow racers audibly gasped, followed by a hush. When he dusted himself off and continued the race, his determination had the crowd on their feet, cheering him on. Lachance is sponsored by Boost Oxygen, bearing its slogan “Suck it Up.” For someone who perseveres through challenges and powers

through to the finish line every time, the company couldn’t have picked a better person. “The hardest part of the race is any steep, long hill,” Lachance said. “I get winded very easily when going uphill, so I have to stop often and simply readjust my inner self.” Because his mere presence is so inspiring, every stumble and every victory becomes that much more dramatic. “There’s a reason I’m doing Spartan Races after my heart and cancer issues, and that’s to basically inspire others: youngsters, older people who may have given up or think that they’re too old, people with physical issues, etc.,” Lachance said. “When someone comes up to me and says that I’m their inspiration—they’ve shown my video to their parents to get them off the couch, or simply represent my Navy military affiliation—I feel that I’ve positively impacted them.” It’s not just fellow racers and onlookers that look to Lachance for inspiration. His family has become his own cheering squad, with his grandchildren making stands to display his growing collection of medals, and artwork celebrating his racing tenacity. The grandkids have a nickname for their Spartan grandpa: “The Beast.” As for 2022, Lachance is hopeful. “If my health allows, I’ll be out there inspiring others,” he said. “I’m just an old man having fun with all the youngsters. As long as it’s fun, I’ll be out there. The world needs more positive role models, so why not me?” For updates on his races or to purchase “8 at 80” T-shirts, follow Lachance on Facebook at www.facebook.com/paul.lachance.14 or email him at paul587@bresnan.net. ■

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

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

My love affair with Bob Ross

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’m not sure what first attracted me to Bob Ross. It might have been his outrageous hairstyle, fuzzy and full. It might have been his warm smile or his soft voice. Whatever first attracted me to this man who changed more than a million lives, I’ve been in love with him for at least 15 years. And I’ll never fall out of love with him, for he changed my life, too. It happened suddenly one Saturday morning when I stumbled into the living room, a cup of coffee in my hands trying to wake up. I turned on the television to help ease me into the day and there he was, standing before a blank canvas with a palette in one hand and a two-inch brush in the other. Out of his shirt pocket peeked a tiny little squirrel. He loved squirrels and would often raise babies that’d been abandoned by their mothers. He took that huge paintbrush (which I would’ve used to paint my house) and began crisscrossing color across the top of the canvas to paint in the sky, encouraging his viewers to be bold. “You’ll never believe what you

can do until you get in there and try it,” he said. I was mesmerized. Before my eyes, in one short hour, a beautiful mountain scene took shape. I thought to myself, “I could do this.” The way he easily explained how to paint a mountain, tree or bush encouraged me to go out and buy some oil paints and brushes. The next Saturday, I stood in front of the television, ready to start painting on my own blank canvas.

BEAUTY IN EVERYTHING As the weeks and months went by, it felt like Bob was talking directly to me. “Exercising the imagination, experimenting with talents, being creative…these things, to me, are truly the windows to your soul,” he said. I couldn’t wait until Saturday morning when I could spend time with him. I did all right when I followed his instructions in front of the television, but it was harder to try to paint on my own. I missed him. I needed him.

Arlyn Macdonald shows off one of her Bob Ross-inspired masterpieces at her home in Montrose.

10 | JULY 2021 |

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS Paintings began to fill my bedroom walls. I was too shy to hang any in the living room. From winter scenes to bubbling brooks and little cabins in the woods, we explored nature together. “There’s beauty in every tree and every brush. Just take the time to look at ’em,” he told me. And I did. I began to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors in new ways. I could see the dark shadows and the light, and why they were both important not only in paintings, but in life. “Every day is a good day when you paint,” he said. Just when his viewers thought the painting was finished, he’d pick up another two-inch brush and say, “This is your bravery test. You worked so hard and then a crazyhaired guy tells you to throw in a big ol’ tree on top of it all.” Before you could gasp, he had painted a huge tree right in the front! I learned it was okay not to put the tree in if I didn’t want to, and okay if I did.

I COULD SEE THE DARK SHADOWS AND THE LIGHT, AND WHY THEY WERE BOTH IMPORTANT—NOT ONLY IN PAINTINGS, BUT IN LIFE. Eventually, I gained enough confidence to try a seascape. I suffered over that painting. I didn’t know how difficult it was to paint the ocean waves and capture the glint of sunlight in the curl. He assured me, “The very fact that you’re aware of suffering is enough reason to be overjoyed that you’re alive and can experience it.” In time, I missed our Saturday mornings together, and I moved

into my wise years. I tried my hand at other art forms, but what I learned from my love affair never went away.

A CONTINUING LEGACY Bob passed away on July 4, 1995. I still grieve for him, as do thousands of his other fans. However, we are fortunate to live in this modern world of technology where we can bring him to life

again and experience his gentle spirit through YouTube videos, DVDs and numerous books. From time to time, his show “The Joy of Painting”—the most popular art TV show the world has ever seen—appears again on PBS. His show was on for 31 seasons, with more than 400 episodes airing on 275 stations across the globe. Today, a whole new generation of budding artists are discovering and falling in love with Bob Ross. Every time I hear him say, “Anything we don’t like, we’ll turn it into a happy little tree or something; we don’t make mistakes, we just have happy accidents,” I remember the first time I watched his magic unfold before my eyes. Love fills my heart again. I am deeply grateful for all the lessons, both in art and life, that I learned from Bob Ross. I shall never forget him and what he taught me. “If what you’re doing doesn’t make you happy, you’re doing the wrong thing.” ■

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 |

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I hate road trips with my husband. Help! Dear Readers: A couple of months ago a reader bemoaned the fact that men her age always wanted younger women. I asked to hear from the men on this topic. This was the best response I received: Dear Old Bag: Why men want younger women goes back to why we choose mates. Women look at a guy and think, “I can make something of him,” selecting a remodel project—which also explains why nice girls choose “bad boys.” Guys find a girl they want “just the way she is” thinking she’ll never change because he too expects to stay young forever. Problems arise because girls change to women, mothers and then grandmothers. No longer seeing the girl they want, guys divorce and remarry someone closer to the original model. Like Hugh Hefner said at 80, he always (and only) liked 18-year-olds. Likewise, women divorce men because their mates continually resist being remodeled into someone they never intended to be. Signed GKR Dear GKR: There’s a lot of truth in what you say. However, I was never a Hugh Hefner fan, and the fact that he only liked 18-year-olds makes me a little sick. Your letter points out something very important to me: All of us need to put more thought into mate selection. “Will you still love me when I’m 64?” Let’s hear from those who made good choices! OB Dear Old Bag: My dad lives with us. He’s hard of hearing and won’t wear his hearing aids. I have teenage children whom he criticizes frequently (in their presence). He passes gas whenever he feels like it and thinks nothing of it. The kids are embarrassed to bring their friends around because they never know what he will do. He’s been known to criticize their friends, too. I wish we’d insisted on assisted living before he came to live with us, but now it would be like kicking him out. What now? Signed, MR Dear MR: This is a sticky situation! I don’t typically advise couples to take in parents because it rarely works out. If your dad has a nice private room with a TV and comfy chairs, I suggest you tell him that when the kids have company over, he needs to stay in his quarters. Also, instruct your kids to smother him with kindness. You need to do something to arouse kindness in him. If this doesn’t work, take him shopping around at assisted living facilities under the guise that he should have a plan in case it doesn’t work out living with you. Hopefully, he’ll get the hint. Good luck! OB

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

Dear Old Bag: It’s vacation time and I’m not a happy camper. I got lucky last year because of the pandemic, but now that things have opened up my husband is planning a vacation. My husband is a different guy when he gets behind that wheel. God forbid if you need a bathroom stop. “You can go when we get gas!” he says. I have to pack lunches, which we eat while driving! Don’t even suggest stopping to see a landmark. You’d think we’re on some emergency drive to get someplace in a hurry. I’m at my wit’s end. Vacations are meant to be a time of happiness, relaxation, laughing and seeing the sights. Help! Signed, KL Dear KL: I have a few suggestions: 1. Refuse to go, and make sure to tell him why. 2. Say you’ll only go if you can drive and stop whenever the spirit moves you. 3. Tell him you’re going on separate vacations from now on. 4. Buy him a book on bullying. 5. If all else fails, maybe you should consider trading him in? (Tongue in cheek.) OB ■

ASK THE OLD BAG

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK Send your questions to the Old Bag in care of the BEACON, or email LagmanCreswick@Gmail.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

As the world spins: Vertigo is a very real affliction By Elaine Marze

here’s one good thing that comes from being afflicted with some ailment as you age. That is, when you recover you have a greater appreciation of what others have gone through. For example, I just survived a week of vertigo! Those who’ve never had vertigo may ho-hum and skip to the next article. But those who have might pause to say a thank-you prayer that they don’t have it at the present time and read on, comparing their experience. The best way I can describe vertigo is somewhat similar to an earthquake. Your body may be immobile, but the earth is moving all around you. It’s an other-worldly sort of feeling that can be caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), usually triggered by specific changes in your head’s

position, according to Mayo Clinic. Friends who knew what I was going through advised me to lie on the floor close to the potty until it went away. They also told me not to lie down flat—stay in a recliner, plan on crawling everywhere and not to move my head.

four-wheeler for 15 minutes or so—until the world slowed enough to crawl back inside the house. Being perfectly still was the only thing that kept me from face-planting on the floor. I tried sitting at my laptop to work but every time I glanced down at the keyboard the

FRIENDS WHO KNEW WHAT I WAS GOING THROUGH ADVISED ME TO LIE ON THE FLOOR CLOSE TO THE POTTY UNTIL IT WENT AWAY. THEY ALSO TOLD ME TO LIE DOWN FLAT, STAY IN A RECLINER, PLAN ON CRAWLING EVERYWHERE AND NOT TO MOVE MY HEAD. Just walking was a challenge. I ran into walls so many times I lost count. Moving suddenly brought on spinning like being on a fast merry-go-round pushed by a sadist. I tried to walk to the mailbox one day and ended up clinging to our

world spun out of orbit again and left me disoriented and nauseated. Generally, vertigo isn’t something you need to see your doctor about unless you experience any recurrent, sudden, severe, or prolonged and unexplained diz-

ziness or vertigo. Thank God and Meclizine (an antihistamine used to prevent and treat motion sickness) that instead of running face first into walls, I’m just barely glancing off them. Several former vertigo sufferers said their doctors had worked on their “crystals,” but that’s another story. Until vertigo, folks don’t think about how often they move their head. If and when friends or family members tell you they have vertigo, show your love by offering to help them with everyday tasks such as showering, getting on the toilet or searching for food in the fridge. It’s an experience I will never forget and hope to never repeat. If you ever feel vertigo coming on, quickly pad your walls and floor because you will be coming in contact with both. ■

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DEAR PHARMACIST

What switches on the twitch?

o you ever get a little twitch near your eye, or on your ankle or calf? How about your finger or near your elbow? Almost everyone gets the occasional twitch you feel for a microsecond and then it goes away. First of all, this is normal. Muscle twitches are almost always benign issues and are not based on serious neurological disorders. If you’ve ever had an eyelid twitch for three days straight, you know it’s more annoying than anything else. The medical term for this is called “benign fasciculation.” Here are some of the most common causes for muscle twitching: • Hypercalcemia. This means you have excess calcium in your blood, which causes your muscles to contract and twitch. This could be the result of excessive calcium supplementation, overdoing vitamin D or magnesium supplements, or from elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH). In contrast, a deficiency of calcium will often feel like a cramp, not a twitch. • Hyperventilating. When you breathe very fast, you hyperventilate. This occurs during a panic attack or while exercising very hard, and could trigger twitching, too. Hyperventilating can also occur as a side effect of certain medications, as well as with asthma or emphysema. • Caffeine. Too much coffee will do it! It causes the production of catecholamines in your nervous system—think dopamine and adrenaline—which causes your skin to flutter and twitch like crazy, especially if you’re sensitive. • Medications for ADHD or antidepressants. Some medica-

DEAR PHARMACIST

tions excite the nervous system and trigger the twitch. Usually a dosage reduction or discontinuation of the medication is necessary to stop this twitch. • Nicotine. If you smoke tobacco, you’re apt to occasionally twitch due to the stimulant you’re smoking. • B12 deficiency. You can take a blood test to determine B12 levels. If they’re low, just take a supplement. A B12 deficiency can also lead to high homocysteine levels. • Hyperhomocysteinemia. If you have constant, never-ending twitching, have your blood levels checked for homocysteine. If they’re high, you might need to take B12. • Anxiety. This twitching can become very pronounced in bed as you’re trying to sleep, but can’t. Anxiety twitching has to do with stress and stops while you’re sleeping. It shouldn’t recur each night unless you’re constantly stressed and dealing with insomnia. • Pinched nerve in the spine. A gentle chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist may be able to help tease this one out. • Exercising. Occasional muscle twitches may occur after a lot of physical activity or working out. These are frequently felt in the forearms, calves, thighs, stomach and back. If you have muscle twitches that won’t go away after a few days, see your doctor to discover what’s really going on. ■

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

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he human body possesses a wondrous inborn capacity to rebuild and heal itself when given the appropriate tools. With every breath, trillions of cells work assiduously in maintaining the body’s natural balance. Our cells miraculously heal or replace themselves to keep our bodies functioning at optimal levels. But they require our mindful assistance. For eons, various cultures have relied on medicinal plants such as healing herbs, dating back to 3000 B.C. However, when we abuse our earth suit by eating dead, manufactured foods, we become ill and our cells can be weakened, damaged or even destroyed.

WHY DIET MATTERS After my wife’s bladder surgery, the surgeon entered the waiting room and declared, “She’s the healthiest 73-year-old I’ve encountered!” According to him, Sandi’s surgery wouldn’t have been nearly as successful if not for her plant-based diet, regular exercise and mindful self-maintenance. In fact, a patient’s diet can affect their overall ability to heal. Collagen synthesis—an essential component of wound healing—requires a diet of unrefined carbs, clean animal or plant proteins, zinc and a cornucopia of plant-based vitamins in order to work and heal properly. According to Verywellhealth.com,

“If you’ve had surgery, the food you eat can make a great impact on your recovery and on how quickly your wound heals. Eating the right foods can prevent complications such as constipation and high blood glucose, and provide the necessary building blocks of protein needed to heal quickly.” Cells—life’s building blocks— need fuel to survive and thrive. Cells create tissues, bolster the immune system and convert nutrients into energy. Our miraculous body intelligence then sends signals and transports those nutrients to where they need to go. For all living organisms, food is energetic cellular fuel. “Understanding the influence of food on cells could offer a better way to design diets,” said Randy J. Seeley, director of the Cincinnati Diabetes Center at the University of Cincinnati. Cells operate at their best when fed a variety of clean plant nutrients. That’s why on the days we don’t eat a balanced, plant-centered diet or eat lots of processed foods, we can feel sluggish, short-tempered, light-headed and/or struggle to concentrate. High-fiber foods also play a major role in preventing constipation, a common surgery complication especially when opioids are involved. Constipation can increase pain and the chances of returning to the hospital during recovery. Avoid constipating foods like dairy

HEALTH & WELLNESS

IF YOU’VE HAD SURGERY, THE FOOD YOU EAT CAN MAKE A GREAT IMPACT ON YOUR RECOVERY AND ON HOW QUICKLY YOUR WOUND HEALS. (milk, cheese), red meat, sweets and dehydrated foods (except prunes). However, some surgeries require avoiding fiber, so check with a medical authority first. Dehydration causes an electrolyte imbalance and can decrease the oxygenation needed in organ tissues to promote natural healing. Drink several glasses of water per day to meet your hydration needs, and incorporate a variety of water-rich fruits, vegetables and dairy products in your diet.

HEALTHY FOODS AND SUPPLEMENTS Plan healthy, balanced meals and snacks that include the right amount of clean protein, dairy, seafood (not fried), fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fiber. Choose vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C such as strawberries, apples, avocados, citrus, raspberries and spinach. Foods with beta-carotene or vitamin A promote healthy scar tissue. Vitamin C helps make collagen, which is essential to wound healing and forming new tissue. Vitamin E or aloe vera may be used on the skin once the wound has healed and

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new skin has formed. Anecdotal reports claim vitamin E speeds up wound healing and improves the cosmetic outcome of burns and other wounds. (Note: oral vitamin E may increase the risk of bleeding.) Zinc stimulates wound healing. B-complex vitamins, including B1 (thiamine) and B5 (pantothenic acid), may aid wound healing and skin health. Bromelain, a blood thinner, has reduced post-surgical swelling, bruising, healing time and pain in some studies. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may help heal wounds by encouraging the repair of connective tissue in the body. Both can increase the risk of bleeding, especially with blood thinners. If you have asthma or diabetes, ask your doctor before taking glucosamine. Some third-party-inspected nutritional supplements may help wounds heal. However, if you’re having surgery, don’t take herbs or supplements without medical supervision, as they can negatively interfere with many pharmaceutical drugs. Without the use of appropriate materials, a building will collapse. In the same way, when we feed our cells food diminished by processing, we, too, weaken our body’s miraculous mechanisms. Let’s take better care of these earth suits our souls inhabit during our short journey on this planet, starting with the food we consume. ■

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LAUGHING MATTERS

LAUGHING MATTERS THE AMAZING PIG

Submitted by Lee Bowerman The salesman interrupted his own spiel and asked the farmer about his three-legged pig. The farmer explained that the pig had saved the whole family’s life by breaking down the door and pushing the baby’s crib out in the yard and woke up the rest the family to save them from a fire. “That doesn’t explain why it only has three legs,” the salesman said. The farmer explained, “You wouldn’t butcher an amazing pig like that all at once!”

COLORADO COWBOY

Submitted by Arthur Collins A Colorado cowboy walks into a local bar, orders three mugs of Coors and sits in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finishes them, he comes back to the bar and orders

three more. The bartender approaches and says, “You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it. It would taste better if you bought one at a time.” The cowboy replies, “Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Australia, the other is in Ireland, and I’m here in Colorado. When we all left home, we promised that we’d drink this way to remember the days we were able to drink together. So, I drink one for each of my brothers and one for myself.” The bartender admits that this is a nice custom, and leaves it at that. The cowboy becomes a regular in the bar, and always drinks the same way. He orders three mugs and drinks them in turn. One day, he comes in and orders only two mugs. All the regulars take notice and fall silent. When he comes back to the bar for the second round, the bartender says, “I

don’t want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss.” The cowboy looks puzzled for a moment, but then it dawns on him and he laughs. “Oh, no, no, everybody’s just fine,” he said. “It’s just that my wife had us join the local church and I had to quit drinking. Hasn’t affected my brothers though.”

YOU GOTTA BE DREAMING

Submitted by John Neal After she woke up, a woman told her husband, “I dreamt last night that you gave me a pearl necklace. What do you think it means?” “You’ll know tonight,” he replied. That evening, her husband gave her a package. Delighted, she opened it to find…a book entitled, “The Meaning of Dreams.”

IT’S WHAT WE EAT

Submitted by Darla Hatfield The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than the

British or Americans. On the other hand, the French eat a lot of fat and also suffer fewer heart attacks than the British or Americans. The Japanese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than the British or Americans. The Italians drink excessive amounts of red wine and also suffer fewer heart attacks than the British or Americans. Conclusion: Eat and drink what you like. It’s speaking English that kills you.

TWO HILLBILLIES

Submitted by Lee Bowerman Two hillbillies were being interviewed for their commercial driver’s license. The tester asked, “What would you do if you were coming down a long hill with a narrow bridge at the bottom, and there was another truck coming down the hill on the other side?” The hillbilly said, “The first thing I would do is wake up Leroy because

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LAUGHING MATTERS he ain’t never seen a wreck like we’re about to have!”

TAX AUDIT

Submitted by Susan Bower The IRS decides to audit Grandpa, summoning him to the IRS oﬃce. The auditor wasn’t surprised when Grandpa showed up with his attorney. The auditor says, “Well, sir, you have an extravagant lifestyle and no full-time employment. Your explanation is that you win money gambling. I’m not sure the IRS finds that believable.” “I’m a great gambler and I can prove it,” Grandpa says. “How about a demonstration?” The auditor thinks for a moment and says, “Okay. Go ahead.” Grandpa says, “I’ll bet you $1,000 that I can bite my own eye.” The auditor thinks a moment and says, “It’s a bet.” Grandpa removes his glass eye and bites it. The auditor’s jaw drops. Grandpa says, “Now, I’ll bet you $2,000 that I can bite my other eye.” Now the auditor can tell Grandpa isn’t blind, so he takes the bet. Grandpa removes his dentures and bites his good eye. The stunned auditor now realizes he has wagered and lost $3,000, with Grandpa’s attorney as a witness. He starts to get nervous. “Want to go double or nothing?” Grandpa asks. “I’ll bet you $6,000 that I can stand on one side of your desk, pee into that wastebasket on

the other side, and never get a drop anywhere in between.” The auditor, twice burned, is cautious now, but he looks carefully and decides there’s no way this old guy could possibly manage that stunt, so he agrees again. Grandpa stands beside the desk and unzips his pants, but although he strains mightily, he can’t make the stream reach the wastebasket on the other side, so he pretty much urinates all over the auditor’s desk. The auditor leaps with joy, realizing that he has just turned a major loss into a huge win. But Grandpa’s own attorney moans and puts his head in his hands. “Are you okay?” the auditor asks. “Not really,” says the attorney. “This morning, when Grandpa told me he’d been summoned for an audit, he bet me $25,000 that he could come in here and piss all over your desk and that you’d be happy about it.” 2580 US Hwy 6&50 • Grand Junction 970-263-4433 blackcarriagefurniture.com

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PET PAGE

Extreme heat advisory for pets

6 ways to protect your pets from dangerous conditions

ith searing temperatures bearing down on Western Colorado, I’m issuing an extreme heat advisory for our pets. Remember, your pet doesn’t have the ability to regulate body temperature effectively to withstand extreme heat. They don’t have the same cool-down mechanisms humans have (like sweating). They rely primarily on panting (and vasodilation to a lesser extent), which isn’t as effective and doesn’t work as quickly as a good sweat. While there are many products to aid in keeping your pet cool, like cooling beds and water fountains, the safest thing is to keep them indoors. Here are some other things to keep in mind to protect your pets from these dangerous conditions:

1. Don’t leave pets in your car. Let’s get this obvious warning out of the way. Don’t leave your pets in a car, even with the windows cracked, even in the shade, and even if it’s “just for a few minutes.” Unless you can safely leave the air conditioner blasting, the risk of heat stroke—even death— is extremely high. Within just two minutes on an 80-degree morning, a car can heat up over 14 degrees and can quickly reach fatal temperatures. 2. Avoid leaving your pet outdoors during the hottest hours of the day. There is no hard-andfast rule for what temperature is too hot for your pet, but I’d agree that 90 degrees is the upper limit for your pet to be outside for prolonged periods. Since we’re

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easily hitting that by mid-morning, pets should have an indoor option to escape the heat. (Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that plastic igloo or wooden doghouse will do the trick—it can get hotter inside those than outside if it is not properly vented and insulated.) 3. Keep them out of the sun. If your pet must stay outside during the day, ensure there is adequate shade. Think about how the sun moves across the sky. Even when it is at its peak, make sure your pet has shady places to escape the sun’s rays. 4. Make sure there is abundant water and that it isn’t in direct sunlight where it will heat up and scald your pet’s mouth. Consider filling a kiddie pool with water each morning to help cool your dog off and provide drinking water all day. 5. Time your walks later in the evening. If you and your pet have a walking routine, beware of hot pavement that can damage the pads of their feet. Try placing your hand on the pavement to see if you can comfortably hold it there for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them, too. Until the sun sets, you both have an excuse to skip the exercise and go through a drive-thru for ice cream instead. 6. Purchase pet-friendly sunscreen. Many of us visit the

groomer to get our pets a cooling haircut. (My pets are especially fond of “the lion” and “the naked mole rat” because they have no self-awareness.) While this may seem helpful, it can also be dangerous if the new fur-style exposes their skin to sunburn. If your pet spends any length of time outside during the day with short fur or exposed skin (white short-haired dogs often have susceptible skin right around their nose, for example), sunscreen is essential. Make sure to purchase sunscreen that is safe for pets, as ingredients like zinc oxide, which are found in human sunscreen can be toxic if your pet licks himself (and he inevitably will). For more advice about how to keep your pet safe this summer and how to exercise your pet without going out into this miserable heat, reach out to the pet experts at Roice-Hurst Humane Society. Call the Grand Junction shelter at 4347337, or our new location in Delta at 874-1078. ■

THE PET PERSPECTIVE BY ANNA STOUT

Anna Stout is CEO of Roice-Hurst Humane Society in Grand Junction and Delta. Learn more at www.rhhumanesociety.org

20 | PET PAGE | JULY 2021 |

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he Colorado Liquid Arts, a collective that includes the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE), the Colorado Brewers Guild (CBG), the Colorado Cider Guild and the Colorado Distillers Guild, is proud to announce the launch of the Liquid Arts Passport. This statewide digital passport allows consumers to enjoy discounted beverages, tastings, merchandise and other offers from Colorado breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries. “As [COVID] restrictions loosen, I can’t think of a better way to explore the state of Colorado than by experiencing our incredible collection of Liquid Arts,” said Shawnee Adelson, executive director of the Colorado Brewers Guild. Passport holders can choose from 5- or 90-day passes from four scenic regions: Denver & Cities of

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the Rockies, Mountains and Mesas, Pikes Peak Wonders and Rockies Playground. With discounts valued up to $300, you can experience what the Colorado Liquid Arts have to offer paired with mountain backdrops, city skylines and Colorado sunshine. Funds raised from the Liquid Arts Passport benefit the four nonprofit trade organizations that launched the effort, which are committed to advocacy, promotion, research and education for the beer, wine, cider and spirit industries across the state. “The Liquid Arts Passport Program offers the unique opportunity to support these small businesses all while supporting the nonprofits dedicated to their industries,” said CAVE Executive Director Cassidee Shull. Five- and 90-day passes can be purchased at taste.coliquidarts.org. Passes will be delivered via text and email, no app download needed. ■

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JOINT PAIN IS NOT NORMAL!

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ALIVE & DIGGING

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ur high desert sun is intense. While warm season crops like tomatoes, peppers, corn and squash can handle full sun, many of our favorites enjoy a bit of shade. Creating more robust and diverse garden ecosystems with varying degrees of light, moisture and warmth results in a slew of benefits. You might discover your greens are more tender, certain flowers look more vibrant, or that you don’t have to water as much.

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In a forest, trees of varying heights reach their leaves up toward the sun. Shrubs and wildflowers are everywhere, and beneath them lie grasses, shorter flowers and ferns. They’re cool in the shade, though specks of sunlight beam down. Beneath the smallest plants, pine cones and decomposing leaves cover the forest floor, blanketing a layer of dark brown, moist soil. No one’s tending to the forest except Mother Nature. But in this diverse ecosystem, each layer compliments the others. As you cultivate your garden, think about its layers. Is mulch blanketing your soil to help retain moisture and provide habitat for earthworms? Are you growing tall flowers beside your bed of greens? Add vertical space to your garden to mimic the layers of a forest. Sunflowers and corn can cast shade on shorter plants to protect them from our hot afternoon sun. A wall of trellised cucumbers or squash can act similarly. Seed buckwheat with carrots to create a shady canopy for the carrots to germinate under. Leafy greens will turn bitter and bolt quickly in the hot summer sun, so planting them in a spot with some afternoon shade will make for more tender greens. A little bit of shade for broccoli, cabbage and

cauliflower will help to slow flowering and encourage tighter heads. If you’re not planting this month, add mulch or a layer of grass clippings. Or fill in gaps in your garden with lettuce seed. Maybe add nasturtium to your squash patch if you haven’t already. Other vertical plants include perennial vines, trees and shrubs; annual blooms of sunflowers, love lies bleeding, cleome and cosmos; corn, pole beans and climbing cucumbers. These create shade for the herbs, vegetables and creatures below.

LAWN CARE Lawns, like all living plants, sequester carbon from the atmosphere and pull water into underground watersheds. But they also take hefty watering. Maintaining a lawn in the high desert requires lots of inputs, especially if you’re aiming for a golf course-style lawn: a low-cut, weed-

ALIVE & DIGGING

IT’S TIME TO EXPAND OUR PERCEPTION OF WHAT A BEAUTIFUL LAWN LOOKS LIKE, AND HOW WE CAN TEND TO THEM MORE SUSTAINABLY. free monoculture of green grass. It’s time to expand our perception of what a beautiful lawn looks like, and how we can tend to them more sustainably. By incorporating or allowing other greenery into your lawn like dandelions, clover, alfalfa and mints, you’re facilitating more biodiversity and beneficial natural cycles in your space. Diversity lessens or eliminates the perceived need to use chemical herbicides, which seep into the water cycle we all rely on. Keeping your lawn a few inches longer by cutting no more than

a third of the total grass height tremendously lowers the amount of water needed to keep it green. By watering for longer periods of time and less often (only a few days a week) your lawn grows deeper, healthier roots. You can also leave clippings on the lawn to recycle nutrients back to the roots or spread a thin layer of compost on your lawn each year. Consider expanding the border around your lawn for growing food, or drought-tolerant perennials like lavender and cacti. Or, turn it into a xeriscape or rock garden! ■

ALIVE & DIGGING

BY PAIGE SLAUGHTER Send your questions to Paige in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at Paige@FruitionStudio.com

SUMMER GARDEN CHECKLIST ❑ Hydrocooling your greens makes them crisper and longer-lasting. Harvest lettuce in the morning and soak in cold water before putting it in the fridge. ❑ Harvest broccoli crowns while they’re still tightly in bud, before florets begin to open up and lose flavor. You can also harvest the lower leaves of broccoli and cabbage plants, slice them into strips and simmer in saltwater to enjoy as a midsummer dish. ❑ Cut basil at the main stem instead of pinching off leaves, just above a leaf pair rather than leaving a stub. Keep your basil in a small vase of water in your kitchen or set it out to dry. ❑ Check for squash bugs and their eggs regularly on the underside of squash leaves and along leaf stems. ❑ Sow your next succession of cilantro, green onions, lettuce and other greens.

❑ Thin your carrots and beets to make room for the others to grow larger. ❑ Sow root vegetables for fall harvest. ❑ Harvest garlic once the tips of the leaves have turned yellow and lower leaves brown. Use a garden fork or shovel to dig up garlic from beneath, rather than pulling on the stems. Brush dirt off of the bulbs—don’t get them wet. Keep the stems on and hang your garlic to dry for 3-4 weeks in a well-ventilated room or in a dry, shady spot outside. ❑ Weeds give us insight into our gardens. Clover indicates a low level of nitrogen. Compacted soils invite grasses, whose strong central taproots and wiry stems are attempting to aerate soil. Before cursing weeds, identify them, check their roots, and see what you can learn about your little backyard ecosystem.

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

BEACON SENIOR NEWS TURNING 65 OR NEW TO MEDICARE?

If you have Medicare questions, I can help Looking for better Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans? Now is the right time to review your current Medicare coverage—and maybe strengthen it. Let’s make sure you have the benefits you really want in 2021. Sometimes the help you need is finding the right answers to your questions and sometimes it’s finding the right plan for your needs. At Humana, it’s always about putting you first.

Call a licensed Humana sales agent

Patti Zapf 970-301-8752 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. pzapf@humana.com Fb.me/pattizapfhumana www.humana.com/pzapf

Applicable to Humana Gold Plus HMO H0028-025-002. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., seven days a week. 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) 。 Y0040_GHHHXDHEN21_C

24 | JULY 2021 |

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The

Summer of Love By Randal C. Hill

n the now-fabled summer of 1967, San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury neighborhood temporarily morphed into a community of societal dropouts, college students, teenage runaways, vagrants and hustlers. Often clad in Army surplus and thrift-store outfits, many had come to share a collective spirit of togetherness and love. Oh yes. And plenty of sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll, as well. The Haight (as it was nicknamed) became a social Eden. The epicenter of cool. A cultural Utopia. Those who took up residence there tended to be disillusioned teens and young adults who often railed against a corrupt government, rampant consumerism and an overseas war that was claiming 100 lives each week. Armed with compassion, idealism and lots and lots of flowers, up to 100,000 folks staked a claim in the Bay Area that summer. For a while, money seemed to no longer be much of a relevant issue. An overall attitude of sharing and community had blossomed among many young San Franciscans by the mid-1960s. This led to, among other things, the establishment of a Free Store (nobody paid for donated food and clothing) and a Free Clinic (staffed by kind-hearted

volunteer doctors and nurses). In January 1967, the “Human Be-In” saw 30,000 people gather at Golden Gate Park to witness ex-Harvard professor Timothy Leary first offer his now-legendary command of “Turn on, tune in, drop out” amid Hindu chants and throbbing rock music. June brought the Monterey Pop Festival (dubbed the Monterey Pot Festival by some). John Phillips of the Mamas and Papas had created pal Scott McKenzie’s million-selling hit “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair).” This, of course, only added to the allure of a must-visit destination for those eager to answer the Bay Area’s clarion call. But the days of this Edenic world were numbered. The tsunami of young people heading for San Francisco alarmed the police force there, many of whom were upset and determined to keep the invading army of motley vagabonds from overwhelming their beautiful coastal city. Irritated residents proclaimed that the area simply couldn’t adequately absorb such an influx of people, arguing that infrastructure and resources would become strained to the breaking point. Finally, much of the “coolness” factor evaporated when bus

BEACON SENIOR NEWS tours of the Haight brought gawking tourists, each of whom was handed a printout that explained such hippie slang words as “teenybopper,” “weed” and “trip.” The original “peace and love” crowd eventually fled the Haight when the neighborhood began to show the effects of overcrowding, such as unsanitary conditions and crime. As much as anything else, though, it was an influx of hard

drugs that hastened the area’s fall. But the primary elements of the Summer of Love have never died. James Rado and Gerome Ragni, two young men who witnessed the Human Be-In, felt so inspired by what they experienced that they created the groundbreaking musical drama “Hair.” Its success guaranteed that the unique spirit of 1967, at least, would endure far beyond that turbulent summer. ■

Are you feeding your feathered friends the right seed? At Mesa Feed Mart, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect feed for your birds.

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What do you remember from the Summer of Love? Spring break in San Francisco My boyfriend and I spent our Spring Break from college in San Francisco. We slept on a friend’s kitchen floor. Walking in Haight-Ashbury with thousands of others was exciting. Everyone was happy. I saw booths for free food, places to sleep and used clothes. When we got back to Denver, we discovered The Family Dog, a night club where many of the bands we’d heard of in California came to play. I got to see The Doors, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Canned Heat and Quicksilver Messenger Service, among others. You could stand right in front of the stage before all these groups became household names. Pretty awesome! - Jennifer Kivilin Cutting school and playing gigs What a year that was! My hometown of Sacramento is only 90 miles from San Francisco. I was in a band at the time, and we all cut school one day—even our drummer, whose father was the Secretary of State. We spent the day at Stinson Beach. Later, we ended up at the Fillmore (the original).

We saw John Lee Hooker, Jimmy Reed and Jefferson Airplane. Price? $2.50. The week prior, many university students descended on Sacramento to protest cuts in education. Our band’s manager thought he’d capitalize on this and rented out Governor’s Hall at the fairgrounds for a three-day concert. He hired several of the seminal rock groups from San Francisco: The Grateful Dead, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Country Joe and the Fish, along with bands in his stable. Two weeks later, we went to our meeting with our manager, only to find the secretary clearing out his office. Apparently, he’d absconded with our gig money and left the state. Three months later, I joined the Army. - Robert Velasquez Serving honorably As an Army Nurse, I spent the Summer of Love taking care of wounded young men at an Army Hospital in Vietnam. The San Francisco hippies called me “Baby Killer.” - DH WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Back to business

New stores open in downtown Montrose amid pandemic

Proudly Serving Montrose and Surrounding Communities Since 1996

By Mavis Bennett

HOW CAN I HELP? Volunteer Your Time Make a Financial Donation

Food Distribution Hours: 9:30am to 12:30pm 49 North 1st St. | Montrose, CO | 970-240-8385

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

It's Your Life.

eanna and Jordan Johnson were traveling to craft shows and selling their handmade jewelry when the pandemic hit. As more and more shows were canceled, the Montrose couple decided to spend a month in Arizona selling their wares—until those shows were canceled, too. “We went back and forth on whether to open a business during the pandemic, but we needed those holiday sales,” said Leanna. They took a chance and opened Mosaic, a boutique shop at 21 N. Cascade Ave., just in time for the the holiday season. Mosaic carries vintage clothing and Colorado-made accessories, pottery, bath and body products, home décor and more. “We were also happy to have a place for our maker friends to sell their goods,” said Leanna. “Our whole concept is to have a creative community [and offer] interactive experiences for people.”

Customers can participate in creative workshops, choose a project off the DIY menu, create their own custom jewelry at the jewelry bar or design their own potted plants at the succulent bar. Leanna handpicks each piece of vintage clothing. Montrose resident Caroline Carter likes the variety of apparel from coats to dresses— even a ’50s-era fur stole. “I really enjoy the vintage clothes,” said Carter, 82. “The couches in the seating areas were comfortable and gave customers a sense of ease.” Mosaic supports local artists by hosting a First Friday reception and displaying their work throughout the month.

TEXAS-THEMED TACOS AND TECHNICAL DRINKS Since the pandemic started, two eateries moved into the storefront on East Main Street that once belonged to Maggie’s Books and The Vine Market & Bistro.

We're Here To Help You Live It! At The Homestead at Montrose, our approach to care grows out of respect for the human spirit, and the belief that the right to dignity doesn’t diminish with age. Compassion, empathy and personal attention are at the core of how we help every Homestead resident feel cherished, and at home. Call today to arrange a visit. We look forward to meeting you.

Studios - 1BR - 2 BR Apartment Homes 1819 Pavilion Drive Montrose CO 81401 970-964-3400 homesteadatmontrose.org Volunteers of America is a national, nonprofit, faith-based organization.

26 | JULY 2021 |

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At Mosaic in Montrose, customers can participate in creative workshops or choose a project off the DIY menu.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

FASHIONS FOR ALL

The Double Barrel Taco Company, 345 E. Main St., is a casual, walk-up-to-order café with a swath of original taco selections that reflect the Texas roots of its owners Ray and Lindsey Blanchard. They also opened Main & Vine next door, a more upscale restaurant and bar that serves crafty comfort food and technical cocktails. Some of the taco shop’s customer favorites include smoked brisket and creamy slaw, and TxAF with smoked sausage, jalapeno poppers, charro beans, onion crumble and queso fresco. At Main & Vine, diners can mix and match from a menu divided into starches, veggies and proteins. Diners can also order from the Sourdough Slider menu, accompanied by a cucumber jalapeno martini or a cenote reposado margarita. The weekend brunch menu is equally eclectic with items such as brisket and waffles and eggs benedicts to please every palate.

Mauve, 324 E. Main St., is named for owner Lizz Martensen’s favorite color. The long-time Montrose resident bubbled with enthusiasm as she described her three-month old venture, which sells reasonably priced women’s clothing and accessories for size small to 3XL. “I’m a plus-size person,” said Martensen. “I wanted to offer a store in Montrose where women of all sizes could shop with their friends.” That mindset is why customer Patty Southard shops there. “I shop at Mauve because they have body positivity for real women,” she said. “Trendy, yet classic styles make it fun for any age.” Mauve started as an online store, which operated for six years until Martensen was ready to open a brick-and-mortar store once the pandemic wound down. “We were really excited to open the store and see people live and in person,” she said. The store also features a crafting room for events and workshops, and what Martensen calls The Collective—six spaces that can be leased by individuals or small business owners. “We call them popups because they can rent a space for a month or longer,” said Martensen. Currently, The Collective space is leased by a boutique bakery and used book store, in addition to stores selling baby items, hand-painted leggings, local CBD and handmade jewelry. ■ Left: Mauve owner Lizz Martensen

July 22nd - 25th Confluence park • delta,co

For more information contact the Delta Chamber of Commerce at 970-874-8616

NO ONE IS TOO SMALL TO MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO O U R C O U N T RY.

We all remember John F. Kennedy’s words, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country”. Yet, often we forget the meaning. We forget each of us is needed to help keep democracy alive. To ensure our freedom, let’s take pride in our country. Display the flag. Register to vote. Teach our children the value of freedom. And, most of all remember the people who died for our freedom.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY Chalmer and Marge Swain

DELTA 874-9988

HOTCHKISS 872-3151

CEDAREDGE 856-3232

PAONIA 527-3836

www.taylorfuneralservice.com WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 |

TRAVEL

St. Mary’s Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs are celebrating our volunteers all month long! FGP volunteers have been serving Mesa & Delta Counties since 1973, and SCP volunteers have been serving Mesa County since 1990!

By Xxxxx

xxxxx ■

Even though this past year+ has been a challenge, our volunteers have persevered. Senior Companion volunteers have served over 16,700 hours and have driven over 58,000 miles while helping homebound seniors remain independent and engaged. Most of our Foster Grandparent volunteers were unable to serve in the classrom during the pandemic, but have furthered their own learning with over 6,500 hours of educational and fun training. Those volunteers who were able to return to the classroom gave over 7,000 hours of tutoring and mentoring time to at-risk children in our community. If you’re 55+, and you’re interested in helping our community (and maybe getting paid for it*)

Call the Foster Grandparent or Senior Companion Programs Now! (970) 298-9092 www.WesternSlopeSeniorVolunteers.org *Fixed-Income volunteers may qualify for a tax-free stipend.

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Call 970-243-8829, or mail form (along with check, if applicable) to:

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Up your jet lag IQ By Carrie Luger Slayback

y husband, Paul, and I arrived in midtown Manhattan on a bright morning. We’d just disembarked a redeye flight from California. Both of us were unable to sleep, and Paul spent the five-hour flight cursing the torturous airline seats. Having finally arrived at our destination, we found a hotel on Lexington, blocks from my sister’s place. The manager, observing bedraggled Californians stumble toward his desk, opened a room early. Paul sank into bed. I remained in a lobby chair to wait for my sister. My eyes were glued to the brass-trimmed glass lobby door, and then…oblivion. I instantly tumbled from excited

anticipation to coma-like sleep. In public. When I opened my eyes, I found my sis and her husband at my side. They’d entered the lobby, spotted me and tiptoed over. “Hope I wasn’t snoring,” I mumbled. The problem was that traveling east, my circadian rhythms became arrhythmic. Is this a serious malady? You bet. A scholarly article from the American College of Chest Physicians confirmed that the effects of sleep interruption are overwhelmingly negative: reduced attention, alteration in mood, and diminished memory and executive function. Between 1 and 3 percent of all motor vehicle crashes nationwide are

TRAVEL

THE EFFECTS OF SLEEP INTERRUPTION ARE OVERWHELMINGLY NEGATIVE: REDUCED ATTENTION, ALTERATION IN MOOD, AND DIMINISHED MEMORY AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTION. attributed to driver sleepiness. Additionally, loss of one night’s sleep increases anxiety, depression and paranoia. Business travelers need to be concerned about reduced emotional intelligence and “its relation to critical thinking,” according to the article. My husband’s nap probably saved our relationship, as sleep-deprived travelers score significantly lower on empathy, interpersonal relationships, impulse control and behavioral coping. Sleepy people are more likely to view neutral words as negative and forget the positive. Sleep deprivation also affects innovative thinking, and the sleep-deprived demonstrate significantly higher risk-taking behaviors. Besides that, the sleepless traveler feels lousy—airplane cabin pressure causes bloat, gastrointestinal problems, dehydration and drowsiness. It’s a miserable way to start a day. Sleep deprivation also affects

blood pressure, insulin production and normal appetite regulation. The metabolization of some medications can also be affected. WebMD says that the loss of 90 minutes of sleep in one night reduces daytime alertness by one-third. Enough. Let’s take control and minimize all that distress. Circadian rhythm greatly influences one’s quantity and quality of sleep. The brain’s pineal gland responds to patterns of daylight and dark by regulating melatonin, promoting sleep in darkness and reducing it for daytime alertness. Retrain your rhythms by exposing yourself to bright natural light during waking hours. At bedtime in your new time zone, eliminate brightly lit electronics. Pack a dim night light in order to find the bathroom without switching on lights. To further reset one’s circadian rhythm, a bedtime dose of 5 mg of Melatonin has been proven effective. ■

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How to up your jet lag • Pack ahead and sleep normal amounts the night before the trip. Research warns against starting from home with a sleep deficit. Some travelers adopt their destination’s bed/ wake times pre-trip. • Limit “sleep-robbers” like alcohol and caffeine in flight, and stay hydrated. Limit carbonated drinks, which can add to gassy feelings. • Some hotels provide “sleep floors” away from the street with double-paned windows, blackout curtains, quiet no-squeak hinges and rules against partying.

• Adopt destination meal times immediately upon arrival. • Exercisers have a 61 percent performance advantage over couch potatoes upon arrival at their destination.

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• Naps improve reaction time, memory, attention, processing speed and reasoning—even for naps that last only 15-20 minutes. • Be nice to airline and hotel personnel. When delays drive you to wild hostility, you need them most. Ask sweetly for a room far away from the all-night disco bar.

Sky Ute Casino Resort 14324 Hwy 172 North Ignacio, Colorado 81137 Phone: 970.563.7777 | www.skyutecasino.com

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 | TRAVEL |

FAITH

Rosemont

S Townsend Ave

BAPTIST CHURCH

Turning Montrose Around

E Niagara Rd

RosemontBaptist.org

FAMILY

FELLOWSHIP

Bible Study (all ages) 9:30 9:15 am Worship Service 10:45 am Worship Service

Sunday

The truth about America’s heritage By Vic Stinemetze

COMMUNITY 1598 E Niagara Rd Montrose, CO 81401 Office: 970.249.4887

Experience God's loveloveinina atraditional setting. Experience God's traditional setting. Sunday study: 9:00 a.m. Sunday worship: 10:15 a.m.

s we celebrate the Fourth of July, let’s take a moment to consider the rich heritage that is ours in America, and the truth of this country’s origin. Last year, I wrote about how a French aristocrat and historian named Alexis de Tocqueville came to America and toured it in 1831 to study the American Penal System. However, his real interest was America herself. Afterward, he went home and wrote this:

First Baptist Church of Grand Junction

“I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers and it was not there. I sought for 720 Grand Avenue the greatness and genius of Amer970-242-5645 ica in her fertile fields and boundVisit our website: fbcgj.org less forests, and it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her rich mines and her vast world commerce, but it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution, but it was not there either. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the 515 S. Dr. Hillcrest secret Dr. of her genius and power. 515 S. Hillcrest Montrose, CO 81401 Montrose, CO 81401 America is great because she is 970-249-4319good! And if America ever ceases to 970-249-4319 be good, she will cease to be great.”

Experience God's love in a traditional setting.

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

Where Passion ere Passion for God and for God and for People meet…. mpassion Compassion for People meet….

COME GROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! We are… Family-oriented amily-oriented Inspirational Relational Sacred space The place for you

United Methodist Church

9:00 am Contemporary Praise Service 11:00 am Traditional Service with Choir

Live stream services at fumcgj.org First United Methodist Church | 5th St. & White Ave. (downtown) | 242-4850 | www.fumcgj.org

30 | FAITH | JULY 2021 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

De Tocqueville understood that America has a rich heritage of goodness that made and continues to make her great. If she loses that foundation, she will cease to be great.

Yes, our forefathers had flaws. But they founded a nation based on godly principles. They understood that the ideals of freedom and democracy were worth fighting and giving their lives for. Throughout our great history, Americans have fought to preserve this priceless heritage of freedom. Many have given their lives for that cause. My father fought in World War II. Fortunately, he didn’t have to lose his life, but he understood that leaving his young wife and newborn son was a necessity for our nation to endure. Many others have gone off to war knowing their lives could be cut short, but they considered it a worthy cause. We are so blessed by their sacrifice. Another man gave his life for us as well. Jesus chose to come to earth as a human being, knowing the ultimate goal was to sacrifice his life for you and me. He willingly endured the cruelest death by hanging on a cross—the just penalty for each of our sins. As we believe by faith in who he is—the savior who died and overcame death to ascend into heaven—our faith is credited to us as righteousness by God and we’re given eternal life. We can’t earn it. We can’t even fully understand it. We can’t gain it in any other way or through any other man. Like those who gave their lives in battle to purchase the freedom we so cherish in our nation, Jesus gave his life to purchase our freedom as citizens of heaven. ■

OUR FOREFATHERS FOUNDED A NATION BASED ON GODLY PRINCIPLES. THEY UNDERSTOOD THAT THE IDEALS OF FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY WERE WORTH FIGHTING AND GIVING THEIR LIVES FOR.

Open to Athletes 50+ August 23-29, 2021 · Grand Junction, CO

2021 Registration Infor mation Early Bird e Registration Deadlin

August 6

ugust 13 Registration closes A mes a Visit gjpr.org/seniorg 66 Call us at 970-254-38

Basketball Billiards Bocce Bowling Cards Cornhole Golf Horseshoes Run/Walk (5K) Pickleball

Swimming Table Tennis Track & Field Disc Golf

NEW ACTIVITY! Ax Throwing

Many options from foam to regular axes

SENIOR GAMES INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS MONDAY • AUGUST 23 Bocce

8:30 am Hawthorne Park 400 Gunnison Ave.

Billiards - Men’s 8 Ball 9:00 am Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Ave.

Horseshoes

9:00 pm Canyon View Park (northeast side) 730 24 Road

Bowling - Singles

1:00 pm Orchard Mesa Lanes 295 27 Road $5.00 per person

Table Tennis

2:00 pm Bookcliff Activity Center 540½ 29¼ Road

Disc Golf - Random Draw Doubles 5:30 pm Watson Island 729 Struthers Ave.

TUESDAY • AUGUST 24 5K Walk / Run

8:30 am Canyon View Park Meet at the Baseball Shelter (east side) 730 24 Road

Cornhole

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

n 24-hour emergency response system n Flexible care options to meet your current and future needs n Temporary assisted stays n Customized wellness program helps you “Stay Fit for Life!”

9:00 am Canyon View Park Liberty Cap Softball Field 730 24 Road

Ax Throwing

12:30 pm Axeology 2487 Industrial Boulevard. (behind Sportman’s Warehouse)

Golf - 2-Person Scramble Tee times begin at 3:00 pm Lincoln Park Golf Course 1340 Gunnison Ave. $9.00 per person, Carts $9.00 per person

9:00 am Lincoln Park Golf Course 800 Mantlo Circle

2:00 pm Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Ave.

THURSDAY • AUGUST 26 7:00 am - Warm-up 7:30 am - 500m Freestyle 8:15 am - All other events Orchard Mesa Pool 2736 Unaweep Ave.

32 | SENIOR GAMES | JULY 2021 |

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7:00 am - Discus/Shot put 7:30 am - Field events 8:15 am - 1600m Walk 8:45 am - All other track events Lincoln Park Track 1340 Gunnison Ave.

Golf - Chip & Putt

Swimming

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.

Track & Field

7:30 am Lincoln Park Golf Course 800 Mantlo Circle

Cards - Cribbage 3203 N. 15th Street • TheFountainsGJ.org

FRIDAY • AUGUST 27

Golf - Longest Drive

1:00 pm Bookcliff Activity Center 540½ 29¼ Road

The Commons • 243-3333 The Fountains • 243-8800

Dinner and live music 4:30 pm, Ale House, 2531 N. 12th St $12.00 per participant, $15.00 per guest

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 25

Basketball - Free Throw, Hot Shot & 3-Point

625 27 1/2 Road • TheCommonsGJ.org

BANQUET

Billiards - Men’s 9 Ball 9:00 am Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Ave.

HEALTH FAIR 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Lincoln Park Barn

Pinochle

1:00 pm Senior Recreation Center 550 Ouray Ave.

SATURDAY • AUGUST 28 & SUNDAY • AUGUST 29 Pickleball

8:30 am Double Elimination Lincoln Park Courts Saturday - Doubles Sunday - Mixed Doubles

Prior to participating, please check in at the Grand Junction Parks & Recreation office, 1340 Gunnison Ave. from 8 am12 pm or 1-5 pm on August 20 or August 23-27

SENIOR GAMES

GENERAL INFORMATION REGISTRATION OVERVIEW Early bird registration deadline is August 6, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Registration closes August 13, 2021 at 5:00 pm. No registrations will be accepted after this time. All team members must submit an individual entry form and fee. Partners/teammates must be indicated on the entry form where required. The Western Colorado Senior Games are open to out-of-state residents.

AGE REQUIREMENTS Participants should register according to their age on August 23, 2021. • 50-54 • 55-59

• 60-64 • 65-69

• 70-74 • 75-79

• 80-84 • 85-89

• 90-94 • 95-99

• 100+

Some events compete in 10 year group increments. Events will be conducted by age group except when it is necessary to combine for competition.

RECRUIT A NEW ATHLETE PROGRAM Participants are encouraged to involve new athletes in the 20th annual Western Colorado Senior Games. As a reward, the recruiting athlete will receive $5.00 off their registration fee if the new athlete’s registration form and the recruiting athlete’s registration form are submitted together. An athlete may take a maximum of $5.00 off their registration fees.

CANCELLATION / POSTPONEMENTS / REFUNDS In the event of inclement weather or unusual and extenuating circumstances, game officials reserve the right to change the format of competition, postpone or cancel events. Refunds will not be given due to weather. Refunds will only be granted if requested prior to August 6, 2021. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER THAT DATE.

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CHECK-IN AND EVENT SCHEDULING Participants are encouraged to check in at the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation office, 1340 Gunnison Ave., prior to participation. Check in from 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Friday, August 20, or Monday, August 23-Friday, August 27

AWARDS INFORMATION Bring your own medal with you to events. Star pins will be presented to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place finishers in each category at the event venue. Competition must take place to determine an award winner. If there is only one individual entered into an age group, that athlete must enter and complete the event in order to receive a pin. That athlete will be placed in the closest age category, but not against, those athletes.

HOTEL INFORMATION Hotels offering special event rates will be posted at gjpr.org/seniorgames. You may also call Visit Grand Junction at 1-800-962-2547 or go to www. visitgrandjunction.com for more information. To ensure availability, we suggest you make your reservations early.

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SENIOR GAMES

ENTRY FORM - 2021 Western Colorado Senior Games

Gender Male

Complete all information on this form. Please print or type. Form also available online at gjpr.org/seniorgames

Age Group (as of 8/23/2021)

LAST NAME______________________________________________ FIRST NAME _________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY __________________________________________________ STATE ___________________ ZIP CODE _________________

EMERGENCY CONTACT ________________________________________________________PHONE ___________________________

Registration closes on August 13, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Registrations received after this date will be returned.

Registration fee includes all events and a T-shirt (except where listed below) EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT - (If registration is received on or before August 6, 2021 at 5:00 pm - T-Shirt guaranteed)

$34.00

REGISTRATION FEE (If registration is received after August 6, 2021 at 5:00 pm - No T-Shirt)

$39.00

T-SHIRT FEES Size XXL +$3.00 / Size XXXL +$5.00

$3.00 $5.00

RECRUIT A NEW ATHLETE DISCOUNT New Athlete Name _______________________________________ (New athlete’s registration form and recruiting athlete’s form must be turned in together)

($5.00)

BANQUET FEE

$12.00

Size__________

BRING A GUEST TO THE BANQUET - # of Guests__________

$15.00 per guest $

BOWLING FEE

$5.00

GOLF: 2 PERSON SCRAMBLE

$9.00

GOLF CART

$9.00

Become a “FRIEND OF THE WESTERN COLORADO SENIOR GAMES” by contributing an extra amount that will help enhance this year’s games! Make checks payable to Grand Junction Parks and Recreation

$ TOTAL

Affidavit: I will not hold the City of Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department or any cosponsoring agency, responsible for injury incurred while participating in any program. I understand that I will indemnify the City and its officers and employees from any injury claims. I am aware that participating in any sport/activity can be a dangerous activity involving many risks of injury, including crippling injury or death. I AUTHORIZE, ALLOW AND RELEASE the unlimited publication, broadcast, transmission, re-transmission and/or other form of reproduction of any and all audio, video and photographic images without payment of compensation or royalties. SIGNATURE: _______________________________________ DATE: __________________ Each participant should consult his/her doctor in regard to practice, preparation and competition in this event or any similar physical activity.

Please review your entry form to make sure you did the following: Completed the general information entirely and marked all the events in which you are planning to participate. For doubles events, a partner was included if necessary. Signed and dated the liability and press release waiver. Enclosed the total payment, including additional event fees, banquet fees and discounts. Reminded team partners, as applicable, to submit their entry form and fee. Check made payable to Grand Junction Parks and Recreation. Mailed your entry form and payment in time for the Early Bird Discount on August 6, 2021.

Grand Junction Parks and Recreation 1340 Gunnison Ave. Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-254-3866

90-94

55-59

75-79

95-99

60-64

80-84

100+

65-69

85-89

Small

Medium

X-Large

XX-Large (+$3.00)

Large

XXX-Large (+$5.00)

EVENTS NOT COMPETED BY AGE DIVISION:

5K RUN/WALK

BILLIARDS

Run

Walk

AX THROWING Ax Throwing

BASKETBALL SHOOTING Free Throw Hot Shot 3-Point Discus

Men’s 8-Ball

BOCCE BALL (Partners will be drawn) Bocce Ball

BOWLING ($5.00 extra fee) CARDS

Shotput

FIELD EVENTS (Starting at 7:30 am) Softball Slugfest Standing Long Jump Football Throw Soccer Kick

GOLF

Cribbage Cornhole

DISC GOLF (RANDOM DRAW DOUBLES) Disc Golf

GOLF: 2-PERSON SCRAMBLE

($9.00 extra fee) Doubles - Partner: �� Individual (Partner will be drawn at the event) Golf Cart ($9.00 Extra Fee)

(Competed in 10-year age groups)

Putt

(Competed in 10-year age groups) Horseshoes

SWIMMING

(Order of Events) 500m Freestyle 50m Backstroke 50m Breaststroke 50m Freestyle 25m Breaststroke 100m Freestyle 25m Backstroke 25m Freestyle

TRACK EVENTS

(Order of Events, Starting at 8:45 am)) 1600m Walk 50m Dash 100m Dash 200m Dash 400m Dash 800m Run 400m Walk 800m Walk

Pinochle

CORNHOLE

Longest Drive Chip

Men’s 9-Ball

Singles (Average:________)

HORSESHOES

LIABILITY AND PRESS RELEASE WAIVER

70-74

AGE DIVISION EVENTS:

FIELD EVENTS (Starting at 7:00 am) $

50-54

T-Shirt Size

PHONE _________________________EMAIL ADDRESS ___________________________________DATE OF BIRTH ________________

EVENT & SOCIAL REGISTRATION FEES

Female

PICKLEBALL

(The highest level partner determines play level for team) Men’s Doubles 3.0 Men’s Doubles 3.5 Men’s Doubles 4.0 Men’s Doubles 4.5+ Women’s Doubles 3.0 Women’s Doubles 3.5 Women’s Doubles 4.0 Women’s Doubles 4.5+ Mixed Doubles 3.0 Mixed Doubles 3.5 Mixed Doubles 4.0 Mixed Doubles 4.5+ Doubles Partner Name: �� Mixed Doubles Partner Name: ��

TABLE TENNIS Table tennis

How did you hear about the Western Colorado Senior Games? BEACON

Received entry form directly

From a past participant

Activity Guide

Misc. Promotion (website, promo cards, poster etc.)

Other: ��

TALKING DIGITAL

6 tips to keep you safe from internet bad guys I

IF YOU RECEIVE URGENT BAD NEWS IN AN EMAIL OR PHONE CALL, OR A SCARY ALERT COMES UP ON YOUR DEVICE, DON’T PANIC. YOUR FIRST AND SAFEST ASSUMPTION IS THAT THE MESSAGE IS FAKE

n the early days of computers, bad guys generally took the form of either hackers or viruses. However, today there are numerous ways bad characters use technology to extort money, steal information, or wreak havoc on your online life. The following tips, while certainly not an extensive list, are practical guidelines to help you avoid the many clever technology security threats. TIP 1: Don’t fear technology. Security is one of the most popular topics in the tech world, but sometimes the hype surpasses the actual threat. You’ve likely read articles about viruses spreading to cell phones, or hackers accessing a major company’s client data. More often than not, these are self-serving articles produced by computer security companies to promote their services. Don’t fear using computers because a fairly minuscule number of people are impacted by technology security threats. TIP 2: Don’t panic. The digital world’s “bad guys” take advantage of you when you’re vulnerable. If you receive urgent bad news in an email or phone call, or a scary alert comes up on your device, don’t panic. Your first and safest assumption is that the message is fake. Hang up and reboot your phone, or close the email and restart your computer. Wherever you receive the message, don’t be afraid to end the interaction and walk away. Come back after you’ve cooled down. Call an expert and have the message verified. TIP 3: Never respond directly to the threat. If you receive a recorded message in your voicemail, a scary email, or a text alert on your phone saying you’re in trouble, don’t call the number provided in the warning. Your bank, the IRS, and even your

friend (who likely has not been kidnapped in Cameroon) all have direct phone numbers. TIP 4: No legitimate entity knows whether you have a technology problem. If you receive a call, text message or email from Microsoft, Dell, Apple or the government saying your device security has been compromised, it’s ALWAYS a scam. Bad guys often trick caller ID into indicating they’re calling from Microsoft or Amazon. They almost always use fake nondescript Eastern accents and background noise in an attempt to convince potential victims that they’re calling from an official call center. TIP 5: Don’t ever let a stranger remote control your device. Occasionally, tech companies will request to control your device remotely in order to troubleshoot an issue. If you call Quicken or Dell for assistance, you can probably trust the person on the other end to remotely control your computer to get you through the problem. However, if a stranger contacts you and tells you they need to scan your computer for problems, hang up and walk away. Once a bad player has control of your computer, they can download system files, change passwords and even tamper with your bank accounts. TIP 6: Avoid obscure free apps. This is especially true with Windows and Android devices, but even

iPhone and Apple computers are occasionally vulnerable to apps that pretend to be a tool, but actually harvest information or spread junk. Many legitimate companies produce free apps, but they’re generally tied to an obvious source of revenue. They may recommend you buy the full version of the app, subscribe to a premium service, or

are connected to a retail channel such as Amazon. If you installed a free game with no obvious form of revenue, the app is at best gathering data from your device and at worst spreading malware (viruses and other unwanted programs) to your device that will create bigger problems later. ■

TALKING DIGITAL BY ADAM COCHRAN

Send your technology questions to Adam in care of the BEACON, or email him directly at AdamC@TalkingDigital.org

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MONEY & SCAMS

A rather expensive “free” gift card By Arthur Vidro

while supplies last!” The phrase “limited quantity available” and the mention of magazines should trigger warning bells screaming “scam.” Also, the certificate was from an unidentified company. However, I dialed the number and began the odyssey. I got through quickly to a woman who congratulated me on this “free” $50 gift card and recited a scripted spiel so rapidly I had trouble understanding half her words, including the name of her firm. Upon prompting, I provided my name and address. She then asked which magazines I wanted. “Magazines?” I replied dimly. “I

SCAM ALERT!

t seemed like a pleasant surprise. A shipment of supplies I had ordered also contained a certificate saying “Congratulations! Your order entitles you to a $50 Walmart Gift Card! Call TollFree NOW to get complete details.” This was followed by an 800 phone number. Sounded good. Too bad that before dialing, I didn’t turn the certificate over. Its reverse side read: “$50 Walmart Gift Card! Call now to claim a $50 Walmart gift card. Limited quantity available. Plus, you are entitled to receive up to three issues of your favorite magazines, absolutely Risk-FREE. Call today

THE PHRASE “LIMITED QUANTITY AVAILABLE” AND THE MENTION OF MAGAZINES SHOULD TRIGGER WARNING BELLS SCREAMING “SCAM.” just want this free gift card.” Turns out to get this “free” gift card, one must order three magazine subscriptions. But don’t worry, one can cancel the subscriptions at any time for a full refund. “But if there’s a refund,” I murmured, “that

is a great place to be

means I’ll be paying for it first.” “Yes, so which magazines do you want?” She ran through a list of some of the nation’s most popular magazines. “There’s no way I would read any of those magazines. Is that really a

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MONEY & SCAMS condition for getting this free gift card?” “We have some others to choose from.” She recited a second list of publications. “Do you like any of those?” “The magazines I’m truly interested in I already subscribe to, and they weren’t on your lists.” She dismissed my concern by promoting the cancel-after-subscribing factor so that I could get this “free” card. By now the situation was smelling pretty bad. She insisted I choose magazines, yet the cost of these subscriptions had never been mentioned. Chances were they would cost much more than $50. So I parried. “Tell you what,” I offered. “How about we forget the magazines, and to compensate you can reduce the value of the gift card? Let it be for less than $50.” “We can’t do that. We have only $50 gift cards available.” She artfully turned the conversation back to

BY NOW THE SITUATION WAS SMELLING PRETTY BAD. SHE INSISTED I CHOOSE MAGAZINES, YET THE COST OF THESE SUBSCRIPTIONS HAD NEVER BEEN MENTIONED. my selecting some magazines. It was clear that subscribing to magazines I don’t read (and which I could probably get cheaper by ordering directly from the publisher) was a requirement for getting the gift card. I had no intention of subscribing, but I wanted to gauge the ethics of the unknown entity I had called. I was curious if they would give me their address. Scam operations tend not to do so. “Gee,” I fibbed, “your offer sounds wonderful, but at the end of this call you’ll expect me to pay for magazines. So let me tell you that I don’t use credit cards. Would you allow me to write a check and mail it to you? If so, what’s your address?” Though I do have a credit card, I seldom give it out to strangers

over the telephone. The woman said with delight that, of course, they would accept a check. She’d be happy right then and there to have me read the bank account number to her so she could get my subscription money straight from my checking account. “No,” I stated plainly. “I will not provide you that number over the telephone. I was asking if you would allow me to mail in a check,

and then you could cash the check when you receive it.” The answer was no, that was not acceptable, such an arrangement would disqualify me from the offer. “I will not give you access to a credit card,” I stated calmly, “and I will not give you access to my bank account. Now about that ‘free’ gift card...” Click. She hung up on me. So, if you receive in the mail an unexpected certificate urging you to claim a $50 gift card, throw it away. Nobody wants to give you their wealth. Unfortunately, “free” gift cards are too expensive to accept. ■

We asked readers What’s the wildest scam you’ve encountered? Too smart for Shelly! A few months back I received an email from a woman named Shelly Fisher who claimed to be the president of the Colorado Women’s Leadership Summit. She said she was reaching out to me after viewing my LinkedIn profile to invite me to be a part of the group. At first, I was excited to get connected with other working women professionals as I’d just moved here a few years ago. However, when I went to Google the information (it even had an address listed in Denver!) I stumbled upon a Q&A forum where countless people had been contacted by “Shelly” about made-up leadership summits in

multiple states. While I’m not sure what the purpose of the scam is, (to collect emails, maybe?) the summits that Shelly’s supposedly putting on and the groups she’s a leader of do not seem to exist. My coworker received the same email a few days later. From what I could gather, if you signed up for the conference or to talk at the summit, you’re asked to register on an unsecure website for an undisclosed amount, that some users discovered after the fact to amount to hundreds to thousands of dollars! As one user wrote, “Targeting smart women in business seems like the last approach they should be taking.” -Lauren Berg

Got a wild scam story?

Email it to Beacon@PendantPublishing.coM WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 | MONEY & SCAMS |

BEACON GUIDE FEATURE

Want more 2021

BEACON Guides to give away?

WE DELIVER!

Yes, please deliver: 25 50 75 Other �� copies of the 2021 BEACON Guide Mesa County Edition Montrose & Delta Edition

Opening wallets and hearts

Giving Clubs make big community impact with little effort By Jan Weeks

uring the pandemic, charitable giving may have been low on the list for people who were out of work, confined to homes, or worried about getting sick and keeping their families safe. One thing the pandemic didn’t do was deter area giving clubs from donating to organizations relying on generosity. The concept behind the Giving Club and the Guys’ Giving Club in Grand Junction, and the Montrose Giving Club is simple. Members meet once every three months and each commits to writing a $100 check to go into a collection. Members then nominate charities to receive the pot and a vote is taken. Thus, four times a year, different nonprofits receive a substantial gift of money. The Grand Junction Giving Club started seven years ago with only six members. Now it sits at 190 women. Member Judy Vanderleest said Illene Roggensack inspired the women-only group after reading an article on a similar club in Basalt. She emailed five ladies, asking, “Think we can make this happen?”

A SIMPLE WAY OF GIVING Despite the craziness of the pandemic, members continued to meet by Zoom in May, August and November 2020 and in February of 2021. Even if members weren’t on Zoom, they could nominate a charity to receive the quarterly pot. Nominations go into a hat and three are randomly chosen. The person who nominated each charity has two minutes to convince the rest to vote for her choice, and the majority rules. Nonprofits don’t need to account for the money they’re given. The only stipulation for the Grand Junction Giving Club is that the money benefits Mesa County residents. The most recent recipient was Summit Care West, a nonprofit dedicated to providing quality home health care to those in need. Foster Alumni Mentors, The House, and Catholic Outreach have also received around $20,000 in the past. According to Phoebe Benziger, The Giving Club of Montrose was patterned after the Grand Junction Giving Club, and held its first meeting in February 2017. Benziger

company name �� contact name

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delivery address phone

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Send your request to:

Stacey@BeaconSeniorNews.com 970-243-8829 38 | BEACON GUIDE FEATURE | JULY 2021 |

Grand Junction Giving Club members present nearly $19,000 to the club’s May 3 awardee, SummitWest Care. WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

BEACON GUIDE FEATURE

is one of the club’s five founding members, along with Sue Hansen, Julee Wolverton, Kristy Barrett and Sarah Fishering. In just four years, membership has grown to over 200 participants. The group meets quarterly on the first Monday of February, May, August and November at The Bridges Golf Club. However, the upcoming August meeting will be held on the second Monday due to a scheduling conflict at the club. Each woman pays a $10 hospitality fee in addition to a $100 pledge. “In four years, we’ve donated almost $225,000 and will hit a quarter of a million dollars in donations this year,” said Benziger

NO COOKIES TO DELIVER Men in Grand Junction and Montrose knew a good thing when they saw it. Thus began the Guys’ Giving Club in Grand Junction and Giving Guys in Montrose. According to Grand Junction club member Steve Doyle, “We are a bunch of giving guys who like pizza and beer, and we try to keep it very simple: no tickets to sell, no cookies to deliver.” The Guys’ Giving Club has been around for six years. They’ve awarded a quarter of a million dollars to 28 worthy organizations in the Grand Valley. The most recent beneficiary was the District 51 Foundation, which promotes academic growth, achievement, and outreach for students, as well as professional learning grants for teachers. The only requirement for awardees is that they must have

501(c) nonprofit status. The elected organization sends each member a tax receipt for the donation. “Our membership peaked at about 110 two years ago and now hovers around 80 members,” said Doyle. Surprisingly, the pandemic had a positive effect on donations, Doyle found. Since the group wasn’t using the quarterly $25 per member hospitality fee during Zoom meetings, that amount was added to the winning nonprofit’s coffers.

veloping and growing. This is thanks in part to the generous members who believe that giving is better than receiving.

GIVING FEELS GOOD

Montrose Giving Club Next meeting: Monday, August 9, 5:30 p.m. at The Bridges Golf Club givingclubofmontrose@gmail.com Call 209-9598

Three years in, membership for Giving Guys of Montrose currently hovers around 70. Members like Ian Atha would like to see that number grow. Clubs are always looking for new members. In addition to socializing and forming friendships, another benefit of belonging to giving clubs is finding out about all the superb, altruistic organizations in the area that are able to keep programs de-

The Giving Club Next meeting: Monday, August 2, 6 p.m. at SpringHill Suites www.gjgivingclub.org Call 260-6140 Guys’ Giving Club Next meeting: Tuesday, August 3, 5:15 p.m. at SpringHill Suites guysgivingclub@gmail.com Call 917-363-3719 or 243-8829

Left: Steve Doyle and Frank Lindemann of Guys' Giving Club present a $10,000 check to Colorado Canyons Association. Right: The Giving Guys of Montrose present a $3,800 check to Lighthouse Ministries in 2019.

Open for Dine-In

Giving Guys Montrose Next meeting: July 2021 at Cobble Creek Club House givingguysclubmontrose@gmail. com Call 719-502-7813 ■

Montrose Giving Club women present a check for $14,800 to Girls on the Run. WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 | BEACON GUIDE FEATURE |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Lunch with Liberace By Karen White-Walker

hen I think of summer I think of sunshine, flowers, fruits, picnics and Liberace. I had the opportunity to have lunch with Mr. Showmanship himself—all because I personally wrote to him and asked if I could interview him. Simple as that. (I might have also mentioned that I wrote a popular weekly newspaper column read by millions. Or was it thousands? Maybe even hundreds. I never can rely on my memory these days!) The phone call came saying I would meet with him on Tuesday and have tickets to his show at Melody Fair in North Tonawanda, New York, on Saturday. Had I not been fortunate enough to have interviewed him before seeing him perform, I might have been in awe of the man—and I don't think it's healthy to be in awe of anybody. You're not yourself and they're cer-

40 | JULY 2021 |

tainly not themselves when you're standing there drooling like some starstruck teenybopper. A mother of four should have more dignity, I told myself. Besides, he's just a man and I'm just a woman. But from the rumors that were circulating about him back then, would I even be much of a distraction to him anyway? The Three Coins Restaurant on Niagara Falls Boulevard was hosting the private party for the superstar, his entourage and the press. I excitedly ran up the stairs to where the elegant reception was being held. The first one to greet me was Liberace's agent, who sure made me feel like I really belonged with the rich and famous. (I belonged all right, with my whole $2 and my lipstick stuffed inside my bra because I didn't own a purse to match my one and only knockout dress.) The banquet table was laden

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Karen White-Walker and Liberace before his concert at Melody Fair in North Tonawanda, New York. with foods that were foreign to me: escargot, caviar and other delicacies I washed down with champagne. The room was dimly lit so that when Liberace made his entrance in an all-white suit, all you really noticed were his diamond

studded fingers that glittered and sparkled as the reporters’ camera flashes ricocheted off the mammoth rocks. We were escorted to a corner table by a man who treated me like I was a contestant on that old ’50s

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

I MUST HAVE HAD THAT DEER-CAUGHTIN-THE-HEADLIGHTS LOOK BECAUSE TO EASE THE TENSION, LIBERACE LEANED OVER AND WHISPERED, "YOU MAY CALL ME LEE. ALL MY FRIENDS DO." game show “Beat the Clock.” “Okay, Kid, ya got three minutes to fire off your questions. Hit it!” I must have had that deercaught-in-the-headlights look because to ease the tension, Liberace leaned over and whispered, “You may call me Lee. All my friends do.” But it wasn't until he grabbed my hand that he pulled back in horror and gasped. “They’re naked!” he shrieked, referring to my bare-naked fingers that couldn't boast even one little ornament. “My wedding ring went down the drain,” I weakly explained. “Let's hope your marriage doesn't do the same,” he quipped. “I'm here to talk about you,” I reminded him while also wondering how I could tactfully ask why he dressed so flamboyantly when he performed. Forget tact! I hit the question head on. “You see, Karen,” he explained, “when I was first starting out and I had my own television show, I dressed conservatively and hardly anybody noticed me.” “I know the feeling,” I mumbled to myself, thinking of how during my baby-rearing days I dressed in stretch pants, sneakers without laces and a bargain basement special that read “The Hell With Housework. Let's Go Bowling!” Even back then I knew how it felt to be invisible. He continued. “It wasn't until I started winking at the audience and dressing differently that anybody noticed—and boy, did they ever notice! Soon my audience started getting all spiffed up for my shows, so I had to do them one better, really outdoing them, so to speak.” “I don't see how you can now

ever...” but I stopped myself, not wanting to continue with how I thought that he couldn't possibly get any more outrageous. “So you think I can't out-do myself?” he laughed and winked. “But Liberace...” “Lee, remember?” “I think your genius is about how you were a child prodigy, starting to play at 4 years old. You were trained in classical music, yet it seems like when you started putting personality into the piano keys, playing the popular tunes, you reached the masses.” “The critics think I compromised.” “And what do you think?” “Time’s up!” yelled the aggravating voice that had warned me about my allotted time for the interview. “See ya Saturday,” I called back to him, clutching the tickets that were given to me. The reserved, almost forlorn-looking man I had interviewed was not the same man who came out to perform. It's true that some people come alive on stage. It was evident that Lee was most comfortable in front of his adoring fans outfitted in white ermine from his head to his feet—and it was smack dab in the middle of summer! He immediately shed the coat that would have easily paid off my mortgage and put my four kids through college, but I harbored no jealousy. He drew the audience to him like the pull of gravity, and oh, the way he played! Such performers are seldom that gifted, but I'll always maintain that I sensed a little loneliness in him. I figure stardom must come at a very high price—a price most of us can't or don't want to afford. ■

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PREVENT THE WORST AND CALL FIRST!

ADULT PROTECTION HOTLINE: (970) 248-2888 Prevent abuse, neglect and exploitation of our at-risk adults

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Thrifting that makes a difference By Melanie Wiseman

mber Thorp is the ultimate optimist. Especially considering that by age 5, she had experienced at least two severe head traumas. As an adult, she has been trying to beat the odds and defy her intellectual disabilities. But that’s easier said than done, especially when many jobs are more dependent on speed than employees’ reliability. That changed six years ago when she was hired by Arc Colorado, an organization whose mission is to

generate funding to support advocacy programs for persons with intellectual disabilities, such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism and other forms of cognitive deficit. She was an ambassador employee for Arc in Denver before continuing her career at the Grand Junction thrift store at 2830 North Ave. Thorp felt adopted by the company and her fellow employees right away. She loves the fact that she can do just about everything at the store except be the manager.

Every accomplishment starts with the decision to

TRY!

Amber Thorp, center, and Arc CEO Lloyd Lewis, right, at the local store’s grand opening in February 2020.

SENIORS AGE 55 AND OLDER CAN SNAG EVEN BETTER DEALS EVERY TUESDAY WITH 50 PERCENT OFF EVERYTHING EXCEPT THE CURRENT WEEK’S MERCHANDISE. “I’m very popular wherever I go,” said Thorp. “I can’t help it.” According to Arc Thrift Stores CEO Lloyd Lewis, 66, Thorp is far more popular among her coworkers and customers than he is.

PATH AND OPPORTUNITY

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42 | JULY 2021 |

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When Lewis’ son, Kennedy, was born with Down syndrome in 2003, he left financial corporate America and threw himself into scientific research and advocacy. He joined the board of directors of Arc to learn more about the challenges adults with disabilities face so he could get a clearer picture of where his son was headed. “When I started to get to know adults with disabilities, I was surprised to see them lift everyone’s spirits, take pride in their work, be positive, generous, loving and kind,” said Lewis. “They are very inspirational, love their jobs, and have a zero turnover—the perfect employee.” Lewis’ experience in the business world and desire to make a difference led him to become CEO of Colorado Arc in 2005. Revenue from Arc’s 30 retail locations are

the primary source of funding for 15 Arc chapters, which support advocacy programs for persons with intellectual disabilities.

DISCOUNTS GALORE! Arc of Colorado processes millions of items each year, 95 percent which are donated. From clothing to furniture and housewares, Arc makes the thrill of finding quality one-of-a-kind items easy and enjoyable—especially for those on a budget. It cost Lewis just $1,500 to furnish his house using wares from Arc thrift stores. “Before I became CEO, I don’t think I’d ever been in a thrift store,” Lewis admitted. Seniors age 55 and older can snag even better deals every Tuesday with 50 percent off everything except the current week’s merchandise. Lewis leads the company with the philosophy that the more successful Arc is as a business, the more funds can be used to support its advocacy programs. Over 80 percent of the Grand Junction store’s income goes directly to supporting these programs. ■

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

You can’t always get what you want But you get what you need By Terri Kaiser

hat Rolling Stones song is really so apt to life, isn’t it? Sometimes I envy those who really don’t want much. Those who know there’s nothing sweeter than a day at home reading a book, a drive in the country, watching a movie, walking in the woods or around the block, or spending time with family over a meal or a birthday cake. Want can be a dangerous word. We all want, want, want and so many feel they’re not getting their share. That’s when trouble starts. Life can be tough when it takes you down a road you didn’t see coming or wasn’t according to plan. When I was a teenager, I wanted long blond hair, a good tan and a gorgeous singing voice. But, alas, my hair was mousy brown and my parents wouldn’t let me dye it. Every time I tried to tan I burned and gained a few more moles. And in eighth grade, I failed to make choir. My confidence was deeply shattered. As a young adult, I wanted healthy kids, good enough parenting skills that neither kid would embarrass me too much (come on, admit it), and a job that gave me a paycheck and a bit of satisfaction. I mistakenly thought that once the kids were gone, I’d be gloriously free to do whatever I wanted. And there was so much I thought I wanted. But guess what? Parenting never ends. Never. Thank heaven for that, for the most part. Now, I think simplicity is the key to satisfaction. (Somehow, I don’t think Mick Jagger and I are on the same wave-length here.) For one thing, I’ve learned that simplicity can be ever so sweet. The older I get, the more I savor

the moments to be still and take it all in. By this, I mean sitting on the porch and listening to the birds, watching the flowers grow or the snow accumulate, listening to music, reading a book, or watching a movie without the guilt for spending the time doing it. What is it you want in life? It doesn’t have to be those things your younger self thought you’d acquire or achieve. Life sends us on many paths, most of which we choose. We go through multiple chapters like a book, and in each life chapter you may find your wants and needs differing. What I thought I’d want at this point isn’t really all that important now. Instead, a conversation with a grandchild, a few laughs with a sibling, lunch with a parent, and time, sweet time, with my kids are what matters most. The Rolling Stones song ends with “You just might find, you get what you need.” It’s true if we stop to look for it. Sometimes what we truly want has been there all the while. We just need to peel back the layers to get there. ■

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MeSa County July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Thursday Night Concert Series The City of Fruita hosts a weekly concert series featuring rock, country, and other talented bands at its Civic Center Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the show! 7:30 p.m. | 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita | Free | 858-0360

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Market on Main

Downtown Grand Junction hosts its signature summertime event on Main Street featuring vendors, food, entertainment and fun! 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Main Street, Grand Junction | Free | www.downtowngj. org | 245-9697

July 2

Steps and Stories

Get in your steps while walking around Sherwood Park and share what you’ve been reading, listening to or binge-watching, hosted by Mesa County Libraries. 10-11 a.m. | 1301 E. Sherwood Dr., Grand Junction | 243-4442

there’s a food truck on site. 5-8 p.m. | 670 39 Road, Palisade | 261-0071

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Fruita Farmer’s Market

Come out to Fruita’s Reed Park for its weekly Saturday market! Peruse vegetable stands, artisanal crafts, and enjoy other local goodies. 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | 250 S. Elm St., Fruita | Free | 858-3894

July 3

Fruita Fireworks

Celebrate our country’s independence with fireworks launched from James M. Robb Colorado State Park in Fruita. Fireworks start just after dusk and can be seen most places throughout town. 595 Hwy 340, Fruita | Free | 8580360

July 4 Fourth of July Parade

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Food Truck Fridays

CALENDAR

Enjoy some of West Slope’s best mobile grub while enjoying live music. Go online for a list of locations, the full schedule and list of vendors. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | www.grandvalley foodtruckfridays.com | 261-8484

Wear your red, white and blue and celebrate America’s founding with Downtown Grand Junction’s Fourth of July Parade down Main Street!

10 a.m. | Main St., Grand Junction | Free | 245-9697

July 3 & 17

July 4

Grand Junction fireworks

Celebrate America’s birthday with a firework show over Lincoln Park. 9:45 p.m. | 1340 Gunnison Ave., Grand Junction | Free | 254-3866

July 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31

department and enjoy food, yard games, live entertainment and a movie. Bring chairs and wear warm clothes. Grill opens at 6 p.m. Movie starts at dusk. 6 p.m. | 16400 DS Road, Glade Park | Free | facebook.com/GladePark Movies

Cross Orchards Market

July 10 & 24

July 8

Find pure joy by playing with baby goats before and after a gentle hourlong yoga session at the Mesa County Fairgrounds. Bring a yoga mat and water. Preregistration is required. 8:30-10 a.m. | 2785 Hwy 50, Grand Junction | $20 | www.gjparksand rec.org | 254-3866

You’ll find farmers, artisans and food trucks at Cross Orchards every Wednesday and Saturday through October 9. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | 3073 F Road, Grand Junction | Free | mdarling@westco museum.org

Steve Hofstetter Stand-up

Goat Yoga

One of YouTube’s most popular comics comes to the Mesa Theater for a night of laughs with some of his unfiltered observations on life. 7-8:30 p.m. | 538 Main St., Grand Junction | $25-$50 | www.mesa theater.com | 773-1775

July 8

En Plein Air Watercolor Painting

Rachel Campbell Osborne, Mesa County Libraries’ Artist in Residence, hosts a watercolor painting workshop at the Central Library’s Discovery Garden. Supplies included. Register online in advance. 10-11:30 a.m. | 517 Chipeta Ave., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa countylibraries.org | 243-4442

July 11 Lindsey Stirling in concert

Premier violinist Lindsey Stirling performs her album “Artemis” at Las Colonias Amphitheater. Doors open at 6 p.m. 7-10 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | Tickets start $30 | http://bit.ly/2uJjzGo

July 9, 16, 23, 30

Sunset Saturdays

Movies Under the Stars

Sip wine and enjoy the sunset at Bookcliff Vineyards. If hungry,

Support Glade Park’s volunteer fire

“Absolutely awesome company!” Residential & Commercial Electric Services Install New or Custom Lighting Tank-less Water Heaters Childproof Outlets Ceiling Fans Whole House Surge Protectors

Emergency Lighting System Testing, Repair, and Replacement Lighting Control Systems Trouble Shooting Diagnostics & Repairs Remodels And Much, Much More!

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44 | CALENDAR | JULY 2021 |

~ Will Tovrea

Call Today for a Free Quote! WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

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Owner/Master Journeyman Electrician

EMERGENCY SERVICE

970-414-BUZZ 2

July 11

July 13

Roice-Hurst Humane Society hosts a $15 microchip clinic to help recover lost pets. Pets are seen by appointment only and space is limited. Call to schedule your appointment. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 362 28 Road, Grand Junction | $15 | 434-7337

Join Bryan Reed from Western Colorado Community College for a presentation on composting at the Mesa County Libraries Discovery Garden. Registration is required. 7-8:30 p.m. | 517 Chipeta Ave., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa countylibraries.org | 243-4442

Roice-Hurst Microchip Clinic

July 11

Local Love Community Market Support local businesses like Lily Purrl’s Kitchen and Anita’s Pantry and Produce and finish off with a beer at Monumental Beer Works. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | 2575 Hwy 6 & 50, Grand Junction | Free | 462-7411

July 13-17 Mesa County Fair

Enjoy Mesa County’s annual showcase of vendors, carnival attractions, and shows such as bull riding, chainsaw juggling and a monster truck show. Go online for the full schedule of events. 10 a.m. | 2785 US-50, Grand Junction | Free | www.mesa countyfair.com | 255-7107

Backyard Composting

July 14

Capella Memory Café

Caregivers and their loved ones with Alzheimer’s are invited to socialize with others in a safe and comfortable environment, complete with food, drinks and music. Call to RSVP in advance. 4:30-6 p.m. | 628 26 ½ Road, Grand Junction | www.cappellagrand junction.com | 822-7070

July 15

A Brief History of Ute Water

Learn about the history of the Ute Water Conservancy District from Andrea Lopez, External Affairs Manager, in Mesa County Libraries’ Central Library Community Room. Registration required. 12 p.m. | 443 N. Sixth St., Grand Junction | Free | www.mesacounty libraries.org | 243-4442

July 17

Acrylic Pour Flower Theme

No experience necessary for this creative way to play with paint and make abstract art at Confluence Studios. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | 634 Main St., Grand Junction | $40 | 314-2584

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BIG RESULTS! Advertise your upcoming event or fundraiser in our Calendar of Events.

Affordable rates for events of all sizes! Call 243-8829

July 18

CGA Women’s Golf Playing Clinic

Learn tips and make new friends at this clinic for intermediate golfers. Participants play nine holes at Chipeta Golf Course and come across instructors who provide tips and answer questions. Swing mechanics are not covered. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | 222 29 Road, Grand Junction | $70 non-CGA members | 303-366-4653

July 20

Music in the Grapevines

Two Rivers Winery presents local band Soul Habit’s funk rock dance music benefiting the Art Center of Western Colorado. Bring lawn chairs and sip on wine while enjoying the show! Gates open at 6 p.m. 7-9 p.m. | 2087 Broadway, Grand Junction | $15-$20 | www.artcenter guild.org | 243-7337

July 20

All About Joint Replacement

Community Hospital’s class helps you and your family understand what to expect during your total knee or hip replacement and how to return home and to an active life. Register in advance. 6 p.m. | 2351 G Road, Grand Junction | Free | www.local.aarp.org/ grand-junction-co/events | 2450484

July 29

For King & Country live

Enjoy a night of music under the stars with For King & Country’s summer nights tour at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. 7:30-10:30 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | Tickets start at $30 | https://smarturl.it/fKCGrand JunctionCO

July 30

Sawyer Brown in concert

Country music band Sawyer Brown performs live at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. 7:30-10 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | Tickets start at $25 | www.theampgj.com | 2635700 July 31 Garden Groove Concert Series: Boys of Summer This tribute band plays your favorite Eagles songs at Western Colorado Botanical Gardens. Proceeds benefit STRiVE. Purchase tickets at www.strivecolorado.org/ events. 7-9 p.m. | 655 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | $20 | 245-9030

July 31

Foreigner in concert

See Foreigner live at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. 8-10 p.m. | 925 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction | $57.50 | www. theampgj.com | 263-5700 ■

SEE MORE EVENTS AT: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

BOGO½ OFF Buy One / Get One

with purchase of 2 drinks

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TO GO 639-9562

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MeSa County American Association of University Women meets monthly. Call for location. 2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 261-2112 Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Grand Junction. Wednesdays & Fridays | 12:45 p.m. | 244-9989 Citizens’ Climate Lobby meets monthly via Zoom. Check Facebook for details and contact info. 250-4832 | grandjunction@citizen sclimatelobby.org | facebook.com/ CCLGJ Clifton Book Club meets virtually or in person to discuss “A Painted House” by John Grisham. Register online. 2nd Tuesday | 8-9 a.m. | www.mesacountylibraries.org Colorado Archaeological Society Grand Junction meets monthly. Call for location. 2nd Monday | 6:30-9 p.m. | 433-4312 | www.meetup.com/CAS -GJ/ events Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library. 3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 434-6936 Cribbage Lite meets at IHOP. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 201-7823

CLUBS

Chapter, meets monthly. 719-580-0948 Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981 in Grand Junction. All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. 2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 434-0868 Friendship Force meets at First Baptist Church in Grand Junction. 3rd Thursday | 6:15 p.m. | 214-536-2250 | www.ffwcolo.com Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road in Grand Junction. 2nd Thursday, 7 p.m. | 4th Thursday, 6:30 p.m. | grandjunctionrock club@gmail.com Giving Club meets quarterly at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. 1st Monday in February, May, August, November | 6 p.m. | 260-6140 | www.gjgivingclub.org Golden K Kiwanis meets at the Redlands Community Center. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | facebook. com/gjgoldenk

Cups Club meets at The Artful Cup in Grand Junction. Meet people through cards, games, talk and tea. Wednesdays | 2 p.m. | 257-2390

Grand Junction Brush & Palette Club meets at The Art Center, followed by a demonstration in various art mediums. 3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | www. gjbrushandpalette.org

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Two Rivers

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

meets at Warehouse 25sixty-five on 2565 American Way. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 260-8664

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

Knights of Columbus #1062 typically meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall in Grand Junction. 2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 261-1952

Grand Valley Pets Alive meets at Church of the Nativity in Grand Junction. This all-volunteer nonprofit works to reduce the homeless pet population through spay/neuter and trap-neuter-return. 3rd Wednesday | 4:30-6 p.m. | 462-7554 Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 6 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 1 p.m. | 245-8817 or 257-1549 Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands Methodist Church. 2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 245-8817 or 856-3632 Great Old Broads for Wilderness, Grand Junction Area Chapter, meets monthly. Call for details. 596-8510 Guys’ Giving Club meets quarterly at Springhill Suites in Grand Junction. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. 1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 243-8829 or 270-6184 Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction

Knitting Club meets at Community of Christ Church in Grand Junction. 4th Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 623-1455 Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. www.mesacountygenealogy.org Newcomers Club meets at First Christian Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 549-0440 | www.gjnewcomers.org Not Going Quietly meets at Center for Spiritual Living Grand Junction. This group creates a space of empowerment, community and wisdom for those aged 60 and older. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 433-7799 Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets twice monthly. Call for location. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7p.m.| 208-9228 Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques. Call 256-9580 River City Singles meet for activities throughout the month. Call for details, or attend the club’s weekly meetings at the Moose Lodge. Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 210-2390

SENIORS! SAVE HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS Each Year When You Trade In Your Car For A

Grand Valley Transit (GVT) Senior Pass

SENIOR PASSES

All passes May Be Obtained at:

Annual

Downtown Transfer Facility

West Transfer Facility

Mon-Sat 5:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

525 S. 6th Street

612 24½ Road

WHAT IS GVT DOING TO KEEP RIDERS SAFE? • Sanitizing buses twice daily • Riders are required to wear face coverings • Asking riders to social distance and spread • Providing hand sanitizer on all buses out on the bus Information about Paratransit Bus Service and eligibility can be found at gvt.mesacounty.us or by calling 970-256-7433

46 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | JULY 2021 |

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19500 $2250

Monthly

This Public Service Message paid for by: Learn more at OlderWiser.org

Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at the Bookcliff Country Club. Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 234-5030

#3981 meets at the Post Hall, 503 Florence Road, in Grand Junction. 1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 778-8242

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Saturday | 1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org

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

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

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

Sweet Adelines International, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, sings four-part barbershop harmony and rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 245-1837 | www.grandmesaacappella.com Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets weekly. Call for location. Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 361-1806 Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. | www.thunder mountaincameraclub.org Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Junction Masonic Center. Thursdays | 261-1670 Veterans Coffee Club meets weekly at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road, Grand Junction. Tuesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 257-3760 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

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

Question

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Jan Weeks

What musician or band would you see in concert that’s no longer performing? Brenda Ruppert - Grand Junction “Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and the Moody Blues. They were the iconic music of my generation. Oh, and Bob Marley.”

Drew Moore - Grand Junction “AC/DC because they’re rockin’ Australians. ‘Thunderstruck’ was my favorite song!”

Wheels West Car Club meets at the Moose Lodge in Grand Junction. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www.wheels westcarclub.org Yoga for Military Members at Western Region One Source. Free for military and their families. Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 257-3760 ■

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

Ride an Electric Mining Tram See LIVE Drilling, Mucking & more…

May 22nd to Septembr 5th, 2021 Tours Depart Hourly 10am to 4pm

FREE Gold Panning with Tour Purchase No Reservations Needed

Karen Fischer - Grand Junction “Eric Clapton. I paid $700 for third-row seats when they performed at the Pepsi Center. A bunch of attorneys in the front row lit up. I asked my friend what that smell was. ‘Pot!’ he answered.”

Tom Motz, MD - Grand Junction “Neil Diamond, because I saw him once, or big band leader Stan Kenton. Stan was my grandmother’s first cousin and used to visit the house. In fact, my sister took her first steps, literally, toddling over to Uncle Stan.”

MeSa County Apply for FEMA funeral assistance for COVID-related deaths If you lost a loved one to COVID, financial assistance is available for funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. To apply, contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 844-684-6333 weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Necessary information includes personal information of the deceased along with a death certificate and receipts for funeral expenses. Free webinars for veterans with Alzheimer’s The Alzheimer’s Association offers these free webinars for veterans living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia and their caregivers. Webinars are from 1-2:30 p.m. • July 6: Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body, or Tele-Geriatrics for Veterans • July 13: Legal and Financial Planning To register, call 800-272-3900 or register online at http://bit.ly/VACG-SeriesZOOM. Grand Junction class of 1951 celebrates 70th reunion Grand Junction High School class of 1951 celebrates its 70th class reunion on August 27, 2021 in Grand Junction. Come for a mixer

BEACON BITS

with classes 1950-1952 from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Grand Vista Hotel. For more information, call 242-6278 or 242-0888. Emergency Broadband Benefit covers internet bills for those eligible Older adults without reliable home internet and technology are often unable to participate in many online tools needed to access health and income supports, including telehealth services. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has authorized a new Emergency Broadband Benefit, which will provide a discount of $50 per month for eligible low-income households to cover internet bills as well as provide discounts on some devices. Find out if you are eligible and apply at www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit, or call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application. Roice-Hurst’s Animal Resource Center celebrates fifth anniversary Roice-Hurst Humane Society (RHHS) established the Animal Resource Center (ARC) in June 2016 to serve community pet owners with the aim of keeping pets in loving homes by strengthening the bonds between pets and their owners through behavior counseling and training classes. Since then, ARC has grown to include a pet

Western Slope author releases first novel In her new book, “In Wrath Remember Mercy: The Redemption of Torquil Dhu,” local author Aquila Dhu tackles the subject of PTSD during the Civil War. In this new adventure novel, action and human reaction combine with internal struggles for a young Confederate soldier, in a dual crisis of faith and struggle to overcome the effects of war. A long-time resident of the Western Slope, Dhu intertwined her life experiences and knowledge of the wilderness and farming, along with her extensive research into history, into the details of the story. Order the book at www.inwrathremembermercy.com.

48 | BEACON BITS | JULY 2021 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Bob Martin is artist of the month at Western Region One Source

Western Region One Source (WROS) announced Bob Martin as its newest artist of the month. Martin served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970 as an ammunition specialist in Korea. He now resides in Grand Junction. His artwork is for sale and on display in the main lounge at WROS through mid-July and the Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at WROS, 482 28 Road, Grand Blue Pig Gallery in Palisade. The public is welcome to view his art Junction. pantry, a crisis boarding program, free and low-cost spay/neuter and vaccine clinics, and people-focused services. ARC often works to connect pet owners to resources beyond the needs of their pets. For more information visit www.rh humanesociety.org/animal-resource -center or call 434-7337, ext. 103. Western Slope Memory Care now open Western Slope Memory Care in Grand Junction is now welcoming residents. Memory Care specialists provide 24-hour-a-day care and support in a warm setting designed for the unique needs of adults with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other memory loss. Western Slope offers beautiful, private suites with private bathrooms, The Vigil System, personalized activities and three delicious daily meals. Call 462-9696 to arrange a visit. Area Agency on Aging grant funds Scuttle Bus—available to adults 60 and older Thanks to a grant from the Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Colorado, the Scuttle Bus transports seniors 60 and older from Monterey Park, The Highlands, Grand View Apartments, Ratekin Towers, Nellie Bechtel, Walnut Park and the Clifton area to common shopping destinations such as Walmart, City

Market, Safeway, Mesa Mall and more. All buses are wheelchair accessible. A donation of $1 per round trip is suggested but not required. For more information, call Grand Valley Transit at 256-7433 ext. 8468. July is Parks and Recreation Month To celebrate, Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department (GJPR) wants to hear your story! Did a certain park or recreation program help you get through a tough time? Do you have a favorite memory at a park or event? Whatever your story, GJPR want to know how parks and recreation has impacted your life. Go to https://gjcity.seamlessdocs. com/f/parksandrecmonth to submit your comment. VA implements SCOUTS program to follow up with veterans post-hospital stay VA Western Colorado Health Care System (WCHCS) is one of 10 pilot sites that recently implemented the Supporting Community Outpatient Urgent Care & Telehealth Services (SCOUTS) program at the medical center. Typically, Emergency Department visits have no follow up post-visit, which sometimes leads to readmit into the ER within 72 hours. The SCOUTS program addresses the gap by sending an

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Intermittent Care Tech to the veterans’ homes within one to three days post-visit to reevaluate the veteran and address any urgent needs. For more information, call the VA hospital at 242-0731. The Lodge hires new Life Enrichment Director The Lodge at Grand Junction senior living recently hired Caitlyn Lee as its new Life Enrichment Director. Lee began volunteering at a young age, singing and performing at senior living communities. She went on to work as an activity assistant before moving to Colorado in 2015. “Enriching the lives of seniors has always been my passion,” said Lee. “Growing up next door to my grandparents I learned valuable life lessons and was loved unconditionally.” To learn more about The Lodge, call 500-3416 to schedule a tour. Palisade Museum new hours The Palisade History Museum is open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, with a grand opening week planned around Peach Fest in August. The museum hopes to recruit more volunteer hosts to keep it open more days. If you want to volunteer or know someone, email historicpalisade@outlook.com Mesa County Libraries offers new reading experience Mesa County Libraries launched the Mirrors and Windows Reading Experience, a new, self-paced reading activity. Mirrors and Windows is an all-ages celebration of culture focused on diverse books and films offered through the library catalog. It continues through December 31, 2021. There’s no charge to participate. Sign up at www.mesacounty libraries.org/mirrorsandwindows or call 243-4442. ■

VOLUNTEERS WANTED AARP Driver Safety needs instructors for its AARP Smart Driver Classroom course. www.aarp.org/driversafety volunteer

HopeWest & tHe Community

Together HopeBlooms

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer positions in any of its member agencies. www.rsvpgrandjunction.com | 243-9839, ext. 5 Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers assist in a variety of areas. www.foodbankrockies.org/ west ern-slope-volunteer | 464-1138 Operation Interdependence needs volunteers to hand-write notes for care packages sent to U.S. military men and women. carley@oidelivers.org | 523-4217 Grand Junction Visitor Center seeks tourism ambassadors to welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Flexible schedule. www.visitgrandjunction.com | 256-4054 MOPS Kids (Mothers of Preschoolers) volunteers watch children while parents attend MOPS meetings at Canyon View Vineyard Church. Call 549-6637

op Pat & Tillie Bish

“Nothing exemplifies the ‘can do’ spirit more than the expansion of services HopeWest is creating to serve an aging population in our community. This effort can be a model for the state and the rest of the country.”

Tillie and I moved to Grand Junction in 1962. Together we watched our neighbors in this community come together to take care of each other and to make things happen that just would not be possible in many other cities. HopeWest, with its expanded programs, will assure all of us that help will be there for our families and friends when it is needed. Tillie was proud to support HopeWest and I’m proud to continue our family legacy of being a part of the HopeWest mission. I’m excited to be part of the HopeBlooms Campaign and I hope you will be too.

– Pat Bishop, HopeBlooms Campaign Honorary Chair

Palisade Historical Society welcomes volunteers who like to share the history of Palisade. Email pbwalker630@acsol.net Foster Grandparents are needed in school classrooms. Applicants must be age 55+ and may be eligible for a tax-free stipend. Call 298-9092 Senior Companions 55+ provide friendship and drive homebound seniors to errands and appointments. Call 298-9092

Send news and announcements to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

tHe Herb & Laura may baCon Center for Living your best Join us at HopeBloomsCO.org or call (970) 263-2186 for more information.

HopebLooms Campaign

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

MeSa Montrose County & Delta Caregiver Connections meets at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest, 3090 N. 12th St. Tuesdays | 10-11:30 a.m. | 241-2212

one, meets at Clifton Christian Church, 3241 F 1⁄4 Road. Mondays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 628-1453

Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella Grand Junction, 628 261/2 Road. Call to RSVP. 1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 822-7070

Grief Group for Pets meets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society, 362 28 Road. 2nd Wednesday, bi-monthly | 6-7 p.m. | 434-7337, ext. 103

Caregiver Support Group, sponsored by Aspen Ridge Care Center, meets at Mesa County Libraries’ Central Branch. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 640-7416

Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, 2643 Patterson Road, #503 (St. Mary’s Hospital). 1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 245-2400

Come Back Yoga is open to veterans and their caregivers at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Wednesdays | 2:15-3:15 p.m. | 257-3764

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

Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents at Unity Church. 1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 434-3822 COPD Support Group meets at 581 Grand Valley Drive. 4th Friday | 2 p.m. | 317-7556 | jimcampbell3@aol.com Gamblers Anonymous’ 12-step meeting is held at The Meeting Hall, 1938 N. First St. in Grand Junction. Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719 GriefShare, a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those mourning the death of a loved

HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N 5th St., Grand Junction. 3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 778-9274 Job Searching After 50 meets at Mesa County Workforce Center. You must register as a job seeker at www.connectingcolorado.com. 1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-10 a.m. | 248-7560 Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets monthly in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 298-2351 MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center

In-Patient Dining, 2121 North Ave. 1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 298-2351

606 28 ¾ Road. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 523-0241

Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location. Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 257-2390

TOPS Colorado 458 weight-loss support group meets at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B 1/2 Road. Tuesdays | 5 p.m. | 628-4981

Mindful Pain Management meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Fridays | 1 p.m. | 257-3764

Veteran Coffee Club meets at Western Region One Source. Wednesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 257-3764

MS Breakfast Group meets at Village Inn, 757 Horizon Drive. 1st Tuesday | 9 a.m. | 985-4935

Veteran Peer Support meets weekly at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Wednesdays | 2-3 p.m. | 257-3764

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fruita. 4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www.NAMIWS.org | 462-3989 Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment, community and grace for adults 60+, meets at the Center for Spiritual Living. 2nd Tuesday | 10 a.m.- p.m. | www.cslgj.org | 433-7799 Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 27 1/2 Road. Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. | 379-5786 PTSD Support Group meets at Western Region One Source, 428 28 Road. Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. | 257-3764 TOPS Club weight-loss support group meets at Grace Point Church,

Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only support group meets at the Grand Junction Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 263-8986 Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. 3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 298-2351 Yoga For Life meets at the St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room. Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 p.m. | 298-2351 Yoga for Military Members, hosted at Western Region One Source, offers a free beginner yoga class for military members and their family. Wednesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | 257-3760. n

List your support group for FREE Let our readers know you’re here to help by listing your support group in our monthly magazine Your group’s name: _________________________________ Where do you meet? ________________________________ When do you meet? _________________________________ Contact number: ___________________________________ Email: __________________________________________ Website (if applicable): _______________________________

50 | SUPPORT GROUPS | JULY 2021 |

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The Voice of Adults 50+ in Western Colorado

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

Call: 970-243-8829 *Subject to space availability

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities Senior Recreation Center activities

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

The Senior Center is open!

Open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for cards, games, dominoes and more.

To register for programs and for COVID-19 updates, call Grand Junction Parks and Recreation at 254-3866 or visit www.gjparksandrec.org.

AUGUST 23-29

550 Ouray Ave., Grand Junction 970-243-7408 Open to adults 50 and older 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Membership is $20 per year.

20th annual Western Colorado Senior Games

This epic week-long competition for athletes 50+ has something for everyone! Register using the oﬃcial program on pages 31-34 of the BEACON by August 16. Early bird registration deadline is August 6.

SPECIAL EVENTS

JULY 1 Celebrate the reopening of the Senior Center! Join us at 10 a.m. for a welcome back dance and potluck. Bring a dish to share.

MONDAY

3rd of July Fireworks

Fruita fireworks start at sunset. July 3 | Free

9:00 am 1:00 pm

TUESDAY

Thursday Night Concerts

Bring a lawn chair or blanket to Fruita’s Civic Center Park. This month, enjoy performances by Centennial Band, Whiskey Stomp, Desert Flyer Band, Gerry Goodman Band and Michael Morrow & The Culprits. 7:30 p.m. | Tuesdays | Civic Center Park | Free

FITNESS Silver Sneakers Yoga

Move through seated and standing yoga poses to increase flexibility, balance and range of motion. A chair can be used for support. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Mondays | Fruita Community Center

Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement. A chair can be used for seated exercises or standing support. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Tuesdays | Fruita Community Center

Silver Sneakers Circuit

Circuit training and flexibility. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Wednesdays & Thursdays | Fruita Community Center

Cribbage & Games Card Bingo & Dominoes

9:00 am 1:30 pm

Pool Tour & Games Bingo

WEDNESDAY

SPECIAL EVENTS Food Truck Fridays

Taste some of the Grand Valley’s best food trucks, with live entertainment and craft beer. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | July 2 & 30 | Lincoln Park Barn | Free

Fourth of July Fireworks

Celebrate America’s birthday with a firework show. 9:45 p.m. | July 4 | Lincoln Park Barn | Free

FITNESS Goat Yoga

Find pure joy by playing with baby goats for 15 minutes before and after a gentle hour of yoga. Bring a yoga mat and water. Preregistration required. 8:30-10 a.m. | July 10 & 24 | Mesa County Fairgrounds | $20

Gentle Active Yoga

This class is designed for active

beginners and above. Variations, props, and more challenging options are offered. Bring your own mat. 8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Bookcliﬀ Activity Center | $50 for 10-punch pass, $7 drop-in

Splash Aqua Aerobics

Moderate intensity activities incorporate noodles, hand paddles, water weights and more. Reservations are required at www.gjpr.org/swim reservation. Silver Sneakers membership eligible. 8:30-9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | Orchard Mesa Pool | $46.50 for 12-punch card, $4.50 drop-in

SPORT Beginning Pickleball Clinic

Learn basic rules. Equipment provided. Preregistration required. 8-10 a.m. | July 19 | Pine Ridge Pickleball Courts | $15 ■

9:00 am 9:30 am 1:00 pm

Games Pool Pinochle & Canasta (Register for Pinochle by calling 8-11 am)

THURSDAY 12:00 pm 1:00 pm

Pokeno Poker

FRIDAY 9:00 am 9:00 am 12:45 pm 1:00 pm

Pool Games Bridge Canasta

SATURDAY 8:00 am 9:00 am 1:00 pm

Bridge Games Bingo

Games cost 50 cents to play. We are trying to extend games we play, so bring your favorites. Please wear a mask if you aren’t vaccinated.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 | FUN AFTER 50 |

Montrose & Delta

CALENDAR

July 2

10 a.m. | 42521 R25 Road, Paonia | www.paoniacherrydays.com | 527-3866

6:30-9 p.m. | 228 Grand Ave., Paonia | $5-$8 | www.bluesage.org | 527-7243

July 14

Come to the Montrose Center for the Arts to view historical photographs of mining and railroads, meet the artists and enjoy live music as well as libations and finger foods. 5-8 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | Free | www.mc4arts.com | 787-9428

July 3

July 7, 14, 21, 28

Author Nicole Walker discusses her book of essays, “Processed Meats: Essays on Food, Flesh and Navigating Disaster,” which considers the topic of why and how we turn to food in times of hardship. 7-8:30 p.m. | 61 Clinton St., Ridgway | $10 | www.sherbino.org/event | 318-0892

Narrow Gauge Railroad Opening Reception

July 2-4

Paonia Cherry Days

Enjoy the longest-standing community festival in Colorado, featuring a parade on Saturday and more.

July 2 Cary Morin Live

With deft finger-style guitar and vocals, Cary Morin crafts a roots-infused Native Americana style with hints of bluegrass, folk, blues, and rock.

6-8 p.m. | 610 Clinton St., Ridgway | $20 | www.sherbino. org/event | 318-0892

American Graffiti Saturday Night Cruise

Come dressed in your 1950s leather jacket or poodle skirt and enjoy a classic car show on Montrose’s Main Street, followed by a showing of “Fast and Furious” at the Star Drive-in. 5 p.m. | Main Street, Montrose | 210-601-7954

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Montrose Farmer’s Market

Support local agriculture and artisans and enjoy local musicians every Saturday on South Uncompahgre Avenue between Main and South First Streets. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | S. Uncompahgre Ave., Montrose | Free | 249-0705

July 4

Independence Day fireworks

Don your red, white and blue and celebrate America’s birthday with a parade down Main Street, complete with fireworks over Sunset Mesa at dusk. Parade starts at 10 a.m. | Main Street, Montrose | Free | www.city ofmontrose.org/july4

July 6, 13, 20, 27 Ecstatic Dance

Experience freeform movement, freeing your mind and body and connecting to yourself and others while getting exercise at the Blue Sage Curtis Hall.

52 | CALENDAR | JULY 2021 |

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Life Drawing

Come to Paonia’s Blue Sage Center for the Arts on Wednesday evenings for life drawing. 6-8 p.m. | 228 Grand Ave., Paonia | $5-$10 | www.bluesage.org | 5277243

July 9

Paint like Monet

Explore impressionism and the great works of artist Claude Monet. Anne Hockenberry teaches the basics of oil painting to create your own impressionist artwork. All materials provided. 6:30-8 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | $25 | www.mc4arts.com | 787-9428

July 9

Swing City Express

Swing City Express plays for dancing and listening at Precedence Music Academy featuring everything from 1940s swing to light rock with Latin features. 7-9 p.m. | 511 E. Main St., Montrose | $15 | 964-4707

July 9-18

Crested Butte Wildflower Festival

Celebrate wildflower season in Crested Butte! Festival includes hikes, garden tours, workshops, photography classes and more. www.crestedbuttewildflowerfest ival.org | 349-2571

Sherb Literary Evening: Processed Meats

July 17

Outdoor Summer Artisans Market

Peruse artists’ works outdoors at the Montrose Center for the Arts parking lot. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 11 S. Park Ave., Montrose | Free | www.mc4arts.com | 787-9428

July 17 & 24

Summer Daisy Canvas & Sunset Beach Art Pour

Head over to Amazing Glaze for a relaxing night of easy step-by-step painting, including a drink. On July 17, paint a summer daisy for $38. On July 24, paint a sunset beach for $25. Registration required. 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 209 E. Main St., Montrose | $38 | www.amazing glazeart.com | 252-7225

July 24

Black Canyon Quilt Show

Black Canyon Quilt Show showcases designs, applique and modern quilt art at Montrose Farmer’s Market. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | S. Uncompahgre Ave., Montrose | Free | 708-8550

CALENDAR

July 22-25

July 31-August 7th Delta County Fair

Head over to the Delta County Fairgrounds for exhibits, rodeos, horse events, shows and more! Go online to see the full schedule. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. | 403 Fair Grounds, Hotchkiss | Free | www.deltacounty fair.com | 874-2108 ■

Schedule Your Screening

(970) 252-2983

July 30-August 1 Deltarado Days

Show your love for local farmers and ranchers at Deltarado Days, featuring a rodeo, parade, game tournaments, classic car show, street dance, and more. Go online for event details. Confluence Park, Delta | Free | www.deltacolorado.org/delta rado-schedule | 874-8616

July 24-31

Montrose County Fair & Rodeo Enjoy numerous vendors, food and entertainment, with a week-long lineup of events at the Montrose County Fairgrounds! 8 a.m. | 1001 N. Second St., Montrose | Free | www.montrose countyfairandrodeo.com | 964-2180

July 30

 

Crested Butte Arts Festival

Celebrate the strength of the arts by exploring a broad spectrum of work from more than 100 artists! This year’s festival takes place in a new location: Crested Butte Community School. 818 Red Lady Ave., Crested Butte | $5 day pass, $12 weekend pass | www.crestedbutte artsfestival.com ■

Final Friday Frolic Artwalk

Meet your friends in downtown Paonia for an evening of arts and culture, enjoying live music, food, art and performers. 5-9 p.m. | 130 Grand Ave., Paonia | Free | www.northforkcreative.org

Remember. Celebrate. At Colorow Care Center we honor our veterans.

SEE MORE EVENTS AT BeaconSeniorNews.com

Breathtaking Views with 18 Holes of Incredible Golf

awaits you!

SENIOR RATES Monday thru Thursday 9 Holes w/Cart - $20 18 Holes w/Cart - $39 20% OFF SELECT MEMBERSHIPS* *For All Non-Delta County Residents and First-Time Members (Does not include cart)

Colorow Care Center Dedicated toto creating quality ofof life for Dedicated creating quality life for elders and their care partners elders and their care partners

Services at Colorow Care Center include: Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation Care Short and Long Term Skilled Nursing Care Secured Memory Care | Respite Care | Hospice Care We Accept:

970-323-5504 855 S. Hwy 50 Business Loop Olathe, CO 81425

Montrose & Delta

CLUBS

Alpine Photography Club meets at Colorado Mesa University’s Montrose Campus, classroom 100. 2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com

Crafty Chatty meets to work on unfinished projects and socialize with other crafters. Bring your own materials. Call for details. 249-7198

Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus sings four-part a cappella at Olathe United Methodist Church. Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 765-7020

Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club seeks new dancers! Call to learn more. 773-4495 | deltawriter47@gmail. com

Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets weekly at the Montrose Senior Center starting June 17. Thursdays | 1-3 p.m. | 323-5860 Book Club meets virtually through the Montrose Regional Library. 1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@ montroselibrary.org Crafternoon members meet in the Montrose Library’s meeting room. Members knit and crochet projects to donate to charities. Supplies provided. Experienced crafters help beginners. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays | 2:304:30 p.m. | 249-9656

Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado meet at Friendship Hall at the Montrose County Fairgrounds. 4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 417-4842 Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society offers free help and resources with family history research at the Montrose Genealogy Center, 700 E. Main St. Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m. | 240-1755 Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose. 2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 9862550 | lvcribbs@charter.net

At The Heart Of It All Nestled at the base of the beautiful San Juan Mountains of Colorado, you will discover a place where a true Colorado lifestyle thrives and a sense of community flourishes…these are the Homes at Cobble Creek.. Discover the Possibilities.

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center. 3rd Friday | 7 p.m. | 417-6142 Montrose Elks hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Drive. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 249-4852 Montrose Pavilion Dance Club resumes dances at the Montrose Pavilion on August 14. Dancers of all ages are welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-11 p.m. | $5 | 252-7172 San Juan Dance Club offers eight styles of dance lessons at the Precedence Dance Academy, 513 E. Main St. in Montrose. Singles are welcome. Thursdays | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 2529600 | patdouglas213@yahoo.com Senior Lunch Bunch Club shares lunch together at Our Town Matters, 1225 E. Main St., Montrose. Coffee and tea provided. Fridays | 12 p.m. | 901-9914

Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge, meets at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Grand Junction. 2nd Saturday | 1:30 p.m. | 245-5649 | www.vestafjelllodge.org Veterans Coffee Cedaredge meets at The Pondy, 220 W. Main St. 3rd Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 7562210 | www.whafv.org Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center. Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 756-2210 | www.whafv.org Veterans Coffee Westend meets at the Nucla Airport. 2nd Wednesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 756-2210 | www.whafv.org Western Slope 4 Wheelers meets at the Montrose Rod & Gun Club’s indoor range, 1211 6450 Road. 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 209-5326 ■

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

OUR GATES ARE OPEN!

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For a free estimate 249-4430 Call us today

P: 970.765.4335 • 699 Cobble Drive, Montrose, CO 81403 www.homesatcobblecreek.com •

54 | CLUBS & ACTIVITIES | JULY 2021 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

England FEncE company 1568 N Townsend Ave, Montrose englandfence.com

FUN AFTER 50

Senior Center Activities

To register for programs, and for COVID-19 updates, call 252-4884 or visit www.montroserec.com/637/ COVID-19-ReOpening-UPDATES

LECTURES Police Department Update

Commander Cox gives an update on local law enforcement operations. 1 p.m. | July 6 | donation | Senior Center

The History of Railroads

Rob Gay explores the historic role of railroads in national conservation areas and how they’re important to the character of these areas. 1 p.m. | July 19 | donation | Senior Center

TRIPS & TOURS Tours depart from the Senior Center

High Mountain Lake Tour

Take a 4x4 tour to see the wildflowers and panoramic views atop Corkscrew Pass. 7:45 a.m. | July 15 | $84

Wildflowers & Waterfalls

This 4x4 tour rambles through Yankee Boy Basin, Silver Basin and/ or Governor Basin to view colorful wildflowers and stunning waterfalls. 7:45 a.m. | July 20 | $84

Hike Spirit Gulch and Colorado Boy Mine Take an uphill 3-mile round-trip hike to the remnants of the Barstow Mine followed by a round-trip 1.8mile hike to Colorado Boy Mine. 8 a.m. | July 29 | $20

ACTIVITIES Senior Lunch Bunch Club

Have lunch and make new friends. Coffee and tea provided. 12 p.m. | Fridays | Our Town Matters

To register for programs and for COVID-19 updates, call 874-0923 or visit www.cityofdelta.net/parksrecgolf

Adult Summer Craft Camp

CLASSES

For crafters of all types. Bring your own supplies. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | Craft Room

Tuesday Needlers

Jam Session / Sing Along

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

Attendees take turns picking and leading a song. Spectators welcome. 4-6 p.m. | Mondays | Free | Senior Center

10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Pinochle

Dominoes

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

Party Bridge Club

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

FITNESS Line Dancing

Learn steps with formal instruction. 4-6 p.m. | Mondays | $2 | Senior Center

Stretch Exercise

Increase flexibility and energy. 9-9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | Free | Senior Center

Moving with Mike

This DVD-led workout includes a warmup, 20-minute workout, and a 5-minute stretch/cool down. 9-9:30 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays | Free | Senior Center

GAMES Omaha Poker Tournament

1-3:30 p.m. | 3rd Tuesday | $2.50

Texas Hold ’Em Tournament

1-3:30 p.m. | 1st Wednesday | $2.50

Cribbage

1-3 p.m. | Thursdays | Free

Mahjong

1-3 p.m. | Tuesdays | Free | 2406188

Bingo

1-2 p.m. | 2nd, 3rd, 4th Wednesdays | $2

FITNESS Pilates

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

Senior Circuit

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

Body Bar

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

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

Silver Sneakers Classic

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

Body Blitz

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

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre elements. 5:30 p.m. | Wednesdays

Dance Fit

Get fit and have fun while following along to choreographed dances. 5:30 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

Cardio Crazy

Incorporate high-energy cardio to gain strength and muscle toning. 8:30 a.m. | Mondays and Wednesdays

Pool Power

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

Body & Health

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

Light-n-Lively

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

Splash Circuits

Do the aquatic equivalent to gym circuits for a total body workout. 11 a.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

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 and Thursdays

Deep Benefits

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

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | JULY 2021 | FUN AFTER 50 |

Montrose & Delta Delta County Libraries looking for assistant Delta County Libraries is looking to fill its Circulation/Public Services Assistant position at the Cedaredge and Hotchkiss Libraries. The assistant would work 36 hours a week with a pay range of $13.11-$18 per hour. Benefits include health insurance options, life insurance, sick leave, vacation/holiday leave, retirement options and employee assistance. Learn more and apply at www.deltalibraries.org or call 399-7876. Montrose class of 1976 reunion Montrose High School (MHS) Class of 1976 will hold its 45th class reunion on Saturday, August 28, 2021. Festivities start at 2 p.m. at Montrose Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr. Dinner will be served by Serving Grace Catering at 5 p.m. Reservations are $25 per person. Mem-

BEACON BITS

bers of other MHS classes, former faculty and staff are invited to join as well. Call 209-3374 or 249-1418 for details, or check out the group’s Facebook page. Emergency Broadband Benefit covers internet bills for those eligible Older adults without reliable home internet and technology are often unable to participate in many online tools needed to access health and income supports, including telehealth services. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has authorized a new Emergency Broadband Benefit, which will provide a discount of $50 per month for eligible low-income households to cover internet bills and provide discounts on some devices. Find out if you are eligible at www.fcc. gov/broadbandbenefit, or call 833511-0311 for a mail-in application.

61st Season MAGIC CIRCLE PLAYERS

EST. 1959

M THE LLY, FRO R E K IM T BY OKE ADAPTED BY RICHARD HO K O O B

A hilarious episode in the lives of the endearing surgeons and nurses operating a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. Drama, comic adventures, romance, a genuine love of life, and of course, Radar.

Directed by Casey Dukeman

OPENS JULY 2, 2021 PLAYS THROUGH JULY 17, 2021 M*A*S*H is entertaining theatre that the whole family can enjoy. Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois

MagicCirclePlayers.com • 420 S. 12th • Montrose, CO • 970-249-7838 • mcp@montrose.net

56 | BEACON BITS | JULY 2021 |

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Crested Butte Music Festival hosts 25th season The Crested Butte Music Festival (CBMF) celebrates world-class music on July 23-October 1. This season features innovative musical adventures in wilderness settings, a new Singer-Songwriter camp, and the Sally Miner Lecture Series, covering topics ranging from Dancing Bach to An Introduction to Rhythm.

Programs will be located across the Gunnison Valley, such as the new Crested Butte Center for the Arts. The CBMF presents worldclass musicians in classical, Gypsy Jazz, opera, bluegrass, and more. To view the entire schedule and purchase tickets, please visit www. crestedbuttemusicfestival.org or call 300-3409.

Montrose’s “Tipi the Town” wins state award The City of Montrose Development and Revitalization Team (DART) and the Colorado Yurt Company have been selected for the Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence for their partnered program, Tipi the Town, in response to COVID-19. In the fall of 2020, Montrose-based Colorado Yurt Company teamed up with DART to help local restaurants adapt to COVID restrictions with 11 tipis, allowing diners to sit together in enclosed eating areas separate from other patrons. Colorado Yurt provided tipis free of charge while the city utilized government-dispersed COVID relief funds to cover expenses, installation and eventual removal. Learn more about the award at www.cityofmontrose.org.

for funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. To apply, contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 844-684-6333 weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Necessary information includes personal information of the deceased along with a death certificate and receipts for funeral expenses.

Apply for FEMA funeral assistance for COVID-related deaths If you lost a loved one to COVID, financial assistance is available

To register, call 800-272-3900 or register online at http://bit.ly/VACG-SeriesZOOM.

Free webinars for veterans with Alzheimer’s The Alzheimer’s Association offers these free webinars for veterans living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia and their caregivers. Webinars are from 1-2:30 p.m. • July 6: Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body, or Tele-Geriatrics for Veterans • July 13: Legal and Financial Planning

Agape Mail Ministry sends encouraging letters Sandy Longmore has mailed out funny stories, words of encouragement, and inspirational and uplifting thoughts for 35 years, bringing laughter and good thoughts to everyone. She now wants to make her stories available to others to send on to their friends and family. If you’d like to receive one of Longmore’s letters, email momlong more@yahoo.com or call or text 901-7777, afternoons or evenings. Colorado bans plastic and Styrofoam containers Bill HB21-1162 recently signed by Governor Polis prohibits stores and retail food establishments, on and after September 1, 2022, from providing single-use plastic carryout bags to customers. One exception is that a restaurant (not a store or convenience store) may provide single-use plastic carryout bags. The plastic bag prohibition does not apply to inventory purchased before September 1, 2022, and used on or before March 31, 2023, which may be supplied to a customer at the point of sale for a 10-cent fee. Also, starting January 1, 2022, restaurants can no longer use expanded polystyrene containers for carry-out. Read the full bill at www. leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1162 ■

Send news and announcements to Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

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

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

NAMI NAMI Family Family Support Support Group Group meets at the PIC meets at the PIC Place, Place, 87 87 Merchant MerDrive, Montrose. chant Drive, Montrose. 3rd 3rd Wednesday Wednesday || 5:30-7 5:30-7 p.m. p.m. || 520-282-9060 520-282-9060

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Siggie Carpenter

What musician or band would you see in concert that’s no longer performing? Barb and DJ Hladik – Cedaredge “Since the ’70s, we’ve been big fans of Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band but not sure if they’re still performing. We have some great memories of their earlier concerts.”

Dr. Jesus Ochoa - Delta “It would be an amazing experience to witness a performance by any one of the great classical composers of the 17th and 18th century like Bach, Stravinsky or Beethoven. My favorite composer is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.”

Bill Ball – Montrose “I teach guitar lessons and am a huge fan of Southern Rock music; it’s a definitive blend of rock and roll, rhythm and blues, jazz, country and gospel. To hear the original Marshall Tucker Band from the early ’70s play ‘Can’t You See’ would bring the house down.”

Mark and Christine Miller – Montrose “We would be so excited to see and hear Glenn Miller and his Orchestra perform. They were the most popular and successful dance orchestra of the swing era. His music is timeless.”

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FUN & GAMES

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CROSSWORD

COMING SOON

FUTURE BRANCH OF

2452 PATTERSON ROAD GRAND JUNCTION, CO 81505 ACROSS 1. Cold mold 6. Jr.’s exam 10. Former name

of Thailand Committee head Overdue ___ way (not at all) Fields of comedy Bring home Big Island bash Orch. section Domestic cat Lofty nest Silly Sea eagles Granular Map within a map Carefree outing Thoughts Actor McKellen Informally Old verb ending Papal garment Veinlike deposit Influences Leopardlike cat Article of bedding Jazzy Chick Take ___ for the worse 50. Where Columbus was born

14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 23. 24. 26. 27. 29. 31. 32. 33. 36. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 46. 48. 49.

52. Painter Gerard

___ Borch Exec’s note To boot Sheer fabric Boyfriend Make it to the end Bert’s buddy Places to stay “Song of the South” song syllables 64. Royal

55. 56. 57. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63.

DOWN 1. Plays a part 2. Ammo 3. Male head of

a family “Rocky ___”(1982) King Minos, for one First-year cadet Swedish auto Give it ___ Hamilton’s bill Still Accustom Diarist Nin Pouting grimace ___ day now... You ___ right! Greek goddess of victory 26. Actor Morales 27. Sticky stuff

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 22. 23. 25.

28. 29. 30. 32. 33. 34. 35. 37. 38. 39. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 53. 54. 56. 58.

___ and rave Objects of devotion Hawaiian goose Noncommittal 21_BC17_GJ_FUTURE_BRANCH_453x547_AD.indd words Detaching Designer Gucci Russian no Aftermath Q.E.D. part Peter Fonda title role Thin and watery Tic-tac-toe win Orifice of a volcano Dutch painter Jan Pertaining to people Benjamin Prefix with dexterity Delighted “___ quam videri” (North Carolina’s motto) Director Kazan Film spool Pie-mode link Metal-bearing mineral

bankofcolorado.com

5/27/21 1:10 PM

SUDOKU

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Fancy Guppy fish for sale, $1.25 each. Will deliver purchases of 10 or more locally. Delta, CO. Please send text message. 901-9364.

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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.

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NOW OPEN My Little Haven New and used home furnishings, antiques, collectibles, and furniture. Come in and check us out we are much bigger than we look. 575 25 Road, Grand Junction. Open Tues-Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 986-8141. mylittlehavengj.com.

HOME SERVICES ANTIQUES, APPRAISALS, ESTATE SALES. With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the Valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048. THE CLEANING LADY. De-clutter this summer, I can help! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just a one-time shot. Linda K. 720841-7505 or 263-7364.

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Need a railing? Call Johnston Metal for a beautiful custom iron railing. 303-718-1661 COMPUTER LADY, LLC. In-home repair. 18 years serving Mesa County. Windows, Internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified. Remote services available. www. CompLady.com or 255-1216. SENIOR BEAUTY SPECIAL. First-time clients receive $10 off single service, $15 off cut and color packages. Regan’s Regal Beauty, 2500 North Ave., #2, Grand Junction. Call Regan to schedule: 719-425-0543

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YARD SALES Enormous yard sale. Moving— everything must go! Thursday, Friday, Saturday, July 8-10. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2969 Highway 50, Orchard Mesa. Farm equipment, tools, welder, building supplies, horse trailer, jewelry, wheelchair, handicap scooter, antiques, more.

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

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OPINION

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE! OF GRAND JUNCTION

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

Community, Security, & Value! The Village Cooperative of Grand Junction is coming soon and designed specifically for active adults (62+) who want the benefits of home ownership but without the hassles of maintenance, repair bills or worries.. See why there is no better value with all the amenities in the entire area! • • • • •

Reserve now and choose your interior finishes Homes are selling quickly - Don’t wait! Home ownership with no maintenance Annual appreciation on your investment Lock-in your best price before construction begins!

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Do you need Social Security? By Dr. Glenn Mollette

n 2020 over 64 million Americans were collecting Social Security. The National Institute for Retirement Security (NIRS) reported that Social Security is the only income source for 40 percent of retirees over the age of 60. The study also claimed that only 6.8 percent of retirees receive income from the three-legged stool—Social Security, a defined benefit pension and a defined contribution plan. Another study conducted by researchers at the Social Security Administration found that only 19.6 percent of Americans 65 and over received at least 90 percent of their total incomes from Social Security. That’s a big difference from the stat provided by the NIRS. Nevertheless, the point is that for millions of Americans, Social Security is either all they have or mostly all they have. Also, there are some government employees who have their own pension system and do not pay into Social Security. Social Security taxes take a bite of our income from every paycheck. Employers and employees each pay 6.2 percent of wages up to the taxable maximum of $142,800 for 2021. The self-employed pay 12.4 percent. Some self-employed struggle with paying the 12.4 percent and look for creative ways to only report a small salary. This may enable you to have more cash now but your Social Security check will be much smaller when you become retirement age. Religious objectors can often be exempted from paying the tax. I knew a minister who in his younger days did the paperwork to exempt

out of Social Security. It was the one of the biggest mistakes of his life. When he became 65, he couldn’t quit working. He had also drawn out most of his other pension savings for emergencies. With meager retirement dollars he was also faced with having to buy Medicare insurance. To make matters worse, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. At a relatively young senior adult age, he had nothing with which to fight. He was tired from his long years of work. He had nothing financially saved. He couldn’t stop working. Medical insurance became a dilemma and within two years he was dead. Social Security is not a perfect world. It won’t make you rich, but you’ll be glad you have the check and the medical insurance. Keep this in mind: The average monthly Social Security payment for 2021 is $1,543, and the maximum you can receive at full retirement age is $3,113 a month. If you have waited until you are 70, the amount is $3,895. These figures change all the time depending on cost-of-living adjustments and how long you work and how much you pay into the system. The longer you work and the more you pay into Social Security, the more you collect at retirement. So, go to work and be glad for every dollar withheld from your check for Social Security. ■

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of Georgetown College, and Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books, including "Uncommon Sense." His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

In honor of 4th of July this year, we wanted to share a story that touches our hearts. This story speaks to the heart and tenacity of the soldiers who choose to serve our country. We are so thankful for those who choose to protect our freedom. God Bless America!

Michael’s Story It was another part of the training, another 21 days of hell. I knew that before I started. It was the weeding-out process. It was as if they were saying, “If you have a weak mindset, then get out of the way.” Isn’t that the same with life? There are going to be days of hell. How you deal with them is your choice. In high school, I was always part of a team, from soccer to cross country to scouts, and when I graduated from high school in May 2018, I knew I wanted to continue to be part of a team. More specifically, I wanted to be part of a team with good dudes who do cool stuff. My twin brother and I enlisted in the Air Force, shipped out in January 2019, and joined the Air Force Special Operations Command. The Assessment and Selection process for Battlefield Airmen is brutal. But that doesn’t scare me. As I dove deeper into my job, figuratively and literally, I knew I belonged. I was proud and ready to stand beside the guys next to me. As people were weeded out of the program, those of us still there grew closer through sheer determination, grit and toughness like nothing else. We had been through the worst of times together, but we came out successful. We worked hard and we supported each other. They called me the Baby Blue Eel. I guess I have a knack for being underwater. It was no surprise then that my days off had me heading into the water. It was June 20, 2020, and as I ran into the surf, I thought to myself, “This is going to be a badass dive.” That badass dive turned into something else. Hitting the bottom, I rolled over my head and broke my neck. It’s called a C7 complete: there is no networking from my brain stem to the rest of my spinal cord. Today, I think about my special ops training from my hospital bed. Out of the 300 men and women who begin the assessment and selection process, only 36 will make it to actual beret day. Right now, I am a statistic of one of those that didn’t finish.

Yet is a big word to remember. If I can give you some hopeful advice from a future member of the Air Force Special Ops, it would be this:

That is, I am a statistic, until I come back.

1. Life happens in baby steps. You can’t do life in leaps and bounds. It comes in seconds and minutes.

I dream of getting my legs back and heading out on a run, but for now, every day is arm day. Every day I work on my physical strength as well as my mental strength. I am back up to 60 push-ups. I’ve got full use of my biceps and triceps, and just a couple of weeks ago, I wiggled my toes.

2. Keep your eyes on the horizon. There is always going to be something in your life that’s bad, but everything has an end. Make it to that end. Then find rest and feel peace. 3. Keep laughing. If laughter and comedy were not part of my repertoire, I would not be here. I am 21 years old and I just wiggled my toes. But I have dreams and I am still chasing after them. If I can find joy in this world I think you can, too.

Mentally, this isn’t cumbersome. Yes, I am a C7 quadriplegic, and some days are bad. But at the end of the day, I am still here. I still have a chance to give back. I still have opportunities The obstacles in your way may be life’s weeding-out process. Keep believing in your God. Stay to give of myself, and I know I can’t do it alone. I must be connected to God and keep my mentally strong. Stay focused on the present. Don’t worry about the past, and don’t worry faith in Him. Obviously, He’s not finished with me, yet. about the future. It may not have happened, yet. Just remember: yet is a very big word.

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