July 2021 - Life After 50

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The Voice of Adults 50+ in the Pikes Peak Region

JULY 2021

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

22

Where were you during the Summer of Love?

28

My love affair with Bob Ross

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Investment advisory and financial planning services offered through Simplicity Wealth, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Subadvisory services are provided by Advisory Alpha, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance, Consulting, and Education services offered through Senior Tax Advisory Group. Senior Tax Advisory Group is a separate and unaffiliated entity from Simplicity Wealth Management LLC and Advisory Alpha, LLC.

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Keep doing what you love.

Maintain independence by increasing your strength and mobility.

Learn ways to reduce your risk of falling.

Assess your risk of falling by asking yourself these three key questions*: •

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Learn how you can reduce your risk of falling in our free, virtual fall-prevention program you can participate in from home, titled Aging with Independence and Mobility (AIM) and developed in partnership with the NextFifty Initiative.

For more information or to enroll, visit uchealth.org/fallprevention or contact us at injuryprevention@uchealth.org or call 719.365.2161. *From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

FRENCH CANADA

County lous Fall Colors of Summit bu Fa e Th ld: Go in d re ve Co

September 25, 2021

195

$

A Spectacular Day Trip to South Park City & Breckenridge

PER PERSON DEPOSIT OF $50 TO SECURE SPACE; FINAL PAYMENT DUE 9/1/20.

Discover the golden leaves of Colorado’s shimmering aspen trees on this stunning drive during peak viewing season.

As we head over Wilkerson Pass we’ll see brightly colored gold patches of aspen trees dotted among the stately Colorado evergreens. Passing through the land where bison roam and antelope play, we soon come upon the historic and remarkably well preserved town of South Park City, where over forty authentic buildings are filled with over 60,000 artifacts of a day gone by.

After leaving South Park City we climb Hoosier Pass, home to magnificent views of the Continental Divide. Here you will find panoramic views of golden aspens quaking in the breeze. After some photo opportunities, we’ll continue on to the beautiful city of Breckenridge, where we will enjoy a lovely lunch and walking history tour, along with free time for shopping. Breckenridge’s main street is home to over 200 shops, so you will certainly find something for everyone! After a lovely afternoon in Breckenridge we’ll head for home, with still more beautiful fall colors to see along the way.

PRICE INCLUDES: A fully escorted tour aboard a luxury motorcoach, gourmet lunch, guided history tour, fabulous sighteeing and all fees.

Fall Colors & Cathedrals of French Canada

history tour, fabulous sighteeing and all fees. Deposit of $50 to secure space; final payment due 9/1/20.

Departs September 30, 2021 $3,875

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT IS $799.DEPOSIT OF $500 PER PERSON DUE TO SECURE PER BOOKING; FINAL PAYMENT DUE 8/1 PERSON

DAY TRIP TO DENVER

Day 1 - Arrive in French Canada - Settle into your conveniently located hotel before a welcome dinner this evening.

Day 2 - Montreal Sightseeing and Notre-Dame Basilica - Embark on a narrated tour of Montreal, one of Canada’s vibrant cities known for its rich French-Canadian heritage Day 3 - Ride VIA Rail and Quebec Sugar Shack - After breakfast, Canada’s VIA Rail service takes you to Quebec City.

The only walled city in North America, Quebec’s Grande-Al-lee is alive with many quaint shops and sidewalk cafes.

Day 4 - Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame, St. Anne de Beaupre and Montmorency Falls - Depart this morning for a scenic drive along the “Old King’s Road” passing beautiful Normandy and Brittany homes to St. Anne de Beaupre, for a visit to the beautiful shrine, the oldest pilgrimage site in North America.

Day 5 - Albert Gilles Copper Art Studio and Ermitage Saint-Antoine Shrine - Learn the intricacies of producing copper art at the Albert Gilles Copper Art Studio with a tour and hands-on workshop to make your own copper work of art.

Day 6 - St-Felicien Zoo and Old Perron Cheese Factory - Traveling to the shores of Lac St-Jean, come to the famed St-Felicien Zoo. Day 7 - Our Lady of the Cape Shrine - Today, travel to the city of Trois-Rivieres where you’ll visit the Borealis Center to explore the history of the pulp and paper industry in Quebec.

Day 8 - Transfer to Montreal and Home - After breakfast we depart for home.

PRICE INCLUDES: A fully escorted tour as described, round trip airfare from Colorado Springs, all transfers, lovely accommodations, breakfast each morning, 2 lunches, and 6 dinners.

Day Trip To See The Lion King Musical

Departs December 2, 2021 The Lion King Musical and Christkindl Market

195

$

PER PERSON. DEPOSIT IS $50 AND THE FINAL PAYMENT IS DUE NOVEMBER 1

Join us as we head to Denver for a fabulous day! Enjoy lunch at Maggiano’s Little Italy, excellent seats for the Lion King, and then shopping at Christkindl Market for any last-minute Christmas gifts! Experience the Stunning Artistry, Unforgettable Music, and the Exhilarating Choreography. Now is the Time to Join the Circle of Life at Broadway’s Award-Winning Best Musical.

PRICE INCLUDES: Fully escorted tour aboard a luxury motor coach, ticket to the Lion King, wonderful lunch including salad, appetizers, entree, beverage, and dessert, and time to shop at the Christkindl Market.

An Old Time Branson Christmas November 1, 2021 Celebrate the Holidays with fabulous shows, lights, shopping and an old-fashioned paddleboat!

1,675

$

PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY; SINGLE SUPPLEMENT IS $275. DEPOSIT OF $250 PER PERSON DUE TO SECURE SPACE; FINAL PAYMENT DUE 9/30/2020.

Day 1 - Depart Colorado Springs for Salina, KS and overnight.

Day 2 - We’ll stop at the Russell Stover Outlet Store. We’ll arrive in Branson early this afternoon and check into our hotel, The Savannah House. We’ll have dinner at a steakhouse and then it’s on to the award-winning The SIX Christmas Show at American Bandstand Theater. After the performance we’ll head to the Trail of Lights, Branson’s most beautiful Christmas light display.

Day 3 - After breakfast at our hotel, we’ll head to the Pierce Arrow Theater to see the Doug Gabriel Christmas Show.

This afternoon is on your own to shop, relax or view the beautiful Christmas displays all through town. This evening, we’ll dine at Landry’s Seafood House and then it’s on to Clay Cooper’s Country Express Christmas. After we’ll head back to the hotel for hot cobbler, fresh cookies and ice cream!

Day 4 - This morning we head to the amazing Titanic Museum. This afternoon you’re in for a treat as we board the Showboat Branson Belle for the dinner and show. This classic showboat-style activity transports guests to the days of paddleboats along the Mississippi River right on Table Rock Lake. After we leave the Showboat Branson Belle it’s on to the world-famous Dutton Theater! After our evening performance we’ll head back to the hotel for homemade deserts!

Day 5 - We say goodbye to Branson after breakfast and head to Carthage, MO where we will tour the Precious Moments Chapel and store. Then, it’s on to Osceloa, Missouri, where the Osceloa Cheese Company started in 1944. We’ll have time for shopping before stopping for lunch. After lunch, we’ll head toward Salina and overnight.

Day 6 - This morning we’ll continue toward home, stopping at the historic Cathedral of the Plains, located in Victoria, Kansas. After lunch in Colby, it’s home to Colorado Springs.

PRICE INCLUDES: A fully escorted tour aboard a luxury motorcoach, 5 nights lovely accommodations, breakfast each morning, 3 dinners, all shows and attraction tickets as described, luggage handling, all taxes and fees.

HAWAII

The majesty of Quebec against the backdrop of the Laurentian Mountains

2021/2022 Travel Destinations BRANSON, MISSOURI

SUMMIT COUNTY, COLORADO

Quality Cruises and Travel

Proudly Presents

Hawaii Four Island Holiday Departs January 21, 2022

11 Day tour to Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island

PER 3,985 PERSON

$

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. PLEASE CALL FOR SINGLE OCCUPANCY PRICING.

Day 1 - Depart Colorado Springs for lovely Honolulu. Check into our hotel and get ready for a sunset dinner cruise.

Day 2 - Full day tour, including Pearl Harbor, the USS Missouri, the USS Arizona Memorial, city tour of Honolulu and the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl Crater.

Day 3 - Today we depart for Maui. After arriving we’ll transfer to our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore.

Day 4 - Experience Maui on this full day tour. See waterfalls, beautiful beaches, flora and fauna and Mt. Haleakala Day Day 5 - Whale watching excursion with a Certified Marine Naturalist.

Day 6 - Full day tour of the Big Island, including volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and much more.

Day 7 - On to the lovely island of Kauai. The island is so lush and green Day 8 - Today, we’ll see the north part of the island, including Hanalei Valley, Wailua Falls, Kapaa Town and Moloaa Bay. Day 9 - “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is on our schedule for today. Waimea Canyon is over ten miles long and 4000 ft.

Day 10 - Our last day in Hawaii is yours to enjoy on your own, After we check out of our hotel we’ll head over to Smith’sLuau, perennially voted the best luau on the island.

PRICE INCLUDES: Fully escorted tour, roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, 10 nights lovely accommodations, breakfast each morning, 2 dinners, all tours as described, transfers, inter-island flights, all taxes and surcharges.

Deposit of $400 due to secure space; final payment due 1/5/21.

QUALITY CRUISES AND TRAVEL

Kris Monroe, Master Cruise Counselor (719) 685-0544 • qualitycruisesandtravel@yahoo.com

I N T HI S I S S U E

The Voice of Adults 50+ in the Pikes Peak Region July 2021 | Volume 34 | Issue 7

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Managing Editor Rhonda Wray Editor in Chief Cloie Sandlin Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg Graphic Designers B. Bigler Michael L. Madsen Melissa Levad

8 COVER STORY He’s one tough mudder

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

10

20 Think like a forest

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

22

Customer Service Manager Stacey Splude Advertising Director Kevin K. VanGundy Advertising Executives Bruce Schlabaugh Jil Goebel Distribution Manager Anthony Welch Delivery Eulogio Martinez • Lucinda Perry Diane Salkovich • Peggy Searles Robert & Kathy Wernly • Gerald Wilson

P.O. Box 50125 Colorado Springs, CO 80949 Phone: 719-900-7664 Website: www.LaFifty.com Email: Info@LaFifty.com Life After 50 is published by Pendant Publishing, Inc. dba w Senior News P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 Phone: 970-243-8829 Life After 50 brings hope and help to seniors in the Pikes Peak Region and those who serve them.

Life After 50 is published at the beginning of each month and is distributed at more than 250 locations throughout Colorado Springs and the surrounding communities in El Paso and Teller counties.

Publication of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Columns are opinions of the writers, not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Deadline for advertising and announcements is the 20th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available upon request.

I get by with a little help from my friends Pikes Peak Seniors Helping Seniors matches seniors needing care with compassionate senior caregivers

13 I hate road trips with my husband! Help!

Vacations are meant to be a time of

happiness, relaxation and seeing the sights. What do you do when trips with your husband are anything but?

15 What switches on the twitch?

The Summer of Love Readers share their memories from the Summer of Love 1967

24 Faith: Does God have a plan for America?

25 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

28

Some of the most common causes for muscle twitching

18 Business Highlight: Pikes Peak Eye Care

Pikes Peak Eye Care can better your vision in the blink of an eye

19

© Copyright 2021 • All Rights Reserved

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

30 Calendar 32 Fun After 50

Senior Center Activities

7 questions to ask a cat sitter or boarding facility On the Cover

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

Whether you take your cat to a boarding facility or hire a sitter, always ask for references and vet them with these questions

33 Question of the Month 35 Support Groups 36 Fun & Games 38 Classifieds 42 Opinion

Do you need Social Security?

THE EYE DOCTOR FOR MEDICAID, MEDICARE AND VETERANS Quality products and optimal care using the latest innovations at NO COST is our promise to you.

• We perform eye exams on all ages!

• We perform Optos Retinal Exams on all patients • Dry Eye Evaluations and treatment - LipiFlow • Eye exams and glasses covered for VA registered Veterans • Most insurances accepted • Great selection of frames and all lens upgrades available

Our ‘Eye Love Program ’ offers

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530 Communication Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80905

NEW LOCATION – inside Peak Vista – 350 International Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80910

NEW LOCATION- inside Boys & Girls Club – 1455 South Chelton Road Colorado Springs, CO 80910

Open 5 Days a Week 9 AM – 5 PM | 719-596-2020 | vopa.org

Celebrate Your Independence.

Enjoy the freedom of independent resort-style living!

Our all-inclusive retirement lifestyle makes it easy to enjoy the good things in life with amenities like Freedom Dining, housekeeping services, a robust social calendar, and more!

Join us for a July event, or call to schedule a private tour!

July Events

Tour Today!

Dine & Discover Tuesday, July 13 at 5:00 p.m.

Are you ready to Celebrate Life? Join us aboard our cruise ship on land for a brief presentation that highlights our all-inclusive lifestyle!

Enjoy a chef-prepared dinner and experience resort-style living first-hand!

RSVP by July 10.

Sock Hop Thursday, July 22 at 11:00 a.m.

Travel back to the 50s! Join us for a classic diner-inspired lunch with delicious malts and shakes, then meet in the theater to shake, rattle, and roll to live music and your favorite timeless hits! RSVP by July 19.

Aspen Trail Call Today to Schedule a Private Tour:

719-266-2989

5455 New Car Drive  Colorado Springs, CO 80923 AspenTrailRetirement.com

EDITOR'S COLUMN

Greetings, readers!

W

e’ve all had harried and hurried days where we’ve rushed about doing this errand or that, staggering under the load of bulging grocery bags. Maybe the traffic on Powers or Academy was exceptionally hectic. Perhaps the vacation’s over and the jet lag has set in. You turn that doorknob, open the door and you’re home.

You set your heavy load down and gratefully enter the haven—your haven—that is safe, comforting, and rejuvenating, and you’re enveloped by the familiar sights, scents and sounds. Your favorite chair and fuzzy blanket. A cup of coffee.

A woof and nuzzle from a pet. Ahhhh…

After a stressful season of job hunting and oh yes, a pandemic, I’m enthused and content to be home at the helm of Life After 50. Those who know me best have said some variation of, “You’re going to love that!” upon hearing my good news. I agree! As with any new job, there is much to learn, but the staff, writers and readers of our magazine have already inspired and delighted me, and I’m so looking forward to our journey together.

Additional reasons I’m happy to be here:

I’M ONE OF YOU. I fit the Life After 50 demographic. This means that what you’re interested in, I’m likely interested in as well. As many of you know, the sandwich generation is real. As the mom of four young adults in various stages of independence, both parents still (thankfully!) living, and a sweet and spunky 3-year-old granddaughter, I get it. I’m right in there with you.

LETTERS

from our readers

WORKING WITH WORDS IS MY JAM. I was a huge bookworm as a kid, and I loved to write poetry. The obvious choice for a college major? English, of course! A wordsmith in some capacity is all I ever wanted to be career-wise, and I’m blessed to have had a lengthy career in publishing as editor, writer, and proofreader here in the Springs. (Meriwether Publishing, anyone?)

I like to read and write for fun when I’m off the clock as well. So many books, so little time.

I CRAVE A SENSE OF COMMUNITY (AND BET YOU DO, TOO) I’ve lived in Colorado Springs since 1987, and I’m amazed at all the changes I’ve seen. Those who have lived here longer than I have tell tales of Austin Bluffs being just a dirt road with nothing beyond it. Unbelievable! As the years tick by with the inevitable additional changes, here’s what I hope will be a constant for you.

It is my hope that Life After 50 will be a source of encouragement for us here in Colorado Springs, opening us all up to the possibilities unique to each passing year. As we age, let’s do it better. Let’s share our experiences. Let’s help each other navigate life at this age and stage, tethered together by a desire to make these years really count. Deal?

HOW TO CONTACT ME Do you have an article or a story you’d like us to cover? Drop me a line at 719-900-7664 or email me at Rhonda@LaFifty.com ■

SHOW US YOUR PETS “This very affectionate sweet-natured Tortia (pronounced Tor-sha) has brought immense joy to my household since fall 2013.”

- Cindy Powell

Rhonda Wray, Managing Editor Rhonda@LaFifty.com

“AgeWell always gets a good response from Life After 50. It’s well read by the senior population.”

- Cyndy Kulp, AgeWell Medical Associates “Thank you for Life After 50. I love the updated format. I hope it goes on and on. I’m 65 and I just love the [May] cover story!”

- Anonymous RE: “Ok, Boomer” (June) “’Ok Boomer’ was well written. I’m with the younger people, and not because I’m not 50 yet. The Boomer generation is addicted to that great Hollywood line, ‘I brought you into this world, and I’ll take you out!’ But, they fail to give that credit to God, instead believing it is the power of their congregation, in prayer or by force or by money.”

- Kirsten V., Colorado Springs RE: “Can you pass this financial literacy quiz?” (June) “Yes. Aced it!”

- Vic V. RE: “The hidden benefits of hiking poles” (June) “I enjoyed your article about hiking/trekking poles because it was good, true information. Check out Nordic walking poles.

When not on the trail, they are great exercise on an in-town walk. They’re very popular in Europe, and I’ve always wondered why Coloradans don’t use them.”

- Sharon R. RE: “Curious about cannabis?” (May) “Just read the digital edition of Life After 50 and I am very pleased! It’s exactly the tone I wanted, and the quote from Katherine Golden is, literally, GOLDEN!” - Gary Morse

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Info@LaFifty.com PO Box 50125, Colorado Springs, CO 80949 WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

7

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

I

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.LAFIFTY.COM

the story of a determined man. He’s competed 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. Between races, Lachance keeps

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.

in physical shape by jogging.

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 compa-

ny 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.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 |

9

LIFE AFTER 50

I get by with a little

help from my friends

Seniors helping seniors is a win-win

By Anthony Welch

T

he reality of her aging parents hit Suzanne McGregor hard after a simple call to her folks in Fort Worth, Texas.

She called to check in on her father, who was to have a stent placed in his heart. She was shocked when her mother said they’d canceled the hospital appointment.

“You can’t cancel,” said McGregor. “It’s his heart.”

It turned out her mother had broken her wrist and was in no shape to drive. Without hesitation, McGregor put in her two weeks’ notice and moved to Texas to help care for them. But her life-changing experience got her wondering about those who couldn’t drop everything to help their aging parents.

Upon returning to Colorado Springs in 2013, McGregor opened Pikes Peak Seniors Helping Seniors (PPSHS), a non-medical care organiza-

tion that matches seniors in need of help with compassionate seniors who are happy to oblige.

PPSHS is a win-win for caregivers, clients and their families, said McGregor. The rewards of companionship help both clients and caregivers age more gracefully, and caregivers help make life easier for those aging at home.

“Another rewarding part is helping families who may not live in town,” said McGregor, 56.

call for the occasional help with yard work. Similarly, many seniors still want to work, give back and make some extra money.

FINDING NEW PURPOSE Bobbi Gascho, 72, retired from being a psychiatric nurse seven years ago. She spent much of the first few months of retirement taking care of herself at the YMCA, but something was missing.

“I needed a purpose, so I signed up for Seniors Helping Seniors,” said Gascho.

Over the last four years, she’s provided care for 77-year-old Carmen Cericalo. She stops by his place three days a week to help him get out of bed, showered and ready for the day.

“We do a lot of talking and we share a lot of the same philosophies,” said Cericalo.

PPSHS caregivers like Gascho are available to help with housekeeping, personal hygiene and respite care, as well as transportation to and from doctor appointments or other outings.

THE REWARDS OF COMPANIONSHIP HELP BOTH CLIENTS AND CAREGIVERS AGE MORE GRACEFULLY, AND CAREGIVERS HELP MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR THOSE AGING AT HOME

10 | JULY 2021 |

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

“People shouldn’t have to quit their jobs to take care of their parents.”

PPSHS caregivers are active men and women who are carefully matched to the personality and needs of those requesting help. Some clients need assistance on a regular basis while others

LIFE AFTER 50 Gascho also makes the bed, picks up Cericalo’s room, does some laundry and assists him with his prosthetic leg.

“I don’t have the responsibilities of nursing. I just enjoy the fact that I can just help out,” said Gascho.

Cericalo likes the fact that Gascho is a retired nurse.

“She’s very efficient and very organized. She does what I’m thinking before I even think about it,” he said.

Jill Benson, another PPSHS caregiver, has been a caregiver for more than 28 years. Even though the 51-year-old has only visited with Marnette Isbell since September, the two have grown very close.

“Jill is right around my kids’ ages,” said Isbell, 81. “So, she’s mine…I hate to tell her mother.”

Isbell taught first-graders for 35 years before she retired. These days, she contends with a list of health issues in addition to her husband Thomas’ dementia.

Benson provides a ton of care and companionship. She travels to Isbell’s Monument home three days a week to make the bed, do laundry, cook dinner, clean the house and make sure Isbell takes her meds.

“We also go on outings to get our hair done on Fridays and shop,” Benson said.

In return, Isbell offers endless sweet sentiments about Benson. When asked if they’ve

Above: Jill Benson, right, helps prepare food for Marnette Isbell, left, during one of her visits.

Right: Retired psychiatric nurse Bobbi Gascho has been caring for Carmen Cerricalo for the past four years.

become good friends, they look at one another and say, “We’re family.”

“She walks in and takes care of business,” said Isbell. “Sometimes I have to stop her and get her to sit and have coffee with me.”

For Benson, this relationship makes work enjoyable.

“Marnette has just been my savior,” Benson added.

A LITTLE HELP FROM FRIENDS While independent seniors often find it difficult to accept assistance, they’re usually more open to the idea once they know they’ll be receiving care from a fellow senior.

In a two- or three-hour visit, PPSHS caregivers can provide much-needed companionship while also tending to a variety of tasks.

With a client base of roughly 50 people, Mc-

Suzanne McGregor started Pikes Peak Seniors Helping Seniors after taking care of her mother and seeing the challenges seniors face.

Gregor takes advantage of her smaller operation to conduct her own client assessments before matching them with a compatible caregiver.

With PPSHS, caregivers add meaning to their life while enjoying a flexible schedule and earning extra income. A caring attitude and the ability to relate to the challenges posed by aging are most important. Caregivers are carefully screened, undergo background checks and personality evaluations.

To request help or learn more about being a caregiver, call Pikes Peak Seniors Helping Seniors at 719-629-7725 or visit www.pikespeaksenior care.com. ■

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 |

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I hate road trips with my husband. Help!

ASK THE OLD BAG

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 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

Enjoy new friends.

Or relaxing “me time.”

At MacKenzie Place, the day is always yours. With a variety of classes, activities, and social events, you can play as much or as little as you’d like. Our friendly staff plays friend-maker too, making sure all new residents

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 ■

find the social scene that works best for them.

ASK THE OLD BAG

1605 Elm Creek View | Colorado Springs, CO (719) 207-8691 | MacKenziePlaceColoradoSprings.com

ADVICE COLUMN FOR THE OVER 50 CROWD

BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK Send your questions to the Old Bag in care of Life After 50, or email her at LagmanCreswick@Gmail.com

There’s more to life at MacKenziePlaceColoradoSprings.com.

It’s More Than Retirement. It’s Five-Star Fun.

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | ASK THE OLD BAG |

13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Setting Fad diets can lead to bad breath

AFFORDABLE Assisted Living in a Scenic Setting AFFORDABLE Assisted Living in a Scenic

AFFORDABLE Assisted Living inAdvice a Scenic Setting from TV’s Bad Breath Guru

E Assisted Living in a Scenic Setting

F

ad diets gain popularity be-

AFFORDABLE LivingSetting in a Scenic Settingcause they let you shed pounds sisted LivingAssisted in a Scenic

quickly, but health experts warn they often come with side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, constipation and bad breath.

“Dehydration is the key symptom related to fad diets that can result in halitosis,” said California-based dentist and bacteriologist Dr. • ALL PRIVATE ROOMS & BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES • INDIVIDUAL HEAT & COOLING Living • ON-SITE & BARBERSHOP AFFORDABLE Assisted inSALON a Scenic Setting Harold Katz. “When you’re dehy• 24-HOUR CARE • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITH ALL AFFORDABLE Assisted Living in a Scenic Settingdrated, your body doesn’t produce THE COMFORTS OF HOME as much saliva. When you have less saliva, bacteria growth increases • ALL PRIVATE ROOMS & BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES and causes bad breath.”

HEAT & COOLING ON-SITE SALON & BARBERSHOP Known as the Bad Breath Guru Visit any of• INDIVIDUAL our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living•Centers!

• 24-HOUR CARE • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE ALL from WITH his numerous television Point of the Pines Gardens North Pointe Gardens THE COMFORTS OF HOME 330 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907 3777 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 appearances on “Good Morning (719) 545-6222 (719) 265-0030 America,” “Early Show” and “The Pueblo West Gardens Oakshire Common View,” Katz suggests a few things 960 E Saxony Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 2430 Oakshire Ln, Pueblo, CO 81001 (719) 924-8624 (719) 542-2223 worth knowing about fad diets and Visit any of our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living their Centers! effect on your breath: accoladelivingcenters.com - or - info@accoladelivingcenters.com OOMS &• ALL BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING PRIVATE ROOMS & BATHROOMS SERVICES • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES Point of the Pines Gardens North Pointe Gardens • Fasting.

When you fast or follow • INDIVIDUAL• HEAT &Elkton COOLING • CO ON-SITE AT & COOLING ON-SITE SALON & BARBERSHOP 330•PRIVATE Drive Colorado Springs, 80907 SALON & BARBERSHOP Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO SERVICES 81008 ALL ROOMS & BATHROOMS • 3777 HOUSEKEEPING a fad diet that focuses on con(719)ALL 545-6222 • 24-HOUR CARE (719) • FAMILY WITH 265-0030 • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITHATMOSPHERE ALL • INDIVIDUAL HEAT & COOLING • ON-SITE SALON THE COMFORTS OF HOME suming&a BARBERSHOP single food or beverage, THE COMFORTS OF HOME Pueblo West Gardens Oakshire Common you’reCOmore to become • 24-HOUR • 2430 FAMILY WITH ALL de960 E Saxony CARE Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 OakshireATMOSPHERE Ln, Pueblo, 81001 likely THE COMFORTS OF HOME hydrated.

“If you’re determined ( 719) 924-8624 (719) 542-2223 BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES LL PRIVATE • ALL ROOMS PRIVATE & BATHROOMS ROOMS & BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES SERVICES to continue fasting, just make OLING • ALL PRIVATE • ON-SITE SALON & BARBERSHOP ROOMS & BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES accoladelivingcenters.com or info@accoladelivingcenters.com sure you’re still drinking enough Visit any ofCOOLING our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living NDIVIDUAL •• INDIVIDUAL HEAT & HEAT COOLING • ON-SITE SALON • ON-SITE & BARBERSHOP SALONCenters! & BARBERSHOP ALL PRIVATE ROOMS &&BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES EPING SERVICES • INDIVIDUAL HEAT & COOLING • ON-SITE SALON & BARBERSHOP ur Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living Centers! water to stay hydrated every • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITH ALL INDIVIDUALCARE HEAT & COOLING • FAMILY • ON-SITE SALON &ATMOSPHERE BARBERSHOP 4-HOUR CARE ••24-HOUR 24-HOUR ATMOSPHERE • FAMILY WITH ALL WITH ALL • CARE • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITH ALL ALON & BARBERSHOP THE COMFORTS OF HOME • ALL of PRIVATE ROOMSGardens & BATHROOMS • HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES day,” Katz said.

Point theCARE Pines North Gardens THE•COMFORTS THE COMFORTS OFPointe HOME OF • 24-HOUR FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITH ALLHOME THE COMFORTS OF HOME 330•Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CONorth 80907 3777 Parker & Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 ines Gardens Pointe Gardens INDIVIDUAL HEAT & COOLING •THE ON-SITE SALON BARBERSHOP TMOSPHERE WITH ALL COMFORTS OF HOME (719) (OF 719) 265-0030 do Springs, COHOME 80907 3777 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 545-6222 FORTS • 24-HOUR CARE • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE WITH ALL • Ketosis. Ketosis is a low-carbo(719) 545-6222 0 THE COMFORTS OF HOME Pueblo West Gardens Oakshire Common hydrate, high-protein diet that Point of the Pines Gardens North Pointe Gardens 960 E Saxony Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 2430 Oakshire Ln, Pueblo, CO 81001 promises quick weight loss if Gardens Oakshire Common 330 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907 3777 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 ( 719) 924-8624 (719) 542-2223 any of our Pueblo orOakshire Colorado Springs Living Centers!Centers! o, CO 81007Visit 2430 Ln, Pueblo, CO 81001 Visit any of our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living Centers! you eat less than 20 grams of sit any Visit of our any Pueblo of our or Pueblo Colorado or Colorado Springs Living Springs Centers!

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Visit any of our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living Centers!

330 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907 3777 Pointe Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 Gardens intLiving of the Point Pines of Gardens the Pines Gardens North North Gardens Pointe to Environmental Nutrition. “It’s 330 Elkton DrivePueblo Colorado Springs,West CO 80907 Gardens 3777 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 Oakshire Common ardens North Gardens (719) 545-6222 Elkton Drive(330 Colorado Elkton Springs, Drive Colorado CO 80907 Springs, COPointe 80907 3777 Parker Blvd, 3777 Pueblo, Parker COBlvd, 81008Pueblo, CO 81008 265-0030 centers.com -265-0030 or - info@accoladelivingcenters.com (719) 545-6222 (719) 719) 960 E Saxony Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 Ln, you Pueblo, 81001 true that canCO lose weight CO 80907 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CONorth 81008 Point of the Pines3777 Gardens Pointe545-6222 Gardens 2430 Oakshire rth Pointe Gardens (719) 545-6222 (719) 19) 265-0030 (719) 265-0030 330 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907 3777 Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81008 ( 719) 924-8624 Pueblo West Gardens (719) 542-2223 Oakshire Common quickly through ketosis, which Pueblo Common Parker Blvd, Pueblo, CO West 81008 Gardens (719) 545-6222 Oakshire 960 EESaxony Dr, 2430Oakshire Oakshire Pueblo, 81001 (719) 545-6222 960 Saxony Dr,Pueblo, Pueblo, CO CO 81007 81007 ( 719) 265-0030 2430 Ln,Ln, Pueblo, COCO 81001 ueblo West Gardens West Gardens Oakshire Common Oakshire Common is the state your body goes into 9) 545-6222 (Pueblo 924-8624 (719)542-2223 542-2223 (719) 719) 924-8624 (719) E Saxony Dr,960 Pueblo, E Saxony CO 81007 Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 2430 Oakshire Ln, 2430 Pueblo, Oakshire CO 81001 Ln, Pueblo, CO 81001 when it doesn’t have enough Pueblo West Gardens Oakshire Common s Oakshire Common accoladelivingcenters.com or info@accoladelivingcenters.com 960 E Saxony Dr, Pueblo, CO 81007 (719) 924-8624 2430 Oakshire Ln, Pueblo, 19) 924-8624 2430 Oakshire Ln, Pueblo, CO 81001 (719) 542-2223 (719) 542-2223 kshire Common CO 81001 carbs to feed off of, but you’re or--info@accoladelivingcenters.com info@accoladelivingcenters.com accoladelivingcenters.com -- or Oakshire Ln,accoladelivingcenters.com 81001 (Pueblo, 719) CO 924-8624 (719) 542-2223 (719) 542-2223 not improving your health,” Katz 9) 542-2223 coladelivingcenters.com accoladelivingcenters.com or info@accoladelivingcenters.com or info@accoladelivingcenters.com said. “Plus, halitosis can occur as accoladelivingcenters.com - or - info@accoladelivingcenters.com a result of the chemicals released .com - or - info@accoladelivingcenters.com elivingcenters.com in the body to burn fat.”

RDABLE AFFORDABLE Assisted Assisted Living Living in a Scenic in a Scenic SettingSetting a Scenic Setting AFFORDABLE Assisted Living in a Scenic Setting

Visit any of our Pueblo or Colorado Springs Living Centers!

blo or Colorado Springs Living Centers!

14 | HEALTH & WELLNESS | JULY 2021 |

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WHEN YOU’RE DEHYDRATED, YOUR BODY DOESN’T PRODUCE AS MUCH SALIVA. WHEN YOU HAVE LESS SALIVA, BACTERIA GROWTH INCREASES AND CAUSES BAD BREATH. • Protein shakes. Some people attempt to lose weight by replacing meals with protein shakes.

While protein shakes can help reduce calories, which can lead to weight loss, if you replace too many regular meals with the shake, you end up missing out on the nutritional benefits of whole foods. “Protein and dairy can also cause your breath to smell,” Katz said. “You should brush your teeth and use an oral rinse right after you drink a protein shake, or at the very least drink some water afterward.”

Instead of relying on a fad diet to lose excess pounds, Katz suggested focusing on changing your lifestyle habits as a whole.

“If you exercise regularly and follow a well-balanced diet that’s loaded with nutrients from fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains, you can give your body the fuel it needs to thrive and maintain a healthy weight,” he said. “And your breath won’t be as likely to go rancid.”

Visit Katz’s website, www. therabreath.com, for a free online bad breath test and for advice on a sneaky way to tell someone they have halitosis. ■

DEAR PHARMACIST

What switches on the twitch?

D

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-

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. ■

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

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Contact Us Today: (719) 314-2327 or RMPace.org WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | HEALTH & WELLNESS |

15

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

Making Your Life Easier!

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

1833 N Circle Drive 80909 | (719) 632-4036 www.affordablemedmart.com 16 | LAUGHING MATTERS | JULY 2021 |

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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.”

ONE-LINERS

Submitted by John Neal I’m so old that I’ve actually dialed a rotary phone before, while listening to a Walkman, next to a black and white TV with aluminum foil on its rabbit ears!

Respite or Vacation Care

Are you a caregiver for an older loved one?

Whether you are a full-time or part-time helper, sometimes you need a break.

• Compassionate 24-hour assisted living care in a spacious home setting with stunning Pikes Peak views • Ambulatory memory impaired patients are our specialty • Respite care available in 3+ day increments

Call Jerilyn today at 719-265-3040 or 719-243-9560 or visit kayshomeawayfromhome.com

H O M E AWA Y FROM HOME L.L.C

THE BROADMOOR

is HIRING

When I die, I want my last words to be, “I left a million dollars under the…”

Two men knocked on my front door today asking if I’d donate to the new local pool. So I gave them a bottle of water. ■

Make Us

Become a Part of The Broadmoor Family.

With openings in housekeeping, culinary, groundskeeping, greenskeeping and more, we have the perfect fit for you.

send US your best jokes

Visit broadmoor.com/careers for more information and to book your interview today.

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | LAUGHING MATTERS | 21_197_HRAd_LifeAfter50_1/3pg.indd 1

17

5/14/21 12:54 PM

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

Better vision in the blink of an eye Pikes Peak Eye Care provides state-of-the-art care

By William J. Dagendesh

C

olorado residents seeking affordable, quality vision care need look no further than Pikes Peak Eye Care.

For nearly four decades, Pikes Peak Eye Care (PPEC) has provided both medical and routine eye care, offering a full range of eye health services to clients of all ages. This includes eye exams and vision tests, eye disease diagnosis and management.

Jason Jost, OD and Kristen Worthen, OD operate PPEC at 710 N. Circle Dr. in Colorado Springs.

Both optometrists understand all aspects of eye function and how diseases can affect vision. They listen to patients’ concerns, explain eye exam results and offer options.

They encourage patients to ask questions and share health information, as one’s health history can be crucial to diagnosing, treating and monitoring potential vision issues.

In addition to eye exams, doctors provide information on Lasik surgery and cataracts, as well as pre- and post-operative care.

Knowing how risk factors and aging

affect vision over time, they may prescribe corrective lenses, and specialize in contact lens fittings for those who have irregularly shaped eyes or Keratoconic. Additionally, they’re skilled in dry eye and glaucoma evaluation and treatment.

“We pledge to protect the quality of life for our patients by providing state-of-the-art care, the highest quality eyewear products and thorough patient education in a professional and friendly environment,” said Practice Administrator Amanda Lee. “We have top-of-theline diagnostic equipment to ensure proper care and treatment for all ages.”

Quality eye care can carry a costly price tag. For this reason, PPEC assists patients in finding alternatives in reducing costs.

PPEC accepts several insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, and works with local veterans organizations to provide hassle-free exams and treatment.

“We currently don’t have a separate military discount, but we accept Tricare Prime, Tricare Select, Tricare for Life, and work with the

KNOWING HOW RISK FACTORS AND AGING AFFECT VISION OVER TIME, THE OPTOMETRISTS AT PIKES PEAK EYE CARE MAY PRESCRIBE CORRECTIVE LENSES. THEY’RE SKILLED IN DRY EYE AND GLAUCOMA EVALUATION AND TREATMENT. Veterans Administration’s Community Care network so veterans get both their exams and eyewear at no cost through our facility without the hassle of driving to and waiting at VA facilities,” Lee said.

PPEC also partners with the local Lions Club to donate eyeglasses to the community.

“Even if you’re not a current patient, if you have old eyeglasses

lying around your house, bag them up and swing by. We’d be happy to donate them,” Lee said.

Pikes Peak Eye Care is open from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 719-632-1587 or visit www.pikespeakeyecare.com.

See the ad below for discounts on your first visit. ■

optometrist specializing in practice optometrist specializing infamily family practice JasonM. M.Jost Jost and Jason andAssociates Associates

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new patients receive a 20% Discount off off of when you you present this ad. new patients receive a 20% Discount ofmaterials materials when present this ad.

18 | BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT | JULY 2021 |

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

Sallie Foster, right, helps Baylie Trammell, left, get fitted for new glasses.

PET PAGE

7 questions to ask a cat sitter or boarding facility

G

oing on vacation? Take the time to find a good sitter or boarding facility for your cat while you’re away.

Life can get scary for cats when their family suddenly disappears.

Cats are creatures of habit, so keeping their environment as familiar as possible is the best way to keep them happy while you’re away.

CATS-ONLY BOARDING A cat-only facility is usually quieter and won’t have as many unfamiliar smells as a place that boards both dogs and cats. If you must board at a place with both, choose one where cat boarding and dog boarding are well separated.

Some cat boarding facilities offer many conveniences, such as transportation and live streaming webcams. They’re also committed to lowering your cat’s stress by making sure they stay on their same diet or medications. Plus, a licensed boarding facility has a working relationship with a veterinarian in case anything should happen.

The State of Colorado regulates pet boarding facilities, and for good reason. Avoid people who do unlicensed “boarding” in their homes.

Anything could happen to your cats in a private home. It can be the breeding ground for disease. Plus, placing your cats in an unfamiliar home with strangers and forcing them to live with animals they don’t know can be terrifying.

CAT SITTING AT HOME Many cats do better if left in their own homes because at least their environment doesn’t change when their people do. However, pet sitting is unregulated, so it’s important to make sure the person taking care of your cats is cat-friendly and has cat skills.

Get references before letting someone into your home, especially if you want overnight care. A quality pet-sitting business will have insurance and be bonded if they have employees.

Invite any potential cat sitter over to meet the cats before you leave and ask them these questions, (many of these apply to boarding facilities as well):

luxury cat boarding & grooming

Luxury Care When You’re Not There We provide an affordable, clean, quiet and spacious environment where cats can relax in peace in their elevated perches, nap in a sky box, explore their towering catwalks, or even just hide away in their private, floor to ceiling rooms.

• Luxury cat boarding in large, 8ft tall rooms • Expert cat grooming • In-home cat behavior consultations • Cat supplies and retail

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3. Supplement retirement income so your IRA will last longer just $27.00!

4. Obtain a Reverse Mortgage for purchase if you wish to downsize or move 3) What experience do you have • Nowith barking dogs will give you a new Bill Niehus A visit Bill Niehus giving medications or special Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer route to a better retirement!

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Direct: 719-650-2620 4) How will you know if it’s time to bniehus@fairwaymc.com 2460 W 26th Ave., Ste. C-185 Denver, CO 80211 take my cat to the vet?

4703 Centennial Blvd, Colorado Springs (Next to Marigold) 5) What is your favorite toy for 719-602-6081 www.kittycatology.com playing with cats?

6) How much time do you spend playing with them during each THE NEW visit?

Top Four Potential Benefits of Getting a Reverse Mortgage 7) Do you have certification in current mortgage 1. Eliminate your payment - establish a line of credit or receive monthly payments as long REVERSE MORTGAGE as you live in your home and pay taxes and insurance.

2. Bridge Medicare gap in early retirement between age 62 to 65 feline first aid?

3. Supplement retirement income so your IRA will last longer Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. Copyright©2015.

All rights reserved. Fairway is not affiliated with any govenment agencies.These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations should apply.

Regulated by the CO Division of Real Estate.

THE NEW REVERSE MORTGAGE

A visit withyouBill Niehus will give you Bill Niehus A visit with Bill Niehus will give a new Whether you take your Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer routecat to ato better retirement!

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403888 a new route to a better 4. Obtain a Reverse Mortgage for purchase if you wish to downsize or move

a boarding facility or hire a sitter, Direct: 719-650-2620 bniehus@fairwaymc.com 2460 W 26th Ave., Ste. C-185 always ask for references before Denver, CO 80211 entrusting your feline friend to someone you don’t know. ■

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. Copyright©2015.

All rights reserved. Fairway is not affiliated with any govenment agencies.These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations should apply.

Regulated by the CO Division of Real Estate.

Top Four Potential Benefits of Getting a Reverse Mortgage

BILL NIEHUS

THE NEW REVERSE MORTGAGE

1. Eliminate your current mortgage payment - establish a line of credit Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer or receive monthly payments as long as you live in your home and Top Four Benefits of Getting a Reverse Mortgage719-650-2620 payPotential taxes and insurance

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ASK MS. KITTY

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1. Eliminate your current mortgage payment - establish a line of credit or receive monthly payments as long bniehus@fairwaymc.com 2.Four Bridge Medicare gap in and early ageMortgage 62 to 65 asTop you live in yourPotential home and pay taxes insurance.

Benefits ofretirement Getting between a Reverse 2. Bridge Medicare gap in early retirement between age 62 to 65 1. Eliminate your current mortgage payment - establish a line of credit or receive monthly payments as long 3.

Supplement retirement income so your IRA will last longer 3. Supplement retirement income sotaxes yourand IRAinsurance. will last longer as you live in your home and pay 4. Obtain a Reverse Mortgage forretirement purchasebetween if you wish or move 2. Bridge Medicare gap in early age 62totodownsize 65

2460 W 26th Ave., Ste. C-185 Denver, CO 80211

4. Obtain a Reverse Mortgage for purchase if you wish to downsize A visit with BillMortgage Niehus will ifgive a new 4. Obtain Reverse for purchase you wishyou to downsize or moveBill Niehus NMLS # 403888 ora move Mortgage Loan Officer route to a with better 719-650-2620 Niehus A visit Billretirement!

Niehus will give you a new Bill Reverse NMLS # 403888 3. Supplement retirement income so your IRA will last longer

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Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer

NMLS # 403888 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877Direct: 719-650-2620 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. Copyright©2015.

699-0353. Copyright©2015.

All rights reserved.

Fairway not affiliated with any govenment materials are by HUD All rights reserved.

Fairway is not affiliated with anyisgovenment agencies.These materials are not fromagencies.These HUD or FHA and were not approved bniehus@fairwaymc.com Direct: 719-650-2620 Fairway Independent Mortgage (“Fairway”) 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 1-877-699-0353.

Copyright©2015. or a government agency.

This isCorporation not an offer to enterNMLS#2289. into an agreement.

Not all customers will53718, qualify.

Information, rates and programs are subject not from or FHA and were approved by HUD or government agency. is not an towere enter into anby HUD agreement.

All rights not reserved.

Fairway is not affiliated with anyagovenment agencies.These materialsThis are not from HUD oroffer FHA and not approved 2460 Wbniehus@fairwaymc.com 26th Ave., Ste.HUD C-185 to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations should apply. or a government agency. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject the COnotice.

Division of Realand Estate.

Regulated by 26th Ste. C-185 Denver,2460 CO W 80211 to change without Allrates products are subject to credit and property approval. restrictions and limitations shouldAll apply.

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Regulated by Denver, CO 80211 credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations should apply. Regulated by the CO Division of Real Estate.

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | PET PAGE |

19

ALIVE & DIGGING

Elmohr Iris Society’s Annual

rt Appraisals

100’s of Varieties, Colors and Sizes of Iris Rhizomes to Choose From!

For Insurance, Estates, Donations or Personal Knowledge

Friday, July 30 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Member of International Society of Appraisers

9a.m. to 3 p.m.

Call for an appointment

Saturday, July 31

719-260-1873

Spencer’s Lawn & Garden 1430 S. Tejon Street

Also available for light cleaning and repair of art and framing

Bring this ad for a

FREE

MYSTERY RHIZOME

Create shade with vertical gardening

O

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.

MIMIC FOREST CANOPY

with purchase!

Art Gallery of the Rockies

5039 N. Academy Blvd.

Union Square Shopping Center Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Go to Elmohr Iris Society on Facebook for shipment or pickup details.

For more information on the Elmohr Iris Society:

Fine Art & Conservation Custom Framing www.artgalleryoftherockies.com agr@artgalleryoftherockies.com

719-244-4133

9 OUT OF 10 9 OUT OF 10 CHIROPRACTORS AGREE. CHIROPRACTORS AGREE. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®

MEN AND A TRUCK ISISTWO BAD FOR BUSINESS. BAD FOR BUSINESS. ®

After all, more people are AfterTWO all, more letting MENpeople AND are A letting TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® do their moving TRUCK® do their moving than ever before. And why than ever before. And why not.not.

ForFor justjust a few a fewdollars dollars more than renting more than rentinga a truck andandtrying truck trying toto round roundup upallall your your friends to help, easifriends to help, it’sit’s easi-

Think like a forest

er to call TWO MEN AND A er to call TWO MEN AND A ®. Let us take care of TRUCK TRUCK®. Let us take care of everything. From packing everything. From packing to unpacking, every move to unpacking, every move can tailored toto meet meet can be be tailored your individual needs. your individual needs.

Plus, won’tcost costyou you Plus, itit won’t an andaaleg, leg,not not an arm arm and to mention mention your to yourback. back.

PRESENT THISCOUPON COUPONAND AND RECEIVE RECEIVE $25 PRESENT THIS $25OFF OFF BOXES & PACKING SUPPLIES WHEN YOU MOVE BOXES & PACKING SUPPLIES WHEN YOU MOVE WITH TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® WITH TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Call (719) 576-6683 for details

Call3220 (719) 576-6683 for details Fillmore Ridge Heights 3220 Fillmore RidgeCO Heights Colorado Springs, 80907 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 4 Hour Minimum Not valid with Any Other Discount

4 Hour Minimum Not valid with Any Other Discount

20 | HOME & GARDEN | JULY 2021 |

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

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! ■

SUMMER GARDEN CHECKLIST ❑ Hydrocooling 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 backyard ecosystem.

Which of These Costly Home Seller Mistakes Will You Make When You Sell Your Colorado Springs Home?

COLORADO SPRINGS - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money.

This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market.

As this report uncovers, most

Home Sellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable.

In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”.

To order a FREE Special Report,visit www.CostlyMistakesToAvoid.Info or to hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-855-922-3029 and enter ID#2000. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

This report is courtesy of First Realty Homestead USA Inc. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2021

Get established with one of our Health Care Providers at Agewell, where we focus on primary care for older adults We are pleased to announce that Katrina Grablin, PA-C has joined our practice and is now accepting new patients. She will provide primary health care to seniors. Patients age 60 and above are eligible.

• • • • •

The only area practice dedicated to Senior Health Care Friendly receptionists to answer your questions and get you scheduled Same day urgent appointments and 24-hr emergency On-Call Provider available Accessible facility for disabled, and convenient handicapped parking Behavioral Health Services offered on-site LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: Mike Kenny, PsyD • Whitney Pahl, NP • Lisa Foster, NP • Brad Bingham NP-C Paula Hardy, NP • Jeffrey Kulp,MD • Katrina Grablin, PA-C

ALIVE & DIGGING

BY PAIGE SLAUGHTER Send your questions to Paige in care of Life After 50, or email her directly at Paige@FruitionStudio.com

2350 International Circle, Colorado Springs

(719) 475-5065 • www.agewellmedical.com WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | HOME & GARDEN |

21

LIFE AFTER 50

“When Dignity is a Must, But Cost is a Factor”

We would like to thank you, our community family, for 20 years of loyalty and voting us “Best of Springs” 2010 - 2020

With many thanks to God and you, we hope to serve you for many years to come. ~ Jim and Paula Cappadona

The

Summer of Love

By Randal C. Hill

I Please call us for information and an appointment

(719) 520-1817 | www.cappadonafh.com

A general family dentistry practice with a long track •New Patients record for providing genuine Welcome and personalized care.

•General Dentistry

5770 Flintridge Dr. VICKERS & FLINTRIDGE

593-8701

Rings don’t fit because of arthritis?

WE CAN HELP! Come in and see the

“Cliq” Ring Solution

Calvin D. Utke, D.D.S. Kirsten L. Ziuchkovski D.D.S.

• New Patients Welcome • General Dentistry

5770 Flintridge Dr.

VICKERS & FLINTRIDGE

593-8701

FlintridgeDentalCare.com

22 | JULY 2021 |

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2616 W. Colorado Ave. #23 Under Jake and Telly’s Deck

719-475-7160

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

LIFE AFTER 50 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. ■

COVERAGE FOR THE THINGS YOU CARE FOR ■ Home insurance ■ Automobile insurance ■ Umbrella coverage

Jacob Morgan Your Local Agent 1255 LK PLZ DR STE 135 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906 JMORGAN2@FARMERSAGENT.COM

Call 719.576.2638 today!

We asked readers

Let me help you get the most value out of your insurance coverage.

Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.

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

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FAITH

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Does God have a plan for America?

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ur country’s first settlers felt God had a plan for this nation.

John Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts, said, “America is a city set on a hill, which would be a light to the whole world.”

Instead of aspiring to earthly greatness, men like Winthrop, William Bradford and George Washington—who were among our country’s first leaders—wanted to serve God’s people. God was able to use these men to mightily show the way of building this nation and being a light to the world.

AMERICA IS A CITY SET ON A HILL, WHICH WOULD BE A LIGHT TO THE WHOLE WORLD. When our country’s forefathers founded America, they felt their belief in God would guide their decisions for all generations of Americans. They believed their new nation would be the greatest nation in the world. They knew it wouldn’t be easy to defend the rights guaranteed in our Constitution, but they believed that all Americans would have equal rights and freedoms.

This is called the American Dream. This is God’s plan for America.

How many incredible blessings have been poured out on this nation? How much grace that covers this country is a direct result of the obedience and willingness of our forefathers to die to self and to live for others? Only God knows.

As I traveled across America this past year, I was pleased to see so many American flags flying in yards, on fences and bridges, and in businesses. I know things don’t look so good right now in our country, but rest assured that God still has His plan, which isn’t completed yet.

Just as our forefathers felt that God had a plan, so do many Americans today. ■

“I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see rays of ravishing light and glory.” - John Adams to his wife, Abigail, on the passing of the Declaration of Independence

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BY KAY OWEN-LARSON, PH.D Kay Owen-Larson is an ordained minister with Crossroads Ministries USA in Colorado Springs.

To learn more, visit www.CrossroadsUSA.org

TALKING DIGITAL

6 tips to keep you safe from internet bad guys I

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

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

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 LIfe After 50, or email him directly at AdamC@TalkingDigital.org

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25

LIFE AFTER 50

A rather expensive “free” gift card

By Arthur Vidro

I

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

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

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by NANCY NORMAN, LCSW

www.ourcloseconnections.com

Got a wild scam story?

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WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | MONEY & SCAMS |

27

LIFE AFTER 50

My love affair with Bob Ross

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By Arlyn Macdonald

I

’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 moth-

ers. 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 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.

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LIFE AFTER 50

I COULD SEE THE DARK SHADOWS AND THE LIGHT, AND WHY THEY WERE BOTH IMPORTANT— NOT ONLY IN PAINTINGS, BUT IN LIFE. “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.

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.

Eventually, I gained enough con-

“

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fidence 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

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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.” ■

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Lif

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CALENDAR 0 5

July 1

Fitness on the Green – Yoga

Head over to the Ute Pass Cultural Center’s Midland Pavilion with your water, sunscreen and yoga mat for an hour-long fitness yoga session.

5:30-6:30 p.m. | 210 E. Midland Ave., Woodland Park | $12 | 719-687-5225

July 3, 10, 17, , 24, 31

Fountain Community Market

Shop local produce and listen to live music at Metcalfe Park every Saturday through October 2. Guitarist Lawrence Shiroma performs from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on July 3 & 31.

8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | 618 E. Ohio Ave., Fountain | 719-358-0063

July 4

Fourth of July celebration at Rock Ledge Ranch

Old-Fashioned 4th of July

Enjoy live music, a beer garden, arts and crafts, and fire engine rides at Memorial Park in Woodland Park.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 200 N. Park St., Woodland Park | Free | 719-6875218

July 5 & 17

Virtual Genealogy Basics

Join The Pikes Peak Library District

Live acoustic music

Listen to folk, gospel and ballads by solo guitarist and trombonist Lawrence Shiroma while enjoying your favorite coffee beverage at Third Space Coffee.

3:30-5 p.m. | 5670 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs | Free

Hillside Gardens’ Summer Concert Series

Hillside Gardens offers an incredible mixture of local talent to enjoy every Wednesday night, in addition to food and drinks. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.

6-8:30 p.m. | 1006 S. Institute St., Colorado Springs | $10 | www. hillsidegardensandevents.com for an introduction to basic genealogy research. Register in advance.

10 a.m. | www.ppld.org | 719-3898968

July 6

Rock Ledge Ranch offers a patriotic celebration full of reenactments, educational activities, food, patriotic music and carnival games.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. | 3105 Gateway Road, Colorado Springs | $8, free for members | www.rockledgeranch. com | 719-578-6777

July 4

July 10 & 24

July 7, 14, 21, 28

Fountain Valley Senior Center reopening

Fountain Valley Senior Center welcomes back seniors in two separate sessions. Masks are mandatory for non-vaccinated individuals and there will be a symptom and health screening upon entering the building. No lunches will be served.

8:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-4 p.m. | 5745 Southmoor Dr., Fountain | www. fvscenter.org | 719-600-2644

July 6, 13, 20, 27

Food Truck Tuesdays

Enjoy a tasty lunch from a variety of local food trucks at the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum every Tuesday on the museum’s west lawn.

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | 215 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs | Free | www. cspm.org | 719-385-5990

Happy Feet

July 10-11

Life of Bach: A Musical Journey

July 8

Virtual Lunch & Learn: Don’t get scammed!

Learn about the latest fraud and scams targeting older adults and tips on how to detect, report and protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming a victim. Registration required. Go online to register.

12-1 p.m. | Free | www.ppacg.org/ events

July 10

Thunder in the Valley Car Show

Car enthusiasts can view a variety of classic cars at Metcalfe Park, as well as enjoy food, music and fun.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 704 Ohio Ave., Fountain | www.thunderinthevalleyshow. com | 719-645-0053

July 10

Water Lantern Festival

Design your lantern and later launch it that evening over Memorial Park’s Prospect Lake.

5 a.m.-9:30 p.m. | 280 S. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs | $46-$56 | www.waterlanternfestival.com

Simon Jacobs takes you on a tour of Bach’s homes and churches using Google Earth while enjoying live performances by the musicians of Parish House Baroque.

7 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday | 1515 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs | $15-$20 | www. parishhousebaroque.org

July 13

Dine & Discover

Climb aboard a cruise ship on land for a brief presentation that highlights an all-inclusive lifestyle at Aspen Trail Retirement. Dinner provided. Register by July 10.

5 p.m. | 5455 New Car Dr. | Free | 719-266-2989 | www.aspentrail retirement.com

July 14

Intro to Remote Control Flying

All are welcome to this drop-in event to learn about remote control flying drones, planes and gliders, and where to fly them in El Paso County.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Pikes Peak Remote Control Club House | www. elpasocountynaturecenters.com | 719-520-6977

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July 14-15

July 15

July 22

Maxi’s Dance Group presents Lone Wolf performing live at Eagles Lodge #143. Bar is open and food is available at 5:30 p.m.

6-9 p.m. | 1050 S. 21st St., Colorado Springs | $5 members, $8 nonmembers | 719-660-1358

Shake, rattle and roll to live music at Aspen Trail Retirement, complete with lunch, classic malts and shakes.

RSVP by July 19.

11 a.m. | 5455 New Car Dr. | Free | 719-266-2989 | www.aspentrail retirement.com

Lone Wolf Live

July 16-17

ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience

Night Sky Photography Workshop

Mike Pach guides an overnight workshop giving pointers on how to photograph the Milky Way and star trails, and process your paintings on Photoshop and Lightroom. Limited to 6 participants. Call to register or visit the website.

9 p.m.-7 a.m. | 29950 Paint Mines Road, Calhan | $250 | www.3peaksphoto.com/ paintminesworkshops.html | 719-520-6388

Get rocking with one of the most exacting Zeppelin tribute bands at the Stargazers Theatre. Doors open at 6 p.m.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive, Colorado Springs | $20-$25 | www. stargazerstheatre.com | 719-4762200

July 16-18

Springs Home & Patio Show

Upgrade your indoor and outdoor living spaces with a variety of local and national vendors in home, outdoor living, décor, DIY and more!

See website for times.

12 p.m. | 3960 Palmer Park Blvd., Colorado Springs | Free | www. thespringshomeshow.com | 303867-0808

July 14, 21, 22, 28, 29

July 17

Head to Bear Creek Regional Park on Wednesdays and to Fox Run Regional Park on select Thursdays to enjoy live music. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.

6-8 p.m. | Free | www.elpasocounty naturecenters.com

Explore a variety of books and more for sale through the Friends of the Pikes Peak Library District.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. | 1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colorado Springs | Free | www. ppld.org | 719-389-8968

Concerts in the Park

Book Sale

Sock Hop

FOR NOW FOR LATER FOR GENERATIONS

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July 25

Fiddle, Vittles & Vino

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site hosts a day filled with food, drink and plenty of fiddles.

5:30 a.m-9 p.m. | 3105 Gateway Road, Colorado Springs | www. rockledgeranch.com | 719-578-6777

July 23-25

Vintage Market Days

This vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market features original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, decor, handmade treasures and more at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road, Colorado Springs | $15 | www.vintagemarketdays.com

July 26

Techniques for Making Jam

This in-person class teaches how to make and preserve flavorful jams, including water-bath canning basics.

12 p.m. | 8010 Severy Road, Cascade | Free | www.ppld.org | 719-3898968

July 24

Colorado Brewery Running Series

July 30-31

This 5K starts and ends at Red Leg

Iris Sale

Elmohr Iris Society’s annual sale at Spencer’s Lawn & Garden features hundreds of varieties, colors and sizes of Iris Rhizomes. See their ad on page 20 for a special offer.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Saturday | 1430 S. Tejon St. | 719244-4133

July 24 Cash’d Out: Johnny Cash Tribute

This San Diego-based band channels Johnny Cash in about as close a manner to the real thing as it gets. Doors open at 6 p.m.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive, Colorado Springs | $20-$25 | www.stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

July 31

Cornhole Classic Tournament

The Ute Pass Cultural Center hosts an outdoor cornhole tournament.

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Woodland Park | $100/team | 719-687-5225 ■

Events@LaFifty.com

Help for All Seniors The documentary of your life

Brewing Company and receive a free craft brew at the finish line.

10 a.m. | 2323 Garden of the Gods Road, Colorado Springs | $30 | www.breweryrunningseries.com

• • • • • • • • • •

Reserve & Ride Companionship Thrift Store Food Pantry Medical POA Guardianship Behavioral Health Connections Cafe Case Management Home Delivered Meals & More!

Silver Line:

719-884-2300 SILVERKEY.ORG WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | CALENDAR |

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CALENDAR 50 50 FUN AFTER Montrose & Delta

5745 Southmoor Dr. Fountain

1514 N. Hancock Ave., Colorado Springs To register for classes, call 719-955-3400 or visit www.csseniorcenter.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Our Solar System: A Tour of the Planets 1-2:30 p.m. | July 6 | $5

Headin’ Out West

1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 23 | $3

Newcomers Orientation 1-2 p.m. | July 29 | Free

Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” 2-4 p.m. | July 30 | Free

ART The Creative Sketchbook 9-11 a.m. | Thursdays | $47

EXERCISE Line Dance I

9-10 a.m. | Fridays | $35

Fly Swatter Volleyball

1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 20 | Free

HEALTH Medicare & Medicaid: What should I know?

plan that fits your needs. Give me a call to:

Advanced Acrylics

Take the confusion out of Medicare

help comparing plans 9-11 a.m. | Fridays Get | $53

The Real Pirates of the Caribbean 10-11 a.m. | July 20 | $5

Living History: Theodore Roosevelt 1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 27 | $5

VIRTUAL CLASSES

1-2 p.m. | July 28 | Free

Truth in Transitions

10-11 a.m. | July 7 | Free

1-3 p.m. | Mondays | $20

Using Technology to Stay Connected

The following classes are offered virtually Learn to Play Chess

1-2:30 p.m. | Thursdays | Free

Advanced Acrylics

9-11 a.m. | Fridays | $53

Advanced Drawing

11 a.m.-12 p.m. | July 14 | Free

Healthy Living for your Brain & Body

Oil Painting Made Easy

Scams, Schemes & Scum: How to not become a victim

Omegas Oh My!

Receive one-on-one service Make switching plans easier

9-11 a.m. | Fridays | $47

I’m Kathleen Graberg, a licensed sales representative in Colorado.

1-2:30 p.m. | July 15 | Free 9-11:30 a.m. | Tuesdays | $47 When it comes to Medicare, one size definitely does not fit all. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best

The senior center will open in two phases with two daily sessions in July.

Morning Session

8:30-11:30 a.m. | Daily

Afternoon Session

The facility will be closed from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for cleaning and sanitizing.

Nurse Chats: Normal Aging

LIFELONG LEARNING

www.fvscenter.org

1-4 p.m. | Daily

1-2:30 p.m. | July 22 | Free

Answers to your Medicare questions.

Drawing & Painting Exotic The Geography of Human Take advantage of it.

Birds Diets I can help answer your Medicare questions, so you 1-3 p.m. | Thursdays | $46 Medicare Advantage can find the UnitedHealthcare

To register for classes, call 719-600-2644 or visit

9:30-11 a.m. | July 14 | Free 1-2 p.m. | July 21 | Free

Guidelines are: • Masks and social distancing are mandatory for nonvaccinated individuals; optional for those vaccinated.

• Symptom/health screening when entering the building • One door to enter (main entrance) • Sign-in sheet for COVID tracing

fit for you. And what met your needs last year might not be the best fit this year. Take advantage of this time to explore your Medicare choices so you can enroll in a plan with confidence. I’m here to help. I know the ins and outs of Medicare.

And I know how to make it easier for you to understand, as well.

Go ahead, take advantage.

Kathleen Graberg

Licensed Sales Representative

Answers to your Medicare questions.

Take advantage of it.

719-460-7580, TTY 711

UHCMedicareSolutions.com

can help answer your Medicare questions, so you Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company one of can its affiliated companies, Medicare Advantage II can help answer your Medicare questions, so oryou find theaUnited organization with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. can find the UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Healthcare Medicare Advantage plan that fits your needs.

Y0066_190604_095141_C SPRJ48530 plan that fits your needs.

Give me a call to: Give me a call to: • Take the confusion out of Medicare Take the confusion out of Medicare • Get help comparing plans Get help comparing plans • Receive one-on-one service • Make switching plans easier Receive one-on-one service

Kathleen Graberg Make switching plans easier

Licensed Sales Representative

719-460-7580, TTY 711 UHCMedicareSolutions.com

Graberg, sales representative in Colorado. | WWW.LAFIFTY.COM 32I’m| Kathleen FUN AFTER 50 a |licensed JULY 2021

When it comes to Medicare, one size definitely does not fit all. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. And what met your needs last year might not be the best fit this year. Take advantage of this time to explore

Quality Assistance & Care At Home

Call for a Free Brochure

(719) 266-4799

• Housekeeping & Laundry • Meal Preparation • Personal Care Assistance • Caring Companionship • Transportation • Licensed & Insured • Local, Family Owned

www.GoodLifeSeniorCare.com Excellent Caregivers. Excellent Service.

Question

OF THE

Month

Compiled by Nancy M. Fuller

1628 W. Bijou St., Colorado Springs To register for programs,call 719-385-7920 or visit www.ourwestside.org

SPECIAL EVENTS

What musician or band would you see in concert that’s no longer alive/performing?

HEALTH VNA Foot Care Clinic

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Tuesdays biweekly

OTHER Bible Study

Tonia Gomez “I’d like to see George Jones and Joe Diffie. I like all the old country ‘twangy’ singers—they were good singers and performers.”

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Thursdays

Crafts Unlimited

9-11:30 a.m. | Fridays

Drive-In Movie Night: Raya & The Last Dragon

Movie starts at dusk | July 2 | Free

Drive-In Movie Night: Lion King

Movie starts at dusk | July 30 | Free

Grocery Bingo (Humana Program in a Box) 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. | July 21

EXERCISE SilverSneakers Classic

9-10 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | $5 if insurance doesn’t cover class

Pickleball

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays; 12-3 p.m.

Wednesdays; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Thursdays

Table Tennis

1-3:30 p.m. Mondays; 12-2 p.m.

Fridays

Beginner’s Line Dance 10-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Intermediate Line Dance

Blackrose Acoustic Jam Session July 1: Fiddle tunes July 8: Gospel July 12: Hootenanny July 15: Bluegrass July 22: Cowboy Campfire 6-8 p.m.

Shawn Fuller “I’d say Simon and Garfunkel because I kissed my first girlfriend at their concert. Hall and Oates would be good, too. I grew up in Berkshire County in western Massachusetts.

During my high school years we’d go to concerts at Tanglewood, home of the Boston Pops.”

FOOD Connection Café In-Person Lunch

Call to make a reservation.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Monday-Friday | 719-884-2300

Westside Cares Food Pantry 1-3 p.m. | Wednesdays

Colorado Pet Pantry

EJ Jackson “I’d like to see Lynyrd Skynyrd with the original band members. I grew up listening to country music but the Lynyrd Skynyrd band hit a good spot for me. I do miss music from the good old days.”

1-3 p.m. | 4th Wednesday

Mary Clark “Surfer beach bands like Dick Dale, The Beach Boys, The Ventures and Jan and Dean because their music was always fun. I enjoy the vibe of ‘beach music.’”

6-7 p.m Mondays; 2:30-4 p.m.

Fridays WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | FUN AFTER 50 |

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AgeWell welcomes new health care provider AgeWell Medical Associates is pleased to announce that Katrina Grablin, MSPAS, PA-C, has joined their health care team.

Grablin is a physician’s assistant who has spent the majority of her career in primary care

and internal medicine. Prior to joining the AgeWell staff, Grablin co-owned Bear Creek Family Medicine in southwest Colorado Springs, where she practiced independently for six years. She emphasizes patient education and shared decision-making. She recognizes that lifestyle changes must be desired by both patient and provider to be effective in producing better health. With the addition of Grablin, the AgeWell medical practice now has six primary care providers, including Jeffrey Kulp, MD; four Nurse Practitioners; and Dr. Mike Kenny, a behavioral health specialist.

Seniors age 60 and over are eligible for AgeWell services. For more information about AgeWell, call 719- 475-5065 or visit www. agewellmedical.com. New patients are always accepted.

Silver Key develops new affordable senior housing complex Silver Key will proceed with the development of an affordable senior living housing complex to be located at its 1625 S. Murray Blvd. campus. The board of directors gave its unanimous support to the effort and signaled that this would be the necessary next step in tackling the housing crisis. The refined development project plan will be finalized in fall/ winter 2021/2022. Additionally, Silver Key plans to submit a lowincome housing tax credit 9% application to Colorado Housing Finance Authority in February 2022. The community can begin to help the nonprofit’s efforts by creating awareness and support the project proactively throughout the community. For more information on how you can volunteer, contribute, or speak out for the seniors in the Pikes Peak region, visit www.silverkey.org.

34 | NEWS BITS | JULY 2021 |

Fountain Valley Senior Center reopening plan The Fountain Valley Senior Center, 5745 Southmoor Dr., will reopen in two phases with the following guidelines in place. In July, there will be two sessions daily. The morning session will be from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and the afternoon session will be from 1-4 p.m. The facility will be closed from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for cleaning and sanitizing.

• Masks and social distancing are mandatory for nonvaccinated individuals; optional for those vaccinated.

• Symptom/health screening when entering the building • Sign-in sheet for COVID tracing For more information, call 719-6002644 or visit www.fvscenter.org.

Property tax exemptions available to El Paso County seniors Eligible seniors could pay lower property taxes this year through

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

Colorado’s senior citizen and disabled veteran property tax exemption programs. For those who qualify, 50 percent of the first $200,000 in actual value is exempted from taxation.

The Senior Property Tax Exemption is available to property owners who: • Are at least 65 years of age prior to January 1 of the year of application, • Owned their home for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1, and • Occupied the home as their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1.

The deadline to apply is July 15.

Apply at assessor.elpasoco.com/ senior-property-tax-exemption Bear Creek Pickleball Courts now open El Paso County Parks (EPCP), in partnership with the Pikes Peak Pickleball Association (PPPA), are proud to announce the Bear Creek Pickleball Courts are open! With the help of PPPA, El Paso County Parks renovated four worn-down tennis courts into 12 modern outdoor pickleball courts. PPPA provided El Paso County with a funding amount of $100K and applied for an El Pomar grant for $20K which was also provided as part of the project funding. For more information, visit www.pikespeakpickleball.com or call 719-520-6403.

COS@150 History Stroll On July 31, 1871, the story of the City of Colorado Springs began.

A small group of people gathered near what is today the southeast corner of Cascade and Pikes Peak Avenues for a founding ceremony.

Over the past 150 years, the city grew and developed around that very spot where the first stake was driven. Venture to and around the

three historic downtown parks— Acacia, Antlers and Alamo—and explore stories of celebration, innovation and determination.

This outdoor tour is drawn from the Museum’s newest exhibit, COS@150, which features 150 objects, illuminating 150 stories, commemorating 150 years. Tickets are $5 per person. Each stroll is limited to 10 guests. To reserve your spot, purchase tickets at give. cspm.org/cos150stroll or call 719385-5990. Tour takes place from 10-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, July 10 and 24.

Pikes Peak Library senior events Some programs are presented virtually and most require registration.

Visit www.ppld.org or call 719-3898968 for more information.

• July 1 & 15, 10 a.m. - Virtual Hooked on Crochet (via Zoom) • July 5 & 17, 10 a.m. - Virtual Genealogy Basics • July 8, 12 p.m. - Virtual presentation on Medicare scams • July 8, 6 p.m. - Then & Now: Colorado Springs at 150 exhibit opening at Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colorado Springs • July 10, 2 p.m. - “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at George Fellows Park, 5550 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs • July 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. - Friends of the Library Book Sale at The Venue at Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colorado Springs • July 24, 10 a.m. - Virtual presentation: Pikes Peak Regional History Symposium • This year’s program is the third of four separate virtual events.

Next one is August 28.

• July 26, 12 p.m. - Techniques for Making Jam at Ute Pass Library, 8010 Severy Road, Cascade ■

Send news and announcements to Info@LaFifty.com

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CALENDAR GROUPS 50 SUPPORT Montrose & Delta

Saturday (in person) | www.coloradoga.org

Daddy’s Little Girls brings hope to abuse survivors through the love of Jesus Christ.

719-649-9054 | www.daddyslittlegirls.net

Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Colorado Springs provides free, confidential support for people living with or family and friends affected by mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.

Meets virtually.

719-477-1515 | www.dbsacoloradosprings.org Emotions Anonymous, a positive program for unsolved emotional problems, meets in Colorado Springs at First Lutheran Church, 1515 N. Cascade, on Mondays, and at First Presbyterian Church, 105 N. Weber, on Thursdays.

6 p.m. Mondays; 2 p.m. Thursdays | 719-685-1091 (Monday); 719-3381878 (Thursday)

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren supports and encourages those dealing with issues of raising grandkids. Call for details.

719-578-8007 Hearing Loss Association of America meets virtually. www.hlaacoloradosprings.org Mental Illness Family Support for those with mentally ill family members, meets at the First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave. in Colorado Springs Tuesdays | 7 p.m. | 719-473-8477 Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Southern Colorado meets virtually.

Visit website for complete schedule.

719-633-4603 | www.msasoco.org/ event-calendar.html | support@ msasoco.org

Falcon Senior Services meets at Patriot High School, 11990 Swingline Road in Falcon.

2nd Wednesday | 11 a.m. | 719-494-0353 Gamblers Anonymous meets virtually via Zoom and in person at the Red Cloud Serenity Club, 10400 Ute Pass Ave. in Green Mountain Falls.

6 p.m. Mondays (virtual); 9 a.m.

SUPPORT GROUPS

NAMI Connection Support for those living with mental illness, regardless of diagnosis, meets virtually via Zoom.

Tuesdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 719-4738477 | www.namicoloradosprings. org NAMI Family Support Group for those with family members living with mental illness, meets virtually via Zoom.

Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 719-4738477 | www.namicoloradosprings. org Overeaters Anonymous meets virtually over Zoom. Visit website for meeting times.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays | www.oasoutherncolorado. org/oa-meetings

Polio Survivors Support Group meets regularly. Call for date, time and location.

303-212-0017 PTSD Spouse’s Support meets at UCCS Veteran’s Clinic, 4863 N. Nevada, No. 380, Colorado Springs.

Tuesdays | 4 p.m. | 719-255-8003

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at First Presbyterian Church, 105 N. Weber St. in Colorado Springs 2nd Saturdays | 10 a.m.

TESSA provides a safe house and counseling for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. If you’re in crisis, call 719-633-3819.

719-633-1462

Project Angel Heart delivers free, nutritious meals to those living with life-threatening illness. Call for information about receiving meals.

800-381-5612

Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group meets virtually through The Independence Center.

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-471-8181 ■

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

The Voice of Adults 50+ in the Pikes Peak Region

Email:

Info@LaFifty.com

Call: 719-900-7664 *Subject to space availability

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | SUPPORT GROUPS |

35

FUN & GAMES

ADD SOME

TO YOUR BOTTOM LINE by advertising here in Fun & Games

Call 719-900-7664 36 | FUN & GAMES | JULY 2021 |

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CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Cold mold 6. Jr.’s exam 10. Former name of Thailand 14. Committee head 15. Overdue 16. ___ way (not at all) 17. Fields of comedy 18. Bring home 19. Big Island bash 20. Orch. section 21. Domestic cat 23. Lofty nest 24. Silly 26. Sea eagles 27. Granular 29. Map within a map 31. Carefree outing 32. Thoughts 33. Actor McKellen 36. Informally 40. Old verb ending 41. Papal garment 42. Veinlike deposit 43. Influences 44. Leopardlike cat 46. Article of bedding 48. Jazzy Chick 49. Take ___ for the worse 50. Where Columbus was born

52. Painter Gerard ___ Borch 55. Exec’s note 56. To boot 57. Sheer fabric 59. Boyfriend 60. Make it to the end 61. Bert’s buddy 62. Places to stay 63. “Song of the South” song syllables 64. Royal DOWN 1. Plays a part 2. Ammo 3. Male head of

a family 4. “Rocky ___”(1982) 5. King Minos, for one 6. First-year cadet 7. Swedish auto 8. Give it ___ 9. Hamilton’s bill 10. Still 11. Accustom 12. Diarist Nin 13. Pouting grimace 22. ___ day now...

23. You ___ right!

25. Greek goddess of victory 26. Actor Morales 27. Sticky stuff

28. ___ and rave 29. Objects of devotion 30. Hawaiian goose 32. Noncommittal

SUDOKU

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33. Detaching 34. Designer Gucci 35. Russian no 37. Aftermath 38. Q.E.D. part 39. Peter Fonda

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WWW.LAFIFTY.COM | JULY 2021 | FUN & GAMES |

37

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS RATES

CAREGIVERS T.L.C. Home Health Care

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We are Licensed, Insured and Bonded Our Family is Your Family

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• Reliable transportation

• Engaging activities & outings

• Experienced, caring staff • Medicaid , VA & private pay

Call today for a FREE consultation!

(719) 785-9294 Info@DiscoverMyGoodwill.org 1460 Gard of the Gods Rd. Colorado Springs 80907

CAREGIVERS

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2-Hour to 24-Hour Care

(719) 502-5765

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T.L.C. Home Health Care Owner/Administrator Tonya Reynolds

tlchomehealthcare4u@gmail.com

EXPERIENCED PERSONAL CARE InHome Provider. Ready to help you with whatever your needs and wants are.

Kind, trustworthy and dependable.

Love to clean, too. References as required. Call Karen and let's talk.

719-434-2922.

COMPUTER & MEDIA

Aplus

To place your classified, call -243-8829 970

719-900-7664 x102 or submit online at

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

30 words or less per ad

Private Party $29 | Commercial $49 |

ADULT DAY SERVICES

To place your classified, call:

+$1 per word

COMPUTER & MEDIA FLAT RATE COMPUTER REPAIR. Most repairs start at $50. Parts extra if needed. Free pickup and delivery or up to 2 hours of on-site tune-up, virus removal and/or training. 35 Years of experience. Call Richard Sobe with SOBE I.T. 719-216-8994. Thank you for looking at my ad.

CEMETERY PLOTS

Care and Comfort During Life’s Difficult Moments LY CREMATIONS SIMP

1055

$

Direct Cremation

Medicaid & Private Pay Accepted

(719) 203-6022 Call for your Preneed Policy

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Computer Support

In-Home Care Services We Offer • Skilled healthcare • Transportation & personal support Services services • Services provided by • Medicare, Medicaid, VA, RN’s, CNA’s & Personal Insurance & Private Pay Care Providers

SOFTWARE Tune-Up, Clean-Up & Virus Removal CLASSES In-House, On-Site or Remote Full On-site Services Available by Appointment

(719) 785-9294

Info@DiscoverMyGoodwill.org 1460 Gard of the Gods Rd. Colorado Springs 80907

Always Hiring – Looking for Caregivers. Please apply. 719-5025765 / 719-492-2681. TLC Home Health Care, Colorado Springs.

38 | CLASSIFIEDS | JULY 2021 |

New, Used and Reconditioned Building Materials & Supplies Furniture and Appliances 411 S. Wahsatch | Colorado Springs (719) 667-0840 MON-SAT 9AM-5PM

Donations Accepted at South End of Building Mon-Sat 9:30am - 4:30pm

Computer Repair $40/hour (most jobs require 1 hour). Remove malware, install software, Wi-Fi. Free phone help after the service call. Jeff Towne 719-574-8505.

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

FOR SALE

WE’VE EXTENDED OUR HOURS ON SATURDAY TO SHOP at the allvolunteer Bargain Box thrift store, 405 S. Nevada Ave. We are open on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 10am-2pm, and now Saturday from 10am-4pm. Discover dozens of exceptional deals throughout the store. Your purchases support our community’s children and families through Assistance League of Colorado Springs’ multiple philanthropic programs. Thank you!

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

BANK ON

CLASSIFIEDS to turn your want ads into dollars!

Life After 50 Classifieds

Maxi’s Dance Group is back! Dance party every Thursday 6-9pm, Eagles Club 1050 S. 21st St. Music for ages 40+, food and drink available for purchase. $8 cover; $5 members.

719-660-1358.

HEALTH & FITNESS Home Delivered Meals

3033 N. Hancock Ave. (719) 599-7171

Call today for a FREE consultation!

Deadline is the

20th of Each Month

719-900-7664

All PC’s and Apple Devices REPAIRS Laptop, Desktop, Tablets & Phones

or submit at www.LaFifty.com

LIFT CHAIRS- comfortable and Safe, new and used, available with heat and massage, delivery services available.

Call Go Mobility for an appointment 719-203-4396 Mom's 2000 Ford Focus. 64,000 miles - original owner. 4 door, 5 speed-stick shift, air conditioned, nice, good condition, see to appreciate.

Great gift for grandchild. $2000. 719633-6988.

Convenient. Freshly prepared.

Make your life a little easier!

Choose from 3, 5, or 7 day meal plans.

Only $9.75 per meal delivered to your home at lunchtime by friendly volunteers that also do a check-in.

Anyone age 60+ can register for Silver Key Home Delivered Meals by calling 719-884-2370.

CLASSIFIEDS

HEALTH & FITNESS YOGA AFTER 50 @Who Gives a SCRAP community room @810 Arcturus Drive. Beginners welcome.

Tues/Thurs. Donation: $5/10.00. Info: Yogaforkindness2021@gmail.com or 512-626-0432.

HELP WANTED

Volunteer with Rocky Mountain PACE! Good Neighbors volunteer their time to check in on participants who need support beyond regular home visits.

Help others thrive today!

See more details at: www.rmpace.org/volunteer-with-us

Volunteer Today!

VOLUNTEER BE A DRIVING FORCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Interested in giving back to your community and having fun? VOLUNTEER WITH AARP Driver Safety – a program that helps older drivers stay safe on the road.* Sign up today to be an Instructor for our AARP Smart Driver Classroom course: • Training is easy and resources are 100% provided • No Special skills or AARP memberships required • Teach at least 3 courses a year, on your own schedule

BECOME A VOLUNTEER TODAY! For more information on becoming an AARP Smart Driver Course Instructor, visit www.aarp.org/driversafetyvolunteer

HELP WANTED

DRYWALL AND TILEWORK

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS ALLIANCE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS age 50 and older. You can make a difference in the MS Community. For more information, please call 719-633-4603.

VOLUNTEER AT SILVER KEY to help provide seniors with meals, rides, client support, food pantry support, and veterans support. Office staff and materials support also needed. Please apply online at: silverkey.org/ volunteer.

HOME REPAIR Dave’s Home Improvement All Kinds of Home Maintenance Repairs 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE U.S. NAVY VETERAN

(719) 393-5851

Ken’s Plumbing Heating & Cool Cooling ing - PLUMBING -

Leaky Pipes Fixed • Toilets or Faucets Replaced • Sprinklers Repaired

- HEATING -

Furnaces Replaced, Repaired or Tuned Up

- COOLING -

Air Conditioners or Swamp Coolers Installed or Repaired

Discount for Seniors & All Military* *Discount cannot be combined with other offers.

Repairs • Basement Finishes Kitchen or Bathroom Remodeling – Free Estimates –

Veteran Owned by Ken Rivenburgh

MORE THAN A HANDYMAN. Home Maintenance, Repairs, Yard Work & Organize. 20% SENIOR DISCOUNT (62+). Call Mike - a Senior and Veteran. 719-338-4279 Voice mail answered same day. I follow CDC Guidelines.

OXYGEN CONCENTRATORS, $600. with Warranty. We sell portable concentrators and oxygen supplies.

Equipment repair + servicing. ASPEN CONCENTRATOR REPAIR SERVICE, 3112 Century St. (off Fillmore) 719-471-9895.

REAL ESTATE

ANDERSON HOME REPAIR+REMODEL Expert handyman services, 40 years of quality work, carpentry, doors, trim, drywall, power washing, decks, painting, staining and more. Senior Discount. 719-331-4320.

YESTERDAY’S VALUES… VALUES… TODAY’S TECHNOLOGY!

HANDYMAN SERVICES. ODD JOBS Plumbing, Carpentry, Fences, Decks, Doors, and more. (Mowing or yardwork in the spring and summer.)

John 719-471-7471.

GOODMAN HANDYMAN. Decks, fences, electrical, tile, windows, doors, tub-to-shower, drywall, cabinets, plumbing - all jobs considered. How can I help you? Senior/Vets Discounts.

Call me first! Free advice - will save you money! 719-244-2871.

The o Tandem Tw Specializing in

Real Estate for Seniors

Judy Trout 719-332-8811

Eve Blackmon 719-231-4079

40 Years of Combined Real Estate Experience in Colorado Springs

HOUSECLEANING EXPERTISE HOUSECLEANING, reliable and trustworthy. Senior personal care services are also available. Please call Karen 719-434-2922.

INSURANCE SERVICES CHOOSE THE BEST HEALTHCARE Finding the right health insurance can be overwhelming. You need confidence that you're fully covered for medical and health, especially if you become seriously ill or injured. Licensed sales agent Bruce Schlabaugh will find the best plan to fit your budget, your needs and your lifestyle. To get started, call 719-7498541 (please leave message.)

We are Colorado Springs natives helping more than 900 seniors since 1988.

For All Your Residential, Commercial, Investment/Multi-Family Needs!

Give us a call! (719) 338-8110 BRENT DEMOS

Real Estate Broker/ Co-Founder

LIFT CHAIRS GIVE SAFETY & COMFORT in your home. Go from sitting to standing without aid. New and used lift chairs are for sale, available with heat and massage. Call Go Mobility for an appointment 719-203-4396. Delivery services available.

KIMBER DEMOS

Broker Associate

www.BrentDemos.com TheDemosTeam@gmail.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

CALL FOR A

FREE ESTIMATE

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

(719) 232-7218 or 390-7779

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

(719) 229-4563 FREELANCE WRITERS WANTED. Do you enjoy writing interesting and informative articles that relate to people 50 and older? Please send your letter and resume to: Cloie@ LaFifty.com. No phone calls please.

HOME REPAIR

6760 Corporate Drive #300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919

BEN IS BUYING HOUSES. If you would like a quick, no-hassle cash sale for your home in "as-is" condition and for a fair price, please text or call me so we can talk. Ben 719-492-1671.

Senior condo for sale. $130,000. 2BD, 2BA (Full). 1,072 sq. ft. All brick. 434 Valley Hi Circle, CS. Call owner, Bruce Veteto 719-332-1241.

List it. Sell it. Done.

719-900-7664, x102

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! y a d o t e b i r Subsc

SERVICES

Mov

SERVICES

ing

“You Can Relax Knowing Helping Hands Are On The Job!”

~ We’re Full-Service Movers ~ PACKING • ALL THE LIFTING MOVING • UNPACKING

(719) 661-7354 FREE ON-SITE ESTIMATES & SENIOR DISCOUNTS

3938 Maizeland Rd & Academy

S.C.S.E. SANDYS CARE SERVICE EXPRESS Specializing in same day, last minute, when available. Mail – bank – babysitting – shower – meals - dog feeding etc. Bonded, insured. 9am4pm, Monday-Friday. 719-203-8898.

DAILY LABOR. Janitorial, Gardening, yardwork, painting, cleaning gutters, whatever is on your honey-doo list. $20 per hour except for lawns. 719310-5247.

YES! I want to subscribe. name

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address ______________________________________________________ city

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phone number email

state ________ zip ___________

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exp. date_____________________________________ cvc

1 year $20.00

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2 years $30.00

YES! I want to share with a friend and save.* name

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1 year $20.00

2 years $30.00

*Discounted rate applies only when ordered in addition to a full-priced subscription

Call 719-900-7664, or mail form (along with check, if applicable) to:

LIFE AFTER 50 PO Box 50125, Colorado Springs, CO 80949

40 | CLASSIFIEDS | JULY 2021 |

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MEDICAL EQUIPMENT REPAIR for Lift Chairs, Scooters, or Wheelchairs. For prices and more information call Go Mobility 719-203-4396.

EXPERT CARPET REPAIRS 40 Yrs Experience. Repairs, Re-stretches, Seam Repair and Pet Damage Inlays.

719-229-1597 or 719-473-5110.

Free estimates and Senior discounts.

TREE REMOVAL, TREE TRIMMING and stump grinding. 24/7 Emergency Service available. Text or Call Ben's Landscaping 719-492-1671.

MAKE MORE LIVING SPACE! Yard, garage, house clean-outs. Hauling, lifting, moving and transport.

Affordable! 719-244-2871.

SENIORS LOVE HELPERS that arrive at the door! If you do heavy lifting, climb ladders, painting, cleaning, cooking, or hair care, place an ad in Life After 50. Readers are hunting for your services! 719-900-7664.

WANTED CASH FOR OLD BANKS AND TOYS, presidential pin back buttons, Simpich dolls, military insignia and memorabilia. Will buy single items or entire collections. 719-632-9904.

1950S-1960S LP’S, 78's AND 45’s.

Blues, jazz, rock 'n roll, country, Broadway, movie soundtracks, TV, R&B, soul, children’s, spoken word, etc. I'm a collector, not a business.

Call me first - I pay the most for your records. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288.

VINTAGE ITEMS WANTED. TOYS, comic books, children's books, dolls, movie and music posters, Halloween, guitars and amplifiers, and plastic model kits. I'm a collector, not a business. 719-633-5848 or 719440-9288.

CASH PAID. Antique firearms, ammunition, reloading supplies, military relics, uniforms, medals, insignia, swords, knives, bayonets, photos, anything unusual. Old toys, marbles, comics, coins. Gold, silver, costume jewelry- any country. Indian and old west relics. We pay cash.

Leasures, 2801 W. Colorado Ave. 719-439-4255.

TRAVEL

Travel Colorado with Liquid Arts Passport

Respite or Vacation Care

Are you a caregiver for an older loved one?

Discounted sips at wineries, breweries, distilleries and cideries

T

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

Pikes Peak Wonders

5-day pass: $10 90-day pass: $25 • Pass includes businesses in Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Salida • Taste your way through 10+ breweries, cideries, distilleries and wineries

Denver & Cities of the Rockies Pass

5-day pass: $30 90-day pass: $60 • Pass includes businesses in Denver, Boulder and Fort Collins • Enjoy deals and discounts to 60+ breweries, cideries, distilleries and wineries

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. ■

Whether you are a full-time or part-time helper, sometimes you need a break.

• Compassionate 24-hour assisted living care in a spacious home setting with stunning Pikes Peak views • Ambulatory memory impaired patients are our specialty • Respite care available in 3+ day increments

Call Jerilyn today at 719-265-3040 or 719-243-9560 or visit kayshomeawayfromhome.com

H O M E AWA Y FROM HOME L.L.C

THE BROADMOOR

is HIRING

Rockies Playground Pass 5-day pass: $10 90-day pass: $25 • Pass includes businesses in Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge and Glenwood Springs • Enjoy deals and discounts at 5 breweries, cideries, distilleries and wineries

Mountains & Mesas

5-day pass: $30 90-day pass: $60 • Pass includes businesses in Grand Junction, Durango and Montrose • Enjoy deals and discounts at 20+ wineries, cideries, distilleries and breweries

Become a Part of The Broadmoor Family.

With openings in housekeeping, culinary, groundskeeping, greenskeeping and more, we have the perfect fit for you.

Visit broadmoor.com/careers for more information and to book your interview today.

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5/14/21 12:54 PM

OPINION

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

Humana MarketPoint® Colorado Springs 719-532-7700, Ext. 0 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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

42 | OPINION | JULY 2021 |

WWW.LAFIFTY.COM

Do you need Social Security?

By Dr. Glenn Mollette

I

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 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.

CONNECTIONS Hearing loss shouldn’t keep you from connecting on the phone.

With a CapTel phone, it is easy to catch virtually every word. You see captions of your call, so you can always follow what is being said.

CapTel 2400i For use with high-speed Internet and telephone line.

CapTel 840 For use with analog telephone lines.

CapTel 880i Ideal for low vision.

For use with highspeed Internet and telephone line.

Order a CapTel phone, contact CTP (Communications Technology Program) Phone: 855-767-6128 (toll free) Email: tedp_ccdhh@state.co.us Website: relaycolorado.com/captel

* Available for Internet-based CapTel only.

FEDERAL LAW PROHIBITS ANYONE BUT REGISTERED USERS WITH HEARING LOSS FROM USING INTERNET PROTOCOL (IP) CAPTIONED TELEPHONES WITH THE CAPTIONS TURNED ON. IP Captioned Telephone Service may use a live operator. The operator generates captions of what the other party to the call says. These captions are then sent to your phone. There is a cost for each minute of captions generated, paid from a federally administered fund.

No cost is passed on to the CapTel user for using the service. CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.

LIGHT UP YOUR FUTURE ★ At Summit Glen ★

Last August, when my 96-year-old mom fell at the home she had lived in for 50 years, we realized she needed to move to an independent living community. When we visited Summit Glen, we knew we had found her new home! From the minute she moved in, she has felt precisely that way. Natalie, the community manager, promised us that they would treat mom like she was their mom, and they have fulfilled that promise every single day. Mom has a lovely apartment with a deck. We can’t believe how many of her precious things we were able to bring to that apartment. The storage is amazing! The building is beautiful and always clean. The food is delicious, and mom enjoys visiting with her many new friends at meals. Mom just loves everyone who works there from her housekeeper to the servers and the chef, the activities coordinator, and of course, the wonderful managers. We feel so blessed to have found the perfect home for mom at Summit Glen! ★ Nancy Daigle “The main reason I chose Summit Glen is for the access and interaction with the management team that you don’t get anywhere else. This community was also the best value. In the other communities I visited, you don’t seem to get that “touchy feely” family atmosphere and warmth that you get here. At Summit Glen there is a genuine concern for others that is unmatched. There is also more participation by residents in activities here which allows closeness as we get to know each other better. We hug, laugh, joke, and have an overall great time. To me, Summit Glen is excellent!” ★ Jim Maury “Moving here this past October was a little scary for me at first. This would be the first time I had ever lived alone, and the first time I had ever lived anywhere other than California.

But, this was the best decision I could make. Summit Glen has offered me not only the opportunity to make new friends, try new activities and have new experiences, but it has become the new home I never knew I could have. The staff is exceptional. From our managers to the wait staff and housekeeping staff, everyone is attentive, kind and exceptional at what they do. Every day they make me feel like family. The residents are friendly and supportive and have all helped me feel welcome. Making new friends has become a daily thing, not just an occasional pleasure. I look forward to many more years here at Summit Glen.” ★ Harley May Maas

719-380-1409

© 2021 HSL

For more information or to schedule a personal visit, please call 4825 Old Farm Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80917