March 2020 - Mesa County by BEACON Senior News

The Voice of Adults 50+ in Mesa County

MARCH 2020

OK, BOOMER

How to bridge the generation gap Volunteer of the Year voting is now open! Read more about our 2020 nominees inside!

Ballot inside, or go vote online! www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Clothing Exchange Parties: Itâ€™s the new thrifting

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Arturo Sandoval 10 Time Grammy Award Winner

Cuban-American trumpet virtuoso and protégé of Dizzy Gillespie Presidential Medal of Freedom Hispanic Heritage Award 6 time Billboard Award Winner Emmy Award Winner Don’t miss this Cuban legend and his dynamic 6-piece band!

The Historic

AVALON THEATRE Sunday, March 29th at 7:30 pm Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or avalontheatregj.com and at Avalon Box Office 970-263-5757 ANOTHER SINGER & SIMPSON PRODUCTION

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Arturo Sandoval: Virtuoso

trumpeter to perform at Avalon

uban trumpeter and 10-time Grammy Award winner Arturo Sandoval started his musical career at age 12 as a street musician on the outskirts of Havana. He taught himself to play piano and percussion, but found that his greatest passion was for the trumpet. In May 1977, Sandoval was waiting at the landing dock as the first American cruise ship since the 1961 Cuban missile crisis was allowed to enter Havana Harbor for a two-day visit. Several musicians were on the jazz cruise including Stan Getz, Earl “Fatha” Hines and Dizzy Gillespie. One of the band members spoke Spanish and asked 27-year-old Sandoval what he wanted. He said he just wanted to be of service. To which Gillespie responded, “Does he have a car?” Sandoval, who couldn’t speak a word of English, became Gillespie’s driver for the day. He took him to places where he could listen to music and meet other musicians. He never told him that Gillespie was his hero, or that he could play. That evening, the government had employed Sandoval’s band, Irakere, to entertain and welcome the American musicians. Gillespie was astonished when he heard Sandoval play. It was the beginning of a long mentor-protégé musical relationship and father-son friendship.

AMERICA BOUND Sandoval’s first trip to America took him to Carnegie Hall where his band was scheduled to perform. Columbia Records had signed Irakere to a recording contract after they’d received a Grammy for Best Latin Album in 1978. Backstage, he met jazz legend Maynard Ferguson, who gave him his horn after noticing that Sandoval’s was falling apart. A few days later, Gillespie gave him one of his

trumpets as well. Sandoval was in heaven. He knew then that America was where he wanted to live.

HIS MUSICAL LEGACY Gillespie called Sandoval one of the greatest musicians he’d ever heard. Sandoval won an Emmy for the music he composed for the HBO movie about his life, “For Love or Country” (2000), starring Andy Garcia. The film is the story of Sandoval’s life up to his defection to the U.S. “Like Dizzy, Arturo is a man of true genius—not only with his horn but also as an accomplished pianist, arranger and composer,” Garcia said. Sandoval has composed music scores for numerous movies, including Clint Eastwood’s “The Mule” and “Richard Jewell.” Sandoval was commissioned by The Kennedy Center to compose a ballet. He’s also written a trumpet concerto that he performed and recorded with the London Symphony. Sandoval has performed at the Super Bowl and the White House. In 2013, he received the Presidential Medal of Honor. Sandoval currently resides in Miami where he is a professor at Florida International University. Like Gillespie, Sandoval is a true virtuoso. He’s also funny, personable and downright irresistible as he banters with the audience and leads his six-piece band. Don’t miss Sandoval perform at the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction on Sunday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $49. Purchase your tickets at the Avalon Box Office by calling 2635757, at www.avalontheatregj.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Caution: These are the ONLY authorized ticket sellers. Be wary of scammers! ■

EDITOR'S COLUMN National & Regional Award-Winning Publication March 2020 | Volume 33 | Issue 3

Publisher Kevin K. VanGundy Founding Publisher Susan Capps Managing Editor Cloie Sandlin Multimedia Editor Lauren Berg Graphic Designers Chrissy Martin B. Bigler Office Manager Stacey Splude Advertising Executives Sue Bowen Debra Romaniec Siggie Carpenter Melodie Simon Proofreader Jan Weeks Delivery Cora Gentry Lauren VanGundy JR Milner

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

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Email:

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com

The media says we can’t be friends

ou may have heard about the “Ok, Boomer” meme that’s being thrown around by my generation (Gen Y, aka Millennials). According to The New York Times, “Ok Boomer” marks the end of friendly generational relations with Gen Y and Z, who use it to mock and blame Boomers for their economical and societal woes. Although this trend has received significant media attention nationally, it’s not at all new. Younger generations use it in retaliation to insults directed at them for their inexperience and perceived laziness, but even Boomers can attest to feeling frustrated and being belittled by their predecessors. (“Never trust anyone over 30?”) Melanie Wiseman, the reporter who wrote this month’s story, is a Boomer. We’re generations apart, but we’re also great friends! Just because the media says this trend is dividing generations doesn’t mean it’s true. In polling my Facebook friends about what they thought about “Ok, Boomer,” the majority said it was rude, disrespectful and juvenile. All generations have something we can learn from each other. Respect goes both ways—the least we can do is embrace communication and show respect for others’ opinions, even if we disagree.

The BEACON is published at the beginning of the month. Our goal is to inform and inspire the 50+ community in Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

WRITE A WILL MONTH Tax season is here, which is a good reminder to start thinking about your will. Not sure where to start? Register for one of three free Write a Will Month seminars at Mesa County Libraries in March. See page 20 for a list of dates and times.

VOTE FOR VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR The volunteers featured on the center spread have been nominated for the BEACON’s 2020 Volunteer of the Year award. Make sure to read their stories and visit www.BeaconSeniorNews. com to vote for your favorite! The last day to vote online is April 12.

FOOD AND FUN AT BEACONFEST! All of the nominated volunteers will be recognized at BeaconFest Boomer and Senior Fair on Thursday, April 16. Don’t miss the biggest party of the year from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Two Rivers Convention Center. There will be delicious food, lively entertainment, informational booths and seminars. Plus, admission is FREE!

WIN DOOBIE BROTHERS TICKETS The Doobie Brothers are coming to Denver’s Pepsi Center on August 30 for their 50th anniversary tour, and the BEACON is giving away a pair of tickets to one lucky reader! Fill out the entry form on page 36 and bring it with you to BeaconFest. Stick around for the drawing at the end of the show. You must be present to win. ■

Do you know Ellen Roberts? If you’re from Fruita or have attended BeaconFest, it’s likely that you do. Read more about this farm girl-turned-showgirl on page 32.

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. © Copyright 2020 • All Rights Reserved

Cloie Sandlin, Managing Editor

IN THIS ISSUE...

Cover Photo: Olivia VanGundy, right, and Carolyn Bentley, left, demonstrate generational tensions between Boomers and Millennials/ Gen Z, which sparked the “Ok, Boomer” meme. Photo by B. Bigler

14 24

The medical merry-go-round If you feel like you’re health care journey is going in circles, you’re not alone. Meet Ellen Roberts From farm girl to show girl, this 99-year-old is still kicking it on the dance floor.

20 29

How to write your will We’ll help you communicate your wishes with these ins and outs of will writing. You have no privacy Our tech columnist’s advice? Get over it.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | EDITOR'S COLUMN |

COVER STORY

“OK, BOOMER”

By Melanie Wiseman

was dumbfounded when Social Security came up in casual conversation and my 36-year-old niece sarcastically interjected, “You’re welcome.” Translation: She feels she’ll never see it and I’ll be living on her dime. I was taken aback by her sharp, phantom finger-pointing, but I still listened with empathy as she talked about her ample college debt and the high cost of housing and health insurance. Was she actually insinuating they were my fault? I didn’t know where it was coming from then, but I get it now.

Boom generation (and older people in general) as out of touch, close-minded, resistant to change and part of the problem. While many Baby Boomers were connected to the youth counterculture of the 1960-70s, they have since been blamed in recent years by younger generations for a variety of societal woes. “‘Ok, Boomer’ says, ‘Keep talking old person. We’re not even going to roll our eyes at you. We look past you to a future we’re going to have to fix ourselves—one we inherited from you: climate change and disappearing species, crippling debt and a crumbling democracy,” said Salie.

OK, BOOMER On December 1, CBS Sunday Morning’s Faith Salie, 48, delivered a cheeky rendition of the catchphrase, “Ok, Boomer” as a fashionable and political step up from “Whatever,” or “Talk to the hand,” directed toward older people. This generational chasm of frustration, tension and a general “enough is enough” by younger people gained tremendous momen-

THE BLAME GAME, AGAIN Pictured above: Olivia VanGundy and Carolyn Bentley. Bottom left: Brandon Topfer and Joe Mauch. Next page, top right: Connor Triest and Steven Soychak. Photos by B. Bigler. tum over the past year. Although generational finger-pointing is not a new concept, social media casts the combative yet dismissive meme “Ok, Boomer” into a global viral phenomenon. The New York Times claimed the meme “marks the end of friendly generational relations.” “Ok, Boomer” memes (see sidebar for definition and examples), social media songs, YouTube videos and merchandise added fuel to the fire. Peter Kuli, 19, who created a remix of the song that started it all, said, “I think the internet is finally allowing people to feel like they have a voice and an outlet to critique the generations who got us into this position.” “Ok, Boomer” mocks and dismisses a person from the Baby

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Intergenerational tension isn’t bad. It’s how you address it.

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Salie’s editorial stirred up such a firestorm among seniors that the following Sunday morning, author and radio host Bill Flanagan, 64, was given equal time to respond. In essence, Flanagan argued that no generation gets it all right, and no generation fixes everything. “I grew up under a barrage of insults from the World War II generation,” said Flanagan. “They continually reminded us they were raised in the Depression, defeated Hitler and now we have everything handed to us.” He admitted that climate change has gotten worse, but Boomers inherited pollution, nuclear weapons and racial injustice. “The world was kind of in rough shape when we arrived,” he said. “But our generation can take credit for making big cities livable again, revolutionizing communication, shrinking crime, poverty and violence, and advancing rights for women, African Americans and the

COVER STORY

DISTRESS FROM YOUNGER PEOPLE HAS BECOME “MISPLACED” ANXIETY ABOUT OLDER PEOPLE, WHICH SOME WOULD CONSIDER AGEISM...THE SOLUTION TO THE GENERATIONAL WAR IS TO STOP FIGHTING IT. LGBTQ community in ways never dreamed of in the past.”

MISDIRECTED THINKING Political writer Bhaskar Sunkara, 30, said it’s time to ditch the meme because it isn’t directed at the right people. With half of those over 65 having less than $25,000 in savings, a division by class makes more sense than by generations. “Energy should be directed at big politicians or big CEOs, not people who don’t have a lot of power and wealth,” said Sunkara. Sociologist and author Jennie Bristow conjectured that the “Boomer blaming” is largely a symbolic discussion and not really about Baby Boomers. She argued that distress from younger people has become

“misplaced” anxiety about older people, which some would consider ageism. Bristow believes the solution to the generational war is to stop fighting it. “The more people are invited to see issues in terms of intergenerational conflict, the more the conflict picks up,” Bristow said. “When young people are told constantly that their future has been taken away from them by older generations, it’s not really surprising that they begin thinking that way.”

WHAT YOUNG PEOPLE MEAN Just because there’s intergenerational tension doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. In fact, it can lead to positive change, if approached with the right attitude. “My take on ‘Ok, Boomer’ is that younger people often feel that older

people don’t take them seriously,” said Brenda Wilhelm, Ph.D., Professor of Sociology at Colorado Mesa University. “I see this more as a way to say, ‘Hold up, we’ve got something to say here.’” Wilhelm said younger people are entering a world where their angst is reasonable, especially when watching politicians who seem unable or unwilling to do anything about these problems. “I think young people are reasonably pointing out that their elders do not have all the answers,” said Wilhelm. And that’s okay. Norman Ryder’s theory of demographic metabolism describes the process by which societies change through the generations. Younger people enter society with fresh eyes, which is an important mechanism of social change. “‘Ok, Boomer’ may just be the latest way for a younger generation to try to make that clear to an older generation,” said Wilhelm. “However, with the advent of social media, no one really controls the phrase or how it is used. I’m just not sure the

negative feelings and generation gap are as big as the media would have us believe.” Wilhelm hopes the wisdom of their years would allow Boomers to empathize with young people today, understand where they are coming from and, if they are in positions to do so, help them create a better world. To say that one generation cannot understand the other is false. Each has much to learn from the other. Intergenerational programs and causes combine people of varying ages, life experiences, classes and views, showing that people from across perceived divides have much to gain from one another. Embracing communication fosters positive understanding, diminishes stereotypes, and empowers respect. “I think opportunities and encouragement for people to have meaningful interactions across generations would be a start,” said Wilhelm. “Maybe social media posts about those interactions could result in a more compassionate meme.” ■

Meme

(pronounced “meem”) an amusing image, video or text that spreads within a culture usually through the Internet. WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | COVER STORY |

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Breathe new life into your closet Host a clothing exchange party By Melanie Wiseman

GET SWAPPING

espite having closets and drawers overflowing with shoes, dresses, jeans, tops and sweaters, how often do you find yourself with nothing to wear? Maybe things don’t fit right because they shrank or you’ve gained or lost weight. Maybe that dress was an impulse buy, or that sweater isn’t your color. When it comes to shopping for clothes, let’s just say I’m not a fan. I quickly tire of navigating the congested maze of tightly packed racks of faddy merchandise and outlandish retail store markups and dislike having to flag down an employee when I need help. So I support local thrift stores instead. When I was recently introduced to the concept of a clothing exchange party, I couldn’t contain my excitement. “You mean I get to shop and take clothes home for free? I’m in!” I’m now a clothing swap groupie, if there is such a thing. If your wardrobe needs a facelift, organizing a fun and easy clothing exchange may be the answer.

Clothing swap parties are social and eco-friendly home gatherings where attendees bring unwanted clothing and accessories for the taking. “I used to go to clothing exchanges when I lived in Flagstaff, Arizona,” said Sharon Sullivan. “When we moved to Grand Junction I wondered how I could get by without them!” After a year, she invited friends and acquaintances over for a swapping party. “It was a hit, and that was 20 years ago!” said Sullivan. “Since that first one, I’ve heard of other exchange groups in the valley.” Connie Smith looks forward to the three or four events this group of friends holds each year. Anyone is welcome to host or invite a friend. “I love getting new items of clothing and it makes you clean out your closet,” said Smith. “At the end of the event, there are usually many items left over, which hostesses donate to charities of their choice.”

IF YOUR WARDROBE NEEDS A FACE-LIFT, ORGANIZING A FUN AND EASY CLOTHING EXCHANGE MAY BE THE ANSWER.

Cary Atwood, left, Melanie Wiseman, center, and Connie Smith, right, model some of the outfits they nabbed at a mutual friend’s clothing exchange party. Photos by Chrissy Martin. Hostesses can also open up the exchange to shoes, purses, jewelry, games, books, CDs and DVDs, men’s and children’s clothing, and housewares.

SCORING TREASURES AND FRIENDSHIPS Cary Atwood began attending Sullivan’s clothing exchanges 18 years ago. “Over time, I’d wager I’ve gone through half a closet of new-to-me sweaters, jeans, vests, shirts and

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the occasional dress,” said Atwood. “Most of the women who have attended are thrifters looking for a good find. Often, the exchanges are the only time I get to chat with these acquaintences.” Smith took home a pair of sleek black boots from their last party. She said she’s had too many “good finds” over the years to count. I scored a great hat and sweater as well as several tops perfect for travel. “One thing that’s fun is when

BEACON SENIOR NEWS other women find clothes for you,” said Sullivan. “People have shown me things I would not have picked up and I end up loving them!” It’s fun seeing your friends wearing your clothes around town, knowing they found a good home. “One time I brought a bathrobe which one of the ladies took home, and her husband liked it and wore it,” said Smith. “Now that’s funny!”

THE ONLY RULE Once the clothes are sorted into piles, Sullivan gives the signal. “Okay, ladies...shop!” The hunting frenzy begins, full of chatter and laughter. Sullivan hasn’t found it necessary to have a bunch of rules because most people are pretty relaxed and generous. Their only rule is to not start shopping until the signal is given. It’s never been Sullivan’s experience for women to fight over an item or to be greedy; it’s all in the spirit of fun. “I embrace this kind of feel-good free for all,” said Atwood. “It’s a win-win for everyone and not a single dime is spent.”

HOW TO HOST A SWAPPING PARTY • Compile the invitation list. Invite a good mix of sizes. Keep the guest list to 10-20 people. • Give invitees at least two

weeks’ notice. Remind guests to come early to display their wares and make it clear that items not taken will be donated. • Host parties at the beginning of a season when people would be going through their clothing. • Be clear about what is “swap-worthy.” Stipulate the importance of all items being clean, contemporary and in good condition—no broken zippers, holes or stains. • Tell people to bring their own bags. Put those eco-friendly shopping bags to good use. • Decide on presentation. Display items on hangers or folded on tables for a chic look versus the casual pile-and-grab approach. Label areas by category and direct guests to sort their items when they arrive. • Browsing early is okay, just not shopping early. • Set up an area with several mirrors as a fitting room, such as a bathroom or bedroom. • Put on some upbeat music. After all, it’s a party! • Set a fixed start and ending time for the swap. An hour or so is usually good. • Encourage people to try things on even if it’s just for fun! • Consider extending social time with refreshments after the swap. ■

FEEL GREAT. DONATE.

HOW TO DONATE TO ARC THRIFT STORES

t’s super easy to donate your unneeded wares to ARC Thrift Store—and it feels good, too! Donations to this mission-based organization stay in the community and help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independent lives. ARC is also one of the largest recyclers in the state, keeping millions of pounds out of Colorado landfills every year. ARC Thrift Store, located

at 2830 North Ave. in Grand Junction, is now open! The store accepts clothing, shoes, books, toys, kitchen items, furniture, home decor and many electronics. Donations are made in the back of the building, where ARC team members carefully and safely unload all items, so you don’t have to worry. ARC also welcomes cash and credit donations, which are easy and secure. For more information, stop by today!

TIME FOR A SPRING CLEAN?

Donate Y ou r G entl y Us ed Items! Complimentary pick-up available for larger items.

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RECIPES

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Servings: 2 Prep time: 10-15 minutes Cook time 10-15 minutes Ingredients 4 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 cup water 6 tablespoons Sabra Supremely Spicy Hummus, plus additional for garnish 4 quarts water 3 ounces dry angel hair pasta 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic 2 cups thinly sliced bell pepper 1 cup thinly sliced cherry tomatoes 1 tablespoon thinly sliced Thai basil, divided 1 tablespoon sliced scallions, divided To make sauce: In large frying pan over medium heat, cook soy sauce, sugar, water and hummus 1-2 minutes until hot and mixed together. To make noodles: Bring water to boil. Add pasta to boiling water and cook 5 minutes, or until tender. Strain noodles. Add garlic, bell peppers and cherry tomatoes to sauce. Let simmer 2 minutes. Add noodles and mix to fully coat noodles, 1-2 minutes. Add 1/2 tablespoon basil and 1/2 tablespoon scallions; reserve remainder for garnish.

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Place noodles in bowls and top with hummus and remaining basil and scallions. ■

ASK THE OLD BAG

Retirement not busy enough? Try volunteering

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

Dear Old Bag: I read your letter to “Lost” in the January issue and I have another suggestion. St. Augustine said, “Our hearts are restless, Lord, until they rest in thee.” Translation: Do some of God’s work and you will find purpose and happiness. Find a charitable cause where you can utilize your talents and try it out. There are thousands of charities that would love your help. And unlike work, you can choose which hours you volunteer. There are three sources of joy you get from charity work: enjoyable people to work with, recipients who are usually grateful, and feeling a joyful satisfaction from helping those in need. I have always felt that I got more joy out of helping people than the recipients of my effort. I guarantee you can find purpose, peace and joy. Signed, Joyful in Retirement Dear Joyful: Thank you for your very thoughtful letter. I, too, enjoy volunteering and I see that it has carried over to my children, which is most gratifying! OB Dear Old Bag: The February letter signed by “Happy Girl” about doing nothing in retirement struck home with me. After I fully retired in June 2019, I got all kinds of advice from people on what I should be doing. When I told them, “I’m doing absolutely nothing and loving it,” they would say, “You just can’t do nothing!” My response was this: “This is my retirement and I’ve never been happier!” Everyone is wired a bit differently. It’s nice not having to answer a 5 a.m. alarm or be expected to be at a place at a certain time. I knew for years this is the kind of retirement I wanted. Signed, BH Dear BH: You are right, of course. Thank you for reminding me. To each his own. Sometimes I forget that. OB Dear Old Bag: Your recent column where you were discussing how to get off the health care merry-go-round made me stop and think. Many of us just go merrily along and go to the doctor when something is wrong and let them tell us what to do. Then we end up in the last lap of life spending hundreds of thousands of Medicare money on treatment we did not want in the first place. Thank you for making me think about what I really want this homestretch to be like! Signed MBW Dear MBW: Thank you for writing. I recently read, “I’ll Have it my Way: Taking Control of End-of-Life Decisions” by Hattie Bryant. I highly recommend it. OB

Life is about the company you keep Hilltop’s senior living communities where neighbors soon become friends n Luxurious apartments with views, spacious floorplans, and paid utilities n Restaurant-style dining n Beautiful outdoor spaces and walking trails n Social activities and trips

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

Dear Old Bag: My friend and I recently discovered your column and we like it, but we understand you have been doing this for years. Have you ever thought of writing a book using your best columns? We would like to catch up! Signed, B and G Dear B and G: As a matter of fact, one of my publishers suggested that to me, and I have begun work on it. I will let you know when and if it publishes! Thank you for reading! OB ■

The Commons • 243-3333 The Fountains • 243-8800 625 27 1/2 Road • TheCommonsGJ.org

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ASK THE OLD BAG

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

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

When you choose Hilltop Senior Living Communities, your money stays right here in our community, supporting a nonprofit that has provided Western Colorado with compassionate and comprehensive human services for over 65 years.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | ASK THE OLD BAG |

HEALTHY GEEZER

Are you as tough as your nails?

nurse told a friend of mine to see a doctor because his nails looked kind of white. He went to the doctor and found out he has a liver problem. These two events were not coincidental. The condition of your nails can tell medical professionals a lot about your health. • White nails? Could be your liver. • Thick, pitted nails? Psoriasis • Nails that are half pink/half white? Kidney disease • Red nail beds? A heart condition • Thick, yellow nails? Lung disease • Pale or concave nail beds? Anemia • Light yellow nails with a slight blush at the base? Diabetes Most doctors examine the nails during a physical. Nail growth is affected by disease, hormone imbalance and aging.

THE NAIL ANATOMY The nail plate is the part of the nail you can see on a digit. The nail bed is the skin under a plate, and the cuticle is the tissue that overlaps the plate. The matrix is the part of the nail that’s tucked under the cuticle and is where the nail grows from. The lunula is the crescent moon at the base of the nail. Nails are made primarily of keratin, an extremely strong protein that is also a major part of skin, hair and teeth. Many seniors experience issues with nails because they tend to thicken as we age. We also experience more difficulties with circulation and use more medications that

affect the nails. Most minor injuries to nails heal without help. Some nail problems can be treated with medications, while others may require the nail to be removed. If a nail is infected, discolored, swollen or painful, go see a doctor.

NAIL CARE DOS AND DON’TS To prevent infections, do wash your nails often and keep them dry. Thick toenails, which come with age, are difficult to trim. Soaking your feet in warm salt water will soften them and make them easier to cut. Toenails should be cut straight

across so the nail doesn’t extend beyond the tip of the toe. Do not round off corners, and don’t bite your fingernails. Don’t remove cuticles. To remove any snags, use a fine file. Disinfect your nail-trimmers and files. If you use public showers, wear flip-flops to prevent getting infections. Make sure your shoes and socks fit properly and they are made of materials that don’t suffocate the feet. Shoes and socks should be changed often—more than once daily. ■

HEALTHY GEEZER, BY FRED CICETTI Send your general health questions to the Healthy Geezer in care of the BEACON, or email him directly at fred@healthygeezer.com

Epiphany Dermatology of Grand Junction is conveniently located near Downtown Grand Junction. We treat all skin conditions including general dermatology, cosmetic procedures, and skin cancer treatments.

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Psst! Your food is bugged Y

ou already know how much I despise companies and government regulations that push unnecessary, toxic chemicals on us, right? Well, here’s something even more revolting. It’s the government handbook called, “The Food Defect Action Levels.” This guidebook spells out exactly how much mold, rat hair, maggots, parasites and bug parts can go into our food. It's shocking how generous these limits are! If you just want to eat your food and keep your head in the sand, here’s your cue to stop reading and turn to the jokes in our Laughing Matters section. If you have a morbid curiosity of what the FDA shamelessly allows us to eat, then read on. One peanut butter sandwich (approx. 100 grams of peanut butter) could have 30 or more pieces of insect parts on it. I know that no amount of jelly will allow you to unsee that visual, but the jelly drama is about to get worse. Carmine is a word that flows off the tongue so beautifully, but it comes from boiling up beetles. It’s a beautiful red dye that adds color to some popular brands of red or purple jelly and frosting. (I warned you it was going to get worse!) Carmine is found in millions of different foods, candies and especially lipsticks. You may see it as 75470 or E129, or “natural red 4.” These are all code for carmine. Starbucks was pressured to get rid of the buggy colorant from their beautiful Strawberry Frappuccino.

Cockroaches in chocolate? The FDA approves of cockroach and other bug parts in chocolate bars and liqueurs. The FDA lets companies put, on average, 60 insect pieces into every 100 grams of chocolate! This is considered safe for consumption. Egad! These bugs carry pathogens such as salmonella, E coli and listeria! Gelatin is a tasteless compound (actually a protein) that is used to thicken candy, as well as lots of foods and drinks. It comes specifically from prolonged boiling of animal parts like skin, bones, connective tissue and cartilage. It is usually pork derived, but can also come from chicken, cows and fish. Shellac is a resin that is excreted by the female lac bug. The bug poop is processed and dissolved in alcohol and is turned into liquid shellac, which can then be used as a food glaze or dye. You’ll find it on gobs of candy including candy corn, Raisinets, Tootsie Rolls, Junior Mints, Sugar Babies and jellybeans. It’s used widely in the dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industry. These additives are not considered “unsafe,” however they are gross, unnecessary additives that should not be so rampant in our food supply. The FDA should reduce the acceptable allowances and closely regulate food makers so we don’t have to eat so many bugs! ■

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Medicare Moment: Monthly tips and

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Medicare Advantage do-over period lasts until March 31 People currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans can switch to another plan or to Original Medicare through March 31. Changes take effect the next month. A Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, also called “Part C,” is a Medicare-approved insurance run by a private company. It pays for much of the medical and/or medication costs for Medicare services. Companies that offer MA plans in this area are Aetna, Anthem and Humana. MA plans are different from Cost and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Plans, which are other types of Medicare-approved health insurance. “No one is required to make a change,” said Kimberly Latta, Director of Colorado SHIP. “This period is for people who might be having second thoughts about the Medicare Advantage decision they made during Open Enrollment last fall.”

This is a do-over period. If you are not on a MA plan, you cannot purchase one during this do-over period. For current MA plan enrollees, you can: - Switch to another MA Plan (if available). - Disenroll from your MA Plan and return to Original Medicare. - If you return to Original Medicare, you’ll be able to join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Medicare Part D) and can enroll in a Medigap plan (with insurance company approval). Carefully determine your available options before making the switch. Current MA plan enrollees who want to take advantage of this do-over opportunity should contact RSVP SHIP at

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ere’s how it goes: A pinched nerve in my back radiates excruciating pain down my left leg. I can’t stand for long and I can’t walk more than a few steps before I have to sit down to relieve what can best be described as a bad toothache getting hit every second by a hammer. Two emergency room visits sent me home with an MRI diagnosis, four shots and six bottles of prescription pills. An attempt to enjoy my vacation on the east coast failed after three chiropractic visits. Nothing helped take the edge off the pain. The chiropractor, after reviewing the MRI, advised me to see a neurosurgeon. I made the call in December to schedule the appointment. The first opening wasn’t until May. I called for a different doctor and they set me up with a physician’s assistant (PA). At the time, I didn’t care if he was an auto mechanic wanting to stick a flathead screwdriver through my leg—as long as it killed the nerve pain.

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Insurance companies that challenge every patient procedure control the medical world. My first doctor told me he was on the phone for 45 minutes convincing an agent to approve of my MRI. This waiting to get relief makes me think I’d better plan ahead from now on to get a doctor’s appointment when it’s needed. Here’s how making a successful appointment would go. Me: I’d like to make an appointment to see the doctor.

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I asked the PA for a cortisone shot. He said he wasn’t allowed to authorize it until I had a consultation with the pain management department, which is scheduled for February 12. Then the shot will have to be scheduled, most likely weeks later. My neurosurgeon appointment has now been set for April 9. So I’ve had to bear this pain from December until at least March. I’m told that by that time my body might heal itself.

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I’VE HAD TO BEAR THIS PAIN FROM DECEMBER UNTIL AT LEAST MARCH. I’M TOLD THAT BY THAT TIME MY BODY MIGHT HEAL ITSELF. Office worker (OW): Our first available is May 1. Me: Oh that’s too soon. Do you have anything in July? OW: Too soon? No one has ever said that. What is it that you want to see the doctor about? Me: Oh, I’m fine now, but I might very well have some problems by July. OW: (laughs) I’m sorry. We only make appointments for those who have medical issues. Me: I might have an issue by then. Besides, if I have a problem in July and call then, you’ll tell me the next available will be in September sometime. OW: So you’re planning on having a problem? Me: I plan ahead for everything. Got long-term care insurance for a nursing home. Picked out my grave plot, too, and paid for that. OW: (laughs) Well, good for you, but making an appointment in July when you might not need to see the doctor doesn’t make sense. Me: I have had severe pain and had to wait months to see a doctor. Like I said, I don’t want to have pain and then wait that long. OW: Well, okay then. How’s July 15? Me: That’s fine. OW: Will you please call and cancel if you don’t need the appointment? Me: Yes, I will, but then I’ll make another one for January just in case.

A BROKEN SYSTEM

Now I realize that the system is overwhelmed and there are wonderful doctors doing the very best they can when considering the number of patients they see each week. An appointment for a specialized doctor is months after you

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call because they generally have only two days of office visits and are in surgery for the other three. I wonder how many surgeries a doctor performs in a week and if that creates a possibility that he might make a mistake due to exhaustion. I know a cardiologist who says that he and many of his colleagues live on 5-Hour Energy drinks so they can remain alert and focused during long operations. Staying healthy is an obvious goal, but there is an irony to my life and death. My pension and my Social Security would like to have me die so that would end my benefits. My life insurance company, however, wants me to stay alive—that is, until my term policy expires. Then they get to keep thousands of dollars in paid premiums and I get nothing in return. Of course, health and long-term care insurance companies want me to drop dead so I don’t cost them a lot of money for long hospital stays. Pharmaceutical companies would like to see me suffer in pain for a long time and need their prescriptions. So here’s how I can make everyone happy that has a stake in my well-being: Get very sick now. Need multiple prescriptions but stay out of doctor and hospital care so insurance companies don’t have to pay for treatment. Die suddenly right after my term life insurance expires so my beneficiaries don’t get a dime while the company gets to keep my premium money. If all this happens, big pharma, pension, Social Security and my life insurance should send thank-you notes to my survivors. Meanwhile, I better call my dentist and make an appointment for next fall in case this tooth in the back of my mouth needs a root canal. ■

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BOOMER BEAT

Naps are underrated Celebrate National Napping Day with quality sleep

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bviously, I’m not the only one who believes naps are underrated. The powers that designated the Monday following daylight savings time as National Napping Day totally get it. This year’s day to celebrate guilt-free extra zzz’s is March 9. Even if we were solid sleepers in our younger years, by age 50, many of us find our quality of sleep unraveling, leading to a slippery slope into Zombieland if nothing is done to change our sleep habits. One of my favorite comedic authors, Tom Papa, offers some great advice on sleep. “One of the biggest mistakes you can make is coming into the kitchen in the morning declaring you had a great night’s sleep,” he said. “What a stupid thing to say to the person you share a bed with! One person’s good sleep comes at the cost of the other’s misery. If she tosses, he turns. If he snores, she listens…” He suggests that when you are young and in love, you could sleep on an army cot together. Later in life he suggests “separate beds, in separate rooms, on different sides of town.” Think about it: If we have to sleep in the same bed to prove we love each other but it becomes a wrestling mat with flailing arms and legs, mouth guards, sinus strips, cold feet, hot bodies and fantasies of smothering our spouse with a pillow, then what’s the point? “It would be much better if we

stayed apart for the night, slept well, and had a nice breakfast together,” said Papa. But seriously, insufficient sleep can impact metabolism, mood, memory and heart function. Getting more sleep—and quality sleep—is crucial for our active lifestyles. Take my advice: • Splurge on the largest and most comfortable mattress you can afford. Two extra-long twins pushed together fit in a king frame but save you from feeling the other person’s each and every move. Bonus: You each can choose your own mattress firmness! • White noise helps. Don’t lose sleep over your partner’s snores or creaky floorboards. Consider a fan or white-noise machine with a calming effect. Ask Alexa to play rain sounds. White noise apps, earbuds, headphones and headbands are also very popular. I’ve used soft ear plugs for 20 years, and what a difference they make! • Keep bedtime consistent. This helps to regulate your body’s clock. • Keep electronics out of the bedroom. The light emanating from the screens activates the brain. • Listen to your body. If it’s telling you to nap, embrace it. Instead of thinking of a nap as a luxury or sign of slacking off, view it as recharging yourself. ■

BOOMER BEAT BY MELANIE WISEMAN For accommodations of individuals with special needs at meetings, please call 970-260-8285 ADD TTY 711.

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Send your questions to Melanie in care of the BEACON, or email her directly at melaniewisewoman@gmail.com

The tune we all know By Randal C. Hill Do you recognize this song? To Anacreon in Heaven, where he sat in full glee A few sons of harmony sent a petition That he their inspirer and patron would be When his answer arrived from the jolly old Grecian Voice, fiddle and flute No longer be mute Doesn’t ring a bell? The words to this old British drinking tune from 1775 may not be familiar, but “To Anacreon in Heaven” features a melody you have heard—and sung—countless times. Francis Scott Key was a Washington, DC lawyer—and an amateur poet. During the War of 1812, Key was dispatched to Baltimore by President James Madison to negotiate for the release of a prominent

surgeon, Dr. William Beanes. He had been captured and was being held aboard a British ship as a civilian prisoner of war. Key boarded an English vessel under a flag of truce in the Chesapeake Bay on September 7, 1814. He secured Beanes’ release but was then detained on a British ship while the English proceeded to attack nearby Fort McHenry. Beginning at 6 a.m., British warships fired rockets and mortars at the fort for 25 continuous hours, while over 1,000 American soldiers inside responded with cannon fire. Even Philadelphia residents 100 miles away heard the explosions. Due to a lack of accuracy with the weaponry on both sides, little actual damage was done, although four Americans inside the fort perished. When the British ran out of ammunition, they hauled up their ships’ anchors and sailed out to sea.

BEACON SENIOR NEWS As dawn brought light to the smoke-filled sky, Key saw that Fort McHenry’s 15-star flag still defiantly waved. Key, overcome with relief and emotion, began writing a poem of praise—“The Defense of Fort McHenry”—on the back of an envelope he had in his pocket. The lyrics that flowed from his pen became a testament to American resolve, endurance and the willingness to persevere against overwhelming odds. Baltimore newspapers quickly printed his verses, and soon after, his brother-in-law set the words to the melody of a group singalong called “To Anacreon in Heaven,” a rousing number popular in pubs throughout Baltimore at the time. That November, a local music store printed Key’s words for the first time under a more lyrical title: “The Star-Spangled Banner.” By the time the war ended a few months later, Key’s soul-stirring song had become ingrained into America’s popular culture.

On March 3, 1931, president Herbert Hoover signed a law making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the official U.S. national anthem. While the tune has played a large role in molding the modern image of America, only its first verse is usually sung, while the other three remain unknown to most people. All four verses conclude with the same line: “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” On March 3, we’ll again honor National Anthem Day, as we have every year for nearly 90 years. ■

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LAUGHING MATTERS

LAUGHING MATTERS GONE FOR GOOD

SUCCESS IS...

Submitted by Bob Breazeale

Submitted by Teresa Kane At age 4 success is not piddling in your pants. At age 12 success is having friends. At age 17 success is having a driver’s license. At age 35 success is saving money. At age 50 success is having money. At age 70 success is having a driver’s license. At age 75 success is having friends. At age 80 success is not piddling in your pants.

The wives of two rednecks are talking over coffee. Mary: “John and I had a really big fight. I think he has left me for good this time,” Jane: “Don’t say that. You’ve had fights before.” Mary: “Yes, but this time he took his bowling ball with him.”

BACHELORS Submitted by Chris Carol Two bachelors named Larry and Frank went out to dinner. The conversation drifted from office to sports and then to cooking. “I got a cookbook once,” Larry said, “but I couldn’t do anything.” “Too much fancy stuff in it, huh?” Frank said. Larry nodded. “Everyone of those recipes started off the same way: Take a clean plate.”

TRUTH HURTS Submitted by Jeremy Splude Great truths that little children have learned: 1) No matter how hard you try, you can’t baptize cats. 2) When your mom is mad at your dad, don’t let her brush your hair. 3) If your sister hits you, don’t hit her back. They always catch the

second person. 4) Never ask your 3-year-old brother to hold a tomato. 5) You can’t trust dogs to watch your food. 6) Don’t sneeze when someone is cutting your hair. 7) Never hold a Dust-Buster and a cat at the same time. 8) You can’t hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk. 9) Don’t wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts. 10) The best place to be when you’re sad is Grandma’s lap. Great truths that adults have learned: 1) Raising teenagers is like nailing Jell-O to a tree. 2) Wrinkles don’t hurt. 3) Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts. 4) Today’s mighty oak is just yesterday’s nut that held its ground.

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5) Laughing is good exercise. It’s like jogging on the inside. 6) Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy. Great truths about growing old: 1) Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. 2) Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get. 3) When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you’re down there. 4) You’re getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster. 5) It’s frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions. 6) Time may be a great healer, but it’s a lousy beautician. 7) Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.

LAUGHING MATTERS

FINGERPRINTS Submitted by Bob Breazeale Gunny sergeant Wagner’s new Marine recruits have just finished another session on the rifle range and are getting into formation to march back to camp. The gunny turns to his corporal and says, “That private Smith is a very good marksman. Where is he from?” The corporal replies, “From a very rough area of Chicago.” Gunny Wagner replies, “That explains why he wipes his fingerprints off the rifle after every session.”

CURED! Submitted by Susan Capps An old geezer became very bored in retirement and decided to open a medical clinic. He put a sign up outside that said: “Dr. Geezer’s clinic. Get your treatment for $500. If not cured, get back $1,000.” Dr. Young, who was positive the old geezer didn’t know beans about medicine, thought this would be a great opportunity to get $1,000. So he went to Dr. Geezer’s clinic. Dr. Young: Dr. Geezer, I have lost all taste in my mouth. Can you please help me? Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from Box 22 and put three drops in Dr. Young’s mouth. Dr. Young: Aaagh! This is gasoline! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You’ve got your taste back. That will be $500. Dr. Young was annoyed and went

back after a couple of days, figuring he’d recover his money. Dr. Young: I’ve lost my memory. I can’t remember anything. Dr. Geezer: Nurse, please bring medicine from Box 22 and put three drops in the patient’s mouth. Dr. Young: Oh, no you don’t! That’s gasoline! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You’ve got your memory back. That will be $500. Dr. Young leaves angrily and comes back after several more days. Dr. Young: My eyesight has become weak. I can hardly see anything! Dr. Geezer: Well, I don’t have any medicine for that, so here’s your $1,000 back (gives him a $10 bill). Dr. Young: But this is only $10! Dr. Geezer: Congratulations! You got your vision back! That will be $500.

GOLF BALLS Submitted by Bill Chaplin A man got on the bus with his front trouser pockets full of golf balls and sat down next to a beautiful blonde. The puzzled blonde kept looking at him and his bulging pockets. Finally, after many glances from her, he said, “It’s golf balls.” The blonde continued to look at him for a very long time, thinking deeply about what he had said. Finally, unable to contain her curiosity any longer, she asked, “Does it hurt as much as tennis elbow?” ■

Make Us

Laugh !

Send your JOKESto

Beacon@PendantPublishing.com or P.O. Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

March is

Navigating transitions:

Write a Will Month Writing a will Cloie Sandlin

“And to my favorite charity, The Caring Fund for Curious Cats, I bequeath...”

Learn the importance of writing a will to ensure your personal and charitable wishes are carried out.

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Wednesday March 4 ..... 10:30 a.m.-Noon Wednesday March 11 ............5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday March 18 ...........5:30-7 p.m. Mesa County Central Library Community Room, 443 N. 6th St. Limited space. Registration is required at: Mesacountylibraries.org/events or call: 243-4442 Sponsored as a public service by: Hoskin, Farina & Kampf, Mesa County Libraries Two Rivers Trust Company The following members of the Mesa County Fundraisers Network: CEC, Colorado West Land Trust, Family Health West, Hilltop, HomewardBound of the Grand Valley, HopeWest, MarillacHealth, One Riverfront, Mesa County Partners, Roice-Hurst Humane Society, St. Mary’s Foundation, Third Sector Innovations & Strategic by Nature, Western Colorado Community Foundation The following media sponsors: Beacon Senior News, KAFM, The Business Times, The Daily Sentinel, MBC Grand Broadcasting and Rocky Mountain PBS

20 | MARCH 2020 |

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ll good things must come to an end, and if you’re really a good person, you don’t want to leave a big legal mess for your family to deal with after you die. That’s why having a will is important. While no one wants to think about their mortality, taking the time to prepare a well-written document that specifies how you would like your assets to be distributed after you die is a huge relief for your loved ones. “There’s no magic age for a will because none of us has a crystal ball to know when ours will be needed,” said Kellianne Chamberlain, a Grand Junction attorney with Hoskin, Farina and Kampf. Chamberlain joins Marsha Harbert, senior trust officer at Two Rivers Trust in Grand Junction, and other local experts in presenting at the fourth annual Write a Will Month seminars at the Mesa County Libraries in March. These free, no-obligation seminars provide an overview of estate-planning basics as well as what you need for medical powers of attorney, living wills and trusts. Chamberlain and Harbert shared these key takeaways to consider when writing your will:

HIRE A LOCAL ATTORNEY TO HELP DRAFT YOUR WILL. While websites tout free templates and paid software to help you write your will, there is no substitute for the peace of mind that comes with hiring a local attorney to make sure your wishes are reflected clearly in your estate plans and are carried out after you die. “Too many times folks believe a will is just a fill-in-the-blank exercise,” said Chamberlain. “The problem with handwritten or

template wills, however, is that they are most often incomplete, vague or otherwise do not result in what the family later tells me the person wanted. They also often require more proof to be admitted to probate.” A local attorney knows the laws in your state and can help update your will as your circumstances or wishes change. They can also help with other estate-planning needs, such as medical and financial powers of attorney. Harbert added that it’s important your intent is mirrored in all of your estate-planning documents and that your assets (house, retirement account, investments, etc.) all align with your wishes. “Make sure your assets are titled correctly,” she said.

UPDATE YOUR WILL EVERY 3-5 YEARS. “I advise folks to take a look at the document every few years to make sure it still says what they want, and to be sure to reach out to their attorney if there has been or will be a significant life change, such as a death in the family or a new marriage,” Chamberlain said. Failing to update your will can be problematic, especially when there’s been a major life event. If you get a divorce then remarry, do you want your ex-husband to still be your beneficiary?

STORE YOUR WILL IN A SAFE PLACE. “We advise folks to store their wills in a safe place, and we keep a copy as well,” said Chamberlain. “Some counties allow you to pre-file with the court, but that is not necessary and most often not advisable because you may change your mind and write a new will in the future.”

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

“I ADVISE FOLKS TO TAKE A LOOK AT THE DOCUMENT EVERY FEW YEARS TO MAKE SURE IT STILL SAYS WHAT THEY WANT, AND TO BE SURE TO REACH OUT TO THEIR ATTORNEY IF THERE HAS BEEN OR WILL BE A SIGNIFICANT LIFE CHANGE” DON’T FORGET YOUR FAVORITE CHARITIES.

WHEN TO CONSIDER A TRUST:

You can continue your charitable giving to the charities you’ve favored during your lifetime with a final gift in your will that will be part of your legacy. Harbert said retirement accounts, real estate and beneficiary deeds are all wonderful ways to give to nonprofits. “People might give $50 to their church every month, but if they were to give 5 percent of the value of their house, their kids might not miss it, but it’s a pretty good-size contribution to a local nonprofit,” said Harbert.

1) If you own property in multiple states. “Real estate has to be probated, so if you have property in Florida, California and Arizona in addition to living in Colorado, you have probate in every one of those states. Trusts bypass probate and don’t have to be probated,” said Harbert. 2) If you have a blended family. “A husband and wife have children from a previous marriage. He wants to take care of his current wife, but then when he passes away, he wants to take care of

his kids but not her kids necessarily. The only way to do that is to set up those assets in trust so that during his wife’s lifetime, that money will be used for her care but when she passes, his money can go to his kids and hers to her kids. It also helps to make sure there’s communication upfront before one of the parents passes away,” said Harbert 3) If you have children you’re concerned about. Maybe you have a child that can’t manage money. A trust can help. “The trustee is like the gate

keeper that can help them with budgeting and financial planning,” said Harbert. “They have to come to us for requests with documentation. It’s not like they get a big pot of money deposited into their checking account.” 4) If one or more of your beneficiaries is on government benefits. If a beneficiary receives government benefits (such as Social Security or Medicaid) inheriting money (the exemption is $2,000) could jeopardize their benefits. In such circumstances, a special needs trust can help. ■

LEARN MORE DURING WRITE A WILL MONTH SPACE IS LIMITED. REGISTER TODAY! Registration is required. These free sessions take place at the Mesa County Libraries-Central Branch, 443 N. Sixth St. in Grand Junction. Register online for your preferred session at www.mesacountylibraries.com/events or call 243-4442.

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ALIVE & DIGGING

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Spring equinox is here. Let’s get planting! O n March 19, the sun sits directly above the equator, and day and night are nearly equal in length. For us in the Northern Hemisphere, March equinox marks the beginning of spring. With signs of new life popping up all around, spring makes it easy to marvel at the wonder of Nature, to notice her rhythm and to reconnect to our own intentions and the things that bring us joy. As flower buds appear on barren branches and bulbs send up vibrant colors from beneath the ground, we’re reminded of Nature’s infinite beauty and of our own access to endless possibility. Gardening helps us participate in Nature’s ebb and flow and connect to the natural world in a way that can be difficult in our modern age. As winter fades, it’s time to get moving! Bring in the energy of spring with open arms. Prepping garden beds and starting seeds are great ways to do it. Even walking around the garden (no matter how much or little space you have to play with) and envisioning what your garden will become is an opportunity to move, stimulate the mind and begin embodying wellness, springtime style.

PLANTING WELLNESS

If you’re itching to get your hands in the soil, here are a few things you can plant this month. Sow seeds of wellness by planting a bed of hardy, dark leafy greens, which are full of calcium, iron, vitamins A, C and K, potassium and fiber. A bed of colorful carrots adds antioxidants while radishes add magnesium and vitamin B6. Cover seeds with a thin layer of grass clippings or a sheet to keep the soil moist and help protect seedlings from spring frosts. I like to direct sow seeds thick and thin out the bed as sprouts emerge. Poppies are easy to direct seed and don’t mind cold temperatures. Broadcast poppy seeds throughout your garden and keep them moist until they germinate. Poppies need lots of light to germinate, so if you’re covering your beds with straw, be sure not to lay down too much. It’s amazing to see poppies come up even in the cold of early spring. Spinach, arugula and lettuce will also come up in cool temperatures. Spinach does not like to be transplanted, so it’s better to seed directly and then thin.

Greens, such as spinach, arugula and lettuce, thrive in cool temperatures.

22 | HOME & GARDEN | MARCH 2020 |

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ALIVE & DIGGING

Potatoes that are beginning to sprout are perfect for seed potatoes. Cut them into sections with one or two eyes in each piece.

PLANT POTATOES Potatoes can be planted as soon as you can work the soil, and they won’t be bothered by spring frosts. Potato plants won’t grow until soil temperatures have reached 45°F, but I love planting them in early spring so they can come up soon. If you’ve ever held onto a potato too long, you’ve seen the little

growths called eyes. These are what we plant in order to grow more potatoes. You can order potatoes for planting from seed companies, or you can find your favorites at the grocery store and store them in a warm, light place for a few weeks until they sprout eyes. One or two days before you’re

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ready to plant, use a clean knife to slice up the potatoes into sections. This will give the cut pieces time to dry out, which will help prevent rotting. Each section should have an eye or two. Smaller potatoes can be planted whole. Whatever you’re planting should be about the size of a golf ball. On planting day, dig a 6-8 inch deep trench into the soil that you’ve loosened and moistened. Place each potato piece cut-sidedown, with the eye pointing up towards the sky, every 6-12 inches (fingerlings can be planted closer together, while larger potatoes will want a bit more room). Fill the trench with about 4 inches of soil. Let the plants start

to grow and continue to mound up the soil around the plants as they grow taller. After about 10 weeks, they’ll be ready to harvest. If you really want to get fancy, you can plant a layer of fast-growing greens on top of your potatoes and pull them up as needed, once the potato plants begin to grow. This is the kind of creative planting that makes gardening exciting! From dreaming and envisioning, to seeding and planting, to celebrating Spring Equinox, March is truly a time to relish in fresh beginnings. This month, consider how you can reconnect with your own intentions for wellness, community, embodiment, joy—and start digging. ■

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

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BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Discover the possibilities

focus on people

Retirees and empty nesters open their homes and hearts to people with disabilities

our residents

their lives

their families

By Aaron Reynolds

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om Pritchett, a lover of music and explorer of the outdoors, greets life with a warm smile and infectious laugh. He’s been a member of the Grand Valley community for decades, working a steady job and residing in his own apartment. But Pritchett also lives with an intellectual disability, which has made it harder for him to maintain his independent lifestyle. Then a friendly conversation changed his life. While attending a day program that supports people with disabilities, Pritchett, 62, met a younger gentleman who shared many common interests despite their age difference. His new friend happened to live with a host provider. While watch-

ing a movie one night, Pritchett fell asleep on the couch at his friend’s host home. The accidental sleepover turned into a slumber party the next weekend. Pritchett found that the struggles he faced living alone lessened when he stayed over at the host’s home. Pritchett made the transition from his apartment to a home host provider years ago. Recently, he moved in with hosts Earl and Cindy Almond where he also gets to spend time with his friend under the same roof. Before becoming home hosts, the Almonds spent years working in foster care. After retiring to the Grand Valley several years ago, they didn’t have any immediate plans of turning back to caregiving. How-

MOSAIC GUARANTEES ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR HOME HOST PROVIDERS, ALONG WITH A 24-HOUR SUPPORT NETWORK.

24 | MARCH 2020 |

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“IT CAN BE DIFFICULT, BUT IT’S ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCES YOU WILL EVER HAVE TO GIVE TO ANOTHER HUMAN, TO SOMEONE THAT NEEDS THINGS THAT YOU CAN OFFER.” ever, the couple felt they weren’t quite done serving others, so they turned to Mosaic at Home to make an impact. They welcomed Pritchett into their home with open arms.

MOSAIC AT HOME Mosaic at Home provides community-based residential services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Although the Almonds have a history in caregiving, Cindy insists that experience is not mandatory to become a home host provider. All you need to do is open your heart. “It’s such a meaningful opportunity,” Cindy explained. “I’m sure this isn’t right for everybody, but for that individual who has [a home] to give, it’s so perfect.” While Pritchett values his independence with great zeal, the reality is that he’s among a sizable and underrepresented demographic on the Western Slope with special needs that require daily assistance. Mosaic guarantees ongoing education and training for home host providers, along with a 24-hour support network. The financial incentives are also noteworthy and reward providers for their generosity. Opening your door to a stranger is an uncomfortable thought for many people, yet the opportunity to serve others leaves a lasting imprint on providers as well. “It can be difficult, but it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have to give to another human, to someone that needs things

that you can offer,” Cindy added. Mosaic makes it a priority to value the independence and desires of those served, and therefore only matches people with disabilities to suitable homes. A caregiver plan is built around those specific needs, along with an individualized training program for the provider. The residential program doesn’t have many requirements to meet before you open your home to people with disabilities. The opportunity is especially convenient for empty nesters or people who work from home, given the unusual demands. Cindy asserts that Mosaic at Home always puts the individual served first; personal independence is a major priority. Pritchett still has a job at the Botanical Gardens, yet he also has people to come home to every night. Pritchett loves his new place. Though Cindy admits the first few days of welcoming someone new into your home is daunting, when you put in the effort, the rest tends to fall into place. “It’s just a great opportunity to give and yet to receive at the same time,” she said.

Question Month OF THE

Compiled by Melanie Wiseman

How do you avoid cabin fever when it’s cold out? William White “I’m 90 years young and go to Crossroads four times a week. I meet up once a week with a great group of people from my church, go out for lunch, spend time with my son and daughter, and visit my wife at Larchwood.”

Lin Irvin “I never have cabin fever because I’m always on the go. I make myself take one day a week off.”

OPEN YOUR HOME Those interested in learning more about Mosaic at Home should attend “Discover the Possibilities.” The orientation takes place the first Wednesday of every month at Mosaic’s Grand Junction headquarters on 2456 Industrial Blvd. “You’ll never, never feel like you are doing this alone,” Cindy said. Pritchett has found a home through Mosaic. He, and the many others the organization serve, are a reminder that while food, water and shelter are important, life is about more than just the essentials. It’s also having someone that loves you and is willing to welcome you home when you have nowhere else to go. For additional information, call Mosaic at 245-0519 or visit www. mosaicinfo.org. ■

Paul McCahon “I like the fact that you can dress for the weather and get outside. It’s a great feeling of freedom. I head outside in the cold when other people may stay indoors to stay away from it.”

Janet Jones “I don’t let it defeat me. I always get outside, even when I lived in Maine.”

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 |

TRAVEL

Walk the Nakasendo Way By Fyllis Hockman

hile Japan’s cities contain many unique traditional customs, it’s the countryside that holds the key to the island’s tranquility.

INTENTIONAL JAPANESE CUSTOMS A stop at a tea house illustrated a pervasive element of Japanese custom: the precision with which they do everything. Just the preparation of a simple cup of tea can be a time-consuming, labor-intensive, rule-bound ritualized ceremony. The same is true of a cocktail at a bar. Whether you prefer your drink shaken or stirred, an air of pomp and circumstance surrounds its presentation. Surprisingly, the toilet also falls into the realm of delightful personal discoveries—albeit all of them in the hotel bathroom of the Royal Park Hotel in Kyoto. First, a warm toilet seat with a variety of buttons cleaned more areas with water spray than I have nether region parts. Next, a portion of the large bathroom mirror remained perfectly

A Japanese tea master prepares a cup of tea.

26 | TRAVEL | MARCH 2020 |

I COULD SENSE THE SAMURAIS TRAVERSING THE SAME STONE STEPS, STOPPING FOR TEA AT THE SAME WOODEN TEA HOUSES.

clear even after an exceptionally steamy shower which coincidentally was the most invigorating I’ve ever had. All of these were a testament to Japanese ingenuity. Apparently, they don’t only make better cars.

RURAL EXTRAVAGANCE These amenities weren’t always available on our hikes through the countryside. My husband and I left Kyoto and headed into the country to follow the paths forged by feudal lords, daimyos and samurais of the 17th-19th centuries. We traversed the Kiso Road section of the Nakasendo Way—the ancient highway that connected Kyoto with Edo (present-day Tokyo) —walking about 8-10 miles a day. Post towns along the way afforded pilgrims refreshments and accommodations that felt and looked as old as they did in the 17th and 18th centuries. We spent the evenings at small travelers’ inns, with fluffy futons serving as our beds. The inns may have been small and simple, but the dinners

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Exploring the head, heart and soul of Japan

were not. Most consisted of banquet-style meals featuring multiple courses ranging from traditional to more recognizable offerings such as cooked fish. Despite not being a fan of Japanese food in general, I never left the table hungry. Having luxuriated in the bathrooms in Kyoto, ablutions took on a slightly different tenor in the countryside. I don’t usually shower and wash my hair before getting into a bath, but at the traveler’s inn in the rural town of O’Tsumago, this was the custom. And, as I’d learned, customs are one of the primary characteristics of Japanese society. Shower is somewhat of a misnomer— really, you’re sitting on a low stool next to a series of other low stools and rinsing yourself off with a shower head. Maybe “bath” is misleading as well. It was actually an assortment of hot pools in a tranquil outdoor setting. Although to me this seemed like a very unusual experience, our guide assured us it was an

My tour group dining in their yukata, a casual summer kimono.

TRAVEL everyday occurrence. Bathing was a communal activity. That sense of community carried over to meals in which the inn occupants tended to wear their yukatas—dressing robes provided by the inns—while sitting cross-legged on tatami mats. No dressing up for dinner. Conveniently, it saves a lot of space when packing.

LIVING HISTORY Our walk along Nakasendo Way was a measured pace with lots of stops for historic perspective, including a few steep but worthwhile uphill climbs. We meandered over trails through mountain passes and alongside Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. These religious sites were often surrounded by lush forests and the ever-present rumblings of brooks, rivers and waterfalls that provided an equal but different kind of tranquility to the many temples en route. I could sense the samurais traversing the same stone steps, stopping for tea at the same wooden tea houses and sitting on the same tatami mats. Every day was a new adventure. We passed sacred stone markings, old rice mills and monumental rock structures representing a variety of gods or demons, or homages to emperors and other human or spiritual deities. As we hiked there was a lot of taking off of shoes and putting on slippers...and then taking off those slippers and slipping into other slippers. It adds a whole new dimension to the concept of walking in someone else’s shoes.

BIG CITY BEGINNINGS Eventually it was time to return to the big city. Culture shock ensued going from the tranquility of the countryside to the sensory overload of Tokyo. The city center, however, does a very convincing impression of New York’s Times Square. Despite Tokyo’s high-rise modernity, the Edo Period (1602-1868) is still alive and well just below the surface. Our guide delighted in explaining this, using a collection of wood cuts and old photographs dating from the 1800s that he’d amassed in a mammoth book. He illustrated how every street corner, bridge, hidden side streets and major boulevards all had their beginning from the time Tokugawa arrived in 1590. The city’s rich history is not present in the buildings but in the layout of the city. I could see all the far-reaching accomplishments of the Tokugawa family shogunate, the daimyos and samurais who served them, the merchants and the horse traders who lived there. “See this,” he pointed to a historical illustration time and time again, “This is where we are now!” Although the two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto, added breadth and scope to the experience, it was the richness and depth of culture of the Nakasendo Way that made the journey so meaningful. As I was going through security at Narita Airport, having to remove my shoes did not feel as oppressive an activity as it usually does. I felt right at home...until I asked a surprised TSA agent for a pair of slippers. ■

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rch.

your sprin-

FAITH

How is your soil? By Vic Stinemetze

and don’t understand it. Then the rowing up on my father’s farm evil one comes and snatches away in central Kansas, I loved the the seed that was planted in their spring and early summer months. hearts. Trees were leafing and blooming. “The seed on the rocky soil Everything was green. There was represents those who hear the the pungent smell of locust trees message and immediately receive it and lilac bushes. Everything seemed with joy. But since they don’t have so clean and fresh. It was also a deep roots, they don’t last long. time of planting and harvesting. They fall away as soon as they have My father would meticulously problems or are persecuted for prepare the soil for the new seed believing God’s word. to be planted, carefully turning “The seed that fell among the the topsoil upside down with his thorns represents those who hear equipment. Weeds would begin to God’s word, but all too quickly the decay and add their nutrients back message is crowded out by the into the soil. The topsoil would be worries of this life and the lure of made soft and supple to receive the wealth, so no fruit is produced. new seed. “But the seed that fell on good All the sorghums—milo, cane soil represents those who truly hear and sedan grass—would be plantand understand God’s word and ed in the spring to be harvested produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or the coming fall. Winter wheat that even a hundred times as much as had been planted the previous fall has been planted.” would begin to get heads of grain, If we are to grow and produce and then slowly turn golden to be fruit in the Kingdom of God, we harvested in late June. must meticulously prepare the soil In MatthewDemonstrating 13:2-9 (NLT), Jesus theofLove our hearts to receive word of of Christ to the Our Commun told the story of a farmer who went God. Prepare by studying Scripout to sow seeds. ture, praying and listening to sound “Some seeds fell on a footpath, teaching. As we clear away the and the birds came and ate them. distractions of the world, we allow Other seeds fell on shallow soil God to prepare our hearts and we with underlying rock. The seeds produce a crop of even 100 times sprouted quickly because the soil what has been planted. He who was shallow. But the plants soon has ears to hear should listen and wilted under the hot sun, and since understand. ■ they didn’t have deep roots, they Help a Neighbor in Need died. Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the Over ShareFest Weekend tender plants. But other seeds fell April 25-26, 2020 on fertile soil, and they produced a Need help with yard work or crop that was thirty, sixty, and even around the house? a hundred times as much as had been planted.” Submit a need March 9-April 17 (Please note that every need is considJesus ended the parable by ered, but not all can be accepted) saying, “Anyone with ears to hear Want to volunteer? should listen and understand.” All volunteers are welcome. Later on, he explained the deep meaning of the parable to his disciThere is no deadline! ples. Apply to volunteer or submit a “The seed that fell on the footneed at www.gjsharefest.com path represents those who hear or call 778-4880. the message about the Kingdom

SHAREFESTWEEKEND April 24&25, 2010

APRIL 25 - 26, 2020 VOLUNTEER TO SERVE YOUR NEIGHBORS. Deadline to submit a project request is April 17. ShareFest is an annual event bringing the churches in the greater Mesa County area together to visibly demonstrate the love of Christ through united prayer, a day of serving in the community, sharing service projects, food, and celebrating together God’s goodness.

A CITY WIDE EVENT TO SUBMIT A PROJECT OR VOLUNTEER:

Call: 970-778-4880 Email: gjsharefest@gmail.com Demonstrating the Love of Christ to Our Community Website: www.gjsharefest.com

970-778-4880

www.g jsharefest.com

What can we do for you? Redlands land sales flier 1920s.

28 | FAITH | MARCH 2020 |

Courtesy Charles Rump family collection.

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SHAREFESTWEEKEND

April 24&25, 201

A CITY WIDE EVENT

What can we do for you?

You have zero privacy. Get over it. EVEN IF YOU AVOID GOOGLE AND HAVE RESISTED SOCIAL MEDIA, YOUR FRIENDS LIKELY HAVE NOT. YOU ARE A CONTACT IN THEIR CELL PHONES, WHICH ARE CONNECTED TO GOOGLE, FACEBOOK, AMAZON, ETC..

cott McNealy, co-founder and former CEO of Sun Microsystems, famously told a group of reporters, “You have zero privacy anyway…Get over it!” The year was 1999. The Internet as we know it was barely five years old. There was no Facebook, Google or Twitter. eBay was four years old, but they were barely starting to accept credit cards. Paypal wouldn’t exist for another three years. If McNealy observed that privacy was obsolete in 1999, what must he think of today’s world of social media, smartphones and international commerce via the Internet? Over the next 10-20 years, it will be virtually impossible to live off the grid or be a digital hermit.

FOR EXAMPLE... If you have a Gmail address, go to www.myaccount.google.com/ dashboard. Scroll through and explore everything Google knows

about you. If you use an Android phone, this will be especially eye-opening. Now, go to www.google.com/ maps/timeline. If you have Google Maps or other Google apps installed on your phone (even if it’s an iPhone), you will see a timeline of virtually everywhere you’ve been on any given date. Nearly every app you have installed on your phone and every website you visit knows more about you than you expect. Companies are as interested in the items you almost buy as the ones you actually buy. Have you ever contemplated purchasing something on Amazon? You look it up on a regular basis to check the price and read reviews, you add it to your virtual cart, remove it, add it again. When Amazon spots that activity, they often ship the item to the nearest warehouse so that it will arrive quickly once you decide to pull the trigger. Some people still avoid using their credit or debit cards on the Internet. What’s odd is that they don’t take much time to think

about how their card information travels instantaneously from the grocery store to the bank. When you use your loyalty card at a retail store, you are providing your data to that company (what you bought, which items were on sale, how often you buy certain products). Your shopping information is connected to your home address, phone number and any other information you provided to register for the card.

DON’T PANIC I don’t say this to scare or intimidate you into a state of paranoia. While it’s true that you have no privacy, at least in regards to your identity, there is a lot of value in reflecting on the second part of McNealy’s comment: “Get over it.” I’m not implying that you should offer up all of your deepest secrets

TALKING DIGITAL

to Facebook or Amazon. But I do think that it’s pointless to attempt to be invisible. Even if you avoid Google and have resisted social media, your friends likely have not. You are a contact in their cell phones, which are connected to Google, Facebook, Amazon, etc. Data companies are able to connect the dots and form a profile of you by connecting what is known about you by all of these individual companies. As tempting as it may seem to be a digital hermit, it’s important to acknowledge that those who have “gotten over it” are probably communicating with their kids more frequently, sharing photos with friends and family more often, saving money by purchasing goods online and discovering new horizons. There are trade-offs to confronting your digital agoraphobia and venturing into cyberspace. But, the truth is, you can’t opt out of having a unique digital identity. You can only choose whether or not you want to be oblivious to your daily contributions toward that digital identity. ■

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

Refresh and Renew

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970 644-5200

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The Volunteer of the Year is someone who goes above and beyond in making a difference in the lives of others. The winner will be announced at BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair at Two Rivers Convention Center on Thursday, April 16. With so many volunteers to choose from, we’re leaving it up to you, dear readers, to vote for this year’s Volunteer of the Year.

VOL

T H E YE

Vote online (easiest)

Mail-in ballot

Step 1: Go to www.BeaconSeniorNews.com Step 2: Click “Vote for Volunteer of the Year” to be

You can also mail in a ballot on the next page. Ballots must be received by April 10, 2020 so plan ahead. Mail your ballot to:

directed to the ballot.

Step 3: Fill out the ballot by providing your name and

email address, then pick your favorite volunteer. (We will never send you unwanted emails or pass your information along to a third party.)

BEACON Senior News P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

Step 4: Click “Submit”

Laurie Buniger

Nominated by Vida Jaber, Museums of Western Colorado Laurie has been an exceptional volunteer at the Museum of the West, especially in the Loyd Files Research Library. She has aided the library for many years and completes projects thoroughly and quickly, making her a huge asset in the museum’s re-accreditation process. She organizes the obituaries, re-files the library bookshelves, assists in genealogy, organizes and digitizes two large documentary collections and reestablishes our large oral history collection! Laurie comes in with a wonderful attitude, interacts with everyone and often takes her work home to type inventory lists. Laurie is one of the many volunteers that keep this institution going. Thank you, Laurie, for all your hard work!

Randy Cook

Nominated by Crystal Brink, Mantey Heights Rehabilitation & Care Center Randy comes in every day, rain, snow or shine, without fail. He visits every resident at Mantey Heights, and learns their likes and dislikes. The residents look forward to seeing him every day and the staff can rely on him to assist as appropriate. He is always cheerful. Even if he is having a rough day, he never shows it. He is a great volunteer for Mantey Heights and we are lucky to have him.

Karen Hughes

Nominated by Megan Tillotson, Roice-Hurst Humane Society Karen has been an exceptional volunteer at Roice-Hurst Humane Society since 2014. Last year, she gave over 570 hours of her time preparing thank you notes to every donor who gave to our organization— that’s thousands of thank you notes! With a personal touch, Karen ensures that our donors feel the appreciation they deserve, and we are honored to do the same for her. Karen has given countless hours of her time to Roice-Hurst over the years, preparing kennel cards for our cats and kittens, helping with administrative tasks, and being willing to

30 | MARCH 2020 |

VOLUNTEER of the YEAR

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take on anything she is asked to do. Karen’s dedication to helping shelter pets—and showing our gratitude to those who do the same—is essential to our organization.

Jerry Johnson

Nominated by HopeWest Jerry is a Marine veteran and a man with a huge heart. He is multilingual and a multi-talented man, serving as a HopeWest volunteer, a Spiritual Assembly volunteer, a Character Development for Youth volunteer and a member of the Grand Valley Interfaith Network. Like the Marines’ motto, “Semper Fi,” Jerry is always faithful. He became part of the HopeWest family in 2018 because he wanted to be of service to others. In 2019, he volunteered 914 hours, logging 238 volunteer shifts. Of that, he volunteers for a wide array of programs within HopeWest: as a patient care volunteer he made 65 visits, and as a trained vigil volunteer he sat in 18 vigils. He helped at HopeWest’s Kids Camp as well as the Itty Bitty Camp, where staff shared that “he is sensitive to the kids’ needs and open with sharing his personal experience in a way the kids can relate.” One staff member calls Jerry her “work husband” because he makes sure everyone is provided with water, coffee and treats.

Tricia Powell

Nominated by Sheryl Click, Hilltop Community Resources Tricia is an inspiration to everyone around her because of the level of energy and dedication she brings to volunteering for three of Hilltop’s programs. Tricia has been a Hilltop volunteer since March 2017, and gives over 250 hours of service to Hilltop programs annually. As a driver for Supporting Our Seniors (SOS), she helps transport homebound seniors 60 and older to doctor appointments, the grocery store or pharmacy every Monday. As a cooking assistant for Cooking Matters, she helps staff organize and set up for classes and gives out program information at community outreach events. At Residential Youth Services, she helps maintain, organize and complete youth files by auditing them once a youth is discharged from the facility. She also helps with other

BEACON SENIOR NEWS organizational tasks, such as reviewing and adjusting apartment grocery lists for staff. Tricia truly puts people first, and in doing so, supports Hilltop to fulfill its mission in our community. Tricia also volunteers with the Grand Junction Police Department and CSU Cooperative Extension.

Barb Kremski

Nominated by Amy Neil, STEAM at Tope Elementary Barb (“Grandma Barb,” as we call her) has been in our classroom for two years now. She is always so helpful to us. She reads with us, she helps us zip up our jackets, passes out snacks, hugs us when we need it, fixes our boo-boos, finds interesting ways to teach us something new and gives us all good advice for the future. We love having Grandma Barb in our classroom!

Cathy Thomas

Nominated by Diane Barger, Mesa County RSVP Cathy Thomas has made a tremendous difference for children and adults in this community and has been instrumental in supporting RSVP. She has tutored children in School District 51 for the past five years through the RSVP Senior Scholar Project, helping them improve their reading skills. Cathy truly cares about the students as individuals. Cathy’s teacher, Ms. Bullen at Orchard Avenue Elementary, said, “She is kind, welcoming, understanding, dedicated and hard working. Mrs. Thomas goes beyond the work of typical volunteers. She makes connections with kids, and they love and adore her. She has a passion for helping children learn, whether it’s academics, social and emotional skills, or spreading the Lord’s word.” Cathy also makes blankets for Project Linus. Additionally, she took on the responsibility of assisting RSVP in a key administrative role, adding creativity to expand the program to reach more volunteers in the community. Cathy also supports RSVP SHIP, which assists Medicare recipients to understand their benefits.

Deborah Thompson

Nominated by Rosa Culver, Shelledy Elementary “Miss Deb,” as we call her, has been with us for two years as our Foster Grandmother. In that short amount of time, she has become an essential part of our classroom and community. Every day she comes to school with a warm smile, her heart full of love for the students and true excitement for the

Vote for your favorite Volunteer of the Year! With so many volunteers to choose from, we need your help! All volunteers will be recognized and the winner will be announced at BeaconFest, Thursday, April 16 at Two Rivers Convention Center.

day. Her positive attitude is contagious. Students depend on her. They feel valued and wanted in her company. She works with students every day and often asks for help and guidance to improve her craft because she truly cares about their learning. Students are excited to learn and show off their achievements to her. They also are comfortable sharing their struggles with her because they know she won’t judge them and will help them overcome their struggles. Miss Deb is a model Foster Grandmother. If every class could have a Miss Deb, students everywhere would know they are loved and know they belong.

Ed Wacker

Nominated by Tami Bunch, VA Western Colorado Health Care System Ed has been volunteering at the Grand Junction VA Medical Center since 2010 and has given over 5,515 hours! His smile brightens our hallways as he greets patients and staff on his twice-daily mail run, every Tuesday and Thursday. Rain or shine, Ed comes twice a week to help out at our hospital. With close to 200 volunteers at the VA, its hard for staff to get to know all of them, but everyone knows Ed. He is optimistic and cheerful, always willing to help others, and a very good talker—just ask, but make sure you have a more than a few minutes to hear his answer! The veterans and staff at the VA Medical Center are extremely blessed to have such a bright example of volunteering in Ed Wacker.

Becky Walker

Nominated by Carole Chowen, Grand Valley Pets Alive

Becky has been amazing in her efforts to rescue companion animals. She has rushed across town to bring supplies to orphaned newborn kittens, assisted those who need help with TNR (trap-neuter-return), fostered kittens, rescued lost dogs and transported cats to shelters across the mountains. When she received a diagnosis of cancer in four areas of her body, she barely slowed down. Becky keeps up her rescue work while receiving infusions, radiation and dealing with the side effects. She volunteers for Grand Valley Pets Alive and other rescue groups in Mesa County and beyond. ■

1) Read about each volunteer 2) Choose your favorite volunteer:

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Laurie Buniger Randy Cook Karen Hughes Jerry Johnson Barb Kremski

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Tricia Powell Cathy Thomas Deborah Thompson Ed Wacker Becky Walker

3) Cast your vote Vote online at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com or mail this ballot to: BEACON Senior News, PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 The last day to vote is April 15. Mail-in ballots must be received by Friday, April 10.

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 |

LOCAL LORE

Ellen Roberts: Fruita farm girl to show girl!

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Ellen Roberts shows off her numerous medals from the Western Colorado Senior Games. Photos by Melanie Wiseman.

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ith a resume full of dancing, comedy and entertainment galore, it’s hard to believe Ellen Roberts ever described herself as “bashful.” On the cusp of turning 99, she remains active and serves as an unofficial inspirational senior ambassador for the valley. “Everywhere I go, everyone knows me and is always so happy to see me, and I like that,” said Roberts. “I enjoy volunteering and helping others. Whatever is asked of me, I try to do.”

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Born in Branson, Missouri, Roberts was just a baby when her parents and older brother traveled through 20 states in a Ford Model T before settling in Palisade in 1922 during peach harvest. They fell in love with Fruita, and homesteaded on a farm where the Co-op now stands, using Douglas Pass for their cattle during the summer. “I was a real country girl who pitched hay, cleaned ditches, split

wood, milked cows, washed clothes on a rub board, worked in the fields and chopped off a lot of chicken heads,” she said.” As a child, life was about work, school and church. Roberts said her parents inspired a good work ethic, which she passed on to her three children and a great-grandson, whom she raised. Farm life wasn’t easy. Roberts survived typhoid fever from drinking ditch water, the family’s two-story house burned down when she was in third grade, and she tragically lost her father at a young age after he was bucked off a horse. But she also remembers the bright spots: visiting the farm where Mike the Headless Chicken was alive and well at the time, participating in high school glee club skits, and sleeping in the corner of barns while her parents enjoyed community dances. After her junior year in high school, newly-married Roberts left Colorado for Oklahoma and then

LOCAL LORE

EVERY YEAR AT FRUITA’S MIKE THE HEADLESS CHICKEN FESTIVAL, PEOPLE ASK FOR HER AUTOGRAPH AND PICTURES OF HER IN HER SIGNATURE CHICKEN HAT. California with her sweetheart. For 25 years, Roberts worked as a shipyard welder and laborer. In her early 60s, Roberts moved back to Fruita to be a caregiver for her mom and stepdad, and countless other relatives and friends. She has outlived two husbands and all three of her children. “I’ve been a caregiver my whole life,” said Roberts. “Some people get sad or down as they get older... but I get over that and stay busy.”

to the Grand Valley “But then I learned about all these places you could go to dance and things to do, and now I’m not bashful anymore,” said Roberts. “I’m a good entertainer and keep everybody laughing.” Roberts discovered line dancing, hula dancing and belly dancing. She performed dances regularly across the Western Slope at hospitals, nursing homes and special events, sometimes four or five nights a week! She also did staging, PR and made costumes. She and her dear friend, Mary Lee Bowen, have entertained at numerous BeaconFests and other occasions as the hilarious Patsy Cline Wannabes. After attending a Patsy Cline impersonator show in Branson, Roberts told Bowen their act was better and she was ready to get up and show it! “I was quiet and didn’t do anything until I met Ellen,” said Bowen. “She taught me everything I know, and she’s an inspiration to so many people.”

instrumental in overseeing can collection and recycling for 10 years. Her work enabled them to receive a matching grant. She still collects cans today, which helps fund smaller Fruita Civic Center projects. Her involvement as a volunteer includes 37 years at the Moose Lodge, a Fruita Lioness, a Boy and Girl Scouts den mother, RSVP, Fruita Thrift Store and a Thursday regular at the Grand Junction Senior Center to name just a few. Roberts is a fixture at many local events. Every year at Fruita’s Mike the Headless Chicken Festival, people ask for her autograph and pictures of her in her signature chicken hat. “I won three years in a row doing

the chicken dance for the longest time, maybe 30 minutes each time,” said Roberts. “I don’t want to win that anymore!” Every August, Roberts participates in 16 events at the Western Colorado Senior Games, winning a stash of gold medals. Shot put, disc golf, softball slug, corn hole, horseshoes, long jump, golf chipping and track—Roberts struts her stuff. “The first time I started crying before the finish line because it meant so much to me that I could do it—more than all my medals,” she said. For a great-great-great-greatgrandmother whose mottos are staying busy and giving back, Roberts succeeds at both. ■

GIVING BACK When not performing, Roberts attended every Fruita Community Center planning meeting and was

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Above: Ellen demonstrates one of her signature moves Left: Ellen with friend and fellow Patsy Cline Wannabe, Mary Lee Bowen.

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | LOCAL LORE |

FINANCE

Autopay is great unless you go on autopilot

Retirement living with the emphasis on living

By Karen Telleen-Lawton

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

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34 | FINANCE | MARCH 2020 |

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utopay is a lovely feature for those of us who are getting forgetful (or have always been). Scheduling payment of your recurring bills makes sure your bills get paid on time, which can be a big boost to your credit score. Plus, you don’t have to think about it while you’re traveling. As with anything you put on automatic, however, it can trip you up if you’re not paying attention.

A CAUTIONARY TALE It started two years ago when our home was burglarized. For the burglar, the haul was pretty dismal: an aging computer and a few credit cards. No cash, no drugs, no jewels. For my husband and me, the financial pain was annoying but below our high insurance deductible. However, the administrative pain we later experienced was enormous and continues despite the fact that our identities were not stolen. After we replaced the passwords, the computer, credit cards and changed bank accounts, we moved on with our lives. That is, until last month when we inexplicably lost all water pressure. Living in the foothills, our water pressure is frustratingly variable, so I ignored it until the evening. Then

I encountered a pathetic dribble from the shower faucet, forcing me to realize something was wrong. We walked around outside in the dark listening for leaks. Everything was quiet. We took army showers and went to bed hoping the problem would resolve itself. We’d been traveling frequently, so I thought that perhaps we missed a notice of a planned shutoff. When we woke up in the morning, we still had no water pressure. We finally called the water hotline. That’s when we found out the water had been turned off for non-payment of our bill. Excuse me? I’ll skip the details of multiple phone calls and my rush down to city hall to pay. When we unearthed the errant bill, received the week before our shut-off, it did not list any “past due charges.” The bill showed “Payment - Thank You” plus one anomaly “administrative charges” neatly tucked into the list of “current charges due.” Later, we found the definition of administrative charges in tiny print on the back of the bill: “returned check.” No warning, no big red letters, nothing indicating that we were facing a shut-off. The city supposedly mailed a separate letter

FINANCE

nd out how Raymond James can help with your financial plan. • Retirement stating our Planning water would be shut off own policy changes: if we didn’t Strategies pay within 10 days. We • Investment 1. Keep a list of every company you have Planning yet to find that letter. have on autopay, including contact • Estate The city staff that helped us through this process was courteous. One person suggested that we might be experiencing the same problem as other rejected autopay customers who had recently changed bank information over the last couple of years.

AUTOPAY, YES. AUTOPILOT, NO.

information.

2. When you change credit cards, proactively inform companies of any changed information. This includes when your card expires and when you get a card with a new expiration date. 3. Consider signing up for overdraft protection. This feature draws from your savings or a line of credit if an automated expense exceeds your balance.

We’ve been on autopay for decades, so we don’t focus on our bill’s amount due. Instead, we tear 4. Even when you’re on autopay, open the envelope to check on open each bill and see whether it our water usage. We look to see meets your expectations. In other whether we improved this year for words, when you’re on autopay that month or check for evidence don’t go on autopilot. of a leak. It turns out that the city was still Just as I finished drafting our using our pre-burglary bank acsimple personal policy, Meet Kent Shettler. He’s here to help younew reach yourbillfinancial count number. Our bank honored it the water came back on. I took a ndependence and will be happy to speak with you in person. for 18 months before finally rejectshower in the middle of the day and ing it. I’d like to change city policy, enjoyed every minute of it. Mindful but as they say, “You can’t fight city of the next bill, I still kept it to five hall.” So instead I’ve created my minutes. ■

WORKING HARD TO HELP YOUR MONEY GO FARTHER Find out how Bank of Colorado Investment Services can help with your financial plan. • Retirement Planning • Investment Strategies • Estate Planning Meet Kent Shettler. He’s here to help you reach your financial independence and will be happy to speak with you in person. KENT SHETTLER Financial Advisor

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Investment Services Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, an independent broker/ dealer, and are: NOT Deposits. NOT Insured by FDIC or any other government agency. NOT GUARANTEED by the bank Subject to risk and may lose value. Raymond James is not affiliated with the financial institution or the investment center. Bank of Colorado and Bank of Colorado Investment Services are not registered broker/ dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

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WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | FINANCE |

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hose early days of retirement can be exciting as you are finally rewarded with a little rest and relaxation after all those years of toil. But it can also be a bit unsettling when the regular paychecks you counted on stop appearing in your bank account. That’s why anyone who’s still a few years away from retirement should ask themselves: Am I ready for that moment both financially and emotionally? The answer could come down to whether you have a solid retirement plan—or a plan at all. “Regardless of how much you accumulate for your retirement, poor planning or lack of planning can put you at risk of exhausting your resources,” said Tad Hill, a retirement planner and author of “Retire with Freedom.” According to Hill, people nearing the end of their working years should follow this five-step process for a more secure retirement:

1) CREATE YOUR IDEAL PICTURE OF RETIREMENT. What is it you want out of retirement? To travel? Volunteer? Spend time with grandkids? The first step isn’t about your financial portfolio; it’s about forming a clear image of your ideal retirement. “Otherwise, even though your money may last the rest of your life, you may never achieve your dreams because you’re unclear on your dreams,” Hill said.

2) PUT YOUR SITUATION TO THE “STRESS TEST.” With the help of a financial professional, give your retirement plan a “stress test.” That can include reviewing how to best maximize your Social Security benefits and

examining how your portfolio might perform under a variety of market scenarios. “Analyze all the factors that could affect your retirement plan over the next few decades and create a strategy for dealing with those risk factors with as much certainty as possible,” Hill advised.

3) DESIGN YOUR PLAN. Designing a retirement plan is much like creating the blueprint for a house. These blueprints, however, identify strategies available to help minimize risk, increase certainty, avoid excess taxes and assure a sufficient retirement income. Some concerns that need to be addressed include income, investment, health care, tax and legacy planning.

4) BUILD THE PLAN. It’s time to implement your plan. “That can mean making changes to your current structure, adding some things and getting rid of others,” Hill added.

5) SEEK CONTINUED GUIDANCE. Even a great retirement plan may need tweaks and adjustments over the years. With his clients, Hill holds a regular yearly consultation to help ensure they are on the right pathway to retirement success at all times. “You need to look at whether there are things that have changed in your life that need attention,” he said. It’s important to remember that there are no guarantees of anything in life, including retirement plans. “But taking action to create a solid and well-thought-out plan for this important part of your life is a critical first step,” Hill said. ■

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Unity drives change

The men who supported women’s fight for social change By Bonnie McCune

wenty-six years ago, in 1993, a group of Colorado women, including me, launched a commemoration of the state’s women’s suffrage. As I became involved with the project, I learned about the history of women’s political efforts. Women’s rights came more quickly out here. Perhaps that’s because the Homestead Act of 1862 allowed single, widowed, divorced or deserted women to file for property ownership. Or because married women on homesteads and ranches often had to assume men’s responsibilities and equal amounts of hard duties to keep the holdings afloat. The personalities, strengths, weaknesses and emotions of notable women make for an exciting and educational account. But women’s fight for change also came with the help of the men who supported them.

COME TOGETHER If it weren’t for my husband, I wouldn’t have ventured on my own empowering journey of social change. Years ago, when my children were babies, my husband and I decided that family responsibilities were a benefit as well as a responsibility. We decided to alternate between childcare and employment to support our family. This began as a one-year period but quickly extended to two, then five-year rotations when we realized no one would hire us for any kind of decent wage if we constantly hopped in and out of jobs. The first five years were my assignment. Because a stay-athome mom wasn’t unusual, no one

blinked an eye. However, when we rotated, the response changed. Upon learning my husband was trying his hand at writing, one woman congratulated me on letting him be “the creative one,” never acknowledging my struggles at composing the written word. Other responses included sly comments about his “alcohol problem,” “lack of job skills,” or “no ambition.” None were true. The first step in our unusual transition was my husband’s. One day, when the kids were very little, he offered to let me have an entire day each week to do whatever I wanted while he took care of the house and children. I pulled out a piece of paper and toted up the number of hours I normally spent on my chores. When I realized the accumulated time was well over 10 hours a day, seven days a week, while he was working eight hours a day, five days a week, I surrendered without complaint. Colorado was the first state to institute votes for women through a popular vote. (In other words, men voted to endorse the move.) So just as women’s right to vote in Colorado was approved by men, my personal voyage to women’s lib was launched and sustained by a man—my husband. Is this often true of social change? Maybe. Certainly, the prohibition on slavery never would have occurred without the support of white men and women. The realization that children deserved protection from excessive labor and horrid conditions came from adults. If the #MeToo movement bears productive results, it will occur because people of all genders support it and come together in a spirit of goodwill. ■

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243-3381 WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 |

BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT

A home for history

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We would be LUCKY to have you volunteer with us! St. Mary’s Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs are experiencing growth, and we want you to be a part of that!

year – volunteer with us! Our team of “Fabulous-Over-55” volunteers spends time each helping those in our community who most need it. Foster ing can beday huge? Volunteerkeep you Grandparents mentally stimulatnurture students in the classroom. Senior e offering vital help to people Companions help those who no longer drive take care of ect with thenecessary community, learn while building friendships. errands

alisade’s history reveals a story of hardworking and innovative people who recognized the area’s potential and developed it into the “peach and wine capital” it is today. For the past 10 years, the Palisade Historical Society has preserved the town’s intriguing history. This year, however, it will open its first permanent publicly accessible history museum. Priscilla Walker, chair of the historical society’s board of directors, is excited about the new addition to the town. “The new museum will give people a perspective on where we came from and the sacrifices our predecessors made—an appreciation of what these people did and what they accomplished,” said Walker.

A MUSEUM WITHOUT A HOME The museum has been a long time coming. When the historical society was incorporated in 2010, it existed as a virtual museum for two years until a small office became available in the Palisades National Bank on Main Street. The organization oper-

ated the History Center there until 2017, when they had to relinquish the space. Even without a public space, the society continued to stay visible in the community by presenting programs to schools, senior living centers and other groups, while also giving guided walking tours and teaching classes at nearby colleges. But the organization yearned to secure a permanent museum space.

THEY DON’T TEACH THIS IN SCHOOLS In 2018, Palisade history finally found a home. Kirk and Cyndy Bunte offered the organization a long-term, low-cost lease on a log shop on Highway 6 near Elberta Avenue. The shop had been built by Kirk’s grandfather, George Bunte, Jr. Once remodeling work on the shop is complete, popular items from the society’s stint at the bank building will be on display again. Historical objects include 73 years of Palisade High School senior class photos, fruit box labels from Palisade growers, memorabilia from the Cameo Mercantile and coal mine, and momentos from long-

When you join us as a Senior Companion or Foster Grandparent volunteer, you will give much-needed time and attention to or Foster Grandparent volunatathome or children in the classroom, but you get so attention toseniors seniors home t so muchmuch back,back, too! too! You'llHugs, smiles, appreciation, great conversation Make a and changethe for your health this – volunteer with us! reward ofyear seeing someone you care about grow — all ion, great conversation and Did you know that the benefits of volunteering can be huge? Volunteerof these are priceless. ’d loveing to youcombat figure out keep you mentally stimulatcan help reduce stress, depression,

ed, and provide a sense of purpose. While offering vital help to people in need, you can build relationships, connect with the community, learn new skills, and be happier!

We’d love to help you figure out where you’d fit in. We need volunteers for both programs in all Mak When you join us as a Senior Companion or Foster Grandparent volune teer, you areas will give much-needed time and attention to seniors at home of the Grand Valley but have a special h eart your or children in the classroom, but you get so much back, too! You'll be rewarded with hugs, appreciation, great conversationin and need for smiles, Senior Companions Fruita and Call happy.. seeing someone you care about grow. We’d love to help you figure out . toda where you’d fit in. Palisade. appl y to y! Call today to apply!

298-9091

(970)298-9092

38 | BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT | MARCH 2020 |

George Bunte’s former shop, now the future home of the Palisade History Museum to open as early as spring.

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BEACON GUIDE HIGHLIGHT Time and materials were donated by master electrician Gary Rupp, Russ Bell, Whitewater Building Materials and MIB Construction, among others. Currently, interior walls have been framed in and the drywall is set to be hung. Completion is expected in the late spring or early summer. ■

Left: Palisade Historical Society continues to raise funds to complete the renovation for the new museum. Top: Museum illustration by Gayle Madden. time U.S. Rep. Wayne N. Aspinall, who grew up in Palisade. In addition, history aficionados can look forward to seeing a 1951 Chevrolet orchard hoopie and many of the thousands of photos from the society’s collection, including those depicting early fruit growers’ inventions. “This will be a huge educational resource,” noted Walker. “It will showcase Palisade’s history—a history they don’t teach in schools.”

THE MAKING OF A MUSEUM Before work on the pre-1939 shop could begin, the organization faced two hurdles: raising funds and navigating the permit process. With the help of nonprofit consultant Illene Roggensack, the organization received grants from the Bacon Family Foundation and Goodwin Foundation, and the Town of Palisade pledged $15,000 for the project. Architect and historical society board member Jaime Cox, who do-

nated her time to the effort, drew up plans for transforming the Bunte Shop into a museum space. “Structurally, we’re putting new bones into the existing skin,” Cox said. The facility will be ADA compliant with a handicapped parking area. Inside, the facility will feature recessed and track lighting, and storage space will be available in the loft. Construction began in January.

SUPPORT THE PALISADE HISTORICAL SOCIETY The historical society has raised $85,000 of the $125,000 needed to complete the museum. At the moment, construction has caught up to the fundraising. To support the museum, visit www.historicpalisade.org or mail checks to: Palisade Historical Society P.O. Box 631 Palisade, CO 81526

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COMMUNITY CONCERTS OF THE GRAND VALLEY • 2020 SERIES

By Jan Weeks

o you believe in coincidence? The Sons of Serendip definitely do. These four men—through “coincidences”—found each other and created one of the hottest pop music groups around. The four-man band blends classical instruments with pop songs to create memorable performances. The group was a finalist on America’s Got Talent’s (AGT) ninth season. Though they were sent home from the TV show, they went on to become one of the most popular groups in music today. According to lead singer Micah Christian, AGT was their big break. All of the men were attending Boston University (BU). “The audition was our first performance together,” Christian said. “I called the guys and asked if they’d be interested.” They went into the audition intending to have fun and simply see what happened. By the time the competition’s finals rolled around, they wanted to win, so going home stung a little. But Christian credits it for the band’s start. They chose from a number of interested agencies and managers and used crowdfunding to produce their first album independently.

A LIVELIHOOD THEY LOVE All four grew up in musical households. Christian studied classical vocal music in order to learn voice and breathing techniques. Cordaro Rodriguez taught himself to play piano at age 10 and now plays several other instruments. Kendall Ramseur picked up the cello also at age 10 when the orchestra director laid all the instruments out on the floor and told them to pick the one that spoke to them. Mason Morton

40 | MARCH 2020 |

didn’t know what a harp was until someone offered to teach him how to play it. Since then, they have all created a livelihood they love. The group’s name reflects the serendipitous choices that brought them all to BU. Christian had to choose between accepting an offer to work with Teach for America (TFA) or study theology. On the day his decision was due, the TFA recruiter told him that something within her said he should go to the university. Ramseur spent an evening in prayer to decide which graduate school offer to accept, and the next morning, a voice whispered, “Boston University.” Morton’s harp teacher at Rice University in Houston sent him to study under her former mentor, a graduate instructor at BU. Rodriguez’s prelaw instructor suggested he study at Boston College, but Rodriguez mistakenly applied to Boston University. Their faith drives their lives, and they rely on it to take them where they need to be. They’re also big on being of service. Christian spent time volunteering to teach English and physical education in Honduras. He and his wife, Jocelyn, did similar work in Peru. Rodriguez spent a year teaching English in Ecuador, also as a volunteer. The group believes their success is due to creating music differently, thanks to Rodriguez’s arrangements. “We try to create an experience in concerts so the audience feels like we’re sharing a moment together,” said Christian. Share this unique concert experience with Sons of Serendip when they perform in Grand Junction this month! ■

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photo: Dina K. Photography

Sons of Serendip up next

SEE THEM LIVE! Sons of Serendip March 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Grand Junction High School auditorium Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Individual event tickets can be purchased for $25 for adults if seats are available. For more information, visit www.communityconcertsgrandvalley.org or call 243-1979. NOTE: For those of you who held on to your Rockapella tickets after the canceled December concert, the group will perform at GJHS on Sunday, March 29 at 3 p.m.

WIN TICKETS FROM THE BEACON! Enter at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com or mail your name and phone number along with this article to: BEACON Senior News, PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502. You will be entered into a drawing for two tickets to see Sons of Serendip at Grand Junction High School. Winners will be notified by Wednesday, March 11. Congratulations to Sharon Tinsman, last month’s winner of 2 tickets to The Association!

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Thanks for the memories

Lori Rienstra shared memories with members of The Association backstage at Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s January performance.

Grand Junction woman connects with band members decades later By Jan Weeks

here was nothing to distinguish Lori Rienstra’s childhood home, a two-story white, dormered house on Elmwood Street in an older area of Los Angeles, from the others in the neighborhood. Except that her house had a sign over the front door that read, “Wilshire Fine Arts Studios.” The living room was outfitted with a piano and ballet barres, and the California house also doubled as a recording studio for musicians. Musicians such as The Men. Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s January performance sparked a lot of memories for Rienstra. In 1965, when she was only 6 years old, a band known as The Men gathered in her living

room to practice. “They were practicing a song they wrote, ‘Never, My Love,’” Rienstra, now 60, said. Sound familiar? If you’re a boomer, it should. The band went on to become The Association, one of the most famous folk rock bands in history. Rienstra remembers singing along with them, and even believes her mother suggested the band’s future name. Members then included drummer Jim Bluechel, Jr., who left his old drum cases behind at her house when he bought new ones. “We used those cases as trash cans for years,” Rienstra remembered. Brian Cole, the bass player and vocalist, used to play children’s

games with her on the stairs. Sadly, he died of a drug overdose in 1972, leaving a young son, Jordan, behind. When the band came to the Grand Valley this year, Rienstra went backstage before the Grand Junction concert and met with several members, including Jordan, who now plays the keyboard and sings. Another thrill for Rienstra was visiting with frontman Jim Yester. She showed him his signature in her autographed book, as well as

pictures of her old house. She also boasts multiple signed LP album covers by the band. For Rienstra—and probably the rest of the audience—the concert sparked music memories and took them back to times of fun, love, laughter and those special songs that brought pleasure to so many. Rienstra’s mental scrapbook now has a few more filled pages from an unforgettable experience that brought 1965 to life once more. ■

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hen a park ranger near my home reported that the great blue herons had returned, I knew spring had truly arrived. These amazing birds nest in a rookery close to the south shore of a nearby lake. It’s an ideal place to view them. My husband and I have met our daughter and two young grandsons at this location several times in the past few years. We’ve been entertained each time. Watching these huge birds land on the tiniest of branches is like watching a Cirque du Soleil performance. And the sounds! Herons croak, squawk and squabble LOUDLY. A word of caution: Don’t walk underneath the nests. It’s illegal to disturb the herons, and you don’t want to risk an attack or “whitewashing.” If you’re lucky enough to visit a rookery, bring binoculars so you can get a closeup of these huge grayish-blue birds. If you time it right and are lucky, you’ll see an adult regurgitate food to its young.

So long, winter! Hello, spring The arrival of birds ushers in spring sounds By Amy Laundrie

Sounds gross, I know, but I also find it remarkable. The adult eats the frog or fish and brings up the souplike mixture to feed its young. During another visit to the rookery, I felt like I’d entered a horror movie. The young were close

to fledgling, and several turkey vultures sat on nearby branches. Shivers crawled up my back when I realized the vultures were waiting for a young heron to fall out of the nest so they could snatch it. The return of the herons in-

spired me to devote the following day to recording more signs of spring. At sunrise, I rejoiced to hear warblers, sparrows, finches and the return of the sandhill cranes. Even though the temperature

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IF YOU TIME IT RIGHT AND ARE LUCKY, YOU’LL SEE AN ADULT REGURGITATE FOOD TO ITS YOUNG. SOUNDS GROSS, I KNOW, BUT I ALSO FIND IT REMARKABLE. was only in the 50s, I dressed in shorts and sandals. I called to Josie the Cockapoo, and she rushed for the door knowing it’s time for a walk. Neighbors were also strolling about, stopping to visit and catch up on the latest news. Parts of yards were still spongy, but green shoots from tulips, daffodils and crocuses signal better weather to come. The crocuses reminded me of how, one fall, my father-in-law secretly planted yellow and purple bulbs all over the front yard as a surprise for my motherin-law. Josie and I headed to the woods. Skunk cabbage had already poked through the marshy ground by a creek, and pussy willows were in full bloom. The maples had that lovely reddish glow. I looked for signs that the great horned owl is back nesting near the valley. Great horned owls are early nesters, so I saw young popping up their heads already. Josie and I walked by a creek, and I heard one of my all-time favorite sounds: the call of the redwinged blackbird. This scratchy oaka-lee call has always meant spring

to me. Since I grew up with a cattail pond in my backyard, whenever I first heard the male red-winged blackbird staking out its territory hoping to attract a mate, I knew that warm weather and summer vacation weren’t far behind. We returned home, and I pulled all the dead flower stalks from my garden and checked on the fish in the water garden. I still counted 7, so all survived. I decided to go grocery shopping and headed downtown. I avoided the many potholes, lowered my window, and waved to anyone outside. Restaurants and attractions that had been closed over the winter announced, “Opening soon!” I returned home and unearthed the grill. Soon the smell of steaks filled the air. Ah, yes, spring! I spent time on the computer and ordered a dozen fertile mallard eggs. Soon I’ll start the incubator so by May, I’ll have ducklings running around the backyard. The sun set, and a chorus of high-pitched spring peeper frogs chirped, “Goodbye, long winter; hello, spring.” ■

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Activities • Prizes • Refreshments

C LUB Fest! Join us to experience all the CLUB has to offer! This event is FREE and open to the community.

Wednesday, March 11 Open House 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 2754 Compass Drive, Grand Junction The CLUB is specially designed as a place to help seniors stay well and live their very best – meet old friends, make new friends, experience lifelong learning and enjoy activities.

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The PTC 104 rebate

Low-income Colorado seniors may be eligible for more financial help By Eileen Doherty, Colorado Gerontological Society

lder adults age 65 and older or individuals who are disabled and own property or who rent may be eligible to receive a PTC 104 rebate. In previous years, many low-income individuals were not eligible for a PTC 104 rebate if they lived in subsidized housing or nonprofit housing. However, starting in 2020, the rules were changed and regardless of where you live, if you meet the age and income guidelines, you can receive the rebate. To be eligible, older adults must have an annual income of less than $15,192 (single person) and $20,518 (couple) from all sources such as Social Security, pensions, and interest or dividends. Individuals must prove lawful presence by submitting a Colorado driver’s license or ID. The address on your license or your ID must be the same as the address on the application. Individuals whose address is different may change their address in person or online at the Colorado Department of Revenue. To complete the application, you must include the amount of income you received, the amount of rent paid in 2019, and the number of utilities paid. You must sign the application, as well as the affidavit of lawful presence. A copy of the Colorado driver’s license or ID must be attached. Rebates can be filed online at the

THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF THE GRANT IS $937 AND THE MINIMUM AMOUNT IS $315. Colorado.gov/RevenueOnline or you can complete and mail a paper copy to the Colorado Department of Revenue. Applications must be mailed before December 31, 2021, for the 2019 application. Individuals who have not applied for the 2018 rebate can apply until December 31, 2020. The maximum amount of the grant is $937 and the minimum amount is $315. For information or assistance with completing the application, call Senior Answers and Services at 303-333-3482 or toll-free 1-855293-6911 and ask to speak to a counselor. ■

Eileen Doherty is the executive director of the Colorado Gerontological Society. Her areas of expertise include management and administration of nonprofit organizations, education and training on issues related to older adults, advocacy and policy development on senior issues, and clinical practice in working with seniors manage their lives in the later years.

Let’s give it up for Lent!

BEACON SENIOR NEWS

What would you give up for 40 days? By Lynn Walker Gendusa

aster is coming, and by the time it gets here my church is going to receive a rather large donation of cash! I am a southern Methodist girl who wasn’t raised believing it was a law that I must fast or make a sacrifice for Lent. However, years ago, I thought the Lenten season was a great way to show my appreciation to the Lord. I gave up dark chocolate one year, and it nearly killed me! By the time Easter Sunday arrived, most of the chocolate bunnies in the south had been consumed by the out-of-control mother who was stealing them out of the kids’ Easter baskets. My daughter, who moved to Seattle to be close to Starbucks, decided to give up her beloved java for Lent. After 40 days of headaches, grumpiness, and falling asleep during business meetings, she decided never to give up the dark, soothing magic of coffee again. I have foregone sugar, fried foods and a host of other goodies for Lent in my lifetime of loving the Lord, but none have been as difficult as this one. Nope, not even dark chocolate. I live with an Italian/New Orleans husband who would never—and I do mean ever—give up food for anybody. So I didn’t suggest it at all. Instead, I came up with an ingenious plan. Since both of us have a terrible habit of saying some non-printable words out of frustration, we would vow not to use them for 40 days and beyond. If we slipped up, we put money in a jar to give to church on Easter Sunday. Surely this would be pleasing to God and hopefully not as difficult as giving up Easter bunnies or pizza. Well, unfortunately, we now have no money to buy a chocolate

Easter bunny or a pizza! The jar was soon replaced with a bucket. I can almost hear the sound of the Lord’s laughter with each dollar stuffed into His bucket. I have to laugh, too, when I think of some of the tales surrounding those non-printable, blanketyblank-blank words. The story of my 3-year-old brother, John, whose beloved grandfather had just finished building him a sandbox is particularly priceless. Granddaddy was a tall, handsome, and godly man who taught Sunday school and was a Baptist deacon. He was watching John play in his new sandbox, when my brother couldn’t make the sand form what he envisioned and said, “Well, da--!” “What did you say, John?” my grandfather asked in disbelief. “Granddaddy, can’t you hear?! I said, WELL, DA--!” “Where did you hear such a word?” he asked. “From my daddy!” the 3-year-old honestly and proudly shouted. And, just like that, the last time John saw his new sandbox for many days was as his granddaddy was hauling him into the house to wash his mouth out with the Ivory bar. He then delivered my daddy a fireand-brimstone sermon my father recalled for the next 50 years. By the time these 40 days have passed, hopefully our foul words will be forever gone and Granddaddy can rest in peace as I learn to no longer steal chocolate bunnies. The whole idea of Lent is to give up, give in, and grow for the love of the Lord. He endured 40 days in a barren wilderness tempted by Satan and survived only to return to give His life for us. Giving up chocolate bunnies, pizza, coffee, expletives and a bucket full of money is the least we can do for Him. ■

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CALENDAR March 3

Dinner, Shopping and a Movie: Knives Out

Shop or dine downtown anytime on Tuesday and bring your receipt to the Avalon Theatre to see the 7:30 p.m. movie for free! A detective (Daniel Craig) investigates the death of a patriarch of an eccentric, combative family. One admission for every $5 spent dining downtown, or $7 without a receipt. Receipts must be same day as the movie. For details, call 263-5757.

March 5

Kannah Creek Quiz Night

Show off all your “Seinfeld” knowledge over a beer with four rounds of trivia fun, starting at 6:45 p.m. at Kannah Creek Brewing Company. Themes change each week. No RSVP needed; teams of 2-6 players with the chance to win prizes. Call 263-0111 for details.

March 5

Free workshop and coaching for 50+ job seekers

Sign up for this free orientation at the Mesa County Workforce Center from 9-11 a.m. There will be workshops on March 10 from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and March 13 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. To register, call 855-850-2525. Call 248-7560 or visit www.mcwfc.us for details.

March 5-7 March 4, 11 & 18

Write A Will seminars

The public is invited to one of three free Write a Will seminars at the Mesa County Libraries Central Branch. Conducted by local estate-planning professionals, learn about estate-planning basics such as whether you need a will, what problems to avoid and how to create a will that reflects your wishes. Pre-registration is required. Call 43-4442 or visit the event calendar at mesacountylibraries.org for times and details.

Fiddler on the Roof

Colorado Mesa University’s Theatre Arts Department presents this classic production starting at 7:30 p.m. in Robinson Theatre. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, “Fiddler on the Roof’s” universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness. Tickets cost $22 per adult and $18 for seniors 60+, and can be purchased online at www.coloradomesa. universitytickets.com.

March 7

TEDx Grand Junction

Hear locals share their thoughts on the topic of vision at the Avalon Theatre from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Doors open at 8 a.m. In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. Tickets cost $49 in advance and $59 at the door. Visit www.avalontheatregj.com for details or call 263-5757.

March 7

Patterson/Sutton Duo

Praised by The Strad magazine for their “wit and imagination”, the trailblazing Patterson/Sutton cello and guitar duo continue to be in demand as they bring the rich cello and guitar repertoire to audiences around the world. See them live at 3 p.m. at Western Colorado Center for the Arts. Tickets start at $12. Purchase tickets at www.western slopeconcertseries.tix.com or call 214-597-8554.

March 7

Roast beef dinner

Covenant Presbyterian Church invites you and your family to join us at our annual roast beef dinner from 3-7 p.m. Enjoy a scrumptious meal, and leave the cooking and cleaning to us! Dinner prices are $15 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12 and free for kids under 6. So, bring the grandkids and join us

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at 237 32 Road. Proceeds benefit ministries of the church.

March 8

Steven Curtis Chapman in concert

Back by popular demand, multiGrammy-winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman will perform a night full of hits at the Avalon Theatre. In a career that has spanned 30 years, Steven Curtis Chapman is the most awarded artist in Christian music history. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $26 and can be purchased at www.avalontheatregj. com or by calling 263-5757.

March 10

Inspire Impact Breakfast

Community Impact Council (CIC) of Mesa County hosts its annual celebratory breakfast at Two Rivers Convention Center. The CIC recognizes outstanding local volunteer leadership and exceptional philanthropic contributions. Breakfast starts at 8 a.m. Tickets cost $26 and can be purchased at www. communityimpactcouncil.org or by calling 298-2234.

March 11

HopeWest CLUB Fest

The CLUB is specially designed as a place to help seniors stay well and live their very best, meet old friends, make new friends, experience lifelong learning and enjoy activities. Experience all the CLUB has to offer at a free open house from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at 2754 Compass

Drive, Grand Junction. Visit www. theclubgj.com or call 248-4444 for details.

March 13

Celebrating 127 years of Colorado women voting

Colorado women started voting in 1893—26 years earlier than the 19th amendment! Come to Lithic Bookstore and Gallery in Fruita to listen to Priscilla Walker highlight a dozen Colorado suffragettes who were inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame. Priscilla is a Colorado native and the founding chair of the Palisade Historical Society and serves on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame. For further information, go to Facebook: Historical Photos of Women’s Suffrage or visit www.cogreatwomen.org.

March 14

Beatles vs. Stones concert

These two legendary bands will engage in an on-stage battle at 7:30 p.m. at the Avalon Theatre. This musical showdown is courtesy of tribute bands “Abbey Road” and “Satisfaction.” The show played to a sold-out audience at the Avalon last year. Tickets are $35-$65 and may be purchased at www. avalontheatregj.com, by phone at 800-626-TIXS (8497) or at the theatre box office.

March 14

0.5K Beer Run

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day by running, walking or crawling 0.5K and drinking beer with your friends. Registration begins at Edgewater Brewery at 2:30 p.m. Run is at 3:30 and after party with music starts at 4 p.m. Tickets include a shirt and beer of your choice with your admission. Cost is $35 per person, or $165 per group of five.

March 21

Dot Art on a Cup

Join the paint party, starting at 10:30 a.m. at Homespun Shipping and Gifts, 3225 I-70 Business Loop. Design a cup with an intricate dot art design offered in your choice of colors. After curing, your cup will be hand-washable. All supplies are provided. Cost is $20. Reserve your

spot by calling 644-5060.

March 28

March 21

West Slope Beer Fest

Use Laughter in Recovery

Be prepared to roll around the floor laughing as several big-name comedians come to the Colorado Mesa University Ballroom in support of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and can be purchased at www.NAMIws.org. For details, call 812-0010 or visit the website.

March 24

Enjoy beer and music from 2-6 p.m. at the eighth annual West Slope Beer Festival, held at Edgewater Brewery. Sample craft beer from western slope guest breweries with your souvenir tasting glass and enjoy entertainment from the stage. Cost is $32. Part of the proceeds benefit RiversEdge West. Get tickets at www.970tix.com, or call 243-3659.

Diamond Rio in concert

Listen live at the Avalon Theatre, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29 and can be purchased at www.avalontheatregj. com or by calling 263-5757.

March 28

Cowboy Poetry

Come out to Gateway for an evening of Cowboy Poetry and western music, complete with a beef stew dinner, silent auction, great door prizes and more! Dinner starts at 5 p.m. at the Gateway Community building and entertainment begins at 6 p.m. Entry is $7 per person, with proceeds going to the local 4-H Club scholarship fund. Call Linda at 931-2803 for details.

March 29

Arturo Sandoval at the Avalon

Listen to this Emmy-award-winning Cuban music icon at the Avalon Theatre starting at 7:30 p.m. Sandoval will lead his six-piece band with his legendary trumpet playing. Tickets range from $49-69. Get tickets at www.ticketmaster.com or call the Avalon at 263-5757. ■

See more events at

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CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES American Association of University Women meets monthly at 11:30 a.m. on the second Saturday. For details or to confirm location, call 261-2112. Bookcliff Barbershop Harmony Society meets weekly on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at Northeast Christian Church. Call 257-7664. Blue Lodge Masons meets monthly at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday at the Masonic Center. Call 245-5312. Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at 12:45 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, and 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Call ahead: 244-9989. Colorado Archaeological Society Grand Junction meets monthly from 6:30-9 p.m. on the second Monday. Call 433-4312 or visit www.meetup.com/CAS-GJ/events. Cribbage Lite meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays at IHOP. Call 201-7823. Cups Club meets at 2 p.m. Wednesdays at The Artful Cup. Meet people through cards, games talk and tea. Call 257-2390.

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Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter meets monthly. For details, call 719-580-0948. Fleet Reserve Association meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday at the VFW #3981. All former, retired and active sea service, U.S. Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. Call 434-0868. Crafting Club meets monthly from 2-3 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Clifton Library. Call 434-6936

a.m. Wednesdays at the Redlands Community Center. Visit www. gjgoldenk.com. Grand Junction Gem & Mineral Club meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month at 2328 Monument Road. Email grand junctionrockclub@gmail.com. Grand Junction Newcomers Club meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday at First Christian Church. Call 549-0440 or visit www.gjnewcomers.org. Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets monthly at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday at Two Rivers Convention Center. Visit www.grandjunctionpmc.com. Grand Junction Toastmasters meets at 6:45 a.m. Tuesdays at The Commons of Hilltop Garden Room. Call 241-1900. Grand Valley Pets Alive meets monthly from 4:30-6 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Church of the Nativity. Call 462-7554. Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays and 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or 257-1549. Grand Valley Woodturners meets monthly at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 245-8817 or 856-3632.

Friendship Force meets monthly at 6:15 p.m. on the third Thursday at First Baptist Church. Call 7786191 or visit www.ffwcolo.com.

Guys’ Giving Club meets quarterly. Next meeting is May 5. Members donate $100 at each meeting and are invited to nominate a local charity to receive the evening’s total contributions. Call 243-8829 or 270-6184.

Golden K Kiwanis meets from 9-10

Knitting Club meets monthly from

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES 6:30-8 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday at Community of Christ Church. Call 623-1455. Mesa County Genealogical Society meets March 12 and 25. Visit www.mesacountygenealogy.org for location and details. Not Going Quietly meets from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at Center for Spiritual Living Grand Junction. This group creates a space of empowerment, grace, community and wisdom for those age 60 and older. Call 433-7799. Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month. For location, call 216-2919. Outing Club meets weekly for hiking, biking, skiing and other activities. Call 801-638-8707. Sons of Norway, Vestafjell Lodge meets at 1:30 p.m. on March 14 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church. Call 245-5649 or visit www. vestafjelllodge.org for details. SOS: Singles over 65 is a gender-balanced club for hip, cool, classy seniors. Visit www.meetup.

com/singles-over-65 for details. Sweet Adelines International, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus rehearses from 6:30-9 p.m. Mondays at Redlands United Methodist Church. Call 255-9419 or 523-3464, or visit www.grandmesachorus.org. Talk of the Town Toastmasters meets at noon on Thursdays. Call 250-3969. Thunder Mountain Camera Club meets monthly from 7-9 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday at Western Colorado Community College, Building B. Visit www.thundermountain cameraclub.org. TOPS Club, the nonprofit weightloss support group, meets weekly on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at Crossroads United Methodist Church. Call 720-278-8537 or visit www. tops.org for more information. Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets Thursdays at the Masonic Center. Call 261-1670. Vintage Motor Car Club of America, located in Grand Junction, is looking for people with any type of classic car to join their club. For more information call 858-7970. ■

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Fridays at 5 p.m. - Meet new friends at Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) at the Travelodge on Horizon Drive. Call 242-5252 for details. Tuesdays at 9 a.m. - Early Start Breakfast at Denny’s on Horizon Drive. Visitors welcome. Call Debbie at 245-4995. Mondays at 9:30 a.m. - Play pool at the Grand Junction Senior Recreation Center, 550 Ouray Ave. Call Bobbie at 261-2232.

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Thursday, March 12 at 11 a.m. – Meet at Sutherland’s parking lot to carpool to Munchies in Fruita for lunch, followed by a free lecture at the Fruita Community Center. Contact Fran at 248-9211.

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Thursday, March 26 at 2 p.m. – Enjoy free golf lessons for beginners and seasoned players at Adobe Golf Course in Fruita. Equipment included. Call Bill at 858-5190 for details. Friday, March 27 & Saturday, March 28 – Watch Senior Theatre’s production of “Gerald’s Dream” at The Art Center. Friday’s performance starts at 7 p.m., and Saturday features two performances at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15, and can be purchased at the Art Center or Roper Music. Call Elli at 261-8690.

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Senior Recreation Center schedule Activities for adults age 50 and older

550 Ouray Ave. 970-243-7408

FUN AFTER 50

Open 8 am-4 pm. MON-SAT Annual membership is $20.

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

To make lunch reservations, call 243-9844. Cost is $3.50 MONDAY 9:00 am Cribbage

9:30 am 10:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5:30 pm

Cards Computer Classes Meals on Wheels Lunch Card Bingo & Dominoes Pinochle (2nd & 4th Mondays)

TUESDAY 9:00 am Cards & Pool 12:00 pm Meals on Wheels Lunch 1:30 pm Bingo

WEDNESDAY 9:30 am Pool 12:00 pm Meals on Wheels Lunch 1:00 pm Pinochle & Canasta

THURSDAY 9:30 am Line Dancing (2nd Thursday) 10:30 am Membership Meeting 12:00 pm Pokeno (Starts at 1 p.m. on 1st Thursday) 1:00 pm Poker 7:30 pm Dance

HEALTH Mondays

HIGH Fitness

Meet at the Bookcliff Activity Center from 6:15-7:15 p.m. for a crazy fun workout that leaves participants wanting more! HIGH Fitness transforms old school aerobics into a new fitness experience that combines simple, modern fitness techniques including cardio and strength training with music you know and love. Register for the session and save, or drop in for $6 and try it out.

Tai Chi

Learn to reduce stress and improve balance, brain health, proprioception and strength with flowing movements, intention and breathing mindfully. Class is from 8-9 a.m. at Lincoln Park Barn. Cost is $50 for a 10-punch pass or $7 to drop in.

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Mondays & Thursdays

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Painting Class & Pool Tourney Meals on Wheels Lunch Bible Study Bridge Canasta

Get paid to make the best mac and cheese! Up to $750 in prize money is available for winners in the mac and cheese competition at South West Arbor Fest at Lincoln Park on April 25. Details for entry are online at: www.gjcity.org/residents/parks-recreation/ special-events/southwest-arbor-fest/

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SUPPORT GROUPS Art Exploration Class for cancer patients meets 4-5:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Oncology Conference Room. Call 298-2351. Caregiver Connections meets from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest. Call 241-2212. Caregiver Support Group meets monthly from 1:30-3:30 p.m. the first Thursday at Cappella Grand Junction, 628 26 1/2 Road. Call 8227070 to RSVP. Compassionate Friends offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents from 7-8:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month at Unity Church. Call 434-3822. COPD Support Group meets monthly at 1 p.m. on the fourth Friday at 581 Grand Valley Drive in Grand Junction. Call 317-7556 or email jimcampbell3@aol.com. Divorce Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Saturdays at 103 S. Fifth St. in Palisade. Call 200-1191. Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step meeting to help compulsive gamblers recover, is held from 7-8 p.m. at The Meeting Hall, 1938 N. First St. GriefShare, a nondenominational Christ-based support group for those mourning the death of a loved one, meets from 10-11:30 a.m. or 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays. For details, call Vicci 628-1453. Grief Group for Pets meets monthly from 6-7 p.m. on the second Wednesday at Roice-Hurst Humane Society. Call 434-7337, ext. 103. Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets monthly from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first Tuesday at Colorado West Otolaryngologists. Call 245-2400. Healing Hands Hour meets from

noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. Call 298-2351. HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets monthly from 7-9 p.m. on the third Tuesday at First Congregational Church. Call 7789274 or 241-4349. Job Searching After 50 Networking Group meets from 8:30-10 a.m. on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Mesa County Workforce Center. You must be registered as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com. Call 2487560 for details.

SUPPORT GROUPS adults who have a serious mental illness and connection groups for adults living with a mental illness. Groups meet at various times and locations in Mesa County. For details, visit www.NAMIWS.org or call 462-3989.

Western Colorado Post Polio Group educates polio survivors and caregivers about post-polio, connects post-polio people and promotes independent living for people struck with the virus many years ago. Call 241-7825 for details.

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday at First Presbyterian Church. If you have a child who struggles with alcohol, drugs or food, there’s help and hope. Call 379-5786.

Western Slope Visionaries, a low-vision support group, meets monthly from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Center for Independence. Transportation is available. Call 241-0315.

Tinnitus Support Group meets monthly at 6 p.m. on the third Wednesday at Community Hospital’s Legacy Room 1. Call 589-0305.

Yoga For Life meets from 5:306:45 p.m. Tuesdays at the St. Mary’s Life Center Aerobics Room. Call 298-2351. ■

Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets monthly from 4-5 p.m. on the third Monday in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room. Look Good, Feel Better meets monthly from 3-5 p.m. on the last Wednesday. Beauty professionals provide tips to help women defy the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Call 800-2272345 to register. MACHO Men cancer support group meets monthly at 2 p.m. on the first Thursday at the VA Medical Center In-Patient Dining Room. Call 298-2351. Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one, and meets from 2-3:30 p.m. Thursdays at the Miller Homestead at HopeWest. Call 248- 8844.

grows L oveno matter

the season. Our home is filled with stories of love and we share a lifetime of memories of those who went offhave to war. found We

physical reactions to those most precious to them. This also becomes a constant reminder for those whose family members suffer.

our pot of gold

Atshould Colorado Veterans A Our wise Irishman “Your investments always show in Community your pot veterans once tell ofsaid: times when Living Center, we treasure these oflove gold.” was young and their hearts stories and uniquely want to be a

were fullAmerican of life. What may have Grandpa’s interpretation of this: “Your investments will show great part of their day, sharing both the returns through yourthefamily your work” - Walter Caughey been lost though yearsand is now a good and bad.

memoryVeterans often forgotten. Colorado Community Living Center – Rifle believes we have found our We are here to help those families pot of gold, sharing in the lives of our veterans. Dementia and Alzheimer’s takes

MS and Men, a support group for men living with MS, meets monthly from 11 a.m. to noon on the third Thursday at The Artful Cup. Call 241-8975.

suffering in for desperate needreturns of care Wemuch are inaway; searchhowever, of talented people who are searching those great to our for their loved ones. Give us the onveterans, their investments. their service is not

MS Breakfast Group meets monthly at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday at Village Inn, 757 Horizon Drive. Call 241-8975.

CNAs and Nurses: Call or stop in for a hint of gold.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support groups for family members of

Join anduntold be rewarded. justusan memory—it’s

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opportunity to assist in providing a gentle helping hand, and a loving touch.

resulting in aggressive behaviors. PTSD is a reality for those who We are here to serve veterans, their Wehave are experienced here to servewar veterans, spouses and Gold Star first-hand. spouses andfamilies. Gold Star families. PleaseAsk callforand It’s acall source nightmares Please and of we will assist you.and 970-625-0842 Sylviaweorwill Sonjaassist you.

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BEACON BITS Palisade Peach Festival Poster Art Contest The Palisade Chamber of Commerce is taking original art submissions for the 52nd anniversary of the Palisade Peach Festival. Art should honor the history and the impact of peaches on our agricultural community, and show peaches in a fun and pleasing format. Entry fees are $20 for one or $30 for two. March 6 is the deadline for art to be dropped off at the Palisade Chamber of Commerce, 305 S. Main St., Unit 103, in Palisade. All entries will be on display at the Blue Pig Gallery and judged by the public and Palisade Chamber members. The winner will be announced at a reception at the Blue Pig on March 27, 5:30-7 p.m. The winning artist will be featured in the Peach Town News and local media, and will receive a $500 prize. Chamber retains copyright to artwork. Artwork will be on display through March 30.

HopeWest welcomes hospice physician HopeWest is pleased to introduce Dr. Sara Warzecka, MD, as a hospice and palliative medicine physician. Warzecka has training focused on treating people holistically to include their physical, emotional and spiritual well being at the end of life. Before coming to HopeWest, she worked in hospice and family medicine where she helped train future family medicine doctors to ensure the appreciation of palliative and patient-centered care. Beyond her work in the U.S., Warzecka volunteers with a health care-based nonprofit in Peru, attending to health needs in remote communities along the Amazon River. Community Hospital receives 5-star quality rating The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released the star ratings for more

2020 Colorado Winefest Commemorative Poster Artist Winners Every year, the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) invites 2D artists from around Colorado to submit their artwork for a chance at becoming the official Colorado Winefest Poster Artist. This year’s contest featured 28 entries from across the state—a new record! The winning piece, “Colorado Uncorked” by Rob Childerston, will represent the 29th annual Colorado Mountain Winefest presented by The Grand Junction Group in Palisade, September 17-20, 2020. “Colorado Uncorked” will be featured on wine totes, T-shirts, posters, brochures as well as local and nationwide print and digital marketing. Other top winners included: Second Place: “Spirit of Palisade” by Tamra Hollis Third Place: “My Roots Are In Colorado” by Mary Pat Ettinger Fourth Place: “Colorado Vineyards” by Jessica Chevalier

52 | BEACON BITS | MARCH 2020 |

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Darrell Fenimore named director of The Lodge’s culinary services The Lodge at Grand Junction Senior Living announces Darrell Fenimore as the new Director of Culinary Services. Fenimore will work with dining room and kitchen staff to provide seniors and their guests with a unique and pleasurable culinary experience at Grand Junction’s newest senior living community. Born in Merced, California, Fenimore began his career in dining hospitality at a young age. As a teen, he worked at the Coffee Pot, a mom-and-pop restaurant in New Hampshire where he was promoted from dishwasher to line cook at just 16 years old. Darrell has since honed his craft in dining services, where he enjoys creating genuinely unforgettable culinary environments for others. than 4,500 hospitals nationwide based on their performance across seven areas of quality. Community Hospital received the maximum 5-star quality rating for 2020, earning this distinction after CMS conducted an extensive and objective review of the hospital’s quality and safety standards. Data included patient experience, timely and effective care, unplanned hospital visits, payment and value of care, and more. Quality scores are based on federal standards and national standards for patient safety, quality improvement, and environmental safety. Community Hospital met or exceeded standards in each of the core areas. Hospital quality data is available at www.medicare.gov. Free tax preparation through April 15 AARP/Tax-Aide has two locations to serve our community. Volunteer preparers are trained in tax law, then tested and certified each year through the IRS and are ready to accurately prepare and electronically file your 2019 federal and state returns at no cost to you. Bring your Social Security card, picture ID, proof of bank account and

routing information, last year’s return, and all documents needed to complete your return. Questions? Call 589-3789. Free tax preparation is offered at • Wells Fargo Bank Annex Building on Main Street, Grand Junction, Monday-Wednesday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. • Wells Fargo Bank on North Ave. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wheels West Car Club seeks entries for Mike the Headless Chicken Car Show Enjoy a classic car and motorcycle show held as part of Fruita’s famous Mike the Headless Chicken Festival on Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The show, hosted by Wheels West Car Club, is open to all owners of classic cars and motorcycles. Awards will be given to the top 20 entries voted on by participants. Spectator admission is free. Entry fee is $20 for the first vehicle and $10 for each additional. Proceeds from entry fees will be donated to charity. Preregistration begins on May 29, from 4-6 p.m. at Munchies. For details, visit www. miketheheadlesschicken.org.

BEACON BITS

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES • Grand Junction Visitor Center seeks volunteers to welcome visitors to the Grand Valley as a tourism ambassador. Flexible schedule, and a whole lot of fun! Contact Kerry Graves at 2564054 or kerryg@gjcity.org for details. • MOPS Kids is looking for volunteers at the Canyon View Vineyard Church to watch children for several hours a month during MOPS meetings. Volunteers are needed 9-11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays each month during the school year, holiday weeks excluded. Call or text 549-6637.

970 Medicare spreads love to seniors on Valentine’s Day

Ashley VanGundy and her staff at 970 Medicare - Senior Insurance Solutions spent Valentine’s Day spreading love to seniors by delivering over 200 handmade Valentines cards, along with flowers and gifts, to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels and to hospitalized veterans at the Grand Junction VA Medical Center.

• Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55 and older to volunteer positions in any of our member agencies. For a list of volunteer opportunities and to register, call 243-9839. • Riverside Education Center is seeking volunteer tutors to ensure the success of kids K-12th in its structured after-school tutoring and enrichment activities. Volunteers commit to one day/ week for 1-2 hours after school. Apply at www.rec4kids.com, or call 462-2901 for details. • Mesa County Spellbinders is looking for volunteers to learn a few storytelling skills and make a difference in children’s lives. Tell stories to students in kindergarten through fifth grade once a month during the school year. To join, call 462-7346. • Palisade Historical Society welcomes volunteers who would like to share the history of Palisade, and/or work on various committees and projects. To volunteer or for more information, email pbwalker630@acsol.net. • American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers to provide free transportation to and from treatment for people who have cancer and are unable to drive themselves. Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license, a safe and reliable vehicle, good driving history and proof of automobile insurance. Training provided, with criminal background and driving record check.

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National & Regional Award-Winning Publication

ACROSS

1. Rent-___ 5. Brahmans, e.g. 10. Scarf 14. Sites 15. Broadcasting 16. Get in on a deal 17. Action word 18. Ballet by Tchaikovsky

20. Lend ___ 22. Diddley and Derek 23. Snares 24. Open the door for 26. Bullfight cheer 27. Automobile

wheelguards 30. Sports arena 34. English Channel swimmer Gertrude 35. Asian country 36. Road-sign word 37. Wee 38. Thread holder 40. Filmmaker Riefenstahl 41. Like Bruckner's Symphony No. 7

42. Wait ___! 43. Musical dramas 45. Taro 47. Most gruesome 48. Like some jobs 49. Eye sores 50. San Diego player

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books 58. Printed copy 61. File 62. Look ___, I'm Sandra Dee 63. High home 64. O.T. book 65. Calendar abbr. 66. Song of praise 67. Barely passing grades

DOWN

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of the ear 27. Stinking 28. Minneapolis suburb 29. Hawaiian state birds 30. ___ Paulo, Brazil 31. Grenoble's river 32. Arm bones 33. Damp 35. Rapper Tone ___ 39. Writing instrument 40. Unhurried 42. Yellow-fever mosquito 44. Defendant's answer 46. Large stinging wasp 47. System of social perfection 49. Steeple 50. School orgs. 51. Jocular Johnson 52. A bit wet 53. Half the base times the height, for a triangle 55. Stupefy 56. Palmist's words 57. Toll rds. 59. Put an upper limit on 60. X

Love the BEACON? Visit us online!

Our award-winning website has: More fascinating stories! More great photos! More exciting events! www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

SUDOKU

Turn to page 58 for your puzzle answers WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | MARCH 2020 | FUN & GAMES |

CLASSIFIEDS HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL OR A SERVICE TO OFFER? List it here—pricing starts at just $29 per month!

Call Stacey at 243-8829, ext.102, to reserve your space in next month’s issue. FOR SALE Kids Saddle Kids saddle for sale, too big for a mini-pony. $200. Text 901-9364 for more info. Pellet Stove Older pellet stove; works but needs fan motor replaced. Stove and pipe $75. Text 901-9364.

HELP WANTED

WE’RE HIRING!

The BEACON Senior News is growing and we’re looking for talented folks who want to grow with us! Send your letter and resume to

Scene Clearly, LLC Window cleaners specializing in making your day a little brighter! Grand Junction area. Call Frank Cordova at 242-1264.

Window and House Cleaning Get a start on your spring cleaning with Blue Ribbon Cleaning Services. 361-0531. Ryan and Michele Allowitz. 35 years’ experience and insured.

beacon@pendantpublishing.com No phone calls, please.

RETIRED/Need Extra Income? PART-TIME medical delivery position available. Shift starts at 2:45 a.m. Good driving record and ability to lift 50+ lbs. Flexibility and dependability essential. Call for details. 254-2897.

Oil chAnge any make orSeRvice model any make orSeRvice model Oil chAnge any makegas or model 9595 engine 95 gas $49. engine synthetic oils slightly higher gas 95 synthetic oils slightly higher engine diesel synthetic95 oils slightly higher engine 95 diesel $99.95 engine No appointment necessary 95 diesel engine No appointment necessary

HOME SERVICES

Tree Removal Special B-N Trees will remove almost any tree or stump on your property. Winter Special 15% off! Call Bill 430-1970.

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Registered Republican? Help Bob Prescott. He is a successful businessman with an outsider’s vision for County Commissioner. He needs your vote and your support: www.votebobprescott.com. 549-7832.

Custom Draperies, Blinds and Solar Shades Floor coverings and design services. Interior Monologues, Inc. 234-0040.

Antiques, Appraisals, Estate Sales With over 40 years in the antique, appraisal and estate sale business, Great American Estate Sales is the Valley’s leader in appraisals and estate liquidation. Settling an estate, moving into a smaller home or just simplifying your lifestyle? Great American Estate Sales can provide a worry-free and quick solution. Free consultation. 216-0048.

My Phone Friend, LLC Smartphone/Tablets assistance and lessons. 623-2121. www.myphonefriendllc.com Computer Lady, LLC In-home repair. 15 years serving Mesa County. Windows, internet, Wi-Fi, Android, tablets, Netflix, Roku. Virus removal, installation and instruction. Dependable, reasonable, qualified. 255-1216.

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56 | CLASSIFIEDS | MARCH 2020 |

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Storybook Sitters House sitting and dog walking services. Need help with your fur babies? We provide loving pet care while you are away. Give your fur baby’s day a happy ending! Call or text 234-1891. In-home toenail care JQ Foot Care will provide in-home toenail care. This includes cleansing of feet, inspection, nails trimmed, filed and lotion applied with massage. $35 for session. Education to promote foot health.

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

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First Presbyterian Church Our Mission Is To Follow Christ & Share His Word

Sunday Worship Services: Traditional 8:30 am Contemporary 9:30 am Traditional 11 :00 am

3940 27 1/2 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81506 • 970-242-1923 www.firstpresgj.org

COME CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! COMECROW CROWWITH WITHUS USIN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! COME CROW WITH US ININCHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! COME CROW WITH US IN CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP! Weare... Weare...... Weare WeareFamily-oriented ...Family-oriented Family-oriented Inspirational Family-oriented Inspirational Inspirational Relational Inspirational Relational Relational Sacred space Relational Sacred Sacredspace space The place for you Sacred space The Theplace placefor foryou you United Methodist Church The place for you United United Methodist MethodistChurch Church

9:00 am contemporary Praise service 9:009:00 am PraisePraise service am contemporary service 10:00 amcontemporary Christian Education (all ages) 10:00 am Christian Education (allservice ages) 10:00 am Christian Education (all ages) 11:00 am service with Choir 9:00 amTraditional contemporary Praise 11:00 am service with Choir 11:00 am Traditional service 10:00 amTraditional Christian Education (allwith ages)Choir United Church First UnitedMethodist Methodist Church, 5th St. & White Ave.11:00 (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org am Traditional service with Choir th & White Ave. (downtown) First United Methodist Church, 5th St. 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org

First United Methodist Church, 5 St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org First United Methodist Church, 5th St. & White Ave. (downtown) 242-4850 www.fumcgj.org

Enjoy the area’s largest boomer and senior fair! G R A N FREE D J admission, UNCTIO N entertainment, seminars & food

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KUDOS & KVETCH

kudos \ ku • dos • “Our volunteers love your magazine! We always go to the jokes first.

We absolutely love them!” - Orilee Witte, Colorado Welcome Center in Fruita

• “Your paper is really great! You made some changes about a year ago

that really made it even better!” - Keith Swinehart

In response to “12 gestures that’ll make him fall in love all over again” in February’s BEACON:

• “Love is the strongest hope and the sweetest pleasure we have, no matter our age.” - S. Cameron

kvetch \ kfetch • “Who on earth approved [“Targeted philanthropy: Support causes

that align with your values and priorities” in October’s BEACON]? The idea that administrative costs should only be 25% of their overall budgets is a ridiculous and outdated notion. Administrative costs are essential to the mission of almost any nonprofit. How am I supposed to make food if I don’t pay rent on my building? How am I going to finish the six hours of super specialized paperwork the state requires me to do for each 1,800 seniors I serve if I don’t have staff to do it? All of that goes into administrative costs. If you look at Charity Navigators own 990, they are nowhere close to that! Just looking at their salaries, they’re at almost 53%. And a CEO’s salary should only be 3% of expenses…Do you realize that for a nonprofit with a million dollar budget, that works out to be less than $14.50 an hour? It’s my literal job to make sure that no senior in Mesa County goes hungry, and you think I can do that on $14.42 an hour? Promoting the fallacy that administrative costs, including salaries, are inherently bad and a sign of an inefficient nonprofit is a slap in the face to all of the people who work so hard in Mesa County to make the world a better place.” - Amanda de Bock, Program Manager, Meals on Wheels Mesa County

Cloie: “Thanks for writing in, Amanda, and for pointing out this misnomer. You couldn’t be more correct. We’re thankful for all you do for seniors in Mesa County. We’ll certainly follow up on this with a story with more realistic and accurate information about charitable giving.”

Answers from page 55

58 | KUDOS & KVETCH | MARCH 2020 |

WWW.BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM

Young brain? Old bones! By Eileen O’Toole

dled brush looking up to the ceiling. ’ve reached the conclusion that it’s The old neck doesn’t like looking up my brain and time that keeps me anymore, especially while moving. overly busy. Then there’s the eyes. Even My friends and I’ve been talking without creeping macular degenabout how we get up in the morning eration, the light changes with age. thinking “I’ll do this and this and this Lamps are more important. I’m an today” only to discover when crawl- artist, and notice colors change ing into bed at night, “I only accom- dramatically between sun and plished this.” We never seem to get clouds. Colors only come to the end of the “this list.” out on sunny days, while Yes, we know we’re cloudy days blend ENDURANCE slowing down as we shadows to all IS MORE OF age. Arthritic bones, kinds of gray. For MY PACE AND MAY achy weak muscles night driving, beand vision changes ginning at dusk the WORK BETTER plague us unmerciheadlights glare THAN SPEED fully. But the brain like some kind of AS I AGE. thinks slowing down noise, the curbs is nonsense. Maybe the disappear into the street white stuff hiding in our noggin still pavement and it’s harder to thinks it’s in our thirties while the discern stop lights from all the old body is grumbling about our other lights. On dark roads, watchseventies. And time doesn’t just slip ing for deer becomes a problem. I away. It runs. How many Sundays either need better headlights or to can there be in a week? avoid night driving. The past couple of years have Seeing the younger families been hectic, demanding and stress- around me, I know they’re far ful for me, and people are getting busier than I. I’m just slower. Much tired of my whining about being too slower. It’s not about being debusy to add another event or chore. pressed or stressed; I’ve never been But I’ve always been busy and short very speedy about anything. Enduron time. That’s why I was excited ance is more of my pace and may about retirement. I would have the work better than speed as I age. time to do what I didn’t have much Maybe the frustration lies in time to do while employed. But why arguing with the young brain which is this different? My busy is slower. says you can still do everything Life shoves itself into my time, you wish to do while time runs out as always. Family health scares, faster than the brain can conform. funerals and limited finances It’s a pretty weird feeling like I can cause worry, naturally. Sometimes leap out of bed in the morning but volunteer labor increases. Health there’s no more leaping. appointments, one to three a week, At least for me some of these slow me down more. We’re all problems are a kind of exercise. facing more and more “can’t do this Five minutes of pushing a vacuum like I used to” even though the brain and the old back makes me sit claims otherwise. down until the bent knees complain The old arthritic back objects and five minutes later I’m up vacuto vacuuming and sweeping and uming again. Get up, do things, sit raking. But mowing my acre is easdown. Then get up, sit down again ier, though slower. I grow cobwebs and again. for Halloween. As I age it becomes At least I move up and down a more difficult to hold a long-hanlot. It just takes a lot more time. ■

Age Well. Live Well. The treatment that is provided at Compass Medical Center has four main goals:

The most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce your symptoms. These drugs have generic names such as Gabapentin, Amitriptyline, or Lyrica and are primarily antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs. These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side effects.

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Figure 2: When these very small blood vessels become diseased they begin to shrivel up and the nerves begin to degenerate.

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cover varie son and ca after a deta vascular ev you have n 85% nerve condition c

The experie Compass M do a n examinatio extent of This neu examinatio detailed physical diagnostic detailed an of your neu

Call our of appointmen neuropathy

The main problem is that your | Managed by WellAge 2656 Patterson Road, Grand COjust81506 doctor Junction, has told you to live Figure 1: Notice the very small blood vessels surrounding each nerve.

with the problem or try the drugs which you don’t like taking because they make you feel uncomfortable. There is now a facility right here in Snowflake that offers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side effects. (see the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article)

The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully re-

Peripheral Neuropathy WARNING Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the thedon’t hands drugsnerves whichinyou likeand feet which causes the nerves to begin taking because they make you to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow. feel uncomfortable. There is

1300 S Snowf

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Pain, Numbness & Tingling In The Hands/Feet

blood flow to utilizes a specialized blood flow to the nerves in the In order effectively treat your neuropathy factors must be low-level lightthree therapy (not to be hands and feet which causes the determined. confused with laser therapy) using nerves to begin to degenerate 1) What is the underlying cause? now a isfacility right here invaries fromlight diode technology. due to lack of nutrient flow. 2) emitting How Much Nerve Damage The treatment thatAs provided cover to peryou can atsee in Figure 2, as person The that originally is provided at The most common method your Hastreatment Been Sustained? Compass Grand Medical Center son andsurround can onlyThis be determined Junction that offers you technology was the blood vessels that Compass Medical Center doctor will recommend to treat As you can see in Figure has four main goals: after a detailed neurological and NOTE: Once you have sustained nerves taking becomevascular diseased they developed without those bymain NASA to assist in fouras goals: your neuropathy is with hope pre- the evaluation. Ashas long 85% nerve loss, there is nothing 2, as the blood vessels that 1) Increase blood flow shrivel up which causes the scription drugs that may tempoyou have not sustained at least endless drugs with serious side increasing blood flow. that we can do for you. 1) Increase blood flow 2) Stimulate small fiber nerves nerves to not get the to surround the nerves become rarily reduce your symptoms. 85%nutrients nerve damage yourmuchsmall 3)then How treatment will 2) Stimulate fiber nerves 3) Decrease brain-based effects. (see pain thetospecial neuropathy continue survive. Whencan these These drugsup have generic names condition been treated. level light therapypain is your condition require? diseased they shrivel which 3) Decrease brain-based 4) Stabilize the nerve cells severity examination at the end of The low such as Gabapentin, Amitripty4) Stabilize the nerve cells like watering The light causes the nerves not get the The experienced providers at the a plant. line, or to Lyrica and primarily thistoarticle) Theare treatment increase blood Compass Medical Center will can allow the blood or anti-seizure therapy nutrients toantidepressant continue to survive. flow utilizes a specialized lowThe treatment to increase blood do a neuropathy severity These drugs may level light cause therapy to be flow a specialized In order(not to effectively treat your to vessels to utilizes grow back around lowWhen thesedrugs. nerves begin to “die” examination determine the you to feel uncomfortable confused withand laser therapy) uslevel light therapy (not to be extent of the nerve damage. neuropathy three the peripheral nerves and havetoa have variety of harmful side they cause you balance ing light emitting diode technol- factors must confused with laser therapy) usThis neuropathy severity effects. ogy. This technology was origibe determined. them with the proper problems, pain, numbness, ing light diode technolexamination willprovide consist of a emitting nally developed by NASA to ogy. This technology was origidetailed sensory evaluation, Figure 2: When burning, these very small 1) What is the underlying cause? nutrients to heal and repair. It’s tingling, and many assist in increasing blood flow. blood vessels become diseased they nally developed by NASA to physical examination, Figure 2: When these very small like adding water to a plant and 2) How much nerve damage has beginadditional to shrivel up and the nerves symptoms. diagnostic testing, assist and inaincreasing blood flow. blood vessels begin to degenerate. The low level light therapy is become diseased they analysis of the findings been sustained? seeing the roots grow deeper The treatment that is provided at detailed varies from person to perThe most common method your begin to shrivel up cover and the nerves like watering a plant. The light your neuropathy. begin to of degenerate. Compass Medical Center son and can only be determined The low level light therapy is doctor will recommend to nerves treat begin to “die” they cause therapy will allow the blood vesNOTE: Once you have sustained and deeper. has four main goals: after a detailed neurological and your neuropathy is with you pre- to have balance problems, like watering a plant. The light sels to grow back around the pevascular evaluation. 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It’sHow likebrain-based adding condition can been treated. such as Gabapentin, Amitripty3) much treatment will 4) Stabilize the nerve cells ing, and many additional sympwithrecover the proper nutrients to a plant and seeing the roots line, or Lyrica and are primarily to fully varies fromto heal toms. your condition require? The main problem is that your and repair. It’s like adding water grow deeper and deeper. The experienced providers at the antidepressant or anti-seizure The treatment to increase blood person person canthe only doctor has told you to just live to atoplant seeing roots Compass Medical Center can andand drugs. These drugs may cause flow utilizes a specialized The main lowproblem your do is athat neuropathy severity you to feel uncomfortablewith and the problem or try the drugs grow deeper after and deeper. is provided be determined a detailed level The light treatment therapy (notthat to be Figure 1: Notice the very small blood examination to determine the have a variety of harmful which side you don’t like taking bedoctor has ustold you to just live The amount of with treatment needed confused laser therapy) vessels surrounding at Compass Medical Center extent ofdrugs theneurological nerve damage.and vascular effects. each nerve. cause they make you feel unto allow to fully rewith thetechnolproblem or try has the ing the lightnerves emitting diode 1300 South Main Street This taking neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy is a smallThis blood comfortable. There Figure is now1:aNotice fa- the very ogy. which you don’t like befour main goals: Theseverity amount of treatment needed evaluation. As long as you have technology was origiexamination will of a Snowflake, AZ 85937 vessels surrounding each nerve. here in Snowflake cause theyflow make you feel un- consist nally 1) developed byblood NASA to result of damage toisthe nerves cility rightFigure to allow the to fully rePeripheral neuropathy a result Increase detailed sensory evaluation, 2: When these very small not sustained at nerves least 85% nerve that offers you hope without takassist in increasing blood flow. There (928) 536-5525 comfortable. is now a faof damage to the nerves often blood vessels become diseased they physical examination, often causing weakness, pain, ing those begin endless drugs with se2) Stimulate damageand thena your condition to shrivel up and the nerves cilitysmall right fiber here nerves in Snowflake causing weakness, pain, numbdiagnostic testing, Peripheral neuropathy The is a low result the spebegin(see to degenerate. level light therapyyou is hope without taknumbness, and dethe rious side effects. that brain-based offers ness, tingling,tingling, and the most detailed of been the findings 3) Decrease pain analysiscan treated. of damage to the nerves often like watering a plant. The light cial neuropathy severity bilitating balance problems. This ing those endless of drugs seyour with neuropathy. The main problem is that your most debilitating balance nerves to “die” they cause causing pain, numbtherapy allow the blood ves- cells examination atbegin the end of weakness, this 4) will Stabilize the nerve damage is commonly caused by rious side effects. (see the speyou tohas have balance problems, to grow ness, tingling, and thesels most de- back around the peprovider’s at article) doctor told you to just live problems. This damage Call ourseverity office The today experienced to make an a lack of blood flow to is the cialprovideneuropathy pain, numbness, tingling, burn-problems. ripheralThis nerves and them bilitating balance appointment to the determine if your Medical Center nerves in the hands by and feet of commonly caused a lack Compass The treatment to increase with the problem or try the examination at the end of this ing, and many additional sympwith the proper nutrients to heal damage is commonly caused by In order to effectively treat your

The most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your neuropathy is with prescription drugs that The most common method your may reduce doctortemporarily will recommend to treat your symptoms. neuropathy isThese with drugs preyour scription drugs that may tempohave such as rarily generic reduce names your symptoms. These drugs have generic names Gabapentin, Amitriptyline, such as Gabapentin, Amitriptyor Lyrica andand areare primarily line, or Lyrica primarily antidepressant oror anti-seizure antidepressant anti-seizure drugs. These drugs may cause drugs. These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and you uncomfortable haveto a feel variety of harmful sideand effects. have a variety of harmful side effects.

which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow.

neuropathy can be treated:

toms. article) and repair. adding water neuropathy three factors mustofbeblood flow a lack to theIt’s like to a plant and seeing the roots determined. nerves isin that theyour hands grow anddeeper feet and deeper. The main problem In order to effectively treat your 1) What doctor is the underlying cause? which causes nerves to begin has told you to justthe live neuropathy three factors must be 2) How with Much Nerve Damage to degenerate due to lack of nuthe problem or try the drugs As you can see in Figure 2, as determined. Has Been Sustained? Figure 1: Notice the very small blood which you don’t taking betrient like flow. The amount of treatment needed the blood vessels that surround vessels surrounding each nerve. 1) What is the NOTE: Once sustained cause you theyhave make you feel unto allow the nerves to fully re- underlying cause? the nerves become diseased they 1300 South Main Street 2) How Much Nerve Damage 85% nerve loss, thereThere is nothing comfortable. is now a fa-

cover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. As long as Figure 3: The blood vessels will grow you have not sustained at least back around nerves much 85% nerve the damage then like youra plant’s roots grow when watered. condition can been treated.

can do a neuropathy severity The experienced providers at the examination to determine the Compass Medical Center can do aof the neuropathy severity extent nerve damage. examination to determine the This neuropathy severity examextent of the nerve damage. ination consist of aseverity detailed This will neuropathy examination will consist of a sensory evaluation, physical detailed sensory evaluation, examination, diagnostic testing, physical examination, and a detailedtesting, analysisand of thea diagnostic detailed of analysis of the findings findings your neuropathy. of your neuropathy.

Call our office today to make Call our office today to make an an appointment to determine appointment to determine if your if neuropathy can be can treated: your neuropathy be treated:

SouthRoad Main#17 Street 24781300 Patterson Snowflake, Grand Junction, AZ CO 85937 81505

536-5525 (970)(928) 985-4506

All major health insurances accepted including Medicare.

All majo accepted

Why work with a local, licensed Medicare Agent? By Stephanie Garcia-Hagen You’ve seen the ads on tv where celebrities endorse extra benefits available to you if you qualify for Medicare. You’ve heard your friends that are Medicare-age tell you that the process is so confusing. And, you’ve received every advertisement for every insurance company under the sun. Where do you start? Research online? Go to an educational community seminar? Then what?

GRAND RE-OPENING After extensive renovations we will re-open for business on March 16th. Stop by and see the work we’ve completed at the historic Doc Shores House -- but more importantly, speak with a local, licensed insurance agent to answer all of your Medicare questions.

The answer is to find a local agent who is certified to offer any option available. Being certified takes many hours of classes and extensive testing. A local agent has relationships with insurance carriers and knows the ins and outs of how the Medicare community operates. The licensed local agent also has relationships with other professionals that offer services. Do you need help with making your food last through the end of the month? We have relationships with those resources. Do you need a financial advisor? We have relationships with people who provide those services. Do you just need someone to talk to and gather ideas? Your local agent is here to help. We also have a relationship with you, the Medicare Beneficiary. We are here to help and walk with you through one of the most confusing processes that you encounter. I am a local agent. I am here to help. My office is in the Medicare Resource Center. Come see me.

327 North 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 To speak with a licensed agent call 970-243-3100, TTY Users 711 AGENT OF THE MONTH MedicareResourceCenter.com is a non-government resource privately owned and operated by Benefits Life, Inc. MedicareResourceCenter.com is not associated with or endorsed by Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or any other government agency.

Stephanie Garcia-Hagen Mesa Benefits (970) 640-2760 stephanie@mesabenefits.com