Senior adventurers experience thrills from 13,000 feet Formerly
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$3,649 PER PERSON*
Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs for Las Vegas. We’ll overnight at the center of the glittering “Fremont Street Experience.”
Day 2: See Sin City’s top hotels and largest casinos including the Venetian, the Mirage and famed Caesars Palace. Also see the over-the-top architecture of New York, the Paris Eiffel Tower and the Fountains of the Bellagio. Visit the Valley of Fire State Park, and be amazed by the landscape. Later, come to Zion National Park where your classic wilderness lodge and dinner await.
Day 3: Enjoy the beauty of Zion National Park. Known for its diverse geographies such as soaring red sandstone cliffs, emerald pools and rock formations such as “Court of the Patriarchs” and “Great White Throne.”
Day 4: Depart Zion this morning and come to Rhyolite ghost town. Set in the Bullfrog Hills, Rhyolite was once a “rip-roaring” gold mining community. It is now an authentic ghost town. Nearby are the huge outdoor sculptures created by Belgian artists at the Goldwell Open Air Museum.
Day 5: Spend your day at Death Valley National Park. Begin the day at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to learn the history of this fascinating park. Then stop at the ruins of the Harmony Borax Works. You will also stop at Badwater Basin, Devil’s Golf Course, Zabriskie Point and Stovepipe Wells.
Day 6: Before leaving the park, stop at Father Crowley Vista Point. Come to Manzanar National Historic Site. Later, arrive in Palm Springs, a desert resort city once famous for its restoring springs and health tourism.
Day 7: Begin the day with an exciting journey aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. See the rugged Chino Canyon and Coachella from the top of San Jacinto Peak.
Day 8: This morning there is a group transfer to Palm Springs International Airport for flights back to Colorado Springs.
*$3649 per person, double occupancy. Please add $1379 for a single occupancy. Price includes roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, 8-day fully escorted tour aboard a luxury motorcoach, 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners, all taxes and surcharges. Deposit of $200 per person is due to secure your reservation; optional travel insurance is $250 per person.
May 3-14, 2024
$4,865 PER PERSON*
Save an additional $250 off per person when booked by June 30!
Day 1: Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 2: Welcome to Amsterdam, you will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Cruises StarShip. Become acquainted with the amenities of your ship or begin exploring the city.
Day 3: Depart by coach for an included visit to Keukenhof Gardens. Discover why it’s called the ‘Garden of Europe’ as you admire gorgeous flowers at the peak of tulip season. Return to the ship for your first day cruising through the Dutch countryside.
Day 4: Cruise along the Rhine River to Cologne, Germany. Visit Cologne Botanical Gardens, take a walking tour of the city, see historic monuments and conclude at the World–Heritage listed gothic cathedral.
Day 5: Cruise to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. See the German Corner where the 2 rivers meet, the Church of Our Lady, and visit the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress by cable.
Day 6: Relax onboard as the vessel cruises along the Rhine River to Ludwigshafen. Upon arrival travel by coach to visit Schwetzingen Palace. Visit the interior of the palace, along with the beautiful gardens, maintained in their original design.
Day 7: Travel by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in France. Your guided walking tour includes the Grande Île - the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 8: Experience a guided walking tour of the ‘tale of two cities’: Breisach, Germany and Neuf-Breisach, France, divided by the Rhine River.
Day 9: Disembark the ship in Basel and begin your Swiss adventure in Lucerne. An included walking tour highlights the city’s landmark – the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall and town squares, all set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Swiss Alps.
Day 10: Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. Discover why it’s called the “Garden of Europe” as you wander along the paths, admiring gorgeous flowers at the peak of tulip season. Return to the ship in the afternoon to explore the city of Amsterdam at your leisure.
Day 11: Bid ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life enriching experiences from your European adventure.
in Lucerne, all port fees and taxes, all gratuities, shore excursion in each port, all taxes and surcharges.
$2,985 PER PERSON*
Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs and arrive in New Orleans. Gaze at the spectacular sights of New Orleans from the comfort of a luxury coach on an unforgettable 3-hour city tour.
Day 2: Trace the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain and Great River Road en route to Oak Alley Plantation. After your day in New Orleans, board your lovely ship and depart down the mighty Mississippi.
Day 3: In Nottoway, Louisiana you will visit the estate of sugarcane magnate Randolph Nottoway. You’ll also visit the charming town of White Castle. This evening, we’ll ring in the New Year aboard our lovely ship!
Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture.
Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of historic homes.
Day 6: Vicksburg blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this port carries a history unlike any other!
Day 7: Today is a river cruising day.
Day 8: As we port in New Orleans, we say goodbye to Southern Charm and depart for the airport for our flight home.
*Price includes: Interior Stateroom $2685 per person/double occupancy, roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, pre-cruise hotel, 7-day escorted cruise, all meals/drinks onboard the ship, all transfers, all tours as described, all taxes and surcharges.
Days 1 & 2: Depart Colorado Springs, arrive in Turkey, check-in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Day 3: Start your tour in Istanbul. Your city tour of Istanbul includes the Hippodrome Roman, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Topkapi Palace and finally end at the Grand Bazaar.
Day 4: Depart for a visit to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest shrines ever built. A highlight of the day will be the scenic cruise on the Bosphorus by private boat. Sail past the medieval hilltop fortress of Rumeli. Afterwards drive to Ankara, the capital of Turkey.
Day 5: Start exploring the capital city of Turkey with the Anatolian Civilizations Museum where you will have the chance to discover the archeological findings that belong to Hittites, Urartians, Phrygians and many other civilizations which had left traces in the cradle of civilizations, Anatolia.
Day 6: Explore Cappadocia with its unique landscapes formed by erosions of winds and water. Continue to Pasabag Valley. Your next stop is Kaymakli Underground City, a subterranean settlement composed of troglodytic cave dwellings providing shelter for early Christians protecting themselves from invaders. Continue to the rockcarved natural citadel of Uchisar promising a superb view of the region from its top. The last stop of today’s touring before returning to the hotel is Avanos, the famous town of Cappadocia that was established by the Hittites on the riverbanks of Halys River.
Day 7: You will be driven to Konya that was called Iconium during the Roman period and was an important post for Roman legion and control of the trade routes of antiquity.
Day 8: Start your exploration with Hierapolis founded during the Hellenistic period as a control point of trading routes connecting East to West.
Day 9: Explore the timeless city of Ephesus where history and archaeology will offer you their majesty with incredible richness.
Day 10: Depart from the hotel to explore the Greco-Roman city of Pergamon famous for its Asclepion, the ancient medical center of which its purpose was most like a spa of the 19th century. Leaving the Asclepion, you will see the Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, and the Temples of Athena, Trajan and Dionysus. Continue your drive to the very well known ancient city of Troy. You will be thrilled by the ancient city that witnessed the battle of heroes.
Day 11: You will be driven to Istanbul. Your scenic drive will first take you to Gallipoli, the site of the incredible battle played out here during World War I.
More about our new name and our big plans for the future
6 COVER STORY
The Sky’s NOT the Limit
These local senior daredevils experience thrills from 13,000 feet
8 7 Hacks for Fun, Stress-Free Road Travel with the Grandkids
And a list of kid-friendly pit stops that aren’t the aquarium or the zoo
10 Recipe: Spiced Pork Ribs
Bringing a touch of heat to summer cookouts can be a breeze with mild hot sauces added to dishes like this one
12 The Impressive Benefits of Eating Jackfruit
This large oblong fruit is considered a superfood because of its incredible and edible benefits
20 Happiness is Not Just a Warm Puppy
45+ happy things that I’m grateful for
21 Kitty Toy Guide
Downsizing? Here are six toys that can keep your cat active in smaller spaces
22 Toronto & Niagara: A Perfect Pair
A valid passport is your ticket to visit two fabulous places for the price of one
Sustainable methods that can help you care for and control your garden weeds 13
28 CALENDARS 28 Calendar 33 Question of the Month 38 Fun & Games 40 Classifieds 42 Opinion: “Buying American” has Gotten Darned Difficult 25
The
We’ve been counting down to our July issue and our new name and it’s finally here!
The BEACON is actually the third name for this publication. It began as the Senior Times before it was changed to Life After 50. Our new tagline even has our former name embedded within: “Living Your Best Life After 50.”
I’ll likely be a repeat offender of slipping up and calling it by our old name, but I’m confident my brain can be retrained and so can yours.
On the following pages, you’ll find the local content for seniors that you’re used to and our columns on health, tech, gardening, faith and caretaking, an extensive calendar of events and resources for groups and activities—all distributed at the usual spots (and some new ones!).
But this is just a fraction of what’s to come. We’re still finessing some of the whens and hows, but I’m going to shine a beacon (what else?) on our big plans for the future.
BeaconSeniorNews.com
Check out our new website!
It’s been a long time coming, but our new website is live! This new platform features exclusive stories with video content, recipes and an online calendar that allows readers and local organizations to post their events free of charge.
BEACON Guide:
This annual resource guide contains contact information for services and programs to make your life easier, healthier and fun in these golden years. There are similar guides out there, but ours includes hard-to-find contact information for local clubs and activities, statewide programs and national resources in one easy-to-use publication. Plus, we person -
ally call every telephone number listed so our readers have the most up-to-date information. Interspersed are informative articles on how to manage, what to watch for and new ideas for enjoying your golden years.
BeaconFest: A senior fair that’s fun! I’ve been to our sister publication’s event in Grand Junction, and wow! It is a force to be reckoned with! It’s tough to do it justice, but I’ll describe it as a “celebration of age” and an “educational party” for our readers. Not only are you gathering loads of helpful information, but you’re also meeting people, playing games, enjoying delicious food samples, tapping your foot to live music, winning a prize if you’re lucky and “oohing” and “aahing” over impressively designed booths. We look forward to bringing the party to Colorado Springs once we find a suitable venue that can accommodate a celebration of such magnitude.
1.5 million Coloradans—that’s 30 percent of us—are age 50 or older. While you may have observed how others age (and think to yourself which attributes you do or don’t want to emulate), none of us have prior experience to fall back on. We only cross each age threshold when we arrive there ourselves. We shouldn’t pressure ourselves to instinctively know all the answers to an age and stage we’ve never been.
That’s where the BEACON comes in. We’ll help guide you with resources and understanding, along with heartfelt words and some laughs for levity.
A beacon is a guiding light. That’s what our newly christened magazine is all about—helping you navigate the uncertainties of the senior years by shining a light on options so that you can live your best life ever. At times we’ll look backward with warm nostalgia, and we’ll never stop reminding you of all the living and loving that’s still ahead.
Turn the page, readers. The BEACON beckons.
We moved here about a year ago and found your magazine in a grocery store. We find it really interesting. Sometimes we forget to look for it so we want to get a subscription.
- John C.Hi BEACON buddies! Good luck with your re-branding effort. If it’s the same great content, you should do fine.
-
Rob L.The writers of your magazine articles do superb work. I continually keep a lookout for recipes that fit my lifestyle.
- Norma C.When I get caught up on my reading, I’ll subscribe again. I really enjoy reading and really like that you have ads for people who do Medicare and stuff—even your advertising reaches out to people our age.
- Sheila M.
Keep up the good work of informing our seniors!
- Jim W.
Be the artist of your own garden (May) Those photos look tasty! I want one of each.
- Marta L.Harmonizing fellas sing a cappella (May) Thanks Life After 50! We’re very excited to show our patrons “Why We Sing” and to host the 2018 BHS International Champion Quartet After Hours.
- America the Beautiful Chorus
My uncle is in [the chorus]. We go every year to this and their Christmas show.
- Taylor H.
Culinary creations keep Armour content (September 2020)
I was wondering whatever happened to the El Perdido and found this article. Back in late ’70s, our gang of 20-somethings would meet for morning coffee and hang out at Boot’s and Anne’s. I was the motel desk clerk at Cheyenne Village and would order the Mission Bell’s delicious sopapillas and have them brought across the street.
- Anonymous
You’ve probably heard tales of great exploits by seniors like John Glenn flying high on a Space Shuttle mission at age 77; Minoru Saito, 77, sailing nonstop around the world; William Ivy Baldwin, 82, tightrope walking 125 feet above a Colorado canyon and Nola Ochs graduating from college at age 95.
Great accomplishments all, but a local club’s derring-do and roster of risky activities puts them firmly in the camp of those exceptional aging achievers.
Chances are you’d never recognize these thrill-seeking residents of The Palisades at Broadmoor Park if you passed them on the
It all started when one of the residents, retired nurse Julie Templin, 77, mentioned that skydiving was on her bucket list. A few other residents caught wind of it and plans started percolating.
On the appointed day, when Fran Capritta, The Palisades’ executive director, drove the group to Colorado Mountain Skydive in Penrose to board the small plane, her nerves nearly got
“I actually wanted to vomit,” Capritta recalled. “I was having little mini heart attacks the entire
Doubt and dread notwithstanding, each of them jumped out of the plane.
“We’re living now!” enthused bucket-list instigator Templin when she made contact with the earth after descending at 120-plus miles per hour. Though she’d hoped to pull off an aerial flip for a landing with pizzazz, she settled for a somersault on the ground.
Nonagenarian Don Downs, the comic of the
group, vividly recalls taking the plunge.
“They threw me out of the plane like a rag doll!” joked Downs, 91, a former Marine and retired dentist. “But it was a world of fun, and I’d do it again for sure!”
Another jumper, Jeff Dunne, 78, had second (and third, fourth and fifth!) thoughts as the nerves hit nearing takeoff time.
“Initially, I wasn’t scared,” said Dunne, “but when you’re the first one in line getting ready to jump, you start thinking, ‘Why in the world am I doing this?’”
Dunne, an investor, developer and property manager who lives with Parkinson’s, said the landing was the hardest part of the skydiving experience. Getting his legs folded up before hitting the ground, as he was instructed to do, seemed all but impossible but he succeeded.
Soaring among the clouds a couple miles above the ground or navigating rapids from a raft are the last activities you’d associate with The Palisades at Broadmoor Park, a senior community in southwest Colorado Springs. But behind
The view from the Adventurers’ skydiving plane a few thousand feet above Penrose, Colorado. Jeff Dunn, Sarah Riggs (Director of Health Services at The Palisades at Broadmoor Park), Don Downs and Julie Templin pose for a group photo shortly before jumping out of an airplane.“THEY THREW ME OUT OF THE PLANE LIKE A RAG DOLL! BUT IT WAS A WORLD OF FUN, AND I’D DO IT AGAIN FOR SURE.”
Senior daredevils experience thrills from 13,000 feet high
its doors are grandparents with gumption, just itching to challenge themselves physically and mentally. They don’t know how to act their age—and that’s a good thing.
When Palisades residents were asked about activities they’d like to try, several intrepid spirits’ age-defying suggestions and zeal for outsidethe-box experiences bubbled to the surface. This group of risk-takers formed the Adventurers Club.
Their initial challenge was rock climbing at a local indoor facility. That whet their appetite and before you could say, “Pull the ripcord!” the skydiving plan took shape a few months later.
Horseback riding was next. Currently, plans are in the works for whitewater rafting, hot air ballooning, adaptive skiing and ziplining across the Royal Gorge.
The club members share a common thirst for fulfilling their dreams, pushing themselves physically and conquering their fears. They take the edge off aging with exercise, socialization and fun by confronting the outdoor obstacle course that is the Rocky Mountain region.
Club member Dee Anderson, 88, a former teacher, is no stranger to embracing new challenges. She ran her first marathon at 59 and completed the Pikes Peak Marathon (up Barr Trail to the top of Pikes Peak and down) when she was 65. She even ran with the Olympic torch
before the winter games in 2002.
Another club member, Stephen Smith, 71, had just finished running the 2013 Boston Marathon when it was bombed. He knows what it’s like to face fear head-on.
Capritta helped spearhead the club and has led it for the past two years. The Palisades seniors come up with the activities and she handles the logistics (including making sure all the necessary liability waivers have been signed!).
Capritta hopes to break down stereotypes of aging. With her enthusiasm leading the way, there’s not much her Adventurers won’t try.
“People have to have a purpose, whether they’re 9 or 90,” said Capritta. “My residents have learned that the ailments and challenges
that come with aging don’t have to be a barrier to what they want to do.”
Capritta believes that just because you have lived a long time doesn’t mean there aren’t new experiences you can still have.
“Nothing should be off the table. We just need to get past our own biases on what people can do at whatever age,” said Capritta.
If anything, Downs encourages others to take the leap—literally or figuratively.
“Go for it while you can, because you’re not going to last forever!” he advised. “Be curious, because you just might learn something.”
If you happen to see a group of bikers doing wheelies as they cruise down South Academy, you’d better take another look. It just might be the Palisades Adventurers off on their next escapade!
Author’s note: At 73, I’m no spring chicken and certainly qualify age-wise for Adventurers Club exploits. However, when I heard of their plans to zipline across the Royal Gorge—all 2,500 feet long of it, with a 136-foot vertical drop, at a top speed of 40 mph—I said a quick “No thanks” and headed out the door! T
Julie Templin enthusiastically celebrates her return to earth from 13,000 feet up in the sky.“THE AILMENTS AND CHALLENGES THAT COME WITH AGING DON’T HAVE TO BE A BARRIER TO WHAT THEY WANT TO DO. NOTHING SHOULD BE OFF THE TABLE. WE NEED TO GET PAST OUR OWN BIASES ON WHAT PEOPLECAN
DO AT WHATEVER AGE.”Jeff Dunn flew like a bird for a few memorable moments on the Adverturer’s Club trip with jumpers from Colorado Mountain Skydive.
By Kimberly Blaker
Taking a road trip with grandkids can be a fun adventure for grandkids and grandparents alike. The question is: Are you prepared for the sibling squabbles, food and drink spills, umpteen rest stops and being asked a hundred times or more, “Are we there yet?”
With a little pre-planning, you can drastically reduce the hassles and turn your time on the road into a fun, family experience for all.
Restroom breaks. Immediately before heading out, have everyone go to the bathroom, whether they need to or not. Just before and while on the road, limit beverages, particularly caffeinated ones, to reduce the frequency of restroom stops. When you do have to stop for something, have everyone use the restroom again, and don’t accept anyone’s claim, “I don’t need to go.”
Reduce stops. Strategize where you choose to stop so you can cover all the bases at once. Fuel up, grab food and beverages, use the restroom, and go for a walk or play a game of tag so everyone can stretch and exercise.
Drive through the night. Kids typically sleep through the night on the road. It’ll seem like they’ve reached your destination in the blink of an eye, which will reduce your overall stress. So long as night driving isn’t an issue, adults can switch off driving while the other one sleeps.
Snacks and drinks. Bring along a cooler and a variety of drinks and snacks to reduce pit stops. Breaking up the time with small meals and snacks will also help keep kids pacified. When packing snacks, include some nutritious ones like
carrot sticks and apples. Also, keep in mind the messiness of particular types of foods. To reduce messes, avoid foods that melt, smear and squish, such as chocolate, cupcakes and yogurt.
Plan fun or scenic stops. Do some advance research to find a fun stop along the way, and build it into your vacation. Look for a state or national park, national monument, beach, kiddie fun land, river walk or water park.
Car entertainment. Before your trip, visit the library to pick out books, audiobooks, movies and music CDs. Bringing along a portable DVD player or tablet with downloaded movies. Headphones are always a good idea unless you want to hear the music of “CoCo” all the time. But don’t let the kids have the items until you’re on the road. That way, the kids will have fresh entertainment. Also, take along some car games, and print a list of games that don’t require pieces to play. Some ideas to get you started:
• The license plate game. Have everyone write down the states of the license plates as they spot them. The person with the most states wins.
• The “Would you rather?” game. Take turns asking everyone what their choice would be between two gross or unpleasant situations. For example, would you rather be trapped in a closet that’s crawling with hundreds of centipedes or eat a worm?
Screen time. While limiting kids’ daily screen time is a best practice, consider making an exception for your road trip. Depending on the length of your drive, it can be a challenge to keep kids amused for the duration despite all the other entertainment you bring along. Limit their screen time on the road by allowing them 30-minute cycles of screen time broken up by other activities.
“Are we there yet?”
“Are we there yet?”
(that aren’t the aquarium or the zoo)
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool 415 E. 6th St., Glenwood Springs HotSpringsPool.com | 970-945-6571
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, Glenwood Springs GlenwoodCaverns.com | 970-945-4228
Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park 4821 Hwy 84, Pagosa Springs PagosaWildlifePark.com | 970264-5546
Trailhead Children’s Museum 606 6th St., Crested Butte TrailheadKids.org | 970-349-7160
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 479 Main St., Silverton 970-247-273
Mountain Top Explorium 100 S. Park Ave., Breckenridge MountainTopBreck.org | 970-453-7878
Dinosaur Ridge 16831 W. Alameda Pkwy, Morrison DinoRidge.org | 303-697-3466
Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster Butterflies.org | 303-469-5441
Summer Tubing Hill in Granby YMCARockies.org | 970-586-3341
Mesa Verde National Park nps.gov/meve/index.htm | 970-529-4465
Colorado Gators Reptile Park 9162 Lane 9 North, Mosca ColoradoGators.com | 719-378-2612
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site 35110 CO-194, La Junta nps.gov/beol/index.htm | 719-383-5010
Meow Wolf Denver 1338 1st St., Denver tickets.meowwolf.com/denver | 866-636-9969
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery 408 Mason Ct., Fort Collins FCMOD.org | 970-221-6738
Kit Carson County Carousel 815 15th St., Burlington KitCarsonCountyCarousel.com | 719-348-5562 ■
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Recipe courtesy of TajÌn.com/us
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs
1/4 cup Tajín Clásico Seasoning
1/4 cup Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, plus additional for serving, divided 2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar lime wedges, for serving mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving (optional)
Directions
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Bake 21/2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and just starting to fall off bone.
Preheat broiler. Unwrap ribs and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 4-6 minutes on middle oven rack, or until lightly charred and caramelized.
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Serve with lime wedges and additional hot sauce.
Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed white rice, if desired. ■
See more recipes at BeaconSeniorNews.com
Dear Laird: I love my wife. We’ve had a wonderful life. Now I am 80 and she has dementia. I want to care for her myself as long as I can. But why is it so hard? Signed, Arthur right now most families still go it alone.
Dear Arthur: I cared for my wife who suffered from dementia for 10 years. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. It was only after her death, and after I began researching caregiving, that I began to recover from the stress. There are several reasons why caregiving for a loved one is so hard:
• We’re living longer. The older we get, the greater the chance of developing dementia. It affects 5% of Americans aged 70-79, 16% of those aged 80-89 and 31% that are 90 and older.
• Before 1920, more American families lived together or close by. If a family member was in need, there was almost always someone to care for them. Today, families are dispersed. Children go where the work is and have families of their own.
• Today, many couples are working, and women bear children at a later age. This means some working women are caring for school-age children and aging parents at the same time.
• Most of us grew up without knowing what dementia was. Alzheimer’s disease wasn’t often diagnosed until the 1980s. Dementia in a family member was often kept under wraps. Few resources were available and our governments provided little help. That is changing, but
• Caring for someone all day every day is physically exhausting.
• Emotionally, we struggle with the grief of watching a loved one slowly and continuously lose the ability to function, along with who they are.
We are at the dawn of a new age of caregiving. There is some help available now. The Area Agency on Aging is a great resource for information and assistance. The Alzheimer’s Association website (alz.org) has lots of tips and useful information, and the Colorado chapter facilitates dozens of support groups throughout the state.
Our Caregiver Support Foundation works closely with both to provide support groups, both online and in person. Because family caregiving is lonely and few people understand what we face, we must reach out for help and friendship from other caregivers. Caregiver groups are a lifeline. ■
Family-Caregiver.org has a thoughtful video on the history of caregiving, why it’s so hard and ways to cope.
Watch the video online at BeaconSeniorNews.com
To match you with the right Medicare Advantage plan to meet your needs
Humana is committed to providing you with the right Medicare coverage for you.
That means helping you choose the plan that meets your healthcare needs and your budget. Like a Medicare Advantage plan that includes everything Original Medicare has—and may have benefits you might not get with Medicare Part A and Part B.
Humana strives to go above and beyond to help you get the care you need. That’s called human care. Stop by and speak to a licensed Humana sales agent in your community
Humana MarketPoint® office
7700‑532‑719 (TTY: 711)
Come visit me at:
Humana MarketPoint® office
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Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711).
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Send your questions to Laird in care of the BEACON, or email him at Laird@Family-Caregiver.org
At Rocky Mountain PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly), we offer coordinated and holistic services to meet seniors’ health care needs.
Our goal is to help older adults live better and maintain the highest level of independence possible.
From medical and wellness needs to social and other support services, our team is here to keep you or your loved one’s health on the right track.
Residents of El Paso County who live in the following zip codes:
80132, 80133, 80817, 80829, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80914, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924, 80925, 80927, 80939, 80951
• RELEVANT: An extensive resource directory with articles and contact information for clubs, programs and businesses geared to helping local seniors
• RELIABLE: We call to verify every listing for accuracy
• REPUTABLE: BEACON Senior News (formerly Life After 50) is the trusted voice of Colorado Springs seniors
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit commonly found in South America, India, Africa and Asia, but you can usually find it in U.S. grocery stores in late July through early September.
This large oblong fruit grows on evergreen trees that can get up to 30 meters tall. While most jackfruit are 20-30 pounds, some can weigh up to 100 pounds!
This super-sized fruit is considered a superfood because of its incredible vitamin and mineral profile. Most people absorb its healthful benefits by eating the “meat” of the fruit, but it can also be applied topically. Extracts of jackfruit and its seeds are very high in vitamins A and C, which are both great for the skin. Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which helps firm the skin and keeps it looking supple and elastic. Both vitamins help repair wounds and sun damage from UVA/UVB rays, which means that inflammation in the skin is reduced and wrinkles are less likely to form.
People also use jackfruit to improve scalp health. Applying the fruit directly to the scalp and letting it soak in for about 30 minutes (then rinsing) seems to alleviate scalp problems. If you try this, I
recommend you do it before you take a shower because things can get sticky.
People eat jackfruit because it tastes good and is sustainably grown (the trees do not require irrigation, and no pesticides or herbicides are used). Some people say it tastes like something between a pineapple and mango, but because of its fibrous texture, it’s also used as a vegan meat alternative—kind of like tofu.
Jackfruit contains antioxidants that support and boost immune system health and functioning. It’s a source of vitamin B6, riboflavin, magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium and potassium, as well as fiber, protein and phytochemicals. Like many other fruits, jackfruit is a powerful antioxidant with antimicrobial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic qualities. It also increases white blood cell production and may help with muscle cramps, aches and pains.
I’ve used this extract in one of my skincare formulas. It’s amazing to think you can transform your skin while you sleep! (See SuzyCohen.com for more information on my “Sleeping with Jack” sleep mask.) ■
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world. But the good news is it’s also the cancer you can actually see on your body. By learning to recognize the warning signs of the disease, you can identify suspicious spots before they become dangerous. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when diagnosed at an early stage, but if left to grow, they can become disfiguring or even deadly. This is why early detection is so important.
“I’ve had many patients point to something they found on their skin and ask, ‘What’s that?’” said Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Sometimes it was a person’s partner who pushed them to get a spot checked out. We all have the power to speak up about a suspicious lesion on our own body or the skin
One in five Americans will get skin cancer by age 70.
Anyone can get skin cancer regardless of race, ethnicity or skin tone, but some people are at higher risk than others. People with very fair skin are extremely susceptible to skin damage as well as to skin cancers. People with dark skin tones are generally less vulnerable to UV damage because of the type of melanin darker skin produces, and how it is distributed. However, when they do develop skin cancer, it tends to be found at a more advanced and dangerous stage.
Other risk factors for skin cancer include a history of sunburns, a history of tanning (outside or in a tanning bed) and a family or per-
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The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you perform a head-to-toe self-exam every month to look for potential skin cancers. Some things to look for include a growth that changes in size, thickness, color or texture. Skin cancers can appear pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black or multicolored. You should also pay attention to any sore or spot that continues to itch, hurt, crust or bleed, or spots that are slow to heal.
The Ugly Duckling rule is something else to keep in mind during a self-exam. The rule is based on the concept that normal moles on the body resemble each other, while melanoma (a dangerous form of
skin cancer) can stand out like an ugly duckling. These lesions can be larger, smaller, lighter or darker in contrast to surrounding moles. Isolated lesions without surrounding moles for comparison are also considered ugly ducklings.
Since all skin cancers present differently, the most important tip is to be on the lookout for anything new, changing or unusual. If you spot anything suspicious during your self-exam, make an appointment with a dermatologist right away. You can find more information on how to perform a self-exam and how to prepare for an annual exam at SkinCancer.org ■
Submitted by Betsy Blake
A seemingly nice and respectable lady went into a pharmacy, walked up to the pharmacist and said, “I would like to buy some cyanide.”
The pharmacist asked, “Why in the world do you need cyanide?”
The lady replied, “I need it to poison my husband.”
The pharmacist’s eyes got big.
“I can’t give you cyanide to kill your husband!” he exclaimed. “That’s against the law! I’ll lose my license! They’ll throw us both in jail! Absolutely not! I will not give you any cyanide!”
The lady reached into her purse and pulled out a picture of her husband in bed with the pharmacist’s wife. The pharmacist looked at the picture and replied, “You didn’t tell me you had a prescription.”
Submitted by Maryann Ramirez
I have good news for you. The first 80 years are the hardest. After that, it’s just a succession of birthday parties.
Once you reach 80 everyone wants to carry your baggage and help you up the steps. If you forget your name or anybody else’s name, an appointment, your telephone number or promise to be three places at the same time or you can’t remember how many grandchildren you have, you need only explain that you are 80.
Being 80 is a lot better than being 70. At 70, people are mad at you for everything. At 80 you have a perfect excuse no matter what you do.
If you act foolishly, it’s your second childhood. Everybody is
looking for symptoms of softening of the brain.
At 70, they expect you to retire to a house in Florida and complain about your arthritis. You ask everybody to stop mumbling because you can’t understand them.
If you survive until you’re 80, everybody is surprised that you are still alive. They treat you with respect just for having lived so long. Actually, they seem surprised that you can walk and talk sensibly. So please, folks, try to make it to 80. It’s the best time of your life. People forgive you for anything.
Submitted by Karen Jones
Begin by standing on a comfortable surface, where you have plenty of room at each side. With a 5-pound potato bag in each hand, extend your arms straight out from your sides and hold them there as long as you can. Try to reach a full minute and then relax.
Each day you’ll find that you can
hold this position for just a bit longer. After a couple of weeks, move up to 10-pound potato bags. Then try 50-pound potato bags, and then eventually try to get to where you can lift a 100-pound potato bag in each hand and hold your arms straight for more than a full minute.
After you feel confident at that level, put a potato in each bag.
Submitted by Will Sanborn
Men say that women should come with instructions, but then what’s the point of that? Have you ever seen a man actually read the instructions?
Submitted by Debra Mann
The doctor answered the phone one evening and heard the familiar voice of a colleague on the other end of the line.
“We need a fourth for poker,” said the colleague.
“I’ll be right over,” whispered the doctor.
As he was putting on his coat, his wife asked, “Is it serious?”
“Oh yes, quite serious,” said the doctor gravely. “In fact, there are three doctors there already!”
Submitted by Shari Lindsey
A real man is a woman’s best friend. He will never stand her up and never let her down. He will reassure her when she feels insecure and comfort her after a bad day. He will inspire her to do things she never thought she could do; to live without fear and forget regret. He will enable her to express her deepest emotions and give in to her most intimate desires. He will make sure she always feels as though she’s the most beautiful woman in the room and will enable her to be the most confident, sexy, seductive and invincible.
No wait. Sorry...I’m thinking of wine. It’s wine that does all that.
Submitted by Faye Baker
When I’m feeling down, I like to whistle. It makes the neighbor’s yappy dog run to the end of his chain and gag himself.
A penny saved is a government oversight.
The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing at the right time, but also to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.
The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight, because by then your body and your fat have gotten to be really good friends. The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
He who hesitates is probably right. Did you ever notice the Roman
numerals for 40 are XL?
If you think there is good in everybody, you haven’t met everybody.
If you can smile when things go wrong, you have someone in mind to blame.
The sole purpose of a child’s middle name is so he can tell when he’s really in trouble. There’s always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example I am sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don’t hurt.
Did you ever notice when you put the two words “the” and “IRS” together it spells “theirs”?
Submitted by Kathryn
Hermanstorfer
In the 1980s I worked in a college library. One day a student came in saying he wanted a book to read that wasn’t related to his classwork.
I led him to the shelf and said, “‘The All Creatures Great and Small’ books are popular right now.”
He must have misunderstood me because he replied, ‘Oh no Ma’am, my daddy is a preacher and I’ve had about all of that I can stand.”
Submitted by Jim Conklin
A pirate walks into a bar and sits down on a stool. As the bartender hands him his rum, he looks down and notices a giant steering wheel jutting out of the pirate’s pants!
The bartender says, “Excuse me, sir. Do you know you have a steering wheel coming out of your pants?”
The pirate replies, “Argghhhh! I know, and it’s drivin’ me nuts!” ■
Putting a parent in assisted living is such a hard decision, and I never expected my mom to be a true part of the community. 6 months ago you would never have convinced me she would participate in music, bingo, exercises, activities - and she’s now fully engaging in it all! When I visit I can always find her in the community areas having fun and thriving, and I can’t thank the Winslow Court staff enough.
719-597-1700
Whether you’re taking a day trip, weekend getaway or dream vacation, the unexpected can unfortunately happen.
If death occurs 75 miles or more away from home, your AFHA membership will take care of all costs, logistics and transportation needed to get your body home or cremated with no additional costs falling on your loved ones.
Growing up, I was told that dandelions were weeds and they don’t belong in the yard.
But after reading Katrina Blair’s “The Wild Wisdom of Weeds,” I now embrace dandelions and let them grow where they will. I even utilize them in salads and home remedies.
Blair’s book spells out all the valuable uses of certain weeds, including their nutritional value and ability to heal wounds and abscesses. Many weeds also add organic matter and food for beneficial microbes in the soil, and anchor the soil to combat erosion.
Now that I’ve come to understand these misplaced plants, I am selective about which kinds stay on my property. Some weeds are invasive and problematic, so I actively remove them from my garden.
Weeds are extremely adaptable to their surroundings. Think of the tamarisk that thrives along the
Colorado River on the other side of the world from its native habitat in China.
Dandelions gravitate to soils low in calcium. They set down a tap root up to three feet deep and pull calcium up from the subsoil into the leaves so that when those leaves die back, the calcium is available for next year’s crop. From that vantage point, when we see dandelions this year, we’ll see calcium next year.
Broadleaf weeds seek soils
where the available potassium exceeds the available phosphorus. Increasing the ratio of phosphorus to potassium will result in a definite reduction in broadleaf weeds. Or, when you see a broadleaf weed in your garden, you know that’s a great spot for root crops that crave potassium.
Other weeds that attract themselves to high potassium soils are stinging nettles, kochia and bindweed. Mustard and plantain grow where there’s sulfur available. Wild lettuce indicates a soil high in magnesium and zinc, while comfrey and horsetail fern mine silica out of the soil. For a person seeking to create mineral-rich compost, these weeds would all be good additions, as they accumulate minerals in their leaves and stalks that are released when they decompose.
There are several sustainable ways to control weeds.
Mulch is a game changer for both weed suppression and moisture retention in the soil. Cardboard overlapped eight inches or newspaper that’s at least four sheets thick can suppress weeds and add organic matter to the soil. Straw and leaves do the same, though I prefer straw as it stays in place far better than leaves.
Plastic mulch has become popular on vegetable production farms. Black plastic suppresses weed growth and lowers the soil
temperature by shading it from the sun’s rays. White plastic reflects light up under large canopy crops such as tomatoes and okra. Red plastic increases tomato yields, blue plastic increases pollination in melons and cucumbers, and silver plastic has been documented to lower thrips populations on crops.
Flame weeding is an extremely effective non-chemical weed control. It used to be the most popular form of field weeding in the U.S. until chemical herbicides entered the market in the 1940s. I find this method to be kind of fun, so I don’t dread doing it. Plus, it’s gratifying to see all the crinkled leaves and brown, dead weeds the next day.
Any weed burner will work. I used a three-gallon backpack tank on the farms I managed. Walking at a slow pace with a low flame burns the growth points of plants
and confuses them. It also doesn’t use much propane.
If you’re flaming weeds in your garden, shield your crops by placing a snow shovel at the base of the plant.
When weed whacking, weeds come back stronger in just three to five days. When you weedwhack bindweed, wild lettuce and plantain, you’re actually pruning it back and forcing the plant to grow two new sprouts where there was only one. Each successive weed whacking doubles the grow back.
With flame weeding, you’re cooking the tips of the leaves where the growth hormones are and
destroying the leaf tissue so that a new shoot must form at the roots and push up through the soil. This can take up to three weeks or more which is far more effective than weekly weed whacking.
Spraying pure vinegar on weeds is also very effective and is a much better alternative to chemical herbicides. Make sure to use 30% vinegar (acetic acid), which can be purchased from most garden centers and hardware stores. The standard grocery store vinegar is only 5-6% and won’t work on weeds.
Pure vinegar is also a main ingredient in naturally derived herbicide products, such as AllDown and Phydura. The most cost-effective way to use vinegar to control your weeds is to take down a majority of the weed biomass with a weed whacker or mower, then spray the vinegar on the remaining plant leaves and crown. It’s best to do it in the heat of the day when the sun is directly overhead. I do recommend wearing gloves when pouring the vinegar solution in a sprayer, as it can cause a rash on sensitive skin. And watch the wind; you don’t want to have the overspray harm the plants you want to keep happy! ■
Send your gardening questions to Bryan in care of the BEACON, or email him at BCReed@ColoradoMesa.edu
If you are between the ages of 50 and 66, the regulations make it easier for you to receive social security disability benefits. If you can no longer work because of a physical or mental health condition, call for a FREE CONSULTATION to find out if you qualify
What
”I would advise anyone trying to get disability benefits to call Diane Bross.
I was so pleased with how things went.” – G.V.
“After all of the time I waited and tried working through the system, Diane Bross managed to get me my disability insurance payments that I was needing. Thank you!” – Laura
“A special thanks to Diane Bross and her staff because without them I would not have my benefits. Because of them, I have regained my financial life. It’s back in order. No where to go but up. So, thank you very much.” –Mr. Winston
The year was 1960. I was an aspiring journalist and writer living in Phoenix, Arizona. And two creative television producers came up with a new TV series called “Route 66.”
The series was about two good-looking young guys who traveled around the U.S. in a blue Corvette, looking for adventure, romance and jobs, and came closer to telling the story of America in the 1960s than any other television series in history. The characters, blonde-haired Todd Stiles and dark-haired Buz Murdock, were a couple of free-spirited hippies that many viewers felt were loosely based on the characters Jack Kerouac created for his best-selling novel, “On The Road.” The TV series upset Kerouac so much that he actually considered filing a lawsuit against the television producers. The suit was never filed and the successful series produced 116 shows that ended in 1965.
The show really hit home for my brother John and me. Both of us followed the episodes which were shot on location around the coun -
try. The plots followed my own life so closely it was almost uncanny. I would move from state to state working on location, while Stiles and Murdock, played by Martin Milner and George Maharis, would find jobs in a California winery, on a Maine shrimp boat, on an offshore oil rig and in small towns that dotted the American landscape.
I used to love the plots that the
show’s creators Herbert B. Leonard and Stirling Silliphant crafted. Silliphant wrote nearly all the shows for the series, which usually depicted Maharis or Milner getting involved with a local beauty, or hanging around town until their Corvette could be repaired, or something darkly dangerous trapping them there until they figured their way out of a situation.
WHEN
Silliphant would often throw guest stars into his plot. During its four-year run, the show featured Boris Karloff, Peter Lorre, James Caan, Joan Crawford, Ben Johnson, Jack Lord, Lee Marvin, Walter Matthau, Robert Redford, Rod Steiger, Rip Torn and Tuesday Weld.
And who could forget the show’s theme song played by Nelson Riddle? It was glorious. It made you want to travel.
My brother and I were living in Phoenix when we somehow became owners of a small but racy British sports car. We owned the BMW for about six months and drove it around the Grand Canyon State to places like Show Low, Payson and Tucson.
We played the parts of carefree
young men on the prowl and the local beauties loved it. When we stopped at an A&W root beer stand in one small town, two local girls in shorts came up to our car and asked if we raced it. We told them a wonderful fabricated story I’m sure they didn’t believe.
I actually met Martin Milner when he stopped in Phoenix to do some production work. He had
Your time and wisdom are valuable. Become a Foster Grandparent Classroom Volunteer. You can share your skills and experience while children shower you with curiosity and hugs. Get involved with Volunteers of America’s Foster Grandparent Program.
• Do you love children and enjoy spending time with them?
• Are able to volunteer 15-40 hours per week helping children learn and succeed?
ended “Route 66” and was starring in “Adam-12”. He was very gracious and talked about the former series with warmth and affection for his co-star Maharis. I asked him the color of the Corvette since the series was filmed in black and white.
“We had several different Corvettes that we used, but it was generally light blue,” he said with a laugh.
That got me thinking. Maybe I could create a TV series about two poker players who traveled around the country in a sports car—say a red Corvette or a black BMW—and they could be broke in Las Vegas trying to raise enough cash to enter a poker tournament at Binion’s Horseshoe or The Orleans Casino. Yeah, that would work. ■
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WE STOPPED AT AN A&W ROOT BEER STAND IN ONE SMALL TOWN, TWO LOCAL GIRLS IN SHORTS CAME UP TO OUR CAR AND ASKED IF WE RACED IT. WE TOLD THEM A WONDERFUL FABRICATED STORY I’M SURE THEY DIDN’T BELIEVE.
By Happy Cappy Hall Rearick
Happiness is senior discounts, early bird specials and handicap parking.
Happiness is grandchildren who call even when it’s not your birthday.
Happiness is a warm fire and a new book yet to read.
Happiness is a paid-off mortgage.
Happiness is hearing the word “benign.”
Happiness is programming a new smartphone.
Happiness is enjoying seven days of weekends.
Happiness is an affordable haircut.
Happiness is still having hair.
Happiness is a Social Security check.
Happiness is sleeping in your own
bed after a long journey.
Happiness is a good mattress that lets you sleep through the night.
Happiness is an unexpected visit with a friend.
Happiness is having friends.
Happiness is seeing a movie you don’t remember seeing the first time.
Happiness is free coffee at McDonald’s.
Happiness is knowing all the questions on Jeopardy!
Happiness is finding the lowest gas
price in town. Happiness is a full tank. Happiness is the last car payment. Happiness is bringing a smile to someone.
Happiness is a purring cat.
Happiness is seeing clearly again after cataract surgery.
Happiness is bingo. Happiness is winning at bingo.
Happiness is duplicate bridge.
Happiness is accumulating master points at duplicate bridge. Happiness is classic movies on television.
Happiness is a warm, fluffy bathrobe on cold mornings.
Happiness is bumping into an old friend and remembering their name.
Happiness is not needing Google to remember something.
Happiness is finding something you lost.
Happiness is remembering why you walked into a room.
Happiness is the early morning smell of fresh coffee.
Happiness is losing that last five pounds and fitting into slim jeans.
Happiness is laughing so hard you can’t stop.
Happiness is homemade soup, summer tomatoes and corn muffins.
Happiness (for a Southerner) is fried chicken.
Happiness is a good physical checkup after eating fried chicken.
Happiness (for a Southerner) is sweet tea.
Happiness is Medicare.
Happiness is old photos.
Happiness is being computer literate. Happiness is receiving email but not too much of it.
Happiness is getting snail mail from someone you thought was dead.
Happiness is soaking in a big bathtub. Happiness is loving someone and feeling loved in return. ■
Dear Ms. Kitty: I had to downsize and move to an apartment. My cat Sam is used to a lot more room to hang out and play in. How can I keep her entertained in the new smaller space? Signed, Cozy in Colorado Springs
Dear Cozy: You’re not alone! Many seniors choose to downsize. Smaller spaces simplify your life, but they can be a big change for you and your kitty. Territory is important to all cats, but if Sam’s basic needs are met, she should adapt right along with you.
1. Set up a play station. Cats underfoot can be a danger to people as well as the kitties, so I recommend finding a quiet corner by a window that Sam can call her own. You can set it up with a favorite rug, scratcher, a sealed treat container and basket of toys. With all her favorite things in one place, she will be able to scent appropriately, own the space and feel safe.
2. Think small. Most cats’ favorite toys are those that you’re on the other end of because movement triggers their hunting instincts. The more you can help Sam mimic the natural flow of hunting, the more satisfied she will be. The company Go Cat makes a short wand toy called Cat Dancer that will keep her active. It has a mouse-like end on a swivel. This helps the toy move erratically, just like real prey would. A note of caution: Please put away any wand or string toys after playing so Sam doesn’t accidentally get tangled in them when you’re not there. This will also keep the toys fresh and novel for her.
3. Use laser toys. The red dot can be a great way to exercise a cat in
a small space. Try to imitate the movement of an insect with irregular paths that lead away from Sam, hiding behind things and up walls. The most important consideration with laser toys is to finish the hunting sequence with a small protein treat, just as cats would in the wild. Stopping suddenly without offering food can be frustrating.
4. Automatic toys. Motion toys that Sam can activate when you’re not there are great choices. SmartyKat Hot Pursuit is a moving toy hidden under a sturdy nylon cover. This is a fancy version of playing with a stick under a rug, which almost all cats enjoy. Other auto toys include mice that move erratically and fish that swim. Look for toys that look—and feel—like the prey they are imitating.
5. Puzzle feeders. You can combine toys with puzzle feeders for a hunting-eating combo. Place a few dry treats in the feeder, then layer them with small toys like fake mice and soft balls. This will encourage Sam to dig through the toys to get to the food, combining two favorite activities and making her work for it like she would in the wild.
6. Catification. If you can’t go out to increase a cat’s territory, go up. Cat trees are perfect for this. If you can, install Catification shelves (with rails, especially if Sam is a senior too) to enrich her movement around the room. Placing shelves within jumping distance of cat trees can create a whole new kitty adventure trail. You can also use them in your play. Make the toy travel up and down the different heights, hiding it behind posts and inside cubbies. ■
This free helpline is offered by Happy Cats Haven and Colorado Cats Boarding. Submit questions at HappyCatsHaven.org
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Our greatest reward is serving Colorado Springs families with expert, compassionate care at reasonable prices. Planning ahead gives you peace of mind knowing your family won’t have additional stress and expense. Our preplanning specialists offer prepaid plans to meet every need and budget.
Avalid passport is your ticket to visit two fabulous places for the price of one. Toronto, Canada, is a wonderful city, often touted as being just like New York but brilliantly managed by the Swiss. A visit to Toronto is also the perfect opportunity to make the trip to glorious Niagara Falls.
Getting to Toronto is easy enough. Major cities offer nonstop flights and interstate highways in the Midwest and New England provide easy access. The best time to visit is late spring or early fall, but avoid going around the Toronto International Film Festival (September 7-17 this year) as hotels are fully booked and room prices are as high as the city’s famous CN Tower.
Speaking of money, Canadian ATMs and merchants accept
conventional U.S. credit and debit cards.
The optimum place to stay is in the downtown Lakeshore area. From there, it’s easy to get around Toronto on foot, via trolley, on the subway or aboard the big red tour buses that continually travel a loop around town. Even if you drive to Toronto, it’s best to park your car and use these public forms of transportation because it’s hard to drive or park amongst all the city’s busy construction. High-rise condos are being constructed everywhere downtown to accommodate the swelling population.
The big challenge to dining in Toronto is selecting a place to eat. There’s such a wide variety of ethnic cuisine. Choices abound, including clusters of fast food joints throughout the 19-mile PATH shopping area and underground subway.
Toronto has plenty of worldclass sightseeing activities. The CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and the Steam Whistle Brewery are located together, along with nearby harbor tour boats. The Art Gallery of Ontario is extremely impressive. The old Distillery District is a car-free zone that has industrial character. Nearby St. Lawrence Market is an expansive indoor food bazaar with
THE BIG CHALLENGE TO DINING IN TORONTO IS SELECTING A PLACE TO EAT. THERE’S SUCH A WIDE VARIETY OF ETHNIC CUISINE.
many specialty shops that offer lunch fare. Kensington Market is populated with colorful clothing boutiques and artisan shops.
At some point during your visit, you’ll want to take a day trip to Niagara Falls. Make a tour reservation for a date that’s early in your stay so that there’s flexibility to reschedule in the event of foul weather.
Plan an organized tour bus excursion, preferably one that offers the Sheraton Centre lunch buffet. It’s a two-hour trip out to Niagara, but it’s a comfortable ride if your bus is equipped with a restroom.
Niagara Falls is a breathtaking sight, and getting close to the falls
via one of the huge boats is a real thrill! You’ll also enjoy many floral panoramas in the surrounding area, mostly created by alumni of a nearby horticulture university. Leaving Toronto will be the toughest part of your visit. Although full of melancholy thoughts, you’ll need to have a response ready when your taxi driver or Uber asks which terminal you’re departing from at the international airport. Be sure to arrive early, and don’t forget to exchange leftover
The CF Toronto Eaton Centre, North America’s busiest shopping mall, is just one part of the PATH underground pedestrian network.
A tour boat ride offers tourists an up close, memorable view of Niagara Falls.
Canadian dollars for U.S. currency. My wife and I truly enjoyed our combined Toronto and Niagara vacation. Everyone was so nice to us and we felt safe everywhere we went. I’m pleased to report that
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located southeast of the CN Tower and is home to over 20,000 exotic sea and freshwater specimens from more than 450 species.
after 47 years of marriage my wife gave me a big hug instead of a hard shove as we were standing at the top of Niagara Falls. We’re a perfect pair, just like Toronto and Niagara.
Art Gallery of Ontario: AGO.ca | 1-877-225-4246
Niagara Falls:
| 716-278-1794 CN Tower CNtower.ca | 416-868-6937
Ripley’s Aquarium: RipleyAquariums.com/Canada | 647-351-3474
Steam Whistle Brewery: Roundhouse.SteamWhistle.ca | 416-362-2337
one place you can ALWAYS find the BEACON, and that’s at any one of our local Safeway stores.
We want to say a big “THANK YOU” to these Safeway stores for their commitment to our seniors. And please, the next time you’re in Safeway tell them…
“Thank you for making a space for the Beacon!”
The Distillery District: TheDistilleryDistrict.com | 416-364-1177
St. Lawrence Market: StLawrenceMarket.com | 416-392-7219
Kensington Market: Kensington-Market.ca
2 Timothy 4:17b-18: “And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.”
“The lion’s mouth” is probably less a reference to the later Roman practice of feeding Christians to the lions and more an allusion to the words of Psalm 22: “Rescue me from the mouths of the lions.”
It was a colorful way of saying, “I am not dead yet. My execution has been delayed.” But it was only a matter of time.
Still, Paul understood that even in his death the Lord would rescue him from every evil attack and bring him safely to his heavenly kingdom.
For isn’t death the ultimate deliverance? Martin Luther once warned people not to lose their proper respect for death: “I am not pleased with examples which show how men die gladly. But I am pleased with those who tremble and quake and grow pale before death and yet suffer it. Great saints do not die gladly. Fear is natural because death is punishment. Therefore it is sad.”
But the Savior who never leaves us alone went through death for
us to absorb all its punishment. Death’s stinger has been plucked. Jesus’ return to life means that when we go through death, he will be there with us, too. Now life is waiting for us on the other side. The death that looked like danger ends in heaven’s safety.
You see, Paul felt deserted at his first hearing, but the Lord stood by him. Soon, however, his trial would not go so well. The judge would condemn him. The officers of the court would lead him away. The executioner’s sword would swing. His head and body would be separated.
At that very moment the Lord would open an escape hatch between his world and ours.
As Paul stepped through that door, he would see that he was not alone. The great cloud of witnesses who surround us, watching us from heaven, would welcome him (Hebrews 12:1). He would see the face of the Lamb who sits on the throne—the Lamb who would spread his tent over him (Revelation 22:4 and 7:15). Paul would be truly safe.
Dear friends, we never face danger alone. Here, the Lord stands by our side. After we die, we will stand at his side, safe at home. ■
Nourish your faith in between Sundays by reading more of John’s writings at BitsOfBread.org.
Thismonth’s tech column has been fortified with organic nutrients that detoxify and enhance vitality with locally sourced and natural extracts that were third-party tested in an independent lab.
Marketers love a good non-descript, non-verifiable buzzword that builds trust in a brand or product. The tech industry hasn’t had a major buzzword bleed into the mainstream vernacular since the early 2000s, when everything under the sun was marketed as high definition, or “HD.” These initials were attached to products like sunglasses, awnings, TVs and radios to make them sound innovative and hightech, even though it took at least 10 years for consortiums to determine what qualified as a higher definition than the regular definition.
Over the past 10 years, the industry has unsuccessfully attempted to push other profitable tech terms, such as 3D, VR, the cloud and the Metaverse. But those terms didn’t permeate into consumer culture enough.
differentiates programmed behavior from independent behavior. This is largely because science can’t even define where that threshold exists for humans, let alone machines. Nature versus nurture becomes even more complex when those terms both refer to synthetic “life.”
I took a basic computer programming class in high school. The teacher recited a mantra that used to be common among computer geeks: “Computers are stupid— they can’t think for themselves. Computers can only do what we tell them to do.”
This mantra is still technically true. But the scope of what we can tell the computer to do has become broader than anyone other than science fiction authors ever anticipated.
’70s. It proposes we form our value system and behavior based on our attention to ourselves. Psychology, like most theoretical disciplines, is largely comprised of codifying common sense and publishing journal
self-aware, not merely intelligent. AI is more comparable to Joshua, the supercomputer in the 1983 film, “WarGames.”
Cyberethics is a growing discipline because there aren’t any agreed-upon standards for concepts such as feeling, pain, joy, guilt, etc.
In 2023, the industry has finally managed to move a word from the parlance of tech into the ubiquitous marketing realm. Although we’re only six months in, 2023 is the year of AI.
Artificial intelligence (AI), by practical definition, is intelligence that is synthetic or not organic. Pop culture likes to throw around the word “sentient” or “self-aware,” but these terms are not synonymous with intelligence, artificial or otherwise.
Sentient means capable of perceiving, specifically feelings such as pain, comfort or preference. Plants are arguably sentient. Computers are not.
Self-aware is a psychology theory that originated in the early
articles or books that add more jargon to a given field’s lexicon. Computers are not self-aware. Biologists, physiologists, chemists and psychologists all study and publish how the human body is essentially an electrical and chemical machine. Academically and scientifically, humans are being defined more as complex machines.
If life is defined through chemical and mechanical processes and properties, there could foreseeably come a day when ethicists and scientists argue that machines deserve protection and consideration, depending on how science, the law and theorists define concepts like feelings or sense of self.
Movies like “Short Circuit,” “2001” and “Terminator” are all fictional examples of machines evolving and becoming sentient and
It is universally accepted that we have achieved the creation of artificial intelligence. But AI is simpler and more attainable than sentience or self-awareness.
Computers have always had three primary functions: calculating, organizing and storing any information entered in by a user. In the era of AI, computers can also learn and make independent, value-based decisions based on the user’s entered data.
But there is no standard threshold that science or technology experts have defined as the factor that
BY ADAM COCHRAN
Revisiting the film “WarGames,” the traditional concept of AI has referred to man-made technology acquiring the ability to learn and independently act, not just remember, calculate and organize. Modern technology has achieved artificial intelligence by adding a new level of computing called machine learning. By combining machine learning with the computing power of the internet, a computer’s limitation of only being able to do what we tell it to do evolves into a computer being able to do whatever it can learn to do by gathering, comparing, combining and arranging data according to any instructions we give it.
In next month’s Talking Digital column, I will discuss the basics of how modern AI technology works, its beneficial uses, how to experiment with it and how it may actually help human civilization improve as society strives to defend the values of humanity and differentiate human innovation, creativity and conscience over machine intelligence. ■
IN THE ERA OF AI, COMPUTERS CAN LEARN AND MAKE INDEPENDENT, VALUE-BASED DECISIONS BASED ON THE USER’S ENTERED DATA.
He awakens, not sure what day it is. Is it January or July? Listens to songs on the radio. His life goes marching by.
When it was time for fireworks, he couldn’t recall the day that those colored flares and very loud sounds meant mortars were on the way. Moving slowly with his walker now, he doesn’t miss holiday picnics. He sits outside alone in his chair, hoping for someone to visit.
On Memorial Day two months ago he went downtown to the parade. He insisted on bringing that little flag as he sat by in the wheelchair and waved. Oh, he could have gone along with them—his brothers in war long ago, but he chose to stay on the sidelines, watched them, and bowed his head low. And now it is the Fourth of July, and on the mirror in the car he can’t drive, the yellow and green poppy reminds him that he is alive. The tremor in his hand shakes the pen and keeps him from writing his name. The vision that blurs keeps him from reading. Every day seems to be the same.
Sometimes he’ll speak to the “Big Boy,” forgetting the name of our son who helps him get to the chair and back when he can’t take more of the sun.
To think that once he was able to fight in 120 degrees and endure the orange mist that fell from skies as he helped cut out LZs. He didn’t hesitate to run out on the field while bullets whizzed past his head. They called him “Doc” as he ran to them and tried his best to keep them all from dead.
His family struggles from day to day, existing on God’s grace. Now he’s 47 years old and can’t even own his own place.
It seems he’s at the mercy of a system that doesn’t care. One day he remarked that he didn’t have to wait when they sent him over there.
He said there was no waiting then—when they needed him, he went. Off to “sunshine country” far away where there his youth was spent.
He asks to see the paper, says it will help if he gets employed. Then he can get us the car we need, the kids’ shoes, the rent, some toys. I ever so gently remind him, he’s not able to work just yet. When he gets his miracle, that favorite job he’ll get.
Then I untie his shoes at the end of the day and call the kids to his side. “Say goodnight to Daddy,” I say, with tears in my eyes. I tuck him in, turn off the clock. The hour is only eight. Then I take a deep sigh, put his radio on and again it proclaims the date. The fourth of July, 1996—fireworks haven’t started yet.
I kiss his cheek and stroke his brow…“Good night, I love you, my vet.”
In memoriam: Philip J. Hansen, First Car, 8th Engineers, Vietnam 1968-1969 ■
Editor’s note: To all who have served our country and ensured our freedom: thank you! To our readers: Have a safe and jubilant Independence Day ! See
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July 1
“Pericles”
Free-For-All brings Shakespeare’s “Pericles” to the East Library’s George Fellows Park. This fast-paced journey of heroes, villains, shipwrecks, pirates, jousting and more is a sweeping adventure that was Shakespeare’s most popular play for over 100 years!
10:30 -11:45 a.m. | 5550 N. Union Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 1
Falcon Freedom Days
Check out local businesses, bounce houses, a DJ, food and more! This year’s bigger and better location is the parking lot of Falcon High School. Fireworks launch at 9:20 p.m.
1-4 p.m. | 10255 Lambert Road, Peyton | Free | meridianservice.org | 719-495-7119
Pikes Peak Pastel Society Exhibit
You might be surprised at the vibrant color, velvety texture and painterly effect pastels produce! This exhibit at the Commonwheel Gallery in Manitou Springs includes portraits, landscapes and still lifes deftly rendered by members.
10 a.m.-6 p.m. | 102 Cañon Ave, Manitou Springs | Free | pikes peakpastel.org | 719-338-5548
| $20 | buttetheater.com | 719-689-6402
July 3
Free Law Clinic
Speak with an attorney at no cost over Zoom at the Fountain Library. Registration is required.
3:30-5 p.m. | 230 S. Main St., Fountain | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 3 & 15
Genealogy Basics (Virtual)
Learn strategies, including getting started, organizing research and searching for records. Registration is required.
10 a.m. Monday & 2 p.m. Saturday | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 5
Symphony Above the Clouds Concert
Bring a picnic or purchase concessions at Woodland Park Middle School while the town’s Wind Symphony serenades you with patriotic music. The grand finale features Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with cannons booming and a drone light show!
5-8 p.m. | 600 E. Kelley’s Road, Woodland Park | Free | symphony abovetheclouds.org
July 6
Summer Afternoon Art
Take a budding artist aged 3-12 to the Fountain Library, where they can use found objects to create a collage masterpiece like Walter Wick’s, illustrator of the popular “I Spy” series, and even write their own clues!
2-3 p.m. | 230 S. Main St., Fountain | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 7
Patriotism in America—Past and Present
July 1-30
“We Will Rock You”
Fans of Queen, rhapsodize at the Butte Theatre in Cripple Creek! This musical is set in a dystopian future that shuns individuality—until Bohemians find freedom of thought, fashion and music. See website for dates and times.
139 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek
Palmer Lake Fun Run
Run or walk four miles on the Fourth, from Palmer Lake to Monument via the Santa Fe Trail! In-person or virtual options are available. Proceeds go to Palmer Lake Elementary.
7-9 a.m. | Palmer Lake | $35-$45 | runsignup.com
Tri-Lakes 4th of July Celebration
Celebrate the 4th up north, from a pancake breakfast in the morning to a beer garden and live music through late afternoon. Watch the Kiwanis parade, eat festival food and check out local art too! See website for times and locations.
7 a.m.-5 p.m. | townofmonument. org | 719-481-2954
Wood Avenue Parade
Come to the Old North End’s flaglined parade route for the annual children’s parade! See historic homes, decorated strollers and bikes and costumed kids. Bike decorating happens on the 3rd, 4-6 p.m. at the Steele Elementary gazebo, 1720 N. Weber St. 9-11 a.m. | 2050 Wood Ave. | Free | oldnorthend.org
Old-Fashioned 4th of July
9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 200 N. Park St., Woodland Park | Free | wpmain street.org | 719-233-9902
Family Fourth at Rock Ledge Ranch
Catch costumed characters reenact a Revolutionary War encampment, where Honest Abe reads the famous Gettysburg Address while General William Jackson Palmer and Teddy Roosevelt discuss historical events. There’s also a Declaration of Independence reading, patriotic music and carnival games. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | 3105 Gateway Road | $8 ($5 for 65+ seniors) | rockledgeranch.com | 719-5786777
4th of July Picnic
Get ready for grilled goodness! Hamburgers, hot dogs, brats and all the trimmings await you, courtesy of Cheyenne Mountain VFW Post 3917.
12-3 p.m. | 4715 Clear View Drive | $7 | vfwpost3917.org | 719-392-8677
Local author Becky Van Vleet discusses and signs copies of her book “Unintended Hero,” about her father’s battles on the USS Denver in World War II, at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum. Please preregister.
6 p.m. | 517 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs | Free | manitousprings heritagecenter.org | 719-685-1454
Celebrate in Woodland Park with live patriotic music, a beer garden, food, yoga, a kids’ fishing derby, 3-on-3 basketball, beginner’s self-defense, face painting, giveaways, caricatures by “Cartoon Bill,” the Gold Canyon Gunfighters show and a watermelon-eating contest!
Cripple Creek calls! There are donkeys, family fun activities, live music, food vendors and more. End the day with an epic fireworks display synced to music at 9:30 p.m.
12-10 p.m. | 264 Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek | Free | visitcripplecreek.com | 719-689-3461
Star Spangled Symphony and Block Party
Join this all-American celebration! Enjoy the Philharmonic’s patriotic concert inside or broadcast outside, with food vendors, a beer garden, games, face painting, balloon animals and more.
3:30-7 p.m. (concert at 4:30 p.m.) | 190 S. Cascade St. | Free | COS4thofjuly.org | 719-634-7333
Check the night skies all around you for these pyrotechnic displays: Banning Lewis Ranch (open to the public), The Club at Flying Horse, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (ticketed event), The Country Club of Colorado at Cheyenne Mountain Resort (resort guests and members only), Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, Patty Jewett Golf Course, Rocky Mountain Vibes (ticketed event) and Valley High Golf Course. Enjoy the Colorado Springs Philharmonic patriotic concert simultaneously by tuning your radio to FM stations 88.7, 92.9, 96.9 and 106.3 or 740 AM starting at 9 p.m.
Approximately 9:15 p.m. | Free | COS4thofjuly.org | 719-634-7333
July 7
Spinphony
These four ladies bring their stringed instruments to Stargazers, but don’t be fooled—they can rock out! Their style is a mashup of classical, rock and a few genres in between with choreography too!
7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $20 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 7
Big Head Todd and the Monsters & Blues Traveler
Catch these “Big Head” Coloradans when they rock the World Arena with hits like “All the Love You Need.” It’s a twofer: Blues Traveler brings their improvisational live show and Top 40 singles like “RunAround,” “Hook” and “But Anyway.”
7:30-10:30 p.m. | 3185 Venetucci Blvd. | $66-$106 | broadmoor worldarena.com | 719-477-2100
July 8
Rocky Mountain PBS Kids Fest
Daniel Tiger waits to meet your grandchild at Panorama Park! Enjoy food trucks, create art, learn about gardening, play musical chairs, paint your face, throw a bean bag, experience different cultures, take home free books and more.
10 a.m.-1 p.m. | 4540 Fenton Road | Free | rmpbs.org | 303-892-6666
July 8
Red Mountain Boys
Take the Boys’ instrumental prowess, add in four-part harmony, season with world-class songwriting and bam! It’s a recipe for powerful, hard-driving bluegrass music, live at Stargazers!
7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $15 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 9
A Scenic View
Take in a performance featuring the most amazing instrument of all: the human voice, at the Vocal Arts Festival’s scenes program at Packard Hall!
3 p.m. | 5 W. Cache La Poudre St. |
The Great Outdoors & AdAmAn Alley
This ¾-mile downtown walking tour with a Pioneers Museum guide examines the community’s relationship with the environment. See the newly completed AdAmAn Alley honoring the igniters of New Year’s fireworks on Pikes Peak since 1922. Walks continue through September.
10-11:30 a.m. | 115 E. Pikes Peak Ave. | $5 | give.cspm.org/history stroll | 719-385-5633
$20 | operatheatreoftherockies.org | 719-570-1950
July 9 & 13
Front Range Big Band Outdoor Concerts
This 17-piece local band celebrates its 45th year together with free concerts in the park. July 9 is at Soda Springs Park, 1016 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs (rain or shine under the covered pavilion) and July 13 in Bancroft Park, 2408 W. Colorado Ave.
6:30 p.m. Sunday, 6 p.m. Thursday | Free | 719-494-3746
July 10
CarFit
Check how well your vehicle fits you with this program’s 12-point checklist of your steering wheel, headrests, seat belts and more. An occupational therapist will help you drive safer longer. When you register, you’ll be assigned a one-on-one, 40-minute appointment.
12:30-3:30 p.m. | 2420 E. Pikes Peak Ave. | Free | uchealth.org | 719-365-8061
Calendar continued on next spread...
Buy local at these markets on Wednesday-Sunday, where the admission is free and the produce is fresh. There’s homemade food, handmade art and hundreds of deals, steals and treasures.
Colorado Farm & Art Market at the Indy
3-7 p.m. | Wednesdays | 235 S. Nevada Ave.
Briargate
9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Wednesdays | 7610 N. Union Blvd.
Banning Lewis Ranch
3-7 p.m. | Thursdays | 8833 Vista Del Pico Blvd.
Woodland Park
8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Fridays | Henrietta Ave. & Center St., Woodland Park
Monument Hill
8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Saturdays | 66 Jefferson St., Monument
Black Forest Backyard Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Saturdays | 6845 Shoup Road
Colorado Farm & Art Market at The Margarita
9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Saturdays | 7350 Pine Creek Road
Old Colorado City
7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Saturdays | 24th St. alongside Bancroft Park
Fountain
8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Saturdays | 618 E. Ohio Ave., Fountain
Ridgeline
10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Sundays | 11631 Ridgeline Drive
Cordera
10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Sundays | 11894 Grandlawn Circle
July 11
Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Giddyap to the Norris Penrose Event Center, where contestants vie for championships in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping and more. Arrive early for family-friendly attractions, food and Western shopping—and stay afterward for live music and dancing. See website for times.
1045 Lower Gold Camp Road | $25-$55 | pikespeakorbust.org | 719-635-8881
July 11
Detox 101
of the Springs and Opera Theatre of the Rockies at Colorado College’s Armstrong Hall.
7 p.m. | 14 E. Cache La Poudre St. | $30 | operatheatreoftherockies.org | 719-570-1950
July 14
The Doctor Fine Rhythm & Blues Revue
It’s a dance party with oldies you won’t want to miss at Stargazers! Groove to plenty of great ’50s, ’60s and ’70s soul music: Motown, Stax, Muscle Shoals, Philadelphia and more!
7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $15 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 18
Paul Cauthen
When Cauthen takes the Pikes Peak Center Stage with “Willie’s phrasing and Waylon’s baritone,” you’ll hear a sound all his own. He was a fire-breathing truth-teller with the acclaimed roots rock band Sons of Fathers before going solo.
8-11 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $35-$60 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100
July 20
Mitch McVicker
9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 1626 S. Tejon St. | $10 | ivywildcos@gmail.com
July 22
Outdoor Craft & Gift Festival
Get some fresh air, bring your loved ones and come to the Masonic Center for live music, food trucks and 50+ local handmade vendors.
9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1150 Panorama Drive | Free | sonshineshows.com | 719-632-8994
July 27
Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop
Should you detox? If so, how? Come to Library 21c to discover how an effective detox addresses your exposure to toxins and supports your body’s daily detox functions. Registration is required.
July 15
BUS Band
2 p.m. | 1175 Chapel Hills Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 12
Pump up the Flavor: Spices & Herbs
Connect with area resources and learn tips for aging safely in free workshops and information sessions at the Antlers Hotel. Enjoy complimentary snacks, visit with more than 80 local service providers and receive free promotional items. Use the parking garage or call 719-884-2380 to schedule a ride in advance.
“Healthy” and “bland” don’t need to be synonymous. Learn how to add spices and herbs as you cook a meal together. Achieve delicious flavor without extra sodium for hearthealthy meals.
Nobody sings harmony like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, but these guys come close! Will they sing “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” “Southern Cross,” “Our House” or another fave? Come to Stargazers and find out!
7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $18 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 16
Goat Yoga
Catch this concert at Covenant Presbyterian Church—it’s Mark Twain meets MacGyver! McVicker’s inventive approach includes insightful song lyrics, quirky “instruments” like toys and profound storytelling. He cowrote “My Deliverer” with his friend Rich Mullins.
7 p.m. | 2845 Parliament Drive | Free | covenant-pres.org | 719-598-0800
July 21
Alastair Greene
This masterful blues rocker just released “Alive in the New World” and plays at Stargazers! He’s toured with the Alan Parsons Project and is a multi-charting Top 10 Billboard artist.
Let’s keep the Springs’ outdoor playground pristine! Join a city park ranger for this fun and interactive workshop at Pinion Valley Park on outdoor skills and ethics, minimizing our impact and enjoying the outdoors responsibly. Registration is required.
10:45 a.m. | 5585 Mule Deer Drive | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 27
Taste of Pikes Peak
8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. | 4 S. Cascade Ave. | Free | silverkey.org | 719-884-2300
4-6 p.m. | 12 North Meade Ave. | $25 | uchealth.org | 719-365-8061
July 13
Paleontology in the Pikes Peak Region
Colorado is a paleontological wonderland! Come learn about the diverse prehistoric landscapes, ecosystems and wildlife in this 2.5-mile guided hike in Red Rock Canyon. Registration is required.
9 a.m. | 3550 W. High St. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 14
Opera and social justice converge in the stories of six people wrongfully convicted, then freed by the Ohio Innocence Project. Hear this collaboration of the Chamber Orchestra
Perfect your downward-facing goat and love on these cuddly creatures at Goat Patch Brewing Company! Each of three time slots includes a 45-minute lesson followed by a 15-minute decompression with photo opps galore.
8 a.m.-1 p.m. | 2727 N. Cascade Ave. #123 | Call for pricing | goatpatch brewing.com | 719-471-4628
July 18
Senior Day at the Fair
Enjoy games, contests, music and splurge-worthy fair food at the El Paso County Fair. On Senior Day, adults 55 and older can join the fun for a reduced $3 entrance fee and two special free events: brunch at 11 a.m. and pie at 3 p.m. in Swink Hall. All other days, it’s $6 for a senior day pass or $17 for a season pass. See website for full event schedule. Various times | 366 10th St., Calhan | $3 | elpasocountyfair.com | 719-520-7880
7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $15 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 21-23
Vintage Market Days
Shop this upscale vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market at the Norris Penrose Event Center featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and more.
10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road | $7-15 | vintagemarket days.com | 719-635-1101
July 22
IGATE
Go to the Millibo Art Theatre and grab a map! The Ivywild Garden Art Toure (IGATE) is back, with a knight confronting a dragon, goats bleating greetings and a raven standing sentry over a secret workshop.
Hey, foodies! Follow the aromas to Park Union downtown, in front of the Olympic & Paralympic Museum, where unlimited samples of sumptuous tastes from 60+ local restaurants and breweries await! Includes a concert by local favorites the SofaKillers.
6-9 p.m. | 200 S. Sierra Madre | $60 | tasteofpikespeak.com
July 27
Paleo Cooking Workshop
Achieve wellness through nutrition that helps manage inflammation for those with an autoimmune disorder. Please RSVP by July 6 at wellness@ lifewithoutlupus.life with your full name, telephone and number attending, and to learn the location.
11 a.m. | Free | lifewithoutlupus.life | 719-380-8330
July 28
1864 rules! See America’s Pastime as it was played in the Colorado Territory over 150 years ago. It’s the Colorado Vintage Baseball Association vs. the Manitou Springers at Roger Maestas Field.
11:05 a.m. | 60 Beckers Lane, Manitou Springs | Free | manitousprings heritagecenter.org | 719-685-1454
July 29
Life-size Games
El Loco Fandango
These three ZZ Top aficionados rock the beards, but they rock musically too, with renditions of “Gimmee All Your Lovin,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and other hits. See them live at Stargazers. 7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $15 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200
July 28-29
Bronc Day
Green Mountain Falls has got it going on! There’s a barn dance, pancake breakfast, vendor booths, food, live music, mobile earth and space observatory, free swimming, bounce house and water slide, a magician, face painting and a parade.
7-9 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday | 6970 Lake St., Green Mountain Falls | Free | broncdayfestival.org | broncday@gmail.com
July 29
Cat Fest
Fancy felines? You’re the purr-fect purr-son for this Colorado Springs Event Center gathering with a cat video café, the Mystical Egyptian Cat Oasis, a memory wall, creation station cat crafts, the Hiss-tory of Cats, Cattitude game and adoptions.
10 a.m. | 3960 Palmer Park Blvd. | $20 | catfestco.com
July 29
Vintage Baseball Game
Come cheer or have a good laugh over a vintage baseball game using
Bring the whole family to the Ruth Holley Library and play games with a giant twist! Choose from life-size Candyland, Battleship and Clue. Team up by age or mix it up intergenerationally.
2-5 p.m. | 685 N. Murray Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333
July 29
Rocky Mountain Flower Fest
Feast your senses on a music festival with a farm full of flowers! Hear bands, snap photos and enjoy food trucks, whiskey tasting, an artisan market, line dancing and more at the historic Venetucci Farm.
2-6 p.m. | 5210 S. U.S. Highway 8587 | $25-$50 | gathermountain blooms.com | 719-322-1750
July 29
Los Lonely Boys
Bring on the bluesy Texican rock ‘n roll! The Boys bring their Brotherhood Tour to the Pikes Peak Center. Their number-one single, “Heaven,” earned them a Grammy. They’ve toured with The Who and recorded with Carlos Santana.
7:30-10:30 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $46-$86 | loslonelyboys.com | 719-477-2100
July 29-30
Pikes Peak Whittler Show
It’s amazing what emerges from a block of wood by a capable whittler! This event is also a sale and competition, so you may purchase a carved masterpiece or enter one you’ve created at The Shrine Club in Old Colorado City.
10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 6 South 33rd St. | $4 | pikespeakwhittlers.com | goodwood@comcast.net ■
The musical told through the timeless music of QUEEN tells the story of a group of Bohemians who struggle to restore the free exchange of thought, fashion and live music in the distant future where everyone dresses, thinks and acts the same.
by John Glore |
by Chris Medina & Jackson Hurford-Reynolds
This is a collection of twisted, humorous parodies of famous children’s stories and fairy tales, such as “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Ugly Duckling” and “The Gingerbread Man.”
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21st Century Toastmasters meets weekly at Library 21c.
Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-591-8045
ACC Grass Roots 307 Cribbage meets at the Colorado Springs Elks Lodge.
Wednesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 719-3311200
ACLU defends civil rights and liberties. Call for details. 303-777-5482
Austin Bluffs Sertoma, a community service organization, meets twice monthly for breakfast at Embassy Suites.
2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 7:30 a.m. |
719-460-5561
Austrian-American Enzian Club is a German-speaking culture club that meets at VFW Post #101.
2nd Wednesday | 2-4 p.m. |
719-380-1163
Black Forest AARP meets for a potluck at Black Forest Lutheran Church.
2nd Wednesday | 12 p.m. |
719-596-6787
Black Forest Trails Association meetings are open to the public at Black Forest Community Club.
2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | black foresttrails.org
Blazer Ski Club meets year round with organized ski trips, golf, hiking and more.
Wednesdays | blazerskiclub.org
Breakfast Club for Singles 50+ meets for breakfast at the Elks Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Cost is $22 (cash or check). Must RSVP.
1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-260-0651 | tbc50plus.org
Bridge Players Duplicate plays daily at the Bridge Center. Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m. | Tuesdays at 9 a.m. | Saturdays at 6 p.m. | 719-634-7250
Broadmoor Rotary Club meets for lunch with a speaker at DoubleTree by Hilton. Please RSVP.
1st and 3rd Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 740-707-3022 | rotarybroadmoor. com
Bulldog Club meets monthly at Westside Community Center.
4th Monday | 6-8 p.m. | chloed howard@yahoo.com
Carnelian Coffee Book Club meets at Carnelian Coffee.
1st Sunday | 1 p.m. | jpaisley@ppld.org
Chess Club meets weekly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center. Fridays | 12-2 p.m. | 719-648-1481
Cheyenne Mountain Hooked on Crochet meets virtually to crochet or knit.
1st & 3rd Thursdays | 10 a.m. | PPLD.org | 719-389-8968
Cheyenne Mountain Newcomers Club for women will not resume meeting until September. cmncos.org
Colorado Springs Chess Club meets at Acacia Apartments ballroom.
Tuesdays | 6 p.m.
Colorado Springs Coin Club meets at Fraternal Order of Eagles #143.
4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-632-4260
Colorado Springs Cribbage Club #307 meets weekly at the Elk’s Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Arrive early to meet other players. Wednesdays | 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society, active since 1936, meets monthly at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Use the employee entrance in the back.
3rd Thursday | 7-9 p.m. | csms1936. com
Colorado Springs Numismatic Society meets at Gold Hill Police Station’s community room.
2nd Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-632-4260
Colorado Springs Scrabble Club meets virtually for three games on Woogles.io.
Mondays | 5:45-9 p.m. | 719-3325141
Colorado Springs Stamp Club meets at Vista Grande Baptist Church.
1st Tuesday | 7 p.m.
COS Miata Club, for Mazda Miata owners, meets for monthly drives around the Pikes Peak region. meetup.com/cosmiata | 719-6517739
Ford Mustang Club for Mustang owners/enthusiasts meets monthly at Phil Long Ford Motor City.
3rd Saturday | 4:30 p.m. | mustang ers.com
Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship meets for breakfast at IHOP, 6005 Constitution Ave.
2nd Saturday | 7:30 a.m. | 719-2293317
Gleneagle Sertoma, a community service organization, meets for lunch at Beast and Brews, 7 Spectrum Loop.
1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m. | 719-331-1212
Curiosity Unlimited offers continuous learning opportunities with UCCS professor lectures at Ent Center for the Arts, Chapman Foundations Recital Hall. Visitors welcome!
2nd Friday | 10 a.m. | uccs.edu/ curiosity | 719-755-5082
DAV Knob Hill holds a bingo fundraiser at 6880 Palmer Park Blvd. to help aid local veterans. Sundays | 5:30-9 p.m. | 719-591-8787
Evening Adult Fiction Book Club for daytime workers meets at Woodland Park Library.
1st Wednesday | 5 p.m.
Falcon Adult Group meets at High Prairie Library.
1st Wednesday | 11 a.m.
Falcon Garden Club meets at High Prairie Library.
3rd Saturday | 10 a.m. | falcon gardenclub.org
Florissant Bookworms meets monthly at Florissant Library.
2nd Wednesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-748-3939
Falcon Wanderers Volkssport Club meets for regular walks. Membership dues are $10 per person and $16 per couple.
719-597-4307 | falconwanderers.org
Friends at the Table Cooking Club meets at Florissant Library.
3rd Friday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-7483939
Gold Camp Victorian Society meets at Cripple Creek Heritage Center.
4th Saturday | 2 p.m. | info@gold campvictoriansociety.org
Hi-Country Newcomers is a social group open to all women in Colorado Springs. Activities include hiking, book club, games, lunches and tours. Call for membership.
2nd Monday | 10 a.m. | 719-464-7633
International Dance Club hosts weekly dances. Live bands, variety of styles, family friendly. Cost is $12. Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | international danceclub.org | 719-633-0195
Maxi’s Dance Group meets at Eagles Club #143 with music for ages 40+ and food and drinks for purchase. Cover is $5 members, $8 non-members.
Thursdays | 6-9 p.m. | 719-660-1358.
Open Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.
3rd Saturday | 11 a.m. | 719-6879281
Paralyzed Vets of America plays weekly at Bingo World.
Tuesdays | 12 p.m. | 719-578-1441
Pikes Peak Camera Club meets at Living Hope Church, 640 Manitou Blvd.
2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 719-6342376 | pikespeakcameraclub.com
Pikes Peak Computer Application Society meets at Springs Community Church, 7290 Lexington Dr.
1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | asdtitus@ gmail.com
Pikes Peak Genealogical Society meets virtually.
2nd Wednesday | 6 p.m. | ppgs.org
Pikes Peak Over the Hill Gang meets monthly for dinner. This club is for active adults 50+ who enjoy skiing, biking, hiking, golfing, camping, etc. Membership required.
2nd Wednesday | ppothg.com.
Pikes Peak Pastel Society meets at Library 21c. Call for times. 719-338-5548 | pikespeakpastel.org
Pikes Peak Posse of the Westerners meets for dinner and a program at the Masonic Center. Please RSVP.
2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | 719-473-0330
Pikes Peak Water Garden Society meets at Mountain View Church of Christ (April through October).
2nd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 719-6480740 | ppwgs.org
Rampart Range Blue Star Mothers meets at Falcon Police Department.
1st Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-651-8038
Read Amok Book Club meets at Florissant Library.
2nd Monday | 11 a.m. | 719-7483939
Reader’s Circle Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.
2nd Thursday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-6879281
Red Hat Ladies meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.
1st & 3rd Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-6002644
Rotary Club meets weekly for lunch and a speaker at the DoubleTree Hotel. Visit website for Zoom link and to RSVP.
Fridays | 12:15 p.m. | 719-338-3239 | portal.clubrunner.ca/3250
Silicon Mountain Mac User Group meets virtually. Visit website for link.
2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | smmug.org
Sno-Jets Ski & Adventure Club meets at The Public House at The Alexander. See website for ski trips, biking, hiking and other activities.
1st Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | snojets.org
Socrates Cafe meets weekly for discussion at the Monument Library. Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 719-531-6333
Tom Crago
Sons and Daughters of Italy meets for dinner and a meeting at VFW Post #101.
1st Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | 719-210-2025
Sons of Norway meets at Viking Hall.
2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-574-3717
Spanish Conversation Group meets weekly at the East Library. Intermediate-advanced Spanish learners and native speakers discuss a variety of topics.
Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-2445902
Veterans of Korean Service meets at BPOE Elks 304, 3400 N. Nevada Ave. Lunch and speaker are $13. Call to RSVP.
3rd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-2146121
Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1075, meets at Skills Academy, 1575 Garden of the Gods Road.
Last Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-2358162 | vva1075.org
Women’s Army Corps Veterans Association meets at Sand Creek Police Station.
4th Saturday | 10 a.m. | peakwac vets@yahoo.com
Woodland Park Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.
1st Tuesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-687-9281
Yarnia! Knitting & Crochet Club meets at Florissant Library.
2nd Thursday | 10 a.m. | 719-748-3939 ■
“I remember a trip to Canada and camping at Acadia National Park in Maine and the Grand Canyon. With our own kids, we took a five-week road trip through Mexico with my parents and college students—15-20 of us, traveling in two VW vans. It wasn’t touristy at all. We saw Mayan ruins and local markets and stayed in old haciendas.”
Dorothy Bastien“I was a farmer’s daughter and a farmer’s wife, so the only vacation we got was on the pasture field.”
Ed Schrock“When I was young, we’d travel from Kansas to Illinois to visit my grandpa, sometimes by train. As an adult, 17 of us went by train and took a ton and a half of Bibles in suitcases to China, to be used in their house churches. My wife and I also went on an amazing two-week African safari—but I made the mistake of growling at a lion!”
Mary
Brander“Our main vacation was traveling from our small town outside Milwaukee to rural Minnesota, where we visited relatives on their farm filled with interesting old things, like a crank telephone and an antique child-size cast iron kitchenware set in the chicken coop. The men helped prepare my uncle’s machines for the harvest. We spent the time fishing in the creek and talking.”
Boo and hiss when saloon owner The Girl falls for an outlaw in this ode to classic melodrama and Westerns by Funky @ the Butte in Cripple Creek, 139 E. Bennett Ave. Cost is $20. See dates and times at ButteTheater.com or call 719-689-6402.
Consider donating blood or platelets if you have type O negative blood. Type O negative is the universal blood type. Emergency room personnel use it in dire situations when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body and are often given to trauma and surgery patients. Type O blood donors are ideal Power Red donors, which means they can safely donate
two units of red blood cells during one donation. To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800733-2767). A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors should weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health to donate blood.
The fair is a slice of Americana that pays tribute to its agricultural roots. Experience livestock and other animals, auto races, a laser light show, bubble show, butterfly encounter and carnival rides and games. Compete in the Barn Olympics, a poker tournament, cornhole, even a potato decorating contest! As always, enjoy music and splurge-worthy fair food. Senior Day (for adults age 55 and over) is July 18, with a reduced $3 entrance fee and two special free events: brunch at 11 a.m. and pie at 3 p.m. in Swink Hall. All other days, it’s $6 for a senior day pass
Enjoy the warmer weather and take in the music of a variety of artists at this summer’s lineup of outdoor concerts, with free admission unless specified.
Monday:
T Summer Concert Series at Bud Ford Pavilion at Soda Springs Park, 1016 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 7 p.m. (manitousprings.org).
Wednesday:
T Hillside Gardens at 1006 Institute St., 6-8:30 p.m. Admission is $15 and includes a house drink (hillsidecolorado.com).
T Manitou Springs Library Lawn Concert Series at 701 Manitou Ave., 6-7:30 p.m. (ppld.org). Concerts in the Park in Monument’s Limbach Park, 151 Front St., 6:30-8:30 p.m. (townofmonument.org).
Thursday:
T Summer Concert Series at Bud Ford Pavilion at Soda Springs Park, 1016 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 6:30 p.m. (manitousprings.org).
Friday:
T First and Main Town Center Summer Concert Series, 3305 Cinema Point, at 5-7 p.m. (firstandmaintowncenter.com).
T UVC Free Summer Concert Series at 7-9 p.m., in University Village Colorado shopping center’s North Plaza, by Hacienda Colorado and Smashburger (uvcshopping.com).
Sergeant Major Roger Ehrke was presented with the 2022 El Paso County Veteran of the Year award at the recent Military Affairs Council Armed Forces Luncheon. Ehrke’s decorated military career began with the US Army, serving tours in Vietnam and Desert Storm. He served as president of the Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade for 16 years. In 2022, Ehrke stepped up to help families of deceased veterans navigate challenges they face after their loved one’s passing, including accompaning the
or $17 for a season pass. The fair is July 15-22 at the El Paso County Fair and Events Complex, 366 10th St., Calhan. Visit elpasocountyfair. com for a complete schedule of events or call 719-520-7880.
Taming of the Shrew with a twist by Theatreworks
The Shrew you thought you knew gets a matriarchy makeover by Theatreworks! Kate and Petruchio— equals in intellect, impudence and even infatuation—learn to balance identity and belonging, with plenty of sniping, head-butting and comic brilliance along the way. The performance features all the madcap physical comedy and quick-witted word play inherent in Shakespeare’s comedies and begs the question: Who’s really taming whom? The show runs from July 6-30, Wednesday-Sunday at 7 p.m. Friday shows will be performed inside, with the others taking place outside the Ent Center (weather permitting), 5225 N. Nevada Ave. Tickets range in price from $20-$44. Visit entcenter forthearts.org or call 719-255-3232 for more information.
surviving spouse to medical appointments, informing them of military benefits and assisting with household tasks. To learn more about veteran services, visit JusticeServices.ElPasoCo. com.
Green Box Arts Festival celebrates 15 years with largest-ever event
Catch this multi-disciplinary arts fest June 30-July 15, with more than 80 performances, events and classes at the growing and vibrant arts community of Green Mountain Falls. Experience the Paul Taylor Dance Company; the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony; Shakespeare’s “Pericles,” outdoor sculptures; a healing sound journey; the ArtDesk Conversations; swing dancing; Astronomy & S’mores; visible mending workshops; Sommelier 101; silversmithing classes; fiber fusion; Becoming // Poetry for a personalized, spontaneous poetry experience on vintage typewriters; the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra playing a live original score to a silent Buster Keaton film; ArtDesk Pooch Parade; lanternmaking for a spectacular launch and more. The final Block Party on July 15 features food trucks and a concert featuring the homey Ozark sounds of Handmade Moments. See greenboxarts.org for times, tickets and locations. ■
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is for those who desire sobriety to share their experience, strength and hope with each other. Check the website to find a meeting.
Varied times | coloradospringsaa. org
Alzheimer’s Association offers free caregiver support, in person and virtually. Call 24/7 to register. 800-272-3900
Amputee Support Group meets at Encompass Rehab Hospital.
1st Tuesdays | 5-6:30 p.m. | 719-632-5075
Community Reinforcement And Family Training (CRAFT) has support for families and friends of loved ones struggling with substance use at Springs Recovery Connection. English, Spanish, virtual and in-person options are available.
719-377-2161 | aneeley@srchope.org
Daddy’s Little Girls brings hope to abuse survivors through the love of Jesus Christ.
719-649-9054 | daddyslittlegirls.net
Dementia Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.
3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 719600-2644
Depression and Bipolar Support has support for those living with or affected by mood disorders.
719-477-1515 | dbsacolorado springs.org
El Paso County Colorado
Progressive Veterans helps veterans, active duty military and their families with VA health care and disability, homelessness, emergency needs, PTSD and mental health support.
719-488-8351 | epccpv.org | info@epccpv.org
Emotions Anonymous, a program for unsolved emotional problems, meets at First Lutheran Church, 1515 N. Cascade Ave.
Mondays | 6 p.m. | 719-235-1798
Falcon Senior Services meets at Patriot High School in Falcon.
2nd Wednesday | 11 a.m. | 719-494-0353
Gamblers Anonymous meets virtually and in person at the Dwelling Place, 508 N. Tejon St. Virtual: Check coloradoga.org
In-person: Mondays at 6 p.m. | Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren supports those parenting grandkids. Call for details. 719-578-8007
Grief Share helps attendees find healing after losing a loved one.
4th Tuesday | 10 a.m. | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com
Headway Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group meets at Fargo’s Pizza, 2910 E. Platte Ave.
1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. | 719-459-0901
Hearing Loss Association of America meets virtually. hlaacoloradosprings.org
Keeping in Balance with the Life Tree meets weekly at Ambrose Family Health. Sessions are $5. Thursdays | 2-3 p.m. | 719-203-5340
Life Without Lupus Foundation, for those with an autoimmune disorder, meets quarterly, typically at East Library.
4th Thursday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-3808330 | lifewithoutlupus.life
Low-Vision Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.
3rd Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 719-600-2644
Multiple Sclerosis Alliance meets virtually and in-person. Visit website for schedule.
719-633-4603 | msasoco.org
NAMI Support Groups meet virtually and in person at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave. Registration required: 719-4738477, namicoloradosprings.org
• Connection Support Group is for those living with mental health conditions.
Virtual: Tuesdays | 7 p.m.
In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 235
• Family Support Group is for family members of people living with mental health conditions.
Virtual: Wednesdays | 7 p.m.
In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 234
Near Death Experience Group meets to share and talk about this life-changing experience that 1 out of 20 people have had. The meeting place varies, but it’s generally in the 80906 zip code.
confidentiallistening@gmail.com
Overeaters Anonymous meets daily over Zoom (except Sundays) and in person on Thursdays at Peak Vista Community Health Center. In person: Thursdays | 9-10:15 a.m. | 719-205-9080 | oasouthern colorado.org
Parkinson’s Support Group meets at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave. 2nd Saturday | 10 a.m.
PEARLS Connect for people over 60 who feel overwhelmed by life’s issues meets monthly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.
2nd Tuesdays | 3-4:40 p.m. | 719459-2017
Polio Survivors Support Group meets regularly. Call for details. 303-212-0017
Prison Support Group for those with incarcerated loved ones meets weekly in the prayer room at Woodmen Valley Chapel.
Thursdays | 1 p.m. | 602-762-0900
Proactive Living Series meets at the Colorado Springs Senior Center to share tips on aging and resources.
3rd Thursday | 12-2 p.m.
Project Angel Heart delivers free nutritious meals to those living with life-threatening illness.
719-323-0084
Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group meets virtually through The Independence Center.
2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-471-8181
Widowed Persons Grief Support Group meets twice monthly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.
2nd & 4th Fridays | 1-2 p.m. | 719955-3400 ■
variety of styles and materials.
9:30-11:30 a.m. | July 14-Aug. 18 | $53
Combined Oil
All levels of artists and students are welcome to explore the best practices of oils.
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To register for classes, call 719-955-3400 or visit CSSeniorCenter.com
During the renovation, the Senior Center will continue programming at the Downtown YMCA, Westside Community Center, Southeast Armed Services YMCA and the YMCA at First & Main.
DOWNTOWN YMCA
Posture, Balance and Core
Train your body to stand taller and walk with confidence and stability! Includes chair-based and standing work for various fitness levels.
2:45-3:30 p.m. | July 10-Aug. 24 | $35
Breathwork, Meditation & Chair Yoga
Gentle breathing exercises for focus, followed by yoga poses for space and comfort within the body.
10-11 a.m. | July 11-Aug. 22 | $35
Macramé!
Create a beautiful wall hanging.
9:30-11:30 a.m. | July 11 | $16
Thursday Dances
Have fun dancing, and don’t forget to tip the band!
2-3:30 p.m. | July 13 & 27
Zumba Gold
Latin music plus low- and high-intensity cardio moves equal a calorie-burning dance fitness party!
10:30-11:30 a.m. | July 10-Aug. 28 |
$35
SilverSneakers Classic
Strengthen your muscles and increase range of motion.
9-9:45 a.m. | July 11-Aug. 27 | Free for members, $50 non-members
Adventures in Drawing
Drawing is the basis of all 2-D visual art. Learn the techniques and skills to make your work expressive in a
9-11:30 a.m. | July 11-Aug. 8 | $55
Line Dance 1
True beginners and those with limited abilities learn beginning steps.
10-11:30 a.m. | July 14-Aug. 22 | $35
Therapeutic Drumming
Drum away the stress on stability balls while improving coordination, range of motion, rhythm, strength and mental clarity.
1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 11-Aug. 22 | $35
Mat Pilates
Strengthen deep muscles of your abdomen, hips and spine. Improve flexibility, balance and mobility while building bone density.
2:45-3:45 p.m. | July 11-Aug. 22 | $35
SilverSneakers Yoga
Move your body through seated and standing poses to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement.
1-3 p.m. | July 12-Aug. 25 | Free for members, $50 non-members
YMCA AT FIRST & MAIN
Inflammation 101: The Fire Within
Discover the good, the bad and the ugly sides of inflammation.
1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 6 | Free
Nurse Chats
Learn how to keep your immune system boosted and balanced.
1:30-2:30 p.m. | July 12 | Free
Veterans and Medicare
Learn how to optimize your Medicare benefits as a veteran or veteran spouse.
2-3 p.m. | July 13 | Free
TaijiFit in the Park
Experience TaijiFit outdoors at Nancy Lewis Park! It combines the best of traditional tai chi with modern Western fitness.
8:30-9:30 & 9:30-10:30 a.m. | July
11-Aug. 22 | $35
66 Jefferson St.,
To register for classes, call 719-464-6873 or visit SilverKey.org/trilakes
Arts & Crafts
Socialize while you work on a weekly craft project.
11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Thursdays
Circle Talk
Come as strangers, leave as friends through lighthearted conversation. Please RSVP.
Mondays starting July 10 | 10:30 a.m. | 719-884-2300
Connections Café
Enjoy hot, nutritious meals and socialize with others.
11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
Bingo
Play for fun and prizes! Must RSVP.
12-1 p.m. | July 12 | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com
Bunco
Bring $3 and a snack to share.
1-3 p.m. | July 14
Pinochle
A combination of bidding, melding and trick-taking in one card game.
12-4 p.m. | Tuesdays
Mah Jongg
Play others in this solitaire matching puzzle game.
1-4 p.m. | Fridays
Class fee: $50 per month (unlimited), $60 for 10-class punch card, or $8 drop-in
Yoga
Vinyasa is an energetic form of yoga
designed to connect your breathing to your movements.
10:15 -11 a.m. | Mondays
Tai Chi Fusion
Reduce stress and promote serenity through gentle, flowing movements.
12-1 p.m. | Mondays
Strong for Life
This circuit-style workout incorporates cardio and simple weight training.
1:30 p.m. | Mondays
Pilates
Low-impact movements aim to strengthen muscles while improving posture and flexibility.
12 p.m. | Sunday
Gentle Yoga
A slow, gentle class focusing on strength and alignment.
10:15-11 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays
Line Dancing
Choreographed dancing to a variety of music.
1:30 p.m. | Tuesdays
Essentrics
Strengthen your core and improve balance and mobility.
9-10 a.m. Tuesdays | 12-1 p.m.
Thursdays
Mix It Up!
Low-impact aerobics, simple weight training and stretching.
8-9 a.m. | Wednesdays
Tai Chi Gong
11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Wednesdays & Thursdays
Chair Yoga
Seated poses improve circulation and reduce stress.
12-1 p.m. | Wednesdays
Active Bodies
Circuit-style workout for all levels.
9-10 a.m. | Wednesdays
Zumba Gold
Cardio workout to Latin-inspired dances.
9-10 a.m. | Thursdays
Building Better Bones & Balance
Safe for those with osteoporosis.
1:30 p.m. | Thursdays
N. Hancock Ave., Colorado Springs MonumentHEALTH Walking Tour
5745 Southmoor Dr., Colorado Springs
To register for classes, call 719-600-2644 or visit FVSCenter.org
Barb Bragdon Lunch
Performance
Donations are welcome.
11:30 p.m. | July 20
Mystery Trip
9 a.m. | July 28
Dinner on the Town
Enjoy Cracker Barrel’s down-home cooking. Call to reserve your spot.
5 p.m. | July 26
Interpretive Dance
10:30-11:30 a.m. | Mondays
Knitting/Crocheting
1-2 p.m. | Mondays
Tap Dance 10:15 a.m. | Tuesdays
Porcelain 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; 12:30-3 p.m. | Tuesdays
Quilters 8:30-11 a.m. | Wednesdays
Oil Painting
a.m. | Wednesdays
Harmonizers 2 p.m. | Wednesdays Woodcarving 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Thursdays
Making
Zumba Gold
a.m. | Tuesdays Blood Pressure Checks
a.m. | 1st & 3rd Tuesdays Cardio Drumming
a.m. | Wednesdays
Dementia Support
2-3:30 p.m. | 3rd Wednesday
Chi Kung 10-11 a.m. | Fridays
Ft. Logan Trip
9 a.m. | 2nd Monday
Movie Day
1 p.m. | 2nd Wednesday
Bingo (and cash prizes)
1 p.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays
Birthday Social
Harmonizers perform at lunch. 11 a.m. | July 27
Wii Games
10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Fridays
WOODLAND PARK
321 N. Pine St., Woodland Park
To register for classes, call 719-687-3877 or visit WoodlandParkSeniors.com
Pancake Breakfast
Start Independence Day with a stack of flapjacks!
8-11 a.m. | July 4 | $8
Line Dance Class
Choreographed movements to a variety of music.
10:15 a.m. | Wednesdays
Craft Class
Gourd gnomes workshop.
1-4 p.m. | July 7
Watercolor
Learn to paint with washes and layers.
1-4 p.m. | July 17
Plein Air Painting
Paint outdoors at beautiful Mueller State Park.
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | July 28
Low-Impact Cardio
Tone muscle and pump up the heart in this low-impact exercise program.
9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays
Chair Yoga
|
Making Gold
&
Ice Cream Social Features G&G Music. 1 p.m. | July 21 | $1 Game Day
a.m.-4 p.m. | July 1
Thrift Store Super Saturday
| July 1
Cripple Creek Run
Butte Theater Trip
See the melodrama “Girl of the Golden West.”
10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | July 6 | $10
Memorial Park Picnic
Senior Center provides ribs and drinks. Bring a dish to share.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. | July 15 | Free
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Trip
Admire all the animals!
9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | July 21 | $15
Crochet & Knitting
Bring a project to work on and socialize.
10 a.m. | Wednesdays
Quilters
Bring a project to work on and socialize.
9 a.m. | Mondays
Dominos, Cribbage & Euchre
Choose to play any of these domino games—or all three!
9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Monday-Friday
Bingo
Play for fun and prizes!
10:30-11:30 a.m. | Thursdays
Seated yoga poses improve circulation and range of motion and reduce stress.
9 a.m. | Wednesdays
Chair Tai Chi
Gentle, flowing movements alleviate stress, improve balance and reduce fall risk.
9 a.m. | Fridays
Zumba
Cardio workout to Latin-inspired dances. (No class July 7.)
10:30 a.m. | Fridays
Neighborhood Walk
Socialize and stroll together.
11 a.m.-12 p.m. | July 15
Silver Key Lunch
Make a reservation 24 hours in advance.
11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Monday-Friday | $3.50
Potluck Lunch
Bring a dish to share.
11:45 a.m. | July 11
Catered Meal & Program
11:45 a.m. | July 25 | $7
Each and every year, we help more than 2,000 patients and families navigate the challenges of a life-limiting illness with comfort, dignity and fulfillment.
It is our goal to raise $100,000 to support these programs and services
52. Top-of-the-line
53. Dawn deity
56. Literary collection: Abbr.
57. Invitation request
59. SeaWorld attraction
61. Gossipy Barrett
62. Not straight
63. Tribal emblem
64. Elvis ___ Presley 65. Madcap 66. Second start?
1. School founded in 1440
25. Tennis’s Monica
FLAT RATE COMPUTER REPAIR.
Starting at $60. Free pickup & delivery or up to 2 hours of on-site tune-up, virus removal and/or training. Call Richard with SOBE I.T. 719-470-1910.
2BD 2BA apartment for rent in the Satellite Apartment Building, $1620/ mo. all utilities included. 719-4182610.
Affordable Apartments for Seniors 50+. 3933 East San Miguel St. Colorado Springs, CO 80909. One-bedroom: $875 monthly. Twobedroom: $1,025 monthly. Gas and water included. $500 deposit. No Pets. No Smoking. Call Penny at 720-373-9330.
Zinger model 20.1 collapsible motorized chair, green, with arm rests and basket underneath. Bought new at $2700. Very good condition, used only a few times. Includes new $400 lithium battery. Asking $1150. As is, cash only. 719-471-0614
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT
FREE Amazing artwork giveaway! Works by visionary artist Dexter D. This amazing website includes free episodes of the mystery radio podcast One Step Beyond Reality, and much more! www.VSAstudio1.com
Maxi’s Dance Group is back! Dance party every Thursday 6-9pm, Eagles Club 1050 S. 21st St. Music for ages 40+, food and drink available for purchase. $8 cover; $5 members. 719-660-1358.
VOLUNTEER AT SILVER KEY to help provide seniors with meals, rides, client support, food pantry support, and veterans support. Office staff and materials support also needed. Please apply online at: silverkey.org/volunteer
HOME REPAIR
MORE THAN A HANDYMAN. Home Maintenance, Repairs, Yard Work, Projects. 15% Senior Discount (62+). Call Mike - a Senior and Veteran. 719-338-4279. Voice mail answered same day.
HANDYMAN SERVICES. ODD
JOBS Plumbing, Carpentry, Fences, Decks, Doors, and more. (Mowing or yardwork in
La Cresta Mobile Home Estates, 55+. 205 N. Murray Blvd. #245, COS (near Murray Blvd and E Platte Ave.) Built in 1979: 3BD, 2BA, 1-carport. $97,000. The covered front patio is carpeted, great for relaxing. All appliances included. Pets allowed! Full access to Clubhouse: heated pool and hot tub, billiards, parties, game room, & library. Much more! 719-755-2016
BEN IS BUYING HOUSES. If you would like a quick, no-hassle cash sale for your home in “as-is” condition and for a fair price, please text or call me so we can talk. Ben 719-492-1671
SERVICES
SERVICES
S.C.S.E. SANDYS CARE SERVICE EXPRESS. Need help? Grocery shopping, prescription pickup, mail, bank, non-medial caregiving, shower assistance, meals, pet feeding, etc. Variable hours. Specializing in same day and last minute. 719-203-8898.
TREE REMOVAL, TREE TRIMMING and stump grinding. 24/7 Emergency Service available. Text or Call Ben’s Landscaping 719-492-1671.
YARD SALE
HOLIDAY VILLAGE MOBILE HOME
PARK. Parkwide Yard Sale at 3405 Sinton Road, Colorado Springs. SATURDAY, AUGUST 5th, 9am to 3pm
WANTED
Looking for a Handyman/Housemate, 35+, employed, with dependable truck. Property needs additional attention, Rent/Labor interchangeable. Near Hwy 94, 20 miles east of Schriever AFB. No smoking/drinking/ drugs. Please leave message describing yourself (call back if machine cuts off!) 719-478-3174.
1950S-1960S LP’S, 78’s AND 45’s. Blues, jazz, rock ‘n roll, country, Broadway, movie soundtracks, TV, R&B, soul, children’s, spoken word, etc. I’m a collector, not a business. Call me first - I pay the most for your records. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288
BBB A+ RATING. Tree & Shrub trimming and removal, insect disease control, stump grinding. Licensed & insured, spring discounts, free estimates. Colorado Springs, El Paso County. 719-205-7936.
DAILY LABOR: Gutter cleaning, yard cleaning, house cleaning, gardening, handyman repairs by size. Painting $25 per hour. 719-310-5247.
CASH FOR OLD BANKS AND TOYS, presidential pin back buttons, Simpich dolls, military insignia and memorabilia. Will buy single items or entire collections. 719-632-9904.
VINTAGE ITEMS WANTED. TOYS, comic books, children’s books, dolls, movie and music posters, Halloween, guitars and amplifiers, and plastic model kits. I’m a collector, not a business. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288.
Brothers Bagels Mondays - Carryout Only, $9 Baker’s Dozen
*Discounts subject to change without notice. Please confirm discount prior to redeeming.
By Arthur Vidro
Our political leaders of all parties frequently extol the virtue of buying American-made products. Best I can figure, it’s somehow patriotic, but it’s far from easy to do.
It used to be fairly easy. When I was born, a person buying a television usually bought a unit made in the U.S. because that’s what the stores carried. When I became an adult, the U.S. was down to one television manufacturer (Zenith).
Every town had television and radio repair shops, which restored the devices when they stopped functioning. Of course, those were the days before these devices contained anything more advanced than a transistor. Most of today’s tech is made from computers, which don’t always lend themselves to repair. Nowadays, a device that no longer works properly is discarded and replaced. Thus, repair shops have almost completely faded away.
There have been no U.S. television makers in the 21st century. This phenomenon evolved because consumers tend to opt for items that cost less money. Foreign-made units amassed more and more market share, regardless of their quality. Eventually, U.S. companies could no longer compete.
I’m not saying our leaders’ encouragement to “buy American” is good or bad. I’m saying it’s darned difficult.
We can summon up the will and the cash to pay a little extra for the privilege of buying American, but it’s nearly impossible.
The average gasoline-propelled car contains about 30,000 parts, making it impossible to buy a vehicle that is all American.
Textiles. Woodworking tools. Thermoses. Shoes. The few American manufacturers that exist are in the minority—and they cost more.
I’m willing to pay extra for New Balance shoes, not because they’re made in America (which they are), but because they’re kinder to my feet.
About 16 years ago, I was fed up with how quickly our light bulbs were burning out, so I set out to buy some quality bulbs. I visited a mammoth lighting store that had racks to the ceiling filled with all kinds of bulbs, from the commonplace to the ultra-specialized. But I couldn’t find what I was seeking.
A manager asked if he could help.
“Do you sell light bulbs made in the United States?” I asked. “I’d even pay extra for them.”
He seemed startled. “Don’t have any,” he replied.
“Can they be ordered?” No.
“Do you sell light bulbs made anywhere in North America?” No.
“Do you sell light bulbs made by any country that isn’t China?” No.
Despite the upscale merchandise in the store, it stocked only the cheapest light bulbs—those made in China.
Buying the cheapest version of a product has become the American way.
Earlier this year, I found a pack of Sylvania light bulbs at a hardware store that said, “Made in the USA.” I bought the package before reading the fine print: “with U.S. and Global Parts.” ■
