April 2023 - BEACON Senior News

Local magicians reveal their secrets to aging well

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27 100 Doesn’t Scare Me!

This octogenarian isn’t scared of much—she had to give up her skate board because too many youngsters were getting in the way!

30 Travel Back in Time

Winchester, Virginia is no artificial attraction. It was a real place where important chapters of American history were written and remain

Plastic is For Losers!

These master upcyclers give unwanted items new life

Raising Goats Will Put a Spring In Your Step

A Palisade farmer shares the joys of raising Boer goats

20

Dish

5

See

34 The Greatness of Servants

Share the love of Christ during ShareFest weekend on April 29 & 30

35 Talking Digital: How Google

Became the Most Powerful Company on the Internet

I can’t think of anyone I know who couldn’t benefit from at least one of these Google services

36 Grow & Give: How Backyard Gardeners Can Help Seniors

Now is the best time to start your garden and donate some of the extra produce to those who need it

Tackle

Celebrate age at Grand Junction BeaconFest

Get ready to treat yourself to a fun-filled day of learning and entertainment at Grand Junction BeaconFest on Thursday, April 20!

Don’t miss this year’s show from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St.

BeaconFest is Colorado’s largest and funnest celebration for seniors, baby boomers and their families. No other senior expo around has live music, delicious food samples and a full schedule of educational seminars—all for FREE!

Visitors can register for fabulous prizes, including vacation packages, hot springs soaks, home furniture, restaurant gift cards and more.

Local musicians King n Trio, Swing City Combo, Javier de los Santos and Donny Morales will perform on the main stage, while the foyer hosts the barbershop melodies of Canyon Grand Barbershop Quartet;

the high-energy entertainment of Peggy Malone; accordionist Mike Gazdak; Robin Freed & Harps in

Motion Ensemble; and classic pop hits by Jimmy LIVE. BeaconFest is also the best

opportunity to visit directly with more than 100 local businesses and national agencies devoted to helping older adults age well in Western Colorado. Learn from local experts about Medicare, advance directives, breakthrough medical treatments, charitable giving and more in our free seminars.

At 1 p.m., BeaconFest honors some of our community’s most giving and passionate senior volunteers during the Volunteer of the Year ceremony.

Grand Junction BeaconFest is sponsored by Medicare Resource Center; Hilltop Senior Services; Humana; Family Health West; Bellco Credit Union; Colorado Advanced Orthopedics, Sports Medicine & Spine; and KREX-TV.

To learn more visit BeaconFest. BeaconSeniorNews.com or call 970-243-8829. ■

Free admission, live music and big giveaways at Colorado’s funnest boomer and senior expo

God, grant me a Porsche!

Our graphic designer told me a story from when he worked for a magazine publisher in San Diego. After an issue of the magazine came out, one of the senior editors would meet with a younger editor and tell him, “I’ll buy you a Porsche the first issue you have that doesn’t have a typo or mistake in it.”

At the BEACON, we’re always striving for that Porsche, even though no one has ever offered to buy us one. We assume the publishing gods will graciously bestow it on us once we achieve a perfect issue. We’ve already coordinated schedules so we can take turns driving it.

Last month, we know for a fact we didn’t earn that Porsche. Readers who know Clarissa Sullivan in Delta may not have recognized her in our Question of the Month column (page 53). That’s because somehow Janine Briscoe’s photo from page 43 mistakenly made it in both places. Clarissa’s answer was also cut short.

We really hate making mistakes, so to Clarissa and Janine, we are sorry! Here’s what Clarissa really looks like and her entire response to last month’s question: What is something a stranger has done for you that you’ve never forgotten?

PROTECT OUR PLANET

Earth Day is April 22. And though I’m no tree hugger, I believe that humans can do so much more to treat our planet kindly.

I try to make more eco-conscious decisions, such as conserving energy with a home solar system, using fewer chemicals, drinking out of reusable water bottles instead of buying plastic, donating used clothes and housewares that are still in good condition, and recycling (although it’s likely I recycle things that aren’t recyclable, because who can keep track these days?)

I know there’s a lot more I could do, but I’m not going to drastically alter my lifestyle to go green. I’m not so devoted that I will take cold showers, or walk or bike to work, and I can’t always afford to eat things that are organic, non-GMO, grass-fed and cage-free.

But I wish I were more artistic. Have you heard of “upcycling?” It’s the trending practice of giving unwanted items new life, turning trash into treasure, or using reclaimed materials to make something new and functional.

It’s just awesome that you guys do [the Community Concerts giveaway] and somebody will get to go—of course, we always hope it’s us! My husband is such a music person and he loves Chicago. We enjoy the BEACON. It’s just a shining light. Thanks for everything you do!

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A noble bee earns its wings (March)

I am in awe of your Legacy newspaper article! It’s amazing, stupendous and absolutely beautiful! Way to hit it out of the park!

Caregiver Column (March)

I read your story titled “But I promised to never put Mom in a nursing home.” The advice given by Dr. Landon seemed so canned and very callous. A typical system-serving series of remarks.

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A magnificent return to a passion long buried (March)

Thank you for the wonderful and beautiful story on D.Jo! It’s a treasure.

I am not my age (March)

“My granddaughter and I were visiting Cabo San Lucas, Mexico when I tripped and twisted my ankle stepping off a curb. The couple behind us saw what happened and offered to help us. We went to their house across the street. They iced my ankle, served us lunch and we had a lovely afternoon together. I offered them money, but they refused. Once I was feeling better, they got us a taxi and we went back to the cruise ship safely.”

No doubt you know someone who restores furniture or jewelry. In this month’s issue, we introduce you to two local ladies who upcycle more unique items—from Chaco sandal straps to ceramic teapots. Read about them and their artwork on pages 10 and 11.

SEE YOU AT BEACONFEST

With more than 100 exhibitors, prize giveaways, live entertainment, freebies and food, it’s no wonder BeaconFest is the area’s largest boomer and senior fair. And, just as it sounds, it’s always a ton of fun!

Join us at Grand Junction Convention Center from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, as we celebrate everything that’s great about getting older. BeaconFest is free to attend, and it’s our way of saying, thank you for reading the BEACON!

To learn more about this year’s show, visit BeaconFest.BeaconSeniorNews.com ■

It is really a hard thing to find you are no longer needed or valued in the workplace. Being a contributing member of society gives us a reason to get up every day. I am fortunate that I am a fully functional senior at 83 orbits around the sun. I have been the accounting manager for 11+ years in my son’s business. Yes, he does worry occasionally about what he would do if I was suddenly unable to be there to process payroll. I just tell him not to worry. I will be there.

Volunteer of the Year

We would like to cast our vote for Joy Bush. We have known her for years and are impressed with her selfless dedication to her community, her church and her friends. In our minds, she has definitely earned the title of Volunteer of the Year.

There’s magic in the air when Dave Wallen is around.

Wallen, 68, has been performing sleight of hand with cards and coins since his mother taught him his first magic trick when he was 5.

“I kind of pretend I’m really doing magic,” he said as he made a quarter disappear from one hand and appear in the other.

Mom wasn’t his only mentor. “The Magical Land of Allakazam,” a television show that ran from 1960 to 1964, kept him glued to the screen while he studied magician Mark Wilson and his assistants as they performed stage magic. Wallen always tried to figure out what made the tricks work.

“When I saw a magician hold a small ball in one hand and make it appear in the other, I tried to figure out how it was done,” he said. “My child’s mind told me there must be a tube that ran up from one hand across the shoulder and down to the other hand.”

Now he knows better.

Falkenstein and Willard, two mentalists who performed on stage, also kept the incipient enter tainer riveted.

“Willard, the woman, would go into the audience and ask a random guest for a dollar bill and to concentrate on the serial number,” Wallen said. “Then Falkenstein, still on stage, would correctly ‘read’ the number.”

The Grand Junction magician started doing magic for others when he was in his 20s. When he started astonishing audiences in restaurants, that motivated him to expand his family friendly act at private parties and events.

However, “I don’t do parties for toddlers because they’re all about balloons and cake and fun. But when kids get to be around 8 or 9, they can focus more and try to figure out the tricks.”

When Wallen does shows for kids, he will ask if they really want to learn the trick.

“The kids’ expressions are priceless!” he said. And he proceeds to show them how it’s done— no tubes or gadgets needed.

DEVELOPING STYLE

Wallen’s performances are dictated by the audience. He can move into an impromptu act at the drop of a quarter or card, charming people with seemingly impossible illusions.

Wallen also does what he calls mentalism. He can flip through a book, then ask someone to pick two cards from a deck he fans out. After each draw, he tells the person that he can always change his mind. The first card and the second card form a two-digit number and he asks the person to then turn to that page number while he turns away.

“Concentrate on the first word on the page,” he instructs. Then, “I see a four-letter word that starts with T. Is it ‘tops’?”

HOLY COW! HOW’D HE DO THAT?

Wallen enjoys performing for small audiences with cabaret-style magic and close-up sleight of hand. According to Durango magician Mitch Harwood, that’s where a magician’s art really shines.

“I love doing stage magic because I have a team and hearing that crowd is great, but I feel like the art of magic is in close-up sleight of hand,” said Harwood, 62. “When you’re doing magic and someone is two feet away from you, you’d better be good.”

Harwood is most known for his stage magic and vaudeville shows. But throughout his career, he’s done it all—from kid shows and festivals to theaters and close-up magic.

He started doing magic at age 10 when his mother, a schoolteacher, introduced him and his older brother Bill to a boy in her class who did magic. The boy’s uncle demonstrated magic at Jack’s Joke Shop in downtown Boston, and the three of them spent a lot of time practicing and buying magic tricks.

When Bill went into high school and discovered girls, he handed down his magic equipment to his little brother.

Harwood started doing birthday parties for $5. When he was 14, he was asked to do a benefit for the cancer society.

Local magicians reveal their secrets to aging well

HARWOOD’S

“My dad helped me build a stage illusion where I could float a kid from the audience. I had done so many birthdays that we sold out 300 seats in the junior high school auditorium and raised $1,200 for the cancer society,” he recalled.

Harwood went off to college in Austin, Texas, and started doing magic on the street and in nightclubs, including Esther’s Follies, the city’s premier vaudeville theatre and comedy troupe. He gained notoriety in 1991 when he won Best Stage Magician and Best Close-Up Magician at a magician’s convention in Dallas.

“I was the only magician to ever win both awards in the same year and it did absolutely nothing for my career,” Harwood confessed.

Through mutual friends, he met bar magician Doc Eason who booked him at a children’s festival in Aspen. From that, Harwood was hired to do shows up and around Telluride and Aspen, and never left.

A MAGICIAN’S SECRETS

Harwood’s stage show, The Mysto Magic Show, features clean entertainment that’s evocative of

Abbott and Costello, Lucille Ball and Bugs Bunny. His lovely assistant is an acrobat who spins fire with her feet. He also does comedic skits with characters, including a cowboy, a gypsy, a kid learning magic and Dr. Bones, who treats his patient’s tummy ache with the “tummy-taker-outer.”

“That’s the generation I grew up in, that’s my style of humor and that’s my show,” said Harwood.

He’s been working on the show for over a decade, adding more lights, music, acts and of course, magic. He learns new tricks and techniques at magic conventions, from fellow magicians and at a friend’s magic school in Las Vegas. Once he develops a trick, perfecting it takes hours of rehearsal and stage time.

“It’s just a matter of performing it again and again,” he said. “Last year, we did our show 62 times in three and a half months.”

Magic conventions also help Wallen expand his repertoire, along with his huge collection of books, which includes a second edition of Harry Houdini’s book exposing fake mediums.

Although anyone can learn from the internet, self-taught Wallen said they risk becoming just a carbon copy of whomever they’re watching. Learning from books lets someone develop their own style. If you can’t master a particular trick, no worries. You can get really good at others.

Wallen works the early shift at his day job, which keeps his evenings free for magic. He performs at private events and at Dos Hombres in

Clifton every Thursday evening.

Harwood mostly performs regionally, including private events and corporate retreats. Earlier this year, he performed his solo show—a more intimate performance—at Blue Sage Center for the Arts in Paonia, Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center in Cedaredge and the Montrose Pavilion. He plans to return with performances this summer, in addition to his residency at Durango’s Animas City Theatre in July and August.

“We had a lot of laughs and a lot of fun,” said Harwood. “What I love most about magic is the places it’s taken me and the people I’ve met. I recently did a wedding at the largest ranch in Colorado and I don’t think most people know where it is. At the Telluride Brews and Blues festival, I was backstage doing impromptu close-up magic for rock stars and their families.”

Neither Wallen nor Harwood see an end to their magic. Harwood recalled seeing a wellknown magician when he was 101.

“I think that’s going to be me,” he said. “I may not do the illusion show forever, but there’s no end to this.”

To book Harwood or to see upcoming shows, call 970-759-5015 or visit MystoMagicShow.com. To book Wallen, call 970-261-3122.

STAGE SHOW FEATURES CLEAN ENTERTAINMENT THAT’S EVOCATIVE OF ABBOTT AND COSTELLO, LUCILLE BALL AND BUGS BUNNY. “THAT’S THE GENERATION I GREW UP IN, THAT’S MY STYLE OF HUMOR AND THAT’S MY SHOW,” HE SAID.

“Plastic is for losers!” Paonia’s Eco Bag Lady says

Long-time professional seamstress and designer Sherrion Taylor treasures the homemade canvas bags her son Tony made.

“I’m the mother of twin sons,” said Taylor, 78. “One year, Tony made his family one of these bags out of canvas, then he took my fabrics and appliquéd them onto the bags.”

Years later, after Taylor moved to Paonia, she was going through her stuff and found the little sack.

“I have bags and boxes of leftover scraps. I thought, I’m gonna just get rid of some of these fabrics, so I just started making [the bags] myself,” said Taylor.

She thought they would be a great way to repurpose the designer fabrics she gets from the Kravet Showroom in the Denver Design Center.

“It’s all high-quality stuff,” she said. “They send me samples that are discontinued. I decide what I want to keep and I share it with other people who like to sew. Then I repurpose all this gorgeous fabric.”

At first, she used regular strapping for the bag handles, but then a colleague of hers from Chaco, the footwear company that started in Paonia, gave her some leftover sandal straps, which Taylor found were much stronger for her bags.

“That’s really what makes the bags special,” she said.

FABULOUS FABRIC DESIGNS

Taylor has lived around fabrics all her life. Proud of her Slovenian heritage, she said sewing was part of her culture.

“You’re born crocheting with your umbilical cord!” she joked.

She added that her mother could crochet an afghan in half a day.

“She made all of my school clothes,” she said.

But Taylor herself wasn’t interested in crocheting. Born and raised in Aspen, she used her aunt’s sewing machine to learn how to sew.

After she grew up and had her boys, she spent some time in Boulder where she started a children’s fine arts school, then later moved to Vail where she met a businesswoman who needed someone to help with her design work.

Thus began Taylor’s career in fabric design. She made custom skirts, draperies, slipcovers and more out of quality fabrics. When she later moved to Telluride, she started her own business, which was the mother company for her current business, Eco Bag Lady Says.

Today, she lives in Paonia where she has an upstairs sewing room stacked with fabrics. She washes and dries them all after receiving them, then repurposes them into fun eco bags and other products, including Paonia purple bike jerseys.

ORGANIC ROOTS

As to why Taylor wanted to make eco-friendly bags, she said, “We need to stop this stupid buying junk that’s poisoning the rivers and our environment. And the plastic. Plastic is for losers!”

Again she credits her Slovenian culture for her love of the environment, noting that her mother gardened almost until the day she died.

“I was always around women who produced food for the family,” she said, “very creative, fabulous cooks, so I’ve been around the organic scene since the early ’70s.”

Now, Taylor sells her eco bags all over the world in the hopes of contributing to a cleaner environment.

“All the fabrics are pre-washed and shrunk,” she said, and are machine washable, though she recommends line drying. “They make great gifts!” She suggests getting the bags for family and friends around the holidays, or for weddings and baby showers.

These high-quality bags can be used for groceries, but Taylor said they can also be used as diaper bags, lunch bags, potluck dish bags, beach bags, overnight bags and swim bags. She makes a purse-size bag, too.

“I’ve had one myself for five years,” she said. “I put a very sturdy bottom in the bags. The seams are serged. They’re really beautifully constructed. This isn’t a cheap canvas bag with something printed on it.”

Locally, Taylor sells her bags at Small Mall on Main, 558 Main St. in Grand Junction; and in Paonia at The Blue Sage Gallery, 228 Grand Ave., and Sweetgrass Restaurant, 120 Grand Ave. She’s also at the Palisade Farmers Market during the summer, Paonia’s Cherry Days Festival and the Refined Art Festival in Cedaredge (coming up on May 27).

She also sells them on Etsy and at EcoBagLadySaysCO.com

“I’m repurposing it and keeping stuff out of the landfill,” she said. ■

What to do with Grandma’s old stuff Repurposed teapots brighten ordinary gardens

Spring is here, which gets many of us thinking of fresh ways to spruce up our yards and gardens.

Ruth Greene, 82, doesn’t have a garden of her own, but that doesn’t stop her from creating charming teapot totems that other people can use to add some color and personality to their gardens.

She came up with the idea six years ago when she saw a ceramics club gathered in a local park in Tucson, Arizona, working with ceramic houses.

“The area was very well taken care of,” said Greene, “and their beautiful pieces caught my eye.”

She went home and thought about what she could substitute for the houses. That’s when it came to her: teapots.

THEMED TOTEMS

Each totem consists of 14 piec es or so and stands about 40 inches high.

“The totem idea came because I’m a native Alaskan,” said Greene.

Greene shops the sales at Goodwill and other thrift stores for ceramic teapots, teacups, saucers, planters, plates and decorative china to make the totems. Each is one of a kind.

“It’s fascinating all the teapots I’ve found,” said Greene. “I have a some shaped like houses and beehives…some that have cats, among others.”

ing these ceramic towers, Greene had several careers, including a deputy sheriff in Buffalo, New York and a carpenter. Together with her ex-husband, they sold hickory sapling rockers and other Amish furniture.

Her carpentry skills come in handy when she assembles the totems. She starts by drilling a hole in each piece, then artfully stacking them around a piece of rebar that’s stuck in the ground. She glues together the first three or four pieces and numbers each of them so totems are easy to take apart, package and reassemble once sold.

ART TO WEAR & SHARE

them, and tourists photograph themselves with them,” said Greene.

Her other art gets just as much attention, especially her jackets made from old quilts.

“I use old quilts that are on their last leg. I love to repurpose that stuff,” she said.

Greene will do commissioned teapot totems as long as customers supply the teapots. She’s also willing to mix in items from her own collection.

“I’d love to add some family pieces,” said Greene. “You know, those items where people wonder, ‘What am I going to do with all of Grandma’s stuff?’”

Ruth Greene fashions teapot totems from used ceramic wares and decorative china. Photos by Michael L. Madsen

Many follow a theme. She’s made totems for cat lovers, and some that are Christmas themed and patriotic red, white and blue. She currently has a Day of the Dead piece with ceramic sugar skulls.

Long before she started creat-

Greene sold many of her totems to coffee shops and tea houses in Phoenix until she moved to Grand Junction over two years ago. Now, her totems are displayed outside Ville 718, a hotel at 718 Horizon Drive in Grand Junction.

“People smile when they see

Prices for her artwork are around $500 for each piece of wall art, $150 for quilt jackets, and $80 for totems.

To see more of her work, contact Greene at 970314-6857 or email greenr8@msn. com. ■

Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip

Recipe courtesy of Culinary.net

Servings: 24

Ingredients

16 ounces frozen spinach, thawed

8 ounces cream cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Directions:

Heat oven to 375 F.

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

11/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

2 crescent roll tubes (8 ounces each)

In skillet, over medium heat, cook spinach, cream cheese and garlic 3-4 minutes until cream cheese is melted. Stir in mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper and Italian seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cook until cheese is melted. Keep skillet on burner over low heat.

Remove dough from tubes. Leaving dough intact, roll and stretch into 18-inch ropes. Cut each rope into 12 pieces for 24 total. On baking sheet with parchment paper, form bunny head by placing one piece of dough in middle then surrounding it with six more pieces. Use 13 pieces to form round body. Use remaining pieces to form ears on top of head.

Scoop hot spinach dip into center. Spoon small portions on each ear. Sprinkle ears and belly with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake 18 minutes, or until crescent dough is golden brown and thoroughly cooked. ■

How caregivers can manage hygiene and incontinence

Dear Laird: I feel like I am on a 24/7 treadmill, and it keeps going faster and faster. My wife was diagnosed with dementia 12 years ago. She was stable for a long time, but not anymore. While she can still move around and eat by herself, she is declining. She is now incontinent and can’t take care of herself hygienically. She won’t even let me help her in the shower, and she won’t wear Depends. What do I do? Signed, Allan

Dear Allan: Incontinence is common in the late stage of dementia. It is a significant strain for family caregivers because it forces us to recognize the physical decline of our loved one.

You and the rest of us men have scarce experience with toileting another person. It is natural for your wife to push away help from anyone; however, in late-stage dementia, she may have little awareness that there is a problem.

A daughter may be a better fit as a caregiver in this case than a husband. Service providers are another option. Home care companies are non-medical care providers that help with activities of daily living including toileting. Home health care companies are different. They provide medical care, not personal hygiene care. Home care costs about $30 per hour. Medicaid or Medicare might cover it. For seniors, the Area Agency on Aging may cover up to six hours a month of care.

It is common to resist a stranger’s help. However, most trained professionals can win your wife over. Then again, your wife may resist the stranger and decide to allow you to help.

Let’s step back and talk about your future. During late-stage dementia, patients require much more care. Eating, bathing, transferring and walking all require care.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

You will need more and more help as time passes. Understand that no one person can do it all. So don’t think badly of yourself if you can’t.

It’s time to make a plan. You may be able to enlist help from either family members or friends. It may also be time to consider placing her in a care facility. At the end, hospice will be a blessing for you both. If you qualify, Medicaid can help with the cost of placement. Medicare can cover the costs of hospice.

Please do not think you are failing if you ask for help. No matter how much we love, there are tasks we cannot do. Our job is to find a way not to be the only caregiver. ■

Send your questions to Laird in care of the BEACON, or email him at Laird@Family-Caregiver.org

why

Compass Medical?

We take a holistic approach to your health.

Chiropractic is a critical component of care offered in our Grand Junction, Clifton and Montrose office. Chiropractic addresses subluxation, or misalignment of the spine.

Subluxation disrupts the body’s ability to function properly, as it impacts every cell, tissue, organ, muscle and bodily system. Symptoms may include headaches, digestive issues, numbness and tingling.

We practice various techniques and technology.

Traditional chiropractic treatments are done by hand. The doctor adjusts the vertebrae by delivering a specific force to the spine. However, sometimes this manual procedure cannot be done fast enough to counteract the body’s muscles “tightening up.”

In our office, we use an instrument developed by NASA called the ProAdjuster 360, which allows the patient to remain seated during an adjustment with no twisting, turning, popping or cracking. This gentle approach is ideal for those who are nervous about traditional adjustments, or have osteoporosis or other conditions.

With the ProAdjuster 360, the doctor scans the spine to find where it isn’t moving properly and adjusts only the misaligned vertebrae. When the machine senses something move, it stops adjusting automatically.

The doctor will perform a second scan after the adjustment to ensure a change was made. All of these scans and adjustments are displayed via graphs on a computer screen right in front of you!

Dish up some healthy pecan recipes for National Pecan Month

Pee-can or peh-kahn. No matter

its pronunciation, pie is usually what comes to mind when we think of this delicious nut. But there is more to this nutrient-packed powerhouse.

The pecan nuts, with their crunchy texture and buttery flavor, make an exciting component in several dishes, snacks or condiments.

We can stuff them in peppers with goat cheese or toss them in a salad for some crunch. Pecans pair beautifully with caramel, too, so add a handful on top of a caramel cheesecake or spruce up ice cream with a splash of bourbon pecans or

candied pecans. We can even add a crumbly pecan topping to a coffee cake or add it to a batch of chocolate chip cookies.

Pecans are the only major tree nut that grows naturally in North America. The U.S. grows and supplies approximately 80% of the world’s pecans, producing 250 to 300 million pounds annually. Albany, Georgia is the pecan capital with more than 600,000 pecan trees.

April is National Pecan Month, so think outside the pie and grab a handful of pecans for a hearthealthy snack.

Just a handful can help lower cholesterol and contains more than

Crispy Pecan Fish Fillets

My favorite recipe from The National Pecan Shellers Association’s 75th Anniversary Cookbook

Ingredients

• 11/2 lbs. fish fillets (catfish, snapper, flounder or fish of choice)

• 1 cup milk

• 1 Tbsp. tabasco sauce

• ½ tsp. salt

Directions:

• 2 cups yellow cornmeal

• 1 stick of unsalted butter

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup pecans, chopped

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice

1. Wash fish fillets under cold running water and place in bowl with milk, tabasco and salt.

2. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

3. Just before cooking, drain fillets and dredge in the cornmeal.

4. Heat 2 tablespoons each of butter and vegetable oil in skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Fry cornmeal-covered fillets until crispy and brown (about 2 minutes on each side).

6. Remove from pan with slotted spatula and drain on paper towels.

7. Repeat until all fish is fried. Keep warm. Drain the skillet and add remaining butter.

8. Place over medium heat and when melted, add pecans.

9. Stir constantly while pecans brown.

10. Add parsley and lemon juice and stir.

11. Pour sauce over fillets and serve immediately.

19 vitamins and minerals.

Pecans, with the high level of antioxidants including vitamin E, is thought to help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by nearly 25%. By helping reduce oxidative stress caused by inflammation, antioxidants protect cells and tissues of vital organs like our brain. Pecans are a high-quality source of protein and are naturally sodium free.

If you’re feeling excited about

this super healthy nut, you’re in luck! The National Pecan Shellers Association’s 75th Anniversary Cookbook features 75 delicious, heart-healthy, chef-inspired recipes. Celebrate National Pecan Month by downloading the recipe book for free at ILovePecans.org/recipes. ■

7 Pecan Trivia Facts

• It takes about 78 pecans for one pecan pie.

• Okmulgee, Oklahoma holds the world’s record for largest pecan pie, pecan cookie and pecan brownie. The town held an annual Pecan Festival each June until 2009.

• Pecan wood is used in baseball bats, hammer handles, furniture, wall paneling, flooring and the 1996 Olympic torches.

• Thomas Jefferson planted a pecan tree in his orchard and would gift the other founding fathers pecans.

• Pecan trees live for 300 years, grow to over 150 feet tall with trunks that measure over 3 feet in diameter.

• Astronauts took pecans to the moon twice in the Apollo space mission.

• Roasted pecan shells were often used as a substitute for coffee during World War II

Carefree retirement living.

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

6 critical reasons you need zinc

Zinc is the second-most abundant trace mineral in the human body after iron. Though our bodies only require small amounts of zinc to reap the benefits, it’s easy to become deficient, especially if you follow a diet without zinc-rich foods. Other signs you may be lacking in zinc include a lack of taste or smell, hair loss, low appetite, fatigue, auditory loss, low libido and bone fragility.

Zinc plays a far greater impact on the body than most of us realize. Making an effort to supplement your diet with healthy amounts of zinc will have an overall positive impact in these areas:

1. Immunity. There are numerous trials on zinc’s role in immunity. One 2019 study published in the journal “Clinical Infectious Diseases” concluded: “Our results showed that, in COVID-19 patients, oral zinc can decrease 30-day death, ICU admission rate and can shorten symptom duration.”

2. Asthma and allergies. In September 2022, a paper published in “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” stated researchers found that children were more susceptible to allergies and asthmatic disease if they did not have adequate amounts of zinc.

and inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea.

4. Bones and teeth. It’s well known that zinc works in tandem with other bone-loving minerals like strontium, boron, calcium and vitamin D. Low zinc correlates with reduced bone density. The recommended doses for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis are somewhere between 15mg to 30mg of zinc daily.

5. Prevent prostate cancer Most doctors agree that zinc is useful to reproductive function. Low zinc correlates with higher rates of miscarriages and low sperm count. Studies suggest zinc may inhibit certain prostate cancer cell lines and slow metastasis. Tissue specimens taken from these patients show reduced levels of zinc.

6. Thyroid function. Zinc deficiency contributes to many symptoms of thyroid illness. Low zinc can lead to the development of hypothyroidism, which causes the thyroid to stop producing the thyroid hormone. This will, in turn, deplete zinc faster.

970.434.2111

3. Skincare. According to a meta-analysis published in “The Journal of Dermatological Treatment” (August 2022), zinc supplementation has a lot of benefits for skin-related disorders. It appears to help with leishmaniasis, warts

DEAR PHARMACIST

It’s important to seek out ways to consume more zinc. You can obtain adequate amounts through your diet, especially with foods such as shellfish, poultry, red meat and whole grains. Some fruits are naturally rich in zinc. These include guava, cantaloupe, peaches and pomegranates.

Chelated zinc supplements are also great because they are bound to a natural amino acid that won’t upset your stomach. ■

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

Be the difference for a kitten in need

Thefirst time I met my cats, Peach and Plum, their fragile frames fit in the palm of my hand. Despite being born to different cats on opposite ends of the valley, these girls shared parallel stories.

In July 2020, both kittens were found outdoors, dirty and in distress after being abandoned by their mothers. Miraculously, both kittens were rescued and quickly moved into a Roice-Hurst Humane Society foster home for their only chance at survival.

Their journey from rescue to adoption required a precise balance of luck, knowledge and love through the critical first weeks of kittenhood, ultimately enabling my most beloved companions to share a beautiful life with me today.

The first humans Peach and Plum met were their rescuers. Not only did these kind people serendipitously stumble across the kittens and choose to help, they correctly assessed the situation and responded appropriately.

Oftentimes when newborn kittens are discovered outdoors, well-meaning people immediately scoop them up and drop them off at a shelter. Unfortunately, this can be detrimental to kittens and shelters alike if the kittens’ doting mama is just around the corner. A newborn kitten’s best caretaker is always their mother, so only intervene when you are positive that kittens are truly abandoned. When in doubt, call a shelter like Roice-Hurst for guidance.

After some stabilization, the kittens met their incredible foster family. Orphaned kittens require a human to bottle feed them, stimu -

late them to potty and keep them warm and fed around-the-clock, just as a mother cat would. Peach and Plum survived because their nurturing foster family said yes to the call for help.

Along the way, Roice-Hurst provided all necessary vet care and supplies. Animal lovers in our community donated funds and supplies from the shelter’s wish list, allowing foster families to focus on saving lives without taking on a financial burden.

Eight weeks later, I signed Peach and Plum’s adoption paperwork to give them the happily ever after they always deserved.

Peach and Plum were born during kitten season, which happens annually between now and the end of autumn when cats reproduce. This kitten season, in honor of Peach and Plum, I challenge you to be the difference for a kitten in need. Learn more about fostering, donating and adopting at RHHumaneSociety.org. ■

Common sense is not a gift. It’s a punishment because you have to deal with everyone else who doesn’t have it.

I came. I saw. I forgot what I was doing. Retraced my steps. Got lost on the way back. Now I have no idea what’s going on.

If you can’t think of a word, say “I forgot the English word for it...” That way people will think you’re bilingual instead of an idiot.

I’m at a place in my life where errands are starting to count as going out.

I don’t always go the extra mile, but when I do it’s because I missed my exit.

Having plans sounds like a good idea...until you have to put on clothes and leave the house.

It’s weird being the same age as old people.

When I was a kid I wanted to be older. This is is not what I expected. Life is like a helicopter. I don’t know how to operate a helicopter either.

It’s probably my age that tricks people into thinking I’m an adult. Never sing in the shower! Singing leads to dancing. Dancing leads to slipping. And slipping leads to paramedics seeing you naked. So don’t sing!

I see people my age mountain climbing. I feel good just getting my leg through my underwear without losing my balance.

We all get heavier as we get older because there’s a lot more information in our heads. That’s my story anyway.

SAND TRAPS

Submitted by Cliff Richardson

An octogenarian who was an avid

golfer moved to a new town and joined the local country club. He went to the club for the first time to play but was told there wasn’t anybody he could play because they were already out on the course. He repeated several times that he really wanted to play. Finally, the assistant pro said he would play with him and asked how many strokes he wanted for a bet.

The 80-year-old said, “I really don’t need any strokes as I have been playing quite well. The only real problem I have is getting out of sand traps.”

And he did play well. Coming to the par four 18th, they were even. The pro had a nice drive and was able to get on the green and 2-putt for a par. The old man had a nice drive, but his approach shot landed in a sand trap next to the green. Playing from the bunker, he hit a high ball that landed on the green and rolled into the hole! Birdie, match, and all the money!

The pro walked over to the sand trap where his opponent was still standing in the trap. He said, “Nice shot, but I thought you said you have a problem getting out of sand traps?”

The octogenarian replied, “I do. Please give me a hand.”

ANGER MANAGEMENT

Submitted by Yvonne Ruth

Husband: “When I get mad at you, you never fight back. How do you control your anger?”

Wife: “I clean the toilet.”

Husband: “How does that help?”

Wife: “I use your toothbrush.”

JUST RIGHT

Submitted by Carolyn Ryan

Do you know why mermaids wear seashells?

Because a B is too small and a D is too big. ■

Community Concerts of the Grand Valley 2022-2023

Concert Series

THANK YOU fellow music lovers!

Community Concerts of the Grand Valley (CCGV) would like to extend a big thank you for supporting our diverse, uplifting and successful season of great music! Our membership increased significantly over that of the previous season, and concert attendance strengthened to our pre-COVID numbers.

Divas 3 brought us a bit of Vegas, the rousing Cherish the Ladies group transported us to Ireland, and the Everly Set provided a good dose of nostalgia. Then we were off to California with the Sail On surfin’ party

Beach Boys tribute, to the American West with the Dan Miller Cowboy Music Revue, and to Beginnings, a celebration of the music of Chicago.

Finally, in collaboration with the

Avalon Theatre and the Avalon Theatre Foundation, we are offering a bonus concert in May—Hank Williams and My Honky Tonk Heroes—to help celebrate the Avalon’s centennial and Hank’s 100th birthday!

Who made all of this possible? YOU, our valued and faithful ticket-holding members; our very generous sponsors and donors; our dedicated volunteers and the amazingly helpful Avalon staff; our artist agents; and our wonderful friends at the BEACON. To all of you, we are grateful!

Here’s what’s in store for our 79th season:

• Folk Legacy Trio

September 20, 2023

Music of the great folk era (’50s-’70s), delivering songs from The Weavers, The Kingston Trio, Peter Paul & Mary, The Chad Mitchell Trio and many others.

• Phat Cat Swinger

October 3, 2023

This 11-piece “little big band” effortlessly channels the rockstar energy of Freddie Mercury and

Congratulations to our 2022-2023 concert ticket winners!

Not pictured:

• Elisa McKee won two tickets to Cherish the Ladies

• Maria Pinder won two tickets to Dan Miller’s Cowboy Revue

Want

Pick

the flamboyant styles of Elton John as they bring to life re-imagined musical arrangements ranging from Sinatra to Buble, Disney and everything in between.

• Sounds of Silence

October 31, 2023

This tribute journeys back in time to the 1970s Greenwich Folk Village Scene, to a timeless musical era featuring the music of Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, John Denver, Cat Stevens, Don McLean and more.

• The Suits

March 14, 2024

Four dynamic gentlemen perform four genres of hit music across four decades. The group fuses smooth choreography and tight harmonies, and take audiences on a journey from the ’50s through the ’80s with recognizable hits like “Oh What A Night,” “My Girl,” “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” and more!

• ABBAcadabra

April 4, 2024

Abbacadabra continues the momentum of ABBA by playing 20 of the group’s greatest hits in full fashion and flair. You won’t

be able to sit still as songs like “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper” and “Dancing Queen” are re-created with such precision you’ll swear you were listening to the originals.

• 7000 Miles of Broadway

May 9, 2024

From Willie Nelson’s country twang to the smooth crooning sounds of Frank Sinatra and the pop favorites of Frankie Valli, 7,000 Miles to Broadway is chock full of radio and Broadway hits!

Watch previews of the acts at CommunityConcertsGrand Valley.org or call 970-243-1979 for more information

Season tickets go on sale

June 8!

Tickets start at $80.

For existing patrons: Liked your seats? Renew your tick ets between May 4 and May 20. Want better seats? You have from May 25 to June to change them.

All tickets will be purchased through the Avalon Theatre Box Office from 12-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. ■

Get your ticket to 100 Years of Hank

What do a country singer and a local theater have in common? They’re both 100 years old!

Both the Avalon Theatre and Hank Williams came on the scene in 1923, and while the theater is still going strong, Hiram (Hank) Williams passed away before he turned 30. To honor his birth and celebrate the Avalon’s centennial, the theater, in partnership with Community Concerts of the Grand Valley (CCGV), is hosting a Hank Williams tribute concert featuring Jason Petty on May 7.

Petty is a tribute artist who not only sounds like but resembles Hank. In fact, the first song Petty remembers his dad singing to him was “Hey, Good Lookin’,” one of Hank’s early hits. Williams influenced the early country music scene with hits such as “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Oh, Lonesome Me,” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” He recorded an incredible 55 singles in his short career, and most of them hit the Billboard Top 10, with 10 charting at number one. CCGV season ticket holders can pick up their free ticket at the Avalon Box Office, 645 Main St.

As we age, our bodies process protein less efficiently and need more of it to maintain muscle mass and strength, bone health and other physiological functions. Supplementing a healthy diet and lifestyle with protein powders can help slow or reduce deteriorating muscles, loss of mobility, weight gain, and improve recovery from illnesses.

Temple Tip

Try adding a handful of spinach and blueberries to a strawberry protein powder for a delicious smoothie!

At Temple Nutrition, we carry a wide variety of supplements including vegan, whey and egg white proteins available in an extensive selection of flavors including blueberry, peanut butter & jelly and even peppermint. Protein powders are also a great way to add more fruits and vegetables into your diet.

The healing power of plants

5 medicinal herbs to grow in your garden locally

Alittle-known

fact about me: I first became interested in plants not for food, but for the medicinal benefits.

I started by making my own herbal remedy first aid kit for traveling. Then having a family meant broadening my repertoire of health-promoting plants and processing them into ointments, tinctures and teas.

From native shamans, I’ve learned to work with the healthiest plants I can, which means growing crops that thrive in our local conditions. And a healthy plant makes the healthiest product—fruit, seeds and flavor as well as volatile oils, phenols and flavonoids.

In this article, I’ll share with you my top five medicinal herbs that I grow in rotations in my garden. Some I can harvest enough of to last me two to three years. Others I go through annually. I have other favorites (holy basil and catnip, for example), but these five medicinal herbs handle the top health needs in my family.

ASHWAGANDHA (Withania somnifera)

This is my heavy hitter. It’s an adaptogen that helps our body maintain homeostasis by adjusting to stress and illness. It can boost energy and really fortify the immune system and overall endocrine system. Many people even report a

boost in sexual energy after just a couple of days.

It’s in the Solanaceae family along with tomatoes and peppers, so it enjoys the same growing conditions. It makes a nice bushy plant about 18 to 24 inches tall that we grow for the root and harvest in the fall.

ASTRAGALUS (Astragalus membranaceus)

Known as the King of Tonic herbs, astragalus is loaded with antioxidants to support the immune system. It also wards off colds and upper respiratory infections. It can also lower blood pressure and helps protect the liver.

Astragalus is a legume that prefers

full sunlight and good soil texture as its roots are thinner than ashwagandha’s and are more delicate to dig up in the fall. Unfortunately, the best Astralagus phenols set after two years and the third year is the point of maximum health benefit. So if you’re set on growing astralagus, be prepared to dedicate garden space for the next two to three years.

SKULLCAP (Scutellaria lateriflora)

This herb can calm restlessness, headaches, hypertension and insomnia because it tonifies the nervous system. Additionally, it helps bring nutrients and energy to the organs and muscles throughout the body.

Skullcap is a clumping plant that’s 12 to 20 inches tall and likes consistent moisture in the soil, so mulch is a necessity. Harvest the leaves and dry them early in the season, then by mid-summer it can go to blossom and produce snapdragon-like blue violet flowers.

CALENDULA (Calendula officinalis)

WHITE HOREHOUND (Marrubium vulgare)

I was fortunate to pick up some orange calendula seeds from a friend’s garden. This plants produce a high oil content that delivers skin nutrients which makes growing these flowers worth it. Calendula is great for treating hives, eczema, diaper rash and small cuts. The petals also make a great addition to a salad and are loaded in lutein, beta carotene and Vitamin C.

Calendula is a cheery addition to the garden. We harvest the flowers the day they open and in the heat of the day when their oil content is at its peak. These healing oils readily transfer to plant-based oils for topical applications. Fill a jar with dried calendula flowers and top it off with organic extra-virgin olive oil. Place the jar in a sunny location with a brown paper bag over the top to protect the oil from the sun’s rays while warming it during the day for a more thorough extraction. Wait one month and strain it into amber bottles.

A small warning: Calendula grows as an annual but self-seeds itself robustly, so thinning calendula sprouts will be on next year’s chore list.

GROW WILD

Even though it’s a perennial, I made the commitment to horehound for its internal organ strengthening abilities. A member of the mint family, horehound can help with digestive problems and liver and gall bladder function while supporting the lungs to stimulate better breathing. It can also lessen painful menstruation periods.

Horehound’s dried leaves make a refreshing tea and it blooms dainty pink and purple flowers. For those of you keeping track of the planting phases, April 1-9 and 23-30 are optimal seed planting dates on the biodynamic calendar. (Learn more from my March 2022 article on biodynamic gardening at BeaconSeniorNews.com) ■

FREE CLASSES

SUSTAINABLE CUISINE

April 18 • 6 p.m.

Colorado Mesa University, Escalante Hall, Room 125 Bryan discusses our current food system and how consumers can support growing practices that bring us nutrient-dense food while aiding our local soil health and the planet overall.

WORM COMPOSTING

May 2 • 6 p.m.

Mesa County Libraries

Community Room

In this insightful workshop, learn how to raise and care for worms to make superior vermicompost for our gardens and compost tea.

Ambassador Blind N’ Shutter, Inc. 1048 Independent Ave., Ste. A111 Grand Junction, CO

Ambassador Blind N' Shutter Inc 1048 Independent AveSte A111 Grand Junction, CO

M-F: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sat: Closed Sun: Closed (970) 523-4566

www.ambassadorblindsgj.com

M-F: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm | Sat & Sun: Closed (970) 523-4566 | www.ambassadorblindsgj.com

Send your gardening questions to Bryan in care of Life

After 50, or email him at BCReed@ColoradoMesa.edu

Slapstick to screwball

The semantics of comedy’s universal language

Around1915, silent film director

D. W. Griffith enthusiastically announced of the new movie art form: “We’ve gone beyond Babel, beyond words. We’ve found a universal language.”

The universal language, apparently, was not merely an empathetic insight into the condition of mankind as much as it was the universality of pantomime. No matter what language one spoke in different parts of the world, all could understand pantomime. Even the title cards need not have been read to fully understand the plot in many cases.

One of Griffith’s most famous stars, Lillian Gish, affirmed in her autobiography that he believed “we were taking the first tiny steps in a new glorious medium that had been predicted in the Bible…that when it could be brought to its full power, it would bring about the millennium.”

Perhaps, but the universal impulse to laugh at somebody else’s misfortunes was probably the most likely outcome.

And so it came to pass that Harold Lloyd hid from bullies by crawling up inside laundry hanging from a clothesline.

Charlie Chaplin cooked and ate a boot.

And anybody in a pie-throwing scene took a pie in the face.

The glorious medium that Griffith had believed would bring about the millennium reflected at that time almost obsessively on the common lives of common people, but with just a little bit of exaggeration.

Griffith himself specialized in drama, not comedies, and so perhaps his view of the purpose of film was a bit more serious than director Mack Sennett, who was famous for the Keystone Kops and bathing beauties. Griffith’s hope that silent films would bring about the brotherhood of man fell short of ending warfare for all time. But he was right about the universality of silent film. He was also right predicting the success of Mack Sennett, his protégée.

The universality of silent films was lost when sound pictures came

on the scene. Even dubbing in different languages does not have the same effect of universality of meaning. Not everything translates well. For example, the title “Mrs. Miniver” (1942) was “Rosa de Abolengo” in Spanish-speaking countries.

But pantomime goes beyond mere words. In comedy films, pantomime found embellishment in slapstick.

Slapstick evolved into the purest form of film comedy—a gag requiring only a little setup, or sometimes none at all. Afterward, nothing needed to be explained.

There had been physical comedy since the Renaissance. Early 20th century vaudevillian slapstick launched the careers of some famous film comedians, but that slapstick on stage in the vaudeville theater was not so intricate, so carefully plotted, and so technically sophisticated as it became on film. With special effects, physical comedy reached its zenith on film.

In silent film, comedy could be represented successfully only in its broadest terms, and so the Keystone Kops formed a bumbling brigade that raced through the city streets, tumbling off the running boards of the un-PC “paddy wagon.”

In 10 years, Laurel and Hardy were taking a piano up a flight of cement terrace stairs (“The Music Box”, 1932), dropping it and being run over by it as they ushered slapstick into sound film. However, sound allowed slapstick to meld into “screwball,” which added another layer of nuance: it was verbal.

The dinosaur skeleton may have tumbled into a heap in “Bringing Up Baby” (1938) but the film is as much noted for its nonsense banter, which is the essence of screwball, between Katharine Hepburn

and Cary Grant. The Marx Brothers’ tomfoolery required one to understand social and political comedy, current events of the day to get the gag; it wasn’t just the boys in hot pursuit of the next pratfall.

Carole Lombard’s comic prattle in “My Man Godfrey” (1935) begins to overshadow her considerable talents at physical comedy, and all the pratfalls taken in “Sullivan’s Travels” (1941) by Joel McCrea and Veronica Lake take a back seat to Preston Sturges’ witty script and his observations on society’s ills and foibles of the day.

The script was mightier than the prop in screwball, for though something verbally witty could be just as silly as slipping on a banana peel, it required more understanding. Never again would comedy be so simple

and so universally understood. If Griffith was right about silent films being the universal language, then pantomime was its grammar. Slapstick was its exclamation point. ■

IF GRIFFITH WAS RIGHT ABOUT SILENT FILMS BEING THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE, THEN PANTOMIME WAS ITS GRAMMAR. SLAPSTICK WAS ITS EXCLAMATION POINT.

To Benefit Lung Transplant

Another “breath day” on its way

Golf tournament raises funds for organ transplant patients

Can you have an active life after an organ transplant? Mike Spradlin’s answer is a resounding “Yes!”

And to celebrate two years of not only surviving but living fully after a double lung transplant, Spradlin and his wife Sara Martz are celebrating his second “breath-day” on Saturday, April 29, by hosting the second annual NoMoO2 golf tournament at Adobe Creek Golf Club.

In April 2021, Spradlin received a double lung transplant after being diagnosed with an incurable lung disease. After the surgery at St. Joseph’s Organ Transplant Center in Phoenix, the couple discovered just how many expenses aren’t covered by insurance and were determined to help other families of transplant patients as much as they could.

Thus was born the first charity tournament in 2022.

The proceeds from the event were donated to St Joseph’s with a stipulation that none of the money be used for administrative costs. Some of the money went to purchase prepaid credit cards that families could use at the gas pumps and pharmacies, among other

expenses not covered by insurance. Last year, the couple hoped to raise $10,000, but thanks to participation, they donated over $20,000, and hope to do better this year.

Spradlin was a registered organ donor before his diagnosis and encourages everyone to consider doing so.

“You never know how close to home the need might be,” he said.

Spradlin’s own donor came from a family on the way to a soccer game when they were hit by another car. The children survived. The mother didn’t. The father, also a donor, lived just long enough for his lungs to save Spradlin’s life.

“One, three and five years are the benchmarks for a double lung transplant,” said Spradlin.

Here’s to many more golf tournaments.

Registration fees for the second annual “breath day” tournament start at $125 per person, and prizes such as a golf getaway to the Dominican Republic will be awarded. To play in or sponsor a team or hole, or donate to the big raffle, for the “breath day” tournament, visit NoMoO2Golf.corsizio.com or call 970-985-0061. ■

100 doesn’t scare me!

Why is it more difficult for me to turn 81 this year than last year when I turned 80? I think it’s because I suddenly realized I’m an octogenarian!

Funny how I don’t feel like I’m in my 80s. However, this also made me realize I missed enjoying being a septuagenarian.

That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy my 70s. For some reason, being in my eighth decade just didn’t hit the same way. I wonder how I will feel when my octogenarian days are finished and I graduate to be a nonagenarian, and then a centenarian.

Some people even live to be supercentenarians—those who are over 110 years of age. There are eight known supercentenarians living today—all women over 114. The oldest verified living person today is Maria Branyas Morera of Spain,

who is 116. The oldest known supercentenarian was Jeanne Calment of France, who lived to be 122 years 164 days. She passed away in 1997.

Being an octogenarian doesn’t mean I have to suddenly start acting like the stereotypical 80-yearold. I don’t have to sit in a rocking chair and crochet afghan blankets and bake cookies. And I certainly

don’t need to be helped across the street, thank you very much!

I’m way too busy to do all those things. I have my morning Zumba class and I play pickleball at least three times a week. I took a clogging class this winter, and I think my flamenco class starts next month.

I text, Skype and Zoom, and I recently ordered a Bluetooth speaker just last week so my friends and I can play music while we play pickleball. I have a black belt in karate and finally had to give up my skateboard because too many youngsters at the skate park kept getting in my way.

I’m planning a cruise to the Bahamas this summer and I’m thinking about training for a half-marathon this year. I need to get new tires on my mountain bike before summer arrives. Some of those trails last summer were a bit rough!

I sing karaoke on Friday nights.

You meet the nicest people when you’re all singing together! A few years ago, I won a karaoke talent contest. I still have the trophy on my bookshelf.

Volunteering at the local food bank on Mondays, the hospital gift shop on Tuesdays and the library on Fridays keeps me pretty busy. I’m looking for somewhere to volunteer on Thursdays, but I have to have Wednesdays off so I can play bridge.

My children worry about me not having enough to do socially. They think I stay home all day watching the Home Shopping Network. Don’t tell them otherwise.

Being an octogenarian isn’t so bad! A word of advice to all you septuagenarians: don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something and don’t be afraid to give new activities a shot! Eat good food, drink plenty of water, get some exercise and laugh as much as you can!

At the rate I’m going, being 100+ doesn’t scare me! ■

behind the baton

Since1970, the Valley Symphony Association (VSA) Orchestra has been bringing classical music to life on the Western Slope. In the midst of the first conductor search in almost three decades, the VSA has taken a look back on the conductors who have put their musical stamp on the organization.

While some may find it surprising that our corner of Colorado attracts so much musical talent within the ranks of our volunteer musicians, even more surprising is a particular guest conductor under whose baton briefly marshaled VSA talent early in its history.

Perhaps the VSA’s most noted conductor was Antonia Brico. Born in the Netherlands, she emigrated to the U.S. in 1908 and settled in California. By the time she left high school, she was already a noted pianist with conducting experience.

Brico attended the University of California, Berkeley, and worked as an assistant director at the San

Francisco Opera. She then attended the Berlin State Academy of Music and graduated from its master class in conducting. She was the first American to do so.

Brico went on to conduct the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Hamburg Philharmonic, and won plaudits from critics and the public. She was appointed conductor of a newly founded Women’s Symphony Orchestra in 1939, which soon became the Brico Symphony Orchestra. She was the first woman to conduct the New York Philharmonic.

She settled in Denver in 1942, founded the Bach Society and the Women’s String Ensemble, and conducted the Denver Businessmen’s Orchestra (which also became the Brico Symphony Orchestra). She was the conductor of the Denver Philharmonic, the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra, and made hundreds of guest conductor appear-

ances throughout the rest of her life, including a stop on the Western Slope in November of 1978 during the VSA’s eighth season.

OVERCOMING BARRIERS

In the 1974 documentary, “Antonia: A Portrait of the Woman”, Brico candidly described her career-long struggle with gender bias that kept her from conducting more frequently. The documentary was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Dutch director Maria Peters’ movie “De Dirigent” (“The Conductor”) about the life of Brico, starring Christanne de Bruijn, was released in 2018.

A children’s picture book, “In One Ear And Out The Other: Antonia Brico And Her Amazingly Musical Life” by Diane Worthey and illustrated by Morgana Wallace, was published in 2020. The book is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.

Brico died in 1989 in Denver at the age of 87. History Colorado holds a large collection of her personal papers. She was inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame in 1986.

CONCLUDING THE SEARCH

To an organization like the VSA, the search for a new conductor is, well, instrumental.

Last summer, before the start of the VSA’s 51st season, the search committee met for the first time. They narrowed the field to three finalists from throughout the U.S. and

Europe. Two of the three finalists, Troy Raper from Grand Junction and Charlotte Ruth Harrison from Orem, Utah, have both excited VSA audiences at the December “Christmas By Candlelight” and February “Young Composers” concerts. The last finalist, Steven Aguiló Arbues from Denver, will conduct the April 22 and 23 “Pop Stars & Superheroes” concerts.

“The transition from one conductor to another is a great opportunity for the community to evaluate its musical priorities, and choose the person to best take the VSA from where it is to where we want it to be in the future,” said Charles Latshaw, conductor search committee chair.

Part of the selection process has been encouraging and receiving audience input immediately following each performance.

“Frankly, we’ve been both surprised and thrilled by how many people are filling out the surveys,” Board President Hartland Clubb said. “It’s great to know our music lovers care.”

As an incentive for audience members to participate, a beautiful hand-painted violin will be awarded as the prize in a drawing after the final concert. The violin was painted by the VSA’s own Kaitlynn Hurford, a member of the chorus since 2018, and a professional painter who’s been developing her own painting style since graduating from college.

To learn more about VSA, including upcoming concerts, visit Valley Symphony.net or call 970765-8323. ■

Travel back in time in Winchester, Virginia

Myrecent sojourn to the town of Winchester, Virginia turned out to be a trip into a time capsule. The visit echoed that of Shawnee and other native tribes which lived for thousands of years in what today is Frederick County and, more recently, by European explorers who came as early as 1606.

This was no artificially created commercial attraction, rather, a real place where important chapters of American history were written and remain.

As I approached the small city (population about 28,000), there was little hint of the treasure trove of history that lay ahead. I passed through a phalanx of familiar chain stores and fast-food restaurants. Then, as suddenly as this mass of modernity had appeared, it disappeared. I found myself in another world—a history-rich setting which enveloped me in the past without fuss or fanfare.

A LEGACY REMAINS

What makes this immersion in the past so impressive is how it serves as a backdrop for the memories born there. There are so many references to, and touches of, the

presence of George Washington that by the time you leave town, you have new insight into the man behind the fame.

Washington’s life is closely entwined with the story of Winchester. He arrived at the tender age of 16 in 1748, four years after the town was founded, to help survey land. During the next 10 years, he went on to become commander of Virginia’s Militia regiment, planned and oversaw construction of more than 80 forts to provide protection for settlers from attack and was chosen to serve as a delegate in the House of Burgesses, representing Winchester and Frederick County.

Remnants of Fort Loudoun,

which was Washington’s headquarters from 1756 to 1758, are among numerous traces of his time in the area. So is the tiny log and stone George Washington’s Office Museum with displays including his written orders to soldiers concerning “tippling” and “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior,” which he wrote at age 14.

Other notable men and women, historic structures and mesmerizing museums add to the appeal of Winchester and its surroundings. A number of significant sites sit in the Winchester Historic District. It encompasses 1,116 buildings dating from the 18th to mid-20th centuries. They range from log buildings and early stone houses to Feder-

al-style town homes and elegant Victorian residences.

GHOSTS OF THE CIVIL WAR

The heart of the district is marked by the stately Greek Revival Frederick County Courthouse. It was completed in 1840, just in time to serve as a hospital and prison for both the Union and Confederate armies. Graffiti on some walls dates back to the military occupation of the building, which today houses a Civil War museum.

Reminders of that conflict are scattered about the area like shot-

gun pellets. That’s not surprising, because the town and county’s location as a transportation hub made it a highly contested prize. Six major battles raged there and control of Winchester changed hands more than 70 times.

Visitors may relive those skirmishes at three Civil War museums, battlefields, remains of forts and other sites. The home used by Stonewall Jackson as his headquarters during the winter of 1861-1862 contains a large collection of his personal objects and memorabilia.

After admiring Jackson’s imposing office desk and a smaller traveling version, I turned my attention to Jackson’s sword, which earned the nickname “Rusted Blade.” It turns out that Stonewall was not the most fastidious of self-groomers and his lack of care extended to the ceremonial rapier. It rusted so badly that eventually he could not withdraw it from the scabbard.

After delving deeply into the Revolutionary and Civil War history

of the Winchester area, I turned my attention to the variety of other attractions the destination offers.

Food and beverages rank high on that list.

A FOOD LOVER’S PARADISE

For many people, Frederick County, Virginia means apples. The Shenandoah Valley was the largest applegrowing region in the country in the early 1800s. While that claim is no longer valid, the fruit continues to hold an important place in the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Family-owned farms and farmers markets offer a cornucopia of locally grown fruit, vegetables and meats. Pick-your-own orchards and micro-farms sell goods ranging from fresh produce and homemade baked goods to local crafts, goat milk soap and wine.

Outstanding wine, along with other libations, adds to the taste bud treats available in the area. My sampling at the family-owned, award-winning Briede Family

Winery included its locally crafted wine-flavored ice cream. A very different experience awaited at Misty Mountain Meadworks, which concocts the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage using Virginia honey. Where there are apples

WINE & BEER TASTING EVENT

ENJOY WINE, BEER AND FOOD

Mantey Heights Care Center invites you to their OPEN HOUSE event to taste local beer and wine paired with hors d’oeuvres and cheese. You won’t want to miss out on Mantey’s Open House.

THURSDAY, APRIL 27TH 4 - 6 P.M.

2825 Patterson Rd., Grand Junction, CO

RSVP by April 15th 970-242-7356

there is cider, and the English-style hard liquid is created from locally grown fruit.

ANOTHER HOMETOWN HERO

Speaking of locally grown, Patsy Cline was a Winchester native who became a leading country and pop music singer. Sadly, her professional career (1954-1963) was cut short when she died in a plane crash. Her modest house museum depicts the hard-scrabble life she led before she became a local hero.

Heroes of various kinds have been part of the story of Winchester, Virginia. Accounts of their lives are among a number of reasons to visit there. You may be pleasantly surprised to discover similar hidden gems not far from where you live. ■

For more information about Winchester, log onto visit WinchesterVA.com.

Raising goats will put a spring in your step

Mary Story, a Boer goat breeder in Palisade, bought her first goat when she was about 8 years old.

Raised on a Holstein dairy farm in upstate New York, she was out doing chores one day when the calf man came by. In those days, the calf man was the person who visited farms to see what calves were for sale. He visited regularly, but on this particular visit, he had a baby goat with him.

Story saw that tiny white goat in the cab of the pickup and fell in love.

“She was so cute, this little baby thing!” said Story.

She was delighted to find out the goat was for sale—for $1.50. Yet, when Story checked her allowance, she only had $1.47.

When the calf man was ready to leave, little Story, with tears in her eyes, told him the problem.

“Well,” he said, mulling it over, “I think I can drop the price.”

Thrilled, Story bought the goat, whom she named Nanny.

“I was the happiest girl in the

world!” she said.

Nanny the goat planted a seed in Story’s heart, and about 30 years later—while raising four kids, taking care of foster children, and working for the school district—she once again bought a new goat. This time, it was a Toggenburg she named Daphne.

Soon Story’s ranch was teeming with dairy goats. She often gave goat milk to parents whose babies couldn’t drink regular dairy milk. In 2004, however, she changed course and started down the path that would lead her to where she is today—post-retirement, raising meat goats!

A HEALTHY PROTEIN

Considered the most productive goat breed in the world, African Boer goats were raised by Dutch farmers in southern Africa in the early 1900s but weren’t brought to America until 1993. That year, the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) was founded, and the western world was introduced to

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their delicious meat.

Typically considered healthier than beef, goat meat is naturally lean with less fat and provides about the same amount of protein as beef, pork, lamb or chicken.

“We switched to meat goats because we didn’t have to milk them twice a day and because they take care of their own offspring—much the same reason why you would switch from dairy cows to beef cows,” said Story.

Story bought her first pair of Boers in 2004, and though she sold a lot of them to other people for meat, she didn’t try it herself for nearly a decade. She loved her goats after all.

But soon she got tired of everyone asking her how goat meat tasted, so she separated a couple of wethers (neutered males) and made sure not to get attached.

Once the meat was prepared, she was delighted with how delicious it was.

“I couldn’t believe I had waited so long! If you raise the animal right and feed it correctly, that meat is delicious,” she said.

Now she regularly shares the meat with friends and family. At a time when prices are high and many cuts contain hormones and antibiotics, home-grown goat meat is a welcome alternative.

“It’s like the produce you grow in your own garden— much more nutritious and you know what went into creating that product,” said Story.

GOATS FOR 4-H

Story now has about 50 head on her Palisade ranch. In addition to their meat, she uses them to breed babies for local 4-H students, who raise them and then show and sell them at summer county fairs.

“They learn responsibility, discipline, how to care for an animal and even about healthy food and managing financial decisions,” Story said. “Working with farm animals makes a huge difference in a child’s development.”

One of Story’s clients, who is a teacher, told her the 4-H kids in her class were more focused and did better on their tests than those not in 4-H. Kids build life skills, grow confidence and develop independence and compassion.

Kids can learn some of the same skills when taking care of a dog or a cat, but Story said a 4-H goat requires much more.

In the summer, Story and her husband travel all over the state to see their goats shown in 4-H shows. No matter whether the kids win or not, it’s a huge accomplishment to raise a goat, train it, exercise it, bathe and trim it and then stand it up in the ring.

“We love encouraging the kids,” Story said. “Seeing them grow and gain confidence makes everything we do worthwhile.”

WANT TO RAISE GOATS?

Goats aren’t really pets, said Story. They’re farm animals that are happiest when they have a little space to live in and can breed and have babies. Goats are intelligent, curious and like to explore. They enjoy grazing on grass,

AND SPEND A FEW MINUTES WATCHING A BABY GOAT HOP AROUND ON SPRINGS FOR LEGS AND YOU MAY FIND YOURSELF GAINING A LITTLE SPRING IN YOUR STEP AS WELL.

Community Connections

Amber Creek,

oats and alfalfa.

Story suggested learning all you can about the breed you want to raise, particularly about vaccinations because without them, goats can get very sick.

In the end, it’s about enjoying the unique personalities these animals have.

“They’re smart,” Story said. “Sometimes they look at you and they can almost talk to you.”

Perhaps best of all—they get you out and keep you active. You may not feel like “doing chores,” as Story calls it, but when those animals depend on you, you have to go out and toss hay, fill water buckets, give shots or whatever else may be required.

Those adorable faces also just have a way of making your day, she said. Things can seem difficult, but go out and spend a few minutes watching a baby goat hop around on springs for legs and you may

ST. MARY’S Community Connections

BEACONSENIORNEWS.COM | APRIL 2023 | 33 BEACON SENIOR NEWS

Please

The greatness of servants

“Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45

SHAREFESTWEEKEND SHAREFESTWEEKEND

April 24&25, 2010

APRIL 29-30, 2023

VOLUNTEER TO SERVE YOUR NEIGHBORS.

Deadline to submit a project request is April 21.

ShareFest is an annual event bringing the churches in the greater Mesa County area together to visibly demonstrate the love of Christ through united prayer, a day of serving in the community, sharing service projects, food, and celebrating together God’s goodness.

Jesus does not want his church on earth to be a rudderless ship. That’s why he gave it leaders, like the 12 apostles. In the book of Hebrews, we are urged to obey our spiritual leaders, but that does not mean he wants us to take our model for leadership in his kingdom from the world around us.

“The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them.”

The disciples understood this all too well. The Jews lived under the rule of the Gentile Romans, who didn’t work to win their trust or prove their capable and efficient administration. They simply invaded and took over because of their superior military might.

come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

April 24&25, 2010

Jesus is the very Son of God. Yet when he came into our world, he did not throw his weight around. He didn’t use his divine power to control everything that everyone else was doing. He didn’t force people to agree with him or become his disciples. He didn’t expect people to wait on him hand and foot.

He served. He healed. He taught. He loved. He went without sleep and food. He gave away much of the money he received. He won our trust. He proved his love. Then he gave his life as a ransom for many. ■

Email: gjsharefest@gmail.com

Website: www.gjsharefest.com

Our world sees that as a kind of “greatness,” doesn’t it? Think about the names of world leaders who have had “the great” added to their names: Alexander the Great, Herod the Great, Charlemagne (Charles the Great), Peter the Great. Generally, these were men of blood and war who expanded their influence by forcing their will on others. Their greatness came by way of power.

“Not so with you.”

Greatness with God’s people is not about having the power to force your will and get your way.

“Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.”

Do you want to be great in God’s eyes and being an important part of the work of his kingdom? Then be a slave to all by taking care of the needs of others. This follows the path to truly godly greatness, which comes not by power, but by service.

“For even the Son of Man did not

Nourish your faith in between Sundays by reading more of John’s writings at BitsOfBread.org.

BE A SERVANT

On ShareFest weekend April 29 & 30, local churches and residents come together to show Christ’s love in tangible ways. Each year, volunteers handle between 250 and 300 projects in one weekend, cleaning up yards, picking up trash, washing windows and hooking up coolers for Mesa County seniors. If you would like to submit a request for help or would like to volunteer, call 970-778-4880 or sign up at GJShareFest.com

How became the most powerful company on the internet

Somemonths, I write about topics that I feel are important, even though they may only apply to a minority of readers. But this month I have chosen a tech topic that I feel will appeal to most readers over 50: Google.

Alphabet (Google’s mother company) is actually the second-largest internet superpower, but it is by far the most powerful. Amazon is the largest, but everything they do is either well known or is too boring to write about.

Google’s mission is to “organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” That mission is achieved through products and services that go vastly beyond the basic search engine.

Google became a superpower by creating algorithms that analyzed how information on the internet is connected. Compared to other search engines, Google hardly used a website’s data to determine where it ranked in the search results. Instead, it looked at all of the other websites to determine that rank.

In other words, a search for the word “cancer” typically lists American Cancer Society as the top result. There might be hundreds of sites that mention cancer more than American Cancer Society, and there may be cancer sites that offer more specific information. Ameri-

can Cancer Society ranks first because any website that mentioned cancer likely has a link to American Cancer Society.

Google’s goal was to find the most relevant website, not the most popular website or the site with the most words. Once Google had developed the search algorithm, they began to apply it to specific types of digital information.

Here are a few helpful tools that you may not know about, and a few that you do but may not realize are owned by Google.

Android

When Google announced that they were going to compete in the smartphone market, everyone asked why a search engine company would be interested in phones. Now they know.

Google Books (Books.Google.com)

Google has archived every page of 40 million books and made them searchable. This was extremely controversial at first, but Google pulled it off by preventing people from reading the books page by page. If you want to read the entire book, you can click on the link and buy it, and Google gets money from the bookseller for the successful lead connection.

Google Docs (Docs.Google.com)

One of Google’s most competitive

moves was to create a series of online products to compete with Microsoft Office. Google Docs is a powerful word processor, Sheets is a spreadsheet program, Slides allows you to design PowerPoint-compatible presentations, and Forms is a great tool for creating online surveys and other forms for gathering, organizing and tracking data.

Google Voice (Voice.Google.com)

Have you ever wanted a phone number that you could give to people who you don’t want to have your cell number? Have you started a new business and wanted a separate phone number? Google Voice is the solution. This free service gives you a phone number and virtual phone line that can be forwarded to any phone number you choose. Or you can simply use it as a voicemail system and have all messages routed to your email or text messaging.

Google News (News.Google.com)

As a journalist, I believe in being as objective as possible with my news consumption. When something important is happening in the world, I like to read about it from a

TALKING DIGITAL

variety of sources because it’s impossible for a single outlet to filter out all bias. Google News aggregates, organizes and links news from over 20,000 publishers.

Google Keep (Keep.Google.com)

If you are a sticky note person, Google Keep is a lifesaver. Keep is an online service, but it’s also an app for your computer or smartphone. You can use it to record notes, voice memos, photos, reminders, lists and all sorts of other information in one place. Every note or item you put into it can be tagged, searched and even linked to other Google services.

Google Earth (Earth.Google.com)

If you love geography, Google Earth may suck hours of your life away, but you will probably learn a lot in the process. This virtual globe allows you to search, zoom in and out, and analyze geography in a variety of ways. Earth also allows you to view Mars and the moon. Each of the services mentioned can be found by searching for them at Yahoo.com… kidding!

One last tip: If you want to know what Google knows about you, head on over to admin.google.com and login with your Gmail username and password. ■

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

Want more 2023 to give

BEACON Guides Calling all backyard gardeners to Grow & Give

Theworst of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us. Yet food insecurity is still an issue in Western Colorado.

This means now is the best time ever to start your own garden—and donate some of the extra produce to those who need it!

“Our food pantries are serving record high numbers,” said Amanda McQuade, Community Food Systems Coordinator with Colorado State University (CSU) Western Colorado Research Center.

According to Food Bank of the Rockies’ 2022 report, soaring inflation has driven up the cost of basic necessities, forcing more people to seek food assistance.

“Part of it is inflation,” McQuade agreed, “part of it is that for some people their wages haven’t ever really bounced back up or haven’t increased. And then the other part of it is that SNAP benefits are going down to pre-pandemic levels.”

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) emergency allotments came to an end in February. The temporary benefits, which were put into place during the pandemic, ended with the Consolidated Appropriations Act recently passed by Congress. As of March 2023, all SNAP households’ benefits returned to normal amounts—which today, often falls short of what is needed to feed hungry families.

All this is going to make people

lean in more heavily to food pantries.

“When you have a cash crunch, you reduce your grocery budget,” McQuade said. “It’s just what happens.”

Seniors can make a difference. According to Mollie Freilicher, Horticulture & Natural Resources Area Specialist for the CSU Extension Tri-River Area, gardeners of all ages and abilities are badly needed to join the Grow & Give program.

“We have a lot of people who can grow more food than they need,” Freilicher said. “So having a program that can connect them with organizations or even neighbors who need food is especially important.”

WHAT IS GROW & GIVE?

A modern version of the victory gardens that were popular during World War II, the local Grow & Give program took off in 2020 during the pandemic. Many people turned to gardening that year, and the CSU Extension staff wanted to connect growing and giving resources for Coloradans.

“There was a huge concern about food security,” McQuade said.

As they had already developed educational programs around food and health (including the Master Gardener program), it was a natural step to move into local gardening and donation.

Grow & Give connects backyard

and community gardens to food donation sites around the state, helping local gardeners gain access to those organizations that are thrilled to get fresh produce. Last year, the program inspired over 32,000 pounds of donated food across the state. More than 800 pounds were donated in Mesa County alone.

One of the nice things about Grow & Give is that anyone can get involved. There is no minimum donation amount, and with every donation you register, you help tell the story of what a difference the program is making locally.

“Anybody can participate,” said Freilicher. “You don’t have to have ever gardened before, and you don’t have to have a huge garden.”

Analissa Flores Sarno, a Colorado Master Gardener in Mesa County, joined the program in 2020 while she was completing her Ph.D. in microbiology. Since she started with the Grow & Give program, she’s donated different varieties of peppers, tomatoes and flower bouquets.

AS OF MARCH 2023, ALL SNAP HOUSEHOLDS RETURNED TO NORMAL AMOUNTS—WHICH TODAY, OFTEN FALLS SHORT OF WHAT IS NEEDED

“Being able to share with those who do not have time or space for a garden and provide them with local, fresh, sustainable produce is very rewarding,” said Sarno. Especially when people are willing to try a new veggie or variety for the first time.

McQuade agreed. “When people see that somebody has cared enough to share their heirloom tomatoes, it just makes people feel good. The food pantry is proud to give it. The people are proud to get it. It’s a real double win.”

GET INVOLVED

Grow & Give provides helpful guidelines as to what types of produce work best for donations. For growers who may not have any experience with food pantries, McQuade assures them they don’t need to

worry about the red tape.

“The liability is held with the food pantry,” she said. “It doesn’t go on to the giver.”

Signing up is a quick process. From GrowGive.Extension.Colo State.edu, click “Join Us!” and fill out the form. If you don’t have access to a computer, call 970-2441834 to sign up.

The Grow & Give website is filled with tips on general gardening, growing veggies and fruit, dealing with weeds and insects, and more.

“Many of my mistakes were remedied or avoided by referencing the gardening materials…saving me time and money,” Sarno said.

Those who register get the added benefit of an email newsletter throughout the gardening season. It includes helpful gardening information and resources and notifies

members of upcoming webinars and classes. A new opt-in program will provide emailed updates to members showing the amount of their donations. Members can then use that information as a way to keep track of their garden’s productivity.

Gardeners can even ask for a master gardener’s help.

“We’re always looking for more people to participate because it’s helping a need in the community but it’s also giving people an outlet for donating something they might otherwise not,” said Freilicher.

Donation sites are abundant throughout Mesa, Montrose and Delta counties. Call your local extension office for more information or see the map at GrowGive.Exten sion.ColoState.edu/Give/Map/ ■

Grand Junction Area Extension 970-244-1834

Delta Extension Office: 970-874-2195

Montrose Extension Office: 970-249-3935

Get a free memory screening and more brain healthy tips

Courtesy of Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

It’s never too soon to practice healthy aging; the things we do to keep body and heart healthy.

“Eating right, exercising the body and mind, getting proper sleep and being socially active all contribute to healthy aging and good brain health,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). “And it can potentially reduce the risk of developing a dementia-related illness.”

To help individuals be proactive about protecting their brain health, the AFA provides these 10 steps for successful aging.

• Eat well. In general, foods that are heart healthy are also brain healthy. Adopt a low-fat diet high in fruits and veggies, like strawberries, blueberries and broccoli. Limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt and sugar. Take daily vitamins.

• Stay active. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and can also help improve mood and overall wellbeing. Brisk walking benefits brain health, while aerobics can boost your heart rate, and weight training builds strength and flexibility.

• Learn new things. Challenge your brain by starting a new hobby like playing pickleball, learning to speak a foreign language, trying a cooking class, or something you have not done before. Even something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand stimulates the brain by forcing it to think outside of its normal routine.

• Get enough sleep. Getting a consistent sleep every night is key; at least seven to nine hours is ideal. Having a good sleep environment is also helpful. Insomnia or sleep apnea can have serious physical

effects and negatively affect memory and thinking.

• Mind your meds. Medication can affect everyone differently, especially as you age. When getting a new medication or something you have not taken in a while (whether over the counter or prescription), talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Stop smoking and limit alcohol. Smoking can increase the risk of other serious illnesses, while too much alcohol can impair judgment and cause accidents, including falls.

• Stay connected. Maintaining an active social life is very important for brain health, cognitive stimulation and mood. Invite friends and family over for a meal, board games, or just to hang out. Engaging in your community and participating in group activities is also beneficial.

• Know your blood pressure

Blood pressure can impact your cognitive functioning. Visit your physician regularly to check your blood pressure and make sure it is in normal range.

• See your doctor. Checkups and health screenings are key to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, all of which can impact brain health. Speak with your physician about any concerns or questions you have about your health.

• Get a memory screening. Our brains need regular checkups, just as other parts of our bodies do. Memory screenings are quick, noninvasive exams for our brains. AFA offers free virtual memory screenings every weekday—visit alzfdn.org or call 866-232-8484 to learn more about getting a free virtual memory screening. You can also talk to your doctor about getting a screening as part of your annual wellness exam. ■

Montrose’s Elk Ridge Health is all about caring

Exciting things are happening at Elk Ridge Health and Rehabilitation Center.

The skilled nursing and rehab facility, located just minutes away from Montrose Regional Health at 1043 Ridge St., was purchased by Beecan Health Colorado in 2021. It was recently announced that Beecan will soon merge with Vivage Senior Living to offer a more integrated network of care, greater access to health care solutions and new program options.

“People are starting to notice a change,” explained CEO/Administrator Anneliese Muhlbauer, who joined Elk Ridge last fall. “My intent is to continue to improve staff and resident care. I am very passionate about it.”

Muhlbauer’s passion is felt by staff and residents alike. Upon discharge, one gentleman comment-

ed, “The staff was fantastic from the young man bringing coffee in the morning to the administrator. They all work together, know what is going on and take time to show they care.”

The man, who wished to remain anonymous, remarked on the friendliness of the staff as he underwent physical, occupational and speech therapy.

“They know exactly what’s wrong and how to fix it,” he said.

In addition to short-term and long-term skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services, Michelle Salstrand, Beecan Health’s Western Slope Director of Operations, said the facility is focusing on rebuilding a dedicated skilled unit. The first fully refurbished residential wing is nearing completion and Muhlbauer is planning an open house where families and community members can tour the facility.

Elk Ridge also offers respite services, and out-patient therapy with advanced medical and therapy equipment. Muhlbauer said the new restorative program offers personalized one-on-one mobility and range of motion therapy for patients who do not quality for full physical therapy.

More private rooms and enhanced common spaces help residents relax and engage. Planned activities seven days a week include, but aren’t limited to, crafts, games

and bingo, plus outings to farmers markets, museums, restaurants, movies and more. Spiritual services are also available.

Muhlbauer hopes to partner with various community programs that will further enhance residents’ quality of life. Recently, residents received free haircuts from students in Technical College of the Rockies’ cosmetology/barber program.

To learn more about Elk Ridge, call 970-240-9683 or visit ElkRidgeHRC.com. ■

Invest cautiously and never panic

In April 2020, a relative received the quarterly statement for her retirement account. She gasped at the numbers. The value of the stocks she and her husband owned had plummeted, leaving them feeling poor and looking to economize. When our own quarterly statement arrived soon after (for a Roth IRA), I gulped at the nearly 25% loss in value.

The best advice, then and now, is that unless you need the money immediately, or are required to take some of the money—as happens in traditional, non-Roth, IRAs when you reach a certain age—then just shrug it off. The stock market will recover, eventually.

The worst thing to do is react to every upward or downward market movement. In the long run, the huge gains or colossal losses we live through become mere blips in the bar graphs of history. Time is on your side, especially if you haven’t retired yet.

As for our Roth IRA, our account regained some of its value in the second quarter, some more in the third, and the fourth-quarter statement showed the account had regained all its lost value, plus it had increased more than 10%

additional. So, it was worth more than before the first-quarter 2020 market plunge.

As you may have guessed, that first-quarter 2020 plunge was a reaction to the pandemic. The brave responded to that plunge by investing even more money. They did quite well. Most of us, though, don’t have extra money lying around to invest when the market nosedives. But as long as we don’t panic or bail out, we should be good. Those who cashed in their devalued holdings are now much poorer.

All this assumes your investment is in a diversified fund. If your money is primarily in one or two specific stocks, there will be more risk. I’m not opposed to buying specific stocks. I’ve done so a few times. But you have to be careful.

Choosing a stock is a form of gambling. You can increase the odds a bit, make your investment more likely to prosper, but it will still be a gamble.

I’m not here to promote particular stocks. But certain industries (such as power companies) are generally stable and aren’t likely to go suddenly bankrupt. Long-established, long-term-profitable players such as AT&T, Exxon, Johnson & Johnson and Proctor & Gamble are

good examples of this.

Proctor & Gamble shields itself from collapse by not being in one particular business. It instead owns companies in scores. For instance, Tide, Gain, Mr. Clean, Oral-B, Tampax, Pepto-Bismol, Scope, Crest, Ivory, Head & Shoulders, Gillette, Charmin and Pampers are all fully owned by Proctor & Gamble. I’ve never owned their stock, but it’s a diversified fund in itself, because there’s no way all its companies will go bankrupt.

If you buy a stock, don’t get overconfident.

There used to be an expression, “As General Motors goes, so goes the nation.”

It was a reliable stock, but during the Great Recession, General Motors found itself floundering. I was working in the stock industry then, and advised anyone who would listen to sell their GM stock, that the company would go bankrupt, leaving the stock worthless.

My supervisor didn’t believe me. When I offered to wager on it, he declined, knowing my bizarre predictions had come true too often. GM tried to sell off some of its brands (it sold Saab) but couldn’t find buyers for Hummer, Pontiac, or Saturn, and pulled the plug on those companies.

Then one day its stock went up a good deal in value. That was in response to its signing a longterm labor deal with its unionized workers.

“You see?” my supervisor said. “It’s going back up now. It’s not going bankrupt.”

I shook my head. “GM just signed a labor deal they can’t afford to honor. It may buy them some time,

but they’re still going bankrupt. They can’t pay their workers what they just promised to pay them.”

And that’s what happened. Bankruptcy in 2009. The stock became worthless. GM emerged from bankruptcy and from the Great Recession in a stronger position, and with newly issued stock of some value. But this newly issued stock was in the “new” GM. Any shares of stock in the “old” GM were worthless. Investors were wiped out.

The GM lesson is that even seemingly stable companies with great track records might quickly vanish or become mere shells of their former selves (such as Polaroid and Eastman Kodak).

Another lesson: Avoid companies that have never made a profit (all those dot-com stocks that went belly-up) and companies that can’t clearly explain what they do (Enron). Even power companies occasionally go bankrupt (Pacific Gas & Electric - twice!) or disappear from the scene (Long Island Lighting Company).

Munching a banana at work, I realized no computer could make a banana. So, I bought a thousand dollars’ worth of stock in Chiquita. No gamble there, right? Bananas won’t be replaced with e-bananas or digital bananas, that’s for sure. What could be safer than bananas?

Yet, Chiquita got caught in a scandal (involving paying protection money to paramilitary thugs in South America) and as a result began its bankruptcy spiral. Stockholders got back a few pennies per dollar for their stock, but they still lost out. Lesson learned. There is no such thing as a guaranteed-safe stock. ■

Look

Fall Prevention Class

How to help prevent fall-related injuries

Please join us for a FREE educational class on how to prevent falls & injury, taught by a Community Hospital Physical Therapist

Topics Featured:

• Home Safety

• Community Resources

• Physical Activities

• Fall Prevention

• Physical Therapy Recommendations

• Assistive Devices

• Maintaining Independence

Upcoming Classes:

April 19, 2023

May 17, 2023

2023 Class Location: Community Hospital • 2351 G Road Legacy Conference Rooms 1 & 2 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

For more information regarding classes: Call (970) 644-3103

Find true meaning in a material world

I’m no different than anyone else who has had the privilege of living into his or her senior years. I have lived through heavenly joy and heartbreak hell. For one thing, I’ve cried enough tears of happiness and sadness to fill a small swimming pool.

The end of the world was supposed to happen three times during my life. The first time was when President Kennedy was shot down. I remember how scared I was when I left school that afternoon and saw teachers, grown men and women weeping openly in the parking lot.

The second time was when America was attacked on 9/11. I took a walk that evening and when a young girl walking her dog stopped me and asked, “Mister, is the world going to end?” I told her with absolutely no conviction, “No, everything will be fine.”

The third time was when a friend said the COVID-19 pandemic was

predicted in the Bible and we are at the end of days. I thought, well, maybe he’s right.

But life went on, at least for those of you reading this column.

I have no fear of my own death, but it’s funny how priorities change when you get to your golden years. Money has become of less importance. Time has no price tag. Love is not a limited-time offer.

At my age, I don’t get invited to weddings anymore, well, because people my age aren’t getting married anymore. Weddings have been replaced by funerals. Within a span of just a few years, I’ve lost several very good friends and that word, “lost” also describes how I often feel when I’m living my life without them.

I find now that mindfulness of moments with friends and family matters much more than the size of bank accounts. I used to think the more money I had the happier I would be.

Recently, I read these words from a billionaire dying from pancreatic cancer: “In other eyes, my life is the essence of success, but aside from work, I have a little joy, and in the end, wealth is just a fact

of life to which I am accustomed. At this moment, lying on the bed, sick and remembering all my life, I realize that all my recognition and wealth that I have is meaningless in the face of imminent death. You can hire someone to drive a car for you, make money for you—but you cannot rent someone to carry the disease for you. One can find material things, but there is one thing that cannot be found when it is lost and that is life.”

The designer watch you pay so much money for tells the same time as the one you can buy at a supermarket. The exotic car you bought drives the same roads as a lemon. In the end, the things you accumulate don’t matter.

The dying teach us about living. They speak their regrets and disappointments for us to take notice. Death is the great equalizer. In his poem, “Thanatopsis,” William Cullen Bryant wrote about the earth

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being the grand house of humanity after we depart this world.

“Thou shalt lie down/with patriarchs of the infant world—with kings,/The powerful of the earth— the wise, the good,/ Fair forms, and hoary seers of ages past,/ All in one mighty sepulchre.”

Now, when I get tired and upset about circumstances that worry me, I turn to these poignant words from life coach Angel Chernoff.

“Happiness is letting go of what you assume your life is supposed to be right now and sincerely appreciating it for everything it is.” ■

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish):

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I FIND NOW THAT MINDFULNESS OF MOMENTS WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY MATTERS MUCH MORE THAN THE SIZE OF BANK ACCOUNTS. I USED TO THINK THE MORE MONEY I HAD THE HAPPIER I WOULD BE.

CALENDAR MeSa County

April 1-9

Restaurant Week

Support and sample local restaurants by picking up a restaurant passport at any participating eatery or the Downtown Grand Junction office. Many restaurants offer special deals and meals. Collect stamps by dining and turn in your completed passport by April 9 for the chance to win one of many prizes. Free | downtowngj.org/restau rantweek | 970-245-9697

April 5

New-to-Medicare 101

Learn when and how to sign up for Medicare, what Part A and Part B cover, how to choose the best health and drug plan and more in this free seminar at Mesa County RSVP SHIP. Seating is limited. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 422 White Ave. | Free | mesacountyrsvp.org | 970-24-9839

April 7, 14 & 21

Free Self-Filing Tax Assistance

Don’t miss a chance to claim a tax refund that could give you tax money back! A certified tax volunteer will help you self-file your taxes online if your household earned less

than $73,000 in 2022. Mesa County Libraries’ computer lab will be available. Help is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

12:30-2:30 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St. | Free | mesacountylibraries.org | 970-244-4442

April 7

Taste of the Grand Valley

This samples and sips festival raises funds for United Way of Mesa County. This year’s fundraiser is held outdoors in the parking lot on the 500 block of Colorado Ave. and will feature samples from eight local food trucks and sips from a variety of breweries and wineries with live music and other activities.

3-7 p.m. | 530 Colorado Ave. | $20 | tasteofthegv.com

April 8

Kitten Shower

Help Roice-Hurst Humane Society prepare for the influx of kittens they will care for this season by bringing in your tax-deductible donations.

April 8

While there, enjoy a shelter tour, learn about fostering and meet some adorable kittens. Visit the website or bit.ly/rhhsfoster for a current wish list of needed items.

12-4 p.m. | 362 28 Road | rhhumane society.org | 970-434-7337

April 13

Casino Night

Roll the dice and test your luck at Solstice Senior Living at Grand Valley’s casino night fundraiser. While there, check out the newly renovated facility. Proceeds benefit Bikers Against Child Abuse International. RSVPs are appreciated.

4-7 p.m. | 3260 N. 12th St. | 970-256-0006

Straight from the Met: Michelle DeYoung

Three-time Grammy award winning metropolitan opera star and mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung will present an afternoon of song and chamber music at CMU’s Love Recital Hall. DeYoung will be joined by Jeremy Reger on the piano and Andrew Krimm on the viola, presenting works by Brahms, Frank Bridge and other operatic classics.

3-5 p.m. | 1221 N. 12th St. | $17 | westernslopeconcertseries.org | 970-234-5661

April 13

How AI Will Shape Our Future

Tom Sawyer, a retired software technologist, inventor and author, provides an overview of artificial intelligence, its history and development, current state and usages, and future scenarios in this free presentation at Mesa County Libraries’ Central Library.

12-1 p.m. | 443 N. 6th St. | Free | mesacountylibraries.org | 970-244-4442

April 13

Colorado Hookless Cactus

Anna Lincoln, an ecologist from the Bureau of Land Management, gives a free presentation on a lovely native cacti: the hookless cactus. There will also be a plant raffle and a short business meeting of the Chile Cactus & Succulent Society to follow at the Unitarian Universalist Church. Guests are welcome.

6:30-8:30 p.m. | 536 Ouray Ave. | Free | chinlecactusclub.org | 970-773-7637

April 15

Springfest Luncheon & Fashion Show

Springfest benefits Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra and its music education programs with a spring-inspired luncheon with a fashion show, music and prizes at Two Rivers Winery & Chateau.

11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 2087 Broadway Ave. | $100 | gjso.org/support/ guild | 970-243-6787

April 15

Uncover Affirmations

Enhance your life with this fun workshop led by Reverend Jyoti of Center for Spiritual Living that will help you use affirmations in new ways.

1-4 p.m. | 730 25 Road | $20 | cslgj. org | 303-668-0411

April 16

Centennial Band: March Into Spring

Grand Junction Centennial Band presents this free concert at the Avalon Theatre featuring concert band classics, classic marches, movie themes and more.

3-5 p.m. | 645 Main St. | Free | gjcen tennialband.org

April 16

Music, the Bright Side of Life

Bookcliff Barbershop Harmony Chorus’ spring show features the music from its chorus and quartets, Sweet Adeline’s Grand Mesa Chorus, choirs from CMU and Grand Junction High School, and 2022 scholarship winner,Miriam Elkins at CMU’s Love Recital Hall.

3 p.m. | 1221 N. 12th St. | $15 | bookcliffchorus.wordpress.com | 970-257-7664

April 18

Sustainable Cuisine

BEACON garden columnist and CMU Instructor Bryan Reed talks about our current food system and how consumers have choices of supporting growing practices that bring us nutrient-dense food and aids in local soil health. This free presentation is

at CMU’s Escalante Hall, room 125.

6 p.m. | 1020 Elm Ave. | Free | bcreed@coloradomesa.edu

April 18

Colorado Canyons’ Volunteer Training

Learn about stewardship and education opportunities available with Colorado Canyons Association at KAFM Radio.

5:30-7:30 p.m. | 1310 Ute Ave. | Free | coloradocanyonsassociation.org | 970-263-7902

April 19

Fall Prevention Class

Learn how to prevent fall-related injuries in this free class taught by a physical therapist at Community Hospital. Topics include: home safety, community resources, physical

April 21-22

Western Slope Coin Show

Browse over 50 tables featuring a variety of U.S. and foreign currency and coins, plus coin collecting supplies at Western Slope Coin Club and American Eagle Coins’ spring coin show at the Clarion Inn.

10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday | 755 Horizon Drive | Free | 970-640-3765

activities, assistive devices, maintaining independence and more.

1-2 p.m. | 2351 G Road | Free | 970-644-3103

April 20

Reading Yesterday’s News

Learn about the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection, which holds information about past people, places and events that isn’t often recorded in any other source at the Ordinary Fellow Winery in Palisade.

6 p.m. | 202 Peach Ave., Palisade | Free | 970-464-2177 | historic palisade.com

April 25

Beginnings

Community Concerts of the Grand Valley presents Beginnings, the ultimate Chicago tribute band. Hear

April 27

Wine & Beer Tasting

Savor local wine and beer paired with hors d’oeuvres and cheese at Mantey Heights Care Center’s open house. RSVP by April 15.

4-6 p.m. | 2825 Patterson Road | 970-242-7356

all of the hits. Buy tickets online at Ticketmaster or at the Avalon Theatre Box Office.

7:30 p.m. | 645 Main St. | $35 | communityconcertsgrandvalley.org | 970-263-5757

April 28

AARP Driver Safety Course

Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws at the AARP Driver Safety course in Grand Junction. Call to register and for location.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. | $20 (AARP members), $25 (non-members) | 970-243-2531

April 29

Mike’s “Breath Day” Golf Tournament

Come par-tee at Adobe Creek Golf Course as double lung transplant survivor Mike Spradlin hosts his second annual charity golf tournament to benefit lung transplant recipients. Register online.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 876 18 ½ Road, Fruita | $125+ | nomoO2golf.cor sizio.com | smartz@rcgwest.com | 970-985-0061 ■

CLUBS MeSa County

American Association of University Women programs advocate for women and girls.

2nd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 970-241-9684

Art Quilt Association meets at Redlands Community Center.

3rd Saturdays | 9:30-11 a.m. | theartquiltassociation.com

Bookcliff Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at First Baptist Church, 720 Grand Ave. Tuesdays | 7-9 p.m. | 970-257-7664

Bookcliff Duplicate Bridge Club plays at 636 31 Road. Call ahead. Fridays | 12:30 p.m. | 970-244-9989

Chatfield Country Kickers meets for square and round dancing at VFW #3981, 503 Florence Road.

1st & 3rd Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | 970-434-0868

Chinle Cactus Club meets at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 536 Ouray Ave.

2nd Thursdays | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 970-773-7637

Citizens’ Climate Lobby advocates for climate change solutions. 970-250-4832 | grandjunction@ citizensclimatelobby.org

Clifton Book Club discusses book selections at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | mesacountylibraries.org

Colorado Archaeological Society meets monthly. Call for location.

4th Wednesday | 4:30 p.m. | 970-250-7402

Colorado West Quilters’ Guild meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2452522

Commemorative Air Force, Rocky Mountain Wing, honors military aviation at air shows and its museum at 780 Heritage Way, Gate 10. Call ahead.

2nd Saturday | 10 a.m. | 970-2560693 | rmwcaf.org

Crafting Club meets at Clifton Library, 590 32 Road.

3rd Tuesday | 2-3 p.m. | 970-434-6936

Cribbage Lite plays at IHOP near Mesa Mall, 2420 Hwy 6 & 50. Tuesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 970-201-7823

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Garfield Chapter, celebrates patriotism and champions education. Club meets monthly. 970-250-7401

Desert Vista Garden Club is open to all women. Call for location.

1st Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 303-6531941

Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Desert West Chapter, meets at Appleton Christian Church.

1st Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. | 970-8582002

Explorer’s Bible Study, open to all women, meets at Redlands Community Church, 2327 S. Broadway. Wednesdays | 9:30-11:15 a.m. | 970-260-0880

Fleet Reserve Association meets at VFW #3981, 503 Florence Road. Former, retired and active sea service, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard welcome.

2nd Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 970-4340868

Friendship Force promotes travel and cultural understanding through home stays. Club meets at New Covenant Baptist Church, 3196 F Road.

3rd Saturday | 2 p.m. | 214-5362250 | ffwcolo.com

Grand Junction Brush & Palette meets at The Art Center, 1803 N. 7th St.

3rd Thursday | 1 p.m. | brushand paletteclub.org

Grand Junction Gem & Mineral Club meets at 2328 Monument Road.

2nd Thursday & 4th Thursday | 7 p.m. | grandjunctionrockclub.org

Grand Junction Modeleers flying club meets at 427 Sherman Drive.

2nd Tuesday | 6 p.m. | gjmodeleers. com

Grand Junction Petroleum & Mining Club meets at Grand Junction Convention Center.

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

Grand Junction Stamp Club

meets at White Star Electric, 803 Winters Ave.

2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-9861502

Grand Junction Symphony Guild meets at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 271/2 Road.

4th Friday | 9:30 a.m. | sheri@mei. net

Grand Junction Toastmasters promotes communication and leadership skills.

Tuesdays at 6:45 a.m. | Thursdays at 12 p.m. | 970-241-1900

Grand Slam Bridge Club plays at Redlands Community Center. Beginners welcome.

Mondays | 12:15 p.m. | 970-2168807 | sharon7nt@gmail.com

Grand Valley Kennel Club meets at Pawsitive Directions, 571 32 Road, Clifton.

3rd Monday | 6:30 p.m. | grand valleykennelclub.org | 970-256-1938

protect wilderness and wild lands. 970-986-8129 | marymccutchan4@ gmail.com

Guitar Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St. Mondays | 6 p.m. | revkevgj@gmail. com | 970-778-5473

Guys’ Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St. 1st Tuesday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-361-7478 or 970-270-6184

Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction meets at the Warehouse, 2565 American Way.

Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 970-260-8664

Knights of Columbus #1062 meets at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 230 N. 3rd St.

2nd Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-2706162

Knights of Columbus #13621 meets at Immaculate Heart of Mary, 790 261/2 Road.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-640-3263

Mesa County Genealogical Society meets at various locations. 303-549-4398 | mesacounty genealogy.org

Grand Valley Pets Alive reduces the homeless population of dogs and cats. Volunteers meet at Church of the Nativity, 2175 Broadway.

3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-462-7554 | grandvalleypets alive.org

Grand Valley Valor Quilters meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50. 3rd Monday | 9:30 a.m. | 970-2700804 | valorquilters@gmail.com

Grand Valley Woodcarvers meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way.

4th Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 970-2458817 or 970-257-1549

Grand Valley Woodturners meets at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way.

2nd Tuesday | 7 p.m. | 970-245-8817 or 970-856-3632

Great Old Broads for Wilderness inspires activism to preserve and

Mesa Fiber Arts Guild meets monthly at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St. 4th Saturday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | mesafiberartsguild.org

Military Officers Association of America meets quarterly at DoubleTree by Hilton, 743 Horizon Dr. 970-241-8714

Native American Cultural Program meets at First United Methodist Church, 522 White Ave. 2nd Tuesdays | 3:30 p.m. | 970-4334763

Newcomers Club welcomes locals both old and new with friendship and fun activities at Grand Valley Event Center, 2400 Consistory Ct. 2nd Wednesday | 9:30 a.m. | 970-549-0440 | gjnewcomers.org

Not Going Quietly, a space of empowerment and grace for adults 60+, meets at Koinonia, 730 25 Road. 2nd & 4th Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-433-7799 | cslgj.org

Orchard Mesa Lions Club meets at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 Hwy 50. 1st & 3rd Monday | 7 p.m. | 970-208-7228

Questers, Grand Mesa Peaches, hosts speakers on collecting and restoring antiques.

970-256-9580

Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Wednesdays | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760

Veterans of Foreign Wars #3981 meets at 503 Florence Road.

1st Wednesday | 5:30 p.m. | 970-778-8242

Women’s Giving Club meets at Springhill Suites, 236 Main St.

1st Monday in February, May, August, November | 5:15 p.m. | 970-260-6140

Western Colorado Amateur

Radio Club meets at First Christian Church, 1326 N. 1st St.

OF THE Month Question

Compiled by Jan Weeks

What’s the best practical joke you ever played?

Jyoti DeVernie - Grand Junction

“I did my sister’s taxes one year using TurboTax and made it look like she was going to get a huge refund. She was so excited! Then I told her ‘April Fools!’ Of course, I changed the return to show the right refund before she sent it in.”

River City Singles meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 25 1/2 Road, with fun activities for singles over 50. Fridays | 4:30 p.m. | 720-278-8537

Rotary Club of Grand Junction meets at Bookcliff Country Club, 2730 G Road.

Wednesdays | 12-1:15 p.m. | 970-234-5030

SOS: Singles Over 65 is a gender-balanced social club for single seniors! Must join online. meetup.com/singles-over-65

Sunset Slope Quilters meets at American Lutheran Church, 631 261/2 Road.

2nd Wednesday | 9 a.m. | 612-2373491 | sunsetslopequilters.com

Sweet Adelines, Grand Mesa A Capella Chorus, rehearses at Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way. Mondays | 6:30-9 p.m. | 970-245-1837 | grandmesaacappella.com

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

Two Rivers Cribbage Club meets at Grand Valley Events Center, 2400 Consistory Ct. Thursdays | 6 p.m. | 970-261-1670

Veterans Coffee Club meets at

2nd Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | w0rrz.org

Western Colorado Astronomy Club meets at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St.

1st Tuesday | 6 p.m. | 970-2012865 | wcacastronomy.org

Western Colorado Artists Guild meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-640-2751

Western Slope Coin Club meets at VFW #1247, 1404 Ute Ave. 4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 970-640-3765

Western Slope Model Yacht Club meets at Canyon View Park. Saturdays (April-October) | 10 a.m. | 303-503-3978

Western Slope Pickleball Club meets regularly. Call for details. 970-241-8561 | westernslope pickleballclub.com

Wheels West Car Club meets at the Moose Lodge, 567 251/2 Road. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | www. wheelswestcarclub.org

Writer Chicks Coffee Club, a ladies-only writers club, meets at Main Street Bagels, 559 Main St. Wednesdays | 9-10 a.m. | melody jones@melodyjonesauthor.com ■

Terri Benson - Grand Junction

“A co-worker went on vacation and while he was gone, we took a junker keyboard he had, put some grass seeds in it, and watered it. When he came back, he had a green keyboard.”

Karen Fischer - Grand Junction

“I worked in a chiropractor’s office and one of the doctors always went to the bathroom first thing. We stretched plastic wrap over the bowl and waited for the fun!”

Renee Adams - Grand Junction

“I was a nurse in a clinic and one day we talked another doctor into giving us the keys to an older doctor’s car. We went out and moved it from his usual space. There was a window that overlooked the parking lot, so we could see him when he looked around for his car. We moved his car for three days. Then we put a sign on it for him to look up at the window, where we all waved at him.”

BEACON BITS MeSa County

Community honors Robert Bray with Doug Sortor Lifetime Legacy Award

Community Impact Council of Western Colorado hosted their annual Inspire Impact Breakfast at Colorado Mesa University, where a newly renamed award honoring the late Doug Sortor was presented to Robert Bray. Bray was selected unanimously by the council because of how he has greatly impacted and supported the community. His dedication to philanthropy is in line with the values of the late Sortor who passed away in 2022. The award, previously known as the Community Impact Award, recognizes the exceptional achievements of nonprofit leaders who have demonstrated a lifetime of dedication to community service. Bray’s commitment to philanthropy and community service is an inspiration to us all. For more information, visit communityimpactcouncil.org.

Buy tickets for Herb Alpert and Lani Hall in Grand Junction

Legendary trumpet player Herb Alpert’s extraordinary musicianship has earned him five no. 1 hits, nine GRAMMY® Awards, 15 gold albums, fourteen platinum albums and has sold over 72 million records. Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass propelled his sound into the pop music limelight, at one point outselling the Beatles. Don’t miss Alpert and wife Lani Hall at the Avalon Theatre on Sunday, October 15, 2023. Tickets on sale April 21. To purchase tickets, call the Avalon Theatre box office at 970-263-5757 or go online at ticketmaster.com.

Alzheimer’s Association releases annual facts and figures report

The report conveys the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families, government and the nation’s health care system. Download the full report at alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures.

Western Colorado Community Foundation opens new Center for Philanthropy

6th & Main

970-241-2740

Mon-Fri 6:30 am.-2:30 p.m. Sat 7:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

gjmainstreetbagels.com

Artisan Bakery &

The Alzheimer’s Association recently released its 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, which is a comprehensive compilation of national statistics and information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Since 2007, the report has become the preeminent source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s issues.

Western Colorado Community Foundation recently moved into a larger and more permanent office at 128 N. Fifth St. in Grand Junction. The new offices, called the Center for Philanthropy, provide three times as much space for the organization, including room to grow with four meeting rooms, the flexibility to host on-site events, and more. The mission of the Western Colorado Community Foundation is to promote charitable giving, build and manage charitable funds for community good, and provide grants, scholarships and other resources to benefit the residents and communities of Western Colorado. For more information, call 970-243-3767 or visit wc-cf.org.

Café

where great food, great coffee & great people meet!

Gladys Beals celebrates 90th birthday with friends, classmates

On February 25, Gladys Beals celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by friends, family and two classmates from Aberdeen High School in South Dakota. Marlene Craig, who graduated with Gladys in 1951 and also lives in Grand Junction, brought her yearbook along to Gladys’ birthday party that was hosted by friends from Vestafjell Lodge, Sons of Norway. Marlene wanted to reminisce about their time in high school alongside fellow classmate Duane Helgelien and his wife Annette, who live in Fruita. After graduation, the three classmates went on to advanced schooling, had careers, got married and had families. Duane moved to Fruita 18 years ago and joined American Lutheran Church, where Marlene and Gladys had been members for a number of years. Duane will be 91 in April and Marlene will be 90 in November. Ironically, the classmates reunited and have enjoyed many activities and celebrations together.

Happy 95th Birthday, Joe Aragon!

Joe Aragon was given a ride in this 1929 Model A Ford in celebration of his birthday from a church friend. He remembered driving one of these cars when he was young. He said he had to push start it from a hill to get the choke going in order to get it running.

FREE Virtual Senior Law Day seminars

This series brings together accomplished and respected professionals to present informative virtual seminars for seniors, adult children, friends and caregivers of seniors on legal and related topics. Watch each of these seminars virtually and for free from 10-11 a.m. (sessions will not be recorded). Sign up at tinyurl.com/ycy9cjt3. Call 970-2482727, ext. 4 for technical help.

• April 7 - Tax Resources for Seniors

• April 14 - Wills & Trusts

• April 21 - Landlord-Tenant Law & Housing Issues

• April 28 - What You Need to Know When Someone Dies

Animal Services and local vets offer subsidized spay/neuter vouchers

Animal Services, in partnership with local veterinarians, are offering spay and neuter vouchers to

ADRC offers free Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers

pet owners in Mesa County. This program, made possible by the Animal Assistance Foundations, runs through September 30, 2023. Pet owners can have their pets spayed or neutered for just $25 at participating veterinarians. The number of vouchers available for 2023 is limited and their issuance is entirely at the discretion of each participating veterinarian's office. Individuals may be required to communicate their financial needs or unique circumstances requiring the voucher. For a list of participating veterinarians, call 970-244-1800 or visit blog. mesacounty.us. ■

SOS Volunteers!

In 2022, Supporting Our Seniors (SOS) volunteers provided over 1,015 rides to the grocery store or medical appointments for older adults with no other form of transportation. During this time, they drove over 5,735 miles and made a difference to over 129 older adults!

To learn more about becoming an SOS Volunteer contact us at

970-248-2746

Do you provide care for a loved one with a chronic illness? We know caregiving can be stressful. This nine-week program will teach stress management techniques, relaxation and coping strategies, and more. Classes are 90 minutes long and take place at 10 a.m. every Thursday, April 27 to June 29, at Hilltop’s Family Resource Center, 1129 Colorado Ave., Grand Junction. To register, call 970-2482746, option 1, or email ADRC@htop.org.

SUPPORTCALENDARGROUPS MeSa SUPPORT GROUPS MeSa County

Montrose & MeDelta Sa County

50+ Networking Group through Mesa County Workforce Center meets virtually. You must be registered as a job seeker at www. connectingcolorado.com to join.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 8:30-9:30 a.m. | 970-248-7560

A Course in Miracles, a spiritual self-study program, meets virtually. Call for Zoom link.

Tuesdays | 10:30 a.m. | 801-369-8995

Alzheimer’s Association’s Persons with Dementia group meets virtually. Contact for Zoom link.

2nd Tuesday | 10-11 a.m. | 970-714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org

Caregiver Support Group meets at Cappella, 628 26 1/2 Road.

1st Thursday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-822-7070

Caregiver Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 28 1/4 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

Compassionate Friends offers friendship to bereaved families at Messiah Lutheran Church, 840 N. 11th St.

1st Tuesday | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-434-3822

Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets at the Alzheimer’s Association, 2232 N. 7th St.

4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. | 970-714-2875 | wlbandel@alz.org

Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 281/4 Road.

2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

Gamblers Anonymous meets at The Meeting Hall.

Tuesdays | 7-8 p.m. | 917-363-3719

Guitars 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Tuesdays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760

Head & Neck Cancer Support Group meets at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, 2515 Foresight Circle.

1st Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-245-2400

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

Hearing Loss of America meets at Center for Independence, 740 Gunnison Ave.

2nd Saturday | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-241-0315 ext. 29

HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide meets at First Congregational Church, 1425 N. 5th St. 3rd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | 970-778-9274

Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma Support Group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Monday | 4-5 p.m. | 970-298-2351

MACHO Men cancer support group meets at the VA Medical Center, 2121 North Ave.

1st Thursday | 2 p.m. | 970-298-2351

Mending Hearts is for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call for location. Thursdays | 2-3:30 p.m. | 970-257-2390

Mens Health Group for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

1st Mondays | 9:30-11 a.m. | 970- 257-3760

Moms Group for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

1st and 4th Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-257-3760

National Alliance on Mental Illness meets at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1210 17 1/2 Road in Fruita. 4th Tuesday | 6-7:30 p.m. | www. NAMIWS.org | 970-462-3989

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones meets in the downstairs conference room at the Freedom Institute, 930 Main St.

Thursdays | 6:30-8 p.m. | 970-2162232 | tammytway@gmail.com

Overeaters Anonymous for people with compulsive eating and food behaviors, meets at Unity Church, 3205 N. 12th St.

Saturdays | 9-10 a.m. | 970-250-8435

S.M.A.R.T. Addiction Recovery meets via Zoom. Call for details. 801-369-8995 | www.smartrecovery. org

St. Mary’s Stroke Support Group meets virtually and in person. 3rd Friday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970-298-1980

Tai Chi for Veterans meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Wednesdays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-257-3760

Thyroid Support Group meets at Grand Valley Wellness, 605 281/4 Road

4th Mondays | 5:30-6:30 p.m. |

970-263-2661

TOPS for weight loss meets at Grace Point Church, 606 28 1/4 Road. Wednesdays | 9 a.m. | 970-523-0241

TOPS 458 for weight loss meets at Community of Christ Church, 2880 B 1/2 Road.

Tuesdays | 1 p.m. | 970-628-4981

Veteran Spouses Grief and Loss ladies-only meets at Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2830 Riverside Pkwy. Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | 970-263-8986

Vets 4 Vets meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Fridays | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 970-257-3760

Woman to Woman cancer support group meets in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Reflection Room.

3rd Thursday | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | 970-298-2351

Women Veterans Tai Chi meets at Western Region One Source, 482 28 Road.

Fridays | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | 970-257-3760 ■

FUN AFTER 50

FUN AFTER 50 Senior Center Activities

Senior Recreation Center activities

Registration is required for all activities. To register for programs, call 970-858-0360 or visit Fruita.org/parksrec/page/seniors

FOOD

Meals on Wheels

Adults 60+ can enjoy a quality nutritious meal in the Cherry Room. Call 970298-9844 to reserve your meal by 4 p.m. the previous business day. No walk-ins.

12 p.m. | Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Senior Potluck

Bring a shareable dish to accompany the main course, or pay just $3! On April 13, it’s ribs and on April 27, the main course is Italian. Preregistration required to ensure there’s enough for everyone. RSVP by noon the Monday before.

12 p.m. | April 12 & 27 | $3 if no dish

Food for Thought: Carbs & Sugars

Learn about carbs and sugars: the good and the bad! Bring a sugar-inspired dish or carb-loaded recipe to share.

1 p.m. | April 24 | Free

Social Night with Tacos

Feast on tacos while watching a movie.

5 p.m. | April 21 | Free

Active Newcomers Social

Make friends at this event for rec center newcomers.

5-7 p.m. | April 26 | Free

HIKES & TRIPS

Colorado Riverfront Trail Walk

Stroll on a concrete path along the Colorado Riverfront Trail, starting at

Las Colonias to Riverside, while admiring the commissioned murals under the Fifth Street Bridge. Trail is 1-2 miles and is fully ADA accessible. Meet at the Senior Center to follow one another to the trailhead.

9:30 a.m. | April 11 | $5

Rustler’s Loop Hike

See great views of the Colorado River and wildflowers on this easy to moderate 3.5-mile hike near Loma. Meet at the Senior Center to follow one another to the trail head.

8:30 a.m. | April 19 | $5

Atomic Legacy Cabin Trip

This tour will delve into the story of the historic log cabin as Grand Junction’s little-known Manhattan Project site, and will tell how uranium left a lasting impact on the surrounding region. The cabin has a lift and is ADA accessible. Lunch to follow in Orchard Mesa. Register by April 17 (limited availability).

9:30 a.m. | April 25 | $50

MUSIC

Acoustic Group

Play your instrument with other talented musicians.

6:30 p.m. | April 13 & 27

GAMES

Pinochle

Play with someone you know or join a table and meet new people.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

Southwest Arbor Fest

Enjoy live music, craft beer, food trucks and more. Register for the Cornhole Challenge by April 14.

9 a.m. | April 22 | Lincoln Park| Free

SENIOR CENTER EVENTS

Activities take place at the Grand Junction Senior Center, 550 Ouray Ave. Call 970-243-7408 for details

Easter Party

10 a.m. | April 6 | Free Paint Class

9 a.m. | April 7, 21 & 28 | $5

FITNESS

Tai Chi for Health

Tai Chi fosters physical and mental health improvement and aids spiritual growth.

8-9 a.m. Wednesday | 9-10 a.m. Thursday | Lincoln Park Barn |$8; $60 10-punch pass

Gentle Yoga

Develop flexibility of mind and body in a fun, supportive environment.

8-9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Fridays | Lincoln Park Barn | $8; $60 10-punch pass

Line Dance

Choreographed dances taught to a variety of music.

12:15-2 p.m. | Mondays | Lincoln Park Barn | $6; $20 five-week session

SPORTS

Splash Aqua Aerobics

Work out in the water with these moderately intense exercises. Silver Sneakers and Renew Active accepted.

8:30-9:30 a.m. Mon, Weds, Fri| 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Tues & Thurs | Orchard Mesa Pool | $5

Pickleball Clinics

Beginners at Pineridge Courts

9-11 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sundays | Begins April 8 | $15

MONDAY

9:00 a.m. Cribbage & Games

10:00 a.m. Computer Classes 12:00 p.m. Canasta

1:00 p.m. Card Bingo 6:00 p.m. Game Night

TUESDAY 8:00 a.m. Pinochle (DD) 9:00 a.m. Pool Tournament & Games 11:00 a.m. Darts 1:00 p.m. Bingo

WEDNESDAY

9:00 a.m. Games

9:30 a.m. Pool

1:00 p.m. Pinochle

April 5

Veterans Resource Tour

This free resource fair at the Montrose County Event Center connects veterans with a variety of services, such as health care enrollment, benefits and other veteran organizations.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. | 1036 N. 7th St., Montrose | Free | 970-393-0791

April 5

Book Talk

Local author Judy S. Fairchild joins the Delta Library Book Club to talk about and sign copies of her novel, “The Old Eve Tree.” The story is told through the eyes of 7-year-old Tilly Harris during the summer of 1952, in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, as she discovers prejudice against differences, truths that have to be hidden, cruelty disguised as righteousness, and strength in standing up for what is right.

2 p.m. | 211 W. 6th St., Delta | Free | deltalibraries.org | 970-874-9630

April 8

Kitten Shower

Help Roice-Hurst Humane Society prepare for the influx of kittens they will care for this season by bringing in your tax-deductible donations. While there, enjoy a shelter tour, learn about fostering and meet some adorable kittens. Visit the website or bit.ly/rhhsfoster for a current wish list of needed items.

12-3 p.m. | 720 W. 4th St., Delta | rh humanesociety.org | 970-874-1078

April 8

Dean Bonzani at Horsefly Brewery

Come to Horsefly Brewery for the consistently incredible food and libations, and stay for the rollicking oneman musical revue. Nestle in, buckle up and enjoy the third installment of Horsefly Hi-jinks.

6 p.m. | 846 E. Main St., Montrose | Free | horseflybrewing.com | 970-249-6889

April 9

April 13-16

Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic

Bergen Spay & Neuter Alliance’s mobile clinic brings discounted sterilization services for dogs and cats without affordable options for veterinary care. Space is limited and assigned on a first-to-register basis. Cost is based on income. Register and pay appointment reservation fee online. Email or text for registration help.

8 a.m.- 12 p.m. | 444 Palmer St., Delta | bit.ly/3t6zerj | signupfor bergen@gmail.com | 719-285-9788

April 14-15

Grand Mesa Short Film Festival

Meet the future filmmakers today at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center during two evening showings of 15 different films spanning genres including documentary, animation, musical, drama and horror. Please be advised: many films contain adult content. A Saturday matinee at 10 a.m. shows child-appropriate films only.

April 15

Heirloom Apple Grafting Class

Learn how to graft apple trees and explore the region’s fruit growing history with the Apple Core Project at the Ute Indian Museum. Participants will receive up to three rootstock and scion, a grafting knife, wax and bands for your trees, and new growth cuttings.

1-4 p.m. | 17253 Chipeta Road, Montrose | $70 | applecoreproject.org | 970-708-3972

April 15

Date Night with the Winemaker

The Temple hosts its first-ever wine tasting dinner with a three-course Italian dinner courtesy of the Stone House and Dubois Winery. Mixed Bag Jazz will play through dinner with dancing to follow.

6-9 p.m. | 511 E. Main St., Montrose | $80 | thetempleevents.com | 970-275-3400

Three-time Grammy award winning metropolitan opera star and mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung will present an afternoon of song and chamber music at CMU’s Love Recital Hall. DeYoung will be joined by Jeremy Reger on the piano and Andrew Krimm on the viola, presenting works by Brahms, Frank Bridge and other operatic classics.

3-5 p.m. | 1221 N. 12th St. | $17 | westernslopeconcertseries.org | 970-234-5661

7-9 p.m. | 195 W. Main St., Cedaredge | $15 or $25 weekend pass | gmaec.org | 970-856-9195

April 15

Heirloom Apple Grafting Class

April 18

ELEMENTAL Film Premiere

Filmed in Oregon and narrated by

Learn how to graft apple trees and explore the region’s fruit growing history with the Apple Core Project at the Ute Indian Museum. Participants will receive up to three rootstock and scion, a grafting knife, wax and bands for your trees, and new growth cuttings.

1-4 p.m. | 17253 Chipeta Road, Montrose | $70 | applecoreproject.org | 970-708-3972

David Oyelowo, ELEMENTAL (78 min) includes the voices of climate experts, indigenous people and fire survivors, and asks us to reimagine our relationship with wildfire as we prepare for an increasingly hotter future. After the movie, learn more from a local panel of experts hosted by West Region Wildfire Council.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m. | 604 Clinton St., Ridgway | $15 | sherbino.org | 970-318-0892

April 19 & 20

Comedy Night with Sam Adams

Sam Adams is a prize-winning comedian, an award-winning sports journalist, a commercial actor and a keynote public speaker. See him live at the Delta Egyptian Theatre (452 Main St., Delta) on April 19 and at Blue Sage Center for the Arts (226 Grand Ave., Paonia) on April 20. Tickets are free for those over 60, thanks to the Next 50 Initiative.

7 p.m. (Delta Egyptian), 6 p.m. (Blue Sage) | Free for 60+

April 22

Police K9 Challenge

The challenge helps build public awareness of K9 units and their abilities, and for dogs and handlers to show off their skills and compete for “Top Dog” in categories such as obedience, agility, detection, fastest dog, hardest hitting, strongest grip and muzzle work. This event raises funds for retired police dogs’ medical expenses and training seminars.

All Day | 403 Fairgrounds, Hotchkiss | Free | highdesertk9.com | 970-9860170

April 28-29

Spring Expo

Delta Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Spring Expo Home & Garden Show highlights local home improvement, lawn and garden, recreation and other small businesses. Stop by to browse the booths and make your spring plans for home and garden, recreation and adventure!

9 a.m.- 5 p.m. | Confluence Park, Delta | Free | deltacolorado.org | 970-874-8616

April 28-30

Hestival at Big B’s Kick off camping season at Hestival at Big B’s in Hotchkiss! This family and critter-friendly camp-out offers activities during the day and live music at night, including cider, outdoor excursions, campfires and more. Call for times.

39126 CO-133, Hotchkiss | $80+ | bigbs.com | 970-527-1110

April

29

I Built It! Car Show

April 20

How Sweet it Is

Delta-Montrose Community Concert Association presents this heartwarming tribute to James Taylor by Nashville-based Steve Leslie, an awarded singer/songwriter/guitarist.

7 p.m. | 822 Grand Ave., Delta | $20 | deltamontroseconcerts.com | 970-835-4480

This show is designed for hobbyist or backyard builders. Come admire their handiwork and stay for the food truck and DJ. Preregister via email and pay the day of the show. Proceeds help fund automotive scholarships at Technical College of the Rockies. .

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 1165 Hwy 50, Delta | $20 per entry | 970-209-4271 | nuco@peoplepc.com

Alpine Photography Club meets in Class 100 at Colorado Mesa University, 245 S. Cascade, Montrose.

2nd Tuesday | 7-9 p.m. | apcmontroseco@gmail.com

Black Canyon Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages to sing at Olathe United Methodist Church, 518 Hersum Ave.

Thursdays | 7-8:30 p.m. | 970-2101793

Black Canyon Woodcarvers meets at Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr.

Thursdays | 1-3 p.m. | 970-323-5860

Citizen’s Climate Lobby advocates for climate change solutions and meets at Montrose Regional Library. 970-765-9095 | chapmanjanet@ yahoo.com

Crafternoon members knit and crochet projects at Montrose Regional Library to donate to charities. Supplies provided.

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

970-249-9656

Crafty Chatty members work on craft projects at the Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr. Bring your own materials.

Tuesdays | 9:45-11:30 a.m. |

970-249-7198

Columbine Quilters gather monthly at 4 Hilcrest Plaza Way, Montrose.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 970-4623849 | paulalakecity@gmail.com

Delta Hub-Wheelers Square Dance Club seeks new dancers! 970-773-4495 | deltawriter47@ gmail.com

Digging Your Roots Genealogy

Group meets at Cedaredge Library, 180 SW 6th Ave.

Last Friday | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-399-7674 | deltalibraries.org

Friendship Quilters meets at Montrose County Events Center, 1036 N. 7th St.

4th Thursday | 9 a.m. | 970-4174842

Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society can help you research your family history at the Montrose Genealogy Center, 700 E. Main.

Wednesdays & Thursdays | 1-4 p.m.

| 970-240-1755

Gold Prospectors of America meets at Olathe Community Center, 115 Main St.

3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 970-5969184 | wcgpaa.org

Golden Circle of Friends meets at Montrose Senior Center, 1800 Pavilion Dr. Bring lunch and socialize.

Tuesdays & Fridays | 12 p.m. | 970-252-4888

Montrose Area Woodturners meets at 520 Collins Way, Montrose.

2nd Saturday | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-986-2550 | lvcribbs@gmail.com

Montrose Amateur Radio Club meets at Olathe Community Center.

3rd Friday | 7 p.m. | 970-417-6142

Montrose Historical Society meets at Montrose Events Center, 1036 N.

7th St.

1st Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 970-2492085 | montrosehistory.org

Montrose Elks hosts Bingo at the Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest Dr. Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m. | 970-249-4852

Montrose Library Book Club meets virtually. Email for link.

1st Saturday | 9-10 a.m. | lmclean@montroselibrary.org

Montrose Model Aircraft Association fly remote-control planes every weekend. Beginners welcome. mmaa-modelairplanes.org | 970-7650599 | mmaaflyer@gmail.com

Montrose Newcomers & Neighbors meets at Cedar Creek Church, 222 S. Townsend Ave., September through May.

1st Wednesdays | 10 a.m. | bethcav25@gmail.com

Montrose Pavilion Dance Club hosts dances at Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Dr. All ages welcome.

2nd & 4th Saturdays | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | $10 | 970-252-7172

Montrose Single Seniors is a new group for active singles. 520-282-9060 | smilingangel10@ gmail.com

Montrose Woman’s Club meets at the Lions Clubhouse, 602 N. Nevada Ave., August through May. Bring lunch.

SUPPORT GROUPS

HopeWest Bereavement Book Club members heal through discussions about death and grief from various forms of literature at the Delta Library, 211 W. 6th St.

3rd Thursday | 2-4 p.m. | 970-8749630 | deltalibraries.org

Caregivers Support Group meets at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave.

2nd & 4th Mondays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-240-3714

Caregiver Support Group Montrose meets monthly at US Bank. 1 & 3 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 970-275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Delta meets monthly at Delta County Memorial Hospital, meeting room A.

1 p.m. | 1st & 3rd Fridays | 970275-2138

Caregiver Support Group Virtual meets monthly on Zoom. For link, contact Laird@Family-Caregiver. org.

10:30-11:30 a.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970-275-2138

COVID-19 Grief Group meets at Touch of Care, 1100 E. Main St., Montrose.

2nd & Last Tuesday | 12 p.m. | 970-787-9988

Dementia Caregivers Delta meets at Crossroads Senior Living, 1380 Aspen Way. Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-5100724

3rd Mondays | 11:30 a.m. | 970-9018743

SOS: Singles Over 65 is a gender-balanced club for single seniors! Must join online. meetup.com/montrose-singlesover-65

Uncompahgre Treasure Club meets at Lions Park Clubhouse in Montrose, 602 N. Nevada. 7 p.m. | 2nd Monday | 970-258-1955

Dementia Caregivers Cedareddge meets at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Dementia Caregivers Hotchkiss meets at Town Hall, 276 Main St.

2nd & 4th Wednesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Delta Diabetes Support Group meets at Grand Mesa Oncology’s Crag Crest room, 1501 E. 3rd St. 2nd Tuesdays | 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Essential Tremor Support Group meets bimonthly at Montrose Regional Health’s conference room, 800 S. 3rd St. Call 405-205-9397

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at Montrose Regional Health’s conference room, 800 S. 3rd St.

Last Monday | 1-2:30 p.m. | 970252-2996

Stroke Support Group meets monthly at Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way, Montrose.

1 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays | 970765-2210

|

uncompahgretreasureclub.com

Veterans Coffee Cedaredge meets at The Pondy, 220 W. Main St. 3rd Tuesday | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 970-756-2210 | whafv.org

Veterans Coffee Montrose meets at the Warrior Resource Center, 4 Hillcrest Plaza Way.

Thursdays | 8-10 a.m. | 970-756-2210 | whafv.orgv ■

FUN AFTER 50

Dam, learn how the project was constructed on the Uncompahgre River in 1987. Bring money for lunch. Register by April 7.

9:15 a.m. | April 18 & 25 | $25

How Sweet It Is! James Taylor Tribute

To register for programs, call 970-252-4884 or visit MontroseRec.com

EDUCATION

Presentations are free. Call to reserve your seat.

Film: Only the Earth & Mountains

This film interrogates the narrative of white settlers in the American West and its implications to society today by examining the repercussions of the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864. This screening features a panel discussion with the filmmaker.

1 p.m. | April 4

Premier World Discovery Travel Show

Learn about tours in the continental U.S. and internationally, and get your travel questions answered. You can also attend via Zoom. Call 970-2524884 for link.

1 p.m. | April 10

Comedian Sam Adams

Sam Adams received high praise at the 2009 Great American Comedy Festival. See him live, courtesy of the Blue Sage Center for the Arts Next50 Grant.

1 p.m. | April 20

Essential Oils Made Easy

Learn about essential oils and natural remedies that have been used for over a thousand years for common colds, illnesses and chronic conditions.

1 p.m. | April 24

TRIPS & TOURS

Most trips meet at the Senior Center and fill quickly. Get on the waiting list if a tour is full in case another is scheduled.

Ridgway Dam Tour

In this two-hour tour of the Ridgway

Delta-Montrose Community Concerts brings Nashville-based Steve Leslie to Delta County Performing Arts & Education Center in a spellbinding concert where he performs the music of one of his greatest influences: James Taylor. Bring money for dinner at Daveto’s.

4:30 p.m. | April 20 | $34

Hike: Black Ridge Trail

This approximate 4.5-mile roundtrip hike on the Colorado National Monument has a 225-ft. elevation gain and is ranked moderate. Our guide will share historic photos and discuss the flora in the area. Meet at the Montrose Community Recreation Center and bring a sack lunch.

7:45 a.m. | April 22 | $20

FITNESS

Tai Chi for Health & Energy

Tai Chi brings peace to the body, using controlled movements, weight transference, mental resistance and quietness of mind.

10-10:30 a.m. | Mondays | Donation

ART

Ceramics

Bring your own ceramic project or buy from us. Paints, finishing sprays and glazes provided.

12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | $15 | 970-424-4451

Crafters

Bring supplies and work on your project for free, or pay $20, which covers instruction and supplies for a three-month session.

12-3 p.m. | Wednesdays | Free or $20 | 818-262-3272

GAMES

Contact the senior center for a schedule!

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

GAMES

Pinochle

12:30-3:30 p.m. | Tuesdays | $15

Tuesday Needlers

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

FITNESS

Dance Fit

Burn energy, shake stress and show off your dance moves!

4:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Indoor Pickleball

Play this fun sport with an even funnier name. Dates and times are subject to change based on gym availability. Call or check the website for details.

7:15-11:15 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | 12:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays

Pilates

Low-impact movements that improve flexibility, muscular strength and endurance.

12 p.m. Mondays | 9 a.m. Fridays

Senior Circuit Circuit training for seniors with flexibility exercises.

9 a.m. | Monday through Friday

Yoga Fusion

This vinyasa-flow style class blends yoga, Pilates and barre.

4:30 p.m. | Wednesdays

Healthy Body Strong Bones

Use simple hand weights to help increase flexibility, balance and bone strength.

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Silver Sneakers Classic

Strengthen muscles and increase range of movement.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Body Blitz

Cross-train with this quick-paced muscle conditioning class.

9 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays | 9 a.m. Thursdays

Body Bar

Get an entire body workout using a weighted fitness bar.

6 a.m. | Wednesdays

POOL FITNESS

Aqua Movers

Jump start your week with a mid- to high-intensity cardio and strength training water class.

5:30 p.m. | Thursdays

Pool Power

Workout in shallow water to focus and tone problem areas.

9:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Body & Health

Enjoy a combination of aerobic and full-body workout in the pool.

10:30 a.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Light-n-Lively

Build endurance and strength, designed for beginners.

10 a.m. | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Full Body Cardio

A full-body workout with water jogging, river running, jumping jacks and lunges.

5:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Silver Sneakers Splash

A fun shallow-water exercise class that uses a signature splash-board to increase movement. Suitable for non-swimmers.

8:30 a.m. | Mondays & Wednesdays

Free walk-in resource center in Delta

The City of Delta offers free case management and community resource support on a walk-in basis every Wednesday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Westminster Hall, 135 4th St. Case Managers will be available to assist participants with housing navigation, application assistance, employment help and much more. The walk-in resource connection center is designed to reduce barriers and bias in order to provide equitable services to community members. The goal is to listen, understand, support and connect individuals to resources and build a thriving community. Staff time for the walk-in resource center is funded by a grant from the Colorado Division of Justice and American Rescue Plan funds. In February, the City submitted additional grant requests that will enable the continued funding of this program. Though this program has been created as a component of the City’s strategy for reducing homelessness, this service will be available to anyone who needs help navigating resources. Call case managers at 970-874-7911 for more information or support.

BEACON BITS

Valley Symphony announces guest conductor for Pop Stars & Superheroes concert

Steven Aguilo-Arbues from Denver will guest conduct the orchestra at Valley Symphony’s (VSA) Pop Stars & Superheroes concerts at the Montrose Pavilion on Saturday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 23 at 3 p.m. Performances will feature both the orchestra and chorus. AguilóArbues earned his professional studies certificate and master of music degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. He has an active career as a conductor, chorus master, vocal coach, recitalist and producer, and has performed as a solo and collaborative pianist throughout Spain, Italy, Peru and the U.S., including Carnegie Hall. Aguiló-Arbues has had the privilege of studying under notable conducting pedagogues including Larry Rachleff (Rice University), David Effron (Indiana University), Edoardo Müller (Metropolitan Opera) and David Gilbert (New York Philharmonic). In 2016, he was chosen as an orchestral conducting fellow with the Miami Music Festival. For more information on Aguilo-Arbues, news on VSA’s 2022-2023 season, the audition process and tickets, visit valleysymphony.net, or call 970-275-8676.

Donations needed to help feed hungry seniors

Golden Circle Seniors is requesting community donations for the Senior Pantry Program and to purchase fresh food items supplemented by foods from Sharing Ministries. To help seniors in need, make checks payable to Golden Circle Seniors, PO Box 832, Montrose, CO 81402. Your donations is tax deductible. For more information, email themontroseseniorscene@ gmail.com or call 970-252-4889.

Scrabble players welcome at Delta Library

All Scrabble players and skill levels welcome every Saturday at 1 p.m.

Alzheimer’s Association releases annual facts and figures report

The Alzheimer’s Association recently released its 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, which is a comprehensive compilation of national statistics and

information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Since 2007, the report has become the preeminent source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s issues. The report conveys the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families, government and the nation’s health care system. Download the full report at alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures.

FREE Senior Law Day seminars

This series brings together accomplished and respected profession-

Check out Colorado’s State Parks with help from Delta Libraries

Thanks to a partnership with the Colorado State Library and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, every library in Delta County has three park pass hang tags that can be checked out for up to seven days. The pass is good for any state park in Colorado, including the three state parks in Delta County. Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit your nearest library to inquire about checking out a pass.

als to present informative virtual seminars for seniors, adult children, friends and caregivers of seniors on legal and related topics. Watch each seminar virtually and for free from 10-11 a.m. (sessions will not be recorded). Sign up at tinyurl. com/ycy9cjt3. Call 970-248-2727, ext. 4 for technical help.

OF THE Month Question

What’s the best practical joke you ever played?

Jeanne

“I substituted salt for sugar at breakfast for Dad’s coffee. He wasn’t happy!”

• April 7 - Tax Resources for Seniors

• April 14 - Wills & Trusts

• April 21 - Landlord-Tenant Law & Housing Issues

• April 28 - What You Need to Know When Someone Dies

Free tax preparation appointments

AARP Tax-Aide is providing free tax preparation at the Montrose Senior Center. Appointments are required. Call 970-2524889. Bring picture IDs, Social Security/ITIN cards, last year’s tax return and all documents to accurately complete your return, including letters from the IRS if you had identity theft, receipt of the economic impact funds, or the letter 6419 if you received Advanced Child Tax Credit payments. ■

Bed & Breakfast

Private Baths RV Spots and so much more!

“Where our love of community, heritage and the outdoors reflect in our rooms and hospitality.”

Main Street | Nucla, CO Call or Text 970-428-7750 | Email: vestalhousenucla@gmail.com

Lynne Evans - Ouray

“A friend was attending graduate school part time and stayed in a spare room at my house when he had to be in LA. He bought a fishing boat that he parked in my neighbor’s driveway. Our neighborhood had some opossum activity and he hated them! I waited until April Fool’s Day to call him. Sounding panicked I said, ‘I don’t know what to do! That darned opossum is inside your boat!’ I couldn’t let the ruse go on for more than a minute though because he was an excitable guy and he went nuts!”

Debra Anderson - Delta

“I taped a friend’s desk chair to her desk underneath while she was at lunch. Then we sat and watched as she tried to pull it out.”

52.

18. French school

22. Goya’s “The Duchess

CLASSES

FREE WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE INSTRUCTION. Because “NO MEANS NO!” Simple and effective methods to escape assault taught by a nationally certified black belt instructor with 4 decades of experience. Call Bob (no texts please) 970-261-2445. Leave your name and number and I’ll return your call.

FOR RENT

Fruita 55+ Community, 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage. Beautiful. Clubhouse Activities, Includes Lawncare, Avail Now. Bray Property Management 970242-8450

Rental in quiet, safe, clean 55+ Friendship Woods Senior Community. 2 bedrm 1-bath recently renovated mobile home in very nice condition. Large shady yard, carport and shed. W/S/T incl. in rent. 2 small pets allowed. $850/mo. Section 8 ok. 970210-5753.

FOR RENT

Rental in quiet, safe, clean 55+ Friendship Woods Senior Community. 3 bedrm 2-bath recently renovated mobile home in very nice condition. Large, private shady yard, carport and shed. W/S/T incl. in rent. 2 small pets allowed. $850/mo. Section 8 ok. 970210-5753.

FOR SALE

RETIRING: Selling doll molds and all supplies. Would take down payment and payment plan. 970-778-8075.

Medline Transport Wheelchair, four 8” wheels, lightweight, nice height, 40” to handles. $160/OBO. Drive Medical Transfer Tub Bench, Tool-free Back, Legs, Arm rest. $50/OBO. Both excellent condition. 970-283-1283, leave message.

Invacare Hospital Bed. Model #G5510 fully electric, adjustable bed. Less than 1 year old. $700 OBO. Local pickup only - The Ridges. 970-245-1173.

HOME SERVICES

Uncompahgre Valley Home Care

Private Duty Nursing in your Home

Done your way! Skilled and non-skilled. 32 Years of Nursing Experience. uncompahgrevalleyhomecare.com Call Cyndi at 970-208-3321

THE CLEANING LADY, LLC. Let’s clean out the clutter! Competitive rates on downsizing, reorganizing & cleaning—weekly, biweekly, monthly or just once. Airbnb’s, RV and moveout cleaning also! Linda K. 720-8417505 or 970-263-7364.

AMBER’S HOUSE CLEANING, LLC.

Here making an honest living to help make your life easier. Licensed and insured. References available. Mesa County, 970-985-8178.

KETTLE ELECTRIC New construction, remodeling, inspections, and troubleshooting. Reasonable prices. 970-241-4825.

$CASH$ Offers for your home. Call 970-623-9317.

We buy houses, any condition, any situation. 970-316-2488.

SERVICES

HEALTH & WELLNESS

HOME HEALTH PHYSICAL THERAPY. Enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Total PT including strength, balance, pain management, postsurgery, chemo rehab. Improve your physical and mental well-being. Bypass complicated insurance plans/ doctor referrals. Cash pay: $75/hr. Call Paul 970-433-1777

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR

DAYS IN MONTROSE AND GRAND JUNCTION. Got pain? Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Doctor evaluation and education on cannabis use in a professional HIPAAcompliant setting. Call for appointment times and days. 720-443-2420 or visithealthychoicesunltd.com.

WANTED TO BUY

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

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES INC. Your needs Delivered. Join the many other Grand Junction area business owners who are utilizing our ef cient restocking services. Rags, oor care, hand care, packing material, paper products, respiratory, gloves, eye protection, ear protections,and head gear, restocking all bathroom needs. Most everything you need for safety, cleaning and bathroom. Bi-weekly or Monthly restocking 970-434-9440

Cash paid for old or new PoliceFire-Sheriff-State Police badges or patches. Also, for Fire Helmets & US Customs & Immigration badges and patches. Call Bob 970-261-8297.

Sell me your family’s old lm cameras. Fair Price Paid based on condition. I Prefer 50’s-70’s, German, Canon, Nikon, K-1000’s. 970-823-0002.

USED BOOKS BUY, SELL OR TRADE. Gently used books on hundreds of subjects. Westerns, romance, mysteries, suspense, kids, young adult, inspirational and many others. Large print. Special orders. 970-2423911. Twice Upon a Time Bookshop, 2885 North Ave., Ste. B. located in front of Walmart next to Subway. 10-6 Tues-Sat. **Bring this ad in for $10 Trade Credit**

Puzzle Answers

MONTROSE/DELTA MESA COUNTY

ADRC - SOS: Provide rides to homebound seniors. Apply at htop.org/ volunteer or call 970-248-2746.

A Little Help: Help older adults with home projects. Apply at alittlehelp. org/volunteering; call 970-404-1923.

Ariel Clinical Services: Be a host home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Call 970-245-1616.

Community Hospital: Support the hospital in varying positions. Contact codell@gjhosp.org or 970-644-3541.

Food Bank of the Rockies has volunteer shifts available. Contact foodbankrockies.org/westernslope-volunteer or 970-464-1138.

Grand Junction Visitor Center: Welcome visitors to the Grand Valley. Contact matthewh@gjcity.org or 970256-4054.

Hilltop’s Senior Life Options: Help enrich the lives of senior residents. Apply at htop.org/volunteer or call 970-244-0659.

Lower Valley Heritage Room: Help preserve Fruita history. Call 970-8583868.

Master Gardeners: Teach landscape and gardening at CSU Extension. Apply at tra.extension.colostate.edu or call 970-244-1834.

Meals on Wheels: Deliver lunch to homebound seniors or serve lunch at local dining sites. Call 970-298-9844.

Mesa County RSVP connects individuals 55+ to volunteer positions in its member agencies. View available positions and apply at mesacountyrsvp. org or call 970-243-9839.

Operation Interdependence: Hand write notes for deployed U.S. military men and women. Contact carley@ oidelivers.org or 970-523-4217.

Palisade Historical Society: Share Palisade history and work on committees. Call 970-464-2177.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society: Walk dogs, socialize cats, transport pets, help with events and more. Apply at rhhumanesociety.org/volunteer.

Montrose Library: Sort donated books and run book sales. Apply at montroselibrary.org/support-mrld or call 970-249-9656.

Golden Circle Seniors: Help seniors at the Montrose Senior Center. Call 970-252-4888.

Morningstar Therapy Dogs: Registered dog handlers and their pets visit nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and schools. Call 970-5969343 to learn more.

Museum of the Mountain West: Tour guides bring the past to life for visitors. Contact 970-240-3400.

Region 10-RSVP connects individuals age 55 and older to volunteer positions in Delta and Montrose counties. Contact jwalker@region10.net or 970-765-3147.

Senior CommUnity Meals: Help sort and deliver meals to homebound seniors. Call 970-874-7661.

Sharing Ministries Food Bank: Greet clients, pick up/drop off food, stock shelves and help in the office and at events. Apply at sharingministries. com/help/volunteer or 970-240-8385.

Time Bank of the Rockies helps people through a system of exchanged services. Apply at timebankofthe rockies.com/membership.html or call 970-209-6886.

Valley Symphony Association: Support local musicians who bring classical music to life. Contact info@ valleysymphony.net or 970-765-8323.

Welcome Home Alliance: Support local veterans. See current needs at whafv.org/volunteer.html or call 970765-2210.

Carefree inspired living.

Our award-winning communities are redefining senior living with luxuriously designed apartments and public spaces that inspire. Creative cusine served in an elegant restaurant style setting, engaging social activities that bring neighbors together, beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces with walking trails and compassionate care from Hilltop; trusted by Western Colorado for over 70 years.

Once upon a time, life was wholesome

Iwas watching an old ‘50s movie on Netflix, and wondered why this movie had been a favorite of mine for so many years. After thinking about it some more, I became acutely aware of what the attraction was.

This movie was a perfect reflection of how our culture used to be. It was a clear reminder of my history: who I used to be, my influencers and the social mores of an earlier time. In the ’40s and ’50s, I remember life as tranquil, lighthearted and wholesome.

Then I look at life today. So much has changed—very little with my approval.

There isn’t much I can do other than accept it. Friends accuse me of being in a time warp when I express my preference for all things wholesome and principled. Maybe they’re right. I admit to being disappointed with humankind’s general lack of values. For decades I was clear on the difference between right and wrong, vulgar and refined, respectable and despicable. Today, the moral bar has been dropped so low, it rests comfortably at my feet.

Growing up, I learned that swearing was unacceptable and sex should not be casual. I was also told that I only had one chance to make a first impression, and I would be judged largely by my reputation. Therefore, if I cared, I should do my best to keep it pristine—and I cared.

Today, there is little to no caring about one’s reputation because there is no shame or accountability.

When Elvis Presley appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show in the 1950s,

my father made my younger brother and me leave the room because “That young man’s body gyrations are not acceptable for young eyes.” My father, no doubt, is dizzy from turning in his grave over what is going on today in movies, on TV and in real life.

WHEN ELVIS PRESLEY APPEARED ON THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW IN THE 1950S, MY FATHER MADE MY YOUNGER BROTHER AND ME LEAVE THE ROOM

How can we hope to keep our children wholesome and free from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy when casual sex is a common occurrence on virtually every prime time show we watch? Courtship no longer exists. Today, it’s girl meets boy. Girl and boy go to dinner. Boy goes back to girl’s apartment where they rip off each other’s clothes. It’s no longer shocking because it’s so widely accepted.

Bathing suits are so skimpy, there’s no way they can do battle with even the tiniest ripple of ocean water. Shorts are shorter and clothing is worn shredded. Suggestive messages are written on shirts and across the backside of pants. Today’s kids dress for school in sloppy outfits like I used to change into when I came home from school before I went out to play.

What I am is disheartened. I miss the subtleties and reassurance that came with wholesome living. ■

Laverne Bardy is the author of two book collections of her syndicated humor columns: “Driving Backwards on a One-Way Street,” and “How the (Bleep) Did I Get this Old?” She has been writing her column, Laverne’s View, since 1999

Director Spotlight: Doug Thomason

At Browns, we believe the staff you work with to care for your loved one makes the biggest impact.

“After retiring from the working world, it was almost a calling that led me to reenter the workforce—and what a calling it has been! The cremation and funeral industry was new to me even though both of my parents had passed.

Although I never fully realized the totality of what we do, Browns Cremation & Funeral Service has always had a great reputation for its compassion and integrity, and so it was an honor to join the growing team of professionals. The number of families we’ve served has increased every year, but the quality and integrity in how we conduct ourselves has remained the constant value the community has come to expect.

When I’m out and about, I’m proud to tell people exactly what I do and the tremendous opportunity we have as a business to truly impact families when they are at a very low point in their lives.”

We strive to do more for our families than just disposition.