May 2023 - Life After 50

Charleston, Savannah & Jekyll Island

Sept. 22-28, 2023

7 Days of Southern Charm at Its Best!

Cajun Christmas & New Year’s Eve Cruise

$3,399 PER PERSON*

DAY 1: Depart Colorado Springs and arrive in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina. Tonight, get to know your Tour Manager and fellow traveling companions during a welcome dinner in the hotel.

DAY 2: Explore the charm of Charleston and Boone Hall plantation. See the Old Market and Exchange and the famous “Battery at the Harbor,” which overlooks Fort Sumter. At Boone Hall Plantation enjoy a taste of the Old South with a traditional Low Country Plantation lunch before a tour of the grounds.

DAY 3: Depart Charleston for one of Georgia’s “Golden Isles” Jekyll Island. En route, a stop is made at charming Beaufort, one of only a handful of towns in the nation that has had its entire downtown designated a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation Later, arrive at the romantic Victorian-style Jekyll Island Club Hotel.

DAY 4: Begin the day with a narrated tram tour of Jekyll Island’s National Landmark Historic District. In the afternoon, visit the largest of the ”Golden Isles,” St. Simons, where Spanish moss-draped oaks line the island’s charming streets. See St. Simons Lighthouse, in operation since 1872, and Bloody Marsh, where British and Scottish soldiers defeated the Spanish. The balance of the day is free to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Jekyll Island Club.

DAY 5: Travel to Savannah, the “Belle of the South” and discover why General Sherman found this city much too beautiful to burn during the Civil War. On a narrated trolley tour your driver-guide recounts the tales and secrets of the stately mansions of the lovely squares of Savannah’s Historic District. Pass the 1820 birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, the squares and streets where movies such as Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil were filmed.

DAY 6: This morning it’s off to Tybee Island to visit the lighthouse that has been the guardian of the Savannah River since 1736. Visit the museum that features exhibits of early life on the island. Later, feel free to discover the many shops along River Street and enjoy the beauty of the quaint squares perfect for relaxing. Tonight, dinner is served family-style at Mrs. Wilkes’ Boarding House, a Savannah legend.

DAY 7: Bid a fond farewell to Savannah and leave with wonderful memories of the South’s most beautiful cities.

Winter in the Desert Oasis

March 24-31, 2024

$3,649 PER PERSON*

Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs for Las Vegas. We’ll overnight at the center of the glittering “Fremont Street Experience.”

Day 2: See Sin City’s top hotels and largest casinos including the Venetian, the Mirage and famed Caesars Palace. Also see the over-the-top architecture of New York, the Paris Eiffel Tower and the Fountains of the Bellagio. Visit the Valley of Fire State Park, and be amazed by the landscape. Later, come to Zion National Park where your classic wilderness lodge and dinner await.

Day 3: Enjoy the beauty of Zion National Park. Known for its diverse geographies such as soaring red sandstone cliffs, emerald pools and rock formations such as “Court of the Patriarchs” and “Great White Throne.”

Day 4: Depart Zion this morning and come to Rhyolite ghost town. Set in the Bullfrog Hills, Rhyolite was once a “rip-roaring” gold mining community. It is now an authentic ghost town. Nearby are the huge outdoor sculptures created by Belgian artists at the Goldwell Open Air Museum.

Day 5: Spend your day at Death Valley National Park. Begin the day at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to learn the history of this fascinating park. Then stop at the ruins of the Harmony Borax Works. You will also stop at Badwater Basin, Devil’s Golf Course, Zabriskie Point and Stovepipe Wells.

Day 6: Before leaving the park, stop at Father Crowley Vista Point. Come to Manzanar National Historic Site. Later, arrive in Palm Springs, a desert resort city once famous for its restoring springs and health tourism.

Day 7: Begin the day with an exciting journey aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. See the rugged Chino Canyon and Coachella from the top of San Jacinto Peak.

Day 8: This morning there is a group transfer to Palm Springs International Airport for flights back to Colorado Springs.

*$3649 per person, double occupancy. Please add $1379 for a single occupancy. Price includes roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, 8-day fully escorted tour aboard a luxury motorcoach, 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners, all taxes and surcharges. Deposit of $200 per person is due to secure your reservation; optional travel insurance is $250 per person.

Dec. 29, 2023-Jan. 5, 2024

$2,985 PER PERSON*

From traditions and music to exclusive culinary masterpieces, you’ll find the spirit of the season at each river bend

Day 1: Depart Colorado Springs and arrive in New Orleans. Gaze at the spectacular sights of New Orleans from the comfort of a luxury coach on an unforgettable 3-hour city tour.

Day 2: Trace the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain and Great River Road en route to Oak Alley Plantation. After your day in New Orleans, board your lovely ship and depart down the mighty Mississippi.

Day 3: In Nottoway, Louisiana you will visit the estate of sugarcane magnate Randolph Nottoway. You’ll also visit the charming town of White Castle. This evening, we’ll ring in the New Year aboard our lovely ship!

Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture.

Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of historic homes.

Day 6: Vicksburg blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this port carries a history unlike any other!

Day 7: Today is a river cruising day.

Day 8: As we port in New Orleans, we say goodbye to Southern Charm and depart for the airport for our flight home.

*Price includes: Interior Stateroom - $2685 per person/double occupancy, roundtrip airfare from Colorado Springs, pre-cruise hotel, 7-day escorted cruise, all meals/drinks onboard the ship, all transfers, all tours as described, all taxes and surcharges.

Turkey’s Sights & Delights

Days 1 & 2: Depart Colorado Springs, arrive in Turkey, check-in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Day 3: Start your tour in Istanbul. Your city tour of Istanbul includes the Hippodrome Roman, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Topkapi Palace and finally end at the Grand Bazaar.

Day 4: Depart for a visit to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest shrines ever built. A highlight of the day will be the scenic cruise on the Bosphorus by private boat. Sail past the medieval hilltop fortress of Rumeli. Afterwards drive to Ankara, the capital of Turkey.

Day 5: Start exploring the capital city of Turkey with the Anatolian Civilizations Museum where you will have the chance to discover the archeological findings that belong to Hittites, Urartians, Phrygians and many other civilizations which had left traces in the cradle of civilizations, Anatolia.

Day 6: Explore Cappadocia with its unique landscapes formed by erosions of winds and water. Continue to Pasabag Valley. Your next stop is Kaymakli Underground City, a subterranean settlement composed of troglodytic cave dwellings providing shelter for early Christians protecting themselves from invaders. Continue to the rockcarved natural citadel of Uchisar promising a superb view of the region from its top. The last stop of today’s touring before returning to the hotel is Avanos, the famous town of Cappadocia that was established by the Hittites on the riverbanks of Halys River.

Day 7: You will be driven to Konya that was called Iconium during the Roman period and was an important post for Roman legion and control of the trade routes of antiquity.

Day 8: Start your exploration with Hierapolis founded during the Hellenistic period as a control point of trading routes connecting East to West.

Day 9: Explore the timeless city of Ephesus where history and archaeology will offer you their majesty with incredible richness.

Day 10: Depart from the hotel to explore the Greco-Roman city of Pergamon famous for its Asclepion, the ancient medical center of which its purpose was most like a spa of the 19th century. Leaving the Asclepion, you will see the Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, and the Temples of Athena, Trajan and Dionysus. Continue your drive to the very well known ancient city of Troy. You will be thrilled by the ancient city that witnessed the battle of heroes.

Day 11: You will be driven to Istanbul. Your scenic drive will first take you to Gallipoli, the site of the incredible battle played out here during World War I.

8 COVER STORY

Meet the Rock Stars of Colorado Springs’ Music Scene

John and Cindy Hooton believe live music should be easily enjoyed by everyone—that’s what makes a Stargazers’ concert unlike any other

Be

It’s fun to buy new seeds and plant them like crazy, but the best garden comes from the best plan. Follow these tips for steady crop yields this season Harmonizing

Forget

12 Recipe: Herbed Spanish Omelet

Save the morning of your brunch get-together for dishes that are best served fresh, like this savory omelet

20 Lee County, Florida Leaves a Lasting Impression

Compared to the glitz and glitter of Miami, I found Lee County to be a lesser-known, but no less inviting, jewel of the Sunshine State

22 Let’s Pump You Up!

Do women over 50 really need weight training as part of their workout routine? The short answer is yes!

Mom often quipped how she hoped one day to be reunited with her canine companions in heaven. But not everyone

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Once, twice, three times a senior

Inthis tassel-turning, hat-tossing month of “Pomp and Circumstance,” I pay homage to all the seniors out there, on their way to life’s next steps. Work. School. A gap year. Whatever it is, something awaits on the other side of the diploma.

When I was a senior in high school, I was beyond ready for what was ahead. When I look back at the teetery, high-heeled sandals peeking out from under my burgundy robe, I’m relieved I made it across the stage without wiping out to accept the handshake and the document signifying my future was now.

When my mom suggested that going to college within a 500-mile radius might make life easier, I didn’t even think of protesting. I took a compass and the atlas and drew a circle from the tiny black dot of my hometown to what the map scale said was 500 miles, considering all the options within that circle of possibility. My freshman year, I enrolled 350 miles east, in Indiana. Then I transferred and headed 310 miles south to the Kansas City area for the remaining years.

As a senior in college, I didn’t yearn to leave and conquer. After the initial shock wore off and I realized I really did have to study that much, I grew to like academic life. It wasn’t always idyllic—see last month’s column on typing papers on a typewriter! But there was a safety and rhythm in reading, writing papers and test-taking. I might have gone on to grad school if it weren’t for the pesky detail of colleges having the nerve to charge tuition.

These two senior experiences were only four years apart. Then there was a Grand Canyon-sized gap between the next time I would be a senior, as in citizen. It was a time of estab -

lishing a career, moving to Colorado Springs (yay!), buying a couple houses and welcoming four children, three dogs, two cats, one guinea pig and too many hamsters to count. (Not all at once, thankfully!)

One minute you’re teaching your children how to ride a bike and the next minute, you’re in a car clutching the door for dear life as they pursue driving privileges with gleeful youthful abandon.

The years raced by with marriage, meals, jobs, homework, piano lessons, outgrown clothes and a hospitalization that brought us all to our knees—and then you’re 50.

It’s hard to think of yourself as a senior when you first get there. As I took my time starting a family, I still had teenagers at home, along with a newly minted single status. It’s a gradual process that looks different for all of us.

Now, my nest has mostly emptied. I’m delighted by senior discounts, but after years of not being the right age, I’m still not in the habit of asking for them. Sometimes our health is a gentle reminder of the years ticking by. I’ll likely need a knee replacement or two at some future point. There are many unknowns.

But I’m intrigued by this third senior stage of life, by the openness to what’s next that wasn’t possible in my younger achieving, managing, doing days.

Here in these pages and out in our community, I see seniors with stories, abilities that matter and personalities that belie their years. They— you—bring me joy: marching toward life’s next phase, getting your diploma from the school of hard knocks and thriving anyway and graduating to years of possibility, presence and hopefully, peace. Congratulations!

You don’t even need to wear a dorky hat to achieve that. ■

As a 65 year old myself, thanks for all the tips in Life after 50!

- Suzy S.

Where can I pick up a copy of Life After 50? I prefer not to read it online. Great magazine. Thank you!

- Joan M.

Rhonda: Thanks for reading, Joan! It depends on where you live, as we distribute the magazine at more than 300 locations in El Paso County. Safeway and thrift stores like ARC and Goodwill are all great spots to find the magazine. Soon, we’ll have a map of locations on our new website! But more on that in the next month or two.

RE: Life After 50 will become the BEACON Please don’t change the name of Life After 50. When I began getting older, I saw Life After 50 and thought there will be articles that will interest me. I never would have picked it up if it was titled “Beacon.” I moved from Colorado Springs to Oregon but I didn’t want to lose the magazine so I subscribed. I’m 94 and look forward to every issue!

- Darlene A.

The BEACON suits me! [An] excellent beacon for my hopes!

- E. S.

In the March issue, I found an error. In Fun After 50, under Silver Key Tri-Lakes Senior Center, the correct spelling is Mah Jongg. It is not a solitaire matching game…it is a tile game for multiple players. I’ve played Mah Jongg for 15 years and have been teaching it for the past four. Looking forward to the conversion of Life After 50 to BEACON.

- Lee B.

Laughing Matters

Jil Goebel is a gem! My wife and I howled as we read her pithy and insightful one-liners. Is she a local gal? Does she do a stand-up routine anywhere around here? We just love her. Thanks so much for so many good giggles.

- Jonathan J.

IT’S HARD TO THINK OF YOURSELF AS A SENIOR WHEN YOU FIRST GET THERE.

There’s no place like the

By Rhonda Wray

Seniors reminiscing with the pop tunes of their teen years. Conga lines 200 people long. Various cultures together, grooving to live music. It all happens at Stargazers Theatre.

It was written in the stars that John and Cindy Hooton would operate a local music venue, with John’s knowledge and love of music and Cindy’s warm hospitality. They enjoyed concerts in Southern California, Arizona and Texas, prior to moving to the Springs in 1988, where “the music scene was almost nonexistent,” said John, 69.

They hoped to expand their new hometown’s music culture.

A DISTINCTIVE BUILDING

John first went to the domeshaped building at 10 S. Parkside Drive for his son’s school play. Though it was run down and owned by the Colorado Opry at the time, he was intrigued.

Architect Vincent G. Raney designed the futurist rounded movie theater with the then-state-of-theart curved screen in 1969, along with a dozen or so others. The rest of these theaters have been razed except one in Hollywood.

One day a “For Sale” sign caught their son Evan’s eye.

“He said, ‘Dad, your building is for sale,’” John remembered.

He and Cindy went there “just to look.” Eventually they purchased the

Jetsons-meets-planetarium-looking building that had been part of Colorado Springs’ landscape for decades.

“I looked up at the stars on the ceiling and said, ‘We’re going to call it Stargazers,’” Cindy, 63, recalled, envisioning a future when audiences would also gaze at the stars performing on the stage.

STARGAZER’S CONCERTS ARE BETTER

After a costly and longer-thanplanned renovation, Stargazers opened for business in February 2009. Since then, it’s hosted more than 2,160 events—concerts as well as fundraisers for causes from Wounded Warriors to Toys for Tots. That’s over 150 events per year for the 550-seat venue.

“There are music fans and then there are Stargazers fans. They support what we do,” John said.

The Hootons believe concerts shouldn’t be saved just for special occasions, which is why they keep

The venue now known as Stargazers started as the United Artist 150 Cinerama Theater. The curved screen was considered state-of-theart when it opened in 1969.

ticket prices low with no fees for parking. Additionally, by staying in the Springs instead of driving to Denver for concerts, concertgoers save gas, time and money.

“We’re trying to enjoy the rest of our lives,” John said, of himself and other seniors.

Owing to the venue’s start as a cinema, every seat is a good seat, and you won’t have a tricky near-vertical climb to get to it.

Once there, you can enjoy a convenient and tasty pre-show dinner, with BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, chicken teriyaki rice bowls, nachos, Cindy’s homemade white chicken chili (seasonally) and monster cupcakes on the menu. The bar offers a lineup of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Stargazers’ concerts start earlier—often by 7 p.m.—and end in

“WE WEREN’T EVEN HALFWAY THROUGH THE SHOW BEFORE THE AUDIENCE WAS DANCING AND SINGING.”

good time.

“You can be home and in your jammies by 11,” Cindy enthused.

LOCAL AND LIVE

Audiences love a nostalgic look back at popular music of their youth where, as Cindy said, “everyone knows the words.”

The Hootons frequently book tribute bands of the ’70s. They approached their first, a Led Zeppelin tribute, with some trepidation.

“We didn’t know what to expect,” Cindy admitted. “But we weren’t even halfway through that show before the audience was dancing and singing, and strangers were talking to each other.”

Tribute band The Long Run plays hits by The Eagles.

“They’ve done a lot of work to become that sound, and it’s admirable,” John observed. “These guys have worked it!”

Not only are audience members

quite often over 50, but several performers are too. Paul Kantner from Jefferson Starship enjoyed a five-decade career and was still rocking in his 70s when he performed at Stargazers.

With age, it’s “easier for musicians to form a community,” John reflected. “They are collaborative. They have an attitude of, ‘Let’s jam and have fun!’”

Woven among the local talent are recognizable names.

“In Stargazers’ early days we hosted Richie Havens, the guy that kicked off Woodstock,” John said of the 1969 rock festival’s opening act. “He played an acoustic set, then stayed until 1:30 a.m. signing autographs and taking photos. He was one of the kindest people.”

Other big names to grace Stargazers’ stage include Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Janis Ian, Karla Bonoff and John Leon Russell.

Stargazers’ concerts feature country, blues, rock, jazz, folk, bluegrass, Americana and mixed genres. John hears “pretty much” every concert, though he’s likely to be tending bar as he listens.

“I’m there 100 percent of the time, and Cindy is there about 95

percent of the time,” he said.

Stargazers comes equipped with two green rooms, where performers prep for their shows and enjoy Cindy’s delicious home-cooked dinners.

“We make sure they are welcomed, well-fed, well-paid and are able to achieve good sound,” John said. “Then they give their best to our audiences.”

Without great sound, a venue is nothing. The round room presents some challenges, but when the sound engineers get it right and “conquer the dome,” it’s glorious.

EARLY MUSICAL INFLUENCES

Young John connected with relatives through music, from Ella Fitzgerald to Frank Sinatra. Winning tickets on the radio led to his first concert at 16, with his mom in tow.

“It was Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass,” the Canada native recalled, “at a bar called New Penelope in Montreal,” which featured important names in 1960s rock, blues, folk and jazz.

“It was really loud,” John remembered. “To my great surprise, Mom’s smiling the whole time!”

California girl Cindy’s first concert featured Rod Stewart at Anaheim stadium.

“It was in 1976, maybe? My girlfriend and I ditched school to go,” said Cindy.

John marveled at how the “one person, one guitar” singer-songwriters of the mid-’60s to early ’70s rocked the world—and was inspired to join their ranks. He regularly participates in Stargazers’ songwriter showcases. Whether playing, singing, songwriting or hosting a concert, it’s all about the music. ■

UPCOMING CONCERTS

Saturday, May 6

Rush Archives - A tribute to Rush

Wednesday, May 10

Duplessly & The Violins of the World

Friday, May 12

Starburn - ’60s and ’70s rock

Saturday, May 13

Joseph Hall, Rock ’n’ Remember Elvis

Friday, May 19

The Long Run - A tribute to The Eagles

Saturday, May 20

Last Men on EarthClassic Rock Dance Party

Thursday, May 25

The Elders - Celtic Rock

Saturday, June 3

Still the Same - A tribute to Bob Seger

Tickets at StargazersTheatre.com

John and Cindy have been known to join an artist like Ted Vigil (A Tribute to John Denver) on stage.

Cindy posing with Yesterday, a tribute to the Beatles.

Cindy hangs out backstage with Zeppelin Alive, a Colorado Springsbased Led Zeppelin tribute band.

The Long Run, Colorado’s tribute to The Eagles, are one of Stargazer’s frequent performers.

Harmonizing fellas sing a cappella

By Karin Hill

For one local senior, singing in a men’s chorus after retirement restored a love for music he hadn’t experienced in decades. For a younger man, it gave him a sense of community as he was going through a divorce.

These are just two of the stories from the America the Beautiful (ATB) Chorus, an all-male barbershop-style singing group in Colorado Springs. The singers come from all backgrounds. Some even join with very little music experience.

The America the Beautiful Chorus gives male vocalists a voice

But what they have in common are an appreciation for music and the camaraderie they develop as they master new pieces to perform for the community. At weekly rehearsals, they leave their differences at the door and join their voices together in this effort.

“We don’t do politics, we don’t do religion, we don’t do contro -

versy,” said Tim Simmons, 79, a member for 25 years.

His sentiment echoes the group’s mission: to bring people together in harmony and fellowship to enrich lives through singing.

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS

The ATB Chorus began in 1946 in affiliation with the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), an international community. Before 2001, the chorus was known by other monikers, including the Highland Harmonizers.

The chorus’ style of music doesn’t necessarily fit preconceived notions of barbershop—with men in striped jackets, straw hats or images from famous musicals.

Chorus members use sheet music, but much of their practice comes by listening to part-specific audio recordings for lead, bass, tenor or baritone. Because harmonizing is a vital element of barbershop, learning to sing by ear is key.

Although songs are always per-

formed in an a cappella barbershop style, the selections are varied— from traditional choral pieces to songs by The Beatles.

“Forget ‘The Music Man’—that’s not what we’re doing,” said Simmons.

Barbershop is a “truly American musical art form,” added Chorus Director Jim Clark. It dates back to the late 1800s, but the style continues to maintain loyal followers and gain new enthusiasts worldwide.

AWARD WINNERS

Clark, 49, brings a lifetime of experience in the genre, having grown up with a barbershop-singing father. He is also a BHS International Quartet champion.

The chorus has won the Rocky Mountain District Most Improved Chorus award three times since he took the helm in 2010. His “day job” is director of development for Harmony Foundation International, whose mission is to connect people through charitable giving to enrich lives through singing.

Numerous members have formed quartets, with some winning prestigious competitions.

“The Hi-Chords” quartet won

The chorus performs “The Star-Spangled Banner” before an Air Force Academy Hockey Game. Photo courtesy of America the Beautiful Chorus.

the Central States District championship in 1963. “Rockies IV” won the Rocky Mountain District Senior Division Championship, followed by an International Senior Quartet Championship in 1993. “Velcro,” a current quartet, won the 2019 Rocky Mountain District Senior Quartet Championship.

WHY THEY SING

Because of COVID-19, shows were put on hold for much of 2020 and 2021. The pandemic and its many indirect impacts was difficult, and the group got a little smaller.

But last year the chorus got back in full swing with successful shows

chorus. He attended his first ATB Chorus concert in 2015 and was hooked.

“That was the first time I’d heard it, and it was just fantastic,” Doyle said.

Any males interested in the chorus, from teenagers on up, are invited to rehearsals. They can just sit and listen or try to join in before considering membership, said Clark.

George Mammarella, 32, joined shortly after moving to Colorado Springs a few years ago. He had been active in band and musical theatre in college; he stumbled across the chorus while looking for activities in his new city. Auditions

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at the Flying W Ranch, where the men sang their signature song, “America the Beautiful,” and Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies.” The chorus held its annual Christmas concert, sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” at U.S. Air Force Academy sporting events and made appearances at assisted living facilities, Veterans Day programs, and other community events.

The chorus is currently preparing for its next big show, “Why We Sing,” with special guests After Hours, the 2018 BHS International Champion Quartet.

Charlie Snyder, 83, a member for 40 years, said he is eager to show the community that the chorus is back in full force after the COVID era, promising a show “as good as any we’ve done in the past.”

JOYS OF JOINING

Dennis Doyle, 65, had no barbershop experience before joining the

are also laid back, he added.

“I just showed up one day,” Mammarella said.

Rehearsals are on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at Harmony Hall, 3815 N. Academy Blvd. (The facility is also home to Velvet Hills Chorus, a women’s group.)

“We’re always open to people coming out and singing with us,” said Doyle. ■

WHY WE SING

Don’t miss this concert featuring America the Beautiful Chorus

June 10 • 2 & 7 p.m. Sunrise Church, 2655 Briargate Blvd.

Tickets: $15 in advance & $20 at the door.

Purchase tickets at ATBChorus. com or AmericaTheBeautifulChorus on Facebook.

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The singers’ voices ring out as director Jim Clark leads them in rehearsing, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”

Filing for social security disability or

Experienced attorneys providing expert legal advice in:

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Herbed Spanish Omelet

Recipe courtesy of American Institute for Cancer research

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced or shredded

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup diced red onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 large whole eggs, lightly beaten

2 egg whites, lightly beaten

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives salt, to taste (optional) fresh herb sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Place potatoes in large pan. Cover with water. Bring to boil and cook, uncovered, 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand about 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Drain well. In deep, 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic. Cook about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add potatoes and cook 5 minutes.

Combine whole eggs and egg whites. Stir in parsley, basil and chives. Season with salt to taste, if desired. Pour mixture over potatoes in hot skillet. Reduce heat and cook, uncovered, about 10 minutes, or until bottom of omelet is golden.

If desired, brown top under toaster oven. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs, if desired. ■

hard.

Grieve your own way

Dear Laird: I am 70 years old and was my husband’s dementia caregiver for seven years. He died six months ago. Recently, I found someone I enjoy being with. We share many interests. I do have some guilt about disrespecting my husband, but I enjoy feeling alive again. In addition to the guilt, some of my friends criticize me. They say I should wait. Should I give him up? Signed, Katherine

Katherine: Your friends, out of mistaken love, want to protect you. Unfortunately, they are not helping. Your guilt and your grief are honest, and no one should tell you what to do.

Everyone who loses a loved one must learn how to rebuild their life and keep the departed in their thoughts. This is the central challenge of grief and it takes time.

Some caregivers feel relieved. Others sacrifice a good part of their own life to care for another. They need time to process.

Most spousal caregivers miss the intimacy that is lost; the touch, the laugh, the closeness of living with another. You deserve to find someone.

I have a friend who cared for his wife with multiple sclerosis for 22 years. Nine months after her death, he was engaged. His friends were worried. They couldn’t imagine doing that so soon. My friend’s response was direct: “Isn’t 22 years of grief enough?” They have been happily married for nine years.

At the heart of the matter is this little piece of advice: “Everyone should grieve in their own way.” All friends who mean well should support that.

Neither course of action is right or wrong. And in neither case is your husband’s memory desecrated. That someone would care enough to dedicate a big piece of their own life to care for a loved one is a massive show of respect

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

BY LAIRD LANDON, PhD

AT THE HEART OF THE MATTER IS THIS LITTLE PIECE OF ADVICE: “EVERYONE SHOULD GRIEVE IN THEIR OWN WAY.” ALL FRIENDS WHO MEAN WELL SHOULD SUPPORT THAT.

and genuine love. That is a fact that often is not taken in consideration when someone says to you, “Maybe you should wait a little longer.”

Family-Caregiver.org has two short videos on caregiver grief. Additionally, the website lists a Zoom support group called Grieving After Dementia, which meets on the first and third Mondays of the month from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ■

For more caregiver support groups, see Support Groups on page 35.

Send your questions to Laird in care of Life After 50, or email him at Laird@Family-Caregiver.org

Jennifer L. Erickson, MHA, BA Payer Resource Case Manager

Red, green, fruity, spicy or mild – send us your best salsa recipe to share with our readers! We’ll follow your recipe to a T as we recreate each one, then we’ll taste it, rate it and publish our favorites (along with photos) in the August issue. Our judges will select the top winner in each category

7

reasons salsa is “muy buena” for your health

Salsa is a powerhouse of nutrition that can help improve your overall health. This low-calorie and low-fat condiment is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, its ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

If you want to eat healthy at a Mexican restaurant, salsa is an excellent snack as long as you can keep your chip consumption under control. Better yet, substitute chips for vegetables. You can also add salsa as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or add it to salads and soups. This Mexican favorite is a versatile and healthier alternative to high-sugar or high-sodium condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise or barbecue sauce.

Here’s a list of the seven basic ingredients used in most salsas and a breakdown of their health benefits.

1. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants like lycopene, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

2. Onions contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may help lower blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

3. Chili peppers like jalapeño or serrano contain capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation and improve digestive health. This means that salsa can add flavor to your

BY SUZY COHEN

meals and help manage pain and inflammation.

4. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have antibacterial properties. It may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

5. Garlic has been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol ratios, boost immune function and help with both H. pylori and methane-dominant SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

6. Lime juice is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help boost immune function and reduce inflammation.

7. While too much salt can be harmful, a moderate amount is important for regulating fluid balance, muscle function and nerve function.

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious condiment, look no further. Salsa’s nutrient-packed ingredients and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great addition to any healthy diet. It can also help you manage your weight, as it makes you feel full for longer. ■

SEND US YOUR BEST SALSA RECIPES!

Whether it’s red or green salsa, pineapple salsa or cabbage salsa, send us your best salsa recipe for a chance to win gift cards and cash prizes! Our staff’s favorite recipes will be featured as the center spread in our August issue. (See ad on left)

For

sign up for Suzy’s newsletter at SuzyCohen.com

Absolutely floored: remodeling and cats

Dear Ms. Kitty: We’re remodeling our house this year. I’m worried my cats will be stressed with all the chaos. Is there anything I can do to help them cope?

—Building in Briargate

Dear Building: Territory is important to cats, so changes in their environment can be stressful. Bringing unfamiliar workers into your house can be scary. Cats can also easily get lost, especially if doors or windows are left unsecured. They can become so frightened they run outside to get away from the noise. You can minimize their stress—and yours—by including them in your plans. If your remodel is minor, here are two tips to help you weather the project. If it’s extensive, you might consider boarding them or finding a familiar and trusted friend or relative they can stay with.

SAFE AND SOUND

The first step is to make sure your cats feel safe. If they already have a safe room where they retreat when scared, start there. If they don’t, consider creating a new safe room as far away from the construction as possible.

The safe room needs to feel secure and include everything they need to stay there all day. Add at least one litterbox per cat, set up food and water stations and make sure they have familiar bedding to tuck into. Offer them extra hiding places by draping a chair, adding beds behind furniture or better yet, adding boxes. You know how cats love boxes! Toys, a little catnip and food puzzles will help make it enticing.

Before construction starts, spend time in the room with them

daily. Work on your laptop or stream your shows and schedule in regular playtime. Feed them there at the same time every day. A white noise device can help cancel out power tools and other loud sounds. As construction starts and they need to stay locked in their room, they should be less concerned about it if you’ve spent regular time in there with them.

changes to their familiar spaces can feel like a home invasion.

Outgoing cats who like hanging out with strangers present a different set of problems. You may still need to confine them to keep them out of construction dangers. For shy kitties, try making your work crew more familiar. Invite those involved in the project to plan it at your home so you can introduce your cats ahead of time. Ask the crew to play with your cats and give them treats to share.

Our charitable dental clinic continues to provide quality, ethical dental care with financial support available for any adults, seniors and Veterans who have difficulty affording dental care. Please call our office for details of our new location

While the project is underway, post a big sign on the door that says, “DO NOT ENTER.” If you think that might be missed, seal the door with barricade tape when you leave.

If you can let them back out at night, do a construction check first. Seal up any holes in walls or floors and cover sharp materials. Make sure all paints and stains are dry and cans are covered.

STRANGER DANGER

The second step is to ease their fear of unfamiliar humans. Allowing strangers inside to make big, noisy

ASK MS. KITTY

If the remodeling project is relatively minor, allowing your cats to reclaim their spaces when the workers leave on weekends may help them adjust. They’ll be able to mark appropriately by rubbing on new surfaces rather than spraying them.

But if your cats show you they are scared by staying hidden, wait until the project is completed before letting them out.

Once the remodeling is done, you will probably be eager to make the new space your own—and so will they. Place familiar equipment, like cat trees and nesting spots, in the remodeled spaces. Let the cats come out at their own pace. Feed and play with them in the newly updated places.

Show them how happy you are to have your home remodeled and enjoy it with them! ■

This free helpline is offered by Happy Cats Haven and Colorado Cats Boarding. Submit questions at HappyCatsHaven.org

SOME REST AND PEACE (A TRUE STORY)

Submitted by Frankie Roland

My sister had two children who were close in age. What one didn’t think of getting into, the other one did.

One day she’d had it after discovering the kids had just run muddy hands under the wet sheets on the clothesline. She rinsed the sheets again and hung them, then sat down at the kitchen table and said, “Some rest and peace! That’s all I want—some rest and peace!”

The kids behaved the rest of the day. At bedtime, their dad tucked them in and put some money on their nightstand.

“Tomorrow is Mother’s Day,” he said. ”We’ll go out and buy Mom a nice present.”

But early the next morning, the

kids snuck down the hill to Mrs. Pimperton’s general store to shop on their own.

When they approached the cash register with their gift, Mrs. Pimperton looked at them, surprised.

“You sure your mom wants this for Mother’s Day?” she asked.

“Yeah, she said so,” they replied. After getting it up the hill and into the house, they couldn’t wait to show their mom, so they opened the bedroom door and shouted, “Happy Mother’s Day!”

My sister sat up in bed and saw her Mother’s Day gift—a plastic floral wreath on a three-legged wire stand with the words “Rest in Peace.”

MEMORY PROBLEMS

Submitted by Ben Kuckel

An elderly couple was having trou-

ble remembering things, so they decided to go to their doctor to make sure nothing was wrong with them. When they arrived at the doctor’s office, they explained to the doctor the problems they were having.

After checking the couple out, the doctor told them that they were physically okay but might want to start writing things down, making notes to help them remember things. The couple thanked the doctor and left.

Later that night while watching TV, the old man got up from his chair and his wife asked, “Where are you going?”

He replied, “To the kitchen.” She asked, “Will you get me a bowl of ice cream?”

“Sure.”

Then his wife asked him, “Don’t you think you should write it down so you can remember it?”

“No, I can remember that.”

“Well, I also would like some strawberries on top. You had better write that down ’cause I know you’ll

forget that,” his wife said.

“I can remember that,” he assured her. “You want a bowl of ice cream with strawberries.”

She replied, “Well, I would also like whipped cream on top. I know you will forget that. You had better write it down.”

Slightly irritated, he said, “I don’t need to write that down.” He went into the kitchen.

After about 20 minutes, he returned from the kitchen and handed her a plate of bacon and eggs.

She stared at the plate for a moment and asked, “Where’s my toast?”

FORTUNE TELLER

Submitted by Bob Brezeale

A redneck named Bubba opens the door of a fortune teller’s shop. The fortune teller says, “Come on in, Bubba.”

Startled, Bubba asks, “How’d you know my name?”

The fortune teller replies, “I’m clairvoyant.”

Bubba says, “Nice to meet you,

Clair. But how’d you know my name?”

MY MOTHER WAS SO WISE… Submitted by J. Lawien

My mother taught me to appreciate a job well done.

“If you’re going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.”

My mother taught me religion.

“You better pray that will come out of the carpet.”

My mother taught me about time travel.

“If you don’t straighten up, I’m going to knock you into the middle of next week!”

My mother taught me logic.

“Because I said so, that’s why.”

My mother taught me more logic.

“If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you’re not going to the store with me.”

My mother taught me foresight.

“Make sure you wear clean underwear in case you’re in an accident.”

My mother taught me irony.

“Keep crying, and I’ll give you something to cry about.”

My mother taught me about the science of osmosis.

“Shut your mouth and eat your supper.”

My mother taught me about contortionism.

“Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck?!”

My mother taught me about stamina.

“You’ll sit there until all that spinach is gone.”

My mother taught me about weather.

“This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it.”

My mother taught me about hypocrisy.

“If I told you once, I’ve told you a

million times. Don’t exaggerate!”

My mother taught me the circle of life.

“I brought you into this world and I can take you out.”

My mother taught me about behavior modification.

“Stop acting like your father!”

My mother taught me about envy.

“There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don’t have wonderful parents like you do.”

My mother taught me about anticipation.

“Just wait until we get home.”

My mother taught me about receiving.

“You are going to get it when you get home!”

My mother taught me medical science.

“If you don’t stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way.”

My mother taught me ESP.

“Put your sweater on; don’t you think I know when you are cold?”

My mother taught me humor.

“When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don’t come running to me.”

My mother taught me how to become an adult.

“If you don’t eat your vegetables, you’ll never grow up.”

My mother taught me genetics.

“You’re just like your father.”

My mother taught me about my roots.

“Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?”

My mother taught me wisdom.

“When you get to be my age, you’ll understand.”

My mother taught me about justice.

“One day you’ll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!” ■

$180 a

month for healthy food, OTC products and utility bills

Got Medicaid? Got Medicare? Get more benefits with UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete®.

If you have Medicaid and Medicare, you could get more help to cover your care and costs. UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete comes with a credit that will be loaded to your UnitedHealthcare UCard every month for covered groceries, OTC products, and utility bills. Use the card in-store or online to buy healthy food, produce or pantry boxes, pain relievers, cold remedies and more. Pay utility bills like electricity, gas or water online, over the phone or at your local Walmart MoneyCenter.

Use your healthy food, over-the-counter and utility bill credit on your UCard to:

• Buy healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, dairy products and water

• Choose from thousands of OTC products, like toothpaste, first aid necessities, cough drops, bladder control pads and more

• Pay utility bills like electricity, gas, water and internet

review your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for more information Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. All Rights Reserved. © 2023 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved. Y0066_220810_124341_M SPRJ79713_H0624-001-000

Are you looking for something meaningful to do?

Your time and wisdom are valuable. Become a Foster Grandparent Classroom Volunteer. You can share your skills and experience while children shower you with curiosity and hugs. Get involved with Volunteers of America’s Foster Grandparent Program.

Could you use a little extra money each month?

• Do you love children and enjoy spending time with them?

• Are able to volunteer 15-40 hours per week helping children learn and succeed?

• Are you 55 years old or older? Do you live in El Paso County?

• Is your income under $27,180 for a single person household, or under $36,620 for a two-person household?

• Could you use an extra $200 - $400+ per month, plus travel reimbursement?

If you answered YES to these questions, call (719) 632-1448 todayto get involved in the Foster Grandparent Program.

Be the artist of your own garden

Now that May has arrived, it’s time to start planting!

Not so fast! It’s fun to buy new seeds and plant them like crazy, but that doesn’t always result in a steady supply of food throughout the growing season.

The best garden comes from the best plan. That’s why it’s important to create goals for our garden, determine what we want to grow and how much and map it out to maximize space and resources.

For the best crop production yields this season, follow these tips:

STEP 1

MAKE A CHART

Use a monthly calendar or make your own. Write in each crop you plan to grow within the month that it will be harvested.

We tend to load up on July/August/September crops and forget about June and October, and all of winter. Listing crops by month identifies the need for some quick crops for June and early July and the option of root crops and win ter greens for fall dinners. If you plan to preserve the harvest, this helps with kitchen and materials planning as well.

STEP 2

DETERMINE HOW MUCH PRODUCE YOU PLAN TO GROW

If you’ve left bags of zucchini hanging on a neighbor’s doorknob, maybe one squash plant is enough. Do you plan on canning and need a large volume all at once? Do you ferment veggies in stages to stock the pantry, or prefer to harvest cabbage or radishes just periodically?

Many websites and seed cat

alogs can help you determine yield per plant, but I especially recommend the book “How to Grow More Vegetables” by John Jeavons.

Jeavons’ master plant production charts help readers break down crop yields by asking questions like: How good is my soil? How well did I choose the right variety of crop? And how good of a grower am I really?

Some of us have a knack for growing certain plant families, but trying new crops often comes with a learning curve. Jeavons’ master charts take these issues into consideration when determining a realistic yield from each crop.

STEP 3 WRITE DOWN A SCHEDULE

On a dedicated calendar for your garden, note when to seed

(or soon), then mark the calendar to plant the next third in two weeks, then finish out the plot two weeks after that.

Plan for seeding fall roots in July and winter crops by mid-September. Each of these projects should go on the garden calendar so it holds us accountable.

STEP 4 MAP OUT YOUR GARDEN

Now that you have a plan, it’s time to map out your garden. This is where the art of gardening comes in, as our success depends on how well we lay out our garden to maximize soil health and soil depths. Crop rotations ensure we don’t overmine trace minerals or build up diseases or pests. Grouping crops by family makes it easy to rotate

them each year.

Heavy feeders like tomatoes and melons are happy when they grow in a spot where beans and peas were last year. Onions, greens and roots can follow heavy feeders as their

decaying roots are a source of nutrients for these scavenger crops with shallower roots. Legumes follow the scavengers, as they fix nitrogen and attract a host of other beneficial soil microbes. Don’t forget to interplant some edible flowers throughout the garden to encourage pollinators. They also add a jazzy touch to summer pasta salads.

ROW VS. INTERPLANTING

Some crops need good access to pollen, so square-block configurations of the same variety work better than long rows. For example, corn’s success relies on being plant-

GROW WILD

BY BRYAN REED

ed in blocks as the tassels of one plant pollinate its neighbor.

Another consideration when mapping out our gardens is choosing which crops are easily accessible (basil and lettuce) and which take the longest to mature (these can be planted in the back). Intercropping plants together allows deepand shallow-rooted crops to grow together without competition for nutrients or water.

Carrots planted around tomatoes is a classic example of companion planting. (Jeavons’ book lists proven companion plant options, too.) Three Sisters planting takes this idea a functional step further, with corn being the trellis for vining beans that produce nitrogen corn craves. Ring those two with squash plants whose deep roots mine phosphorus and shade the soil for the corn and beans to thrive. Plant radishes in the middle of carrot rows and then harvest them to leave space for the carrots to fill in. Tuck shallow-rooted lettuce just north of deeper-rooted kale, and the kale will provide much-needed shade for the lettuce. ■

May

Send your gardening questions to Bryan in care of Life

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

Lee County, Florida

leaves a lasting impression

By Victor Block

rriving in Lee County, Florida, just weeks after Hurricane Ian devastated the area, I expected the worst, and my first impression supported that fear. Beachfront lots previously occupied by houses were empty, victims of wind and water. Some homes that escaped being obliterated had gaping holes in their roofs which were covered by blue tarpaulins. Piles of debris littered sidewalks.

But to my surprise and delight, concern about how I would spend the next few weeks soon dissipated. Stretches of beach were being reopened to sun worshippers. A few blocks from the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, there were few indications of the big blow that had wreaked havoc along the coast.

I discovered that the appeals of that area of southwest Florida provide a variety of diversions that can fill days and evenings. Compared with the glitz and glitter of Miami and the go-go action at Walt Disney World, I found Lee County to be a lesser-known, but no less inviting, jewel of the Sunshine State. No wonder many “snowbirds” trade the cold for a subtropical climate and make it their winter retreat. I took advantage of both memorable man-made attractions and Mother Nature’s magnificent handiwork to sample some of what the location has to offer.

GIFTS OF THE SEA

The list begins with the setting itself, a tableau of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps and bands of mangroves. Bays, rivers and streams have long played an important role in the local way of life. We spotted a sign that read, “Welcome to the boating lifestyle,” and placards urging residents to “Adopt a canal.”

The Calusa [kuh-LOO-suh] were a Native American people who were drawn to this estuarine environment over 6,000 years ago, when they built shell mound complexes, seasonal campsites and canal systems.

Contact with Spanish explorers and their diseases eventually decimated the indigenous population, but evidence of this chapter of history remains at Mound Key in Estero Bay, the former Calusa capital; the Calusa Heritage Trail, which is lined by informative interpretive signs; and Cabbage Key, where an inn and restaurant sit atop a large shell hill.

The Calusa’s focus on fishing continues today in a state that is ranked among the best in the country for the activity. The year-round warm climate, diverse ecosystems and variety of aquatic settings offer options ranging from deep sea and reef fishing to backcountry and fresh water angling.

Gasparilla

and Sanibel islands are known as the best shelling

Top: Our tour guide describes early phonographs at the Edison Museum. Right: A street sculpture in Fort Myers. Below: Beachgoers do “the Sanibel Stoop” as they search for exotic seashells

Photo by Jordan McQueen / Unsplash.com

THE BIRD ROOKERY SWAMP TRAIL LEADS THROUGH WETLANDS

INHABITED BY ALLIGATORS, OTTERS, BOBCATS AND OTHER WATER AND LAND DWELLERS

spots among a number of them, which makes Lee County a virtual mecca for those seeking to collect mollusks in an assortment of colors, shapes and designs. A familiar site is people of all ages bending over in what is termed the “Sanibel stoop,” picking up exotic shells with imaginative names like Lion’s Paw, Ponderous Ark and Banded Tulip.

SMALL-TOWN CHARM

Visitors interested in the closest things to cities face an equally welcome choice. The county seat of Fort Myers encircles a brick-lined main street, long residential thoroughfares lined by towering royal palm trees and traditional Florida “cracker” houses.

Paintings, metal sculptures and other street art add a touch of whimsey to the scene, and the Edison & Ford Winter Estates relate the fascinating story of two of America’s industrial icons.

Thomas Edison first visited Fort Myers in 1885 and built a winter retreat. Henry Ford came to town at Edison’s invitation in 1914 and bought an adjacent bungalow. Today the complex they share includes botanical gardens and the laboratory in which Edison tested more than 17,000 plants while seeking a substitute for natural rubber. He finally selected goldenrod as most promising. A 15,000-squarefoot museum is packed with his innovative inventions and other displays.

Boca Grande became a winter escape before roads were built for northerners who arrived by train. That time is evoked by old Florida homes and tree-framed streets.

The calm is disrupted each spring by fishermen seeking their luck in one of the best tarpon hideouts in the world.

Bonita Springs, a personal favorite, traces its birth to the mid1800s, but the Calusa had lived in the area long before then.

Banners proclaiming “small town charm,” which are displayed throughout the historic downtown neighborhood, don’t lie. Early 20th century frame cottages and unpretentious food shops that sell local honey, Gulf fish and home-laid quail eggs demonstrate the town’s down-to-earth appeal.

HISTORY & NATURE

Surrounding these towns and historic sites are natural places that warrant a visit. The Bird Rookery Swamp Trail leads through wetlands inhabited by alligators, otters, bobcats and other water and land dwellers and a virtual aviary of colorful, and colorfully named, birds.

The Six Mile Cypress Slough (pronounced slew) Preserve is a narrow wetland which serves as a home and safe travel route for wildlife, including endangered species. A boardwalk provides easy access and convenient viewing areas. ■

If You Go...

For general visitor information

VisitFortMyers.com

239-338-3500

FloridaStateParks.org

239-992-0311

Edison & Ford Winter Estates Museum

EdisonFordWinterEstates.org

239-334-7419

Stay strong with these 6 simple exercises

By Alicia Jones

Here’sa question I hear all the time about fitness over 50: Do women really need weight training as part of their routines, or is it enough to focus on some type of aerobic exercise? The short answer is yes!

As women age, weight training becomes even more important. Having strong, lean muscles ramps up your metabolic rate, which slows down as we age, so you can burn fat.

A recent study found that improvement of muscle performance can lead to a better quality of life in older adults.

The data is clear: if you want a better life, lift!

Lifting weights also helps bone density and keeps them strong, which is a serious concern for women since estrogen levels decline after menopause.

Estrogen is key to enhancing bone density, which is why seniors are more prone to osteoporosis and broken bones if they fall. Loss

Let’s pump you up!

of estrogen also ushers in various health challenges that usually weren’t a concern at a younger age. For example, insulin resistance becomes more prevalent, and the body, unable to regulate insulin production, is at risk of developing

type 2 diabetes. Exercising, however, can help balance your blood sugar as well as your hormones. It will also improve your heart health, since the heart is a muscle. Making it stronger will help stave off heart conditions.

LEGS BACK

STRONGER FROM HEAD TO TOE

Incorporating a workout routine doesn’t have to be complicated. With only six exercises—legs, back, core, chest, triceps and biceps— you can strengthen your entire body. Here’s how:

Squats are excellent as they are a compound movement exercise. When you squat, you’re building leg muscles you need for daily activities such as getting out of a car or chair. You want these everyday motions to feel effortless. Squats work the legs, but also your core, back and overall body for balance.

Rowing exercises are an excellent way to work the back muscles. In this exercise, you squeeze your shoulder blades together as you bow down and slide your elbows along your side while holding two dumbbells. This helps teach your body to pull your shoulders back for good posture, which reduces the risks of shoulder injuries.

CORE

To strengthen your abdominals, do a modified plank using a sofa so you’re not straining your wrists while trying to balance your body. Place your hands on the back of the sofa, arms shoulder-width apart. Slowly bring your legs back until you’re in a straight line from the top of your head to your heels. Hold this position anywhere from 30 seconds to one minute. If it’s too easy, progress to using your sofa seats instead of the back of the sofa. If that gets easy, progress to the floor.

LIVING AT HOME

Face a wall. Place your hands on the wall shoulder width apart and angle your feet out away from the wall so you’re pressing your weight into your arms. Then slide your elbows along your side and squeeze your shoulder blades together as your arms bend until you’re able to kiss the wall. Then push your hands into the wall and straighten your arms. At the last second, give one final push into the wall as you round your shoulders. Be sure to reset your shoulders before you do another repetition.

TRICEPS

Kickbacks are a fast and effective way to work your triceps, the muscles that run along the back of your arms. Standing upright with bent knees, bend at the waist with a straight back, holding one dumbbell. Place one hand on your thigh for support. On an exhale, engage your triceps as you slowly extend your arm back as far as you can, keeping it tight by your side. Pause, then inhale as your return your arm to the starting position

Watch The

Many seniors struggle to stay safe and healthy at home. Some feel isolated and are afraid to ask for help. At Rocky Mountain PACE, we support seniors so they can live at home where they are most comfortable. Health care does not have to feel stressful anymore!

Finish off your routine with some bicep curls. Start standing with a dumbbell in each hand, with your elbows resting at your sides, keeping the knees slightly bent and your belly button drawn towards the spine. Bring the dumbbells all the way up to your shoulders by bending your elbows. At the top, hold for a second by squeezing the muscle then slowly lower.

That’s it! This simple routine of only six exercises is all you need to stay strong and ensure a better quality of life as you age. ■

VIDEO ONLINE! VIDEO ONLINE!

If you’re just starting out, begin with 15 repetitions of each exercise, two to three days a week.

As you become more advanced, you’ll need to cycle yourself through different repetition ranges, which I explain how to do in this video at: BeaconSeniorNews.com

For more exercises for women: aliciajoneshealthyliving.com

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Do all dogs go to heaven? Mom hoped so

By Nick Thomas

Mother’s Day may come and go, but memories of my mother aren’t so fleeting.

My mother was quite a remarkable person. She was admired by all for her hospitality and her extraordinary ability to charm people with spontaneous generosity and kindness.

Her benevolence wasn’t limited to humans. She displayed the greatest affection for animals, especially the many dogs that inhabited (more like ruled) our home throughout the years, including her last dog, Rufus.

Mom would often quip how she hoped one day to be reunited with her earthly canine companion in heaven. With a sly grin, she’d remind us to include a box of dog treats in her final resting place.

But not everyone shared my

mother’s thoughts on the fate of animals. Preachers tell us that the path to heaven involves redemption. But unlike humans, who are apparently awash with wickedness, animals have never sinned. (Note that being a “naughty boy” on grandma’s priceless antique rug does not constitute a biblical sin).

So the question of redemption—and being judged accordingly—seemingly does not apply to animals. Perhaps a more fundamental issue revolves around whether animals possess a soul.

Some time ago, I asked for the thoughts of a former priest at a local Catholic church. He noted there was a distinction between animals and man since “animals do not have immortal souls” because he said God breathed his spirit into man, not animals.

However, some Scriptures sug-

gest that animals might find their way to heaven, such as the account of Elijah being taken up by a chariot pulled by flaming horses in 2 Kings 2:11-12). And in Revelation 19:14, the description of Jesus returning to Earth indicates armies following him from heaven on white steeds.

But hold your horses! Does this mean your favorite childhood pony will be tied to the pearly gates awaiting your arrival? Will dogs be wagging their tails and cats purring sweetly in anticipation of their masters coming home?

A local Baptist pastor told me he too saw no biblical evidence to expect a meet and greet with pets in heaven.

“Animals were created for man’s use and pleasure,” he said. “Man and animals have unbelievable bonding relationships which are wonderful and fulfilling. But animals are to be ruled by man. We have them as pets, as beasts of burden, for food...”

If that’s true, perhaps it’s just as well. Especially for us lifelong meat

SHE WOULD SAY, IF ANY CREATURES WERE DESERVING OF A SPECIAL PLACE OF ETERNAL PEACE AND COMFORT, IT WOULD BE HER BELOVED DOGS.

eaters, no one wants an afterlife confrontation with a herd of angry cows, pigs and turkeys eager for revenge.

But the real issue for people like my mother is the fate of their pets. After all, she would say, if any creatures were deserving of a special place of eternal peace and comfort—a kingdom free from fleas, worms, baths, thunderstorms and vets—it would be her beloved dogs.

Mom left us many years ago, but I still picture her, especially around Mother’s Day, lying in bed knowing she would never play fetch with Rufus again. But her spirits were raised briefly when a nurse allowed us to sneak Rufus into the hospital room late one night for a final farewell.

Propped up on her bed with his paw on her arm, she struggled to pat him. I’m sure it comforted her to believe a welcoming committee of past canine companions was patiently waiting to greet her one more time. ■

Home sweet therapy

Able Care delivers physical and occupational therapies right to your doorstep

By G.L. Yenne

Anything that involves hopping in a car makes some older adults think twice. Whether it’s due to lack of transportation, physical limitations or just trying to muster enough mental motivation, driving— and even riding along—is not always a simple matter.

“I wish we’d had home physical therapy when my mom was alive,” said Lynn Peier, founder of Able Care Mobile Therapy. “She would’ve gotten stronger and more independent.”

After being discharged from the hospital, Peier’s mother was supposed to continue with physical therapy, but she balked at the idea of depending on someone else for transportation.

“She didn’t want to bother me for rides to the doctor, to church, for shopping and therapy, so she left the therapy out,” said Peier, 57.

HOME IS THERAPEUTIC

When Peier started Able Care Mobile Therapy in 2013, it was the first outpatient rehabilitation service in Colorado Springs.

Able Care is an out-patient rehabilitation group providing compassionate physical and occupational therapy house calls to patients. Therapists have a range of expe -

rience, education, skills and specialized certifications, which helps ensure that every patient receives the individualized care they need.

“Our therapists specialize in fall prevention, pain relief, post-operative therapy, help with activities of daily living, range of motion and equipment assessments all in the comfort of the patient’s home,” Peier added.

Therapy at home helps with the rehab and recovery process after an injury or hospital stay, which greatly improves patient quality of life.

Able Care therapists also help patients develop and maintain their independence by assessing their living situation to determine if stair lifts, ramps, accessible systems or home modifications are needed. Additionally, they offer end-oflife coping skills along with cognitive care, and can co-treat along with hospice to make a patient more comfortable.

CONNECTING WITH LOCAL ALLIES

Out of the 25 therapists that work for Able Care, seven are in Colorado Springs and the rest are in Denver.

“Administrator extraordinaire” Felicia Stockstill, 53, has worked

with Peier for two years following a 35-year career in the medical field.

“In 2021, I was on severe burnout,” said Stockstill. “Now I wake up every day with a brand-new purpose and a spring in my step.”

One of the positives outcomes of COVID-19 is the growing number of in-home services, such as mobile dentists, speech therapists and more.

“Hospitals are now discharging patients sooner and sooner,” Peier lamented, “and we want to be ready to provide any service needed to our in-home patients.”

Able Care wants to expand their community focus by working with locally run home health agencies and organizations that offer companion care and free services, in addition to those that take private pay and Medicaid.

In the office, Stockstill has a Rolodex of trusted handyman contacts.

“Since COVID set us free, we have had fun getting to know others in our local community,” Peier said. “We know who to refer to and we know who will be on your doorstep.”

HOMEBOUND STATUS NOT REQUIRED

In Colorado, residents may seek physical therapy without a doctor’s referral. Services are covered under Medicaid, Medicare Part B and many PPO insurances.

“Homebound” status is not required for physical therapy house calls, and Able Care completes all the paperwork.

To reach Able Care Mobile Therapy with questions about services or therapists, or to learn how to get started with a personalized plan of care, call 719-629-6796 or look up AbleCareTherapy.com. ■

Able Care Mobile Therapy owner Lynn Peier and Able Care’s office administrator, Felicia Stockstill.

“HOSPITALS ARE NOW DISCHARGING PATIENTS SOONER AND SOONER, AND WE WANT TO BE READY TO PROVIDE ANY SERVICE NEEDED TO OUR INHOME PATIENTS.”

Putting a parent in assisted living is such a hard decision, and I never expected my mom to be a true part of the community. 6 months ago you would never have convinced me she would participate in music, bingo, exercises, activities - and she’s now fully engaging in it all! When I visit I can always find her in the community areas having fun and thriving, and I can’t thank the Winslow Court staff enough.

100 doesn’t scare me!

By Arlyn Macdonald

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 one bit! ■

How to make use of tech’s accessibility features

These settings make your computer or smart phone easier for everyone

Somemembers of my family have a number of physical, mental and emotional limitations. There are congenital disorders, autoimmune issues, critical injuries from accidents, mental challenges and a wide variety of complicated medical mysteries.

Although I am one of the most unaffected people in my family, I have often thought about how much I would hate to be referred to as “disabled” if I were permanently hobbled in some way. In fact, I think that being called “handicapped” would be my label of choice.

If I lost the use of my arms, legs or eyes, it wouldn’t bother me if people said those particular parts were disabled, because they would be permanently out of commission. But the particular ailment would be my handicap, and I would still be able to function in any capacity that did not require the full use of the broken parts.

I subscribe to the philosophy that we are all disabled, handicapped or otherwise limited in some way. The tech world uses the word “accessibility” to refer

to adjustments, modifications and features that make devices and software adaptable to people with limitations.

Few people recognize how difficult technology can be for people with limitations. I remember watching my brother play a flight simulator when he was little. He was flying directly toward the dirt runway, but he couldn’t see it because the runway was brown and the surrounding grass was green. That’s how I recognized that he was colorblind.

Now an adult, he builds home theaters and sound systems and works with audio and video wiring. He often works in dimly lit conditions where the differences in color are imperceptible. But, he is able to do it using apps on his phone that identify the colors for him.

SUBHEAD

Technology can even assist with

mental limitations. Most of the biggest names in tech and healthcare are developing technology such as smart glasses, apps and augmented reality headsets that allow people whose brains are wired differently or chemically off balance to better interpret and interact with the world around them.

People with delusional schizophrenia have been known to use their cellphone cameras or smart glasses to identify which things they see and hear are real and which are constructs of their condition.

Technology is often used to overcome a limitation without us even realizing it. Have you ever taken a picture of the directions on a pill bottle so that you could zoom in on the image to read the tiny print? Have you ever taken a picture of a sign showing the dimensions of a piece of furniture so you could remember it later?

In my mind, the entire purpose

TALKING DIGITAL

BY ADAM COCHRAN

of technology should be to help us overcome limitations. And, when possible, help us exceed the abilities of the average human.

GIVE IT A TRY

Many of the accessibility features built into your computer or smartphone are extremely useful for anyone.

Go into your device’s accessibility options and you will find that you can adjust the speed of the double-click on your mouse, the size of the mouse arrow, or turn on a magnifier that can make the area around your mouse (or where you put your finger on your smartphone) larger.

There are accessibility options that give you audio indicators for visual features and visual indicators for audio features.

If you find that your cursor jumps around while you are typing on your laptop, you can adjust the sensitivity of your touchpad or make it so that tapping on it doesn’t make the cursor move.

There are also cool features such as a screen reader that audibly reads everything on your screen. Other features allow your computer or phone to type whatever you speak.

There are a lot of concerns about the ability of technology to replace humans, but computers and technology are also allowing humans to be more equal than ever. The more we learn to implement technology as a tool and allow it to augment our limitations, the more we can focus on implementing our humanity into a world saturated with technology. ■

Send your questions to Adam in care of Life After 50, or email him at AdamC@TalkingDigital.org

THERE ARE A LOT OF CONCERNS ABOUT THE ABILITY OF TECHNOLOGY TO REPLACE HUMANS, BUT COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY ARE ALSO ALLOWING HUMANS TO BE MORE EQUAL THAN EVER.

There are many accessibility features and apps on mobile phones and computers, such as these shown on an iPhone.

CALENDAR

May 1 & 20

Genealogy Basics (Virtual)

Learn strategies, including getting started, organizing research and selecting and searching for records. Registration is required.

10 a.m. Monday & 2 p.m. Saturday | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 3

Get on Board Volunteer Fair

Do you have a passion to serve your community and the skills to match? This event by Leadership Pikes Peak connects local nonprofits with talented volunteers. Visit each table to learn about the organizations. Their mission may align with yours!

3-8 p.m. | 6035 Erin Park Drive | Free | leadershippikespeak.org | 719-632-2618

May 3

Making Desserts Without Sugar

Dessert without sugar? Yes, it’s true! You’ll learn to make a variety of easy-to-prepare treats using natural sweeteners and fruit in this interactive class at the Arc!

4-6 p.m. | 12 N. Meade Ave. | $25 | uchealth.org | 719-365-8061

May 3-7

Arts and Crafts Spring Sale

Stop by the Black Forest Community Center, where Arts and Crafts Guild members sell fine and decorative arts, crafts and culinary delights.

4-7 p.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday | Free | 12530 Black Forest Road | bfacg.org

May 4

Author Talk: “Walk of Life:

From Death to Glory”

Come to the Tattered Cover to hear author Rusty Nosser, who was a young athlete when a hunting accident blinded him in one eye, then a bleeding ulcer landed him in the ICU. The walk Nosser took touched many worldwide.

6 p.m. | 112 N. Tejon St. | Free | tatteredcover.com | 719-602-5300

May 4 & 5

Phil Wickham Singalong Tour

Matt Maher and Leeland join Wickham for this night of worship featuring collaborations and solos at

Rocky Mountain Calvary.

7 p.m. | 4285 N. Academy Blvd. | $32-$211 | rmcalvary.org | 719-597-1133

May 4-7

“The Kitchen Witches”

It’s a hoot a minute at Cripple Creek’s Butte Theater! Two cable-access cooking hostesses’ feud erupts on live TV, and the insults burn hotter than the flambé!

7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1 p.m. Saturday & Sunday | 139 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek | $15 | funkylittletheater.org | 719-471-4462

May 5

First Friday ArtWalk with Fred Lunger

Watch Lunger sculpt in a brief demonstration at the Hunter-Wolff Gallery and view his newest collection. He sculpted “The Gathering Place,” featuring 10 life-sized bronze geese landing at Denver’s Alameda Square.

5-8 p.m. | 2510 W. Colorado Ave. | Free | hunterwolffgallery.com | 719-520-9494

May 5-6

John Heffron

Laugh ‘til you cry as Heffron puts the funny in relatable experiences, from childhood to fatherhood, at 3E’s Comedy Club. Winner of “Last Comic Standing” and veteran of latenight TV, he was Danny Bonaduce’s wingman on FM radio.

7:30 or 9:45 p.m. | 1 S. Nevada Ave. | $22-$65 | 3escomedy.com | 719-694-9911

May 5, 12, 19 & 26

May 6

Walking Tour:

Historic Architecture & Murals

View your city with renewed appreciation! This hour-long guided tour introduces the historic landmarks, contemporary artwork and cultural highlights of downtown. Start at the Wild Goose Meeting House with a free beverage.

10-11 a.m. | 401 N. Tejon St. | $10 | downtownpartnership.growthzone app.com | 719-886-0088

May 6

Mother’s Day Craft: Pots of Love

May 4-21

August Wilson’s “King Hedley” What defines us: the blood we share or the blood we spill? Watch from the Ent Center’s stage as King Hedley rediscovers relationships with his family and community while grappling with legacy and free will.

7:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, 2 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday | 5225 N. Nevada Ave. | $10-$44 | entcenter forthearts.org | 719-255-3232

May 5

Cinco

de Mayo Taste & Tour

Olé! John the fiesta at The Inn at Garden Plaza. There will be games, food and music—and plenty of celebrating!

1:30 p.m. | 2520 International Circle | Free | centurypa.com/ senior-living/inn-garden-plaza | 719-630-1155

Total Joint Replacement Class

Are you scheduled for or thinking about a total or partial shoulder, knee or hip replacement surgery? This class at UCHealth Grandview Hospital offers information on equipment, pain management, hospitalization and recovery.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 5623 Pulpit Peak View | Free | uchealth.org | 719-365-3300

May 6

Take 5 in the Garden

Who can turn down a morning in “America’s Most Beautiful Park,” Garden of the Gods? The park will be closed to vehicles so you can run traffic free! Choose between a 5K or a 5- or 9.5-mile course, a road race or a trail race.

6:30 a.m. | Gateway Road & 30th St. | $60-$85 | madmooseevents.com

May 6

Senior Life Expo

Don’t miss this community event offering the latest products, services and information on healthy aging at the Colorado Springs Event Center.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. | 3960 Palmer Park Blvd. | Free | seniorlifeexpocs.com | 719-636-0390

Take your grandchild to the Fountain Creek Nature Center outdoor area to create a gift for Mom: a painted flowerpot with seeds that will grow into beautiful flowers or herbs. Supplies are included. Reserve one ticket per crafter. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain | Free | commun ityservices.elpasoco.com | 719-520-6745

May 6

Walk to Defeat ALS

Lace up your walking shoes and head to America the Beautiful Park to raise funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. | 126 Cimino Drive | Free | walktodefeatals.org | 303-832-2322

May 6

Mountain of Authors

Meet dozens of local authors at this 17th annual event at Library 21c. Keynote speaker is Alan Prendergast, author of “Gangbuster: One Man’s

Battle Against Crime, Corruption, and the Klan.” Visit ppld.org/moa for a complete schedule.

12-4:30 p.m. | 1175 Chapel Hills Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 6

May 6 & 7

Endings/Beginnings

This season finale of the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs features the underperformed symphonies of Max Bruch, 17-year-old Chopin’s rare Variations on Mozart’s “Là ci darem la mano,” a powerful overture by Farrenc and a playful set of dances by Michael Abels on May 6 at Broadmoor Community Church, 315 Lake Ave., and May 7 at First Christian Church, 16 E. Platte Ave.

7 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday | $25 | chamberorchestraofthe springs.org | 719-633-3649

May 6 & 27

May 8 CarFit

Check how well your vehicle fits you with this program’s 12-point checklist of your steering wheel, headrests, seat belts and more. An occupational therapist will help you drive safer longer. When you register, you’ll be assigned a one-on-one, 40-minute appointment.

12:30-3:30 p.m. | 2420 E. Pikes Peak Ave. | Free | uchealth.org | 719-365-8061

May 8

Free Law Clinic

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Dr. | $30-$35 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

May 10

Doc Talk

Stop by Humana’s MarketPointe office to hear Dr. Lane O’Dea teach about the body’s intelligent design and ability to heal.

12 p.m. | 5310 N. Nevada Ave. | Free | humana.com | 719-464-5822

Swan Lake

Gaze in wonder as over 70 local dancers bring perhaps the most beautiful of all the classical romantic ballets to elegant life in four acts at the Ent Center.

2 p.m. | 5225 N. Nevada Ave. | $15-$69 | entcenterforthearts. org | 719-255-8181

May 6

David Spade

Funnyman Spade will keep you in stitches with his deadpan, droll sarcasm at the Pikes Peak Center! This Emmy-nominated veteran of “Saturday Night Live” and “Just Shoot Me” and the movie “Tommy Boy” delights with his Catch Me Inside tour.

8-10 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $45-$75 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

presents

The Great Outdoors & AdAmAn Alley

This 3/4-mile downtown walking tour with a Pioneers Museum guide examines the community’s relationship with the environment. See the newly completed AdAmAn Alley honoring the igniters of New Year’s fireworks on Pikes Peak since 1922.

10-11:30 a.m. | 115 E. Pikes Peak Ave. | $5 | give.cspm.org/history stroll | 719-385-5633

May 7

Carmina Burana

Three hundred multi-generational local performers bring this cantata of 24 medieval poems to dazzling life at the Pikes Peak Center! The Philharmonic and Youth Symphony collaborate in a side-by-side double orchestra while the Festival Choir of children through adults sings.

3 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $28$36 | csysa.com | 719-477-2100

Speak with an attorney at no cost over Zoom at the Fountain Library. Registration is required.

3:30-5 p.m. | 230 S. Main St., Fountain | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 9

Nutrition Class: Maintaining Muscle Mass

Maintaining your muscle mass is a must—now and well into the future, with key foods and supplements recommended by science-based research. Presented at Library 21c. 2 p.m. | 1175 Chapel Hills Blvd. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 10

Duplessy & Violins of the World

Four virtuosos bring you rhythms and melodies past and present encompassing Asian, Celtic, blues and Mongolian steppe influences for an astonishing cross-cultural encounter at Stargazers, with some wild covers!

May 11

Senior Lifestyle Expo

Free health screenings, informative educational seminars, live demonstrations and entertainment, over 60 vendors and raffles, prizes and giveaways await at this event at the Antlers Hotel.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 4 S. Cascade Ave. | Free | pikespeakseniornews.com

May 12

Curiosity Unlimited

Learn while you’re lunching! Enjoy a buffet at the Colorado Springs Country Club as UCCS education professor Scott Kupferman speaks

Calendar continued on next spread...

Winner! 2005 Samuel French Canadian Playwrights Contest

Isobel Lomax and Dolly Biddle are two “mature” cable-access cooking show hostesses who have hated each other for thirty years, ever since Larry Biddle dated one and married the other. When circumstances put them together on a TV show called The Kitchen Witches, the insults are flung harder than the food! Dolly’s long-suffering TV-producer son, Stephen, tries to keep them on track, but as long as Dolly’s dressing room is one inch closer to the set than Isobel’s, it’s a losing battle, and the show becomes a ratings smash as Dolly and Isobel top both Martha Stewart and Jerry Springer!

Friday, April 28 @ 7pm

Saturday, April 29 @ 1pm

Saturday, April 29 @ 7pm

PERFORMANCES

Sunday, April 30 @ 1pm

Thursday, May 4 @ 7pm

Friday, May 5 @ 7pm

Saturday, May 6 @ 1pm*

Saturday, May 6 @ 7pm

Sunday, May 7 @ 1pm

A Hilarious Play by Caroline Smith + Directed by Chris Medina

CALENDAR

on assistive learning, artificial intelligence and gamification in learning, with interactive demos. Guests are welcome. Call to reserve a spot.

11 a.m. | 3333 Templeton Gap Road | $50 | uccs.edu/curiosity |

719-755-5082

May 12

Community Luncheon

Honoring Mothers

Share great food while honoring the nurturing spirit of motherhood at The Pinery at the Hill! TEDx speaker Cristy Belz, MSW, author of “Oh God of Second Chances, Here I am Again,” presents. Register online.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | 775 W. Bijou St. | $65 | homewardpp.org |

719-473-5557

May 12

Starburn

The stars align when Starburn visits Stargazers! Rock out to ’60s and ’70s hits by the Doobie Brothers, Chicago, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and others. This Springs-based band’s spot-on, three-part harmony will put a little dance in your step!

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Dr. | $15 | stargazerstheatre.com |

719-476-2200

May 12-13, 19-20

May 12 & 13

Mariachi Los Camperos

Marinate in the flavor of Mexico at the Pikes Peak Center with threetime Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos. Their arrangements of classical melodies and traditional favorites make for an unforgettably festive night.

7:30 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $40-$84 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

May 12, 13 & 14

Miramont Mother’s Day Tea

Show the mothers in your life some love with this four-course high tea that includes a scone, fruit, tea sandwiches, desserts and a small surprise for mothers. There are three seatings daily. Reservations required.

10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. | 9 Capitol Hill Ave., Manitou Springs | $55 ($35 children) | miramont castle.org | 719-685-1011

May 13

Scrap Exchange with Who Gives a Scrap

Swap your unwanted craft materials for new-to-you materials at the Cheyenne Mountain Library.

1 p.m. | 1785 S. 8th St., Suite 100 | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 13

Native American Occupation in the Colorado Mountains

History comes alive at the Pioneers Museum when Dr. Jason LaBelle shares about “the first ascent,” the 10,000 years when America’s indigenous people called the Rockies home. Preregistration is required:

Spring Plant Sales

Visit the public gardens in Monument Valley Park and talk to gardeners while purchasing plants that grow well locally. You’ll support this 60-year-old community resource. See the new raised vegetable beds and children’s garden to glean ideas.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday | 224 Mesa Road and Glen Ave. | hasgardens.org/ plant-sale | hasgardens@gmail. com

2-3 p.m. | 215 S. Tejon St. | Free | cspm.org | 719-385-5990

May 13

Rock ’n Remember Elvis

Get “All Shook Up” at Stargazers as Joseph Hall captures the essence of Elvis Presley. This “America’s Got Talent” finalist tours worldwide and won the “Spirit of Elvis” award.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Dr. | $20-$45 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

May 13, 20 & 27

Colorado Book Award Finalists

Reading Series

Interact with these finalists by listening to them read at Pikes Peak Library District branches, asking questions and purchasing their books. See the library calendar for locations and genres.

4-5:30 p.m. | Various PPLD locations | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 14

Birds & Brews

Get your chirps and cheers on at Rock Ledge Ranch, followed by Red Leg Brewing Company! This easy/ moderate hike on even terrain covers three miles max. Bring binoculars and look for prairie falcons and white-throated swifts. RSVP to Jessica at jessicasbirding@gmail.com.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. | 3199 Chambers Way | Free | aikenaudubon.com

May 16

Tunes on Tuesday with Blue Moon Lawrence!

Lawrence Yoshito Shiroma will be playing oldies but goodies from the ’60s and ’70s with his acoustic guitar and velvety trombone at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.

1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. | 1514 N. Hancock Ave. | Free | csseniorcenter. com | 719-955-3400

May 17

Lunch & Learn: Garden of the Gods

Enjoy a Panera boxed lunch and learn from park interpreter Bowen Gillings what motivated landowner Charles Perkins to spend over two decades searching for a way to guarantee the iconic red rocks would remain forever free to the public.

12-1:45 p.m. | 215 S. Tejon St. | $17$20 (free without lunch) | cspm.org | 719-385-5990

May 19

Military Appreciation Art Show Reception

Throughout May, Academy Art & Frame Company displays the creative works of active duty and veteran artists and creators in all media: 2D, 3D, authors, musicians, videography, etc. Hear musicians play during the reception.

4-7 p.m. | 7560 N. Academy Blvd. | Free | academyframesco.com | 719-265-6694

May 19

Visual Impairment

Lunch & Learn

Enjoy a delicious meal as guest speaker Jared Graham from iSight Connections gives an overview of assistive technology, vision rehabilitation therapy, orientation and mobility.

11 a.m. | 2520 International Circle | Free | centurypa.com/ senior-living/inn-garden-plaza | 719-630-1155

May 19

ROLL Bike Art Festival Opening

Cycling enthusiasts and art appreciators, plan on attending the opening reception of this 19th annual juried international exhibit at the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort featuring artwork related to bicycles.

5-8:30 p.m. | 2 El Paso Blvd. | Free | bicycleresort.com | 719-323-4684

May 19

The Long Run

Stop living “Life in the Fast Lane”! You’ll get a “Peaceful Easy Feeling” when you “Take It Easy” at Stargazers as Colorado’s tribute to the Eagles faithfully re-creates the sound of America’s best-selling rock band.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Dr. | $25 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

May 19-21

Paranormal Conference

UFOs and Bigfoot and ghosts, oh my! Cripple Creek-Victor High School hosts this conference with the Frightday Film Fest, a ghost hunt at the Outlaw & Lawmen Jail Museum, UFO SkyWatch, Sasquatch search, vendors, speakers, classes and more.

10 a.m. | 410 N. B St. | $20-$25 | pikespeakparanormal.com

May 20

CreatorsCon

Walk the red carpet or belt out some karaoke tunes while wearing your finest cosplay! This event at the Radisson Hotel Airport also features a video game tournament, creative challenge, game night and trivia, food, vendors and more.

9 a.m.-11 p.m. | 1645 Newport Road | $35 | creatorsconvention.com

May 20

Blue Moon Lawrence!

Listen to live folk, ballads and pop songs from solo guitarist and trombonist Lawrence Yoshito Shiroma at Mission Coffee Roasters, 11641 Ridgeline Drive #170, at 9-10:30 a.m. or Third Space Coffee, 5670 N. Academy Blvd. at 3-4:30 p.m. Free | 424-247-3109 | lawrencethe guitarist@gmail.com

May 20

Author Talk: Patriotism in America, Past and Present

Hear local author Becky Van Vleet speak at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center about “Unintended Hero,” detailing her father’s up-close-and-personal battles on the USS Denver in World War II in the Pacific Theater. Books may be purchased and signed.

11 a.m. | 517 Manitou Ave. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 20

Last Men on Earth

This Colorado-based band delivers hits from Journey, Toto, Foreigner, Van Halen, The Commodores, Bryan Adams and...? They’ll keep you

May

New Beginnings Art Show

Donate or bid on artwork with the theme of “New Beginnings” at Living Hope Covenant Church! Proceeds will benefit a church ministry.

11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 6750 N. Union Blvd. | Free | livinghope cov.com | 719-531-5101

guessing what lost radio hit you forgot you loved they’ll play next when they visit Stargazers.

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Dr. | $20 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

May 20 Mahler 9

The sublime sounds of Gustav Mahler’s last completed symphony will reverberate within the Pikes Peak Center’s walls and in your heart as Music Director Josep Caballé-Domenech ends his 12-year tenure with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. Come early for a 30-minute pre-concert conversation.

7:30 p.m. | 190 S. Cascade Ave. | $28-$84 | pikespeakcenter.com | 719-477-2100

May 23

Census Records Genealogy Class (Virtual)

Learn about using library resources to navigate and access census records, use basic search strategies and employ tips and tricks for locating your hidden ancestors.

7 p.m. | Free | ppld.org | 719-531-6333

May 23

Stryper

This band proves that Christian metal is not an oxymoron! Hear Michael Sweet belt out “To Hell with the Devil,” “Honestly” and other hits at the Black Sheep.

7-11 p.m. | 2106 E. Platte Ave. | $30 | blacksheeprocks.com | 719-227-7625

May 25

The Elders

If Americana and Celtic folk rock music stirs your soul, make plans to catch this critically acclaimed band’s concert at Stargazers. History, legends, tall tales and true-life experiences factor into their music with Irish feistiness!

7 p.m. | 10 S. Parkside Drive | $20 | stargazerstheatre.com | 719-476-2200

May 26-28

Meadowgrass 2023

Treat yourself to three days of live music at the La Foret Conference & Retreat Center in Black Forest!

There’s a beer festival, songwriting contest, yoga, guided hikes, workshops, vendors, food and late-night shows. Camping is optional.

10 a.m. | 6145 Shoup Road | $75-$85/ day | rockymountainhighway.org | 719-495-2743

May 27

Movie Rewind

This monthly classic film series at the Rockrimmon Library provides the best of the cinematic past. Snacks and drinks are provided.

12-2 p.m. | 832 Village Center Drive | Free | ppld.librarymarket.com | 719-531-6333, ext. 7008

May 30

Introduction to Pressure Cooking

Preserve your garden harvest or farmers market bounty by learning the techniques and tools you need to can vegetables, fruits, meats, soups and more from the pros at Colorado State University Extension. Preregistration is required.

11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 17 N. Spruce St. | $25 | elpaso.extension.colo state.edu | 719-520-7690 ■

SEND EVENTS TO:

Info@LaFifty.com

CLUBS

21st Century Toastmasters meets weekly at Library 21c. Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-591-8045

ACC Grass Roots 307 Cribbage meets at the Colorado Springs Elks Lodge.

Wednesdays | 5:30 p.m. | 719-3311200

ACLU defends civil rights and liberties. Call for details. 303-777-5482

Austin Bluffs Sertoma, a community service organization, meets twice monthly for breakfast at Embassy Suites.

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 7:30 a.m. | 719-460-5561

Austrian-American Enzian Club is a German-speaking culture club that meets at VFW Post #101.

2nd Wednesday | 2-4 p.m. | 719-380-1163

Black Forest AARP meets for a potluck at Black Forest Lutheran Church.

2nd Wednesday | 12 p.m. | 719-596-6787

Black Forest Trails Association meetings are open to the public at Black Forest Community Club.

2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | black foresttrails.org

Blazer Ski Club meets year round with organized ski trips, golf, hiking and more.

Wednesdays | blazerskiclub.org

Breakfast Club for Singles 50+ meets for breakfast at the Elks Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Cost is $22 (cash or check). Must RSVP.

1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-260-0651 | tbc50plus.org

Bridge Players Duplicate plays daily at the Bridge Center.

Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m. | Tuesdays at 9 a.m. | Saturdays at 6 p.m. | 719-634-7250

Broadmoor Rotary Club meets for lunch with a speaker at DoubleTree by Hilton. Please RSVP.

1st and 3rd Thursdays | 12 p.m. | 740-707-3022 | rotarybroadmoor. com

Bulldog Club meets monthly at Westside Community Center.

4th Monday | 6-8 p.m. | chloed howard@yahoo.com

Carnelian Coffee Book Club meets at Carnelian Coffee.

1st Sunday | 1 p.m. | jpaisley@ppld.org

Chess Club meets weekly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center. Fridays | 12-2 p.m. | 719-648-1481

Cheyenne Mountain Hooked on Crochet meets virtually to crochet or knit.

1st & 3rd Thursdays | 10 a.m. | PPLD.org | 719-389-8968

Colorado Springs Scrabble Club meets virtually for three games on Woogles.io.

Mondays | 5:45-9 p.m. | 719-3325141

Colorado Springs Stamp Club meets at Vista Grande Baptist Church.

1st Tuesday | 7 p.m.

Curiosity Unlimited offers continuous learning opportunities with UCCS professor lectures at Ent Center for the Arts, Chapman Foundations Recital Hall. Visitors welcome!

2nd Friday | 10 a.m. | uccs.edu/ curiosity | 719-755-5082

DAV Knob Hill holds a bingo fundraiser at 6880 Palmer Park Blvd. to help aid local veterans.

Sundays | 5:30-9 p.m. | 719-591-8787

Evening Adult Fiction Book Club for daytime workers meets at Woodland Park Library.

1st Wednesday | 5 p.m.

Ford Mustang Club for Mustang owners/enthusiasts meets monthly at Phil Long Ford Motor City.

3rd Saturday | 4:30 p.m. | mustang ers.com

Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship meets for breakfast at IHOP, 6005 Constitution Ave.

2nd Saturday | 7:30 a.m. | 719-2293317

Gleneagle Sertoma, a community service organization, meets for lunch at Beast and Brews, 7 Spectrum Loop.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m. | 719-331-1212

Gold Camp Victorian Society meets at Cripple Creek Heritage Center.

4th Saturday | 2 p.m. | info@gold campvictoriansociety.org

Cheyenne Mountain Newcomers Club for women will not resume meeting until September. cmncos.org

Colorado Springs Chess Club meets at Acacia Apartments ballroom.

Tuesdays | 6 p.m.

Colorado Springs Coin Club meets at Fraternal Order of Eagles #143.

4th Tuesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-632-4260

Colorado Springs Cribbage Club #307 meets weekly at the Elk’s Lodge, 3400 North Nevada Ave. Arrive early to meet other players. Wednesdays | 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society, active since 1936, meets monthly at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Use the employee entrance in the back.

3rd Thursday | 7-9 p.m. | csms1936. com

Colorado Springs Numismatic Society meets at Gold Hill Police Station’s community room.

2nd Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-632-4260

Falcon Adult Group meets at High Prairie Library.

1st Wednesday | 11 a.m.

Falcon Garden Club meets at High Prairie Library.

3rd Saturday | 10 a.m. | falcon gardenclub.org

Florissant Bookworms meets monthly at Florissant Library.

2nd Wednesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-748-3939

Falcon Wanderers Volkssport Club meets for regular walks. Membership dues are $10 per person and $16 per couple.

719-597-4307 | falconwanderers.org

Friends at the Table Cooking Club meets at Florissant Library.

3rd Friday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-7483939

Hi-Country Newcomers is a social group open to all women in Colorado Springs. Activities include hiking, book club, games, lunches and tours. Call for membership.

2nd Monday | 10 a.m. | 719-464-7633

International Dance Club hosts weekly dances. Live bands, variety of styles, family friendly. Cost is $12. Saturdays | 7-10 p.m. | international danceclub.org | 719-633-0195

Maxi’s Dance Group meets at Eagles Club #143 with music for ages 40+ and food and drinks for purchase. Cover is $5 members, $8 non-members.

Thursdays | 6-9 p.m. | 719-660-1358.

Open Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

3rd Saturday | 11 a.m. | 719-6879281

Paralyzed Vets of America plays weekly at Bingo World.

Tuesdays | 12 p.m. | 719-578-1441

Pikes Peak Camera Club meets at Living Hope Church, 640 Manitou Blvd. 2nd Wednesday | 7 p.m. | 719-6342376 | pikespeakcameraclub.com

Pikes Peak Computer Application Society meets at Springs Community Church, 7290 Lexington Dr. 1st Saturday | 9 a.m. | asdtitus@ gmail.com

Pikes Peak Genealogical Society meets virtually.

2nd Wednesday | 6 p.m. | ppgs.org

Pikes Peak Over the Hill Gang meets monthly for dinner. This club is for active adults 50+ who enjoy skiing, biking, hiking, golfing, camping, etc. Membership required.

2nd Wednesday | ppothg.com.

Pikes Peak Pastel Society meets April 15 at Library 21C.

1 p.m. | 719-338-5548 | pikespeak pastel.org

Silicon Mountain Mac User Group meets virtually. Visit website for link.

2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | smmug.org

Sno-Jets Ski & Adventure Club meets at The Public House at The Alexander. See website for ski trips, biking, hiking and other activities.

1st Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | snojets.org

Socrates Cafe meets weekly for discussion at the Monument Library.

Tuesdays | 1-3 p.m. | 719-531-6333

Sons and Daughters of Italy meets for dinner and a meeting at VFW Post #101.

1st Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | 719-210-2025

Sons of Norway meets at Viking Hall.

2nd Wednesday | 6:30 p.m. | 719-574-3717

Month Question

OF THE

By Rhonda Wray

How do you feel about no free bags at the stores?

Rosanna Nielsen

“Oh, I am all for it, 150%! They’ve been doing that in Europe for years. There’s too much plastic! It’s not good for the sea creatures or the planet.”

Pikes Peak Posse of the Westerners meets for dinner and a program at the Masonic Center. Please RSVP.

2nd Monday | 6 p.m. | 719-473-0330

Pikes Peak Water Garden Society meets at Mountain View Church of Christ (April through October).

2nd Thursday | 7 p.m. | 719-6480740 | ppwgs.org

Rampart Range Blue Star Mothers meets at Falcon Police Department.

1st Sunday | 2 p.m. | 719-651-8038

Read Amok Book Club meets at Florissant Library.

2nd Monday | 11 a.m. | 719-7483939

Reader’s Circle Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

2nd Thursday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-6879281

Red Hat Ladies meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

1st & 3rd Fridays | 1 p.m. | 719-6002644

Rotary Club meets weekly for lunch and a speaker at the DoubleTree Hotel. Visit website for Zoom link and to RSVP.

Fridays | 12:15 p.m. | 719-338-3239 | portal.clubrunner.ca/3250

Spanish Conversation Group meets weekly at the East Library. Intermediate-advanced Spanish learners and native speakers discuss a variety of topics.

Thursdays | 1:30-3 p.m. | 719-2445902

Veterans of Korean Service meets at BPOE Elks 304, 3400 N. Nevada Ave. Lunch and speaker are $13. Call to RSVP.

3rd Saturday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-2146121

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1075, meets at Skills Academy, 1575 Garden of the Gods Road.

Last Saturday | 9 a.m. | 719-2358162 | vva1075.org

Women’s Army Corps Veterans Association meets at Sand Creek Police Station.

4th Saturday | 10 a.m. | peakwac vets@yahoo.com

Woodland Park Book Club meets at Woodland Park Library.

1st Tuesday | 10:30 a.m. | 719-687-9281

Yarnia! Knitting & Crochet Club meets at Florissant Library.

2nd Thursday | 10 a.m. | 719-748-3939 ■

Cindy Hooten

“I support it—but I am not one to choose reusable bags that have pithy, witty or virtue-signaling messages. I may design one that looks like a plain brown paper bag just for grins!”

Lea

Dickinson

“I’m for it, if I can remember to bring my bags into the store from the car! Once I had some extra reusable bags from my church. When I saw a frustrated shopper who forgot her bag, I helped her out by giving her one.”

Harvella Stutzman

“I think it’s a good idea—but I’ll miss having a supply of grocery bags to line my wastebaskets!”

SUPPORT GROUPS

BITS

El Paso County provides streamlined services to veterans

The Pikes Peak Region is home to more than 100,000 veterans and their families, and El Paso County is committed to providing quality services and resources for them. The PACT Act Stand Down Program designates specific “claims clinics” where veterans receive toxic health screenings if they have served in PACT Act presumptive locations. The veterans may also enroll in VA Healthcare if needed. Since its start, the program has assisted over 220 veterans, resulting in 130 PACT Act claims filed. A clinic will be held at the El Paso County Veteran Service Office on May 19. Future clinics will be held this summer on June 16 and July 21. The clinics are held at the El Paso County Veteran Service Office at 5850 Championship View, Suite 130. Availability is limited. To register and for more information, contact the El Paso County Veteran Service Office at 719-520-7750 or vet@elpasoco.com. For additional veteran resources, visit justiceservices.elpasoco.com/veterans-services.

May walks benefit ALS and MS

Lace up your walking shoes to raise money and awareness for these two debilitating diseases that may affect someone you love. May 6 is the Walk to Defeat ALS at America the Beautiful Park, 126 Cimino Drive, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Help raise funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and invest in the research needed to combat this rare neurological disease. Find out more by visiting walktodefeatals.org or calling 303-832-2322. On May 20, Walk MS takes place at Acacia Park, 115 E. Platte Ave., at 9:30 a.m. More research is needed for a better understanding of and treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease of the central nervous system. Go as a team or solo and complete a 1- or 3-mile course. For more information, contact ms society.donordrive.com or call 855372-1331. Prefer not to walk? You can always support another walker or donate online.

Pikes Peak Birding & Nature Festival

Birders and nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss this 8th annual

festival celebrating conservation, education and the great outdoors “from prairie to peak.” It’s all happening on May 18-21 at the Fountain Creek Nature Center. This ecotourism experience is full of field trips and learning opportunities, including guided hikes and bird walks, hummingbird banding, live birds of prey, lunch with ranch hands, a lesson on Garden of the Gods’ geology, a mountain lion talk, and the Mile High Bug Club’s bug walkabout and insect black lighting. Enjoy food, drinks and live music at the “Birds, Brews and Bites” happy hour at Bear Creek Regional Park on May 20, where participants can share sightings from festival field trips and view a list of the birds found during field trips. For registration and additional information, visit pikespeak birdingandnaturefestival.org or call 719-520-6767.

Medicare 101 & Insurance Provider Fair

Are you just getting started with Medicare and feel overwhelmed by the accompanying decisions? This complimentary presentation on May 31 will help you understand the details. The course is taught

by the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments—State Health Insurance Program (SHIP). The local SHIP office serves El Paso, Park and Teller counties. There will be time for questions at the end. Following the Medicare 101 presentation, several insurance providers will be on site to answer your questions. The class is held at UCHealth Memorial Administrative Center at 2420 E. Pikes Peak Ave. from 2-4:30 p.m. For more information, call 719365-8061 or email mary.duran@ uchealth.org.

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-demen tia/facts-figures.

Sinton Trail improvement project is finished

City crews worked diligently to ensure the timely completion of the Sinton Trail. Located near the intersection of West Garden of the Gods Road and 30th Street, it provides a connection from the foothills and Palmer-Mesa trails to the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail. The final segment of trail includes more than 500 feet of widened concrete and the addition of a 300-foot retaining wall to allow for an ADA-compliant trail. The project also included the lowering of existing utility lines and stamped concrete. The completed

Territory Days on Memorial Day weekend

Colorado’s largest street fair is back on May 27-29 in Old Colorado City’s historic district, on Colorado Ave. between 23rd and 27th streets. Territory Days has captivated Coloradans for 45 years, and it hosts one of the state’s largest craft vendor fairs. The fun continues with tasty food, 25 bands on three stages, gold panning, a mechanical bull, kids zone, cowboy church, fire circus, toy train rides, period costumed characters, birds of prey, Native American dancers and two beer gardens. All that, and it’s free! Do you want to escape the parking hassles? Park at Coronado High School and take a free shuttle to the festivities. For more information, visit shopold coloradocity.com or call 719-3448537.

Sinton Trail segment now provides off-street safe, accessible routes for all trail users, including walkers, runners and cyclists. The work was funded by the Colorado Springs Trails, Open Space, and Parks (TOPS) sales tax program with a total investment of $312,000. The TOPS tax is a 0.1% sales and use tax that collects 1 penny for every ten dollars of eligible purchases for trails, open space and parks. ■

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alzheimer’s Association offers free caregiver support, in person and virtually. Call 24/7 to register.

800-272-3900

Amputee Support Group meets at Encompass Rehab Hospital.

1st Tuesdays | 5-6:30 p.m. |

719-632-5075

Community Reinforcement And Family Training (CRAFT) has support for families and friends of loved ones struggling with substance use at Springs Recovery Connection. English, Spanish, virtual and in-person options are available.

719-377-2161 | aneeley@srchope.org

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

719-649-9054 | daddyslittlegirls.net

Dementia Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

3rd Wednesday | 2-3:30 p.m. | 719600-2644

Depression and Bipolar Support has support for those living with or affected by mood disorders.

719-477-1515 | dbsacolorado springs.org

El Paso County Colorado

Progressive Veterans helps veterans, active duty military and their families with VA health care and disability, homelessness, emergency needs, PTSD and mental health support.

719-488-8351 | epccpv.org | info@epccpv.org

Emotions Anonymous, a program for unsolved emotional problems, meets at First Lutheran Church, 1515 N. Cascade Ave. Mondays | 6 p.m. | 719-235-1798

Falcon Senior Services meets at Patriot High School in Falcon.

2nd Wednesday | 11 a.m. |

719-494-0353

Gamblers Anonymous meets virtually and in person at the Dwelling Place, 508 N. Tejon St.

Virtual: Check coloradoga.org

In-person: Mondays at 6 p.m. | Saturdays at 9 a.m.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren supports those parenting

grandkids. Call for details. 719-578-8007

Grief Share helps attendees find healing after losing a loved one.

4th Tuesday | 10 a.m. | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com

Headway Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group meets at Fargo’s Pizza, 2910 E. Platte Ave.

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. | 719-459-0901

Hearing Loss Association of America meets virtually. hlaacoloradosprings.org

Keeping in Balance with the Life Tree meets weekly at Ambrose Family Health. Sessions are $5.

Thursdays | 2-3 p.m. | 719-203-5340

Life Without Lupus Foundation, for those with an autoimmune disorder, meets quarterly, typically at East Library.

4th Thursday | 11:30 a.m. | 719-3808330 | lifewithoutlupus.life

Low-Vision Support Group meets at Fountain Valley Senior Center.

3rd Wednesday | 1 p.m. | 719-600-2644

Multiple Sclerosis Alliance meets virtually and in-person. Visit website for schedule.

719-633-4603 | msasoco.org

NAMI Support Groups meet virtually and in person at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave. Registration required: 719-4738477, namicoloradosprings.org

• Connection Support Group is for those living with mental health conditions.

Virtual: Tuesdays | 7 p.m.

In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 235

• Family Support Group is for family members of people living with mental health conditions.

Virtual: Wednesdays | 7 p.m.

In-person: Thursdays | 7 p.m. | Room 234

Near Death Experience Group meets to share and talk about this life-changing experience that 1 out of 20 people have had. The meeting place varies, but it’s generally in the 80906 zip code. confidentiallistening@gmail.com

Overeaters Anonymous meets daily over Zoom (except Sundays) and in person on Thursdays at Peak Vista Community Health Center. In person: Thursdays | 9-10:15 a.m. | 719-205-9080 | oasouthern colorado.org

Parkinson’s Support Group meets at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave.

2nd Saturday | 10 a.m.

PEARLS Connect for people over 60 who feel overwhelmed by life’s issues meets monthly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.

2nd Tuesdays | 3-4:40 p.m. | 719459-2017

Polio Survivors Support Group meets regularly. Call for details. 303-212-0017

Prison Support Group for those with incarcerated loved ones meets weekly in the prayer room at Woodmen Valley Chapel.

Thursdays | 1 p.m. | 602-762-0900

Proactive Living Series meets at the Colorado Springs Senior Center to share tips on aging and resources.

3rd Thursday | 12-2 p.m.

Project Angel Heart delivers free

nutritious meals to those living with life-threatening illness.

719-323-0084

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

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

Vital Times is for those wanting to grow spiritually and meet new friends. Group meets at Sacred Heart Parish Center.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 719-633-8711

Widowed Persons Grief Support Group meets twice monthly at the Colorado Springs Senior Center.

2nd & 4th Fridays | 1-2 p.m. | 719955-3400 ■

FUN AFTER 50

Country Two-Step

Learn the basic quick, quick, slow, slow movement–it’s easy and fun!

1:45-2:30 p.m. | May 3-June 14 | $35

Waltz

HEALTH & FITNESS

Class fee: $50 per month (unlimited), $60 for 10-class punch card, or $8 drop-in

1514

To register for classes, call 719-955-3400 or visit CSSeniorCenter.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Forest Bathing

It’s more than a walk in the woods–you’ll immerse yourself in nature. Register by May 5.

8:30-10:30 a.m. | May 7 | $7

Strings ‘n Things

Hear Celtic, folk and gospel music played on dulcimers, violin, marimba, guitar/ukelele and flute.

1:30-2:30 p.m. | May 15 | $3

Heritage Ringers

Enjoy beautiful music from melodious bells by this community handbell choir.

2-3 p.m. | May 18 | $3

HEALTH & FITNESS

Managing Your Chronic Pain

Discover non-opioid treatments to help the hurt.

10-11 a.m. | May 5 | Free

Nurse Chats: Plantar Fasciitis

Learn why it might be hard to walk in the morning or why your feet hurt.

1-2 p.m. | May 17 | Free

Stroke Prevention & Education

Distinguish between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, learn about treatments and more.

10-11:30 a.m. | May 18 | Free

Hands-Only CPR

You can perform life-saving care without any equipment until professional responders arrive.

10-11 a.m. | May 25 | Free

Senior Medicare Patrol: Don’t

Get Scammed

Learn how to protect yourself from scams, fraud, abuse and viruses.

10-11 a.m. | May 26 | Free

If you can count to three, you can waltz! Learn this ballroom dance with its rise and fall.

1-1:45 p.m. | May 3-June 14 | $35

Breathwork, Meditation & Chair Yoga

This gentle class helps with calm and focus.

10-11 a.m. | May 2-June 18 | $35

LIFELONG LEARNING

Annuities: To Have, to Have Not Annuities can either solve a problem or create a new one. Learn to be a wise consumer.

10-11:30 p.m. | May 10 | Free

Fun Card Games to Play with Your Grandkids

Create a bonding experience when you play with your littlest loved ones!

10-11 a.m. | May 19 | Free

Healthy Hands & Feet

Practice self-care with stretches and self-massage techniques to strengthen and ease stiffness.

1:30-2:30 p.m. | May 25 | $3

ART

The Art of Color (Oil & Acrylics)

Expand your painting by learning advanced color mixing to develop a broader range of hues.

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | May 5-23 | $47

Art History

Learn what and who shaped the art culture through time.

1-3 p.m. | May 2-30 | $47

Exploring Painting Techniques

You’ll explore and practice the secrets of the masters, from the impressionists to Van Gogh.

1-3 p.m. | May 4-June 8 | $53

TECHNOLOGY

Contact the senior center for a schedule of computer classes and other technology help.

66 Jefferson St., Monument

To register for classes, call 719-464-6873 or visit SilverKey.org/trilakes

MEALS

Connections Café

Enjoy hot, nutritious meals and socialize with others.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays

ART

Open Studio Painting

Paint together for creativity and camaraderie!

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | 1st Monday | $5

Arts & Crafts

Enjoy conversation as you work on your own project or make one that’s provided.

11 a.m. | Thursdays | 719-464-6873

GAMES

Bunco

Bring $5 and a snack to share.

1-3 p.m. | May 12

Bingo

Play for fun and prizes! Must RSVP. 12:30 p.m. | May 17 | 719-330-0241 | sue@monumentalfitness.com

Chess

12 p.m. | Mondays

Pinochle

A combination of bidding, melding and trick-taking in one card game.

12-4 p.m. | Tuesdays

Hand & Foot

Be the first to get rid of your cards “hand first,” then foot in this Canasta-style game.

1-4 p.m. | Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Mah Jongg

Play others in this tile game for multiple players..

1-4 p.m. | Fridays

Walking Club

Stroll and socialize every weekday except Thursdays.

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Yoga

This class is designed to connect your breathing to your movements.

10:15 -11 a.m. | Mondays

Tai Chi Fusion

Reduce stress and promote serenity through gentle flowing movements.

12-1 p.m. | Mondays

Strong for Life

This circuit-style workout incorporates cardio and simple weight training.

1:30 p.m. | Mondays

Mind-ergize

Exercise your brain!

12-1 p.m. | Tuesdays

Line Dancing

Choreographed dances to music.

1:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Mix It Up!

Low-impact aerobics, simple weight training and stretching.

8-9 a.m. | Wednesdays

Tai Chi Gong

11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Wednesdays & Thursdays

Chair Yoga

Seated poses improve circulation and reduce stress.

12-1 p.m. | Wednesdays

Active Bodies

Circuit-style workout for all levels.

9-10 a.m. | Wednesdays

Zumba

Cardio workout to Latin-inspired dances.

5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays | 9-10 a.m. Saturdays

Pilates

Low-impact movements aim to strengthen muscles while improving posture and flexibility.

12 p.m. | Sunday

N. Hancock Ave., Colorado Springs

5745 Southmoor Dr., Colorado Springs

To register for classes, call 719-600-2644 or visit www.FVSCenter.org

SPECIAL EVENTS

District 3 Facilities Tour

See what the Widefield School District offers its students.

9:30 a.m. | May 10

Music on the Town

Reminisce while Starburn plays ’60s and ’70s rock at Stargazers.

6 p.m. | May 12

Cliff Dwellings

Peek into the past lifestyle of the Native Americans.

Call for time | May 17 | $20

Barb Bragdon at Lunch

Donations are welcome.

11:30 a.m. | May 18

Dinosaur Museum

Get up close to these prehistoric giants!

9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | May 31 | $20

ART

Interpretive Dance

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Mondays

Knitting/Crocheting

1-2 p.m. | Mondays

Tap Dance

10:15 a.m. | Tuesdays

Porcelain

9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; 12:30-3 p.m. |

Tuesdays

Quilters

8:30-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Oil Painting

9-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Harmonizers

2 p.m. | Wednesdays

Woodcarving

8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Thursdays

Card Making

9:30-11 a.m. | Thursdays

Card Making Gold

1 p.m. | 2nd & 4th Fridays

LEGAL

Legal Assistance

1:30 p.m. | 2nd Wednesday

HEALTH & FITNESS

Walking Tour

10 a.m. | Mondays

Chair Yoga

2:30-3:30 p.m. Mondays | 9-10 a.m. Fridays

Zumba Gold

9-10 a.m. | Tuesdays

Blood Pressure Checks

10:15 a.m. | 1st & 3rd Tuesdays

Cardio Drumming

2:30-3:30 p.m. | Tuesdays

Tai Chi 9:30-11 a.m. | Wednesdays

Dementia Support Group

2-3:30 p.m. | 3rd Wednesday

Chi Kung 10-11 a.m. | Fridays

GAMES & LEISURE

Ft. Logan Trip

9 a.m. | 2nd Monday

Movie Day–”Dark Waters”

1 p.m. | May 12

Bingo (and cash prizes)

1 p.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Birthday Social

Harmonizers perform at lunch. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | 4th Thursday

Wii Games 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Fridays

Ice Cream Social/Colorado Cowboys 12:30-2:30 p.m. | 3rd Friday | $1

Mystery Trip 9 a.m. | 4th Friday

Game Day 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 1st Saturday

Thrift Store Super Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | 1st Saturday

Cripple Creek Run Weather permitting. Reservations required. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 2nd Saturday

WOODLAND PARK

SENIOR ORGANIZATION

321 N. Pine St., Woodland Park

To register for classes, call 719-687-3877 or visit WoodlandParkSeniors.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Bowling Can you spare a strike?

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | May 5 | $5

Butte Theater

Enjoy a production at Cripple Creek’s historic theater.

10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | May 6 | $8

Colorado Wolf & Wildlife

See wolves, coyotes, and foxes in their natural habitat in this sanctuary dedicated to conservation.

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | May 19 | $10

Watercolor

Learn to paint with washes and layers.

1-4 p.m. | May15

HEALTH & FITNESS

Low-Impact Cardio

Tone muscle and pump up the heart in this low-impact exercise program.

9 a.m. | Tuesdays & Thursdays

Chair Yoga

Seated yoga poses improve circulation and range of motion and reduces stress.

9 a.m. | Wednesdays

Chair Tai Chi

Gentle, flowing movements alleviate stress, improve balance and reduce fall risk.

9 a.m. | Fridays

ACTIVITIES

Crochet & Knitting

Bring a project to work on and socialize.

10 a.m. | Wednesdays

Quilters

Bring a project to work on and socialize.

9 a.m. | Mondays

Dominos, Cribbage & Euchre

Choose to play any of these domino games—or all three!

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Monday-Friday

Bingo

Play for fun and prizes!

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Thursdays

ARTS & CRAFTS

Craft Workshops

Q-Tip painting and a TBD class will spark your creativity!

1-4 p.m. | May 12 & 26

Zumba

Cardio workout to Latin-inspired dances geared toward beginners.

10:30 a.m. | Fridays

Neighborhood Walk

Socialize and stroll together.

11 a.m.-12 p.m. | May 27

MEALS

Silver Key Lunch

Make a reservation 24 hours in advance.

11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Monday-Friday | $3.50

Potluck Lunch

Bring a dish to share.

11:45 a.m. | May 9

Catered Meal & Program

Don’t miss this Western history presentation. RSVP by May 19.

11:45 a.m. | May 23 | $7 ■

Each and every year, we help more than 2,000 patients and families navigate the challenges of a life-limiting illness with comfort, dignity and fulfillment.

It is our goal to raise $100,000 to support these programs and services

ACROSS

1. Acting part

5. Largest country in Africa

10. Freeway access

14. Cupid, to the Greeks

15. Me too

16. Robt.

17. Donated

18. Put a new price on 19. Moat

20. Mineral suffix

21. Prudence

23. Sailor 25. Let ___

26. Very cold 29. Chinese tea 33. Thin, crisp biscuit 35. ___ there yet?

37. Wine container 38. Old-fashioned exclamation of surprise 39. Pilfer 40. Office note 41. Wreath of flowers 42. Defraud 43. Green _____ is the place to be 44. Abject fear

46. Lunatic 48. Israel’s Barak

50. Gibson of tennis

53. Produced in the bonemarrow

58. ___-Margret

59. Oscar ___ Renta

60. Conductor Solti

61. Gaelic

62. Hissy fit

63. “Love Story” author Segal

64. A shivering fitoften a precursor to malaria

65. In ___ (actually)

66. Clear of vermin

67. Prepared to drive

1. Philbin of TV

2. Give a valedictory, say

3. Romantic relation ship

4. Computer ending

5. Loose-fitting skirt like garment

6. Computer owner

7. Go with

8. Fine fiddle

9. Person who stays up late

10. Gas up again

11. Sleep like ___

12. Interlock

13. Nuisance

21. So-so

22. Bassoon relative

24. TV horse

27. Must’ve been something ___

28. Fantasize

30. Gouge

31. Appoint

32. Pontiac muscle cars

33. Lash mark

34. “A Death in the Family” writer James

36. I could ___ horse!

39. Drew up shoulders

40. Future doc’s exam

42. Small salmon

49. Tractor pioneer John

51. Come after

53. Gds. 54. Itches

55. Yalies

56. Pinot ___ (wine)

57.

Turn to next spread for puzzle answers

COMPUTER & MEDIA

FLAT RATE COMPUTER REPAIR.

Starting at $60. Free pickup & delivery or up to 2 hours of on-site tune-up, virus removal and/or training. Call Richard with SOBE I.T. 719-470-1910.

FOR SALE

1987 BMW 325es, bronzit color, leather seats, power windows, sunroof, manual transmission, under 90,000 Miles, mostly original, no rust, meticulously cared for & garaged. All paperwork, 1-owner. $24,900 or reasonable offer. Collector quality, must see to believe! Colorado Springs. 719-548-8666.

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

Maxi’s Dance Group is back! Dance party every Thursday 6-9pm, Eagles Club 1050 S. 21st St. Music for ages 40+, food and drink available for purchase. $8 cover; $5 members. 719-660-1358.

HELP WANTED

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

HOME REPAIR

HOME REPAIR

MORE THAN A HANDYMAN. Home Maintenance, Repairs, Yard Work, Projects. 15% Senior Discount (62+). Call Mike - a Senior and Veteran. 719-338-4279. Voice mail answered same day.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. ODD

JOBS Plumbing, Carpentry, Fences, Decks, Doors, and more. (Mowing or yardwork in the spring and summer.) John 719-471-7471.

MUSICIAN WANTED

Volunteer brass players for The Salvation Army Colorado Springs Corps Band. 908 Yuma St. 80909. Band plays every first Sunday of the month. 10:15am to 11:15am. Contact: Lawrence Shiroma, Bandmaster. lawrence.shiroma@usw. salvationarmy.org Cell: 424-247-3109

REAL ESTATE

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

SERVICES

WANTED

DO YOU HAVE A SPARE BEDROOM? WANNA SHARE RENT? LIVING EXPENSES? COMPANIONSHIP? I DO! Prefer male senior citizen in Colorado Springs, strictly platonic, no anger management issues. I am a retired social worker/nurse. Love people! Text or Call 719-306-6120.

“You

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

(719) 661-7354

FREE

3938 Maizeland Rd & Academy

DAILY LABOR: Gutter cleaning, yard cleaning, house cleaning, gardening, handyman repairs by size. Painting $25 per hour. 719-310-5247.

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

S.C.S.E. SANDYS CARE SERVICE EXPRESS Specializing in same day, last minute, when available. Mail –bank – babysitting – shower – meals - dog feeding etc. 9am-4pm, MondayFriday. 719-203-8898.

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

1950S-1960S LP’S, 78’S AND 45’S. Blues, jazz, rock ‘n roll, country, Broadway, movie soundtracks, TV, R&B, soul, children’s, spoken word, etc. I’m a collector, not a business. Call me first - I pay the most for your records. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288

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

VINTAGE ITEMS WANTED. TOYS, comic books, children’s books, dolls, movie and music posters, Halloween, guitars and amplifiers, and plastic model kits. I’m a collector, not a business. 719-633-5848 or 719-4409288.

CASH FOR KNIFE OR BELT BUCKLE COLLECTIONS. Large and small collections purchased, please call me to schedule an appointment to see collection and make an offer. Thanks! 719-460-5570

RESTAURANTS

to turn your want ads into dollars!

719-900-7664

Puzzle Answers

Can Relax Knowing Helping Hands Are On The Job!”

How to feed nine billion people

By Beth Ellikidis

The human population has just crossed the threshold of 8 billion—that’s four times greater than 100 years ago. Demographers forecast we’ll reach nine billion within the next few decades.

With more and more people, the challenge of meeting basic needs, starting with food, is mounting each year. In fact, the United Nations reports that global food insecurity has “hit new peaks” due to a confluence of crises, and signs point to things getting worse.

But thanks to the power of science, we can mitigate contributing factors such as drought, pestilence and climate change, helping to feed humanity even as our numbers keep increasing.

In 1929, 1.35 billion people (two-thirds of all human beings) lived in extreme poverty. By 2015, that number was down in absolute terms to 734 million—just around 10% of humanity. In 2019, the percentage of the global population classified as undernourished stood at 8.9%—a figure that, while still too high, represents tremendous progress.

At first blush, these statistics don’t seem to make sense. How can a population double twice over on a planet with scarce resources and people end up less hungry and less poor? But that’s exactly what happened, and it’s thanks to humanity’s capacity to get better at what we do.

In the 20th century, inventors and agricultural scientists ushered in the Green Revolution, a period in which new inventions and processes increased crop yields exponentially. In 1909, two German chemists invented synthetic nitrogen, a

chemical key to plant growth. Instead of relying only on manure and dead plants to feed crops nitrogen, farmers now had unlimited access to inexpensive supplies at greater concentration.

Later in the century, Norman Borlaug, an American agronomist, developed new breeds of wheat to control the height of the stem. Better fertilization was causing stems to grow too tall, and heavier grains were toppling the plants before harvest. The new wheat breed has tripled yields since the 1960s. Borlaug also applied his breeding technique to rice and won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work.

Right now, the latest installment of the Green Revolution is already underway. This time, it’s not what we add to crops; it’s how we structure their genetic code to select for desirable characteristics.

Consider drought. Areas without water for extended periods of time won’t yield enough crops to feed local populations. But with the gene-editing technology CRISPR, which can “cut and paste” individual genes, scientists have added or removed genes to make such crops as corn and tomatoes require less water and withstand drier conditions. CRISPR has the potential to speed up the results from selective breeding processes that Borlaug had to spend decades to achieve. For example, snipping just one gene from rice and corn can increase yields by 10%. And it takes just one growing season to reap the benefits.

Eight billion people is a lot. But by harnessing the power of gene editing and other advanced agricultural technologies, we’ll be able to ensure everyone on the planet has enough to eat. ■

Beth Ellikidis is vice president of agriculture and environment at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization. This piece originally appeared in Agri-Pulse.