February SENIOR NEWS: Vaccines are all the rage
Well, it seems like everyone is talking about the vaccines… did you get it? I just got my first one. I’ve been trying for weeks. I’m on multiple lists. I had to drive to Denver to get it. Blah Blah Blah.
I’ve had multiple friends say this week that they have got the vaccine, and I’ve read comments by a dozen more on Facebook that they got their first shot. All but one said they got it through SALUD clinic – at various locations in the Front Range. If you would like more information, go to: https://www.saludclinic.org/covid-vaccine They all got an appointment in about a week after signing up.
HOW TO GET A PHARMACY APPOINTMENT:
A million vaccines were sent to certain major pharmacies across the nation last week, which included Walmart, Sam’s Club, Walgreens, Safeway and King Sooper. Suddenly it was the Hot Spot to sign up for vaccines.
Here are two entries from Lyons Happenings on Facebook:
“Walmart Vaccine Update! My son was able to get me an appointment at the Longmont Walmart for the Moderna Vaccine this Saturday. You have to play the system! He went online at 11:59 pm and was ready to register me for an appointment at 12:00 am when they release the next date for appointments. (Usually 1 week away.) All appointments were filled by 12:04 am. If you can’t stay up that late, or can’t get online, pay a teenager to do it for you. (I know this really sucks for older people who aren’t tech savvy.) –It also works at Walgreens, Safeway and King Soopers as far as I know.” by Robyn Sloan.
An important detail was added by Connie Mann:
“When you sign up at Wal-Mart you have to click through a bunch of medical questions and click “I agree” to some disclaimers. Also need your Dr name and phone number. So if a senior were to pay a teenager to sign up for them, I think the senior should be sitting there with them to answer the questions and just have the kid navigate the system for them. I wouldn’t pay a teenager to answer and agree to medical statements on my behalf. Your son signing you up is different as he is an adult and knows your particulars. Just my opinion.”
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UC Health is the only other place mentioned in the Facebook postings.
Connie Mann stated: “I talked to a lady up in the Lyons park yesterday that is a nurse at BCH. I mentioned that my mother-in-law who is 84 has still not gotten called for her shot. The lady told me that anyone who is over 70 should call BCH and they will schedule them right away ahead of the 65-69 year olds. I would assume the same is true at places like UCHealth.”
Boulder Community Health said that if “you (seniors) are unable to use the MyBCH patient portal, we have set up a call center specifically to help 70-and-older residents register for vaccination. Eligible seniors can call (303) 415-7777 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. As you’d expect, we are getting lots of calls, so you may experience longer wait times.”
You can also Sign up with a vaccine provider at Boulder County’s web site: www.boco.org/COVIDVaccines If you are working at a school or company, you can sign up through them.
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COVID – go to our COVID page for the latest news. We have a fresh article each month on COVID-19 news. Throughout the month it is updated with any important data that comes in. It also has the latest charts, phases, color charts, and more. It is hard to keep up with the changes! — I also put in my weekly NOTES FROM YOUR EDITOR small bits of news, statistics for Boulder/Larimer County and Lyons, and such.
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COVID-19 NEWS AND FACTS:
The state has surpassed 500,000 doses. In the skilled nursing facilities — 100 percent have received their vaccines; and 71 percent have got their second dose.
The vaccines were opened to those 70 and older in January. There are 530,000 people over the age of 70. The next Phase 1.B.2 is now open, February 8, and allowing those 65 to 69 years of age to get the vaccine. Also, those who have two of the listed conditions can apply. For those 60 to 64 years of age, they fall in the Phase 1.B.3 and that will start March 2. The elderly are prioritized because 75% of deaths were seniors. It is the governor’s aim to get all those 70 and older done by the end of February, and give them priority over the others on the newly opened list.
Governor Polis extended an Executive Order permitting voluntary or elective surgeries and procedures under certain conditions in Colorado.
Five star businesses/restaurants had to follow stringent rules to get the rating. Therefore, they are allowed to operate one level lower on the dial. Boulder and Larimer County is in Yellow status, so the restaurants can operate in level Blue. This means they can serve indoors at 50 percent capacity. (see our COVID page for a list of all the restrictions)
TRAVEL:
Once you get your two vaccines, you may want to do some travelling. But be warned, that many places will still have heavy restrictions, like the number of people allowed in a room… even museums and zoos. == Persons in all federal buildings must wear masks and social distance. The CDC issued orders Feb. 3 for the same on planes, trains, buses, taxi’s, ride shares and the like. Refusal is a violation of federal law. Those under two years of age, or with certain disabilities will be excused. === A survey of medical experts on the evening news 2/16 found that they would still not travel via plane or eat in restaurants indoors till the summer. You can still pick the virus up, and pass it on to other friends and relatives; so wear your mask!
SYMPTOMS/ SIDE EFFECTS: The vast majority of people do not have any side effects after the first shot, other than a slightly sore arm. Some experience headaches. It is advised that you not drink the night before, or take pain killers before your appointment, or eat a big meal. Your body will be fighting a suppose virus and needs to pay attention to what its tasks is. After the second dose, some side effects for the minority of people is soreness, fever, headaches, and muscle aches.
The second one is scheduled at the same time that you get your first one. It will be one month later. You wait after getting your shot for a 15-minute period to make sure you are alright. The public is encouraged to report possible side effects (called adverse events) to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Out of MILLIONS of vaccines that have been given, there were approximately 600 people who had adverse effects, none of which were life threatening.
TESTING: Vaccine testing continues in Lyons every Friday 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Second Avenue. It is free, and you do not have to have symptoms to get it done. No ID required. Please be sure to give them your street address, as POBoxes are entered in the wrong category.
Lyons currently has had 68 cases. (see EDITOR NOTES article for weekly updates)
The CDC says it’s too soon to waive the mask mandate.
Even if you have had both vaccines, you should still wear a mask and social distance, as appropriate.
The CDC recommends that you double-mask; with the idea that it is tight around your nose and mouth.
A 116-year-old French nun who is believed to be the world’s second-oldest person has survived COVID-19. Sister André of France.
NURSING HOME VISITATION: I am waiting for “Last Minute” news from the Governor’s Office on lifting of restrictions, and I will insert it here, if/and/when I hear back from them.
CLASSES, MEETINGS, ACTIVITIES
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===BOULDER COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING (BCAAA)===
Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA) has online and phone services for clients. The staff is available to answer calls and emails from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (303) 441-3570.
The BCAAA responds to the needs of older adults (60+) and their family and informal caregivers in our community through advocacy, funding, direct service, planning, and education.
===BOULDER COUNTY AGING/ NUTRITION is offering FRESH CONVERSATIONS
This new program is being offered remotely via ZOOM to meet monthly, with a different nutrition/health topic being discussed each time.
Any Coloradoan 60 years old or older can participate in the meetings, especially those who are interested in positively transforming their personal health. Contact Patti Murphy, Registered Dietitian with Boulder Aging at pamurphy@bouldercounty.org or (303) 441-4710. Sample topics are: Heart Disease Myths and Facts == The Down Low on Processed Foods == Keeping Up with Diet Trends.
The Boulder County NEWSLETTER provides up-to-date information to you about nutrition and health research. Also low-cost health recipes, easy ways to be active at home, puzzles, games and more.
You can also connect with other older adults for a friend discussion focused on nutrition and physical activity education.
===LARIMER COUNTY – OFFICE ON AGING ===
While the Lyons Recorder focuses on Boulder County most of the time, Larimer County has some excellent resources for those seniors who live in the vast areas of Spring Gulch, Pinewood Springs, and more. See the list, and links at: https://www.larimer.org/humanservices/aging/ooa == 970-498-7750 ==1501 Blue Spruce, Fort Collins, CO 80524=Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., BY APPOINTMENT
===The Alzheimer’s Association has almost daily classes on different aspects of recognizing it, working with it, and assisting caregivers. Here is a link to the document listing all the classes, dates, and links, which you can bookmark or print up: https://stage.alz.org/media/co/documents/Regional-Education-Jan-2021.pdf
===Are you Feeling Down? ==LEAF is offering free online Mental Wellness sessions. It includes talks about dealing with stress, depression, using mindfulness tools, coping with grief, dealing with family, and more. You can write mentalwellness@leaflyons.org for more information. = NOTE, this is temporarily closed this month of February.
===LYONS WEDNESDAY WALKERS: The Town of Lyons Recreation Department is still running the Wednesday Walkers group. They meet at the senior center at 11 a.m. and walk to a park and do some light exercises. Contact LRamsey@townoflyons.com to get on the e-mail list or to see if the class is running on the day you want to join them. Free. 55 years and older. = NOTE, this has been cancelled when the weather goes below freezing. Always check with Lisa before coming down if weather is bad. Approximately four to seven people participate.
===ICE SKATING IN LYONS: The ice-skating rink in LaVern Johnson Park is now open. Skate rentals are available, as well as classes. Go here for all the facts: https://www.townoflyons.com/591/Ice-Skating-at-LaVern-M-Johnson-Park The park will close without notice if bad or warm weather. If you are unsure, don’t park your car, but drive up to the furthest gate to see if the sign says the rink is closed.
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==Rocky Mt. Conference on Dementia: March 10 & 11 from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.= with breaks throughout. Visit our website to register by clicking here.
There is no cost to attend the 2021 conference– For over 30 years, the Colorado chapter has hosted an education conference for family caregivers, friends and professional care providers to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This we will be live via webinar. Find out about the latest advances in research on day one, during our keynote featuring Alzheimer’s Association Director of Scientific Engagement Rebecca Edelmayer, Ph.D. On day two, join us to learn more about other types of dementia from a panel of experts. Sessions will include ways to practice self-care, help navigating all of the care options, learn what person-centered care really looks like, how to make each day a meaningful one for those you care for, and the importance of tackling those tough conversations about end of life. We will close both days with a touch of humor and hope.
==VIEW 105 PIECES OF “LOCAL” ART — February 2021 — Longmont Library has an online ART SHOW. You can do an “Art Walk” from your home computer! just click on the box, and see them one by one. They are a large variety, and many age groups, but all wonderful! Brew a hot cup of tea, put a blanket on your knees, and sit back and enjoy. It will bring a smile to your day.
==VOTE!! online == HISTORIC PHOTOS == The design of the new North Boulder Branch Library is wrapping up and we’d like your help in selecting a beautiful detail! Help us select historical photos representing Boulder’s history and culture. The images from these photos will be used in colorful patterns on wallpaper for the walls and restrooms of the new library. You can choose up to 70 (I think there may be 150 of them, but a fascinating study of life in Boulder County over the century… so sit back and enjoy) == Voting ends 2/28/21.== Boulder Library
==WELL BEING EXPERIENCE BAGS
Building on the success of the Experience Bags and in recognition of the epidemic of mental health illness in our country and community, the Library introduced Well-being Bags in 2018. Our first Well-being Bags were created in collaboration with Supporting Action for Mental Health and grew from there.
The goal of our Well-being Bags is to help you lead a healthier, happier, better-all-around life.
Each bag has all you’ll need to dive deeper into a favorite subject — DVD movies, music CDs, books and reference articles, and other interesting items, like puzzles, games, or fun challenges.
(Brought to you by the Longmont Library) == The lowdown:
Well-being Bags check-out for two weeks, so you have plenty of time to plan and enjoy your bag.
Bags are available only to Longmont Library card holders and must be borrowed and returned from the Longmont Library.
Bags are not renewable, and each patron may only check out one bag at a time.
Overdue fines for all bags in this collection are $1 per day, per bag.
The bags are located in the Library lobby, between the stairs and the elevator so stop by and browse.
The links below will take you to the Library’s catalog, where you can place a hold on the bag of your choice!
Boost Your Well-being:
Experience Well-being: Supporting Mental Health
Experience Well-being: Memory Minder Kit for Caregivers of Those with Memory Loss (Early Stage)
Experience Well-being: Memory Minder Kit for Caregivers of Those with Memory Loss (Middle Stage)
Experience Well-being: Memory Minder Kit for Caregivers of Those with Memory Loss (Late Stage)
Experience Well-being: Meditation & Mindfulness
==LYONS SENIOR FILM CLUB:
While we have been unable to view unique and quality films together, and discuss them, due to the Walt Self Senior Center being closed by Boulder County, due to COVID-19 restrictions, you may consider checking out AARP’s annual “Movies for Grown Ups” list — they have the top ones listed, including who is up for awards. NOTE – Both the Boulder Century Theater and the Estes Park Reel Mtn Theater are open and showing recent films. They do a deep cleaning of the rooms, and insist on proper social distancing. You have to buy your tickets online to reserve a spot. Wear a mask. Enjoy.
FUN ACTIVITY===BINGO===
1. American Legion in Estes Park has it weekly. – This is currently on hold. Go to this page for updates: https://www.estesvolunteers.org/event/detail/?event_id=67588
2. Longmont Public Library and Friends of the Longmont Library conducts it online.
Pick up a bingo card at the Library’s Curbside Delivery during open hours or download and print your bingo board online, beginning January 2 and running through February 28. http://bit.ly/LibPrograms
3. The Lyons Booster Club sponsors Bingo in Longmont’s Bingo Alley, which raises money for school supplies purchases. They just restarted it this February 2021. See our Article on “SCHOOL NEWS, February 2021” for more details. lyonsboosterclub@gmail.com
Town & General News
===LYONS LIBRARY: The Lyons Community Library returned to Curbside Pickup Service only November 16th. The library’s hours of operation will remain the same (mainly open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. MOST DAYS), with some services still offered by appointment. We have a monthly article with updates. Or, go to: https://lyonslibrary.com.
Register now for their first Winter Reading Program: Warm Up to Great Books! The program runs January 15 – March 15, 2021 and features challenges for Kids, and Adults. Simply log your reading and activities and unlock badges to earn tickets for prize drawings. Register at: https://lyons.colibraries.org/2021-winter-reading-program/
==NEW BUSINESSES:
There are multiple new businesses in town, with many of them operating out of a “food truck,” or out of a person’s home kitchen, or existing businesses that have new product lines. Every week they are announced in the “Notes From Your Editor” column. There were so many in the last few weeks that I had to create a whole new page just for BUSINESS NEWS. (I don’t know how long this will last; maybe it is because of COVID –more people are opening their own little businesses).
==AUTO THEFT is on the rise in Lyons. Be sure to lock your car doors, and house doors. We have a article on “CRIME” that lists the latest incidents this month. The Sheriff found that there were a series of thefts in early February and we have the direct contact info for you to report any missing items from your car. We also have an update on the increase in dangerous drug sales. Auto thief in Colorado is up almost 3 percent. There is also an increase in murders in 2020, by 50 percent.
==DEPRESSED/ SUICIDAL? Colorado has one of the highest rates in the country. You can seek mental health assistance through LEAF, or call the Suicide Hotline. Colorado: (844) 493-TALK//1-844-493-8255 – National (800) 273-8255. Both are Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish. Check out the Lyons Recorder’s Emotional and Mental Resource List.
==CONSUMER CELLULAR: The favorite cell phone company of seniors across America. Rated #1 in customer service by JD Power. They let you take as much time on their customer service lines as you need to get your questions answered. – NEWS: for the first time in their history, they have new owners, as of February. “It’s an honor and a privilege to introduce myself to Consumer Cellular’s dedicated customers as our new CEO. The company’s co-founder and co-owner, John Marick, retired in December after an incredible 25-year run building Consumer Cellular from a small startup to a revered nationwide wireless carrier. A controlling stake in the business has been purchased by GTCR, a private equity firm with a long history in the cellular industry, and as part of that transition, I have taken the role of CEO,” Ed Evans, CEO.
==TAX HELP – AARP help is back!
Here is the General Information web page: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/
Local: Longmont Senior Center and Boulder West Senior Center. Also in the Estes Park Library.
Note that tax service availability (in-person, virtually, or both) is available by appointment only, and will vary due to COVID spread and volunteer capacity, and may therefore be limited depending on your location.
Longmont Library: https://www.longmontcolorado.gov/departments/departments-e-m/library/eresearch/tax-information-and-forms
Estes Park Library: https://estesvalleylibrary.org/services/tax-preparation-assistance/
Boulder Library: https://research.boulderlibrary.org/c.php?g=204227&p=1390334
You will need to complete an intake packet and bring it with you to your appointment. On appointment day, you’ll also need to bring your photo IDs, all Social Security or ITIN cards (no Medicare cards), all tax forms you’ve received, and documentation to support deductions. Even if you don’t normally itemize deductions, bring evidence of contributions if they exceed $500 because of a Colorado tax benefit. An organized compilation and totaling of such expenses beforehand will facilitate the preparation of your return.
FREEWARE: We will have either an article or notes in the weekly Editor’s news column about the FREE tax software available; and how the federal government has had to step up to fight the software companies’ deceitful practices.
Meals and Health
The Meal Schedule Remains the Same:
===FREE MONDAY SUPPER: The River Church will be serving free suppers in a box to those who need a hot meal on Monday nights. Arrive between 5 and 5:30 p.m. in front of the Walt Self Center. Please wear masks and stay six feet away from others. No other church has indicated that they will restart the Monday night suppers. (We have been unable to confirm when this service will end).
===BOULDER COUNTY AGING – LUNCHES: Changes for the lunch program: Boulder County Area Aging (BCAAA) is continuing its lunch schedule. But, starting in January, they switched to Tuesdays and Thursdays. Nutritious quality lunches for seniors ages 65 and up can be ordered by 1p.m. the day before at (303) 441-1415, and picked up in front of the Walt Self Senior Center at 12 noon. Please wear a mask and stay six feet away from others. == Upcoming meals include: For you vegetarians, this month there is turkey meatloaf and eggplant parmesan, as well as salsa-verde-cheese enchiladas. Other items are baked-garlic-parmesan pork chops, roasted turkey, and chicken Kiev. And more.== I post the menu at the beginning of each month on the senior Facebook page.
We thank Teresa DeAnni, Boulder County Healthy Aging Program Manager, and Boulder County, for writing the grants to subsidize the lunch costs, and for Helen Vanderwerken for serving the meal boxes twice a week. It is keeping our seniors healthy and happy!
===LYONS EMERGENCY & ASSISTANCE FUND
***The Food Bank that is run by LEAF will remain with curbside delivery, due to the “high risk” level of Boulder County. Pull up in front of the Community Church, wear a mask and stay in your car. Someone will come up to your passenger window and help you. If you are handicap or unable to drive to the Food Bank, LEAF can arrange to have the food box delivered to your home.
***Meals on Wheels is still active in Lyons, and handled through LEAF. If you are unable to cook for yourself, or have other elderly disabilities, call them to set up delivery.
NEED INFO ON MEDICARE INSURANCE: Lynette Anderson I’m the gal that was working at Walt Self counseling office pre-COVID, and am happy to get you linked to Medicare folks. You can call 303-441-1546 (that is the Medicare counseling info line). If you leave a message, they can call you back. They are stellar! And here is a link to the BoCo Medicare Counseling page. You can also PM me, I’m happy to chat and see how we can support your needs. This is the link for virtual Medicare classes as well. https://www.bouldercounty.org/…/medicare-counseling/ My work cell is 720-766-8844; if I don’t answer, just leave me a message. I’m working from home, and I live in town.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to:
Linda Harkness, Maxine Harkalis, Walt Kinderman, Stevie LaRue, Greg Miller, Ron Pederson, Michael Tovani, Jim Luebbers, and Jim Kerr! We encourage you do something SPECIAL for your birthday!
