June SENIOR NEWS: Heavy rains creating abundant gardens
Dear Seniors,
It seems that Lyons has experienced a month of daily rainfalls this spring. Last weekend many areas around Lyons got two inches over two days, and some got pea-size hail covering the ground. We are in a lucky space where we are out of the drought, but we are not getting flooding
Many locals are saying that their spring flowers and cold-weather vegetables are growing like crazy. One woman said that she didn’t even know that she had a lillac bush as it had never bloomed before! But this also means that our grass is a foot tall, and no dry days in sight for at least another week to ten days.
What is your favorite springtime flower? I always loved the color and smell of lilacs, and even bought a cologne (in my youth) that smelled like it. Another one was the forsythia bursting with yellow flowers! And, a very popular flower in Colorado is the multi-colored iris (the deer like to munch on the tulips). Do you see some new flowers in your yard gulping up the rain and being especially beautiful this year?
Don’t forget to get some photos, as we might not see this again… the weather forecasters (meteorologists) say this is a very unusual circumstance, with an unusual jet stream of moisture blowing in from the Gulf, and added to that, the warm air (in the 80’s) in eastern Colorado blowing into the cooler (50’s and 60’s) Denver/Palmer Divide wet weather (a convergence zone).
Take advantage of this and go on the annual Garden Club “house garden tour” this weekend! for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Kathleen Spring ……… Loving Lyons Senior Group
PS Please note, some of this Newsletter is a repeat, but almost every section DOES HAVE FRESH NEWS!
News You Can Use
SURVEY OF OLDER ADULTS: Every four years the Denver Regional Council of Governance DRCOG develops an Area Plan for the Aging Community input. Surprisingly, and happily, … the survey found that there were 13 areas where older adults felt conditions had improved since 2018,… everything from “sense of community,” overall physical health, …to housing options… maintaining their home… and, to not being a victim of crime or scam. Visit www.DRCOG.org/casoa to see the full report. 82% reported that their neighborhood was a good place to live, and about 2/3rds said they’d recommend retiring in the Denver metro area. 3/4rds said they are likely to remain IN their community. — Most seniors in Lyons that I have known want to stay in their home, and are very happy with it. It is usually something out of their control that causes them to move, such as being closer to their children or their doctors for daily needs.
See below under BOULDER COUNTY two “awareness & prevention days” this month.
LYONS SENIORS enjoyed their SPRING PICNIC… indoors! — Yes, it was another rainy cold May day. The tons of tasty food was enjoyed by the tons of people who attended! It was one of our biggest crowds, with the need to seek out more chairs.
The bi-weekly Lyons exercise group did a modern, kicking dance for the group, and many got up and joined them. It was also one of the most birthday people who showed up for the Birthday party. Mark your calendar for the next birthday party June 14th at 12:30 p.m. And, see below for the next Senior Bus Trip, in July.
MEDICAL NEWS
==The Colorado Gerontological Society would like to help you learn about the expansion of dental services for Older Adults. It is available in Denver, Boulder and Larimer County… age 60 and over, and low income. It provides exams, x-rays, fillings, extractions, full and partial dentures. (no root canals or crowns or implants). This starts July 1, 2023. www.senioranswers.org/programs/dental-grants or call 303-333-3482.
==Anxiety affects nearly 30% of people at some point in their lives, and it often goes hand in hand with depression. Now you can get Behavioral Health help online (digital). See this ARTICLE for more information; or consult with your doctor.
Lyons Recorder ARTICLES of interest to Seniors, May 10-June 10, 2023
==Schedule for gardening projects of Lyons garden and weeding groups, and updates on their progress ARTICLE
==Telehealth for Anxiety ARTICLE
==Articles on bus service, most are free. Go to Search box and insert “bus” or “shuttle” – zTrip, Flyer, VIA, RMNP, Bustang, Eldorado Park
==Book on fly fishing by our local expert, and his philosophy on life, John Gierach. ARTICLE
==May History Month – History Preservation in Boulder County “awards” ARTICLE
==Construction in Lyons area ARTICLE
==update on affordable housing at Summit; first move in’s will be in June; still time to apply! See requirement list. ARTICLE
==Boulder County district lines changed due to population change; do survey ARTICLE
==Join those who are the 1st generation to graduate from college (funds available). ARTICLE
==Interview of artist Linda Backup who has an exhibition in the library ARTICLE
==PHOTO SPREADs of the month – (1) bears (2) elk, fox, deer (3) birds (4) landscapes – you can begin here: LINK
TOWN of Lyons SENIOR ACTIVITES
Senior Bus Trip to Colorado Rockies VS Houston Astros
There’s nothing more American than baseball, hot dogs, and apple pie, so hop on the bus with us and you can enjoy all three! While one of those is in the non-traditional form of Apple Pie Nachos, th e baseball and hot dogs are classics. Our driver will drop us at the entrance to make our way to our lovely seats in the shade along the third base line. The cost is only $12 and you can drop your payment (checks made out to Town of Lyons) at Town Hall, 432 5th Ave. Don’t forget your beer (and lunch and snack) money. We’re relaxing and enjoying the game!
Ages: Lyons seniors 55 and up
Date: Wednesday, July 19, 11:30 am – 5:30 pm
Location: bus leaves from Walt Self, 335 Railroad Ave
Fee: $12, plus money for food and drink.
TO REGISTER CONTACT: lramsey@townoflyons.com or 303-823-6622 ext 30
SENIOR BIRTHDAY PARTY DATE ==== MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PARTY on the SECOND WEDNESDAY of the month —- Any senior in Lyons can attend. There usually is a tasty baked good, song, and a game or simple craft . — next one: May 10, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. This is sponsored by the Town of Lyons. The May event was really big! …we had to get extra chairs! Such fun!
LYONS SENIOR EXERCISE – 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., free. For Lyons area seniors 55+ === This has been moved to the Johnson Park for the summer months. For info; and to check if it has been cancelled, or will be partially outside: Contact Lramsey@townoflyons.com Usually consists of: using hand weights; walking; stretching; and mild yoga. REGISTER A golf cart shuttle is available from the Senior Center.
The Town also offers free drop in basketball, soccer and pickleball. See their PAGE for details. Co-Ed Softball LEAGUE is now open for registration.
BOULDER COUNTY Office on AGING (BCAAA)
Mountain Resource Specialist for Lyons
Welcome to Amy Shoffner === Email: ashoffner@bouldercounty.org === Phone: 720-766-8844
Here’s a short description of their services to Boulder County seniors:
The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA) has been serving older adults and caregivers in the mountains for 30 years by having Resource Specialists dedicated to residents of western Boulder County. Amy provides direct client services by getting to know clients during an appointment to determine client needs and then providing information and making referrals to community partners and other helpful resources. Amy serves clients in Lyons, Allenspark, and surrounding areas. 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. The BCAAA works with public and private partners to respond to the client’s unique needs. The BCAAA offers:
- Information, Referral, and Resources
- Financial Assistance
- Healthy Aging Programs
- Medicare Counseling
- Caregiver Programs
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman
- Nutrition Resources
- LGBTQ+ Programs
Most of our services are provided at no charge. There are no income eligibility requirements. Contact the Mountain Resource Specialist serving your area for assistance.
BOULDER COUNTY BCAAA / Aging
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day:
Elder abuse is a problem that can happen to anyone and does. It is often underreported, and only one out of every 24 cases investigated by authorities. The rate is even less for financial exploitation. Boulder County is experiencing a demographic shift. The number of residents 80+ is currently just over 11,000, but is projected to increase to just over 38,000 by 2050. As our population lives longer, we are presented with an opportunity to think about our collective needs and future as a community. June 15, Denver. Registration: https://bit.ly/3C24SNo
Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, June 5-9, 2023
- Charging for services or supplies that were not provided
- Misrepresenting a diagnosis, a person’s identity, the service provided, or other facts to justify payment
- Prescribing or providing excessive or unnecessary tests and services
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Boulder County Aging = BCAAA 303-441-1617 or infoADRC@boulderconty.org main number is (720) 766-8844, or email infoADRC@bouldercounty.org. == Larimer County residents can contact their Office on Aging == https://www.larimer.gov/humanservices/aging/ooa.
CONVERSATIONS (online/Zoom) — Fresh Conversations is an evidence-based nutrition education program focused on timely nutrition topics presented monthly. Fresh Conversations is led by Patti Murphy, RDN. The program is held virtually over Zoom. When: 2nd Wednesday of each mont. Questions? Please email infohealthyaging@bouldercounty.org. == Wedn. June 14, 2023. 1-2 p.m. online. Topic: Macular Degeneration. REGISTER
BASICS in MEDICARE CLASS (Online) boco.org/Medicare For more information, or to set up an appointment, please call 303-441-1546.This class fills up fast; but is repeated.
Nutrition Counseling: Individualized counseling and coaching from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist are available for Boulder County residents. Call 303-678-6115 (English) or 720-930-0223 (en español) with your contact information.
LUNCHES: Served Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in the Walt Self Senior Center (located in the Boulder Housing apartment complex community center next to the Post Office). You can order a tasty catered meal by 1 p.m. the day before at 303-441-1415. The menu is read to you on the answering machine’s message. === closed July 4th, Tuesday ====
*SPEAKER* July 26, Wednesday. 12:30 p.m. at Lyons Senior Center. Tru Pace Care presentation.
====ACTIVITIES and EDUCATIONAL Programs====
Shakespeare Festival “Much Ado About Nothing” — Join the CO Shakespeare Festival (going on since 1958) on the CU Boulder campus. Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre (with complimentary seatbacks included) From June 11 to August 13. www.tickets.cupresents.org/ or 303-492-8008.
June 9, 6:30 p.m. – Friday, for this fun presentation on the Old West! By Hollywood clothing artist Mad Mike. He’s made authentic buck skin costumes for many movies! Free. SpiritHound Distillers.
June 14, 12:30p.m. – monthly birthday party at the senior center (see above under Town activities for details)
June 17 – PRIDE MONTH: Lyons will have a celebration and parade, with speakers, vendors, cup cakes, ice cream and more on Saturday, 3-6p.m. in Sandstone Park. See ARTICLE for more info; it also lists events THIS MONTH in Longmont and Boulder.
June 17, Annual Lyons HOME GARDEN TOUR Saturday. Tickets are by “donation.” 10 beautiful homes this year! Ask the owners for some gardening tips! ARTICLE
June 12 – Alzheimer’s Assn. presents a free program “Understanding Alzheimer and Dementia” at 5p.m. on Zoom on June 12. Register 800-272-3900. Covers stages, impact, research.
June 19 — first of three “Open Studio” ==June 19th, July 17th, and August 21st, 10am-12pm
Library Community Room – Bring in your works-in-progress such as: knitting, crocheting, drawing, sketching, embroidery, painting, and other portable projects to create and connect with others in the community. No registration required. Questions: hannah@lyonsregionallibrary.com.
June 21 – first Concert in the Park – Joe Kuckla – (see the new expanded stage in Sandstone Park) Every Wednesday.
June 24, Good Old Days Program at Lyons Redstone Museum. The name has changed to History Day at the Museum, due to the Town of Lyons no longer participating in the traditional event. Plus announcing Mr & Mrs Good Old Days; and local pioneer families. Town officials and commission representatives will speak. Followed by fun activities and refreshments.
June 28, 12:30p.m. stop by the Senior Center for “Game Day” – a different one each month.
June 29, 10 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. – Blood Drive – Lyons Regional Library. Sign up today: Vitalant.
July 4th – government offices closed, including the Senior Center.
July 12, 4:30 – 6 p.m. 3rd Quarter Art Show, in library and town hall, with food, drinks and music! *Your “funky town” art work is due by the Friday before. (up to 5 pieces “ready to hang”)
July 26, Tru Pace care presentation at Senior Center. 12:30p.m.
AARP online class:
virtual exercise experience with Seated QiGong (the Five Fire Elements; heart) or Standing QiGong. Presented by Dr. Juli Kramer, the exercises, stretches, and routines you’ll learn are thousands of years old. The practice is dynamic, breath-centered and uses gentle stretching and flowing movements to embody elements of nature, leaving you feeling revitalized and tranquil. REGISTER.
At the city of Boulder Senior Center; contact them for more information:
Walk with Ease: A Feldenkrais Series==June 6–27, 2:30–4p.m., Fees: R/NR $40/$50. ===This class will explore gentle movements of the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education®, especially designed to improve balance and coordination indoors, and then to include a short walk outdoors.
NEW! MHP Peer Counseling: Women’s Support Group=== 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, June 7 and 21, 2-3:30 p.m.===This group meets twice monthly for a confidential, emotionally supportive conversation about the challenges associated with aging. For more information or to register, contact MHP Senior Peer Counseling Program at 303-402-8022.
Dance for Parkinson’s with 3rd Law Dance Theater==== weekly on Thursdays (NO class June 29), 1–2p.m.====Gentle movement classes for people living with Parkinson’s Disease or other mobility considerations.
======Repeated Activities========
Drop In Pickleball– June 1 – Aug 31 hours are 8:00 – 10:00 am = Location: Bohn Park Multisport Court, 199 2nd Ave = Fee: FREE (Town of Lyons Recreation Dept)
GAME DAY: Don’t forget about the new Game Day, the 4th Wednesday of each month, at the Senior Center at 12:30p.m. Currently they are playing a new board game every month, but may expand into card playing, and perhaps Bingo. Stop by and meet them and share your ideas. This is put on by the Seniors (and not the Town).
BINGO IN LYONS! – 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Main Stage Brewing (located at corner of Main Street and Hwy 36 going toward Estes Park). First card is free, prizes each round plus a final cash jackpot! Bring money for pizza and beer.
The Lyons Library has a “Knitting with Friends” group that meets every Wednesday from 3 to 5p.m. Contact the library for registration or fee requirements.
A place for women to come together to share their journey with other women. Future meetings will have cacao ceremonies, fireside gatherings, meals together, meditation, yoga, and other balancing activities. Nancy Pecone for more details misslinney@gmail.com
You Can Become a Savvy Caregiver, Longmont = Call Longmont Senior Center 303-651-8411 to register. This training program teaches an understanding of dementia and strives to increase caregiver confidence while reducing the adverse effects of caregiving.
LIBRARY VIRTUAL AUTHOR TALKS: virtual author talk series website.
Lyons “2nd Quarter Art Show” = April 12 to July 12 = The show in Town Hall has the theme “Oh, the places you’ve gone!” — residents art. = And solo exhibition of 40 pieces in the Lyons Library by local Linda Backup “Places of the Heart.” —Program coordinated and presented by Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission. Supported by Lyons Community Foundation.
Lyons LIBRARY BOOK CLUB. “Busy Readers Book Club.” ==== June 11, 2:30 – 5p.m. – Bread & Poetry is a new monthly book discussion event for the whole community. at A-Lodge Rock Garden (outside)
Happy Birthday, Seniors!
June Senior Birthdays:
Happy Birthday to: John Dutcher, Janet Freeman, Nicky Harkalis, Ken Singer, Linda England/Kelling, Susan Pruitt, Valerie Pattegrin, Kathy Siddall, Nancy Arp, Lori Stott.
Happy Birthday to these folks! It’s always nice to get a friendly hello!
If you wish to be on our Birthday List, please write us! LyonsRecorder.Editor@gmail.com
NEWSLETTER — to be assured that you get a copy of the monthly, award-winning, SENIOR NEWS — add your name to the Loving Lyons Seniors Group email list. This newsletter/article has been produced for approximately 20 years by Kathleen Spring, and has been published in full in the Lyons Recorder since November 2020. Email: LovingLyonsSeniorGroup@gmail.com
TO SEE PREVIOUS SENIOR NEWS articles, click HERE
