September SENIOR NEWS: remembering the Great Flood of 2013
Dear Seniors,
Many people have lost the skill and habit of storytelling, just like they no longer print photographs, but pass around a cell phone. But there is one place that you will find both, and that is the Lyons Redstone Museum.
Thank goodness for that, because we have a detailed, accurate recording of what took place during and after the Great Flood of 2013 (9/11/13) in Lyons. I have been spending 100s of hours going through my own archive at home. People who know me, know that I take photos at all events… and I do love nature (and vacation) photos! And I save correspondence.
The first two editions of the Lyons Recorder in September will have almost 25 articles which recall the events of the flood, and the recovery efforts, afterwards. If this situation is causing you stress, trauma, depression, sadness, and more,… Lyons Emergency & Assistance Fund (LEAF) has two therapists who will be conducting “group wellness sessions” to give you a place to speak your emotions, as well as give you tips on how to regain your wellness. It’s every Tuesday at 7p.m. at the Community Church hall. Free. Take care of yourself during this stressful week
Kathleen Spring ……… Loving Lyons Senior Group
PS Please note, some of this Newsletter is a repeat, but almost every section DOES HAVE FRESH NEWS!
Table of Contents
NEWS YOU CAN USE
FLOOD of 2013 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: Events and exhibits all weekend September 9, 10, 11. See our ARTICLE for details, and locations. ===
FLOOD PTSD? if you are experiencing flash backs to the days of the flood and need comfort and tools to deal with it, Lyons Emergency & Assistance Fd (LEAF) has free weekly sessions to help you manage that: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Lyons Community Church hall.– MESSAGE: It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect with your friends and neighbors as we all consider the upcoming 10th anniversary of the 500 year flood. Our Mental Health Therapists, Cherie Maureaux and Megan Kram, have crafted this helpful and healing 4-week opportunity just for our community. Attend as many of the sessions as are able. Anyone age 15 or older is welcome. And of course, there is no cost to come. Questions? Send confidential email to mentalwellness@leaflyons.org.
SEPTEMBER IS FALLS PREVENTION MONTH: The first step in falls prevention will be coming from you — These tips are for seniors of ALL ABILITIES – Don’t think you are OK and don’t need to think about this — Set aside an hour.. say, on Sunday, when things are quiet, and do a thorough walk-thru of your house – check for these things: ==LIVING ROOM== Remove any clutter from the floor that could trip you. Keep power or phone cords out of the way by running them alongside walls (not under rugs). Arrange furniture so that it’s easier to walk around without bumping into sofas or coffee tables. Have you been tripping over a small rug? Tape it down or remove it. ==Around the stairs==Make sure there is good lighting at the top and bottom of stairs. Remove that clutter that may have accumulated on the steps that you “plan to take upstairs when my hands are empty.” Replace or upgrade any bad or dim bulbs. Install handrails to steady yourself.
ACTIVITIES – The Town of Lyons is offering TWO Activities in September. One is a bus trip to the Animal wildlife sanctuary in Keensberg, and the other is a free picnic in the park. See below for details and to SIGN UP!
LEAF Food Pantry needs non-perishable foods. Including cat and dog food, especially in cans. Go to their Food Pantry (in the Lyons Community Church) on Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to donate. No expired food please.
BOULDER DINNER THEATER ended its residency back in May; lost its lease to new owners. However, they were given a reprieve to perform one last play: “Fiddler on the Roof” from September 9th, 2023 to January 13th, 2024.
GRANDPARENTS – the Lyons Elementary PTO conducts “Playground Get-togethers” every Wednesday for kids and families to meet and get to know one another. It is a different age group each week. Check with the school for info.
The BUSTANG is back for the Bronco’s games, starting this Sunday, 9/10/23. Take a bus and skip the parking hassle, and “for clean air.” Round trip $22.50 for SENIORS. A/c comfort. MORE DETAILS
OBIT – Goodbye to Bob Barker. He was the TV game show host of “The Price is Right” who spent 35 years of his life giving away wonderful prizes, and advocating for animals (neuter them, please!). 8/26/23. He died from complications from Alzheimer’s disease. He was 99 years old.
OBIT – occasionally our past obits catch the eye of new people, and I send on the comments to the family. I thought this one might be of interest to a wider audience, so I am posting it here. – Walt Kinderman: comments by Richard Perrin: I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Kinderman’s passing. He had a wacky sense of humor. He could write some amazing stories in the Lyons Recorder. I was a rookie Police Officer in Lyons back in the 80′ s and he would be the only person awake when I was doing door checks. He’d be at the office getting the newspaper ready to print. So many folks that I knew in town have passed away. I wish I could have told Mr. Kinderman that I actually thought he was a good guy. Sad news for sure.
EUROPEAN TRAVEL – new forms: Don’t listen to rumors! No, you will not need a VISA to travel to most of Europe in 2024. The facts are that you will need to fill out a ETIAS form, which is much more simple. It will be an online application and cost about $8. It is meant to help bolster security. Channel 9 News has more details, if you “need to know”: FULL ARTICLE
Remembering 9/11 ==== This coming Monday, we recognize the somber anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001. There are a number of local commemorations, including 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs in Denver, Estes Park, and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Denver is also hosting a panel discussion about threats to US security with former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Admiral James Stavridis, and CNN National Security Analyst Peter Bergen—part of the Colorado Remembers 9/11 Event at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in Denver
ACTIVITIES – We have a list of events and activities sponsored by the Town of Lyons and Boulder County Aging –but—please look at the bottom of this newsletter for a list of non “town or county” related activities that we think are delightful and/or unique!!
==DO GOOD==
Remember our fellow US citizens in Hawaii, California, and Florida who have been ravaged by storms. Each one has local and national nonprofits helping them. Red Cross is always a wise choice; and you can mark where you want the fund to go. — Don’t just nod your head, but use your head and go there now! Thank you.
==LOCAL ART NEWS===
CALLING LOCAL ARTISTS: The LAHC’s fourth quarter Town Hall Art Show is themed, “What all is out / up / over there?” Area artists of all ages and abilities are encouraged to deliver up to five pieces of ready-to-wall-hang art to the Shirley F. Johnson Council Chamber at Town Hall between 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday October 13th. This themed work will be viewable through January 12th — when all work must be picked up between 5 and 7 p.m.. === the “solo” art show at the library will have two artists this time: Carol Groves and Ruth Wilson. More info to come.
Lyons Arts and Humanities Commission (LAHC) NEWS: (1.) Update on the Lavern Johnson Commemorative Sculpture Project… scale-up progress being made by local sculptor, Christine Knapp! Cast objects to add to this realistic interpretation include a pair of LaVern’s glasses, her chain belt, her shoes, & a microphone! (NOTE: Christine is offering a 3 day intensive class; see her for more details) – (2.) Thanks The Lyons Farmette for the fabulous Blackbelly Farm Dinner that benefited regional arts via Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission & Boulder County Arts Alliance! Huge appreciation! This fundraiser sells out pronto every year.(3.) Kevin Shaffer’s work, “Transitional Piece,” is now installed on Lyons’ Town Triangle. Melinda Wunder, the heARTS of LYONS / LAHC connector, & the Town of Lyons team assisted with this! Stop & take a close-up look; the welding work is masterful
==BUS TIPS==
The Senior Special Discount Card (SDC) provides a 50 percent fare discount for people ages 65+ on all regular bus and train service. The senior discount is not offered on Access-a-Ride service. Seniors must present a photo ID showing passenger’s age, Medicare card, or RTD-issued Special Discount Card. Individuals with disabilities must present a Medicare card or RTD-issued Special Discount Card as proof of eligibility for the discounted fare when boarding a bus or train. See eligibility requirements below.
SENIORS: 3 hour pass is $1.50 local and $2.60 regional (dg, Denver) and Airport is $5.25. You can also buy a 3 hour pass, which is $3.00 local and $5.25 regional. (New lower bus fares went into effect 9/3/23)
Free bus for Personal Attendants, Aides, and Trainers== accompanying passengers who have a disability are permitted to ride for free.
For more information on Discount fares (eg, Medicare, Veterans, etc) and proof accepted, go to: DISCOUNT FARE SCHEDULE
LYONS FLYER: The “mid-day ride” is now over. It was for the summer only. But you can still catch a FREE bus to Boulder in the morning and late afternoon. The bus stop is located by the old Valley Bank bldg.. on Railroad Avenue. (across from Western Stars Gallery).
==MEDICAL NEWS==
October: new “booster shot” for COVID. Seniors are urged to get it. COVID is back and on the rise. It may not be as bad as it was during the pandemic; but you will not be happy with being home bound for a month, with aches, maybe loss of taste, and flu-like symptoms. Flu is predicted to peak early this year, in November.
September 15, Wednesday: 1pm – 2pm “Cancer: Preventable, Not Inevitable” // See Boulder County Aging section below for details on the free discussion; on Zoom.
West Nile disease from mosquitos: Colorado has the most cases of any state. Spray DEET on when walking / gardening in nature! There is no treatment available.
Past Month's Lyons Recorder ARTICLES of interest to Seniors, August 10 to Sept.10
LEARN ABOUT THISTLES, Blooming Now! (noxious weeds) == CLICK HERE
PHOTO SPREAD “Sights and Sounds” around Lyons, July-August 2023 === CLICK HERE
FLOOD of 2013 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: Events and exhibits all weekend September 9, 10, 11. See our ARTICLE for details, and locations.
Lyons LCF & LEAF fundraiser “Hootenanny” wrap up, with photos
In August the Lyons Recorder had three “construction update” articles, including the Evans Street Affordable Housing. Type “construction” in the search box to see them all. This one ARTICLE also had some updates about the Town Board of Trustee decisions.
Other non-Lyons articles were about (1) Japanese settlement in Longmont and building a Pagoda (2) Colorado having the most diverse legislature in the US (3) Colorado e-bike rebate program.
See LYONS RECORDER this month for FLOOD EDITIONS: (1) Sept. 7 edition “Flood Disaster” – 10 articles (2.) Sept. 14 edition “Flood Recovery” – 10 articles.
TOWN of Lyons SENIOR ACTIVITES
*NOTE* Lisa Ramsey needs your “rsvp” for the picnic as soon as possible in order to have enough food ordered; and as of 9/6 there are only 6 seats left on the “Wildlife” bus trip.
SENIORS’ FALL FROLIC PICNIC
Join us for our 2nd annual Fall Frolic Picnic at LaVern Johnson Park. We’ll gather to welcome the coming of fall with some great food and conversation. We’ll get out the bean bags and play some cornhole. And of course we’ll celebrate the September birthdays while we’re at it. This event is funded by a grant from the Lyons Community Foundation. Parking is free during this event. Please RSVP to Lisa so we know how much food to get.
Ages: 55 and up == Fee: Free (free parking; see Lisa)
Date: Wednesday, September 13, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Location: Quarry Shelter at LaVern Johnson Park, 600 Park Dr
Fee: FREE
RSVP to LISA RAMSEY: lramsey@townoflyons.com or 303-823-6622 x30
SENIOR BUS TRIP TO THE WILD ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, CO is home to more than 550 animals including African lions, tigers, grizzly and black bears, wolves, coyotes and more. Offering an unique viewing advantage, join us as we explore a “mile into the wild” on the world’s longest elevated walkway.
LUNCH: At the end of the 1.5 miles is a learning center, tiger house, and the Lion’s Den Cafe and Ice Cream Shop where we’ll be having lunch before walking back to the starting point.
WALKING: This walkway is actually 1.5 miles one way, and takes visitors over the various predator’s habitats. Motorized and regular wheelchairs are available for a $5 rental fee and can be used both ways or just one way along the walkway.
PRE-ORDER: The Sanctuary would like us to pre-order lunches so they are sure to have what we want on hand. Please view the menu here and submit your order with your ticket payment. Meals will be paid for separately at the Lion’s Den Cafe. You are also welcome to pack a lunch if you prefer. ‘
PAYMENT: Submit a check (made out to Town of Lyons) or cash to town hall to reserve your spot today! This trip is partially funded by a grant from Lyons Community Foundation.
Ages: 55 and up
Date: Tuesday, September 19, 8:30 am – 1 pm
Location: bus leaves from Walt Self, 335 Railroad Ave
Fee: $35 for ages 55 – 69 and $20 for ages 70 and up; bring money for lunch
FOR MORE INFORMATION or rsvp, CONTACT LISA RAMSEY: lramsey@townoflyons com or 303-823-6622 x30 == www.WildAnimalSanctuary.org == Your reservation is not guaranteed until you have dropped off your check.
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 . 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. This is sponsored by the Town of Lyons. === in September, this will take place in Johnson Park, at the Quarry Shelter. Free picnic lunch, and games. Note the earlier time: 11:30 a.m.
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 – meet by the ice rink circle. 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
Note this is repeated every month
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.
== The Aging Advisory Council (AAC) == meets the first Friday of every month from 9 a.m. to noon, except for July and November.== Members of the public are welcome to listen in on regular AAC meetings == Questions? Please contact Lindsay Neville at lneville@bouldercounty.org or 303-441-1583.
SERVICES PROVIDED & CLASSES:
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 month. Questions? Please email infohealthyaging@bouldercounty.org. == REGISTER September 15, Wednesday: 1pm – 2pm “Cancer: Preventable, Not Inevitable”
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.
====ACTIVITIES and EDUCATIONAL Programs====
September 9, Saturday – Artisan Market in Bohn Park (rescheduled from “rain out” earlier this year) Vendors, live music, bbq.
September 9, 10, 11 – Remembrance Ceremonies of the Great Flood of 2013. = Saturday officials speak / Sunday community event / Monday night-time candle vigil (residents only). Exhibits throughout town (museum, library, tourist office, and town hall— all of these places are normally closed on a Sunday, but open for exhibit viewing). A big agenda== See the Town web site. See our ARTICLE for DETAILS!! And locations.
September 23-24, 9 a.m., “Navajo Wool Processing” – Colorado History museum, Denver – Traditional Navajo == Join the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center for the Traditional Navajo Wool Processing Workshop, led by Diné weaver Salina Begay. Salina is a traditional Navajo rug weaver and community organizer. She learned the tradition of weaving through her mother that has been passed down through the generations. This two-day workshop will include demonstrations of shearing, processing, spinning, dyeing, and weaving, with hands-on opportunities for participants. www.HistoryColorado.org/events
September 29th Exhibition Closing: “Return of the Corn Mothers” == 5p.m. closing event == Join us at the closing event for Return of the Corn Mothers, an exhibition at the History Colorado Center. The closing ceremony will be honoring the Corn Mothers and their families. Enjoy a cocktail while viewing the Return of the Corn Mothers exhibition, share in the closing blessing, and honor the unsung women of the community. www.HistoryColorado.org/events
=====BOULDER CO OPEN SPACE WALKS & TALKS=====
Registration is handled through Discover Boulder County, Parks & Open Space’s volunteer and event registration system. If you’re new to the system, you’ll need to create an account. But it’s easy and we only use your contact information to communicate about volunteer opportunities and events you register for. We will never sell or give your information to a third party.=====
September 23, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – ART – Stop, See, Hear & Feel– Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat. Ages 12 and older.–Discover techniques developed by John Muir Laws to help you better observe nature and record it for yourself. Participants are encouraged to bring their own sketchbook and art supplies, however, supplies will be provided to those who need it. No art experience necessary! Registration required. Boulder Co Open Spaces September 24, 12-3p.m. Vintage Baseball Game & Autumn Heritage Day ==Walker Ranch Homestead. All ages welcome. No registration required.=== Drop by anytime between noon and 3 p.m. to enjoy an old-fashioned vintage baseball game in the picturesque and historic setting of the Walker Ranch Homestead. The Walker Ranchers, local recruits, will play a team from the Colorado Vintage Base Ball Association.—- Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Food will not be available on site, so please bring a picnic and drinking water for your household. Costumed volunteers will also share games and chores of the past for visitors to take part in. ———Walker Ranch Homestead, 7001 Flagstaff Mountain Road, approximately 7 miles west of Boulder. For more information, please call 303-776-8848 or email September 28, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Bo County Open Space Hikes for Seniors – Fall at the Gulch =Walker Ranch Meyers Gulch Trailhead. Ages 60 and older.===Join us for an easy to moderate, 2-mile hike with some elevation gain right above Boulder and learn about local wildlife. We will look for signs of wildlife along the trail and keep a look out for any sightings of friendly critters. Be prepared for uneven terrain and changing weather. Registration required. September 30, 9a.m. – Every Body Belongs on Bikes – Lagerman Agricultural Preserve (all ages welcome) == This is the first event in our NEW Every Body Belongs Series. The joy of riding bikes is for everyone! Join us and and All Bodies on Bikes Denver for an inclusive, “no drop” bike ride around Lagerman Reservoir and the Open Sky Loop. Before rolling out we will discuss pre-ride bike maintenance. After our ride we will have snacks, socializing, and community building. The ride will be on gravel trails and roadways, so bring a bike you are comfortable riding on mixed terrain. = Registration required. |
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October 5 – Kingston Trio homage – All three current members, Mike Marvin, Tim Gorelangton and Buddy Woodward have intrinsic links to and experience with the original group: Mike is the adopted son of founding member Nick Reynolds, who was also his musical mentor – Dairy Center, Boulder.
July 12 to Oct. 8th —quarterly Art Show by LAHC. Library features Kristine Birdi, plus town hall 12 residents’ “Funky & Whimsical” art; plus some Great Flood of 2013 art work. The show will be available to view for three months, during normal business hours at town hall. Just go to the front desk and ask to see the show, and they will check to make sure there isn’t a meeting going on, and then take you back to the room. Support your local arts. See the Lyons Recorder article for details on Birdi and her art process, and samples of her work.
===Poetry and BOOK CLUBS===
At Moxies: “Bread & Poetry”: This is a new monthly event for the whole community. Enjoy a short reading by a featured local author, followed by a lively interview and a guided writing activity. Each month is a different poet (aiming for Lyons poets).
Lyons LIBRARY BOOK CLUB. (1) at the library: “Busy Readers Book Club.” — cancelled for summer (register) ==== (2) monthly “Pints & Pages” — at A-Lodge Rock Garden: book discussion event for the whole community.
***See Lyons Recorder THINGS TO DO for more details on these, AND other activities in August and September.***
======Repeated Activities========
Drop In Pickleball–*NEW INFO for the FALL* — Sept to Dec. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. = Location: Bohn Park Multisport Court, 199 2nd Ave = Fee: FREE (Town of Lyons Recreation Dept) All ages welcome. Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays. Bring a racquet and a ball, if you have one.
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.
LIBRARY VIRTUAL AUTHOR TALKS: virtual author talk series website.
Happy Birthday, Seniors!
September Senior Birthdays:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO: Regina Vigil, Coco Gordon (artist), Pam Barnes, Joanne Farmer, Charlie Corson, Donna Lee (who passed away recently), Julie Van Domelen (past mayor), Marie Burton, Wanda Janik, Ken Cinnamon (pioneer family), Gwynne Owen (greenhouse), Al Pace (quarry historian), Donna Cole (Golden Gang), Beth Boone (pioneer family).
Don’t forget to wish a Happy Birthday to these folks! It’s always nice to get a friendly hello!
The September Senior “Monthly Birthday Party” will take place in LaVern Johnson Park at 11:30 a.m. on September 13th. Free lunch and games.
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
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