October SENIOR NEWS: Lyons, bears and one long walkway
Dear Seniors,
It seems to be all the buzz — when, where and who do you tip nowadays? It seems like you can’t order anything, even a carry-out Coke, without a tip jar, or the question showing up on your credit card authorization.
I sat with a few seniors, and a couple said that they use to work in the fast-food industry, and the rule was to always be busy. And don’t expect a tip. If you were going to clear off a table, also take that napkin on the floor, and the coffee cup, …whatever you could carry to fill your arms. Now you are asked to tip someone who does not clear your table, but stays at the cash register, and leaves it to you to dispose of your tray, and plates.
I saw in an “Ask the etiquette expert” type of column that it is just polite to tip “something” (eg. $1.00) I have seen boxes that offer “20% / 15% / 10% or custom amount”. So chose custom amount if you want to “just be nice.”
Not only is this an ongoing problem “yet to be solved,” but I read about a trend that throws out an old habit… from many years ago… tip or not to tip the owner of an establishment who serves you. For example: Do I tip my hairdresser if she is the owner? Not tipping the owner of the salon is an outdated tradition that is no longer practiced in modern tipping etiquette. This was done because owners had higher skill levels and higher rates.
Good luck! We’ll see where this all lands in the next year or so.
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
SENIOR BUS TRIP TO WILD ANIMAL SANCTUARY
The weather was perfect… blue sky and sunny, and no more 90+ degree summer heat. A bus full of Lyons seniors got to view numerous rescued lions and bears from a tall walkway. At first, it was slow going… few animals in sight. Then two very distant bears “play fighting” standing on their hind legs. Then a lion peeking out of his bunker and going for a stroll along the perimeter line. But suddenly the animals started coming out (easily visible from the walkway) as noon time happened.
The first bears to be seen clearly were Syrian Brown Bears. The chubby one was called Chumly and the active one was Diesel. While the staff do not treat the animals as cuddily pets, they do name them. The pool in the photo is the only one like it; most were surrounded by dirt. There is ditch water available since some of the land use to be farm land.
There was a breeze, and seniors were warned to tie on their hats, strap on binoculars, and be careful not to drop your camera, as it will probably never be retrieved. Along the walkway were audio boxes that gave the story of where each animal/ or group of animals was rescued from. (sooo sad) And, a couple of volunteers along the way gave some great information. Most seniors made it to the end of the walkway, but there was no shame in turning around mid-way, after being satisfied with many wild animal sightings.
Then it was back to the main building where seniors remarked with surprise at the low cost of lunch and high quality of “flavor.” Some had been to the sanctuary a few times, mainly through senior bus trips, and a few had never been. It had been years since I went, and it was MUCH bigger, both in acreage and in the length of the overhead walkway, and the additional buildings, both for animals and humans. ~ Thanks to the Town of Lyons Recreation Department, and coordinator Lisa Ramsey, for a wonderful day out of town. (tickets were discounted, the bus ride was free, and some seniors got ‘scholarships’ to help with the ticket cost thanks to LCF).
Here is some background on the facility: 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, explore a “mile into the wild” on the world’s longest elevated walkway. This walkway is actually 1.5 miles one way, and takes visitors over the various predator’s habitats. At the end of the 1.5 miles is a learning center, and tiger house. Motorized scooters were available for only $5.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
FLOOD of 2013 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: The Flood Committee provided numerous activities during September for people to commemorate the disaster that took place in Lyons 10 years ago. == Here is an INDEX of all 26 articles.
The Lyons Recorder, Lyons local weekly newspaper, put together 26 articles covering everything from day 1 to today. It had LaVern Johnson’s “About town” written 3 days after the flood, and personal flood stories by some locals who spent 5 to 7 years outside of Lyons until they could back to living in Lyons. And, one article had three people talking about personal treasures found in the mud, after the flood. There is a new site developed in town where you can go sit and meditate, relax, pray, meet friends, etc. It is about six huge boulders, formed in a circle, that you can sit on. It’s called Confluence Circle. It is located across the street from the Rocky Mt. Botanic Gardens, near Old St. Vrain/Highway 7. Contact the town if you can’t find it.
LEAF needs non-perishable foods. 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.
ACTIVITIES – We told you last month that the BOULDER 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. We are happy to announce this month that the Town has obtained tickets to the show, and it will take place January 11th. – See below under “Town of Lyons Activities” on how to get your discounted ticket and free bus ride!
GENEALOGY: Are you interested in getting involved in researching your family’s history? The Colorado Genealogical Society offers “Genealogy 101” every month (started September 9th). You can egister for this free Zoom class t www.cogensoc.us.
BORED PETS: Are you slowing down and not paying as much attention to your pet? Maybe not as many walks? Or, playing ball? When our pets are bored, they may display unwanted behaviors such as scratching, chewing, digging, barking, or bad bathroom habits. You can help by providing them with new toys, setting aside specific times to play with them, invite friendly grandkids or neighbors to play with them, create a play space in your house, set aside specific times for you to both do a little physical exercise and have fun!
October 30 to November 3, 2023 –Housing lottery opening with Boulder Housing Partners. In order to qualify with BHP applicants must meet eligibility criteria for being a Boulder County resident: https://boulderhousing.org/.
STAY CONNECTED: The two years of COVID caused most seniors to hibernate. I hope you have now come out of your shell and are back to your normal routines. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the health consequences of isolation includes a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults. Wow! That doesn’t sound good! Think about it. Just by spending more time with family and friends, we increase our chances for good health by about 30%… easy, peasy!
==LOCAL ART NEWS===
(1.) 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.. ======= (2.) The “solo” art show at the library will have two artists this time: local seniors Carol Groves and Ruth Wilson. Their serene landscape paintings will delight you! You can see both exhibits during normal business hours over the next three months, but the OPENING NIGHT is always great fun… a time to socialize with friends and artists, and enjoy YaYa Farms donuts and Celtic harp music! Wednesday October 18th, 5:30 p.m. at the library.
==MEDICAL / WELLNESS NEWS==
HOSPICE CARE MYTHS: Hospice is intended to provide comfort and support not just to patients at the end of heir life, but also to those loved ones around them. 50PLUS Marketplace newspaper had a big article on all the myths that surround this service. I will give you the list, which hopefully will help calm your mind (and you can look up the newspaper for the full article). == Hospice means giving up (no. you have a greater quality of life at the end) // Hospice is only appropriate for the last few days of life (no, you can last for months) / You must give up all your mediations (no, it will help make recommendations) / Hospice is a place (no. it’s wherever a patient calls home) // Hospice is only for patients with specific diseases (no. anyone with a life-limiting chronic disease can apply) // Hospice ends when the patient dies (no. it provides support beyond to love ones) // Hospice work is draining (no. when done right can be extremely rewarding. Visit Interim Health Care Web Site). Good luck!
===SALUD CLINIC, Longmont PHARMACY: had a grand opening ceremony last week, the addition of a drive-thru to its pharmacy. The drive-thru was made possible through the Boulder County 0.05% Worthy Cause tax, which dedicates a portion of sales tax revenue for capital improvements to local human services nonprofits. PLUS the pharmacy itself doubled in size. It has 10 pharmacy staff, and lines can be very long. ===== Salud focuses on low-income, medically underserved populations as well as the migrant and seasonal farmworker population. Salud accepts Medicaid, Medicare, CHP+, and most private insurance plans. It offers a sliding fee scale based on family size and income. ==== Our Lyons doctor transferred to Salud, when the Lyons clinic closed. There is also a branch in Estes Park.
===West Nile Disease is still around despite the cooler weather. — One third of all cases nationwide are in Colorado – CO has 460, and the next highest is California with 156. We are #1 in the nation. Only 20% show symptoms. There is no treatment for it. It can last for months. Watch for: chronic fatigue / joint pain / rashes / migraines.
===LEAF “ADDICTION AID GROUP” – Thursdays this fall at 6:30 p.m. at the Lyons Community Church “hall.” (this is not related to the church, or any Christian group). For anyone with current or past alcohol/ drug addiction who wants to get or stay sober. Led by specialist counselor. Attend any or all. —- Last Thursday the group talked about coping with stress and anxiety. More info can be found at leaflyons.org/mental-wellness-addiction-recovery
===October: new “booster shot” for COVID. Seniors are urged to get it. COVID is back and on the rise. The statistics 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.===SIDE EFFECTS are usually mild, with most having a sore arm. Remember to drink lots of water the first day or two, and “take the day” off the next day. — Per CDC: Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever afterward can help manage any discomfort. Just know it’s not advised to take these medicines ahead of time to try to prevent potential side effects. Applying a clean, cool, wet washcloth to the injection site can help to relieve pain or swelling on the arm where you got the shot, the CDC said.
===IN LYONS: FREE flu and COVID shots. We have contacted multiple officials and have not been able to get any more details. — Closer to the date, check with the Boulder County representatives, or call town hall. October 18th. *UPDATE* Oct. 8th — we exchanged emails and rec’d fliers which contradicted previous emails. But it appears that the final word is: flu shots are free to all, but COVID shots are only for uninsured or non-insured. Time is 11a.m. to 3p.m. at the Lyons Senior Center on Oct 19th (not 18th). No registration is needed. To confirm details or ask questions, contact: Teresa DeAnni, Healthy Aging Programs Manager, 303-441-4995, tdeanni@bouldercounty.org.
===Flu is predicted to peak early this year, in November.
===TIME to get vaccinated! There are three now available: COVID booster / RSV / and flu…(plus pneumonia). They say you can get two at a time, but I don’t want to “challenge” my body’s immune system too much, and I do them separately. You can trust your doctor to do the right thing, but sometimes we just go to the pharmacy and make our own “educated decision”! —- The vaccines are available at medical facilities, and some grocery pharmacies, and the drug stores are lagging a bit in getting their share. Be sure to set up an appointment online.
===How many pneumonia shots do seniors need?—– If you get pneumococcal vaccines for the first time at 65 or older, you will need two shots, one year apart. If you’ve had only one pneumococcal vaccine in your lifetime, you may now need an additional shot. Your doctor should be able to check your records to see what you have taken.
===See this link if you need more details on ALL vaccines for seniors: National Institute of Health
===For those eligible for Medicare, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15- Dec. 7 each year. Coverage selections made during the fall will take effect on Jan. 1, 2024. (See below under Boulder County Aging for resource connection).
===Wednesday, October 11th, 1-2 p.m. “Keeping your Bones Healthy” INFO HERE Boulder County Aging Dietitian discussion; on Zoom.
===October 23, Blood Drive at Lyons Library. Sign up for your spot: HERE – VITALANT/
Past Month's Lyons Recorder ARTICLES of interest to Seniors, September 5 to October 5
FLOOD of 2013 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: Events and exhibits and stories. INDEX. See LYONS RECORDER this month for FLOOD EDITIONS: (1) Sept. 7 edition “Flood Disaster” – 10 articles (2.) Sept. 14 edition “Flood Recovery” (3.) Personal Stories” – 10 articles.
SCHOOL NEWS – for general public, fundraiser, teacher grants, scores, winning sports, etc.
Longmont Museum $8.1 million expansion.
Lyons Businesses opening soon, new one open now, changes. Main Street.
Boulder County Commission Report.
NIST expands, opens new facilities in Boulder (chips)
Univ. of Colorado Boulder – history of Old Main
Town Board of Trustees, recap of two months.
TOWN of Lyons SENIOR ACTIVITES
==NOVEMBER 7th SENIOR BUS TRIP — reservations are closed on this, but you can get on a Waiting List. —David Sedaris at Macky Auditorium: He is the wildly popular author of such books as “Me Talk Pretty One Day” This legendary American humorist is famous for his live shows. The show will feature live readings from his latest book “Happy-Go-Lucky,” audience questions and answers. Discounted tix at $45. Free bus ride.
==Senior Bus Trip to “Fiddler on the Roof” at Boulder Dinner Theatre. – January 11, 2024. Join us for what’s sure to be a bittersweet evening at the penultimate performance of “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Boulder Dinner Theatre. Having put on many plays and musicals since 1977, the Boulder Dinner Theatre will be shutting it’s doors forever at the end of it’s 45th season, and is saying goodbye with a crowd favorite. Set in the early 1900’s, the musical “Fiddler on the Roof” tells the story of a local milkman in a Russian Jewish village who tries to keep his Jewish traditions alive while his five daughters have other ideas when it comes to love. Dinner is served by the actors at the theatre before the start of the show and usually features food choices reflective of the musical being presented. Our special group rate includes bottomless coffee, tea, and soda, and our gratuity is already included. Appetizers, desserts, and alcoholic beverages are extra. Reserve your spot today by dropping off payment at town hall.
Ages: 55 and up…..Date/time: Thursday, January 11, 2024, 5:15 – 10 p.m.
Location: bus leaves from Walt Self, 335 Railroad Ave
Fee: $70; may have partial scholarships available
FOR MORE INFORMATION or rsvp, CONTACT LISA RAMSEY: lramsey@townoflyons com or 303-823-6622 x30
The September picnic in LaVJohnson Park was a big hit! A few dozen Lyons seniors came out on the perfect fall day to enjoy the delicious buffet and company. Thank You Town of Lyons!
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.
LYONS SENIOR EXERCISE – 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., free. For Lyons area seniors 55+ === Johnson Park – meet by the ice rink circle. It may move indoors to the Senior Center later in October when the weather gets colder. 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
The Town also offers free drop in basketball, soccer and pickleball. See their PAGE for details.
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 Wednesday, October 11th, 1-2 p.m. “Keeping your Bones Healthy” INFO HERE Boulder County Aging Dietitian discussion; on Zoom.
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====
Indigenous Peoples’ Day – activities in Boulder. October 9th.
=====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.=====
Hikes for Seniors – Stuck in a Rut — Friday, 20 October 2023, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Mud Lake —Natural History – Seniors ==== Join us for an easy-pace hike, that’s just over a mile long, as we explore the high country and learn about the ritualistic behaviors behind ‘the rut’. Discover how elk, deer, and moose come together to select mates and prepare for the mating season.
Junior and Senior Fishing Derby, Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat==Create a fishing dream team! Boulder County Parks and Open Space is hosting a Junior and Senior Fishing Derby. This special event is for pairs of one senior and one junior participant fishing together as a team. • There will be prizes given to the senior and junior pair who catch the heaviest trout, have the largest age difference, and are first to catch the limit. • Seniors must be age 65 or older and juniors must be age 15 or younger. • Event takes place rain or shine! • The pond is stocked with rainbow trout. • Artificial and live bait are both permitted at Wally Toevs Pond. • Seniors must have a valid Colorado fishing license. For more information contact Michelle Marotti at 303-678-6219 or mmarotti@bouldercounty.gov.
Full Moon Hike: Spooky Tales on the Trail –Saturday, 28 October 2023 , 6:00 PM – 08:00 PM— Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. Natural History – All Ages Welcome— Halloween is just around the corner! Join us for a storytelling adventure full of myths and legends about the critters that rule the night. What’s true and what’s not? Join our volunteer naturalists for a 2.5 mile in and out hike as we try to figure out the mystery behind the stories we hear.
====Halloween in Lyons=========
October 21, 5 to 10:30 p.m. – LEAF’s annual RAVE to the GRAVE, live music, costumes, fundraiser. (at LaV Johnson Park)
October 28, Spooktacular, Halloween Parade; plus, chili cook off at MainStage following the parade, fund raiser for The Lyons Garden Club.
===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– 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.
=========== The Lyons Recorder has BOTH a weekly “Things to Do” and a MONTHLY full calendar page of events covering the year.==========
Happy Birthday, Seniors!
October Senior Birthdays:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO: Josie Rios, Kathleen Spring, Betsy Monteih, Marcia Hall, Jacque Watson, Nancy Reckling, Jay Stott, Jonelle Tucker.
Don’t forget to wish a Happy Birthday to these folks! It’s always nice to get a friendly hello!
The Senior “Monthly Birthday Party” will take place in the Senior Center at 12:30p.m. You can order lunch, which will be served at 12 noon, and cost $3 for seniors: (303) 441-1415 by Tuesday, 1p.m.
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. Reports were initially done weekly under the title “SPOT on Seniors,” when the Golden Gang (senior club) was active. Since then it was done monthly in the Lyons Recorder. Email: LovingLyonsSeniorGroup@gmail.com
TO SEE PREVIOUS SENIOR NEWS articles, click HERE
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