I’ve been keeping tabs on the nation’s COVID vaccine roll out and Colorado’s phased distribution approach since the beginning of the year. In many of the articles I’ve read, a recurring theme seems to be people’s frustration over how difficult it is just to schedule an appointment to get the vaccine—citing glitchy government websites, jammed phone lines and the circulation of outdated information. 

I’m not yet eligible for the vaccine, so I figure that gives the state and county health departments additional time to work out the kinks. However, after researching information for this month’s cover story, I got my first taste of how CONFUSING this process can be for those who are eligible. Poorly designed websites contain information that’s hard to decipher. Providers all seem to have their own processes, and only some actually have the vaccines on hand. 

Fortunately, some agencies are combining efforts with the county’s health department to make registering for the vaccine easier. All Points Transit is even offering free rides to prescheduled vaccine appointments for Montrose and Delta residents!

How much does the vaccine cost?

It’s free! Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance are required to cover the cost of the COVID-19 vaccines. In addition, uninsured Coloradans will also have access to free vaccines. What are you waiting for? See March's cover story for a list of nearby locations. 

 NEW! Pet Column

I don’t have human children, but when our readers share stories and send photos of their furry children, I can totally relate! BEACON Senior News has partnered with Roice-Hurst Humane Society (RHHS) to bring you a monthly column that’s all about pets. Learn tips about caring for your pet’s overall wellbeing like tackling behavior issues, preventing common health problems, and what to know about fostering a pet. This month, RHHS CEO Anna Stout writes about the importance of planning for your pets and ensuring their future needs are cared for in your legacy giving. 

Write a Will Month

Tax season is here, which is a good reminder to start thinking about your will and last wishes. Not sure where to start? Read Arlyn Macdonald’s story, “Exit papers,” then register for one of the free virtual seminars offered by Mesa County Libraries and Mesa County Fundraisers Network. 

Alive & Digging turns 50!

Last month, our highly acclaimed gardening column turned 50—articles old, that is! Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to Paige Slaughter for sharing her gardening insight and advice with our readers. Her passion for writing and gardening make for one spectacular column that inspires even the most black-thumbed growers! Read column #51 of Alive & Digging. 

Letters from our readers

“I was looking at my books in December and thought, ‘I need to cancel that ad.’ Then I got two calls in January and then a few more in February and I thought, ‘There is no way I can cancel the ad—it is working too well.’ So just keep it going. It would be silly to stop it now.”

- Jeanette Quist, JQ Foot Care (Classifieds advertiser)

“Just a quick note to say thanks for dropping off The BEACON Guide. It’s just so full of useful information, which is fantastic!”

- Maggie Sanders, Mesa County RSVP

RE: “Editor’s Column: Strive for love in its highest form” (February)

“Thank you, Cloie. That was a beautifully written article on the Greek words for love. It inspired people to apply love more deeply to the world of people and situations we are living in. It also gave us a wonderful insight into the person you are.” 

- Marilynn H., Montrose

RE: Alive & Digging (February)

“Grow the food you like to eat, then eat it, or plant extra and donate it. I think that’s a great idea. Happy seed shopping!”

- Cynthia S.

RE: January Question of the Month (responses from Facebook)

"Describe a time when you were starstruck by a celebrity"

“I met Joe Cocker in Crawford on the street outside of his Mad Dog Cafe. I was in awe and very nervous. I told him what a big fan I was and I asked if he was going to do a song for us. He said, ‘No, I don’t have my band with me.’ Then he said we should talk to his wife about a tour of his house—The Mad Dog Ranch. So, we did.”

- Susan Elenz

“In the ’80s I met former President Jimmy Carter on the street in Aspen. That very nice, sincere man made a point of speaking to me and shaking my hand! I also met Sonny Bono on a different occasion when he and I were both concerned about a dog wandering loose on the street in Aspen. Also a really sweet guy.”

- Karen Simpson-Storey