Where you will (and won’t) find me this summer
May 24, 2021 11:54AM ● By Cloie Sandlin
Having a beer with my mom and husband before a Metallica concert in Denver, 2017
Family, friends and even close acquaintances know I’m a music buff. Both collectively and individually, my husband and I have seen more bands live than anyone else I know. Pre-COVID, it wasn’t uncommon for us to pack a night bag and head over the mountains for a concert only to be back in time for work the next day.
The runner-up is my mother—a wild rocker in her youth. She’s seen iconic musicians in their prime, such as Elvis, Tom Petty, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Rolling Stones with ZZ Top, Van Halen (with David Lee Roth AND Sammy Hagar), Aerosmith and lots of acts at Willie Nelson’s Farm Aid.
Her birthday is in January, so last year, we surprised her with tickets to see Motley Crue, Def Leppard, Poison and Joan Jett in Denver. Of course, she was disappointed when COVID hit, causing bands to cancel their tours in 2020. Luckily, we didn’t have to give up our good seats for the bands’ rescheduled date in 2021.
With COVID restrictions lifting these last few weeks, the possibility of seeing live music again seemed hopeful.
Then, I got the email: “Your event has been rescheduled for 2022.”
A post on one of the band’s Facebook page confirmed it was so they could perform at every stop on the tour—something they’re unable to do because of lingering virus concerns, no doubt.
It’s perfectly understandable, but it’s too bad that fans have to wait another year to see these bands perform. My mom wasn’t happy, but there’s always next year.
Guide to Summer Festivals
Fortunately, in Western Colorado, entertainers and festival promoters are ready to get back in the swing of things. We’re excited to see most of our favorite festivals returning this summer, and we’re looking forward to celebrating!
In addition to helpful reminders and suggestions for returning to music festivals, we’ve reached out to promoters and compiled a guide to summer festivals scheduled to return this year. Check it out!
Protect yourself with Vitamin D
I was a fair-skinned, freckle-covered red-head as a kid. Unfortunately, many of these features still apply, meaning I know the extent of the sun’s damage all too well. When adventuring this summer, be mindful of your sun exposure, bring a hat and sunblock, and take your daily Vitamin D supplement. Did you know Vitamin D can lower your risk of getting COVID as well? Read more.
Don’t miss BeaconFest
You can see live music without worrying about the sun at BeaconFest, our annual celebration of age, coming back to Grand Junction and Montrose this fall! Mark your calendars for BeaconFest at Grand Junction Convention Center on September 9 and at the Montrose Pavilion on October 14. Admission is free!
Tell Dad Happy Father’s Day!
Father’s Day is June 20. Give Dad a hug, buy him a beer and take him to a festival—or go panning for gold (more about that in this month’s cover story).
Letters from our readers
“I so enjoy getting the BEACON, and especially look forward to Laughing Matters. Sometimes I find myself laughing out loud! I make copies of the jokes and forward them to family and friends to brighten their day!”
- Patricia F., Carbondale
“I share the BEACON with my parents, who live in Minnesota. They like the stories, encouragement, and the jokes. My parents no longer have access to the local newspaper (it went to online only), so they are happy to have something to read that they can hold onto. Thanks for how you help older adults have a better quality of life.”
- Connie R., All Points Transit, Montrose
“Thanks for currently listing Wheels West Car Club on your list of clubs. Our membership has grown significantly since last year, probably thanks to your help.”
- Patrick Heinan
“Thank you for keeping seniors so well informed and making us feel we are still important. ”
- Shirley G.
RE: “The hidden benefits of hiking poles” (May)
“I enjoyed your article about hiking/trekking poles because it was good, true information. Check out Nordic walking poles. When not on the trail, they are great exercise on an in-town walk. They’re very popular in Europe, and I’ve always wondered why Coloradans don’t use them. One does need to learn to use them correctly.”
- Sharon R.
“Hiking poles and all the benefits was, as usual by Melanie, well-written, practical information. Thank you for all the articles you write.”
- Beth W.
RE: “Am I too old for a puppy?” (May)
“Personally, I am anti-puppy. But I believe that older people are probably superior candidates for raising a puppy. Puppies take devotion and persistent training. If someone needs a companion and a past-time, a puppy may be the perfect solution.”
- Adam C., Grand Junction
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