I get out and mingle with seniors in the community as much as I can, whether it be on the pickleball court (as you’ll see in this month’s cover story), the dog park or the curling rink. But sometimes my work keeps me at my desk more than I’d like.

We hear from dozens of readers every month. But some weeks—especially those when I’m tied to my desk—I begin to overthink. Doubt creeps in. I wonder: Are people reading our stories? Are we making a difference in the lives of local seniors? 

Then I see how many people showed up to last week’s Grand Junction BeaconFest and my concerns vanish. Not only because of the outpouring of seniors, but also the people and businesses that are so focused on loving and supporting them however they can. 

This year, I saw friends hugging and visiting after not seeing each other for months (I also see plenty of friends myself). I saw able-bodied people watching out for others with canes and accompanying those coasting through the aisles on scooters. I saw a lot of laughter, dancing and singing. And I saw people who are eager to learn, attend seminars or sign up with a local club just to try something new. 

Isn’t that what life—what getting older—is about? 

Last September, I worked on a story about a couple of local seniors who trained high school students in CPR. These men were working to pass legislation that required CPR training in all Colorado high schools after seeing first-hand how many lost lives could’ve been prevented if younger people only had the proper training. Recently, one of them sent me an update:  

“The governor signed our CPR bill into law this past Thursday. It has been a long learning process for me with a lot of help and support from many others. Cloie, you are the only media representative that stepped up when we were getting started in grand style. Your coverage of our PULSE program and our intent to introduce a bill was a real catalyst in getting the bill passed and signed. Thank you so much for being who you are and for truly caring about our seniors and young people.”

That was just icing on the cake! 

Read the article below:

I can save your life!

These seniors equip high schoolers with training that could save your life in a medical emergency. Read More » 

So are seniors reading the BEACON? You are right now. And are we making a difference in the lives of local seniors? I have no doubt about it.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading. If you have a story or idea to share that’s uplifting and helpful to local seniors, please give us a call or send me an email. 

Happy Mother’s Day

Despite the many I’ve been a part of here at the BEACON, I learned quite a bit about Mother’s Day from a few stories in this month’s issue. So to the moms in my life and all the other moms out there, we’re lucky to have you…especially since we wouldn’t be here otherwise! 

Mother's Day Trivia

How much do you know about this May tradition and about being a mom in general? Try your hand at this multiple-choice quiz. Read More » 

How to celebrate Mother’s Day when Mom has Alzheimer’s

On May 14, moms across the U.S. will be honored on their special day. But Mother’s Day often takes on a different feel for the families living with Alzheimer’s disease. Read More »