I’ve always thought it appropriate that Veterans Day and Thanksgiving both fall within the same month. Among our many reasons to be thankful, our freedom should undoubtedly be at the top of the list.

This month, as we gather with our families and loved ones and reflect on everything we have to be thankful for, let’s not forget to express our appreciation for the brave men and women who have sacrificed and served to protect those freedoms. 

Len Ladue, a Vietnam veteran featured in this month’s cover story, knows the meaning of sacrifice. That’s why he and his wife, Judy, give all they can to support our area’s veterans, even in the midst of their own battle with cancer. 

When I asked Len and Judy how the community can get more involved in supporting veterans, they gave the following advice:  

• Visit them consistently. Don’t just visit them once and pat yourself on the back. A single visit is important, but continuous support means even more. 
• Volunteer. Whether it’s on your own or with an organization like the VFW or the VA hospital, volunteering your time makes a huge difference.
• Engage with them. Get to know them and their families, and keep an open mind to their experiences.
• Express your gratitude to a veteran not just during this month, but always. It is their sacrifice that has shielded many of us from the harrowing realities of war.

Be sure to explore the Veterans Day events featured in this month’s calendars and find resources for local veterans on our website: BeaconSeniorNews.com/some-give-all.

GIFT THE BEACON FOR CHRISTMAS

Thanks to our advertisers, the BEACON is distributed free of charge throughout Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties. However, in spite of our expanding circulation, the latest issue can be hard to find because of the growing number of seniors in our area. 

The best way to guarantee you receive your copy of the BEACON every month is to subscribe! For a limited time, you can gift the BEACON to a friend when you purchase a subscription for yourself. Turn to page 60 for details about this 2-for-1 deal.

A subscription also guarantees you won’t miss out on any senior-related news and events, including the release of our 2024 BEACON Guide. This annual resource directory includes hard-to-find contact information for clubs, medical centers, government agencies and more, which we verify annually. 

Do you know of an organization we should include? Call us at 970-243-8829 or email
[email protected]

OUR READERS KNOW BEST

One of the questions I’m asked most often by readers is: “Where do I go to meet people?” We also receive calls from individuals seeking recommendations for the best beauty salons, top-rated restaurants, best real estate agent, etc. So tell us about the businesses you love and that have earned your trust by nominating them for the 2024 BEACON Best awards. 

It’s easy to make your voice heard. Just fill out the ballot opposite this page and mail it in, or conveniently vote online at BeaconSenior News.com/beacon-best. Cast your vote by December 31 for a chance to win prizes and gift cards to some of the places you nominate. Don’t forget to let these businesses know you’re cheering them on!