December 2025 Explore the articles from this months BEACON magazine Stay on track when the days get short Seasonal fatigue doesn’t have to derail your goals. From sleep and meals to movement and mindset, TOPS shares simple winter habits to keep your energy—and weight loss—on track. Read More » Delta County Veteran Service Officer takes regional leadership role Delta County VSO Linda Reeves is now Region 3’s lead officer, supporting veterans across Western Colorado and ensuring they receive the benefits they've earned. Read More » Clubs in Mesa, Montrose & Delta Counties Looking to connect? Explore dozens of clubs for hobbies, service, music, crafts, outdoors, veterans, social groups and more across Mesa, Montrose & Delta counties. Read More » Support Groups in Mesa, Montrose & Delta Counties Find the support you need in Mesa, Montrose & Delta counties with dozens of groups for grief, caregiving, health, hobbies, veterans and more. Connect, heal and get involved locally. Read More » Santa, what I want for Christmas is...something local Shop local this Christmas with creative gift ideas from Western Colorado, including books, treats, handmade leashes and the BEACON. Plus, why “presence” may be the best gift of all. Read More » Weathering life together after loss with The Willows From potluck dinners to “yuck days” and poolside flamingos, The Willows offers widows real support, humor and healing as they walk through grief together. Read More » SMART goals for a healthier new year Learn how SMART goals help older adults build lasting habits in health, wellness and connection. Start small, stay motivated and thrive in 2026. Read More » Western Colorado’s cycling history unveiled Discover the full history of cycling in Western Colorado, from 1890s wheel clubs to modern trail systems and world-class mountain biking. Read More » Living in Alaska without sled dogs Discover the realities of Southeast Alaska living—from endless rain and ferry rides to storms, wildlife and a close-knit island community. Read More » Why bubble wrap makes Christmas perfect Why one man prefers bubble wrap and foam chips over traditional Christmas gifts—and the hilarious fallout that follows. Read More » How Sylvester Stallone became Rocky Sylvester Stallone went from bullied kid to Oscar-winning star by refusing to quit. Here’s the true story behind the making of Rocky. Read More » Holidays after a dementia diagnosis Dementia changed their Christmas forever. This caregiver shares grief, insight and practical ways to make holidays gentler for loved ones with memory loss. Read More » Is it flu or COVID? Key differences Unsure whether it’s flu or COVID? Compare symptoms, risks and treatments, plus get prevention tips for older adults this winter. Read More » Western Colorado holiday events celebrate the true meaning of Christmas Rediscover the true meaning of Christmas with two heartfelt Western Slope traditions—the Road to Bethlehem in Fruita and the Community Crèche Festival in Montrose. Read More » Win tickets to see The Bronx Wanderers at the Avalon Founder Vinnie Adinolfi once worked with—Dion, Frankie Valli, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel and Paul McCartney—along with hits by Queen and Bruno Mars and will be performing them at the Avalon Read More » Outsmart porch pirates and scammers with these safety tips Holiday joy shouldn’t be dimmed by theft or scams. Learn simple, smart safety steps to protect your home, packages and loved ones so you can enjoy a merry, worry-free season. Read More » The true star of Christmas: Seeing Christ beyond the season’s sparkle Balaam foresaw a rising star—Christ—yet missed His meaning. This reflection urges us to look past holiday glitter and see Jesus as the true light and heart of Christmas. Read More » Is church a waste of time? Church is a spiritual refueling. But worship should be meaningful, well-prepared and not a marathon. Here’s why gathering matters and what makes services work. Read More » A simple way to finally begin your memoir Feeling called to write your life story? Use seven “story anchors” to turn memories into meaningful chapters and start a memoir that’s focused, doable and deeply personal. Read More » 5 must-read books for plant lovers and curious gardeners Discover five captivating books exploring plant intelligence, regenerative gardening, herbal medicine, flavor-first farming, and botanical mixology—perfect for curious growers and nature lovers. Read More » Beat Bloating Naturally: Enzymes and Probiotics for Better Digestion Struggling with bloating or food sensitivities? Learn how digestive enzymes offer fast relief and probiotics support long-term gut health—so you can feel better after every meal. Read More » Holiday Jokes: Gifts, Trees & funny parrots A laugh-packed holiday collection—from gift tips for men to why Christmas trees beat relationships, workplace wisdom, family antics and more merry mischief. Read More » E-Edition