A couple of years ago, my husband surprised me with skydiving tickets for my birthday.

He made a big production out of it, gathering friends and family on our patio while I opened the card—which was probably tucked inside an envelope, inside a box, inside a bigger box. You get the picture.

I love adventure, and I have a bucket list of experiences a mile long. Skydiving might have been on it somewhere, but it certainly wasn’t near the top. We’ve written stories about 90-year-olds who jump out of airplanes, and I always figured that would be me—albeit, several decades from now.

But there I was, holding the gift and wondering how soon I’d have to work up the nerve (I’m still working on it).

This month’s cover story introduces readers to Jim and Sue Barnosky, a Delta County couple whose love of hot air ballooning has lifted both spirits and help launch the Western Sky Balloon Festival over Independence Day weekend.

After reading their story, I “floated” a new idea past my husband: “Wouldn’t you rather take me up in a hot air balloon?”

After all, drifting peacefully over the Western Slope sounds a lot more my speed than falling toward it.

GIVE VOLUNTEERS SOME LOVE

The timing of the Barnoskys’ story feels fitting. I first met Jim and Sue two years ago, when their work with the balloon festival earned them a nomination for our Montrose-Delta Volunteer of the Year Award.

Now we’re accepting nominations for our 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award, honoring outstanding senior volunteers in Montrose and Delta counties. Each nominee will be recognized on stage at BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair on Thursday, September 17, at the Montrose Pavilion.

Do you know a remarkable volunteer? Nominate them here! 

Speaking of BeaconFest, we’re gearing up for another great show with entertainment, educational seminars, prize giveaways, 65+ vendors and more. Look for a sneak peek in next month’s issue and at BeaconFest.com.

Booths sell out every year, so reserve your spot today by calling 970-243-8829.

GOT GAME?

It’s been a while since I’ve attended the Western Colorado Senior Games, but I still remember the energy—athletes cheering each other on, friendly rivalries and big smiles from competitors ranging in age from 50 to 100-plus. That spirit is why the BEACON has been a proud sponsor of this event for more than 20 years.

This epic weeklong event invites athletes 50 and older to stay active, test their skills, make friends and have fun in events ranging from pickleball and golf to swimming, bowling, track and field, pinochle and more.

Online registration is open through August 7. Bring a friend! Hopefully, I’ll see you on the field—or the court.  

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