The hidden toll and quiet strength of caregiving

Caregiving can arrive suddenly and reshape every part of life. This column explores the emotional and physical toll caregivers face, while acknowledging the resilience many discover along the way. Read More »

So... about this month's cover

A printing press breakdown forced us to get creative with this month’s cover, giving March a one-time retro look. I share what happened, celebrate our amazing volunteers and preview the excitement of BeaconFest. Read More »

How to feed your soil for best overall plant health, growth and yield

Boost water retention, cut fertilizer use and grow stronger plants by building soil carbon. Learn how living, dead and composted organic matter transform your garden. Read More »

Does eating breakfast later speed up aging?

Is your 10 a.m. breakfast a choice or a red flag? A 20-year study links delayed meals to higher mortality, but the real culprit might be hidden health issues. Here is why timing matters. Read More »

Vote for the 2026 Volunteer of the Year

We are so excited to introduce our 2026 Volunteer of the Year nominees. Voting ends Friday, April 3 at 4 p.m. Read More »

The darling dames bring vintage pinup glamour back to Montrose

In Montrose, the Darling Dames revive 1940s glamour. This community of women aged 20–69 uses vintage pinup style and "transformations" to build modern confidence, friendship, and sisterhood. Read More »

The 2026 BEACON Guide is here!

The BEACON guide is full of local trusted resources to help you age well in Mesa, Montrose and Delta counties. Each listing is personally called and verified by BEACON staff to make sure we are giving you the most up-to-date information. Read More »

A front row seat to history with secret service agent Jerry O'Rourke

From guarding JFK in 1963 to sharing laughs with Reagan, 91-year-old Jerry O’Rourke shares the grit and glamour of life in the Secret Service and the heavy price of protecting the president. Read More »

A tiny town and a can of peas make for a legendary Saturday night

Step into the fictional world of KPEA "radio" at the Pea Green Community Hall. For 20 years, this variety show has traded slick production for acoustic tunes, community potlucks, and the most coveted prize in Colorado: a re-labeled can of peas. Read More »

Discovering the cayman islands a senior travel guide beyond the beach

The Cayman Islands offer more than just sun and sand. Explore pirate history, rare blue iguanas, and world-class snorkeling in this guide to a perfect Caribbean retirement getaway. Read More »

A new year of laughs to keep you smiling through the chaos

From husbands who only cook when danger is involved to the genius wife who solved a "living will" crisis by simply unplugging the TV, these jokes celebrate the true masters of the household. Read More »

Mesa County Jail Ministry Senior volunteers bring faith to those behind bars

At 83, Ellen Woods is proving that senior volunteers can change lives. Discover how her 11-year journey in jail ministry is offering Mesa County inmates a path toward faith and renewal. Read More »

Vinegar valentines and the history of victorian era anonymous insults

Before romantic cards ruled the holiday, 19th-century "vinegar valentines" allowed people to send anonymous, mean-spirited insults that the recipients often had to pay for themselves. Read More »

Not me! why smart seniors fall for romance scams and how to stay safe

Romance scams can happen to anyone. Hear from "Kate," a survivor who lost $40,000, as she shares the red flags to watch for and the hard-earned lessons every senior needs to know to stay safe. Read More »

Cupid canines, four-legged friends might be the secret to a better love life

Canines are the ultimate matchmakers! New data shows dogs help couples bond through teamwork and shared care, while single pet owners are 72% more likely to get a "swipe right" on dating apps. Read More »