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The Senior Published Locally Since 1980 April 2025 HERE COMES THE SUN Baseball is Back!2 • The Senior Voice • April 2025 Published Locally Since 1980 Vol. 45, No. 4 PUBLICATION INFORMATION The Senior Voice is locally owned and has been published the first of each month since 1980 for residents in Fort Collins, Greeley, Loveland and nearby areas. ADVERTISING Ad deadline is 20th of month. For rates, call (970) 227-2722; email wolf@theseniorvoice.net or see www.theseniorvoice.net Wolfgang Lambdin Publisher and Advertising Director Fort Collins, Colorado (970) 227-2722 wolf@theseniorvoice.net wolf.lambdin@gmail.com EDITORIAL DEADLINE: Announcements and stories must be received by the 10th of the month; ads by the 20th of the month. READER INFORMATION: Subscriptions $52 a year. Writers' opinions are not necessarily those of The Senior Voice. EDITORIAL OFFICE: (970) 227-2722 wolf@theseniorvoice.net wolf.lambdin@gmail.com www.theseniorvoice.net Design Production by Ellen Bryant Design ellenbryantdesign@gmail.com © Copyright 2025 The Senior Voice No material may be reproduced by any means without permission of the Senior Voice. William and Peggy Lambdin Founders, 1980 Online at www.theseniorvoice.net By Mike Haskins Many of us have a favorite sea- son. Summer holds an infinite num- ber of memories. The word itself evokes the feeling of the hot days that seem to go on forever, only to melt into warm nights. Fall arrives and the trees put on a show. The reds, oranges and yellows parade in a pageant of change. The air chills at night. The day's sunshine has a different look and feel. It's a liminal mix of summer and the crisp change that we crave. The sameness is replaced by anticipation. Winter reminds us to embrace comfort and cozy. Skies become gray and heavy with the threat of snow, or so blue they almost hurt our eyes. The cold inspires sweaters and coats, and hands rubbed together. Snow falls, and we get to see what the world looks like when it dresses up. Then spring dances in. The very meaning of green...of beginning again, and new life. Rebirth, and the feeling of optimism about what is next. Color and breezes that lift the spirits. It is heralded by the sounds of red wing black birds, as they land on reeds and leaves, that couldn’t support a whisper, singing of the growing warmth and calling to one another, in a wholesome yet lasciv- ious way. Glorious spring sets the table for the season that truly renews the spirit. The season that gives the summer meaning. The season that shakes off for good the doldrums of brutish winter. A force that takes fall and transforms it into a classic. It’s a season full of sounds that are unmis- takable, with a language all its own. For all the wonder in summer, fall, winter, and spring, my favorite season is the best one of all—base- ball season. Cities and fans all over the coun- try awaken with a fresh conviction, sure that this year, their team is head- ed to the World Series. It's time for caps, t-shirts, and jerseys. Time to trade the brutal Sun- days of the NFL season for a trip to the park. For a game that is untimed, moving at the pace of life. The smell of ballpark hotdogs fills the air. Warm pretzels, and cold beer. Popcorn and cracker jack. Kids and grownups fill the stands, wear- ing a trusty glove, just in case they are pressed into action, in pursuit of the coveted foul ball. The ground is fertile for nostal- gia, for the retelling of the past. The names in baseball history's starring roles sound like great characters of fiction. The Babe, The Mick, The Duke. Nicknames that defy any other words to best their evocative resur- rection of memory. Teddy Ballgame, Hammerin' Hank, the Say-Hey Kid. Names that aren’t just a part of base- ball history, but are also part of our nation's fabric: Satchel Paige, Cool Papa Bell, Jackie Robinson. These, and so many others, are as relevant today, as they were when they wore cleats. Baseball comes embroidered with its own dictionary and coded language. Six to four to three. The cut-off man. Drawing a base on balls. The sacrifice fly. A back pick. The hidden ball trick, and on and on it goes. We get to see fireballers, portsiders, thumbers, junk ballers, and closers. There is the shutout, the No No, and the perfect game. Nothing in the game is as excit- ing as the home run. A word used by all, whether they know baseball or not. It’s as much a part of the Amer- ican lexicon as car or cowboy. Noth- ing in history, not even love, has been described in so many different ways. Dinger, long ball, bomb, blast, shot, tater, just to name a few. A ball disappearing over the outfield wall is the peak of sports. No one who has seen one has ever forgotten it. Baseball is a summer romance, played out on the greenest grass ever grown, in a place called a park. It's full of hope and heartbreak and whether we sit on the third baseline, or in the nose bleeds, there is noth- ing like being there. Baseball is my favorite season. We have all played it, at some point. It brings us together. Fathers and sons, the guy in the seat next to yours, ready with a high five for a home run, the woman on the street wearing your team's hat. Baseball may be the All-American Game, but the many players from further afield knit us together as a global sports family. Baseball gives the other seasons perspective. You’re invited to this party, one and all. Under the sun, or under the lights. How fortunate we are here in northern Colorado, to have, less than an hour away, one of the most beau- tiful ballparks in the Major Leagues. Head there on a date, or take the kids, baseball works for both. Grab your glove, I promise it still fits. It’s waiting for you, the memories, those waiting to be made. And of course, the thrill of the grass. Let's play ball. Cover photo taken by Fort Collins photographer Gregory Mayse, who has published two cof- fe table boooks of photos: "Colo- rado: Rocky Mountain Magic" and "Rocky Mountain Wild". His photos have been featured on television, in magazines such as BBC Wild- life. See www.facebook.com/Greg- ory-Mayse-Photography. Email glmayse@msn.com. Here Comes The SunApril 2025 • The Senior Voice • 3 Recreation SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT AREA BOTANIC GARDENS Northern Colorado and its neighboring regions offer a delight- ful array of botanical gardens, each providing unique experiences that celebrate the beauty and diversity of plant life. From the urban oasis of the Denver Botanic Gardens to the community-centered Gardens on Spring Creek in Fort Collins, and extending to the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens in Wyoming, these spaces serve as sanctuaries for nature en- thusiasts and casual visitors alike. Denver Botanic Gardens Situated in Denver’s Cheesman Park neighborhood, the Denver Bo- tanic Gardens span over 23 acres and are renowned as one of the top botanical gardens in the nation. The gardens feature a conservatory, a variety of themed gardens, and a sunken amphitheater that hosts sum- mer concerts. Notable attractions include the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory, the first con- servatory in America made entire- ly of concrete and Plexiglas panes, and the Japanese Garden, Shofu-en, designed by Koichi Kawana. The gardens also house North Ameri- ca’s largest collection of plants from cold temperate climates and have pi- oneered the world’s first Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, promoting water-efficient landscaping. Gardens on Spring Creek, Fort Collins In Fort Collins, the Gardens on Spring Creek serve as a 12-acre bo- tanical oasis, offering carefully cu- rated spaces that provide an escape for healing and retreat. As one of Fort Collins’ premier cultural orga- nizations, the gardens feature rich educational opportunities, an annual concert series, and family-friendly public events. The mission of the Gardens on Spring Creek is to en- rich the lives of people and foster environmental stewardship through horticulture. Cheyenne Botanic Gardens Just across the Colorado border, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens in Wyoming offer a unique horticultur- al experience. Spanning nine acres, the gardens feature award-winning perennial and annual landscapes, in- cluding a Peace Garden and a year- round vegetable garden that provides produce to low-income citizens and senior volunteers. The centerpiece is the Grand Conservatory, which houses a tropical plant collection, a baroque-style orangerie, and a bon- sai house. The gardens also show- case desert, Mediterranean, and prehistoric landscapes, reflecting the diverse ecosystems of the region. Each of these botanical gardens offers a unique perspective on plant life and environmental stewardship, making them must-visit destinations for those interested in the natural beauty of Northern Colorado and its surroundings. The Japanese Garden at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Adobe Stock.4 • The Senior Voice • April 2025 Health & Wellness Providing the Ultimate Care in Dermatology General and Cosmetic-Enhancing Dermatology Mohs Surgery (970) 667-3116 • IdealDermatology.com Fort Collins • Loveland • Windsor • Sterling • Boulder Dermatology Kevin Mott, M.D. David Seitz, PA-C Kathryn L. Olsen, PA-C Meredith Williams, PA-C Nichole Hart, MSN, FNP-BC Michaela Sullivan, PA-C By John Morland with ElderImpact.org Yoga and meditation offer a wide variety of opportunities for se- niors, including substantial physical and mental health benefits. When integrated correctly into your daily routine, these practices elevate your overall well-being and instill a pro- found sense of inner peace. Consult Before You Start Before you begin any new ex- ercise regimen – including yoga and meditation – consult with your healthcare provider. That’s especial- ly important if you have existing health conditions or mobility issues. Your doctor can also offer guidance on which yoga styles might be best for you. Gentle Yoga for Every Body If you’re new to yoga, start with gentle styles such as Hatha or Chair Yoga. These forms focus on slow movements, making them ideal for beginners and those with limited mobility. By easing into the prac- tice, you can build strength and flex- ibility at a comfortable pace, setting the foundation for a more enjoyable yoga journey. The Power of Breathing Breathing exercises are a corner- stone of both yoga and meditation, boosting circulation and lung ca- pacity while managing your body’s response to stress. Integrating mind- ful breathing into your practice can deepen your yoga experience and enhance the calming effects of med- practice and patience, so make each session an opportunity for shared growth and relaxation. As you incorporate yoga and meditation into your life, remem- ber that the journey is as rewarding as the destination. With each pose and every breath, you are stepping towards a healthier, more peaceful version of yourself. Embrace each moment and allow the transforma- tive power of these practices to en- rich your senior years. Stay informed, engaged, and connected with news and insights from The Senior Voice. STRETCH AND SOOTHE: Yoga Practices and Meditation Tips for Ageless Wellness Stress Reduction Through Medi- tation Meditating for just 10-20 min- utes a day can significantly reduce your stress levels. This simple prac- tice helps clear the mind and soothe the nervous system, making it an invaluable tool for combating the pressures of daily life. Regular med- itation can lead to improved emo- tional balance and a renewed sense of purpose. itation, helping you achieve greater mental clarity and relaxation. Create a Serene Space To get the most out of your yoga and meditation sessions, ensure your environment is comfortable and free from distractions. A tranquil space will help you focus and fully engage with your practice, allowing you to reap the full benefits of each session. Yoga and meditation take regular April 2025 • The Senior Voice • 5 HowCanWeHelp? 50+BrainandBodyFitness FREECONSULTATION,ASSESMENT,ANDSESSION Freedom,Independence,Confidence 4206SCollege Unit108 FortCollins,CO 970-803-2710 email-kirk@fit-rx.net www.fit-rx.net Scheduleyourfreeconsultationtoday!www.fit-rx.net EVERYONECanFightPhysical andCognitiveDecline Ourmatureyearsarethetimetoenjoygrandkids,hobbies, travelandservingothers.Weneedtohavethephysicaland cognitivehealthtodoit!! 1:1PersonalTraining BrainGym Ourgroupprogramcan helpkeepyourbrainsharp tocontinuelivingyourbest life! Privateenvironment, experiencedtrainers,and individualizedprogrammingfor optimalresults! MemorySlipping? Troublelearningnewskills? Worriedaboutcognitive decline? Areyoulosing: Strength Power Balance Confidence6 • The Senior Voice • April 2025 Area History Tired of phone calls and letters offering to help with Medicare when they are really trying to sell you something? The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) office for Northern Colorado is the only place staffed by Medicare experts who aren’t selling. We offer Medicare 101 classes, one-on-one counseling sessions, assistance during open enrollment and, new this year, a class on how to review your own Medicare options during open enrollment. Call 970.495.8558 for schedules and additional information. MEDICARE MADE EASY WILD BILL IN CHEYENNE (Editor’s Note: Wyoming histori- an Margaret Laybourn wrote this story years ago.) Wild Bill Hickok was nick- named “Duck Bill” before he earned his “Wild” sobriquet through his ability to make a six gun talk faster and truer than the other fellow’s. His big nose, rather wide at the base, was the reason for the first moniker.It was said that he threat- ened to shoot anyone who called him “Duck Bill.” James Butler Hickok had al- ready achieved his reputation as a gunman by the time he lived in Cheyenne in 1876. The doorway to his room opened onto a stairway on the second floor. One night after drinking and gambling at a local saloon, Bill stumbled up to his room and fell onto his bed. In the early morninghours a cow, wandering unfettered through the streets, was tempted by a sweet taste spilling from a barrel of sugar stored on the sidewalk in front of a grocery store. The cow got the barrel open and licked her way in until she got her head stuck. The store occupied the ground floor of the building next to where Hickok stayed. Panic gripped the cow, and she blundered to the stairway that went to Bill’s room. Aroused from his sleep by a terrible racket in the stairway, Hickok leaped from bed, grabbed his gun, surged to the head of the stairs, and opened fire in the direction of the noise. He shot even though he could not see what was there, and the cow collapsed. Hickok endured a ribbing after- wards; but his pride was hurt, and he left Cheyenne for Deadwood. There he died from an assassin’s bullet fired into his back. While in Cheyenne, he married a woman named Agnes Thatcher; but he left soon after and never saw her again. James Butler Hickok. Photo National Archives.April 2025 • The Senior Voice • 7 Health & Wellness Smile with Confidence Again FREE Consultation and CT Scan ($425 value) Full mouth dental implants •New smile in one day •One doctor, one location •No impressions and same day 3d printing •Interest free and fl exible payment plans Trusted, Local Dental Implant Expert for 30 Years. Schedule a FREE Consultation Today! (970) 669-3918 | AdvancedImplantSmiles.com | 2641 Abarr Drive, Loveland BEFOREAFTER 5 SKIN CARE MISTAKES SENIORS SHOULD AVOID By Dr. Leslie Capin, Board Certi- fied Dermatologist from Cara Mia Dermatology As we age, our skin can become thinner, drier, and more vulnerable to damage. However, many seniors unknowingly make skin care mis- takes that can lead to painful and damaging sunburns, infections, pre- mature aging, and even skin cancer. In fact, at least one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, reinforcing the need for prop- er sun protection and skin care. Here are five things seniors should never do to their skin and alternatives to reduce cancer risks, skin damage, and the visual impacts of aging. 1. Skipping Sunscreen There are many sunscreen myths that people read and believe in literature, magazines, and social media. Some of these include that sunscreen is not necessary for in- doors, overcast days, or for people with darker skin tones. The truth is that prolonged, unprotected sun ex- posure in any condition increases your risk for skin cancer and signs of aging, such as sunspots, wrin- kles, and broken capillaries. Seniors should use a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with in- gredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that are gentle on aging skin. 2. Ignoring Dry Skin Our skin produces less oil as we age, which can lead to an excess in dryness. Dryness increases the visible signs of skin aging, causes physical discomfort, and reduces the skin’s ability to heal. To limit dry- ness, seniors should reduce their use of harsh soaps and switch to hydrat- ing cleansers and moisturizers with ceramides and peptides to strength- en the skin’s natural moisture barri- er. 3. Neglecting Skin Cancer Screen- ings According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin can- cer is the most common cancer in the United States. Despite this statis- tic, many Americans do not sched- ule regular skin cancer screenings to evaluate their risk and skin health. Even if you do not see any unusu- al changes in your skin, it’s crucial to schedule an annual exam with a dermatology provider who is trained to identify abnormalities that can be signs of a larger condition. 4. Overusing Anti-Aging Products Products that market to seniors looking to reduce the signs of aging often include harsh ingredients that can lead to skin irritation and sensi- tivity, such as retinoids and exfoliat- ing acids. When starting an anti-ag- ing skin regimen, start with products that include a low concentration of active ingredients and build your way up over time. For retinol, for example, start with applying a prod- uct a couple of times a week that includes a low concentration of 0.25% or less. Consider scheduling an appointment with a dermatology provider to obtain a consultation and discuss which products are the most appropriate for your age and skin type. 5. Ignoring Skin Injuries The skin takes longer to heal from even minor cuts and bruises as we get older due to skin dryness, slow cell turnover, medical condi- tions, medications, and more. How- ever, if left unresolved for too long, minor cuts and bruises can become more serious infections. Keep an eye out for any injuries to the skin and ensure they’re cleaned and protect- ed immediately. If a wound doesn’t heal within two weeks or becomes infected, contact a dermatology pro- vider. Prioritize Your Skin Health The skin is the largest organ and, like the rest of your health, deserves to be prioritized. By avoiding these common mistakes, seniors can keep their skin healthy and beautiful for years to come. To prioritize your skin health, schedule a total-body skin exam with a dermatologist near you.8 • The Senior Voice • April 2025 Money Talks ColumbineHealth.com Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing • Health & Rehab Schedule a Tour Today • Northern Colorado’s Leader in Senior Care • 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Sign today and get a 2 Bedroom Apartment for the Price of a 1 Bedroom for First 6 Months! Available at The Wexford: 1515 W. 28th St, Loveland • 970-667-1900 Take advantage of these amenities: hospital liaisons, transportation 5 days a week, staff available 24/7, weekly housekeeping, full maintenance, and engaging activities. Become a resident at Columbine Health and your health will be a priority throughout the entire Columbine system. Save $799 a Month for 6 Months! Plus, enjoy a complimentary membership to Windsor Community Recreation Center Available at The Windsor: 1385 Main St, Windsor • 970-460-5005 INDEPENDENT LIVING Spring Savings! a HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNTS: A Smart Tool for Healthcare in Retirement? For individuals over 55, manag- ing healthcare expenses becomes an increasing priority. One of the most underutilized but highly effective fi- nancial tools available is the Health Savings Account (HSA). Designed to help individuals save for medi- cal costs in a tax-advantaged way, HSAs offer flexibility and long-term benefits. An HSA is available to people with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and can be withdrawn tax-free for qualified medical expenses. Unlike a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), funds in an HSA roll over each year and do not expire. HSAs provide an opportunity to build tax-free savings for healthcare costs in retirement. If used strategi- cally, they can even serve as an ad- ditional retirement savings vehicle. To open and contribute to an HSA, you must: •Be enrolled in a High Deduct- ible Health Plan (HDHP) •Not be enrolled in Medicare (once you sign up for Medicare, you can not contribute to but can still use your existing HSA funds) •Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return People 55 and older can contrib- ute an extra $1,000 per year to their HSA as a “catch-up” contribution. For 2025, the standard contribution limit is $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families, plus the addi- tional $1,000 if you qualify. HSAs can be used to pay for a wide range of qualified medical ex- penses, including doctor visits & hospital stays, prescription medica- tions, dental & vision care (includ- ing glasses, contacts, and hearing aids), Medicare premiums (exclud- ing Medigap plans), and even long- term care insurance premiums. One of the biggest advantages of an HSA is the ability to invest the funds and let them grow tax-free. Since healthcare costs tend to rise with age, having a dedicated tax-free fund can ease financial burdens later in life. After turning 65, you can with- draw HSA funds for any purpose, not just medical expenses. Howev- er, non-medical withdrawals will be subject to income tax (similar to a traditional IRA). The benefit? There is no penalty for non-medical with- drawals after 65. This makes HSAs a powerful savings tool—use it for healthcare, or let it serve as an additional retirement fund. Once enrolled in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA, but you can still use the funds to pay for some premiums, copays and de- ductibles, and qualified long term care expenses. Editor's note: Consult a finan- cial planning expert to help guide your retirement decisions.April 2025 • The Senior Voice • 9 Meals Shelter More than.. ever before DONATE! FortCollinsRescueMission.org/MoreThan COLORADO CROSSWORDS by Tony Donovan COLORADO CROSSWORDS are created by longtime Loveland residents Tony and Peggy Donovan . READ The Senior Voice ONLINE AT: www.TheSeniorVoice.net CALL The Senior Voice at 970-227-2722 12345678910111213 141516 171819 20212223 2425 2627282930313233 343536 37383940 41424344 454647 484950 51525354555657 58596061 626364 656667 1 C 2 A 3 S 4 H 5 S 6 N 7 A 8 P 9 S 1 0 L 1 1 O 1 2 D 1 3 O 1 4 A R L O 1 5 N O L A W 1 6 A V O N 1 7 R I A L 1 8 O T E R O 1 9 P E L E 2 0 B A B Y 2 1 D O E 2 2 D O 2 3 L O R E S 2 4 O D D 2 5 B O N E R 2 6 A 2 7 F 2 8 A K E 2 9 P U N 3 0 A T 3 1 R 3 2 I 3 3 A 3 4 F U S E 3 5 O A F 3 6 S P E E D O 3 7 A R K 3 8 B O N F 3 9 I L S 4 0 F I R 4 1 C O M 4 2 E U P 4 3 A N Y 4 4 R I O T 4 5 T R E V I 4 6 E L K 4 7 C O S T A 4 8 A L 4 9 A M O 5 0 F U M 5 1 R 5 2 O 5 3 U N D U P 5 4 D U R A 5 5 N 5 6 G 5 7 O 5 8 B A L D 5 9 D I 6 0 P I N 6 1 N O A H 6 2 I S E E 6 3 I R A N I 6 4 O D I N 6 5 S T E R 6 6 T E T O N 6 7 V E T O ACROSS 1. Johnny with a guitar 5. Goes off the deep end 10. Trendy section of Denver around Coors Field, briefly 14. Guthrie of folk music fame 15. “Why not? There’s ______ ______ against it.” 16. Town near Beaver Creek 17. Currency used by #63 across 18. Colorado county home to Rocky Ford 19. Soccer great from Brazil 20. Horace’s second wife 22. The Dominguez-Escalante expedition traveled along this river in 1776 24. Any whole number not divisible by two 25. Big mistake or gaff 26. The rare Monet turned out to be ______. 29. Wit often reacted to with a groan 30. Some lavish hotel lobbies 34. Join together 35. Clumsy one 36. Michael Phelps brand 37. Floating hotel of old? 38. Helen of Denver philanthropy fame 40. Douglas, for one 41. Mae West request before “and see me sometime” 43. “ ______ port in a storm” 44. Ferguson event of 2015 45. Roman fountain of note 46. Year round resident of RMNP 47. ______ Rica 48. Last stop for Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie 50. McGraw of CSU sports fame, familiarly 51. Event preceding a “trail drive” in the West 54. One terminus of the Colorado Trail 58. Descriptive of Yul Brenner or Bruce Willis 59. “Let’s go for a ______ ______ the pool.” 61. “Captain” of #37 across 62. “______ trees of green, red roses, too” (Louis Armstrong) 63. Tehran native 64. Chief god of Norse Mythology 65. Suffix for “gang” or “mob” 66. ______ Range in Wyoming 67. Overrule DOWN 1. Low ______ diet 2. Operatic highlight 3. Base for a portable building: concrete ______ 4. Town in NE Colorado named for a Massachusetts community 5. Woman’s hair covering or net 6. Take notice of 7. The “A” in IPA 8. “ ___ me boys, is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo?” 9. Be overcome with rapture 10. First county seat of Larimer County 11. Partner of “out” 12. Big name in pineapple 13. Wallet fillers 21. Presidential monogram of 1956 23. By ______ and bounds 25. Colorado University mascot 26. “It is ______ ______ of life.” 27. Turmoil or upheaval 28. “ _____ ____ no questions, I’ll tell you no lies!” 29. The Frying ______ River near Aspen 31. Mortgage redo’s, for short 32. Every village has one, they say 33. Life line 35. Alley ______ 36. Nickname for Sylvester Stallone 38. Physique 39. Tattoo parlor supply 42. Holyfield of ring fame 44. Russian czar (1613-1635) 46. Mountain town near Berthoud Pass 47. Junkyard dog 49. CPA specialty 50. “ ____ ____ the sun!” Ad slogan for Cancun or Hawaii 51. Stats for Cargo or Arenado 52. Kiln for dryng hops 53. Title role for Peter Fonda (1997) for which he received a Best Actor nomination 54. Real first name of Dean Martin 55. Lymph ______ 56. Trot or canter 57. Words preceding “not again!” 60. Broncos owner, ______ BowlenNext >