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May 10, 2023

2/8/2023

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5/10/2023
President Gary Fitzpatrick opened the meeting at 10 am.

Jerry Norton moved to approve the minutes from last month and Bob Noble seconded the motion. The motion passed.

Treasurer Bill Gates said we have $6,523.54 in money market and $3629.14 in checking. Last month’s raffle brought in $47, which helps to offset the cost of our coffee and goodies for each meeting. Tanya Davis and others are now making the treats and coffee for our meetings. Thank you all!

Pres. Gary recognized April birthdays. Happy Birthday all!

Linda Ash of the We Care committee said everyone stayed healthy and no cards were sent out.

Membership committee said we had some new members! They are:Teresa Ann Bell; Neil and Bobbie Usselman; Elsa Francis; Barb Hofecker; Terry Furtney; Janet Hejl; Dawn and William Weigand; and Roger and Ellora Stanton. Welcome all!

Mike Avery said there were no updates for the website and Dale Gates had no updates for the newsletter.

Nile Leach of the Tour and Lunch group reminded everyone of the Fire Department tour the next day. It was filled! He also said on the 23rd of May they are going to the Ute Museum in Montrose and touring the petroglyphs. It was so popular they opened up June 8th as a second trip to the Museum as well.

Armchair Travelers is on hiatus until Sept. 7 at the library. It has MOVED to Thursdays from Mondays!!!!

Ken Seitz announced the next happy hour on the 31st will be at Base Camp in Fruita.

Susan Norton filled in for Tizza Chace for the wine tasting evening. The next event is at the Art Center from 4 to 6-ish pm on May 25. Cost is $25 per person. It will be on Italian wines.

Susan also mentioned the Two Rivers Stray Grass concert for the 16th is SOLD OUT! The next concert is June 20 with Exit 42.

Our speaker today was John Marshall, the 11th President of Colorado Mesa University. John reported that CMU strives to think outside the ideological monolith box in which ideas tend to harden and instead create an educational environment that centers on common values. Seven values at the center of the university’s “Forming the Future Initiative Core” are: love, dignity, resiliency,
humility, courage, curiosity, and power. These values are woven into the curriculum of all classes. The university strives to function on a “human scale.” That is, it endeavors to offer the community the courses it needs while remaining small enough so that students feel they belong.

Only one in five students in our community achieves a college degree as compared to one in three in the rest of the state.

John also described the university’s innovative and cost-saving geothermal heating system and the new performing arts center that will bring off-Broadway as well as local productions to the community. Note: Look for the upcoming Tour and Lunch event at CMU later in June.

Pres. Gary closed the meeting out at 11:08.
                                             - Suzan Fournier, Secretary

2/8/2023
Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am. Bob acknowledged the coffee committee of Les and Tizza. Thank you for the goodies!

Happy Birthday to all February birthdays!

Terry Adcock made a motion to accept the Secretary’s minutes from the January meeting. David Austin seconded that motion.

New Treasurer Bill Gates told us we have $2948.27 in checking and $6518 in our money market. Pres. Bob said, as Susan Norton always said, “We have money!” Lois Leach made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report and Les Slowik seconded that motion.

Bob let the members know that next month there will be no speaker as we have an election of new Officers. Currently the folks running for office are as follows:
    * Gary Fitzpatrick for President
    * Tom Politzer for 1st Vice President
    * Nile Leach for 2nd Vice President
    * Suzan Fournier for Secretary
And Bill Gates who is already elected as Treasurer.

Gary Fitzpatrick spoke for a few minutes to let us know that when he lived in Ohio (go Buckeyes) that he was involved in Rotary, served on a hospital board, and was involved in the Chamber of Commerce. So he does have experience in helping to lead a group and looks forward to grow and lead our Newcomers Group.

Tom Politzer was unable to attend as he had travel plans but will be there in March.

Pres. Bob thanked Carolyn White for her MANY years performing the newsletter and website tasks.  She did a great job and has passed that onto Dale Gates for the newsletter and Mike Avery for our Webmaster. Mike has lots of IT experience. Thank you both for taking on these tasks!

Bob introduced Cheryl Click with Hilltop, a nonprofit organization that has provided human services for over 70 years. The 400 paid employees aided by 100 volunteers offer 20 programs for children, youth, and seniors. Hilltop manages 90 facilities in Grand Junction, Delta, and Montrose. Volunteers have contributed 14,000
hours reading to clients, assisting instructors, playing instruments, or just talking to patients. Opportunities to volunteer are nearly unlimited. If you are interested in looking into their volunteer program you can go to their website at http://www.htop.org to find out more.

Stan Zygmunt of New Dimensions mentioned the
midday meeting for the following day at the library.  There will be a presentation on the History of Teller
Indian School.

Bob mentioned that our Armchair Travelers presentation at the library was well attended. There were 83 folks there.

Les Slowik said the The Venue where they have been having the wine club meet is closing down. He is looking into other places to hold this group. Fisher’s Market closes at 7:30 and Les was asking for a show of hands if folks would attend at this hour. Several hands were raised at this suggestion. Someone mentioned looking into Eureka as a meeting place. Les is going to check that out. We need to bring in our own wine and food.

Douglas Grodt of the hiking group mentioned that in addition to hiking he is knowledgeable in astronomy, native plants, and history. The next walk is an easy one along the riverfront trail at Las Colonias and through Watson Island. Hikers can visit the nearby botanical gardens after the hike. If you want to be put on the email list, get with Douglas.

Nile Leach who helps with the Tour and Lunch group said that on March 15 they are visiting the curbside recycling facility at 333 West Ave. at 10:30 am. Lunch will follow at a soon-to-be decided location.

Feb. 15 at 10:30 am is the tour of the Community Food Bank at 28 1/2 Rd., between North and Hwy 50. Lunch will be at Randy’s Southside Diner unless someone else has a better idea!

Nile thanked everyone who attended the Armchair Travelers at the library. It was very well attended. The next one at the library will be Dan Leeth who was a photojournalist for several travel magazines. The program will be Winter in Quebec City.

Dale Gates requested photos of our groups for the newsletter. PNG, GIF, or JPEG formats are best. Send photos to dale.gates1@gmail.com. Mike Avery offered to post pictures on the website if there are too many for the newsletter.

Linda Ash of the We Care committee sent out two cards this month. One was to Cynthia McCalla who has been feeling bad and Wayne McCalla for breaking an ankle.

Larrayne Zygmunt of the Membership Committee announced several visitors at our meeting! Thank you all for visiting. We also have 4 new members: Lynne Sommers, Jessica Ipnar, Jan Wilslev and Debbie De Roo. Welcome all!

The raffle was held by Les Slowik. He proposed we do a silent auction for the raffle to speed things up. He asked if everyone thought that was a good idea and there was a BOO from the crowd. The raffle will stand as is! Nice try, Les!

Les Slowik called for meeting to be adjourned and Alec Fournier concurred. Meeting adjourned at 11:08!

                                               - Suzan Fournier, Secretary

1/11/2023
President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am. A motion to approve the minutes from the November meeting as published in the December newsletter was made by Linda Ash and seconded by Jerry Norton. They were accepted by acclamation. No meeting in December accounts for the time lag.

Treasurer Susan Norton announced, “We still have money,” specifically in $1854 in our checking account and $6,516 in our money market account. The November raffle brought in $52. The holiday party was very successful with about 93 attendees. The club subsidy was only $305. Proceeds from the auction of the centerpieces were donated to Hope West and Kids Aid with each receiving $88. Sue Slaughter and her committee did a fabulous job in putting everything together. Jerry Norton made a motion to accept the Treasurers report and Tanya Davis seconded it. It was accepted by all.

President Bob thanked Les and Tizza for their wonderful contribution of goodies and coffee. We do appreciate it!

Birthdays for the month of December and January were recognized. Happy Birthday all!

Membership committee Larrayne Zygmunt introduced guests Mike and Lea Shay from Loveland and Tammie Vickery from Illinois. New members are Beverly Bailey, who made the move here from Pueblo and is living with her daughter, and  Steve and Kathy Smeirciek from Silverthorne.

Linda Ash of the “We Care” group let us know we have all been so healthy! She did send out two cards to a couple of guys with shoulder surgeries: Jerry Norton and John Mead. She is in the directory if you know of anyone who needs a card for any reason.
Dale Gates is the new newsletter editor. She would like information for the newsletter no later than the 20th or 21st of the month.

Bob introduced our speaker, Joy Thompson, executive director of Mesa County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program. The program began in Seattle, WA, in 1977 and there are currently about 400 programs across the nation. The role of the CASA volunteer is to be the voice for the child. Volunteers are appointed when a child is removed from the home because of abuse or neglect and involvement continues until the case is resolved. Joy described the training volunteers receive, she outlined the duties, and Joy emphasized the need for volunteers. More information about the program or volunteering can be found at casamc.org.

Les Slowik reminded everyone of the wine tasting on Jan. 17 with Spanish wines and tapas. The next tasting will be in March with roses.

Joan Robinson thanked everyone for contributing to a successful donation program for the Salvation Army. Thirty families received donations. Thanks, Jan, for taking this on! It is a great program.

Several interest group leaders gave reminders about upcoming events.

Stan Zygmunt announced New Dimensions' winter/spring session. Registration for 70 classes runs Jan. 27 - 31, with classes Feb. 6 - March 24. Full information is at newdimensionsgj.org.

Douglas Grodt told hikers of a change to next day's hike.

Nile Leach said the February Armchair Traveler presentation would be by Mike Perry, former executive director of the Museums of Western Colorado, on a river trip in Peru.

Roger Bain said he'd lead the Jan. 18 Tour and Lunch of the Colorado Welcome Center in Fruita. Lunch will follow at Munchies.

Lois Leach will be a speaker at 5:30 at Love Recital on MLK day. She is involved in the League of Women Voters, which will speak about information disseminated to schools regarding MLK.

Pres. Bob reminded everyone about the ELECTION OF NEW OFFICERS coming up at the February meeting. Candidates will be announced next month in February. Please step forward right away and let Bob know if you are interested in any of the officer duties.

Susan Norton said Bill Gates has offered to take over the Treasurer position. It is necessary to get bank signature cards signed now so Susan requested a vote to accept Bill as Treasurer so the result can be published in the minutes. Susan made a motion to accept Bill Gates as Treasurer. Alec Fournier seconded and Bill is Treasurer by acclamation.

Susan also announced the Art Center’s Wildflight concert on Jan. 28. She has tickets or you can buy them online. They are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door. This is a very fun and lively band.

Nile mentioned that the Tour and Lunch Club typically does not go to places that require an admission fee but they are planning some day trips. A June 6 trip is planned to the Ute Indian Museum in Montrose with a private tour of the petroglyphs. Cost will be about $30. Another day trip is to the sheep dog trials on Sept. 7, followed by a visit to the Meeker museum for a fee of about $20. There will be more information in the future.

President Bob Noble called for a motion to dismiss at 11:07. Jerry Norton motioned to dismiss and Les Slowik seconded. All were in favor and agreed!

Submitted by,
Suzan Fournier, Secretary


11/9/2022

Pres. Bob Noble called the Nov. 9th meeting to order.
 
Motion to approve minutes from last month was made by John Mead and seconded by Alberta Husch. Minutes were approved by acclimation.
 
Treas. Susan Norton announced we have $1541.00 in checking and $6514.00 in money market. Our checking will increase soon with the dues from the members. Last month’s raffle brought in $60.00. This helps offset the cost of the goodies we have for our meetings.
 
Big thanks to Les Slowik and Tizza Chace for the goodies and coffee. They must have been delicious because they are about gone!
 
Bob recognized 4 folks with birthdays in the month of November. Happy Birthday!
 
Lorraine Zygmunt of Membership committee announced guests Mark and Camille Jochimsen, Dee Ann Gates and Vicki Cursman. The Jochimsens joined as members.
 
Linda Ash of We Care announced one card she sent out to Lily Shanabarger, whose husband Mickey passed away. She is in South Lake Tx 76092. The address to send a card if you would like is 1208 Timber Ct.
 
Carolyn White of the Newsletter and Webmaster duties did have an announcement! Dale Gates has offered to take over the newsletter. There was also an inquiry about a “meet up” group for non-club events such as concerts, and such. If anyone is interested in taking this on as the contact person to coordinate such interest talk to Carolyn. She can steer you in the right direction to get this going.
 
Sue Slaughter, the coordinator once again for our Annual Holiday Party announced it will be on Dec 13th at the Masonic Center. Social hour will begin at 5:45 and dinner served at 6:30. It will be a Little Italy theme with pasta bar, chicken Marsala, meatballs etc. and tiramisu and chocolate mousse for dessert among other foods. The party is catered by Sodexo thru CMU. They will provide set up but Sue needs 4 volunteers to help serve the food and set up the tables and also take down of the tables. Reservations need to be in by Dec 3rd!!! Cost is $30.00 per person which includes the subside amount the Club is providing. Tanya Davis is in charge of the decorations for the tables. If you would like to get your creative mojo going let Tanya know you will be providing a centerpiece. They will be voting on favorite centerpiece.
 
Jerry Norton will provide music again and Les Slowik will be MC. With that combination what could go wrong?
 
Pres. Bob said it is one of the major events for the Club and a great way to meet new people.
 
Since Veterans Day is just a couple days away Bob asked all Veterans to be recognized and thanked them for their service. Thank you all!
 
Les Slowik announced they had 34 folks for the wine tasting. The next one will be in Jan. since the holidays are a busy time. They are looking for suggestions for Spanish wine to pair with tapas.
 
Next week happy hour is at Tiara Rado.
 
Nile Leach of Armchair Travelers said he will be speaker on their trip through Maine for the Dec. 5th presentation. There is no Armchair in Jan.!!!!
 
In January on the 18th there is a Tour and Lunch to the Fruita Visitor Center/CDOT location. Lunch after will be Munchies.
 
Lunch and Tour group will do the Art walk on Main St. next Wed the 16th of Nov. Lois Leach said they will meet in front of the Buffalo on Main St. and end up at Goat and Clover where they will have lunch. If it rains or snows there will NOT be a tour.
 
THERE IS NO LUNCH AND TOUR IN DECEMBER!
 
It was voted on not to have a Club meeting in Dec since it would fall on the day after the Holiday Party. So do NOT show up in Dec. for a Newcomer meeting!!!!
 
Joan Robinson is heading up the Angel Tree again this year. She has a list of children with some “wishes and needs” on their list. If you would like to help a child have a nice Christmas please call Joan. She does have some names left to give you. The gift can be dropped off at Salvation Army or the mall by Dec. 15th.
 
Douglas Grodt said after a few weeks of no hikes they will be meeting tomorrow to hike Rustlers Loop. He hopes to see some yellow cottonwoods if the leaves haven’t blown off!
 
Stan Zygmunt said on Dec. 8th there is a presentation through New Dimensions and the Library on the History of Irrigation Systems in the Valley. Sign up through the libraries website.
 
Susan Norton put in her pitch for Music in Grapevines for an indoor concert that will be happening in Jan. If you are not on Susan’s email list to receive these notices call her or email her to get on the list. Look for announcements about these great concerts that benefit the Art Center.
 
Pres. Bob introduced our speaker - Alicia Wenger who is Exec. Dir. of the Community food Bank. She said the Pantry has been open for 45 years of service. It’s the largest non-profit supplier of food to this area on 28 1/2 rd.
 
There is no qualifications to come through and get food. Their goal is nutritious food. You can shop Mon, Tues and Thurs from 12:30 - 5:00. It is now set up like a grocery store - you take a cart and shop which has improved the dignity of the program and saved on food items that folks don’t want.
 
They have a home delivery program Thurs and Fri am. There are 2 bilingual staff members and they do tastings and healthy recipes on site.
 
67% of the food comes from Food Bank of the Rockies. They get food from the groceries and restaurants which is 25% of their inventory. They spend $17,000 with Rockies. There are 25 routes a week they run collecting the food.
 
They have grown 4 times since 2019 and service 6,000 folks /mo with 80,000 #’s of food.
 
There are USDA experts that help them follow all the guidelines for storage, temperature of food etc. They try to have pet food, some baby and diaper items. Their per meal cost is 23 cents. So monetary donations are helpful as well.
 
100 volunteer slots are open per week to fill. Call or stop by if you are interested. Susan Norton said she volunteers there so if you have any questions she would be glad to talk with you.
 
The raffle was held by Susan Norton and Martha Potyondy.
 
Pres. Bob called for a motion to adjourn. Tanya Davis and Alec Fournier motioned and accepted. Meeting adjourned!
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary
​
10/12/2022
President Bob Noble began the meeting at 10:00 am. We had 54 people in attendance. The minutes from last month’s meeting were approved by acclamation.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton said again, “We have money,” specially $1,578 in checking $6,512 in our money market. Until renewal dues are collected starting in January we will be spending down our checking account money. The treasurer’s report was approved by acclamation.
 
The coffee and pastries prepared by Tizza Chace and Les Slowik were greatly appreciated as usual.
 
Among the October birthdays recognized was that of Susan Norton, turning over a new year today.
 
Jean Greenfield of the membership committee introduced guests Maryann and Loren Benoit, longtime Grand Junction residents, and Les and Colleen Seamans, who arrived here from Salt Lake City in April. Bill and Dale Gates had been to a coffee earlier as visitors and now are members.
 
Linda Ash of “we care” read a card she received from Paula Struckman that acknowledged the card she had sent to Paula on learning of the passing of her husband Keith. Paula and Keith were Newcomers for many years before moving to the East Coast to be closer to family.
 
Carolyn White announced that with the February 2023 issue of the newsletter she would be stepping down as editor. In the next four months she will ready files and documentation for someone else to take over. She stressed, however, that the new editor will be free to make the newsletter his/her own. Carolyn will continue to update the website and directory for a period of time.
 
Special groups reports
 
Sandy Siletto said we would see “bugs in action” at the Oct. 19 tour of the Palisade Insectary. Lunch will follow at 357 Bar and Grill in Palisade.
 
Lois Leach followed with information on the Nov. 16 Lunch and Tour. Sarah Dishong  project coordinator for Downtown Grand Junction, will lead tour of Art on the Corner works on Main Street. This will be a somewhat shorted version of the tour she has done for New Dimensions. Lunch will be at Goat and Clover afterwards. Sign-up will be at the Nov. 9 meeting.
 
Douglas Grodt reminded us that the hiking group is every Thursday, not just once a month. This week they will have an easy hike on the Grand Mesa and will expect to see spectacular color. Contact Doug to get on the list for him to email you.
 
Les said that plans are coming along for a holiday party on Dec. 13. We have the location, another large room here at the Masonic Center. Two different caterers are under consideration, and both will have servers. Experience has shown that buffet service doesn’t work for our group. The committee needs a volunteer to take the lead in table decorations, as well as help in setting up before the party. Contact Les or Sue Slaughter if you can help.
 
Les also spoke about our first wine tasting in many years. It will be at the VENUE by Fisher’s Liquors starting at noon on Oct. 27. Many members have signed up, and Les expects this will be the first of many more.
 
Tanya Davis urged anyone interested in Dinner Club to give her a ring. The first dinner of the season was at Ruth and Larry Anna’s home in September with all dinner club members, and dinners now are in homes with eight at table.
 
Bob read an announcement from Stan Zygmunt of New Dimensions about its free program Midday at New Dimensions. Scott Perrin will present “Reading the Stars—Current Observations on the Universe” at the Central Library at noon tomorrow, Oct. 13.
 
Nile Leach recapped some Armchair Travelers programs. Toni Austin had presented “Where in the World is Singapore” based on her ten visits there to visit grandchildren. Bob Noble will give a talk on a visit to Vietnam and Cambodia on Nov. 7. For the Dec. 5 program Nile will talk about a recent trip to Maine.
 
Other Information
 
Marjorie Demel-Maynard told us about an upcoming art and craft fair at the Palisade American Legion on Oct. 29 from 9 am to 4 pm. All proceeds go to veterans and their families.
 
Ruth Anna reminded us of the Senior Expo at the GJ Convention Center until 2 pm today.
 
Pres Bob introduced our speaker Andreya Krieves, president of the Grand Valley Parks and Recreation Foundation. The foundation started in February 2020 and is a volunteer non-profit organization with three goals:
 
  • Provide community fund-raising for programs and scholarships. For example, GVPARK has raised money toward a sculpture on the Redlands roundabout.
  • Work with Grand Junction Parks and Recreation on big-ticket items that call for grant-writing. Doing this shows that the grand applicant “has skin in the game.”
  • Local fund-raising for scholarships to summer camp, after-school programs and such.
 
Andreya had copies of the Parks and Rec Activity Guide and a flyer on an event on Oct. 15. “Water Lights at Night” will launch water lanterns on the Butterfly Pond at Los Colonias. You can find more information on their website www.gjparf.org.
 
All the items were claimed in the raffle.
 
Before the meeting closed members were urged to think about what role they could play on committees or on the executive board. Bob will not serve again as president, and the other board members will not necessarily serve again. Fresh energy and ideas are welcome.
 
 
 
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 am.
 
Carolyn White, for Suzan Fournier, secretary
​

9/14/2022

Pres. Bob Noble began the meeting at 10:00 am. We had 54 people in attendance. John Mead and Tanya Davis first and seconded last month’s minutes. The group concurred. August minutes were accepted.  
Treas. Susan Norton announced that 108 were signed up for the barbecue and 103 attended. We subsidized $132.00 for the meals. We have $2078.96 in checking, $6512.76 in money market and $87.00 in raffle money which helps to pay for our meeting goodies. Motion was made by Ruth Anna to accept the minutes and David Austin seconded. 
 It was a great Labor Day picnic. Bob said it was a hot day but plenty of water kept everyone well!  
 Pres. Bob recognized all the September birthdays. Happy Birthday everyone! 
 Larrayne Zygmunt of Membership committee announced several new members: 
Beverly Bailey of Pueblo - has been here 2 months! 
Susan Reeves - has been here several years 
Jean Knight - retired teacher 
Nick Durant - been here 3 yrs. From Albuquerque 
Porcia and Cris Silverberg - 6 weeks from Chicago 
Frank and Tracy Louis-Marie 
Jim & Mary Beth Cowie 
Kris & Don Ami 
Jonathon & Caroline Ely 
Vince & Cara Fendel 
Fred & Winona Schwartz 
Welcome all! 
 Linda Ash of “we care” sent out a card to Carol Leche on the passing of her sister.  
Carolyn White of the Newsletter and Webmaster group said the 6-month updated directory will be going out soon. Please look at it and make sure the information is correct. There are no updates on the website. Take a look at it to find the newsletter and other information. 
 Special groups reports: 
 Nile Leach said the 2nd movie club is coming along and will be forming soon. Judy Neste will get that going at next month’s meeting. 
 Armchair Travelers had their first presentation at the library in Sept. The second one will be our own Toni Austin talking about Singapore - a place she has been to 10 times and where her son and his family reside. David Austin said Toni will be able to give you an idea of what life is like living there as a resident and a tourist!  
 
Nile also reminded us a week from today is the Flying Miata tour and then lunch after at the bakery in Palisade. As Pres. Bob told us they are known for doing business around the world with replacement parts for Mazda cars. They can customize anything you want or need! 
 Octobers tour will be to the insectary. They have developed a wasp that will kill the insects that kill the fruit trees and many other things! You can sign up at Oct. meeting.  
 Ruth Anna mentioned to get to the library early for the Armchair travelers presentation. It starts at 6:30 but folks get there by 6 to get their seat and then peruse the library. 
 Suzan Fournier reminded the new members that there is a knitting/crocheting group that will be meeting Monday at Sherwood Park at 1:30 for those interested.  
 Douglas Grodt of the Hiking group will be hiking through a forest tomorrow morning. He is our plant guru and will point out species of flowers, etc. Contact Doug to get on the list for him to email you. 
 Stan Zygmunt of New Dimensions said the new semester begins Oct. 3rd through Nov. 11th. The course catalogue will be out Sept. 19th. There are almost 80 classes and half being new ones! Make sure to look at the catalogue. Some great new items listed!  
 Tanya Davis gladly announced the Dinner Club is back at 40 members! They will have a get together of all members at Larry and Ruth Annas home this Sat. Then they will meet monthly in smaller groups at individual homes. This is a great way to really get to know folks in a more intimate setting and enjoy some great drinks and food!  
 Pres Bob introduced our speaker Kristi Knowles who is a fraud specialist with the GJ police department.  
* More than 3.5 million older adults are victims of financial exploitation each year.
​

* Seniors targeted by fraudsters suffer an average loss of $34,200. 
* Here are some resources to look up to get educated about fraud: 
stopfraudcolorado.gov 
FTC.GOV 
IC3.GOV 
SSA.GOV (this will show you if your soc. Sec is being used by others) 
OnGuardOnline.gov 
www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/frad 
 
This was a very enlightening presentation and a good reminder of what not to do! 
 
The raffle was held by Les Slowik and Carolyn White and goodies were given out. 
 
Les Slowik made a motion to adjourn at 11:15. Everyone concurred. Another meeting adjourned! 
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary 

8/10/2022

2nd Vice President Nile Leach called the meeting to order at 10 am on Aug. 10, 2022.
 
Janice Shepherd and Jerry Norton made 1st and 2nd motion to accept the minutes from the last meeting. Everyone concurred.
 
Nile asked Susan Norton if we had money and she responded with a resounding “YES” we have money! We actually have $2569 in checking
account, $6512 in money market and a huge $91.00 from a great raffle! Jerry Norton made a motion to accept the Treasurers report and Tanya Davis seconded. Treasurers report was accepted.
 
Nile was going to ask Carolyn White the report on Web and Newsletter but she is traveling, so Susan Norton said “everything is good” in Carolyn’s place!
 
Nile recognized our hardworking coffee and pastry committee which is Les Slowik and Tizza Chace. Another yummy social time for the Newcomers.
 
August birthdays were recognized and there were many! Happy Birthday!
 
Larrayne Zygmunt of Membership Committee welcomed several new visitors. We also have new members Erin and Terry Gabreath. Welcome all!
 
Linda Ash of the “we care” committee did send out 2 cards this month. One was to Ingrid Leland who had hip surgery and to Ann Bradley’s family on her passing. She was a long time Newcomer.

Kenny Alevy reminded us of the Labor Day picnic at Canyonview Park at the Pavilion. It is on Sept. 5th at 5:00. They will service from 5:30 to 6:00 pm. It is $12.50 for Newcomers and $15.00 for guests. Have Cooker Will Travel is the provider for our meal – chicken and beef main meats. There is a vegetarian option if you need. Newcomers will be providing the water, and silverware for the meal. If you want to bring alcoholic beverages make sure there is no glass and you are discreet. You can also bring some nuts or goodies to share beforehand. This is a great time to meet new folks and catch up with others.
 
Nile Leach of Armchair Travelers let us know Sept 12th a gal from Eureka math and science, Christina Lead will be doing a presentation at the library about her 4 months abroad during covid in the Balkan Islands and Columbia. This should be a very good presentation.
 
Stan Zygmunt of New Dimensions also mentioned the hour-long presentation at the library on Aug. 11th regarding the topic “supreme court - a political entity or not?” The speaker was a lawyer for 44 years and has appeared before the Supreme Court. The fall term is coming up on Oct 3rd thru 11/11. There are 70 courses of which 40 are new!
 
Miriam Singer announced the Brazilian Bossanova at the Avalon on Sept. 14th. It is called “an evening in Rio.” It will have wonderful lively music and great musical performances. Her deceased husband helped work on this event.
 
Karen Huber will be leading the lunch and tour group on Sept. 17th at 10:30 am at Moon Farm. Karen is a volunteer for the Equine Leaning Center there. She will show you where the horses are stabled and other animals. Please wear close toed shoes. Her disabled grandson has grown so much through this center not only with posture but mental wellbeing. Afterword they will go to Munchies in Fruita for lunch.
 
Septembers tour will be the Flyin’ Miata.
 
Doug Grodt of our Hiking Club is leading the hike on Thursday through Crag Crest on the Mesa. It will be a two-hour hike. He will point out the pika which live in the crevices and have to store 50#’s of flowers to make it through the wintertime. Doug is now requesting reservations so they can leave on time when they know everyone is there. They meet at Coronado Shopping Center at 8:45 am in Clifton.
 
New Chairwoman of Dinner Club is Tanya Davis. She would like to welcome new folks to the monthly dinner group. This is a wonderful way to make new friends in a much smaller group. They meet on Fridays and the groups are generally 6-8 folks. Sept. meeting will be their kickoff dinner at Ruth and Larry Annas home. Let Tanya know if you want to join.
 
Nile announced that after many years of faithful service as President Bob Noble has decided to step down next year. The Board is forming a search committee to talk with folks who might be interested in this position. The Club bylaws are on the back table if you would like to see them or you can find them on our website. If you have any questions or interest in this position please see a board member. We have so many wonderful new members from all walks of interesting backgrounds. This is a great way to refresh the club and keep us moving forward.
 
Our guest speaker today is Megan Eckert who is the HR Director for Riverside Educational Center. It is a nonprofit tutorial program currently at 9 schools in Grand Junction. It is for kids not only for academic success but enrichment programs as well. The hours are usually 2-6 pm after school. It is 4 days/ week. Typically it is for children that are low income, IEP, need social interaction or a safe place to go after school. They usually have 10 kids or less in a class.
Jana Delcamp is a tutor there (she is in Newcomers) and spoke about their needs as well. She would LOVE to have a volunteer for her group at Chatfield Elementary. They also have paid positions open as well. She spoke how the kids love to be read to and love to read as well. It’s a very rewarding position with lots of children who appreciate being there. See Jana if you are interested or call the Center.
 
Susan Norton held the raffle for all the goodies to give away.
 
Nile called for motion to dismiss - Alec Fournier made a motion and Don Leche seconded. Meeting adjourned at 11:05!
 
Good job Nile!
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary

7/13/2022

Pres. Bob Noble started the meeting at 10 am. We have 71 people in attendance.
 
The June 8 minutes were accepted as published in the July newsletter.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton reported $2,555  in checking and $6512 in the money market account. Last month’s raffle and concert ticket auction brought in $69. Her report was accepted by acclamation.
 
Bob recognized the coffee committee of Tizza Chace and Les Slowik, who consistently arrive early to prepare coffee and set out the selection of pastries that Tizza bakes.
 
Only two members admitted to having July birthdays.
 
In a departure from the usual agenda, Bob ceded the microphone to our guest speaker, Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubenstein. This was to assure that he would have ample time for what was a very interesting presentation.
 
He introduced himself as, “I’m your lawyer,” and “I have the greatest job there is.” His job is not just to prosecute cases, but to determine which cases to prosecute, what bond should be set, and when might diversion work.
 
Regarding plea bargains, his office has the lowest percentage in the state. He discussed why plea bargains may be in the best interests of all parties involved.
 
For decisions on bond, whether personal recognizance or cash bond, consideration is given to high/low risk (as with a drug offender) and high/low stakes (as with a child sex offender).
 
His office also actively works in diversion programs, such as Lighthouse for kids who are chronic truants. This is a joint program with the DA’s office, D51, Partners and CMU.
 
A lively Q&A session followed his talk.
 
Larrayne Zygmunt of Membership committee introduced guests Dale and Bill Gates, who are in the process of moving from Oregon  John Miller, a long-ago Newcomers member, was there with his son Mark Miller. Mary and Dennis Dingman, who joined earlier this year, were attending as their first meeting.
 
Linda Ash said she did not send out any cards this month to members who were ill or otherwise needed a cheering note. But former member Ann Bradley passed away on July 10. Ann was 93 years old.
 
Carolyn White said she had nothing new on either the newsletter or the website.
 
Plans are underway for the Labor Day BBQ. We will use the same caterer as last year, and the cost of food will remain the same. After the board decides on how much the club will subsidize the event, emails with details will be sent out. Sign-ups and payments will start at the next meeting, August 10.
 
Becky Chesnut gave Bob a summary of Armchair Travelers plans. The first presentation will be on Sept. 12 by Christina Lee, education director of Eureka!. She will talk about her four-month trip that took her from the Balkans to South Africa to Colombia. The committee has lined up presenters for seven of eight months; May is yet to be filled.
 
Carl Zimmerman said people could still sign up for the Lunch and Tour on July 20. For the tour of the Food Bank of the Rockies in Palisade, attendees should wear closed-toe shoes only.
 
The planned tour in August of Reynolds Polymer Technology has fallen through. However, Linda Zimmerman said we visit the Grand Valley Equine Assisted Learning Program at the Moon Farm. Bring water and dress for the weather. Lunch will follow at Munchies in Fruita.
 
Patti Luscombe Zapf urged us to sign up of any of the many events of the Western Colorado Senior Games, August 22 – 28. Information is available of the GJ Parks and Recreation website.
 
Stan Zimmerman announced a second Midday with New Dimensions lecture at the Central Library. On Aug. 11, Glenn Whitaker will present “U.S. Supreme Court – Impartial Umpire or Political Entity.” Because seating is limited, reserve a spot on the library’s evens page or call.
 
The dinner club will start up again in September. Tanya Davis said, “If you like to have fun and eat” this group is for you.
 
Douglas Grodt is leading Thursday hikes on the Grand Mesa now that temperatures are soaring. Hikers will be on the Skyway area tomorrow and expect to see plenty of wildflowers. Let him know if you’d like to be added to the email list to learn of hikes.
 
Ginnie Baikewicz told us of music every night at Bailey’s in the Grand Vista on Horizon Drive, from 5 to 8 pm. You can pick up a schedule of bands in the hotel.
 
We had a good selection of raffle items and ticket sales were brisk. Two tickets to the July 19 Music in the Grapevines concert went at a bargain $20.
 
Meeting adjourned at 11:15 am.
 
Carolyn White, for Suzan Fournier, secretary

6/8/2022

​Pres. Bob Noble started the meeting at 10 am.
 
Ruth Anna made a motion to accept the minutes as published from May and Tanya Davis concurred. Minutes accepted.
 
Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report. We have $2493.93 in checking, $6512.04 in money market and $30.00 in raffle. The Treasurers report was accepted by Nancy Hollmaier and Alec Fournier.
 
Larrayne Zygmunt of Membership committee announced our new members. They are Bob & Nancy Wirtanen from Farmington, Kim Briggs from Pueblo. Welcome all!
 
Pres Bob let us know that Jack Wheeler passed away about 3 weeks ago. A card has been sent out to Kathy his wife.
 
As always thanks to Les Slowik and Tizza Chace for some fantastic goodies! Where does she get these recipes?
 
Carolyn White, our webmaster and newsletter editor said there was nothing new to report on these items
 
Nile Leach of Armchair Travelers said the next year’s season is all set and ready to go in Sept! It runs through May except for a short hiatus in December.
 
Douglas Grodt who is our Hiking guru reminded us of the hike on the Mesa for the following day. He has been up there, says it is beautiful, no crowds, no mosquitos yet and should be a nice hike. They will meet at Coronado shopping center in Clifton and carpool up to the Mesa.
 
Nile Leach of Movie Club said he is continuing to get names for another movie club since the current one is at maximum capacity. Let him know if you would like to be added to the list.
 
Nile of Lunch and Tour (NIle you are a busy guy!) said the signup sheet were out for the upcoming tour of the Board of Elections on June 22 at 10:30. They will meet up about 10:15. Please remember to bring your ID. Lunch after will be at the Goat and Clover Tavern. Currently the tour is at maximum, however if interested put your name down. He might be able to get more folks in.
 
Linda Zimmerman also of Lunch and Tour informed us of the July 20th tour to the Food Bank of the Rockies in Palisade then off to lunch at Palisade Brewery. There is a limit of 25 and you can sign up at the July meeting.
 
Nancy Hollmaier of the Mah Jongg club said the club is now able to go back to the Pavilion. They do have to be out of there by 11:30 for the workers to eat lunch. They start at 10 am. There are folks there of all abilities so let her know if you are interested.
 
Ruth Anna announced, “she is not moving!” However she did her kids symphony seats so now she is selling some tickets she had. The only one left is for Oct. 16th at 3 pm. It is row 7 and the tickets are $75.00 for 2 seats. Let her know if interested.
 
Tanya Davis of the Dinner Club said they knew committee will be meeting at the end of the month to restructure some things for the club. It is a great way to meet new people on a more personal basis, enjoy some food and drinks and socialize.
 
Pres Bob announced our speaker for the day. Ashton Peternaus is with the Atomic Legacy cabin. A few bullet points she shared with us:
*. The Manhattan Project was developed in 3 areas - Hanford, WA, VA and Oak Ridge TN
*. They were testing the world’s first nuclear reactor underground at the University of Chicago
*. Grand Junction was involved in the production of Uranium
*. Atomic Energy Commission started after WWII to continue devoting uranium for stockpiles
*. The government was subsidizing this effort which caused prospectors and others in the “uranium boom”
*. The Atomic Age started after that and even had a “Miss Atomic Energy” contest - the prize being a 1-ton uranium ore which she sold back to the government
*. Atomic energy toys were created - fireballs, comics such as Amazing Hulk, Spiderman and Godzilla
*. in the 50’s private businesses were processing uranium such as Climax Uranium Mill
*. Las Colonias Park also had a mill which closed in the 70’s. Dept. of Energy did a “clean up” of 4000 properties in Grand Junction. This ended about 1998.
*. The Legacy Cabin is on the national registry and now a museum you can tour. It continues to look after these sites and monitor our water etc.
 
Thank you for a wonderful presentation! Make sure you tour this cabin in Orchard Mesa if you get a chance.
 
The raffle was held, followed by an auction of two tickets to the June 22 Music in the Grapevines concert. Nile Leach outbid himself for those.
 
The meeting was concluded at 11 am.
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary
 

5/11/2022

Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am.
 
Ruth Anna made a motion to accept the minutes from last month and Tanya Davis concurred. Minutes were accepted by the group.
 
Treas. Susan Norton was not present at the meeting so Bob announced our financial situation. We currently have $2884.93 in checking, $6561.93 in money market and made $30.00 in the raffle. Bob said, “we have money!” He asked for a motion to accept the Treas. Report. John Mead made the motion and Alec Fournier 2nd the motion. Treasurers report was accepted.
 
Pres. Bob thanked Larry and Ruth Anna for getting everything set up for snacks and coffee. He thanked Tanya Davis for the wonderful goodies. Thanks to everyone!
 
Jean Greenfield of the Membership Committee announced a new member Debbie Marker. She moved here from most recently Las Vegas. Welcome!
 
We had Tim and Carol as visitors. They moved here from Washington. Tim said he was a paramedic/firefighter and most recently a nurse. Glad you visited!
 
Linda Ash of the We Care group said she sent out one card to Don Trowbridge to get well. Otherwise the group seems to be doing well.
 
Bob said Carolyn White was not at meeting but she said the newsletter and website had no new updates. Thanks for the recent new directory Carolyn and get better!
 
Stan Zygmunt of New Dimensions announced they will be offering a free one-hour class every other month on the 2nd Thursday of the month at the library. The June 7th lecture will be on the history of the national parks. You can go to the library website to register for that one. The next lecture will be someone from CMU.
 
Nile Leach said Movie Club was at capacity so he has been taking names of folks interested in adding another Movie Club group. When that group reaches 10 folks he will help get that group organized. You can contact John and Judy Neste for more information as well.
 
Nile updated us on Armchair Travelers that will start up again in Sept. They have all the months filled except May of 2023. If you know of someone that wants to share their travels let him know. Also if that month didn’t work out some of the folks are flexible so be aware of that.
 
Martha Potyondy reminded everyone of the next lunch and tour on May 18th. It will be at the CSU extension which is now called Research Station. It is at 31 3/4 rd and D 1/2 rd in Orchard Mesa. They will meet there at 9:30 and learn about the important work they do growing food. A lot of it goes to our local food banks. Afterword lunch will be at Las Marias. Contact Martha if interested.
 
Lois Leach let us know that on June 22nd, they will be touring the Mesa County Election Office. They will be meeting there at 10:30. Be prepared to show ID for secure areas and be enlightened on our election process. Lunch after will be at Goat and Clover.
 
Douglas Grodt is our Hiking guide for tomorrow at Echo Canyon in the Colorado National Monument. It should be about a 2-hr. hike with a slight climb of elevation.
 
Pres. Bob announced our speaker for today. It is Chuck McDaniel, who is Pres. Of City Council and known as our Mayor. There were many interesting things he told us so I am going to bullet point them.
 
*           GJ is a home rule city - power to adopt its own rules & regs which started in 1909
*           City mgr. is CEO of the city. Council makes the policies and staff carries those out.
*           City council has 7 members - there are 5 districts and 2 at -large. They are elected by voters and serve for 4 years.
*           Strategic priorities for 2021-2023 are:
Transportation & infrastructure, Economic Development, Housing, Public Safety and Quality of Life (which is parks & rec, community health, community center)
*           Marijuana Licensing - voters approved 4/21 election. Sales tax is 6%. Only 10 licenses are allowed.
*           Community center - survey showed residents largely supported building indoor Rec center, preference was for Matchett park
*           City got 10.4 million from the government to help fund projects.
*           Orchard Mesa pool will start getting renovation and brought up to date
*           24 & G rd. - creating new bridge which will have pedestrian underpass. That work will start in fall and probably last at least a year.
*           Bonsai biplane has gotten a location and set to finish that in early fall.
*           City has significant water resources for drinking water. Some water rights are in the rivers and haven’t been utilized yet.
 
            There were many great questions asked and answered. It was a good presentation about our Council.
 
Ruth Anna offered some of their symphony tickets for the upcoming year. Ruth said the tickets are $37.50 each and are on Sundays at 3:00. Get with her if you are interested.
 
The last concert for the season was at the Methodist church on White Ave. It is a 45 min . Concert and is free.
 
Pres. Bob asked for a motion to adjourn. Alec Fournier made the motion and Ruth Anna concurred. The group accepted the motion.
 
Meeting adjourned at 11 am!
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Minutes

9/9/2020

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4/13/2022

Pres. Bob Noble brought the meeting to order at 10 am sharp. Suzan Fournier and Jerry Norton accepted the minutes from last month. Minutes were accepted by acclimation.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton announced, “we have money!” There is $2854.00 in checking, $6562.00 in money market and last month’s raffle was $29.00 which is Tizza Chace’s fun money for baking! She let us know that there are summer concert tickets on the desk for the Art Centers summer concert series at Two Rivers Winery. Alec Fournier and Susan (and others) accepted the Treasurers report. Accepted by all.
 
Pres Bob thanked the coffee committee Les Slowik and Tizza. As usual yummy and very spring looking cookies! Thanks!
 
Bob acknowledged April Birthdays. Happy Birthday all!
 
Jean Greenfield of the Membership Committee announced our new members. They are Mary and Dennis Dingman and Ron and Paula Shaffer. Welcome! We also had 2 visitors!
 
Linda Ash of “we care” had only one card to send out! That went to Ruth Anna for a partial knee replacement. Heal quickly Ruth! Linda said it was great we are all staying so healthy.
 
Carolyn White, webmaster and newsletter editor said there were no changes for those. However she will be getting out a new directory soon. Make sure you check to see if there are any corrections for her when you get it.
 
Pres Bob said Ken Alevy is working on our summer barbecue. There may be a change in food vendor. Thanks Ken! It’s always a good time to chat with everyone.
 
Nile Leach reported on the status of Armchair Travelers which is a great program with the library. Folks who have traveled and want to share their experiences talk about where they have been along with pictures. Nile said they have 8 events set up for 2022-2023 Season. There are 6 presenters so far. If you know anyone who wants to share their travels let him or Becky Chesnut know. Becky spoke too reiterating to let them know the name of anyone that might be a possibility for this.
 
Martha Potyondy announced the May Lunch N Tour is a visit to CSU extension farm and their fields and orchards. Food from there goes to the food pantry which is most helpful for our valley. It will be May 18th meeting at 9:30 am followed by lunch at Las Marias. They can have 30 people on this tour. Get with them if you have any questions.
 
Doug Grodt, our plant master guru, reminded us of the April 27th plant walk on the National Monument. He will point out the local spring vegetation along the way. Lunch after will be at EC’s Asian Station. Tomorrow there is an easy sidewalk tour from lunch loop to Broadway toward the art works along the bridge.
 
Larry Anna informed us of Mesa County Planning Partners starting a project for a 10 year county master plan. They will be updating land use, regulations, zoning codes, telecommunications, energy policies etc. The county wants our input. You can go online and fill out the survey! Contact Larry with any questions you may have.
 
Stan Zygmunt who is our local New Dimensions “go to guy” told us he had a meeting at his garage shop and offered lots of information on planes, simulators etc. He wanted to know if anyone had any interest in this. Please get a hold of Stan if you are interested. He can fill you in on everything that is available.
 
Our speaker today was Mary Hughes from the Colorado West Land Trust. It has been in Mesa county for over 40 years. It was formed to protect land and now they include recreational land and animals. In 2017 they merged with Montrose Land Trust. They now have 7 counties they oversee and 126,000 acres that are protected. Mesa County raises 80% of the peaches for the state. There is 7.7 million in the wine and peach industry and 150 million in economy for fruit and tourism for our area. Ranching is still a big part too. There are 5 scenic byways that run thru our area. There are 91 miles of stream and water corridors. There are a couple of areas that are preserve areas for public use: 3 Sisters, Arnett property and Snooks Bottom.
 
She mentioned they can set up small groups to tour areas and find out more information. They are happy to answer questions. They can take you out to lunch loop area to show you what they have accomplished. There is a hike in October at an Indian reservation in Montrose that is interesting.
 
They are a nonprofit business and get grants from different places. 20% of funding comes from individual and local businesses.
 
Alberta Husch announced that at 12:15 at the Methodist Church there is a concert with a flutist, harp and baritone. It is free and a wonderful series Oct thru May.
 
At precisely 11 am Bob asked for a motion to adjourn. John Mead and Alec Fournier motioned for adjournment. It was accepted by acclimation!
 
Adjourned!

3/9/2022

​Pres. Bob Noble opened the meeting to ask for approval for the minutes from last month. Alberta Husch made a motion to approve and Susan Norton concurred.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton made the announcement “we have money!” We have $3417.78 in checking and $6561.72 in money market and $61.00 from the raffle. That’s important because it pays for the  groceries for Tizza Chace to make our goodies! Janice Shepard approved the motion for the Treasurers report to be accepted.
 
Today our speaker was Robin Brown, CEO of Colorado University Foundation and Vice President of Development. I will give bullet points of her speech which was very informative:
  • currently 11,000 students
  • School has endowment of 50 million for 1300 scholarships. Over 1/2 of those are 1st   generation.
  • They haven’t raised tuition for several years, but this year they are still in discussion if  they will be raising tuition.
  • Their capital priority right now is replacement of Robinson Theatre. It is a $60 million  project. The theatre is very old and needs a lot of attention.
  • The new President John Marshall did a survey with teachers and staff and had a lot of great  responses. One that hit home was the school did not feel innovative to them. They are working on that as well.
  • Looking at putting in some new opportunities for students such as an assisted living on  campus, gerontology center possible. All this would help the medical folks such as nursing assistants, medical assistants, etc. They contract out the management part and give the students for on-site learning to work.
  • The Hotel Maverick is part of campus and culinary/hotel students are working there.
  • CMU is an athletic D2 school. They have the highest per capita of D2 athletics.
  • Classes are 30 or less.
  • There is a Mesa scholarship committee that is working on publicizing more the fact they are working on growing from a $5 million endowment to a $10 million endowment for scholarships. This means that even lower middle-class students could get a scholarship.
 
It was a very enlightening speech from Robin. Thank you!
 
Pres. Bob thanked Les Slowik and Tizza for the usual wonderful pastries and goodies and coffee! Thank you!
 
Bob also acknowledged March birthdays and especially a “well aged” 90 to Wayne Westerson.
 
Larrayne Zygmunt of the Membership Committee introduced our new members, Paula and  Bob Schafer of Lakewood. They have been here 3.5 years. Janet Nelson of Eaton, Co recently moved here for family.
 
Linda Ash of the “we Care” committee said she sent out 2 cards. One was Jana Delcamp for surgery and Mary Beth Davis for foot surgery.
 
Doug Grodt of the Hiking Group reminded folks of the Riverfront Trail hike for tomorrow. They  will  meet at the Blue Heron boat ramp. Doug also reminded us of the tour next month for National Monument. He is a Colorado native plant master and will discuss the spring plants you will be seeing.
 
Linda Zimmerman of the Lunch and Tour group said there are still sign-ups for the Sheriffs  Dept. Lunch will be at Las Marias afterward.
 
Nile Leach of Armchair Traveler group let us know that they will start back up in Sept. at the library. In Sept. it will start the 2nd Monday of the month due to Labor Day but the usual day is  the first Monday of the month. He and Becky Chesnut have worked very hard to get this together. It is a wonderful program. Nile said they will have a full calendar confirmed very soon.
 
Pres. Bob said Ruth Anna wants everyone to know about the noon music at the Methodist Church. This afternoon is flute music and it is free!
 
Pres. Bob also apologized for that past happy hour. Many more folks attended than the usual amount which created service issues. The problem was not the restaurant’s. They were prepared for the number he had given them, but that was much lower than the outcome.
 
Pres. Bob said this was the time of year for Board elections. Due to the fact no one was  running opposed, the current Board stands for another year as is.
 
Susan Norton held the raffle for the goodies.
 
Pres. Bob Noble asked for a motion to dismiss. Larry Anna made a motion to dismiss and   Tanya Davis agreed!
 
Dismissed!
Suzan Fournier, secretary
 

2/9/2022

​Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am sharp. A motion was made by Jerry Norton to approve the minutes from last month and Alberta Husch concurred. Minutes were accepted by the group.
 
Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report. We doubled our interest to .02 in the checking account for a total of $2706. Money market had .11 interest for a total of $6561.62. Last month’s raffle was a weak $27.00. A motion was made by Les Slowik to accept the Treasurer report and Diana Mead seconded that motion. The report was accepted by the club.
 
Pres Bob extended a Happy Birthday to all the Feb. birthday folks. He also thanked Les and Tizza Chace for the usual wonderful goodies and hot coffee. Thanks again!
 
We have one new member in attendance - Karen Dreher from Denver. She has a new grandson born here and decided to move to be closer. She used to be a neonatal nurse. We also want to welcome Rhonda and Doug Adams to the club. Welcome all!
 
Linda Ash of the ‘we care” committee had great news. She didn’t have to send out any get well or condolence cards this past month. However we just found out Jean Greenfield broke her thumb. Jean said not to send her a card she is fine and skiing tomorrow!
 
Carolyn White, webmaster and newsletter editor let us know she has refreshed the page for activity son the website. There is a button you can click on to inform you in more detail about club activities. The information was collected by Ruth Anna. Thank you to you both for the all the effort put into this!
 
Pres Bob informed us those armchair travelers will resume in Sept. They do plan on getting that up and running again.
 
Hiking guru and plant specialist Doug Grodt has his hiking group meeting tomorrow along the river near Clifton. It is a 2-hour easy hike. They meet in Coronado plaza at 8:45.
 
Pres Bob once again reminded us of board elections coming up next month. Sadly enough no one threw their name in the hat to run for one of the positions. For the health of the club it is wise to have new blood in board positions to bring new perspective and ideas. There still is time to let Bob know if you have an interest or questions about the positions and what they entail.
 
Ruth Anna reminded us of the wonderful music that is free following our meeting at 12:15 at the Methodist Church on White Ave. It is free and runs for about 45 minutes.
 
Our speaker for the day is Lee Borden, Executive Director of the Art Center. It was a very informative lecture on the history of the art center and all they contribute to our community. Some of the highlights were:
started in 1922
incorporated in 1953
Became a nonprofit in 1957
Many “newcomers” were members of art center in 1944 and started painting there
1961 - Built new art center. D51 had a “buy a brick program” for .25!
1970 - First part opened
1980. local doctor gave American Indian rugs and Rotary matched that with $100,000 to showcase his collection
1983 - the gift center and north gallery were planned and built in 1990
7 full time staff and 25 contract employees. They also have the largest volunteer Art Center Guild of 53 members.
1984 - Art on the Corner was conceived
2 years ago Jack Kephart passed away and an anonymous donor (his wife) donated $300,000 for a gallery in his name. That took 2 years to make the money to build it. They also found out during this construction that the sprinkler system was not up to code, so that had to be retrofitted. They are planning on new carpet, signage etc. That project is $725,000,
They do about 35 shows a year and offer classes all year round. They offer concerts and plays there as well.
They have about 750-1200 members now.
Next month local and high school students will be having a show. The Kephart gallery is opening in April.
They also put on 5 outdoor concerts at Two Rivers winery starting in May.
Tuesdays are free to visit the art center. Otherwise it is $3.00 to visit.
They have 556 pieces stored there in the permanent collection worth a cool $1.2 million.
 
Thank you Lee for your visit and information!!!
 
Lunch and tour group leader, Carl Zimmerman informed us of no Feb. tour. They were going to Dept. of Agricultural Insectary but they cancelled. March 16th there will be a tour to the Sheriff’s dept. Lunch after will be at Las Marias. April tour will be on the Colorado National monument with Doug Grodt talking about the native plants.
 
Bill Roberts told us about this Saturday night at the Mesa Skyway Trailhead there will be a bonfire from 6 to 8 pm. A full moon is promised. There will be folks snowshoeing and cross country. Come to enjoy the evening.
 
Susan Norton and Les Slowik held a very popular raffle with lots of goodies.
 
Pres Bob asked for a motion to dismiss. Sue Slaughter made the motion and Alec Fournier concurred. The group agreed wholeheartedly!
 
Dismissed !
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary
 

1/12/2022

​Pres. Bob Noble called Newcomers meeting to order. He asked for a motion to approve last    month’s notes. John Mead made a motion to approve and Tanya Davis concurred. Meeting notes were approved!
 
Susan Norton, Treasurer gave us the update on our money! We have $1640 in checking with .01 interest and $6571.40 in money market with .11 interest! Last month’s raffle was huge  earning us $75.00! Heehaw!
 
Our rent is paid for the next 3 months for our meetings. There is nothing else to report.
 
Janice Shepherd accepted the Treasurers report and Diana Mead seconded that motion. Report approved.
 
Pres Bob thanked Tanya Davis for the wonderful goodies. Larry Anna was a big help with the lugging of the water and different items for our coffee. Ruth Anna oversaw quality control. Thanks to everyone for your help!
 
Happy Birthday to all Jan. birthdays! Wayne Westerson has a birthday today!
 
New members introduced themselves today. They are Kris Mitchell from Carbondale who moved here to get away from snow and cold 2 months ago! Dee Sapper is new. Nancy McGuire has been here 5 years and is very involved in the astronomy club. She is from New  Jersey.
 
Linda Ash from the We Care committee of one sent out 3 cards this month. John Moore passed away in Nov., Helaine Cohen who had moved to Scottsdale passed away and Peggy  Pretti broke her arm. She is at Center at Foresight for a couple of weeks.
 
Carolyn White, committee of one, reported nothing new for the web page or newsletter.
 
Carl Zimmerman of Lunch and Tours group said he has had some cancellations of future tours      due to increase of covid. The library tour on Jan. 26th will still be happening. Get with Nile Leach if interested in touring.
 
Pres. Bob Noble said Becky Chesnut and Nile Leach have offered to co-chair that committee. Bob contacted the library but has not heard back from the person at the library in charge of this. He suggested it may not be doable until April or May.
 
Nancy McGuire was interested in a board game group. If interested contact her or Bob for    more information. Nancy will be the coordinator for that group.
 
Pres. Bob reminded us elections are coming up in March. All positions are available to be filled. Again, it's not an indication that you think someone is doing a bad job if you put your name in the hat. It’s good for the club to bring in new blood and new perspectives! Contact         Bob today and put your name in the hat !  
 
Our guest speaker today is Johanna Van Waveren who is the co-director for the Colorado National Monument assoc.. She moved here in 2015 from New Orleans. She started out as seasonal park ranger doing hikes, geology of the area etc. We thank John Otto for advocating for the park to become protected for all the people to enjoy. Rim Rock drive is a 23-mile road through  the monument. There are over 65 miles of trail. Entrance fees goes to different regions. They must apply for it for projects. They are restoring a big amphitheater for education, symphony perhaps etc. It should be done by end of year. There is also the Junior Range r program. It is a great program for kids.
 
The gift shop raises a lot of money for the park and promotes local artists etc. You can become a member for very little and enjoy some perks such as a quarterly newsletter, 15% off in gift store and some hikes etc. They have considered adding another visitor center on the east side of the park. Larry Anna suggested some trails need better markings. Johanna said there is a $37,000 funding for the “social trials” that have been made by folks going off trail and   confusing folks.
 
It was a good talk with great information.
 
Pres. Bob moved on to the popular raffle. Susan Norton said that if 2 people come up with the  same number they can fight it out. It is on the honor system!
 
Doug Grodt from the hiking club reminded us there is a hike at 9 the next day meeting at the Redlands boat ramp. The hike will be along the river.
 
Janice Shephard spoke up about a library survey. They are taking suggestions on the future of  the library and in what we are interested.
 
Tanya Davis told everyone to take some leftover food home.
 
Pres. Bob asked for a motion to dismiss. Susan Norton made the motion and Terry Adcock concurred.
 
Meeting dismissed at 11 am!
 
Suzan Fournier, secretary

12/8/2021

​Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am.
 
Last month’s meeting minutes were approved by Ruth Anna and Tanya Davis.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave the update on our money. We have $1007.00 in checking and $6561.00 in money market. We earned a big $.11 in interest! Whoop! January is renewal time for membership. It is $25.00 per couple and $15.00 for single. If you are a new member in 2021 you do NOT have to pay in 2022. The group was not really meeting and doing much so you are off the hook! Our raffle last month brought in $69.00 which is one of the highest raffles.
 
Jerry Norton made a motion to accept the Treasurers report and Becky Chesnut seconded. Report accepted.
 
Les Slowik and Tizza Chace, thanks for all you do on the goodies and coffee set up! They will not be here in Jan. so we will need some donations for goodies and help with the coffee. Let Bob know if you can bring something. Tanya Davis said she could bring some treats.
 
Pres. Bob said we have about 70 folks in attendance. Our attendance is good! We have lots of new members.
 
New members: Sharon Lovell and Larry Regnier are returning as members; Roy and Jody Orback and John Lorentzen are new members. Welcome all! Glad to have you.
 
Linda Ash of the “we care” group of one sent out a card to Wayne McCalla who had an infection in his hip but is recovering. If you know of anyone that needs a card for illness or to boost spirits let Linda know.
 
Debra Newlin informed she needs more folks in bowling! 9 men and 4 women came to the last event. They meet on Fridays at 9:15 and get started by 9:30. They bowl 3 games. Meet up is at Orchard Mesa lanes. Tanya Davis even sometimes brings treats so come, bowl and meet some new folks!
 
Tanya Davis is on the Dinner club committee. It is a wonderful way to get to know folks on a more personal level. They meet at 3 homes, enjoy good food and drinks and socialize. Let her know if you want more information. The more the merrier!
 
Doug Grodt let us know since there is no snow on the Mesa (although as I am typing this it snowed up there last night quite a bit) he has cancelled snowshoeing. Also there is no hiking tomorrow since we are to have rain in the valley. Hallelujah we can use the rain! (I said that not Doug). If you want any information on this group let Doug know to add you to his list.
 
Pres Bob reminded us of needing some leaders for Armchair Travelers. This is a wonderful collaboration with the library to bring in presenters monthly on any traveling they have done. It has been very popular in the past. Suzan Fournier spoke up and asked folks to raise their hand if they have an interest and lo and behold Becky Chesnut and Nile Leach raised their hands!!!! We just might have a committee of 2 for Armchair Travelers. Hooray! Bob will get with them to go over the demands of the job. Thank you both!
 
Bob asked Alberta Husch to please stand. Alberta is the one you can talk with to get a name badge if you want one. Alberta did say they are now $10.00 and takes a month to get it back. She is in the directory.
 
Stan Zygmunt filled in for our speaker that didn’t show up and reviewed the benefits of New Dimensions. It is a nonprofit organization that offers 70-80 classes a term. There is a new term coming up. It is $75.00 for the term for as many classes as you would like to attend. Some of the classes coming up are driving geology tour of Colorado Monument, Peachtree Distillery tour, genealogy class, Zoom class on the atomic legacy cabin in Orchard Mesa, class on what gaffers do in the movie industry and how to make your home less appealing to criminals! Go to newdimensionsgj.org to find out more info on this great program.
 
Monica Nivala announced she was having withdrawals from not playing pinochle. Please give her a call if interested. You only need 4 players to start a table. She is glad to host at her home.
 
Bruce Williams updated us on no downhill skiing right now due to low snow conditions. However he needs more folks to sign up! It’s more fun to have someone to yak with on the chairlift to the top!
 
Ruth Anna kindly reminded us of the music at 12:15 after our newcomers meetings at the Methodist Church. Today is a jazz pianist. It is free and wonderful talent. On Jan. 12th it is a clarinet and piano soloist. Oh! And soon it will be her and Larry’s 50th Anniversary! Congrats to you both and an extra kudo to Larry for hanging in there! (We will know if Ruth reads these newsletters now.)
 
ELECTION TIME SOON! Elections are coming up in March and the new board will start fresh in April. In the past the board has been in a noncompete situation but it is time for new blood as Pres. Bob said. New ideas, new backgrounds from folks keep a group fresh and lively! We have so many new members as well as our older members that have a lot to contribute. Please let Bob know if you are interested in running and give us a short paragraph about you. We love new ideas and new adventures. As Bob said running for office doesn’t mean you are dissatisfied with the current board, you just want to contribute!
 
Suzan Fournier wondered about having the whole club vote if we do get some competition this time. In the past it didn’t matter because there was no running opposition. Carolyn White said she could send out a Survey Monkey if that is the case.
 
Pres Bob Noble asked for a motion to dismiss at 10:53! Jerry Norton moved to dismiss and Alberta Husch concurred. Everyone agreed!
 
Suzan Fournier, Secretary
 

11/10/2021

Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am.
 
Motions were made and accepted to accept the minutes from last month by John Mead and Terry Adcock.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave the update on our money. We gained 10 cents this month! Our MM is now $6561.00 and the checking account stands at $973.21. Last month’s raffle brought in $26.00. She reminded us that membership dues are on an annual basis from Jan through Dec fiscal year.
 
Janice Shephard made a motion to accept the report and Tanya Davis concurred.
 
Pres Bob thanked the hardworking Tizza Chace and Les Slowik for the wonderful goodies and drinks. It’s a lot of work and much appreciated.

Our new Membership committee chairs are Jean Greenfield and Larrayne Zygmunt. Thank you for taking this on! They announced our new members for this month. They are Pat & Doug Taylor from Washington State, Paula Ritter from Cincinnati (all of 6 weeks) and Scott and Pat Perrin from the Front Range. Welcome all!

Linda Ash of the We Care group (of one!) sent a card to Jana DelCamp and her Mother (who is not a member). They both had been ill.
 
Carolyn White reported no recent updates on the website or newsletter.
 
Douglas Grodt of the Hiking group reminded everyone of the hikes every Thursday. He has a listing of the hikes if you want to get on his email list. Mica Mines is the next hike which has had a big rockslide recently.
 
Pres Bob spoke about the Armchair Travelers need for someone to take the lead on that. It has been a very worthwhile event for the community in conjunction with the library. If you have any questions about this event get with Bob to find out more about it.
 
Carl Zimmerman congratulated Lois and Nile Leach on a wonderful tour of Maverick Hotel. January tour will be of the library and recording studio. 
 
Pres Bob announced that ushers are needed for Mama Mia. It is not demanding work and you can see a musical! See Bob if interested…The dates are Dec. 31st, Jan 1 and Jan 2nd.
 
Pres Bob mentioned that in the past we have donated to the Giving Tree. If anyone knows of any cause that we might be interested in let him know.
 
Bob introduced Exec. Director for Center of Independence Linda Taylor. They help people with a variety of disabilities to be able to live on their own, help with medical supplies and much more. If you know of someone in need you may want to look into this facility. They have 24 staff members in 3 separate locations. Linda did mention that they are working with folks that are the “long haulers” from Covid, ALS seems to be on the rise, veterans and low vision issues due to living in Colorado and the strong sunlight we have. It was a particularly good presentation.
 
Susan Norton and Les Slowik handled the raffle. There was a variety of gifts this time donated. Susan also reminded us of the Art Center Craft Fair Nov. evening of the 19th, 20th and 21st. There will be about 35 vendors with some wonderful art pieces as well. This is a much-needed craft fair to help the art center.
 
Pres Bob Noble called for adjournment. Les Slowik motioned to adjourn and Alec Fournier seconded.
 
Adjourned!

10/13/2021

Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am.
 
Motions were made and accepted to accept the minutes from last month by John Mead and Terry Adcock.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave the update on our money. We gained 10 cents this month! Our MM is now $6561.00 and the checking account stands at $973.21. Last month’s raffle brought in $26.00. She reminded us that membership dues are on an annual basis from Jan through Dec fiscal year.
 
Janice Shephard made a motion to accept the report and Tanya Davis concurred.
 
Pres Bob thanked the hardworking Tizza Chace and Les Slowik for the wonderful goodies and drinks. It’s a lot of work and much appreciated.
 
Our new Membership committee chairs are Jean Greenfield and Larrayne Zygmunt. Thank you for taking this on! They announced our new members for this month. They are Pat & Doug Taylor from Washington State, Paula Ritter from Cincinnati (all of 6 weeks) and Scott and Pat Perrin from the Front Range. Welcome all!
 
Carolyn White reported no recent updates on the website or newsletter.
 
Douglas Grodt of the Hiking group reminded everyone of the hikes every Thursday. He has a listing of the hikes if you want to get on his email list. Mica Mines is the next hike which has had a big rockslide recently.
 
Pres Bob spoke about the Armchair Travelers need for someone to take the lead on that. It has been a very worthwhile event for the community in conjunction with the library. If you have any questions about this event get with Bob to find out more about it.
 
Carl Zimmerman congratulated Lois and Nile Leach on a wonderful tour of Maverick Hotel. January tour will be of the library and recording studio. You can sign up now for that event.
 
Pres Bob announced that ushers are needed for Mama Mia. It is not demanding work and you can see a musical! See Bob if interested…The dates are Dec. 31st, Jan 1 and Jan 2nd.
 
Pres Bob mentioned that in the past we have donated to the Giving Tree. If anyone knows of any cause that we might be interested in let him know.
 
Bob introduced Exec. Director for Center of Independence Linda Taylor. They help people with a variety of disabilities to be able to live on their own, help with medical supplies and much more. If you know of someone in need you may want to look into this facility. They have 24 staff members in 3 separate locations. Linda did mention that they are working with folks that are the “long haulers” from Covid, ALS seems to be on the rise, veterans and low vision issues due to living in Colorado and the strong sunlight we have. It was a particularly good presentation.
 
Susan Norton and Les Slowik handled the raffle. There was a variety of gifts this time donated. Susan also reminded us of the Art Center Craft Fair Nov. evening of the 19th, 20th and 21st. There will be about 35 vendors with some wonderful art pieces as well. This is a much-needed craft fair to help the art center.
 
Pres Bob Noble called for adjournment. Les Slowik motioned to adjourn and Alec Fournier seconded.
 
Adjourned!
 
Suzan Fournier, Secretary

9/8/2021

​Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10:00 am.
 
Bob asked for approval of last months minutes to be approved. Terry Adcock motioned for minutes to be adopted and Tanya Davis seconded that motion. Minutes were accepted by proclamation.
 
Bob spoke for Susan Norton regarding our money accounts. We have $864.79 in checking account and $6561.02 in money market. Total cost for the barbecue was $1120.63. 80 folks paid for the barbecue which was $800.00 so we actually subsidized $320.63 to the club.
 
Pres. Bob asked for a motion to accept the Treasurers report. Lois Leach made that motion and Alec Fournier seconded.
 
Pres Bob thanked the coffee committee of 2 - Les Slowik and Tizza Chace. Always a wonderful selection!
 
We had several new members today! Membership committee Ernestine Campbell reported Nancy Wood from St. George and Michigan has joined, Ila Fritzel from Western Kansas who has been here for 2 months, Thadeus Preuss from the Philly/PA area has been here for one year, Gail and Greg McCarty have been here for one month from St. Simon Island in Georgia and Jeannine Faull of 5 weeks from California. We had one visitor today as well. Welcome all! That is a big month!
 
Linda Ash of the “we Care” committee (of one) reported she has sent out 4 cards to folks so far. They are Jackie Noonan who had surgery, Joyce Williams, Susan Norton and Becky Chesnut. If you ever know of anyone that can use a card please let Linda know and she will get one out to them. Bob did explain about Susan Norton having a bike accident with several serious injuries and Becky Chesnut coming to help her who fell and broke her femur bone at the knee. Speedy recovery to both of them.
 
Pres Bob mentioned that the membership committee has been working that for 10 years. They are tired and would like to move on! We need some volunteers to come forward to help with membership duties. Ernestine said that it works very well if you 3 folks since some like to travel and do other things. Please see Bob Noble or call him if you are interested in taking on this task.
 
Carolyn White, our newsletter and website guru reminded us that this newsletter is a double month for Sept. and Oct. She hopes to be traveling and enjoying herself!
 
Carl Zimmerman of the lunch and tour group said the Tour for Palisade museum will be divided up into groups in the parking lot since the museum is small. Some of the information will be given in the parking lot while others are touring etc. Nile Leach is taking names for the Whitewater Cemetery tour for next month. Remember this is a Boot Hill cemetery so dress accordingly.
 
Pres Bob Noble mentioned we still are in need of a volunteer for the Armchair Travelers. This has been a very popular event in conjunction with the library. Please see Bob if you have any interest in knowing more about those responsibilities. Suzan Fournier mentioned that perhaps this could be a couple of people that would like to take it on. If you are intimidated by doing this yourself maybe a couple folks would like to work it together to make it easier and to utilize resources for getting speakers.
 
Tanya Davis is a committee member for the Dinner Club. They will be having their first meeting at the home of Larry and Ruth Anna on Sept. 18th outside. Peggy Pretti and Irene Bladow are also on that committee. We have many new members. This is a smaller more informal way to really get to know some Newcomer members and enjoy a great meal. You can reach any of the committee members through our directory to make inquiries. It is a nominal fee to join.
 
Doug Grodt let us know he has taken over the Hiking Club for the “easy hiking for old people” group. Tomorrow they are meeting at the Urgent Care in the Coronado Plaza to go up to Waterdog to hike. They meet and car people if you don’t want to drive. Give Doug a call for the information for upcoming hikes.
 
Pres. Bob has been asked to give something away by some members that have recently been to Las Vegas. He has 4 $10.00 gift cards with the Raiders logo on it. You should be able to use it online for the Raiders store in Vegas. Let Bob know if you want them.
 
CONGRATULATIONS to the recent nuptials of Les Slowik and Tizza Chace!
 
Alec Fournier reported to me in private that there were 55 in attendance today.
 
The raffle brought in $37.00 from todays meeting.
 
Pres. Bob gave the microphone over to Nancy McGuire our speaker from the local astronomy club. She works for the Grand Mesa observatory. Nancy did a presentation on the “Dark sky preservation in Western Colorado,” If you need any information on this subject you can go to IDA website for more information on proper lighting around your home and elsewhere to keep our skies dark for the enjoyment of the skies.
 
Ruth Anna reminded us of the event on Sep.t Sept. 23rd at Las Colonias benefiting all the non profits here in Grand Junction area. They will have booths for United Way groups, music and food trucks of course! This is a very worthy event for the non profits who have suffered during this past year and a half and informative on their benefits.
 
Les Slowik handled the raffle in Susan Norton’s absence. The money from the raffle helps to provide for the goodies that are given out at meeting.
 
David Austin made a motion to adjourn and Martha Potyondy concurred.
 
Meeting adjourned!

8/11/2021

​Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am.
 
He asked for approval of the minutes from the last meeting.  Tanya Davis made a motion to adopt the minutes and John Mead 2nd that motion.  The minutes were approved as seen in the last newsletter.
 
Susan Norton, Treas. Announced “we have money but less of it!”  There is $1427 in checking and $6560.85 in money market.  Wayne Westerson approved the report and John Mayerik 2nd the approval. 
 
Bob acknowledged a big thanks to the coffee and goodie committee, Les Slowik and Tizza Chace.  Thank you very much! 
 
August bdays were acknowledged and congratulated!
 
Wayne Ash stood in for Linda to give us the We Care Report:  3 cards were sent out to Arlene Albers who’s husband Gene passed away, Sue Slaughter for the passing of her Father and Shirley Skinner who’s husband passed. 
 
Wayne also reminded us that Meals on Wheels is in desperate need of drivers.  This work can be as little as a couple hours a week delivering food to the homebound.  It is a very rewarding job and you work with a great bunch of people!
 
We have one new member and one visitor for today.  Jan Rau from California has been here for a whopping 2 weeks!   Welcome and thanks for joining!
 
Carolyn White reported nothing to ad to the newsletter and no updates on the website.
 
We have a special event coming up on Labor Day Sept. 6th.  Have Cooker will travel will be providing chicken, beef 2 veggies, roll, dessert and drink options.  It will be at Canyon View Park at the pavilion by the play area.  Get with Ken Alevy if you are able to help out with setting up, serving, or clean up.  We just need about 4 folks for each task.  Tickets are only $10.00 per person.  There is also a vegetarian option.
 
Ruth Anna announced the Dinner club will be meeting Sept. 18th at her house for hors d’oeuvres and beverages.  Oct. will begin their monthly dinners.  It is only $5 for returning couples, $10 for new couples and $5 for new singles. 8 people will be the size of the groups including the hosts.  This is a really fun time and great way to get to know people on a more personal level.  Let Ruth know if she can add your name to the list!
 
Nancy Hollmaier informed us about the maj Jong Thursday group that meets at Irene Bladow’s club house.  The time is 1:30 and you can play or observe to decide if you want to learn.  Get with Nancy to find out some more information.  Nancy also let us know that Joyce Williams’s husband had a stroke and they will pass on more information as they find out more.
 
Bob reminded us if we need a new badge to let Alberta Husch know.  The cost is $9.00 for a new magnetic one.  If you have a badge on the table please take it home with you.
 
Doug Grodt gave us an update on the hiking group.  The next couple of hikes are wonderful!  They are easy hikes for Lake of the Woods which is tomorrow and the next one will be at Craig Crest.  Dan Hunt is currently leading this group but will be leaving Grand Junction soon then Doug will take over.  Get on the email list if you would like updates on the hikes.  They meet at 8:45 at City Market in Clifton by the Urgent Care.  There are volunteers to drive up to the Mesa if you aren’t comfortable driving. 
 
Bob introduced Carl Zimmerman as helping to take over the lunch and tour group along with Nile Leach.  The sign up sheet for the current tour is on the table.  The next tour in Sept. will be at Whitewater Cemetery Boot Hill.  The sign up will be at the Sept. meeting for that one. 
 
Stan Zygmunt, a member of Newcomers and a volunteer at New Dimensions was our speaker for the meeting.  You can find their website at newdimensionsgj.org for the schedule of signing up for classes and date requirements.  The classes will be online Aug. 30th and registration begins Sept. 3rd and ends on the 7th.  Some of the classes are 2 meetings and some can be 4 or more.  The lectures are held in different places.  Sometimes they are walking tours as well.  The fee to join is 75.00 for the year for as many classes you would like to take. 
 
Susan Norton reminded us of the very worthy Music in the Grapevines band coming on the 17th of Aug.  Its a band from Tx and all the proceeds go directly to the Art Center that needs your support!  You can buy tickets online or get with Carolyn White or Susan Norton for tickets.  It should be a great night.  There are only 2 more concerts for this season.  Stray Grass will close up the season for the Sept. concert.
 
The raffle brought in $31.00.  Thanks to all who contributed items for the raffle. 
 
Pres. Bob Noble adjourned the meeting at 10:55.  Dan Hunt made a motion to dismiss and Les Slowik concurred.
 
Meeting adjourned!
 
Suzan Fournier, Secretary
 

7/14/2021

Meeting was called to order by Pres. Bob Noble at 10 am.
The minutes of last month’s meeting, as published in the newsletter, were approved unanimously.
Treasurer Susan Norton reported $4,039.16 in checking and $6,560.69 in money market accounts.
 The club recognized Tizza Chase and Les Slowik as the coffee committee who puts together beverages and food for us.
 A call for those with July birthdays was made, and a few members held up their hands.
 We had several guests with us today: Nancy Wood, now in Fruita; Gloria Hollermeier, neighbor of Les and Tizza; John and Sandy Silletto, neighbors of Carl and Linda Zimmerman; and Debbie, who has hiked with Dan Hunt’s group. Kim Mitchell joined in the past month and attended today as her first meeting. Les commented that now that vaccinations are mostly the rule, it is a great time to bring friends and new neighbors to meetings.
 Linda Ash said “We Care” did not learn of many serious illnesses of members over the past pandemic year. However, in recent months three former members have died: Richard Gerhardt, Connie Strothman and Tony Portella.
 Carolyn White said there was nothing to add about the newsletter and that the website was updated regularly.
 Dan Hunt introduced himself as the new leader of the Thursday hiking group, taking over from Bob Bubel. Hikes are generally four miles total, in and out, or hikers may choose to do half-way and back. Hikers meet at a trailhead at 9 am usually. Dan had copies of a July-September schedule for people to take, or he can be emailed at newcomerhikers@gmail.com. The hike tomorrow will be on the Grand Mesa to see wildflowers.
 Bob is also interested in organizing a poker group. Anyone interested should get in touch with him.
 Carl Zimmerman and Nile Leach were available to talk about the new season of Lunch and Tour. Tours will resume in September. Members may sign up for the next immediate tour at the meeting before it takes place. Those who aren’t at the meeting may the phone for a spot or to be put on a wait list. Details will be in the newsletter for these each month:
  • Sept. 14, Palisade History Museum and lunch at Maison la Belle Vie
  • Oct. 6, Whitewater Boot Hill with box lunch
  • Nov.9, Hotel Maverick with lunch at the hotel’s Devil’s Kitchen
  • December – nothing planned
  • Jan. 26, 2022, Mesa County Central Library and recording studio
 More members are welcome to join the committee or to submit suggestions for outings.
 Bob Noble reminded us that Armchair Travelers still needs someone to head it up. This has been a very successful program with wide community interest. It would be sad to let it go.
 The Plane Crazy visit to the Commemorative Air Force Museum on July 15 has been cancelled for lack of interest.
 Amanda de Bock, program manager of Meals on Wheels, spoke about its services and the club’s long history of volunteering with it. Meals on Wheels normally serves nutritious hot meals at several congregate sites and by home-delivery. The dining sites are reopening now; earlier, participants could get meals “grab and go” or by a drive-through at the Chipeta location.
 Volunteer opportunities include –
  • Dining site positions for meals and hosting games and entertainment
  • Kitchens for packing lunches
  • Load-out for getting meals to drivers
  • Drivers for 29 routes.
  • Family visit home call program for phone chats to meal participants
 All volunteer positions are flexible with vacations, appointments and anything else that can crop up. You may also volunteer “on call” as a fill-in for others. For those who didn’t pick up a flyer, more information is available at mealsonwheelsmesacounty.org/.
 The raffle had five items, all taken by gleeful winners.
 Meeting was adjourned at 10:50 am.

6/9/2021

 
Meeting was called to order by Pres. Bob Noble at 10:03 am.
Minutes were approved unanimously from last month.
Susan Norton is traveling so Bob gave the Treasurers report. We have money! There is $1627.28 in checking, $6560.51 money market and .02 interest! Yes interest rates are going down.
Happy Birthday to all June birthdays.
The plane crazy group spoke about their July 15th outing to the Grand Junction Regional Airport. They will gather for lunch at Village Inn on Horizon Dr. At 11:30 and then head over to the airport off Navigator Way to the commemorative building. There is a Torpedo Bomber there that was the lead in the Royal Canadian Air Force as well as in attendance for Queen Elizabeth III coronation.
There will be a B25 skip bomber here on the 24th that you can pay to ride in it if interested. Please get with Ernie Stech if you have any questions.
We have a few guests with us today. Greg and Diana Larson from Loveland  have been here a whole 5 weeks. Ann Mauer from Columbia, Maryland also joined us. She has been here 4 years. Constance Shambo from Moab also joined us. Scott Beilfuss, sales mgr. for Solstice Sr. Living, was a member long ago and visited as well. Welcome to all and hope you decide this group might be for you.
Carolyn White had no new additions to the newsletter as sent out.
Pres. Bob reiterated we REALLY need coordinators for a few special groups that have been huge successes in the past. One is for Armchair Travelers that is in coordination with the library. A couple of folks to help with this would lighten the load. It is great fun and rewarding to find folks to do a presentation at the library about any interest they may have, traveling or any hobby etc. they may have. It has been a successful program in the past and would be a shame to lose this program that the community loves.
The other group is coordinators for the lunch and tour group. This is another HUGELY successful group that tours different businesses in our town. This group could use a few folks to once again lighten the load for all. It’s not too soon to get started on this to get dates lined up to tour. Again, it would be a shame to lose this successful, fun and enlightening group. These are excellent ways to get to know people better in our group and develop friendships as well. Martha and I.P. Potyondy are willing to “walk you through” some of the details of the group. They have a lot of experience and it would be helpful to pass that on.
Our energetic speaker today is Diane Barger from RSVP. A lot of people know this group as it is a volunteer group in all areas you can think of. Any interest you may have they will be able to match you up with that interest. You can work just a couple hours or a lot of hours, seasonally as well to match your lifestyle. They represent 61 non profits here in the Valley. They also have SHIP which will give you free unbiased information on medicare. Many many people in our group also volunteer with them for so many different things. This is a great way to give back to the community, meet new people and share your interest.
We had 46 folks in attendance today.
Pres Bob introduced Larry and Ruth Anna as sharing the role of 1st VP’s. He also introduced Nile and Lois Leach as sharing the role of 2nd VP’s. Thanks to all of you for stepping up to support our group!
Carolyn White mentioned there is a magazine exchange at the back of the room and some “free stuff”. Make sure you look through that.
Bob called for motion to adjourn. Alec Fournier motioned and Martha Potyondy 2nd that motion. Meeting was adjourned at 10:52. WHAT? An early release. The first I can ever remember!
 
Suzan Fournier, Secretary
 

5/12/2021

Meeting called to order by Pres. Bob Noble. He welcomed everyone back heartily! He talked about our “new home” at the Masonic Center. It can accommodate our growing club.
Treas. Susan Norton gave us the good news “we have money!” That was good to hear! Between savings and money market we have $8400.00. We had made some donations during covid to places like Meals on Wheels and Homeward Bound for a total of $3000.00. We also kept paying the church through the year which amounted to $1200.00 and postage expenses of $507.00. If you have any questions about the account please get ahold of Susan Norton.
Bob had a couple of new members introduce themselves. The first one is Marilyn Stroo who has lived in Grand Junction for 4 years. Nancy and Mark Armstrong are also new members and have been here for 2 years. They moved here from the Denver area.
Susan Norton talked about the Music in the Grapevines series that benefits the Art Center. When you purchase a ticket they are good for any concert that summer. The first concert on May 25th is Stray Grass. Tickets are $15.00 in advance and $20.00 at the entrance.
Dr. Diane Janowicz from St. Mary’s was our speaker for this morning. She is an Infectious Disease Doctor. She updated us on current conditions in Mesa County and answered many questions by members on Covid 19. It was interesting and informative.
The Plane Crazy folks talked about their outings they had last year. This is a newer group and are interested in seeing who might be interested. Last year they went to Olathe to talk to the crop dusters and also went out to Grand Junction airport at the commemorative area. They will probably have events every other month. If you are interested get ahold of Ernie Stech.
Janice Shepherd let us know about a clean up a group did at Corn Lake. She had been fishing there and was surprised at the amount of trash in the area. With permission, she organized a group of 10 (5 from our Newcomers group) and they had lots of trash bags filled. Look for a picture in the Sentinel that she sent in!.
Pres. Bob talked about some of the groups that have faded away such as men and women golf. If you have interest in restarting and organizing these get with Bob and he can help you out. Someone else also mentioned bridge had faded out. That is another group that needs direction. Armchair Travelers that partners with the library was going to record some of the programs but they found that some folks didn’t want their work recorded and maybe reused by someone else. Janice Shepherd also thought the enthusiasm wasn’t there since there was no audience participation and reaction. Please see Bob about this great program that has brought us lots of fascinating trips and information to the library community room.
Another fabulous group that Martha and IP Potyondy had headed up for years and did a GREAT job was the Tour and Lunch. That group had been to fabulous and unknown businesses in the Valley. There were many of these that no one even knew was here. They are happy to let you know of the history of the group and where they have been. They also can guide you some to get it started for you. This group can use more than just 2 people to lighten the load. Again, let Bob know and he can direct you to the right folks to get started. This is a great group that we hope won’t disappear!
Susan Norton counted 72 folks in attendance.
Les Slowik commended Ruth Anna for finding our new venue at the Masonic Lodge and reminded folks to take home the goodies that of course Tizza Chace made. Thanks Tizza!
Someone else spoke up and thanked Carolyn White for keeping us all connected during our year hiatus. It is mucho appreciated!
Jerry Norton called to adjourn the meeting at 11 am. Everyone seconded and we adjourned!
 
Suzan Fournier, Secretary
​

March 2020 minutes

Pres. Bob Noble started the meeting at am. Terry Adcock and Diana Mead moved and accepted the minutes from last month.
Adele Matera gave the Treasurers report and started off by saying “we have money!” Last month we had $6042.61 with deposits of $708.25 and spent $328.12 for a total of $7422.74. We gained .75 in interest! We also have $6550.65 in money market. .Alec Fournier and Ruth Anna moved and accepted report.
Bob recognized the coffee committee of two – Tizza Chace and Les Slowik. Thanks for the wonderful goodies and hot coffee!
There were no new visitors and no new members today.
Linda Ash of We Care left Bob a note to tell us she sent out one card last month to Kennie Ruth Gimple for surgery.
Douglas Grodt sprinted up the podium to remind us he is a Colorado native plant master. April 22nd is the wildflower walk in the monument. They will meet at the Devils Kitchen picnic area. We need to get a little rain for the hike to happen. If we don’t get rain he may have to postpone til May. There will be lunch after at La Cabra on Broadway.
Ginny Baikewicz talked about the upcoming March 18th alpaca tour. Lunch after will be at 357 Grill in Palisade. Also please bring correct change of $2.00 for the tour.
Janet Johnson is taking signups for Highline Lake clean up. She took a hand vote for dates of Mon. May 18th or Tues. May 19th. Tuesday won out. This is our community service event that Newcomers sponsors. They will meet at 9:00 am; give out directions on where to pick up trash etc. A barbeque is followed about noon. She will also need folks to purchase the food and some help at the barbeque.
 Pres. Bob Noble asked if anyone was interested in running for any Board position. There were no responses so he asked for a proposal to accept the Board as is with the exception of 2nd Vice President which is currently empty. Ruth Anna proposed to accept the Board and Janet Johnson seconded it. All were in favor!
 Bob talked about the 2nd Vice President role as having two roles- one that orchestrates out of town excursions and one that serves as a Board tie breaker if needed. Wayne McCalla held that position for several years and we appreciate his work very much. Rolf Ganahl has stepped forward to fill that position. Rolf and his wife Donna are fairly new to Newcomers. He started the cross country ski group and has gotten very involved quickly. Bob made the motion to accept Rolf as our new 2nd Vice President and Nancy Hollmaier seconded. The group concurred. Congratulations Rolf!
 Suzan Fournier reiterated a job well done by Wayne and thank you for all the years you served.
 Bob introduced the new Exec Director for Museums of Western Colorado, Kaia Michaelis . She is head of Dinosaur Journey Fruita, Cross Orchard, and Museum of the West. She mentioned several things they have coming up: Easter egg hunt at Cross Orchards, Speakeasy happening May 8th, digging for fossils for over 6 yrs. old – you get to dig with a paleontologist and various trips they plan such as going to Santa Fee with Matt Darling the curator.
 They need volunteers to help with the school tours at the Western Museum. Cross Orchards could use help with victory garden, train, old tractors etc. Some things need some love and care. There is a special exhibit of art works thru the end of this year. The Dinosaur museum will be having an exhibit about the dodo bird.
 Financial health of the museums is good. They used to get more money from the county but that has been dialed back. There are some maintenance issues coming up that need addressed. They will apply for grants and may do a capital campaign for funds. They are predicting somewhere between $150,000 to $300,000 for the boiler and repairs.
 Kaia is trained in art history and has decades of experience and several art museums as well as other facilities.
Chautauqua is planned for Sept. 5- 12th. This year will be about the 19th Amendment and All That Jazz is the theme.
 Cowboy Poetry is in early Nov. There will even be a band from Australia this year.
 It was a very good presentation with a lot of information. Thank you!
 The raffle was very light but a couple of good concert tickets were donated.
 Pres. Bob Noble closed the meeting at 11:00 am. Alec Fournier accepted the motion to end and Donald Leche seconded. The club concurred.
 Meeting adjourned!
Suzan Fournier, secretary
​

​FEBRUARY 2020 MINUTES

​2/12/2020
Pres. Bob Noble brought meeting to order at 10 am. Last months minutes were approved by Ruth Anna and Diana Mead.
 
Our new Treasurer, Adele Matera informed us we had $5185.26 in checking, $317.89 in expenses, $1175 in deposits for a total of $6555.81. We have money! The money market is $6555.81. She also reminded the group to get in their membership renewal money. We have about 50% that have not paid. Bob asked for approval on Treasurers report and former Treasurer shot up her hand to accept the report. Donna Ganahl seconded the motion.
 
Bob thanked Les Slowik and Tizza Chace for the goodies for the meeting and coffee. As usual it is delicious!
 
Bob also recognized Feb. birthdays and Anniversaries. Alicia and Terry Adcock had their 20th this month.
Ethel Oatman announced we had a few visitors. Thank you for coming!
 
Linda Ash gave the We Care report. She sent out 4 cards this month. Marilyn Grafe’s granddaughter passed away, Ed Hokanson is recovering from a heart attack, Jan McRae’s brother passed away and Madge Buschhorn’s son passed away from ALS. Our condolences to those and speedy recovery to Ed.
Carolyn White had no new updates on the newsletter.
 
Jim Hughes reminded us about the March 12th wine luncheon at Chez Lena. Let Jim know if you are interested in attending. They sample about 5 wines and have a wonderful lunch.
 
Douglas Grodt told about the Feb. 19th lunch and tour to Atomic Legacy cabin in Orchard Mesa. They will meet at 10 am at the cabin. Lunch after to follow at Thai Smile.
 
March 18th’s tour will be at SunCrest Orchard Alpaca Farm at 10 am. There is a $2.00 charge so please have correct change. They actually produce the fiber there as well. You can park in front of store. Lunch after will be at Café 357 in Palisade.
 
Armchair Travelers will have a presentation on March 2nd at the Central Library. The speaker Walt Fite has presented before. These are popular events and do fill up. Plan to get there early for a ticket to get a seat.
 
Suzan Fournier reminded the group of the new knitting/crochet group that will meet this Monday the 17th at her house at 1:30. If you are interested let her know. It meets the 3rd Monday of the month.
 
Donna Ganahl gave out some information on the Great Courses the library offers. It is called Kanopy. Donna endorses these classes and says they are wonderful.
 
Rolf Ganahl heads up the cross-country skiing group. They meet on Tuesdays a little before 10 am in Clifton at the City Market. They head up to the Mesa. He works with the beginners and helps to instruct them how to alpine ski. They did about 5 miles. If interested let him know.
 
Bob Noble reminded us of officer elections for next month. We already have elected new Treas. Adele Matera. We do need the 2nd V.P. position filled. Let Bob know if you are interested in running for that position. All positions are open for competition and to get involved in. Don’t be shy!
 
Bob Noble introduced 2 ladies from the Grand Rivers Humane Society. They told us of the history of the volunteer group. Dr. Maruca started this group in 2005 where he felt the need to have more humane treatment for euthanasia of dogs. He founded the thrift store that is in Orchard Mesa as well. That is where the cats reside. It is run by a Board of Directors. They do rely on volunteers for many things – social media, the adoption events held weekly, thrift store help etc. They are growing as is the population here. They will take most any dog or cat the Mesa County Animal Services calls them about. There is an adoption event from 8 to 2 this sat at Petco. They will have 8 dogs needing homes. The animals do undergo behavioral testing to make sure they are adoptable. Dr. Maruko saved over 7,000 dogs and cats in his lifetime. When you buy from Amazon Smile or City Market Community awards they get a proceed from those sales. Give them a call if you want to volunteer to help out!
 
Bob reminded folks to take the leftover cookies or pastries home.
 
Meeting was adjourned by Jerry Norton and concurred by Jack Wheeler. The meeting adjourned at 11 am. 

jANUARY 2020 MINUTES

1/6/2020
​Pres. Bob Noble started the meeting at 10 am. Last month’s minutes were approved by Alec Fournier and Martha Potyondy.
 
Susan Norton gave her final Treasurers report after 11 years of dedicated service to the club. As she put it for the final time “We have money!” There is $5125.26 in checking, $6554.97 in Money market and the raffle drew $54.00. Bob Noble presented her with a gift card for her years of service and a thank you card from the club. Susan said she has enjoyed having the job and she was happy to have served. She also mentioned the Holiday Party had a good turnout. It was a fun night withstanding another food issue.
 
She also reminded folks of Stray Grass playing at the Art Center on the 25th. Tickets are $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door. This benefits the Art Center so please buy a ticket! You can get one from Carolyn White today.
 
Janice Shepherd approved the Treasurers report and 2nd by Jim Hughes. The report was accepted by acclimation.
 
Bob said that Wayne McCalla has decided to step down from 2nd VP position. He arranged day trips out of the area. We need someone to step up to assume this role. Please see Bob for more information. We vote in March for new Board members so please be thinking about it. All candidates will be considered for all positions.
 
Secretary Suzan Fournier said she would run again for Secretary but anyone else interested in this position please let Bob know.
 
Les Slowik will run again as 1st Vice President. However he would step back if someone else wants to run. These positions are open to all.
 
The club thrives on its members volunteering for the many positions the club has to offer. Please let Bob know about any committee, board positions etc. that may be of interest to you.
 
Susan Norton performed her final duties of the raffle. 8 items were up for raffle. It was a solemn moment that Pam Hughes did not win! It’s a first!
 
Bob acknowledged the efforts of the coffee committee Les Slowik and Tizza Chace for the great coffee and awesome goodies.
 
Ethel Oatman announced for once we had no new visitors! Our new members are Michaela and Richard Meyer from Minnesota. Welcome to the group! Ethel also said mailing in your membership dues is helpful to handle the load of paperwork.
 
Linda Ash of the “we care” reported only one card was sent out to Becky Chesnut who had surgery. If you know of anyone that has had medical issues or passed away please let her know so she can send out a card. Also if you want to donate some cards to her they are appreciated. She purchases these cards on her own so donations are welcomed!
Carolyn White of the Newsletter committee reminded us she had combined Nov and Dec. She would get back on track with January’s newsletter.
 
Webmaster Jim Hughes said Pam had some issues with her mass email mailings. That seems to be fixed and the emails should be working. Jim also said the next wine luncheon gathering is on Jan 30th at Chez Lena. He has sent out emails to all on his list. If you did not get an email and are interested let him know so he can add you to the list.
 
Martha Potyondy of Lunch N Learn (Tour) said Jan. is the Palisade Peachtree Distillery. Bring correct change of $4.00 per person to help facilitate things. It is on Wed. the 15th at 10 am. Lunch to follow at 367 Bar and Grill in Palisades.
 
Doug Grodt gave us update on Feb. 19th tour of the Atomic Legacy cabin. We have uranium in this area and there was a facility that processed it. There is a log cabin near the museum that they will be touring. Lunch afterwards will be at Thai Smile’s in Orchard Mesa next to the True Value.
 
He said the hiking group is now in the snowshoeing phase. You can buy snowshoes at Sam’s Club for about $89.00 with poles if you need some.
 
Nancy Channell of Armchair Travelers group thanked everyone who visited or sent her cards while she was in the hospital. She said a gentleman by the name of Tom Azura left her a message but the phone number was incorrect. He wanted to do a presentation in Feb. but she can’t locate him. This Monday at 6:30 at the Central Library Rolf Ganahl will be discussing Stalking Wild Mushrooms. Rolf was introduced to mushrooms growing up in Switzerland when he was 5 years old. Donna Ganahl cooks and preserves them for their enjoyment. Be there at 6 pm. To get a ticket for a seat and the presentation starts at 6:30 pm.
 
Les Slowik announced the tables have a $5.00 off coupon from Famous Dave’s. Happy hour will be there on the 30th. He also mentioned he and Tizza drove by the new hotel that is being built on CMU campus by 7th St. He thinks the hospitality is on 4th floor and a big patio will be there for springtime future happy hours.
 
Stan Zygmunt who is a volunteer for New Dimensions left brochures on tables regarding the upcoming classes. They provide short term courses. Winter/Spring registration is starting. The syllabus will be available Jan. 18th online and ends Jan. 28th. Examples of some of the courses are Enstrom candy tour; Brown around town, Jane Quimby retired FBI, D51, and history of mining, rock n roll history and ukulele lessons!
 
Janice Shephard mentioned several people were unable to make her “Hong Kong “presentation in January. She will present again on Jan. 24th at 2:30 at the library. But the good news is you can go from there to Rockslide for $1.50 beers! It’s a very good presentation!
 
She also mentioned that you can buy a $20.00 annual pass for the National Parks which will go towards the $80.00 lifetime pass. You can apply that money at any time.
 
Priscilla Mangnall from the Senior Theatre Group let us know that she belongs to the Historical Society and they have a monthly presentation at the library the 3rd Thursday of the month in the Community room. This is free and open to the public.
 
There was a special presentation by the Grand Junction Senior Theatre. It is for adults over 50 yrs. Old who love the stage. If you want to join give them a call! They performed a cute skit on “daytime TV”. It was a cute funny performance. The theatre group will have a performance about class reunions at the Art Center on March 27th and 28th. If you have been to a class reunion that should be interesting if not hilarious. This work supports their outreach programs for senior facilities and meals on wheels.
 
Suzan Fournier reminded folks of the new knitting/crochet group that will meet on Jan. 20th at 1:30. If you are interested let her know so she can add your name to the emails.
 
Bob reminded folks to take the left over cookies. Les can’t eat them all.
 
Bob asked for motion to adjourn - Alec Fournier made the motion and Terry Adcock 2nd. Everyone enthusiastically concurred. Meeting adjourned at 11:04! 

December 2019 MINUTES

12/11/2019
​V. Pres. Les Slowik called meeting to order at 10:00 am. Jerry Norton and Diana Mead approved the notes from last month’s meeting.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report stating we have money! We have $6554.11 in Money market and $6826.22 in checking account. $57.00 was gained in raffle money to help pay for all the goodies Tizza Chace bakes for us.
 
Susan did mention we are going to start paying $100.00 per month to the church for use of the facilities. It accommodates us all and is a good price so we are staying put. She also reminded us of the Stray Grass concert at Art Center on Jan. 25th. $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door. Happy Holidays all!
 
Motion to pass the Treasurers report was approved by David Austin and John Mead.
 
Linda Ash from We Care committee send cards out to Susan Norton who broke her wrist during pickle ball and David Austin whose brother passed away. A thank you card was read from Tanya Davis on the passing of her husband and the support she got.
 
We had 2 visitors today. We also gained 2 new members John and Nelda Partin. Welcome!
 
Les thanked the cookie committee of two – Les and Tizza! Thanks for the coffee and treats!
 
Also since we supply the silverware for our Holiday Party we need volunteers to help collect the silverware to be taken home and cleaned.
 
Jim Hughes reminded us all of the Jan. 31st wine club meeting at Chez Lena. More information to follow on menu etc.
 
I.P. Potyondy reported on the new tour year. Next tour will be at the Peachtree Distillery. Lunch afterwards will be at Bar & Grill 357 in Palisade. You can sign up for wait list. There is a $32.00 fee for the tasting!
 
Sue Slaughter reported on our Holiday Party that is this evening. We have 122 folks signed up. 5:45 is social hour, dinner at 6:45 with entertainment by Les and music by Jerry Norton. We have great centerpieces and looks to be a good time.
 
Our speakers for today were from CMU in the Admin office. They talked about their new hotel going up that is for their hospitality and culinary majors to participate in. It will be a great place to stay for parents etc. They have another residence hall being built because they are at capacity. There is talk of a possible ROTC on campus.
 
Admits in Dec are up compared to last year. There are a total of 11,000 students currently enrolled.
 
They have a great athletic dept. – 26 NCAA sports team and club sports. Their cycling team won first in nationals against Harvard. Only school in Colorado with women’s wrestling.
 
You can get a Master’s Degree, MBA, nursing, education, sports mgmt., and const. mgmt. as well as many 110 majors including West Colorado Community College.
 
They have kept classes small to have relationship with professors to help kids be successful.
 
They have a partnership with CU Boulder in engineering programs. They get a degree from CU at CMU.
 
You can audit classes if interested. They have the lowest growth of tuition fees in past 10 years through foundation and scholarships. They received $72 million in financial aid yearly.
 
Les called for a motion for meeting to end at 10:50. Sue Slaughter made the motion and John Meade concurred.
 
Meeting adjourned!

nOVEMBER 2019 MINUTES

11/13/2019
​Pres. Bob Noble started the meeting at am. Terry Adcock and Diana Mead moved and accepted the minutes from last month. Adele Matera gave the Treasurers report and started off by saying “we have money!” Last month we had $6042.61 with deposits of $708.25 and spent $328.12 for a total of $7422.74. We gained .75 in interest! We also have $6550.65 in money market. Alec Fournier and Ruth Anna moved and accepted report. Bob recognized the coffee committee of two – Tizza Chace and Les Slowik. Thanks for the wonderful goodies and hot coffee! There were no new visitors and no new members today. Linda Ash of We Care left Bob a note to tell us she sent out one card last month to Kennie Ruth Gimple for surgery. Douglas Grodt sprinted up the podium to remind us he is a Colorado native plant master. April 22nd is the wildflower walk in the monument. They will meet at the Devils Kitchen picnic area. We need to get a little rain for the hike to happen. If we don’t get rain he may have to postpone til May. There will be lunch after at La Cabra on Broadway. Ginny Baikewicz talked about the upcoming March 18th alpaca tour. Lunch after will be at 357 Grill in Palisade. Also please bring correct change of $2.00 for the tour. Janet Johnson is taking signups for Highline Lake clean up. She took a hand vote for dates of Mon. May 18th or Tues. May 19th. Tuesday won out. This is our community service event that Newcomers sponsors. They will meet at 9:00 am; give out directions on where to pick up trash etc. A barbeque is followed about noon. She will also need folks to purchase the food and some help at the barbeque. Pres. Bob Noble asked if anyone was interested in running for any Board position. There were no responses so he asked for a proposal to accept the Board as is with the exception of 2nd Vice President which is currently empty. Ruth Anna proposed to accept the Board and Janet Johnson seconded it. All were in favor! Bob talked about the 2nd Vice President role as having two roles- one that orchestrates out of town excursions and one that serves as a Board tie breaker if needed. Wayne McCalla held that position for several years and we appreciate his work very much. Rolf Ganahl has stepped forward to fill that position. Rolf and his wife Donna are fairly new to Newcomers. He started the cross country ski group and has gotten very involved quickly. Bob made the motion to accept Rolf as our new 2nd Vice President and Nancy Hollmaier seconded. The group concurred. Congratulations Rolf! Suzan Fournier reiterated a job well done by Wayne and thank you for all the years you served. Bob introduced the new Exec Director for Museums of Western Colorado, Kaia Michaelis . She is head of Dinosaur Journey Fruita, Cross Orchard, and Museum of the West. She mentioned several things they have coming up: Easter egg hunt at Cross Orchards, Speakeasy happening May 8th, digging for fossils for over 6 yrs. old – you get to dig with a paleontologist and various trips they plan such as going to Santa Fee with Matt Darling the curator. They need volunteers to help with the school tours at the Western Museum. Cross Orchards could use help with victory garden, train, old tractors etc. Some things need some love and care. There is a special exhibit of art works thru the end of this year. The Dinosaur museum will be having an exhibit about the dodo bird. Financial health of the museums is good. They used to get more money from the county but that has been dialed back. There are some maintenance issues coming up that need addressed. They will apply for grants and may do a capital campaign for funds. They are predicting somewhere between $150,000 to $300,000 for the boiler and repairs. Grand Junction NewcPres. Bob Noble started the meeting at am. Terry Adcock and Diana Mead moved and accepted the minutes from last month. Adele Matera gave the Treasurers report and started off by saying “we have money!” Last month we had $6042.61 with deposits of $708.25 and spent $328.12 for a total of $7422.74. We gained .75 in interest! We also have $6550.65 in money market. Alec Fournier and Ruth Anna moved and accepted report. Bob recognized the coffee committee of two – Tizza Chace and Les Slowik. Thanks for the wonderful goodies and hot coffee! There were no new visitors and no new members today. Linda Ash of We Care left Bob a note to tell us she sent out one card last month to Kennie Ruth Gimple for surgery. Douglas Grodt sprinted up the podium to remind us he is a Colorado native plant master. April 22nd is the wildflower walk in the monument. They will meet at the Devils Kitchen picnic area. We need to get a little rain for the hike to happen. If we don’t get rain he may have to postpone til May. There will be lunch after at La Cabra on Broadway. Ginny Baikewicz talked about the upcoming March 18th alpaca tour. Lunch after will be at 357 Grill in Palisade. Also please bring correct change of $2.00 for the tour. Janet Johnson is taking signups for Highline Lake clean up. She took a hand vote for dates of Mon. May 18th or Tues. May 19th. Tuesday won out. This is our community service event that Newcomers sponsors. They will meet at 9:00 am; give out directions on where to pick up trash etc. A barbeque is followed about noon. She will also need folks to purchase the food and some help at the barbeque. Pres. Bob Noble asked if anyone was interested in running for any Board position. There were no responses so he asked for a proposal to accept the Board as is with the exception of 2nd Vice President which is currently empty. Ruth Anna proposed to accept the Board and Janet Johnson seconded it. All were in favor! Bob talked about the 2nd Vice President role as having two roles- one that orchestrates out of town excursions and one that serves as a Board tie breaker if needed. Wayne McCalla held that position for several years and we appreciate his work very much. Rolf Ganahl has stepped forward to fill that position. Rolf and his wife Donna are fairly new to Newcomers. He started the cross country ski group and has gotten very involved quickly. Bob made the motion to accept Rolf as our new 2nd Vice President and Nancy Hollmaier seconded. The group concurred. Congratulations Rolf! Suzan Fournier reiterated a job well done by Wayne and thank you for all the years you served. Bob introduced the new Exec Director for Museums of Western Colorado, Kaia Michaelis . She is head of Dinosaur Journey Fruita, Cross Orchard, and Museum of the West. She mentioned several things they have coming up: Easter egg hunt at Cross Orchards, Speakeasy happening May 8th, digging for fossils for over 6 yrs. old – you get to dig with a paleontologist and various trips they plan such as going to Santa Fee with Matt Darling the curator. They need volunteers to help with the school tours at the Western Museum. Cross Orchards could use help with victory garden, train, old tractors etc. Some things need some love and care. There is a special exhibit of art works thru the end of this year. The Dinosaur museum will be having an exhibit about the dodo bird. Financial health of the museums is good. They used to get more money from the county but that has been dialed back. There are some maintenance issues coming up that need addressed. They will apply for grants and may do a capital campaign for funds. They are predicting somewhere between $150,000 to $300,000 for the boiler and repairs. 
​

September 2019 Minutes
09/11/2019


Meeting was called to order by Bob Noble President. Bob had a moment of silence to remember the victims of Sept. 11th 18 years ago. Motion to accept last months minutes was made by Jerry Norton and I.P. Potyondy.
Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report. Interest rate is down! However we have $6550.21 in money market and $4791.23 in checking. The barbeque was subsidized for $510.00. There were 108 folks signed up and only 4 could not make it. If you can’t attend a function make sure you let someone know so we can try to get your money back in a timely manner. 
Bob let us know the club purchased a 100 cup coffee pot and a pop up tent. The coffee pot is left at the church and the tent is at someones home. It is here for club members to use. If you would want to use them, contact Bob and you can make arrangements for pick up. Also don’t forget the art center has a garage sale on Sept. 28th. Get with Carolyn White to make arrangements for dropping off your items.
Minutes to accept the Treasurers report were accepted.
Bob announced our speakers for the morning were from the Grand Mesa Observatory. Nancy McGuire, who does the PR for them spoke to us about it and had a slide presentation. It is only 2 years old. The owner of the property and only investor in it is a gentleman named John Mansur and wife Vicki who reside in Florida. He has financed the facility on his property. Terry Hancock moved here from Michigan and is the Director. They have 6 telescopes on the property of which 5 are being operated and one is leased out to a company to track space debris. 
They help to bring STEM and astronomy education to the Grand Valley. It was approved as a non –profit organization in Oct. 2017. They signed an agreement with CMU to have an Air Force Academy telescope as well. There are only 12 of these types of telescopes in the world.
They have public events regularly and go to schools for presentations and other groups.
They do have private rentals and subscription services for people who want to process their observations.
They can operate from anywhere in the world.
Their mission is to provide education in Western Colorado and also around the world. 
You can go to grandmesaobservatory.com to view the opening of the facility and get other information. Many of their pictures have been in National Geographic, Astronomy magazine and other venues.
The next public event will be on Nov. 25th. It will start at dusk and offer tours. They are at 6100 feet in altitude. 
John and Vicki have been the sole funders for this project thus far. However due to money spent on septic systems, getting ADA porta potties, parking areas etc. and other upgrades they really need other funding and help. 
It was a very interesting and enlightening presentation.
Linda Ash from We Care gave out 2 names of people that have passed away. They were members of Newcomers for many years. They were Daniel Casman and Karen Hayes. One card was sent to Sue Slaughter on the passing of her father.
Bob announced the Bar B Que was a big success. The food was wonderful and attendance great. It was a very nice event.
Jerry Norton updated the Holiday Party on Dec. 11th. It will be at Masonic Lodge. He and Alec Fournier met with the caterer. There are 3 main dinner options – prime rib being cut and served and by them, chicken cordon bleu and a vegetarian dish. A formal proposal is being expected very soon. The ticket price looks to be about $20.00 at this time. Nancy Hollmaier is heading up the centerpiece committee. Lorelei Olgine offered to help her out. Nancy said she is still talking with Ann Repka who has chaired that committee in past years to get suggestions from her. She will have more information next month.

Bob said someone had asked about pickleball at the last meeting. If anyone is interested let him know and you can meet and decide on more details about this group.
New Business – John Meade spoke up to say the Happy Hours are getting so big sometimes it is hard to hear even the person sitting next to you. He suggested returning to Double Tree Hotel since the room was dedicated to just our group.
Kaia is trained in art history and has decades of experience and several art museums as well as other facilities. Chautauqua is planned for Sept. 5- 12th . This year will be about the 19th Amendment and All That Jazz is the theme. Cowboy Poetry is in early Nov. There will even be a band from Australia this year. It was a very good presentation with a lot of information. Thank you! The raffle was very light but a couple of good concert tickets were donated. Pres. Bob Noble closed the meeting at 11:00 am. Alec Fournier accepted the motion to end and Donald Leche seconded. The club concurred. Meeting adjourned!
Suzan Fournie

August 2019 Minutes
08/14/2019

​Pres. Bob Noble called meeting to order at 10:00 am. Minutes were accepted as published in newsletter by Jerry Norton and Susan Norton.
 
Susan Norton gave Treas. Report. We have $6548.33 in Money market and $6229.88 in checking. We acquired $31.00 in raffle money last month. Report was accepted and approved. 
 
Bob recognized the coffee committee for the usual goodies provided. Always delicious! 
 
Our speakers today were Officer Matt Koch and Officer Boyer. They addressed what to do in case of a shooter situation. They are on the communication Resource Unit with the police dept. Police departments now are first responders on average of 1-3 minutes and SWAT is 10-15 minutes. Their advice is basically: 1) Run 2.) Hide 3.) Fight (if you are confronted). Try hiding somewhere there is little visibility with windows and able to lock from the inside. Stay in a corner to reduce visibility as well. They were at the MindSpring’s threat situation. They set up a command post outside. Once threat stops they clear every room. As people file out they are questioned to make sure they aren’t part of it. 
 
About 85% of the force has been trained in crisis intervention training. It was a helpful and interesting presentation.
 
Ethel Oatman introduced our new members. They are: Tib & Lorelei Olgine from Michigan, Vance & Lori Franks from Centennial, Michael & Lynne Nelson from Dayton, Oh, Marianne & Ralph Douglas from Tampa, and Joyce Marston from Arizona. Welcome and welcome to our visitors!
 
We Care Report given by Linda Ash: She sent out 4 cards this past month to people who are ill or have had deaths in their family. Cards were sent to Becky Chesnut on passing of her sister, Bob Handford on the passing of his brother, Susan Radka who had knee replacement and Larry and Ruth Anna whose brother passed away. Our condolences to you and also speedy recovery on surgery.
 
Nothing new from Carolyn White to report on the newsletter.
 
Web Masters Committee was not in attendance.
 
Janet Johnson reminded everyone of the signups for Dinner Club. You can see her after meeting with any questions. The first all group meeting is Sept. 14th at Larry and Ruth Anna’s home. 
 
Suzan Fournier reminded everyone of the new Knitting & Crochet club. First meeting is at her home on Sept. 16th at 1:30. It will be on the 3rd Monday of the month. Anyone interested in learning these skills or sharing their expertise is welcome. Please call to let her know if you plan on attending.
 
Bob Noble said someone had approached him about a pickle ball group. If you are interested see Bob and he can fill you in on the details.
 
Ken Alevy reminded folks of the deadline of Aug. 26th for the Labor Day barbecue sign up. Let them know if you want the vegetarian entrée or have any dietary restrictions. The location is to ADA code and accessible. It is on Sept. 2nd at 5 pm. Thanks Kenny and Faith for doing this!
 
Bob said Sue Slaughter who is heading up the Holiday Party sent him an email. The email asked the members if they were interested in an upscale menu for a few dollars more. Before we took a hand count for that result Susan Norton reminded us that the club will be subsidizing some of that money. Ken asked about the problems that occurred last year with not enough food/or food being
Grand Junction Newcomers Club – Minutes, August 14, 2019
 
disproportionally served. Susan assured us that issue is being taken care of and will not happen this year. More information will follow about the cost and the menu type. 
 
The holiday party is Dec. 11th at either 5:30 or 6:00 pm. That will be determined at a later date. Bob said someone needs to take over Ann Repka’s duties of handling the centerpieces. Please see Bob about that. Also need a volunteer to be on the “decision making committee” which is gathering the information to be decided upon by several folks.
 
They have several caterers that are available. Linda Ash said Berna B’s is a good caterer and maybe they should talk to them.
 
Lunch & tours report –Martha Potyondy said the sept. Tour is at Callahan crematory. There will be a slide show, history of the business and information about the demographics of the Grand Valley. There will be a tour except for the refrigerated area and prep area. Lunch to follow at International Buffet. This is Sept. 18th at 10:00 a.m.
 
I.P. Potyondy said next Wed they are going to VA. All spaces are filled up for that. Entrance is off North Ave. Please be on time. Lunch at Fiesta Guadalajara afterwards.
 
I.P. also said the tour committee needs a couple more volunteers. A couple of spaces are now open and more may open up. This is a committee of 6 which seems to be a good number. Please see him for more information.
 
Jerry Norton brought up that since we have so many new members maybe it would be ok to go back to some of the places that were so popular. I.P. agreed to that.
 
Bob Noble reiterated that without volunteers our club could not function. With all the groups and activities we have volunteering is critical. It is a great way to make friends as well.
 
Susan Norton performed the raffle effortlessly as per usual! Thank you Susan! Susan also reminded the group of the concerts at Two Rivers Winery benefiting the Art Center. Next Tuesday is Bryan Savage – a renewed saxist and Soul Habit on Sept. 10th that plays some funk and rock. She also asked the new members to make sure they put down their zip codes on their form.
 
Art Center is having a garage sale on Sept. 28th. Please see Susan Norton or Carolyn White for donations.
 
Les Slowik reminded folks to take home some baked goodies. 
 
David Austin made a motion to adjourn and Diana Mead concurred.
 
Meeting ended at 11:13.
- Suzan Fournier, Secretary

July 2019 Minutes
​07/10/2019

​Pres Bob Noble opened up the meeting at 10 am. Ruth Anna made a correction to last month’s minutes stating she and Larry Anna were now going to be mailing out the newsletter. Minutes were accepted by Bill Roberts and Ruth Anna. 
 
Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report and assured us we still had money. There is $6577.86 in checking, $6545.96 in money market and we earned $53.00 in raffle money. 
 
Bob Noble recognized the coffee committee Tizza Chace and Les Slowik. Thanks for all the goodies per usual! 
 
Bob introduced the speaker for today who is Stan Zygmunt. He represents New Dimensions. Stan let us know it is New Dimensions Life Long Learning Institute which is a nonprofit associated with CMU. It is a noncredit short term learning program in the fall and spring. There is a diverse curriculum that can be in different locations. Some of the classes might be in geology, history, yoga, learning poker etc. There were 80 different classes by 75 instructors. 
 
At the end of the term they ask for comments and have the student rate 3 of their top classes and give suggestions for future planning. They take a 2 month break to access the classes and which were very popular. All positions are volunteer positions. August 28th they wrap up their planning for that year and then post online. Registration is Sept. 13th and closes on Sept. 20th. There is a $75.00 per person fee and you can sign up for as many classes as you want. Stan did advise to enroll your most desired classes in order in case you get bumped due to class size. They will put you on a waiting list. There were 330 students last time. He stated on average people sign up for 6-8 classes. They need instructors for various topics. If you have knowledge of a subject matter please let them know. There are requirements such as keeping it a neutral position on various subject types. 
 
It was a great presentation and very helpful. 
 
Ethel Oatman of Membership Committee let us know there were no new members or visitors. That’s a first! However Doug Grodt stood up to say he had a guest that was a newcomer in 1962. 
 
Linda Ash from We Care group was not in attendance. Bob let us know she sent out a get well card to Lois Leach who had foot surgery and Becky Chesnut who’s sister passed away. Our condolences go out to Becky. 
 
Carolyn White of the Newsletter stated there was nothing to report. 
 
Webmasters Jim and Pam Hughes were not in attendance. 
 
Wayne McCalla said 12 folks were signed up for the Aspen festival. There is room for a $60.00 room in Glenwood if someone wants to sign up. However seats for the music might be limited. 
 
Doug Grodt, who is a Colorado Native Plant Master, told us 2 weeks from now there is a tour in the Grand Mesa for wildflowers. You might see about 40 different types of plants. He will go scout out the area he will take you to.  They meet in Clifton and carpool to the Mesa. They stop at about 3 locations then will lunch afterwards at a lodge or somewhere else. Be prepared for mosquitos. They go rain or shine as well. 
 
The Thursday hiking group will be meeting in Coronado shopping center and go to Jumbo Lake for a 3-5 mile hike. 
 
Martha Potyondy of lunch and tour group let us know next month is a tour of the VA Hospital. They just started these tours and should be great. They will lunch afterwards at Guadalajara. That will be Aug. 21st at 10 am. 
 
Nancy Channell was not present to report on Armchair Travelers. 
 
Janet Johnson of the Dinner Club group reminded us that will start in September and lasts until May or June. There are 3 times a year they meet as a group. But the other months they meet at someone’s house in a group of about 8. Anyone is welcome to join. There is a $10.00 per person signup fee. There is also a sign up sheet on the
Grand Junction Newcomers Club – Minutes, July 10, 2019
 
website. Dues need to be in by Aug. 7th. The committee gives you the menu and the host will let you know what you are to contribute. This is a great way to meet folks on a more personal level. 
 
Janet also mentioned she just came from Tennis club which meets Mon, Wed.and Fri in the am. Let her know if you have any questions about that. 
 
Bob mentioned he was impressed with the dinner club how it is set up and getting folks together. He and Carolyn were members for a long time. 
 
Les Slowik of the Happy Hour committee mentioned how great the VA is for him and the tour should be really good. Grand Junctions VA is number 37 out of 200. Very impressive! Les said Happy hour that week will be at Edgewater at 4:30, and the next one will be at the old Dos Hombres which is ow La Cabra. In August they will meet at Edgewater, Ale House and Boston’s. 
 
Suzan Fournier addressed the group in asking for a show of hands who would be interested in just a knitting/crochet group. There is currently a stitchery group which encompasses more crafts. There was a show of hands of about 5 folks interested. Please let Suzan know if you are interested or have questions.   Bob said there will be a booth at Farmers market on July 18th. If anyone wants to join the booth to help spread the word and answer basic questions about Newcomers let him know or show up. They will have brochures to hand out and water bottles. 
 
He also let us knows that about 12 folks showed up for the July 4th parade. 
 
Susan Norton handled the raffle for the morning. 
 
Bob mentioned another hidden gem in Colorado is Eureka – an observatory in Grand Mesa. He and Carolyn toured it and thought it was wonderful for star gazing. 2 guys started it and lease out the observatory time to different people. They track space junk and old satellites. Aug. 2nd there is a star gazing event. You can find info at grandmesaobservatory.com. It’s at Camp creek side of Mesa off Lands End Rd. 
 
Bob asked for a motion to adjourn. Don Leche motioned to adjourn and Dave Austin seconded.    - Suzan Fournier, Secretary

June 2019 Minutes
​06/12/2019


Pres. Bob Noble called meeting to
order at 10 am. 
Last month’s minutes published in the newsletter were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton said we have plenty of money: $6,543.95 in our money market and $6,465.67
Tizza Chace had another delicious array of baked goods along with fresh coffee and other beverages. Members are reminded they are welcome to take home what isn’t immediately consumed.
We had four new members today: Jana Delcamp, Bob and Shirley Gochee, and Shirley Schultz. Current membership stands at around 340. 
Susan expressed appreciation to the bridge groups for verifying that all players are members. She asks that all group leaders make sure their people are members. It’s a sad situation when club members are turned away because a tennis court, bowling alley, or other activity is full but with non-members.
 Linda Ash sent out We Care cards to Gene and Arlene Albers on the death of their daughter; Pam Hughes, whose sister died, and the family of Virginia Walker, a past member who died recently.
Carolyn White asked for help in mailing the printed copies of the newsletter since Donna Gabriel won’t be able to after she and Ralph move away to be closer to their son. Ruth Anna offered to help with the 60-some copies each month.
Next week’s Lunch and Tour will be at the fire station. I.P. Potyondy said they could accommodate more people for the chest compression only CPR and AED training. In July Doug Grodt will lead a wildflower walk on the Grand Mesa. This will be a week later than usual, July 24.
Wayne McCalla has about ten people signed up for the Aspen music outing. He notes that during the summer Colorado has more world-class musicians than anywhere else in the world. Tickets are still available for “A Little
Night Music.” Details are in the June newsletter, and you can give him a call as well for information.
Les Slowik said happy hours will regularly be at Edgewater Brewery on the first Thursday of the month and the Feisty Pint on the third Thursday. This met with some objection to the Feisty Pint because of the noise level. Change may happen.
We will march in the July 4 parade, assembling before the 10 am start. Participants are encouraged to wear patriotic colors and, perhaps, goofy hats. We will also have a booth at the July 18 farmers market. You need not sign up for either, but Bob Noble would appreciate a headsup. Contact him for more information on either event.
Rolf Ganahl is interested in getting together a crosscountry ski group. In addition to outing on the Grand Mesa, the group could function as an equipment exchange and offer advice to newbies. The newsletter will carry and item to spread the word before the next season.
June birthdays were recognized.
Other announcements and news –
Two holiday parties ago someone told Ruth Anna of a great grout cleaner.  She needs that information, or a recommendation by someone else.
Teresa Ann Bell announced a special at Royce-Hurst. During “kitten month” adult cats can be adopted for just $15 (normally $100).
Joyce Krenson is a certified Bob Ross instructor. She is offering members a 20% discount on classes in June and July ($40, discounted from $50). All supplied are provided, and you will go home with an original oil painting you’ve created.
Marifrances Kelly, Volunteer Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity, gave a brief presentation on its programs. Many of us have already volunteered with Habitat. Right now Habitat is working on four house in Mesa County, Hoffman Country Estates is off D Rd, between 30 and 31 Rds, if you’d like to see what a typical three- or fourbedroom house looks like. Home-owner applicants put in about 500 sweat equity hours, not necessarily swinging a hammer. They are also supported with educational programs in finance, maintenance and home ownership. A handout gave many details, and the website habitatmesa.org is very comprehensive.
Meeting adjourned at 11 am

May 2019 Minutes
​05/08/2019

Pres. Bob Noble called meeting to order at 10 am. 
Last month’s minutes were approved by Del Wharton and Jerry Norton. Treasurer report was given by Bob Noble in Susan Norton’s absence. We have $6541.73 in MM, $6576.05 in Checking and received $56.00 in last month’s raffle. In Susan Norton’s words we have money. Les Slowik and David Austin approved the Treasurers report.
Les Slowik gave a note of thanks and appreciation to Susan Norton for the balances but also noted she writes a lot of checks, receives money and has other duties. There is much more work that goes into Treasurer and perhaps should be mentioned at meeting what that entails.
Bob Noble recognized the coffee committee of one. He asked about the coffee pot and Tizza Chace said the church fixed the coffee pot. Les said we also have 2 from the American Legion.
Ethel Oatman stated we have 4 visitors today. Welcome all! We gained 2 new members - Steve and Sue Likovich. Welcome as well! Bob thanked the visitors for attending and also let us know there is a membership list at Ethel’s table if you want one. 
Linda Ash, of the We Care committee sent out several cards last month. She also let us know she had shoulder replacement surgery but is doing well. Cards sent to:
 Ben Lewis – who is very ill  Betty Jacobson – hip surgery  Charles Miller who passed away
 And JoAnn Mullen who was a long time member also passed.
 
Bob asked Carolyn White of the newsletter of one committee how it was going and she replied “fine.” Succinct is her MO. (My words not Bob’s.)
Kay Klausmeier from Lunch and Tour committee let us know next week is the 10:00 am Mind Spring’s tour. There is training involved as well. It is called QPR – question, persuade and refer – a quick way to help someone in distress. They are located behind Texas Roadhouse on North Ave. There are 6 spaces left.
I.P. Potyondy reported on the lifesaving training on June 19th at GJ fire department. This is no direct contact CPR training. Then they will be going to Puffer belly’s for lunch. 
Les Slowik announced needing requests to help run the Holiday party. He also mentioned that the church we meet in has been great for us. They are having a Repair Café they started. If you have a skill of any sort – upholstery, wood working, etc. let them know.
Linda Ash said Meals on Wheels desperately needs some drivers on Rte 11. THEY NEED SUBS! Put your name down for Rte. 11 if you call them. Please help them out. Thank you! Bob said that route is almost 100% staffed by newcomers. It is an easy job and only requires about hour to hour and half to do. It’s a great volunteer activity. Linda said Bill Hill started it. Linda has been doing this for 16 years. But we need subs so other folks can take some time off.
Armchair Traveler was not there to report anything. It’s a joint program hosted by the library and is very popular. They get speakers to share their travels. It’s at the community room in library and runs October – April.
There are 2 events this summer we need help with staffing – he has a couple volunteers for the Farmers Market on July 18th. If interested please see Bob. You just answer questions and chat with folks about our group.
July 4th is the parade we march in for marketing as well. Bob will reserve space for the newcomers but only has a few people interested as of right now. You walk no more than a mile. Les Slowik said we need volunteers for the summer picnic and holiday part. No date set for the party yet but we need workers.
Our speaker for today is Kerry Graves who is Administrative Coordinator for visitor center in GJ. It is all volunteers at that center except for 8 paid staff members. You don’t have to have lived here forever to do this. Visitors come from all over the world. This is a great opportunity to meet people. She brought some visitors guide and brochures if you want one. Part of volunteering is to work special events – registration, timers for sports event, sign up table etc. 4 times a year they go to places to see = Gateway canyon, rafting or to see horses etc. They have training such as active shooter, CPR etc.
Time requirement is in 3 hour shifts and may increase some in summer. They are open 7 days a week. We are funded by the Lodging tax and Fruita is funded by State of Colorado and promote the State. 
In a day they may get as many as 30-80 during busy season. Google is a great tool if you can’t find the information. She will put you with a seasoned volunteer to help you out. She likes to have 75 volunteers and currently only has 63.
The raffle was conducted by Suzan Fournier and many nice things were given out. And BTW Suzan did an awesome job if she must say so herself! Les reminded folks to put away chairs and take home goodies!
The meeting was adjourned at 11 am with a motion by Diana Mead. 
Suzan Fournier, secretar

April 2019 Minutes
​04/10/2019

Pres. Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am. There will be no speaker today as we are tending to club business. As you notice we have changed the seating in the room so more people can hear and not be stuck in the back row.
Last months minutes were approved by Nancy Channell and Jerry Norton.
Susan Norton gave the Treasurers report. We passed the $3.00 interest on our account! We have $712.27 in checking, $6535.35 in money market and last month’s raffle brought in $69.00.
Current membership is 329. We gained 31 new members this year and have had 179 renewals. Susan has a book and video on Italy if anyone wants it. They no longer need it.
Motion made by Bob to accept the minutes. John Mead and Bill Roberts accepted the report.
Pres. Bob Noble recognized Susan Norton’s past 10 years of service as Treasurer and Tizza Chace for all the goodies she bakes for club meetings. Our coffee pot that we use from the church is not working. We need to replace that one for the church and buy one for the club. Ruth Anna made a motion to spend the money to get new coffee pots.
Ethel Oatman let us know we have 2 new members and several new visitors. New members are Joyce and David Krenson.
Linda Ash reported on the We Care group. A woman that was a past member has passed away – Isabelle Hanson. She was 100 years old. Linda sent out cards to Jim Hughes, Bill Grant, Mary Greenhill who passed away, Mary Clare Williams and Diana Mead. Linda let us know her job is to send out cards to those who are ill, have had surgery or passed away.
Carolyn White reported on the newsletter. She has gotten some corrections on the directory. She will get the digital version sent out and the ones mailed out will go out in early May after they are done traveling. Carolyn was recognized for putting out the newsletter for so long. It is a laborious process and does take
some time. Thanks to Carolyn for keeping us all informed with the newsletter. Make sure you read it! 
Bob said because of the acoustics in the room we are pursuing the idea of purchasing another microphone so we can hear folks better in the meeting. 
Webmaster Jim Hughes said someone was trying to charge us for something and he doesn’t know why. He is looking into it since they got a late notice.
Lunch and tour group – Susan Smith let us know owner of Highlands Distillery had a family emergency and had to cancel the upcoming tour. She will send out an email to everyone on the list to let them know it is cancelled.
Dave Jacoby who is heading up the camping group said they have about 8 or 10 couples who are interested. May 5th they are headed to Rifle gap and June 16th to Ridgeway. This is not just an RV group but anyone who enjoys the outdoors whether tent camping etc. It is about the comradery and not about what you are staying in.
May 15th lunch and tour going to Mind Springs at  10 am. They are offering training for QPR- question, persuade, and refer. There is no charge – you can get a certificate. Research shows people don’t self-refer so the goal is to locate and identify folks in our own environment that are in crisis and need help. They will show you around Mind Springs and then the group will go to Ale House at 11:45 for lunch.
Doug Grodt let us know that snowshoeing is over for the season. They had a great hike at Fisher Towers. Upcoming hikes will be at Kokopelli which is an easy 3.6 mile hike, 300’ gain. They will meet at Welcome Center April 18th, Rabbit Valley is a 4.8 mile hike April 25th. Someone mentioned the Welcome Center is closed so they will probably meet at Dinosaur Museum.
Nancy Channell thanked all the people for the BMI tour. There were 18 on the wait list. They can’t do another one this year though at that location. In June there will be a CPR training on Wed. 19th. You can sign up at May meeting. This is a compression only CPR.
On April 15th at Armchair Traveler Terry Johnson will finish up their 4 month world cruise that he and Janet took. If anyone wants to share a trip they took let Nancy know.
Martha & I.P. Potyondy have done a great job on the lunch and tours. It is a lot of work they have performed over the past 5 years but they are ready for someone to take over for them. We need someone to step up and inquire about this job. It is a great program we offer for our members and highly attended.
Susan Smith said she had received several calls from people who aren’t able to get to meetings to sign up for the tours and are very frustrated. They are asking for a way to include them by leaving some spaces open for them, publish it in newsletter ahead of time etc. Martha said the group would discuss this and see what they can come up with.
Happy hour has had a change and will meet at Strayhorn Grill in Fruita on April 18th.
Bob Noble recognized Les Slowik for his past 2 years of service and presented him with a gift from the club. Thank you Les for your dedication over the years!
Kenny & Faith Alevy have worked on the Labor Day picnic for the past several years and are willing to continue to do so. However we need some volunteers to help them. Please let them know if you are willing to contribute to this.
The Holiday Party needs volunteers as well. Susan and Jerry Norton have been on that committee in the past. Jerry will stay on to help but Susan is resigning from this. Please get with Bob Noble to get your name on the list to help. Ann Repka was not at meeting but someone mentioned she may not be working the party either as she has done in the past. It is a catered event and lots of fun. 
We will have a booth at the June 22nd Farmers market to answer questions and just give out information regarding our club. Les has the banner and black and white brochures we can use. We also participate in the July 4th parade. Folks walk with some signs that advertise our dinners, hiking club etc. 
Mary Beth Davis shared information on the needlecraft group she heads. Currently there are 17 members. If you have any kind of needlecraft you have an interest in give her a call. This is a low key group that enjoys sharing their passions/hobbies. They meet
2nd Monday of the month at individual’s homes and break for summers.
Janet Mayerik and Shirley Herber are in charge of the bridge group. Shirley is coordinator for the city bridge and Janet heads the Redlands group.
Marilyn Grafe coordinates another group. They meet at St. Mary’s Pavilion among the patients and other players. They have 2 or 3 tables. Let her know if you are interested and she will put you on the sub group then you can work in that way. On Saturday mornings at the Senior Center you can get instructions on bridge at 8 am.
Janet Johnson is coordinator for the dinner group. They meet once a month at different homes. They meet from Sept. to May. There are 42 in that group right now. They have 3 times when everyone gets together. Hostess provides main course, the others provide side dishes. This is a great way to meet people on more of a one to one basis. They accept new members anytime.
Janet also mentioned after Labor Day she will see if the folks at Highline Canal need our help in cleaning up the area. 
Linda Ash organizes the ladies golf group that meets every Tuesday. You don’t have to be a great golfer just enjoy the game and meet new people. No one is checking your score either! They play at Adobe golf course. There are about 8 or 9 in the group currently.
Tim Donovan has lived here just 4 years and he is trying to organize the men’s golf group to become a little more structured. They meet at Tiara Rado. He would like to know ahead of time who will be signing up so he can let them know and set up a tee time for everyone. Please get with Tim if you want to play.
Bob Noble got an email from the Senior Theatre people. They have 3 events coming up:  Beaconfest for later this month, May 10th a fundraiser at Barnes and Noble and June 22nd the theatre needs people to man a table telling tickets. Contact them if you are interested in helping out at any of these.
Jim Hughes announced wine group luncheon is next Monday at Chez Lena. It is $30/person for lunch and wine. There will be steak, crab or pork loin.
Susan Norton got the raffle accomplished. Pres. Bob Noble adjourned the meeting at 11:06. David Austin and Wendy Bain approved the motion to dismiss.
Suzan Fournier, secretar

March 2019 Minutes
03/13/2019


First Vice-President Katie Sullivan called the meeting to order at 10:05 am. The slight delay was due to a special treat, a performance by Tony Weadock’s bluegrass band Crabgrass at the end of our social half hour. 
The minutes of the Feb. 13 meeting were accepted without comment.
Treasurer Susan Norton stated we have $6,621.27 in our checking account and $6,537.36 in our money market (which yielded almost $3 in interest in the past month). 
Among the 100+ attendees were six guests and seven new members: Sue Hughey; Neil and Monica Kraynek; Sam and Diana Peacock; and Tom and Carla Sherrick.
There was no We Care report in Linda Ash’s absence.
Plans are for a wine tasting on April 15, according to Jim Hughes. Anyone interested in this and other wine group events should email Jim to be on the email list.
With no other officer candidates coming forth, the following were (re)elected by unanimous voice vote: Bob Noble, president; Les Slowik, 1st vice-president; Wayne McCalla, 2nd vice-president; Susan Norton, treasurer; Suzan Fournier, secretary.
Several announcements of community interest were made.
CMU will hold its student showcase on April 19 in which undergraduate and graduate students present projects that demonstrate creativity, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. This is an all-day event for which judges are needed. Bob Noble will pass along to a CMU coordinator the names and emails of those interested in helping.
Sunset Slope Quilters will hold a quilt show at Mesa Mall in the old Sports Authority space March 22 and 23.
Marilyn Montoya recommended Bustang, a CDOToperated bus service to Denver and other Colorado
cities. She had several copies available of the bus schedules and fares. You can also find information at www.RideBustang.com.
Marilyn also reminded us of the Fruita Visitors Center as an information source for all of Colorado, not just Grand Junction and the immediate area.
Nancy Channell had flyers on the tables about a Daughters of the American Revolution spring card and games party benefit. It will be on April 16, from  11:30 am to 3:30 pm, at the Moose Lodge. Tickets are $10.
The March 20 BLM tour has maxed out at 20 people, though 36 have signed up. Nancy will contact those on the wait list if the Lunch and Tour organizers are able to set up another tour this year.
Susan Smith is new on the L&T committee and is heading up the April 17 outing. It will cover both Highlands Distillery and Belli Fiori Lavender Farm, and finish with lunch at Pho 88.
Terry and Janet Johnson will present photos from their around the world cruise as the March and April Armchair Travelers shows.
Before the raffle, Susan Norton remarked that last month’s netted $80, a record. There were ten lucky winners (Pam Hughes twice).
Our guest speaker was Miranda Botts, a clinician and regional youth suicide prevention coordinator of MindSprings Health. The Grand Junction facility is the only psychiatric hospital serving the vast area between Denver and Salt Lake City. Its newly opened, beautiful building now has 64 beds, twice as many as before. Its mental health and substance abuse programs are funded primarily through donors, foundations and government grants (federal, state and local).
A serious concern is the high suicide rate in Mesa County. An initiate Miranda has begun is QPR (question, persuade and refer) training for 200 people. The goal is to get people to be comfortable enough to talk about suicide. Several people signed up at the end of the meeting to learn more about the training. You can learn more about MindSprings Health at www.mindspringshealth.org, and can email her at MBotts@MindSpringsHealth.org.
Meeting adjourned at 10:55 am

February 2019 Minutes
​02/13/2019

Pres. Les Slowik called meeting to order at 10:00 am. Motion for approval of January’s minutes were approved by Martha Potyondy and seconded by Nancy Channell. 
Treas. Susan Norton reported on the health of our accounts. This is the first year she has received a tax form for interest earned! There is $6314.15 in checking and $6535.35 in money market. $37.00 was earned in raffle money last month which pays for our goodies we eat each month.
She mentioned the club hasn’t had insurance coverage on the board members and club activities. She is getting us insurance for the next year. We will see how that goes.
Motion to accept Treasurers report was accepted by Jerry Norton and seconded by Terry Adcock. 
Pres. Les complimented Carolyn White on the continued service of putting out our newsletter and the many years she has done it. Susan Norton said if you don’t need it printed and mailed to let them know to cut down on expenses. Also, if you have an address change please put your new zip code on the form!
Les mentioned next month we will be voting on board positions. We welcome anyone that is interested to run
for any board position. Susan Norton also said that 100 people have not renewed their membership fees. Get in your money by end of March or risk being taken off the list!
There were 120 folks in attendance today!
Ernestine Campbell with Membership Committee reported Perlina McCombs as a new member. We had several visitors. Welcome to all!
Linda Ash with We Care committee was not there today but Deb Newlin let us know that Linda sent out the following cards for the past month:
Joanne Specht, Jack Wheeler, Becky Chesnut, Ben Lewis, Judy Dean, Judy Limon, Cynthia McCalla and Bell Robert.
Jim Hughes told us that Feb. 22nd is the wine and dinner get together at Chez Lena. IT is $22.68 /person and will present New Zealand Australian wines. The menu is chicken or beef short ribs.
Bob Noble let everyone know he is running for Pres. For next year. He was President for 4 year prior to Les Slowik and enjoyed it very much. He also has the greatest resource in the world and that is his wife Carolyn who can advise him of things in advance! He said it is a fun job and rewarding because he gets to meet everyone. Best benefit of club is you get to make friends. That’s his campaign promise.
Les had Susan Norton come up to tell everyone she will run again for Treasurer as she has done for many years. Too many to remember! 
Suzan Fournier said she will run again for Secretary as well. 
Les Slowik is running for 1st V.P. Katie Sullivan has decided not to run for that position again. Thank you Katie for your past work as 1st V.P.!
Les said other thing the club tries to do is get speakers for meetings. In the future we may have members vote on happy hour locations. We had a new location this past month. It was liked but was a little noisy and had a step that some folks had problems with. 
Wayne McCalla 2nd V.P. came up to discuss some trips he has planned. He thought 2nd V.P. sounded a bit like Inspector Clouseau. He said one of the functions was to handle out of town tours. Dennis

Pretti and he did this together for many years. New trip coming up is to Aspen July 11th. There are a couple musicians that are his favorites that will be doing a practice performance for the symphony. It is $70.00 for both performances. Another trip will be to Colorado Springs to the Air Force Academy. He is still working on that.
He has been doing this for years with the late Dennis Pretti. He said if anyone else is interested in doing this and running for 2nd V.P. he will be the first to vote for them. 
Angie with Up With People let us know that they will be in Grand Junction and doing a performance March 9th at 4 pm at the High School. There are 100 students from all over that travel, perform and do community work where they go. If you are interested in being a host and meeting new people let her know. 
Martha Potyondy reported the trip to Eureka Center is overbooked for this month. They will eat at Guadalajara afterwards. The March tour isn’t going to happen. The owners will be out of town. They are trying to find something else right now. The tour in April is to a distillery. More to follow. Les mentioned we have amazing businesses to tour right here.
Our speaker was Chris Thomas CEO of Community Hospital. Chris said he has been CEO for the past 11 years. Updates since being in the new hospital for the past 3 years – they have added 44 new providers. ½ of them are new to Grand Junction and the other half are docs that moved from private practice to hospital. A big addition was in ortho docs. Some general surgeons have come to them. The new philosophy with docs are they want a 4 day work week to balance work and family and to match their kids schedule especially if they go to Caprock school. They have grown 17% and now more than doubled. They now service 25% of the market. They did a consumer preference survey which 45% said they prefer Community to 42% to St. Mary’s. The challenge is on the revenue side of the business. They get reimbursed 13% less than St. Mary’s for Medicare which is a $6 million dollar impact. 60% of their business is Medicare. This affects their borrowing power because of the revenue side. They are paying 8 ¾% interest on building loan. They have looked at Univ. Utah and Centura to work with. Centura would pay off hospital debt and contribute quite a bit to oncology and building some new OR’s etc. Both
systems are associated with either Catholic or Adventist church. Since they do tubals and sterilization they decided on Centura to partner with. He was even told their CEO had to be a member of the Adventist Church. 
There is a confidentiality agreement til March 9th and then more information can be released. There are 12 board members Chris works with and they are all about the community and paying bills etc. There is not a big push for a for profit system. He said the first year they lost $6 million, 2nd year 1.5 million lost, 3rd year made $400,000 and just this past Jan. they made $600,000 due to the ortho docs that came over. The volume is now there to help the hospital.
Any new doc coming on with a group of docs takes 1218 months for that doc to start earning his keep so to speak. It falls on the hospital to offset his salary etc. for that time period. The other issue is the more years of education the more they are paid of course - $180$190,000 for starting docs salary in family practice, $500,00 for cardiologist and $500-$600,000 for urologists. He admitted primary care docs don’t get paid enough. They added 4 docs but had lost 2 of them. They want to ad 3-5 primary care docs every year and keep them! There are 2 new physicians that still can take patients. They do have to find a balance between Medicare and private ins. Patients. 
He said they really would like to get rid of having to fill out an application to get a primary care doc. They get referrals from people because they know Community will take them. It’s a double edged sword.
They do have a new dermatologist coming. She graduates in 2020!
Mesa County is the 9th most expensive county in the State! He felt it helped when they started delivery babies to have St. Mary’s be more competitive on fees and service. 
Talk to your state representatives for Community to have the same Medicare rates as St. Mary’s to be more competitive and fair. They are also bringing in more Nurse Practitioners. CMU started a PA school – they had 600 applicants and accepted 16! 
It was a very enlightening morning and thanks to Chris for his time!

Les recognized Feb. birthdays and reminded everyone of recycling and folding chairs and putting away.
John Mead made a motion for adjournment and David Austin seconded. Meeting adjourned at 11 am.

January 2019 Minutes
​01/09/2019

Pres. Les Slowik called meeting to order at 10 am. Last month’s minutes were approved by Jerry Norton and Bob Noble. 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave treasurers report: We have $6533.13 in money market, $4301.02 in checking and we got $2.94 in interest. Last month’s raffle was large - $76.00 which helps to pay for all the goodies that Tizza Chace makes.
132 were signed up for Christmas party and only a couple didn’t show up. The club subsidized $1186.00 towards tickets. There was a food issue but none the less everyone enjoyed the party. 
Treasurer’s report was accepted by Joan Robinson and Janice Shepherd. 
We had 3 visitors to our meeting today and 4 new members. They are: Shirley Callaway from Grand Junction, Marilyn Swanson from Littleton and Ben Lewis from St. Louis. Membership was reported from Ernestine Campbell.
Linda Ash from We Care welcomed back Joy Bush! A couple of cards were sent out: one to Cynthia McCalla who broke her pelvis and Joanne Specht who is very ill. Our thoughts and best wishes to them both.
Les Slowik announced he will be running for 1st Vice President, Bob Noble announced he will run for President again (Bob was President for 4 years prior to Les Slowik) , Suzan Fournier said she will stay as Secretary, Susan Norton will remain as Treasurer and Wayne McCalla will stay as 2nd Vice President. 
Dave Jacoby announced they are looking to put together a RV/camping group. Anyone interested can get ahold of Dave.
Two Rivers cribbage club is looking for more cribbage players as well.
John Neste mentioned that the current movie club is at maximum attendance. They meet in peoples home so they are maxed out. However several folks want to join so he said someone should come to one of their meetings to see how it is structured and then they could start another group and handle it as they want. Get ahold of John to set this up.
Douglas Grodt mentioned next week is the tour to the Federal BLM. It will be closed if the government is still shut down so there won’t be a tour. They are snowshoeing on the Mesa tomorrow. He went last week and the temperature was in the 30’s and very nice.
Martha Potyondy spoke on behalf of I.P. to announce on Feb. 20th the tour group will be touring Eureka at 10:30. It is at 7th and Kennedy. You can park right across street in the church parking lot. They will lunch at Fiesta Guadalajara. Also there is a $6.00 fee at Eureka.
Janice Shepherd is conducting this month’s Armchair travelers at the library on New Mexico. She and her husband have been there about 6 times. It will be this Monday the 14th at 6:30. Doors open at 6 to get a ticket to get a seat. Last months was sold out. It is becoming very popular. 
Joan Robinson wanted to thank everyone for their donations for the Salvation Army giving tree. It is near and dear to her heart. About 39 people were helped out and several hundreds of dollars donated for Joan to shop for them.
Les Slowik said that anyone marching in the Jan. 19th parade could add on something about the rec center if they wanted to advertise it.

Marty McDaneld (who is a Newcomer member) was our speaker on the upcoming ballot issue for a Rec Center for the City of Grand Junction. Dave Austin who is also a Newcomer member is the accounting guru for the group. Marty wanted to talk about the social aspects of the rec center. Statistics show that teens and seniors are at a high risk for suicide. The rec center will be an outlet for those ages. They had consultants work on the rec center for quite a while to determine the needs and wants of the community and to work up the budget. It will be on the ballot in April for Grand Junction residents only. They need volunteers to help get the word out and keep spreading the information. The proposal is 3 parts:
Community center at Matchett Park that is owned by the city. Develop the surrounding area. Renovate pool at Orchard Mesa.
 
There are 205 acres at Matchett Park. It is larger than Canyon View Park. It will have splash pad, play areas, 2 ponds, trails for bikers and hikers, Skate Park, fitness center, Dog Park, pickle ball and tennis courts and pavilions. The orchard mesa pool would be given to the city to run and maintain. March 9th they are having an open house and tour of the pool and building to see what would be done.
88% of people in the poll said they would support the rec center and 85% said they would help to pay for it. This rec center would help the city to recruit doctors and businesses as well. The cost is .39% sales tax increase for city of Grand Junction. That increase is on average $4.50 per month per family. There are plans for a catering type kitchen as well. Fees for the rec center would be set by Parks and recs. 
There will be another proposal on the ballot for a 1.25% increase in sales tax for transportation needs and fire station.
President Les recognized January birthdays. He reminded us of recycling and putting away chairs. 
Meeting was called to adjourn. Dave Austin moved to adjourn and John Mead and Terry Adcock seconded in unison. Meeting adjourned at 11 am.

December 2018 Minutes
​12/12/2018

President Les Slowik called meeting at 10 am.
November minutes were accepted by Ruth Trowbridge and Martha Potyondy. 
Susan Norton gave Treasurers report. We have $4918.78 in checking and $6530.91 in money market. We broke $2.00 in interest! We also made $76.00 in the raffle today. Highest ever!
Ernestine Campbell of Membership let us know we have 3 new members this month. They are:
Gregg & Valri Ayer, William Reininger & Clara Muino-Reininger and Judy Newbould.  We also had 3 visitors. Welcome all!
Linda Ash of We Care sent out 2 cards to Nancy Channell who was ill and Nancy Glover who broke her leg. Get better!
Jim Hughes gave an update on the wine luncheon at Chez Lena. There were 43 who attended and the box wines were great! Next wine get together will probably be on Australia and New Zealand wines.
Doug Grodt ran up to the podium to report on the luncheon tour. It will be at the fire control facility and only 20 can attend. It will be on Jan. 16th at 10 am. The hiking group will be at Rabbits Ears tomorrow. It is a 6 mile hike so be prepared.
Martha Potyondy gave us a sneak preview of the tours and luncheons for 2019. February will be at Eureka science center, March will be at Teardrop trailer manufacturing, April will be at Highland distillery, June is CPR training, July to the Grand Mesa for flower tour, August at VA Hospital, September Edfast mortuary, Oct, - company that builds ski lift chairs and for high roller in Vegas and Nov. will be behind the scenes at Chez Lena.
Nancy Channell reported on Armchair Traveler on the 17th. Kurt Neuswanger will be showing slides and a talk about Canyon Descente at the library. Doors open at 6 pm to get a ticket to get in. There is limited seating.
Teresa Ann Bell volunteers for CLAWS. You can get an older cat for nothing for Seniors called Senior cats for Seniors laps. CLAWS will pay all expenses for the life of the cat.
Christmas Party has 130 folks signed up. Doors open at 5:30. BYOB – plastic cups or bring your own glass to get fancy. Centerpieces will be on the table. See Ann Repka if you have one to donate. Some will be available for silent auction. Proceeds will be donated thru committee. We play a game called heads or tails. $5.00 a person. Winner gets half and the other goes to local charity. 
Jennifer Murrell with Information Services from the library is our speaker. Great information regarding:
Classes you can take and you can find them on the website under Linda & Universal at the E-2 tab. There are professional and IT classes. Universal classes are computer classes, how to knit, do yoga, cooking etc. 
They have a digital conversion table – convert pictures, vhs tapes.
Artists in residence program – 3 or 4 months at library – required to teach classes. There is a trademark and patent center if interested.
Senior advisory group – meet monthly to advise seniors.
You can borrow go pros, camera and projector. Passes available to art center for a week, Col. National monument passes and also have backpack with binoculars to check out, passes to western museum and botanical gardens. 
You can get help on technology issues. Tuesday 12-2 is tech help day. Bring devices you want help on. 2nd and 4th Thursday from 4-6 is for working people.
You can book a librarian for any special needs.
Jan. 22nd Tues is tech expo. Show off new ideas on technology.
You can download on devices on an app called Overdrive to get audio or books. You can get magazines and they never expire. 
Ancestry. Com you can only work on at the library. 
Heritage quest is available too.
It was very informative.
It was announced the Methodist Church is having free concert today at 12:15 at 5th and White. They have them once a month – violinist and pianist.
Elections will be in March for Board members. We are in need of a new President. A great way to get involved and meet people. A good way to enjoy social events. Step up to the plate and inquire about it! 
Janice Shepherd said fire stations have events as well. They offer free CPR and other things.
Ann Repka mentioned to leave centerpieces before you leave so she can bring to dinner that night.
Jerry Norton motioned for meeting to adjourn and John and Diana Mead seconded!
Meeting adjourned at 11 am!

November 2018 Minutes
​11/14/2018

President Les Slowik brought meeting to order at 10 am. 
Mary Beth Davis told us about the Needlecraft’s group collection of $255.00 gift cards for the angel store at Latimer House.
Les told us that Dinner group will be meeting at Terry and Betty Berg’s house on Dec. 8th for the annual Christmas get together.
October minutes were approved by Bob Noble and Jerry Norton.
Treasurer Susan Norton let us know we earned approximately $1.88 in interest and we have $4973.72 in checking account and $6528.76 in money market. Last month we earned $38.00 in raffle money.
 
Last year we had 112 in attendance for Christmas party. Dec. 5th is the cutoff date for the party this year. Les reminded us the club is subsidizing some of the cost. It is a BYOB party. There will be music for dancing and it is great fun. Ann Repka announced she is in charge of centerpieces. She still could use about 2 or 3 more centerpieces. They vote on centerpieces at end of night and you can win a $25.00 gift card for businesses on Main St. There also is a silent auction for those that don’t want their creations back. The money helps subsidize the party. Please let Susan Norton know as soon as possible if you can attend.
Art Center craft fair is this Friday through Saturday. We have a lot of members that are part of the Art Guild who make lots of homemade goodies to sell. Come support the Art Center! They have a raffle as well. Top prize is $100. Carolyn White has tickets for sale.
Ernestine Campbell said we have 7 new members! They are:
Pete and Edie Marks – Evergreen Jean Greenfield – Lakewood Ralph & Donna Genahl – Hillsboro George & Dee Tompkins – Maryland
Welcome all!

Linda Ash of “we care” sent out 3 cards this past month for folks who are ill or who have passed away.
Judy Bubel – broke her arm Jane Linden – passed away Barbara Meysenburg – who passed away just the previous night
 
Carolyn White announced she will be combining the January and February newsletters. If you have something you need in the newsletter let her know early to make the cutoff date! 
Jim Hughes said the Wine Club is meeting Friday at Chez Lena and will be enjoying box wines.
Les would like everyone to wear their holiday sweater to next meeting. Let’s see how crazy we can get. He also mentioned seating may be mixed up at next meeting so people can meet new people. Stay tuned!
Douglas Grodt who heads up our monthly hikes was delighted to see so many people at the meeting. They will visit the BLM office in January. No lunch and tour in Nov. and Dec. He mentioned Thursdays hiking group going to places like Devils Canyon. They meet at 8:45 am for the hikes. 
Armchair Travelers has monthly lectures at the library. Next one is Nov. 19th on Indian Rock Art in eastern Utah. Tickets are handed out at 6 pm and it does usually fill up.
Susan Norton mentioned some Board positions may be open for election next year. Les will be stepping down to 1st Vice President so President position is open. We have lots of new members and this is a good way to meet people and get involved. The position does not involve a lot of hours or work. Members do run all the committees and different groups. Please see Les or Susan if interested in finding out more information. There may be positions open in some of the groups as well. Elections are in March. We would like to get this information in the Feb. newsletter so let us know soon.
Geri Mishmash has tags of names of people needing help from Salvation Army for Christmas giving. They accept gift cards as well. Bring back your purchases next month, bring the tag you chose, don’t wrap the presents and put them in a gift bag. Call Joan Robinson with any questions.
Our speaker this month is Dr. Andrew Jones, the Medical Director at St. Mary’s. He informed us of all the medical needs that St. Mary’s can provide. First he explained a regional medical center is focused on community and region and collaborates with other smaller hospitals. They have 400 physicians, 350 licensed beds, are equipped for open heart surgery, advanced vascular care and surgical care. They also have a hybrid operating room which doubles for complicated vascular and surgery working at the same time. They are the busiest trauma hospital in Colorado. They are a Level 2 because they don’t do research.
They have a Stroke Center – 24/7 stroke and intervention care. You don’t have to go to Denver.
They are a Regional blood center, have comprehensive women and children’s services, largest orthopedic practice and a bariatric center of excellence.
 
They partner with Children’s Hospital in Denver and are affiliated with Memorial and Craig. They also partner with Mindspring Health. Their care flight program bills the insurance but they don’t bill the patient. 
They also work with the nursing program at CMU. They are the 2nd largest employer in Mesa County and are a billion dollar impact to the community with jobs and all that they do. This is a big drive for folks to move here. 
Their primary service area is Mesa County, secondary is a 50 mile radius and then the tertiary area extends beyond that.
They do not do organ transplants, bone marrow transplants nor do they have pediatric intensive care.
The Health care van is used to go to places where it’s hard for folks to get to Grand Junction. They provide vaccines in schools as well.
Linda Ash also mentioned that she and her husband will be at the art fair in Battlement Mesa on Saturday.
Jerry Norton made a motion to dismiss the meeting and Bob Noble 2nd. Meeting adjourned at 11 am.

October 2018 minutes
​10/10/2018

President Les Slowik called meeting to order at 10 am.
Ruth Trowbridge accepted September minutes and Terry Adcock seconded.
Bob Noble filled in for Susan Norton for the Treasurer’s report. We have $4761.82 in checking account, $6524.94 in money market and Septembers raffle brought in $45.00.
John Mead accepted Treasurer’s report and David Austin 2nd.
Compliments to the cookie maker for our delicious treats. We have 2 new visitors today and 12 NEW members! The new members are the following:
David and Teresa Gill from Mobile, Ala (Toni Austin’s sister), Scott and Nancy Hollmaier from Gurnee, Ill, David and Diane Jacoby from Westminster, Adele Matera from Highlands Ranch, Kevin and Mollie Reeves from Grand Junction, Gary and Sue Slaughter from Texas, and Arlena Wood from Dalton, Mass. Welcome all! 
Linda Ash reported on the “we care” group. She sent out 2 cards this month. One was to Barbara Meysenburg who is very ill and Lina Paloma who had surgery.
Carolyn White said there was nothing new on the newsletter however she is in the process of getting the Directory out. She is also a member of the Art Guild and showed us some beautiful hand embroidered tea towels she is making for the craft show in Nov. They are $12.00 each and you can get a hold of Carolyn if you would like to see them before the show.
Donna Gabriel gave an update on the wine club. Nov. 16th the club will gather at Chez Lena. This is part of CMU culinary department. There will be 5-7 wines to taste at $25.00 per person. You will be able to select your entree. More info on that to follow in the newsletter. Chez Lena has 8 kitchens and good food. Wayne McCalla said he has been talking with Josh regarding a contest on box wine versus bottle. They have come a long way with box wine!
I.P. Potyondy actually came up to the microphone to discuss next Wednesday’s tour to D51 building. It represents 46 schools and 22,000 students. Kay who works as the interface rep will be doing the presentation. The Acting Superintendent will welcome us and discuss foundation meeting, school board presentation, learning model and the mill fund update. There will be Q & A afterwards. Lunch will be at the Rockslide afterward. They will meet at 10 am in the 900 block of Ute. It is the Emerson Building. Meeting starts promptly at 10 am.
Joan Robinson let us know that this was the last month for food drive.124# so far has been given to the food bank. Thank you!
Joan discussed the Christmas giving tree. At the November meeting she will have tags for you to pick

up. They are families from the Salvation Army. You can donate money and she will shop for you or you can do the shopping yourself. They give you ideas of what to buy. She delivers after the December meeting. You will have a month to shop. 
Les mentioned he is thinking of getting some signs on the highway to clean Highway 34 off I70 with the Newcomers name on it. More to follow on that. 
Christmas Party will be at the masonic Temple where it was last year. $29.00 for a prime rib dinner and $24.00 for the chicken of vegetarian dinner. The club will subsidize $4.00 to bring them to $25.00 and $20.00 respectfully. We can start accepting money now. Make your checks out to Newcomers group and give to Susan Norton or send to the PO Box found on the newsletter or web page. The party will be on Dec. 12th at 5:30. It is BYOB as they don’t allow liquor. It is a very fun time and we look forward to it. Ann Repka is looking for folks to help set up the party, and tear down. Let her know if you can help.
Katie Sullivan mentioned today’s raffle brought in $38.00. 
Les introduced our speaker Emily Davis who currently works for the BLM. She told us we have 2.7 million acres of BLM land. She is here for one more week then back to the Grand Canyon to work. BLM has been doing lot of public land work. This weekend in Palisade is clean up Saturday, making trail improvements etc. She spoke a lot about the wild horse area and gathering. They keep track of the horses on the range and the conditions for the horses. There is room for 3000 horses- only have about 200 right now. In early November horses will come back from Canon City for adoption. Nov. 3rd is adoption event. The Grand Junction field office works with other groups to improve bike and trails. The Palisade Plunge is being worked on now which is 32 miles through the mountains from top of Mesa to Palisade. There is a southwest office in Montrose which helps make decisions for the next 20 years and gets input from the population as to what they want. Gunnison Gorge has a clean up day along the river, fishing opportunities and has lots of recreational users.
She also discussed the oil and gas drilling on public lands. Earlier this year there was a nomination for a parcel of land for lease. There is 7.3 million acres of
subsurface land. When a parcel is nominated it goes through analysis to be considered. BLM does follow what the current administration is saying. There are 46 current producing oil and gas areas and one coal mine. Les asked the question do we get money from grazing properties? They do get money from oil and gas, grazing and recreation use. She will get fact sheets out for last fiscal year. Economic benefits are good for communities for job creations etc. Alberta Husch asked if we could tour the local office. It is right behind the airport. David Austin asked if there was any issues with contraception for mustangs. They have removed 27 mustangs, gathered 47 and treated them with contraceptives. It’s effective for 6 months and then treated again for 2 years. They have cut the new foal crops in half from 40 per year down to 11-20 per year. They work with Friends of Mustangs who know all the horses and have the records on them as to which should stay and which should come off. They will be adopted out at 4 to 5 years old. 
Les thanked her and let folks know she will stay after to answer any questions.
Les reminded folks to put on their checks for the Christmas party if they want vegan or chicken. The cut off for sign up is Dec. 4. 
Les thanked Ruth Anna for ideas on speakers – Doc from St. Mary’s, community outreach etc.
Linda Ash announced ladies golfing is OVER!
There is a concert at the Methodist Church at 12:15 at 5th and White streets. They are very good.
Janet Johnson announced the Highline clean-up campaign is cancelled. NO TRASH!
Doug Grodt announced the next outing will be at No Thoroughfare Canyon and Echo Canyon. They will meet at Safeway in Redlands at 8:45 on Thursday.
David Austin moved to adjourn and John Mead 2nd. Meeting adjourned at 11:00.

September 2018 Minutes
​9/12/2018

President Les Slowik opened up the meeting at 10:00 am. Jerry Norton accepted August meeting notes and Toni Austin 2nd. 
Susan Norton gave the Treasurer’s report: We have $5015.72 in checking, $1.32 interest in Money market for a total of $6524.94. Last month’s raffle brought in $64.00. We received $1684.00 in money for the Labor Day picnic. We only subsidized $103.20 
Ernestine Campbell introduced the new members:
 
Bob Weiss (added to his wife’s membership) Debra and Jerry Newlin Jennie and Michael Hawkins
 
Welcome all!
We also had 10 visitors for the meeting! 
Linda Ash reported on the “we care” group. She sent out 4 cards this month to Joy Bush who is very ill, Steve Wacker who had knee surgery, Renee Herring whose mother passed away, and Barbara Meysenburg who is in the hospital. 
Les asked Carolyn White if there were any updates on the newsletter to which she reported “no.” That is pretty succinct! 
I.P. Potyondy reminded us of the tour next Wednesday at the Orchard Mesa Irrigation District which is the old hydroelectric plant at 10 am. Afterwards lunch will be at downtown Palisade at the 357 Bar & Grill. There are openings if you want to sign up.
Kay Klausmeier reported on the District 51 Educational Building tour. They will meet at R5 High School where Board of Education meets. Angela Christensen, the Director of school foundation, will be doing the presentation and maybe some other administration staff. Topics will be about performance based learning model, programs offered to get students graduated, budget and the new organizational issues that have been going on. This is on Oct. 17th. Lunch afterward to be reported later.
Nancy Channell said for the Oct. 15th Armchair Traveler session the discussion will be on “the Cuba you may not know” by Paula Struckman. Her fellow co-traveler ended up in the hospital so they know a little about the medical situation there. This is held at the Central Library. Tickets are given out starting at 6 pm and the presentation is at 6:30. It holds about 100 people. 
Les mentioned all the volunteer work that the group does. Contact anyone if you are interested in volunteering for something. Janet Johnson did mention that Terry may do a presentation on their trip around the world later on.
Jerry Norton reported to the group regarding the trip to Black Canyon in Gunnison on Sept. 28th. There will be a 30 minute private lecture. A picnic lunch will follow then free time to roam around and do what you want. Some folks will be making this an overnight trip. They will meet promptly at 9:15 am at City Market in Orchard Mesa if you are interested in carpooling. 
Wayne McCalla mentioned that Kebler Pass has the biggest strand of aspens in North America and will be beautiful to see.
Final count on the Labor Day picnic was 108.
Adrienne Carlo from Grey Gourmet talked to us about Grey Gourmet. It is basically Meals on Wheels. We are the 3rd largest in Colorado. They served 121,000 meals last year. There were quite a few folks in the group that volunteers for them in some capacity. They currently have 100 home deliveries and need to start a new route. Please see her or any other volunteer if you are interested in learning more. Linda Ash mentioned she has been a volunteer since 2003 and has been a great program for her and very rewarding. Alberta Husch mentioned there are 9 different dining sites. You can work dining if you don’t want to drive. You also can sign up to just be a sub. If you ever need time off just let them know and they get a substitute.
Les asked Carolyn how many hours had been computed for volunteer work she said they didn’t have a definite number but it was 1000’s of hours.
Janet Johnson needs 15-20 volunteers to clean up Highline Lake. Please sign up by raffle table. It will be on Oct. 9th. They will meet at 9:30 and start by 10. This is our community project. You would work in groups of 2-5. They provide the trash bags. Cover your legs, bring hat, sunscreen, spray for insects, water and wear closed toe shoes. They also need volunteers to shop and prepare lunch. The club does pay for lunch. Call Janet if you are interested in helping out in any way.
Toni Austin announced her PEO chapter is having a craft sale Nov. 3rd at Crossroads United Methodist church. They raise money for women education. There will be lots of goodies and a great chance to get your holiday gift shopping done.
Les said we had a lot of non-perishable donations at the meeting. There will be a box at the next 2 meetings. It will be dropped off at the food bank.
Les said the Holiday Party will be at the same location as last year. We will have the same chef as last year but upscale the menu some. It will be on Dec. 12th. See Ann Repka if you can help out with decorations or setting up and tearing down. 
Les mentioned elections and nominations are during months of March and April. The President’s position will be open if you are interested. If you are interested in any Board position please see Les.
Our speakers this month were from the Police Dept. on the subject of fraud and local issues.
Sgt. Fisher, Martin Donahue- traffic officer and Christy Knoll from the fraud department were there. Christy answered lots of questions in regard to fraud – some of the tips and highlights she mentioned were the following:
The IRS will NEVER call you or ask for money over the phone. They will only contact you by certified mail.
If you get a phone call saying your grandkids need money etc. do not respond. Just hang up. This is another scam.
Don’t put personal info on Facebook such as traveling plans. Do not get involved in romance scams on Facebook either. Don’t post personal information!
Scammers use routers and the “dark web” to get information on victims. Lots of money collected are going to terrorist groups. 
If you feel you have been scammed and have sent someone money, the quicker you report it the higher the chance they might be able to get some of the money back. 
Microsoft scams are very popular. They will call you or email saying they need to get into your computer to fix an issue. DO NOT respond to this. Never give out personal information of any kind. They will remote into your computer and steal your identity basically.
Christy works with FBI, ICE and other groups regarding fraud. Fraud cases are up 30% from last year. 
She also mentioned the “skimmers” that are put on ATM machines and gas pumps. It is an obvious device on the pump that will read your card when you use it. It is a plastic device on the outside of the pump and easy to spot. Use a credit card instead of a debit card whenever possible. Chip cards can’t be ready by skimmers.
Sgt. Fisher mentioned some community issues right now such as homelessness –
They are trying to help them get services they need. Other towns send their homeless to us for care because we do such a good job at helping them. There are many groups here that help out with the homeless.

Another issue is a shortage of police officers. They get recruits from the academy and will help pay for police academy, training etc. which totals $70,000 before they can be on the street. Of course it takes time to become a seasoned officer. They are working on improving the reputation that the police department has right now. 
We have a new chief making good changes in trying to market our area as a good place to live and work.
Les reminded us of recycling our trash and putting away chairs and cleaning up.
David Austin moved to adjourn and John Mead seconded the motion. 
Meeting adjourned at 11:05.

August 2018 Minutes
8/8/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The July minutes were approved by Jerry Norton and John Mead.
Treasurer Susan Norton gave a report on our money. We have $5,407.54 in checking account of which $548.00 is Labor Day picnic money. There was $2.15 in interest. We have $6,523.55 in money market with $1.40 in interest. Last month’s raffle brought in $47.00.
Susan Norton reminded us of Brian Savage coming to Two Rivers Winery on Aug. 21st. This benefits the Art Center. It’s a great evening for good music and friendship! Also if you are a new member to Newcomers you get a free 6 month membership to art center. 
Janet Johnson moved to accept the Treasurers report.
Also if you are looking for something fun to do with your little ones the jet boat rides are a lot of fun. Contact Susan Norton for more information on that.
We have 3 new members this month. Anne McGowan from Cheyenne, WY, Robin Martin and Sante Dicresce from Colorado Springs. Welcome all!

Les told us about new Newcomer brochures that are going out to the visitor centers and hotels.
Thanks as always to Tizza for the wonderful goodies for our meetings.
Jim Hughes reported on the Sept. 5th wine get together at Chez Lena’s. It will have German wines and menu (which will be announced at a later time). 
Nancy Channell reminded us of the Aug. 15th tour of the horse sanctuary in Glade Park. There is a $4.00 donation to get in. They will lunch at Dos Hombres afterwards.
I.P. Potyondy reported next month is the tour of the Orchard Mesa water district. It will be on Sept. 19th. They will go to Palisade for lunch afterwards.
In October we will be going to hear someone talk about School District 51. There will be no tour in Nov. Then we will start planning for 2019! Please let us know of any ideas you have for tours. We need fresh ideas!
Wayne McCalla 2nd VP with “the emphasis on 2nd” reported that the group of 14 that went to Aspen to hear a wonderful pianist was not disappointed. As a matter of fact it was “incredible.” Lunch was at the Pullman in Glenwood Springs. 33 folks attended the Ouray jeep trip. It was an incredible ride and a great time.
He had scheduled Sept. 25th to go to Black Canyon but he may not be able to go so he might have to cancel that trip. It’s a very steep drive. He had thought of another trip to the Air Force base in Colorado Springs. That is more involved and he is still working on that.
Les let us know they will be putting out a box for nonperishable food items to be given to the food bank.
Janet Johnson said Highline Lake needs help with the cleanup. That will be in October and more to follow.
Les mentioned Rockestra is at CMU on Aug. 18th. It is a concert with local artists.
Faith Alevy reminded us of the Labor Day Picnic at Canyon View Park. She still needs folks to sign up to help with clean up and set up. It is $15.00 for members and $19.00 for guests. Please let her know very soon so she can give caterers an accurate head count. There is a vegetarian option – also needs to know if
you want that so she can let them know. It offers veggies and a veggie hamburger. Cutoff date to sign up is one week before the picnic, Aug. 27th. 
Linda Ash gave the We Care report. One card was sent out to Lois Leach on the passing of her Mother.
Janet Johnson said Dinner club dues are due Tues of next week which is Aug. 14th. 
Our scheduled speaker from the BLM was called in to help with the fires going on around us so Janice Shepherd came up to talk on her behalf. Janice has been a BLM volunteer since 2009. She has a variety of duties with the BLM. She talked about doing trail maintenance, working with the archaeology team, looking at fences for the livestock and fending off bears! The field office for the BLM is out by the airport. You can find out where to hike, ATV etc. You can also find out what road conditions are like during this fire season. If you volunteer for 250 hours a year you get a national parks pass. Janice has volunteered WAY over that amount and was awarded Colorado Volunteer of the year and also NATIONAL volunteer of the year. Kudos to Janice for a job well done!
Wayne McCalla mentioned that if we get the BLM speaker at some point in time he would like her to clarify the difference between national and public lands etc.
Les asked for help on getting in new speakers. It’s a daunting task finding new speakers and the help would be much appreciated!
Meeting adjourned at 10:50 am…

July 2018 Minutes
​7/11/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The June minutes were approved by Ruth Trowbridge and Martha Potyondy.
 
Treasurer Susan Norton gave a report on our money. We have $5387.93 in checking and $6522.14 in money market. We had $1.04 in interest!
 
David Austin moved to accept the treasurer’s report.
 
She also mentioned the upcoming Music in the Grapevines concert at Two Rivers Winery on Tuesday the 17th with the group the Scones. Cost is $15.00 per ticket. This concert benefits the Art Center and is always an enjoyable evening.
 
Thanks once again to Tizza for supplying the goodies we get to enjoy at meetings.
 
New members were introduced:
 
Betty Milner, Linda Shaw from Tucson, Barbara Rudy from GJ, Janice Helmer.
 
Martha Potyondy reminded us of next Wed. the 18th of the tour at the CSU extension farm. They will go through the history of the farm and also let us pick some veggies for the food bank and possibly some to take home to enjoy. Be sure to wear good shoes as you will be walking on uneven surfaces, bring sunscreen, water and hats. Afterwards lunch will be at Dragon Treasure in Orchard Mesa.
 
Nancy Channel reported on the Aug 15th tour in Glade Park of the horse sanctuary at 10 am. It is $4.00 per person. They ask for a donation and based on 25 people going that would cover it. Bring water, closed toed shoes and sunscreen! You will be outside of course. Afterwards lunch at Dos Hombres or another new Mexican restaurant that is close by. That will be decided later.
 
Douglas Grodt reminded us of the Thursday hike to Grand Mesa on July 12th. The hike won’t be long – about 2 hours of walking. It is not difficult and will be at Lands End. Doug is a Colorado native plant master and can tell you about all the different wildflowers. They will meet at Coronado Plaza at 8:45.
 
I.P. Potyondy reported that next month they will have the sign up for the Orchard Mesa water district. It will be on Sept. 19th. More details to come from I.P.
 
Linda Ash gave the We Care report. Linda read a nice thank you note from Del Wharton of the overwhelming response and offers of help when she broke her hip several weeks ago. Linda also reported on a past newcomer member Connie Brunker who passed away from ALS. If you know of anyone that could use a card of encouragement please let Linda know.
 
2nd VP Wayne McCalla reviewed the jeep trip in Ouray on Aug.2nd. 30 people have signed up so far. You are own your own to drive to Ouray, meet at the old hotel there at 1:30. From there you will load onto the trucks for the tour. It is always a fun tour. Cost is $54.00 per person. This is a fabulous trip!
 
This coming Saturday July 14th a group will be going to Glenwood Springs to have dinner at the Pullman then off to Aspen to see a pianist that is up and coming. Wayne says he is fabulous and it should be great show.
 
Marty McDaneld spoke about the City Council meeting on July 16th at City Hall at 5:30. The consultants will be reviewing their findings regarding data on the rec center they have been collecting. If you miss this meeting their will be a recap on Tuesday at city hall from 11:30 to 12:30. This is to get the proposition for a rec center on the April 2019 ballot. You can address questions to:
 
GJCCC
PO Box 2693
Grand Junction, Co 81502
Les reminded everyone of the Labor Day barbeque on Sept. 3rd. The cost is $15.00 for members and $19.00 for guests. It is barbeque from a food truck that will be there on site. There will be 3 meats, sides and drinks. Sign up is going on now thru August. Make your checks out to Newcomers.
 
Janet Johnson was there to get signups for Dinner Club. Cost is $20.00 per couple and $10.00 for singles. No need to send in recipes this year as they have collected a lot over the past years. They meet 3 times as a large group, fall, Christmas and spring. Then there are monthly dinners of no more than 8 people at a home. Everyone hosts one time.
 
Janet also mentioned clean up at Highline Lake in Loma. She will find out if they need helping cleaning up in Oct. She asked for a show of hands of those who would help. The club provides lunch afterwards.
 
Les asked for a volunteer to spear head a committee for speakers. Anyone that enjoys working on this type of project please let Les know.
 
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 since the speaker didn’t show.
 
​

June, 2018 Minutes
​6/13/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The May 9 minutes were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton said we had three new members. Our checking account is $5,648, less than last month with payments for brochures, insurance and other items. New insurance covering the board of directors may be less than expected. She is still working on this.
Reminder that next Tuesday is Music in the Grapevines at Two Rivers Winery. Tim + Richard will be performing. It will be a wonderful night to benefit The Art Center.
Kudos to Tizza Chace for all the wonderful goodies. Thanks!
New members were introduced: Bob and Arlene McGarvin, from Austin, Colo.; Bill and Ilene Roberts, from Ecuador; Ginger Hollis, from Golden. Linda Shaw was a visitor.
Linda Ash gave the We Care report of four cards sent this month. Madge Buschhorn’s son has ALS, and she is helping to care for him. Jan Frolik is recovering from an illness. Jane Linden has some serious medical issues. Sue Sidwell had a knee replacement.
Thanks to Carolyn White for the hard work on the newsletter and directory! Nothing to update there.
I.P. Potyondy reminded everyone of the upcoming Ute water plant tour. Nineteen are signed up and have security clearance. 
Martha Potyondy talked about the July CSU Extension tour. They will meet at 9:30 am to try to beat the heat. However, it will go longer than usual. You can also pick veggies for the Food Bank and possibly take some home. Reminder to wear sensible shoes – there will be walking. Bring water and sunscreen as well. They will talk about the history of the farm. Lunch to follow at Dragon Treasure in Orchard Mesa.
2nd VP Wayne McCalla talked about an upcoming Aspen Music Festival concert rehearsal on July 15. You need to make your own hotel and transportation arrangements for an overnight stay. Dinner will be at the Pullman Restaurant in Glenwood Springs. The musician is a Russian pianist who is up and coming and it promises to be a great program. If you need a ride let Wayne know.
A jeep trip out of Ouray on Aug. 2 is $54. They are really trucks that carry 25 people. They provide parkas because it could rain.
A Black Canyon picnic trip is being worked on by Beverly Kingsley. The ranger will talk about the history of the area. More to follow later on that trip.
Les mentioned the Labor Day barbeque is $18 this year. It will be barbeque from a food truck that sits on 29th & Patterson. There will be three meats, sides and drinks. Bring your own “special” drink if you desire. Sign up in July and August.
Janet Johnson reminded everyone about dinner club. It is on hiatus for the summer but runs September through May. They meet the 2nd Friday every month. She is on a committee of five folks who look at the recipes to help select the menu. It’s $20 per couple and $10 for singles. It’s a great time!
Thanks for the raffle contributions. It helps pay for the goodies you eat.
Speaker was Doug Simmons, a third generation family member at Enstrom’s Candy. He told about the history of the business, lots of funny stories and how it grew into what it is today. It started out as an ice cream shop for 35 years, and was sold to a larger company after they discovered the toffee business. They do direct to consumer sales for the better part of the business. 10% of the business is sold locally. They now work on wholesale business for the larger part. He and his wife arrived in 1979 – she a nurse and he was a theatre and music major working in the candy factory. They produce 3 million pounds of candy per year. They also do some private labeling. They are very involved in the community for charity work and donations. It was very interesting about their history.
Meeting adjourned at 11 am

May,2018 Minutes
​5/9/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The April 11 minutes were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton said we had three new members. Our checking account is $6,363.68 and the money market is $6,519.99. We made $1.33 interest and $47.00 in raffle money from last month. The report was accepted as submitted.
Susan brought up the subject of getting insurance for the officers in case there was an incident in the future to protect them personally. She has been working on that for a couple of months getting quotes. Right now she estimates it would cost about $1,200 yearly. Martha Potyondy urged that the leaders of the group activities should be added to that insurance policy. Susan will look into that as well. Right now our coverage is for liability only at our meeting site. Les mentioned that he is looking at possibly changing the legal status of the club to an LLC. He will let us know what he finds out about that.
Thank you to Tizza Chace, who is the cookie committee.
Ernestine Campbell said we had three new members Alan and Pauline Hillard from Fruita and Susan Smith. We had three visitors, one who said she is joining. 
Wayne McCalla is in the hospital but planning trips to Ouray and Aspen.
There are no updates to the newsletter. Jim Hughes has said the web page is doing fine. Nothing new to update there.
Next Lunch and Tour will be a presentation by the Mesa County coroner. We will meet at Community Hospital at 10 am. The coroner will be discussing what his job is and what it entails. The list is currently full. The Ute water purification plant tour is scheduled for June 20 with lunch to follow at Dos Hombres in Clifton. I.P. Potyondy has to turn in the roster information by June 5. Martha did mention that in July we will be able to go to CSU extension farm. It will be at 9:30 am to avoid the heat. They can accommodate a large group for that. There is some walking so be prepared. 
Doug Grodt said the next hike will be in Glade Park at Turkey flats, a little more difficult. 
Armchair Travelers will start up again in October. The calendar is wide open, so if you or you know of someone who wants to share their vacation or knowledge let Nancy Channell know.
Les mentioned they are looking for people to head up a committee for happy hour. If you are interested see Les. 
Labor Day weekend we might have a barbeque truck come to our site for the food. Currently it is at 29th and Patterson if you want to taste the goods.
Alberta Husch spoke about Grey Gourmet volunteers. They service nine different locations. It is $3.50 a meal prepared by a dietician at St. Mary’s. They are in need of more people for drivers and dining sites. If you need any more information see Alberta. This is all tax dollars and grants so they rely on volunteers. You do about 15-20 stops when you deliver.
Music in the Vines starts this Tuesday, the 15th. Stray Grass will be playing benefiting The Art Center. Come out and support art and have a good time as well.
Stuart Gardner talked about Senior Theatre’s performance of “The Affairs at Meddler’s Top.” Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Come out and enjoy a great play at Robinson Theatre on June 15 and 16. There are afternoon and evening performances. They also need someone to run the concessions for the show if interested. You can make money for the club.
Plane Crazy – Next Tuesday at 1:30 pm at the Aviation History Museum – going to do an accident scene and go through the process of what happens when a plane crashes, folks get injured, etc.
Karen Massey from RSVP SHIP was our guest speaker about Medicare information. You can call them to get appointment to discuss prescriptions or insurance in general. Their number is 243-9839. ext 1.  They are in the US Bank downtown. They are all volunteers and also have a monthly class to educate you on your choices. It was a very informative talk. New Medicare cards are coming out and will replace the one you have. It will not have your Social Security number on it. This is due to all the fraudulent claims that have taken place. Also make sure you have changed address if you have moved, so you get your new card.
On June 16 there is an opportunity to observe the sky at Grand Mesa Observatory from 9:00 to 11:30 pm in Whitewater.
Meeting adjourned at 11 am

June 2018 Minutes
​6/13/2018

Minutes – June 13, 2018
President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The May 9 minutes were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton said we had three new members. Our checking account is $5,648, less than last month with payments for brochures, insurance and other items. New insurance covering the board of directors may be less than expected. She is still working on this.
Reminder that next Tuesday is Music in the Grapevines at Two Rivers Winery. Tim + Richard will be performing. It will be a wonderful night to benefit The Art Center.
Kudos to Tizza Chace for all the wonderful goodies. Thanks!
New members were introduced: Bob and Arlene McGarvin, from Austin, Colo.; Bill and Ilene Roberts, from Ecuador; Ginger Hollis, from Golden. Linda Shaw was a visitor.
Linda Ash gave the We Care report of four cards sent this month. Madge Buschhorn’s son has ALS, and she is helping to care for him. Jan Frolik is recovering from an illness. Jane Linden has some serious medical issues. Sue Sidwell had a knee replacement.
Thanks to Carolyn White for the hard work on the newsletter and directory! Nothing to update there.
I.P. Potyondy reminded everyone of the upcoming Ute water plant tour. Nineteen are signed up and have security clearance. 
Martha Potyondy talked about the July CSU Extension tour. They will meet at 9:30 am to try to beat the heat. However, it will go longer than usual. You can also pick veggies for the Food Bank and possibly take some home. Reminder to wear sensible shoes – there will be walking. Bring water and sunscreen as well. They will talk about the history of the farm. Lunch to follow at Dragon Treasure in Orchard Mesa.
2nd VP Wayne McCalla talked about an upcoming Aspen Music Festival concert rehearsal on July 15. You need to make your own hotel and transportation arrangements for an overnight stay. Dinner will be a
the Pullman Restaurant in Glenwood Springs. The musician is a Russian pianist who is up and coming and it promises to be a great program. If you need a ride let Wayne know.
A jeep trip out of Ouray on Aug. 2 is $54. They are really trucks that carry 25 people. They provide parkas because it could rain.
A Black Canyon picnic trip is being worked on by Beverly Kingsley. The ranger will talk about the history of the area. More to follow later on that trip.
Les mentioned the Labor Day barbeque is $18 this year. It will be barbeque from a food truck that sits on 29th & Patterson. There will be three meats, sides and drinks. Bring your own “special” drink if you desire. Sign up in July and August.
Janet Johnson reminded everyone about dinner club. It is on hiatus for the summer but runs September through May. They meet the 2nd Friday every month. She is on a committee of five folks who look at the recipes to help select the menu. It’s $20 per couple and $10 for singles. It’s a great time!
Thanks for the raffle contributions. It helps pay for the goodies you eat.
Speaker was Doug Simmons, a third generation family member at Enstrom’s Candy. He told about the history of the business, lots of funny stories and how it grew into what it is today. It started out as an ice cream shop for 35 years, and was sold to a larger company after they discovered the toffee business. They do direct to consumer sales for the better part of the business. 10% of the business is sold locally. They now work on wholesale business for the larger part. He and his wife arrived in 1979 – she a nurse and he was a theatre and music major working in the candy factory. They produce 3 million pounds of candy per year. They also do some private labeling. They are very involved in the community for charity work and donations. It was very interesting about their history.
Meeting adjourned at 11 am.
Suzan Fournier, Secretary

May 2018 Minutes
5/9/2018​

​President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The April 11 minutes were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton said we had three new members. Our checking account is $6,363.68 and the money market is $6,519.99. We made $1.33 interest and $47.00 in raffle money from last month. The report was accepted as submitted.
Susan brought up the subject of getting insurance for the officers in case there was an incident in the future to protect them personally. She has been working on that for a couple of months getting quotes. Right now she estimates it would cost about $1,200 yearly. Martha Potyondy urged that the leaders of the group activities should be added to that insurance policy. Susan will look into that as well. Right now our coverage is for liability only at our meeting site. Les mentioned that he is looking at possibly changing the legal status of the club to an LLC. He will let us know what he finds out about that.
Thank you to Tizza Chace, who is the cookie committee.
Ernestine Campbell said we had three new members Alan and Pauline Hillard from Fruita and Susan Smith. We had three visitors, one who said she is joining. 
Wayne McCalla is in the hospital but planning trips to Ouray and Aspen.
There are no updates to the newsletter. Jim Hughes has said the web page is doing fine. Nothing new to update there.
Next Lunch and Tour will be a presentation by the Mesa County coroner. We will meet at Community Hospital at 10 am. The coroner will be discussing what his job is and what it entails. The list is currently full. The Ute water purification plant tour is scheduled for June 20 with lunch to follow at Dos Hombres in Clifton. I.P. Potyondy has to turn in the roster information by June 5. Martha did mention that in July we will be able to go to CSU extension farm. It will be at 9:30 am to avoid the heat. They can accommodate a large group for that. There is some walking so be prepared. 
Doug Grodt said the next hike will be in Glade Park at Turkey flats, a little more difficult. 
Armchair Travelers will start up again in October. The calendar is wide open, so if you or you know of someone who wants to share their vacation or knowledge let Nancy Channell know.
Les mentioned they are looking for people to head up a committee for happy hour. If you are interested see Les. 
Labor Day weekend we might have a barbeque truck come to our site for the food. Currently it is at 29th and Patterson if you want to taste the goods.
Alberta Husch spoke about Grey Gourmet volunteers. They service nine different locations. It is $3.50 a meal prepared by a dietician at St. Mary’s. They are in need of more people for drivers and dining sites. If you need any more information see Alberta. This is all tax dollars and grants so they rely on volunteers. You do about 15-20 stops when you deliver.
Music in the Vines starts this Tuesday, the 15th. Stray Grass will be playing benefiting The Art Center. Come out and support art and have a good time as well.
Stuart Gardner talked about Senior Theatre’s performance of “The Affairs at Meddler’s Top.” Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Come out and enjoy a great play at Robinson Theatre on June 15 and 16. There are afternoon and evening performances. They also need someone to run the concessions for the show if interested. You can make money for the club.
Plane Crazy – Next Tuesday at 1:30 pm at the Aviation History Museum – going to do an accident scene and go through the process of what happens when a plane crashes, folks get injured, etc.
Karen Massey from RSVP SHIP was our guest speaker about Medicare information. You can call them to get appointment to discuss prescriptions or insurance in general. Their number is 243-9839. ext 1.  They are in the US Bank downtown. They are all volunteers and also have a monthly class to educate you on your choices. It was a very informative talk. New Medicare cards are coming out and will replace the one you have. It will not have your Social Security number on it. This is due to all the fraudulent claims that have taken place. Also make sure you have

April 2018 Minutes
​04/11/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am. The March 14 minutes were approved by acclamation.
Treasurer Susan Norton reported $6,519.08 in our money market and $6,203.00 in our checking account. She gave a membership rundown. We lose about 20% every year. At the beginning of 2017 we had 180 and added 44 during 2017 to bring us to 224, and then lost 36, so down to 188. In 2018 we added 30 to bring us up to 218 memberships now. Susan asked those members who did not renew, why. She didn’t get any specific reasons why they quit, so that must be good.
Les said we will send the Newcomers brochure to realtors in the area to increase membership.
Membership reported one visitor and three new members: Rick Baikewicz from Massachusetts, Jeanne and Greg Zshaechner from Albuquerque, and Ron and Gayle Huddleston from GJ
Linda Ash reported for “We Care” that she sent out cards to past member Jim Reisigner whose wife Margaret passed away, to Earle Mullen’s family upon his passing, to Tina Grodt, who has entered hospice care, and to Joyce Olson, who had shoulder surgery.
Carolyn White is updating the membership directory and will send out the digital version before the printed copies are made.
Jim Hughes reported the webpage is doing fine. The wine tasting has 28 members signed up for the April 13 Chez Lena lunch with six selections of wine.
Doug Grodt reported on the April 18 plant walk at  10 am, rain or shine. He has three openings. Lunch at Aztecas Restaurant afterward. For the hiking group for Thursday, April 12, the hike is more difficult. They are meeting in Clifton in Coronado shopping center at  8:45 am and carpooling to Grand Mesa to see Indian petroglyphs. 
The Lunch and Tour group on May 16 will meet at Community Hospital in Legacy Rooms 1 & 2. The coroner will be talking. Lunch will be at Ginger afterword. 
Details for the Armchair Travelers April 16 presentation on safari in South Africa are in the newsletter. Library opens up for seating at 6 pm. Presentation is at  6:30 pm. 
I.P. Potyondy gave an update on the June 20 tour of the Ute potable water purification plant. It will require background checks, so beware they will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth and full name. $6.00 per person for processing. No bags, purses, phones of any kind will be allowed during the tour. Only ten cars will be allowed inside the gate, so we will carpool from a restaurant in Palisade. He will update us later on that location.
Plane Crazy will meet Saturday, April 14, at the airport. There will be a WWII plane, and we might be able to wing walk and see the cockpit. 
Lina Palomo mentioned Senior Theatre’s play on June 16 at 2 and 7 pm at the Robinson Theatre. She had tickets for $10.
Carol Todd has horse manure for anyone needing it for gardens. She is at 21 and I Rd.
Lots of wonderful donations were given for the raffle. Thank you!
We heard of a local horseshoe club for all ages and skill levels. You play against your own ability. Call Al Baumgartner at 314-4694 for more information. 
Our speaker was Dr. Bjorn Irion of from Community Hospital and Western Orthopedics. He presented great information on prevention, symptoms and treatment of blood clots that often occur during travel.
Next month’s speaker will be from RSVP and SHIP with information on Medicare.
Wayne McCalla urged members to hear the special concert by the Western Colorado Chorale to honor Monte Atkinson, expert on chorale studies at CMU, on his retirement. It will be at the Robinson Theatre on May 4 and 5. Wayne is working on a trip to Peterson and Schriever Air Force bases in Colorado Springs. Schriever controls the worldwide GPS system. He will give us more information later. He’s also working on a Jeep trip to Ouray in August or September. These have always been popular.

March 2018 Minutes
​03/14/2018


President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am.
The February meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report. Balances are a little more than last month’s $6,517.55 for the money market and the checking account at $6,278.27. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation. 
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. 
Membership reported one visitor.
Linda Ash sent two cards this month. Ruth Trowbridge had knee surgery, and I.P. Potyondy’s mother passed away. 
Jim Hughes would like activity group leaders to provide activity overviews to incorporate on the website.
Carolyn White reported that the membership directories will be out next month. 
I.P. and Martha Potyondy would like to remind everyone that if you are not able to attend a tour to notify the tour contact. March tour will be to the Daily Sentinel on the 21st. Sign up for each tour is at the prior month’s meeting. See the newsletter for more information.
Armchair Travelers – Janice Sheppard noted that all Armchair Travelers events are at the Main Library and doors open at 6 pm. On Monday, March 19, Ken Mabry will tour Austria. Next month we will go on a safari to South Africa on April 16.
Plane Crazy’s next meeting will cover Aerobatics 101 with D.J. Molny at the Aviation Heritage Museum.
The wine tasting group is having a wine tasting at Chez Lena at WCCC on April 13.
 
You can get your permanent name tags for $8.50. See Alberta Husch.
The hiking group is hiking again instead of snowshoeing. 
New Business
Bob Noble asked the attendees whether they would like another pig roast or barbeque for the Labor Day Monday event this year. All agreed to the barbeque. 
The proposed slate of 2018 board members was voted and passed unanimously. President, Les Slowik; 1st VP, Katie Sullivan; 2nd VP, Wayne McCalla; Treasurer, Susan Norton; Secretary, Suzan Fournier. Thank you to Bob Noble for his six years on the board!
Les will arrange for participation again this year in the July 4th parade.
Announcements
Toni Austin is selling tickets to a Derby Day tea hosted by her chapter of the P.E.O. on May 5.
Guest Speaker
Brigitta Sundermann from Western Colorado Community College shared information about its community outreach to inform people about what WCCC has to offer. Her number is 255-2700 for information about their student programs, Golden Scholar program, scholarship opportunities, and much more.
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
Meeting adjourned at 10:57 am. 
Jo Ann Hargis, Secretary

February, 2018 Minutes
​02/14/2018


President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 9:56 am.
The January meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report.  Balances are money market account $6,517.55 and checking account $5,655.50. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation. Susan has the end-of-year report. Contact her if you are interested in having a copy.
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. 
Membership reported four new members Carol and Ron Biocik (Castle Rock), Mark Carroll (Brighton), and John McCarney (Evergreen).
We Care report from Linda Ash – four cards were sent this month. Tom Rowland, surgery; Cindy Duta, broken leg; Donna Reed, surgery; and Joyce Blaine, passed, sympathy card to family. 
Webmaster Report – Jim Hughes would like activity group leaders to provide activity overviews to incorporate on the website.
There is no newsletter update this month. 
Tours – I.P. and Martha Potyondy would like to remind everyone that if you are not able to attend a tour to notify the tour contact. The Feb. 21 tour of Western Metals Recycling is full. The March tour scheduled for CMU Extension Farm has been postponed. The new March tour will be to the Daily Sentinel on March 21. Sign-up for each tour is at the prior month’s meeting. 
Armchair – Please remember that there is limited seating (appx 100 seats) for these events. 
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings. Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
 
Old Business:
Bob Noble reported that starting in March, Thursday happy hours will be at The Warehouse in a private area on the 1st Thursday and at Doubletree on the 3rd Thursday. Please wear your nametag to the happy hour.
New Business:
Active Seniors Day at the Library will be on March 17 from 10 am to 2 pm.
Election of officers will be at the March meeting.
Any interest in murder mystery theater? Any interest in Compression Only CPR training?
Guest Speaker:
John McConnell spoke about the new CMU Eureka! John McConnell Science Museum, which has its grand opening on March 12. Go to eurekasciencemuseum.org for information.
Meeting adjourned at 11:10 am.

January, 2018 Minutes
​01/10/2018

President Les Slowik called the meeting to order at 10 am
Bob Noble gave the treasurer’s report: $2,947 in our checking account and $6,518 in our money market account. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation.
Les recognized the coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. 
Membership reported three new members: Dan and D.J. Clancy and Sylvia Knight. We also had five visitors. 
Linda Ash said she sent We Care cards to Jan Burch and Jim DuBois this month. 
For upcoming Lunch and Tours, Doug Grodt has a waiting list for next week’s visit to Carlson Memorials. Kay Klausmeier is heading up a visit to Western Metals Recycling next month.
Janice Shepherd reminded us that next month’s Armchair Travelers will be on the 2nd Monday, not the 3rd. Bob Noble will present a program on Cuba then. 
The raffle was held with prizes donated by members.
January birthdays were recognized.
 
New Business:
Our holiday party needed a very small subsidy, unlike our pig roast. Because prices for a whole roast pig continue to rise, Les raised the possibility of serving barbeque instead. More committee members are needed to help Katie Sullivan and Ken Alevy, who have done the planning most recently.
The Art Center is now offering a free six-month membership to anyone who is new in the Grand Valley, “new” defined as the past twelve months. Anyone interested should see Carolyn White or any other Art Center Guild member.
Guest Speaker Stuart Gardner gave an interesting overview of the Grand Junction Senior Theatre. In its 23rd year, it will offer “The Affairs at Meddler’s Top,” an “interactive murder mystery spoof,” on June 15 and 16 at CMU. In addition to actors, the group offers plenty of other opportunities to work together on a show: serving on the board; costume, props and stage design; publicity; concessions; and more. He may be contacted by gjseniortheatre@gmail.com for more information.
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 am. 
 

December, 2017 Minutes
​12/13/2017

The meeting called to order at 10 am by President Les Slowik.
The November meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report. Balances are money market account $6,517.03 and checking account $3,856.64. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation.
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. 
Membership reported three new members: Jim and Terry Hargis and Janis Myers. 
We Care report from Linda Ash was eight cards sent this month. 
There is no newsletter update this month. There is no website update this month.
I.P. and Martha Potyondy would like to remind everyone that if you are not able to attend a tour to notify the tour contact. The 2018 tours are listed in the December 2017 newsletter. You cannot sign up in advance. Each month you can sign up for the next month’s tour. (i.e., sign up in December for January, January for February, etc.) The January tour is already full. There is no December tour.
Janice Shepherd announced that Nancy Channell has volunteered to organize the events for next year. The December event on Dec. 18 is “Classic Hikes in Glacier’s High Country.” See the newsletter for upcoming events. Please remember that there is limited seating (approx.. 100 seats) for these events. 
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings. Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
December birthdays were recognized.
Old Business:
A New Year’s Eve Potluck will be held at the Masonic Lodge on Dec. 31 from 5 pm until 8 pm. The cost is $5.00 and a dish to feed 8 people to share. Last day to sign up for the event is Dec. 20. The club will provide a main dish. Appetizers, side dishes, deserts, etc. are requested. This is also a BYOB event.
New Business:
Joan Robinson thanked everyone who provided gifts for the Salvation Army Giving Tree.
Is there any interest in starting up a member driven computer club? Contact Les.
Guest Speaker:
Scott Beilfuss from Solstice (formerly The Atrium) spoke about different levels of senior care in our area and what Solstice can provide.
Meeting adjourned at 11 am. 
Jo Ann Hargis, secretary

November, 2017 Minutes
​11/8/2017

The meeting called to order at  10 am by President Les Slowik.
The October meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reported balances of $2,602.69 in our checking account and $6,516.40 in our money market account. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation.
Because expenses for our monthly coffees have risen so much in the past year, from $374 in 2016 to $864 to date this year, Susan wanted membership to be aware that as the quality and quantity of pasties baked by
Tizza Chace have increased it has come at a cost. A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously that the additional money is well spent and to continue as we have been. We appreciate Tizza’s efforts.
Ethel Oatman reported we have several new members and guests attending today. Monica Kostron, Becky Chesnut and Bob Handford, John and Sandy McCarty, Roger and Lucille Miller and Jack and Kathy Wheeler are new members. Guests were Sherri Grona, Lynda Stahl and Kathy Valvoda. Kathy joined after the meeting.
Linda Ash sent cards to Jim Burch, who was hospitalized for a while, and to the family of former member Pamela Snider, who died Oct. 21. As the We Care person, Linda asks that members let her know of anyone who has been ill or has suffered a loss.
Carolyn White said that Donna Gabriel will now handle mailing out the printed version of the newsletter. She expects the December issue will be a bit late because of travel plans.
We didn’t get a website update because Jim and Pam Hughes are still travelling.
Nancy Channell said next week’s Lunch and Tour at Chez Lena is full with a waiting list of thirteen. She reiterated the need to notify the tour contact if you cannot attend so that others may take your place. There will be no Lunch and Tour in December. I.P. Potyondy then gave a summary of tours in 2018. The newsletter will include details on all of them. 
Because the restaurant at Redlands Mesa won’t be open some winter months and Tiara Rada’s grill has also switched to winter hours, Bob Noble will find another venue for our third Thursday happy hour this month.
Money was collected for our two parties in December: For the holiday party buffet the organizers ask that we indicate an entrée choice now and honor that when we load our plates. Ann Repka said she’d host a create-acenterpiece get-together if more centerpieces are needed. We’ll also need volunteers at the coffee station and table captains for clearing tables at the end of the evening. 
Joy Bush has 22 people signed up now for the New Year’s Eve party. The deadline to sign up is Dec. 20,

October 2017 Minutes
​10/11/2017

The meeting called to order at  10:02 am by Bob Noble.
The September meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report.  Balances are money market account $6,515.92 and checking account $2,475.93. Motion received and seconded to accept the report passed by acclamation.
Bob recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. Thank you, Sandy and Dave French, for the goodies. Please note that if there are any leftovers, baggies are available for take home.
Ethel Oatman reported we have three guests, Melanie Gallagos and Robert and Lara Himber. We have eight new members registered. She also welcomed eight new members Steve and Jo Ann Wacker, Bob and Eva Delone, Mike and Letty Ellinger, Lorene Vashus and Jan Stark. 
Linda Ash reported that no cards were sent this month.
Carolyn White reported that the new directory was distributed this week. Also that the website will have a new page for travel information providing club member contacts for specific information. However, we need to now supply her with a list of resources and the contacts.
Webmasters Jim and Pam Hughes reported that there were some small changes to our site.
I.P. and Martha Potyondy provided updates on the October and November Lunch and Tours. Both tours are currently full. Please notify them if you cannot make a tour as planned. Nancy Channell can be notified at (970) 314-7102 before the event and on the day of the event please contact Martha via her cell at (713) 409-6064. The October tour is next Wednesday, the 18th, meeting at St. Mary’s Hospital main lobby at 10 am for a tour of the heliport and lunch at the Ale House afterward. The November tour will be Nov. 15 at Western Community College, meeting at 10:30 am at Chez Lena on campus.
 
Armchair Travelers is back. Janice Shepherd announced the October event will be Monday, Oct. 16, at 6:30 pm at the Main Library. The topic will be the Best of Colorado Wilderness. Events are now scheduled through the year. Nancy Channell has volunteered to organize the events for next year. Please remember that there is limited seating (approximately 100 seats) for these events. 
Douglas Grodt announced that they have listened to the club members and are now scheduling longer hikes. The next hiking event on Oct. 12 will be to Dominguez Canyon and will be a 4 – 4 ½  hour hike.  The meeting place will be at the Orchard Mesa City Market at 8:45 am.
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings. Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
October birthdays were recognized

September, 2017 Minutes
​9/13/2017

​Minutes – September 13, 2017
The meeting was called to order at 10 am by President Les Slowik.
The August meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report.   Balances are money market account $6,515.40 and checking account $3,411.04.  
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee.  Thank you, Tizza Chace, for the goodies. Please note that if there are any leftovers, baggies are available for take home.
Ethel Oatman reported we have four guests, Lucille and Roger Miller, originally from Doylestown, PA, and Kathleen and David Gissing of Bailey, CO.
Linda Ash received a thank you note from Peggy Pretti that she read to the attendees.  She noted that she sent a get well card to Tina Grodt.
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes.  Winners were all pleased with their winnings.  Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
September birthdays were recognized.
Old Business:
The pig roast was a success with 71 participants. All had a great time.
Last month Susan Hanson spoke about sessions for teachers to address the problem of suicides in our schools and asked if the club would support a financial contribution of $200 for snacks. There was discussion regarding making this group a charitable organization. A motion was made, seconded and passed by a show of hands to donate $200 to the cause. 
New Business:
We discussed the potential for a New Year’s Eve potluck Send your ideas to Les.
 
Club brochures will be reprinted for distribution to realtors, etc.
The Lunch and Tour team would like your ideas for 2018 tours.
Guest speaker Kristin Lynch from the Western Colorado Community Foundation presented a short slideshow highlighting the projects that are funded.
Events:
Lunch and Tour:
 9/22 – CAPCO, 10 am – Full  10/18 – St Mary’s Heliport, 10 am  11/15 – Chez Lena, Western Community College Culinary School
 
The Plane Crazy group is having a field trip on Tuesday Sept. 19, to the Olathe Crop Dusting airfield and airplanes.  Contact Ernie Stech or Yvonne Spaulding at 314-2275 or ernie1933@gmail.com
The hiking group is going to the Skyway area to view the colors on Sept. 21.
Future Events to keep in mind:
 Holiday Dinner and Party is slated for Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017 from 5 - 8 pm with dinner served at 6:00pm.  The event will be held at Redlands Community Center [This has since been changed.]  Next Newcomers meeting guest speaker is from Marillac.
 
Meeting adjourned at 11:03 am.  
Jo Ann Hargis, Secretary

July, 2017 Minutes
​7/9/2017

The meeting called to order at 10 am by President Les Slowik. To recognize the recent passing of three members—Dennis Pretti, Pam Lochrie and Howard Oatman—Les called for a moment of silence.
 
The July meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
 
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report. Balances are money market account $6,515 and checking account $4,170. 
 
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. Thank you, Tizza Chace, for the goodies. Please note that if there are any leftovers, baggies are available for take-home.
 
We had several new members joining us today: Jim and Madge DuBois, Betty Jacobson, Lina Paloma, Steve and Donna Reed, and John and Karen Sinclair.
 
Linda Ash sent a card to Reid Worlton, who is recovering from surgery, in addition to sympathy cards to the families of Dennis, Pam and Howard.
 
Janice Shepherd still needs presenters for Armchair Travelers. She will retire as the organizer after this year and needs someone to work with the Central Library to continue this very popular program.
 
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office will put on a drone demonstration for our Plane Crazy people on Aug. 15 at 4 pm at Canyon View Park.
 
The August Lunch and tour of the police department and 911 call center is full. The September tour will be on a Friday, Sept. 22, and will be limited to 20. In October we will tour St. Mary’s Care Flight Heliport. November will be a special lunch at Chez Lena. The cost is expected to be between $15 and $25, and the restaurant will be able to accommodate up to 40 diners. Members are reminded that if they sign up for a tour and are not able to attend, as a matter of common courtesy and to allow for stand-byers, to let the organizers know.
 
Janet Johnson reminded us that Dinner Club will resume in September and new members are welcome.
 
Interest in bumper stickers was lackluster, and this project will not be pursued now.
 
Katie Sullivan still needs volunteers for set-up and clean-up at the pig roast. Reservations and payment are needed by Aug. 25. So far 35 have signed up. We were reminded that discreet alcohol consumption is ok, but no glass containers are allowed in the park.
 
Les said the Redland Community Center is a possible location for a holiday party. He’s looking for volunteers to help organize it.
 
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings.  Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
 
Those with August birthdays were recognized.
 
We had two speakers from District 51 to discuss the November bond and mill levy proposal. Because county employees by law cannot push for this legislation, Emily Shockley and Angela Christensen were constrained in what they could say freely, Basically, they said the $110 million would address a “tsunami of needs,” including specific items for each school, and allow for five additional school days (we’re now 15 days short of the national average.)  The website citizensforsd51.com/has detailed information on how the money will be spent.
 
Other Business
Susan Hanson introduced Adie Tilford, a concerned Grand Junction parent who is organizing an eight-week program for high school teachers that will deal with teenage suicide, communication and successful teaching techniques. To let the teachers know the community supports them she would like organizations to either fund or provide snacks for these sessions. Susan proposed that we consider a donation of $200-$300. This will be taken up at a later meeting.
 
 
Copies of Senior Blue Book are available to take home.
 
Susan urged anyone who is an Amazon Prime member to take advantage of its Smile program. When you use smile.amazon.com/ instead of just amazon.com, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase costs to a charity of your choice.
 
The final Music in the Grapevines concert put on by the Art Center Guild will be this coming Tuesday.
 
Meeting adjourned at 11.04 am.
 

June, 2017 Minutes
​6/14/2017

The meeting called to order at 10 am by President Les Slowik.
The May meeting minutes were approved by acclamation as published in the newsletter.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report. Balances are money market account $6,576 and checking account $4,237.  
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. Thank you, Tizza Chace, for the goodies. Please note that if there are any leftovers, baggies are available for take-home.
Ethel Oatman reported we had two guests attending the meeting – Barbara White and Betty Jacobson.  We have three new members – Doug Van Etten, residing in Fruita; and Leah Rezin and Jeff Midgley, most recently from Iowa, now residing in Grand Junction.
Linda Ash reported she sent sympathy cards to Cindy Brown and Alison Regan.
Guest speaker was Orilee Witte from the Colorado Welcome Center speaking about the activities of the center and recruiting volunteers.
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings.  Thank you to those who contributed to the prizes!
Remember that we are combining the June and July information into one newsletter.
New Business
Music in the Grapevines at Two Rivers Winery has restarted.    
We will have a booth at the downtown farmers market as a way to advertise our group.
We will also be marching in the 4th of July parade this year.  Come with your RED, WHITE, and BLUE –iest to celebrate our nation.
We are still looking for suggestions for a new logo. Contact Les Slowik for information.
Grey Gourmet needs volunteers, both regular and substitute members.  Contact Grey Gourmet for more information.
Events
Lunch and Tour – I.P. Potyondy said the June tour will be on June at the Persigo wastewater facility. Always check the Club Activities section for details.
Plane Crazy will visit the Commemorative Air Force Museum at the airport June 20.  Contact Yvonne Spaulding for future events and meeting schedules.
Doug Grodt announced we will have a plant walk on July 26 on the Grand Mesa. 
An additional day-trip will be to Dinosaur National Monument with lunch at Echo Park. See the calendar for details of future events.
There was an announcement regarding a possible new camping group with overnight trips. Look for more to come on this.
Janice Shepherd announced the need for Armchair Travelers presenters. Contact Janice for more information

May, 2017 Minutes
5/10/2017​

​The meeting was called to order at 10 am by President Les Slowik.
The April meeting minutes as published in the newsletter were approved by
acclamation.
Susan Norton reviewed the treasurer’s report.  Balances are money market account $6,513.17 and checking account $4,911.14. The report was approved by acclamation. Les noted that there has been a concern about the amount of money we have in our accounts. We will address this in the fall.
Les recognized the delicious coffee and snacks provided by the coffee committee. Thank you, Tizza Chace, for the goodies, and Les for making the coffee.
Ernestine Campbell reported we had four guests attending the meeting:  Ralph and Donna Gabriel from Illinois, Leah Rezin from Wisconsin, and Jeff Midaby from Louisiana. We have a new member; Nancy Needam joined this week. Welcome, Nancy!
Linda Ash reported that a get well card was sent to Wayne Westerson on April 13 and he was doing well.
Guest speaker was Sue Palmer from the Friendship Force, a non-profit with the mission to promote global understanding across people through travel and home hosting both domestic and international visitors. To join the group costs $35/year. More information can be found at www.thefriendshipforce.org.
The raffle was held with several nice donated prizes. Winners were all pleased with their winnings. Les noted that we are looking at ways to speed up the raffle. If you have suggestions, get them to him. 
Carolyn White reported that she would be combining the June and July information into one newsletter.
Our webmasters, Jim and Pam Hughes, are considering not posting all the events each month.  Please provide event pictures to them to include in the newsletter.
 
 
Events:
Lunch and Tour – I.P. Potyondy said the May tour is of the Mesa County Landfill with lunch at Las Marias afterward. The June tour is scheduled on the 21st. See the Club Activities section for details.
Wayne McCalla has scheduled a day trip to Dinosaur National Monument for Thursday, May 25, meeting at the Fruita Welcome Center at 8 am. We will carpool and travel through the park by car with two short hikes along the way.
Janet Johnson provided information regarding the Highline Lake clean-up on May 15.
Dennis Pretti announced the wine tasting is scheduled for Thursday, May 25, from 3-5 pm, tasting Spanish and Portuguese wines and tapas.
Doug Grodt announced the hiking group’s next hike at Devil’s Canyon in McInnis NCA. Meet at the Fruita Welcome Center. He is also planning a wildflower hike on the Grand Mesa in July. See the calendar for details.
Meeting adjourned at 10:50 am.   
Jo Ann Hargis, Secretary
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Minutes,  July 13, 2016

5/11/2016

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President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month's minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.

Treasurer Susan Norton reported we earned 33¢ on our checking account, $3,854.99, and 53¢ on our money market account, $6,506.78. 

Jennifer Murrell of the Mesa County Libraries spoke about some programs that may be of special interest to seniors. For example, patrons can borrow reading glasses or magnifying glasses while at the library. It has an ADA area with a high-tech scanner reader for the vision impaired. A handout of two of the library’s webpages—the home page for Senior Living and of Senior Living: Recreation, Travel, and Learning— showed the online availability of magazines, reference guides, classes, links and more. She had time to field a few questions about the production studio, book clubs and Independent Lens film series. She noted that Bob is on the library’s senior advisory committee and members could let him know of relevant concerns.

Tizza Chace and Les Slowik had a wonderful array of homemade baked goods for our coffee, and Tizza has promised to bring treats for every coffee starting in September. 

We welcomed four new members: Laura DowlenJones, Terry Keane, Ann Repka and Tony Weadock.

We Care report was given by Linda Ash, who said Jackie Noonan, Jerry Norton and Dave Brown are all recovering from recent surgeries.

Jim and Pamela Hughes are working with webmaster Joe Wharton in transitioning responsibilities for the website and flash emails.
 
I.P. Potyondy said the Lunch and Tour next week of the National Weather Service is full. Nancy Channell is organizing an Aug. 17 visit to the election board. The year will finish with visits to Royce-Hurst in September,
the Colorado Bureau of Investigation in October and Western Slope Industries in November. 

Wayne McCalla gave final details on the Aug. 2 Jeep trip in Ouray. The June trip to Dinosaur National Monument was “a blast.”
 
Jim Hughes reminded those in the wine tasting group that it was meeting the next day at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. 

With the club subsidy, here will be no price increase for the pig roast: $20 for members and $25.50 for guests. Susan Norton is accepting payment. More details will be in the August newsletter. 

Susan Hanson raised the issue of funding for the Centennial Band, given that the city is not funding the Commission on Arts and Culture and yet is charging the band to perform in its parks. She urged us to contact council members to show our support of local music and arts. Others suggested that the club underwrite the $250 - $300 that it costs the Centennial Band for a park performance. This will be an agenda item in August. 

Dinner Club will return in September with a slightly changed format. There will be no substitute members; everyone will be invited to every dinner. Members will host only one dinner during the season. 

The performing group Up With People will be in Grand Junction in August. To reduce costs to production crew and singers, local families are solicited as hosts. Kenny and Faith Alevy will have more information on the program. 
The raffle had several items donated by members. 
​
Meeting adjourned at 11:10 am.
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Minutes, april 2016

5/4/2016

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​Minutes, April 13, 2016
President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.
Treasurer Susan Norton reported we have $6,505.06 in our money market account and $4,429 in our checking account.
Sherry Schenk and Janet Johnson were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. We will need help after July.
Chris Thomas, CEO of Community Hospital, was our guest. Among the topics he touched upon were the hospital’s primary care strategy, a Medicare share savings program and a health information exchange, Quality Health Network,
Guest Raya Novak signed up herself and her husband Miguel as members at the end of the meeting.
Linda Ash announced the sad news of Jim Boylan’s passing. She also sent out cards to members recovering from injuries or surgery: Tony Portella and Kay Braukhoff. Janet Johnson will fill in for Linda when she’s away next month.
Bob is still looking for others who are interested in a trip to a NASCAR race in Phoenix on Nov 13. Wayne McCalla has a tentative date of Aug. 2 for a Jeep trip in Ouray. A trip to Dinosaur National Monument is also possible, and interest in another Morrow Point boat ride was sounded out. Details will follow.
Janice Shepherd urged us to attend the final Armchair Travelers session of the season. It will resume in October. Both the April plant walk led by Doug Grodt and the May tour of SunCrest Orchard Alpacas and Fiber Works are full. In June we will visit Leitner-Poma. Dennis Pretti invited interested members to join him after the meeting for planning on the new wine tasting group.
The raffle had several prizes donated by members.
The meeting adjourned at 11:04 am.
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Minutes  March 9, 2015

3/28/2016

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​Minutes, March 9, 2016
President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.
In Treasurer Susan Norton’s absence Bob reported we have $6,505.06 in our money market account and around $4,000 [exact figure unavailable] in our checking account.
Wayne McCalla and Sherry Schenk were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. We will need help after May.
Dana Liesegang, local author of “Falling Up, My Wild Ride from Victim to Kick-Ass Victory,” gave a moving talk about how the military treats sexual trauma, her efforts to walk again, and the power of forgiveness.
In addition to four guests, we had a new member, Lori Newsom.
Linda Ash sent out several cards to members recovering from injuries or surgery: Carol Todd, Lindarae Rindels, Marilyn Montoya and Jan Burch. Services for Marcia Norton will be held this Saturday.
Dennis Pretti invited interested members to join him after the meeting to discuss a new wine tasting group. Wayne McCalla asked for interest in a late July/early August Jeep tour in Ouray. Janice Shepherd gave a brief description of the March and April Armchair Travelers presentations. The March Lunch and Tour of KKCO is full. In April Doug Grodt will lead a wildflower walk in the Monument. May’s tour will be to SunCrest Orchard Alpacas and Fiber Works.
No new candidates were forthcoming for officer elections. Accordingly, Bob Noble, Susan Norton and Dennis Pretti will continue in their present positions. Wayne McCalla is an ex officio officer with his work on special outings. Beverly Kingsley has agreed to help Wayne.
The raffle had several prizes donated by members.
The meeting adjourned at 11:04 am.

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Minutes, January 13, 2016

12/28/2015

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President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at
10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.
Treasurer Susan Norton reported we have $16,042.70 in our checking account and $6,504.54 in our money market account. This is a $473 net increase over last year’s balance. We had 22 new members join last year, and have 215 memberships (single and joint) now. To date, 81 have paid for 2016.
Janice Shepherd and Cindy Duta were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. Ruth Trowbridge has volunteers lined up through May.
Steve Jozefczyk, business development manager for the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, spoke about GJEP’s efforts to attract business to relocate or expand in the area and to support local businesses.
We had two guests and a new member, Eileen Egloft.
Linda Ash said she had sent cards to James Boylan and Bob Norton, who have health issues, and to Tony Portella on the passing of his wife Carmelita.
We had updates on several activities. Paula Struckman said Janice Shepherd, Arlene Alberts, Les Slowik and Tizza Chace have joined the potluck committee for 2016. Armchair Travelers continues to attract a very good crowd. We will tour Reynolds Polymer next week as a Lunch and Tour; February will be a tour of the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
Dennis Pretti and Jim Hughes sounded out interest in a bi-monthly or quarterly wine potluck. Details are yet to be worked out.
The raffle had several prizes donated by members.
The meeting adjourned at 11:10 am.

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November 11,2015

11/11/2015

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​Minutes, November 11, 2015 President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. Since this was Veterans Day, he asked that veterans be recognized before proceeding with the meeting. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter. Treasurer Susan Norton reported we have $1,702 in our checking account and $6,503 in our money market. Martha Potyondy and Heather Holly were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. Last month’s minutes should have included Geri Mishmash as having helped with coffee. Ruth Trowbridge needs help for January (1 person), February (2 persons) and March (1 person). Our scheduled speaker city council member Chris Kennedy was not present because of a business emergency. Fortunately we had a second speaker, Sue Schore, who had a presentation on a relatively new program in our community. Members of the local chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation meet twice a month to create full-size quilts to be given to veterans. The website www.QOVF.org has full information, and interested members can contact Sue at sschore@outlook.com. We had no guests, but five new members: Penny Hopkins, Doug and Marilyn Griswold, and C.J. and Judy Neste. Linda Ash said she had sent a card to Jane Wethington and that she herself was recovering nicely from surgery. We had updates on several activities. Paula Struckman gave details for the New Year’s Eve potluck. Geri Mishmash said all the Giving Tree gift tags were taken, but gift cards and cash for the Salvation Army were welcome as well. Martha Potyondy was collecting $20 for the holiday party. Janice Shephard said the October Armchair Travelers presentation had around 200 attendees. She will be presenting a program next month on hikes done by the Great Old Broads for Wilderness. The raffle had several prizes donated by members. The meeting adjourned at 10:50 am.
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Minutes, September 9, 2015

10/6/2015

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President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at
10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.
In Treasurer Susan Norton’s absence Bob reported we have about the same amount in our checking account as last month. In other words, “we still have money.”
John and Lynn Dierks, who were visitors last month, were introduced as new members. Also present were guests Sue Lund and John and Judy Ness.
Linda Martin, Sharon Lovell and Ruth Trowbridge were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments.
Janet Roland of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) talked about its program for kids who need a voice in court proceedings. Volunteers are not mentors, but serve in an investigative role. CASA also has other positions open to help, as in office work and publicity.
Linda Ash reported that long-time former member Anna Plessinger had died and a card was sent to her family.
Dennis Pretti suggested some members might be interested in a self-guided trip to Paonia during its Mountain Harvest Festival on Sept. 25. The time of the Nov. 3 wine tasting has not been settled yet; it may be at 7 pm instead of 6 pm.
Next week’s lunch and tour will be at the new Community Hospital medical plaza. Changes have been made to the schedule for later tours. November will be a walking historic tour of downtown Grand Junction with lunch at Café Sol afterward. There will be a small charge for the tour. There will be no tour in December. According to I.P. Potyondy the planned Oct. 21 of the Ute Water Conservancy District is problematic. Before we can tour it, members must clear a security check (full name, Social Security number, $6 charge). No cameras, cell phones or bags allowed at the site. A show of hands indicated most members were not interested in the tour with those requirements, but an email would be sent out to all members to determine if I.P. should follow through with it or go with a different idea. I.P. asked for ideas for next year’s tours and urged members to join the committee to help plan the tours.
Janet Johnson had a sign-up sheet for volunteers for our fall clean-up at Highline State Park on Tuesday,  Oct. 13. It will conclude with a picnic.
The raffle had concert tickets and a bottle of wine.
The meeting adjourned at 11:05 am

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July 8, 2015

7/15/2015

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President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter. Treasurer Susan Norton reported we have $3,112.55 in our checking account and $6,500.71 in our money market account. Four new members were introduced: Jim and Pamela Hughes, Betty Lewis and Glenda Heath. Helen Stenmark and Alberta Husch were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. We did not have a guest speaker. Linda Ash reported on cards sent to three members in the past month. Susan Norton’s aunt passed away. Jamie Kaul’s mother died. Cynthia McCalla is recovering from surgery. Webmaster Joe Wharton asked for someone to help maintain the website in addition to Susan. He also solicited suggestions for changes to the site. Regarding special interest groups—Barbara Mysenburg announced the availability of the cook club’s reading list for the upcoming season. I.P. Potyondy gave a brief rundown on the next three lunch and tours: WPX Energy, the downtown fire station and the new Community Hospital medical building. Bob Noble reported on our farmers market booth and July 4 parade float. The booth yielded 18 contacts of people who said they were interested in the club. The Facebook posting about the parade has had 51 hits so far. Altogether, both were time and money well spent. Dennis Pretti said the two tours on the Glenwood Springs outing were very interesting. Those are ongoing and available to others if they weren’t able to go last month with the group. Other than another wine tasting at the end of October, no special outings are planned. Ideas are welcome. Dates were discussed for a fall clean-up of Highline State Park. Oct. 13 was chosen, and Janet Johnson will contact the ranger to make arrangements. The pig roast will be Sept. 7 at Canyon View Park. The price this year will be $20 for members, an increase from last year’s $17, but is still subsidized by the club. The cost for non-members is $25.50. Payment should be received by Del Wharton by Aug. 28. Alberta Husch reminded us that she’ll order magnetic name tags for $7. Joyce Olson said if anyone was interested in Grey Gourmet, it was possible to arrange to ride along on a delivery route to get a feel for it. The raffle had tickets to a Jazz Among the Grapevines concert. The meeting adjourned at 10:40 am
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JUNE, 2015

6/10/2015

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Minutes, June10, 2015

President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at
10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.

In Treasurer Susan Norton’s absence Bob reported we have $3,264.17 in our checking account and $6,500.18 in our money market account.

We had two new members: Cindy and Mike Duta and Lynda Knight.

Alberta Husch and Del Wharton were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments.

Guest Doug Van Etten spoke about the tremendous interest the community has shown in the formation of a local chapter of the Colorado Archaeological Society. The public is invited to its meetings, but participation in its field trips is limited to once only without membership. Information is available at www.cas-gj.org.

Linda Ash reported on cards sent to Marcia Norton, who had surgery, and to the family of past member Jean Studer, who passed away in May.

Dennis Pretti said the Glenwood Springs trip on July 25 was on with 22 people signed up.

Doug Grodt gave a brief run-down on next week’s Lunch and Tour at a lavender distillery and a visit to WPX Energy in July.

Wayne McCalla said he’d welcome anyone who wanted to ride with him to a July 7 piano recital by Jundi at the Aspen Music Festival.

Our application for a booth at the downtown farmers market has been approved for June 25. A few volunteers have signed up so far.

Participation in the 4th of July parade was approved with a voice vote. Total cost for the application and decorations is expected to be about $75. An email blast will ask for volunteers before the event.

Dinner club is signing up members for the next season. Joe Wharton observed that those who haven’t been to a happy hour recently were missing a great get-together.
 For the raffle, we had several items donated by members.

The meeting adjourned at 10:50 am.



Minutes, May 20 .2015

President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the 
newsletter.

In Treasurer Susan Norton’s absence Bob reported we have $3,707.23 in our checking account and $6,499.66 in our money market account. 

We had two new members: Bonnie Null and Mary Herrera.

Ruth Trowbridge and Del Wharton were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments. 

Barbara Bowman, director of the GJ Visitor and Convention Bureau, gave a presentation on the many aspects of the bureau. With a staff of ten and over 90 
volunteers, it was worked to attract visitors from around the world to “Colorado wine country.”

Linda Ash reported on cards sent to Mary Lou Martin and Geri Mishmash. She also expressed appreciation for the support she received after her brother’s passing.

Dennis Pretti proposed an outing to Glenwood Springs which would include a historical tour of the downtown
Minutes, April 8, 2015
President Bob Noble called the meeting to order at 10 am at the First Christian Church hall. The last month’s minutes were accepted as published in the newsletter.
Treasurer Susan Norton reported we have $3,694.94 in our checking account and $6,499.09 in our money market account. Taxes for the year have been filed.

Heather Holly was introduced as a new member.

Janet Johnson and Geri Mishmash were recognized for preparing the coffee and refreshments.

Jeff Garrett of Holiday Retirement filled in for our expected speaker, Adam Keen. Jeff mentioned a few volunteer opportunities at Mesa View and the Atrium. Those interested in seeing the all-inclusive properties are invited to have lunch there.

Linda Ash reported on cards sent to three members in the past month: Bev Kingsley’s husband Jack passed away; Marilyn Whorlton’s sister passed away; Peggy Pretti had knee surgery.

Dennis Pretti said the May 12 wine tasting is full.

Several dates for a member clean-up of Highline State Park were presented and discussed. A vote settled on April 29. A show of hands indicated 28 people would volunteer that day. Wayne Ash said he’d cook; Susan Norton will shop. Janet Johnson will contact the park ranger, and details will be communicated by email.

Upcoming events include next week’s wildflower walk led by Doug Grodt in the Monument, lunch and tour at West Star Aviation in May, a potluck on May 23, and Armchair Traveler next week.

Janice Shepherd is looking for the next year’s presentations. Also of interest is a talk on archeology in the Grand Valley to be held April 21 at City Hall.

We have submitted an application for a booth at the Farmers’ Market sometime in June.

For the raffle, we had several items donated by members.

The meeting adjourned at 11 am.
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