WINTER 2025-2026
SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FIFTYBETTER.COM
Give Back:
VOLUNTEER Dress for the cold Social dancing Northern Colorado entertainment Cozy comfort foods
Fifty&Better | 1
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2 | Fifty&Better
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Hearing connects you
to your world.
At Advanced Hearing, we believe that hearing is not just about sound—It’s about connection and bringing the joy of hearing back to your life.
Susan D. Baker
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED Serving Northern Colorado for 25 years
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist
Please call (970) 221-5249 for your hearing test and FREE consultation
4 | Fifty&Better
www.advancedhearing.net
contents
8 • Publisher’s note Connections
10 • Better home
Bring nature indoors • Cozy comfort foods Home pastimes
22 • FEATURE
Give back: volunteer
Now that you are retired or have some extra time on your hands maybe it’s time to volunteer. What are your interests? What skills do you have? Put those to use by volunteering and giving back to your community.
14 • Better health
Combat dryness • Dress for the cold • Add some heat
18 • Better living
Social dancing • Try a new game for free Northern Colorado entertainment
38 • Giving back
Vicki Fisbeck creates socialization through dancing
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FIVE STAR SERVICE FIVE STAR RESULTS As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I understand the unique needs and priorities of clients aged 55 and over. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating to be closer to family, or exploring the best housing options for your next chapter, I provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance every step of the way. My goal is to make the process smooth and stress-free while ensuring your decisions align with your lifestyle, financial goals, and future plans. “Both myself and my wife are in our eighties. We have bought and sold 7 homes. Never in all of those sales have we had a real-estate agent as helpful and pleasant as Jeff has been. He went above and beyond what was necessary and helped us resolve problems involving our age and abilities to get things done. For this and his professionalism we are truly grateful.” - Judy & Terry H “Jeff is the BEST!! He is proactive in a not-so-great market. Jeff was very innovative with his marketing strategies. He is very smart. He helped me get my home on the market by literally moving furniture, boxes, etc. He gives great detailed feedback. He offers to help all the way through the process. He is also one of the kindest human beings. I would recommend Jeff to anyone for the greatest experience of selling your house because he cares!! If there are fivestar ratings, Jeff is an 8. He is the BEST!!” - Kathleen G
WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE JEFF
• Comprehensive Expertise: I provide solutions tailored to your unique stage of life. • Specialized Senior Support: As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I understand the unique needs of seniors and their families. • Investment Strategies: I can guide you through using a self-directed IRA to invest in real estate, helping to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond the stock market. • Business Insight: With an MBA in Marketing and decades of experience, I bring a strong foundation in strategy, negotiation, and market knowledge.
I can help you buy, sell, or invest with confidence and peace of mind.
JEFF BIT TERMAN
Broker Associate/Partner | SRES® 970.420.4540 jbitterman@thegroupinc.com www.jeffbitterman.com 6 | Fifty&Better
What in the heck is a
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AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION
“I trust going to Kirk Eye Center for my AMD. I know that I am getting the best possible treatment.” — Barb Worthington, Loveland Barb is very active with her hobbies, sewing, embroidering, crocheting and paddleboarding, and she wasn’t going to give them up for eye disease. “My hobbies are very important to me. I’ve been going to Kirk Eye Center since 2018 for my dry, age-related macular degeneration. Dr Kirk always makes me feel comfortable during treatment. He also explains procedures to me very thoroughly. Plus, the staff there is incredibly friendly, and calls me by name. We often share stories about our families. It’s a very nurturing environment for eye care. I would highly recommend Kirk Eye Center to my friends and family with eye conditions of all types.”
www.ColoradoKolacheCompany.com
3650 East 15th Street | Loveland | 970-669-1107 | KirkEyeCenter.com May 13, 2025 • Kirk Eye Center • Barb Worthington RM Publishing 50 And Better • 3.5” x 4.25”
Fifty&Better | 7
From the Publisher
Connections The firefighters smiled at us as we approached with our Red Cross vests and name tags. “We’re always glad to see you guys,” one said as they packed up their gear. They had just extinguished a fire that had consumed a single-wide mobile home in a mobile home park and now it was our turn to help. The woman whose home had been destroyed was sitting in a neighbor’s living room when we walked in. She recounted the terror of feeling trapped in her bedroom as the fire burned in front and the heroism of her grandson who rushed back and helped her get out. Feelings of relief mixed with despair as the gravity of their situation began to sink in. We listened to their story as we handed out the usual toiletries kit, water, blanket and Mickey Mouse doll. We walked them through the list of agencies that help people get through the first few days after a disaster and where they could find clothing, shelter and food. We also charged a credit card with several hundred dollars for hotels and food. It didn’t seem like much on the scale of their loss but it seemed to be invaluable at the same time. Someone was there right away to help them with information and material goods. Someone cared. We left feeling as though what we did had made a difference for that person. Dan England tells the story of a volunteer in his feature this month. He talks about the reasons seniors choose to volunteer and ways to jump in yourself. Take a minute to read it and you might feel moved to jump in somewhere yourself. You don’t have to sign up for formal volunteering. Generosity is more of an attitude or mindset that we can develop and carry through our lives. Sprinkle in some empathy and add a dash of kindness and we’re ready to pitch in whenever a situation arises no matter how big or small. It’s shoveling the neighbor’s driveway or smiling at a lonely face on the street or offering words of encouragement to a friend in need. It’s slowing down to notice the little things because, as they say, the little things are the big things. It’s an odd paradox that when you give without expecting anything in return is when you receive the most. Life is about connecting and sharing our world, and to do that, we sometimes have to reach out. Imagine all the people, sharing all the world. You may say that I’m a dreamer… In gratitude, Scott
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Fifty & Better is a publication of Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. VOLUME 13 • NUMBER 4 PUBLISHER
Scott Titterington scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com
EDITOR
Kristin Titterington kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com
ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com
WRITERS
Dan England, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Linda Osmundson
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Harting
Copyright 2025 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc., PO Box 740, Fort Collins, CO 80522. 970-221-9210. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:
Need a little extra help? We’re here for you Groceries & Food Baskets Clothing & household items Utility assistance, and more LOVELAND Monday-Wednesday, 9-4 | Thursdays, 9-6 1511 E. 11th St. House of Neighborly Service
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Fifty&Better | 9
Better Home
Lea Hanson
Bring nature indoors AS TEMPERATURES DROP in Northern Colorado, winter brings both comfort and challenges for seniors spending more time indoors. Bringing a few well-chosen house plants into your living space isn’t just decorative—it can boost your mood, engage your mind and gently stimulate movement. Locally, Larimer County Extension lists “houseplants” as part of their Yard & Garden resources, saying they help with indoor foliage and plant issues even during colder months (https://www.larimer.gov/extension/Yard-Garden). Research supports this too: one horticulture study found that seniors caring for plants reported increased sense of competence and engagement. For practical tips: choose easy-care varieties like pothos, snake plant, or ZZ plant (they tolerate low light). Place a chair near the pot so you’ll naturally pause, water or wipe leaves—small gestures that keep you active. Consider a workshop through Larimer County Extension: https://www.larimer.gov/extension/Yard-Garden/services.
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Comfort food ideas COLD WEATHER OFTEN INSPIRES comfort meals, but for older adults it’s good to choose comfort food that supports nutrition, energy and health. Our friends at Weld County CSU Extension Nutrition & Health offer specific tips on nutrition for older adults who manage diabetes, special diets, efforts to increase gut health, and more: (https://www.weld.gov/Government/Departments/CSU-Extension/ Family-and-Consumer-Sciences/Nutrition-and-Health) Some quick tips for comfort-food meals with nutrition in mind: • Choose warm dishes like vegetable-rich soups, stews with lean protein, whole-grain breads or healthy casseroles. • Add color and nutrients: leafy greens stirred into soup, sweet potatoes, beans or lentils. • Mind hydration: seniors often drink less, so keeping a warm herbal tea or broth handy helps fluid intake. • Use smaller-portion pans, freeze half for a later day—so you enjoy the comfort now and save effort later. Both the Food Bank for Larimer County and Weld Food Bank have nutrition education and food programs. While seniors must qualify to receive some food items (United States Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program-CSFP), anyone in need can shop and access the education programming. Pairing comfort with smart nutrition helps inside and out: satisfaction, warmth, good fuel for your body and lower risk of deficiencies or unwanted weight loss.
Home pastimes—puzzles, knitting, crafts, cooking… WHEN THE WEATHER KEEPS YOU indoors more often, adopting home pastimes that nurture body, mind and spirit can help keep the body and mind busy. Through the Senior Access Points initiative you’ll find resources to support older adults in staying connected and active even at home. Options you can start today: •G entle stretching or chair yoga—Keep joints limber! Find a YouTube channel or other video resources from the local organizations you can do at home on your own time. • Indoor gardening—Care for houseplants or start an herb station on a sunny windowsill. • Creative hobbies—Painting, knitting, puzzle-making, or journaling are activities that stimulate fine motor skills and cognitive engagement. • V irtual or telephone-based social clubs—Many local groups facilitate seniors’ connection even when mobility or weather is limiting. • Cooking clubs or sharing recipes via phone/online—Use your comfort-food recipes, try new ones and swap notes with friends or family. These pastimes help counter isolation, support mental health and keep you feeling active and included even when snow falls or temperatures drop.
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COMPASSION WITH EXCELLENCE what we do
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Foot & Ankle • Hand & Upper Extremity • Pediatric Orthopaedics • Shoulder • Spine Hip & Knee • Joint Replacement • Sports Medicine & Concussions • Trauma & Fractures 12 | Fifty&Better
For more information visit: www.OrthoHealth.com
Expand your mind. Engage your world.
VISIT FCMoD TODAY & BECOME A MEMBER!
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Reservations Highly Recommended 150 W Oak Street • 970-224-1188 • BistroNautile.com
Fifty&Better | 13
Better Health
Katie Harris
Dress for the cold WINTER CAN TAKE A TOLL on our bodies if we let it, but a few preventative steps can help us stay healthy all season long—and even improve our overall wellness so we feel our best when spring arrives. Here’s how to take control of your winter well-being. As we age, our bodies lose heat more quickly and become less efficient at regulating temperature, increasing the risk of hypothermia. Frostbite is another major concern in winter, most often affecting the nose, ears, fingers and toes. While anyone can experience frostbite, Christie Daley, owner and director of Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services in Loveland, says it’s especially common in adults with poor circulation. Daley recommends dressing in layers of loose-fitting clothing to reduce the risk of illness and injury during the coldest months. She suggests starting with two or three thin layers topped with a water-repellent outer layer to keep skin dry and retain body heat. Hands and feet should always be covered with gloves or mittens and warm socks, and a hat that covers the ears is essential. Choose nonskid shoes to prevent slips on icy surfaces and wrap a scarf around your face to protect lungs from the chill. When at home, keep indoor temperatures at or above 65 degrees and avoid spending long periods outdoors in extremely cold weather. Watch for warning signs of cold-related illness or injury, such as ashy skin, numbness in extremities, slowed heart rate or feelings of weakness or confusion. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
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Combat dryness DRY, FLAKY SKIN IS ONE of winter’s biggest complaints, and it tends to worsen as we age and natural skin oils decline. AARP.org recommends starting your winter skincare routine with a hyaluronic acid serum, which helps attract and hold moisture in the skin. Follow up with a humectant-emollient moisturizer to add and lock in hydration, then finish with a skin oil over the driest areas for a healthy glow. Treat your whole body to an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells and smooth rough spots. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (aad.org) recommends using creamy, fragrance-free cleansers and following with thick ointment or cream moisturizer while skin is still damp. And don’t skip sunscreen just because it’s winter. Apply SPF 30 or higher on all exposed skin, along with an SPF lip balm to protect lips and lock in moisture.
Add some heat WHEN THE TEMPERATURES DROP, few things feel as good as warming up in a sauna or steam room. These spaces can reach up to 125 degrees of dry heat in saunas or 110 to 120 degrees of humid air in steam rooms, encouraging sweating that feels purifying and relaxing. According to clevelandclinic.org, saunas can do more than warm you up—they may reduce stress, soothe sore muscles, improve cardiovascular health, boost immunity and even lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. To stay safe, limit sessions to 15 to 20 minutes, drink plenty of water and exit immediately if you feel dizzy or short of breath. Avoid sauna use entirely if you’ve recently had a heart attack or stroke. Ready to give it a try? Many local recreation centers and spas offer sauna or steam room access. Chilson Recreation Center in Loveland features a co-ed steam room (lovgov.org), while Greeley’s Family FunPlex offers a sauna (greeleyco.gov). Woodhouse Spa in Fort Collins offers sauna access on its own or as part of a wellness package. Hotworx Infrared Fitness Studio in Windsor offers hot yoga and Pilates inside infrared saunas, combining heat and exercise for faster muscle recovery, stress relief and calorie burn (hotworx.net).
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O Fe t h e R v i A Gif 5G Y E
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of
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restaurant
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The Regional, a true taste of Fort Collins in a charming, inviting nook
in Old Town. Sourcing from many local farms and small businesses in
the community to bring you a delicious variety of unique, organic, and thoughtful dishes made with so much love, you can taste it!
Business Hours- 7 days a week Sun – Thurs: 4 – 9pm Fri – Sat: 4 – 9:30pm
Sat – Sun: 9:30am – 2pm
Happy Hour every day: 4 – 5:30pm
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eat local • drink local PARTNERING PURVEYORS & LOCAL FARMS
Folks Farm, Well Fed Farmstead, Belafonte Farm, Jodar Farm, High Point Bison and Beef, Cecil Farms, Hazel Dell Mushrooms, BC Honey Hives, The Bread Chic, Happy Luckys Tea Fox Den Cafe and Roastery, and Many Local Breweries and Distilleries!
Fifty&Better | 17
Better Living
Linda L. Osmundson
Social dancing THE INTERNET LISTS benefits of dancing as “decreases stress, promotes cardiovascular health, provides better cognition, enhances flexibility/balance” and much, much more. Whether single or married, local resident or not, dance at these senior or community centers; no membership required. Enjoy dancing to various local western bands. A break around 7:30pm provides time for sharing an optional potluck. • Fort Collins Senior Center holds dances the 1st and 3rd Mondays at a cost of $11 per person from 6:30-9pm. This year concludes with the Snowball Dance on December 15th. • L oveland’s Chilson Senior Center dances are the 2nd and 4th Mondays, 6:30-9pm, at $10 each. The holiday dance is December 29th. • Johnstown/Berthoud hosts dances the 1st and 3rd Fridays from 6:30-9:30pm at a cost of $10 each at 101 W. Charlotte St., Johnstown. A holiday dance will be December 31, 11am-3pm pm. Join the fun and meet new people while improving your health!
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Play a new game for free PURCHASING A GAME BEFORE trying it can be expensive if you decide you don’t like it. Why not borrow a game first? Visit the Toy, Game and Puzzle Library—https://tgplibrary.org/ —in Foothills Mall to try out a new game. While owners Sara and Doug Steen temporarily lived in Wellington, New Zealand, with their three daughters (2, 8 & 14), they discovered a toy/game library—a God send for their family. Fifteen years after they returned to the States, they decided to open a similar library. Sara Steen says, “I find joy in watching senior citizens work a puzzle in the same space where small children play.” This 501-c3 non-profit library offers space to play, special events and 3000+ items to borrow. Sign up for a free TGP library account and check out up to three items for three weeks. You can also donate toys, games or puzzles. Current hours are Saturday 10-4, Monday 3-6 and Tuesday 5-8.
Northern Colorado entertainment WINTER ENTERTAINMENT ABOUNDS from high schools, colleges/universities and large to small theatres. Performances include everything from comedians to musicals by professional traveling troupes and/or local talent. Union Colony Civic Center presents a Festival of Trees, It’s a Wonderful Life and Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour. Enjoy Candlelight Dinner Theatre’s Million Dollar Quartet, Christmas followed by Hello Dolly. Windsor offers One Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall! Several theatres stage The Nutcracker. Start with the performance schedules for these theatres. Search the Internet for more local shows.
LOVELAND:
• Rialto Theatre, 228 E. 4th St., www.rialtotheatercenter.org. • Candlelight Dinner Theatre, 4747 Marketplace Dr., Johnstown, CO, www.coloradocandlelight.com FORT COLLINS:
• The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, https://www.lctix.com/ • Open Stage, 720 E. Vine, https://openstage.com/ • Bas Bleu Theatre, 401 Pine St., https://www.basbleu.org/ • Aggie Theatre, 204 S. College, https://www.z2ent.com/ aggie-theatre WINDSOR:
• W indsor Community Playhouse, 561 E. Garden Dr. Unit A, www.windsorplayhouse.org GREELEY:
• Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave. https://ucstars.com/event-calendar/
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Sproutin’ Up 15th Annual Enchanted Garden Party
March 7, 2026 ~ 6:00-9:00 Old Town Fort Collins Block One Events
F Sil
C tA
M
l
Liv M i Di k dF !
Tickets $60 - available @ sproutinup.com Contact us if you would like to be a sponsor for this event: 20 | Fifty&Better
Pickleball
Learn & Play Fundraiser
JANUARY 24, 2026 picklr • Fort Collins Jessup Farm Food & Fun 5-8:30pm
Event details
TICKET details Family (up to 4) $60.00 Individuals $25.00
Open to individuals, teens, and families — whether you’ve never picked up a paddle or you’re ready to sharpen your skills, The Picklr Pros are here to help you level up your game. Play with purpose-Where all proceeds support Sproutin’ Up’s community & youth programs
sproutinup.COM for tickets
Food & Beverage for Purchase • Local vendors
Additional Child (up to 13yrs) $10.00
Proudly supporting Proudlyyou
supporting you Proudly supporting you
Proudly supporting you Robert A Royse Robert A Royse CFP®, AAMS®
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robert.royse@edwardjones.com 8010 S County Road 5 A Royse Robert CFP®, AAMS® Suite 206 Financial Advisor 8010 S County Road 5 Fort Collins, CO 80528 Suite 206 > edwardjones.com | Member SIPC 970-286-2084 Fort Collins, CO 80528 970-286-2084 robert.royse@edwardjones.com robert.royse@edwardjones.com
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Fifty&Better | 21
Clean out your closet for cash We pay cash on-the-spot for women’s fashion
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Call or visit our website to learn more
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CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN
A Champions For Children Donor is an individual or business that commits to a recurring monthly donation of an amount of your choosing – so that it best fits your budget – becoming actively involved in bettering the lives of the children we serve.
SCAN QR CODE TO LEARN MORE OR BECOME A CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN DONOR. 22 | Fifty&Better
SCAN HERE
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Monday-Saturday 9-10 and Sunday 9-7
Fifty&Better | 23
GIVE BACK: VOLUNTEER MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY JOAN RAABE STILL WORKS AS A NURSE, even though she’s technically retired—only now her patients have more fur. Raabe, 72, spends a few hours a week at NOCO Humane, an animal shelter that serves Larimer and Weld counties. She takes photos of the animals up for adoption and uses her nursing skills when the animals are spayed and neutered. She holds them for their sedation shot and clips their nails, but her favorite part comes after the surgery, when she cuddles them so they feel loved, relaxed and safe as they wake up. “I always loved animals,” Raabe said. “There’s something soothing about your relationship with your dog. Just being around animals makes me feel calm and happy.” Raabe, who retired as a nurse in 2011 at age 58, began volunteering in the mid-90s, but after retiring, she and her partner, Bob Randall, spent seven years wandering the country in an RV before she wanted to start working for others again. She also volunteers as a trail host for the City of Loveland’s Open Lands and Trails program and the Loveland Museums. “I felt like I was living a selfish life,” Raabe said. “I felt a calling to give back.” Raabe is one of many seniors who
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DAN ENGLAND
Scott
finds solace and fulfillment as a volunteer, so much so that there are organizations that help seniors find ways to help their communities. Cultivate supports seniors 60 and older in Broomfield, Boulder and Weld counties who need help with rides, physically demanding tasks such as removing snow from their driveway and getting groceries. But many of their volunteers are also seniors, said Katie Ellenwood, program specialist with Cultivate. “They understand what it’s like,” Ellenwood said, “and they want to give back to their community.” The organization works with the AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, and as a result,
nearly 300 of the organization’s 845 volunteers were seniors 55 and older. Even more amazing, those seniors served 23,000 of the organization’s 28,000 hours of volunteering. Cultivate helps seniors find places where they want to volunteer with its many partner organizations that need help, including food banks, shelters that serve meals and, of course, animal shelters. “We want our volunteers to have a good experience,” Ellenwood said, “as well as our clients.” Connecting seniors with opportunities to volunteer is a service to them as well: Seniors can face isolation, depression and loneliness, and volunteering gives them a sense of purpose. Brianna Hardy,
volunteer management coordinator for the United Way of Weld County, said volunteering at places like the organization’s diaper bank or serving meals for just a few hours can make a huge difference. “You see the sheer amount of diapers, and you know that will help take care of a lot of little babies,” Hardy said. “You get to see the results, and you get to see the impact you’re having.” It’s also a way for seniors to have a routine, get out of the house and may even help them make new friends. “We get to know the volunteers,” Hardy said. “And they get to know each other.” One good example came in 2020, when volunteers including seniors
Places that can connect you to volunteer: RSVP of Northern Colorado—Contact Bricee Bisgaard, Manager, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP & Volunteer Programs at 970-658-3881 or email Bbisgaard@voacolorado.org United Way of Larimer County–Call 970-407-7000 Cultivate–Go to cultivate.ngo or call 303-443-1933 United Way of Weld County—Call Brianna Hardy at 970304-6187 or email her at bhardy@unitedway-weld.org.
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made phone calls to other seniors who were isolated because of the pandemic. Cultivate called it the phone buddy program, and it was so successful it stayed after the pandemic ended. “Volunteers really wanted to be connected during that scary time,” Ellenwood said. The connections they make are real and sometimes deep, Ellenwood said.
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Some are mentioned in obituaries. “When one of our clients passed away,” she said, “six of our volunteers went to his funeral. They developed a friendship. It wasn’t just driving them to see the doctor.” Raabe said she loves volunteering because it keeps her from being sedentary. The extra hours she spends don’t wear her down.
“The busier I am,” Raabe said, “the more energy I have. I have to do something almost every day.” She feels fulfilled from those hours, perhaps even more than when she worked as a nurse. Some of her clients, after all, thank her with a kiss on the nose. “It’s so different from being employed,” Raabe said. “People are so appreciative. You always get thanked.”
DISCOVER A FORT COLLINS DINING DESTINATION ( SAVE ROOM FOR PIE )
CELEBRATING HISTORY, COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY AND PIE
A trip to FORT COLLINS just isn’t complete without a visit to Ginger and Baker, an historic, 100-year-old grain mill transformed into a hub for food and community. Stop by for a warm welcome along with breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, cooking classes, shopping, patios and the best pie in town!
The Cache
The CaFÉ
MARKET & BAKERY
Steak + Wine + Whiskey Savor hand-cut Colorado steaks, fresh seafood and great cocktails, mocktails and wine.
Comfort food done right. Dig into a new take on farm-to-fork American classics.
Pick up a locally roasted coffee, a slice or pie or the perfect gift. Our dog-friendly North Patio even has a menu for your pup!
THE ROOFTOP
TEACHING KITCHEN
EVENT SPACES
Check our calendar for seasonal Learn something new. Take house events including Afternoon a class on cooking, baking, Tea, Pie Bingo, Wine Tasting, cocktails, art and more. Pairing Dinners and all kinds of fun!
Celebrate special days. Choose the historic Mill Top or our intimate wine cellar.
Celebrating History, Community, Creativity and Pie Learn more at GingerandBaker.com | 970-223-PIES (7437) | 359 Linden Street, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 | Free parking directly across the street
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Giving, Growing, and Grace:
Effective Charitable Strategies for Legacy-Minded Investors For many successful families, generosity is more than a personal value—it’s part of their financial strategy. Philanthropy isn’t simply about giving; it’s about shaping a legacy, amplifying impact, and aligning financial resources with what matters most. And when charitable intent meets thoughtful planning, generosity can become a valuable component of a comprehensive financial strategy. Purpose Meets Planning Sophisticated investors know that meaningful giving works best when paired with intentional design. Whether the goal is to establish a family foundation, advance groundbreaking research, or support faith-driven causes, philanthropy can—and should—be as personal as your overall financial plan. But generosity without strategy can limit its reach. Integrating charitable planning into a broader financial framework allows affluent families help increase impact, may help manage taxes, and support passing down values. NEXT-LEVEL CHARITABLE STRATEGIES 1. Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) For families seeking flexibility and efficiency, a DonorAdvised Fund offers a powerful tool. Contribute cash, securities, or even complex assets like real estate; potentially secure an immediate charitable deduction; and invest the balance for potential growth before recommending grants to qualified charities. It’s a way to give on your timeline while maintaining control over how funds are distributed. 2. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) For those age 70½ or older, giving directly from an IRA to a qualified nonprofit can satisfy required minimum distributions while keeping the withdrawal off taxable income. For high-income households, this strategy can be particularly valuable in managing overall tax exposure.
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3. Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) For those holding highly appreciated assets, CRTs provide a unique opportunity. By donating the asset to a trust, individuals can defer capital gains, generate an income stream for life, and ultimately direct the remainder to a chosen charity. It’s a strategy that balances personal financial security with lasting philanthropic impact. TAX EFFICIENCY AS A MULTIPLIER While few give solely for tax benefits, there’s no denying that the tax code encourages charitable action. Leveraging tools like bunching deductions, gifting appreciated stock, or establishing charitable lead trusts can help reduce taxable income and redirect wealth toward the causes closest to your heart—rather than to the IRS. Because these strategies are complex, collaborating with a qualified tax professional is essential. Aligning tax planning with charitable goals can free up resources, enabling families to give more while maintaining financial strength. FROM GIVING TO LEGACY At Layman Lewis Financial Group, we work closely with families who want their philanthropy to reflect both generosity and vision. We’ve seen how charitable planning
LaymanLewis.com
can become the cornerstone of a broader wealth strategy by helping to: • Establish a family-giving culture that engages children and grandchildren
If you’d like to explore how charitable planning could fit into your
• Influence causes at both local and national levels
broader financial picture, the team at Layman Lewis Financial Group is
• Ensure wealth passes to the next generation with purpose
here to have that conversation with you. www.laymanlewis.com
and precision
Insurance products are offered through the insurance business
For many clients, charitable planning isn’t just about
Layman Lewis Financial Group. Layman Lewis Financial Group is
supporting today’s causes—it’s about creating an enduring
also an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services
impact that lives well beyond their lifetime.
through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Advisor. AEWM does not offer insurance products. The
DREAM BIGGER WITH YOUR GIVING
insurance products offered by Layman Lewis Financial Group are not
What if your charitable strategy could help increase your
subject to Investment Advisor requirements. Investing involves risk,
impact, mitigate tax drag, and preserve your family’s values
including the potential loss of principal. Neither the firm nor its agents or
across generations?
representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult
For affluent families, intentional giving offers the
with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing
opportunity to align wealth with purpose. It’s about creating
decisions. This article is meant to be general and is not investment or
influence, shaping legacy, and crafting a philanthropic
financial advice or a recommendation of any kind. Please consult your
footprint that reflects what matters most.
financial advisor before making financial decisions. 3284262 - 10/25
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offers a vibrant, beautifully designed community with a continuum of care to Opening late 2025, The support every need.
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Gallery etirement living in at Fort Collins northern Colorado offers a vibrant, beautifully is about to be transformed with the community with designed introduction of The Gallery at Fort Collins. to open a Set continuum of care to late 2025, The Gallery offers a crafted, holisticsupport approach every need. to senior living, blending an array of care options—from independent and assisted living to Memory Care—while celebrating the creative spirit RENDERING COURTESY OF EXPERIENCE SENIOR LIVING of its residents. Priority The Gallery at Fort Collins is anticipated to open it’s doors by late 2025. (Rendering courtesy: Experience Senior Living) deposits are now being accepted, offering exclusive transportation services adds be available, allowing every Life-Enriching Memory Care early access to a one-of-a-kind extra convenience. Residents resident to enjoy the full range Everyone's journey is unique, experience designed to nurture can unwind in the outdoor of flavors. For casual gatherings, inspiring our care team to the individual stories of its courtyard, enjoy artsFrom and themed the casual plenty Memory Care needs. dinners to bistro provides RETIREMENT LIVING IN northern Life-Enriching adjust and understand each members. crafts classes,holiday or explore local of spaces celebrations, meals areto connect.Memory Care atperson's Colorado is set for a transformation strengths and abilities The Gallery artist installations. With large Located in a vibrant corner Cognitive challenges can affect crafted with care. Gluten-free, with the upcoming Gallery atliving Fort quarters, For those lowwho prefer to cook, a nurturing environment provides housekeeping, of Fort Collins, The Gallery everyday life, highlighting select apartments feature carb, and low-sugar options ensure opening in late 2025. and Offering landscaping services, The is moreCollins, than just a place tailored to cognitive needs. With our dedication to creating full kitchens or kitchenettes, Gallery offers a maintenanceto live; it's an invitation to all residents enjoy a full range of independent living, assisted living, opportunities for social interaction opportunities for social allowing residents to create free lifestyle. The location also create, connect, and Care, thrive. interaction and participation in flavors. Select apartments also and Memory The Gallery blends meals in their own time. and planned activities, residents provides easy access to I-25 and “The Gallery at Fort Collins is both planned and impromptu feature kitchens modern with creativity, Denver International Airport, or kitchenettes for receive personalized support in a designed to be acomfort masterpiece Designed for Every Stage of Life activities. We emphasize the seeking both to cook. those who love fosteringplanned an engaging lifestyleperfect for for those of thoughtfully spaces secure, engaging setting. of honoring and importance Enter a nurturing and dynamic convenience and connection to and community-centered residents. Priority deposits are now respecting every individual community where key details nature. experiences,” says Bryan a cherished member of our Independent Living in the open for those seeking an enriching A Place to Thriveas with Care are thoughtfully cared for. From Sanchez, Sales Director. “Our community. In Fort Collins, residents can Heart of the Rockies delightful culinary experiences senior experience. Always Nearby residents will living be able to explore immerse themselves in local and attentive to their creativity, engage in rich A Place The Gallery’s Independent Living housekeeping Safety and security aretoatThrive, the with Care culture, savor culinary delights, reliable transportation, and culturalAexperiences, and enjoy Always Nearby community caters to maintenance, active older our dedicated Canvas for Every Story core of The Gallery, with 24/7 and explore art galleries that a lifestyle that nurtures both Safety,services security, and peace of stir the imagination. Nearby, adults who cherish community The Gallery fosters individuality team ensures you can fully emergency response body and mind.” mind are integral to life at premier golf courses, hiking immerse yourself in creating connections and outdoor and belonging, situated in a city and a comprehensive care model The Gallery at Fort Collins. trails, and breathtaking A Canvas for Every Story lasting memories and enjoying adventures. Nestled in the foothills rich in art, nature, and culture. to age Residents willinhave access vistas await, offering endless life to its fullest. that allows residents Everything at The Gallery is Rockies, residents have Thoughtfully designed spaces to is 24/7 emergency opportunitiesof forthe outdoor place. “Our team committed to response designed to foster individuality Living in the Heart services, ensuring recreation in the heart of to hikingIndependent easy access trails, scenic encourage creativity, whether supporting each resident’s uniquethey feel and a sense of belonging. of the Rockies supported and cared for Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. vistas, and golf courses. watercolor Nestledthrough in the heart of Fortclasses, expertjourney,” says Executive every day.Director The Gallery’s Discover the freedom of Collins—a community where led lectures, or time spent in Every lush experience at The Deedra Moats. comprehensive care model Independent Living designed art, nature, and culture Gallery will inspire from in Assisted allows couples Assuredjoy, Support Living older adults gardens. Modern comforts and For more information, tours,and or individuals for vibrant who converge—The Gallery offers concerts that bring music to to age in place, with support For those needing additional timeless style combine a enjoy ansupactive lifestyle and early-access opportunities, visit thoughtfully designed spaces to cultivate life to thoughtfully curated tailored to their changing need cherish community Galleryatfortcollins.com connections. port,With Assisted individuvibrant lifestyle. that blend modern comforts cultural outings. an Living offers or contact Nestled in the foothills of the with timeless style. These Deedra Moats, activity calendar brimming alized care, including help with daily Bryan Sanchez at bsanchez@Executive inviting spaces encourage Director, notes, “Our team is with 60 to 80 events a week, the Rocky Mountains, The Gallery activities like medication manageA Culinary Experience That Feels eslliving.com 970-722-8885. at Fort Collins offers easy access orcommitted creativity to flow, whether to supporting each possibilities for connection, selfto nature's treasures, including ment and dressing. The compasLike Home you're relaxing in a lush garden, expression, and adventure are resident’s unique journey. hikingresidents trails, mountain streams, Whether they are enjoying the participating sionate care team ensures Dininginisaawatercolor highlight at The endless. Gallery, scenic vistas, and plenty of golf class, orwith attending an expert-led vibrancy of independent living receive the assistancecourses. they need a chef-led team curating fresh, As your needs evolve, A Culinary Experience That Feels lecture. Every detail has been or receiving the specialized while maintaining independence. tailored toLike dietary our team makes sure you Home crafted nutritious to cultivatemeals a vibrant, care they need, we are here to continue to enjoy worry-free dynamic lifestyle. provide the resources that allow The Gallery offers a dining Independent Living. them to live their best life.” experience that’s as exceptional Residents will enjoy a range of Assured Support in Assisted Living For more information about 30 |amenities, Fifty&Better world-class including as the community itself. With a chef-led team, residents can a casual bistro, cocktail bar,
Discover Elevated Senior Living in Fort Collins
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A Holistic Approach
to Restoring Confidence and Wellness For nearly 30 years, Dr. Nola MacDonald has been serving the Fort Collins community with a compassionate, whole-person approach to healthcare. Rather than focusing only on symptom relief, she looks at the underlying causes of each concern, helping patients achieve lasting wellness through natural, evidencebased solutions that support both physical and emotional health. One of her latest additions to the practice, the BTL Emsella chair, is a breakthrough, non-invasive treatment for urinary incontinence and pelvic floor weakness. These concerns can affect both women and men, often following childbirth, aging, or surgery, and can significantly impact daily comfort and confidence. Emsella uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, delivering thousands of deep contractions in a single, fully clothed session. Patients often describe the experience as simple yet life-changing, with noticeable improvements in control, stability, and quality of life—all without downtime or discomfort. As part of her commitment to offering innovative, medication-free options, Dr. MacDonald has also incorporated Exomind and Emsculpt Neo (now FDA approved with a functional mode that retrains muscles and supports physical performance). Together, these advanced technologies reflect her mission: to help patients heal and thrive naturally. With decades of experience and a truly holistic perspective, Dr. MacDonald continues to redefine wellness—empowering her patients to feel strong, confident, and in control again.
Dr. Nola MacDonald, DO
Icforhealth.com 970-472-8008
Call us today for a FREE consultation! 32 | Fifty&Better
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Giving Back
Linda L. Osmundson
Vicki Fisbeck creates socialization through dancing VICKI FISBECK MOVED FROM Nebraska with her parents to Holyoke, Colorado, at the age of 9 and lived there until her marriage to Billy Ray Fisbeck in 1966. They moved to Longmont and other cities until eventually settling in a cozy Fort Collins home. After 55 years of marriage, three children and ten grandchildren, Vicki lost Billy Ray to cancer in 2021. A stay-at-home wife and mom, Vicki says, “I started volunteering at my kids’ elementary school and found it so enjoyable to help the teachers, be around my own kids and get to know their friends!” She continued volunteering at schools until her children graduated from high school. “It was an amazing time of my life.” While giving time to schools, Vicki also volunteered at her church with a women’s Bible study. For 15 years, she led a weekly Bible study group at the Larimer County Detention Center. Vicki provided singing entertainment for 30 years at nursing and assisted living facilities around Loveland and Fort Collins. She recently gave up those activities to concentrate on her greatest joy— working with senior social dancers at the Fort Collins Senior Center. “It has been such a fulfilling and rewarding part of my life, to meet these wonderful dancers who are so young at heart!” She started working with senior dancers in 1997. She’d loved being a volunteer dance coordinator and water aerobics instructor, so, she inquired about other volunteer opportunities at the center. Vicki is the perfect person to work with seniors. She makes everyone
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feel special through her compliments, welcome greetings and encouragement. Dancers enjoy dressing in costumes. of fun, themed dances—20s, 40s, 50s, Veterans’ Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Valentines Day, among others. Costumes are optional but many showed up recently in red, white and blue for Veterans’ Day. Flapper dresses, poodle and Hawaiian skirts have graced dancers over the years. The senior dancers appreciate Western bands, like favorite Big Twang Theory, and their rhythms of Western Two-Step, cha cha, waltz and/or line dances. Since more women often attend, they are encouraged to refrain from waiting to be asked, but to do the asking or participate in the chair
dance. Chairs are placed at each end of the dance floor. Women wait behind the chairs for couples to approach and change partners with them. Everyone gets plenty of exercise, dancing and needed socialization. Vicki says, “I love learning the names of our dancers and letting them know that this is a place to come, have fun, dance, socialize and be accepted for who they are!” Dancing is a favorite pastime. She attends dances in northern Colorado not only as a volunteer but as a participant. “I love being such a part of this big dancing family and community.” Thanks, Vicki Fisbeck, for your many volunteer hours while living 45 years in Fort Collins.
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