FIVE STAR SERVICE FIVE STAR RESULTS
“Jeff was a rock star agent! He not only worked exceptionally hard on selling our house, but he also became a dear friend in the process. He was honest and open and offered great advice. He went above and beyond helping us. A “must have” person when selling, or buying a home in the Ft. Collins area.” - Tim H
“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 BITTERMAN Broker Associate/Partner
24 • FEATURE Road trip adventures
Is it time for a little road trip? Find 11 suggestions within a day’s drive. Try a train ride, glamping, a fancy resort, a ranch experience, gambling, hiking, sight-seeing, fishing and so much more. Enjoy your adventure.
A little time away From the Publisher
Kristin and I are headed to Taos again for our 43rd anniversary next week. We like Taos. It feels a little bit foreign with its adobe architecture, winding streets and awesome food. We like to settle into a place with a view of the mountains and cut up cheese and veggies and pour some wine.
We don’t do a whole lot when we’re down there. We might hike through prickly pear and rock cliffs on a desert trail by the Rio Grande or stroll through pine forests in the mountains. We’ll catch a happy hour or two in town maybe take the High Road down to Sante Fe for a day with a stop at Chimayo to get some holy sand and maybe lunch.
We’ll probably pull into the rest area by the Rio Grande bridge and peruse the goods that locals have set out for tourists. It’s always fun to chat with them. Maybe we’ll venture the half-mile trail into Black Rock hot springs along the river and maybe not.
Mainly though we’ll get up slowly, sip some coffee or tea, walk around the neighborhood, take a nap and then maybe motivate to leave the compound. We’re long past trying to see all the sites and ride all the rides when we go somewhere.
When we go somewhere we do a really good job of drifting around, like slow-motion exploring. One of us will see or hear of something that catches our interest and we’ll try to get there eventually, if it works out. Who knows, we might be on our way to that yarn store that Kristin heard about when a Happy Hour jumps out in front of us. What’s a person to do?
Even when we explore a new place, we seldom have that FOMO—fear of missing out. We definitely don’t have a tic list of places we have to see and things we have to do. In fact we probably have JOMO—joy of missing out. We just like to wander and see what we see. What happens is that things, people, events find us, so there’s really no “missing out” if you don’t have a list of things not to miss.
For us, the great thing about our little mini vacations close to home is that it gets us out of our day-to-day and lets us just enjoy spending time together. Sometimes that means, checking out a road or trail we’ve never been down before and sometimes that looks like us sitting in a courtyard sipping a beverage and reading.
Feature writer Dan England has put together a great little compilation of what he calls semi-staycations, spots that are close enough to drive to in a nottoo-long day. The variety is great. You could use this list to guide you on your next 11 getaways. It’s that good! We’ve been to many of these places, ourselves, and we’re looking forward to checking out more of them.
Travel is a great way to get some perspective and relax your mind and body. I hope that you get in a little (or big) trip sometime soon.
Happy trails,
Scott
Fifty & Better is a publication of Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc.
VOLUME 14 • NUMBER 2
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
Linda Osmundson
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Susan Harting
Copyright 2026 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.
Better Home
Linda Osmundson
Safe grilling
GRILLING ON HOT DAYS beats the heat of an indoor oven/stove top. Wind and wildfires require specific rules for Colorado grilling. Ace Hardware offers tips at https://www.coloradoace.com/grilling-safety-tips-colorado/.
Before summer, confirm local fire restrictions. Download Ace’s “grilling cheat sheet.” Place grill on a stable surface–pavers or cement, 10 feet from anything flammable like overhangs. On deck/patio, locate three feet from house walls/railings/overhangs. Leave lid open when lighting. Create a threefoot child/pet safety area.
Store propane tanks upright and outside, not in a garage, trunk or shed. Clean grill and drip tray often with grill cleaning supplies. Inspect gas line and propane tank for leaks. Learn local rules regarding pellets/charcoal. Use only charcoal starter fluid on cold coals. Make sure coals are “stone cold” before trashing in a metal container. Never leave a grill unattended. Store a fire extinguisher and/or baking soda nearby. Not water. Use long-handled utensils, fire resistant gloves and stay a safe distance from the fire. Here’s to safe summer grilling.
Create a bird-friendly yard
POLLUTION, URBAN SPRAWL, habitat loss and climate change contribute to declining bird populations. Fight decline by creating a backyard bird sanctuary where they can rest, feed, drink/bathe and nest. Benefits include insect control, plant pollination and seed disbursement.
Provide a food source—seed, nectar, suet, and fruit feeders. Study a bird guide for your location. Choose the feeder and feed which attracts your favorite species. Keep the feeders full. Add a water source—birdbath and/or fountain. Plant native trees, bushes and flowers. Place feeders and birdhouses
Pet companions
SENIORS MAY STAY ACTIVE and socialize during the day; however, if single, nighttime brings loneliness. Consider a pet. Choose carefully and benefits outweigh risks.
Studies show the bond between people and pets can increase fitness/happiness and lower stress. Benefits include decreased blood pressure/cholesterol and triglyceride levels, feelings of loneliness/depression. Although pets include cats, rabbits, hamsters or birds, dogs rank first. Owning a dog provides a responsibility for another life, an exercise routine, companionship, socialization and some security.
Seniors should consider adopting an older rescue or shelter dog. They are house broken and calmer than a puppy and less expensive than a breeder. Shelter employees know the dogs’ personalities, allowing for a better owner/pet match. FYI, as of April 2026, Colorado prohibits the sale of cats and dogs in pet stores, except for special adoption days.
When choosing a pet take into consideration your physical abilities, finances and the pet’s health. Set up a pet backup plan in case of emergency.
in locations with easy access for regular filling/cleaning/enjoying and predator protection. Avoid yard chemicals and/or pesticides.
The Audubon Society offers a free bird guide phone app at https://tinyurl. com/bdf37axr. Connect with other bird enthusiasts, such as the Northern Colorado Bird Alliance (https:// www.nocobirdalliance.org/) and Bird Conservancy of the Rockies (https:// www.birdconservancy.org/). Visit bird stores like Fort Collins’ Birds Unlimited (https://fortcollins.wbu.com/). Read their blogs and attend inhouse talks. Then, enjoy birdwatching in your own backyard.
Better Health
Dan England
First aid
A WELL-STOCKED first-aid kit will help keep you prepared for most emergencies. Local drug stores may sell them, but you can just as easily make your own and tailor them to activities you like such as hiking, camping or boating. Keep at least one in your car and one in your home, and it’s a good idea to have a kit with you when you go on adventures.
Include any personal medication—a few days’ supply is fine—and phone numbers of physicians, emergency contacts and your pharmacy. Check the kit regularly and note the expiration dates on meds.
Here’s what the American Red Cross suggests should be in your first-aid kit.
Two absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches).
25 adhesive bandages of assorted sizes.
One adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch).
Five antibiotic ointment packets.
Five antiseptic wipe packets.
Two packets of aspirin.
One emergency blanket.
One instant cold compress.
Two pairs of large nonlatex gloves.
Two hydrocortisone ointment packets.
One 3-inch gauze roller bandage.
One roller bandage that is 4 inches wide.
Five sterile gauze pads (3 inch x 3 inch)
Five sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
One oral thermometer
Tweezers
Instructions on how to use all this stuff.
The Red Cross sells all of these supplies on its website.
Tips for prostate health
ONE OF THE BEST WAYS to get aging men to wince is to talk about their prostate. But there are things you can do to help it stay healthy. Here are some tips from Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Consider a Mediterranean diet—Johns Hopkins says this diet may be the best way to keep your prostate healthy. It is rich in a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with whole grains, legumes, healthy fats from olive oil, nuts and fatty fish such as salmon, seafood and low amounts of dairy and red meat.
Avoid vitamin E supplements—A national trial showed that subjects who took it had a 17 percent increase in prostate cancer diagnoses.
Get some sun—Vitamin D is a great way to reduce your risk of prostate cancer.
Get screened—Get screened starting between ages 45-55 and earlier if you’re in a high-risk group.
Five ways to improve your cholesterol
THE MAYO CLINIC OFFERS five ways you can improve your cholesterol:
Eat heart-healthy foods—Gee, thanks, you’re saying, but even a few changes can really help, including cutting back on red meat and full-fat dairy products, eliminating trans fats and eating foods with omega-3 such as fish, walnuts and flaxseeds.
Exercise on most days of the week. Quit smoking.
Lose weight—Another gee thanks, we know, but even a small amount can help lower levels. You can swap sugary drinks for tap water, choose healthy snacks such as plain popcorn or pretzels and eat fruit, sherbet or fat-free candy instead of sweets.
Drink alcohol in moderation.
The Kids Are The Reason, The Cars Are The Excuse!
Timberline’s Annual Car Show is so much bigger than just a car show. It has become a MAJOR financial source for foster kids in Larimer and Weld counties through Royal Family KIDS.
Our mission is to create a mindset that reinforces the support of local foster kids. Bringing the community together remains a priority in hosting the 5th Annual Car Show. It’s designed to be a fun family event built around antique and unique cars. We offer Kid Choice Awards, an inflatable for kids, Live Music, and Food! We want foster kids to know they belong to a community that sees them and cares about their needs. Foster kids receive a free backpack stuffed with school supplies at the show.
RFK camp points foster kids toward Jesus. It is not unusual for campers to return as camp counselors when they age out of the program. It is that impactful! James 1:27 says support the widows and orphans. Let’s come together and be a community that leads the way in our city and state to make a difference in the lives of these young people. Please Join Us…ALL Are Welcome!
Lea Hanson
Getting started with pickleball
IF YOU’RE JUST GETTING INTO pickleball, there are a few things worth considering before you fully fall into the pickleball rabbit hole.
First, gear. You don’t need much to start. A basic paddle (usually graphite or composite) is enough for beginners, and most decent starter paddles fall in the $30–$100 range. A few indoor/outdoor balls are essential. And shoes matter more than people expect—court shoes with lateral support are recommended. Comfortable athletic wear and a water bottle complete the starter kit.
The benefits are part of why pickleball has exploded. It’s low impact compared to tennis, which makes it easier on joints, but still gives you a legit cardio workout. It’s also incredibly social—games are short, rotation is constant, and you end up meeting people quickly whether you planned to or not. For a lot of people, it becomes less about competition and more about community game” energy).
If you’re in Northern Colorado, there are some great places to plug in: Spring Canyon Park—Fort Collins www.fcgov.com/parks/
A major hub for pickleball with dedicated courts and a strong dropin community. It’s one of the easiest places to find pickup games at almost any skill level.
Oasis Pickleball Club—Loveland www.oasispickleballclub.com/
A newer, more structured facility offering indoor courts, leagues, and lessons. It’s a good option if you want coaching or consistent play regardless of weather.
East Memorial Park—Greeley greeleygov.com/activities/parks
A community favorite with outdoor courts and a welcoming mix of beginners and experienced players. It’s especially good for casual play and meeting other new players.
At the end of the day, pickleball isn’t really just about pickleball. It’s about showing up for something active that doesn’t feel intimidating, learning as you go, and suddenly realizing you’ve got a new group of people and a new way to spend your evenings.
Summer Festivals Outdoor Music Venues
Family FunPlex Amphitheater—Greeley
1501 65th Ave., Greeley, CO
Link: greeleyco.gov/news/2025/family-funplex-2025-summer-concert-series-announced
This outdoor amphitheater has become a consistent local hub for free weekly music.
It’s simple but effective: lawn chairs, picnics, and rotating bands that bring a strong community feel.
Mishawaka Amphitheater— Fort Collins area
13714 Poudre Canyon Hwy., Bellvue, CO
Link: www.themishawaka.com/
It’s one of those rare places where the drive is part of the experience, winding up the Poudre Canyon before you even hear a note. The mix of national touring acts and intimate capacity makes shows feel personal in a way bigger venues can’t replicate.
The Gardens on Spring Creek—Fort Collins
2145 Centre Ave., Fort Collins
Link: gardens.fortcollins.gov/Events/Public-Events/Concerts
A botanical garden that has really leaned into its summer concert series in recent years, pairing big-name touring acts with a super scenic outdoor setting. Food trucks, sunset light, and a surprisingly intimate vibe for bigger artists.
Greeley Blues Jam Music Festival
June 5–6, 2026
Island Grove Regional Park, 501 N 14th Ave., Greeley
Link: greeleybluesjam.org/
This two-day festival mixes downtown bar-hopping blues sets with a full park takeover for national touring artists.
Bluegrass & Brews Festival (Loveland)
June 5–6, 2026
Downtown Loveland (4th St. corridor)
Link: www.downtownloveland.org/bluegrass-brews-festival
Features two days of live bluegrass across venues like Foundry Plaza and a Friday night block party on newly revitalized 4th Street. With free admission, local craft beer, food vendors, and a strong lineup of regional and award-winning artists, it’s equal parts concert, street festival, and community hangout.
Fort Collins CSU Lagoon Summer Series
Wednesdays, June 10 through July 22
CSU campus lagoon area, Fort Collins
Link: lagoonseries.com/
The Lagoon Concert Series is a free, weekly summer tradition. It brings a rotating lineup of local and regional bands to a relaxed, outdoor lawn setting. The vibe is super community-forward—food trucks, families, students, and dogs all mixing together under the trees. It’s worth checking out because it feels like the easiest possible summer night out: no tickets, no pressure, just good music in a really pretty, low-key space.
What if your next vacation didn’t just show you a destination—but truly immersed you in it? That’s the spirit behind Let’s Explore!, a cycling and walking tour company built on one simple idea: travel is better when you experience it actively, curiously, and in great company.
After years of dreaming, planning, and riding countless miles, Lee and Randy turned their shared passion for cycling and immersive travel into something bigger. Let’s Explore! was created for travelers who want more than a checklist of sights—they want connection, discovery, and stories worth telling.
Our tours are designed with intention and heart. Picture yourself pedaling along quiet country roads lined with vineyards, strolling through centuries-old villages, or standing in awe at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine lingering over a leisurely lunch filled with regional specialties, local wines, and plenty of laughter. We believe the magic happens in the balance—movement and rest, activity and indulgence, iconic highlights and hidden gems.
With our base near Bordeaux, France, Europe isn’t just a destination for us—it’s home. And with Randy’s 20 years of experience leading bike tours, our local knowledge allows us to craft experiences that feel authentic and seamless. We know the scenic back roads, the bustling market squares, the family-run cafés, and the tucked-away viewpoints that most travelers never find. It’s these small, unscripted moments that turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.
We keep our groups small and our routes thoughtfully chosen to encourage genuine connection—to the landscape, to the culture, and to each other. Traveling by bike or on foot opens doors that remain closed when you’re behind a windshield. Yes, we work up an appetite—but that just makes the food taste even better. And in France, that’s saying something!
At Let’s Explore!, we bring together curious, fun-loving travelers who appreciate good food, meaningful experiences, and shared adventures. If you’re ready to slow down, look closer, and explore more fully, join us for a cycling or walking tour in beautiful Provence or the Dordogne.
Provence Cycling Tour
September 22-28, 2026
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Provence, beginning in vibrant Aix-en-Provence and cycling through the enchanting hilltop villages of the Vaucluse, filled with stunning vistas, lavender fields, and cobblestone streets. Discover historic Arles, explore its bustling market, and enjoy a gourmet picnic at the iconic Pont du Gard, paired with exceptional local wine. Along the way, savor the flavors, landscapes, and unforgettable charm of Provence while creating lasting memories.
Dordogne Cycling Tour
September 10-16, 2026
Mention “Dordogne” to a French native, and you’ll likely hear “La bonne cuisine;” a tribute to its famed foie gras, truffles, and Bordeaux wines set amid some of France’s most stunning scenery. Join us for a weeklong bike ride on quiet roads from medieval Sarlat to prehistoric Les Eyzies, passing castles, caves, and storybook villages. Pedal along the Dordogne River, canoe beneath cliffside towns like La Roque-Gageac, Beynac, and Domme, and experience France at its very best from the seat of a bike!
Provence and the South of France: A Walking tour for the Curious Traveler
October 1-7, 2026
Our curated walking tour of Provence explores three captivating towns—ancient Arles, papal Avignon, and charming L’Isle-sur-laSorgue—where sunlit cobblestone streets hum with history, art, and everyday Provençal life. Savor olive oils in Les Baux, taste renowned wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and enjoy a picnic of fresh baguette and cheeses by the Pont du Gard. From Roman ruins and medieval ramparts to plane tree–shaded canals, let Provence reveal its beauty on foot.
Journey through this Fort Collins botanical oasis and explore the rich variety of ecosystems that shape life along the Front Range—all without leaving the city!
FortCollins.gov/Gardens
XERIC STRIP
Road trip adventures
Dan England
IF YOU’RE LOOK FOR A SEMI-STAYCATION, we’ve got a few suggestions with the help of Linda Abramson, an agent with a travel specialist with 39 years in the industry who works with Travel Leaders in Loveland. Abramson, a senior, suggests many of these activities for seniors and has done many herself. All of these are a day’s drive from Northern Colorado.
The Canyon Spirit railroad and the Rocky Mountaineer offer luxury train rides through the West with plenty of viewing space and opportunities to see sights you wouldn’t otherwise experience. These train rides feature generous sleeping quarters and delicious meals as well.
Glamping in the Black Hills in South Dakota— Under Canvas offers a chance to camp in luxury in the Black
Hills. Abramson highly suggests a stargazing tent, which allows you to see the brilliant night sky of the Black Hills. Under Canvas also has outfitting in places such as Moab, the Grand Canyon and the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Broadmoor Resort—This famous luxury hotel, in Colorado Springs, offers both luxury and adventure. The rooms feature timeless European luxury in a classic style. The resort rents cottages from one to eight bedrooms that border the 18th fairway of the East Course, a 12,000 square-foot estate house and brownstones. It offers outdoor experiences through the all-inclusive Ranch at Emerald Valley, which has horseback riding, relaxing and fly fishing. There are opportunities to hike, bike or soak in a hot tub. Finally, there are special packages to take
in Colorado Springs’ many other offerings, including the Cog Railway, which takes you up Pikes Peak. There are packages for rock climbing, falconry and Soaring Adventure ziplines. Don’t forget Garden of the Gods too.
Brush Creek Ranch —This Saratoga, Wyo. Resort offers allinclusive, luxurious accommodations with fun adventures for all ages. These include cattle drives, fly fishing, horseback trail or picnic rides, barrel racing, a spa, nature meditation, archery, a gun range, guided ranger tours, a distillery tour, off-roading or yoga, including with goats. There are also more vigorous activities such as rock climbing, standup paddleboarding and hiking and activities for grandchildren. Estes Park—This Colorado city is home to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is worth a trip every season. Find year-round art activities, amazing dining, festivals and opportunities to explore places such as Lake Estes. Catch the fall elk viewing and peruse the many shops downtown.
Cripple Creek—If you’ve got a little gamble in you, visit this old mining town for lively casinos. But you can also pet and feed donkey biscuits to the town’s donkey population, which roam through the streets from mid-May to mid-October. The donkeys are descendants of their hard-working relatives who helped miners transport gold. A club formed in 1931 to help care for them and has ever since.
Estes Park—This Colorado city is home to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is worth a trip every season. There are yearround art activities, amazing dining, festivals and opportunities to explore places such as Lake Estes. Catch the fall elk viewing and peruse the many shops downtown.
Jackson Hole, Wyo.—This area is known for world-class skiing and Grand Teton National Park, but there are also many luxury accommodations, hiking, dining, fly fishing and wildlife viewing. The area is also near Yellowstone National Park.
Moab—This iconic outdoors town in Utah offers chances to see amazing arches via simple hikes that surround the city or on a drive through Arches National Park, home of the world famous Delicate Arch. Canyonlands National Park offers chances for stargazing, viewing petroglyphs, seeking out dinosaur footprints, touring incredible state parks and simply enjoying the town’s vibrant dining and art scene.
Road trip
adventures
Pagosa Springs—This overlooked city offers the Mother Spring aquifer, which holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s deepest. The waters from that spring fill the baths at The Springs Resort, the Overlook Hot Springs and Healing Waters Resort and Spa. These locations all offer something different.
There are also hikes, great dining and waterfall gazing.
Santa Fe, N.M. — One of the most beloved retirement cities in the world, Santa Fe mixes a vibrant downtown art scene with classic outdoors activities from its many world-renowned parks. These include Hyde Memorial State Park, White Sands National Park and Pecos National Historical Park.
Steamboat Springs—This famous town is known for its skiing but offers many more activities as well, with hiking to Fish Creek Falls or views of the Rabbit Ears and partaking in its hot springs facilities. There’s the family-friendly Old Town Hot Springs, one of the state’s premier hot springs, in downtown Steamboat Springs, complete with a slide. There’s also Strawberry Park Hot Springs, a more rustic, clothing-optional (after dark) hot springs that does not allow minors after sundown.
offers a vibrant, beautifully designed community with a continuum of care to support every need.
Retirement living in northern Colorado is about to be transformed with the introduction of The Gallery at Fort Collins. Set to open late 2025, The Gallery offers a crafted, holistic approach to senior living, blending an array of care options—from independent and assisted living to Memory Care—while celebrating the creative spirit of its residents. Priority deposits are now being accepted, offering exclusive early access to a one-of-a-kind experience designed to nurture the individual stories of its members.
Opening late 2025, The Gallery at Fort Collins offers a vibrant, beautifully designed community with a continuum of care to support every need.
Discover Elevated Senior Living in Fort Collins
Located in a vibrant corner of Fort Collins, The Gallery is more than just a place to live; it's an invitation to create, connect, and thrive.
“The Gallery at Fort Collins is designed to be a masterpiece of thoughtfully planned spaces and community-centered experiences,” says Bryan Sanchez, Sales Director. “Our residents will be able to explore their creativity, engage in rich cultural experiences, and enjoy a lifestyle that nurtures both body and mind.”
RETIREMENT LIVING IN northern Colorado is set for a transformation with the upcoming Gallery at Fort Collins, opening in late 2025. Offering independent living, assisted living, and Memory Care, The Gallery blends modern comfort with creativity, fostering an engaging lifestyle for residents. Priority deposits are now open for those seeking an enriching senior living experience.
A Canvas for Every Story
A Canvas for Every Story
Everything at The Gallery is designed to foster individuality and a sense of belonging. Nestled in the heart of Fort Collins—a community where art, nature, and culture converge—The Gallery offers thoughtfully designed spaces that blend modern comforts with timeless style. These inviting spaces encourage creativity to flow, whether you're relaxing in a lush garden, participating in a watercolor class, or attending an expert-led lecture. Every detail has been crafted to cultivate a vibrant, dynamic lifestyle.
transportation services adds extra convenience. Residents can unwind in the outdoor courtyard, enjoy arts and crafts classes, or explore local artist installations. With large living quarters, housekeeping, and landscaping services, The Gallery offers a maintenancefree lifestyle. The location also provides easy access to I-25 and Denver International Airport, perfect for those seeking both convenience and connection to nature.
needs. From themed dinners to holiday celebrations, meals are crafted with care. Gluten-free, lowcarb, and low-sugar options ensure all residents enjoy a full range of flavors. Select apartments also feature kitchens or kitchenettes for those who love to cook.
be available, allowing every resident to enjoy the full range of flavors. For casual gatherings, the casual bistro provides plenty of spaces to connect.
Life-Enriching Memory Care
Life-Enriching Memory Care
For those who prefer to cook, select apartments feature full kitchens or kitchenettes, allowing residents to create meals in their own time.
Designed for Every Stage of Life
Independent Living in the Heart of the Rockies
In Fort Collins, residents can immerse themselves in local culture, savor culinary delights, and explore art galleries that stir the imagination. Nearby, premier golf courses, hiking trails, and breathtaking vistas await, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
The Gallery fosters individuality and belonging, situated in a city rich in art, nature, and culture. Thoughtfully designed spaces encourage creativity, whether through watercolor classes, expertled lectures, or time spent in lush gardens. Modern comforts and timeless style combine to cultivate a vibrant lifestyle.
A Culinary Experience That Feels Like Home
Dining is a highlight at The Gallery, with a chef-led team curating fresh, nutritious meals tailored to dietary
Residents will enjoy a range of world-class amenities, including a casual bistro, cocktail bar,
Memory Care at The Gallery provides a nurturing environment tailored to cognitive needs. With opportunities for social interaction and planned activities, residents receive personalized support in a secure, engaging setting.
Enter a nurturing and dynamic community where key details are thoughtfully cared for. From delightful culinary experiences and attentive housekeeping to reliable transportation, and maintenance, our dedicated team ensures you can fully immerse yourself in creating lasting memories and enjoying life to its fullest.
A Place to Thrive with Care Always Nearby
Everyone's journey is unique, inspiring our care team to adjust and understand each person's strengths and abilities. Cognitive challenges can affect everyday life, highlighting our dedication to creating opportunities for social interaction and participation in both planned and impromptu activities. We emphasize the importance of honoring and respecting every individual as a cherished member of our community.
The Gallery’s Independent Living community caters to active older adults who cherish community connections and outdoor adventures. Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, residents have easy access to hiking trails, scenic vistas, and golf courses.
Every experience at The Gallery will inspire joy, from concerts that bring music to life to thoughtfully curated cultural outings. With an activity calendar brimming with 60 to 80 events a week, the possibilities for connection, selfexpression, and adventure are endless.
Independent Living in the Heart of the Rockies
Assured Support in Assisted Living
A Culinary Experience That Feels Like Home
For those needing additional support, Assisted Living offers individualized care, including help with daily activities like medication management and dressing. The compassionate care team ensures residents receive the assistance they need while maintaining independence.
The Gallery offers a dining experience that’s as exceptional as the community itself. With a chef-led team, residents can
Discover the freedom of Independent Living designed for vibrant older adults who enjoy an active lifestyle and cherish community connections. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, The Gallery at Fort Collins offers easy access to nature's treasures, including hiking trails, mountain streams, scenic vistas, and plenty of golf courses. As your needs evolve, our team makes sure you continue to enjoy worry-free Independent Living.
Safety and security are at the core of The Gallery, with 24/7 emergency response services and a comprehensive care model that allows residents to age in place. “Our team is committed to supporting each resident’s unique journey,” says Executive Director Deedra Moats.
A Place to Thrive, with Care Always Nearby
Safety, security, and peace of mind are integral to life at The Gallery at Fort Collins. Residents will have access to 24/7 emergency response services, ensuring they feel supported and cared for every day. The Gallery’s comprehensive care model allows couples and individuals to age in place, with support tailored to their changing needs.
For more information, tours, or early-access opportunities, visit Galleryatfortcollins.com or contact Bryan Sanchez at bsanchez@ eslliving.com or 970-722-8885.
Deedra Moats, Executive Director, notes, “Our team is committed to supporting each resident’s unique journey. Whether they are enjoying the vibrancy of independent living or receiving the specialized care they need, we are here to provide the resources that allow them to live their best life.”
For more information about The
Gallery at Fort Collins,
The Gallery at Fort Collins is anticipated to open it’s doors by late 2025. (Rendering courtesy: Experience Senior Living)
RENDERING COURTESY OF EXPERIENCE SENIOR LIVING
Your Brain Called—It Wants a Recharge
Asweage,mentalwellnessbecomes justasimportantasphysicalhealth. Stress,poorsleep,anxiousthoughts,low motivation,difficultyconcentrating,and unhealthyhabitscanallaffectqualityof life.Manyadultsquietlystrugglewiththese challenges,oftenfeelingliketheysimply haveto“livewithit”astheygetolder.
The brain, like the body, benefits from support and stimulation. When the nervous system becomes overwhelmed by chronic stress or emotional fatigue, it can be harder to feel calm, focused, energized, and emotionally balanced. Supporting brain health is an important part of maintaining independence and overall wellness.
Dr. Nola MacDonald has spent more than 30 years helping the Fort Collins community age well through her holistic, whole-person approach. By looking beyond symptoms to address root causes, she supports long-term wellness using personalized, evidence-based care that addresses both mind and body.
One of the newest technologies offered at her practice is BTL Exomind® , a non-invasive treatment designed to support mental wellness and cognitive performance. Using advanced magnetic stimulation technology, Exomind helps activate areas of the brain associated with mood, focus, motivation, emotional regulation, and impulse control—all without medication or downtime.
Many patients report improvements in stress levels, mental clarity, sleep quality, motivation, and overall emotional well-being. Exomind may also help reduce impulsive eating and support smoking cessation by targeting brain pathways involved in cravings and addictive behaviors. Healthy aging is not only about maintaining the body—it is also about supporting the mind.
Nola MacDonald, DO
When the Time Comes, You Get to Choose
Northern Colorado is full of people living active, intentional lives. They tend their health, they plan ahead, and they show up fully for the people they love. Playing an active role in end-of-life choices is no different. A good death — one that reflects your values, your wishes, and the relationships that matter most — doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because you tap into the courage to think it through ahead of time.
Though the word hospice may carry the weight of giving up for some, it shouldn’t. Choosing hospice for end-of-life care is not a surrender. It is a decision. It is an act of clarity about what matters most in the time that remains.
Hospice care is not the end of living well. It is a commitment to it.
Families who choose hospice thoughtfully, before crisis forces the conversation, often describe the experience differently than those who arrive at it in exhaustion and emergency. They describe feeling prepared. Supported. Present for the people they love rather than consumed by the scramble of figuring out what comes next.
That kind of experience is available to you. But it starts with a choice.
You Have the Right to Choose
Hospice is not assigned. It is chosen. Families in Larimer and Weld Counties have options, and the hospice you select will shape everything that follows,
including the quality of pain management, the responsiveness of the team at 2 a.m., the support available to you as a caregiver, and the way your family is held through grief both before and after your loved one passes.
One thing families are sometimes surprised to learn is that Medicare covers hospice care. If your loved one is Medicare-eligible and meets the criteria, the financial barrier is not what you may fear it is. And if your loved one isn’t quite ready for hospice, palliative care is always an option — specialized support focused on comfort and quality of life that can begin earlier in the illness journey, before a hospice level of care is needed.
Pathways Hospice and Palliative Care has been part of the Northern Colorado community since 1978. We were founded here, we are rooted here, and we serve only here in Larimer and Weld Counties. As a nonprofit, we answer to our patients and families, not to shareholders. That focus shapes everything about how we operate.
But we also know that the best choice for your family is the one you make with full information. So here is what to look for from any hospice you consider.
Ask the Questions That Matter
Medicare publishes a suggested checklist for families choosing hospice care. It’s a practical starting point, and the questions it raises are worth sitting with.
Ask about access. What happens after business
hours? When you call on a Saturday night with something urgent, how long before someone responds? Ask how many patients each nurse is carrying. That number tells you something real about the attention your loved one will receive.
Ask about symptom management. Pain control is the clinical heart of hospice care. A good hospice should speak to this directly and confidently — how symptoms will be managed at home, what happens if they become uncontrollable, and what options exist beyond the emergency department when a patient’s needs intensify.
Ask about the care team. A strong hospice doesn’t send one person to your door. At Pathways, every patient is supported by an expert care team including an RN Case Manager, a Social Worker, a CNA, and a Chaplain — all guided by a Medical Director who sits onsite to ensure best practices shape every patient’s care. Patients also have access to music therapy and other integrative therapies. Our volunteers are present with patients daily, and our Veterans program honors those who have served with care that recognizes their service as part of who they are. Comfort is not only clinical. It is human.
Ask about where care is provided. Hospice should come to you, wherever you call home, whether that is a private residence, an assisted living community, or a skilled nursing facility. Ask about inpatient care, too. When symptoms become unmanageable at home, families need an option that isn’t the emergency department. Pathways has an inpatient care center precisely for those moments — a place where patients can be cared for with the same philosophy of comfort and dignity, in a setting designed for it.
Ask about communication. Will you be included in care decisions, or handed a plan? How will the team prepare you for what to expect as things progress? The best hospice teams treat families as partners, communicating proactively rather than reactively.
Ask about support for you. Caregiving is profound and exhausting. What happens when you need a break? What emotional support is available to your family — not just your loved one, but you — through everything that comes?
Use the Data That Exists
Medicare’s Care Compare tool gives families access to real ratings based on real feedback. The CAHPS survey — the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and
Systems — collects responses from families who have been through hospice care with a given provider. You can compare hospices on communication, timeliness, respect for patients, and overall family experience.
Pathways holds a four-star CMS rating. That rating reflects what families who have walked this road with us have reported. We’re proud of it, and we think it matters — because it comes from families, not from marketing departments.
What to Listen For
When you call a hospice, notice how the conversation feels. Do they listen before they explain? Do they answer your questions directly? Do they acknowledge the weight of what your family is carrying?
The nurses, social workers, chaplains, and aides who step through your door will be present for some of the most intimate moments of your family’s life. How a hospice shows up in the first conversation often tells you how they will show up in all the ones that follow.
At Pathways, we welcome these conversations. We encourage the hard questions. We have been answering them in Northern Colorado for more than four decades, and we believe that families who choose thoughtfully — whatever they choose — are better served.
You Deserve to Choose Well
This is one of the most human decisions you will ever make. It deserves your attention, your questions, and your instincts. It deserves more than a quick search and a phone call.
Northern Colorado residents don’t sit on the sidelines of their lives. They engage. They ask difficult questions. They make informed choices about their health, their finances, their families, and their futures. End-of-life care deserves that same energy. Choosing hospice thoughtfully — on your own terms, before urgency narrows your options — is one of the most active things you can do. It is not stepping back from life. It is participating in it fully, all the way to the end.
If you are in the process of choosing, we would be honored to be part of that conversation.
Learn more about Pathways Hospice and Palliative Care at pathways-care.org, or call us to speak with someone directly at 970-663-3500.
The right care, held by the right people, is worth finding. And you have every right to find it.
Pathways Hospice and Palliative Care has served patients and families in Larimer and Weld Counties since 1978. As a nonprofit hospice, our sole focus is the people we serve.
Welcome to Modern Retirement Planning
Joshua Lewis, Financial Analyst
If you’ve bought groceries lately, opened an insurance bill, or checked your 401(k), you’ve probably noticed the same thing: everything feels more expensive, and nothing feels particularly stable.
Welcome to modern retirement planning.
The cost of living in Northern Colorado continues to rise, and for retirees—or those getting close—it can feel like the financial finish line keeps moving farther away. Meanwhile, the market continues doing what it has always done: fluctuating, usually right when people start paying attention to it.
Here’s the good news: market volatility itself isn’t the problem. Lack of preparation is.
Many people spend decades focused on building wealth but very little time planning how to turn that wealth into reliable income. At some point, retirement planning stops being about growth alone and becomes about protecting lifestyle, managing taxes, and creating predictable income regardless of what the market is doing that week.
And no, this doesn’t mean living on canned soup and avoiding vacations.
The goal isn’t to stop enjoying life—it’s to spend intentionally. The people who tend to weather inflation best aren’t always the wealthiest. They’re the ones with a strategy designed for changing conditions.
A 401(k) statement may tell you your balance. It does not tell you whether your plan is sustainable.
That’s the real question worth asking.
Because while none of us can control inflation, interest rates, or the stock market, we can control whether we have a thoughtful plan in place to navigate them. Preferably before the next trip to Costco.
Giving Back
Linda L. Osmundson
Toy, Game and Puzzle Library
SARA AND DUG STEEN have been lifelong board game and puzzle enthusiasts. Many years ago, when Dug’s father presented his young family with a computer (devoid of games), he told Dug, “If you want to play computer games, you can write them yourself.” Dug did. He eventually founded Soft Crow Solutions, LLC.
Sara, a former professor of psychology, retired 12 years ago. She volunteered for her church, CASA, a family housing network and served on a community corrections board. So, forming a nonprofit, volunteer-run business was natural for them.
During a temporary six-month sabbatical in New Zealand in 2009, the Steens found a toy library for their daughters, then 2, 8 and 14. “It was a godsend,” says Sara. Upon their return home to Fort Collins, she dreamed for 15 years of creating her own similar library.
Finally, in 2022, the Steens discussed with family, friends and neighbors their idea, pulled together a volunteer board and searched for a location. Foothills Mall offered a free space and their idea took off.
“Being able to move 2/3 of the games out of our basement was a huge bonus,” says Sara. In addition, Sara and Dug donated some of their possessions to set up the space. Friends saw their needs and generously contributed. Once they received nonprofit status, enough supplies and a grant, they worked from June—October to ready the space for opening. In early November 2023, they launched the Toy, Game and Puzzle Library.
Then Dug built various software
systems to track donations, rentable items and volunteers. Their “Pay It Forward” program allows donations to other community groups of no longer needed, repaired or multiple items. Events encourage children to refurbish, spray paint or use their imaginations to create new games from worn out/ damaged toys, games and puzzles.
Library membership is free. Website registration can begin at www. tgplibrary.org but must be completed in person. Open hours are limited (Sat. 10am-4pm, Mon. 3-6pm, Tue. 5-8pm, Thu. 5-8pm). A total of 150 available volunteers, in groups of 24, work every other week shifts in three-hour shifts. Others put in even more hours running various parts of the operation behind the scenes. Volunteers consist of families, teens and individuals.
Tables provide a space for visitors of all ages to play games or work puzzles.
Nearby, children play on rugs. Children are excited at the thought of taking items home; parents are pleased to find a place to donate no longer used toys, games and puzzles. Parents must accompany children at all times. The library provides a happy “mix of people and backgrounds to connect through the joy of play.”
With the Foothills space in full operation, Sara says, “We hope to expand to other localities such as Greeley, Windsor or Loveland.”
Dug adds, “We have an inventory of approximately 7000 items to share with anyone willing to take on the responsibility of another location. We’re ready to help.”
Sara and Dug Steen fulfilled their dream of a toy, game and puzzle library. Register for membership or events and enjoy “high-quality toys, games, and puzzles” onsite or at home.
What if your next vacation didn’t just show you a destination—but truly immersed you in it? That’s the spirit behind Let’s Explore!, a cycling and walking tour company built on one simple idea: travel is better when you experience it actively, curiously, and in great company.
Learn more at exploreandride.com.
“The dining experiences were exquisitely planned-each showcased the cuisine, wines and the French locales. The bike trip can be advertised as a foodie tour! So MANY lovely touches!”
—Ann Cope, Loveland, CO
“This was the most relaxing adventure I’ve ever had—every detail was flawlessly handled by the team, so all I had to do was pedal, soak in the beauty of France, and enjoy the incredible service from start to finish.”
—Barbara Bue-Fort Collins, CO
“This trip was beyond fabulous! It is very hard to choose the most enjoyable aspects because I really just enjoyed every moment! Thank you Randy and Lee for a most wonderful experience!”
—Chanda Ross, Athens, GA
Dordogne Cycling Tour
September 10-16, 2026
Mention “Dordogne” to a French native, and you’ll likely hear “La bonne cuisine;” a tribute to its famed foie gras, truffles, and Bordeaux wines set amid some of France’s most stunning scenery. Join us for a week-long bike ride on quiet roads from medieval Sarlat to prehistoric Les Eyzies, passing castles, caves, and storybook villages. Pedal along the Dordogne River, canoe beneath cliffside towns like La Roque-Gageac, Beynac, and Domme, and experience France at its very best from the seat of a bike!
Provence
Cycling Tour
September 22-28, 2026
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Provence, beginning in vibrant Aix-enProvence and cycling through the enchanting hilltop villages of the Vaucluse, filled with stunning vistas, lavender fields, and cobblestone streets. Discover historic Arles, explore its bustling market, and enjoy a gourmet picnic at the iconic Pont du Gard, paired with exceptional local wine. Along the way, savor the flavors, landscapes, and unforgettable charm of Provence while creating lasting memories.
Provence and the South of France: A Walking tour
October 1-7, 2026
Our curated walking tour of Provence explores three captivating towns—ancient Arles, papal Avignon, and charming L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue—where sunlit cobblestone streets hum with history, art, and everyday Provençal life. Savor olive oils in Les Baux, taste renowned wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and enjoy a picnic of fresh baguette and cheeses by the Pont du Gard. From Roman ruins and medieval ramparts to plane tree–shaded canals, let Provence reveal its beauty on foot.
