Lamar Hosts 36th Annual Senior Speak Out

Candidates for Election, Martinez, Gardner and Crowder at Senior Speak Out

Seniors from around the region gathered information and voiced their concerns on several levels during their two day, 36^th annual Senior Speak Out gathering, “Rockin’ & Rollin’: Seniors on the Go”. 

The annual event was held at the Rodeway Cow Palace Inn, Thursday and Friday, October 4 and 5 and got underway Thursday afternoon following registration. 

The afternoon was scheduled with speakers and an hour long tour of the Big Timbers Museum from 5pm to 6pm.  Attendees heard from Emily Montoya-Nieschburg, Dietician from LiveWell and Winnona Joles of SilverSneakers.  Randa Davis-Tice, a local attorney, discussed a growing problem with ID theft and Elder Abuse Prevention, Living Wills and related subjects.  “Wheelin’ & Dealin’ was hosted by Joscelyn Gay who spoke about long term services and financial programs for the elderly.  She was also the Thursday evening keynote speaker during the evening banquet and entertainment.

 Following a breakfast buffet on Friday morning, attendees enjoyed some social time, plus information regarding Bent’s Old Fort from Rick Wallner of National Parks & Trails and Rails.  The morning was highlighted on a political note with a forum for local and regional candidates for Prowers County Commissioner and Cory Gardner U.S. Congressman from the state’s 4^th Congressional District.  Candidates for the 35^th Senate District, Larry Crowder and Crestina Martinez made their presentations to the audience and entertained questions from their campaign.  Approximately three dozen agencies, persons and businesses contributed to the 36^th Senior Speak Out this year.

By Russ Baldwin