Generations January 2020

that men and women age 65 or older who are generally fit and have no limiting health

need at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, each week. In addition, such people should perform strengthtraining activities that work all major muscle groups at least two days per week.

While many fit older men and women with no preexisting health conditions are capable of these activities, those able to push themselves a little further can opt for 75 minutes per week

coupled with strength training may also provide adequate

physical activity for aging men and women. Before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women should consult with their physicians to discuss any limitations they may have and how to manage those risks while still being physically active.

PET ADOPTION FOR SENIORS: A win-win for human and critter alike

By Andrea Busche

time at Animal Allies due to a painful frostbite injury. She is much happier and healthier without it, however, and suffers no ill effects from the amputation. Ross appreciates this quirk, and believes it makes the cat more unique. After spending a few minutes together in one of the “getting acquainted” rooms, it was clear that this was a match. The cat immediately jumped on Ross’ lap and began to purr.

“OK, you can take me home now,” she seemed to say. After filling out some paperwork, it was official. And, once the Certified Veterinary Inspection (CVI) was complete, Ross was able to bring her new pet home just two days later.

MRS. WAGS

that helped 42 dogs find forever homes during its tenure in rural Duluth. Keller explained the many benefits of fostering.

“Fostering a pet involves giving the animal a temporary home and keeps them out of the shelter until it finds its final home,” Keller said. “Fostering is such an important piece to rescue.

“Animals living in a shelter atmosphere don’t always portray their true personalities and traits,” she added. “Once they are living in a home, we learn so much about them and give them a chance to really be who they are.”

FROM TINY BABIES TO SPECIAL NEEDS

Some animals are put into foster care because they are too young to be weaned, and must

be bottle-fed. Others go into foster care due to other special needs, needing medical care, or being temperamental in a shelter environment. The length of time as a “foster parent” can range from a few days to a few years, so make sure the organization you are working with knows your limits and expectations up front.

According to Keller, the foster pet parent has several responsibilities.

“Training, training, training,” she stressed. “They need us to help them learn trust, rules, love, and empathy.”

Many people make the comment that they could never foster because they wouldn’t be able to give them back.

“I call this a ‘foster failure,’” Keller said. “And, I have fallen victim to this myself… five times! However, I will say that

nothing is more rewarding than finding that new ‘fur-ever’ home for this lovable dog you so selfishly want to keep, and seeing their family Christmas photo, or pictures of the dog napping with the kids, or how spoiled they are with way too many toys! That is so rewarding and inspires you to keep fostering and saving lives.”

Keller shared that fostering is typically a great fit for senior citizens.

“Reasons for a senior to foster include companionship and a mission to rehabilitate an animal who potentially had no hope prior to coming into their home,” she said. “Someone who is retired is the best prospect for a foster home, because they spend time with the animal, and they already are seeking the companionship.”

things are just meant to be together.

Peanut butter and jelly. Bert and Ernie. And senior citizens and their pets.

According to the website petsfortheelderly.org, studies have shown that pets can lower stress and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, decreased feelings of loneliness, and increased opportunities for socialization. These issues are of particular importance in the lives of seniors.

Whether you’re a “dog person” or a “cat person,” rescuing an animal from a shelter is a great way to go. Local options range from committing to a pet for life through adoption or dipping a toe into the rescue world with fostering. Both are incredible ways to help an animal in need, and will no doubt change your life forever.

ADOPTING

After tossing the idea around for a few years, Superior resident Lenore Ross recently made the decision to adopt a cat. At age 65, she is retired, and has plenty of time to give to an animal.

Prior to visiting a shelter, Ross spent some time looking at the adoptable pets found on the Animal Allies and Douglas County Humane Society websites. When she saw a gray tabby with the shelter name “Mariah Carey,” Ross knew she wanted to meet her.

“I wanted a younger, female short-haired cat, and she fit the bill,” Ross said.

Ross and her daughter (yours truly) made the trip to Animal Allies in July 2019. Here, she learned that Ms. Mariah Carey was about two years old and was brought to Animal Allies as a stray the month before.

The cat had a funny-looking bobbed tail, which we learned had been amputated during her

Ross and her new cat, who now has the name Mrs. Wags due to the way she enthusiastically wags her little tail stump, have been together for a few months now, and so far, so good.

“She’s a funny girl,” Ross said. “She likes to take a running jump into my lap. She loves catnip and her new scratching post with a seat on top. She’s inquisitive, as cats are, and enjoys hunting for bugs in my basement.

“And, she loves attention,” continued Ross. “Being retired, I can give her plenty. She’s a nice kitty, and I made the right choice adopting from Animal Allies. I really appreciate their program where they give seniors a $50 discount to adopt a pet, too.”

FOSTERING

If you aren’t ready to make a lifetime commitment to a pet, fostering an animal can be a great choice. Megan Keller is the founder of Nemo Paws, a nonprofit dog rescue organization

Pictured Above: Lenore Ross of Superior spends some time with a cat named Mariah Carey in the Animal Allies’ “getting acquainted room.” The cat was adopted by Ross and renamed Mrs. Wags. Contributed Photo

ADOPTING A DOG OR CAT l ater

in life

Companion animals bring great joy to their owners. The unconditional love cats and dogs provide appeals to people of all ages. While many people associate pets with kids who can’t wait to welcome the first cat or dog into their homes, pets can benefit aging men and women as well.

It’s not uncommon for seniors to feel lonely or depressed when they retire, their children move away or they lose a spouse or close friend or friends. The American Humane Society states that studies show pets help seniors overcome loneliness and depression by providing affection, company and entertainment. Pets also provide much-needed mental

stimulation, and many pet owners find their pets help them become more physically active as well. Seniors who adopt pets may also feel a sense of purpose when helping animals who may not have anywhere to live.

LATER IN LIFE: Page 5

ADOPTION

From Page 3

One extra benefit of fostering, as opposed to adopting, is that in many cases, the rescue organization will pay for the animal’s food and veterinary care while they are in your home.

COMPANIONSHIP, JOY, AND HEALTH BENEFITS

Michelle Sternberg, development officer with Animal Allies, highlighted the many emotional and health benefits to adopting or fostering an animal; particularly for our elder population.

“Pets bring endless enjoyment and benefits to our lives,” Sternberg said. “From daily companionship, joy, and laughter to providing medical benefits like stress reduction, being a pet owner is a special privilege we believe everyone should enjoy.

“We are proud to partner with ‘Pets for the Elderly,’ a grant provider who offers funding to subsidize lowered adoption fees for seniors age 60-plus,” she added. “This special program provides funding to reduce

Mrs. Wags has an amputated tail, due to frostbite. Contributed Photo

adoption fees by off-setting the costs involved with readying a pet for adoption, like spay and neuter, vaccinations, and daily care. Sometimes the adoption fee is covered completely thanks to this special partnership.

“Animal Allies’ mission is to ensure a loving home for every pet,” Sternberg continued. “We strongly believe that everyone should be able to own a pet and benefit from their love and

companionship. Adopting a pet does so much more than simply giving an animal a home – it grows our capacity for love and the enjoyment of life, and that’s a very special thing.”

Are you ready to bring a pet into your home? Local options for animal adoption and fostering include Animal Allies, Douglas County Humane Society, and Ruff Start Rescue.

LATER IN LIFE

From Page 4

This is particularly true of older companion animals, which many young families are understandably hesitant to adopt. Mature pets might be an ideal fit for seniors.

When seniors are looking to adopt a pet, there are various reasons why older pets or particular animals might be the perfect fit for them.

• Adult pets may already be house trained, saving seniors the trouble and effort of training them.

• Seniors may find cats fit their lifestyles more than dogs, as cats are less active and do not need to

be walked or played with as much as dogs. Cats also are small and easily maneuverable, meaning even seniors who have arthritis or other physical limitations can easily care for cats. Many cats are also content to spend long periods of time sleeping on their owners’ laps.

• Small dogs that can be active within the house might be a good idea as well, especially for seniors with mobility issues. They’re also

easily transported to and from vet appointments.

It’s important that seniors carefully weigh the benefits of adopting a pet against any limitations they may have. Having a backup plan for care is advantageous as well. Seniors should not adopt a pet if they anticipate frequent travel or medical care that requires they be away from home for long periods of time.

BENEFITS TO ESTABLISHING advanced healthcare directives

Healthy adults may give little thought to injuries or illnesses. When the going is good, it is easy to forget about the less pleasant side effects of aging. However, putting off these conversations and decisions can lead to unnecessary obstacles in the years to come.

Advanced healthcare directives can be invaluable resources for family members and friends who will be responsible for managing a person’s plans should they become unable to make their own decisions. Various organizations, including AARP, offer resources on advanced planning and the options available to adults looking to plan their estates.

The National Healthcare Decisions Day movement, a group dedicated to providing clear, concise and consistent information on healthcare decision-making, defines advanced directives as establishing:

• a “healthcare power of attorney” (or “proxy” or “agent” or “surrogate”), or the person you select to be your voice for your healthcare decisions if you cannot speak for yourself.

• a “living will” to document which medical treatments you would or would not want at the end of life.

While these are decisions that people often put off, it’s important to make them as early as possible. Not only will they dictate your wishes, they’ll take the pressure off of loved ones who would otherwise be tasked with making difficult decisions on their own.

HEALTHCARE PROXY

Appointing a healthcare proxy ensures that there will be someone there who has the legal authority to make healthcare decisions for you if you are no longer able to speak for yourself. This may be a spouse, child, relative, or close friend. The Mayo Clinic suggests choosing a person who can be trusted to make decisions that adhere to your wishes and values and to be your advocate if there are disagreements about your care.

Be sure to have a candid discussion with your healthcare proxy in which you go over the types of medical care you wish to receive and any ways you would or would not like your life prolonged. It helps to keep the proxy up-to-date on any medical conditions you may have so that he or she can make the most informed decisions on your behalf. Having a healthcare proxy does not mean you are giving up your right to make medical decisions.

It’s a fail-safe in the event you are unconscious or cannot direct medical care.

LIVING WILL

An advanced healthcare directive enables you to create specific written instructions for future health care, known as a living will. The living will should include wishes regarding life-sustaining medical treatments and resuscitation if you are no longer able to speak on your own behalf. It also can spell out whether you want to remain in a hospital or

receive palliative care at home for a terminal illness. A living will can be changed if/when your wishes or circumstances change.

LEGAL AND MEDICAL ADVICE

Although legal advice is not required for an advanced directive, it can be helpful to iron out the legalities of your directives.

Speak with your doctor about your desires and needs. A physician can help you form a coherent directive that is in line with your wishes.

WHAT IS DIABETIC EYE DISEASE?

The term diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, that can affect people with diabetes. The National Eye Institute notes that all forms of diabetic eye disease can potentially cause severe vision loss and even blindness. However, the NEI says that vision loss can be prevented or delayed if diabetes patients take their medications as prescribed, stay physically active and eat a healthy diet. Seeking timely treatment by consulting a physician the moment they notice changes in their vision, however insignificant those changes may seem, is another way for diabetes patients to protect themselves against vision loss. It’s especially important that diabetes patients heed that advice, as the NEI notes that vision lost to diabetic eye disease is sometimes irreversible. It’s also important that diabetes patients know that help could be on the way, as the NEI is conducting and supporting research to find better ways to detect, treat and prevent vision loss in people with diabetes.

Yvonne Michaud Novak Attorney

An advanced directive is not reserved for the elderly. Any consenting adult age 18 or older can benefit from a living will and other documentation.

MANAGING THE COSTS OF ASSISTED LIVING

Consider the different options available to help pay for assisted living services

Costs conducted by MetLife, the national average for assisted living base rates was $3,550 per month in 2012. In the 2018 Cost of Care Survey conducted by Genworth Financial, the assisted living, nationalmedian monthly rate was now $4,000 – and it’s only expected to

year bill.

LIFE INSURANCE

A financial advisor may advocate to pay for assisted living with a life insurance policy. Some companies enable you to cash out for “accelerated” or “living” benefits, which usually is a buy-back of the policy for 50 to 75 percent of the face value. Other third parties may purchase the policy for a settlement of a lump sum, again roughly 50-75 percent of the policy’s face value, according to Caring.com, an online source for support and information about the needs of aging people.

LOCATION

As individuals age, various circumstances have to be reassessed. A current living situation may not be meeting the needs of a senior who may be having difficulty caring properly for himself or herself. Families often consider senior residences to provide welcoming and safe environments for their loved ones during the golden years of their lives. These facilities may range from independent living homes with minimal care offered to nursing homes that provide more intensive care when needed. Somewhere in the middle lies assisted living homes, which blend the independence of personal residences with other amenities, such as the housekeeping, medication reminders or meal services. Assisted living can be a viable option when a person can no longer live alone, but such facilities come with a price. According to a Market Survey of Long-Term Care

Affording these homes and apartments can be challenging for those with fixed incomes, but there are some strategies that can help.

The payment method that serves you best will depend on your unique circumstances, but there are options available.

LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE

Long-term care insurance is specialized insurance that is paid into and may cover the cost of assisted living facilities and other medical care, depending on the policy. The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance says that only roughly 3 percent of Americans have this type of insurance, but it is something to consider during working years.

PERSONAL SAVINGS

Some people have the means to pay for assisted living with their own savings and retirement nest eggs. However, it’s easy for savings to become depleted when facing a $40,000-plus per

Costs of assisted living facilities vary depending on location. It’s possible to get a lower monthly rate simply by choosing a facility in a different state.

NEGOTIATION

Not all prices are set in stone. Speak with a manager at the facility and see if there is any price flexibility or move-in incentives. You also may be able to get a lower rate by negotiating certain a-la-carte costs against all-inclusive pricing. Perhaps you do not need laundry or shopping services, and family members can fill in the gaps, reducing your bill.

VETERAN’S BENEFITS

Many veterans are eligible for care benefits that can offset the cost of assisted living care.

ROOMS

Opting for a smaller room or sharing a space can keep costs down as well. See if shared rooms are a possibility.

Assisted living is a necessity for thousands of people. Explore the ways to finance this purchase.

SENIORS SAFE AT HOME with easy renovations, modifications

As adults approach their golden years, the homes they once thought of as sanctuaries can become unsafe. Families wrestle with the decision to keep parents and grandparents in their homes or move them into assisted living facilities or other senior residences.

Modifying seniors’ homes to make them safer is another option. The National Institute on

Aging (NIA) says families may be able to have a senior stay at home by helping older relatives remain independent but safe. The following are a few ways to do just that.

REMOVE FALL HAZARDS

The NIA reports that six out of 10 falls happen at home, where people spend the most time and fail to think about their safety. Seniors who want to be independent may overestimate their physical abilities. Because falls can be so dangerous, leading to cuts, abrasions, broken bones, and more, seniors and their families must take steps to prevent falls in homes:

• Improve lighting, especially at night when sight may become diminished.

• Install hand rails and grab bars where possible.

• Pick up clutter and remove tripping hazards, such as slippery rugs or electric cords.

• Install an electric stair climbing seat to make traversing stairs less risky.

IMPROVE VISIBILITY AND ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE

Vision loss may accompany aging, but technology can help mitigate such losses. Use bigbutton phones, remote controls and even keyboards so seniors can keep in touch. Voiceactivated thermostats or smart home technology also can make it easier for seniors to voice their needs.

MODIFY FIXTURES AND OTHER FEATURES

Dexterity may wane with age, and arthritis can make grasping or turning doorknobs and faucets more challenging. Take inventory of areas of the home that present the biggest obstacles to seniors. Replace knobs in the shower or on faucets with lever handles, which are easier to maneuver. Install new cabinets and doors that freely glide open and self-close. Replace toggle light switches with easier paddle-type

switches that can be pushed with a hand or even arm. Motion-sensor lights also can be handy. Pushbutton oven controls may make cooking easier.

PREPARE FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

Invest in medical alert systems, such as necklaces or bracelets, that can be used to contact police or emergency medical personnel directly. Make phones available in commonly used rooms in the home, such as bedrooms, the living room, bathrooms, and the kitchen.

INSTALL RAMPS AND NONSLIP FLOORING

Ramps can make it easier to reach the front door or cross over elevated doorway thresholds. Nonslip flooring also can prevent falls around the house, offering more traction for feet, walkers or canes.

REPAIR CRACKS IN WALKWAYS AND DRIVEWAYS

Safety should also extend to the outdoors. Be sure to repair cracks or uneven pavement. Replace loose patio blocks or bricks with a more stable design or with concrete or asphalt. While outdoors, trim back bushes and make sure there are no tripping hazards outside as well. A few modifications can make it possible for seniors to live comfortably in their homes for many years.

A few modifications can make it possible for seniors to live comfortably in their homes for many years.

IS YOUR LOVED ONE SUFFERING from anemia?

Symptoms are common among elderly, but can be addressed

Aging is accompanied by a number of physical changes. Some of these changes, such as vision impairment or loss of hearing, are anticipated, while others may arrive unexpectedly.

One condition many adults unexpectedly encounter is anemia. While anemia is common in older adults and its prevalence increases with age, it is not a condition that is widely considered part of the aging process. Anemia is often a symptom of a hidden problem that needs to be addressed promptly.

Anemia is one of the most common blood disorders, affecting more than three million Americans, says the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

The American Society of Hematology notes that anemia is characterized by insufficient levels of red blood cells in the blood. Anemia also occurs when red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen

to the various organs and tissues throughout the body, are not functioning properly.

Very often the signs of anemia are overlooked or go unnoticed until a blood test determines low hemoglobin (Hb) or hematocrit (HCT) concentrations. Some people discover they have anemia as they attempt to donate blood, at which time their red blood cell count is found to be inadequate. When the body lacks oxygen, any number of the following symptoms may be experienced:

• weakness

• dizziness

• extreme fatigue

• shortness of breath

• fast or irregular heartbeat

• pale or yellow skin

• cold hands or feet

Frequently, existing disorders or conditions, such as congestive heart failure, are made worse by anemia. But unless doctors specifically consider anemia as a possible cause of symptoms, its

presence can go undiagnosed.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says the most common causes of anemia among older men and women include chronic diseases and iron deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, gastrointestinal bleeding, and myelodysplastic syndrome are other causes of anemia.

The main way to treat anemia is to discover its source and reverse the outcomes. For instance, a gastrointestinal bleed may need to be repaired. If iron deficiency is the source of the anemia, iron supplements may be prescribed. Many methods to correct anemia involve trial and error and experimentation, especially when the source of the anemia is unknown.

Anemia is a condition that can affect aging adults but does not need to be accepted as a natural consequence of aging. Correct diagnosis and treatment can mitigate symptoms.

Anemia is not usually discovered unless a blood test is ordered. Its symptoms can mimic other conditions.

Service Directory

ASSISTED LIVING

Barross Manor

Our care levels range from independent to end-oflife care. Come in for a tour and to learn more about becoming a part of our family today!

414 1st Ave., Two Harbors • 218-834-6174

Email: barrossmanor@hotmail.com

CAR CARE

Auto Ace Express Lube

We are a small-scale, local business that can provide you with personal service. Let us take care of your investment so you never have to doubt the reliability of your vehicle.

1506 Kenwood Ave., Duluth • 218-728-1453

www.autoaceexpresslube.com

CREDIT UNION

Northern Communities

Credit Union

Your full service credit union who has been here for YOU since 1928.

3311 W. Arrowhead Road, Duluth 800 S. 16th Ave., Virginia • 218-279-3200

www.nccyou.com

FOOTWEAR SALES & SERVICES

Burger’s Shoes

Serving the Northland with sales and repair service for nearly 60 years! It’s not just about the shoes… it’s about connecting with the people in our community. 1609 Carlton Ave., Cloquet • 218-879-3015

www.BurgerShoes.com

FOR THE HOME

Wood Magic Kitchen Cabinets

Specializing in custom cabinetry (new and refaced), heritage curtain and table lace-Park design, Fenton Art Glass, gifts, shoes, wall art, sculptures and more. Shop nine rooms of delightful gifts, home decor items and custom furniture pieces.

5105 Miller Trunk Highway, Hermantown

218-729-7175 • www.woodmagic.org

GIFT IDEAS

ALTERATION & TAILORING SERVICES

Rebecca’s Remembrance Bears

Memory Bears are hand-crafted locally from favorite fabrics/clothing as a special way to remember a loved one or celebrate milestones and celebrations. Also offering ALTERATION & TAILORING SERVICES, as well as gift items such as repurposed sweater-mittens, adult bibs and walker totes. Contact Rebecca to place orders or learn more. 218-721-3006 • Email: rebeccasbears@gmail.com

FB: Rebeccas Remembrance Bears

LEGAL SERVICES

Law Office of Yvonne Michaud Novak

Licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, Yvonne understands the significance of your particular legal problem and takes pride in providing practical solutions tailored to your needs. Asset Protection & Business Planning • Bankruptcy • Estate Planning • Family

Owned Businesses • Incapacity Planning • LGBT Estate Planning • Pet Planning • Trust Administration & Probate 202 W. Superior St., Ste 303, Duluth • 218-720-2888 www.ymnlaw.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Essentia Health Medical Equipment & Supplies

Proudly serving northern Minnesota and Wisconsin with quality, durable medical equipment, medical supplies, orthotics and prosthetics for over 25 years.

Adolphson Real Estate

We have highly efficient, licensed sales associates with many years of real estate experience, all qualified to assist you in the many varieties of real estate transactions.

4815 W. Arrowhead Road, Duluth • 218-722-8736

1307 Hwy 33 South, Ste. B, Cloquet • 218-878-0570

www.adolphsonrealestate.com

Email: are@cpinternet.com

SENIOR RESOURCES

Aging and Disability

Resource Center (ADRC)

Providing information to the general public about services, resources, and programs for adults with disabilities, children with disabilities transitioning to adulthood, and the elderly in need of assistance.

1316 N. 14th St., Superior • 715-395-7532

www.douglascountywi.org/ADRC

Email: adrc@douglascountywi.org

Senior Connections

As the County Aging Unit, Senior Connections provides a variety of services and programs to individuals aged 60 and over, as well as specialized transportation to individuals aged 55 and over and persons with disabilities.

1805 N. 16th St., Superior • 715-394-3611

www.seniorconnectionswi.org

• www.EssentiaMedicalSupply.org

4418 Haines Road, Duluth • 1001 N 9th Ave., Virginia 1-800-777-8390

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

JS Realty, LLC

Contact the J.S. Realty team -- Jackie, Jamie, Julie and Braxton -- for help buying or selling your home!

5112 Midway Road, Duluth • 218-729-9784

www.js-realty.com

• Email: info@js-realty.com

Edmunds Co., LLC

Thinking of retiring or downsizing? Buying or selling, call Ann Kerr for all your real estate needs. Office: 218-724-7900 • Cell: 218-343-7447

www.edmundsllp.com

• Email: annkerr62@msn.com

TRANSPORTATION

Arrowhead Transit

Providing public transportation in Minnesota’s Arrowhead: Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Hermantown, Koochiching, Lake, St. Louis and Pine Counties.

702 3rd Ave., Virginia • 218-735-6815

www.ArrowheadTransit.com

WEIGHT LOSS

Ideally You Health & Weight Loss Center

Weight Loss Center

925 E Superior St., Suite 114, Duluth • 218-221-6604

www.ideallyyouweightloss.com

Chocolate Dutch Baby

Recipe courtesy of Claire Saffitz, www.bonappetit.com

This warm chocolate dessert is way simpler and faster than a soufflé (no beaten egg whites) or a molten chocolate cake (no double boiler), but every bit as delicious. Serves 2.

Ingredients

3 large eggs

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more

1/2 cup whole milk

1 ounce bittersweet, semisweet, or milk chocolate

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Coffee ice cream (for serving)

Directions

1. Arrange a rack in center of oven; preheat to 425°. Place a dry medium skillet on rack to preheat.

2. Whisk 3 eggs, ⅓ cup flour, ¼ cup sugar, 3 Tbsp. cocoa powder, and ¾ tsp. salt in a medium bowl until smooth.

3. Whisking constantly, slowly stream ½ cup milk into egg mixture. Cover with plastic and let batter rest 15 minutes.

Decadent, Easy White Chocolate–Raspberry Tart

Recipe courtesy of Ivy Odom, www.cookinglight.com

This is a tastier version of those strawberry shortcake bars from the ice cream truck. The crust is salty, buttery, and slightly tart—a perfect crunchy match to the creamy and sweet white chocolate filling. This supersimple recipe also has minimal ingredients, which is a nice contrast to labor-intensive Thanksgiving pies. Be sure to fold the cream into the chocolate before folding in the yogurt, otherwise the mixture may seize.

Ingredients

1 (2-oz.) pkg. freeze-dried raspberries

4 ounces saltine crackers (1 sleeve)

1 large egg white

2-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/3 cup whipping cream

5-1/2 ounces white chocolate baking bar, chopped

1/2 cup vanilla fat-free yogurt (not Greek-style)

1/2 teaspoon powdered sugar

1-1/2 cups fresh raspberries (5 oz.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place freeze-dried raspberries in a food processor, and process until very finely ground, about 30 seconds. Sift raspberry powder into a small bowl; discard seeds.

2. Pulse saltines in food processor until very finely crumbled, about 10 times; transfer to a medium bowl, and set aside.

3. Place 1 teaspoon raspberry powder and egg white

4. Meanwhile, chop 1 oz. chocolate and transfer to a small saucepan. Add ¼ cup cream and cook over low heat, whisking often, until chocolate is melted and mixture is completely smooth; season with a pinch of salt. Keep warm over low heat.

5. Remove skillet from oven and add 1 Tbsp. butter; swirl skillet to melt, making sure to coat entire bottom and sides of skillet.

6. Give batter a quick whisk to reincorporate, then pour into skillet. Quickly transfer to oven, taking care because the handle is hot.

7. Cook until pancake is dramatically puffed and edges are curling inward toward center but center is still moist, 10-12 minutes. Remove skillet from oven (watch for that handle again) and let rest about 2 minutes. The pancake will immediately begin to fall, but that’s normal. Meanwhile, pull ice cream out of freezer to let it soften slightly.

8. Top with 2 scoops ice cream and drizzle with warm chocolate sauce; serve warm.

Adventure Word Search

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards.

ADVENTURE ALPINE BOUNDARIES BUSHWALKING DESTINATION DETERMINED DOWNHILL ENJOYMENT FORTUNE HAZARD

OUTDOORS RACING RISK SCALE SPEED SUMMIT TEST THRILL TRAVELING TREK

TRIAL VOYAGES WANDERLUST WILDERNESS

Sudoku Puzzle

in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 1 minute; add to crumbled saltines. Add 2 tablespoons raspberry powder and melted butter to saltine mixture and stir with a spatula to combine. Press mixture in bottom and up sides of a 13 1/2- x 4 1/4-inch fluted rectangular tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake crust at 350°F until crisp and slightly golden, about 10 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack, about 40 minutes.

4. Place whipping cream in a medium bowl. Beat with electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Place chopped chocolate in a medium microwavable bowl. Microwave at high until melted, about 1 minute and 30 seconds, stirring at 30-second intervals. Let chocolate cool 15 minutes, stirring often. Gently fold whipped cream into melted chocolate. Gently fold yogurt into chocolate mixture; pour into cooled crust. Chill 1 hour.

5. Stir together 1 teaspoon raspberry powder and powdered sugar and in a small bowl. Using a fine wire-mesh strainer, dust powdered sugar mixture over tart. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of tart. Cut into 12 slices.

SUDOKU ANSWERS

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Duluth’s firefighters are well known for extinguishing fires in our community; but on Wednesday, Jan. 13, Duluth News Tribune advertising executive John Badger witnessed two Duluth Fire Department firefighters stop their firetruck and help an elderly woman walk to her car on a very icy parking lot. Moments like this remind us to be kind, and helpful to those who need it. Thank you, Duluth firefighters. We appreciate all that you do for our community.