Chicz - A magazine for FUN Women - July/August 2019

a Magazine for FUN women!

July/August 2019

TM

Live your life

OUTDOORS Savor summer with

WATERMELON

Whip up a wine

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Savor your summer!

Inside this issue July/August 2019

Summer finds us smack dab in the middle of your lawn chair, enjoying the warm breeze and bright sunshine, so grab your Chicz magaThe Jeff Beach Diet 4 zine and savor your summer.

A Guyz Perspective 13 We have some fun recipes for your once again as Jeff Beach brings you corn salad with avocado in his Jeff Beach Diet, and Al Edenloff Real Chicz of gives you permission to break the ‘rules’ of wine and mix up a wine Douglas County 24 spritzer to enjoy on your deck. We also take a peek at some great ways to use that summer favorite – watermelon!

Puzzles and horoscopes 28 In Celeste Edenloff’s Real Chicz of Douglas County, she brings you the story of Heidi Hasapopoulos, Food and drink a woman who’s exploring life on foot, and Eric Avocado: Heart-healty, nutritious and delicious • 4 Morken reminds us to give our children time for Savor summer with watermelon • 6 unstructured play in his A Guyz Perspective.

Cut watermelon into There are articles on aiding your children as easy-to-eat pieces • 7 they head back to school and Lowell Anderson Tea time • 8 gives us insight into using your flash when you take photos.

Andy’ choice beverages • 9 Interior designer Betty Ravnik adds her suggestions on how Celebrating french fries • 10 to live your life outdoors and Ross Evavold informs you on a WHIP UP A summertime favorite activity – pickleball.

SPRITZER Technology There are informational articles on recycled glass mulch Photo tips: Understanding flash • 22 and climbing plants for your garden, then get advice from Andrew Holte of Edward Jones on working toward your Family financial freedom.

Mommy and me crafts • 18 And, last, but certainly not least, check out the Between the Wines Book Club’s review of Daisy Jones How to help a child who struggles to make friends • 19 and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

Extracurricular activities: benefits and drawbacks • 20 We love summer and many of the articles in this Safety tips for kids commuting to school • 20 issue of Chicz will give you some wonderful ideas on how to enjoy your summer!

Home

5

Lori Mork, Chicz editor

“Summertime. It was a song. It was a season. I wondered if that season would ever live inside of me.”

BENJAMIN ALIRE SÁENZ, LAST NIGHT I SANG TO THE MONSTER

LIVE YOUR LIFE OUTDOORS

To advertise in Chicz

call 320.763.3133 Jody Hanson, Publisher Lori Mork, Editor/Designer Chicz is a publication of Echo Press, 225 7th Ave. East Alexandria, MN 56308 ©2012 Echo Press

14

Live your life outdoors • 14 Recycled glass mulch • 15 3 climbing plants for your garden • 16 Plants that thrive in acidic soil • 16 Benefits of growing native plants • 16 A guide to ergonomic tools • 17

Ourdoors

IS YOUR CHILD OVERSCHEDULED

Pickleball moves outside for summer • 21 Must haves for your summer road trip • 23 Top three Fourth of July spots for your bucke list • 27

20

Finance

Work toward your own financial independence • 11

Entertainment

Between the Wines book club review • 12 August 9 in National Book Lovers Day • 12

Your writers

Chicz contributing writers • 30

Send your feedback to:

chiczmag@gmail.com July/August 2019 Chicz 3

Avocado optional, but don’t skip it!

By Jeff Beach

W

hen I started making a variation of this corn and black bean salad recipe, the directions listed the avocado as optional.

And the first few times several I made the salad, I skipped it, mostly out of laziness as well as not really knowing much about avocados or appreciating how flavorful they are.

Now I still list the avocado as optional here, but I don’t recommend skipping it.

The salad is fine without it, a simple and filling but flavorful dish that can be eaten as a dip with chips or with a fork or spoon. But the salad is so much better when served with one of those green hand grenades of flavor.

When buying an avocado, it should be soft enough to give a little when you squeeze it, but not to the point of being mushy.

Now this recipe serves a lot, at least eight. If you expect to have leftovers, keep in mind that the avocado will not keep

that well.

So add the avocado just before serving and only to the portion of the salad you are confident will be eaten. Or serve the avocado on the side and let folks scoop in as much as they desire.

CORN-BEAN SALAD DRESSING: ½ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup red wine vinegar ½ tsp. Sal Dash or two of hot pepper sauce (or to taste) SALAD: 2 16 oz. cans black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cans whole kernel corn

The 1 pepper (green, yellow or red) chopped 1 red onion, chopped (about 1 cup) 1 large ripe tomato, chopped 1 or 2 avocados, chopped (optional) 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (or to taste) DIRECTIONS: Mix together dressing then add beans, corn, onion, pepper and cilantro. Let chill in the fridge for three or more hours.

JEFF BEACH

diet

Jeff Beach has spent a lifetime on the The Jeff Beach Diet and is still kickin’.

Add tomato and avocado just before serving. Serve with tortilla chips and extra hot sauce for those wanting a little more kick.

AVOCADO: Heart-healthy, nutritious and delicious

Avocados are a hearthealthy food that packs a powerhouse of vitamins,

4 Chicz July/August 2019

minerals and other nutrients.

Just 1/3 of a medium-sized avocado has just 80 calories

and holds nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, as well as good, monounsaturated fat. It’s also sodium, sugar and cholesterol free.

Below is a great breakfast to start your day and is packed with protein, fiber and healthy fat; all with just 349 calories and a fantastic taste!

AVOCADO TOAST WITH EGG & TOMATO INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS: 5-6 avocado slices Slice avocado and stack on 1 slice whole wheat bread, toast, or mash avocado until toasted smooth and spread on toast.

1 tomato, sliced, or halved Season with salt and pepper. cherry tomatoes Add tomatoes.

1 egg Cook egg as preferred – Salt and pepper, to taste poached, fried or scrambled.

Hot sauce, if desired Place egg on top of tomato OPTIONAL: Cooked bacon, slices. Sprinkle with salt and ham or cheese pepper. Serve with hot sauce, if desired.

Break the ‘rules’ of wine –

whip up a spritzer Mix wine with club soda?

Heaven forbid!

Drop a few ice cubes into your Chardonnay?

How uncouth!

That might have been the thinking years ago, but the times, they are a changin’.

These days, the philosophy for drinking the wine is to do whatever makes you happy – even if that means committing some former faux pas like adding a few ice cubes into a glass of white wine on a hot summer day or making a refreshing wine spritzer.

Let’s look a little into spritzers. If you Google around, you can find a lot of good recipes for this simple, summery drink. At its most basic level, it’s just white wine

mixed with club soda.

Fill a glass half-way with your favorite white (it doesn’t have to be expensive) and splash in some club soda until the glass is three-fourths full and add a small slice of lemon or lime. But here’s an important tip: Make sure both the wine and soda are very cold, such as being in a cooler under ice for a half hour or so.

If you’re not a club soda fan, try ginger ale, a lemon-lime soda or even a ginger beer.

Garnishes for spritzers can run the gamut – orange slices, cubes of watermelon, fresh basil sprigs, fresh mint leaves, strawberries, peaches. A good trick is to match the garnish with some of the notes of the wine. You also probably want to stick with just one or two garnishes instead of dumping

in everything you can find.

Be a real wine rebel and try this: Fill a wide wine glass half-way with a super-chilled white wine that has notes of peach or pear, add an ounce or two of chilled club soda and for the final touch drop in a frozen peach popsicle, the kind that uses real fruit. The popsicle will gradually melt away as you sip.

A cool thing about spritzers is that if friends are coming over, you can easily whip up a pitcher. Just keep in mind the ratio of roughly one-part club

soda (or sparkling water) with three-parts of wine.

Red wine can also join the summer party. Here’s one idea: Start with some frozen blueberries or raspberries at the bottom of the glass. Smash them a bit with a wooden spoon. Add a sweet variety of red wine mixed with berry-flavored sparkling water and voila! You have a very refreshing drink to enjoy on the deck or at the beach. Ahh, summer!

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July/August 2019 Chicz 5

Savor summer with

WATERMELON

N

By Lori Mork

othing says summer like watermelon and with August 3 being National Watermelon Day, I thought it was only fitting that I explore the various ways that watermelon can be used.

Watermelon is the perfect treat for those hot summer days since it’s 92 percent water, making it especially refreshing.

This tasty summer treat is originally from southern Africa and was first cultivated for its ability to hold water in a desert landscape. Wild melons

are relatively tasteless and can even be bitter; cultivation has allowed the fruit to become the sweet treat we all know.

Watermelon is a healthy source of vitamin B6, as well as potassium that helps to avoid muscle cramps. It is also cholesterol free, fat free and only 80 calories in a two cup serving.

Eating watermelon straight off the rind is delicious, but give some of these recipes.

You’ll find out just how versaMEDITERRANEAN SALAD Dash cracked black pepper tile this fruit can be.

INGREDIENTS: 6 cups torn mixed salad DIRECTIONS: greens Mix first four ingredients in a WATERMELON PINEAPPLE SALSA 3 cups of 1” cubed watermellarge bowl. Right before servINGREDIENTS: on ing, toss salad with olive oil 2 cups watermelon, diced 1/2 cup sliced onion and season with pepper. small Watermelon Board (www.water1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 2 cups pineapple, diced small melon.org) 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup red onion, diced small 3 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped 1 diced jalapeno pepper 2-INGREDIENT WATERMELON SHERBET 1/4 cup lemon juice INGREDIENTS: In a food processor, blend Dash Tabasco sauce to taste 6 cups (1-inch) seedless wafrozen watermelon, sweetDash salt and pepper to taste termelon cubes ened condensed milk and Sugar, optional, depending on 1 cup sweetened condensed salt until smooth. Spread into sweetness of fruit Tabasco sauce, pepper and milk airtight container and freeze salt. If additional sweetness is 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until solid, about two hours.

DIRECTIONS: desired, add a small amount Watermelon can be frozen Combine watermelon, pineof sugar. Cover and refrigerate DIRECTIONS: up to a month before using. apple, onion, cilantro and until chilled.

Freeze watermelon cubes Sherbet will keep in the freezWatermelon Board (www.waterjalapenõ pepper. Add lemon in a single layer until solid, er for about two weeks. juice and season to taste with melon.org) about four hours.

WATERMELON SLUSH INGREDIENTS: 4 cups frozen cubed watermelon, seeds removed 2 cups lemonade DIRECTIONS: Allow frozen watermelon cubes to sit at room tempera-

ture for 20 minutes to lightly thaw.

Place watermelon and lemonade in a blender and blend until combined. If you want it to be thicker, add more ice and blend.

Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Watermelon Board Representing 1,500 watermelon growers, shippers and importers nationwide, the Watermelon Board’s goal is to promote the nutritional, culinary and convenience benefits of watermelon. For more information or for more recipes, visit www.watermelon.org.

6 Chicz July/August 2019

Cut WATERMELON into easy-to eat pieces

W

atermelon is a great summer treat, but sometimes eating it can be a problem. When cut into wedges, it’s always hard for kids to eat down to the rind without WATERMELON STICKS To create easy-to-eat watermelon sticks, first cut your watermelon in half.

Begin by slicing your watermelon in half.

Place half the watermelon face down on a cutting board and start slicing at 1/2-inch intervals from one side to the other.

Next, turn the cutting board 1/4 turn and begin slicing

getting their faces full of sticky juice. It may be good, but it’s messy! Here’s a great way to serve watermelon for easy eating.

through the watermelon at 1/2-inch intervals all the way across, making cube shapes.

You’ll have to hold the watermelon together with one hand when making the second round of cuts.

Separate the pieces and you’ll have pieces that even the smallest fingers can control.

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Tea preparation Preparing tea doesn’t have to be complicated; it can be as simple as dunking a tea bag in some hot water.

And yet, as you dive deeper into the world of tea, things do tend to get more complicated.

Once you start exploring loose-leaf teas, you’ll want to make sure that you are preparing your tea correctly to best bring out its full flavors.

To get the best tasting tea, start with a high-quality water, such as filtered drinking water or bottled water.

However, the most important thing to remember is that different types of tea require different brewing temperatures. Although specific teas might have their own brewing recommendations, it is possible to make some generalizations.

In general, green teas require the lowest brewing temperatures at somewhere between 170 to 185 degrees. Black teas usually require the hottest temperatures, just short of boiling at around 205 to 210 degrees. Oolong teas are generally brewed in between green and black, with temperatures of around 185 to 200 degrees.

By Lowell Anderson

Although you can buy electric heaters that will heat water to a precise temperature, it’s easy to use a conventional kettle and just estimate the temperature by looking and listening.

When you see some steam coming out of the kettle and very small bubbles forming, you’ll know you’re getting to the right temperature for most green teas. On the other hand, when the water is just short of a full boil with large bubbles, you’ll be in the right range for most black teas. For oolongs, you’ll want to be somewhere between the two - or maybe a little closer to black tea temperature.

For most teas, about one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea for a 6-ounce cup is about right. Although you could just put the tea leaves right in your cup and strain them out after brewing, there are a variety of brewing baskets available that fit in a cup.

The important thing is that it be large enough for the leaves to spread out and have water around them. After pouring the hot water over the leaves, cover the cup while it steeps.

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Tea Time Fourth in a series Exploring the world of tea its own recommended time. But in general, green teas are steeped two to three minutes and oolongs and blacks, three to five minutes. Part of this is personal preference, with longer times giving you a stronger cup of tea. Just remember that some teas can become bitter when steeped too long.

The nice thing about loose-leaf teas is that they can often be re-steeped several times with slightly different flavors each time. Green tea leaves can often be steeped two to three times, and oolongs, even more. Black teas are generally only steeped once.

ANDY’S CHOICE:

entertaining ideas Summer adult beverage

By Andy Mellgren

Time to get out the gin and vodka or crack open summer style beers like a shandy or enjoy an array of refreshing Rosé wines.

When you are planning a festive evening, remember Rosé wines. There are many great options for the red wine drinker as well as the white wine drinker. For the red wine drinkers look for Sangiovese or Cabernet based Rosé. For a lighter style look for Grenache based Rosé. Here are a few great options; Lange Twins, First Sighting, Oscar’s, Hayes Valley and Gris Marin Summer beers like Shandy, Session and IPA’s are here!

Session beers are typically medium to light body and

lower in alcohol. Refreshing on hot afternoons. There are several spectacular summer beer brands to choose from such as Summit, Leinenkugel’s, Beaver Island, Sierra Nevada, Alexandria’s own Copper Trail and many more.

Make adventurous cocktails using Vodka, Rum, Tequila or even Gin. Keep it simple and mix with lemonade, club soda, tonic or any flavor or type of sparkling water.

How about a unique twist on a Bloody Mary? Use cucumber vodka. Prairie Organic Vodka is made from MN corn, distilled in MN and sold by a MN distribution company.

June is National Dairy month; celebrate with cream

based cocktails. On the other hand, simply pour over ice and enjoy. Pritchard’s bourbon cream is an excellent choice.

This summer make time for simple yet unique and fun summer liquors, wines and beers.

Now is the time to mix it up along with the season. Invite friends and family over and enjoy some new favorites. The

following are some excellent beer, wine and cocktail food pairing ideas: Grilled salmon, pork loin, sausages, pork chops and apples; roasted and cured meats; walleye or sunfish and perch; any wild game, or grilled sausages and peppers; pizza or burgers.

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Celebrating

FRENCH FRIES French fry lovers, it’s time to mark your calendars – Saturday, July 13 is National French Fry Day. To get you primed for the event, here are some interesting facts about french fries.

EVERYONE HAS A FAVORITE CUT Fries come in all shapes, sizes and cuts: curly, wedge, crinkle-cut and shoestring, to name a few. According to a National Today survey, America’s favorite is the straight cut, with 21 percent preferring it.

Curly fries follow close behind at 20 percent. However, there are a lot of regional variations.

July 13 is the perfect day to plan a local french fry tour to sample the many types available.

NOT EVERYONE SHARES EQUALLY It’s not unusual for people to share their fries, although

women are particularly generous. A 2017 Canadian survey by the McCain Company found that 63 percent of women share their fries, while men are a little more protective of theirs, with only 43 percent saying they like to share.

THERE’S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO DRESS A FRY Fifty-five percent of Americans say they prefer ketchup on their fries. The second most popular dip is ranch dressing at 15 percent, followed by cheese sauce at 8 percent, barbecue sauce at 7 percent and mayo dead last at 4 percent.

French Fry Day only comes once a year, so don’t miss out and be sure to stay on the lookout for deals offered by local restaurants.

Did you know?

10 Chicz July/August 2019

•The first occurrence of French fries in America may have been at a diplomatic dinner hosted by Thomas Jefferson.

•Americans eat more than 16 pounds of French fries every year, which comes to over 2 million tons!

•McDonald’s uses about 7percent of the potatoes grown in the United States for its French fries. They sell more

than one-third of all the French fries sold in restaurants in the U.S. each year.

•There is a whole museum dedicated to them. It is the French Fries Museum known as Friet Museum. It is located in Belgium.

•In entire Europe, Belgium tops the list countries with high per capita French fries consumption.

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Work toward your own

Financial Independence

By Andrew Holte

Once again, it’s time for fireworks, picnics and parades as the nation celebrates Independence Day. Collectively, we enjoy many liberties, but some freedoms can be elusive – and financial freedom is one of them. What actions can you take to help yourself eventually declare your own financial independence?

For starters, you’ll want to determine what financial independence means to you. Is it the liberty to meet all your cash flow needs? The freedom to retire comfortably, at the age you choose? The ability to set up the kind of legacy you’d like to leave? If any or all of these things are important to you, consider the following suggestions: First, liberate yourself from a heavy debt load. The lower your debts, the more you can invest for your future. So try

to live within your means and avoid taking on unnecessary debts. You also might want to consolidate existing debts to lower your interest payments.

Here’s another suggestion: Don’t fall captive to the daily fluctuations of the financial markets. You can look past these constant ups and downs by following a disciplined investment approach, based on your goals and risk tolerance.

Finally, free up the potential in your 401(k) or other retirement plan by funding it adequately. Put in as much as you can afford and increase your contributions when your salary goes up. Within your plan, select an investment mix that offers reasonable growth opportunities.

Gaining your financial independence requires time and commitment. But once you’ve achieved this freedom, you’ll know it was worth the effort.

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Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid Daisy Jones & The Six tells the fictional story of a rock bank climbing its way to fame in the 1970s. The story is told through fictional interviews with members of the band and a other key people who

DAISY JONES AND THE SIX”

Rated 7.75 Reviewed by the “Between the Wines” Book Club

were part of their lives. The story follows two paths – that of Daisy Jones, a young, beautiful, free-spirited, hard-partying singer/songwriter, and that of The Six, a band led by lead vocalist Billy Dunne, whose devotions are split between the thrill of the rock band life and his quest for fame and his love for the woman who captured his heart.

Their paths cross and Daisy sings one song with the band.

That song launches all their careers into fast-forward, and for the sake of fame, they continue working together. This relationship is a continuous challenge. Rock band history is full of stories of bands breaking up or members lashing out at each other. The spotlight most often shines on the lead singer, leaving others in the shadows. That, along with crazy schedules and an abundance of drugs, alcohol and adoring fans, makes conflict a given. Toss a second

Between the Book Club review lead singer into the mix, and emotions escalate rapidly.

The love-hate relationships are strong throughout the book. The author did an excellent job of making those relationships so real that you couldn’t help but do a Google search to find out what band this story was really about, or search for the hit songs referred to in the book, sure you’d find them. Sadly, those searches turn up nothing other than reviews about this book.

While this is a work of fiction, many critics claim Jenkins Reid did a great job of depicting the lifestyle of a 1970s rock band in true fashion. The

drugs, sex and rock-and-roll lifestyles were well blended with the first-person voices of all involved – including that of Billy Dunne’s wife.

As is typically the case, the stories of famous people captivate others. Even though this famous group is fictional, readers will still find themselves captivated. Jenkins Reed does a superb job of depicting the characters’ struggles between wanting fame and fighting the demons that come along with it. We didn’t love the ending and were disappointed to find out who was conducting the interviews, but it was still an intriguing read.

August 9 is National Book Lovers Day Yes, for all you book lovers out there, there is a special day just for you!

August 9 is National Book Lovers Day, so finid your favorite reading spot and spend the day lost between the covers of a good book.

DID YOU KNOW? •The first books ever printed were made from parchment or vellum. Many times the covers were crafted from wood that was covered with leather.

•The first public libraries began during the Middle Ages.

•According to Google, 129, 864,880 million books have been published as of 2010.

•According to Barnes and Noble, the longest sentence ever printed was 823 words.

12 Chicz July/August 2019

(From Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables).

•The first book ever written using a typewriter was The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain.

•The book Alice in Wonderland, written by Lewis Carroll, was based on a real 10-yearold girl named Alice LIddell, whose family was close friends with Carroll.

•The three most read books in the world are The Holy Bible, Quotations from Mao TseTung and Harry Potter.

•President Theodore Roosevelt read one book a day.

•The most expensive book ever purchased – Codex Leicester by Leonardo Da Vinci – went for $30.8 million. It was purchased by Bill Gates.

unstructured play

a guyz perspective

Getting back to

By Eric Morken

I sat in on a parent discussion recently during early childhood education classes for our youngest daughter, Kyla.

She is 3 now and had a blast spending a couple hours, twice a week in a school setting this past year. This parent time was an opportunity for us to discuss options for getting our children out and about throughout the summer.

It’s amazing how many organized activities are available to families now. This is not an attack on that. They provide opportunities to make sure kids are not just anchored inside all summer long, but I can’t help but think back to my own childhood when I see it all.

The memories from my summers as a kid don’t center around going to any organized activities. I remember playing with my sisters in the woods behind our house, building a fort in the rafters of our barn that made us feel like we had constructed the

Taj Mahal after installing the carpet from old sample squares that our parents had.

I remember walking up and down the dredge ditch fishing for carp in the warm, shallow water. As I got older, I remember the pick-up basketball games I played with friends at the park more than any organized summer league games we played in a gym.

There’s plenty of research to show how unstructured play benefits children -- things like promoting decision-making skills, building gross motor skills and helping to work through stressful situations.

It’s hard to quantify exactly how that unstructured play has benefitted me as an adult. Has it helped me in my work life? Maybe. Part of my job is being able to write about the outdoors, and that passion for the outdoors all started as a 5-year-old out exploring.

That’s what I’m most grateful for when I look back at my early years is how they

p o h S p o t eS

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shaped that love for adventure in me.

I’m a firm believer that having a passion -- whatever it is -- is a key to overall happiness.

I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t excited about something, and rarely is it ever something anyone else would consider a big happening.

It’s planning my next bow hunt. It’s studying aerial maps and scouting a new property. It’s everything that goes into having that next adventure.

This summer, when you’re running the kids to this activity and the next, just remember that it’s OK to slow down sometimes and just let them play.

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outdoors

Live your life

By Betty Ravnik

In Minnesota summer means outside activities.

Activities like outside dining, gardening, and get-togethers with friends and family. One of the biggest trends in house designs is outdoor spaces.

From theatre to cooking there are many ways to enhance the outdoor experience. Having family time together out-

14 Chicz July/August 2019

side is now as easy as it is inside the home.

The outdoor patio entertainment and furniture industry is exploding with new product.

The new products are replicating the comfort and look of indoor furnishings. There are weather resistant furniture options from swivel rocker chairs to plush sectional sofas.

In addition there is a trend for chaise lounges and daybeds.

Table lamps and rugs add

to the cozy “outdoor living rooms”.

For the second year in a row, a survey by the American Institute of Architects found that outdoor kitchens are the most desired cooking space.

Outdoor cooking is now complete with many of the luxuries of indoor kitchens. To complete the outdoor cooking experience there are weather resistant cabinets, stone countertops, refrigerators,

freezers, sinks, bar systems and of course grills and side burners. In addition to these products there are exhaust hoods and pizza ovens to take the outdoor cooking experience to the next level.

No outdoor space is complete without a fireplace and television. Fireplaces anchor the design of the exterior space and can add to the charm. In addition to or to replace the fireplace are patio heaters and fire pits to extend the time we can enjoy the outdoors. Televisions and surround sound systems are easy with wireless technology.

Outdoor fans and chandeliers complement the various activities of the space throughout the day and night.

These outdoor safe fixtures add ambiance, safety and comfort.

All of these “luxuries” are really about saving time and spending time with friends and family instead of splitting time with the inside amenities. For all these reasons and because summers are short in Minnesota isn’t it time to invest in your outdoor living space?

Recycled GLASS MULCH

Landscaping professionals looking to minimize their carbon footprint are increasingly featuring recycled materials in their designs. Glass mulch is one such product and it’s sustainable, functional and beautiful.

This increasingly popular type of mulch is made from broken glass that’s tumbled to remove sharp edges. Until recently, it was mostly applied in small amounts around potted plants. However, it’s now being used in larger quantities for landscape design. The effects can be stunning, as glass mulch adds color and sparkle that are impossible to achieve with other types of mulch. The intense colors of glass mulch never fade and this durable mulch lasts nearly forever.

The benefits of recycled glass mulch extend beyond being esthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly. In fact, this mulch type also offers superior drainage for your plants. Plus, this long lasting material will never need to be replaced

because glass doesn’t decompose or blow away in the wind.

Glass mulch has no safety concerns as far as chemicals. It is more expensive than other types of mulch.

There is a drawback to glass mulch, however. It shouldn’t be used near plants that need high moisture because it can create a drier environment than typical mulches that help prevent water loss from the soil.

Another concern with glass mulch is keeping it looking nice. Because it’s not natural, when leaves and petals from plants fall into it, they will show more and won’t end up becoming part of the the mulch.

If your garden could use a little shimmer and you want to do your part for the environment, recycled glass mulch could be just what you’re looking for.

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3

garden

climbing plants for your

Climbing plants lend a whimsical look to your property. They’re also ideal for hiding fences and creating privacy in your yard. Here are three beautiful vines that will undoubtedly look great in your garden.

1

Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris). Once this vine reaches maturity, which may take up to five years, depending on the climate, it produces delicate white flowers. Its dark green leaves turn yellow in the fall, and the bark turns red in the winter.

Climbing hydrangea can grow in shady areas, but will flower more in the sun.

Also, know that hops is part of the Cannabaceae family, meaning that this plant may give off an aroma similar to marijuana, its close cousin.

2

3

Hops (Humulus lupulus). Though ideal for covering a pergola or trellis, beer lovers will likely appreciate growing their own hops for entirely different reasons.

If you’re planning on harvesting the cones to make your own home brew, make sure you choose a female plant.

Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata). This beautiful vine looks great all year round, but will really turn heads in the fall. That’s when its green leaves become a brilliant red. Despite its name, Boston ivy is actually native to Asia.

Plants that thrive in ACIDIC soil

Does your garden have particularly acidic soil? If so, there are a number of wonderful plants that would feel right at home in your yard. While most plants prefer soil that is neutral or only slightly acidic, there are numerous acid-loving and acid-tolerating species.

Vegetables. Some veggies that thrive in acidic soil are radishes, potatoes, rhubarb and peppers. And many tolerate acidic soil, including broccoli, carrots and tomatoes.

Fruits. A few types of fruit that love acidic soil are blueberries, cranberries, currants, elderberries and gooseberries.

Some that tolerate acidic soil are grapes, raspberries and strawberries.

Flowers. The types of flowering plants that love acidic soil are numerous and varied. Some of the most popular ones are azaleas, daffodils, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, camellias, heather and bleeding hearts.

Want some more ideas? Soil pH is usually consistent in a given geographical area, so you could take a stroll and see what plants are growing well in your neighborhood.

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People growing indigenous plant gardens will want to opt for Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) instead.

It’s native to most parts of North America and just as lovely as Boston ivy.

While vines can make a lovely addition to your landscaping, it’s best to avoid letting creepers grow up your home’s walls.

They can cause damage to the structure and be difficult to remove. Consider placing a trellis in front of a wall instead.

THE BENEFITS OF GROWING NATIVE PLANTS Cultivating native plants is an important part of preserving your region’s wildlife and ecological system. Imported plants were popular for many years, but ecologically conscious gardeners are increasingly opting to grow native plants instead.

To be considered native, a plant must be indigenous to the area. In North America, any plant that was here before Europeans arrived is considered to be native. They have evolved alongside local wildlife, and are uniquely able to support the birds, mammals and insects that live here.

Because they’re suited to the local climate, indigenous plants often require much less care than flowers, shrubs and trees that come from other parts of the world.

A guide to

ergonomic gardening tools Gardening has a number of health benefits. It can improve your joint flexibility, increase your bone density and broaden your range of motion. However, you need to be careful not to put excessive strain on your muscles and joints. So how do you protect yourself against overexertion and injuries? One simple solution is to use ergonomic gardening tools.

WHAT ARE ERGONOMIC GARDENING TOOLS? Ergonomic gardening tools place little strain on joints, muscles and tendons.

Due to the way they are designed, they conform to the natural movements of the human body and respond to each user’s particular needs.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN ERGONOMIC GARDENING TOOLS Depending on the specific tool and on your personal requirements, consider one or more of these features when purchasing a new garden tool.

Height or adjustability. Long-handled tools and handle extenders can help you keep your back straight. In particular, use hoes, spades and rakes that can be adjusted to your height.

Weight. Use tools that are lightweight but also sturdy. The heavier the tool, the more strain it puts on your muscles.

Grip. Look for handle grips that are soft but firm and that have a comfortable thickness. Ensure they’re made with nonslip and weatherproof materials.

Assistive features. Some tools have features that reduce the amount of force needed on your part. For instance, you can get spring-loaded forks, spades or shears. Or you can get tools with forearm braces, which protect the wrist by ensuring that the larger arm muscles do most of the work.

When shopping for ergonomic gardening tools, it’s best to shop offline. That way you can test the feel of the tools and ensure they’re well suited to your needs.

July/August 2019 Chicz 17

4TH OF JULY TOP (Pinterest) SUPPLIES: Shirt of choice Fabric paint Q Tips Paper plate Book INSTRUCTIONS: Insert book into shirt and fold top and bottom underneath to create a flat surface.

Paint child’s hands or feet with desired design.

Have them stamp their hand or feet on the flat surface of the book.

Let it dry.

So cute for the 4th of July!

By Melanie Danner

MASON JAR HERB GARDEN SUPPLIES: Mason Jars Rocks, sand, pebbles, etc.

Potting Soil Herbs Water

INSTRUCTIONS: Fill the jars about 1/4 full with rocks, sand, pebbles to help with drainage.

Add potting soil leaving about 1”-2” to add more soil.

Place herb in center and add the remaining soil.

Add water and enjoy!

FIREWORK STRAW ROCKETS (Pinterest) SUPPLIES: 1.5” x 6” pieces of paper Scissors Straws Tape Pipe cleaners, ribbon, color crayons or markers, etc.

INSTRUCTIONS: Wrap the paper around the straw and tape to create a tube.

Fold one end of the tube and add embellishments and fold again.

Secure folder with tape.

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How to help a child who

struggles to make friends Realizing that your child is never invited to classmates’ birthday parties and seems to spend their days alone at school can be upsetting. Here’s what you can do to help.

UNDERSTAND THE CAUSE Try to understand why your child is isolated. Perhaps they’re aggressive, shy or arrogant. Or maybe they’re being bullied.

If you can’t find an explanation, talk with their teachers to get more insight into the matter.

Ask your child about how they perceive their social situation and what they feel about it. They might be sad, angry or confused. However, some kids enjoy solitude.

If your child doesn’t appear bothered by the situation, don’t force them to make friends. But if they’re lonely or feel excluded, try to help them come up with solutions.

PROVIDE ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT Sometimes kids need help bonding with other children. If this is the case with your child, bring them to the park or organize family outings that include kids in the same age group.

Additionally, participating in extracurricular activities might allow your child

to build confidence and meet others who share their interests.

Above all, the most important thing to do is to communicate with them. Listen to what they have to say about their attempts to make friends. When they’re ready, allow them to forge bonds with others on their own terms.

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July/August 2019 Chicz 19

Heading back to school

Is your child overscheduled?

S

ports teams, dance classes, music lessons, coding clubs and more. There are countless enriching activities available to children that can add value to their lives. However, having too many obligations on top of school work can take a toll.

If your kid no longer sleeps well at night, complains of headaches or stomach aches or seems to struggle to keep up in school, they may have too many activities competing for their time and energy.

Other signs they’re overwhelmed include spending less time with friends and not having the opportunity to just play or relax.

So how do you strike the right balance between providing enriching activities and not overscheduling your children? Here are some options.

Check in with them. Regularly ask if they’re still enjoying their

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

benefits and drawbacks Are you wondering if the benefits of extracurricular activities for kids are overblown? Here’s what you should keep in mind when deciding whether to sign up your children for activities.

•They’re a great way to socialize and make friends who share your child’s interests, which promotes their academic and social integration.

•They boost self-esteem.

BENEFITS Many studies show that recreational, athletic and cultural activities make a positive impact on children.

Here’s why: •They allow kids to develop their talents and skills.

•They contribute to academic success by making it less likely children will lose interest in school or become depressed.

DRAWBACKS The benefits of extracurricular activities are contingent on them remaining fun. They shouldn’t feel like an obligation or become a source of tension.

Make sure your children’s schedules aren’t overloaded. Too many activities can negatively impact a child’s academic performance and even their ability to sleep.

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activities. Don’t pressure your children into pursuing things that they don’t want to do.

Incorporate free time into their routine. Make family dinners, game night and playtime a priority. Every weekend, make sure they get some unstructured time to play, read or go outside.

Be selective about new activities. If they express interest in starting something new, talk to them about strategies for including it in their existing schedule. It may be necessary to drop something else before committing to a new activity.

As a parent, it’s your job to guard your child’s well-being.

This includes their mental health.

If they’re showing signs of being overscheduled, make some changes to their routine and give them time to simply relax and be a kid.

Safety tips for kids commuting to school Are you worried about your children commuting to school on their own? Here are some instructions you can give them to make sure they stay safe.

IF YOUR CHILDREN TAKE THE BUS Leave early and don’t run to the bus stop.

Stay on the sidewalk until the bus comes to a complete stop.

Use the ramp to climb aboard the bus if there is one and sit down quickly.

Keep your backpack on your knees or stow it under your seat.

Wait for the bus to completely stop moving before getting up.

Don’t push when exiting the bus.

IF YOUR CHILDREN WALK TO SCHOOL Always use the sidewalk and make sure to respect traffic

lights, even if there aren’t any cars coming.

Only cross at intersections and look left and right before crossing.

If there’s a crossing guard, follow their directives.

IF YOUR CHILDREN BIKE TO SCHOOL Always wear a helmet and make sure it’s securely fastened.

Make certain nothing gets stuck in the bike’s chain or wheel such as backpack straps or an umbrella.

Use bike lanes whenever possible.

Don’t go too fast, even if you’re in a hurry.

In addition to providing your kids with these safety tips, it’s a good idea to accompany them to school a few times before they make the trip on their own.

Pickleball

moves outside for summer

By Ross Evavold

This is the time of year everything seems to move outside, and for good reason.

Who doesn’t want to make the most of the summer?

Pickleball is a sport that has caught on in many areas, and for several years now it has been played in the Lakes Area Recreation gym in Alexandria.

This time of year, that option is mostly reserved for when the rain prevents games from being played outdoors.

LAR’s outdoor pickleball season has been running since June 10, and goes through Aug. 23, with tennis courts at Discovery Middle School available from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

To take part, all one has to do is stop into the LAR offices at 720 Fillmore St. and pay a one-time $25 fee that covers court rental costs for the entire summer. If anyone just wants to give it a try for a day, the cost is $5 for adults and $4 for those age 60 and over.

Pickleball – which is a sort of combination of tennis, ping pong, racquetball and badminton – has grown in popularity for many reasons.

One is its simplicity and affordability. In this case, the nets and balls are provided, and if you don’t have a paddle of your own, Lakes Area Recreation even has some for use, said LAR’s Sammie McDaniel.

“It’s pretty inexpensive,” she said.

Pickleball also amounts to a social activity. Doubles matches will throw four players together on the small courts and allow for plenty of conversation and action. Games move quickly, rules are easy to learn, and the sport isn’t confined to just one age group.

A variety of ages and skill levels can enjoy pickleball.

Players with less mobility can still be quite effective by being able to hit the ball to pinpoint locations.

“It has a good fitness aspect,” McDaniel said. “It’s a good way to stay active.”

In fact, you can get in as strenuous a workout as you desire in pickleball. With the smaller courts, players don’t have to cover nearly as large an area as they do in tennis, and it doesn’t take quite the toll on one’s body. But get a group with more advanced ability levels and it can still be a very good workout.

After August, pickleball will move back indoors to the LAR gym.

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To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call 800.762.1177.

HeartlandOrthopedics.com July/August 2019 Chicz 21

UNDERSTANDING

flash

By Lowell Anderson

O

ne of the constant battles in photography is getting enough light to make a good image. All too often, it seems, the best photo opportunities occur in places that are too dark.

One of the old standby solutions to this problem is using flash.

The trick is to know how it works, what its limitations are, how to control it, and when to use it (or not use it). If you are only using flash because nothing else seems to be working, chances are you will get mediocre or poor results.

HOW FLASH WORKS Flash can be either built in to the camera or an external unit that is attached to a cam-

PHOTO

TIPS

era. Light from the flash travels to the subject and is then reflected back to a sensor either on the camera or on the flash.

When enough light reflects back to this sensor, the flash shuts off its light output.

LIMITATIONS A flash won’t work well in all situations, and sometimes it won’t work at all. The biggest requirement is to be fairly close to the subject. A small, built-in flash may only have a range of 10 to 20 feet, whereas a larger, external flash may work up to 50 feet or so. Beyond that, forget it. In addition, flash does not generally work well for photos that have a lot of depth because one area will be well lit while other areas will be too dark or

One of the best ways to use flash is to help fill in dark shadows to minimize the differences between light and dark areas in a photograph. too bright. Finally - but also important - is the fact that flash can be distracting and annoying to both subjects and people around you.

KNOW HOW TO CONTROL IT The most important control is knowing how to shut the flash off when you don’t want it or you know it won’t work well.

Beyond that, your most useful flash control would be flash compensation, which increases or decreases the overall flash output.

WHEN TO USE Flash can be used anytime you simply must get a photo but there isn’t enough light just be aware that the results aren’t usually great. In addition, flash can be useful to help stop action, since most flash times are very quick. But the best use for flash is often as a fill-in light that is balanced with ambient light. Using fill flash in this way can make your subject and its colors really stand out and improve an otherwise dark and drab photo.

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We’re the Helpful Hardware Folks

Must-haves for your

summer road trip Summer is the perfect time to jump in your car and hit the open road. But even for the most spontaneous of road trips, it’s essential that your car is properly stocked for the journey. Here are some essential things you’ll need to bring along.

Food and water. Put some sandwiches, veggies, fruit and other snacks in a cooler, along with plenty of water.

This will spare you from shelling out for food during the drive. Plus, such provisions may prove indispensable if your car breaks down or you get stuck in traffic.

Sunscreen. If you’re cruising in the sun for hours, you risk getting a sunburn. Put some sunscreen on before heading out and bring the bottle with you in the car in case you need to reapply.

A map. Your phone and GPS aren’t infallible. Plus, these devices might lose their signal or die unexpectedly. Having a real map on hand is a good idea.

A flashlight. If you end up on the side of the road with car problems at night, a flashlight may just save the day. It can also come in handy in a number of other

circumstances such as unpacking the car at night or taking a roadside wee in the dark.

A first aid kit. A well-stocked first aid kit is a must. Essential items include Band-Aids, tweezers, hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, gauze, scissors, adhesive tape and a saline solution (for eye wash-

ing and cleaning wounds).

Finally, don’t forget to bring items to keep you and your passengers entertained. Think about bringing along music, audiobooks, games and media players.

You want to ensure that you and your companions have a fun and memorable trip.

Lovin’ Life in the Lakes Area!

Stop in and see the new

Minnesota Shirts

Lots of fun colors and styles

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on f

Exploring life

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foot

Running photographer Ian Corless captured portraits of participants, like this one of Heidi Hasapopoulos, racing in the Superior 100-mile trail race last year at a prerace meeting.

Hasapopoulos raced, but had to bow out at mile 72.

Running fuels Alexandria woman’s passion

By Celeste Edenloff Heidi Hasapopoulos of Alexandria started running when she was in elementary school, but she really wasn’t a fan.

She would run laps around Washington Elementary School, which was in the neighborhood she grew up in. And she would run in school events. But she didn’t push herself and she didn’t really try all that hard. She was good, but could have been better.

Growing up, her family didn’t have a lot of money and she remembers her mom, Clarann Harapat, buying her shoes from Woolworths, which at the time was located in downtown Alexandria.

At that time, running was a sport she could participate in that didn’t require fancy, expensive gear, but her mom saw to it that her shoes always looked good. Hasapopoulos said she remembers her mom decorating her shoes with glitter to make them look fancy.

She said her mom saw something in her that she never saw in herself – until college.

The 1998 Alexandria graduate was going to college at St. Cloud State University when one day she decided to go for a run.

“I remember thinking, ‘Wow, I actually love this’ ” she said. “It was then I figured out that running was so much more than competition. I loved running on the paved trails through St. Cloud.”

Running became her therapy.

Her escape from the world when she needed to clear her head. It gave her time to think, helped with her anxiety and allowed her to embrace her surroundings and appreciate the beauty around her – trees, clouds, the river.

Hasapopoulos continued running after college and found herself getting into the racing scene.

She did a number of 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles) and even some half marathon (13.1 miles) races. Her competitiveness started to come out, but she found that competing against other people was often discouraging.

“I knew my life wasn’t going to change just because I got a spot on the podium. I wasn’t going to

make any money,” she said. “I let go of needing to be the best and comparing myself to others. I like to compete against myself. I like to run my own pace and my own race.”

Running again started to be about letting her brain/mind just be in the moment. Yes, she tried hard and gave it her all, but she enjoyed it and tried to soak in the surroundings instead.

Her first marathon (26.2 miles) happened after the birth of her first child, Brysen, in 2010.

“I remember telling people that after I had the baby, I would do a full marathon,” she said. “And I did.”

Since then, her second son, 6-year-old Brody, was born. After having her two boys, she’s had the opportunity to run several more marathons, including her dream race – the Boston Marathon. At one point, she didn’t think she was good enough to enter it. But after the bombings that took place at the Boston Marathon in 2013, her mindset changed.

HASAPOPOULOS

Continues on 26

Heidi Hasapopoulos is pictured with her sons, Brysen, 10, and Brody, 6, in front of a glacier while they were hiking in Seward, Alaska.

July/August 2019 Chicz 25

HASAPOPOULOS

from page 25

“Oh hell no, you are not going to take this (the sport of running) away from us,” Hasapopoulos said she remembers thinking that time.

In order to compete in the Boston Marathon, runners have to qualify. She did qualify, but unfortunately, her qualifying time wasn’t enough to get her into her dream race. But that didn’t stop her from trying again and in 2018, Hasapopoulos got to the opportunity to be a runner in the Boston Marathon.

“It was a slow, cold, wet, windy, but amazing day!” she said.

Although running on roads and paved trails makes her happy, Hasapopoulos has found a new love – trail running.

Rugged, hilly and challenging terrain that winds through parks or out in the country where the sky is open and the trees are plenty is where her new happy place is. Being surrounded by nature in the unknown fills her soul with gratitude.

“It truly is my therapy,” she said. “It keeps me sane and makes me feel human. Trail running to me is peace, freedom and happiness.”

It was about five or six years ago that some running friends of hers introduced her to trail running. She was told to go running with Shawn Severson, who used to be a physician in Alexandria but has since moved, out at Carlos State Park.

Hasapopoulos remembers wondering why this woman, whom she never met, would want to take the time to go running with her. But the two of them went out to the park and that is all it took. She was hooked.

“I love being in nature,” she said. “I love the seclusion of it. I am more at peace when I am running by myself on trails.”

Just like road races, Hasapopoulos was introduced to trail racing – ultra trail events with mileage that makes non-runners and even some runners heads’ spin.

Since getting into trail running, Hasapopoulos has tackled the 50K (31.06 miles), 50-miler, 100K (62.13 miles) and even a 100-mile race.

The Fall Superior 100-miler was the hardest race to date, she said, adding that unfortunately, it was also the first time she registered a DNF. At mile 72, she had to drop out of the race due to some health issues which meant she did not finish. It was heartbreaking for her, but she also knew it was the right thing to do and the smartest decision. She is forever grateful

26 Chicz July/August 2019

It truly is my therapy. It keeps me sane and makes me feel human. Trail running to me is peace, freedom and happiness.

HEIDI HASAPOPOULOS to her pacers and crew that helped get her that far.

She has some other memorable races, road races, like when she had the opportunity to push a disabled athlete during a half marathon in San Diego and when she got the chance to pace a blind man during the Carlsbad Marathon.

One of her most memorable trail runs happened in another country. She had the chance to run through Nepalian villages with “out of this world Himalayan views” while competing in the Impact Nepal Trail Marathon.

But to date, one of her most memorable and favorite races ever took place earlier this year at the Spring Superior 12.5K Trail Race when her oldest son, Brysen, ran with her. Her goal has been to run all the distances offered at the Superior races, which she has done up until this year when the 12.5K was offered. She’s ran the 25K, marathon, 50K, 50-miler and the 100-miler.

When registration opened for the spring race, Hasapopoulos said Brysen asked if he could do the 12.5K with her.

He’s been at the races with her before and although he’s 10-years-old, knows what trail running is all about.

After the mother-son duo finished the race and were on their way home, Hasapopoulos said her son was so sad.

When she asked him what was wrong, he told her he wanted to go and do it again because it was so much fun. Her heart melted.

Heidi Hasapopoulos and her 10-year-old son, Brysen, pose for a photo after completing the Superior 12.5K trail race this spring. This was the first time Heidi and her son ran a trail race together.

Although she doesn’t push her boys into running, deep down she’s always hoped they would love it as much as she does. And they do. Both of them. But they also love baseball and just being outside, having fun.

“I want my kids to explore life by foot, even if that means they don’t turn out to be runners,” she said.

When it comes to advice for those thinking about starting the sport of running, Hasapopoulos shared some sage advice.

“Don’t compare yourself to other runners. Be patient. Leave your watch at home and just run. Take it all in when you’re running,” she said. “And most importantly, don’t think you can just go out and run. Start slow. Run a block. Then the next time, run another block. Don’t give up and just enjoy the journey of each step you do take.”

She also stressed the importance of finding what works for you. Just because one brand of shoe works for one person doesn’t mean it’s going to be the one that works for someone else. She said not to focus on pace or even on winning. She said to just go out and run, do your best and be proud.

“I have just as much mad respect for those who come in last as I do for those who come in first,” she said. “Truly, just don’t give up. And remember, if you run one block, you are a runner. Period.”

Top three

Fourth of July spots

for your bucket list

It’s America’s birthday and everyone’s invited to the nationwide party! Cities in every corner of the country are gearing up for daylong beach parties, grandiose parades, nighttime concerts and dazzling fireworks displays. This year, put down the grilling tongs, travel to one of these former beacons of the American Revolution and get ready to party like it’s 1776!

BOSTON, MASS. A city that once threw wild tea parties, Boston is a premiere Fourth of July destination. Watch the waterfront come alive with the sights and sounds of freedom during Harborfest! Featuring more

than 200 events, ranging from fireworks, cruises, tours and, of course, the city’s famous Chowderfest, Boston’s Independence Day festivities have something to offer for attendees of all ages. A city renowned for its strong maritime and colonial heritage, it’s the perfect stop for history buffs looking to celebrate with patriotic cheer.

PHILADELPHIA, PA. What better place to celebrate Independence Day than where it all began? As the birthplace of the nation, Philadelphia hosts one of the most acclaimed Independence Day events in the country. Visit the Founding Fathers’ old stomp-

ing grounds for a weeklong celebration that includes free concerts, special exhibits and parties on the Parkway. And, of course, don’t forget to admire the country’s most iconic relic while you’re there: Liberty Bell!

WASHINGTON, D.C. Last, but certainly not least, the nation’s capital! Grab a spot along Constitution Avenue to witness the country’s most popular Independence

Day parade first-hand. Featuring a stream of lavish floats, military personnel and visually impressive displays of red, white and blue, it’s a one-of-a-kind spectacle your children will never forget. And for the grand finale? Revel in the nation’s largest fireworks displays as they illuminate the sky above Washington Monument.

Where will you salute the nation?

July/August 2019 Chicz 27

CROSSWORD

FIREWORKS WORD SEARCH

AERIAL BARGE BARRAGE BOUQUET BURST COMET CONSUMER DISCHARGED 28 Chicz July/August 2019

DISPLAY DUD EXPLOSIVES FALLOUT FINALE FIREWORKS FLASH FOUNTAIN

CLUES ACROSS 1. Cash dispenser 4. Air pollution 8. Illegal seizure 10. Shop 11. Besides 12. Spanish dish 13. Protective covering of seeds 15. Greedy eater 16. Existing only in the mind 17. Make rough 18. Cooperation 21. A way to consume 22. Strike out a batter in baseball 23. Swiss river 24. 2K pounds 25. Domesticated animal 26. Surrounds the Earth 27. Legendary actress 34. Seattle ballplayer 35. Bluish greens 36. Carrying of a boat 37. Having a particular shape 38. Takes advantage of 39. The Destroyer (Hindu) 40. Basmati and saffron are two 41. Leak slowly through 42. Parrots 43. Midway between south and southeast

SUDOKU

FUSE GIRANDOLA IGNITER MORTARS POWDER SHELLS TECHNICIAN WHISTLE

CLUES DOWN 1. Vinegary 2. Ohio town 3. Bivalve mollusk 4. Type of hat 5. Liquefied by heat 6. Synthetic acrylic fiber 7. Wild or sweet cherry 9. Flower segment 10. Lizard-like 12. What politicians stand on 14. Pie _ __ mode 15. Indian city 17. Old TV part (abbr.)

19. Assaults 20. Paddle 23. Types of photos 24. Dorothy’s friend was made of this 25. Soirees 26. Scottish port 27. Percussion instrument 28. Auto industry icon Iacocca 29. Type of drug 30. Historic city in Germany 31. Animal disease 32. Some like them in martinis 33. Get away 34. Entertainment 36. Where ballgames are played

HOROSCOPES for July ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 You are juggling many things, Aries. If you are having a difficult time figuring out which balls to drop and which ones to keep in the air, look to Virgo for help.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, many people are counting on you this week and you don’t want to let them down. Recognize that it takes time to see results. Be patient and stay the course.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 There are a few things that you have to get off of your chest, Gemini. Others may not be ready and willing to listen to what you have to say right now, so give it time if need be.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, even though you have a lot to say, you have to make your words count. Select the things you have to say for each specific person and moment in time.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Several different activities and people are vying for your attention, Leo. All of this information can be overwhelming, so you will need to find a quiet area where you can unwind.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 You are always one to lend a helping hand, Virgo. So when you need to call in some favors this week, do not let it make you feel like you are taking advantage of anyone.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 New ideas pop into your head and they excite you about future projects, Libra. The only trouble is settling on what you want to do, especially if it involves spending money.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 It is okay to ask for help even when people think you are the strongest one around, Scorpio. Seeking and accepting help is a strength, and others will recognize that.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Look for some more enjoyable recreational activities you can tackle in the weeks to come, Sagittarius. It’s good to change up the scheduling now and again for a different pace.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 An interesting prospect comes your way, Capricorn.

You aren’t quite sure what to make of it, so give it a few more days to work out the kinks before responding.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, if you try to fix everyone’s problems, you will only get frustrated. Sometimes those closest to you know what works for them and what doesnÕt.

Trust their instincts.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, if you have any health concerns, discuss them with a doctor soon. Do not delay an appointment and embrace the doctor’s advice.

Wendy Oksness :: LPL Financial Advisor

Skin Care Massage

Financial Independence I am committed to helping you pursue financial independence and a successful retirement.

Call to schedule a consultation today.

Alexandria | (320) 762-2686 | mmfcu.org (between Walmart & Fleet Farm)

2100 Arrowwood Lane NW Alexandria, MN

320-759-5003

www.arrowwoodresort.com

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union is not a registered broker/dealer nor affiliate of LPL Financial.

Not NCUA Insured

Not Credit Union Guaranteed

May Lose Value

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July/August 2019 Chicz 29

contributing writers

Eric Morken

Lori Mork

Andy Mellgren

Al Edenloff

Eric Morken of Alexandria is a husband, father, sports editor and outdoor enthusiast.

Lori Mork of Lowry is a mother, grandmother and dabbler in all things food, photography and decor related.

Andy Mellgren is the Director of Operations for Plaza and Downtown Liquor.

Al Edenloff of Alexandria and his wife, Celeste, were married in the heart of California wine country and enjoy sipping wine on their weekend date nights.

Betty Ravnik

Betty Ravnik of Alexandria is the owner of Ravnik & Co, (a gift, furniture and home dĂŠcor store) previous interior design instructor and avid gardener.

Jeff Beach has spent a lifetime on the The Jeff Beach Diet and is still kickin’.

Jeff Beach

The Between the Wines Book Club was founded in 2003 by a group of Alexandria area women who enjoy reading, friendship and wine.

Between the Wines

Andrew Holte

Ross Evavold

a Magazine for FUN women!

Lowell Anderson is a photographer at the Echo Press newspaper.

Lowell Anderson

Andrew Holte is a financial advisor for Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Ross Evavold is the editor of the Echo Press newspaper.

Melanie Danner of Alexandria is an at-home mother and craft lover.

Melanie Danner

Celeste Edenloff

clicz!

Celeste is a reporter for the Alexandria Echo Press (1999-2011, 2016-now) and lived in the Alexandria area since 1997, reporting on the community she calls home.

She enjoys running and has participated in more than 200 races with her husband, Al.

Join us online for bonus content, things we find amusing, and other fun stuff!

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30 Chicz July/August 2019

SUPPORT THESE LOCAL MERCHANTS

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Shop Alexandria HOURS: Mon - Fri - 9 - 5

614 Broadway St | Alexandria

Next to AAAA theatre

Online Booking Available!

Check us out on Facebook

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Velkommen!

DOWNTOWN ALEXANDRIA • LITTLE FALLS

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N • ANTIQUES • COLLECTIBLES D MAVE • REPURPOSED TREASURES D IVA EN CA • FURNITURE • DÉCOR OPEN 320.759.2300

Creative Touch 516 Broadway, Alex 320-762- 8786

6th & Broadway • Alexandria 320.846.1100 • facebook.com/shopMagpie

YEAR ROUND

“Come in for our prices, Come back for our quality.”

High quality name brand items at thrift store prices clothing, purses ,shoes, jewelry, household, misc. items, furniture and so much more.

Mon- Fri 9 AM - 5 PM • Sat 9 AM - 2 PM

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111 6th Avenue West, Downtown Alexandria 320-762-0309 • 800-58-5336

Klothes Kloset Thrift Store

Let Kyle Serve You!

660 Nothside Dr. NE, Alexandria • 320-763-9888 Owned & operated by Runestone Area Education District (NON-PROFIT)

The

Yesterdays Antique Store

517 Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308

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(320) 762-8990

M-F 9-6 *Sat 9-5:30 * Sun 12-4

Blue Rooster

Shoppe

1001 Hwy 29 N. - Alexandria, MN Hours: Thurs. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm 320.219.7069 Sue: 952-484-5701 Bill: 612-298-9444 www.blueroostershoppe.com

Two levels of furniture, pottery, jewelry, glassware, primitives and unique home décor.

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LARGE SELECTION OF MINNESOTA TEES & SWEATSHIRTS • FUN APPAREL • JEWELRY • GIFTS & CARDS

619 Broadway St, Alexandria Mon. - Sat. 10-5 www.pastandpresenthomegallery.com Sun. 12-4

Women & Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Accessories and Household Decorative’s 418 N. Broadway, Alexandria • 320.762.1538 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10-5

www.scandinaviangifts.com

320.763.5157 • M-F 9-7; SAT. 9-5:30; SUN. 12-4

Interior Design, Gifts and Décor all under one roof

609 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-8300 • www.ravnikandco.com

Featuring Imports from all Scandinavian Countries 604 Broadway, Alexandria • 320.763.6363

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Salon & Clothing Boutique Hair & Lash Extensions

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EVENINGS & WEEKENDS

BY APPT ONLY!

Vintage ❦ Repurposed Furniture ❦ Home Décor ❦ Gifts

Where you will find your one of a kind item

July/August 2019 Chicz 31 001809948r1

livery e D n i b Ca lable!

Avai

SUMMER MADE EASY AT Cheeses Dairy Deli Meat

Elden’s Smokehouse Frozen Food Health & Beauty Natural and Organic

Olive Bar Produce Seafood Floral

Open 24 hours a day & 7 days a week!

320-763-3446 • www.ELDENS.com Corner of 3rd & Nokomis, Alexandria

Only store in town that is LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED.

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