Chicz - May/June 2022

a Magazine for FUN women!

May/June 2022

TM

PERENNIALS

for springtime gardening

Take the

CHARUTERIE challenge

Spotlight: Elizabeth Jenson, Doctor of Physical Therapy We are excited to welcome Dr. Elizabeth Jenson, the new Director of Rehab Services, to the Alomere Health family.

Having grown up in Edina, Minnesota, Dr. Jenson started her education at Gustavus Adolphus College and completed her graduate degree at the University of the Pacific, California. Her education included Neuro Pediatric work at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN), serving veterans at the Navy Medical Center (Balboa, CA), and flying to Vietnam on a medical mission trip to provide free care and education.

She has a soft heart for veteran care, “As a second generation Vietnamese-American, I was born here, but my parents came over during the Vietnam War. I wouldn’t be here without there service.”

Now married with two, identical twin girls, Elizabeth and her husband wanted to put down roots closer to where they grew up. But finding an organization that would support her ambitious career and life goals was be a challenge. Her search included all of Minnesota and the major health systems. Her favorite? Alomere Health.

“I’m in love with this community. People here are humble, really smart and innovative.

Yet they slow down enough to really get to know you,” says Dr. Jenson.

She continues to point out that Physical Therapy really leads to emotional wellness, “The reason we therapists love our job is that fundamentally, we help people get their lives back.”

“It’s demoralizing to have someone care for you because you no longer can. I have so many epic stories of people battling and winning. For instance, we helped an amputee Marine walk over difficult terrain and step into a fishing boat—his favorite hobby —all by himself. If you help a child hear, speak, or run again, or a grandparent recover from a stroke… it’s inspiring!”

Starting her career at Allina Health, Elizabeth spent 8 years working in their Neuro-Ortho department.

She helped develop their Concussion, Falls Prevention, Mental Health Fitness, Parkinson’s, and Stroke Fitness programs.

While at Casa Colina Hospital in Southern California, she led the Concussion program which served a wide range of patients, from professional athletes to the elderly.

Her passion is developing programs to best serve the community, and has lectured nationally about Posst-Concussion Syndrome.

It’s better here.

2 Chicz May/June 2022

Alomere Health • Alexandria Clinic • Osakis Clinic • Lakes E.N.T. • Heartland Orthopedic Specialists

May/June 2022

Spring is here!

May is here and so is spring. After a long, arduous winter, everyone is ready to head outside and enjoy the weather.

Travis Gulbrandson helps us get ready for spring with some insights into the best perennials for gardening and we’ve added the University of Minnesota’s top ten perennial flowers from their annual Flower Trial.

Since May is also National Skin Cancer month, we’ve given you some tips on staying safe while enjoying the outdoors as well as some facts about skin cancer.

In Real Chicz of Douglas County, Celeste Edenloff interviews five women in law enforcenment, getting an insight into their reasons for choosing their careers.

Andy Mellgren gives you some great suggestions for cocktails and mocktails to help celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day in Andy's Choice.

Lowell Anderson points out ways to read better in The Learning Life, and Al Edenloff invites you to try the charcuterie challenge and learn how to put together a great charcuterie board.

These stories and many more are just waiting for you in this issue of Chicz.

Enjoy!

Lori Mork, Chicz editor

Perennials for springtime gardening

10

Take the charcuterie challenge

Inside this issue

8

The power of gift giving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Stay safe in the sun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Mommy and me. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Puzzles and games. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

CHICKEN AND RICE HOTDISH

21

Food and drink

Take the charcuterie challenge. . . . . . . . . . . 8 Andy’s choice: Cocktails and mocktails. . . 14 A family favorite: Chicken and rice hotdish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Life/Wellness

Cocktails and mocktails

14

Home

Perennials for springtime gardening. . . . . 10 Top 10 annual flowers at U of M Flower Trial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Your writers

Chicz contributing writers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

May is National Skin Cancer Month. . . . . . . 12 Practice safe sun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Did you know? Skin cancer facts. . . . . . . . . 12 Use gratitude to create a bounty of positive change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Learning Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Speak up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Skin cancer facts

12

To advertise in Chicz call 320.763.3133

Diann Drew, Publisher Lori Mork, Editor/Designer

Chicz is a publication of

Echo Press, 225 7th Ave. East Alexandria, MN 56308 ©2022 Echo Press

Send your feedback to:

chiczmag@gmail.com

Real Chicz of Douglas County PAGE

4 May/June 2022 Chicz

3

real chicz of douglas county

The women behind the

BADGES

By Celeste Edenloff

Women in law enforcement followed their hearts

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week.

In 2022, National Police Week will be taking place May 11 through May 17.

National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America’s law enforcement community.

Although National Police Week was established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962 as a way to pay special recognition to law enforcement officers who have lost

their lives in the line of duty, this magazine would like to pay tribute to the women law enforcement officers who work with the Alexandria Police Department and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

The staff of the Chicz magazine would like to say “Thank you” to Abigail Mumme and Darcie Zirbes from the APD and Kristie Reuss, Aimee Sebesta and Nicole Swanson from the DCSO. Read about why they chose a career in law enforcement, what is the most rewarding part of their jobs, the most challenging and more in their Q&As.

KRISTIE REUSS

Q:How long have you been with

the Alexandria Police Department and what are your current duties?

A:

I have been working at the police department for just over nine months. My duties include responding to calls for service, patrolling the city of Alexandria and rendering public services.

Q:

ABIGAIL MUMME

Abigail Mumme is a patrol officer for the Alexandria Police Department. She attended Alexandria Technical and Community College for a degree in law enforcement and was hired in Alexandria right after graduation.

Why did you want to become a law enforcement officer or what drew you to this career path?

A:

I have always admired the police officers in my hometown and knew that I wanted to make a difference in peoples’ lives. Every day is a new challenge and brings something new to learn from. I enjoy the variety in calls and being able to help people at their worst.

Q:

What part of your job is the most rewarding and what part is the most challenging?

MUMME continues on 7 4 Chicz May/June 2022

Kristie Reuss was raised in Glenwood and is currently a bailiff. She received her AA degree in law enforcement at the Alexandria Technical College in 1997.

She volunteered with the Pope County Sheriff’s Posse, was a bike patrol officer in Glenwood and dispatched in Pope County while attending school.

Kristie was hired in Douglas County in 1997.

She has been married to her husband, Brad,

going on 24 years. They have a small hobby farm and have raised a lot of animals.

Q:

How long have you been with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and what are your current duties?

A:

I have been with Douglas County going on 25 years. I was hired as a correctional officer in 1997 and was promoted to jail sergeant in 2005. After 16 years in that position, I recently transitioned to bailiff. I help with court security and make sure the in-custody inmates get to their hearings. When I am not helping over at court, I help jail staff where needed.

REUSS continues on 6

Q:

AIMEE SEBESTA

Aimee Sebesta is a deputy with the Douglas County Sheriff ’s Office.

She moved to Minnesota from South Dakota in 2017 to attend the Alexandria Technical and Community College.

While in college, she worked as a first responder for Parkers Prairie Ambulance.

During her second year as a law enforcement student, she said she was lucky enough to land a job at the Douglas County Jail working as a correctional officer.

How long have you been with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and what are your current duties?

A:

I have been with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office since the beginning of 2019. As a deputy, I am responsible for patrolling the county, responding to emergency calls, handling day-to-day calls, investigating crime, enforcing the law, but most importantly protecting and serving the citizens of Douglas County.

Q:

Why did you want to become a law enforcement officer or what drew you to this career path?

A:

She was a correctional officer for a year and a half before being hired on as a deputy. She has loved her job ever since.

Q:

What part of your job is the most rewarding and what part is the most challenging?

A:

Probably the most rewarding thing to me is when people say “Thank you,” and are satisfied with how I helped handle a situation.

The most challenging thing is when I can’t help someone, and I start second guessing everything I did.

SEBESTA continues on 6

Q:

DARCIE ZIRBES

Darcie Zirbes has worked with the Alexandria Police Department for 15 years. Prior to moving to Alexandria, she worked as a corrections officer with Sherburne County while finishing up her master’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Cloud State University.

She grew up in a law enforcement family – her dad retired from law enforcement after 35 years. That is where her love for the career grew.

What ultimately made me want to go into law enforcement was my school resource officer I had in high school. Officer Bayne knew how to make a bad day turn good.

How long have you been with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and what are your current duties?

A:

Darcie and her husband, Chris, have been married for 15 years and have two boys – Connor and Grayson. They also have a dog, Granby, who is just over 2 years old.

Q:

How long have you been with the Alexandria Police Department and what are your current duties?

A:

I have worked with the Alexandria Police Department for 15 years. I am currently working in a new assignment as part of the ACCESS (A Community Collaboration of Enhanced Support Strategies) team. This team is a partnership between the police department and North Memorial. A community paramedic and I follow up on different wellness concerns Alexandria community members have and assist them in connecting to resources available to better their overall health and wellness.

ZIRBES continues on 6

I have been with the sheriff’s office since 2015. I am currently assigned as the School Resource Officer, working with all Douglas County schools and teaching D.A.R.E. In addition to 911 dispatching, I have worked as a water patrol deputy and road deputy. I am currently involved in our Domestic Violence Task Force, Douglas County Sheriff’s Federation, Douglas County SWAT as a negotiator and serving on the Minnesota D.A.R.E. board.

Q: Why did you want to become a law

enforcement officer or what drew you to this career path?

A:

I did not ever imagine being here.

I never felt like I had a career direction.

There were many people I met and situations that I encountered that brought me here. While working for the shelter, a victim and her children came in with a female cop late one evening, and I was inspired. Simply, her presence brought this family comfort and safety, and I wanted to be that.

Q:

What part of your job is the most rewarding and what part is the most challenging?

A:

The most rewarding part of my job is building connections and being the comfort on someone’s worst day. I think it is so important right now to show the public that we are here for them. When I get

SWANSON continues on 6

NICOLE SWANSON

Nicole Swanson was born and raised in Douglas County. She lives in Garfield with her husband and their two children. Her husband is also in law enforcement, which keeps their household very busy.

Before becoming a deputy, Nicole obtained her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a focus of Sociology from Concordia University in Saint Paul.

She started her “big girl” life as a Family and Youth Advocate at the Harriet Tubman Shelter in Maplewood.

Eventually, she returned home and was hired with the DCSO as a 911 dispatcher, while she completed the Law Enforcement Skills program.

May/June 2022 Chicz

5

ZIRBES from page 5

Q:

Why did you want to become a law enforcement officer or what drew you to this career path?

A:

SWANSON from page 5 the validation that someone trusts us, I feel rewarded. The most challenging part of this job is the current culture surrounding law enforcement. When your partners become family, it is difficult to not take it personal if their intention in uniform is questioned.

Q: What advice would you have for a young woman

considering going into law enforcement?

A:This

career is a calling. If law enforcement is placed on your heart, do it. It is not easy, but if you keep a pure heart and you never forget why you started, your service will be rewarding.

Q: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A:I like to be with my family. If there is one thing this

job has taught me, it is that life is short, and I do not want to miss any moment being with the people I love.

REUSS from page 4

Q:

Why did you want to become a law enforcement officer or what drew you to this career path?

A:

I like to try to help people and being a part of the law enforcement “family.” My dad told me I watched too much CHIPS Patrol when I was younger.

Q:

What part of your job is the most rewarding and what part is the most challenging?

A:

I had an interest in law enforcement as I grew up. Growing up in law enforcement and seeing some of what my dad went through during his career, I was a little hesitant to enter this field even though it was one of interest and passion for me.

It is a career that really impacts the entire family and your way of life. I had other interests as well, so I tried several other majors in college but just kept coming back to criminal justice. I simply couldn’t stay away and nothing else felt like it “fit,” so I followed my passion and I have loved the journey.

Q:

What part of your job is the most rewarding and what part is the most challenging?

A:

There are so many things in my career that are rewarding.

I can’t really say there is one thing that is most rewarding. I loved building relationships with the kids at Discovery Middle School while I was the School Resource Officer. The ACCESS team has given me so much joy already being able to assist those in our community who are needing some assistance maneuvering the resources available.

Calls involving children are definitely the most challenging for me. It doesn’t matter if it is because they or a family member are sick or injured, they have seen violence or been the victim themselves. Those are the calls that can break my heart in one moment.

Q:

What advice would you have for a young woman considering going into law enforcement?

A:

I would tell any young woman considering law enforcement that if it is what is in your heart, then follow it. I can’t imagine doing something else and being as happy in my career as I am. There are tough days, and you see and handle some tough things; you need to always remember to take the time to take care of yourself.

Q:What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A:When I am not working, I love spending time with my

The most rewarding is when people in the criminal justice system have worked hard and gotten their lives turned around for the good and they will call or you run into them in the public and they are so excited to share how well they are doing.

The most challenging is seeing people at their very worst and they feel they are worthless.

family. We enjoy playing board games, watching movies at home and spending time on the lake. Both of my boys are quite active, especially with wrestling, so we spend a lot of time at wrestling events. When I get some time all to myself, I love to read; I can read for hours. It is a hobby but it is also my time to unwind from everything required of me as a mom, a wife and police officer.

What advice would you have for a young woman considering going into law enforcement?

SEBESTA from page 5

Q:

A:

This is a career that is a calling and if you feel you are being called, follow your heart. Law enforcement is a second family and the camaraderie between officers is priceless.

Q: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A: I like to volunteer and am currently working on a

project to help with critical incidents through the chaplaincy in a neighboring county. I love being outdoors – especially in the woods or by a lake – walking/hiking, camping, kayaking, bicycling, jogging, swimming, rollerblading, snowshoeing and riding motorcycle, snowmobile and my donkey. And I like spending time with family and friends. And also dancing, reading and knitting/looming.

6 Chicz May/June 2022

Q:

What advice would you have for a young woman considering going into law enforcement?

A:

To all the females thinking about going into this career field. IT. IS. WORTH. IT. Even though you feel like you don’t fit in at times, you do. You deserve to be in this job just as much as anyone else. Focus on your craft and have tunnel vision on being the best officer you can be. Stay humble.

Q: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A:Activities I thoroughly enjoy on my days off are hunting,

fishing, spending time with family and friends. Being a South Dakota girl at heart, I can’t turn down a walk in the field for a pheasant.

MUMME from page 4

A:

Law Enforcement at ATCC Interested in a career in law enforcement? There are programs available at Alexandria Technical and Community College where you can receive the knowledge necessary to effectively function as a peace officer and pass the Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training Board examination, transition into the field of law enforcement using an already received associate degree or higher from an accredited college, receive hands-on skills training necessary to receive licensure in Minnesota or be able to transfer to a Law Enforcement bachelor’s degree program at Minnesota State universities.

Law Enforcement AAS Degree Law Enforcement Career Transition Diploma Law Enforcement Skills Certificate Law Enforcement Transfer Pathway AS Degree For more information, visit www.alextech.edu, call 320-762-0221 or email go@alextech.edu.

One of the most challenging parts is seeing the negative side of the community. There are a lot of dangerous and sad calls we respond to that can build up if you don’t keep up with your mental health. Meanwhile, the most rewarding part is helping during those situations. We get to help citizens who are in urgent need and bring about positive changes at difficult points in someone’s life.

Q:

What advice would you have for a young woman considering going into law enforcement?

A:

Do not surround yourself with only law enforcement. Work can be very stressful and you do not want to bring that home with you every day. Continue to enjoy hobbies and activities with friends and family outside of work. Finally, keep your mental health well by doing something for your mind, body, and soul every day.

Q:

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A:

When I am not at work, I am most likely seen at the gym, lifting weights. I have been a host family for both the Northstar Knights and Blizzard teams in town so I go to multiple hockey games in the winter. In the summer, I spend the day swimming in the lake, reading a good book or sketching a drawing. I also love spoiling my three nieces whenever I visit.

May/June 2022 Chicz

7

Take the

CHARCUTERIE CHALLENGE

5 tips for feasting on cheese, wine, meats and more

By Al Edenloff Charcuterie.

It’s an odd looking word hard to pronounce (shar-coote-ree) but it can be a ton of flavorful fun with a big or small group of friends or a romantic date night.

Simply put, charcuterie is a collection of cold meats, chees-

es, veggies, fruit, nuts – wherever your taste buds lead you.

Creating a charcuterie board is half the fun, artfully arranging a little of this, a lot of that. The other half is trying all the combinations of meats and cheeses, and pairing them with a sip or two of wine.

Here are five tips for the ultimate charcuterie adventure: Break out of your cheese rut. Try something new – goat cheese, manchego, asiago, havarti, parmigiano-reggiano.

Try to get at least five different types of cheeses. You

1

can be frugal and buy just a small amount of each. Figure on 3 or 4 ounces of cheese per person on your board. Vary the kinds of cheese – soft, hard-aged, medium-hard, blue, fresh, goat’s cheese. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

2

Remember the meats.

Dry, cured meats are a delicious accompaniment. Look for prosciutto, rillettes, soppressata, genoa salami. You can also keep it simpler if you’d like – good old summer sausage, Canadian bacon, or even turkey bites or sticks. Another amazing addition is smoked salmon.

3

SPRING FRESH!

Get nutty. Be sure to add some crunchy nuts to your board – smoked almonds, cashews, macadamias, pecans.

Other touches – add green or kalamata olives and fresh fruit like red or green grapes or strawberries or pears or grape tomatoes. Let your imagination go and try blackberries or pomegranate seeds.

4

And don’t forget the crackers – several different kinds, shapes and textures.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, the wine. You’ll want both red and white. One wine that will pair amazingly with almost everything on your board – Gewürztraminer or Riesling. Excellent charcuterie wine/cheese pairings include: Chardonnay with semi-hard cheeses like havarti, edam or gruyere; a Red or Tawny Port with blue cheeses; and Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel with hard-aged cheeses like manchego, asiago or parmigiano-reggiano.

5

If you’re a couple, challenge each other to find the most memorable pairing. A simple but delicious “must try” – a sip of Chardonnay with a slice of pear topped with havarti cheese. Two more stand-out combinations: A gouda Triscuit topped with manchego, dry salami with a sip of Riesling; or a sliver of cranberry/cinnamon goat cheese log with Rose.

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The power of

gift-giving

By Lisa Via

In the early 1980s I worked at a printing company which made its own unique gift boxes for the Christmas season reproduced from original paintings. Ad agency clients looked forward to the beautifully printed box as much as the premium Louis Martini wine or Red Tail ale inside it. Each employee received a box and I still have one 40 years later minus its original contents.

Many positive memories are associated with special gifts from family, friends, employers or vendors. A carryall bag used to cart groceries or personal belongings, a coaster that keeps our desk dry from coffee, a pen we use to write, holiday sweets to enjoy with peers or friends, or a gift basket with gourmet foods create lasting memories.

Carefully curated gift baskets customized for individual enjoyment can leave the recipient with warm and lasting

memories. When gifted every year the recipient looks forward to the annual gift which reinforces the bond between the giver and the recipient. The gift contents may be customized and varied to suit the individual.

Gift baskets and boxes for corporate giving can include a company branded item and message of appreciation. Insert a logoed shirt into a box with savory or sweet foods. Or place drinkware with the company logo or tagline into a basket with coffee, or tea and a sweet treat. A company mug can be paired with hot chocolate, marshmallows, chocolates, and cookies.

Not just for corporate giving, gift baskets are a nice surprise for relatives and

friends miles away. Send a spa box with lotion, soap, and lip balm to an elderly person. Ship a creative sampler of sweet treats to friends. Share local products to someone in the military or far from home.

Family and friends will enjoy a surprise gift basket to open and use on a family movie or game night. Include tasty popcorn, chips and salsa, candy, and a warm blanket to cuddle with your loved ones.

A unique gift basket full of treats can include something for everyone at the office or the family home. The uniqueness of every gift basket customized for each recipient makes the experience memorable. Gift baskets and boxes are flexible for trending tastes but the memories and shared moments will be everlasting.

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9

Perennials

for springtime gardening

By Travis Gulbrandson

Winter is finally gone, which means it’s time for gardeners to get out and start planting.

And what else says springtime like perennials?

Some local experts weighed in on the more popular varieties of perennials, and offered some tips on planting them.

“Daylilies are a big hit with a lot of people,” said Dennis Possin, nursery worker at Colorful Seasons Garden Center in Alexandria. “Tall garden phlox is another one that people really enjoy because it blooms a long time and there’s lots of good colors.”

In addition to salvia, tall garden sedum and coreopsis, hostas are also popular.

“They always have a real good color and (are) pretty tough and pretty durable,” Possin said.

Color is one of the main attributes people look for when choosing which

perennials to plant, Possin said, as well as size and how long it blooms.

Durability is another major factor, said David Vaske, owner of Miltona Greenhouses.

“In this area, hardiness is an issue,” Vaske said. “We’re still considered a zone four (for plant hardiness), but after a winter like we’ve just had, we realize we’re really geographically close to a zone three, so hardiness is always a major issue for us.”

One of the hardier perennials is the pulmonaria, or lungwort plant, Vaske said.

“A lot of the newer varieties have sort of speckled or varied leaves, so they’re grown almost as much for the leaf, like a hosta would be, as much for the bloom,” he said.

The dicentra, or bleeding heart, is very hardy, as well, and grows well in partial shade, he said.

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Of course, one of the things many gardeners look for is the flower itself, although very few perennials will bloom all season.

“There’s actually a fair number of bloomers, so probably one of the earliest is the hellebore, either a Christmas rose or a spring rose,” Vaske said. “I wouldn’t say they’re super hardy, but they have this ability to grow in really cold soil. A lenten rose is one of those hellebores that would be starting to bloom almost now already.”

Although bulbs can be planted in the spring, Vaske recommends gardeners get a head start on them in the fall.

Bulb roots only grow when the temperature is below 40 degees, according to Vaske.

Planting them in the spring means that once the temperature rises above 40 degrees, roots stop growing.

“If you plant a tulip in the spring it will bloom, but it will have no roots under it to put on energy to come back for the following season,” he said For new gardeners, Possin advised, “Start out slow. Don’t try to do it all in one year, especially if it’s a big area. You can gradually fill it in in a couple years.”

For experienced gardeners, Possin recommended trying something new.

“Don’t be afraid to try something that’s out of your comfort zone, especially if it’s a plant you’re not familiar with,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions about it.”

THINK 2022: Top 10 annual flowers at U of M Flower Trial Here are the results from the 2021 Annual Flower Trial conducted at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris. With nearly 500 varieties under evaluation, it was one of our largest trials yet.

The goal of evaluating flowers is to develop recommendations for our area. In 2021, we tried nearly 500 varieties ranging from ageratum to lantana to petunias to salvia. Each year, the Top Ten Performing Annuals are selected from the hundreds of cultivars tried.

Here are the top ten performers in 2021: Angelonia Angelissa™ Rose Begonia benariensis BIG® White Green Leaf Begonia BK Collection Vermillion

Red Calibrachoa Bloomtastic Yellow Celosia Kelos® Fire Orange Coleus Colorblaze® Torchlight™ Petunia Itsy™ Magenta Petunia Surfinia® Purple Heart Salvia farinacea Sallyfun™ Sky Blue Sunflower Suncredible® Saturn™ The Horticulture Display Garden provides a venue for education and demonstrates landscape design and plant material options for homeowners and gardeners. The objective of annual flower research at the WCROC is to evaluate varieties for plant quality characteristics. Evaluations are shared with commercial and amateur bedding-plant growers.

Source: U of M Extension office

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May: National Skin Cancer & Melanoma Awareness Month

Stay safe in the sun

DID YOU

KNOW

Protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors this summer

By Lori Mork I have become a statistic. A recent biopsy on a mole came back positive for melanoma – the most serious type of skin cancer. Fortunately for me, my cancer is Stage 0, or melanoma in situ, meaning that it was still confined to the upper layer of the skin and hadn't moved into any deeper layers, making it highly curable. It's estimated that 197,700 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in 2022, with 97,920 in situ.

The treatment for this in situ cancer is to remove the growth surgically, which usually cures the melanoma. So, from a mole smaller than an aspirin to a 3-inch scar after excision, my forearm will never look the same. But the cancer is gone – completely. I will, however, head to my dermatologist every six months and keep a close eye on my skin for any changes.

My husband Bob is also a statistic, having recently had several basal cell carcinomas removed. Both of us have a

?

Dark- or bright-colored clothing made from tightly-woven fabrics protect your skin better than light colors or see-through, loose-weave fabrics.

history of long hours in the sun to factor against us as well use of tanning beds in our younger years. Little did we know Source: aad.org what we were doing to ourselves.

I'm also old enough that I don't rememSkin cancer is the most common ber hearing about sunscreen or SPF in cancer in the United States and my teens and 20s. In fact, to our idea of sunscreen was a baby oil-iodine mixture includes basal cell carcinoma, and reflective blankets that encouraged squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. sun exposure by literally frying ourselves Source: cdc.gov outdoors.

Needless to say, my husband and I Having 5 or more sunburns are paying the price for our actions, but we are learning. Hats, sunscreen and doubles your risk for melanoma. protective clothing are all a part of our Source: skincancer.org regimen now. We can't undo the past, but we can do our best to prevent any further damage to our skin.

More than 90 percent of skin So, do the safe thing. Take precancer is caused by excessive cautions when outdoors and protect exposure to the sun. yourself. Wear sunscreen, look for Source: American Cancer Society shade when you need to and try to keep your skin covered when possible. You'll thank yourThe most common signs of skin cancer self down the road. are changes on your skin: a new growth, a sore that doesn't heal or a change in a mole.

Source: cdc.gov

Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun's rays in as little as 15 minutes.

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Source: cdc.gov

Sunscreen has a shelf life, so check the expiration date on the bottle. If there is no date, the bottle has a shelf life of no more than three years, although it can be shorter if it has been exposed to high temperatures.

Source: cdc.gov

Practice Safe Sun

SEEK SHADE. Remember that the sun's rays are the strongest between 10 a.m.-2 p.m., so look for a shady place during that time, or when you know you've been in the sun long enough.

WEAR SUN-PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. Long-sleeved, lightweight shirts, pants and sunglasses, as well as a widebrimmed hat are a good way to protect yourself from exposure. You can even find clothing that is made with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).

LATHER ON SUNSCREEN. Using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing is important. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are your best bet. And don't forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology Association, aad.org.

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13

Andy’s Choice

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or any day

Cocktails and mocktails

By Andy Mellgren Cocktails are alcoholic mixed drinks – a combination of spirits mixed with fruit juice, cream or even flavored syrups.

Mocktails are drink resembling a cocktail, but without any alcohol, but resembling a cocktail. They are made with a variety of fruit juice, sparkling water, flavored syrups or cream.

The best way to create cocktails or mocktails is to follow a few simple rules: don’t guess or eyeball measurements and if the recipe calls for using a strainer – use one. It’s especially important to measure everything if you want a smooth, delicious drink.

Are you hoping to avoid calories? If so, skip the soda and premixed drinks, which are full of sugar. Instead, mix your drinks using fruit juice, sparkling water and natural or organic mixes.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks or are looking for a healthier option, mocktails are the way to go.

There are plenty of selections of pre-mixed mocktails to choose from.

With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations on the horizon, the Triple Crown horse races (think mint juleps) or you’re just planning on hosting a crowd, there are so many possibilities.

Here are my suggestions for cocktails/gifts:

Traverse City Whiskey Barrel Craft Bourbons Noah’s Mill Bourbon Doubleday Whiskey Northland Vodka Chairman’s Reserve Rum Traverse City Cocktail Cherries Seedlip (non-alcoholic spirits) Owens mixes and flavors Stirring mixes

Not sure what to buy or perhaps you wish to avoid all the fuss of mixing? Try Drakes Boxtails (ready-to-drink cocktails in a box). Just open and pour over ice. There are several flavors to choose from.

Cheers!

Andy

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MAPLE CABINETS PAINTED MIST LEXINGTON DOOR STYLE

By Melanie Danner

SEASHELL NECKLACE (Pinterest)

PIPE CLEANER FINGER MOSTERS

SUPPLIES: Pipe cleaners Beads Googly eyes Pom poms Hot glue/glue Scissors

SUPPLIES: Seashells Beads Glitter or glitter glue Hot glue/glue Embroidery floss or jewelry cording Scissors Drill INSTRUCTIONS: Cut a piece of floss or cording long enough to have the necklace hang where you would like and fit over the head.

Drill a hole in the top of the shell.

Cover the inside of the shell with glue.

Add glitter or glitter glue and let it dry.

Glue a bead or beads in the center.

Thread floss or cording through the hole and knot the ends together.

Time to wear it with a fun outfit!

PIPE CLEANER RINGS (Pinterest)

INSTRUCTIONS: Cut a pipe cleaner in half.

Wrap the pipe cleaner around your finger to create a spiral.

Glue a pom pom on one end to create a head.

Glue googly eyes and beads on the monster’s head.

Time to wear and play with your new friend!

PAPER ROLL PEOPLE (Pinterest)

POLYMER CLAY BADGE SUPPLIES: Polymer clay (black and yellow) Toothpicks Small star shaped clay cutter if available Cookie sheet Oven INSTRUCTIONS: Knead the black clay in your hands to soften and shape into a badge.

Set the badge onto the cookie sheet.

Soften the yellow clay and then flatten. A small glass cup can be a great rolling pin.

Use your clay cutter or toothpick to create a star shape.

Add the star to the center of the badge.

Bake the clay at 275 degrees for 30 minutes or what the clay directions state.

Check out my new badge!

SUPPLIES: TP rolls Acrylic paint Googly eyes Colored paper Hot glue/glue Paint brushes Scissors INSTRUCTIONS: Paint the top 1/3 of the roll a color for the head.

Paint the bottom 2/3 a different color for the outfit.

Let the paint dry.

Paint the top edge a color for hair and you can paint the front of the bottom edge if you would like to add shoes.

Let the paint dry.

Cut accessories out of the colored paper.

Glue the googly eyes and accessories to the face and outfit and let the glue dry.

Now it’s time to play!

SUPPLIES: Pipe cleaners Hot glue/glue Scissors INSTRUCTIONS: Take the pipe cleaner and place it behind one of your fingers (the one you plan to wear the ring on), leaving about 1.5 inches to the end of the pipe cleaner.

Wrap the pipe cleaner around your finger. Then twist the end a few times to hold it in place to create a loop.

Adjust the size of the loop to make sure it still fits on your finger.

Pinch the other side of the pipe cleaner and roll it onto itself to make a spiral.

Keep rolling the pipe cleaner into a tight spiral until there’s about 1/4 inch of space between the ring loop and the spiral.

Bend the ring loop so it’s at a 90 degree angle to the spiral.

Bend the pipe cleaner to adjust the ring position. Try to get the ring loop so it’s behind the middle of the spiral.

Now you can shape your design. We went with hearts!

First, pinch the bottom to make the V shape of the heart.

Then press your finger nail into the middle of the top to make a bend for the top V of the heart.

Pinch and bend the sides until you’re happy with the shape.

If your shape tries to unwind add a small dab of hot glue between the pipe cleaner at the very bottom where it meets the loop.

Let’s wear our new rings!

May/June 2022 Chicz

15

gratitude

Use

to create a bounty of positive change

You can feel grateful for anything. On days when you think you have absolutely nothing to be appreciative for, take stock of the little things like the air you’re breathing or the food in your pantry.

Once you realize that there are so many things to be grateful for, you’ll find that you can think of more and more blessings in your life.

After several weeks of journaling in this way, you may find that you’re spontaneously running into “good luck.” This “luck” has to do with training your brain to spot opportunities. You’ve convinced your subconscious that you’re swimming in abundance.

By Shannon Swenson

Consistent gratitude is one of the most powerful tools that you can use for a brighter tomorrow. Gratitude doesn’t necessarily create any changes outside of yourself; however, it does open you up to other opportunities.

As you become aware of the multitude of blessings already in your life, you may begin to focus on abundance more. This can set you on a path rich in optimism.

Transformation happens as you begin to express genuine gratitude to others and start feeling gratitude for everything that brings you joy.

BECOME RECEPTIVE TO ABUNDANCE A great way to increase your awareness of the abundance you already have is to start a gratitude journal. Just open your notebook once a day and take a few minutes to write down everything you’re thankful for.

GRATITUDE IS A TOOL Gratitude can put you on the path to becoming a stronger person. Use gratitude proactively to arm yourself against negativity and tough times. Focus on what you do have as opposed to what you don’t have.

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A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology entitled “Counting Blessings versus Burdens: An Experimental Investigation of Gratitude and Subjective Well-being in Daily Life” found that those who maintained a grateful attitude experienced greater physical and psychological well-being.

The study claims that daily gratitude increases self-esteem. It also reduces materialism, envy, and self-centered tendencies. Gratitude can also help you to form more meaningful relationships and generate social capital. People who consistently express gratitude are trusted more than those who don’t.

All these effects combine to create new opportunities in your life that you wouldn’t have noticed otherwise. So, start a gratitude journal and open yourself up to the possibility of abundance!

Learn to read

BETTER

By Lowell Anderson

In order to learn really well, we first need to learn how to learn. Although we all have some learning ability, with a modest amount of effort we can develop our skills, and with that investment we can learn a lot more effectively.

One of those areas that most of us could improve is our reading skills. It’s hard to overestimate the importance of reading. No matter how and where you learn, chances are there is a reading component.

READ FASTER The first thing many people think of when it comes to improving their reading skills is increasing reading speed.

Obviously, the faster you can effectively read, the more you can learn in a limited time. There are a wide

variety of books, apps and online courses for improving reading speed. Just remember that the goal is not only to read faster, but to still have good comprehension at an increased speed. The ability to read very quickly can also be great when you want to get a quick overview of the material or find a specific piece of information. It’s also important to note that there are times where we need to read slowly and carefully.

LEARN WORDS Nothing slows down reading and comprehension faster than running into unfamiliar terms or words that are unclear to you. Sometimes learning the vocabulary of a certain subject is just part of the learning process. However, if you often run into words that you may have seen before,

The Learning Life but which you’re not quite sure of, it may pay to work on improving your vocabulary.

Each specific word has an idea associated with it, so the more words you know, the more ideas you can absorb.

HAVE A PLAN Reading for the purpose of learning is usually a lot more than the simple process of reading from beginning to end. If you really want to learn, you need a strategy. Although some people may be able to remember everything they read, most of us need some way to retain, review and organize the material. This may involve taking notes, highlighting or underlining.

Stopping occasionally to

review and organize the information in your mind can also be helpful.

You may also need to read something more than once to really learn it. Skimming, or reading very quickly, can be a great way to get a general idea of the subject before going back and studying it in depth. When it comes time to review, the skill of scanning, or looking over the material very quickly to find specific information, can be helpful.

The key is to find a strategy that works for you. Remember, effective learning is hard work and is not usually easy. Have a plan and work your plan.

May/June 2022 Chicz

17

CROSSWORD

CLUES ACROSS 1. Half-conscious states 8. Unnatural 13. Deep regret 14. Rogue 15. Took without permission 19. An alternative 20. After B 21. Partner to ‘flowed’ 22. The best day of the week (abbr.)

23. Helps you hear 24. Egyptian river 25. Lake __, one of the Great 26. Make free from bacteria 30. Indigenous peoples of central Canada 31. Sanctuaries in Greek temples 32. Most unclothed 33. NJ senator Booker 34. Tibetan lake 35. Desecrate something sacred 38. John __, English educator l467-l5l9 39. Obtains in return for labor 40. Views 44. Rugged cliff 45. Not quiet 46. Body part 47. Newt 48. German city 49. A way to save money 50. NBC’s Roker 51. Dire Straits frontman 55. Actress Lathan 57. Most meager 58. Poems 59. Companions

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CLUES DOWN 1. Draws over 2. Recur 3. Current unit 4. Neither 5. Certified Radio Operator (abbr.)

6. Power of perception 7. Peace 8. Supplemented with difficulty 9. The last section or part of anything 10. Dorm worker 11. Bones 12. Most unnatural 16. Spanish island 17. The skill to do something 18. Where golf games begin 22. Untethered 25. Print errors 27. The sport of engaging in contests of speed 28. Ones to look up to 29. Stringed instrument 30. Gives whippings 32. Type of tie 34. Make more concentrated 35. Die 36. Part of a winter hat 37. Young men’s club 38. Bathrooms need it 40. U.S. president 41. American novelist 42. Take into custody 43. Hurts 45. Type of gibbon 48. American actor Lukas 51. Partner to cheese 52. Some are covert 53. Political action committee 54. To and __ 56. Atomic #28

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19

SPEAK UP!

By Sherry Bruckner

Imagine this scenario: As a truck takes the corner a little too fast, the officer turns on her lights. The truck fails to stop and she calls for back up. Officers spot the truck in an alley with the lights out. The young woman in the driver’s seat, named Angela*, fails the sobriety test, and earns a trip in the backseat of a squad car.

During the booking, Angela recounts the evening. What begins as happy hour turns into a full evening of drinks. When they leave, she rides shotgun as her boyfriend leans into the accelerator. Seeing flashing lights, he speeds away and pulls into an alley yelling, “Switch seats. If I am busted, I lose my job.” She trades places.

Angela’s actions are not unique. It sometimes feels safer to just say nothing or do as someone asks. It is common to confuse comfort and safety. While it sometimes feels uncomfortable telling someone no, or asking for what you need, that does not make it unsafe. Peo-

20 Chicz May/June 2022

Uncomfortable conversations still require a discussion ple get to feel angry or disappointed. You may still share your wishes.

Whether talking with a spouse about childcare responsibilities, telling a colleague their behavior may harm a patient or client, or discussing an aging parent’s needs, some conversations may feel uncomfortable. Yet avoiding these conversations may lead to greater discomfort, anger or resentment.

Speaking up offers the gift of clarity and long-term personal peace. So, what does this look like?

1. Check in with yourself to gain clarity on the result you wish to achieve, and your needs and values.

2. Allow space for compassionate dialogue so everyone involved may share feelings and wishes.

3. Be curious about what possible options exist to meet everyone’s needs.

4. Be comfortable that your decision matches your values and results in longterm peace.

In Angela’s situation, she may: 1. Notice she values her connection with her boyfriend, and values honesty and accountability, 2. Engage in dialogue to understand each person’s needs, during which Angela may learn her boyfriend really wants compassion and support, 3. Explore ways to show support without sacrificing her values of honesty and accountability. This may mean Angela agrees to be present and supportive as her boyfriend faces consequences, and 4. Demonstrate respect for the relationship by supporting her boyfriend and honor herself by not taking responsibility for his actions.

You may sometimes feel uncomfortable having a conversation. What is the cost of not having it? *Name changed.

A family favorite

Chicken and rice hotdish

By Lori Mork

My family loves chicken hotdish in any form – with rice, pasta, hash browns, gnocchi – pretty much any way you can serve it.

But this chicken and rice hotdish is a favorite, especially for my granddaughter, who even asks for it on her birthday!

Easy to throw together and taking less than an hour to make from beginning to end, it’s a great meal any night of the week.

You can easily change it up by adding any variety of your favorite vegetables or any flavor of cream soup you’d like. Using rotisserie chicken makes this hotdish a snap to put together.

CHICKEN AND RICE HOTDISH INGREDIENTS: 1 box chicken Rice-A-Roni or any boxed rice and pasta mix 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (you can use red, yellow and orange as well) 1/2 cup finely diced onion 1 - 10.5-oz. can cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream 2 cups chopped, cooked chicken breast or chopped rotisserie chicken 1/2 tsp. black pepper 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 baking dish.

Cook the rice a roni according to package directions, adding the carrots, green pepper and onion in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Stir in the cream soup, sour cream, chicken breast and black pepper. Remove from heat.

Spread the rice mixture evenly in the baking dish.

Cover with cheese.

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes then serve!

NOTES: I doubled this recipe to fill the 9x13 pan deeper, then put the remainder in a smaller casserole dish to freeze for later.

I also used more cheese than called for since my family loves cheese!

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21

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

Lisa Via

Lori Mork

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.

Al Edenloff

Celeste Edenloff

Celeste is a reporter for the Echo Press. She enjoys perusing her social media accounts, running and participating in races with her husband, Al.

Lisa Via is the owner of Local Flayre, a custom gift basket shop that includes handmade foods, soaps, lotions and home goods.

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

Andy Mellgren

Shannon Swenson is a Life Coach at Encompass Coaching in Alexandria. She enjoys cooking and reading and is a nature, animal and classic car lover.

Lowell Anderson is a photographer at the Echo Press newspaper.

Lowell Anderson

Shannon Swenson

Melanie Danner

An experienced civil and family mediator, Sherry believes strongly in the transformational power of the 4 c’s ~ clarity, compassion, curiosity, and cribbage. Learn more at Sherry Bruckner BrucknerMediation.com

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

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