zest May 2011

ZesT

50+ Living

A salute to Wally

Community cheers Wally Pikal’s years of music and service

May 2011

Special Focus: A how-to guide to aging-in-place • Home sweet home: Aging-in-place is the newest trend in 55+ living • Walk-in to safety: Jean Holm converted her tub to a shower and loves it

Do you suffer from symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Let me help you.

I am a certified Naturopath, Traditional Natural Health Practitioner and Natural Health Consultant.

• Weight Loss • Pain Management • Ionic Cleansing • Relaxation Therapy • One-on-One Counseling for Nutritional Assessment

REWARDS CHECKING

Tania Krueger Naturopath

Patent Pending, Ban cVu

e, Ltd.

For more info or to sign up for e-newsletters, visit www.taniaswellnesscorner.com

Tania’s Wellness Corner 02542 Z

“Senior Housing For Our Changing Times” INDEPENDENT APTS. • Spacious 1 & 2 BR units with major appliances included Opening Available!

ASSISTED LIVING APTS. • Studio & 1-BR units with kitchenettes Opening Available!

MEMORY CARE

N02648 Z

• Large living/sleeping rooms with private bath Opening Available!

COMMON AMENITIESFOR ALL RESIDENTS • Activity programming • Scheduled van trips and special outings • RN on campus 40 hrs./wk. & on-call 24 hrs./day • Beauty shop & exercise room • Lots of common areas for entertainment & get-togethers with family and friends

• No minimum balance • No monthly service charge • Use any ATM nationwide free of charge* • Earn interest on all your funds 3 EASY REWARDS RATE QUALIFICATIONS EACH CYCLE: • Make 10 debit card purchases • Set up 1 direct deposit or automatic payment from your account • Enroll and receive monthly electronic statements

Respite & Hospice care also available *ATM fee refunds per monthly statement cycle when qualifications are met. **Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of 12/13/10. $50 opening deposit requied. Rate tiers are as follows: Rewards Rates 4.11% APY applies to balances of $.01-$15,000 and 0.40% APY paid on balances over $15,000 as long as qualifications are met each monthly statement cycle. Base Rate 0.10% APY will be earned on all balances if qualifications are not met. All balances will earn 4.11% APY to 0.40% APY as long as qualifications are met. Rates may change after the account is opened. Fees may reduce earnings.

301 Ramsey Ave. N. • Litchfield, MN 55355 Phone: 320-693-3255 • Fax: 320-693-7429

1010 East Elm Ave. Hector, MN 55342

(320) 848-2093

2 ZEST / May 2011

APY**

on balances up to $15,000

A Balanced Approach to Wellness

Located in the Crow River Wellness Center 35 Main St. N., Hutchinson • 320-582-0481

4.11

%

Tealwood Management

800-893-3255 • www.cnbmn.com

Contents

ZesT

12

22

18

Give Mother Nature a hug April 22 was Earth Day. The occasion when people around the world are encouraged to stand up for a healthy, sustainable, world. The day is set aside to nudge us to take action. I compare it to New Year’s Day when we make our first strides toward keeping our New Year’s resolutions. On Earth Day, those resolutions are geared toward the planet that is our home.

My experience and awareness of environmental issues was fairly limited until I entered college. There I began to understand that protecting the Earth is more about an attitude of compassion and stewardship than it is about protests and tree hugging.

With that new knowledge stored in my brain, I look back at my days growing up on dairy farm and real-

May 2011 Vol. 2 No. 3 zestforlife.mn

4

Letter: Adult Day Services open doors

6

Money: Help parents stay on the track to security

8

SPECIAL SECTION: Home sweet home: A guide to aging-in-place

12

Feature Story: Walk-in to safety: Jean Holm loves her bathroom upgrades

16

News: Course offers tips in investing for retirement

17

Medicare Answers: What does Medicare cover?

18

Travel: South Dakota rich in history and mystery

20

Wellness: Know the facts for healthy bones

21

Wellness: Get a bone-density test

22

Cover Story: A salute to Wally Pikal

25

Out and About: A church in miniature form

26

Comfort Foods: Try breakfast for dinner

28

Puzzles

30

Last Word: Grief: You are not alone

ize how lucky I was to have had the chance to enjoy mother nature. The days my brothers and I spent turning the farm land into our own personal playground were some of my happiest.

The farm taught me the soil and livestock would only give as good as we put into them. I understand what it means to value the land, water, and animals. Without them my family would have suffered.

Even though Earth Day has passed, it is not too late to take the smallest steps toward making our world a bit prettier and a bit happier place to be.

I also hope the stories in this issue of Zest bring a smile to your face.

The cover story this month celebrates the long career of Wally Pikal.

Pikal was recently honored for his achievements in music and radio.

Zest’s special focus for May is on the topic of aging-in-place. Today many older adults are choosing to remodel their homes to suit their aging needs to stay independent.

Read about some of the projects you can undertake to make your own home more user-friendly.

As always, I welcome your feedback and ideas. You can reach me via e-mail at winter@hutchinsonleader.com or by sending a letter to Hutchinson Leader, 36 Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson, MN 55350 or Litchfield Independent Review 217 N. Sibley, Litchfield, MN 55355.

All the best!

Katie Winter

ZEST / May 2011 3

Letters

Adult Day Services open doors

By Tracy Hassan For some people, getting old makes it hard to get out of the house and spend time with others. If you live near Hutchinson, it doesn’t have to be this way.

Adult Day Services is a program which helps the elderly get out of their homes and socialize with others.

Four days each week, Adult Day Services organizes a comfortable, pleasant environment for the elderly and infirm at Hunters Ridge Community Church in Hutchinson.

What a difference it can make to get out, see other people and maybe make some new friends. Offered by Hutchinson Area Health Care, Adult Day Services offers an array of social activities, daily living skills, and health education and monitoring.

Social activities: The Adult Day Services Program provides a place to belong and a group to identify with.

People can sit in a recliner by the fire and chat, or do crafts, or maybe even just take a nap. Participants enjoy a variety of social and recreational activities, including sharing hobbies, holiday celebrations, and fun outings to local restaurants, apple orchards, historic sites and places of interest.

Daily living skills: Individuals in the program participate in activities that deal with every day living. There is time to help with individual health and wellness issues and to connect participants with resources for financial or medical concerns. Staff also offer assistance with meal planning, shopping and other daily living skills.

Health care: The staff nurse provides health education, health monitoring, assistance with personal needs and coordination of health aspects of care in cooperation with the participant’s physician. A general exercise program is scheduled daily. A physical therapist consults and provides edu-

ZesT

Tracy Hassan is the marketing executive at Hutchinson Area Health Care.

“Making Life Pleasant for Residents” Spring is here! Come out and visit us at Edgewood Gables. Put your worries aside and join us on the patio and in the gazebo for a barbecue.

P U B L I S H E D BY Litchfield Independent Review PO Box 921 Litchfield, MN 55355 (320) 693-3266

cation for participants quarterly at Adult Day Services.

Nutrition: A morning and afternoon snack and a full noon meal are provided each day. Special diets are accommodated, per physician orders.

Eligibility: The program is open to any adult age 60 or older who is physically disabled, isolated or in any way experiencing problems associated with aging. Adults under 60 who have physical or psychological disabilities may also be eligible.

Transportation: Transportation to and from home is arranged, usually through Trailblazer Transit.

For information about cost and to see if there’s room for you or a loved one, call 320-234-4630 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on a Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday – or drop by Hunters Ridge Community Church.

Hutchinson Leader 36 Washington Ave. W. Hutchinson, MN 55350 (320) 587-5000

Ask us about our Spring 2011 promotions!

NEWS Katie Winter, reporter winter@independentreview.net or winter@hutchinsonleader.com (320) 693-3266 or (320) 234-4172

For more information contact Eric Johnson at (320) 286-2159 or at ejohnson@ll.net 600 East Third Street Cokato, MN 55321

A D V E RT I S I N G Shari Forsman, advertising representative sales@crowriverpress.com (320) 234-4171

Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 (320) 587-2062

4 ZEST / May 2011

N02043 Z

P R I N T E D BY

N02670 Z

www.cokato-senior-care.org

Local

Want to feature an item from your business?

Call Shari at 320-234-5702.

Finds

Sofa Server Make your sofa a multi-purpose seat with this attractive oak sofa server, only $39.95.

Available at Factory Direct Furniture Hutchinson Location 16919 Hwy. 7 East, Hutchinson 320-587-SAVE (7283) 320-587-5590 (fax) Waconia Location (Open Thursday-Sunday only) 524 Elm Street S., Waconia 952-442-1302 (phone) 952-442-1340 (fax)

Lift Chair Available in several styles and fabrics with options like heat and massage, UltraComfort lift chairs are the best lift chairs made and start at just $599.

Available at Factory Direct Furniture Hutchinson Location 16919 Hwy. 7 East, Hutchinson 320-587-SAVE (7283) 320-587-5590 (fax) Waconia Location (Open Thursday-Sunday only) 524 Elm Street S., Waconia 952-442-1302 (phone) 952-442-1340 (fax)

Now, Look Here . . .

The newest collection of writing from the Litchfield Area Writers Group is a 120-page book featuring 55 pieces written by 12 members of the group. Treat yourself or pick one up for the reader on your gift list. $10 Available at the Independent Review 217 Sibley Ave., N., Litchfield (320) 693-3266

Gopher Sanctuary Print David Chapman, winner of the 2010 Pheasant Stamp competition, painted a Gopher Campfire Sanctuary scene in honor of the club’s 100-year anniversary. Limited edition print 24” x 32” $75. Artist proof $125. Artist Remarque $50 additional. Custom frame $75.

Only 250 signed and numbered prints available.

Call Craig at 320-587-3361.

ZEST / May 2011 5

Money

Help parents stay on the track to financial security

By Jason Alderman In many families, personal financial details aren’t always shared freely, especially between generations. But if you’re not familiar with your parents’ financial situation, you may be doing them – and yourself – a disservice.

Even with parents currently in good health, it’s wise to become familiar with their financial, medical and legal recordkeeping so you’ll be able to step in and help out if needed. You may have to walk a fine line between appearing nosey or controlling and not spotting warning signals that something may be amiss.

When you visit your folks, keep an eye out for: • Unpaid bills, late payment notices or utility shut-off warnings.

• Hints they sometimes must choose between filling

Let our medical expertise, competent case resolution, and our concern for clients

work for you.

•

Estates

•

Wills

Personal Injury • Probate • Trusts Elder Law • Accidents •

•

Lenore Flinn Attorney at Law B.S. Nursing

Scott Nokes Reg. Paralegal

•

Wrongful Death Criminal Law

•

Free Consultation.

Old Hutchinson Hotel, 16 Washington Ave W., Suite 100, Hutchinson I 320-587-4177

6 ZEST / May 2011

N02197 Z

We accept

It’s wise to become familiar with your parents financial recordkeeping. prescriptions and buying food, heating or other necessities.

• An overabundance of junk mail, unlikely magazine subscriptions or cheap prizes, which could indicate they may be targets for aggressive telemarketers or get-richquick schemes.

• Unnecessary “home improvements” that may indicate they’ve fallen prey to con artists. Or conversely, signs that they can’t afford needed repairs.

• Signs of overspending or other indicators they’re living beyond their means.

• Uncharacteristic secretiveness or defensiveness, possibly indicating they’re embarrassed about money problems or afraid their independence would be at risk if they confide in you.

Don’t be afraid to initiate conversations about your parents’ finances. While it might be awkward at first, you may in fact put their minds at ease by showing that you’re looking out for their best interests. A good way to raise the subject is to ask their advice about your own situation.

For example, bring up concerns about your own retirement planning then ask if they have adequate savings themselves.

Organize. One of the biggest problems people of all ages have with their finances is getting organized. Offer to help your parents create, and periodically update, files containing: • Details of all major possessions and relevant paperwork (such as property deeds, car registration, jewelry, etc.)

Money • Outstanding debts (mortgage documents, car loan papers, medical bills, etc.)

• All income sources, including Social Security, pension, 401(k), IRA, and personal savings.

• Bank accounts, credit cards, safe deposit box and insurance policies, including password, agent and beneficiary information.

• Will, trust, power of attorney, health care proxy and other documents showing how they want their affairs handled.

• Past income tax returns, and accountant or financial advisor contact information.

Budget. Chances are, your parents’ medical, insurance, food and other inflation-impacted bills have risen faster than their income – and recent stock market downturns certainly haven’t helped.

Your parents need to know exactly how much money is coming in every month and how much is going out. If they don’t already have a detailed budget, offer to help create one.

Consult an expert. A financial planner can help you and your parents understand the many tax, income and expense implications of retirement. If they don’t already have a planner, www.plannersearch.org is a good place to start your search.

Take care of these financial planning details now, so that when your parents need your help, you’ll be able to give them your full attention.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. Sign up for his free monthly e-Newsletter at www.practicalmoneyskills.com/newsletter.

Financial Focus®

Have Your Parents Made Their Financial Plans?

As an adult, you’re fortunate if you still have your parents. However, as they get older, you may well have to assist them in some key areas of their life. Specifically, they may need you to get involved in some of their financial issues. And if you do, you may need to focus on two areas: leaving a legacy and managing finances during retirement.

While initiating these conversations may not be easy for you, it is important, and you may find your parents more willing to discuss these issues than you had thought. In any case, if your parents haven’t already done so, encourage them to work with an estate-planning professional to develop the necessary legal documents, which may include wills, trusts and financial durable powers of attorney. These documents and services can be invaluable in helping individuals find efficient ways to pass assets from one generation to the next. An estate-planning attorney can identify which arrangements are the most appropriate for you and your family.

In your discussions on leaving a legacy, you may also want to bring up the topic of the beneficiary designations that may appear on your parents’ life insurance contracts and qualified plans, such as 401(k)s and IRAs. If the family picture has changed in recent years, and your parents had intended to change these designations, they should take action sooner rather than later.

While your parents need to deal with the legacy issue, they still may have plenty of years of living ahead of them — and they might need help managing their money during these years. For starters, you may want to have a discussion about their savings, investments, insurance and so on, and where these assets are held.

Are they kept in banks or investment companies? Do your parents have safe-deposit boxes? This knowledge could be valuable if you ever become involved in managing or distributing your parents’ resources.

Also, you might want to talk to your parents about the income sources they may be drawing from during their retirement. For example, how much are they taking out each year from their 401(k)s and IRAs? They don’t want to withdraw so much that they deplete their accounts too soon, but at the same time, they would no doubt like to maintain their standard of living in retirement. You may want to suggest to your parents that they evaluate their investment portfolio for both growth and income potential — because they will need both elements during a long retirement.

If your parents aren’t already working with a financial advisor, you may want to encourage them to do so.

Managing an investment portfolio during retirement is no easier than doing so during one’s working years — and there’s less time to overcome mistakes. A qualified financial advisor can help your parents choose the right mix of investments that can help meet their needs.

During the course of your lifetime, your parents have done a lot for you. You can help pay them back by doing whatever you can to assist them in managing their financial strategy.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones does not provide legal advice. Please consult a qualified legal advisor on all issues related to estate planning.

Patrick Chapman AAMS Financial Advisor 205 Jefferson St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-4900 • 800-441-4901

Abby E Barberg Financial Advisor 115 Olsen Blvd Ste 600 Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2610 • 877-286-2610

www.edwardjones.com

MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING

Member SIPC N02361 Z

ZEST / May 2011 7

Special:Aging-in-place

Home Sweet Home Aging-in-place is the newest trend in 50+ living

STAFF PHOTO BY KATIE WINTER

Aging-in-place is an option that incorporates universal housing design, safety and convenience equipment, and in home care services to keep older adults in their homes.

8 ZEST / May 2011

Special:Aging-in-place

By Katie Winter

T

here’s no place like home, and many older adults know it.

With declining home values and the climbing cost of health care, many 50-plus men and women are opting to age-in-place, never trading in the comforts of home for the world community care.

Aging-in-place is an option that combines universal housing design, the installation of safety and convenience equipment, and in-home care service that enables older adults to remain at home while ensuring their needs are met. Aging-in-place is an option that is best suited for people who are functional on all activities of daily living.

Choosing this option opens some homeowners up to a set of particular challenges, especially if their house is not suited for aging. For this group, now is the time to remodel or tweak potentially dangerous areas in the home – such as the kitchen and bathroom – to ensure they are easy to navigate and will not present safety hazards later in life.

“There are a few simple changes homeowners can implement over time – without breaking the bank – to make their homes secure for later years,” said Eric McRoberts, head of the American Institute of Architects’ Design for Aging committee. “And you don’t have to sacrifice style.”

An AARP survey in 2010 found 33 percent of adults ages 45 or older have made changes to their current home to stay there longer.

And a National Association of Home Builders survey done in fall 2009 found that such

design features as step-free entrances, levered door handles instead of knobs, electrical outlets higher from the floor and enough clearance in kitchens and bathrooms for wheelchairs were becoming commonplace in new home construction and remodeling jobs.

Eliminate hazards One of the most difficult parts of aging in place is determining what will be dangerous later in life.

The biggest step to take is to reconfigure your home so that all of your day-today living activities take place on the main floor of the home. If necessary, move laundry, bathrooms and the master bedroom to the house’s main floor. By eliminating the need for steps, tasks around the house will be much easier.

According to the National Safety Council, most falls in the home occur in the bathroom. Walking on wet floors, stepping in and out of the shower and rising from the toilet are all activities that can greatly increase the risk of a fall.

To make a bathroom more secure, consider putting in two or three attractive looking grab bars in the shower, lever handles on faucets, higher toilets with non-slam seats and lids and slip-resistant rugs.

Another modification to consider is installing a curbless shower, which eliminates the need to step over anything and can be rolled into if a wheelchair becomes necessary later.

Also, make sure the towel bars are secure, as people might grab onto towel bars if they feel they are about to fall or need to regain their balance.

Look down Another element of a

Universal Design projects have kept builders busy. house to examine is the flooring. Seek out areas where the floor surfaces are uneven or change from one material to another.

For example, if your home contains both carpet and hardwood flooring, install transition strips to tack down places where these surfaces meet. All flooring in the house should be smooth, non-glare and slip-resistant. Carpet should be low density, with a firm pad. Use color and/or texture contrast to indicate change in surface levels.

All within reach At older ages, certain motions, like reaching up or bending down, can put unnecessary stress on joints and cause injury. To

mitigate this risk, McRoberts suggests adopting universal design – small design adjustments and basic retrofits that make everything in a room easily accessible.

For example, turn cabinets into drawers. An architect can help in designing a facade that still looks like a cabinet door, but actually has shelves that slide out, eliminating the need to reach inside. Or consider raising or lowering shelves, eradicating the need to bend and stretch.

Installing a microwave oven at counter height or in wall and side-by-side refrigerator/freezer make preparing meals more convenient.

Similarly, putting appliances like front-loading

ZEST / May 2011 9

Special:Aging-in-place washers and dryers on one, easy-to-reach level will reduce risks. The washing machine and dryer should be raised 12 to 15 inches above the floor.

Improving lighting and access to outlets make moving around the house easier too. Add recessed fixtures in common areas and hallways. Lower light switches and thermostats; raise outlets.

A helping hand When the time comes to implement these modifications, consider hiring a Certified Aging in Place specialists to do the work.

CAPS certified professionals are trained on the unique needs of older adults. They know how to modify homes for aging and address the most common barriers in a home.

To make a bathroom more secure, consider putting in two or three grab bars in the shower.

To locate a CAPS professional in the area, visit the NAHB website, www.nahb.org.

The upside

The traditional options for long-term care, such as nursing homes and assisted-living facilities, require a larger monetary investment and tend to uproot

residents from their homes and communities.

University of Missouri researchers claim they have found that aging-inplace is less expensive and provides better health outcomes.

Marilyn Rantz, professor in the Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri said “aging-in place enables most older adults to remain in the same environment and receive supportive health services as needed.

“With this type of care, most people wouldn’t need to relocate to nursing homes,” she said.

In a four-year analysis of aging-in-place, the total care costs for residents were thousands less than traditional care options.

Costs for living and health care never approached the

Transform an existing tub into a shower!

Make the bathroom safer by converting your bathtub into an easily accessible shower unit.

• • • •

Bathtub Refinishing & Repair Convert Existing Tubs to Whirlpools Grab Bar Installation Shower & Bath Slip Resistant Floor Texturing

KIMBALL • 320-398-2015

ST. CLOUD 320-257-0630

BEFORE

www.surfacespecialists.com 10 ZEST / May 2011

AFTER

N02433 Z

Serving Minnesota since 1979

Special:Aging-in-place costs for nursing homes and assisted-living services.

Moving to a typical assisted living facility can cost between $2,000 and $5,000 each year in Minnesota. The cost to widen the bathroom door, put in safety bars and a roll-in shower would typically cost about $6,000 to $8,000, but it’s a one-time expense.

The National Association of Home Builders predicts that aging-in-place remodeling already is a $20 billion- to $25-billion-a-year business, about 10 percent of the total home improvement market.

In addition, aging-inplace residents have improved mental and physical health outcomes, claims authors Paul and Lori Hogan in their book,

“Stages of Senior Care.” In it, the Hogans list the following aging-in-place benefits: • Aging-in-place maintains a familiar environment for older adults so that they can continue to live in their own surroundings without making a drastic change.

• It fosters community continuity, which means seniors can continue to frequent their usual grocery store, drugstore or other places in which they are comfortable shopping and asking for help.

• It maintains valuable social networks, often keeping contact with neighbors and friends nearby.

• It has a way of strengthening family and family ties.

• It promotes physical

We are DEDICATED to Caring.

and mental well-being, just be continuing to keep the senior in a home where they often have raised their family.

Decisions, decisions Aging in place is not the only option for care later in life and it is not necessarily right for everyone. Some drawbacks to think about are: • There is a low to moderate investment in home equipment and home modifications, but the cost can be high depending upon the extent and nature of modifications performed.

• Lead time may be weeks for determining need, finding a contractor, and completing modifications for individual home remodels outside a village environment.

Trusted Care Keeps You Safe at Home

Skilled Nursing Care Occupational Therapy Foot Care

We’ll help you live independently without changing your lifestyle.

What can you expect from our caregivers?

Physical Therapy

® ® ® ® ®

Medication

Assistance SpeechTherapy IV Infusion Therapy PCA Home Health Aide

Medicaid

Southern Minnesota Home Care

Medicare Private Insurance

320-693-2580

www.divinehomecare.com

1020 Hwy. 7 W., Suite D, Hutchinson N02676 Z

Private Pay

A Compassionate Heart Trustworthiness and Reliability Experience and Training Insured and Bonded Guaranteed Compatibility

Companionship and home help — from day-to-day activities to occasional assistance. Call today for a free consultation to discuss our wide variety of services.

Divine Home Care, Inc. County Programs

• Without home modification, structural barriers in the home may present challenges and contribute to falls and injuries.

• Seniors may be resistant to home modifications and the installation of helpful technology.

• More pressure and expectations are placed on caregivers.

• Costs of home care professionals or nurses may need to be covered.

• Even after home modifications an individual may still need nursing home care in the future.

It important to have a discussion with family and even your doctor to determine what is best. The key is to start planning early, be thorough, involve family in the process and revisit the plan regularly.

320-587-0118 Insured and Bonded N02158 Z

ZEST / May 2011 11

Special:Aging-in-place

Walk-in to safety Jean Holm turned her tub into a shower and loves the convenience

STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

Jean Holm is perfectly happy in her rural Dassel home thanks to a couple of bathroom upgrades.

Regional Eye Center A WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CARE IN HUTCHINSON

Open Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

1st and 3rd Saturdays Labor Day through Memorial Day: 8:30 a.m.–12 Noon

Steve Queenan ABO/NCLE

12 ZEST / May 2011

Michael P. Merck, M.D.

Christopher R. Wallyn, D.O.

It is estimated that 14 million Americans are visually impaired. This number is expected to increase as our nation ages and age related diseases become more prevalent. Many blinding eye diseases have no signs or symptoms, so many people do not realize anything is wrong with their vision until it is too late.

Early detection and proper treatment can help save your sight.

Here are some simple things you can do to protect your vision...

1. Have a comprehensive dialated eye exam 2. Know your family’s eye health history 3. Eat right to protect your sight 4. Maintain a healthy weight 5. Wear protective eyewear 6. Quit smoking or never start 7. Be cool and wear your shades 8. Give your eyes a rest with computer work 9. Clean your hands and your contact lenses properly 10. Practice workplace eye safety

1455 Montreal St. SE (Next to Menards) 320-587-6308 • 800-955-6336

Amy J. Nyquist, O.D.

May Is Healthy Vision Month

Allan D. Wortz, O.D.

At Regional Eye Center, our doctors can go over these things in more detail to protect your vision.

N02351 Z

Special:Aging-in-place

By Katie Winter

F

or a few years now Jean Holm’s right knee has been acting up.

The joint does not bend as effortlessly or as comfortably as it once did, making everyday tasks such as stepping in and out of the shower more challenging for her.

So a few months ago, she decided to do something about it. She hired a company to fit her bathroom with safety features that make it more user-friendly.

Holm’s bathtub was converted into a walk-in shower. The company she hired removed a section of the bathtub wall, creating a lower wall height for easier access into and out of the bathtub. Holm now only has a few inches to step over to enter the shower.

“Its so much easier if you can just walk-in,” Holm said. “Most everybody can step over that little bit. So it’s worked out very well. I’ve just been

very pleased with it.”

Originally, Holm had planned on removing her bathtub completely and replacing it with a shower stall. After shopping for tile, getting price estimates and learning more about what was all involved in the project, Holm opted for the simpler and less expensive option of converting her bathtub.

“All in all this was the simplest way to go,” Holm said. “It would’ve had to be Sheetrocked, tiles put in and a drain would need to be remodeled. It was cheaper than to rip it all out and start over again.”

Every year, millions of older adults suffer a fall in their home. Many of these accidents are the result of obstacles in the home. According to the CDC, each year, one in every three adults age 65 or older suffers a fall. In 2009, 2.2 million nonfatal fall injuries among older adults were treated in emergency departments. At least one-third of all falls in the elderly involve environmental hazards in the home.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Holm had little desire in becoming part of those statistics. Besides the changes to her bathtub, Holm also had a grab bar installed on the shower wall. The bar gives her a solid fixture to grasp so she can keep her balance better. It also makes her feel more confident stepping in and out of the shower. The peace of mind this brings is an added bonus for Holm.

Holm’s concerns are common among her age group. Many 50-plus men and women worry about losing the ability to live safely and comfortably in their own homes, especially those like Holm who live alone. Holm though has taken steps to protect her independence.

Along with an easier-to-use bathroom, she had hardwood floors installed and her sunroom is plumbed and wired for a washer and dryer. For the time being the appliances are still in Holm’s basement, but they can be easily installed upstairs when it’s necessary.

Continued on page 15

Monuments and More!

Life is full of opportunities just waiting to be explored, discovered and shared. Are you hearing all the beautiful sounds of Summer?

• Birds Chirping • Rivers Flowing • Children Laughing DON’T MISS OUT - CALL NOW! Our modern digital hearing aids are capable of reducing bothersome background noises and minimize irritating wind noise to provide a natural and comfortable hearing experience when enjoying fellowship with others and nature itself.

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE NO-OBLIGATION HEARING EVALUATION. If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.

We still make house calls!

Litchfield Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center 338 U.S. Hwy. 12, Suite 103 Litchfield, MN

100 Washington Ave. E., Hutchinson, MN 55350

Darwin Monument

Glencoe Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center

320-693-5902 East Highway 12, Darwin, MN darwinmonument.com

624 13th St., Suite 102, Glencoe, MN 55336

320-864-2055 or 1-800-732-3730

N-02641

320-234-6825 or 1-866-361-3036

02075

320-593-0885 or 1-800-447-7244

Hutchinson Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center

ZEST / May 2011 13

Special:Aging-in-place (Left) Jean Holm hired a company to create step-through access to her bathtub and shower. Before the project, Holm’s bathroom contained a regular bathtub and shower combination.

(Right) After the procedure, which involved a technician removing a section of the bathtub wall and rebuilding a lower wall, Holm has easier access to her shower.

The Community of Lakeridge

Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day:

10% Off Parts

and

Labor

in our Service Department.

Enjoy free coffee and cookies!

Affordable 2 bedroom, 2 bath condos with heated garages.

Service Manager Jeremy Crosby. Service Writer DeWayne Ingebretson.

Service Writer Beth Wanous. Body Shop Manager Alan Olson.

For independent adults 55 years and better.

Certified Service We Service ALL Makes and Models!

We’ll take the time to explain all services done on your vehicle—we’re happy to answer any questions.

HOMETOWN REALTY, INC.

A car dealer for the times in Hutchinson

N02666 Z

130 Washington Avenue E., Hutchinson, MN 55350

(320) 587-6115

www.hometownmn.com

14 ZEST / May 2011

• Sales • Service • Body Shop • Parts

525 Hwy. 7 East Hutchinson 320-587-2240 www.valleyhutchinson.com N02160 Z

Special:Aging-in-place Continued from page 13 “I’m very active and I’m very independent,” Holm said.

“As long as I have this place, (I’ll stay). It’s small and serves its purpose very well. If I need I can move my washer and dryer up, then I’m all set.”

While the conveniences of her home make life easier, it is the support network of family and friends that afford Holm her independence. She has two sons who live near by and who check in on her regularly.

“They take care of me,” Holm said. “They keep my driveways open and do odds and ends stuff.

“I have two St. Bernard dogs,” Holm continued. “They keep track if a strange car comes they go down and check it out. So it’s worked out well.”

The possibility of one day moving in with family or to an assisted living facility has crossed Holm’s mind. She is not completely averse to the idea, but she would like to put it off for as long as possible.

If the time comes and I have to move, I will,” Holm said, “but as of present I have no intentions. I like the independence. I can come and go as I please. I really like that.”

In the future, Holm may need to make a few more changes to her house. The success of her bathroom upgrades makes her confident that future changes will be equally rewarding.

“I’d absolutely recommended it,” Holm said. “I had some friends who I told should come see my bathroom because they couldn’t imagine what I’d done. It’s very nice. I’ve been very satisfied with it.”

FACT: Bathroom safety upgrades accounted for more than 60 percent of all remodeling projects in 2008. Installing grab bars led the way at 78 percent and curbless showers came in third at 60 percent.

– National Association of Home Builders

ZEST / May 2011 15

News

Course offers tips for investing for retirement University of Minnesota Extension has developed a new online course that teaches the basics about saving and investing for retirement. “Invest Now: Money in Retirement” is an inexpensive, online course designed to help make sense of investments and retirement.

The online course, which costs $25, will give people the basic education they need to start investing for their future. Some of the topics the course will cover include: • Selecting the best investments for you • Finding money to invest • Employer Retirement Plans and IRAs • Investment decision criteria • Understanding Social Security Some people save for retirement by contributing to employer-sponsored retirement plans such as 401k and/or personal retirement plans such as IRAs. Sharon Danes, an Extension family economist who led the course development said, “The question many people

Excellence

in hearing care

Every Day!

Tom Eggimann

Karl Benson

Sharon Rolander

Owner/Hearing Instrument Specialist

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Office Manager

HUTCH HEARING AID

LITCHFIELD HEARING AID

903 Hwy. 15 S., Hutchinson

711 E. Depot St. (Hwy. 12), Litchfield

320-587-7557

(Frontage Road next to The Coffee Company)

320-593-0333

1-800-628-9165 • hutchhearing.com

16 ZEST / May 2011

N02159 ZEST

Everyday Services: ® Hearing evaluations — no charge, no pressure ® Hearing aid service — all brands ® New hearing aids in all price ranges ® Satisfaction or your money back — more than 90% success rate

have is, ‘Am I saving enough now to live the same lifestyle that I am currently living?’”

The answer to that question is that they might not be saving enough, according to data from a 2010 Employee Benefit Research Institute study on retirement readiness.

That study found that almost 45 percent of Generation Xers (age 36-45) are at risk of not having sufficient retirement income to pay for “basic” retirement expenditures, as well as uninsured health care costs. That risk increased for Early Boomers (age 56-62) of whom nearly one-half were found to be at risk. Approximately 44 percent of Late Boomers (age 46-55) appeared to be at risk.

“Income levels are not the only reason people don’t save,” said Danes. “Some people say that one of the deterrents to saving and investing for retirement is their lack of knowledge about how to do it.”

Visit www.extension.umn.edu/FinancialSecurity/investnow to learn more.

Medicare Answers

What does Medicare cover Dear Marci, I’m turning 65 in a few months and I’ll be signing up for Medicare. I know that Original Medicare has copays and deductibles. How would a Medigap plan help me pay those costs?

— Austin Dear Austin, Medigap plans are supplemental insurance policies you can buy to help cover some of the costs you have to pay if you have Original Medicare. If you don’t have other insurance coverage to help pay your Medicare costs, such as retiree insurance, you might want to think about getting a Medigap.

There are currently 10 different Medigap plans you can buy: A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M and N. The plans are standardized. This means all plan A’s cover the same benefits no matter which insurance company you get the plan from.

Medigap rules changed in June 2010. Plans sold before June 2010 have slightly different benefits than the plans on the market now. Two new plans have also been added.

These are plans M and N. All Medigap plans sold starting

Now Featuring

June 1, 2010 must cover: • Hospital copay: This is the amount you must pay each day during an inpatient hospital stay.

• 365 additional hospital days beyond what Original Medicare covers • Part or all of the coinsurance for Part B covered services: The Part B coinsurance is the amount you pay for outpatient services such as doctor visits, x-rays and lab tests.

• Hospice coinsurances: The hospice coinsurance is 5 percent of the cost of inpatient respite care.

Some Medigap plans also cover: • Part B deductible • Hospital deductible • Skilled nursing facility coinsurance • Emergency care outside of the U.S. Not all Medigap plans are available in all areas.

Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin have their own Medigap systems. Call your state insurance department to find out which plans are available in your area.

— Marci

Memory Care • 1 or 2 BR Apartments • Social Activities • Medication Administration • Meal Plan • 24-hr Staffing • All Utilities • Housekeeping and Laundry Services

Independence. Community. Security.

For information or to arrange a tour, call Berit Spors at 320-234-0865

Oaks & Pines

N02139 Z

The Senior Community of Hutchinson

ZEST / May 2011 17

Travel

South Dakota rich in history and mystery T

he Black Hills of South Dakota are rich with variety. Nearby Rapid City is a vacation destination with something for everyone. The city offers a variety of shopping, dining, historical attractions and outdoor recreation.

It is also only 25 miles from one of America’s most iconic landmarks – Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Also nearby are the Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park and much more.

For tourists up for adventure, they can try their hand at fly fishing, rock climbing, ATV riding, hiking or biking along the 109-mile Mickelson Trail. Then there is the option of taking a buffalo safari jeep ride through Custer State Park where 1,300 bison roam the 71,000 acre park.

R I L E Y ’S

18 ZEST / May 2011

N02669 Z

New York City & Washington, DC .............June 15 – 26 Black Hills & Medora ...............................June 27 – 30 Canadian Rockies .......................................July 7 – 15 Alaska Fly-back .........................................July 14 – 30 Nova Scotia......................................July 21 – August 6 Alaska Direct ............................................August 1 - 8 Folklorama ...............................................August 6 – 9 Mississippi River Cruise .........................August 15 - 18 Mackinac Island ...................................August 21 - 25 Yellowstone National Park Tour ............August 24 – 29 Pacific Northwest ..............................September 3 – 19 New York City ..................................September 6 – 15

2011 MN Twins Games

208 N 12th St. Box 346 Kerkhoven MN 56252 320-264-2987 1-800-525-0730 www.rustadtours.com info@rustadtours.com

April 28 ..............Tampa Bay May 25 .....................Seattle June 16 ..Chicago White Sox July 20 .................Cleveland August 10 .................Boston August 21 New York Yankees September 17 ......Cleveland September 22 ...........Seattle

N02650 Z

Pella Tulip Fest..............................................................May 5-7 Music Cities..................................................................May 9-17 Cape Cod ...................................................................May 20-28 Black Hills...................................................................June 11-14 Yellowstone/Tetons..............................................June 15-21 Toronto & Niagara Falls ....................................June 22-29 New York, New York ....................................June 23-July 1 Alaska Northbound ...............................................July 14-30 Canadian Rockies ...................................................July 15-23 Alaska Fishing Adventure............July or August dates 8 Day Alaska Circle...............................................July 16-23 11 Day Alaska Explorer.......................................July 20-30 Oregon/California.............................................August 17-28 Shipshewana .................................................September 6-10 Nova Scotia .................................................September 13-26 Mackinac Island........................................September 15-18 New England States.............September 28-October 11

1-800-288-8246 www.rileytours.com

Crazy Horse Memorial Dedicated to the Lakota Sioux leader who triumphed over Custer at Little Big Horn, this memorial will one day be the world’s largest sculpture. Equipped with only a sledge hammer, a single-jack drill bit and a box of dynamite, Boston-born sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski went to

Rustad Tours 2011 Tour Schedule

Travel Easy Tours

Call for pick ups in your area

Mount Rushmore National Memorial This year marks the 70th anniversary of this “Shrine to Democracy” and vacation “must-see.” The faces of four American presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln—are carved from a granite mountainside high above the treetops of the Black Hills. Carving took 14 years to complete and cost $1 million.

Travel

The Badlands of South Dakota offer staggering and dramatic views. The area is a dream for sightseers, hikers and adventurers. work on June 3, 1948, creating his 563-by 641-foot sculpture of an Indian man atop a spirited warhorse. This would later be called Crazy Horse Memorial. Sixty years on, work still continues on the world’s largest sculpture.

The dimensions are staggering. The mountain-sized statue is as long as a cruise ship and taller than 60 stories.

Badlands National Park Badlands National Park is a place of beauty, serenity and refuge. From the moment visitors enter the park, they enter a landscape of incredible natural beauty where 500,000 years of erosion have created fantastic shapes in the soft rock. The Badlands Loop Road winds through a maze of canyons, buttes and spires, with several trails and scenic overlooks. Past these features is the wilderness area, a wind-swept prairie that is home to herds of wild bison and bighorn sheep. Visitors are invited to walk as far as they like into this free and serene environment, or drive to wildlife viewing areas including a prairie dog town. Those who stay overnight can enjoy a beautiful sunset, sunrise and starry night sky.

Rapid City Rapid City has plenty of attractions and sites that are off-the-beaten path. Visitors will discover interesting and quirky sites throughout the city.

• The Chapel in the Hills: Tucked in the foothills at

the western edge of Rapid City, the Stavkirke is a replica of the 830-year-old Borgund Church in Norway. The Chapel in the Hills is a free attraction and is open until dusk. Worship services are conducted nightly in the summer. The church features intricate wood carvings, strange dragon heads and pegged construction that make it as beautiful as it is unusual.

• Wall Drug: Just 50 miles east of Rapid City on Interstate 90, this site is a wacky must-stop for road trippers on their way to or from Rapid City. The 76,000square-foot attraction includes photo props, interactive displays, shops and food. Wall Drug got its start during the Great Depression when wise entrepreneurs offered free ice water to thirsty travelers.

• Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway: Rapid City is a base camp for driving in and around the Black Hills area. Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway winds in front of Mount Rushmore through the pigtail bridges of Iron Mountain Road and the granite spires of the Needles. Nemo Road runs alongside pine forests, meadows and mountain creeks and joins with Highway 385 leading to the historic mining town of Deadwood.

• Dahl Arts Center: Check out a 200-foot canvas mural depicting 200 years of American history. A year is a lot to cover in 12 inches, but the mural at the Dahl Arts Center manages the task.

For more information, visit www.travelsd.com.

ZEST / May 2011 19

Wellness

Osteoporosis: Know the facts for healthy bones M

ost adults recall a time or times when their mothers insisted they drink their milk. Though it might not have been preferred at the time, adults might now recognize Mom was doing her best to help her kids build and maintain strong bones.

Those who didn’t listen to Mom might find themselves among the 44 million Americans whom the National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates live with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of unexpected fractures.

But why milk? While milk alone won’t prevent osteoporosis, dairy products like milk are rich in calcium, an essential nutrient for building and maintaining strong bones. In addition, getting an early start is especially important, as the NOF notes that roughly 85 percent to 90 percent of adult bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls and age 20 in boys.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is often mistaken as a condition that only affects little old ladies. While osteoporosis is most common in older women, anyone can develop it. As many as half of all women and a quarter of men older than 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis, which many men and women are not even aware they have until that initial injury occurs.

What happens when a person has osteoporosis?

When discussing osteoporosis, it’s best to first discuss osteopenia, a silent condition the precedes osteoporosis, often robbing bones of their strength. Osteopenia is related to bone mineral density, which measures the levels of minerals in the bones. When BMD levels are low, a person is said to have osteopenia, which can, and often does, gradually become osteoporosis.

When a person has fractured a bone, he or she might already have osteoporosis. When osteoporosis has established itself, the bones have weakened and become thin and are highly susceptible to fracture. For example, it's not impossible for a person with osteoporosis to lift a bag of groceries and break a bone or suffer a collapsed vertebra in the back. Such a task might otherwise seem trivial, but to a person with osteoporosis, no physical activity is without risk.

Can osteoporosis be prevented?

Fortunately, osteoporosis and any resulting fractures can often be prevented. As previously mentioned, thanks to bone mass development it’s important for parents to encourage kids to increase the amount of calcium in their diet. Milk and dairy products, preferably low fat versions;

20 ZEST / May 2011

A bone-density test uses special X-rays to measure bone minerals.The test is a simple way for a doctor to diagnosis osteoporosis.

dark green leafy vegetables (including broccoli, collards and kale); and calcium-fortified orange juice are great sources of calcium.

Another way to prevent osteoporosis is to exercise regularly. Routine exercise helps strengthen bones and muscles and prevent bone loss. Weight-bearing exercises, which include walking, jogging and even dancing, done three to four times a week are the best for preventing osteoporosis. Strength and balance exercises also help avoid falling, decreasing the risk of broken bones.

Adequate calcium is necessary to prevent osteoporosis, but men and women must also make sure to include vitamin D in their diet. Vitamin D, which can be found in eggs, fatty fish (including salmon), cereal, and even some supplements, is necessary for the body to absorb calcium.

Research continues to indicate that people are simply not getting enough vitamin D. Discuss vitamin D with a physician to determine the best way to get more of it in your daily diet. A vitamin D supplement might be the most viable option.

To learn more about osteoporosis, visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation at www.nof.org.

Wellness

Get a bone-density test Dear Mayo Clinic: How do I know if my osteoporosis medication is working?

Answer: Treatments for osteoporosis reduce — but don’t completely eliminate — your chance of breaking a bone. So how can you judge whether your medication is having a positive effect? The most common approach is bone-density measurement. This test uses special X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are deposited into a segment of bone. If your treatment is working, the measurement should at least remain stable and may increase somewhat.

Bone-density tests are easy, fast and painless. Virtually no preparation is needed. In fact, some simple versions of the bone-density tests can be done at your local pharmacy or drugstore.

Most experts recommend getting a follow-up bone-density measurement one or two years after you start treatment. If your bone density is found to be falling significantly, your doctor may need to re-evaluate your response to the therapy.

In addition to medication, you should also be taking other steps to maintain bone health, such as taking calci-

DFORD A R B LAW OFFICE

Cokato Motors is your Friendly Hometown GM Dealership

16 Washington Ave. W., Suite 102, Hutchinson, MN 55350

Every WEDNESDAY is

(Entrance on the north side of the Hotel Jorgenson)

discount; excludes tires.

Fax: 320-587-5007

discount; excludes tires.

Curtis M. Bradford

COKATO MOTORS

14075 US Hwy. 12 SW — Cokato Ph. 320-286-2441 Toll Free: 888-485-4807 Christina Kilby Of Counsel

N02649 Z

*Free initial consultation.

Every FRIDAY is

SENIORdiscount DAY (60+) LADIES DAY on discount on 10% Parts & Labor 10% Parts & Labor *up to $30 maximum *up to $30 maximum

Office: 320-587-2720 Toll Free: 877-587-7177 • Real Estate • Wills • Estate Planning • Personal Injury/ Accidents* • Business and Corporate Law

um and vitamin D. It’s also important that you not smoke and that you avoid excessive use of alcohol. In addition, make low-impact, weight-bearing exercise, such as walking and strength training, a part of your daily routine.

Beyond that first follow-up bone-density measurement, you don’t really need further testing. But many women choose to continue the tests to reinforce the value of their treatment and feel positive about taking their medication.

That's better than stopping treatment after a year or two — which about half the women taking medication weekly for osteoporosis do.

These bone-density checks and talking with your doctor about the reasons for staying on your medication are reasonable ways to monitor and feel positive about your treatment. If you opt for regular bone-density testing, you’ll probably be tested every two years. The interval may increase to every three years or longer, depending on your bone density test results.

Blood and urine tests that measure markers of bone turnover also may be helpful in knowing if your osteoporosis medication is working as expected. Talk to your doctor about whether these tests are a good option for you.

— Bart Clarke, M.D., Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic

www.cokatomotorsales.com

GM CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS

www.BradfordAttorneyAtLaw.com • cmb@hutchtel.net

ZEST / May 2011 21

Cover Story

STAFF PHOTOS

About 700 members of the “Pickle Patch” packed into the Hutchinson Mall for Wally Pikal’s 84th birthday party. Pikal entertained the gathered with a song on his trumpet.

A salute to Wally Community cheers Wally Pikal’s years of music and service 22 ZEST / May 2011

Cover Story

By Kay Johnson and Katie Winter

A

ll you have to do is mention his name — Wally Pikal — and you’re guaranteed to attract a

crowd.

KDUZ radio recently recognized the local musician at the Hutchinson Mall. The celebration paid homage to the 45th anniversary of Pikal’s radio program, “The Pikal Patch,” and his 84th birthday.

“I think it’s a nice idea,” Pikal said.

“I’ve been in music all my life with the band, the store, the radio station and shows. When you put it all together, it was a nice life being a musician working all these things.”

“Wally is deserving because he’s one of the finest musical people in the state of Minnesota,” said Lester Schuft, KDUZ account executive and fellow musician. “He has proved himself and his musical ability for I don’t even know how long.”

Mike Glieden, left, handed Wally Pikal a birthday card at Pikal’s 84th birthday party at the Hutchinson Mall recently.

A career in music Pikal’s “happy music” — traditional German polka songs — have been part of the local music tradition since he played his first professional job as a senior in high school with the Jerry Dostal Band.

A trumpet player, Pikal made a name for himself when he learned to play two trumpets and eventually three at the same time.

Pikal’s performance playing two trumpets while jumping on a pogo stick was such a novelty that it earned him a spot on Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show.”

Pikal launched his own band, Wally Pikal & the Dill Pickles, in 1950. The seven-piece band toured throughout the Upper Midwest for more than 30 years.

In 1978, Bruce Bradley and Wally Pikal formed the group, the Bradleys.

They traveled the Midwest.

This multi-talent launched “The Pikal Patch” radio show in the 1960s.

He also opened his own music store

Wally Pikal launched his own band,Wally Pikal & the Dill Pickles, in 1950.The sevenpiece band toured throughout the Upper Midwest for more than 30 years.

ZEST / May 2011 23

Cover Story (Below) Wally Pikal ability to play two trumpets while jumping on a pogo stick earned him a spot on Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show.”

For 45 years,Wally Pikal has broadcast “The Pikal Patch,” a radio program that airs on Friday mornings.

along Main Street in downtown Hutchinson in 1964, which he juggled with music gigs — about 120 dates a year.

Pikal’s tour schedule over the years has put him on stage at the Minnesota State Fair, several county fairs, Europe and Hawaii. Closer to home, he has played weddings, polka festvals and Hutchinson’s Music in the Park.

In 1999, Pikal was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in New Ulm. Although Pikal claims he’s retired, he continues his popular radio program, “The Pikal Patch,” airing at 9:05 a.m. Friday mornings, plus he can be found playing solo or with his band at venues such as the McLeod

24 ZEST / May 2011

Pikal is an original member of the Hutchinson Memorial Rifle Squad and continues to serve at local veterans’ funerals and play “Taps” at veterans events.

many of whom have been dancing along to Pikal’s music for decades, took to the dance floor.

KDUZ radio treated the crowd with hot dogs and a live episode of Pikal’s radio show.

“I appreciated all the people that came,“ Pikal said. “I heard there was a traffic jam after the show was done.”

Party time

Not slowing down

On the day of the celebration, about 700 members of the “Pickle Patch” packed into the Hutchinson Mall to send happy birthday wishes to Pikal on the occasion of his 84th birthday.

Pikal’s band, composed of band members from the past and present, performed several songs. Guests,

Pikal will have a full schedule in the coming months as summer music events heat up. Many communities already have Pikal written on their calendars for upcoming fairs, festivals and parties. Pikal still enjoys entertaining audiences and hopes to continue for as long as possible.

County Fair, Meeker County Fair and Jackpot Junction.

In memory

Out and About

A church in miniature form Sisters Mary Kielty, Sharon Lindquist and Pat Vick, and their brother Jim “Buck” Shelley remember the original St. John’s Catholic Church in Darwin with fondness.Their memories prompted them to have a replica of the church built for display at the Twine Ball Museum in Darwin. Built in 1878, St. John’s was the center of many Darwin families’ faith lives until it was replaced by a new building in 1959.

A place to call home

Apartments for seniors 55 and older

?

Are you at least 55 Retired or still working, but tired of shoveling snow and doing house maintenance and repairs

?

?

Rather have time for fun stuff

Call for a tour and learn how easy life can be living in Village Cooperative of Hutchinson.

There is nothing to do but move in, relax and enjoy!

1300 Sherwood St. S.E., Hutchinson 320-234-7761 mornings www.realifeinc.com www.villagecoopofhutchinson.blogspot.com

N02167 ZEST

Village Cooperative

ZEST / May 2011 25

Comfort Foods

Try breakfast for dinner Southwestern Scramble

Hearty Sausage Mini Quiches

From Nestlé Carnation Milks

From Jimmy Dean Foods

Ingredients: • 8 large eggs, well-beaten • 2/3 cup (5 fluid-ounce can) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Milk • 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided • 2 tablespoons diced green chiles • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper • Nonstick cooking spray • 2 medium or 3 small corn tortillas, cut into thin strips • Mild salsa, chopped avocado and/or sliced green onions (optional) • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Ingredients: • 1 package Regular Flavor Jimmy Dean Pork Sausage, cooked, crumbled and drained • 8 eggs, lightly beaten • 1/4 cup milk or water • 1/2 to 1 cup shredded Cheddar, mozzarella or provolone cheese • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter • 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion • 1/2 cup diced sweet red pepper (optional) • 1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms or yellow squash (optional) • 1 cup frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes or diced, prebaked red potatoes (optional) • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation 1. Combine eggs, evaporated milk, 1/2 cup cheese, chiles and black pepper in medium bowl.

2. Spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Place tortilla strips in skillet and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until strips are lightly browned.

3. Pour egg mixture into skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until eggs are cooked. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Top with salsa, avocado and/or green onions, if desired. Serve along with beans. Makes 4 servings

Breakfast Pizza From Pace Foods Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon butter • 1/4 cup chopped onion • 1/4 cup chopped green pepper • 1/4 cup chopped Canadian bacon • 1 (12-inch) prepared pizza crust • 8 eggs, beaten • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 3/4 cup Pace Picante sauce • 2 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup) • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves Preparation: 1. Heat oven to 400°F. 2. Heat butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.

Add onion, pepper and bacon, and cook until vegetables are tender.

3. Place pizza crust onto a pizza pan or baking sheet.

Place in oven to warm.

4. Stir eggs and black pepper into skillet. Cook and stir until eggs are set. Spoon egg mixture onto pizza crust. Top with picante sauce. Sprinkle with cheese.

5. Bake for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with cilantro. Cut pizza into 6 slices.

26 ZEST / May 2011

Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. In large mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk or water, cheese, salt and pepper; set aside.

3. Heat olive oil or butter in large skillet; sauté onions and any optional vegetables desired until vegetables are tender. Add vegetables and sausage to egg mixture; stir.

4. Place 12 foil baking cups into cupcake pan. Distribute sausage and egg mixture evenly into baking cups.

5. Bake 22 minutes or until eggs are set. Remove from oven. Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired. Makes 12 cupcake-size servings

Bring the family together with a springtime brunch featuring these sausage mini quiches.

Comfort Foods *Correction: In the April issue of Zest, we mistakenly added an ingredient in the Apple Raisin Bread Pudding recipe. Here is the corrected version:

Apple Raisin Bread Pudding From Marge Berg, Gibbon Ingredients: • 4 cups white bread cubes buttered • 1 1/2 cup chopped apples • 1 cup raisins • 2 large eggs, beaten well • 1/2 cup apple juice • 1 12 oz. can evaporated milk • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon • 1 jar caramel ice cream topping (optional) Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 11x7 baking dish.

2. Combine bread cubes, apples and raisins in bowl.

4. Beat eggs in medium bowl. Stir in milk and apple juice.

5. Pour egg mixture over bread cubes, pressing bread into mixture, let stand 10 minutes.

7. Pour into prepared dish. Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over all.

8. Bake 40 to 45 minutes, until set. Serve warm with caramel ice cream topping if preferred. Otherwise it is scrumptious plain, too.

Exceptional SENIOR LIVING

EVERGREEN APARTMENTS Now Taking Applications

Senior Community Your life can be carefree at a price you can afford.

5Rental Assistance available 5 Social Activities 5Community lounge/kitchen 5 Caring Staff 5Spacious 1 Bedroom Apts.

5Medical emergency call buttons 5Walking distance to shopping and restaurants Call for your personal tour today

N02638 ZEST

(62+/Handicap or Disabled)

320-587-9432 ZEST / May 2011 27

Puzzles

Prairie Senior Cottages

When a comfortable, stress-free environment is combined with trained caregivers, people with Alzheimer’s Disease or related memory disorders experience a better quality of life.

Prairie Senior Cottages features • 24-Hour On-site Caregivers • Secured Building • Nutritious Family Style Meals • Specialized Programming • RN Supervision & Case Management • Medication Supervision • Daily Personal Hygiene • Personal Laundry • Housekeeping • Personal Transportation • Professional Management

Prairie Senior Cottages, LLC

For more information, call John Peterson.

Hutchinson: 320-587-5508 Alexandria: 320-763-8244 Willmar: 320-235-6022 New Ulm: 507-359-3420 www.prairieseniorcottages.com

28 ZEST / May 2011

N02183

Built on Preserving Dignity

Puzzles

All answers on page 31

FREE

Zest is now offering FREE private party classified to area residents. Sell your used items with these 30-word ads!

Item up to $400:

FREE!

Item up to $800: $4.95 Item up to $1,600: $9.95 Item up to $2,400: $14.95

My Ad: ___________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ ZEST CLASSIFIED AD COUPON

Zest Classified Ad Form

Price must be listed in ad. Excludes pets.

_________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Address___________________________________________ Daytime Phone _____________________________________

ZesT 36 Washington Ave. W. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5000 Fax 320-587-6104

Item over $2,400: $19.95 Zest CLASS

ZEST / May 2011 29

Last Word

Grief:You are not alone

By Robert Hantge

W

e are very fortunate in central Minnesota that we have many caring resources available for those seeking support following the death of a loved one. Besides the resources of our local funeral chapels, we have caring local hospice groups that have annual grief support groups, we have a local chapter of Compassionate Friends that specializes in the death of children, we have local health care professionals and our local clergy; all providing care and compassion to those suffering the loss of a loved one.

Grief can be defined many ways, but basically it’s the emotional reaction to a loss. We suffer many losses throughout our life, but none stronger than the loss of a loved one at death. Today psychologists and counselors have taken modern variations of Dr. Elisabeth KublerRoss’s 1970’s Five Stages of Grief, to many losses within the larger loss of a loved one. It’s not just the loss of a hus-

The happiest day of the month is when delivery of the fresh, new issue of ZEST arrives in mailboxes and on newsstands. Home delivery subscriptions are available for $18 per year.

Subscribers to the Independent Review or Leader can receive ZEST for only $10 per year.

N02255

“The mail’s here!”

Subscribe to ZEST Name ____________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City ____________________State ______Zip____________ Mail this form and your $18 or $10 check to ZEST ZEST OR 36 Washington Ave. W. P.O. Box 921 TO Hutchinson, MN 55350 Litchfield, MN 55355

30 ZEST / May 2011

band; it’s the loss of someone to take care of the car, the loss of someone who handled specific chores, the loss of companionship, the loss of a co-parent, financial loss, the loss of one’s past and future identity and on and on. I’ve always believed each person’s grief is unique to themselves and respectively their needs in grieving are also unique.

Grieving a loss is as important as breathing. People need to grieve, and we need to create an environment that allows healthy grieving. Thankfully our society has evolved to create a healthier environment. It wasn’t that many years ago that the grieving were shunned away, and people weren’t given the care they needed.

The largest myth is that the grieving should “get over it” by now. The truth is, the grieving never “get over it” – they learn to live with their loss, and the loss becomes part of their life moving forward.

Seeking assistance in the grieving process has also changed for the better over the years. Seeking assistance 50 years ago was seen as a sign of weakness.

Thankfully, again, it is now as noble as seeking assistance for any other healthrelated issue. We have wonderful counselors and doctors available for those needing professional assistance.

McLeod County also has a local grief support group called Grief Recovery Friends that has been in Local grief support existence for 25 years. This grief support group was groups can help you deal started by several local famwith a loss. ilies suffering a loss and looking for someplace to share their feelings. Since they couldn’t find anything – they started their own grief support group. Grief Recovery Friends meets monthly on the second Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the Oakland Chapel at the Oakland Cemetery in Hutchinson. There are no fees, and it is open to anyone suffering the loss of a loved one.

Most importantly, you’re not alone. Whether you seek professional assistance from a healthcare provider, hospice support group or grief support group, there are many resources available in our communities.

Robert Hantge is the funeral director at Hantge Funeral Chapels.

Puzzle Answers

Cork board

Burley Fireplace & Spa

N02639 Z

In the Hu tchinson M all 1060 Hwy . 15 Hutchinso n, MN 553 50 Phone: 320 -292-9947 tim@burley fireplace.com www.burley fireplace.com

ME CO Olson & Phil O l ’T HUG • “DON l comedy by Pau A musica 8, 21-24, 2011 -1 ” June 15 AMILY THE F oney UNS IN • “IT R farce by Ray Co 1 1 A British -13, 16-19, 20 10 ” August L U BOUNTIF on Foote IP TO • “A TR s drama by Hort , 2011 ! s w o es -24 Sh A timel 4-17, 21 r All r3single tickeset at mber 1 te e r p v $39 1fo e u o o S y % 5 ke -4 pm Saves you can maNOW! ay 9 am 5-9500 s ay-Frid 3 d -2 n 0 o 2 price &reservation M 3 m 1• rs: N 5620 eatre.co ice Hou Box Off t., Willmar, M ww.thebarnth S w • th 4 m o 321 SW arntheatre.c eb info@th

Z N02646

Sea

ZesT

Shari Forsman Advertising Representative (320) 234-4171 sales@crowriverpress.com

Katie Winter Reporter (320) 693-3266 or (320) 234-4172 winter@independentreview.net or winter@hutchinsonleader.com

N02643p Z

011 SONle2now!

A E S b ER ets availa SUMsM FAIR” on tick UNTY lson

ZEST / May 2011 31

Reclaim your spring A new approach to joint replacement can put the spring back in your step — and in your life.

Enhanced experience.

Shorter hospital stays.

Faster recovery times.

The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic of Hutchinson and Hutchinson Area Health Care join together to enhance the experience of total joint patients as well as improve their outcomes.

The result is the Regional Joint Center.

Call 320.484.4400 to learn more.

Regional Joint Center HUTCHINSON AREA HEALTH CARE

HutchinsonHealthCare.com

02671Z

32 ZEST / May 2011