zest Sept 2010

ZesT

The Right Move A guide to residential living

50+ Living

Last Word:

Cushman crowd fond of its scooters

FDownsizing A full life with less for Orv and Harriet Kuiken

Out and About: A day at the fair

September 2010

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Contents

ZesT 5

September 2010 Vol. 1 No. 7

Calendar: State Parks teeming with activities

6-19 SPECIAL SECTION: The Right Move, a Guide to Residential Living

8

22

8

FEATURE STORY: A full life with less

12

Residential Living: Exploring a retirement community

13

Residential Living: Make safety a priority

14

Residential Living: Index of advertisers

20

Comfort Foods: Chill out with cool cuisine

22

Out and About: A day at the Meeker County Fair

23

Ask Marci: Is my therapy covered?

24

Wellness: Vitamin E supplements and diabetes

30

Last Word: Cushman crowd fond of their scooters

30 An age of options Eggs or cereal? Go out or stay in?

Spend or save?

Decisions rule our lives. Every step we take in life began with a decision. Some are as simple as choosing what to eat for breakfast.

Others have a significant impact on our lives for years to come.

Many people face one of their toughest decisions later in life – to stay in their own homes or move to a housing facility. This edition of Zest offers resources and information for wading through the many living options available and surmounting the hurdles associated with moving.

From an assisted living home to downsized condo living selecting the housing style right for you and your needs is more complicated than it

was for previous generations. In the special residential living guide read through a summary of the housing options available.

One type of residence rising in popularity is condominium communities. Hutchinson residents Harriet and Orv Kuiken, and El Donna and Willmar Harbarth have transitioned from a single family home to a condo. In “A full life with less,” both couples pointed to the maintenancefree lifestyle, convenient location and community atmosphere as endorsements for condo living.

Also in this edition for a bit of added spice is “Cushman crowd fond of their scooters” – a story about a Meeker County Cushman Scooter club. Members of the club hosted a state-wide event that took scooterenthusiast around the lakes and towns of central Minnesota.

Also in this edition are photos

from the Meeker County Fair. And if you haven’t noticed our recipe contest, turn to page 20 to learn how you could win a $25 prize by submitting your favorite recipe.

As always I welcome your feedback and ideas. If you have an idea for a story or just general comments, then please send them to me. You can reach me via email at winter@hutchinsonleader.com or by sending a letter to Hutchinson Leader C/O Katie Winter, 36 Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson, MN 55350 or 217 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355.

Until next time, happy reading.

Katie Winter

ZEST / September 2010 3

Opinion

Paid-off mortgage draws scammers

By Matilda Charles It’s hard enough that we work to pay off our homes so that we won’t have that payment at retirement, but now there’s a scam targeting some seniors who’ve done just that.

Here’s how it works: When you have a mortgage, the Deed of Trust paperwork is recorded with the local county recorder. When a mortgage is paid off, a reconveyance deed is filed by the trustee or title company with that same recorder’s office and the original is sent to you within 30 or 60 days. The paperwork says you’ve paid off your mortgage. Except for property taxes (and maybe condo fees) you don’t owe anybody anything on your home.

That reconveyance deed is extremely important.

Without it, you can’t prove that you own your home.

Knowing that, here come the scammers. A number of seniors have received in the mail official-looking documents saying that their reconveyance deed is not on file.

For a “small” fee, of course, they can fix the situation and ensure that a copy is filed.

Nowadays it’s easy to get information online, and that’s likely where the scammers are getting it. No doubt they’re looking at the exact reconveyance deed online when they note your name and address and send you mail saying

ZesT

that deed is missing.

If you receive official-looking mail saying that your reconveyance deed is not filed, do not send any money to have someone else take care of it for you. Hunt up your own original and call the county recorder’s office. Ask someone there to verify that your deed is copied or noted in the files.

I remember when people use to have deed-burning parties. The paid-off deed was incinerated in the barbecue grill in the backyard and a good time was had by all. It probably was never a good idea to do that.

– King Features Syndicate Inc.

Monuments and More!

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

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

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

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

P R I N T E D BY

4 ZEST / September 2010

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

02075

Darwin Monument N02043 Z

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

Calendar

State Parks teeming with activities Aug. 28: Lives and Legends

Sept. 10: Astronomy in the Park

From 7 to 8 p.m., join David Berg, storyteller, naturalist and historian at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park as he tells the dramatic stories of legends from Minnesota and America, including John James Audubon, Jonathan Carver, Zebulon Pike and James J. Hill.

From 8:30 to 10 p.m. at Lake Maria State Park near Monticello, join University of Minnesota graduate students for an evening of night sky viewing. Telescopes will be available.

Sept. 25: Voyageur encampment re-enactment

Sept. 3: Two Wheel Tour From 10 a.m. to noon at Fort Snelling State Park, partake in a nine mile bike ride past waterfalls, Dakota villages, military camps and old railroads. Bikes are available.

Reservations required, call (612) 725-2724.

Sept. 3-6: Dassel Red Rooster Days Celebrate Labor Day weekend with ambassadors coronation, parade and Minnesota’s largest chicken barbecue.

Sept. 5: Antique Train Ride An antique train ride tour of the St. Croix Valley is set for 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at William O’Brien State Park.

The tour includes a mile walk to the train tracks before departing to Osceola and Dresser, Wis. The cost is $15 for adults, $10 for kids younger than 16, and children younger than 4 ride free.

Christmas in Branson:

Sat., Nov. 13 to Wed., Nov. 17, 2010

Sept. 4, 2010 Discovering Red Wing Tour:

Wed., Oct. 6, 2010

Sept. 28: McLeod County Senior Expo The Senior Expo is at the Hutchinson Event Center and brings people together to learn about available community programs and resources, and to network.

Oct. 9: Fall Color Walk at Sibley State Park Walk with a naturalist along a wooded trail from 2 to 3 p.m. in Sibley State Park north of Willmar to learn how sunlight, temperature, soil and leaves work together to produce fall colors.

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MN State Fair:

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ZEST / September 2010 5

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

6 ZEST / September 2010

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

Options aplenty Retirees have an abundance of retirement living choices, but which is right for you?

W

elcome to Zest’s first special residential living guide. We’re pleased to bring you this unique insight into the housing options older adults have at their fingertips in McLeod and Meeker counties.

This plethora of options is a good thing because according to the 2010 Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey, baby boomers are still willing to move to a new place when they retire. Del Webb has conducted 10 baby boomer surveys since 1996 seeking to better understand the attitudes and opinions of this generation.

This year, the survey found that nearly a third of older baby boomers plan to move in retirement, with more than 50 percent planning to move to a different state, about 25 percent of them planning to move to a different city within the same state, and less than 20 percent of older boomers planning to move within the same city.

Additionally, the desire to move during retirement is on the rise among today’s younger boomers surveyed, with 42 percent of those turning 50 in 2010 planning to do so, as compared to 36 percent among 50 year-olds in 1996.

With so many older adults on the move choosing the perfect retirement community is more important than ever, and there are many things that you will need to consider. Your decision involves more than just choosing between retirement condos or assisted living facilities.

There is the proximity to your children to consider and the letting go of decades worth of accumulated belongings.

On the following pages, learn how two local couples handled the transition from single family home to a condo community, pick up tips for sorting through the assorted boxes and closets in your house, and which questions to ask when touring an assisted living facility.

A good place to start your decision-making process is with what type of retirement living you would like. The following paragraphs summarize a few of the options out there.

• The Independent Living Community The independent living retirement community is best suited for retirees that are completely able to take care of themselves and maintain an active lifestyle. This type of facility will usually have numerous social activities planned for the residents such as trips, parties and a games night. The independent living community provides many bonuses to people living here, such as many amenities including lawn maintenance, trash removal, and laundry service.

• The Assisted Living Community The assisted living retirement community provides living accommodations for people needing facilities between the Independent Living Community and a Nursing Facility. It is for those retirees that need a helping hand with meals, dressing, or daily cleaning but are still able to take care of themselves. Housing in an assisted living community can range from small cottages to grand scale housing facility.

• Nursing Facility Some retirement communities are strictly nursing facilities. They will include a fulltime 24-hour nursing staff on site that can dispense medication. Nursing facilities usually provide assistance with daily eating, bathing, and dressing as well. Most of the social activities for nursing home residents are very light activities such as cards or bingo.

• Home-based Services These include a range of personal, support, and health services provided to individuals in their homes or communities to help them stay at home and live as independently as possible. Most people receive assistance in the form of companionship, caregiving or homemaking.

– EscapeHomes.com

ZEST / September 2010 7

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

STAFF PHOTO BY KATIE WINTER

Orv and Harriet Kuiken were one of the first to move to the Community of Lakeridge. Harriet said the transition has freed them from many home maintenance tasks and introduced them to new friends and experiences.

A full life with less Downsizing, moving yielded richer lives for two Hutchinson couples 8 ZEST / September 2010

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

By Katie Winter

W

hen El Donna Harbarth 71, and her husband Willmar, 77, began to dread the prospect of another long Minnesota winter of shoveling snow and traveling icy roads, they decided to make their move.

They’d been thinking of downsizing to a more maintenance free home for the past year and the tiring of snow removal, lawn mowing and home repairs told them it was the right time for the transition.

The Harbarths moved into Hutchinson’s Greencastle Condominiums Retirement Community in April after selling their house on Lake Hook.

“The snow last winter,”El Donna said with a shake of her head. “You’d get it cleaned off one day and the next day you were out there again. You do that three times a week it gets a little sickening. We decided we didn’t want lawn to cut and snow to clean up.”

Harriet and Orv Kuiken too realized that the time for a change had come. The Kuikens, in their mid-80s, also were weary of home maintenance. In 2006, they moved into the Community of Lakeridge on Hutchinson’s south side.

“We like the arrangement of this,” Harriet said.

“The ease, the chance to be with others if you care to be and it’s so convenient.”

These two couples’ situations are examples of the impact an aging society is having on the housing market. The population is graying and a surge of baby boomers require a new slew of living options.

By the numbers During the coming

decade, the number of Minnesotans ages 55 to 69 is projected to grow by 239,000, accounting for almost half of the total population growth.

“We have been predicting this for a long time, and now it’s here,” said Martha McMurry, a research analyst at the State Demographic Center.

McMurry said the aging trend has many implications for state and local governments, businesses and individuals. Health care costs will continue to be a major issue.

Employers will need to hire and train new employees to replace the large number of retirees. Also as boomers

retire and their incomes decrease, income tax revenues may have trouble keeping pace with the demand for services.

The percentage of Minnesota residents 60and-over in 2000 was 15.7, according to the Administration on Aging.

By 2030, the 60-and-over population is projected to grow to 24 percent from 772,278 in 2000 to a projected 1,513,660 in 2030.

While Minnesotans ages 25 to 44 is projected to only climb slightly from 1,499,530 in 2010 to 1,570,210 in 2035, according to the State Demographic Center.

Meeker and McLeod

counties won’t be immune to the changes.

The number of 65-andovers in McLeod County will jump to 77.1 percent from 5,320 in 2010 to 9,420 in 2030. In Meeker County the 65-and-older population will surge to 70.8 percent from 4,080 in 2010 to 6,970 in 2030.

With this population shift comes a demand for a diverse range of housing options for those older than age 55.

Abundance of options Many central Minnesota counties have been progressive in the development of living options for its older

STAFF PHOTO BY KATIE WINTER

El Donna Harbarth and her husband Willmar moved into Greencastle Condominiums in April. During the move they parted with half of their belongings, which El Donna said she has not missed.

ZEST / September 2010 9

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE residents. From condo communities and assisted living facilities to senior apartments and nursing homes, the area is rich with housing possibilities.

The Harbarths and the Kuikens chose condo living for the best of both worlds it offers. Like many older adults the appeal of still owning their home but without the maintenance and upkeep along with having a congregate living atmosphere while maintaining their independence was irresistible.

The Harbarths looked at a few condo and apartment

options in Hutchinson before settling on Greencastle. She said the indoor mailboxes, heated garage and minimal upkeep drew them to Greencastle.

“Here it’s convenient,” El Donna said. “We looked around and this was available. I liked this unit and this location was a little bit better for us.”

Harriet and Orv did less exploring and decided on the Community of Lakeridge before construction was complete.

“It was probably a year that we talked about it,”

Harriet said. “So once our mind was made up it was quite easy to do.”

As with most real estate decisions, location was key to the Harbarths’ choice.

With stores, medical facilities and entertainment options only a stone’s throw away, El Donna and Willmar have easy access to the amenities and services they need.

“It’s really worked out good,” El Donna said. “I like that the stores are close by. Now I get in and I’m there in no time at all.

Before I had to plan for a little bit longer time. This

is nice. I don’t have far to go and I’m back right away.”

A more hassle-free lifestyle also was on the top of Harriet and Orv’s list, but the community spirit of their new home has been an added bonus. With monthly potluck meals, a large commons area for hosting family gatherings and card game parties, the Kuikens have made new friends and stayed in touch with family.

“The commons is a wonderful place to get together with bigger groups,” Harriet said. “If we didn’t

A sitting area in the commons at the Community of Lakeridge is a wonderful amenity, said resident Harriet Kuiken.The commons also includes a full kitchen and many tables and chairs, suitable for hosting family gatherings.

Greencastle Condominiums offers an ideal location near the Hutchinson Medical Center, stores and restaurants.

Resident El Donna Harbarth said living in easy reach to those places has saved her time and stress.

STAFF PHOTOS

10 ZEST / September 2010

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE have a place like the commons, we couldn’t do things like that. Its just an ideal place to entertain for the people who live here.”

Downsizing Moving is an intensely physical and stressful task for people, no matter their age. For retirees sorting and boxing up decades worth of personal belongs, many of which hold sentimental value is a challenge.

El Donna and Willmar parted with half of their possessions when they moved in April, while Harriet and Orv held on to

a few more items.

“What we used is what we kept,” El Donna said.

“What wasn’t being used was time to get rid of. We had two of everything and it’s two too much when you come to a place like this. Its good it’s gone so I don’t have to worry about it anymore.”

Harriet and Orv devised a creative way to part with some belongings.

“It was shortly before Christmas when we decided we were going to do this,” Harriet recalled. “So I set up in the extra bedroom the things I didn’t think I wanted. I put them out so

when our kids came at Christmas time they walked into that room and they could pick out whatever they wanted. I thought there would be a lot of stuff left, but there wasn’t.”

Lessons learned The Harbarths and the Kuikens learned a few things in their journeys to new homes, but the most valuable advice they would share with others considering a similar transition is to not wait too long.

“One thing Orv said when we moved in here that I thought was a pro-

found statement and I have said it so many time.

Shortly after we moved in here he said ‘the trouble is most people wait too long to do this.’ I just thought that was a very good statement to make and its true. Its so much nicer if you can do it while you’re still together.”

El Donna and Willmar felt the same way.

“We’re getting older,” El Donna said. “I said if something were to happen to either one of us out there, the other wouldn’t be too comfortable out there alone. So I said let’s do it while we can and he agreed.”

Planning to downsize?

Helpful tips to get started • Start with the rooms you use the least. Start the sorting process in these rooms and avoid cluttering the areas of the home used regularly.

• Start with large items. To feel you are making progress, in each room start with the largest items and move towards the smallest.

• Have a sorting system. Sort items by using stickers, making piles, or making detailed lists of what will be kept, what will be given away and to where, and what is still undecided.

• Work in scheduled blocks of time. Plan to sort items for periods of no more than two hours at a time. The process of revisiting memories and making decisions about items you have lived with for many years can be emotionally difficult. You will feel less overwhelmed and make better decisions if you take regular breaks and allow yourself time to digest what is happening.

• Keep the items that you treasure the most: Make a list of items you refuse to part with and keep that list in sight as you sort through other possessions. You may need to amend this list as you come across new things.

• Consider bequeathing items now. Identify those items you want certain family members to have and consider what items you are willing to bequest now.

• Get rid of things you no longer need. Be realistic about what items you use regularly and what items you

are just used to having around.

• Consider having a garage sale or home auction.

• Donate to charity. For those items you cannot give away as gifts or sell for profit, make a tax deductible donation to charity. Often traditional charity organizations will pick-up donated items.

• Have the kids remove their “stuff.” Don’t hesitate to tell the adult children it is time to collect their childhood belongings and store their own mementos. Give them a deadline that works with your schedule and warn them that anything leftover will be donated to charity.

• Agree on a system. In order to avoid disagreements among adult children and other family members, create a clear system for identifying who gets what. One idea is to assign each family member a colored sticker and identify items accordingly. An alternative is to have family members take turns choosing items they would like to have.

• Encourage negotiation: If disagreements happen despite your efforts, encourage family members to negotiate amongst themselves.

– Source: “Tips on Downsizing: Moving from the Family Home” by Christine Price, Extension State Gerontology Specialist, The Ohio State University

ZEST / September 2010 11

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

Exploring a retirement community When you start to consider retirement communities, there are many factors to evaluate. It is important to anticipate the needs you will have as you age as well as what you desire when you first retire. This checklist will help ensure you weigh all aspects of your potential new home and make the best decision for your future.

• Cost of living: The costs of housing, utilities, insurance and food vary from place to place, although not as much as you might believe. Most areas with a sizable population and reasonable services will be within range of the median cost of living in the U.S. However, it is important for retirees to research how much they must spend to live in a specific area, since extreme costs can cut into your savings quickly.

• Proximity to friends and family: While many people dream of moving to a fantasy location once they retire, they often do not think about the people they will be leaving behind. Do you have friends or relatives in any of the areas you are considering? If not, how far will you have to travel to see your children or grandchildren?

• Ease of local and distant travel: What are the transportation services like in the communities you are considering? Is public transportation affordable and accessible?

While you may drive everywhere now, as you age you may find it necessary to make use of buses, trains and subways. Examine these services now, to make sure they will be in place when you need them.

In addition, how far are the nearest airports? If you plan to visit your grandchildren several times a year or want them to visit you, it is important to look at how accessible distant travel is. An hour’s drive or train ride to

get to an airport is reasonable, while a six-hour drive to reach the nearest major airport may be prohibitive.

• Health care and elderly services: While you may start your retirement as a vital and healthy mature adult, the odds are high that your healthcare needs will only increase. Does each community you are considering offer a reasonable number of doctors per area resident? Is there a major medical center in the area? How far away are specialists if you have a complicated medical condition?

Even if you do not have health problems as you age, you may need some other kinds of help. Is there a local council on aging or other social services agency devoted to elderly services? Are things like adult day care, meal delivery and shuttle transportation readily available? How about grocery and prescription delivery? All of these things can make the process of getting older a little easier.

• Climate and geography: Climate is a critical thing to consider, although it may not be as important as some retirees rate it. Certainly, if you have a health condition that requires a temperate climate you should take it into account and weather extremes can make it more difficult to get around.

• Social opportunities: What are the demographics of your new community? Whether you are single or married, you will inevitably need social contacts wherever you move. While it is good to mix with people of all ages, you may find it especially important to have other retirees to connect with. So, look for an environment that has not only people in your age group, but also opportunities to meet and socialize with others.

– EscapeHomes.com

Resources help to ease your move Instead of downsizing, maybe we should call it “right sizing.” For many older Americans, that right size is a smaller place. And that means getting rid of some belongings that just won’t fit.

No matter what you call it, moving can be difficult.

There is help, however.

If downsizing involves selling your current property, consider using an expert. A seniors real estate specialist is an agent who has passed special course work and training. To locate one in your area, call a local broker.

If you don’t need to sell or buy a property and only need help with the actual moving process, consider using a certified relocation and transition specialist. These are people who help with the planning and moving of those who are age 55 or older. They will be able to arrange for packing, moving, sorting, organizing, antiques evaluations and more. Visit the National Association of Senior Move Managers’ website at www.nasmm.org for more information.

12 ZEST / September 2010

Do you really know what you have in terms of value?

Have multiple appraisers come out and make offers on items you either don’t want to take with you or haven’t decided on. Perhaps learning that certain antiques could net you hundreds or thousands of dollars can help you decide.

A 55-page book by Barbara H. Morris called “Moving for Seniors,” could be very helpful. It costs $15 but could be a real sanity saver. It’s available at www.movingforseniors.com, or on Amazon.com for around $10.

If you fear you’re going to be “helped” in your move by some grabby, uncaring people, consider getting this book, too: “Don’t Toss My Memories in the Trash – A Step-byStep Guide to Helping Seniors Downsize, Organize, and Move,” by Vickie Dellaquila. The book also is around $10.

Read the reviews on Amazon.com to see if you think the books will help you.

– King Features Syndicate Inc.

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE

Make safety a priority in search for an assisted living facility Thousands of people every year begin the process of evaluating assisted living facilities either for themselves or a loved one. Personal safety is one of the primary reasons individuals choose to enter a care facility.

Older adults often cherish their independence and don’t want to admit they may need help in certain areas of daily life. However, injuries in and around the house have become a routine part of many of their lives.

At some point in time a conversation has to be had, if it is no longer safe for an elderly person to live alone.

Although there are other living arrangements available, such as inlaw suites in homes or a visiting nurse service, for many seniors the practical choice is to enter an assisted living facility.

Assisted living facilities are suitable for individuals needing help with activities of daily life, but who desire to live as independently as possible for as long as possible. An assisted living facility acts as a transition between independent living and a nursing home. It is practical for those who cannot live on their own but do not require constant supervision.

Facilities may offer a host of services, including assistance with eating, dressing, bathing, housekeeping and other needs. The center also may be able to provide some level of medical care. However, this medical care won’t be as extensive as in a nursing home or hospital setting.

Many times facilities are part of a larger web of care called a continuing care system. This means there is a network of facilities in an adult community, from independent living to assisted living to a nursing home.

This enables a person to work with one organization and travel comfortably through the system as need warrants.

Because safety is the primary reason for seeking a new living arrangement, safety should be one of the foremost considerations when choosing an assisted living facility. Here

are some questions to ask when visiting properties.

• Is there adequate lighting indoors and outdoors?

• Are apartments equipped with grab bars in the bathrooms and safety railings in the hallways?

• Can a person move freely throughout the apartment without tripping on carpeting or other obstructions?

• Are there safety signaling devices inside the residence in case of an emergency?

• Are there personnel available 24 hours a day to offer assistance?

• Is a call-in system present to ensure that residents are doing well every day?

• Are employee references checked thoroughly and have they undergone a background check to ensure they are safe to have on the premises?

• Is the facility clean and up-todate with the latest technology?

• Is there medical care available for routine services, like dietary needs, podiatry and general checkups?

• Is there a maintenance staff for home fixes, such as plumbing problems or electrical outages?

Once safety concerns have been addressed, facilities can be considered based on other desirable factors.

Many individuals want facilities that offer recreation, free transportation to stores and doctor visits and proximity to family and friends. Some residents desire a small facility, while others like the options of a larger one.

Cost will also be a major factor in the decision. If the facility offers everything desired, it could be worth the expense to pay a little more for good care.

Check that the staff at an assisted living facility is qualified, accessible and caring before making your choice.

ZEST / September 2010 13

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE — Pages 16 to 19

Baby boomers and retirees have many choices how and where to live. Some select to remain in the family home, but recruit help.

Others purchase a condominium or townhome in a 50-plus community. Those who want more help might opt for an assisted living facility with a slate of activities, meal options and more.

Browse the spectrum of choices in the living options guide on the next few pages.

• Augustana Lutheran Homes • Cokato Senior Care-Edgewood Gables • Evergreen Apartments • Greencastle • Hometown RealtyCommunity of Lakeridge 14 ZEST / September 2010

• Prairie Senior Cottages • Prince of Peace Retirement Living • Southern Minnesota Home Care • The Oaks & The Pines • Touching Hearts at Home

Now Featuring

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

The Oaks & The Pines

N02437 Z

The Senior Community of Hutchinson

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010 15

Trusted Care Keeps You Safe at Home We’ll help you live independently without changing your lifestyle.

What can you expect from our caregivers? ® A Compassionate Heart ® Trustworthiness and Reliability ® Experience and Training ® Insured and Bonded ® Guaranteed Compatibility Companionship Services that can grow with your unique needs ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ®

Offer Companionship and Conversation Monitor Diet and Eating Prepare Meals, Check Food Expirations Record/Arrange Recipes Prepare Grocery Lists, Clip Coupons Assist with Evening/Tuck-In or Morning/Wake-Up Arrange Appointments, or Remind about Appointments Remind about Medication Help with Reading Assist with Walking Write Letters, Correspondence, Organize Mail, Mail Bills and Letters Stimulate Mental Awareness Assist with Entertaining Answer the Door Reminisce about the Past Assist with Clothing Selection Care for House Plants Discuss Current/Historical Events Play Games, Cards or Participate in Crafts Supervise Home Maintenance Monitor TV Usage, Rent and Play Movies Read Religious Materials Maintain Calendar Maintain Family Scrapbook Provide a Stable Bathing Environment

Home Helper Services I I I I I I I I I I I I

Provide Light Housekeeping Help with Laundry and Ironing Take Out Garbage Change Linens, Make Beds Plan, Prepare and Clean Up Meals Prepare Future Meals Dust Furniture Pick Up Prescriptions Organize and Clean Closets Assist with Pet Care Provide for General Shopping Accompany to Lunch or Dinner

Asking for help is not easy. Losing your independence is probably your greatest fear.

We understand and we want to be there for you, by your side, every step of the way.

SERVING ALL OF SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Southern Minnesota Home Care 126 Main St. S., Suite 6, Hutchinson

320-587-0118

02158

Insured and Bonded

16 RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010

P

Prince of Peace Retirement Living supports

McLeod County

Celebrating 15 Years And Still Rocking!

1995 – 2010

SENIOR EXPO 2010

“Navigating Life’s Journey”

Tues., Sept. 28 • 8:00 am-2:30 pm Hutchinson Event Center Featuring local vendors, several workshop sessions to choose from, a make-n-take craft, and “back by popular demand” keynote speaker, Doug Ohman.

Morning coffee, lunch, door prizes, and entertainment are included in ticket price.

Advance tickets only $8.00 For more information contact Nancy at 320-864-7798.

301 Glen St. SW, Hutchinson

320-234-7588 N02443 Z

Exceptional SENIOR LIVING Your life can be carefree at a price you can afford.

EVERGREEN APARTMENTS Senior Community (62+/Handicap or Disabled)

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

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

320-587-9432

N02015 Z

Now Taking Applications

5 5 5 5 5 5 5

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010 17

“Making Life Pleasant for Residents” Thoughts of fall leaf raking and visions of another icy Minnesota winter got you down? Put your worries aside and cozy up around the fireplace with your new neighbors at Edgewood Gables, providing a lifestyle that offers: • Special senior living amenities • Support and services respectful of your individuality • NEW! Fully Furnished short-term stay transitional apartment • Fall move-in promotions...ASK US! For more information contact Eric Johnson at (320) 286-2159 or at ejohnson@ll.net 600 East Third Street Cokato, MN 55321

N02434 Z

www.cokato-senior-care.org

Faith ~ Compassion ~ Commitment ~ Wise Stewardship

A Lifetime of Care

Augustana Lutheran Homes 320-693-2472 www.augustanahomes.org

02023

Skilled Care Assisted Living Hospice Lifeline Senior Housing RSVP Home Care Adult Day Services Public Transit Meals on Wheels

18 RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010

Prairie Senior Cottages

The Community of Lakeridge Affordable 2 bedroom, 2 bath condos with heated garages.

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

For independent adults 55 years and better.

Prairie Senior Cottages, LLC

HOMETOWN REALTY, INC.

For more information, call John Peterson.

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

130 Washington Avenue E., Hutchinson, MN 55350 N02444 Z

(320) 587-6115

www.hometownmn.com

N02183

Built on Preserving Dignity

www.prairieseniorcottages.com

Hutchinson’s Best Kept Secret

• • • •

Interior mail delivery All units are handicapped accessible Heated garages Large, attractive Commons area with commercial kitchen available for private use • Overnight guest rooms available, each with two queen-sized beds, TV and full bath

02438

Greencastle Condominiums in Hutchinson provide a friendly and secure lifestyle for seniors 55 years and older. Amenities include: • Library with books, magazines, movies • Game room with pool table • Exercise room, craft room workshop and recycling room • Quarter-mile interior walking corridor • Entirely one-level living

Greencastle is walking distance to restaurants, shopping and the Senior Event Center. Bus service stops here!

Call Greencastle’s manager today for a tour.

A Legacy for the Future

250 Freemont Ave. S.E., Hutchinson • 320-587-4040 • Office Hours: Monday–Friday 9 am–Noon

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010 19

Comfort Foods

Chill out with cool cuisine Chilled Corn and Bacon Soup From Good Housekeeping Ingredients: • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 1 large shallot, finely chopped • 3 cups fresh corn kernels • 1 large Yukon gold potato, peeled and shredded • 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish • 2/3 cup water • 4 cups (1 percent) low-fat milk • Salt and pepper • 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves Instructions: 1. In 12-inch skillet, cook bacon on medium 6 to 8 minutes or until crisp and browned. With slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain.

2. Drain and discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet. Add shallots and cook on medium 2 minutes or until golden and tender, stirring occasionally. Add 2 1/2 cups corn, shredded potato and paprika. Cook 2 minutes, stirring, then add water and cook 7 minutes or until liquid evaporates and vegetables are tender.

3. Remove skillet from heat and transfer corn mixture to blender. Add milk and 1/8 teaspoon salt and puree until mixture is very smooth. Cover and refrigerate until soup is very cold, at least 3 hours and up to overnight.

4. To serve, top with bacon, cilantro, freshly ground black pepper and remaining corn. Garnish with paprika.

Dillied Tuna-Macaroni Salad

By Healthy Exchanges Ingredients: • 2 cups cold cooked rotini pasta, rinsed and drained • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion • 1 cup sliced celery • 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese • 1/4 cup dill pickle relish • 1 (6-ounce) can white tuna, packed in water, drained and flaked • 1/2 cup fat-free mayonnaise • 1 teaspoon lemon juice • 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, combine rotini pasta, onion, celery and Cheddar cheese. In a small bowl, combine dill pickle relish, tuna, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add dressing mixture to pasta mixture. Mix well to combine. Fold in chopped egg.

2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Gently stir again just before serving.

Rainbow Fruit Salad From Kitchen Diva Ingredients: • 1 large mango, peeled and diced • 2 cups fresh blueberries • 2 nectarines, unpeeled and sliced • 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved • 2 cups seedless grapes • 2 bananas, sliced • 1 kiwifruit, peeled and diced Instructions: 1. Prepare the fruit.

2. Combine all ingredients, and mix.

3. Before serving, pour honey-orange sauce over fruit.

Honey-Orange Sauce

Ingredients: • 1/3 cup unsweetened orange juice • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 1-1/2 tablespoons honey • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger • Dash of nutmeg Instructions: Using a small bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, honey, ginger and nutmeg until well-blended. When ready to serve, pour sauce over fruit salad.

20 ZEST / September 2010

Comfort Foods

Freezing saves the best of summer Your freezer is one of the best ways to preserve the color and flavor of summer produce all year long. Here’s some great tips for freezing the best selection of your favorite summer vegetables and herbs.

• Can I freeze bell and sweet peppers raw?

Peppers are one of those foods that can be quickly frozen raw without blanching them first. The National Center for Home Food Preservation offers these guidelines: Select crisp, tender, green or bright-red pods. Wash, cut out stems, cut in half and remove seeds. If desired, cut into one-half inch strips or rings. Good for use in uncooked foods because they have a crisper texture, or in cooked foods. Package raw, leaving no headspace. Seal and freeze.

To make it easier to remove only the amount of frozen peppers needed at one time, freeze sliced or diced peppers in a single layer on a cookie sheet with sides. Transfer to a freezer bag when frozen.

• Can tomatoes be frozen raw?

Like peppers, tomatoes can be frozen raw. Frozen tomatoes are best used in cooked foods such as soups, sauces and stews as they become mushy when they’re thawed.

Select firm, ripe tomatoes with deep red color. Wash and dip in boiling water for 30 seconds to loosen skins. Core and peel. Freeze whole or in pieces. Pack into containers, leaving l-inch headspace. Seal and freeze.

Dip just a few tomatoes at a time into the boiling water or the water temperature may be lowered too much to remove the skins without overheating the tomatoes. Place hot tomatoes in a colander and rinse under cold water to make them easier to handle. A knife with a serrated edge works best for cutting tomatoes.

• How about freezing fresh herbs?

Wash, drain and pat the herbs dry with paper towels.

Wrap a few sprigs or leaves in freezer wrap and place in a freezer bag, then seal and freeze. The frozen herbs can be chopped and used in cooked dishes. After freezing, the herbs usually are not suitable for garnish, as they become limp when thawed.

To extend the time frozen fruits and vegetables maintain good quality, package foods in material intended for freezing and keep the temperature of the freezer at 0 F or below. It is generally recommended that frozen vegetables and fruits be eaten within eight months for best quality.

Regional Eye Center A WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CARE IN HUTCHINSON

WE OFFER THREE AREAS OF EXPERTISE IN ONE CONVENIENT, RELAXED ATMOSPHERE I

Regional Eye Specialists OPHTHALMOLOGY/ OPTOMETRY

A new level of eye examination and patient education.

State-of-the art equipment for examination of the retina, macula and optic nerve.

I

Regional Eye Optical QUALITY EYEWEAR/ PERSONAL EYECARE

Twice the optical selection, including new frame styles, Transitions® and polarized prescription sunglasses.

I

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

Regional Eye Surgery Center ON-SITE SURGERY CENTER

On-site cataract, glaucoma and Wavescan® LASIK surgery, performed with the latest surgical equipment.

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

We offer the newest technologies in • Lifestyle Premium Intraocular Lenses—implants that correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and the need for bifocals • New Surgical Treatment of Glaucoma • All-Laser Lasik Amy J. Nyquist, O.D.

Steve Queenan ABO/NCLE

Michael P. Merck, M.D.

Christopher R. Wallyn, D.O.

Allan D. Wortz, O.D.

• New Treatments for Macular Degeneration • Eyelid Surgery N02351 Z

ZEST / September 2010 21

Out and About

A day out at the fair Betty Hermann, Litchfield admires the selection of 4-H art projects on Aug. 5 at the Meeker County Fair. Hermann spent 13 years as a 4-H’er herself as a youth.

STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

Ripe, colorful vegetables adorn the shelves and tables in the open class building at the Meeker County Fair.

At the right, Buddy Christensen, Litchfield takes a gander at a selection of cacti displayed at the Meeker County Fair. Christensen is a plant enthusiast, who used to grow his vegetables on his hobby farm.

22 ZEST / September 2010

Ask Marci

Is my therapy covered?

Dear Marci, I recently had a hip replacement, and my doctor says I will need physical therapy every day for the next few weeks in a skilled nursing facility. Will Medicare pay for the therapy services and other care I receive in the skilled nursing facility?

— Gladys Dear Gladys, Medicare will cover your skilled nursing facility care if all three of these requirements are met: • You need skilled nursing care seven days a week or skilled therapy services at least five days a week; • You become eligible for Medicare before you are released from the hospital • You were formally admitted as an inpatient to a hospital for at least three days in a row in the 30 days before admission to a Medicare-certified skilled nursing facility.

If you only get emergency room services, or are under observation, this time does not qualify you for Medicare coverage of a SNF stay.

Medicare-covered SNF care includes: skilled nursing care, physical, occupational, or speech therapy, the cost of room and board, as well as other services and items such as prescription drugs and medical equipment you receive at the SNF. If you have Original Medicare there is no copay for the first 20 days in a skilled nursing facility. After the first 20 days, you will have to pay a copay of $137.50 each day from day 21 through day 100 in 2010.

Private health plans must also cover skilled nursing facility care but may not require the three-day prior hospital stay requirement or charge different amounts for care.

Starting in 2011, private health plans will be limited in their ability to charge higher cost-sharing for SNF care than original Medicare.

In order to find a skilled nursing facility, you should speak to your doctor and the hospital discharge planner about your skilled nursing facility care needs. Ask them to help you find a Medicare-certified skilled nursing facility in your area that will best meet your needs after you leave the hospital.

— Marci

Do you need help people with Medicare? Call the Professional Hotline, a national service offered by the Medicare Rights Center to support people serving the Medicare population. Dial 877-794-3570 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST for info.

ZEST / September 2010 23

Wellness

Vitamin E supplements and diabetes don’t mix

Dear Mayo Clinic: I have heard that vitamin E can be harmful to diabetics with heart problems. Can you tell me more about this?

Answer: The scientific evidence has been mixed regarding vitamin E’s effect on a person's risk of heart disease. Early studies seemed to indicate that vitamin E could help prevent heart disease. Results of followup studies have been less promising, however. The vitamin E you consume as part of a healthy diet isn’t a concern. But, based on the research information available now, I do not recommend that people with diabetes take vitamin E supplements.

Vitamin E is found in a variety of foods, including vegetable oils (corn, cottonseed, soybean, safflower), wheat germ, whole-grain cereals and green leafy vegetables. One of vitamin E’s functions is to prevent a chemical reaction called oxidation, which can sometimes result in harmful effects in your body. Because of this, vitamin E is called an “antioxidant.”

Substantial evidence from basic science and laboratory research has suggested that antioxidants such as vita-

24 ZEST / September 2010

min E may reduce heart disease risk by several mechanisms. One is preventing low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol from producing plaques that can narrow the heart’s arteries (atherosclerosis). Diabetes dramatically increases a person’s risk of cardiovascular problems — including coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Thus, it seemed appropriate, based on these initial studies, to recommend vitamin E supplements to people with diabetes.

Several subsequent studies have indicated otherwise. To follow up on initial observational studies that suggested possible benefits, researchers conducted a variety of controlled clinical trials that studied people who were randomly assigned to take vitamin E daily. These studies found that regular use of high-dose vitamin E supplements may increase the risk of death (from all causes) by a small amount, while other studies found no effect on mortality in people who took vitamin E daily.

Some of the clinical trials raised concerns about an increased risk of bleeding when people take high doses of vitamin E daily, particularly in

patients who take blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, heparin, or aspirin, and in patients with vitamin K deficiency.

As a result of these more recent findings, some researchers have argued that there may be subpopulations, including individuals with diabetes, who are affected differently by vitamin E, and some vitamin E preparations that have differing effects. These situations have yet to be studied.

The ongoing research regarding vitamin E illustrates several important points. First, recommendations based solely on laboratory studies do not always show the expected outcome when translated to real-life situations in people. Second, outcomes found in observational studies are not controlled in a way that allows researchers to determine the true impact of the use of a medication or supplement. For example, observational studies can suggest an association, but are not a true test, of possible benefits of vitamin E. Vitamin E may have been the basis for the findings, but other possible explanations exist.

Third, the highest level of evidence to support the use of a certain medication or supplement comes from clinical randomized controlled trials assessing not only intermediate outcomes — such as antioxidant activity in this case — but more significantly, patient-important outcomes, such as quality of life and morbidity.

Based on the information we have now, I would not recommend that a diabetic patient take additional vitamin E other than what would be included in a sensible heart-healthy diet. If you have questions about your diet or about ways to reduce your risk of heart disease, talk to your doctor.

— Steven Smith, M.D., Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

Travel

AARP names top five places to retire abroad Experts in celebrating the next chapter in life, AARP The Magazine traveled the globe to discover the ultimate retirement destinations abroad. See what regions in Mexico, France, Panama, Portugal and Italy have to offer.

1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Puerto Vallarta is the undisputed number one destination for American retirees. With its rich Indian and Spanish culture, lavish beaches and affordable real-estate, Puerto Vallarta offers the low-cost, laid back lifestyle retirees seek to find in a community.

2. Languedoc-Roussillon, France Once remote, the Languedoc-Roussillon region is now just three hours from the bright lights and bustling energy of Paris via high-speed train. The area is steeped in history and art. Languedoc-Roussillon is also a destination for the outdoor crowd with picturesque hills and beach along its Mediterranean seashore.

3. Boquete, Panama Panama is a smart choice for retirees who want it all.

Not only does it feature attractive retiree destinations, Panama also offers an unbeatable package of retiree benefits and discounts. Boquete has a unique range of backhome amenities, from a golf course to high-end gated communities.

4. Cascais, Portugal Many wonder why Portugal has long been overlooked by American retirees. A plenitude of golf, beaches, resorts and trendy café life makes Portugal one of Europe’s most pleasant surprises for retirees.

5. Le Marche, Italy Le Marche, bordering the Adriatic, is beautiful region with vineyards, snow-capped mountains and beaches aplenty. It also prides itself on the best fish dishes in the country and is trendy enough to have snagged Dustin Hoffman as a tourism spokesperson!

For more information and an extended list of AARP The Magazine’s “Best Places to Retire Abroad,” visit www.aarp.org.

Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day:

10% Off Parts

and

Labor

in our Service Department.

Service Manager Jeremy Crosby, Service Writer DeWayne Ingebretson, Body Shop Manager Alan Olson

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

Enjoy free coffee and cookies!

A car dealer for the times in Hutchinson

• Sales • Service • Body Shop • Parts

525 Hwy. 7 East Hutchinson 320-587-2240 www.valleyhutchinson.com N02451 Z

ZEST / September 2010 25

Puzzles

KING CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Group of musicians 5 Great Lakes fish 9 Dubya's brother 12 Chills and fever 13 Leak slowly 14 Eggs 15 Mischievous sprite 17 Stein or Stiller 18 Go up 19 Express appreciation 21 Tag 24 A Baldwin brother 25 Lotion additive 26 Fixed firmly 30 Young lion 31 One over par 32 Rage 33 Inscribe, as in heraldry 35 Soccer score 36 "Dear -" 37 Feel

26 ZEST / September 2010

38 40 42 43 48 49 50 51 52 53

Equine Ethereal Wapiti Sympathy-evoking journalist Retainer Attention getter Simple Anderson's "High -" Youngsters Stratagem

DOWN 1 "Humbug!"

2 Past 3 Gist 4 Temperature unit 5 Corn eaters' throwaways 6 Golf target 7 Submachine gun 8 British automobile 9 Mini-strike 10 Level 11 Teller's place 16 Lubricate

20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31 34 35 37 38 39 40 41 44 45 46 47

Coop occupant Chantilly, e.g.

Astringent "Priceless Memories" writer Congregational call Snug and warm Swelled head History chapters Opposite of "stet" Watched 52-Across Ton fractions (Abbr.)

Old Faithful, e.g.

- Lanka Weight Margarine Help a hood Doctrines Discoverer's cry Greek consonant Ar follower Reuben holder

All answers on page 28

Puzzles

All answers on page 28

Hearing less of life?

We can help.

Hutchinson Center for Hearing 100 Washington Ave. E., Hutchinson 320-234-6825

Litchfield Center for Hearing 32 E. 2nd St., Litchfield 320-593-0885 N02070 Z

ZEST / September 2010 27

Puzzle Answers

ter Katie Win Reporter -3266 (320) 693 -4172 4 (320) 23

Shari For

s

man Marketing Representa tive (320) 69 3-3266 (320) 234 -4171

Crow River Media A target market media division of the Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader CROW RIVER

28 ZEST / September 2010

BUSINESS

ZesT D CKSIDE N

January 2010

W

E

S

Money Matters

Reverse mortgages can save you more money Understanding the basics of a reverse mortgage could save you some money.

For example, some banks offer FHA-insured reverse mortgages with lower fees. With the reduced cost, older homeowners may have access to more tax-free loan proceeds to help secure financial independence.

“This is great news for people who are retired and want to increase their monthly income. Reverse mortgage loans can help homeowners age 62 or older to improve their monthly cash flow and have real peace of mind,” said Tim McDonald, head of Wells Fargo’s Senior Products Group.

Reverse mortgage loan proceeds are paid to the senior homeowner in a lump sum, for a fixed-rate loan or a lump sum, monthly payment, a line of credit or a combination of the three for a variable rate loan.

Additionally, there are no credit, employment or income qualifications for the reverse mortgage programs.

Homeowners must be at least 62 and own their house free and clear or able to pay it off with proceeds from the reverse mortgage.

Many older Americans use the loan funds to supplement retirement income, meet unexpected medical expenses, or make much-needed improvements to their home.

“Social Security replaces only a fraction of preretirement earnings, so a reverse mortgage is a popular choice for retirees looking to secure financial independence,” McDonald said.

Reverse mortgages can be key to ensuring that you have the financial ability to age in place. Studies show that 85

percent of older Americans want to stay in their homes for as long as they can. Even modest homes have the potential to generate more than $600 in monthly proceeds from a variable-rate reverse mortgage — as long as the they live in the home as their primary home, keeps the taxes and insurance paid and maintains the house to FHA standards.

That amount of money can make a big difference in the lifestyle of someone in retirement.

The HECM is the most popular reverse mortgage in America today and is only available through an FHAapproved lender. The program has insured more than 580,000 reverse mortgages since 1989.

Wells Fargo attributes the growth of reverse mortgage loans to several factors, including that seniors have greater awareness and understanding of the reverse mortgage loan product, and the aging U.S. population — currently, more than 34 million Americans are over age 65.

By 2050, it is projected that 86.7 million Americans will be 65 or older.

The loan amount for a reverse mortgage is based on three factors: age of the youngest borrower, value of the home and current interest rates.

Numerous consumer safeguards are built into the program, including mandatory HUD-approved counseling, payment guarantees, capped interest rates and advanced disclosures.

– NAPSI

Which annuity is right for you?

Annuities are in the spotlight these days as a popular way to help Americans achieve a secure retirement.

“People are living longer, and the prospect of outliving your money is very real,” said Rich Lindsay, senior vice president of Life and Annuities at Symetra Financial.

“Annuities are a great way to ensure your money lasts as long as you do.”

When you buy an annuity, the insurance company has a contractual obligation to guarantee payment at the time you designate. Your money grows tax-deferred as long as it remains in the contract.

Here’s a primer to help pick the type of annuity right for you: • Immediate or deferred: First, consider when you will want your money. If you need it right away, use a lump sum to purchase an immediate annuity, which starts pay-

ing out within 13 months. With a deferred annuity, you invest your money now, let it grow over time, then convert it to an income stream at some point in the future.

• Fixed or variable: Next, determine your risk tolerance. Fixed annuities offer a more conservative solution as they build retirement assets at a guaranteed interest rate. Variable annuities are riskier because account values are based on market fluctuations, but they do have the potential for higher rewards.

• Consider your options: There are several options you can add to an annuity. For example, you can adjust payouts for inflation, select a death benefit that pays out to your heirs, or receive a lump sum in case of an emergency. Extra fees may apply with some of these options.

– NAPSI

ZEST / September 2010 29

Last Word

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The spring ride of the Cushman Club of America’s Minnesota Chapter took place June 6, and included a stop in Darwin.The event drew 34 people and 22 scooters, according to Eddie Johnson, a member from Darwin.

Cushman crowd sure fond of their scooter

By Brent Schacherer

E

ddie Johnson bought his first Cushman scooter when he was 14, intending to ride it to and from his part-time job.

More than 50 years later, he no longer owns that scooter, but Johnson still remembers it fondly. And he owns two others that continue to satisfy his Cushman enthusiasm.

“They were really popular back then,” Johnson, 70,

said of the scooter he bought in the mid-1950s.

“A lot of guys around here had them.”

The Cushman Co. manufactured its last scooter in the mid-1960s. Needless to say, Cushmans are no longer a popular mode of transportation for Meeker County residents.

But Johnson and about 100 others around Minnesota continue to keep the thrill of Cushman scooters alive through the Minnesota chapter of the

30 ZEST / September 2010

Cushman Club of America.

Johnson played host to the chapter’s annual spring ride two weeks ago.

The event drew 34 club members and 22 scooters, and the majority made a Saturday morning ride from Darwin to Roscoe, just northeast of Paynesville, and back again — a roundtrip of about 120 miles.

Johnson made sure he brought fellow riders around as many lakes in the area as possible. The ride included stops at the

Roscoe Tavern, Mies Outland in Watkins, and of course, the twine ball in Darwin.

“It’s fun to get together, and I like to show them some of the businesses in our area, too,” said Johnson, who last was host to the event about 12 years ago.

Mostly, though, the event is about celebrating the Cushman scooters all of the members cherish so much.

The Cushman Co. began in 1901 when cousins

Last Word Everett and Clinton Cushman started making farm machinery and twocycle boat engines in Lincoln, Neb. According to company lore, a youngster visited the plant in 1935, in search of spare parts for his scooter — which was powered by an old Cushman washing machine motor. A plant employee took an interest in the scooter and the following year, the company manufactured its first Cushman scooter.

The company made scooters for the armed services during World War II. By 1950, the expanded Cushman plant in Lincoln was producing 10,000 scooters per year. The company eventually branched out into manufacturing items such as golf carts and threewheeled trucksters.

Two members of the Minnesota chapter of the Cushman Club of America worked at the Lincoln plant, according to Johnson. And while there seems to be nothing remarkable about the scooters, which ran on everything from 3 horsepower to 9

horsepower engines, they hold a special attraction for those who rode the machines in their youth, Johnson said.

“We had them as kids, you know.

(Riding them today), it’s bringing the boyhood back to me when we get on and ride them,” he said.

Johnson has owned several Cushman scooters through the years, and he had three in his possession up to last year — a 1946, 1955 and 1965.

He sold the 1946 Civilian Airborne last year, but continues to ride the other two.

Among Johnson’s favorite rides, he said, is his annual appearance aboard one of his Cushmans in the Darwin Twine Ball parade. “It’s just a lot of fun,” he said. “I always ride in the parade.”

While most of the Minnesota chapter members are getting on in years — the oldest is 86 — hopping aboard their Cushmans has a way of bringing out the kid in them, Johnson said, no matter where the ride takes them.

Eddie and Ileen Johnson get ready to hop aboard his 1965 Cushman.

“The mail’s here!”

$10 per year.

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

N02255

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

ZEST / September 2010 31

Rest easy, The Sleep Center is open

A good’s night’s sleep is essential to your health. Experts estimate that 95 percent of those suffering from sleep disorders go undiagnosed, because they mistakenly attribute the symptoms of sleep disorders to other conditions. People literally sleep through their problems.

Who Should Visit The Sleep Center?

Sleep disorders and poor sleep can be associated with the following symptoms: • Daytime sleepiness even after a • Short temper or irritability full night’s sleep • Nighttime chest pains • Morning headaches • Lack of energy or ambition • Breathing irregularities/heavy snoring, • Problems concentrating or snorting or gasping during sleep remembering things

Methods of Treatment Treatment may include relaxation training, behavioral therapy, medication, or the use of special devices that help patients improve their sleep. Some patients will need an overnight sleep study (called polysomnography or PSG) that monitors your sleep, breathing, heart rhythm and limb movement through painless sensors attached to your body.

Proven Expertise. Excellent Results.

320.234.5000 www.HutchinsonHealthCare.com

32 ZEST / September 2010

N02445 Z

The Sleep Center is led by a physician from the University of Minnesota who specializes in the testing, diagnosis and treatment of your symptoms. If you or someone you know could benefit from a better night’s sleep, contact your physician for a referral.