Live it! Magazine, February/March 2019

Live it! ▶ Fighting for rights of crime victims ▶ Make your closet more eco-friendly ▶ Make a lifestyle change to improve your health FEBRUARY / MARCH 2019 / FREE ISSUE

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Defining moments...

Over the years, there are defining moments that change the course of one’s life forever. We like to think most of these are choices we make, and that they are generally moments of happiness, things that change our lives for the better.

Whether it be a conscious decision on an education or career choice, exchanging wedding vows with your loved one, or experiencing the birth of a child, or even relocating to a more suitable area for your lifestyle or retiring from a long career – these moments change our lives.

Unfortunately, however, there are also defining moments that bring deep sadness and hurt. Tragedies occur every day – people affected by health matters, injury or even death in fires or accidents. The loss of loved ones touches our lives all too often, and sometimes in ways we don’t understand.

The course of life can change in an instant, the blink of an eye.

One never knows what life may bring. It’s not something we plan for, ask for or prepare for – it just happens.

In this issue of Live it! Magazine, we talk with Bridget and Jen, advocates for victims of crime who are thrown into the justice system through no fault of their own, an unexpected experience for which they are totally unprepared.

Along with Missy – by way of sharing her family’s story – these women hope to raise awareness of available services, and of people ready to help victims navigate the judicial system and more during times of high emotion, stress and need.

Tips of how to interact with victims of crime are also offered, as well as insight on how to move forward.

As Kandiyohi County Attorney Shane Baker points out, victims of crime don’t ask to be thrust into the judicial process. They just are.

In addition, Erica shares tips for a sustainable wardrobe, and Anne, our resident foodie, shares “sheet pan meals” – among the recipes most often saved by readers in 2018 according to the New York Times.

All that and more in this issue of Live it! Magazine!

If you have a topic you’d like to see in Live it!, send your story ideas to liveit@ wctrib.com. We love to hear from our readers. You can also “like” us on Facebook or send us a tweet @Liveitmag.

Life in west central Minnesota … it really is a beautiful thing …

! t i Live

Sharon Bomstad Live it! Editor

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Watch for our next issue out April 5, 2019.

May we publish your letter?

On ‘Foodies’ cover story:

(Last) February the folks at Live it! Magazine stopped by for an interview about local food bloggers.

I was so happy to have been featured … Thank you to Carolyn Lange Hatlestad and Erica Dischino for hanging out and creating this beautiful article!

- Christine Roodie, The Rustic Foodie blogger

On ‘Finding her voice’ cover story:

Even though I have known and admired Helen Grothe for years through our association in Toastmasters, I didn’t know all of her story. It was inspiring to read how she overcame tragedy and turned it into triumph in Toastmasters.

She makes me want to be a better listener, a better speaker and a better person. Thank you for publishing this encouraging article.

- Diane Windingland, Immediate Past District Director, District 6, Toastmasters International

Great photos and coverage of Helen’s Toastmasters experience. Good personal stories used. Enjoyed it.

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- Anne Groetsch, Area 12 Director, Sergeant-At-Arms for Daylighters Toastmasters

Editor’s note:

We love to hear from our readers.

“Like” us on Facebook, send us a tweet with your comments or even a new story idea, or email us at liveit@ wctrib.com. Watch for our next issue due out April 5, 2019.

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Liveit!

MAGAZINE

Can’t Live without it!

A publication of the West Central Tribune

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Magazine Editor To contact Live it! call 320-235-1150 or email liveit@wctrib.com

Writing & Photography Carolyn Lange Erica Dischino Anne Polta Lu Fransen

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To advertise, call 320-235-1150 | fax 320-235-6769 or email a listed consultant.

Administration

Steven Ammermann, Publisher Kelly Boldan, Editor

2208 W. Trott Ave., Willmar MN 56201 Volume 8, Issue 1

Copyright Š 2019 West Central Tribune Live it! magazine All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained.

Cover Story

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They are fierce advocates for victims of crimes

February 2019, Volume 8, Issue 1

WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURING

6

6 Advocating for victims 12 What are a victim’s rights?

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Protect the Earth

24 Pinterest, NYT winners

DEPARTMENTS 3 READER’S MAILBAG What we hear

15

from our readers

12 Q&A: Understand the rights of victims of crime

15 STYLE IT! Strive for eco-friendly wardrobe 16 Health & Fitness: Not too late for new you 18 DIY Anytime gifts for anyone 20 MONEY MATTERS Watch out for financial scams

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22 SPIRITS ‘Hold Out Your Hand’ 24 EAT IT! Meal-in-a-pan recipes top the charts

27 READ IT! Winter reading rewards 28 WHAT’S HAPPENING? Mark your calendars

29 LIFE HAPPENS Book opens mind to new ideas

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Photography by Erica Dischino

A voice for victims Crime victims have rights and advocates make sure those rights are protected

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Missy Bodin

By Carolyn Lange clange@wctrib.com

T

here are two distinct stages in the lives of Missy Bodin’s extended family.

Pre-crash.

Post-crash.

The horrendous minutes between those stages killed three family members – a grandmother, a mother and a sweet little girl – and changed the lives of their families forever.

“There’s no way to describe the impact of losing three women. Three generations of women,” said Missy. “It impacts absolutely everything.”

On Aug. 17, 2012, Marta Stoffers, 68, of Atwater; her daughter-in-law Michelle Hoffman, 40, of Eden Prairie; and Hoffman’s 8-year-old daughter, Julia, were killed when their vehicle was struck on U.S. Highway 12 east of Willmar.

Julia’s brother, Jason, who was 5 years old at the time, was also seriously injured in the fiery crash before he was pulled out of the van by a passer-by. Jason is now 12 and doing well, said Missy.

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The deaths of Marta, Michelle and Julia – at the hands of a drunk driver – put their families on a long, grief-filled journey.

“We miss them every day,” Missy said. “We talk about them all the time.”

The journey The journey of grief was made more stressful because multiple criminal charges were filed against the drunk driver, which thrust the family into the judicial system and into the courtroom every time the defendant had a hearing.

Thankfully, said Missy, victim service advocates in the Kandiyohi County Attorney’s office informed her family of their rights as victims and led them through the complicated legal process from beginning to end.

Submitted photo Marta Stoffers, 68, of Atwater, back right, her daughter-inlaw Michelle Hoffman, 40, of Eden Prairie, and Hoffman’s 8-year-old daughter, Julia, were killed when their vehicle was struck by a drunk driver on Aug. 17, 2012.

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Quiet presence of strength Bridget Pederson and Jen Hovland have a calm presence about them.

Yet they are fierce advocates for victims of crimes.

“If we didn’t feel called to the work, we wouldn’t be doing it,” said Jen. “But we are both very passionate about what we do.”

The two women help people who have been harmed or have experienced loss as a result of a crime, such as assault, domestic abuse, homicide, criminal vehicular operation, robbery, arson and harassment.

Jen Hovland

We walk with people through the muck.

– JEN HOVLAND, KANDIYOHI COUNTY VICTIM SERVICES ADVOCATE

Missy said it would’ve been impossible for her grieving family to navigate the judicial system without the county service – which is offered free to victims of a variety of crimes.

“You can’t think logically or rationally when you’re in such a state of pain,” said Missy.

“Everybody in the county was just amazing.

They just took care of us,” she said. “They were always available to answer questions and let us know what was going on, every step of the way.”

WAYS TO HELP A VICTIM OF CRIME

What TO SAY to a crime victim to show support

• I believe you.

• How can I help?

• I’m glad you’re safe now.

• It wasn’t your fault.

• Things may never be the same, but they can get better.

• I can’t imagine what this has been like for you.

• I’m sorry this happened to you.

• It’s OK to cry.

What NOT TO SAY to a crime victim because it can cause shame and blame

• I know how you feel • You’re lucky that …

• It’ll take some time, but you’ll get over it.

• Tell me more details of what happened.

• Out of tragedies, good things happen.

• Time heals all wounds • You need to forgive and move on.

Ways to help a victim of crime • Listen. Don’t be judgemental.

• Let them know it wasn’t their fault.

• Be patient. It will take time to deal with the crime.

• Don’t ask probing questions, which can lead to re-victimization.

• Don’t tell them what they should or shouldn’t do but help them think through options.

• Reassure the victim they are loved.

- Kandiyohi County Victim Services Office

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You can’t think logically or rationally when you’re in such a state of pain.

– MISSY BODIN

That help includes informing victims of their rights and helping them exercise those rights.

Being a victim in the judicial process can be frightening if they don’t know what to expect, they said.

Bridget and Jen help victims understand the criminal prosecution process and their options when it comes to such things as attending court hearings, asking for restitution and presenting victim impact statements before a judge sentences a defendant.

They help victims of crimes ranging from shoplifting to murder and everything between.

Many of the people the women work with are victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse.

“It’s important to walk with people when they’re going through the most traumatic events of their lives,” said Jen. “We walk with people through the muck.”

I believe you

When law enforcement officers make contact with a crime victim, they are required to let victims know about the victim rights services.

If charges are filed, Jen and Bridget are notified about the case, given contact information for the victims and connect with them by phone, mail or in-person.

The women are not investigators and don’t ask victims to describe details about the crimes.

Instead, they listen to the victims to find out how the crime affected them, what their needs are, and to let them know they are believed.

They inform them of a variety of services, like counseling and financial reparations.

By having a victim-centered approach to upholding the laws, Kandiyohi County Attorney Shane Baker said issues important to the victim are taken into account when court hearings are scheduled or what kind of settlement or sentence victims want.

Baker said the values, views and feelings of crime victims are important to consider when

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Shane Baker

They’re the only individuals who didn’t ask to be part of the process.

– SHANE BAKER, KANDIYOHI COUNTY ATTORNEY

cases are settled in plea agreements “because they’re the only individuals who didn’t ask to be part of the process.”

“The defendants do it by committing the acts and we signed up for it as judges, public defenders and everyone else,” he said. “But victims don’t have that freedom.”

During the entire court process efforts are made to make sure the victims are “treated with dignity and respect,” said Jen. “Regardless of what’s happened to them – they didn’t deserve it.”

Sometimes charges are not filed because there may not be enough evidence for a conviction, and sometimes juries return not guilty verdicts.

That can be another hit to victims but it doesn’t mean the crime didn’t happen, Bridget said. She and Jen are there to help victims during those times too.

Victims “need to hear somebody say ‘we believe you’,” said Jen. “And that it’s not your fault,” added Bridget.

A voice in the courtroom

Paul Wickenhauser, the driver of the vehicle that killed Missy’s family members, was originally charged with 16 crimes, including 15 felonies of criminal vehicular operation.

He eventually pleaded guilty to three felony charges of criminal vehicular operation and having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more within two hours of driving.

Missy said members of her family were at every court hearing and several of them read victim impact statements prior to the judge handing down the sentence of 67 months in prison and $40,000 in fines and restitution.

Missy said writing and reading her statement was painful because it ripped open the wounds of loss she felt for her mother, sister-in-law and little niece.

But she decided to do it because she thought Wickenhauser, who was 21 years old at the time of the crash, was remorseful and that her words could make a difference for him.

“He will live with what he did for the rest of his life, but I don’t want him to waste the rest of his life,” Missy said. “I want him to do something good. Whether he does or doesn’t, that’s irrelevant at this point, but that would be my wish for him.”

Bridget said she finds victims of crime typically “aren’t vindictive” and are “some of the most caring and understanding and empathetic people that I’ve met.”

When it comes to sentences for crimes, some

Sharon Bomstad

victims may want a long jail sentence for the defendant and some only want the defendant to admit they did the crime and apologize, said Jen. Bridget said oftentimes when the case is done, victims are disappointed to discover the sentence wasn’t their “saving grace” and that, in the end, they “don’t feel fixed” because there’s “no way to make someone completely whole again, because you can’t erase what happened.”

The sentence doesn’t reverse the violation, said Jen, but the process of knowing their rights and having a voice can help victims move forward with their lives.

Carolyn Lange is a features writer for Live it! Magazine, and a reporter with the West Central Tribune in Willmar.

Good Health Starts with Great Water!

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QA &

Know your rights

By Carolyn Lange clange@wctrib.com

B

ridget Pederson and Jen Hovland coordinate the Kandiyohi County Victim Services program.

The program was started here around 2006 and expanded through a grant in 2017-18.

We asked Bridget to help Live it! readers understand the rights victims of crime have and how this program can help them.

What are a victim’s rights in Minnesota?

Bridget: The right to be informed, notified, give input, request restitution and be part of the criminal prosecution process.

In my opinion, the most important, is the right to use your voice in the courtroom to inform everyone about the impact being a crime victim has on a person’s life.

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We want to reduce the negative effects of going through the system by being available and answering questions.

The court process can be long and confusing.

What are the important things for crime victims to be aware of during that process?

Bridget: All questions are good questions. We expect people do not know how the system works.

Most people don’t study the ins and outs of the criminal justice system until they are thrown into it and for a crime victim it can be confusing, tumultuous and re-victimizing.

We want to reduce the negative effects of going through the system by being available and answering questions.

I want people to know they have rights and to be proactive about their rights – be the squeaky wheel.

What is done to protect a crime victim’s safety after a crime is reported and the case moves through the criminal justice system?

Bridget: A victim’s safety needs are unique to the individual and safety is defined by them. Having said that, the office takes steps to protect victims by using initials or identifiers like “juvenile female A” when writing criminal complaints, and we are careful when using a victim’s identity in open court.

We attempt communication with crime victims outside of the court setting to get their input, and we check with them to find out what safety needs they have.

We make referrals to community resources when warranted and inform victims about what is available to them and how to access it.

Prosecutors have the safety of the victim and the public in mind when they make decisions and recommendations.

Law enforcement officers are equipped with the knowledge of community resources and have information for crime victims they can give at the scene of the crime.

One of our biggest community partners is Safe Avenues which is a local, not-for-profit agency that helps victims of sexual and domestic violence with services that are free and confidential.

We also have a great team from the Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office who provide safety and security at the courthouse. They help us ensure that victims who participate in or observe court hearings don’t have to share space with defendants.

What financial help is available for victims of crime?

Bridget: This depends on the type of victimization.

Sometimes there is insurance that can assist a crime victim.

A crime victim can request restitution to be paid back to them from the defendant, which cannot be ordered until the sentencing phase of a case, and is a lengthy process.

For victims of violent crime there is the Minnesota Crime Victims’ Reparations Board that can assist with some of the costs associated with victimization like counseling, medical bills, funeral costs and loss of wages/support. There are also limited emergency funds throughout the state that can be accessed in specific cases.

Are victims notified when an offender gets out of jail?

Bridget: Yes and no.

Kandiyohi County Jail does a great job notifying

victims of domestic and sexual assault cases when an offender has been released from the local jail. Victims of other crimes do not get notified automatically, however, the Sheriff’s Office posts the jail roster on its web page.

There is the VINE system, which stands for Victim Information and Notification Everyday, where people can call or sign up for notifications.

The Department of Corrections has a “Minnesota Choice System” where crime victims can sign up to receive notification, and an offender locator tab to search the location and case manager of a defendant.

I want victims of crime to know that notification is not always automatic and takes some “opting in” on their part. We can assist in navigating these systems.

What does it mean for the victim if an offender is not charged with a crime after it’s been reported?

Bridget: This is a difficult and frustrating event and each case is unique. Some incidents are reported but no suspect can be identified or caught.

Some incidents get referred to the county attorney’s office for charging but a legal decision has been made that the evidence does not allow for proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

A common misconception is that individual community members “press charges,” but that is not true. Law enforcement takes reports and investigates crimes and then refers them to the city or county prosecutor and that office determines if charges can be brought against an individual.

The victim of the crime has a right to know the charging decision and status of a case, but many times this process takes longer than victims expect.

I want people to know they can communicate with our office to find out what the status of the case is. That can eliminate fear, worry and frustration regardless of the outcome of the legal decision.

There are still resources available to crime victims even if a suspect is not caught or charged and we want the opportunity to inform victims what’s available to them.

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Style it!

How to make your wardrobe more sustainable

By Erica Dischino edischino@wctrib.com

February means love is in the air, so why not give some love to the Earth?

Creating a more sustainable wardrobe helps to reduce carbon emissions, saves energy and cuts down on waste. According to Forbes, in 2015, the apparel industry was the cause of 10 percent of global carbon emissions and is one of the largest of industrial polluters in the world. But, making your closet more eco-friendly is not as hard as you think. Here are some ways to turn your wardrobe into a more ethical one.

Shop vintage A customer sifts through used clothing at New 2 You Thrift Store Jan. 3 in Willmar.

Used clothing shops have some of the cutest clothes on the market. And you’ll reduce your carbon footprint too. Check out your local thrift store or consignment shop to find fun vintage pieces without the waste.

DIY

When in doubt, make it yourself! There are many things that you can make whether it’s a new shirt or dying – with plant-based dye – an old pair of pants for a fresh look.

Do some brand research

Check the label.

There is a lot of information we don’t know about where our clothing comes from. Luckily, there are many sustainable, fair trade brands that prioritize fashion that care about the environment. Research companies online to find out which align with making your wardrobe more sustainable.

Buy with intention

Clothes that are trendy for only a short period of time are often made with cheap materials. Forget fast fashion and think quality over quantity. Searching for items that can be worn over the course of years, decades even, can help create a greener world.

Conduct some brand research before buying clothes.

Check material

Don’t forget to check the label! Look for natural fabrics such as linen, organic cotton, wool, hemp and recycled materials to ensure that it’s eco-friendly.

Take care

Well-kept clothes are ones that will last longer.

Take a longer time between washes so it allows the fibers to weaken more slowly. Also, try natural laundry detergent. Search for labels that ensure the soap is biodegradable, plant-based and phosphate-free.

Being selective with your laundry detergent is one way to make your wardrobe more sustainable.

Erica Dischino is the photographer for Live It! Magazine and the West Central Tribune.

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- Health & Fitness -

Habit-forming success tips for 2019

By Amber Silva

I

t is February, New Year’s celebrations have come and gone. Resolution season has passed and you may find yourself back to your old ways, posting the meme on Facebook “I messed up already, 2020 is going to be my year for sure.”

If this sounds like you, take a moment and think of what went wrong. Did you set unrealistic expectations? Did you have a slip-up and say the heck with it?

Remember, if you plan to make a lifestyle change to improve your health and wellness you can do that any time throughout the year, not just at New Year’s. Also, be realistic with your goals

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and have a plan. Here are a few guidelines I like to remind clients: 1) Think Small. Baby step changes are the best for long-term success. If you make gradual changes you are more likely to stick with the changes, you made. Think of a time you did a drastic diet and had to cut out a number of things at once, how did you fare? Did you crave items and eventually give in and go overboard on those items? Next thing you know you are off your diet plan and giving up. Be realistic when making changes.

to not wanting to do them, whereas if you have fun, the more excited you are to complete your activities and reach your goals.

If you are planning to start a New Year’s resolution now or perhaps restart one you had in January, here are some steps to success: 1) Identify the change you want to make and set your overall goal.

2) Build your steps to success. Remember to make them baby steps so it is a gradual change and not a sudden change – and be realistic in your baby steps.

3) Identify resources to assist you in success.

This includes having supportive people in your life to help you reach your goal.

4) Follow through with your plan. Remember to give yourself grace where needed, don’t let little slip-ups hinder you from your overall success.

Changing habits takes time, so be patient and persistent. Many times we get into our own way, but carry on with a positive mindset and well-set plan. Best of luck on your resolutions!

Amber Chevalier Silva is the Wellness Coordinator and Health and Wellness Coach at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar.

2) Don’t Beat Yourself Up. Many people slip up on a routine and then use that as an excuse to quit what was started. You need to remember to pick yourself up and carry on. If you missed a workout in your string of days, be sure to do it the next day. The key to success is to not let your minor faults hinder you from your greater goal.

3) Have Confidence in Yourself. It is common practice for us to have negative thoughts about ourselves, but if we spin those thoughts to positive ones, the greater our chances of achieving our goals. Positive self-talk can make or break us at times.

4) Have Fun. Seriousness lingers heavy as we work toward a goal, but don’t forget to have fun along the way. If you view things too seriously, they become tasks which over time could lead

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Do- it-yourself Here’s an idea for a perfect anytime gift

By Lu Fransen

A

re you sometimes looking for an easy and inexpensive gift to make for someone, say for birthday, bridal shower or even next Christmas? This one’s for you!

Here’s what you need: 100% cotton dish towels, acrylic paints, textile medium, rubber stamps, foam brush, spoon, small containers. The brands you buy don’t matter.

If you’re going to use multiple colors of paint, you can either wash the foam brush, spoon and container after each color or you can use new ones and throw the others away.

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Close-up of a stamp with paint on it

Variety of stamped towels

I just kept a big bowl of water and some old towels next to me for rinsing and drying.

First, put some paint in the container. Just a small amount because it goes a long way and you can always add more if needed. Next, drop in some textile medium. My bottle says 2 parts paint to 1 part medium. I just eyeball it, but you can measure if you want.

Stir to mix and then, using the foam brush, cover your rubber stamp with the mixture. Place the stamp straight down onto the cloth and apply a gentle downward pressure, then lift straight up.

If you want to create an ombré look, use the stamp again without adding more paint.

I suggest buying an extra towel so you can practice on it first to see if you like the color (some colors will stamp lighter than you thought they would and others will be darker).

As soon as you are done with the stamper, wash it with soap and water. I used blue masking tape to help me mark where I wanted to stamp on some of the towels, and others I freehanded.

This would be especially useful if you’re going to

stamp words out of individual letters.

The good news is you can find towels real cheap, so buy lots, and if you don’t like it just start over!

Let it dry for a couple of hours, then heat set it following the instructions on the textile medium bottle. I used an old dish towel, laid it over the new one, had my iron on high and ironed for 20 seconds.

This would be a fun project for kids to do too – along with your help.

Grandparents, daycare moms and many others would love to receive these towels, perhaps along with some new kitchen utensils wrapped in the towel. My samples are for a daycare mom, a pet lover, a daughter who loves the big tree next to her house and for ME! Finally, you can also do this on pillow cases and T-shirts. Maybe an activity at your child’s next birthday party.

Lu follows in her mother’s footsteps of unwinding and relaxing by crafting and creating. Creativity is like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it becomes!

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- Money Matters -

Protect vulnerable family members from scam artists Submitted By Jeanne Ashburn

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I

f you have older family members whose cognitive functions or decision-making abilities have declined, or who are lonely or recently widowed, you might need to help protect them against financial scams.

What steps should you take?

First of all, try to gain a good sense of their overall financial activity. Look for red flags, such as a reluctance to discuss money matters, consistently unpaid bills, unexplained withdrawals, mysterious wire transfers or a sudden need to purchase large quantities of gift cards.

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And watch out for new “best friends” or caretakers who show an unusual interest in your loved one’s finances. Whether or not you’ve observed any of these activities, you can help your elderly family members by making these moves: ▶ Have checks (such as Social Security payments) directly deposited. You can help your family members avoid a lot of potential trouble by having their checks deposited directly into their bank accounts. ▶ Seek permission to become a joint account owner. By becoming a joint account owner on your elderly family members’ checking and savings accounts, you can review statements for suspicious activity. Of course, your loved ones may be initially reluctant to add your name, but if you have a good relationship with them, you should be able to explain the benefits. ▶ Shred bank statements, credit card offers and notices of lottery or sweepstakes winnings. One of the most useful gifts you can give to your elderly family members may be a shredder. Encourage them to use it to shred old bank statements, credit card offers and other financial documents. ▶ Get on a “do not call” list. Telephone scammers are persistent and devious. By registering your family members’ house and cell phones at www. donotcall.gov, you may be able to reduce their exposure to unwanted calls. ▶ Obtain power of attorney. By creating a power of attorney, your loved ones can designate you or another trusted relative or friend to assist with their finances now – for day-to-day assistance and protection from scammers – and later, should they become incapacitated.

Again, you will need to employ some sensitivity

when discussing this issue. ▶ Check references of caretakers. As mentioned above, some caretakers are, unfortunately, dishonest. Before you hire one, check out this person’s references. And even when you do, be careful – scam artists have been known to use accomplices as references, so you will need to be thorough in your research and questions. ▶ Get to know your family members’ financial advisors. If possible, become acquainted with your older family members’ financial advisors. Any reputable advisor will welcome a connection with their clients’ loved ones. And if you are involved in any estate plans, this multi-generational relationship will prove beneficial for everyone. ▶ Ask to meet any new “friends” they have met online. When someone is lonely, they become vulnerable to online friendships. Sometimes, these new friends make promises of meeting, but never show – and then they suddenly need money for one reason or another. It can be challenging to guard against all threats posed by the scammers of the world. But by staying alert and taking the appropriate preventive actions, you may be able to help safeguard your loved ones’ financial security.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Jeanne Ashburn is a financial adviser with Edward Jones in Willmar.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Magazine

21

- Spirits! -

Stand up for ... someone or something

By Ron Skjong

O

ne of my favorite singers is Brandi Carlile.

Music without a melody, without meaningful lyrics and with no beat, is just a bunch of musical notes strung together. Yes, those notes may be masterful and full of musicianship but, I want something I can hum to, relate to and feel.

Brandi Carlile does that to me. I have recommended her music to many people because it strikes a chord in me. To repeat, I can hum it, relate to it and her music makes me feel something.

Carlile’s latest CD (By The Way, I Forgive You) offers a song entitled “Hold Out Your Hand.” It is a stirring musical piece about bringing people

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Magazine

together to work for a better tomorrow. It’s all about holding out your hand to support one another in the face of life’s challenges.

Why does this song resonate with me? Because I can hum to it, I can relate to it and I can feel it.

Every time I hear the song, I want to hold out my hand to someone and be there for them. I want to be a proponent for someone who needs help – someone who needs an advocate.

As Carlile’s music has a message for us, I believe there’s a message for all of us when it comes to our neighbors who are passionate enough about something that they’ll start a business and, in doing so, share their passion with the rest of us.

For instance …

I don’t think this will come as a surprise to you, but I’m very supportive of our local folks who live their passions through wineries and breweries.

Their passion becomes a reality to us as we sit down in their taprooms and wine tasting areas to sample their products – we taste localism and the fruits of these brewer’s and vintner’s labor.

New London’s Goat Ridge Brewery is an excellent example of a local business producing tasty brews and providing a venue for entertainment.

During the year, various musicians entertain the brewery’s customers as they sip on the various tasty beers and nod their heads or sing along with the performers.

I’m a fan of a pilsner and Goat Ridge’s Firehall German Lager Pilsner is an easy-drinking, clean and crisp brew with just a touch of hops. It’s a fine beer advocating for a few moments of your time.

Another GRB beer I’m partial to is “The Fall” IPA. It’s a well-balanced beer with nice caramel tasting malt that pairs pleasantly with the sweetness of some red rye.

Not too far from the brewery is Glacial Ridge Winery with its nice selection of wines throughout the year. I recently tasted a bottle of Maui Blanc – a pineapple-based wine from Hawaii – and it reminded me of Glacial Ridge’s MN Maui. MN Maui is a Brianna-based sweet white wine that has nice flavors of pineapple. Maybe this wine is a subconscious advocate for us to visit Hawaii?

Another Glacial Ridge wine I’ve found enjoyable is Green Lake Breeze. With it’s subtle strawberry taste, this white zinfandel might be an enjoyable reminder that summer is not too far away and soon you’ll be able to sip the wine as you look across blue water rather than white ice.

Another brewery I find comforting is Foxhole Brewhouse in downtown Willmar. It’s nice to be able to sit and watch beer being made – and it’s more enjoyable if you can be sipping their Cari Me Home, a double IPA. With more than 70 IBU’s (International Bitterness Units), it has definitely got some hops, and this is noticed in the great citrus taste of the beer.

As much as I enjoy an IPA, it’s winter and my mind goes to the dark side … of beer, that is.

Foxhole satisfies me with its Big Boy Porter – an outstanding imperial porter with aromas and tastes of chocolate, but without too much sweetness. It’s a big pour that can stand up to the cold winds of winter and make you feel welcome and warm.

If you feel like going south a bit from Willmar

(no, not that far south!), I recommend stopping

by Clara City’s Hinterland Vineyards during its seasonal opening period. Fortunately I’ve been able to enjoy wines from this winery and one of my favorites is Wrath – a barrel-aged red wine with nice oak, vanilla and spice flavors.

Along with Wrath, Happy Creek White – a nice semi-sweet white – with its green apple and pear tastes, is very good. I think both of these wines are good proponents of what good-tasting wine should be for those of us who enjoy a local tasting adventure.

There are many fine local businesses we need to stand up for and, to paraphrase the words of Brandi Carlile, let’s reach out and hold the hands of these people for the betterment of everyone.

Let’s all reach out and be an advocate for those in need – whatever that “need” is.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!

Ron Skjong writes primarily about the wonderful world of wine but likes to explore various spirits and beers, too. He is married and has four grown children. While stationed in Germany, he was introduced to German wines and from that introduction, a lifelong pursuit developed to find that perfect bottle of wine.

Magazine

23

Eat it!

Sheet pan meals deliver winning combination of ease, flavor, versatility

By Anne Polta

apolta@wctrib.com

G

uess who’s enjoying a moment in the spotlight these days – the humble sheet pan, the busy household’s latest answer to fast, flavorful meals.

The exploding popularity of the sheet pan dinner can be seen in the volume of recipes that have sprung up in just the past few years, from Pinterest and online cooking sites to entire cookbooks devoted to the many variations of the meal-in-a-pan. When the New York Times took stock of the recipes most often saved by readers in 2018, a sheet pan entree of chicken with sweet potatoes and peppers was among the top five.

Think of the sheet pan dinner as the oven

version of one-pot cooking. The ingredients, typically consisting of a protein such as meat, fish or tofu, are combined in a heavy-duty baking pan with vegetables, seasonings and some type of sauce or marinade, and then baked together, allowing juices and flavors to temptingly mingle.

Preparation is simple and the completed meal can go straight from the oven to the table, eliminating intensive clean-up in the kitchen afterward.

This trio of recipes demonstrates one of the best things of all – the endless versatility of the sheet pan dinner and its ability to lend itself to combinations of flavors and ingredients from around the globe.

Pepper-Lime Shrimp Reminiscent of the Caribbean coast, this tastes good year round.

Use asparagus, broccoli, broccolini or a combination. This can either be served on its own or accompanied by rice on the side.

1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 3 medium limes 1/4 cup butter, melted Generous dash of ground cayenne pepper 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed 1 pound broccoli, cut into small florets 1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro Squeeze 1/3 cup juice from the limes; you should have about 1 full lime left over. Thinly slice any remaining lime fruit and set aside.

In a small bowl, combine lime juice, melted butter, cayenne pepper and salt.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease an 18 by 13 by 1-inch sheet pan. Arrange asparagus, broccoli and shrimp on sheet pan. Top with lime slices and pour the melted butter mixture over the vegetables and shrimp. Stir lightly to ensure ingredients are adequately coated.

Bake until the shrimp turn pink and vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

Serves 4.

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Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetables Some preparation is involved in this Asian-inspired sheet pan entree, but once the pan goes into the oven, the rest of the process is a breeze. Be sure to use low-sodium soy sauce for the marinade

and avoid adding any extra salt, otherwise the dish will be too salty.

You will probably have marinade left over after brushing it onto the chicken. If desired, you can save it and drizzle some or all of it over the contents of the sheet pan before serving.

Marinade 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 4 tablespoons honey 2 cloves garlic, minced 1½ tablespoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon grated or minced fresh ginger Chicken and vegetables 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half crosswise Ground pepper to taste 2-3 cups broccoli florets 3/4 cup carrots, thinly sliced on the diagonal 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 tablespoon sesame oil Green onions, thinly sliced Sesame seeds

For the marinade, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, honey, garlic, sesame oil and ginger in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then gradually add the cornstarch while whisking continuously.

Simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease an 18 by 13 by 1-inch sheet pan or line with a sheet of parchment paper.

Season each piece of chicken with pepper, then brush generously with marinade. Arrange chicken on prepared sheet pan and roast in oven for 15 minutes.

While chicken is cooking, combine the broccoli and carrots in a

large bowl and lightly toss with a tablespoonful of sesame oil.

Remove pan from oven, brush chicken with more marinade, then turn over each piece and brush with marinade again.

Arrange the vegetables and pineapple around the chicken in a single layer. Return pan to oven and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Remove pan from oven. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and slice into strips. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pineapple, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Serves 4.

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25

Italian Pork Chop Bake The sheet pan dinner takes a trip to Italy with this entree featuring staple ingredients – pork chops, potatoes, vegetables – and adding an assertive twist of flavor. In a pinch, frozen whole green beans can substitute for fresh.

5 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Salt to taste 4 bone-in pork loin chops, about 1½ pounds total 2 medium-sized russet potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 cup panko bread crumbs 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 cup whole cherry tomatoes 1/2 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, cut into slivers (optional) Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease an 18 by 13 by 1-inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of the olive oil with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning and salt to taste. Brush a generous amount of the mixture on the pork chops, coating both sides of each chop, then set aside, covered, in the refrigerator.

Add potatoes to the remaining mixture of olive oil and seasonings and toss well to coat. Arrange potatoes in a single layer in prepared sheet pan and roast 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until tender.

While the potatoes are baking, combine the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl with the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Add pork to pan with potatoes and top each pork chop with the bread crumb mixture, pressing down to adhere. Add the tomatoes and green beans to the pan; sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake 12 to 18 minutes until the pork is no longer pink and the potatoes are browned and tender. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of the pork should read at least 145 degrees F. Top with slivers of fresh basil if desired.

Serves 4.

Anne Polta may be reached at apolta@wctrib.com or follow her on Twitter @AnnePolta

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Magazine

- Read it! -

Reading rewards can include giving back

By Syrena Maranell

T

here is a chill in the air and snow on the ground. That can only mean one thing – it’s time for Winter Reading. This program rewards you for what you love doing – reading.

Participants will receive up to two prizes for every five books they read or listen to. It’s easy to participate since all you have to do is write down the titles of the books you read. Audiobooks, eBooks and regular books all count towards the total.

At the end of the program, all the reading records will be entered in the grand prize drawing. Adults 18 and over, stop at the Information Desk through March 2 to participate or print a reading record from www.willmarpubliclibrary.org.

Giving back

Looking for a way to give back to the Willmar

Public Library in 2019?

Each year library staff pull together a wish list of items for the library. In the past this has mostly included books and movies, but has expanded to games and other items of need. There are options for all ages: children, teens and adults.

Items may be purchased and donated, or money may be donated to purchase necessary items. This is a simple way to help the library, and they will even place your name or an “In Honor Of” or “In Memory Of” bookplate in the item if you wish.

Syrena Maranell is the Adult Services Librarian at the Willmar Public Library. For more information on these audiobooks, swing by the Willmar Public Library. The librarians are there to help you find your new favorite author.

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Check it!Out!

Whitney Music Center Every Thursday Spicer, 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays through March 14, Whitney Music Center, Willmar; free music concert by different individuals and groups.

Glacial Ridge Winery Every Friday Spicer, 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays through March 15, Glacial Ridge Winery, state Highway 23 between New London and Spicer; free music concert by different individuals and groups.

Tami Lee Hughes Feb. 1 Morris, 7:30 p.m., Edson Auditorium, University of Minnesota; Tami Lee Hughes presents “The Legacy Show” celebrating African-American composers past and present; call 320-589-6077 or online at tickets.umn. edu.

Comedy Night Feb. 2 Dawson, 7 p.m., Memorial Auditorium; Winterfest Comedy Night; 320312-2311.

‘Suds’ Feb. 7-10, 14-17 Willmar, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7-9, 14-16; 2 p.m. Feb. 10, 17, The Barn Theatre, 321 Fourth St. S.W., downtown; “Suds” stage production; 320-235-9500 or thebarntheatre.com.

Green Lake Bluegrass Feb. 9 New London, 7:30 p.m., Little Theatre; annual antidote to cabin fever by the Green Lake Bluegrass Band; tickets online at www.newlondonlittletheatre. com.

Cirque Mechanics Feb. 9 St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m., Escher Auditorium, College of St. Benedict; inspired by the modern circus, this one-of-a-kind show celebrates all things mechanical with fun, frolic and stories of American ingenuity; call 320-3635777 or online at www.csbsju.edu/wow.

Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra Feb. 10 Glenwood, 3 to 7 p.m., Lakeside Ballroom; Winter Dance Club open to all; music by Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra; $10 per person, $5 ages 17-30; no jeans or shorts.

We Shall Overcome Feb. 15 St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m., Escher Auditorium, College of St. Benedict; a soulful range of African American music traditions interwoven with spoken word from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s recorded speeches; featuring a joint campus and community choir; call 320-363-5777 or online at www.csbsju. edu/wow.

‘Three Ages’ Feb. 17 New London, 2 p.m., Little Theatre; “Three Ages”, the original 1923 movie; freewill donation.

Carrie Newcomer Feb. 23 Dawson, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Auditorium; Dawson-Boyd Arts Association presents an evening with Carrie Newcomer and pianist Gary Walters; 320312-2311.

‘Ring of Kerry’ Feb. 23 New London, 7:30 p.m., Little Theatre; concert by “Ring of Kerry”; tickets online at www.newlondonlittletheatre.com.

The Westerlies Feb. 23 Collegeville, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Theatre, St. John’s University; the brass group explores jazz, roots and chamber music influences to create the rarest of hybrids: music that’s intellectually rigorous, freshly hip and tenderly folksy; call 320-363-5777 or online at www.csbsju.edu/wow.

Polynesian Paradise Dancers March 2 Morris, 7:30 p.m., Edson Auditorium, University of Minnesota; traditional dances and music of the Polynesian Island; call 320-589-6077 or online at tickets.umn.edu.

Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra March 3 Willmar, 3 p.m., WEAC; winter concert “Fish Tales” with narrator Kevin Kling; adults $10, students $5; www.willmarorchestra.com.

West Central Concert Series March 15 Willmar, 7:30 p.m., WEAC; West Central Concert series presents the “Lysander Piano Trio”; for more information email wcconcerts@gmail.com; $20 at the door.

Delfeayo Marsalis March 16 St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m., Escher Auditorium, College of St. Benedict; the trombone-playing member of the current generation of Marsalis jazz musicians, assembled this best-of-the-best jazz orchestra 10 years ago to celebrate the musical heritage of New Orleans jazz, blues and groove; call 320-363-5777 or online at www.csbsju.edu/wow.

‘Charade’ March 17 New London, 2 p.m., Little Theatre; “Charade,” a 1963 movie; freewill donation.

Reduced Shakespeare Company March 23 Collegeville, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Theatre, St. John’s University; this irreverent, fast-paced romp through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies is a wild and memorable ride that will leave you breathless and helpless with laughter; call 320-363-5777 or online at www.csbsju. edu/wow.

Velvet Brass Band March 24 Glenwood, 3 to 7 p.m., Lakeside Ballroom; Winter Dance Club open to all, music by Velvet Brass Band; $10 per person, $5 ages 17-30; no jeans or shorts.

Dali Quartet March 29 Collegeville, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Theatre, St. John’s University; features all Latin composers to create an extraordinary evening of strings that takes audiences on a passionate journey of rhythm and exploration; call 320-3635777 or online at www.csbsju.edu/wow.

‘Nana’s Naughty Knickers’ April 4-7, 11-14 Willmar, 7:30 p.m. April 4-6, 11-13; 2 p.m. April 7, 14, The Barn Theatre, 321 Fourth St. S.W., downtown; “Nana’s Naughty Knickers” stage production; 320-235-9500 or thebarntheatre.com.

‘Florence Foster Jenkins’ April 5-7, 12-14 New London, 7:30 p.m. April 5-6, 12-13; 2 p.m. April 7, 14, Little Theatre; “Glorious! The True Story of Florence Foster Jenkins” stage production; tickets on sale two weeks prior to the production.

Dakha Brakha April 6 Collegeville, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Theatre, St. John’s University; a Ukrainian folk-rock circus-punk sound that’s been lovingly described as “ethno-chaos” melds soulful folk songs with Balkin, African, Jazz and R&B; call 320-363-5777 or online at www.csbsju.edu/wow.

To list your event, email liveit@wctrib.com 28

Magazine

What’s Happenin’?

February-March 2019

- Life Happens -

Life’s purpose: Live selflessly, help others

By Claudette Larson, LICSW However, continued sessions revealed more and more information to him that ruled out any other possible psychiatric diagnosis explaining this phenomenon.

This woman also provided information to Dr. Weiss about himself and his family that she had absolutely no ability to know. Most importantly, however, was that this woman was able to provide information on what happens to the soul when we die and what the soul’s purpose is on this earth.

The details of this story are a book entitled “Many Lives, Many Masters.” I went home and purchased this book on Amazon that very evening.

I can tell you that I was determined to find the book to be a bunch of bunk and put it in the Goodwill pile. I simply have never subscribed to the concept of reincarnation as it goes against my spiritual principles as a practicing Catholic.

Well, I was wrong.

This book has opened my mind in many ways and I can tell you that I am the most surprised to say that.

The information within does not require a discarding of my faith or

most of my previous understanding of heaven. This book simply solidifies what I have believed all along: that one’s true purpose in life is to live as selflessly as possible, helping others who have less or are in need.

We certainly live in a world where there are many in need of our efforts. To think that each of us is but one person, but if each of us did our part expecting nothing in return then we are that much closer to fulfilling our soul’s heavenly destiny.

I like the sound of that.

Take care.

- Marketplace -

Call Today! 320-235-3949

Claudette Larson, LICSW, RPT is owner of Willow Creek Counseling in New London and has enjoyed working with children, teens and adults for the past 17 years.

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B

elieve it or not, I am not a big reader of self-help or wellness books during my free time.

When I come home at night, or in my spare time on weekends, I tend to read and watch fiction that entertains rather than teaches.

My husband will tell you the word “entertain” is a real stretch.

He doesn’t always enjoy my guilty pleasures and I certainly do not share in his love of football.

Tomato, tomahto, I say.

So, when I came upon an interview while listening to MPR in the car this summer featuring Brian L. Weiss, M.D., a psychiatrist who has written a series of books about his work and the concept of reincarnation, it wasn’t my usual cup of tea.

Because what does psychiatry have to do with reincarnation?

Yet, I didn’t change the channel.

According to this doctor, several decades ago, he had been treating a female patient who had been suffering for many months with anxiety and phobias using traditional psychotherapy.

Frustrated with the lack of success that this compliant and cooperative patient was having, Weiss decided to try hypnosis to see if past trauma was creating obstacles in her progress. While under hypnosis, the client proceeded to discuss events and circumstances that were not of her own current life.

As it turned out, she would describe experiences that ultimately turned out to be those of past lives lived and the process of her deaths during those lives.

Now, Dr. Weiss always considered himself to be a man of concrete science and resisted believing this was possible.

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29

MARK YOUR CALENDARS 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2019 & FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 Featured Speaker Paul Douglas

Returning Favorites...

Outstanding Senior Citizen award sponsored by West Central Sanitation, Dad’s Belgium Waffles sponsored by Heritage Bank, Kingery Family sponsored by Whitney Music, The Wendingers Polka Band sponsored by Pioneer Public TV, BINGO and much more!

Paul Douglas is a nationally-respected meteorologist, with 40 years of broadcast television and radio experience.

Brought to you by our generous sponsors:

WHITNEY MUSIC CENTER

Sponsorships and booth space available for more information contact Christie Steffel, Marketing Manager • csteffel@wctrib.com • 320-214-4317 30

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