Chicz May/June 2021

a Magazine for FUN women!

TM

May/June 2021

REAL

chicz of Douglas County Mommy &

ME CROSS-HATCHED

with love

TM

*www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9722797?dopt=Abstract

Adults with a primary care physician spend

33% less on healthcare.*

Stay healthy. Spend less.

Did you know? Patients who see a primary care physician have fewer hospitalizations, fewer surgeries, fewer visits to the ER, and more accurate treatment overall.

In fact, a primary care physician can help you: • Stay healthier as you age.

• Treat chronic conditions.

• Spot potential issues.

• See the right specialists when needed.

• Manage your care holistically.

• And lengthen your life span.

Here for Life

2 Chicz May/June 2021

Do you have one?

We’ve been expanding our team of primary care physicians and we’re excited to help you live healthier—with fewer healthcare costs.

Start here.

Click “Find A Provider” at AlomereHealth.com/AlexClinic – then call 320.763.5123 to schedule a wellness check (which is usually free with insurance!).

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

May/June 2021

Get outdoors!

It’s May, and that means it’s time to head for the great outdoors. We love spring and summer here in the lakes area, especially since our warm season is so short, so we need to make the most of it when we can.

In this issue, we head outdoors for camping and other activities.

Check out Al Edenloff’s article on picnicking and what wines to enjoy while munching under the summer sky. Or learn how to cook cinnamon rolls over a campfire.

Speaking of campfires, we bring you some tips on the proper way to build one to stay safe, and to keep your food safe while camping, we’ve added in some tips to cover that as well.

Check out Lowell Anderson’s The Learning Life and the power of starting small, while Karen Tolkkinen compares sustainable shopping bags in Finite Planet.

Andy Mellgren keeps you up to date on ready-to-drink cocktails in Andy’s Choice and Celeste Edenloff has a great article on EMT Crescent Westberg in Real Chicz of Douglas County.

These articles, and so much more, are just waiting for you in this issue of Chicz!

Enjoy!

Lori Mork, Chicz editor

To advertise in Chicz call 320.763.3133

Diann Drew, Publisher Lori Mork, Editor/Designer

Mother’s Day Gifts

12

IN THE MOOD FOR A PICNIC?

Inside this issue

14

Finite Planet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The Learning Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Mommy and me. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Andy’s Choice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 DIY TEMPERATURE BLANKET

HOW TO BUILD A CAMPFIRE

20

17

Food and drink

Classic peanut butter cookies. . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Make a tasty Chicken Pasta Caesar Salad. . . 14 10 food safety tips while camping. . . . . . . . 16 Campfire toasted cinnamon rolls. . . . . . . . . 17 Luscious lemon bar cheesecake. . . . . . . . . 28

Family

Equality in sports starts with respect. . . . . . 5 Cross-hatched with love. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Flowers for the mothers in your life . . . . . . 12 Special ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. . 12 A gift for every type of dad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 4 personalized presents for Father’s Day. 22

Outdoors

It’s camping season. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Fall in love with trail running. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 3 fat biking tips for beginners. . . . . . . . . . . . 24 5 summer activities to enjoy solo . . . . . . . . 24

Fashion

How to choose the right swimsuit. . . . . . . . 13

Pets

Is it time to love again?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Your writers

Chicz contributing writers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Life/Wellness

Prayer has power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Entertainment

Shop downtown Alexandria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Puzzles and games. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Chicz is a publication of

Echo Press, 225 7th Ave. East Alexandria, MN 56308 ©2021 Echo Press

Send your feedback to:

chiczmag@gmail.com

MEMORIAL DAY

21

Real Chicz of Douglas County

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May/June 2021 Chicz 3

Which shopping bags are the most

most sustainable?

By Karen Tolkkinen

You would think that deciding which shopping bag is most sustainable would be simple.

A reusable cotton one, right?

Well, not so fast.

A 2011 government study in the United Kingdom found that to be more environmentally sustainable than the standard grocery store plastic bag, that cotton bag would have to be used at least 131 times.

That number goes up if the plastic bag is re-used to line a trash can. If that trash can liner is re-used three times -- suppose the trash is being emptied into a larger receptacle -- you would have to use the cotton bag a whopping 393 times to match the grocery store bag’s level of sustainability.

That seems counterintuitive.

After all, the plastic bags are what

are choking the whales and blowing in the ditches. And cotton biodegrades.

But the study weighed not just the disposal of various bags, but how the bags are made.

Cotton bags are made of, obviously, cotton, which is generally grown using pesticides and other agrichemicals and which require hefty amounts of water and land..

The study also looked at paper grocery sacks, and determined they would have to be re-used three times to match the plastic bag’s impact. Of course, paper bags tear and get wet and aren’t as likely to be reused as cotton bags. To see the study online, search for “Life cycle assessment of supermarket carrier bags” and “Environment Agency.”

The researchers gave this advice.

Whichever bag you bring to the supermarket, make sure you use it as much as you can. If not for more groceries, then to line your garbage can. Recycling helps, but not nearly as much as reusing.

They didn’t weigh the impact of bags made from jute or hemp, both of which are more sustainable than cotton. They also didn’t consider the impact of making your own bags from recycled fabric. You could turn that old pair of jeans into a handy carrier.

Or, do what my friend Wayne did: Cut the top off a sturdy bird seed bag, stitch on handles, and voila, you have a chic shopping bag that will serve you many, many trips to the store.

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Equality in sports starts with RESPECT

By Jared Rubado

After a two-year absence, the men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments returned this March. To nobody’s surprised, the NCAA found itself in hot water once again.

The March Madness bubbles were located in Indianapolis, IN, for the men and San Antonio, TX for the women. The men were given state-of-the-art facilities for practices and workouts, but the women weren’t. Oregon’s Sedona Price highlighted the behind-the-scenes workout facilities in San Antonio on her TikTok account, which amassed 11.8 million views.

Why did it get so many views? Well, because the workout facility was a lone dumbbell rack with 12 total dumbbells that your young children could likely use. The NCAA’s response to the lack of equipment was the limited amount of space it had to use. However, Price panned to the room the dumbbell rack was in, and it was about the size of a high school gym.

The video gained more traction, which turned into a significant social media movement. The NCAA ended up giving the women the equipment it rightfully earned from the start. But there’s a deep-rooted

issue in all of this. Women’s sports are often discredited on account of money.

I am very comfortable saying that this year’s women’s tournament was far better than the men’s in terms of the quality of the games and the entertainment level. I don’t want to take away from the men’s tournament because it did have some classics that fans won’t soon forget, but if more people turned into the women’s tournament this year, they would’ve had a blast.

This was the best NCAA basketball tournament I’ve seen in years. There was a classic matchup in the elite eight between UConn and Baylor, Aari McDonald’s heroics for Arizona and Stanford clinging to its last breath to win its first title in almost 30 years. And that was just in the final three rounds.

The lasting impact of this tournament should’ve been these incredible stories, but it wasn’t. The NCAA, which made over $165 million in the 2020 financial year, wanted to save a couple of bucks at the women’s expense by skimping out on a weight room.

This problem isn’t just at the national level. It was also prevalent in our community in Alexandria. The girls hockey team

made it to the state tournament for the first time as a Class AA team this winter and made the trip to the Xcel Energy Center. Getting a chance to compete on the biggest stage in Minnesota is everything a hockey player dreams of when they’re a little kid. The tradition, fanfare and atmosphere is bigger than the game sometimes.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fans were limited. It’s a bummer, but it’s the right call. The boys tournament was televised in every round on KSTC, but not the girls. Fans had to pay to watch the girls tournament on a computer in the first round of the girls tournaments because the powers at be determined what is and isn’t entertaining.

Alexandria played in the most memorable game I’ve covered in my short time here. It was an unbelievable story that ended in heartbreak in the second overtime. Sadly, you probably didn’t get to see it.

What I will ask out of you is simple: please start or continue watching and supporting women’s sports. Your preconceived notions of these games are ill-advised and are detrimental to these athletes and coaches.

May/June 2021 Chicz

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Let Kyle Serve You!

The power of

S T A RTING SMALL

By Lowell Anderson

One of the biggest impediments to learning anything is time. We’re often guilty of saying things like, “Oh I’d love to learn that, but I just don’t have the time right now.”

But is that really a valid excuse for not learning?

Sometimes the problem is we simply never start because we have not yet made a commitment. But often the bigger reason is that we think we need to have a lot of free time available in order to effectively learn something.

The reality is that you can learn a significant amount in just a few minutes a day. The key is consistency - or in other words, learning a little every day.

We tend to resist learning this way, however, for several reasons. First, we are impatient - we want to learn it all right now or not at all. Second, we underestimate how effective learning in small bites can actually be.

In fact, it may even be better to start off slow. It’s kind of like starting an exercise program where we plan to work out an hour every day. However, after a while blocking out that much time takes a toll, and if we’re not really committed, we quit.

But if we start small - either with exercise or learning - we build a habit that is easier to sustain. And over time, we accomplish a lot more than if we had done nothing.

The Learning Life As an example, suppose you wanted to increase your vocabulary. If you just learned one new word every day, by the end of year, you’d have learned 365 words. After three years, you’d know more than a thousand. Sure, that’s a lot of time, but how many new words would you know after three years of hoping to study vocabulary someday?

The other advantage of the “5 minutes a day” approach is that what you’re learning may “stick” better, especially if you review regularly. By focusing

on a limited number of things regularly, you can avoid overwhelming yourself with a lot of information that you soon forget.

However, just because this works with one or two things doesn’t mean you should do a bunch of little learning bites all at once. Remember the power of focus. So just pick one or two areas and don’t get distracted.

The whole point is to get started, make steady (maybe even slow) progress and keep on going.

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No thank you needed for

SAVI G LIVES

‘It’s fun to see the light in their eyes when we show up’

By Celeste Edenloff When Crescent Westberg thought about going to college, she planned on going to med school.

But that changed when a friend told her about becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT).

Her friend said it would be a good experience for her and that she should give it a try.

She did and she ended up falling in love with it.

And now, she has been working in the emergency medical service field since 2008, and for nearly seven years, she has been employed by North Memorial Ambulance.

Westberg is now a paramed-

BY THE

NUMBERS 70,000+ 100,000+ 24/7

22

3,455 800

8 Chicz May/June 2021

ic and is also the clinical and operational supervisor for the Alexandria ambulance service.

In addition, she just completed training to be able to provide community paramedicine, which she described as “the help before the crisis.”

“Through preventative care, we can fill the gap in healthcare,” she said. “We can go into the home, whereas providers can’t. We can help facilitate care and work with agencies for customers to achieve their best health.”

Community paramedicine is a new service that just became active in this area in April, she said.

Westberg, who is excited about providing community paramedicine, lives south of Glenwood with her husband, Eric. Together, the couple have seven children – Kira, Carter, Connor, Autumn, twins Adysen and Brielle, and Kaylin.

Crescent Westberg, pictured with her husband, Eric, been working in the emergency medical service field since 2008.

LOVES TO HELP One of the reasons she loves being in this field is being able to help people when they are

at the worst of the worst. She also loves being able to meet people where they are at, without judging them. She said

North Memorial Ambulance has been serving the Alexandria area for 25 years, opening the facility in 1996.

In the Alexandria lakes area, there were 3,455 calls for service in 2020 with 2,877 transports.

Overall in 2020, North Ambulance had more than 100,000 requests for service and more than 70,000 patients were transported.

In 2020, the top three types of calls for this area, as well as statewide were falls, breathing problems and traffic crashes.

The North Memorial service in Alexandria includes two crews that provide 24/7 coverage and another crew for a 12-hour shift. There are 22 staff members with 15 who are employed full-time and seven who are part-time. And they run a total of five ambulances.

Overall, there are 800 clinical, administrative and support personnel within the ambulance service.

And North Memorial Health Ambulance serves more than 2 million in a ground area of more than 10,500 square miles with 125 ambulances stationed at 15 bases across both Minnesota and Wisconsin. It also has nine helicopters at seven bases in both states.

You may be someone’s person without knowing you’re someone’s person.

And sometimes, when we show up, it’s an easy fix and sometimes, it’s not.

Crescent Westberg Emergency Medical Technician

people have so many opinions about how life should be, but by being a paramedic, she helps people whether they are homeless or a millionaire. She doesn’t care about their status or what clothes they wear or their job or how big or small their house is, she is simply there to help.

“It’s fun to see the light in their eyes when we show up,” she said. “And to instantly – in most cases – gain their trust and they know they can be open and honest with us. We are there to support and help them in any way we can.”

Sometimes, she said, the ambulance is called out for what may seem like the simplest of things. But to that person, who may be anxious and feeling all alone, those people

– the emergency responders – may be the only people in that person’s life who cares.

“You may be someone’s person without knowing you’re someone’s person,” she said.

“And sometimes, when we show up, it’s an easy fix and sometimes, it’s not.”

NO THANK YOU NEEDED Westberg still remembers one of her first “saves.” It was a cardiac arrest patient who they revived. Not too long after they helped save the person’s life, Westberg saw that person walk into the grocery store.

She knew who that person was but that person had no idea who she was, which to her, was the best part.

“It is super fun to do things for people, to help people,” she

Crescent Westberg stands by an ambulance in the North Memorial Health Ambulance garage on Nokomis Street in Alexandria. She is a paramedic and is also the clinical and operational supervisor for the ambulance service. said. “And do it without looking for a thank you. You’ve never truly lived until you do something for someone and they can’t pay you back. It’s the best feeling.”

She remembers another call where she wasn’t actually sure the patient, who was involved in a bad crash, was going to make it. Not too long after the incident, Westberg said she saw the person’s engagement

announcement in the newspaper.

“It was so great to see that she did make it and was living her best life,” said Westberg.

“It’s very rewarding.”

There have been times, however, where she and other North Ambulance crew members have had the chance to meet those they helped save.

Westberg continued on page 30

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By Jasmine Johnson

with

love

I don't eat peanut butter cookies very often, but when I do, they bring back vivid images of afternoons spent in my grandparents’ kitchen with cream-colored doilies and walnut cupboards.

Those were the days when my grandma was still healthy enough to bake the freshest, most delicious peanut butter cookies on this planet.

OK, maybe I’m a little biased.

I didn’t understand the need for fork impressions in the middle of each ball of

dough, but I never doubted the perfect balance of meltin-your-mouth softness and ever-so-slight crunchiness that awaited our consumption.

Once the microwave timer beeped and the pan emerged from the oven, a dozen delightfully golden circles of goodness always appeared before our eyes.

Although my grandma Patty passed away almost three years ago, her peanut butter cookies are one of the things I remember about her that I can

Makes approximately 30 cookies

ening, butter and egg Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours or until firm.

Heat oven to 375°F. Shape dough into 1-1/4-inch balls and place about 3 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten in crisscross pattern with fork dipped into sugar. Cookies can also be rolled in sugar before flattening with fork.

Bake 9-10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 5 minutes; remove from cookie sheet. Cool on wire rack.

INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup shortening 1/4 cup butter, softened 1 egg 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, combine sugars, peanut butter, short-

10 Chicz May/June 2021

visualize as though we made them together yesterday.

I can smell her homemade bread wafting down from the upper level to greet me in the gravel driveway. I can hear her yelling for her husband, “Don… Don!” from behind the porch screen, her tone a unique combination of stern and sweet. I can see her wellworn Vikings jersey draped proudly across her torso, even if the team had tallied yet another loss. I can picture the exact layout of the Skip-Bo card game sprawled across the dining room table.

If you feel so inclined, maybe take a few minutes to look up a recipe and bake some dessert on June 12, National Peanut Butter Cookie Day. Or call up your grandma.

I think either one would be a fitting option to celebrate.

However, if you forget about the holiday and everything else I’ve written in this column, please join me in keeping this one tidbit in mind: Treasure the present rather than waiting for the sweet moments to turn to memories.

May/June 2021 Chicz

11

Mother’s Day gifts to help Mom relax

Would you like to help your mom relax and unwind this Mother’s Day? If so, here are a few gift ideas that may be a good fit.

AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT A HOTEL. There’s nothing like a change of scenery, even a brief one, to take the edge off the daily grind. Depending on her tastes, opt for something sleek and polished in town or quaint and charming off the beaten track. With room service and onsite amenities, Mom will be able to indulge in a little pampering.

A HOME-DELIVERED MEAL. Help your mom take a break from cooking by serving her a meal she doesn’t have to make. Order a dish she loves from her favorite restaurant or buy the ingredients

Flowers

to prepare it yourself. Either way, she’s sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness.

A BASKET OF BATH PRODUCTS. Give your mother an excuse to bask in the bath by offering her an assortment of goods. Put together a basket filled with bubble bath, a sponge, scented candles, a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates and other treats for a relaxing experience.

A SPA TREATMENT AND MASSAGE. This guaranteed anti-stress remedy is the perfect way to help Mom unwind. If

12 Chicz May/June 2021

Mother’s Day

Do you want to pull out all the stops for Mother’s Day this year? Whether your mom lives nearby or far away, here are a few ways to celebrate the occasion.

Giving flowers on Mother’s Day is a time-honored tradition. If you’re looking to show your mom, your grandmother or the mother of your children that you care, here are some suggestions.

FLOWERS FOR THE GARDEN If the mother you’re celebrating has a green thumb, consider giving her a new plant for her garden.

Pretty perennials like primroses and peonies or flowering shrubs like rhododendrons and lilacs are all good choices. Assess the landscaping of the yard to help you make the right choice. Alternatively, ask a

From scented oil diffusers and adult coloring books to foot massagers and facial steamers, there are many other gifts that can help your mom relax. Look for these and other products and services in your region.

Special ways to celebrate

for the mothers in your life

CUT FLOWERS Fresh bouquets are sure to please the ladies in your life. Offer them bundles of cut roses, gerberas, tulips, camellias, carnations, irises, lilies or birds of paradise. Select blooms in their favorite colors or fragrances, or let your florist make a custom arrangement.

you’re not sure which types of massages and treatments she would enjoy, opt for a gift card from a place that offers a variety of services.

professional at your local nursery for suggestions.

FLOWERING POTTED PLANTS There are many types of flowering plants that make great Mother’s Day gifts. You could get an African violet or orchid for her home, or a hanging basket or rose bush for her yard. Just be sure the person receiving your gift is interested in keeping the plant alive. When in doubt, look for easyto-care-for plants like peace lilies and Christmas cacti.

Regardless of what type of flowers you buy for Mother’s Day, remember to include a card. The best part about your gift is sure to be that it came from you.

THEME PARTY Host an event your mom will never forget by choosing a theme. You could make the celebration a beach party, a Victorian ball, a Mexican fiesta, a casino night soirée or a Great Gatsby-style bash. Consider your mom’s tastes and get creative.

FUN ACTIVITY Celebrate your mom by doing something together you know she enjoys. It could be a walk in the forest, a visit to a museum, a day at the spa, a hot air balloon ride or a wine tasting at a local vineyard. If Mom would prefer to stay home, consider playing board games or having a movie marathon with all of her favorite snacks.

VIDEO CALL If you can’t get together with your mom in person, organize a video call that shows her how much you care. You could read her a letter or poem you wrote for the occasion, share a festive meal together despite the distance or play an assortment of games to brighten up her day.

How to choose the

right swimsuit

MAINTENANCE

If you want to keep your swimsuit in good shape for years to come, machine wash it on the gentle cycle with a mild detergent after every use. Make sure to hang dry it indoors or outdoors in the shade. Clothes dryers can damage your swimsuit’s elasticity and the sun can cause the fabric to fade.

INTEGRITY

Some people love shopping for swimsuits, while others loathe it. Either way, here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.

be lounging by the pool or sipping cocktails on the beach, go ahead and play around with more daring styles.

TYPE. Don’t let anyone convince you that you can’t wear a certain type of swimsuit because of your age or body type. All that matters is that you like it, that it’s comfortable and that it meets your needs. If you want to find a flattering swimsuit that makes you feel confident in your body, ask a salesperson at your local swimwear shop for suggestions.

QUALITY. If the thought of shopping for a new swimsuit makes you cringe, invest in one that’s high-quality and won’t go out of style. That way, you won’t have to shop for a new one every few years.

Conversely, if you like keeping up with the latest trends, buy a few swimsuits in different colors and cuts that you can interchange.

USE. If you plan on swimming laps or want to spend hours paddle boarding, a sports swimsuit is probably the most practical option. However, if you’ll

Finding the right swimsuit doesn’t have to be daunting. From one-pieces to bikinis and trikinis to tankinis, there are many different styles, cuts and fits available.

Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

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13

In the mood for a Try these eight wine tips for sipping under the sun

By Al Edenloff Basking outside in the spring or summer sun is a perfect escape in the Alexandria lakes area – whether it’s in your own backyard, at the beach or at your favorite camping or picnic spot (where alcohol is allowed, of course).

An ice-cold beer out of the cooler is the typical beverage of choice for an outdoor gathering but wine can also join the party. Here are a few tips for drinking wine in the great outdoors: Keep white wines in an icefilled cooler. Reds should be tucked away in the shade.

You don’t have to give up your favorite red on a hot day.

Just put the bottle in the cooler with a few chips of ice over it, wait about 15 minutes and it will cool down just enough to keep its flavor and be refreshing too. Another option – a

Make a tasty

picnic?

rosé. They hold up well under the ice.

If this is a picnic, skip elaborate main dishes. A couple of different cheeses, grapes and some crackers or bread will be just fine for a light bite.

If you are hungry for a bigger meal outside, try these pairings – cold chicken with Pinot Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay; egg salad sandwich with a fruity red like Beaujolais; chicken pasta salad with Pinot Noir; an Italian sub sandwich with Riesling; tropical fruit salad

with Sauvignon Blanc; potato salad (the yellow mustard variety) with Cabernet Sauvignon; and here’s one to try – regular old potato chips with Pinot Gris or a dry rosé.

No need to get fancy. Stow the expensive glass stemware and go with sturdy plastic, a cheaper glass one or even a tumbler.

If it’s really hot out and your favorite white is getting warm, put an ice cube or two in your glass. Do it proudly. You’re not in a four-star restaurant.

Remember the corkscrew

or just get a bottle with a screw cap. They’ve been around since the 1950s and once got a bad rap as being for cheapos but it’s perfectly acceptable these days.

Don’t forget the other basics – a blanket, reusable plates, utensils, napkins, sunscreen, bug spray and a trash bag.

You want to leave the area you visited just as neat and tidy as when you arrived.

These ideas should at least get you motivated to get out of the house and have some fun in the sun.

CHICKEN PASTA CAESAR SALAD Serves 10

2 tsp. Dijon mustard 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 3/4 cup mayonnaise 2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. anchovy paste 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Pour Caesar dressing over all; toss, then add croutons and garnish with Parmesan cheese.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

To make homemade dressing, whisk together mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, minced garlic and anchovy paste. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp. pepper.

Chicken Pasta Caesar Salad for your picnic INGREDIENTS: FOR THE PASTA SALAD: 8 oz. uncooked pasta (rotini or penne) 2 hearts of romaine Shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped, cooked chicken breasts Parmesan cheese for serving Croutons (optional) FOR THE DRESSING: Note: You can substitute homemade dressing with your favorite purchased Caesar dressing.

14 Chicz May/June 2021

DIRECTIONS: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain; transfer it to a large serving bowl.

Cut the romaine hearts into 1-inch pieces; add chicken and romaine of choice to pasta bowl.

Prayer has

POWER

By Jasmine Johnson

Circled up and surrounded by a squad of neon green T-shirts, a slight breeze rustled a few straggling wisps of my hair in the March breeze.

Location: Friendswood, Texas.

Date: March 2019.

Significance: The mission trip when I learned how to practically apply the Bible verse 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

Pray without ceasing.

Crisis Response, the organization we were volunteering with, had a phrase printed across the back of those bright T-shirts: “Sharing the love of Christ with those in need.”

I wondered how we could still be doing hurricane relief by taking periodic breaks to go on prayer walks around the neighborhood in the middle of perfectly good work days. The

wooden house frame couldn’t apply tape edging and lather layers of mudding by itself.

Then came the organization’s other motto: People over projects.

Though my group didn’t get to meet the owners of the house we were working on until the final night of the trip, I understood the importance of that second slogan on a deeper level each day.

Even when we couldn’t see it happening, God was answering our prayers. When we took a few minutes away from our task-oriented days to refocus on the purpose behind our actions, those same prayers also changed our mindsets.

And the more we intentionally invited God to move, the more we noticed how he was present in our midst every step of the process.

I have no idea how you may have experienced prayer in the past or what first comes to mind when you hear the word, but since May 7 is the National Day of Prayer, let me leave you with two thoughts.

There is power in numbers, and where two or more people are gathered, the Bible says God is there with them.

He hears you, and he cares deeply about your heart.

Consider what it might mean to live a life praying without ceasing, recognizing the open line of communication you have with Jesus and beginning to talk with him during even the most mundane days.

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15

It’s camping season!

S

ummer is here and that means camping season. It’s time for enjoying the great outdoors with your family and friends.

Why camping? There’s something magical about spending an evening sleeping under the night sky all cozy and warm in your sleeping bag, listening to the sounds of nature.

Connecting with nature lets your whole family enjoy some adventure, giving everyone an opportunity for exploring while getting away from the pressures of every day life. Camping also requires teamwork to make things fun – a good skill for everyone to learn.

10 food safety tips for summer camping season Improper storage, handling and preparation of food when camping can make you sick.

Here are a few food safety tips to keep in mind during your next outdoor adventure. Prepare and freeze several dishes ahead of time. Frozen meals will last longer and help keep other items cool. Place high-risk foods such as meat and dairy products on the bottom of your cooler. Keep more frequently used items on top to avoid leaving the lid open. Use ice blocks, as they melt slower and last longer than ice cubes.

Place your cooler in a shady spot away from direct sunlight, and regularly add ice to make sure your perishables stay at or below 39 degrees.

Eat fresh or cooked meat within two to three days. Wash your hands often, especially before cooking and after touching raw meat.

Immediately cover and store leftover food in your cooler. Lastly, you should keep in mind that high-risk foods that are kept out of the cooler for more than two hours have too much bacteria to safely consume.

Keep cooking utensils and work surfaces clean at all times. Rinse meat, vegetables and fruit with potable water before eating. Use different utensils for each food item, and never let raw meat touch cooked meat.

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How to build a campfire

CAMPFIRE TOASTED CINNAMON ROLLS SUPPLIES: Hold your roll over hot Can of Pillsbury Cinnamon embers, rotating frequently Rolls and cooking on all sides.

Roasting sticks – it’s best Cook for 8-12 minutes, to use skewers with two depending on the heat in your prongs close together campfire, cooking all the way Hot coals of a campfire through.

Remove from campfire and DIRECTIONS: allow to cool slightly before Open a can of rolls and carefully removing the roll carefully divide them into from the roasting prongs. You individual rolls. Insert the can drizzle frosting over the prongs through the side of a warm roll before eating. roll near the center. Make sure to slide it close to the back of the prongs.

Sitting around a roaring campfire with friends and family is one of the best parts of camping. Here’s what you need to do to build the perfect fire.

Gather everything you need including a lighter or matches, newspaper, fire starter, kindling and firewood.

Crumple up a few pieces of newspaper and place them in the firepit.

Place a fire starter or a few twigs on top of the crumpled newspaper.

Arrange the kindling in a cone shape over the nest of newspaper and twigs. Leave enough room for air to circulate.

Light the newspaper or fire starter in several spots using a match or lighter.

Build up the fire with logs using your method of choice once you have a steady flame.

In some campgrounds, you’re not allowed to gather

wood directly on site. Instead, you must purchase it from a reception desk or local store.

If you’re allowed to collect firewood at your campsite, make sure to only gather it from dead or fallen trees.

Finally, be careful to not pitch your tent too close to the firepit. If there’s no designated firepit, make sure your campfire isn’t near any low-hanging branches or bushes.

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17

RAINBOW CLOUD (Pinterest)

By Melanie Danner

FRUIT POM POM TREE

(Pinterest) SUPPLIES: Green construction paper Brown/black construction paper Colored pom poms Glue/glue stick Scissors Pencil INSTRUCTIONS: Draw the shape of a tree top on the green paper and cut out.

Draw the shape of a tree trunk on the black paper and cut out.

Glue the trunk to the tree top.

Glue the pom poms to the tree top.

Now the tree is growing some delicious fruit!

SUPPLIES: White paper Googly eyes Popsicle sticks Markers Tape Glue/glue stick Scissors Pencil INSTRUCTIONS: Fold a sheet of white paper in half and draw the shape of a cloud.

Cut out. You will have two clouds.

Use colored popsicle sticks or draw with markers to create a rainbow with the sticks.

Tape the popsicle sticks to one of the clouds.

Glue the other cloud on top.

Glue on googly eyes and use the markers to create a face.

A wonderful craft for a rainy day!

POM POM DREAM CATCHER DINOSAUR CARD (Pinterest)

SUPPLIES: Colored paper/ cardstock Googly eyes Markers Glue/glue stick Scissors Pencil

INSTRUCTIONS: Fold a piece of colored paper in half.

Trace your child’s hand with their wrist at the folded side.

Cut out their handprint.

Next draw a neck and head on a piece of colored paper and cut out.

18 Chicz May/June 2021

Open the hand and glue the neck to the underside of the top hand.

Glue on googly eyes and decorate with pom poms.

You can tell someone they are DINO-MITE inside of the card. Enjoy!

(Pinterest) SUPPLIES: White cardstock String Pom poms Hole punch Glue/glue stick Scissors

INSTRUCTIONS: Draw a cloud on the white paper and cut out.

Punch three holes across the bottom of the cloud.

Cut three pieces of string about 16” long.

Fold a piece of string in half, insert the looped side though a hole and pull the loose ends through the loop.

Glue pom poms to the strings.

Repeat for the remaining two pieces of string.

HAND MADE FLOWERS (Pinterest)

SUPPLIES: Green construction paper Brown/black construction paper Colored pom poms Glue/glue stick Scissors Pencil

SWIMMING FISH

(Pinterest) SUPPLIES: Cut two fins out of one Colored paper of the pieces of paper for Googly eyes the fish.

White marker/pen Roll the paper for the Glue/glue stick fish into a tube and glue on the paper for the sea.

Scissors Glue a fin on each side of the tube.

INSTRUCTIONS: Glue googly eyes to Cut a piece of colored the tube. paper in half for the sea.

Make the face and Cut a piece of colored paper in thirds for the bubbles with the white marker. fish.

INSTRUCTIONS: Trace your child’s hand on a piece of paper and cut out.

Roll the bottom into a cone shape and tape.

Cut a pipe cleaner in half, fold and twist to create the inside of the flower.

Take another pipe cleaner and hook it through the twist to create the stem.

Insert the stem in the center of the cone.

Use a pencil to roll each of the fingers outward in a curl.

You can add paper leaves or even use more pipe cleaners.

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DIY Make your own

By Linda Jenson Brad, my husband, has been watching a lot of TikTok videos recently. (I mean, what else are you going to do during a pandemic?) One day, he came across this temperature afghan and thought I would really enjoy doing something like this.

I came up with my temperature ranges and each range would be a different color of yarn. Zero and below would be one color, 1-29 degrees would be another, 30s and 40s a third color, then 50s and

temperature blanket 60s and so on. Temperatures higher than 90 will be red, but I just haven’t needed that color yet.

I started with January 1, 2021 and take the high temperature each day. Depending on what the temp is, that determines the color of that row.

I will continue this for the whole year. The pictures show about three months worth of work.

This is going to be one big comfy afghan when I am finished!

What is TikTok?

TikTok is a video-sharing social networking service used to make a variety of short videos, such as dance, comedy and education, that last from 15 seconds to one minute.

WHAT IS A TEMPERATURE BLANKET?

A temperature blanket is a knitted or crocheted blanket that serves as a snapshot of a certain time frame. Your blanket can encompass an entire year with each day one row of your blanket, or you can select a season or special days such as birthdays or anniversaries throughout the year. You can even document the time throughout your pregnancy to create a special blanket for your new baby. You can have it reflect the temperatures of your hometown, or maybe a special vacation spot.

There are a myriad of options.

TRY A SCARF OR PILLOW INSTEAD

If the idea of an entire blanket gives you a chill, why not start out with a smaller project, such as a pillow, afghan or scarf. You can also make a year-long blanket by using weekly averages instead of daily temps.

DIFFERENT PATTERNS

Afraid that row after row of basic lines will make you lose interest? Why not try using different patterns such as squares or chevrons?

USE A TEMPERATURE TRACKER

You can use a temperature tracker, calendar or a spreadsheet to keep track of the weather. This gives you the option of working on your project weekly or every few days.

20 Chicz May/June 2021

Honor America’s fallen soldiers on Memorial Day

Memorial Day, which takes place on May 31 this year, provides an annual opportunity to commemorate the men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States military.

One way to observe this occasion is to visit a veteran cemetery or memorial in your area. In fact, decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flags and flowers has long been a tradition of this federal holiday. However, there’s another way veteran graves might be adorned.

THE MEANING OF COINS ON HEADSTONES If you visit a cemetery on the last Monday in May, you might notice that in addition to the more typical decorations, coins have been left on some of the headstones. While its origins are uncertain, the purpose of this tradition

is to let the family of the deceased know that someone visited the grave. Here’s what each denomination signifies:

Pennies. If someone places a penny on the headstone of a fallen soldier, it’s to show that they stopped and paid their respects.

Nickels. If someone places a nickel on a headstone, it means they went through basic training with the deceased.

Dimes. If someone places a dime on a veteran’s headstone, it indicates they served in the armed forces with that person.

Quarters. If someone places a quarter on a headstone, it’s because they were there when the soldier was killed in action.

If you want to let the families of fallen service members know that you appreciate their sacrifice, bring a handful of pennies with you to the cemetery.

Other ways to mark the occasion include attending a Memorial Day parade or sharing a meal with loved ones.

May/June 2021 Chicz

21

A gift for every type of DAD If you’re wondering what to get your dad for Father’s Day, it’s a good idea to consider his hobbies and interests. Here are some suggestions for different kinds of dads.

THE MOVIE BUFF. If space permits, your dad might appreciate a vintage film projector or studio lamp. Alternatively, consider getting him a movie-themed trivia game, a scratch-off poster or a collectible figurine from his favorite flick.

There are also many great reads about film history and culture.

THE CHEF. One way to impress a dad who loves to cook is by spoiling him with new kitchen accessories. Consider buying him a quality cutting board, Japanese chef knives, barbecue utensils or a new apron. If your dad has a green thumb, another option is to get him potted herbs he can grow outside or in the kitchen.

THE COLLECTOR. If your dad is a stamp enthusiast, he’ll likely appreciate a magnifier to help with identification or a UV lamp to assist with observing phosphorescent markings. For the father who collects coins, consider getting him a rare or commemorative piece, a specialized storage album, a magnification loupe or a cleaning bath for his coins.

THE OUTDOORSMAN. The dad who enjoys spending time in nature is likely to welcome getting a set of hiking poles, an engraved compass, a pair of waterproof binoculars or a wilderness survival handbook. Alternatively, check to see if some of his camping, hunting or fishing gear could use an upgrade.

THE MUSIC LOVER. For the dad with a passion for music, buy a water-resistant portable speaker, wireless headphones or a guitar pick maker. Alternatively, get him a music-themed keepsake such as a wall clock depicting his favorite band, drink coasters that look like CDs or records, or cufflinks shaped like a treble clef or the instrument he plays.

4 personalized presents for FATHER’S DAY Father’s Day is coming up. If you want to get your dad a gift that’s as unique as he is, choose something you can personalize. Here are a few ideas to inspire you.

A CUSTOM GIFT BOX. Some companies let you decide on the specific items that get put in the box. Depending on the retailer, this gift might include cocktail syrups, gourmet products, a gin-making kit, spices, or soaps.

AN ENGRAVED OBJECT. There are a variety of gifts that can be engraved including key rings, coffee thermoses, cufflinks and metal flasks. Consider customizing the item with a tender sentiment, a humorous quip or simply your dad’s initials. Check with the product seller to see if they offer this service

22 Chicz May/June 2021

or visit a jewelry store that does engravings.

A UNIQUE PRINTED GARMENT. Whether your father has a passion for fishing, monster trucks or comic books, there’s a T-shirt design out there that’s right for him. Choose or create one that lets him show off his interests. If you prefer, you can get the design printed on a sweater, apron or cap. Alternatively, have a photograph printed on one of these items.

A FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH. Sort through your pictures and find ones to fill a set of frames, a customized scrapbook, a photo cube or a digital frame. Choose shots that capture moments with loved ones, travel memories and other happy times.

ANDY’S CHOICE:

Springtime RTD cheer!

By Andy Mellgren Trending right now are ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails. RTDs are pre-made cocktails with the alcohol already added in.

These cocktails aren’t new and have been a traditional summertime favorite. Their popularity has seen flavor options grow recently.

The popularity of single-serve sizes began to grow last summer. One of these drinks look like freezer pops and can be purchased one at a time or in bulk. Since they are similar looking to children’s freezer pops, make sure you store them safely.

Another newer option are RTDs-in-a-box. These readymade mixed cocktails have an easy-to-use pour spout. You can keep them in the refrigerator, freezer or liquor cabinet.

There come in a variety of flavors and you don’t have to worry about having the right supplies on hand. Simply pour over ice and enjoy.

It would be remiss of me if I were to leave out the classics.

What would warm weather be without margarita, strawberry daiquiri and mudslide mixes?

They are available in RTD as well as alcohol-free, and can be stored in the refrigerator or liquor cabinet.

Here are some fun and quick suggestions for you: Freezer pops: These come in many flavors from several companies, including Drake’s Spiked Ice, Skinny Freeze and Daily’s Poptails. More varieties will be coming soon.

Another single serve option is IceBox. These are available in several RTD flavors.

Last, but not least, are the Daily’s frozen pouches.

RTDs in a box: Only one brand, Drake’s Boxtails, is available right now.

Classics: Simply chill or pour over ice. Flybird, IceBox and Cuervo are some great options to have on hand.

Non-Alc: While these drinks are alcohol free, they are great for virgin cocktails, or you can simply add a splash of your favorite liquor.

Tres Agaves, Spooky, Owen’s and Master of Mixes all have a

wide variety of flavors for you to choose from.

Springtime celebrations come in all shapes and sizes.

Our recommendations happen to include liquor, but be sure to enjoy responsibly and in moderation.

Put yourself in a celebratory mood, perform random acts of kindness and spread warm weather cheer.

Salud!

Andy

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23

Fall in love with

trail running Trail running can be demanding, but many people enjoy it. Here are a few reasons this activity is becoming increasingly popular.

PHYSICAL HEALTH On top of the usual benefits of running, trail running challenges your balance, coordination and agility. Running up and down hills, along winding trails and over uneven ground forces you to adjust your pace and stride to suit the terrain. Not only is it more challenging, but the movements are less repetitive, reducing the

3

risk of injury. In addition, the ground is softer than asphalt, which limits the impact on your joints.

MENTAL HEALTH Running over uneven terrain requires intense concentration. This increased focus helps you stay present instead of thinking about your worries and concerns. Plus, the benefits of spending time in nature and breathing in fresh air are well known. For these reasons, running outdoors can help relieve stress and keep your mind sharp.

fat biking tips for

beginners 2

Though fat biking in winter is becoming increasingly popular, this outdoor activity can also be enjoyed in the summer. If you’re interested in trying this sport as the weather warms up, here are some tips.

1

Take it slow and steady. Even though the fat bike’s oversized tires make it easier to ride over rough and bumpy terrain, you should avoid hairpin turns and steep slopes on your first few outings. It’s best to start with short, flat trails until you get the hang of riding your fat bike.

Learn to control your skids. Experienced riders will tell you that skidding in sand and snow is part of the thrill of fat biking. However, to avoid injuring yourself, you should first practice how to safely perform the maneuver on beginner-friendly trails.

3

Pace yourself. If you come out of the gate running, you’re going to tire yourself out pretty quickly. It’s better to start off slow and gradually increase your pace as you gain more experience.

What’s more, the beautiful scenery helps you focus less on your performance and more on enjoying yourself. In particular, it encourages you to slow down and admire your surroundings. There’s nothing like reaching your destination and being rewarded with a stunning view and a sense of accomplishment.

Lastly, trail running is simply fun. It can be freeing to let yourself trample through dust, mud and puddles. If you don’t mind getting a little dirty, head out and explore the trails in your area this summer.

5 summer activities to enjoy

solo

Being alone doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Here are five solo activities you may want to try this summer.

Visit a museum. You can choose which exhibits you want to explore and not worry about being rushed or taking too long.

Go to a movie. You can visit either a theater or drive-in. Once the movie starts, it won’t matter if you’re there alone. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

Relax at the park. Take some time to read, do yoga or picnic at a nearby park.

Attend an outdoor show. Once you’re there, you’ll be swept up in the festive atmosphere and probably won’t need anyone to talk to.

Eat at a restaurant. Take the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal without having to worry about making conversation.

24 Chicz May/June 2021

Is it time to The passing of a pet can be an experience similar to losing another important member of the family. Even though the loss is inevitable, it can still be shocking when a pet passes away.

Upon the death of a pet, many pet owners need some time to mourn and grow accustomed to living without their pet. Though some might prefer to adopt a new pet shortly after a pet dies, others may need time to decide if this is the right decision. The following are some factors for pet owners to consider, courtesy of Vet Street, WebMD, Bark, and RainbowsBridge. com, as they try to decide what to do after losing a pet.

Home doesn’t feel complete. Many previous dog owners feel their homes are empty or not complete without the presence of a fourlegged friend. People who live

love again?

alone and relied on a recently deceased pet for companionship or safety may consider adopting sooner than busy families or those who have roommates to keep them occupied.

Why get another pet? Pet owners must ask themselves why they want another pet. If the main reason is to dull the pain of loss, it may be better to wait until something other than emotion is driving the decision.

Other pets/people. If there are other pets in the house, think about how they may react to having a new addition in the house. Just because one person is ready for the responsibility of a new pet doesn’t mean everyone is.

All opinions and personalities should be considered and all voices heard before bringing a new pet into the home.

Is it time for a break?

Some pet lovers may need a break from the responsibility of pet ownership, especially if a recently deceased pet was difficult to care for in its final years.

Existing lifestyle. New pets may require a decadeplus commitment. While it may have been easy the first time around, those who are facing retirement and the possibility of travel or have chil-

dren leaving the home may want to think about whether or not pets suit their current or future lifestyles.

The death of a pet is a difficult experience. Some pet owners may respond by immediately adopting a new animal, but it may be wise for pet owners to make time to grieve and decide if a new pet is a commitment they can make.

May/June 2021 Chicz

25

CROSSWORD CLUES ACROSS 1. A group of sheep 5. Of she 8. This (Spanish) 12. A type of sorcery 14. A team’s best pitcher 15. Port in southern Japan 16. Makes very happy 18. Trigonometric unit of measurement 19. From a distance 20. Winged nut 21. Consumed 22. ‘Heat’ director 23. In all places 26 Made improvements to 30. St. __ Girl: brand of beer 31. A type of ‘seat’ 32. Wood 33. A brief treatise on a subject of interest 34. Approval 39. Basics 42. Where judges sit 44. W. African religion 46. Commentators 47. Having many different functions 49. Member of a Semitic people 50. Flightless, fast-running bird 51. After the seventh 56. Small N. Zealand tree 57. Health care pro (abbr.)

58. Playground mainstay 59. Expressing relief 60. Records brain activity (abbr.)

61. Fishing net 62. Beer 63. Tooth caregiver 64. Japanese beverage

MOTHER’S DAY WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

AFFECTION AUNT BREAK BREAKFAST CARING DEDICATED DESSERT FANFARE

26 Chicz May/June 2021

FOSTER GATHERING GRANDMOTHER GREETING CARD HONOR HUGS MATERNAL MOM

PRESENTS RELAXATION REST RESTAURANT SISTER SPA VACATION WOMAN

CLUES DOWN 1. Garden tools 2. Early Syrian kingdom 3. 500 sheets of paper 4. Information 5. Beloved comic strip character 6. Distinct form of a plant 7. Replenishment 8. Semitransparent glassy substance 9. Expedition to observe animals 10. One who held landed granted by Anglo-Saxon king 11. Obtain in return for labor 13. Inheritable genetically 17. One who rescues 24. Doctor of Education 25. Liberal arts 26. Shock treatment 27. Disfigure 28. When you hope to get there 29. Peacock network 35. Part of (abbr.)

36. The 21st letter of the Greek alphabet 37. Not just ‘play’ 38. Former CIA 40. Reduced to a sloping edge 41. Restricted the development of 42. Sciences degree 43. Sea eagles 44. Saturated 45. Joints 47. Sailing boat 48. Respiratory organs 49. Guitarists use them 52. Disco act: Bee __ 53. First Chinese dynasty 54. Intentionally lose 55. Muslim people of China

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27

Lucious Lemon Bar Cheesecake L

emon is the perfect flavor for spring, although I love it yearround. I buy lemons all year long, zesting and juicing them, then freezing the results for whenever the urge hits me to bake something sweet, yet tangy.

When I saw this recipe for Lemon Bar Cheesecake, I couldn’t resist. This recipe calls for vanilla extract, but I switched things up by using half the amount of vanilla and substituting lemon emulsion for the other half.

Extracts are alcohol based and emulsions are water based.

With emulsions, the flavor doesn’t bake out, even when food is baked at high heats.

When I made this cheese-

By Lori Mork

cake, I committed one of those shortcut sins frowned upon in the culinary world – pouring my flavorings directly into the batter, rather than measuring.

The vanilla was no problem, but the squirt-top on the lemon bottle popped off and poured a LARGE amount of emulsion into the batter – all while the mixer was running! I baked the cheesecake anyway, then had to suffer through the wait until it was cooled and chilled before finding out the results of my mistake. Fortunately, using an emulsion saved the day. Instead of a bitter lemon aftertaste, the cheesecake remained lemony, flavorful and fresh. I lucked out and, hopefully, learned my lesson!

QUICK AND EASY LEMON CURD INGREDIENTS: 6 lemons 1/2 cup butter, softened 2 cups sugar 4 eggs DIRECTIONS: Grate zest from lemons to equal 2 Tbsp. Cut lemons in half; squeeze juice into a measuring cup to equal 1 cup.

Beat butter and sugar at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.

Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.

Slowly add lemon juice to butter mixture, beating on

low just until blended after each addition; stir in zest.

(Mixture will look curdled.)

Pour into 3-qt. microwavesafe bowl.

Microwave on high 5 minutes, stirring once each minute. Microwave, stirring at 30-second intervals, 1 to 2 more minutes or until mixture thickens, coats the back of a spoon, and starts to mound slightly when stirred.

Place heavy-duty plastic wrap directly on warm curd (to prevent a film from forming), and chill 4 hours or until firm. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

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May Lose Value

LEMON BAR CHEESECAKE INGREDIENTS: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed 2 egg yolks 1-2 Tbsp. ice-cold water 4 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 4 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract or 1 tsp. vanilla extract plus 1 tsp. lemon emulsion or extract 2 cups Quick and Easy Lemon Curd, divided DIRECTIONS: Pulse first 3 ingredients in food processor 3-4 times or just until blended. Add butter, and pulse 5-6 times or until crumbly. Whisk together egg yolks and 1 Tbsp.

ice-cold water in a small bowl; add to butter mixture, and process until dough forms a ball and pulls away from sides of bowl, adding up to 1 Tbsp. remaining icecold water, 1 tsp. at a time, if necessary. Shape dough into a disk; wrap in plastic wrap.

Chill 4-24 hours.

Roll dough into a 14-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Fit dough into a lightly greased 9-inch springform pan, gently pressing on bottom and up sides of pan; trim dough. Chill 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer 3 minutes or until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until yellow disappears after each addit i o n . Beat in vanilla/lemon flavoring.

Pour two-thirds of cheesecake batter (about 4 cups) into prepared crust; dollop 1 cup lemon curd over batter in pan, and gently swirl with a knife. Spoon remaining batter into pan.

Bake at 325° for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes or just until center is set. Turn oven off. Let cheesecake stand in oven, with door closed, 15 minutes. Remove cheesecake from oven, and gently run a

knife around outer edge of cheesecake to loosen from sides of pan. (Do not remove sides of pan.) Cool completely in pan on a wire rack (about 1 hour). Cover and chill 8 to 24 hours.

Remove sides of pan, and transfer cheesecake to a serving platter. Spoon remaining 1 cup lemon curd over cheesecake.

(Recipe from southernliving.com)

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Westberg from page 9 They also receive letters and phone calls from people who thank them for helping. Westberg said she always shares that with all the employees, telling them they do great work.

FAMILY MATTERS The crew at North Memorial Ambulance is about more than just being coworkers, said Westberg. She said they are family and EMS as a whole is about being family.

“We go into situations that are uncomfortable, but we got each other’s backs,” she said, adding that they not only look out for each other, but they look out for each other’s families, too.

With her own family, she said being a paramedic isn’t always easy as you miss out on things.

But, she said, it is a “super cool” opportunity to teach them that the world is bigger than them.

“Sometimes you don’t come first and that is OK,” she said.

She has taught her kids

Crescent Westberg and her husband, Eric, live south of Glenwood. Together, the couple have seven children – Kira, Carter, Connor, Autumn, twins Adysen and Brielle, and Kaylin and one son-in-law, Nick. about helping people and tells them that they let people borrow their mom and that by doing so, they are helping, too. Oftentimes when she gets home from a shift, she is greeted with the question, “Who did we help today?”

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She said her family has learned to be caregivers and that they support her through and through, which means a lot to her. Being in the profession she is in, said Westerberg, has promoted so many conver

Did you K

Emergency Medical Responders provide immediate lifesaving care to critical patients who access the emergency medical services system. EMRs have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide immediate lifesaving interventions while awaiting additional EMS resources to arrive.

EMRs also provide assistance to higher-level personnel at the scene of emergencies and during transport. EMRs perform basic interventions with minimal equipment. Training takes about six weeks to three months.

Emergency Medical Technicians provide out-of-hospital emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients. EMTs have the basic knowledge and skills necessary to stabilize and safely transport patients rang-

sations about giving without expecting anything in return.

“EMS personnel and their families give and give and give and never expect anything back,” said Westerberg. “And that’s what’s so cool about this job.”

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ing from non-emergency and routine medical transports to life-threatening emergencies.

EMTs perform interventions with the basic equipment typically found on an ambulance.

Training to become an EMT takes about three to six months.

Paramedics are an allied health professional whose primary focus is to provide advanced emergency medical care for critical and emergent patients. Paramedics possess the complex knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation. Paramedics perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. Training to become a paramedic can take anywhere from 18 months to two years.

Source: National EMS Scope of Practice Model

contributing writers Sportswriter Jared Rubado writes an entertainment column that appears each Friday in the Echo Press.

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

Lori Mork

Jared Rubado

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

Melanie Danner

Celeste Edenloff

Jasmine Johnson is a reporter for the Echo Press.

She cherishes long drives with the windows down, dance parties with friends and cold press coffee.

Lowell Anderson

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

Karen Tolkkinen

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

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

Andy Mellgren

a Magazine for FUN women!

Karen Tolkkinen is a reporter at the Echo Press. She enjoys writing, gardening and reading to her 8-yearold son.

Al Edenloff

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