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4 January & February 2011

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is published six times a year by The Journal-Standard, a GateHouse Media newspaper, at 27 S. State Ave., Freeport, Ill. Distribution To arrange for copies to be distributed to your business, call (815) 232-0114 or (800) 325-6397, ext. 114. Subscriptions Mail subscriptions are available outside our circulation area for $25 per year. Call (815) 232-0114 or (800) 325-6397, ext. 114. PUBLISHER Steve Trosley (815) 232-0121 ADVERTISING manager Ann Young (815) 232-0162 Advertising Staff Dutch Bamberg (815) 232-0134 Linda Conder (815) 232-0150 Mike Cowan (815) 232-0177 Leah Dixon (815) 232-0171 Colleen Groves (815) 232-0191 EDITOR Eric Petermann epetermann@ journalstandard.com DESIGNER Jodie Butler Seibert jbutler@journalstandard.com

INSIDE TRAVEL TALES: An oasis from the cold in Mexico Page 8

Majestic birds: Eagles on the Mississippi Page 11

Helpful hints on how to travel with your pets Page 16

Packard man: Haack restores these classic cars Page 18

Red Mary: A story of Irish history, folklore Page 23

January & February 2011

Snow

dreams Hit the ski slopes near Galena STORY AND PHOTOS BY P.J. FRANCIS For ETC... Magazine

ome folks say one of the things they like about living in the Midwest are the different seasons. Every spring the brown earth turns green as the leaves return to the trees. Summer brings an abundance of color and an agreeable level of heat. Fall g

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January & February 2011

INFORMATION: The Galena/ Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) The Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) was established in 1983 as a department of county government. The Bureau’s mission is to develop year-round sustainable tourism for Jo Daviess County in a manner that will favorably impact the county residents’ quality of life and economic well-being. The Bureau is unlike a typical convention and visitor’s bureau in that it is not a membershipbased organization. This structure allows the Bureau staff to focus attention on destination marketing rather than meeting the needs of individual members. Participation in Bureau programs is open to any Jo Daviess County business that enhances the visitor’s experience. For a fee, non-lodging businesses located outside of Jo Daviess County are welcome to participate in Bureau programs. Businesses interested in enrolling in Bureau programs can contact the CVB administration office at (815) 777-3557. Although a division of Jo Daviess County government, the CVB is supported by an Advisory Board consisting of representatives of the visitor industry, local governments and experienced businesspersons. The nine Advisory Board members serve at the pleasure of the Jo Daviess County Board and meet in the Jo Daviess County Courthouse at 6 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. For visitor information, telephone the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau at (877) 464–2536.

endows us with beautiful gold and perfect outdoor weather. As winter approaches we wake up one morning to a blanket of snow covering the entire countryside. For a few months we are preoccupied with keeping warm, avoiding road accidents, and maintaining access to our property. While winter is something most people tolerate with the knowledge it will inevitably end there are those who look forward to it. These are the people who enjoy winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice-fishing and skiing. Chestnut Mountain’s winter terrain is geared for all levels of skiers and snow-boarders. The 475-foot vertical drop runs 3,500 feet through nineteen runs ranging from novice to black diamond. Two quad chairs, four triple chairs and three surface lifts take you back to the top after your thrilling descent. Chestnut Mountain’s 20,000 square foot ski center houses an apparel shop, equipment rental area and ticketing outlet. The apparel shop features Rossignol skis and boots, Burton boards and clothing from Burton and Nordica. To truly customize your Midwest skiing experience, The Ski Center Pro Shop also houses a ski school, first aid station and tuning shop. Lastly, the equipment rental area perpetually whisks visitors through 2,400 sets of rental gear and on to the hill where they belong. Thanks to stateof-the-art snow grooming and the largest snowmaking system in the Midwest, Chestnut Mountain makes sure the trails remind you of last night’s fresh snowfall – even if there wasn’t. Call (800) 798-0098 or view current snow conditions online. Get a look at the slopes before you even get to the mountain on the internet. The Slope Terrain Report shows you precisely where features are located today. Chestnut Mountain’s 50 professional guides and instructors look forward to showing you all that our slopes have to offer. While being serious about teaching you to ski or snowboard, we also focus on making every lesson enjoyable. No matter what your skill level is, we invite you to discover how much fun Chestnut Mountain’s winter sports can be. Please send inquiries to skischool@ chestnutmtn.com. We tend to associate skiing with Colorado, the Alps or other distant locations. Chestnut Mountain is right here on our doorstep. It is a place you can visit for a few hours or for a weekend. Feel like a little skiing after work? It is close enough for that to be a reality. Being close you can be spontaneous and visit on the spur of the moment. There is ample accommodation and dining establishments in the region. q

January & February 2011

WINE COLUMN

Start 2011 with champagne or sparkling wine

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wine in a clear bottle with hearts on it. Now, I would never purchase a wine just for the label, but when it is as good as well, then it is fun to go with. That’s what we will be having. You can buy Wide River Winery wine at the Family Beer and Wine Store going in to Dubuque on U.S. 20. Have you heard of Greenup? It is located in central Illinois near Charleston. There is a winery there called Cameo Vineyard (cameowine. com). My husband goes through there on his way home from traveling for business. The first time he have to start off this new year by clearing up some stopped there he saw two little kids things that I wrote in my last article. First of all, the selling grapes on the porch. Now, apple wine that I talked about was from Stonecliff when we stopped there this year the Winery in Dubuque, Iowa. The apples that were owner told us that those kids are now used in that wine were from Czipar’s orchard in Dubuque, Suzanne Boyer teenagers and at football practice, too. And the reason that you tasted so much cinnamon etc. My how time flies. We picked up when you warmed it up was because a cinnamon stick was two bottles that would be perfect for Valentine’s Day. One is added to the saucepan. Did anyone try it? I served it at a a cherry wine in a frosted bottle and another one is a semimeeting at my house and everyone loved it. sweet white called Kissing Bridge with a picture of the town’s How about the champagne covered bridge on the label. Both were very tasty. that I recommended — did Whatever wine you decide to go with, have a Happy anyone try the Schramsberg? Valentine’s Day next month. Keep warm and toasty. Another clarification on Suzanne Boyer thinks that life’s too short to drink bad champagne is that if it comes wine. She can be reached at: winesetc@yahoo.com. q from the region in France, it is Champagne. But, if it comes from somewhere else, it should be called sparkling wine. My husband brought home a bottle of Roderer Estate sparkling wine from Surdyk’s in Minnesota and then I read an article in the Oct. 31 issue of Wine Spectator about how good it was this year — “The best version ever!” Brut NV (91, $23) He called our son, who lives in Minneapolis and told him to get six more bottles for us and keep one for himself. I then found it rated at 89 points in the Nov. 15 issue of Wine Spectator and good through 2013. It was described as crisp and refreshingly minerally, offering tart Gala apple and lemon aromas and focused flavors of yeasty citrus and anise. A hint of cherry lingers on the finish. So, we have through 2013 before we need to drink all of them. Valentine’s Day is coming up next month. Champagne, or sparkling wine, is good for then but a red wine or blush can be good too. Pinot Noir is a good light-bodied wine. It is one of the principal grapes in French Champagne. I have recommended a Bogle Pinot Noir 2008. And we have a Pinot Noir from Silver Moon winery near Lake Carroll. It is a 2005, so we should drink it soon. It’s always fun to get a bottle for Valentine’s Day with an appropriate label referring to the special day. I already have two at home that I can use. One bottle is Blushing Testimony 2 W . Main St., Historic Downtown Freeport that is from Wide River Winery near Clinton, Iowa. The 815-233-5626 • Mon-Fri 9-5, Saturday 9-3 other one from the same winery is called Be Mine and is red

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January & February 2011

TRAVEL TALES

Many tables were full of Alebrijes, miniature real and imaginary animals, to choose from.

Oaxaca!

An oasis from the cold in Mexi c o STORY AND PHOTOS BY ANN YOUNG For ETC... Magazine

E A girl paints Alebriges, which are figures carved from copal wood, and then painted to resemble a fantasy animal.

xploring Mexico from the center out has been a goal of my husband, Steve, and I for the last few years. We like to take a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vacation in January to find some sunshine. So, we have gone to Mexico on five different trips and only once stayed at a coastal town. I like the center of the country where there are fewer tourists and you have more of a taste of the sites of another country. We have returned twice to Oaxaca, a g

January & February 2011

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world heritage site, which is southeast of Mexico City and in the heart of the country as it moves south. It offers us sun, good prices, great food and wonderful day trips. Oaxaca is best known for its Day of the Dead Ceremony, mole sauce, alebrijes (imaginary animals) and, of course, chocolate. On each trip we fly into a small airport and then share a shuttle to our hotel or bed and breakfast. We always stay within walking distance of the Zocalo, which is the center of all social activity. It is surrounded by restaurants and has an 18th century cathedral that stands guard over the area. We feel safe walking all times of the day or night all over the city. We love the many choices in restaurants. Last year we looked up the five top restaurants in the city according to www.tripadvisor. com and went to all five of them. The most expensive one was $15 per person; Residents dance there we were served stuffed shrimp the size of the afternoon my fist – I must admit we away under went back and I had the same entree the second the trees, with time. Since Mexico celebrates the fountains Kings Day we have seen splashing in the lots of parades and most decorations are still up background. during our trip; of course, It is magical... the poinsettia is the flower of choice. The churches are — Ann Young full of people; the Zocalo has tables of families after families – all four generations celebrating together with hot chocolate and food in the evening. During the day we walk to another square where they El Tule — the most voluminous tree in the world. make the best ice cream in the world – every flavor to choose from – pistachio, mango, pineapple, etc. They stir the cream as you watch. You sit under umbrellas in the sunshine and have your afternoon treat as children run El Árbol del Tule (Spanish for “the Tule Tree”) is a tree around under your feet. located in the church grounds in the town center of Santa María del Tule in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, approximately Each night music fills the Zocolo, and on Sunday 9 kilometers east of the city of Oaxaca on the road to Mitla. afternoons the place boasts a 100-piece orchestra It is a Montezuma Cypress, or Ahuehuete (meaning “old man playing dance music. Last year a young teenager stood of the water” in Nahuatl). It has the stoutest trunk of any tree up and offered me his chair, and his father asked me in the world. In 2005, its trunk had a circumference of 119 feet, equating to dance. I asked Steve, “Would that have happened to a diameter of 38.1 feet. to a foreigner in our country?” I doubt it. The men all It is so large that it was originally thought to be multiple wear suits, the woman their best with hats, heels, etc. trees, but DNA tests have proven that it is only one tree. This Residents dance the afternoon away under the trees, does not rule out another hypothesis, which states that it comprises multiple trunks from a single individual. with the fountains splashing in the background. It is The age is unknown, with estimates ranging between 1,200 magical, and we like to arrive before Sunday so we can and 3,000 years, and even one claim of 6,000 years; the enjoy it. best scientific estimate based on growth rates is 1,433-1,600 Did I mention the markets? All over town, with one years. Local Zapotec legend holds that it was planted about market being better than the next. We meander past all 1,400 years ago by Pechocha, a priest of Ehecatl, the Aztec wind god, in broad agreement with the scientific estimate; the animals that are carved into fantastic beings, wildly its location on a sacred site (later taken over by the Roman painted with stripes, dots, etc. Green tigers, orange Catholic Church) would also support this. coyotes, pink dogs, stripped red mice, blue zebras, and The tree is occasionally nicknamed the “Tree of Life” from on and on. Craftsmen exhibit their wares at every street all the images of animals that are reputedly visible in the tree’s gnarled trunk. corner. You can buy a three-inch animal or a three-foot— Wikipedia.org tall animal. g

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Widest tree in the world

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January & February 2011

On mornings we walk to our favorite coffee shop after breakfast and have one more cup of the locally-raised coffee for $1 a cup. Steve does his Sudoku and I plan the The first alebrijes originated with Pedro Linares. After day. dreaming the creatures while sick in the 1930s, he began to We meander down to the Mayordomo and watch them create what he saw in cardboard and papier mache. His work make chocolate, and then after we stand in line we decide caught the attention of a gallery owner in Cuernavaca and later, the artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. we absolutely must have a cup of the world’s best hot — Wikipedia.org chocolate, and so what if it is 80 degrees out? We stand in line for a two-top table so we can sit and savor our chocolate before we walk on. Our days are spent meandering the streets or taking short day trips. The Tule Tree is a short bus ride away and is supposed to be the oldest tree in the world. It is estimated that is 2,000+ years old and takes up a whole block. It is fenced in and guarded: you must pay 25 cents to see this tree inside the fence. The trunk is so enormous that it does not even fit on your camera screen to take a picture. Tourists drive for miles just to see this ancient cypress tree. Monte Alban is an interesting day trip if you like ruins and enjoy hiking. You can walk all over this Zapotec religious site by yourself, or take a guide. It will wear you out, but it is worth the climb to see the wonderful vistas from on top of one of the walls. We have gone twice to the small village where they carve the strange The brightly colored giraffe souvenir that came home in the suitcase. animals that the area is known for. Young men and woman are carving or painting all day She speaks no English (our Spanish is limited), and and night every day of the year. I find a treasure that he even goes back the next year as he loves the caring makes me smile and decide it will fit both on my kitchen attitude of the stylist to do his hair just right. She is ledge and in my suitcase. thrilled at the tip Steve leaves, I entertain the two small One day we decide to try out the local barber. She gives children that peek out of the curtained living area. We are Steve a haircut, shampoo and massage with tip for $5. indeed “strange” to them. Our B&B of choice is Casa del Los Bugambilias – another trip advisor find. We have to rent 6 months in advance in order to get one of their rooms. The location is perfect and the breakfasts are to die for. Each morning some new menu item is on the board and they serve us large helpings. It is always served on beautiful china with matching napkins and juice glasses. Homemade jam and bread fill the bread baskets and coffee and hot chocolate are always available. The décor in this home is designer perfect, with a resident cat that one night sat outside our room and howled for entrance – just like home. We sit and share stories with the other travelers and decide on how to spend the day. After two visits – we have our favorite haunts that we look forward to returning to. This might be our home for a month down the road. It is picture perfect and affordable; I ache to go back.

More on ALebrijes

Shrimp artfully arranged for dinner.

Ann Young can be reached at ann.young@ journalstandard.com. Take along a sense of adventure and sense of humor and you can go anywhere. q

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Eagles on the January & February 2011

Mississippi

The majestic birds make their home near Jo Daviess County STORY BY P.J. FRANCIS For ETC... Magazine t has been well documented that Benjamin Franklin did not consider the bald eagle to be the best choice for the American national bird. He felt the humble turkey a better choice describing it as “a bird of courage, and would not hesitate to attack a grenadier of the British guards, who should presume to invade his farmyard with a red coat on.” g

Les Zigurski / wildlifeimagesbyles.net

The lower of the two eagles in this photo was diving down to the river to catch a fish, and the second eagle moved in with an attempt to try to steal the fish from the first bird. After a very brief moment of aerial combat, the fish was dropped back into water, and neither eagle was able to enjoy a meal from the catch.

Wintering bald eagles

By Les Zigurski Large numbers of bald eagles spend their summers and nest in locations to the north of our area. Each winter, these eagles move south, where they can find open water and better opportunities to catch fish. Many of these eagles spend their winters along the Mississippi and other rivers in our area. During the next several weeks, the wintering eagles should be moving into the area. Included with this article are photos of some of these winter visitors from the last few years along with the “stories behind the photos.” — Les Zigurski, a resident of Jo Daviess County, took the pictures. For more, see www.wildlifeimagesbyles.net.

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January & February 2011

While there are a handful of people at the present time who do not like the bald eagle because of its habit of killing fish and animals for food most people hold the majestic bird in reverence. Bald eagles have 7,000 feathers. Wild bald eagles may live three decades but the average lifespan is fifteen to twenty years. Captive eagles have been known to live longer. There are several reasons for a bald eagle not surviving. Unscrupulous people shoot them to sell their feathers and talons on the black market. They are occasionally inadvertently killed by recreational hunters seeking other birds. Electrocution occurs from taking off and landing on power poles when their large wings bridge two wires. Lead poisoning from eating wounded deer, ducks, and other game which eluded the hunter and later died. There are regulations concerning the Les Zigurski / wildlifeimagesbyles.net use of lead ammunition for hunting This eagle was flying back to the roost with a rather large fish that it had just water fowl. Shooters should check taken from the Mississippi. with the local authorities before heading out. by James Gates Percival Young eagles, not proficient at the art of hunting, are sometimes the Bird of the broad and sweeping wing Thy throne is on the mountain top; victim of ingesting poison meat used Thy home is high in heaven, Thy fields – the boundless air; to bait wolves and coyotes. Many of Where wide the storms their banners fling, And hoary peaks that proudly prop them also starve to death during their And the tempest clouds are driven. The skies, thy dwellings are. first winter. Collisions with vehicles are a more common occurrence than one might realize. Raptor center has an eagle that was injured in such an incident. Unable to fly since its recovery it is used for educational purposes. If an eagle ends up in the water due to misjudgment of altitude or snagging a large fish, there’s a danger they may die of exposure. If an eagle is dragged into the water by a fish too large to lift it may be dragged under the surface. An eagle’s lifting capacity is about four pounds. Sometimes the eagle is so hungry it refuses to let go. The eagle is a strong swimmer, but if the water is very cold, it may be overcome by hypothermia. Before European settlers arrived bald eagles existed along the Atlantic and Pacific coast. They inhabited every Les Zigurski / wildlifeimagesbyles.net large river and lake within North One of these four eagles had pulled a large fish out of the melting ice in a backwater lake. Immediately, the other eagles joined in with the hope of being able to get the fish. America. They eat both fresh and salt Over a period of about 20 minutes, each of the birds briefly had possession of the fish water fish. As the population grew, as each, in turn, stole the fish from the eagle that previously had possession of it. the eagle population declined. The g

The Eagle

January & February 2011

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Respect for eagles and their habitat

Les Zigurski / wildlifeimagesbyles.net

This eagle was just beginning to rise up from the water to fly back to the roost with a rather large fish that it had just pulled from the water.

food supplies for eagles decreased because they competed with humans for food. The humans had guns. As the human population expanded westward, the natural habitat of the eagles was destroyed, leaving them fewer places to nest and hunt, which caused the population of bald eagles to decline sharply by the late 1800s. Many people shot the eagles for sport and to protect their domestic animals. Thousands of bald eagles were killed in Alaska during the first half of the twentieth century by salmon fisherman who feared for their livelihood. Today about half of the entire bald eagle population lives in Alaska. In 1940 the Bald Eagle Act was passed in an effort to curb the reduction in the bald eagle population. Unfortunately, the widespread use of the pesticide DDT almost decimated them. While DDT did not directly effect the birds if weakened the shell of their eggs. The egg shells became too thin and were often crushed. The DDT also caused infertility among male eagles. The Endangered Species Act was signed into law in 1973 by President Richard Nixon. DDT was banned in 1975.

Alaska is a long way to go for someone who would just like to see bald eagles. Probably the best alternative is the Northern Mississippi valley during January and February. As many as five thousand bald eagles winter on the river between Cairo, Illinois and St. Paul, Minnesota. The Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge was established in 1924 to preserve the Upper Mississippi bottom lands for fish, migratory birds, other wildlife and people. In November eagles migrate to the park from nesting grounds further north in search of food. Their numbers peak in January and February and most have left by late March. Eagles mate for life and only select another mate if its companion dies. They return to the same nest year after year and add to it on each visit. Nests can reach 10-feet across and can weigh several tons. The bald eagle acquired its name from the old English word “balde” meaning white-headed. They are among the largest North American birds with the females being slightly larger than the males. q

By Les Zigurski In spite of the grace and power that bald eagles display as they soar over our heads or dive to the surface of the water to snag a fish, their lives can be a daily struggle for survival. Especially during the cold of winter, eagles have little reserve of energy, and they need to use the energy that they have to find and capture food. They do not have an excess of energy to waste flying about without purpose. Because of this, humans can unknowingly put the birds at risk and reduce their chances of survival. When humans approach roosting eagles and cause them to fly off of the roost or when people cause eagles to move away from their sources of food, they are forcing those eagles to use up energy that they otherwise would be using to catch their next meal. Thus, while it can be a genuine thrill to watch or photograph the eagles as they show off their grace and power, it is important that we be respectful of the birds and of their habitat. It is especially critical that we be mindful of not trying to approach eagles at such close distances that we are invading their comfort zones and are forcing them into flight. By being respectful of the eagles and their habitat, not only will we be helping them in their survival efforts, but we will also be increasing the chance that those birds will be around in the future when we wish to enjoy watching them again. — Les Zigurski, a resident of Jo Daviess County, took the pictures. For more, see www.wildlifeimagesbyles.net.

For another eagle story, see page 14

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January & February 2011

The Bald Eagle

pairs counted in the lower 48 states. That number could have dropped to zero, like the passenger pigeon population, but for three important steps taken by the federal government. First, the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940 made the taking, possession and commerce in eagles a crime. However, in spite of this, bald eagle populations continued to drop until it was discovered that the wide-spread use of DDT to combat mosquitoes was negatively impacting eagle survival rates. Research showed that DDT concentrated in flora and fauna as it moved up the food chain until it reached levels that began to interfere with calcium metabolism in eagles. This caused weakened eggshells that tended to By Laurie Mattas of the NWIL Green Team break before hatching, causing the eagle population to plummet even more. The banning of DDT in 1972 was driving to the grocery store in Galena the and the passing of the Endangered Species act in 1973 other day and something in the sky caught my started the long comeback for the bald eagle. By June attention. So, as most birders are wont, I took my of 2007, almost 10,000 nests were counted in the lower eyes off the road (not a good idea) and checked it 48 and the bald eagle was delisted as an endangered out. It was big and dark and I could tell by the length of species, although it continues to be protected under its wings and the way they were the Bald and Golden Eagle held out perfectly straight that it Protection Act. wasn’t a hawk or vulture. Could From 1943 to the late 70s there it be? Then, the sun glinted on its were no known nests in the state white head and I knew for sure of Illinois. Now there are about ... it was an eagle soaring above 50 known bald eagle nests in the roof tops and church steeples Illinois, nine of which are located of town! What a majestic sight! at the Lost Mound Unit of the But on thinking it over, I had Upper Mississippi River National been seeing an eagle perched Wildlife and Fish Refuge. in the trees along stagecoach Longtime Guardian Beth Pomaro road just outside of town near monitors two of those nests and Les Zigurski / wildlifeimagesbyles.net the river. Maybe (s)he has a nest is happy to report that four eagles When the eagles catch a very small fish, near town or is checking out the fledged from them last year. Close they will generally eat the fish on the fly neighborhood prior to moving in! and continue looking for a larger fish. This to 100 percent! We Northwest Illinois residents photo captured an eagle transferring a However, bald eagles still small fish from its talons to its beak. have become accustomed to continue to face hazards that seeing eagles this time of year near the dams along the must be closely monitored and controlled. Even Mississippi, but, for the past few years I’ve been hearing though injuring them is illegal, they are still harassed, more stories of seeing them farther inland. Being birds injured and killed by guns, traps, power lines, of prey, bald eagles aren’t particularly neighborly. They windmills, poisons, contaminants and destruction of can be seen in large concentrations this time of year habitat. Yet, there is much less funding available to only because of the dearth of open water. But to settle provide for their management and protection. Public down and build a nest that they will return to each year, awareness about their status, strict enforcement of they need to find a tall, sturdy tree located near a source protective laws, preservation of their habitat, and of free flowing water and away from prying eyes in the support for environmental conservation programs are middle of their own big (from 30 to 120 acres) territory. needed to assure them a healthy and secure future. So, just like human young families in urban areas, they’ve started to spread out to the remoter “suburbs.” Laurie Mattas, a member of the Northwest Illinois As the world contemplates the potential of mass Green Team, lives in rural Elizabeth. Since her extinctions caused by habitat destruction and climate retirement to Jo Daviess County in 2004, she has become change, there are lessons to be learned from the bald involved in many local organizations including the Jo eagle. Our national symbol, native to every state but Daviess Conservation Foundation and its affiliate, the Hawaii, was on the brink of extinction thanks to Conservation Guardians of Northwest Illinois. She and wide-spread habitat destruction, poisoning (DDT) her husband Rich, along with several other Guardians, and hunting. By 1963 there were only 417 nesting lead eagle watching tours at Lost Mound. q

Back from the brink

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January & February 2011

Helpful hints if you wish to take Fluffy or Fido on vacation

Travelling with a pet PHOTOS AND STORY BY P.J. FRANCIS For ETC... Magazine

ABOVE: Korky enjoyed her journey to Hogback Bridge in Madison County, Iowa, with Sasha and P.J. Francis. RIGHT: The owner of this Honda Gold Wing 1500 built a picket-fence trailer to bring his dog on his rides.

t seems more and more people are taking their pets along with them when they are travelling. “As we look at transporting a dog in a car, there are several options,” said Carolyn Sluiter, D.V.M. at New Hope Veterinary Clinic, German Valley. “One is putting it in a cage. It is really important that you make sure you keep them safe. Another possibility is putting a harness on them that can be clipped into a seat belt to keep them from getting thrown off of the seat. Those are the two main ways that we like to see them transported.” Carolyn believes it is a distraction to have a dog moving freely in a car. “Another thing that people love to do, that they really shouldn’t, is allow their dogs to put their head out the window,” she continued. “It is not good because eye injuries can occur. Dogs love having the wind in their face. “There are rare cats that enjoy having car rides, and lay in the car someplace; it is much, however, safer to have them in a carrier,” Carolyn said. “You don’t want them to get distracted or get thrown off a seat and possibly get under your foot while you are trying to apply the brake.” Animals can get sick in cars, which can be an extremely inconvenient and unpleasant experience for all the parties concerned. “When going on a long ride with pets, I would recommend feeding g

January & February 2011

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them lightly and probably a couple of hours before you leave,” Carolyn said. “Give them the main meal after you arrive at the hotel or other final destination.” She pointed out another concern during summertime travel if pets are allowed to crawl around the vehicle. Pets can get up onto the back window ledge where they can experience heat exposure. “Anyone contemplating transporting their dog, or other pet, by airplane should first contact the airline company,” Carolyn advised. “Pets usually travel in the cargo hold.” Pets travelling in the cargo hold, including puppies being shipped as gifts, have to have a health certificate that states they are capable of enduring whatever the temperature goes down to. “A few days before, get them used to their travelling crate; then they can feel they are secure,” Carolyn advised. “Keep a favorite blanket or toy that they are used to having with them to help relieve some of that anxiety. Any dog travelling on an airplane will have to have a certificate of veterinary inspection documenting when their last vaccinations were. If you are travelling by car across state lines it is important to at least have your rabies vaccination documents with you.” It is actually possible to pay for a seat for a pet on an airplane. There are also websites telling what Visitors to Galena walk their dogs past Grant’s home. motels and hotels are petfriendly. There are several rules and regulations when taking a dog out of the country. Some countries Northern Illinois’ & Southern Wisconsin’s require that the dog be Largest Furniture & Appliance Dealer microchipped. Andrea Hazzard of Hazzard “A microchip is not a Free Farms near Pecatonica bad idea period, because with her dog. if you get separated from your pet, then you have a much better chance of getting it back; microchips are invaluable,” Carolyn said. A good leash is important for any form of travel. “Most of the diseases that dogs can get by exposure in public places are covered in routine vaccinations,” Carolyn concluded. “If the vaccinations are kept up to date the Dining Room & Dinette Sets • Sofas dogs should be safe while at doggie rest stops or dog Sectionals • Recliners • Computer Desks parks. They eat stuff and their social thing is to get close to another dog. Take along a copy of any medications Entertainment Centers • Bedroom Sets the pet is taking. Have your home veterinarian’s phone CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL BLUE TAG DISCOUNTED MERCHANDISE number for information should your dog become ill. Try to avoid giving unfamiliar foods; bring whatever they normally eat.” Bringing a pet along while travelling can be beneficial for both the pet and the owner. Neither has to suffer Your Brand Name Discount Furniture & Appliance Store the trauma of separation, the necessity of boarding is WELLS avoided, and the owner does not have to worry about the 20 E. Stephenson St. • Downtown Freeport FARGO Financing pet receiving the care he or she would lavish on their best Available 815-235-4911 friend. www.rite-way.info With a few easily followed precautions, travelling with a Regular Hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4 pet can be a positive experience. q

2010

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January & February 2011

Joe Tamborello / ETC... Magazine

Greg Haack pieces together the Packard’s straight-eight cylinder engine in his Forreston garage.

More about the Packard automobile Packard was an American luxurytype automobile marque built by the Packard Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan, and later by the Studebaker-Packard Corporation of South Bend, Indiana. The first Packard automobiles were produced in 1899 and the last in 1958.

How the car came to be Packard was founded by James Ward Packard (Lehigh University Class of 1884), his brother William Doud Packard and their partner, George Lewis Weiss, in the city of Warren, Ohio. Packard was somewhat unsatisfied with the car he had recently bought. He complained to maker Alexander Winton in a letter, offering his suggestions for improvement. The offended Mr. Winton challenged Packard to make a better car himself. Packard then did so, and his brand would last longer than Winton’s. — Wikipedia.org

Greg Haack:

Packard man

Restorer specializes in a classic STORY BY P.J. FRANCIS u For ETC... Magazine

hey say one should never buy a car for restoration that has been taken apart. Parts are certain to be missing. The restorer will waste valuable hours figuring what particular parts are and where they go. There may even be parts from other vehicles in the collection. There is no opportunity to take photos, make drawings and become familiar with the vehicle. Another golden rule is never to purchase a restoration project sight unseen. Sellers have been known to exaggerate, embellish and, yes, lie. Sometimes g

January & February 2011

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they even believe the rusty heap of metal they are purveying is a wonderful piece of automotive history. College fees, new spouses and career changes have been known to affect judgment. Greg Haack broke both of those rules when he acquired his current restoration project – a 1935 Packard Super Eight Coupe Roadster. “Tom, are you sure you have all the parts; a cigar lighter can cost $200,” he asked Mr. Holley on the telephone. “Well, if it cast a shadow I put it in a container,” exclaimed the seller in a musical Alabama accent. It was enough to convince Greg. When the dismantled car was delivered to him complete with a detailed list of parts he knew he had made the right choice. The car’s seller, Tom Holley, had encountered health problems and was unable to complete the project. He passed away in 2010. He did have the satisfaction of knowing his beloved Packard went to a good home. He certainly would be pleased to see the meticulous work Greg is carrying out on the classic automobile. “Some of the most interesting cars were built, in my opinion, between 1932 and 1937,” Greg stated. “That is when the depression was full-blown and you wonder what these Photos by Joe Tamborello / ETC... Magazine cars would have been like The body of the Packard sits in Haack’s garage. had there been a customer base that was bigger.” Greg is fascinated by the innovations manufacturers had – 16-cylinder Cadillacs, 12-cylinder Packards, adjustable shock absorbers — Greg Haack and power brakes, automatic Bijur oiling system, and spring wraps to keep the dirt out of the leaf springs. “The more eccentric car manufacturers went to great efforts to keep everything nice and clean and working for years,” Greg pointed out. “They were built to last a long time.” The 1935 Packard Super Eight Coup Roadster Greg is restoring is the last one known to exist and was the 102nd car built in the coupe roadster form. A lot of people want to know what the Super Eight cost new. “This particular car cost $3,070 without any add-ons or anything special ordered,” Greg explained. ‘The Ford Deluxe Roadster was $550 – so you could get five of six Fords for a car like it.” Nowadays only special collector modern cars such as the British built Morgan have a separate chassis on which the body rests. The concept is known as the “body on frame” design. Modern cars utilize the “unabody” system. “The art of these cars is what attracts a lot of people to them,” Greg mused. “Other people are attracted by the memories associated with a certain type of car. The more knowledge you get the more interest you have in certain An original advertisement in The Saturday Evening Post shows the 1935 Packard Coupe Roadster. areas.” g

“I really like cars and I like the art of the automobile and that art is expressed in a lot of different vehicles.”

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January & February 2011

Despite his present fascination with his Packard classic Greg is not a one-make enthusiast. He drives a Jaguar, a Corvette and a Thunderbird as well as modern practical vehicles. “I try to keep in check neurotic tendency to make everything clean and shiny,” he noted. “One time I was restoring a Model A and I was polishing the top of the frame and my Dad gave me a reality check and said: The body is going to sit on that; nobody is ever going to see it.” Being a high-end luxury car in 1935 the Packard Super Eight had many features not found on cars on the lower end of the motoring ladder. The mechanical brakes have a vacuum assist which in essence means it has power brakes. “The 1934 model had a dial and you could select how much assist you wanted; this one does not have that,” Greg pointed out. It does have a Bijur lubricating system for lubing the chassis at various locations. It has adjustable shock absorbers and the driver can select your ride from soft to firm simply by pulling a lever inside the car. “Some people did not want to be flamboyant so they would pick drab, austere colors,” Greg explained. “Back during the depression people did not want to advertise their wealth. There was an option with Packard where they would delete the signature anywhere on the car. It would not say Packard anywhere; even the hubcaps. Some people wanted a fine car but they did not want to brag and advertize their wealth.” Research has revealed Greg’s car was delivered to East Saint Louis and was owned by Stan Kann. Stan was an entertainer who was on the Johnny Carson Show 77 times in 20 years usually with house wares and his famous collection of vacuum cleaners. “I called him and told him I had his Packard and sent him two photos of it – one to keep and one he signed and sent back,” Greg said. “He said he was so small he used to park on the wrong side of the road so he would step off onto the curb.” Having spent so much time and effort working on the chassis Greg did not want to support it on axel stands and risk damaging the paintwork. He built a special frame that is attached to the brake drums. He also built special frames to support the engine and body. The engine frame is on wheels enabling it to be moved about easily. “In 1935 Packard had the luxury car market pretty much sewn up,” Greg recounted some company history. “The luxury market was small so they introduced a medium sized car called the 120 which was a three-quarter version of the luxury car. It did not have the big, powerful engine but was a great car for the money. They also continued with their Senior Line which started with the Standard Eight 134 inch wheelbase. Then they went up to the bigger frame 139 inch Super Eight which had a bigger engine featuring a nine-bearing crank. Then there was a V-12 all on that same chassis. The Senior Cars amounted to a little over ten percent of the production and they had almost half of the entire workforce building them.” Of the different body styles Greg particularly likes the open top cars because they are more fun. They are also more valuable than the closed top cars. “Packard people love their cars; it is their passion and they

Joe Tamborello / ETC... Magazine

Greg Haack works on suspension parts on the Packard’s chassis at his Forreston garage.

are willing to talk to you about it,” said Greg in reference to the members of the Packard owners clubs. Greg first got involved with old cars at age ten when his father bought a Model A while visiting relatives in Iowa. It was driven 180 miles home after being stored for 12 years. With gently prodding from the young Greg his dad purchased various other old cars over the years. “He was a car guy,” Greg stated. “I really like cars and I like the art of the automobile and that art is expressed in a lot of different vehicles,” Greg concluded. The chassis of Greg’s Super Eight is almost completed at this stage. His attention will next focus on the engine which is refurbished but not detailed. When the engine is running it will be time to concentrate on the body for which he has yet to decide on a color. (For an extra $125 the purchaser of a new Super Eight Coupe Roadster could specify any color he wanted. Therefore, the restorer is not restricted to the colors the car came in. For $50 extra he could have the undercarriage painted in his choice of color.) The upholstery, chrome embellishments, wheels, and the many ancillary parts will finish the car. q

January & February 2011

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Red Mary: A piece of Irish history STORY AND PHOTO BY P.J. FRANCIS For ETC... Magazine

man-servants, who reputedly did more than make tea and tend the grounds, is irresponsible. Let us assume she did not have 25 at any one time and leave it at that. The historians now insist Lemaneagh Castle was not or the traveler following the somewhat narrow, surrounded by a large wall and the residents did not two-lane, dry stone wall lined road between impose a toll on travelers heading northwards to the Corofin and Kilfenora in County Clare, Ireland, the imposing ruin of Lemaneagh (or Leamaneh) Burren country. Parts of the wall are still evident today Castle will come as a surprise. If he or she does not have a and why would they choose to build the castle at a fork in compelling commitment elsewhere, it is likely he (or she) the road if tolls were not to be extracted from passersby? The self-righteous historians tell us Maura Rua’s first will be overcome by an urge to stop and look at the stone husband was a wealthy landowner called Daniel Neylon. building. There are families of that name in the region today. He Unfortunately, some travelers are so surprised by the died after five years of marriage, leaving a widow with castle they forget the rules that exist for the safety of four children and a large all road users. If they are amount of land. fortunate enough to be driving Within a year she married ahead of a local resident their a neighbor called Conor safety is assured as people O’Brien. are used to tourists stopping Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien built abruptly in the center of the a new castle that has survived roadway. However, if the to this day. With the extra following car is also driven children she had with O’Brien by a tourist, perhaps fresh they needed the space. off a transatlantic flight into The peaceful conditions Shannon Airport, a near miss that had existed in Ireland of a rear-ender may occur. during that time were At best this will involve an shattered by the plundering exchange of names and, armies of Oliver Cromwell. later, an extra charge on a It was a group of Cromwell’s credit card by the car hire soldiers that killed O’Brien. company. At worst there will The dull historians have be the necessity to summons debunked the belief that, on observing his comrades members of the Gardai (police) and ambulance services. A decade or two in the past it was possible to gain access approaching the castle with her husband’s lifeless body Red Mary is reputed to have exclaimed: “We need no dead to Lemaneagh Castle. Nowadays entry is impeded by men here!” an electric fence and warning notices. Ireland is second What was a woman to do with a large family, no to the United States in the practice of suing property owners for accidents. The people who resided in the castle husband, and property ripe for plundering? She did what any woman in her position would do; she married one surely would shake their heads in disbelief if they knew of Cromwell’s soldiers, of course. Doing so ensured the modern people find it necessary to blame someone for property would be kept safe for her children. their own clumsiness. We can only imagine their disdain Lemaneagh Castle is now merely a shell with the roof at a judicial system that encouraged such practices. (Such and floors long gone. Cattle seek shelter from the wind people may well have ended up in the castle dungeon.) and rain within its walls. A farmhouse and out-buildings Red Mary (Maura Rua), who lived in Lemaneagh in the seventeenth century, would have little sympathy for a stands close by. Finding a space to park the hire car is near impossible person who slipped and fell on her property. As with all for the curious tourist wishing to take a quick photograph. prominent women of past times, modern historians go The grassy area at the fork in the road is usually occupied to great pains to insist more mythology than facts have by a one or more cars whose owners are involved in a survived. car-pool group. There is nothing for it but to park on It is probably true that she did not really marry and murder as many as 35 husbands. However, stating that she the roadway and risk the wrath of other motorists and had a mere three, none of whom she murdered, is nothing perhaps members of the Gardai. There are a great many other castles throughout the short of sanitizing the lady’s reputation and memory. Since most of the information about Red Mary has been island of Ireland. Some are open to the public and have a passed down by word of mouth, a little exaggeration may parking lot. However, as interesting as their history may be, they did not have a resident like Red Mary. q be involved. However, denying she had as many as 25

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JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2011

WONDERING ABOUT TECHNOLOGY? Today’s smart devices eliminate need for big home computers BY MOLLY LOGAN ANDERSON

GATEHOUSE NEWS SERVICE ILLUSTRATION

January & February 2011

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No matter what generation you call your own, gadgets are all the rage. But for baby boomers specifically, certain products on today’s market deliver convenience, entertainment and even safety to your door. Check out three of the latest tech products available and determine which one might make sense for you.

APPLE IPAD

AMAZON KINDLE

GARMIN GPS

WHAT IT CAN DO FOR YOU

If you’re looking for userfriendly, mobile-based computing, the iPad will not disappoint. Consider it a one-stop shop for all your needs: e-mailing family and friends, surfing the Net, photo viewing and TV or movie watching, just to name a few. The iPad also offers book-reading capabilities, making this a great choice for readers looking to upgrade to a touchscreen computer and reading device. The iPad provides all the functionality of a laptop, without the bulk, so it’s easy to travel with.

If you’re an avid reader toying with the idea of upgrading to an e-reader, the Amazon Kindle just might be for you. Falling prices are increasing adoption across all generations, making this comfortable-to-hold gadget highly accepted by even the most avid paper book fans. A battery that lasts about two days while turned on makes this device perfect for long car or plane rides. Plus, it can store the equivalent of dozens of books at once.

If you log lots of miles to the kids’ and grandkids’ houses or the open road, a Garmin navigation system is for you. Folks with a knack for selfnavigation even enjoy the features of the Garmin, which allow users to have confidence traveling in uncharted territories, find lodging, restrooms or food and even map out the most efficient route taking construction and traffic into consideration. Available in a variety of screen sizes and prices, navigation systems also provide security on the road for traveling boomers and those waiting for them at their destination.

BOOMER BONUS

Large buttons and screen make this a perfect gadget for slightly less nimble fingers and eyes.

Renowned for its eye-easy e-ink technology in lieu of a back light, the Kindle also offers a vocabulary function that allows readers to look up definitions of unknown words.

Wide-screen models and features such as “Where am I?,” which allows users to direct emergency personnel to a location similar to OnStar, provide peace of mind. “Where did I park?” is also available on some models.

BOTTOM LINE

IPads are available everywhere, from big-box stores to Apple stores. Prices currently range between $560 and $910, depending on internal memory, 3G or Wi-Fi capability.

For now, Kindle can only be purchased at www.Amazon. com, however, there are similar products available by Sony and Barnes & Noble that can be purchased in retail stores. Cost for the latest-generation Kindle, with global capability and 3G plus Wi-Fi is $189. Kindle e-books are typically $9.99 or less.

Ranging in price from $120 to $450, Garmin products run the gambit of features, capabilities and screen sizes. Review what each model has to offer and find retailers at www.Garmin.com.

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January & February 2011

Are vitamins wortH THE COST? Doctors say yes — and here are 5 to focus on BY KAREN CAFFARINI

f everyone ate healthy foods all the time, there would be no need for vitamins and supplements, doctors and dieticians agree. “But no one is eating well. Only one in 100 Americans is meeting their minimal, not optimal, requirements,” says Elizabeth Somer, a registered dietician in Oregon and author of “Eat Your Way to Happiness.” Dr. Christine Wood, a

California pediatrician and author, says average American diets lack vitamins D, E, C, calcium and magnesium. Somer says people should get as many vitamins as they can by eating healthy foods like salmon, vegetables and fruit, and skipping junk and processed foods. The following vitamins and supplements should fill in the gaps.

Generics vs. name-brand medications Generic drugs are cheaper, saving consumers $8 million to $10 million a year, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Web site, www.fda.gov. That doesn’t mean they’re less effective, the FDA assures. The regulating agency

requires generics be identical to brandname drugs in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. The biggest price differences, it says, are in research and advertising.

Multivitamins. This is the least-expensive alternative to getting some of the vitamins and minerals that most diets lack, says Dr. Marcus Laux, a registered naturopathic doctor. He says most contain adequate amounts of minerals like zinc and copper to meet daily requirements, but adds that you should avoid commercial brands, which often have synthetic nutrients. Vitamin D. Wood says it is almost impossible to get enough vitamin D from the sun now that people are using sunscreen when going outside. Somer says you can’t get enough from food, either. “Seven out of 10 kids are low in vitamin D,” Wood says. Omega-3 DHA. Wood says most people don’t eat enough fatty fish, which is high in omega-3, an important supplement for the immune system that also helps with asthma, allergies and cardiovascular health. Maik Wiedenbach, who provides training and dietary advice as the owner of Adlertraining TM in New York City, recommends 6 to 10 grams daily. Dr. Bill Sears, a California pediatrician and co-author of “The Baby Book,” says the supplements are in especially high demand for kids and toddlers because they are still growing and the brain requires copious amounts of omega-3 fatty acids in its developmental stage. Magnesium/calcium. “Most women don’t get enough calcium, and just taking Tums doesn’t work,” Somer says. She recommends a combination calcium/magnesium supplement with two parts calcium for one part magnesium. Vitamin C. A daily intake of vitamin C helps prevent damage to the body by boosting the immune system, says Sears. He says it also helps the body absorb nutrients like iron and calcium. Kids should get roughly 15 to 45 mg per day, Sears says.

2 3

4 5

ILLUSTRATION BY GATEHOUSE NEWS SERVICE

January & February 2011

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Health by the cup

Why coffee, organic eggplant and more can help your body Drink to your health

PHOTOs BY STOCK.XCHNG

Lose the weight and fight the flu It’s flu season again, which means it’s time to lose some weight. University of North Carolina researchers studying mice’s reaction to the flu found that all the skinny ones survived, but 25 percent of the heavier ones died. The scientists believe the extra pounds may limit immune-cell memory, making it harder to fight the flu.

Sun attack

Keep the table clear

You may think you’re free from the sun’s rays now that they’re hiding behind cold clouds. But a recent study by Saint Louis University scientists finds that UVA rays can seep through your car window and cause skin cancer. In fact, the study finds that 56 percent of the head and neck cancers in men were on their left side – which is the driver’s side. So before driving, make sure to apply sunscreen.

Want to lose a few pounds? Try moving the serving dishes away from your dinner table. A recent study from Cornell University found that when people serve themselves from the counter or the stove — instead of from the table — they eat up to 35 percent less. The researchers believe that when you have to get up from the table, you’re more likely to think about whether you’re still hungry.

Hop on the machine

Go organic

If you’re looking for a great workout, look no further than the elliptical machine. It’s easier on your knees than running, and a new study from University of Nebraska researchers found that it burns as many calories as running on the treadmill at the same level of intensity.

Here’s another reason you may want to invest in organic food: Spanish researchers found that organic eggplants have 30 percent more diseasefighting antioxidants than those that have pesticides. Add eggplants to the list of kiwis and potatoes that are more nutritious organic than not. Compiled by Danielle Braff

Hearing loss

New studies show that drinking one cup of coffee daily lowers your risk of early death by 37 percent. Drink two, and you’ll reduce your risk of death from heart disease by 25 percent. Three cups will lower your risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia by 65 percent, and if you can drink four, you’ll be 56 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

One out of every six people experiences hearing loss. The worst part: It’s a result of everyday noise, such as loud restaurants, sports games and even the sound of a movie theater, according to the National Institutes of Health. Lower your risk by wearing ear plugs whenever you’re in a noisy environment.

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WILD WEATHER Get ready for a wacky winter Compiled by Melissa Erickson

Dress appropriately If you’re in Chicago, Omaha, Neb., Minneapolis, Detroit, Cleveland, Seattle or Portland, Ore., you’d better get your snow boots ready. According to Joe Bastardi, chief long-range meteorologist for AccuWeather.com, those cities will receive above-normal winter snowfall this year. Alaska residents, along with western and central Canada, will be shivering through severe cold. “The Canadian winter will be as harsh as last year’s was gentle,” Bastardi said.

Varied forecasts A moderate to strong La Niña will be the main climate factor influencing most of the winter weather in the U.S. If you’re in the Pacific Northwest, you should brace yourself for a colder and wetter winter than average, while people in the South and Southeast will have warmer and drier weather than average through February, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Southern winter drought The southern tier of the U.S. should expect abovenormal temperatures and below-normal precipitation this winter, according to AccuWeather.com. But that’s not necessarily a good thing — the dry weather could lead the region into a perilous period similar to the 1950s and 1960s, which led to drought conditions and water shortages. Southern California could also suffer from serious wildfire threats.

Warm water 80 percent of the heat energy from greenhouse gases heating the Earth has gone straight to the ocean, according to a study published in “Journal of Climate.” The deep water is heating up, too. The study found that the deep ocean — the water below 3,300 feet — is taking up about 16 percent of what the upper ocean is absorbing. If that heat went into the atmosphere, it would be warming the Earth at a rate of more than 5 degrees per

Arctic report card

Warnings versus advisories

The Arctic region is heating up so much that it’s severely affecting the local population and ecosystem, says a team of international scientists as reported in the Arctic Report Card. Greenland is experiencing record-setting high temperatures, which is melting the ice and glaciers. And the 2009-10 summer sea ice cover was the third-lowest since satellite monitoring started in 1979.

According to the National Weather Service, a wind chill warning occurs when there is extreme wind chill of -30 degrees or colder and winds are greater than or equal to 10 mph. A wind chill advisory is when there is wind chill between -20 and -30 degrees and winds are greater than or equal to 10 mph.

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rd Jan. 2011 Crossword

Puzzle

January & February 2011

Almost Verbatim

Across 1 Copyedit 7 Louisville Slugger 10 Mom and pop protectors (Abbr.) 13 Western resort lake 18 Kind of market 20 Tony-winning Hagen 21 The fox in Disney’s The Fox and the Hound 22 From the top 23 Award handed out in sections? 26 Sea swallows 27 Compass pt. 28 Follower of N. or S., briefly 29 Unagi, at a sushi bar 30 Stretch, with “out” 31 Tart 33 “Zuckerman Unbound” novelist 35 Get wind of 38 Half of a weightwatcher’s diet? 42 Black Sea port 44 Hire 47 Beloved of Aphrodite 48 Desiccated 49 Making movies 51 Indian side order 52 Artist Doolittle 53 Surrounded by 55 Freelancer’s enc. 56 Stanley Cup org. 57 A chump from dawn ‘til dusk? 61 Space invaders, for short 62 Old spy grp. 64 River to the North Sea 65 Giant Hall-of-Famer 66 Publisher of note 68 Sicilian resort 70 West Pointer 72 Pound, e.g. 73 Optic membrane 76 Have a tab 77 Work unit 78 Tourist’s aid 81 High priest at Shiloh 82 It’s what happens when winter arrives 87 Inuit knife 89 Lulu 90 Casa rooms 91 Opposite of 27 Across 92 Fountain drinks 94 Close at hand 97 Negative words 98 Fairy tale figure 99 Loss of will power 100 Disqualify oneself 103 Injuries to a ghost? 104 Tailor’s line

7 19

63 68

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124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

King Arthur’s lance Heroic poem Young socialites From the top Baseball’s Ripken Tout’s offering Like a female deer, maybe? Absorbed, as a loss Narrowing Three-toed wading birds Dickens pen name Citrus drink Make lace Bio bit Mama rabbit, for one Sty cry

32 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 43 45 46 48 50 53 54 57 58 59 60 63 67 69 70 71 72

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Styptic Passed out Flyspeck Half a sawbuck Frick collection Coxcomb Hippodrome, e.g. Old-fashioned polar person? Surgery tool Anonymous John Mock, in a way Texas city First name in rock Contribute Canary Islands capital, ___ Palmas Turkish VIPs

87 92

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28 31

24 27

Ger. municipality Carnival attractions Musical aptitude Former Olds relatives Mozart’s “Il mio tesoro,” e.g. It keeps an eye on TV Mayhem Selfish gardeners? Chemical suffix Way back when Farm building Salmon River locale Electrical wire features Army member Opera star Midges Discharge Skillful Cartridge contents Week (Basque) Mongrel Sick of commercials? Untilled tract Alpine song Sandpiper Witness Kind of card New Deal agency inits. Deep sleep Barley beards Before amble or cede

131

Solution on page 33 73 74 75 77 79 80 83 84 85 86 88 92 93 95 96 97 98 101 102 103 107 108 109 112 113 114 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123

Venetian red Scale Kissing exam? Times to call, in classifieds Part of a TV feed “The Republic” writer Paddle Extreme The Dukes of Hazzard spinoff Poker get-togethers? Exploits Difficult position Heavenly body ___ du Diable Vardalos of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, for one Roman sun god Pleased as punch San Juan Hill locale Accumulation Verdi’s “___ tu” Chip’s partner Kind of thermometer Petty quarrel Swear words Indonesian outrigger The Matrix hero Prince Valiant’s son Nabokov novel Silent assent Balancing pro Drench Sine ___ non Printer’s widths

January & February 2011

etc ...

Two-Squash Soup INGREDIENTS n 1 large acorn squash n 1 medium red kuri squash n 1 tablespoon canola oil n 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, or more as needed n 1 cup diced yellow onion n 2 to 3 garlic cloves, smashed, peeled and minced n 2 apples (Granny Smith works well), peeled, cored and diced small n 1 teaspoon ground ginger, or more to taste n 4 cups chicken broth n ½ cup medium-dry white wine, delicious but optional n 1 cup bite-size pieces of cooked chicken n Salt and pepper to taste n Garnishes: apple, bacon, basil, lime, pecans or walnuts, maple syrup or your family’s favorites n Croutons: whole wheat bread and sour cream 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the two squash in half; remove and discard the seeds and stringy pulp. Brush the squash centers with oil. Place the halves in a foillined baking pan and bake about 40 minutes, until fork tender. Larger squash may take longer. If necessary, cover the squash lightly with foil so the flesh doesn’t brown. Let the squash cool, then strip out the flesh and set it aside. 2. Place a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat; add butter. When the butter begins to sizzle, saute onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Stir in cooked squash, apples, ginger, chicken broth and white wine, if using. Cook until apple pieces are tender. Let mixture cool, then process in a food processor or blender until smooth. 3. Return mixture to the saucepan; add chicken chunks and bring soup to low simmer. Add salt and pepper to taste. 4. Prepare toppings: Garnishes: Peel and dice apple and sprinkle with lime juice. Fry and crumble or chop bacon. Toast and chop nuts. Slice lime wedges. Place maple syrup in a small container. Croutons: Cut round and triangular shapes from the bread; toast these and top with sour cream. 5. Place hot soup in bowls. You can choose china or use baked acorn squash shells. MAKES 5 to 6 APPETIZER SERVINGS

Squash your high food bills Winter produce is the best bet for your grocery dollar STORY, RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARGARET MAPLES

ome of nature’s hardiest, most colorful foods love the colder months. And because these vegetables and fruits are packed with nutrients and flavor, they help us to enjoy chilly weather, too. The big winter squash family arrived in many supermarkets weeks ago, joining other vivid characters that are harvested in the fall but can be stored and eaten over several months. Among these are apples, beets, leeks, parsnips, rutabagas, turnips and lots of other produce. In general, at this time of year, winter squash and their companions are plentiful in U.S. markets, so they cost less than warm-weather foods shipped long distances from summery environments. Relatively inexpensive and tasty, winter produce has a lot going for it. Winter squash varieties in particular make beautiful entree casseroles and play supporting roles as side dishes. But we love using them in soup that is accented with apples.

We combined acorn and the brilliant red kuri squash in the soup recipe here. If you can’t find red kuri, try one of the other winter varieties. If those Fauvist colors charm you into buying more squash than you can use, just put the extras in an unheated room. Most winter squash keep for weeks, even months, if stored between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. That seems easy, but they’re not pushovers. Before cooking, those hard shells seem a little like armor. Sharpen your knife again. Even if you bake the squash whole — and especially if you use a microwave — you’ll need to make slits in the skin so steam can escape. Otherwise, according to some sources, your squash might blow apart. Baked a day or so ahead, the squash flesh can be refrigerated until you’re ready to make soup. The other ingredients are cooked in advance or are sautéed at top speed, so this recipe comes together fairly quickly.

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January & February 2011

Nothing but the best (sellers) BY PAUL EISENBERG

Take advantage of a cold, blustery afternoon this winter by devouring a book that’s topping the best-seller lists. PHOTO BY STOCK.XCHNG

NAME

“The Confession,” by John Grisham

“Full Dark, No Stars,” by Stephen King

“Port Mortuary,” by Patricia Cornwell

“Mini Shopaholic: A Novel,” by Sophie Kinsella

“The Emperor’s Tomb,” by Steve Berry

PRICE

DESCRIPTION

$28.95

The idea is formulaic: An innocent man is about to die for a crime somebody else committed. But in this story, the perpetrator, close to death himself, is trying nine years after the murder to save the innocent man in the latest by the master of courtroom drama.

$27.99

Stephen King returns to the shorter form that’s frightened countless readers over the years in this new collection of four novellas, including the story of a man whose life unravels after he kills his wife, and another detailing how a man shifts his misfortune and bad luck onto his friend.

$27.95

Detective Kay Scarpetta has made Cornwell into the No. 1 best-selling crime writer for a reason, and she’s back for her 18th adventure, though the story takes place at the beginning of Scarpetta’s career. A 20-yearold mystery threatens to ruin all the detective’s career success.

$25

Rebecca Brandon returns in the latest installment of Kinsella’s wildly successful “Shopaholic” series, along with 2-year-old Minnie, who seemingly has inherited her mother’s love for fine goods. Is it enough to get Rebecca to stop shopping? A tale you might want to share with your daughters.

$26

Berry brings back ex-federal agent Cotton Malone and his one-time lover Cassiopeia Vitt in this adventure that pits the pair against two ruthless Chinese politicians in a quest to find an ancient lamp that, beyond its priceless antiquity, may hold the secret to the future of China.

Save at Amazon and Borders at RadarFrog.com. Sign up today for a free account.

January & February 2011

Home sweet vacation home

Rentability: Consider the size and accommodations for owners, guests and/or tenants. Will you be easily able to rent the property to others throughout the year? What aspects of the home and surrounding area make it appealing as a rental? Read the contract and make sure you know who pays for utilities, Internet access, phone service, cable TV, cleaning and housekeeping. Costs for heating or cooling a house can be sizable. Be sure to get a contact number of the owner or landlord just in case there’s a problem like a broken garage door or leaking water pipe. And remember that you can negotiate everything, from the deposit to the weekly or monthly rent.

BY MELISSA ERICKSON If you’re considering renting, buying or sharing a vacation home this winter, there are plenty of things to think about before making the purchase. And if you don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Finding the perfect vacation villa at the right price requires early planning and organization. Jamie Regan, broker/owner of Century 21 Real Estate Regan Realtors of Mashpee, Ma., said, it’s “an ideal time to consider purchasing a vacation home” because of historically low interest rates, great prices and a wide selection of available properties to choose from. Here are five essential tips.

Location: Which activities, attractions and amenities are offered close to the property, and what draws people to the area? Is your vacation property close to the ski hill or other activities your family is interested in? Is public transportation nearby? Are there ample dining and nightlife options? Enjoyment: Is the property something you can get to easily and use for your own enjoyment? Does it fit with the activities, location, space and vacation atmosphere you envisioned? Can you picture yourself, family and friends making good use of the property? Details: Factor in the deposit. Vacation rental properties often require large upfront deposits. Be sure to find out what conditions need to be met (clean house, all payments made) to get this money back at the PuzzleJunction.com end of your stay. It’s also a good idea to photograph the property to document any existing damage so you won’t be blamed for something you haven’t done. At the end of your stay, be sure to do a walk-through with an owner or landlord to prevent unexpected bills.

THINKING

Crossword Solution Solution Puzzle on page 30 B U C K B O R E D C O M A E L A T E D

A T T A E P R E E R O D E S I D V A A Y S O T A D E W E N L E S N N O C U S U M B E A R C A P L A

S T I L T S

B A O D Z E

H H A E V I D M O N G U C K E T H T P O E R G A V E S N E T S S E B O D E A L A R T T I C S E H O S P

T A H O A G A I T E R N E K E A R N G A G E O I N S A R E T E A R S E T M A P U L S O D A P R I T O B O O T F O P Q U A R U S T O A S H A

Affordability/cost: Does the home fit within your budget? Can you consider it to be a smart investment? To get the best deal, start your search early. Planning six months or even a year in advance will keep costs down. Plus, the best vacation rentals book fast. Once you’ve pinned down your destination, local real estate agents, community newspapers and brokerages are great resources.

Interested in a second property? Now’s a good time to look

R E D A C T O P E N A I R N O B E L P I E S S W D A A C E R B I C A R B S A D O N I S A B R A I T A A L L N H L O S S D E E E N N A S C L E R A E L I A U T U P I P S A L I M M I N E N T R A B U L I A S E A M A D O T A R E N A A N D O L A S E R A D E L T O N

etc ...

E N S E E G E S T

U S E S

E N S

Formerly CENTURY 21 Country North

Of Selling Your Home? Not Sure What To Do First?

Ask a SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST. Specially trained to assist senior clients with major lifestyle transitions.

Knowledge, Expertise, A Realtor You Can Trust. Call me for a FREE market evaluation of your home.

TERESA FOGEL

AGR, CRS, GRI, SRES 815-238-0946 Direct

718 W. Stephenson St. • Freeport, Illinois

815-235-2111

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Journal-Standard 1/11 Word Search

PuzzleJunction.com

January & February 2011 "W" Names

“W” Names V

Solution on page 39

WADE

WAYNE

WILLA

WALDO

WEBSTER

WILLARD

WALLACE

WENDELL

WILLIAM

WALLIS

WENDY

WINIFRED

WALLY

WERNER

WINNIE

WALTER

WESLEY

WINONA

WANDA

WHITNEY

WINSTON

WARD

WILBERT

WOLFGANG

WARREN

WILBUR

WOODROW

WAYLON

WILFRED

WYATT

ger-It

January & February 2011

SUDOKU

etc ...

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Solution on page 39

1 7 4 2 3

4 6 9 7 1 2 5

6 3

Pain, swelling, ents Appointm le Availab t restless legs, in Freepor skin changes, and loss of energy suggests a MEDICAL Tracy Brito, MD, RVT and not just a cosmetic problem.

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5 8 1

2 9 8 5 6 3

Varicose Veins PuzzleJunction.com

6 3

Figger-It To solve the Figger-It, simply change the FIRST letter in each of the words below to form a new word. (Example: Hat can be made into Fat.) Using the new first letter of each word, place it on one of the spaces provided to find the mystery answer. You will have to figure out on which space each letter belongs. Note: some words can be changed into more than one word!

They’re so small!

1/11 SudokuPARCH Solution __________ BLOAT __________ AMP __________ __________ BIER 1 9 7 2 6VASE 3 8 4 __________ 5 TINGLE __________ 4 2 8 5 1 7 3 6 9 CRATE __________ 6 5 3 8 4 9 7 2 1 5 7 9 3 8 2 4 1 6 8What 4 the 6 farmer’s 1 7 5 9 3 kids2called the tiny new-born hogs. 2 3 1 4 9 6 5 8 7 3 __ 6 __ 4 __ 7 __2 __1__9__5 8 7 1 2 9 5 8 6 3 4 9 ©2011 8 5 PuzzleJunction.com 6 3 4 1 7 2

Solution on page 39

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January & February 2011

Dollars sense America’s proudest cheapskate serves up tips for saving money in the new year BY WYNNE EVERETT

or Jeff Yeager, being cheap is a point of pride. The author of “The Cheapskate Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of Americans Living Happily Below Their Means”

has made a career out of sharing his tips for living well on the cheap. Now he travels the country to learn the strategies of fellow frugal types. Here are some of his suggestions for living well on only a little money.

Find deals at RadarFrog.com

January & February 2011

Ways to save in 2011 PRACTICE

Set a per-pound price limit for food purchases

etc ...

HOW TO Yeager used to swear by a $1 per-pound limit, but rising food prices — he lives in highcost-of-living metropolitan Washington, D.C. — have driven his bottom line up to $1.19. Consider the cost of living in your community and your own frugal tolerance before picking a number, but pick one. You’ll find it’s a good strategy for paring down your weekly grocery bills. To make it work, you need to be a creative cook and base your household’s menu on sales and store specials. For instance, this week you might be able to get mangos for $1 per pound, but next week, when they’re twice the price, you will have to choose another fruit that is on sale or in season. “You’ll find it tends to steer you toward a healthier diet,” Yeager said.

Give up the cell

We’ve convinced ourselves that cell phones are necessities, but Yeager begs to differ. “I would simply encourage people to consider what life might be like without a cell phone,” he says. “I have a successful career, I travel, I do all sorts of things and I have never had a problem living without a cell phone. So why does an unemployed teenager need one?” If giving up your cell phone permanently seems like too much to commit to, you might consider agreeing to a one-year trial separation just to see how it goes. Add up how much you save during that time.

Green your clean

Yeager cleans most of his house with homemade cleaner concocted of baking soda and vinegar. Most household cleaners marketed for cleaning one specific surface or room are a waste of money, he says. “Is kitchen tile really that much different than bathroom tile?” he asks. Plus, a baking soda and vinegar solution is easier on the environment than many heavy chemical cleansers.

Wear your clothes out, but do it slowly

Yeager advocates washing clothes only in cold water to save energy and extend the life of the garments. Also, line dry your laundry instead of using the dryer, which also uses energy and damages fabric over time. Yeager suggests buying classic, rather than trendy, clothes and wearing them until they wear out, not just as long as they’re the height of fashion.

Shift gears

If you’re in the market for a new or used car, shop for a standard-transmission model. They use less fuel — sometimes getting 2 or 3 miles per gallon more than their automatic counterparts. And because driving a stick shift is a dying art, you can usually bargain a better price if you know how to drive a manual transmission vehicle.

Park your car expenses

Consider becoming a one-car family. “We’ve gone car crazy,” Yeager says. “The average family has 2.5 cars now. If you can consider giving up one car, it’s a huge savings.” Yeager and his wife share one vehicle. It requires some coordination, he says, but it’s worth it in the saved gas money, repair costs, license plate fees and insurance. On the rare occasions when they absolutely need a second car, Yeager rents one. “Yes, it’s an expense,” he says. “But it still is far less than the cost of owning and maintaining two vehicles.”

PHOTOS BY STOCK.XCHNG

etc ...

January & February 2011

Mediating Medicare A primer on coverage and changes for 2011 BY KAREN SORENSEN Let’s face it — the prospect of signing up for Medicare can be daunting. “Seniors need to understand their eligibility and what additional coverage they need” before they enroll, says Christie Luke, director of financial operations for Rising Medical Solutions, a medical care management company based in Chicago. “They just can’t enroll at any time. Each program has periods and restrictions.” Here are five things Luke says you should know if you plan to enroll yourself or a family member in 2011.

Money talk Share personal finance information with your spouse before an emergency occurs BY DAN RAFTER

f you died tomorrow, would your spouse know the name of your life insurance agent? Would your spouse know the account numbers of your IRAs? Would your spouse even know at what bank you keep your safe deposit box? Unfortunately, many couples talk little about personal finances. This can cause trouble if the spouse who handles most of the household finances should suddenly pass away. “It’s imperative that both partners in a relationship understand Finance 101,” said Lee Hausner, senior managing director of First Foundation Advisors in Irvine, Calif. Craig Silverman, a retirement planning specialist with AXA Advisors in Melville, N.Y., has

created a 50-page booklet called the Family Love Letter. On each page, spouses can write down everything from their bank account numbers to the names and contact information of their life insurance agents and accountants to the contact information of the administrator who oversees the spouse’s 401(k) plan. Silverman recommends that people fill this letter out long before they begin suffering health problems, and that they update it as their financial situations change and they open or close new IRAs and other accounts. “You don’t leave your family with chaos in what will be a difficult time,” Silverman said. Here are five things you need to tell your spouse about the household finances.

Know your options. Part A is hospital insurance only, covering in-patient, rehabilitation, long-term, hospice and home health care. Part B covers 80 percent of doctor services, outpatient care and some preventative services. Part C allows you to go through a private company for care covered under A and B. Part D is prescription drug coverage, which you secure through a private company. You can’t get Medicare prescription assistance without signing up for A and B.

Know when to sign up. You’re automatically enrolled in parts A and B

the day you turn 65, as long as you’re receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. You don’t pay for Part A, but Part B is $110.50 a month. If you don’t receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits but want Medicare, you’ll pay $461 a month for Part A and $110.50 for Part B. Know how you’ll get penalized. The biggest hit comes if you don’t sign up for Part B when first eligible. You must wait for the next enrollment period, Jan. 1 to March 31 (this changes in 2011; those who miss enrollment next year can sign up from Oct. 15 to Nov. 7). You’ll pay a 10 percent penalty for every year you don’t participate after becoming eligible. You can get a delay if you’re getting insurance through your employer or your spouse’s, but you must request it. You’ll also be penalized if you don’t sign up for Part D when first eligible and decide later that you want it. Know what’s new. There are a couple of changes in the Medicare plan in 2011. The biggest is, participants won’t pay a deductible or coinsurance for most preventive services and are eligible to receive a free wellness exam. Know where to get help. You can get assistance by calling 800-6334227. To get a new card, change your information, report a death or get information on eligibility, call 800-772-1213. To coordinate Medicare benefits with a private insurance plan, call 800-999-1118. If you’re a veteran, call 800-827-1000. Information’s also available at www.medicare.gov.

Investments and assets Write down the account numbers and contact information for your insurance policies, investment accounts, savings and checking accounts, wills and trusts. Keep this information on a single sheet of paper, and make sure your spouse knows where it is.

Estate planning Tell your spouse who is helping to manage your money and your estate planning. After you die, you want your spouse to be able to find and work closely with this person.

Safe deposit boxes Your spouse should know how many safe deposit boxes you have, what’s in them and where they are. Make sure, too, that your spouse knows who is legally allowed to open your safe deposit boxes.

List of professionals Provide your spouse with the names and contact information of the financial professionals with which you work, including accountants, insurance agents, financial planners and mortgage loan officers.

List of expenses It’s important for your spouse to know exactly where the household money goes each month. Provide a list of your monthly costs, everything from mortgage payments to estimated phone bills to discretionary entertainment spending.

January & February 2011

WORD SEARCH SOLUTION

Puzzle Solutions

etc ...

2 9 8 5 6 3

6 3

Notable quotes by famous people “One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is a vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.” — Carl Jung

“Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind.” — Henry James

March Gloat Imp Pier Ease Single Irate PIGMIES

1/11 Sudoku Solution W Q R W

SUDOKU SOLUTION

1 4 6 5 8 2 3 7 9

9 2 5 7 4 3 6 1 8

7 8 3 9 6 1 4 2 5

2 5 8 3 1 4 7 9 6

6 1 4 8 7 9 2 5 3

3 7 9 2 5 6 1 8 4

8 3 7 4 2 5 9 6 1

4 6 2 1 9 8 5 3 7

5 9 1 6 3 7 8 4 2

When You’re For a