July 2014 by Minnesota Good Age

JULY 2014

HOSPICE MYTHS BUSTED Page 32

SEVEN STEPS TO DOWNSIZING Page 22

Finding financial

freedom Page 20

Embrace the Future

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CONTENTS

JULY 2014 VOLUME 33 / ISSUE 7 PUBLISHERS Janis Hall jhall@mngoodage.com Terry Gahan tgahan@mngoodage.com GENERAL MANAGER Chris Damlo 612-436-4376 cdamlo@mngoodage.com

EDITOR Sarah Dorison 612-436-4385 sdorison@mngoodage.com

HOSPICE MYTHS BUSTED You might be suprised to learn what this caregiving program offers.

FALLING WATER Now’s the time to plan a summer trip to one of Minnesota’s prettiest waterfalls.

FROM THE EDITOR 8 Happy, healthy summer to you!

MEMORIES 12 Amazing Aganetha Stoesz

MY TURN 10 Gratitude, grit, gumption

THIS MONTH IN MN HISTORY 13 St. Paul’s first schoolteacher

GOOD HEALTH

GOOD LIVING

HOUSE CALL 16 Cholesterol guidelines focus on risk HEALTH NEWS 18 Minnesota boasts healthiest seniors

CAN’T MISS CALENDAR 3636

JULY 2014

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dana Croatt dcroatt@mngoodage.com SALES ADMINISTRATOR Kate Manson 612-436-5085 kmanson@mngoodage.com

GOOD START

ASK THE PHARMACIST 14 Drug side effects can be deadly

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Suzy Cohen Carol Hall Skip Johnson Mr. Modem Emily Mongan Dave Nimmer Bob Ramsey Dr. Michael Spilane

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Valerie Moe Amanda Wadeson PAGE DESIGNER Kylie Beran CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 distribution@mngoodage.com

FINANCE 20 Finding financial freedom HOUSING 22 Seven steps to downsizing TECHNOLOGY 24 Transfer photos to your computer

Minnesota Good Age (ISSN 2333-3197) is published monthly by Minnesota Premier Publications.

IN THE KITCHEN 26 Grilled asparagus salad

BRAIN TEASERS

50,000 copies of Minnesota Good Age are distributed to homes and businesses metro-wide.

FROM THE EDITOR ////// SARAH DORISON

HEALTHY, HAPPY SUMMER T

his month’s issue of Minnesota Good Age really has something for everyone. Because it’s July, we just had to give you yet another excuse to get out and enjoy Minnesota’s warm summer. This month we’re highlighting five of the best and brightest waterfalls across Minnesota. They’re gorgeous this time of year and they’re not so remote that you have to hike into the backcountry to see them — though exploring further is always an option. After all, we know you like to get out. How do we know that? Minnesota’s seniors — according to a recent report featured in our health section — have been proclaimed the healthiest in the nation with more thriving seniors than any other state. That’s good news for Minnesota, which was named the winner last year as well. And it’s not just about receiving excellent health care, according to Minnesota Health Commissioner Ed Ehlinger: “Seniors also enjoy health benefits from living in walkable neighborhoods, having access to nutritious food and having opportunities to participate in their communities.” Amen to that! Minnesota also has some awesome people, including legions of wonderful women who have made the state what it is today. I was particularly touched by Carol Hall’s Memories column this month. Her story of a beloved family friend in southwestern Minnesota — when paired with a story about St. Paul’s very first schoolteacher — made me state-proud and grateful. (Speaking of gratitude, columnist Dave Nimmer has some fresh ideas on that topic as well!) We’ve also put together a rich collection of articles to help you make plans for the future, whether you’re seeking financial independence, downsizing your home or even making tough decisions about end of life care for a loved one. Writer Bob Ramsey tackled the topic of hospice care for this issue and I learned a lot about what hospice is — and isn’t. (Side note: If you’re looking for a volunteer calling, I highly recommend his story for inspiration.) Finally, I want to introduce a brand-new contributor to Good Age. I’m thrilled to report that longtime local chef Vincent Francoual will be crafting original recipes for our In The Kitchen department! Many of you probably know of the Twin Cities’ most beloved Frenchman: Since 2001, Vincent has been the owner of the award-winning eatery Vincent, A Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis. Welcome aboard, Vincent! And thank you, readers, for picking up this issue. Happy summer!

Sarah Dorison, Editor JULY 2014

MY TURN ////// DAVE NIMMER

GROWING OLD, BUT MORE GRATEFUL, TOO I

n a month or so the fall political campaigns will begin to heat up and a lot of fuel for the fire will be Obamacare and whether or not it controls health care costs or adds another bureaucratic layer to the ever-growing expenses. I’m not sure of the outcome, although I believe the Affordable Care Act is at least a good-faith effort to gain control. What I am sure about is I’m part of the 5 percent of the population (mainly seniors) that accounts for about half of the annual health care expenses. I want young folks to know I’m thankful for their contributions. And I’m doing my part to take care of these old bones — and spending some of my own money to do it. No, kids, we old-timers aren’t lying around asking you to foot the bills from head to toe.

JULY 2014

That tooth implant I had a month ago was mostly paid for out of my own pocket. I could have left the hole on my mouth, but I’d look like a refugee from a bar fight. Now, I may not have a million-dollar smile, but I do have a $4,000 grin. The cataract surgery I had recently cost the taxpayers a pretty penny. But I want ‘em to know I shelled out about $1,000 for a special lens, not covered by Medicare or insurance. And when I fell this winter and bruised my shoulder, I didn’t get an expensive MRI. I went to a physical therapist, paid part of the bill myself and spent the next six months doing exercises — stretching, lifting, pulling and bending. The shoulder’s not perfect, but I can rakes leaves and cast a lure. Who could ask for more? As a matter of fact, I couldn’t be more grateful for the care I received, the doctors I had and the results I got. Sometimes I think I’ve been concentrating too much on the hassles of growing older rather than on my history of getting better. I’m a survivor of prostate cancer, adult-onset diabetes and macular degeneration in my right eye. That condition caused my father to lose his ability to read a newspaper, drive a car and recognize an old friend. But these days, my sight has been preserved with a drug — injected into the eye every six or seven weeks — and a delicate surgical procedure to relieve the growing pressure that the injections may have caused.

Whoever it was … was right. This part of the journey takes a little grit and gumption – and gratitude.

(I’ve learned: One of the realities of senior-citizen status is that all the cures generally come with side effects.) The ophthalmologist/surgeon dealt with the glaucoma by performing a trabeculectomy (a what?) to relieve the pressure. After putting in a new lens to take care of the cataract, Dr. Richard Stanek stitched a small pocket in the eye itself to allow for drainage of the aqueous humor. If I’m lucky, I’ll keep on getting the shots for macular degeneration without the growing pressure that can damage the optic nerve. When I think about it, this is all kind of miraculous — gifts to us old farts that weren’t available to our parents. And after the eye surgery, Dr. Stanek called me at 8:30 in the evening to ask how I was feeling. I didn’t even get that kind of treatment when doctors made house calls. I must keep these things in mind as I age and get nicked with paper cuts. Growing old is not for sissies. I’ve heard the quote attributed to more than a few seniors, most memorable among them Paul Newman. Actually, according to my research, actress Bette Davis is the original author. Whoever it was … was right. This part of the journey takes a little grit and gumption — and gratitude. As for me, I’ll try to show mine by planning a hike with Don Shelby across the Grand Canyon in the next couple of years, from the north rim to the south. I won’t be carrying a backpack as I once thought I would. But I’ll be walking down and up — not riding a mule. Dave Nimmer has had a long career as a reporter, editor and professor. Now retired, he has no business card, but plenty to do. Health Partners GA 0514 2-3page.indd 1

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MEMORIES ////// CAROL HALL

MINNESOTA WOMAN LIVED SELFLESSLY E

ven though the funeral took place in 1961, I remember it well. It was a sweltering day in July. Perspiration streamed from the pallbearers’ brows as they slowly, painstakingly, carried the dead woman’s casket down the steps of the country church — eight pallbearers. It was guessed that Aganetha Stoesz weighed 300 pounds. Fearing that six might not be able to manage, the funeral director nodded to his assistant and both men gave a hand. As we mourners began our slow walk behind them, I spotted Aganetha’s teenage nephew Jim, who was one of the eight. Death had come suddenly, unexpectedly. And now Jim, who’d dubbed her “Natie” when he was a little boy, was helping carry Auntie Aganetha to her grave. It shouldn’t have ended this way. Saints like “Natie” deserved more than 50 years of life. She was a selfless woman, who had been devoted to her church, faithfully serving the Mennonite Ladies Mission Circle, the choir and the Sunday school. Her family came next. Aganetha was the fourth of eight children of Russian-German immigrant farmers who’d settled in the rich farmland of southwestern Minnesota in the 1860s. True to her Christian principles, she helped any of them in need. And Aganetha adored children. With no children of her own, she embraced all of her nephews and nieces, including Jim and his younger brother Brad. A large, ungainly woman, the children felt secure with her, and returned her love. A pastry chef at the local cafe, Aganetha was famous for her German pfeffernusse cookies and Zweiback rolls, recipes handed down from her mother. She also was a “Tupperware lady,” staging home parties for local house-

JULY 2014

Juggling her two jobs, she made time to care for the boys during summer vacation from school — help that Adeline desperately needed.

wives, demonstrating the plastic food storage containers. As we neared the Stoesz family plot, a familiar image came to mind: Aganetha tooling down a gravel road in her 1945 Plymouth sedan, heading to a farmhouse to conduct a Tupperware party for a group of ladies, who were eager to examine the product and hear its famous “belch!” I’d known Aganetha since 1943 when her brother, Diedrich, married my eldest sister, Adeline. My Lutheran mother was furious. How could Adeline even think of dating a Mennonite, much less marry him — a conscientious objector — during wartime? A rift developed between the two of them. But then, five years later, Diedrich, like Aganetha, died unexpectedly, and very young, in his 30s. Jim and Brad were Adeline and Diedrich’s children. Left alone, Adeline took on a full-time job and struggled to support them. Aganetha stepped in. Juggling her two jobs, she made time to care for the boys during summer vacation from school — help that Adeline desperately needed. It was Aganetha’s kindness to Adeline during those difficult years that made my mother think twice about Mennonites. It started the healing process that eventually ended their rift. When the casket bearers finally placed their heavy load upon the open grave, I uttered a silent, “Thank you, Aganetha, for saving our family. … Thank you, and goodbye.” Carol Hall lives in Woodbury. She’s a longtime freelance writer, a Universwity of Minnesota graduate and a former Northwest Airlines stewardess. Send comments and questions to editor@mngoodage.com.

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July often brings thoughts of trips to the lake, but in 1847 Harriet Bishop had school on her mind. Bishop arrived in St. Paul on July 16, 1847. Three days later, she opened her school and became the city’s first public school teacher. Documenting her experience in a book called “Floral Home,” Bishop remarked of the new school — set Harriet Bishop, oil up in a former on canvas, 1880 blacksmith shop — that it was a “mud-walled log hovel.” But she also recalled confidently, “I was more needed here than at any other spot on earth.” Bishop’s first class numbered nine. But just two years later in 1849, she had enough students for a second teacher, Mary Scofield, and the school moved into a frame building near St. Paul’s lower landing. In 1850, St. Paul opened its first district school and Bishop left to create a female seminary where she could prepare women to become teachers. Throughout her life in St. Paul, Bishop worked to establish many charitable societies, supported temperance and woman suffrage, and became a founding member of the Minnesota Historical Society. — Minnesota Historical Society

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JULY 2014

ASK THE PHARMACIST ////// SUZY COHEN

Drug side eﬀects can be deadly T

his month’s column was inspired by a fan I met at a book signing. He hugged me with gratitude for saving his life with a column I wrote warning people about a side effect and what to do about it. He changed his medicine — and his doctor — and he thrives today. He made me promise to write another outspoken column with current tips and warnings, so Chris, this one’s for you and any others who may benefit from this piece.

ANTIBIOTICS

A few popular antibiotics damage DNA in a way similar to that of chemotherapy agents. If you’re sensitive to them, you could pay a neurological price that causes sudden and serious neuropathy or even some degree of brain damage. The drugs that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration is concerned about belong to the fluoroquinolone class, and already have a black box warning for increasing the risk of tendon ruptures. (A black box warning — also known as a “boxed warning” for the black border used to display the warning — appears on the label of medications to alert consumers about serious safety concerns, such as side effects or risks, as determined by the FDA.) More reports have come in regarding neurological damage. I would use these only for life-threatening infections that were unresponsive to older, regular antibiotics. I wouldn’t take them if I had a regular old urinary tract or sinus infection.

JULY 2014

ACID-BLOCKING DRUGS

These so-called proton pump inhibitors sold over the counter and by prescription are such strong drug muggers of magnesium that they can cause fatal heart arrhythmias over time. Even the FDA agrees and issued a black box warning regarding this issue. Magnesium deficiency causes muscle pain, too. If you take this class of acid suppressors on a daily basis, I highly recommend you supplement with a high-quality magnesium formula to minimize your risks. The supplement is taken 4 to 6 hours away from the drug. (Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement or drug.) Mineral deficiencies from these types of drugs can weaken your bones. Long-term or chronic daily use has been linked to increased fractures of the spine, hip and wrists. THYROID MEDICATION

Drugs that are known generically as levothyroxine don’t work until your body activates them. Some people do that easily, but some don’t and need supportive minerals and vitamins, or another drug. Speaking of thyroid, I should also tell you that conventional thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) blood tests are incapable of detecting thyroid disease until you’re very sick. Better tests include Free T3, Reverse T3, a test of the ratio of thyroid hormones, as well as a complete antibody panel.

PAIN RELIEVERS, AUTOIMMUNE DRUGS

If you live in chronic pain of any sort, or take autoimmune disease drugs, then you should be tested for Lyme disease. Minnesotans, especially those who spend time in the northern portion of the state, should be on alert. In 2012, 95 percent of Lyme disease cases came from 13 states — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Virginia. This deer tick-borne infection causes a spinning dial of symptoms that confuses the best practitioners. You may be misdiagnosed with lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia or others. Testing is key to uncovering this infection, which mimics about 300 other diseases. If you test positive, you’ll need antibiotics. I’m passionate about this because my husband was misdiagnosed by multiple doctors, who didn’t know how to spot the disease. Learn more about the ticks that carry Lyme disease at tinyurl.com/lymediseasebasics. Suzy Cohen has been a licensed pharmacist for almost 25 years. Send questions to info@pharmacist.com.

A Great Smile Says It All

GILDA’S CLUB OPENS IN MINNETONKA Cancer patients and their loved ones have a new place to turn for emotional support: Gilda’s Club Twin Cities, a nonprofit cancer-support community clubhouse in Minnetonka.

“Over 28,000 people are affected by cancer every year in Minnesota,” said executive director Michelle Silverman. “With the opening of our first Gilda’s Club, none of them has to face this disease alone. Men, women, teens, children, their families and friends — all are welcome to become members of Gilda’s Club Twin Cities.” Membership in Gilda’s Club, which opened in April, is free to anyone, as is its array of support services. Gilda’s Club is a national organization started by the family and friends of Gilda Radner, the Saturday Night Live comedian who died of ovarian cancer in 1989. The concept of clubhouses — each of which welcomes visitors through a red door — was inspired by Radner’s commentary on her disease: “Cancer gave me membership into an elite club I would rather not belong to.” The Gilda’s Club clubhouse — at 10560 Wayzata Blvd. — is designed to be a nonclinical, healing environment. Call 612-227-2147 or go to gildasclubtwincities.org for more information.

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HOUSE CALL ////// DR. MICHAEL SPILANE

Cholesterol guidelines focus more on risk N

ew guidelines for the treatment of cholesterol, published in November 2013, represent one of the most important recent happenings in medical science. They’re important because arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 1 in 3 people dying from heart disease and stroke. Most ASCVD can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle and the treatment of cholesterol. Created by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, the new guidelines are based on a rigorous systematic analysis of all pertinent published clinical research studies. Final recommendations were made by a large panel of expert medical scientists and clinicians. Hundreds of thousands of treating physicians and many millions of their patients will be affected by the new guidelines, which recommend use of a statin medication such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), pravastatin (Pravachol) and rosuvastatin (Crestor) instead of other types of mediation used to lower cholesterol. Treatment with a statin medication is advised for the following people: • Individuals with a personal history of coronary artery disease, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA) or peripheral vascular disease • Individuals with LDL cholesterol level greater than 189 • Individuals ages 40 to 75 with a personal history of diabetes • Individuals ages 40 to 75 with a 7.5 percent or higher estimated 10-year risk of having an ASCVD event such as heart attack, angina or stroke

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The new guidelines include several recommendations that stand out from previous guidelines: The use of statin medication for individuals with a 7.5 percent or higher 10-year risk of having an ASCVD event means that many more millions of Americans will be advised to use a statin. Factors used in the risk calculation include age, sex, blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels and history of smoking. Because of the weight given to age in the risk calculation, much of the additional use of statin medication is likely to come from the older population. While previous guidelines recommended use of blood cholesterol levels to guide decisions about the use of cholesterol-lowering medication, the new guidelines recommend the use of riskestimation to inform decision-making. In essence, the focus is less on a specific number and more on treatment that’s evidence-based and has been shown to reduce ASCVD events. Since the goal is no longer to “treat to a number,” regular follow-up measurements of cholesterol for those patients using a statin are less important than physician assessment of patient adherence to a healthy lifestyle and patient compliance with use of the prescribed statin medication. The expert panel making the final treatment recommendations felt there was insufficient

LEARN MORE American College of Cardiology tinyurl.com/cholesterolprevention American Heart Association CV Risk Calculator tinyurl.com/cholesterolriskcalculator Annals of Internal Medicine tinyurl.com/cholesterolguidelines

evidence of benefit to recommend use of a statin medication for those over age 75, except for those with a personal history of ASCVD and for those with LDL cholesterol level over 189. After age 75, comorbidities, patient preferences and safety considerations play a larger role in the decision to initiate statin therapy. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s considerable controversy about the new cholesterol guidelines, most of it coming from physicians who believe that using a 7.5 percent estimated 10-year risk of having an ASCVD event means that a statin medication will be recommended for too many individuals. Dissenters would like to see the percentage figure moved to 10, or even higher. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to recognize that any professional clinical guideline is intended to guide decision-making and not to dictate it. A decision to use or not use a stain medication must be individualized, with consideration of many factors. A physician can inform and advise, but the final decision is up to the patient. Dr. Michael Spilane, now retired, spent more than four decades practicing and teaching geriatric medicine in St. Paul.

Minnesota boasts healthiest seniors, again M

innesota is often skewered as one of the worst states in the country in terms of high tax rates, especially for retirees. But it’s not all doom and gloom for seniors in the North Star State. Minnesota boasts the healthiest senior population in the country in terms of overall health, according to the 2014 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report issued this week by the United Health Foundation. This is the second year UHF has prepared the report, and the second year Minnesota has been rated No. 1. The report analyzes seniors’ health

on a national and state-by-state basis across 34 measures. It draws on data from more than a dozen government agencies and research organizations, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Labor. The report and accompanying materials are available at americashealthrankings.org. Minnesota Health Commissioner Ed Ehlinger said the state’s top ranking reflects the contributions of many people across a wide range of fields. “Our strong performance in senior health shows the benefit of taking a broad view of health,” Ehlinger said. “You need quality medical care of course, but there’s more to health than what happens at the doctor’s office. Seniors also enjoy health benefits from living in walkable neighborhoods, having access to nutritious food and having opportunities to participate in their communities.” The UHF report listed several highlights for Minnesota in the past year: • Highest percentage of able-bodied seniors, 68.2 percent; • Highest percentage of seniors with prescription drug coverage, 89.6 percent; • Nation’s lowest prevalence of seniors with cognitive difficulties, 6.6 percent • Second-lowest percentage of seniors facing food insecurity, 8.6 percent; • Fourth-lowest number (1,585) of premature deaths per 100,000 people;

U OF M EXERCISE STUDY FOCUSES ON SENIORS WITH ALZHEIMER’S University of Minnesota Associate Professor Fang Yu will lead a study investigating the effects of a six-month aerobic exercise program on the cognition of participants with Alzheimer’s disease. Yu and her colleagues will work with 90

JULY 2014

participants age 66 and older with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease in the research program over five years. Each participant will be evaluated for memory, brain function and physical ability. Brain scans will be conducted at various intervals using

a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techology. Study participants will be supported with transportation, health and fitness monitoring and exercise supervision to ensure the study’s integrity and participant safety.

• Second-highest rate of volunteerism among adults age 65 and older, 39.3 percent. However, the report also cited areas of concern:

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• Obesity among Minnesota seniors increased from 23.7 percent in 2013 to 26.3 percent in 2014; • Health disparities persist, as demonstrated by the fact that 59.2 percent of Minnesota seniors with a college education reported excellent or very good health, while only 25.2 percent of seniors with less than a high school education reported excellent or very good health; • Minnesota ranked 37th in community support for impoverished seniors (dollars per adultMississippi Market GA 0714 V6.indd age 65 or older in poverty).

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The United Health Foundation — established in 1999 by UnitedHealth Group, a Minnetonka-based managed care company — is a not-for-profit private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. Source: Minnesota Department of Health

The project is unique in its rigorous oversight components and its measuring of both immediate and long-term impact. For more information on the study, including how to participate, call Yu at 612-624-5435.

JULY 2014

FINANCE ////// SKIP JOHNSON

Just as there are different ways of deﬁning ﬁnancial independence, there are different ways of getting there.

Finding ﬁnancial freedom A

trip to see four of our greatest presidents on Mount Rushmore: Several hundred dollars. A trip to Normandy in France to see where many of our greatest generation gave their all: Several thousand dollars. Having the financial independence to do either, or both: Priceless. “Financial independence” means different things to different people. To some, it means never working again and having more money than you can ever spend. For others, it means earning income in a way that means you aren’t living paycheck to paycheck. Just as there are different ways of defining financial independence, there are different ways of getting there, and no two people will take the same path. Temptation lurks at every restaurant and coffee shop — and I’m not talking calories. In a recent survey by the staffing firm Accounting Principals, 82 percent of respondents said they spend more than $21 on coffee on average each week. Eighty-nine percent spend more than $36

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on lunch on average per week. Making a sandwich at home can save you about $24 a week — and that adds up to more than $1,200 a year! You should also take a good look at your cable bill or your cell phone bill: Are you really using all those minutes and watching all those channels? There may be an opportunity to save. Debt is obviously a big challenge. Not all debt is a bad thing — like a mortgages or even student loans — as long as it’s manageable. But spending money you don’t have on things you don’t need can get you in trouble fast. The average consumer has nearly $5,000 in credit card debt, according to a report by the credit-reporting agency TransUnion. Avoid the temptation to overspend by putting away the plastic. If you carry only cash, it’s impossible to spend more than you have. Building up savings is another big challenge keeping many Americans from financial freedom. Thirty percent of workers who participated in

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a survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute said they have less than $1,000 saved. It’s never too late to start. If you’re still working, one of the best ways to put money away is to set it up automatically. Whether it’s an employer 401(k) plan, or a savings account, direct a chunk of your paycheck to go directly to savings. That way you don’t ever see it and you’re not tempted to spend it. If you’re committed to becoming financially independent, it’s hands-off your savings. This is another thing Americans are having a hard time doing. A staggering 28 percent of American workers have prematurely pulled from their 401(k) accounts, according to Accounting Principals. They’re tapping into their savings to cover expenses like health care (25 percent), home or car repair (27 percent) and unemployment (22 percent). But what’s more surprising is how many are taking money out for leisure expenses. Sixteen percent of working Americans say they’ve used 401(k) funds for remodeling, buying a second home, buying a boat or going on vacation. I work with my clients to achieve independence starting with solid plans, goals and check-ins. If you are reading this and doubt that you’ll ever get there, don’t worry: It can be done. I’ve seen people live and retire in financial freedom. I may be biased, given what I do, but I can’t think of a better way to celebrate this Independence Day than by achieving the American dream. Skip Johnson is a partner at Great Waters Financial in New Hope, Minn. Learn more at mygreatwaters.com.

Prairie Oaks Memorial Eco Gardens Minnesota’s first “green” cemetery

Natural burial... an option. A GREENER WAY TO GO From preparing bodies to burying them in natural settings, the green burial movement is attempting to make death more environmentally friendly and, in some ways, closer to the way it was in the past.

A Comparison

STANDARD BURIAL Burials use formaldehyde embalming and longlasting caskets. They can easily cost $10,000. A standard grave site, often landscaped and well-maintained, features a large headstone made of granite or flat bronze. Fertilizer and pesticides are used on the grass.

NATURAL BURIAL A green grave site is a natural setting, more closely resembling a forest floor.

3 ft. 4 ft. 3.5 ft. 5 ft.

Below ground, a casket made of steel, finished wood and copper rests inside a concrete vault capped by a thick concrete lid.

GREEN GRAVES DELIVER MORE VALUE Prairie Oaks offers you · A less expensive burial option · A way to become a part of the land preservation · A spiritually rewarding experience for your family members

The natural, or green, burial method starts with the body preparation, which uses no embalming fluid or a nonformaldehyde-based formula. Green burials can cost less than $2,000. If there’s a headstone, it’s a rock or a piece of rough-cut limestone that’s flat on one side to easily identify the deceased. Some methods use GPS coordinates to spot a grave’s location. Caskets are made of wood, plywood, bamboo, cardboard, cornstarch or wicker. Sometimes a shroud or quilt may be used to wrap the body.

651-300-9549 · MNGreenGraves.com “Located” in Inver Grove Heights — on Argenta Trail between Hwy #55 and Hwy #149

HOUSING ////// MANI CANADAY

Seven steps to downsizing M

aking the decision to downsize your home is a big one. It can feel stressful and overwhelming, but there are many benefits to making the transition to a smaller home. Financially, a smaller home can save you a bundle on upkeep and utilities. It also makes sense from a timesaving point of view, because the smaller your square footage, the simpler it is to keep your home clean and in excellent repair. If the time is right for you to downsize, there are several steps you can take to make the transition as smooth and seamless as possible. With these seven simple steps, you can make your move to a smaller home as stress-free as possible. GET RID OF OTHER PEOPLE’S STUFF

If your home’s been serving as a storage unit for other people’s things, now’s the time for them to find another home for their belongings. If your grown children’s bedrooms have remained untouched since your kids were living at home, let them know that if they want anything in the rooms, they’re welcome to come pick things up. Give everyone a solid pickup deadline.

HOLD A GARAGE SALE

Next, do a room-by-room assessment of your belongings. Gather everything you no longer find either beautiful or useful and start pricing the items for a garage sale. You’ll feel good knowing that you’ve allowed other people, perhaps those who can’t afford new things, to enjoy the things you no longer need. It’s also a great way to make extra money to put toward your big move. USE CRAIGSLIST

List large or valuable items, like furniture, jewelry and collectibles on Craigslist.com. You’ll typically make more money per item on big-ticket items than you will at a garage sale, but it also takes more work, so be selective. GIVE IT TO CHARITY

After your garage sale, give whatever remains to charity. Some thrift stores will even pick up your items, saving you the trouble of transporting them. TOSS IT

While one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, some things actually belong in the dumpster. Don’t waste your time trying to sell items that are worn or broken beyond usefulness, just throw them out. Now’s also a good time to go through boxes of old paperwork, magazines you’re never going to re-read and any odds and ends filling your junk drawers, basement or attic. JUST SAY NO TO STORAGE

Resist the temptation to store everything you’re not moving to your new home. Storage units are expensive, and within several months, you’ll have spent as much as it would cost you to replace the things you’re storing with new items. How often would you actually see the items you’re storing? Are you going to make weekly or monthly trips to your storage unit to visit your belongings? JULY 2014

Probably not. It helps to ask yourself: “If this item doesn’t mean enough to me to have it in my new home, why would I pay to keep it?” ASSESS YOUR NEXT SPACE

When you’re searching for your new, downsized home, be realistic about the amount of space you need or want. If you’re already living in a fairly small house, and you’re a minimalist, moving into a studio apartment or tiny one bedroom home might make perfect sense. However, if you currently live in a 3,500-square-foot home and can’t bear to part with more than 80 percent of your belongings, you’d be miserable in such a tiny dwelling. It would make more sense for you to downsize into a 1,500-squarefoot home, which is considerably smaller, but would still allow you to feel like you could keep most of the things that truly matter to you. When deciding on the number of bedrooms you need, consider how often you have overnight guests, and whether it’s important to you to have an office or craft room. The whole point of downsizing is to make your life easier, so keep that perspective as you’re going through the process. Taking care of things that no longer serve you is a drain on your time, energy and resources. Define your downsizing goals — and the type of lifestyle you desire — on paper. When you start to feel burdened by the process, glance at your notes, and you’ll be reminded that what you’re moving toward will be more rewarding than what you’re leaving behind. Mani Canaday is a freelance writer and a regular contributor to Minnesota Good Age and Minnesota Parent magazines.

JULY 2014

TECHNOLOGY ////// MR. MODEM

transfer phone photos / junkware / remove auto-complete addresses Can you recommend a simple program to move pictures from my Android phone to my Windows 7 computer?

Q&A

You really don’t need a program or an app to do that. Instead, follow these steps and you should be all set: • Connect your smartphone to your computer using the USB sync cable that came with your phone (or you can buy one at any Radio Shack). • A USB icon will appear in the

Notification area on your phone. Drag the Notifications bar down, then tap it. • Next, tap USB Connected > Mount. • On your computer, click Start > Computer or My Computer. The micro-SD card in your phone will be recognized and listed as a Removable Disk. Double-click its icon to open it. Double-click the DCIM folder > DCIM > Camera. From this location, you can copy all pictures and videos taken with your Android phone to any folder on your computer. • To disconnect the Android phone, go to the Notifications area and tap the USB sign to disconnect. That’s all there is to it — no app required! When I send a new email and click ‘To:’ a list of previous addresses appears. How can I remove individual, unwanted addresses from the list? I’m using Outlook 2007.

Start typing the name or address you want to remove when composing a new message. Then use the down arrow key to highlight the undesirable entry and press Delete.

JULY 2014

I’m tempted to try out a free junkware removal tool I received an email about. What’s your take on these types of programs?

There’s nothing inherently wrong with programs of this type, but I don’t use them. Unless a system is experiencing a problem I’m attempting to resolve, what’s the point? I’m very much an advocate of the old “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy. In other words, if everything’s working well, you’re not going to make your systems run any better by throwing more software at them. Every additional piece of software carries the risk of potential conflicts, not to mention the underlying concept of “free.” With any free program, it seems there’s always an unexpected price to be paid. I’d also steer clear of any offer that appears out of the blue or what I like to call “spam.” When it comes to unsolicited programs, just remember the old axiom, “Beware of geeks bearing gifts.” I have 11 systems running all versions of Windows, Mac and Linux and they run happy as clams — if clams are truly happy — and never give me any problems. Richard A. Sherman, a nationally syndicated columnist, ﬁrst ventured onto the Internet in 1988. Learn more at mrmodem.net.

WORTHY WEBSITES TWINKIES FACTS The Twinkie — long recognized as the cornerstone of any wellbalanced diet — was created in 1930 by James Dewar, a plant manager at the Continental Baking Company. Despite being absent from stores between December 2011 and July 2013 due to a bankruptcy filing at Hostess Brands, Twinkies today remain a hugely popular treat with more than 500 million produced every year. Urban legends suggest that the shelf life of a Twinkie is measured in decades, but the actual shelf life is 25 days per Twink. Before he departed for the Big Cupcake in the Sky at age 88, Mr. Dewar said that the secret to his long life was to “eat Twinkies every day and smoke a pack of cigarettes.” What, no bourbon? tinyurl.com/twinkiefacts

PUBLIC ART ARCHIVE This fascinating site houses thousands of public art images in a single database, making these works easily accessible to all audiences. U.S. and Canadian artworks are featured and are searchable by artist, collection, material, title, location and year. Once you find a place or artist or collection you’d like to view, click the image to be whisked away to a page with additional information about the artwork, plus more images and a map of the area. publicartarchive.org

IN THE KITCHEN

Photo Courtesy of Derek Gorney

BY CHEF VINCENT FRANCOUAL

Grilled asparagus salad 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound) 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup small mozzarella balls, halved lengthwise 2 cups pea shoots, arugula or baby spinach Vinaigrette (recipe included), to taste Extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Serves 4

Preheat an outdoor grill to medium and preheat an oven to 375 degrees. Toss tomatoes in a baking dish with a drizzle of oil, salt and pepper. Bake them at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes. Side aside to cool. Rub the asparagus with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5 minutes or until well-marked, turning occasionally.* Combine the cooled tomatoes and mozzarella balls and marinate with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the vinaigrette. Add the pea shoots, arugula or spinach to the tomato-mozzarella mixture and toss with 2 or 3 more tablespoons of the vinaigrette. Place 4 or 5 warm asparagus spears in the center of each plate and top with 1/4 of the salad mixture.

JULY 2014

* Variation: The asparagus and tomatoes can be roasted at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes if a grill is not available or if you want to simplify the recipe.

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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon water 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

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Chef Vincent Francoual has been the chef/owner of Vincent, A Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis since its inception in 2001. In 2013, he and Brenda Maurseth welcomed a daughter to the family — their “petite fromage,” Chloe Neige. Francoual is enjoying his adventures in fatherhood and is quite sure Chloe will follow in his culinary footsteps. Public Housing Agency GA 0513 H4.indd 1

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JULY 2014

CASCADE ESCAPES

TRAVEL

B Y E M I LY M O N G A N

innesota may be known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but the North Star State is also home to several stunning waterfalls that are roaring right now. And what better way to celebrate a hot summer than in the cooling mists of rushing fresh water? We’ve chosen five destinations geared toward a variety of outdoor activity levels, including waterfalls that come into view after just a short stroll as well as vistas that emerge after a mile or two of hiking. Some are near the Twin Cities, and some are far. But we think all of these picturesque places are worth a trip.

MINNEOPA FALLS Where: Minneopa State Park, 6 miles west of Mankato Minneopa translates roughly from the Dakota language to mean “water falling twice,” a nod to Minneopa Creek’s double waterfalls outside Mankato, about 90 miles from the Twin Cities. You can walk along the creek to the gorge at the bottom of the second waterfall, or view the action from a bridge between the first and second drops. This park is broken into two parts: Waterfalls cascade in the southern portion of the park near a parking lot, picnic areas and the park’s office, where GPS units, birding and fishing supplies, sports equipment and activity kits for kids are available for rent. In the northern section of the park, which can be reached by a quick drive, you’ll find campgrounds, hiking trails and the historic Seppman Mill, a German-style stone windmill dating back to the 1860s. Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us or 507-389-5464

JULY 2014

GOOSEBERRY FALLS Where: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, 40 miles northeast of Duluth Why: This beloved state park on the shores of Lake Superior contains four separate waterfalls — Upper, Middle (pictured) and Lower Gooseberry falls, all located near the park’s visitor center on Highway 61, plus a more secluded Fifth Falls about a mile up the river. You can wade through the falls in warmer months, or view the falls from above on a catwalk bridge. This state park also offers selfguided nature walks, hiking and biking trails, campsites and historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Be sure to pack a lunch and visit the park’s ancient lava flow, aptly named Picnic Flow, where you can explore the rock formations and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior while you eat. It’s been quite a spring for the Gooseberry River near Two Harbors, Minn. Watch a video of the April 11 “ice out” captured at the river’s Middle Falls by the Duluth News Tribune. Large chunks of ice, logs and other debris came over the falls quickly in a flurry of activity caught on film. See tinyurl.com/gooseberryiceout. Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us or 218-834-3855

THE HIGH FALLS OF THE BAPTISM RIVER Where: Tettegouche State Park, Silver Bay, 55 miles northeast of Duluth Why: Tettegouche State Park is home to three waterfalls, including the High Falls, the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota’s state lines, falling more than 60 feet. (It’s second only to the 120-foot High Falls of the Pigeon River at the Ontario boarder in Grand Portage State Park.) The Tettegouche High Falls can be reached by either a 1-mile or 3-mile roundtrip hike from the park’s visitor center, the longer of which winds past the smaller Two Step Falls. For more ambitious hikers, the park offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails with views of lakes, scenic overlooks and the shores of Lake Superior, along with mountain bike and ATV trails. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, bird watching and rock climbing, plus campsites and cabins.

Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us or 218-226-6365 JULY 2014

DEVIL’S KETTLE FALLS Where: Judge C.R. Magney State Park, 20 miles from Grand Marais Why: Something strange is happening in this far-flung state park. Minnesota’s Brule River splits dramatically into two waterfalls — one plunges 50 feet into a pool below and continues downstream, while the other shoots into a large pothole that has stumped geologists for decades: Where does the water go once it disappears into the “Devil’s Kettle?” Some believe the water empties into Lake Superior via an underground river. Others aren’t so sure. Dyes, logs, ping-pong balls and other objects thrown into the kettle have disappeared, never to be seen again, according to legend. Come up with your own theory, and awe at this natural wonder, by visiting the falls for yourself. Hike about a mile — a strenuous one with 200 stairs added to assist you — to view Devil’s Kettle Falls as well as the park’s Upper Falls. The park is home to campgrounds, picnic areas, a self-guided nature walk and nine miles of challenging hiking trails along the Brule. Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us or 218-387-3039

MINNEHAHA FALLS Where: Minnehaha Park, 15 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis Why: Enjoy a sweet slice of nature without ever having to leave the city. This impressive 53-foot waterfall is easily accessible by a short, paved walk from the parking lot at Minnehaha Park. Observe the falls from one of the many viewing areas. Then follow Minnehaha Creek less than half a mile through the park to see where it meets up with the Mississippi River. Minnehaha Park is also home to the seafood cafe Sea Salt Eatery, plus a snack bar, wading pool and dog park. You’ll also find seasonal bike rentals and concerts in the city park bandstand. Learn more: minneapolisparks.org or 612-230-6400 •

JULY 2014

UNDERSTANDING

HOSPICE

Hospice myths: Busted. It’s a program, not a place. It’s not just for cancer patients. BY BOB RAMSEY

JULY 2014

ur youth-centered society often dances around discussions of death and dying. But as our older population grows rapidly, so do questions about end-of-life care, especially hospice care. Hospice is a relatively recent health-care option in the U.S., beginning in 1973 as a destination for cancer patients. But hospice has evolved over the years to become much more — an end-of-life-care option that can meet the needs, values and preferences of many patients.

Unfortunately, for many people who might consider hospice an option — potential patients, adult children caring for their aging parents, caregivers and even some physicians — the choice is clouded by false perceptions, half-truths and erroneous assumptions. MYTHS, MISCONCEPTIONS

Some of the most common myths and misconceptions about hospice include: Hospice is a place. Actually, hospice is a program of optional services. Most hospice care is provided in private homes and assisted living facilities. Since many assisted living centers are short staffed, they usually welcome the help of hospice team members. Hospice is only for cancer patients. Today’s hospice programs are open to all patients diagnosed with a short-term terminal illness. Hospice is for the aged. Eligibility for hospice care is determined by the nature of the diagnosis, not the age of the patient. Hospice patients die almost immediately after admittance. Hospice patients are diagnosed to have a life expectancy of up to six months. Some live well beyond the six-month limit. Some studies have shown that hospice patients outlive other patients who have a similar diagnosis. Nationally, the average stay in hospice is 64 days. After six months, patients are kicked out of hospice. Patients can continue under hospice care as long as their diagnosis remains terminal and they continue to decline. Hospice patients have to sign a DNR order. Some hospice services may require a Do Not Resuscitate order, but most do not. Hospice patients have to give up their doctor. Most hospice programs coordinate and work with primary-care physicians. Hospice is prohibitively expensive. Most hospice patients pay little or no out-of-pocket expense. Such false perceptions have helped distort the public’s understanding of hospice. “But the greatest misunderstanding about

But the greatest misunderstanding about hospice is that it helps people die. Actually, hospice helps people live well until they die. — Nancy Gelle

hospice is that it helps people die,” said Nancy Gelle, who manages the hospice program for Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park. “Actually, hospice helps people live well until they die.” For those who might seriously consider this service for a loved one or for themselves, the question remains: “What exactly is hospice then?” HOSPICE 101

“Everyone deserves to die without pain and with dignity,” said Barbara Larsen, clinical services director for Hospice Advantage of Roseville. That’s the underlying premise of hospice care. Although there are many hospice providers, they all offer the same basic services designed to deliver on the promise of this premise. Services include team visits, companionship, medication management, medical equipment (such as hospital beds, oxygen or wheelchairs), education for caregivers and bereavement support. Several levels of care are now available depending on the needs of the patient, ranging from routine care and respite care (up to five days a month to relieve family caregivers) to continuous care and 24-hour inpatient care. Hospice isn’t designed to prolong life. Its goal is to control pain and symptoms, and provide compassionate care with a focus on patient comfort, not a cure. Hospice is a choice for patients and family members. Medical personnel may suggest it, but it’s never prescribed. Hospice offers an alternative to protracted, and often painful, treatments with no promise of recovery. HOSPICE TODAY

Like all fields of medicine, hospice is constantly evolving. Today’s hospice care — now subject to much more federal regulation — goes far beyond traditional basic services. “The greatest change in hospice care has been more flexibility in finding creative ways to enhance the quality of life and to help patients die well,” Gelle said. This broader vision — which includes more emphasis on the needs of the family as well as the patient — has led to expanded services that

JULY 2014

now often include music, massage, pet therapy, reading aloud to patients, the use of humor and special events tailored to individual patient needs and interests. For many families, it’s impossible to separate death and spirituality. Today’s programs also incorporate a spiritual dimension through the use of chaplains and other spiritual advisors as requested by the patient or family. One of the most compelling reasons many families are now choosing hospice care is that “it treats the anxiety, not just the pain,” Larsen said. WHO GETS HOSPICE?

Not all patients are eligible for hospice. To qualify, patients must be diagnosed by a physician to have a life-limiting illness that would result in a life expectancy of six months or less if it’s allowed to run its natural course. Patients usually receive a medical evaluation after 90 days in the program to determine continued eligibility. Another evaluation occurs after a second 90-day period. After that, patients are evaluated every 60 days to confirm their status as being imminently terminal and in a continuing state of decline. The decision to enter into hospice care is usually reached jointly by the patient (when capable), the family and appropriate physicians. Once a decision to use hospice services is reached, patients and families receive care from many sources. THE HOSPICE TEAM

No one person administers hospice care. Hospice is a team effort. Typical hospice teams include nurses, social workers, home care aides, chaplains, bereavement counselors and other specialists (such as artists, musicians and massage therapists) working in consultation with primary-care doctors and other physicians. Volunteers are critical to effective hospice care. In fact, volunteer help is not only desired; it’s mandated. Medicare rules require that hospice programs include at least 5 percent volunteer help. People volunteer to work in hospice for various reasons. Many are older adults — seniors helping seniors. Though the work can be emotionally draining, many volunteers say the rewards are rich

JULY 2014

We were searching for meaning in our grief. Working in hospice helped us over the hump in the grieving process. — Roland Larson

and profound. “Most volunteers are either family members who had a loved one in hospice and now want to pay back or people looking for meaningful ways to serve the community,” said Gelle. Roland Larson and his wife, Doris, volunteered in the Methodist Hospital hospice program for seven years. “Our 7-year-old grandson had died,” Larson said. “We were searching for meaning in our grief. Working in hospice helped us over the hump in the grieving process.” Hospice programs are constantly seeking additional volunteers. All volunteers receive training and typically work no more than four hours a week during regular business hours. COSTS AND COVERAGE

Even with extensive volunteer help, hospice services are costly. It’s no wonder that adult children considering hospice for a parent worry about the expense. But it may not be the problem they think it is: Hospice services are usually reimbursed 100 percent by Medicare, Medicaid and third-party insurers. Though patients and families can select any hospice care provider, picking from the multiple choices available can be confusing. Most experts suggest seeking out personal references and recommendations from people who have had first-hand experiences with local providers. Since hospice care relies heavily on people, it pays to get to know as many hospice team members as possible before making a decision. A primary consideration is the frequency of contacts with the patient. The standard is one or more daily contacts from multiple team members.

RESOURCES Hospice Advantage Barbara Larsen, clinical services director, Roseville, 651-487-6000, blarsen@hospiceadvantage.com

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Gelle said many patients simply work though their existing health-care connections — and for good reasons. “There is usually an advantage in staying with the patient’s existing health care system, because of familiarity with the patient’s medical history and ready accessibility to medical records,” she said. Once a family has chosen a hospice provider, there’s no requirement that the family stick with that specific provider if they decide later that it isn’t the right fit. Just as patients can switch primary-care doctors, families can change hospice providers. By focusing not just on the physical needs of a patient, but also the emotional needs, hospice providers play an incredibly important role in the lives — and deaths — of their patients. “For most patients and family members, the greatest fear is not fear of dying, but fear of the process of dying,” Gelle said. “Hospice helps people walk through the process and alleviate this fear.” • Bob Ramsey is a lifelong educator, freelance writer and advocate for vital aging. He’s the author of Creating Vital Aging Communities, now in its second printing. He and his wife live in St. Louis Park.

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JULY 2014

JULY CAN’T MISS

CALENDAR JULY 16

Taste & Toast in the Gardens Sample seasonal cuisine from Twin Cities chefs along with local wines and beers, all in the setting of the arboretum’s landscape gardens. All proceeds benefit the Arboretum. When: 6–9 p.m. July 16 Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chanhassen Cost: $75 (general admission at 7 p.m.); $125 (includes pre-party reception at 6 p.m.) Info: 612-625-9875 or arboretum.umn.edu/ toastandtaste

JUNE 30–JULY 6

Military Family Week at the Minnesota Zoo All military personnel, active and retired, receive free admission and half-price admission for their family members as well as discounts on food and retail items throughout the zoo. When: June 30–July 6 Where: Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley Cost: Regular admission fees are $18 for adults and $12 children/seniors. Info: 952-431-9200 or mnzoo.org

JULY 1–19

Northern Lights Music Festival Three weeks of classical music performances, as well as professional opera productions, make this festival a

JULY 2014

destination for classical music lovers. Highlights include Bizet’s Carmen at 7 p.m. July 14 at the Washington Auditorium in Ely. When: July 1–19 Where: Various locations in Minnesota’s Iron Range Cost: Some are concerts FREE; others are ticketed. Info: 218-780-2292 or northernlightsmusic.org

JULY 3

Summer Fete Ring in Independence Day with two entertainment stages, a kids’ carnival area and fireworks at dusk. When: 5–10 p.m. July 3 Where: Normandale Lake Bandshell, Bloomington Cost: FREE; certain activities are ticketed. Info: 952-563-8877 or bloomington.gov

JULY 4–6

A Prairie Home Companion’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Celebrate four decades of Lake Wobegon tales and songs with three days of live music and performances. When: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. July 4; 11 a.m.–8 p.m. July 5; 11 a.m.–3 p.m. July 6 Where: Macalester College, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: prairiehome.publicradio. org or phc@mpr.org

JULY 8

Sarah McLachlan The celebrated singer-songwriter performs songs old and new,

celebrating her new album Shine On. When: 8 p.m. July 8 Where: State Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $49–$84 Info: 800-982-2787 or hennepintheatretrust.org

JULY 8

Monroe Crossing

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Bluegrass band Monroe Crossing will perform at the first in a series of free concerts throughout July. When: 7 p.m. July 8 Where: Plymouth Congregational Roban, James GA 0513 12.indd Church, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: 612-871-7400 or plymouth.org

3/28/13 3:23 PM

Family owned and operated since 1857

FUNERAL CHAPELS, CEMETERIES & CREMATION SERVICES JULY 11

17 convenient locations:

Talking Volumes with Elizabeth Gilbert Join the author of Eat, Pray, Love to discuss her new novel, The Signature of All Things in this summer edition of the Talking Volumes series. When: 7 p.m. July 11 Where: Fitzgerald Theater, St. Paul Cost: $25; $23 for members Info: 651-290-1200 or fitzgeraldtheater.publicradio.org

BLOOMINGTON 952-884-8145

CRYSTAL

CRYSTAL LAKE

763-533-8643

612-521-3677

WEST BLOOMINGTON COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 763-789-4436

EDEN PRAIRIE

COON RAPIDS 763-767-1000

612-781-1999

EDINA

NOKOMIS PARK

NORTHEAST MPLS.

HOPKINS

SOUTH MPLS.

BLAINE PRE-ARRANGEMENT CENTER

952-975-0400 952-920-3996

The McReavy Family

NORTH MPLS.

952-941-7686

HILLSIDE

612-721-1651

952-938-9020

612-377-2203

ROBBINSDALE

SOUTHEAST MPLS.

763-537-2333

612-379-2368

612-529-9691

612-781-6828

763-231-0506

www.washburn-mcreavy.com JULY 12

Bryn Mawr Garden Tour

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4/10/13 1:42 PM

Enjoy spring blooms with this selfguided tour of private gardens. When: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. July 12 Where: Pick up tour maps at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis Cost: $10 in advance, $15 on the day of event Info: 612-619-4929 or bmna.org

OPENING JULY 13

Marks of Genius One hundred drawings and artworks from the institute’s collection will highlight the role of drawing in

JULY 2014

JULY CAN’T MISS

CALENDAR the process of art making. When: July 13–Sept. 21 Where: Minneapolis Institute of Arts Cost: $13 weekdays, $15 weekends, FREE for MIA members Info: 612-870-3000 or artsmia.org

national acts in a variety of styles. When: 7–11 p.m. July 18; 11 a.m.–10 p.m. July 19 Where: Patrick’s Cabaret and nearby venues, Minneapolis Cost: $15–$20 Info: rootsrockdeepblues.com

noon–6 p.m. July 20 Where: St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, West St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: 651-457-0854 or mideastfest.com

JULY 18–20 JULY 13

JULY 18–20

Bastille Day Block Party

Car Craft Summer Nationals

Celebrate France’s national holiday with live music, local artists, organic foods, a fire circus performance and cold beverages. When: 3–10 p.m. July 13 Where: Outside of Barbette Restaurant, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: 612-827-5710 or barbette.com

A variety of car-related events plus thousands of classic and muscle cars make this event ideal for auto enthusiasts. When: July 18–20 Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul Cost: $13 in advance, $15 at the gate, $26 for a 2-day pass, $39 for a 3-day pass Info: carcraft.com/2014/ summer_nationals

MPR Weekend at the Great River Shakespeare Festival This year’s plays are “The Merry Wives of Windsor” and “Hamlet.” MPR members receive a $5 discount off ticket prices during MPR Weekend. When: The festival is June 25–Aug. 3. MPR Weekend is July 18–20. Where: Winona State University, Winona Cost: $10–$40 Info: 507-474-7900 or grsf.org or info@grsf.org

OPENING JULY 18

Silver: The 25th Cooperative Exhibition More than 90 prints by 37 members of the Highpoint Center for Printmaking’s studio cooperative will include works in lithography, relief, intaglio, screenprinting and more. When: Opening 6:30 p.m. July 18, on display through Aug. 23 Where: Highpoint Center for Printmaking, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: 612-871-1326 or highpointprintmaking.org

JULY 18–20

Highland Fest This annual festival features food, live music, an art fair, a petting zoo, inflatable rides and games and vendors. When: 5–11 p.m. July 18; 9 a.m.–10:30 p.m. July 19; 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. July 20 Where: Highland Village, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: highlandfest.com

JULY 18–20 JULY 18 & 19

Twin Cities’ Roots, Rock, and Deep Blues Festival More than two dozen musical acts join together for a marathon of music across five stages, with local and

JULY 2014

Middle Eastern Festival Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, this festival features children’s games, traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, live entertainment, camel rides, a marketplace, a silent auction and more. When: Noon–10 p.m. July 18–19;

JULY 18–26

Minneapolis Aquatennial Celebrating its 75th year, the official civic celebration of Minneapolis hosts many activities across the city during a week dubbed “The Best Days of Summer.” When: July 18–26 Where: Locations across Minneapolis Cost: FREE. Some events are ticketed. Info: 612-376-7669 or aquatennial.com

JULY 18

Jackson Browne The musician and humanitarian showcases his music in this acoustic tour featuring Browne on guitar and piano. When: 8 p.m. July 18

Where: State Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $57–$67 Info: 800-982-2787 hennepintheatretrust.org

OPENING JULY 19

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike A 2013 Tony award-winner, this play follows a raucous weekend when Vanya and Sonia’s movie star sister Masha returns home with her young boyfriend Spike in tow. When: July 19–Aug. 31 Where: Guthrie Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $34–85 Info: 612-377-2224 or guthrietheater.org

JULY 19

Eat Local Farm Tour Tour 20 Minnesota and Wisconsin family farms, dairies and more as part of this fourth-annual event, organized by 11 Twin Cities food co-ops. When: Hours of operation vary from farm to farm, July 19 Where: Various location in Minnesota and Wisconsin Cost: FREE Info: facebook.com/ eatlocalfarmtour.coop

JULY 19

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Historic Cave Tours

As seen on the History Channel “Secret Passages” Hear, see, and explore stories of the sandstone caves. Hear the legends of mining, mobster massacres, and ghostly lore in a truly unique setting.

Rondo Days Celebrating the best and brightest of Minnesota’s African-American stories, achievements, and culture, this festival includes a parade, events with the Minnesota History Center, and more. When: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. July 19 Where: The Rondo Education Center’s Outdoor Field, St. Pal Cost: FREE Info: rondoavenueinc. org or 651-315-7676

6/18/14 3:52 PM

45 Minute Walking Tour • No Reservations Needed Tour Times Year ‘Round:

$6.00 Per Person

Thursdays 5 pm • Saturdays 11 am • Sundays 11 am Home of the St. Paul Gangster Tour

Wabasha Street Caves • 651-292-1220 215 Wabasha Street South, St. Paul, MN

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6/19/13 5:26 PM

JULY 2014

BRAIN TEASERS

SPONSORED BY MINNESOTA COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN

SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH GET ME A LAWYER!

CRYPTOGRAM Break the code to reveal a quote from a famous person. Each letter represents another letter. Source: Frank Lloyd Wright

N U A

L C

Clue: S = R

Sentence Testimony Title Trust Verdict Waive Witness

Jury Notary Note Ordinance Plaintiff Plea Record

Affidavit Appeal Bond Court Defendant Evidence Guilty O

N S K N U

WORD SCRAMBLE

V M S A

Complete the following three six-letter words using each given letter once. L V R M S N P T N

N U P T .

N U A

J P Y N C

LA___ ___ ___T T

LA___ ___ ___T

1. Plato 2. Interracial marriage 3. Walter Mondale and Hubert Humphrey 4. Affidavit 5. Sandra Day Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor 6. Henry Fonda 7. Brown v. Board of Education, which ended segregation in public elementary schools. 8. Abscam 9. George Orwell

TRIVIA

ANSWERS

JULY 2014

TRIVIA LAYING DOWN THE LAW 1. Socrates was sentenced to death in 399 BC for corrupting the youth and having improper respect for God. Primarily through whose writings do we know this information? 2. Decided in 1967, the Loving vs. Virginia Supreme Court case invalidated laws that prohibited what from occurring? 3. Name the two former vice presidents who were previously Minnesota state senators. 4. What is the legal term for a written sworn statement of facts in a courtroom? 5. Ronald Reagan appointed ______ as the first female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court in 1981.

6. In the 1957 film Twelve Angry Men, which famous actor played the only juror to originally vote “not guilty” at the beginning of the jurors’ deliberation? 7. Thurgood Marshall, who later became the first African American Supreme Court justice, argued for the plaintiff in which 1954 Supreme Court case? 8. The 2013 feature film American Hustle fictionalized the true story of which 1970s and ’80s FBI investigation in which a U.S. senator, seven state congressmen and six members of the U.S. House of Representatives were convicted? 9. Which one of these famous men never had a law degree: John Grisham, Gandhi, George Orwell, Jerry Springer, Henri Matisse?

One of the best gifts you can give a child isn’t found in a toy store.

“The truth is more important than the facts.”

CRYTPOGRAM Latest, Lament, Layout

WORD SCRAMBLE

Visit www.MN529today.com or call 1-877-338-4646

JULY 2014

SUDOKU

ANSWERS

MN College Savings Plan GA NR1 Sponsor V3.indd 1

3/27/13 1:21 PM

CROSSWORD

BRAIN TEASERS

SPONSORED BY MINNESOTA COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1 Guy sib 4 “__ Smile”: Hall & Oates hit 8 Dancer de Mille 13 Mender’s target 14 Hale-Bopp, e.g. 15 Go 16 Grow old 17 *“We’re All Family Here!” Italian restaurant 19 Hairbrush target 21 Submission encl. 22 After-dinner candy 23 Grabs, in slang 25 “The Magic Flute” composer 27 Yearly 30 Actor Silver 31 Speakeasy owners’ concerns 32 NCO nickname 34 Have debts 37 Capri, e.g. 38 “Gosh” ... and a hint to the answers to starred clues

JULY 2014

39 Physiologist Pavlov 40 Gibson of “Lethal Weapon” 41 Museum employee 42 Graph revelation 43 __ tai: cocktail 44 Insults 46 Individual 49 Acting litigiously toward 50 Old horses 51 Federation in OPEC 53 Hid from the police 56 *Goal for many an elite athlete 59 Eggs, to a biologist 60 Home on the range 61 Jockey rival 62 Kilmer of “Willow” 63 Lauder of cosmetics 64 Sign of stagnation 65 Caribou kin DOWN 1 Naughty kid 2 Capital of Latvia

3 *Barbecuing option 4 Like a moment of silence 5 “__ imagining things?” 6 Guns, as a motor 7 Mr. T’s group 8 Styled after 9 Austria’s ofﬁcial language 10 Bottommost point 11 Milestone, e.g. 12 Text message status 14 Eyes, in many emoticons 18 First name of three presidents 20 Clearing in the woods 24 Bite-sized Japanese fare 26 “Avatar” actress Saldana 27 Strait-laced 28 Relaxation 29 Sister of Eva and Zsa Zsa 33 Coral phenomena 34 *Kitchen safety item 35 Have a yen for 36 Wraps up 38 “Certainly, monsieur!” 39 Literary technique involving incongruity 41 Freeway sign word 42 Three-toned chords 43 Capt. Hook’s henchman 45 __ Brush Company 46 Looks inferior, comparatively 47 Luxor’s country 48 Salsa holder 50 Musical symbol 52 “My goodness!” 54 Basic track shape 55 Base on balls 57 Capital of Portugal? 58 Musician Yoko

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