April 2015 by Minnesota Good Age

APRIL 2015

ARUBA!

BEACH PARADISE PAGE 28

HOW TO BE

TAX-REFUND SAVVY

PAGE 24

DON’T

MARRY

FOR FINANCIAL REASONS PAGE 31

CONQUER YOUR CREDIT CARD DEBT PAGE 33

Embrace the Future

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CONTENTS 28 ARUBA! Add this Caribbean gem to your bucket list if you like white-sand beaches.

DEBT HEROES

DON’T MARRY FOR MONEY Matrimony for financial reasons alone may not be a good choice. You could even end up paying a ”marriage penalty.”

One Minnesota couple paid off $93,000 in credit-card debt with help from financial counseling and lower interest rates.

GOOD START

GOOD HEALTH

GOOD LIVING

FROM THE EDITOR 8 Money management doesn’t necessarily come easy.

ASK THE PHARMACIST 16 Consuming citrus pith can help minimize bone loss in some cases.

HOUSING 22 Home equity lines of credit (HELOCS) aren’t always a good bet.

MY TURN 10 Don’t let free in-home care checkups make you uneasy.

HOUSE CALL 18 Hair loss is mostly hereditary.

FINANCE 24 Your tax refund: It’s not a jackpot.

CAREGIVING 20 Managing the costs of being a caregiver requires looking not only at your finances, but also at your employment situation.

TECHNOLOGY 25 You can measure your Internet’s speed, even with dial-up access.

MEMORIES 12 Minnesota’s ‘Right Stuff’ THIS MONTH IN MN HISTORY 14 Artist profile: George Morrison

CAN’T–MISS CALENDAR 6

APRIL 2015

37 36

IN THE KITCHEN 26 Easter dinner? Done!

BRAIN TEASERS

APRIL 2015 VOLUME 34 / ISSUE 4 PUBLISHERS Janis Hall jhall@mngoodage.com Terry Gahan tgahan@mngoodage.com GENERAL MANAGER Chris Damlo cdamlo@mngoodage.com EDITOR Sarah Dorison 612-436-4385 editor@mngoodage.com

History Theatre GA 0315 H6.indd 1

2/16/15 11:58 AM

CONTRIBUTORS Teresa Ambord Suzy Cohen Darryl Dahlheimer Jessica Fisher Carol Hall Skip Johnson Sarah McKenzie Dave Nimmer Sandra Scott Richard Sherman Leanna Smith Michael Spilane Karen Telleen-Lawton CLIENT SERVICES Zoe Gahan 612-436-4375 zgahan@mngoodage.com Mattie Eslinger 612-436-4386 meslinger@mngoodage.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dana Croatt GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Valerie Moe Amanda Wadeson CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson distribution@mngoodage.com

50,000 copies of Minnesota Good Age are distributed to homes and businesses metro-wide. Minnesota Good Age (ISSN 2333-3197) is published monthly by Minnesota Premier Publications. Minnesota Good Age, 1115 Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 ÂŠ 2015 Minnesota Premier Publications, Inc. Subscriptions are $12 per year.

APRIL 2015

FROM THE EDITOR ////// SARAH DORISON

MONEY DON’T COME EASY C

ommon sense tells us we shouldn’t spend more money than we have — to live within our means and stay “on budget.” Simple, right? Oh, boy, no way. In our consumerist, capitalist, maximalist society, messages at every turn tell us to spend, spend, spend. Life gets in the way, too, with plenty of surprises big and small. Our governments — no matter which party gains control — don’t even manage to stay in the black 100 percent of the time. And, yet, when it comes time to retire, we’re all supposed to have millions in the bank to take care of ourselves and our family members — while no longer working — and cover the cost of medical bills, assisted living and long-term care. Our houses are to be paid off, and our debt should be non-existent. If all that sounds impossible, take a step back. I’m no expert in personal finance, but I believe it’s not about perfection. Rather, it’s about striving to do our best, to be ever mindful of the consequences of spending (or not saving). It’s also, sadly, about self-denial. You can’t keep up with the Joneses because there’ll always be richer Joneses. But there’s a flipside to that coin: People who keep their finances under control enjoy the satisfaction of stability. They can weather life’s bumps with less stress. They can witness their own self-control and feel good about their choices. That’s what one Minnesota couple learned on their journey of debt reduction. Burdened by bad circumstances and a failing economy in 2009, the couple found themselves in $93,000 of credit-card debt. But they didn’t declare bankruptcy or run up even more debt (which would’ve been very easy to do). With the help of a local debt-counseling program — LSS Financial Counseling, a program of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota — they paid it all off within five years. And now they’re debt free. Check out their story in this issue — and the awesome work LSS is doing to help families reclaim their checkbooks. Another nugget of financial wisdom in this month’s magazine comes from our finance columnist, Skip Johnson, who explains that our tax refunds should be used wisely. Sure, it’s tempting to think of them as bonuses or fun money, but imagine if that money could be used to make you financially stronger in the long run. These are exactly the kinds of decisions all of us need to make to successfully manage our household budgets. It’s not easy, but we owe it to ourselves.

Sarah Dorison, Editor

APRIL 2015

GOOD START MY TURN ////// DAVE NIMMER

SMART AS A WHIP? W

hen I first got a call from UCare for Seniors, my Medicare Advantage Plan, asking whether I’d like a nurse practitioner to visit me at home, I was skeptical. Is the man coming around taking names — checking to see who’s fit or failing? I thought about it for a day and said, “Yes, c’mon over.” It’s not like I’m sitting around eating bacon for breakfast every morning, drinking a six-pack and pounding a pack of heaters from morning ’til night. I mean, I’m actually exercising on an old NordicTrack five days a week, eating that loathsome broccoli and watching my carbohydrate intake. My primary care physician, Denise Long, expects no less: I do what she says and she practices what she preaches. PHYSICAL HEALTH

When Richard Grode, nurse practitioner, arrived at my door a couple of months ago, I greeted him with a smile and a handshake. He returned the favor, saying his visit was simply to “ensure that I had enough information, care and services to maintain an independent lifestyle.” That sounded fair enough. About 13,000 UCare members participate in the program each year. Grode, who works for Matrix Medical, a UCare partner, came with a digital scale, a blood pressure cuff and a shiny stethoscope. He also had that easy smile, affable manner and proper concern. I chattered on, at first, about all the good habits I have at this stage in life, prob-

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APRIL 2015

ably wanting to impress him. Politely, he listened and then checked for himself: Weight: Trim. Blood pressure: Normal. Lungs: Clear. Heart beat: Steady. Feet: Pink. That’s right, the nurse checks your bare feet to see how the circulation is, a key indicator for diabetics. MENTAL AGILITY

This was the easy part, testing the body. The one I worried about was the “cognitive function” test described for me by a couple of buddies who been there, done this. Of course, at one time or another, we’ve all forgotten familiar phone numbers and first names of people whose faces we recognize. That really frustrates and alarms me since I like to think I’m sharp as a tack, smart as a whip (fill in the cliché). Grode eased into the mind portion, giving me three words to remember and recall for him later. Then he handed me a piece of paper and pen. “Draw the face of a clock,” he said, “putting the numbers in the right position.” I had a moment of panic, but quickly settled down. It’s a damn clock he’s asking for; put the 12 on top and start counting. Done. “Now,” said Grode, “make it 11:10.” Sure, I can do that. Let’s see: It’s the small hand that’s on the 11, isn’t it? Or is it the other way around? No, no, it’s the small hand on the 11. My Lord, you’d have thought I was in first grade. But, I got it. I did it right. RITUAL, ROUTINE

What I have to keep straight — on the pockmarked road ahead — is my attitude, expecting, but not yielding to, the paper cuts and nicks of advancing age. I need a ritual, a routine in my life, that gets me out of the house and out of my head. The first rule is obvious: When you’re feeling sorry for yourself, do something for someone else. Offer a ride, suggest a visit or, for those so inclined, say a prayer.

I need a ritual, a routine in my life, that gets me out of the house and out of my head.

Nurse practitioner Richard Grode visited Dave Nimmer at home as part of a routine wellness visit. Photo by Matrix Medical

The next one is harder for me. That’s being mindful, fully living the day at hand rather than fretting over yesterday or worrying about tomorrow. I can do it in a boat while fishing; now I’ve got to take the magic from the lake to the land. I’ve already wasted too many “moments” because I wasn’t paying attention. And now, I’ve got to accept — no, embrace — the role I play in keeping fit. I can’t rely on wonder drugs and robotic surgery. If I exercise regularly, I feel better; if it’s fewer than five floors up, I’ll climb the stairs. I’ve discovered I can order a salad for lunch — dressing on the side, please — and still feel like a real man (well, most of the time). The more I write, whether it’s letters or emails or short stories, the better my mind works. Oh, and those three words? Apple, penny, watch. Actually, I’m not real sure about the last one. I’ll have to ask Grode when I see him again. I told him he was welcome back next year. Dave Nimmer lives in Woodbury. Send comments or questions to dnimmer@mngoodage.com. APRIL 2015

GOOD START MEMORIES ////// CAROL HALL

MINNESOTA’S ‘RIGHT STUFF’ C

harles Lindberg is world famous. “Speed” Holman is well known regionally for having a St. Paul airport named after him, as is Donald Nyrop for running Northwest Airlines. But the bulk of Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame inductees have names you’ve likely never heard. They’re pilots, mechanics and behind-the-scenes workers at our airlines and airports. They’re military flyers of WWI, WWII and later wars. They restore vintage aircraft, fly corporate jets and run the Civil Air Patrol. One is a balloonist. Their numbers include the pioneering airmail pilots and barnstormers of the 1920s and ’30s as well as the aeronautical engineers who design airplanes.

Each of them was inducted into the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame for having contributed in a significant manner to the development, advancement and promotion of aviation in Minnesota and elsewhere. This list of unsung heroes includes: • Madelia native Major General Doyle Larson, who in 1979 ended a long career with the Air Force after being named commanding general of USAF Security Service. Larson also became a leading developer of Command and Control warfare in the Department of Defense. • Noel Wein of Cook began barnstorming with Clarence Hinck’s Federated Flyers Aerial Circus and went on to establish Wein Alaska Airlines, a name that became synonymous with Alaskan flying. • Minneapolitan Dorothy Schaeffer, during the 1940s, served as assistant director of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (then Wold-Chamberlain Field) — the highest-ranking woman member executive at an American airport. • Northwest Airlines pilot Chuck Doyle, who I often flew with during my stewardess days, began his colorful flying career barnstorming. Doyle later rebuilt and restored vintage airplanes, including a Stearman biplane that he used for banner towing and skywriting in the metro area during the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. • Harold “Bill” Atkins, another Northwest pilot co-worker, developed the strobe light used today on most commercial and military aircraft around the world. (Bill also attached wheels to his large silver pilot’s suitcase, making it the first piece of wheeled luggage I’d ever seen.)

APRIL 2015

SUN-DAMAGED SKIN? ROUGH, RED SPOTS ACTINIC KERATOSES?? The Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame exists to honor all of these individuals, and to preserve their legacy. Established in 1988, its purpose is to collect and maintain a biographical file on each person. In so doing, it acts as a vehicle for putting their names and careers before the public. Currently there are 156 inductees. Noted aviation writer and historian, Noel Allard, is chairman of the board of directors. The organization also annually sponsors a flying scholarship for a young student pilot and honors the best aviation artist and aviation writer in Minnesota. A non-profit corporation, it’s funded by the Minnesota Public Airport Foundation as well as private donations. For their many achievements, Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame inductees could be accurately dubbed Minnesota’s “Right Stuff.” So it seems fitting that — at the hall of fame’s annual awards banquet on April 25 — Nashwauk native and NASA engineer Robert Gilruth, who worked with the Project Mercury astronauts, will be one of those inducted into the group! Carol Hall lives in Woodbury. She’s a longtime freelance writer, a University of Minnesota graduate and a former Northwest Airlines stewardess. Send comments and questions to chall@mngoodage.com.

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APRIL 2015

GOOD START THIS MONTH IN MINNESOTA HISTORY

MORRISON’S MODERN SPIRIT T

his April, we remember the life and legacy of Chippewa artist George Morrison, Minnesota’s own modern spirit. Born to humble beginnings and rising to international acclaim, Morrison and his art explored American urban environments as well as the solitude of Northern Minnesota. Morrison was born on Sept. 30, 1919, in an Indian fishing village near Grand Marais, the third of 12 children. He spoke only Chippewa (Anishinaabemowin) until the age of 6, when he started using English in grade school.

APRIL 2015

He showed an early interest in art, and, after high school, attended the Minneapolis College of Art and Design before moving to New York to study at the Art Students League. While in New York, he befriended abstract expressionists on his journey into the modern-art movement, taking inspiration from international artists like Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso and Allan Houser. Morrison was a well-traveled man, exploring European Modernism in the south of France before taking up numerous teaching positions in the U.S. on the East Coast. But the lure of Minnesota drew him back, and, in 1970, he accepted a position at the University of Minnesota teaching studio art and American Indian studies. He retired in 1983 and moved into a home he called Red Rock on the Grand Portage Indian Reservation along the shores of Lake Superior. Morrison continued to be prolific with his art throughout the 1980s and ’90s. He died on April 17, 2000, at age 80.

I seek the power of the rock, the magic of the water, the religion of the tree, the color of the wind and the enigma of the horizon. — George Morrison, Minnesota artist Photo courtesy of Hazel Belvo

SEE THE EXHIBIT Modern Spirit: The Art of George Morrison features an exhibit of 80 works of art, including drawings, paintings, prints and sculptures. The Minnesota Museum of American Art in St. Paul and Arts Midwest of Minneapolis organized the exhibit with the Plains Art Museum of Fargo. When: Through April 26 Where: Minnesota History Center, St. Paul Cost: $11 adults, $9 seniors, $6 ages 6-17; free Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. Info: minnesotahistorycenter.org.

Throughout his life, Morrison drew inspiration from the natural world. He said: “I seek the power of the rock, the magic of the water, the religion of the tree, the color of the wind and the enigma of the horizon.” He mixed impressionism with expressionism, cubism with surrealism, and abstraction with representation to produce sensuous works that explored form, color and texture. Kristin Manhole, executive director of the Minnesota Museum of American Art in St. Paul said: “Morrison was a master at fusing art and nature in his meticulously painted abstractions and expertly collaged wood landscapes.” Morrison’s award-winning collages, constructed from found and imported woods, and his monumental totems, were unique contributions to 20th-century modernism and are still widely collected. Minnesota Historical Society Staff

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G O O D H E A LT H ASK THE PHARMACIST ////// SUZY COHEN

Healthy bones without drugs? M

any people who take bisphosphonate drugs for bone loss write to me with complaints. Lawyers handle cases now due to reports of catastrophic reactions like osteonecrosis or femur fractures. But what if there were another way? Consider the chemical compound nobiletin. Nobiletin is a powerful “polymethoxylated” flavonoid that comes from the white stringy fiber and peel of citrus fruits, known as pith. Many people spit it out, throw it away or put it in their compost pile. But tangerines and mandarin oranges have high amounts of nobiletin, as do other citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit. Nobiletin has been researched extensively during the past 15 years. It positively impacts cholesterol and reduces inflammation. That’s great news for those struggling with atherosclerosis and heart disease, or for folks on statin cholesterol drugs. Nobiletin, according to some studies, can fight pain, cancer and even some symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Adolescents and adults dealing with acne may benefit from nobiletin because it blocks sebum production. WHY WE LOSE BONE

Bone loss in humans occurs as the result of one of two things. Either your bone cells fail to make new bone or your body breaks down old bone too quickly. There should be a steady balance: Discard old bone, make new bone, discard old bone, make new bone. Bones aren’t solid; they’re dynamic throughout a person’s lifetime. Two major players affect the process of bone building. One is inflammation and the other is

APRIL 2015

By no means am I saying an orange a day will keep the hip fracture away. But regular consumption of citrus fruits or pith-derived supplements might help.

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By no means am I saying an orange a day will keep the hip fracture away. But regular consumption of citrus fruits or pith-derived supplements might help, and can usually be taken with certain medications (though not all). Ask your doctor if it’s okay for you, and look online or at health food stores nationwide. Pith supplements are sold as Sytrinol or as “citrus bioflavonoids.” Be careful, however: Some of the products contain the compound “naringen,” which comes from grapefruit and can dangerously affect you if you’re on certain medications. Self-treatment with natural dietary supplements — even wonderful ones — isn’t recommended. Talk to your doctor or find a holistic-minded practitioner to guide you. Suzy Cohen has been a licensed pharmacist for almost 25 years. Send questions to info@pharmacist.com.

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APRIL 2015

G O O D H E A LT H HOUSE CALL ////// DR. MICHAEL SPILANE

Chemicals used for tinting, bleaching or perming can damage the hair follicles and lead to thinning of hair.

Hair loss is (mostly) hereditary H

aving a full head of hair is much overvalued — the stuff demands lots of fussing and seems to constantly get in the way. But society’s infatuation with scalp hair isn’t going away any time soon, and those of us with less than our fair share will continue to ask “Why me?” More than 50 percent of adult males have some balding of the scalp. The rule of thumb is that 30 percent of men in their 30s have significant hair loss, 40 percent in their 40s and so on until 80 percent of men have at least some baldness by their 80s. The 50 percent prevalence of hair loss in adult women is a better-kept secret. MEN AND WOMEN

The vast majority of hair balding or thinning is caused by hereditary factors. A history of hair loss on either side of the family increases personal risk. Genetically determined hair loss afflicts both men and women, and influences the age of onset, the pattern of baldness and its severity. In men, genetically determined hair loss characteristically

APRIL 2015

involves the front of the scalp, the temple areas and the crown. In women, thinning is far more common than complete loss of hair and is more likely to be present in the center of the scalp rather than at the front. The likelihood of hair loss in women increases at menopause and diminishes after age 65. MEDICAL CAUSES

Non-hereditary conditions or ailments can lead to hair loss, but they account for only 5 percent of all thinning or baldness. The huge list of non-hereditary causes includes toxic chemicals, scalp infections, medications and numerous systemic illnesses and diseases. Alopecia aeriata is the medical term for a patchy loss of hair that occurs in about 1 percent of people at some point in their life. The hair loss leaves spots or patches (possibly large) of baldness that are spread irregularly across the scalp. Its cause is most likely related to an alteration in the body’s immune function, and the condition often resolves without treatment. Medications can cause hair loss. Some drugs are more likely

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Because of the frequency of hair thinning and baldness, the problem attracts the attention of hucksters. Two thousand years ago, people were rubbing animal manure and other concoctions on their scalp, and nothing much has changed at present. Some medicinal chemicals are approved by government agencies for use in restoring hair growth, but the wise person wouldn’t risk the expense and possible side effects for the questionable and limited benefit. If the problem is genetically determined hair loss, the best solution might be to get rid of the mirrors. And remember, it’s an image problem and not a health problem.

Private One Bedroom Apartments

Laundry Service

St. Paul Public Housing Agency GA 1214 H4.indd 3

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Dr. Michael Spilane spent more than four decades practicing geriatric medicine in St. Paul. Send comments or questions to drspilane@mngoodage.com. Let's Dish GA 0415 H4.indd 1

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APRIL 2015

G O O D H E A LT H CAREGIVING ////// LEANNA SMITH

Managing the cost of caregiving W

hether it’s a neighbor, your uncle, a co-worker or even you, chances are you know a caregiver. An estimated 736,000 Minnesotans have made a commitment to provide unpaid care to family, friends and neighbors. The cost of care and services they provide is estimated at $8.9 billion annually — a huge benefit to the recipients of care and to our local health and long-term care systems. However, this commitment of time, energy and financial resources isn’t without its challenges. Caregiving often takes a physical and emotional toll. Caregivers have higher levels of depression and are twice as likely to experience chronic illness as non-caregivers. This is all in addition to the real financial impact of caregiving. A caregiver’s annual out-of-pocket expenses can range from $5,500 — for those caring for someone who lives nearby — to $8,700 for long-distance caregivers. For low-income caregivers, this can be as much as 20 percent of their annual income. FUTURE INCOME LOSS?

Caregiving responsibilities often require adjustments at work, which can affect both current and future income. Adjustments can include passing up a promotion or training opportunities that would result in higher wages. Caregiving can mean going part-time or leaving the workforce altogether. For a typical caregiver, these adjustments can result in the loss of $303,880 in wages, Social Security and retirement savings over a lifetime. For women who assume a caregiving role during their working years, these kinds of work adjustments can have a negative impact on their own retirement and future.

LEARN MORE The Women’s Institute For a Secure Retirement (WISER) offers fact sheets and other tools to further assist with financial preparation and planning for caregiving at tinyurl.com/wiser-women.

APRIL 2015

These women are two and a half times more likely to live in poverty when they become elderly. Clearly, it’s essential for caregivers to be aware of the potential costs. Fortunately, there are resources to help new and current caregivers be proactive about their financial well-being. WHERE TO START?

To reduce care expenses you’re covering out of pocket: • Make sure you have a full understanding of the finances of the person you’re caring for. Are there assets that can be used, long-term care insurance or might they be eligible for public programs to cover the cost of care? • Investigate community resources available to assist with care. Information can be accessed through Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433, the Disability Linkage Line 866-333-2466 or at MNHelp.info. • Have a conversation with family members to see if they can pitch in to help cover the cost of care. WEIGHING WORK

If you’re considering a reduction in hours at work (or leaving work altogether) to provide more time for caregiving, consider these tips: • Before reducing hours or leaving your job, check with your employer to see if there are company policies that would allow you greater flexibility. Options might include working from home, more flexible hours or job sharing. • Make sure you understand the impact any adjustments will have on all of your benefits — health, retirement and beyond. Find out the minimum number of hours needed to retain benefits. • Check on leave policies such as Family and Medical Leave to see if they might provide you the time you need, allowing you to keep your job. See dol.gov/dol/topic/benefits-leave.

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Support the Parks You Love Adopt a refurbished bench or engrave a brick paver at Lake Harriet and leave an impression that lasts for years to come!

A caregiver’s annual out-of-pocket expenses can range from $5,500 — for those caring for someone who lives nearby — to $8,700 for long-distance caregivers.

We offer summer housing for active retirees on the campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth.

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• If you’re going to be the primary People for Parks GA 2013 Filler V6.indd caregiver, find out: Does the person you care for or other family members have resources they could use to could hire you to provide care? A formal agreement should be set up if this option is put in place.

To learn more contact the UMD Summer Housing Office: 218-726-7390 or sumhsg@d.umn.edu www.d.umn.edu/housing/summer/senior

6/26/13 U9:05 of MAM - Duluth GA 0215 V6.indd 1

1/19/15 9:29 AM

presents the summer 2015

Writing Contest Judged by author and teacher Allison Wyss

Caregiving is an amazing gift that more and more Minnesotans are sharing with each other. But it’s important to be realistic about the costs. By anticipating and preparing for the financial realities ahead of time, we can reduce the negative impact on those willing to be caregivers. Leanna Smith is a grants and contracts manager / program developer for the Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging. She’s also a member of the Metropolitan Caregiver Service Collaborative in St. Paul (caregivercollaborative.org).

In honor of the Loft’s upcoming Pitch Conference held November 13–14, 2015, write a poem (45 lines or less) or story (fewer than 800 words) that includes someone or something taking a risk. Submit your entry online at https://www.loft.org/contest

(include contact information and a 1-2 sentence bio) Deadline is April 15, 2015 * Published in the The Journal, Southwest Journal and Minnesota Good Age

CHANCE TO BE PUBLISHED*

ALSO WIN A $100 GIFT CARD TO BRODERS’ AND A $150 LOFT GIFT CERTIFICATE Loft Literary Center GA 0315 S3.indd 1

2/18/15 4:48 PM

APRIL 2015

GOOD LIVING HOUSING ////// TERESA AMBORD

Making a home-equity loan work for you Don’t seek a HELOC if you need it to meet day to-day expenses.

or the past few years, Americans have been nervous about tapping their mortgages for cash. Many who borrowed heavily against their equity when home values were high, ended up underwater when property values sank. Lately, according to CBS News, people are starting to take another look at home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) when they have unusual cash needs. HELOCs can be a good alternative when large, unexpected expenses pop up, like the need for a new roof, or a big dental bill that Medicare won’t touch. Just don’t make the mistake that many made — of using their homes like ATMs whenever they wanted cash. HELOCs are also called second mortgages, but that name’s a little scarier. It’s a loan, smaller than your first mortgage, which is secured by your house. That adds an element of risk. HOW MUCH CAN YOU BORROW?

The maximum amount you can borrow is determined by a formula — the home’s value times 85 percent, minus the mortgage outstanding. On a home valued at $300,000 with a mortgage of $175,000, here’s how the numbers work out: $300,000 x 85 percent = $255,000 $255,000 – $175,000 = $80,000 maximum line of credit. But this is also subject to other factors (discussed below). To qualify for a HELOC, you’ll need good credit, a sufficient income stream to make the maximum payments that the line of credit could include, as well as your regular monthly bills, and, of course, sufficient equity in your home.

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Some industry experts say if you’re considering a HELOC, the best time to apply for it is before you retire. Lenders look at your total debt compared to your total income, when deciding your fate. So borrowing while you’re still working should result in a more advantageous HELOC. THE UPSIDE OF HELOCS

• A HELOC is flexible, since rather than taking a lump sum, you use it as you need it, or don’t use it at all. You aren’t obligated to take the full amount, and no interest accrues until you spend some of it. Suppose you do end up with a $10,000 dental bill. You tap the HELOC for that amount, and leave the rest until and unless it’s needed. • A HELOC is a revolving credit line. In other words, like a credit card, your available balance goes down as you borrow, and fills up again as you pay it back. Interest begins to accrue only as you borrow. Also similar to credit cards, your approval and the rate you get depend on your credit score, existing debts and borrowing history. • The interest rate on a HELOC is likely to be much lower than a credit card or unsecured loan, since the loan is secured by your home.

• If you have debts, like credit cards with high interest rates, you can consolidate that debt by paying them off lower-interest HELOC funds. • The interest you pay on your HELOC is tax-deductible. Credit cards interest isn’t. • HELOCs are best for a person who can be fairly sure his or her income won’t go down. THE DOWNSIDE OF HELOCS

• HELOCs shouldn’t be used to pay day-to-day expenses. If that’s your goal, you’ll end up in a worse situation than you’re already in, since you’re unable to meet regular expenses. • Many people use a HELOC to wipe out high-interest credit cards, then end up running up the cards again, making their financial situations much worse. • The fact that your home is collateral makes the interest rate lower, but it also adds risk that you can’t

What’s a HELOC? A Home Equity Line of Credit is also called a second mortgage. It’s a loan, smaller than your first mortgage, which is secured by your house. Learn more about HELOCs on the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau’s website (consumerfinance.gov), which includes a HELOC brochure, at tinyurl.com/HELOC-mortgage.

pay for your home. • HELOC rates are variable. If baseline rates go up or down, your interest rate and your payment will also fluctuate, making you vulnerable to rate spikes. If your income’s tight and there’s little or no flexibility, you could be in a bind. It’s possible to get a cap — possibly a lifetime cap or a periodic cap — on the rate, so it’s important to ask. • The bank could freeze your HELOC, if your house loses a great deal of value and the bank has reason to believe you can’t repay the loan.

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• Unlike credit cards, HELOCs involve up-front costs similar to those you paid when you took outMill City Numismatics GA 0513 V6.indd your first mortgage. These costs will likely include an application fee, a title search, an appraisal, attorney’s fees and points. This can be too costly for someone who hopes to use only a couple thousand dollars of a HELOC. If that’s your situation, you may be better off using a low interest credit card, or if your credit is bad, then try a secured card.

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• If you use a HELOC to pay off credit-card debt, you save interest. However, you’re trading unsecured debt for secured debt. Unsecured debt can be discharged in bankruptcy. Secured debt, like a HELOC can’t. Teresa Ambord is a frequent contributor to Good Age. Send comments or questions to editor@mngoodage.com.

APRIL 2015

GOOD LIVING FINANCE ////// SKIP JOHNSON

It’s a refund, not a jackpot Y

our income-tax refund can be the largest single amount of money you will get all year. According to a recent report by the U.S. Treasury Department, the average American’s refund last year was $2,696. It may feel like you’ve hit the jackpot, tempting you to splurge. It’s easy to think of this money as a gift or a bonus, but it’s not. You worked hard for this money; it was already yours. It was just withheld from your paycheck. When you think about it that way, it’s much easier to dedicate it to a long-term goal rather than spending it on this and that. Here are five ways I recommend using your tax refund that will help your financial situation in the long run: BUILD IT UP

An emergency fund is an essential part of a financial plan, but many Americans don’t have one. In fact, a December study by Bankrate.com found that only 38 percent of Americans say they have enough savings to cover an emergency. I recommend my clients have three to six months of savings in the bank, and a tax refund can be a good start. If you already have an emergency fund, you can use your refund to build up other accounts, like your retirement fund or a savings account for a grandchild’s college education. CUT IT DOWN

I’d love to see everyone who has debt put their tax refund toward paying it down. And I’m not just talking about credit card debt. You can also use the money to make an extra payment on your house, car or student loans. The quicker you can pay off those high-interest debts, the better your financial picture will look.

APRIL 2015

STRETCH IT OUT

It’s easy to think of this money as a gift or a bonus, but it’s not. You worked hard for this money; it was already yours.

If you’re getting a large tax refund every year, consider changing your tax withholding. You can make changes at any time during the year by going to your payroll office and filling out a new W-4 if you’re still working, or by submitting a new W-4P for a pension or annuity, or a new W-4V for Social Security or railroad income. If you decrease your withholding, you won’t get as big of a refund next year, but you’ll get more in each paycheck throughout the year. The IRS has a calculator on its website to help you figure out how much you should be withholding at tinyurl.com/withholding-calc. PAY IT FORWARD

If you’re not planning to retire in the near future, you can use your tax refund as an investment in your career. Use the money to pay for continuing-education courses, a weekend conference or an online class to learn a new skill. Investing in your education may increase your earning power down the road. SPLIT IT UP

You may want to set aside a small percentage for a splurge — as long as it’s a smart splurge. If you love your morning coffee, you could get a cappuccino maker so you can cut out your Starbucks runs. Exercise equipment or workout DVDs could replace a gym membership. Just make sure you’re only spending part of your refund and dedicating the biggest chunk to one of the other goals. Remember, this money isn’t a gift. It’s money you worked hard to earn. The delivery was just a little late. Treat it like a paycheck and you’ll be happier, financially, down the road. Skip Johnson is a partner at Great Waters Financial in New Hope, Minn. Learn more at mygreatwaters.com.

GOOD LIVING TECHNOLOGY ////// MR. MODEM

How do I measure my Internet speed? I’m using high-speed Internet over a phone line. It works okay, but on occasion it goes so slow that sites never finish downloading. Is this a provider problem?

Q&A

I would start your investigation with your Internet service provider. First you must determine what connectionspeed range you’ve been promised. Your provider’s website will have that information or you can call their customer service department. With that information in hand, run several speed tests using a site such as speedtest.net, bandwidthplace.com or cnet.com/ internet-speed-test. Connection speeds can vary greatly throughout the day and night, so conduct tests at varying times over several days. If your average upload and download speeds fall below what you should be receiving, contact your provider’s tech support.

WORTHY WEBSITES

You’ll have evidence to support your assertion that the connection speeds you’re receiving aren’t what were represented and your provider can investigate. I received a message from Yahoo! Mail telling me I’m running out of storage space and I need to provide my password so they can increase my capacity. Is this for real?

Your suspicion is justified. I’m glad you remembered what I so frequently yammer about: Never provide your password or voluntarily confirm any other personal or account information when requested to do so by email. No legitimate organization or service will ever ask you for that information. Just delete the message you received and don’t give it another thought.

When I installed the latest version of Microsoft Office on my Windows 8 computer, all my favorite keyboard shortcuts disappeared!

The good news is that most of your favorite keyboard commands are still present, but have been changed. Why? Because it would obviously make too much sense to leave them as they were. Your beloved Print Preview is now ALT + CTRL + I. Accessing a list of all keyboard commands is as simple as clicking the question mark in the upper right of the page. Word Help will open. Type “keyboard shortcut” and you’ll find a complete listing. I think you’ll be very pleased with the results. Richard Sherman, a nationally syndicated columnist, first ventured onto the Internet in 1988. Learn more at mrmodem.net.

BA BA DUM

This gorgeous site lets you practice your vocabulary in 13 different languages with a variety of highly visual but simple picture games. (See an example, pictured at right, from the French game.) Select the language you want to practice by clicking the country's flag graphic. For a real challenge, you can practice in an assortment of languages. babadum.com

PICA PIC This site features a digitalized collection of handheld games. These games triggered a wave of nostalgia for me. Use the menu at the bottom to select a game and use the arrows at the left and right of the screen to scroll back and forth. A down arrow shows which game is currently selected. If you mouse over the game, a Play button appears. This will enlarge the game and display its controls. The games feature the same sounds as if you were playing the original handheld versions. pica-pic.com APRIL 2015

GOOD LIVING IN THE KITCHEN

Easter dinner? Done! BY JESSICA FISHER

Honey-mustard baked ham 1 (8- to 12-pound) bone-in shank-half ham 1 cup pineapple juice  1⁄2 cup light brown sugar  1⁄2 cup honey 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Serves 12 to 14

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Remove any wrappings from the ham as well as the plastic disk on the bone. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down. Pour the pineapple juice over the ham. Cover with aluminum foil, sealing it around the lip of the pan. Bake for 2 to 3 hours (15 minutes per pound). Prepare the glaze: When the ham has about 30 minutes left to cook, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, mustard, cayenne and enough juices from the roasting pan to make a thick paste. Spread the glaze: When the ham has about 20 minutes left to cook, uncover it and spread the glaze over the top. Continue cooking, uncovered, for the last 20 minutes.

APRIL 2015

Tastiest-ever scalloped potatoes 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 1⁄2 cups half-and-half 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces 1⁄2 cup heavy cream Serves 4

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Overlap the potato slices in the prepared dish, seasoning with salt and pepper every few layers. Pour the half-and-half over the potatoes and dot the surface with the butter. Bake for 45 minutes. Pour the heavy cream over the potatoes and continue baking until golden brown on top and very tender when pierced with a knife, about 45 minutes more.

Seasoned cauliflower

Roasted asparagus 2 pounds fresh asparagus

1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1⁄2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme 1⁄2 teaspoon dried dill 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika 1⁄8 teaspoon freshly Ground black pepper Serves 4

Place the cauliflower in a steamer basket in a medium-size stockpot with 1 inch of water.

Good olive oil

Bring the water to a boil, cover and steam the cauliflower until tender, about 10 minutes.

Freshly ground black pepper

Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a serving dish.

Break off and discard the tough ends of the asparagus. If the remaining spears are thick, peel them.

Combine the butter, garlic, salt, thyme, dill, paprika and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle the spiced butter over the cauliflower and toss gently to distribute evenly.

Kosher salt, plus extra for sprinkling

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then toss to coat the asparagus completely. Spread the asparagus in a single layer and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper. Roast the asparagus for 25 minutes, until tender but still crisp.

Jessica Fisher’s latest book is Good Cheap Eats: Everyday Dinners and Fantastic Feasts for $10 or Less. These recipes and photos were published with permission from The Harvard Common Press.

— Recipe by Ina Garten / foodnetwork.com

APRIL 2015

TRAVEL

Arubah

ruba — a small island in the southern Caribbean Sea — is more far flung than many other Caribbean destinations. In fact, it’s only 18 miles from the north coast of Venezuela. Yes, as in South America. But with its sandy beaches, cooling trade winds, and friendly people, the island is one of the best in the world for tourists. It’s also considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations. It lies outside of so-called Hurricane Alley. And,

APRIL 2015

unlike much of the Caribbean region, Aruba boasts an arid landscape, which results in much more reliable weather. From the Twin Cities, you can get to Aruba in a day via connecting flights in Atlanta, Miami or New York, to name a few options. If a full day of air travel makes you weary, many reasonable flight options include overnight layovers to break up the trip. But that’s how you’d get to Aruba. Here’s why you’d want to go.

hhhh! Add this Caribbean gem to your bucket list if you’re into white-sand beaches, azure waters, colorful architecture and tropical breezes. By Sandra Scott

Palm Beach on the island of Aruba shines on a sunny spring afternoon.

1. Beaches: Aruba’s Arashi Beach is on the list of top beaches in the world. Aruba’s many white-sand beaches are clean, and they’re all public, even though many of them stretch out in front of hotels and resorts. Some boast chairs, lounges and palapas (thatched-roof shelters) that can be rented for the day. Some are busy, but there are also vast stretches that are virtually unvisited. 2. Shopping: Aruba’s capital city of Oranjestad is a popular cruise port, so shopping is assured. There are highend shops featuring watches and diamonds, but there’s also

a flea market with popular fun-in-the-sun garments and toys. Plus there are grocery markets offering everything you’d expect to find in the U.S. 3. Land tours: The best way to explore the island is a half-day or all-day tour such as those offered by ABC Jeep Tours. Visit a natural pool, a lighthouse, caves with petroglyphs and other iconic sites. The popular Kukoo Kunuku buses will take you to dinner and pubs galore for a taste of Aruba nightlife. APRIL 2015

Oranjestad, Dutch for "orange town,” is the capital and the largest city in Aruba and is a showcase for colorful Dutch-style architecture.

4. Water tours: Water, water, water everywhere. Go scuba diving and snorkeling. A German freighter wreck and other wrecks are just off shore. Enjoy deep-sea fishing for marlin and wahoo. If you don’t want to get wet, head 130 feet under the Caribbean Sea on the Atlantis Submarine. Pelican Tours offers a variety of experiences including their popular Sunset Cruise.

Aruba’s Arashi Beach is on the list of top beaches in the world. Aruba’s many beaches are all public, even though many of them stretch out in front of hotels and resorts.

5. Catch the wind: Every day is breezy on the island, making Aruba the perfect place for sailing on a catamaran with Red Sea Sports. Aruba Active Vacation offers land sailing and windsurfing. 6. Dining: Aruba offers every kind of cuisine, ranging from familiar fast-food places like Wendy’s to romantic private feasts on the beach. Visitors should try some of the Aruban specialties: Waka Waka is a jungle-themed restaurant that serves a variety of offerings, including Aruban specialties such as stoba di cabrito, a goat stew. 7. Historical: Visit the Aruban Historical Museum in the capital to learn about the island’s

LEARN MORE Plan your trip at aruba.com and visitaruba.com

APRIL 2015

history, political development and the unique climate. The archeological museum has Indian artifacts dating back to 2,500 BC. The most visited historical site is the Alto Vista Chapel, which is included on most island tours. 8. Festivals and more: There are a variety of events throughout the year including some that celebrate national holidays and others that promote local traditions. Events include fireworks on New Year’s Day, carnival in February and a music festival in May. 9. Getting around: The bus is one of the easiest ways to get around. There are also unmetered taxis: Rates are fixed and should be confirmed in advance. Aruba is so small, renting a car is stress-free as long as you stay on the paved roads. 10. Accommodations: You’ll find high-rise condo rentals, and low-rise ones like Sunset Beach Studio, all with kitchen facilities. There are hotels in many price categories. That includes a familyfriendly Holiday Inn, Bucuti & Tara, an all-adult luxury hotel, and the all-inclusive Divi Resort. Prices are best during low season from mid-April to mid-December. Sandra Scott is a longtime freelance travel writer based in Mexico, N.Y. Learn more at sanscott.com.

Marriage — straight or gay — may not be a good choice just for finances. BY KAREN TELLEEN-LAWTON

DON’T WED FOR ECONOMIC REASONS Dear Dis: You're right that marriage doesn't have a

Dear Karen, I'm pretty satisfied with our current living arrangement, but ever since the Supreme Court struck down the guts of the Defense of Marriage Act, my partner has wanted us to get married. It's not that I don't plan for us to stay together, but neither my siblings nor my straight friends seem to be able to figure out how to make marriage work. Why should we bother? — Disillusioned

good track record these days. The freedom that many feel now to enter marriage leads us to ask questions such as yours: Why get married? Marriage is for people who want to be each other's family, which is a pretty high standard. When that commitment is made, society upholds it with legal benefits and responsibilities. The Human Rights Campaign (hrc.org) catalogs more than 1,100 benefits, rights and protections granted to married couples. These include Social Security, tax perks, family and medical leave, immigration, employee benefits and COBRA. APRIL 2015

benefits will contribute to the deficit, that's apparently not the case. Research by economists and analysis by the Congressional Budget Office suggest that state and federal budgets do and will benefit from expanding the definition of marriage. Any additional state and federal spending on benefits apparently will be outweighed by savings from lower cash assistance and Medicaid spending. COMPLEXITIES LOOM

Another disadvantage of marriage is that you may pay more income taxes if you become subject to what some call the ‘marriage penalty.’ This happens when and if your joint income lands you in a higher tax bracket than either of you had singly. BECOMING NEXT OF KIN

The benefits accrue largely because a spouse leap-frogs over the rest of the family to become your next of kin. Retirement plans such as 401(k)s require the spouse to be the beneficiary unless he or she waives that right. Likewise, spousal and survivor Social Security benefits accrue to legally married partners. Depending on the state and any legal contracts, there are potential implications such as emergency hospital visits or expressing the wishes of a spouse who’s incapacitated. There are some restrictions: Partners must be married at least one year before spousal benefits apply, and nine months before survivor benefits. Given that, the same collecting strategies apply, such as one spouse collecting spousal benefits after full retirement age while the higher-paid spouse delays until age 70. LEGISLATION IN THE WORKS

Congress is discussing legislation to award benefits to legally married same-sex couples regardless of ZIP code. The Justice Department also is reviewing the issue. In the meantime, the Social Security Administration encourages all to apply now to protect potential benefits, even if they aren't sure of their eligibility. The SSA says there will be no penalty for applying for benefits that are later denied. Interestingly, in case readers are wondering if these new

APRIL 2015

But what's the other side of the coin for a couple? The responsibilities parallel these benefits. You’re financially responsible for each other. Your married partner's individual debt may not legally be yours, but jointly owned assets are at risk with a spouse's debt. When you combine lives, your finances intertwine in ways that are difficult to predict, including potential effects on your credit rating. Another disadvantage of marriage is that you may pay more income taxes if you become subject to what some call the "marriage penalty." This happens when and if your joint income lands you in a higher tax bracket than either of you had singly. Finally, with marriage comes the potential for divorce. When a spouse becomes a "fife" (former wife) or a "wasband," the process is still difficult, costly and time-consuming by design. Given these complexities, I wouldn’t suggest a marriage for financial reasons. GET ENGAGED?

The overarching question for you is whether you want to commit your life to your partner. If so, I suggest an oldfashioned engagement period, whose purpose is to try on the idea and check out the implications. This includes everything from meeting (or getting to know better) each other's families to exploring your finances. If either of you still has kids living at home, it would be wise to bring them into the discussion (without necessarily allowing them a deciding vote). Discussing your future goals and dreams — travel, retirement plans and so forth — may be an enjoyable way to begin. Then you can segue into the present, comparing budgeting, attitudes toward debt and credit scores. If all of this makes you want to run the other way, then it may be time to have a serious discussion about your future as a couple. Karen Telleen-Lawton serves seniors and pre-seniors as a financial advisor in Santa Barbara, Calif. Learn more about her practice at decisivepath.com.

DEBT

FREE!

One Minnesota couple paid off $93,000 in credit-card debt in just five years, thanks to a Debt Management Plan that offered them lower interest rates. By Darryl Dahlheimer

he road map for personal finance has changed radically from past decades. One of the biggest changes is the rise of credit cards, with 334 million in circulation in the U.S. — more than one for every adult in America. The trouble isn’t the cards, it’s the creditcard debt. And it’s not just younger generations running up big bills. In fact, a 2012 report from the nonprofit public-policy organization Demos found that older Americans have the highest balances of any age group, carrying an average $9,300 in credit-card debt each. It’s easy to see why people might use their access to easy credit: Medical expenses, reduced work income and the need to help family members are just a few of the motivators. Living beyond one’s standard of living (even

just slightly) can be a tempting proposition as well — easy to start, hard to stop. And it can become a debt trap. The average credit-card interest rate is 15 percent, and being late on even one payment can trigger penalty interest rates averaging 28 percent, plus monthly late fees — a waterfall of consequences. Fortunately, seniors are fully capable of paying back debt. In fact, LSS Financial Counseling (a program of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota) recently expanded its annual Financial Advocacy Awards event to include a “Debt Repayment Hero” category to honor those who have. It seems like so many times the financial news is nothing but clucking tongues and hand-wringing about our economy. APRIL 2015

We’ve seen seniors who made just one late payment and saw their credit-card debt balloon with interest and fees: In one case, a $180 charge became a balance of $950. LSS wanted to turn the spotlight around, and celebrate financial responsibility. LSS’s 2014 Debt Repayment Heroes were Rod and Bonnie, a Minnesota couple who successfully paid back more than $93,000 of credit-card debt in five years. Like many couples, there was a very human story behind the debt — reduced self-employment income, unexpected medical expenses and financially helping other family members. They first met with an LSS financial counselor in 2009 and embarked on a pathway out of debt. They found ways to drive down expenses and increase income to free up money for repayment, and began a structured Debt Management Plan (DMP) to consolidate their credit-card debt at much lower interest rates. Rod would bring his DMP payment into the LSS office each month, give his counselor a hug, and say to her, “April, buddy, we’re doing it!”

There were bumps in the road — an income setback due to injury, a car needing to be replaced — the kinds of things that cause many people to give up or head toward bankruptcy. But Rod and Bonnie showed courage and determination, and at the end, made their last payments early. Being debt-free for life became its own reward, but more tangibly: “Now I get to retire!” Bonnie said. No longer having that monthly debt payment was equivalent to a Social Security check. LSS Financial Counseling celebrates this couple and all who take financial responsibility to conquer their debt. We’ve seen grandmas who agree to pay their grandkids’ DMPs each month if those grandkids will go to budget counseling and learn how to avoid new debt. We’ve seen seniors who made just one late payment and saw their credit-card debt balloon with interest and fees: In one case, a $180 charge became a balance of $950. Making a Debt Management Plan can help families navigate debt more successfully, and become free of debt. LSS has 3,000 people using Debt Management Plans each month to repay their credit-card debt — in full — and more quickly due to the reduced rates creditors will offer. That’s millions of dollars each year back into the economy, and a path to debt freedom for thousands. Darryl Dahlheimer is program director at LSS Financial Counseling in Minneapolis. LSS has nine offices in Minnesota that offer in-person help, plus nationwide help via phone counseling. To get an appointment or information, call LSS at 888-577-2227 or visit conqueryourdebt.org.

Where can you go for debt help? Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota financial counselors joke that debtmanagement plans are the “best kept secret in town.” But they also lament that seniors often fall victim to “debt settlement” scams, which are heavily advertised on radio and TV. Here are some tips for finding debt help: • Look for certified counselors.

APRIL 2015

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling connects consumers with reputable, NFCC-certified credit-counseling organizations, including LSS. Call 800-388-2227 or see nfcc.org. • Find out about Debt Management Plans. DMPs reduce interest rates, so debt is paid more quickly (typically within

five years or less). If you’re getting penalty rates or late fees, DMPs are a lifesaver. But you can benefit from lower rates even if you aren’t behind. • Don’t pay up-front fees for debt assistance. Visit the Minnesota Attorney General’s website for tips on avoiding scams at tinyurl. com/debt-assist-scams-mn.

Embracing LIFE as

DEATH draws near

New book reflects on the gifts of a terminal illness BY SARAH MCKENZIE

MPR’s Cathy Wurzer and Bruce Kramer record an interview. Photo courtesy of MPR News

Bruce Kramer has transformed his terminal illness into an opportunity to cherish his life and loved ones with a renewed vigor. Kramer, former dean of the College of Education, Leadership and Counseling at the University of St. Thomas’ downtown Minneapolis campus, hopes his reflections and insights from living with ALS can help other people frame their lives and learn to focus on what’s important. He’s collaborated with MPR’s Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer on a series of radio conversations exploring how he has adapted to his new life after being diagnosed in 2010 with the neurodegenerative disease that causes muscles to weaken. The two have also teamed up on a book project called We Know How This Ends: Living While Dying, which will be released in April by the University of Minnesota Press. Wurzer has formed a special bond with Kramer and his wife, Evelyn Emerson, as they have explored what it means to truly live in the face of death. Wurzer said Kramer has been an inspiration as she has grieved the recent death of her father after he battled dementia. “The story is all of us are given a choice about what we are going to embrace in our lives,” Kramer said. “All of us know we are going to die. If you look at those two realities, then

the question is do you embrace life as you die? Or do you embrace death? I feel that I have been very lucky that I can talk about embracing life.” Here are highlights of a recent conversation with Kramer and Wurzer: How do you feel now that

Q&A the book is complete?

Wurzer: I feel gratified — a great sense of gratitude that we’ve reached this point and that the University of Minnesota Press thought there was value in this story. Writing a book is difficult — your whole soul gets poured right out there in front of God and everybody. I am happy we can see that all of our efforts have come to fruition. It’s right in front of us, which is really wonderful. Kramer: I am musician and when I finish something I always feel a certain sense of letdown. I have to really fight that. When we sent in the most workable version of the book, I really did feel letdown. I didn’t want to stop working on it. One of the things that has interested me so far is how young people have reacted to [the book.] I kind of thought, “This is a book framed by a dying man.” The fact of the matter APRIL 2015

is that the younger people who have had access to it, they’ve talked about how much it has helped them to think about the meaning of their own lives — what they want to do with the time that they have. That is also quite gratifying. I don’t look it as a project anymore — projects have beginnings and endings. What I see with this is the potential for it to become more of a movement that people begin to really use some of this to frame their own lives and help others that they love. It just seems that in 2015 we keep being pushed and encouraged to be very superficial — to really not deepen meaning. We keep turning back to a consumer and materialistic culture for a sense of meaning yet in the end, that sense of meaning is meaningless. Something like this asks people to really deepen their own thinking about what makes a well-lived life, and we all know that this life is temporary. We know there is an ending to it. We know we’re not going to get out of it alive. What would you say are some of the gifts you’ll cherish from this experience? Kramer: To me the key gift is that when you look at the receipt of a diagnosis like ALS, the neurologist that diagnosed me honestly believed that he was giving me a death sentence. And yet when you look at the work that Cathy and I have started to do and then the friendship that Cathy, Ev and I have developed, you see this juxtaposition of something that says, “You’re dying,” but at the same time, the experiences we’ve had say that we’re living — and we’re living beautifully and we’re living in ways that have touched us both. I prefer to focus on that side of it. The dying part is a given. All that it has done is to allow me to focus on the gifts — the unseen gifts that ALS has brought, and one of them is this wonderful friendship with this wonderful person (Cathy) to my left that has really enriched all of our lives — Ev and my life together. Wurzer: Most of my friends and co-workers when I first got into this project thought, “Boy — what a downer. It’s about death and it’s all about darkness, sadness.” And yes, there has been sadness talking about death, dying and diagnosis. During the course of our conversations, my father was diagnosed with dementia and he died a year ago March 2. During our conversations, Bruce was almost like my dad’s voice. It was really interesting because I would talk about my dad and what was going on. Bruce prepared me for my dad’s death better than anybody could have really, which was a huge gift. Bruce is absolutely correct: The friendship all three of us have had — against the backdrop of what most people would think is dark and sad — is actually this bright, brilliant loving

APRIL 2015

BOOK SIGNING What: Attend a reading and book signing for We Know How This Ends: Living While Dying by Bruce Kramer with Cathy Wurzer. When: 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26 Where: Common Good Books, St. Paul Info: commongoodbooks.com

relationship. My life will never be the same because of Bruce Kramer and Ev Emerson. It has been so enriched and deepened in such a wonderful way that I never thought possible. You talk about ALS turning you inside out. What do you mean by that? Kramer: We all work so hard at putting up boundaries — facades. But when you have ALS there is no lying about it. There’s no such thing as hiding the fact, and so all of those boundaries get put on to the inside and there you are — you’re pretty well laid out for people. The public and the private merge and become one. There just isn’t space for playing those games anymore. So being turned inside out has been another gift. In being more honest with myself, I find myself being more honest with others. I say, “I love you,” a lot more. I cry a lot more, and there’s nothing wrong with that. What do you hope comes from the book? Wurzer: The space (for readers) to do their own reflecting on their own lives, and also not to fear death. I know that sounds strange because we don’t know what’s beyond, and that can be a very fearful thing. Bruce is one of the most joyful people I have ever run into even against this backdrop of impending death. ... I don’t have that fear of dying anymore. It’s a part of life. … It can be very beautiful. Kramer: To me one of the things that I hope that comes out of this is the message we don’t have to fear. We’ve been given this great gift. By avoiding it, we’re probably avoiding one of the most wonderful parts of our life. Sarah McKenzie is the editor of the Southwest Journal. She lives in Minneapolis. Read the full version of this interview at tinyurl.com/wurzer-kramer.

APRIL CAN’T-MISS

CALENDAR APRIL 13

Twins Home Opener In their first home game of the season, the Twins go up against the Kansas City Royals. When: 3:10 p.m. April 13 Where: Target Field, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $17. Info: minnesota. twins.mlb.com or 866-800-1275

ONGOING

Mary Poppins This stage version of the classic Disney film features all the songs and characters viewers know and love. When: Through Aug. 29 Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Chanhassen Cost: $50–$84 Info: chanhassendt.com or 952-934-1525

ONGOING

The Habsburgs Rarely seen masterpieces from one of Europe’s greatest dynasties are featured in this expansive collection of artworks, including many never shown

outside of Austria. When: Through May 10 Where: Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis Cost: $20 for adults, $10 for ages 6–17 Info: artsmia.org or 612-870-3000

ONGOING

Fruit Fly: The Musical In this exuberant production — brought back in celebration of the company’s 40th Anniversary Season — a gay man and a straight woman (a fruit and a fruit fly) see of they can quit each other in order to find true love. When: March 26–April 11 Where: Illusion Theater, Cowles Center for Dance and the

Performing Arts, Minneapolis Cost: $18–$25 Info: illusiontheater.org or 612-339-4944

APRIL 2

The Art of Active Aging LeagueAires’s lecture series continues with keynote speaker Tim Carpenter, founder of EngAGE, a nonprofit that transforms senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity. When: 7 p.m. April 2 Where: MacPhail Center for Music, Minneapolis Cost: FREE. Pre-registration is required. Info: tinyurl.com/art-of-aging

APRIL 2015

APRIL CAN’T-MISS

CALENDAR OPENING APRIL 3

And the World Goes ’Round This musical revue celebrates the songs of prolific musical theater collaborators, John Kander and Fred Ebb. Directed and choreographed by John Command (A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum), this eclectic collection of love songs, torch tunes and witty comic numbers will include All That Jazz, Mr. Cellophane, Money, Money, Cabaret and more. When: April 3–May 24 Where: The Jungle Theater, Minneapolis Cost: $28-$48 Info: jungletheater.com or 612-822-7063

APRIL 4

The Mavericks The electrifying Grammy-winning ensemble, featuring vocalist Raul Malo, share their genre-defying mix of postmodern country, pop, rock, Latin and lounge music. When: 8 p.m. April 4 Where: Pantages Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $48.50–$58.50 Info: hennepintheatretrust.org or 800-982-2787

Theatre, Minneapolis. Cost: $25 Info: jungletheater.com or 612-822-7063

THROUGH APRIL 12 THROUGH APRIL 5

Annie Experience the timeless story with all the songs, characters and moments viewers have loved for decades. When: Through April 5 Where: Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $49–$99 Info: hennepintheatretrust.org

Jazz at the Jungle opens its 2015 season with vocalist Connie Evingson with New York City pianist Jon Weber of NPR’s Piano Jazz, along with Gordy Johnson (bass) and Dave Karr (saxophone), performing songs by Irving Berlin, Peggy Lee, Rodgers and Hammerstein, the Beatles and more. When: 4 and 7:30 p.m. April 5 Where: The Jungle

APRIL 2015

Anne of Green Gables In this adaption of the classic tale, a young orphaned girl spends time on a rural farm on Prince Edward Island. When: Through April 12 Where: Theatre in the Round, Minneapolis Cost: $22; senior discounts are available. Info: theatreintheround.org or 612-333-3010

APRIL 10

Birthday Bash The VocalEssence Chorus and the University of Minnesota’s Wind Ensemble will celebrate the 80th birthday of legendary composer, parodist, musicologist and foremost P.D.Q. Bach historian, Professor Peter Schickele. When: 8 p.m. April 10. Minnesota Public Radio’s John Birge will host a pre-concert conversation with Schickele at 7 p.m. Where: Ted Mann Concert Hall, Minneapolis Cost: $20-$40 Info: vocalessence.org or 612-371-5656

APRIL 5

Blue Skies: Songs of Spring

Hall, St. Paul Cost: Tickets start at $12 Info: thespco.org or 651-291-1144

APRIL 22

Eco-Friendly Lawn Care In this Earth Day course — Building Sustainable Lawns for a Better Planet — learn eco-friendly lawn design, maintenance practices and easy actionable steps you can take to improve your own lawn, which might just save you money. Build a better lawn for yourself, your community and for the planet. When: 1–5 p.m. April 22 Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska Cost: $25 (includes arboretum admission) Info: arboretum.umn.edu/ 2015EarthDay.aspx or 952-443-1400

APRIL 10–11

Ravel’s Mother Goose Under the direction of maestro Matthias Pintscher, Peter Serkin and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra present the world premiere of a new piano concerto from Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Charles Wuorinen. French favorites bookend the program, which finishes with Maurice Ravel’s whimsical Mother Goose. When: 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. April 10, 8 p.m. April 11 Where: Ordway Concert

APRIL 24

Gerontological Conference The Minnesota Gerontological Society — a group of social-service professionals working to bridge research and practice in the realm of aging — hosts its 39th annual conference, Designing Our Destiny: Aging Ain’t for Sissies — Challenges,

APRIL 26

Dar Williams The pop-folk singer-songwriter tours in support of her most recent album, In the Time of Gods, which tackles Greek mythology from a modern viewpoint. When: 7:30 p.m. April 26 Where: Cedar Cultural Center, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $31. Info: thecedar.org or 612-338-2674

THROUGH MAY 10 Photo by Bridget Bennett

ONGOING

Girls Only This original comedy, subtitled The Secret Comedy of Women, celebrates the honor, truth, humor and silliness of being female. With a two-woman cast and audiences full of raucous, laughing ladies, the show is a unique examination of all things girly. When: Through April 19 Where: New Century Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $29.50 ($25.50 for ages 65 and older) Info: hennepintheatretrust.org or 612-455-9501 Opportunities and Affordability. When: 8 a.m.–4 p.m. April 24 Where: Earle Brown Heritage Center, Brooklyn Park Cost: Register before March 31: $45 for students and retirees; $100 for society members; $195 for non-members Info: mngero.org or 952-829-5937

OPENING APRIL 25

Carmen Georges Bizet’s short career was primarily devoted to opera, reaching a remarkable climax in 1875 with this production following the adventures of a smoldering femme fatale. Performers sing in French. English translations will be projected above the stage. When: April 25 and 30, May 1–3 and 7-10 Where: Minnesota Opera, Ordway Center for the

Performing Arts, St. Paul Cost: Tickets start at $25. Info: mnopera.org or 612-333-6669

Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play This dark comedy, an exploration of pop culture’s resilience, tells the story of a troupe of survivors as they recount and perform episodes of The Simpsons in a post-apocalyptic world. When: March 31–May 10 Where: Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis Cost: $34–$65 Info: guthrietheater.org or 612-377-2224

THROUGH MAY 16 APRIL 25–27

Hijab Tube In this 45-minute family show, a young Muslim woman tries to decide whether to wear hijab in the U.S. She takes the question to YouTube, drawing an illuminating range of responses from other American Muslims and unique perspectives on Islamic culture in 21st-century America. When: 2 p.m. April 25 and 7:30 p.m. April 26-27 Where: Mixed Blood Theatre’s Alan Page Auditorium, Minneapolis Cost: Free seats are first come, first serve. Advance seats are available for $20. Seating begins 30 minutes before the show. Info: mixedblood.com or 612-338-6131

Creepy Crawly Subtitled An Entomological Investigation of Textile Pattern, this unique art exhibit by Jennifer Angus features thousands of insect specimens pinned directly to the gallery walls in striking patterns. When: Through May 16 Where: Textile Center, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: textilecentermn.org or 612-436-0464

CONTACT US! Do you have an event or story idea to share? Send calendar items (six weeks before your event) to calendar@mngoodage.com. Share your story ideas with us by writing editor@mngoodage.com.

APRIL 2015

BRAIN TEASERS

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Complete the following three six-letter words using each given letter once. ___ A ___VE___ V

___ N ___ ___ST

IN ___ ___ ___ E

B W E V Z .

1. Money, Money, Money by ABBA 2. Rich Girl by Hall & Oates 3. She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer

TRIVIA

ANSWERS

APRIL 2015

TRIVIA

What will be your legacy?

NAME THAT TUNE! Name the song titles — and the artists — behind the following lyrics: 1. Money, money, money / Must be funny / In the rich man's world / Money, money, money / Always sunny / In the rich man's world

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APRIL 2015

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