November 2015

NOVEMBER 2015

MAD ABOUT MADISON Page 24

THE NIGHT THE FITZ WENT DOWN Page 16

Meet the Hi-Tones Senior audiences can’t get enough of this engaging Twin Cities duo Page 34

What to look for in a senior housing facility

Housing resources

Page 41

Page 39

4 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

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Contents

24

Madison eats

Wisconsin's capital is a foodie town full of culture, creativity and history, too.

41

Independently living

My mother was proud that she’d raised me to be truly independent. Little did I know that the place I would best achieve that goal wasn’t in my house nor in an apartment in town, but in an independent-living apartment in a senior-housing facility.

6 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

34

On the cover Meet The Hi-Tones: Singer-guitarist Scott Krisher, 54, of Lakeville and guitarist Elliot Grater, 72, of Maplewood have been performing classic songs and leading sing-alongs at senior-focused communities for the past three years. Although both men have performed locally in various rock and country bands for years, mostly at bars, outdoor festivals and VFWs, they agree that retirement and assistedliving communities are fast becoming their favorite venues.

Cover photo by Tracy Ann Walsh Tracy Walsh Photography tracywalshphoto.com

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 7

Contents We buy gold, silver, coins, & currency

My Turn 12 Dave Nimmer and his friends recently honored their late fishing buddies.

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Good Start

Good Health

Good Living

From the Editor 10 Senior housing facilities are redefining 'the good life.'

House Call 18 Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for oral health issues.

Memories 14 Carol Hall remembers a year of tragic, vivid memories.

Caregiving 20 Life-enrichment strategies and problem solving can help seniors — even those with chronic illnesses — ­improve their overall mood and quality of life.

Housing 30 Dividing family household goods takes thought, planning

This Month in MN History 16 Forty years ago, the Fitz went down into Lake Superior.

44

Can’t-Miss Calendar

48

Finance 32 Should you relocate in retirement?

Maybe. And should you downsize or even upsize? It depends.

Brain Teasers

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8 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

FIFTH ANNUAL CRAFTACULAR AND HOLIDAY BAKE SALE A Benefit for St. Paul-Reformation Lutheran Church’s Music Ministry

Saturday November 21 · 10 am – 4 pm Sunday November 22 · 9 am – 1 pm

Volume 34 / Issue 11 Publisher Janis Hall jhall@mngoodage.com Co-Publisher and Sales Manager Terry Gahan 612-436-4360 tgahan@mngoodage.com Editor Sarah Dorison 612-436-4385 editor@mngoodage.com

Volunteers and musicians are still needed!

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Contributors Carol Hall, Steve Greenberg Skip Johnson, Dave Nimmer, Lauren Peck, Dr. Michael Spilane, Karen Telleen-Lawton, Tina Mortimer, Carla Waldemar, Lauren Walker, Tracy Ann Walsh Creative Director Dana Croatt Graphic Designers Valerie Moe Amanda Wadeson Client Services Zoe Gahan 612-436-4375 zgahan@mngoodage.com Lauren Walker 612-436-4383 lwalker@mngoodage.com Emily Schneeberger 612-436-4399 eschneeberger@mngoodage.com Advertising 612-436-4360 ads@mngoodage.com Circulation Marlo Johnson distribution@mngoodage.com

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Minnesota Good Age, 1115 Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 © 2015 Minnesota Premier Publications, Inc. Subscriptions are $12 per year.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 9

Good Start / From the Editor / By Sarah Dorison

A 'good life' redefined Grace Jacobs is

living the good life.

The West St. Paul woman has the largest and most modern kitchen she’s ever had.

Her garage is heated and even includes a builtin car wash to take off winter salt and snow.

She’s highly social with numerous activities and meals with friends filling her days and nights.

Her home includes large spaces for entertaining and she has helpers who will provide almost anything she needs, including cleaning services, if she needs them.She feels independent. She feels safe.

Photo by Tracy Walsh tracywalshphoto.com

Now, wait: Would you guess that Jacobs lives in an independent-living senior housing complex that also offers assisted living and memory care?

Jacobs, whose essay about senior living appears in this issue (our semi-annual Housing Issue), is having, she told me, “a whale of a good time.”

The 84-year-old said she’s telling her story because she’s seen too many folks come into her community who wait too long to leave their single-family homes or apartments.

“Moving into senior housing was a blessing for me,” she said. “I’m glad that I came early enough that I was able to make my own downsizing decisions. I was able to choose the facility where the community life best fits my lifestyle and my husband’s probable future needs for memory care.”

Not many of us like to think ahead to the day when we decide — or perhaps become forced — to move into senior-living quarters.

But Jacobs’s story reveals that things have changed in how we live into our old age. Facilities aren’t tolerating elders in our society, they’re celebrating them, catering to their needs like never before with activities and entertainment.

Take, for example, our Cover Stars this month, The Hi-Tones.

They could work a variety of local gigs, but they keep coming back to seniorliving communities for the joy it brings them (and local residents).

From my perspective, the future — for all of us on the inevitable path to retirement and senior living — actually looks brighter than ever.

Sarah Dorison, Editor 10 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

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Good Start / My Turn / By Dave Nimmer ⊳⊳ Dave Nimmer (left to right), Ron Handberg and Jim Shoop stopped briefly at Lake Minnitaki to honor their late fishing friends.

The last to die, this past July, was Ted Smebakken. Ted was a political reporter at The Star and the former press secretary to Gov. Wendell Anderson. Until his death, Ted ran an antique shop in St. Paul and insisted on fishing with antique gear

Fishing friends

— rods that snapped in two and reels that lost their handles.

Over the years, each of us gave him new gear and we never saw him use a

→→How do you celebrate dear deceased friends?

Walleye, prayers and stories (if you're lucky)

stick of it. What we did see from him,

I went fishing with my buddies in Ontario this past

True friendship

August, as we’ve done for the better part of 35 years. As usual, we caught walleyes,

As a group, these men understood what

told stories, scrambled eggs and watched sunsets. Not usual was the memorial

a good friend does: Check in. Call up.

“moment” we set aside on the last evening at the Pickerel Arm of Lake Minnitaki,

And help out. Bob Lederer and I talked

almost 150 miles north of International Falls.

every week, no matter whether he and

We said a prayer and shared some thoughts of our four fallen brothers, who have

and the others, was a peaceful pattern for growing older.

Judene were in Alaska or Arizona. The

diminished our ranks by more than half — all since 2007. We celebrated our past with

Bear came to see me in the hospital, even

them, applauding their conscience and character, laughing at their flaws and foibles.

when he was confined to a wheelchair.

They found the courage to change,

What we’ll miss

to rid themselves of bad habits, old

The first to go was Tom Matthews, a former reporter and editor for The Minne-

stereotypes or outdated attitudes.

apolis Tribune and St. Paul Dispatch. Tom made great blueberry pancakes and

Three of them quit smoking, two quit

exaggerated stories about the fish we caught. I was with him the day he said we

drinking and one quit eating sweets

caught eight lake trout, some close to 10 pounds. I think we caught four, and the

and starchy foods.

biggest was about 6 pounds.

The next to die was Bob Lederer in 2009, my oldest friend and a combat veteran

Physical, mental shifts

of two tours in Vietnam. He was clearly our leader; he bought the groceries,

They weren’t perfect, of course. While

handled the logistics and calculated each fisherman’s share of the bill. He was

Bob Lederer carefully counted carbs, he

unfailingly polite and unaffectedly gracious.

continued to smoke cigarettes. As for The

Bob “The Bear” Schranck died in 2010, ending our friendship of 47 years. The Bear,

Bear, he came to believe that gays and

a reporter at The Minneapolis Star, fancied himself a gourmet cook. His spaghetti

lesbians weren’t strangers, but, in fact, a

and meatballs were tasty, but in preparing them, he dirtied every pot and pan in the

prominent, proud and productive part of

kitchen and occasionally got the meal on the table at 10 p.m.

mainstream life in the Twin Cities.

12 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

Celebrating the Holidays!

All four generally accepted their infirmities — those pre-existing conditions — with good humor and amazing grace.

Ted Smebakken suffered the effects of congestive heart failure the last few years, but he never missed a fishing trip. He’d show up with his CPAP

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I realized what a struggle it must’ve been when we took a walk one evening and I could hear him struggling to catch his breath as we walked slowly down the road.

What I never heard was a complaint.

Caring for others They shared an affinity to help those dealing with addiction, powerlessness and poverty. Tom Matthews had a long history of 12-step work in AA, sharing publicly the story of his recovery and “carrying the message.”

Bob Lederer made a career out of providing legal aid to Oklahomans who were disabled, destitute or ille-

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and fish to catch. Those for whom we prayed would expect no less.

Dave Nimmer has had a long career as a reporter, editor and professor. Send comments or questions to dnimmer@ mngoodage.com.

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Good Start / Memories / By Carol Hall

Unforgettable events →→‘Flashbulb memories’ can be terribly painful, but also richly meaningful

sical music concert with her and her boyfriend that evening. The Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra was playing at Northrup Auditorium.

Strangely enough, I was glad to be there. It felt good to be with friends.

The music was soothing and complemented my mood.

Certain memories are so traumatic they remain etched in your brain forever.

On Nov. 22, 1963, I was a Northwest Airlines stewardess, and was working my way toward a degree at the University of Minnesota.

I’d just stepped into the Eddy Hall lunchroom when someone ran in, shouting that President Kennedy had been shot during a motorcade in Dallas. I distinctly remember that everyone in the room was dumbfounded by the news except for a study group of law students who seemed unfazed and continued studying.

And on a snowy day in mid-February of that same year, I was ironing clothes when a fellow stewardess, Sylvia, called with the news no airline crew member ever wants to hear.

One of our Northwest airplanes had crashed in the Florida Everglades and there were no survivors.

“I don’t know for sure, but I think Myrna was working that trip,” Sylvia said.

Myrna Ewert was my best friend.

I was all alone in the apartment I shared with two roommates. I tried to continue my day as usual, while rushing to the radio again and again for updates, desperately hoping Sylvia was wrong.

I knew Myrna had gone out on a four-day shuttle, but I wasn’t sure what cities were involved. The downed flight had just taken off from Miami.

When, finally, the crew members’ names were announced, I was driving my car, heading out to pick up a new pair of skis. Hearing Myrna’s name over the car radio, I had to pull over and park the car, the skis forgotten.

Once back at the apartment, the telephone was ringing incessantly.

Friends knew Myrna and I had been close, our friendship forged through working trips together. They called to offer condolences.

I was overwhelmed with grief. My roommate Joyce insisted I attend a clas-

14 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

I dreaded the funeral. Flying to Chicago, and on to Bensenville, Myrna’s hometown, with a Northwest supervisor, I was the only co-worker there.

Expecting only a memorial service, I was almost as shocked as when I got the news of Myrna’s death to see a bronze coffin at the front of the church.

Psychologists call such memories “flashbulb memories” because of their near-photographic nature that holds up over time. The information remembered, fueled by the intense emotional reaction the event generated, is far more detailed than it is with ordinary memories.

Even though my flashbulb memories of those days are painful to recall, in an odd way I’m grateful for them.

Losing my best friend in such a violent manner at such a young age (28), and being able to remember it all so clearly is almost a tribute to our friendship.

Rest in Peace, Myrna. I miss you still today.

Carol Hall, who now lives in Woodbury, grew up in Southwestern Minnesota. 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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Good Start / This Month in Minnesota History / By Lauren Peck ⊳⊳ The SS Edmund Fitzgerald is pictured — in a photo taken by vacationing tourists — at the Soo Locks in Michigan in July 1975 a few months before its sinking. Nov. 10 marks the 40th anniversary of the loss of the freighter.

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society

steel mills near Detroit and Toledo.

On Nov. 9, 1975, the Fitzgerald was headed from Superior, Wis., to Great Lakes Steel near Detroit with a winter storm building.

The Fitzgerald and a nearby ship, the Arthur M. Anderson, stayed in close radio contact as they traveled, agreeing to take a northerly route across Lake Superior where they’d be more protected by highlands on the Canadian shore.

But soon winds reached near-hurricane strength at 65 to 70 mph, with gusts up to 100 mph.

The sinking of the Fitz →→40 years ago, the Great Lakes freighter went down in a cloud of mystery

Nov. 10 marks the 40th anniversary of one of the Great

In the afternoon, on Nov. 10, Capt.

Ernest McSorley reported some damage, including a fence rail down and the loss of its radar, and asked the Anderson to guide him to Whitefish Bay, Mich.

At 7:10 p.m., the Anderson’s captain, Bernie Cooper, checked in to ask how the Fitzgerald was doing, and McSorley reported, “We are holding our own.”

Those would be the last words heard

Lakes’ most famous and mysterious shipwrecks — the sinking of the SS Edmund

from anyone on the Fitzgerald. A few

Fitzgerald on Lake Superior in 1975.

minutes later, the ship disappeared from

The loss of the freighter and all 29 crew members shook the country. No freighter

the Anderson’s radar and never reap-

had been lost on Lake Superior since 1953, and the Fitzgerald was outfitted with

peared. When Capt. Cooper radioed

an experienced crew and state-of-the-art technology. Inexplicably, the ship hadn’t

around 7:22 p.m., there was no answer.

launched any lifeboats or transmitted a distress signal to nearby ships.

When it first went into service in 1958, the Fitzgerald was the largest ship on the

The ship was eventually found in two pieces beneath 530 feet of water about 17

Great Lakes and the most expensive ever built at a cost of $8.4 million. With its

miles from the entrance to Whitefish Bay.

ability to haul more than 25,000 tons of cargo, the Fitzgerald set to work hauling

Even 40 years later, the reason for the

taconite across the lakes, frequently bringing iron ore from Silver Bay, Minn., to 16 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

ship’s demise is still in debate.

In 1977, a Coast Guard study found that the cause couldn’t be conclusively determined, but it named massive flooding in the cargo hold, due to the crew’s failure to properly close hatches, as the most likely cause.

However, others, including Cooper, disagreed with the Coast Guard and argued that the Fitzgerald had passed too close to a shoal during the storm, damaging the ship enough to sink it.

Lauren Peck is a media relations and social media associate for the Minnesota Historical Society.

→→Honor the anniversary of the shipwreck Every year on Nov. 10, the Minnesota Historical Society’s Split Rock Lighthouse remembers the 29 lives lost in the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald with a commemoration event.

This year, the society will remember the 40th anniversary of the wreck with films, costumed interpreters sharing shipwreck history and a reading of the late crew members’ names as a bell tolls and The Naval Hymn plays.

Split Rock Lighthouse will light its beacon to remember those lost from the Edmund Fitzgerald and from all Great Lakes shipwrecks.

The event, which will be on a Tuesday this year, also provides the only opportunity of the year for visitors to climb into the lighthouse tower after dark. Learn more at mnhs.org.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 17

Good Health / House Call / By Dr. Michael Spilane

Keep your teeth →→Advancing age puts oral health at risk

How many teeth does an adult human have?

Answer: Thirty-two permanent teeth — 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars and 12 molars. The third molars are the most distant from the middle of the mouth and are often called wisdom teeth. They’re the last to appear, typically erupting between ages 17 and 25.

Keeping our teeth healthy over many decades isn’t easy.

Injuries take a toll, but the biggest enemy is infection by the mouth’s bacteria.

Tooth infection (decay or cavity) and gum infection are the two main causes of tooth loss. Bacteria can cause problems even with the best of diets. Our modern, snack-focused diets of soda, cookies, French fries and chips encourage bacteria to proliferate and attack.

Getting older puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems.

According to WebMD.com, those can include darkening teeth, dry mouth, diminished sense of taste, root decay, gum disease (which can lead to tooth loss), uneven jaw bone, denture-induced stomatitis and thrush.

The addition of fluoride to toothpastes and the fluoridation of community water supplies have resulted in major reductions in rates of tooth cavities, but they’ve had little impact on the rate of gum infection and disease.

About 25 percent of Americans over age 60 have lost all of their teeth (edentulous). Factors contributing to the prevalence of complete tooth loss are

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socioeconomic factors, older age, poor dental hygiene, avoidance of professional dental care and a lack of insurance coverage.

Edentulism is treated with use of various types of dentures.

For a single missing tooth, treatment options include a fixed dental bridge or a tooth implant. The natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth must be filed down to accept and hold a prosthetic dental bridge.

An implant is an artificial tooth root, typically made of titanium. A crown is attached to the implant. An implant procedure is considerably more involved

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and expensive than a dental bridge, but is often more cost-effective option.

Brushing, flossing and proper diet are important.

Regular visits to a dentist are even more important. There are 200,000 practicing dentists in the U.S., about a quarter as many as the number of practicing physicians.

Dr. Michael Spilane, now retired, spent more than four decades practicing and teaching geriatric medicine in St. Paul. Send comments or questions to drspilane@mngoodage.com.

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Retire from your job, not your dental benefits Americans spend a lot of time planning for retirement so they can enjoy their “Golden Years.” However, often left out of many retirees’ futures is employer-funded health and dental benefits. According to the U.S. Census, over 6,000 Americans turn 65 each day, but only about 32% of retirees receive continued health benefits from their employer. Retirees are often left to make benefit decisions on their own in an unfamiliar, ever-changing healthcare environment leading some to forgo dental coverage. One thing you shouldn’t retire is good oral health. Neglecting to have dental coverage and regular dental visits after retirement can lead to further complications, which means even more dental visits, extensive procedures and expenses that far outweigh the “Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and investment in preventive care.

heart disease, are more prevalent with age and impact oral health”

It is known that good oral health is essential Dr. Sheila Strock, Vice-President of Dental Services for the overall health of all individuals, at Delta Dental of Minnesota especially seniors. It’s important for you to know that the health of your teeth, gums How can you avoid oral health complications and mouth is in fact connected to your that lead to other health issues? overall health. “Chronic health conditions, • Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day such as diabetes and heart disease, are • Floss your teeth at least once a day more prevalent with age and impact • Visit your dentist regularly oral health,” said Dr. Sheila Strock, Vice • Utilize preventive dental benefits President of Dental Services at Delta Dental of Minnesota. Regular visits to the dentist can also help in the early detection and management of serious physical illnesses, such as diabetes and oral cancer as the dentist can see signs of many medical conditions in the mouth.

Although many older adults are keeping their teeth due to better dental care, community water fluoridation and an emphasis on prevention, they may also experience an increased risk for oral conditions such as dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease due to their health status and medications. As we get older, we enter a second round of cavity prone years. One common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth. Although dry mouth is not a normal part of aging, it is a side-effect in more than 500 medications.

Delta Dental of Minnesota offers retirees a seamless option to continue their dental benefits by enrolling in a Delta Dental of Minnesota Individual or Family Dental Plan. You can count on Delta Dental to be your partner in maintaining your health through oral health by providing quality, affordable dental benefits so you can retire, but not retire your dental coverage. Keep your smile for a lifetime!

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DDMN.10.10.15.1

Good Health / Caregiving

Feeling low?

→→You (or your loved ones) can feel better with problem-solving and life-enriching strategies

“I want to write a book. I’ve always wanted to write a book. You can help me,” Carl said.

Carl and I were trying to come up with activities that could help him feel more upbeat about his day-to-day life.

“Wow, you’ve got real dreams — such ambition!” I said. “Have you ever written something as big as a book before?”

He shook his head left and right and responded, “Not yet.”

I enjoyed Carl's spunk.

“Maybe you could start with something a little more manageable to ease into the bigger task?” I wondered aloud cautiously, to encourage Carl's continued enthusiasm while guiding him to take smaller, more realistic steps.

As a licensed social worker and counselor, I was assigned to work with Carl on his outlook on life.

After a few more minutes of our conversation, Carl settled on a plan to spend 20 minutes, five days a week, at the desk in the corner of his dining room in the apartment he shares with his wife. He could write, read, even play games — whatever he found enjoyable.

Mood screening Carl is a bright, engaging 75-year-old man, who suffers from cardiac disease.

He has a history of low mood, and over the years, has tried treatments with medication and psychotherapy, both with limited results. He isn’t interested in either option anymore.

At this particular visit, I didn’t just talk to Carl.

I also gave him an annual nine-question screening to check his mood.

Most people who go to a medical clinic periodically fill out such a screening questionnaire.

This time, Carl scored an 11, which suggested to me he was experiencing a moderate level

20 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

of persistent sadness or low mood.

Carl said he was interested in talking more about his mood and how to feel better, so there we were, considering whether he should write a book.

Getting engaged, ending isolation When working with clients in my role as a life-enrichment specialist, I usually aim to identify a few engaging activities with a participant to include pleasure, physical activity and — perhaps most important — socializing.

Isolation is a major contributor to shorter lifespans among elders in our community, so social activity is critical.

Additionally, in studies during the past decade, researchers have discovered the power of simple activities and solving life’s problems to help alleviate low mood and persistent sadness.

Don’t underestimate the transformative power of activities like taking a routine walk in the hallways of your apartment building, calling friends, knitting for family members who live far away, taking a class in yoga where you can be seated in a chair, doing creative arts alone or in a group, growing tomatoes on your balcony or planning for a talk with your physician.

Problem solving My engagement with clients also includes teaching and using an effective technique to solve problems we encounter in our lives.

Problems that seem insurmountable can lower mood; resolving them can enhance mood.

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→→FROM CAREGIVING / PAGE 20

keep it simple and plan with him to spend time at his desk.

I’m pleased to use such a relatively

Considering his health condition

obvious and easy approach to help my

and fear of snow and ice, I hoped to

clients feel better. This usually starts

ease into physical and more social

with conversations that include ques-

activities after the spring thaw.

tions like, “Are there problems that get you down?” or “Do you have situations in your life that you can’t stop thinking

I called Carl a few weeks later to see how things were going at his desk.

He was frank: “It’s not working. The

about and maybe make it hard to get

days go by and I can’t seem to get to my

out of bed in the morning?”

desk that much. I thought it would be

If it seems like a good idea, I

easier, but I sometimes feel so tired

sometimes also explore the possible

— and that desk starts looking so far

benefits of working with a psycho-

away, even in this small apartment.”

therapist or talking to a doctor about mood-helping medication.

I also meet with people who may

Carl sounded a bit deflated, but his openness invited me to interject a positive tone.

be experiencing other life challenges

“Hey, I remember you said your

in addition to low mood or persistent

desk sounded like an attractive place

sadness.

to spend some time, and I really

Sometimes a participant will need

believe you. But keep in mind: This

to address grief issues, pain, chronic

is new stuff; and sometimes getting

disease, housing or food needs, spiri-

started isn’t a piece of cake.”

tuality or other life situations before they have the energy and attention to

Trying again: Success!

focus on mood.

We changed Carl's plan to have him

Living with chronic illness I find a good number of older adults, like Carl, who have chronic ailments, also deal with low mood.

Carl was in the process of finding ways to feel a sense of accomplishment and purpose in his life.

Adding to his low mood was the

instead sit at his desk twice per week instead of five times so he could get

→→How to get help If you or someone you love has been struggling with mood or persistent sadness — and you would like to explore ways to feel better about life — contact Jewish Family Service’s Life Enrichment Action Program, or LEAP, of St. Paul at 651-690-8904.

LEAP is based on a program at the University of Washington called PEARLS. Through LEAP, people age 55 and older are screened for long-lasting sadness and depression, and are offered the opportunity and encouragement to solve problems and engage in meaningful activities — often ones they enjoyed in their past or something they’ve always wanted to do.

LEAP services are provided free and in the home, improving access for isolated, homebound elders. Participants don’t need to be Jewish. In fact, about half of the current participants are not. Participants also don’t need to be working with a social worker or caseworker to get involved in LEAP. Learn more at jfssp.org.

some feeling of success.

Since he loves to read, Carl chose to try writing book reviews, not for publishing, but for his own satisfaction.

During the six months we worked together in person and over the phone, Carl created a number of

began a comfortable exercise program.

At the end of our initial collaboration, he scored five on the mood questionnaire — a 22 percent improvement on the scoring scale.

During the six months of follow-

fact that he felt stuck in the house due

reviews and felt quite accomplished

up after our initial work, Carl

to wintry conditions, being afraid of

and pleased with himself.

continued to improve in mood and

falling on the ice and snow.

During my recent visit, I opted to

He also started going to cardiac reha-

he took pride in his progress.

bilitation three times each week and

This article, written by Steve Greenberg with Jewish Family Service of St. Paul, was based on real-life accounts from life-enrichment specialists Holly Brackett and Betsy Kane Ellis, who were working as part of the Jewish Family Service’s Life Enrichment Action Program. Brackett came to the program through her work with Keystone Community Services of St. Paul, a partner organization to Jewish Family Service.

22 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

Good Living / Travel

24 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

Come to Wisconsin’s cool capital for history, art and culture, but also — perhaps most of all — its thriving food scene

Mad

Ea

dison

ats

By Carla Waldemar

▲▲Photos courtesy of the Greater Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 25

Madison Eats

C

atch that whiff of something special in the air?

It’s the scent of quirkiness — the sweet aroma of a lifestyle that’s both lively and laid-back.

It’s Eau de Madison, less than five hours east of the Twin Cities, Wisconsin’s capital. And capital of cool. A compact urban center

where town and gown are twinned like ham and eggs (organic and heirloom, of course) — the legislators, lobbyists (and protesters) of the Capitol building, the city’s epicenter, matched by the scholars of the University, all linked by an isthmus between two city lakes.

Heart of the city

everything you want,” explained owner Ken Montleone as he

Let’s start our visit at the Capitol (free tours), crowned by the

handed out samples.

fourth-floor observation deck with 360 city views and, just above, a golden maiden pointing Forward (the state’s motto).

The circular greensward carpeting the approach is

A few steps farther and you’ll find yourself at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, an anything-but-dusty panorama of the state’s role in wars from Civil (Wisconsin’s

claimed by locals as their outdoor living room — home to

famed Iron Brigade led the Battle of Antietam) through

free concerts, picnics, a parade of food trucks and a weekly

Spanish-American, Philippine, Mexican-American (heavy

farmers’ market mid-April through early November.

wool uniforms in the torrid Texas heat) to World Wars I

The real estate belting it includes a wine bar, restaurants and shops like Fromagination, boasting 150-plus Wisconsin cheeses cut to order. They’ve got “nothing you need, but

and II, Korea and, finally, Vietnam (first chance to fight in combat zones for Blacks, Hispanics and women).

Bonus: The gift shop sells marionettes personifying the state’s

▲▲Lake Mendota (left) and Lake Monona (right) are visitable in this picture taken from the Capitol building, looking east down picturesque Washington Avenue.

26 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

→→Plan your trip See visitmadison.com

greats, including Hank Aaron, Georgia O’Keeffe and Sen. Gaylord Nelson.

Art, beer and olive oil Head next to the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center (pictured below), the last building by homeboy Frank Lloyd Wright, designed in 1938 to echo the nearby Capitol, but left unbuilt until approved posthumously in 1992 (free tours).

A photo gallery reveals his inner persona, while a gift shop peddles his designs blanketing scarves, ties, jigsaw puzzles and a snow globe he would’ve hated.

After tracking bikers along Lake Monona, retrace your steps to State Street, a seven-block pedestrian-only ramble to the campus, crammed with coffeehouses like Steep ’n’ Brew,

▲▲Bike paths skirt the lakeside exterior of Madison's Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 27

Madison Eats ethnic eateries (Peruvian, Laotian, Mexican, Greek to name a few) and indie boutiques, both fine and funky.

Refresh yourself at HopCat, sporting 130 brews on tap (many

Then stride to the Memorial Student Union, with its beach-side terrace aside

from Wisconsin) or Red Elephant, whose house-made truffle

Lake Mendota — beer, brats

bestsellers include crème brulee and salted caramel whiskey.

and campus-made ice cream

Vom Fass offers gourmet olive oils, vinegars and spirits (yes,

(follow the long lines). Free

cognacs and single malts). Grab a bench here for some of the

concerts, too. (Does anyone

best people-watching on the planet.

ever study around here?)

Rejuvenate your inner artist at the Madison Museum of

Hikers can ramble all the

Contemporary Art (MMCA) on State Street, designed by

way to Picnic Point, which

star-chitect Cesar Pelli, with shows such as Death in Venice

anchors the lakeside nature

— illustrations by a professor emeritus from the U’s art depart-

preserve.

ment. The gift shop’s well-curated collection of home and body accents is dangerously alluring.

On the campus, brake for more art in the (free, as are all museums on campus) Chazen Museum’s immense collection of every bold name in modern movements — Picasso, Henry Moore, Grant Wood, Grandma Moses, Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol — plus Asian and African treasures.

It’s a big-city food scene in a smaller town. Lots of really fantastic restaurants.

— Dan Fox, chef at Heritage Tavern

Vibrant food and drink Now you’re more than ready for the very best reason to visit Madison, and that’s dinner.

Farm-to-table is a subset of the 10 Commandments here, initiated decades before it became common parlance.

In the vanguard, L’Etoile, aside the Dane County Farmers Market from which it gleans its fixings, is headed by James Beard-blessed chef Tory Miller, who serves seasonal starters like sweet corn and bacon risotto and Hook Farm’s cheddar with heirloom tomatoes and watercress, concluding with black raspberry crème brulee and carrot-molasses spice cake with honey-raspberry custard.

Nearby, another Tory Miller venture, Graze, wows diners with Wisconsin charcuterie and cheeses (and a pickle board, too) to augment what may be the best grilled cheese in the state. (Hint: Graze is one of the few locovore havens that’s open for lunch.)

Next: Check out Tory Miller’s take on Spanish tapas in coming-soon Estrellon.

Johnny Delmonico’s is a state-of-the-art steakhouse (primo fish and chicken, too) and a BLT-turned-BLAST, thanks to creamy avocado and crispy pea shoots.

Fresco, atop the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMCA), just lured a chef from New Orleans, who’s added his signature to seasonal dishes — including a snap-pea chiffonade with mint and house-made prosciutto; a grilled peach salad

▲▲Madison's long-popular Dane County Farmers Market — full of finds for local foodies — runs from mid-April through midDecember at various locations. Photos courtesy of the Greater Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau 28 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

dolled up with goat cheese, honey, truffle oil and walnuts; and a “bayoubaisse” — a Creole tomato broth surrounding Andouille, crab, shrimp and green tomatoes, served over rice.

Oh, and beignets — here filled with milk chocolate.

(Don’t miss the celery-vodka-lemon cocktail, either.)

▲▲Madison boasts a lively food scene with nearly year-round farmers markets and local, seasonal fare offered at many restaurants.

Heritage Tavern’s best-seller? Maybe the deviled eggs, says chef Dan Fox. Oh, but ... the crispy pork belly with

Breakfast and beyond

tuna and foie gras with pickled mango-pineapple compote!

And that extends to breakfast.

The Wisconsin whitefish, transformed with lobstercoconut curry! And the Alsatian braised heritage pork,

starters, like duck confit hash, roasted salmon frittata … or just

from the farm where

plain muffins. Short Stack Eats serves variations on its name-

Dan Fox walks the talk

sake plus a mean pulled pork on cheese grits to begin the day.

and raises his own pigs.

Now you’re more than ready for the very best reason to visit Madison, and that’s dinner.

Farm-to-table is a subset of the 10 Commandments here, initiated decades before it became common parlance.

Marigold Kitchen is the place to be for not-your-everyday

Ask him about Madison’s current dining picture?

“It’s a big-city food

For more insider info (plus hearty samplings), join a food tour such as the one Otehlia Cassidy offers (madisoneats.net).

From her options (downtown, bike, brunch) we chose to explore the up-and-coming Atwood neighborhood, stopping at Mermaid Café for its bestselling banh mi; One Barrel Brewing

scene in a smaller town.

Company, a new micro-brewery; a taqueria offering a fried-

Lots of really fantastic

cauliflower filling; Lao Laan Xang, showcasing mama’s recipes

restaurants.”

from Laos (including squash curry) and Gail Ambrosius Choco-

Tory Miller agrees: “People are excited

latier, among others.

Good thing you drove and have lots of room in the trunk.

for yummy food from people that know how to make it,” he said.

Carla Waldemar is an award-winning food/travel/arts writer.

She edits the annual Zagat Survey of Twin Cities restaurants and writes food and travel articles for publications around the world.

She lives in Uptown.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 29

Good Living / Housing / By Karen Telleen-Lawton

DIVVYING UP THE STUFF

→→How can families, siblings deal with 50 years’ worth of household goods?

Your next step should be to hold a Great Eeny Meeny Miney event: On the day of the event, realize and remember — and keep remembering — that your relationships with your siblings are more important than stuff.

Q: The event I’ve anticipated and dreaded

and forgive each other for inevitable

for years is upon us in a few months: My folks are still active and relatively astute

moments when old hurts get in the way.

at 85 and 86. Nevertheless, I’m grateful they’ve decided on their own to move to a

Here are some guidelines that can help:

retirement home that’s just being built.

Agree to try to be your best selves

They’ve lived in their house for more than 50 years!

Take an in-person inventory

My siblings and I will help them move, of course, but I’m more concerned about

Local siblings can put together the

divvying up 50 years’ worth of accumulation.

inventory list, perhaps including

There’s everything from pieces of our third grade pottery to a large silk carpet I

photographs. It may not be comprehen-

suspect is quite valuable. How do we do this with three siblings 3,000 miles apart —

sive, but it can help form a common

and still keep speaking to each other?

base of knowledge, especially for

A:

faraway sibs.

You and your siblings are fortunate indeed that your parents are healthy and

for appraisals of any particularly

that they made their own decision. They’re leaving under their own power.

valuable items.

Congratulations to your parents on their upcoming milestone.

The Center for Retirement Research at Boston College says baby boomers will eventually inherit $8 trillion in cash, real estate and a whole lot of curios.

So you’re not alone in your predicament.

The closest siblings can also arrange

Each sibling should familiarize him/ herself with the inventory list.

Ask your folks to give you a general

Since your folks are preparing in this way, they likely already have wills and

idea of items they plan to take with

perhaps a trust. These should be consulted for any special instructions as to the

them. These items can still be available

division of assets. Aside from specific wishes by your parents, the actual choosing

for picking, but the pickers would need

of household items presents challenges that are best solved on the ground.

to understand that they might not take

This situation presents as many opportunities as challenges. If your parents are willing, you might want to spend some time asking them about the provenance of various objects.

They’ll likely appreciate your caring about family heirlooms, keepsakes and mementos. On the same occasion or a subsequent one, you can assemble an inventory list including any special information.

Ebay can be an excellent

Bring siblings in for a ‘pick’ Each sibling should attend the Great Eeny Meeny Miney event in person, if possible. Faraway siblings may send an adult child as an emissary, or can attend by phone, Skype or Facetime.

Your event will likely run more

resource for some ballpark

smoothly if you don’t open the event

values, if you choose to

to spouses or children, unless they are

include values of specific

serving as proxies.

items in the list.

30 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

possession of the items for a long while.

For example, if there are three

Reimbursed Senior Volunteer Positions:

of you, the participants can draw straws for order of pick.

Then proceed in order and then rearrange order: for example, 1, 2, 3; 3, 2, 1; 2, 1, 3 and so forth. items. Document the choices with

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Walk around the house, picking

the inventory list.

Cover one category at a time, such as paintings, rugs/fabrics, furniture, tablescapes (knickknacks), lamps,

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rest of those items can go to charity or a rummage sale. Each sibling could receipt for 1/3 the sale.

For the items that are much more valuable, some options might go like this: One sibling buys the others out; or the siblings can co-own an item — and pass it around every few

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years — or items can be sold and the proceeds split.

Items that each sibling gifted to your parents over the years can be returned apart from the pick.

Compensate the siblings (if appropriate) who do most of the work and/ or pay event expenses. Payback may

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Good Living / Finance / By Skip Johnson accessible for day-to-day bills. Moving to a smaller home will free up some of that wealth and increase cash flow, so it will be available when you no longer receive a steady paycheck.

Cost of living Before deciding on moving to a new location, it’s important to research the cost of living at your destination city or town. Consider more than the price of homes in the area you’re considering.

Look at the cost of gas, dining out and insurance rates. Seniors moving from Minnesota to Florida may face

RELOCATING IN RETIREMENT →→Moving (and downsizing) can help you save cash, but crunch the numbers first

November in Minnesota means Thanksgiving, football and the beginning of what could be another back-breaking snow season.

If you’re like many of my clients, you’re dreaming of escaping another brutal winter by retiring somewhere warm and sunny, like Florida or Arizona.

While flying south is the stuff retirement dreams are made of, it’s my job to make sure moving is a solid financial decision year-round.

There are several factors to consider before relocating in retirement:

Downsizing

higher insurance rates on their cars and property.

Family visits If the grandkids are a car ride away, moving to an area where they’ll have to buy a plane ticket could make a substantial financial difference for both families. In an effort to keep up the family visits, grandparents may feel tempted to help pay for plane, train or bus fares, which could wipe away some of the savings of downsizing.

Moving money Even though moving is a one-time cost, it’s important to budget for all the costs

About half of retirees who move during retirement downsize to smaller homes,

involved. Your costs will likely tally

according to a recent Merrill Lynch study (tinyurl.com/ml-downsize).

up into the thousands, especially if

After the kids have flown the coop, the parents no longer need the space. Downsizing can save you money on utility bills, maintenance costs and taxes. It also can free up time spent on cleaning, lawn care and shoveling.

Freeing up assets

you pay a real estate agent a 6 percent commission and/or hire movers.

Also consider whether you want to remodel or make other upgrades at the new home. Take into account

Many Americans have built up substantial equity in their homes in the 15, 20 or 30

how long it will take you to recoup

years they’ve owned. The problem is that equity isn’t liquid, which means it’s not

these expenses.

32 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

Upsides to upsizing An interesting trend is appearing with retiring baby boomers: Thirty percent are choosing to move into bigger homes after they retire.

Many want more space for friends and family to visit. Others are making room for boomerang kids (grown kids) to move back home with them.

Upsizing can make financial sense if you’re moving to a less expensive area and you can get more for your money. You may also be able to rent out a room to help pay for the mortgage.

Meet with a pro Any retirees considering upsizing should sit down with a financial professional to make sure their needs are covered.

When it comes down to it, relocating in retirement can be a solid financial decision for many people, but not for everyone.

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34 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

cy Walsh

ina Story by T

by Tra / Photos r e m ti r o M

g o p l ay i n t d e m o e a c cu s t ming r r o o f m r e e c p n nd joy in du o — o u s e o i f t i e v C a h in This T w VF Ws, — d n a s l sti v a . b a r s, f e acilitie s f g n i s u r ho at s e ni o

ngaging. Energetic. Intelligent. Funny. Awesome.

Tunes from a different era

Those are just a few of the adjectives used by residents

Indeed, it’s playing music that’s relatable to the demographic

and staff at The Shores of Lake Phalen to describe the dynamic

for which they perform — mainly men and women who came

duo of guitarist Elliot Grater and singer-guitarist Scott Krisher

of age in the 1950s and ’60s — that seems to be the not-so-secret

— also known as The Hi-Tones — after a lively performance that

behind The Hi-Tones' success.

included a sing-along to New York, New York, a name-that-tune contest and a very convincing Willie Nelson impersonation.

“They just have a way with the residents,” said Anna Outcelt, The Shores’ former activities director and current sales director, who’s hired The Hi-Tones five times to perform at the community for seniors in Maplewood.

“Elliot and Scott get everyone smiling and laughing,” she said.

“And they perform music our residents relate to.”

Classic hits like Goodnight, Irene, Bye Bye Love, Over the Rainbow and Blue Suede Shoes — a song for which Krisher, channeling Elvis, dons stick-on sideburns and gold sunglasses — transport audiences back in time.

It also doesn’t hurt that Grater, a 72-year-old retired real estate broker, grew up listening to the songs.

But he’s quick to point out that audiences also relate to Krisher, who, at 54, is much younger than most of the seniors for whom they perform.

⊳⊳ Singer-guitarist-impressionist Scott Krisher, 54, of Lakeville, and guitarist Elliot Grater, 72, of Maplewood, have been performing classic songs and leading sing-alongs at seniorfocused communities for the past three years.

Photos by Tracy Walsh Photography / tracywalshphoto.com

Senior sensitive What makes Grater and Krisher unique, Grater said, is their ability to empathize with their audience.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 35

“I think that people like us because we’re ‘senior sensitive,’” Grater said. “In other words, we take into account the age of our audience, we watch our volume, we keep our performances fun and lively and give the name of each song we play so no one in the audience stresses about trying to remember the artist,” he said.

Audience members no doubt appreciate their understanding, and they respond with gusto when Krisher and Grater, both walking Wikipedias of music trivia, throw out questions such as, “In what decade was New York, New York recorded?” and “Who originally sang Somewhere Over the Rainbow”?

Feeling young again The playful banter the duo engages in seems natural, never forced. When Grater jokes that some song lyrics today “just don’t make any sense,” before performing Little Richard’s ambiguously titled Tutti Frutti, there are claps and nods of approval all around, even if the irony seems lost on some of the audience members.

Krisher — an air traffic controller who started performing as a way to

People like us because we’re ‘senior sensitive.’ We take into account the age of our audience, we watch our volume, we keep our performances fun and lively and give the name of each song we play so no one in the audience stresses about trying to remember the artist.

— Elliot Grater of The Hi-Tones

relieve the stress of his high-pressure job — sings, plays guitar and piano and does impersonations.

He said it’s the interaction he has with audience members that keeps him coming back to the stage.

“Hearing things like, ‘You guys made me feel young again,’ and ‘Thanks for bringing back some long-forgotten memories,’ … it’s why we perform.” Krisher said.

36 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

Watching the pair interact with each other on stage, they seem more like very old friends than a couple guys who just started playing together three years ago.

Hearing things like, ‘You guys made me feel young again,’ and ‘Thanks for bringing back some longforgotten memories,’ … it’s why we perform.

—Scott Krisher of The Hi-Tones

A serendipitous encounter Their collaboration occurred purely by chance.

Grater, a Maplewood resident who was playing in a band called Redeye Flight, found himself scrambling when the band’s lead singer couldn’t get to a scheduled show.

He asked Krisher, who lives in Lakeville, to fill in at the last minute. Krisher, who was singing with a country music band at the time, agreed, and they’ve been playing together ever since.

“It was like magic the way Scott and I clicked together,”

Elvis, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and the like.

The Hi-Tones have a way of getting residents to laugh and even sing along, said Mickie Schutz, life enrichment director at Waterford Manor in Brooklyn Park.

“They make sure their audience is involved in the performance,” Schutz said. “The first time they came here, I think everyone was impressed.”

Thriving in a niche Although both men have performed locally in various rock

Grater said. “Shortly after that first show, we played at

and country bands for years, mostly at bars, outdoor festivals

a senior center ice cream social. We received so many

and VFWs, they agree that retirement and assisted-living

compliments, we decided to keep playing together — and

communities are fast becoming their favorite venues.

the rest is history.”

Grater and Krisher quickly bonded over a shared love for what Grater describes as “golden oldies,” music by

Since their first show together at The Rivers in Burnsville, word of mouth and rave reviews have helped them develop a steady stream of gigs in senior communities around the

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 37

→→Interested in hiring The Hi-Tones?

The Hi-Tones perform at themed parties, including retirement, birthday and anniversary parties, as well as at senior communities. They come prepared with their own appropriately themed costumes. Call 651-484-2228 or write music4seniors@outlook.com to learn more.

Twin Cities, including various locations of Presbyterian Homes and Ebenezer Assisted Living as well as Martin Luther Manor in Bloomington.

“We have them back because they’re awesome,” Outcelt said. “They’re also laid-back, which is rare for musicians.

They arrive a half-hour early and stay a half-hour late. When we have them here, there’s always a big crowd.”

Using music to inspire, heal Krisher and Grater almost never met.

In 2008, Grater was diagnosed with throat cancer, and after months of chemotherapy and radiation, developed neuropathy in his hands and feet, which made moving his fingers painful and playing guitar nearly impossible.

“I was told by my doctors that my playing days were over,” Grater said. “Then my daughter bought me these

Grater said that, although it might sound cliche, he believes music has the power to inspire and heal.

He’s experienced the power firsthand.

“It’s definitely helped me through some hard times,” he

stress balls that I squeezed daily — for two years — and

said. “I’ll never forget the young woman who approached

slowly but surely the pain began to lessen and I was able to

Scott and I with tears in her eyes because her mother sang

pick up a guitar again.”

along with us during our performance. She explained that

Grater isn’t shy when it comes to talking about his illness and often talks about his experiences during performances.

“I share my story to give my fellow seniors and others who have suffered from debilitating diseases the reassurance that these things can be overcome, and to always have hope,” he said.

38 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

her mother had suffered a stroke, and it was the first time she had spoken a word in six years.”

Tina Mortimer is an essayist and a contributing writer for many local publications. She lives in White Bear Lake with her husband and two children. Follow her work at tinamortimer.contently.com.

Housing resources

ADVERTISER LISTINGS

• Memory care • Assisted living • Independent housing • Long term care • New construction Colonial Acres Health Care Center at Covenant Village of Golden Valley••••

Salvation Army Booth Manor•

With Colonial Acres Health Care Center's convenient location right off Highway 100 and Duluth Street, we are the perfect location for all your health care needs. We have Skilled Nursing, Transitional Care/Rehab, Long Term Care, and Memory Care. Also on campus: Residential and Assisted Living options.

5825 St. Croix Ave N Golden Valley 763-732-1422 colonialacreshealthcarecenter.org

Conveniently located across from Loring Park, this 21-story high rise, with 154 one-bedroom apartments is designed for seniors 62 years of age or better, offering many services and amenities. It also combines the convenience of being near downtown with the serenity of the great outdoors.

1421 Yale Place Minneapolis 612-338-6313 salvationarmynorth.org/community/ booth-manor

Augustana Care of Minneapolis••••

South St. Paul HRA•

Our full continuum of care offers everything from independent living to skilled nursing, all on one campus! We offer in-home care, restaurant-style dining, a bank, pharmacy, grocery store, coffee shop, beauty shop, medical clinic, fitness center, and more!

1007 E 14th St, Minneapolis 1510 11th Ave S, Minneapolis 612-238-5555 minneapoliscampus.org

CommonBond Communities••

CommonBond builds stable homes, strong futures, and vibrant communities. As the largest nonprofit provider of affordable homes in the Upper Midwest, CommonBond has been building and sustaining homes with services to families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities since 1971.

1080 Montreal Ave St. Paul 651-291-1750 commonbond.org/findhousing

Como by the Lake Senior Apartments• Exceptional senior living at Como by the Lake Senior Apartments and community. Great location that is just across from beautiful Como Park. Heated underground parking and two elevators. Small pets are always welcome.

901 E Como Blvd St. Paul 651-489-3392 comobythelake.com

Jones-Harrison••

Located on the shores of Cedar Lake in Minneapolis, Jones-Harrison is a nonprofit organization offering 24-hour skilled nursing care, assisted living apartments, and comprehensive rehabilitation services. We're known for our innovative memory-loss programs and arthritis care, which includes warm water therapy and a full-service fitness center.

3700 Cedar Lake Ave Minneapolis 612-920-2030 jones-harrison.org

South St. Paul HRA manages one-bedroom apartments for ages 50 and over, which are designated for low to moderate-income persons.

Rent is based on income. The building amenities include all utilities paid, an on-site caretaker, security building, after hours answering service, elevators, community room, resident activities & services, and laundry facilities. Call today to set up an appointment.

125 3rd Ave N South St. Paul 651-554-3270 ssphra.org

St. Benedict’s Senior Community•••

St. Benedict’s Senior Community is a leader in offering a wide range of housing options for those 62 and better. Whether speaking about the campus in St. Cloud, Monticello or Sartell, our philosophy remains the same; offer independence and choices for vital aging.

Sartell: Chateau Waters Opening Summer 2016 Showroom/Sales Office 320-654-2352 chateauwaters.com St. Cloud Senior Housing: 1810 Minnesota Blvd SE St. Cloud, MN 56304-2416 320-203-2747 centracare.com Monticello Senior Housing: 1301 East 7th St Monticello, MN 55362 763-295-4051 centracare.com

St. Paul Public Housing Agency••

The Congregate Housing Services Program of the St. Paul Public Housing Agency provides services to assist persons with disabilities, mental health issues, brain injury, and challenges of aging to live independently in their homes.

Edgerton, Iowa, Montreal, Ravoux & Valley High Rises St. Paul 651-292-6035 stpha.org

The Cavanagh 55+ Living••

YOUR NEXT HOME — YOUR BEST HOME. Join us at The Cavanagh, a brand-new, independent living, 55+ senior community in Crystal, MN. Entertain family and friends, stay connected with the active life you love, and enjoy the convenience of maintenance-free living. Rents begin at only $892* per month. *Income restrictions apply.

5401 51st Ave N Crystal 763-452-3188 the-cavanagh.com

The Legends at Silver Lake Village••

A PLACE TO CALL YOUR OWN. Join us at The Legends, our brand-new, 55+ independent living senior community in St. Anthony, MN. Entertain family and friends, stay connected with the active life you love, and enjoy the convenience of maintenance-free living. Rents begin at only $892* per month. *Income restrictions apply.

2500 38th Ave NE Saint Anthony 612-789-9937 legends-silver-lake.com

Walker Methodist•••••

Walker Methodist specializes in lifestyle, housing, and healthcare services for older adults. We own, operate, and manage housing communities, provide rehabilitation services, and operate leading sub-acute transitional care centers that help people recover from hospitalizations or surgeries so they can return home.

Anoka, Lakeville, Maplewood, Minneapolis, St. Anthony, & West St. Paul 612-827-5931 walkermethodist.org

Waters Senior Living, The••••

When people come to live at The Waters, they thrive. Our innovative personal well-being services, developed with the University of Minnesota’s Center for Spirituality and Healing, empowers residents to enjoy life in better health.

Our commitment to warmth and hospitality helps them grow vibrant new social connections and reinvigorate their sense of purpose. It’s a people-centered approach, backed by 24/7 RN presence, we call The Waters Way. The Waters of Plymouth: 763-270-5220 The Waters of Edina: 952-322-7500 The Waters on 50th: 612-200-9552 The Waters of Oakdale: 651-393-5260 The Waters on Mayowood: 507-252-2910 The Waters of Highland Park: 651-363-3040 The Waters of White Bear Lake: opening Summer 2016 The Waters of Excelsior: opening Fall 2016 Corporate Office: 952-358-5100 thewatersseniorliving.com

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 39

A LIFETIME OF CARING

Opening Mid November 2015 Assisted Living & Memory Care Community

From the director to our aides, we strive each day to create a warm and caring environment where old friendships are renewed and new ones are created.

Special Features

Included in Your Rent • • • • •

Personal pendant call system 24 hour access to staff Daily OK checks Health and wellness programs 3 meals per day

• Individually controlled heat and air conditioning • Sewer, water and trash pick-up • Complimentary laundry facilities

Outdoor patio Library Public computer for internet access Community room Fitness center Card room

7475 Country Club Drive, Golden Valley 651-706-3591

MeadowRidgeSeniorLiving.com

Senior-living

Surprises

By Grace Jacobs

Housekeeping Services

→→Know what to look for in a senior-housing facility.

And prepare to leave your preconceptions of old-folks homes behind.

Independence

Fun Activities Social Atmosphere

Medical Help

M

Good Food

y mother’s concept of

in an independent-living apartment in a

The stove is electric — no worry about

a successful woman

senior building.

leaving the gas on.

was one who was totally independent,

What a contrast I’ve found between

There’s room for a table with two

my pre-conceptions — of merely existing

chairs. I can whip up a meal, bake a pie or

in control of all facets of her life — able to

confined to a bed in a small shared room

stock up on snacks.

make her own decisions and financially

with little space to turn around — and

secure enough to have choices.

actually being in my spacious indepen-

cooking or would like some company

dent-living apartment.

when enjoying my meal, it’s just an

Academic achievements, financial success, social standing, professional

My neighbors and I aren’t reliant on

On those days when we don’t feel like

elevator ride down to the dining room

advancement — none could hold a candle

aides to push our wheelchairs around or

where a restaurant-like atmosphere

to being independent.

to bathe us. Someday we may need help

prevails.

Mother dreaded looking forward to

with the activities of daily living, but

At noon and in the evenings we have

that time in life when she would have to

right now we’re independent and living

two choices of entrees, which rotate on

admit to needing help and would go into

on our own terms.

a five-week cycle. The week’s choices

senior living. Nothing could be worse than losing one’s independence. She was

Here are some things to look for when

are posted on Monday morning. You

choosing a senior housing facility:

should see the crowd that turns up on

⊲⊲FOOD

prime rib day.

Today I have the largest and most modern

socialize at the noon meal and take a box

best achieve that goal wasn’t in my

kitchen I’ve ever had. It came equipped

of leftovers back to the apartment for

house nor in an apartment in town, but

with a stove, microwave and refrigerator.

their evening meal.

proud that she’d raised me to be truly independent.

Little did I know that the place I would

Some residents with small appetites

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 41

⊲⊲SAFETY

the plumber brought a helper. While one

I’ve never felt safer than I do in my senior

engaged her in conversation, the other

sunroom, where you can enjoy an after-

apartment. There are no young people

cleaned out all the tools and valuables

noon chat.

on their own for the first time with their

from her basement. I’m free from fear of

⊲⊲TRANSPORTATION

loud parties. No drunk workers stum-

strangers coming in to do repairs.

I still have my car, which is kept in the

racing down the corridors, knocking

elevator. When it was down, handi-

heated garage. Our garage has a fully

over everything that’s in the way.

capped residents were stuck on their

Afternoon coffee and cookies provide us an incentive to join the group in the

equipped bay where I can wash my car

bling to the wrong door. No wild children

My old apartment building had one

There are no druggies desperate

floor. My senior building has two eleva-

or just hose off the excess salt from

to steal something they can hock to

tors. While we may have to wait longer

winter driving. When I can no longer

support their habits.

for a ride down from fourth floor, we

drive, I’ll be able to take the weekly

My neighbors respect my space and

know there’s an alternate ride available.

bus or Metro Mobility shuttle to the

right to privacy. When my snowbird

grocery store.

neighbors took off for Arizona, they had

staff climbed the stairs and brought up

no need for a house sitter.

breakfast food for those who would've

Bus rides are offered to other destinations and events. Some residents

Grab bars are near the toilet and in

Once, when the region lost electricity,

eaten in the dining room. They checked

attend their former neighborhood

the shower. My toilet has extra grab

to make sure we weren’t in need.

churches with help from volunteers.

bars, which were essential when I

⊲⊲CONNECTEDNESS

The hardest trips to arrange for are those to the doctor. It’s almost impossible to estimate how much time to allow for a visit and when to plan a

broke my hip.

⊲⊲MAINTENANCE

We have call buttons to wear around our necks, a very wise idea. A neighbor hung

The facility maintains the fire alarms,

hers on the bedpost. When she got up in

return trip. I have great respect for

smoke detectors, elevators and more.

the middle of the night, she fell on the

those relatives who appreciate this fact

Need a light bulb changed? Don’t climb

way to the bathroom. Unable to go back

and come to take their loved ones to

that ladder, let maintenance do it.

to her bed or to reach the call button in

the doctor.

Toilet overflow? Press your call button

the bathroom, she lay there for hours.

⊲⊲HOUSEKEEPING

and help will come. Leaky faucet? Put

In a house or apartment, that might

When we first came to our independent-living unit, we used the same housekeeping service we had had before to help us get settled and everything put away.

Some of our neighbors do all their own cleaning. Since the housekeeping service offered by the facility doesn’t have a twohour minimum, I can contract to have them do just what I want.

One gentleman just has his bathroom cleaned by the experts. Housekeeping helps save me time and energy so I can better enjoy the social activities.

42 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

in a request for a repair.

When my mother was in her home,

have been the end.

But we have a morning “OK” check.

When she heard the knock on the

Some card games have been indepen-

door, she called for help. Soon she was

dently established. The participants are

off to the hospital. Upon returning,

willing to help you learn a new game.

she gave us all a lecture on keeping

Don’t forget: Mealtimes are an oppor-

nothing’s broken. Even two aides cannot help a very obese person up.

The responsibility to have ready any and all information the paramedics may

our call buttons where they could be

tunity to socialize. While some couples

need is fully mine. A medical informa-

reached at all times.

prefer a table for two, many share larger

tion sheet listing my medications and

tables with other residents. The breakfast

conditions, contact numbers and more

buffet provides an opportunity for us to

is marked ICE (in case of emergency)

have our morning libations together.

and posted on my refrigerator.

I keep my cell phone handy.

⊲⊲

THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Many new residents find old friends already here. There’s a group who were neighbors at Fox Ridge Estates and another from Realife. Three elementary-school classmates from

If a person has a healthcare directive

⊲⊲FACILITIES, AMENITIES

and/or a “do not resuscitate” order, a

I may entertain guests in my apartment

copy of each should be attached. Your

or in one of the available common areas.

ambulance may be diverted to a hospital

Want to have a family party? No

that doesn’t have your records.

St Matthew’s were reunited here. For

need to seek out and pay for a hall. I can

those of us from farther away, it’s easy

reserve the common room, which has a

to form new and interesting friendships

kitchen. You just have to keep the chil-

as activities and meals draw us out into

dren from wandering away and leave it

only my apartment with both heat and

the community. It doesn’t take long to

clean. Our community includes a beauty

electricity, but also that free repair man,

belong to our new neighborhood.

parlor and fitness center, too.

the snow removal and mowing the lawn,

⊲⊲ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

⊲⊲MY JOBS

an entertainment budget covering the

sharper and drive away depression. In

responsibilities for my health and well

our building, we have a variety of options

being. This includes making and getting to

laundry soap and housekeeping,

available and you don’t need to go out into

all doctor appointments. The purchase and

including all cleaning supplies.

the cold or drive at night to participate.

dispensing of my medications is one of the

The activities director provides exercise

most important tasks I do for myself.

Socialization will keep your mind

programs, bingo, parties, trips to the stores, casino and much more.

We have a potluck luncheon once in

As an independent resident, I retain

Residents may have family members who help in various ways. Others employ home health aides from community

⊲⊲COSTS

Yes, the rent’s higher, but it includes not

parties and happy hours, and free busing to the store.

A press of a button provides my

Moving into senior housing was a blessing for me. I’m glad that I came early enough so that I was able to make my own downsizing decisions.

I was able to choose the facility where

a while. Also groups of residents with

agencies to help with specific tasks — house-

the community life best fits my lifestyle

similar interests have found one another

keeping, cooking, laundry, showers and

and my husband’s probable future needs

and established their own regular card

more.

for memory care.

games, discussion groups and more.

Each resident can choose what to participate in. I like the chair exercises,

⊲⊲IF I FALL

Unless I’m found unconscious after

ring toss, horseshoes, parties and movies.

a fall, the decision to call 911 is mine.

My husband likes bingo, newspaper

Different facilities have different poli-

chat, happy hour and the wine-and-

cies on assisting persons who have

cheese tasting events. My neighbor goes

fallen. These policies consider the safety

to the religious services, knitting and

of the person and of the aides. One

crocheting (and the parties).

shouldn’t be helped up until it’s certain

I’m independent, safe and very active.

I can now truly say, “I am independent and I am living.”

Grace Jacobs is an 84-year-old resident of Southview Senior Living in West St. Paul, which also offers assisted living and memory care. Jacobs is a professor emerita at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington.

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 43

November Can’t-Miss Calendar

The Church Basement Ladies

→→Troupe America celebrates the 10year anniversary of the original musical comedy that follows four distinct characters around a Minnesota churchbasement kitchen as they manage the food — and the problems — that arise.

When: Through Nov. 15 Cost: $28–39 Where: Plymouth Playhouse, Plymouth Info: plymouthplayhouse.com or 763-553-1600

Nov. 3–Jan. 10 Photo by Joan Marcus

Nov. 18–29

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

→→See the Tony- and Grammy-winning Broadway hit about the early life and career of the legendary and groundbreaking singer/songwriter.

When: Nov. 18–29 Where: Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $39–$179 Info: hennepintheatretrust.org, beautifulonbroadway.com

Ongoing

Humpback Whales →→See breathtaking footage of humpback whales — including a mother humpback whale and her calf — on a 90-foot domed Omnitheater screen. Learn about the humpback’s 10,000-mile annual migration and recovery from near extinction. Observe humpback behaviors up-close and hear their haunting, beautiful songs, documented by scientists in all the world’s oceans.

When: Showing through Jan. 7 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Film tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for ages 4 to 12 and seniors age 60 and older. Combination galleryOmnitheater tickets are also available.

The first and third Tuesdays of the month are senior days at the museum with discounted pricing that includes light refreshments.

Info: smm.org 44 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

The Wizard of Oz →→The songs, the costumes, the wonder of it all come together in this all-ages production of the beloved L. Frank Baum story, featuring a cast of munchkins, monkeys and four friends (Toto, too) in the pursuit of courage, a brain, a heart and a home.

When: Nov. 3–Jan. 10 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $10.

Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400

Holiday fun with the Hennepin Theater Trust

Nov. 5–14

→→Downtown Minneapolis’ cultural district will feature a wide range of holiday events this season. November highlights include the Brian Setzer Orchestra's Christmas Rocks! and the return of A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol, the Minnesota spoof of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

December features include the soulful and Emmy-winning Blenders; perennially popular pianist Lorie Line; All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914, an ode to peace; and Cirque Dreams Holidaze, a gravity-defying spectacle. Other December offerings include The Great Russian Nutcracker, Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy and the Blue Man Group.

→→Rock star Conrad Birdie is a hit.

Women love him, men want to be him and teenage girls around the country scream at the mere mention of his name. But when the Army drafts Birdie, manager Albert Peterson sees his meal ticket preparing to fly the coop.

Desperate for a publicity stunt to help them survive Birdie’s departure, Albert hatches a plan to send him to smalltown America to plant his goodbye kiss on one lucky fan. His selection of a super-fan from Sweet Apple, Ohio, sends the wholesome enclave into chaos.

When: November–December Where: Orpheum, State, Pantages and New Century theaters, Minneapolis Cost: Various Info: hennepintheatretrust.org

Bye Bye Birdie!

When: 7 p.m. Nov. 5–7, 13–14 and 2 p.m. on Nov. 7 and 14 Where: North Theatre, North St. Paul Cost: $6 in advance, or $7 for students and seniors, and $9 for adults at the door Info: northdrama.org

Nov. 6–Feb. 20

SANDBERG FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES

The Wedding Singer

Our Family Serving Yours Since 1942

→→This hit romantic comedy — based on the 1998 Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore film — celebrates the songs of the 1980s, pop culture references and, of course, big hair.

JAMES G. ROBAN Attorney at Law

Luncheon Options

When: Nov. 6–Feb. 20 Where: Old Log Theatre, Excelsior Cost: $20–$40 Info: oldlog.com

261 Ruth Street (651) 738-2102

Remodeled and Spacious (chapel seating 200) 2593 E. 7th Ave., North St. Paul, MN 55109

651-777-2600

Nov. 6

sandbergfuneralhome.com

OVALumination Lighting Ceremony →→More than 100 arborvitae and evergreen trees are decorated with holiday lights to illuminate the Guidant John Rose MN OVAL, the largest sheet of refrigerated ice in North America.

Knitteapolis will be yarnbombing the front of the OVAL with colorfully knit yarn, enhancing the event’s holiday cheer with an unexpected twist.

WILLS, ESTATE PLANNING

Sandberg Funeral GA 0513 12.indd 1

Will: $40 PoWer of Attorney: $20 HeAltH CAre DireCtive: $70

4/9/13 Roban, 4:16 PMJames GA 0513 12.indd 1

3/28/13 3:23 PM

When: 6:30 p.m. Nov. 6 Where: Guidant John Rose MN OVAL, Roseville Cost: FREE to view, $5.50 to skate, $4 for skate rentals Info: visitroseville.com/events/ OVALumination

Nov. 7

Daisy Camp →→Getting divorced? Get educated and empowered with a day of lectures and question-and-answer sessions with local legal, financial, real-estate and mentalhealth professionals, including attorneys trained in collaborative law.

When: Nov. 7 Where: 3300 Edinborough Way, Suite 550, Edina Cost: $60 (includes refreshments and lunch); scholarships are available.

Info: daisycamp.org

Nov. 8

Saint Martin’s Day →→Join in a Saint Martin’s Day celebration, courtesy of Sundays at Landmark, a series of cultural and art events designed to entertain, enrich and educate an all-ages audience, including heritage festivals, musical performances and holiday celebrations running through May. When: 4 p.m. Nov. 8 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org/programs/ sundays.htm

* Please note: The Minnesota Orchestra does not perform on this program

Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 45

South St. Paul HRA • 50+ Community • Income Based Rent • All Utilities Paid • Newly Remodeled • Elevators • Controlled Entries • On Site Caretaker Call for an appointment 651-554-3270

Can’t-Miss Calendar Ongoing

Suburbia

→→Discover the sometimes quirky, always fascinating history of the seemingly commonplace suburban environments of Minnesota, including cars, cul-de-sacs, ranch houses, redlining, malls and millennials.

I BUY HOUSES

South St Paul HRA GA 1015 12.indd 1

9/8/15 9:36 AM

• Cash Paid For Your Home

When: Through March 20 Where: Minnesota History Center, St. Paul Cost: $10–$12, free Tuesdays from 5–8 p.m.

Info: minnesotahistorycenter.org

• Any Condition — I Love Repairs • “As-Is” Sale • My Best Price 1st • Local Buyer

Nov. 14

• Fast, Friendly Service

Nordic Christmas Kick-Off Family Day

• 15 Years Buying Experience • References Available

→→Be the first to see the historic Turnblad Mansion decorated for call Eric at 612-801-3202 the holidays — and discover Nordic Broker traditions that make Sweden a magical place in winter. Activities will include gingerbread ornament making, troll Sensible Investments GA 0115 1 11/26/14 3:36 PM Stay in the12.indd home you love! storytelling, traditional slojd/crafts, tomte and troll bingo and a Great Don’t let stairs keep you from enjoying Tomte/Troll Hunt for kids of all ages your entire home! throughout the mansion.

For more information

When: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 14 Where: American Institute, Minneapolis Cost: FREE with museum admission ($9 for adults, $7 for ages 62 and older, $5 for ages 6–18, free for ages 5 and younger) Info: asimn.org

Stair Lifts Residential Elevators Wheelchair Lifts

• Sales & Service • Large Selection • Licensed Techs

Blaine 763-786-2780

Bloomington 952-253-2000

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Nov. 16

Free Dance Night

→→All ages are invited for 45 minutes 7/29/15 1:40 PMof free professional dance instruction, Booth Manor followed by two hours of dancing to Residence a live band. Salsa del Sol, a nineFor Seniors 62+ piece orchestra featuring some of the Twin Cities’ top Latin musicians, will • 1 Bedrooms perform various styles of dance music • Based on Income from the Spanish-speaking regions of • Utilities Included the Caribbean. Even those who don’t • Service Coordinator wish to dance can come to enjoy the • Resident Activities & Programs entertainment. Green Mill will host • Community Room concessions with pizza and beer, wine • Smoke-Free Building and other beverages available for purchase.

1421 Yale Place, Mpls

612-338-6313

46 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age Booth Manor GA 0114 12.indd 1

12/6/13 10:14 AM

When: 6:15–9 p.m. Nov. 16

Where: Union Depot, downtown St. Paul Cost: FREE admission Info: uniondepot.org

Nov. 17

Creating Moments of Joy →→Geared toward families (ages 10 and older), friends and volunteers helping those affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia, this talk by author Jolene Brackey looks beyond the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and focuses on how to create moments of joy throughout the day.

When: 6–7:30 p.m. Nov. 17 Where: Minnesota History Center, St. Paul Cost: $10 Info: rakhma.org

Nov. 18–Jan. 17

Christmas My Way: A Sinatra Holiday Bash →→Four singers pay tribute to the legendary crooner in a holiday-style sequel to the highly successful My Way production. Thirty songs will take audiences from Frank Sinatra’s early years in New York during the 1940s swing era, to the casinos of Las Vegas with the Rat Pack in the 1960s and, finally, to his performances in the 1990s as Chairman of the Board.

When: Nov. 18–Jan. 17 Where: Plymouth Playhouse, Plymouth Cost: $28–$39 Info: plymouthplayhouse.com

Nov. 20 and Dec. 18

Red House Live →→The fifth season of this Landmark Center series caters to fans of folk, Americana, blues and country music with concerts. Monthly performances, hosted by Larry Englund from KFAI Radio, will be preceded by a cocktail hour including complimentary refreshments from Great Waters Brewing Company, plus a cash bar.

When: 8 p.m. Nov. 20 (The Cactus Blossoms) and Dec. 18 (Davina and the Vagabonds).

Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door Info: landmarkcenter.org/redhouse.html

SMOKERS who want to try new cigarettes that may or may not lead to reduced smoking are wanted for a research study. This is NOT a treatment or smoking cessation study.

COMPENSATION WILL BE PROVIDED. Call: Tobacco Research Programs at 612-624-4913 for more information.

Tobacco Research Programs MNP 0515 H6.indd 3

4/14/15 11:17 AM

Nov. 21

The World Jubilee →→Shop a fair-trade market for local and international handcrafted goods, including cards, pottery, baskets, toys, jewelry, carvings, textiles, needlework, ornaments and clothing for adults and children. Sales directly benefit the artists.

When: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 21 Where: Wooddale Church, Eden Prairie Cost: FREE admission Info: theworldjubilee.org

Nov. 24–Jan. 1

Holiday Lights in the Park →→View more than 60 holiday light sculptures and animated displays as you drive through St. Paul’s Phalen Park.

Organized by the St. Paul chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association and the St. Paul Police Foundation, the event will benefit the foundation and the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy.

When: 5:30–10 p.m. Nov. 24–Jan. 1 Where: 1615 Phalen Drive E., St. Paul Cost: $10 per car Info: lightsinthepark.org

Dec. 4–13

Union Depot Holidays →→Celebrate the holiday season with a European Christmas Market, a tree-lighting ceremony, live music with 1950s-inspired The Holy Rocka Rollaz, a bake sale, fireworks, a North Pole Express train and a series of free holiday movie nights.

When: Dec. 4–13 Where: Union Depot, downtown St. Paul Cost: Most events are FREE. Info: uniondepot.org/holiday Minnesota Good Age / November 2015 / 47

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Cryptogram

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Break the code to reveal a quote from a famous person.

Each letter represents another letter.

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Source: Sarah Ban Breathnach Clue: K = E

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Complete the following three six-letter words using each given letter once.

, B M B K X F ,

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G P A K .

D W

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Word Scramble

L M R

X K K Y .

___ ___ M ___ R Y ___ ___ X ___ R Y C ___ ___ ___ R Y A

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1. Fallingwater

G M B K

2. His second-best bed 3. Tara

TRIVIA

Answers 48 / November 2015 / Minnesota Good Age

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WORD SCRAMBLE

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CROSSWORD

Answers

CRYTPOGRAM

Crossword

SPONSORED BY MINNESOTA COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN 2 Typically 18-inch-long baseball collectibles

Across 1 Rifle filler 5 Campus bigwigs 10 Ending for brides, chamber or milk 14 Teller of fibs 15 Humanlike machine of sci-fi 16 Edit menu option 17 Presidency’s last days, e.g.

19 ’90s TV title toon teen 20 Attaches with string 21 Prefix with deed or lead 23 Quaint lodging 24 Six-pack muscles 25 Pre-cable reception aid 29 Stop for a moment 31 Abolish 32 Leading the field 33 Three: Pref.

34 Rapper __ Kim 35 PC key near Ctrl 36 Anonymous writer, maybe, and a hint to the devotee hidden in 17-, 25-, 50- and 60-Across

41 Kit__: candy bar 42 “Bossypants” memoirist Tina 43 “__ you ready?”

44 Fire-setting crime 47 Boxing count 48 Gets a glimpse of 50 Commentator dissecting chips and putts 53 Bro or sis 54 Expected landing hr.

55 Wobbly walker 56 Green film on bronze 58 Clear liquors 60 Usual sitcom length (including ads) 63 First chip in a pot 64 “In other words ... ” 65 Cabinet dept. concerned with nukes 66 Leaning Tower city 67 Stadium levels 68 __ buco: veal dish

Down 1 Brewpub fixture

3 Double-checked 4 Gold medals, to Spaniards 5 Pipe clog dissolver 6 Scads of centuries 7 Prez on a penny 8 Painter Rockwell 9 A red wine one is hard to get out 10 Stick-in-the-__ 11 Consecrate using oil 12 “Beats me” 13 Steal a pup 18 Links warning 22 Vodka order, familiarly 26 Memorial column, for short 27 Pita filling 28 Catch in a sting 30 Bored with 34 Permit 35 “Trainwreck” actress/screenwriter Schumer 37 Attacked on foot 38 Reject as false 39 Causes of disappearing beaches 40 Entourages 44 Issue in May-December romances 45 Spiral pasta 46 Slopes 47 Japanese floor mat 48 Laurel of Laurel and Hardy 49 “Handmade fresh all day” pizza chain 51 Like three Cy Young games 52 Bridge measures 57 “The Cosby Show” son 59 Baltic or Aegean 61 Sara whom “nobody doesn’t like” 62 At a distance

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6/17/15 9:52 AM

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