zest Oct 2011

ZesT

50+ Living

FREE! October 2011

!

PINK

Power of

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Art heals

Kathy Wnoroski benefits from creative expression

Ahoy there, shipmates

Navy veterans reunite

Autumn majesty

10 fall color tours to take your breath away

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Contents

ZesT

24

16

3

Welcome: The legend of Stingy Jack

6

Travel: Winter getaways

8

SPECIAL FOCUS: Breast Cancer Awareness

10

Cover Story: The healing power of art

14

Medicare Answers: Uncovering drug restrictions

16

Feature Story: Ahoy there, shipmates Veterans from the U.S.S. Meeker County reunite

20

Money: Ask for your discount

22

Wellness: Healthy lifestyle reduces risk of breast cancer recurrence

24

Out and About: Autumn majesty 10 fall color tours to take your breath away

26

Comfort Foods: Pumpkin, spice and everything nice

28

Puzzles

30

Zest Classifieds

ZesT P U B L I S H E D BY Litchfield Independent Review PO Box 921 Litchfield, MN 55355 (320) 693-3266

Hutchinson Leader 36 Washington Ave. W. Hutchinson, MN 55350 (320) 587-5000

P R I N T E D BY Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 (320) 587-2062

NEWS Katie Winter, reporter winter@independentreview.net or winter@hutchinsonleader.com (320) 693-3266 or (320) 234-4172

A D V E RT I S I N G Shari Forsman, advertising representative sales@crowriverpress.com (320) 234-4171 N02043 Z

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October 2011 Vol. 2 No.8 zestforlife.mn

ZEST / October 2011 3

Welcome

The legend of Stingy Jack

The Jack o’ lantern was originally used to ward off evil spirits, according to legend.

The jack-o’-lantern is the iconic symbol of Halloween. It transforms the humble and homely pumpkin into a fluorescent and frightful character. The great pumpkin carving tradition is commonplace nowadays in America, but did you know, that the custom actually began centuries ago in Ireland. The history of the jack-o’-lantern is an eerie tale of artifice and revenge.

The old Irish myth begins with a man nicknamed Stingy Jack. One night Stingy Jack asked the devil to go out and have a few drinks with him. Stingy Jack did not want to pay for the devil’s drinks, so they made a deal.

The devil would turn himself into a coin that Stingy Jack would use to buy the drinks.

After the devil turned himself into the coin, Stingy Jack decided he would keep the coin for himself. He placed the coin in his pocket where it rested against a silver cross. It prevented the devil from reverting to his original form.

Eventually, Jack freed the devil on one condition: He would not pester Jack for one year and if Jack died, he would not take his soul.

A year later, Jack tricked the devil into climbing a tree to take some fruit. Once in the tree, Jack carved a cross onto it so the devil could not get down.

Again, Jack made a deal with him. This time the deal was that the devil had to leave him alone for 10 years.

Not long after the second deal was made, Jack died.

However, due to his unsavory past and sinful ways, he was denied admission into heaven. And true to his word, the devil refused to claim Jack’s soul. Instead, in an act of spite, the devil sent Jack away with only a coal to light his path.

The legend states, Jack placed the coal into one of his hollowed-out turnips and has been roaming the earth ever since.

4 ZEST / October 2011

Sometime after his death, farmers and townspeople began seeing the eerie flame of “Jack of the Lantern” wandering in the dark. To ward off his evil spirit, people carve faces into turnips, potatoes and pumpkins, place inside a lit candle, and leave them on front porches.

October also is the month to recognize the courage and determination of those fighting breast cancer. Inside this issue of Zest, read about the ways art has helped Kathy Wnoroski and others fight the disease.

Also inside is the story of how U.S. Navy veterans, a tea set and Meeker County reunited after more than 50 years.

Finally, get out and experience the beautiful colors of fall that are in bloom across the state with our guide to Minnesota’s most colorful areas.

I welcome your feedback and ideas.

You can e-mail me at winter@hutchinsonleader.com or send a letter to Hutchinson Leader, 36 Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson, MN 55350 or Litchfield Independent Review 217 N. Sibley, Litchfield, MN 55355.

All the best!

Katie Winter

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ZEST / October 2011 5

Travel

Winter getaways Beat cabin fever with trips to Texas, Chicago and Branson

Enjoy a boat ride along the scenic river walk in San Antonio this February.

The grand South Shore Country Club in Chicago will be a sight see this Christmas.

• The Lone Star State

ration of elegant, landmark homes. After that are stops at the South Shore Country Club, the Prairie Avenue Historic District and the Glessner House Mansion.

• Christmas in Chicago Chicago is an exciting city anytime of the year, but at Christmas time it is dazzling. See the bright lights of the big city twinkle green and red during a four-day motorcoach tour with Rustad Tours. The trip sets off on Dec. 9 and returns Dec. 12. It ranges in price from $565 to $750 and includes: Round-trip transportation, hotel accommodations, some meals, all admissions to attractions, baggage handling, all taxes and tips and the service of a tour director.

About the tour: The first day in Chicago is an explo-

6 ZEST / October 2011

R I L E Y ’S

Travel Easy Tours Branson Christmas Oct. 31 – Nov. 4 Daniel O’Donnell, Hollywood Christmas Spectacular, Pierce Arrow, Dixie Stampede, and the Brett Family

Branson Holiday Nov. 6 – 10

Daniel O’Donnell, SIX, Twelve Irish Tenors, Showboat Branson Belle, and the Brett Family

Branson Lights Nov. 19 – 23

Hamner Barber Variety Show, A Christmas Snow, Daniel O’Donnell, The Haygoods, and the Brett Family

Nashville Christmas Dec. 8 – 13

Gateway Arch, “Our Lady of the Snows” Shrine, two nights at the Opryland Hotel, Grand Ole Opry, Nashville city tour, Radio City Rockettes, General Jackson Dinner Cruise, and Holiday Arts and Crafts show.

Brochures available for tours of

Florida, Texas and Arizona.

Escape winter’s grasp and embrace warm, sunny locales in 2012!

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Everything is bigger in Texas and Riley’s Travel Easy Tours wants you to be engulfed in the Lone Star State.

The travel company welcomes you aboard its 14-day journey to Texas. The tour begins on Feb. 10 and returns Feb. 24. It ranges in price from $1,810 to $2,770. Price includes: Motorcoach transportation, overnight accommodations, meals listed, attractions, baggage handling, all taxes and service charges, and a driver and tour director.

About the tour: The Texas expedition begins in the city of Dallas with a tour of the Sixth Floor Museum, which chronicles the life and death of President Kennedy, a shopping trip and a guided tour of the city.

Onward next to San Antonio, with stops at the former home of Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson and the Museum of the Pacific War along the way. In San Antonio, is a tour of the Alamo and a boat tour of the San Antonio River.

The next four days will be spent in McAllen on the southernmost tip of Texas. Here you will visit beaches, orchards, museums and any friends wintering in the area.

Tours of Corpus Christi and Galveston are next on the agenda before a stop at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. A dinner cruise in Hot Springs, Ark begins the trek home as the motorcoach takes the scenic route through the Ozarks.

Travel Lunch will be at the Union League Club, a private club established in 1879 by the city’s elite business men. The club has an exciting collection of holiday decorations and Great American Art Collection. Next is the Lincoln Park Conservatory to view its holiday flowers before a little free time at Water Tower Place for some Christmas shopping.

The festivities continue that evening with a meal at Pompei Restaurant, a favorite Italian restaurant among the locals. This followed by attending the Donny & Marie – Christmas in Chicago show. The show includes your favorite holiday hits and legendary production numbers.

Day 2 will be spent in Dupage County, where tours of McDonalds Hamburger University and Cantigny Park & the Robert McCormick Mansion are scheduled. Lunch will be at the Ginkgo Café inside the famous Morton Arboretum. Before ending the day, is a trip to the Billy Graham Center.

• Christmas in Branson Southwest Tour and Travel of Willmar is offering you a special treat this coming holiday season. Join them for Christmas in Branson. This exciting six-day trip captures the warmth and cheer of the holidays with singing, dancing and twinkling lights. The trip runs at four different times, Nov. 7-Nov. 12, Nov. 11-Nov. 16, Nov. 14-Nov. 19 and Nov. 28-Dec. 3. It ranges in price from $705 to $1,085 and includes: Round-trip transportation, hotel accommodations, some meals, admissions to attractions, baggage

Catch The Duttons live variety show in Branson. handling and the service of a tour director.

About the tour: The week in Branson showcases the beauty of the Ozark Mountain Region and its entertainment. The dates you choose to visit Branson determine which shows you will see. The days will be filled with a mix of special holiday performances by the top entertainers. Some of the musical highlights include Daniel O’Donnell, 12 Irish Tenors, Rankin Brothers, The Duttons, Andy Williams, Mikey Gilley and Tony Orlando.

Other sightseeing opportunities are the Fantastic Cavern, the Precious Moments Chapel, Kansas City Christmas lights and the WWI Museum of Kansas City.

Rustad Tours 2011 Tour Schedule 1308 SE 7th St., Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-6230 or 1-800-858-8687 www.willmarbus.com • mikek@willmarbus.com

Pacific Northwest ................................September 3-19 New York City.......................................September 6-15 Door County .....................................September 22-25

Extended Tours

New England States ...............September 25-October 8

Christmas In Branson ..............

Minot Hostfest 1 ................................September 27-30

November 3-8, November 7-12, November 11-16, November14-19, Nov. 28-Dec. 3

Smoky Mountains...................................October 15-22

Lights Before Christmas ...............................December 7-9

Christmas in Chicago ............................December 9-12

Minot Hostfest II ...................September 29-October 2

Christmas Branson 1.............................November 7-12 Christmas Branson 2 ............November 28-December 3 Christmas Around The World in Omaha.Nov. 28-Dec. 1

Las Vegas & Western Nat’l Parks ............January 14-20 Texas .....................................................................February 3-12

2011 MN Twins Games

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September 22 ...........Seattle 208 N 12th St. Box 346 Kerkhoven MN 56252 320-264-2987 1-800-525-0730

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John Deere Highlights, theater & gaming ..March 13-16

ZEST / October 2011 7

Breast Cancer Awareness

The power of pink October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Since the program began in 1985, mammography rates have more than doubled for women age 50 or older, and breast cancer deaths have declined.

This is exciting progress, but there are still women who do not take advantage of early detection at all and others who do not get screening mammograms and clinical breast exams at regular intervals. Women age 65 or older are less likely to get mammograms than younger women, even though breast cancer risk increases with age.

If all women age 40 or older took advantage of early detection methods – mammography plus clinical breast exam – breast cancer death rates would drop much further, up to 30 percent. The key to mammography screening is that it be done routinely – once is not enough.

Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. There are numerous types of breast cancer, but cancer that begins in the milk ducts is the most common type.

After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it’s far more common in women.

According to the National Cancer Institute, there have been 230,480 new cases in females and 2,140 new cases in males so far this year.

Both smoking and inheriting certain genes are risk factors that can increase chances of cancer. The NCI also said that although there is no way to prevent the development of cancer, regular exercise and a healthy diet may be protective factors against some types of cancer.

Factors that are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer include: • A personal history of breast cancer. If you’ve had breast cancer in one breast, you have an increased risk of developing cancer in the other breast.

• A family history of breast cancer. If you have a mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer, you have a greater chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

Still, the majority of people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

• Radiation exposure. If you received radiation treatments to your chest as a child or young adult, you’re more likely to develop breast cancer later in life.

• Obesity. Being overweight or obese increases your

8 ZEST / October 2011

risk of breast cancer because fat tissue produces estrogen that may help fuel certain cancers.

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. And just when you’re trying to cope with the shock and the fears about your future, you’re asked to make important decisions about your treatment. Every woman finds her own way of coping with a breast cancer diagnosis. Until you find what works for you, it might help to: • Learn what you need to know about your breast cancer. If you’d like to know more about your breast cancer, ask your doctor for the details of your cancer. Ask for good sources of up-to-date information on your treatment options. Knowing more about your cancer and your options may help you feel more confident when making treatment decisions.

• Talk with other breast cancer survivors. You may find it helpful and encouraging to talk to other women with breast cancer. Contact the American Cancer Society to find out about support groups in your area.

Organizations that can connect you with other cancer survivors online or by phone include the Breast Cancer Network of Strength and CancerCare. The National Cancer Institute can provide more information on local organizations. You can reach them at 800-4-CANCER. • Find someone to talk about your feelings. Find a friend or family member who is a good listener or talk with a clergy member or counselor. Ask your doctor for a referral to a counselor or other professional who works with cancer survivors.

• Keep your friends and family close. Your friends and family can provide a crucial support network for you during your cancer treatment. As you begin telling people about your breast cancer diagnosis, you’ll likely get many offers for help. Think ahead about things you may want help with, whether it’s having someone to talk to if you’re feeling low or getting help preparing meals.

• Take care of yourself. Make your well-being a priority during cancer treatment. Get enough sleep so you feel rested, choose a diet full of fruits and vegetables, make time for gentle exercise on days you feel up to it, and find time for things you enjoy, such as reading or listening to music. If you need to, let others take care of you for a while. This doesn’t mean you’re helpless or weak. It means you’re using all your energy to get well.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Recognize the signs

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n the United States alone, more than 200,000 breast cancer diagnoses are made each year. According to the American Cancer Society, the death rates for breast cancer among women are higher than for any other cancer besides lung cancer.

The survival rate for breast cancer is considerably better the earlier the cancer is detected. In fact, the Canadian Cancer Society notes the five-year survival rate for Canadian women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2004-06 was 88 percent. Such survival rates typically depend on the stage at which the cancer was diagnosed. Breast cancer is commonly diagnosed on a scale from 0 to IV, with 0 describing noninvasive cancers and IV describing invasive cancers that have spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body. In the U.S., stage 0 breast cancers have a considerably higher survival rate (93 percent according to the National Cancer Data Base) than stage IV breast cancers at 15 percent).

What those statistics illustrate is the emphasis women must place on detecting breast cancers. While self-examination was once suggested, medical organizations and professionals now question if such self-examinations are ideal. Women should consult their physician to determine the best approach for them. Self-examination might be the ultimate decision, but women must recognize the importance of immediately consulting their physician should any of the following signs and symptoms appear: • Lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm. This lump or thickening will persist through the menstrual cycle.

• An area that is noticeably different from any other area on either breast.

• A mass or lump on the breast. This lump can be as small as a pea.

• Changes in the size, shape or contour of the breast.

• Redness around the nipple or on the skin of the breast.

• A blood or clear fluid discharge from the nipple.

• A change in how the breast feels or appears. The breast might be scaly or inflamed and can even dimple.

• A hardened area under the skin.

While self-examination can help women discover any potential signs and symptoms of breast cancer, women should know that even a thorough self-examination in which no symptoms appear doesn’t necessarily mean a woman is breast cancer-free. Women, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer or those over the age of 50, should also be tested for breast cancer on an annual or biannual basis.

ZEST / October 2011 9

Breast Cancer Awareness

The

HEALING STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

power of

Kathy Wnoroski, director of the Hutchinson Center for the Arts surrounded herself with art during her recent battle with breast cancer.

Art

By Katie Winter

W

hen Kathy Wnoroski was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, she immediately turned to her lifelong passion: art While she was not painting landscapes or molding pottery, she was busy creating a space where artists can feel at home.

The title of her masterpiece is the Hutchinson Center for the Arts. Wnoroski is the center’s director and during the past year, in between doctor’s visits and radiation treatment, she put together a place for artists.

“While I did not turn to actually creating art,” Wnoroski said, “working with artists and helping to build the art

10 ZEST / October 2011

center helped me escape from the fears associated with and pain of going through treatments.”

Wnoroski is not the only cancer survivor to benefit from creativity. During a recent exhibit at the center, called “Art is at the HeART of Healing,” artwork was accepted from any cancer patient and families of loved ones who had cancer.

The turnout was tremendous as dozens of pieces were submitted and displayed on the gallery’s walls. The pieces ranged from stained glass panels and hand-carved wooden bowls to paintings of flowers and even a drawing from an 11-year old cancer survivor.

“The idea for the show developed while I was going through my own battle with cancer this year, and while talking to my volunteers at the center, several of whom

Breast Cancer Awareness

Artists painted various subjects to express the fear, worry and pain that accompanies the battle with cancer.

Artwork adorns the walls of the Hutchinson Center for the Arts during the center’s recent exhibit titled “Art is at the HeART of Healing.”The artwork was created by artists affected by cancer.

also have had cancer,” Wnoroski said. “Many people turn to art as an outlet while either battling the disease themselves, or while a loved one is sick, as a form of therapy.”

Mary Gillman is an eight-year cancer survivor and one of the artists featured in the exhibit. Prior to her illness, creating art was far from her mind. But then she discovered the therapeutic qualities of painting. Her depictions of nature – wildlife, hillsides, snowy fields – all helped her cope during treatment.

“During my treatments I had some downtime and started to think what I should or could be doing,” she said.

“Then I met (Hutchinson artist) Joyce Young. What a lifesaver she is and has been for me. She opened my eyes to so much, showed me not only how to paint with watercolor, but not to be afraid to try it.”

Researchers around the world have quantified the anecdotes of art’s benefits for cancer patients. A 2009 study published in the European Journal of Cancer Care concluded that women having radiation treatment for breast cancer experienced lasting improvements in mental and physical health and quality of life after participating in five sessions of art therapy.

Art therapy may have improved the women’s quality of life by helping them to maintain a positive identity, to deal with pain, and to feel control over their lives, the researchers said.

Wnoroski knows a lot about the pain, fear and loss of control that accompanies a cancer diagnosis. For the longtime newspaper editor and Cleveland, Ohio native, the battle against cancer did not begin with a bang, but rather the whimper of a routine mammogram. The doctors quickly scheduled Wnoroski for a breast lumpectomy, where surgeons discovered a larger than expected tumor and progression of the cancer into the lymph nodes.

She underwent chemotherapy and radiation. Her final treatment was in June.

“They thought they caught it early enough,” she said.

“They thought do a lumpectomy and I’d be fine. Then when I had the surgery, the surgeons were shocked. They couldn’t believe it had spread. Then I had to go to chemo and radiation. It was like having the flu for three months.

I finished with everything the end of June.”

As physically difficult as the treatments were, absorbing and understanding the reams of medical studies and treatment options was equally challenging mentally for Wnoroski. Fortunately, she had a strong circle of family and friends to lean on for support.

Her sister, a nurse, helped her wade through the stacks of medical studies and treatment options.

“The day you get diagnosed you have a million questions,” she said. “I was always asking for the numbers. I wanted to know what the percentage increase of my survival rate is if I do this treatment. There are so many different treatment options. There are so many studies. My sister is a nurse and every step of the way she read every study that came out. She did the research for me. She reads all the side effects. She would go to the doctor with questions.”

Also signing up for support duty were 10 of Wnoroski’s friends, all breast cancer survivors themselves. The women attended doctor’s appointments with Wnoroski, sent her care packages on an almost daily basis and provided an understanding of the disease.

“I’ve had a lot of help,” Wnoroski said. “My girlfriends are great. So many of them have had it. It’s a lot easier to get through because they knew what I was going through.

They used to send me care packages all the time. One time I got this huge box of hats. It was so cute.”

ZEST / October 2011 11

Breast Cancer Awareness Today, Wnoroski is doing all she can to ward off a return of the breast cancer. She has adopted an all-organic diet, which includes many homemade sauces and soups.

She has stopped using all pesticides and fertilizers on her yard, to reduce her exposure to possible cancer-causing chemicals. A doctor’s appointment in December will tell her if her efforts have paid off.

“It’s still scary because you don’t know if they got it,” she said. ”You don’t really feel good until five years out because you don’t know. It could still easily still be there.

It can come back at anytime.”

In the meantime, Wnoroski is busy at the Hutchinson Center for the Arts planning new events and exhibits. In October a pumpkin chucking contest is on the calendar as is collecting artwork for the center’s first juried art show, titled “The Colors of Fall.” The projects help keep her mind off the illness, something she recommends for others.

“I would say do what you’re hobby is, your passion, whether its art or collecting,” Wnoroski said. “Just focus on that. Otherwise you sit around and think about how sick you are and worry about.”

For more information on the Hutchinson Center for the Arts call Wnoroski at 320-587-7278, or e-mail: info@HutchinsonArts.org. Its website is www.hutchinsonarts.org, or stop it at 28 Main St. N. in Hutchinson.

Gallery hours are 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday,

12 ZEST / October 2011

A young, who survived leukemia, had his love of John Deere tractors to help him get better.

2 to 5 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Support groups at your service Cancer support groups offer much for those battling cancer. Here are a few places that offer help for patients.

• In Hutchinson, the Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Faith Lutheran Church, 335 Main Street South. To learn more about the group contact, Renee Wetterling at 320-587-6701.

• At Ridgeview Medical Center in Waconia, the Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 6-7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month in the garden level conference room. This group also meets at The Pizza Ranch on the fourth Thursday of each month. Call Rachel at 952-443-2830 for information. This is a group for women to share questions and concerns about their experiences with

breast cancer. Speakers present information on different topics every meeting.

• The Coborn Cancer Center, 1900 CentraCare Circle, Suite 1500, Saint Cloud offers a full range of services for anyone concerned with breast health. Services include routine screenings, assessment, diagnostic work-up, education and treatment plans.

Breast center case coordination is available for any patient with breast cancer or who is experiencing a breast biopsy and could benefit by having further education and/or support to help facilitate services from the time of diagnosis through surgical intervention and adjuvant therapy.

Diagnostic services include mammography, image checker, ultrasound,

ultrasound guided biopsy, stereotactic biopsy, surgical biopsy, sentinel lymph node biopsy and breast MRI. Support groups, services and classes are also available. For more information, call Juli Sanner at 320-2294919.

• Also in Saint Cloud is Breast Friends – Breast Cancer Support Group. It meets at 8 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Meeting Grounds, 27 Seventh Avenue North. For more information, contact Emilie Tru at 320-743-2698 •The Cancer Support Group meets at Willmar’s Rice Memorial Hospital.

The time is from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in the hospitals community health library. To learn more, contact Rev. Beverly Crute at 320-231-4211.

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Medicare Answers

Uncovering drug restrictions Dear Marci, Original Medicare won’t pay for a blood test that my doctor ordered for me. What can I do?

– Cassie Dear Cassie If Original Medicare won’t pay for health care or services you received, you’ll find this out when you get your Medicare Summary Notice. An MSN is a notice you get from Original Medicare that lists services and items you have received from doctors, other health care providers, and suppliers. You’ll usually get an MSN every three months.

The MSN is not a bill. It shows the amount Medicare paid for health care services and items you received and the amount you’re responsible for paying. When Medicare denies payment for a service, it’s listed on your MSN. If you think your care was medically necessary and Medicare should cover it, here is what to do.

First, make sure that the problem isn’t a simple billing mistake. Medicare uses a set of service codes, called CPT codes, for processing medical claims. Each medical service has a specific code. Sometimes, providers accidentally use the wrong codes when filling out Medicare paperwork, and this can result in Medicare denials. A denial can sometimes be easily resolved by asking your doctor to check that your claim was submitted with the right codes.

Your doctor’s billing office can call 800-MEDICARE to get in touch with the company that processes Medicare claims. If the wrong code was used, ask your doctor to resubmit the claim with the correct code.

If your doctor thinks that the claim was filed correctly or doesn’t want to resubmit the claim, you may wish to appeal. An appeal is a formal request asking Medicare to pay for services or items it denied. To appeal to Original Medicare, follow the appeal instructions on the MSN. Circle the items you want to dispute, write “please review” and sign the bottom. Then mail it to the address listed on the MSN. It’s also a good idea to get a letter of support from your doctor saying why you needed the denied service, or why it was medically necessary. Including this letter with your MSN when you send it for review typically makes a big difference in your appeal. Send your appeal certified mail or delivery confirmation so that you make sure it arrives, and keep copies of what you send. You have 120 days from the date you receive the MSN to appeal.

Appealing is easy. Many people win and get Medicare to pay for their care. However, there are certain services that Original Medicare never pays for. For example, Medicare never covers more than 100 days in a skilled nursing facility. Before you appeal, you may want to find out how Medicare usually covers the denied service. If you appeal for services that Medicare never covers, you’re unlikely to win.

The appeals process for Medicare Advantage plans is

14 ZEST / October 2011

Sometimes a denial of payment for service from Medicare is a result of billing mistake. Ask your doctor to check that your claim was submitted with the right service codes. slightly different. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan, you should get a written notice from your plan whenever it denies payment or coverage of your health care. The notice contains instructions on how to appeal.

–Marci Dear Marci, I’ve read that my drug plan can put restrictions on my drugs, what does that mean?

– Steven Dear Steven, Drug plans will sometimes put restrictions on certain drugs they cover. Stand-alone drug plans that supplement Original Medicare and the drug coverage that comes with Medicare Advantage plans both have coverage restrictions. These restrictions can include prior authorization, quantity limits and step therapy.

Prior authorization means that your doctor must get special approval from your plan in order for that prescription to be covered. It is also sometimes called pre-authorization or pre-approval by your plan. Quantity limits are when your plan will only cover a certain amount of a prescription drug. For example, your plan will only cover 30 pills for a particular drug every month even though your doctor has prescribed you 60 pills a month. Another restriction is step therapy. Step therapy is when your plan requires you to first try another, less expensive drug to see if it will be effective before your plan approves the drug that your doctor wrote the prescription for.

You have the right to appeal any restrictions that a plan

Medicare Answers puts on a drug. The steps of an appeal are the same for all the different Part D plans. The first thing you should do is have your doctor write to your drug plan and ask them to remove their restriction on the drug for you. This letter should tell the plan that other drugs on the formulary would not work as well for you or could be harmful. Or, that there are medical reasons for the prescribed dose.

This process of sending a letter with reasons to remove the restrictions is called requesting an exception. If the plan denies the exception request, you and your doctor can write back to ask your plan for a redetermination. It is best if this response includes a statement from your doctor that responds specifically to your plan’s reasons for denying the exception.

If your plan denies the redetermination, you and your doctor can write to MAXIMUS Federal Service to ask that the restriction not apply to you. MAXIMUS is the independent group that considers Parts C and D appeals.

MAXIMUS is not connected to your plan and makes an independent decision. There are higher levels of Part D appeal after MAXIMUS but most cases are decided by the time they get to the MAXIMUS level.

Before appealing, you should talk to your doctor about whether you can change your prescription to a drug that would be equally effective, but does not have the same restrictions.

— Marci

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ZEST / October 2011 15

Feature Story

Ahoy there,

shipmates Veterans from the U.S.S. Meeker County reunite to dedicate tea set

By Katie Winter and Brent Schacherer

L

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The citizens of Meeker County gifted a silver tea service to the crew of the U.S.S. Meeker County in 1955. Recently the tea set was returned to Litchfield.

16 ZEST / October 2011

and locked and hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean, Meeker County is not the obvious setting for a reunion of U.S. Navy shipmates.

Yet in August, several former Navy veterans who served on the U.S.S. Meeker County flocked to Litchfield to reminisce about their time aboard the ship. Memories of the D-Day invasion, battles on Vietnam and camaraderie were reawakened during discussions of the ship’s 32-year history in the U.S. Navy.

“Personally, I am so grateful these guys are coming,” said Richard Holtz, commander of the Meeker County Navy Club, who helped organize the reunion itinerary.

“Reunions like this are usually held in Norfolk (Va.), San Diego... but they decided it would be neat to come to Litchfield, to Meeker County.”

Included on the schedule were visits to the Forest City Stockade, G.A.R. Hall, Anderson Gardens and Legion Memorial Park.

Holtz said about 10 former crew members of the U. S. S. Meeker County, haling from locales throughout the United States, including Florida and New England, attended the reunion. The group totaled 24 people, which included U.S.S. Meeker County veterans, and their wives and friends. U.S.S. Meeker County veteran John McCullers was among them and said the reunion had many unforgettable moments.

“Some of these veterans had been very close when they served together aboard ship, but had not seen each other since then,” McCullers said. “Four men – Reggie Kneiding, Bill Ketelaar, Don Larson, and John Krohn – all reported for duty aboard the LST 980 as teenagers directly from boot

Feature Story camp. This was the first time the four of them had sat down together in 56 years. It was a sweet and poignant occasion for them.”

Official business But amongst the sightseeing and re-kindled friendships, the reunion served an official purpose – to return to Meeker County an artifact from the ship.

During the reunion banquet, ship members presented the U. S. S. Meeker County’s silver tea service to the local Navy club, whose members loaned it to the Meeker County Historical Society for display in the Litchfield museum.

The tea service was presented to the U. S. S. Meeker County when it was renamed – from LST-980 – on July 1, 1955. The tea set was a gift from the citizens of Meeker County, according to the ship’s history.

“We came to Minnesota on a mission,” McCullers said. “To formally return and re-dedicate a beautiful silver tea service to the people of Meeker County. At our recent banquet, that same tea service sat quietly and proudly, displayed on a central table, and gleaming as brightly and as beautifully as it did when first we saw it 56 years ago. The ship is now gone; the tea service remains. The tea set came from the people of the county, and it is now part of them, just as the ship was, and ever will be, a part of Meeker County.”

The tea set stayed with the U.S.S. Meeker County until it was decommissioned in 1970, at which time it returned to Litchfield. The artifact left the county again in 1993, when two members of the Meeker County Navy Club’s cadet program brought it with them as a gift for a short stay on the U.S.S. George Washington.

The new captain of that ship decided last year to return the tea set to Meeker County, sending it to veterans service officer Chuck Unterberger.

“When the crew members of the Meeker County found out about it, they thought it would be nice to have their reunion here, so they can officially present the tea set back to Meeker County,” Holtz explained.

STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

The LST-980 served missions during World War II and the Vietnam War. It was renamed the U. S. S. Meeker County shortly after its service in World War II. Pages of history In advance of their visit, some of the crew members sent memory books to Holtz, who called the books a treasure trove of information about life aboard ship. Included in a threering binder of collected information is a copy of the program for the LSTnaming ceremony on July 1, 1955, when LST-980 became the U. S. S. Meeker County.

Holtz also received a copy of the ship’s deck log book for June 1944, a daily account of what the ship did leading up to and during one of the most crucial moments of World War II - D-Day, June 6, 1944.

The record is emotionless and sparse, yet compelling, even as one struggles to decipher the varying scrawls of multiple ensigns.

“It’s a firsthand account from the bridge (of the ship) to the quartermaster, from the time they left England to when they stormed the beaches at Normandy,” Holtz said.

The log reports that, at 1004 hours (10:04 a.m.) on June 5, LST-980 was “underway in accordance with Force L operational orders en route to invasion of French coast. Captain at the comm. navigator on the bridge.”

Between midnight and 4 a.m. June

6, the ship was “steaming in formation from South End, England, for the invasion of the coast of France.”

Another entry reports that just 15 minutes before midnight June 6, the LST-980 was “Dive-bombed by enemy plane, awaiting further inspection.”

From midnight to 4 a.m. June 7, the ship was anchored at “General quarters, condition ‘Zebra’ set.” “General quarters” signals the crew to prepare for battle or imminent damage, and all watertight doors between bulkheads are shut and security is increased around sensitive areas such as the bridge and engineering rooms.

The bomb, a 125-pound dud, according to another report, penetrated the hull and two bulkheads, killing one man and causing minor damage.

After establishment of the beachhead, the landing ship remained in the area providing shuttle service between the United Kingdom and France. Carrying men and equipment to France, it returned to England with prisoners of war, transporting upward of 900 at one time.

After its service in World War II, the ship officially was named U.S.S. Meeker County, then was decommissioned in December 1955, staying in reserve service.

ZEST / October 2011 17

Feature Story Then, an urgent need for amphibious ships caused U.S.S. Meeker County to be reactivated in 1965 in the Vietnam War. Operating from Da Nang, the ship provided almost continuous support to combat operations in Vietnam into 1969.

As LST-980, the ship received one battle star for World War II service, and it received 10 campaign stars as U. S. S. Meeker County for service during the Vietnam War.

“Like a fraternity” Holtz said he was happy to help organize the reunion of former U.S.S. Meeker County shipmates. It is all part of duties as commander of the U.S.S. Meeker County Navy Club. The “social club” began in 1974 and aims to be a resource for veterans old and new, Holtz said. Any veteran, who served in the Navy, Marine Corp, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines is welcome to join the club.

The group’s 44 members meet once a month for a meal and conversation. During Watercade week in Litchfield, the club enters a float in the parade, but it is not just an ordinary float. The navy club float comes complete with a WWII era torpedo as decoration. Holtz said the club’s activities build a bond between the members.

“It gets to be like a fraternity,” he said. “We all love the Navy. And the reunion was a lot of fun.”

For more information on U.S.S. Meeker County Navy Club, call Holtz at 320-221-1149.

The Litchfield VFW and the U.S.S. Meeker County Navy Club hosted a banquet in honor of the reunion of veterans from the U.S.S. Meeker County and the homecoming of a silver tea service that also was onboard the ship.

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Feature Story A group of 10 U.S. Navy veterans who served on the U.S.S. Meeker County reunited in August in Litchfield. Many of them had not seen each other since their last operations together during the 1950s and 1960s.

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ZEST / October 2011 19

Money

Ask for your discount

By Matilda Charles

on

Sometimes the key to getting a discount is just getting up the nerve to ask for one. If we get in the habit of asking for a discount every single time we spend money, think how much we could save.

Someone on the Internet has compiled a long list of stores that give discounts to customers older than 50. You can find that list by going to Google.com and searching for “106 Stores with Senior Discounts.” There’s even a handy PDF version you can print out to make sure you don’t miss anything. Categories include restaurants, retail and apparel, grocery, travel, activities and entertainment, cell phones and more.

Not only is the amount of the discount noted (either the percentage of the total purchase or a dollar amount), but the day of the week or date during the month, as well as the age it applies to.

If you’re a member of AARP, there are dozens of discounts built right into the membership. On the website, www.aarp.org, click on Member Benefits, then Discounts.

To name just two of the new discounts, Walgreens offers savings if you show your card, and Michaels has discounts

Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. It can save you a lot in the long run.

Tuesdays. There are 15,000 restaurant locations that offer discounts, and travel discounts can be found on car rentals, hotels, cruises and tours.

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County Programs

Out and About

A blast from the past Photos offer glimpses of by-gone eras A MOTHER’S KITCHEN. Dennis Bergquist sent in this photo of an outdoor kitchen in the highlands of Guatemala that was taken on a humanitarian trip to the Central America in July.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

We want your photos

STAFF PHOTO

PRIME VINTAGE.The 52nd Red Rooster Days festivities in Dassel were in full swing Labor Day weekend, complete with an antique car show.

“It’s such a wonderful life.”

What does wonderful mean to you? Grandchildren?

Gardening? Traveling? Pets?

Send an original digital image from your camera to winter@hutchinsonleader.com and a brief photo description. Include your name, address and phone number. Or drop off a photo at the Hutchinson Leader, 36 Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson or at the Independent Review, 217 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield.

You also are welcome to send your photos through the mail.

Call Katie at 320-234-4172 for more information.

Photographs will be featured on our website, and selected photos will be in future issues of Zest.

Can’t wait to see them!

ZEST / October 2011 21

Wellness

Healthy lifestyle reduces risk of breast cancer recurrence Dear Mayo Clinic: I am a two-year breast cancer survivor. What lifestyle choices will actually make a difference as far as preventing a recurrence?

As a breast cancer survivor, you can take steps to help reduce the risk of recurrence. They include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink. Not only will these lifestyle changes decrease the chances that breast cancer will return, they can lower your risk of other serious illnesses.

Among the most important steps is maintaining a healthy weight, especially in the years following menopause. Research suggests that fat tissue is a source of estrogen. Many breast cancers are hormone sensitive and can grow faster in the presence of estrogen and progesterone. So, carrying extra fat tissue may increase the

possibility that breast cancer will develop, particularly in women with a history of breast cancer.

Staying at a healthy weight, or losing weight if necessary, reduces fat tissue, decreasing the amount of estrogen in the body and in turn lowering your risk of an estrogensensitive cancer. Research estimates are that a healthy weight can reduce your breast cancer risk by about 26 percent. Although there are no specific dietary guidelines for breast cancer survivors, a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, grains and vegetables and low in fats and sugars can help maintain a healthy weight.

A formula called the body mass index, which compares weight to height, can help determine if you are in a healthy weight range. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. For most people, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal.

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Regular exercise trims body fat and reduces the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Wellness Closely linked to staying at a healthy weight is exercising regularly. Exercise has been shown to decrease estrogen levels, lower insulin levels and help boost the immune system. There is good evidence that starting to exercise regularly before menopause has long-term benefits against breast cancer. If exercise isn’t part of your daily routine, starting slow is fine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise three times a week. Remember, you don’t have to train for a marathon. Brisk walking, bicycle riding and swimming are good ways to get the exercise your body needs.

The benefits that come with staying at a healthy weight and exercising regularly extend far beyond reducing your breast cancer risk. They can also help prevent colon cancer and other types of gastrointestinal cancers, as well as gynecologic cancers such as endometrial cancer. Being overweight is a risk factor for these types of cancer.

In addition, weight loss and exercise have clearly been shown to help prevent heart disease — the number one cause of death for women in the U.S. Finally, regular exercise is known to help prevent bone loss that can lead to osteoporosis. That’s particularly significant for women who are in menopause and critical for those who are taking anti-estrogen therapies to reduce breast cancer recurrence risk, because these therapies can speed the development of osteoporosis.

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The other important change you can make is limiting how much alcohol you drink. Research suggests that the more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk of developing breast cancer. The general recommendation is that women limit their alcohol intake on average to no more than one alcoholic beverage a day (eight ounces of wine, 16 ounces of beer, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor).

By following these lifestyle recommendations, you can play a key part in decreasing your risk of recurrent breast cancer. For details on a weight-loss or exercise program that’s right for you, or for strategies on how to limit your alcohol intake, talk to your doctor.

Sandhya Pruthi, M.D., Breast Diagnostic Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

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ZEST / October 2011 23

Feature Story

Autumn majesty

10 fall color tours to take your breath away

I

t’s that time of year when people hit the road to see the leaves change.

Every autumn, outdoor enthusiasts bear witness to the beautiful show of color and the wonder of Mother Nature. Although spring, summer and winter offer their share of natural splendor, perhaps no season offers the aesthetic appeal of autumn.

Vivid yellows, oranges, purples and reds can be seen in forests and hillsides all across Minnesota this time of year. Each year thousands of people flock to areas of the state to catch a glimpse of peak color. Here’s a sampler of routes for viewing a rainbow of colorful fall foliage in Minnesota. The list includes some well-known favorites, and some less-known gems where you don’t have to share the view with a crowd.

North Shore of Lake Superior Route: Minnesota State Highway 61 from Duluth to Grand Portage Peak color: Mid-September to early October Description: Great color and great lake views, very popular with fall color fans. Several state parks with wilderness rivers, waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

Yellow aspen and birch along shoreline, with scarlet maples inland along forest roads. Make sure you have a

24 ZEST / October 2011

reservation for a place to stay, and try planning midweek trips to avoid the busiest travel periods. This has been designated as an “All American Drive,” one of only 15 routes in the country so noted for their outstanding scenery. For an inland view, take Minnesota State Highway 1 through the colors of the Superior National Forest to Ely.

Iron Range Loop Route: Minnesota State Highway 169 from Virginia to Tower, and Minnesota State Highway 135 through Biwabik back to Virginia Peak color: Mid-September to early October Description: There’s a beautiful mix of color on this circle drive, but plenty of other highlights as well: a tour of the Soudan Underground Mine, a major golf course at Giants Ridge, and the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame at Eveleth. At Virginia, there’s an overlook of the area’s deepest open pit mine and the new Mesabi Bike Trail.

Edge of the Wilderness Route: Minnesota State Highway 38 from Grand Rapids to Bigfork Peak color: Mid-September to early October Description: Scenic byway winds over hills through the

Feature Story colorful mix of pine and hardwoods of Chippewa National Forest. Return via County Road 7, and a side trip to beautiful Scenic State Park. Or take one of the back roads through the forest, with stops at lakes and hiking trails.

Mississippi Headwaters Route: Hwy. 71 between Park Rapids and Bemidji, plus numerous other roads around these towns Peak color: Mid-September to early October Description: Itasca State Park, source of the mighty Mississippi River, is the star attraction. Lake Bemidji State Park, with its birch and pine, is another highlight.

Surfaced bike trail in Itasca, and mountain bike trails in Bemidji State Park. Also, scenic biking along the nearby Heartland Trail.

Otter Tail County Route: Minnesota State Highways 108 and 78, and numerous county roads Peak color: Late September to early October Description: The rolling countryside between Fergus Falls and Perham is a blend of wooded hills, lakes, and farmland. Highlights are Maplewood and Glendalough state parks, historic Phelps Mill, and the view from Inspiration Peak, off County Road 38.

Brainerd Lakes & Mille Lacs

wooded hillsides. St. Paul’s tree-lined Summit Avenue is bordered by stately homes.

Mississippi River Valley Route: U.S. Highway 61 between Red Wing and LaCrescent Peak color: Mid-October Description: Charming rivertowns and wooded bluffs along the Mississippi. Steep hillsides dressed in brilliant autumn hues of red, russet and gold. Several scenic overlooks, including those at Frontenac and Great River Bluffs state parks. Several roadside apple stands. This is a popular fall drive, so book your stay ahead of time.

Minnesota River Drive Route: County Road 6 and Minnesota State Highway 93 from Belle Plaine to LeSueur, then U.S. Highway 169 to Mankato, then Minnesota State Highway 68 to New Ulm. Peak color: Late September to mid-October Description: Follows the bend in the river, and the ribbon of yellow and gold hardwoods that borders its waters.

Riverside parks in LeSueur, St. Peter, Mankato, and New Ulm, as well as blufftop overlooks in New Ulm. At Minneopa State Park, a trail follows the riverbank, and there are 45- foot double waterfalls along a creek.

– www.exploreminnesota.com

Route: Minnesota State Highways 371 and 6, and the county roads between them, plus Minnesota State Highway 169 Peak color: Late September to early October Description: Gull, Pelican and Cross lakes and the Whitefish Chain of Lakes sparkle amid woods of maple, oak, birch and aspen. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is an expanse of colorful forest at the edge of Mille Lacs, and an observation tower here offers fantastic views. Fishing, boating, golfing and biking the Paul Bunyan Trail are favorite activities in this lake country.

St. Croix River Valley Route: Minnesota State Highway 95 from Taylors Falls to Afton Peak color: Late September to early October Description: The scenic St. Croix River winds through wooded hillsides and sheer cliffs. Four state parks feature great river views: Interstate, Wild River, William O'Brien and Afton. Charming towns of Stillwater, Taylors Falls and Afton have numerous antique and gift shops. Boat excursions feature great fall color. This drive is very popular in the fall; consider a midweek visit to avoid weekend traffic.

Twin Cities Touring Route: Parkways around Minneapolis lakes, along Minnehaha Creek, Mississippi and Summit Ave. Peak color: Late September to early October Description: Few major cities can boast such beautiful drives, especially pretty in the fall. Circle Lake of the Isles, Calhoun, Harriet and Nokomis lakes, and visit Minnehaha Falls. They’re all along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. The Lake Street and Ford Parkway bridges have great views of the Mississippi bordered by colorful,

Hit the open road this fall and experience all the colors of the season.

ZEST / October 2011 25

Comfort Foods

Pumpkin, spice and everything nice Curry Pumpkin Soup From Family Features Ingredients: • 2 medium pumpkins (3 to 4 pounds) • 1 large pumpkin (for use as soup tureen) • 2 cups chicken broth • 1 cup water • 1/4 cup maple syrup • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 2 teaspoons curry powder • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon ginger • 1 cup heavy cream • Toasted pumpkin seeds, optional • Crème fraiche or sour cream, optional Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut two medium pumpkins in half. Reserve large pumpkin for use as soup tureen. Scoop out seeds and place skin-side down on baking sheet. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until soft.

2. Scoop out pumpkin flesh into food processor and puree until smooth. Pour pureed pumpkin into saucepan and add chicken broth, water, maple syrup and spices.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

2. While the soup is cooking, cut the top off the large pumpkin to create the serving bowl. The hole should be wide enough to fit a ladle. Hollow out seeds, checking for holes and lining with plastic, if necessary. Remove soup from heat and stir in heavy cream. Pour soup into large pumpkin and serve garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds and crème fraiche.

Makes 6 servings

Mini Pumpkin Whoopie Pies From Family Features Ingredients: Cookies • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar • 2 large eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten • 1 cup Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

26 ZEST / October 2011

Bite into a soft mini pumpkin whoopie pie.

Cream Cheese Filling • 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature • 6 tablespoons butter, softened • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Preparation For Cookies: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line four baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter and sugar in large mixer bowl on medium speed for 2 minutes.

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add pumpkin and vanilla extract; beat until smooth. Stir in flour mixture until combined. Drop by heaping measuring teaspoons onto prepared baking sheets. (A total of 72 cookies are needed for the recipe.)

3. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until springy to the touch. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

For Cream Cheese Filling: 1. Beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl on medium speed until fluffy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Spread a heaping teaspoon of filling onto flat side of one cookie; top with flat side of second cookie to make a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling.

Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Makes 3 dozen.

Comfort Foods Hint of Honey Pumpkin Spread From Family Features Ingredients: • 1 package (8 ounces) 1/3 less fat cream cheese at room temperature • 1/2 cup Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin • 2 tablespoons honey • 1 pinch ground cinnamon Preparation 1. Stir cream cheese, pumpkin, honey and cinnamon in medium bowl for one minute or until smooth. Serve immediately or refrigerate in tightly covered container for up to 4 days.

Makes about 1 1/3 cups.

2. Serve with apple slices or wholewheat crackers.

Makes 10 servings of 2 tablespoons each

Pile a dallop of honey pumpkin spread on apples or crackers.

Barbecued Pork Chops From Elise Heutinck, Hector Ingredients: • 4 lean pork chops, 1-inch thick • 4 slices of onion • 4 cup brown sugar • 4 cup barbecue sauce • Salt Preparation 1. Season chops with salt. Place in a 9-inch by 13-inch pan. 2. Top each chop with brown sugar, onion and barbecue sauce. Cover with tin foil. Bake for one hour at 350 degrees. 3. Uncover and bake another 30 minutes, basting occasionally with juice.

Ruben Mix From Jean Willey, Litchfield Ingredients: • 8 oz. cream cheese • 8 oz. sour cream • 1 lb. Swiss cheese, shredded • 16 oz. sauerkraut with 1/2 juice • 1 lb. corn beef (budding cut up) Preparation 1. Put in crock pot on warm until cheese melts.

2. Stir and serve with crackers or bread.

Service, Security and Satisfaction…Our Promise To Our Customers

INVEST IN BETTER HEARING! Let Us Help…

•UNDERSTAND what is being said •Catch it the first time with no REPEATING •Keep the tv sound LOWER not louder •Hear all tones of voices!

Litchfield Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center 338 U.S. Hwy. 12, Suite 103 Litchfield, MN

320-593-0885 or 1-800-447-7244

Hutchinson Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm 100 Washington Ave. E., Hutchinson, MN 55350

320-234-6825 or 1-866-361-3036

Glencoe Branch of Willmar Hearing Aid Center 624 13th St., Suite 102, Glencoe, MN 55336

N-02641

From your recipe box

320-864-2055 or 1-800-732-3730 ZEST / October 2011 27

Puzzles

Exceptional SENIOR LIVING

EVERGREEN APARTMENTS Now Taking Applications

Senior Community Your life can be carefree at a price you can afford.

5Rental Assistance available 5 Social Activities 5Community lounge/kitchen 5 Caring Staff 5Spacious 1 Bedroom Apts.

5Medical emergency call buttons 5Walking distance to shopping and restaurants Call for your personal tour today

320-587-9432 28 ZEST / October 2011

N02638 ZEST

(62+/Handicap or Disabled)

All answers on page 30

Puzzles

All answers on page 30

“The mail’s here!”

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N02255

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ZEST / October 2011 29

Classifieds Cleaning

2100

FALL CLEANUP, LAWN MOWING, dethatch, handy man, Gutter cleaning and home repair, HOUSE PAINTING, decks, limb trimming, hauling, local moving, snow blowing. Low cost, mature careful work. Senior discounts!

David at 320-552-1559

CLEANING OPENINGS for the elderly.

Floors, bathrooms, kitchens, running errands. Call 952-457-2230

Yard & Garden

2205

LAWN AERATION OVERSEEDING FALL & WINTER FERTILIZING PRUNING & FALL CLEANUP Free estimates. Reasonable prices.

CALL 320-587-6619 Cell 320-583-1480

Misc. Services

2630

CUTTING EDGE TREE CARE Trimming, removals, lot clearing, planting, cabling, shrub pruning.

Licensed & insured. 952-693-3799

HAVE JUNK? We lift, load & haul away miscellaneous junk. Free estimates. Good Riddance Junk Removal Services.

Jorgensen & Sons 952-356-2840

TOY STORAGE, 6 month storage for boats and RV's. Call 320-587-5483 leave a message.

Appliances

3020

CHEST FREEZER, KENMORE, Access Plus, bottom drawer chest freezer, 4.8 cubic feet, top chest, pull out bottom drawer, retails for $300; selling for $125. 320-593-2589 evenings

Puzzle Answers

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! Call 320-587-5000 for advertising information.

CROSLEY 15 CU. ft. upright freezer, works fine. $100 BO. 320-262-6804 DRYER, HEAVY DUTY, large capacity, works great, $75. 320-587-9409 GE CLOTHES DRYER, 3 yrs old, excellent condition. $100. 320-857-2738 GE RANGE, ELECTRIC, self cleaning, bisque and black, works fine. $100 BO. 320-262-6804 GEORGE FOREMAN ELECTRIC grill, in/out 17.5 inch diameter cooking space, used twice. $50 320-238-2260 MICROWAVE, SHARP CAROUSEL, 24” x 15”, $10 BO. 320-328-4354 REFRIGERATOR, GE, WHITE, great for cabin or basement. $60. 320-5878118 UPRIGHT FREEZER, 18.2 cu. ft. excellent condition. $60. 320-234-6256

Medical Equip

3150

LIFT CHAIR, works good, excellent condition. $350. or BO. Call 320-5878329

Exercise Equip.

3070

FAST TRACK II SKI-TYPE treadmill, slightly used, $100. call 320-398-8395

Firewood/Fireplace 3080 ASH, ELM, MIXED hardwood. Split, dried and delivered. $75 pickup load.

PLUS SNOW REMOVAL. 320-5874924

Furniture

3090

ANTIQUE SOFA BLUE print upholstry with wood trim, excellent condition, $75.

320-328-4064 COMPUTER DESK, $20. 320-5834860 COUCH FOR SALE: Smokey blue print with mauve floral. Oak trim across the top back and on arms. Skirting around bottom. $200 Call 320-857-2736 DARK BLUE ROCKER glider, $15. Call 320-552-1339

FREE Zest Classified Ad Form Zest is now offering FREE private party classified to area residents. Sell your used items with these 30-word ads!

Item up to $400: Item up to $800: $4.95 Item up to $1,600: $9.95 Item up to $2,400: $14.95 Item over $2,400: $19.95

FREE!

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ZEST CLASSIFIED AD COUPON

Price must be listed in ad. Excludes pets.

30 ZEST / October 2011

My Ad: ______________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Name _______________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________ Daytime Phone________________________________________

Classifieds Furniture

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! Call 320-587-5000 for advertising information.

LAMP, WALL MOUNT swing arm lamp, no longer needed at the cabin, neutral color and in good shape, $10. Call 320296-5135, leave a message.

3090

DINING ROOM TABLE, 2 leaves, protector, no chairs, excellent cond. $75.

218-371-9314 DOUBLE BED, COMPLETE. Excellent condition. $65. 612-205-1006 DRESSER, SIX DRAWER, wood dresser with plate glass mirror, good starter dresser, cheap. Husband says its got to go! $15. Call 320-296-5135, leave a message.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, 4 piece, dark brown wood, fits any size television, lots of storage, $100. Call 320455-9111 FULL SIZE BED WITH brass rail headboard, 5 drawer chest of drawers. $125 for set. Glencoe, 320-296-7373 FURNITURE: SEVERAL DIFFERENT pieces all in good condition. Used furniture moving sale. You pick up, $10 and up or you make offer. Joan, 320-5870322, 320-292-6633

SOFA AND 2 living room chairs with 2 ottomans, from Macy's, good condition, $200. 320-587-6342 SOFA, TAN/BROWN, 3 cushion, excellent condition. $300. 320-848-6301

LEATHER CHAIR WITH ottoman, very good condition, like new, purchased for $700; selling for $375 BO, please call with email and will send photo. 320295-1387

TWIN BED WITH wood headboard and foot board, nice. $25. 320-693-2707

Heat/AC Supplies 3110

LOVE SEAT HIDE-A-BED, Schweiger, light beige, 46” wide, 36” deep, great for college dorm/apartments. Excellent condition. $75. 320-587-9757 OCCASIONAL CHAIR, MASTERCRAFT, burgandy print, excellent condition. $50. 320-583-4737 PICNIC TABLE, $30. Call 612-7506430

LENOX FURNACE, 120,000 BTU, $100. 320-583-8816, 320-234-7778

QUEEN ANNE CHAIR, burgandy color, good condition, $15. 320-587-9409

Household Goods 3130

WASH TUB, FIBERGLASS, with stand, very good condition. $20. 320-587-8118

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ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOW, screen and blind. 34” by 48” Outer frame included. $25 320-587-7753 HUMIDIFIER, BEMIS, excellent condition, oak look finish, new $160; selling for $65. 320-587-5629, leave message

LARSON DOOR, 36X81, full-lite, roller screen, white, right hinge from outside. $100. 320-587-4226

BREAD MAKER, CHEF MATE, 1½ lb loaf, bread and dough maker, video and recipes included, $20 BO. 320-3284354

s ful storie h wonder it w n m Autu e!

Ease into at the Barn Theatr -2012

3160

LARGE MIRROR WITH decorative birds, 29 1/2” x 54”, 3” gold border, like new, $50 BO. 320-693-7828

CENTRAL BOILER OUTDOOR FURNACES “FALL REBATE SPECIALS” Class-Act Outdoor Furnace 763-972-6255 Classactfurnace.com

RECLINER, LANE COMFORT king, like new condition, while built for the tall/large person it is also very comfortable for the average person, retails for $1,000; selling for $250. 320-593-2589 evenings

Misc. For Sale

TERRY REDLIN PRINT, “Evening Surprise” in Oak Frame. Pick up or delivery. $55. Call Leisha at 320-234-9773

Power Equip/Tools 3190 CRAFTSMAN SNOW BLOWER, runs great! $300. Call 320-455-9111 TABLE SAW, CRAFTSMAN, 3 hp, works well, $100. 320-221-3026

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Shari Forsman Advertising Representative (320) 234-4171 sales@crowriverpress.com

ZEST / October 2011 31

32 ZEST / October 2011