zest

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50+ Living April 2013

FREE!

Raising voices

THEIR

Litchfield Area Male Chorus proves it has staying power with 50 years in the making

Inside ® • Business owner will continue passion for painting porcelain after closing shop • When retiring together doesn't always make financial sense • More senior citizens visit food shelves

LEAVING IOWA

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by Tim Clue and Spike Manton Directed by Maureen Style

April 11-14, 18-21 7:30 pm & (Sundays) 2:30 pm Underwritten by Family Eye Center/ Fischer Laser Eye Center LLC

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The Sound of Music

June 17, 18, 20–25, 27–30

One for the Pot

Aug. 7–10, 13–16

Bus Stop

Sept. 11–14, 18–21

This activity is funded, in part, by a grant from the SW MN Arts & Humanities Council through an appropriation from the MN State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund.

Any Lunch Madness Combo 6 different Combos to choose from!

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321 SW 4th St., Willmar 320-235-9500

Single tickets $18 Adult $10 Students Season Tickets on Sale May 1

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CONTACT

Shari Forsman Advertising Representative (320) 234-5702 sales@crowriverpress.com

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Contents

APRIL 2013 Vol. 4 No. 2 www.zestforlife.mn PUBLISHED BY Litchfield Independent Review P.O. Box 921, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3266

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Hutchinson Leader 170 Shady Ridge Road NW, Suite 100 Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5000

story: Litchfield Area Male Chorus 16 Cover has been singing for audiences since 1964 Money Matters: Learn what couples should consider before retiring at the same time

PUBLISHER Brent Schacherer schacherer@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4143

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EDITOR Juliana Thill thill@independentreview.net 320-593-4808 Litchfield office 320-234-4172 Hutchinson office

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jenny Berg

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Shari Forsman sales@crowriverpress.com 320-234-5702 AD DESIGNERS Laura Knodel, Barb Laidlaw, Jill Smith, Shannon Streich

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COVER DESIGNER Marne Long SUBSCRIPTION OR ADDRESS CHANGE Sarah Bauman, 320-234-4162 bauman@hutchinsonleader.com

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Feature story: Rennie Malinski will continue to paint porcelain pieces after closing her store

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In the news: Use of food shelves rises among seniors

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In the news: Alzheimer’s study needs volunteers

PRINTED BY Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 Zest is published monthly by the Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader newspapers. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

13 Social Security: Website allows people to estimate retirement benefits 22 Recipes: Crunchy Pecan Shortbread bars, Pecan and Pepper Chicken Burritos, APRIL 2013 | ZEST

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A warm hello

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ecause I can’t carry a tune, I am always impressed by people who can sing well, and more importantly, share their talent with others.

This month, we feature the Litchfield Area Male Chorus, and I have to say, it is hard for me to capture in words how this group sounds in person.

The sound emanating from these tenor, bass and baritone voices is phenomenal. I’ve heard them in concert and always come away impressed. Recently, I attended one of their rehearsals, and at one point, director Randy Wilson had the men stand in a circle and sing. One of the members ushered me into the center with Wilson to hear fully their gift for singing. The stereo effect was incredible and almost brought tears to my eyes. This group of men, which range in age from 30 to 88, but tend to lean more toward the 50 and older crowd, will perform May 5 in Litchfield, and I encourage readers to attend and hear the group for themselves. The fact that this group has remained intact since 1964 — though many members have come and gone — is a testament to the Male Chorus members’ dedication and enjoyment of singing, the leadership of the group and the loyalty of their audiences.

On another note, no pun intended, it’s interesting how food can conjure up fond memories. I was at the store the other day and noticed a loaf of freshly baked, caraway rye bread on the shelf. I recalled times when I was a young

girl and my dad brought home a loaf this bread from a St. Paul bakery. It was a treat for us, and we savored every bite. I couldn’t pass up the loaf in the store, so I bought it, brought it home and made myself a sandwich with it while thinking of my late father.

In searching for recipes for this month’s magazine, I realized that there is no official holiday on which to capitalize — St. Patrick’s Day, Passover and Easter were in March. While Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day and Memorial Day are in May. But this year, April sits empty on the calendar in regard to food-related options. So, I went in search of special days in April and came across a list of unique holidays for the month. I learned April 2 is National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day (one of my favorite kinds of sandwiches), April 7 is National Caramel Popcorn Day, April 14 is National Pecan Day, April 16 is National Eggs Benedict Day, April 17 is National Cheeseball Day (this is for you, Bruce Cottington), and the list goes on. I like pecans, so I found recipes for Pecan and Pepper Chicken Burritos, as well as Crunchy Pecan Shortbread Bars. Enjoy the day!

— Juliana Thill

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In the news

Surgical guidelines published for older adults New comprehensive guidelines for the preoperative care of older adults have been issued by the American College of Surgeons and the American Geriatrics Society with support from the John A. Hartford Foundation.

The joint guidelines, published in the October issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, apply to every patient who is 65 years and older as defined by Medicare regulations. The guidelines are the culmination of two years of research and analysis by a multidisciplinary expert panel representing the ACS and AGS, as well as by expert representatives from a range of medical specialties.

While people over the age of 65 account for about 13 percent of the U.S. population, they undergo almost 40 percent of all surgical procedures. Additionally, older adults are more likely to suffer a range of post-operative complications than any other age group.

The ACS/AGS Best Practices Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations that will identify high-risk patients, improve com-

munication between surgeons and patients, and potentially prevent perioperative adverse events in older adults.

While this best practice guideline is meant to help surgical teams, proceduralists, and anesthesiologists in their care of older patients, it is not a substitution for clinical judgment and experience.

The guidelines recommend and specify 13 key issues of preoperative assessment for seniors: N Cognitive impairment and dementia N Decision-making capacity N Postoperative delirium N Alcohol and substance abuse N Cardiac evaluation N Pulmonary evaluation N Functional status, mobility, and fall risk N Frailty N Nutritional status N Medication management N Patient counseling N Patient-family and social support system N Preoperative testing.

For more information go online to www.americangeriatrics.org.

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• New Treatments for Macular Degeneration • Eyelid Surgery N02351 Z

APRIL 2013 | ZEST

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Coming events ‘Hot Property’ runs two weekends Hutchinson Theatre Co. presents “Hot Property” April 4-6 and April 11-13 at Hutchinson Center for the Arts, 15 Franklin St. SW, Hutchinson.

Laughter, mistaken identities, and even a sting conspire to make this an irresistible comedy. Jamie’s mother was an author and before she died she wrote the sensational and sensuous life history of “Inez,” which is fast becoming a best-seller, but crafty Spencer Layton got hold of the manuscript and had it published with him as author. Jamie and his fiance, Kay, are about to give up when Albertine Johnson, a character actress, appears fresh from a fire which canceled a week’s engagement of her touring company. She and her fellow thespians assume other identities and act their hearts out to defeat Spencer. Albertine enters as the notorious Inez to persuade Spencer that Inez is real and will sue him for slander. When the real publisher shows up, the sting gets out of hand but plot twists and the inventiveness of actors makes for a happily hilarious ending. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.; show time is at 7 p.m. each day. Cost is $18 per tick-

Crow River Singers plan spring concert Crow River Singers, an area community choir, will perform a spring concert from 7 to 8 p.m. April 19 at First Congregational Church, 31 Fourth Ave. SW, Hutchinson.

Crow River Singers, under the direction of Paul Otte, will perform music through the history of the nation. Cost is $7 per person, free for children 12 and younger.

Crow River Singers welcomes new members. The group rehearses from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays. All ages and abilities are welcome. There are no auditions. A $20 participation fee is suggested but not required to participate.

For more information, contact project director Holly Dapper at 320-587-0710.

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Spring is right around the corner! Visit Edgewood Gables and put your worries aside.

For more information contact Eric Johnson at (320) 286-3120 or at ejohnson@ll.net 600 East Third St. • Cokato, MN 55321 • www.cokato-senior-care.org

Holland Tulip Festival ..........................................May 9-12 Milwaukee ..............................................................May 14-17 Shipshewana ........................................................May 20-23 Niagara Falls...........................................................June 3-10 Yellowstone/Tetons...........................................June 12-18 Black Hills.............................................................June 20-23 Medora...................................................................June 24-26 New York City .............................................June 25-July 3 Alaska Land and Cruise .......................June 28-July 10 Alaska Explorer.......................................................July 1-10 Canadian Rockies ..................................................July 8-16 Alaska Circle..........................................................July 10-17 Colorado Trains.......................................July 31-August 9 Alaska Fishing .....................................................August 2-7 Folklorama ..........................................................August 7-10 Oregon/California .........................................August 14-25 Nova Scotia................................................September 7-20 Mackinac Island.....................................September 11-14 National Park ..........................................September 17-27 CALL FOR PICK UPS IN YOUR AREA

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The Fabulous Armadillos and Collective Unconscious will present “Takin’ it to the Limit A Tribute to the Eagles,” at 7 p.m. Friday, April 26 at Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center, 4852 Reardon Ave. SW, Cokato.

Tickets go on sale April 1 and are $25 for adults, and $4 for youth 18 and younger.

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Bands will perform tribute to Eagles

R I L E Y ’S

“Making Life Pleasant for Residents”

Set up a visit personal today!

et. Tickets are available at the Hutchinson Chamber & Tourism office and the Hutchinson Center for the Arts.

In the news

Use of food shelves rises among senior citizens

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innesota wrapped up its annual food drive in March, and the need for donations remains strong among all sectors — senior citizens, individuals and families.

Each year, Minnesota FoodShare directs the March Campaign, the largest food drive in the state and restocks almost 300 food shelves across the state. In addition, the Minnesota Department of Human Services works with Hunger Solutions Minnesota to distribute the food to food shelves. These local food shelves provide food to individuals and families suffering from hunger.

Senior citizens and working families increasingly visited food shelves from 2000 to 2011. High housing costs, prescription drug costs and unemployment are cited by these populations as reasons for increased reliance on emergency food sources.

Already at record highs, food shelf visits increased by about 9 percent in 2011.

In Minnesota: N Food shelves distributed more than 70 million pounds of food in 2011.

N About 47 percent of those served in 2011 were senior citizens and children under the age of 18.

N More than 50 percent of the households using food shelves were families with children.

Program eligibility Food shelves are available to all who identify themselves as being in need. They might be asked to register.

Households with incomes that do not exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible. Those identifying themselves as “in crisis” are not required to prove income or residence.

For more information, contact: N McLeod County Emergency Foodshelf — in Hutchinson at 320-587-4796, or in Glencoe at 320-864-2088.

N Meeker County Foodshelf — in Litchfield at 320-693-7661, or in Dassel at 320-275-0124.

N Minnesota Department of Human Services’ Office of Economic Opportunity at 651-431-3821.

— By Juliana Thill, editor

Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day:

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Enjoy free coffee and cookies!

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In the news

Alzheimer’s caregivers can fight the disease One of the largest studies on Alzheimer’s disease is slowed by the lack of patient volunteers. The study is active at U.S. research centers, including Mayo Clinic.

BY FAMILY FEATURES

C

aring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is challenging under the best of circumstances.

Across the United States, more than 5 million people age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease. And more than 15 million more Americans — family members, friends, neighbors and volunteers — provide unpaid care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.

What makes this disease particularly heartbreaking is feeling helpless against it — there’s no way to prevent Alzheimer’s, keep it from progressing, or cure it. But there are ways for caregivers, and the patients and loved ones they care for, to help in the fight against Alzheimer’s. One of the most important is through the act of volunteering in Alzheimer’s research studies.

“I am a wife, as well as a full-time caregiver to my husband who was diagnosed at the age of 65. It was only eight years into our marriage,” said Elisabeth Paine. “One of the most important roles I have taken on during this journey is as an Alzheimer’s study partner.”

Paine has been volunteering with her husband, who recently participated in a clinical trial at Yale University.

“Caregivers are a crucial part of the solution to finding better treatments faster. We can help enroll our AD patients, and give them and ourselves access to the best medical specialists in the field,” Paine said.

One study which is helping spur new discoveries is being slowed by a lack of Alzheimer’s patient volunteers.

The Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative is the largest and most comprehensive research effort on Alzheimer’s disease to date, and is offering the data it gathers to scientists around the globe to inform and speed new treatments. There are a number of ongoing clinical trials, and many more about to start, aimed at slowing disease progression with drug treatment. All of these trials are using the diagnostic methods developed through ADNI. If the availability of ADNI data is slowed down, it slows down the entire field.

The study is active at 55 research centers in the United States, including Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and is seeking to recruit clinical trial volunteers between the

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FAMILY FEATURES

Caregiver Elisabeth Paine takes control by volunteering for Alzheimer’s research with her husband. ages of 55 and 90 with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

“Effective medical research is our best hope in Alzheimer’s. And participating in studies is one important way caregivers can help,” said Dr. Michael Weiner, primary investigator of ADNI, as well as a caregiver to his 96-year old mother with Alzheimer’s disease. “It takes everybody’s involvement — researchers, doctors, patients, friends, family members, trial participants and caregivers — to fight this disease.”

To volunteer or learn more about the ADNI study, contact the National Institute on Aging’s Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center at 800-438-4380, or visit www.adni-info.org.

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Feature story Rennie Malinski, who ran Rennie’s China Closet & Arts in downtown Litchfield for 10 years, holds one of her locally known hand-painted porcelain shoes. Malinski, 82, planned to close her store at the end of March.

PHOTOS BY JENNY BERG

Customers of Rennie’s China Closet & Arts in Litchfield won’t let owner Rennie Malinski retire completely. After 10 years, she will close her store, where she has made and sold her hand-painted porcelain plates, dishes, tea cups and baby booties. However due to popular demand, she has agreed to take orders for more of her work.

Continuing her passion for painting porcelain

By Jenny Berg CONTRIBUTING WRITER

W

hile the closing of a beloved downtown business often brings sorrow or a bit of nostalgia to community members, the closing of Rennie’s China Closet & Arts caused a different reaction from some people — panic.

“The biggest panic is the shoes I’ve been painting. People

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come in asking where they’ll get them now,” said store owner Rennie Malinski of the hand-painted porcelain shoes or baby booties customers often buy as gifts for newborns.

“They want those shoes. That’s what created the biggest stir when I decided to quit.”

Malinski, 82, has been at her Litchfield store six days a week for the past 10 years. She decided in January to retire and close her downtown shop, which is known for selling paintings and crafts from local artists, including her own

Feature story COORDINATED REFILL PROGRAM

To create her porcelain pieces such as tea cups, saucers and thimbles, Rennie Malinski uses a special porcelain paint made of ground glass that fuses to the porcelain when heated in a kiln. hand-painted porcelain.

Malinski started creating hand-painted porcelain pieces, what she calls the “antiques of tomorrow,” in 1975 after seeing a woman at the Minnesota State Fair paint a bluebird on a plate.

Malinski paints on all sorts of porcelain pieces, including plates, cups, saucers, vases, doll dishes, tea pots, bells and Although Rennie piggy banks. But the most Malinski is closing popular pieces are her porceRennie’s China Closet & lain baby shoes, she said.

Arts in Litchfield, she will take orders for “Right away I started doing hand-painted porcelain the shoes,” Malinski said, shoes or other pieces. noting she orders the porceCustomers can contact lain shoes eight dozen at a her at 320-693-2960. time, and has made hundreds over the years.

She has received many shoe order requests since announcing plans to close her store, and said she plans to fulfill those and continue taking orders for hand-painted porcelain.

To create her porcelain pieces, Malinski uses a special porcelain paint made of ground glass that fuses to the porcelain when heated in a kiln. For some designs, she fires the porcelain five or six times before it is completed.

“It’s something that will be a lost art,” Malinski said of painted porcelain, noting the younger generations do not collect and display porcelain like the older generations do.

Malinski had hoped to close the store by the end of February, but extended the date to the end of March.

The people are what Malinski will miss the most about running a business, she said. “I’ve met so many nice people. I have just enjoyed being here and I will miss the connection with the people.”

Hand-painted porcelain

Jenny Berg is a staff writer for the Litchfield Independent Review.

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Money matters

Take steps to manage personal finances

By Jason Alderman Whether it was a New Year’s resolution that you haven’t yet accomplished or something on your to-do list for a while, here are some ways to better manage your personal finances.

The first step on the road to financial health is to create a budget you can live with. Start slowly, and for a few months write down every cent you spend: mortgage/rent, utilities, food, gas, medical copayments, credit card interest — the works. You’ll be surprised where your money goes.

At the same time, compare money coming in (income) to money going out (expenses). If you’re just breaking even or losing money each month, you need to boost your income and/or aggressively trim spending.

Try these strategies:

N Pay bills on time and send at least the minimum amount due.

N Balance your checking account regularly and use in-network ATMs to avoid overdrafts and fees.

N If your employer offers flexible spending accounts, use them to pay health and dependent-care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

N Raise insurance deductibles and shop around for better rates.

Once you start reducing expenses, use the savings to pay down debts more quickly.

Another smart move is to have an emergency fund in case of financial upheaval (layoff, medical emergency, unexpected car repairs, etc.) Ideally you should save enough to cover six months’ of expenses, but don’t be discouraged if that sounds insurmountable: Start slowly by saving a few dollars each week.

If something terrible happened to you, would your family be protected financially? Make sure you have a valid will, durable power of attorney, health care proxy and living will.

Numerous books, online articles and sample forms are available if you want to draft them yourself, but you should probably review your documents with a financial adviser or attorney to avoid potential legal problems. Also, make sure you have adequate life and disability insurance.

If you’re not already participating in your employer’s 401(k) plan or an IRA, make sure to do so.

Striving to improve your financial situation now will pay off down the road.

Jason Alderman is senior director of financial education programs at Visa Inc.

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For information or to arrange a tour, call Kristal Ehrke at 320-234-0873

Social Security

Social Security’s website allows people to estimate retirement benefits

By Jon Noyes DISTRICT MANAGER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Q

uestion: How can I get an estimate of my retirement benefits?

Answer: Use our online Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. There, you can enter certain identifying information about yourself, including your name, date of birth, Social Security number, place of birth, and mother’s maiden name.

If the personal information you provide matches our records, you can enter your expected retirement age and future wages. The online application will combine your earnings data Social Security has and provide you a quick and reliable online benefit estimate. You can even enter different “what if” scenarios to find out what your benefits will be in different situations.

A Spanish-language Retirement Estimator is available at www.segurosocial.gov/calculador.

In addition, you can obtain your online Social Security Statement, which provides estimates of future benefits as well as a record of your earnings to make sure your past earnings are reported correctly. Find the online Statement at www.socialsecurity.gov/statement.

Q

uestion: I’m 65, not ready to retire, but I want to apply for my Medicare coverage. How can I do that?

Answer: The easiest and most convenient way is to apply online. Use our online application to sign up for Medicare. It takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation is required.

Social Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. Otherwise you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail. It’s convenient, quick, and easy. There’s no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative. Get started today at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly.

Jon Noyes is a district manager for the Social Security Administration, St. Cloud (Minn.) District, 3800 Veterans Drive, Suite 100, St. Cloud; telephone 877-405-1446, ext.

27141.

APRIL 2013 | ZEST

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Money matters

Retiring together doesn’t always make financial sense

Before retiring, couples should ask tough questions, talk about wishes, estimate retirement income needs

B

ack when people from my parents’ generation were first planning their lives together, most married couples looked forward to working hard for a few decades, buying a house, raising a family and then retiring together while they still had enough money and energy to travel and pursue favorite hobbies.

Some couples do manage to pull this off and thrive; but for many others, any of a host of obstacles can block their ability to retire at the same time. For example: I Thanks to periods of unemployment, home-value decline or 401(k) account loss suffered during the Great Recession, many couples simply don’t have enough money to retire together comfortably.

I If there’s a significant age differ-

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Jason Alderman Senior director of financial education programs at Visa Inc. ence, one spouse might not have accumulated enough Social Security credits to qualify for a benefit by the time the other is ready to retire.

I Women often worry that the couple hasn’t saved enough since they’re statistically likely to survive their spouses — often for a decade or more.

I One spouse must continue working to supply employer-provided medical coverage until both reach Medicare eligibility age (65 in most

cases).

I One spouse is just hitting his or her stride, career-wise, and isn’t ready to slow down.

Among couples who have managed to save enough to retire together, when it comes time to pull the trigger many realize they haven’t fully agreed on where or how to retire; or they discover that their wishes have diverged over the years. This can put tremendous strain on a marriage if you’re not willing to compromise and talk things through.

Long before you actually retire, ask yourselves: I Should we downsize to a smaller dwelling or even move to a retirement community?

I Sell the house, buy a trailer and live like nomads for a few years?

I Move to a warmer climate or to be

Money matters nearer our grandchildren?

I Move to a state with lower taxes or cost of living?

I Start a small side business to keep money rolling in?

I Are we finished supporting our children financially?

Even before asking those tough questions, you already should have begun estimating your retirement income needs. Social Security has a helpful online Retirement Estimator that can help (www.ssa.gov/estimator).

After you’ve explored various retirement scenarios, consider hiring a financial planner to help work out an investment and savings game plan, or to at least review the one you’ve devised.

Along with the financial impact retirement will have on your marriage, keep in mind that this may be the first time that you’ve been together, day in and day out. Many people are so consumed by their jobs that they haven’t taken time to develop outside interests and hobbies. Well before retirement, you and your spouse should start exploring activities and networks of friends you can enjoy, both together and independently. Consider things like volunteer work, hobbies, athletic activities or even part-time employment if you miss the workplace interaction and need the money.

And finally, if your plan is to have one spouse continue working for a while, try living on only that one salary for a few months before retiring as an experiment. This will give you an inkling of how well you’ll do financially and whether you might both need to keep working to amass more savings.

Financial Focus® Take Advantage of Higher IRA Contribution Limits For the first time since 2008, contribution limits have risen for one of the most popular retirement savings vehicles available: the IRA. This means you’ve got a greater opportunity to put more money away for your “golden years.”

Effective earlier this year, you can now put in up to $5,500 (up from $5,000 in 2012) to a traditional or Roth IRA when you make your 2013 contribution. And if you’re 50 or older, you can put in an additional $1,000 above the new contribution limit.

Over time, the extra sums from the higher contribution limits can add up. Consider this example: If you put in $5,000 per year to an IRA for 30 years, and you earned a hypothetical 7% per year, you’d wind up with slightly over $505,000. But if you contributed $5,500 per year for those same 30 years, and earned that same 7% per year, you’d accumulate almost $556,000 — about $51,000 more than with the lower contribution limit.

Keep in mind that if you have invested the above amounts in a traditional, tax-deferred IRA, you’ll be taxed on your withdrawals at your ordinary income tax rate. With a Roth IRA, your contributions are made with after-tax funds, but your withdrawals have the potential to be tax-free — provided you’ve had your account at least five years and don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59 1/2. (Not everyone is eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA, as income limits apply.)

If you have an IRA, you already know its advantages. If you aren’t investing in an IRA, you should be aware of these key benefits: • Tax-deferred growth — A traditional IRA can provide tax-deferred growth while a Roth IRA can potentially grow tax-free, provided you meet the conditions described above. To get a sense of just how valuable these tax advantages are, consider this example: If you put in $5,500 per year (the new IRA maximum) for 30 years to a hypothetical investment that earned 7% a year, but on which you paid taxes every year (at the 25% tax bracket), you’d end up with slightly more than $401,000 — about $155,000 less than what you’d accumulate in an IRA. As mentioned above, you will eventually have to pay taxes on your traditional IRA withdrawals, but by the time you do, you might be in a lower tax bracket. Furthermore, depending on your income level, some of your contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax-deductible. (Roth IRA contributions are not deductible.)

• Variety of investment options — You can invest your funds within your IRA in many types of investments — stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit (CDs), U.S. Treasury securities and so on. In fact, within your IRA, you can create a mix of investments that are suitable for your risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term goals. Of course, investing always carries some risks, including loss of principal — but the risk of not investing may be greater, in terms of not having enough assets for retirement.

Here’s one more point to keep in mind: The earlier in the year you “max out” on your IRA contributions, the more time you’ll give your account to potentially grow. By reaching the new, higher contribution limits, and by fully funding your IRA as early in each year as possible, you can help yourself take full advantage of this powerful retirement savings tool.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Patrick Chapman AAMS Financial Advisor 205 Jefferson St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-4900 • 800-441-4901

www.edwardjones.com

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APRIL 2013 | ZEST

15

Cover story

STAFF PHOTOS BY JULIANA THILL

Randy Wilson directs the Litchfield Area Male Chorus with accompaniament by Judy Zylstra during its fall concert.The late Bruce Christensen established the Male Chorus in 1964, and served as director for several decades. For the past 12 years,Wilson has directed the group, which still has one charter member.

A singing group with staying power Litchfield Area Male Chorus started in 1964 and has continued through the decades as a result of strong leadership, dedicated singers and loyal audiences 16

ZEST | APRIL 2013

By Juliana Thill EDITOR

T

he 40 or so men gathered in the room come from different backgrounds, work in different professions, believe in different religions, live in different cities and reflect different ages.

Yet, the common thread that ties these men together and inspires them to meet each week is their appreciation of music and enjoyment of singing.

As a result, their deep, rich, clear voices, on key and filled with passion, are the hallmark of the Litchfield Area Male Chorus.

And while the age spectrum tends to lean more toward the 50 and older crowd, “they’re not a bunch of old men,” director Randy Wilson said emphatically. “That’s what’s really cool. They’re a bunch of men who are active and who continue to sing and improve.”

Cover story The sound of these men singing — The men now dress is black tuxes whether it’s show tunes, sacred music with bow ties and vests when they They’re not a or patriotic songs — with their tenor, perform concerts near and far, howevbaritone and bass voices commands er, they started with less formal bunch of old attention. Performing quality music attire, Thorpe said. “We wore brown is a goal the Litchfield Area Male suits,” he recalled. men. They’re a bunch Chorus has strived for and achieved The number of men in the Chorus since its inception in 1964. has swelled and contracted through of men who are active The staying power of the Male the years. In its heyday, the chorus and who continue to Chorus through five decades can be reached a high of 60 members in the attributed to strong musical leader1970s. Lately, the group has had 35 to sing and improve. ship, dedicated singers and loyal 40 members, with 37 members curaudiences. rently.

RANDY WILSON, While Wilson has been director for To join the group — and the Male Litchfield Area Male Chorus director about 12 years, Bruce Christensen Chorus is always recruiting members formed the group and remained as — the requirements are minimal, director for several decades before other than to attend as many retiring. Half a century after its rehearsals as possible on Thursday inception, the latest Litchfield Area Male Chorus carries nights in the fall and spring. Men don’t need experience in forward the same dedication that the original group startmusic or singing, however many members have sung in ed with under Christensen’s leadership. school, college or church choirs.

And of the original 16 men who formed the Male “A lot of the guys don’t read music. They follow the guy Chorus, one charter member remains — Rand Thorpe, 73, next to them,” said Male Chorus member Mike Zylstra. of Litchfield, who joined when he was in his early 20s.

“Very few have any formal training at all. That’s part of “It’s been quite a time,” Thorpe said while sitting in the the charm of this group.” back of the Litchfield High School choir room one evening As the Litchfield Area Male Chorus’ name suggests, the before rehearsal began. “I’ve made a lot of friends.” men who are part of this group hail from Litchfield and

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Cover story

Litchfield Area Male Chorus, while under the direction of Bruce Christensen, recorded several records. towns within about a 40-mile radius “It’s fun singing at the concerts, and — as far north as Eden Valley, and as practices are fun,” he said. far south as Glencoe, and from Part of the reason Levinski has Belgrade in the west to Howard Lake stayed is for the camaraderie. to the east.

“I used to call it my social life,” he Who: All men are welcome to join Another part of the unique quality said. and sing with the Litchfield Area Male of the group is its age range, with The Male Chorus typically rehearsChorus. members as young as 30 and as es every Thursday night in the fall When: Rehearsals take place from young-at-heart as 88. leading up to a late fall performance.

7 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday in the fall and spring.

Not only does the group’s age have Members take time off in the winter, Where: The chorus rehearses at vast range, so does the background of and return in the spring to start the Litchfield High School choir room the members, Zylstra said. rehearsing new songs in time for a and performs at various venues.

While some members are spring performance. Then, they take Dues: $50 annually employed, many members are retired the summer off. In addition to the ’ For more information: Contact from occupations such as farmer, confall and spring performances, they director Randy Wilson at 320-864struction worker, pilot, teacher, as sing at other events such as Relay 5406 or Male Chorus member Mike well as religious — including one For Life and annual business meetZylstra at 320-593-3635. priest and three pastors. ings, as well as at nursing homes.

“So, we’re well blessed from that The music the group sings varies point of view,” added Zylstra, who is each season. Their spring one of the pastors.

“Celebrating Musicals” concert will be May 5 at Zion Zylstra, 51, joined the chorus in 1992 after moving to Lutheran Church in Litchfield. The first half of the conLitchfield. cert will feature a mini musical called “The Reluctant “I was looking for a way to connect with people. I’ve Dragon,” followed by songs from various musicals. always loved to sing, and I thought I’d give it a try,” he “We’re trying to be storytellers,” Wilson said. said. He took a few years off when his children’s school Every other year, the Male Chorus performs in other activities conflicted with rehearsals, but then rejoined. His states such as Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Georgia. wife, Judy, has been the Male Chorus’ accompanist since In 1980, the Male Chorus traveled to Denmark, Germany, 2005. and Switzerland touring and performing.

The chorus is divided into four vocal ranges — tenor I, Lee Rosenquist, 75, of Cokato joined the chorus in 1997 tenor II, baritone and bass. With enough sheet music for after retiring from teaching math and science at Dassel16 to 60 men, the amount of music the Male Chorus has Cokato schools for more than 30 years. acquired has added up over the years.

“I was always interested in singing, but I was not good Jim Levinski, 60, of Darwin manages the chorus’ music enough to join a good group,” he said with a laugh. library at Bethany Home in Litchfield, where more than “Bruce Christensen was tuning pianos at the school and 500 pieces of music are stored. said, ‘Come sing with us,’” said Rosenquist, who took “I collect it all, sort it and save it, and get it when they Christensen up on the offer. “I was running out of things ask for it,” he said. An interesting element he has noticed to keep me busy.” is how the cost of music has increased over the years.

He has enjoyed rehearsing, performances and the trav“There’s the first pieces of music for 25 cents, up to $2 el. He recalled one highlight was when they sang at a now. Prices have really changed,” he said. church in New Orleans. “We were singing ‘When the Levinski has been singing with the chorus since 2001.

Saints Go Marching In,’ and people stood up and clapped

Becoming a chorus member

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ZEST | APRIL 2013

Cover story along,” he said.

He has stayed with the chorus for 15 years because, “I enjoy singing. It’s a good night out with the boys,” he said with a smile, but then quickly admitted most of the boys are too old to cause trouble after rehearsal. “Nothing happens afterward, we just go home.”

With Wilson directing, there’s little time for socializing, Rosenquist said. “We’re pretty much singing all the way through. He says rehearsal is from 7 to 8:30, and it starts at 7 and ends at 8:30. It’s all business. We work hard.”

The socializing, instead happens as the men are gathering for rehearsal, afterward as they pack up their sheet music and grab their coats, before or after performances, after funerals, and especially when they travel with spouses on longer trips to perform outstate.

Art Ellson, 60, joined the Male Chorus more than 30 years ago after a little persuasion from others.

“I tended bar at the time, and some of the customers talked me into it,” Ellson said. That was 1977, and Ellson hasn’t regretted his decision.

“It’s fun,” he said, adding he’s developed some close friendships with fellow choral memWhat: Litchfield Area bers. “Singing is a lot of Male Chorus will perform its fun for me.” spring concert, “Celebrating Through the years, Musicals,” with songs from though, Ellson has seen different musicals, including “Music Man,” “Carousel,” Male Chorus members “Les Miserables,” “Shrek come and go, and sadly The Musical” and has sung at many of “Ragtime.” The first half of their funerals, including the concert will feature a at Christensen’s in 2010. mini musical called “The “That was tough. We Reluctant Dragon.” were good friends. I knew When: 3 p.m. Sunday, his family and knew his May 5 Where: Zion Lutheran kids. He had a baton the Church, 504 Gilman Ave. chorus had given him N., Litchfield when he retired the first Cost: $5 at the door time. It was in a case, and Bruce’s son gave it to me and asked me to direct the Chorus at the funeral. It was emotional. That was hard to do,” said Ellson, his voice cracking.

After Christensen’s retirement, “I was worried how we would replace him,” Ellson said. “It would be different (without him), and I was afraid the Chorus would disappear.”

The Male Chorus searched for a new director. Wilson, 54, interviewed for the job and was hired.

“I’ve heard them say, we found our director but we hired her husband,” he said with a laugh.

Wilson, who also is mayor of Glencoe, was no stranger to the Male Chorus.

“My father had been a member for years, and I’ve known about them since I was a kid,” Wilson said.

In addition to directing the Male Chorus, he directs two other choirs, gives voice lessons, and has directed community theater musicals in Glencoe, Hutchinson and Dassel-

Litchfield Area Male Chorus spring concert

The Litchfield Area Male Chorus started with 16 men, at one point reached 60 members, and now has 37.

Cokato.

“Randy has done a wonderful job. We are really fortunate to get him,” Ellson said.

“It’s not easy to direct a bunch of adults. It’s easier directing a high school choir than adults. Maybe we’re not as rowdy, but we’re not used to listening to people and doing what we’re told,” Ellson said with a laugh.

Because many Male Chorus members lack formal musical training, he said, “it’s hard to know how to get better.”

However, during rehearsals, Wilson can hear where the members need to improve, and helps them nail the right note in the right key at the right moment.

As a result, “we have been improving consistently year after year,” Ellson said.

Wilson is quick to deflect the spotlight back onto the men.

“This is fun,” he said, because the men who show up for rehearsal are there because they want to sing. He doesn’t require members attend every rehearsal because he understands work and personal conflicts are unavoidable.

He believes the men are better singers because they appreciate the flexibility, and focus on the task at hand when they’re at rehearsal.

“We have really good people here, and I’d rather have them come and work when they’re here. That allows the quality of the Chorus to improve,” Wilson said. “They work hard. They enjoy it, and I hope the audience enjoys it, too.”

APRIL 2013 | ZEST

19

Health

Knee replacement can be reasonable option for older adults United States sees rise in the number of knee replacements being done for people 65 and older

People should talk to their doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of knee replacement.

In many cases, knee replacement can help people regain mobility and return to activities they enjoy.

Dear Mayo Clinic: I am 72 years old and need a knee replacement. Is this safe at my age?

Will I be able to do the same activities after I have recovered from surgery?

Answer: If you are otherwise in good health, knee replacement surgery can be a reasonable option for someone your age. It should only be used if other nonsurgical treatment approaches have not worked for your knee problems, though.

As with any surgery, knee replacement involves some risks. But for many people, this surgery offers a good opportunity to return to an active lifestyle. Knee replacement surgery is most often used to repair joint damage caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis that causes knee pain and makes it hard to do daily activities. During knee replacement, a surgeon cuts away the damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone and kneecap and replaces it with an artificial joint.

The number of knee replacements done for people 65 and older in the United States has risen sharply, with the rate of these surgeries almost doubling in the past several decades.

There are a variety of reasons for the increase.

First, arthritis is a condition that affects older adults much more commonly than younger people. The U.S. population overall is aging, so there are many people over the age of 60 who have knee arthritis. Second, many of today’s older adults were quite active throughout their lives and into their 40s and 50s. Although an active lifestyle is good for your

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ZEST | APRIL 2013

health, it can wear out your knees.

Of course many of these people, like you, want to stay active into their later years, too. It’s not uncommon to see 80-year-olds and even 90-yearolds with symptomatic knee arthritis that they want treated, so they can return to their usual activities.

Knee replacement surgery can help.

But you should try treatment options that don’t involve surgery first.

Changing your exercise routine to include low-impact activities, such as swimming and walking, rather than high-impact activities such as running, can help relieve some knee pain.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for your knees, as every extra pound puts additional strain on your joints. Overthe-counter and prescription pain medications can be useful, as can steroid injections. If you have not tried these treatments yet, talk to your doctor about them.

If you still have significant knee pain despite these measures, then knee replacement surgery might be the right approach. Recovery after surgery is quicker than it used to be because anesthetic techniques and postoperative pain control have improved in the past 10 to 15 years.

The surgical technique now used allows people to get up and start mov-

ing almost immediately after surgery.

I’ve seen some patients return to the swimming pool or use a stationary bike as soon as two weeks after knee replacement surgery. Complete recovery usually takes about a year. But in many cases, people can go back to doing most of the activities they normally do in about four to six weeks.

Most people can expect to eventually be able to return to activities such as dancing, swimming, biking and hiking.

As with all surgeries, knee replacement does come with some risks, including blood clots and infection. But the rate of complications associated with knee replacement is small, and doctors can take precautions to minimize the risks. Some people do have stiffness in the knee after surgery, and about 10 to 15 percent of patients experience mild knee bursitis.

Talk to your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of knee replacement. Review your medical history and any other current health problems you have, as well as what you would like to be able to do after the surgery.

In many cases, knee replacement can help people your age regain mobility and return to activities they enjoy.

— Robert Trousdale, M.D., orthopedic surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

Medicare

Changes made to prescription drug coverage Dear Marci, I heard there are some changes to Medicare coverage that took effect in 2013. Will there be changes to Medicare coverage of prescription drugs in 2013?

— Dayle

Dear Dayle, As of Jan. 1, 2013, benzodiazepines and barbiturates, medications that used to be excluded from Medicare coverage, are now covered under Medicare prescription drug plans. Benzodiazepines are covered as a treatment for all medically necessary conditions. However, barbiturates are only covered in 2013 to treat epilepsy, certain cancers and chronic mental health conditions. Check to make sure the barbiturate or benzodiazepine you take is covered on your drug plan’s formulary (list of covered drugs).

Remember, you can get Medicare prescription drug coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare private health plan that provides health and drug coverage) or a stand-alone Part D plan that works with Original Medicare. If you’re unsure of whether your medication is covered by your plan, contact your plan directly. There

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may be different rules and costs for your medication in 2013, depending on the type of drug you take and how your plan covers your medication. Make sure you’re fully aware of how you can access your medications by contacting your plan.

Keep in mind that if your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan does not cover your drug, your plan should provide you with a 30-day transition fill at some time during the first 90 days of the year (until March 31st). A transition fill (also known as a transition refill) is a one-time, 30-day supply of a Medicare-covered drug that Medicare prescription drug plans must cover when you have a new drug plan in 2013 or when the plan that you had in 2012 changes its coverage for 2013.

If your plan does not cover your drug, you should also ask your doctor for help in sending a formal exception request to your plan to cover the drug. You can also talk to your doctor about switching to a drug that is covered by your plan.

— Marci

“Dear Marci” is a service of the Medicare Rights Center, the largest independent source of Medicare information and assistance in the United States. For more information, go online to www. medicarerights.org/.

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Food & Fun Pecan and Pepper Chicken Burritos

chicken; place chicken in a plastic bag. Shake lightly and rub the plastic against the chicken to rub in spices.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the 1/2 teaspoon chili powder chicken pieces in batches, turning 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin once, until chicken is cooked through.

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Transfer to a cutting board and allow 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided to cool slightly. Heat remaining table1 pound thin-sliced boneless, skinspoon oil in same skillet over low less chicken breast heat. Add the garlic and pecans; cook 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided until garlic is softened and pecans 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped are fragrant — about five minutes.

1 cup Georgia pecan halves, Transfer to large bowl. Add peppers coarsely chopped and onion to skillet and increase heat 2 bell peppers (orange, green or to medium-high. Cook, stirring occared), seeded and sliced SOURCE: WWW.CULINARY.NET sionally, until tender-crisp. Season 1 large red onion, sliced in thin with 1/4 teaspoon salt and the pepwedges per; stir into pecan and garlic mixture. Slice the chicken Black pepper crosswise into thin strips and add to vegetables. To serve, 8 flour tortillas (8-inch, soft-taco size) warm the tortillas. Divide chicken, pecan and vegetable Salsa mixture among tortillas, placing the mixture in the center.

Fold up bottom of tortillas to partially cover filling, then Stir together chili powder, cumin, oregano and 1/4 teafold in sides to create a pocket. Serve with salsa. spoon salt. Sprinkle spice mixture evenly over all sides of

Crossword puzzle Across 1. Carried luggage or supplies 9. Chief Pontiac, e.g.

15. Veto 16. Blotto 17. Potherb leaves 18. Stifled, with “down” 19. Deuce topper 20. Cleared as profit 22. “___ Maria” 23. Afflict 24. Appearance 25. Beam 26. Bottom of the barrel 28. Princes, e.g.

29. Produce 30. Mr., in India 31. Sleeping sickness transmitter (2 wds) 33. Cut down 35. Brewer’s equipment 36. Specializing physician 39. Ring bearer, maybe 42. Injured, in a way 43. A chip, maybe 44. Big bore 46. Jewish month 47. European language 48. PC “brain” (acronym) 49. “Dear” one 50. City government heads 52. Attempt 53. Bullhorn 55. Having the most froth

22

ZEST | APRIL 2013

Crossword puzzle answer on Page 23 57. Temper, as metal 58. Mark 59. In a wise manner 60. Blushed

Down 1. Bad way to go?

2. Egg-producing organs 3. Noisy partier 4. “Iliad” city

5. “To ___ is human ...”

6. Archaeological site 7. Charity dependent 8. Preordain 9. Ancient 10. Contemptible one 11. Actor Arnold 12. Dress 13. Having snout beetles 14. Number next to a plus sign 21. Male hormone 25. Having natural talent 27. Female sibling 28. Antares, for one 29. “Absolutely!”

32. Fill 34. ___ Zeppelin 36. ___ Jones, of film fame 37. Coming close 38. To such an extent 40. Precambrian time 41. Comeback 42. Baked buckwheat dishes 45. Hit golf ball lightly toward hole on green 47. Before the due date 50. Breakfast, lunch or dinner 51. Beach, basically 52. Locale 54. “Malcolm X” director 56. ___ Squad, 1960s TV show

Food & Fun

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Crunchy Pecan Shortbread Bars

Mix flour and granulated sugar in medium bowl. Cut in 1/2 cup butter until mixture SOURCE: WWW.CULINARY.NET resembles coarse crumbs. Press crumb mixture firmly on bottom of greased 9-inch square baking pan. Bake at 375 for 20 minutes or until very lightly browned. Mix egg, syrup, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon melted butter and vanilla until well blended. Stir in cereal until well coated. Spread evenly over warm crust. Bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until topping is firm around edges and slightly soft in center. Cool completely on wire rack. Cut into 24 bars. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted semi-sweet baking chocolate, if desired.

Share your favorite recipe If you would like us to publish a favorite recipe from your recipe box, send it to Juliana Thill c/o Zest magazine, 170 Shady Ridge Road, NW, Suite 100, Hutchinson, MN 55350 or drop it off at the Hutchinson Leader or Litchfield Independent Review offices. Please include your name and a phone number if we have questions. We will publish recipes as we have space.

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