zest dec 2010

esTZ50+ Living

December 2010

Out of thewoodworkRichard Swiftbrings ruralhistory to life

Last WordNorb Mohs serveswith gladness

Herecomes

SantaClaus

Herecomes

SantaClaus

Talking with the jolly man in red

2 ZEST / December 2010

The First Alert emergency pendant from McLeod Co-opPower may be just the thing they need to help you worryless while they live on their own. One press of the buttonwill call the 24-hour medical dispatch center, which willsend a family member, neighbor or police over to help.The pendant allows them to work outside in the gardenor go to the mailbox, and still summon help if they needit. Emergency pendants are leased for $30 a month(plus a $49 installation charge).

Do you worry about yourparents getting older?

Do you worry about mom or dad living alone?

1-800-494-6272

Do you worry about yourparents getting older?

Do you worry about mom or dad living alone?

N02144 Z

Complimentary Consultations are available.Please call 651-343-7887 for more information.

or toll free 1-877-407-9130

Customized In-Home Care

For You Or YourLoved Ones.

Provident works withMedicaid, Private Pay andsome insurances.

PROVIDENT HOME HEALTHCARE SPECIALIZES IN: � 3 hours or more per day of

home health aide services� Up to 24 hour nursing

coverage in the home forcomplex needs includingventilators

� Private pay options whichinclude:

� Treatment & Medicationmanagement

� Homemaking services

� Overnight & live-in services

� Scheduling andcoordination of medicalappointments

� Grocery shopping

� 24 hour RN supervisionof direct care givers

� Companionship from3 hours per day up to24/day coverage

N02353

1005 Sibley Ave. N., LitchfieldPh. 320-693-3224 or Toll Free 877-693-3224

www.davismotorsgm.com

0246

7

Check out our selection ofnew and pre-owned vehicles

OIL CHANGE SPECIALAll Day - Every Day$16.99* Oil Change

No coupon necessaryTax and disposal included

Includes up to 5 quarts of oil and filter*Excludes diesels. Extra charges for Synthetic Oil

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL

ZEST / December 2010 3

Contents

4 Opinion: Christmas in Arizona?

6 FEATURE STORY: Heritage rises from woodwork

10 Days Gone By: Winter wonderland

12 COVER STORY: Here comes Santa Claus

16 Comfort Foods: Holiday cheer at the table

18 Medicare Answers: Be alert for signs of fraud

20 Wellness: Coffee is good for the body and mind

21 Wellness: Tips to avoid cold and flu

22 Holiday Central: Gifts that are sure to please

23 Money: Tips on charitable giving

24 Travel: Stay safe during the winter driving season

26 Puzzles

30 Last Word: Norb Mohs serves with gladness

December2010

Vol. 1 No. 10zestforlife.mn

esTZ

Worlds apart

“It’s beginning to look a lot likeChristmas,” but have you ever won-dered how the holiday looks onother parts of the globe?

With our imaginations, let’s take ajourney to explore a pair of holidaytraditions that are markedly unlikeany in the United States.

Our first stop is in my favoritecountry, the United Kingdom, wherea highlight of the season is pan-tomime productions. Commonlyreferred to as pantos, these quirkyplays re-invent classic fairy talesthrough song, dance and audienceparticipation. Families from acrossthe UK travel to some of the area’slargest venues to revel in the pantoexperience. No expense is spared forthis Christmas tradition as some ofthe biggest stars of British stageand screen take part in pantos. Themost popular fairy tales retold

through the brightly colored cos-tumes and layers of face paint areAladdin, Cinderella and Peter Pan.This great family activity is sure onmy list of things to do in the UK oneday.

Moving on, we travel to Italy, adevout Catholic country that cele-brates the Christmas season withelaborate nativity scenes or Cribs.People spend Christmas Evestrolling from scene to scene admir-ing the delicate craftsmanship of theclay figurines. The Italians’ celebra-tion of the holidays stretches to theeve of Jan. 6 (the start of theEpiphany season), when childrenprepare for the arrival of a femaleSanta Claus figure called LaBefana. She brings gifts of all kinds.Legend states the La Befana metthe three wisemen and gave themshelter and directions to Bethlehem.

The holiday theme continues inthis issue of Zest with an exclusive

interview with a Christmas icon.Santa Claus took time out of hisbusy schedule to give you a glimpsebehind the scenes at the North Pole.

Richard Swift seems to have theholiday spirit year round thanks tohis woodworking hobby. In his work-shop, he creates everything fromtrains to tables with great enthusi-asm.

As always I welcome your feed-back and ideas. You can reach mevia email at [email protected] or by sending a letter toHutchinson Leader C/O KatieWinter, 36 Washington Ave. W.,Hutchinson, MN 55350 or LitchfieldIndependent Review C/O KatieWinter, 217 NorthSibley, Litchfield, MN55355.

Happy Holidays!Katie Winter

6

12

30


Opinion

PUBLISHED BY

Litchfield Independent ReviewPO Box 921

Litchfield, MN 55355(320) 693-3266

Hutchinson Leader36 Washington Ave. W.Hutchinson, MN 55350

(320) 587-5000

NEWS

ADVERTISING

Crow River Press170 Shady Ridge Road NW

Hutchinson, MN 55350(320) 587-2062

Katie Winter, [email protected] or [email protected](320) 693-3266 or (320) 234-4172

N020

43 Z

esTZ

Shari Forsman, advertising [email protected]

(320) 234-4171

PRINTED BY

02386

Christmas in Arizona?By Matt McMillan

Retirees face many difficult questions:• When should I retire?• Should I sell the house for one with less upkeep?• What would the kids say if I left for Arizona early and

missed the holidays?After spending an entire lifetime in the frozen north,

some retirees want to go south for the winter as soon asthe snow flies. It makes sense.

But, what will the family say if you are not there for theholidays? How will the grandkids take it?

We’d like to hear from readers how to best handle thissituation. If you’ve done it, was it worth it? How do youcelebrate with family now?

Running this gauntlet is tricky. But, it has been donebefore. You might know people who leave early and pestertheir friends with daily weather reports.

Most families go through it. I remember going toChristmas at my grandparents’ house in northernMinnesota. It was an annual tradition to go to their farm.The trips stopped at some point. After it stopped, grand-ma and grandpa made the rounds as their schedules per-mitted.

Stopping the long tradition might seem daunting. But,the magnetic pull south is also strong.

We’ve heard about one couple in their early 70s goingthrough this exact situation. They’ve hosted every year.But, their best friends leave early. So, why can’t they?Upon hearing about it, one granddaughter said, “That isthe WORST idea EVER.”

Eventually it will happen. Adult children take overhosting duties. It is the transition that is hard.

A good strategy to ease this transition is to ask to cele-brate early. This technique can be especially effective ifgrandchildren are given gifts early.

My wife and I host our retired parents forThanksgiving. Both sides of the family come over. Gettingthe house ready, cooking two large turkeys and cleaningup is more work than we imagined. But, it is nice for ourparents.

At some point, grandparents have cooked enoughturkeys. When is that point? How do you announce it?

Send us a letter with your thoughts about phasing outof hosting the holiday gathering. We’ll publish our favoriteletters next month. Each letter writer selected for publica-tion will receive a free turkey.


N02160 Z

A car dealer for the times in Hutchinson

525 Hwy. 7 EastHutchinson

320-587-2240www.valleyhutchinson.com

Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day:

10% Off Parts Laborin our Service Department.

Enjoy free coffee and cookies!

and

We’ll take the time to explain all services done on your vehicle—we’re happy to answer any questions.

• Sales • Service • Body Shop • Parts

Service TeamWe Service ALL Makes and Models!

Front: (L to R) Alan Olson, Jeremy Crosby, DeWayne Ingebretson andMatt Gruber. Back: Kyle Leidholt, Jonathan Crosby, Ralph Bergsma,

Eric Lee, Jordan Wendorff, Jason Horrmann and Rory Paulson.Not pictured: Beth Wanous.

N02

167

ZEST

Village Cooperative1300 Sherwood St. S.E., Hutchinson320-234-7761www.realifeinc.comwww.villagecoopofhutchinson.blogspot.com

Bedroom

Clos

et Bath

Entr

y

Dining

Kitchen

Living RoomHere’s an attractiveapartment with beautifulviews of the courtyard

693 sq. ft.Walk-In ClosetShare $21,812Monthly fee $523

There is nothing to do but move in, relax andenjoy! Don’t delay—this one won’t last long. Call our Manager for your tour!

A place to call homeApartments for seniors

55 and older

LocalFinds

Old Friend GenuineSheepskin Slippers

These slippers have double suede leather

exterior for a roomy toe area. Hand construction

guarantees quality craftsmanship in

every pair. Available atCarly’s Shoes

Main St., Hutchinsonwww.carlys-shoes.comHours: Mon. 9:30-7:30,

Tue.-Fri. 9:30-5:30,Sat. 10-4

Now, Look Here . . .

The newest collection of writing from the Litchfield Area Writers Group is a 120-page book featuring 55 pieces written by 12 members of the group. Treat yourself or pick one up for the reader on your gift list.$10Available at the Independent Review217 Sibley Ave., N., Litchfield(320) 693-3266

Lost Hutchinson

Fifty-eight structures lost to fire or the wrecking ball are

featured in this 68-page book. Rare old photos offer a glimpse into pioneer life including gravel streets and wooden sidewalks.

$19.95Available at the

Hutchinson Leader36 Washington Ave. W.,

Hutchinson(320) 587-5000

N02462


Feature Story

STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

Richard Swift, of rural Biscay, has been crafting things out of wood since the 1950s, making tables, trains, evena miniature replica of a Heatwole thresher.

Heritage rises outof the woodwork

With tools and timber, Richard Swiftbrings rural history to life


Feature Story

By Katie Winter

If necessity is the motherof invention, RichardSwift should thank

necessity for opening thedoor on a lifetime of enjoy-ment and creativity.

When Swift began work-ing with wood 60 years ago,the aim was to removesome of the stress andstrain of daily farm chores.

“The evolution of makingthings started maybe 60years ago,” Swift said. “Iwas on the farm and weneeded a cattle bunker.There’s two ways to go atit. You can go to the lumberyard and have somebodymake it or you can bringthe lumber out and beat ittogether yourself.”

Today, Swift’s woodwork-ing craft has morphed fromnecessity to preservation. Ifhis creations ever were dis-played in an art gallery, thetitle hanging above itwould read, “A tribute tomechanical ingenuity inoak.”

In his workshop in ruralBiscay, the past comes tolife. With the turn of thelathe and the slice of aband saw, Swift createsworking replicas of farmmachinery from the days ofyore. From hay balers tothreshing machines, thepieces are intricatelydesigned and crafted, withattention paid to everydetail.

“If it won’t work, whatgood is it?” Swift said. “Ithas to be done correctly. Iwas basically self-taughtwith trial and error. Lots ofstuff went over the leftshoulder until I got it right.I feel kind of good becauseit works.”

Each project originates inthe same place: Swift’sdrawing desk, which is

tucked against one wall ofthe shop. Atop it, restspieces of thin brown paperscrawled with pencil linesand tiny written numbers.

“(Do you remember) aMr. Rogers Show? That’skind of what I feel likewhen I come in here,” Swiftsaid. “I take off my one pairof shoes and put on theother ones. I put my lightjacket on and then I’mready for action. There is aplace to draw. That iswhere all the mischief getsstarted. The ideas startthere.”

From the drawing board,Swift transfers his idea tothe raw material. The care-fully selected piece of wood,

destined to become awagon or a chair, then isrun through a variety ofsaws, sanders and lathes.The process can takemonths for some of Swift’smost detailed creations.His threshing machine tooksix months to complete.

“This one took sixmonths to make from thetime I drew the first line onthe paper to putting ittogether,” Swift said. “Imade all the pieces for it. Itdoesn’t go very speedy.”

Swift’s exactness fordetails and authenticitystems from a true passionand respect for the agricul-tural heritage of theMidwest and an apprecia-

tion for the toiling of hisancestors. Not only can herattle off the dimensions ofeach full size model, he alsoknows their history.

“I enjoy the history of it,”Swift said. “I like to makesomething you rememberseeing or remember usingwhen you were a youngsterlike, for instance a hay-mower. My dad had a hay-mower that was pulled byhorses.”

In fact, Swift is so pas-sionate about the context ofhis creations, that in 2004he began boxing up a vari-ety of his woodworkingprojects and taking them toassisted living facilities andsenior centers, where he

Richard Swift’s woodwork creations, including a side rake, hay stacker and a pairof carved horses, are displayed in his shop.


Feature Story

This replica of a hay loader and wagon are special toSwift, who remembers seeing a real one used on hisfather’s farm.

Woodworker Richard Swift holds a pair of nearlyidentical carved horses.The only difference is one istrotting and the other is standing in place.

displayed them. He alsoanswered people’s ques-tions about the creations.

“I give them a little histo-ry on how this (implement)came to be and what it wasdesigned to do,” Swift said.“There was a great interest.These people grew up in anera when some of this stuffwas the only thing. Theyenjoyed it immensely.”

The instinct to createuseful and needed piecesstill burns inside him. Hishome is furnished with endtables, step stools andshelves that add functionand beauty.

Swift lives with his wife,Bernetta. The couplemoved to McLeod Countyin 1999 from the Morrisarea, where the Swiftsfarmed for decades. Themove south brought themcloser to their son, Davidand grandchildren.

After the move, Swifttransplanted his tools fromhis Grant County basementworkshop to a small shedattached to his garage inrural Glencoe. His work-space is heated, insulatedand furnished with work-benches, shelving and stor-age. Each screwdriver, tool-box and finished projecthas its own designatedhook or drawer.

Before retiring in 1990,Swift often did not have thetime to act on many of theideas that ran through hishead. There were fieldswaiting to be planted oranimals expecting to be fed.As Swift phrased it, “priori-ties came first.“ While hishands were in the soil, hismind was churning overfresh woodworking designs.

“This darn, old imagina-tion was still percolating,”Swift said. “In the back ofmy mind I wished I hadtime to put somethingtogether, to create some-thing. Once you’re retired,

you have the chance to sitdown and draw somethingup that you always thoughtabout, but priorities keptpushing it back.”

Once Swift found thattime, he filled it with hoursof perfecting his woodwork-ing skills and obtaining thenecessary tools. He trav-eled miles in search of abargain on a table saw orplating machine. His mostprized find, a turning lathe,cost him $75 at aWashington State garagesale that he stopped atwhile visiting family in thearea.

“I said to my brother-in-law, ‘If you can get it for$75, you take it. We’ll get itto Minnesota somehow,’”Swift said. “After the sale,my brother-in-law and hisson took the turning latheapart and put it in his vanand his son came east to goout to a swap meet inMinneapolis. So on the wayhe dropped off this lathe.It’s about 60 years old, butcast iron don’t deteriorate,so it will last for genera-tions.”

He reads the magazines“Wood” and “Woodsmiths”religiously. (He has 175issues “archived” in hisworkshop.) He often liftsideas from their pages andmelds them with his owncreativity to form some-thing completely different.His prowess with timberand tool extends to makingbookshelves, children’s puz-zles and bowls.

The array of forms Swiftbestows on raw blocks ofoak or ash means a lot tohim.

“I feel a sense of satisfac-tion,” Swift said, “a sense ofaccomplishment thatmaybe I’ve done a littlepart toward helpinghumanity to understandwhere they come from.”

02392


Feature Story

A workbench inRichard Swift’sworkshop displaysthe array ofobjects Swiftdesigns, carves andpieces together. Hehas made every-thing from horsesto coffee tables tosteam shovels.


Days Gone By

When a comfortable, stress-free environment is combined with trained caregivers, people with

Alzheimer’s Disease or related memory disordersexperience a better quality of life.

Prairie Senior Cottages features• 24-Hour On-site Caregivers • Secured Building

• Nutritious Family Style Meals • Specialized Programming• RN Supervision & Case Management

• Medication Supervision • Daily Personal Hygiene• Personal Laundry • Housekeeping

• Personal Transportation • Professional Management

PrairieSeniorCottages, LLC

Built on Preserving Dignity

For more information, call John Peterson.

Prairie Senior Cottages

www.prairieseniorcottages.com

Hutchinson: 320-587-5508Willmar: 320-235-6022

Alexandria: 320-763-8244New Ulm: 507-359-3420 N

0218

3

discount on

Every WEDNESDAY is

SENIOR DAY(60+)

10% Parts & Labor*up to $30 maximum discount; excludes tires.

discount on

Cokato Motors is yourFriendly Hometown

GM Dealership

GM CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS

Every FRIDAY is

LADIES DAY10% Parts & Labor

*up to $30 maximum discount;excludes

tires.

COKATO MOTORS14075 US Hwy. 12 SW — Cokato

Ph. 320-286-2441 Toll Free: 888-485-4807www.cokatomotorsales.com

Carl’s Lunch, apopular cafe at122 Main St. S.in Hutchinson,was decoratedwith evergreenswags and twoChristmas treesduring the holi-day season of1932.

Winter wonderlands

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MCLEOD COUNTY MUSEUM


Days Gone By

301 Ramsey Ave. N. • Litchfield, MN 55355Phone: 320-693-3255 • Fax: 320-693-7429800-893-3255 • www.cnbmn.com

*ATM fee refunds per monthly statement cycle when qualifications are met.**Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of 06/01/10. $50 openingdeposit requied. Rate tiers are as follows: Rewards Rates 4.11% APY appliesto balances of $.01-$15,000 and 0.75% APY paid on balances over $15,000as long as qualifications are met each monthly statement cycle. Base Rate0.25% APY will be earned on all balances if qualifications are not met. Allbalances will earn 4.11% APY to 0.75% APY as long as qualifications aremet. Rates may change after the account is opened. Fees may reduceearnings.

• No minimum balance• No monthly service charge

• Use any ATM nationwide free of charge*

• Earn interest on all your funds

3 EASY REWARDS RATEQUALIFICATIONS EACH CYCLE:

• Make 10 debit card purchases• Set up 1 direct deposit or automatic

payment from your account• Enroll and receive monthly

electronic statements

on balances up to $25,000

4.11%APY**

REWARDSCHECKING

Patent Pending, BancVue, Ltd.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MCLEOD COUNTY MUSEUM

In 1893,April looked more like December inBrownton as Illet’s Hotel was still frosted with snowand ice on April 20.

FILE PHOTOS

(Above) During this particular winter in Grove Citythe conditions were perfect for sledding or snowmanconstruction. (Below) Walls of snow border the streetsin Litchfield after a snowstorm dumped inches of thewhite stuff in March 1917.


Cover Story

HerecomesSantaClausAn interviewwith the jollyman in red

STAFF PHOTOS

It’s that time of year again when Santa will be checking his listto find out if we’ve been naughty or nice in 2010. Read on tolearn what else Santa gets up to at the North Pole.

By Katie Winter

He is one of the most recogniza-ble and magical icons ofChristmas. With his red suit,

white beard and jovial laugh, SantaClaus has achieved worldwidecelebrity status. Albeit, shrouded inmystery. People often wonder if heeven truly exists. Where is his hid-den workshop, and how does hemake it around the world in onenight?

The little that is known about himwas scoured from ancient texts andpassed down through folk legends.

He answers to multiple names,including Saint Nicholas, FatherChristmas and Kris Kringle. He issaid to deliver gifts to the homes ofthe good children during the lateevening and overnight hours ofChristmas Eve. A feat he accom-plishes with a fleet of nine flyingreindeer.

The rumor is that all of the giftsare built by magical elves insideSanta’s workshop at the North Pole.

These tidbits of information havenever been confirmed…until now. Ihad the incredible opportunity tointerview the jolly one himself whilehe was paying a visit to Darwin.

As we sat down for our chataround a large oak table with palewinter sunlight streaming in fromthe window behind us, I fired myfirst question at Santa.

Katie: Would you mind sharing abit of background info about your-self? How did you get to be Santa?What got you started?

Santa: I’m really just a represen-tative of good. I have some fondmemories. I think the first time I didit, was at least 40 years ago.(Another man) who played SantaClaus called me and said he haddouble booked himself and could Ihelp him out. I said yes. I had 602kids that year. I came into that audi-torium and it was just solid kids.

Katie: Have the children of theworld been good this year?

Santa: All the kids are good. I lovekids, especially those who are appre-ciative for a piece of candy. You can

really have some good conversationswith them.

Katie: What are the most popularrequests from kids?

Santa: They still ask for dolls, butnow its Nintendo Wii, cell phonesand iPods that they want. But thereis one girl I can remember (who wasdifferent). I asked her what shewould like for Christmas. I said “Ibet you’d like a doll.” She said “No, Ido have a doll. It’s kind of worn out,but I don’t want anything if you canjust get my sister something.” That’srewarding.

Katie: Sometimes kids can be abit frightened by Santa. How do youhandle that?

Santa: Little kids are a little bitafraid at times. So I’m not a boister-ous Santa with a loud ‘ho, ho, ho.’ Iplay it pretty quiet. I’ll come insometimes and kids will scamper,but usually by the time I’m ready toleave I can have them on my lap andtalking to them.

Katie: You are known as the bear-er of gifts, but has anyone ever givenyou something special?

Santa: There was a little girl whocame through the line and then anhour later here she was back in line.I said “I thought I saw you herebefore.” She said you did, but hergrandfather had given her two bellsand she thought I should have a bell.I always make sure to have that bellhanging on my belt.

Katie: How can a child reach youto ask for Christmas gift?

Santa: I get a lot of letters andnotes. The kids usually have a list ofwhat they want, but I don’t promisethem anything. I say I’ll have to takethat list back to look it over. I don’twant them to be disappointed. Ialways tell them to write. I tell themI might forget so what they need todo with their notes is tape them to awindow, facing outside. Then I see itwhen I go by.

Katie: Some people don’t believein you anymore. What do you say tothat?

Santa: I say “What makes a realSanta.” The kids say they don’tknow. I tell them a real Santa wouldbe warm. They feel my arm. It’swarm. Then I tell them Santa has a

Do you know...The Real Santa Claus?

Come Christmastime, children all around the world awaitthe arrival of Santa Claus.

Although many of his abilities are the result of folklore,there actually was a Santa Claus, or St. Nicholas.The realSt. Nicholas lived in Turkey. He was a bishop in the town ofMyra during the 4th century.

According to Dutch legend, Sinter Klaas, or St. Nicholas,brought gifts at Christmas, either through an open windowor down a chimney.This legend is the basis of the SantaClaus we know and love today.

St. Nicholas takes on many personas depending on thecountry in which his tale is being told. For most, he is aplump and jolly man with a penchant for cookies andmilk.


Cover Story

beard. My beard is real. They canpull my beard. Most of the time,after that they’re convinced foranother year.

Katie: One longstandingChristmas Eve tradition is leavingout milk and cookies for Santa. Whatis your favorite cookie?

Santa: I always tell kids not toleave chocolate chip. I don’t likethem. Sugar cookies or anything elseis fine.

Katie: How do you get around theworld so quickly? How do you visitall those homes on a single night?

Santa: I can’t carry a lot of stuffwith me, so to get to every home Ihave to have my elves deliver pres-ents to me. That way I don’t have togo back to the North Pole.

Katie: What is your workshoplike?

Santa: It’s a big, long building,heated by wood. Two elves keep thestove going. Mrs. Claus is in charge.And all year round it looks likeChristmas. There’s snow all the timeat the North Pole.

Katie: Where are the reindeer?Santa: The reindeer have their

own barn and they don’t do anythingall year except on Christmas Eve.The reindeer are very temperamen-tal. It took a while for Rudolph tobecome the leader of the group. Hehad to work his way up. It wasn’t aneasy task for him.

Katie: So, what keeps you goingafter all these years Santa, do youever feel like just retiring, and tak-ing it easy, let some elf take over foryou?

Santa: Every year is an experi-ence. My wife asked me how long areyou going to keep doing this. I saiduntil I quit having fun because thekids will be the first to sense that.

Katie: You are observed to be busyduring the Yuletide season. What do

you do during the rest of the year?Santa: I keep very busy. I help my

neighbor on his farm. I have a biggarden. I love to garden.

Katie: Finally Santa what is thesecret to unlocking the holiday spir-it?

Santa: Everybody having a good

time. Age has no bearing as long asyou’re having fun. The adults arelike kids. They’re all in on the party.

Katie: Thank you Santa. MerryChristmas.

Santa: My pleasure and MerryChristmas to all, and to all, a goodnight!

Do you know...The Department Store Santa?

Each year, shoppers are greeted by the sights of the holi-day season at area stores. However, it’s an appearance bythe man in red that really signifies the arrival of Christmas.Department stores count on Santa Claus to attract cus-tomers to pose for pictures and shop the day away.

History suggests the department store Santa made hisdebut in 1841, when J.W. Parkinson, a Philadelphia mer-chant, hired a man to dress up in a “Kris Kringle” outfit andclimb the chimney of his store.

It wasn’t untilforty years laterthat a Bostonmerchant repeat-ed the idea, hiringa Scottish immi-grant namedEdgar, who hap-pened to be talland a little roundaround the middleand who boasteda white beard, awarm voice and ahearty laugh.


Cover Story

The folklore surrounding Santa Claus datesback to the 4th century.


HUTCH HEARING AID320-587-7557

903 Hwy. 15 S., Hutchinson(Frontage Road next toThe Coffee Company)

LITCHFIELD HEARING AID320-593-0333

711 E. Depot St. (Hwy. 12),Litchfield

1-800-628-9165 • hutchhearing.com

Excellence

Everyday Services:� Hearing evaluations —

no charge, no pressure� Hearing aid service — all brands� New hearing aids in all price ranges� Satisfaction or your money back —

more than 90% success rate

Tom Eggimann Owner/Hearing

Instrument Specialist

Karl Benson Hearing Instrument

Specialist

Sharon Rolander Office Manager

in hearing care

Every Day!

N02

159

ZEST

Cover Story

Santa must be agood listener withan even bettermemory to keeptrack of the millionsof gift requests hereceives from chil-dren all over theworld.


Comfort Foods

Fruit 'n Spice Sweet PotatoesFrom Princella Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:• 1 can (40 ounces) Princella or Sugary Sam Cut Sweet

Potatoes• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger• 1 cup raisins• 1 1/2 cups diced apples• 1 tablespoon lemon juice• 1/3 cup chopped and toasted pecans, optional

Instructions:1. In large pot combine sweet potatoes, cinnamon,

nutmeg, and ginger.2. Add raisins and mix well; heat to a simmer.3. Combine diced apples and lemon juice; add to sweet

potato mixture; simmer 5 minutes.4. Before serving, sprinkle chopped pecans over each

portion, if desired. Serves 10.

Glazed Ham With Pecan CrustFrom the National Pork Board

Ingredients:• 1 10-pound cooked ham, bone in• 2 cups apple cider• 1 cup light brown sugar• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans

Instructions:1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Insert meat thermometer into

center of ham without touching bone. Place ham in bakingdish and pour cider over. Roast in oven, basting with ciderevery 30 minutes for a total cooking time of 2 to 2 1/2hours (12 to 15 minutes per pound) or until thermometerregisters 140°F.

2. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine brown sugar, mustardand pecans. Remove ham from oven during the last 40minutes and firmly pat the sugar pecan mixture all overthe ham. Return to oven and continue roasting until crustis brown and ham is done.

3. Slice and serve with pan sauce. Some topping will fallinto the sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment tothe ham.

Makes 20 to 25 servings

Santa's Snickerdoodles with RaisinsFrom Sun-Maid Growers of California

Ingredients:• 1 cup butter or margarine, softened• 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar• 2 eggs• 2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour• 1-1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar• 1 teaspoon baking soda• 1/4 teaspoon salt• 1-1/2 cups Sun-Maid Natural Raisins• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions:1. Heat oven to 375°F. Grease cookie sheets.2. Combine butter and 1-1/2 cups sugar; beat until light

and fluffy. Add eggs; blend well.4. Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt

and add to butter mixture; mix well. Stir in raisins.5. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll in sugar and

cinnamon mixture to coat.6. Place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets and

bake in upper third of oven 10 to 12 minutes. Makes 42 cookies.

Holiday cheer at the table


The Senior Community of Hutchinson

The Oaks & The Pines

• 1 or 2 BR Apartments• Social Activities• Medication Administration• Meal Plan• 24-hr Staffing• All Utilities• Housekeeping and

Laundry Services

For information or to arrange a tour, call Berit Spors at 320-234-0865

Independence. Community. Security.

N021

39 Z

Now Featuring Memory Care

Comfort FoodsExcellent Eggnog

Ingredients:• 8 large eggs• 2 1/4 cups superfine sugar• 8 ounces brandy• 8 ounces rum• 4 ounces bourbon• 1 quart milk• Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:1. Separate the eggs from the egg whites, setting the

whites aside for a moment.2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the yolks with a hand

mixer until completely combined. Add the sugar and beatuntil it reaches a creamy consistency.

3. Add the brandy, rum and bourbon, and then the milk,beating well.

4. In a medium-size mixing bowl, beat the egg whiteswith a hand mixer until soft peaks form (be sure beforebeating the whites that you have cleaned and thoroughlydried the beaters).

5. Fold the egg whites into the yolk, sugar and alcoholmixture. Refrigerate the mix until well chilled (at leastthree hours). You may also refrigerate it overnight ifdesired.

6. Stir to recombine as needed. Serve the eggnog inmugs, topping each serving with some nutmeg.

No holiday party is complete without deliciouseggnog.


Medicare Answers

Dear Marci,

I’ve been hearing a lot aboutMedicare fraud in the news. Whatcan I do to prevent fraud?

— Arianna

Dear Arianna,Medicare fraud is when providers

mislead Medicare into paying forservices it shouldn’t pay for or payingmore than it should pay.

There are many ways you can pre-vent fraud:

• Protect your Medicare numberthe same way you would protect yourcredit card number. Be careful aboutwho you give your Medicare numberto. Be especially wary of someone whopromises to give you a free service inexchange for your Medicare number.

• Know what Medicare covers andwhat Medicare does not cover. Thatway, you can question a provider whosays you can get coverage for some-thing Medicare doesn’t cover.

• Only accept services you need.Some providers may try to talk youinto getting tests or services you don’tneed. Don’t let them.

• If it sounds too good to be true, itprobably is. If a provider saysMedicare will pay for something thatsounds too good to be true, such as adance class, follow your instinct.Medicare probably won’t pay for it.

The key to preventing fraud is to beaware. The more you know aboutwhat Medicare does and does notcover, the less likely you’ll be to fallinto a fraud trap.

If you lose your card or someonesteals it, check your MedicareSummary Notice. Make sure youreceived all the services on the MSNand someone else has not added addi-tional services to it. Also, be sure toonly give your Medicare number tohealth care providers.

If you spot fraud, you can report itto the Office of the InspectorGeneral’s fraud hotline at 800-447-8477.

— Marci

Dear Marci,

I got my Medicare SummaryNotice and there were chargesfor services I didn’t get. I calledmy doctor to ask about thecharges. He said it was for servic-es I received last year but wasnever charged for. I think he maybe fraudulently billing Medicare.What can I do?

— Mike

Dear Mike,It sounds like your doctor might be

fraudulently billing Medicare.Medicare fraud is when doctors orother providers mislead Medicare intopaying when it shouldn’t be paying orpaying more than it should. The fol-lowing are considered Medicarefraud:

• Billing Medicare for services youdidn’t receive;

• Billing Medicare for services thatare different than the ones youreceived (usually more expensive);

• Continuing to bill Medicare forrented durable medical equipmentafter you have returned it;

• Offering or performing servicesthat aren’t necessary in order tocharge Medicare for more services

• Telling you Medicare will pay forsomething when it won’t;

• Using another person’s Medicarenumber or card.

You should always carefully reviewyour Medicare Summary Notice tomake sure all the charges are forservices you actually received. Ifyou’re in Original Medicare, you usu-ally get an MSN four times a year.The MSN shows claims processed inthe last three months. If you’re in aMedicare private health plan (some-times called a Medicare Advantageplan) you should get an Explanationof Benefits that shows claims yourplan processed each month.

You did the right thing by first call-ing your doctor. Whenever you thinkthere’s a mistake on a bill, you shouldalways call your doctor, hospital orother provider first in case it was anhonest mistake.

If your doctor’s answer isn’t satis-factory to you, you should call yourMedicare carrier at 800-MEDICARE(800-633-4227) or the InspectorGeneral’s fraud hotline at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477) to report possi-ble fraud. Your identity will remainanonymous. Medicare fraud is illegaland it’s important to always report it.

— Marci

A sign of Medicare fraud is being billed for services not received.

Be alert for signs of fraud


Medicare Answers

1455 Montreal St. SE (Next to Menards)

320-587-6308 • 800-955-6336Open Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

1st and 3rd Saturdays Labor Day through Memorial Day: 8:30 a.m.–12 Noon

Regional Eye CenterA WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CARE IN HUTCHINSON

Michael P.Merck, M.D.

Christopher R. Wallyn, D.O.

Amy J.Nyquist, O.D.

Steve Queenan ABO/NCLE

Allan D.Wortz, O.D. N02351 Z

WE OFFER THREE AREAS OF EXPERTISE IN ONE CONVENIENT,RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

� Regional Eye SpecialistsOPHTHALMOLOGY/OPTOMETRY

A new level of eye examination and patient education.

State-of-the art equipment for examination of the

retina, macula and optic nerve.

� Regional Eye OpticalQUALITY EYEWEAR/PERSONAL EYECARE

Twice the optical selection, including new frame styles,

Transitions® and polarized prescription sunglasses.

� Regional Eye Surgery CenterON-SITE SURGERY CENTER

On-site cataract, glaucoma and Wavescan® LASIK surgery, performed with the latest surgical equipment.

We offer the newest technologies in

• Lifestyle Premium Intraocular Lenses—implants that

correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism

and the need for bifocals

• New Surgical Treatment of Glaucoma

• All-Laser Lasik

• New Treatments for Macular Degeneration

• Eyelid Surgery

Trusted CareKeeps YouSafe at Home

Southern MinnesotaHome Care1020 Hwy. 7 W., Suite D, Hutchinson

320-587-0118Insured and Bonded

Trusted CareKeeps YouSafe at HomeWe’ll help you liveindependently withoutchanging your lifestyle.

What can you expect fromour caregivers?� A Compassionate Heart� Trustworthiness and Reliability� Experience and Training� Insured and Bonded� Guaranteed Compatibility

Companionship and home help — fromday-to-day activities to occasional assistance. Call today for afree consultation to discuss our wide variety of services.

N02158 Z

What isMedicare fraud?

Most Medicare payment errors are simple mistakes andare not the result of physicians, providers, or supplierstrying to take advantage of the Medicare system. If youhave a question or concern regarding a Medicare claim,you should discuss it with your physician, provider, or sup-plier that provided the service.

Medicare fraud is when doctors or other providersdeceive Medicare into paying when it should not or payingmore than it should. This is against the law and should bereported.

Some types of fraud include:• Billing Medicare for services you never received• Billing Medicare for services that are different than

the ones you received (usually more expensive)• Continuing to bill Medicare for rented medical

equipment after you have returned it• Offering or performing services that you do not need

in order to charge Medicare for more services• Telling you that Medicare will pay for something when

it won’t• Using another person’s Medicare number or card.


Wellness

Dear Mayo Clinic:What are the current thoughts on

coffee as to how it affects one’s health,good or bad?

Answer:Over the past several years,

research has busted some healthmyths about coffee. It doesn’t con-tribute to heart attacks, cancer orreduced bone density — all of whichhave been suspected in the past.

We’ve learned that coffee, in moder-ation — perhaps one to two cupsdaily — isn’t bad for you. And in somecases, coffee seems to offer healthbenefits, perhaps the most notewor-thy being a reduction in the risk oftype 2 diabetes.

Many studies have shown that cof-fee decreases the risk of type 2 dia-betes. One study, published in theAnnals of Internal Medicine in 2004,showed this significant protectiveeffect increased with coffee consump-tion up to six cups a day. The effectwas similar for caffeinated and decaf-feinated coffee.

This study and others on the healtheffects of coffee highlight that there’smore to coffee than caffeine. Wherehealth benefits or risks have beendocumented, researchers don’t neces-sarily know what components in cof-fee are linked to the health effects. A“cup of joe” has up to 2,000 differentcomponents, including micronutrientssuch as magnesium, potassium,niacin and vitamin E. Among coffeedrinkers, coffee may be the largestfood source of antioxidants — sub-stances that protect cells from thedamage caused by unstable moleculescalled free radicals.

Studies have documented coffee’sother health benefits in various areas:

• Parkinson’s disease: A number ofstudies have shown that coffeedrinkers benefit from a protectiveeffect against Parkinson’s disease.

• Asthma: Coffee may reduce asth-

ma symptoms.• Gallstones: Coffee may reduce

gallstone formation.• Cognition: Coffee increases alert-

ness. That’s why it’s the morningwake-up call for many people. Studiesalso have shown that coffee canimprove cognitive performance.Results from at least four studies sug-gest that coffee drinkers have adecreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Mental health: Three studieshave shown a decreased risk of sui-cide with moderate coffee consump-tion. The reason for this isn’t clear.

• Liver disease: Coffee seems tooffer a protective effect against liverdisease including cancer, especiallyamong those who drink alcohol.

Before you rush to brew a pot ofcoffee, know that there are some sideeffects and potential health concernsfrom drinking coffee. Side effects caninclude jitteriness, insomnia andbenign heart palpitations. The extentof the side effects varies by individualand the ability to metabolize caffeine.Some people forgo coffee in the after-noon because it causes insomnia.Others can have a coffee nightcapand sleep soundly.

Side effects also can include loosestools and heartburn or reflux in peo-ple who are predisposed to those con-ditions. Coffee may worsen urinarysymptoms for men with prostateproblems.

Occasional coffee drinkers may seean increase in their blood pressureafter a cup of coffee. With regular con-sumption, tolerance develops and theblood pressure falls to previous levels.If you are going to drink coffee, it'sprobably best to enjoy it daily to avoidblood pressure spikes.

Here’s another reason for consisten-cy. If you skip a day, you’re likely toexperience a withdrawal headache,since caffeine is slightly addictive.

Another health concern is that cof-

fee in more than moderate amountsmay affect a woman’s fertility andpossibly contribute to miscarriage.Other negatives are that coffeedecreases iron and calcium absorp-tion. It also increases urinary calciumloss, but this can be offset by increas-ing calcium consumption.

If you are not a coffee drinker, Iwouldn’t suggest starting for the sakeof better health. On the other hand, ifyou enjoy a daily cup or two of coffeeand aren’t bothered by side effects,there’s no need to worry about serioushealth risks from coffee. And you maybe sipping in some health benefits,too.

— Donald Hensrud, M.D.,Preventive and Internal Medicine,

Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

Coffee drinking is goodfor the body and mind

Studies show that a cup or two ofcoffee each day can protect yourhealth from many different ail-ments.


N021

97 Z

Scott NokesReg. Paralegal

Lenore FlinnAttorney at Law

B.S. Nursing

Melissa GoldsteinParalegal

FreeConsultation.

• Estates • Wills • Personal Injury • Probate • Trusts

• Elder Law • Accidents • Wrongful Death

• Criminal Law

Let our medical

expertise,competent

case resolution,

and our concern for

clients

work for

you.

Old Hutchinson Hotel, 16 Washington Ave W.,

Suite 100, Hutchinson � 320-587-4177

We accept

EVERGREEN APARTMENTSNow Taking Applications

Senior Community(62+/Handicap or Disabled)

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

5Rental Assistance available 5 Social Activities5Community lounge/kitchen 5Caring Staff 5Spacious 1 Bedroom Apts.5Medical emergency call buttons 5Walking distance to shopping and restaurants

Call for your personal tour today

320-587-9432

ExceptionalSENIORLIVING

N021

43 Z

EST

Wellness

It’s cold and flu season again and here’s a refreshercourse on what you can do to keep healthy.

Most people know colds are less severe than influenza,but they’re often unsure about specific symptoms. Forexample, the flu is often accompanied by a high fever(between 101 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit), and can causeextreme exhaustion that can last from two to three weeks.A cold usually lasts only a few days.

If you’d like to avoid using up those sick days, here aresome tips to help you avoid colds and flu.

Become a germ-a-phobe A little fastidiousness in areas of public hygiene can go

a long way in avoiding illness this season. Put distance between you and anybody displaying

symptoms like coughing or sneezing. Wash your handsthoroughly and often, using an alcohol-based sanitizinggel or wipe if water and soap aren’t available.

To rid your hands of bacteria and viruses, rub yourhands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least20 seconds be sure that you reach every surface of youhands and finger nails. That is the amount of time ittakes to recite the alphabet – or to sing the “Happy

Birthday” song twice. Frequently disinfect high hand-traffic items, such as

doorknobs and keyboards. Be sure to get sufficient rest, exercise and eat right,

including plenty of vegetables and fresh fruit. Foods richin vitamins A, C and E, help maintain a healthy immunesystem.

Most importantly, get your annual flu shot. This yearfor the first time, the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention is recommending everyone ages six monthsand older get the flu shot. However, remember it takes afew weeks after your shot to begin reaping flu-fightingbenefits.

When you must, admit defeat If you do contract a cold or flu, the best thing to do is

stay home and avoid spreading it to others. Rest and plen-ty of fluids will help your recovery.

Also take any medications prescribed by your doctor,such as antivirals. Different from antibiotics, antiviraldrugs can shorten the time you are sick and prevent seri-ous flu complications. For more tips, visit cdc.gov.

–StatePoint

Tips to avoid cold and flu


The Christmas countdown hasbegun, and the days are once againflying off the calendar like they doevery year. With the number of shop-ping days dwindling, those who havenot yet started shopping may feelpressed for time and worried they willnot be able to find gifts for everyoneon their lists. But good gifts can befound in the 11th hour. Here are somepotential gift ideas to keep an eye outfor this year.

Adults• Visit a liquor store for a bottle of

wine in the price range desired. Wrapit in a wine bag or leave it as is witha nice bow.

• Pick up passes to a local attrac-tion, such as an amusement park or amuseum. Put together tickets for aplay paired with a soundtrack of theproduction.

• Food is often appreciated. A boxof fine chocolates or one of those edi-ble fruit arrangements will be a taste-ful, and tasty, gift.

• Fill a large bowl with a scooper,sprinkles, cherries, and other top-pings for making ice cream sundaes.

• Pick a gift that embraces the holi-day spirit. Holiday music, ornamentsor table decorations can be used thisyear or next.

• Birthstone jewelry, which allowsmom or grandma to showcase all thekids’ birthstones.

• A digital photo key chain. Somedisplay as many as 100 digital pic-tures.

Children• Moon Dough: A less sticky version

of Moon Sand that’s easier to clean-up.

• Tickle Me Elmo: That loveableElmo is back in an “extreme” version.He laughs, tells jokes and rolls to theground in fits of laughter.

• “Twilight” Action Figures: Basedon the popular “Twilight” saga, theseaction figures are bound to be thenext collectibles for kids.

• Furby: Furby is back in an incar-

nation that reacts with true emotionsthanks to new technology.

• Dance Star Mickey: This MickeyMouse doll dances, talks and moves.

• Extreme Micro RC Helicopter:This infrared helicopter is the small-est on the market and can dart andfly around inside or outdoors.

• Rock Band: The Beatles: Thosewho love previous incarnations ofRock Band and playing along tofavorite songs will enjoy The Beatlesversion.

• An art set for older children, fullof paints and markers. If a completeset can’t be found, make an art pack-age with a bunch of supplies packedinto a gift bag.

• An educational gift that is stillfun, such as alphabet flash cards orpuzzles.

• A subscription to a children’smagazine would also work, seeing aschildren love getting mail.

• A DVD of their favorite televisioncharacters. The DVDs should featurean age-appropriateness rating tomake choosing one even easier.

Teenagers• Teenagers can be finicky, so a

monetary gift will be one-size-fits-all.• Teenage girls may appreciate a

gift basket of deliciously scentedlotions.

• Passes for movies can make datenight less expensive.

• Consider a gift card or e-giftcoupon for digital music downloads.

• Give a subscription to a teenmagazine so that everyone can keepabreast of their favorite celebrities.

Green gifts• Water saving showerhead: Put

together a gift basket of spa items,including body oils, sea salt scrubs,authentic loofa sponge, and a shower-head that conserves water.

• Bamboo cutting board: Treat theconsummate host or hostess to a bam-boo cutting board that can easily dou-ble as a cheese and crackers platter.

• Reusable travel mug: For the cof-fee fanatic, a personalized insulatedtravel mug can keep coffee warm.

These gifts aim to pleaseHoliday Central

Christmas is right around the corner, so now is the time to find that per-fect gift for friends and family.


BEFORE

AFTER

N024

33 Z

301 Glen St. SW, Hutchinson320-234-7588 • www.poprl.org

PCelebrating 15 Years

And Still Rocking!

1995 – 2010

N02061 Z

Visit us on the web or call today for your personal tour.

The Independence you want...

The Services you need...

The Activities you enjoy!

Money

Statistically speaking, Americansare extremely generous. One of thereasons that charitable giving hasremained strong is the variety ofoptions that exist for giving and thefact that many donations can betaken as tax deductions. Here aresome of the most common convenientways to give.

• Write a check. Many organiza-tions hold annual fundraising cam-paigns through the mail or the media.Writing them a check is still conven-ient for many people. It’s important tomake sure, however, that the organi-zation you’re supporting is legitimate.Never send money to an unfamiliarorganization or one that seems sus-pect.

• The gift of goods. Many peopledonate their used or unwanted itemsto charities, thrift shops, schools orshelters. These donations are typical-ly tax-deductible, so ask for a receipt.

• Shop for a cause. Today, manypurchases can support charitablecauses, from name-brand productslinked to charitable organizations.Some major retailers make donations

to fight AIDS in Africa or give away apair of shoes to a child in need forevery pair sold.

• Make a microloan. A number oforganizations have been establishedin recent years that specialize inmicrolending – the making of smallloans to individuals or small groupsin impoverished areas to encourageentrepreneurship.

• One-stop giving. Network forGood is an exciting and convenientresource for making charitable dona-tions online. Its website (www.net-workforgood.org) allows you toresearch and give to any of 1.5 mil-lion charities.

• Wills. Many people designategifts to charity in their wills. Thesebequests can be in the form of a spe-cific amount of money, a portion of anestate, a particular asset, a trust orthe naming of an organization as abeneficiary.

Tips on charitable giving

Donating money and goods helpsmany causes.

Travel

Winter traveling in Minnesota can be a great challengefor motorists. Conditions can change within a matter ofmiles on the same road, requiring travelers to adapt theirdriving to meet the road conditions. Weather-related acci-dents are some of the most prevalent. More than 500fatalities were attributed to snowy, icy roads in the 2008-2009 winter season in the U.S. These can be largely pre-vented or reduced in severity if the proper driving tech-niques and survival methods are followed. The MinnesotaDepartment of Transportation and AAA offer these tips.

Be Prepared • Pack your vehicle with winter survival kit that

includes a cell phone, booster cables, road flares, a shovel,sleeping bag or blankets, mittens, stocking cap and boots,windshield scraper and tow rope. Also have flashlights,hand/foot warmer packets, first aid supplies, medicationsand high energy candy or snacks, brightly colored cloth totie on vehicle’s antenna for help if stranded and a smallmetal container to melt snow for drinking water.

• Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance driveor before driving in isolated areas. Delay trips when espe-cially bad weather is expected. If you must leave, let oth-ers know your route, destination and time of arrival.

• Stay home. If you really don't have to go out, don’t.Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone elsecan. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere youhave to be, watch the snow from indoors.

• Check current road conditions. MnDOT has a 24-hourphone line for current statewide road condition informa-tion.

Stay put• If you become stranded during a snowstorm, stay in

your vehicle. Allow fresh air in your vehicle by leaving adownwind window slightly open to prevent carbon monox-ide poisoning, and make sure the exhaust pipe isn’tclogged with snow, ice or mud.

Also keep warm by allowing your blood to circulatefreely. Loosen tight clothing and change positions fre-quently. Move your arms and legs. Massage fingers andtoes.

Take your time• When driving in the snow, accelerate and decelerate

slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the bestmethod for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Don’ttry to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow downfor a stoplight. Remember, it takes longer to slow down onicy roads. It is also a good practice to increase your follow-

ing distance to eight to 10 seconds. • Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference

in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from afull stop versus how much it takes to get moving whilestill rolling.

• Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-cov-ered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get alittle inertia going before you reach the hill and let thatinertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of thehill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.

• Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse thantrying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get someinertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.

• If skidding is experienced, gently steer in the directionof the skid without applying the brakes. When traction isresumed, slow down and correct the car.

Maintain your vehicleIt is important to make some modifications to a vehicle

if driving on ice or snow. • At the least, proper tire inflation is important to main-

tain traction. Tires should also be checked for tread, asbald tires do little to grip the road.

• Individuals who want even more protection shouldconsider switching to snow tires for the winter. These tiresare made from a softer rubber so they can better grip theroad. They may also feature a different tire tread for evenmore traction.

• Snow chains can be used to offer greater grip.However, speeds will have to be greatly reduced whenchains are in place.

Tips to stay safe duringthe winter driving season

Drive carefully and take your time on winter roads.


Elbow

Knee

Shoulder

Tell us where it hurts.The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic ofHutchinson is here for you, no matter

what’s your game. From minor injuries to total joint replacement, this

state-of-the-art facility is yourfirst step to getting your body back.

Call us today. Stop hurting.

NeckandBack

Hip

320.484.4400 HutchinsonHealthCare.com

HandandWrist

02356

Humor Corner

N02070 Z

Hearing less of life?We can help.

HutchinsonCenter for

Hearing

100 Washington Ave. E.,Hutchinson

320-234-6825

LitchfieldCenter for

Hearing

32 E. 2nd St.,Litchfield

320-593-0885



Puzzles

KING CROSSWORDACROSS1 Army rank6 Huge9 Matterhorn, for one12 Eat away13 Tramcar contents14 Knightly address15 Trapshooting16 “Alas!”18 Motivated20 Urban fleet21 Tackle moguls23 Listening device24 Wheels of fortune?25 Scull lineup27 Hosiery fabric29 Large constrictor31 Zeroes35 Precise37 Campbell's product38 Analyze41 “- Wiedersehen”

43 Greek H44 Undo a dele45 Followed47 Slight footing49 Staffordshire ceramicware52 Shade provider53 Latin 101 word54 Norton's workplace55 In medias -56 Supporting57 Meddler

DOWN 1 Month (Sp.)2 Deluge refuge3 2001 David Spade movie4 Baltic Sea feeder5 Fix a stubborn knot6 Section of NYC, with "The"7 Unyielding8 “Golly!”9 Black tea of India10 People will bend over

backward to do it

11 Fourth estate17 Cupcake enhancements19 Woman of letters?21 Bribe22 Bandleader Kyser24 Singer Rawls26 Scabbard28 Yoga position30 Anti-acne brand32 Square-dance party33 Historic boy king34 Resort36 Frankness38 Autumn bloom39 Filched40 Appears to be42 Persnickety45 Ticklish Muppet46 Duel tool48 Lummox50 P.I.51 Geologic period

All answers on page 29


Monuments and More!

Darwin Monument320-693-5902

East Highway 12, Darwin, MNdarwinmonument.com

0207

5

Puzzles All answers on page 29


Calendar

DECEMBER

Dec. 2: UnforgettableChristmas, Hector.Activities include a visitfrom Santa and his friendsand horse drawn rides.

Dec. 4: Forest CityPioneer Christmas, activi-ties include horse-drawnsleigh rides, a visit withSanta, Christmas carolingand old-fashioned orna-ment making.

Dec. 4: HutchinsonDowntown ChristmasCelebration, LibrarySquare in downtownHutchinson. The dayincludes horse drawn ridesand Santa.

Dec. 4: MinnesotaBoyChoir Holiday Concert,7 p.m., Hutchinson HighSchool Auditorium. Enjoyan evening of beautiful hol-iday, sacred and secularmusic.

Dec. 5: Crow RiverSingers Winter Concert2010, 2-3 p.m. The CrowRiver Singers communitychoir will perform theirWinter Holiday Concertsunder the direction of BrianBrosz.

Dec. 6-11: Holly DaysCelebration, Glencoe. Thecelebration starts with theannual medallion hunt.Activities includeChristmas at the Libraryand a Christmas Jubileeparty with Santa & hisreindeer. The Holly DaysParade, which is one of thelargest lighted Christmasparades in the region, willbe Dec. 11.

Celebrate the holiday season


Puzzle Answers

Name ____________________________________________

Address __________________________________________

City ____________________State ______Zip____________

Mail this form and your $18 or $10 check to

ZESTP.O. Box 921Litchfield, MN 55355

Themail’shere!”

“

The happiest day of the month is when delivery of the fresh, new issue of ZESTarrives in mailboxes and on newsstands.Home delivery subscriptions are availablefor $18 per year.Subscribers to the Independent Review orLeader can receive ZEST for only $10 per year.

N02255

Subscribe to ZEST

ZEST36 Washington Ave. W.Hutchinson, MN 55350

ORTO


By Kay Johnson

It’s not every Sunday that a volunteer gets recognizedduring a church worship service, but that’s what hap-pened to Norb Mohs.

Mohs was honored with the State American LegionVolunteer of the Year Award during Mass at St. AnastasiaCatholic Church in Hutchinson.

“It (volunteering) makes me feel good,” he said. “I canunderstand why young people don’t volunteer. They’rebusy raising a family, but for older people, it gives themsomething to do.”

It seems fitting that the award presentation took placeat Mohs’ church since it’s one of the many places he volun-teers.

Mohs also can be found lending a helping hand atHutchinson American Legion Post 96, the Coffee Shop atHutchinson Area Health Care, Common Cup Ministry,Fare for All and Kids Against Hunger.

Mohs likes to bake and garden. Among his specialties —

rosettes — a type of Scandinavian deep-fried holiday cook-ie. Last year, he made 500 dozen, many of which he donat-ed to Legion spaghetti dinners and potlucks.

“I have a big garden,” he said. “A lot of it I donate to thefood shelf.”

Another passion of Mohs is fishing. He can be found atthe West Central Industries Thrift Store in Hutchinsonlooking for fishing poles, softballs, baseballs and gloves.He passes them along to kids who need them.

Mohs didn’t get much of a chance to volunteer whileworking for 27 1/2 years at Kraft Food Co. inAlbany,Minn. Remarkably, he never missed a single day ofwork. It wasn’t until he retired at 55 that he finally hadthe time.

Volunteering also has helped Mohs and his wife, Noel,meet people in Hutchinson. The couple moved to town in2003 to be closer to two of their three children — andgrandchildren. If you’re interested in volunteering, Mohsrecommends starting at your church.

“It’s the easiest place,” he said.

Mohs serves with gladness

STAFF PHOTOS BY KAY JOHNSON

Norb Mohs recently was honored with the StateAmerican Legion Volunteer of the Year Award. Heoften volunteers at the Hutchinson American LegionPost 96, Common Cup Ministry and Fare for All.

Norb Mohs helped prepare a salad while volunteer-ing at the coffee shop at Hutchinson Area HealthCare.

Last Word


The Hutchinson Leader is pleased to bring you another wonderful community event just in time for the holiday season

GREAT GIFT IDEA!

Mark Johnson, Artistic DirectorTodd Price, Accompanist

Enjoy an evening of beautiful holiday, sacred and secular music with the Minnesota Boychoir —

featuring the Allegro and Cantabile Choirs.

When: Sat., December 4Where: Hutchinson H.S. AuditoriumTime: Show begins at 7 p.m.

Doors open to the public at 5:30 p.m.Seating is first come, first served

Tickets on Sale NOW!$12 including tax

Available at the Hutchinson Leader or bycalling 320-587-5000 with credit card

��

�

36 Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson, MN 55350320-587-500 • hutchinsonleader.com

The Minnesota Boychoir was founded in 1962 and has performed with the Minnesota Orchestra, The Minnesota Opera, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Baltimore Symphony, the Prague Philharmonic,

Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” and touring Broadway companies, as well as performing national and international tours.

N02475 ZEST

women and men

Approximately half of these deaths occursuddenly, without prior symptoms. However,if the risk factors leading to a heart attack are identified early enough, 85% of sudden heart attacks may be prevented.

Are you at risk?� Male over 45 or female over 55� Family history of heart disease� History of tobacco use� High blood pressure� High cholesterol� Inactive lifestyle� Overweight� DiabetesIf you checked two or more boxes, youmay want to speak with your physicianabout cardiac calcium scoring.

What’s cardiac calcium scoring?A computerized tomography (CT) scan —fast, easy and painless—presents a picture of calcified plaque. Your cardiac calcium “score,” along with other indicators, gives you an idea of your future risk for heart disease, while there’s still time to do something about it. Learn more atHutchinsonHealthCare.com/cardiac.html

320.234.4808HutchinsonHealthCare.com

02449

Heart disease kills more

than all types ofcancercombined.

zest dec 2010

Documents

hour nursingcoverage

holiday cheer

alert emergency pendant

toll free

provident home healthcare

flu22 holiday central

private pay andsome

home forcomplex