GET CREATIVE! Raw Fusion Art Meets Raw Materials

McKnight Foundation Painter Winners Malia Wiley Saga Design Group PM lus!aking Strides The Mason Jar Against Breast Cancer FREE! Rivervalleywoman.com JULY 2016 • Volume 4 • Issue 2 Visit for a colorful day of family fun! Discover the magic of color with 25 hands-on attractions!

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048074 14 34 20 36 contents • Publisher { 2016 } New Century Press { july Chief Operating Officer 6 Jim Hensley

General Manager Lisa Miller

Please direct all editorial inquiries Lather, Rinse, Repeat Editor’s Column ...... 4 and suggestions to: Managing Editor Raw Fusion: Art Meets Raw Materials ...... 6 Eileen Madsen [email protected] Malia Wiley: Two Loves Become One Passion ...... 14

Sales Manager Saga: Opening the Door to a New Saga ...... 20 Natasha Weis 507-227-2545 Calendar of Events ...... 22 [email protected]

Sales Team Making Strides Against Breast Cancer ...... 28 Dustin Doust Ruth Klossner Good Taste: Lyons Creek Gardens ...... 34 Tami Leuthold Annette Perry The Mason Jar: For the Love of Minnesota, Naturally ...... 36

Designer Strut Your Stuff Fashion Pages ...... 40 Amy Leuthold What’SUP? ...... 43 Cover Photographer Daniel Dinsmore Photography Spaces ...... 44 Inside Photography Rhonda Milbrett Photography Breast Reconstruction Options ...... 49

River Valley Woman Magazine Connections Business Cards ...... 50 New Ulm & Mankato, MN 507.354.6158 Madelia STRONG ...... 52

For advertising and editorial contact Help Your Skin Survive Summer ...... 54 information and a list of newsstand locations visit What Next? Get Creative ...... 55 rivervalleywoman.com McKnight Foundation Winners ...... 56 River Valley Woman is published monthly and distributed free in the Minnesota River Valley area. The content used in this magazine is Beware of the Summer Clutter Creep ...... 57 copyright 2016 River Valley Woman and may not be reprinted in part or in whole without Treasures ...... 58 written consent by the publisher. All articles and editorial material represent the opinions GO. Suze Orman ...... 60 of the respective authors.

The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject, or Doggie Motion Sickness ...... 62 position any advertising. In the event of any error, River Valley Woman will rerun the incorrect part of the ad or cancel charges BE. on the incorrect portion. DO. CONNECT.RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 3 Lather, Rinse, Eileen Madsen Editor Repeat

It’s the first day In this digital age it’s fun to find an artist who uses paint and a brush. Malia Wiley is one of kindergarten and I feel like I’m gonna throw such fine artist, who combines her love of animals with her creative side. Her paintings up due to the fact that I had to leave my mom, grace the walls, halls and galleries of art lovers all around the area. Captain Kangaroo, and Baby Buttercup doll Creativity and business go together like love and marriage. Or at least soup and sandwich. behind to enter the real world of nap rugs, I’m talking advertising agencies...at least that is what they used to call them. Think Darrin group activities (ugh!), story hour (well, that’s Stephens from the old TV show Bewitched. He came up with great ideas to promote ok), and the unidentifiable smell of lunchroom, businesses—slogans, advertisements, graphic design, marketing. Darrin got to do all the industrial cleaners and kid bodies that will fun stuff I thought. Before Endora turned him into a circus monkey, that is. This is where permeate my sinuses until well after high people such as Kari Halbur and Sierra Kamatchus come in at Saga Design. They use their school graduation. When suddenly, I saw it. right brains to help promote the companies run by left-brained entrepreneurs. Halbur is An abacus. Of course I didn’t know what it not a new face in this industry, having run Red Door Creative for a number of years. was called then, nor that its main purpose was counting and addition. All I saw were the Speaking of relationships, let me get back to that abacus for a minute. Seems there is colored wooden7.75" balls on metal xpoles 2.3" that a strong correlation with art and math. Much the same as music and math. What other slid left and right. The combinations were things that I like are going to end up being math? Cats and math? Wine and math? But endless and soothing.custom Every day I headed publications for it does make sense. specialists There is balance, form, perspective, symmetry, geometry, lighting, that abacus and sat in my own little world shadow angles, and measuring even. Sheesh. Considering I got an A in art in school, I think of red, green, yellow507-354-6158 and blue. Today • I Nehavew Ulmmy • [email protected] should reconsider that C- in algebra. Hrrumph. one on the shelf in my office. It reminds There are many ways to be creative that don’t involve paint, clay or computer. Unique me of my creative roots. approaches to dealing with adversity and ways to support each other“Big can Ci tbey T asal einspiringnt RVW thinks outside the box in this Creative as a Monet painting. This issue kicks off the first of a 4-part seriesS mona lthel To wMakingn Attit uStridesde” Issue featuring Raw Fusion award winners on Cancer Walk event in October. We chat with those women who have been chosen the our cover. Raw Fusion is a fund-raising event “Person of Hope” over the past four years. Madsen I nk where models sport outfits made from a box... Seems the river valley has more creative people than gwer canap counthic ond oures abacuses.ign The or furnace filters, or glass, carpeting, aluminum Mason Jar, a new business in North Mankato, offers scores of unique Minnesota handmade foil... you name it, they wore it. A fusion of & copy writing items, and over 30 artists received McKnight Foundation grant awards in this area. Mary fashion with raw materials. I was lucky enough Gulden Groebner’s sewing room is featured in our SPACES pages along with her one-of-a- to attend it this year and describing it as wild Creative marketing services and custom publication design for kind tapestries. is an understatement. If you have never been •business •organizations •special pr o jects to this event then mark your calendars for next These fabulous features, plus Madelia Strong, Lyons Creek Gardens, factoring in our May. And just in case, you may want to stock entertaining and informative columns, divided by eye-catching advertisements from river up on Reynolds Wrap. valley businesses, this issue all adds up to a work of art. “Big City Talent...Small Town Attitude”

graphic design & copy writing Madsen I nk

507-354-6158 • Ne w Ulm [email protected]

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4 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016

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046244 Founder Nicole Panko, Committee Co-Chair Brittany Mitchell, Founder Mary Kaus, Founder Jen Swenson, Founder Jamie Sorensen Raw Fusion... Art meets Raw Materials By Kelly DeVriendt Photos by Dan Dinsmore Photography

The Raw Fusion Fashion Show walked onto the Mankato scene six Stepping away from chicken kiev dinners and bake sales, Raw Fusion years ago, offering up a hip and unique twist to a sometimes stale puts raw materials onto a fashion runway. Area businesses are asked fundraiser market. to create wearable designs out of building materials for models to showcase on a New York inspired runway. Founders, Jamie Sorensen, Mary Kaus, Jen Swenson and Nicole Panko wanted to do something for the community that also would The Verizon center is transformed to match the theme of each year. help build awareness for their industry. “We needed something This year, Cirque Du Freak was chosen and featured a big top and empowering,” said Jamie Sorensen. fire-breather. The models entered the runway through the mouth of a giant clown head. After seeing a similar show hosted by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), all agreed that is was something they could “The fire-breather almost didn’t happen,” said Amy Kolb, the bring to Mankato. “We thought, we can do this and we can do it Executive Officer for MRBA in Mankato, “We didn’t get clearance for bigger,” said Panko. that until the Monday before.”

6 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Year one and two were building years with the founders campaigning Since then, the team works year-long to coordinate and organize. and solidifying sponsorships. “We were begging friends to help and It is hundreds of hours of work - all volunteer. “I am not sure people to get involved,” said Sorenson. realize what it takes to pull off the event,” said Kaus. Today, people come to them eager and inspired to be a part of the The volunteer numbers and hours have increased every year, show. Much of the growth and interest has been largely attributed to undoubtedly helping the growth and the energy of the show. The word of mouth. The high-energy, abstract fashion show has become consistency of the four founders acting as the base has ensured a an annual highlight for many in the Mankato community. nearly flawless execution. “I think people are drawn to the idea of a glamourous night on the The event’s purpose is twofold: to bring attention to the local town, a reason to dress up. It feels like you are in a much larger city,” building industry and to raise funds for a local non-profit. To be said Panko. “It definitely does not feel like a traditional fundraiser,” considered, non-profits submit an application and Raw Fusion board added Sorensen. members chose the recipient. Glamour and fashion are not terms usually associated with the This year 27 local companies submitted designs. Entries must utilize building industry. Yet, Raw Fusion is presented by the Minnesota raw building material in their designs. Models then showcase River Builders Association (MRBA). MRBA is a non-profit networking the creations by working the stage and competing for various organization which also lobbies on behalf of the building industry. recognitions. “We talked to the president [of MRBA], who kind of laughed, but Six of the twenty-seven creations walked off the runway with eventually told us to go for it,” said Kaus. an award.

Cherry Creek has been involved in Raw Presently working in Marketing at Cherry Fusion every year. This was the first year Creek, Rudolf has a background spent however that Julie Rudolf has done the around the fine arts. Previously a dancer design work. herself, and now with three daughters in dance, it was a no-brainer for Rudolf to “I wanted to do something outside of the bring in the Mankato Ballet Company. box,” said Rudolf. She took the Cirque Du Freak theme and gravitated towards “The dancers [Kelsey Chester and Riley a vintage circus image. After doing the Thomas Weber] are used to being research, she was inspired with the on stage. I knew they could pull off theatrical and over- the-top concepts of the concept and give a theatrical the old-time circus. performance,” said Rudolf. Deciding on the Tamer and Cat, Rudolf Obviously she was right, as the team had a general idea of how she wanted the danced off with the coveted Show costumes to come together. However, the Stopper award. design process started with one piece and This is even more impressive considering then was continually built from that. the weight of the costume. “The arms of “We made sure we used raw materials to the costume weighed 8-9 pounds,” said transform each piece to make it unique Chester, “and after wearing it for four and defined,” said Rudolf. to five hours, my arms actually went a little numb.” The Tamer’s shoulder pads were made of carpet to mold the piece. The rosebuds It becomes even more impressive when were carved out of duct tape, while the you hear that they did not finalize their tutu was dry vent that was ripped apart stage routine until the morning of from a furnish filter. Glass and mirror tiles the show. “Riley and I have both been adorned the outfit as well. performing all our lives. We had an idea of what we wanted to do, but were not The cat’s collar was window screen, sure how to fit it smoothly on the stage layered to create petals. The fur was and we didn’t even know about the carpeting that was painstakingly timing-what song would even be playing,” Award: Show Stopper ripped off its backing to be explained Chester. Costume: Tamer and Cat glued to the pants. The future may hold another opportunity “It was a labor of love,” Company: Cherry Creek/Mankato Ballet for Rudolf’s design to steal the show. When said Rudolf. Designer: Julie Rudolf asked if she’d do it again, she stated, “In

a heartbeat.” s Materials: Mirror and glass tile, carpeting, window screening, cabinetry Models: Kelsey Chester and Riley Thomas Weber

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 7 Last year, Kristin Malterer attended the Raw stage at Raw Fusion despite the large crowd Fusion show and thought, “Gosh that would in attendance and despite the challenges of be really fun.” So this year, she entered her simply wearing the outfit. husband’s two-year-old business, brought in “The headpiece was heavy, so I had to be her friend, Danielle Ceminsky, to help with the careful that it didn’t fall. The skirt was itchy and design and took home one of the six awards. the copper had some sharp edges; I got used to “I wanted something on the pretty side,” walking with my arms out,” said Vetter. said Malterer, “I also wanted to make sure the Malterer and Ceminsky worked hard to make materials I used were true to the business.” the outfit as wearable as possible for Vetter, Starting with copper, she built upon the design however, there is only so much you can do to from there. The head piece and corset were make copper easy to wear. copper and she then incorporated blue furnace “You think about in your head, but to actually filter with flexible ductwork. get it all to work and to fit a human body is This decision to focus on the materials as a way definitely a challenge,” said Malterer. to make the design more meaningful is what “We practiced a lot and by the time of the earned her the Raw Factor award. This award show, I was used to its quirks. Walking out onto goes to the design with the best use and most the stage was thrilling,” said Vetter. use of raw materials. Overall, Malterer welcomed the opportunity to The model they recruited was also a first use her creative side. Having studied graphic timer to hit the stage or even attend design in college, she feels designing is in Award: Raw Factor the show. Mercedes Vetter’s sister her blood. had previously modeled for Costume: Circus Show Girl Vetter Stone and coincidentally “It was worth all the work,” said Malterer, who

Company: Malterer Mechanical also won the Raw Factor award. estimated that she contributed around 120 hours of time to the design and event, all on Designers: Kristin Malterer & Danielle Ceminsky “I had wanted to do it since my a volunteer basis. Materials: Sheet copper, copper pipe and sister did it. I was so excited when they asked me,” said Vetter. “I am in shock and awe that this has all furnace filter. happened. That so many people come Model: Mercedes Vetter With a high-school history that together and put forth so much effort with included theater, Vetter claims all the proceeds going to a non-profit,” she was not nervous to hit the said Malterer.

Courtney Anderson was on double duty this year down the stage the fear subsided and as both designer and model. This year was also her she found it more fun. “The whole first year to enter and she did so without ever having event was so well organized. It really seen the show. helped me to not get nervous,” said Anderson. RIckway Carpet is a member of the Minnesota Builders Association and wanted to participate. With approximately seventy hours Anderson, eight months into her sales job at of time put into the event, Anderson Rickway, was asked to do it. confirms that finding the time to work on the costume was the most “I knew I could come up with something,’ said challenging aspect. However, she Anderson after looking at some pictures from last follows that up with, “I am already year’s show. “It seemed like it would be fun and we planning next year, just waiting to have a lot of raw materials.” With a sewing hobby hear the theme.” and previously won costume contests under her belt, Anderson began googling freak show side show and her team settled on the mermaid idea.

She began walking around work asking, “Can I have Award: Most Wearable this? Can I have this?” Thankfully, most often the answer was yes and Anderson, with the help of her Costume: Fiji Mermaid Circus Freak, ½ Fish ½ friend, Nicole Ronich, began building the costume Human piece by piece. Company: Rickway Carpet The top boasted mosaic tiles on the straps and Designers: Courtney Anderson, the fish scales were made of upholstery trim from Marilyn Christiansen and Nichole Ronich windows, while the trident utilized the carpet. Materials: Window treatment, foam With her modeling duties, Anderson felt a bit underlayment and carpet nervous at the rehearsal, but once she walked Model: Courtney Anderson 8 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 After having the honor of being the recipient of last only thing that remained intact, year’s fundraiser, Partners for Affordable Housing as it originally started, was a small wanted to be involved again. So, they decided to corset on top. enter a design. “Getting the dress and monster Deb Newman from the agency put the team to get along was a challenge,” together; Designer Mailia Wiley, Seamstress Wendi said Schoeb. Wiley made the prop Schoeb and Model Amanada Wetzel did not know piece by piece, earning them the each other prior to this collaboration. award for the best use of theme. Schoeb, having previously done costumes for Another challenge was getting special occasions, was thrilled to be asked. “I like the dress to stay on the model. making something out of nothing,” said Schoeb. What was their solution? Extra “Plus I loved the freak show theme. I really get into duct tape of course. Halloween and the idea of sideshows.” Wetzel likely did not anticipate The team began by timidly throwing out ideas and being duct taped when she soon the synergy began to blossom. “I knew our initially signed on, although original sketch would morph, but was surprised as she says, “I was falling all over to how much it actually did,” said Schoeb. myself wanting to do it.” With a background of cheerleading, She spent two hours alone on each of the sleeves dancing and theater, she clearly for the costume. “Deb was nervous about it did not suffer from stage fright. getting done, but I find deadlines enjoyed,” Award: Cirque du Freak ensured Schoeb. Is there a chance we will see this newly formed team back at it next Costume: Freak Show Marionette Beginning with a dress previously owned year? Both Schoeb and Wetzel by her daughter for a base, they built it up Company: Partners for Affordable Housing offered up, without hesitation, a with all the raw materials. In the end, the very firm, “Yes.” Designers: Malia Wiley and Wendi Schoeb Materials: Ty-Vek, window screen, aluminum foil tape Model: Amanda Wetzel

Liv Aveda is three for three in the People’s been modeling for the Aveda team since the start. Choice award category. They began With a background in cheerleading, Tessa has entering designs three years ago at the definitely been an asset in capturing the People’s urging of Daniel Dinsmore. “He kept Choice award. harassing us to do it. He said we were far “They put me through something different every too creative not to,” said designer Ashley year,” said Flies. Who in truth, doesn’t seem to Stanley. mind. “I just tell them to let me know what they Clearly, he was right. Not only has the Aveda need from me.” team swept the People’s Choice award since Stanley attributes the team’s success to the fact they started entering, they also brought that is has been the same team year after year. their creation to the Fusion and Fashion “We have gotten better every year,’ she said, Show put on by the International Interior adding, “It’s a lot of work, and it’s all done on Design Associate in the Twin Cities. There a volunteer basis. However, it’s such a sense too, they strolled off the catwalk with two

of pride.” s awards: People’s Choice and Best in Show. The winning outfit was built up from landscaping fabric. “Because of the talent on our team, we had the opportunity to Award: People’s Choice make an outfit that was completely raw,” Costume: Double Headed Queen of Freaks said Stanley. In fact, the only thing on the entire piece that was not raw was the Company: Liv Aveda zipper. Designers: Ashley Stanley, Bridget Oslund, The vertical blinds that were used to make Emily Schoper, Nicole Comstock and the dress took more than twelve hours to Pat McGowan cut and piece together and then another Materials: Vertical blinds, landscaping fabric, twelve plus hours of layering and sewing. PVC pipe. “This year was definitely the heaviest Model: Tessa Flies outfit,” said model Tessa Flies. Flies has RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 9 Wolff and Person, along with Melissa Bradley, worked as designers for this year’s entry. Person also did double- Award: Founders Favorite duty acting as one of the models. Costume: Wind-Up Girls The team started to meet three Company: Snell Motors to four evenings a week at the end of March to get it started Designers: Melissa Bradley, Anne Wolff and and then continued meeting a Maria Person few days a week leading up to Materials: Vehicle mirrors, CDs, air filters the event. Wolff played a larger role in the conception piece and Models: Maria Person and Kassie Malchow Person pitched in on brainstorming and production. Models Maria Person and Kassie Malchow had “Each year is bigger and better. There to be driven to the show standing in the back is a lot of pressure to come up with something of a truck. “Once those things were on, they amazing,” said Wolff. were never coming off,” said Person. Person admits that the outfit was uncomfortable, This year, the team actually had to get out the tight and heavy. power tools. The carousel skirts were actual building materials from remodels at the shop. The suffering paid off as Snell Motors, which The interior of the skirt was plywood for the has been participating in the event since top and bottom because it was light and 2012, received the first-ever awarded Founder could be level. Favorite prize. “You think you have the right materials until ‘It was so nice to be recognized, especially you get to the execution and they don’t hold by the founders who have seen it all,” up,” explained Wolff. Two full nights were said Person. spent constructing the carousel skirts. Award winners Snell staff, being big fans of the River Builders One could assure that at that point, the Association, initially approached the founders decision to make two skirts instead of one Show StoppeR asking to be involved. “It was such a great was regretted, however Wolff asserts that, opportunity to increase awareness of the Tamer and Cat, “Twins have a strange impact. It was a company and a whole new way to interact good decision.” Cherry Creek/Mankato Ballet with our brand,” said Anne Wolff, Designer and Sales and Marketing rep at Snell. Clearly, they were right. RVW Raw Factor Circus Show Girl Malterer Mechanical

Most Wearable 1/2 fish, 1/2 human Rickway Carpet

Cirque du Freak Partners for Affordable Housing

People’s Choice Double headed queen Liv Aveda

Founders Favorite Snell Motors Cover windup girls

10 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 One Bright Star This year’s recipient of the Raw Fusion Fashion Show fundraiser Home Holidays! was One Bright Star. The organization was founded in 1998 by four women who had all lost a child. The non-profit’s mission is to provide support for grieving families. The organization works to accomplish their mission in a variety of ways. The Star Symbol offers a way to help people recognize and reach out to those who have suffered the loss of a child. They also strive to create a legacy for the children they have lost. Erlandson Park is the home of a memorial that was fully funded by the city. Building materials were donated as well as volunteer labor. The thirty foot fountain and reflection pool was erected in the spring of 2003. It offers friends and family a place to gather and remember. Moreover, they work to educate the population on grief, provide Fresh & Fun Styles a listening ear, and help make people more comfortable talking about their loss. for Your Home Donations help make this important work possible in the Featuring : Southern Motion, Ashley, Marshfield & Best Chair Furniture. Shaw, community. Amy Kolb, the Executive Officer for MRBA in Mankato, Mohawk & Congoleum Floorcovering. Englander & Corsicana Bedding. reported that this year’s recipient, One Bright Star, received $20,000 from the event. It was a huge jump from the first year proceeds of $1,500. Hayden’s Furniture “The donation means beyond what we can put in words,” said Bradley Wolfe, Executive Director for One Bright Star, “The outreach & Floorcovering and awareness itself by being linked to Raw Fusion was more than We sell quality for less. Just ask your neighbor. we could ever ask.” 507-723-5415 haydenfurnitureandfloorcovering.com One Bright Star, being a small non-profit, plans to savor the funds in helping to build their mission. “We are in no hurry to spend 14 East Central Springfield, MN 56087 everything,” said Wolfe. Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-3; Evenings by appt. 047366

048263 048123 048123

048121 Malia (Krohn) Wiley worked on a painting in her studio, just off the kitchen of the Wiley home south of Lake Crystal. Created as part of Malia Wiley’s emerging artist grant project, this painting (below) earned a merit award at the 2014 Minnesota State Fair.

14 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Two loves become one passion

Story and photos by Ruth Klossner Animals or art? For a time, the two seemed to pull Malia (Krohn) Wiley in different directions. “When I was growing up, the question was, ‘Should I be an artist or a vet tech?’ I worked at the Nicollet Veterinary Clinic in high school. I still wanted to be connected with animals but I loved art,” Wiley explained. Malia found the perfect way to combine her loves—by painting commissioned animal portraits for people who love their animals. But that’s not the only way that the Nicollet native is expressing herself through art. Wiley, who now lives south of Lake Crystal with husband Micah, is growing her art through grants, art shows, and promotions. The daughter of Larry and Shirley Krohn, Malia is 2004 graduate of Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School. She went on to earn a degree in art from Bethany Lutheran Collage in Mankato. Until just a few weeks ago, she worked outside the art community—at Christy’s Café in North Mankato, BENCHS Humane Society, and St. Peter Food Co-op—while also promoting herself and doing commissioned work. During that busy time, she also created the 60-foot mural in the “Grow It Gallery” at the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota. That mural includes elements of work that Wiley completed when she was awarded an Emerging Artist Grant through the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council. “With that grant, I based my work around how food is raised and grown. Using my farm background, I did a body of work based around vegetables, animals, and farmers,” Wiley said. That work was so successful that Wiley’s painting of a cabbage received a merit award at the State Fair. “That was pretty awesome for a first time entrant. Of 600 entries, 100 were accepted and only five or six received merit awards,” Wiley explained. From there, Wiley has expanded her work even more, including children and landscapes. She recently received a $3,000 McKnight Fellowship Grant that will allow her to push her career to the next level by creating a web site (paintingsbymalia.com/), advertising, and completing another body of work. Her current project is centered around her interest in making things. It combines Malia’s love of animals with her love of crocheting. As unlikely as the combination may seem, Malia’s painting of a deer with a crocheted afghan has people talking. “I was thinking that crocheting is warm and I like doing animals. The deer

head that my dad had since before I was born kept popping up. I put it s

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 15 “Satisfaction comes from the creating process.”

together with the afghan and people love it,’ Malia explained. The painting has already been entered in two shows, was accepted, and won awards at both. It has also been entered for this year’s Minnesota State Fair, but selections have not yet been announced.

“I’ve started other paintings with Above: Wiley’s work graces the wall of the the same theme—monarchs and “Grow It Gallery” in the Children’s Museum crocheted flowers, roosters crowing of Southern Minnesota in Mankato. The in front of an afghan, geese flying mural is 60 feet long and is 13 feet tall at in front of the afghan pattern Flying the highest, before wrapping around and Geese,” she said. tapering down to three feet. Receiving those grants has also At left: While a deer and an afghan may helped Malia to develop the seem an unlikely combination, Malia Wiley second side of her artwork. While has put the two together in a way that commissioned work continues to people appreciate. Wiley’s painting has keep her busy, she enjoys creating already won two awards—and has been nominated for entry to this year’s Minnesota artwork just for herself. State Fair. “Satisfaction comes from the creating Below: Working with several other artists process. The actual making of the from the St. Peter Arts Center, Malia Wiley art is very enjoyable. What’s super created and built the mannequin, faces, satisfying is that people enjoy it and hands for this model in this year’s Raw enough to want a piece for their own Fusion Fashion Show. Photo by Daniel home,” Wiley said. Dinsmore Photography. Malia’s course of action is to continue producing commissioned work as people feel a real connection to the subjects. Ultimately, however, she’d like to sell the work that she “just creates.” To do that, she’s keeping her work visible. She has work displayed at Salvage Sisters in Mankato, she does classes at the Children’s Museum, she’s part of the Business Wiley used aluminum duct tape, window screens, Networking International group in Tyvek wrapping, and other building materials to Mankato, she paints at the North create an outfit that included a mannequin and Mankato Farmers Market (at Messiah arms coming out of the model’s skirt. Lutheran, Mondays 4 to 7 pm), and she takes part in shows around the Commissioned animal paintings are usually done area. You’ll find her at Art Splash, Arts from photos submitted by clients. Wiley asks for by the River, Rock Bend Folk Festival, multiple photos to help put the project together. Maker Fair, and more. While most of her work is generated locally, Facebook has driven more out-of-state work. Wiley has also designed costumes for Raw Fusion, the abstract fashion show “A painting is a really unique gift. I get super busy at that supports causes in the Mankato Christmas. If you’re thinking about it, please contact area. For this year’s “Cirque du Freak,” me early,” she said. RVW

16 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 241 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato, MN 507.345.8084

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507-380-5019 | blinds-more.com | Give us a call today. entrepreneurial businesses, namely in health care, architecture and real estate at present. The portfolio tends toward rapid growth companies that are changing quickly. It can be a steep learning curve, which doesn’t faze the firm. “We like those exciting kind of crazy challenges as long as we can manage those deadlines a little bit so we’re not up all the time, working all T the time,” Halbur said. With a passionate team of three, Saga has similar offerings to a larger agency: brand identity and strategy, marketing and communication planning, project management, design, advertising, website development, social media support, direct mail development and event planning. “We have a lot of diversity in the product we can deliver for people,” Halbur said. After starting in the software sales and development industry, Halbur followed her storytelling bent to marketing and communication. In a city making big strides in arts and culture, it’s a great time to be part of Mankato’s creative community, Halbur said. Sierra Kamatchus and Kari Halbur Her role at Saga focuses on finding customers and handling projects, while she relies on Kamatchus to transfer creative vision to paper and screen. Opening the Door Majoring in graphic design was a leap of faith for Kamatchus, with no general coursework to fall back on should she change her mind. But to a new saga she’s loved art since she was little and dove in, graduating in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree Photo and story by Marie Zimmerman from the University of Minnesota – Duluth. The Mankato native’s creative talents are many, and In Norse mythology, Saga is the goddess to start Saga Design Group. Along with her breadth of experience belies her recent of history. She deals in poetry and tales, independent designer Sierra Kamatchus arrival on the professional creative scene, said writing down the past and peering into the and Twin Cities-based marketing and Halibur, who first worked with Kamatchus at future. Sharing a Scandinavian heritage and communication strategist Tim Klein, Red Door. Iappreciation for storytelling, Kari Halbur Halbur is cultivating a smaller client base “I absolutely could not do what I do without launched her new creative services firm that understands and appreciates what a Sierra,” Halbur said. “She’s definitely the queen with the deity’s name. professional creative firm can do. She likes of the design.” the theory more is not simply better. “I think people like listening to a good story, Without a traditional office, Halbur and and I like telling a good story,” said Halbur, a “I’m heading into the twilight of my career Kamatchus conduct business from home, fixture of the Mankato creative scene since so I’m trying to decide how much and coffee shops and client sites. Recently they founding independent advertising agency what,” Halbur said. met at Halbur’s Lake Washington home, Red Door Creative in 1995. punctuating business with recreation. Saga delivers strategic planning and While acknowledging Red Door was a branding expertise to emerging and high- “We had a meeting, we jumped in the kayak critical piece of her career, Halbur’s focus growth businesses, with clients ranging and then we had another meeting. We walked is forward. Last year, she left Red Door from early-stage startups to growth-stage through the woods and then we had another

20 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 meeting. It’s kind of a more holistic approach to make things work. It’s At home, Halbur and her husband are recent “empty nesters,” both a little bit different than what we were used to,” Halbur said. “We’ve sons having graduated high school. She characterizes herself as agreed that the kayaking and the woods walk probably need to be a “family centric” but also enjoys biking, skiing, cooking and traveling. weekly occurrence because we were brilliant after we did that.” In Kamatchus’ spare time, she enjoys the outdoors, playing the violin They also work from Envision Lab, a membership-based coworking and spending time with her family and friends. She appreciates that space founded in downtown Mankato by freelance business Saga’s schedule gives her a chance for things like a long lunch with her consultant Katie Boone. Envision Lab offers people access to shared grandmother. office space and the opportunity to socially network with other “It’s just really nice to spend those extra moments with the people professionals and entrepreneurs. T close to you,” Kamatchus said. Several new businesses have evolved since she became a member “We had a meeting, we jumped in the kayak and then of of Envision Lab, Kamatchus said, and she thinks the idea behind it we had another meeting. We walked through the has set a spark to the local creative woods and then we had another meeting. It’s kind community. of a more holistic approach to make things work.” “They’re doing stuff not only for writers or designers or art makers, it’s also craft makers, musicians. They’ve just done a nice job of letting A brick-and-mortar office is likely somewhere down the road for Saga, people do their own thing and believing in each other, to get out there as is the possibility of serving select clients in the Twin Cities metro and do what they want to do and kind of get away from the corporate through their connection with Klein. For now, the young company has world,” Kamatchus said. plenty on its plate. Saga embraces the flexibility of freelance culture, allowing Halbur “Our ultimate desire is to see that the business be incredibly successful and Kamatchus to focus on personal lives as they pursue professional and to make the people that we work with to look really good to their goals. Their intentional portfolio of clients paired with disciplined time CEOs or their presidents or whomever. And nothing makes us happier management and goal setting helps build work around life. than when a product or a business succeeds because of our efforts,” Halbur said. RVW

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 21 Go. Be. Do. Connect! To have your event listed, please e-mail Ruth Klossner at [email protected] by the 15th of the month. Listings are generally for events that are free to the public, or are fund-raisers. Listings will be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.

Fri., Jul. 8 run, food, beer, craft vendors, • MVL Wine Pairing Event, more. Children's march each • Movies in the Park, Jefferson bingo, exotic zoo, pedal pull, Country Club, New Ulm, 5:30 concert with bubbles and Park, 1401 Nicollet Ave., St. Pe- street dance, car show, parade, pm. MVL alumnus & culinary surprises. Bring blanket or lawn ter. Showing ‘Hotel Transylvania chicken dinner. Info: winthrop- expert Topher Jacobson will pair chair. Rain cancels. Info: 507- 2’ on 16-ft. inflatable screen just [email protected] or wines with culinary creations; 387-6990 or mankatoareacom- after sunset. Recreation staff will 507-647-2627. southwestern buffet dinner fol- [email protected]. lead activities one hour before lows. Info & cost: mvl.org/news- sunset. Free admission, conces- • Trimont FunFest, Anderson Park, events/events/golf-classic/ or Tues., Jul. 12, 19 & 26, Aug. 2, sions available. Info: 934.0667. Trimont. Sports, bingo, games, [email protected]. 9 & 16 entertainment, food, raffles, • Henderson Classic Car Roll In, Fri., Jul. 8, 15 & 22 parade, silent auction, rides, Mon., Jul. 11, 18 & 25, Aug. 1 historic Main Street, Henderson, • Lafayette Ice Cream Socials games & carnival food. Info: 507- & 8 5 pm. Food, fun, music & car & Band Concerts, downtown 236-0755. • Music in the Park, Library Square talk. Rain or shine. Info: face- Lafayette. Socials served by Park, Hutchinson, 6:30 pm. 37th book.com/hendersonrollin or community groups, starting at Sat., Jul. 9 year of free concerts. Local twitter.com/hendersonrollin. 5:30 p.m.; outdoor concerts by • Madelia Community Hospital nonprofit host sells goodies as Lafayette Band, 7:30 pm. Info: Foundation River Run 5K, 519 fundraiser. Info: 320-587-5252. Wed., Jul. 13, 20 & 27 507-228-8241. Dill Ave. SW, Madelia. Medals • Municipal Band Concert, awarded in age groups, team Mon, Jul. 11 & 18 and Aug. 1, German Park, New Ulm, 7 pm. Fri., July 8 & 22, Aug. 5 & 19 with most participants & fastest 8 & 15 Marches, novelty & show tunes. • Classic Car Fridays at Dave’s team. Everyone invited—run- • Concert in the Park Series, Free. Place, downtown Lafayette. ners, walkers, families with German Park, New Ulm, 7 pm. Hundreds of cars, food & drink strollers & spectators. Info: 612- Free, co-sponsored by NU Park Wed., Jul. 13 & 27 and Aug. 10 available. Info: Facebook or 507- 688-9143. & Rec. & KNUJ. Concerts move & 24 228-8910. to Civic Center, 1212 N. Franklin, • Bike Night Wednesdays at Sat.-Sun., Jul. 9-10 if weather bad. Dave’s Place, downtown Lafay- Fri.-Sat., July 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 • ArtStock Art and Wine Festival, ette. Hundreds of bikes, food & • Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, Parley Lake Winery, Waconia. Mon.-Sat., Jul. 11-16 drink available. Info: Facebook Walnut Grove. Outdoor drama 12-7 pm Sat., 12-5 pm Sun. Pho- • ‘Peter Pan’ presented by Healthy or 507-228-8910. based on life of Laura Ingalls tography, sculpture, wearable Communities Healthy Youth & Wilder. “Ma Ingalls” Karen arts, glass, fibers, painting & Prairie Fire Theater, New Ulm Wed., Jul. 13, 20 & 27, Aug. 3, Grassle to attend July 15 & 16. more. Info: http://artsofcarver- Senior High Gym, 414 S. Payne, 10 & 17 Info: 888-859-3102 or wilderp- county.org/. New Ulm. For students entering • Music on Main, 5th & Main, ageant.org. 3rd-9th grades. Rehearse Mon.- downtown Gaylord, 5-7 pm. Sun., Jul. 10 Fri.; shows, Fri. 7 pm & Sat. 1 pm. Different music group each Fri.- Sun., Jul. 8-10 • Christmas in July at the Harkin No cost. Info: 507-354-8632 or week. Farmers’ Market (crafts, • North Mankato Fun Days, five Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, New [email protected]. flea market & food), 4 pm. Info: days of fun for all ages—parade, Ulm, 1-4 pm. Site managed by 507-237-2338 or anewsom@ kiddie parade, carnival, softball Nicollet County Historical Soci- Mon.-Sun., Jul. 11-17 exploregaylord.org. tournaments, live music. Info: ety. Info: 507-354-8666. • Corn Chaff Days, Hector. Fun ac- 507-385-6679 or visitmanka- tivities for all ages. Info: hector. Thurs., Jul. 14 tomn.com. Mon., Jul. 11 govoffice.com/. • Sleepy Eye Medical Center Golf • LiverFest, New Ulm Community Tournament, Sleepy Eye Golf • Madelia Park Days, Watona Park, Center, 600 N German, New Tues., Jul. 12 Club, 27898 US Hwy 14, shotgun Madelia. Golf tourneys, grand Ulm, 1-3 pm. Recipe contest, live • Alice Lind Play Reading Society, start at noon. Info: 507-794-8475 parade (Fri. 7 pm), moonlight remote with KNUJ, live music, John Lind House, 622 Center or mmages@semedicalcenter. swim, pedal pull, kid's carnival, punch & coffee. Info: newulmse- Street, New Ulm, 7 pm. Reading org. musical entertainment & fire- niors.org or castnu@newulmtel. ‘Adam & Eve’ by Mark Twain. works (Fri.). Blues Festival, Mad- net. Info & registration: execdir@ • Music in the Park, Allison elia Scrub Run/Walk 5K, food, statestreetnewulm.org or 507- Park, 4th Ave. NW, Sleepy Eye, Rivers Edge Art & More Fair. Info: • MVL Golf Classic, Country Club, 359-9990. 6:30 pm. Music by Sleepy Eye http://visitmadelia.com/. New Ulm, noon. 18 holes of golf, Concertina Club; root beer & cart, lunch, dinner & wine tast- Tues., Jul. 12, & 19 pop corn available. Free will • Farm City Fun Fest, Winthrop. ing in support of MVL Tuition • Free Concert in Sibley Park, near donations to Beyond the Yellow 10K team relay, 1K & 5K run, Assistance Program. Info & cost: petting zoo, Mankato, 7:30 pm. Ribbon. Bring chairs. Info: 507- 3-on-3 BB, volleyball & softball mvl.org/news-events/events/ Mankato Area Community Band 794-4731. tourneys, distracted driving golf-classic/ or [email protected]. performs standards, patriotic course, benefit motorcycle music, show tunes, marches, 22 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 • Winthrop’s Music in the Park, 7 • Riversong Music Festival, tournament, parade, meal. Info: Sun., Jul. 17 pm, Winthrop. Music by Myron Masonic/West River Park, Les 507-728-8740. • Shopping with Laura Ingalls pro- Wolff; free will offering refresh- Kouba Parkway, Hutchinson. gram, Harkin Store, 66289 Co. ments. Sponsored by Winthrop Acoustic music, music by artists • German Wine Fest, Morgan Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Site Lions & Chamber of Commerce. & bands from all over nation. Creek Vineyards, 23707 478th managed by Nicollet County Info: winthropminnesota.com/. Multiple stages with folk, blues, Avenue, New Ulm. Music around Historical Society. Info: 507-354- roots, Americana, acoustic jazz, burning bowl, appetizers, wine 8666. • Bavarian Blast Pre-Fest, Fair- & Celtic. Info: 320-587-2599. by the bottle or glass. Open to grounds, 712 12th N. St., New public. Info: 507-233-4300 or Wed.-Sat., Jul. 20-23 Ulm. Two bands, food & bever- Fri.-Sun., Jul. 15-17 newulm.com. • American Legion Sub-State #2 ages. Info: info@bavarianblast. • Bavarian Blast, Fairgrounds, 712 Baseball Tournament, Johnson com. 12th N. St., New Ulm. 3 stages Sat., Jul. 16 & Mueller Parks, New Ulm. Info: of entertainment. Barrel rolling, • Civilian Conservation Corp newulmlegionbaseball.org or • Monthly Car Hop & Shop Classic wiener dog races, stein holding Hiking Tour, Fort Ridgely State [email protected]. Car Cruise In, Minnesota St. from & kraut eating contests, food Park, 6 mi S of Fairfax, off Hwy 4, 1st South to 4th North, New & beverage; parade Sunday. 1 pm. Hiking tour explains park’s Thurs.-Sun., Jul. 21-24 Ulm. All makes and models, Camping available onsite. Info: rich history with the CCC & Vet- • Shrek the Musical by Redwood classic cars & bikes; shop & grab 507-359-2222 or info@bavarian- erans Conservation Corp (VCC). Area Theater. a bite to eat. Info: cara@newulm. blast.com. Start at Commissary building. com or newulm.com. Info: 507-508-2848. Fri., Jul. 22 • Bar B Q Days, Belle Plaine. BBQ • Movies in the Park, Jefferson Fri., Jul. 15 beef sandwiches, carnival, beer • Bavarian Blast 5k & 10k Run/ Park, 1401 Nicollet Ave., St. Peter, • ‘Emperor’s New Clothes: garden, live entertainment, fun Walk, New Ulm, 8 am. Prizes dusk. Showing ‘Little Giants’ on Children's Theater,’ Community run, non-profit food vendors, for best dressed & group with 16-ft. inflatable screen just after Center, 600 N. German St., New fireworks. Info: 952-873-0855 or most participants. Proceeds to sunset. Recreation staff to lead Ulm, 7 pm. 50s rock to 20s jazz belleplainefestivals.org. American Legion Community activities one hour before sun- to Celtic & more. Youth Projects. set. Free admission, concessions • Summer Festival, Welcome. available. Info: 507-934-0667. Fri.-Sat., July 15-16 Chicken feed, street dances, • MAD Girls Roller Derby, Verizon • Crazy Days, New Ulm. Sidewalk citywide rummage sales, Wireless Center Arena, 1 Civic Fri.-Sat., Jul. 22-23 sales, treats. Info: chamber@ bake sale, slow-pitch softball Center Arena, Mankato. Info: • Heat in the Street, City Center newulm.com or 507-233-4300. mankatoareaderbygirls.com/. Parking Lot, downtown Glencoe.

Annual fire dept. fundraiser; live s

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 23 music all weekend. Info: 320- 953-0094 or montgomerymn. National Night Out to promote Info: winthropminnesota.com/. 864-3650 org/tour-de-bun-bike-classic/. safety in community, get to know organizations & enjoy Tues.-Thurs., Aug. 2-4 Fri.-Sun., Jul. 22-24 • Geocaching 101, Flandrau State friendly night out with food, fun • Farmfest, Gilfillan Estate, 28269 • ‘Lights Up!’ Variety Show Park, New Ulm, 2 pm. High & music. Info: 507-794-4731. Hwy 67, Morgan. 8 am-5 pm Fundraiser for State Street tech treasure hunt; GPS units Tues.; 8 am-4 pm Wed. & Thurs. Theater, New Ulm Community provided. Limit of 20 people. Fri., Jul. 29 National trade show attracts up Center, 600 N. German St., New Prior reservation required at • Movies in the Park, Jefferson to 40,000 visitors a year. Info: Ulm. 7:30 pm Fri. & Sat., 2 pm park office. Info: 507-384-8890 or Park, 1401 Nicollet Ave., St. Peter, 507-249-3451 or ideaggroup. Sun. Singing, acting, comedy [email protected]. dusk. Showing ‘Inside Out’ on com. & dancing; tickets at door. Info: 16-ft. inflatable screen just after statestreetnewulm.org. • Digital Nature Photography, sunset. Recreation staff to lead Thurs.-Sun., Aug. 4-7 Flandrau State Park, New Ulm, 4 activities one hour before sun- • 19th Annual Ribfest, Vetter • Kolacky Days - Czech Festival, pm. Learn how to use a digital set. Free admission, concessions Stone Amphitheater, Mankato. Memorial Park, 500 5th St. SE, camera; cameras provided. Limit available. Info: 507-934-0667. 5-11 pm Thurs.-Sat., noon-5 & downtown, Montgomery. of 20 people. Prior reservation Sun. Rib tasting, live bands, kids Authentic Kroj costumes, Czech required at park office. Info: • Relay for Life of Redwood games. Info: mankatoribfest.com dancing, Bohemian tractor pull, 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ County, Redwood County or 507-385-6679. classic cars, parade, carnival, state.mn.us. Fairgrounds, 201 N. DeKalb, Red- sporting events. Info: 507-953- wood Falls, 4 pm. Info: 800-227- Fri.-Sun., Aug. 5-7 0094 or montgomerymn.org. Sat.-Sun., Jul. 23-24 2345 or facebook.com/rwfrelay. • Giant Celebration, Legion Park, • Minnesota Pottery Festival, Clay 155 S. Park Ln., Le Sueur. Daily • Catfish Derby Days, Minnesota Coyote Gallery, 17614 240th St, Sat., Jul. 30 activities for all ages. 100+ unit River, Franklin, 3 pm-12 am. Hutchinson. Sat. 10 am-5 pm; • Archery in the Park, Flandrau parade 1 pm Sun.; corn feed fol- Fishing tournament. Info: www. Sun 12-4 pm. Work of 20 US art- State Park, New Ulm, 2 pm. lows. Crowning of Miss Le Sueur franklinmn.us or 320-583-0763. ists; pots, potters, competitions; Learn basics of archery (safety, ends event. Info: 665-2501. throwing, handbuilding & Raku care of the equipment & how to • Truman Days, Truman. City- demos; kids tent; food. Info: 320- use a bow), practice new skills • Scott-Carver Threshers Harvest wide rummage sales, sporting 587-2599. on target. Info: 507-384-8890 or Festival, Scott Co. Fairgrounds, events, craft fair, kids' games [email protected]. 19375 Fairview Ln., Jordan. & inflatables, kids' pedal pull, Sun., Jul. 24 Tractors, gas & steam engines & parade, street dance, more. Info: • Afternoon of Leisure, Harkin • MAD Bull 5k, Mankato Brewery, machinery. Pancake breakfast, 507-776-7951. Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, New Lower North Mankato 2 pm. crafts, food, daily parade, live Ulm, 1-4 pm. Site managed by Offers thrill of running with the music, vintage baseball game, Sat., Jul. 23 Nicollet County Historical Soci- bulls in Pamplona, Spain but more. Info: 952-686-3191 or 952- • Nicollet County Farm Bureau ety. Info: 507-354-8666. runners will be chased by roller 492-2062. Breakfast on the Farm, Nicollet derby girls. Door prizes, T-shirt, County Fairgrounds, 400 Union Sun.-Mon., Jul. 24-25 bandana, beverages. Proceeds Sat., Aug. 6 St., St. Peter, 7:30-10:30 am. • New Ulm B&L Golf Classic, 1 Golf to Mankato Area Derby, local • Minnesota Brain Injury Force Breakfast & farm exhibits. No Drive, New Ulm. Info: 507-354- non-profit, amateur sports Breakfast Brunch Buffet & Silent charge but donations accepted. 8896. team. Info: facebook.com/ Auction, Pub 500, Mankato, 11 events/1747895852113532/. am-2 pm. Survivors supporting • Becoming an Outdoors Wom- Mon., Jul. 25 survivors. Entertainment by an—Family Canoeing, Cedar • National Night Out, German Sun., Jul. 31 Retro Ron. Advance tickets at Lake Farm Regional Park, 25875 Park, 200 N. German St., New • Day in Life of a Pioneer Woman First Nat’l Bank, Mankato. Info: Juniper Ave., New Prague. Have Ulm. Family fun to help fight program, Harkin Store, 66289 507-228-8161. fun, be safe & learn proper crime. Music by Schell’s Hobo Co. Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. paddling techniques. Ages 5-8 Band, kids’ games, food, more. Site managed by Nicollet County Sun., Aug. 7 may ride with adult. Info, cost & Sponsored by NU Police Dept., Historical Society. Info: 507-354- • 37th Annual West Newton Day, registration: ThreeRiversParks. Park & Rec, Fire Department & 8666. Harkin Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, org or 763-694-7777. United Way. Info: nupd.dave. New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Site managed [email protected]. Mon., Aug. 1 by Nicollet County Historical • Blues on Belgrade, Range & • 1st Annual Last Man Club Golf Society. Info: 507-354-8666. Belgrade Streets, 301 Belgrade Mon.-Fri., Jul. 25-29 & Aug. 1-5 Tournament, Le Sueur Country Ave., No. Mankato, 12-11:30 pm. • ‘Honk’ Musical Theater Camp, Club, Shotgun start 1 pm. 4 Mon.-Fri., Aug. 8-12 Blues music by local & nat’l acts, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. For ages 11 to person scramble to support • ‘Our Own Gulliver’s Travels: An food, sunshine (usually) & fun. 18. Co-sponsored by New Ulm St. Peter Area Veterans Me- Original Version,’ Workshop, Info: 507-388-1062. Park & Rec. & State Street The- morial. Info: facebook.com/ New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Co-sponsored ater Co. Free performances Aug. events/765509000215308/. by NU Park & Rec. and State • Tour de Bun Bicycle Classic, 500 5, 7:30 pm & Aug. 6, 2 pm. Cost & Street Theater Co. Ages 6 to 18. 5th St. SE, Montgomery, 8 am. info: statestreetnewulm.org. Tues., Aug. 2 Free performance Aug. 12, 7:30 Two routes with three loops— • Winthrop’s Music in the Park, 7 pm. Info & cost: 507-359-6060. 13-mile, 33-mile or 50-mile loop Thurs., Jul. 28 pm, Winthrop. Music by Larry on paved, lightly traveled roads; • Party in the Park, 4th Ave. NW, Mages. Sponsored by Winthrop Tues., Aug. 9 refreshment stops. Info: 507- Sleepy Eye. Modeled after Lions & Chamber of Commerce. • Alice Lind Play Reading Society, 24 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 John Lind House, 622 Center • Belle Plaine River Fishing Tourna- to. 5k or 3k courses with difficult ety. Info: 507-354-8666. Street, New Ulm, 7 pm. Reading ment, Minnesota River, Belle hill climbs, numerous obstacles. ‘All My Sons’ by Arthur Miller. Plaine, 8 am-4 pm. Info & cost: Proceeds benefit Team Winter, • Czech Heritage Festival, 735th Info & registration: execdir@ 612-232-9834. a charity for cancer research, Ave., Bechyn, 10 am-6 pm. Ethnic statestreetnewulm.org or 507- and Loyola Boosters Club. foods, music, entertainment, 359-9990. • Dine in the Vines, 14848 Hwy. 7 Professionally timed, trophies, folk dancers, children's activities East, Hutchinson, 6-10 pm. Local- medals, T-shirts & goodie bags. & farmers market. Info: 320-826- Thur., Aug. 11 ly grown foods prepared by Chef Info: 507-625-2525 or rkanoots@ 2451 or 320-826-2385. • Monthly Car Hop & Shop Classic Nick & inspired by sustainable gmail.com. Car Cruise In, Minnesota St. from agriculture. Live music, wine & • Just Bassn, Washington Lake, 1st South to 4th North, New Ulm. beer in vineyard until sunset, af- • Vines, Wines, and Good Times in Madison Lake, 6:30 am-noon. All makes and models, classic terparty with live music in Great the Vineyard, Indian Island Win- Bass fishing tournament. Info: cars & bikes; shop & grab a bite Hall. Info & tickets: 320-587-2922 ery, 18018 631st Ave., Janesville, 507-381-7485. to eat. Info: [email protected]. or crowriverwinery.com/events/ 12:30 pm. Music afternoon & dine-in-the-vines. evening. Info: 507-234-6222. • North Mankato Triathlon, Hiniker • Winthrop’s Music in the Park, Pond, 300 Butterworth St., 7 pm, Winthrop. Music by Sun., Aug. 13 Sun., Aug. 13-Sun., Sept. 25 Mankato. Packet pick-up Sat., Wendinger Band; free will offer- • Post 108 Sons of the American • Smithsonian Exhibit—Water/ adult race 8 am Sun., 1/4 mi. ing refreshments. Sponsored by Legion Fishing Contest, lakes Ways, Treaty Site History Center, swim, 12 mi. bike, 3 mi. run. Kids’ Winthrop Lions & Chamber of surrounding Marysburg, 7 am-2 1851 N. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. race 3 pm Sun., no experience Commerce. Info: winthropmin- pm. Info: 507-317-4377. Reveals central nature of water necessary. Fee includes t-shirt, nesota.com/. in life, explores water use, effects swim cap, snacks. Info: 507-664- • Garlic Festival, McLeod Co. Fair- on life & how Americans protect 9438. Sat., Aug. 12 grounds, 840 Century Ave SW, resource for the future. Info: • Archery in the Park, Flandrau Hutchinson, 10 am-6 pm, rain or nchsmn.org/sites/ or 507-934- • Threshing Day, Heritage Acres, State Park, New Ulm, 3 pm. Learn shine. Food, celebrity chefs, mu- 2160. 507 W. Lake Ave., Fairmont, 1pm. basics of archery (safety, care sic, area artisans, goofy games Antique tractor displays, food of the equipment & how to use & lots of garlic. Info: sfa-mn.org/ Sun., Aug. 14 stand. Info: heritageacresmn.org a bow), practice new skills on garlicfest/. • Old Time Games Day at Harkin or 507-238-4645. a target. Info: 507-384-8890 or Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, New [email protected]. • Mankato Mud Run, Loyola Hill, Ulm, 1-4 pm. Site managed by Mon., Aug. 15

145 Good Counsel Drive, Manka- Nicollet County Historical Soci- • New Ulm Medical Center Foun- s

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 25 dation Golf Tournament, New corn, tomatoes); strawberries, soap, lotions, hand-sewn items, wellness related services. Thur. Ulm Country Club, noon shotgun raspberries, melons, apples, woodcrafts. Early May-end of 4-7:30 p.m. start. Proceeds benefit Heart of pumpkins, squash, gourds; Oct., Sat. 8 am-noon; Tue. & Thur. New Ulm Project. Info & cost: honey, preserves & baked goods. 3:30-6 pm. County Fairs allinahealth.org/newulm or sara. Jun.-Oct., Wed. 4-6 pm, in con- • Redwood County, Redwood [email protected]. junction with Music on Main. • Morton Farmers Market, city hall Falls, Wed.-Sun., Jul. 13-17 parking lot, Hwy 19 downtown. Mon.-Sun., Aug. 15-21 • Glencoe Area Farmers Market, Garden fresh fruits & vegetables, • Waseca County, Waseca, Wed.- • 1862 US-Dakota War Commemo- 1107 11th St., adjacent to historic home baked goods. Mid Jun.-fall; Sun., Jul. 13-17 ration, New Ulm. Series of events City Center building. Fruits & times vary—call 507-697-6912. throughout week, hosted by vegetables, flowers, herbs. Mid- • Watonwan County, St James, Brown County Historical Society. Jun.-Oct., Thurs. 3-6 pm. • North Mankato Farmers Market, Thurs.-Sun., Jul. 14-17 Info: 507-233-4300 or newulm. Messiah Lutheran Church, 1706 • Scott County, Jordan, Wed.-Sun., com. • Hector Farmers Market, junc- Lee Blvd. Craft & food vendors. tion Hwy 212 & Cty Rd 4 (SCGE Mon. 4-7 pm, June-Sept. Jul. 27-31 C-Store). Garden fresh fruits & Farmers Markets • Blue Earth County, Garden City, • Buffalo Lake Farm & Flea Market, vegetables, canned & baked • New Prague Farmers Market, Thurs.-Sat., Jul. 28-30 city park on Hwy 212. Garden goods. Jul.-fall, Wed. 3-6 pm. Community Baptist Church parking lot, 500 Cty Rd 37. Fruits, fresh fruits & vegetables, flowers, • Sibley County, Arlington, Wed.- • Hutchinson Farmers Market, vegetables, baked products, crafts, mittens, breads, pies, Sun., Aug. 3-7 baked goods. Jun. 11-fall, Sat. 8 open air pavilion at 25 Adams flowers, honey, jelly, herbs, an- am-noon. St. SE. Vegetables, fruits, honey, nuals, perennials. Mid May-Oct., • Meeker County, Litchfield, herbs, baked goods, flowers, Sat. 9 am-noon; mid May-Jun., Thurs.-Sun., Aug. 4-7 • Fairfax Farmers Market, 1st St., SE preserves, crafts & meats. Mid Wed. 3-6 pm. of Hwy 19. Garden fresh produce, May-Oct., Wed. 2:30-5:30 pm & • Renville County, Bird Island, breads, baked goods, seasonal Sat. 8 am-noon. • Olivia Farmers Market, city park- Wed.-Fri., Aug. 10-12 flowers. Mid June-Sept., Tue. 4 ing lot, 9th St. & Fairview. Garden pm. • Mankato Farmers Market, Best fresh produce, fresh breads, • Brown County, New Ulm, Wed.- Buy parking lot, 1895 Adams St. baked goods, canned & pickled Sun., Aug. 10-14 • Gaylord Farmers Market, down- Fresh local produce, sustainably items, crafts, jams, jellies, eggs, town, 5th & Main Ave. Vegeta- raised meat, bedding plants, chickens, flowers. Jul. 14-Oct., • Carver County, Waconia, Wed.- bles (beans, carrots, cucumbers, cut flowers, eggs, honey, baked Thur. 1:30-5:30 pm. Sun., Aug. 10-14 onions, peppers, potatoes, sweet goods, berries, herbs, preserves, • Redwood Falls Farmers Market, • Nicollet County, St. Peter, Wed.- Sun., Aug. 10-14 047887 1220 E. Bridge St. Vegetables, fruits, cut flowers, cheeses, honey, eggs & chicken; preserved • Steele County Free, Owatonna, Attention fruits, vegetables, salsas, pickles, Tues.-Sun., Aug. 16-21 breads & pies. Tue. 2-5:30 pm, Quilters! • Tri-County, Mankato, Wed., Aug. Sat. 8 am-noon. 17 • St. Peter Farmers Market, down- Two EvEnTs! • Cottonwood County, Windom, town on Minnesota Ave. Locally Wed.-Sat., Aug. 17-20 Row by Row Experience grown vegetables, baked goods. June 21 - september 6 Jul.-Oct., Tue. 3-6 pm & Sat. 9 • McLeod County, Hutchinson, Quilt Minnesota shop Hop am-noon. Wed.-Sun., Aug. 17-21 July 29 - August 14 • Waconia Farmers Market, City • Le Sueur County, Le Center, Square Park downtown. Farm Thurs.-Sun., Aug. 18-21 Spinning Spools Sewing Seeds The fresh foods, artisan goods & Quilt Shop Quilt Co. Thimble Box 106 S. Minnesota St., 1417 S. State 10 N. Minnesota St. New Ulm New Ulm New Ulm 507-359-2896 507-354-8801 507-354-6721 We see it. Hours: M-F 10-5; Hours: Mon 10-7; Hours.: Sat. 10-4 Tues-Fri. 10-5; M-F 10-5; SpinningSpools Sat. 10-4 Sat. 10-4 QuiltShop.com SewingSeedsQuiltCo.com ThimbleBox.com

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26 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Schedule of eventS 5:30 – 7:30 pm – food from hy vee 6:00 pm – opening ceremony 6:10 – Kathy Sheran 6:30 – Survivor/caregiver lap 6:50 – dance express dancers 7:30 – Mountain lake Singers 8:40 – Pound class 9:00 – luminaria ceremony – Mitzi Roberts 9:20 – Silent lap 10:15 – Movie in the Park

047926 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Women tell their stories of hope

By Annette Perry

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women in the US It was suggested she wait and see, but chose to get a second opinion. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, and it That most likely saved her life. is the second leading cause of death in women. You can help make a Sue’s advice: “Don’t put off getting treatment, and don’t worry about difference by participating in the American Cancer Society’s Making what’s happening next. You have to trust somebody.” Strides Against Breast Cancer, a fundraising event October 8, at 10am, in Spring Lake Park, lower North Mankato. She gave herself a Christmas present that year—surgery—which revealed her cancer had reached Stage 4 in her lymph nodes. She had For the past four years, the Making Strides committee has honored a been preparing for her daughter’s wedding in Cancun, and although “Person of Hope” to stand she wasn’t feeling the best, she didn’t let cancer stop her from before other participants being there. In fact, aside from getting plenty of rest, Sue didn’t let as she bravely tells her cancer change much about her lifestyle. After she endured a litany of story. treatments and setbacks, she has been cancer free now for 8 years. Let’s meet these At the Making Strides Cancer Walk event, everybody gets a hug from incredible women who Sue, survivors and caregivers alike. She walks for her granddaughters. have had this honor. What she likes most about the Strides Walk is when the survivors are Sue Scott, the first introduced, and they say how many years it’s been. Person of Hope honoree “Years ago they didn’t have the medical technology they have today,” in 2012, is a down-to- she said. “It’s wonderful to be able to hug somebody who’s got 25 or earth wife, mother, and 30 years behind them, and their stories are amazing.” grandmother who’s lived in Mankato for 40 years. In 2013, the Strides committee selected three women, Mary Hewitt, She was diagnosed just Barbara Piper, and Maureen Scholl, aka the “Trio of Hope.” They’re Sue Scott before Christmas, during all co-workers who’ve helped and supported each other through a routine mammogram. their diagnoses and treatments. Maureen was diagnosed in 2007,

28 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 LIKE-KIND EXCHANGE • What is an “exchange”? A 1031 tax deferred exchange is an approved technique for selling property that has been used for investment or use in trade or business, and purchasing another like- kind property of greater or equal value while deferring any capital gains taxes.

Howard Haugh • What is a Qualified Property? Property must be held by the Exchangor for either productive use in a trade or business or for investment purposes. Property held for use as a personal residence or primarily for sale, such as inventory, may not qualify. Mary Hewitt, Barbara Piper, and Maureen Scholl • What is “Like-Kind” Property? All U.S. real property is generally “like-kind”. Connie Froehlich Mary in 2008. By the time Barb was diagnosed in 2011, their office Eligible properties can include commercial became a real-life population sample of the “1 in 8” statistic, as there and residential property (excluding your were 24 women working there. The “Trio” continues to be a source of primary residence), farms, apartment buildings, warehouses, inspiration and comfort both to one another and others as they focus on vacant land, etc. life after cancer, or the “new normal.” All three women agree they feel lucky to have each other and want other cancer survivors to know you • How does it work? Let’s say you bought 80 acres of farmland in 1989 for $80,000. That’s your basis. If you were don’t have to go through it alone. You’re a survivor the instant you’re to sell that farm today, it might bring $800,000 – and you diagnosed, according to these survivors, and that’s when you learn would have a $720,000 taxable gain. If your intent upon grace. selling the farm, however, is to acquire other real estate, “If you know someone who’s struggling with a major illness such as §1031 of the Internal Revenue Code allows you to defer that cancer, it means so much to just be there, and sometimes there are no gain. If, for example, you want to reinvest your sale proceeds in other farmland, an apartment building, an office building, words to fix it,” Mary told us. or any other investment real estate, you can do so in what is Barb calls having cancer the good, the bad and the ugly. “The good is called a tax-deferred exchange. that you are reminded of cancer every day, so you learn to accept each day as a gift. The bad was that you are reminded of having cancer every Unless you are merely doing a land swap – in which you trade day (kind of a downer). The ugly is that you are left with emotional, and your farm for real estate owned by the person who acquires physical scars and sometimes some other ugly side effects,” she said. At your farm – you’ll need to engage a Qualified Intermediary. At St. Andrews Title & Exchange, that’s one of the services the event, look for Maureen in the Survivor’s Tent. “It’s the best group we offer. Give us a call. to belong to, if you have to belong to a group of any kind. You’d never choose any one person to join you, but it’s a pretty welcoming group.” The three women mentioned how their husbands stepped up as caregivers, which is no easy task. The Making Strides Event is designed not only Located in Community Bank Building to raise awareness 300 Saint Andrews Drive | Suite 210 and funds for patients Mankato, MN 56001 and survivors, but to 507.385.4459 empower caregivers. Stacey Martin, a Mankato native, was honored as the person of hope in 2014. Stacey has been a nurse for Stacey Martin 20 years and dealt with multiple fibrous s 047522

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 29 lump biopsies since age 27. She was 37 at the time of her Stage 2 to share her story diagnosis. When she got the call, the nurse part of her was retaining of hope. the medical information, but the human side shut down. “It gives me Now that Stacy a lot of insight for those who do not have a medical background.” For has passed her reasons unrelated to cancer, she and her husband had just begun the three-year mark, adoption process. she has no qualms They put their adoption plans on hold, which led them straight to their about taking care daughter, now almost two years old. of her personal self. As hard as it was “Any path that leads us to her, then that’s the right path,” said Stacey. being a caregiver, Being both a new mother and a cancer survivor has helped Stacey to she now has no be more relaxed and less of a perfectionist. She wants others to know issues setting aside that there’s no wrong way to go through or process this experience. time for her health and well-being. “Don’t let other people tell you what you should and shouldn’t do. During the time Whatever you choose is the right choice. Give yourself permission to she spent as a care feel how you want to feel,” she said. Her last surgery was in 2013, and giver for her father she hasn’t looked back. she didn’t have the Stacy Witte When Stacey was the Person of Hope, she was young, and her time to do some daughter was only two months old. This notion changes the of the things she perception of who gets cancer and exemplifies that you can thrive less loved. One of which than a year later. Her greatest coping mechanism is humor, and she was riding horses. Last fall she reconnected to her passion, with the has fun forming rather large teams of Strides participants each year. A help of her daughter-in-law who owns horses. Now she is back in the friend of hers designs fun, event-themed tee shirts. One year she was saddle, keeping a balanced life. RVW team Knock-Off Knockers. As for this year? You’ll have to check out the This is the first of a 4-part series on the Making Strides Cancer Walk Event. event! Part 2 in our August issue will highlight research, recovery and aftercare. Strong-spirited Stacy Witte, a St. Peter native, was last year’s Person of Hope. She and her husband enjoy country life, have two sons, and grandparenthood is right around the corner. When she learned of her Dr. Angela Schuck Stage 3 invasive ductile carcinoma, she was just beginning to adjust Dr. Keith Flack after being a caregiver to her father for six emotionally challenging years. Stacy is grateful that cancer gave her a second chance at life, and that is how she looks at her cancer. “You can’t be grateful and unhappy at the same time.” Stacy attended her first Strides event right after her first chemo treatment. “They have you say your name and how long it had been since your diagnosis. My first chemo had been three days prior, so I still had my hair. I remember them clapping and cheering, and the ‘Wow you’re here’ feeling people gave me. It was solidarity and sisterhood right out of the gates, like a club. I recognized a lot of people I knew and I thought—you too?” Being the Person of Hope was an honor, according to Stacy, and she was happy that someone would want her You Deserve Comfortable Care Every Time.

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30 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 keeps me healthy for my whole family.

I first heard about Open Door because of their free cancer screenings for women. I had my appointment, and thank goodness everything was fine! I am so happy that Open Door is there to take care of me.

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RiveRfRont Hilltop 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. Fermented Foods for Mankato, MN Mankato, MN 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Good Gut Health

Bacteria are often cast as the enemies of good n Kimchi (Korea – fermented vegetables) health, but in fact, your body contains more bac- n teria than there are humans on the face of the Miso (Japan – fermented beans, grains) earth – and most of these are “good” bacteria n Tempeh (Indonesia – fermented beans and that you couldn’t live without. The friendly bac- sometimes grains) Probiotics teria in our bodies crowd out dangerous bacteria and perform many useful functions, especially in n Cheese (Many traditions – fermented milk) Not all bacteria are harmful. “Friendly” bacteria, known as probiotics, are actually good for your digestive our digestive tract, where bacteria help us digest n our food. Yogurt (Many traditions, including India – fer- system. These friendly bacteria live in the intestinal tract along with bad bacteria, and they fight for control of mented milk) your digestive tract. People using antibiotics, eating a poor diet or suffering from diarrhea are more likely to have Fermentation – the word we use to describe the n Kombucha (various Asian traditions – fer- Dietitian April Graff depleted colonies of friendly bacteria. breakdown of food by beneficial bacteria – is MS, RD, LD one of mankind’s oldest ways of preserving food. mented tea) Here are just a few fermented foods that have Friendly bacteria may benefit the body in a number of different ways. Studies have found that probiotics can help Look for more and more true fermented foods long been enjoyed in traditional cultures, and on grocery shelves, as research increasingly reduce traveler’s diarrhea and antibiotic-induced diarrhea, may reduce infections and some allergic responses, can now be found in our stores: shows that eating such foods can help support and improve digestion and the immune system. Talk to your physician or Hy-Vee pharmacist before starting a n Sauerkraut (Germany – fermented cabbage) the good bacteria in our guts that help us main- probiotic supplement. tain our good health.

Miso Salmon ALL you neeD: ALL you Do: 1/2 c. hoisin sauce 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet 1/3 c. Hy-Vee light brown with nonstick spray. sugar 2. For the glaze, in a blender combine hoisin, brown sugar, miso, 1/4 c. miso paste orange juice, ginger, and garlic. Cover and blend until smooth. Set 1/4 c. fresh orange juice aside. 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger 3. Place salmon on prepared baking sheet. Generously brush miso 1 tsp minced garlic sauce on each fillet. 6 (5 oz each) salmon fillets 4. Bake for 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. 1/4 c. thinly sliced green 5. Sprinkle salmon with green onion and sesame seeds. If desired, onion tops garnish with cilantro and lime, and serve with rice and spinach. 2 tbsp toasted white and black sesame seeds 1/2 c. snipped fresh cilantro, for garnish Daily Values: 6% vitamin A; 4% calcium; 10% vitamin C; 6% iron Lime slices, for garnish Nutrition Facts per serving: Calories: 340; Protein: 33g; Carbohydrate: 25g; Hot cooked rice and hot sautéed spinach, for serving Saturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 75mg; Sodium: 1000mg; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugars: 20g; Fat: 11g; Trans fats: 0g

Tropical Fruit Smoothies

ALL you neeD: 2 c. frozen tropical fruit blend 1 large ripe, firm banana, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 c. pomegranate kefir, well-chilled 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

ALL you Do: Blend for 1 minute or until smooth.

RiveRfRont Hilltop 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. Fermented Foods for Mankato, MN Mankato, MN 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Good Gut Health

Tropical Fruit Smoothies

ALL you neeD: 2 c. frozen tropical fruit blend 1 large ripe, firm banana, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 c. pomegranate kefir, well-chilled 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

ALL you Do: Blend for 1 minute or until smooth.

Daily Values: 15% vitamin A; 20% calcium; 160% vitamin C; 4% iron Nutrition Facts per serving: Calories: 230; Protein: 8g; Carbohydrate: 45g ; Saturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 5mg; Sodium: 65mg; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugars: 28g; Fat: 2.5g; Trans fats: 0g Where there’s a helpful smile in your wellness aisle 041761 Good TASTE Lyons Creek Gardens The fruits (and vegetables) of her labor By Annette Perry Naomi “Omie” Pfeiffer of Lyons Creek Gardens in Lake Crystal is an energetic, inspirational woman driven by her faith. She speaks lovingly of her husband Paul, who she says is a man to be admired, the blessing and support of their five grown children, and of their beautiful 2.5 acre garden. She acknowledges how she feels God has blessed them as they endured life’s tough challenges… often through sheer tenaciousness and determination. Omie becomes animated when she describes the fruits and vegetables growing in her garden – especially the heirloom tomatoes. Raspberries, watermelons, beans, English cucumbers, lemon squash are all ripening on the vine, and all naturally grown. “My peppers are amazing!” said Omie. “I’ve got purple, red, green, every color of “Be happy where you’re planted!” the rainbow! My tomatoes, too. Every color of the rainbow, except BLUE!” Omie likened her life to a weedy patch in her garden, saying, “In Lyons Creek Gardens is situated just off the highway at the the weeds there is a beautiful lily. My life is like that weed patch. intersection of Hwy 60 and County Road 112 in Lake Crystal, a short Sometimes you have to look hard to find that lily. Many people can 12 mile drive west from Mankato. only see the weeds… but if you are able to see the lilies then you’ll be able to appreciate them even in the middle of the weeds. Some Omie and her family have had their struggles. When they moved to people say ‘stop and smell the roses,’ I say, ”Look for the lily.” this acreage in the summer of 1979, the land was bare. The home itself had a nice layout, but needed massive work. One day, a goliath Omie’s rule is to keep going, don’t give up, or you’re going to miss piece of plaster fell down on their bed, and had they been sleeping so much. One day after work, she came home to find a burn hole in there, she and Paul could have been killed. It was then and there the carpet where one of the kids had set down an iron. With that, that she decided something must be done! she had to find a way to work out of her home. For 27 years she sold Shaklee health products, often going door-to-door. She set goals, Paul had some major health concerns, and the five children and achieved them. were young. She reached out to the community and her church congregation, and received help in a number of ways, financially as “If you have a huge task, don’t think of the whole, just do a part, well as help with conquering home projects. eventually every little step goes toward the huge goal.” When the children grew older, she worked at Open Door Health Center in Mankato, helping people find medications they could not afford. Now she is gardening full time. “The reason why I have these gardens is because I have to be happy where I am,” said Omie. “Be happy where you’re planted!” Her father and grandmother were avid gardeners, and it was from them that she picked up her skills. She raised her children to snack from their home grown vegetables. Omie never uses chemicals in her garden, and now sends her soil to the International AG Lab in Fairmont for testing. They send her the minerals she needs to grow nutrient-dense foods. “I never have tomato blight or diseases in my garden, and a lot of that is because my soil is good. It’s not cheap!” she chuckled. “It’s called High Brix Gardening and it’s extremely important for the soil. Minerals, not chemicals, are drawn up into the plant to create better tasting, lush produce with a longer shelf life.

34 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Same Great People. Same Great Service. Call Today! 507.388.4895 1671 E. Madison Ave. Mankato, MN 56001 jerrysbodyshop.com

Auto Body Repair Auto Glass Repair & Replacement National Lifetime Limited Warranty Omie has so many varieties in her vegetable and perennial gardens that she created a catalog! View the catalog at lyonscreekgardens.com. There, she discusses the many health benefits of cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. For instance, if you eat orange tomatoes your body will assimilate more lycopene. “Most people look at my colored tomatoes and say, “No, I want a red one, because I want one that tastes good. But every single heirloom tomato is so rich in flavor. The orange Kellogg’s Breakfast and the pink Tiffen Mennonite are my favorites!” Omie put up a hoop house this year, with the efforts of her son Daniel, who also helps with daily operations. The hoop house will extend the 026315 growing season, and the harvest! When you visit, simply ring the bell. No worries, she’ll find you, as she keeps the doorbell in her pocket. RVW Specialized Commercial & Janitorial Services Easy Cucumber Salad No Matter How Small, How Specialized, 4 cucumbers, thinly sliced From Hospitals to Coal Mines. 1 small white onion, thinly sliced 1 cup white vinegar We are Here for You. 1/2 cup water 3/4 cup white sugar Serving Southern MinneSota 1 tablespoon dried dill, or to taste. SERvICES InCLUDE Toss together the cucumbers and onion in a large bowl. Combine • Carpet cleaning the vinegar, water and sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat. • Windows Bring to a boil, and pour over the cucumber and onions. Stir in dill, • Sanitize, germicidal, eliminate cover, and refrigerate until cold. infectious germs • Our service is consistent day after day • Service one day per week or 24/7 Easy Tomato Avocado Salad • Attention to detail and personal service 1 lb tomatoes InDUStRIES SERvED 1 cucumber • General Office • Industrial • Banks 1/2 medium red onion, sliced • Medical Clinics • Retail 2 avocados, diced Established 1979 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 2 Tbsp) COMMERCIAL 1/4 cup (1/2 bunch) cilantro, chopped* (may replace with dill) JAnItORIAL SERvICE 1 tsp sea salt or 3/4 tsp table salt 126 South Belmont Dr. Mankato 1/8 tsp black pepper Simply chop and slice all the vegetables, toss with spices and 507-828-7136 seasonings, oil and lemon. bestcommercialcleaning.com 044095

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 35 The Mason Jar for the Love of Minnesota, natur ally

Rebekah Buege was born and raised in Mankato and is the owner of a new boutique in North Mankato offering handmade crafts, clothing, soaps and more. What is the idea behind the boutique? The Mason Jar exists to support local artists. Many of them are working other jobs to support themselves because they don’t earn enough from their craft. Retail is extremely hard on handmade artists because margins are typically very high for the retailer; we don’t believe in that here. How does it work? Local handmade craftspeople can rent space in our shop, the price depends on the size of the space, and they keep all their sales. We believe their hard work and talent should be rewarded and their profits protected. What types of items do you sell? Our shop is a great place to find a thoughtful gift for a wedding or baby shower, graduation, or anniversary. Our artists make things like jewelry, pottery, rugs, home décor, handbags, and accessories. There are everyday items here as well like handmade natural candles, soap, deodorant, lip balm, bug repellent and sunscreen. We even have a line of active wear, Since everything is locally made, it’s also a great place for people from out of town (or out of state) to take home something unique to Mankato. Do you have specific criteria for the items offered? We only sell handmade items and typically items that are one size fits all, just for ease of purchase. Our shop exists to support local artists, so we would never have artist partners who outsource or mass produce. We also try and keep as close to Mankato as possible when considering artists. I grew up here and want to work with people in our community. We could expand our reach in the future, but for sure we are keeping it local to Minnesota. We love Minnesota. Who are some of your artists/crafts people? We have about 16 currently so that’s a lot to name, but our very first inquiry and artist partner was Rebecca Bernard of

36 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 — Since 1970 —

SnuggleBugs Boutique. She makes adorable, and super soft, baby blankets and little hats and bows. If I ever have babies I’m wrapping them in her blankets, they’re the best. I’ve already mentioned It’s Been All About Hoodahatz, my mom, Theresa Buege, is the creator of that brand and product line. I wear Hoodas all the time and can’t get enough of them, they actually stay on my head! We have Gina Phenix, of Phenix Pottery, who makes incredible porcelain pieces; mugs, teapots, Selection, serving dishes, nesting bowls, casserole dishes, colanders, it’s pretty impressive and I gush over them every time she restocks her inventory. Shoppe by Lola has beautiful cloth wallets and hot/cold packs that are available in the cutest patterns. They’re very durable, washable, and going to be your Service new favorite thing in your purse! Also there is Kelsey Cooper, from String Art Creations, she makes the BEST And Minnesota shaped string art with a little heart over Mankato…I’m obsessed with them! Tell us about the Mason Jar Everyday brand products: Our product line is made with all natural, organic ingredients that are easy to read and not going to Low Prices poison you. Created by my sister, Leah Buege, and myself. Leah is a licensed esthetician, which means she knows stuff about skin and what it needs. She makes our soaps, body and nipple balms. I make Choose from the largest the deodorant, sunscreen, and Lippy, which is our favorite thing to put on our lips. It’s nice to know exactly what’s going into what selection of wine, liquor & beer we put on our skin, and I’m so happy when people buy our natural items because I know they’re going to absolutely LOVE it. Our mom, in the New Ulm Area! Theresa, is also part of The Mason Jar brand products, she makes baby bibs that are comfortable, washable, and practical, and is bringing in some aprons soon! Then we have our candle line, which I make in recycled containers. Our scents are all named after places in Mankato, we have; Belgrade in the Fall, Mornings on Washington, Links of the North, and The Minneopa. They’re made with soy flakes, beeswax, and essential oils, which makes them much safer to burn and environmentally friendly than paraffin wax and fragrance oils. 1527 N Broadway Street Your candle containers are donated. Tell us about that. I believe in recycling and reusing as much as possible, everything has New Ulm, MN 56073 a story and deserves a chance to continue being told. I buy mason jars, tea tins, ceramics, tea cups, anything that can withstand a flame 507-354-8778 and hot wax that have been donated to local thrift stores and use those for my candles rather than buying in bulk from China. They turn LocaLLy owned since 1970 out different every time, which adds to the uniqueness of the brand and shop. 039492 I see you have an Etsy page, tell us about that. Our Etsy page is in an experimental stage right now. We only have our Mason Jar products available right now. We may expand into eCommerce offerings for our local artists, selling their products online on their behalf. The main focus of the shop is the local brick and mortar for the foreseeable future, and it’s literally in a brick and mortar house! What items are most popular right now? Our top items are the Hooda head bands, they’re the highest quality headbands I’ve ever seen or worn. The colors are vibrant and the variety of prints appeal to pretty much anyone. The string art is very

popular because everything is very Minnesota themed and people s RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 37 love that. Shoppe by Lola’s large wallets were so popular they sold out on our opening day! Do you have any tips for people wanting to create their own items? I could talk about this for hours, what I’ll say is this; before creating your own items, decide if you’re doing it for fun or doing it to make money. If you’re doing it for fun, do whatever brings you joy; create, experiment, and laugh at your mistakes. Make sure you stop if it ever gets not fun. If you’re doing it to make money, make it your mission to understand who you will market your products to and how much they would be willing to pay for your items. For better or worse, your cost doesn’t matter to the customer. Plans for the future of the Mason Jar? We are excited to soon be bringing in upcycled furniture from West River Interiors. We are committed to supporting local makers, which means we need to reach more people, continue to spread awareness, and possibly expand to a larger location. We plan on eventually offering business services to local makers who want to grow and become profitable selling their handmade items including logo design, social media training, and consulting. Any opportunity that strengthens our local artists or community will be considered by our shop, they will always be our top priority. RVW

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38 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Chef Tracy

Chef Edi Introducing Thyme

Chef-inspired meals; at home. Chef Edi Cucurullo Chef Tracy’s Creations creates the recipes and the team prepares portions for two people. All of the ingredients are pre-measured are all made from scratch and C and included in the meal kit along with step-by-step available for purchase weekly instructions for the entire meal, which is available for in the kitchen’s salad cold case. Chef Tracy’s Omega Salad is one pick-up back by the Chef’s Grill Thursday through of her top sellers. Some of her Sunday each week at Hilltop Hy-Vee. other creations include, Black “This is a great option for customers. Typically people Bean and Roasted Red Pepper would have separate recipes for the entrée and for each Hummus, Turkey Avocado Salad, side dish, but many people struggle to put together Quinoa Patties, Black Bean a cohesive meal where the flavors complement each Burgers, Mocha Bars, and much other and each item is ready at the same time,” said more. Both samples and catering April Graff, Hilltop Hy-Vee registered dietitian. “We have options are available. solved that problem for people and are able to give them delicious recipes that help teach them how to cook and give them the skills and confidence they need to be HIllTop adventurous and try 2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN something new.” 507-625-9070

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stabilizing core muscles, and the more I did, the more empowered I felt! I chose to work on relatively random poses and stretches according to my comfort level rather than going through a series of connected poses, or “vinyasa”. My instructor knew I had some yoga experience, so she coached me a bit when my board passed near hers. She did go through a vinyasa flow with many variations of poses. She even went into a headstand! I find the best fitness classes to be the What’SUP? ones where the instructor demonstrates inspirational material I can work towards in my own journey. Some of the best things about summer furiously paddling in 360 degree patterns, in the Minnesota River valley are all the going nowhere, while the teacher and other SUP yoga took my practice to the next level, amusing things to do on the water, near the students were slipping further ahead of me, because it forced me to use my stabilizing water, or in the water! A good yoga session glancing back sympathetically. “The wind is core muscles more than ever. I couldn’t cheat is a great mood-booster, so I took a Stand certainly making this more challenging…. or I’d fall in, not that falling in wasn’t fun! Up Paddleboarding (SUP) yoga class via try paddling more on the other side!” the The grace and strength of the water was Mankato’s Bent River Outfitter. Hot yoga is instructor offered. Just as I was about to also part of my practice, and it forced me to one of my favorites, and I showed up at my throw in the paddle and swim away, leaving be completely present, because again, you first class donning a wetsuit to help keep me the equipment for someone else to retrieve, don’t just fall out of a pose, you fall in to a nice and toasty. My friend Dan explained to I decided I better calm down and figure this body of water. My “busy” thoughts of the day me how they help keep you warm by using out. My impatience was not going to win! I had to cease for the moment in order for me your own body heat, once the suit has gotten began switching sides with my paddle, just to get out of my head and truly focus. I felt wet. I didn’t have to worry about falling in or as I was told, but due to the wind, I had to more of a connection with my soul and was being cold on the terribly windy day it was. paddle so gently I barely seemed to move reminded there’s something about being out forward at all. Inch by inch, or so it seemed, on the water that makes my spirit sing. I felt The instructor first showed us how to pull I made it over to join the others, where I was revived, stretched and ourselves onto the board and stay balanced happily greeted. After that, the wind seemed strengthened! while paddling. We then headed out, and RVW to die down, and I could focus on the yoga it seemed simple enough. My first instinct piece. Annette Perry was to use brute force to beat the wind. Aerial fitness & That proved to be a fruitless effort, because The Bent River staff and instructor all agreed dance enthusiast instead of propelling myself forward, the SUP yoga is similar to when one first tries Mankato nose of my board kept going in circles. I yoga: wobbly! In order to beat the wobbles, was Stand Up Circle Boarding! There I was, I placed extra focus on engaging my

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 43 SPACES A Room of One’s Own

Mary Gulden Groebner‘s creative journey began in 1992 after the deaths of her parents in close succession as a way of coping with her grief. Learning a new skill, according to Mary, with so much color and pattern possibilities helped her get outside of herself. She describes her creative space as her place of bliss.

Why did you want your own personal creative space? When we built our present home in 2003, I had been sewing for 39 years and never had a space that combined good lighting and a door I could close to separate my space from general family space. I had had one or the other but not both together. Also, I had added artistic fabric work to my practical sewing a couple of years before and I felt this was my opportunity to design my own creative space. I wanted to be able to surround myself with glorious light, decorate with loved objects and have a room totally dedicated to my work. My desire for my own creative space went hand in hand with my having the courage to call myself an artist. What is it mainly used for? My work. Storage of my textiles and embellishments. Many objects given to me, made for me, collected by me that have significance to me. Are you the only one who uses it or do other family members join in? I am the primary user and no one is allowed in my studio without my permission. But I’ve invited my family and especially my grandchildren to join me so their creativity can blossom. Some put pretty pins and beads into interesting arrangements. Some design small wall hangings of their own. Some make fabric sculptures with needle, thread, beads and fabric. Some have designed doll quilts and pillow covers and sewn them themselves. Some just like to be with me in this space and look at bead and buttons and fabrics together. I LOVE it! What prompted you to do quilts and wall-hangings? Quilts and wall-hangings give me the opportunity to play with color and form. I love that. What inspires you in your creative process? Everything! Inspiration surrounds us all! I’ll read a story, a poem or a phrase or hear music or see colors in a pattern that sparks my interest and it sits in my heart/mind and I start imagining or sketch ideas to bring it to life in my own way. “Insist on yourself, never imitate.” Ralph Waldo Emerson “However, we all rise to greater heights on the backs of others that have come before.” Mary Gulden Groebner. Do you have a favorite piece you’ve done? That’s a difficult question to answer. But having said that, I love

Photos: Leaf piece w/ dream catcher. “Synergy” ...an art piece that evokes the connection for good and bad, between nature and humanity. Three dresses of the past. The middle one was worn by Mary as a toddler. 44 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 “Insist on yourself, never imitate.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Synchronicity. I wish I had it yet but it was donated to a benefit. Synergy CANU Juried Art Show in New Ulm in 2005. It won first place in the two is awesome and Pneuma and Asian Spring are so feminine. Viriditas dimensional category. rocks. Actually most of my artwork is very feminine based. I identify with Do you have a favorite type of art to look at/Favorite artist? all of it. I am partial to impressionism. Have you, or do you, sell your work? Do you listen to music while you create? If so, what do you listen to? I have sold a few pieces but have given or donated far more. Yes, I do listen to music. For most of my life until I retired around 2000, I drafted a quilt block and called it Stella’s Stairway and dedicated it to I was a vocalist. I sang Maria’s part in West Side Story. I sang to my my mother Stella (Klinkhammer) Gulden. I then published a pattern for a husband at our wedding. I sang solo and duets at weddings, was in many quilt called Garden of Memories. I sold this pattern in local fabric stores choral groups, large and small. Singing was my major creative outlet. So in 2003-2004. I could possibly sell this pattern again. music is central to my being. I have listened to the music of Hildegard of Bingen, Holst’s The Planets, Disney princess movie music, the music of Are any on display anywhere? Doctor Who, Native American music, music of many cultures. Currently: Do you have plans in the works for future projects? “Joyful! Joyful!” hangs in the lobby of the New Ulm Medical Center by the I am designing and creating the final two wall hangings for the two hospital entrance. youngest of our 8 grandchildren. “Spirit” hangs in Leifeld Hall of the Six of them already have their wall Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New hangings on their walls. Ulm. A number of years ago, I began a In the past: series entitled, “The Face of Woman.” I’ve only completed one in that series I had my own art show at the but have plans for at least two more. Keisling Haus where 15 of my art pieces were on display for three I would very much like to have

weeks. another art show at The Grand in s Three art pieces were hung in prime places in the Women Artists This quilt block, “Baby Love” is for of Brown County art show held in exclusive use in the personalized Waseca. wall hangings Mary make for her grandchildren. The center square is I entered “Pneuma” in the BCHS/ symbolic of family generations and the child.

Mary’s work table. To the left is her self-published quilt pattern featuring Mary Guldan Groebner is shown with the beginning of an art piece the block “Stella’s Stairway” dedicated to her mother. for a grandchild.

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 45 “Ngaady A Mwaash: Faces of Chefs hats and aprons Mary “Synchronicity” was auctioned at a Mary’s first original design. The Woman I” is the first in a series made for two grandchildren. benefit several years ago. center wolf head is made from 2 focusing on the masks women They selected the apron fabrics. inch squares taking a month to have worn in different cultures. place them all to her satisfaction.

New Ulm. I would need to build up my portfolio by quite a bit to be able to have another show. I’d love to though! Any new creative endeavors you would like to try but have not yet done so? I would like to put even more dimensionality into my work. I like my work to reach out to meet the viewer. I would like to use different ways to hang my work other than stretcher frames and dowels. I’d like to learn new techniques of fabric manipulation. I’ve painted my own fabric and would like to do more of that. Have you always enjoyed creating things? Yes! Yes! And yes! RVW

Mary’s amazing Bernina sewing machine and other cherished items.

One of eight treasure boxes designed and constructed for her grandchildren from very stiff to light weight interfacings, muslin, printed fabrics, yarns, A picture of Mary’s mom, Stella Klinkhammer Gulden who was very threads, and many embellishments. Each box is personalized according to influential in her love of textiles. the child’s color and subject choices. 46 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Mary’s homemade pressing table has wood underneath from a sewing table originally made by her dad. To the right is her design wall where she previews fabric placement, and work table where she cuts the fabrics, sews, press and quilt large pieces.

048107

“Spirit” was purchased after it was viewed at Mary’s CANU art show at the Kiesling Haus in New Ulm. It hangs in the community room of a New Ulm church.

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 47 Is your bored pooch sitting at home alone while you are away at work? Why not drop them off at The Paw? We will keep them busy and feeling special in doggie daycare! Allowing your dog to socialize with other dogs is one of the greatest gifts you can give your pet. • Good for learning social skills and getting valuable exercise. • Socialization helps build confidence in your pet. • Playtime helps relieve boredom and anxiety. • Webcams allow you to check up on your pet while you’re away. • Large indoor and outdoor play areas allow dogs to stretch their legs and play. • Indoor pool time fun during hot days helps them cool off. Let us help you enhance your relationship with your pet by meeting their mental and physical needs at daycare. The PAW Daycare program will allow you to come home and relax with *Please Call for a more peaceful pooch! Rules & Requirements*

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48 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Be Well

Breast reconstruction following breast cancer: Options and recovery

One in nine women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lives. For the vast majority, this is difficult, frightening and overwhelming. In addition to digesting the information about cancer, there’s the option for breast reconstruction to consider. What is breast reconstruction? Breast reconstruction is a series of optional procedures designed to For implant-based, subsequent surgeries include exchanging the restore the appearance of natural breasts following mastectomy (the expander for a permanent implant and contouring with fat grafting surgical removal of breast tissue). Options include: (liposuctioning fat from the abdomen or thighs and injecting it into the breasts). Many surgeons wait three months or longer between n No reconstruction each of the procedures. n Mastectomy with immediate reconstruction These subsequent procedures are done after the breast cancer n Mastectomy with delayed reconstruction therapy (radiation, chemotherapy) is completed. Reconstruction involves, at minimum, one surgery, but often two to What about nipple reconstruction? five surgeries. Nipple reconstruction, like breast reconstruction, is completely optional. Procedures include: What are the differences in reconstructive options? Immediate reconstruction occurs in conjunction with the n Surgical nipple reconstruction mastectomy. It can be done with either your own tissue (autologous) n Nipple and areolar tattooing or with implants. Usually, a general surgeon performs the mastectomy and a plastic surgeon performs the reconstruction. In n Combination surgical nipple reconstruction and tattooing implant-based reconstruction, a tissue expander will be placed under the skin where the breast tissue had been. The tissue expander is an Surgical nipple reconstruction consists of taking skin from the implant that has a port within it so that it can be injected with saline front of the breast and rearranging it to resembles a nipple. This after surgery in order to restore your pre-operative breast size. After doesn’t recreate the coloration of the nipple and areola. Coloration healing, a second surgery is required to replace the expander with a may be done with tattooing, with or without the surgical nipple permanent implant. reconstruction. Tattooing is done with medical-grade ink and requires touch-ups every five to 10 years. Nipple reconstruction In autologous reconstruction, your own tissue is moved from one and tattooing is submitted to insurance, just like all aspects of the area of the body (donor site) to the breast. The donor site is often the reconstructive process. abdomen, but can also come from the back or other areas. What is involved in long-term follow up? Mastectomy with delayed reconstruction is another option. The The breast reconstruction process can vary from approximately six delayed reconstruction techniques are the same as for immediate months to one-and-a-half years. This includes initial reconstruction reconstruction, but they may require a longer timetable for processes through nipple reconstruction and tattooing. After, you should like tissue expansion to accommodate an implant. receive yearly checkups. If the reconstruction is silicone- implant-based, MRIs of the breasts every two to three years are If I have reconstruction, what is the recovery like? recommended to assure the implants are intact. Both silicone and It depends. Autologous reconstruction is a more difficult surgery, saline breast implants may require replacement in 10-15 years. lasting many hours. The hospital stay is several days, as relocating tissue from one area to another requires close surveillance. The Breast reconstruction is an option that can help you feel whole again following weeks include assuring the blood flow to the newly after the arduous experience of breast cancer. Every surgeon has relocated tissue is adequate, removing postoperative drains and her or his own set of recommendations and areas of expertise, so assessing healing. Recovery time is four to six weeks, with the limiting asking your surgeon these questions — and more factor generally being the donor site healing. — can help you make the difficult decisions that accompany overcoming breast cancer. The hospital stay following implant-based reconstruction is generally RVW one day. The next few weeks include assessing healing, expanding the tissue expander and removing drains. Women often return to Elizabeth Sateren Zoller their daily activities relatively quickly. plastic and reconstructive surgery physician assistant For both procedures, a series of surgeries can be required. For Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato autologous, further procedures address issues with shape and or size.

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 49 Helping Seniors Relocate! C mplete Relocation

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Beauty ServiceS: (Provided in-studio and on-location) River Valley Woman deliversHairstyling maximum (no cuts/colors), airbrush makeup & hair value for advertising dollarsextensions by effectively by appt. only. reaching the targeted 326market. S. Minnesota Ave. ReadeRship: RVWdelivers averages 2.5 readers per copy, or based on 9,192 audited Suite 2E St. Peter, MN 56082 1 gross distribution per month, yields 22,980 readers038497 monthly. puRchasing Response: 62.9% of those surveyedpamelahernandezbeauty.com said they frequently purchase products or507.327.6312 services 2 from ads seen in River Valley Woman. Retention: When asked, 67% said they keep RVW three weeks or longer before discarding it. This affords 3 advertisers multiple opportunities for repeat impressions from a single advertisement. the survey also indicated that RVW reader demographics exceed average market demographics in every desirable category

*Circulation Verification Council (CVC) is an independent, third-party reporting audit company. St. Louis based CVC audits thousands of editions nationwide with a combined circulation of more than 55 million. Audits cover printing, distribution, circulation, websites, digital editions, mobile, email, social media and readership studies to give an accurate picture of a publication’s reach and market penetration. (http://www.cvcaudit.com) The Circulation Verification Council estimates that all the information in this survey has a maximum error margin of +/3.5% at the 95% confidence level. A minimum of 250 completed interviews, or 2.5% of net circulation for publications under 10,000 net circulation is required with no more than one interview per household. To view the CVC audit in its entirety go to the River Valley Woman website at http://www.rivervalleywoman.com. 018825a Photo by VanessaLyn Photography and Design.

In the early morning hours of February 3, 2016 many of the buildings in Madelia’s downtown business district were destroyed or damaged by a fire that consumed most of a city block. The fire broke out at about 2:30 a.m. and continued for more than nine hours. By noon, firefighters had showered hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to extinguish the flames. Seven of the buildings on the north side of Main Street were destroyed and nine businesses were displaced.

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PA-C offer to individuals who have disabilities. Primary Health Services Including: Thrift Shoppe Sales: WayS you caN HElp: Monday = 50% OFF Misc.  Comprehensive health care for individuals and families • Donate time through Tuesday = 50% OFF Adult Clothing volunteering Wednesday = 25% OFF Housewares  Acute illness and minor injury care • Donate household and/or Thursday = 25% OFF for Seniors (55 & over)  Chronic disease and medication management clothing items Friday = 50% OFF Adult Clothing • Donate cash  Prenatal care, immunizations, well child care, sports • Donate via bequest or Thrift Shoppe Hours: Mon: 10 - 4; Tues: estate planning physicals, adult physicals and preventive care 10 - 6; Wed: 10 - 4; Thurs: 10 - 4; Fri: 10 - 6; • 2016, Again accepting (Saturday, 9 - 1 on June 4 & 18; STARTING  Medical/surgical care, radiology, urgent care, swing your donated books for July 2016, OPEN 9 - 1 the 2nd & 4th Saturday resale. bed, physical therapy, lab, home care and more! each month). Check Website. 121 Drew Ave. SE, Madelia, MN www.mchospital.org 6 East Main, Madelia, MN 56062

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52 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Madelia’s future

The loss of nine businesses and 35 employees in Madelia would equate to 200 businesses and up to 1,400 workers in Mankato. The businesses affected offer a combined 106 years of service and account for $3 million of annual sales volume to the Madelia economy. River Valley Woman encourages readers to support Madelia by visiting the community and its businesses Old Main Street and organizations, as well as making a contribution to its rebuilding efforts. According to Dale Williams, Representative of Madelia “The outpouring of support since the fire has been Strong Inc., most of the businesses that were destroyed overwhelming,” said Williams. “More than $450,000 of have committed to rebuild on Main Street. The rubble has donations has been received to date. The funds collected been removed from the site and construction has begun. are being used to rebuild and provide assistance to the The businesses that are rebuilding have re-opened in victims of the fire.” temporary locations. La Plaza Fiesta will be serving food at the Madelia Golf Course clubhouse until their new The total losses sustained by the property and business restaurant opens. owners have yet to be determined, but will exceed the insurance coverage and donations received to date. Madelia Strong, Inc. was formed as a non-profit corporation to administer assistance to those directly If you would like to help Madelia rebuild, you can make a tax affected by the fire. Madelia Strong, Inc. is organized as a deductible contribution to Madelia Strong, Inc. Please mail public charity and is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of your contributions to Madelia Strong, PO Box 100, Madelia, the Internal Revenue Code. MN 56062.

July 8 - 10 • Park Days Celebration We invite you to join us! July 9 • Blues Festival & Rivers Edge July 7th - July 10th - Park Days Celebration - Blues Festival & Rivers Edge Art & More Fair Art & More Fair July 8th - July 10th Park Days Celebration WeJuly invite 14th - July you 17th -to Watonwan join us! County Fair July 9thWe Blues invite Festival &you Rivers to Edge join Art & us! More Fair July 14-17 • Watonwan County Fair We invite you to join us! July 7th - JulyAugust 10th - Park 13th Days - Madelia Celebration Area - Blues Chamber Festival Golf& Rivers Scramble Edge Art & & BallMore Drop Fair July 8th - July 10th Park Days Celebration July 7th - July 10th - Park Days Celebration - Blues Festival & Rivers Edge Art & More Fair JulySeptember 14th - July 17th 17th - Watonwan- Younger County Brothers Fair CaptureJuly 14th - July 17th Watonwan County Fair August 13 • Madelia Area Chamber July 8th - July 10th Park Days Celebration July 7thJuly - July 9thWe 10thBlues invite - Festival Park Days &you Rivers Celebration to Edge join Art - Blues & us! More Festival Fair & Rivers Edge Art & More Fair July 14th - July 17th - Watonwan County Fair August 13th - MadeliaOctober Area Chamber 1st - Golf Pheasant AugustScramble Phest & Ball Drop13th Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball Drop Golf Scramble & Ball Drop July 9thWe Blues invite Festival &you Rivers to Edge join Art & us! MoreSeptember Fair 17th - Younger Brothers CaptureJuly 14th - July 17th Watonwan County Fair August 13th - Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball Drop NovemberJuly 18th 7th& 19th - July - Razzle 10th Dazzle - Park Days JulyCelebration 14th -- BluesJuly Festival17th - &Watonwan Rivers Edge ArtCounty & More Fair Fair September 17th - Younger Brothers CaptureJuly 14th - July 17th Watonwan County FairOctober 1st - PheasantAugust PhestSeptember 13th Madelia 17th Area 140thChamber Anniversary Golf Scramble Younger & Ball Drop Brothers Capture September 17 • 140th Anniversary July 7th - July 10th - Park Days Celebration - Blues Festival & Rivers Edge Art & More Fair July 14th - July 17th - Watonwan County Fair November 18th & 19th - Razzle Dazzle August 13th - Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball Drop October 1st - PheasantAugust Phest 13th Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball DropSeptember 17th 140th AnniversaryOctober Younger8th Pheasant Brothers CapturePhest Younger Brothers Capture November 18th & 19th - Razzle Dazzle July 14th - July 17th - Watonwan County Fair August 13th - Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball Drop September 17th 140th Anniversary Younger Brothers Capture OctoberSeptember 8th Pheasant 17th - PhestYounger Brothers Capture August 13th - Madelia Area ChamberWe Golfinvite Scramble & you Ball Drop to join us!NovemberSeptember 17th 18th - Younger - NovemberBrothers Capture 19th Razzle Dazzle October 8 • Pheasant Phest November 18th - November 19th Razzle Dazzle October 8th Pheasant Phest October 1st - Pheasant Phest JulySeptember 7th - July 17th 10th - Younger - Park BrothersDays Celebration Capture - Blues Festival & Rivers127 West Edge mainOctoberArt & street More 1st - Pheasant Fair (PO BOX Phest 171) madelia, mn 56062 • 507-642-8822 • 888-941-7283 November 18-19 • Razzle Dazzle November 18th - November 19th Razzle Dazzle 127 West main street (PO BOX 171) madelia, mn 56062 • 507-642-8822 • 888-941-7283 OfficeJuly Hours: 8th Monday-Thursday - July 8:0010th am-5:00 Parkpm & Friday Days 8:00 am-N Celebrationoon • [email protected] October 1st - Pheasant Phest Office Hours: Monday-ThursdayNovemberNovember 18th 8:00 &am-5:00 19th pm -18th Razzle & Friday & Dazzle 8:0019th am-N -oon Razzle • [email protected] Dazzle 048082 127 West main street (PO BOX 171)July madelia, 14th - mnJuly 56062 17th • 507-642-8822 - Watonwan • 888-941-7283 County Fair Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau - 127 WEST MAIN STREET (PO BOX 171) MADELIA, MN 56062 Office Hours: Monday-ThursdayNovember 18th Madelia8:00 &am-5:00 19th Area pm- Chamber Razzle & Friday Dazzleof 8:00 Commerce am-N oon •& [email protected] Visitors Bureau - 127July WEST MAIN9th WeSTREET Blues (PO BOX invite 171) Festival MADELIA, MN 56062&you Rivers to Edge join Art & us! More Fair August 13th - Madelia Area Chamber507-642- 8822Golf / 888 Scramble-941-7283 & Ball Drop RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau - 127 WEST MAIN STREET (PO BOX 171) MADELIA, MN 56062 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 53 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 SeptemberOffice Hours17th: Monday - JulyYounger - Thursday7th Brothers - July8:00am Capture 10th - 5:00pmJuly - & Park Friday14th 8:00am Days - -July NoonCelebration 17th Watonwan- Blues Festival County & Rivers Fair Edge Art & More Fair Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon October 1st - PheasantAugust Phest 13th Madelia Area Chamber Golf Scramble & Ball Drop November 18th & 19th - Razzle Dazzle July 14th - July 17th - Watonwan County Fair September 17th 140th Anniversary Younger Brothers Capture Madelia Area ChamberAugust of Commerce 13th & Visitors - Madelia Bureau - 127 WESTArea MAIN Chamber STREET (PO BOX Golf 171) Scramble MADELIA, MN 56062& Ball Drop October 8th Pheasant Phest 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau - 127 WEST MAIN STREETMadelia (PO BOX Area 171) ChamberMADELIA,November MNof Commerce 56062September 18th & Visitors -17th BureauNovember - Younger - 127 WEST BrothersMAIN19th STREETRazzle Capture (PO BOX Dazzle171) MADELIA, MN 56062 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon October507-642- 88221st -/ 888Pheasant-941-7283 Phest Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon127 West main street (PO BOX 171) madelia, mn 56062 • 507-642-8822 • 888-941-7283 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon Office Hours: Monday-ThursdayNovember 18th 8:00 &am-5:00 19th pm- Razzle & Friday Dazzle 8:00 am-N oon • [email protected] Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau - 127 WEST MAIN STREET (PO BOX 171) MADELIA, MN 56062 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon

Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau - 127 WEST MAIN STREET (PO BOX 171) MADELIA, MN 56062 507-642-8822 / 888-941-7283 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm & Friday 8:00am - Noon Help your skin survive summer by giving it the protection it needs

Our skin protects us from injuries, bacteria and disease, so shouldn’t we It’s also recommended donning a pair of UV protective sunglasses to do the same for it? One in five Americans will develop some form of skin protect the eyes and prevent squinting (for fewer wrinkles)! cancer in their lifetime, which is why one of the best things we can do for So, just what happens if you don’t protect your skin over the course of our largest organ is to know how to care for it. your lifetime? Over time, the sun’s UV light damages the fibers in the skin The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can wreak havoc on unprotected skin, called elastin and collagen. When these fibers break down, skin begins to which can lead to harmful effects of sun exposure. The fall, winter and stretch, sag, wrinkle and bruise or tear more easily. UV exposure can also spring seasons account for just 20 percent of UV exposure, leaving the cause mutations in skin cells that lead to brown spots and skin cancer. bulk of sun damage occurring over the summer months. Take protective steps today to ensure healthy The best way to avoid trouble is to block UV rays when you’re out during skin for years to come. Your body will thank the day. It’s just as important to protect yourself during cloudy days, too, you for it! RVW as the sun’s rays can penetrate through fog, mist and light clouds. Dr. Anne Neeley To get the best protection, grab a bottle of sunscreen containing a Dermatology mineral such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide the best Mankato Clinic defenses against sunburn and skin cancer. Be sure to apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before you head outside. A good rule of thumb is to put on enough lotion that it takes a full minute to rub in. If you’re headed to the beach or going swimming, spread at least one ounce (about one shot-glass full) on your face and body. A sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 should be reapplied every two hours. Remember that sunscreen needs to be reapplied after being in water or sweating. To further protect yourself from sun damage, do your best to stay away from the sun in the middle of day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you’re out and about, block the sun with protective clothing and seek shade whenever possible. There are many companies that now make swim shirts, wraps and hats that promise a UV Protection Factor (UPF) of SPF 50 or higher.

newborns

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046249 1109 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN www.littlerascalstudio.com

54 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 What Next? Get Creative! We live in an increasingly unhappy, intolerant, and violent country. And society is set up to support the existing power structures, Our populace is plagued by depression and anxiety; more so than any not challenge the status quo. Creativity, by its very nature, is not other. Our current political situation has us wracked with uncertainty manageable. Just ask an artist! and distrust; not only in our leaders, but our family, friends and W Steve Jobs once said: “When you ask creative people how they did neighbors. Given the present-day cultural milieu, I find there is but one something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just place I can turn and still find hope for humanity. saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That’s because Art. they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things. Creativity is just connecting things.” The creative arts in every format, for time immemorial, have been the great unifier. At defining moments in the history of our world, you will I can already hear the cacophony of left-brained folks lamenting, not find a great policy or a well-written bill in Congress that touched on “I’m not like that. I’ve never been the creative type; I failed art class.” the hearts of the masses in just such a way that it became the catalyst I hear you. The image of “the tortured artist” painting on canvas or for sweeping change. However, I can almost guarantee that you will composing a symphony can be intimidating or downright unattractive. find an iconic photograph, a classic poem, a moving speech delivered But that’s not creativity. In fact, I would argue that the creative process by a gifted orator, or a “Give Peace a Chance.” can be a quite logical piecing together of both inspiration, and also, what just makes sense! If an artist doesn’t bother to ask whether what And then, a little while later, they passed a bill, signed a peace accord, they’ve created is clearly communicating something to their audience, tore down a wall, etc., etc. their art is at best, convoluted (and at worst, just plain bad). The creative arts saturate moments in time with an almost magical Creativity is simply connecting ideas and people. I promise that you energy, inspiring humans to transcend the limited ideas of the accountants, lawyers, and human resources professionals out there, current paradigm. Art breaks down old, tired barriers and demolishes you are artists, in one way or another. The only reason people don’t egotistical habits - bringing the unlikeliest of people together in a spirit bother to think of themselves as creative is quite honestly, because we of compromise and love. define our identity by what makes us a buck. The dominant economic Ironically, despite the power that art harnesses, it is undervalued in value of our time is per capita income, not per capita happiness. If it both education and commerce. This shouldn’t be surprising though. were the latter, we’d have a helluva lot more art. The after effects of the Schools were designed to produce good workers, not deep thinkers. industrial revolution have given rise to a goal-oriented, task-oriented, individualistic culture. The creative arts are exactly the opposite: a relationship-oriented, community-oriented, sharing of what moves us. And right now, as a country, we need to be moved. Badly. So please, I’m begging you, create stuff! Day dream, scrap book, quilt, paint on canvas, paint your face! Knit, cook, take your gardening gloves off and get dirt under your nails, smash the dirt around between your hands, add water to the dirt, now you’ve created mud! See, I told you that you could create! Pick up a writing utensil and write something down. Write anything down. On paper! Even if it’s just a doodle on a post-it note, purge all the feelings in your body onto that post-it in an epic unfolding of the creative process! Simply be intentional in deciding that whatever activity you’re engaged in, is your art. Allow your brain to enjoy the satisfaction of bringing something forth into the world. You need to do it. The world needs you to do it. The less we allow ourselves to feel both the beautiful and the tragic, the more we kill our creative potential. When we put our nose down and stomp through the daily grind mindlessly, we numb ourselves to the world and the people we share it with. And if we’re numb, it becomes all too easy to separate ourselves from others; to think them peculiar, or less important. Creativity is not just the work of hobbyists or people with the luxury of time to spend creating. Engaging in the creative process allows us to see possibilities in unexpected places where others do not. What could be more important than challenging our minds to recognize possibility?

Make America create again. RVW by Lori Mathiowetz Riverbend Spiritual Care

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 55 River Valley Creators! McKnight Foundation awards grants to local artists Twenty-eight artists received K ateland” series about cake decorating; high quality prints. She will purchase and plans to have an exhibit. photography lights, a tripod, and a light a PLRAC/McKnight Artist meter, and pay studio rent while she learns Rachel James, Mankato. to use the new equipment. She plans to Career Development Grant R achel will write, illustrate, and print a mini sell high quality prints at area gallery gift comic book. She will purchase the Adobe of $1,000 each. The purpose shops and have an exhibit. of the grant is to provide Creative Suite design software to create the book and plans to have an exhibit. Six Fellowships of $3,000 financial support to artists She will also conduct a workshop about committed to advancing creating mini books. each were awarded to the their work and careers. Julie Johnson-Fahrforth, Mankato. following: Julie is a painter and will create a new Ann Judkins, North Mankato. Women artists in River body of work featuring vignettes of local Ann will focus on photography and her Valley Woman’s readership architecture. She will purchase paint, fellowship will be used to have 40 images canvases, and other supplies; and plans to area include the following: printed on aluminum and 30 soft cover have an exhibit. books which are a catalog of photos Lisa Bierer, Mankato. Melinda Kjarum, North Mankato. featuring the Pioneer Power swap meet Lisa is an acrylic painter and will use the Melinda is a fiber artist and will attend a in rural LeSueur. These new pieces will be funds to attend an abstract painting workshop. She will create new fiber pieces shown at an exhibition at the Carnegie Art workshop and complete a body of new with fleece from her own sheep and plans Center, Mankato December 2016. work to exhibit. on having an exhibit and conducting Lois Peterson, St. Peter. Carolyn Borgen, New Ulm. a workshop about dyeing with natural Lois is a mixed media artist and her Carolyn will continue her education as pigments. fellowship will be used to purchase a string bass instructor by attending a Virginia LaFrance, St. Peter. art supplies to create and frame new training workshop; and plans to perform Virginia will purchase a press and supplies drawings and pay to transport large public concerts with area orchestras. to create mixed media prints; and plans to pieces of art work to and from exhibitions as well as have the work professionally Megan Flod Johnson, St. Peter. have an exhibit. documented. These new pieces will be Megan will use funds to research and Macey Page, Mankato. shown at art exhibitions at the Carnegie develop a new piece of theatre for very Macey will create a series of large scale Art Center, Mankato in the fall of 2016 young youth, ages 5 and under, using watercolor and oil paintings. She will and at the Hillstrom Museum of Art at a combination of striking performance purchase a quality printer and Photoshop Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter in visuals and interactive engagement software to print reference photos, print 2018. between performers and children. A work to sell, and experiment with mixed performance workshop will be held. media techniques; and plans to have an Amy Sinning, Mankato. Amy is a fashion/installation artist and her Marilyn Frank, North Mankato. exhibit. fellowship will be used to purchase special Marilyn will write creative nonfiction Barbara Pearson, Blue Earth. material, dress forms, mannequins, and stories about the Tibetan culture. She Barbara will create a series of watercolor supplies to create gothic Victorian dresses will hire a professional mentor to edit her paintings featuring harvest in rural with special lighting, and pay models at writing and meet with Tibetans. She plans southcentral Minnesota. She will purchase the runway showing. to participate in open mic events and art supplies and frame her paintings; and conduct readings. plans to have an exhibit. Malia Wiley, Lake Crystal. Malia is an oil painter and her fellowship Le Ann Gehring-Ryan, North Mankato. Peggy Tauer, Sleepy Eye. will be used to purchase art supplies, Le Ann will use enamel to add color to her Peggy will create a series of paintings create 15-20 pieces with the theme silver jewelry designs. She will use funds working with transparency, luminosity, “Crochet as Art”. These new pieces will to purchase enamel, fine silver, a kiln, and color. She will purchase supplies, be shown at an art exhibition at the Arts and other supplies; and plans to have an have pieces framed, and attend a local Center of Saint Peter in fall 2016. exhibit. workshop; and plans to have an exhibit. Information courtesy of Prairie Lakes Kaitlin Hohenstein, Mankato. Amanda Wirig, Mankato. Regional Arts Council. K aitlin will print and frame her comic Amanda will document her work to illustrations from her “Welcome to apply for gallery exhibits and produce

56 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Tidy Tightwads Beware of the Summer Clutter Creep

• Was I already looking for this item or did I decide I needed it after I saw it? •Have I checked with my (spouse, daughter, son, grandchild) whom I want to get this for that they want the item? • Am I willing to part with a different item to make room? (One item in, one item out) • Can I borrow this item from a friend instead, especially if I only need it once?

It’s easy for clutter to creep up on you during the summer months. • Have I used the last item I brought home from a garage sale or is it still Garage sales are in full swing. People are tackling home decluttering in the same storage place I put it? projects and offering their treasures on Facebook or putting them out • What is my immediate plan for the item if it doesn’t fit or work? on the curb with a big “free” sign. While it’s tempting to take advantage of all this low cost or free stuff, it’s important not to let clutter creep up Clutter is something that sneaks up on many people. They don’t on you. Otherwise, before you know it, your closets, store room, and intend to gather too much stuff, but it happens garage are messy and full of too much stuff that isn’t serving a purpose. really easily. Asking yourself these questions and having a plan ahead of time will help Here are some good questions to ask yourself before going you avoid collecting too much clutter and shopping and bringing home one more thing. overwhelming yourself and family later. • Do I need it? RVW • Am I getting it only because it’s free or really cheap? by Cindy Haugland tidytightwads.com

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RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 57 Discover your treasure at the many fun and unique shops Treasures. in our Minnesota River Valley communities! You. never. know what you might find... for a special gift, or just because.

Our meat specialists can talk about our amazing grades of beef until the cows come home. We reserve the best of the best for our customers, ensuring that you take home a quality cut loaded with flavor, no matter what you choose from our meat department. Hy-Vee Hilltop 2010 Adams St., Mankato, MN 507.625.9070 Hy-Vee Riverfront Accent your home 410 S. Riverfront Dr., Mankato, MN with colorful recycled glass, extraordinary 507.625.1107 Time to Ride! succulents, and Voluspa candles, diffusers, Bicycle enthusiasts will love this and room sprays. Uttermost Spokes Aged Wall clock. A to Zinnia Floral & Gifts Fun and whimsical bike tire frame and 15 S. Broadway St., layered spoke clock face. Classic arrow New Ulm, MN design with traditional numerals for 507.359.9900 quick and easy readability. Reliable quartz mechanism for accuracy. Makes a great gift, or themed decor piece for home, exercise room or garage. Hayden’s Furniture & Floorcovering 14 East Central, Springfield, MN 56087 507-723-5415

So hot they're cool! Edgy look, yet super soft moto-jeggings are your go-to jeans whatever your mood, whatever your style. Dress them Sizzling Summer Sale up for contemporary glam, or chill Save $30 per Shade* them down for a casual night on the Parasol Cellular Shades provides a natural town. Sizes small to large. Shop online! barrier to the outside elements helping generationsboutiquemn.com to manage your energy costs and look Generations Boutique good doing it. Don't let your uncovered 326 South Minnesota Avenue windows cost you money this summer. Take St. Peter, Minnesota advantage of our $30 rebate per shade. 507.934.7407 Give Blinds & More a call today to schedule Summer Blowout Sale your free consultation. *$30 savings with a Happening July 9-16th. Stop on out mail-in rebate. Expires 9/30/16. for sizzling discounts on area rugs, Blinds & More furniture & home decor. 424 Belgrade Avenue Nordaas Home Furnishings & Decor North Mankato, MN 56003 10091 State Hwy. 22 507-380-5019 Minnesota Lake, MN 56068 800-658-7076 nordaashomes.com

58 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 YETI products are among the best insulated coolers on Summer Ready! the market today. These coolers are right at Ease into spring and summer with this home in a campsite, kayak, canoe, ATV or new patio set. 42" stonegate table with golf cart, and are over-engineered to keep boulder top is accompanied by ice for days. No matter where you carry it Spray on summer! four swivel chairs covered in or how you handle it, Yeti's grizzly proof Versa spa sunless tanning cocoa woven herringbone fabric. construction won’t leak or break. Keep Get that "just got back from the beach" Glowing Hearth & Home everything ice cold with the Monster cooler tan in seconds. Get a fast and easy glow 241 St. Andrews Drive, for big game to the can coozie for the cele- that lasts up to a week in our open air, Mankato, MN bration beer afterwards. heated drying system sunless tanning 507-345-8084 DeGrood's Home Store spray booth. Customize the tan that is 220 St. Andrews Drive right for you. Perfect for before vacation, Mankato, MN wedding, or special event. 507-388-9391 Bronz'd shopdegroods.com By InStyle Salon 700 North Minnesota Street Suite A, New Ulm, MN 507-276-6192

Radiant! Cleansing is the essential first step in a healthy skin care ritual. The patented Clarisonic Sonic Cleansing Brush uses a sonic Magnolia Giveaway! frequency of more than 300 movements per We are giving away 4 one-of-a-kind second to deeply cleanse the skin far more Magnolia Home furniture pieces! Stop in effectively, yet more gently, than traditional at our Mankato location to register and see superficial cleansing or simple rotating this timeless and charming collection. brushes. The result is noticeably smoother, We will begin drawing our lucky winners more radiant skin. in July! Best of luck! Skin Essentials, Mankato Clinic Rooms and Rest Suite 400A, Madison East Center Furniture and Mattress 1400 Madison Ave 1760 Madison Ave Mankato, MN, 56001 Mankato, MN 56001 507-625-6599 roomsandrest.com

RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 59 Money Talks Discover what your body needs! by Suze Orman

Photo by Prevent a health problem Broadway Chiropractic Wellness R. Trachtenberg before it becomes a problem. Center has partnered with a nationwide Wholesale Blood Lab Testing Service Are you experiencing the following: to bring you some of the lowest • Mental/emotional symptoms including possible pricing for blood lab testing mood swings? available. In some cases you may pay • Weight gain, fatigue, pain? up to 90% less than you would at your • Cardiovascular health problems? That $30,000 Wedding local medical clinic or other lab testing • Digestive/bowel problems? services for the exact same testing! Really Costs You One of the most scientific ways to identify nutritional imbalances is the All testing is completed by LabCorp, $130,000 Or More have your blood test evaluated. one of the largest laboratory Broadway Chiropractic Wellness Center companies in the United States. offers this service! The average cost of a wedding is now more than $30,000. As I have explained in How to Budget for a Wedding, spending even $3,000 Discount Labs. Get Results in 1-2 Days! on a wedding is a bad move if you have credit card debt, have yet Testing is done by a registered nurse right in our office. to build a large emergency fund, or aren’t on pace with your retirement savings. Broadway But for those of you who are thinking about spending for a blow- ChiropraCtiC out wedding, I want you to seriously think through the long-term cost of your decision. Money you spend today you won’t have wellness Center for tomorrow. Sounds obvious. But I don’t think you’ve carefully 1510 north bbloodroadway nutrition new ulm 507-359-4374 science thought through what that really means. If you spend $30,000 on a 047365 wedding today that is $30,000 you don’t have to put toward other long-term goals. Invest $30,000 for 18 years and earn a 5% annualized return and you could have nearly $75,000. Why 18 years? Well, I’m thinking maybe you and your honey are going to start a family. That $75,000 is going to go a long way to covering a chunk of college costs. (Even after accounting for inflation, annual tuition and fees at a public university for an in-state student might run about $20,000 a year in 18 years.) Or let’s talk about retirement. Maybe you and your honey have READY OR NOT, spent your single years paying off student loans, or perhaps working off some expensive credit card debt from those days HERE LIFE COMES before you got financially on top of things. That’s okay. But please Life insurance can help you live your way Protection when you need it for your growing family. Options to don’t spend big money on a wedding if you haven’t been paying help with financial goals along the way. Flexibility to help power attention to your retirement. The five-figure wedding cost of your retirement. Get life insurance—for the way you live. Contact your local Thrivent today is a potential way to turbo charge your retirement fund into Financial representative or visit Thrivent.com/readyornot today. six-figures. Investing the $30,000 for retirement and earning a 5% Redwood Area Group annualized return would leave you with about $165,000 in 35 years. 809 E. Bridge St I can’t stress this enough: A big wedding is a want, not a need. And Redwood Falls, MN 56283 507-637-8139 please don’t tell me you (or your daughter, or son) deserve a big connect.thrivent.com/redwood-area-group wedding. Really? I think they deserve a financially secure future. I This is a solicitation for insurance. A Thrivent Financial representative may think they deserve knowing their parents are not short-changing contact you. their own future to pay for an expensive wedding. Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Thrivent Financial representatives are licensed You can still have a fantastic, wonderful, meaningful and joyous insurance agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important wedding. All that takes is creativity and focusing on what really information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. matters. Spending money you don’t have for a party you can’t Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota • Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 29166G N4-16 afford doesn’t sound like a joyous act to me. RVW 047363

60 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 “iT’S THe BiggeST TickeT of THe SeASon!” Alpha Media is giving away a pair of 2016 Viking SeASon TickeTS & a Hot Tub from Tailgate parties on Tuesdays & Thursdays beginning June 7. Due to popular demand, BARgo will be played at all tailgate parties. Multiple ways to qualify to win including scratch-offs with qualifying purchase of Miller Lite at participating liquor stores.

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045368 Smooth the Ride for Dogs with Motion Sickness

Because the symptoms of canine motion sickness can mimic several If you determine that your pet is indeed suffering from motion other problems, many pet owners may not realize their dogs suffer sickness, you can take several steps to make your next trip together from this condition. more comfortable: However, a recent study conducted on behalf of Zoetis found that In addition to providing the basic necessities like food, water, bowls, up to 23 percent of dogs experience motion sickness. The study also grooming supplies and medications, create a soothing environment found that some pet owners feel that motion sickness weakens their with a favorite blanket, bed and toys, along with an appropriate relationship with their dog because it often forces them to leave restraint device, travel crate or carrier. their dog at home. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding Talk with your veterinarian about a medication that has proven to treatment options can help ease your dog’s discomfort and ensure a be helpful in treating motion sickness in dogs. CERENIA® (maropitant smoother ride for the entire family. citrate) is the only FDA-approved medication for the prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness in dogs. A CERENIA tablet can be easily administered two hours before the car ride and doesn’t cause drowsiness, so you don’t have to worry about a sleepy pup after the car ride. All other motion sickness medications are formulated for humans and are not approved by the FDA for use in dogs. Human medications may also be more difficult to dose for dogs, may not effectively control motion sickness and/or may have unwanted side effects, such as drowsiness. Make frequent stops, especially if traveling long distances, so your dog can relieve itself, drink water and exercise. Maintain your dog’s regular feeding and exercise schedule as much as possible during your trip to reduce any anxiety it may feel about being away from home. Carry your leash and collar with up-to-date ID tags (with your cell phone number), microchip information and rabies tags. Also carry proof of vaccinations and consider scanning your dog’s medical records onto a USB device in case you end up visiting an emergency veterinary clinic away from home. Find more resources for traveling with a dog that has motion Motion sickness may at times be difficult to recognize, but it is a sickness at cerenia.com. real medical condition that affects the centers of the brain that control balance and motion. This condition may also be exhibited Important Safety Information as fear and anxiety about car rides. Dogs suffering from motion Use CERENIA Tablets for acute vomiting in dogs 2 months and older, sickness may show a variety of signs, including drooling, dry and for prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness in dogs 4 heaving, excessive lip licking, excessive panting, inactivity, pacing, months and older. Safe use has not been evaluated in cats and dogs restlessness, shaking, vomiting, whining or yawning. with gastrointestinal obstruction, or those that have ingested toxins. However, especially during warmer months, some of these signs, Use with caution in dogs with hepatic dysfunction. In people, topical such as excessive panting and whining, can mistakenly be attributed exposure may elicit localized allergic skin reactions, and repeated to other things, such as overheating. That’s why it is important to or prolonged exposure may lead to skin sensitization. See full pay close attention to the onset of signs that could indicate motion prescribing information at cerenia.com. RVW sickness and note any correlations with travel, including anxiety or All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related avoidance behavior like resistance to getting in the car. Sharing this company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. ©2016 Zoetis Services information with your veterinarian can help isolate the cause. LLC. All rights reserved. CER-00218 Photo courtesy of Getty Images

62 RIVER VALLEY woman | july • 2016 Express Care Now Open

Mayo Clinic Health System Express Care is now open inside the Hilltop Hy-Vee store. This convenient walk-in clinic treats minor medical conditions seven days a week with no appointment necessary.

Services include: • Allergies • Insect bites • Sinus symptoms • Bladder infections • Minor burns • Sore throats • Cold sores • Pregnancy testing • Vaccines • Ear and eye infections • Respiratory illness • Vomiting and diarrhea

Mayo Clinic Health System Express Care 2010 Adams Street, Mankato (inside Hy-Vee grocery store) Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

mayoclinichealthsystem.org/carenow

046219 8”x10.2” River Valley Woman June 2016 KASPER HYBRID MATTRESS + FREE ADJUSTABLE BASE $999 or $1399 King OR FREEADJUSTABLE BASE! 12” COOL GEL MEMORY FOAM *Oer valid on select models only. Some exclusions apply. See store for details + FREE ADJUSTABLE BASE $1299 Queen or $1799 King

Locally Owned and Opated INTERIORS home furnishings

Austin Mankato New Ulm Mankato 1700 17th St NW 1760 Madison Ave 1704 N. State St 482 Raintree Road roomsandrest.com Rooms and Rest interiorsmn.com Interiors Home Furnishings 048104