Taylor Sexton: Life on Center Stage

Center Stage!

Featuring: Fashion Designer Amy Sinning Vikings Cheerleader Evan Buysse Mayberry Riot’s Sierra Day-Krzmarzick TAYLOR P lus! SEXTON SPACES— shines as Cat & Fiddle Ballroom Miss Mankato FREE! RIVERVALLEYWOMAN.COM SEPTEMBER 2017 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 4 Thursday, Oct. 5 5:30–9 p.m. • Courtyard by Marriott, Mankato

Gather your girlfriends and join 5:30–7:30 p.m. Get the evening started with hors d’oeuvres, us for an enjoyable evening to desserts and cash-bar cocktails. Test your luck in our raffle, and give, gab and giggle. We’ll be find a little something for yourself in the silent auction. having fun while raising funds for 7:30–8:30 p.m. Comedian Kristin Andersen-Anderson’s Girls new bassinets to benefit women’s Night Out comedy act will keep you laughing with her hilarious and children’s services at and spot on humor. Mayo Clinic Health System, allowing us to provide the best 8:30–9 p.m. Raffle drawing, silent auction checkout. care for our littlest patients. Tickets are $50 each and should be purchased in advance. Everyone is welcome to attend. A portion of the ticket is tax deductible.

For more information and to purchase tickets Call 507-594-2932 or visit mayoclinichealthsystem.org/ladiesfirst.

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075485 42 32 22 16 contents • Publisher { 2017 } New Century Press { september Chief Operating Officer Jim Hensley 10

General Manager Lisa Miller

Please direct all editorial inquiries Lather, Rinse, Repeat Editor’s Column ...... 8 and suggestions to Editor. Taylor Sexton: Life on Center Stage ...... 10 Managing Editor Eileen Madsen Amy Sinning: In Her Own Fashion ...... 16 [email protected] Vikings Cheerleader Evan Buysse ...... 22 Sales & Marketing Manager Natasha Weis Sierra Day-Krzmarzick: She’s Got the Music in Her ...... 28 507.227.2545 [email protected] SPACES: Living It Up at the Cat & Fiddle ...... 32

Sales Team March of Dimes Chefs Auction ...... 38 Erin Herding Ruth Klossner EATS: Building a Better Sandwich ...... 42 Tami Leuthold Reader Poll: What Was Your First Car? ...... 46 Designer Go. Be. Do. Connect. Calendar of Events ...... 52 Amy Leuthold Thyroid Month: A Survivor’s Story ...... 60 Ad Design Exposure Creative What is Hashimoto’s Disease? ...... 62 Cover Photographer TASTE of the River Valley ads ...... 64 Rhonda Milbrett Photography Suze Orman: How to Bear Rising Auto Insurance Premiums ...... 66 River Valley Woman Magazine New Ulm & Mankato, MN Small Business...It’s All in the Details ...... 68 507.354.6158 Strut Your Stuff Fashion Pages ...... 69 For advertising and editorial contact information and a list of newsstand READS: “Popular: The Power of Likability in a Status-Obsessed World” ...... 78 locations visit rivervalleywoman.com Lori Mathiowetz: What Next? ...... 79

River Valley Woman is published monthly and Connections Business Cards ...... 80 distributed free in the Minnesota River Valley area. The content used in this magazine is copyright 2017 River Valley Woman and may Tidy Tightwads: Not Your Average Back to School Tips ...... 82 not be reprinted in part or in whole without written consent by the publisher. All articles Garden Gal: Fall is for Planting ...... 83 and editorial material represent the opinions GO. of the respective authors. Treasures ...... 84

The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject, or position any advertising. In the event of any error, River Valley Woman will rerun the BE. incorrect part of the ad or cancel charges on the incorrect portion. DO. CONNECT.RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 5 BOLD RACE -In its 2014 list, FlipKey by Trip Advisor rated the Mankato Marathon the top marathon to travel to in Minnesota. EXCE PTIONAL -In 2016, Runner’s Goal recognized the Mankato Marathon as the No. 1 runner’s choice for half marathons in Minnesota. -Our runners say many personal records have PLAC E been set on the half, 10k and 5k courses.

Mankato Marathon: Be Bold Mankato Marathon is the Midwest’s boldest race, SATURDAY, OCT. 21 showcasing a dynamic course and determined racers. This exceptional course features a vast 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sport & Health Expo / Speaker Series / Kidz Zone countryside run at the beginning and culminates in the beautiful yet challenging Mankato river valley.

Sport & Health Expo There’s a race for every runner—a full marathon, -Home base for all pre-marathon action -Visit many exhibitors and get free goodies relay, half marathon, 10K, 5K, KidsK, Toddler Trot SUNDAY, OCT. 22 and Diaper Dash. Now introducing My BOLD Walk as TOP 5 REASONS YOU SHOULD BE PART OF THE 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 10K, Half the only walk in the nation of its kind offering extra Kidz Zone MANKATO MARATHON Relay & Full Marathon races support along the course for individuals that typically -Life-sized games, bounce house, climbing wall Finish Line & Post Race cannot participate in other walks, runs, or races. A host of accompanying weekend activities abound for 1. The Greater Mankato community comes out to support Speaker Series the whole family. The Mankato Marathon is a USATF runners during Mankato Marathon events. -Health, wellness and real-life advice from running experts -Kids activities certified course, making it a Boston Marathon qualifier. 2. The Mankato Marathon is well organized and instills a small- Be bold. Register now for this exceptional race. town, community feel. Kids Races -Toddler Trot & Diaper Dash -Award ceremonies 3. Run. Walk. Volunteer. Cheer. There’s a race or activity for the -KidsK whole family! Register before the Oct. 20 deadline! 4. The Mankato Marathon course is beautiful and bold. Additional Races -Live music Save $5 with this promo code: -My Bold Walk 5. An acclaimed feature, the motivational and medical support -Pork Power 5k RVW17 along the course is fantastic!

075487 Join the community on MANKATOMARATHON.COM Facebook and Twitter now. BOLD RACE -In its 2014 list, FlipKey by Trip Advisor rated the Mankato Marathon the top marathon to travel to in Minnesota. EXCE PTIONAL -In 2016, Runner’s Goal recognized the Mankato Marathon as the No. 1 runner’s choice for half marathons in Minnesota. -Our runners say many personal records have PLAC E been set on the half, 10k and 5k courses.

075487 Join the community on MANKATOMARATHON.COM Facebook and Twitter now. Eileen Madsen Editor Lather, Rinse, Repeat

who is more than happy to Who says you can’t be in the forefront from the sidelines? You can if you are a contributeFor someone her talents behind the scenes at her home Vikings cheerleader. Redwood Falls model and actress Evan Buysse’s energy and office desk, I do confess to having a secret desire to enthusiasm earned her spot on the coveted purple pride squad. be on stage. This started back in the early 70s when Fashion designer Amy Sinning lights things up backstage, in her studio, in my dream job was to be a dancer on the Carol Burnett the lives of students, and for fashionistas with her novelty lighted clothing. Show. I used to practice in my room to my dad’s Herb Combining art and fashion Sinning’s creations wow the river valley, and across Alpert records. Ya should have seen me strut and twirl the U.S. to “A Walk in the Black Forest”! But with my brothers’ aptly-suited nickname for me—”The Tripper,” and When friends and family tell you you’re good, maybe you should believe them. later, a friend’s endearment—”Stumbles,” that career Sierra Day-Krzmarzick was brought up on music, among other not-so positive dream was short lived. influences. But from those experiences her love of performance took root. The band Mayberry Riot’s front singer is a voice to be reckoned with. Fine. I’ll be a singer and comedian then. After all, my sister and I did a great rendition of the Smothers Our Spaces feature this month harkens back to the super club era with a joint that Brothers routines while swinging in the back yard. was very much center stage in the 1970s. The Cat & Fiddle Ballroom was the place I was Tommy and she was Dickie. Alas, a sisterly to be back in the day. I remember my best friend in grade school telling me that version of this famous duo was not to be. I still know was where she got to go on her birthday. Talk about jealous! And I had no clue all the words to “I Fell in a Vat of Chocolate” though. what or where it was at the time. It just sounded plain magical! Years later when That should count for something. The song rather my husband and I moved to this area we happened to venture in there one winter exemplifies what it might take to get people to day. We sat in the wild and wacky black and white bar whilst the famous original take notice... owner (dubbed The Cat Lady if memory serves) regaled us with stories of her life, and she even bought us a drink. Which our broke selves appreciated greatly! Tommy: I fell in a vat of chocolate. I just fell in a Everything old is new again with today’s owners Jason and Christa Walters. vat of chocolate. Sometimes nothing is more attention-grabbing than the cars we drive. Or drove. Dickie: Whatdya do when you fell into Oh the memories of our first vehicles! We asked readers on Facebook to share to the chocolate? the stories of their first set of wheels and were blown away by the responses. Both singing: Lolly too dum lolly too dum day... From a YUGO to a wood grain Pinto, or a Renault LeCar to a 1967 Nash Rambler, those days stay with you forever. Take a cruise down memory lane in our Tommy: I swam a lot. Then I yelled fire when I fell into two-page spread. the chocolate. My first car was a 1970 Ford Galaxy 500 which my dad bought first for my sister, Dickie: Why’d you yell fire when you fell then passed along to me. The. Worst. Car. Ever. I used to have to set the alarm at into the chocolate? midnight when I was in college, in the middle of winter, put on a snowmobile Tommy: Because who would come running if suit, start it up and drive it around the block a few times or it would not start in I yelled CHOCOLATE?! the morning to get to school. I just took this in stride. From this heap I went to a nifty two-seater Saab Sonnet with my boyfriend (now husband) to a big ol’ Both singing: Lolly too dum lolly too dum day! International Travel All (which could have held the Saab in the back) to a 1968 Chevy Impala named after our neighbor Ella (because she had it first), to an This month’s Center Stage themed issue stars Miss awesome brand new Suzuki Swift... and the list goes on. Our current rule is no one Mankato Taylor Sexton on the cover. Her foray into in our town can have the same cars we have. celebrity status started about the same age mine did, only with more successful results. Actress, vocalist, I have to say, I enjoy it when people look at me driving by, Smothers Brothers or pageant winner and yes, mermaid, Sexton strives to Herb Alpert blaring on the stereo, in a two-seater no one else has, imagining life “be the best me” she can be—crown, scales and all. Center Stage. Lolly too dum, lolly too dum day.

8 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 063774

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By Gina Dewink Photos by Rhonda Milbrett

Taylor Anne Sexton will be the first to tell you she doesn’t come from an “artsy” family. Yet without a family member suggesting she try out for a stage production when she was just seven years old, she may have never started on her path to life in center stage.

Passion for Performing Now 18, Sexton has amassed a resume of someone twice her age. A musical theatre performer, actor, vocalist – and now pageant winner – Sexton credits her passion for acting as the reason for her success. “I love the ability to take a person out of their own head,” Sexton said of acting. “To make them feel something. That magic that happens between audience and actor.” Since her first performance at age seven, Sexton has been in nearly 20 plays, five as leading lady.

Some of Sexton’s roles have included Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Tiffany Houston in Back to the 80s and Liesl in The Sound of Music. She has also appeared in Annie, The Buddy Holly Story, Guys and Dolls and Fiddler on the Roof. Through her years of acting, Sexton has attended several notable trainings, including Minnesota Renaissance Festival Academy, Ordway Triple Threat Training, Chanhassen Teen Intensive Camp, Chanhassen Theatre s Musical Theatre Camp and CLIMB Theatre.

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 11 Becoming a “Pageant Girl” In December, Taylor Sexton was crowned Miss Mankato. “I never would have thought of myself as a pageant girl,” Sexton stated. “In the beginning, I wasn’t sure I wanted to enter. But I fell in love with the core values of the contest: scholarship, service, success and style,” she TOP 10 recited. “It was something I knew I ABOUT would be honored to represent.” Miss Mankato is part of the Miss TAYLOR America Organization, requiring each contestant to choose an Nicknames: Tay & Tay Tay issue she cares deeply for as her First stage appearance: Age 7 platform. Once chosen, the winners Last book read: Art + Fear by address local organizations about David Bayles & Ted Orland their platform issues. Sexton, often known to use the hashtags Currently binge-watching: The #kindnessismagic and #createmagic, knew just what her platform would be. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt “Beyond performing, my other passion is kindness. I couldn’t imagine a better tool for bettering my Commercials seen in: 3 community than a ‘year of service’ through the Miss America Organization,” she said. The title of Sexton’s Instruments played: Guitar, platform is Creating Magic One Smile at a Time. soprano ukulele, baritone ukulele, flute, and learning piano The Best ‘Me’ She Could Be When it came time for the talent portion of the contest, Sexton chose her most beloved character to Mankato hangout: INdiGo represent: The Little Mermaid. After singing ‘Part of Your World,’ Sexton was awarded The George and Organic, the Coffee Hag, the Nadine Sugden Community Service Award, Miss Congeniality and crowned Miss Mankato. She tied for the Fillin’ Station, Bluff Park & JP Fitness People’s Choice Award. According to Sexton, that’s when the real work began. Most-used App: Netflix “I begin my day waking early and getting ready,” she explained. “It takes me about an hour to do my hair and makeup before a public event. I brush up on my platform as if I’m studying lines for a play. It’s the Foods: Strawberries, raspberries hardest thing I’ve ever done, mostly because it’s mental and physical. I have to be the best me I can be, & ice cream and that includes keeping a healthy diet.” Secretly loves: Bad jokes In June, Sexton was one of the state’s teens who competed for the Miss Minnesota crown. Held in Eden Prairie, Sexton joined contestants from across the state. She grew to become one of the contestants’ favorites when she asked the barista at a local coffee house “which mochas had chocolate in them.” Sexton recalls, “He made eye contact, took a deep breath and said, ‘All of them.’ It quickly became the inside joke of the group.” Sexton was not crowned Miss Minnesota, but won the Miracle Maker Award, meaning she raised the most money for the Children’s Miracle Network, and was placed in the top ten at Miss Minnesota. Sexton was overjoyed to be a part of it all. “You make so many friends whether you win or not! I say without a doubt, just try it. You never know what will happen. And you will meet so many other women who love and care about our community. It’s an amazing experience.”

12 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 “I love the ability to take a person out of their own head,” Sexton said of acting. “To make them feel something. That magic that happens between audience and actor.”

Renaissance Festival & Beyond Sexton graduated from Mankato West, and was accepted into the University of Minnesota Duluth this fall. Life up north will not keep her from her work as part of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. “I auditioned, joked with the directors and was hired on the spot,” Sexton recalled. “When the directors asked me what I would like to be, I said what any girl would say – a princess or a mermaid!” she stopped to smile. “The director told me to stand up, turn around, and asked how long my hair was. I did. And to my great surprise, I was cast as Cinderella.” Sexton later got her wish and performed in the festival’s Mermaid Cove as a mermaid as well. “My greatest moment at RenFest involves a four-year-old named Autumn. Somehow, she recognized me as all of my characters there! When her mother asked her who her favorite princess was, Autumn said, ‘My favorite princess is Princess Taylor.” Sexton plans to drive down from school each weekend to continue her performances at the Renaissance Festival. From “Dirty Dancing” lifts to dress rehearsals gone awry because of flying wigs, Sexton is full of stories of her love of acting. She concluded, “Of course the dream is to become a professional actor. Maybe at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, the Ordway, or a touring company. But the goal is always the same. Maybe someday you’ll see me singing on Broadway, maybe not…As long as I am performing, I will be happy.” RVW

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AMY SINNING FashionLIGHTS THE WORLD

Amy Sinning is shown with purple light dress featured at Raw Fusion event as well as WITH LOVE other events.

By Kristin Sjolie

Combining love of art, fashion, family and 13. It followed 10 principles for effective, in open studio,” Sinning said. “Boys loved youth to light the world her own unique high quality out of school time activities, the sewing machine and we talked about it way, Amy Sinning is making the world inspired by researched input from tweens. being just like driving a car!” a brighter place. When asked about her Four professional artists were needed per “We did screen printing field trips and accomplishments in the fashion world, the location to be part of a thirty month (2015- made hats with the students’ graphics, Cconversation inevitably returns to her work 2017) grant program piloted at four sites they designed and produced their own of the past two and a half years teaching in the United States, including the Boys individual shoes, and had ‘Project Runway’ youth. Through this experience she learned and Girls Club of Central Minnesota in St. type competitions,” Sinning said. Students about herself, and how sharing time and Cloud, Minnesota. Sinning applied, and was created costumes for their hip hop show passion for the arts with youth can make a hired as the only fashion design artist in the performance, instructed by one of the lasting difference in their lives, and hers. country. She taught twice a week, along other artists from the program. Tweens in with three other artists’ in the five-day-a- One day while scanning listings on the program did not remain in St. Cloud week central Minnesota program. the employment website indeed.com, for all field trips. Through the ‘Made Here’ Sinning found a job opportunity custom “I loved that boys and girls participated. Minneapolis Hennepin Theater Trust made for her talents and interests. The In the classes I taught I was able to create program they created a window display opportunity was for a program sponsored program curriculum from scratch. Kids on the ground floor of the IDS tower in by the Wallace Foundation, targeting at used the cutting table, serger, and sewing downtown Minneapolis. Sinning also led risk “tweens,” young people ages 10 to machines themselves during classes and the group on a field trip to her former high

16 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 school, Perpich High School for the Arts, at home with her family in Mapleton where factories there,” Sinning said. The variety in Golden Valley, Minnesota, to introduce her mother was an elementary art teacher, of experiences has proved invaluable students to alternatives involving a greater taught private lessons, owned a craft to her in developing her own work arts education, and arts career possibilities. store, and sold her own watercolor and oil “Puzzlelightdresses”, infinity lights dresses, “It shows them that you can come from a paintings at the farmer’s market. Sinning and Victorian inspired dresses. Fashionsmall place, go to college, and be in this grew up “helping paint stuff” to sell at the The Puzzlelightdresses are made out of industry,” said Sinning. craft store. She began pursuing fashion plastic lamp shade parts, illuminated with design on her own, sewing and exhibiting “I learned how important bringing the arts 4H projects. into young people’s lives is, and how it makes such a difference – it is so important She attended to not cut arts funding. Through the and graduated “WE ARE PART OF ONE UNIVERSE. Wallace Foundation project analysis, we from Perpich High EACH OF US CAN SHINE BRIGHTLY Iactually have data to show how student School for the grades and behavior improved (attendance Arts, and went on AND HELP MAKE OUR WORLD and maintaining grades were a condition of to college at the program attendance) because they wanted Fashion Institute A BETTER PLACE.” to attend the program,” said Sinning. “It’s of Design and good to have the program for older kids to Merchandising voluntarily show up. It keeps them from in Los Angeles, California. She was one of battery packs of color-changing LED lights. being home alone and possibly getting into four students to receive the Nolan Miller They combine Sinning’s love for art and trouble.” Scholarship, allowing her to attend for love for fashion. The plastic lamp pieces an additional year. During that year she are attached with a crocodile gun, and “It was tough at first, but once you bonded developed a full line of eight dresses, which sewn to a fitted Spandex sheath under with the kids, sitting down to sew and create were showcased at the Beverly Hills Hilton dress. They first debuted at the 2013 Raw opened up a way to connect with them and Debut Show that spring. “In college, we Fusion show in Mankato. The challenge be a role model. It gave the opportunity had two days of learning and three days was for designers to make pieces for the to talk about the fashion industry being of working in the industry. This gave me fashion show out of home supplies and cut-throat, and discuss some of the tougher the opportunity to work as a private label raw materials as a fundraiser for Habitat things in the industry like eating disorders,” pattern maker, and an assistant designer for Humanity. Rising to the challenge, the she said. for private label junior dresses. I also Puzzlelightdresses stole the show and have s Sinning’s journey to fashion design began made several trips to China to work with been featured in many other venues since.

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 17 Fine Line Cafe Raw Artists Showcase. Little white ballerina skirt with lights, popular with little and big princesses for dress up.

These include the Raw Artists Showcase at In addition to creating and promoting her on the Twin Rivers Board. Amy loves time in the Fine Line Café, Minneapolis, Minnesota, own designs, Sinning enjoys working at the nature, and volunteers on the Twin Rivers July 2013; the Rocco Altobelli Hair Show at New York fashion shows, in New York City, CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour. Sinning’s the Minneapolis Depot, September 2013; New York every September and February, focus will be closer to home for the next The Black and White Gala fundraiser for Twin helping dress and style models. Designers few years. Her most recent creation is nearly Rivers Art Council, Mankato, Minnesota, she has worked with include Oscar De La complete—a joint project with Shannon July 2013; a “Made Here” window display on Renta, Lauren Conrad, Thomas Wylde, that has taken nine months to complete, Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, November Pamella Roland, DKNY, VivianTan, Rachel and is due to debut this September. 2014, sponsored by Hennepin Theater Zoe, and Calia by Carrie Underwood. The display Sinning and her students Trust and Anderson Window; and the Sinning and her husband Shannon grew created in the IDS Center window featured Carnegie Art Show, Mankato, June 2016. up in Mapleton, and chose to raise their a quotation that sums up what happens Sinning also had her own Etsy website for children in Mankato to be close to family, when Amy Sinning shares her unique light the Puzzlelightdresses which rave party rather than fashion-focused Los Angeles or and love of life with the world. “We are attendees, and others looking for a very New York City. Shannon works for Gardner part of one universe. Each of us can shine unique dress, love. She has discontinued Financial Services, enjoys sports, and is a brightly and help make our world a better this site due to packaging and shipping big supporter of the arts, serving currently place.” RVW costs being prohibitive.

18 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Black and White Gala fundraiser for Twin Rivers.

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 19 Presented by: November 1–2, 2017

Liz Nead #ActiveLeadership Liz Nead is a speaker, coach and bestselling author who recently Attend the climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and returned with life-changing lessons in active leadership. Her passion, Nead Inspiration, is impacting 2017 Conference the lives of thousands with life coaching, magazine articles, public speaking, and life improvement television. Liz will focus November 1-2 on stretch-goals, inspirational encouragement, and how to #YWCALead encourage excellence and create a culture of servant leadership.

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The 2017 conference also features speakers Dr. Cindra Kamphoff, local Dream Weavers, a Women’s Business Expo, connection-building time and more! Register at MankatoYWCA.org/WLC 075483 VIKINGS CHEERLEADER EVAN BUYSSE IN THE SPOT LIGHT from the Sidelines

By Ruth Klossner Evan Buysse is an outdoors girl. She also loves shopping, fashion, and dance. And she loves sports, in particular the Minnesota Vikings. Buysse has been able to combine all those loves into a busy career. She’s a model, an actress, assists in buying for her mother’s boutique, enjoys hunting with her dad and brother, and is a second-year Vikings cheerleader. It’s a life that the vibrant Redwood Falls native embraces with energy and enthusiasm. Buysse admits, “I never knew what I really wanted to do” while studying communications and business at the College of St. Catherine. But it was there that she got into modeling and acting. After graduating in 2015, Evan kept getting jobs and stayed with it. When a modeling friend encouraged Evan to try out for the Minnesota Vikings cheerleading squad in 2015, Buysse looked into it and went to open auditions. After going through a lengthy process, Evan was named one of 42 cheerleaders for the 2016-17 team—and again for this year’s team.

Redwood Falls native Evan Buysse is on the sidelines of Minnesota Viking home games for the second year. She’s one of 42 Viking cheerleaders. 22 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 With Evan on the cheerleading squad, her Though she feels more secure as a second- Buysse has done commercials and parents Dan and Bonnie try to make it to year veteran this year—knowing how game photo shoots, including a lot of work for some games and her sister Megan and day goes—Buysse is still excited to be back companies such as 3M, Best Buy, and brother Dane attended a game last year. on the field for games. NFL cheerleaders Treasure Island. She’s also been on the perform only at home games—both pre- cover of author Judith Miller’s book The Although she’s not sure how long she’ll season and regular—so the August 27 pre- Artisan’s Wife. continue to try out for the team, Buysse is season game with San Francisco was the already making plans for next year. “I went to Barnes and Noble and was able to first of Buysse’s second season. find it. That was pretty cool,” she said. “Our contract only guarantees one year. The Come February—even if the Vikings are next year, everyone has to audition again. She’s also done a commercial for Kemps as not in the Super Bowl—Buysse noted that That’s good, it keeps us on our toes,” Evan a hand model. the cheerleaders will still be busy making said. “But, it’s hard not to come back. We’re appearances. She’s hoping, all so close. It’s like getting 41 sisters.” though, that the Vikings can Of this, her second year, Buysse added, “It’s break the drought of host teams kind of cool, being a veteran and leading not playing in the Super Bowl. the rookies. We have about a dozen and The Viking cheerleaders have they’re asking all these questions. It makes their own calendar. Evan was me wonder if I asked so many questions last excited to be the first rookie ever year!” to grace the back cover of the Once selected, team members practice calendar last year. She’s on the three times a week. May page this year. The calendars are available at the Vikings “Everyone on the team is required to have games and year around on the a full-time job, be a full-time student, or be Vikings official web site (www. a mother, so we practice in the evenings,” vikings.com). Proceeds from Buysse said. “We start in April and it doesn’t the calendar benefit childhood end until the Super Bowl. Since that’s cancer research at the University in Minneapolis this year, we’ll be busy. of Minnesota. Hopefully the Vikings will be in it. We really don’t have an off-season. We go through Viking cheerleaders are also February, then prep classes start in March.” active in the community, making appearances at charity events, While football fans may only catch a veterans’ hospitals, county fairs, glimpse of the cheerleaders on the field birthday parties, corporate during game time-outs, there’s much more events, and more. Cheerleaders to the role. are required to make at least two On game day, the cheerleaders arrive six appearances a month. Buysse hours before kickoff. For noon games, put in more than 100 hours last that means it’s a very early morning. They year. rehearse on the field, then make pre-game The cheerleaders also conduct Evan Buysse is an outdoors girl at heart. She enjoys hunting appearances throughout the stadium— the Junior Cheer program. and fishing—and drives a pickup truck! Evan’s full time job Vikings store, outside, the clubs, and on the After a few days of practice and is modeling. Working with an agency in the Twin Cities, field. They’re spread out in small groups and learning a cheer, more than Buysse models fashion, beauty, and jewelry about four times rotate responsibilities. The cheerleaders 400 participants performed a week for the national TV network Evine Live. then gather to form the tunnel for the on the field at the Vikings first players’ entrance and may do a pre-game pre-season game. The junior performance. Then they’re on the sidelines cheerleaders are three to 15 years for the anthem. old and signed up for the program online. Evan lives with her sister Megan in the During the game, groups of seven All of Evan’s cheerleading activities run Minnetonka/Hopkins area. Megan studied cheerleaders do sideline routines in each parallel to the modeling and acting that fashion design so Evan modeled for her in corner of the field, with the remaining girls she continues to pursue as her full-time job. college. The Buysse family operates Shining going up to the suites. The groups rotate Working with an agency in the Twin Cities, Sisters Fashion Boutique in Redwood Falls each quarter. Buysse models fashion, beauty items, and which Evan remembers helping to start Buysse definitely remembers her first game. jewelry about four times a week for the when she was 12 years old. “It was so exciting. It was the home opener national TV network Evine Live. “I try to get back to help mom when I can. against the Packers. It was the loudest it’s “That keeps me busy, along with I help a lot with buying. I go to shows with ever been. Going on the field as a rookie for cheerleading, and I’ve always going to her to pick out clothes and jewelry,” Evan the first time was very memorable.” s castings,” she said. said. “My sister makes the clothes, I wear

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 23 them and my mother sells them.” THE ROAD TO When she can find the BEING A VIKINGS time, Evan loves to go hunting and fishing and CHEERLEADER being outdoors. Although pre-season games don’t start “I love to hunt with my until August, the path to being an NFL dad and brother. I’ve been cheerleader begins months earlier. Prep out in the field one day classes are held in March to prepare and cheering the next,” prospective cheerleaders for the intense she said. “I’m also a big process. country music fan.” Open auditions are held in early April, with more than 100 girls taking part. They go through three or four rounds of cuts. Those who make it Her stint with the Vikings through return the next day for interviews and a photo session. squad may be surprising to some as Evan’s youth The next step is two weeks of training camp. During that time, a semi- included years of dancing final pageant with dancing, introductions, and questions is held at at the Redwood Dance Center, and Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis. There’s also a fitness portion of the the Redwood Valley High School pageant and a final number performed by the group of 55 to 60 semi- dance team, along with a host of finalists. other high school activities, including The final show—entirely dance focused—is held at the rotunda of the theatre and speech—everything but Mall of America. The next day, after final auditions, “the calls” are made cheerleading. RVW to those selected. It’s a tense time, with participants eagerly awaiting “the call.” After all successful candidates have been notified, the roster is posted on the Vikings web site.

Evan modeled for the Judith Miller In all, it’s a three-week process—with open auditions early in April and the team announced the end of the month. Practice starts the same day book The Artisan’s Wife. as the announcements are made.

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nordaashomes.com 059580 071506 071506 Sierra Day-Krzmarzick: SHE’S GOT THE Music IN HER By Kelly DeVriendt With her tall black boots, wild curly hair and a voice that has been said to share the range and passion of Heart’s Ann Wilson, Sierra Day- Krzmarzick commands the stage as the lead singer and lyricist of the Minnesota-based band, The Mayberry Riot. Although at home now in front of a crowd, this is a gig that she very easily could have missed booking. Day-Krzmarzkick grew up in the small town of Nevis, Minnesota in a household where both of her parents struggled with substance YOU’RE THE VOICE abuse. Although she always loved to sing, she never believed she was Sierra is no stranger to the experience of live music. Her dad, a any good. drummer for a local cover band, frequently brought her to shows. “I had stage fright,” she said. “People would tell me I was good, but “I was always part of the scene,” Sierra said. “I grew up watching my they were friends and family so I thought they were just saying that dad’s band.” because they felt they had to.” The scene included more than music—alcohol was also a constant Over the years, more and more people acknowledged her talent presence. Although her mother has been sober for the past five years, and eventually Day-Krzmarzick’s confidence—and her voice— her dad continues to battle his addiction. began to soar. “It was a pretty chaotic home life—I basically raised myself,” she said. Yet out of the turmoil, a love of music and performance took root.

28 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Over the years, that talent would slowly hitting drummer behind her, Sierra has blossom. no problem making her vocal presence known. It’s exactly what this band needs She joined choir in high school and had in a singer.” the opportunity to sing the national anthem. Still, she didn’t fully believe in her Despite her hesitance to write original talent. It wasn’t until the age of 21, when music, Sierra finally conceded—writing Sierra stood in front of her first bar crowd, her first song in one day. When she singing karaoke. presented it to the band, it just all came together. “Then it was easy,” she said, “I “Pretty soon I write about a song a week.” had an actual karaoke “She doesn’t pretend to be anyone that following,” she she’s not. She writes from the heart,” Baker said, “Everyone said. was telling me Sierra pulls from her upbringing and other how good I life experiences for the inspiration behind was.” her lyrics. This confidence “I have had a few people who tell me they boost led her enjoy my material,” she said. “They feel to audition for The Voice. She made it they can relate to it. It’s an indescribable through two rounds of auditions on two feeling to be able to express yourself and separate tries. know that it is touching someone else.” “After that I knew I wanted to do more,” THESE DREAMS she said. At the age of 29, Sierra has dreams of She started looking to put together her making it to the big stage. “I would love own cover band. She recorded some for The Mayberry Riot to be a touring songs and added them to social media. band,” she said. “At the time I wasn’t interested in original With a four-year-old son, Myles, at home, music,” Sierra said. She joined a cover however, road life might be a challenge. band—a gig that lasted one year. For now, the band is happy playing a few BARRACUDA shows a month. They hit the bar scenes Minnesota based modern rock band, The in Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa and Mayberry Riot, was in the market for a Wisconsin. Their biggest show to date was SIERRA SAYS: new lead singer after their main lyricist opening up for Bret Michaels last year at What is your secret, guilty music pleasure and singer had left the band after a one- Ribfest in Mankato. that you listen to? year stint. The Mayberry Riot consists of Sierra on Right now my Sirius radio is tuned to Pop 2K. So Although people were coming to them to lead vocals and lyricists duties, with Clark I may be singing along to N’Sync or Backstreet Boys. audition, they already had their sights set. “The Wolf” Baker and Jason Froehlke on Who are your biggest influences? guitars, Mark Hedlund on bass and a hard- “They had asked me two times to join,” My musical tastes are all over the place. But, hitting Ryan McKeown on drums. said Sierra. “But they did original music probably most inspired by classic rock—Led and I wasn’t interested in that.” The group blends their varied musical Zeppelin and The Doors. influences to create a versatile and original Finally, she budged and invited them to How would you describe your look? sound. “We don’t sound like anybody come watch her sing at her next show—a Black. You really can’t go wrong with black-- I else,” she said. show that included a cover of the band always wear my big black boots. I do try to have a Heart’s hit song, “Barracuda.” While all members have other paying presence on stage—some crazy nylons or ripped jobs outside of the band, Sierra says she skirt. And of course, my curly, crazy head-banging “It’s a challenging song,” she said, “with a doesn’t see herself doing anything but hair! lot of high notes to hit.” music. “There is no back-up plan at this Do you have any crazy fan stories? She nailed it and the members of point,” she said. I am hoping for one! But nothing yet. The Mayberry Riot were even more With support of friends and family, Sierra determined to bring her onboard. What do you want people to know about your has been able to keep living her passion. music? Clark Baker, aka “The Wolf,” is one of “I try to keep my eyes on the dream” she That rock is not dead! Come out and see us. the band’s guitarists. “There is true said. “If you focus hard enough, maybe it power in her voice,” Baker said. “With What does music mean to you? will find its way to you.”RVW two loud guitars, a bass, and a hard Everything.

Photo at left: The Mayberry Riot members, drummer Ryan McKeown, guitarist Jason Froehlke, guitarist Clark Baker, Sierra Day-Krzmarzick, and bassist Mark Hedlund.

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 29 061240 ASKCandee.

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ANNOUNCING OUR 2017/18 SEASON

MANKATO SYMPHONY IN THE SPOTLIGHT ORCHESTRA

Light the Night with Music at our SYMPHONIC SERIES

October 8, 2017 October 7, 2017 s rie December 17, 2017 se ily am e f March 10, 2018 fre s · rie se April 8, 2018 er mb ha l c hil May 20, 2018 e th on sic mu s · rie se see yourself at the Symphony! ic on ph ym 073119 for ticketss or more information visit www.mankatosymphony.com

SPACES

Christa Walters paused on the stairway for a moment while helping a bride set up for her big day. An appetizer table is at the foot of the stairs, with the bar off to the right, along with the buffet table. Living it

Up! Jason and Christa Walters with sons Blake and Cole. By Ruth Klossner

32 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 SPACES

A framed placemat from the old Cat & Fiddle Supper Club hangs on the wall in the entryway. Jason & Christa Walters live above and run a ballroom

When Jason Walters bought the former Cat & Fiddle building on Highway 68 between Cambria and New Ulm 12 years ago, he had no intention of running a ballroom. All he was looking for was a place with more outside area for his landscape business. That was well before Jason had any thoughts of planning a wedding reception. When he and Christa Johnson got engaged in 2009, they started looking for a place for their wedding reception, but found that everything was booked. With Jason already owning a big building that had once been “the” place to go for fun times, they got the idea to restore it for their wedding. It was no small undertaking, and one that friends and family asked, “You want to do what?” The building that Jason owned and used for his Earth Works Landscaping business had once housed both the popular Cat & Fiddle Supper Club and the Cat & Fiddle Dinner Theatre/Ballroom. “The Cat” closed in 1998 and an auction sold off everything that wasn’t attached—and quite a few things that were, including the wrought iron balcony railings. The building was home to several different businesses before Walters bought it, so the ballroom had been pretty much stripped. Using old photos and news clippings, Jason and Christa—and about 35 family members and friends—went to work in May 2009, just three months before the planned wedding. Top: The ballroom has a maximum seating capacity of 400. Here it’s They cleaned...and cleaned...and cleaned. They painted the concrete set up for a 275-person wedding reception, with the head table in floor in a red and black checkerboard pattern to duplicate the the middle, rather than on the stage. The stairway to the balcony is between the entry and the appetizer table and bar (background). original floor, painted the walls, installed new lights, put in new carpet. Wood railings were built to replace the lost wrought iron Middle: Jason and Christa Walters—with help from about 35 friends— ones. restored the old Cat & Fiddle Ballroom in just three months time in 2009. Because the original wrought iron railings had been removed, wood Jason found the old “CF” signs in a closet and restored them to railings were built to replace them. mount on the walls. Bottom: New hardwood floors were recently installed in the balcony. Christa recalled, “ A lot of people remembered what had been here For large events, a separate serving line and a second bar are set up on s and we wanted it to look just like it.” the balcony.

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 33 Although the original ballroom entrance had been on the west side, the entrance An attractive sign and landscaping greets visitors is now on the east side. It’s been landscaped and a small patio added. to the Cat & Fiddle.

With the help of those 35 family members and friends, the building in the upstairs apartment and host wedding receptions, reunions, was ready in time for Jason and Christa’s August 8, 2009 wedding. and parties downstairs. They have continued to upgrade the venue, decorating and improving as they go. They’ve added a backdrop Christa and Jason’s wedding guests were impressed with what the to the stage area, installed hardwood floors in the balcony, added couple had done and the questions started. People who had held accent lighting, remodeled the bathrooms, installed another air their wedding receptions at The Cat years earlier wanted to have conditioner, and landscaped around the entryway. their anniversary celebrations there—or their children wanted to have their receptions there. Others just wanted to have something “It’s a lot of fun to hear the memories that people share. The different than what’s offered elsewhere. grandmother of one bride commented, “The accent colors are the same, but the layout has changed,” Christa said. Over the last eight years, Christa and Jason have continued to live

075339

34 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 The old Cat & Fiddle had red and black floor tile so Jason and Christa painted Photos and news stories from the Cat & Fiddle’s heyday are framed the cement floor red and black to duplicate the original flooring. and displayed in the ballroom’s new entryway.

The ballroom lends itself to a variety of layouts for the various department at New Ulm Medical Center. events. Although a head table is often set up on the stage, Krista “Day 5 is here or with our boys, one of the two,” she said. “Our son likes a “harvest table” arrangement that has the head table in the Cole is six and Blake is four-and-a-half. They’re at the age where they middle of the room—leaving the stage open for the DJ or band. She like to help.” had it set up that way for a 275-person reception last month. (The ballroom is limited to 400 people by fire code.) The ballroom is hosting 10 events this year—booking only from mid-April to the end of October. That gives Jason more time for The Walters do all the set-up, tear down, and cleanup, with his business over the winter. Swany’s Pub of Courtland does all the help from a few friends. Jason is kept busy with his Earthworks catering and handles the bar with its transferable liquor license. business and Christa works four days a week in the ophthalmology RVW

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507.387.5933 • Residential • Commercial • Renovation • Collaboration 074872 Local cuisine & music highlight March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction

he 21st annual March of Dimes Mankato Signature Chefs Auction is September 21. The event includes a Front Row – Rachel Carpenter, Mindy Annis, Kay Scholtz, Jana Klein, Julie Vetter, Jodi Schull; social gathering showcasing unique Back Row – Judy Beetch, Candi Leary, Katie Beadell, Jenna Manske; Tlocal cuisine and tastings, special entertainment Not Pictured – Melissa Williams. by Betty & Ocho, along with a silent and live auction. TJ & Lisa with KATO Radio will be on hand as emcees. Familiar voices to many, they the Signature Chefs Auction, you can help fund research, advocacy, are the longest-running morning show team in the Mankato market. education, and community services for moms-to-be. Every year more than 15 million babies are born prematurely; a Chairs of the event are Julie Vetter, Mindy Annis and Rachel Carpenter. million will die before their first birthday as a result. With your gift at Last year’s event raised $100,000 and the chairs are hoping to top that this year. “This event offers a chance for our community to relax, enjoy some extraordinary food, and at the end of the night, have the satisfaction of knowing that we’ve played a part in helping 073129 ensure that more babies are born strong, healthy and full-term,” says Vetter. Year after year, local chefs create unique tastings for 21st Annual guests to enjoy. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of local chefs and restaurants, including many that have participated since the start,” says Annis. “We’re so grateful for their support.” Along with presenting their signature dish, chefs will also offer various packages for live auction. Carpenter shared that some of this year’s packages include a Maverick BBQ for 25 people from MSU Chefs Auction Dining Services as well as a Winter Blues Party from Volk Transfer and Bonfire. Longtime supporter, Pub 500, is offering dinner for two every September 21, 2017 month for a year. There are many more phenomenal packages up for Minnesota State University – Mankato auction. Centennial Student Union Ballroom New this year is a raffle where one lucky person will win a three- 5:30 Social Hour & Tasting Reception year lease on a new Honda. This fabulous prize is made possible – 7:30 + Silent Auction through the generosity of Presenting Sponsors Luther Mankato Honda and WEB Construction. Kerry Lindsay from Luther Honda and 7:30 Program - Presenting Sponsors: Josh Williams of WEB wanted to team up to support the ongoing Luther Mankato Honda and efforts of March of Dimes to help give babies a healthy start in life. WEB Construction “We’re committed to supporting causes that are important to our 8:00 Live Auction customers and employees,” says Lindsay. The March of Dimes is helping moms take charge of their health, and supporting families when something goes wrong.“ As a family run business, supporting Tickets: $125 at SignatureChefs.MarchOfDimes.org an organization that supports families really resonates with us,” said Williams. RVW Table Sponsorships available: Judy Beetch 507-317-7244

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Terri Prange Health & Lifestyle Coach 507-380-2160 [email protected] EATS A celebrity chef’s secrets to building a BETTER SANDWICH A great sandwich is a delicious meal choice, which could be why about • Don’t go crazy with condiments. “The more you mix them, the more 60 percent of American adults eat at least one for lunch every week muddled the flavor becomes,” Colicchio says. “Pick one that will really and 70 percent pack one or more in their children’s lunches, according accentuate the flavors you’re highlighting.” to food industry trend-watching company Datassential. In fact, • Finally, don’t overload your sandwich to ensure your ingredients sandwiches are so popular and so common that at some point in the won’t fall out or leave a mess behind when you take a bite. past you’ve probably made or eaten a lackluster sandwich. Bite into better However, every sandwich has the potential to be great - or at least Looking for sandwich inspiration? The America’s Better Sandwich better - says celebrity chef and sandwich expert Tom Colicchio. Contest, hosted by Arnold, Brownberry and Oroweat Breads, gives Sandwich starters entrants the chance to hone their skills by creating delicious and Americans eat more cold-cut sandwiches than any other kind, while nutritious sandwiches that feature the breads as the base. Visit www. burgers, poultry, hot dogs, other meats and peanut butter and americasbettersandwich.com for recipe inspiration, contest rules and jelly round out the six most commonly eaten types of sandwiches, to find out how to enter. according to the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. Whatever Meanwhile, try the contest’s winning sandwich recipe from last year: you decide to put in your sandwich, always start with the freshest ingredients available, Colicchio advises. “There’s no substitute for a perfectly ripe piece of produce.” Moroccan Rainbow “Create and customize sandwiches to fit your and your family’s Carrot Sandwiches palettes, not what the latest trends tell you to eat,” he says. “At the same time, don’t be afraid to experiment. One of the best things with Spicy Orange about sandwiches is the endless potential to create something new Dressing and delicious. If an experiment doesn’t work out, you can always try again tomorrow!” INGREDIENTS: 2 slices of Arnold, In fact, more than one-third of consumers say they love sandwiches Brownberry or Oroweat because of the ability to customize their meal by choosing from a Whole Grains Oatnut variety of proteins, vegetables, cheeses and condiments, Datassential Bread, toasted reports. 2 teaspoons extra virgin Building better sandwiches olive oil “The architecture of a sandwich is as important as what you put in it,” 1 teaspoon lemon juice Colicchio says. “I think there’s an actual science behind building the 1 teaspoon harissa better sandwich.” Colicchio, the James Beard Award-winning founder 1 tablespoon orange marmalade of Craft Hospitality and ‘wichcraft, offers some tips to help ensure 1/4 teaspoon each of ground coriander and ground cumin every sandwich you make is the best it can be: 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 pinch each of salt and black pepper • The bread is the foundation of every sandwich, and it should be as 3 medium assorted rainbow carrots, shaved into long ribbons sturdy as it is delicious. You can find a variety of quality options from with a vegetable peeler Arnold, Brownberry or Oroweat in the bread aisle of your local grocery 1/2 cup loosely packed arugula store. 2 teaspoons fresh mint, chiffonade • When dealing with messier ingredients like roasted vegetables or 2 tablespoons golden raisins condiments such as dressing, try lightly toasting or searing one side of 2 tablespoons chopped roasted pistachios each slice of bread in a pan atop the stove, until the side is crisp. Stack 3 tablespoons crumbled feta with the toasted sides facing in to help build a strong foundation for 1/4 cup roasted garlic hummus your sandwich. • Build from the bottom up. Place the driest and heaviest ingredients Directions: on the bottom slice of bread first before adding toppings like lettuce In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, harissa, and tomato. Spread condiments on the second slice of bread as the marmalade coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt and pepper. Add the last step before topping the sandwich. carrots, arugula, mint and raisins. Toss mixture and let sit for five • For cold sandwiches, place the cheese next to the bread to help minutes. reinforce the stability of the sandwich. For hot sandwiches, place the Gently stir in the pistachios and feta. cheese next to the meat so the flavors can interplay properly. Spread hummus over each slice of toast, and top with the carrot • To avoid sogginess and ensure consistent seasoning throughout, mixture. RVW dress greens before placing them on the sandwich.

42 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Practical meets pretty:

Fresh Herbs AT YOUR FINGERTIPS, EVEN IN AUTUMN

The end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of your gardening continually pinch-off the enjoyment. Herbs are perfect fall crops; they are prolific growers, can satisfy prolific leaf growth, which your desire for fresh, garden-grown greens and are one of the easiest ways encourages more growth and to elevate your recipes from so-so to so good! Plus, they’re ready to harvest harvest, until the weather turns cool, and growing your own will make a dent in your grocery bill. then bring the pot indoors. Harvested leaves can be continually dried, although freezing does a Getting started better job of preserving the herb’s flavor. Tip: Try If you decide to plant outdoors, it’s important to know when to expect the using old ice-cube trays, inserting basil leaves in first hard frost. You can find the estimated first frost date in your area by cells, filling with water and freezing. When weather checking out Bonnie’s online frost map. gets cold, you can easily pop your “basil ice-cubes” in You’ll want to choose herbs that like cooler weather, such as parsley, sage, recipes throughout the cold weather season. Basil is also rosemary, thyme, mint, chives, lavender and oregano. They’re all prolific tasty in some drinks, like lemonade and tea. producers and some, like mint and rosemary, are especially easy to grow. While clipping sprigs when cooking is a great way to harness the freshness Availability of Bonnie’s fall varieties is limited to specific regions, so check of any herb, you can also store them and they’ll maintain their flavor. your local garden retailers. Preserving by drying and freezing aren’t your only options; try adding Pick a place herbs as seasoning to cooking oils. You may envision pots full of leafy, green herbs sitting on a sunny Whether you’re an expert gardener or a first-time fall grower, autumn is windowsill, while colorful autumn leaves, or even snow, fall outside. the perfect time to fall in love with the freshness, flavor and ease of herb However, windowsills aren’t always a best bet for indoor herbs, especially if gardening. You’ve still got time to get growing! RVW your windows are drafty or the herbs brush the cold glass. Herbs need at least four to six hours of natural light per day to grow indoors, so choose a sunny spot near a window where they’ll be protected from drafts and cold. South and southwest-facing windows will give you 44° 3’ 4.6” N/94° 25’ 35.3” W the most natural light throughout the day. Windows facing north won’t provide enough sunlight. Picking the right pots If you really love rosemary, you may be tempted to try to plant the largest OCTOBER 5-8, 2017 pot appropriate for your kitchen, but stick with manageable-sized pots Thurs-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-5pm that will fit better indoors, allow you to keep your herbs more organized, and still produce plenty of yield. Be sure to choose pots that have good drainage and always use a premium potting mix. Caring for container herbs Any type of plant growing in a pot needs water, and herbs are no exception. You’ll need to keep a close eye on your herb plants’ watering needs. Remember, dry topsoil is not an indication plants need water. A Don’t Miss quick and easy test is to stick your finger, or a pencil, into the soil right The Quilt where the stem enters the soil. If the soil is moist at 1.5 to 2 inches deep, do not water. If dry, it’s time to water! Always water in the morning, at soil level Crawl and avoid watering the leaves, as bacteria can breed in cool, wet, damp and dark conditions, like night time. and Shellee’s Greenhouse UNIQUE GIFTS AND PERENNIAL SALE Fertilize your food plants. Water is an obvious must, but irrigation can wash . nutrients out of the soil. Plus, some potting mixes only have a short-term 609 W Main St, Madelia 507-317-3444 supply of fertilizer while others are slow-release. Read the label on your The 609 Barn Boutique offers one-of-a-kind, premium potting soil mix and follow the brand’s recommendations for creative, repurposed furniture, vintage, primitive fertilizing frequency. Timed-release granular fertilizer or a plant food you rustic decor for your home, business and garden. mix with water will help keep herbs nourished. Remember food plants are 075484 hungry! Best bets on basil Like DIY? Go Picking Under our Although basil is the most popular herb, it can sometimes struggle Big Top Tent for your Next Project! growing indoors. Start off growing it outdoors on a sunny deck. Be sure to

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 43 051583 RIVERFRONT HILLTOP 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. Love Your Lentils Lentils & Mushrooms Mankato, MN Mankato, MN With fall quickly approaching, and the school year 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Serves 6. By Chef Staci Stengel, Yankton (SD) HyVee. in full swing, hearty, healthy, and quick meals are a necessity. Enter lentils. ALL YOU NEED: 1 c. uncooked lentils The humble lentil has long lived in the shadow of its 1 (8 oz) package fresh mushrooms, sliced more popular legume cousin, the bean. Lentils are a 1 zucchini or yellow squash, chopped good source of filling fiber, with 10 grams per ½ cup serving. Since most Americans only get 12-15 grams 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced of fiber per day, adding ½ cup of lentils to soup, salad 1 tsp chopped fresh garlic or other recipes will bring most people up to the 2 tsp olive oil minimum recommended daily amount of fiber (25-35 1 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar grams/day). 2 tsp Dijon mustard The combination of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil breaks down slowly, providing a gradual release of 3 green onions, thinly sliced energy to the body. This sustains the feeling of fullness Freshly ground black pepper, to taste longer, helping to mute cravings that can lead to mindless munching. ALL YOU DO: Lentils provide a surprising nutrition bonus - folate, a B Cook lentils until soft but still retain shape, about 20 vitamin necessary for the production of new cells. One- minutes. Drain well. half cup of cooked lentils provides a whopping 45% of In a large sauté pan over medium heat, sauté the recommended daily value of folate. Add to this the mushrooms, zucchini, red bell pepper and garlic in protein (9 grams) and iron contained in lentils and you olive oil until just softened. Set aside. begin to see the power in this humble little legume. To make sauce, whisk together vinegar, mustard and HOW TO COOK LENTILS extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Lentils are a snap to cook. Unlike dried beans, lentils do not need to soak. Rinse and check for debris, then In a large bowl, toss together lentils, vegetables, boil until tender, about 20 to 30 minutes. Drain and sauce and green onions and season to taste with rinse under cold water. black pepper. Serve warm or chilled.

BUYING AND STORING LENTILS Lentils can be found with the dried beans in the soup DAILY NUTRITIONAL VALUES: aisle at the grocery store or in the bulk section. Store 15% vitamin A, 60% vitamin C, 4% calcium, 20% iron dry lentils in an air-tight container in a cool, dry, dark Find nutrition information per serving and more place and they will keep indefinitely. Cooked, covered recipes at HyVee.com. lentils will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

WAYS TO LOVE YOUR LENTILS - Fix a simple salad by squeezing fresh lemon juice over cooked and chilled lentils and stirring in cut fresh MEDICARE PLAN veggies; garnish with feta cheese. - Mix cooked lentils with chicken stock, sautéed onions, celery, carrots, spinach, tomatoes and your choice of herbs and spices for a quick lentil-vegetable soup. SIGN-UP ASSISTANCE - Mash lentils into your beans and top with shredded cheese to make bean-and-lentil burritos. Hy-Vee pharmacy is your Medicare Part D expert. Your Hy-Vee Pharmacy offers assistance with the - Use as a meat substitute for tacos. Cook as directed Medicare Part D Open Enrollment period. If you have any questions regarding the sign-up process above and season with taco seasoning. or any questions regarding which plan might be best for you, stop in and visit with us today. April Graff, MS, RD, LD Hilltop Hy-Vee Dietitian 059519 RIVERFRONT HILLTOP 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. Love Your Lentils Lentils & Mushrooms Mankato, MN Mankato, MN With fall quickly approaching, and the school year 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Serves 6. By Chef Staci Stengel, Yankton (SD) HyVee. in full swing, hearty, healthy, and quick meals are a necessity. Enter lentils. ALL YOU NEED: 1 c. uncooked lentils The humble lentil has long lived in the shadow of its 1 (8 oz) package fresh mushrooms, sliced more popular legume cousin, the bean. Lentils are a 1 zucchini or yellow squash, chopped good source of filling fiber, with 10 grams per ½ cup serving. Since most Americans only get 12-15 grams 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced of fiber per day, adding ½ cup of lentils to soup, salad 1 tsp chopped fresh garlic or other recipes will bring most people up to the 2 tsp olive oil minimum recommended daily amount of fiber (25-35 1 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar grams/day). 2 tsp Dijon mustard The combination of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil breaks down slowly, providing a gradual release of 3 green onions, thinly sliced energy to the body. This sustains the feeling of fullness Freshly ground black pepper, to taste longer, helping to mute cravings that can lead to mindless munching. ALL YOU DO: Lentils provide a surprising nutrition bonus - folate, a B Cook lentils until soft but still retain shape, about 20 vitamin necessary for the production of new cells. One- minutes. Drain well. half cup of cooked lentils provides a whopping 45% of In a large sauté pan over medium heat, sauté the recommended daily value of folate. Add to this the mushrooms, zucchini, red bell pepper and garlic in protein (9 grams) and iron contained in lentils and you olive oil until just softened. Set aside. begin to see the power in this humble little legume. To make sauce, whisk together vinegar, mustard and HOW TO COOK LENTILS extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Lentils are a snap to cook. Unlike dried beans, lentils do not need to soak. Rinse and check for debris, then In a large bowl, toss together lentils, vegetables, boil until tender, about 20 to 30 minutes. Drain and sauce and green onions and season to taste with rinse under cold water. black pepper. Serve warm or chilled.

Jessica: My first car was a Mercury Zephyer. It Linda: ‘66 Chrysler New Yorker, once my Clarenda: My first car was a Ford probe. It was faded red and the interior was red plaid! dad’s car. Took it to college after walking the was my mother’s. She passed away due to Total tank, I was rear ended pulling into my entire first year. Solid steel dash, dark blue drinking and driving. She drove that car into driveway and didn’t even get a dent! boat! It got noticed. a ditch and walked to the road for help and was struck by another driver. I loved that car Sue: My first car was a maroon 1967 Robin: Red Volkswagen bug. Fun car but not and was so happy that I learned how to drive Plymouth VIP. It was huge! Reliable, though. for Minnesota winters. Gas gauge didn’t work stick so I could have it. I had great memories so ran out of gas one time. It only took once. Trish: Ford Pinto station wagon with wood with my mom in that car and made great grain. The clear coat was peeling so you Jill: ‘97 Plymouth Breeze... baby poop green. memories with my friends. could see pieces of that fly off and there were Chelsey: 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Best Sara: Chevy Chevette. Don’t remember the holes by the shifter so you could see the road memory was I drove it for 2 weeks being told year. Oxydized blue. Manual. Tough summer pass by. If you stepped on the gas too hard it was just to “test” before my dad said it was up and down hills. Pretty sure I couldn’t drive and let off, it would backfire. But it was a free actually mine. 249k and she died on me. a stick today. car, so I drove it and shut my mouth! Cassie: 1987 Chevy Celebrity. It was great Anne: ‘86 ford mustang. Candy apple red! Carol: 1980 Renault LeCar, only had to weld cruising around with friends with the music manual transmission.. lots of memories the exhaust about once a week, it barely had turned way up! cruising Broadway and killing it at stop lights heat, most of the heat came from the exhaust blowing on the inner fender well, heating up Lisa: 1972 Dodge Dart Swinger, red with a Susan: Orange ‘72 Toyota Corona I got the floor. It was a pile, but I bought it for $100 white top with white interior. My grandpa married and gave it to my mom because with my own money when I was 16. Picture bought it new and had AC put in a box under she was too poor to afford her own car! Had is not actual as there was no reason to have the dash. I was 3rd generation to drive that 8 track tape in it with Led Zepplin tapes ever taken a picture of it and it was never in car. and others like it So my aged mother drove the nice of shape. around in this hard rock car! Peg: 1975 faded yellow Ford Mustang. Paid $150 in 1985. It was a manual. Never drove Ashley: 1986 Ford Bronco II. It was technically one so imagine the test drive. Little did I blue and silver, but it mostly displayed a rust know I was driving with the broken parking color. It wasn’t pretty but it got me from brake on. My friend tried to show me how to point A to point B...most of the time. drive a manual. After many whiplashes to all Charlene: 1975 Red Camaro. It was used but in the car. I learned and still can drive a still great, miss those days cruising around in manual. Zoom zoom. a sporty car. Amber: 1990 Chevy Amy: I had a 1988 S-10 5 speed pickup. It Cavalier Z24. only had an AM radio so that is what got me Melissa: A Hyundai listening to country music! It also allowed me Elantra I shared with my to start it, pull the keys out of the ignition to parents until I went to leave it run as I locked the door! college. Crista Ann: My first car was 1981 Monte Tiffany Ann: An ‘89 light blue Carlo. I loved that car. It was not a fast one Cutlass Ciera I bought for $500 in 2001. as it only had a V6 and I couldn’t lock the We nicknamed it the “blue goose”...because doors. It had blue interior lights too. We had so much fun cruising the drag in Owatonna Kelly Jo: I learned to drive in the family ‘92 it was blue, obviously, but also because it meeting tons of people and going roading Dodge Caravan. First car I owned was a black sounded like a distressed goose most of the listening to loud music. ‘79 Ford Mustang. Floor board rusted and time. I don’t think it made it a year before dying for good! mice lived in the trunk. The sunroof leaked Marnie: 1983 Honda Civic Wagovan, sparkle too. I stapled Saran wrap to the ceiling. It also Julia: 1970 Buick Skylark, tan inside and brown, manual transmission. I learned to stalled all the time because it needed a new outside, no gas gage, four door “grandma drive with my dad in the university of Dayton carburetor. Stalled on Broadway one night car.” But... it had a 350 engine so I loved to football stadium parking lot. I stalled out after Menagerie practice! Learned a lot about race other cars down Central Avenue in MPLS quite a few times, but can use a stick shift cars with that beast! (mostly men/boys who thought they were today! SO cool) and WIN! haha! I bought it for $250 Jessica: Pontiac Grand Am. Big yellow fox Jan: White Plymouth Belvedere with the and drove it for three years. Sold it for $250. I sticker in the back and a nice blue color. reverse going out in the transmission. I loved that first car. had to make sure that wherever I parked I

46 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 wouldn’t need to back up. That was pretty Angie: 1991 Ford Tempo. Fit 7 people in that okay car, but it got me in trouble... How you challenging. Also, the right passenger door car at one time, a lot of good memories with ask? I was driving to the campground (where wouldn’t open! that car lol we were staying for the weekend) from work, and I didn’t have a cell (under 18). The car Leanne: White Acura... I had it up to 104 ‘til i Royal: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air two door hard started sputtering got scared. top. It was a gem. and wouldn’t go very In the winter Jennifer: A 1977 Chevy Monte Carlo...it didn’t fast. I didn’t make it the passenger “But it had a kicking stereo have a radio so we played CDs in a boom box to the campground door lock froze that played my Purple Rain on the front seat. We had a designated DJ. in a ‘reasonable and wouldn’t I was the envy of every young boy with my cassette like a boss!” amount of time’ since shut. I had to tie mag wheels and leather racing stripe seats. my shift had ended a clothes line to and my parents LeAnne: 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, the handle in the front seat to the window thought I had purposefully broke curfew. I Red with a white Landau top. My husband crank in the back seat. Ain’t it a dinger?! told them the car wasn’t working properly (boyfriend at the time) bought it with his Beth: I remember that it was a Mitsubishi. I and I didn’t know what was going on and I wheat harvest money: $5,665 brand spankin’ put that poor car through so much. I knocked was just glad I made it.. they didn’t believe new! We loved that car-only had to get rid of out the sunroof and ran over it. I forgot to set me. Next morning, my dad tried to drive the it when we got up to two kids to put in the the brake, and it rolled down the hill and into car around the campground to determine back seat. Difficult to get into two car seats in the woods and we couldn’t find it. I blew the if I had been lying and it didn’t even make a two door car. head gasket on a trip home for Easter. I never it around the campground before it totally Shelley: I had a YUGO.... yep that’s right! It made it home that weekend. The paint wore died on him. The fuel pump went out and I was tan, the heat about melted your skin (it off, and we repainted it. I loved that car, and was no longer in trouble wasn’t adjustable), and it was so incredibly when he (yes, he) finally couldn’t make it any Krystle: Pontiac Grand AM. My parents tiny. more, I cried inconsolably. bought it for me for $400. I drove it from Michelle: My first car was a light yellow 1980 Renae: 1993 Pontiac sunbird. Worked as a Sleepy Eye to Mankato and back at 15 Volkswagen Rabbit. I purchased it myself at waitress in high school and saved $1100 cash without a license when they were gone and 17 for $800. During the time I drove it Batman to buy it on my own my senior year. Red, 2 thankfully my stupid self didn’t get caught! was big in the movies and was dubbed the door with a sunroof; I was so proud of myself! The tires were bald too! Rabbitmobile. Served me alot of good years! Laurie: Ford Ltd. The LaTeda! No clue on the s Sarah: 199? Pontiac Grand Prix. It was an year...old

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 47 Roz: 1987 Buick century. Got in an accident a first snowstorm after getting the car. She was Sue: Chevy Chevelle. It had rusted out holes in month after getting my license and my dad beautiful, slippery, and noisy! the wheel wells so if I drove on a gravel road had to put a diff. front bumper on and it was a the interior filled with dust. It also had retread Tina: It was in 1989. A used white Toyota duller version of the color of the car. I always tires. I think my parents liked it that way so Celica. I bought it for $1000 (took out my first knew which car was mine though! that I wouldn’t trust it to try to take it out of loan at 17 yrs old to buy it). It was a stick shift town. The one and only time I tried to fill a Tranace: I had a Ford Taurus from 1993, my which I had never driven before. I brought my Taco Johns craving, I got a flat and had to limp uncle had hit three deer with it so sold it to friend who knew how to drive one hoping she it back. But it had a kicking stereo that played me really cheap, by end of project it was 6 or 7 would drive it home for me. That way I could my Purple Rain cassette like a boss! different colors...real beauty. practice driving on back roads. She told me it was my car and made me learn right then and Sarah: My first car was a Geo Metro hatchback. Barb: Driving an inherited 1968 Ford Fairlane there! Great memories. It was stick-shift and it was mine! But those as a teen in 1987 was definitely not cool, but I were the only good things about it! sure missed the V8 horsepower when I got a Shawna: ‘76 Regal Buick. My dad pulled it out newer car. of a corn field and we did all the Bondo work Terri: My first car was a 1976 two-door Ford on it to restore the body, and painted it silver. I Pinto, stick shift. So excited when I bought Jodie: A 1967 Nash Rambler station wagon, will always remember the time I spent with my the car, with a luggage rack on the top. I was 16 and dad finishing the body. my grandpa sold it to me for a $1.00! AM radio, with just the lap seatbelts it got me where I John: ‘69 Camaro. Blue with the white stripe needed to go! down the side. Paid for it myself from the sale of some FFA hogs. Julie: 1952 Dodge pickup! Loved cruising in it and getting 6 mpg. Back then gas was only Pam: I had my $.75 a gallon. heart set on a red Camaro and my Mary: 197? Chrysler woodie station wagon. dad picked out It had crank windows and a broken gas gage. an ugly green We used to stick a stick into the gas tank to see Ford Bobcat. how much gas we had left. Carrinda: Plymouth Kelly: A Grand Am (not sure of the year) was paid cash, so I got a discount. Had Horizon! That thing sure the first car I owned. It would kill at stop signs to have my brother drive the car home whipped in and out of traffic! all the time! because I didn’t know how to drive a stick! My Donna: A blue 1974 Ford Mustang. It would sister took me out for “driving lessons,” put car Jill: 1984 Ford Granada, dark blue. Ran great— stall if you would take right turns too fast. My into first gear, slowly release the clutch, shift until I crashed it—not too long after my dad dad was a mechanic and when I told him he into 2nd gear, start all over again until I didn’t bought it for me. Bottomed out on a low told me to not take the corners so fast! LOL! kill the engine! Had the car for six years, until spot on a road and I “ate” the steering wheel. the engine seized up...no one told me you had Knocked out my two front teeth. Ana: ‘92 B2600 Mazda 4x4. No matter what, to change the oil so often! lol I knew I was getting home. That thing went Jessi: My first car was a 1987 Oldsmobile through everything! Mud, sleet, snow you Deb: Orange and white 1974 pinto wagon, gas Cutlass—my dad’s old car that he couldn’t name it. Any other vehicle I’ve had would have gauge didn’t work and the gas pedal would part with, which was also the same age as me. gotten stuck. That truck was amazing. sometimes stick at 30 mph. Within the first week of it being “fixed” up the driver’s side wheel flew off and rolled into a Stephanie: 1994 Nissan Sentra. The first time Jane: A white 1974 Camaro. Sure wish I had field. Needless to say, it wasn’t my car for long! we did a oil change, I ended up driving off the that car now! Although the SUV I drive now is front tire ramps. Thankfully it landed on the definitely a lot easier to get in and out of than Kathy: Mine was a 1958 Buick and I was in the frame, but we couldn’t pull the ramps out. So what that Camaro would be at my tender age 6th grade, lived in the country and drove all we had to find a jack. Once we got the ramps of 61 now! Lol! over. out, I had to drive up the ramps again anyways Kate: A little blue pickup truck. Stick shift (of to finish the oil change. My friend’s driveway Rachel: A Ford tempo that was a stick shift. course). The price was right. I was right out of still has the marks and dips from our first oil After a night of my boyfriend trying to teach college (yes, I didn’t have a car to drive until change. me how to drive it, he gave up and I spent the after college). I thought having a pick-up truck next day going around the block myself about Lisa: I got my first car in 1992. It was a light was kind of dumb. But it became a rapport 300 times before I figured it out! green 1964 Chevy Impala. What I remember builder. I was working with kids who were Kellie: First car was a 1972 Ford Pinto. It was was it was a huge boat that had no power abused as a child therapist. Part of my job blue. I paid $200 for it in 1980. It was so rusted steering and had holes in the floor boards. was to remove kids from their homes and get out you could see the ground go past from the them into a safe place. In a time a crisis for Beckie: Back in 1992, I drove a 1977 Chevy passenger side floorboard. But it was all mine. the children, they were always intrigued that Citation. I called it Tank. I rear ended someone I drove a pick-up truck (especially the little Stephanie: My first car was a 1982 two-toned going 35 mph. Totaled the backend of their boys). The kids loved it along with the ice maroon and beige Chevrolet Monte Carlo that car, but on my car, only the frame was slightly cream cones I would buy for them. my stepfather put a diesel motor into for some bent. I drove it for awhile because of that, reason. I had to hold in the “glow plugs” for AND because no one wanted to steal that old Karen: A 197? Plymouth Grand Fury. It was three “alligators” to start the car. It had rear- beater! HUGE! At night on the weekends myself and 7 wheel drive and I put in the ditch during the friends could drive around town in one vehicle

48 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 because we could fit 4 girls in the front seat but it worked great for hauling speakers and kids waved to him when he was driving it. and 4 girls in the back amplifiers for my college band. Pamela: My first car was a 1959 Renault. A Betty: I purchased a ‘71 Impala while at Rebecca: 1964 metallic green Oldsmobile. It UK made car, it looked a bit like the original college in about 1985. It was a huge boat of was my grandma’s car. I loved it! a car and it only cost $300. When we were Melanie: A yellow Citation. It was married in 1986, our friends wrote “Powered “It was so rusted out you could see the my go to college car. Mom and By Love” on the car with shaving creme. Well... ground go past from the passenger side dad bought it. I remember many it ate into the paint, so even years later, you trips in my yellow bumble bee car. floorboard. But it was all mine. could still make out the words “Powered By Just like transformers. Love.” Mary: It was a 1972 Ford Pinto. Calypso Volkswagon Bug, with the motor in the back Denise: Dodge Omni 024. So I’d seen my dad orange! It was first car bought brand new for and the trunk in the front. It had a 3 speed on do maintenance on his vehicle all my life. $3,972 ! Thought it was so cool. the floor, and I did a lot of showing off with Well he put water in the radiator right? Um ya my ability to drive a manual transmission, as maybe not in the winter. Radiator was a solid Gloria: Bright orange Cougar. even in the late 60s the automatic transmission block of ice and I learned a lesson. Stephanie: I bought it for $200 my freshman was the most common entity. I also did my Dayna: 1974 Gran Torino, 2 door coupe. It year of college (early ‘90s). It was a pumpkin own oil changes and upkeep, as that was was a beautiful chocolate brown with brown orange ‘68 Mazda GLC with manual part of the expectation of having my own leather interior. Thinking about it brings transmission. It lacked in every area, including vehicle. Although the car was built to hold 4, flashes of cruising down gravel roads, jammin’ not having a radio! So when I took it across we usually jammed in at least 5 or 6 giggly out to Joan Jett. Wisconsin to visit my best pal at the UW- teenagers, and it had a top speed of around Madison, I dropped major bucks on D cells for 60 mph. I believe my dad paid $50 for the car, Jen: A 1978 red Chevy Chevette that had a my boom box passenger! My coworkers often and I drove it for almost 2 years, when I found hole in the driver’s side floor that I covered threatened to superglue a green solo cup to myself out past curfew during my senior year with cardboard! Stick shift too! It only cost the roof. of high school. I pushed it harder and faster $500. than it could handle and threw a rod, leaving Jackie: 1977 blue Camaro. Racing the boys to Cindy: It was a 1986 Buick. I loved that car. parts scattered over a hefty section of road. It school every morning on 10 mile route! would have cost 4 times what was paid for the Mandy: I was 19, and I drove an old Astro van. Brenda: I went halvsies on a pickup with my car to fix it, so I sadly said goodbye to an old It handled horribly in any kind of weather, dad. He never could figure out why so many friend. RVW good luck keeping your handS off. Woman 2 Woman We know what you like when shopping for a vehicle. No need to dread a visit to a car dealership, because we speak your language!

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Sat., Sept. 2 provided; limit of 20 people Green Giant Marketing Art, the TO HAVE YOUR • Free Guided Sculpture Walk (age 8+). Prior sign up required. Mothers Statue & folk art from EVENT LISTED Tour, Inter-Government Center, Info: 507-384-8890 or scott. mid-1800s. Info: 507-665-3250 E-mail Ruth Klossner at Mankato, 10 Civic Center Plaza, [email protected]. or [email protected]. [email protected] by Mankato, 10 am. Tour of 2017 the 15th of the month. Listings CityArt Walking Sculptures, by Sat. & Sun., Sept. 2-3 Sat., Sept. 2 & 16 are generally for events that artists across U.S. Info: face- • Toy Show, New Ulm Civic • A New Look at the Carvings, are free to the public, or are book.com/CityArtMankato/. Center, 1212 N Franklin St., New 27160 Co. Rd. 2, Comfrey. fund-raisers. Listings will be Ulm. 9 am-4 pm Sat; 10 am-3 Explore Petroglyphs rock face published as space allows and • Classic Car Roll-In, Kingpins, pm Sun. Cars, trucks & various in bare feet, see newly uncov- at the discretion of the editor. 1671 S. Third St., St. Peter, 1-4 collectibles, farm layouts. Info: ered petroglyphs. Interpreter pm. Cars, food, beverages. Info: 507-381-8234 or 507-381-8235. available. Be prepared to walk Fri., Sept. 1 507-934-5464. on uneven surfaces. Info: sites. • Classic Car Friday Finale at Sat., Sept. 2-Sun., Oct. 1 mnhs.org/historic-sites/jef- Dave’s Place, downtown Lafay- • Digital Photography, Minneopa • Minnesota Renaissance fers-petroglyphs/. ette. Hundreds of cars, food & State Park, 5 mi. W of Mankato Festival, 12364 Chestnut Blvd, drink available. Info: Facebook on Hwys 68 & 169, 2 pm. Learn Shakopee. Long-standing tra- Sat.-Mon., Sept. 2-4 or 507-228-8910. to use digital camera; cameras dition. Weekends & Labor Day, • Key City Kennel Club's All provided, limit of 20 people 9 am-7 pm, rain or shine. Info: Breed, Obedience and Rally Fri., Sept. 1-Mon., Sept. 25 (age 8 years+). Prior sign up 952-445-7361. Show, Nicollet County Fair- • Big Idea Real World Experience required. Info: 507-384-8890 or grounds, 400 Union St., St Peter. Classes, High School, 1600 Oak [email protected]. Sat., Sept. 2 & 9 Info: 507-344-1159 or keyci- St., New Ulm. Sewing & carpen- • Mayo House Art Work, Dr. [email protected] try classes. Info: bigideasusa. • Geocaching 101, Minneopa William W. Mayo House, 118 N. org or bigideas@bigideasusa. State Park, 5 mi. W of Mankato Main St., Le Sueur, 10 am-1 pm. Sun., Sept. 3 org. on Hwys 68 & 169, 4 pm. High Special interpretation of art- • The West Arrives at the Harkin tech treasure hunt. GPS units work relating to Mayo House, Store in West Newton, 66289 Co.

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52 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Lone- Tues., Sept. 5, 12, 19 & 26 Fri., Sept. 8 com or renvillecountyhistory. some Ron shares cowboy ballads, • Henderson Classic Car Roll In, • Lind House Pitchfork Fondue, com/. yodels & stories. Info: 507-354- historic Main Street, Henderson, Hermann Heights Park Shelter 8666 or [email protected]. 5 pm. Food, fun, music & car talk. #1, New Ulm, 5-7 pm. Sirloin • Mankato Walk to End Alzhei- Rain or shine. Info: facebook. steaks deep-fried by Lind House mer’s, Sibley Park, 900 Park • Monarch Tagging, Fort Ridgely com/hendersonrollin or twitter. board members; corn on cob, Lane, Mankato. 10 am opening State Park, 72404 Co. Rd. 30, com/hendersonrollin. more. Child's hot dog meal avail- ceremony & walk. 1 or 2.5-mi Fairfax, 11 am. Info: Learn about able. Info: 766-0725, 359-9162 or route. Family friendly, snacks & and tag Monarchs. Info: 507-384- Wed., Sept. 6 lindhouse.org. beverages, entertainment. Info: 8890 or scott.kudelka@state. • Bike Night Wednesday Finale at alz.org/walk or 507-289-3950. mn.us. Dave’s Place, downtown Lafay- Fri.-Sat., Sept. 8-9 ette. Hundreds of bikes, food & • Mankato LGBTQA Pridefest, • Monarch Tagging, Ney Nature Mon., Sept. 4 drink available. Info: Facebook or Loose Moose Saloon, Vetter Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln., • Community Walk, Riverside Park 507-228-8910. Stone Amphitheater & VFW, Henderson, 9-11 am. Collect & tennis courts, Springfield, 7 pm, Mankato. Queeraoke 8 pm Fri. tag monarchs. All ages, reser- weather permitting. Everyone Thurs., Sept. 7 Parade 11:30 am Sat. Music, food, vations required. Info: 507-357- welcome to help create healthy • Digital Nature Photography exhibitors, artists, kids crafts, 8580 or michellei@neycenter. habits. Info: springfieldmncham- Class, Treaty Site History Center, inflatables, more. Rain or shine. org. ber.org/event-calendar/. 1851 N Minnesota Ave, St. Peter, Info: scmnpride.org/. 7-9 pm. Free, limited to 20, regis- • Drew's Crew 5K Colorfest Walk/ Tues., Sept. 5 & Oct. 3 tration required. Hands-on, learn • Lake Crystal Fall City Wide Ga- Run, Harman Park, New Ulm, • Roadhouse Bar & Grill Roll-In to use digital camera; cameras rage Sale. Info: lakecrystalcham- 11 am. Proceeds help Drew 2017, Wabasso, 713 Main St., provided. Info & registration: ber.com or 507-726-6088. Aufderheide with medical Wabasso. Info: 507-342-2006 or 507-934-2160 or director@ expenses due to incurable form wabassoroadhouse.com/. nchsmn.org. Sat., Sept. 9 of Leukemia (CML); donations • Annual Patriotic Pancake Break- tax deductible. Food, DJ, live • Free Medicare Educational Thurs., Sept. 7 & 21 and Oct. 5 fast, Renville Co. Hist. Soc. & auction. Info & race registration: Sessions (Part 1), MNRAAA • Cruisin’ on 99 & Pine, downtown Museum, 441 North Park Drive, RaceEntry.com, DrewsCrew.org Office, 201 N Broad St., Ste 102, Nicollet, 5-8 pm. Cars & bikes. Morton, 9-11 am. Music; free will or 507-276-4428. Mankato, 3:30-5:30 pm. Learn to Food & beverages available. Info: donations. Info: 507-697-6147, navigate Medicare maze. Limited • HermannFest, Hermann

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 53 St., & Harmon Park, 101 N. McLeod for Tomorrow. Info: 612- Sun., Sept. 10 ipation. Info: 507-384-8890 or Garden St., New Ulm, 10 am-10 501-9005 or mft501c3@gmail. • Grandparents Day at the Harkin [email protected]. pm. Live German music, German com. Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, New & American food, Schell's Beer Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-354-8666 Mon., Sept. 11 & 1919 root beer. Thunder in • 8th Annual Grape Stomp & Ven- or [email protected]. • Brain Expo, Jakes Stadium Pizza, the Valley by New Ulm Battery dor Show, Indian Island Winery, Mankato, 4-8 pm. Speaker on & New Ulm Municipal Band, 18018-631st Ave., Janesville. • 44th Annual Lions Fly-In emergency preparedness for fireworks over Hermann Monu- Stomp or watch others compete Breakfast, Municipal Airport people with disabilities; info of ment, 8:30 pm. for prizes & best costumes. (KULM), New Ulm, 7 am-12:30 brain healthy foods. Recognition Live music 3:30-8:30 pm. Info: pm. All-you-can eat pancakes & & door prizes for brain injury • Utschtallung-Heritage Fair, 1803 [email protected] sausages; free breakfast to fly-in survivors. Info: [email protected], Mountain Lake Rd, Mountain or 507-234-6222. pilots. Helicopter rides available. 507-228-8161 or mnbif.org. Lake, 10 am-4 pm. Food, fun & Supports sight, hearing & dia- entertainment at Minnesota's • Saturday on the Farm, Minne- betes programs. Info: 507-354- Thurs., Sept. 14 only authentic 1884 Mennonite sota Agricultural Interpretive 8940, 612-501-2719, bbschir@ • Cruz ‘IN Lake Crystal, Marston homestead. Info: 507-427-2023 Center, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca, comcast.net. Park, 5-8 pm. Historical, classic, or mnelson@mountainlakemn. 1-4 pm. Follow cropping muscle & special interest vehicles. com. season—1850, 1930 & present. • Sounds of September Fundrais- Food & craft vendors. Info: Cruz Demonstrations of ag’s changes. ing Concert, Our Lady of Mount ‘IN Lake Crystal on Facebook. • Fall Fair, Farmamerica, 367 360th Pack a picnic. Info: 507-835-2052, Carmel Catholic Church, Easton, Ave, Waseca. Annual harvest fes- Facebook or farmamerica.org 2 pm. Performances by 5 vocal & • Car Hop & Shop Classic Car tival with demonstrations, food instrumental groups. Proceeds Cruise-In, downtown New Ulm, & activities. Info: 507-835-2052 Sat.-Sun., Sept. 9-10 benefit handicap accessibility 5-8 pm. All makes & models. or [email protected]. • Rock Bend Folk Festival, Minne- project. Info: 507-327-5357. Free. Info: [email protected] or sota Square Park, Hwy 169 So, newulm.com/visitors-commu- • McLeod For Tomorrow 5K Glow St. Peter, noon Sat. to 6 pm Sun. • MN Zoomobile, Minneopa nity/things-to-do/festivals/new- Run, Masonic/West River Park, Original arts & crafts by area folk State Park, 5 mi. W of Manka- ulm-car-hop-shop/. Les Kouba Dr., Hutchinson, artists; blues, bluegrass & jazz to on Hwys 68 & 169, 1-4 pm. 8-10:30 pm. Family-friendly music; food, fun. Free admission. 45-minute presentation with walk/run. Dress in glow apparel; Info: rockbend.org. live animals, biological artifacts, costume prizes. Fundraiser for storytelling & audience partic- Experience Counts. Real estate transactions can be stressful, and the paperwork mind-boggling. It doesn’t have to be. Our staff is professional, knowledgeable and committed to serving you, whether it’s for closing and title services or tax-deferred exchanges. Our dedicated customer service and competitive closing costs allow you to rest easy knowing it’s getting done and getting done right. Howard Connie Haugh Froehlich Qualified Intermediary for tax deferred §1031 exchanges Howard Haugh, Licensed Attorney since 1966 Connie Froehlich, Licensed Closer and Title Insurance Agent Kelsey Goettlicher, [email protected]

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54 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Thurs.-Sat., Sept. 14-16 • Night at the Museum, 2 N. • Women-Wine-Wonderful Fines Sun., Sept. 17 • Springfield Fall Citywide Garage Broadway, New Ulm, 5-8 pm. (Fashion Show), St. James, 5-8 • Snakes of the Minnesota River Sales. Info: springfieldmncham- Help support museum. Food & pm. Fashion show from local Valley at the Harkin Store, 66289 ber.org/event-calendar/. entertainment. Info: 507-233- stores & area boutiques. Food & Co. Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. 2616 or officemanager@brown- beverages. Proceeds to District Handle & learn about snakes Fri., Sept. 15 countyhistorymnusa.org. 840 Foundation. Info: 375-3333. from expert Tom Jessen. Info: • Henderson’s Music on Main, 507-354-8666 or harkinstore@ patio of Today’s Sweet Treats, • Glow in the Park for Camp • Leaves of Grass – Illuminated, mnhs.org. Henderson, 6:30-8:30 pm. Info: Sweet Life, Sibley Park, Mankato, Kresge Dance Studio, Gustavus 507-248-3177 or Facebook. 5:30-10:30 pm. Raises money for Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30 • Auto Restorers Car Show & Swap Camp Sweet Life Adventures. pm. Solo performance by Patrick Meet, Nicollet County Fair- Fri. & Sat., Sept. 15-16 Pre-party, meal & silent auction. Scully reveals spirit of poet Walt grounds, 400 Union St., St. Peter, • Hutchinson Arts & Crafts Kids’ K at sunset, 5K & 6K follow. Whitman. Info & cost: gustavus. 6 am-3 pm. 41st annual show, Festival, Library Square Park, 2 Info: www.campsweetlife.org or edu/theatre-dance. rain or shine. Info: 507-345-6541 Main St. S., Hutchinson. Crafters, Facebook. or clubs.hemmings.com/autore- artists & vendors; food vendors. Sat., Sept 16, 23 & 30 storers. Free admission. 10 am-6 pm Fri; • McLeod Co. Master Gardener • Music in the Plaza, South 9 am-4 pm Sat. Fall Plant Sale, Horticulture Front Plaza, Mankato, 6-9 pm. • Bridal Show, Verizon Wireless Bldg., McLeod Co. Fairgrounds, Different group each week. Info: Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, • Citywide Garage Sale, New Ulm. Hutchinson, 9-11 am. Fall bulbs, Facebook. Mankato, 10 am-4 pm. Fash- Info: 507-359-2911. perennials, houseplants. Info: ion show, wedding planning, 320-484-4334, ande9495@umn. Sat. & Sun., Sept. 16-17 vendors, DJ. Info: facebook.com/ Sat., Sept. 16 edu or facebook.com/McLeod- • Motorcycle & ATV Flat Track MankatoBridalShow/. • Circle the Lake Half Marathon, MasterGardeners/. Races, Flying Dutchmen Mo- 10K, & 5K, 3625 Millersburg torcycle Club, 20153 110th Av., • Emotions in Motion 5k Hutchin- Blvd W, Faribault, 9 am. Open • Nickle Dickle Day, City Square New Ulm. ¼ mile dirt track oval. son Walk for Life, McLeod Coun- to competitive racers, fami- Park, Waconia, 8 am-5 pm. Arts Info: 507-354-2306 or inquiry@ ty Fairgrounds, 840 Century Av. lies, dogs, kids, seniors; IPOD & crafts, library book sale, car & flyingdutchmenmotorcycleclub. SW, Hutchinson, 1-4 pm. Family friendly. Chip-timed; medals to truck show, duck races, 3-on-3 com. friendly 5k walk for suicide and all half marathon finishers. Info: basketball, kid zone, live music, mental health awareness. s 612-237-3338. food. Info: nickledickle.com. Food, resources & music. Info:

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 55 [email protected] Info: facebook.com/modenscha- starving-artist, 507-387-1008, or downtown Redwood Falls, 9 or save.donordrive.com. ufashionshow, 888-463-9856 or [email protected]. am-3 pm. Artisans, crafters, 507-233-4300. direct sales businesses, food Mon., Sept. 18 Fri.-Sun., Sept. 22-24 vendors, kids activities & free • Hillstrom Museum of Art fall • Boomers & Beyond Senior Expo, • 45th Annual Mahkato Pow entertainment stage. Info: red- show opening reception, St. Peter Community Center, 600 Wow, Land of Memories Park, woodfalls.org/events/2017-09/. Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Washington Ave., St. Peter, 2-5 100 Amos Owen Ln, Mankato. Peter, 7-9 pm. Selections from pm. Vendors, flu shots, health Annual traditional honoring • Harvest Fest, Minneopa State Hillstrom Museum of Art, GAC & hearing screenings, chair the 38 Dakota. With theme of Park, 5 mi. W of Mankato on & Perlman Teaching Museum, massages, refreshments, door reconciliation, visitors & partic- Hwys 68 & 169, 5-8 pm. Outdoor Carleton College. Free. Info: gus- prizes, musical entertainment. ipants, native & non-native, are fun—bonfire, hayrides, apple 071416 tavus.edu/finearts/hillstrom. Info: stpeterchamber.com/cal- welcome. Beautiful regalia of press, hot chocolate, candle-lit MD endar. dancers, traditional music, food hike into waterfalls gorge; may Tues., Sept. 19 & crafts. Dist. 77 Education Day bring own meat to grill. Info: • Alice Lind Play Reading Society, Thurs., Sept. 21 & Oct. 19 Fri. Info: 507-514-5088, 507-387- 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ John Lind House, 622 Center • Medicare Counseling, Commu- 3572 or mahkatowacipi.org. state.mn.us. Street, New Ulm, 7 pm. Reading nity Center, 600 N. German St., ‘Becket.’ Info & registration: New Ulm, 9 am. Information, • Fall Craft and Vendor Market, • Polka Party Extravaganza, State [email protected] counseling & one-to-one assis- River Hills Mall, mall hours. Small Street Theater, Center & State or 507-359-9990. tance for Medicare beneficiaries. businesses & crafters. Street, New Ulm, 1-5 pm. Music No apptmt needed; free. Info: by Sleepy Eye Concertina Club Wed., Sept. 20 & Oct. 18 507-354-3212 or newulmseniors. Fri., Sept-22 thru Tues., Oct. 31 & others. Benefit for State Street • Brown County Humane Society org. • Corn Maze, 14848 Hwy 7 East, Theater Capital Campaign. Info: Pet Adoption Day, Petco, 1901 Hutchinson. Three different 507-276-7890 or mbdomeier@ Madison Ave., Mankato, 3-6 pm. Fri., Sept. 22 challenges sprawling 12 acres. newulmtel.net. Info: 507-388-4755. • Starving Artist at the Temple, Appropriate for all ages (kids 10 Masonic Lodge, 309 S. 2nd St., & under must be accompanied • 30th Annual Waseca Marching Thurs., Sept. 21 Mankato, 8-11 pm. Benefit for by adult). Info: 320-587-2922 or Band Classic, Jr.-Sr. High School • Modenschau (Fashion Show), Twin Rivers Council for the Arts; [email protected]. Stadium, Waseca. 100-unit New Ulm Event Center, 301 local artists showcasing talent. parade (12:30) downtown, 20th St. S., New Ulm, 6:30 pm. Info & cost: twinriversarts.org/ Sat., Sept. 23 classic car cruise. Field show Fashion, music & entertainment. • Redwood Falls Fall Festival, competition 5 pm. Grand finale

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56 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 fireworks. Info: 507-835-3260, • Hilltop Happenings, Hilltop Hall, to grill. Info: 507-426-7840 or • Pumpkinfest, 63105 Fort Rd/CR 888-992-7322, or info@waseca- 206 First St. N., Montgomery, 4 [email protected]. 5, St. George, 11 am-3 pm. Fam- chamber.com. pm. Musical variety show. No ily fun—pumpkin decorating, admission—donation accepted • Kidtoberfest With The Arts Scarecrow Alley, Halloween Hair, • Indoor Garage Sale at Civic Cen- to defray costs; pizza sold at Center & NCHS, south of Ok- kiddie train rides, live music, ter, Brown County Fairgrounds, intermission. Info: bighonza. toberfest stage, St. Peter, 12-4 games lunch. Info: 507-233-0751, 1212 N. Franklin St., New Ulm. com/hilltop-hall/. pm. Kids & adults can enjoy 507-233-0767 or nuacs.com. Info: 507-359-8344 or 507-359- free straw bale bowling, chalk 8347. • Historic Hutchinson Oakland mural-drawing, pumpkin tic- • Fall Colors Canoe Trip, Ney Cemetery Living History Tour, tac-toe, other games and crafts. Nature Center, 28238 Nature 071416 • Minneopa Park Bus Tour, from Oakland Cemetery, Hutchinson, Info: google.com/calendar/ Center Ln., Henderson, 1-4:30 New Ulm to park, 10:30 am- 12-1:30 pm. No charge, but event?eid=cG81ajN1. pm. Minnesota River paddle; all MD 3:30 pm. Visit Minneopa Falls, donations appreciated. Info: equipment provided. Limit of Seppmann Mill & Bison Range. 320-587-5064. • Annual Minneopa Seed Sorting, 20 participants. Reservations Sponsored by New Ulm Public Minneopa State Park, 5 mi. W required. Info: 507-357-8580 or Library. Info & registration: 507- Mon., Sept. 25 of Mankato on Hwys 68 & 169, [email protected]. 359-8334. • Gustavus Faculty Recital, Bjor- 12:30-pm. Collect, sort & scatter ling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adol- seeds of wild flowers and grass- Tues.-Wed., Oct. 3-4 • Minnesota State Rabbit phus College, St. Peter, 7:30 pm. es to restore native plants. Info: • Nobel Conference 53, Lund Breeders Show, Steele Co. By Rolf Erdahl, string bass. Free. 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ Arena & Lund Center, Gustavus Fairgrounds, 1525 Elm Ave S, Info: gustavus.edu/finearts. state.mn.us. Adolphus College, St. Peter. Info: Owatonna. Show & convention. 507-933-7520 or marketing@ Awards for open & youth. Info: Fri., Sept. 29 • Show Your Love for MN, gustavus.edu. 507-456-5801. • CASTLE Wanna Have Fun Hutchinson Mall, 10 am-6 pm. Luncheon, New Ulm Country Gifts, products & crafts. Thurs., Oct. 5 • Oktoberfest Bier on Belgrade, Club, 1 Golf Drive, New Ulm, • Girls Night Out, St. Peter busi- 301 Belgrade Ave N, Lower No. 11:30 am-1 pm. Optional salad • Fall Colors Hike, Ney Nature nesses, 5-8 pm. Visit business- Mankato, 2-8 pm. Activities, lunch, info on Fair Trade & new Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln., es, refreshments, discounts, food, live music, Bier sampling fair trade store; open to all. Info: Henderson, 10 am. Explore fall giveaways, demonstrations, from local & world-renowned newulmseniors.org/castle.html colors & local wildlife on trails. samples. Info: Facebook. breweries. Ceremonial first beer or [email protected]. All ages. Info & reservations with city officials, bean bag toss (required): 507-357-8580 or Thurs. & Sat., Oct. 5 & 7 & keg bowling. Info: 507-388- Fri.-Sat., Sept. 29-30 [email protected]. • Tours of Manufacturing, 1062. • Oktoberfest, downtown St. New Ulm, 9 am-3 pm. Public Peter. 4-11 pm Fri, 1-11 pm Sat. • Gustavus Faculty Recital, Bjor- encouraged to attend free • Encore! An Alumni Dance Cel- Beer garden, live music. Info: ling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adol- tours of manufacturers (to be ebration, Bjorling Recital Hall, stpeterchamber.com/Oktober- phus College, St. Peter, 7:30 pm. announced). No RSVP needed. Gustavus Adolphus College, St. fest. By Justin Knoepfel, viola. Free. Info: 507-233-4300, chamber@ Peter, 2:30 pm. Alumni danc- Info: gustavus.edu/finearts. newulm.com or newulm.com. ers from GAC dance program. Sat., Sept. 30 Free. Info: gustavus.edu/the- • Lions Strides Diabetes Walk, Sun., Oct. 1 Fri.-Sat., Oct. 6-7 & Oct. 13-14 atre-dance. Civic Center, 1212 N Franklin St, • Sheep, Wool & Quilts at the • 36th Annual Oktoberfest, New Ulm, 8-10 am. 1 or 2 mi. Harkin Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, downtown, Best Western Plus, Sun., Sept. 24 walk around fairgrounds on New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Displays of Morgan Creek Vineyards & • Horses, Horseshoes, Leather sidewalks. Free will donations wool, spinning wheel, carders, Schell’s Brewery. Modeled after & Rope at Harkin Store, 66289 to find a cure for diabetes. Info: etc. Also items made from an- celebrations in Munich. German Co. Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. 507-354-8940, 612-501-2719, gora rabbits. Info: 507-354-8666 (and American) food, local beer Leatherworker Dan Cochran [email protected] or lions- or [email protected]. & wine, games, horse-drawn & rope maker Thane French clubofnewulm.org. trolley rides, plus parade each will demonstrate crafts. Info: • Fall Harvest Windsor Pork Sat. Info: 507-233-4300 or info@ 507-354-8666 or harkinstore@ • Bottom Road Biathlon, Caswell Chop Dinner, American Legion, newulm.com. mnhs.org. Sports, 1875 Howard Dr., No. Gaylord, 11 am-1 pm. Put on Mankato, 9 am. 3.5 mi kayak trip by St. John's Lutheran Church Sat., Oct. 7 • Prairie Seed Collection, Minneo- down Blue Earth Riv. followed (Mountville). Country store, • Free Guided Sculpture Walk pa State Park, 5 mi. W of Manka- by 7.5 mi bike. Info: caswell- Usborne Books fundraiser. Info: Tour, Inter-Government Center, to on Hwys 68 & 169, 12:30-2 sports.com/bottomroadbiath- 507-237-2619 or ordellaknish@ Mankato, 10 Civic Center Plaza, pm. Help with park’s annual lon or 507-625-4141. hotmail.com. Mankato, 10 am. Tour 2017 seed collection; no experience CityArt Walking Sculptures, by necessary. Register with Harry • Fall Festival, Fort Ridgely State • New Ulm Area Wedding Show, artists across U.S. Info: face- Meyering Center at aness@har- Park, 72404 Co. Rd. 30, Fairfax, 1212 N Franklin St, New Ulm. book.com/CityArtMankato/. rymeyeringcenter.org to be part 5-8 pm. Old-fashioned outdoor See variety of unique reception of event. Info: 507-384-8890 or fun—bonfire, kids’ activities, venues, florists, caterers, bridal • 17th Annual PAWS Walk, Mill [email protected]. hiking, cemetery tours, hot shops. Info: 888-463-9856 or Pond & Riverside Park, 227 S chocolate; may bring own meat 507-233-4300. Front Street, St. Peter, 9:30 am. s PAWS provides care & shel-

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 57 ter until adoptive homes can levee walk, community picnic, Office, 201 N Broad St., Ste 102, [email protected]. be found; proceeds to care of music, food, sock hop; home- Mankato, 3:30-5:30 pm. Navigate animals. Info: 507-931-1550 or coming snake dance & bonfire. Medicare maze to choose plan • Hermann 5K Run/Walk, Recre- Facebook. Worship 11:15 am Sun. Info: options. Limited class size. Info: ation Center, New Ulm. Hermann eye of the tiger on Facebook, 800-333-2433. Tot Trot 8:30 am, 5k Run/Walk 9 • Fall Festival, Ney Nature Center, 507-248-3818, 612-244-8884 or am. Info & registration: ci.new- 28238 Nature Center Ln., Hen- [email protected]. Fri.-Sun., Oct. 13-15 ulm.mn.us, 507-359-8347 or derson. Trail runs, pancake lunch, • Local Makers Market, River Hills [email protected]. prairie maze, tractor wagon Sun., Oct. 8 Mall, 1850 Adams St., Mankato. mn.us. rides, petting zoo. Info: 507-357- • Preparing for Winter at the Har- Local crafters, artisans, de- 8580 or [email protected]. kin Store, 66289 Co. Hwy 21, New signers & entrepreneurs. Info: Sun., Oct. 15 Ulm, 1-4 pm. Displays of equip- [email protected] or 952- • West Newton Post Office • Cambria Crush, Morgan Creek ment used for canning, drying, 45I1-8849. program at Harkin Store, 66289 Vineyards, 23707 478th Ave, candle-making, soap-making, Co. Hwy 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. New Ulm. Harvest festival with cutting firewood. Info: 507-354- Sat., Oct. 14 Learn how postal service worked competitive grape stomping, 8666 or [email protected]. • Maker Fair Minnesota, Nicol- in 1870s. Info: 507-354-8666 or dancing. Costumes optional. let County Fairgrounds, 400 [email protected]. Info: morgancreekvineyards. • Henderson’s Music on Main, W Union St, St. Peter, 9 am-3 com, 507-947-3547 or martimcv@ patio of Today’s Sweet Treats, pm. Handcrafted bazaar, food, Tues., Oct. 17 aol.com. Henderson, 1:20-3:30 pm. Info: goodie bags, make & take crafts, • Alice Lind Play Reading Society, 507-248-3177 or Facebook. kids’ activities. Info: http://www. John Lind House, 622 Center • 5K Color Run, Lake Crystal Area makerfairmn.com. Street, New Ulm, 7 pm. Reading Recreation Center, 621 W Nathan • Mankato River Ramble, Land of ‘The Subject Was Roses.’ Info & St, Lake Crystal, 9:30-11:30 Memories Park, 100 Amos Owen • 42nd Annual Craft Fair & Garage registration: execdir@statestreet- am. Info: zapevent.com/reg/ Ln., Mankato, 7 am-3 pm. 12, 26, Sale, School Sisters of Notre newulm.org or 507-359-9990. event/14840. 42 or 50-mi. bike routes. Info: Dame, 170 Good Counsel Dr., 952-882-3180 or info@bikemn. Mankato, 8:30 am-2 pm. Apple Thurs., Oct. 19 Sat.-Sun., Oct. 7-8 org. Pie Café, garage sale, wood • Senior Expo, 901 E Ferry St, Le • Henderson Heritage Days, carving studio, ceramic haven. Sueur. Fun, education & enter- downtown Henderson. Celebrat- Tues., Oct. 10 Proceeds benefit School Sisters tainment for senior citizens. Info: ing history of Henderson High • Free Medicare Educational of Notre Dame Central Pacific lesueurchamber.org. School. Tours of city schools, 5K Sessions (Part 2), MNRAAA Province. Info: 507-389-4231 or

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• Area Farmer's Markets • Arlington Farmers Market, • Hutchinson Farmers Market, • Morton Farmers Market, • Olivia Farmers Market, city Arlington Comm. Center Parking open air pavilion at 25 Adams city hall parking lot, Hwy 19 parking lot, 9th St. & Fairview. Lot, 204 Shamrock Dr.. Jun. 14- St. SE. Ginger & cultivated downtown. Garden fresh fruits & Produce, fresh breads, baked Sept. 25, Mon. 4-6:30 pm. mushrooms, honey & maple vegetables, home baked goods. goods, canned & pickled items, syrup, fresh herbs, herbal teas, Mid Jun.-fall; times vary. Info: crafts, jams, jellies, eggs, chick- • Buffalo Lake Farm & Flea baked goods & candies, potted 507-697-6912. ens, flowers. Jul. 13-Oct., Thur. Market, city park on Hwy 212. peonies, cut flowers, preserves, 1:30-5:30 pm. Info: 320-522-1043. Garden fresh fruits & vegetables, crafts, meats & soaps, scrubs & • New Ulm Farmers Market, flowers, crafts, mittens, breads, lotions. May 20-Oct. 28, Wed. Cash Wise Foods Parking Lot, • Redwood Falls Farmers pies, baked goods. Jun. 10-fall, 2:30-5:30 pm & Sat. 8 am-noon. 1220 Westridge Rd. Thurs. Market, corner of E. Bridge St. Sat. 8 am-noon. Info: 320-389- Info: FB @hutchinsonfarmers- 2:30-5:30, Jun. 15-Sept.; Sat., 9 (Hwys 71 & 19) and S. Washing- 1006. market, 320-234-5652 or jpage@ am-noon, June 24-Oct. 7. Info: ton St. Garden produce, canned ci.hutchinson.mn.us. 507-359-2921. & baked goods, honey, arts & • Fairfax Farmers Market, 1st St., crafts. July 11 thr Oct. 17. Tues. SE of Hwy 19. Garden fresh pro- • Lake Crystal Farmers Market, • North Mankato Farmers 2-6 pm, Sat. 9 am-noon. duce, breads, baked goods, sea- Collis C-Store parking lot. Fresh Market, Lor Ray lot, Messiah sonal flowers. Mid June-Sept., produce, baked goods, honey, Lutheran Church, 1706 Lee Blvd. • St. Peter Farmers Market, Tue. 4 pm. Info: 507-426-7281. more. Fri., 2:30-5:30 pm, Jul. 7 Craft & food vendors. Mon. 3:30- downtown on Minnesota Ave. thru Oct. Info: 507-304-2759 or 6:30 pm, June 12-Sept. Locally grown vegetables, baked • Gaylord Farmers Market, 218-330-4974. goods. Jul.-Oct., Tue. 3-6 pm & downtown, 5th & Main Ave. Veg- • New Prague Farmers Mar- Sat. 9 am-noon. Info: 507-420- etables (beans, carrots, cucum- • Madelia Farmer’s Market, ket, East Town Plaza parking 7684 or stpfarmersmarket@ bers, onions, peppers, potatoes, Madelia Community Hospital & lot. Fruits, vegetables, baked gmail.com. sweet corn, tomatoes); strawber- Clinic, 121 Drew Ave. SE. Produce products, flowers, honey, jelly, ries, raspberries, melons, apples, from local gardeners & farms. herbs, annuals, perennials. Mid • Wells Farmers Market, munic- pumpkins, squash, gourds; Wed., 3:30-6 pm, Jun. 7-Sept. 20. May-Oct., Sat. 9 am-noon. Mid ipal parking lot on S. Broadway. honey, preserves & baked Info: mchospital.org/calendar/ Jun.-Oct., Wed. 3-6 pm. Info: 952- Locally gorwn fruits & vegeta- goods. Jun.-Oct., Wed. 4-6 pm in farmers-market. 758-1955 or ajbisek@bevcomm. bles. Jul.-Oct., Wed. 4-6 pm & conjunction with Music on Main. net. Sat. 9 am-noon. Info: 507-553- Info: 507-232-3497. • Madison Lake Farmer’s Mar- 6450, [email protected] or ket, 400 Main St. May to Oct., wellsareachamber.com. • Glencoe Area Farmers Market, Sat. 9 am-12 pm. Info: ci.madi- 1107 11th St., adjacent to historic son-lake.mn.us/. City Center building. Fruits & vegetables, flowers, herbs, • Mankato Farmers Market, Best baked goods, canning, crafts. Buy parking lot, 1895 Adams St. Mid-Jun.-Oct., Thurs. 3-6 pm. Fresh local produce, sustainably Info: 320-864-3650, sally@glen- raised meat, bedding plants, coechamber.com or glencoe- cut flowers, eggs, honey, baked chamber.com. goods, berries, herbs, preserves, soap, lotions, hand-sewn items, • Hector Farmers Market, junc- woodcrafts. Early May-end of tion Hwy 212 & Cty Rd 4 (SCGE Oct., Sat. 8 am-noon; Tue. & Thur. C-Store). Garden fresh fruits & 3:30-6 pm. Info: 507-382-9337, vegetables, canned & baked mankatofarmersmarket@gmail. goods. Jul.-fall, Wed. 3-6 pm. com or mankatofarmersmarket. Info: 320-848-2195. com. 066514

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 59 075493 IF A PICTURE IS WORTH 1,000 WORDS... What Does Yours Say?

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059151 SEPTEMBER IS THYROID AWARENESS MONTH A Survivor’s Story

By Robyn James without even knowing it. I was misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia, idiopathic hypersomnia, chronic pain syndrome, chronic fatigue I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and SURVIVOR. As a syndrome and many other conditions. My symptoms included: 33-year-old with a demanding job, loving husband, and two amazing fatigue, weight gain, memory loss, comprehension and focus issues, children, I am determined not to let cancer win! depression, hair loss, inability to warm up, menstruation problems, April 15, 2016 is the day I can pinpoint that started the downward irritability, a puffy face and pale skin, dizziness, heart palpitations, spiral towards my diagnosis of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and more. I always felt that and Thyroid Cancer. I’m an accountant, so naturally something had to be this was a very stressful time of year for me. I connecting all my hadn’t felt right since I woke up that morning. symptoms; I couldn’t I was having chest pains and other symptoms possibly be “lucky” that were very startling. I went to the ER and was enough to have all these monitored and treated for a minor heart attack at illnesses randomly with the age of 32. Even though the EKG was normal, no connection from one this was the diagnosis that “made the most sense to the other. for my symptoms.” I took it easy for a few weeks, I had hit rock bottom then got back in to my daily running routine, but in early 2013 and took within one month I had lost all drive and energy it upon myself to be to keep up with my routine. Most days I hardly well after medications had enough energy to get out of bed, but I did my weren’t helping me get best to function every day. Simply getting out of any relief. I started eating bed required maximum effort. Before long I was better and exercising, gaining weight at a very rapid pace – 60 pounds and from 2013-2015 I gained in less than 6 months. I was constantly cold lost 80 pounds and 15% to the bone and was always tired. In the blink of an body fat. I was in the eye I didn’t recognize myself anymore and had no best shape of my life, enjoyment in life. Worst of all, I was ashamed. I felt running 4-5 miles a day, guilty. I felt like a failure. several days a week, and After suffering for several months, my husband hitting the gym on the convinced me to go back to the doctor. He ran days in between. All my a gamut of tests and everything was normal. I symptoms were gone! was frustrated, still having no explanation for Or so I thought. I now my symptoms. Determined for a better answer, know that my disease I talked with my doctor about all my symptoms for was just in remission and the past several years. He ended up testing me for would soon rear its ugly Hashimoto’s Disease, an autoimmune disease that head, ultimately leading to attacks your thyroid. A simple blood test was all that was needed to my cancer diagnosis. diagnose this, and sure enough, my antibodies were elevated and I Unfortunately, my story of years of struggles and symptoms is was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s. I was referred to an endocrinologist similar for many patients of thyroid disease. The symptoms are often for treatment. I met with her on March 31 of this year. Initially she misdiagnosed and thyroid cancer is deemed “the good cancer,” but prescribed some medication and was going to send me on my way. in reality there is no “good cancer,” and if there was, this certainly I demanded more answers. I still wasn’t convinced this was the answer is not it. All the symptoms I suffered from before diagnosis, will not to all my problems, but she didn’t feel any lumps, my thyroid wasn’t go away. I will live with them for the rest of my life. Considering all enlarged, and there were no other indicators that something else was the medications, blood checks, and ultrasounds I’ll have every 6-12 amiss.Reluctantly, she ordered an ultrasound. On April 7 I had the months for the rest of my life, I would say the only “good” thing is ultrasound, and within hours she called me. There was a suspicious that all of this is making me a stronger person. I’ve been very vocal nodule and I needed a biopsy. Since that moment, I knew I had about my story from the moment I was diagnosed, and believe my cancer. Even though the odds were less than 3%, I just knew. I had the purpose is to be the voice of thyroid awareness for so many who biopsy on April 13 and on April 17 my intuition was confirmed. I had suffer in silence. I am honored to share my story – if I’ve helped even papillary carcinoma. I had surgery on May 25 to remove my thyroid one person, then my purpose has been served. I urge both men and and several lymph nodes. women to talk openly with their doctor about any symptoms they have. When caught early, thyroid cancer has a cure rate of over 97%! Hindsight is 20/20, and knowing what I know now, I was suffering Don’t wait. Don’t suffer. Know the symptoms and check your neck. from thyroid disease, and likely thyroid cancer, for six or seven years Part 2 of Robyn’s story will appear in our October Wellness issue. 62 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Be Well What exactly is Hashimoto’s disease? Your thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped organ enough, other symptoms may occur, including: • Swallowing difficulty located on the front of your neck. Its main function • Hoarseness is to produce a thyroid hormone that helps • Breathing problems regulate your metabolism. Hypothyroidism occurs WHY YOU SHOULD SEEK CARE when a person has a decrease in their thyroid If you have any of the above symptoms, your doctor may recommend function. Hashimoto Thyroditis, also known as you undergo a thyroid function testing and sometimes ultrasound to evaluate your thyroid gland and nodule size. In some cases, a Hashimoto’s disease, is the most common cause of rapidly enlarging thyroid gland can be related to thyroid lymphoma, hypothyroidism in the United States. which is an uncommon yet highly treatable form of thyroid cancer. Furthermore, Hashimoto’s disease can also be associated with other Hashimoto’s disease causes chronic inflammation of the thyroid, as autoimmune disorders, such as: antibodies form attacking your thyroid cells due to the changes to • Type 1 Diabetes your immune mechanisms. • Vitiligo RISK FACTORS •Gluten sensitivity Stress, infections, certain medications, and environmental and • Rheumatoid arthritis genetic factors are all thought to be triggers of Hashimoto’s disease. • Addison’s disease or pernicious anemia Hashimoto’s disease is also thought to be more common in females DIAGNOSIS compared to males and is mostly seen between the ages of 30 and 50, Hashimoto’s disease is generally diagnosed using laboratory testing. with incidence increasing as you age. Decreased thyroid function and increased thyroid antibody levels SYMPTOMS OF HASHIMOTO’S DISEASE (thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies) are usually In some cases, people may not notice the signs or symptoms of adequate to establish a diagnosis. Hashimoto’s disease, as thyroid function can be normal. In some TREATMENT rare cases, thyroid function may be increased. However, in most Treatment for Hashimoto’s disease often consists of thyroid hormone cases, a decrease in thyroid hormone production results in chronic replacement, using a medication called levothyroxine. Levothyroxine inflammation. This can cause the following symptoms: is generally dosed based on the patient’s weight. It’s very important to • Fatigue make sure you follow directions while using medication of this nature, • Weight gain as it is recommended levothyroxine be taken on an empty stomach • Constipation 30-60 minutes before eating. After starting on medication, thyroid • Dry skin hormone testing needs to be repeated in six to eight weeks for dose • Hair loss adjustment, with the goal of returning your thyroid hormone level to a • Cold intolerance normal range. • Depression • Menstrual irregularity Make sure to speak to your primary medical care • Joint pain and muscle cramps provider if you have any questions. They can provide answers to help keep you and your PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH HASHIMOTO’S DISEASE thyroid healthy. Enlargement of the thyroid gland, also known as a goiter, can happen in patients with Hashimoto’s disease. Most of the time, the goiter does Sakine Sever, M.D., not cause pain. Additionally, it’s not uncommon to see thyroid nodules endocrinologist or abnormal growth of thyroid cells forming lumps in patients with Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato. Hashimoto’s disease. When thyroid nodules or a goiter become big

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 65 MONEY TALKS How to Bear Rising Auto Insurance Premiums

auto insurance is a very competitive business. It pays to shop around. If you haven’t shopped around for five or more years, I wouldn’t be surprised if you could cut your costs by 10% or more. Even if you’ve bundled your homeowners and auto coverage with the same insurer I still recommend shopping around. You may find that the savings from moving your auto insurance are bigger than the value of the discount you get for having bundled coverage. RAISE YOUR DEDUCTIBLE. A $250 or $500 deductible is too low. by Suze Orman I want you to have at least a $1,000 deductible. For two reasons. Photo by First, when you have a low deductible, it can tempt you to make R. Trachtenberg claims for small issues. That can end up backfiring on you because the more claims you make, the more likely it is that your premium ow gas prices coupled with a continuing-to-improve economy will be increased at your next renewal, or you could be denied is not necessarily good news for your auto insurance. As the coverage completely. The other reason is that when you have a higher number of miles driven rises—it is up more than 6% over the deductible you might be able to save 5% to 10% on your premium past two years-so too do accidents. And then there is the very cost. Of course, you are to only do this if you have enough money in Lscary fact that distracted driving is also causing more accidents. your emergency savings fund to cover repairs of $1,000 or so. That explains why auto insurance premiums have been rising. If you GRAB A LOW MILEAGE DISCOUNT. If you don’t have long are hit with a 5% to 10% hike when your next bill arrives, consider commutes, or your family has one car that is mostly for carpools and these steps to save money without skimping on coverage. local runs, your insurer may give you a discount for annual mileage below 10,000 miles. SHOP AROUND. You’re probably like most people: The renewal comes and you see it’s up but you just shrug and pay it. Realize that KEEP YOUR CREDIT SCORE HIGH. In most states a version of your if you’ve been doing that for a few years you are likely paying more credit score can be used to determine your premium. That’s just one than you need to. As you should guess from all the television ads, more reason to take the steps to build a great credit score. RVW • OWN IT • Replace Infinity CLEAN, Windows SIMPLE ANDby MarvinWORRY-FREE... in YourLEAFAWAY Home for $84 GUTTER a Month PROTECTION! (Based on 5 windows white/white, double hung)

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-                                    

   

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he joys of working for yourself or running a business out of popular choice right your home are abundant. You can choose your schedule to now is a Limited fit your lifestyle—the early birds are working before the rest Liability Company of us are out of bed, and the night owls just finished work (LLC). An LLC can Tfor the day. You can enjoy the flexibility of working from the lake in provide legal and the summer and the mountains in the winter. Some small businesses asset protection, are noticeable, you drive by several every day, and others may be as it is considered entirely internet-based and are just a click away. No matter the type a separate entity or location of your small business, the work is completed your way from you as the and on your terms, just the way you’ve always wanted it. owner. Contact your legal advisor for more With so many reasons and benefits to working for yourself, more details, or visit www. and more small businesses open every day. It takes hard work, sba.gov/starting-business/ organization, and planning to keep your dream running smoothly. choose-your-business- The biggest item that needs to be addressed with any business is structure for more information. that pesky paperwork, whether it’s applying for licenses and permits, For tax purposes, if you are the only opening a banking account, getting the proper insurance coverage, member of the LLC, you can report the business or seeking legal and tax advice – it all needs to be done right so you activity directly on your individual income tax return – no separate can continue to enjoy all the advantages of owning and operating tax return needs to be filed. When there are two or more members, your small business. Here are some commonly asked questions when a Partnership or S Corporation return needs to be filed. You should starting a new business: always consult an experienced tax advisor before making a decision. Q: How should my business be structured for legal and tax purposes? Q: Can I use my personal checking and credit card accounts to or I want my spouse/friend to be a part owner, how does that work? operate my small business? A: There are several choices when it comes to entity selection. A A: While it is possible, it certainly is not recommended. It is very important to operate your small or part-time business as any other “regular” business would operate. Combining personal and business funds makes recordkeeping for tax purposes more complicated. Also, in the event of a federal or state tax audit, the government might be more inclined to deny certain deductions, or even classify the business as a “hobby,” which could result in losses from the business being denied. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you use separate business accounts in the name of the business. Q: I didn’t make much last year. Do I have to file and report the income or loss from my small business? A: Yes. Even if your business only had a small profit, you must report Every step of the way. it. If you had a loss for the year, you will want to report that as well. It’s not the overall net profit or loss for the year that is the deciding factor, n Local and Long Distance Moves if you’re in business, you must report all income and expenses on the n Climate Controlled Warehouse proper tax forms. n Self Storage Units n Storage Pods There are many questions that small business owners have and must n Packing and Unpacking Services answer when they start a new business. The key is to be informed. Starting a business is a big decision, but one that can come with many rewards. Seek out experienced legal and tax advice, the investment in their services will be well worth 120 Years Kato Moving it as your business grows and expands. in Business! & Storage Marilyn J. Pierce, CPA 418 Poplar St., QuickBooks ProAdvisor® Downtown Mankato MD Advisors Group 507.388.9329 or 800.228.8583 055219

68 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Dress in C&S Supply has a great in-stock selection of quality Koi uniforms & footwear. Special orders also Comfort available at no extra charge. We work in also carry medical accessories. Don’t forget us for your spring with lawn & garden needs!

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New Ulm Area Wedding tShow t Fall In Love Sunday, October 1, 2017 New Ulm Civic Center, 11AM-2pm Come see the variety of unique reception venues, florists, caterers, bridal shops and more for your one-of-a-kind wedding in Southern Minnesota. Free Admission! t Fall in Love with New Ulm as your Wedding Destination www.newulmweddings.com @newulmweddingshow Hosted by the New Ulm Business & Retail AssociationRIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 69 060802 Photo: Blessings Photography

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70 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Look Good, Feel Good, You’ve worked hard to achieve your body goals. Let’s maintain those results!

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72 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 LET US INSPIRE YOU.

Hello my name is Brenda. I have had a challenge with weight for as long as I can remember. I was diagnosed with diabetes about 5 years ago and have had some complications with it. I tried the proti diet and I have successfully lost 45 pounds so far and 31inches. I no longer have aches and pains. I no longer take metformin my diabetic medication, I have tons of energy. My back pain is gone. I even get told that I look like a teenager again. I feel amazing and I owe it all to the coaching of Tina McClain. She has inspired me and held me accountable to reach my monthly goals. She has helped me to overcome bad habits and make good life style changes. I am thankful for this product and for Inspire Health and Wellness that has given me a new life. Brenda S. - Mankato, MN

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 77 “Popular: The Power of Likability in a Status-Obsessed World”

Reads by Mitch Prinstein

one of the other kids like you. They don’t include you in anything; in fact, they often just plain ignore you, and some even pick on you. You don’t understand why this is, but there isn’t much you can do: quitting your job is not an option. In “Popular” by Mitch Prinstein, you’ll see why being Top NDog matters, after all these years. Who remembers recess? You do, of course; you ran wild, swung, jumped, and screamed yourself hoarse in every one of them. And then – wham! – came teenagerhood, where you, Mean Girls, jocks, bullies, and the desperate stopped playing. Instead, you had two options: you clawed your way popular, or you stood by watching others do it. It kinda sounds like your workplace, doesn’t it? Why is popularity still so important? Says Prinstein, there’s “more than one type of popularity,” and there’s a difference between popularity and likeability. Popular people have status but are often loathed. Likeable people are, well, likeable. Surprisingly, where you sat on the spectrum in your youth still affects your adult decisions, relationships, family, even your income. According to researchers, most children fall into one of four categories: Accepted (the kids most kids like); Neglected (children that are basically ignored); Rejected (those actively avoided); and Controversial (a category of extreme like-dislike). Kids know instantly who’s popular and who’s not, they know where others lie within the categories, and they’ll sort one another out in short order. Adults aren’t much different. We all know somebody at work who fits in each of those categories, and you may even have an inkling about where you fit. We need to be liked – it’s a matter of evolution – but can popularity be a problem? Yes: some people will go too far for status, to the point of violence and bullying. Others may be allowed too much status and power (as in the case of celebrities). Popularity can also be negatively addicting because we believe it might make us happy. It won’t. But one thing’s for sure: “following the example of likable people might just change our lives.” Oh, how “Popular” is going to make you squirm. Whether you were cheerleader, class leader, or the Last Kid Picked, reading it will whisk you back to high school with all its attendant issues and feelings. And maybe that’s the point: author Mitch Prinstein makes us want to look inward to explain why we’re always invited for Happy Hour (or not), and why co-workers cheer or groan at certain names on team projects. The squirm comes, maybe, from embarrassment or chagrin, and the realization that “We never really left high school at all” still bothers us. Fortunately, there are things we can do to change our likeability, and to begin to atone for any meanness. This is an excellent book for anyone who wants to understand what happened in their childhood or that of their kids, or for anyone who wants to be more accepted. “Popular” is a good book for kids like you. Terri Schlichenmeyer The Bookworm Sez

78 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 WHAT NEXT? The black eye of the beholder By Lori Mathiowetz Creativity is a fickle lady to court. As soon as you think you’ve fallen No, seriously, I’m asking… what happens? Because, thus far, Google has into her good graces, she finds a way to snatch the potential from your nothing helpful to offer me. Going for a walk, reading a book, relaxing inspiration and pull the rug out from underneath you. You start, and in a hot bath, going to a yoga class and thinking happy thoughts all did stop, and start, and stop a project, wracked by the self-doubt she’s zilch for me. No creative potential. Nada. placed square in your frontal lobe, causing you to ask the question, As I’ve wallowed in my creativity rut, I’ve entertained the notion that “Why bother? I suck anyway.” To make matters worse, what you once maybe I’m all washed up. Perhaps the belief that creativity dies after age enjoyed doing no longer feels good. So your art changes; well, actually, 27 is true. Pablo Picasso is quoted as saying, “Every child is an artist. The it grows! But no one sees it that way. They ask condescendingly, “What problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” I guess being a grown- changed? Why aren’t you doing what you’re already good at?” or my up murdered my ingenuity. Que sera, sera. personal favorite, “So-and-so totally sold out!” As if artists don’t have it hard enough already just having to coexist with their wicked brain, But that didn’t quite feel right either, and I couldn’t accept it. Why can’t they’re also expected to hold the approval of others as the peak and my art mature? Why can’t I do different things than I used to? And most summit of why they create; all the while fearing the death blow of being importantly, why can’t I suck for a bit while I try out new stuff!? labeled a “sell out.” I call BS. The answer of course is, I can. I just have to choose to. So with sheer OK, phew. That felt good to get off my chest. Thanks for letting me force of will, I have chosen to wallow HARD in my creativity rut! And in get on my soap box and be melodramatic for a hot minute. You see, that place, I create sucky art. I know it sucks. Everyone around me knows my mind is an incredibly temperamental thing. I bet yours is too. The it sucks. But guess what: I’m creating! And for better or for worse, I have perfect combination of people, places, music, mood, environment, to place my faith in fickle lady creativity and trust that on the other side etc., brings you what? Happiness, of course! We are at our best of my suckage, lies better, more mature art that creatively when our mind is immersed in inspiring stimuli. Suffering and persistence will carry me to. So I persist. melancholy can of course be inspiring as well. Though I would argue that it takes coming out of the dark corners of our mind before we can After all, they say that at the moment most of put our experiences of suffering on paper and capture them artistically. us give up, we’re on the brink of an amazing breakthrough unlike any we’ve had before. But what happens when we are stuck in a creative rut? When no matter how hard we work at eeking out time for the hobbies that typically Man, is persistence a B* though. RVW make our heart sing, we come up empty-handed with nothing to show? Hayden’s Furniture & Floorcovering We sell quality for less. Just ask your neighbor.

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Kara Pahl Ag & Consumer Lender TIDY TIGHTWADS Not Your Average Back to School Tips Back to school can quickly drain the family budget, particularly those with multiple children. It’s important kids have required supplies and the confidence they need as they return to the classroom. Balancing needs with flashy store displays and tempting “sales” can be tricky.

As the kids get older their preferences and tastes come into play. When they were younger, sensible socks and plain notebooks were just fine. Now, they want what they perceive as the trend. Being sensible and thrifty doesn’t always mean sacrifice, but it does require planning and patience. Here are some of our most thrifty tips to help you please the kids and stretch your dollars! TIP 1: In most cases, the first day of school still feels like summer. Many older schools lack air conditioning, making classrooms warm. I recommend kids wear their favorite summer outfits, at least until the weather changes. This gives you more time to shop deals for new clothes! TIP 6: Always make kids try on items for size, and don’t guess. You don’t TIP 2: Watch your sales closely. Some items are on sale really early, then want to pass up an excellent winter coat sale, only to find out that the go up in price. Then, after school starts prices will drop again. sleeves are three inches too short later. TIP 3: Wait to purchase trendy items until kids are certain what the TIP 7: Having new items to go to school is important for kids, but it “cool” item is; that way you’re not stuck with what they thought was usually only takes a couple key pieces. Kids don’t need an entire new going to be the “must have” item. wardrobe. Encourage them to use what already fits and is perfectly fine, by mixing and matching with a new item. Be open to hand-me-downs. TIP 4: Save receipts for two reasons. First, if you need to return items Accepting a nice, used winter coat from a friend is perfect for sledding or bring them back to the store for a sales price refund, you’ll need a and weekend play, and will extend the lifetime of their favorite (newer) receipt. Second, many required school supplies are a tax deduction and winter coat. your receipts should go into your tax file to discuss with your accountant at the end of the year. TIP 8: Don’t assume it’s cheaper by shopping online or out of town. Put some effort in to checking around, and be patient. Check with your local TIP 5: If you have any type of supplemental insurance, check to see if stores for specials. When you can save money on gas, shipping, eating your back-to-school wellness check-up entitles you to a payment; some out, and other tempting things to spend money on, you save even more. do. TIP 9: Be careful with coupons. If it’s a great deal on something you need or plan to buy anyway, great. If you don’t need it and had no intention of buying it before you saw the coupon, skip it. Unless it is free, you’re spending money on something you don’t need rather than DONATIONS ACCEPTED 7 DAYS A WEEK. saving money. Furniture Pickup Available. TIP 10: Borrow bigger ticket items that will only be used briefly. An expensive calculator is a good example of something that you can borrow from a friend or possibly even from the school. Otherwise, explore splitting the cost with a couple other families AGAIN Thrift with kids coming right after you, and pass the & More item along. The more creative you get, the more you can 706 N. Victory Dr., Mankato save. Take it from a Tidy Tightwad! The more mnvac.org 507-345-2409 you save, the better off you’ll be.RVW Hours: Mon. - Friday 9-8 pm; by Cindy Haugland, tidytightwads.com 019874 Sat. 9-6; Sun. Noon - 5.

82 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 Fall is for Planting

Oh, the seasonality of Minnesota. We scarcely get used to one other. Fall is an excellent season for plant division, mostly because weather reality before it dashes away with another one it is no longer hot and dry, which is stressful for newly- riding in on its coattails. I’m sure you’ve all heard divided plants. Some perennials, such as irises and the variations of the joke about Minnesota only arden G daylilies, will flower more consistently when they G al having two seasons: winter and preparing for l • • G are divided every few years. Another fun reason winter… blah, blah, blah. a a to divide your perennials is to create more G r n d plants! You can easily cut plants into smaller As a seasonal outdoor worker, my life e e d n pieces and spread them around your yard revolves around the seasons more than r G (and give them to your friends). To do this most people’s do. And in my several years a a successfully, carefully dig up an entire G of garden-industry experience, I’ve heard l

•

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•

all sorts of silly misconceptions about l

the roots using a hand tool or a shovel.

a the seasons and how they affect plants. G

Divisions won’t grow without strong roots

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n or tubers, so try not to harm those parts too

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appropriate season for planting anything. r

This is simply not true! In fact, for many a NEW PLANTS

•

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plants, I think that fall is the best season G If you’ve already divided and transplanted to

G a

r n d for planting, as long as you can water them e your heart’s content, you might find yourself regularly until the ground freezes. wandering aimlessly through the garden center aisles, looking for a new plant-friend to bring home TRANSPLANTING and love forever. Don’t let the heavily discounted prices Sometimes it seems like a great idea to plant something in a certain on overgrown yellowing annual six-packs discourage you from place. But then, as the months pass and the branches stretch purchasing new perennials, trees, and shrubs this “late” in the season. upward and outward, you might find yourself Perennials and woody plants planted in the fall get a jumpstart in reconsidering your original placement the spring, as they’ve already started establishing roots in the fall. plan — especially when areas This means they’ll start growing sooner and faster than anything you that used to be shady become could buy from a greenhouse in early spring — plus, then you’ll have sunny, and vice versa. These more time and energy to devote to planting your annuals! are great opportunities for transplanting, or COLD SEASON VEGGIES digging up plants and Peas, lettuce, arugula, spinach, radishes, turnips, kohlrabi, and a few re-planting them other vegetables are “cool season” plants. If you planted them early in other locations. in the spring, you might have noticed that they fizzled out when The best hint I the summer weather heated up. However, seeding these fall crops have regarding breathes new life into tired September vegetable gardens. Personally, transplanting is to the weird spring weather deprived me of my usual harvest of salad really think about greens, so I’ll be happily re-seeding my spinach and lettuce before the the ideal growing middle of the month. Cool season crops can be harvested until frost. conditions for a plant BULBS before you move it. Let’s not forget about fall bulbs! Tulips, daffodils, alliums, hyacinths, Try to fulfill as many of and other fall bulbs should be planted when the ground has cooled the ideal requirements sufficiently but at least six weeks before the soil freezes -- usually as you can, so your plants late-September to mid-October. Most garden centers will have bulbs can truly thrive and not available for purchase at close to the appropriate time (usually a little have to be stressed by another early). Even though they’re dormant when you plant them, bulbs will transplanting in a few more months benefit from regular watering, just like your other plants. Since bulb when they start to do poorly again. As foliage dies back to the ground by late spring, you can plant bulbs with any planting, be sure to water your transplants about twice a very close to your existing plantings. week. Laura Schwarz, a New Ulm native, is a writer and Note: while it’s quite possible to move young/small trees and shrubs, horticulturist in Minneapolis. large well-established trees and shrubs should probably not be relocated without the advice or help of a professional. DIVIDING Many perennials (and some shrubs) benefit from regular division — the act of separating asexually-reproduced plants from each

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 83 Treasures. . . Scheels Sport and Health Expo The Scheels Sport and Health Expo is home base for all pre-marathon action including packet pick-up, shopping, expo booths, the Kids Zone, Toddler Trot and Diaper Dash and The Orthopedic & Fracture Clinic Speaker Series. There will be a variety of exhibitors and vendors ranging from sporting goods to specialty items. Stop by and check out all there is to offer! Visit mankatomarathon.com for more info. Love at First Sight! Saturday 10.21.17, This novel and colorful console will be the 11:00 to 6:00 p.m. focal point of any room and so versatile! Get The Fall Look Myers Field House Would make an unique TV stand, hallway This beautiful faux leather, washable Minnesota State University, Mankato bureau or accent piece or anywhere Montanaco Jacket looks beautiful with the you want a wow-factor. Liverpool Blouse and fleece lined Rieker Hayden’s Furniture Boot from Germany. Pair this ensemble with & Floorcovering this soft leather crossbody hobo purse. 14 East Central Springfield, MN 56087 Creek Side Boutique 507.723.5415 120 N Augusta Court Mankato, MN 56001 507.344.1656

Pelham Wall Clock After School Cookies Bring home an old time London feel with Get freshly made cookies at HyVee for the Pelham wall clock. Antique silvertone the kids after school snack. We have a finish on the frame captures the beauty of variety of flavors including: Chocolate Fall Themed Arrangement yesteryear. Black Roman numerals on white Chip, English Toffee, Homestyle Brownie, Fall is in the air! Bring a bit of nature inside face is a classic combination. M&M, Monster, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, with an original A to Zinnia fall themed It’s timeless style. Oatmeal Raisin, Peanut Butter, Sugar, fresh or permanent floral arrangement. Rooms & Rest Furniture and Mattress and Snickerdoodle. A To Zinnia Floral & Gifts 1760 Madison Ave., Mankato, MN 56001 Hy-Vee New Ulm 15 S. Broadway St., New Ulm, MN 1704 North State St., New Ulm, MN 56073 2015 S. Broadway St. 507.359.9900 roomsandrest.com New Ulm, MN 56073 AND 1223 Cedar St NE Sleepy Eye, MN 507.354.8255 507.794.1000

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 85 Botox Treatment We all want our bodies to mirror our youthful minds and hearts. Botox® is one of the most important substances to hit the field of facial Light up the night rejuvenation. Short of a surgical facelift, this substance is the most popular way to Ready for Fall? Add warmth to your outdoor space with the reduce facial wrinkles. Botox® can be used as It's that time of year to get your yard beautiful Rivers Edge Fire Pit Table. Made a wrinkle treatment to smooth frown lines, cleaned up and ready for fall. Be ready specifically for the great outdoors, this warm to get the job done with quality STIHL and glowing fire will become the place to crow’s feet and forehead furrows. Discover power equipment available at gather with family and friends for years if Botox is an option for you, schedule a free C&S Supply to come. consultation at Skin Essentials, call today! 1951 N Riverfront Drive Mankato, MN Glowing Hearth & Home Skin Essentials, Mankato Clinic 507.387.1171 241 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato, MN Suite 400A, Madison East Center candssupply.com 507.345.8084 1400 Madison Ave, Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.6599 skinessentialsmankato.com

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86 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | september • 2017 River’s Edge Hospital & Clinic has earned the honor of being named on of America’s Best Hospital’s for Emergency Care by the Women’s Choice Award. The award is based on patient satisfaction ratings and care measures for River’s Edge and research about women’s healthcare preferences. We are proud to provide the best emergency care to our community.

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