Wedding Issue! the Art of Dana Sikkila

Wedding Issue! The Art of Dana Sikkila

Strut Your Stuff Spring Fashion Pages Home & Living Natalie Schaefer Special Issue Setting the Stage 232267 20 46 10 36 contents Publisher New Century Press { • 2014 } Chief Operating Officer march Jim Hensley { General Manager 6 Lisa Miller

Managing Editor Eileen Madsen Go

Sales Team Spring Boutique Week in New Ulm ...... 18 Charlie Bornhoft fun, Festivals & Frolics ...... 26 Ruth Klossner Tami Leuthold river Valley Welcome Home Tour ...... 36 Dana Melius Deb Moldaschel Treasures ...... 42 Nissa Sugden Natasha Weis Chris Zelenka Be Strut Your Stuff: Spring Fashion Pages ...... 10 Designer Amy Leuthold heLOC: An Option for Home Improvement Financing ...... 24

Writers Be Well: My Feet Are Killing Me! ...... 30 Eileen Madsen Understanding the Thyroid System ...... 31 Ruth Klossner Dana Melius fashion Fridays: Resort Wear Can Transition into Spring ...... 40

Photographers Shayd’s of Color Photography Do Green Lighthouse Photography Nissa NaKia Photography Tidy Tightwad: The Stuff that Drives You Crazy ...... 22 What Next: Spring Cleaning, Always in Process ...... 25 Printer Corporate Graphics, Mankato, MN Garden Gal: Spring Planting for Winter Interest ...... 34 Good Reads ...... 50 River Valley Woman New Ulm & Mankato, MN Good Taste ...... 53 507.354.6158 [email protected] Moving On: Tips for Selecting a Senior Living Community ...... 52

For advertising and editorial contact information and a list of newsstand connect locations visit Lather, Rinse, Repeat - Editor’s Column ...... 4 rivervalleywoman.com We Connect ...... 5 River Valley Woman is published monthly and Addie Stockman Brings Fresh Ideas to Rooms & Rest ...... 6 distributed free in the Minnesota River Valley area. The content used in this magazine is Dana Sikkila: Featured in Solo Exhibition ...... 16 copyright 2014 River Valley Woman and may Natalie Schaefer: Setting The Stage ...... 20 not be reprinted in part or in whole without written consent by the publisher. All articles and YWCA’s “Women of Distinction” ...... 32 editorial material represent the opinions of the respective authors. Justin Roberts: Mankato’s “Mattress Man” ...... 35 Sewing Seeds Quilt Company ...... 46 Love on the Prairie - Nicole Helget ...... 48

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 3 Lather, Rinse, Repeat by Eileen Madsen, Editor

They say you can’t bluish frost on the glass could be kind of cheerful I guess. We have to take our cheer go home again, but I’m wondering if that where we can get it these days considering the brutality of this winter. is because maybe you have a litter box or Columnist Lori Mathiowetz tackles spring cleaning in her What Now column this piles of shoes blocking the entry and you month, and one of her comments gives me pause. She says “when does a ‘human simply can’t open the door...ever again. Or doing’ become just a human being?” Just sitting and being. Which reminds me once perhaps the world’s homeliest couch, boring when I called my sister, who lives in the backwoods near Brainerd, and her husband, walls, 1980s flooring (black and white checks Larry, answered the phone. I asked him what he was up to and he hesitated before anyone?) or gold shag carpet is waiting there saying, “Well, I’m just standing and looking.” I was inspired by this non-activity as a to greet you and you just don’t want to go viable activity and set out to be more like Larry. A human being. home to face it. If you’re standing and looking at a huge pile of clutter, then sit and look at our That’s ok, turn around and head to one of new column by Cindy Haugland, alias the Tidy Tightwad. I learned so much from the many home shows going on this month her common sense tips. One of my favorites was if you are hanging on to clothes in the area instead, and then high-tail it to that don’t fit in the hopes that after you lose some weight you will fit in them again, your favorite furniture and home improve- forget about it, give them away or toss them out. Not that you might not reach your ment stores and make some changes. Life weight loss goals, but if you do, then you deserve new clothes! That would be an is short, but the days are long and there is even better incentive. Shopping! Take a look at our Strut Your Stuff fashion pages for no excuse to live in surroundings that suck inspiration. There sure are a lot of groovy clothes out there these days at the many the very life out of you. Oh yea, there is that boutiques that have cropped up over the past few years. Grab some pals and GO thing called cash. No worries, there are ways shopping, BE beautiful, DO buy something you love, then CONNECT to your inner to spruce things up on almost any budget. model and strut your stuff this spring! If you have no budget at all you can always Speaking of looking on the bright side, columnist Laura Schwarz tells us how to look out the window. Oh look there goes a add a little “winterest” to our gardens by “planting ahead” and keeping in mind cardinal, they are always in style! And your the winter landscape in our garden scheme of things. Nifty ideas in her Garden Gal neighbor’s garden will be in bloom soon. column include adding texture, berries, and my personal favorite-dried seedpods. Look on the bright side. I got fed up last year trying to maintain too many garden patches so let the one Speaking of bright side do not look at outside my office go natural. Natural meaning embracing the weeds. However, I was my windows as bright they are not. Spring delighted by the overgrowth of milkweed with its subsequent dried pods. And, I kid cleaning on them will have to wait until the you not, today I saw milkweed pod tufts drift by my window. Windex stops freezing in its tracks. Although I had no choice but to stand and look. Thanks Larry. RVW

Correction:

River Valley Woman apologizes for incorrectly spelling Jean Andersen’s name in our February issue and thanks the reader who pointed it out to us.

4 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 We Connect • We Connect • We Connect • We Connect • We Connect • We Connect • We Connect • We Connect What one change have you made in your home Lather, that has made the biggest difference?

We put a bin on our front porch for junk mail. It Wonderful new deck and windows to the Every so often we go without television for long Rinse, helped us cut down the amount of paper that south and the east brings in the light and has periods of time. When the TV isn’t front and actually makes it into the house. transformed the whole space downstairs. Things center, we do more reading, listening to music — Mary Lynn L. just feel so much more open and flowing must and playing games which is good for us and our THIS MONTH’S WINNER! be good Feng Shui. family. Repeat Mary Lynn wins a gift certificate to — Pam K. — Audra S. CreekSide Boutique in Mankato. One very beneficial thing I have gotten rid of Removed the deck on the hot, sunny, south side I ignored all the sound-sleep advice and moved in the past was a load of clothes. Getting rid of our house and built a sunroom there instead. my work area to my bedroom. I still sleep just of clothes I never wore, and that don’t fit right, Now we enjoy the space all year ‘round. fine, even though my laptop and to-do lists are made so much more room in my closet and — Deb. M only a lunge away. drawers, made me feel better about myself and — Dreaming Elk Studio made it easier to decide what to wear. We put a dry erase board by our back door — Brooke K. so that we can write our shopping list on it. If Many things but the best was replacing anyone runs out of an item they can immedi- windows in my dining room. Since my house is Gutted the whole house and made it ately write it down. It has helped to eliminate next to an open park and gets any and all winds, our own home! those store trips where, after you return home, the windows have made a significant difference — Clarice P. you realize you needed another item. in my CenterPoint bill. — Nicole S. — Sydelle M. One of the biggest things that I think a lot of people don’t think about is lighting and how We moved our computer to the basement. Painted a wall of our kitchen in chalkboard it affects your mood. We updated the lighting That means more play time for us and the kids paint. Makes meal planning a whole lot easier! in our front hall where you enter our house to because the computer isn’t at such an easy — Mari B. something much more ambient and welcom- access point! ing. Plus, we replaced our “haunted house” — Kelly B. Doubling a recipe – making one portion and chandelier (my husband’s words) in our kitchen freezing the other as well as learning how to to something more modern with a bright but properly store and save leftovers to prevent food not harsh light. It makes all the difference in the We use an online calendar to keep our schedules waste in our home. Both increase the opportu- world when you are working and living in good up-to-date. All of us can add events from our nity for healthy homemade meals for my family, lighting. You don’t have to spend a lot of money separate devices (iphone/pod, android, laptop) increase my efficiency as a wife/mother and for good lighting and you would be amazed at so we all know what the plan for the day, week decrease our family’s food expense. how much better you feel with it! or month will be. — Kristin H. — Mary L. — Dinah S.

Remodeled my kitchen and downstairs Fresh flowers Wall color. Wall color always changes the whole bathroom. The last of the 70s are gone — Michelle W. feel of a room, so I change mine at least every from my home! two years. — Connie K. — Jessica S-J.

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 5 From North Carolina to Mank ato, by way of St. Paul

Interior designer brings fresh ideas to Rooms and Rest

Story By Ruth Klossner Photos by Rick Apitz , Shayd’s Photography She added, “The whole process can be overwhelming for people. Designers go to school to learn the psychology of the whole home It should be no surprise decorating process. I can help prevent issues down the road, that Addie Stockman is involved in the furniture industry. After especially when doing a whole home.” all, she grew up in Hickory, North Carolina—home to one of the Making buying choices can be difficult, as Covey shared in a oldest furniture manufacturers in the United States, Hickory White. story. Formerly known as Hickory Manufacturing Company, the company “I had one customer who said, ‘I buy things I like, then nothing has been in continuous operation since its start in 1902. goes together when I get them home.’ I said, ‘I’ve got somebody What is surprising is that Stockman made the journey from North that can come to your home to help you.’” Carolina to Mankato. Stockman sets up an in-home consultation, spending perhaps “My dad is a Lutheran School principal. He was called to Trinity an hour to view the home, its style, and furniture that the clients Lutheran in Janesville in my junior year in high school,” Addie already have. She’ll measure rooms and get an overall feel for the explained. “That’s how I got to Minnesota.” situation. Using an iPad program, Stockman can show and print Last December—right after she graduated from Concordia out potential floor plans that include new arrangements and new University in St. Paul with a degree in interior design—Stockman pieces of furniture. During a second appointment in-store, clients joined Rooms & Rest as interior designer. She was hired “on the can view, compare, and select pieces to incorporate into their plan. spot” by Rooms and Rest sales manager Kim Covey. It was a good “We’ll consider colors and fabrics,” Addie said. “Most of the time, decision, as Covey has been impressed by the fresh ideas the new they don’t want to change paint. We have big fabric selections from designer brings to the store and its clients. many brands—Broyhill, England, Jonathan Louis, Southern Motion, Stockman works with Covey and the sales staff to assist clients in Fjords, and more.” a variety of ways. Covey added, “We have a very good sales staff that knows Of her first few months on the job, Addie said, “I do lots of things our product well. That helps with the buying process when your to help clients. I need to be a good listener to understand their sales staff knows what they’re talking about. Our staff doesn’t needs and wants, as wall as interpret the latest trends. I can work work on commission, so clients don’t have to worry about feeling on one room or a whole home remodel.” pressured.”

6 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Mankato store staff: Lori Rieff - sales, Kari Weber - office, Addie Stockman - interior designer, Michelle Groskreutz - office, Kim Covey sales manager.

Although based out of the company’s Mankato store, Stockman also works with Rooms and Rest’s New Ulm and Austin locations. Including Covey and Stockman, the Mankato store has nine on its sales staff; New Ulm has seven and Austin five. The sales people all have the same goal— assisting customers to select the best pieces for their use—and they know when to ask for Stockman’s assistance. Stockman travels to the other stores at least once a month to assist customers, update product and accessories, and to make sure the floors show the product at its best. Being “just out of school” and with several years of experience working in the field while in college, Stockman is familiar with the newest trends in the industry. She noted, however, “Every area has different styles. They don’t always work in other areas.”

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 7 Thelatest trends in furnishings

• Rustic is huge. Everything Addie saw at the Las Vegas market was rustic and it’s hitting the store floors.

• Grey is big in furniture and accessories. Brown is always in.

• Poufs are a new trend in ottomans. They’re kind of like a beanbag, but firmer, and can be square or round.

• Artwork, especially large canvases, makes a nice accent. Boat prints are popular this year.

• Mirrors are huge, especially with wood frames. They reflect light and help in dark spaces.

• Spring colors are a draw as people hope for spring. Lime or spring green, along with bright yellow, were popular colors at market. Coral was big, too.

• Pops of color brighten up neutral colors. When keeping the big pieces neutral, accessories can add pops of color. The women of New Ulm’s Rooms and Rest from left: Phyllis Schilling- office manager, Lesa Hartley-sales, Tricia Jahnni-sales, Debbie Zahn-sales, Samantha Schmit-sales, Sue Erdman-sales. • Accent cabinets are popular. Available in lots of styles, cabinets are functional as well as decorative. Used in a hallway or under the TV, they can provide exposed or enclosed storage. A bit of Rooms and Rest History Rooms and Rest Furniture has maintained steady growth in the furniture and • Fireplaces are a budget friendly way to add mattress industry since its simple beginning as Minnesota Warehouse Furniture in warmth as well as ambiance. 1986. The business moved from its downtown Mankato location to its present site in the old K-Mart building “on the hill” 15 years ago. • The ‘reclaimed look’ is in. Pieces come A warehouse at first, things weren’t always rosy. from as far away as India and are often made of With a laugh, president Tom Scheman explained, “The roof leaked and we used reclaimed wood. kids’ swimming pools to catch the drips. Some of my friends added goldfish in the pools.” • Handmade Amish furniture is available “We even had bubblers,” sales manager Kim Covey added. in various woods and stains. Made in Indiana, All three stores have been remodeled and updated. the workmanship on bedroom and dining As the business changed and no longer resembled a warehouse, the company’s room pieces is amazing. Pieces can be custom- name was changed to Rooms and Rest in 2008, to better reflect its focus on room designed from a client’s sketch. packages and bedding.

8 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Ten Tips of advicedesign from Addie

1. Mixing and matching - bedding— pillows/comforters/throw blankets— is popular. Don’t be afraid of change—mix and match is a good way to introduce new bedding pieces without buying an all-new bedroom.

2. Move seating away from walls. ‘Floating furniture’ is a great way to make a room feel more intimate.

3. Spring is on its way—bring spring inside with pops of color, poufs, pillows, blankets, and artwork. It’s a great way to make a room feel fresh.

4. Choosing neutral colors can help make a room feel bigger. Have fun with accents to introduce color.

5. Introduce natural elements. Every room needs a touch of Mother Nature.

6. Rustic, rustic, rustic! Rustic is tremen- dous. Everyone wants rustic—from a single piece to an entire room.

7. Let there be light! Lamps can be such a great way to introduce another element into your room. Lamps have become a piece of décor themselves, while adding a cozy warm glow.

8. Area rugs are a great way to add color, texture, and pattern. An area rug can make a space feel cozy and warm.

9. Don’t be afraid of change. Risk taking can be scary when it comes to buying furniture. But, sticking to neutrals for the bigger buys and adding color with accessories will make the main pieces last longer while trends continue to change.

10. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Interior designers, as well as the sales staff, are eager and educated to help in any way they can. Sometimes having that “other eye” can make all the difference.RVW

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 9 Strut River Valley Woman rolls out a virtual runway for the beautiful ladies in our communities as they Strut Their Your Stuff for area boutiques, salons and shops. Featured clothing includes gowns and dresses for upcoming weddings & proms, swimwear and lingerie, as well as Stuff casual wear to look awesome while welcoming spring! Fashion Pages Featuring Local River Valley Women!

The Colors of Spring Carisa Buegler wears a comfortable soft Ruby Rd sweater combining all of this season’s favorite water colors. This is teamed with twin scarves, a silicone watch, plus an aqua Passion’s bag. A fresh green sweater jacket and slim ankle pants from LuLu B are the perfect back drop for a mixed metal necklace from Kaleidoscope. Carisa’s emerald tank dress by Charlie Paige is set off by an infinity scarf and a lime green handbag from Passion. A jewel-toned necklace from Victoria Leland dresses up a casual tank dress. Lambrechts 119 North Minnesota Street Downtown New Ulm • 507.233.4350 lambrechtsgifts.net Bye Bye Winter!

As we begin transitioning to warmer weather and resort wear, we are once again loving the maxi dress. This particular nude and black damask print looks great on its own or paired with a bold, eye catching statement necklace and a teal clutch for a pop of color. Our second look features a shift style embroidered tank that looks great as a stand-alone top or paired with a blazer for a more formal look. Skinny jeans, a nude bootie and a mustard colored clutch tie this outfit together perfectly for an effortless chic look. Our final outfit features a casual look from our curvy girl line paired with a bold statement necklace and a handbag from Izzy & Ali to add some Penazz to this outfit. Photography by Jessica Fischer Models: Kyley Hillesheim, featured “Fashion Friday” writer and Trisha Griebel of Penazz Hair and Day Spa Gallery 512 Boutique Affordable clothing & accessories

204 North minnesota • New Ulm • 507.354.5120 www.gallery512boutique.com {website coming soon} Find us on facebook at gallery512boutique

Hours: Monday 10-4, Tuesday 10-5, Wednesday 10-8, Thursday 10-8, Friday 10-7, Saturday 9-5 and closed on Sundays.

Spring at Semblance is all about Modern Simplicity. Neutral basics that can be mixed and matched to maximize functionality and versatility.

The Full Metal is a classique skinny cargo pant. The neutral olive green and zipper detail make them easy and modern when paired with the Covina, a classic thin v-neck sweater.

The Samantha is a classic chambray shirt dress made of 100% Tencel. Paired with our rhinestone flats and our copper rope necklace this look is contemporary and effortless.

The Kansas skirt is a flirty black button front skirt with a drawstring waist. Paired with the silky-soft rose print Keila tank and a light ombre scarf this outfit is feminine and sleek.

Photography By Lisa Kieper of LMB Photography Art Direction By Bobbi Barron of Bobbi Barron Design Model Bobbi Barron Semblance Lifestyle Boutique 16 N Minnesota St. • New Ulm • 507.304.0377 www.shopsemblance.com RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 11 Fashion Finds

Helen Ward, bottom left, sports a colorful Curio New York striped sweater with mint green capri pants by Christopher Blue. Shoes by Jambu and Big Buddha purse complete this jaunty go-anywhere look. Edina jewelry designer Helen Wang silver necklace adds a bit of sparkle.

Rachel Ward, far right, goes casual in NYDJ (Not Your Daughters Jeans) ankle pants and Tribal tank. Easy-going Whiskey leather purse by Born and stand-out green ankle sandals add springy color. The look is topped off with a Liverpool jean jacket to bring it all together.

CreekSide Boutique 120 N. Augusta Ct. Suite 101 Mankato, MN •507-344-1656 Hours: M-f 10:30-6; Sat. 10:30-5; Closed Sun.

Learning is Fun Bellaforma Learning is fun as Sheri Madsen, Rita Gewerth, Tanya Cook, and Rhonda Kerkhoff support each other discovering 1020 E Bridge Street • Redwood Falls how to get the best fit during a “bra fitting party.” 507.637.1770 bellaformaboutique.com Jazz up your undergarments with some shimmering color! Also locations in Willmar, Madison & Alexandria Be a lady in red in Jodee Scarlet bra, and declare you shall wear purple in this pretty bra by Anita.

12 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Penazz Hair & Day Spa 101 North Minnesota Street, New Ulm, MN 507.359.1229 • penazz.com

New spring and summer looks have arrived at Penazz Hair and Day Spa. Experience our new array of Culture Clash make-up and color for a warmer outlook on life. Say “so long” to winter and “hello” to that spring feeling when you pamper yourself with soothing spa treatment! When temperatures rise you’ll be ready!

All Dressed Up with Somewhere to Go

Former Sisters Bridal and Tux client Candi Sannerud glows in this Sophia Tolli gown with lace sleeves and accents. Minnesota Valley Lutheran student Abby Trebelhorn is a knockout in a red, asymmetric-sleeved Tony Bowls Evenings prom dress (top), and glitters in an aqua dress by Tony Bowls Le Gala (bottom).

Sisters Bridal & Tux 1201 S. Broadway •New Ulm, MN 507-359-7204 sistersbridalandtux.com

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 13 A Unique Shopping Experience! Explore Encore’s expanded consignment bridal and prom dress boutique. Make an entrance at prom when you turn heads in a Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner purple formal. Wow the groom with an Allure empire waist elegant wedding gown in ivory with cafe accents paired with Elen Henderson Design veil. Be the one and only you in an Amore Couture purple blouse, blue jeggings and Helen’s Heart silver with purple flower shoes.

Photography by Nissa NaKia. Model Shelly Scholtz.

Consignment & Encore Bridal Boutique 311 Riverfront Dr., Mankato, MN 507.386.0861 www.encoremankato.com

Hours: M-F 10-6ish; Sat. 10-4ish; Sun. 12-4ish Moods & Attitudes Splendid Nest employee Lisa Graves jazzes up her Jag skinny jeans with layers. A long cream tank and front tie check print shirt add a casual interest. Silver jewelry make for a mod attitude. The same basics of skinny jeans and cream tank only with a gentler feel. Topping it off with baby blue woven top with lace detail and novel necklace completes the look. Going for an elegant mood in a long black cotton skirt, black tank and sleeve- less button up floaty blouse in black, ivory and plum. Sparkling accessories add a wow factor.

The Splendid Nest 20 North Minnesota, New Ulm 354-NEST (6378) Hours: Mon-Sat. 10-5 www.splendidnest.com 14 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Something for All Ages! Think Spring! Think Prom! Stop in today for low prices and great selection.

MRCI Auxiliary Thrift Shop donates all profits to MRCI WorkSource, including this $1 million check (below) in 2013.

Model Iris Nelson, long-time MRCI volunteer, enjoys a recent warm up and thrift store buys.

Remember, donating is fast & easy with our car-side service.

111 Sioux Road • Mankato, MN • 507-388-3867 207155

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 15 Dana Sikkila: Busy gallery, artistic director featured in March 20 solo exhibition

By Dana Melius

Dana Sikkila bursts “We love them and they love us,” she beams. “My job is to make with energy. No matter people happy. My philosophy is you be nice to people and they’ll be her role or title, she brings a nice to you.” unique artistic flare to her work. While she enjoys fund-raising to keep the volunteer organization’s And it’s quite the workload. doors open and walls filled with artwork, Sikkila credits Keith Luebke Sikkila, 27, has served the past two years for helping obtain a 2013 Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council grant. as executive director of the 410 Project, a volunteer-managed art Luebke, a veteran in Mankato area non-profits, currently is an arts gallery and “experimental space” located at 523 South Front Street administration instructor at MSU. Those MSU ties have also reaped in downtown Mankato. She and eight other volunteers manage the benefits in securing enough print-making capacity to launch Black gallery, encouraging local residents to professionally ignite their Water Press in October 2013. artistic careers. “It’s crazy expensive (starting up). MSU donated some of their old But Sikkila is also artistic director and creator of Black Water Press, stuff, but we still needed a lot of money. It was kind of a gamble. But a relatively new community-supported print-making center housed there wasn’t anybody around doing it,” Sikkila said. in the back room of the 410 Project. Besides her volunteer work, she “Doing it” meant print-making potential for budding artists to is an adjunct art professor at Minnesota State University-Mankato expand their collections via Black Water Press. Sikkila created the and also holds a 40-hour-a-week job as a digital press operator at name as homage to her adored Boston terrier, Murphy, as well as to Taylor Corporation. a former MSU professor, Erik Waterkotte. And then there’s the black On March 20 at the Twin Rivers Council for the Arts at 523 South water that’s the end result of the printmaking. Second Street, just one block away from the 410 Project, Sikkila will Another financial help was a recent Kickstarter fundraising be featured in a solo art exhibition. She labels herself an “installation campaign goal of $2,000 concluded with 69 individual pledges artist” and will bring an “interactive component” to her exhibition. ranging from $5 to over $100, with total donations easily surpassing It will run from 5 to 8 p.m. that mark to $3,250. In short, she likes to “alter space” in her works. Put the new print-making emphasis together with Sikkila’s love “We (the 410 Project gallery) are the only place that allows artists for teaching and you’ve got the perfect match for such classes for all to alter our space,” Sikkila says, giving participants plenty of latitude ages at the 410 Project. She’s particularly proud of the development when presenting their works. “That’s kind of fun pushing limits…. of youth classes. And in this space, everybody gets it.” Sikkila grew up and graduated from high school in Litchfield, moving to Mankato for an arts education from MSU, earning her Master’s of Arts degree in 2012, with an emphasis in Print-making. She’s been volunteering at the 410 Project since 2009, seeing it through a move to its current location and taking over as a volunteer executive director upon completion of her master’s. “I’m huge into networking,” Sikkila says. “The 410 Project can’t survive without working with other organizations to help keep it going. We have to connect with these people.” She credits those connections in part for her organization’s budding success. The 410 Project has not officially filed as a 501c3, so Sikkila receives fiscal oversight from Region 9.

PHOTO ID, Top: Dana Sikkila, executive director of the 410 Project and creator of the Black Water Press. Right: Youth art classes at the 410 Project have been popular.

16 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 “Kids need to learn and communicate. It all comes back to feeling good about yourself,” Sikkila says. And at the 410 Project’s youth art classes, which average about eight in size but sometimes run as high as 15, the youngsters feel good, she stresses. But Sikkila also enjoys the inter-generational aspect which has developed there. Week-long adult classes usually start up every two weeks, averaging six to seven persons. “We’re really helping the community because we’re working with a real eclectic group of people,” said Sikkila. “One thing that I’m really proud of is the diversity of people that are coming in.” But what Sikkila truly enjoys is watching people who have tip-toed around their individual art dreams, often hesitant to re-start their creative juices, flourish once more. “People settle too much. I always ask that – what do you like to do,” Sikkila says, hoping the 410 Project classes allow for a space that’s comfortable and safe. “I know it’s nervous going into somewhere that they’ve never been before. But we like to encourage people to do things in a lot of different ways.” The 410 Project has also moved into other arts fields, recently offering a poetry slam. Sikkila also hopes to launch in the spring a collaborative with visiting artists from the Twin Cities area, teaming up with the University of Min- nesota art department. Sikkila’s own contributions to community have begun to be noticed. Since the launch of Black Water Press, she’s been featured in magazines and newspapers, been recognized with a Jefferson Good People Award from KEYC-TV and most recently accepted a spot on the City of Mankato’s Livability Council, representing “Arts and Culture.” “It’s nice that I’m starting to get recognition down there (at the 410 Project),” she smiles, then laughs. “I’m a little controlling. It’s kind of my baby.” Sikkila’s other “baby” currently needs her attention, that being the March 20 solo exhibition at the Twin Rivers Council for the Arts. “I have to start making my own artwork!” RVW Photo ID, Top: Participants and guests packed the 410 Project’s recent art show. Right: Dana Sikkila at the 410 Project in Mankato RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 17 Spring Boutique Week April 2-5 in New Ulm In an effort to raise awareness about New Ulm shopping opportunities and bring business to the community the New Ulm Business and Retail Association, along with sponsorship from River Valley Woman magazine, will present Spring Boutique Week April 2-5.

Within the last couple years New Ulm has experienced growth rating workshops filled with simple ideas to get your home ready for in specialty shops and boutiques. It was determined that spring is spring are free and held at the Marketplatz Mall on Thursday, April a great time of year to host a fun event to introduce these shops as 3rd at 6 pm; Friday, April 4th at 1 pm; Saturday, April 5th 10:30 am. well as shine a light on the stores that have been here for years. A variety of shops and boutiques will be offering their own A TO ZINNIA FLORAL & GIFTS demonstrations, prizes and drawings throughout the week. A 15 S Broadway highlight will be the Friday evening Fashion Show at the New Ulm 507-359-9900 www.a2zinnia.com Event Center featuring spring looks from Lambrechts, Splendid Nest, Hours: Mon-Fri 8-6 and Sat 8-5 Gallery 512 and Semblance. Wednesday, April 2nd, 5:30 pm, Air Plant Care Class-Free Saturday morning starts out with a brunch buffet at 9:30 a.m. at Thursday, April 3rd, 5:30 pm, Succulent Planting Class $35 The Grand in downtown New Ulm where you will be entertained Friday, April 4th, 10:00 am for Air Plant Care Class-Free with a jewelry and accessories show presented by models from local Saturday, April 5th, at 10:00 am, Succulent Planting Class $35 boutiques. Call for fee information. Stop in all week and register for a year’s worth of flowers and truffles, CALENDAR OF PARTICIPANTS’ EVENTS: a $600 value!

LAMBRECHTS GALLERY 512 BOUTIQUE 119 N Minnesota St. 204 N Minnesota St. 507-233-4350 www.lambrechtsgifts.net 507-354-5120 www.facebook.com/gallery512boutique Hours: Mon & Thu 9-8; Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat 9-5; Sun 12-4 Life,Hours:Life,Life, MonLife, 10-4,Life,Life, TueLife, 10-5, Wed & Thu: 10-8,Wealth FriWealth 10-7,WealthWealth SatWealth 9-6Wealth Wealth See what’s new in fashion and home decor. Register to win over Sun: 10-3 $300 of door prizes and gift certificates AprilYour 2ndYour - Your6th.Your FloralYourYour decoYour- Spring Style Event, Your Wednesday,YourYourYourYour AprilYourYour 2nd from 7-8 pm Life, Wealth

YourAt Strategic Wealth Consulting,Your our top priority is to help you. At AtInvestment AtInvestmentAt Investment AtInvestment AtInvestmentAt CentersInvestment InvestmentCenters Centers Centers of Centers ofAmerica, Centers ofAmerica, Centers of America, ofAmerica, ofAmerica,our ofAmerica,our top America,our topour priority topour prioritytop our priority topour priority topis priority toptois priority tohelpis priority istohelp to ishelpyou. tohelpisyou. istohelpyou. toyou.help helpyou. you. you.

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Mila Quiring RepRep NameRep NameRep NameRep NameRep NameRep Name Name Greg Leuthold ApprovedApproved Title Approved TitleApproved TitleApproved Title Approved Title Approved Title Title LOCATEDLOCATED AT:LOCATED AT:LOCATED AT:LOCATED AT:LOCATED AT:LOCATED AT: AT: Financial Consultant Financial Consultant ApprovedApproved AddressApproved AddressApproved AddressApproved AddressApproved AddressApproved Address Address Strategic Wealth Consulting 000.000.0000000.000.0000000.000.0000000.000.0000000.000.0000000.000.0000000.000.0000 Strategic Wealth Consulting [email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected] 510 2nd Street North, New Ulm, MN 510 2nd Street North, New Ulm, MN 507.354.7177 507.354.7177 disclosure> [email protected] [email protected]

Securities, advisory services and insurance products are offered through Investment Centers of America, Inc. (ICA), member FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor, and affiliated insurance agencies. ICA and Strategic Wealth Consulting are separate companies. 234499

18 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 SEMBLANCE BOUTIQUE Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5 507-304-0377 www.shopsemblance.com Discussion about creating a more well defined closet, Thursday, April 3rd at 6:30 pm. Drinks and treats provided. Space is limited, please contact Bobbi to reserve your spot.

SPLENDID NEST 20 N Minnesota St. 507-354-6378 www.splendidnest.com Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 Jewelry Trunk show by Helen Wang, a high-end jewelry line (also shown at the Minneapolis Institute of Art). Saturday, April 5th at 1 pm.

SEWING SEEDS QUILT COMPANY 1417 S State St. 507-354-8801 www.SewingSeedsQuiltCo.com Hours: Mon 10-7, Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4 ADORNit Trunk-Show! Samples and projects from the NEW Chamberry fabric line and pattern book, including quilts, runners, pillows, weekender bags, aprons and a designer tee. 15% discount on all ADORNit fabrics, kits and patterns purchased during Boutique Week.

SPINNING SPOOLS QUILT SHOP 106 S Minnesota St. 507-359-2896 www.spinningspoolsquiltshop.com Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4 Participate in a make-and-take zipper and fabric jewelry project any time Friday and Saturday. Call for fee information.

THE THIMBLE BOX 10 N Minnesota St. 507-354-6721 www.facebook.com/pages/The-Thimble-Box Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4 Demonstrations featuring pins and accessories for bags.

GUTENTAG HAUS 127 N Minnesota St. 507-233-4287 www.gutentaghaus.com Mon 9-7, Tue-Sat 9-5 Curious about Cuckoo Clocks? Stop by and we will demonstrate and talk clocks!

HOPE & FAITH FLORAL 209 N Minnesota St. 507-642-8967 www.hopeandfaithfloral.com Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 10-4 Fairy garden make-and-take class, Thursday, April 3rd at 6 pm. Guests can bring in their own container or we will have some available for purchase as well as accessories. 10% discount on all fairy garden products that evening. Contact [email protected] for questions on the class.

PRIMITIVE GATHERINGS 14 S Minnesota St. 507-359-1948 Stop in to sign up for door prizes throughout the week.

Save the Date: April 24th 4:30 to 6:30 Brave New You Woman’s Event. Watch for ticket information! 234771

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 19 Natalie Schaefer THE stagesetting Home stager, Natalie Schaefer of Perfectly Placed Home Staging in New Ulm shares the benefits of selling a home or business by personalizing it with properly placed furnishings. She also advises on changes and improvements that can be made to increase the odds of selling faster. What is home staging? Home staging is the process of preparing a property for the real estate market. Staging focuses on improving the home so it is an attractive product for sale. It involves using proven techniques to create a warm, inviting, and updated space that will appeal to potential buyers. Home staging highlights the positive features of the home and creates an emotional connection for the buyer to see the life they would have living there. Some specific areas staging addresses are: curb appeal, cleanliness, de-cluttering, de-personalizing, proper furniture placement, organizing, lighting, and color choices. For lived in homes, I offer consultations where I examine the home and advise the seller as to what changes are needed. I also offer hands-on staging where I assist in the process. For vacant homes, I bring in furniture and accessories to highlight the best features of the home and make it appealing to buyers. What is your background and why did you decide to go into this business? I have always loved houses and interior design. My first job was a caretaker for a beautiful bed & breakfast in Monticello, Minnesota. I then started my own cleaning business. I love the feeling after leaving preview homes online, pictures a house neat and clean, with everything arranged and perfectly placed. of vacant or cluttered homes Then one day a real estate agent told me that a home stager in don’t impress buyers enough to New Ulm was getting out of the business schedule a showing. However, a in order to focus on her teaching job. staged home photographs I quickly responded, “Oh that’s “Most buyers form an better and appeals to a wide range of buyers; thus adding like my dream job!” She looked opinion of a home within a your home to a buyers “must see” list. My clients have also at me and said, “Natalie, you expressed that staging helped take some of the stress out of would be great at it. If you are few seconds of arriving. Home putting their home on the market. at all serious you should go staging makes those first few How do you decide what to put into the rooms or home talk to her about it.” So I did. She seconds count.” to be staged? Such as style of the decor? I start by walking was so gracious in helping me get through the home and take measurements and before pictures. I started. I even bought some staging fur- take into account the style of the home and the colors of the walls and niture and accessories from her. The first vacant trim. Sometimes re-painting is not an option so I have to work with what house I staged sold in 35 days. is there. I then try and use complimentary colors to accent what I cannot What types of businesses use home staging? Of course, real estate change. I endeavor to update spaces with neutral yet modern furniture agents swear by home staging as a way to sell a property quickly and for with clean lines. a strong selling price. Other businesses that could benefit from staging Where do you get the items used in the staging (tables, chairs, are commercial spaces that are ready for an update or rearrangement of etc.) I am a thrifty shopper who loves Target clearance. I also have my their lobby or meeting area. favorite consignment shops in the Twin Cities that have like-new items at What are the advantages to the business or home owner? Statistics affordable prices. support the fact that staged homes sell quicker and for more money Can you give some examples of the difference it made to stage than non-staged homes. Home staging is a smart investment that actu- a home for sale vs. leaving it empty? I had mentioned the first vacant ally saves you money. When your home sells quickly you save money home I staged sold in 35 days. It had been on the market for two years on carrying costs like mortgage payments and utility bills. Also home with two different real estate agencies. Staging was the only factor that staging always costs less than your first price reduction. You could save changed. Another vacant house was on the market seven months and thousands of dollars by staging your home first. Because most buyers after staging sold in 22 days. I also staged a home that had been on the

20 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 market six months and after staging sold in 14 days. ...After! Another home had previously been on the market then taken off. The sellers used my services before putting it back on the market and it sold with three offers on the second day it was listed. What impact does a staged home for sale have on the potential buyers? Most buyers form an opinion of a home within a few seconds of arriving. Home staging makes those first few seconds count. A staged home captures the interest of the buyer so they can envision the life they would have living there. Staging helps them to picture themselves reading a book by the fireplace or baking in the kitchen. It helps the buyer to connect emotionally to the home. Do homes sell faster when they are staged? Staging is a strategic marketing tool designed to show a property in its best possible light. It gives your home an edge over competing properties. Professional stagers and many realtors believe in the power of this technique regardless of market fluctuations. According to the Real Estate Staging Association, professionally staged properties simply look better; spend 73 percent less time on the market; typically sell for more money; and are viewed as “well-maintained.” According to the Southern MN Board of Realtors, the year-to-date average days on the market for listings that sold was 117 days. Perfectly Placed Home Staging has an average of 45 days on the market. RVW

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 21 Tidy Tightwad Tips The Stuff that Drives You Crazy Cindy Haugland is frequently approached by friends and kids or grandkids to have it. Furthermore, if you are not currently strangers who aren’t afraid to ask what to do with their mounds of using it, but only storing it, give it to them now. Why not let them paper, excess shoes, or endless school art projects. Cindy has been use or enjoy it now, while you can witness the keepsake continuing doing professional cleaning and organizing for years, and it may its story with your family. Chances are if you don’t do this, it will be come as no surprise that there isn’t much she hasn’t seen when it boxed up and donated or thrown without your intentions known. comes to people’s messes and clutter. That’s what makes her such a What are often the first things to go when you tackle a great resource to those struggling to get organized and reduce the decluttering project? chaotic stress in their lives. One thing Cindy says all people have in Promotional items! Specifically promotional items that don’t common? All that “stuff” will drive you crazy at some point. Nobody serve a purpose to the owner. Piles of clutter always seem to is alone. We all fight the war on excess clutter, and Cindy’s sharing include mugs, can cozies, water bottles, etc. That’s not to say they some of her most frequently asked questions and tips. don’t serve a purpose for anybody, but if you know you don’t need What do you think prevents people from getting organized? it or won’t immediately use it, don’t pick it up. It’s easy to attend There are a lot of reasons people don’t get fairs and tradeshows and fill a bag of items. organized, but lack of time is at the top of However, it quickly fills drawers and closets the list. Procrastination is another top reason. and becomes clutter! Most people have good intentions of getting How do you convince unwilling kids or to it, but it can feel overwhelming. It’s hard pack rat spouses to reduce the clutter? to get motivated, especially with people Spouses who are packrats can be a chal- thinking they can do it themselves and don’t lenge. However, most of the time (especially want to pay a professional organizer. While in instances of lots of clutter and less livable it’s true that anyone can take time to organize space) the spouse is impressed with the problem areas, lack of motivation plays a progress and quickly understands the value major role. When they make the decision to of letting go of some stuff. Spouses see the hire a professional organizer, they want to get happiness a less cluttered home offers, and their money’s worth and that in itself can be feel an unexpected amount of relief as space motivating. However, once the clutter starts opens up and things take on a less stressful to disappear, the real motivation is in the appearance. Getting rid of clutter is freeing. results that they can see, smell, and feel! Clutter makes you crazy and adds stress to What advice do you have for someone your life. with a big family and hectic schedule? Kids will usually follow the example being Less is more! The less stuff you have, the set. It’s important for them to see parents easier it is to take care of your home and parting with clutter. On the other hand, it’s maintain order. Busy families need to have hard to tell a child she can’t keep 20 Barbies a plan. Get a calendar and write everything when mom’s collection of magazines is on it, including chores, deadlines, cleaning Helpful Tips overtaking the dining room table and dad’s days, etc., as well as events. If it isn’t on the countless running shoes litter the front hall. calendar, it isn’t going to happen. Kids need from a If mom has tried and exhausted all efforts to know where they are going and when, as to help kids reduce toys and clutter, it’s time well as have access to parent’s commitments. Professional to let a professional come in and work with This can help with over extending. A quick the child. Mom likely needs a break, and kids look at the calendar is a visual cue that not Organizer can usually understand that unused toys and one more thing can be added to a busy time by Cindy Haugland books can go to other kids who could use of day with multiple prior obligations. them. tidytightwads.com What are some things people should Explain the A, B, C, and D items in the never throw when cleaning/organizing? kitchen? Never throw important papers, tax An “A” item is something you use every documents, legal forms, etc. If you aren’t sure about something, day. You need to give it top priority in the kitchen, making the item check with your accountant first. A good rule of thumb is that if a easy to get your hands on. “A” items should be at mid-height, and significant monetary transaction took place, it’s something you’ll would include your dishes, silverware, mixing bowls and pans. A “B” want to keep: home mortgage, car loans, leases, licenses, etc. item is something you use on a weekly basis, and it gets the rest of What advice do you have for people in later stages of life, the prominent, easy to access space in your kitchen. This may be such as “empty nesters” and those wanting to retire? hand mixers, strainers, etc. “C” items are used monthly and should As you declutter your home to downsize, make sure you take be place in the less easy to access areas of your kitchen. Use high only what you need. Have you heard the quote, “Have nothing shelves, high cupboards, and very low shelves for these items. If it in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be takes a step stool or getting on your hands and knees to reach a “C” beautiful” by William Morris? When going through more sentimen- item, you don’t want to do it too frequently. “D” items are things tal items, consider this. If it is really important to you that your kids you may or may not want to keep. If you bought a bread maker have a particular item, you need to make sure it’s communicated. eight years ago and haven’t used it, give it to someone who will use Share the story behind the item, its history, and why you want your it. “D” items are also those very seasonal items you may use only

22 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 once or twice a year like a lefse griddle, spritz cookie press, canner, etc. These items can easily be stored away from the kitchen, in the basement, storage room, or on a shelf in the garage. What is the rule about how long to keep something when you haven’t used it in a while? 20% OFF It really depends on what stage of life you are in, your lifestyle, and upcoming events. For example, if you have a punch fountain, but your kids are grown and you rarely host events, it’s likely an Custom item of which you can easily part and not miss. However, if you have kids reaching confirmation and high school graduation ages, it’s something you’ll likely use many times in the years ahead. As Framing far as clothes are concerned, if you haven’t worn a sweater once in the current winter season, you will not wear it next year. If you are holding on to items with the goal of losing weight, consider this. If you lose fifty pounds, you deserve to buy yourself a new dress. The Includes style of clothes changes anyway, so holding on to something for Professional more than a year or two is pointless. The only exception would be if one particular pair of jeans or pretty dress is particularly motivating Design, Mats, for you to lose weight. Then, keep that one item only. Mount & Frame! What are some stumbling blocks people encounter with keeping things clean/organized once a system is in place? We are creatures of habit. Life gets busy, and we resort back to Stop in and mention thiS ad by march 29th old behaviors. A good rule to help with this stumbling block is “one for Sale and free in Stock matting with order thing in, one thing out”. If you buy a new purse, donate the old one. When a new magazine arrives in the mail, it’s time to pitch the old one. Another helpful hint is that if something takes a minute Mankato or less to do, just do it right then and there; write the check, read Design Center the mail and file, hang up the coat, etc. Remember, it took years 1351 Madison Ave. to accumulate excess clutter and get disorganized, and it can’t 507.387.7827 change overnight. Just remember how good it feels to have a clean, organized home, and that less stuff is easier to maintain.RVW 232268 www.hangupsmankato.com

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 23 Money Talk HELOC: an option for home improvement financing

Spring is right around the corner…thank goodness! There may be closing costs to obtaining a HELOC, as it is a mortgage that is placed against your property. The fees may include (but It is the time of the year when you may start think- not be limited to) things such as; appraisal to obtain the current value ing of home improvements or changes that you of your property; title work, verification of outstanding liens against property in county records; necessary recording fees; registration tax would like to do around your house or in your yard. with the county; and possibly document preparation fees. In some cases, a lender may waive the fees due to a promotion, or fees may If you own your home and have some equity built up in it, then be reduced if opened simultaneously with a refinance or purchase of you could consider a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). A HELOC a first mortgage that is done at a lower loan to value. is a revolving line of credit where your primary residence is used as If you sell your home, the HELOC would need to be paid off, as collateral for the loan. Lenders will typically lend funds to borrowers again, it is a lien against the property. You must consider whether anywhere from 70-100% of the value of the home, and subtracting the closing costs that you may pay in obtaining the HELOC will pay from that the balance of any debts owed on an existing mortgage. off. A HELOC typically has what is called a “draw period.” A draw There are endless possibilities to improve your home with the help period is the time that the borrower is able to advance funds from of a HELOC -- a new bathroom, renovated kitchen, or an updated the line of credit. At the end of the draw period, a borrower may outdoor space. As a homeowner, you could take advantage of the be able to renew the line of credit. During the time period that the opportunity through a HELOC to make improvements that can turn line of credit is active, borrowers may be required to make monthly your house into your dream home. Home improvements may also payments to the line. These payments will be either interest only increase the value of your home, so putting some payments, or principal and interest payments. Once you pay down money into it now could result in a great invest- the principal portion of the line of credit, you may then advance ment for your future. RVW those funds again, if needed.

The interest rate of a HELOC is typically a variable rate versus a Michelle Strate fixed rate. If it is a variable rate, it is tied to an index, such as the Mortgage Loan Officer prime rate. With a variable rate HELOC, the rate can fluctuate SouthPoint Federal Credit Union monthly, and typically there will be a floor and a ceiling as to how southpointfed.com much your interest rate can increase to. www.southpointfed.com

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24 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 What Next? Spring Cleaning. . . always in process

ow could we not be looking forward to spring after the Soap box aside, I can certainly understand the impulse to power awful winter we’ve been having? For me it’s easy. wash the side of the house come April. It feels good to clear HTwo words: spring cleaning. Now in all fairness, out the crap, open up the windows and breathe in when it comes to rating my domestic aptitude on newness. I wouldn’t even be surprised if I got a little a scale of 1-10, I’m Roseanne Barr. If I could feverish and made a good faith effort at planting muster up the motivation to create one (and forgetting about…and feeling guilty of those cute wall stick sayings like: about killing) a tomato plant again this “Home is Where the Heart Is” mine year. I’ll get the itch to hurry off to my would say: “A clean house is a sign of local farm and fleet store and partici- a misspent life.” pate in the rush to buy gardening My husband doesn’t like to shovel equipment just like everyone else. until he knows the snow has It’s exciting! Spring isn’t such a bad finished falling (an excuse that’s season (FAR better than the holidays). worked out mighty fine for him I think in Minnesota it is woven into our this year considering it’s virtually very DNA. Experiencing the seasons NEVER finished snowing…(“Maybe in such an intense way, the annual tomorrow, dear”). So I’ve decided themes of shedding leaves, dying that, by that same logic, doing any and freezing over, the rebirth, and spring cleaning is completely new life brings up visceral feelings in pointless since I have young children relationship to the seasons. So naturally, in the house. Laundry is my personal who wouldn’t look forward to the newness favorite chore to hate. No gratification. It is an unusual form come spring. As soon as I have folded and put away For me, it always seems to be a time to the last piece of clothing, I take off of torture that I meet up with old friends. The busyness my clothes to put on my pajamas, put “ cannot make anything of the holiday season and accompanying them in the hamper and LOOK! There hibernation during the winter months is MORE laundry in the hamper! And clean without distracts me from keeping relationships it begins all over again. I’m probably making something kindled. Or I make new ones. Kindred being too philosophical about this, else dirty. spirits tend to show up in my life at ran- but I can’t help but think that it is an dom, at a park or a coffee shop. My spring unusual form of torture that I cannot cleaning tends to be one of purging toxic make anything clean without making something else dirty. Oh, good people and situations from my life. Not necessarily acting intention- the dusting is finished, but now there’s dusting cloths to wash. The ally, it’s actually“ more like passively watching the seasons pass. clean becomes soiled, the soiled becomes clean; day after day. Allowing haters their space to hate, they always destroy themselves And isn’t this just a beautiful metaphor for life, really? Never in the process, so I needn’t interfere really. Gossip has always been finished, always in process. It’s hard to find contentment with this be- an interesting conundrum to me. Not that I necessarily judge people ing our reality, however. Nothing is ever done, accomplished, ready harshly for tripping into the inevitable gossip cover-up statement: for a surprise visit from the in-laws. We live in a constant state of flux. “I’m really concerned about so and so because______.” It’s quite And here’s the kicker: If there isn’t something to do, if per chance interesting to think that tearing someone else down builds you up. we actually receive a moment to stop being a “human doing” and In fact little by little, it turns people into monsters. Usually miserable instead be just a plain old human being… just sitting there…BEING, ones. “Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, we feel like we’re not getting anything done! weak minds discuss people.” –Socrates I wanna know who to blame. Maybe I’m too young to know and Oh look at that. My column about spring someone can help me out. Is this June Cleaver’s fault? Where did cleaning turned into one about gossip. woman get the idea that the reflection of our self-worth, our value, Funny how my mind works. our “having it all together” was to be found in the existence or Maybe that’s why I can’t get any cleaning non-existence of dust bunnies in the hallway? Our relationships can done. RVW be a mess, our job satisfaction-meh, but if the dishes are put away, all By Lori Mathiowetz, shall be well, all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well! Riverbend Spiritual Care, New Ulm www.riverbendspiritualcare.com

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 25 Fun, Festivals Frolics If you would like an event listing here please email Ruth Klossner, [email protected] Listings are generally for events that are free to the public, or are fund-raisers. Listings will& be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.

Friday-Saturday, March 7-8 New Ulm. 7 pm Fri. & Sat., 2 pm • St. Patrick’s Day Parade, New ter, 301 20th Street So, New Ulm. • New Ulm Farm-City Hub Club’s Sun. Fundraiser by Community Ulm, 5 pm parade followed by 9 am-6 pm Fri., 9 am-4 pm Sat. 33rd Annual Farm Show, New Ulm And Seniors Together. Info & social hour, dinner, program, Book signing & lecture by Judy Civic Center, Brown County Fair- tickets: 507-354-3212 or and entertainment. Parade route Martin, demonstrations, quilt grounds. 1-8 pm Fri., 10 am-5 pm newulmseniors.org. begins at 3rd South and Min- displays, vendors, door prizes, Sat. Free admission. The largest nesota Streets and proceeds the food. Info & cost: 507-276-2304 or indoor farm show in south central Saturday-Sunday, March 15-16 wrong way up Minnesota to the [email protected]. Minnesota; exhibits, seminars and • Mankato Natural Healing & Glockenspiel. Info: farm show market for the ladies. Psychic Expo, Courtyard by [email protected]. Friday-Sunday, March 21-23 Info: [email protected] or Marriott, Mankato. 10 am-6 pm • New Ulm Home & Health Show, 507-240-0048. Sat., 10 am-5 pm Sun. Workshops, • St. Patrick’s Day Parade, South New Ulm Civic Center, Brown speakers, healing modalities. Third St., St. Peter, 5 pm. Spon- County Fairgrounds. 3-8 pm Fri., Saturday-Sunday, March 8-9 Exhibitors include intuitive sored by St. Peter Ambassadors. 10 am-6 pm Sat., 11 am-4 pm Sun. • 33rd Annual New Ulm Trade Fair readers, integrated healing Info: [email protected]. Over 180 booths, seminars, door and Living History Event, Turner practitioners, natural beauty and prizes. Info: Hall, 102 S. Minnesota St., New nutritional products, jewelry, Tuesday, March 18 business.newulm.com/events or Ulm, 9 am- 5 pm Sat., 9 am-3 pm crystals, books and products. Info • Succulent Planting class, [email protected]. Sun. American fur trade era trade & tickets: matrixmediaexpo-com. A to Zinnia, New Ulm, 5:30 pm. goods and demonstrations. Info: ticketbud.com/. Info & cost: 507-359-9900. Saturday, March 22 [email protected]. • Succulent Planting class, Saturday, March 15 Thursday, March 20 A to Zinnia, New Ulm, 11 am. Info Tuesday, March 11 • Animal Tracks Snowshoe Hike, • Wine and Beer Tasting Event, & cost: 507-359-9900. (2nd Tuesday of month Minneopa State Park, Group New Ulm Country Club, 5:30-8:30 except July & December) Campground parking lot, pm. Music, snacks, fun for adults; • Waterfalls of the Minnesota • Henderson “Sew & Share” Hwy 68/169, west of Mankato, silent auction. Proceeds to fund River Valley program, Flandrau Quilters, Henderson Library, 10 am. Snowshoe rental at park the future dog park in New Ulm. State Park Beach House, Lower level. 6:30 pm. office (507-389-5464). Info: Info: New Ulm, 2 pm. Photographic Beginning projects or bring your 507-384-8890 or [email protected] or journey of waterfalls in river own stitching, knitting, etc., [email protected]. 507-233-6621 or 507-354-2090. valley. Info: 507-384-8890 or enjoy time to sew, share, and [email protected]. learn. No cost. Saturday March 15 Thursday & Saturday, Info: 507-248-3880. CHS Prom Committee March 20 & 22 • Stop Shop and Drop, Hutchin- Electronic Recycling Fund Raiser, • Container Planting class, A to son. Citywide shopping event; Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am - 2 pm., Brown County Zinnia, New Ulm, 5:30 Thurs., stores offering discounts, specials, March 12-16 Fairgrounds Youth Coliseum 10 am Sat. Info & cost: door prize drawings, more. Info: • Annual Camper Show, New Info: 507-360-4466 507-359-9900. 320-587-5252, Ulm Civic Center, Brown County 320-234-0789 or Fairgrounds, New Ulm. Info: Sunday, March 16 Friday, March 21 [email protected]. facebook.com/joe.campersales. • Lafayette Lions Pancake • Surrounded By History, Blue Breakfast, Lafayette Community Earth County Historical Society’s Saturday, March 22-23 Friday-Sunday, March 14-16 Center, 9 am-1pm. Lafayette Area annual fundraising gala, Centen- • Equinox Fair—Art, Music, • “The Compleat Wrks of Wllm Lions fundraiser for community nial Student Ballroom, Minnesota Transformation, Best Western Shkspr (Abridged)” by New Ulm projects. Info: 507-240-0048. State University, Mankato. Theme: Conference Center, 1111 Range St, Actors Community Theatre. “Banking on Blue Earth County” North Mankato, noon-midnight. Humorous look at all the great Monday, March 17 looking at the history of financial Live music, vendors, workshops. plays in short scenes and • Bethany Band Homecoming institutions in Blue Earth County. Info & tickets: interpretations. Info: Concert, Trinity Chapel, Bethany Info & cost: 507-345-5566 or 507-304-3363 or Full- newulmact.com or Lutheran College, Mankato, 7 pm. [email protected]. [email protected]. 507-359-9990. Band returns from spring tour to perform for home audience, free Friday & Saturday, • CAST Musical, “In St. Louis At will offering. March 21-22 The Fair,” New Ulm Community Info: [email protected]. • Prairie Piecemakers Quilt Guild Center, 600 North German St., Quilt Show, New Ulm Event Cen-

26 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Sunday, March 23 Saturday, March 29 Saturday, April 5 Monday, April 7 • MLC College Choir Home • Luck of the Irish, Johnson Hall, • Sunshine & Style Spring • CASTLE Spring Term begins, Concert, Chapel of the Christ, Nicollet County Fairgrounds. Décor Seminar, A&W Furniture, New Ulm Community Center, 600 Martin Luther College, Fundraiser for John Ireland Redwood Falls, 11 am. Free. Info: N. German, 3-5 pm. Courses in New Ulm. 3:00 pm. Info: Catholic School, fun night of www.awfurniture.com. the arts, history and science for 507-354-8221 or mlc-wels.edu. games, dinner, and silent and members that learn for the joy of live auctions for adults. Info: Saturday & Sunday, April 5-6 learning. Info: Tuesday, March 25 churchofstpeter.org. • River Hills Women’s Weekend newulmseniors.org/castle.html, • 11th Annual Women Celebrating Show, River Hills Mall, Mankato, 10 [email protected], Women: Celebrating Women of • Refresh & Renew Spring am-9 pm. Catering to home and or 507-354-3212. Character, Courage and Commit- Décor Seminar, A&W Furniture, personal aspects of a woman’s ment, C. Charles Jackson Center Redwood Falls, 11 am. Free. Info: life. Info: 507-387-7469. Tuesday, April 8 at Gustavus Adolphus College. www.awfurniture.com. • Alice Lind Play Reading Society, 5:30 pm. Info & tickets: Friday-Sunday, April 4-6 and Lind House. 622 Center Street, www.stpetercommunityedonline, • Gardening classes, A to Zinnia, April 11-13 New Ulm, 7-9 pm. stpeterherald.com or New Ulm: Sow Easy Vegetables • “The Lions, the Witch & the Info: 507-359-9990. 507-934-3048. Seed Starting class, 9 am, free; Wardrobe,” by Merely Players Herb Gardening Planting Class, 10 Community Theatre, Lincoln Thursday, April 10 • Commercial Fishing on the am. Info/fee: 507-359-9900. Community Center, Mankato. 7:30 • Herb Garden Planting class, A to Minnesota River program, Library pm Fri. & Sat., 2 pm Sunday. Travel Zinnia, New Ulm, 5:30 pm. Info: Meeting Room, New Ulm Library, • Owls of Minnesota program, to Narnia through the magic of 507-359-9900. 6 pm. Multimedia presentation by Fort Ridgely State Park Commis- theatre. local river historian Ron Bolduan; sary Building, rural Fairfax, 2 pm. Info: merelyplayers.com. Friday & Saturday, family program. Unique characteristics of owls April 11 & 12 and 12 kinds found in Minnesota. Saturday, April 5 • Sleepy Eye City Wide Garage Wednesday, March 26 Info: 507-384-8890 or • Viva Vivaldi Show, Mankato Sales. Info: • Spring Instrumental Festival, [email protected]. YMCA. 11 am. Mankato Sym- http://www.sleepyeye-mn.com. Trinity Chapel, Bethany Lutheran phony Orchestra’s free family College, 7 pm, free. Sunday, March 30 concert, fun-filled performance of Saturday, April 12 Info: [email protected]. • Minnesota Valley Lutheran live classical music and interactive • Bunnies, Bling & Blossoms High School’s Annual Booster educational activities, suitable for Spring Décor Seminar, A&W • Vettern College Choir in Concert, Club Auction, 45638 561st Ave., all ages. Info: mankatosymphony. Furniture, Redwood Falls, 11 am. Bernadotte Lutheran Church, New Ulm. 11 am free will lunch, com/family-series-viva-vivaldi. Free. Info: rural Lafayette, 7:30 pm. Part of 1 pm auction. Over 300 items www.awfurniture.com. American concert tour by choir from tropical vacations to home Sunday, April 6 from Jonkopping, Sweden. Free canned goods and everything • Mankato Symphony Orchestra • Spring Fling Benefit Dinner will offering. in between. Info: mvl.org/mvl- presents the Mill City Strings, and Silent Auction for Ney Info: 507-240-0048. events/annual-auction. Wittenberg College Center Nature Center, Caribou Gun Club Auditorium, Martin Luther Banquet Hall, Le Sueur. Featuring Thursday, March 27 Wednesday & Friday, College, New Ulm, 1 p.m. naturalist Al Batt. Info: http://ney- • Vettern College Choir in April 2 & 4 Classical chamber music. center.org/events/spring-fling. Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus • Air Plant Care class, A to Zinnia, Adolphus College, 7:30 pm. Part New Ulm, 5:30 pm Wed. and 10 • Kids Terrarium class, A to Zinnia, of American concert tour by choir am Fri, free. Info: 507-359-9900. New Ulm. Info & cost: from Jonkopping, Sweden. Free. 507-359-9900. Info: [email protected]. Thursday, April 3 • Laney Lu’s Boutique Open • Herb Gardening Planting class, A House Spring Reveal Party, A&W Permanent to Zinnia, New Ulm, 5:30 pm. Info Furniture, Redwood Falls, 5-7 pm. & cost: 507-359-9900. Free. Info: Cosmetic Tattooing www.awfurniture.com. by Staci Lowe Friday-Sunday, March 28-30 Eyebrow • Eyeliner • Lip Liner • Full Lip • Specializes in Corrective • Southern MN Home & Builders Friday & Saturday, April 4-5 Show, Verizon Wireless Center, • Springfield Home, Yard and www.permanentcosmeticsbystaci.com Mankato. Fri. 5-9 pm; Sat. 10 am-6 Garden Show, Springfield Area before After pm; Sun. noon-5 pm. Displays, Community Center, 33 S. Cass, 507-388-7500 seminars. Info: verizonwireless- Springfield. Info: 507-723-3517 or — Gift cards available — centermn.com. [email protected]. 11 Years Experience Licensed by State of Minnesota www.salon07/lowe.html Eyebrow, eyeliner & lip treatment 235973

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 27 Recipe

A Fish Challenge April graff The Lenten season is underway and many people choose to not eat MS, RD, LD meat on Fridays. To some, “no meat on Fridays” means either cheese Hy-Vee Dietitian pizza or square-shaped fried fish. This month is a great time to experiment with new recipes and varieties. A whole world of n ReSponSible CHoiCe SeAfooD delicious fish and seafood meals is waiting. Certain types of seafood are overfished and/or are harvested in a manner that causes undue stress to the environment or other marine The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings life. Our commitment to protect ocean resources is an integral part of our sustainability mission to do business in a manner that promotes (3.5 ounces cooked or ¾ cup flaked) of fish each week. Why eat more the well-being of our customers, employees, communities, and the fish? When scientists compare diets around the global environment. globe, the healthiest have one thing in common: The American When you purchase seafood that is responsibly farmed or harvested lots of seafood. People in Iceland, for example, Heart Association - you are supporting best practices that will help to ensure a healthy have the world’s highest per capita consump recommends supply of seafood for generations to come. tion of seafood-a stunning 220 pounds per eating two It is Hy-Vee’s intent to sell high-quality seafood that not only is safe for year. Icelanders also have one of the longest life servings (3.5 consumption but also is harvested or raised in a manner that provides expectancies of any nationality-nearly 81 years. for its long-term viability (sustainability) while minimizing damage ounces cooked or to the environment and other sea life. Seafood products bearing the Fish isn’t the only reason, but it helps. What ¾ cup flaked) of “Responsible Choice” symbol meet Hy-Vee’s policy and are caught or makes seafood healthy? First, it’s a lean protein farmed in a responsible manner. For more information, visit hy-vee. option, with very little saturated fat. Also, the fish each week. com. - fat it does contain is mostly good-for-you ome n SuStAinAble SeAfooD ga-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats that have Hy-Vee promotes Sustainable seafood, which comes from sources, teriyaki Salmon been shown to protect against heart disease whether fished or farmed, that can maintain or increase production in the long-term without jeopardizing the structure or function of ingReDientS: serves 4 and some forms of cancer; reduce blood pressure; and help control affected ecosystems. • 1/3 c. Hy-Vee teriyaki sauce inflammation. • 1 tsp Hy-Vee honey n loweSt pRiCeS • 2 tbsp Hy-Vee Select olive oil Here in the U.S., we barely eat 16 pounds of seafood, on average, We don’t think you should have to pay more for quality seafood, and • 12 oz salmon, cut into 4 pieces each year - and our average life expectancy is 78 years. That’s one our large network of stores ensures our ability to offer you a large • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds selection for less. Stop in and compare! • 1 tsp Hy-Vee cracked black pepper reason why the 2010 Dietary Guidelines made the important step • Sliced scallions, optional of singling out seafood, recommending two servings per week in Hy-Vee is one of the only retailers in the nation with our own place of beef, pork or poultry. As for omega-3s, the Food & Drug USDC Lot Inspector. Several years ago, Hy-Vee became the first All you Do: Administration (FDA) hasn’t yet set a Reference Daily Intake (RDI). retailer in the nation to hire its own U.S. Department of Com- 1. In a small bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, hon- merce lot inspector to ensure the quality, safety and integrity of the ey and olive oil. Pour into a resealable plastic But the USDA suggests the average person with a 2,000-calorie diet fresh seafood it buys. The USDC inspector is stationed onsite at the bag. Add salmon. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or should get 1.75g of EPA and DHA-subsets of omega-3 that are most PDI distribution facility in Ankeny, Iowa, where he routinely checks overnight. abundant in fish-each week. That equals about 250mg per day. (A incoming shipments of fresh seafood and rejects those that do not 2. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. 3.5-ounce serving of wild salmon will more than cover your needs.) meet Hy-Vee’s standards. 3. Remove salmon from marinade. Discard marinade. Place salmon, skin side down, on a Your challenge this month is to eat fish at least twice a week. If you’re foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with non-stick Photo ID: Riverfront store meat dept.: Mark D., (meat cooking spray. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes already doing that, focus on trying new, sustainable species. manager) Darrell C., Jim A. (asst. meat manager) Scott M. Hilltop meat dept.: Randy B., Todd B., Aaron N. (seafood or until salmon flakes easily and is cooked manager), Brad C., Kenny N., Scott Walker (meat manager) through. Top with toasted sesame seeds and

232244 black pepper. Garnish with scallions, if desired.

RiveRfRont Hilltop 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. 28 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014Mankato, Mn Mankato, Mn 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Recipe

232244 black pepper. Garnish with scallions, if desired.

RiveRfRont Hilltop 410 S. Riverfront Dr. 2010 Adams St. Mankato, Mn Mankato, Mn RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 29 507-625-1107 507-625-9070 Be Well My feet are killing me!

If you are like me, you have not been immune to the sharp, stabbing, severe foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis. It was one of the most unpleasant experiences of my life, but luckily for me I was referred to a physical therapist and am now pain free. Little did I know at the time that I would become a physical therapist myself and have the opportunity to treat this debilitating condition. Sources vary, but approximately 1 in 10 people will experience plantar fasciitis usually between the ages of 45-65 years of age. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse syndrome of the tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot called the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia forms the arch of your foot by connecting your calcaneus (heel bone) to your toes. This condition usually presents as a gradual onset of pain in the heel or arch of the foot. The pain is usually worse with the first few steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting or standing. Excessive or repetitive loading of the tissues has been suggested as a causative factor with plantar fasciitis; however, the exact cause remains unclear. Some believe that this condition may be associated with heel spurs; however, newer evidence suggests that heel spurs do not cause plantar fasciitis. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 1 in 10 people have heel spurs but only 1 in 20 of those with heel spurs have pain. This is good news! Risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include Try these 5 simple steps increased time spent on your feet during the day, decreased ankle to help alleviate your plantar fascia pain: range of motion, obesity, new or increased activity, and high arches. Some of these risk factors can be addressed with physical Rest. therapy treatment and education; however, the natural course of Take the time to let your tissues heal. symptoms is 10 months. Approximately 10-20% of people may 1. continue to have pain after this time frame. Ice. Conservative treatment options are available to help treat Place a water bottle in the freezer until it is chilled then plantar fasciitis. Symptoms improve quicker if you seek treatment 2. roll along the bottom of your foot focusing on the arch. sooner after the onset of your pain. It has been said that plantar fasciitis is due to inflammation, but some studies have shown that there are no signs of inflammation with this condition. As a Stretch! Focus on the Achilles tendon by standing with result, the focus of treatment has shifted from anti-inflammatory a stagger stance and leaning into a wall. Stretch the treatments to tissue remodeling treatment approaches. Treatment 3. plantar fascia by gently pulling back your big toe. recommendations include: Achilles tendon and plantar fascia stretching, ankle range of motion, foot intrinsic muscle strengthen- Wear proper footwear. ing, soft tissue mobilization, modification of training programs, use Sorry ladies but kick those heels to the side and wear of an orthotic, and night splints. 4. some supportive shoes with a little cushion in the heel! If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact your physical therapist today to find out Modify how we can help. RVW your training program for a more gradual progression of by April Erickson, PT, DPT, ATRIC 5. activity. Wenger Physical Therapy wengerphysicaltherapy.com

30 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Be Well Understanding the Thyroid System Part II - Continued from February issue

s you can see, the thyroid is a complex gland that must work 2. Chew your food. Whenever someone asks me why they synergistically with other organs and glands for its proper have undigested food in their stool, the answer is quite simple; it Afunction. If you are feeling symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, wasn’t chewed long enough before it got swallowed. If you chew low energy, puffy eyes, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, thinning thoroughly enough, you can even break apart the nuts and seeds hair and/or feeling cold. Or are feeling anxious, rapid heart rate, that often pass through completely undigested. Just a note, that diarrhea, high blood pressure, “bugged eyes”, and the ability to “eat most nuts and seeds have enzymes that inhibit digestion. It is what anything without gaining weight”, I suggest that you find a holistic keeps them from sprouting in less than ideal settings. and/or functional medicine doctor in your area who can run all of 3. Reduce exposure and use of Halides: You may remember the thyroid tests, but will also check the function of your Adrenal from chemistry class, that fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine are all Glands, Liver, Pituitary Gland and overall health. Just like putting in the same row on the periodic table of elements. Because they any yogurt on the shelf doesn’t fix the underlying issue, treating have similar properties, fluorine, chlorine and bromine can push out only the thyroid gland might not relieve the symptoms of thyroid iodine. Fluorine is in most tap water, and toothpaste. Chlorine is malfunction. also in our tap water and in swimming pools, and many processed http://www.holisticmedicine.org/ foods. Bromine is in a lot of baked products as potassium bromide. What can you do to have a healthy thyroid? The same things Not only is it important to get iodine in the diet, but reducing you do to have a healthy body! halides will ensure that the iodine that you are taking in will not be 1. I recommend to all of my patients, to eat fresh fruits and replaced by one of the halides. vegetables. If you consume enough leafy greens, you can get 4. Exercise Regularly: This is just part of overall health, no enough protein (amino acids), and calcium. After all, a cow doesn’t matter what illness someone may have. eat meat or drink milk, yet it has quite a bit of muscle mass, and 5. Maintain Healthy Relationships: Unhealthy relationships bone mass. And it produces milk which contains calcium. If you still can cause a lot of stress, so having healthy relationships will reduce prefer to eat meat, organic is best, and beef should be grass fed. stress. 6. Learn and utilize techniques to reduce stress such as yoga, guided meditation, hypnosis, The Work, and many others. 7. Utilize Complementary and Alternative medicine such as Taking your selfies Aromatherapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Massage, Reflexology etc. from the shoulders I hope this article was helpful in understanding not only the thy- up these days? roid, but how the overall function of the body plays a role in having a healthy thyroid, and a healthy body. RVW • References: Costanzo, Linda S. Physiology Third Don’t be too hard on yourself! Edition. 2006 Just Do something about it! www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc3765747/ http://thewholejourney.com/ Mention this ad for by Dr. Jan Taplin, Chrysalis Chiropractic LLC Mankato, MN 56001, 507-625-9355 $10 OFF Alpha Fuzion Spa Package! www.gentlebackcare.com and/or $20 OFF Biogenie Body Treatment!

Biogenie Body Treatment Alpha Fuzion Spa • Immediate Inch Loss • Weight Loss Your local, independent Deb Emilee • Lift, Tone & Tighten • Reduce Stress agent will be there. Bridget • Reduce Cellulite • Detoxify • Detoxify • Relieve Pain C.O. BrOwn AgenCy/ McClure AgenCy 325 N. Riverfront Dr., Mankato Body Concepts 888/507-387-5460 507-345-4747 Carrie Mary Brenda 1609 N. Riverfront Dr. Suite 105 www.cobrown.com 507.381.5467 bodyconceptsmakato.com 232265 236222

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 31 Y WCA’s “Women of Distinction” to be held March 20 at Verizon Wireless Center

Three Mankato area women will join a celebrated list of past During retirement, Sue continues to volunteer two mornings a week recipients of the Mankato YWCA’s “Women of Distinction” honor to be at her church’s day care facility, completing her fifth year of service. featured at the organization’s annual event to be held March 20 at the And she also delivers weekly meals to seniors in her community. Verizon Wireless Center. “Sue is an amazing woman with a free spirit who has been providing Susan Frost, Cheryl Hammond and Julie Hawkers will be the health and health education for diverse cultures of women, children honored guests at the YWCA Women of Distinction Event, joining over and infants most of her life. She is a born leader.” 120 past honorees dating back to 1973. A social hour and silent auction will begin at 5 p.m., with dinner and program to follow at 6:30 p.m. Cheryl Hammond Tickets can be purchased on the YWCA website at www.manka- “Throughout the years, Cheryl has embodied the YWCA mission of toywca.org or by calling 507-345-4629. The deadline for ticket sales is eliminating racism and empowering women through programs she March 12. The event is presented by Jones Metal Products. developed…She is passionate about reaching into the community to The objective of the Women of Distinction honors is to recognize build relationships and help others take positive steps in their lives.” women from the Greater Mankato area “whose achievements over Cheryl Hammond started at the Mankato Family YWCA 16 years a sustained period of time have made a significant contribution to ago and is currently serving as Director of community life and embody the mission of the YWCA.” Achievements Social Responsibility. In 2006, Cheryl was through employment or volunteer service are considered. asked to lead and develop the Brother/ The YWCA will also be presenting the Distinctive Difference Award Sister Mentor Program that provides which recognizes a business or organization from the Mankato positive role models for children in the area whose achievements “have made a significant contribution to Greater Mankato community. She con- advancing women and/or people of color into upper management tinued to expand mentoring by adding a and leadership positions.” school-based program in 2011. This year’s Distinctive Difference Award winner is the Mankato She also developed the “Real Dove branch of Eide Bailly, the certified public accountant and business Beauty Workshop,” which helps girls advisor firm. Eide Bailly has 22 offices in 10 states and has been in increase their self-esteem and body existence since 1917. image; an outreach soccer program for under-served and refugee children; a Susan Frost Youth-in-Government Program that “Susan Frost’s lifelong mission of education, promoting health and empowers high school students and strengthening confidence in women with children in their homes, truly positive role models for girls in mentoring mirrors the YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering programs. women.” Other programs she developed include When the Open Door Health Center Y-links, one for children who cannot afford or are not engaged in after- (ODHC), a community health center school programming, as well as partnering with other community serving the uninsured and under-insured, efforts that give out free school backpacks, shoes and eye glasses to opened in Mankato in 1994, Sue was one families in need. the nurse managers, providing leadership On a personal level, Cheryl was involved with her church in bringing skills and patient care during those early awareness to human trafficking issues, and also spearheaded a years. Professionally, Sue received three “Simplify Campaign” in which assists community efforts to provide nursing awards from the Minnesota household goods to refugee families. In 2007, she was chosen to be Nurses Association in recognition of her apart of an international leadership program held in the Dominican leadership, nursing skills and community Republic and Haiti. service efforts. “Cheryl’s biggest accomplishments are first, being a mom to her four Sue is also recognized for her willing- children, and a wife…As one of her colleagues says, ‘She challenges ness to house college students of diverse herself and the rest of us to be better at what we do.’ “ ethnic, racial and lifestyle backgrounds. She has mentored students for the past Julie Hawker 20 years. “Julie Hawker’s purpose and passion naturally align with the YWCA She is also an active member of the Mankato Zonta Club, whose mis- mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. She inspires sion is to improve the status of women and children worldwide. Sue women to reach new levels through her actions and perspective.” has served two terms as president. In 2005, she received the Zontian Julie is currently the Community Development and Marketing Man- of the Year Award. She is also a member of the YWCA and serves on its ager at Lloyd Management, overseeing marketing initiatives for over advisory committee for the “Walking in Two Worlds and the “Readiness 100 real estate properties. She also works on community development to Learn” community outreach programs. projects designed to build effective alliances in the multi-housing

32 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 industry. As president of the Greater Mankato Multi-Housing Association, she connects the property management industry, support service agencies, and the Mankato Department of Public Safety. She is also the chairperson for the Greater Minnesota Committee of the Minnesota Multi-Housing Association. Julie has spearheaded many community events, including “The Venue,” a free, faith-based art and music happening. She’s facilitated a monthly “Marketplace Ministry” group, at which local professionals discuss leadership topics. She is also a national trainer for Royal Family Kids’ Camp, which provides a camp experience to abused and neglected children. And she serves on the VINE board. Recently, Julie assisted in making “The Tapestry Project” a reality. This program brings community members (Minnesota Council of Churches, City of Mankato, and Lloyd Management) together to help refugees adjust to living in a new community. And she further connects newcomers with local residents through the YWCA’s “Emerging Leader/Host Initiative.” “Her newcomer friends share that, ‘Julie is a strong voice for those who don’t have a voice and is empathetic and genuine in her caring of others.’ Her long-time friends say, ‘Julie is a compassionate caregiver to our community, a builder of bridges among businesses and neighbors, a visionary…She always sees the inner beauty and potential in others that gives them hope and dignity.” Putting yourself first Eide Bailly “Eide Bailly is dedicated to helping diverse employees advance = putting her first. their careers and professional lives.” Eide Bailly’s “First Focus” committee was developed for the purpose of ensuring that its women professionals are as likely to succeed in the firm as their male colleagues. This committee oversees communication within the firm on issues impacting That’s right, heart disease is the #1 killer of women, including gender differences, communication strategies and educational opportunities. It’s an effort to support Eide Bailly’s women. So take care of yourself and get female professionals navigate their careers from associate to checked today. We can help. Only Mayo partner level. The committee also connects women with senior firm leaders who serve as resources, mentor and educators throughout Clinic Health System brings the knowledge of their tenure. Of Eide Bailly’s over 1,200 employees, more than half are female, more than 230 Mayo Clinic heart specialists with 44 women partners and 161 managers. and one of the top-ranked heart programs in In the Greater Mankato area, Eide Bailly employees and partners contribute time to many organizations: Junior Achievement, the nation right to your neighborhood. Greater Mankato Area United Way, LEEP, Twin Rivers Council for the Arts, Mankato Area Foundation, Greater Mankato Growth, Mankato Symphony Orchestra, and the YWCA. Eide Bailly employees also Assess your risk at are active in service clubs, including Rotary, Zonta, BPW, Lions and Sertoma. mayoclinichealthsystem.org/getchecked. The Greater Mankato Area office of Eide Bailly also conducts internal fund-raisers for ECHO Food Shelf, Salvation Army, Feed- ing Our Communities Back Pack Food Program, and the Holiday Sharing Tree. It also sponsors and has been a recipient of the Martin Luther King Jr. Pathfinder Award and the Zonta Fall Fashion Show in support of Open Door Health Center. Eide Bailly sponsors the YWCA Women’s Leadership Conference and the firm is a long-time sponsor of the Women of Distinction event. RVW

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 33 Spring Planting for Winter Interest

It’s almost spring, and the absolute last thing I want to think and flame willow Salix( x ‘Flame’) are large shrubs with bright yellow about is next winter. I used to love winter indiscriminately, but right and orange twigs, respectively. These colors are almost shocking now, I’m seasonally unemployed and living alone in a studio against a snowy backdrop. apartment. The weather has mostly been too cold for de Bark texture is equally important. Ornamental outside adventures. I’m stir-crazy, to say the least. Gar n Ga trees such as ‘Crimson Frost’ birch, amur choke- • l When I do manage to venture outside, I find al • G cherry (Prunus maackii), and three-flower G a myself constantly examining the expired r maple (Acer triflorum) have multi-colored n d and dormant plant material in the sur- e e exfoliating bark, providing dimension d n rounding landscapes. “Winter gardening” r to the garden, especially in the winter.

might be a foreign concept for us Min- a G Recently, I’ve also been admiring the

G a

• nesotans, but in reality, we have a wide l dormant branches of ‘Tiger Eyes’ sumac

variety of options for making our winter • (Rhus typhina ‘Bailtiger’), which has a

landscapes interesting and beautiful. We G fuzzy brown stems and a funky jagged

just need to plan ahead. r growth pattern.

e d

Despite my current personal vendetta e

against winter, I think March is a perfect G Flowers

•

time to think about what to plant this

•

a n r e upcoming season so that next winter’s gardens d Yes, that’s right, there are some plants that have color, texture, and flair, even if we gardeners will actually flower during a Minnesota winter! are forced to admire them through the filter of our Common witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a frosty windows. rather large shrub that flowers after it drops its leaves in late So, what plant characteristics make for good winter interest? October and early November. The spidery yellow flowers have a spicy fragrance, creating a lively display while most plants are in the Evergreen foliage process of shutting down.

Broadleaf evergreens can provide diversity among the familiar Once winter is on its way out, the herbaceous perennial Christmas needled types commonly associated with year-round foliage. A rose (Helloborus) will bloom. Late February and early March bring ‘PJM’ rhododendron, for example, will retain its leaves, often turning about its delicate blossoms, ranging from white to dark purple a bronzed purple color during the winter. to green. Helleborus has evergreen foliage and can survive both Other common needled evergreens can have unexpected foliage snow and sub-zero temperatures. Since it’s only about 12 inches colors. ‘Mops’ false cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera) has bright high, helleborus is especially impressive planted en masse, like a yellow needles that really pop against a white background. ‘Wichita groundcover. Blue’ juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) has airy grayish-blue needles that retain their color year-round. When it comes to plain green Dried Seedpods needles (which are also beautiful!), my favorite evergreen is the hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), which has delicate flowing branches. There are countless plants with seedpods that can add to the ‘Emerald Fountain’ is a more compact variety for smaller yards. winter landscape. In the past, I’ve almost always cut seed-heads off after the flowers dry up, mostly because I want my perennials Persistent berries to expend their energy on foliage and root growth instead of seed production. But lately, I’ve realized the aesthetic value of dried Shrubs and trees with berries are another focal point of the seedpods in the winter landscape. I especially like the feathery tops winter landscape. Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a of Astilbe species and the chunky pods of butterfly weed (Asclepias medium-sized shrub with clusters of dark purple berries that last tuberosa). Minnesota gardening doesn’t necessarily end once the into the middle of winter. Many flowering crabapple trees also have snow falls. Treating the landscape as a fruits that persist on branches until spring. While most crabapple year-round entity can keep you engaged berries are red, cultivars ‘Lancelot’ and ‘Harvest Gold’ boast showy during even the dreariest winter days. Be gold berries. Snowberry (Symphoricarpos) is a smaller shrub that creative and experimental! And when you hit produces soft white or pinkish berries. the garden centers this spring, think about planting for winter interest. Next year at this Textured/colored bark time, you’ll be glad you did! RVW Laura Schwarz, a New Ulm native, is a Yearly defoliation makes bark an unintentional front-runner in horticulturist with Tangletown Gardens in the garden. Yellow-twigged dogwood (Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’) Minneapolis.

34 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 You are getting very sleepy... Tips from the Mattress Man

Justin Roberts, the Mankato Mattress Man, As the Mattress Man, you must always get a good night’s sleep, right? can tell you so much about finding the right Well that’s actually a question that customers ask me quite a bit. I mattress it just might put you to sleep! wish I could say yes, but just like most people, the stresses of life can catch up with me too. But, most nights I get good sleep, and one We asked him what women should look for thing’s for sure, I have a really good mattress that definitely helps. and what to consider in their lives to get the Do you have any tips on relaxing prior to going to bed? best mattress for their lifestyle. One of the biggest things is to de-clutter your mind, allow your mind to switch off, have the correct breathing techniques and try to keep your sleep schedule consistent. Another one is creating a So, as the Mattress Man, tell us what a woman should look for comfortable sleep environment in your room; one that doesn’t in- in a mattress? clude watching television, working or eating. Just a space dedicated A woman should look for a mattress that has support, but also a to getting a good night’s sleep. mattress that has some softness that provides extra comfort to most How about women of a certain age who tend to get hot women. flashes at night? What is your advice to them? How can you tell good quality? This is another good question I get. The mattress industry has Good quality can be based and many different things, but a good invested a lot of time and effort into creating new materials to help starting point is the number of coils in a mattress, coil size, softness alleviate some of these issues for women. They have materials such or firmness of the foam used in certain layers of the mattresses, also a as gel memory foam and very breathable latex that can help pull the warranty can play a role and overall comfort. heat away from a women’s body. What if her partner is a lot bigger than she is? Is there Does a woman’s size make a difference in the mattress she something she should be aware of in choosing a mattress? should choose? Women with a bigger partner may want to look for a mattress Yes it can. The bigger someone is the more support they will need. with better support that can hold up a person’s extra weight, this So buying a mattress with more and heavier coils and firmer foams may also mean a firmer mattress that allows the mattress to have less can be key. sleep impressions over time. That way when the time comes to rotate How about kids? What should a mom consider when buying a the mattress you won’t feel a difference. mattress for a child? Is a bed for a 7 year old different from that A person’s bed is one key factor in a good night’s sleep. How of a teen? can the right mattress make a difference? In general I tell women you probably don’t want to get something The right mattress can make a big difference in improving a too soft for young kids. I like to see moms get medium to firmer feel- women’s quality of life, by alleviating back, shoulder and neck prob- ing beds for their kids, but you probably don’t want to go too firm. A lems. As well as giving them a good night’s sleep to feel refreshed huge factor is personal choice, the biggest deciding factor is always and start the day off right. the opinion of the person sleeping on the bed, regardless of the age. Why is a good night’s sleep so elusive for many people? What about price? How does that enter into the equation? Hmm, good question. It can be because of stress from work or Price usually enters into everyone’s equation. People should come other life situations, eating right before bed, change in daily routine into the store planning on taking a little time to really try the mat- or they just don’t have the right mattress. tresses out and I can try and educate them on the products. Allowing What are the benefits to a good night’s sleep? them to purchase the best and most comfortable mattress that’s Oh boy, I could go on all day about this one. Just a few of the within their budget. RVW key benefits of a good night’s sleep would include being more Justin Roberts, Mankato Mattress Man productive, being mentally sharp, emotionally balanced, keeping your metabolism consistent and being full of energy all day long. mankatomattressman.com

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 35 Creating your dream home is all about relationships

Mankato residents Pete and Kelly Matejcek had a dream to have a home in the perfect spot to raise their family. Here they share their experience building that home with the services of John Fritz Homes.

Kelly and Pete Matejcek family with (from left) Finlee, Ava, Wila and Mack. What made you decide to build a new home vs an already existing home? Years ago, we purchased a piece of property where we could picture ourselves raising a family.

River Valley What were your “must haves” for the new home? Our “must haves” included an exterior with a classic look and welcoming front porch. Inside we created an open concept with multifunctional spaces. We wanted to build a new home where we could grow old gracefully. By blending old and new we could create a home-grown feel.

Welcome How was the process working with John Fritz Homes? One word to describe working with John Fritz is “thorough.” John and his team listened to our vision and delivered creative details that exceeded our expecta- tions. John is a great communicator and made the home building process fun Home and exciting! What is your favorite room in the house? The kitchen is our favorite room in the house. Its efficient layout gives us quality Tour family time. What advice would you give those looking to build a home? Be patient and know what you like. Visualize yourself in the space. We spent years making our dream a reality. This will ensure that you love your end result!

36 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Comments from John Fritz Construction: (Pictured at Right)

Tell us how you work with the customer to achieve the final results they are looking for? Spending a lot of time up front is important to me when working with a new customer. Having a true understanding of what they see as their end results of a project only helps the process go smoother. I have clients that have a very clear idea of what they want in a home and clients that may know the size of home they’d like, but need complete direction in the planning process. Either way, this is where the relationship begins. Understand- ing the products that are available, finish options, style, size, time lines, etc. It helps that I am a good listener!

How do you get your inspiration? I originally got my inspiration from growing up on a farm. I’ve always worked. There was always something to fix or build. I really enjoy taking on a project and seeing it through its completion. Now my inspiration really comes from the relationships I build with my clients. It’s exciting to be a part of the process of building someone’s home. It’s very personal. There is a lot of work that is involved, but that end result is what keeps me moving on to the next project.

How does the location come into play when designing a home? Usually by the time I see my clients they have had an architect or draftsperson draw the house plan according to the land they own. There may need to be some adjusting to the plan in order to truly accent the property. You always want to consider how you see yourself living on that land, sunrises, sunsets, views from a picture window and so on.

How do you take the customers ideas with the reality of what is doable and make it happen? Listening to my clients ideas and helping them understand the time and costs of building today is a very important piece to the process of building a home. It’s really important for clients to have a budget. It’s also just as important for them to understand what their priorities are and what they may be willing to let go of. I spend a lot of time researching products and understanding what’s new in the building industry so my clients have as many options as possible when it comes to the materials used. I also pride myself on the relationships I have with my subcontractors. Anyone who works with me is truly part of a team. I believe the subcontractors I use are giving me fair prices for their services and I trust the work they are doing for me.

What should a potential home owner know before making a decision to build? Before building a home, people should understand that it is a process. My job is to make it as easy as possible. Being prepared, What do you enjoy most about building homes for people? asking questions, and communicating are important to the details What I truly love most about building homes are my relationships that go into building a home but most importantly is the relationship with my clients, which really become my friends. Like I said earlier, it’s you have with your contractor. People should feel comfortable with very personal to be a part of this process. There is so much commu- the person they choose to work with. You spend a lot of time with nication involved it’s impossible not to really get to know each other. this person and there is a lot of communication involved. I believe my For many people, building a home is a dream of theirs. I get to be clients have a trusting relationship with me. They truly know that I’m instrumental in making that dream become a reality. working hard to give them the best end result. This is very important I’m also very excited to be part of the growth in Mankato. Mankato is to me and to how I run my business. changing in such positive ways, I like to think that some of the work that I do is a part of that. RVW

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38 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 241 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato, MN 507.345.8084

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 39 fashion Fridays

Go from resort wear to home wear with ease

I hope that this column will bring some warmth to you and hopefully you are lucky enough to escape the tundra for some sunshine and sand this winter! There is a lot of great resort wear for you out there to choose from, but let me share some of my favorite looks for vacation. Rompers (see photo)- I love wearing rompers for a night out with wedged sandals or for a day look I’ll pair it with a pair of flat sandals. Dress it up with some jewelry, such as a statement necklace or arm candy. Maxi Dress (see photos)- This is an easy and effortless look that is a must for vacation or summer. Maxi dresses are so comfortable and they are great for day or a night out. Taking one maxi and styling it a number of different ways will definitely make packing easy! Depending on the length of the maxi you can wear flats or wedges. Bright colors are great for the beach and you can accomplish this with clothing or accessories. The black maxi dress is a great base to add a bright statement necklace or colored scarf. Don’t forget to add in some prints into the mix of your resort wear. Geometric prints (see photo) will be very popular this season and would look great on a maxi dress. Now after you return from a trip you’ll be ready for spring, right? Right now we are in a transition period with spring clothes hitting the retail stores, but with this weather we are unable to wear it. So This dress is perfect for adding some let’s talk about dresses and how to wear them a print and fun into your wardrobe! few different ways. I love this paired with navy or gray Most dresses can be transitioned from winter to tights and then adding cognac spring, just by adding a different colored necklace, colored knee-high boots. For the a spring colored scarf, losing the tights/leggings, spring it is perfect belted with a and adding a different shoe. When you are cream wedge. For the office the making a purchase it’s great to navy blue blazer pairs with it know you have many different perfectly. options for wearing it. Can’t wait to start focusing on spring trends in the next coming weeks! RVW By Kyley Hillesheim, courtesy of Gallery 512 Boutique

40 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 Looking for someone who is different …

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Achieve your goals. Live your values. Work with Purpose®. For Career Opportunities in your area contact Nick Johnson at 507-289-6325.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Thrivent Financial Book Your representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. For additional important disclosure information, please visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. 25972A R2-13 ©2013 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Thrivent.com Groom’sReserve a space in the Dinner restaurant today! 920 Madison Ave 234425 779025 232305 (507) 388-6845 - [email protected] Mankato, MN 56001

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 41 Treasures.When you visit the fun, unique shops in the Minnesota . river. valley communities, you’ll discover special, one-of-a kind treasures such as those featured here. From collectibles and custom jewelry, to ethnic foods and hand-crafted items you are sure to strike gold!

All About Attitude Make a powerful fashion statement by wearing and pairing eye-catching, modern metals, that are made in Sweden. The unique designs offer a contemporary and feminine look that makes you stand out! CreekSide Boutique 120 N Augusta Ct. Suite 101 Mankato, Minnesota 56001 507-344-1656

Beauty and the Bath From standard lavatories to custom showers, add elegance to your bath with Onyx. Over 60 colors to choose from. GET NOTICED Made in the USA Hot new styles from Puhlmann Lumber & Design the Big City for prom. 301 1st S. St. New Ulm, 507-354-4914 Featuring one of a kind www.puhlmannlumber.com fashions from; Tony Bowls Silk Scarves by Paparazzi Wanderlustings Blush Prom A collection of hand Jovani painted silk scarves by Scala artist Caitlin Peters of Wan- Lafee derlustings. Each piece Encore Consignment & is a one-of-a-kind original Bridal Boutique work of art available in 311 N Riverfront Dr sizes 30”x30” and 22”x22”. Mankato 507.386.0861 Semblance www.encoremankato. 16 N Minnesota St. Suite B com New Ulm, MN 56073 www.shopsemblance.com

Turn Heads especially your bride’s, when you make an entrance in the Make a Statement Desire tuxedo by Michael Kors from A statement necklace is a great way to Savvi Formalwear. This tux stands make any outfit a memorable one, and out among the others, just like you. the best part is that it works equally with Sisters Bridal & Tux casual and formal wear. Stop in today and 1201 S. Broadway, New Um, MN shop our vast display of statement neck- 507-359-7204 laces and let your outfit do the talking! www.sistersbridalandtux.com Gallery 512 204 N. Minnesota Street, Downtown New Ulm. 507-354-5120 Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/gallery512boutique

42 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 One of a kind…Gifts from the Kitchen Discover Benjamin Moore! Are Your Dimples Out of Place? Become creative and gift your favorite wine A unique color palette that reflects your Slim Line cellulite cream can help and food lover with a personalized wine or individual style beautifully. The high- you take care of that! cooking accessory, available with photo- quality paint a home like yours deserves. Pure ingredients used to graphs or monograms. Choose from wine Design Home Center complement cellulite reduction bottle insulators, cutting boards, cake pans and much more. Stop in today to discover Highway 14 West, New Ulm, MN services and body contouring these exciting gift options. designhomecenter.com treatments. Available at Body Concepts The Stationery Store by Carlson Craft 507. 238.84 4 0 1609 N. Riverfront Dr. Suite 105 1750 Tower Blvd., Mankato 507-625-0547 507.381.5467 www.stationerygift.carlsoncraft.com bodyconceptsmakato.com

Album Frames Bunnies! Why decorate with your treasured Black and white rustic Dutch vinyl? Because mp3’s won’t stick on bunnies from Sullivan are the the wall. Many colors and styles to perfect accent to your home at choose from. Cool Comfort Easter or any time of the year. Shayds of Color The Amoena Kelly bra’s Breathable micro- Hop in to see these and dozens 2 S. Minnesota Street, fiber fabric keeps you cool by wicking away of other styles of bunnies. New Ulm. 507-354-1120 moisture, padded shoulder straps, and back LAMBRECHTS band to provide extra support. Bra sizes 119 North Minnesota Street 32A – 52K. New Ulm, MN 507-233-4350 Bellaforma www.lambrechtsgifts.net 1020 E. Bridge St., Redwood Falls, MN 507-637-1770 www.bellaformaboutique.com

Extreme Cuteness Is there anything cuter than these snuggly baby slipper booties? Animal character or budding ballerina adds whimsical cozy charm. Splendid Nest 20 Minnesota Street, New Ulm, MN 507-354-NEST (6378)

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 43 More Treasures. . .

Stress Less This luscious moisturizing creme can help reduce the effects of stress and creates your own personal spa experience. Penazz Hair & Day Spa Unique Island Details 101 North Minnestoa Street This kitchen island is functional New Ulm, MN 507.359.1229 AND beautiful. Customizable to penazz.com complement any kitchen scheme, this piece will inspire and impress! Route 1 Interiors 101 S. Minnesota Street, Sweet Dreams Downtown New Ulm. 507-354-8025 Queen 2pc Set- Alternating 850 www.route1interiors.com response coil system greatly reduce partner disturbance caused from “roll together” Posturized Lumbar Support, Foam encased edge support, Comfort Layers, Memory Wine and Music Night Foam Cool GEL/Visco pillow top for Cozy Up Luxurious comfort and support, Create a distinct contemporary look. Two In the Lounge 15yr warranty. wall-mount models provide an instant upgrade Thursday Nights Mankato Mattress Man to almost any space. Hang it on the wall, plug it Nightly wine specials and free 507-351-0709 in and instantly enjoy modern style and 222 Dewey St., Mankato, MN appetizer spread with purchase of $5 or more ambient comfort. every Thursday night. Also, enjoy live music by (Behind Cub Foods, West Mankato) Glowing Hearth & Home Paul Durenberger *Only valid in the Lounge 241 St. Andres Drive, Mankato, MN Charley’s Restaurant & Lounge 507-345-8084 920 Madison Ave | Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 388-6845 | www.charleysrestaurantmankato.com Wine and Ladies Night Inspirational Accent Lamps Every Thursday night in the Lounge! Add ambiance and charm to any room with these unique Enjoy a free appetizer spread with the light boxes featuring interchangeable inspirational mes- purchase of a bottle of wine! sages. Each light box and quote insert is sold separately, Charley’s Restaurant & Lounge so you can choose your favorite message . . . or two . . . 920 Madison Ave, Mankato change out the message for new inspiration! These make 507-388-6845 great wedding or birthday gifts, stop in to see which www.charleysrestaurantmankato.com quote will inspire you! Hang Ups Custom Framing 1351 E Madison Ave., Mankato www.hangupsmankato.com 507-387-7827

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 45 named for the Sewing company Seeds it keeps Photos and story by Ruth Klossner

ew Ulm’s Sewing Seeds Quilt Company is more than a about this, was ‘I’ve done retail and I don’t want to go back to retail.’ shop, it’s a community where people gather to share their I told her we looked at this as ministry—that’s our focus.” love of quilting and to make and renew friendships. As The women bought their building—already handicapped Sewing Seeds reached it’s one-year anniversary, tri-owner accessible—a year ago in October. Although the upstairs was “move- Ann Wendinger commented, “This shop is everything we wanted it in ready,” the lower level was unfinished. That’s where the women’s Nto be and—by that—I don’t necessarily mean retail.” husbands—Dave Wendinger (Ann), Allen Wendinger (Cindy), Jackie Forst, another of the shop owners, added, “It’s a commu- and Glenn Forst—along with other family members and friends, nity…it’s the company we keep.” came into the equation. A lot of work was done after chores in the The women are excited by the sounds they hear in the shop on evenings and on weekends. Under the direction of a friend, more South Minnesota Street in New Ulm…the talking, the sharing, and than 40 special oak display cabinets and cutting tables were built for the laughter. the retail area upstairs. “That’s what makes our shop Sewing Seeds opened in January 2013. The business logo features unique. I think people feel it three “Farmer’s Daughters” quilt block squares to represent the three when they come through women who all grew up in small rural communities around New the door. I hope and pray Ulm—Jackie near Klossner, Ann at St. George, and Cindy at Sigel. we never lose that,” Their rural heritage is evident in everything they do at the business. Wendinger said. Although the official business name, Sewing Seeds Quilt Com- If it weren’t so, pany, reflects the community that gathers at the shop, a family Wendinger would member had another suggestion for the shop’s name…”Three Loose not be involved, Threads.” To this day, the women’s husbands still call and ask for along with Forst “Thread One” or “Thread Two.” and third partner The shop has a lot of company, both in foot traffic in the retail Cindy Wendinger. area, as well as at the classes offered in the lower level. Some classes Forst ex- are monthly sessions, offered over the course of the year, others are plained, “Ann’s one-time only. Once-a-month Friday night sew-ins and mini retreats first reaction, are also offered. when we talked 46 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 “With two other quilt shops in New Ulm, it makes the town a Ann, Jackie, and Cindy get extra help from Ann’s daughter Katie, destination for quilters. Each has different things to offer. Our hope Jackie’s daughter Molly, part-time employee and college student is to complement the other two, not compete. New Ulm is a quaint Tom Maidl, mothers-in-law Shirley Wendinger and Alice Forst, and town. I didn’t realize how many visitors travel here, until I was in this Karen Albrecht. RVW setting,” Forst said. Jackie and Ann are at the shop full time, while Cindy works at Photo ID: Top, left page: Jackie Forst, left, and Ann Wendinger, another job off-site. She joins the two on Saturdays and on Monday right—along with friend Cindy Wendinger—opened Sewing Seeds Quilt evenings. (Shop hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Company a year ago. They’re excited that the shop is a community, Tuesday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.) Each of the women where friendships are made and renewed. bring different strengths to the business. Ann runs the long arm The Sewing Seeds Quilt Company logo has three “Farmer’s Daughters” quilting machine, does custom work, and has an excellent eye for quilt squares, reflecting the backgrounds of the three women owners. decorating and for color. Cindy has become the shop’s “wool lady,” The shop’s entrance is to the right of the sign. making samples and teaching classes. Jackie tends to handle the Ann Wendinger is the long arm quilting specialist at Sewing Seeds. business end—ordering, accounts payable, scheduling, newsletters, Jackie Forst is the shop’s business manager, but works all parts of the web sites. While social media takes more time than the women shop. expected, they realize its importance. The shop’s website is sewing- seedsquiltcom.com.

Quilting for fun & fellowship

The 48 quilters and hundreds of visitors by the free work done by the foundation, backup PHACO instrument that breaks up who gathered at St. George for Sewing Ann enlisted Cindy and Jackie’s help and and removes cataracts. for Sight in mid-January were doing it for took the idea for the fundraiser to Catholic Dr. Wallyn’s wife, Kathy, attended the more than themselves. True, they did some Aid. quilting event to share stories of the work quilting, visited with friends, and viewed the Through the foundation, two Hutchinson being done, and how the surgeries allow quilts on display, but they had a bigger goal eye doctors travel to San Lucas each year— those who are nearly blind see again. in mind. Dr. Christopher Wallyn in November and Dr. That goal was to help the people of San Michael Merck in May—to do sight-restoring Photo ID: Above: Kathy Wallyn, wife of Dr. Lucas Toliman, Guatemala who have vision surgery. Christopher Wallyn of Hutchinson, used an eye problems. Quilter registration fees, quilt Cataracts are endemic in mountainous remodel to explain how cataract surgery restores show admissions, vendor contributions, a gions due to the higher dosage of ultraviolet eyesight. silent auction, and donations all go toward light. As cataracts develop, the world slowly Forty-eight quilters worked on projects and/ equipment for eye surgeries that can restore clouds over for the native Guatemalans. or visited with each other during the daylong sight to Guatemalans blinded by cataracts. The St. George quilt show funds equip- Sewing for Sight quilt retreat. One woman The January 18 event was sponsored by ment needed to do the work. The 2012 was heard to say, “I don’t care if I get anything St. George Catholic United Financial and event raised $5,900 for a portable Tonopen done, it’s just so much fun to be here to visit organized by Ann Wendinger, Jackie Forst, used to measure pressure in the eye, the with other quilters.” and Cindy Wendinger of Sewing Seeds Quilt 2013 event raised over $6,500 to purchase Quilts made by Sewing for Sight partici- Company. an A-Scan instrument to measure the size pants, as well as Prairie Peacemakers Quilt Now in it’s third year, the event is a special of the replacement implant lens when a Guild Members, lined the walls of the St. project for Ann Wendinger. She traveled cataract is removed. This year’s $9,000-plus George Parish Center during the January event. to San Lucas with a Foundation for Saving proceeds will go toward the purchase of a The show was open for public viewing the Sight eye surgery team in 2009. Impressed afternoon of the retreat.

RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 47 Love on the Prairie Love on the Wintry Prairie - Part II by Nicole Helget

To summarize, within three weeks we were logical impossibility (remember, we had recently been graduate declaring our love and bringing in a year of students who talk again and again of such things), but somewhere massive upheaval. Within days, we invited the between the birth of Violette and the conception of Archibald, ❤wrath of my family and the skepticism of his. Nate had decided he wanted it. I already knew I really wanted it, Within months, I was divorced. He graduated. but feared revealing such a desire would somehow expose me I wrote a book. Within a year, we bought a as a hypocrite to my own positions. So, when he turned to me on house and moved in. Counseling for everyone. mile 7 of the 2007 Twin Cities marathon, a day hotter than Hades, A year of shakiness, heartache, separation. The a real energy sapper, and asked me to marry him, I said I’d love death of our best friends’ baby: one of those touchstone moments inT the lives of everyone who knew Dan and Sarah and baby Rachel in her brief 5 days, the type of event that seemed to reorganize history, as in “that happened before Rachel or that happened after We forge ahead, Rachel.” Reunion. A commitment to quit being such assholes to each other. Then our daughter Violette arrived with his nose and my skin tone. I graduated from the Master’s program. We ran a the sheer weight of it all marathon. Got engaged. Archibald arrived on a sea of fury and thunderous screaming. Nate’s brother moved in. I almost lost { } my mind. But didn’t. The kids got bigger, smarter. Two of them driving us forward. migrated to middle school and start talking about dating and dances. Another book. More writing. Several months later, a wed- to. Around mile 9 or 10, my slower running pace required that ding. Fewer than two years later, Gordon. And a million things in we split up so that we could both finish the 26 miles. If I had tried between. to speed up to match his pace, I’d be too worn out to finish. If he In the days before our wedding, Nate’s cousin from Paris, slowed to match mine, he’d exhaust his energy. So I watched him Damien, came and we drove him and the kids out to the middle kick on ahead of me and told him I’d see him at the finish line. of nowhere, to Jeffers Petroglyphs, a collection of ancient rock Alone and hot and very tired at mile 14, I wanted to quit so bad carvings from native peoples, in southern Minnesota, close to that I looked up at a plane flying overhead and thought, “If that where we both grew up. Fourteen thousand years ago, glaciers plane fell out of the sky, they’d have to call off the marathon and pulverized the landscape there and scraped away the debris, like I could quit.” I remember knowing that it was a horrific thought a bulldozer pushing rocks out ahead of itself. Somewhere south of to have and wondering what was wrong with me. I kept going, us, erractics, those remnants of our stone ridges and jagged peaks, imagining seeing him waiting for me. I’m not sure what he was sit strangely or lonely in fields or prairies. As the glacier retreated, thinking, but around mile 16 or 17, I was surprised to meet up with bedrock, created by the earth’s inner fires and violent collisions, Nate again. He looked terrible, white, pasty, with very red circles stared up at the sun. Who knows how many millions of years it’d around his eyes. We kept going, very slowly, together. Every once been under there, hardening, waiting to see sky. Now calm and in awhile, we took turns trying to get the other one to sit down cool, the outcroppings are flat, reddish-pink, and cracked. Ancient for a “rest.” But in each case, the other persisted, encouraged, and people found them to be perfect slates on which to carve their we finished somehow after 5 and a half hours, together. Holding images of their world: buffalo, lizards, stick people, lightning, hands. Slightly out of our minds. Talking gibberish in between talk- weapons. And, among the manmade marks are parallel lines of ing wedding plans. By that day, I was already a month pregnant varying thickness, which one might think are manmade, but are in with Archie, though I didn’t yet know it. And so, my fifth child and fact scrapes from the Mankato phase of that last glacier. our nuptials approached at the same time. We had jobs. We had a I remember carrying Archie, the fattest of all the fat babies I’ve toddler. We had two kids requiring orthodontics. We had a reckless had, around the petroglyphs and glacial striations and worrying kid forever a threat to break his head open by falling off his bike, about all the undone wedding details. No cake. No decorations. his skateboard, his razor, his wheelies. We had a lot to pay atten- No bouquets. An unreliable babysitter. A child still nursing. A tion to already. But we relentlessly pile on, always make more, dress neckline, coy for my regular bosom, scandalous for my cow- make bigger, make heavier and neither of us is the type to pull lumbering one. And I remember wondering, “Why are were doing back. We forge ahead, the sheer weight of it all driving us forward. this?” Why were we putting so much more pressure on ourselves? Damien walked around and around the petroglyphs, kneeling Why don’t we just go to Vegas or the courthouse? At one point down, touching the carvings, taking pictures. The man from Paris, we had both held the position that marriage was unnecessary. We the city of art and beauty and home to romance and the world’s had spoken, cavalierly, of its latent sexism, outdated necessity, bio- most devoted lovers, had flown 4,000 miles to marvel at Minnesota 48 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 ❤ geology, to see the rudimentary markings of our ing how he could steal a Playboy if he wanted. I remember him handsome, under ancient people, to celebrate our union. the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, eating prosciutto and jam. I remember him light, February 2011. Here we are. Breathing stale on a walk, challenging me to carry him piggyback. I remember him patient, in our air. Cyclically passing around the same cold. blue room, rocking back and forth with red-faced Archie, who was a feral maniac Wondering whether it’s OK to take a kid who has for his first 7 weeks of life. I remember him kind, with a student-athlete, not double pink eye to the YMCA if she’s been on laughing when the kid responded “cloudy” to the prompt “Name Your Favorite medication for 3 days or if she’s still contagious. Verb.” I remember him wise, over a table, piecing together the mess that was my Arguing about who wipes more butts. Who cleans disparate novel. I remember him peaceful, in a canoe, stroking through a north- more bottles. Refilling the humidifier in the croupy ern lake and at a campfire later that same night, playing his guitar and singing baby’s bedroom. Being bothered by things that with his voice that still makes my throat vibrate. I remember him in other ways, would never have bothered us in the beginning humble and passionate and sensitive, memories that are only for us. Recently, I or even in the summer. Why does he create little suggested that I’d like for us to parent foster kids or possibly adopt more children pyramids of papers all over? How does he not once some of our own children are off in the world. And I remember that rather notice when his shavings wind up in my tooth- than shake his head or roll his eyes or slap his knee in hilarity or point out how brush? Why does he have as many pairs of shoes crazy my own six were driving me, he listened and nodded. And then he said it’s as I do? Why can’t he clean the house or fix din- something he’d consider. This simultaneously pleased me and scared me and ner or do the dishes while he watches the kids? revealed to me the thing about him that I despise the most. He constantly com- How is it possible that he’s simultaneously sound mits to work that’s probably beyond his capability to do. Because, that’s what I asleep and making noises that conjure a gnome do. And if we’re both doing it, who’s going to be the reasonable one, the respon- chopping wood while playing the trombone? How sible one? Who’s going to talk sense? Who’s going to ask when will you find time does he, himself, sleep through that racket? Why to do that? How will you manage the stress? Where will the money come from? does he have that dumb look on his face? When Here, in this man, is my mirror. The qualities that most madden me are ones I did his whole wardrobe come from a Kohls sales myself possess. rack? Glaciers once hovered over where I now sit on a day in February, This is the month in which small skirmishes a day a little sunnier than the one before, a bit warmer, a day a often blow up into three-day freeze outs. If, at tad less busy, so as to allow me a moment to write and relax. We dinner, he asks, “Are there two types of beans in are one day closer to the end of the winter. We are one day closer } here, or are some of them just burnt?,” I could to being able to go outside, perhaps for a run on the Judson just laugh, but in February, this innocuous ques- BottomG Road, where all kinds of critters will soon romp around, where Nate and I tion sounds more like “What kind of an idiot can joke again that maybe a cougar will leap from the escarpments and tear the burns beans? I mean, aren’t they mostly made of jugulars out of our throats and put us out of our misery. We’ll probably talk about water?” When I ask, “Could you change Gordie’s the Twins’ spring training. Running and baseball and humor have saved our rela- diaper?” he hears, “When are you going to pull tionship more than once. And hopefully, by then, I’ll be able to look back at this your own considerable weight around here? How month and even at this essay and chide myself for thinking my stress was so big, much weight have you put on since high school?” my burden so heavy as to deserve a 10 page rant. Hopefully, I’ll look at this essay Within minutes, divorce is threatened, and I begin and think the glacial metaphors are hyperbolic, but I’m not there yet, not today. the mental calculations about how much I make This summer, while running on the Judson Bottom Road with Nate, training versus the total costs of bills. We fight over whose for our next marathon, I think I’ll look closely at the rocky walls and search for work is more important and who does more of it. the signs of glaciers, whose end came from wanting too much and going too While he’s playing video games with Mitch and far, from rising too high and traveling too far in a time too warm. In the end, Pip and I’m cleaning up dinner dishes, I might say, their own precarious height caused them to crack and crumble to the ground. “I work circles around you.” To which he might And when they stretched too far south, the warm weather melted their toes reply, “You might be running around more, but and forced them to retreat, melting and filling the caverns they had created that’s just because you’re inefficient.” To which I in the first place, so as to be not gone, but different. Water, I think, is the most might say, “You’re totally ungrateful, and you can persistent of nature’s forces. Whether frozen in glaciers or dripping from spigots make your own dinner from now on.” To which or roaring from waterfalls, the planet changes in ways hardly noticeable on a he might say, “Fine, then you can just give the second by second measurement. But over time, the water has its way with the little ones baths and put them to bed.” To which I world. Here will remain a lake, there a canyon, there rust, reminders of a tower- might reply, “Fine, you can get up with Gordie in ing presence with a shadow so old we, here, in the the middle of the night.” To which he might say, land of all things cold and frozen can’t help but “Whatever.” We are in a constant state of work shoulder and remember and persist and love each comparing and sleep jealousy, each blaming❤ the other, all the way through February, only 28 days other for the little time we can allocate to exercise, but an uphill marathon month nevertheless. RVW which we both enjoy, and to writing, which we both need, and to blessed, blessed sleep. Nicole Helget, author of several books including The Beneath that, encased, are memories of happi- Turtle Catcher, was called “the most promising Minnesota ness in each other’s company. We’ve had those writer in a generation” by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. moments, if rarely. But imagine how good they She lives in North Mankato with her family. For more must have been, so as the mere possibility of information, go to nicolehelget.blogspot.com. another sustains me through February. I remem- Love on the Prairie is taken blog posts over the past ber him funny, in a studio apartment, demonstrat- years. Some references to situations are not current. ❤ RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 49 Recommended reading by local author Nicole Helget RV W The Turtle Catcher In the tumultuous days after World War I, Herman Richter returns from the front to find his only sister, Liesel, allied with Lester Sutter, the “slow” Good son of a rival clan who spends his days expertly trapping lake turtles. Liesel has sought Lester’s friendship in the wake of her parents’ deaths and in the Reads shadow of her own dark secret. But what begins as yearning for something of a human touch quickly unwinds into a shocking, suspenseful tragedy that haunts the rural town of New Germany, Minnesota, for generations. Woven into this remarkable story are the intense, illuminating experiences of German immigrants in America during the war and the terrible choices they were forced to make in service of their new country or in honor of the old. “The Turtle Catcher” is a lyrical, vibrant, beautifully wrought look at a fascinating piece of American history--and the echoing dangers of family secrets.

Summer of Ordinary Ways

Practicing baseball with Dad, then watching him go after a cow with a NICOLE HELGET HONORED pitchfork in a fit of rage. Playing chicken on the county road with semi trucks full of hogs. Flirting with the milkman. Chasing with your sisters after Wreck AT WOMEN’S HISTORY LUNCHEON and Bump, mangy mutts who prowl farmsteads killing chickens and drinking fuel oil. Dandelion wine. The ghost of a girl buried alive over a century ago. The Brown County Historical Society These unforgettable, sometimes hilarious images spill from a fierce and will honor Sleepy Eye native and author Nicole Helget at its annual Women’s wondrous childhood into the pages of The Summer of Ordinary Ways. History Luncheon at noon on March 15th at the New Ulm Country Club. Stillwater Helget will be both the guest speaker at the event and the honoree as Women’s History Woman of the Year for her con- Clement and Angel are fraternal twins separated at birth; they grow up in tributions to literature, historical fiction, the same small, frontier logging town of Stillwater, Minnesota. Clement was and the understanding of Minnesota left at the orphanage. Angel was adopted by the town’s richest couple, but is history. marked and threatened by her mother’s mental illness. They rarely meet, but Helget recently released her third book, STILLWATER, set in Clement knows if he is truly in need, Angel will come to save him. that city during the Civil War era. Fraternal twins, separated Stillwater, near the Mississippi River and Canada, becomes an important at birth, live very different lives surrounded by fur traders, loggers, freedmen, and other richly drawn historical charac- stop on the Underground Railroad. As Clement and Angel grow up and the ters. Two of Helget’s other books, the memoir THE SUMMER country marches to war, their lives are changed by OF ORDINARY WAYS, and the fictional THE TURTLE CATCHER, many battles for freedom and by losses in the struggle are rooted in Southern Minnesota. for independence, large and small. Tickets are available in advance only at the Brown Stillwater reveals the hardscrabble lives of pioneers, Count y Historical Societ y, located at 2 Nor th Minnesota. Call 507-233-2616 for reservations or additional information. nuns, squaws, fur trappers, loggers, runaway slaves Dan Gislason and the Gislason family sponsor the and freedmen, outlaws and people of conscience, all Women’s History speaker in memory of Dan’s mother, seeking a better, freer, more prosperous future. It is a Marjorie Gislason. novel about mothers, about siblings, about the ways Helget is a regular columnist for River Valley Woman in which we must take care of one another and let go magazine. of one another. For additional information, call Meghan Irwin at 233-2616 or Vicki Pieser at 354-6891.

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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 51 Licensed facilities also require signed contracts prior to move-in. All contracts are different, and each building has its own unique set of rules, which can vary regarding such issues as deposit refunds, contract termination, and even personal property insurance. Clients should make sure that everything is in writing, and that they understand it all. It is recommended to have an elder law attorney review the contract. Recent downturns in our nation’s economy mean that perhaps more than ever, cost is a consideration in selecting a senior living community. For each property being considered, it’s important to find out exactly what’s included, versus what costs extra (usually services such as hair care, special trips, classes, or extra personal care). Paying for care is frequently a concern. Veterans’ and Social Security benefits tend to be overlooked, but can help with eldercare costs for eligible seniors.

Looking Around Although a lot of research can be done over the phone and online, nothing can replace a first-hand visit to a potential new home. On- site visits are great opportunities to not only look around, but to also chat with residents about what they like (and don’t like) about living there. Seniors and their loved ones should ask current residents and staff as many questions as possible so there are no surprises if the older adult, in fact, decides to move in. When visiting a potential new home, here are some specific things to observe: n Is it clean and well maintained? n Is the atmosphere warm and friendly? n Are the units attractive? n Does the food in the dining room look and taste good, and are meals well balanced? n Are activities scheduled that will interest the senior? An on-site visit is also a good chance to meet the staff. Because they are responsible for residents’ daily care, everyone should be completely comfortable with them, and the services they provide. When evaluating the staff, consider this: n Is everyone friendly, caring, and attentive? n Do they assist with medication taking, storage, and reminders? Moving on: n Do they provide an initial assessment of a potential resident’s needs? Tips for Selecting a n Once someone moves in, are the resident’s needs periodically reassessed? n Are medical care providers available to residents? Senior Living Community n How does the community keep families informed about care?

electing a senior living community for your parents, older Final Thoughts family member or for yourself can be one of the biggest life Like everyone, older adults are sometimes fearful of change, and changes. Thankfully, today’s wide range of eldercare options may be unsure about making a major lifestyle decision, such as means that there is literally something for everyone in terms moving to senior housing. Luckily, many facilities offer short-term ofS care levels and cost. (called respite) stays that can last for a few days, a few weeks, or even The key to finding the perfect senior housing solution involves a a few months. The goal is to allow potential residents to “try out” careful analysis of what’s needed and research on what’s available. the community to see if it’s a good fit. Respite stays can also help Here are some tips for success. convince older adults of the benefits of actually making a commitment to move. Getting Started With just a bit of up-front work, an older adult can look forward to A good first step is to get the senior and any friends or family enjoying the next chapter of their life in a senior living community involved in the process to make a list of preferred services and ameni- that perfectly suits his or her needs.RVW ties, along with any questions or concerns. The list can then be used Information adapted from article by Patricia O’Dea-Evans, MS, RN, to compare and contrast when visiting potential new homes. LCPC, CCM in Caregiver.com Weekly Newsletter - Thursday August 18, Like most professionals, we recommend that clients consider only 2011. those facilities that are licensed by the state in which they are located. If you would like more information on “Moving on: Tips for Selecting Licensing ensures that employees have undergone background a Senior Living Community” contact Gail Gilman-Waldner, Family Life checks; that they are fully trained; and are held accountable for all Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor Emeritus – University of Min- that they do. nesota at [email protected].

52 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2014 good TASTE March into Local Foods

items, try buying direct from a farmer. The Minnesota Grown and Local Harvest websites are great resources, also many local farms also have Facebook pages that keep you up-to-date of seasonal happenings. “When does farmers’ market start?” a friend asked me the other day. If you miss the allure and aroma of summer farmers’ market you may be able to find a winter market to get your fix. The Mankato Farmers’ Market and New Ulm Community Market and Cooperative both hold winter markets, with not only produce, but also locally made health and beauty items. By Brooke Knisley, Alternative Roots Farm, Madelia As I take inventory of pantry items that are running low, or gone, it is clear that winter is winding down. Now is the time to make note of what The vegetable field has been buried under a (deepening) layer of snow we need to preserve more or less of this coming season. Kale ran out— since the beginning of this cold, snowy winter. As I finalize plans for the freeze more. Roasted tomatillo-chipotle salsa was a hit! Hopefully those field and chat with new CSA (community supported agriculture) customers last dozen jars of spaghetti sauce will get me through spring planting. about the coming season my mind turns to transplanting vegetables, our Garlic, onions and shallots are keeping well. Potatoes are sprouting, but first rhubarb harvest, and if our many are still usable. Many apples and winter squash are past their prime experimental overwintered carrots (the pigs and chickens will be happy). March means the and parsnips will be successful. A few jars of sunshine and 80° temps would really round out the pantry March means the arrival of pigs to stock, luckily by the end of March there will be more than twelve hours arrival of pigs to our our farm and the first day of spring. of daylight. Warmer temperatures will have begun to thaw us all out and farm and the first The pigs, no patience for the spring hopefully our shovels will be stored for a few blissful months.RVW thaw, will begin digging up the day of spring. earth with their sturdy snouts. If I begin to get impatient myself I may New Bar & just open a bag of potting soil and Party Room! stick my hands right in. Your local farmers have been working hard during the “off-season” to Stop in to check out our prepare for the summer abundance. We never really turn that farming newest updates! Our party room accommodates up to switch “off” and in depth discussions about apple varieties, cover crops or 40 guests. canning recipes are not uncommon at home. I may be among the minority, but I love working on the many winter tasks—seed inventories and orders, planting maps and schedules, recipe hunts and even financial planning. While rarely interested in talk of vegetables, Emily (the farm teen) cannot get her fill of farm animals. She was ecstatic when chickens were added to Authentic Mexican Restaurant the farmstead this winter—bringing fresh eggs we are grateful for. With the 1107 N. Broadway, New Ulm, MN 507-359-7073 promise of piglets in early summer, she is busy brainstorming names. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11-10; Fri. & Sat. 11-10:30; Sun. 11-9 As March begins with hope for what is to come. Inspiration abounds www.plazagaribaldinewulm.com from a four-day organic farming conference, where hundreds of farmers 234759 gathered. Pruning is already underway at the apple orchard. John is gearing up to graft new fruit trees. Farmers planting in high tunnels, or starting any alliums (onions, leeks, shallots) from seed have already begun planting. By mid-March our seed starting station will be active (and dirty) again, awakened by the energy of celery seeds. Tomato, broccoli, pepper and cabbage seedlings will soon follow. It is indeed time to start thinking green. While we won’t see outdoor markets and fresh local produce popping - Featuring Hand made tortillas - up until May, local CSAs have begun their sign ups and indoor markets have Lunch speciaLs Monday - saturday been bustling. It might surprise you that March is an exciting month for local foods. appetizers - seaFood Vegetable fields slumber, but many local products are available all winter QuesadiLLas - nachos - soups steaks - Burritos in Minnesota. Jams, breads, meats, vinegars, flour, syrup and dairy products enchiLadas - Fajitas - FuLL Bar are all examples of local items that are available during the winter (in the 1707 Madison aVe., Mankato, Mn Minnesota River Valley area we are also blessed with local wine and beer). 507-344-0607 Many farms produce local meat, and Legacy Lane in Hutchinson also offers open Mon. - thurs. 11-10; Fri. & sat. 11-10:30; sun. 11-9 a meat CSA. If you don’t have access to a local co-op for meat, or other

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