Albert Lea November.December Magazine 2017

ALBERT LEA

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

magazine

Couple turns school bus into

tiny home Traditions of the

HOLIDAYS

There is nothing better than curling up in your favorite blanket on a cold winter day and reading a book. Especially in front of a fireplace.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Enjoy the beauty of the area in the fall

Editor Sarah Stultz lives in Albert Lea with her husband, Jason, and son, Landon. She loves interior decorating.

As a child, one of my favorite memories from each fall was to travel to an apple orchard with my family.

With fall in the air, we would pick apples and then take them home to make yummy treats such as applesauce, apple crisp or other things. To this day, the smell of apples and cinnamon are some of my favorite scents, and I look forward to them each fall. The scent carries with it the change of temperatures and the beautiful fall colors in the trees. I love the season.

For this issue of Albert Lea magazine, we wanted to find someone with a similar apple orchard to showcase.

In our area, Huntley Gardens has had a longstanding apple orchard in Emmons and sells apples at the Albert Lea Farmers Market.

Though it’s not open to the public like the orchard I remember going to as a child, one of the owners, Verlys Huntley, showed us around the gardens in September.

In addition to apples, the Huntleys grow vegetables such as tomatoes, brussels sprouts and asparagus, among others. They have been a mainstay at the farmers market in recent years.

In this issue of Albert Lea magazine, we met Cam and Tarrah Sather, who also farm, but who have a unique market, growing things such as dried beans and lentils.

For quite a while now I have wanted to meet the Sathers and see the work they completed transforming a school bus into their own version of today’s tiny home.

The process was a long one, and it started when they purchased the bus, essentially gutted it and then little by little turned it into their home.

It was even more impressive than I had anticipated from the photographs I had seen, and it was fascinating to hear their satisfactions from living a more simplistic life.

Lastly, this issue features one of Albert Lea’s major success stories and her own traditions.

Get out and enjoy the season! It won’t be too long before there will be snow.

— Sarah Stultz

2 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER Crystal Miller EDITORIAL Editor Sarah Stultz Contributing Writers Renee Citsay Linda Evenson Jessica Glassel Colleen Harrison Tyler Julson Jasmine Murphy Michelle Nelson Emily Schmidt Sarah Stultz Eh Wah Contributing Photographers Colleen Harrison ART Art Director Kathy Johnson Graphic Designers Susan Downey Kim Ehrich Colby Hansen SALES & PROMOTION Sales Representatives Renee Citsay Jessica Glassell Daniel Gullickson Lucas Lee NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 Volume 5, Number 6 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editor, Albert Lea Magazine, 808 W. Front St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 ONLINE: albertleamagazine.com or facebook.com/ albertleamagazine © 2017 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission.

For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-379-3433.

To purchase advertising, call 507-379-3427.

To subscribe, call 507-379-3422.

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ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

on the cover TRADITIONS OF THE HOLIDAYS From lefse to Thanksgiving dinner, food brings families together.

34 features SCHOOL BUS TURNED TINY HOME

FROM THE GARDEN TO THE TABLE

Couple enjoyed all the amenities of modern-day living in renovated bus.

Longtime Huntley Gardens owners transitioning business to new owner.

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ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

contents Seen 8

8 20

ENGAGEMENTS AND WEDDINGS

10

TIGERS FOOTBALL GAME

12

HEALTHY KIDS RUNNING SERIES

14

AUTUMN BLAZE FESTIVAL

16

BIG ISLAND RENDEZVOUS

Departments 20

DAZZLE: FALL FASHION

22

DIY: HOLIDAY DECORATION

26

SAVOR: PUMPKIN CREAM PIE

32

SAVOR: MAPLE BOURBON APPLE CIDER

All the rest

26

30 52

BOOK CLUB

56

DIETITIAN’S DIGEST

60

EVENTS CALENDAR

64

WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA

LOOKING BACK

34 On the cover: Gerry Vogt is the owner and founder of Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen. The cover photo was taken

by Colleen Harrison at Broadway Home Design.

ALBERT LEA

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

magazine

Couple turns school bus into

M&S

OutdOOr EquipMEnt

tiny home Traditions of the

HOLIDAYS

For the Precision Cut you Expect 519 Prospect Avenue • Albert Lea, MN (507) 377-7705

Free gift wrapping!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 5

Now ServiNg rST

6 | ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

We Get It. You are told you can’t complain because you didn’t go to the government meeting, the community occasion or you didn’t volunteer your time. Read about those happenings in the Albert Lea Tribune. We go to the events that you don’t have time for. Don’t miss a day or you will miss a lot.

Automatic withdrawal payments start at $9.50/month.

Call 507-373-3421 to subscribe.

Albert Lea Tribune

SEEN | WEDDINGS AND ENGAGEMENTS

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(1) Jessica Sosebee and Aaron Rame (2) Summer Sorum and Jeffrey Schmitz (3) Sydney Overgaard and Preston Smith (4) Jessica Inberg and Thomas Guggisberg (5) Kellsie Dieser and Brody Busho (6) Anna Claussen and Sean de Vitry (7) Lauren Nelson and Dennis Lau (8) Veronica Calles-Torrez and Alexander Knudson (9) Cheryl Ille and Aaron Christenson (10) Erin Claussen and Nick Cincotta

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SEEN | TIGERS FOOTBALL GAME

1

2 The Albert Lea High School football team played in the annual Homecoming game on Oct. 6 against the Titans of Tri-City United.

After two days of nothing but cold and rainy weather, the rain stopped just before kickoff and stayed away through the entire game.

Although the Tigers lost, students and fans still came in big numbers to show their support for the home team. (1) Randy Hunt, Janet Hunt and Cami Sorenson (2) Shaun Willaby, Andy Nelson, Wyatt Manges and Jonathan Smerud (3) Karen Hallisy, Zane Sadauskis, Heather Sadauskis, Parker Jenson, Emma Barclay, Dawn Jenson, Zoe Sadauskis and Justin Jenson (4) Cheri Wyant and Lori Jeles (5) Deanna Gullickson, Ashley Benson, Jenni Braaten, Jackie Cromwell-Olson, Thomas Delano, Jen Zoller, Melissa Schumann and Jodi Dreyling

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 11

SEEN | HEALTHY KIDS RUNNING SERIES

2

3

1 Children gathered Oct. 8 at Southwest Middle School as part of the Healthy Kids Running Series, a program that provides a welcoming way for young children to exercise and earn prizes.

(1) Zach, Andrew, Seth, Joe and Mollee Tscholl (2) Pam and Evan Anfinson (3) Xander and Nicky Hillman (4) Lindsey, Noah, Wyatt and Garrett Schultz (5) Brock, Jenni and Brynlea Scott (5) Donna Nelson, Grace Diemer, Gianna Applegate and Corinne Applegate

5 12 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

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4

Bring your banking

TWO lOcaTiOns:

James Ave. and St. Johns Lutheran Community

The first non-profit child care center and preschool in Minnesota

home

for the holidays!

Banking products and services to help make everyone’s holiday a little less “ruff.”

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Servicing Children 6 weeks - 4th grade

Holiday Open House

5 Friday, Dec. 1 0pm 10:00am–2:0 r, Cookies, Cide & Coffee

143 W Clark St. • Albert Lea, MN

contact Brenda Reed, Family Service Coordinator blreed@alchildrenscenter.org 507-373-7979

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Member FDIC

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 13

SEEN | AUTUMN BLAZE FESTIVAL

1 People flocked to downtown Albert Lea Oct. 7 for the annual Autumn Blaze Festival.

Merchandise vendors, music and food were featured during the festival, along with children’s activities. (1) Nathan, Noah, Trinity and Neda Johnson (2) Holly Karsjens and Sarah Hensley (3) Ava and Lia Cunningham (4) Ava and Luke Wangsness (5) John Rust, Charlotte Houg, Kris Houg and Katie Houg

4

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To learn more about our Assisted Living options and to schedule a personal tour, Call (507) 373-5600 or visit albertleasales@oakparkplace.com.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 15

SEEN | BIG ISLAND RENDEZVOUS

2

1

3

The 31st annual Big Island Rendezvous took place from Oct. 5 to Oct. 8 at Bancroft Bay Park in Albert Lea. While Oct. 5 and Oct. 6 were reserved as educational days for schools throughout the area, Oct. 7 and Oct. 8 were open to the public. (1) Jennifer Gade (2) Joe and Lori Jacobs with their children Olivia, Gabriel and Forster (3) Sarah York, Colleen Larsen, Heidi Coe (4) Quen Bena and Aaron Nordhaas (5) Louanne Huisman, Brittney Huisman, Larry Huisman, Christian Cassman and Jordon Huisman (6) Wyatt, Ben, Gavin and Katie Meyer (7) Randy, Bennett, Bryson and April Van Genderson (8) Lane Ohl, Brody McCornack and Eustice Raetz

5

7 16 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

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4

6

Blinds in time for the Holidays.

Prompt and Courteous Service Exclusive Warranties FREE Consultation FREE Installation GIFT CERTIFICATES AvAILAbLE

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$ TAKING CARE OF CUSTOMERS IS OUR MAIN PRIORITY AT VERN EIDE CHEVROLET IN ALBERT LEA.

9 95 + TAX .

CONVENTIONAL

OIL & FILTER CHANGE (UP TO 5 QUARTS) Only redeemable at Vern Eide Chevrolet in Albert Lea. Must bring in coupon, no exceptions. Limit one per VIN#. Expires 11/30/2017.

RETAIL $ .95

29

That’s why we’re giving big discounts in our service department as part of our Customer Appreciation Special. Thanks for being a member of the Vern Eide Chevrolet in Albert Lea family.

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$

25 95 + TAX .

DEXOS SYNTHETIC

OIL & FILTER CHANGE (UP TO 8 QUARTS) Only redeemable at Vern Eide Chevrolet in Albert Lea. Must bring in coupon, no exceptions. Limit one per VIN#. Expires 11/30/2017.

RETAIL $ .95

53

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 17

Insurance from the Best!

Troy Thompson LUTCF 1330 W. Main Albert Lea 507-377-2852 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

WHAT’S ON YOU

DOORSTEP? A.L. HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

LOCAL EVENTS SUDOKU

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

REAL ESTATE COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

DILBERT

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

SALE EVENTS AL BATT

COUPONS CAMPUS NOTES BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

To subscribe, call 507-379-3422 18 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Pumpkin Pie 50 MINS COOK TIME For Pie: Ventura Food Ingredient 2 tablespoons LouAna® 100% Pure Coconut Oil, melted Other Ingredients 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 3 large eggs, beaten 2 cups (or one 15-ounce can) pumpkin 1 1/4 cups evaporated milk

For Crust: Ventura Food Ingredient 3 ounces (about 1/2 cup) refined solid (not liquid) LouAna® 100% Pure Coconut Oil Other Ingredients 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 8 tablespoons ice water

Directions: 1. To make the crust: Place flour, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a food processor and pulse to combine. Add coconut oil in chunks and pulse until mixture resembles coarse meal, making sure there are no large pieces of coconut oil remaining.

2. Add ice water a couple of tablespoons at a time, and continue to pulse just until dough begins to come together.

3. Turn dough out onto a clean cutting board and form into a disc. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least an hour before rolling out. When ready to bake the pie, roll the pie dough into a 12- to 13-inch circle and place in the pan. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork.

Keep the crust chilled in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

4. To make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugars, flour, salt and spices until well combined In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, coconut oil, pumpkin and evaporated milk. Whisk the wet ingredients, all at once into the dry ingredients. Make sure no lumps remain. You can cover the filling and refrigerate overnight or pour directly into the pie crust to bake.

5. Place a rack in the center of the ocean and preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the pie shell on the baking pan and pour in the filling.

6. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the filling is set. The center might still be a bit wobbly, but won’t jiggle in waves. Remove the pie from the oven and cool on a rack; the center will finish cooking through as the pie sits. Refrigerate overnight and serve cold.

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BABY It’S

Cold Outside 2306 E Main St | Albert Lea

OPEN FOR SUPPER ONLY!

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WEDNESDAY – $5.99 BURGER WE SUPPORT LOCAL HOCKEY!

Flavors you’ll see this holiday!

• Cheesecake with homemade graham cracker • Pumpkin with caramelized pecans • Dutch Apple

MASHED POTATOES • GRAVY MACARONI & CHEESE • SEASONAL ITEMS POTATO SALADS • PASTA SALADS • COLESLAWS

Taking orders now!

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ReneeMade@yahoo.com Special Orders Only Contact for Pricing or Sizes

It’s not just homemade It’s ReneeMade NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 19

DAZZLE | FALL FASHION

The must-have trend this season

A tartan scarf is a perfect fall companion and will carry into cold weather. It generates a feeling of coziness and warmth, is a great addition to your fall and winter wardrobe and looks great on any age.

Pair it with business casual or your favorite jeans.

Available in a variety of colors.

Gypsy K Consignment & Boutique, $18-$21

THINGS

YOU

Top color of the season

Move over bright colors of late summer, make room for mustard yellow this fall.

This easy-fit, velour sweater has a modern high-low hemline. The peekaboo front lacing adds feminine allure.

Leutholds, $68

DIDN’T KNOW

YOU WANTED

BY CRYSTAL MILLER AND JESSICA GLASSEL

One for a gift, one for you

Muted plaid gloves will make a great gift for any occasion, and don’t forget to grab a pair for yourself.

These gloves make a statement while being cozy. Equipped with cellphone finger tips, leather ruffles and button detail. Available in a variety of accent colors.

Leutholds, $18.99

20 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Warm and stylish

Cozy up to a bonfire or head to the mall with a stylish knit hat with faux fur pom. The second lining makes it extra comfortable and blocks the wind.

So many colors to choose from that you might need two.

Leutholds, $18.99

Fashion repeats itself Transition into winter

Fall fashion to take you into winter

Capes and ponchos transition from outerwear to layered fashion.

This stunning piece has side button detail to shape the arms.

It’s a great grab-and-go and is available in denim, charcoal and camel.

Leutholds, $79

A little detail goes a long way with this striped blouse with embroidery detail. This retro button-up blouse is versatile and charismatic.

Leutholds, $68

This season’s hottest trends and colors await you at Leutholds and Gypsy K Consignment & Boutique in Albert Lea at Northbridge Mall.

Artisan textures to complement any bracelet stack

This set of five mix-and-match bangle bracelets is made with leather and silver in an assortment of colors. Wear them on their own or stack them with your other favorites for a cool Bohemian-style look. Check out the matching earrings, too.

Gypsy K Consignment & Boutique, $35 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 21

DIY | BY SARAH STULTZ

CELEBRATE THE JOY OF THE

SEASON What you will need:

With the holiday season upon us, check out this easy do-it-yourself project to bring some joy and color to your home. Outside of work, Sarah Stultz enjoys home decorating, gardening and creating projects. If she wasn’t in the journalism industry, she would be interested in pursuing interior design.

1

In a well-ventilated area, spray-paint each jar with a different color. Paint at least two coats on each jar so that color covers both inside and outside of jar. Allow to dry.

22 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Three Mason jars Twine Red, white and green spray paint Burlap Black paint marker or black paint Decorative greenery and berries Glue gun/glue sticks Scissors

2

Measure and cut out 3 strips of burlap that are 4 inches high and 14 inches long.

3

In center of each burlap piece, draw or use a stencil to write the letters of “joy” — one letter per piece.

4

Using a glue gun, glue a strip of burlap to the back of the jar so the letters are centered in the front of the jar.

5

Measure and cut 3 pieces of twine 34 inches long. Tie twine around the neck of the jar as desired.

6

Place decorative greenery and berries into the jars as desired.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 23

SHOP DOWNTOWN ALBERT LEA find everything you need, locally

come in and find all the fall fashion & cozy winter Boots 129 South Broadway Ave Downtown Albert Lea (507) 373-6793 LIKE US ON FACBEOOK!

Find the perfect gift for the holidays!

Buy 4 get 1 free all month of novermBer

122 S. Broadway Ave. Downtown Albert Lea 507.373.7746

30

25% OFF

any One iteM Excludes consignment, fresh flowers and special orders.

Look to us for your holiday wear and gifts.

expires 12/22/17

144 S. Broadway • Albert Lea • 507-473-2111

Addie’s Floral & Gifts 507-377-2081

216 South Broadway Downtown Albert Lea

Quality Consignment • Family Clothing Furniture • Household • Superior Family Value

years.. years.

The Mary Go Round Shoppe Downtown Albert Lea | 507-373-7911

Larry

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Georgia

$50 off

any purchase of $250 or more

Excludes Zable Bracelets, Repairs & Beads

202 S. Broadway, Albert Lea 373-3925 • 800-339-7115 Financing Available

Jeanne

Kathy

Reinertson’s Embroidery Place your customized Christmas order today!

Hats • Jackets • Sweats Denim • Blankets • Business Logos

120 S. Washington Ave. 507-373-5469

230 S Washington Ave. • Albert Lea, MN 56007 greinertson@gmail.com Phone: 507-373-0751 • Cell: 507-261-3959

Mon-Fri 4:30am-2pm; Sat 4:30am-11am

Don’t lose another precious moment to

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203 s. Washington ave. albert Lea, Mn

SHOFF CHIROPRACTIC Providing Past, Present and Future Generations Quality Chiropractic Care

Dr. Christopher Shoff

Acupuncture & Massage Services Available

123 S Broadway | Albert Lea 507.377.6062 Walk-ins Welcome Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 9am-3pm

Promoting Health & Wellness Since 1950 Downtown Albert Lea 507-373-7054

ExquisitE food & finE winEs A first class dining establishment that reflects the influence of classic french & italian cuisine, and current California trends. we offer a diverse selection of over 100 imported & domestic wines. full cocktail service also available.

2401 Bridge Ave. N. Albert Lea, MN 56007 (507) 373-8600

109 W. Park Ave. Hollandale, MN 56045 (507) 889-4311

we feature usdA Prime beef & fresh seafood open thursday, friday and saturday evenings at 5:30 RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED Regularly changing menu, see our website at www.cresendodining.com

www.producestatebank.com

507-377-2425

118 s. Broadway Ave, Albert Lea

220 E. William St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 (507) 373-5500

MEMBER

FDIC

Three Locations Family Owned

SAVOR | PUMPKIN CREAM PIE

26 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

BY RENEE CITSAY

A FRESH TAKE ON FALL

FLAVOR

Renee Citsay is a mother living and working in Albert Lea, who enjoys cooking and making homemade ice cream.

The leaves are changing colors, and the weather is getting cooler. That can only mean one thing: Fall is here.

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite flavors of the season is pumpkin. Add that in with cheesecake, and you have the perfect combination.

Double-layered Pumpkin Cream Pie Ingredients

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup white sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 eggs 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust

1/2 cup pumpkin puree 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 cup homemade whipped cream

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Blend in eggs one at a time.

Remove 1 cup of batter and spread into bottom of crust; set aside.

Add pumpkin, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg to the remaining batter and stir gently until well blended. Carefully spread over the batter in the crust.

Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until center is almost set. Don’t worry if there are a couple of cracks; when you refrigerate they will close up. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.

Garnish with whipped topping before serving.

Recipe from countryliving.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 27

BRIGHT IDEAS

BRILLANT SOLUTIONS

YOUR BUSINESS DESERVES A MARKETING PLAN, NOT JUST AN AD FOR THE WEEK.

507.379.3427 808 West Front St. | Albert Lea, MN 56007 www.albertleatribune.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 | ALBERT LEA | 31

Specialty Shops | Spa & Salons | Food Court Restaurants | Cinema 7 Theater

Northbridge Mall Businesses:

31 ting

Celebra

f Yearvsicoe r Se

• Anytime Fitness • Cinema 7 Theatre • D&V Kitchen • Edward Jones - Andrew Irvine • Electric Beach • E-Z Own • GNC (General Nutrition Center) • Gypsy K Consignments • Herberger’s • H&R Block

• Kay Nails • Leutholds • Manpower • Miracle Ear • Pizza Ranch • Plaza Morena • Sidetrack Hobby • Trader Jacks SHOP LOCALLY!

ALBERT LEA BRIDE ALBERT LEA BRIDE Friday, January 13, 2017

ALBERT LEA BRIDE Friday, September 23, 2016

20

A must-have

wedding to-do list

interview questions for a photographer

Local couple share their

Wedding Day memories

Real weddings Local couples M ​ odern Inspiration

I-90 & Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea, MN Shopping Hours: M-F 10-9; Sat 10-6; Sun 12-5 Leasing or event information: 377-3185 www.northbridgemall.com

Look for new issues every January, May and September.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 29

BOOK CLUB | GREAT READS

Master Readers “Whistling Past the Graveyard”

By Susan Crandall

Review by Marcia Sczublewski

Starla is a 9-year-old girl who lives with her strict grandmother, Mamie. Starla’s mother left to make it big in Nashville.

Starla tries to follow her grandmother’s rules but ends up grounded for the Fourth of July. She sneaks out to watch the parade, but she is caught and then runs away because she is afraid of what Grandma will do. She starts walking to Nashville to find her mother. A black woman named Eula is driving along and offers Starla a ride. Eula has a white baby with her and she has an abusive husband. Starla is subjected to many harsh realities and learns to let go of how she thought things would be when she finds her mother.

Fun facts: • How long has your club been meeting? The club organized in the fall 0f 2002.

• How many members do you have? Nine • Who picks the books? We all recommend books.

• Where do you meet? We meet in the homes of our members for appetizers, dinner and dessert.

• Other interesting facts? The group started after some of the members completed their master’s degree program and wanted to read for pure enjoyment. The group is made up of teachers.

“Depression & Other Magic Tricks”

By Sabrina Benaim

Review by Kati Smalley

BOOKS

YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT

Benaim takes the reader on a roller coaster of love, loss, heartbreak, depression and then happiness. Her poems captivate the reader, telling every detail of her mind.

They reel you in so deep that you keep turning the page to find out what happens next in her life. She starts by introducing herself to the reader — then moves on to her depression in a moving poem named “Explaining my depression to my mother: a conversation.” Even poems about what she tells her doctors show how she is feeling.

There was a boy, it seems, who once held her heart, her hands, her life, but maybe didn’t feel the same. A father who seemed to have left when she needed him the most. Benaim is unafraid to address how strong the depression held onto her.

She writes, “In some stories, the protagonist has to kill the bad thing to release its light. In my story, I am the protagonist and the bad thing, I have to learn how to bend the light out of myself. I can do that magic.” Through the book, we get a series of “magic tricks” she performs on herself to prove to herself she is OK, she is fine, she will be alright. She performs her last “spell,” and she no longer holds her breath. She is happy again!

I can’t truly explain how I felt reading this book. It’s a small book, a shorter read due to some of the smaller poems. I read this book twice in one day. I couldn’t put it down! She really captivated me and made me understand what was going on in her mind. As I read it, I was so anxious to get to the end so I could see how she changed as a person, to see that she felt she is worth a happy life. Benaim is one of my favorite poets, so it was especially easy for my to get into this book. I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a short, good read. I also recommend this book to anyone who has lost someone due to depression, or someone who is currently dealing with depression. She really points out the bad, and turns it all into good. I will be reading this book again and again!

30 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Gather “I am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban”

By Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb

Review by Allison Heinemann

Local book clubs weigh in on recent reads Want a good book to read but don’t know where to start? Consider these books read recently from an area book club.

Have a book club that would like to join this feature? Contact Michelle DaVeiga at 379-9850.

Malala Yousafzai is an incredible young woman who shares her true story of tragedy and triumph. Yousafzai has a passion for learning, just like her father, who works hard to ensure she and her siblings have an education. This becomes harder to do for females in Pakistan as the Taliban gains power. In 2012 at age 15, Yousafzai is shot in the head on her way to school, targeted for continuing her education — and she survives. She spends several months recovering in hospitals and undergoing intense physical therapy. She becomes the face of a global campaign promoting education for females and in 2014, at age 17, becomes the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Education is something most of us take for granted, and Yousafzai shows us what a gift it is.

She also shows us strength in the face of adversity and continues to fight for her cause today.

Fun facts: • How long has your club been meeting? Since March 2017.

• How many members do you have? It varies, usually around seven.

• Who picks the books? Group suggestions are drawn randomly.

• Where do you meet? Intego Insurance.

“One True Loves”

By Taylor Jenkins Reid

Review by Sarah Hensley

Some people binge watch Netflix. I binge listen.

Thanks to Albert Lea Public Library’s Hoopla app, audiobooks are my constant companion while doing laundry, dishes or on a long drive.

From the first minutes of listening, I was eager to know how this story would unfold. Emma is at dinner with her fiance, Sam, and gets a phone call from an unknown number. She answers and finds that her husband Jesse, who everyone believed was killed during a helicopter crash a few years prior, is on the other end of the phone.

“One True Loves” tells the story of Emma and Jesse’s life before the crash, Emma’s journey through grief after his death and her finding happiness again with Sam. You travel this emotional journey with Emma and can’t help but admire the relationships she has first with Jesse and then with Sam. When their lives intersect after Jesse is rescued, you’re torn for Emma — should she go back to the life she knew with Jesse or move on with the life she has created with Sam? The sweet characters take you through many heartfelt twists and turns and will have you more than a little sad that the book must end.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 31

SAVOR | BY COLLEEN HARRISON

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A CRISP AND FESTIVE

DRINK FOR THE SEASON With fall here and the temperature dropping, apple recipes are aplenty. On those cool fall days, this apple cider cocktail will keep you warm while keeping with the spirit of the season. The bourbon will have you feeling warm and toasty. The apple cider (for which there are plenty of Minnesota-made options made available locally) makes the drink crisp and festive, while the maple syrup smooths out the combination of cider and bourbon. A bit of lemon juice gives the cocktail a nice zing while bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. The recipe can easily be duplicated, so you can share around a bonfire or with friends on football Sundays. Cheers!

Maple Bourbon Apple Cider 2 cups apple cider 1/4 cup bourbon 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1 tablespoon lemon juice

In a medium-size pot over low heat or in a slow cooker set to low, combine all ingredients and stir. Ladle into cups and serve warm.

Recipe found at selfproclaimedfoodie.com.

Voted Best Liquor Store!

1617 W. Main St. • Albert Lea 507-379-2364 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 33

TRADITIONS OF THE

HOLIDAYS From lefse to Thanksgiving dinner, food brings families together Story and photography by COLLEEN HARRISON

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Gerry Vogt and her husband, Jerry, founded Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen over four decades ago, in support of Jerry’s sales position selling meats to grocery stores.

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H

olidays bring with them tradition, and for many families those traditions involve food. For Amanda Irvine, the holiday season means it’s time to make lefse.

Irvine, 31, said the lefse-making tradition has been in her family for multiple generations. Her great-grandmother was known for being an excellent baker and for making a variety of treats and food, and made lefse each year around Thanksgiving. The family continues to usually make lefse right before Thanksgiving, making enough to last them through Christmas, as well.

Growing up, Irvine’s grandmother, aunt, cousins, mother and brother carried on the tradition after her great-grandmother passed away.

“Some of my favorite memories were the nights we gathered at my grandma’s house in the kitchen and spent hours making lefse,” Irvine

said. “My grandma, Sharon, was also a great cook and baker. I loved the smell of food cooking in her kitchen. It was a great time to get together and be with family.”

Now, Irvine; her brother, Ethan Weiss; her brother’s girlfriend, Ashley; Irvine’s husband, Andrew; and their daughter, Cece, make lefse at the home of her parents — Wendy and Keith Weiss. It’s a tradition that’s very important to Irvine.

“ ” Family history is the best thing you can pass on to the next generation.

— Amanda Irvine

“For me, making lefse and all the other foods/desserts that my past relatives made keeps the memory alive of my loved ones and makes holidays special,” she said. “I think it’s important to share stories with my daughter, and love being able to keep the memories alive.

Family history is the best thing you can pass on to the next generation.”

Irvine’s mother, Wendy Weiss, said there’s probably over 70 years of lefse-making in their family.

“It’s nice to have family get together and enjoy this tradition,”

Cranberry Orange Slush 36 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Weiss said. “Hopefully, our grandchildren will help with lefsemaking when they get older, and the tradition will continue through the next generations.”

For Gerry Vogt, traditional family recipes have taken on new life through her business, Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen.

Vogt and her husband, Jerry — known locally as “The Gerrys” — founded Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen over 40 years ago to support Jerry’s sales position selling meats to grocery stores.

Raising three children at the time, Vogt’s husband asked her to start making salads as there was a demand locally for potato salad.

Vogt started with her own mother’s recipes for the products that are now dinner staples for many locally and regionally.

The couple bought their first building on the south side of Albert Lea, expanding over the years, until moving into their current 200,000-square-foot facility on Y.H. Hanson Avenue in Albert Lea. Starting with just three different products, Mrs.

Gerry’s Kitchen now offers a wide variety of salads, sides, desserts and other items after Vogt said the demand for other products grew.

Vogt said mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese are two of the company’s most popular products, but said the potato salad will always hold a lot of sentiment for her.

“It’s Mom’s recipe,” she said.

Vogt prides herself on the fact that — while on a much larger scale — the company keeps the original recipes. She said a lot of items the company offers make it possible for people to use them while still making recipes their own.

She’s also proud that Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen continues to call Albert Lea home. She’s grateful for the Albert Lea community — the community she raised her children in and that is home to her entire family — for supporting the local business.

“Albert Lea is home,” she said. “ All the way around, it’s home.” AL

Pumpkin spice, a product from Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen, can be used to make pumpkin pie and other pumpkin-flavored recipes.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 37

LEFSE

9 cups mashed potatoes 1 stick butter 1/3 cup whipping cream 2 1/2 cup flour 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon sugar Boil potatoes in salted water. Rice cooked potatoes, add butter while warm and then cool. Add flour, sugar and salt just before rolling. Make into balls. Roll out on floured board, then fry on hot lefse grill. Makes 4 dozen.

CRANBERRY ORANGE SLUSH

1 cup Mrs. Gerry’s Cranberry Orange Relish 1 12-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate, slightly thawed 3 1/2 cups water 2 liters lemon-lime soda In a blender, combine Mrs. Gerry’s Cranberry Orange Relish and orange juice concentrate. Process until smooth.

Pour into a 4-quart plastic container, stirring in water. Freeze overnight. Let mixture stand at room temperature until it reaches a slushy consistency, about 2 hours. Scoop 1/4 cup into a glass and fill with lemon-lime soda. Mixture can also be put into a punch bowl.

The Weiss family has made lefse each holiday season, a tradition spanning over mutliple generations of their family.

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Lefse, a yearly tradition in the Weiss family, is shown in this photo provided by Amanda Irvine.

Mrs. Gerry’s mashed potatoes are popular at many Thanksgiving dinner tables.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 39

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SCHOOL BUS TURNED

TINY HOME Couple enjoyed all the amenities of modern-day living Story by SARAH STULTZ Photography by COLLEEN HARRISON

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 41

S

tuck in a cycle of living to work and pay rent in the Twin Cities, Cam and Tarrah Sather about three years ago decided to make a major lifestyle change.

“We asked ourselves, what’s our biggest expense?” Tarrah Sather said.

After realizing their costliest expense was paying rent, they set out to figure out what they could do to cut that cost.

They had been together for a while at that point and had always had a dream of starting a farm, but didn’t know how to begin while they also had to pay rent.

With tiny houses trending for a few years, they thought about the pros of making their own home — but in a bus — where there would be more square footage and it could be a reliable

The Sathers have utilized just about all the square footage of the bus.

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The Sathers took the bus down to the metal grids as part of the renovations in this provided photo.

vehicle at the same time.

“We just took the plunge,” she said.

The couple bought an old bus for $2,500 from a bus company in Monticello.

Cam Sather said he drove the bus to town, where they began and completed most of the renovations when it was parked near his parent’s house in Albert Lea. The couple, who graduated from Albert Lea High School in 2008, said they did most of the work on the weekends, when they weren’t working at their jobs in St. Paul at the time.

A loft was added onto the bus to accommodate a bedroom space above the living room.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 43

They said they were able to put the money they would have spent on rent into the renovations.

With the help of Cam Sather’s father, Irv, a master electrician, they first removed the seats and gutted the bus, taking it down to the metal grids.

Then, they cut a hole in the roof and built a structure for a loft.

After that came the plumbing and electrical and then the walls themselves.

They said they designed everything themselves — changing their minds a few times and incorporating their schooling they received from the University of Minnesota — Tarrah in housing studies and Cam in farming and environmental horticulture.

“ ” Even now when we tell people, a lot of people thought we were nuts. We just adapted. It simplified life a lot, got rid of things we don’t need and now don’t miss.

— Tarrah Sather

Their electricity came from solar panels, and their heat came from a wood stove. They used gas to cook and filled their water storage tanks a couple times a week to allow for showers and even a washing machine. They used a composting toilet.

“Even now when we tell people, a lot of people thought we were nuts,” Tarrah said. “We just adapted.

“It simplified life a lot, got rid of things we don’t need and now don’t miss.”

The couple said it took a little over a year to complete, and they lived in it for two summers and two winters, parked on property owned by a relative in rural Twin Lakes.

“It has paid for itself in the time we’ve lived here,” Tarrah Sather said.

Living there helped the couple get their farming business off the

The couple bought the bus from a bus company in Monticello.

44 | ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

The couple has found ways to make the space their own.

ground. Called Rising Wind Farm, it grows dry beans, such as pinto and black beans, along with other items such as lentils, which it sells to co-ops in the Twin Cities.

Cam Sather farms — this year he grew on 25 acres — and Tarrah Sather has her own cleaning business. Eventually they’d like to be at a point where they can sell their foods locally.

The couple recently purchased a home in Glenville that they are now hoping to fix up.

“This was a good learning experience for that — but on a smaller scale,” Tarrah Sather said. “We knew the bus wasn’t going to be forever, and the house kind of fell into our laps.”

They are hoping to find someone who will buy their bus-turnedhome.

Tarrah Sather said she can envision it on a lake or somewhere in a warmer climate — as winters were a little tough with the extreme cold temperatures.

Through it all, she said she learned many life lessons.

“It’s important that people know that home is where you make it. It doesn’t matter where you live but how you live your life,” she said. AL

There’s a full kitchen in the bus.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 45

FROM THE GARDEN TO

THE TABLE

Longtime Huntley Gardens owners transitioning business to new owner Story by TYLER JULSON Photography by COLLEEN HARRISON

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 47

N

ow that the fall season is in full swing, many of the area farmers are getting close to finishing their work in the fields.

While farmers are nearing the end of their harvesting season, local gardeners have been hard at work all summer long.

Huntley Gardens in Emmons is one of the most well-known gardens in the area. Specializing in a variety of apples, Huntley Gardens grows and harvests many fruits and vegetables throughout the spring, summer and fall seasons.

Owned by Wayne and Verlys Huntley, the gardens grow many different products: apples, pears, strawberries, tomatoes, asparagus, peas, sweet corn and much more are all grown and sold locally at various farmers markets in the area.

Current owner of the gardens, Verlys Huntley, left, stands with her one of her enventual successors, Allen Perkins. The Huntleys plan to hand off the business once they feel they are ready.

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The Huntleys have lived on the orchard since 1965, but didn’t start selling commercially until around 1990. Huntley said they have formed so many relationships with customers and other vendors over the years that it would be impossible to name all of the great people they’ve met.

“The marketing aspect is so fun, (Wayne) particularly enjoys that part,” she said. “You get to meet and know a lot of people. You get acquainted with so many people at the markets, that it starts to feel like an extended family after so many years. You get to know their families and they get to know yours. It’s fun.”

“ ” We’re the oldest vendors at the market. We know we can’t do this that many more years. But I think it’s healthy, it’s good to have activities, something on your mind and something you enjoy to do. I see people who retire and don’t have much to do, and they seem to decline in mental and physical capacities. So we just want to keep going as long as we can.

— Verlys Huntley

Huntley said she has been gardening her entire life. She credits her passion for gardening to a love of being outside, working with her hands and to her mother, who was also an avid gardener. Her first trip to sell at the farmers market came after she found herself with a few extra raspberries and wanted to get them off her hands. After

Huntley Gardens, located in Emmons, specializes in growing a variety of different apples, but it also produces many more fruits and vegetables to be sold at local farmers markets.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 49

that, it just started to catch on, she said.

However, after nearly 30 years in the business, Huntley has started to apprentice a new couple to come in and take over the reigns. She said she and her husband will always be around to help, but it’s time for someone else to run the gardens.

“We’re the oldest vendors at the market,” Huntley said. “We know we can’t do this that many more years. But I think it’s healthy, it’s good to have activities, something on your mind and something you enjoy to do. I see people who retire and don’t have much to do, and they seem to decline in mental and physical capacities. So we just want to keep going as long as we can.”

The couple working under and preparing to take over the business from the Huntleys is Allen and Krista Perkins. Huntley described Allen Perkins as someone who didn’t have a whole lot of gardening experience when he started, but a love of being outside and a passion for working with his hands. She said he has learned a lot during his time at the gardens, not only from her, but from many of the other vendors at the markets as well. Huntley said everyone at the market usually specializes in a few different things, but they all are very open to anyone with questions and are always

50 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

willing to share tips and tricks.

Huntley talked about what the most rewarding aspects of running the gardens has been for her.

“Well it wouldn’t be the money,” she said with a laugh. “It’s hard to make a living doing this, which is unfortunate. For young people to get into the business, they need money to support their families, and that can be hard doing this alone. If you go to two markets to increase your income, but that means you’re going to be gone a lot.”

Even though she has started to take a few steps back from the gardening industry, she still tries to stay involved when she can.

“Although I’m not on the (farmer’s market) board of directors anymore, I still sit in on some of their meetings,” Huntley said. “It was about two years ago when I thought I really needed to get out, so we could get younger people in here to learn about the process while I’m still around to answer questions and help as I can. We’ve got some of those younger people around now, and they’re doing a great job.”

The Huntleys don’t currently have a timetable for when they will officially give up the business, but she said she plans to be around for as long as she possibly can. AL

A freshly pruned brussells sprout plant at Huntley Gardens is just one of the many plants ready for harvesting.

One of the greenhouses at Huntley Gardens.

This one housed rows of tomato plants at different stages of the growing process.

Strawberries are one of Huntley Gardens most popular products when they are in season in early spring.

HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE

Peel and cut up 6 to 8 apples. Put them in a saucepan and add about 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, and then turn down heat and simmer for about 25 minutes (with cover on the pan) or until apples are tender. Add sugar to taste (1/2 to 1 cup of sugar, depending on how tart apples are). If you want mushy applesauce, you can mash or blend the apples to make a smoother sauce. You can also add cinnamon if desired.

EASY MICROWAVE APPLESAUCE

For a quick applesauce, peel and slice one or two apples into a microwave dish. Top with a little butter and some brown sugar and microwave for about 5 minutes. Top with Cool Whip or ice cream.

APPLE CRISP

8 cups of sliced apples 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon Slice apples into 9-by-13-inch cake pan Topping: 1 1/2 cups flour 3/4 cup sugar 1 stick and 2 tablespoons soft butter or margarine Mix topping with a fork until it makes a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle over apples and bake at 350 degrees fro about 45 minutes or until apples are tender.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 51

LOOKING BACK | PAST HALLOWEENS

Created by Whitney Made, Worcestor, Massaschusetts, 1910s-1920s. George C. Whitney, a Civil War veteran, had a wholesale stationary business with his brother in Worcestor. They produced Valentine cards as a sideline. After his brother’s death, George Whitney renamed the business, Whitney Valentine Co. Other holiday postcards were added to the product line.

PARTIES AND PRANKS OF HALLOWEENS PAST

By LINDA EVENSON Photos courtesy FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Halloween, the evening before All Saint’s Day (Nov. 1), has been observed in various ways. Halloween games, stunts and parties were enjoyed in the past. In 1898, the students at Albert Lea College for Women celebrated with an evening gala. In 1907, trustees of the college and their wives came to the school and participated in old-time Halloween merrymaking. The popcorn, nuts and apples they brought, along with the taffy the girls made and pulled, served as refreshments for the evening.

The ladies of the Royal Neighbors of America held a Halloween lunch with entertainment in the M.W.A. hall at 137

52 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

E. Clark St. For the 1911 festivities, the hall was decorated with jack-o-lanterns in every possible place. A feature of the event was the booth decorated with black cats where a witch told fortunes.

Over a century ago, pranks were part of Halloween. The Nov. 2, 1892, issue of the Freeborn County Standard reported, “The younger generation celebrated with their usual demonstrations, although not as much harm was perpetrated as has formerly been done. Bells were rung, carriages wheeled away, horse blocks, boxes and barrels removed to obscure places, and numerous other acts of mischief were perpetrated.”

Created by Whitney Made, Worcestor, Massachusetts, 1910s-1920s.

Created by Simon Bergman, New York, 1910s-1920s.

Bergman was president of the Illustrated Post Card & Novelty Co., New York.

Created by Simon Bergman, New York, 1910s-1920s.

Postcard from the 1910s-1920s.

Created by Whitney Made, Worcestor, Massachusettes, 1910s-1920s.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 53

ADVERTISEMENT CONTENT

HEALTHY PETS | BY MICHELLE NELSON

Michelle Nelson is the owner of The Pet Authority in Albert Lea.

Rawhides may be more harmful than you think

As pet owners, we strive to keep our pets healthy; we feed them a high-quality food, exercise them daily, schedule regular vet checks, but oftentimes we buy just whatever is in the checkout lane at the grocery store for their chews and treats. We have all been guilty of it, thinking, “It’s just a treat, what harm can it really do?” Today I want to take a look at the commonly purchased rawhide, in particular, as many of the ingredients are found on the list of pet poisons.

The name rawhide is really deceiving as there is absolutely nothing raw about rawhide. It is completely processed from beginning to end.

Rawhide is really a byproduct of the leather industry, not the beef industry like you would think, and it is not subject to the same rules and regulations as other dog chews. Let’s take a closer look at how rawhide is made, and then I will let you decide if this is a wise choice to feed your dogs.

Step 1: Cattle hides are normally shipped from slaughter houses to tanneries for processing. The hides are treated with a chemical to prevent spoilage during transportation. Upon arrival at the tanneries, hides are soaked and treated with either an ash-lye solution or a highly toxic recipe of sodium sulphide liming to strip the hair and fat off the hide. It is then treated with chemicals to puff the hide so it can be split into layers; the outer layer goes to shoes, purses, car seats, etc., and the inner layer is made into gelatin, cosmetics, glue and rawhide.

Step 2: In the post-tanning stage, hides are washed and whitened with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and/or bleach. Additional chemicals are used if further whitening is needed.

Step 3: Rawhide can then will be basted, smoked or tinted with FD&C Red 40 and sodium benzoate, both of which are a low-dose poisoning to our pets.

Step 4: In order for rawhides to last forever, glue is added. These glues often contain lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium salts or formaldehyde.

The Humane Society International recently did an investigation into the making of rawhide abroad and found that in Thailand, the skins of brutally slaughtered dogs are mixed with other bits of skin to produce rawhide chew toys for pet dogs. Manufacturers told investigators that these chew toys are regularly exported to and sold in U.S. stores.

I know many of you are using rawhides to keep your dogs teeth clean, but what starts out as a hard piece of hide is quickly turned into a slimy glob of goo that has absolutely no dental benefit. There are much healthier and safer options to rawhide, like raw bones, chicken necks, bully sticks etc.

If you still insistent on feeding rawhide, make sure you look for a USA-made, organic rawhide to purchase. Rawhide needs to be bigger than your dogs head to begin with, and once it is half its original size, throw it away as it can then be easily swallowed and can get stuck in the esophagus or other parts of the digestive tract.

So the next time you come across that big old rawhide bone, my suggestion to you is to keep on walking, as we decide how healthy our pets are going to be.

Q: Where do healthy pets shop?

A: The Pet Authority of course.

• Your Local Pet Nutrition Experts • Specializing in Holistic Food & Care Products • The Best in Toys, Treats and Supplies • Professional Dog Grooming Services

If you are confused and frustrated about your pet’s happiness, let us take you to confident and relaxed, shop The Pet Authority TODAY!

2014 E. Main, Albert Lea

507-373-2505

www.thepetauthority.co 54 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

HEALTH & FITNESS | BY JASMINE MURPHY

Jasmine Murphy teaches fitness classes at the Albert Lea Family Y.

Finding balance through the chaos of everyday life

I love intense workouts. They get the blood pumping, sweat pouring and a sense of achievement at the end. Teaching a variety of high energy classes like Zumba and HITT Bootcamp has given me the results I wanted.

Yin yoga has given me different results. It has allowed me to not feel guilty about “me” time. I noticed after my first yin class that my mind and body felt better afterwards. I was hooked after that. Yin yoga has helped me manage things instead of allowing them to manage me.

We live in a world where we are constantly bombarded with stimuli — stimuli that is available 24/7. Think about all the electronics used — laptops, phones and TV. The mind gets used to that amount of information and starts to crave stimuli if it gets quiet. So you end up browsing, looking for stuff — it doesn’t matter what as long as you fill the gaps. Instead of trying to fill those gaps, we really should allow ourselves some sort of down time — for the mind to stop and for you to just be.

Who is yin yoga for?

• If you are tired, over-stimulated, your mind is overactive, you are craving energy or you feel you have too much of it.

• Athletes, the elderly, office workers and a highly stressed person.

• Addicts, persons with eating disorders or those dealing with

pain/trauma recovery.

Yin and the body

Yin yoga works on the connective tissues. Connective tissue responds best to a slow and steady load. Yin poses can be held anywhere from 45 seconds up to five minutes in a class. If you gently stretch connective tissue by holding a yin pose for a long time in this way, the body will respond by making them a little longer and stronger. Remember the principle of exercise is to stress the tissue so the body will respond by strengthening it. Different yin poses work to stimulate and remove blocks in the myofascial meridians in the body.

This has the effect of balancing the body’s internal organs and systems.

We need to make sure that even during the chaotic moments in our lives we still find balance. We need to be OK with putting some time aside for ourselves — some time to take care of our mind, body and spirit. Your health is so important. If you don’t feel good, you cannot be the best version of yourself for your family and loved ones.

If you haven’t tried a yin class, please do. I have seen such an improvement in my students who come regularly to my classes at the Y. So please give yourself some “me” time, and remember you deserve to take care of yourself.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 55

DIETITIAN’S DIGEST | BY EMILY SCHMIDT

Albert Lea resident Emily Schmidt is a registered dietitian at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea. She enjoys writing, cooking and spending time with her son and family.

A healthy lifestyle is not in aiming for perfection

Leading a healthy lifestyle can be challenging during the cold, winter months. Between holiday treats, indulging in warm comfort foods and the typical decrease in physical activity, managing body weight and taking care of health issues like diabetes, elevated blood pressure or heart disease can be difficult. Fortunately, there are ways to make these indulgences and habits healthier to help you obtain your goals despite the seasonal struggles. Planning strategies ahead of time, revving up your heart rate and being realistic are all aspects of striving for improved health during this time of year.

When it comes to holiday gatherings or Super Bowl parties, planning ahead is essential for managing your health. There is no need to skip holiday celebrations or other parties to be health conscious — life is meant to be enjoyed! Bring your own beverages, not only to be a courteous guest, but also to have your own options.

Flavored, fruit-infused or sparkling water are great choices. Or opt for a lighter alcoholic beverage such as light beer, wine, hard liquor with diet soda or juice. Research shows that sugar substitutes in moderation are still generally less harmful than regular sugar, despite popular opinion. Allow some indulgences, but practice portion control. Sweet treats and higher-calorie dishes do not need to be excluded entirely; having smaller portions is the key. In order to be satisfied, you’ll still need a decent volume of food, and the best way to achieve that is by having more high fiber plant-based foods. Will 56 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

there be any fruit or vegetable options? If not, bring your own. Fruit or vegetable trays are great, even with a vegetable dip, or switch it up with unique side dishes.

Ask yourself: Are there any opportunities — even brief ones — for raising your heart rate? Go for a walk with the family after the big meal, or jump on the treadmill for 10 minutes before heading out for the family get-together. Help clean up after the holiday meal and stay busy with household chores for at least five or 10 minutes after eating.

If you’re the guest, that’s definitely a win-win situation for both you and the host.

Finally, I encourage you to be realistic. Why do so many of us not meet our goals even when we have the best intentions? Oftentimes it’s because we are aiming for perfection. We feel like we’ve failed when we aren’t quite perfect (but really, who is?). Instead of saying you will eat healthy 100 percent of the time, give yourself the goal of eating healthy 80 or 90 percent of the time. When you do have that inevitable indulgence, instead of feeling like a failure and giving up entirely, you can forgive yourself and remember that a healthy lifestyle is not about perfection — it is focused on progress.

When it comes to staying on track with your health during the cold months, remember to plan ahead and practice portion control, take advantage of opportunities for physical movement and strive to be realistic. This might just be your healthiest winter yet!

507.373.1411 | 808 West Front Street | Albert Lea, MN Convenience of home delivery, call 507-379-3421

FINANCES | BY EDWARD JONES

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Put Thanksgiving lessons to work in finances Thanksgiving is almost here. Over the years, this holiday has taken on a variety of meanings, most of them centered on family, caring and sharing. You can carry these same values past Thanksgiving into your daily life — and you can certainly incorporate them into your financial strategies for taking care of your loved ones.

So, here are a few suggestions: • Protect your family. If something were to happen to you, could your family pay the mortgage? Could your children still afford to go to college someday? To protect your family’s current lifestyle and long-term goals, you may well need to maintain adequate life and disability insurance. Your employer may offer these types of protection as employee benefits, but the coverage might be insufficient for your needs. Consequently, you might need to supplement your employerpaid insurance with additional policies.

• Invest in your children. If you have young children, and you’d like to see them go to college someday, you may want to start putting money away toward that goal. You can save and invest for college in a variety of ways, but one popular method is through a 529 plan, which offers high contribution limits and potential tax advantages.

Plus, a 529 plan gives you significant control and flexibility — if you establish a plan for one child, but he or she decides not to go to college, you can name another child as the recipient.

• Be generous. You don’t have to be a millionaire to make meaningful financial gifts to your family. For example, if you have grown children, consider helping them fund their IRAs. You can’t contribute directly to a child’s IRA, but you can write checks to your children for that purpose — though, of course, they are then free to do whatever they want with the money.

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It’s not always easy for a young person to “max out” on an IRA, which has an annual contribution limit of $5,500 for workers under 50, so any help you can give your children in this area should be greatly appreciated.

• Safeguard your own financial independence. Almost certainly, one of the most undesirable outcomes you can imagine is to become financially dependent on your grown children. Even if you save and invest diligently throughout your working years, you could still be vulnerable to financial dependency if you need an extensive period of long-term care, such as a nursing home stay. These costs can be enormous, and Medicare typically pays only a small percentage, and usually for just a limited time. To protect your financial freedom, you should explore ways of addressing long-term care costs. A financial professional can explain those alternatives that may be appropriate for your situation.

• Communicate your wishes to your family. At some point in your life, you will need to draw up your estate plans, which could include a will, a living trust, a durable power of attorney, a health care directive and other documents. To be fair to your children and other family members, and to avoid hurt feelings, you should clearly communicate your plans and your wishes while you are still around.

Thanksgiving means more than turkey and football. And if you can successfully apply the lessons of this holiday to your financial plans, both you and your family will have reason to be thankful.

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

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 59

EVENTS CALENDAR NOVEMBER

9-11

“LOVE, LOSS AND WHAT I WORE” When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9-11, 2 p.m.

Nov. 11 Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $15 More info: The women of Albert Lea Community Theatre will bring a play of monologues and ensemble pieces about women, clothes and memories. Written by Nora Ephron of “When Harry Met Sally” and “Sleepless in Seattle,” and Delia Ephron of “You’ve Got Mail,” this dramatic comedy covers subjects of mothers, prom dresses, buying bras, hating purses and why women only wear black. Half of the proceeds will benefit local women’s groups.

NOVEMBER

9-11

“THE LITTLE MERMAID” When: 7 p.m.

Where: Albert Lea High School auditorium Cost: $7 for adults and $5 for seniors and students More info: In a magical kingdom far far below, a beautiful young mermaid longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above. The show features hit songs from the Disney classic, “Part of Your World,” “She’s in Love,” and “Under the Sea.” 60 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER

18

ALEA GOBBLE WOBBLE When: Race starts at 9 a.m.

Where: Brookside Education Center Cost: $30 for adults, $15 for students ages 5 to 17, free for children 4 and younger; after Oct. 31, registration fee is $35.

More info: The Albert Lea Education Association is sponsoring the second-annual Gobble Wobble, a 5K fun run/walk for district employees, students, their families and community members. All proceeds go to the ALEA scholarship fund. Participants will start on Richway Drive and wind through residential neighborhoods. They will follow Fountain Lake for the second part of the course until they reach Brookside for the finish line. Register at www.albertlea.org.

NOVEMBER

18

TODD UTPADEL AND SNOWY RIVER BAND When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $15 More info: Todd Utpadel and the Snowy River Band will bring a salute to the Grand Ole Opry in this concert. Utpadel has recorded three records — a country, gospel and Christmas album — and will make you feel like you’re in downtown Nashville at the Ryman Auditorium, listening to the show that made country music famous.

DECEMBER

1

MONROE CROSSING: BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $18 in advance or $20 on concert day More info: One of the top bluegrass bands in the nation, Monroe Crossing will return to the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center stage for their popular presentation of “Bluegrass Christmas.” A member of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame and named in honor of Bill Monroe — The Father of Bluegrass Music — Monroe Crossing dazzles audiences with an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel and heartfelt originals.

DECEMBER

2

EVENING OF DAZZLE When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: Northbridge Mall Cost: $20 per person More info: The Evening of Dazzle will kick off the Albert Lea Art Center’s annual Festival of Trees with hors d’oeuvres, wine tasting, music and door prizes. This year’s theme is Joy to the World. After the Evening of Dazzle, the trees will be available for public view at no cost Wednesdays through Sundays through Dec. 22.

Donations will be accepted.

People interested in volunteering are asked to contact the Art Center at 3735665.

DECEMBER

14

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY BAZAAR When: 4 to 7 p.m.

Where: Downtown Albert Lea Cost: Many free events, some charged events.

More info: The holiday spirit will fill downtown Albert Lea during this bazaar on Broadway. Listen to the music, shop early and enjoy downtown Albert Lea.

DECEMBER

22

SINATRA AND COMPANY — THAT HOLIDAY FEELING When: 4 to 7 p.m.

Where: Downtown Albert Lea Cost: Many free events, some charged events.

More info: Many free events, some charged events.

More info.: The holiday spirit will fill downtown Albert Lea during this bazaar on Broadway. Listen to the music, shop early and enjoy downtown Albert Lea. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 61

*literacypartners.org

☐ Yes, I would like to sponsor newspapers to be used by the children in our community! ☐ $20 buys 200 newspapers ☐ $25 buys 250 newspapers ☐ $50 buys 500 newspapers ☐ $100 buys 1,000 newspapers _________________________________________ Business name that would like to be thanked ☐ Check enclosed ☐ MasterCard/Visa Credit Card Name on Card __________________________ Account # _____________________________ Expiration Date ________________________ Total amount to be charged ________________ Please return dontation form to: Albert Lea Tribune Attn: Newspapers in Education Program 808 West Front Street Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-379-3421

The Albert Lea Tribune proudly supports the Newspapers In Education (NIE) program which supplies area schools with free newspapers to encourage literacy, broaden student community awareness and equip educators with a powerful tool for teaching.

The Albert Lea Tribune is committed to covering half the cost of this program.

We depend on community-minded businesses, organizations and subscribers for the remainder.

The economic health and development of our community and your business depends on quality education for our students. They are tomorrow’s consumers, employers and leaders.

PARTING SHOT

Lens and Shutter Club member Darcy Sime took a photo of a giant swallowtail at Myre-Big Island State Park this summer. Sime said the swallowtail at one time was a rare visitor to Minnesota but has become more common as the average temperatures rise.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | 63

WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA | BY EH WAH

Why I

L Albert Lea

Eh Wah is a Karen liaison at the Community Resource Center in Albert Lea.

Before I moved to Albert Lea, I didn’t know how lovely it is.

When I moved to town, I saw that it is a very nice place, very lovely, very clean.

I love that it is a small town with many hard-working people.

The local government, city — all agencies are working together and share in the work.

We can find good jobs. Our children have good education at the schools. My son and daughter are in high school. My son just got the student award. He wants to be in the Air Force, but is also applying to be in the Navy. I’m proud of my son and my family.

64 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

I love my work, and working with all of the people through the United Way and the Community Resource Center. I am very happy with my job — working for people to find them the help they need. I wanted to be a missionary. It was my first choice, but now I feel like I’m doing my mission.

People are also very lovely to each other. There are many churches in town that give people a place to worship. I’m working to help open a church in Clarks Grove — where a lot of our Karen neighbors have homes.

I want to help our young people know about the Cold War in Myanmar (Burma) — so they know they can choose another way.

I’m planning to do more evangelism — and help people who are sad and depressed.

I’m happy to do my work here.

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