May/June 2020 Albert Lea Magazine

ALBERT LEA

MAY/JUNE 2020

magazine

‘ONE BIG BLUE LINE

FAMILY’

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SUCCULENT PLANTER IDEAS

A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION IN THE

GARDEN

thank you sanitary workers farmers T ION C U R T CONS ERS WORK

bank

employees

WORKERS

factory workers

CARRIERS

RS PROV IDE

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delivery

TRUCKERS

PHARMACY

WORKERS

S R E H C T EA military personnel

ENFORCEMENT

firefighters drivers

T RESTAURAN EMPLOYEES

MAIL

EMTs DAYCARE

MEDICAL

L AW

city & county

workers

nonprof it workers

GROCERY

STORE EMPLOYEES

journalists UT ILIT Y WORKERS

EVERYONE WHO IS WORKING TO KEEP THINGS GOING DURING THESE TRYING TIMES

808 W Front St. Albert Lea, MN AlbertLeaTribune.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

Let this issue be a source of hope, pride

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

Got ideas?

This is our eighth year! We at Albert Lea Magazine want to hear what you think, and we need your brightest ideas for coming issues. Favorite musicians? Finest artists? Beautiful home? Best storytellers? Local nightlife? We are open-minded. Call Sarah Stultz at 379-3433. Feel free to write a letter, too. Our address is on the right.

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When our world as we know it changed in Minnesota in March because of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses closed, events were canceled and residents were forced to adjust to a new way of life.

For us here at Albert Lea Magazine, that changed a lot about our plans for this issue, too. With many events canceled or up in the air through June, we have foregone our events calendar for this issue.

Without the option of taking photos of residents at different community events for our Seen section, we started looking more into what people were doing at home with their families and how they were adjusting to the changes in lifestyles.

We saw families spending more time together, people promoting hope through a campaign encouraging hearts on windows and, ultimately, people coming together in a different way than before.

Though it was different than what we’re used to, it was inspiring nonetheless.

Amid the differences in this issue, it also features many of the same parts you have grown to love, including book and streaming reviews, recipes, ways to stay healthy and beautiful photos.

As we begin the spring season and move toward planting season, we have a feature about expert gardener Holly Hunnicutt, who lives in northern Freeborn County and who has an extensive flower and vegetable garden and offers tours of her gardens typically twice a year.

Being a gardener myself, it was awesome to see, and we hope you all are impressed with it, too.

We also feature the women of the Albert Lea Police Department and Freeborn County Sheriff ’s Office, who are dedicated to helping the communities they serve.

Though our lives are still undoubtedly not the same as they were before COVID-19 entered the picture, we hope this issue of Albert Lea Magazine can be a piece of normalcy amid the uncertainty.

— Sarah Stultz

ALBERTmagazine LEA PUBLISHER Crystal Miller EDITORIAL Editor Sarah Stultz Contributing Writers Linda Evenson Colleen Harrison Angela Moller Michelle Nelson Emily Schmidt Sarah Stultz Contributing Photographers Colleen Harrison Angela Moller LAYOUT DESIGN Kim Ehrich SALES & PROMOTION Sales Representatives Chelsey Bellrichard Renee Citsay Daniel Gullickson MAY/JUNE 2020 Volume 8, Number 3 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editor, Albert Lea Magazine, 808 W. Front St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 ONLINE: albertleamagazine.com or facebook.com/ albertleamagazine © 2020 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.

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To subscribe, call 507-379-3422.

ANGIE HOFFMAN REALTOR® | OFFICE ADMIN 507.402.7399 angie@roberthoffmanrealty.com MN #40608325

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212 Broadway Ave. S. | Albert Lea, MN | MN #40230933, IA #F06060000

A Family Tradition of Quality Growing Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm • Sunday Noon-6pm 2512 W. Main St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-7253 • hillsgardens.com

ALBERT LEA | MAY/JUNE 2020

on the cover FINDING HER SOUL IN THE GARDEN Woman’s flower garden provides an outlet of inspiration for herself and others

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features

THE WOMEN OF AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT No matter what the case, officers say their primary goal is to help the community

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MEMORIES OF AN EARLIER PANDEMIC Spanish influenza led to temporary closures of businesses, end to public gatherings

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ALBERT LEA | MAY/JUNE 2020

contents

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Seen 8

WEDDINGS AND ENGAGEMENTS

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KEEPING BUSY AT HOME

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HAPPY HEARTS

16

PETS

18

DISTANCE LEARNING

Departments 20 DIY: CREATIVE PLANTER IDEAS 22 SAVOR: CHICKEN NOODLE HOTDISH

All the rest

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BOOKS: GREAT READS

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STREAMING REVIEWS

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DIETITIAN’S DIGEST

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HEALTH & FITNESS

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LOOKING BACK

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WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA

56 On the cover: Freeborn County resident Holly Hunnicutt is an expert gardener.

— Photo by Colleen Harrison

M&S

OutdOOr EquipmEnt For the Precision Cut you Expect

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SEEN | WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

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(1) Emily Belshan and Josh Howe (2) Meghan Ewing and Nicholas Jepson (3) Chastity Peterson and Joshua Fossum (4) Jessica Hanson and Matthew Hatland (5) Ashley Stewart and Ethan Weiss (5) Zach Adams and Steph Kasper

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COMMUNITY OWNED. COMMUNITY FOCUSED.

FSB has been serving the community’s financial needs for the past 108 years!

With innovative community ownership whose focus is on reinvesting in our LOCAL community.

FSB can offer local decision making, exceptional customer service, and leading edge technology services. Become a customer today!

Daniel Otten CEO

Mark Heinemann President

COMMUNITY OWNED • COMMUNITY FOCUSED ALBERT LEA OFFICE 507-373-1945 HARTLAND OFFICE 507-845-2233 FREEBORN OFFICE 507-863-2371 www.fsbmn.bank Member FDIC NMLS 554275

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 9

SEEN | KEEPING BUSY AT HOME

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To prevent the spread of COVID-19, schools closed in March, sending many children in the community home and to child care centers during the day. Parents and caretakers stayed busy keeping children entertained and trying out new activities.

(1) Matthew Peterson, Dylan Peterson, Isabella Peterson and Janet Rodriguez (2) Vienna, Irelynn and Hadleigh Loverink (3) Jaxon Loverink (4) Cece Irvine (5) Coen Huebner, Alex Baas, Ryder Ehrich, Eisen Huebner, Oliver Huebner and Grant Baas (6) Hannah Harris and Lilly Baas

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Whether you are planning a vacation or need to meet the demands of an illness, the Thorne Crest Respite Care program can help.

Call Catherine Buboltz to schedule a tour and learn the benefits of REHAB STAYS or Respite Care at Thorne Crest Senior Living Community.

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SEEN | HAPPY HEARTS

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To spread positivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, people across the community began placing various designs with hearts in their windows in the last week of March.

(1) Owen, Griffin, Ruby and Eddie Reed (2) Lyla Olson (3) Kolby, Roy and Izabella Himle (4) Levi Fox (5) Mckenzie, Easton and Teagan Eagan (6) Lynsey, Kinsley, AJ and Anthony Kartes (7) The Children’s Center at St. John’s Lutheran Community (8) Lisa Moyer, Haven Olson, Maraya Harig and Jocie Stoops (9) Brooklyn and Brinkley Hullopeter, Korbyn and Kolter Johnson, and Lili and Keatonn Rodriguez (10) Nate and Bryson Baseman. Stephanie Mills and Madalynn Baas (11) Hans, Emmalynn and Genevieve Jeppson

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HAPPY HEARTS | SEEN

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SEEN | HAPPY HEARTS

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14 (12) Ruth Olson and her dog, Millie (13) Avery Blouin (14) Trey and Tyson Villarreal (15) Brooklyn, Samuel and Isaac Reyna (16) The Yokiels (17) Halverson Elementary School featuring names of all of the students

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HoMetowN cAre For YoUr coMPUter rePAIr

Virus & Spyware Removal • Data Recovery Computer Optimization Complete Care Plan LCD Screen Replacement • Data Backup New Computer Sales • Remote Support Diagnostics • Upgrades Voted “Best Computer Repair” by the

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106 S. 6th Street, Forest City, IA 50436 // 800.292.1903 // waldorf.edu MAY/JUNE 2020 | 15

SEEN | PETS

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1 Pets were adjusting at the end of March and early April to having more of their owners home from work because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(1) June, owned by Sarah Nelson (2) June and Cash, owned by Sarah Nelson (3) Jack, Lucy, Eddie and Max, owned by Robert and Angie Hoffman (4) Roosevelt, owned by John and Carol Lang (5) Boomer, Billie and JoZ, owned by Beth Tuberty (6) Copper, Lars, Lady, Ziva and Esuda, owned by Katie Hallman (7) Squirt, owned by John and Nancy Sorlie (8) Daisy, owned by Brad and Lindsay Kramer (9) Scooter, owned by Lance Skov (10) Jax, owned by Nick and Kay DrenthJohannsen (11) Clementine and Rosie, owned by Shannon Lastine and Lucas Possehl (12) Gator, owned by Mike Carter (13) Presley, owned by Murri More (14) Elliot, owned by Debbie and John Thompson (15) KoKo, owned by Victoria McGill (16) Lilly, owned by Elizabeth Harty

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SEEN | DISTANCE LEARNING

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Area students adjusted to distance learning starting the week of March 30, completing assignments from teachers online instead of in the classroom because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(1) Tate Johnson, second grade, and Jack Johnson, pre-K (2) Alessia Hernandez, pre-K, and Octavio Hernandez, third grade, of United South Central (3) Hawthorne Elementary School kindergartener Cora Evan (4) Sibley Elementary School kindergartener Abby Wadding (5) Halverson Elementary School second grader Zoey Richardson (6) Anna Eisen (7) Sibley Elementary School third grader Kayla Wadding (8) Makenzie and Nathan Herr and their dog, Koda (9) kindergartener Aliyeh Seul (10) Halverson Elementary School student Carter Jacobs

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DISTANCE LEARNING | SEEN

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BY ANGELA MOLLER

DIY | CREATIVE PLANTER IDEAS

UNIQUE SUCCULENT

PLANTERS

Sweetly adorable and easy to grow, succulents have been a popular trend for quite some time. Since they’re related to cacti, they don’t require a lot of watering, making them a great option for beginners who would like to tiptoe into the world of houseplants and gardening. Since they love to grow in little nooks and crannies, succulents open the doors to all kinds of creative planting ideas that add a cheerful touch to your home, office or garden. Use found objects from around the house or scout for treasures at yard sales and thrift stores and let your creative juices flow!

Angela Moller is a local designer who owns and operates The Homestead Boutique with her husband, Matt. She loves spending her early mornings in her gardens, before diving into the work of creating handcrafted decor that tells the story of home.

You can find Matt and Angela’s work at The Homestead Boutique, 415 E. William St. in Albert Lea, and online at www. homesteaddesignmn.com.

Log planter A chunk of a split log can be laid horizontally in a flower bed to add an interesting focal point.

Hollow out a bit of space, add a small amount of soil and introduce some small succulents.

Bonus points if the log is already starting to soften and decay — the succulents will love it!

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What you will need: Succulents (readily available at any garden center in multiple varieties) Potting soil Sand Planters of your choice Your favorite garden center can advise you on the best potting mix for your succulents, and you can mix sand with potting soil to create a well-drained mixture for these cactus-family plants that thrive in a drier environment.

Boot planter An old boot from your closet, a rain boot from a garage sale or a toddler’s outgrown shoe can make a sweet planter. You can tuck a succulent in its original plastic pot right into the boot, or fill the boot with a layer of gravel for drainage, followed by a mixture of potting soil and sand for planting. Display with some vintage books and a baby photo for a sweet vignette.

Teacup planter A vintage teacup from your grandma’s collection or a secondhand store find can become an adorable succulent planter. The petite detail of the succulents tie in perfectly to the dainty style of a teacup and add interest to a bedroom nightstand or a bathroom countertop.

Kitchen planter A vintage measuring cup or small pitcher can make a charming addition to a windowsill or countertop. Ball jars, vintage wooden cheese boxes and various types of kitchen utensils can also spark creativity when adding a succulent planter to your kitchen decor.

Seashell planter The mementos from a beach vacation become a great conversation piece when you add them to your decor. Simply add a bit of soil and a tiny succulent to the shell’s opening. Fill a bowl, box or tray with sand or pebbles and add your shell planters.

Shells are also an interesting addition to an outdoor flower bed.

Rock garden planter If you’re a collector of interesting rocks, turn them into an interesting display by arranging them in a tray or flat box, and tucking bits of soil and succulents in between. A lovely touch of nature is a welcome addition to any home or office. Greenery adds a fresh component to any home, and also provides a resting place when our eyes need a break from screens.

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SAVOR | CHICKEN NOODLE HOTDISH

BY CHEF JOHN LOWERY

A DIFFERENT TAKE ON A

Chef John Lowery has 43 years of culinary experience and is a transplant to Minnesota from Florida. Over the years he has worked as chefs in various states, including Florida, Michigan and Minnesota.

He has prepared food for celebrities such as Adrian Dantley, Magic Johnson, singing group New Edition and boxer George Foreman. He lives in Conger with his wife, Kathy, and owns Conger Inn Victory Catering.

TRADITIONAL DISH Chicken Noodle Hotdish with Fresh Asparagus Ingredients 1 can chicken broth 1 can cream of chicken soup 2 cups milk 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese 3 cups chopped carrots 1 cup diced onions 1 1/2 cups green peas 2 cups fresh spring asparagus 1/2 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon chicken base Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste Lawry’s seasoning, to taste 4 cups diced chicken 1 bag frozen noodles 3 cups corn starch, mixed in cold water until dissolved (thickening agent)

Directions

Boil celery, onions and carrots in broth for 15 minutes. Add cream of chicken soup with milk and bring to a boil.

Add small amount of thickening agent.

Add rest of ingredients.

Pour over noodles and bake in oven for 50 minutes.

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BOOKS | GREAT READS

BOOKS YOU

CAN’T

LIVE WITHOUT “A Land More Kind Than Home”

By Wiley Cash Reviewed by Annice Sevett, assistant director of Albert Lea Public Library

In “A Land More Kind Than Home,” author Wiley Cash transports the reader to a small town in North Carolina where a new pastor stirs up trouble among residents.

Carson Chambliss took over the church in Marshall when the previous pastor passed away. Immediately, he blocked the windows with paper and used mysterious practices involving snakes and poisons.

Baffled at first, many residents eventually gave in to his teachings.

The town’s midwife, Adelaide, recognized the dangerous nature of this leader and took the children of the town into her own home on Sundays to protect them. Despite her repeated warnings, most community members continued attending services and gave in to the practices of Chambliss.

Two children Adelaide protected on Sundays were Jess and Stump, two brothers growing up in Marshall. Adelaide couldn’t protect them from their own curiosity, and one day after being sent outside by their mother to play, the brothers spy inside their house and see something shocking. This simple act of curiosity sets into motion a series of events that will have repercussions for the boys and the entire town.

Jess and Stump’s mother, Julie, was one of the community members influenced by Chambliss. Hoping for a miracle, she takes her son Stump, who is developmentally delayed and mute, to be healed by him, hoping her son will soon be able to talk. When Stump is being

“healed,” something terrible happens and the sheriff is called in to investigate.

When the sheriff arrives, he is immediately brought back to a tragedy in his own life that involves a family member of Jess and Stump. Using flashbacks, Cash details this tragedy in the sheriff’s life, and the reader is left with a sense of the old wounds that are present in this small town. As the events of the novel unfold and eventually come to a conclusion, the reader will come to care about the characters and the community they live in.

This novel is different from most mysteries in that the reader knows early on the entire story of the crime; however, Cash builds up suspense in the story by telling it through the eyes of three characters, Adelaide, Jess and Sheriff Barefield. Throughout the novel, Cash uses descriptive language to bring terrifying, yet powerful scenes to life. The story will make the reader think about family, faith and forgiveness as they come to see just how frightening things were in one small town.

“The Secret”

By Rhonda Byrne

Reviewed by Bernice Mattson of New Image Salon As simple as the little train that said “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can,” it is all up to you.

The secret is the law of attraction. What you’re thinking in your mind is what you are attracting to you. Like a magnet, our thoughts attract what

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you think about most, and you attract what you think about most. Thoughts become things. See yourself living in abundance, and you attract it. If you keep thinking of what you don’t want, that, too, will continue to show up. When you focus on getting sick, being late or whatever, you are calling it into existence. See it. Believe it. Be mindful of your thoughts, and watch what you think come to fruition.

It is all about our mindset. Our mind has such great power.

4 READS YOU

SHOULDN’T MISS “Lord , Heal My Hurts”

“Untamed”

Reviewed by Darla Adams of Darla’s Cleaning Service

Reviewed by Holly Miller of B&B Cafe

By Kay Arthur

This book is actually part of a study guide series. It helps you to discover where you are in life and in turn leads you to hearing God’s answer to your deepest needs. Everyone hurts, but God heals! God wants to be your refuge. He can turn your sorrows into joy. This study guide will help minister to you to heal your hurts, your sorrows from your past, because sometimes our wounds are deep. No matter how deep the wounds, God can heal you and is steadfast in his love. There is hope for relief for our hurts. I liked that it is a hands-on approach to dealing with pain from the past.

“Matched”

By Ally Condle

Reviewed by Kati Smalley of Salon 304 Spa & Boutique During your 16th year, you are required to attend the match banquet. This banquet is where you will see the person you are meant to spend your life with. Cassia’s match, though, was a bit out of the ordinary. She matched with her best friend, Xander. Matching with someone from your hometown is unheard of. When Cassia put her match card into the computer to learn all about her match, a different face appears on the screen. A boy known as an aberration, an outcast in this society. She was told it was a mistake, but her heart is telling her a different story. Who is this boy? Why was he on her match screen? And why is her heart so drawn to him?

This book was such a fast read for me. It showed a different society that was intriguing. A place where the higher-ups controlled everything these people did. The higher-ups told them who they will spend their days with, to when to take a certain colored pill, which you are to keep safe from a young age to the time you take it. It’s fascinating to read how authors make these different societies in how people live. This particular book was a fun read because of the story of a young girl who didn’t understand why she was to live this way, why she was told to love one and not the other, and how she pursues her own life and gets into some trouble along the way! I cannot wait to finish book two and then complete the trilogy with book three!

I would definitely rate this a 5-star read, personally. I give it a high rating because I love this kind of fiction — books that bring me to a new world and keep me there through the whole story.

The action is nonstop, and you can feel the chemistry between the main characters. Every book is original and has twists and turns so the reader does not see what is coming. There are now over 20 books in this series, and it keeps getting better.

By Glennon Doyle

In this autobiography, Glennon gives us a clear reminder and confidence boost to follow who we are, not the expectations society puts on us. As women, we often look to the world around us for who we are supposed to be. It is an important journey into focusing on the fact we do not have to be the perfectly poised and praised silent woman. We should embrace every part of our journey and the moments we are brave enough to be honest about who we are. It is alright to be angry, to question the things we have been molded as and to go with the journey we know holds true for each of us individually. We don’t have to be the perfect mom, wife, daughter or friend. We can completely embrace who we are and the journey that got us there. The moment we start being honest and not trying to fit into the role society places on us, is the day our daughters win in their future journeys.

I loved the empowerment message this gives. This could relate on so many different levels to different people, but to me, personally, it reminded me to not shrink my personality or gifts for the world’s approval or acceptance. You should be comfortable being who you are, even if at times you are too much for some.

“This Tender Land: A Novel”

By William Kent Krueger

Reviewed by Becky Johnson of Between Friends Boutique The timeframe of “This Tender Land” is during the Great Depression. Odie O’Banion, a 12-year-old orphan boy, has been sent to Lincoln School, a Native American children’s home. After getting into some serious trouble, Odie and a couple other children flee the home, and their adventure begins. They travel by canoe, foot and rail in search of a place they can call home. Their adventure includes tent revivals, shantytowns and meeting up with many other vagabonds. Through these experiences, Odie learns about trusting other people, his relationship with God and the importance of family.

As a small business owner, I worry about getting through this difficult economic time. This book puts into perspective my perceived difficulties versus the sorry condition of the world in 1932.

The author does an excellent job of portraying the desperation and courage of people during the Depression. The setting of the book is southern Minnesota, and I recognized towns and events which made the story even more realistic.

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STREAMING REVIEWS “The Sinner” Available on Netflix Review by Kim Ehrich

“The Sinner” is a crime thriller that had me at the edge of my seat. It is about a detective, Harry Ambrose (played by Bill Pullman), who becomes obsessed with cases about ordinary people committing brutal crimes. Ambrose believes there are reasons for every act and is determined to find them out.

In the first episode, you’re introduced to a young mom, Cora (played

by Jessica Biel), and husband, Mason (played by Chris Abbott), who seem to have a normal life with their daughter. They take a trip to the beach, where you start to see Cora is acting a little off or she might have some underlying depression. As she sits and peels an apple for her daughter, a song starts to play from a radio of a group of people sitting in front of them. She sees a man flirting with his girlfriend and being playful. In the blink of an eye, Cora starts to stab the man and kills him. I was in complete shock that the first episode jumped right into things, and from each episode thereafter it was filled with twists that kept me wanting to binge the whole season.

Ambrose is assigned to her case and Cora seems to not remember why she murdered the man. She blocked out demons from her past and this event triggered trauma in her life that she doesn’t remember. Ambrose wants to help her to remember. Each episode he discovers unthinkable details and races against time to set out to find the answers for “why” instead of accepting the simple answer that she’s guilty. Season two is a brand new case with Ambrose that also keeps you at the edge of your seat.

It is a must-watch, especially if you are in the mood to binge watch!

Have a series you want us to review?

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably had a little bit of extra time to check out a new series on Netflix or Hulu during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you had one you enjoyed that would be worthwhile for us to review, contact Colleen Harrison at 379-3436 or colleen.harrison@albertleatribune.com.

“Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer” Available on Prime Review by Colleen Harrison

“Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer” is a five-part documentary series revolving around one of the most infamous serial killers of all time. What makes it standout, though, is that instead of focusing solely on Bundy, the series gives voice to his victims — the women he killed, their loved ones left to mourn them, and the ones who survived Bundy coming into their lives — whether by force or by choice.

In addition to interviews with women who survived attacks from Bundy, people who knew Bundy personally and people who knew and loved the women he murdered, the series

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revolves largely around the voices of Elizabeth Kendall and her daughter, Molly. Kendall and Bundy were in a long-term relationship before his crimes came out, and Bundy was like a father to Molly at one point. The women bravely discuss their lives with Bundy in the series, as well as the warning signs that only made tragic sense in hindsight.

The series reframes Bundy’s crimes from a female perspective, discussing the belief that Bundy’s hatred of women collided with the culture wars and feminist movement of the ’70s to make a monster.

What I appreciate most about the docuseries is that it turned the focus back to the victims and survivors of Bundy and their stories, instead of making it all about him — something that can be sorely lacking in conversations and national coverage surrounding violent crimes, and especially crimes against women.

“Locke & Key”

“This is Us”

Available on Netflix Review by Chelsey Bellrichard

Available on Hulu Review by Terri Green

While in quarantine I decided to finally watch the Netflix original show “Locke & Key.” Once I started, I did not stop; I binged all 10 episodes in one sitting. This show introduces you to the Locke family, who have recently lost their dad and have decided to move across the country from Seattle to Massachusetts to live in their dad’s family house: Key House.

Bode, who is the youngest of the Locke children, is the first to start hearing the “whispering,” and you soon learn this whispering is from magical keys hidden throughout the house. He soon brings his other two siblings, Tyler and Kinsey, into the mix and together they start to find all the hidden keys. All the magical keys have something different they can do; one key will bring you anywhere in the world. Bode decides the local ice cream parlor is his first stop with that key.

But, magic comes with a cost, and soon the Locke children find themselves in some trouble when an evil creature is also lurking around to find all the magical keys.

If you are looking for a heart-warming drama, “This is Us” serves it up abundantly. Now in its fourth season on NBC, “This is Us” tells the story of the Pearson family — parents Jack and Rebecca and their three children — who call themselves “The Big Three.”

As the story unfolds, you are taken through to present day, when the children are 30-something adults, with flashbacks to their childhood and their parents’ courtship in the late ’70s and early ’80s. The underlying theme is the great love story between Jack and Rebecca, and between the parents and the children. While there is an abundance of love, each character also deals with real issues anyone can relate to. If you do plan on binge watching, a word of caution: make sure you have a box of tissues nearby. You’ll need them!

“Tiger King”

“Call the Midwife”

Available on Netflix Review by Deanna Rochleau “Call the Midwife” is based upon the best-selling memoirs of Jennifer Worth. S ​ et in the late 1950s through the 1960s, this heartwarming show follows the lives of a group of young midwives and the nuns, who are also nurses, they live with at Nonnatus House in London’s East End. Women’s issues portrayed by a mostly female cast, “Call the Midwife” showcases the real-life struggles people faced in a rapidly changing postWorld War II world. It is sweet, thought-provoking and poignant. I find myself, during the current pandemic scare, wishing I had a Nurse Crane or a Sister Julienne to lean upon.

Available on Netflix Review by Tyler Julson Originally, I was going to write my review on a different show — then “Tiger King” happened. I watched the first episode and wasn’t sure if I was going to keep watching. All of a sudden, seven hours later, I finished it. At the start of every episode I thought to myself, “There’s no way this can get any crazier.” I was wrong each and every time.

The seven-part documentary basically starts by focusing on the tiger trade in America and takes an endless amount of twists and turns before reaching the staggering end. All of the people in the series have a wild personality with a ton of charisma. None of them are particularly great people, but it’s hard not to be drawn in.

It’s a show that will make you think — not in a deeper level kind of way, but in a “How is this real life?” kind of way. Watch at your own risk. It’s a wild ride.

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 27

FINDING HER SOUL IN

THE GARDEN Woman’s flower garden provides an outlet of inspiration for herself and others Story by SARAH STULTZ Photos by COLLEEN HARRISON

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 29

W

hen it comes to flowers, Freeborn County resident Holly Hunnicutt is like a walking encyclopedia.

Ask her the name of a flower, and it rolls off her tongue like it’s second nature.

Hunnicutt, who lives in the northwestern part of the county, started gardening about 19 years ago after attending garden tours in Wells.

She said she would take a notebook, pen and camera with her to the tours and take photographs and write down the names of the plants she liked. She learned a lot about the art of gardening from the Rev. Eugene Stenzel, and it quickly became an addiction.

“I always say, ‘Into the garden I go to lose myself and find my soul,’” she said.

Now, almost two decades later, her gardens continue to provide her with daily inspiration, and they are inspiring others as well through tours each summer in June and August.

Her approximately 100-foot-by-150-foot garden features 45 kinds of roses, over 75 irises, 26 different types of hydrangea and 50 kinds of coneflowers — and that’s just the start.

There are over 20 varieties of bee balm, 26 types of peonies, along with rose mallow, gayfeather and swamp milkweed, to name a few more. Six of the peonies are special tree peonies.

She has fairy gardens, walking paths and a pond and even has specific areas to attract butterflies. She has her own hatcheries where

Milkweed is integral to the survival of monarch butterflies.

30 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Hunnicutt has a gardeing shed on her property that used to belong to her fiance’s grandmother.

Holly Hunnicutt has an expansive garden on her property in northwestern Freeborn County.

Hunnicutt has a pond complete with fish in the back corner of her gardens.

32 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

she collects caterpillars and releases them when they transform into butterflies.

Hunnicutt said she and her fiance, Mike, purchased the property where the gardens sit about four years ago. Some of her flowers, however, are much older and have been transplanted from a home she had in Matawan when she first started gardening and from the property of her fiance’s father, where they lived before moving to their current property. Little by little, she has built up the new gardens, and they contain pieces from flowers of friends and loved ones from over the years.

One of the centerpieces off of the main walking path in the garden is a shed that belonged to her fiance’s grandmother, which she and her fiance recently extended electricity to and that they plan to re-side this year.

“That shed is one of the most special things I own,” she said.

On most days in the summer, Hunnicutt said she is out in the gardens all day after finishing her animal chores, grabbing vegetables from her vegetable gardens to snack on throughout the day. Her vegetable and spice gardens are also extensive and are behind the flower gardens.

After a difficult childhood, Hunnicutt said her gardens have became a source of comfort and healing along life’s journey. They have helped her cope with both physical and mental pains and anxiety.

Bee balm or monarda.

Hunnicutt has an area for vegetables as well.

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 33

“When I’m out there in the warm sun, surrounded by the colors and the fragrance and the sounds of the birds and the bees and the butterflies and the waterfalls … I’ve had a really hard life, and I don’t think about that stuff when I’m out there,” she said. “I just focus on my garden and what I need to do.”

Hunnicutt encouraged others who are interested in gardening to take up the hobby, too.

“It just really refocuses me away from those other things that are not helping,” she said. AL

“

When I’m out there in the warm sun, surrounded by the colors and the fragrance and the sounds of the birds and the bees and the butterflies and the waterfalls … I’ve had a really hard life, and I don’t think about that stuff when I’m out there. I just focus on my garden and what I need to do.

”

— Expert gardener Holly Hunnicutt

Hunnicutt has a fairy garden area set up in her landscaping.

34 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Purple gayfeather or blazing star is pictured up front, with milkweed to the left.

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MAY/JUNE 2020 | 35

THE WOMEN BEHIND THE

BLUE LINE

No matter what the case, officers say their primary goal is to help the community Photography and story by COLLEEN HARRISON

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 37

F

or three local women, a career in law enforcement has been an avenue to give back to their community while serving and protecting those living in it.

While there can be challenging days on the job, the days where they’re able to help someone in some way make it all worth it.

‘There has to be diversity’

Julie Lynne Kohl has been with the Albert Lea Police Department for about 27 years. Originally from Mason City, she has previously worked as a licensed officer, bike patrol officer, a SWAT team member and a juvenile detective after serving in the United States Air Force.

She is now a detective with the police department and is also a death investigator for Freeborn County, which is contracted through River Valley Forensic Services.

Julie Lynne Kohl is a detective with the Albert Lea Police Department. — Provided

Her job as a detective has evolved over the years, Kohl said. She handles a large number of sex crime cases, and has received special training in techniques for interviewing children. As times have changed with the internet and cellphones, she started working internet sex crimes over the years as well. She is currently the secretary for the Minnesota Sex Crimes Investigators Association, where she also serves on the board.

Outside of work, Kohl said she enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, playing guitar, golfing, fishing, bicycling and riding her motorcycle, and volunteering with different organizations when she can.

Kohl said what initially drew her to a career in law enforcement was the excitement and lack of routine on the job.

“After being in the career for a few years, I discovered that I was pretty good at solving things, and found investigations very challenging and rewarding,” she said. “Today, I have moved to feelings of accomplishment just by helping someone deal and survive a traumatic situation.”

Dealing with the unexpected can be a challenging part of the job, Kohl said.

“I have never been on a call or a case that was the same,” she said. “… Every situation has its own unique aspects and solutions. When you are dealing with human beings, nothing is ever the same.”

Getting through to crime victims and charging cases she knows likely won’t be prosecuted due to a lack of evidence in some areas can be challenging aspects of the job as well, she said.

“I have learned over the years the effects that trauma has on a person’s mental health and that victims of crimes suffer mental trauma,” she said. “I receive self-gratification from being able to help a person through a difficult time in their life.”

She thinks there are people who believe law enforcement picks on certain people, which Kohl said is completely untrue.

“As law enforcement officers we target criminal activity,” she said.

“The people involved in that criminal activity are part of it because of the parts that they’re involved in, not because of who they are.”

While she said women in law enforcement have always had to prove themselves, Kohl said she likes to think that has changed some.

“I work with a great group of people,” she said. “We are like a family; sometimes you don’t always get along, but you learn how to get along. I think it is that way no matter what gender you are.”

Kohl said there is a place for everyone in law enforcement.

“There has to be diversity. As law enforcement officers, everyone brings unique backgrounds and understanding into the profession,”

“

I have never been on a call or a case that was the same. … Every situation has its own unique aspects and solutions. When you are dealing with human beings, nothing is ever the same.

— Albert Lea Police Department Detective Julie Lynne Kohl

38 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

she said. “We all need to be willing to learn from others while we are teaching others. We need to be understanding and willing to help each other. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel, we need to learn not to make the same mistakes over and over and move forward.”

Facing the same hurdles

Megan Evers started her career with the Albert Lea Police Department, where she is now a patrol officer, and has been with the department for about 2 1/2 years. Originally from Minneota, Evers, now 24, got her bachelor’s in law enforcement from Minnesota State University-Mankato and took her skills courses through Hibbing Community College. In her spare time she likes crafting, camping, fishing and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.

The difference from one day to the next on the job is what drew her to law enforcement, she said.

“Every day you go to work not knowing exactly what your day will bring,” Evers said. “It isn’t always the same thing day after day.”

The most rewarding part of her job is being able to help those in the community who really need it, but she said that doesn’t always come without challenges.

“Our normal day is most people’s worst day,” Evers said.

A career in law enforcement can also come with misconceptions.

“We are human like everyone else; we care, we feel and we make mistakes just like everyone else,” she said. “But at the end of the day, we will do whatever it takes to help our community and the people we serve.”

About 26% of all law enforcement employees in the U.S. are female, according to the FBI’s criminal justice information services division. Even so, Evers said the females who have gone before her have paved the way so that she doesn’t face any hurdles that are different from the ones male officers face.

Integrity, accountability, dedication and fairness adorn the seal of the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office, while respect, integrity, accountability and service can be found on the seal for Albert Lea Police Department.

“Males and females are different in many ways, so I may have a different style in policing and handling situations than my partners,” she said. “At the end of the day, I have found that everyone has different styles in policing and all can be effective.

“My partners have been nothing but supportive since the first day.

They treat me like any other fellow officer and are truly like my brothers.”

Evers is currently a field training officer — assisting new officers in learning the role of a police officer and all the aspects of the job, and she plans to continue to grow as an officer herself. She encouraged others to do the same.

“Pursue you dreams. In this career you have a front row seat to many things,” she said. “The job isn’t always easy, but looking back

Deputy Sheriff Whitney Paulson is a patrol deputy with the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office.

at all that I have been able to do and help people with, it makes it worth it.”

‘One big blue line family’

Whitney Paulson, originally from Becker, is a patrol deputy with the Freeborn County Sheriff ’s Office. Almost 27 at the time she was interviewed, Paulson has been with the Sheriff ’s Office for about four years. She graduated from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s in criminal justice, completed a law enforcement skills program through the university along with Alexandria Technical College, and completed an internship with the Plymouth Police Department before making her way to Albert Lea. Paulson said she first considered a career in law enforcement after

“

We are human like everyone else; we care, we feel and we make mistakes just like everyone else. But at the end of the day, we will do whatever it takes to help our community and the people we serve.

”

— Albert Lea Police Department Officer Megan Evers

watching the TV show “Law and Order: SVU.” “I began the steps to see if I would like law enforcement by doing alcohol compliance checks with the Plymouth Police Department in high school and in college,” she said.

She then did ride-alongs with the special investigations unit in Plymouth to see how prostitution stings operated, and later did her senior thesis in college on prostitution stings, specifically on the “John” aspect and their characteristics.

“I am not the type of person to be in an office every day, therefore I enjoy the different varieties the job brings and interacting with individuals inside the community,” Paulson said.

There are certainly challenging aspects to the job, she said, such as responding to fatal traffic crashes, seeing deaths or suicides, or responding to domestic abuse cases involving children, but the rewarding aspects of the job outweigh the difficult times.

Among the best parts of the job for Paulson are saving a life, closing a case with criminal charges, proactive and community policing, changing someone’s life by listening to them or helping to de-escalate a situation, and making a difference in the community, among many other positive aspects. Above all, though, are the brothers and sisters she has gained through her blue line family, she said.

“We are one big blue line family who supports one another and we always have each other’s backs,” Paulson said. “I have great partners and a great team to work with.”

Outside of work, Paulson enjoys exercising and lifting weights, and enjoys helping her cousin and uncle’s business, Paulson Club Lambs, 40 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

which sells lambs to 4-H programs. She said she also likes helping her fiance and his family with field work, visiting her hometown to see her parents and spending time with friends and family while visiting different parts of Minnesota.

As far as her career goals go, Paulson wants to continue to patrol Freeborn County, and possibly move into a different position — whether it be civil process, detective or sergeant — within the next 10 to 15 years.

She encouraged others considering a career in law enforcement to pursue it, and said a milestone in her career has been becoming a field training officer.

“Don’t be afraid to come into law enforcement. Be confident in yourself, and you can do the job,” she said. “Don’t hesitate, and follow your dreams. Never give up, and achieve your goals. The end result is worth it.” AL

Megan Evers is a patrol officer with the Albert Lea Police Department.

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MAY/JUNE 2020 | 41

MEMORIES OF AN EARLIER

PANDEMIC

Spanish influenza led to temporary closures of businesses, end to public gatherings Story by SARAH STULTZ Photos courtesy FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

World War I military formation on Broadway in front of the Masonic Hall. Circa 1917 or 1918.

T

he COVID-19 pandemic is not the first worldwide health emergency that has affected residents of Freeborn County on a local level.

From 1918 to 1919, the Spanish influenza epidemic resulted in the deaths of between 25 million and 50 million people across the globe — more than the casualties caused by World War I itself.

According to a column that appeared in the Albert Lea Tribune Nov. 4, 1994, by former writer and columnist Ed Shannon, the American part of this epidemic was reportedly first diagnosed at Fort Riley, Kansas, on March 11, 1918. Within a short time, the flu quickly spread among both the military and civilian population in the nation, plus overseas in Europe.

As a result, 500,000 Americans died.

Shannon said military personnel were hit especially hard by the epidemic, most of them living in crowded conditions in temporary tent camps in an era before a flu shot had been conceived.

He said of the 1,400 or so men from Freeborn County who 44 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

served in the armed forces during World War I, at least 174 of these men became ill and later recovered from influenza, and in some cases, the added complication of pneumonia, according to a book issued in 1919 about the county’s veterans.

In a Nov. 11, 1994, Tribune column, Shannon said influenza brought havoc around the nation and world.

He quoted a reference book: “Fear of the disease and the lack of any information on its communicable nature caused general panic throughout America, canceling games, shows, movies and all other public gatherings. People wore surgical masks whenever on the street. Shops and businesses were closed down, both from absenteeism and from lack of customers.”

By Oct. 12, 1918, there were 100 confirmed cases and one known death from the disease in Albert Lea, Shannon said.

The Albert Lea City Council and board of health took emergency action to cope with the epidemic, ordering all theaters, churches, pool rooms and schools to immediately cease operations. Public gatherings of any kind were prohibited, and the only exceptions made were for the local stores and factories to remain open.

People were asked to stay home as much as possible to guard against spreading or contracting the disease.

Shannon wrote that within a few days, a 35-bed emergency hospital had been set up in the then-empty Cargill Science Hall of Albert Lea College by Naeve Hospital and local Red Cross volunteers. The college had ceased operations a few years earlier.

By the first part of November 1918, the emergency hospital had 25 seriously ill patients, including two of the nurses.

Dr. H.D. Burns, the city’s health officer, ended the influenza

“

Fear of the disease and the lack of any information on its communicable nature caused general panic throughout America, canceling games, shows, movies and all other public gatherings. People wore surgical masks whenever on the street. Shops and businesses were closed down, both from absenteeism and from lack of customers.

”

— Tribune writer Ed Shannon in a column dated Nov. 11, 1994, citing a local reference book about the Spanish influenza epidemic of 1918

emergency on Nov. 18, 1918. There were still 16 patients in the temporary hospital on Abbott Street, but the flu cases locally were on the decline.

“From all indications, the embargo on almost all local social activities, plus the closing of the schools for just over a month helped to curtail the impact of the epidemic,” Shannon wrote.

Shannon said he was unable to determine how many area people died of influenza or the added complication of pneumonia during the 1918 epidemic; however, he said he did discover the loss of one family, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Sorenson and their 7-year-old son, Martin, of North Albert Lea. Another person to die from complications related to influenza while serving as a nurse with the American Red Cross was Effie Aldina Larsen.

Larsen was born in Clarks Grove on Sept. 21, 1895, and after graduating from the school of nursing at the University of Minnesota in September 1918, she became a nurse with the Red Cross.

On Oct. 16, 1918, she was assigned to the base hospital at Camp Dodge in Iowa, where she became ill with influenza, followed by pneumonia. She died on Dec. 14, 1918, and is buried in Clarks Grove Cemetery.

Spanish influenza made a return about a year later in January 1920, as the people of Albert Lea were getting excited about a new winter carnival that was planned.

The Jan. 22, 1920, issue of the Tribune had a headline stating “Businessmen behind winter carnival.” Also on the front page

Advice for preventing influenza from 1918 Advice was given in the Freeborn County Standard Oct. 14, 1918, for preventing influenza from the school nurse, Miss Nelson.

The newspaper advised people to clip the directions from the paper, and post them in a convenient place.

1. Stay in your own yard. Do not mingle with other children and keep away from the sick.

was a short news item saying there were 101 people sick with the flu in Albert Lea. Shannon stated in a column he wrote on Nov. 18, 1994, that E.O. Vollum, chairman of the local board on health, on Jan. 23, 1920, prohibited all public meetings and gatherings and closed schools because of the rapidly spreading influenza. The action ended the carnival planning.

The City Council and local health care professionals held a special meeting Jan. 25, 1920, and by that time there were 150 confirmed cases, including eight teachers, along with 150 or more suspected cases in the city.

The leaders at that meeting decided to again set up an emergency hospital for the most seriously ill influenza patients. This time it would be at the Masonic Temple on North Broadway.

One of the patients in this new hospital died of influenza on Feb. 3, 1920, while the high point for patients being treated in the North Broadway building was 29 in early February.

By Feb. 11, 1920, the second round of the flu epidemic started to decline, and the temporary medical facility was closed.

Two days later, the influenza emergency and local quarantine ended.

Shannon said the city’s residents resumed their normal activities, the children went back to school and the weather warmed up enough to cancel out any ideas of reviving the winter carnival in 1920. AL

2. Keep out-of-doors and in the fresh air as much as possible.

3. Get plenty of sleep in the fresh air and eat good food, well cooked.

4. Wash hands before eating, using your own towel and washcloth.

5. Drink plenty of water, but from your own cup.

6. Garble the throat and spray out the nose, at meal and bedtime, with Dobell’s solution, or ordinary salt water (about a teaspoon to one-half glass of as warm water as possible).

7. Cough or sneeze into your handkerchiefs.

8. Be particularly careful about keeping the bowels in good condition — use a good laxative about every three or four days.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 | 45

Above: The Masonic Temple on North Broadway, now known as the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center, was used as an emergency hospital in 1920.

Right: Freeborn County Standard, Oct. 14, 1918.

46 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

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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.

Recipes to enjoy during the upcoming summer months

The following are some recipes to enjoy in the summer provided by Mayo Clinic staff.

Fish tacos with tomatillo sauce

Dietitian’s tip: If cilantro isn’t to your liking, use parsley instead.

Number of servings: 4 (Low fat, healthy carb)

Ingredients

12 ounces whitefish, such as cod or tilapia Salt and pepper to taste (optional) 1/4 head Napa cabbage (1 1/2 cups) 1 teaspoon cumin 2 teaspoons paprika 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 small yellow onion, diced (1/4 cup) 2 tablespoons minced cilantro 2 red Fresno peppers, diced Zest and juice of 1 lime (1/2 teaspoon zest, 1 tablespoon juice) 4 tablespoons tomatillo salsa 4 wheat tortillas (6-inch diameter), lightly grilled or toasted

Directions

Season fish with salt and pepper if you like. Then bake fish at 375° F for about 20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145° F, or grill fish if you prefer.

Place remaining ingredients except tortillas in a mixing bowl and toss to combine. Flake fish and place on tortillas. Top with cabbage and salsa mixture. Serve immediately.

Tomato basil bruschetta

Dietitian’s tip: If you want a drier topping, remove the seeds from the tomato before 48 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

dicing. (Cut tomato in half and scoop out seeds with your finger or a spoon.)

Number of servings: 6 (Healthy carb, low sodium, low fat)

Ingredients

1/2 whole-grain baguette, cut into 6 1/2-inch-thick diagonal slices 2 tablespoons chopped basil 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 tomatoes, diced 1/2 cup diced fennel 1 teaspoon olive oil 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Heat oven to 400° F. Toast baguette slices until lightly browned. Mix all other ingredients together. Spoon mixture evenly over toasted bread. Serve immediately.

Avocado salad with ginger-miso dressing

Dietitian’s tip: Four classic soy foods — tofu, soy milk, miso and soy sauce — flavor this creamy dressing. This dressing is also delicious on sliced tomatoes or grilled salmon.

Number of servings: 6 (Low sodium, healthy carb)

Ingredients

For the dressing 1/3 cup plain silken tofu 1/3 cup low-fat plain soy milk (soya milk) 1 tablespoon peeled and minced fresh ginger

1 1/2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce 1 teaspoon light miso 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (fresh coriander) 1 tablespoon chopped green (spring) onion, including tender green top For the salad: 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled and cut into 12 thin slices 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 12 ounces mixed baby lettuces (about 10 cups) 1/4 cup chopped red onion 1 green (spring) onion, including tender green top, thinly sliced on the diagonal 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (fresh coriander)

Directions

To make the dressing, combine tofu, soy milk, ginger, soy sauce, miso and mustard in a blender or food processor. Process just until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cilantro and green onion. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

In a small bowl, toss the avocado slices in the lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the lettuces, red and green onions, and cilantro and toss to mix.

Add 2/3 of the dressing and toss lightly to coat. Divide the salad among individual plates. Arrange 2 avocado slices on top of each portion in a crisscross pattern. Top each avocado cross with a drizzle of the remaining dressing. Serve immediately.

HEALTH & FITNESS | BY KRISTIN OVERLAND

Kristin Overland is a wife and mother of two training for her third marathon.

Believing in yourself is first step to start running

Have you ever wanted to run a race, or maybe even just run around our beautiful Fountain Lake, but didn’t know where to start? I didn’t start running until I was 25 years old. In six years, I’ve run thousands of miles and learned a lot about long distance running.

Whatever distance you dream of running, here are a few pointers to get you started: Believe that you can be a runner — no matter what type of body you have, whether you are tall, short, overweight, young or old. If you set your mind to something, you will achieve it with hard work and dedication. One of my all-time motivational quotes is, “the body achieves what the mind believes.” Whether it’s an 18-mile run in the rain, or a short speed work out, your body will follow your mind’s lead. Don’t let negative thoughts stop you from going the distance.

Set goals for yourself. If you would like to run a 5k or around the lake, pick a day that you would like to do that, and work toward that. The first race I ever signed up for was a half marathon. I wouldn’t recommend starting with a long-distance run, but signing up for an event holds you accountable. If you pay for a registration, you will definitely want to be there.

Invest in good running shoes. I learned the hard way that shoes are so very important. I was experiencing knee pain and learned that I needed a more neutral shoe than what I was wearing. Visit a local sporting good or shoe store and ask them for their advice.

Avoiding injury is key to enjoying running and being able to maintain a healthy routine.

Break bigger goals into smaller ones. If you are out of shape and starting to run is scary, that’s OK! Pick a point and run to that. Maybe it’s just the end of the driveway, a tree or light pole down the road, or the end of the block. Repeat that distance until you can easily make it that far. Then go farther. Run, then walk until your heart rate has recovered, then run again.

Find someone to support you, whether it’s a friend who you know enjoys running, a virtual running motivation group or a personal running coach. It’s vital to have someone to talk

to about running, to give you advice and encouragement.

Remember that everyone had to start at some point. Everyone goes through phases of being highly motivated or not wanting to run at all. Give yourself grace, but do not give up.

Determine the motivation behind wanting to run. Whether it’s to get in better shape to be more active with your kids; to live a longer, healthier life; to deal with anxiety or depression; or to spend more time outside — or a combination of reasons.

Remember your why when you’re feeling tired and wanting to quit. Keeping track of your progress with an app will help you see the time and distance you’ve invested and show how you’ve improved, giving you reasons to celebrate along the way.

For me, my greatest motivation is my daughter. “Strong like Clara” is what I repeat in my head when my legs are starting to give out. She has been through a lot, including two heart surgeries in her two years of life. Thinking of that helps me to push through. I’ve also learned that I am a better mom and wife when I’ve taken the time to do something for me during the day.

I can be more focused, more productive and more patient when I’ve done something for myself first.

As parents and employees, we give so much of ourselves that there is little left sometimes. Running has given me something to work on and look forward to. I have fallen in love with the process of training. The buildup of miles and seeing what my body can do. There are not many things as adults that can give us the feelings that crossing the finish line can: pride, fulfillment, gratitude, joy, satisfaction, triumph and accomplishment.

If you’re not interested in running, but would like to start doing some sort of physical activity, I would recommend starting with simple body weight exercises. Just like progressing from the end of the driveway to the end of the block, you can start with just a few reps and build from there. A few ideas would be pushups, tricep dips, squats, lunges, sit ups and a timed plank. Push yourself a little bit farther each day and see how far you can go.

Whether you want to run a mile, or a marathon, remember that believing in yourself is the very first step.

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 49

LOOKING BACK | LAW ENFORCEMENT THROUGH THE YEARS

In 1942, Olean Kofstad, Freeborn County First Aid chairman, made a detachment presentation to the Albert Lea Police Department. From left are Kofstad, Chief of Police Theodore Lifeson, officers Arthur Purdie, Gus Westrum and Miles Norton, and an unidentified highway patrolman.

LAW ENFORCEMENT THROUGH THE YEARS

By LINDA EVENSON Photos courtesy FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Albert Lea was granted a city charter in 1878. The county sheriff provided law enforcement in Albert Lea prior to 1878. In May 1878, Ed Patrick was appointed day police officer with D. K. Stacy and T. L. Torgerson as night police. During the city’s first 20 years, these men served as chief of police: Reuben William, Ed Patrick, W.C. Mitchell, H.S. Grandy, Frank Merchant, W. S. Carey, S. F. Chamberlain, C.D. Marlett, A.E. Ransom and J.J. Sullivan.

By 1923, Albert Lea boasted a new modern jail. It had two cells for male prisoners and one for women. According to the 50 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Albert Lea Tribune’s March 30, 1923, issue, “Miss Hedderly, the police matron, has charge of the Woman’s Ward. She has provided the place with two beds, clean linen, a dresser and all equipment necessary in a first-class bedroom.”

Albert Lea police officers completed the standard and advanced courses in first aid work in 1942. They qualified as a detachment unit to respond to emergency first aid calls. In 1943, the police department received a Red Cross certificate of recognition as the first unit in the state to have all its officers complete the courses.

The Albert Lea police force in 1922. In back, from left, are Thomas Jones, James Otteson and Theodore Lifeson. Seated, from left, are Chief of Police Edward Carey, Mayor William Wohlhuter and Matron Frances Hedderly.

The Freeborn County jail was built in 1875. Improvements were made to the building as this 1917 photo reflects. The sheriff and his family lived on the ground floor. Prisoners were housed on the upper floor.

Born in Norway, Ole Anderson started his career in 1925 as a walking patrolman. He patroled downtown Albert Lea for 17 years. From 1949 to 1956, Ole Anderson served as chief of

This 1916 picture postcard shows Albert Lea City Hall at 200 N. Broadway. The city jail was on the lower level.

On Independence Day 1939, this city of Albert Lea police car was cruising on Newton Avenue near East Main Street.

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 51

FINANCES | BY EDWARD JONES

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It’s not easy, but look past the market selloff These are challenging times. Like everyone, you are concerned about keeping your family safe and healthy, and you’re doing your part to help protect your community from the effects of the coronavirus. And if you’re an investor, you must also address your financial situation. How should you respond to the current market volatility and recent declines in investment prices?

For one thing, try to avoid what many others seem to be doing: panicking. The market selloff may feel unsettling, but it appears to be driven as much, or more, by fear and panic than by economic or financial reality.

Uncertainty is high, but there are reasons — solid, objective reasons — that provide more confidence in the longer-term outlook, suggesting that conditions still warrant an eventual rebound. U.S. unemployment entered this situation near a 50-year low, with solid wage growth. We will see a temporary disruption to the labor market, of course, along with a decline in economic activity, but households entered this period in generally good shape. Furthermore, housing market indicators were moving upward and the decline in mortgage rates could add more strength. Also, the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cuts, taking short-term rates back near 0%, will support the economic rebound as the impact of the virus containment efforts eventually fade.

In addition, while further volatility and the potential for further weakness will likely continue, the steep drops we’ve already seen indicate that the financial markets have “priced in” the likelihood of a short-term recession, which may mean that the worst of the stock market pain has already been endured, though, of course, there are no guarantees.

First, though, it seems likely that the investment world will finally calm down only when the health situation shows signs of containment — and this will inevitably happen, despite the grim reports we are seeing

these days. As a country, we have the motivation, the will, the solidarity and the resources to defeat the coronavirus and its effects, despite the pain and trauma it is now undoubtedly causing.

So, back to our original question: What should you do? Here are a few suggestions: • Remember why you’re investing. Given the market decline, you may be tempted to change your investment strategy. But keep in mind that your financial goals, such as a comfortable retirement, are longer-term than the shelf life of the coronavirus. These goals, not today’s headlines, should guide your decisions.

• Re-evaluate your risk tolerance. The recent volatility provides a good test of your ability to weather short-term swings in your portfolio. If you’re having a hard time coping with these losses, your portfolio may be positioned too aggressively for your risk tolerance. If so, you might want to adjust your portfolio mix to include more fixed-income securities, which can help provide more “downside” protection. However, this would also affect your long-term growth potential.

• Look for buying opportunities. Stocks are now at their most compelling values in more than a decade — in other words, there are plenty of compelling investments out there. You can find many highquality investments at very good prices, so you may want to consider taking advantage of the opportunity.

These are trying times for all of us. But as an investor, you’ll help yourself greatly if you keep the situation in perspective, take a long-term view, evaluate your own risk tolerance and be receptive to new possibilities.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor.

HEALTHY PETS | BY MICHELLE NELSON

Michelle Nelson is the owner of The Pet Authority.

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Regular grooming is a must for dogs of all types

Imagine if you never brushed or washed your hair between visits to the salon? OK, if you are bald, you might be OK, but since I have hair, I would be absolutely miserable and many of your pets are, too, if they are neglected when it comes to regular grooming at home.

Regular brushing: How often and what type of brush all depends on the type of hair coat. Short hair requires minimal brushing with a rubber curry comb. Medium hair coats need weekly brushing with a double/single rake comb. Long hair coats need daily brushing with a double rake or straight comb. For doodles, use a straight comb and slicker brush daily. Always focus on the areas that matt the quickest — face, ears, chest and down the front legs, along with the back end and down the back legs. Next, the tail, sides and top of head, and lastly the back. Proper brushing will keep your dogs (and cats) mat and tangle free. If your dog does become severely matted, you will need to shave your dog completely. If you need to shave your long haired/double-coated dog, their hair may never grow back the same.

Bathing: How often you bathe your dog will all depend on the time of the year, activity and length of their hair coat. During the summer, my dog gets a bath every two to three weeks, sometimes more often if he is playing in the mud or swimming in the lake.

During the winter, I bathe about every six weeks. Shedding season my dog gets a bath every seven to 10 days as he is a horrible shredder, followed by a complete blow dry with a high-powered

blower. Brush your dog prior to bathing and use a dog shampoo (never a human shampoo as our skin and hair type are completely different than our pets) and rinse twice. Not rinsing well enough can cause dry, flaky and itchy skin. I like to use my hands to wash my dog, as it allows me to find ticks, spot skin irritations or unusual lumps. Then I take a rubber curry comb and scrub to help remove even more dead hair.

Nail trimming: This is often one of the most overlooked grooming aspects by many pet owners, due to fear of cutting the quick (blood vessel) in the dogs’ nail. What many dog owners don’t realize is that long toe nails change the natural alignment of leg bones, which adds torque or twisting to the joints, resulting in possible injury and unnecessary pain for the dog. The average dog needs their nails trimmed every three to four weeks. If you hear the “click, click” on the floor when your dog walks, it’s time for a nail trim. Get yourself a good clipper or visit your groomer regularly for proper nail trimming.

Exercise and treats: If your dog is not a big fan of brushing, bathing or nail trimming or just simply will not sit still, taking a nice long walk to release some of that energy will make the entire process much more enjoyable for both you, your groomer and your dog. And always end each of the above tasks with some of their favorite treats from The Pet Authority bakery for a job well done.

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PARTING SHOT Lens and Shutter Club member Darcy Sime took this photo of bloodroot blossom, a spring flower, at Myre-Big Island State Park.

MAY/JUNE 2020 | 55

WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA | BY MARY BOORSMA

Why I

L Albert Lea Mary Boorsma works at the Albert Lea Seed House Garden Center, where she has learned more about community through lawn care than she ever imagined possible.

My family moved to Albert Lea during a cold and snowy January many years ago. Sitting in our tiny rental, surrounded by boxes, looking out the big bay window onto a bleak landscape made a deep impression. I can remember driving the children to school along Garfield and passing Blazing Star Trail. What, I wondered, was tucked back into that piece of woods? As the snow retreated and the punishing cold ended, I loaded a stroller into the trunk and my baby and I walked the double loop of Blazing Star nearly every day. There were regular walkers, and we grew accustomed to friendly greetings. One morning a woman excitedly told me, “There’s a fox den by the fence line.” This was news worth sharing, and soon the fox family became a part of the brief, smiling salutation between strangers on the trail.

Since that spring I’ve walked and biked and driven and shopped a lot around Albert Lea. From the trail at Brookside to Myre-Big Island State Park to the Big Island Rendezvous to the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center, I’ve been invited into the community that’s built around small joys and shared experiences. When I’m by the city beach and a stranger says, “Did you see the rainbow?” and I turn to see my first ever western rainbow cast by the rising sun, I feel lucky and included.

We all know that a joy shared is a joy multiplied and that sharing can halve our sorrows. Being in the grocery store the past several weeks has been an exercise in patience and deep breathing.

So many determined faces. So many scared feelings. Then one stranger catches my eye, and we smile at each other. “I got bread,” she says triumphantly.

56 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

“I got rice,” I respond in kind. We smile again and go on our way, a little less scared, with more room in our lungs for abundance.

It reminds me of the litany at church: “The Lord be with you.”

“And with you, too.”

With these words we place figurative hands on the shoulders of our neighbors and tell them that we wish for them the lavishness found in trust, the health and flourishing every human craves.

Likewise, during an elementary school Fun Night, while dozens of excited, loud children careen from game to game, and a parent says, “Isn’t this fun?” the shared laughter helps make the night actually fun.

An early morning gym user will ask, “Did you see that moon?” and I am fortunate enough that I did see that moon, hanging just above Fountain Lake, a tiny sliver about to disappear for three days before wowing us again in the evening western sky. I saw it and you saw it, and the gift of our shared vision is community.

Small business in Albert Lea is all about community. A man brings his tissue box-sized potato into the store because you sold him the potato seed that spring. The folks carrying baggies of Japanese beetles and sprigs of maple with tar spot and an eggplant that looks nothing like the picture on the seed package. We seek solutions and connection and vision. Together.

Community happens in a small gathering around a shared point of interest. Community is five to seven people reading the same book and gathering to talk about it. Community is verbal highfives in the aisles of a grocery store. The passing of information at the gym. People knowing your dog’s name when you walk the lake. These kinds of exchanges aren’t unique to this Albert Lea, but it has been in this town that I have had these exchanges and that’s why I love Albert Lea.

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THE CLASS OF 2020 MAY 1 5

Riverland Community College, a member of Minnesota State, is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, hlcommission.org. Copyright Š 2020 Riverland Community College. All rights reserved.

Austin, Albert Lea, Owatonna, Online riverland.edu | 507-433-0600

CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY.

Mayo Clinic Health System is committed to supporting the health and well-being of our community by bringing innovative care options to our patients. From the convenience and comfort of home, patients can use Patient Online Services to connect with their provider, view lab results, manage prescriptions and receive online care for many common conditions.

Learn more at mayoclinichealthsystem.org/patient-online-services.