Austin Living Magazine • March-April 2018

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A PLAN THAT

FITS THE FARM

It’s your land. You know what you need to run your farm operation. And it’s a lot more than just seed and soil, livestock and farm machinery. That’s why we’re here to design a plan that fits your farm, your family and your life. We’re local and we’re here to help you grow. Stop by and let’s talk.

Real Estate Loans | Livestock Loans

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March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 1

EDITOR’S NOTE

Community of leaders A community does not run without leaders.

Without leadership there is no direction, no ideas, no stepping into a better tomorrow. Engagement sits at the core of pushing ideas for a better community and a better way of life.

In our own town, groups like Vision 2020 are led by the civic-minded among us who foresee the work needed to take Austin to the next level. Those leaders, however, aren’t always adults. Often, the minds that look forward can be found in our own schools.

Within the halls and classrooms of Austin’s schools are the minds that are going to change the world as they see it and as their neighbors see it. It’s a time for imagination and daring.

It’s why Austin Living is taking the opportunity to highlight some of those younger leaders among us who aren’t afraid to tackle challenging subjects, whether they are inside the schools or in the community in which they live.

They are products of supportive school systems — Riverland Community College, Austin Public Schools and Pacelli Catholic Schools — that offer opportunities for their students to change and improve the spaces around them.

These schools not only support their Eric Johnson, students, but actively push them to share Austin Living Editor and develop their ideas.

It’s an honor for us to share just a small portion of the increasingly talented youth of Austin, who envision a better tomorrow and work hard to make it happen.

We are featuring the work and members of Riverland’s Student Senate, as well as our emerging leaders from the Austin and Pacelli schools, whose talents and ideas make a community proud.

We solemnly hope that you, too, recognize what these leaders are accomplishing — because their world is your world.

Along the way During this time of year, when winter still holds sway but spring is on the horizon, we thought to include a variety of things for both inside and outdoors in this edition.

We hope to get you fired up about getting in your garden as The List highlights those tools you will need for when you begin planting.

We also have a story about a group of woodcarvers who meet once a week at the Mower County Senior Center; and, there is the Austin ArtWorks Center’s monthly hosting of the ArtRocks Jam Session.

But there is opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, too, including how to take advantage of the dynamic settings winter offers for your photo canvas, thanks to local photographer John Duren.

It’s an issue for all seasons.

2 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

PUBLISHER Jana Gray EDITORIAL Editor Eric Johnson Contributing Writers Christopher Baldus Rocky Hulne Eric Johnson Deb Nicklay Michael Stoll Photographer Eric Johnson ART Art Director Colby Hansen Graphic Designers Susan Downey Kim Ehrich Colby Hansen Eric Johnson Kathy Johnson SALES & PROMOTION Advertising Manager Heather Ryks Sales Representatives Mike Delhanty Brenda Landherr Heather Ryks MARCH-APRIL 2018 Volume 6, Number 2 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editor, Austin Living 310 2nd Street NE Austin, MN 55912 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission.

For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-434-2235.

To purchase advertising, call 507-434-2220 © A Minnesota Publishers Inc. publication

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK! VISIT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ AUSTINLIVINGMAGAZINE

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 3

MARCH – APRIL 2018

WHAT’S INSIDE

SEEN

AREA EATS

6 PARTY FOR PINK

26 MORE THAN JUST A PIE

Plunging for Pink hits the frozen waters.

8 WINTER THROUGH THE EYES OF READERS

The community offers their pictures of winter.

HOME & HEARTH 30 NEW DAY, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS 10 GOOD NIGHT

A winter sky of fire.

OUT & ABOUT 12 WALK IN WINTER

Don’t ignore the coldest season when it comes to getting great photos.

16 ART ROCKS

The Austin ArtRocks Open Jam Sessions open the stage up area talent.

Blooming Prairie’s Pizza Cellar offers pizza and then some.

Take a planned approach to your kitchen activities.

32 JUST WANDER IN

Woodcarvers Club has an open chair for those with the interest.

TRAVEL 52 UP CLOSE WITH AN ICON

The National Eagle Center in Wabasha gives visitors the chance to experience eagles as never before.

LOOKING BACK 58 POWER TO THE PEOPLE

The early history of the Austin Power and Light Plant.

22 FUNDING + RESEARCH = DISCOVERIES

BOOK REVIEW

62 COMPLICATED DEEDS

Absolute Energy helping fuel a bright future in cancer prevention studies at The Hormel Institute.

THE LIST 24 PREPARING TO GET DIRTY

As spring nears, Therese Manggaard shares five essential tools every gardener should have.

4 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

First-time author tells a tale of power, loss, the price of the American dream and rice.

WHY I LOVE AUSTIN 64 LISA DEYO: A STORY OF US

Our community is a real page-turner.

FEATURED 36 ROLE IN THE FUTURE

Students playing a part in the schools they attend.

38 WORKING FOR CHANGE

Riverland Student Senate making its voice heard.

42 LEADERS FOR TOMORROW

Meet the students who work to be part of their community and the future.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 5

Party for pink

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The sun was shining, the temperatures were mild and the atmosphere was like a party. This was the annual Plunging for Pink event at East Side Lake, one of Paint the Town Pink’s biggest events that has kicked off the fundraising effort over recent years. Several jumpers, both in teams and by themselves, showed up to take the frigid dip, all in an effort to raise funds for the battle against cancer.

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(1) Emcee Cody Anderson kicks off the Plunging for Pink at East Side Lake. (2) The Barley’s Angels team wait for their turn.

(3) Members of the Full Force CrossFit team leave the platform. (4) The team of HYPE Superheroes leave the frigid waters of East Side Lake. (5) Judy Enright and Ted Hinchcliffe hit the water as the first jumpers.

6 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

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(6) The sun shone on another Plunging for Pink at East Side Lake. (7) Kathi Finley, from left, Gail Dennisen and Janet Anderson pose for a picture before the Plunging for Pink gets underway. (8) The Neveln Knights show off their enthusiam before their jump. (9) Mike “Uppy” Upcraft stands out with his pink wig before the festivities. (10) Scott Swelland, left, and Miguel Mossberg take to the air for their jump.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 7

Winter through the eyes of readers

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For many, winter is a time of year for sitting at home, awaiting the bright sun of spring and summer.

But for others it’s a chance to capture striking scenes of snow, magnificent sunsets and sunrises and kids playing in the snow.

These submissions capture all those things that make winter a truly unique time of year if you only give it a chance.

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(1) Mark Lingl capture these hay bales along Highway 218 underneath the emerging sun. (2) Mark Lingl captured a happy moment of his children and grandchildren at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Pictured are Riann Tice (daughter), Carley Niemann (granddaughter), Caleb Niemann (grandson), Tana Niemann (daughter) and Matt Niemann (son-in-law). (3) Mike Merten took this amazing morning sun on Upper Red Lake in northern Minnesota while on a ice fishing trip. Merten had been experiencing 30-degree below zero nights, but caught the warm front as it was moving in. (4) Terry Schmidt took this ice rink-like picture of Dobbins Creek behind his home. (5) A serene picture, again taken by Terry Schmidt, of the snowcovered Dobbins Creek behind his home.

8 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

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(6) A foggy winter day captures geese in Dreisner Park by Tim Reitz. (7) A purple tinge adds a great touch to this photo of Mill Pond by Tim Rietz. (8) Desahna Belden took this photo on Jan. 11 outside Riverland Community College. “Riverland always looks beautiful during snowstorms.” (9) Jessica Torres captures her nephew Romeo Orozco and Toby as they head outside after the fall of some nice fluffy white snow on Jan. 11. (10) Ann Day photographed a perfect winter day with snow and hoar frost covering the trees.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 9

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

10 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Good night Photo

by

Eric Johnson

The last light of day touches the clouds above Interestate 90 in Austin.

If you have a photo you think would be worth sharing, send it to Eric Johnson at photodesk@austindailyherald.com.

Resolution must be 300 DPI and at least 14 inches wide.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 11

Walk in Winter

OUT & ABOUT

Photos

by

By Eric Johnson Eric Johnson • Submitted

by J ohn

Duren

Don’t ignore the coldest season when it comes to getting great photos

An otter takes a peek at the world near a stream.

Photo by John Duren

12 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

The low sun that starts at dawn and continues through the day is what makes winter scenes so dynamic.

It’s only part of what draws John Duren to the season.

It’s a crisp, but pleasant January morning when I meet local photographer John Duren in the parking lot of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.

There’s a light breeze from the south and the sun is just beginning to make its way over the treeline. It’s a world away from the frigid, subzero temps that gripped the area just days before.

We both grab a camera and head into the center. Along the way we talk about the Minnesota Vikings, one of his recent trips, basketball at Austin High School. After awhile we come to where the path we had been walking splits.

It’s here I ask Duren what his favorite season is.

“Winter, for sure,” he said without pausing. “It’s not even close.”

It’s also one of his favorite times to shoot. While the cold and snow of the season may push others away, for Duren it’s a call.

This story could easily have been nothing more than an essay on why Duren loves the winter and the scenes it creates, but we were out that early morning to talk about why winter photography shouldn’t be ignored, whether you are a professional or amateur.

“I love the scenes you get in a snow storm and I love being out in it,” Duren said. “I love the even light on cloudy days and then the snow falling, it makes everything really cool.”

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 13

A moose trudges throught the deep snow of Yellowstone National Park.

Below: An elk basks in the sun. Photos by John Duren

Winter is often stark and rigid; the lines of comfort cut by north winds sweeping snow across the landscape. It’s often bracing and unpleasant. It’s a contrast of light and dark as the sun moves low over the horizon, never really grasping hold of the day.

But those are some of the reasons that winter is such a good time for photography.

“Dawn and dusk are the best times to go out, but because in the winter the sun stays lower, you can pretty much shoot most of the day and still have relatively decent light at any time,” Duren said.

14 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

With a sun that offers nice contrast most any time during the day, winter can be convenient to shoot, but those circumstances aren’t the only time. There are also those nice, even-colored days, when the clouds hold a gray ceiling.

“But my favorite time, the best time for me to go out, is a cloudy day when it’s snowing,” Duren explained.

We walked a little farther down the path, talking a little more about some of the trips Duren has taken, including Yellowstone National Park and some parks in the southeast United States where he hoped to photograph cougars.

As we walked, Duren explained a little more of his personal preference of shooting wildlife over landscapes and how each is approached differently.

In places like the nature center, where wildlife is a little more sparse and not as inclined to come around humans, Duren will set up a blind and hold out. There he will wait for the animal to come near him, hopefully unaware.

In places like Yellowstone, however, the shooting tactic is much different.

“I’m looking for any kind of movement,” Duren said. “I usually set up blinds in places that are harder to see wildlife.

Here, compared to Yellowstone, you’re probably not going to have good opportunity to photograph a red fox, but in Yellowstone, they’re used to people so they aren’t so skittish.”

It’s all about knowing where you plan to go or want to go.

Of course there is always the primary reason some may not want to venture out into Earth’s angriest season — the cold.

The cold is something you will have to adapt to and be prepared for, especially in those times that will require you to sit in a blind for hours, waiting for your subject to come by.

It’s about planning.

“If you don’t have cold weather gear, you are going to

freeze,” Duren said. “If you dress right and wear the proper gear, you can spend the whole day out.”

“I think people assume if it’s too cold, they can’t spend as much time out there, but if you dress for the occasion, you can spend all day and and really enjoy the whole day.”

The other aspect to consider is the equipment, but oddly it’s not as time-consuming a chore as you would think.

Today’s cameras from companies like Nikon, Canon and others have been building durable, weather-ready cameras for years. For the most part, it’s using your common sense and being aware of the situation.

“I’ve had my gear out in 45 below, 50 below, for extended periods of time,” Duren said. “You can tell with the screens that it will be a little slower, but once you get it back inside, warm it up a little bit and let it sit for a while, it’s completely fine.”

As we concluded our short tour of the nature center, the sun was fully embracing the day and sky was turning blue. A perfect day to shoot some pictures.

However, if none of this has convinced you to brave the elements, then don’t worry. Nobody will hold it against you.

“It’s okay if you don’t want to go out,” Duren said. “I love winter, I love being out here, hiking around. It’s a fun time to be out. It’s a peaceful time to be out.”

A fox stalks across the snow in Yellowstone.

Photo by John Duren March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 15

s k t c r o A r

Mary Sullivan takes up the mic during her performance at the ArtRocks Open Jam Session at the Austin ArtWorks Center. The Austin High School senior is one of the regulars to the monthly jams.

16 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

the austin artrocks open jam sessions presents a stage to area talent Story

and

Photos

It’s still early evening and people are just starting to arrive at the Austin ArtWorks Center. Tables and chairs are scattered, loose conversations are struck up and dropped as a group of musicians — Ventura Highway — continues setting up for the night.

As more and more people filter in, purchase drinks and sit down, Scott Jasmin strikes up lonely chords of John Mellencamp’s “Wild Nights.” He’s joined by drummer Pete Wangen as the two provide the soundtrack to the show that’s about to begin.

By the time January’s ArtRocks Open Jam Session is fully involved; the room is packed with both musicians and fans waiting to hear some of the best entertainment Austin has to offer.

It’s a perfect night for music.

For three years, the ArtRocks Open Jam Sessions have provided opportunities for anyone who loves music and loves playing it. They can play on their own or they can play with the house band, Ventura Highway.

Wangen was the driving force for the event in the beginning. Recognizing the bounty of musical talent in the

by

Eric Johnson

area, Wangen wanted to give those musicians a chance to play for the public in a friendly, non-intimidating environment.

“I think a big thing is that it has given people an outlet,” Wangen said. “That was the original goal. There is so much talent around here. Without a doubt this has given all these people an outlet to play or sing. It’s been phenomenal.”

On its first night, the jam received a strong opening and from there it’s only gotten better, creating an environment that speaks to the musicians and those who just come to listen to good music.

“The attendance has gone up and up, almost consistently,” Wangen said. “It’s been extremely well-received.

It’s gone exactly how I think we thought it would, which was people not only come out and jam, but their friends and family come along to hear.”

Kelsey Ritchie, office manager for the Austin Area Commission for the Arts, gets perhaps one of the best seats in the house. Often times, Ritchie can be found bartending and so she sees just how big the jam sessions have become, especially the amount of people who coming to see the musicians.

A packed house, low lighting, it’s a great atmosphere for music at the ArtRocks Jam Sessions.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 17

“In 2017 our average attendance was between 60-80 people,” she said. “I remember one, the last one before the summer, we had well over 100 people up there. It was awesome. It was really fun.”

On any given night, there could be five to 10 musicians taking the stage, performing a wide array of music. While the lion’s share of those playing are from the area, both Wangen and Ritchie are seeing musicians coming from outside the community, from as far away as Rochester.

It’s a nod to the atmosphere the event creates, but more importantly how warm a reception the musicians get whether they are experienced or taking the stage for the first time.

“There is no place else you can do this,” said Wendy Larson, who was performing for the second time and is in bands including Full Circle, Cedar River Strings and Who Let the Mamas Out. “What I like about it is the diversity. It’s been gospel, jazz … lots of different genres.”

Everybody involved understands that many getting behind the microphone are either inexperienced or brand new to performing in front of an audience.

But it’s the opportunity that draws the performers.

It’s a forum so many want to be in front of, including Austin High School senior Mary Sullivan, a frequent performer. On this night she takes the stage alone with an acoustic guitar strapped around her shoulder.

Her voice carries strongly through the room as she eases into her first song. When she is done, the crowd whoops and whistles, earning a smile from Sullivan in return.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity,” Sullivan said before the night got under way. “Especially for those without a band, it’s a great opportunity to play with a band. It’s super supportive.”

Ventura Highway has brought solid support for the performers. The band is made up of a group of veteran musicians who know the stage, how to approach it and how to guide those unsure of themselves.

“It’s nonjudgmental and we as a house band try not to be intimidating,” Wangen said.

“We’re trying to be sensitive of that.”

“We know, sometimes … there are musicians not ready to get up,” he continued. “Everybody is encouraging.”

And that’s what it comes back to — the music. The entire night settles around the central fact that the music, for a couple hours, takes hold and lends a soundtrack to the night.

“This encourages a lot of people to keep playing music,” Sullivan said.

The sessions are scheduled for about two and a half hours, but sometimes that schedule is a loose one. “[It’s] 7-9:30 p.m., but most of the time they’ll run late,” Ritchie said. “If it’s happening and it’s fun and everybody is enjoying it … usually the staff doesn’t tell them to stop unless they are really going to go late.”

Upcoming ArtRocks Open Jam Sessions • February 23 • March 30 • April 27 • May 25

18 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Left: Wendy Larson, a member of several musical groups including Full Circle and Cedar River Strings, brought a bit of blue grass to her opportunity at the open mic.

Fans and musicians cluster in the lounge to listen and enjoy the scene. The ArtRocks Jam Sessions aren’t just about the musicians. The events are open to the public to just come and enjoy some music.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 19

Terry Schmidt, left, and Pete Jacobsen look through the doorway to catch the performers on stage. Schmidt played on the keyboards for the house band throughout the night. Below: A majority of participants are from the Austin area, but as word spreads, musicians from other communities visit, including John Steffel from St. Charles who took a turn on the keyboard.

As the event continues to gain Friday night traction once a month, talk inevitably turns to whether the sessions will turn to a larger venue. January’s session was packed with people, but not completely uncomfortable as people stood in doorways, sat in the lounge or at a table.

There has been talk about another location, but the ambience remains and for the foreseeable future, sessions will be kept at the ArtWorks Center.

“We have talked about whether or not it’s going to outgrow the space,” Ritchie said. “I don’t think it is. I think the space is just right for the amount of people who are going to come.”

She’s not wrong. It’s hard to beat the feel of the towering ceiling and tall windows atop hardwood floors that make up the intimate setting. It lends the perfect amount of musical vibe.

Another welcoming feature of the jam is the price tag: Free. That element allows for more freedom for those who can’t or don’t want to worry about a cover charge. That, along with the underground feel of the event, makes it even more of a welcoming event.

“I think the bigger thing is maybe to get the word out,” Wangen said. “It’s neat that it’s kind of an underground, wordof-mouth thing, but everybody that has come in has been, ‘I had no idea that this even existed.’”

20 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

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Absolute Energy helping fuel bright future in cancer prevention studies at Institute

By The Hormel Institute • Photos Provided

Funding + research The Hormel Institute’s team of expert research scientists appreciate it when people, businesses and organizations “get it” that scientific discoveries to improve human health only occurs through one avenue: funding.

Whether it is through national grants or donations, funding is necessary for research to move forward. And good research is what extends lives.

“We give to The Hormel Institute because it is just the right thing to do,” said Rick Schwarck, president of Absolute Energy, an ethanol manufacturing company just over the Iowa border, near Lyle. “Our guideline is that decisions have a goal to be green and green. Green in that we aim to be environmentally friendly and green in that it is financially sustainable for us as a company.”

Absolute Energy advocates for The Hormel Institute because of the cancer prevention connection. With ethanol improving air quality, and thereby reducing carcinogens in the air, it is a direct link to the work The Hormel Institute does in cancer prevention research. Rick also sits on the boards of many

of the top ethanol associations in the United States and has spearheaded gaining support for The Hormel Institute’s cancer prevention research from others.

Rick and his father Chris founded Absolute Energy in 2006 and it has been manufacturing ethanol for 10 years.

Currently, the company produces about 130 million gallons per year, with most customers in the eastern United States.

Rick was introduced to The Hormel Institute’s cancer research by former treasurer of The Hormel Foundation, Jerry Anfinson, and City Council member David Hagen.

The Hormel Institute is now the recipient of important annual funding support from Absolute Energy and its affiliate association, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA).

In September, thanks to the U.S. Grains Council and Schwarck, Dr. Steffen Mueller from the Energy Resources Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago, an expert on the impact of biofuels on the environment, spoke at a conference for The Hormel Institute in Zhengzhou, China, on the importance of reduc-

Above: Aboslute Energy president Rick Schwarck has been a proponent in the drive of green energies including the effort to cut carcinogens in the air from emissions. Absolute Energy near Lyle, Minnesota, has worked closely with The Hormel Institute toward this goal.

22 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

A customer holds up a Pink at the Pump T-Shirt at an Iowa Casey’s.

= discoveries ing emissions and known carcinogens. During that same week, China announced that 10 percent ethanol would be required by 2020.

“That was amazing timing of things coming together for the greater good,” Schwarck said. “That will make a huge impact on air quality and quality of life by China’s citizens being able to enjoy blue sky due to the cleaner air.

Just like cancer knows no borders, air quality knows no borders.”

Schwarck predicts the air quality improvements in China may also positively affect the western United States as well.

Last October, 64 stations throughout Iowa and five other states participated in “Pink at the Pump” by donating three cents of every gallon of E15 sold to The Hormel Institute and the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).

“For many it was the first time they’d heard of The Hormel Institute’s

cancer research and they became very supportive after learning 100 percent of every dollar given funds cancer research,” said Lucy Norton, managing director of IRFA. “Innovative cancer research and looking for healthier ways to prevent and control cancer matches the goals of this campaign.”

The IRFA hopes to further the campaign to additional states, which will be a great gain to win recognition for innovative cancer research and greater funding support.

Dr. Zigang Dong and The Hormel Institute and the University of Minnesota back the growing body of research that understands avoiding known carcinogens in air, water, food — wherever they may be found — is an important part of cancer prevention.

“Preventing cancer is the first approach we must take to improve lives and control cancer,” said Dong, who has led The Hormel Institute, UMN through two major expansions in 10 years. “Nearly half of cancers can be prevented just by lifestyle alone and the environment is part of that. We are thankful to Absolute Energy and Iowa Renewable Fuels Association for helping this vision be furthered.”

The Hormel Institute now has 17 research sections, with hiring underway for an additional 130-plus faculty and staff to be hired over the next few years.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 23

THE LIST

Preparing To Get Dirty As spring nears, Therese Manggaard shares five essential tools every gardener should have 24 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

By Christopher Baldus Stock Images Sand wastes little time, its grit sliding through your fingers. Clay, smooth to the touch, resists until it splits into clumps. But, dark, rich, loose garden soil rolls over your hands, leaving a shadow of its embrace.

That feeling of pressing your hands into the soil is a joy Therese Manggaard looks forward to.

Losing that experience would be a shame said the master gardener when she was asked about adding gardening gloves to the collection of tools a new gardener should gather to get started.

“Get your hands dirty,” she said, and she shared these top five pieces of gardening gear for gardeners already looking ahead to the new growing season:

1. A Triangle-Shaped Hoe

This style of hoe is ideal for cutting furrows for seeds and removing weeds in the rows, Manggaard said.

She has tried other types of hoes, but the flat or open-faced tools are prone to cutting weeds rather than lifting them out. Cut weeds will grow right back.

4. A Regular Spade Shovel

You could go with one of those short spade shovels — the ones with a handle on top and reach only to about the midsection of an average man. However, you likely will regret not getting a long-handled spade when you are trying to dig out a stubborn rogue shrub or weed that is in the way of your garden.

“You are going to want the leverage of a long shovel,” Manggaard said.

A long shovel will serve you better also if you need to turn over and prepare your garden soil by hand. She recommends getting your hands on a good rototiller for this task, but just in case, a shovel will do the job.

She advises to drink a lot of water, if you do that job.

5. A Hose with a Sprinkler Head 2. Garden Shears

You’ll want a pair of shears that are designed to spring back open after you engage the blades, otherwise your hand is going to get pretty tired, Manggaard said.

These shears are valuable in the garden as you need to trim away weak parts of plants that drain energy from the best producing vines.

This tool is also valuable outside the vegetable garden when is comes to pruning shrubs, dead-heading flowers and the like.

OK, that’s two things, but together they will help you evenly water your garden.

Manggaard suggested getting the sprinkler head that sprays like a shower head.

You need to water your garden, but don’t overdo it, she said.

A rule of thumb for watering your garden is to give it an inch a week. You don’t necessarily need to water each day. If it is too damp that encourages shallow roots. Plants do better if their roots need to push deeper to get water.

3. A Garden Rake

It’s difficult to improve on a classic design, although a peek into patents by the online journal “Atlas Obscura” shows that in 1894, Edmund Brown sought a patent for what he describes as “an automatically clearing attachment for iron tooth dooryard rakes.” When you pick the rake up, the attachment is supposed to push off leaves and debris.

While that didn’t really take off, the garden rake is a workhorse.

“You need this for leveling the soil and breaking up clumps,” Manggaard said.

Nice, worked up soil helps greatly with seed germination and strong healthy plants.

Beyond the tools, Manggaard also suggests you wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun and cancer down the road.

She encourages everyone to garden, but not because of the good food. There is more to it than that.

“Most people think of gardening as a means of eating well,” she said. It does so much more for you in terms of stress relief and exercise. It offers you something to look forward to each day, whether that is seeing the sprouting of your carrots or feeling the sensation of loose soil over your hands.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 25

AREA EATS

By Michael Stoll Photos by Eric Johnson

Colette Lea, co-owner of the Pizza Cellar with her husband Tony, holds the all-meat pizza available at the popular dining establishment.

26 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Right: The Nacho Supreme Platter is piled with seasoned beef, olives, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos and of course plenty of nacho cheese topping. The two-piece broasted chicken dinner comes with the golden favorite of two juicy pieces of the chicken along with potatoe wedges and cole slaw.

Blooming Prairie’s Pizza Cellar offers pizza and then some You’ve all heard of a pizza seller, but have you heard of Pizza Cellar?

If you’re from Blooming Prairie, you certainly have. As Blooming Prairie’s only non-chain pizza restaurant, The Pizza Cellar has been serving pizzas to southeast Steele County since 1989.

Located in an old building on Blooming Prairie’s Main Street, Pizza Cellar has been owned by husband and wife Tony and Colette Lea since 2006.

“My aunt and uncle came up with a concept of pizza and wine,” Colette said. “They had a wine cellar in the basement and their thought was people would come in, order a pizza, and they would match a wine with the certain pizza they ordered and go down and pick out the bottle. That’s where the ‘Cellar’ name came into it.”

Since then, they have developed a loyal following of customers, mainly from Blooming Prairie, Ellendale, Geneva and Hayfield.

Adorning the walls of the restaurant are old photographs

and memorabilia from the building’s past, such as a can of olives from when the building served as a grocery store.

Sitting down and viewing the menu, one is greeted by what you would expect at a place called The Pizza Cellar: pizza. Available as you design it or as one of their many specials, the pizza options are plentiful for anyone craving that delectable combination of breading, sauce and cheese.

“The crust we make from scratch in a huge Hobart mixer at least every other day, if not everyday, depending on how busy we are,” Colette said. “We measure it and roll it out ourselves. We make our sauce ourselves, too. We get our spices from a man who makes them up north. That has been the original recipe here. We slice our own cheese from huge cheese blocks every single day. Same with all of our vegetables we use on our pizza. They’re hand-chopped every day.”

But also included on the menu are items that one would not expect to find at a pizza restaurant, such as burgers, popcorn shrimp and broasted chicken with potato wedges.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 27

“The broasted chicken came as an idea from my uncle,” Colette said. “I don’t know why they decided to come up with that idea, because it originated as pizza, sandwiches and spaghetti. That was their main thing. Then they added the grill, so hamburgers and roll-ups were added to the menu.

And that was what they offered when we bought the place.”

“It just is,” she added.

And if it isn’t broke, why fix it? While they’ve added some other items like salads, the Leas decided to keep the items from the old menu. In a small town, it was the right move.

“The biggest challenge is to keep our prices competitive and not serving the volume that other places do,” Colette said.

“We want to keep our prices low to keep people to stay in town instead of going to a huge chain restaurant. It’s hard to compete with the other pizza places that sell their pizza at a cheaper price. We really can’t afford to do that.”

The Leas have also provided menu items to go along with the latest health fads too.

“We’ve been offering gluten-free pizzas for about five years now,” Colette said. “Right when the gluten-free thing got really popular, I looked into it, so we do offer gluten-free crusts and we sell a lot of them. We have ribs every Friday night and our barbecue sauce is gluten-free.”

But the food isn’t the only attraction. The restaurant shares the building with the Cue Company, also owned by the Leas, and the upstairs area plays host to pool tournaments and other events.

“We have so much stuff that goes on here that sometimes I wonder where things would be held in Blooming Prairie if they couldn’t use our rooms,” Colette said.

The Leas also said the building is haunted … but that’s another story.

The Pizza Cellar offers more to eat than just their pizza. Add to that the Nacho Supreme Platter and two-piece broasted chicken dinner.

Not sure what you want on your pizza, or if you want pizza at all?

Here are a few suggestions from the Leas. n House Special – Can’t decide what you want on

your pizza? Why not just get it all? This pizza comes with pepperoni, hamburger, sausage, Canadian bacon, onions, green olives, green peppers and mushrooms. n All Meat – It’s like the House Special, just remove the

vegetables and you have a pizza that can satisfy your inner carnivore. n Broasted Chicken – Not to be confused with fried chicken, the seasoning on this chicken, combined with the juices sealed in perfectly by the broaster, will make you question where it has been all your life. n Nacho Supreme Platter – Offered as an appetizer, this pile of chips, nacho cheese and taco meat topped with lettuce, black olives and jalapeños is frequently ordered as a meal. n Ranch Dressing – Made in house, the ranch dressing is very popular. As Colette said, “I think people drink it because we go through a lot of ranch everyday.”

The Pizza Cellar is open Monday through Saturday from 4-10 p.m. and on Sunday from 4-9 p.m. They can be reached at 507-583-7675.

28 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 29

HOME & HEARTH

Chicken Burrito Bowls are layers of great flavors and convenience.

Around the Table

N

ew day ew opportunities

By Jen Haugen, RDN, LD

Take a planned approach to your kitchen activities

W

hat if you had something in front of you that allowed you to laser focus on what you really want for 2018? Is it healthier eating?

Is it cooking at home more or improving cooking skills so you can eat healthier? Is it pruning out a few things so you can have better life balance and self-care? What’s your BFG (big fun goal) for the year?

It’s not too late to focus on what you really want. Each day is a new day and a new opportunity to grow, as in a popular phrase: 365 days, 365 new chances.

The best tool for this is a vision board.

This is a physical board of pictures cut from magazines that show exactly what it is you want to achieve and words that are motivating you to get there. Not only will having a vision board improve your time management skills (as you will know what to focus on each day), it helps you make decisions and determine if opportunities fit well with where you are going.

Do it for yourself, do it with your family. You will be surprised at the process and the outcome. (Don’t forget to put it in 30 | Austin Living | March-April 2018

a good location so you don’t forget about it!).

One thing that falls on my board every year is healthy eating at home — surprise, right?! But enhancing my cooking skills and our health, teaching cooking skills to my kids using tools that make it fast and fun, and enjoying new flavors are all a part of that.

DIY meals or “Build Your Own” style meals are popular and work so well in families because everyone has different taste preferences — and it’s like eating at a restaurant, but more balanced and healthy (and dare I say more fun!?). Set the ingredients in bowls on the counter for this recipe and watch what happens.

Sometimes the best meals are where everyone has the power to choose what goes on the plate — or the bowl, so to speak.

With these Chicken Burrito Bowls, you can use them as a recipe for your next family meal, you can use the leftovers to fill a salad jar for work, or you can combine the ingredients in new and different ways for leftovers like quesadillas.

About Jen Jen Haugen, RDN, LD, is a mom and dietitian who helps other moms with time-saving tips, tools, and tasty recipes to help moms everywhere take better care of themselves and nourish themselves well, so they can nourish their family well. Book your wellness appointment or schedule your cooking workshop with Jen on her website at www. jenhaugen.com. She is the author of “The Mom’s Guide to a Nourishing Garden,” is a director and independent consultant with Pampered Chef, and is a nutrition consultant and nationallyrecognized speaker.

Chicken Burrito Bowls First, make this delicious Cilantro Ranch Dressing: •1 lime •½ cup low-fat buttermilk •2/3 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt •1 teaspoon Dijon mustard •1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro •1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper •2 garlic cloves, pressed Zest the lime to measure 1 teaspoon of zest, juice the lime to measure 2 tablespoons of lime juice. Combine the zest, juice and remaining ingredients and mix until blended. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Remaining ingredients for the bowls: •1 cup quinoa, uncooked •3 cups water •3/4 cup reduced-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained •1-1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved •¾ cup medium orange bell pepper, cut in half •¾ cup frozen corn, thawed •6 cups shredded romaine lettuce •2 cups cooked, diced chicken •Optional toppings: Fresh salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips Combine quinoa and water in 3 quart microwave-safe dish, microwave covered on high for 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Set out all ingredients and toppings and allow your family to choose how they would like to eat their chicken burrito bowl. Don’t forget the Cilantro Lime Dressing!

Recipe source: pamperedchef.com Did you know I can show you how to make this recipe in a fun cooking workshop? Or I can work with you one-on-one for healthier meals and better health? Schedule yours today at jenhaugen.com.

March-April 2018 | Austin Living | 31

Just wander in

By Christopher Baldus Photos by Eric Johnson

Larry Crowe works on a wooden snowflake he has been working on during the Woodcarver Club.

32 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Woodcarver Club has an open chair for those with the interest The little guy had a blue face, a big nose and a toothy grin. It could be that he was tickled that his days of being smacked by a golf club were long gone.

With half of its dimpled shell shucked to reveal its hard rubber core, the golf ball with a face is the creation of Romans Kikuts, who has been carving for about three years now. The blue material in the ball is nice for carving, he said.

A few chairs away from him at this meeting of The Woodcarver Club, another carver was making a golfer out of basswood.

The club, which currently has between eight and a dozen members, will happily welcome more. The word meeting likely is a bit too formal for the gathering that takes place from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Mower County Senior Center in Austin. The guys kind of wander in throughout the morning, said member Russell Vaale, who is in his 90s.

He encourages potential carvers to simply stop by on a Wednesday. Experience is not necessary, and they don’t need to bring anything. Club members will help you along, he said.

Carver Dan Lee said Vaale helped him get started.

“I had been in scouting in different positions for years with my sons as they came up through,” said Lee. “Every once in a while they would come up with something, their scout jacknife of something; and I had retired and really needed something to do.”

He heard about the club and found Vaale’s phone number.

“I gave him a call and he says, ‘Oh yeah, you can come down any Wednesday morning and we’ll be here.’ He got me started. He got me a knife to use and he got me a piece of wood.”

Everyone does their own thing, and if inspiration is needed, they have woodcarver books with patterns and guidance on a table off to the side of the row of tables set up as their communal workshop.

Vaale said he enjoys making birds; his latest is a bluebird made of basswood, which is a preferred wood to work with.

Butternut is another popular wood.

“It’s just been carved and sanded,” he said of the bird.

“And now I’ve got to put the feathers and the details. There’s a lot of work to do on it yet.”

Tools of the craft include specialized knives, gouges and v-blades to add details.

Lee is working on a flower lapel pin, using a v-blade to outline the pedals.

Kikuts has a few projects he’s working on, including carving a loose ball inside a cylinder structure. He’s taking his time with it, making small cuts on the ball and leaving braces a little big until he’s closer to the finishing touches. He will sand the ball smooth, and jokes that he used to use his wife’s emery boards for that kind of thing until she got wise to him.

“I think a lot of these things are for gifts,” Vaale said.

The camaraderie is as much a part of the meetings as the carving. Paging through a magazine, carver Darryl Saurer stops on a fishing lure. His father used to make lures — without hooks — for spearfishing, he said.

“It’s kind of like a decoy, is what it is,” Vaale said.

“Yeah, it’s called a decoy,” Saurer said.

The Woodcarver Club look over each other’s work and talk during a get-together at the Mower County Senior Center.

Below: A pair of pieces in progress sit out as Woodcarver Club member Romans Kikuts digs out his tools.

“To draw the fish in,” Vaale said.

Explaining how to spear fish through the ice, Saurer said you need to be in a totally dark fish house, sitting on a chair ready to strike into the hole.

“You have to have a really dark house when you spear,” he said. “You can’t have any light.”

He paused, and then added: “I had a muskrat come into my house once. He thought it was his house. I hit that door so hard.”

There’s no arguing with a muskrat, another carver laughed.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 33

Marvin window combines state-ofthe-art window design with a clean, classic style. Advanced engineering and the highest quality construction make this window incredibly durable, versatile, and easy to use.

Freeborn Lumber Co. 917 Plaza Street W Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-377-4284

34 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 35

Role Future in the

Students are playing a part in the schools they attend

36 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

The Riverland Student Sentate holds its first meeting of the new year in January.

C

ommunities are built on the shoulders of its leaders and the students within these schools house the leaders of tomorrow.

Throughout Austin’s schools — Riverland Community College, Austin Public Schools and Pacelli Catholic Schools — are examples of what the students in those institutions are bringing each and every day.

Reading on you will get to meet some of the students that are making a difference starting with Riverland’s Student Senate, who is actively taking a role in the concerns of the student body they represent.

You will also meet the officers of the senate as well as some students from the Austin and Pacelli schools. They are proud examples of the leaders of tomorrow.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 37

Working for change Riverland Student Senate making its voice heard

By Deb Nicklay • Photos

by

Eric Johnson

B

Council representative eing a to LeadMN. senator of Oballa and the Riverland Wubneh hold Community College positions in LeadMN, Student Senate is an organization no small thing, representing 180,000 said Student Senate students in all of the President Oballa Riverland Student Senate President Oballa Oballa, Vice President Johnson Oballa.

Hongwei Cui and Secretary Amadu Sheriff during January’s meeting. Oballa state’s public twoyear colleges, who “Thank you for was leading a conversation on upcoming caucuses. advocate for the being a part of the financial, educational and accessibility best student organization on campus,” needs of its students. said Oballa, emphasizing the fact with Oballa is a member of the platform new senators during a January meeting. committee, while Wubneh represents “We are playing a big role on our the southeast district to the Governing campus.”

Council.

Oballa did not overstate that role.

The Governing Council initiates Whether it is about helping establish Oballa Oballa legislative advocacy, talking to state a college food pantry, preparing for a Riverland Student Senate leaders on issues facing students. The “Caucus Blitz” — a way to entice students president group looks forward to Advocacy Day to get involved in the election process — at the Capitol this month, when they or being the mouthpiece for students to will take on topics such as rising tuition costs and Open the college’s administration, the 15-member RCC Student Education Resources, which are online resources that Senate is working hard and taking seriously its role as could replace too-expensive textbooks. Another issue student leaders. may be the cost of orientation fees, that can be as much The group meets weekly to discuss, evaluate and as $200. Both will travel to Washington, D.C. in March to plan activities that will provide help to Riverland talk to national leaders as part of LeadMN. students, as well as advocate for students on issues “When your voice is raised is when legislators listen,” affecting them — often based on the rising cost of Wubneh said. education. Advising the group is RCC assistant librarian, Raising the tenor of that voice is being sought by the Keith Cich. senate during the Caucus Blitz, a challenge set down by Joining Oballa in rounding out the leadership core is LeadMN to gather as many student pledges as possible Johnson Hongwei Cui, vice president; Amadu S. Sheriff, that says the students will participate in their local caucus, secretary; and Darien Schroeder, treasurer. While not held just before this issue published. an officer, member Seni Wubneh serves as a Governing

‘We are playing a big role on our campus.’

38 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

The officers who are leading this year’s Riverland Community College’s Student Senate, from left: Secretary Amadu S. Sheriff, Vice President Johnson Hongwei Cui, Treasurer Darien Schroeder, President Oballa Oballa and LeadMN Governing Council member Seni Wubneh.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 39

Seni Wubneh informs the Riverland Student Senate of an upcoming conference in Washington, D.C. that is open to members to attend.

‘If you are a leader, you should practice leadership.’

Amadu S. Sheriff, student senate secretary

“We want to encourage students to get involved, so they know who they are electing,” Oballa said. The local group was hoping to get 150 pledges; but Oballa said why not get 400?

“When you do something you have passion for, you go farther,” he said.

The group is proud of its push for a food pantry that provides cash-strapped students with meals.

“It has brought so much joy to our students,” he said.

“We have seen a great turn-out .”

A winter clothing drive has also been appreciated, said Misty Konn, another senator. A blood drive is planned for March, and a Color Run/Walk in April. That event will also help raise funds for the food pantry. It follows a failed attempt at a similar run last October, but bad weather forced a cancellation of the event.

40 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

“We will tell people, ‘Get yourself dirty and then go home and feel the happiness,” Oballa said with a laugh.

Adviser Keith Cich praised the group, noting that senators meet with the administration once a month.

“They are impressed with how well-organized they are,” said Cich.

Oballa said senators strive to be good communicators and that they serve as role models for the people they represent.

Oballa said if a student calls him at 4 a.m., he is going to answer the phone and hear what they have to say.

“We are the voice of our students; we cannot neglect or ignore them,” he said. “And as senators, we want to keep our grades up; we want to do our best to be a good student, and a good leader.”

“If you are a leader, you should practice leadership,” agreed the secretary of the Senate, Amadu S. Sheriff.

Riverland Student Senate member Su Meh brings up a question during the first meeting of 2018. Meh is one of the new members to the senate.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 41

L

eaders of Tomorrow

Stories by Deb Nicklay Photos by Eric Johnson

Over the next few pages you will meet the students who work to be a part of their community and the future.

Oballa Oballa

Oballa Oballa Riverland Student Senate President

As president of the Riverland Community College Student Senate, Oballa Oballa knows about leading others.

A native of Ethiopia who came to this country in 2013, Oballa was “given the chance to enroll in high school, through Job Corps, in Rapid City, South Dakota,” said the 24 year-old.

“Everyone wanted to help me,” he said. “Then they suggested I run for the Student Council.”

Unfamiliar with the ways of elections, he wasn’t quite sure 42 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

what to say when someone asked him when he would start to campaign for the office of president.

“I knew nothing,” he emphasized with a laugh. “I said, ‘What’s a campaign?’”

But, as you might guess, Oballa won the election.

When he came to Riverland, “the first thing I wanted to do was to know the students,” and it wasn’t long before he was drawn to its student government.

“I felt like Riverland was a great school, with great diversity and great leaders,” he said.

“I felt, ‘We can be connected here,’” he added. “And that brought me to the Student Senate, where I could be a voice for students, for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

He has embraced the role of president; recently, he expanded his voice when he became a member of the Austin Human Rights Commission.

“We as the first generation (of new citizens), need more leaders, men and women,” he said. “We need to train our leaders for the future. I always ask and wonder who will take that spot.”

Oballa is also a member of the Platform Committee of the LeadMN organization — a state-level group of student representatives of Minnesota’s public, two-year colleges. Led by a Governing Council, LeadMN advocates for students, as well as trains leaders. That focus fits Oballa to a glove.

The committee consists of nine regional representatives and one student-at-large; together, they research and recommend stances on issues that reflect the interests of students at two-year and vocational technical colleges. Oballa represents the Southeast District of LeadMN. High tuition (“We are the fifth highest in tuition; that is disturbing,” he says) is a priority and the passage of OER — the Open Educational Resources — that would allow students to use low to no-cost digital material would save students thousands of dollars in textbook fees.

“It is our main concern, the cost of textbooks goes higher and higher,” he said. “Students can save that money for their classes instead.”

He is privileged, he said, to be a part of a LeadMN delegation who will send 36 representatives of the organization to Washington, D.C., in March. They will speak with congressmen and senators about the needs facing community college students.

“When we are back here, we hope that what we did will motivate other students,” he said, adding he is proud of representing the college and LeadMN. And, the college is proud of him, said Keith Cich, who advises the group.

“He does such a great job; to see him grow in his role has been great to watch,” he said.

Oballa is seeking a nursing degree; in the future, he hopes to earn human services and psychology degrees.

And that makes perfect sense for this student leader, whose life of service is of long standing, but in other ways, is just beginning.

Seni Wubneh

Seni Wubneh LeadMN Governing Council

Seni Wubneh is a member of the Riverland Community College Student Senate — but she is a lot more than that.

She is also a member of the LeadMN Governing Council, as a representative of the Southeast District. The Governing Council consists of nine regional representatives, the chair of the Presidents’ Group and one student-at-large. They are the official governing board of the association and meet periodically throughout the year to guide the business of the organization and make decisions when appropriate.

That’s a far cry from the woman who said she used to be “too shy” to raise her voice in large groups.

But then she became a member of the Student Senate, where she served as vice president a year ago. The 24-year-old nursing student found how much she enjoyed the role the Senate played in student lives.

“I really enjoyed it; I wanted to see what more I could do,” in her election to the Governing Council.

“I was really shy; but I found I could better my skills, be a better voice,” she said. “And to take everyone’s voices to (affect) change.”

She added the skills being learned can be applied to her future role as a nurse and as a citizen.

“It is important to me,” she said. “It helps you be helpful to others, and grow as a person.”

And while not apparent at first, it is clear to her the skills will be most important in her nursing career.

“Nurses have to lead in everything — working with different people, time management, communicating well.

It (leadership qualities) helps you with an all-around skill set.”

She is well-versed in the issues brought to the Governing Council, and enjoys the liaison function she has. She can bring local ideas, generated by Riverland students, to the council, while she can keep the Riverland senators apprised of how the issues are faring at the state level. She will be part of the group’s General Assembly in upcoming months. The General Assembly consists of a voting delegation from each of the 48 campuses LeadMN represents. The General Assembly meets twice a year to guide the organization, once in the fall to approve what the organization stands for, and once in the spring to elect the next year’s student leaders.

The role also broadens her understanding of legislative work, both at the state and federal levels. LeadMN helps advocate for students to state legislators when it comes time for action on essential points such as tuition. At a recent Student Senate meeting, she spoke forcefully about orientation fees, which for some students cost as much as $200. Colleges can set their own fees for orientations — those initial meetings for freshmen that provide information about college operation.

In March, she will join fellow Student Senate member Oballa Oballa and travel to the U.S. Capitol with other Lead MN representatives, to take student voices to the national level.

“At the end of the day … I want to make it easier for any student” to attend college, she said.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 43

He likes the idea of representing students and those issues that affect them. He also likes that the ideas generated in the Student Senate can be circulated among a wider audience.

“I like the idea you can bring ideas to the Governing Council (of LeadMN, a statewide student organization representing public, two-year colleges),” he said. “I want to be able to speak for students who cannot speak for themselves.”

He feels strongly about the difficult financial challenges that face some students in today’s environment. Minnesota’s tuition rates are among the highest in the nation.

One way to alleviate a bit of the pressure would be to lessen the cost of textbooks, which can rocket over the $1,400 mark in the course of a year.

One of the issues being taken up by the Governing Council is to implement Open Educational Resources, most commonly known by its acronym of OER. The practice of using online materials would lessen the burden on students.

“It is something that should be passed,” he said. “OER would cost $40 or less (a year) and that would help a lot. And, it would help the environment (by not using so much paper).”

Amadu S. Sheriff Secretary

Johnson Hongwei Cui

Johnson Hongwei Cui Vice President

This year in the Riverland Student Senate was a time of learning for student Johnson Hongwei Cui. As vice president, he works with the officer corps to organize activities, fundraisers, and provide a voice for students about things they wanted to see done, or changes made, at the college.

He has a desire to lead, and learn the skills of a good leader.

The 21-year-old sees his position as an officer as another step in a life goal that will take him into the world of business.

He wants to pursue majors in business and marketing.

“As vice president, I can learn more about leadership,” he said, following a January meeting. “I think that some of the skills I will learn here are the same skills I will need in the future, with a marketing degree. And, I like to help others.”

He is a native of China and has been in the United States for four years.

44 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

One thing you learn when you speak with Riverland Community College Student Senate Secretary Amadu S. Sheriff is, this guy has passion.

Sheriff, a native of Liberia and a student seeking a career in computer technology, is an active learner who does not fail to find words when it comes to those things he cares about.

Leadership and the responsibility it carries are of high value to him. It is one of the reasons he is a member of the Student Senate, where he serves as secretary.

“If you are a leader, you should practice leadership,” he says when speaking of service to the Student Senate. In other words, you can’t just be a name on a membership list.

He’s not. Although a conflict kept him from attending much of the meeting of the senate on this day, he manages to come in during the last portion. While some might have skipped it altogether, that doesn’t work for him. He attends, even if for a few minutes. His apologies, you could tell, were heartfelt.

“I am so sorry, so sorry,” he told the group.

Still, you could tell that for the remaining time left, his demeanor was one of someone intensely interested in the topic at hand, offering comments when he felt it was important.

He has had a lot of practice honing his skills. Before coming to the United States three years ago, he already had experience in student groups in his native Liberia. That did not change when he came to the U.S. He added that “the Student Senate welcomed me” as the secretary, a position “that I embrace.”

“I carry an interest in our student population” and the needs they face, he added.

He said he sees a new energy being felt among members of the student body at Riverland.

“It is always a challenge to come up with new ideas, and to reach out,” he said. “We should spend every second, every

Amadu S. Sheriff

Darien Schroeder

hour, every day, to think about what we can do in a new way.”

His position as secretary will strengthen his resolve to work for others, he said. His goal is to learn all he can, to help the group accomplish its goals, work with the administration “in a proper way,” he said, and to interact with other student organizations.

There are a lot of pressures facing students — time, money, decisions — and he will do his best, he said, to represent those interests.

“I feel I have to achieve, to make a change, have a dream,” he said. “I do believe leadership is my star, one to pursue. When I came to this country, I felt I needed to carry it on at Riverland Community College,” he said.

Darien Schroeder Treasurer

Darien Schroeder sits to the left of Riverland Student

Senate President Oballa Oballa.

And, to the uninformed, she looks like any other college student.

But then you learn that she is only 16 years-old — but that did not stop her from becoming treasurer of the Student Senate at Riverland Community College.

The Austin High School junior is taking a full load of college classes under the Post-secondary Enrollment Options, whereby high school students can attend college classes in their junior and senior years. That made her eligible to become a member of the Student Senate. At Riverland, there are about 15 members in the Senate.

She has attended five meetings and so far, “they have been a great experience.”

“I wanted to be treasurer,” she said. “I’m good at numbers; I can budget my own money — I know how much to spend, how much is enough for a certain amount of time.

And the position is a great way to learn leadership skills.”

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 45

And, she added, she was excited to be involved in a college activity. She has previously attended the local alternative school.

Schroeder is debating a future career and right now, she is not sure whether or not to get a law degree and become an attorney.

“It would give me a lot of satisfaction,” she said. “But I don’t know yet.”

Schroeder takes seriously the issues facing her fellow students. Student poverty is a concern, she added.

“There are students who don’t have enough money for school,” she said. “I am glad we have a food pantry, and we have a coat pantry too.”

Schroeder said she would work to lower tuition costs for students and promote use of online information rather than charge students the high cost of textbooks.

Her brother, John, is also a member of the Student Senate.

“He is a lot smarter than me,” she said emphatically.

Jon DiGiovanni Austin High School

Jon DiGiovanni, 17, shows up to his interview in a suit, short hair and a handshake. The AHS junior is a member of the MAAP (Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs) Stars and is also a state officer.

He is proud of his work in MAAP and serving as an alternative school role model for others kids who used to be like him, in believing that few people in your life cared about you.

Some years back, he probably would not have been the best of role models, although through no fault of his own.

“I lived in just about all 50 states,” he said, while growing up.

His father was an alcoholic and abusive, he said. Finally, his mother left with her children and “we just kept moving around,” he said.

When the moves were made, DiGiovanni lost valuable school time. By the time he came to Austin three years ago, the home life had settled and his stepfather proved a steadying force in his life, but school continued to be tough. He not only had lost valuable lesson time during the moves, he had few friends.

“I was depressed and lonely,” he said. He suffered social anxiety.

That changed when he began attending the Alternative Learning Center and became a member of MAAP. MAAP advocates, he said, for students in alternative settings and to keep funding for the schools intact.

“Some people have this image, that an alternative school is full of bad kids. There is a lot of misinformation about alternative schools out there; kids in alternative school just want to graduate — and we learn a little differently.”

When he entered the Army National Guard last summer at Fort Sill, Oklahoma., his life profoundly changed. A panic disorder began to abate and he worked to move out of his comfort zone and try new things. He learned about teamwork, 46 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Jon DiGiovanni

and he learned to trust those around him. Today, he looks toward attending the University of Minnesota to earn a degree in herpetology — the study of amphibians and reptiles.

He said he is most inspired by his two siblings — both younger than him — who kept him steady when he wanted to explode, he said, all those years ago.

“I knew I had to take care of them, and they kept me going,” DiGiovanni said.

Kristine Schechinger Austin High School

Kristine Schechinger has always been at home in a farming environment; that love brought her to a membership in 4-H and FFA. The 17-year-old Austin High School senior has also been at home as a leader of her peers. This year, she serves as president of the Austin High School FFA, as well as serving on the Region 8 FFA Board, as an assistant officer.

She also serves on the advisory board for Mower County

Kristine Schechinger

4-H. She is a member of the AHS band, and has also been involved in track.

Schechinger seems a natural leader. She hopes that the qualities learned along the way as a youngster puts her in good company as she begins to create her future plans.

“Being a leader is someone who helps someone else,” said Schechinger. “Someone who stands behind someone else and mentors them; who takes on the role of someone who looks at what needs be done and asks, ‘OK, how do we get there?’”

She has had her mentors. One is Austin FFA adviser Linnay Yarger, who “is a really great person; and she always helps in any way possible,” Schechinger said. “She pushes me to be my very best; she will always help in any way possible,” she said.

She feels the same way about her livestock judging team coach, John Carroll.

“He has taught me that you have to be mentally focused, physically focused, to do your best,” she said.

Schechinger will take her talents to the University of

Chandler Pratt

Minnesota College of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resource Sciences, where she hopes to earn a degree in agricultural education with a minor in animal science.

Well, maybe.

“I’ve also thought of getting an ag communications and marketing degree, she said.

“I’m just not sure at this point … we’ll just have to see,” she said.

Chandler Pratt Austin High School

Despite some tough issues in his home life, Chandler Pratt, a junior at Austin High School, has not only prevailed, he has advanced.

Part of the reason is his ability to focus on problems — usually having to do with technology, because he is really, really smart — and to problem-solve.

The other part might just be self-awareness — unusual in one so young.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 47

“I didn’t want this to happen to me,” he said, referring to some of the family issues.

So, he got busy. He joined STAND (Students Taking a New Direction) as part of APAC, Austin Positive Action Coalition. The coalition works to reduce alcohol, tobacco and other drug use among peers by empowering and supporting each other to make healthy choices.

“We work to help people understand that not all kids are dealing and using drugs,” he said .

From there, he was elected to attend the two-day Youth Leadership Academy in Brainerd. The team emphasizes promotion of the positive outlook — in the community and in relationships with peers.

“I look at things, and try to find three positives to one negative,” he said.

He has been inspired with APAC Director Bill Spitzer, and Matthew Monroe, who serves as IT support for the Austin School District.

“They have both inspired me a lot,” he said.

He has completed an internship at Simplified Technology Solutions in the community, after which he was hired by the company. He works after school at the shop. He plans to attend college and earn a degree in information technology.

He is also a member of the Student Tech Team at AHS, and helps kids with technology problem; and the Link Crew, providing help to incoming freshmen.

Leadership, he said, is being able to know when you have made a mistake and then used that experience to change for the better.

“And let people see that you are a different person; what is past is past,” he said.

Emma Haugen

Emma Haugen Ellis Middle School

At 12 years of age, Emma Haugen might be young, but when she sees someone in need, she is called to action.

The Ellis Middle School seventh-grader has taken an active hand in preparing small kits, called Blessing Bags, for the homeless.

Many might see homeless people and turn away. But Haugen, even at her young age, opted to help without judgement and with compassion.

“Our family would be driving by homeless people in the street — we would see some more than once,” she said.

That sparked an idea to create the kits. The small packages contain essential items, a pair of socks or gloves, some food items, such as crackers, or granola; toothbrush and toothpaste, a bar of soap, peanut butter, tissues, a bottle of water, and a small bar of chocolate. She and her family have gathered items for 22 kits to date.

There is also a short message inserted into the kits that is equally important.

It says, “You have been blessed and prayed for with this blessing bag,” as well as a verse from Jeremiah 29:11. It says, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to 48 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

The family keeps some of the kits in their car for distribution. Some have also been given to her church, Our Savior’s Lutheran, as well as to Ellis Middle School Principal Jason Senne, to distribute as the need arises.

“We want them to know they’re loved and cared for,” she said, adding that Austin doesn’t have a homeless shelter.

It is important to care for one another, she added.

“I have a warm home, but there are people who don’t have what I do,” she said.

It is not the first time that Haugen has shown her willingness to serve others. The daughter of Corey and Jen Haugen has served in her grade school and middle school student councils, and is a member of the National Junior Honor Society.

“I’m involved in different activities,” she said. “I like serving on Student Council because you can help make

decisions for the students. I like to help out.”

Her eagerness to improve the lives of others isn’t limited to human friends.

“I love animals,” she said enthusiastically, and would love to attend the University of Minnesota after graduation, to earn a degree in veterinary science.

Abigail Nelson Pacelli High School

Abigail Nelson may be young — she is only 14 — but she is not at all afraid “to stand up for what I believe in,” she said.

The Pacelli High School freshman learned early from her brother, Nathan, how hurtful being bullied could be.

Nathan, who is today 23 and establishing a business in Hayfield, has a brittle bone disease that left him with bowed legs and was the target of name-calling when he was young.

“I always tried to take action when I saw that happen,” she said.

That would be a typical reaction for Nelson, who Pacelli High School Principal Laura Marreel calls “amazing.”

“She jumps at the chance to problem-solve, and always steps up to lead among her peers,” Marreel said. “She is the first one to intervene and advocate for those who are hurting.”

“I think what makes her such a great leader is her positive, hopeful attitude in all she does, and the caring way she works with others.”

“I want to be the optimistic person,” Nelson agreed. “I like the sense of leadership; I like people to know that I care about everybody else.”

Nelson is the daughter of Amanda and Dustin Nelson.

They, she said, were the first positive influences in her life.

“They’re optimistic people,” Nelson said. “And they’re always there when I need them.”

Nelson is active in a number of activities, including the arts, the sciences, and dance, taking an active lead role in a robotic science competition and is on the track and tennis teams.

She is also a member of the Student Council and Peer Power Partners. Peer Power Partners is a mentoring program model which partners youth with special needs and sameaged peers to promote friendships, understanding and advocacy.

“My mom and dad always told me, ‘Always like someone until you have a reason not to,‘” she said.

One day, she hopes to have a career in pediatric health sciences.

“I want to help children who are hurting,” she said. “I want to be the person that helps. That would really speak to me.”

Shenali DeSilva Pacelli High School

Although Shenali DeSilva has two years left of high school after this year, she already has a long history of affecting change in her school and spreading positive messages.

Abigail Nelson

DeSilva, 15, while still a young girl, saw struggles in other countries. Her family is from Sri Lanka.

“I still have a lot of family there, who don’t have the same resources as we do in our country,” she said. “There are so many places that are as bad, or worse,” she added.

She turned that passion to help into action at an early age. According to Pacelli High School Principal Laura Marreel, “Shenali started in elementary school raising money for Haiti after reading about the great needs they had in a “Time For Kids” magazine. Her campaign to educate students and invoke action allowed her to send much needed supplies to Haiti to help families she has never met.”

DeSilva was also instrumental in helping establish a student program at Pacelli called HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America). She approached science instructor Jonathan McDonough to help with the group, but both McDonough and Marreel are quick to say that DeSilva leads the group.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 49

Pal Koak

Shenali DeSilva

She has organized a number of activities for the organization, including trips to hospitals to see the types of technology available in the facilities, as well as seek out information about healthcare occupations.

She took first place in the state last year in a HOSA leadership competition for completing a project to raise awareness about domestic abuse in the community, Marreel said.

Healthcare is near to her heart, she said. Her mother, Shayana, is a pediatrician with Mayo Clinic Health System — and an inspiration to her daughter.

“I’ve watched her work so hard to keep people healthy,” she said. “She comes home so exhausted; she cares so much.”

She is not exactly sure where her own interest in medicine will take her, but she is excited to find out.

“I want to help as many people as I can,” she said.

But then, she has other aspirations, too.

50 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

“I want to build schools. I want to build hospitals” in countries that cannot easily offer the most basic of needs.

“I don’t know how I’m going to get there yet,” she said with a grin — a very confident grin — “but I will.”

Pal Koak

Pacelli High School

When you meet Pacelli junior Pal Koak, you are immediately struck by his determination — and it is no surprise that the first name to come to mind when he thinks of a leader is Nelson Mandela.

“His work to end apartheid … for me, seeing what happened, I was angry. But I was inspired; there was no bloodshed.” Mandela was the also the focus of Pal’s History Day project, for which he earned a medal.

Mandela’s life supports his own belief that you can learn valuable lessons from others that will help shape your life.

“It is good to learn a different perspective; it’s good to go

ahead and change things,” he said.

He is already considered a leader at Pacelli.

“Pal is one of the most mature high school students I know,” said Pacelli High School Principal Laura Marreel. “He is determined to learn as much as he can from every leader in his life. Often times Pal will come to my office and ask me a series of questions that make me reflect on the core of why I do what I do.

“Pal not only learns subjects, he takes the time to learn about the people around him, what makes them successful, and what he can take away from the relationship that will help him be successful in his own life.”

Pal came to the U.S. from Ethiopia in 2008. His father, Tot Koak, works for the United Nations in Ethiopia. In the U.S. Pal and his family came under the tutelage of his relative, Solomon Paul, who is today head of the Welcome Center in Austin.

Like the others in this series from Pacelli, Pal saw early the heartbreak of people who do not have enough. He has a medical condition that requires medication; he recalled worrying about another child in his country who did not have the resources for proper treatment.

He is active in a number of activities, including debate and One-Act Play. He says debate is a valuable tool for life.

“If you and I disagree on something, you can still get along; the purpose is not to overpower one another, but to understand without getting upset.”

He plans to enter the biomedical field for a career yet to be shaped.

“Pal isn’t afraid of a challenge, and sees struggles as opportunities to grow,” Marreel said. “He has added so much value to the lives of those around him, I cannot wait to see how he changes the world.”

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 51

TRAVEL

Angel, one of four eagles at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, takes a bite out of some rabbit during a demonstration.

52 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Right: Several exhibits inside the National Eagle Center take visitors into all aspects of the eagle.

Up close with an icon The National Eagle Center in Wabasha gives visitors the chance to experience eagles as never before

By Rocky Hulne • Photos If you’ve ever wanted to go to face to face with the symbol of America, the National Eagle Center in Wabasha may just be the place for you.

The NEC gives visitors a rare opportunity to get within a few feet of three majestic bald eagles and a golden eagle without a plate of glass in between. According to NEC marketing manager Ed Hahne, the experience leaves plenty of visitors a little stunned as many people expect the eagles to be statues before they begin to move around and look right back at the visitors. The sheer size of the birds also catches the eye of most on lookers.

“What’s unique is there is no physical barrier,” Hahne said. “It’s just open air space and I think that heightens the experience for visitors.”

The NEC opened in Wabasha in 1999 in a much smaller location on Main Street, which is now the chocolate

by

Eric Johnson

store The Chocolate Escape. It moved to its current location in 2007, a grand structure perched over the Mississippi River. That placement gives visitors the opportunity to see the eagles in their natural habitat.

The eagles can be observed hunting over the waters or perched in a tree, sometimes as many as five or more at a time.

Visitors will even get to witness the eagles shrieking a territorial scream at eagles passing by out of the backdrop of a large window that overlooks the river. There are several of visible wild eagles flying around, especially in the winter as the birds migrate to the open river water.

“Winter is the time to come to see wild bald eagles,” Hahne said. “They have access to fish and there are no leaves in the trees so you can see them much better than in the summer.”

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 53

A replica eagle nest inside the National Eagle Center also contains a picture progression of the early life of young eagles starting at the egg stage.

54 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

National Eagle Center handler Anna Christenson and Angel listen to a question during a demonstration at the center in Wabasha.

Visitors to the National Eagle Center watch for the iconic raptors from inside the confines of the center thanks to two walls entirely composed of glass.

The NEC draws approximately 80,000 visitors annually and has drawn guests from approximately 120 countries. Many come from far away to see the birds as North America is the only continent that supports the bald eagle.

The center offers plenty of chances to see and learn about the bald eagles, and the large observatory window and walking path along the river behind the center allows visitors to watch eagles fly and hunt.

“We see eagles outside every single day,” Hahne said. “Being on the river where we are is a huge part of the experience of coming here.

You can go to the window and look out and see it in real time.”

For those looking to do more than just observe eagles, NEC also provides a 45-minute program for guests and school classes that teaches about the life of eagles and how the species avoided extinction after the DDT scare in the 1970s. The program features a live feeding of an eagle and there is also a naturalist who answers questions by the exhibit with the eagles.

Hahne said you could spend as much as two hours in the center as there is much to learn about the feathered symbol of freedom.

“It’s really driven by the visitor and how much you want to take away from the visit,” Hahne said. “If you want to come in briefly, take a look at the eagles and be on your way, that’s perfectly fine. But if you want to dive deep into the world of eagles or the refuge of the Mississippi River you can do that to.”

While visitors come to the NEC year-round, Hahne said a great time to check out the center would be in March, when the Annual Soar with the Eagles festival takes place. The festival features a presenter on each weekend of the month in an auditorium located near the NEC in Wabsha. Those presentations show different kind of birds and raptors and they include bird fly-overs within the auditorium.

Below: The National Eagle Center wants to make sure everybody visiting gets a chance to see the eagles outside in the natural world. Throughout the center are telescopes pointed out through the glass that give visitors opportunities to view the eagles up close.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 55

Far across the Mississippi River, a bald eagle can be seen plucking a fish from the frigid waters. Aside from the eagles that can be visited inside the National Eagle Center, people almost every day can see eagles in their natural habitat.

All of the eagles at the NEC are permanently injured in some way and all of them have had about a year of training to grow accustomed to being around people. While, the eagles may screech out the window at other birds, they won’t bother with the visitors at the NEC. “They don’t want to share [with other birds]. They’re not social birds by nature,” Hahne said. “They’re calm with us in their space and we’re not a threat to them. They’re very calm around people and they know we’re not going to try to take their food away.”

The center is open year round from 10 a.m to 5 p.m. every day. The cost per visit is $10 for adults, $9 for veterans, $7 for youths ages 4-17 and free for children three and younger.

The NEC is a privately funded non-profit, so it relies on guests and members to keep the doors open. For more information, visit nationaleagleceter.org.

A dome on the second floor allows visitors to see taxidermied raptors as if they were flying right above their heads.

56 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

One of the National Eagle Center’s five residents watches the world go by from inside the center. Every so often, the raptors can be heard screeching, warning the eagles outside to stay away from its territory.

Five things to do while you’re in the area Lark Toys

Lark Toys features a variety of original pull toys, hand carved carousel, mini-golf, games, a cafe and a toy museum. It is located at 63604 170th Ave. in Kellogg.

Reads Landing Brewing Co.

The new pub features hand crafted beers and menu items. It is located at 70555 202nd street, in Reads Landing.

Slippery’s Bar and Restaurant Famous for its role in the film “Grumpy Old Men,” Slippery’s is a family fun spot on the river with plenty of dining available.

It is located at 116 Main St. E. in Wabasha.

The Chocolate Escape

Featuring a 70-foot mural wall detailing the origins of chocolate, you can get your sweet tooth filled at the Chocolate Escape. It is located at 152 W. Main St. in Wabasha.

The Olde Triangle Pub

If you want a pub with an Irish twist, check out The Olde Triangle Pub for an ale or lager. It is located at 219 W. Main St. in Wabasha.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 57

LOOKING BACK

Power to the People

The Water and Light Plant under construction for an addition — possibly June 1927 when the building was doubled in size to make room for new equipment.

The early history of the Austin Power and Light Plant

By Jaimie Timm, Mower County Historical Society • All

photos courtesy of the

Mower County Historical Society

In 1899, the Austin Electric Company requested a twoThe Austin Village Council bought the first kerosene year contract with the city to continue providing electricity. street lights in 1880 for $90 from the Cass Lamp Company in Instead, the council decided to purchase machinery for its Chicago. Mayor H. B. Ball and Alderman Harlan Page deterown light plant after a disagreement over rates and the Austin mined the location for each light.

Electric Company was informed its electricity would no longer In early November 1888, the Austin City Council granted be needed after the end of a franchise to the Pierce October 1899.

Brothers for electricity in Jack Cassidy and Ernie Schradle drive The city of Austin Austin and the first electric the plant’s first motorized track in 1915. purchased the Austin light ordinance was passed Electric Company’s plant giving them the right to for $16,000 on April erect poles on streets at “reg10, 1900. Shortly after, ulate rates.”

William Todd was elected Presumably, the Pierce superintendent of the newBrothers began providing ly-consolidated water and electric service to residential light plants to create a puband commercial customers lic utility. around December 1888.

In late 1902, Judge W. S. Pierce, now genKingsley named a board to eral manager of the Austin work on revising the city’s Electric Company (forcharter to separate the mumerly known as the Pierce nicipal plant from the City Council. The charter was revised Brothers) offered to provide electric street lights for Austin on March 10, 1903. during the council meeting on Sept. 18, 1893. On Nov. 13, Mayor C. F. Cooke named the first five members of the the council gave the Austin Electric Company permission to Board of Water and Light: S. D. Catherwood, J. D. Sheedy, “light up” when ready. The city stopped using kerosene street Alexander S. Campbell, George A. Hormel and J. L. Gulden. lights on Dec. 1 of that year.

58 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

Removing the light poles from downtown Austin in October or November 1924. The project began several years before but was interrupted by World War I. When it resumed, power lines were buried as the streets were paved and new lights were installed.

Right: The newspaper article from Nov. 11, 1924 explains the celebration held when the new system went live.

Below: The interior of the Austin Municipal Play in April 1930.

Pictured are Jane Todd, from left, Mabel Evenson, Marie Streeter and Evelyn Hummel.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 59

As the snow melts, get out and enjoy these events.

All dates, times, and locations subject to change.

March 16-18

44th Annual Austin Home and Vacation Show

Feb. 28-March 4

When: 3-8 p.m. March 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 17, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 18 Where: Packer Arena Annual expo featuring many vendors offering a variety of products and services of interest to homeowners and travelers. Interested vendors should contact Power 96/ KQPR at 507-373-9600.

“The Austin Immigration Project”

When: 7 p.m. (Feb. 28-March 3), 2 p.m. (March 4) Where: Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College In a first for Riverland Theatre, students, faculty, and community members work together to create a new play that addresses the topic of immigration in our local community. Through the lens of theatre, explore the stories, cultures, and experiences of the people from around the globe who now call Austin, Minnesota, home. All members of the community are welcome to participate in this unique and personal theatre project. For more information, call 507-433-0595.

March 17-18

Northwestern Singers present Celtic Fantasy When: 7-9:30 p.m. March 17; 2 p.m. March 18 Where: Historic Paramount Theatre Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a weekend of music from the Emerald Isle — Ireland. For more information, Call 507-434-0934.

April 6

Banjo Hour with Captain Gravitone & The String Theory Orchestra

March 2

Second Floor Gallery Opening Cedar Valley Services and Youth Show

When: 5-7 p.m.

Where: Austin ArtWorks Center Gallery opening celebrating the work of artists from Cedar Valley Services and Austin youth. Free and open to the public. Show will run through April 14.

For more information, call 507-434-0934.

60 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

When: 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Historic Paramount Theatre This vaudeville-style show is an adventurous mix of magic, comedy to the stylings of Captain Gravitone, a superhero of the new millennia. $15 in advance, $20 at the door. For more information, call 507-434-0934.

April 12

Austin Artist Series - Cahal Dunne

When: 7-9 p.m.

Where: Knowlton Auditorium, Austin High School Presented by the Austin Artist Series, providing the Austin community with 72 years of quality music programs.

April 13-18

Hormel Historic Home

When: April 13-15; Caboose Retreat: April 16, 17 and 18 Where: Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center Fun-filled days of quilting with friends. Free demos, massage therapists, Holiday Inn special room rates for one to four people, four meals included with price, show and tell, door prizes, games and demos. For more information, call 507-377-1163.

• March 2: Autism Teen Night, 6 p.m.

• March 12: History Happy Hour - Austin’s Theatre History with

Randy Forster, 5:30 p.m.

• March 16: ASD Respite Night, 6 p.m.

• March 17: Kids’ Music in Motion, 10-11:30 a.m.

• March 20: Hearth and Home - Intro to Positive Social Media with Amanda Barber, 10 a.m.

• April 6: Autism Teen Night, 6 p.m.

• April 9: History Happy Hour - Billy Sunday, From Baseball to Crusades with Craig Bishop, 5:30 p.m.

• April 17: Hearth and Home - Austin High History Part 2 with

Wendy Larson, 10 a.m.

• April 20: ASD Respite Night, 6 p.m.

• April 22: Stepping Out for Autism Walk, 1-3 p.m

Calico Hutch Quilting Retreat - Stashe Bash

April 13-15

Matchbox Children’s Theatre: Charlie & The Chocolate Factory

When: 7 p.m. April 13 and 14; 2 p.m. April 2.

Where: Historic Paramount Theatre Witness the whimsical fantasy based on the novel of the same name and featured in motion picture adaptations “Charlie & The Chocolate Factory” and “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.” $10 for adults, $6 for students. For more information, call 507-434-0934.

For more information, call 507-433-4243.

Events at the Paramount For more information, call 507-434-0934.

• March 3: Harris Piano Competition, 4 p.m., free.

• April 22: Forte Milers, 3 p.m., $12 in advance, $15 at the door,

$5 for students • April 27: Ozark Jubilee, 2 p.m., $25 in advance, $30 at the door

Movie Night at the Paramount Held every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $5; no advance ticket sales.

For more information, call 507-434-0934.

April 19-21, 26-29 “Avenue Q”

When: 7-9:30 p.m. (2-4:30 p.m. on the 29th) Where: Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College It’s a story of a recent college grad who moves into a New York apartment on Avenue Q. He and his new friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and the elusive purpose in life. Filled with humor and a catchy score, where puppets are friends, monsters are good, and life lessons are learned. Rated R for adult humor and situations. Tickets available at www.riverland.edu/theatre. For more information, call 507-433-0595.

April 23

Austin Artist Series - Derik Nelson and Family

When: 7-9 p.m.

Where: Knowlton Auditorium, Austin High School Presented by the Austin Artist Series, providing the Austin community with 72 years of quality music programs.

April 28

Clean Up Day

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mower County Historical Society Volunteers are needed to help with this annual “spring cleaning” on the grounds and buildings. For more information or to volunteer, call 507-437-6082.

• March 7: “A Farewell to Arms” • March 14: “12 Angry Men” • March 21: “Labyrinth” • March 28: “Raiders of the Lost Ark” • April 4: “The Third Man” • April 11: “The Stranger” • April 18: “Dr. Strangelove” • April 25: “Apocalypse Now”

Austin Bruins Home Schedule Go, Bruins! All games begin at 7:05 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) at Riverside Arena. Gates open one hour prior.

For more information, call 507-434-4978.

• March 9-10: vs. Brookings Blizzard • March 23: vs. Minnesota Magicians • April 6-7: vs. Bismarck Bobcats

First Thursday Events Events held each Thursday at your favorite museum dedicated to Spam.

For more information, call 507-434-6401 • March 1: National Pig Day. Celebrate National Pig Day at the Spam Museum - crafts, food, and more.

• April 5: Autism Awareness Class. Come build your own calming jar and support our autistic community members.

March–April 2018 | Austin Living | 61

BOOK REVIEW

COMPLICATED DEEDS FIRST-TIME AUTHOR TELLS A TALE OF POWER, LOSS, THE PRICE OF THE AMERICAN DREAM AND RICE

By Nancy C. Stover, Austin Page Turners When the reader first meets John White, better known as JW, in the Shawn Otto novel “Sins of our Fathers,” they find a white, driven, successful banker whose job it is to teach other bankers how to legally refuse to loan money to Native Americans who live on the Iron Range in northern Minnesota.

He is very good with his words and drives home the unfortunate repressive ideas that certainly profit and feed the greed of the white banking establishment.

JW appears to have it all, but Otto, a first-time author, soon exposes how misleading that facade is. JW, in reality, is a flawed man caught up in a resolute gambling addiction that leads to a desperate embezzlement scheme that threatens his career, his marriage and leads to an unholy agreement with his boss that will try his very soul.

The loss of his teenage son leads JW down a path to gambling and when his embezzlement activities are discovered by his boss, JW is offered a morally corrupt chance at redemption: sabotage a competing native banker, Johnny Eagle.

Eagle is a single father who has recently returned to the reservation with a plan to open a bank that will fairly serve the Native American community. JW agrees to move into a trailer on the property that will allow him to monitor Eagles comings and goings and will offer him the opportunity to search for details about the planned Native American business.

JW is drawn into helping Jacob, Johnny’s troubled teenage son, by schooling him in the care of his horse, Pride. The unexpected

62 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

bond with Jacob grows and JW slowly begins to question if he can ruin Eagle and his dreams of helping the Native American circle of family.

Otto’s characters are real, driven and complicated and the insight into their strengths and flaws make them dynamic pawns in this story of crime against Native Americans. JW is truly troubled.

He makes half-hearted attempts to beat his gambling addiction with hit-and-miss visits to Gamblers Anonymous and unsuccessfully searches for a way to reconnect with his wife and daughter.

I tried to dislike JW but found it very difficult to do and in the end came away with a profound respect for this flawed human being.

Now onto wild rice. Being a fairly new resident of Minnesota, I had little appreciation of the role that wild rice played in the Native American culture. The novel describes the time that JW spends with Johnny Eagle and his Native American friends and co-workers in the harvesting of Shawn the precious crop. The Otto accounts are detailed, moving and uplifting.

The novel is a story of small town banking, gambling, corruption and again redemption. I enjoyed the details about banking, wild rice harvest production, and have gained a budding understanding about the problems that often result from the complicated laws that result from either trying to protect or possibly destroy the rights of Indians.

As complicated as is the book, the ending is as complicated.

JW’s misdeeds are fraught with consequences for him, Johnny Eagle and Jacob, but the more important thing is the men overcoming racism and learning to respect one another. Give “Sins of Our Fathers” a try.

WHY I LOVE AUSTIN

A story of us Our community is a real page-turner

A

By Lisa Deyo • Photo

ustin is like reading a good book. I’m just a little into books, you see. Not just the stacks of books beside my bed, creating a little walled fortress of delightful colors and titles. Not just the thousands of novels, textbooks, and picture books that surround my class of fourth-graders at Southgate Elementary School. Not just the walls and nooks and piles of books that fill my favorite bookstore in the world.

Oh my, I own that bookstore, Sweet Reads Books and Candy.

I still find that fact unbelievable! I am now surrounded by new friends who are the authors of outstanding books that swell my heart with pride.

I’m just a little into books and stories. That’s why I love Austin!

I love the CHARACTERS of Austin. Having been a part of the school system, church, and theater for so very many years, I have quite a wide array of characters in my life. The teachers I had as a student continue to be my guides, but now as friends. As they continue to cheer on our sports teams, applaud our music programs, and assist in community clubs and organizations. The characters (and I do use that term kindly) of my church and theater life have grown and changed, as all good story characters do. I truly miss the giants of my church and theater — Don, Frieda, Bo, Frank, and Steve. Thankfully, I can also see the future protagonists of Austin emerging, as I watch students play music more beautifully than ever, teens set sports records, 11-year-old authors publish stories. I know they will 64 | Austin Living | March–April 2018

by

Eric Johnson

face challenges, leave Austin, but return as adults to brag about the escapades of their youth, or raise their own families, or care for parents. The characters of Austin do that. I know, because I hear their stories, I cry with them, laugh with them. Every character here in Austin that I have met has a story.

I love the SETTING of Austin. I love the immense palette of colors in the sky every morning and evening. I love the massive amount of green in the spring and the white in the winter that surrounds me. Living on the edge of Austin gives me privileges like that. Hiking the trails of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center or walking downtown after a late rain creates more beautiful settings. Do I wish for mountains and oceans as settings? Of course, but that’s why I vacation — I appreciate them greatly and then return to my skies and fields here in Austin.

I love the PLOT of Austin. Hmm … plots are the series of events that keep a reader’s interest piqued. Yes, plots involve problems. Yes, plots also involve solutions or resolutions.

Austin, like every community, rolls with common series of events and challenges. We, the characters, keep the plot rolling.

We work as neighbors to resolve problems, actively participate in organizations and committees, give support to local businesses and events. I challenge the characters here to be part of the story. Characters that make the changes. Characters that help keep the good things going.

Interesting characters, a great setting, all kinds of plot twists and possibilities. Just like a good story … the story of Austin.