The Woman Today April/May 2019

Meg Thoreson

More than hammers and bolts

Hardware store becomes community pillar

• New times at the Kitchi Gammi Club

• Advocacy after surviving colon cancer

• Costuming UMD theater for 40 years

WOMAN the today

PROFILES

10 Anna Dahlgren

Pursuing advocacy after cancer diagnosis

30 Patricia Dennis

Costume designer retires after 40 years at UMD

FEATURES

6 Old club, new times

Women's roles have changed at Kitchi Gammi Club since its start in 1883

BUILDERS ISSUE

14 What's old is new

There's a lot to show off at new Redstone Lofts

20 More than hammers and bolts

Meg Thoreson becomes a community pillar

ENTERTAINMENT/ARTS

50 Arts and Events Calendar

72 Socials

Dinner at the Coppertop, Chamber of Commerce dinner, American association of University Women, League of Women Voters

HEALTH/MEDICINE

40 St. Luke's

Finding success at St. Luke's Proctor Fitness Center

28 Essentia

Teamwork and expertise mend woman's heart

FINANCE

42 Make a financial plan— the secret of your success

LEGAL

38 Reducing divorce stress through early neutral evaluation

WEDDINGS/FASHION

48 Where to Shop

46 Weddings

FOOD/NUTRITION

70 Sicilian pork tenderloin is a one-pan delight

HOME TOUCHES

54 Lake home looks like Italian Villa

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GRAPHIC

In this issue of The Woman Today, you’ll meet pioneers, rule breakers and advocates. Patricia Dennis, a longtime figure in the University of Minnesota Duluth’s theater department who has been a professor, a dean, the head of the department and a costume designer, will retire at the end of the school year. Andrea Busche writes about the Southernmannered woman’s legacy as an educator. A young woman’s colon cancer diagnosis has her pushing colonoscopies, and another offers support for builders and contractors through the Arrowhead Builders Association. Thirty-nine years ago, Cheryl Meese broke all the rules at the Kitchi Gammi Club. But times have changed for women at the private club. Dig in, readers, and be inspired.

Old club, new times

WOMEN’S ROLES HAVE CHANGED AT Kitchi

Gammi Club

SINCE ITS START IN 1883

By Andrea Busche

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

The 40-member staff at Duluth's Kitchi Gammi Club includes general manager Leanne Joynes (left) and marketing director Katy Rochel. They're pictured in the front hallway of the storied club.

Duluth’s Kitchi Gammi Club is one-of-a-kind, a fine venue for members to dine and gather, but also a place where plenty of work gets done.

Is it a civic club? A social institution? A professional organization? As it turns out, it’s all this and more.

“I would call it a business club,” said Leanne Joynes, the club’s general manager. “We are busiest during the week when we are hosting business

meetings and conferences,” she said. “Lots of deals have been done here.”

The “Kitch,” as it is known to locals, has come a long way regarding its membership protocol for women. Similar to many other clubs of its day, it was originally only for men. At one time, women had to enter through a separate doorway, were required to wear skirts or dresses and could dine

Continued on page 8

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only in one particular room in the clubhouse. Today, however, women are welcomed as guests and members. In 1985, Dale Lewis became the club’s first female member, Joynes said.

Duluthian and longtime club member Cheryl Meese shared a story about her first experience at the Kitch. Today Meese is a senior vice president and financial adviser at RBC Wealth Management in Duluth. But on that day 39 years ago, she was joined by her future boss, who, it turned out, was a strong advocate for gender equality. He also had a bold sense of humor.

“In 1980, I flew to Duluth for a job interview with Peter Sneve, the head of Paine Webber,” Meese said. “The interview went well, and Sneve invited me to join him for lunch at the Kitch. We were headed toward the side door, which was the door reserved for women, and Sneve said, ‘No, let’s go around to the front.’ In hindsight, the staff were a bit startled to see me come in through the front door.

“When we came in, the staff offered to seat us in a room off to the side, which was accommodating to women. Sneve said, ‘No thank you; we’ll sit in the Great Hall.’”

“After lunch, we walked out, again using the front door, and Sneve told

me, ‘You just broke every rule in the book.’ He said that women just don’t do that; they go in through the side door, and they don’t eat in the Great Hall. He had a wicked wit and was willing to be challenged on a whole lot of things. He made a huge difference in this town.”

Between 1980 and 1992, several things changed at the Kitch. Women were welcomed to enter through the main door, dine anywhere in the clubhouse, and become members.

“I became a member in 1992,” Meese said. “And I am the main member in my family; my husband is the spouse on our account.”

Joynes, who was hired in February 2018, is the first woman to hold the general manager title. She has a background in the hospitality industry and has served on many local boards. “It’s an honor to be the first female general manager,” Joynes said. “It means the club has evolved to a higher level, and this is an opportunity to move it forward even more.”

A long history

The Kitch is housed in a highly recognizable landmark building and has featured generations of “movers and shakers” on its membership roster. As a private club, much of what happens

there is held close to the vest, privy only to club members. There is a lot to explore regarding the history of the club, its purpose in the community, and its ongoing evolution.

According to its website, the Kitchi Gammi Club is the oldest incorporated club in Minnesota. It has been serving Duluth and the surrounding area since its formation on Oct. 1, 1883. Some of the families affiliated with the Kitch since its earliest days include the Hartleys, McGifferts and Congdons.

Its massive clubhouse, a Jacobean Revival-esque structure constructed of brick and stone, stands resolutely overlooking Lake Superior just east of the Fitger’s complex. Many tourists and residents alike no doubt have craned their necks while passing the Kitch, wondering if it was a private home, a hotel, or perhaps even a restaurant.

The club was originally housed on the fourth floor of Duluth’s Grand Opera House, its current location at 831 E. Superior St. was selected because of its convenient placement on Superior Street and an unobstructed view of the lake. Bertram Goodhue of the New York architectural firm Cram, Goodhue and Ferguson designed the clubhouse, which opened its doors to members in 1914. The building was listed on the National

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Register of Historic Places in 1975.

The structure is uniquely recognizable due to its steeply pitched roofs, round, arched doorways and triangular gables rising over the roofline. It’s a natural choice for weddings; in the summertime, happy newlyweds and their parties can often be seen celebrating on the vast front patio. In 2018, 14 weddings were held at the Kitch; 14 more are planned in 2019.

“We have 20 rooms to be used for meetings, breakfasts, special events, parties, and weddings,” said events manager Sarah Hartley.

The club employs 40 people, including an executive chef, a marketing and membership manager, maintenance manager, guest services manager, housekeeping manager, as well as servers, bartenders, line cooks, dishwashers, housekeepers and associates.

“We offer a very high level of service,” Hartley said. “Our servers and bartenders are trained in the traditional

classic service style, where they use table crumbers and finger bowls. We use fine table linens and dishware, and decorate for all special events. We even serve a Chateaubriand that is flamed and carved table-side.”

Hartley’s own connection to the Kitch has deep, familial roots beyond that of simply being an employee. She is married to Eric Hartley, who is the great-great-grandson of one of the original founders of the club.

Today, the club has about 400 members and hosts plenty of familyfriendly events for its members, including a viewing party for the Christmas City of the North Parade. Contrary to popular belief, today’s dress code at the Kitch is considered “business casual.” For men, a coat and tie are required only in the Great Hall, and rules can be suspended for events such as the club’s lobsterfest.

Kitch members enjoy a club reciprocity agreement with Duluthbased Ridgeview and Northland

Country Clubs. There are also “partner” clubs across the U.S. and globe, which members can use while traveling. New members must be sponsored and receive two recommendation letters from current members. Dues and initiation fees also apply.

Duluth’s Kitchi Gammi Club is a longstanding place for its members to socialize, conduct business, enjoy fine dining and more. Plenty of future events loom on the horizon, including jazz on Saturday afternoons, renovations and expansions to their guest suites and meeting areas, and the planned return of the old English garden.

For more information, please visit kitchigammiclub.com. D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer and frequent contributor to The Woman Today.

By Andrea Busche

Pursuing advocacy after cancer diagnosis

life and death. Anna Dahlgren would know. This medical professional and mom experienced just one minor incident, resulting in a shocking diagnosis of colon cancer at just 33 years old. There was no history of the disease in her family. Her single symptom would have been easy to ignore, or at least put off reporting for a while, but Dahlgren had enough selfawareness to know in her heart that something wasn’t right. Her life was saved due to an early diagnosis, and she is now passionate about advocating for the cause.

Just one symptom, just one time

~ Anna Dahlgren ~

Discussing a change in one’s bowel habits is far from what most would consider to be polite repartee. But it definitely isn’t something to keep to yourself. No matter your age, any bowel changes should be taken seriously and promptly reported to your doctor. It could truly be a matter of

Dahlgren, who was born and raised in Duluth, was breezing through life. With a great job doing medical lab work, a young son, Isaac, and a loving partner by her side, life was good. Her world was rocked in June 2014 when she noticed something out of the ordinary.

“It was a Thursday,” Dahlgren said, “And I was at work. I noticed

a bit of blood in my stool. Being a lab tech, I knew it wasn’t normal, so I asked a resident what her thoughts were. She said ‘see me on Monday.’”

Initially, the doctor thought it could be a hemorrhoid or inflammatory bowel disease. “Cancer was the last thing we thought it would be,” Dahlgren said. “I had no family history of the disease, and I was only 33. And, I had had only the one instance of blood in my stool.”

A colonoscopy was promptly ordered. Dahlgren was initially hesitant due to her young age, but she ultimately agreed.

During the colonoscopy, a large polyp was discovered and removed, which was ultimately diagnosed as cancerous. Dahlgren later underwent a surgical procedure where 18 inches of her large intestine, along with 20 lymph nodes, were removed as a precaution. The cancer had not spread to any of the lymph nodes and was contained within the polyp.

Her cancer was diagnosed at stage 1, and thus, chemotherapy and radiation were not required. And, the sections of Dahlgren’s intestine were able to be successfully reconnected, so an ostomy bag was not required.

Genetic testing was done on the polyp, and a genomic blood profile was also completed. Both were negative for any hereditary components that could have caused her cancer. It was a completely random occurrence.

There are theories that eating red meat, or a lack of fiber in the diet can contribute to colon cancer. Some doctors think the causes may be due to environmental factors. But ultimately, there are no firm answers. “I wish there was one thing to tell people to do or not do in order to prevent it, but cancer doesn’t care who you are,” Dahlgren said.

Encouraging others

After Dahlgren’s diagnosis, she

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

began telling everyone she knew about her experience. As a result of her open and honest advocacy, in person and on social media, other lives have no doubt been saved.

Her entire family went in for colonoscopies. Her younger sister also had a polyp removed, which was precancerous, according to doctors. And a high school classmate and Facebook friend shared this very personal story with Dahlgren:

"My brother was feeling sick, and no doctor would run tests. They said, ‘take it easy and if you still don't feel good, come back.’ I saw something on your Facebook page about getting a colonoscopy, and told my brother he should ask for this. He felt crummy a couple more days, and then started having pains in his stomach. He went to the ER, and they ordered a few tests, but still no colonoscopy. After those tests and a day or two in hospital, they finally they checked the colon. They

Continued on page 12

found a mass three days later. It was cancerous, but it had not spread. It was all removed so he was diagnosed at stage 1. They told him if he has siblings to make sure they get tested. He is doing well — he has another month off of work, then a check-up to make sure he is strong enough to go back. Thanks for being an advocate.”

Dahlgren’s son, Isaac, will be required to begin receiving colonoscopies as a preventative measure when he is just 23. That is 10 years younger than his mom’s age when she was diagnosed.

Advocacy

As a result of her experience, Dahlgren has become a dedicated advocate for early colon cancer detection. She joined forces with the Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC) in Edina, Minn., a nonprofit organization with a focus on screening for the disease. CCC will help pay for colonoscopies for those who can’t afford the lifesaving test.

She also serves on the Board for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, out of Washington, D.C. The group recently advanced their “never too young” initiative, which resulted in the reduction of the age of a person’s first recommended colonoscopy from age 50 to age 45; but of course, younger if

any symptoms arise.

Locally, Dahlgren teamed up with Bent Paddle Brewing to host a fundraiser and awareness event on March 27. She is also partnering with the Duluth Huskies and St. Luke’s for a baseball game on July 26 to feature plenty of colon cancer awareness activities. And, of course she continues getting the word out to everyone she knows.

In her personal life, Dahlgren continues getting routine colonoscopies — at first it was every year, but now that she is five years out from her diagnosis, every three years. She keeps an eye on what she eats, and tries to get more exercise. But life has also taught her to relax.

“I used to stress about perfection, but I don’t care about perfection anymore,” she said. “I’ll leave my house a mess if my son wants to snuggle. And, I try to make more time for fun hobbies such as scrapbooking and reading. My diagnosis has changed my life for the better.”

Talk about it

Bowel habits are a very private and often embarrassing thing to discuss, even with a doctor. “It’s such a taboo subject. People don’t want to talk about their stool,” Dahlgren said.

But sometimes we simply have no

choice but to put our embarrassment aside. If something is amiss with your bowel habits, please have a conversation with your doctor, Dahlgren said. Early detection can save your life.

“Pay attention to your body. You know what is normal for you. And blood in your stool is never normal,” Dahlgren said.

“If your doctor dismisses your concern or says you’re fine because of your age, find another doctor. My chance of a normal life span after colon cancer is almost 100 percent. I’m so lucky that my cancer was discovered at a stage 1. I know that a cancer diagnosis is hard to hear, but I am proof that when diagnosed early, it is a lot easier to overcome.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer and frequent contributor to The Woman Today.

Anna Dahlgren welcomes questions about colon cancer prevention and screening. Please contact her at adahlgren31@gmail.com. Common symptoms of colon cancer and other information about the disease can be found at coloncancercoalition.org.

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New life for historic building

Redstone Lofts Duluth unveiled in Traphagen House

By Kathleen Murphy

One could be forgiven for having doubts as to the future of the Traphagen House.

The stately redstone mansion has been a fixture at 1509-11 E. Superior St. since 1892, but it has seen some difficult years lately, boarded up, damaged and vacant.

Those difficult days appear to be over. In 2016, the house was purchased by Dean Jablonsky, a developer from Minneapolis. “I love to take historical properties and reconstruct them for the modern

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Mike Schraepfer, president of Heirloom Property Management, stands inside a renovated kitchen at Redstone Lofts Duluth.

era,” he said. After a long and detailed renovation process, the house is once again ready for new tenants. Renamed the Redstone Lofts Duluth, the house has 11 modern luxury residential lofts, as well as one main floor commercial suite.

The house was originally built by Oliver G. Traphagen, one of early Duluth’s most well-known architects. When Traphagen moved his family to Hawaii, the house was purchased by Chester and Clara Congdon. They resided in the Traphagen House for over a decade while the Congdon mansion was under construction. The Congdons converted the Traphagen House — which had originally been built as a duplex — into a nine-unit apartment building.

The Congdon estate retained ownership of the house for many years, but it eventually traded hands. Often. The house spent several decades flipping between owners, eventually falling into disrepair.

“It was a tremendously charming house,” said Kim Hileman, a lifelong Duluthian who lived in a second floor apartment of the Traphagen House in 1984. “It smacked of history and a more genteel time.” She loved the unique round windows and the ornate woodwork found all over the house, but when her bedroom ceiling fell in one day, she decided it was time to move.

Conditions might have deteriorated even further, were it not for local businessman Howard Klatsky, who purchased the building in 1986. He moved his marketing firm into the main floor and spent the next few decades renovating the house. Klatsky retired in 2012 and the business, which he sold to a colleague, relocated to Canal Park. “I was thrilled when Klatsky reclaimed the building,” Hileman said. “He did so much work

Continued on page 16

to it. Which made all the terrible events that happened over the past few years all the more disappointing.”

In August of 2014, a fire started on the first floor and quickly spread throughout the house, causing extensive damage. The cause was determined as arson. Later that year, Klatsky experienced another setback when the vacant house was burglarized. The fate of the Traphagen House was in serious question. The word “demolition” was even used, albeit reluctantly.

“The house turned out to be structurally sound,” said Jablonsky, who has restored other properties in Duluth and Minneapolis. “It was definitely worth saving.” In February of 2019, the house was ready to show the public.

Though most of the original woodwork was destroyed in the fire, the house still boasts plenty of original materials, all presented in a modern style. Brick walls grace every unit, with the original redstone and bluestone walls displayed like artwork in the ground floor units.

Continued on page 18

All of the windows in the house are framed using brick taken from other areas of the house. “Most of these bricks haven’t seen the light of day in over 125 years,” Jablonsky said. A mason worked on the brickwork throughout the house for over 18 months.

Reclaimed wood from other areas of the house also features prominently. The most obvious use of this is in the central staircase and railings. “It took over two months to get this staircase built,” Jablonsky said. “But it looks outstanding, and I love that we were able to build it from reclaimed materials from the house.” Wooden shelves are a centerpiece of every kitchen. Jablonsky was proud that they were able to

salvage and use almost every material the house had to offer.

While retaining the character of the house was of main importance, a close runner-up was creating a modern, luxury feel. “We could have just sheetrocked everything,” Jablonsky said. “It would have been cheaper, frankly.” But he knew this house was important in Duluth history, and he wanted the beauty to last.

Functionality was important as well. The basement units have heated floors to beat back the Minnesota cold, and pains were taken to ensure the ground floor units remain dry. Soundproofing was taken into consideration. “The number one complaint about apartment living is the noise,” Jablonsky said. To that end, several layers of soundproofing exist between floors, including acoustical channels between the ceiling and rafters. “No one should be able to hear a thing between apartments.”

All of the front-of-house units boast that famous Duluth view, with several units also having access to a private patio. “We’re hoping to still install a rooftop patio off one of the back units,” said Jablonsky. “I’m really excited to see if we can make that happen.”

Contact Heirloom Property Management to inquire as to availability. They can be reached at (218) 390-4317 or www.

RentWithHeirloom.com. The commercial space is leasing for $595 per month, the lofts ranging from $895 to $1,995 per month. Most of the lofts are one bedroom apartments, but three have two bedrooms. D

Kathleen Murphy is a writer who lives and writes in Duluth.

Hardware store is more than hammers and bolts

MEG THORESON

ADDED A SMALL BUSINESS TO HER WORK LIFE AND BECAME A COMMUNITY PILLAR

By Mark Nicklawske

Thoreson knew little about hammers, power saws or house paint and had never been inside Solon Springs Hardware when she and her husband, Ken, considered buying the small town Wisconsin business in 2001.

Meg

In fact, Thoreson was working as a sales manager for a major telecommunication company and traveling all over the country. She had a nice position, good benefits and Cellular One was a big player in a fast growing industry.

And Ken was busy too. He worked

construction and spent a lot of time on jobs in the Hayward area.

But the couple was looking for something more.

“We spent a lot of time apart due to our jobs,” she said. “So we took a look at the hardware store that was for sale and really thought there was a lot of potential there.”

Thoreson, a former director at the Entrepreneur Fund in downtown Duluth now running her own consulting firm, reflected on how she and her husband purchased a small business to strengthen their relationship and serve a small town cabin community.

“In northern Minnesota or northern Wisconsin, owning a bar or restaurant is pretty typical but neither of us had that attraction,” she said. Instead of hospitality, the Thoresons chose

Continued on page 22

hardware.

The couple had some experience in retail sales and, as a contractor, Ken was familiar with building materials and tools. They put together a business plan, met with suppliers and talked to other people in the hardware world.

“We really found out that a hardware store is kind of a reflection of the community,” she said. “So while there are things that are the same in all stores, like tools and nuts and bolts, there’s also a lot of things you can bring into a hardware store that helps serve the community.”

The Thoresons decided to buy the store and make the place an important and relevant hub for Solon Springs residents and its many vacation visitors.

Located about 32 miles south of Superior, Solon Springs Hardware occupied a 5,000-square-foot building near the railroad tracks downtown. It had three employees. Upper St. Croix Lake, surrounded by shorefront homes and seasonal cabins, was just a five-minute walk away. The store had been a community fixture since the early 20th Century but changes in the retail industry, like the Internet and big box chains, were a growing threat.

“In 2002 we still were in the early stages of Internet retailing and so the store definitely had to be relevant in the community and that’s become even more important today,” said Thoreson.

At first, Ken dedicated himself full time to managing the store and overseeing needed property improvements. One year later Thoreson left Cellular One to join the Solon Springs team. The couple had realized a dream and started working side by side, between the aisles and behind the cash register.

Then tragedy struck.

In 2004, an early morning electrical fire burned the store to the ground. An engineer on a passing train reported the blaze and by the time firefighters arrived all was lost. The Thoresons were properly insured but they had to make a decision.

“We both attribute (the business plan) to the tool that helped us hit the ground running,” said Thoreson. “That helped us decide: Were we going to go big, or were we going to go home?”

The Thoresons went big.

Nine months later, Solon Springs Hardware store was reborn as Solon Springs Mercantile. A new 18,000-square-foot building was constructed on the four-lane highway bypass west of downtown. The store was filled with much more than hardware. The Thoresons added sporting goods, power equipment, clothing, liquor, gardening, and a gift shop and now employed 17 people.

“We’re 15 to 30 miles from stores that carry those products,” said Thoreson. Solon Springs Mercantile thrives because it is convenient and sells what northwoods cabin owners, hunters, anglers and small town families need. “Our mission is there to save them time.” she said.

A coffee shop didn’t work but the Thoresons plan to add a greenhouse to the property soon.

“There’s different things we’ve tried and we continue to try over time,” she said.

Continued on page 24

“I get a lot of energy from just seeing businesses succeed.”

“We spend a lot of time at buying markets, looking at new trends, looking at what happens in other markets. We try to just find the best merchandise and the best services we can provide for our customers.”

Thoreson grew up in the Stillwater area and moved north for school at the College of St.

Scholastica before settling in northern Wisconsin. She said her experience rebuilding the Solon Springs store has led her into still another career: Guiding other small town, small business owners through growth and new development.

The Entrepreneur Fund was established 30 years ago to support northeast and central

Minnesota businesses in growth and expansion. Thoreson worked for the group as a consultant in 2011 and landed a full time position two years later. After six years with firm she decided to establish her own firm: Arnson Solutions.

She now has two full time jobs.

“My two lives really intersect in that I want to see strong small communities,” she said. In her role as a consultant, Thoreson provides strategic planning and goal setting services and shares her own Solon Springs work experiences with other small businesses. “It’s a plus to be able to go to work everyday and see other small businesses grow, not just my own.”

For example, Thoreson is working with a central Minnesota firm to distribute a Minnesota made product nationwide.

“I get a lot of energy from just seeing businesses succeed,” she said. “In the store, I get a lot of energy working on a Saturday having people come and go and tell us what their doing with the products that they’re purchasing. I get a lot of energy working with clients and seeing their business successes.”

After 16 years of running a hardware store, Thoreson has learned business isn’t all about hammers, power saws

and house paint.

“During the day to day you can lose sight of the appreciation the community has for your business,” she said. “I think that’s probably the most heartwarming part of owning a business — the gratitude that you get from your customers and how it

positively affects their lives as far as having time to go out in the woods and hunt or down to the lake and fish with their grandkids.” D

Nicklawske is a Duluth freelance writer and arts critic for the Duluth News Tribune.

Mark

Taking the lead in Duluth’s building industry

By Shelby Lonne-Rogentine

Ifa Northland contractor or builder needs guidance or direction, Arrowhead Builders Association is there to help. Chelle Eliason, executive officer of ABA, is leading the charge to educate people about everything under the sun in the world of building.

The group offers classes in website development and business management, helps promote businesses and products, and offers a range of miscellaneous support, such as lobbying, business development and networking.

“Every day is a new day (in this job). There’s always a new adventure, focus or issue. It’s just always different,” Eliason said.

Her ABA post isn’t her only claim to local fame. She is the president of a consulting and coaching business, an adjunct instructor at Lake Superior

College, an author, and a radio host on WDSM on Saturday mornings. Occasionally, she also has time for side projects, like judging the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Shark Tank competition last year.

“I like behind the scenes,” Eliason said of her work. Much of her energy comes from teaching and helping others, she said. She has been asked to lead building education seminars at state and national conventions. She spoke at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas in February.

Before ABA, Eliason worked as a housing director and project manager. As it was early in her career, Eliason chuckles to think of the mistakes she immediately knew she made.

“I was supposed to pull certain permits, and it was obvious,” she said of a particular housing job. It

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

seems like something that most people would stress over. But Eliason, while still putting dedication and heart into her work, doesn’t seem to stress when it comes to the day-to-day stuff.

“I speak ‘boy,’” said Eliason of being a woman in a maledominated industry. “I like motorcycles, fast cars and other male-dominated things. It gives us a commonality.”

Eliason has a degree in architecture. Although she never worked for an architecture firm, she did work independently, co-owning a construction company. She also worked as a neighborhood revitalization specialist for pocket neighborhoods around Duluth. She still cares about the community. For example, she said she’s proud of how far Lincoln Park has come, recalling when Clyde Iron was nothing more than an abandoned building.

“I have enjoyed working with Chelle. She is an excellent executive officer,” said Gloria Allan, former ABA president. “She is well respected by her membership, a great guide and always looking for ways to help others advance. Honestly, after nine years on the board, I was prepared to step away and just help where needed. The changes that Chelle has brought to the association in seven years are the reason I continue as a board member now in my 13th year.”

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As Eliason makes strides in her own professional path, she paves the way for others who come after her.

“Today, there are more women than ever going into the trades,” she said. “It is not uncommon to come across more women on job sites. I would encourage girls to find a woman doing what you want to do and ask them to be a mentor.”

Eliason has no shortage of recommendations on her LinkedIn page from former clients.

“Chelle’s business coaching skills, diverse background, and the extensive toolbox of processes and resources she brought to the table were instrumental in strengthening the foundation and future of my business. She is very committed to her clients and teaching them how to make their growth goals a reality,” said a review from Rose Sorensen, an architectural design consultant client of Eliason’s.

“I have two passions. I love what I do with ABA,” Eliason said. “It’s such a rewarding industry. I am even more passionate about the coaching work I do.”

The Arrowhead Builders Association can be found at abamn.org. D

SK IN PE N MI CR ON EED LI NG

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Shelby Lonne-Rogentine is a Duluth freelance writer.

Teamwork and expertise mend woman's heart

COMPLEX PROCEDURE, TINY HOLE

By Connie Wirta

How

do you mend a broken heart?

For Carol Staples, it took open-heart surgery to replace two faulty valves and a second procedure to repair a tiny hole.

“My heart feels great,” says the 68-year-old Hibbing woman. “I don’t have to hold back. I feel like I can go anywhere.”

Last May, Carol had openheart surgery to replace two valves. While her surgery with Essentia Health Cardiothoracic Surgeon Christopher Heck was a success, her body’s ability to heal was hampered by other medical conditions.

“I felt tired all the time, and I couldn’t walk without getting winded,” Carol recalls. “I didn’t know what I could do.”

An ultrasound last September discovered a tiny hole had developed near Carol’s new mitral valve. It was leaking blood, shearing off red blood cells and putting too much pressure an

upper chamber of her heart. She was suffering from fatigue, anemia and needed blood transfusions.

Carol’s rare diagnosis brought together a team of experts at the Essentia Health St. Mary’s-Heart & Vascular Center in Duluth. The meeting drew specialists from cardiology, interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, anesthesiology, hematology, critical care and hospitalists.

“We take a team approach, and everyone works together to do what’s best for patients,” explains Dr.

Kalkidan Bishu, an Essentia Health interventional cardiologist. “We review every detail and discuss what we can do for each patient.”

In Carol’s case, the team decided that another openheart surgery was not the best option because the hole had developed as part of her healing process and could happen again. The next option, and what was determined the best option, was a complex procedure that Dr. Bishu had performed during training as an interventional cardiologist. He would use a minimally invasive procedure to insert three tiny metal mesh plugs to close the hole.

During the 2½-hour procedure in the cardiac catheterization lab, Dr. Bishu expertly guided a small catheter from a vein in Carol’s right thigh to the upper right chamber of her beating heart. Next, he pushed through the heart’s wall to reach the upper left chamber and the mitral valve. Then he

(From left) Carol Staples listens as Dr. Kalkidan Bishu, an Essentia Health interventional cardiologist, explains how he repaired a tiny hole in her heart.

carefully inserted the mesh plugs to close the hole and stop the damage. Throughout, he relied on real-time imaging from Dr. Kimberly Boddicker, a cardiologist.

While Dr. Bishu and other interventional cardiologists use similar techniques to place stents and do other heart repairs, it was the first time the local team had tried the more complex procedure that often is done only in the largest hospitals or academic settings.

“Our success with Carol illustrates the growing expertise of Essentia Health’s team here in Duluth,” says Dr. Michael Mollerus, the division chair for Heart & Vascular Services. “We’ve built a team that can provide comprehensive care short of a heart transplant. We work together to bring the best heart care close to home for our patients.”

Carol says she didn’t realize how unique her care was. “I felt like this was the best choice, and Dr. Bishu was so confident,” she says. “Once he explained it all, I just wanted to get it done. I knew Dr. Bishu had done the procedure before in Colorado, but they’d never done it here in Duluth. I found out how unusual the surgery was afterwards.”

Carol says she quickly began feeling better. “After the procedure, I was walking right away and walking farther than I had after my open-heart surgery,” she recalls.

Carol spent 15 days in the hospital after her open-heart surgery and then spent time in a rehabilitation center. She was hospitalized for three days after the catheterization procedure and went directly home. “A second open-heart surgery would have been more complex with even longer recovery,” Dr. Bishu says. “Her healing and recovery went very well, as the team expected when we recommended this course of treatment.”

Carol praised the care she received from the Heart & Vascular Center team, especially Dr. Bishu. “I’d trust Dr. Bishu in a minute,” she says. “He has a very good bedside manner and he’s really good at explaining everything. Doing a stent is nothing compared to what he did for me.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Kalkidan Bishu, or another member of the Essentia Health St. Mary’s- Heart & Vascular Center team, call (218) 7863443. D

Connie Wirta is an editor for Essentia Health. She wrote this for The Woman Today.

By Andrea Busche

A legacy of dressing up

Patricia Dennis works on a costume for an upcoming performance of "Sister Act" at the UMD costume shop.

Costume

Patricia Dennis

Even after 40 years as a Duluthian, Patricia Dennis still has the hint of a southern accent. She is prone to uttering phrases such as, “Thank you kindly,” and, “That really trips my trigger,” instantly giving her away as someone who has spent more than a few years as a southern belle.

While it’s true that she spent her early adulthood in the South, today, Dennis considers herself a Duluthian, through and through. Her entire professional career has been spent as a faculty member at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she has worked as a professor, acting dean, and head of the theater department.

Over the years, Dennis has designed countless costumes, created and styled a multitude of wigs and mustaches, and applied many faces of makeup, all in the name of “creating character” — the ultimate goal of someone in her position. She has worked in a multitude of media, including musicals, opera,

Early life abroad and in the south

The middle child of a military father and a homemaker mother, Dennis was born in Japan. The family spent time stationed at Fort Rucker, Ala., and Fort Campbell, Ky., before settling in for good in Wichita, Kan. Looking back to try to retrace her inspiration for costume design, hair and makeup, Dennis recalls a few early hints.

“In junior high, I had to take home economics classes, but sewing and designing wasn’t necessarily anything I thought of doing beyond whatever my current school project was,” she said. “I have always loved playing with makeup and hair, though.”

Introduction to the theater

During her high school years, Dennis became involved in the drama club. She helped backstage, and did a little acting. She decided to become a theater major in college, and enrolled at Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan.

Throughout college, her attraction to the theater intensified. “I took a stagecraft class, where I learned about the workings of what goes on backstage,” she said. “I loved every minute of it, and liked the community of theater.”

During college, Dennis was involved with the productions of “Camelot” and “Ring Around the Moon,” among other shows. She was the milliner for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” for which she designed and created all the head pieces. She also gained experience working as a soundboard operator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in technical theater.

After graduation, Dennis chose to pursue a master’s degree. She first attended Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, later transferring to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she graduated with a Master of Fine Arts degree in costume design, makeup and wigs.

Continued on page 34

A move to Duluth

Other than having a best friend who was originally from Minnesota, Dennis had no knowledge of the area. While working as an instructor in Lincoln, Dennis was perusing professional theater magazines and considering her next move. She saw a posting for what was advertised as a summer job as a costume designer at UMD.

She explains how three months turned into 40 years, saying, “It was supposed to be just for the summer, but UMD had just lost their costume designer, who had resigned. I was offered the job, but I was also offered a job at a Big Ten school. I ultimately took the job here, and I’ve never regretted it.”

Dennis shared how she was immediately enthralled with Duluth. “I remember driving up here, still, to this day, and coming over Thompson Hill. I was in awe. It reminded me of a ski resort town. I was taken by the beauty of the area, and the lake.”

While she has grown to accept and even enjoy the snow, there is one Duluth inconvenience that almost drove her away: army worms. “I bought plenty of long underwear and a portable space heater, but I couldn’t handle my car sliding across the road because of the army worms,” she said with a laugh. Thankfully, the worms eventually receded, and Dennis ultimately made the decision to stay.

Different roles, different skills

While Dennis was initially hired to be UMD’s costume designer, she has subsequently held the roles of assistant

professor, head of the Theater Department, acting dean, and associate professor of theater — the role she holds today. And when it comes to the theater, Dennis wears many hats.

In addition to being talented in drawing and painting, necessary skills for creating the sketches, drawings and renderings which ultimately become

theater costumes, she is also trained in wig creation and “refronting,” where the hair of an existing wig is styled and shaped. Dennis is also trained in sewing, patterning and fabrics, skills she utilizes for designing and creating costumes for theater actors.

She can also create any kind of

Continued on page 36

Patricia Dennis is retiring in May after a 40-year career designing costumes for the theater department at UMD.

character through the use of makeup. This can include prosthetics, special-effects makeup, creating the look of blood, gore, or an injury, and of course, makeup for beauty, such as contouring and “high-definition” makeup, which is intended to make its wearer appear utterly flawless. “Some young actresses are made to look like they’re not wearing any makeup, but you’d be surprised at just how much they’re wearing to look that way,” Dennis said.

One of Dennis’ most unforgettable productions was on the set of the production “Starmites.” “It took place in space,” she said. “It was futuristic, and a very campy show. I remember being there day after day until 1, 2 and 3 a.m., with the rest of the crew. But it didn’t matter; we were so excited about the show.”

A sampling of costume designs from various productions at UMD were designed by Patricia Dennis. She hand-draws the designs then works from those drawings.

David Ballard Photography

Above all, Dennis sees her work behind the scenes as necessary to help tell the story. “When working with a play or script, we’re trying to tell a story or inform the audience,” she said. “Designing an appropriate costume or creating character through makeup hopefully enhances the actor’s feeling about their role.”

Other work

In addition to her 40 years at UMD, Dennis has done plenty of other theaterrelated work along the way. For instance, she was the onset costumer for the film “Iron Will,” which was filmed in Duluth. She has done freelance work for Renegade Theater, the Duluth Playhouse and numerous independent, local films and commercials.

She tells the story of being hired to work as a makeup artist on a commercial for the State Tourism Board, which featured well-known actors Bob Denver and Alan Hale Jr. You’d probably know them better by the names Gilligan and the Skipper, from the iconic TV show “Gilligan’s Island.”

“They were such nice men, especially Alan Hale,” Dennis said. “He was really laid-back, and told me I had the softest hands of any makeup artist he’d ever worked with.”

A drawing by Patricia Dennis shows her design for Moliere's "Bourgeois Gentleman," produced by the UMD Department of Theatre. Submitted photo

A drawing by Patricia Dennis shows the design for a pink dress for the opera "Die Fledermaus," produced by the UMD Department of Music. Submitted photo

Post-retirement plans

After a 40-year career, Dennis is looking forward to a much-deserved retirement. She plans to do some maintenance projects on her home, located near UMD, and do a bit of traveling.

She’ll spend more time with her best friend, Leanna, goddaughter Airika, and her dog, Jackson. She also plans to spend more time on her favorite hobbies, including knitting and reading. But she isn’t opposed to staying professionally active; in fact, Dennis plans to continue working as a freelancer, and wants to become more involved in the community.

“I’m ready for retirement,” she said. “I’m not looking back with any regret. But the biggest and hardest change will be not seeing my students every day.”

Teaching legacy

While Dennis has been involved with many impressive shows and projects along the way, she wants her true legacy to be that of an educator. She mentions a few of her students who have gone on to find vast professional success in their fields, including Sara C. Olson, who has worked on the “Hunger Games” franchise; Jeff Stolz, now the head of the theater department at Viterbo University; and Bonnie Flesland, a wardrobe director who has toured with Prince, Janet Jackson and others.

“Each and every one of my students is special,” Dennis said. “As teachers, our students touch our hearts in ways they don’t realize. Watching a student gain confidence and understand the potential inside themselves is so rewarding. To see them come into their own as artists, it’s just a privilege to be a part of that.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer and frequently profiles some of the area’s most interesting people for The Woman Today.

A 40-year retrospective honoring the work of Patricia Dennis will be held in the UMD Marshall Performing Arts Center lobby from April 15-May 3.

By Chris Dahlberg

Divorce is stressful, as are other family law matters such as child custody, parenting time and spousal maintenance. Mediation, which exists in one form or another across states, has been very helpful at reducing a lot of the stress. Mediation allows parties an ability to resolve matters outside court before they go for the “nuclear option” of all-out war in trial where much time, emotional energy and money are spent.

Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District (St. Louis, Carlton, Lake and Cook counties) has Early Neutral Evaluation (ENE). Similar to mediation, this evaluative process works toward party resolution. However, the nuanced difference is that in this process, evaluators work to show both sides the strengths and weaknesses of their

Reducing divoRce StReSS

Early neutral evaluation can help parties reach a settlement agreement

positions, and then see if the parties can reach a settlement agreement. It is always said it’s not a matter of finding a resolution that is perfect for both parties, but one they can live with, and one that saves the great emotional and financial cost of trial.

The process starts where parties attend, with their attorneys if represented, an Initial Case Management Conference (ICMC). This ICMC is held very early so as to avoid parties from hardening their positions and letting things get caustic. This ICMC is very informal. There is no making of big arguments. Rather, the judicial officer running the ICMC merely asks if the parties are interested in the ENE process and attempting this type of mediation. ENE is totally voluntary. Parties don’t need to participate but most are willing to try. In my experience, participating in the ENE is a wise decision. Most cases are settled through the process.

At the initial ICMC, an evaluator or evaluators are chosen and a date for the evaluation is set right then. Generally, the date for the mediation is set within four weeks of an ICMC. There are two forms of evaluation:

Financial Early Neutral Evaluation

(FENE) and Social Early Neutral Evaluation (SENE). An FENE handles financial issues and an SENE handles matters involving children in a family law case. When there is an SENE, there are two evaluators — one male evaluator and one female evaluator. These evaluators receive special training. Most are attorneys but need not be.

The mediation starts where the evaluator(s) give an introduction and explain the ground rules. The goal is always to make parties comfortable and lower stress. Sometimes parties are in the same room through the process. However, where one side or both feel uncomfortable being in the same room, the evaluator(s) may shuttle between rooms to see if the parties can reach an agreement.

When parties reach agreement in the ENE process, a settlement agreement is drafted right then and signed by the parties. The settlement agreement is an enforceable document. Following the ENE, by agreement of the parties, one of the attorneys then drafts a Stipulated Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, Judgment and Order. Finally, that document ultimately gets forwarded to the court for entry of a final order. D

Chris Dahlberg is an attorney practicing in the area of family law with Dahlberg Law Office, P.A. (218) 722 5809.

Finding success at St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center

After nine months of consistent effort, Gina shed 45 pounds. Looking back on her success, she recognizes now how important it was for her to find a local, convenient place to work out. For Gina, that was St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center.

A full-service center

Located inside Proctor High School, St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center opened this past fall. The Center is available to both community members as well as Proctor High School students, and offers all the amenities needed to foster health and wellness.

St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center provides its members with strength training equipment and free weights, cardio equipment and squat racks. A full line-up of fitness classes and personal training services are available, as well as a staff that is passionate about health and fitness.

“I’m all about wellness and just being healthy,” said Shannon Polson, Fitness Center Coordinator at St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center. “I really enjoy how it makes me feel, and I know that it can make other people feel great too.”

By Claire Kiger

Gina Tennison knew it was time for a change.

“I had let go of working out and eating healthy,” said the Proctor local reflecting on 2017. “I had also put on quite a bit of weight in doing that. So I decided that as I was turning 40, I wanted to make my health a focus again.”

Refusing to settle for quick fixes, Gina adopted the mindset of “slow and steady.” She started exercising regularly and tracking her calorie intake. She also connected with her primary care provider, Dr. Denver Ulland at St. Luke’s Mount Royal Medical Clinic, to get his thoughts on her plans for moving forward.

“Dr. Ulland spent time with me explaining the science of weight loss,” Gina said. “It was really helpful to hear his perspective.”

Fitness classes

Fitness classes are offered daily, with Shannon leading many of them. As a regular in morning yoga, Gina has especially appreciated Shannon’s ability to teach.

“Shannon can lead someone who’s never been in a class before without singling them out,” Gina said. “At the same time, she can make it challenging enough for those who are more experienced. She’s a great instructor.”

In addition, Pilates cardio and high intensity interval training (HIIT) classes alternate daily over the noon hour. Senior-specific classes are available every day later in the mornings. All fitness classes are held at St. Luke’s Sports & Events Center in Proctor.

Shannon is especially passionate about the benefits of group exercise. “There’s so much in the media about how you

Jake Disterhaupt and Shannon Polson at St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center. St. Luke's photo

should look and eat, but just being a normal, middle-aged person, I know that’s not how the real world works,” she said. “Connecting with others through fitness is important to me.”

Personal training

Even after losing her 45 pounds, Gina still has goals for herself. “My hopes are to continue being consistent with diet and exercise,” she said. “I’d also like to be able to do 10 pull-ups eventually.”

To help her accomplish these goals, Gina has recently teamed up with Jake Disterhaupt, Strength & Conditioning Program Coordinator at St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center, for personal training.

“I love personal training,” explained Jake. “It’s really rewarding to help individuals get where they want to be.”

Gina has appreciated Jake’s help and enjoys the individualized workouts he’s created for her. “He definitely can provide a workout that you will feel the next day or two,” Gina said. “But he also makes it a lot of fun and asks questions along the way to make sure you’re comfortable.”

Personal training is offered at the Center to individuals or small groups by appointment with either Jake or Shannon.

The future of the center

As for the future of the center, Shannon anticipates growth. “I’d like to offer more classes and expand our hours on weekends eventually.” Coming soon, members will have the opportunity to access the Proctor High School pool.

St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center is open Monday through Saturday. Memberships are available on a monthly or annual basis. Day passes can be purchased as well. Physical therapy is offered onsite with a

physician referral. Soon, the Proctor High School pool will be available for physical therapy.

Overall, Gina is thankful for St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center and everything it offers. “It’s so convenient because it’s local,” she said. “The equipment is great, and the staff is just so welcoming and helpful.”

The staff is just as grateful to be a part of it. “St. Luke’s has been a phenomenal place to work,” Jake said.

“There’s a large opportunity for growth because of how much the organization is currently growing. It’s a great time to be a part of the St. Luke’s team.”

For more information about St. Luke’s Proctor Fitness Center, including a full list of fitness classes, visit slhduluth.com/ProctorFitnessCenter or call (218) 249-6296. D

Claire Kiger is a marketing specialist and writer for St. Luke’s.

By Joanne Treviranus-Glowacki

Make a financial plan — the secret of your success

Asset Allocation Is Key2

Your asset allocation — or the way you divide your investments among stocks, fixed-income securities, and cash — plays a pivotal role in your financial plan, because the investment decisions you make over time will have a direct effect on your ability to meet your goals.

financial needs, such as insurance. Life insurance, which helps provide financial security in the event of a spouse's death,5 and long-term care insurance, which protects individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions from the high cost of long-term care, are both important considerations for women.

Afinancial

plan that includes longand short-term goals is important for everyone. Women, in particular, stand to benefit from this type of comprehensive financial planning.

Financial planning is more than just a good idea. Research has consistently shown that people who have financial plans — and who work with financial advisors — save and invest far more and are nearly twice as likely to feel on track or ahead of schedule in preparing for major financial goals, such as retirement.1

While having a financial plan is important for everyone, it is especially so for women. The gender wage gap, longer life expectancies, and potential retirement funding shortfalls are just a few of the factors that underscore women's need to plan ahead.

Defining Priorities

The first and most important step in the planning process is defining your life priorities — and then setting financial goals to support them. Once goals are set, you'll need to evaluate your current financial situation in terms of cash flow and budgeting, assets and debts, and then develop a realistic investment strategy for meeting your goals. This strategy should be based on your personal circumstances, including your risk tolerance and investment time horizon.

If, for instance, your primary goal is retirement, a significant portion of your portfolio should be in investments with the potential to grow over time, such as stocks or diversified stock mutual funds, ideally through taxsheltered retirement accounts.3,4 If buying a vacation home is a shorterterm goal, consider including taxable — but more liquid — growth-oriented elements in your investment mix.

Financial planning is an ongoing process. That's why you'll need to monitor your investments regularly and make adjustments as needed to reflect changes in your life, the economy, or the stock market.

Other Planning Considerations

In addition to managing your investments, consider other

Source/Disclaimer

1Insured Retirement Institute, news release, "Investors Better Prepared for Retirement, Still Lacking Financial Knowledge," August 19, 2014.

2Asset allocation does not assure a profit or protect against a loss.

3Investing in stocks involves risks, including loss of principal.

4Investing in mutual funds involves risk, including loss of principal. Mutual funds are offered and sold by prospectus only. You should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, expenses and charges of the investment company before you invest. For more complete information about any mutual fund, including risks, charges and expenses, please contact your financial professional to obtain a prospectus. The prospectus contains this and other information. Read it carefully before you invest.

Finally, no financial plan is complete without an estate plan. Estate planning helps ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. At a minimum, your estate plan should include an up-todate will, a durable power of attorney, a living will and possibly trusts, which may help minimize your estate's tax liability.

If you are ready to start planning for your financial future, contact a financial advisor. Together you can evaluate your current situation, create a plan, and keep it on track as circumstances in your life change. D

5Life insurance policies are subject to substantial fees and charges. Death benefit guarantees are subject to the claimspaying ability of the issuing life insurance company. Loans will reduce the policy's death benefit and cash surrender value, and have tax consequences if the policy lapses.

Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/ SIPC. Frandsen Bank & Trust and Frandsen Investment Services are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. The investment products sold through LPL Financial are not insured Frandsen Bank & Trust deposits and are not FDIC insured. These products are not obligations of Frandsen Bank & Trust and are not endorsed, recommended or guaranteed by Frandsen Bank & Trust or any government agency. The value of the investment may fluctuate, the return on the investment is not guaranteed, and loss of principal is possible.

Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by DST Systems, Inc. or its sources, neither DST Systems, Inc. nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall DST Systems, Inc. be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber's or others' use of the content. © 2018 DST Systems, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited, except by permission. All rights reserved. Not responsible for any errors or omissions.

Joanne Treviranus-Glowacki is an investment representative for Frandsen Investment Services.

What Happens After a Dementia Diagnosis?

If your loved one has just been diagnosed with dementia, you may have seen it coming for a while and had time to research what’s next. Many people, however, have no idea about their loved one’s memory loss, and a diagnosis like Alzheimer’s disease can come as a shock. It’s important to look into your next steps, to understand what to expect and how you, and experts like the staff at Edgewood Memory Care in Hermantown, can help. Here are some ideas of what is to come after an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis:

Talking about dementia

Dementia doesn’t only affect the person who has been diagnosed, his or her family and friends must also come to terms with this difficult diagnosis. The person you care about is going to need help and support for the rest of his or her life. To manage that, while staying in good physical and mental health yourself, can be a daunting task. Talking about the diagnosis with a professional or with others going through a similar experience can help you understand exactly what is going on and learn some of what to expect as your loved one’s memory loss advances.

Alzheimer’s

It’s overwhelming when you’re suddenly responsible for someone else’s entire world: finances, house, chores and even basic daily needs; caring for a loved one can be demanding and it changes the lives of everyone involved. Your relationship shifts from one of husband/ wife, mother/daughter, father/son, aunt/nephew, grandparent/grandchild to caregiver and patient; this transition can create tension and stress in even the most solid and close-knit families.

Learning about dementia

Like most family caregivers, you probably didn’t plan to be in this role or fully prepare for everything it would entail. When your loved one started to show signs of memory loss you just jumped right in. Studies show that the majority of family caregivers caring for senior loved ones have no formal medical training or education. Family caregivers of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia are even less prepared to manage all the changes and obstacles that come with this disease.

Edgewood understands that that average person isn’t well versed in dementia or caring for someone with dementia, until they’re faced with the challenge. However, the Edgewood Memory Care team is well-trained and educated on the

presented by Edgewood & the Alzheimer’s Association

topic. All staff complete an intensive orientation program over the course of their first 60 days and continued, on-going training and routine checkins, to ensure they’re retaining and utilizing their specialized training.

The Edgewood team is excited to partner with local Alzheimer’s Association® experts to offer a public version of their training program to area family caregivers, free of charge, in a six-part educational series. The series will explore the changes and challenges associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia and provides support, guidance, tips and proven practices and techniques to help family caregivers succeed throughout their journey.

When You Think of Dementia, What Do You Think Of?

When most people hear dementia or Alzheimer’s they automatically think memory loss. Although memory loss is the most widely recognized symptom, and often the first noticeable one, it is just one part of many cognitive and physical changes that occur. Receive an overview of dementia and learn the major physical and overall thought process changes associated. Explore the disease process, the different types of dementia,

the early signs and symptoms and common myths and facts about the disease; plus, much more!

Join the Edgewood team at one or all of the upcoming six-part series events:

Tuesday, February 26 - 10 Warning Signs

Monday, March 25 - Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Tuesday, April 30 - Effective Communication Strategies

Tuesday, May 28 - Understanding & Responding to Dementia Related Behavior

Tuesday, June 25 - Healthy Living for your Brain & Body: Tips from the Latest Research

Tuesday, July 23 - Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning

Josh &

Photo by Sternberg Photography

Keira & Tyler Leskela

Photo by LaCoursiere Photography

Derek & Sarah Plehal

Photo by Alan Johnson Photography

Our Secret: 98% Customer Satisfaction

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Arts & Events Calendar

“Sweeney Todd”

March 28-April 14

This musical thriller tells the story of an obsessively vengeful barber and his twisted partnership with the outrageous Mrs. Lovett, who devise a devilish plot to add a special ingredient to a recipe that has all of London dying for their pies. $35-$50. ThursdaySaturday 7:30 p.m. Sunday 2 p.m. NorShor Theatre. (218) 733-7555. duluthplayhouse.org.

“The Fan”

April 5-14

The gift of a simple lady's fan sparks one misunderstanding after another, as two gentlemen pursue the same young woman. $15. CSS Theatre. (218) 723-7000. css.edu.

Visual Culture Lecture Series

April 9

Chris Monroe is an artist, cartoonist, children’s book author and illustrator who lives in Duluth. Melanie Walby is the Design Director of Pollen working to further a mission to change the world with art and storytelling. 6 p.m. Free. Montague 70, 1211 Ordean Ct. More info: https://z.umn.edu/UMDVCLS

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

April 9

From dogs jumping rope to cats pushing strollers, this show is ideal for kids and kids-at-heart. Features the unique blend of comedy and juggling skills of former Moscow Circus veteran Gregory Popovich and the extraordinary talents of his performing pets. 6 p.m. at the Duluth Playhouse Children’s Theater, 506 W. Michigan St. Tickets $25, children $20.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

• Dr. Paul K. Hodapp

• Dr. Scott K. Varland

• Dr. Nathan A. Jarnot

Toward the Heavens

April 13

The DSSO plays works by Tchaikovsky and Mendelssohn. Unforgettable melodies and powerful choruses will inspire you. $20-$55. 7 p.m. at DECC Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Dr. dsso.com

“Take Me to your Lieder”

April 14

UMD Music presents a resident artist recital by Elias Mokole, baritone, who will be assisted by UMD faculty musicians Jefferson Campbell, bassoon; Brett Linski, oboe and David Chin, harpsichord with student musicians. 7:30 p.m. at Weber Music Hall. Tickets: (218) 726-8877 or tickets.umn.edu.

“Sister Act”

April 18

Based on the 1992 movie, this disco musical follows Deloris on her escape from the clutches of corruption, as gritty Philadelphia meets the sanctuary of the church. April 18-20 and 24-27 at 7:30 p.m. April 28 at 2 p.m. $8-$21. UMD’s Marshall Performing Arts Center, 1215 Ordean Ct.

Cirque du Soleil — Crystal

April 19-21

World-class ice skaters and acrobats take their new frozen playground by storm with speed and fluidity as they change the laws of gravity with a flurry of unexpected acrobatics. Crystal fuses circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production. Suitable for all ages. Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 12:30, 4 and 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 1:30 and 5 p.m. $44-122. (800) 745-3000. DECC Amsoil Arena, 350 Harbor Dr.

Easter EGG-stravaganza

April 20

Hop on down to the Lake Superior Zoo and enjoy hunting for eggs, playing games, special animal enrichments, treats, prizes and the Easter Bunny himself! 1 0 a.m.-2 p.m. 7210 Fremont St., Duluth. Cost: $5 for ages 3-12, $10 for ages 13 and older. Members are free. (218) 730-4500. lszoo.org.

“The Fantasticks”

April 25-May 11

A funny and romantic musical about a boy, a girl and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator, El Gallo, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. $20. ThursdaySaturday 7:30 p.m. Underground Theatre. (218) 733-7555. duluthplayhouse.org.

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Arts & Events Calendar

The Comedy of Errors

April 26

Wise Fool Theater presents one of William Shakespeare's early plays, a farcical comedy revolving around a series of mishaps based on mistaken identities. April 26-28, May 3-5 Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. $15-$20. Call the Wise Fool Theater box office at (218) 2694953. UWS Manion Theater, 1805 Catlin Ave. wisefooltheater.com

Fitger’s 5K Run & Walk 2019

April 27

This 30th annual event begins at the Fitger's Brewery Complex and runs through downtown Duluth on Superior Street into Canal Park, finishing back at Fitger's. Entry fee is $35 in advance, $40 on race day, and $10 for children ages 6 to 14. 9 a.m. (218) 727-0947. grandmasmarathon.com

“The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace”

April 27-28

UMD Music presents a masterworks concert by the Symphony Orchestra and Chorale ensembles at Weber Music Hall. “The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace” was written by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins in 1999. One of the most popular modern works for chorus and orchestra, this daring and energetic piece features poetry and sacred texts from a variety of times and traditions, reflecting on the anguish of war and the promise of peace. Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets: (218) 726-8561 or tickets.umn.edu.

Homegrown Music Festival

April 28 to May 5

The Homegrown Music Festival is an annual community celebration of the original and diverse music of Duluth and its surrounding communities. What started in 1999 with five acts has matured in its 20th year to an eightday community-wide local music, arts and cultural extravaganza. duluthhomegrown.org

Duluth Lions Club Pancake Day

May 2

All-you-can eat pancakes and more. Proceeds support local programs for sight, hearing, diabetes and youth needs. DECC Pioneer Hall, 350 Harbor Dr. $7 in advance, $8 at the door. Children younger than 4 are free with a paid adult. 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Duluth Junk Hunt

May 3-4

Find some one-of-a-kind treasures at the Duluth Junk Hunt! This semi-annual sale features an array of different “junk” vendors from Duluth, the Twin Cities, and around the area showcasing all things vintage, antique, & re-purposed! (And with more vendors than

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ever, this promises to be the biggest and best Junk Hunt yet!) A fun two day, indoor market held inside the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, $5 admission, which is good for both days. Food, beverages, t-shirts & totes will also be available for purchase. Visit duluthjunkhunt.com for more info, and follow us on Facebook! Open Friday

Party for the Planet: Spring into Action

May 4

The Lake Superior Zoo will team up with families in Duluth to help keep microplastics out of our waterways. Families will join zoo staff at 5 p.m. to remove microplastics and other trash from the shores of Kingsbury Creek, which flows through the zoo and into Lake Superior. After the cleanup, participants will be invited inside the zoo for dinner and activities that celebrate our planet, including live music, upcycled crafts and fire dancers. Bag it, Duluth will be there as a community partner. 7210 Fremont St., Duluth. (218) 7304500. lszoo.org.

Along the Mediterranean

May 4

The DSSO’s final journey of the season will be pure fun — a party trip along the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Experience three views of Spanish music: one by a Russian, one by a Spaniard and one by a Frenchman. $20-$55. 7 p.m. at DECC Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Dr.

DSSYO Spring Concert

May 5

For over 75 years, young musicians across the Northland have found inspiration in the Duluth Superior Symphony Youth Orchestras. Competitive auditions are held annually to find new members. Membership is open to students age 10 through high school. 3 p.m. at CSS Mitchell Auditorium, 1200 Kenwood Ave.

Annual Port Cities Luncheon

Wednesday May 8, 2019 Noon

Greysolon Ballroom by Black Woods

Speaker: Justin Liles

Chief Meteorologist - WDIO/WIRT TV

Theme: "Weather" or not...

Tickets $20, to reserve call Marcia Semerau at 218-576-5531

Deadline to reserve, Wednesday, April 24

Winnie the Pooh

May 11-26

Saturdays 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sundays at 2 p.m. This honey-filled delight is based on the beloved characters of A.A. Milne. Winnie the Pooh is once again in search of honey. Along the way, he meets his pals Tigger,

Piglet, Rabbit and Owl, but soon discovers that Christopher Robin has been captured by the mysterious Backson! Performed by TYA’s adult acting company. Tickets $15-$17. 506 W. Michigan St. Call (218) 733-7555 or visit duluthplayhouse.org.

Biglietti the Illusionists

May 21

This will be a fun night full of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, The Illustionists has shattered box office records worldwide and thrilled audiences of all ages with a mind-blowing spectacular showcasing the

jaw-dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. $45-$65. 7:30 p.m. DECC Symphony Hall.

“Eurydice”

May 30-June 8

Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must journey to the underworld, where she reunites with her father and struggles to remember her soulmate whom she left behind. With contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breathtaking visual effects, the play is a fresh look at a timeless love story. $20. ThursdaySaturday 7:30 p.m. Underground Theatre. (218) 733-7555. duluthplayhouse.org.

Lake home looks like Italian Villa and came together like a symphony

By Alison Stucke

Theterracotta-roofed home sits on the shores of a lake near Duluth, but it could easily be a European villa set on an Italian lake. The house has two balconies, and the backyard boasts a multi-leveled garden with brick patio and walkways that provide a charming view of the lake. A miniature Venus de Milo stands in the garden, surrounded by colorful flora. During the evening, lights under the soffits turn on to give the home a lovely glow. Inside the home, tall windows and glass patio doors allow the sunlight or moonlight to reflect off the porcelain floors for a Tuscan vibe. The husband-and-wife homeowners moved into their new home

Continued on page 57

Details decorate many parts of this lake home, including this ornate stairway.

A combination of natural and artificial lighting creates light, airy spaces throughout the home.

in December 2017. Building had started two years earlier.

The home came together like a symphony

“I am so impressed by all the people who put it together,” said the husband about their new beautiful new home. “It all came together like a symphony. Jody Keppers, the architect, said he had never before worked with such a compatible team.”

The home’s has a metal terracotta style roof that appears to be ceramic, in keeping with the home’s Mediterranean style. Enter the home through the main door and foyer, and classic beauty surrounds you, starting with two large Chinese vases — one on each side of the door, art pieces which the husband acquired during his travels. To the left is a curved staircase winding down to the home’s lower level. The staircase has a cherrywood bannister with bent metal decorative rail, and overhead in the foyer a crystal chandelier (one of seven chandeliers in the home) provides alabaster light.

Great room, dining room and kitchen

Straight ahead is the great room, with stately pillars at each side of the room’s entrance, curved entries with

Continued on page 58

rounded lines found throughout the home, plus a wall of windows and a door to a stucco motif balcony with Mediterranean balusters giving a panoramic view of the lake. Natural tones appear in the light brown walls, hickory wood floors, wrought iron and dark wood side tables, and ivory chairs. This comfortable room has a large-screen TV and a sound system that pipes music throughout the house and even outside to the balcony that overlooks the lake.

To the right a painting by local artist Cheng-Khee Chee appears in a small cove before the dining room, which includes a long cherry table and Holiday cabinetry, porcelain flooring, and artistic chandelier by Ferguson Lighting Gallery. Another wall of windows in this room provides a view of the lake.

Next is the kitchen with Cambria quartz countertops in browns and golds by St. Germain’s. Tall cabinets provide plenty of shelving, with glass cases at the top shelf near the ceiling for the presentation of collectibles. Stainless steel appliances by Johnson Mertz include double ovens and a pull-out drawer microwave. A pull-out faucet about the range fills pots with water for cooking pasta. Double sinks — one in the countertop

and one in the kitchen’s island directly behind — are super convenient. Electrical outlets conveniently pop up from the countertops when needed. “We use them all the time,” said the wife.

The west wing Farther down that wing of the house is the sun room with oversized ivory chairs and ottomans, large curvetopped windows with a view of the lake, stone flooring, and glass doors with rubbed oil bronze handles. Next, the beautiful laundry room includes Cambria countertops in Grey Sands, and the guest powder room has marble countertops and a polished gold Delta faucet. The master bedroom and large master bathroom are also on this side of the house.

The mud room includes closets with lights that automatically turn on when the doors are opened, and hinges that provide a “soft close.” A door from the mud room opens to the garage and

utility room.

The husband’s library has builtin cabinetry and bookcases that hold his personal library from 45 years of collecting. Overhead, the chandelier was the same light fixture that hung in The Bellows restaurant and cocktail lounge during its run from 1969-97. “When they were closing, I had a chance to get that,” he said.

Down the spiral staircase

Descend the spiral staircase to find a charming entertainment/bar area at the bottom of the stairs. The ambiance is warm and welcoming with wood-look tile flooring, walls painted in golden tones, silver bar sink and faucet, and Cambria countertop with sparkles of gold. Also downstairs is the wife’s personal cream-colored library, which includes built-in cabinetry, lots of shelving, light carpeting and a window seat. The beautiful crystal ball light matches the ball-shaped pull handles on the cabinet drawers.

At one end of the lower level is an Asian-themed guest bedroom in grayish paint. Its bathroom includes a yin-and-yang inlay piece in the walk-in shower, and a repeated motif in the sink. At the other end of the lower level is an African-themed guest bedroom. This room includes a large

Continued on page 60

Formal spaces still have an intimate feel, and lake views abound.

Work spaces in the home include an office of polished wood and bookcases, and another space with a lighter feel and plenty of hidden storage.

brown wood bannister bed, white wood shutters on the windows, and a zebrapatterned chair. Both guest rooms have a beautiful view of the lake.

“It’s a special little community, no doubt about it,” the husband said of their new neighborhood.

Words about and from the professionals

The homeowners stressed again and again how impressed they were by the people who worked together to create their new home.

“Angie Cook, a painting genius, literally creates colors which bring rooms, doors and ceilings together,” the husband said in praise of the painter of the inside of the home. “Her painting skills are requested by those in the know extending to as far away as Florida. D.A.D.’s Electronics was intimately involved with the sound system and compilation of thousands of songs collected over decades. Rod Barber, the electrician, brought a complex wiring scheme together with ease. Pete Bigalow with Northern Designs did the stucco work and placed the balusters. The plumber was Art Kangas. His expertise was invaluable.”

So what did some of the professionals who worked on the home have to say about the project?

“This is a beautiful home,” said General Contractor Mark Bergstedt. “Building a house with such great style and architectural detail is a lot of fun for my crew and myself. This project was a perfect combination of a great set of house plans, drawn by architect Jody Keppers, along with home owners who knew what they wanted and were a joy to work with. This is why it was a smooth operation. You can see the result.

“I have more than 50 years of experience in the custom home building industry,” Mark continued. “I worked with my dad, Robert Bergstedt, for over 20 years. Dad built many homes around Duluth and was president of the Duluth Home Builders Association in the ’60s.

Many of my crew has been with me for years. The experience we have gathered over decades of building together is something that you just can’t beat.”

Troy of Miller Creek Lawn & Landscape was landscaper who created the multi-level gardens for this gorgeous home. He had these comments:

“It was a pleasure to work with the couple in the development of a landscape plan that reflected their particular needs and desires, promoting both an aesthetically pleasing landscape that enhances the Mediterranean lifestyle but one that is trend-setting, functional, low maintenance, and prudent plant choices for our climate,” he said. “Key elements included in the plan and implementation were large format paving stone sidewalks, driveway, two color driveway paving brick border, Travertine Terrace retaining walls, Travertine Natural Gas Fire Council with Travertine seat walls next to the beach area, irrigation system, Bluegrass

Continued on page 54-67

We look forwardtoyou stopping by andseeing our incredible choices of furniturefor your living room,bedroom, dining area and more. We deliver as well anywhereina 100 mile radiusof Cloquet, including Duluth.Come by Dave’s CloquetMattress& Furnituretoday or call us formoreinformation at 218-879-5008

A gently curved driveway runs by old-growth trees to a four-car garage. The grand entryway could easily be a home "across the pond."

THREE IRISH GIRLS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MAUREENS LLC

Landscaping details behind the home include gracefully curved paving stones and a statue of Venus de Milo. The backyard also grants private access to a lake.

blend grass, plantings and planting beds, and engraved custom address entrance rock. Miller Creek wishes the couple many years of enjoyment with their landscape.”

Maureen Plaunt was interior designer for the home project. Here’s what she had to say about working with the couple:

“This couple appreciates design attributes from all over the world,” she said. “They love Mediterranean architecture, but also wanted rooms themed from the Orient and Africa. Numerous online resources helped them to consolidate their vision and lifestyle expressions. Their laser-sharp focus made many of the selections easy to pull together. The fun was creating the layouts blending their sense of aesthetics with function you’d expect with today’s vast selections.

“It is hard to pick out just one room in the house as my favorite,” Maureen continued. “The rooms that I am most proud of are the library with the husband’s books, memorabilia, and the warm feeling that the crystal chandelier over his desk creates. The kitchen and dining room cherry wood cabinets show off the elegance of the home.

“From choosing cabinetry, flooring and color finishes in the home, the couple was great to work with,” Maureen said. “It was so fun to help them with completing their vision. I think we nailed Mediterranean.”

Clearly, building this home was a great experience for all involved. The teamwork involved resulted in a finished product of quality and beauty. D

Alison Stucke is a Duluth freelance writer. Her Home Touches feature can be found in every issue of The Woman Today.

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Healthy and delicious, Sicilian Pork Tenderloin is a one-pan delight

By Sarah and Tony Nasello

Thiseasy, delicious and healthy weeknight meal features Sicilian Pork Tenderloin and can be made in about 30 to 45 minutes. It uses just one pan and a few Sicilian staples to create a main course that has become a weeknight favorite in our home.

Pork tenderloin is an excellent addition to a healthy menu plan and is one of my go-to choices whenever I’m looking for a low-calorie protein that is both satisfying and nutritious. A 3-ounce serving of pork tenderloin has just 93 calories and boasts a bounty of energy-boosting nutrients like protein and vitamin B-6, as well as minerals like phosphorus and selenium to promote good bone health and regulate your metabolism.

For this dish, I cut a whole, plain pork tenderloin crosswise into one-inch medallions, which are seasoned with salt, pepper and fresh rosemary. Flavor is especially important when it comes to eating light and shouldn’t be compromised just because a dish is deemed healthy. If a dish doesn’t taste good, you may find yourself succumbing to the temptation of other, less-healthy alternatives.

This pork dish packs a punch of flavor by incorporating classic Sicilian ingredients like anchovies, capers and bell peppers to ensure that there is plenty of satisfying, savory goodness. Anchovies may seem like a surprising choice, but they are an excellent way to build flavor in a dish. When cooked properly, anchovies will simply melt into the other ingredients, bringing their wonderful, salty flavor without a trace of fishiness.

This recipe calls for four anchovy fillets, which are finely chopped to ensure that they will effortlessly blend with the other components. If you're squeamish about using anchovies, finely chopped Kalamata olives could be used instead.

Bell peppers are commonly used in Sicilian cuisine and they bring color and a touch of sweetness to this dish, as well as extra nutrition. For this dish I like to use a colorful blend of red, yellow or orange peppers, which tend to have a sweeter, more pleasing effect when cooked than green peppers.

Fresh herbs are another great way to build flavor without adding calories. To maximize its flavor and fragrance, fresh rosemary is added to this dish in three phases:

first, when seasoning the pork medallions; next, a teaspoon is cooked in with the bell pepper mixture; and final sprinkling just before serving.

Acid is also important when building flavor in a dish, and a dash of apple cider vinegar, added just at the end of cooking, works to brighten up the overall flavor and make sure that all the ingredients are working together. For a healthy finish, I serve the Sicilian Pork Tenderloin over a bed of sauteed spinach, but a healthy starch like brown rice pilaf or a long-noodle whole wheat pasta would also be excellent.

Easy to make, colorful, nutritious and delicious, Sicilian Pork Tenderloin has everything you need for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Sicilian Pork Tenderloin with Savory Peppers

Serves: 2 to 4

1 pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into medallions

1-inch thick

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped, divided

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, more as needed

2 to 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (about ¼ cup)

4 anchovy fillets, finely chopped

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (about 1/8 teaspoon)

1 small shallot, minced (about ¼ cup)

1 tablespoon capers

2 bell peppers, assorted colors, cut lengthwise into ½-inch wide strips

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

Water

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Trim any extra fat from the tenderloin and cut crosswise into 1-inch medallions. Sprinkle the top and bottom of each pork medallion with salt, pepper and about ½ teaspoon of the chopped rosemary.

In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Use tongs to place the medallions in the pan and cook on

1 side until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Turn the medallions and continue cooking over medium-high heat until lightly browned and an internal temperature of 135 degrees is achieved. Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the largest medallion to check for accuracy. Turn the heat to low and transfer medallion to a plate. Cover with foil and let rest.

Add the sliced garlic, chopped anchovies and crushed red peppers to the pan and cook over mediumlow heat for 1 minute, adding more oil if needed, 1 teaspoon at a time. Stir with a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Add the shallots, capers, 1 teaspoon of rosemary and the bell pepper strips and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, stirring to incorporate. Return the pork medallions to the pan, moving the peppers around so that the pork is directly on the pan.

Add a tablespoon of water to the pan and cook over medium-low heat for 2 minutes, then turn medallions over and continue cooking 1 to 2 more minutes until the peppers are softened and starting to brown.

Add the cider vinegar, any remaining rosemary and fresh parsley and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring to combine. Transfer contents of the pan to a platter and serve immediately.

Sauteed Spinach

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

5-ounce package of fresh spinach leaves

1 garlic clove, thinly sliced

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

In a medium saute pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the sliced garlic. Saute for 1 minute, then add all the spinach, stirring to combine. Cook until spinach begins to wilt, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove pan from heat and transfer spinach to a serving platter. Serve immediately. D

Sarah Nasello is a food writer for Forum Communications Co. Recipes are by her husband, Tony Nasello.

Chamber of Commerce dinner

More than 1,200 Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce members gathered for the annual dinner on Nov. 1 at the DECC. The event marked the 148th annual meeting.

Dinner at the Coppertop

About 830 people enjoyed a roast beef dinner at First United Methodist Church, “The Coppertop” on Oct. 11. Leftover meals were donated to CHUM, apple peelings were donated to a farm, and to-go meals included the offer of treats for dogs.

Annual Port Cities Luncheon

Wednesday May 8, 2019 •Noon

Greysolon Ballroom by Black Woods

Purpose: To name a2019 Woman of the Year -anoutstanding woman volunteer from the Port Cities area

Speaker: Justin Liles

Chief Meteorologist -WDIO/WIRTTV

Theme: “Weather” or not...

Tickets $20 -toreserve call Marcia Semerau at 218-576-5531

Deadline to reserve,April 24

Anna Nelson and Jane Pederson

Nikolai Breimon, Cindy Hedlund and Jeremiah Larson

Judy LaTour and Anna Abbott

Kristi Schmidt and Brianna Vander Heyden

Barbara and Bob (Tom) Bennett and Carol Norling

Judy Seliga-Punyko and Lt. Col Rob Troy

Larry Ehresman and the Rev. Jeanine Alexander

Steve Priolo and Charley Korsch

Kim Terhaar and Katherine Becker

Carrie Maki, Marlys Wolden and Patty Wallin

Chris Dahlberg and Julia Sonnen

Nancy and Dawn Hansen

Peter LaTour and Bud Hansen

Pam Kramer and Ron Alston

Carol Donahue and Mark Fitzgibbons

Karen Finseth and Colette Geary

Cordy Swanson and Kay Strand

Rob and Jean Stenberg

Jan and Don Gibson

American Association of University Women

The Northland Country Club special events room was full as people watched artist tell their stories. Sponsored by the American Association of University Women, the Nov. 8 event raised thousands of dollars in scholarships for women pursuing a graduate degree. Speaking that night were Ivy Vainio, Karen Sunderman, and Ann Gumpper. Musical entrainment included Linda Turpening and the Fish Heads- Kim Curtis-Monson and Curtis Monson.

League of Women Voters —

The League of Women Voters held a holiday party at The Depot in December. Christina Woods is the current present of LWV, and the theme was “Making Democracy Work.”

Joan Peterson and Rosie Loeffler-Kemp

Kat Huska and Devon Hovey

Rose Drewes and Ann Gumpper

Tom Aldridge and Patricia Kellar

Kim Rouf and Nancy Sivertson

Rosemary Guttormsson and Stacey DeRider

Lori Huska and Mary Streufert

Sarah Haavisto and Pamela Fish Carlson

Arnie and Ivy Vainio

Eileen Zeitz Hudelson and Jen Schultz

The Fishheads: Mike Monson and Kim Curtis-Monson

Jolene Boe and Triss Harwood

Ellen Wiss and Sandy Grandmaison

Anita Zager and Karin Buell

Will Munger and Lane Palmer

Mary Etchison and Kierstyn Fibert

Joyce Benson and Gail Schoenfelder

Tina Welch and Diane Bean

Susan Spaeth and Diane Brainard

Janet and Annie Kennedy

Elissa Husby and Shae Peacock

Printha Markert and Mardi Bagley

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