The Woman Today June/July 2019

Women making a difference

Meet the 2019 Rosie Award winners

• Historical society seeks real ‘Rosies’ stories

• Rainbow Layer Salad has colors of spring

Meet our Rosie winners

8 Alisha Blazevic

12 Crysta Reeves

16 Erin Pepelnjak

18 Kim Stokes

22 Laura Plys

24 Sue Ross

FEATURES

28 St. Louis County Historical Society gathering real-life 'Rosies' stories

ENTERTAINMENT/ARTS

40 Arts and Events Calendar

HEALTH/MEDICINE

32 Essentia

Essentia Health nurse serves Grandma’s Marathon

36 St. Luke's

Preventing strokes with the Watchman Device

FINANCE

34 Take the steps toward financial peace of mind

FASHION

38 Where to Shop

FOOD/NUTRITION

54 Rainbow Layer Salad has colors of spring

HOME TOUCHES

44 A “mountain contemporary” home in Congdon Park

A photo in the April-May issue misidentified a member of the staff at Duluth's Kitchi Gammi Club. Pictured are general manager Leanne Joynes (left) and events manager Sarah Hartley. David Ballard Photography

the kids have convinced me and “naughty is the new nice.” while…but then realized they are just itself is a valuable lesson. Little light-hearted banter would turn into family New Year’s Day party. is an opportunity to set new upcoming year. This year, thanks angle – rebranding! We looked be; for some it was ways to it was learning new hobbies

honing in some areas of your family’s interests, this issue of you covered with valuable your hopes, goals, and/or

Today and find great articles college preparations; Family Gras food fare; and Hobbies

you may enjoy our stories of new, slightly “funny,” option story of a young girl’s fresh start Ness Family opens their doors up to with a new chapter in

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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FEATURES

There was a lot of love in the room as The Woman Today magazine welcomed more than 200 guests to the Greysolon Ballroom in Duluth for the annual Rosie Awards on April 4. It was a wonderful night to share our appreciation of each other and let a few Northland women receive special recognition for all they do. These women have risen through different paths, but all are driving forces in the Northland, very much like the cultural icon namesake Rosie the Riveter. We’re featuring our winners in this issue and hope you enjoy getting to know them better.

GRAPHIC

Renae Ronquist

CORRECTION

Winners of the 2019 Rosie Awards.

Back from left: Crysta Reeves, Kimberly Stokes, Laura Plys.

Front from left: Suzanne Ross, Alisha Blazevic. Not pictured: Erin Pepelnjak. David Ballard Photography

Jones, Susan Peters, Mary Rasch, Alison Stucke, Connie Wirta

3rd Annual Rosie Awards

Women as a Driving Force Rosie Award Winners

The Woman Today hosted the third annual Rosie Awards April 4 at Greysolon Ballroom by Blackwoods. Six women were recognized for their achievements in a variety of categories, all of which celebrated "women as a driving force."

Writer Andrea Busche shares their stories on the following pages.

PHOTO BY MICHELLE TRUAX

The Woman Today's third annual Rosie Awards team presents a contribution of $940 to local women's shelter Safe Haven on May 8. Pictured from left: The Rosie team, Michelle Truax, multimedia producer; Kathleen Pennington, advertising sales manager; Ali Comnick, multimedia advertising executive; Megan Keller, advertising director; and from Safe Haven, Heather Drees, resource center manager; Susan Utech, executive director; Samentha Sakry, resource advocate; Madeline Nelson, legal advocate. The Woman Today is proud to present contributions to organizations such as Safe Haven. We look forward to hosting the Rosies again next year. Thank you to all our sponsors, nominees and attendees for helping us make this event a success.

Specialists in

Silent Advocate Award

Duluth nurse thrives in work at PAVSA

By Andrea Busche

Alisha Blazevic is an outgoing and extroverted woman. She is comfortable speaking in public, and enjoys spreading the word about her work. So, it might be a bit surprising to learn that she is the recipient of the Silent Advocate award — a special honor given to a woman who silently helps their communities and their neighbors.

But much of Blazevic’s work is done quietly, without any fanfare, in order to shelter and protect the vulnerable patients and victims she serves. Blazevic is the lead SANE (sexual assault nurse examiner) nurse at PAVSA (Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault). She sees men and women ages 12 and older who have been victims of sexual violence. She also works as a registered nurse (RN) at Essentia Health, in the surgical intensive care unit.

Blazevic is involved with PAVSA because she feels called to the work. Please allow us to introduce you to Alisha Blazevic,

our recipient of the 2019 Silent Advocate award.

Illinois-born

Blazevic is originally from Joliet, Ill. Her parents owned an industrial construction business, and she and her two siblings were expected to pitch in. Blazevic began working for the business by washing trucks and doing receptionist work, starting at 14. Blazevic was raised in a conservative, Catholic family, which perhaps made her a bit more apprehensive about coming out, which she did in the late 1990s. Since then, Blazevic shared that for the most part, she has been treated with kindness and support. Blazevic met her wife,

Blazevic earned a twoyear degree in nursing from Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the College of St. Scholastica.

Blazevic explained that it was “the love of the land” that brought the couple to Duluth, and they now reside in the Lakeside neighborhood. Seibert and Blazevic have been together for 21 years, and married since 2013.

Family life

Blazevic and her wife have three children: Sam, 15; Ben,

Nicki Seibert, who hails from the Twin Cities, through mutual friends.

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD

Alisha Blazevic, winner of the Silent Advocate award.

and Josie, 10. The kids are incredibly active with sports, dance, art and acting. The family enjoys the occasional movie night and going to local rock beaches to pick agates. Their house is also home to four rescue cats.

The couple are very involved in their children’s schools. Seibert serves as the President of the Lester Park Elementary School Foundation, and Blazevic volunteers at the school when she can. And, while Seibert was a stay-at-home mom for 14 years, she now does customer relations work from their home.

Blazevic shared that their neighbors, along with their kids’ classmates and teachers, are very accepting of their nontraditional family. “Duluth is very progressive,” she said. “And, in Lakeside, no one has ever batted an eye. I describe the neighborhood as a ‘suburban utopia.’”

Work

As noted, Blazevic his one of 14 SANE nurses at PAVSA, in addition to her work as an RN at Essentia. She also serves as president of the Minnesota chapter of the International Association of Forensic Nurses.

Her role at PAVSA includes being on-call a lot. Any local emergency room visit where the victim reports a sexual

assault involves a call to PAVSA. The SANE nurse on call then reports to the hospital to meet the victim. A phone call, which occasionally happens in the middle of the night, could send Blazevic to St. Luke’s, Essentia, Lakeview Hospital in Two Harbors, or Essentia Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Superior.

While incredibly rewarding, the job can be emotionally taxing. “I see people hours, to years, after the assault,” Blazevic said. “Patients can be crying and upset, angry, or just quiet. Our job is to meet them where they are, go with the flow, and give them the interaction that they need.”

Each patient exam takes between three and four hours. In conjunction with the exam, SANE nurses collect evidence and take a detailed narrative from the victim.

In addition to providing a 24-hour crisis line, PAVSA offers support advocacy, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, support groups and more. All services are 100 percent free and confidential to victims.

Nomination

Blazevic was nominated by Em Westerlund, a colleague at PAVSA. Westerlund said, “Alisha Blazevic has been a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) since 2007 when the PAVSA SANE program was founded. Since that time, Alisha has provided examinations for hundreds of victims in local emergency rooms. She meets each patient with compassion,

empathy, and validation. These examinations, which can take up to four hours, are the first step in a sexual assault victim’s journey toward healing.

“I nominated Alisha for the Silent Advocate award because so much of her work in the field of forensic medicine occurs out of the public eye. Few in our community are aware that this service is available to victims of sexual assault at no cost. Alisha’s leadership and commitment to the PAVSA SANE program have been invaluable, and are a key reason why the program continues to provide forensic medical exams to victims of sexual assault 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.”

Of this award, Blazevic said, “It’s an absolute honor. It’s touching and very surprising. I don’t do this work to be recognized. I’m passionate about getting help for these people, and this is a great platform to remind people of the services offered at PAVSA.”

She continued, “I’m grateful for the undying support of my wife and family. Nicki has sacrificed just as much as I have. My family stops everything so I can go in when I’m called. So, this award truly belongs to my entire family.” D

The PAVSA crisis line, for victims of sexual violence, is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number is (218) 726-1931.

REEVES

Spirit Award

Faith, family help Cloquet woman soldier through nerve disorder

Crysta Reeves is a woman on the go. In addition to being a wife and mom of three, she is a business owner and a pastor. She is also deeply committed to her volunteer and civic duties.

A good challenge has always caused Reeves to flourish.

“Growing up in a military family, you are always adapting,” she said. “Thankfully, I thrive on both challenges and change.”

Reeves was certainly confronted with an abundance of both when, three years ago, she was diagnosed with atypical trigeminal neuralgia. Often referred to as the “suicide disease” due to its excruciating and unrelenting nerve pain, this diagnosis has changed her life. Yet, Reeves soldiers on, putting one foot in front of the other, providing hope to many.

For her courage and resolve, Reeves is the 2019 recipient of the

Many moves

Reeves’ dad served in the Army, while her mom stayed at home, eventually becoming a childbirth instructor. The family moved around a lot, and Reeves and her brother Samuel experienced life in Germany, Virginia, Washington, D.C., England, and more. “Pick a place, and I’ve lived there,” she said.

She met her husband, Jason Reeves, while in high school in England, where their military families were stationed at the

time. Reeves and her husband attended Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, where they focused on theology.

Call to serve

With family ties in Minnesota, the couple relocated to Cloquet after graduation, and became involved in New Life Community Church in Carlton, where Reeves’ great-uncle, Eldon Gaylen, served as pastor. They first served as youth pastors for a time. Upon Gaylen’s retirement, the Reeveses became co-pastors of this nondenominational Christian church, which serves 50-60 families.

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

12 June | July 19

Crysta Reeves, winner of the Spirit award.

13; Liam, 9; and Garrett, 7. Their children attend school in Esko, where their mother volunteers as the co-chair of the Partners-in-Education (PIE) committee.

Businesses

The couple also own two Pack & Mail Plus stores, in West Duluth and Cloquet, where they employ five people. They purchased the Duluth location in 2010, and the Cloquet location in 2006.

The businesses handle shipping, large format printing, faxing, printing, copying and gift wrapping. The Reeves children are featured in the annual Pack & Mail TV commercials around Christmas, when they sing the lyrics “Oh Pack & Mail” to the tune of “Oh Tannenbaum.”

Reeves also started Northland Cheer Heads, a small business which prints large images of people’s faces, and mounts them on a stick. These signs are often used to encourage an athlete during a sporting event. They are also brought out for parades, or used as a way to include an absent military family member in family gatherings. Jason Reeves also works full-time job at Compass Minerals.

Life is certainly busy for the family. “My house looks like I’m losing a game of Jumanji,” Crysta Reeves said with a laugh.

Life can change in a snap

Three years ago, Reeves began feeling a throbbing, burning sensation in her teeth, which pain medicine wouldn’t touch. After visiting four dentists, who confirmed that her teeth were fine, she was referred to a neurologist, where she was diagnosed as having atypical trigeminal neuralgia.

The enormously painful disease, which currently doesn’t have a cure, is thought to be initially triggered by

Continued on page 14

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dental procedures or facial trauma. The illness begins when the trigeminal nerve, which affects the face, neck, jaw and ear, is activated and continues to flare. Those afflicted with this condition often say it feels like electric shocks stabbing their face. Many of its sufferers are drawn to extreme measures, such as suicide, as it is simply debilitating.

Reeves relies on her faith to get her through the toughest days. “God will use it for good somehow,” she said. “Maybe by building others up, giving me a better understanding, and showing people they aren’t alone.”

Reeves shared that the illness has taught her a lot, and said, “I didn’t know much about chronic conditions before this. It has given me a much greater compassion for others.”

Although she experiences some degree of pain daily, Reeves has found a combination of medications, along with strategically placed Botox treatments, that help a bit. “If the Botox also helps my wrinkles, then I guess that’s a silver lining,” she said with a laugh. Reeves is currently enrolled in a research study at the University of Minnesota, which is actively seeking a cure.

Nomination

Reeves was nominated for the Spirit Award by four people: her husband, Jason Reeves; Karen Pettyjohn, a friend and member of the New Life congregation; Joy Amireault, a friend; and Erin Powers, another friend and fellow member of the PIE group. Together, they said, “Crysta is a marvel. She unselfishly gives all of herself, while dealing with trigeminal neuralgia, an unforgivingly painful chronic illness. She has a gift for guidance, she listens without judgment, and helps those who come to her (to) find their own way to navigate life’s many challenges. We should all aspire to see the good in everyone and every situation like Crysta does.”

Of the award, Reeves said, “It’s incredibly humbling that someone would see something in me to nominate me for this award. The other nominees were also very deserving. It’s an incredible honor.”

Reeves encourages others who are suffering with a chronic illness to keep fighting. “Remember that you’re not alone,” she said. “God sometimes gives us more than we can handle, so we’re required to reach out to others.” D

“God will use it for good somehow, maybe by building others up, giving me a better understanding, and showing people they aren't alone.”

16 June | July 19

Mentor Award

Teaching the teachers, she keeps her eyes on the future

Few people have as much direct influence on future generations as Erin Pepelnjak. Through her role as an instructor at the University of Minnesota Duluth, she teaches future teachers.

Pepelnjak never intended to be a teacher, and in fact had her heart set on becoming a dentist. She started her teaching career at the high school and middle school levels before moving on to the university level.

“College students are more intimidating than teaching 12-year-olds,” she admitted. “But I can say, ‘Wow — I get to influence our profession by influencing future teachers.’”

In addition to indirectly guiding future generations of schoolkids, many of Pepelnjak’s students and advisees consider her a significant influence in their own lives. Thus, Pepelnjak is a natural choice for the Mentor Award — given to a woman who has acted as an experienced and trusted advisor to those around her.

Home on the range

Pepelnjak is originally from Virginia. She and her older sister were raised by two caring parents, and were also loved and supported by an extended family of friends, she said. Their mother was a teacher, and their dad was a “jack of all trades,” who, over the years, worked in teaching, sales, mining, and hospitality.

For her entire life, Pepelnjak told everyone she knew that she wanted to become a dentist. With this goal in mind, she earned a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Montana State University

in Bozeman. While in Montana, she reconnected with her future husband John, who was from her hometown. John was there to earn a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry.

A tough realization

Pepelnjak was later accepted into the Minnesota School of Dentistry. She hated it, she said, and quit after 26 days.

PHOTO BY

to come to in my life.”

From her mom, Pepelnjak had learned that there weren’t enough substitute teachers, and signed up for the program. She was offered a long-term, full-time substitute teaching job at Cook High School.

“It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” she said, referring to the demanding, often overwhelming, pace of a career in education.

Despite the challenges inherent in the profession, Pepelnjak decided she wanted to become a teacher. She went back to school and earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Minnesota.

The couple moved to Duluth in 2004. Pepelnjak taught middle school science for eight years, in Hopkins, Minn., and Duluth. After being laid off from the Duluth School District due to budget cuts, she applied, and was hired, to be an adjunct instructor at UMD.

At first, she worked part-time, supervising student teachers. Today, she teaches future secondary school teachers, with a focus on subjects like assessment practices, teaching methods, science education, lesson planning and more. She has been an instructor at UMD for eight years. Her husband, John, is a chiropractor in Two Harbors.

Her own mentors

While today, Pepelnjak is a mentor to many, she has a few special mentors in her own life. First: her mom, dad, and sister.

“My parents and my sister all have an admirable work ethic, and are selfless when it comes to caring for others,” Pepelnjak said. “They have tons of heart. They also go out of their way to create special memories for our family every chance they get.”

Pepelnjak’s “career mentor” is Dr. Julia Williams, a professor at UMD, who is also a published author. “Dr. Williams tapped me to teach my first class,” Pepelnjak said. “She said, ‘you can do this.’ I have picked up so many pearls of wisdom from her on teaching, parenting, and life. When she speaks, I listen.”

Family and other interests

The Pepelnjaks have two children: Isla, 13; and Doca, 10. They also have an Australian cattle dog named Ollie. Both Erin and John’s parents have family cabins, and the entire family enjoys skiing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

In her free time, Pepelnjak likes to hike, ski and bake. She also likes to run; Isla and Erin plan to run the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon together this summer.

Civic engagement is another priority for her. Pepelnjak served for four years on the Lester Park Elementary School

Foundation, where she helped with fundraising efforts.

Nomination

Pepelnjak was nominated for the Mentor Award by two of her former students and advisees, Courtney Anderson and Orianna Scherer. Together, they said, “Erin is a bright and shining star at UMD. She is an outstanding teacher who is compassionate and dedicated to each of her students’ achievements. She has inspired me to strive to be the best science teacher I can be.”

They continued, “Erin was the best mentor and advocate I have ever had, and she made a tremendous difference in my education. I have no doubt that 20 years from now, if you ask many young scientists in the Duluth and Twin Cities areas which science teacher inspired them in school, the roots of that teacher may be traced back to Erin Pepelnjak’s incredible work in the education department at UMD.”

Of the award, Pepelnjak said, “It’s great to be recognized for doing what you love. And, when it’s your students saying you made a difference … well, that’s why we do what we do.” D

18 June | July 19

Rosie Award

From Iron Range to Harvard, advocate is getting things done

From her home on the Iron Range, Kimberly Stokes has done many remarkable things in her life. She has served on the Virginia School Board, and worked for the offices of Congressman Jim Oberstar and Senator Paul Wellstone.

She was named an “Angel of Adoption” by the United States Congress to honor her advocacy for international adoption. She ran for Lieutenant Governor for the state of Minnesota. Stokes, a Harvard graduate, is a wife and mother of four, and works as a vice president for a bank.

Kimberly Stokes is the recipient of the 2019 Rosie Award, honoring Rosie the Riveter, a feminist icon. This award is presented to a woman we all know who works hard to get stuff done. Stokes, a true powerhouse of a woman, utilizes all available

resources in order to benefit everything, and everyone, around her.

Iron Ranger Stokes, who is originally from Hibbing, currently lives in Britt, north of Virginia.

“I had an idyllic childhood in many ways,” she said. “There were 150 kids within one to two blocks in my neighborhood, and we went out to play from morning until dinner time.”

Stokes’ father was killed in an industrial accident when she was just 11. Eventually, her mother remarried, and the family went from four children to a blended family of eight.

Stokes said her mother taught her several important lessons as a child.

“She gave me a little card that says, ‘I know you can do it,’” Stokes said. “I still keep it in my office to this day. She also taught us how to handle defeat with grace. If you fail, you get up and do it again.”

College years

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Kimberly Stokes, winner of the Rosie Award.

college, Stokes worked as an intern for the chair of health and human services for the House of Representatives at the Minnesota State Capitol. She graduated with a degree in political science.

Meet cute

Stokes worked in the office of the Senate Finance Committee, then moved on to work for Mark Dayton’s first U.S. Senate campaign. It was there that she met her future husband Gary Cerkvenik in an unusual way.

“Someone from Congressman Oberstar’s office called Mark Dayton’s office, and I answered the phone,” she said. “The man had a very strong Iron Range accent, and I had to ask him to spell what he was saying.”

After many subsequent calls, the two struck up a friendly, professional relationship. Eventually Stokes sent her sister to check him out. Her sister approved, and the two began dating.

“He was interesting, and we both loved politics,” Stokes said of Cerkvenik.

They were married in 1986.

Harvard graduate

Stokes eventually got a job working for Congressman Oberstar’s office, where Cerkvenik worked. He left soon after to serve a term as St. Louis County Commissioner.

Stokes later took a job at US Bank. “I never thought of going into banking, but I really liked it,” she said. “It was orderly, but you could also be creative with the different things you can do in the community.”

Stokes took a leave of absence from the bank when she received the Bush Fellowship to attend Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. After a one-year program, she

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earned a master’s degree in public administration.

Children

Around this time, the couple were thinking about starting a family. Adoption was close to Stokes’ heart, and they began the process of international adoption.

“I had always wanted to adopt as a little girl,” Stokes said. “I came from a blended family, so I thought, ‘why not?’”

Upon returning to Minnesota, Stokes was hired to run the northern Minnesota

The couple later adopted another child, Maria, from Colombia, and also have two biological children, Sam and Sophie. The kids are all grown up, and today, Stokes and Cerkvenik also relish the role of being grandparents to Eli’s son, Oliver, who is 3.

Work, boards, and other duties

Today, Stokes works as vice president of compliance and internal audit for American Bank, which has thirteen branches and administrative offices across the

“Receiving this award validates volunteerism, and the work that women have always done in the background.”

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Stokes has also served on the Virginia School Board. She has participated in numerous other volunteer and community efforts along the way. Stokes’ political resume also includes a 1994 bid for lieutenant governor, alongside running mate Tony Bouza.

When she isn’t working, Stokes enjoys canoeing, walking, and the family pontoon. She belongs to two book clubs and an investment club, and she and Gary parch wild rice to give away as gifts.

Nomination

Stokes was nominated for the Rosie Award by her husband. From his nomination, Cerkvenik shared, “Kimberly has an exceptional, but quiet, record of achievement and involvement in northern Minnesota. Kimberly is a gift to the community and quietly gets things done, including everything from building a playground to solving mental health issues; from helping people adopt children, to working in the highest levels of U.S. government.”

“I was very surprised to be nominated, and especially by my husband,” Stokes said. “Receiving this award validates volunteerism, and the work that women have always done in the background.”

Start with your own community

Stokes’ list of accomplishments is truly remarkable, yet she remains humble. “I feel so grateful for everything that’s been given to me,” she said. “That’s why I feel I have to give back.”

Stokes’ stresses that there is plenty of work to do — right in our own communities.

“I used to want to change the world,” she said. “But now, I know that serving my community and living a full life is enough. You can be a big fish in a small pond, and really get things done.” D

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Volunteer chooses joy through children’s food program

By Andrea Busche

After the untimely death of her beloved husband, Patrick, in 2012, Laura Plys wanted to honor his memory. She remembered that while he endured grueling cancer treatments, Patrick had bravely scribbled, “I choose joy” on a notepad after losing the ability to speak. Joy became a major theme in the Plys household after that, and has shaped the entirety of Laura’s future.

Plys established Project Joy, a fundraising event for Second Harvest Food Bank’s backpack program, seven years ago. The program raises awareness for childhood hunger and sends underprivileged children home on Friday afternoons with backpacks full of food to last throughout the weekend.

Plys has made Project Joy a huge focus in her life. In turn,

Project Joy has made huge strides toward addressing childhood hunger in our region. Since its founding, 255,325 meals have been served to children in need.

For her efforts, Plys is the recipient of the 2019 Most Engaged Volunteer Award. This special honor is given to the woman who goes above and beyond, working tirelessly in the region for the good of us all.

Family focus

Plys, who was raised in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood, has always been exceptionally close to her family. To this day, her parents live only two miles away,

and she visits them daily. Her children and grandchildren also live nearby.

Plys met her husband as a teenager. The two raised a family of five children: Christopher, Anna, Daniel, Noah and Jonah. She now has three grandchildren, with another on the way. Patrick founded a business, Plys Superior Consulting, which remains family-owned, and is operated by their son, Christopher, and his fiancée.

Another cause Plys is passionate about is individuals with special needs. Plys’ son Jonah, who is now 19, was born with Down syndrome. In an effort

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Laura Plys, winner of the Most Engaged Volunteer.

to connect with other families impacted by the condition, Laura, along with several others, co-founded Duluth’s Buddy Walk, which was held in Duluth for 10 years.

Project Joy

Childhood hunger is a cause that Plys feels she is called to address. She shared just how common it is, right here in our community. “People don’t think of childhood hunger as happening in the city of Duluth, but it’s rampant,” she said. Many children leave school on Friday afternoons, and don’t have a single bite of food until they return to school on Monday, she said.

Project Joy, now a joint partnership with the Duluth Curling Club’s House of Hearts Charity Bonspiel, transports backpacks containing easy-to-open, easy-to-prepare foods to elementary school students within six Northland counties. Many hungry children and struggling families are grateful for the program; even the picky kids. “I’ve heard the kids say, ‘I’d rather have something I don’t like than nothing at all,’” Plys said.

Plys hopes to someday expand Project Joy to include a program for middle- and high-school students. “We’ve tried food pantries in high schools, but kids didn’t want to use it because of the stigma,” she said. “So, we’re trying to figure out a way to help the older kids; maybe through the use of gift cards.”

Creative gifts

In addition to her work with Project Joy, Plys is a writer and a photographer. She blogs about inspiring events at iwillchoosejoy.wordpress.com. And her photography business, Through Laura’s Lens, shoots about twelve weddings per year, along with the occasional graduation photo.

Recently, Laura’s work was featured in a story published by the Grand Rapids Press. “I was taking photos of a wedding in Canal Park, and the Paul Tregurtha ship was coming through right when the groom ‘dipped’ the bride,” she said. “The photo went viral, and has been seen all over the world.”

When she isn’t busy working on Project Joy, writing, or taking photos, Plys enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids. She has plans to run Grandma’s Half Marathon. And she sees her boyfriend of five years, who lives in Mesa, Ariz., as often as she can.

Most Engaged Volunteer

Plys was nominated for this award by Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank’s Executive Director, Shaye Moris, who expounded on her endorsement of Plys. “Why is Laura Plys deserving of this award? Her spirit, energy, and

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Purveyor

ROSS

Leadership Award

Business leader embraces opportunity to mentor others

As a young woman not too far out of college, Suzanne Ross was hired to work in the personnel department at Maurices. She wasn’t sure how long she’d remain with the company, let alone how long she’d live in Duluth.

Today, 29 years later, Ross has planted deep roots — both in our community, and at Ascena — the parent company to Maurices. She has worked hard to reach the very top tiers of her industry.

Her current title is executive vice president of Ascena HR & Talent Centers of Excellence. In addition to climbing the corporate ladder, Ross has also served on many local boards and committees, regularly volunteers her time, and has a happy home and family life to boot.

Ross is an excellent example of leadership — at work, in the community and at home. As

such, she is the recipient of the Leadership Award, presented to a woman who represents outstanding achievement in their field of endeavor.

Twin Cities transplant

Ross grew up in Minneapolis, the eldest of three girls. Her parents both worked as teachers. “I had a very idyllic, beautiful childhood,” Ross said.

She moved to Duluth in the 1980s to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth. It was here that she met her husband, Jamey Ross. The Rosses eventually moved to South Dakota so Jamey could attend law school. Suzanne earned her undergraduate degree

in journalism from the University of South Dakota.

Post-college, the couple moved back to Duluth, and Jamey got a job as the Carlton County attorney, where he remained until his retirement. Suzanne got a job in the admissions department at UMD, where she remained for the next few years.

A special mentor

PHOTO BY DAVID BALLARD PHOTOGRAPHY

24 June | July 19

Suzanne Ross, winner of the Leadership award.

While still a young woman, Lundstrom became ill with leukemia. Before she died, Lundstrom told her supervisor that Ross should be selected to succeed her, due to Ross’ hard work and dedication. Leadership agreed, and Ross was promoted. It was just one of several upward leaps within the company.

To this day, Ross remains close with Lundstrom’s widower and two children. She’ll always be grateful for Lundstrom’s close friendship and career guidance. “She was an amazing individual,” Ross said.

Leadership in action

Over the years, Ross has held a variety of roles in human resources for Maurices and Ascena. In her current role, Ross oversees the areas of talent acquisition and talent strategy.

Continued on page 26

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Ross shared that Ascena is a company devoted to the support and promotion of women; 97% of the company’s employees are women, and 65% of their VPs are women. The board of directors is split 50-50 between men and women, and there is a female lead director.

As Lundstrom did with Ross, Ross has helped numerous employees, particularly women, advance their careers along the way. “There are many mentor programs at Ascena, and I’ve been really blessed to work with some amazing people,” Ross said. “I’ve been able to learn from them, and they’ve learned from me. That’s been a gift.”

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Community work

Ross has been involved in many local civic organizations over the years. She is the current trustee for the College of St. Scholastica and previously served as head of their advancement committee.

She was a longtime member of the Greater Downtown Council, and once served as its president. She is also a former board member for the Duluth Airport Authority. Ross currently serves on the UMD School of Business’ advisory board.

Ross does a lot of traveling for her career, and one of the places she visits most often is Ohio, where Ascena has a strong presence. During her travels, Ross volunteers at the Mid-Ohio food bank. She also volunteers for the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation.

Family life

The Rosses have three children: James, 25; Meagan, 23; and Oliver, 17. They also have a 2-year-old dalmatian named Fudge. The family resides in east Duluth.

Jamey and Sue have been married for 33 years. They celebrated their 30th anniversary with a big adventure — the couple hiked 30 miles of the Pacific Coast Trail.

When she’s not working, Ross enjoys walking, hiking, golfing and catching up on the “Real Housewives” TV show. “It’s my guilty pleasure,” Ross said.

While her husband is technically retired, he stays busy by flipping houses and maintaining rental properties. Ross herself isn’t ready to retire just yet, but has big plans when she does. “I want to do more to focus on climate change, and help keep our earth a safe place,” Ross said. “I also want to do more volunteer work.”

Nomination

Ross was nominated for the Leadership Award by her husband. Of his wife, Jamey said, “Suzanne has become an intricate member of the Ascena Retail Group, spending a considerable amount of her time in New York’s fashion garment section. She has shown and proven what a woman can do in the major fashion industry, by becoming a senior executive with values and training learned and honed in humble Duluth, Minnesota. A true Rosie success story!”

Ross is pleased and grateful to receive this award. “I am touched that my husband put the nomination out there,” she said.

The night of the ceremony was made especially memorable by sharing it with friends. “Maurices bought a table at the ceremony, and Jamey and I got to sit with three of my colleagues of over 25 years and their husbands,” Ross said. “To share the night with them was really special.” D

compassion serve as an inspiration and motivation for others in our region,” Moris said. “What started as an idea to honor her husband Patrick’s legacy has grown to become a movement I don’t think she could have imagined.”

In addition to receiving the 2019 Most Engaged Volunteer Award, Plys was honored in 2012 with the Duluth Woman of the Year Award. She also received the honorary Gene Boysen Volunteer of the Year Award in 2015. And she was featured in The Woman Today magazine in 2015.

Plys is grateful to be recognized for her efforts. “It means a lot,” she said of this award. “It gives me a platform to talk about Project Joy, House of Hearts and childhood hunger. It can help people understand the need in our community.”

But Plys insists that her work is a team effort. “This award may have my name on it, but so many people are involved in this work along with me.”

If you’re called to help

Plys shared that the best way to contribute to the Project Joy backpack program is either through the donation of time or a financial gift. Volunteers are always needed to help assemble the backpacks, and cash gifts are incredibly useful and appreciated; Second Harvest is able to turn a $1 cash donation into $10 worth of food for the needy. Please contact Second Harvest to learn more. D

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“What started as an idea to honor her husband Patrick’s legacy has grown to become a movement I don’t think she could have imagined.”

Calling all Rosies

St. Louis County Historical Society actively recruiting local veterans’ stories

By Andrea Busche

March

21 commemorated the third annual Rosie the Riveter Day. This nationally recognized event celebrates the contributions made by thousands of courageous American women during World War II.

The spirit of the Rosies is also being recognized at the local level. The stories of six outstanding women selected for embodying the tenacious spirit of Rosie the Riveter are profiled in this very issue of The Woman Today.

Additionally, the St. Louis County Historical Society is working hard to honor these brave women. They recently announced an initiative to seek out the stories of female veterans, and those who made other important contributions during WWII.

The search

Pippi Mayfield works at the St. Louis County Historical Society as its Veterans Memorial Hall Program Assistant. She is also the Oral History Program Coordinator. Mayfield has been employed with the Historical Society, which is based out

Mayfield shared that while this is the Historical Society has been collecting veterans’ stories for decades. The specific search for women’s stories has no end date, and will ultimately result in a collection to be shared with the public. Mayfield

explained a bit about the search.

“Our callout to women is threefold, really — to help celebrate the contributions made by thousands of American women during World War II, to mark Women’s History Month, and to add to the St. Louis County Historical Society’s collection of stories. While I would absolutely love to have a woman who went to work during WWII come forward to share her story, our main goal is to get women veterans in general interested in having their stories recorded.”

Rosies – Across the nation and in our backyard Mayfield provided some important context and background on these women known as the “Rosies.”

“By historical standards, the Rosies are the ones who went to work during WWII while the men were off fighting the war,” she said. “Of course, they have always been portrayed as factory and industrial workers, but they actually filled many, many working roles. It was a huge social movement for women – then and since.”

“For us on a local level, if you look at our collection of stories, we are lacking in women veterans’ stories. Granted, many, many of the stories we have collected are from the Vietnam era and before, so there weren’t women serving in the military, but we do have some stories from nurses who served. They are just as amazing to read.”

“So, while we focus on collecting veterans’ stories, we also welcome stories from women closely involved with war, like the Rosies. I think everyone can agree on the importance of the Rosies and what they did for women being at least the start of equality.”

Oral histories

Any Rosies who are located will be interviewed the same way the Historical Society interviews any veteran – as a recorded oral history. Mayfield does the work of locating a trained volunteer to meet one-on-one with the veteran to audio-record their story.

The two sit and chat, and the Historical Society asks them to share stories about growing up, including: how and why

they got into the military, where and when they served, any stories that stick out to them about their time in the military, and what they have done since leaving the military.

Once the stories are recorded, Mayfield sends the recordings to a transcriptionist who types up the conversations. Mayfield edits the conversations to clean up any errors and then sends a copy of the transcript to the veteran to check spelling and ensure accuracy.

Once the veteran approves the transcript, the Historical Society files a copy in the Albert J. Amatuzio Research Center, located at the Historical Society, and it becomes a part of their collection. If given permission, they also post a transcript of the interview on their Veterans Hall website (vets-hall.org) for the public to view. The public, for generations to come, can then search for veterans either online or in the research center.

“I’ve heard some really great stories in just the two years I’ve been a part of this program,” Mayfield said. “Some guys don’t think their story is that important or interesting, but I’m usually blown away by them. It’s certainly a humbling and gratifying experience to record these stories.”

The collections – online and in person

As previously noted, the Historical Society posts veterans’ stories online at vets-hall.org. There, the public can search for stories either by the conflict or the veteran’s last name.

They also maintain the Albert J. Amatuzio Research Center, which houses the physical files. If anyone is interested in researching a veteran, it’s often more worthwhile to visit the research center. More than likely, the Historical Society has more information on the veteran in the physical file than they do online.

Some veterans have pictures — though the Historical Society tries to include these online as well — while some have books, some have newspaper clippings, some have uniforms, and still others have an assortment of unique items associated with their time in the military. If you are interested in a tour, you are asked to contact the historical society at 218-733-7580 prior to your visit, to ensure a representative is around to help with your search.

Finally getting their due respect

Many years after WWII, it is important that these women continue to be acknowledged for their bravery and service. “Rosie is an historic icon that most people have heard of,” Mayfield said. “I would hope that shows the importance of all hard-working women. Rosies from the WWII era have amazing stories that deserve to be heard – for generations to come.” D

For further information, please visit vets-hall.org. Or to share your Rosie story, please contact Pippi Mayfield at pippi@thehistorypeople.org.

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Women as a Driving Force Rosie Awards

Megan Keller, Duluth Media Group advertising director, opens the 2019 Rosie Awards.

Photo by David Ballard Photography

3rd Annual Rosie Awards.

Photo by Michelle Truax

3rd Annual Rosie Awards

Deb Otto speaks at the 2019 Rosie Awards at the Greysolon Plaza.

Photo by David Ballard Photography

Essentia Health nurse serves Grandma’s Marathon

ANGIE BROWN VOLUNTEERS AS CHIEF MEDICAL CAPTAIN AND MEDICAL VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

By Connie Wirta

Medical care is just steps away for runners competing in Grandma’s Marathon and the Gary Bjorklund Half-marathon, thanks to Angie Brown and her team of medical volunteers.

Angie makes sure her team is ready for anything, from a blister to a heart attack. Her experience as a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center serves her well when more than 15,000 runners are under the team’s care on race day.

For five years, Angie has served as the marathon’s chief medical captain and medical volunteer coordinator. She and the race’s medical director, Dr. Ben Nelson, see their duties stretching from the starting line in Two Harbors to beyond the finish line in Duluth’s Canal Park.

As volunteer coordinator, Angie recruits and organizes medical volunteers from across the Northland who staff 12 first aid stations and four medical tents along the 26.2mile race course along with a large medical tent in Canal Park. The team includes physicians, nurses, certified athletic trainers, physical therapists, paramedics, medics and emergency medical technicians.

As medical captain, Angie orders all the medical supplies and equipment, sets up the medical stations and coordinates care on race day.

“Angie has a deep dedication to

Essentia Health Registered Nurse Angie Brown volunteers as chief medical captain and medical volunteer coordinator for Grandma’s Marathon.

Grandma’s Marathon,” says Dr. Nelson, a sports medicine physician at the Essentia Health-Duluth Clinic. “She donates her vacation to inventory and stock our medical storage area. She responds to hundreds of emails every year. Only someone as dedicated as Angie could attend to all the details she does.”

The biggest challenge is never knowing how many runners will seek care, or what kind of care they’ll need, Angie explains. Weather plays a big factor. In 2017, when the thermometer hit 82 degrees, the medical team treated 559 runners. Last year’s cooler weather, with a high of just 57 degrees, brought in 147 runners.

Angie was recruited as a marathon volunteer 14 years ago by another Emergency Department nurse, Herb Dillon. He still volunteers but trained her to be the medical captain and volunteer coordinator. Her right-hand person is Christine Perry, who works as a health unit coordinator in Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center’s Surgery Unit.

“Herb ran the medical tent like a MASH unit,” Angie says. “We’ve brought in more technology and I think runners are doing a better job training for the marathon. Most of our patients are discharged from the tent because they’re young and healthy.”

The Canal Park tent has 60 cots and most runners escorted from the finish line need to simply rest and recover. But some are critically ill and need emergency medications or treatments. At any time, runners are vomiting, lying in ice baths, shivering under blankets, completely confused and disoriented or unable to walk on broken bones, Dr. Nelson says. “We depend on our nurses and physicians to recognize threatening signs and begin treatment when necessary,” he says. Runners who critically ill or not responding to basic treatments are transported to local emergency departments.

“It’s like we take the Emergency Room and move it into a canvas tent. It’s controlled chaos,” Angie says. “Everyone has a job, and everyone knows what that job is and has it covered. Overall, I’m just coordinating the flow of the day, just like we do in the ER.”

“Working in the Emergency Department has conditioned Angie to work under intense conditions. She can handle adversity and long days,” Dr. Nelson says. “Angie, like other ED providers, can think clearly and solve problems under pressure.”

Angie says the volunteers share a strong sense of camaraderie, with many returning year after year. It also has become a family affair. Angie has recruited her husband,

two teenage daughters, sister, mother, mother-in-law, father, father-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces and nephews to help with various duties.

“The race would not happen without volunteers,” Angie says. “It’s amazing how the community comes together, not only as medical volunteers. It’s the people at the water stations and the people cheering the runners on. We have a strong sense of community and that really shows on race day. Regardless of our backgrounds, we’re here to support the runners.”

Countless hours spent preparing for the race and the promise of another long day don’t deter Angie.

“I come down to Canal Park around 4:30 or 5 in the morning on race day and I still get butterflies,” Angie says. “My adrenaline gets pumping. I stand under the finish line and I say ‘OK. It’s going to be a good day.’” D

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

Sieh

Christine Perry (left) and Angie Brown coordinate medical volunteers and care for Grandma’s Marathon.

We’re bullish on your goals

By Anne Holy and Jade Swanson

Justas in building a home, building a stable and sound financial world starts from the ground up.

The first thing you need is a solid base — a savings account to help you get through the unexpected things that come up. So if your furnace or car breaks down or you have an unexpected medical bill, etc., you will have a resource to use instead of having to bring out that credit card. The best way to build up a savings account is to put something in that savings account every month — roughly about 1/12 of what you think you will need on an annual basis.

Next you need to seriously start tackling any debt you have above and beyond a mortgage, student loans or car payment — we’ll talk about these in a minute. If you have credit card debt or debt other than the previously three mentioned types of loans — you are probably spending more than your income every month. So that means you need to get serious about a budget — yes, the dreaded B word. If you have credit card debt that keeps growing, taking a serious look at your spending habits will really make life easier in the long run. So sit down and make a list of all the bills you need to pay every month. These

Building a sound financial world

Take these financial steps to peace of mind

include the rent or mortgage, insurance payments, car payments, utility bills, etc. — everything that needs to get paid every month to keep you in your home and keep the heat on and the car running. These expenses do not include things like manicures or eating out. We’ll talk about those in a minute. So once you have the list of all the required bills, add in the amount you need to put in savings every month for those unexpected things. Then take a look at your credit card debt and calculate how much you need to pay on those every month to get them paid off; we suggest in five years or less. Pay the cards with the highest rate interest first. So all of these three categories need to be in your monthly budget — required bills, savings and credit card payments. And you need to set aside money for these from every paycheck. Over time you will also want to add in a larger cushion to savings for the big unexpected events like the loss of a job.

Now back to the mortgage, student loans and the car payment. The minimum goal on the mortgage is to get it paid off before you retire. Shoot for a 10-15 year paydown on student loans unless the interest rate is above 6% — then add it to those credit card payments and get it done, if possible, in five years or less. Car loans are usually for four to six years and, depending on your credit, should have a fairly low interest rate, so pay those down over the life of the loan.

Now you will need to consider any risks that could seriously run your budget and lifestyle off the rails such as the death of a spouse or partner. So review your life insurance needs and add the cost of any coverage in to your budget.

After this, you will want to add in

what is needed for gas, groceries, etc., every month. And if there is extra after that, then you need to get serious about saving for retirement. If at all possible, put enough in your retirement plan at work to get any match that is offered. Then sit down with a financial advisor to see what else you need to be doing to meet your retirement goals. Once all of these pieces are in place, you can start adding in those manicures, nights out etc., into your budget. In the meantime, don’t deprive yourself of everything, but be practical about how you spend your money. Having a budget that is in control will give you a feeling of empowerment and peace of mind.

I know this sounds like a lot to consider, but once you get the pieces in place, it will feel really, really good to have your budget and retirement plan in control and on track. A financial advisor can walk you through all of these steps and get you on the road to a sound financial future. So plan carefully and enjoy the confidence that comes with having a sound financial plan. D

Anne Holy is a Financial Advisor, Jade Swanson an Advisor Associate, for Waddell & Reed, Inc.

This article is meant to be general in nature and should not be construed as advice or a recommendation related to your personal situation. Waddell & Reed does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with a professional provide to making any financial related decisions. The article is provided by Anne Holy, Financial Advisor and Jade Swanson, Financial Advisor with Waddell & Reed. They can be reached at 218-727-1508. Waddell & Reed, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC.

Jade Swanson and Anne Holy of Waddell & Reed, Inc.

Preventing Strokes With The Watchman Device

By Claire Kiger

Afterwaking up in a hospital bed surrounded by doctors, Two Harbors native Patty Olson was told that she was going to need a pacemaker. “I thought I was having a nightmare,” said Patty. “I had absolutely no idea that I had any heart issues at all.” She had just undergone surgery to treat a bleeding stomach ulcer, and during the operation, doctors noticed her heart was in atrial fibrillation (AFib).

AFib is when the heart has an irregular heartbeat. This can complicate blood flow in the heart’s chambers and puts a person at a higher risk for having a stroke. A pacemaker can help regulate the heartbeat of a person with AFib, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk of stroke.

Blood thinners are typically prescribed to prevent blood clots from forming in people who have AFib. However, this anticoagulant therapy is not tolerated by everyone; this includes those who are older or have more than one chronic disease or condition. Until recently, this group of people was left without any treatment options and had to live with an increased risk of stroke.

Patty suddenly found herself in this position. Due to her bleeding ulcer, taking blood thinners would have been too dangerous. “My mother died of a stroke,” said Patty. “I was terrified that I would end up like my mom.”

Fortunately, St. Luke’s offers a new option to help protect people like Patty.

AFib and the risk of blood clots

The heart is made up of two side-by-side pumps. The right pump sends blood to the lungs to be oxygenated, and the left pump delivers this oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Each pump is made of two chambers. The upper chambers are called atria, and the bottom chambers are ventricles.

When a heart is in AFib, the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly. A wide range of factors can contribute to this condition including age, heart attack, high blood pressure or an overactive thyroid gland. Blood isn’t moved as effectively into the ventricles, and blood clots are more likely to form.

These blood clots tend to form in the left atrial appendage (LAA), a small pouch in the muscle wall of the left atrium.

“When atrial fibrillation happens, the left atrial

FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T TAKE BLOOD THINNERS AND ARE AT RISK OF HAVING A STROKE, ST. LUKE’S NOW OFFERS AN ALTERNATIVE

Dr. Som and Patty at St. Luke’s. (St. Luke's photo)

appendage behaves more like a bag instead of a pump. Blood pools here and can become stagnant. This can lead to clots that may eventually break free and cause a stroke,” explained Dr. Porur Somasundaram (known to his patients as Dr. Som), an electrophysiologist with St. Luke’s Regional Heart & Vascular Center. “Before there was no alternative to blood thinners. Now there is one.”

The Watchman device

During a minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Som goes up through a vein to place a small device, known as the Watchman device, in the opening of the left atrial appendage (LAA). Eventually tissue grows over the opening to permanently seal off the small pouch. This way, no blood can get in to pool, so the chance of blood clots forming is significantly reduced. The LAA is a very small part of the left atrium, and sealing it off does not compromise any of the heart’s functions.

“The Watchman essentially acts like a plug,” said Dr. Som. “It’s a very straightforward procedure. At St. Luke’s we’ve done 42 cases in the past year and all of these patients, besides two, went home the next day.”

This new option offers peace of mind to those who are at risk for stroke, like Patty.

“All I knew was that I wanted to be around,” she said. “My husband is 96 and as spry as can be. We have such a good life. I didn’t want to end up having a stroke, and because of the Watchman procedure I don’t have to worry about that anymore.”

has to be available at one single place,” he said. “This way their care is not fragmented. We can help each individual as a whole.”

If you or someone you know is in a similar situation to Patty, the Watchman procedure may be able to offer protection from the risk of strokes. Talk to your primary care provider or your cardiologist about this option. For more about St. Luke’s Regional Heart & Vascular Center, visit slhduluth.com/heart. D

Providing

what

you need at St. Luke’s

Dr. Som performed Patty’s Watchman procedure, and she was able to go home the next day, feeling thankful for the team that cared for her at St. Luke’s. “They just make me confident,” said Patty. “They are such good doctors.”

Dr. Som’s vision is to continue offering specialized procedures like the Watchman in order to provide the most comprehensive care possible. “I strongly believe that everything my patients need

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Arts & Events Calendar

Nature Play Group

Mondays June-August

Join us for this weekly drop-in program that meets Mondays at 10:00 am in the Hartley Nature Playscape. It is facilitated by a Hartley educator with a welcoming circle, then is openly structured to allow children to explore within the elements (including water) as they choose. (Cancels only for extreme weather). Runs 10-11:30 am, June through August. $2 per child. 3001 Woodland Ave.

Chester Creek Concert Series

Tuesdays June-August

This year’s free outdoor concert series at Chester Bowl includes a mix of country, Celtic, jazz and Americana. Chester Creek Concert Series shows are at 7 p.m.-8:30 (until August, when they start at 6:30 p.m.) on Tuesday evenings June 11-Aug. 13 at the park, 1801 E. Skyline Parkway.

Schedule

June 11: Whiskey Trail (country)

June 18: Eira (traditional Celtic)

June 25: Boats & Bridges (heartland rock)

July 2: The Most Wanted (rock, pop, country cover band)

July 9: The Gentlemen’s Anti-Temperance League (swing jazz)

July 16: Taj Weekes & Adowa (reggae)

July 23: Tacky Annie (alt pop)

July 30 The Hillions (original country rock)

Aug. 6: Big Waves and Bonfires (Americana, folk)

Aug. 13: Honest Maude (Americana, alt)

John Prine

June 1

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.

Songwriters Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominee John Prine returns to Duluth with a new album, “The Tree of Forgiveness,” which came out earlier this year and has created a lot of buzz. $61.50-$101.50. 8 p.m. DECC Symphony Hall.

Intersections art show

June 1-30

A new exhibition derived from the museum collection, featuring artworks by 18 Minnesota-based Native artists, including George Morrison, Patrick Desjarlait, Carl Gawboy, Dyani White Hawk, and Andrea Carlson. Free and open to the public. Tweed Museum of Art, 1201 Ordean Court. d.umn. edu/tma/exhibitions.html

“Sylvia”

June 7-22

Empty nesters Greg and Kate have moved back to Manhattan after 22 years in the suburbs. Greg finds Sylvia, a street-smart lab/poodle mix, and brings her home. She promptly becomes a bone of contention between Greg and Kate, testing their marriage to hilarious and touching effect. Renegade Theater, Zeitgeist, 222 E. Superior St. 7:30 p.m. Matinees at 9 p.m. $20 general admission, $16 seniors and students. Zeitgeistarts.com

Nice Girls of the North marketplace

June 8, July 13

Free coffee, cookies and door prizes, lively music and a friendly atmosphere. Browse a

collection of handcrafted clothing and bags, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, photography, personal care products, baby items and much more. Lakeside Lester Park Community Center (the former Lakeside Library), 106 N. 54th Ave. East in Duluth. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. nicegirlsofthenorth.com

“The Elixir of Love”

June 14, 16

LOON presents Donizetti’s comic opera L’elisir d’amore, a frothy concoction of hummable melodies, colorful characters, true love, and a happy ending. Tickets $37-57. Students $12 with ID. Marshall Performing Arts Center, UMD. 7:30 p.m. 1215 Ordean Ct. loonopera. org

Steam-powered train excursion

June 14-15

Experience the power of steam, with locomotive #28 leading the charge while you ride behind this historic engine. This train takes you to Two Harbors and back to Duluth. 10 a.m. northshorescenicrailroad.org

Father’s Day Super Hero Party

June 16

Have you dreamed of being a super hero? Put on your superhero cape and get to the zoo faster than a speeding bullet! We will be hosting superhero training Father’s Day at the zoo all day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lake Superior Zoo, 7210 Fremont St. lszooduluth. org.

Grandma’s Marathon

June 20-22

Enjoy several days of activities until the big race on Saturday, June 22. Fitness Expo at the DECC on Thursday and Friday, spaghetti dinner and Whipper Snapper Races on Friday at Bayfront Festival Park. Then get up early to line the racecourse on Saturday to cheer on everyone from elite runners to your neighbor. More information at grandmasmarathon.com.

Scandinavian Dinner & Windmill Tours

June 21-22

The Old-Brule Heritage Society is sponsoring its annual Midsummer Scandinavian Dinner and tours of the Davidson Windmill and Eskolin Log House. Call 715-398-5493 or visit oldbrule.org for more information.

Tours: Friday, June 21, 3-5 p.m. and Saturday, June 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 7890 Old Highway 13, South Range. Free-will donations support preservation of the historical site, which includes a Davidson Windmill and the Eskolin house, railroad depot and sauna to be added this summer.

Dinner: June 22, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3196 Poplar River Road, Poplar, Wis. Mojakka, Swedish rice pudding, Norwegian fruit soup and more. $10 adults; $5 ages 6-12; 5 and younger free.

“Singin’ in the Rain Jr.”

June 28-30

Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.

Actors ages 8-13 take the stage for this summer intensive camp performance. In silent movies, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont are a hot item, but behind the scenes, things aren’t always as they appear on the big screen! Meanwhile, Lina’s squeaky voice might be the end of her career in “talking pictures” without the help of a talented young actress to do the talking and singing for her. Tickets $15-$17. 506 W. Michigan St. Call 218-733-7555 or visit duluthplayhouse.org. Coming up in August: Teens take the stage for “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Xanadu,” Aug. 8-18.

CHUM Rhubarb Festival

June 29

The annual CHUM Rhubarb Festival is a day for all ages. This free event offer treats, food and crafts for sale, contests, music and more. Booths offer activities including arts and crafts for children of all ages, including a climbing wall and obstacle course. 1100 Block of London Road in Duluth. Starts at 9 a.m. Event is on Facebook.

Park Point Art Fair

June 29-30

An iconic community event since 1970, enjoy a free weekend of original art and fine craft in a stunning setting near the Lake Superior Beach. Meet 120 artists, shop gallery quality works, enjoy music, food, demos and hands-

Arts & Events Calendar

on activities. Held outside on Park Point in Duluth. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. parkpointartfair.org

Fourth Fest

July 4

Visit Bayfront Festival Park for an Independence Day celebration. Music and food on site. Free. Gates open at 4 p.m. Fireworks at 10:10 p.m.

Bayfront Country Jam

July 5

An outdoor festival that showcases some of the biggest stars in country music. Bayfront Festival Park. Featuring Chris Janson, Joe Nichols, Chase Bryant and Whiskey Trail. $30; VIP tickets available for $65. Bayfrontcountryjam.com or 800-965-9324, or in person at the Electric Fetus or Beaner's Central.

Trampled by Turtles

July 6

Trampled by Turtles performs at Bayfront Festival Park. With Erik Koskinen, Gaelynn Lea, Early Eyes, Zoo Animal and Adam Kiesling. 3:30 p.m. Doors open at 3 p.m. All ages, all weather. $30. Children younger than 5 are free. Etix.com

311 and Dirty Heads

July 7

311 and Dirty Heads take the stage with The Interrupters, Dreamers and Bikini Trill. Bayfront Festival Park. 4:20 p.m. $66. VIP packages available. plus1.org

“Grease”

July 11-28

Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Join the Rydell High School class of 1959 including head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new girl Sandy Dumbrowski as they try to relive their summer romance along with the T-Birds, the Pink Ladies, and the rest of the gang singing their way through classic hits. Tickets $50. NorShor Theater, 211 E. Superior St. Call (218) 733-7555 or visit duluthplayhouse.org.

Taste of Duluth 2019

July 13

Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the area and features food, live music, products and services, crafts, beer and many other displays of interest. Admission is free. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Bayfront Festival Park. New this year will be strolling musicians as well as a kids’ area. 218-591-5268 or 218-727-1177 for more information.

Family Friendly Orienteering

July 14

For members of Hartley Nature Center. Join a naturalist and learn all about the sport of orienteering. Start off learning how to use a map and compass before breaking up into small groups to try out different orienteering courses. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Call to reserve a spot. 218-724-6735.

Steve Miller Band

July 14

Steve Miller Band performs with Marty Stuart at Bayfront Festival Park. Doors open at 5 p.m.; show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $55. etix. com

• Dr. Paul K. Hodapp

• Dr. Scott K. Varland

• Dr. Nathan A. Jarnot

Arts & Events Calendar

Home and garden tour

July 17

The Duluth Woman's Club is hosting their 52nd Annual Tour of Homes and Gardens on Wednesday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s a day-long, self-guided event, showcasing some of Duluth's most outstanding and prominent homes and gardens. Enjoy lunch at the historical home of the Duluth Woman's Club, 2400 E. Superior St. Tickets and tour maps, with directions and information about each home and garden, will be emailed if registering online. Tickets and maps will be available for pick up beginning July 12 (July 15, 16 for phone registrations). Ticket sales begin June 3. $35 per person, which includes lunch. Register online at duluthwomansclub. com Or call for tickets: 218-724-3168.

Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival

July 20

A celebration of world music whose artists spread the message of love, hope and equality for all people worldwide. Bring your flag and wave it proudly. Bayfront Festival Park, all weather. Adults $50; ages 12-17 $20. Children 11 and younger free with paid adult. Prices go up slightly after June 15. Bayfrontworldmusic.com

Honor the Earth Festival

July 21

Honor the Earth presents the Water is Life Festival. 1-9 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Bayfront Festival Park. honorearth.org

All

July 27

Join 120 brewers of Minnesota by the shores of Lake Superior at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth, and celebrate craft beer 2 ounces at a time. The event will feature beer from

breweries around the region, live music and tasty food in an iconic setting. Ages 21 and older only. All weather. No pets. $45 general admission. $15 sober driver tickets. Mncraftbrew.org

Laughter on the 23rd Floor

Aug. 1-10

Playwright Neil Simon got his first big break in the early 1950s as a staff writer on Sid Caesar’s fabled television series Your Show of Shows, and this comedy takes a fictionalized look at the backstage chaos that went into producing one of the landmarks of television’s golden age. Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Underground. $20. duluthplayhouse.org

City on the Hill Music Festival

Aug. 2-3

This event brings together people of faith for two days of fellowship and music in Bayfront Festival Park. Christians from across the country will join in music and praise. Two-day and one-day passes available for adults and children, $20-$123. For more information, call Life 97.3 studios, 218-7226700. Cityonthehillmusicfest.com

"Fun Home”

Aug. 9-24

Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s funeral home, her growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires. 2015 Tony Award winner for best musical. Renegade Theater, Zeitgeist, 222 E. Superior St. 7:30 p.m. Matinees at 9 p.m. $20 general admission, $16 seniors and students. zeitgeistarts.com

A ‘mountain contemporary’ home in the heart of Duluth’s Congdon Park neighborhood

Stunning views of Lake Superior

Home Touches

By Andrea Busche

Uponentering this issue’s featured home, a “mountain contemporary” two-story abode nestled in the heart of Duluth’s Congdon Park neighborhood, you’ll likely observe a few remarkable things. The first is the ceiling height.

The home’s entryway ceilings soar at a jaw-dropping 17 feet, naturally drawing the eye upward. Once you look up, you’ll no doubt take notice of the beautiful curved wooden beams, a beautiful architectural embellishment, found on the ceiling.

The second eye-catching feature is the abundance of natural light. “I wanted light to be coming through from the front of the house all the way through to the back,” the homeowner said. This was achieved through the use of an entire wall of lake-facing windows, with several multi-level windows in place on the opposite wall.

And last, but not least, is the view. From all three levels of this stunning home, Lake Superior vistas are front and center. The family who resides here, including a wife, husband, and their four children aged 1 to 8, use their view of the lake as an educational tool for their children, in addition to simple enjoyment.

“Each day, we get the lake report,” the homeowner said. “And our son tells us how many ships he can count.”

With stunning views, modern amenities galore, enough room for a

growing family, and even an ADA-compliant suite on the main floor, this is truly a legacy home, a place where the family can comfortably remain for decades to come. And it’s incredibly energy-efficient, to boot. This mountain contemporary home in the heart of Congdon Park simply has it all.

New construction

Despite its location in Congdon Park, where its neighbors are mostly historic, long-standing Duluth homes, this house is brand-new construction. The couple, who are both local physicians, purchased the lot and hired Bruckelmyer Brothers Construction, LLC as their general contractor. The building process began in August 2017, and the family moved in June 2018.

“I looked at many homes before we decided to build,” the homeowner said. “And, we spoke to a few other builders. We ultimately hired Bruckelmyer Brothers, who were our builder, general contractor, and along with us, designed the house.”

The homeowner explained the aesthetic she wanted as “mountain contemporary.” The Bruckelmyer brothers explained how they achieved this look. “The exterior of the house, which is constructed of hand-hewn, hand-finished cedar plank siding, solidifies the ‘mountain’ portion of the style of this home, along with timber and stone accents. Arched metal roof accents surround the home; these bring to life the

contemporary style of the windows and overall ‘wow’ factor.”

At approximately 6,000 square feet, the home features five bedrooms and six bathrooms. The attached three-stall garage, which includes a well-thought-out utility sink, provides a great way to safely and comfortably get in and out of the car on snowy winter days.

The back deck is constructed of maintenance-free material, supported by columns constructed of concrete and wood. The deck also features magnificent views of Lake Superior, and provides a great place to grill and dine al fresco during the warmer months. And a stone retaining wall, constructed by Bella Terra Landscaping, was the first step in creating an attractive yard.

Construction method

This home was built using a specific style, known as “insulated concrete forms” (ICF), which Bruckelmyer Brothers has been using for over 15 years. This makes the home more energy-efficient, as well as quieter and more comfortable, than most.

“By using 6-inch concrete in a 5-inch foam ‘sandwich,’” the Bruckelmyer Brothers explained, “we create above-grade energy storage in the exterior walls. “Well-constructed ICF

homes have proven to be among the top in energy performance buildings. In combination, the home is also outfitted with Marvin triple-pane windows.”

Living area

The home’s main level features floors constructed of engineered hardwood, in a grey-brown shade, and the paint colors are a creamy neutral. A combination of elegant pendant lights are interspersed with recessed lighting throughout the main level of the home, making changing the mood a breeze. Most of the home’s main floor is open concept, with a clear line of sight from the living area through to the dining area and kitchen.

A large, well-appointed study/library/office is off to the left, which features huge, built-in cabinets, fully customized to maximize the space. All of the home’s cabinetry is constructed of alder, which is stained different shades in each location.

The office space offers plenty of task and overhead lighting. There are undermount LED lights, along with an interesting bird’s nest-themed light

fixture overhead. Natural light also abounds, with plenty of windows, including a high clerestory window.

The study is connected to the living space by a doorway, but the rooms also connect through a double-sided gas fireplace, which features a grey granite stone surround. With its natural lighting, warmth of the fireplace, and comfy overstuffed chair, the cozy office space is a natural place to curl up with a book.

Kitchen

The home’s kitchen is well-equipped with the Bosch/Thermador suite of appliances, including a side-by-side fridge-freezer combo (which, while incredibly wide and tall, is counter-depth), steam oven, regular oven, pot filler, extra-deep,

Continued on page 48

We invite you to visit our showroom to see the latest styles & trends in plumbing, lighting, and appliances.

extra-large double sink, wine fridge, and an induction cooktop. “The cooktop is fast and safe if we have little helpers,” the homeowner noted.

Open wood shelves wrap around one corner of the kitchen, making a visually appealing and useful addition. A well-appointed coffee station with a built-in Bosch coffee maker makes brewing coffee a pleasure for the homeowners. A quartz-topped kitchen island, featuring an additional sink, can seat four, and a long-narrow dining table, seating eight, is housed between the kitchen and living space.

The kitchen’s backsplash — made of herringbonepatterned Calacatta Italian Marble — is a special, luxurious touch. “It’s my favorite part of the house,” the homeowner said. There is also a large, faux-limestone hood.

Other main level highlights

The home is equipped with a main level bedroom/ bathroom which is fully ADA-compliant. The homeowner’s father, who uses a scooter to get around, appreciates his visits in this comfortable space. The sink is wall-mounted, and the tub features comfortable bench seating.

The main level also features a mud room, conveniently located between the garage and the kitchen. Here, the children can kick off their muddy or snowy footwear, and hang up coats and backpacks. A laundry room, powder room, and walk-in pantry round out the square footage of the main level.

Master suite

Heading upstairs, the home’s staircase features clear glass panels, so as not to clutter up the visual line of sight. The stairs themselves, along with the upstairs bedrooms and hallway, are appointed with thick, plush beige-toned carpeting.

The master suite, found off to the left, features a large

There is a freestanding white soaking tub in the bathroom of the master suite, along with a walk-in shower appointed with two shower heads. The room is finished in gray and white ceramic tile.

bedroom with sweeping lake views and an attached bathroom. The master bedroom glows from the light of the shallow, geometric-patterned chandelier, which is outfitted with dozens of sparkling crystals.

There is a freestanding white soaking tub in the bathroom, along with a walk-in shower appointed with two shower heads, and is finished in gray and white ceramic tile. The plumbing fixtures, here, along with the rest of the house, are Delta brand, in champagne bronze. The master bath features double sinks, with a white quartz countertop. Just beyond the master bathroom lies a large, his-and-hers walk-in closet.

Children’s’ rooms and bonus space

Exiting the master suite and turning right, you pass a long hallway, part of which is a “catwalk” overlooking the living area below. Further down the hall are three children’s bedrooms outfitted in bold colors, two children’s bathrooms, a linen closet, an over-the-garage kids’ play area, and an extra “bonus room,” which can be used for storage or as a sleeping area in a pinch.

The home’s upstairs also features a convenient laundry chute, and a central vacuum system. “The central vac is really quiet, and even the kids like to use it,” the homeowner noted.

Basement

The home’s basement serves several purposes: exercise, entertainment and utility. There is a large TV-viewing area, with a big-screen TV, projector and comfortable couch. This leads into the bar area, where a gorgeous, curved wood bar, topped with a two-level granite bar top, and fully-furnished with a fridge, freezer, and dishwasher, sits ready to entertain.

There is a well-appointed exercise

2517 East 3rd St. • Duluth, MN 55812

218-721-8040 • bros1@charter.net

www.brothersduluth.com

FEATURED HOME DIRECTORY

General Contractor

• Bruckelmyer Brothers

Construction, LLC ............advertising on 35 & 53

“The fascination of working with an amazing team of people to create a one of a kind custom home is extremely rewarding for us as a contractor.”

Project Participants

Plumbing and Lighting Fixtures

• Ferguson .........................................advertising on 47 “Such a fun project to have contributed to, it was a pleasure working with the homeowners and everyone at Bruckelmyer Brothers.”

Floor - Install, Refinish & Resurface

• Superior Flooring advertising on 49

Electrical Contractor

•Residential &Commercial•Interior &E xterior

•CustomPainting &Wood Finishing

218-525-2137 |590 4McQuadeRd, Duluth

www.calcopaintingmn.com

• Simco Electric, LLC ..........................advertising on 50 Paint Contractor

• Calco Painting, Inc. .........................advertising on 50 Plumbing, A/C, Heating Contractor

• Harbor Mechanical, Inc. ...................advertising on 50

Weatherization Contractor

• Brothers Weatherization, LLC ...........advertising on 50 “It is always a pleasure to work with the Bruckelmeyer Brothers on their beautiful homes.”

Fireplace

• Duluth Stove & Fireplace .................advertising on 52 "It was great to be part of their home."

Contractors Equipment, Supplies, Rental & Lease

• Rosenco, Inc.

Drywall

• Northstar Drywall, Inc.

Engineers - Structural

• Hurst & Henrichs MN LTD

Excavating Contractor

• Hedberg Excavating, LLC

Garage Doors & Operating Devices

• Doorco, Inc.

Glass - Home, Residential, Commercial

• St. Germain's Glass

Kitchen Design, Remodeling & Counter-tops

UNMATCHED SPEED, QUALITY, AND SERVICE

(218) 525-0356

info@simcoelectric.com

• Granite Works

Mason Contractor

• Johnston Masonry, Inc.

room, and even a storage room with a golf net, so the homeowner can practice his swing year-round. Another full bathroom is located in the basement, along with a linen closet, utility room, and cold storage room.

Heating and air systems

The home is outfitted with in-floor heating throughout. With eight separate heating zones, each section of the home can be thermostatically adjusted for comfort.

“For comfort, nothing beats the feel of in-floor hydronic heat (powered by natural gas) in a northern Minnesota home,” the Bruckelmyer brothers said. “The challenge is to combine it with a cooling system for our short, but humid summer. An air source heat pump with mini-split air-conditioning units (powered by electricity) used throughout the home create an efficient, cost-effective answer to not only the cooling portion, but also heating for the interim days of spring and fall.”

Satisfied homeowners

The homeowners are extremely satisfied with their new home, where they can raise their children, entertain, and relax together as a family. “It’s great that our house is right in town, less than ten minutes from work. And, it’s terrific for our kids,” the homeowner said. “The home is super quiet, and the temperature consistency is incredible,” she added. “The Bruckelmyer Brothers really customized everything we asked for.”

This build was a pleasant collaboration all around. “We cannot say enough kind words to describe this family,” the Bruckelmyer brothers said. “It was truly a pleasure to work with them and bring the collaboration of their and our ideas together to create a remarkable and very functional family home.” D

Despite its location in Congdon Park, where its neighbors are mostly historic, long-standing Duluth homes, this house is brand-new construction.

The home’s basement serves several purposes: exercise, entertainment and utility. There is a large TV-viewing area, with a big-screen TV, projector and comfortable couch.

Enjoy the freshness and color of spring with

Rainbow Layer Salad

By Sarah and Tony Nasello

We’ve

moved into the season of freshness and color, and my new Rainbow Layer Salad with Buttermilk

Herb Dressing is a dazzling and delicious way to celebrate.

With its showy presentation, this big-batch salad is designed to appeal to every palate, making it perfect for potlucks, parties and picnics. An assortment of colorful ingredients, which includes a mix of veggies and protein, are placed in layers to maximize the salad’s visual appeal while also providing a balance of flavors and textures.

Iceberg lettuce forms the base layer, and I love how its crisp and refreshing quality complements the salad. Typically, I opt for more nutrient-rich greens in my salads, but this dish requires a hefty lettuce that can support the other layers, and hearty iceberg is a perfect fit.

The ingredients are assembled in layers to create a stunning visual effect, starting with iceberg lettuce, followed by cherry tomatoes, red cabbage, orange bell pepper, fresh baby spinach, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, green onion, cheddar cheese and blanched asparagus. A glass bowl that is the same diameter from top to bottom, like a trifle bowl, is ideal, but any glass bowl will work in a pinch.

The measurements in the recipe are simply suggestions, and you can adjust the amounts and even the ingredients, as you desire. Swap out peas for the fresh asparagus or add diced rotisserie chicken as an additional layer — the possibilities are endless.

While the rainbow of colors might draw you in, the magic of this salad comes from the creamy, herb-filled buttermilk dressing that oozes through every layer.

This recipe was inspired by the classic seven-layer salads that were ubiquitous at school potlucks and church gatherings when I was young. While they looked so pretty and delicious, their thick mayonnaise dressing always

stopped me dead in my tracks. As a lifelong sufferer of mayo-phobia (an intense disliking of mayonnaise in any form), those salads were, sadly, beyond my limited palate.

Since sharing my affliction in this column over the years, I have learned that I am not alone in my irrational fear of mayonnaise. Thus, for everyone who has ever suffered the deep disappointment of diving into a multilayered salad only to get a mouthful of mayo, my luscious, mayo-free buttermilk dressing is dedicated to you.

Equal portions of buttermilk, plain Greek yogurt and sour cream are combined to form the base of the dressing, which receives a robust infusion of flavor from a medley of fresh herbs, including chives, dill, parsley and basil. Dijon mustard, a bit of garlic and olive oil round out the recipe to create a ranch-style dressing that is fresh and oh, so delicious. The dressing will keep in the fridge for up to one week and is best when prepared at least an hour or two in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.

The salad can be assembled up to 24 hours before serving and refrigerated until ready to serve, with the dressing added as the final layer about 30 to 60 minutes before serving, so that it can slowly trickle down into the layers. D

Rainbow Layer Salad

Ingredients:

1 head iceberg lettuce, cut into 1 to 2-inch pieces (bite-size)

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

1 to 1 ½ cups red cabbage, shredded Orange bell pepper, large dice (halfinch)

1 cup baby spinach leaves

6 hard-boiled eggs, quartered

10 strips bacon, cooked and roughly chopped

5 green onions, green and light green parts, finely chopped

Sharp cheddar cheese, thick shred

10 asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces, blanched

¾ to 1 cup buttermilk herb dressing

Note: Measurements may vary depending on the size of your bowl. A large glass bowl is ideal for this salad, especially one where the base is the same width as the top (like a trifle bowl).

To blanch the asparagus:

Fill a medium saucepan about two-thirds with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, fill a medium bowl with ice and water; set aside. When the water begins to boil, add the chopped asparagus and blanch until bright green and just tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer asparagus to a strainer and place the strainer in the ice water for 2 minutes. Remove strainer and place asparagus on a layer of paper towels to dry.

Directions for salad:

Line the bottom of the bowl with a thick layer of iceberg lettuce, about 2 inches high. Add a layer of the halved cherry tomatoes, hugging the edge closely and then more loosely spread out toward the middle. Repeat with the cabbage, bell pepper, spinach, eggs, bacon, onion, cheese and asparagus.

Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

About 30 to 60 minutes before serving, pour the dressing evenly over the top of the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve. There is no need to toss or mix the salad before serving, as the dressing will seep into the layers as the salad rests.

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Sarah’s Mayo-Free Buttermilk Herb Dressing

Makes: 2 cups

Ingredients:

2 whole scallions, chopped (white and green part)

½ cup fresh basil leaves, lightly packed

2 tablespoons fresh dill fronds

2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves

¼ cup fresh chives, chopped

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 large garlic clove, peeled

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ cup buttermilk

½ cup sour cream

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

Directions:

In a food processor fitted with the steel blade, add the scallions, basil, dill, parsley, chives, oil, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper and blitz until smooth, about 15 to 20 seconds. Add the buttermilk, sour cream and yogurt and blend until smooth and creamy.

Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

“Home with the Lost Italian” is a column written by Sarah Nasello featuring recipes by her husband, Tony Nasello. The couple owned Sarello’s in Moorhead and lives in Fargo with their son, Giovanni. Readers can reach them at sarahnasello@ gmail.com.

Glensheen hosts commerce event

The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce holds a “Finally Friday” mixer event every month. In December it was held at the Glensheen Mansion, which was beautifully decorated for Christmas. Some 70 people attended.

Krech Ojard & Associates

Krech Ojard & Associates, consulting engineers, held its annual Christmas party at the Clyde Iron Works on Dec. 20. More than 90 people, including spouses, children and employees from Minneapolis attended the event.

Barbara Boo and Paige Mellinger

Cedric Heller and Dustin James

Julie and Kevin Jones

Dan Hartman and Besty Hill

Katie Larson, Scott Tracy and Ruth Heitke

Joseph, John, Thomas, Sophia and Alina Lorenz

Dean Luoma Seth Currier

Mary Larson and Yvette Krech

Tessa, Diane, Mike and Anna Mlinar

Nathan Socha and Matt Draeger

Sara and Patrick Leow

Bob Monahan and Hillarie Madden

Charlie Welsh, Cory Martinson and Casey Nelson

Lara, Noel, Jack Wilkinson and Hannah Bourdage

Dawn Johnson and Nicole Karonwski

Jeff Heller, Susan Heller and Nels Ojard

Kyle Severson and Mike Smisek

Natalie, Hezeklah (8 months) and Gunnar Brammer

Wendy Grethen, Michael Rosenzweig and Glen Ellison

Sarah and Derek Plehal

PHOTOS BY NAOMI YAEGER

PHOTOS BY NAOMI YAEGER

Rosie Awards

The Woman Today hosted the annual Rosie Awards on April 4 in Greysolon Ballroom. The awards honor women who are driving forces in the Northland, very much like the cultural icon namesake Rosie the Riveter.

Beverly Godfrey and Beatrice (Bea) Ojakangas

Georgette Petrovich, Sue Kamppi

Anna Spielmann, Jen Baumann, Vanessa Lebeins, Sara Neimi

Carol Hegna, Jamie Sams, Georgianne Sams

Sara Cole, Pam Franklin, Meri Franklin

Maddie Dostal, Shannon Sams

Jenna Barrett, Erin Powers

Maria Letsos, Dana Depp, Ginger Eckman

Jessica Johnson, Braydon Johnson

Crickett Lancaster, Kathy Jarve

Michelle Truax, Megan Keller

Steve Farmakes, Annette Farmakes

Paul Almirall, Rosey Byrne, Debbie Almorall, Mark Leutgeb

Zoë LaTour, Melissa LaTour, Hazel Bennett

Anne Fisk, Catharine Larsen

Alyssa Hei, Karlie Fish (back), Laura Plys, Audrey McParlan, Anna McParlan (front)

Sam Werle, Alice Jacobson, Brianne Benson

Kristine Stave, Kelly Biondi, Lori Dowd, Kielo Evjen

Isabel Kellar, Kelly Kellar, Jesse Kellar

Shaina Nickila, Doug Kman

Mike Busche, Andrea Busche

Sophia Reeves, Crysta Reeves

Mindy Granley, Mary Christiansen, Kim Maki

Nikky Famakes, Peggy Warring

Makes getting there half the fun.