The Woman Today October 2020

PROFILES

6 Rachel Perlinger

Terri Newman

Two Northlanders rejoice in their journey to being cancer-free

11 Geri Hamilton

12 Kathleen Cargill

14 Kathryn Nelson

16 Therese Gruba

18 Shawna Mullen

20 Marlise Riffel

HEALTH/MEDICINE

32 Essentia

Screening key to early detection of breast cancer

36 St. Luke’s St. Luke’s opens medical spa

FASHION

38 Fashions by Sam

FOOD/NUTRITION

48 Ros(i)e Cookies

HOME TOUCHES

40 North Shore remodel gives couple contemporary lakeside cabin home FINANCIAL

34 Budgeting and planning for the

WOMAN the today

GROUP PUBLISHER

Neal Ronquist

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Rick Lubbers

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Megan Keller

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Ali Carlson

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Renae Ronquist

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Julie Schulz

CONTRIBUTORS

TO OUR READERS

Hello readers, thank you for picking up this October issue of The Woman Today. Each issue, I take time to sit in my office (now home office) to do some brainstorming about what this issue’s subject will be. These past few issues I felt I wanted to stay away from writing about COVID-19; it’s everywhere and all around us and I didn’t want to write about the obvious. Well, it’s really something that can’t be avoided. Our lives have changed, our businesses have changed, and life as we see it is changing.

One thing that won’t change is our loyalty and dedication to The Woman Today. We have a small team, but we are a fierce one. Each month, we continue to surprise ourselves with new creativity, new ideas and trying our best to give you a fabulous magazine. We thank our advertisers who continue to stand by us and support The Woman Today; our freelancers who have been challenged more than ever to ensure they are writing amazing content and ensuring they also stay safe while out in the public; and the photographers who do their best to get that perfect shot, when now masks is all we see.

Thank you to the entire team at The Woman Today. It takes a village to get this all done! In this issue of The Woman Today, we have a great variety of content. You will finally get to learn about our six amazing Rosie Award winners. Advertising account representative Ali Carlson and I had the great honor to surprise all six winners and hand-deliver them their awards. This year’s awards were absolutely beautiful! The winners received classy crystal vases that were engraved with their name and award they won, provided by Nummi Jewelers, and Mount Royal Floral so kindly provided the gorgeous flowers for the vases.

Thank you, Alex from Comstock Creative, for following us all around Duluth, Hermantown and all the way up to Virginia to produce the wonderful photos and videos of each of our recipients.

TO:

This year’s event was hosted virtually July 30, and we had a great attendance show up to watch this year’s presentation, and we are so grateful we were still able to honor and celebrate all our wonderful nominees and winners. The virtual event can still be found at thewomantoday.com.

This October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We connected with Peggy Anderson at Circle of Hope, who recommended two incredible women who have endured breast cancer. They took the time to share their stories with us, and I will say what strength and perseverance they both have.

Lastly, are you a senior on the go who is wanting to stay safe and fit? You will learn about more options for you in our featured stories from masking up, how to get out and about safely and an organization who focuses solely on fitness.

Thank you again for reading The Woman Today, I hope you enjoy our October issue.

Two Northlanders

rejoice in their journey to being

cancer-free

By Andrea Busche

Every woman’s body is unique. And when it comes to fighting cancer, a treatment plan is highly individualized, too.

Today, we introduce you to two local women: Rachael Perlinger and Terri Newman. Both are moms and hardworking professionals. The women also share at least one other similarity: both were diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a type of breast cancer.

While the women battled the same form of breast cancer, their personal journeys are very unique. Despite following different treatment regimens, we are pleased to say that today, both are happily living very fulfilled lives, cancerfree.

The Women

Rachael Perlinger lives between Duluth and Two Harbors with her large family: husband, Paul; daughters Kayla, 22, and Lauren, 20; and step-children Kaitlyn, 18, Lauren, 16, and Ethan, 13. The family also has horses, chickens, Guinea hens, barn cats and a couple of dogs.

“Sometimes we have seven people at home. It’s kind of a revolving door at our house,” Perlinger said with a laugh.

Perlinger has worked in health care for over 20 years, and today serves as the administrator for Northland Plastic Surgery where she handles the financials, human resources, marketing, and other aspects of helping the clinic run smoothly.

“I’m the problem solver,” she said. “I run the business side of the clinic.”

Today, she owns a small jewelry-making business, called Terri’s Treasures.

“I make earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings –customized, beaded jewelry,” she said. She is also a competitive ballroom dancer.

Rachael’s Journey

Perlinger is a busy, active woman who loves running and the outdoors. So, when she was diagnosed with DCIS at age 46, it came as a bit of a shock.

“I went in for my routine physical, which I do every

Rachel Perlinger

Terri Newman of Duluth has two adult daughters, Michelle, 39, and Gina, 37. She also has two young grandchildren. Newman and her husband, Jerry Metcalf, were married for 27 years, until his passing in 2012.

Newman worked for the local telephone company (which held many names over the years, including Century Link and Qwest) from 1990 until her retirement in 2012. She also served as the representative, vice president, and president of her union – the Communications Workers of America.

Rachael Perlinger smiles in front of a shed on her farm. She and her husband have lived on the property for about a year and have loved every minute of it.

December,” she said. “My primary care doctor discovered a lump, so I got a mammogram.”

Following the mammogram, an ultrasound and biopsy would follow. She received the results while she was at work.

“My primary care doctor was a friend, and the moment I heard her voice, I knew,” Perlinger said.

Perlinger considers herself lucky to have the diagnosis of DCIS.

“I was lucky – mine was very early-stage, it had not

spread, and it was encapsulated. I asked a surgeon in my office, ‘What does this mean?’ And he said, ‘You’re going to be OK.’”

It was recommended that Perlinger treat her cancer with either a lumpectomy paired with radiation, or a double mastectomy. She opted for a lumpectomy, without the radiation.

“Neither of those options fit me,” she said, while stressing that her decision was highly personal. While Perlinger believes women should listen to their intuition, they should also follow the advice of their medical provider(s).

“I am the daughter of a chiropractor, and I believe if you need something removed, get it removed,” she said. “But then let your body go back to healing itself.”

“I knew radiation could scar my heart and lungs,” she added. “And I was a runner. I was in fantastic shape. The recurrence rate was low enough – I had a three in 10 chance – that the radiation didn’t make sense for me.”

Perlinger bounced back in short order.

“I recovered quickly. Because my cancer was encapsulated, I was cancer-free after my first surgery,” she said. “But I had a second surgery a week later to take out more tissue to ensure the margin was large.”

Healing energy work, including guided breathing and

guided imagery, were also crucial to Perlinger’s healing.

Today, at age 50, Perlinger is cancer-free. She returns for an annual mammogram once a year.

“I consider it a Christmas gift to myself,” she said.

After receiving genetic testing, Perlinger was grateful to learn that her daughters are not genetically predisposed to the types of cancer caused by the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.

Terri’s Journey Newman was applying moisturizer after a bath in

Terri Newman, breast cancer survivor and dancer, poses for a photo in the Superior Ballroom Dance Studio.

Horses Stella and Alice flick their tails as they impatiently wait for Rachael Perlinger to give them some hay for dinner.

2003 when she discovered a lump. She was 49 years old. “I didn’t think much of it,” she said. “I had always faithfully gotten my mammograms.”

After visiting a nurse practitioner, she got a mammogram, followed up with a biopsy. She learned over the phone that she had a fast-growing, triple-negative form of DCIS. It was recommended that Newman receive a lumpectomy, plus chemotherapy and radiation.

After her first surgery, Newman learned that the margins were not clean. So, she traveled to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for a second surgery. But this discovery was a bit of a fluke, and a lucky one at that.

“A friend from the union asked if I had gotten a second opinion,” she said. “Based on his comment, I ended up at Mayo. I would not have known to ask if I had clean margins without his comment. I firmly believe that, throughout my journey, there were little angels looking over me.”

Newman endured two months of radiation, and eight sessions of chemo. After her long hair started to fall out, a beautician friend gave her a buzz cut, and she chose to wear wigs. She chose to make the best of it, and changed her look regularly.

“I could be a blonde one day, and a redhead the next,” she said with a laugh.

While Newman didn’t get sick from her treatment, she suffered from fatigue, and what she called “chemo brain,” where she experienced memory loss. She also had some joint pain, and developed a thyroid condition as a result of her treatment.

For five years, Newman returned for mammograms every six months. Now, she’s back to once a year. Today, 16 years later, Newman remains cancer-free.

Although she tested negative for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, there is a lot of cancer in Newman’s family. Her daughters have been advised to start receiving mammograms at age 39.

Advice

Both Perlinger and Newman have some advice to impart when it comes to dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. For instance, it is imperative to lean on others for support.

“Ask for the help you need, and let others help you,” Perlinger said, noting that her husband and other family members created a sturdy support network for her. For Newman, bringing her husband along to doctor’s appointments and having her girlfriends accompany her to chemo treatments gave her a boost of strength.

When it comes to cancer, knowledge is power.

Dancer Terri Newman practices a kick with instructor Benjamin Welch.

“Going online was very helpful,” Newman added. “You can’t underestimate the amount of knowledge out there.”

Newman also recommended a couple of books she found helpful.

“The Mayo Clinic Breast Cancer book is the best place to start,” she noted. And Peggy Anderson, the founder of Circle of Hope, also wrote a helpful book called “Dear Auntie, Why Me,” which is about breast cancer.

“I would also advise people to learn as much as they can about family genetics,” she added.

Speaking of Circle of Hope, both women support the cause in efforts to help others battling breast cancer. Perlinger, a marathoner, is a charity runner who raises donations for the group.

“I consider Peggy Anderson an angel on earth,” Perlinger said. “There is literally a village of women through Circle of Hope – I want others to know that we have got you, and you’re not alone.”

And Newman has served on the group’s board of directors, and also donates a portion of the proceeds from her jewelry sales to the cause.

Lessons

Both women have learned many lessons as a result of breast cancer, such as living life in the present.

“I don’t allow myself to ask, ‘What if it comes back?’ Newman said. “I keep wigs in my basement, but I don’t think about it. I want to fill my days with my grandchildren, jewelry, and ballroom dancing.”

Another big lesson is finding peace within yourself.

“Find what gives you peace – whether it’s God, nature, yoga, or your best friend – find what settles your heart,” Perlinger said.

Breast cancer is also a thorough teacher about the fragility of life.

“I used this as an opportunity to slow down and be deliberate; be thoughtful. Time is finite,” Perlinger said.

“Life is precious and it’s short,” Newman added.

If you are diagnosed, these two survivors recommend trying to remain positive, while learning as much as you can.

“It’s easy to become scared by another woman’s journey, or the statistics,” Perlinger said. “But, don’t be afraid to ask questions. I brought a notebook to all of my appointments to write everything down, but I’ve since burned it. That’s a part of my past now.” D

Circle of Hope provides support

By Andrea Busche

Peggy Anderson of Duluth, along with two of her friends, Peggy Rydberg and Tammy Graves Miller, battled breast cancer together, supporting each other along the way. The women wanted to do something to help others fighting the disease. In 2010, they formed Circle of Hope, now a well-known 501©(3) non-profit organization providing outreach, emotional support, supplies and even financial support for individuals fighting breast cancer in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Circle of Hope doesn’t have formal support groups, but Anderson will visit one-on-one with breast cancer patients to discuss their diagnosis. Circle of Hope also provides support by sending out feel-good and educational boxes, containing chemo caps, slippers, and educational and disease-specific resources. Special quilts are provided to advanced breast cancer patients. Prayer shawls are also provided. Many of these special items are hand-crafted by Circle of Hope’s dedicated volunteers.

Circle of Hope can help pay medical bills for patients without health insurance, those struggling to cover copays, and those who have had to quit work to receive treatment. Additionally, Circle of Hope helps with house or rent payments, utility bills, and even donates gas and grocery cards, which are particularly helpful if a patient must travel to receive treatment.

Circle of Hope raises money through a variety of fundraising efforts. Additionally, many individual and business donors contribute to the cause.

Those seeking assistance from Circle of Hope should speak to their health care provider. While anyone can benefit from the emotional support benefits, financial support is reserved for those most in need.

An application including proof of income is required. These forms can be acquired from a doctor, social worker, or nurse navigator. D

For more information, please visit circleofhopeduluth.org.

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

The Rosie Awards will be presented at the fourth annual Recognizing Women as a Driving Force Event Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Greysolon Ballroom by Blackwoods

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the live recognition event this spring for this year’s Rosie Awards had to be postponed, and ultimately cancelled. But, like our resilient award winners and the drive to succeed, the recognition “event” was rebuilt to an in-person award presentation with each of the winners this summer, and then compiled into a Video Awards Presentation shared with the community. We’re proud to share with you our 2020 Rosie Award Winners.

Geri Hamilton Silent Advocate Award

By Andrea Busche

The Rosie Awards “Silent Advocate Award” is given to a woman who silently helps her communities and neighbors. Duluthian Geri Hamilton, the winner of this award, has been giving back by quietly leaving her creations – special, but silly-looking stuffed dolls referred to as Dammit Dolls – for patients to take, free of charge, at infusion centers in the Northland and beyond.

These dolls put a smile on the faces of all who receive them, and the saying tied around each doll’s neck provides encouragement. And most of all, they honor the memory of her beloved brother, Dean.

Hamilton, a mother of two, step-mother of two, and grandmother of three, has been sewing all her life. As the oldest of six kids, she shared, “My grandma taught me to sew before I was 5.” When Hamilton’s granddaughter, Madeline, returned from a trip to Las Vegas, where she had seen a Dammit Doll for sale, she suggested they make them together.

Hamilton started by making a few dolls for the family. But after Hamilton’s brother Dean (Dino) was diagnosed

Continued on page 13

Mentor Award

Kathleen Cargill

By Andrea Busche

The Rosie Awards “Mentor Award” is given to a woman among us who has acted as an experienced and trusted adviser to those around her. Duluth resident Kathleen Cargill’s life story is chock full of examples of guidance and mentorship she has shared with others.

“I think I was put on this earth to help other people,” she stated simply.

It started back in the 1980s, when she was a vocational rehabilitation counselor in Lakeland, Fla.

“I worked with people with disabilities, to help them get trained and into the workforce,” she said.

She also worked on behalf of the American Indian population to help them locate job placements.

When her husband, Mike, was recruited for a job by Cirrus Aircraft, the couple moved to Duluth in 1993, and Cargill dove in to finding new opportunities for herself. She started working for the College of St. Scholastica (CSS) in 1993 as a student support services counselor where she helped lowincome, first-generation college students remain in school.

“That mentoring situation wasn’t just providing academic guidance,” she said. “It was also asking them questions like, ‘Do you have enough to eat?’”

Later, Cargill wrote a grant proposal to create a McNair Scholars program at CSS, where she became director. She

helped students, many of whom were first-generation and/ or students of color, prepare for graduate school. She also taught anthropology courses at CSS for 10 years.

Over the years, she has continued to lead and teach. Although she is now retired from academia, Cargill remains active with other endeavors, with an emphasis on teaching.

“I really enjoy teaching,” she said. “I find things I enjoy and then teach them to others.”

Today, she is a participant/mentor with the Twin Ports Genealogical Society and teaches genealogy courses for the adult education programs in Proctor, Duluth and for the St. Louis County Historical Society. Additionally, she operates a small, artisanal sewing business, and is a published author.

Cargill was nominated for the Mentor award by her friend, Cora Knutson.

“Kathleen Cargill has been a mentor in both a personal and professional capacity for more than 30 years,” said Knutson in her nomination. “In the 1980s, as a senior counselor for the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, she guided and mentored people to obtain the skills necessary to re-enter the workforce.

“Here in Duluth, she has mentored students at the College of St. Scholastica as a student support services counselor, helping them cope and providing the tools and encouragement needed to complete their courses of study. She has taught many anthropology and genealogy courses, too.

“Kathleen has also provided assistance to genealogy researchers, and has been an active participant and mentor in the Twin Ports Genealogical Society. Many have relied on her counsel and expertise, and I believe she is an excellent example of both the wisdom and the generosity of spirit the Mentor award represents.”

Cargill was surprised to be the recipient of this award.

“I was absolutely speechless,” she said. “I’m thankful, and really appreciate the recognition.” D

Continued from page 11

with cancer, he suggested she donate them to the St. Luke’s infusion center, where he was receiving treatment. During his illness, Hamilton was Dino’s caregiver, and the two grew especially close during this time.

Fast forward a few years, and Hamilton, who is retired from a long career at St. Louis County, has now made and donated well over 500 dolls. Her creations have been given away at St. Luke’s, Mayo Clinic, Hope Lodge (a free lodging facility for families near the Mayo Clinic), and other infusion centers in the Twin Cities. She also uses her sewing skills to make masks, which she donates to support the efforts against COVID-19.

Sadly, Dino passed away in January 2020. She now refers to the dolls as “Dino’s Dammit Dolls,” and continues making and donating them in his honor.

Hamilton was nominated for the Silent Advocate award by her husband, John Hamilton.

“Geri makes Dammit Dolls for the infusion center at St Luke’s, the Mayo and other cancer centers. These dolls come with a saying for cancer victims and other diseases. They are about 15 inches tall and have patterns for men and women. She puts them in infusion centers where they are always wanted and talked about, and they are free. She started doing this when her brother went through pancreatic cancer. Sadly, after two years, her brother passed. But she is still making them. It brings her close to her brother, she says.”

“It was pretty touching,” Hamilton said about receiving this award. “I do this because I enjoy seeing people smile. It makes them feel good, and it also makes me feel good.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

You’ve earned this. We’ll handle the meals, transportation, housekeeping and, when you need it, assistance and care from our 24-hour nursing staff. All you need to do is… enjoy your golden years!

Kathryn Nelson Leadership Award

By Andrea Busche

The Rosie Awards “Leadership Award” is given to a woman who represents outstanding achievement in their field of endeavor. This year’s recipient, Kathryn Nelson, a wife and mom of two adult daughters, is a leader in the areas of social justice and equality.

As the lead minister of Duluth’s Peace Church, Nelson lives her life guided by Bible verse Micah 6:8 – instructing Christians to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” From baptisms and confirmations to weddings and funerals, Nelson leads people through the most important moments in their lives.

“The reasons why I do what I do are rooted in my faith,” Nelson said. “We are commanded to love one another. And I just love people – I think people are sacred and amazing.”

In her 29 years leading the congregation at Peace Church, Nelson has made huge strides toward equality. She was one of the first clergy members in the area to perform same-sex weddings.

“I’ve done weddings for our gay and lesbian members since the very beginning,” Nelson said. Today, approximately one-third of the weddings she performs are for same-sex couples.

Nelson is also a strong supporter of racial equality. She has done volunteer ministry with inner-city kids. And, she helped establish a post-secondary scholarship for people of color through St. Mark’s AME church, in honor of the late Reverend Arthur Foy.

Under Nelson’s leadership, Peace Church has become a sanctuary church. People at risk of being deported are welcome to stay in a small on-site apartment.

Nelson has offered space at Peace Church for CHUM Church, a faith community for people with disabilities. She has also welcomed groups striving toward recovery, including Alcoholics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous,

and others.

“Our building really functions as a community center,” Nelson said.

Additionally, Nelson visits women who are incarcerated at the St. Louis County Jail every week. Here, she leads Bible study and conversation, offering kindness and mercy to those in need of a second chance. She has also served on the boards for both Life House and the YWCA.

Nelson was nominated for the Leadership Award by Susan Isernhagen, a member of Peace Church.

“Kathy is worthy of celebration for her many contributions to people and causes,” she said. “Her work has inspired many toward justice activities and the welcoming of all.

“While her words are inspirational, she leads by her own actions. At church, she makes sure that all families have personal and meaningful funerals, weddings, and celebrations. She turns no one away. She is a strong mentor to youth as she leads them toward service — both locally, and in other cities with needs. She faithfully visits the sick and hurting, giving attention to each person’s times of need.

Kathy magnifies her own leadership through collegial relationships, inspiring all who know her toward justice. Our community is stronger because of her.”

Nelson is honored to receive the Leadership award.

“We’re in a time of national crisis, between the pandemic and growing racial awareness,” she said. “So, this award is really powerful. And, Rosie is a symbol of strength. It also means a lot because I’m retiring in January, too.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

Most Engaged Volunteer Award

Therese Gruba

By Andrea Busche

The Rosie Awards “Most Engaged Volunteer Award” is given to someone who goes above and beyond, working tirelessly in the region for the good of us all. Duluthian Therese Gruba has found great purpose in her life through helping children, volunteering countless hours to their care.

Gruba has always loved children.

“I’ve always wanted to care for orphans, since I was a kid myself,” she said.

Not only is she the mother to eight of her own, but she is the co-founder and president of New Hope for Families, a non-profit entity specializing in foster care placements and support.

It all started with a mission trip to Mexico through Lakeview Christian Academy.

She visited Rio Bravo Ministries, a faith-based ministry located in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico, where she met many orphaned children being housed in a unique setting.

“Wouldn’t it be cool if we did something like this in Duluth?” she thought.

Fast forward a few years, and Therese and her husband,

Jim, along with Joe and Briar Fischer, established New Hope for Families. The organization’s goals include raising public awareness about the need for foster families; supporting families involved in fostering children; working with biological families seeking to be reunited with their children; and letting people know that getting involved doesn’t just mean doing foster care, but providing support in other ways, too.

New Hope for Families recently purchased a former church from the Benedictine Sisters for just $2. Currently, it is home to one local family, with extra room to house six to eight foster children at one time.

Gruba has big dreams to add even more homes to their

roster. She and Jim would also like to do respite care in their own home.

But they can’t, and don’t, do it alone.

“We’re an army of volunteers,” Gruba said about New Hope.

The group is immensely grateful for the donations of time, money, and supplies that have poured in from the community.

“I’m in tears almost every day,” Gruba added. “It’s such a community effort.”

Gruba received not just one, but two, nominations: from her husband and her brother-in-law.

“My wife, Therese, is one of the volunteer founders and president of New Hope for Families,” said Jim in his nomination. “Under her leadership, a joint center of operations and emergency foster care building has been acquired and refurbished. The current roster of New Hope foster parents is four and growing.

“Recently, she let me know that she was bringing two boys from one of the homes to spend the night at our house so the parents could have a night off. She would be Mother Theresa if there was an ‘a’ at the end of her name.”

“This award is a podium for raising public awareness,” Therese said. “Churches and schools aren’t open right now, so we can’t go and speak. We have to find more ways to get the word out, and this is one of them.”

Please visit newhopeforfamilies.com or find them on Facebook to learn more. D

New Hope for Families

Vision Statement

In the winter of 2017, God planted a desire in our hearts to find a creative way to remedy the growing shortfall of foster care homes in our community. Thus began our mission to recruit and support a network of foster care homes for children needing a safe place to land during times of trauma & transition. By building a community of support around foster families, we are also able to support biological families in their reunification process. We believe that together, we can make a difference.

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

Shawna Mullen Spirit Award

By Andrea Busche

TThe Rosie Awards “Spirit Award” is given to a young woman who has shown exceptional courage and determination. At just 36, award winner Shawna Mullen exhibits these traits in spades.

Mullen was born and raised in Cambridge, Minn., and moved to Duluth in 2010, where she lives with her 9-yearold daughter Mackenzie, and partner, James. In her 10 years in Duluth, she has made huge strides toward promoting alternative transportation such as biking, walking, carpooling, and using public transportation.

Mullen lives the life she promotes. She herself bikes a mile and a half to and from her job as transportation services manager at Essentia. For Mullen, promoting alternative transportation is both her passion and her job.

Mullen earned a bachelor’s degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, with a double-major in biology and studio art.

“I pursued art because I like art, and biology because I have an interest in environmental issues and sustainability,” she said.

Mullen began bike commuting in 2013, which she does year-round, on an upright commuter bike.

“I started biking for environmental and sustainability reasons,” she said, “But the more I walked, biked and bused, the more I connected with my community. It really strengthened my sense of place.”

Mullen has been part of many local initiatives promoting alternative transportation. For instance, she brought the first “Paint the Pavement” program to Duluth, intended to slow traffic, build community, and create public art.

She created an annual event called Bus Bike Walk. She founded Winter Bike Week, demonstrating that people really do bike in frigid Duluth. She created the first Mayor’s Bike Ride in Superior, and coordinated the corresponding event in Duluth.

Mullen is a founding member of groups We Walk in

Duluth and Duluth Bikes. She is a board member of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, and a member of both the Safe and Walkable Hillside Coalition and the BicyclePedestrian Advisory Committee for the Duluth-Superior Metropolitan Interstate Council.

She also teaches classes on crafting, winter bike commuting, and urban cycling at the Duluth Folk School. Additionally, Mullen is a certified instructor for the League of American Bicyclists and was a recent presenter at the Winter Cycling Congress, held in Finland.

Mullen was nominated for this award by Mike Casey, on behalf of the group “We Walk in Duluth.”

“Shawna has elevated the needs of people who bike and walk to a new level,” said the nomination. “She has developed a calm, effective, and compelling style of advocating for people who are typically not heard in our city. In the process, she has become a strong and respected leader. She is committed to bringing our community together through improved transportation options for ALL of Duluth. Shawna is an advocate who lives the lifestyle she promotes.”

“My strongest emotion is gratitude,” said Mullen about receiving the Spirit award.” I’m thankful for the people who nominated me, as well as the people who have mentored and encouraged me along the way.” D

Marlise Riffel Rosie Award

By Andrea Busche

Our special, namesake award — the Rosie award — is presented to a woman who simply gets stuff done. This year’s recipient is Marlise Riffel, a resident of Virginia, Minn.

Riffel spent over 30 years as a college professor — first at Rochester Community College and later, Lake Superior College — and in retirement, pursues a wide array of interests that speak to her heart. She takes great pride in her adult daughter, Lucia, who is an accomplished artist, and shares a happy life with her spouse, Ellen.

Today, Riffel dedicates her time to securing sustainable, local food for her community. She has a passion for supporting LBTBQ youth. She also pursues political activism and supports the arts.

When asked why she gives back to her community on such a prolific scale, she shared, “When I retired, I told myself I was going to help make this the best community I can. Also, I have belonged to the UUC Church since the 1970s. One of their principles is the deep respect for the interdependent web of life.”

Riffel serves on the board of the Iron Range Partnership for Sustainability (IRPS) and has successfully written grants

for multiple local projects including The Rutabaga Project, which she co-founded. This initiative brings fresh, healthy local food to low-income residents on the Iron Range.

“We are also trying to recruit new, young farmers on the Iron Range through the Rutabaga Project,” she said.

Riffel also volunteers for Earth Fest and the Pasty Festival — annual events sponsored by the IRPS.

Additionally, Riffel is deeply involved in Growing Together, which supports five community gardens in Virginia’s food-challenged areas. She writes a newspaper column in the Hometown Focus featuring local farmers,

Dr.Edgar Saldana, board certified plastic surgeon, wishes to announce the opening of his private practice in Duluth, MN. The new office is located on the main floor in the historic Medical Arts building, downtown.

and is the founder and manager of the Virginia Farmer’s Market, which provides a weekly opportunity for local farmers to sell their produce.

Riffel supports LGBTQ youth and their families through hosting meetings and writing grants for Range Together for Youth. She has done fundraising for the restoration and maintenance of the Lyric Center for the Arts, a 1912 vaudeville theatre in downtown Virginia.

And, she belongs to the group Northern Progressives, which supports a social and political agenda through active participation in civic affairs. She also serves as an election judge.

Riffel was nominated for the Rosie award by Jody GuyKrulc, a fellow parishioner at Mesabi Unitarian Universalist Church.

Rosie award recipient.

“It was really a surprise to me,” she said. “It means that people appreciate what I do, and that’s so heartening.” D

Advisor yBanking for Women in Business

“If living with integrity means to behave in ways that are in harmony with your personal values, then Marlise Riffel represents the standard bearer of this fact,” the nomination said. “Marlise is a well-known figure in Virginia. In fact, it is rare to find someone who hasn’t heard of her good works in the areas of social change.

“She is seemingly tireless in her endeavor to create a local and sustainable food network on the Iron Range. She values the importance of providing a safe and accepting community for LGBTQ youth and their families. She values the importance of a vibrant and thriving artistic community. And Marlise values the need to drive positive change through civic action.

“Additionally, many Sundays, you can find her playing the organ or teaching religious education at Mesabi Unitarian Universalist Church, where she has been an active member since 2007.”

Riffel is delighted to be this year’s

“When I retired, I told myself I was going to help make this the best community I can”

~ Marlise Riffel”

Julie Dallmann &Katie Frank Business Bankers

Member FDIC

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

MASKS YOU CAN LOVE E

By Ann Klefstad

As of July 25, people in Minnesota are required to wear a face covering “in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces, unless alone,” according to the Minnesota Department of Health website.

Dock 5: Natalija Walbridge

Natalija Walbridge is a noted craftsperson, a designer and maker of handscreened bags, working out of her cottage on the harbor in Duluth. When the pandemic began, she was hard at work creating bags for the upcoming prestigious American Craft Show at the St. Paul Civic Center. Suddenly this show was cancelled.

As she heard more about the shortage of personal protection devices for health care workers, she decided to do what she could to fill the need. As she told an interviewer, “The recommendations were that homemade masks weren’t going to be useful,” she said. “Then the CDC updated their website to say that even a plain bandana is better than nothing. After I got over the shock of that, I realized that I can do better than that. I make bandanas. I have bandana fabric I can sew. I immediately dropped everything I was working on and committed to making masks full-time. My next question was how to make the best mask possible? What can I do to

So we all need masks — and people in Duluth have been wonderfully creative and forthcoming when it comes to creating these masks. Many started this effort back in March, when it became apparent that masks would help, and that there was a huge shortage of them.

What follows is a few stories about a few of these people . . . many others have also been working hard to provide masks to those who need them. Let’s celebrate the creativity and community goodwill and concern that goes into this effort.

Top: Dr. Andie models her scrub hat and mask, adorned with Viking dragons.

Bottom: Natalija Waldbridge sits at her machine where she sews masks.

One of the many prints available from Dock 5 is the “astronomy” line.

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan wear buffalo plaid and Ojibwe-patterned masks — hers is from https://indigenouslotus.square.site/product/floralmask/66?cs=true.

make it as functional as possible?”

Her friend and fellow fiber artist, Lila Boheland, developed a mask pattern to share with the sewing community. Dr. Andie, a local physician, is Lila’s daughter and helped develop the design.

“I have kept in touch with Dr. Andie throughout the last few months to keep informed of health care workers’ needs,” Walbridge said. “In addition to making and donating masks, I also made scrub hats. Dr. Andie asked for scrub hats that were cheerful to help patients feel more at ease with all the PPE gear (personal protective equipment). I’m proud to have been one of the many home sewers who helped support health care workers with homemade PPE from mid-March through mid-July.”

These hundreds of masks were not available to buy; Waldbridge donated them to healthcare workers and essential workers who needed them.

Now that the immediate PPE crisis is past, Waldbridge is selling her beautiful masks for the rest of us, on the Dock 5 website: www.dock-5.com. An incredible range of prints and screened designs mean that the masks are fashion accessories, as well as necessary for health.

Hannah Johnson Fabrics: Janet Anelli

“People were coming out of the woodwork” to help with the mask-making initiative this spring, said Janet Anelli, proprietor of Hannah Johnson Fabrics in Lakeside. Her store became a nexus for the effort; this may be because of the influence of the store’s namesake, Janet’s grandmother, Hannah Johnson, whom the store website describes this way: “Hannah continues to inspire us with her legacy of determination, creativity, and courage. . . . . When Hannah was in her early twenties and with three small children she was in an automobile accident that left her wheelchairbound. Being the strong, determined woman she was before the accident only made her stronger and more determined. . . . She sewed, she cooked, she baked, she knitted, she crocheted and she truly enjoyed doing those things because she brought love, creativity and talent to everything she made.”

Asking Anelli about the whole mask adventure, it becomes evident that this was a true community effort by the sewing community.

“Dr. Andrea Bohland, one of the ER doctors in Duluth, came up with the idea of making masks, and her mother, Lila Bohland, worked with her to design the pattern. Then a website owner, thimblesandacorns.com, digitized the pattern. Now we give the pattern away.”

Anelli said you can get a pdf of the pattern by email or

Continued on page 24

Janet Anelli of Hannah Johnson Fabrics helps Kiera with her fabric selection.

you can pick up a printout at the store.

“I’ve printed reams and reams of them,” she said. Nathan Bentley (of Bentleyville fame) ordered a pallet of elastic from China, so they could give elastic to mask makers. One customer who has a laser cutter, James Harrison of Lakeside, cut out hundreds of the masks. Minnesota Power put together hundreds of kits to give to employees to sew.

“We gave much of this away, but some people would give us donations, which we passed on to St. Lukes, or to CHUM. CHUM told us that with so many people out of work, they had many more people to feed, so these donations were very helpful,” she said.

Now, people come to buy fabric for making masks for their families. The many wonderful and whimsical prints available in the store mean that anyone can find a subject that fits a family member’s affinities, from forest animals to flowers to fish, and on and on. On the day of this interview, the Duluth city councilor who sponsored the mask ordinance for the Duluth, Terese Tomanek, came in to buy fabric for police department masks: all navy blue.

Frost River: Chris Benson

Chris Benson, the owner of Frost River Trading Company, has made carefully crafted canvas and leather goods for outdoor adventure for years. The store in the Lincoln Park neighborhood has become a favorite neighborhood fixture. But when the coronavirus pandemic hit, the store had to close.

Beyond that, Benson had an up close and personal view of the desperate need for PPE for medical staff. His wife is an anesthesiologist at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth. She saw the shortage coming, and told him that the first thing taught to medical students was how to protect patients, and yourself, from contagion. The couple also knew that they needed to protect their family.

Benson explained that St. Luke’s and Essentia hospitals in Duluth have been supplying Frost River with the material used for covering surgical equipment. Trays with sterilized instruments are wrapped in this fabric to keep the tools clean until the point of surgery. After the tools are removed, the wrap becomes waste and is thrown in the trash.

Frost River makes PPE out of this cloth that would otherwise be

wasted: they converted their sales floor into a production center for PPE, and have been supplying the hospitals with much-needed masks and gowns. These PPEs are not available to the general public; instead, they protect our professionals.

Katharine Johnson, writer of Saami historical fiction

Many individuals have been creating personalized masks for family and friends.

Katharine Johnson, the author of The Wind and the Drum, a historical novel about Finnish Saami life, chose Finnish fabric maker Marimekko for masks for her family. She has been a teacher and writer who grew up on a rocky farm on the Mesabi Iron Range of northern Minnesota; her grandparents emigrated from Finland. https://katharinejohnsonbooks.com

Ivy Vainio, Duluth photographer and AICHO staff

Ivy Vainio’s dragonfly mask was made by her husband, Dr. Arne Vainio, an Anishinaabe tribal member and physician, and also a writer and fixer of tractors and old cars.

“My husband made me his first cloth face mask on his Finnish grandmother’s 1906 Singer model 27 treadle sewing machine during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she explained. “I love dragonflies as they are so unique, and symbolize change and transformation. I have several face masks, and this of course is the one most special to me. It is a gift of health and life every time I wear it.” D

Ann Kelfstad is a Duluth freelance writer.

Material by the Finnish fabric maker Marimekko is used by Northlander Katharine Johnson to produce masks for family and friends.

An employee at Frost River Trading Company sews masks which are supplied to hospitals.

By Abigail Blonigen

protocols of wearing a mask when out in public, maintaining at least six feet of distance between yourself and others when possible, frequent handwashing and staying home when feeling ill.

Grocery shopping

Super One Foods: Super One has a specified shopping time for those most at-risk, specifically seniors, expectant mothers, those with underlying health conditions and immunocompromised individuals, according to their website. These hours are from open until 8 a.m., with most stores opening at 6 a.m. This allows folks to be the first to shop after overnight cleaning.

Whole Foods Co-op: Similar to Super One, Whole Foods Co-op has reserved their first hour of opening for those who are atrisk, from 9-10 a.m. They also offer delivery and curbside pickup through Instacart.

Exercise

BoomerAge Duluth: BoomerAge is a group of adults over 50 that focuses on active aging through outdoor fitness. Due to the pandemic, the group has capped events at 10 people and has ensured their activities can be done while social distancing. Find their group on meetup.com

Essentia Wellness Center : The Essentia Wellness Center is hosting outdoor fitness walks for seniors every Wednesday from 9-10 a.m. through mid-October. The group meets at 8:50 a.m. in the northwest corner of the Hermantown center. Register at duluthymca.org. For those comfortable working out in an exercise facility, the YMCA also offers a variety of “Active Older Adult” (AOA) classes.

Personal Care

The Colour Lounge Salon: The Colour Lounge Salon has implemented a detailed guest and stylist safety plan including regular cleaning between each client, acquiring appropriate personal protective equipment, and recertifying their team on infection control and hygiene practices, according to their website. They also encourage folks to wait

in their car if they arrive early and arrive with clean, dry hair in order to spend less time in the chair.

London Rayne Salon: London Rayne has also detailed their health and safety policies on their website with an emphasis on disinfection practices. In addition, the salon will not be offering any facial waxing appointments at this time, the windows will be open for ventilation, and payment must be contactless.

Pet Care

Passion Fur Pets

Grooming: In order to limit contact between staff and customers, Passion Fur Pets has installed a gate system outside of their front door to safely and securely drop off pets without owners needing to enter the building. Canal Bark: Specializing in boarding,

London Rayne Salon on London Road has implemented a number of procedures for client safety during the pandemic.

grooming and training, Canal Bark has reduced their drop off and pick up hours from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. for the safety of their patrons and staff. Canal Bark is also employing “curbside pickup” in which an employee meets the owner at their car to transfer the animal.

Movies

Zinema 2.0 Virtual Cinema: Zeitgeist’s Zinema 2 movie theater has moved to a virtual format, with rentals available at zeitgeistarts.com/zinema. The Zinema will be routinely adding films in one of five categories: New Releases, Social Justice, Arts, Retro and International. The physical theater space is also available for private party rentals.

The West Theater : The West Theater in Spirit Valley is open at the allowed 25 percent capacity. Their website ensures rigorous cleaning of the space and temperature checks for all employees and customers. They encourage advance reservations to ensure the correct number of

Passion Fur Pets in Hermantown has set up a kennel system so clients can drop off their pets without entering the building.

The Zinema movie theater in downtown Duluth has a new virtual cinema for movie rentals on their website. The physical space is also available for private parties.

“buffer seats” between patrons. The West is also available for private rentals.

Education

Computer Skills: With more aspects of daily life shifting to an online format because of COVID-19, computer literacy is more important now than ever. The Adult Learning Center and Duluth Workforce Center partner to provide tutors to strengthen computer skills, with the opportunity to earn a Northstar Digital Literacy certificate. Call 218-336-8790 to learn more about classes and registration.

University for Seniors: The University of Minnesota-Duluth’s University for Seniors offers eightweek-long terms in a variety of courses, including “current events, history, philosophy, science, art, poetry, literature, exercise” and more, according to their website. Learn more and register at university-seniors.d.umn.edu.

Hobbies

Boredom Buster : Proctor Hermantown Community Education is offering an online class for Fall 2020 geared toward alleviating boredom for seniors during the pandemic. Once a month through December, participants will be mailed materials such as word puzzles, trivia and stretching exercises. Register at ph.ce. eleyo.com.

Rubber Stamped Greeting Cards: Also a Proctor Hermantown Community Ed course, this greeting card class sends participants the supplies necessary to create five unique greeting cards. Registration includes an instructional video so folks can craft in the comfort of their own home. D

Abigail Blonigen is a Duluth freelance writer and photographer.

BoomerAge Duluth promotes active aging, connection

By Abigail Blonigen

Eating right and staying active are often what comes to mind when considering what it means to have a healthy lifestyle. However, another crucial aspect to a healthy life — brought to light by the isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic — is human connection and social interaction.

Judy Gordon started the group BoomerAge Duluth in 2014, about a year after her husband passed away. She was looking for people her age who shared the same active lifestyle and enjoyed being outdoors.

“I didn’t want to go hiking in the woods by myself,” she said.

Gordon searched the online event platform Meetup for an outdoorsy group, but didn’t find one in the area that did the type of activities she wanted to do, so she decided to create her own.

She made the group age specific so it would be an opportunity for baby boomers to connect and to show the

community would accommodate differing levels of ability.

“BoomerAge was formed to bring together adults over the age of 50 interested in getting and staying physically fit and to promote the concept of active aging,” reads their Meetup page. “We are committed to improving the quality of life for a new generation of seniors.”

Gordon chose Meetup as a platform because it makes it easy for members to post an event without having to call several friends to get a group together.

“If you’re looking for someone to go for a hike, walk or paddle with, you don’t have to call five friends to see who wants to go with. You can just throw it out there and whoever wants to do it can join you,” said Gordon.

The fitness group grew quickly at first, and has been a consistent community for several years. There are currently 52 members on the Meetup site, with about 15 people making up the core group, ages ranging from 60 to 75.

Gordon attributes the success of BoomerAge to members taking on the initiative to host meetups. Because the responsibility of organizing events is shared, “BoomerAge has provided a full calendar of fitness activities for members including but not limited to: hiking, walking, biking, tennis, and pickleball, skiing, skating, rock climbing, snowshoeing and dancing” since its inception, according to their page.

“Each one of us has a niche for some kind of fitness,” said Michelle Stebbins, another member of the group. Stebbins was injured at the age of 40, resulting in several surgeries and mobility restrictions.

“I joined BoomerAge and it totally got me back up and

Judy Gordon started the group BoomerAge Duluth on Meetup, a site geared toward group events.

SOMET IMES ALL YOU NEED IS A NEW PERSPECTI VE

on my feet,” she said.

Now in her 60s, Stebbins has been a member of the group for about five years, with her niche being adaptive fitness.

“I would say, ‘Okay you guys are doing eight miles. I’m not sure I’m up to that yet, but at what point can I meet you?’ So instead of saying I can’t do that, I say what can I do?” said Stebbins.

Stebbins recalled a kayaking trip where she was partnered with a woman who had a visual impairment and could not drive. Due to Stebbins’ knee and back problems, she cannot lift a kayak.

“I drive her car, and she lifts my kayak. Instead of saying no, we just figure out how to do it,” she said.

Because the group is age specific, members are accommodating and understanding of each others’ limits.

“In the years since we’ve started, we’ve gotten older,” said Gordon. “A number of us have had hip surgeries — I’ve had hip surgery and shoulder surgery — o we’re not quite as eager to do as much as we did before, but we’re trying to stay active and healthy.”

Both Gordon and Stebbins emphasized how important it is to have a community geared toward physical activity, for camaraderie, accountability and just plain fun.

“It’s all about endorphins, in my opinion,” said Stebbins, who has been able to manage her chronic pain through exercise.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BoomerAge has shifted some of their events, as many of the members are

considered to be at higher risk. Their weekly current events group has moved from Valentini’s to Zoom, which has actually allowed more people to participate.

Fortunately, most of the group’s events are outside, but they’ve been mindful to cap attendance at 10 people, masking and social distancing as appropriate. Gordon has also been teaching Zumba classes via Facebook live once or twice a week as a means for people to get active while staying at home.

BoomerAge is always looking for new members, especially those who are willing to host meetups. One can join by making a profile on meetup.com, searching for BoomerAge Duluth, and requesting to join. There is a $15 per year membership fee to pay for the organizer cost of hosting the site, but creating a profile is free.

For those who are interested in incorporating more physical activity in their lives but are unsure where to start, Gordon said, “I would tell people to walk at least a little every day. I would suggest that they try combining fitness with their social activities. Instead of just going out to eat or drink with friends, go for a walk together first, and then go out to eat or drink.”

Stebbins echoed the social aspect of exercise.

“Find someone to join you. Motivation is contagious,” she said. D

Your Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons and their team are ready to assist you in making the best decisions for a healthy mouth and lasting smile. We have a wide scope practice to offer, including:

•Dental Implants

•Wisdom Teeth Extraction

•Corrective Jaw Surgery

•Financing Available/CareCredit

Abigail Blonigen is a Duluth freelance writer and photographer.

BoomerAge members go for a hike along Tischer Creek in Duluth. • Dr. Paul K. Hodapp

Dr. Scott K. Varland

Dr. Nathan A. Jarnot

Dr. Nathan A. Jarnot

Dr. Eric Scotland, DDS

Dr. Scott K. Varland

Screening key to early detection of breast cancer

By Louie St. George III

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to dominate headlines and have profound impacts on everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of and neglect other health concerns. But now, perhaps more than ever, preventive care — such as mammogram screening — is vitally important.

The statistics are sobering. According to the American Cancer Society, women in the United States are more likely to be afflicted by breast cancer than any other cancer, excluding skin cancers. This year alone, it’s expected to kill more than 42,000 U.S. women, who have about a 13% chance of developing breast cancer sometime in their lives.

These numbers highlight the need to stay vigilant.

Essentia Health tries to make that as easy as possible for its patients. The Essentia Health Breast Program emphasizes screening and early detection. And Essentia’s breast centers, like the one in downtown Duluth, offer state-of-the-art breast-imaging services, including 3D and digital mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI and breast biopsies.

“Research shows that early detection services, such as breast cancer screening, are a proven method of increasing early diagnosis and associated medical care outcomes,” said Jennifer Dobbs, operations administrator for hematology and oncology at Essentia.

Systemwide, Essentia screens 26,000 women a year. This is critical work that aligns with the health care provider’s commitment to make a healthy difference in people’s lives. Its patients — and their loved ones — deserve peace of mind. And, if breast cancer is detected, the goal is to immediately start treating it with a customized care plan.

Essentia also features a high-risk breast cancer program for women especially vulnerable to the disease.

“The Essentia Health High-Risk Breast Cancer Program is a specialized part of the breast health program that is focused

Essentia Health does everything it can to promote and facilitate early detection of breast cancer, including regular screenings. This gives women — and their loved ones — peace of mind.

on helping patients understand their risk of developing breast cancer,” Dobbs said. “After a thorough history, examination and education session, patients and the breast health program clinician partner together to form a personalized plan of care.”

Broadly, Essentia recommends annual mammograms for women between the ages of 40 and 75. After 75, patients and their care providers should determine a plan for future screening.

Specific to the high-risk program, evaluations are recommended for women with:

• Close relatives on the same side of the family who have dealt with breast cancer.

• A mother, sister or daughter who has been diagnosed with breast cancer by age 50.

• Two first-degree relatives who have had breast cancer at any age.

• A close male relative who has had breast cancer.

As well as:

• If you or a close family member have an abnormal gene that increases the risk of breast cancer.

• Anyone who has had a breast biopsy with abnormal cells, such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, atypical lobular hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ.

• If you have had radiation treatments to the chest area under the age of 30 for Hodgkin’s disease or lymphoma.

The thought of getting breast cancer is unnerving. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to decrease your risk level. These include things like leading an active

lifestyle; maintaining a healthy body weight; limiting alcohol use; refraining from smoking; limiting menopausal hormone use; and breastfeeding, if you can.

Essentia is ready to support you and believes strongly in educating and empowering patients. The more you know, the more prepared you will be to confront a breast cancer diagnosis.

“Offering a high-risk breast cancer program is part of Essentia Health’s comprehensive breast program to meet the needs of our patients,” Dobbs said.

The Essentia Health Breast Program actively participates in breast cancer-related research studies. Consequently, its patients have access to medications that aren’t yet widely available. Additionally, its breast centers are recognized by the American College of Surgeons’ National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, for providing top-quality care to their patients. They also are recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.

Further, the Essentia Health Breast Center was a PRC “Excellence in Healthcare” award winner in 2020, receiving a five-star rating for overall quality of care. D

Louie St. George III is a media relations specialist at Essentia Health.w

By Annie Lepper

The holiday giving season is well underway and with it comes with the bonanza of holiday shopping. While some people thrive for the thrill of the gift hunt, others cringe with the additional stress this time has on our wallets. Add on top of holiday gifts the increase in entertaining this time of year and heating bills, and this season can be brutal on many budgets.

How can you make the season a little merrier on your checking account? Naturally, planning in advance for the holiday season with setting money aside year-round is the most logical answer. And if it’s too late for that — well, you’ll need a game plan.

Take a page from Santa’s book for gift giving

Make a list and check it twice. Actually check it five times. List everyone you’d like to give a gift to this year. After you have your people, list what you’d like to give them. If you can’t figure out exactly what to give, try to at least whittle it down to the dollar amount you’d like to keep their gift amount around.

Pare it down the list. Do you really need to give to some of the folks on the list? Do you really need to give at

Budgeting and planning for the holidays

the dollar level or extravagance level you have them listed at? Many times we feel obligated to give elaborate or expensive gifts for no reason other than we feel we ought to. In this season, it truly is the thought that counts for most people. Perhaps for your cousin you see only at Christmas dinner, you scale it down from a $25 coffee shop gift card to a pound of locally roasted coffee. Same concept — even more lovely to get the pound of coffee when you think about it — but more budget friendly.

Once you have your list of people and things down to a comfortable level, it’s time for the hard part. Sticking to the list. It’s tempting to overspend with the shops looking so decorative, and all the beautiful displays, and the cheap price tags. Don’t let the festive atmosphere steer you away from your list! Going in with a game plan is the best way to keep yourself on track and on budget.

For the crafty elves out there

For the DIY-ers out there, this is your season to shine. With the advent of sites like Pinterest and Etsy, handmade gifts or offering your skills as a gift has never been more in demand. While it may seem like making items as gifts is the economical route, it might not always be the case. The same budget rules apply — make sure you take into account your materials costs before going all out to make something special for someone. Make a list and

stick with it when you’re out shopping for your supplies.

Entertain like Scrooge (sort of)

There never seems to be a shortage of get-togethers this time of year — time will tell what 2020’s holiday season has in store in this regard. When it comes to going out, be mindful of how much you’re spending. It’s tempting to offer to buy an entire meal or round of drinks, but that adds up rather quickly. Mentally budget for a certain dollar amount per outing and stick with it. Whether that means a meal and a drink or two drinks and an appetizer to share, it’s up to you.

For entertaining at your house, enlist the help of your guests. Most people love to bake at Christmas time and want to share their creations. And many people would gladly make a side dish, or at the very least bring wine or flowers to a gathering in lieu of having to take over hosting duties. Not only would this save you money, but save you in time and anxiety.

The holidays are a special time of year which we all love and look forward to. Going in with a spending plan for gifts and events will help you enjoy the holiday with your budget intact. D

Annie Lepper is vice president of operations/marketing for Minnesota Power Employees’ Credit Union (MPECU).

Neighbor sHelpingNeighbor s Figh tHunger

Real Living® Messina &Associates recently made donations to five local charity organizations who help fight hunger in our local communities.

•CHUM Food Shelf

•Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank

•GND Development Alliance

•Damiano Center

•Two Harbors Food Shelf

Carol Carlson

Julie Carlson

Steve Carlson

Carrie Dittmar

Nicole Conrad

Cheryl Ekstrand Brenna Fahlin

Luke Hansmeyer

Gage Hartman

Valarie Lake

JeffLeusman Alicia Lokke

Michael Messina

Deb Messina

Mary Beth Nevers

Kevin O’Brien

Sherri Pearson

Deanna Bennett

Karen Reed River Rockenstein

Katie Robinson

Casey Scrignoli Eric Sams

Frank Messina

Chad Jones

Jarett Mickelson

Dee Furo

Julia Shepersky

Christi Slattengren

Jason Watters

Amy Olson

Jim Gruba

Amanda Broman Ayla Dougherty

Brian Rud

Chloe Olejar

Darrin Young

Shelby Schaust Tanya Templer

Gigi Maxwell

Jody Tucker

Jeanne Tondryk

Matt Privette Scott Buckingham

Kimberly Powell

St. Luke’s opens medical spa

Services and products to help you look and feel your best

By Claire Kiger

Aday at the spa can do wonders.

From waxing to facials, spas offer services that refresh and enhance a person’s natural beauty, helping them feel more confident in their own skin as they take on the world. A medical spa serves exactly the same purpose, while also offering some significant additional benefits. However, not everyone is aware of what these additional benefits are.

“Hearing the term ‘medical spa’ for the first time can be intimidating,” said Michelle Sturm, licensed advanced practice esthetician (LAPE) at St. Luke’s Rejuvenation Center. “People sometimes assume it means our services are extra expensive or more invasive, but that’s not necessarily true.”

Formerly part of St. Luke’s Plastic Surgery Associates, St. Luke’s Rejuvenation Center provides a full range of medical spa services, and Sturm is excited to show patients all that a medical spa has to offer.

The benefits of a medical spa

“At a medical spa, patients will receive medical-grade products and services in a spa setting,” Sturm said. “That means they’ll see noticeable results more quickly.”

St. Luke’s Rejuvenation Center

offers a full range of services, depending on what skin concerns a person wants to address, including:

• Laser treatments for fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, acne, scarring, spider veins, skin tightening, rosacea and hair removal

• SkinPen treatments

• Microdermabrasion

• Chemical peels

• Facials

• Face and body waxing

• Eyebrow waxing and tinting

• High-end makeup and skincare products

• Makeup application and instruction

• Injectables and fillers to be available in the near future

Another benefit is the level of training the staff receives.

“An LAPE is a step above a regular esthetician’s license,” Sturm explained, “and in order to offer skin care services in a medical facility in the state of Minnesota, that is now the

required license. For our patients, that means experience and training resulting in knowledgeable, expert care.”

Finally, being in a medical facility enables collaboration with physicians and specialists who are always available when needed.

“If I come across a skin condition that would be better assessed by a physician, I’ll recommend the patient to someone at St. Luke’s Dermatology Associates,” Sturm said. “If someone comes in with spider veins, I’ll recommend them to St. Luke’s Vascular Surgery Associates before I tackle the cosmetic side. There are so many resources available to our patients because we’re part of a healthcare system.”

Treatments for everyone, in every season

No matter what issues a patient may want to address, everything starts with a free consultation. These can happen either virtually or in-person, and help the licensed esthetician

Michelle Sturm, Licensed Advanced Practice Esthetician at St. Luke’s Rejuvenation Center, is the most experienced laser technician north of the Twin Cities.

understand more about the patient.

“We will go over their skin and what bothers them most,” Sturm explained, “then give them options, including both products and treatments that will help them achieve their goals for healthy, youthful skin.”

Treatment recommendations tend to change with the seasons. In the fall the Sciton BroadBand Light (BBL) treatments and chemical peels are especially popular, addressing sunspots and other skin damage from the summer sun. In the winter, exfoliation treatments and hydrating facials are often recommended because they help remove dead skin cells and add moisture back into the skin.

The Center also has a few special treatments available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“People have been struggling with acne related to maskwearing,” Sturm said. “So, we are offering mask-ne (mask acne) treatments. These involve facials focused on cleansing the skin and reducing inflammation, as well as products patients can use on a daily basis at home to keep that area looking and feeling healthy.”

Virtual facials are also now available. These are done by sending products to a patient’s home, and then walking them through how to use them via a video visit.

“That way, if they are at home doing distance learning

with their kids, for example, they can still take care of their skin with high quality products,” Sturm said.

Skincare solutions at St. Luke’s

The Center serves a wide range of people and addresses a host of different issues, and the staff is always ready to help new patients. While Sturm typically sees more female than male patients, she hopes to help more men in the future.

“I see quite a few gentlemen for rosacea. It would be great to get more in for facials and other treatments as well,” Sturm said. “We have some great regimens designed specifically for men.”

Prices vary from $15 eyebrow waxes to $350 chemical peels, and include everything in between.

“It all depends on what a patient is looking for in terms of results and the down time they have available,” Sturm said. “Our treatments are very reasonably priced and they can easily fit into any budget.”

To learn more about St. Luke’s Rejuvenation Center or to schedule a free consultation, visit slhduluth.com/ rejuvenation or call 218-249-7910. D

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

Samantha Roffers, a Moose Lake writer, believes it’s important to shop for things you love and feel comfortable in. Everyone’s style is unique and that’s what makes it so special.

By Samantha Roffers

Hellodear readers! By the time you’re reading this it will be fall, which is absolutely insane. Our gorgeous Minnesota summers seem to pass in the blink of an eye. Summer is, hands down, my favorite season, but I am a total sucker for fall as well.

One of the main reasons I love fall so much, aside from the beautiful leaves and warm apple cider, is fall fashion. Fall outfits are a great way to mix summer blouses and tanks with cardigans, light jackets and sweaters. You can retire the sandals, relax on the pedicures and play with boots, booties and sneakers. All too soon we’ll be wearing as many layers as we can and swapping fashion boots for snow boots, so let’s enjoy the crisp and snowless days while we can.

Advertising director Megan Keller and I had such a wonderful time at our local Maurices putting these outfits together and there was certainly no shortage of beautiful pieces. It felt fantastic to partake in a little retail therapy and actually get my hands on my online finds.

I hope you find some inspiration for your own fall looks from our finds! D

by Sam

The first look I put together was this comfy and casual one. I paired this adorable red graphic tee with a light camo button up and distressed jeans. Camo goes with so many different colors and can easily be dressed up or down. The sneakers were a great casual touch and very comfy! These KanCan jeans stayed on through all of my outfits changes. They were recommended to me by Miah who swore up and down the comfort of them is unlike any other — and she was right! They felt as comfortable as pajama pants but have a thick, quality denim feel.

2 4 3

This look screams fall! It is full of vibrant fallish colors and it has a great layering setup, perfect for a cool morning going to work and a warm afternoon. The olive shirt underneath has a little longer sleeve and covers your bottom. It can easily be worn without the cardigan and paired with cute jeans or yoga pants. This cardigan was so perfectly cozy and it has an adorable scalloped hem along the front and a lace up detail in the back. You could pair this cardigan with a ton of different tanks, tees and even dresses making it very versatile for work or play.

This second look is my personal favorite. I adore flowy kominos and wear them often. It is so easy to wear them in summer, spring and fall with a tank or tee. You can even bring them into winter paired with a long sleeve. The colors in this one were stunning and went perfectly with this beautiful mint tank top. How great is that neckline? I paired the look with the KanCan jeans and these adorable booties. They are a perfect fall shoe and can easily go from work to date night to play! They were very comfortable, which is a huge thing for me — if I’m not comfy, I’m not happy, and it’s hard to look your best when you’re not happy.

When I put this shirt on I instantly felt like a princess! It is such a romantic top and absolutely perfect for a fall date night. When I initially grabbed it off the rack I thought it was a tank top, so I was pleasantly surprised when I tried it on. This top is perfect to show off your summer tan and can be worn with many different bottoms and shoes. You could easily pair this top with shorts and sandals for a fun late summer look. Buy it now and bring it along for any warm winter destinations you may be thinking about. This top is a great mix of beachy, boho and romantic…plus it doesn’t cling so it’s very comfortable and flattering. I paired it with booties, the KanCan jeans and a cute little necklace.

North Shore remodel gives couple contemporary lakeside cabin home

By Alison Stucke

An extensive remodel gave this husband-and-wife couple just what they wanted in a home set only 40 feet from Lake Superior in the Two Harbors area. They demolished everything but the outline of the existing house and worked with architectural designer Heather Hiner and Tim Anderson Construction of Knife River to create a space that brought in lake views and light.

Attracted to the quieter lifestyle of northern Minnesota, the couple had been living in the Twin Cities when the husband took a job in Duluth. The wife is a professional artist who was inspired to establish a studio in a Lake Superior residence.

They had looked at many North Shore properties when they found the right spot to call home.

“It’s very private, just under 10 acres, with flat topography,” said the wife. “You can walk onto the water without scaling huge cliffs.”

Their newly-remodeled single-level home on the property is contemporary in style yet traditional in its peaceful, natural environment.

“I call it ‘contemporary lakeside cabin,’” she said. “It has that sort of feel to it.”

The kitchen of this North Shore home features quarter sawn white oak floors, gray-stained oak cabinetry, and an eye-catching island with a quartz countertop accented by a floating wood bar waterfall designed by the homeowner.

The sleek clean lines of the cabinets and hardware keep the laundry area, featuring a stacked washer and dryer, neat and organized.

Anderson said.

Lake Superior provided surprises of its own throughout the building process.

“Working right next to Lake Superior presented us with challenges,” Anderson said. “There were huge

An extensive remodel

The original house the couple found on the property needed work — so much that they decided on an extensive remodel. The remodelers/owners kept the footprint (i.e. the outline) of the existing house and remodeled with a design based on their wishes to capture as much natural light and as many lake views as possible.

“We kept the shape of the house, and we did an addition,” the wife explained. “Heather Hiner walked through the existing house. We said what we wanted to happen. We wanted the side facing the lake to be open. She did a beautiful job with that. The bedrooms and baths have doors, but everything else is open.”

“This home sits on a beautiful stretch of Lake Superior shoreline,” said Hiner. “The existing layout did little to capture the amazing lake views. Along with the dated interior, the homeowners were receptive to a major renovation.”

Building on

Lake

Superior Building began. The husband was living on the property in another building, so he was there to provide support and answer any questions that Anderson had.

“Working with Ed, who is quite a craftsman himself, not only was enjoyable but he was able to address any questions quickly which helped the project move smoothly,”

The enlarged living room features three-sided views of Lake Superior, thanks to the large windows and sliding door onto the deck. The dining table and eight chairs, built by the homeowner, feature a contemporary design with sculpted wrought iron legs. Sitting just off the kitchen, the area is bathed in natural light by more large windows trimmed in black.

storms and it was very cold. As soon as we started the addition to the existing building the weather changed drastically.”

However, teamwork overcame all obstacles and challenges.

“Some obstacles we came across with using the original footprint were installing in-floor heat, insulating

In their extensive remodel, the homeowners kept the original footprint of the home but increased the square footage with an addition for studio space and enlarged garage. The front entry was completely rebuilt and features exposed wooden beams. They used all new materials for the exterior and installed a metal roof.

crawl spaces, and redesigning the roof,” Anderson said. “To create the beautiful home as it is now, the homeowners, Heather and I were able to work together to utilize the existing structure.

“The addition was a studio with an expanded garage,” he continued. “The front living area was redesigned and rebuilt as well as front entry.”

An open-concept space

The divided spaces of kitchen, living room and dining room in the original structure needed updating.

“The kitchen was closed off from the rest of the house with only a small cutout at the sink looking through the adjacent living room toward the lake and only a narrow door opening into the dining room,” Hiner said.

A major goal of the remodel was to create an “openconcept” space to bring together all three rooms into one large area.

Quarter sawn white oak floors and peaked ceiling in the living room provide additional unity.

Light fixtures and ceiling fans are contemporary and simple in design, featuring mostly black wrought iron and glass. All the windows have black trim surrounding. Walls are painted in blues (reminiscent of the lake and sky) and taupe colors. These colors reoccur throughout the home.

“It’s very calming,” said the wife. “My husband and I selected all the materials — sinks, outlet covers, everything.”

The dining room is a lovely open space facing the water. The enlarged living room includes an area with a gas stove that looks like a wood stove with a black pearl granite base on the wood flooring.

Off the kitchen is a walk-in pantry and an open office space.

A wall of windows with focus on Lake Superior

Another dream was to place a wall of windows on the lake side of the living room.

Continued on page 44

The master bedroom, which faces Lake Superior, features recessed lighting, oak floors and a large walk-in closet. The contemporary bathroom has a large concrete sink that sits on a cabinet made by the homeowner and flanked by two floating cabinets. It also features a spacious walk-in tiled shower and separate toilet space.

A spacious office painted a calming blue, to mimic the lake and sky, is located just off the kitchen, while the newlycreated artist’s studio has plenty of space for the homeowner’s printmaking equipment. It’s infused with natural light and inspirational views of the big lake.

“The project also involved removing interior walls to create an open layout with expansive windows to achieve the amazing lake views that the house deserved,” Hiner said “Amazing sunrises, rainbows, all the good,” said the wife, describing the views given by the windows that make the living room seem to extend outside to the ipe (Brazilian walnut) wood deck and then to the lake.

“You feel like you’re sitting outside when you’re in the living room,” she said. “It kind of extends out to the deck.”

An inspiring art studio for the wife

Near the kitchen of the home is the studio where the wife, an artist, creates her works. This studio was an important element of the remodel.

“In addition to opening up the

floor plan, they had a unique request for a large art studio that would have views to the lake with lots of natural sunlight,” Hiner said. “The design solution that I suggested for the studio was to move the overhead garage door and driveway from the side to the front of the garage, which allowed for the new studio to be added where the garage entry and parking apron had been.”

The wife appreciates the design and the convenience of her studio, as well as the inspiration offered by the lake views.

“I’m a printmaker,” she explained. “Heather worked with me to design the studio, and it turned out very nice. It has a view of the lake, high ceilings, and a concrete-style tile floor. I don’t even have to walk down a hallway and I get to work.”

The couple enjoys featuring

Continued on page 46

Locally owned and operated by the Pearson Brothers

works of art in their new home.

“We collect art, so we have sculptures and works of art from other artists intermixed with some of my works,” she explained.

Woodwork by the husband

The husband is a woodworker in his free time. Their home also showcases many pieces that he has created.

“My husband built the dining room table,” she said. “It’s a contemporary design with sculpted wrought iron legs, and the table surface has end grain wood on the sides and a large wood plank down the middle, with eight chairs all created by him.”

The kitchen island has a waterfall quartz countertop with a floating wood bar designed by the husband. The cabinets are a simple design that are an oak stained gray from Bertch. Kitchen appliances, including a gas stove, are by Wolf from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery of Duluth.

Master and guest bedroom

Off the dining room, the master bedroom faces the lake side. It includes recessed lighting, a deck, a large walk-in closet, and a contemporary bathroom with a concrete sink (sitting on a cabinet made by the husband and surrounded by two floating cabinets), separate toilet room, and tiled walk-in shower.

The guest bedroom faces away from the lake and features an en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, ceramic countertop with floating sink on a wood counter made by the husband.

The home also includes a two-car garage with decorative flake epoxy flooring, and a small basement with storage space, a workout area, and extra studio space.

Outside the home

“In addition to all new interior finishes that lend toward a more modern style, the exterior also got a facelift with new materials to replace the old cedar siding and forest green window cladding,” said Hiner. “A newly designed porch at the front entry welcomes guests as they enter this ‘old but new’ home!”

The wife said she has enjoyed watching the sun rise over the lake each morning since they moved into their home in September 2019. She said no matter what kind of dwelling they placed on this beautiful spot, they couldn’t go wrong. D

Alison Stucke is a Duluth freelance writer.

Ros(i)e Cookies

By Megan Keller The Woman Today

It’s July 15, and I am on my way to the Mesabi Unitarian Universalists Church in Virginia, Minn., to present the Rosie Award to Marlise Reiffel. It’s a beautifully hot and windy day, and three of us are here for the presentation –advertising representative Ali Carlson, video- and photographer Alex Comstock, and me. As I park my car, I see a large group of ladies congregating outside the church. Everyone is dressed so nicely and full of laughter and smiles. Marlise has no idea that we are actually presenting her with her award.

What an honor it was to be able to be there that day! After the presentation was complete, photos and video were done, the group gathered for some cookies and refreshments. Ali and I peered down at this plate of colorful cookies – and we were not going to decline a homemade cookie. These delightful, colorful cookies were so buttery and tasty, they just melted in your mouth. Ali and I went back for seconds, thirds…. maybe fourths! We asked the group who made these delicious bite-sized cookies, and the response was, “This is Claudia Skalko’s recipe. She is a magician!”

We were able to get Claudia’s recipe, from the cookbook “Christmas Gifts from the Kitchen” by Jean Paré, so we could share them with you. It was so fitting that she made rose-shaped cookies for the Rosie Award presentation.

The recipe is for a rolled sugar cookie, but Claudia said to make them into cute flower shapes, “the petals are flattened balls formed on a stick,” but also said there are molds available for beginners.

I must say, this could be a new tradition for our annual Rosie event. This old fashioned recipe is simply timeless and delicious. D

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLAUDIA SKALKO

PHOTO COURTESY OF COMSTOCK CREATIVE

Basic Sugar Cookie

1 cup margarine (or butter), softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 egg yolks (large)

½ tsp vanilla

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp. salt

Basic Cookie Glaze

¾ cup icing (confectioner’s) sugar

1 Tbsp. milk

2 tsp. margarine (or butter), softened

¼ tsp. vanilla

Liquid (or paste) food coloring (see note)

Directions:

Cream margarine and sugar in a large bowl. Add egg yolks 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla. Beat until smooth.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a small bowl. Add to margarine mixture in 2 additions, mixing well after each addition until no dry flour remains. Divide dough in the shape of a ball. Flatten each ball into disc and wrap with plastic. Chill for 1 hour. Discard plastic wrap from 1 disc. Roll out dough between 2 sheets of wax paper about ⅛ inch thickness. Discard the top sheet of wax paper. Cut out shapes with lightly flowered 2 ½ inch cookie cutters. Roll out scraps to cut more shapes. Arrange about 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 6 to 8 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Let stand on cookie sheets for 5 minutes before removing to wire racks to cook completely. Cool cookie sheets between batches. Repeat with the remaining disc.

For the cookie glaze, beat the first 4 ingredients in a small bowl, adding more icing sugar or milk if necessary until barely pourable consistency.

Add food coloring 1 drop at a time, stirring well after each addition until desired color is reached. Makes about ¾ cup glaze. Spoon onto a paper cone, or use a small resealable plastic bag with a tiny piece snipped off corner. Drizzle glaze over each cookie. Makes 2 dozen cookies.

NOTE: For best results, use paste food coloring to make bolder colors. Use only a few drops of liquid food coloring to make softer colors.

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