inside...
* Women lead the way at Valvoline Instant Oil Change
* Kimberly Broman embarks on two global expeditions
* Becky Revier helps Duluth’s at-risk populations
Deb DeLuca
steers Duluth Seaway Port Authority into robust future
AspirusHealthiscommittedtoprovidingextraordinary caredeliveredwithexceptionalcompassiontopeople intheNorthland.
Helping Duluth’s at-risk populations
DeLuca is the executive director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.
Kate Van Daele
Top communications professional thrives under pressure
Patti Urbanski
thriving with diabetes and helping others along the way
Kimberly Broman Elementary teacher embarking on two global expeditions
The Women of Valvoline Female employees are common at Hermantown service center
Arts and Entertainment Calendar
Aspirus St. Luke’s From fractures to freedom: How one woman found holistic healing
the experts with all your women’s health needs
GROUP PUBLISHER
NEAL RONQUIST EXECUTIVE EDITOR
RICK LUBBERS ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
ALI CARLSON
KIM QUINONES
SCOTT BLATCHFORD
ALIX CRAFT
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
MOLLIE BURLINGAME PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
JULIE SCHULZ CONTRIBUTORS
AMY CARLSON
ANDREA BUSCHE
DEB DELUCA
DULUTH SEAWAY PORT AUTHORITY
JANNA GOERDT
KIM QUINONES
KIMBERLY BROMAN
LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONSNATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
MOLLY MILROY
PATTI URBANSKI
RALPH LEE HOPKINS
DULUTH MEDIA GROUP
EMAIL CORRESPONDENCE TO: magazines@duluthnews.com
The Woman Today is published by Duluth News Tribune.
Mailed copies available for $32 per year (eight issues). Send check to The Woman Today®, PO Box 16046, Duluth, MN 55816-0046
ON THE COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB DELUCA
TO OUR READERS
Hello, Woman Today readers!
I’m writing this introduction column for the August/September issue of The Woman Today, just days after celebrating the Fourth of July. But part of my mind is already thinking about the October/ November issue!
That’s one of the major differences between newspaper and magazine work. Newspapers usually focus on the immediate — breaking news, what’s happening today and what took place last night. Sure, newspapers have long-term planning involved, but magazine planning spans weeks, months and even seasons with stories that are not as time-sensitive as newspaper articles.
So, while I am busy savoring this sweet summer, I am thinking about the stories we will publish this fall.
Thanks for picking up this issue of The Woman Today. We hope your summer has been going well, and we greatly appreciate you spending a part of this busy time with our magazine. Here are some of the stories we’re excited to share with you in this issue:
• You’ll meet Deb DeLuca, a talented leader whose steady hand steers the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.
• Valvoline Instant Oil Change service center on Haines Road in Hermantown has several women working in that maledominated industry. You’ll learn why they chose that profession and how “every single day, there are many positive comments from our guests about the number of women on our team.”
• Kimberly Broman is a second grade teacher who is traveling on two global expeditions this summer. Read about those exciting trips and what she hopes to share with her students this fall.
• In The Woman Yesterday feature, you’ll read about Amelia “Millie” Baker (1887-1915), an up-and-coming singer whose life was tragically cut short by the sinking of the Lusitania.
• Learn how to make a gnome planter!
Thanks for spending some of your time reading The Woman Today. Your readership is greatly appreciated
Rick Lubbers Executive editor, Duluth Media Group
Becky Revier
Helping Duluth's at-risk populations
By Janna Goerdt
Becky Revier knows exactly what full circle means.
As a social worker in touch with at-risk communities in Duluth, Revier can truly understand the difficult circumstances that lead people into a life of addiction or homelessness. These issues have been part of her experience for her entire life.
Revier grew up in Duluth’s Central Hillside neighborhood in the 1970s. Her own family was rocked by domestic violence and mental illness, with her stepfather displaying signs of schizophrenia, and Revier enduring abuse by a family friend.
“As I came into my teen years, I felt a lot of anger and rebellion,” she said. She was in and out of a number of foster homes and group homes. She finally entered Little Sand Group Home in Remer, Minnesota.
“That is where I turned my life around,” Revier said. The family who owned the group home really invested in her, even providing for Revier to attend a private school in Minneapolis.
But turning your life around isn’t always a smooth process.
Revier aged out of the foster care system and dropped out of high school. She did later earn a high school equivalency diploma, commonly called a GED. She would ultimately hang that framed GED next to her framed master’s degree diploma — as a reminder that even if you haven’t graduated from high school, it’s important not to give up on yourself, she said.
“Earning my GED was harder than earning my master’s, because I didn’t believe in myself,” Revier said.
She went on to earn a degree in social work from the University of Minnesota Duluth, as well as a degree in Christian counseling. Her faith has long been an important part of her life. It was part of what helped lift her up and away from a cycle of despair.
Weprovideflexiblehours,personalized careand98%patientsatisfaction atthreeconvenientlocationsnearyou.
Scheduleyourappointmenttoday!
Becky Revier, shown here while employed as treatment director for Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge in Duluth, is now a licensed independent clinical social worker at the St. Louis County Jail.
Steve Kuchera / 2022 File / Duluth Media Group
Serving at-risk communities
Revier knew she wanted to work on community mental health issues, including the things that most people don’t want to see or think about, much less take on as a career choice.
Homelessness, addiction, untreated mental illness — or some combination of these — are the issues Revier wanted to tackle in the Duluth community.
“I knew that I really wanted to understand mental illness from a holistic perspective,” she said. Her stepfather’s mental health issues had been “very scary” when she was a young child, she said. And what made it more difficult was the way members of her church and also the social service system handled it — by stigmatizing the situation.
“They intended to help, but they put a lot of fear and anger into our family,” Revier said. That experience crystallized her career choice.
When Revier began working at Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge, she said there were no employees at the recovery center who had graduated from the program. She felt that was important — just like displaying her master’s degree diploma next to her GED — to show people that there is hope and a path for success.
“During my seven years there, we had 22 employees who had graduated the program,” Revier said.
The staff worked in many different positions at the recovery center. When Revier joined the staff, they also added clinical services to the program, she said. Revier’s brother is also the spiritual care manager.
“We created a safe place, where (people) are able to be vulnerable to other people and to God,” Revier said. “Where we are vulnerable, that’s where change happens. Vulnerability is key to change.”
Becky Revier shows a visitor the sports-themed “man cave” space in the renovated Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge building March 23, 2022. Revier worked seven years for Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge in Duluth, and is now a licensed independent clinical social worker at the St. Louis County Jail. Steve Kuchera / 2022 File / Duluth Media Group
“Vulnerability is key to change"
- Becky Revier
A new opportunity to serve
Revier said it was “an honor” to work at Teen Challenge. But she was working more hours than was feasible. Her husband, a disabled veteran, was having some health problems that Revier wanted to be able to help with. She decided to leave Teen Challenge.
“When I speak of vulnerability, I understand it,” Revier said. “I trusted God, and he was so gentle with me. That was where I was able to change, and make different choices.”
She certainly wasn’t “perfect,” Revier said. But she found the strength she needed to change the path of her life. And now she wants to pass that strength on to others.
“I’m very passionate about marginalized populations, and justice populations, people who tend not to be the focus,” because their behavior becomes the focus, Revier said. When she learned about a new social work position open at the St. Louis County jail, she applied.
The differences in working with these two distinct populations are striking, Revier said.
“When I was at Teen Challenge, I got to see so much change,” Revier said. The 13-month program at Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge promoted personal and spiritual growth; “but at the jail, you see people at the bottom of their bottom,” she said. Correctional facilities have large populations of inmates with mental health issues, Revier said.
“We house our mentally ill population in the jails,” Revier said. “I was shocked at how
profound it is. People in jail have mental illness, and substance use disorders.”
But the jail administration is trying to do something about it. St. Louis County Jail Administrator Jessica Pete applied for and received about $1 million grant from the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance to develop their reentry program, Pete said.
The three-year grant helps pay for Revier’s work to help inmates with behavior therapy and diagnostic assessments, Pete said.
“She has one of those personalities that inmates trust right away,” Pete said. “She gets requested a lot by the inmates.”
Aspirus St. Luke’s Hospital administers the grant and employs
Revier as a licensed independent clinical social worker. The grant also pays for a psychologist to see inmates.
“It’s unheard of, for a jail to do this,” Revier said. “This demonstrates that (Pete) is working hard to address the problems, and not just see the same people again and again.”
Pete also credits Revier’s work with helping inmates moderate their behavior in stressful situations.
“Becky was the perfect choice for this position,” Pete said.
And in helping people — including inmates who may be repeat offenders — Revier has come full circle, working to break the circle of violence, abuse and mental illness. *
Janna Goerdt is an Iron Range farmer and freelance writer.
Eye Exams • Eyeglasses • Contacts • Billing Your Insurance Direct
Deb DeLuca steers the Duluth Seaway Port Authority toward success
Building the region’s economy one cargo load at a time
By Janna Goerdt
At their core, port authorities are economic development entities, said Deb DeLuca, executive director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.
“Our mission is to bring business to the port, and to advocate for the industry,” DeLuca said.
That means having strategic eyes on about 700 ships that pass through the Port of DuluthSuperior each year, as well as plans for the long-term future of the port and its role in the region’s economy.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
Deb DeLuca
Photo courtesy of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority
Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center has been delivering babies in our community for more than 135 years. And with each new generation, we continue building on our tradition of offering the most advanced and compassionate care.
Together, we’re caring for our family, our friends and our neighbors.
Region’s Only NICU | Baby-Friendly® Certified Hospital | Midwifery | High-risk Pregnancy
Visit EssentiaHealth.org/135Years to learn more and schedule.
While the nine staffers who work with the Duluth Seaway Port Authority have to focus on the dayto-day activities in and around the port, DeLuca often needs to take several steps back to think far into the future.
“These are very long-term projects,” said DeLuca, who is the first female executive director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority in its nearly 70-year history. “Some will outlast my tenure, but I have to keep them moving forward.”
The port authority also owns and manages multiple waterfront properties, including the 120-acre Clure Public Marine Terminal, Erie Pier and an industrial park near the Duluth International Airport. The port authority staff provides leadership for and support to the local maritime community.
“My work is like moving pieces on a chessboard,” DeLuca said. She is always thinking about the longterm future of the port, and trying to maneuver those pieces — whether it be funding, construction or new technologies — to be in the right place at the right time.
you need to be solving these problems in real time,” she said.
Busy port, big economic impact
The Port of Duluth-Superior supports more than 7,000 jobs and contributes $1.3 billion in business revenue to the regional economy. In terms of tonnage shipped, it is among the top 20 ports in the United States.
It’s a bit like the bike racing days of her younger years, when DeLuca was a member of the U.S. National Cycling team. During a race, riders need to figure out how to win in a sprint situation, and how to use the race course to break away from the pack or sit back for a moment and plan a strategy.
While riding, DeLuca said she would be “constantly scanning, thinking, what am I doing right now, and what am I supposed to be doing right now.”
Managing the port authority is a bit like that, DeLuca said.
“The world keeps moving, and
“We really operate this facility as a multi-modal logistics hub,” DeLuca said. “We seek flexible supply chain solutions to stay competitive in the market.”
The port is set up to move everything from tiny grains of wheat (many tons at a time) to giant wind turbine blades and huge equipment for mining and other industries.
DeLuca also helps oversee a number of regional and national partnerships to make the port operational, such as Duluth Cargo Connect, which is a working partnership between the port authority and Lake Superior
Warehousing. She also serves on the board of the American Association of Port Authorities, and is president of the Minnesota Ports Association, both advocacy groups.
While she has to have a working knowledge about all the issues surrounding the port authority, from dredging navigational channels to shifting global supply chains, DeLuca said she is most deeply involved in developing longterm funding and policy issues for the port authority.
The port authority team is finalizing a climate action plan that will be presented to the Duluth Seaway Port Authority Board, and the plan will outline a long-term goal of decarbonizing shipping in the next few decades, DeLuca said.
“It will be challenging, but doable,” she said.
Some of the infrastructure that will make that happen — like new low- or
Deb DeLuca and her family. Photo courtesy of Deb DeLuca
Deb DeLuca has overseen millions of dollars of infrastructure investment at the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.
Photo courtesy of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority
zero-carbon fuels that will be needed to power the massive cargo ships that move through the harbor — haven’t even been invented yet. But, just like planning a racing strategy while still in furious motion on your bike, the port authority executive director has to make plans for an unknown future while still minding day-to-day activities.
And while that far-off planning is going on, DeLuca is also thinking about plans for the foreseeable future, like rebuilding the port authority dock and demolishing outmoded activities that are no longer needed. That’s a continuation of the $50 million that has been invested in the terminal since 2014, when DeLuca joined the port authority as their government and environmental affairs director.
DeLuca had had her own consulting business for many years prior to joining the port authority. She worked with public, private and nonprofit sector clients, and truly enjoyed the work — but she missed being part of a larger, high-functioning team, she said. She found that at the port authority.
When not at work, DeLuca enjoys the outdoor delights of northern Minnesota. She loves to run, bike, and Nordic ski — activities that help free her mind for more of that long-term thinking that is so crucial for the port authority.
“WE HAVE A LOT OF WORK TO DO. WE HAVE A MISSION TO IMPLEMENT, AND WE DON’T WANT TO SHORT-CHANGE ANY OF IT.”
- Deb DeLuca
DeLuca and her husband, Eric Dott, moved to Duluth in 2006. They still live in the house their children grew up in. The family spends a lot of time outdoors, with plenty of skiing and Boundary Waters canoe trips on the menu.
The Port of Duluth-Superior had a banner season in 2023-24. It was the longest international shipping season, it marked the earliest oceangoing arrival in the spring, and total maritime tonnage shipped was up slightly against the five-year average. The port welcomed 775 vessels during the season, which was the most since 2018.
There is reason for celebration and satisfaction, DeLuca said, but there is no time to be complacent.
“The port authority is a much more proactive place” today than in years past, DeLuca said. “We have a lot of work to do. We have a mission to implement, and we don’t want to short-change any of it.” *
Janna Goerdt is an Iron Range farmer and freelance writer.
Deb DeLuca and her husband, Eric Dott
Photo courtesy of Deb DeLuca
BU SI NE SS BA NK IN G
Twin Ports Rosemaling Society 43rd Annual
Scandinavian Festival
September 21, 2024 • 9am-3pm Adults $5, children 12 and under free.
St. Lukes Sports and Event Center Kirkus Street, Proctor, Minn. Scandinavian Food, Entertainment, Rosemaling, and Crafts
Painting, Carving, Kolrosing, Lefse, Knitting, Rosemaling, Jewelry, Hardanger, Woodenware, Scandinavian Music For more information, call Coleen (218) 624-5944 or Gwen (218) 624-4756 www.twinportsrosemaling.org
Explore our great indoors and see what’s possible. From
clydeironworks.com events@clydeironworks.com 218-727-1150
VanKateDaele
Top communications professional thrives under pressure
By Andrea Busche
For many people, the pressure of a high-intensity communications job would be a lot to handle. The tight deadlines, media visibility, and public handling of sensitive issues — all daily occurrences in high-level PR and communications work — would send most folks into a tailspin.
But Duluth resident Kate Van Daele is wired differently. This intensity is something she craves. This top-tier communications professional has worked within former Duluth Mayor Emily Larson’s senior leadership team, and has subsequently found success in corporate settings, too. She recently started a new job as community and local government relations manager for Allete, and looks forward to making a difference in the utility industry.
“I think I’m drawn to a high amount of pressure,” Van Daele said. “I tend to do well in those situations. But I also look for roles where I can make an impact. I look for gaps that I can help fill in.”
Athletic youth
Van Daele grew up in Minneapolis as part of a blended family with seven siblings. Her mother, Jennifer Gelo, worked for Voyagers National Park Association, a nonprofit entity. Her father, David Hunt, is an attorney. She also has a stepfather, Gordon, and a stepmother, Joan.
Van Daele is a lifelong athlete and sports fanatic.
“I remember as a kid, I always started my mornings opening the Star Tribune and immediately turning to the sports page,” she said with a chuckle. “Did Kirby Puckett hit a home run last night? And how are the Vikings’ stats looking?”
She swam competitively for 16 years, and later coached and taught swimming lessons. She also worked as a lifeguard for her local YMCA.
An early experience at Camp Widjiwagan in Ely, where she took a three-month canoe trip in the Canadian Arctic with five other girls and a camp counselor, was life-changing.
“I learned so much about teamwork and accomplishing things when conditions are challenging,” she said.
An unfortunate result of that trip is that Van Daele has no feeling in her feet; a product of nerve damage from prolonged exposure to the frigid water.
Education
Initially, Van Daele thought she’d be a teacher, following in the footsteps of Miss Madison, her beloved fourth grade teacher. But she pivoted to political science and graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa.
Family affiliations had a lot to do with her decision.
“My family has always been involved in government,” she said. “(Former U.S. Sen.) Paul Wellstone was a close family friend, as was (former U.S. Rep.) Bruce Vento. Minnesota and national politics were discussed every night at the family dinner table.”
While in college, Van Daele also encouraged a friend, Alek Wipperman, to run for state representative, and she was a part of his campaign.
After college, Van Daele moved to Denver, Colorado, and got a job through AmeriCorps at an organization called Urban Peak. Here, she worked with youth at risk of homelessness.
Ultimately, she worked for a variety of Denver nonprofits in the areas of homelessness and public health. She also met her husband, Scott, while in Denver — his hometown.
Duluth
Kate and Scott made regular trips back to Minnesota to spend time with Kate’s family. While unfamiliar with Duluth, they decided to check it out.
“I hadn’t really spent time here growing up, so Scott and I found Duluth together,” she said. “We were enjoying some time at Fitger’s and we said, ‘We could move here.’”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
And that’s exactly what they did. The couple relocated to Duluth in 2016.
Since their move, Scott has worked as director of distributive services for CHUM. Kate was first hired by the city of Duluth and worked in the planning department. Later, she was promoted to public information officer, where she was part of the city’s leadership team and a member of Mayor Larson’s cabinet.
Van Daele was proud to work side-by-side with Duluth’s first female mayor.
“I still think the world of Emily, both personally and professionally,” she said. “I loved representing her and the city, and really valued how she was so transparent and inclusive.”
In 2022, Van Daele was hired at Cenovus Energy Superior Refinery as its senior regional communications adviser. Here, she provided updates to employees, pitched media stories about community investments and promoted Cenovus Cares — the company’s internal volunteer program.
And, in June 2024, she began a new job at Allete, as community and local government relations manager — a newly created role. Here, she helps foster community and government relations, and supervises a team that oversees the Minnesota Power Foundation.
“I think the world of Allete’s CEO Bethany Owen, and my direct supervisor, Jennifer Cady,” Van Daele said. “I am so impressed that Minnesota Power places such a high value on putting women into leadership roles. That is one of the reasons I was drawn to apply for this job.”
Kate Van Daele, then public information officer with the city of Duluth, holds her son, Colton, 2, and her 20 Under 40 trophy outside the Duluth News Tribune offices in this file photo. Van Daele was a member of the 2021 20 Under 40 Class. Dan Williamson / File / Duluth Media Group
Kate Van Daele and her husband, Scott, walk their sheepadoodle, Nala, near their home in this file photo. Their romance started in public service, working at a nonprofit in Colorado. Scott is director of distributive services at CHUM. Steve Kuchera / File / Duluth Media Group
Extracurriculars
In addition to her full-time job, Van Daele maintains a variety of professional affiliations. She is board chair at the Duluth Children’s Museum. She is a member of the Essentia Health Community Contributions Committee. She serves on the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors. She is a former board member for Bentleyville. And she is a former participant of both Leadership Duluth and the Fuse Council Leadership Team. Additionally, she was awarded a “20 Under 40” award by the Duluth News Tribune in 2021.
Personal
The Van Daeles live in Duluth’s Endion neighborhood and have a son, Colton, 5, and a sheepadoodle named Nala. The family enjoys many Duluth-centric activities, such as watching UMD women’s hockey, and exploring Glensheen, the Great Lakes Aquarium and the Lake Superior Zoo. Colton is an active little guy who already plays both hockey and T-ball.
"FOR ME, IT ALWAYS COMES BACK TO THE PEOPLE "
- Kate Van Daele
“I’m so happy to be a mother,” Van Daele said. “I tell Colton every day that he’s the best gift I’ve ever gotten. Our whole lives revolve around our son and dog.”
Rewarding
Van Daele absolutely loves her adopted hometown of Duluth, and is thriving — both personally and professionally.
“For me, it always comes back to the people,” she said.
“Both my fellow employees and the organizations that are so important to our community. I just love meeting new people and making connections with others.” *
Andrea Busche is a Duluth-based freelance writer and smallbusiness owner. She has been a frequent contributor to The Woman Today since 2008.
CHANGING GEARS
Lucy Wagner works on an oil drain plug in the pit during an oil change.
Photo courtesy of Grace Groth
Women leading the way at Hermantown Valvoline Instant Oil Change
By Ed Newman
The entry of women into traditionally maledominated industries has been a gradual process spanning many decades with the real game changer being World War II.
As 12 million men went off to serve in the armed forces, they left 12 million job vacancies in their wake. The nation’s women stepped in to fill the gap, with “Rosie the Riveter” exemplifying the “can-do” attitude of women in the workplace. There was no turning back. This cultural change is evident at the Valvoline Instant Oil Change service center on Haines Road in Hermantown.
According to Service Center Manager Grace Groth, “We currently have six men, one nongender conforming individual, and five women. Every single day, there are many positive comments from our guests about the number of women on our team.”
EMPOWERING DREAMS, BUILDING FUTURES
As a proud woman-owned construction company, we bring a unique perspective to every project; blending passion, precision, and a commitment to quality like no other.
When people pull their vehicles into the Valvoline Instant Oil Change (VIOC) station for the first time, more than a few are surprised at how many women work there servicing the cars, said Kallie Pederson, the store’s assistant manager.
“Yes, there are a few raised eyebrows, but there are plenty whose faces brighten when they see all this girl power.”
The women have taken a variety of paths to get here. Groth, a Valvoline veteran, has been with the company for nearly six years. While growing up, her father built dirt-track race cars and raced nearly every single weekend each summer.
“I spent a lot of time watching him live his dream, and while they weren’t your standard daily vehicles, that’s what sparked my initial interest in the automotive field,” Groth said.
The birth of her own dream came after she got her driver’s license.
“Once I was old enough to drive, as many teens do, I wanted to drive every chance I got,” Groth said. “This led to one day driving my father’s truck to Valvoline for an oil change when I was 16. For me, the experience was phenomenal, and (the employees) all seemed to be having fun!
“One specific detail that caught my eye was that there was a female employee working beneath in the pit. This was my first experience seeing a woman working in an automotive service center, which is shocking to think about now. But that day, I knew what my first job would be.”
These experiences were a catalyst that led to what has since become a passion.
“Aside from my extreme interest in cars, I wanted to be the next female to do something different, and one day excel in a male-dominated industry,” she said.
At age 17, Groth was hired on as a part-time technician at the Valvoline in Medina, Minnesota.
“Now, six years later and having relocated to Duluth, I’ve created a fulfilling career with Valvoline as Service Center Manager of my own service center,” Groth said.
Certified technician Emma Cargin’s early interest in the automotive field came from attending car shows with her stepdad.
“I applied for a position here because I wanted to know more about cars,” she said. “I initially learned about preventative maintenance, how to check fluid levels and air filters and all the basics. The training here is good so it didn’t take long to catch on.”
For Cargin, however, becoming familiar with cars is more than just maintenance. Away from her job, she’s been upgrading her ’97 Grand Prix.
“I’ve put on new bumpers and a spoiler,” she said. “I want to paint some of the parts. Nowadays YouTube can help you learn to fix anything on cars.”
Lilly Morgan is also a certified technician who thought this would be a good first step into the automotive world.
“I was surprised at how little people know about their own vehicles,” Morgan said. “Sometimes it’s basic things like how to read a dipstick or the difference between synthetic and conventional oil.”
“I love cars and this was hands-on training that opened the door,” senior technician Lucy Wagner
In addition to a wide range of cosmetic surgical procedures, we offer an array of non surgical procedures.
TEAM STRIVES FOR NATURAL LOOKING
324 W. Superior St., Suite 330, Duluth (218) 215-8990 duluthplasticsurgerycenter.com
WE OFFER SOLUTIONS FOR THESE COMMON CONCERNS:
• Wrinkles • Melasma • Loose Skin
• Sun damage/age spots/freckles
• Age related facial volume loss
• Acne/Acne Scarring
• Dull or uneven complexion
WE OFFER THESE SERVICES:
• Complimentary Consultations
• Sciton BBL Hero/Moxi
• Botox • Juvederm Fillers
• Morpheus 8
•Medical Grade Skin Care Products
said. “My dad used to work on cars. He did oil changes, tire changes and knew how to drop an engine into a car.”
Wagner said she will be working in automotive services for a long time.
Senior technician Stella Nygren, who is originally from Sandstone said she likewise got into the business because of her interest in cars. “It was something new I wanted to try.”
The members of this team all speak the same language when referring to their customers. They consider customers their guests.
“I simply love being able to educate guests about their vehicles and inform them of preventative maintenance so they can feel empowered to complete services that will help their vehicle last as long as possible,” said Groth. “Far too often, we see vehicles neglected simply because guests are unaware of what is due for service, or that some services exist to begin with.
“Our main goal is to always be professional and respectful to those who trust us with their vehicles. From a business standpoint, they are customers, but we wouldn’t be here without them; they are our guests and we treat them as such. We just want to make sure our guests are taken care of, and the business side takes care of itself.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
Assistant Manager Kallie Pederson checks for optimal tire pressure.
Photo courtesy of Grace Groth
A typical day
What does a typical day look like for Groth?
“I start out by having a morning huddle with my opening crew, where we set goals and expectations for the day while we complete stretches that help keep us safe from injury,” she said.
After this initial routine, Groth will typically begin in the customer service representative role and speak with clients throughout the morning.
“As the day goes on, I tend to fill any roles necessary to keep cars moving — help our bottom-side technician in the pit, complete a service outside, answer questions for guests and my team, greet guests as they arrive, delegate administrative tasks, etc. The fun part about being a manager here at Valvoline,” Groth says with enthusiasm, “is that no two days are the same. Needless to say, it keeps me on my toes at all times.”
"THE FUN PART ABOUT BEING A MANAGER HERE AT VALVOLINE, IS THAT NO TWO DAYS ARE THE SAME."
-Grace Groth
The women of Valvoline include, back row from left: Lucy Wagner (senior technician), Kallie Pederson (assistant manager) and Stella Nygren (senior technician). Front row from left: Lilly Morgan (certified technician), Grace Groth (service center manager) and Emma Carman (certified technician). Photo courtesy of Grace Groth
Advice for other women
Groth takes pride in the team she has built.
“I will say we are past the time of people being surprised by women working in this field, but so many guests are pleasantly surprised by the fact that their vehicle is being taken care of often by a completely female team,” she said. “It is also amazing to show that not only is this a career for men and women, but also for those who don’t conform to one specific gender identity. There is a home for anyone and everyone on my team. “
All of the women had variations of the same encouragement for other women interested in this field.
“Go for it!” Nygren said.
“It’s awesome. I encourage women who are scared about it to just do it,” Wagner said.
“Try it based on if you want to, not on whether you think you can or not,” said Morgan.
Pederson addressed the idea of women doing jobs that were once chiefly the domain of men. “We’ve had plenty of guests who said they wanted to do this but didn’t feel they had the opportunity.”
Wagner gave this advice: “Always learn new things. Acquire more knowledge.”
As for learning new things, Pederson commented on how Valvoline invests in its employees, covering costs to advance their education, and not just mechanics classes.
“They will reimburse you for classes on the business side including marketing and such.” *
Competing in the “Oilympics”
Every year, Valvoline holds a competition called the National Oilympics.
Teams that qualify at the area level and market level head to Lexington, Kentucky. The objective is to complete the fastest “perfect oil change,” Groth said, “There is a winner for each market that gets to compete in National Oilympics competition. We won for our market this year and last year and are competing with the best of the best for first place — and bragging rights, of course. It is an amazing experience to be a part of. … This event is a perfect reflection of the fun and competitive spirit of Valvoline. My store has been open two years and in its first two years we have taken the spot both times.”
Road in Hermantown.
Senior Technician
Lucy Wagner, left, and Service Center
Manager Grace Groth discuss the day’s work at Valvoline Instant Oil Change service center on Haines
Photo courtesy of Grace Groth
From fractures to freedom
How one woman found holistic healing at Aspirus St. Luke’s
By Claire Kiger
Autumn leaves danced as Cathy Slack returned from a memorable September 2022 trip with her husband.
However, her joy shortly turned to concern. A growing pain in her foot intensified with each passing hour. As the swelling increased, she decided to visit the emergency department.
Soon, Cathy found out she was dealing with a stress fracture. She would need to wear a stabilizing boot for several months. What she didn’t know at the time was that this would be the first of three fractures in the same foot. These injuries, on top of two unrelated surgeries, would put her in recovery mode for the next two years.
“After the second fracture, I had about two months before feeling that same pain again. I was so discouraged,” Cathy said. “I knew there had to be an underlying issue.”
When she got in to see Dr. Zubaria Sarooj, a podiatrist at Aspirus St. Luke’s Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, she found out she was right.
Cathy Slack and her husband love being active.
Photo courtesy of Aspirus-St. Luke's
Cathy and her husband had a healthy lifestyle. They had also been active, often enjoying walks and hikes with their dog. However, due to Cathy’s health issues, she was forced to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle which furthered her bone density loss.
In addition to wearing another boot, Dr. Sarooj recommended Cathy begin taking medication that would help strengthen her bones. She also suggested Cathy use a bone stimulator.
“I had never heard of that before,” Cathy said, “but at that point I was so happy that Dr. Sarooj was thinking of me as a whole person and treating the root of the issue. I was ready to try anything.”
Treating the whole person, not just the problem
“With Cathy’s past medical history and previous fractures, I quickly suspected that lowbone density could be the real issue,” Dr. Sarooj said. “Postmenopausal women are at higher risk for this primarily due to the drop in estrogen levels and the decrease in bone density that naturally comes with aging.”
Women can prevent bone density issues by maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes:
• A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Weight-bearing exercises and staying active.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Regular bone density screenings.
Healing with a bone stimulator
A bone stimulator machine is a medical device used to promote bone healing and growth. It typically uses lowintensity pulsed ultrasound or pulsed electromagnetic fields to stimulate bone cells. This encourages them to regenerate and heal more efficiently.
For three months, Cathy used her machine diligently for three hours every day, following Dr. Sarooj’s direction.
"All I had to do was slide my foot in, turn it on and relax,” Cathy said. “I didn’t feel anything. It was so simple and easy.”
As Cathy readied herself for her last visit with Dr. Sarooj, she made sure to grab the shoe for her healing foot. Exiting the clinic later that day, without her boot for the first time in months, she could hardly
contain her excitement. She was finally free to get back to the life she had missed so much.
Foot care with compassion at Aspirus St. Luke’s
“I have never felt better,” Cathy said. “My husband and I can finally get out for walks again. I can even wear a low heel! Because of Dr. Sarooj, I have my life back. I am so grateful.”
As a podiatrist, Dr. Sarooj treats various foot issues, from bunions to toenail conditions, including diabetic foot care.
“Promptly addressing any foot discomfort is so important,” she said. “Early intervention can prevent worsening issues that could impact mobility and overall quality of life.”
If Cathy ever has an issue again, she knows exactly who she’ll call.
“I just can’t say enough about Dr. Sarooj,” she said with a smile. “She truly listened to me, going above and beyond. She didn’t just treat my injury; she treated the cause and I’m better for it.”
If you have any concerns regarding your foot health, schedule an appointment at Aspirus St. Luke’s Orthopedics & Sports Medicine — no referral required. Call 218-249-6360 or visit slhduluth.com/ortho. *
Claire Kiger is a writer and marketing specialist at Aspirus St. Luke's.
Dr. Zubaria Sarooj believes in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why she tailors her treatments to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Photo courtesy of Aspirus-St.Luke's
Arts & Entertainment Calendar
The West Theatre Events
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER
Aug. 6 — Steve Hofstetter (comedian)
Sept. 4 — The Tannahill Weavers (Celtic)
Sept. 5 — Pat MacDonald
Sept. 12 — Sally Rogers and Claudia Schmidt
Sept. 28 — Jeff Leeson: The Unscripted Tour
Sept. 25 — Tom Paxton & the DonJuans. Find updated information at thewesttheatre/ events.com.
Music in the Park Concert Series
TUESDAYS IN AUGUST
Free concerts take place from 6:30-8 p.m.
July 2 — Sydney Hansen (country/rock) at Chester Bowl Park
July 9 — Cyr and the Cosmonauts (eclectic Americana) at Chester Bowl Park
July 16 — Mary Bue & the Monarchy (indie rock) at Chester Bowl Park
July 23 — Big Wave Dave and the Ripples (funk/soul) at Lincoln Park
July 30 — Slapdash Bluegrass at Lincoln Park. Visit chesterbowl.org.
Movies in the Park
AUGUST
This eight-week series features free, familyfriendly movies shown on a giant outdoor screen in Leif Erikson Park on Fridays:
Aug. 2 — “Trolls Band Together” Aug. 9 — “The Color Purple” (2023) Aug. 16 — “Kung Fu Panda” Aug. 23 — “Wonka” Aug. 30 — “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” Visit downtownduluth.com/movies-in-the-park.
Concerts on the Pier
AUGUST
Held at 5 p.m. Wednesdays at Glensheen, concerts are free and open to the public. See lineup at glensheen.org/concerts.
Spirit Valley Days
AUG. 1-3
This annual three-day extravaganza celebrates the neighborhood of West Duluth with a pageant, parade, craft and vendor fair, music, pancake breakfast and car show. Visit spiritvalleydays.com.
Gabriel Iglesias
8PM AUG. 2
One of the world’s most successful standup comedians, also known as “Fluffy,” will perform at Black Bear Casino Resort. Visit blackbearcasinoresort.com/ottercreek.html.
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.
Bayfront Blues Festival
AUG. 9-11
Celebrating 35 years, Bayfront Blues Festival is a world leader in showcasing a who’s who in the blues and blues/ rock music genre. Visit bayfrontblues.com.
“Godspell Jr.”
AUG. 9-11
“Prepare Ye the Way” for Duluth Playhouse’s 2024 Junior Intensive with this beloved classic that retells the greatest story ever told. Visit duluthplayhouse.org/shows/godspell-jr.
“Mean Girls: High School Version”
AUG. 16-18
City on the Hill Music Festival
AUG. 2-3
Enjoy a huge lineup of Christian, faithbased music at Bayfront Festival Park. Visit cityonthehillmusicfest.com.
“An Outlaw’s Tale”
AUG. 5-9
The County Seat Theater Company in Carlton will present this Young Adult Theater production about the good, the bad and the downright lazy. Visit countyseattheater. com.
Another Duluth Playhouse Teen Intensive production, this “fetch” musical is packed with keen wit, a fun pop score and all your favorite moments from the film. Visit duluthplayhouse.org/shows/mean-girls-highschool-version.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream: In The Woods”
AUG. 16-18
This classic Shakespeare production is the product of a two-week teen acting camp through Zeitgeist. Performances will be held at Hartley Nature Center. Visit zeitgeistarts.com/theater.
Art In Bayfront Park
AUG. 17-18
Over 100 artists will fill Bayfront Festival Park with juried works of art, plus enjoy the Culinary Arts Market, Art in Action demos, and food and beverages. Visit artinbayfrontpark.com.
The Tribute Fest
AUG. 23-24
This annual event raises awareness and funds for homeless veterans in Minnesota. Music will be at Bayfront Park and Bent Paddle. Visit thetributefest.com.
Duluth Superior Pride Festival
AUG. 29-SEPT. 2
Celebrate 38 years of Pride in the Twin Ports with lots of events at various businesses in the area, culminating in the Pride Parade on Sunday. Visit duluthsuperiorpride.com.
Lake Superior Harvest Festival
10AM SEPT. 7
This family-oriented event features a huge farmers market, live music all day, expanded Energy Fair experience, nonprofit exhibitors tent, educational demos and more. Visit sfamn.org/harvest-festival.
Duluth Oktoberfestival
SEPT. 13-15
This annual event features German bier, Bavarian food, authentic live music, games and activities, arts and crafts, Kids Zone, and a Dachshund Derby, all at Bayfront Festival Park. Visit duluthoktoberfestival.com.
Home Free: Crazy(er) Life Tour
4PM SEPT. 15
This all-vocal country group celebrates the 10-year anniversary of their breakout album “Crazy Life” in their Crazy(er) Life Tour with a 4 p.m. concert at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org/event/home-free.
Scandinavian Festival
SEPT. 21
This 43rd annual event by the Twin Ports Rosemaling Society will be held at the St Luke's Sports & Event Center, Proctor. It includes Scandinavian folk artists — carvers, hardanger, rosemalers, wood turners, silversmith jewlery makers, and many others, as well as Nordic musicians, lefse and tea table. Visit twinportsrosemaling.org.
Jurassic Quest
SEPT. 27-29
The world’s largest, most popular Dino event returns to the DECC’s Pioneer Hall, with fun for the whole family. Visit decc.org/ event/jurassic-quest.
Foreigner Farewell Tour
7PM SEPT. 27
With 10 multi-platinum albums, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world. Their farewell tour includes special guest Lita Ford at Amsoil Arena. Visit decc.org/event/foreignerfarewell-tour.
ONGOING:
Duluth Children’s Museum 115 S. 29th Ave. W., Duluth 218-733-7543 duluthchildrensmuseum.org
Duluth Depot
506 W. Michigan St., Duluth 218-727-8025 duluthdepot.org
Douglas County Historical Society 1101 John Ave., Superior 715-392-8449 douglashistory.org
Glensheen Historic Estate 3300 London Road, Duluth 218-726-8910 glensheen.org
Great Lakes Aquarium
353 Harbor Dr., Duluth 218-740-3474 glaquarium.org
Lake Superior Zoo
7210 Fremont St., Duluth 218-730-4500 lszooduluth.org
North Shore Scenic Railroad
506 W. Michigan St., Duluth 218-722-1273 duluthtrains.com
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad
6930 Fremont St., Duluth 218-624-7549 Lsmrr.org
to: magazines@duluthnews.com at least two months before your event.
Trust the experts at Essentia Health with all your women’s health needs
By Anthony Matt
At Essentia Health, we’re proud to offer a variety of services for women’s health. Our family medicine physicians, OB-GYNs and midwives provide a continuum of care for our patients’ individual needs and personal desires.
The obstetric team at Essentia Health-St. Mary's Medical Center includes, from left, Dr. Rebecca Hartman, Britta Clark, Dr. Jenna Lund, Kelsey O'Neil, Andrea Wynands, Tiffany Negley and Dr. Alena Tofte. Photo courtesy of Essentia-St. Mary's
Andrea Wynands, Dr. Becky Hartman and Dr. Alena Tofte are three of the newest members of our growing team of experts dedicated to women’s health.
“Obstetric care at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center allows patients access to all the invaluable resources a Level I trauma center and Level III NICU can provide,” Dr. Hartman said. “There is nowhere else in the region that compares from this perspective.”
From your first prenatal appointment through labor and delivery and postpartum care, patients can expect family-centered maternity care that respects your preferences, follows your birth plan and delivers safety and support for moms and babies every step of the way.
“It is an honor to share the momentous and lifechanging experience of birth with new parents and families,” Dr. Tofte said. “Hearing your stories and getting to know you is meaningful and makes my work so enjoyable.”
Our compassionate providers are committed to caring for patients beyond the birthing process, as many of them help support breastfeeding efforts, help mothers recover from birth, adjust to life as a parent and identify and discuss care options for postpartum depression. We can assist with just about any concerns women have with their health — even the ones that are a little more difficult to talk about.
“I love the variety of OBGYNs,” Wynands said. “From the first pap smear and cycle control to preconception counseling and pregnancy care, and throughout
the menopause transition, there are opportunities to recommend preventive care, treat acute concerns and help patients manage chronic conditions.”
Our certified nurse-midwives
"Hearing your stories and getting to know you is meaningful and makes my work so enjoyable."
- Dr. Tofte
(CNMs) are another avenue for women to explore. When you partner with a CNM at Essentia, you’ll enjoy holistic care from a clinician who takes time to answer your questions, listen to your concerns and provide all the necessary health information and resources. They provide education and care for women throughout their lives.
CNMs are also trained to help mothers cope with labor pains and assist with non-medicated delivery options. This includes things like aromatherapy, birthing balls, massage, hydrotherapy and more.
“I hope my patients feel like I give non-judgmental, comprehensive care while providing the information they need to make educated decisions about their health care,” Dr. Hartman said.
St. Mary’s Medical Center is also
a Baby-friendly Designated Birthplace. This national designation recognizes health systems that go above and beyond to promote, support and encourage breastfeeding, when possible.
The baby-friendly birthplace at St. Mary’s Medical Center features 13 private birth suites and six antepartum rooms offering care to high-risk patients and their families.
Three midwifery suites feature a birth pool for labor and a queensize bed. The care and amenities will make your birthing experience unique, private and comfortable. This homelike atmosphere is welcoming, inviting and soothing.
“We provide excellent care and have an incredibly dedicated team within Essentia who are all committed to women’s health and the health of their babies,” Dr. Tofte said. “All our OB providers, employees and our strong midwifery team care deeply about the health of their patients in an unparalleled setting overlooking beautiful Lake Superior.”
Whether you need help with general women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care and many other health conditions, trust the experts at Essentia.
“This team provides wellrounded and excellent care for all aspects of OB-GYN health needs,” Wynands said. *
Anthony Matt is the media relations specialist at Essentia Health.
Patti Urbanski knows how to help diabetes patients,
because she is living — and thriving — with the condition
By Janna Goerdt
a diabetes and nutrition specialist at Aspirus
works with patients who have diabetes to teach them effective strategies for staying healthy while living with the diabetes.
Patti Urbanski
Patti Ubanski,
St. Luke's,
Photo courtesy of Patti Urbanski
It was 1978, and she was 14 years old, growing up in Maine. She was thirsty all the time, and she was unintentionally losing weight. And she was scared.
When she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Urbanski was actually kind of relieved, she said.
“I was very lucky,” Urbanski said. “My parents had good health insurance, and they made sure we had everything we needed.”
The family was able to bring Patti to a weeklong program at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, where they learned how to manage the lifelong disease. The program helped Urbanski get on the right track to stay healthy and active.
Today, decades later, Urbanski has made a career of doing the same for others. As a diabetes and nutrition specialist for Aspirus St. Luke’s Hospital, Urbanski counsels patients on preventing the disease and educates those patients who have developed diabetes.
Advocating for patients
Urbanski was invited to serve on the board of a national diabetes organization, and from there she met other diabetes educators from across the country. She soon grew involved with the American Diabetes Association, or ADA. The organization has a two-pronged mission, one of which supports research into a cure for diabetes and better diabetes management, and the other focuses on patient education and advocacy. That’s what resonated with Urbanski.
There are so many more options today for patients with diabetes, compared to when Urbanski was diagnosed.
“When I meet with patients for the first time, whether they are just diagnosed or they have had diabetes for 15 to 20 years and are now struggling in some way, I want to find out what their thoughts and feelings are,” Urbanski said. Some patients are surprised by their diagnosis, while others may have a family history of the disease.
One luxury Urbanski, as a diabetes educator, has is extra time to spend with her patients. She gets to know people and to teach her patients exactly why she is asking them to care for their health in certain ways.
As Urbanski found out, the more advocacy work you do, “the more you are invited to do,” she said. She continued her advocacy and education work with the ADA until she was encouraged to apply for the role of president of health care and education — essentially, the most prominent advocate for diabetes education in the most prominent diabetes education organization in the country. Her one-year term will be complete in December.
This work has taken Urbanski across the country to talk about diabetes education. In June, she went on a speaking tour of several Southern states, including Mississippi and Florida, where levels of diabetes are skyrocketing.
“The ADA is really trying to attack the whole problem on a number of fronts,” Urbanski said.
To help fund that mission, Urbanski and her husband, Tom, have taken part in the Tour de Cure, the premier fundraiser for the ADA in Minnesota. For 13 years, the Urbanskis and their cycling team of 10 people — named “Sweet Spokes” — have taken part in the daylong bike tour on Boom Island in Minneapolis. The team has raised more than $300,000 for the ADA.
"The ADA is really trying to attack the whole problem on a number of fronts."
- Patti Urbanski
“That’s been a fun event, and it’s near and dear to our hearts,” Patti Urbanski said.
While medicine and science continue to make advances in treating both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the numbers of patients with diabetes continue to rise, Urbanski said. She’s hopeful that a new medicine can help prevent or delay the onset of Type 1 diabetes in families with a history of the disease, but large numbers of people are still at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes because of circumstances and lifestyle choices.
That worries her. But she keeps working.
Respect from colleagues
Several of her colleagues at Aspirus St. Luke’s commented on Urbanski’s passion and dedication for diabetes education.
“Her influence and impact on the broader diabetes community are clearly demonstrated by her exceptional commitment and leadership at the national level,” said Dr. Jessica KrogBreeuwer, an internal medicine specialist at Aspirus St. Luke’s. “Her unwavering dedication to excellence motivates each member of our team to strive for their best.”
“Patti’s commitment to her patients is nothing short of extraordinary,” said Paul Raj, clinic operations director for Internal Medicine at Aspirus St. Luke’s. “Her ability to challenge and motivate both patients and colleagues alike is truly commendable.”
That ability was put on display at the end of June, when Urbanski traveled to Orlando to deliver her presidential address to a gathering of the ADA. Before an audience of about 10,000 people, Urbanski spoke about how every person living with diabetes deserves the opportunity to access proper treatment and be healthy — and that they shouldn’t have to travel to a specialty clinic to get that kind of care, as she did in 1978.
“Most people with diabetes want to do well,” Urbanski said. “We have to be sure we can offer them education that is appropriate and meaningful, and education that is readily available from their primary care doctor.”
Having been diagnosed at a young age “helps me be compassionate, and understand the struggles patients have,” she said. “But I don’t know what it’s like to have your diabetes.”
And when Urbanski sits down with a patient, that’s why she is prepared to listen, and to understand. *
Janna Goerdt is an Iron Range farmer and freelance writer.
Above: As a diabetes and nutrition specialist at Aspirus St. Luke's, Patti Urbanski works with patients who have diabetes to teach them effective strategies for staying healthy while living with the diabetes.
Below: Tom and Patti Urbanski enjoy cross-country skiing at the Cloquet Forestry Center. Staying active has helped Patti manage her Type 1 diabetes.
Photos courtesy of Patti Urbanski
Second grade teacher set to embark on two global expeditions
While participating in National Geographic’s Explorer
Classroom Wildlife series, Kimberly Broman’s second grade students researched Minnesota’s endangered turtles, their habitat needs, reasons they are endangered, and found ways they could protect turtles. They built nesting boxes that a couple of students took home to protect turtle eggs this past spring. After completing the Wildlife Series with Explorer Classroom, Broman’s class received some amazing swag from National Geographic.
By Andrea Busche
Kim Broman, a second grade teacher at Cloquet’s Washington Elementary School, is a lifelong learner herself. Her insatiable curiosity is part of what drew her to education.
“I’ve always loved to learn,” she said. “And teaching just opened up a whole new world. There is an endless list of things to learn through teaching.”
Photo courtesy of Kimberly Broman
This summer, Broman will enjoy two separate global expeditions — first to Costa Rica, and later a circumnavigation of Iceland. Both adventures are highly competitive professional fellowships, which she was selected for after submitting lengthy applications.
Broman is eager to share everything she’s learned with her students once school resumes in the fall.
Early pursuits
Broman is the eldest of six children and grew up on Minnesota’s Iron Range. Her stepfather, Howard, worked as an electrician. Her mother, Priscilla, was a stay-at-home mom.
Priscilla shared her keen interest in adventure — and Scouting — with her children. She was both a Girl Scout leader and Boy Scout den mother, in addition to being a Scout in her youth.
Broman inherited this passion for Scouting, too.
Kimberly Broman
Naturebased schoolservi
Pre-K - 6th Grad
“It was something my mom really believed in,” she said. “I still remember seeing all her Girl Scout pins. It really shaped who I am.”
Through Scouting, Broman enjoyed interesting and educational trips to places like New York City, Canada and the World’s Fair in Kentucky. She also became an ambitious young saleswoman.
“I was one of the top sellers of Girl Scout cookies,” Broman noted with a chuckle. “When I was 14, I got to meet (Minnesota) Gov. Rudy Perpich at the state Capitol, and even sat at his desk.”
Nature based school serving students Pre-K - 6th Grade
Learn more at northshorecommuni or call to schedulea to
Northshorecommunityschool.org
Pre-K-6th: Environmental Educationintegrated th curriculum,witha 20-acre schoolforest, greenhouse, outdoorclassrooms.
Nor th S hor e
• Busing from Duluth and Two Harbors
Community School
Love of education
Broman’s love of learning is reflected in the fact that she has earned three college degrees. She first attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, where she double-majored in social work and psychology.
Once she decided to become a teacher, she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Minnesota Duluth. She later earned a master’s degree in special education from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Career path
After college graduation, Broman began an internship at Duluth’s Northwood Children’s Services. This later turned into a full-time job as a counselor, and she remained there for 12 years.
After teaching fourth grade for one year at Blaine Elementary in Superior, Broman took advantage of an opportunity to live and work abroad. She moved to Sendai, Japan, where she taught English at MeySen Academy, an immersion school. This was also a beneficial experience for her children, twin sons Dawson and Dylan, who were just toddlers then.
Teaching English in Sendai, Kimberly Broman said Japan provided many enriching opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally.
Photo courtesy of Kimberly Broman
Broman is mom to twin boys Dylan (left) and Dawson who will turn 24 this summer. Dylan owns a triplex and a duplex in the Duluth-Superior area and wants to continue with real estate investing. Dawson just graduated summa cum laude from North Dakota State University with his Master of Science and Architecture, and he is currently working at Voyageur Log Homes in Orr, Minnesota. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Broman
“The boys would visit my class in the afternoons and speak English with the Japanese children,” Broman said.
She was hired by the Cloquet School District in 2008, where she first worked in special education for the Cloquet Area Alternative Educational Program. In 2014, she began teaching second grade and remains in that role today.
Lifelong learning
Despite having an incredibly full life, Broman’s love for learning and adventure has never waned. She recently applied for, and was accepted into, two different professional fellowships that will take place this summer.
First, she’ll travel to Costa Rica as part of the Fund for Teachers organization. From July 9-27, she will learn about sea turtles and sea turtle conservation (her chosen topic of study), along with the culture and history of Costa Rica.
Later, from Aug. 15-24, she and 35 other educators will complete a circumnavigation of Iceland through a partnership with Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society. Throughout her expedition, she will experience hands-on, field-based educational and research opportunities, and a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Broman is excited to use this knowledge to boost her curriculum and inspire her students to become environmental stewards, too.
“It’s my first time for this kind of adventure,” she said. “When I told my second graders about it, they said, ‘It’s like you’re a National Geographic explorer!’ It turned into this great impromptu conversation. And that’s a big part of what I want to give to my students: seeing possibilities, getting excited and being empowered to go after them.”
Broman is also interested in bringing traditions from a variety of cultures into her classroom. Last year, she had two Filipino students in her classroom and incorporated their heritage into some of her lessons.
Additionally, she has studied Native American culture, history and traditions like basketry with Penny Kagigebi at Plains Art Museum in Fargo, North Dakota. This has been very valuable knowledge to share with her students, especially since there is a significant Indigenous population in Cloquet.
Cloquet’s Kimberly Broman and Mary Patton (left) were selected as Grosvenor Teacher Fellows and will circumnavigate Iceland in August. They are pictured here in their new caps, neck gaiters, waterproof backpacks and other sweet surprises they received at their pre-expedition workshop at National Geographic Headquarters in Washington, D.C., in April.
Photo courtesy of Kimberly Broman
"I JUST LOVE MY STUDENTS’ CURIOSITY" -
Kim Broman
For More Information
Broman highly encourages other teachers to apply for these fellowships. More information can be found at: nationalgeographic.org/society/education-resources/professionaldevelopment/grosvenor-teacher-fellows or fundforteachers.org.
Personal
Broman’s sons are now 24 years old. She lives in Esko and also has three cats.
In her spare time, she enjoys canoeing, kayaking, hiking, scrapbooking and photography.
“I really want to get better at photography, and particularly, storytelling through photos,” she noted.
For many years, Broman was also involved in the Boy Scouts and staffing some of their programs. Both of her boys were longtime Scouts.
Empowering students
Broman enjoys using her intellectual curiosity to help enrich her young students’ minds. The love of learning that these young children bring into the classroom every day is deeply rewarding to her.
“I just love my students’ curiosity,” she said. “As an educator, I hope I can harness that curiosity through empowering them and encouraging them to ask questions.”*
Andrea Busche is a Duluth-based freelance writer and small-business owner. She has been a frequent contributor to The Woman Today since 2008.
In 2022, Kimberly Broman had the opportunity to participate in a sailing trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands with a mixed crew of Scouts from the Iron Range. Broman (left) is pictured here with her friend in Scouting, Mara Spaeth. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Broman
Gnome Sweet Gnome
Decorative Gnome Pot
By Molly Milroy
Materials needed:
▶ Bandana or wired jute cord
▶ Faux fur
▶ Hot glue gun
▶ Hot glue gun sticks
▶ Terra cotta clay pots
▶ Plant
Embrace the whimsical charm of garden gnomes with this simple and delightful DIY project.
These decorative gnome pots will be sure to get some smiles and laughs. They can be placed in a garden, inside the home or outside on the front stoop. Each gnome plant can be uniquely customized by choosing different colors and materials. Let your creativity flourish as you create an adorable gnome family to showcase in your home.
Begin by laying out your supplies. Decide whether you’ll use a bandana or wired jute cord to decorate the top portion of the pot.
For the bandana, first fold it lengthwise, giving an inch or two wide on the fabric. Then wrap it around the pot, using hot glue for adhesive as you go.
If you don’t want to use hot glue, try fastening it by tying the ends into a knot and securing it in place. When using a jute cord instead of a bandana, wrap the cord around the top inch of the pot, applying hot glue as you go. For either the bandana or jute cord, hot glue isn’t needed on the entire piece, simply place a dab as you go along every inch or so.
Next, trim the faux fur to fit the lower portion of the pot, making sure it aligns with the bottom of the bandana or jute cord. You may also choose to cut it, so it reaches or just hangs over the bottom edge of the pot, giving the appearance of a longer beard. Before gluing it down, make sure the faux fur is facing down and not up. When ready, glue the faux fur onto the pot, placing it directly below the bandana or jute cord. Once dry, shape the beard as needed.
Attach a wooden knob nose to the faux fur, positioning it directly beneath the bandana or jute cord and securing it with hot glue. Finally, place your plant inside the pot, and voilà, your enchanting gnome plant is complete!
This cute and fun activity is easy for the entire family to make. Each member can craft their own gnome, adding personal touches with their favorite colors and pot size. Place them in your home or in your garden and enjoy some gnome fun because there’s gnome place like home! * 1 2 3 4 5 6
Korner k i d s ’
By Ali Carlson
Summer is so short and Sloane is doing her best to jam as much as possible into each day! Swimming has become an almost daily adventure :) Get out and explore the town, chances are you'll find Sloane out enjoying her day as well!
MUSEUM EXHIBITS
Educational programming. Family events. The St. Louis County Depot is a welcoming space for all. Follow us on social media or visit our website to find all there is to experience inside this wonderous building. ExperienceTheDepot.org or “St. Louis Count Depot” on Facebook & Instagram. GREAT LAKES AQUARIUM
WHIRLIGIGS PRESCHOOL
This preschool class encourages exploration and learning while promoting a deep connection to nature. These oncea-week drop-off classes are designed for the 3-to 5-year old learner. There are multiple days and times to suit your family’s schedule. For dates and registration information visit www.glaquarium.org/education.
10 admissions and roller skate rentals, birthday place settings, 1 free pass per guest and a birthday T-shirt for the birthday person for
with more options available.
Brought to you by:
IN-SEASON SQUASH spaghetti
By Kim Quinones THE WOMAN TODAY
Photos Courtesy of Kim Quinones
Roasted Spaghetti Squash
INGREDIENTS:
1 medium-sized spaghetti squash. 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat squash. Sprinkle of salt (optional).
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Wash and pat dry a medium spaghetti squash.
3. With a sharp knife, pierce squash in several spots on the outer rind and place on a microwave-safe dish. Microwave for 3-5 minutes to soften. Let cool for 5 minutes.
4. Place a dish towel under and on top of a cutting board to assist with preventing slippage while slicing the squash. Slice the squash into 1.5-inch rounds. Remove the seeds and pith from the center.
5. Place rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each side with olive oil and season with a sprinkle of salt (optional). Roast at 375 degrees for 45-50 minutes, turning over halfway through.
6. Place a squash round on a plate. With a fork, pull the squash away from the rind. This results in a mound of squash "spaghetti" in the center.
7. Top with favorite fixings to make a savory smallplate meal.
SPAGHETTI SQUASH STACKERS
Mediterranean Mix
▶ Warm spaghetti squash round topped with cannellini beans, sliced cucumber, tomato, pepperoncini, feta cheese drizzled with olive oil. Topped with sprigs of parsley.
Flavors of Mexico
▶ Warm spaghetti squash round topped with roasted red peppers and corn, black beans, sliced radish, mixed shredded cheese of your choice. Topped with lime wedges.
▶ Other savory ideas include a nod to traditional pasta with a marinara sauce or alfredo cheese sauce. Protein suggestions include sausage, chicken or diced ham.
▶ Sweet ideas include topping with butter, cooked fruit, cinnamon and maple syrup or honey.
LEFTOVER SQUASH?
▶ Extra-roasted spaghetti squash can be transformed into a dessert.
Spaghetti Squash Cake topped with Chocolate Ganache & Cherries
CAKE INGREDIENTS:
2 cups cake flour.
1 teaspoon of baking powder.
½ teaspoon of baking soda.
⅛ teaspoon of salt.
Half spaghetti squash, cooked.
1 tablespoon of water.
1 cup granulated sugar.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened.
2 large eggs.
1 teaspoon cinnamon.
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
GANACHE INGREDIENTS:
8 ounces of heavy whipping cream
8 ounces of bittersweet baking chocolate (for darker ganache, or semi-sweet for lighter ganache)
Cake Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by coating sides and bottom with butter and lining bottom with a piece of parchment paper. A 9-inch round springform cake pan was used in this preparation. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, soda and salt. Set aside.
4. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
5. In a food processor or small blender, combine the squash flesh (discard the rind), 2 tablespoons of the sugar/cinnamon mixture and a tablespoon of water. Blend until a smooth puree. Measure out one cup of the puree. If you are short, add in unsweetened applesauce or a puree of sweet potato to get to 1 cup.
6. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar/ cinnamon mixture until light and fluffy. Gently stir in vanilla extract. You can use an electric mixer or mix by hand with a wooden spoon.
7. Mix in one egg at a time just until blended.
8. Next, gently stir in the flour mixture and squash puree alternating until both are just incorporated. Do not overmix.
9. Pour thick batter into the prepared cake pan.
10. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick or knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
11. Remove from the oven and cool on a rack before pouring ganache over the top. Embellish the top with fresh cherries (pits removed).
Chocolate Ganache Directions:
1. Chop chocolate into chunks and place in a heat-proof mixing bowl. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan, heat heavy whipping cream just until it steams.
3. Pour cream over the chocolate in the bowl and wait 5 minutes before gently stirring until a thick chocolate ganache forms.
4. Pour over cooled cake. Embellish with fresh cherries (pitted).
Cake recipe adapted from an online blog “Recipe for Perfection.”
WHERE TOMORROW IS BUILT TODAY!!
Raleigh Academy & North Star Academy
SPECIALISTS
• STEAM
• AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE
• COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING
• OUTDOOR EDUCATION
• ART
• PHYSICAL EDUCATION
• MUSIC
CORE SUBJECTS
• MATH
• READING
• WRITING
• SOCIAL STUDIES
• SCIENCE
The Woman Yesterday
Amelia “Millie” Baker (1887-1915)
By Amy Carlson
Amelia “Millie” Baker was born in Minnesota in 1887. According to Vintage Duluth, she was raised by her parents, Alfred and Mary Ann Baker, on Park Point.
Baker was a promising actor and singer, studying music with local voice teacher George L. Tyler and performing in numerous shows. One of her most notable performances was singing the contralto role of Frederic in a Duluth production of Ambrose Thomas’s “Mignon” at the Lyceum Theater.
She attended Central High School but left before graduating to study music in Chicago. She then moved to New York in 1905 and joined the Weber Musical Company.
In 1907 she married Alexander Oliver Lynch, but he did not appear to support her work on the stage. In a 1908 Duluth News Tribune article, she said, “Of course, I love the stage … I hope to go back to it, although my husband is opposed to it,” adding, “Maybe I can do something to make dear old Duluth proud of me.”
According to Vintage Duluth, Baker and Lynch eventually separated or divorced, and she moved to Paris in 1909, where she studied operatic voice for several years with the Marquis de Trabadelo, a famous voice instructor.
Millie remained close with her parents, visiting her father when he died and coming to Duluth to see her widowed mother in December 1914. During her final visit, she was interviewed by the Duluth News Tribune, where she said, “You really do like my voice as much as you say? I’m so glad because I’m really very serious about it all. I want to succeed.”
She returned to New York that January, and she and Charles Williamson, with whom she was reportedly engaged to be married, booked passage to Europe on the Lusitania. She was hoping to make her debut with Paris’s Opera Comique.
Tragically, they both died when the ship was sunk off the coast of Ireland by a German U-boat on May 7, 1915. Perishing at just age 27, this talented and hardworking singer’s career aspirations were largely unfulfilled. *
Millie Baker is one of the profiles in the Gare Maritime website's article on "passengers of distinction" from the Lusitania.
Photo: Gare Maritime
